Cynthia DiBlasi

IF: Gesture

2011-07-18T18:59:00.002-07:00

Well hello there blog, it's been a while. I have replaced creative time with lots of naps these past four months, as my husband and I are expecting our first BABY! BTW, that is not my husband sketched above. The model is named "Erich" and these sketches were done yesterday in conté medium at a life drawing session. I thought they would be fitting of this week's theme, "Gesture". Enjoy!

Cactus Monday - Painting in Photoshop

2011-03-07T05:08:00.000-07:00

Painting in Photoshop. . . who would have thought? For the past few years I have been scratching on my tablet mostly in Illustrator and trying to master it, and I forgot about painting in Photoshop like I used to. I have been inspired by some of the images I've seen created in this program as of late. Very painterly and beautiful. So I thought I'd give it a try again.

Here is my creation for Cactus Monday of a blooming prickly pear. . . vector free! What do you think?

Sketchcrawl at the Talking Stick Resort and Casino

2011-01-24T18:19:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday I attended the January Sketchcrawl at a local Indian Casino in Scottsdale. Just two watercolor sketches completed. . . as I ran my mouth most of the time instead of sketching! But that's what it's all about, right?

It was nice to meet a few new crawlers, and see some familiar faces from the previous ones. I didn't do any casino sketches as it was dark in there and crowded. Above is a sketch of the grounds and another of inside the hotel lobby. Enjoy!

Sketchbook Project, page 4

2010-12-01T05:16:00.004-07:00

And the sketching continues. . . Today's sketch was a special request by my artist gal pals here in the Phoenix area. They wanted to be sketched. The inspiration for this piece was a picture I snapped on my camera phone of them tearing into a clothes rack at a cute little boutique. The shop owner came out to observe the scene and said that they looked like a bunch of piranhas devouring the clothes. Amber (far left) replied, "Gnar! Gnar! Gnar"! Ah, I love those ladies! Yes, many purchases were made, and I got me a cute frilly scarf.

Not all sketchbook pages are going to grace the blog. However, I WILL post all of them on my Facebook Fan Page. I hope that you will "Like" me so that you can see them. And who knows. . . you just might find yourself in there!

Sketchbook Project Progress

2010-11-30T05:49:00.002-07:00

I finally have begun to fill the inside pages of my little sketchbook. Here is a glimpse at one of the pages. Portraits are calling me lately, and there's going to be a bunch. I know it sounds crazy to do the cover first, but it just sort of happened that way. Since time is limited, I'm just going to go with the flow of the creative process and see where it leads. It's always more fun that way!

Cactus Monday: Nest

2010-11-29T02:31:00.000-07:00

A teeny little nest snuggled between two pricklies. This photo was taken with my camera phone, since I didn't bring my good one to a spur of the moment trip to the Desert Botanical Garden. Happy Cactus Monday!

New Facebook Fan Page!

2010-11-29T01:17:00.000-07:00

It's about time, right? Click on the image to go to my page and find out everything I am up to that may not get posted here. I hope you "Like" me!

Some Sunday night sketching

2010-11-29T01:01:00.000-07:00

Above are some sketches from tonight's drawing session. I have been really getting into these lately and could use the practice getting back to the basics in charcoal. The best part? The model is my cousin Fallon! She did an amazing job for her first time. I'm so proud! Stay tuned for more sketches like these. . . it's addictive and there are so many groups out here in Phoenix.

Sketchbook Project: The Cover

2010-11-23T05:34:00.001-07:00

Well I finally started it after a month or so of trying to figure out my take on the theme I picked. . . "Adhere to Me". I have until January 15th to have it completed and postmarked by that date. I'm going to be sketching like crazy!

Stay tuned to see how it unfolds. . . I'd like to know that myself!

Cactus Monday: Moleskine time at the Desert Botanical Garden

2010-11-21T23:49:00.002-07:00

Lunch with an artist friend always seems to end up with a drawing session or some sort of creative process at the end of the day. I love that! Annie over at Chaos in color and I, went out for some good local Mexican food and decided to jet off to the garden and we stayed until twilight. Twilight in the desert is my absolute favorite time of day to capture in art form, everything is so beautifully illuminated in amethyst hues, bouncing off of the green cacti. I love that place, can't get enough of it. Above is the sketch I did on location. Another good reason to always have my moleskine and watercolors on hand and ready to go in my purse!

Sketchcrawl 10-16-10 at the Phoenix Zoo, and the after party

2010-10-18T21:16:00.002-07:00

A day at the zoo for a sketching marathon = lotsa fun! I haven't been to the zoo since I was a kid, and had a blast. I met up with a local group I belong to called Sketchydoodle, and we all hung out and sketched together representing the Phoenix group for the worldwide SketchCrawl. Above is just a few of us crawlers.

Here are some of my watercolor sketches from the day, in order completed:

First sketch. A handsome and curious little turkey vulture preening his feathers, watching us sketchers and enjoying the attention.

Depressed rhino with his snout in the mud.

One horned gazelle basking in the sun and being a perfect still model.

Pink squawky Flamingos fluffing their feathers, establishing the pecking order.

Following the zoo was the after party, purple themed with wine and chocolate. What fun! One of the group members hosted a party at their house and hired a model, Crystal, who is a burlesque/fire/belly dancer. Those gals make for great models, with those flamboyant costumes and artful makeup. I decided to keep it simple and did an ok job. . . considering that I had a few glasses of wine! What do you think?

Cactus Monday: Desert Watercolor

2010-10-18T18:36:00.000-07:00

I did a quick piece today in my new Moleskine watercolor sketchbook, just for Cactus Monday. I never really work in watercolors, but love this new technique that I've been seeing for quick and easy portable color rendering. Not to mention, the book and supplies fit nicely in my purse, yay! It makes me want to carry my sketchbook everywhere I go, like I did when I was a kid. This is a scene from the Desert Botanical Garden, featuring that very special cactus, a Saguaro. . . a few barrel cacti, ocotillo, rocks and a mountain view. Many more watercolors to come!

IF: Transportation

2010-10-13T03:12:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist illustrating a cute little hot air balloon for this weeks theme.

This is what blogging is all about.

2010-10-11T22:55:00.000-07:00

Beautiful and talented lady Deborah Mori over at Life without Novocaine and I met for breakfast this morning while I was in her town of San Diego.

I can't even express how wonderful it was to finally meet a friend that I have been conversing with and really getting to know these past few years. We have laughed together, cried, sent packages, cheered each other on and celebrated each others' successes. It's really amazing how people all over the world can connect with like-minded others and develop meaningful friendships over the internet. She is one of those special ladies that I really admire, and have gotten to know. Deborah, it was so nice to meet you finally!

Well look what I got myself into!

2010-10-07T01:14:00.000-07:00

After what seems like a long absence from my last post, I decided to take on a big project to make up for it. Yes that's right, I signed up for the 2011 Sketchbook Project and got my sketchbook in the mail today. Excited!!! All boxes have been unpacked, furniture has been re-arranged a billion times in the new house and now I am ready to get back into my creative routine.

So what is this Sketchbook Project you ask? It is described to be like a concert tour but with sketchbooks. My little sketchbook along with thousands of others, will make it's way around the country for all to see. It will have a barcode on the back so I can track how many times it has been viewed. After the tour, it will arrive to it's permanent home at the Brooklyn Art Library in NY. Which makes me happy, because I have a good friend in Brooklyn who can check it out whenever the mood strikes. Keep an eye on her for me Bridgette!

Each sketchbook has a theme, and I chose "Adhere to Me". I'm not quite sure exactly how I will execute the theme, but you can count on things being adhered with adhesives. Maybe a cut and paste is in order of all of my archived sketch books throughout the years. Maybe some collages. Maybe a little of both. Will it tell a story? I don't know. We shall see how it evolves!

Cactus Monday: Sedona

2010-08-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

Prickly Pears and Mountain View

It's been a while, but I'm back! Life is sort of chaotic right now, as we are trying to get our new house set up in time for house visitors and still going out and enjoying the sights of Arizona. We had some friends visit from back home in Maryland, and stayed with their Mom at her house in Sedona. It was my first time there and I absolutely fell in love with it. Sedona is only about two and a half hours from where we live. A little less then a trip to Ocean City for my friends and family back East. I would trade Sedona for a weekend getaway any day for Ocean City!!!

Just look at these pictures:

Red rock trail overlooking mountain views

A cute little red biplane.

The plane sorta looked familiar, but when I saw this sign it was kinda weird. I mean. . . look at my blog header! Sedona looks exactly like it!!!

Next week we will be going to Vegas, which we have been to twice. My husband and I got married in Vegas almost 10 years ago. We thought it fitting to drive there and make a vacation of it with friends and family flying in for a 10 year vow renewal ceremony. Same place, same day! Not much art creating lately, but certainly lots of excitement.

