Down and Dirty

I'm Moving House

2010-10-04T12:18:00.000-05:00

Well, ladies and gents, I am moving my blog. I'm setting up shop at Kisses & Chaos (aka AlliWoodsFrederick.blogspot.com) I sincerely hope you'll come by and check it out. I really wanted to move away from this vision and create something new. It's time to move on and let Down & Dirty Designs go the way of the dodo. Down & Dirty Designs is staying open on etsy for the time being, but once it's closed I will still have a presence there via Fizzy Pop Vintage, which is currently under construction. I will have a new website up and running insanely soon...keep checking Kisses & Chaos for updates.

While I have enjoyed Down & Dirty Designs, I feel the need to move away from the limitations it has created for itself (and me!) and branch out...Le Coeur Rouge will now be filling the void left by Down & Dirty...it's more expansive...photography, illustration, collage, prints, postcards...you get the idea. I also want to focus on my freelance career. I just need to shake my life up a bit and what better way to do so than to make a fresh start.

Thanks for all your support over the years. You've all been aces! I hope to see you over at my new digs. Take care and I'll see you soon.

Kisses & Chaos,

Alli Woods Frederick

Long Time No See

2010-02-18T10:39:00.003-06:00

I know I have been away for ages, but working a full time job
while planning a wedding and conducting my day to day business
has proven to be WAY more hectic than I could have possibly imagined!
The wedding is in a mere 8 days and, needless to say, I'm insanely excited.
I'm going to try to get back on the blogging ball upon our return.
Once I get our photos back I will post a few of them. X my heart.
Many of our accessories and decorations
were bought from some wonderful etsy artists...the rest I created myself. Did the diy quadruple
my workload? Yes. Was it worth it? Totally.
I have to dash, but stay tuned...I'll be back in March with photos, link and, hopefully, some
great stories...
kisses & chaos!

Insanely Hectic

2009-09-07T08:15:00.003-05:00

So things have been positively INSANE around here lately.
For those of you who aren't aware, I'm getting married!
I'm incredibly excited and incredibly busy trying to get everything
planned. I never understood why people would hire a wedding planner, but now I totally get it. It's fun but absolutely exhausting...everytime you think you're done making decisions another one pops up! So please hang in there...I know I'm not posting as much as I should (or would like to, for that matter), but I will do my best to keep you all abreast of the lastest happenings.
Next week I'll try to post some links to some of the absolutely
fantastic wedding goodies that I've found over the past two months...
they are truly drool worthy.
Till then...
xxx

My First Interview & a Free Gift

2009-07-15T12:51:00.004-05:00

So I've just finished my first interview and I must say I rather enjoyed it. I'm July's featured artist on Dreadful Musings. If you get a chance stop by and give it a read. And here's a little treat for those of you that visit Dreadful Musings: Read the interview, buy one of my standard, square format, or collage prints, answer the following question and get a free gift! It doesn't get much easier than that...

QUESTION: How do I resemble Charles Bronson when I'm angry?

Convo me (via Down & Dirty Desings on etsy) with the answer when you make your purchase. The first 10 customers that answer correctly will receive an extra little goody with their purchase. I give you free things because I love you. Oh, yes I do.

x Alli x

Love Letters or World Domination?

2009-07-14T13:42:00.004-05:00

I have new postcards available for sale at Down & Dirty Designs. Use them to disseminate your plans for global domination or, if your tastes run more towards the romantic, a love letter to your sweetheart. Shipping on these little beauties is free within the US.

Madame de Pompadour's Passionate Affair Fine Art Postcard

Color Me Crazy Contest Winner

2009-07-11T09:29:00.003-05:00

Well, ladies and gents, the results of the coloring contest are in.

The winner is Crysti R. with her entry titled

"Dreaming in a Dark Oasis."

Congratulations, Crysti and thank you for your participation and creativity!

You're aces in my book!

I've Not Forgotten

2009-07-10T07:58:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the delay in announcing the contest winner. I've been delayed by work, but I promise I will post an announcement this evening. X my heart! Thank you for your patience.

xxx

Scattered

2009-06-12T12:37:00.004-05:00

I must admit, my dears, that I'm feeling rather scattered as of late. Things have been askew since last September when I, having decided that I did not want to subject myself nor my darling feline companion, Mischa, to the hellacious heat and misery that was to follow in the wake of Hurricane Ike, decided to evacuate while the getting was good. Rather than return to Houston where the failing economy was causing problems for my massage therapy practice, I decided to head towards the Ozarks where my loving family lives. I do not regret the decision by any means. I have met some wonderful people, made some new friends and met my amazing fiance. I am, however, finding the job market absolutely impossible to navigate. Having to give up my practice and career and start anew (Arkansas doesn't offer reciprocity for my massage license ~grumble grumble~) is frustrating enough, but when jobs are hard to come by it becomes quite maddening. I'm sure some of you out there are in (or know someone who is in) a similar situation. I know it drives you up a wall, but it's times like these that it is most important to be thankful for what you have and pay less attention to that which you lack. Though I am not normally a list maker, I think today it would be a nice idea for me to count my blessings.

I am thankful for:

1)my awesome and supportive family

2)my loving fiance who never fails to make me laugh like a woman possessed.

3)my feline partner in crime, Mischa…he has nothing but love to give and he gives it freely…we could all learn a lesson or two from him.

4)the beauty of nature…there is the loveliest thunderstorm right now…a perfect summer rain…nature always calms my nerves.

5)my health

6)life's mysteries…it is rare that a day goes by where I don't find myself at least mildly surprised by some little odd cog in the universal machine.

7)my hair. What can I say…I love it…I'm a natural redhead with natural curls to boot…it was the bane of my existence as a child, but as an adult I adore it and its unruly, rebellious ways.

Now it's your turn…what are you thankful for today?

Wishing you a fantastic weekend,

Xxx

Ps: don't forget to enter the "Color Me Crazy" Coloring Contest for your chance to win a free print courtesy of Down & Dirty Designs and Le Coeur Rouge Photography.

Gals with Gas Masks and So Much More

2009-06-11T13:24:00.006-05:00

I know I haven't been posting much of my original work lately, but I have been a bit distracted. I got engaged this past Saturday and have been dealing with all it entails, so please forgive me. I have, however, just listed some of my previously unavailable pieces for sale in my etsy shop, Down & Dirty Designs. Below lies a little sample…I will, however, be adding more pieces throughout the day, so feel free to check back to see what eye candy has been added. I hope you have an absolutely outstanding Thursday!

xxx

ps- don't forget to enter the "Color Me Crazy" Coloring Contest! The deadline's getting closer! There's a small flickr widget with samples of the prizes in the sidebar...feel free to take a gander!

Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade
downanddirty.etsy.com

Trivia Tuesday

2009-06-09T16:02:00.002-05:00

It was on this day in 1870 that Charles Dickens passed away at his home in Kent, England. I just thought you might like to know. For those of you who have never read Dickens I would like to recommend "Bleak House." It's completely brilliant. Have a smashing evening.

xxx

Photo Friday

2009-06-06T08:15:00.009-05:00

I know, I know…it's Saturday, not Friday.

