Mary Wadsworth's Blooming Ideas

Dreams Do Come True

2011-01-11T16:15:00.000-05:00

Okay I know it has been ages since I posted any thing new, sorry!

But since our Grand Opening July 3rd I haven't had time for much else.
I miss my blog buddies and want to say thanks for hanging in there with me during this adjustment period.
And what an adjustment it has been; but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

The boutique is blossoming into everything we imagined and more.
It is exciting, exhilarating, challenging and full of new experiences.

The building that houses our hopes and dreams
has gone through a major face lift that began last spring.
When I look back at the pictures I am reminded that with a lot of hard work, determination and buckets of help from family, friends and God dreams really do come true.

Let me show you....

This is what the Indian River Train Depot built in 1882 looked like just last spring.
And now...
She is so pretty!
I chose the colors based on my love of bumblebees, and the fact that the laws of physics do not apply to them. You see, scientifically speaking a bumblebee's body is way too big for it's little wings,
yet, it can fly.
The bees look at their wings and believe.

We looked and looked at several locations,
and this is the one we attached our little wings to.
And so far baby, we are flying!

The inside is just as bright and welcoming as the exterior.
The color behind the counter was chosen in honor of my late Nana.
A soft turquoise blue was her signature color. She always used it in her art, wardrobe and home decor.
Wherever Nana was, there was a hint of this color.
So this wall reminds me that she is never far.

This is the before picture,

And this is what it looks like now!
My brother Mike is a very good carpenter, he and I built this counter together.
It's nice and spacious so two of us can work behind it with ease.
The color, the corbels and the bead-board add to its cottage charm.
Here is a before shot of the large bay windows that face the recreational trail. The trail runs from Gaylord to Mackinac City, Michigan.
It's right out our back door! How cool is that? In the summer it is a hiking/bike path and then when it snows it becomes part of the snowmobile trail system. Did I mention we rent bikes? Well we do, with the trail right there it was pretty much a given.

Here is how the bay windows look now.
I decided to dress them with relaxed roman shades in a beachy stripe.
They shades help to cool the space in the morning and add a happy pop of color.

This is a peek at the main showroom when viewed from the upper studio/gallery.
As you can see we were decked to the ceiling for the Christmas Season.

The front doors dressed in holiday trimmings,
and Ollie standing at attention awaiting new friends.

A faux fireplace and a grand tree were front and center in the showroom.
The tree was decorated in shades of of golden/brown,
frosted whites and various hues of sparkling green.

The following photos are of various vignettes throughout the main showroom from different times of the season.
Many of our unique offerings are from Michigan artists.

Like this glass Christmas tree sun catcher.
Original watercolors.

Couture garments and jewelry.

Hand painted and custom pillows.

Petoskey stone wine stops, cabinet pulls, frames and mirrors.
In addition to our broad array of products we have also hosted several special events and classes throughout the season. We plan to continue and expand the classes and events for next season.

Our Halloween make and take was a big hit!
Everyone went home with a custom creation that could be worn or serve as a decorative centerpiece.
The hats began with an armature constructed from a plastic Jack-o-lantern bucket and a cardboard brim.
The armatures were then covered in paper pulp and each student painted and embellished to their hearts content.

Peg in Halloween Couture.
Me in my sister and nieces hat.

more Halloween hatters.

Polka dots and stars so fun!

Then on Halloween we all wore our hats and had a big party at the shop and handed out treats.

We had so much fun we decided to create a similar project for Christmas.
This time the paper mache creations were inspired by a classic snowman top hat, and served as tree toppers or centerpieces.

The top hat armatures all ready for decorations.
Here are the fantastic creations the group created.
The classes and demonstrations were also well received.
Such as : Watercolor, drawing, silk painting, lampwork jewelry, knitting...

I am already making plans for next year and many of our instructors are already setting class dates. As soon as we finalize the schedule for spring we will post an update here and on FaceBook. The room we use for these events is the area that once served as the luggage transport area. Way back when the building was a train station.
The wood floors and walls are so old and full of character. The walls even have inscriptions dating back to the early 1900's. The original coal wood stove and freight scale are still intact.
I really don't have any great pictures showing the whole studio,
I will take some to show you what it looks like.

Like I mentioned the building is so old there is no insulation and only one small heater.
So we had to close down till spring, it was just to darn cold and the heating bills were outrageous.

I am already fast at work, in my home studio creating art for next season.
I can hardly wait, we have so many ideas and plans.
I must admit though I am looking forward to catching up with family, friends, skiing and snowmobiling.

Now that things have settled down I promise to post more often.
This first season took a lot out of me. I have worked retail since I was in my teens,
but when its yours its a whole new ball game.
Take care and as always thanks for letting me share.
Wishes and kisses,
xo
Mary

M I A Missing in Art

2010-04-09T10:19:00.001-04:00

Hi there,
whoever said the earth is round was oh so wrong.
Cause I found the edge and fell off.

Well, not really but it feels that way.
I have been so busy working on a new project I have had little time for anything else.

What is a dream if you don't pursue it?
This is a question I have been asking myself a lot lately.
And my answer...a sad fantasy.

It's time to spread my wings, take a leap of faith,
and flap my wings like mad.

After a long time of thought, tears, anxiety, joy, research and tons of prayer,
We have decided to open a gallery/boutique in our home town of Indian River.

It took months for us to find the right location,
but now that we have everything is just falling into place.

Here is a picture of the building as it stands now,

This is the old Train Depot in Indian River.
The building was built in 1882.

She is old, but oh so full of character and history.
This sweet old gal is about to get a major face lift over the next few weeks.

Our target date for the opening is June 1st, will see if we make it. lol

I hope to catch up with all of you on your blogs soon,
and I will try and keep you updated on our progress.

Thanks for letting me share and as always take care,
xoxo
Mary

SHORT AND SWEET

2010-02-14T20:26:00.004-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day.
I hope you all have had a wonderful day.

I spent mine tucked away in my nest.
Baking, sipping tea and cuddling with my pups while watching a gentle snow fall.

It's been a pretty sweet day.

xoxo
Mary

Cabin Fever and a stiff neck!

2010-01-15T23:27:00.001-05:00

I think I have said this before,

"You know you have cabin fever if ice fishing sounds remotely entertaining!"

Well I have cabin fever or the winter blahs,

but I refuse to go ice fishing.

Talk about cabin fever, I don't get it!

No disrespect to the fisherman, but sitting in a box on a block of ice

waiting for a cold slimy fish

hmm?

Nope can't see me enjoying that.lol

On top of the cabin fever I have also strained the muscles in my neck.

No Mom I wasn't on the the snowmobile when I did it.

Cause I know that's what you are thinking.

I actually did it hauling my Christmas decorations down to the basement of all things.

Since then I have been laying low and staying quiet for the last two weeks

hoping the muscles would soon relax.

Now that my neck is finally getting better

I will be able to head down state tomorrow with my sister

and niece to celebrate my birthday

with our Mom and Dad.

When I told my Mom we were coming down to visit she said,

"Oh honey that's great you girls can take down my Christmas decorations."

Wow, how fun my neck hurts just thinking about it.

Do you think if I told her I was going ice fishing

instead she would believe me?

LOL...

Have a great weekend!

Mary

What a Ride!

2010-01-01T19:46:00.011-05:00

Happy New Year!

Cheers to a New Year and a new toy.
I am so excited...look what Santa brought me!!!
Remember in my last post when I said I wish I had Santa's sleigh?
Well whats the next best thing?
A new Yamaha Phazer GT snowmobile!

We just picked it up today and went on a long ride up and around Mullet Lake, across
valleys deep with snow, and into a forest of tall pines and sparkling streams.
I can't find the words to express the beauty we see on our rides, it is truly God's country.
I really need to find a way to share this with you guys.
Hmmm...maybe a helmet camera :)

My husband and I have been riding for years,
but it's going to be a whole new experience on this sled.
This machine is so responsive, snappy and bouncy it is like riding a jack rabbit.
There is a bit of a learning curve here for me, because this sled is so different from my last one.
The riding position on this machine is like that of a dirt bike or motorcycle.

But I plan on riding it a lot so I should get the hang of it soon:)

I bet you guys are kinda surprised I am such a tomboy, but it's true.
I love to ride!

Wishing all of you a fantastic ride this New Year!