I'll be back creating soon, don't worry!

Photo Friday: Motionless

2010-06-28T14:18:00.000-07:00

Above is a photo taken of an embellished compass that sits on the top of a lookout point in the South Mountains of Phoenix. The closest arrow in the photo points in the direction of the Superstition Mountains, and I am sure they aren't going anywhere any time soon! Hence being the theme for Motionless. There are many points of interest on the compass, I just so happened to quick capture this one. With taking 600 plus photos that day, I have to say that this one is my favorite.

Cactus Monday: Quail with a Prickly Pear

2010-06-28T03:17:00.000-07:00

A quick whimsy and loose little 4" x 6" study on balsa wood with acrylic paint and pen. I have a bunch of these cut to size, and think that they would make perfect mini paintings to keep around while in the middle of moving again. Paint has been calling me back, and that's all I want to do lately!

The inspiration for this piece is this past weekend's full moon I was admiring, and the stately little quails I often see on evening walks. The scenery and the wildlife is very different around here, and so inspiring!

Cactus Monday: Our New House

2010-06-21T05:36:00.001-07:00

We found it! And much sooner than anticipated. This house was just on the market for one day, and we snatched it right up. . . unknowingly beating another couples' bid. Can you believe that? It pretty much has everything we are looking for, except for that big Saguaro in the front yard I was really, really hoping for! But let's be realistic, those things cost some big bucks. So I'll just quick Photoshop one in from my sketchbook and dream, LOL!

We settle July 19th. So in the meantime, I'll be doing lots of sketches of yard concepts. I'm thinking desert in the front, maybe a few Palms off to the sides and in the back. The back especially needs work. We got an incredible big lot full of rocks, and I'd love to make it nice and lush. Any suggestions or recommended landscapers in the Chandler area from my fellow AZ friends would be greatly appreciated! Wow. This is exciting and intimidating taking on this big project. I'm so glad we finally found our house!

Cactus Monday: Renewal

2010-06-14T14:01:00.000-07:00

A pretty and perfect red bloom, taken at the Desert Botanical Garden.

Just the other day my Mother-in-Law told me that she misses my Cactus Monday posts. I missed two of them simply because I forgot! I have been so pre-occupied with life events and getting settled, that I completely just forgot until Monday had come and gone. Yikes!!!

Between house hunting and planning our 10 year anniversary vow renewal trip back to Vegas where my husband and I were married, my mind has been somewhere else! Well, a fresh start is what I wanted, and that's exactly what I got. Renewing our wedding vows just seems fitting at this moment, and the 10 year anniversary date just convienently happens to be coming up. I feel like as soon as we find our house, we can truly settle in. . . our new life here in Arizona. I'm looking forward to that.

A Special Request

2010-05-25T00:39:00.001-07:00

I got a beautiful card in the mail today, with a little ladybug on the front that had angel wings and a halo. Now if those weren't the two very things that my Mom loved best (ladybugs and angels), instantly I thought of her. The card said, "Sending a little guardian angel your way. . . to protect and care for you everyday. Signed, "From your Mom and Me".

And of course I knew right away who the sender was, my sweet Aunt Diane. She has been sending me out of the blue cards like this my whole life. She's a special lady I tell ya, and I bet I wouldn't even be interested in art if it wasn't for her. She was the one who fostered the budding artist in me from the very beginning, with many museum trips and art starter kits. She would gather all the newspaper clippings she could find about art, and send them to me in the mail. And she still hangs all of my artwork from various stages of my life, all over her house. I could go on and on about all the wonderful things she's done for me, and how incredibly kind she is!

So when I got this special request written in the card, "Have you ever done a painting of a ladybug? I'd love to see one!" I did just that. In honor of my Mom's memory and for my Aunt Di. The painting is on a teeny tiny canvas, 2 1/2" x 3 1/2", and will be on it's way in the mail to her in a few days!

Cactus Monday: Prickly Pear Bloom

2010-05-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went out and got myself a new Moleskine sketchbook and some new pens for sketching. I really had my eyes peeled for a watercolor Moleskine, but didn't find one. So I decided to see how it worked on the first page, a heavier stock. I also wanted to get a set of Windsor and Newton watercolors in palette form so I can easily stash them in my purse with the Moleskine along with a portable brush that is hollow to act as a water reservoir. Have you ever seen them? They are pretty cool! The only one I could find was this extremely cheap set found here. Determined to make this work, I tried it with what supplies I had. You can't tell, but the page is really wavy from the water. . . and I knew that would happen. I just had to do it anyway and get it out of my system!

Do you ever do that? Ignore the rules and try to make your idea happen anyway, and use whatever you have on hand to make it work? Well, I feel much more satisfied that I tried, I'll tell you that!

Saturday sketching with the Phoenix sketch group

2010-05-23T14:50:00.002-07:00

Charcoal and ink on chipboard

Charcoal on chipboard

Yesterday I met up with the sketch group in Phoenix at Vision Gallery for some life drawing. These two sketches are the last two 30 minute poses that I'm content with. I say content, because I still feel there's room for improvement with my sketches. Its so funny how you can get so easily out of practice if you are not continuously working in all different mediums and sketching all of the time.

I found myself bringing an array of different drawing supplies and surfaces to see what works best. Out of the different charcoals, graphite pencils and even watercolors, I wound up grabbing an ink pen not intended for drawing and found that I liked that best, go figure! I also really like the idea of a darker surface to add white highlights.

I've been hearing about using chipboard from other bloggers and YouTube demonstrations that my group organizer Annie has been posting. Having a stock-pile of that stuff for a few years intending to use it for binding books, I put it to good use for a drawing surface. I love the drama it creates with the speckled texture and light and dark charcoals and ink.

Getting back into drawing without the trusty Wacom tablet feels great! Not to mention finding a drawing group and making other creative friends in the area. I'm so glad I found my little sketch group!

IF: Early

2010-05-22T00:53:00.001-07:00

Early Birds on a Century Plant, squawkin' away very early in the morning.

So yeah, they say that the early bird gets the worm. I am surprised of just how many early birds live in Phoenix and squawk and sing and chirp and coo very early before the sun rises outside my bedroom window. Thanks early birds for waking me up hours before my alarm clock goes off! I work from home now and I like to sleep in, you know. Your songs are pretty and very different from the birds back home in Baltimore, but that is just too freakin' early guys.

The birds they sing at break of day, "Start again!" I hear them say. -Leonard Cohen

So I guess I need to become an early bird too. Are you an early bird? I've always been more of a nocturnal creature myself.

Cactus Monday: Sketchcrawl!

2010-05-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

Organ Pipe Cactus under a Mesquite tree - Conté and ink.

Garden scene with a mountain view - Ebony pencil.

Last Saturday, I attended my very first Sketchcrawl at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. Sketchcrawl is a worldwide event where artists gather from all corners of the world and join in a day of sketching and journaling, and then share their work on the online sketchcrawl forum. I encourage all of my artist friends to get on the forum, find your city and join! The next worldwide Sketchcrawl will be on Saturday, July 31st.

I have met some wonderful people and had great conversations. We also exchanged useful techniques as well as each others' supplies to try out. I can't wait to try a new method for the next Sketchcrawl and my idea of sketchbook journaling has since changed forever. I have been so busy working digitally, that I sort of forgot how it feels to get back to the basics with raw materials and get my hands dirty. Although I felt a little rusty, it felt great to be sketching again.

I found out about the Sketchcrawl through a drawing group in the Phoenix area called Sketchy Doodle, and I'm looking forward to more drawing sessions. A big thanks to my new sketch pal, Annie for being the group organizer. Pop over to her blog and say hello, and check out her art. Being an Arizona resident, I think she would have fun with the Cactus Monday group as well!

Cactus Monday: Messing with Cholla

2010-05-10T14:03:00.006-07:00

Well hello there you cute and cuddly Teddy Bear Cholla! You are so cute and plush and little and fuzzy, but I've got your number now you slick little cacti!

Above is a picture of my husband poking at this little Cholla with a stick, testing the theory that it jumps. It didn't. And of course he thinks I'm crazy because I swear a spider jumped on me once years ago as well as this particular type of cacti, most recently. We have a long running joke that just got a little funnier of awkward things jumping on me, that aren't supposed to jump in his opinion.

But as my fellow cactuteers know, Chollas DO in fact jump, (so do spiders!) and latch their little segments onto you, through your clothes and into their host's skin. OUCH!!! Just think of it like the force of a magnet near metal, once you slightly brush their little spines. Slick little devils.