Sorry.

What can I say…it was a busy day yesterday.

On a completely unrelated note, I just thought I'd let you know that I despise looking for things…any and all manner of things…looking for work, looking for that (evidently magical and now invisible) tube of lipstick that you know you put in your bag, matching socks, apartments, the roll of film from your last holiday that really needs to be developed…they all drive me completely bonkers. (Can you tell what I've been doing this morning?)But I digress…

Without further ado, please allow me to present to you, photo Friday.

(and don't forget to enter the "Color Me Crazy" coloring contest!)

Have an absolutely glorious weekend. Try not to get into too much trouble.

xxx

"Paris, France - The great lady's confectioner"
by: YannPendaries.etsy.com

"Old Town"
by: AliciaBock.etsy.com "everything that was good"
by: AliciaBock.etsy.com

"The Red Windmill"
by: jerseymaids.etsy.com

Color Me Crazy Coloring Contest Now Open!

2009-06-03T09:44:00.009-05:00

Alrighty, ladies and gents, it's time to flex your creative muscles!
Down & Dirty Design's "Color Me Crazy" coloring contest
is officially open.
How does it work?
Well here are the instructions:
1)save the image to your computer
2)print it
3)decorate the daylights out of it
4)email your submission to:
downanddirtydesigns at gmail dot com

It's that easy!
I'll post the submissions here for everyone to enjoy.
The winner will be notified via email and will then get to select the
Le Coeur Rouge Photography/Down & Dirty Designs
print of their choice.
So get those creative juices flowing and let's see what
crazy, awesome, stunning, funny works of
brilliance you create!
If this goes well, there will be more coloring contests in the future.
This contest will end July 3, 2009.
All the boring rules are below the coloring sheet.
Please make sure to read them.
Enjoy!
xxx
rules:
*limit 2 entries per person.
*1 prize will be awarded. prize is one photographic print not to exceed 8x10" in size
*winner will be chosen by a panel of 3 judges (myself, a swell fella by the name of Brian and a complete goofball by the name of Chris).
*contest is open to everyone, everywhere...I doubt this will be the case, but should any taxes be due at customs they are the sole responsibility of the winner.
*you may use whatever medium (digital included) you choose in your entry, so go nuts!
*please keep it clean...i am all for freedom of expression, but since people of all ages can view this blog I have to ask that there by no pornography or graphic violence depicted in your submission. Entries that do not follow this guideline will not be considered for judging.
*Contest ends July 3, 2009.
*The winner will be announced no later than July 10, 2009.
*please email submissions or any questions you have to downanddirtydesigns at gmail dot com
*now here's the most important rule of all:
HAVE FUN!!!

ps- prize options can now be seen here!

F-stop Magazine Feature

2009-06-01T10:17:00.003-05:00

Well, ladies and gents, I am pleased as punch to announce that two
of my photos ("girl with horse" and "jack's") are currently featured in the
group exhibit of F-stop Magazine's issue #35.
Woohoo!
I would love it if you stopped by and took a peek
at all the talented artists' amazing photos.
I am indeed quite pleased.
*insert little happy dance here*

Contest Announcement (that means FREE STUFF!)

2009-05-29T09:12:00.003-05:00

Who among us does not love to get
something (preferably something good) for nothing?
Not a one of us.
We all love it.
With the economy showing few signs of improving,
free has become one of my favorite words.
I'm guessing it's one of yours as well...
it is with that in mind that I will be hosting
a coloring contest.
Next week I will be posting an image for you to download,
print and decorate in whatever way you see fit.
Then all you need to do is email me your gorgeous/flamboyant/bizarre
work of awesomeness.
What do you get in return, you ask?
Well all the entries will be posted here for the world to see
(so let's try to keep the content appropriate for the under 18 crowd, shall we)
and one lucky winner will win a free photo
from Down & Dirty Designs.
Its that simple!
So get your crayons, glitter glue and sequins ready
and stay tuned!
I'll be back next week to post the complete details and
coloring sheet.
Have a smashing weekend, one and all!
xxx

Another Letter

2009-05-19T08:04:00.003-05:00

Dear Mr. President, Members of the House and Senate,

I will NOT pay taxes on my health insurance. I buy my own
and it already costs an arm and a
leg. You want to ration health care services and
eliminate flex spending. You suck.
I work hard for my money and I want to keep it.
There are other solutions to this problem.
I will not live in a socialist country.
Socialism doesn't work...sad but true...
so knock it the hell off.
You are making me sad and angry...and sad and angry
constituents are bad to have in your line of work...
sad constituents mean you get fired.
Just a little something to chew on this morning.
So please take your new health care proposal and kindly
shove it.
Thanking you in advance,
me
xxx

A Letter

2009-05-16T10:51:00.003-05:00

Dear Jackass,
You called me at 4:10 am. You blocked your caller ID.
It took me forever to fall asleep last night.
You suck.
I don't know who you are, but
I will find you
and
I will call you
incessantly.
Have a nice day.
Sincerely,
Me

A Beautiful Way to Start the Day

2009-05-15T08:53:00.004-05:00

So this morning a news story was brought to my
attention. It's pretty amazing and has a
wonderful ending...
and a little note to those people out there who
think animals don't have emotions or souls:
I challenge you to watch this video
and tell me it's a case of
anthropomorphic fallacy.
Go on...I dare you.

Dog Saves Mother - NY City - 04-14-09 - The best home videos are here
Now get out there and enjoy your day,
you beautiful people, you.
xxx

Such a Naughty Little Slacker Am I...

2009-05-14T14:34:00.003-05:00

I know I've not been posting much as of late.
No excuses really.
I just haven't been feeling all that inspired.
I did, however, take a quick jaunt
down to Houston last weekend
and took OODLES of pictures.
Would you like to see some?
Assuming that your response was "Yes! But of course!"
I shall now present to you
a few of my favorites.
Enjoy.
First stop:
The 59 Diner
I have never, in all my days, seen a more appropriate sign...

Next Up:
The Orange Show
(for those of you unfamiliar with The Orange Show, please follow the above link)

And Finally:
The Art Car Museum

till next time.
hope you all have a smashing day!
xxx

Tim Burton Thursday

2009-04-30T09:14:00.006-05:00

Am I the only person that is super duper excited
about Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland?"
Last year, upon hearing the it was in
production, I could hardly contain myself...
and now that it's in post we're being treated to
tasty little bits of dark, delicious
burton-y goodness.
Hip-hip-hooray!
The cast seems interesting enough...although Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter
come as little surprise, I can't wait to see Crispin Glover as the Knave of Hearts and
Christopher Lee as the Jabberwock...
If lists of names aren't enough to whet your whistle, then please allow me to
present you with some visual delights...
Here's a little sample for you
to savor:

not much, but better than nothing...
until next time...
xxx

What A Lovely Day

2009-04-29T13:37:00.007-05:00

I just thought I'd share my latest piece with everyone.
It was originally intended for the now canceled
"Postcards from Dystopia"
group show at Art Raw Gallery...
but since that exhibit has gone the way of the
dodo I figured I would just post it here
for you all to enjoy.
I may make a limited run of prints available in my shop
Down & Dirty Designs,
but I have yet to decide...but rest assured I'll
be sure to let you know what I decide.