May all your wishes come true!

xoxo
Mary

2009-12-24T12:30:00.006-05:00

Merry Christmas my sweet friends I hope this post finds you

warm, cozy and surrounded with family and friends.

The sled is loaded and we are on our way.
A few more hundred miles to go and we will be with our family.
We left the house at 9:30 and should arrive in Ohio around 2:00, weather permitting:)
First stop Sylvania Ohio, to celebrate with my hubby's family.
Then Christmas morning we head back north to Monroe Michigan
to visit with our dear friends Steve and Angie
and their three little sweeties.

Hop back in the sled and continue north
to my folks house in Grosse Pointe to celebrate with my family on Christmas Day.

I am tired just writing about it.
I wish I had Santa's sleigh!
I am definitely adding this to my wish list next year. LOL!
I am so thankful for coffee:) tee hee

Speaking of thankfulness I am so thankful for all of you my wonderful friends
I have met through blogging.
Your kind comments and words of encouragement and friendship are such a blessing:)

I have to share some pictures of some wonderful gifts I recently received
from two genuinely gracious and lovely ladies I have met through blogging.
The first comes from my dear friend Donna of Brynwood Needleworks,
she has truly spoiled me.
Just look at all the goodies she sent!

The Acorn ornament is made from a richly colored felt
topped with a yummy brown velvet and embellished with a sweet little acorn charm!

Just the perfect colors and theme for our guest room.
Which has an acorn and woodland animal theme.
As you can see in the photos here.

She also sent me my first ATC, it is a work of art!
And shall be framed and added to the guest room as well.
She also sent me a handmade needle cozy, did I mention she spoiled me?
Thank you, thank you Donna you are sweet heart:)
If you want to see her beautiful works please click here,
Brynwood Needleworks

And a big thank you to my sweet friend Shell at the Raspberry Rabbits
for sending me this super cute coffee cup filled with yummy chocolates,
just what this weary little elf needs:) Lots of caffeine!
Thank you Shell!

Blessings to you all.
Merry Christmas wishes
and sugar plum kisses!
Love
Mary

Another show...

2009-12-14T11:45:00.002-05:00

The show went okay,
not as well as the first but that is okay because I learn something new every time:)
My booth for this show was considerably smaller and tested my display skills for sure.

I was thankful for the years I had spent working for a design boutique in Temperance, MI.
The store was small but my bosses purchasing habits were not!
Every Christmas was the same story how do we fit 400 yards of goods into a 20x40 space?
With a lot of imagination, coffee, humor and little sleep.

The booth still needs lots of tweaking and
I have started sketching out some new ideas for the next show.

So many people commented on my hand painted floor cloth, that I may add these to our
product line next year, in a much smaller version of course:)
The other comments that we found interesting were
how many people thought my ornaments were decorations for baby rooms.
I guess it must be my color pallet and whimsical
style?
Lots of folks also wanted baby's first Christmas and personalized ornaments.
I had a few pieces that accommodated their needs.

Like this fun little hat ornament.
I brought it back to the studio and I
added two little paper clay stars for the name and year of birth.

Of course this got the wheels spinning,
and I am already working on new designs for baby.

I have also received some special request via email for these custom pieces.

Two personalized Quilted Tree ornaments
and a new doggy garland with yellow Labradors.

Now with the shows behind me and the custom pieces completed
I can focus on hand made gifts and my holiday decorating.

As soon as I have some holly jolly set out I will share some photos
of our little nest:)
Hope all your holiday projects are coming along well and you are having a jolly good time.

Until next time my dears,
gingerbread kisses and eggnog wishes!

xoxo
Mary

Winter has arrived...

2009-12-03T04:49:00.000-05:00

The snow has been falling steady since early this morning.

Turning the view out my studio window into a winter wonderland.

I wish the pups and I could go out and play in it but there is just to much work to be done.
The show went so well last weekend (thank you for the well wishes):) that I have decided to do another one this Saturday in Boyne City, MI.
I should have my head examined!
Oh well no time for that now maybe after the New Year. LoL!

Here are some photos from my booth,

and of me and my Mom Rita Roo!

We even made it on the front page of our local paper,

Big thanks to the owners of the paper, Kathy and Scott Swanson!
You guys are sweet but sneaky:) Tee hee!

Okay enough silly pictures of me here is the good stuff...
the latest yum, yums out of the elf factory.

Ta Da,
please meet the Elf Elders Gate Keepers to the Land of Glee.

If you are pure of heart and on a true quest for Glee,
access they will grant to thee.

A little FYI, legend has it they can be bribed with peppermint bark
from the Forest Of Fa La La.

I have also been working on a new collection called Christmas at the Cottage.

Images of holly berry, cardinals, snow capped roof tops and festive wreaths
are depicted in a vintage pallet of vanilla, antiqued red and cheery greens.

I wrote this little verse to compliment the collection:

Christmas At The Cottage.

Cardinals flit about with winter on their wings.
Then huddle in the holly when bells begin to ring.

Horses trot through the deep,
past frosted trees fast asleep.

Beyond the branches a dim light gleams,
while skaters dance on crystal streams.

Snow begins to fill the air,
now over the bridge you're almost there!

Past the pines through the gate,
Where your cottage faithfully waits.
Copyright 2009 Mary Wadsworth

This is my favorite piece so far.
This wall pocket is sooo "cottagie" with its scalloped edge and polka dot sash.

Hand made from paper pulp and paper clay.

A stocking hung with care...
And a cozy cottage for two,

I love this color palette and imagery so much
I know this collection is going to grow and grow.

Hope all of your holiday projects are coming along.
I will be checking in with all of you later.
So until then happy holiday creating my little elves.
Peppermint wishes,
Mary

Just Checking In...

2009-11-25T11:27:00.000-05:00

Hi gang so sorry for the absences but I have been knee deep in glue and glitter:)

The show I am participating in is this Friday and of course I am feeling behind.
This is the only other show I have signed up for, so I wanted to have lots to offer.

Here are some of the new pieces still in production.

And these little gals came caroling to my imagination the other day.

They introduced themselves as the Snow Sisters

Mable, Grace and Stella.

They are very sweet I just wish they would stop singing!

Ollie and Otter have decided the squirrel outside is much more entertaining than
the Snow Sisters.

As most of you know I have spent a good portion of my life as an Interior Designer,
so art/craft shows are new to me.

I am excited about the show, but so not excited about the hour at which I must rise that morning to set up.

I am so not a morning girl!!!

The show is in its 29th year, and is always held on the day after Thanksgiving
in the past when we have gone to shop it has been wall to wall people.
Hopefully there will be lots of eager shoppers this year.

I have to say I am a bit nervous as well, I think I am just overwhelmed so much still to do.

So with that being said I better get back to work, I wont be posting till after the show.

Therefore I want to wish you all a happy and healthy holiday, and let you know how thankful
I am for you, my wonderful friends I have made through blogging!

Speaking of wonderful friends please stop by the wonderful world that Donna of http://brynwoodneedleworks.blogspot.com/ has created.
She is having an amazingly generous giveaway!
You wont be believe all the goodies she has to share:)

Cheers my dears and gobbles of goodness to you!
Happy Thanksgiving

xoxox,
Mary

Snow and a Show

2009-11-09T13:06:00.001-05:00

Well I guess I can start talking about Christmas now
because it snowed here the other day (just a little)
and I had my first holiday show yesterday.

The show was hosted by my friend Kathy Vantreese
the talented artist and owner of Cold Nose Productions

and her crazy sidekick the ever elegant yet odd Madame Stella.
Stella arrived late and by the looks of it I think she had already been dipping into the eggnog
a bit earlier.
Oh Stella!

Kathy is currently working on her new website
and I have been trying to get her blogging, we'll have to wait and see.
So until she does I will share some photos of her work and provide her email,
coldnose@charter.net just in case you see something you must have for the holidays.
She salvages wool blankets and sweaters,
felts them and turns them into fun and festive creations.
Such as:
Embellished gloves, patched pockets for sunglasses or cell phones,
decorative pillows,

and these super fun felted garlands, that sold like crazy:)!
She also makes rag rugs, felted stuffties and Christmas trees.
Her work is happy and homey with a touch of nostalgia,
truly a delight.