I took this photo at the Desert Botanical Garden just yesterday, as well as many others. There are so many beautiful pictures I have taken from yesterday, that I have to pace myself and post just a few at a time! This botanical garden has it all. From abundant wildlife, gorgeous blooms, rolling scenic landscapes, mountains and all species of cacti. Beautiful sculptures can bee seen throughout, and a Chihuly glass installation greets you as you enter the garden. Did I ever mention that Chihuly is the sole inspiration of my glass blowing hobby?!!! Just 15 minutes from my house, I got a yearly membership. I plan on doing lots of reflecting there as well as photo shoots, plein air painting and sketching. If you can't find me, that's where I'll be! In cactus heaven.

Update: I will be at the garden this Saturday at 8am joining a sketchcrawl. And if any near-by fellow Cactuteers would like to participate, that would be sweet! I've got one free guest pass just for you.

Cactus Monday: In Bloom

2010-05-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

There are more blooms and explosions of color here in the desert than I expected, and that makes me happy. This is a wild cactus of some variety I found in South Mountain Park, with a pretty yellow flower. Upon leaving the path to get a good macro shot of this cactus, I discovered that my jeans were COVERED in tiny cactus needles up to my knees! Everything around here has thorns. Even of the grass-like variety! They have hooks on the tips that latched on my clothes and were proven tough to get out. Looking back at this incident last week, it makes me laugh. But I was a pretty grouchy girl that day, covered in pricklies! Lesson 1 learned, beware of desert brush. . . it bites!

Cactus Monday: I'm here, in Phoenix!

2010-04-26T11:06:00.001-07:00

I'm sitting here in our new empty house, borrowing my husband's sprint card to post my first Cactus Monday post as an Arizona resident! It's been a hectic couple of weeks, and we are still waiting for our stuff to arrive. I can't wait to get settled to get back into art again. I joined a local sketch group, so more than likely you all will be seeing some cacti inspired sketches for upcoming Cactus Monday posts. Can't wait!

In the middle of this moving mess I had a birthday, and my husband bought me an amazing digital SLR camera. So we quick ran out to South Mountain Park, which is a bike ride distance from the house and took some pics with it. I can't wait to figure out this camera and use it to it's fullest potential and get come cool new lenses. I'm really loving where we are living. We are at the base of the Mountains on a golf course community. You can see golf carts zipping through the cul-de-sac and an occasional beer cart. I haven't even ventured out yet to see much of the neighborhood and golf course, but I already love it!

Below are some pics I took with my new camera. Enjoy!

Cactus Monday: Tilt Shift photography in South Mountain Park - Phoenix AZ

2010-04-05T07:52:00.002-07:00

See the cacti in there? Trust me, this picture is riddled with Saguaros! Just click on it for a close up view. Above is a picture of my husband (on the left) and his co-worker overlooking Phoenix from the mountain top. This was taken on the relocation trip the company arranged for us.

So what is Tilt Shift photography? "Tilt-Shift miniature faking is a creative technique whereby a photograph of a life-size location or object is manipulated to give an optical illusion of a photograph of a miniature scale model."

I have been wanting to try this for a while, and this is my first attempt. It's sorta there, but I think it can be better achieved. I just googled "how to do Tilt Shift photography" and went all Photoshop ninja on this image! In addition to the instructions I found, I dodged and burned, blurred and sharpened, adjusted hues and saturation, variations, levels and curves. It was fun, and I'm looking forward to doing more!

Happy Cactus Monday fellow cactuteers!

Photo Friday: Pleasure

2010-03-26T04:37:00.000-07:00

Running out for a plein air painting session with my best friend on a beautiful day always makes for the most pleasant days!

IF: Expired

2010-03-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Recycle those old expired energy burning household items and make way for the new!

In celebrating the upcoming Earth Day and the fact that I get to keep my job with CBS Radio Baltimore when I move, I'm posting the cover I illustrated for their annual Eye on Green publication. Yay work!!! Work is always good. In fact, I'm going to see what else I can get into when I get settled in Phoenix. We move April 21st!

But back on the topic of being green, my husband and I are big advocates. We started out small, but it's kinda grown on us throughout the years. We have managed to upgrade mostly all of our appliances to new energy star models. Compact Fluorescent light bulbs are in every room in the house. We recycle everything from all recyclable trash items & car fluids (oil, brake & transmission fluids) to old electronics, batteries and donating our old stuff to goodwill. We even have a built-in water filtration system that was easy to install, and carry reusable aluminum water bottles around. And the reusable grocery totes. . . I don't do that yet, but it's next on the list. Wow. . . it sounds like we do a lot, but it really doesn't feel like it! It's easy once you get into the habit.

Cactus Monday: "Rushin' Around"

2010-03-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

Last night I was up late working on a project for one of the radio stations I do work for. I was given 4 days to design a van wrap (YIKES!!!), and the illustration above is sort of similar to the design I submitted today. I want to keep the real design under "wraps", (har har!) until the production is complete. With all that is going on, I'm trying to best utilize my time so I can do all of the things I want to do/need to do and still get to submit a post for Cactus Monday. Please keep in mind that this is super thrown together.

This concept made me think of two things.

1. I'll just use my existing art and create a cactus van!
2. Wouldn't it be super cool to have my little Rav 4 wrapped in my very own design with illustrations?!!!

How cool would that be? Of course, you would be able to spot me miles away in every direction, and that could be good and bad. I would have to be less of a lead foot driving around with a shameless self promotion vehicle to avoid getting mean emails since it will be plastered on it. Unfortunately, I always seem to be in a big hurry kinda like I am today! Also, I wonder how a vinyl car wrap would withstand a blistering Arizona summer. Just some random thoughts!

IF: Brave

2010-03-05T08:05:00.003-07:00

Brave. I'm mustering up every ounce of it to leave the place where I grew up on the East Coast, where most of my family and friends are. Here's to new adventures, new opportunities and lots-a sunshine!

Photo Friday: Cleanliness

2010-03-04T22:33:00.008-07:00

Smell that? That's the smell of clean Arizona air with a clear blue sky. So yeah. . . I can't get enough of all things Arizona lately and I have to admit, I'm running out of photos! This was taken at South Mountain Park, right outside of Phoenix.

I don't want to work. . . I just want to scratch on the tablet all day!

2010-03-02T12:18:00.003-07:00

And wish Dr. Seuss a Happy Birthday. In honor of him I'm serving up some green eggs and ham, Seuss style! Dr. Seuss certainly sparked my imagination as a child, and still does to this day with his insightful and playful view of the world through a child-like adult perspective. I believe a successful childrens' book illustrator must never forget their child-like brand new view of the big wide world, yet apply a certain wisdom gained through life experiences. And who could do that better then Dr. Seuss?

Cactus Monday: "And the moving process begins!"

2010-03-01T18:08:00.001-07:00

After a fortunate short time, we now have a contract on our house in Maryland. Which means we have a moving date! The closing date is April 20th, so we will probably head out to our new home in Phoenix Arizona right after on the 21'st. I'm kind of relieved, kind of nervous, happy and sad all at the same time. Ultimately, I know it will be a grand life adventure that will refresh my artistic spirit with all of the beautiful sights and experiences to enjoy.

I haven't been blogging and doing art as much as I like, and just drawing this simple box with the state of Arizona on it made me so happy. For now, all of my time first and foremost goes to my family and friends and spending as much quality time with them as I can before we leave. Half of my studio is packed, with much more packing yet to do and we have a lot of work ahead of us. I can't wait to get settled and explore all the wonders to be seen out there!

Cactus Monday: Phoenix or Baltimore?

2010-02-08T16:47:00.002-07:00

This is a picture of a saguaro cactus in the south mountains I took in Phoenix not even a month ago. A beautiful and warm sunny day it was. I remember I wore a short sleeve shirt and got a little bit of a suntan from a scenic light hike through some trails.

And this is a picture taken just yesterday in Maryland in front of our house. We got give or take 30 inches of snow on the ground with my husband shown digging us out. I bet you can just imagine how all of the roads are out there from the looks of our driveway. Everyone is pretty much snowbound. We are expected to get 10 to 20 MORE inches according to weather.com from another snow storm tomorrow and Wednesday. I do have to say, that this is the most snowfall we have seen for one year in quite some time.

So this leads me to the question. Phoenix or Baltimore. . . Where would you rather live? Could those Arizona summers really be all that brutal?

Cactus Monday: "The Trip"

2010-01-17T22:00:00.002-07:00

They're not all stickers.

I am completely in love with the landscaping in Phoenix. This is one of the houses we looked at.

A beautiful grand Saguaro in front of this house we also looked at. Later we found out that to obtain one of these costs a few grand, and special papers are needed to prove that it was obtained legally since they take 75 or so years to even develop a second limb. Doh!

A view of the city of Phoenix from South Mountains.

Saguaros were everywhere. . . so beautiful!