"a day in the park"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

have a smashing day!
xxx

A Little Lesson in Avarice

2009-04-23T11:35:00.004-05:00

This animated short is too brilliant not
to share.
A special thanks to
bisectedbeauty.etsy.com
for bringing this bit of awesomeness
to my attention.

xxx

Looky What I Found!!!

2009-04-22T11:54:00.003-05:00

So I was taking a gander at the Altered Space Gallery's website
and, in doing so, found an
artist that I am
now gaga over.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you
Michele Mikesell.
enjoy!

"Kevin from San Francisco"

"The Riddle"

"The Willow Wren and the Bear"

"Thumbling's Travels"

"Peter, Tuscaloosa"

xxx

One Tea Party, Hold the Crumpets

2009-04-17T08:42:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday, everyone!
I'm working a charity ghost hunt with the paranormal investigatory
team I belong to (RVPRI) this evening, but before I
run off to get ready I want to
post some pics I took
at Tuesday's local
tea party.
It was interesting.
A lot of people turned out...and I was able to pop off
a few halfway decent shots.
I'm also throwing in two shots of
a great little office building I found tucked away on
a small side street on the way home.
Oh, and before I forget, I came across a great website/flickr group/art project
a few weeks ago.
It's called the Scribble Project and it's the cat's pajamas!
The creators post "scribble sheets"
that you download, doodle on and then
submit to the project...completely simple
and completely brilliant.
To find out more info you can visit their website:
The Scribble Project Club
To see examples of what other scribblers
have submitted you can take a gander
at their flickr group or at their
original blog.
Ok.
blah blah blah.
Shutting up now.
Have a fantastic weekend!
xxx

Monday Morning Inspiration

2009-04-13T10:47:00.003-05:00

After a lovely weekend filled with warm fuzzies,
rainy skies & and an ass-kicking game of
trivial pursuit I thought it would be nice to let some of the yumminess
of this past weekend spill over to this drizzly Monday morning.
With that in mind I give you some
little snippits of beauty and inspiration that I've encountered.
Enjoy.

taken from We heart it

I'm So Very Sorry

2009-04-03T10:58:00.005-05:00

I'm so very sorry I've been away so long.
My immune system seems to have mounted
a full blown revolt against me.
Between endless bouts of some serious
strep throat, round upon round of
antibiotics, the flu, stitches and sinus infections
I've been a bit of a mess.
I have decided to suspend my participation in
Project 365.
All the illness has set me sooooooooo far behind that catching up would
be a massive undertaking. I might start over on my birthday...or I might wait until next year...I have yet to decide.
I will, however, continue to post my photos and other creations
on as regular a basis as possible.
That being said:

Here's a new piece I've been working on...

"Madame de Pompadour's Passionate Affair" will be available for purchase in my shop ( http://downanddirty.etsy.com ) by next Friday (the 10th)...
numbered limited edition of 50...

Yeah, She's Got Mad Skills...

2009-03-13T08:41:00.005-05:00

I've had the pleasure of meeting an insane amount of talented artists and crafters
via the wonderful world of Etsy (and two of its fabulous street teams Etsy Steam Team and Etsy's Dark Side). It is through these networks that I came to know
the work of Victoria Shaffer.
A true renaissance woman she creates jewelry, parasols and hats (all of which are available in her
shop, Designs By Victoria...and she can now add published poet
to the list!
"Counting Heartbeats"
is lovingly handmade and handbound book published by
Seraphemera Books.
Want to check out a sample of
her work before you
decide to make a purchase?
Sure you do...
allow me to suggest her poem
"Dreaming."
And if that isn't enough to sate your curiosity
then check out
"Butterfly Wings" and
"Where The Head & Heart Meet."
Renaissance woman indeed.

Congratulations, Victoria.
I wish you success in your new venture!

Onslaught

2009-03-10T08:58:00.003-05:00

Ok. Here comes an onslaught of
project 365 pics...
ready?
set?
GO!

#56

#57
"fallen"

#58
sorry, but the subject of this photo has requested that
the image not be shared with the public.

#59
"spring has sprung"

#60
"morning no2"

#61
"ebb and flow"

#62
"convention"

#63
"girl with horse"

#64
"as above"

#65
"houston sunset"

#66
"lollipop lane"

#67
"sushi on sunday"

Twice as Nice

2009-03-05T12:26:00.004-06:00

I have two photos ("Gallifrey" and "Moving Through Silence Without Motion")
featured in the March/April
issue of All Things Girl.

Stop by, if you feel so inclined, and take a peek.

On an unrelated note:
I have the television on.
I'm watching the Burn Notice marathon on USA.
I can't help it...I love Bruce Campbell...
but I digress...
A commercial comes on and what do I hear?
Stereo Total playing on a Dell
commercial.
I'm not really sure how I feel about that.
Hm.

Oodles and Oodles

2009-03-05T10:39:00.000-06:00

I've just listed a TON of new pieces in my store.
From dark and brooding to light and sweet...
stop in and take a peek!

Down & Dirty Designs

Etsy
Buy Handmade
downanddirty

Un-freaking-believable

2009-03-02T10:14:00.003-06:00

I can't believe this.
My evil, mutant, antibiotic resistant
strain of step is back for a third time in
less than a month.
So, yet again, project 365 will have to be put on
the back burner.
Take care & I'll check in with you all soon.
xxx

Completely Drool-worthy

2009-02-26T10:50:00.001-06:00

All I can say is "Wow."
I stumbled across the oh-so-talented Finnish designer
attiladesign and my salivary glands
instantly went into overdrive.
Yummy-yum-yum.
Whimsical and edgy.
Completely drool-worthy indeed.
Enjoy:

be sure to check out her etsy shop at http://attiladesigns.etsy.com
xxx

Project 365 #45-#55

2009-02-25T13:18:00.005-06:00

Massive game of project 365 catch up...
so here goes nothing:

#45
"reflected in two panes"

#46
"lonesome dove"

#47
"study"

#48
"#804"

#49

#50

#51
"morning cup"

#52
"oh the irony"

#53
"pump"

#54
"skylines"

#55
"installation"

all images copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
now i'm just keeping my fingers x'ed that this stupid strep
throat doesn't come back again
and that I won't have to play catch up
for quite some time.
xxx

Fashion Friday

2009-02-20T12:46:00.004-06:00

So, as you may or may not know, I have been ill.
It's stupid how long I've been sick.
It just keeps coming back...
like that a**hole ex-boyfriend
that just can't take a hint, constantly stopping by, calling
at all hours of the night, making you rethink your stance
on gun ownership...
This bug is
clinging desperately to my insides, fending off
the antibiotics, trying with great tenacity to regain it's
vice-like grip on my body.
Ok. So I'm being a bit dramatic.
It's only strep.
But it won't go away!
So since I'm stuck in bed (again!), hoping that this second round of
medicine does the trick and since I haven't been able to
take ANY project 365 pics, I thought I'd post
a new Fashion Friday.
It's been awhile, after all...and this is as close as
I can come, in my current condition,
to going on a shopping spree...
so with that I give you
"She's Lost Control"

She's Lost Control - by downanddirty on Polyvore.com
until next time.
xxx

It's Official

2009-02-17T09:52:00.003-06:00

I've attained uber-UBER-geek status.