The sweet little plaid flower brooches are the handy work of my talented friend Mary Kushner.
Are these not the cutest, I just love plaid!

Here is a close up.

If you want one or a "bunch":) let me know and I will put you in touch with Mary.

Kathy had me set up my display in the front of the shop with the window as my backdrop.
It was a lovely bright day and my ornaments glistened in the sunshine.
The Perfect setting to introduce some of my new pieces...
A new garland in a Scottie dog theme
New mitten ornaments,

and new wall tiles, take a close look at the ribbon.
Hand made out of a muslin strip embellished with paint and word stamps!

I love how this turned out I think this would be so sweet for a child's first Christmas or an adorable addition to a nursery.

And cottagie fish in fun colors.

The show was a great success and so much fun!
Just what I needed to get me in holiday motion.
My next show is the day after Thanksgiving at our high school in Indian River.
So the next few weeks are going to be a paper mache marathon!

I have more new pieces to share but I have to get some house projects done and packages ready for the mail so that's all for now my dears:)
I can't wait to settle in with a cup of tea later tonight and visit with all of you via blogland.
xoxo,
Mary

Gathering the Goodness of Fall

2009-11-02T15:42:00.000-05:00

I love to capture real life moments with words and paper mache.

The other day I was sitting on the window seat in my studio,
working on my to do list for the day when a squirrel caught my eye.
He sat on the branch of our big old oak tree munching away.
His tail curled along his back like a blanket.

I let my eyes fall down the moss covered trunk to my flower bed below.
The flowers had begun to bow to the autumn chill
while still clinging to their faded blossoms aged by wind and rain.

Such a beautiful pallet of browns, pinks, purples and greens.

The blue sky was alive with flocks of birds
that moved with effortless grace like choreographed dancers.
I was so inspired by this moment
I was moved to create a piece that would capture this beautiful scene.

Sometimes when I make a new piece or a painting,
a story starts to emerge and sometimes just a few short lines.
I love incorporating words into my work.
To me this adds one more dimension or layer to the piece.
Drawing the viewer in an enveloping them into that moment.

As I looked out the window I was reminded of the old saying " birds of a feather flock together"
and decided to incorporate this into the work.
This piece has a an excerpt from the poem below which I wrote in free verse form.

The wind whips and the trees dance. Leaves swirl to the ground like bits of confetti. Sun kissed clouds blush a pale pink against a forever sky. While the squirrels and birds of a feather flock together gathering the goodness of fall.

The excerpt on the tag reads,
"Birds of a feather flock together, gathering the goodness of fall."

This birds on this piece are made with a liquid paper mache mix
which my husband and I have perfected over time.
We pour the mix into a mold that we make out of silicone.
Any molds I use in the making of my pieces are my molds
we have made from my original sculptures.
The original birds where sculpted using paper clay.
Most of my pieces are a compilation of my original castings and hand sculpted components.
Some of my pieces are sculpted all by hand, it just depends on what I am making.

Once the bird castings are dry they are sanded, primed with gesso and then hand painted.
I also seal my pieces with two coats of varnish.

The flowers and small acorn on this garland are made by hand in paper clay.

And as always bits of yarn, ribbon and tattered fabric embellish the piece.

This Garland of Goodness will be available in my Etsy shop on
Wednesday.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/bloomingideas

We have had a lovely season for fall this year in northern Michigan.
I am sad to see it go...
The winds have turned colder and the colors are beginning to fade
as the stage is being set for winter.
So as a fond farewell to fall and all it's splendor I leave you with
my Michigan Moments in Autumn.

A country road some where near Mackinaw city.

A trip to Just A plain Farm for pumpkins

In the woods
Apples harvested from my brothers farm

The views out our front window,
across the bay.Spiced pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting,
and warm apple cider.
I hope you have a had a fabulous fall
filled with pumpkin kisses and apple cider wishes.
xoxo,
Mary

Giving and Receiving and the Art of Sharing

2009-10-13T09:31:00.015-04:00

Who doesn't love being a recipient of something special?
Gifts come in many forms, kind words, a gesture of appreciation, a simple hug, and blog awards!
Just this weekend I was honored with two blog awards, my first ever!

The first one came from a new blog friend who's wonderful work I found via another blog.
You can check out Micah's beautiful art and blog here: http://www.notionsoffancy.blogspot.com/
Following Micah's lead I am listing seven things about myself and listing
seven blog sister's that deserve this award and have made an impact on me through their sharing in blogland.

1. I am not a schedule person, more fly by the seat of my pants kinda of a girl.
2. I like small spaces my main studio is the size of a show box and that is fine by me.
3. I love old music like Billy Holiday and old Black and white films like Arsenic and Old Lace.
4. I am a people person and I adore animals.
5. I have to drink two cups of coffee in the morning in my pj's, I am not a morning girl.
6. I love to shop.
7. I love being and artist and can't imagine any other life.

Now for seven blog sisters who inspire me with their words,wisdom and work.
Donna Liljegren at Brynwood
Julie at Julie King Art
Jenn at Noodle and Lou
Shell in Bunnyville
Julie Heymaker
Silke at Metamorphosis
Cindy of Yapping Cat Studio

The other blog award I received is from my friend and blog sister Silke of Metamorphosis
Her blog is a tapestry of life, and beautiful art filled with color and texture.

I am blessed to call these women my friends.
Thank you Silke and Micah for honoring me.

Speaking of honor I was blessed a few months back to share my artistic gifts
in a very special way.
My brother Michael works for the Red Cross in Petoskey Michigan.
Recently the Petoskey staff suffered a great loss when one of their long time friends and co-worker lost her battle with cancer.
Wanting to honor her life and friendship, they asked me to paint a park bench as a tribute to her.
I was humbled that they would ask me to participate in the remembrance of their dear friend.
The bench is titled the River of Life,
and the painting depicts the various passions she enjoyed.

She was an accomplished pianist as well as an avid windsurfer and cross country skier.

The dedication took place in August at Red Cross of Petoskey where the bench will remain in memorial.

Be blessed my sisters,
xoxo
Mary

Another Trip To the Land Of Glee

2009-10-05T14:39:00.014-04:00

We had plans this weekend to go to a local cider mill,

but the weather had other ideas.
It was cold wet and miserable,
so I decided to go to a place where I know the weather is always beautiful.
The Land of Glee.
Such a lovely place is the Land of Glee,
that I just had to bring some of it back with me to share with you.

Okay all silliness aside.
Because of the weather I stayed tucked away in the studio all weekend.
Longing for the colors of fall I decided to make
more trees from the Land Of Glee.

I just put them in my Etsy shop today.

So if your weather is yucky I hope this little trip to the Land of Glee
helped brighten your world.
xoxo,
Mary

Fall has arrived in the land of Glee

2009-09-26T20:26:00.000-04:00

Fall has arrived in my imaginary land of Glee.

A while back I shared a sneak peek of some trees from the Land Of Glee.

And like some of my projects, they slipped to the back of the busy pile;
but have resurfaced in festive fall colors and decorations!

This tall fellow is made from paper pulp and paper clay.
Painted in bold colors of green, orange, purples, fuchsia and brown.
I also added speck of orange glitter here and there for whimsy.

The trunk is wood wrapped in green and brown polka dot fabric
with tattered edges.
Finished at the bottom with lime green glitter yarn.

The tree stands also contributed to the delay of the trees as well.
I wanted to create something unique and after several different ideas I like this base best.

In fact I like the bases so much I have been contemplating other uses.
Like chunky drawer pulls and decorative wall tiles with inspiring words, we'll see.

The tree stand is made of paper pulp and paper clay.
I painted it with complimentary greens that I antiqued with a Burnt Sienna wash.

Also made of paper clay is the plumpy little pumpkin that sits at the base of the tree.
A small polka dot heart and glitter yarn adorn the top of the pumpkin.

I am crafting a small tag to hang from the piece as well.
It will read "To live in the Land of Glee one must harvest joy"

I am quickly working on more trees and other surprises from the Land Of Glee.

Thanks for stopping by,
Mary

Always Seek Vet Advice First!

2009-09-21T14:10:00.001-04:00

Hi my sweet friends thank you for all the well wishes for the pups!
We really appreciate it and so do they, you girls are the best:)

I just wanted to stress how important it is that you always consult your Vet before doing something like this. We were lucky to have done the right thing for Otter.
But in some cases this may not be the course of action to take, it all depends on what was ingested, when it was ingested, and the overall health of the animal.
Every situation is different and only
a trained Veterinarian should evaluate the situation.