The base of the South Mountains. Hey, is that a coyote? Probably just a lost little dog.

The trip was amazing. . . especially the weather, the houses were beautiful, and the surroundings were so inspiring. I have the smell of sage burned into my memory visiting a house decorated with beautiful unique southwestern art, and it made me want to get back into pottery and get my hands muddy. The galleries in Scottsdale look so inviting and I can't wait to just submerge myself into the art world and get lost there. Now all we are waiting for is to sell our house in Maryland!

Photo Friday: Bed Time

2010-01-07T23:44:00.000-07:00

A quaint little view of the Bed & Breakfast I stayed in called Halcyon Place, in upstate New York near the Finger Lakes.

The problem with making jewelry. . .

2010-01-07T15:12:00.003-07:00

. . . is that I always want to keep it after I finish! Last night I made this pretty fresh water pearl and fluorite necklace along with a matching bracelet with intentions to replenish my Etsy shop. I'm going to have to make another set!

I also made this little cactus, who I named "Butters". The moment I finished him I took a good look at the overall finished product, and that's who he reminds me of. I plan on making a series of little potted cacti, with different themes. Kinda on a cactus kick lately!

If anybody has any special requests or ideas of silly things I can make just for fun, let me know. Especially fellow Cactus Monday cactuteers! Any medium I'll do. Although, who knows how long it will take, since I started to pack up my studio. But I'll try!

*Etsy shop is currently empty. I might leave it down until we get settled in AZ. . . hope that is not too long from now!

Cactus Monday: Howlin' at the Moon

2010-01-04T15:45:00.004-07:00

This is a repeat illustration from back in March, but I have been sick with a cold and trying to pack on top of that and get rid of things to get our house ready to sell. I thought it appropriate to eventually re-post this particular illustration for Cactus Monday, because back in March is when we first thought about moving to Phoenix, Arizona. Click here to read the original post.

The company my husband works for closed it's once headquarters here in Columbia MD, and he has been working from home now for a few months. Now the option is relocate, or find another job. This silly little dream of packing up our stuff and moving cross country is now a reality!!! In my mind, I can clearly see the beautiful Arizona landscape illuminated by the twilight sky and brilliant stars, sitting at the fire pit alongside our pool, sippin' on some wine. And maybe hearing a random howl or yip somewhere out there in the distance.

Photo Friday: Best of 2009 - My Top 3

2009-12-29T03:14:00.000-07:00

Cactus Monday: Bonneville or Bust!

2009-12-28T17:58:00.004-07:00

So there will be no more frequent vacationing "Down thee Oshin" for us as most Marylanders would say. I have a feeling that our new vacation spot will be drag racing on the salt flats. Yay adventure! So it's a further drive than the ocean currently, but there will be lots of sun and ummm, salt!

A silly, totally irrational idea.

2009-12-28T14:56:00.004-07:00

Just the other day I had a little bit of a freak out. . . about moving to Arizona and knowing absolutely no one. When out of nowhere the next day, a relative on the Carlile side of my family just sort of manifested and said hello on Facebook. And she lives in Scottsdale, just minutes from where we will be moving! All things related to Arizona have been freaky serendipitous, I tell ya. Everything in the universe is telling me to go. Now I have known family there!

So, thinking of my Grandfather James Carlile, sparked an idea. I don't remember much of him, but one of the most prominent memories is that he used to have a little 4 seater plane and flew it recklessly cross country. I don't remember him ever being loaded with money, yet he still owned a plane. So why can't I, right? See where this is going? And my Aunt, (his daughter) knows a lady who is a flight instructor who could help me get my pilot's license, ackkkk! Why I could visit home more often than I thought! Silly, I know. It's fun to dream.

Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree. . .

2009-12-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Hey wait, you're not a Christmas tree! Reality is sinking in, and the adventure in it all is becoming all too real. My Husband accepted the new job offer in Phoenix and has until January 31st to back out. I told my best friend yesterday of the news, and I made her cry. This is so hard!!!

I hope you all find time this Holiday season to savor the moments with your loved ones, and have yourself a Merry little Christmas. I know I will be doing just that.

Deborah Mori's Holiday village craft party extravaganza!

2009-12-21T13:41:00.003-07:00

Deborah Mori over at Life Without Novacaine posted a fun holiday blog challenge that involved transforming a chunk of wood into a cute little house to be part of a Christmas village. Immediately I salivated at the thought of dusting off my chisels and going to town carving away like a happy little woodchuck. So, two weeks go by in a flash (cause you know it's the busiest time of the year) and my block o' wood is still sitting on my desk staring at me in it's original state. Determined to wrap up all impending projects, last night I went to town digging out all possible papers, objects and crafts in my stockpile to decorate it with. And Ta-DA! Just like that, it's all finished. And I forgot to take a before picture. And it looks like a tornado hit my studio. But it was so much fun! Click here to see Deborah's posted originals.

Materials used: Gesso, pressed papers and decorative papers, rusty metal, synthetic hydrangea petal, buffalo snow, Modge Podge and glitter. What do you think?

Deborah lives in warm San Diego where I'm sure it never snows so I thought I'd give her some snowy love from Baltimore. We just got about two feet here over the weekend! And that's not the only thing we got. . .

We got some news that is going to drastically change our life. After being all shooken up after the scare of my Husband's job here in Baltimore ending after 12 years, he was presented with a new one in Phoenix AZ just today. And a much better one. A promotion and a raise, and a decent relocation package. All things are looking a-go for a move to Arizona. We fly out in January to seal the deal and go look at houses. WOW. Life can change, just like that. And I just feel it in my bones that this is going to be a good change, and a much needed change. But I will miss my friends and family so very much here in Baltimore.

People re-locate all the time, yet it feels so strange to me. I've lived here all my life. But I've always, always wanted to move and discover new places. Have any of you ever had to re-locate far enough where car trips were just too far to go back home and visit? If so, how did it all work out for you? Any advice sure would help, and be much appreciated!

IF: Undone

2009-12-18T15:21:00.002-07:00

The first thing that comes to mind when I think of the theme word "undone", is how so many people just spaz out of their gourds around this time of year. This could be due to a number of things. One, the change of season as it gets colder and drearier outside. Two, lack of sunshine. And three, the madness of the holidays and all of their demands. Perhaps they are missing someone with whom they shared special holiday memories with, so that would make four. Five, being affected by job layoffs. And the list goes on. Occasionally, "said" person might come undone and throw a temper tantrum and act like a two year old. Hey, it happens to the best of us! We are only human after all. So here's my remedy for this, if you care to know. . . take a time out.

Our minds can really get out of control, and the best way to handle this is to stop yourself before the problem escalates, take a step back and take a good look at yourself at how ridiculous you are acting. . . go sit in a comfortable chair in the corner and think about what you have done. Then breathe.

This isn't a yoga exercise, so don't get caught up in sitting in the Vajra posture as illustrated above, unless it is comfortable and easy for you to do. And don't get caught up in props such as candles or anything of the like. This is a simple breathing meditation. Find a quiet space. Sit up straight comfortable in a chair, hands cupped on your lap, right hand overlapping your left and thumbs pressed together. Get comfortable and RELAX head to toe and then forget about if you are doing this right. Focus on your breathing. For about 20 rounds or so, imagine breathing in white purifying light, and exhaling all of your negative thoughts in the form of black smoke. Then just keep your mind still, thinking about nothing for about 15 or 20 minutes.

It's not easy, but the more you subdue your thoughts, particularly delusional thoughts, the more relaxed, recharged and refreshed and clear headed you will feel after. This practice has certainly gotten me through some tough times. As the Holiday Season draws near, I hope you all are able to relax and enjoy the festivities and wonderment of it all.

IMT & Cactus Monday: Handmade Gift

2009-12-17T22:37:00.002-07:00

I put googly eyes on my cactus's because. . . I think they are dangerous. You never know where you stand with them unless you can look em' in the eyes, right?

Yes, this little felt cacti is inspired by the Christopher Walken SNL skit "Googly Eyes Gardner". He is going to make a nice desk ornament for someone special. He doesn't bite though, he's a little softie.

And here's a little tip for you that I share with experience. Never talk with your hands while at someone's house who has a cactus in reach. Ouch!

A beautiful gift from beautiful Diana Evans!

2009-12-10T15:19:00.001-07:00

A day in Paris. . . the most romantic city in the world.

Diana painted this custom watercolor of my husband and I in her favorite place, Paris. . . after being chosen as a winner of her custom watercolor monthly give-aways. I can't express how incredibly touched I was when this package came in the mail, and I got all teary-eyed. What a treasured and special piece of art this is, and the likeness is incredible! We will cherish it always, and display it framed and matted in a prominent place in our home. Thank you so much Diana!