I've applied for tickets to The Antiques Roadshow...
but I couldn't help it...
I have this really really really seriously bizarre postcard from 1910 that I'm just dying to know about...seriously...the message on the back is beyond odd and is written in some weird type of code...curiosity has been killing this kitten for far too long.

so keep your fingers x'ed that I'm selected because inquiring minds want to know.

(boy...I just totally dated myself, didn't I...eh...screw it.)
xxx

ps-sorry about not updating my project 365 images, but the nasty
nasty strep that I had turned out to be resistant
to amoxicillin...and it's come back...
so I will be back to my usual shutterbug ways
as soon as I am back on my feet.
sorry.
:(

Project 365 #44

2009-02-13T18:15:00.002-06:00

"day 2"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
yet another cameraphone capture.
I promise to start making more of an effort.
X my heart.
xxx

Project 365 #43

2009-02-12T21:35:00.003-06:00

"broke as a joke"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
it's best to not engage me in any political discussion for the next
forever...it's been making me very grumbley as of late...
xxx

Project 365 #42

2009-02-11T15:44:00.002-06:00

"sunrise as seen through a dirty car window"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
xxx

It Took Me Long Enough

2009-02-11T12:08:00.003-06:00

But better late than never I suppose...
I was "tagged" last month by Ooty...
so here's how the game is played:

Here are the rules:
* Link to the person who tagged you
* Post the rules on your blog
* Write 7 random things about yourself
* Tag 7 people at the end of your post and link to them
* Let each person know they've been tagged

So here we go...7 random things about me:

~1~ I count my cat, Mischa, among my best friends. If this makes
me a crazy cat lady, then so be it.
~2~When I was 2 years old I wanted to be one of the following when I grew up:
a ballet dancer OR a garbageman
~3~My roommate my freshman year of college (who was selected for me by the
college housing department)was arrested for murdering her father.
yeah.
~4~I love to act but get completely panic stricken if I have to speak in public...
go figure.
~5~I never have any idea whatsoever as to what I am doing. Ever.
Not a clue.
~6~I "adopt" family members via antique photographs...as a result my extended
family is becoming ridiculously large.
~7~I think The Monkees are highly underrated. Seriously.
They were good and you know it.

There you have it.
7 completely random and unrelated facts. So now I suppose I have to tag 7
people, so...
1)Choklit Chanteuse
2)Outsapop
3)Blacklilypie
4)Tattered Rouge
5)barton originals
6)Static White
7)Ghosts A Go-Go Toons

Completely Taken by It

2009-02-11T09:09:00.003-06:00

I was making my daily blog rounds, when I came across this absolutely
fabulous gem on Beat Black's "In Shadows."
I found it so charming that I thought I'd pass
along the warm, fuzzy goodness...cause who doesn't like to
start the day with a little slice of Wonderland?
enjoy...

this brilliant bit was created by Fagottron.
xxx

Project 365 #40 and #41

2009-02-10T12:50:00.002-06:00

Today's theme will inadvertently be numbers, boys and girls...
these are both shots taken while driving down the highway.

#40
"I45"

#41
"59"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
xxx

Project 365 #38 and #39

2009-02-09T10:47:00.003-06:00

#38
"the day broke wild and shaggy"

#39

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

Project 365 #33-37

2009-02-06T18:52:00.005-06:00

I actually managed to get completely caught up today!
Hooray for being productive even when exhausted!
Woohoo!
Is it my best work? Nope.
But I'm learning and staying disciplined (which is a challenge for me...blech).
So here we go:

#33
"grazing"

#34
"mistake in blue"

335
"two pennies to cross"

#36
"poor, poor arthur"

#37
"an exceptional morning"

The Bloop Bears Repeating

2009-02-06T15:12:00.002-06:00

I found this on the coilhouse blog...how the HELL did I not know about this? oh wait...it was 2007...I was living in a tent in the woods in northern ohio watching lunar moths perform their version of the sati ritual...I guess that would explain it...regardless...prepare to be slightly creeped out and totally mesmerized.
I give you "The Bloop:"

watch

and learn:
the bloop on CNN
the bloop on the NOAA
xxx

ps - I swear there will be photos later today...x my heart

Camera Whore

2009-02-06T10:27:00.004-06:00

Clearly I love photography, so is it any surprise
that I'm a complete and utter camera
whore?
I thought not.
Did you know that I'm also a sucker for
good design and vintage pieces?
Well I am.
So it is with tremendous glee that I present to you
these truly adorable and lustworthy
cameras (available at, surprisingly enough, Urban Outfitters.)
Minox Leica Mini Digital Edition Camera

Rolleiflex Mini Digital Camera
The resolution is pretty poor on these, and the features are pretty limited, but
they are so damn cute!
I know.
I'm a total chump.
It can't be helped.
xxx
ps- Project 365 catch up will begin today...as it turns out the bug I had was a bit nastier than
I anticipated, but I'm feeling better now and hope to be completely caught up
by no later than Sunday.

sniffle sniffle

2009-02-03T12:49:00.003-06:00

It would seem the fates are conspiring against my attempt at project 365.
You might have noticed that I did not post a photo yesterday...nor
will one be posted today.
The problem, you see, is that I have fallen rather ill.
I have contracted a wretched little bug that is keeping me in bed
with a rather high fever.
So I'm afraid that I shall have to cheat and take several pics once I'm better and
post-date them.
I know it's not the same and I know that isn't the point of this
exercise, but given the circumstances
it is the best I can do.
So as to not leave you empty handed I leave you with this hilarious
advert.
enjoy.
xxx

Project 365 #31 and 32

2009-02-01T19:11:00.010-06:00

Disclaimer:
I, in all honesty, made absolutely no effort whatsoever to get
a good image yesterday.
I know...
shame on me.
In my defense, I was insanely busy.
So here's a photo I took with my phone while I was out drinking
with the boys last night.
#31

"test"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

on a completely unrelated note:
today has been a great day.
i hope everyone's day rocked as much as mine.
xxx

Project 365 #30

2009-01-30T18:21:00.004-06:00

"homecoming"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
my cat Mischa. He's the absolute best part of coming
home. At the risk of sounding like a crazy cat lady,
my cat is genuinely amazing.
seriously.
Mischa rocks.