So don't wait for an emergency to occur, remember knowledge is power.

Okay I feel better now, I just love you guys and want everyone to be safe, healthy and happy:)

Best wishes,
and
Kisses

Mary

Anxiety!

2009-09-20T12:15:00.002-04:00

Anxiety can come in many forms,

and a few weeks back it came in the form of our beloved baby Otter.

Otter and her sister, our other baby Ollie

are our two very mischievous eight year old Schnauzer mixes.
My nick name for them is Whuppis, what is a Whuppis you ask?
Take one part puppy and and one part wild wabbit and you get a Whuppy or a Whuppis.

Why a wild wabbit? Well when they are running after a ball, squirrel, chipmunk or anything else that moves they get going really fast and then they start to hop.
It's the funniest thing I have ever seen!
I will try and catch it on video some time to show you, it is hysterical!

Okay back to my story, Otter is a sweetie she loves to love and be loved.
She is curious and smart. When she was a pup she would watch TV and bark at the dogs on the screen. Airplanes and helicopters fascinate her, the minute she hears one approaching she looks for it and watches as it passes. It's almost like she is wondering how they fly.

She and Ollie love the water and boat rides.
Swimming Schnauzer I know crazy, but it's true! Otter truly lives up to her name when she is in the lake. She loves to search for small rocks; she paws them with her feet then plunges her head under and proudly returns to the shore with her prize.

Now you would think a pup that smart
would know better than to eat everything she finds on the ground! Right?
Wrong, not my Otter she picks up everything!
She is especially fond of acorns, which she swallows whole and then proceeds to share them with us around 3:00 in the morning, yuck!!!
You would think by the third stomach ache she would have figured it out.
So smart in some ways and yet so not.

Thank God she doesn't try and eat the rocks from the lake.

Because of this habit of hers we keep a very close eye on her, but a couple of weeks ago I let her get out of my sight for just a minute only to turn around and find her chowing down on something in our neighbors yard. I call her and she ignores me, I yell spit out! Normally she obeys this command, but not this time. So I quickly run across the yard, grab her collar and yell spit out again. Out pops this bright blue chunk, what on earth is this? I am thinking.
Then panic sets in, could this be what I think it is? No no please tell me no! I scoop up Otter and the chunk of blue stuff and head for the house screaming for my husband.

Guy comes to the door and there I am standing,
dog in one hand and unknown substance in other.

I am hyperventilating at this point and hysterical!
I put Otter down and show Guy what she had been eating, while screaming what is this?
I know what it is but I am hoping against hope I am wrong.

I can tell by the look on Guys face my deepest fear is realized.
"Rat poison!" I scream oh my God where could it have come from not our neighbors they have a dog and they know that I have sever O C D. (obsessive compulsive disorder) and one of my biggest fears is poison and chemicals. So where? In My state of hysteria I run to our neighbors
hoping I am wrong and it is some form of fertilizer they had been using.

No such luck, they had not put down any fertilizer or poisons.
While I am at the neighbors Guy decides he needs to take action.
He reads a lot of articles and books on pet health care. He remembered an article he had read about what to do in the event your dog ingests poisons.

Administer hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting,
"what are you freaking crazy poison on top of poison?"
At this point I am about to have a heart attack and am screaming at my poor husband.
I call the emergency number for our vet and get the answering service because it is late afternoon on a Saturday, they say a vet will call me back within 10 minutes.
We don't wait for the vet to call us back we scoop up both pups and head for the clinic.
We live about thirty minutes from the clinic, time being of the essence my husband who never speeds broke ever speed limit known to man.

While en route Otter vomits all over the back seat, Ollie is thoroughly disgusted and promptly hops to the front seat. Gross yes, but we are so relieved the Hydrogen peroxide has worked.
We arrive at the clinic to find the on call vet is there already making her rounds. Thank God.
She evaluates both pups just in case Ollie may have come in contact with it as well and then does an extensive search online to determine what brand of poison it is. It is very important to determine what kind of poison may have been ingested so proper supportive care can be administered. She determines the brand and puts both dogs on vitamin K for 8 weeks. The type of poison Otter ingested causes death by hemorrhaging by depleting the body of vitamin K. So vitamin k is taken as a supplement to counter act this and then we follow up with blood test to check coagulation levels.

The doctor said that Guy's quick thinking with the hydrogen peroxide saved Otters life! To learn more about this please speak with your vet on your next visit.

Both dogs are healthy and happy and so are we!

If you have pets or neighbors with pets please do not use these types of poisons for pest control. They are so deadly that if a mouse dies from eating said poison,
and your cat or dog eats the dead mouse the poison is so toxic it can also kill that cat or dog!

I hope this post raises awareness about this danger and helps others avoid this trauma.

Thanks for letting me share,
and as always take care.
xoxox
Mary

Nesting News

2009-08-25T21:11:00.014-04:00

Hi girls I am still here,

so sorry for the absence but it has been a hectic month.

Between the construction of the new sun room, out of town guests, both people
and the four legged kind and a trip to the animal emergency (more on my next post, and everyone is okay) this place has been hoppin.

This week we are getting ready for a huge long over due garage sale,
I will be so glad when this is over.
Garage sales are a lot of work, especially when you have this much stuff.
But in my defense a lot of this stuff is leftover from the Ohio house,
and that was a big old house.

We are still working on the cottage trying to merge pieces from the Ohio house.
Deciding what stays and what goes, it isn't easy.

I have made some progress in the upstairs studio thanks to my sweet and talented friend Cindy.
Look at these super cute pillows she made
and the sweet additions she created for the curtains and window seat skirt.
I just love it!

When I had my interior design company Cindy was my seamstress and my constant support.

I could have never accomplished my design endeavors with out her wit, wisdom and patience.
Thank you Cindy you are a truly wonderful friend.

When she and her hubby George visited last month she and I started making plans to start working together again on some one of a kind pillows and pet beds to sell on Etsy.
If we pursue this idea you girls will be the first to know:)

And speaking of new ideas here is my latest paper mache creation.

Meet Blue the turtle.

Sorry the pix are so crumby.
I would take more but he already sold:)!

Well, I have lots more to share but there is garage sale work to be done.
So bye for now and thanks for stopping over.

Wishes and kisses,
Mary

Junkin Jewels and Journal...

2009-07-03T09:33:00.003-04:00

Found this gem of a fish vase while junking the other day.
It is going to be perfect in the main bath.

I added the red for a pop of color.

Last weekend My sister Meghan, my niece Katie
and Roxy the circus dog came over for a girls weekend.
We watched silly chick flicks ate lots of junk and played in the studio.

Katie is participating in a vet shadowing program at our local animal hospital,
in preparation for college.
Her goal is to became a Veterinary Surgeon someday.

She has to take notes on what she observes while the doctors work,
so she made this super cute journal to take to work.

We are so proud of her!
Did I mention she is only fifteen and in addition to working at the vet she also works at the golf course four days a week.
I can't remember what I was doing at fifteen,
but I am sure it was nothing as responsible as this.

You go girl!!!

Not much to mention in regards to the sun porch,
there was a problem with the window installation so that kind of slowed things up a bit.
It's not a big deal though cause our weather has been awful.
I think today's high will be 65 degrees with rain:(

Well back to work...
Ta ta for now.

Mary

Sweet Treat And Nesting News

2009-06-20T17:09:00.000-04:00

Look at this super sweet gift I received as a Thank You
from artist Julie HayMaker Thompson.

Julie's little pooch Peanut had to have surgery recently,
so I sent her a little get well gift and sweet Julie sent me one of her fabulous pieces.

Thanks Julie I love this piece, and it matches my kitchen colors!
You are a sweetheart:)!!!

Julie is an amazingly gifted artist,
I am a huge fan of her delightful work!

If you love mix media that is whimsical, dreamy and cheerful then you will
want to take a look here.
Julie Haymaker

The sun porch is moving right along,
I can't believe how much they have accomplished already.

They said the will have it all enclosed by Tuesday, yippee!

and here is a snap shot from our backyard looking down the hill towards Mullet Lake.