Please be sure to visit my talented friend Diana Evans at her blog, and prepare to be inspired!

IF: Entangled

2009-11-27T20:04:00.001-07:00

An entangled hot mess of x-mas lights! Tis' the season to get into the spirit and start decorating for the holidays.

Photo Friday: From my past

2009-11-27T14:31:00.001-07:00

A contact sheet from photography class in 1995.

"What you need to know about the past is that no matter what has happened, it has all worked together to bring you to this very moment. And this is the moment you can choose to make everything new. Right now."

Photo Friday: Three

2009-11-12T22:10:00.003-07:00

A random shot of people walking by, watching the sunset.

Photo of Times Square in New York, for my friend Diana

2009-11-06T19:41:00.001-07:00

Ok, so when we meet up Diana, we should do the touristy thing and ride one of these things down the street! As long as it's not too cold. :) Mmmmm, maybe some hot choclate at Serendipity too!

Photo Friday: Softness

2009-11-06T19:20:00.002-07:00

This was tough challenge to resist soft fuzzy pet pictures. So here is a pair of soft frilly orchids instead.

Photo Friday: Well Groomed

2009-10-30T07:40:00.000-07:00

Above is a very unusual creature at the annual Maryland Renaissance festival that my cousin Allison and I found. He was so bizarre and so into his character, that I just couldn't pass up the opportunity and ask to get a picture, and make Allison stand next to him, hee hee!

IF: Fast

2009-10-29T02:57:00.003-07:00

Never come to my house and leave your food unattended, not even for a second. . . I'm just warning ya ahead of time. Boris the cat is lurking around and he'll snatch your hamburger up and gobble it before you can blink!

And the more this seems to happen the funnier it gets, because you think we would learn our lesson after the gazillionth time. My poor brother-in-law. He is always bringing fast food over the house, and Boris has stolen it so many times. And it's not just fast food he is after, he'll eat anything that's not cat food. He'll even eat the wrapper it came in. I have never in my life had a cat with an appetite quite like my Boris kitty. I did find him outside and rescued him as a big kitten, and something makes me think that he was adopted by a pack of scavenging wild raccoons! Despite his voracious appetite, he is quite the loving affectionate little snuggle bug. So I guess we'll keep him. :)

Inspire me Thursday: Mademoiselle Caroline Rivière

2009-10-24T17:55:00.005-07:00

This week's IMT prompt is inspired by the French Neoclassical artist Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres' portrait of Mademoiselle Caroline, currently residing in the Louvre. The task is to create a piece of art using the Mademoiselle Caroline Rivière image provided on the IMT site.

Curious of the history of this piece, I Wiki'ed. And the critics, naturally, were all over it.

In 2003, the art critic Jonathan Jones remarked of the painting:
The sexuality Ingres usually reserved for harem fantasies slips over into the real and respectable world in this charged portrait. His obviously intense visual relationship with his subject and his contentment to look, with a clinical waxy fetishism, at Mademoiselle Rivière's full lips, bared neck, long gloves and spectacularly serpentine boa, lend this picture drama."

A couple of things crossed my mind.
1. I would have never saw that.
2. How dare he view that poor young innocent girl as a piece of meat!
3. What artist doesn't have an intense visual relationship with their subject?!!!
4. Elongated neck. Hmmm. I'm really loving the work of Lori Earley. Maybe I'll transform her in a similar style, exaggerating the artist's work with his critic's delusional comment.
5. (After beginning the photoshopping) Naaaa, changed my mind. I'll just adjust the colors, add some depth in shadows and highlights, and correct some of the bits that bother me. Hence the background I changed into a fancy boudoir and her slightly played-up makeup.

So that is my take!

Photo Friday: Autumn

2009-10-23T12:07:00.000-07:00

Autumn makes me think of Halloween, and the carved pumpkin display my friend puts on every year that I never miss.

Blooming Blog Award

2009-10-22T12:39:00.004-07:00

Deborah Mori over at Life Without Novacaine surprised me the other day with this amazing little reward. . . thank you, I am so honored! Deborah herself has inspired me endlessly, since the very beginnings of my blog. Her life is like an open book, and she invites her readers to experience it with her through her fresh perspective and inspiring quotes. Her illustrations are so whimsy and beautiful. I love visiting and reading all of her posts and joining along in her journey. Thank YOU Deborah, for inspiring me!

The rules upon accepting this award:

1.) Only one rule. Pass this award along to someone who motivated you, inspired you or enriched your artistic life with their creative gift. If you feel so inclined, you can create a short list of the things you love, your favorite muse, or your favorite childhood memories. The most important thing though is to award someone who has made your life better.

There are so many inspiring blogs out there, and if I wanted to, I could go on and on about all of the blogs I have come across that are so awe-inspiring. Keeping this award sacred, I only chose 2.

Two very important people who have supported me throughout it all, cheering on my accomplishments and checking on me when I haven't been posting. Their artwork is amazing, and just as beautiful as the person that they are. They have supported and encouraged my Etsy shop. They have sent me their creations in the mail, that I will forever cherish. They are very dear true-blue blogger friends. And blogging would not be the same without them!

1. Deborah Mori
Yes, she awarded me this blooming blog award, and I am ritefully awarding it right back!

2. Diana Evans

Perhaps the sweetest blogger around, and most productive! Diana always continues to inspire me with her beautiful creations and artistic energy. She is a faithful blogger friend who is always present, encouraging me along every step of the way.

Thank you both for making my life better.

Inspire me Thursday: Wings

2009-10-20T20:42:00.005-07:00

This is my angel, Carol.

Carol and I were gifted something very special by a mutual friend of ours, who all of the sudden was struck with the most beautiful genius idea.

But first, before I tell you about the gift, let me give you a little background. Carol is no stranger to great loss, and neither am I. We didn't fall to pieces completely, or at least we didn't stay there and wallow in our sadness. Instead, we picked ourselves up, and changed our minds about the way we would deal. And we both have a deeper appreciation for life because of it. We tend not to take things so seriously, to be extra silly about life in general. To never let anyone steal our sunshine metaphorically speaking. But from time to time, we forget. It's easy.

So this mutual friend of ours, "Bridgette", wanted to commission me to do a painting. A gift for Carol who lost her Dad, knowing that I could sympathize. It was to be of a painting of a butterfly (special to her and her Dad) with "Dado" worked into the design. She contacted me right before I was about to leave for a trip overseas. And coincidentally, Bridgette lives in New York City, and I happened to have a connecting flight at JFK with a very long layover. We thought, PERFECT! We could catch up on everything and talk about this painting and have a few drinks! Well. . . my flight was delayed hour by hour until finally they canceled it due to bad weather. So there Bridgette sat. . . ALL day long at JFK all by herself getting toasted, probably falling off the bar stool and apparently dancing on some trashcans or something, that silly girl. When the idea struck her.

When I came back from my trip, a care package came in the mail with two cards, and a beautiful butterfly magnet. Two separate packages were sent, one for Carol and one for myself with identical things inside. I should add that Carol and I did not know each other, never met. The first card read:

Miracles are everywhere. . .
. . .simply awaiting that moment when we slow down, take a deep breath, and open, really open, our eyes.

Dear Cindy and Carol,

I am sending you both the same card all the way through. The magnet is symbolic of Dado and Mom, (our parents). I had commissioned Cindy to do a butterfly portrait incorporating "Dado" into the wing design. But when I contacted Cindy to arrange the details, she was beginning a journey that involved crossed roads and missed encounters. It was in some ways a quirky sort of miracle that manifested angels. You see: each of you to me shares a resonance with each other in your yearning. You both have a wisdom that comes of grief and knowing you both live a legacy of the poignancy of loss, that honors the parent you accompanied on the journey away. There are no words enough to explain this. Only know I have assigned you as angels to each other and remain unknown and yet majestic, elusive yet inspiring as like butterflies of the spirit you are.

Love,
Bridgette

The second card was a musical card that played Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's "Somewhere over the Rainbow", and the butterfly magnet nested neatly inside. It just worked, and that song will always be extra special to both Carol and I. And we cried and cried with surprise and joy at the thought of this magnificent gift we were given. Can you imagine getting a package in the mail like that? That girl Bridgette is a genius I'm telling you!

So right away, Carol and I became friends on Facebook and chat with each other just about every day. There have been lots of emails, talking about our parents and life in general. We feel completely comfortable just opening up and bearing our soul. We just clicked. Instant friendship, like we've known each other forever. We were completely humbled at the thought of this beautiful gift, and treat it so. We are each other's angels. To protect, guide, inspire, offer support and keep our minds light and happy. To be a shoulder to cry on when we're not. Thank you Carol, for being just that. And thank you Bridgette, for the incredible gift!