Playing Project 365 Catch-Up

2009-01-30T14:33:00.001-06:00

ok. So I haven't been able to post for the past week,
so now it's a game of catch-up.
You shall now be bombarded (as promised) with image numbers 23-29.
I'll try to get #30 up today, but it may well get lumped
together with 31.
The past week has been insanely hectic. It involved a collision between a suitcase and used cat litter, the most
grackles i've ever seen in one place at one time,
a hidden button, a HUGE bubble, amazing cupcakes and cuban food (but
not at the same time, thank god...yuck.), the best friends ever
and a fruitless quest for Howard Hughes' tombstone.
oh my oh yes.
but i digress...i now present to you
Project 365 #23-29

#23
"shop smart. shop s mart."

#24
"tag"

#25
"well traveled"

#26
"up in smoke"

#27
"repetition"

#28
"for lee"

#29
"#CF172-9 reporting"

each and every image copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

Project 365 #22 and a Brief Hiatus

2009-01-22T18:00:00.003-06:00

Well, ladies and gents, I will not have access to my computer
for the next week-ish, so I won't be able to
post my Project 365 images (or much else for that matter).
Upon reuniting with my computer the two of us shall
post images like mad...bombarding the blogosphere
with images galore...ok...so I'm prone to bouts of
hyperbole...it will only be about 7 or 8...
but before I disappear for a week I've decided to leave you
with a genuinely cheery image. I know, I know...you never thought you'd see the
day. The end must truly be near.
But I digress...
I leave you with
"good times"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
See you in a week-ish!
xxx

Project 365 #21

2009-01-21T14:57:00.004-06:00

"baptism"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
I know this is hard to see on the black background. If you click the image
you can view it on white.

Project 365 #20

2009-01-20T20:24:00.004-06:00

"remains"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

"XXXII"

a man who had fallen among thieves

lay by the roadside on his back

dressed in fifteenthrate ideas

wearing a round jeer for a hat

fate per a somewhat more than less

emancipated evening

had in return for consciousness

endowed him with a changless grin

whereon a dozen staunch and leal

citizens did graze at pause

then fired by hypercivic zeal

sought newer pastures or because

swaddled with a frozen brook

of pinkest vomit out of eyes

which noticed nobody he looked

as if he did not care to rise

one hand did nothing on the vest

its wideflung friend clenched weakly dirt

while the mute trouserfly confessed

a button solemnly inert.

Brushing from whom the stiffened puke

i put him all into my arms

and staggered banged with terror through

a million billion trillion stars

-e.e. cummings

Project 365 #19

2009-01-19T14:14:00.004-06:00

Here you go...on time today.
"guilt"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
"we are guilty.
we are beyond hope.
we beg to differ.
we are a terminal case."
-Adam Ant

My project 365 #18 apologies

2009-01-19T09:17:00.003-06:00

I'm so sorry that I didn't get this posted yesterday, but it was a little hectic...
let's just say there was an ambulance
and an emergency room involved.
(and yes, I'm fine...believe it or not, I'm not the one
who had to go to the ER...shocking, I know.)
So without further ado I give you #18 in Project 365, geekily entitled
"Gallifrey"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

#19 will be posted later today, barring any more last minute hospital visits.

project 365 #17

2009-01-17T17:59:00.003-06:00

"yes please."

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
I'll take two hugs, hold the biscuits please.
thanks.

Project 365 #16

2009-01-16T22:49:00.003-06:00

"manic"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

project 365 #15

2009-01-15T20:35:00.001-06:00

"no way out"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

project 365 #14

2009-01-14T19:30:00.003-06:00

"lost and found"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

Project 365 #13

2009-01-13T19:32:00.003-06:00

"i want to be adored."

copyright down & dirty designs
all rights reserved

This is what happens when I listen to The Stone Roses.

project 365 #12

2009-01-12T18:33:00.004-06:00

"waiting"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
a reflection of a reflection

365 #11

2009-01-11T19:09:00.004-06:00

"she waited for him...but he never came"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

Project 365 #10

2009-01-10T23:01:00.006-06:00

"carefully watched for a reason"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
A pigeon discovered in a parking lot.
The wind fluttered her feathers
creating such an effect that one
expected her, at any moment,
to spring to her feet and take flight
once again.

Project 365 #9

2009-01-09T18:45:00.002-06:00

"and the seeds that are sown"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
My eye constantly fluctuates between seeking out that
which is bleak and that which is rich...
today bleakness reigned.

Fashion Friday

2009-01-09T10:05:00.004-06:00

I was listening to the wonderfully amazing Zoe Keating while shopping around...
which resulted in the following:

frozen angels by downanddirty
#9 in project 365 will be posted later today...
but right now I'm off to buy the last bit of supplies
for the new Civil War inspired jewelry line I'm
working on...
more info on that at a later date.
xxx

Project 365 #8

2009-01-08T18:06:00.003-06:00

"Concerning Sir John Falstaff: 413"

copyright down & dirty designs
all rights reserved
an antique ledger from England that is wonderfully tattered...
the name Sir John Falstaff is written on the inside cover...
Sir John Falstaff is a comedic character that appears in three
of Shakespeare's works...why it is written in this ledger, I have
no idea...but it is in safekeeping alongside my other
various treasures.

project 365 #7

2009-01-07T13:00:00.007-06:00

"she's lost control"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved
I took this while watching the film "Control."
Joy Division is one of those rare bands whose music has not
only stood the test of time, but actually manages to still sound
like something new, modern, current.
I have no doubt that 50 years from now a dj could
throw a Joy Division track on the air
and it would still sound completely contemporary and ground breaking.
Long Live Joy Division.

Project 365 #6

2009-01-06T17:11:00.004-06:00

Went on a drive today and came across this:

"Savage"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009
all rights reserved

I adore old movie theaters...and this one is still open.
Now playing: The Day the Earth Stood Still
xxx

Project 365 #5

2009-01-05T17:02:00.007-06:00

365 project #4

2009-01-04T17:52:00.004-06:00

365 #3 and All Things Girl

2009-01-03T22:11:00.010-06:00

My photo "Sunday Drive" is currently featured in the January/February issue of
the online magazine
"All Things Girl."
I am flattered to be featured among such talented artists.
Pop round and take a peek if you get the chance.

And now for your viewing pleasure:
365 project #3

copyright down & dirty designs 2009 all rights reserved
a photo of an ancestor (whose personality, I'm told, is exactly like mine...)
in an antique frame.

