Just Off The Easel...

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Some Tasty Tid Bits...

Did you know that Manna from Heaven, spoke of in the Book of Exodus, was a lot like mushrooms but tasted like honey wafers?  Now that is Love!
I painted a few mushrooms on rocks. Yes I did say rocks. Well they turned out cute & will most likely become a gift. I think I should just paint me a garden because of my big purple thumb. haha I had so much fun painting the mushrooms that I had to paint some on paper. 
Here's another Tasty Tid Bit... my favorite mushroom bread recipe.  A friend served this years ago and I begged for the recipe.  I think I will make this for Easter.  Just click on the picture for the recipe. Thanks to BeanTown Baker for sharing the photo & recipe!

The Empress...

...no it's not me! haha It's an eclectic little shop up the hill from me in Placerville. The Empress is definitely the lovely Carolina Smith, shop owner of 11 years. Her wonderful shop, located at 582 Main Street, is full of unique clothing and whimsical items. Her shop has a style of it's own, the best way to describe it is a little bit steampunk, pirate, gypsy, victorian, mermaid, saloon girl! So me right!?! Whatever it may be, it's a wonderful collection of her handmade upcycled redesigned fashion creations and is truly a reflection of her beautiful spirit. I am thrilled that she is selling some of my cards & art in her shop. We have much in common and I hope that our friendship will grow. She makes me want to put my brushes down and pull out my sewing machines. I'm like the guy in that commercial that is fighting with himself for a cigarette! hahah I have way too much on my plate right now to create another project for myself but Carolina does inspire me. Maybe one day soon...

A few Saturdays ago I wandered the Farmer's Market across the street from her shop before she opened. I bought some huge organic blueberries from Oregon and took them to the Cosmic Cafe next door to eat with a hot soy latte. I sat in a chair so close to the door it was almost on the sidewalk. I people watched and eavesdropped on a few interesting conversations. Honestly I can't remember the last time I spent a few relaxing hours out all by myself.

Carolina must love coming to work each morning. When she opened her shop it was full of the aroma of fresh coffee wafting in from next door, her collection of incense, and the old old building smell. I'd love to wake to that each day! We spent the morning in her magical shop with my camera. It was so fun.

If you would like a one of a kind portrait to be transformed into a beautiful mermaid, a pirate mermaid, a mermaid princess.... all I need is a photo. It's truly a unique gift! Email me for details or click on the mermaid above!

"A Shot In The DarK"

Was That Fun?!
Making this video kept me busy & my mind off of some bad news I received for a time today. I will as promised post my blog award from Sharkbytes & pass it on, as well as some Shout Outs to some lovely people that featured my art in their Etsy Treasuries in upcoming posts.

Way Out!

I stepped outside the box, way out! Popped the lid off of it! I received an email from Tangent Gallery a few days ago requesting submissions for the Neo-Fantasy/Sci Fi Exhibition for March 10th. I couldn't resist creating this mixed media piece of an Alien and Winged Alien Cat like companion. Maybe the creature should have a name? I'll take suggestions. It was so fun painting this. I was in the Twilight Zone! I submitted it so we'll see what happens. Whether it's accepted or not I can't wait to see this show!"The Clearing"