IF: Frozen

2009-10-19T19:44:00.002-07:00

Above is an illustration that I have done for work that convienently fits this week's Illustration Friday theme! Honestly, I did this illustration last year, but tweaked it a bit. It is going to be on 101.9 Lite FM's website for the holidays and on a sky banner in Arundel Mills mall in Maryland. I imagine easy listening light music would go great with figure skating. What do you think?

Photo Friday: is in the details

2009-10-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

Happiness is in the details.

A Robert Genn Letter: A list of mistakes

2009-10-12T21:08:00.029-07:00

I'm sitting here at my computer illustrating a horse for an equestrian project and this Genn letter popped up in my inbox caught my attention. I've been subscribing to Robert Genn's letters for years but lately have been neglecting to read most of them. This is probably due to the fact that I haven't been painting, but oh is it calling me back. At the moment, I'm doing a study of a J.W. Waterhouse to get warmed up for the next round. I have never done a study outside of class, and I have to say it has been very rewarding. It's fun to experience how one of your favorite artist mixes and applies color and to follow their brush strokes. I think it will require one more sitting and then I will post!

But why this truly caught my attention was thinking of all the variables that go through my head while painting. Or maybe it was because he said "I'm on your question like a fat kid is on a Smartie", hee hee! But really, painting is unlike any other medium I work with. Sometimes I see the image in the brush strokes and it just works. The painting takes on a life of it's own. Sometimes it's a well thought out plan. I tend to want to work very tight, following a strict recipe and standards. Sometimes the painting wants to be loose and I have to break all of my programed rules and simplify, maybe to see what I can learn from it and where it can go. Creation by the manner of reduction as Robert said. There really are no rules, nor should there be, unless you are just learning to paint.

And so this leads me to the question, if you are still reading! Are you a recipe taker, or a recipe fighter?

Robert Genn's letter:

Dear Cindy,

This morning, Michael Epp of Bowen Island, B.C., wrote: "'Just take away everything that doesn't look like a horse.' That's what the sculptors say. Which implies that as long as you avoid all the obvious mistakes, you'll end up with something good. By definition, perfection is merely an absence of error. Is there a list of mistakes for artists to avoid making?"

Thanks, Michael. Your note caught my attention because it had some wonderful assumptions. The horse concept is a vital one because it stresses creation by reduction, in other words the removal of material. This removal does not imply mistakes, but rather the vacuum created to disclose the horse in question. The other three prime suspects in your note are the words "good," "perfection," and "error." In the art game, all are subjective and mighty arbitrary. Nevertheless, I'm on your question like a fat kid on a Smartie.

Don't assume there is only one way. Don't assume that mistakes are a bad thing. Don't think for one minute that everyone agrees with what "good" is. Don't fall into the trap of thinking perfection is attainable or even desirable. Don't assume the existence of error. Art is not based on a catechism.

Art is something else. It is, for better or for worse, the bending of personal will. And while some artists may attempt standards such as academic standards, commercial standards or intellectual standards, there will always be significant creators who don't give a hoot about standards at all.

The main thing you need to think about is process. Your process. Individual decisions cannot be taken from some list. They are the result of your previous moves, including your errors. They are also the result of your noted winnings. This is how you-as-a-person becomes you-as-an-artist.

Funnily, in youth, we are often rigid. We tend to think there is some secret, some Holy Grail that will have great art appear on our easels. We may even dream that fame and fortune will arise from this correctness. As we grow older, we realize just how limiting were our earlier conceptions. Art is something else. Art is fluid, transmutable, open ended, never complete, and never perfect. Art is an event.

Best regards,

Robert

PS: "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." (Scott Adams)

Esoterica: There are two kinds of students--recipe takers and recipe fighters. The former listen to the instructor, try to get it "right," and often succeed in doing so. The latter strike out on their own, pay the price of rugged individualism, and fail often. In art, it's all about failure. In art, the journey outshines the destination. In art, mistakes are golden.

Photo Friday: Dawn

2009-10-09T12:37:00.006-07:00

The White House

The president awoke today receiving news that he had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Unlike his predecessors as CNN stated, he was selected for his "vision" and inspiring "hope" in much degenerate times. This is the "dawn" of his call to action.

CNN: Obama accepts Nobel as 'call to action' President Obama said today he was "surprised and deeply humbled" to win the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. "I do not view it as a recognition of my own accomplishments. But rather as an affirmation of American leadership. I will accept this award as a call to action."

It's hard to believe I was just at the White House yesterday, on my very first tour ever. My brother-in-law is a secret service agent at the White House, and has been coaxing us for years to come on a tour. I worked in DC for 2 years, just a mile and a half away, and never went.

Last month, my husband's favorite hockey team visited the White House, to be honored by the president for winning the Stanley Cup. We got to shake some hands, get pictures and autographs, but never got to go inside. The whole experience of meeting the team, even the great Mario Lemieux, seemed so unimportant as the history that surrounded me. I could post pictures, but the experience was not moving at all. The team did not seem happy to see their devoted fans dressed in jerseys with sharpies in hand waiting for them. Anticipating to meet the president, they in their best suits looking like the millionaires they are, remained polite and did as requested of them. Especially Mr. Lemieux, he took his time with everybody.

What was moving, was seeing the old sculptures along the way to the White House, of a time passed. An old America with powdered wigged leaders on horseback thrusting swords. Smells of the fragrant roses in the Kennedy garden, brought thoughts of his legacy of a not too distant past. And the paintings, the incredible artwork documenting the history of the nation. That I didn't get to see until yesterday. I had to go back. The White House was alive with the spirit of all that has come to pass through the magic of the artists that created them, capturing the souls of their subject. No photograph can replicate that.

Now is the time of great change coming to fruitation. A leader in office who represents the kind of change that old America so desperately needed, full of positive hopes and aspirations. I think the very idea of him and what he represents during times like these, a world faced with economic crisis, nuclear weapons and terror threats is the kind of charge we need to set things right. So many people are already upset about his winning the Nobel prize so soon. I can understand why, but I can also understand why it was given. People are so quick to jump on the criticism bandwagon, and others are so plyable to listen and believe every word without searching their souls to believe it to be true. I respect anyone who takes on the weight of the world and tries to change it for the better. Not many people are so ready and willing to do that. I wish for him to achive all the of the greatness, respect and admiration of his Nobel Peace Prize predessers. How neat it is to be alive during this time in history to experience this.

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." -Gandhi

Photo Friday: Fast Food

2009-10-01T21:13:00.004-07:00

Miso Soup

I have pictures of your typical artery clogging fast food, and I've made a burger and fries and a chic-fil-a sandwich out of polymer clay. Enough of that! It's so rediculously bad for you. Here is a picture of a very healthy soup that is quick to make called Miso soup, popular in Japanese cuisine. This soup is a staple of the Macrobiotic diet, and I've been making it often for lunch.

The biggest challenge was finding some of the key ingredients. All ingredients have been found at a local natural organic market, right in the same section. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

A few pieces of Wakame (packaged and dried seaweed, follow re-hydrating instructions)
2 tbs. Miso Paste
splash of Mirin to taste (rice wine)
Optional Dashi Grandules for added stock flavor (I omit, since it has fish in it)
4 cups filtered water
silken tofu cubes, diced small
1/2 small onion, chopped
handful of diced carrots
handful of diced celery
handful of snow peas
diced spring onions for garnish

Directions:

1. Soak wakame in fresh water until soft. Set aside.

2. Bring water to a boil in saucepan. Add onion, carrots and celery, simmer for 7-10 minutes. Add snow peas for the last minute of cooking. I like to keep veggies slightly crisp in this soup.

3. Remove a few tablespoons of broth from the pot and mix well with miso paste. Turn off the heat under the pot, and mix the miso in with soup.

4. Cover the pot and let the soup sit for a few minutes to activate the enzymes in the miso. Make sure the stove is turned off at this point because too much heat will destroy the enzymes.

5. Remove the wakame from the soaking water. Chop up into small pieces and add to the soup.

6. Sprinkle with diced spring onions when ready to serve.

Another M logo - The Nightstand

2009-10-01T20:20:00.005-07:00

The nightstand is a little section on the Mix site with one featured book. I used my own nightstand for inspiration. The only thing different is the lamp base. I though it should be simple and less ornate than my current lamp, to emphasize more attention on the book.

So what's on your nightstand? I'm currently reading the Golden Compass series a friend recommended. So far so good! Nothing like a good fiction.

New & improved Miss Information illo

2009-10-01T14:23:00.005-07:00

"Our local girl without a clue needs your help!
Whether it’s finding that little black dress,
cooking a delicious meal for her boyfriend,
taking her trendy out-of-town friend to the hottest club,
or finding the perfect spa retreat,
Miss Information needs your suggestions and fast!"