Spray of Violets

2009-01-03T12:47:00.004-06:00

Shot in the dark here, but I'm looking for a good violet perfume.
Anyone have any suggestions?
I adored Marc Jacobs "Violets" (limited edition, of course) and Kenzo's "Flower: Satin" (also limited addition...anyone noticing the trend here? I know I complain about this a LOT, but it really gets my goat...)
I've considered this one

but they don't offer a sample, so I'm hesitant to drop that much cash on a scent that
might smell less than awesome on me...
So if anyone could point me in the right direction it would be
greatly appreciated.
xxx

365 project #2

2009-01-02T15:47:00.006-06:00

Number 2 in the 365 project:
"Jack's"

copyright down & dirty designs 2009 all rights reserved
I passed this skating rink on my way to run errands today.
It is still a functioning rollerskating rink...looks like I know what I'll be doing next weekend...

Goodie Goodie Dumdrops

2009-01-02T11:55:00.001-06:00

I came across this notebook whilst shopping for a 2009 appointment book
and it was just too good to pass up. And are you ready for the kicker? It comes with an entire page of "Lookin' Good for Jesus"
temporary tattoos! Can I get a Hallelujah?

by the way...here's the awesome appointment book I grabbed...does it make me a geek
to get excited about new appointment books?
yeah...i know.

ok...i'm done geeking out...
well...
for now anyway.

365 project #1

2009-01-01T12:50:00.006-06:00

So I've decided to jump on the bandwagon and try the 365 photo project...
That's one photo a day for a year.
We'll see how long I'm able to stick to this.
Taking the photos won't be difficult, but getting off my butt and posting them
will prove a challenge. That being said, I'm not making any promises.
I might post all of them at the end of the week,
or every other day, but I'm going to shoot for daily.
We'll see how it goes.

So...
Here's photo number 1:
January 1, 2009

copyright down & dirty designs 2009 all rights reserved

New Year Hilarity

2009-01-01T07:42:00.000-06:00

Happy 2009!
Let's kick the new year off with a laugh, shall we?
I warn you now: before you follow the link I'm about to provide please make sure you make the necessary arrangements.

1) use the restroom. It will prevent the embarrassment of you wetting yourself. (yes, you'll be laughing that hard)

2) grab a box of tissues. (yes you'll be laughing that hard)

3) if you're a dog person, don't even bother...you won't laugh, you won't smile, you'll just roll your eyes and shrug your shoulders. You're time would be better served taste testing your pup's peanut butter flavored dog biscuits (which, by the way, taste NOTHING like peanut butter. You've wasted your money. Don't believe me? Go give one a nibble...I promise you, I'm telling the truth...and don't ask me how I know...).

That being said,
I present to you Will Braden's Cat Haikus.
Will's blog gets my cat Mischa's seal of approval.

copyright 2008 down & dirty designs
all rights reserved

You can thank me later.
Enjoy.
And may the new year be filled with laughter and love.
xxx

10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5...

2008-12-31T13:30:00.000-06:00

Need a last minute outfit for New Year's?
Feel like channeling the spirit of Molly Ringwald channeling the spirit of Annie Potts in Pretty in Pink?
Might I suggest:

"in Molly Ringwald's Dream" product info here by downanddirty

Happy New Year's!

I Smell Something Steamy

2008-12-30T10:35:00.004-06:00

What happens when the brilliant perfumiers behind Black Phoenix Alchemy Labs think steamy thoughts? Phoenix Steamworks and Research Facility is born.
This new perfume line draws its inspiration from all things steampunk.
With names like The Coil, No. 93 Engine, and Ether how could you go wrong?
I can't wait to get my mitts on The Obsidian Widow (notes of pinot noir, dark myrrh, red sandalwood, black patchouli, night-blooming jasmine and attar of rose) and The Robotic Scarab (notes of metal, leather, frankincense & star anise).
Perfect for the mad scientist, avid explorer or steamy little urchin in your life.
Yummy-yum-yum.
Illustration by Mlle. Julie Dillon.

ps- make sure to check out their sister shop Black Phoenix Trading Post...there you can find various and sundry dry goods and beauty products.

Exter-r-r-r-r-rminating Christmas

2008-12-27T17:23:00.003-06:00

, originally uploaded by x PLASTIC NEUROSPASTA.

I stumbled across this dalek Christmas tree (yes indeedy, there's a tree under there!) on We Heart It. Thank you to the individual that hearted it...and thank you, Lindsey J. (aka x PLASTIC NEUROSPASTA) for kicking SOOOOOOOOOOOO much ass!
EXTERMINATE!

Like Pepe le Pew

2008-12-27T11:18:00.007-06:00

I am in love.
I am completely tits over ass for the following:

The music of the ever fabulous Nina Hagen.

Fireside Chai Tea from Zhena's Gypsy Tea. I currently have one bag left of this delicious tea. *sniffle sniffle* Thank heaven for my ever faithful English Breakfast.

The early work of Greta Garbo

This A-FREAKING-MAZING Hemp Hand lotion from the Body Shop that the smashing and dashing duo known as Carrie and Chris sent me for Christmas. (Yes, Carrie, it really is some good sh*t! Muwah!)

photographs of old books, dusty books, dirty books, books on shelves, books in piles, books, books, books (a little OCD anyone? yeah yeah yeah...i know i know)

by stuart interiors

Dig fashion? Check out Only Shallow & Sea of Shoes ...they're always full of inspiration...and speaking of fashion...Are you in need of a giggle? Read this "How to Dress Goth" article. Make sure you read the "Warnings" section at the bottom of the page.

What am I not digging on? I do not dig the fact that:
1) the weather has been too grey and flat for me to go out and play with my new lensbaby muse lens...grrrrrrrrrrrrr.
2) every time I find a perfume I really really like it's either a limited edition or it goes the way of the dinosaurs (par example: kenzo's Flower Satin (which is damn near impossible to track down...damn ltd ed's or Urban Decay's Sin RIP) So my quest of the perfect violet and yummy amber/vanilla perfumes continue...

I'm off to obsess.
well...obsess some more.
xx

Just Received Notice in the Post

2008-12-21T16:21:00.005-06:00

Well I just received notice in the post and the verdict, ladies and gents, is in.
It's lumps of coal for you, I'm afraid.
But who's to say that being naughty is such a bad thing?

Down & Dirty Designs wishes you and yours the naughtiest of holidays and a wondrous New Year.

Learning Curve for Cannibals

2008-12-17T09:00:00.007-06:00

I learned something important this morning:

What I did not learn is how long and how well those 8 cannibals will feed.

I finished two new pieces yesterday (can you tell I was in a bit of a fluffy mood? still brooding, but a fluffy kind of brooding...)
from the north:

she creates herself:

if you're a geek like me then the subject matter and the titles should clue you in on the inspiration for the pieces...if not, then I hope you enjoy them nonetheless.
I'm off to get some coffee...it's freezing and I require caffeine.