The weather has finally cleared up and it is a beautiful day.
Well, the hubby wants to go kayaking so I better say good day.
Hope your weather is lovely and you have a great weekend.

Wishes and kisses,
Mary

Nesting News!

2009-06-16T11:45:00.001-04:00

I know I have been quiet for a while with my blogging,

but that's because we have been so busy!

We have always wanted to make lots of improvements to the cottage,
but never had enough time.
Now that we are here for the entire summer we are going full steam ahead!

Here are some pictures of the projects we have underway.

We have dismantled the back deck, which will be replaced with a three seasons sun porch:)
Construction starts tomorrow!!!

Here is how it looks now.
The other projects are small by comparison but still time consuming.

This is our main bath.
A few years back we installed new flooring, stripped the wallpaper and painted the walls green.

We never changed the floral tiles around the tub for several reasons.
One of the reasons was cost, the other was time...we never enough time to do it ourselves.
So the other day while taking a bath I had an aha moment...
"why not cover them up with paper."

And that is what I did.

Before shot.
I cut squares out of hand made paper that is green in color with flecks of brown.
Then I soaked the paper squares in water and patted them off between two towels.
This made the paper easier to work with,
then I added white glue to the surface of the tile and one side of the paper.
Waited till it was tacky and applied the paper to the tile and let it dry.

Once dry I sealed it with four coats of varnish.
Will it last forever? Most likely not, but it was quick and inexpensive.

And now it looks like this,

much better.

Now I just have to hang some art, attach fabric to the doors of a little storage cabinet
and turn this estate sale find into a decorative mirror/shelf for the empty wall over the tub.

Oh, the Trees of Glee are coming along I will share photos of them soon and more
nesting projects.

Thanks for visiting and for hanging in there with me through the posting drought:)

Wishes and kisses
Mary

Sping Bugs

2009-05-15T21:28:00.001-04:00

Ah, spring the season for blooms, bugs and allergies.

I have seasonal allergies and usually they don't bother me too much... but after a week of sneezing, coughing, and congestion I gave in and went to see a doctor. Well, what started as allergies is now a full blown sinus infection, with a side dish of migraines. Oh joy!

I am sick of being sick!
Guy (the hubby) won't let me get up to do anything...
I am going crazy!
So yesterday when he went to the store,
I slinked into the studio to finish up a few projects
and snap a couple of pictures of some work in progress to share...shh!

This is a little paper clay sculpture of my Ollie baby,
I still need to add her base with some sort of saying.

I love how she turned out,
so now I need to make one of her sister Otter baby.
I think it would be fun to offer custom mini pet sculptures like this, as one of our products.
What do you ladies think?
So many ideas never enough time...sigh!

And a sneak peak at the Trees of Glee.
These trees are made of paper pulp and paper clay with wood trunks wrapped in fabric.
They will be mounted to a decorative base.

I am really excited about these and hope to have a few finished by Sunday.

I feel so behind, I hope I have more energy soon!

Take care and don't let the Spring Bug get you too!

Ahchoo...
Mary

Tilly's New Tutu!

2009-04-20T01:40:00.003-04:00

Tilly's tutu is complete and she was happy to pose for a few quick pics !

I just love her, I can't help it she is so tiny and sweet!

She was inspired from my Bunnarina Collection I created a while back.

The collection consists of an entire alphabet of little bunnies
in toe shoes and tutus in the shape of letters.

The alphabet took for ever to paint but it has brought me lots of joy;
it has been the spring-board to many rewarding projects.

Such as Princess Babbette,
who is the prima Bunnarina and the main character in my Bunnarina
picture book I am writing and illustrating in "my spare time." lol!

And this little girls bedroom I designed.

If you would like to read more about this room and see more photos just
go here www.bloomingideasllc.com/bloomaroom.htm

While we are on a bunny theme I thought I would share this as well.

This is a photo of one of our signature Sugar Cookie Ornaments,

I played with it in Photoshop and
doubled the scalloped edge of the cookie.
Changed the colors a bit, and used a watercolor filter on it.
Then placed it onto a pink canvas background.

We are thinking of introducing a small line of greeting cards using images like this.
What do you think?
We would love your feedback on this.

Well thats all for now and I will leave you with this,

Just a snap shot of things to come in the downstairs work room.
My husbands going to freak when he sees what I have been doing to his work room!
Now that I need two separate work areas we have to share this space.

It was very uninspiring so....
well you know just some fluff here and there can make all the difference!
Tee, hee:)

Ta ta,
Mary

The Craft Cupboard Cronicles

2009-04-17T10:16:00.000-04:00

Most of the boxes have been unpacked,
and our cottage is beginning to feel more like home.

I have even had some spare time to fluff my little nook of a finishing studio.
Due to the nature of the medium I work in (paper mache) which is so dusty when sanded
I need two separate work areas.
One for messy work and one for finish work.

So here are some pics of my little nook on the first floor
and the re-purposed old pine armoire.

(CLICK ON PHOTOS TO VIEW LARGER)

This is the view from the door way.
We built the window seat ages ago but I just added the skirt.
Great for storage and it adds a nice finishing touch.
Now truth be told I don't sew....the skirt is made from two store bought curtains
attached with a ribbon that is strung across the wood seat
under the cushion.

I just put the ribbon through the rod pocket on the curtains
and slid them back towards the back of the seat until it was the right length.
Works for me!

These little chairs are just the right size for this room,
but way out of proportion with the giant armoire/craft cupboard.

I don't care their just to cute!
I found them about a year ago at an antique mall in Ohio.
I had them in my old studio and just could not part with them.

I drafted a design and handed them over to my seamstress,
I think she did a beautiful job.

The fronts or face of the top portion of the slip covers
are made from two place mats I had in my stash.

They have a pattern stitched into them reminiscent of crewel work, so yummy.

I was going to paint them but I think I will wait and see how the rest of the room shapes up.
I still want to paint a small floor cloth and that will add color.

So now on to the craft cupboard....

Almost...

Lowering the work top....

ta da!
Here is what I have done so far;

I have added an upholstered board to the inside backboard using a quilted cream fabric.
I will also be attaching painted chicken wire over the fabric
to create a display/memo surface to this area.

I covered the work surface in a floral mini print in cream and white,
and then topped that with a piece of clear vinyl for easy clean up.

Organized all my stuff,

and added some fun string lights for twinkle.

I did not care for the green electrical cord the lights came on,
so I wrapped it in fabric strips.

I filled it with some of my favorite finds and keepsakes,
like this vintage bunny vase that holds my late Nana's paint brushes.
My Nana was such an amazing artist and person, she was so inspiring. I am so thankful
to have these brushes. I have many treasures from her estate but these will always be my prize
possession. My Nana brought her beautiful dreams to life with these simple tools.
They remind me to start simple and dream big.

And some friendly faces to cheer me along as I work,

Oh, and one more thing a sneak peak at my newest creation.
Twinkle Toes Tilly The Bunnarina.
She is hiding behind the garden gate because she does not have her tutu yet.
She said, "no respectable Bunnarina would have a picture taken of them in just a leotard."

Wow I just finished making her yesterday and she is already a Diva!

As soon as I finish Tilly's tutu I will share some pics,
that is, if it's ok with her. Tee hee:)

Ta ta my lovies!
Thanks for letting me share,
Mary

Just hoppin in...

2009-04-12T20:09:00.007-04:00

Just wanted to post a little note to say...

I hope you all had a lovely holiday!

I meant to post this earlier today but was having computer issues.
So a little late is better than not at all.

Happy Easter my honey bunnies!

xoxo
Mary

On the road again!

2009-04-04T15:55:00.000-04:00

Well here we go again.

Our nephews hockey season has ended, he is back home in Sylvania, Ohio.

Guy and I... well we've packed up the studio and apartment and have moved from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

to our cottage in Indian River, Michigan which is an hour and a half to the south.

If you are new to this blog and wondering what I am talking about here is the short of it;

our seventeen year old nephew Brian has been playing hockey for forever.

Last summer he got some really big news when he tried out for a travel team

located in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich and secured himself a position on the team!

Needless to say everyone was excited about this new chapter in his life,

but none of us were real comfortable with him moving six hours away from home.

After a lot of consideration and some anxiety (actually a lot of anxiety)

Guy and I decided to move with him.