Here is one of the projects I've done for Mix Magazine, a virtual magazine for one of the local radio stations I work for. It will be featured in the next issue. I needed to re-vamp her character to fit her personality, as she is constantly worried about all sorts of superficial things. Relax Miss Info! If you just go with the flow, you'll be a much happier chica. And if the boyfriend doesn't like the dinner, he can cook next time, right?

(click on the image for details.)

Today's little gift

2009-09-30T12:24:00.001-07:00

If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change.

-Buddha

A random sketch of a flower my wandering stylus drew last night. A random quote I found by accident today that coinsides with some past thoughts. And the gerber daisy on my desk that inspired the sketch was given by just the right friend with just the right intention. Just the perfect little miracle I needed today.

Niether my mind or my illustrating hand can focus today. Hmmmph.

2009-09-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

Still life with a Bella

2009-09-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

Have you ever set up some still life and got all revved up to paint. . . step out of the studio for like 10 seconds. . . come back and someone tampered with it? Bella the cat thought I needed a little something on the right to balance things out. She has a good eye for composition, don't ya think?

Photo Friday: The Face

2009-09-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

How cute is this face? Clearly this is one happy horse, just look at that smile!

IF: Infinite

2009-09-24T21:54:00.001-07:00

Infinite wardrobe options! (And infinite Christines!) Oh how wonderful it would be if I could just sit here and illustrate my entire wardrobe. Sigh. I could keep going and going if I had the time. So the above illustration is a borrowed character from last week. . . my friend Christine. I figure if I'm on a roll placing her as the main character in almost all of my art, I might as well make her "Miss Information", the character I was asked to illustrate for work. She's going to be featured in a woman's magazine for a popular adult contemporary radio station here in Baltimore. Now which outfit will they choose. . . we shall see!

IF: Welcome - Welcome to Baltimore Hon!

2009-09-17T21:28:00.002-07:00

Sorry, I couldn't resist! Inspired by the John Waters' film "Hairspray" that took place in Baltimore. The character above is modeled after my friend Christine, who got to be an extra in the movie when she was a kid, along with her sisters. How cool is that?

Photo Friday: Plants

2009-09-17T21:17:00.005-07:00

This is an easy prompt! So many to choose from.

Photo Friday: Fear

2009-09-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

Fear the pink finger puppet monster!

Photo Friday: Urban Landscape

2009-09-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

A view of Manhattan from Central Park.

IF: Magnified - Take Two

2009-08-31T10:44:00.001-07:00

I decided to redo my little magnified amoebas, here is take two!

IF: Magnified

2009-08-31T06:20:00.005-07:00

All of the different microorganisms with all of their different personalities coexisting in the primordial soup of life. Anyways. . . that was the first thing I thought of for this prompt, as goofy as it is.

Photo Friday: Seaside

2009-08-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

Beautiful seaside walk around the island Garrafon in Mexico

Inspire me Thursday: Pear

2009-08-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

A simple little still life pear. Acrylic on canvas.

Monday Artday: Moon

2009-08-23T21:21:00.000-07:00

A mixed media piece inspired by the classic Paper Moon song. Oil on canvas, paper, cardboard and sharpie. Composed in Photoshop with a few effects.

Photo Friday: School

2009-08-22T11:56:00.006-07:00

I want to go back! Picture taken at a pottery class I attended at Baltimore Clayworks. This turned into a favorite coffee mug.

Something to ponder

2009-08-20T21:09:00.002-07:00

Billy Collins, reads his poem "Some Days" with animation by Julian Grey of Headgear.

IF: Wrapped

2009-08-16T12:03:00.002-07:00

Some wrapped sushi rolls. Never been much of a fan, but I think it's always presented nicely!

Photo Friday: Cameraphone Shot

2009-08-11T17:46:00.002-07:00

Pretty view of Baltimore's Inner Harbor at twilight and the USS Constellation Ship.

Sharing some pics from my trip to the lake district in England.

2009-08-11T14:46:00.002-07:00

I've been missing on here for a bit, so I thought I'd share some pictures with you from my little get away trip to England. Just a few random finds along the way. Enjoy!

Public Service Announcement

2009-06-30T08:16:00.010-07:00

Cancer. Every day there are more and more findings of it's causes. And yet, more and more of our loved ones or ourselves are suffering from it. I got this URL in my inbox today, "Carcinogen Found in KFC's New Grilled Chicken". Well, yeah! Traces of it are found in over-grilled charred meats. Did you know that? One more reason I am happy to be a vegetarian again.

I recently lost both of my parents to lung cancer. The funny thing is, they have been divorced and far apart from each other for about 20 years. Both were smokers, and smoked different kinds of cigarettes. My grandmother, and my great grandfather is and was a smoker, and both have lived very long lives. I'm sure there were less toxins like plastics and cigarette additives around when they were younger, as well.

Years ago before I was born, my parents lived in Sparrows Point, MD along with my Aunt and Uncle and their significant others in the same neighborhood. I don't know about the significant others, but all had lung cancer, and only my Uncle survived it. I believe that he is the only one who doesn't smoke. All of them would now be in their 50's.

The Sparrows Point area is the number one disease cluster in the State of Maryland (asthma, leukemia, cancer, birth defects, miscarriages, developmental disorders) and the 26th worst disease cluster in the United States (reference: Center for Disease Control and Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene). This has originally been linked to when Bethlehem Steel began mass production in that area years and years ago. I would not be surprised if this was the number 1 cause of the development of their cancer some 30 years later. I can't help but to obsess about it, and all of the other little things that may have further induced it. Environment, CIGARETTES, genetics, diet, medications, poor health and well being, sun exposure, cooking methods: Teflon pans, microwaving plastics, char-grilled meats and the list goes on. I don't know about you, but I'm ready to start a macrobiotic diet!

Am I paranoid? Absolutely! Cancer runs rampid in my family and is on the rise, and I am determined not to get it. I've seen cancer at it's uglyest, and I don't ever want to experience it. I am not pushing anyone to change their lifstyle, I just want to share my findings and help you become more aware or remind you of it's causes so that you can make the decision for yourself. I still cook all of my husbands favorites for him, because I have for 13 years now and it makes him happy. This is his choice. I always try to prepare foods as healthy as possible, and leave the unhealthy indulgences in moderation. Such as most of those polymer clay treats I've been making. ;-)

Another thing that I have discovered is that Cancer Treatment Centers of America is very misleading. They advertise that there is hope even when your oncologist gives up on you. I tried to get my Mom in there, and she had a cap on her health insurance, as do most people. Cancer patients can easily exceed insurance allowances, as treatment is rediciously expensive. The only way they would accept her is if we put $100,000.00 payment down. Who has that kind of money to toss around? I could go on and on about how angry I am with all the little nuances of health care and insurance, but it's not going to bring my parents back.

Just be mindful people, of all the things out there that cause cancer. Prevention is best. Just because the FDA approves food and medications, doesn't mean it can't harm you. And cancer treatment can do some serious damage to your body as well. We only have one body, and once damage is done, it greatly depletes the quality of our lives.

I feel a little better now that I got that off my chest, and I hope you found this information to be helpful. You will probably never hear me rant like this on my blog again!

Dad is GREAT! Gives us the CHOCOLATE CAKE!

2009-06-21T18:31:00.004-07:00

I did it! I finally finished making one slice of chocolate cake with a strawberry on top as per requested. And I had the chocolate cake song in my head just about the whole production time. And how fitting. . . just in time for Father's day! Happy Father's Day to all of you Dads out there.

So who remembers the chocolate cake song? Just about everyone my age knows it when I make reference to it. It's from an old Bill Cosby stand-up probably from the 70's, and I honestly haven't seen it since I was little. . . until now when I found the YouTube. Wanna see? If you skip to 7 minutes into the video, that's where the song is. Enjoy!

Oh! And here's a trio of cinnabuns. I'm going to post some new stuff in my Etsy shop soon, promise. And two more chocolate cakes are near completion, same design as the first.

Who wants some printzels?

2009-06-16T11:06:00.002-07:00

Today is my Step-Dad's birthday, so I thought I'd whip up a batch of his favorites - "Printzels". Years and years ago, he asked me to pass him a bag of "printzels", and since then they have always been lovingly called that. He is such an awesome Step-Dad, and I'm so glad to have him in my life.

Printzels are made of polymer clay with magnet affixed on back and exactly the same size of the mini's but of the extra dark special variety. (Ooops I mixed the clay too dark.) Extra dark specials are my favorites anyway, yum!

How adorable are these guys?

2009-06-16T10:10:00.007-07:00

They have just sort of "morphed" into their own little studio organism world together and their characters talk to each other!