Kickin' It With Bob

2008-12-10T09:51:00.006-06:00

For those of you that have yet to figure it out, I love Bob Hope.
I adore the man. I have ever since I was a wee tot. I was two years old and he was my first crush.
So you can imagine how happy I was when awoke this morning having had the most awesome dream ever featuring none other than my beloved Bob.
I bumped into him at a grocery store and invited him to dinner...we were fast friends...so much so that he invited me to do an improvisational dinner theater show with him for an entire week...it was very vaudevillian. I never laughed so hard.
It was fantastic.
Ordinarily I wouldn't bother you with details of a dream (save the one I had a few years ago where I was given a pencil of MAC eyeliner that could punch holes in reality, causing rifts in time and space) but this caused such elation (I actually woke up because I was laughing out loud) I simply HAD to share.
So who was your first crush(celebrity or otherwise)? Inquiring minds want to know.
I hope your day is as awesome as my dream.

sniffle sniffle

2008-12-08T12:07:00.005-06:00

I have a cold...a yucky, nasty miserable cold.
Due to this fact I will provide you with the only thing my fevered brain is capable of processing right now and that is mindlessly entertaining nonsense.
I hope you all enjoy.
xo

Are you miserable? Feel like playing a game that will put you out of said misery?
Then allow me to suggest this game.

Though not technically mindless or nonsense, Bob Hope is, and forever shall be, entertaining:

I prayed this movie would play near me, but alas...I was not so fortunate...now I must patiently wait for the dvd.

And the best advice I've ever heard, courtesy of Jimmy Stewart:

A-HA!

2008-12-01T13:35:00.003-06:00

sometimes epiphanies suck.
have a nice day.

An Accelerating Universe

2008-11-28T14:05:00.004-06:00

Every now and then I like to pop over to the Hubble website and become awestruck by stunning images of our universe...today was one of those now-and-then's.
While looking around I happened upon an interesting presentation and article about the discovery of dark energy and it's roll in the rate at which the universe is expanding. If you are interested in watching the presentation (and reading the more in depth articles that follow) just click here. While I find topics such as this incredibly fascinating they tend to upset me, filling me simultaneously with awe and a sense of pointlessness (the very reason why I am leery of watching "Nova.")...but then I come across something beautiful like Angelo Mariano's "Inverno" or Rastaschas' "Verona" and all is right with the universe once again...dark energy, lunar drift and universal apocalypse be damned.

Please Allow Me

2008-11-19T13:47:00.003-06:00

Please allow me to introduce you to Dr. Steel...some of you may already be familiar with his genius as well as his quest for world domination (a goal which will inevitably result in us meeting in the battlefield...he with his toy soldiers and I with my legions of squirrels...he strives for global domination and I want to be supreme overlord of the universe...you can see how this could be problematic...but i digress...). For the uninitiated, may I now present to you: The Dr. Steel Show:

A Murder of Crows

2008-11-09T10:31:00.003-06:00

I've curated a new collection of crow-y goodness as inspired by a line in The "Merchant of Venice" by my dear Willy Shakespeare...

"The crow doth sing as sweetly as the lark When neither is attended; and I think The nightingale, if she should sing by day When every goose is cackling, would be thought No better a musician than the wren. How many thing by season seasoned are To their right praise and true perfection! "

A Murder of Crows

Here's a small sample of some of the featured items:

Hindsight

gothic snow

La Sorciere Noire - Postcard

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

2008-11-06T10:41:00.004-06:00

The Etsy Steam Team has a lovely write up in Make magazine! High fives all around for the Steam Team! (by the way, if you're interested in checking out the work of the uber-talented Steam Team on Etsy.com just search for the tag "steamteam.") They also have an article regarding Steam Powered which can be found here &
here. It would seem that steampunk is in the process of being thrust into the limelight...
even MTV is getting in on the action.
For those of you who aren't familiar with steampunk, please allow me to direct you to
the following sites that are filled to the brim with useful information and reference
material:
*Aether Emporium
*Brass Goggles

This Post has NOTHING to do with the Presidential Election

2008-11-05T12:08:00.005-06:00

Unlike every single other post that is being written in the blogosphere today, I will not be mentioning the presidential election anywhere in this post other than this very first sentence.

Now then, with that out of the way...
Has anyone ever tried using an inkjet waterslide transfer?
I'm curious to know how well they work as far as durability, ease of use, etc.
Just curious.

Now for something completely random:
I just saw a cartoon of some zombie chickens and it reminded me of the single most bizarre ad campaign ever (courtesy of Burger King).
Subservient Chicken
There you will find a man dressed in a chicken suit who is ready and willing to do what you tell him to do. It disturbs me to no end. The mere fact that this site has been up and running for at least 4 years is truly stunning. Go check it out...I promise you won't be disappointed...mildly disturbed, yes, but disappointed, no.

Today I leave you with:
The Zombie Activity and Coloring Book
available from Jeff Freels.

Artist of the Week

2008-11-02T09:48:00.006-06:00

Every now and then I stumble across an artist whose work delights me...not in a rainbow-and-ponies kind of way...but in a those-twin-girls-from-the-shining-with-a-dash-of-whimsy kind of way. For those of you who enjoy the slightly dark and bizarre, I introduce to you the beauty that is Art & Ghosts. Here a few samples of her amazing work (all of which are available for purchase from artandghosts.etsy.com.

New Shoes

A Mild Altercation Between Friends

Proud Sally - Film Star
Penny Farthing

all images in this post: copyright art & ghosts
all rights reserved

Tearing My Hair Out

2008-10-30T11:07:00.003-05:00

It is with some regularity that Firefox decides to throw a temper tantrum and deletes all my bookmarks. I have just noticed that the Victorian folder I had created is completely gone. ARRRRRRRRGHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
There was a link to an absolutely fantastic blog that featured oodles and oodles of fantastic steampunk/neo-victorian/goth-y goodness and I cannot, for the life of me, remember what it is called. It first came to my attention when it featured this stunning absinthe decanter from the Victorian Trading Company.

I know I'm not providing a lot of information to go on, but if anyone could help me find this blog again (I think it was on wordpress?) I would be eternally grateful.
In the meantime I shall just peruse the glorious and drool-worthy wares that the Victorian Trading Company offers...
case in point:

Railway Station Dancing Doll Music Box
Singing Bird Boxes - Silver Warbler Box
I could go on and on and on for days and days posting the photos of their finery.

So, yeah...any help in finding that blog would be GREATLY appreciated.

Bloody Fantastic!

2008-10-29T15:17:00.004-05:00

Greetings ghouls and boils:

As Halloween (the holiday I hold most dear) draws near it's important to allow your baking to reflect the spirit of the season. So, in the spirit of ghosts, zombies, blood and guts I give you the following:

Courtesy of Etsy's How-Tuesday:
Sweet Tooth of the Tiger makes Bleeding Vampire Cupcakes

read the rest of the article by clicking the How-Tuesday link above.

If zombies are more your speed then I give you:
beatblack's Lunch Meat necklace:

ChristineRenee's

Zombie Escape Plan journal

Do have a newborn? Are you looking for a mobile to hang over the crib? Then try

SaltyandSweet's

Six Feet Under Mobile (one of the absolute most awesome things I've seen in ages!)