So last summer we sold our house in Sylvania, Ohio and moved to the "Soo"

that's what the locals call it.

Anyway now that hockey is over for the summer we figured we would be moving back to Sylvania.

But if we did that it would mean buying another house

and if Brian signs on with another team out of state he's going to need us.

Doesn't make much sense to buy a house in Sylvania if we are going with Brian again in the

fall. Right?

So for now we are kind of in a holding pattern living at our cottage

waiting to see what happens with this kid and his hockey career.

"Phew" I am out of breath, and out of juice from unpacking boxes and bags.

When we sold the house last summer there really was not enough time to move

so we crammed most of our stuff into the basement at the cottage and into a storage facility.

The house in Sylvania was a moose, and I thoroughly enjoyed decorating it!

I guess you could say I have a bit of a furniture fetish,

so it's time for a few yard sales, cause it's not all going fit.

Speaking of fitting, my new studio at the cottage is small and cozy just the way I like it.

I have always used a little area of this room for crafting and such

but now that I have to fit most of my supplies in here I needed to be inventive.

I found a craft cupboard online for the bargain price of $ 800.00 dollars!!!

Ya right, not!

So like my mom always said necessity is the mother of invention.

That furniture fetish is starting to pay off.

Take one old pine armoire, add a fold out desk top by Hubby Construction Co.

some plastic storage bins from Wally World and you have a craft cupboard

for around 40.00 dollars, minus the armoire of course.

But spring is here, so hit those yard sales ladies!

You never know your craft cupboard could be out there waiting for ya!

Well as you can see in these pictures we have lots work and decorating to do

so ta, ta for now my lovie's!

Mary

I Wish....

2009-03-17T21:33:00.013-04:00

I wish I were here.....

But sadly I am here,

This was the view outside our studio yesterday.

Still pretty snowy here in northern Michigan,
and there is not a lot I can do about it.

Except create art that reminds me of warmer days.
In My last post which was oh so long ago... ( I have been sick in bed with acute bronchitis for two weeks for the second time this winter!!!!)

I said I would be tackling a mirror sculpture and so I have.
I am very pleased with the image and overall scene especially the beach chairs and umbrella.
I was very hesitant to try and sculpt Adirondack style chairs
but I think they turned out pretty good.

( This might make a really cute print or greeting card...hmmm.)

I had some difficulty
with the armature I chose to sculpt on.

Medium density fiberboard also known as (mdf).

As it tends to warp as the pulp shrinks and drys; I was concerned this might happen
so to try and prevent it I sealed the mdf with varnish first,
to repel the water that would leach from the pulp.
I must have missed a spot or two...oops live and learn, oh well it will look cute in my guest room.

Now that I am finally feeling better and have had a couple of days
back to work I have a few other new pieces to share.

Another Bodda Bloom...

in yummy shades of pink, vanilla and brown.
Makes me think of cake and ice cream!
But come to think of it lots of things make me think of cake and ice cream, hee hee.

Our signature Cocoa Cottage in Buttercup yellow,
mounted to a scalloped wood plaque that is painted in fun colors, so sweet.

And some spring Birdie Sugar Cookie ornaments just in time for Easter.

All this fun springy stuff will be headed to our Etsy shop in a couple of days,
I will keep you posted.

I hope it's getting springy in your world!

Cheers,
Mary

keeping Busy

2009-02-28T11:40:00.007-05:00

( click on photo for better view)

I wasn't kidding when I said I was addicted to making these Bodda Blooms,
again I think it goes back to my dire need of spring.

It's a balmy MINUS 8 degrees outside!
So the pups and I have been indoors all morning at the studio making stuff.

The wall tile above is my latest idea incorporating a Bodda Bloom.

I love the Colors on this piece it makes me think of a little sea side cabana in Key West,
aged and weathered by surf and sun.

Here are a few more views.
To get a better look click on the photos.

Side view.

The next piece I am making is a mirror I hope it turns out well;
wish me luck and let me know what you think of the Bodda Blooms tassels and tiles.

Your thoughts and comments are most appreciated as I go through the process
of product design and development.

Thanks for letting me share,

Mary

Spring Now, Please!

2009-02-24T23:10:00.031-05:00

You know you have cabin fever when ice fishing sounds remotely entertaining!

I have cabin fever, and no I don't care how bad it gets I refuse to go ice fishing; I will go insane first!
Ah, that feels better....

It's been a long cold winter here in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan
and I think I am in need of some spring.
Since spring will not be coming here any time soon,

I decided to share some of my spring themed creations I have been stockpiling.
I was going to wait until early spring and unveil them on my Etsy store and Lollishops but I can't wait, any little glimpse of spring I can get.... I'll take.

These first two pieces were inspired by a poem I wrote called Robin's Nest,

Here is the poem.

and here are the pieces it has inspired.
( click on picture for larger view)

Spring Garland

A mixed media assemblage comprised of paper clay, wood, twig, yarn, ribbon,

hand painted, fabric, beads, buttons....you name it's in there.

I really like this piece, it even has the first stanza from the poem on it.

This piece made me think back to when I was a kid and we would vacation in Traverse City, Michigan and visit our Grandma Grace.
She lived along the west shore of Grand Traverse Bay.

I would spend hours on the shore line collecting small pieces of drift wood, pebbles, shells and whatever else I could find to make picture collages.
Gracie and my Mom would give me pieces of scrap cardboard and Elmer's glue.
I was in heaven and so were Mom and Grace;
now they could play cards without interruption... for a little while anyway.

I guess this is what started my love for mixed media and collage.
I have always admired the works of others, but never considered this a creative outlet for myself as an adult until recently.

Thanks Mom, thanks Gracie...

This next piece I created when I was invited to participate in a show called "My House"
that was hosted by Three Pines Gallery in Cross Village, Michigan last spring.

The show was inspired by Sarah Fishburn's book "In This House"
which you can check out here at Sarah's site http://www.sarahfishburn.com/

Sarah is an amazing artist and her website is bursting with beautiful art,
information and inspiration. It is well worth the trip!

This is the piece on its base, the house wraps around the tree that holds Robin's Nest.
I am not going to go into great detail about this piece because I want to dedicate a blog post
to it in the near future, so here are just a few pic's for now.

This is the base alone,

and this is a view of the house's exterior.

and a gallery shot.

Moving right along,

what would a glimpse of spring be without blooms.

Here are few that are new to the garden at Blooming Ideas.

When I first sculpted this flower my intent was to create four different blooms and use them to decorate a round mirror frame, which I still plan on doing.

But, when I gave the bloom to my husband to make a mold for me he asked if I was making more tassels/ornaments and I thought hey that would be cool too!

So here are the first few blooms fresh off the vine,

So springy, I am addicted to making these.
We will be adding these to our product line in March!

Well I am off to make some more Bodda Blooms (bodacious)....
I hope these images of spring brightened your day,
I know they did mine.

Mary

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T12:14:00.000-05:00

In honor of Valentine's Day
I thought I would share some art I have created over time that relates to the holiday because the images speak of love and friendship.

This first image is of my dear friend Sha Sha Fanelli a character I created a few years back;
in her world she is a talking poodle that lives and works in New York City pursuing a career in fashion design. Sha Sha has been patiently waiting for me to finish her first picture book.
The story is finished and all the illustrations have been drafted.....when it is polished and perfect, I plan on self publishing the book.
Hang in there Sha it's almost done!

If you would like to see more Sha Sha Stuff you can check here out on my website http://www.bloomingideasllc.com

This next image was inspire by my sweet little niece Katie Bug,
Katie you will always be my Valentine love ya kiddo!!!

This collection is my most current,
It is called Love Doves.

And last but not least this is my Valentine to all of you.... a little home built on love,
Come on in there are plenty of hugs to go around!

Have a happy day,
xoxo
Mary

Mr. & Mrs. Flake photos

2009-02-12T11:01:00.000-05:00

Here are more photos of the Flakes.....

Mr. and Mrs. Flake are finally finished!

2009-02-12T10:27:00.001-05:00

FLAKES
Originally uploaded by Blooming Ideas

Well, here is the happy couple huddled against the winter chill.
Mrs. Flake in her pink and powder blue snowflake scarf and her her hubby Francis in his straw hat with blue sash and sprig of holly for a festive touch.

