Wonderful Birthday

I just celebrated my 50th birthday party, OMG, did I really just write that number down. I am ready to let go of my expectations of what life should or would be and embrace this life with all it's glory.

My artistic journey is a series of successes and failures. Disillusionment and disappointment has thrown me into turmoil for several months at a time. I questioned everything regarding my creative life, while being completely unaware that I was making a difference in the lives of others. This struggle opened the door for some very special people in my life to come forward with priceless encouragement .

With this birthday I gave myself the gift of art without expectations, premission for imperfection, art without obligation, art without a destination. To be an artist not seeking approval or acceptance.

I still aspire to sell my artwork, teach classes and maybe even someday write a book. However, the joy of just creating and giving gifts to my friends and family is priceless. With that said, here is a picture of a beautiful, amazing doll that I received from my sister. This priceless birthday gift will be a constant reminder of my artist journey.

xxx

susan

p.s. the lettering is my own font.

Free Motion Stitching Class

I signed up for this really cool Free Motion Stitching class with Cynthia Shaffer

and Jenny Doh. This is week one and I'm sharing pictures of my sewing machine.

I purchased a Janome DC 4030 last year, this machine is so easy to use! More importantly, it's pretty. Yes, it's pretty! I have a lot to learn about sewing and what better way to learn than playing with art projects.

I recently participated in my first Free Motion Quilting class at a local fabric/quilting store.

But this online class with Cynthia is all about playing with your sewing machine,

some of my practice sheets look like I'm scribbling with my sewing machine, LOVE IT!

Hearts for Winter

You have to love February because of Valentine's Day

With all the snow and cold weather we all could use a few heart warming

words from someone special.

"I Love You"

"Be Mine"

"Your My True Love"

There is nothing greater than loving someone and being loved.

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

I used my Fanciful Outline Alphabet stamps on canvas,

fabric ink, FW ink, rubber stamps, and fabric scraps,

etc.

New Fabric Hearts

February is fast approaching and one of my favorite

holidays, Valentine's day

will be here.

I loved getting all those Valentine cards in school

of course who doesn't like to receive candy and flowers,

or any type of Valentine present.

So, I was inspired to make some fabric hearts

using my Fanciful Outline Alphabet stamps.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Amazing People

These are the most amazing people in my life. they add an artistic flair to everything they do, wear, and say. We had another snow storm last week that drop a total on 6 inches of snow. The majority of snow fell on Wednesday night and Thursday. clearing to sunny skies on Friday. So of course school was cancelled once again, and we were all stuck at home! Frankly, we're all suffering from a serious case of cabin fever because of

all the snow this winter. So, like any good mother I kicked everyone out of the house including myself, to go clean off our drive and sidewalk. As a result of expending some pent up energy, and breathing in some fresh air our attitudes improved and I got some great pictures.

Birthday Card

I made this birthday card for my friend, hope she likes it:)

Big Year

Welcome to 2011

I have a big year ahead of me

My husband and I will celebrate a big birthday

My twins boys will graduate from high school

My daughter's last year in middle school

BIG, BIG, BIG

So, come along for the ride.

I share things I have learned and artwork I have created

I hope you are inspired, enlighten, or maybe amused.

Here is to us all and 2011

☀☀☀☀☀