How bloody fantastic...
Have a spooktacular evening.

Watch as Your Jack-o-lanterns Cower in Fear

2008-10-27T09:35:00.006-05:00

I really don't think this post requires any explanation...

taken from ectoplasmosis.com

Busy Little Bee

2008-10-24T09:24:00.006-05:00

I've been a busy little bee the past few days. Between job hunting, getting pieces ready for a photography contest and networking like a woman possessed, I'm exhausted. It wouldn't be quite so bad if I had a decent night's sleep, but alas, such was not the case. I had an odd dream of taking photographs of ghosts dressed in Victorian era clothing with my old polaroid camera while a friend of mine (who was, in this dream, schizophrenic) stenciled his living room walls with black spray paint and orange construction site webbing. He wasn't the least bit phased by the images I was capturing on film. Odd. But I digress...

I've had a busy week and the weekend looks as though it will be equally hectic...but tonight should be fun and interesting. I am the newest member in training for River Valley Paranormal Research and Investigations (RVPRI) and tonight, tomorrow night and Halloween night I will be joining them at a large tuberculosis sanatorium. I joined them last Saturday and it was a rather interesting evening. Hopefully this weekend will prove to be even better.

I almost forgot to mention: I was accepted as an artist on Trunkt. I would love it if you would stop by, take a look and say hi.

Today I leave you with this:
I thought I'd google the term "skunks in love." I found this at http://www.antoniol.com/
Too bad they only make it in children's sizes, cause I would totally rock this.

A Morning Cup of Attention Deficit Disorder

2008-10-22T09:15:00.004-05:00

I am predisposed to bouts of fixation/obsession. Not a creepy kind of obsession, mind you...more like a "Wow, I love this! How have I managed to live without it this long!?" kind of obsession. What am I currently obsessed with? In the interest of time, we'll go with the short list today, shall we?

Obsession #1:
Choward's Violet Mints
These things make me drool just thinking about them. Admittedly, they might not be to everyone's taste, (I had one friend say it was like sucking on a sachet from someone's underwear drawer.) but I think they're divine. They taste like violets. Yes, violets and they're yummy in my tummy. They have a slightly powdery, sweet floral taste. Give 'em a try. You can order them direct through Choward's or at Target.com

Obsession #2:
Cheerwine
I first discovered Cheerwine while I was rehearing for a production of "Fumed Oak" when I was 11 years old. By the time I was 12 I couldn't find it anywhere. Jump waaaaay ahead to 2006...I was in a theater watching what was quite possibly the worst film ever made when what did I spy in the background? A Cheerwine vending machine. This brought me hope that my beloved soda was still being manufactured. Lo and behold, it is. Can I get a woohoo? WooHoo!

Obsession #3:
These gorgeous items by these etsy sellers

Etsy
Buy Handmade
downanddirty

One question (or rant, depending on your point of view):
When did reporters (in all forms of media) become so confused? It seems that journalists are editorializing. There are no ethics in journalism anymore. Reporters are to give the facts, not opinions...with all the spinning and slanting that has been going on this election year (hell...the past 10 years for that matter) it's a wonder that everyone isn't completely dizzy.
"Obama is a socialist." "McCain is a racist." "What common food item in your kitchen is killing you right now? Tune in at 10 for the answer."
The news media is filled with rumors, lies and sensationalism. They prey on fear to gain viewer/readership. A newspaper shouldn't endorse a candidate (I'll bet there's fair and unbiased coverage there, eh?) *ahem...Washington Post...ahem...Boston Herald...ahem*
The news outlets should all be ashamed of themselves. I shudder to think what will happen if the media continues down this road void of ethics and real information.

I leave you with this:

A Morbid Bit of History

2008-10-16T13:33:00.006-05:00

Last Friday night I ventured out into the pleasant Ft. Smith evening to enjoy an evening of chills and thrills on the Murder and Mayhem tour offered by the Fort Smith Museum of History. Though most of the stories were harmless and far from frightening, there was one that made my stomach churn and my hair stand on end:

*warning: the following story is graphic and disturbing in nature*

In 1958 Bobby Joe Burns was a 28 year old paranoid schizophrenic with a drug habit. After being admitted to a state mental hospital for a second time, Bobby Joe's mother, Edna, requested his release. Little did she know that this would lead to her gruesome death at the hands of her troubled son.

On Monday, January 27, 1958 the severed head of Edna Burns was found at Immaculate Conception Church inside one of the vestibules. Bobby Joe, claiming he received consent from his mother, proceeded to drug and mutilate her. Later claiming that he was performing an ancient Aztec ritual, Bobby Joe removed her tongue, part of her nose, one of her eyes and then decapitated her. ( One version of the tale claims that he then plugged a radio into her neck.) He also made references to Revelations 20: 9-11 ("They invaded the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the holy ones and the beloved city. But fire came down from heaven and consumed them. The devil who had led them astray was thrown into the pool of fire and sulfuf, where the beast and the false prophet were. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. Next I saw a large white throne and the one who was sitting on it. The earth and the sky fled from his presence and there was no place for them."). Bobby Joe Burns spent the remainder of his years in a mental hospital. Although unconfirmed, he is believed to have passed away some time during the 1980's.
For more information on this and other bits of Fort Smith history, visit the Fort Smith Historical Society.

I told you it was disturbing.
*shivers*

Immaculate Conception Church:

Bobby Joe Burns:

a letter from Bobby Joe Burns

Snap Snap Click Click

2008-10-15T10:20:00.009-05:00

Since all my art and craft supplies are packed away in boxes (due to my recent move) the only outlet I currently have is my photography...and I've been shooting like a woman possessed.

Here are my newest pieces available at downanddirty.etsy.com:
(click the photos to see larger images)

Aside from fleeing a hurricane, endless driving, packing, flat tires and tetanus shots, I'm settling nicely into my life here in the mountains. Now I'm just patiently waiting to find my art/craft supplies and for the leaves to turn.

By the Skin of My Teeth

2008-09-14T07:49:00.009-05:00

I managed to finish and post a few new pieces right before I had to evacuate from hurricane Ike...I'm so glad I keep my work on an external hard drive rather than on my cpu. I was able to tuck my drive into my suitcase and head on out while the gettin' was good. These are currently available for purchase at downanddirty.etsy.com .

New Gypsy and Idiom Inspired Piece

2008-09-08T11:43:00.006-05:00

My newest painting "The Hands of Fate" was inspired by two things: the gypsy tradition of palmistry and something one of my grandmother's used to say ("Every pot has a lid.").
This is number one in a series of five.
Here's a detail...to view the entire painting and listing just click here or visit downanddirty.etsy.com

Fact of the Day

2008-09-06T09:28:00.004-05:00

Bob Hope was an honorary Harlem Globetrotter.

How's that for a completely random fact...

Peek - A -Boo

2008-08-11T11:20:00.006-05:00