It took some work to get the molding process down for these two snow people sweeties but well worth the effort I think.

These pieces are first sculpted by hand in paper mache and paper clay, from there we make a mold of the originals. Then the new pieces are cast in a paper pulp mix. Once dry the finishing process begins. Sanding,priming,painting,varnish and then embellishing.

I am so pleased with the results we are definitely adding these to our new product line.

let me know what you think we love to get feed back.

Thanks for stopping by the studio,
Mary

Blooming New Ideas In The New Year

2009-01-18T23:00:00.000-05:00

"Mary, Mary quite contrary, how does your business grow?"

"Like a garden." I've always said.

To me, the cycles in business are a lot like the seasons in a growing garden.
First come the seeds of inspiration or ideas which you plant in a fertile environment.
You cultivate and nurture this environment(in this case with advertising).
You water it a lot, with your own sweat and tears!

Then you wait, watch and pray and pray....... and pray a little more.
Then one day you start to see growth; those seeds begin to take root!
Soon beautiful blooms appear and you begin to attract others to your garden.

Seasons pass and those few seedlings are now many. The garden is lush and beautiful.
You have mastered growing and caring for these blooms, yet those seeds of inspiration keep coming and coming.

Pretty soon the garden is more like a wild jungle that needs taming!

Like any good gardener I know it is time to prune my garden.

So with a lump in my throat and an ache in my heart I bid farewell to the past seasons in my business and prepare for a new season of growth; a season of branching out and venturing down new paths. Painful, yes, but necessary if I want my business to continue blooming, and thats who we are and what we do.

We bloom ideas...hence the name Blooming Ideas LLC.

We, my husband Guy and I, have been carefully planning and cultivating our new product line for some time. Some of our new ideas have begun to bud while others are still just seeds of inspiration, but I know our dedication and enthusiasm will produce a bounty of whimsical gifts and home decor.
Being an artist, naturally I am a very visual person and when I am embarking on a new venture
instead of making a task list, I think out loud through sketches. For me this adds dimension to the abstract, making it more tangible and real.

Here is a sketch of my vision for our new garden of goodies, these are just my first ideas.

I am sure it will change over time but this visual will help make it less overwhelming.
I hope.

The first order of business is to temporarily close the garden gate (our website) while we
prune the product line to make room for the new. Once the new ideas have formed into blossoms we will reopen our garden of goodies.

In the meantime I will be periodically posting and boasting about our new designs.
Your feed back and thoughts on these new products would be most appreciated.
So please comment!

We are preparing this new line for our first trade show this summer.
It is called Beckman's Handcraft www.beckmans.com it is held twice a year once in January and then again in July.

I have attended this show many times as a buyer, but now that the shoe is on the other foot it feels very strange. I guess I can chalk it up to growing pains,
and like the old saying goes "no pain no gain."

Well thats all for now from my little corner of the world.
Take care and thanks for stopping in.

Mary

Cocoa Cottage/ Gingerbread Delight

2008-12-28T17:24:00.001-05:00

Grab a fork and a glass of ice cold milk!

Here is the newest in our Cocoa Cottage Collection this one is called Gingerbread Delight. Mrs. Gingerbread is busy inside baking while her Gingerbread man Mr."G" has been decorating their house and yard with home made frosting and sugar coated snowflakes. Even the trees are tied with a festive sash and glittery goodness, Yummy!

Mr. and Mrs. Flake

2008-12-15T14:55:00.001-05:00

Mr. and Mrs. Flake
Originally uploaded by Blooming Ideas

Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Flake! Made from paper mache and paper clay. The happy couple is paitently waiting for their molds to be made.
Once the molds are ready they will go into production and be added to the Christmas Collections of Blooming Ideas. Look for them on Lollishops.com and Etsy.com

Sold

2008-12-10T13:02:00.000-05:00

SOLD!

Yes, believe it or not we recently sold our house in Sylvania Ohio.
In less than five weeks and by owner no less.
No small miracle in this housing market......I know!
So this blog entry is a fond farewell to our yellow house on the hill, we will miss you!
Yes we will miss the house but not all the work preparing it for market, as well as the general day to day care of a very old house.

That's what first attracted us to the old gal, her age, character and charm.
Not to mention she was in dire need of some T.L.C.
which for some reason draws us like a moth to a flame.
My husband and I had already been through one major redo on our last house
and we swore we would never do it again.

Ya right! Well....she just needs some powder and lipstick, we told ourselves.
Ha, powder and lipstick?
More like a face lift!

So we hired some help and in a few short months she was looking grand,
if I do say so myself. Before we knew it four years had passed and it was moving time again.

Although the house was looking good she was still not grand enough for this painful housing market. There were still areas that needed improvement, but with so many houses for sale in our area and prices falling everyday we did not want to put more money into an already shrinking market.

That's when I got out my paint and brushes.
Ah....paint, relatively inexpensive, user friendly, instantly gratifying and truly transforming. That's just what our bathroom floor needed.... some major transformation cause it was butt ugly! Old dated worn out vinyl in a small checkered pattern, which only made the small bathroom appear even smaller. I couldn't take it any longer it had to go!

Below you will find a step by step outline of how I fixed my ugly floor along with photos.

Note about photos: In the hustle and bustle of moving I have misplaced the CD containing some key images...ugh! So two of the photos here have been altered using
Photoshop to show you the process.

Preparation:

Step 1. Clean and remove all wax residue from floor.

Step 2. Very lightly sand floor, just enough to scuff the surface. To much and you will ruin the floor. ( use a finer grit sand paper)

Step 3. Vacuum sanding dust from floor and wipe floor clean with water only. Let floor dry.

Tip: for floors with a lot of texture or pattern use a deglosser (available at most paint stores) to remove any excess gloss the sanding process may have missed. My floor was so old the finish was already worn off, so I did not have to do this step. Make sure you read manufacturers instructions carefully.

Step 4. Take a break and drink some wine or some coffee depending on your time zone. Fortunately for me I live in a wine zone. LoL!

Step 5. Tape off base molding.

Step 6. Prime floor let dry. Then very lightly sand, vacuum and prime again.
Remember this is a high traffic area and two coats of priming will ensure the longevity of your newly painted floor.

Step 7. With the second coat of primer dry you are now ready for the paint. I brushed on a golden yellow color for my first coat. I let this dry for maybe two hours.....I am a very impatient person. I recommend you let the paint cure according to manufacturers suggestions.

Step 8. For the second coat of color I cut a taupe colored latex with a glaze medium. Glaze is an additive which when mixed with paint gives the paint a transparent effect. Perfect for creating faux effects. like marble or in this case tumble stone. My floor was heavily textured so I used this to my advantage, by adding the glaze it only exaggerated the texture.

Here is a close up view of taupe color.

Step 10. Because this room was so small I used lighter colors. Once the taupe/glaze is dry I applied a whitewash layer. To achieve a whitewash cut white latex with glaze. A ratio of 1 part paint to 2 parts glaze. Using a wide brush off load your brush on a rag before applying in haphazard strokes. Then using a slightly damp rag while whitewash is still wet gently dab or pat to soften brush strokes.
Let this dry.

This is a view of the floor, showing the difference once the white wash is applied.

I know I know, hang in there we are almost done....have some more wine. LOL!

Step 11. Now to achieve even greater depth and texture I enhanced the floor with a Burnt Umber colored latex. Again I cut this with glaze which allows the colors underneath to be seen. I applied this with same technique I used for the white wash layer. This color cut with glaze is a great way to add an old world, aged effect. Perfect for a tumbled stone look.

This is a close up of the finished floor.

Step 12. Once the Burnt Umber is dry you can seal your floor with varnish.
I used Minwax Polyacrylic. Two coats of course.

And that's it!

Again I am sorry about the photos; these are the only ones I have.

Now do I recommend that you run right out and try this?
No, what I do recommend is you read up on decorative painting techniques,
faux finishes and doing several practice boards first.
On a scale from one to ten, ten being the most difficult
I would rate this project at about a six or seven.

I learned how to do this when I worked as an apprentice for a muralist. Then years later a started my own design firm where I honed my skills further. Anyone with enough patience and desire can do this you just need to practice and allow for mistakes.

Its not brain surgery but, it can be taxing. Now with that done I could focus on givin the old house a good fluff. So here is a little peek at the yellow house on the hill, or as I liked to call her The Bumble Bee House.