I have always had a soft spot in my heart for spacey creative types who spend too much time with their head in the clouds. So endearing. I think if my husband was an artist and shared my studio space, I'd have to be drunk all of the time too! :D

Love their artwork.

IF: Craving

2009-06-11T13:28:00.007-07:00

I'm craving some quality time with my best friend. Vacationing at Dewey Beach, and having a Venus Flytrap martini at our favorite hang-out spot. C'mon girlie. . . what are we waiting for?!!!

Per request, here is the recipe:

1 oz Lime Juice
1oz Melon Liqueur
2 oz Tequila
1 oz Triple Sec

Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a MARTINI glass. Yes, it's more of a Margarita, but this is how it is presented, garnished with a slice of star fruit. I'm always one for breaking rules. And besides, everything is yummier in a martini glass!

More polymer yummies!

2009-06-06T16:54:00.005-07:00

1 Pound of Bacon on a plate

Crispy Chicken Sammich with Bacon

I made these for my husband (just of the polymer variety since it's so un-healthy!) as a gift for his birthday. Two of his favorite things. . . a whole pound of bacon and chicken sammich with bacon. And bacon wrapped bacon. . . but I had to draw the line somewhere!

Good stuff, much needed change, new opportunities and a few surprises. Life is good, but I miss creating!

2009-06-06T12:41:00.021-07:00

Yikes! It has been just about 2 months since my last post!!! Lots of things have been going on. . . good things, crazy things, more clients. . . so all is good! More work and less play gives Cindy less to blog about. I am just going to give you a little taste of what I've been up to.

Here are the good things:
I have been painting like crazy! WALLS, not canvases. We are getting our house ready to sell, so we can move out further west and have acres of land, peace and quiet and privacy. With both me and the hubby working mostly from home, it will be perfect. We didn't think it would be possible to house hunt at this time but we figured out how to make it work and for the better. Getting a house ready to sell is some serious work! I am in the process of packing up half of my stuff, and getting rid of old crap that is junking up the house. We are renovating the bathrooms, some kitchen stuff and painting all of my colorful walls neutral. Most of my free time has been dedicated to this!!! Well, this among other very cool things. :) No, I'm not pregnant.

One of the houses I fell in love with.
Loooong wooded driveway with 2 acres of land. We shall see!

The crazy things:
If I were a superstitious person, this would totally boggle my mind. A few weeks ago, I had about 300 of these guys hatch in my studio. How you ask? My dear friend Dawn gave me a gift of dried hydrangea clippings from her garden, and one single praying Mantis egg case hidden nicely inside.

Meet Killer, my studio Mantis.

He was the last one that I found in my studio. Apparently there was a teeny tiny spider living in the corner up by the ceiling, and he found it. I let him live in my Lemon Verbena plant on my desk for a day, because I thought he was cute. I found information on the web on how to keep them as pets, but I couldn't stand the idea of feeding him live insects, so out he went! It would have been neat to watch him grow. You should have seen the mess I made in my studio to find them all, round them up and send them on their way outside. I hope all of my babies survived the heavy downfalls of rain we've been having!

More clients!
Here is my latest client, Marcy Max, creator of "Mitt-Minders". This is going to be a fun project, and I'm really looking forward to it. I always love supporting up and coming entrepreneurs, and I wish Marcey the best of luck and success! Click on this link to watch a WBAL news clip of her pitching her product.

And if you are interested in buying some Mitt-Minders, visit her Etsy Shop!

IF: Talisman - Money Cat

2009-04-09T07:44:00.004-07:00

Who doesn't love this cute little talisman money cat? Otherwise known as Maneki Neko "Beconing Cat" being a symbol of prosperity, fortune in business and general good luck. He is convienently saved at 1024 x 768 to download as a wallpaper freebie, just for you! I was inspired to illustrate money cat from two figurines that were given to me by my Dad, and my very best friend. May he bring you inexhaustable good fortune!

Daily Art Stop: Transformation

2009-03-19T20:53:00.004-07:00

I have the perfect image that I dug out of the archives for this theme! Above is a book cover design that I did for my old job, called: Transformation - Fellowships in Early Childhood Education. One of the co-authors of the book absolutely loved the color turquoise, and when I illustrated butterflies for the theme in her favorite color she was thrilled. Ever see a turquoise monarch? Now you have!

Junk food polymer clay magnets!

2009-03-19T12:05:00.010-07:00

Cheeseburger and French Fries anyone?

Krispy Kreme doughnuts?

I made these polymer clay magnets for some upcoming birthday presents. My brother-in-law has an unhealthy obsession with fast food, particularly cheeseburgers and fries. I thought it would be cute to make him a cheeseburger, then fries and then I thought. . . I should make some Krispy Kremes for my father-in-law! He has an equally guilty pleasure for those guys. So hopefully they won't check my blog before their birthday party on Saturday. Cheeseburger and doughnuts are roughly the size of a quarter.

Anyone have any special requests to see in my Etsy shop? I'll make whatever you want, either in clay or felt with no obligation to buy. . . because I just can't stop making stuff!

Miss Diana Evans is next on my list for felted cupcakes.

IF: Legendary

2009-03-16T21:03:00.003-07:00

The Beatles. The most legendary band of all time. And when I hear them, I think of my Dad and how much he loved them. We used to play their records and sing their songs together. . . particularly "Yellow Submarine". I remember the first time I saw the cartoon I was absolutely memorized and confused at the same time and I loved it! If it wasn't for my Dad, I don't think I would be the music enthusiast that I am today.

April 16th will be 2 years since he passed away at the young age of 58 from cancer. My favorite way to remember him is to listen to the Beatles. I can almost hear him singing to me.

A year ago, I posted another entry of a sketch I did in his memory of portholes. My Dad was a very skilled carpenter and participated in the construction of the new Dolphin Wing at the Baltimore Aquarium. Particularly the portholes, which he constructed on his own and was very proud of them. My husband asked me if that's why I decided to do an illustration of the Beatles looking out submarine portholes. It must have been completely subliminal!

Maybe this year I'll visit the aquarium again and sketch them from the inside.

What the Font?!!!

2009-03-15T09:55:00.005-07:00

I just found this nifty application for my iPhone and think it's the neatest thing! Basically, you take a snapshot of some text with your phone, crop, upload, and in seconds it will provide a list of the closest family of fonts to choose from. It doesn't always work well, as a good snapshot is needed to produce good results. There is also a website to upload pics of fonts, check it out!

A little gem I want to share with my blogger friends.

2009-03-05T19:45:00.010-07:00

I've had this beautiful little magazine sitting on my desk for a little over a month now. I've skimmed through the pretty pages, and just today I sat down to read it, cover to cover. It was absolutely inspiring!

Come January 2009, I was determined to accomplish a list of goals I had set for myself. The biggest one being the creation of my website. I went off to the local bookstore for software books since web design is kinda new to me. And that is where I picked up this magazine. So now that my website is complete, (take a look and tell me what you think! www.cynthiadiblasi.com) I decided to read this magazine for some inspiration on polishing up the ole blog.

The stories were so intimate and inviting, and the pictures were inspiring and beautiful. I've photographed a few pages for you to see:

The Feathered Nest: Dawn Edmonson
I love the name of this blog, the jar faeries, the little blue birds adorned with signs, and all of the imagery shown in this spread. Dawn writes about her love of sharing new ideas with her fellow bloggers, passing the knowledge, and the joy it brings her. She's won my heart!

Dudadaze: Diane Duda
Ah Dudadaze. She says that she decided to become an artist at the ripe old age of 41! Her illustrations are so adorable, and it certanly looks like she's been doing this all of her life! I say she's got some mad skills.

Marie Antoinette Birthday Soiree: Joy Jones
Celebrating all things Marie Antoinette. And Joy is throwing a party upon another magazine release! Here are the details Joy has written:

"In celebrating the magazine release, I've decided to theme my party “Celebrating Marie”. The party will last for 1 week (April 1 - 7) with a different Marie post each day. I’ll also have several give-aways during the week, lots of fun history and facts about Marie’s life and lots of sparkling glamour too!

So mark your calendars dear friends! You are invited to come and celebrate your inner-Queen as we also celebrate the beautiful Queen of France, Marie Antoinette!"

Sounds like fun!

There were other great things featured in the magazine, such as a group of 9 ladies getting together from all over the country who have conversed through their blogs for a year or so. It sounds like they had an absolutely amazing time.

I highly recomend this magazine to you all, and I hope you find it as inspiring as I have.

Happy blogging!

IF: Breezy

2009-03-02T22:08:00.001-07:00

Right now in Maryland there is 6" of snow on the ground where I live, but soon enough the snow will melt, and the cherry blossoms will be in bloom. I can't wait to get out and take my camera to the National Cherry Blossom Festival in DC, and be surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom petals blowing in the spring breeze.