The following 2 photos are of the living room.

These next photos are of the dining room.

Here's the tiny kitchen
with the cozy coffee nook.

First floor sun room.

I hand painted this floor as well.

This room and my studio were my favorite rooms.
When we first moved in this room had dark paneling which we painted a lovely shade of green and then we tore out the old blue shag, yuck!

Much better......... don't you think?

On to the second floor.
This was our guest room.

Up stairs den.

Master bedroom

And last but not least my studio,
which was actually a sleeping porch before the days of air conditioning.
Remember I said this house was old, it was built in 1929. This room is very small but with windows all the way around the light was perfect for studio space.

I also hand painted this floor cloth for my studio.

Obviously I like painted floors and floor cloths.
It just adds so much for so little, and I am always having to decorate on a budget.

I miss that little shoe box of a studio.
My new studio is big, in fact there is so much room a lot of it is unused.
Hopefully I will fill that space with my creations.
Here is a photo of my new studio from the outside.
I will add more pics soon.

One of my little assistants Otter baby.

Ollie must have been on a break, but here is super cute picture of her.
She would be mad if I didn't include her in this post. You might be wondering why we moved, it's a long story so here is the short of it.
Our nephew Brian is a very talented hockey player and last spring he tried out for a travel team that is based in Sault Ste. Marie Mi.
He is only seventeen still in high school and has never been away from home before so........ my husband Guy and I volunteered to move with him. We have no children of our own so it was easy for us to make the move.

He's a great kid, and we are enjoying being with him. The three of us and the two pups are living in an apartment, that is right next to the famous Soo locks, which is the shipping channel that connects Lake Superior to Lake Huron via the St.Mary's River.
Here is a view from our apartment of some passing ships.

This first photo was from early fall.
This one is from just the other day brr....... Well I am off to the studio now, So thanks for letting me share and as always take care.

Mary

Cocoa Cottage frosted pink

2008-12-04T08:29:00.001-05:00

Cocoa Cottage frosted pink
Originally uploaded by Blooming Ideas

Here is the latest from the Cocoa Cottage series. I love making these.
The cottage is a casting from my original sculpture. My husband makes a mold of my original and then he casts the reproduction out of a special mixture of clay and paper mache. The base is wood and the trees are wood sticks, wrapped in fabric that has been painted and glittered. The tops of the trees are out of paper clay. Each tree is adorned with a hand painted paper snowflake topped with a gem. I am currently working on some other cottages, who knows maybe a whole town.

Take care and thanks for letting me share!

Mary

Making new friends...

2008-07-28T11:40:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago (I think it was on a Thursday,) my cell phone beeped with a new text message. My dear friend, Julianne was up with the sun and wanting to do something. So I called her and we decided to meet for coffee on my patio.
I had just put the finishing touches on my wood awning

( I blogged about this in an earlier post) and she wanted to see how it had turned out. By the way, Julianne is an amazing artist, she has a degree in graphic design and is an accomplished painter so I was eager to see what she had to say.

So we sat and chatted over coffee and watched the antics of my two favorite furry people, my pooches Ollie and Otter.

With coffee finished, we decided to go visit one of Julianne's favorite furry people, her gorgeous horse, Rio. So not fair!

After working with Rio for a bit we decided we needed some nourishment because our day so far was really quite hectic. LOL! Off we went to our local cafe, Chandler's.

Up to this point my day was laid back and quiet. I was totally unprepared for what happened next. Adjacent to the cafe is a lovely little boutique called Canterbury Home which is owned and operated by the very talented duo Michelle Bassett and her mom, Bev.

The shop is filled with vintage treasures in the shabby chic flavor. From hand crafted jewelry to French inspired antiques it is like a trip to the candy shop, simply scrumptious. Michelle has also been kind enough to take some of my paper mache creations on consignment.

If you can't visit her store in person you can shop the boutique online at www.canterburyhomeandgarden.com. It is definitely worth the trip.

Like I said my day up to this point was pretty normal, but when Julianne and I decided to go over to the boutique, everything changed. Michelle was just wrapping up a three day photo shoot of her home and store. It will be featured sometime after the first of the year in the national magazine Romantic Country. Wow, how awesome is that?! Trust me, I have seen pictures of her home - you won't want to miss it.

Michelle introduced Julianne and I to the magazine's editor, Fifi, or as she is known on her blog, as the Fabulous Fifi and fabulous she is. We chatted briefly and I asked her if any of the magazines she worked for featured artists. She said, "Yes" and to send her some photos of my work and she would gladly pass them on. Hurray!

Fifi asked if Julianne or I knew of anyone in the area with a shabby chic style house or studio. I was thinking to myself Julianne's house is super cute and she has an amazing studio, but before I could speak, Julianne was inviting Fifi over to my studio (stinker bell.)

This is a photo of my studio on a clean day.

Ugh! Did I mention I was goofing off all day and my house looked like a hurricane went through?! Well it did and that hurricane was me. My husband's nickname for me is Hurricane Mary. LoL. Before I could utter the words "No, my house is a disaster," Julianne, Fifi and Michelle were out the door and on their way to my messy house, ugh! I was horrified that an editor of a national magazine was on her way to my house, HELP!
(Did I mention it was messy?)

I am lucky I wasn't arrested because I broke every traffic law known to man to buy myself some time to beat them home.

Fifi took lots of pictures and answered lots of questions. She is gracious, warm, giving and a very talented lady. Her blog is beautiful and inspiring and she was kind enough to mention Julianne and I in it. She also posted some of our work and a link to my website! What a sweetheart!

Thanks again, Fifi. We will never forget the day we met you and we will forever follow your work.

Wow, what a wonderful wacky day.

Take care and thanks for letting me share,

Hurricane Mary

Her Majesty Spring

2008-06-05T12:29:00.000-04:00

In anticipation of her Majesty's arrival the tulips in my garden stand at attention, tall and proud.

In unison they bow toward the garden gate,

while the Magnolia tree releases a shower of color and aroma to line her Majesty's path.

Row after row tidy sprouts stand, shoulder to shoulder, hoping to catch a glimpse of her before she heads north.
With everyone poised and ready, the Robin welcomes her with song.

So now that spring has sprung, it's time for some outdoor decorating.
The Magnolia tree I mentioned earlier belongs to my neighbor Sarah.

She estimates it's age around forty plus years. It branches spread over our backyard patio
creating a wonderful living canopy.

This is where I have begun my garden projects.
My goal for this space is to create an outdoor dining/lounging area.
With a leafy canopy overhead for a roof I wanted to further define the space and add more privacy, so I purchased three panels of lattice in natural color.
Once the Morning Glory I planted fills in it should provide plenty of privacy and beauty.

I thought a fountain would be nice for ambiance, interest, and the birdies.
I found it at Lowes, and I love it.

I wanted to place it near the patio, but this posed a problem, no access to electricity. Solution- buy an arch and run an extension cord up and over the arch, down other side, along the fence, to the garage, where at last there is power. Yes this took some time and some wine.
I added a string of star lights and some dried grapevine for the vine to cling to.
Once this fills in it will make lovely entrance into my new dining room.
When we first purchased this house, about four years ago, I had this wood awning built on to the garage window. I think its time to come up with a design and paint it.

As soon as I paint and stuff begins to grow I will share more photos.

Happy Spring,
Mary

Hello Blog world

2008-05-28T09:38:00.000-04:00

Hi bloggers, this is my first trip into the land of blogging. I have been hearing about blogging for a while now, but have been hesitant to join. I guess my thinking was, who cares what I have to say? I mean is anybody really gonna want to know what I think or what I am doing? But, the more time I spend on the fringes, the more I feel myself being drawn back to the community, and then it dawned on me - duh! It is a community. One of the definitions of the word community, according to Webster's online dictionary is: an interacting population of various kinds of individuals in a common location. To me that's what blogging is all about, sharing, communicating,meeting and greeting...

What kinds of things will I be sharing with you?

Personal and professional design projects with step by step info and advice.

My latest paper mache pieces and new introductions to my online boutique, http://www.bloomingideasllc.com/.

News announcements, show schedules...

So thats about it for now, I just wanted to say hello.

I am starting a garden project this week, and will share posts and photos soon.

Tah,tah for now.