NewCreatioNZ

The Power of Color

2012-01-31T14:11:00.000-08:00

Just like many of you 'creatives' out there, I am fascinated with and love colour! I was excited to come across these colour symbolism and meaning charts on the ArtTherapyblog site. Colour is a powerful thing that can have great impact on our lives and is used extensively in art therapy, another fascinating and growing field. Do you have a favorite colour? Maybe now you'll realise why it attracts you!

Click on these charts to see the enlarged version.

Another year gone!

2011-12-20T16:55:00.000-08:00

As Christmas fast approaches and the year is nearing it's end, I tend to go into 'reflective' mode. My 'day job' is over for the year which gives me more time to ponder and wonder what is in store for the year to come. So many people are flat out right now, getting the shopping finished, meals prepared and it's panic, rush, panic, rush all the way! I guess its my personality but when things get that way for me I sort of close down and go into hybernation!

Our Christmas is low key, last weekend we had a meal with my inlaws, as we will be away visiting my brother in the Bay of Islands for Christmas. (Thats about 3 hours north of us in the Northern part of New Zealand). Presents are minimal, my gifts are having my son Jordan back from his studies in the South Island, seeing my daughter Robyn so filled with joy at her recent escapades in Peru and Bolivia, and watching my youngest Rosie delelop her art skills - (she won high distinction for art at school prizegiving this year! Shameless boasting, I know) Oh, and the nativity set above is a gift Robyn brought back from Bolivia that the girls at the orphanage made. I love it!

So as I look back on the past year, I see some happy times, some sad times, but all of these as blessed times. I do believe that we need to give thanks in all circumstances. For many, we have unanswered questions, but trust is the key. Knowing that God is in control and is leading us though our trials, makes all the difference. I'd like to wish you all a blessed Christmas and heartfelt thanks to my customers who give me yet another reason to create! I thought I'd leave you with a few of my memories and things I am so thankful for.

For my beautiful family, their faith and their love for each other (Jordan and Robyn pictured here right after their baptism at our local beach)

Not forgetting the pooch ofcourse.

For witnessing the coming true of dreams, in both my own and my childrens life

For the priviledge of being free to create

For my amazing trip to Fiji where I was blessed beyond words

For holiday memories

For living on the doorstep of one of the most lovely beaches ever (ok - I am biased)

Rosie's gift

2011-11-22T23:34:00.001-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I had my birthday and I have been wanting to show you the gorgeous gift my daughter (11yrs) made me. Yes, it is the decoupaged wooden cross above which she made as a school project, brought it home and kept out of my sight for a couple of months, waiting patiently for my birthday to arrive. She specially chose pictures that she knew i would love eg, horses, cats, tasteful decor etc. I was blown away, especially with the precious mummy message she wrote on the back. Am I biased or is it really amazing?

And while we are focused on Rosie, take a look at these cute Christmas origami flowers she has made. She is definitely one for detail and takes such care in her creations. I think she just might be able to make a little pocket money out of them (they're listed in my etsy shop if anyone's interested!) They look great hung on the christmas tree or strung together as a garland!

Treasure Hunt!

2011-11-08T19:37:00.000-08:00

The Promotional Frenzy team I belong to on Etsy is having a month long promotion! For the month of November, we have hidden the above picture in one of our listings (not the main picture) and when you find this treasure, you get the key to a super duper special that each shop is offering!

Please read each shop's announcement for details of whats on offer eg. Free gifts, Free shipping, BOGO’s, Coupon Codes. What an opportunity for your holiday shopping! Clicking on the above picture will take you directly to Promotional Frenzy's blog where you can read up more about these amazing deals!

Want a hot tip for finding the treasure in my shop? Here's a clue: Its in my jewelry section and its green! Now get hunting!!

BELOW IS A LIST OF PARTICIPATING SHOPS

1. Trinkets N Whatnots – www.galla15.etsy.com

Handmade Button, Crystal and Pearl Jewelry

2. Sewinggranny – www.etsy.com/shop/sewinggranny

Sewn items – baby, kitchen, home decor, holiday

3. CalliopeAZCreations – www.calliopeazcreations.etsy.com

Handmade Jewelry, Medicine Stones, Decorated Feathers

4. jQ jewelry designs – www.jQjewelrydesigns.etsy.com

Gemstone Jewelry that is Classic … with an Edge

5. KrystalsJewelry – www.krystalsjewelry.etsy.com

Intricate Handmade Jewelry of all styles for all tastes

6. Rooee – www.rooee.etsy.com

Quilts & quilted things, cloth dolls, fabric postcards

7. Painted Memories By Ros - PaintedMemoriesByRos.etsy.com

Fine Art Note Cards and Prints

8. Peelirohini – Peelirohini.etsy.com

Colorful and Unique Sterling silver , Gold fill Jewelry with Genuine Gemstones and/or Polymer Clay

9. Sunny Crystals - www.etsy.com/shop/SunnyCrystals

Crystal Tumblestones, Natural Gemtone Jewellery & Decoupage Cards plus a bit of Vintage Jewellery

10. Symbolic Imports – www.SymbolicImports.etsy.com

Handmade Bath & Body – Lip balms, Sugar Scrubs, Handmade Soaps, Perfumes & more!

11. Beautifulswagstore – www.etsy.com/shop/beautifulswagstore

hair accessories, dog toys, baby gift sets, home decor, gift wrapping

12. Bijibijoux- www.etsy.com/shop/bijibijoux

Handmade jewelry/ beads/ supplies -

13. Newcreationz – www.etsy.com/shop/NewCreatioNZ

Fine art and photography craft

14. BountyOfBeads – www.etsy.com/shop/bountyofbeads

Handmade Bead Dangle Drop Charm Sets and Trinity Brass Findings

Jewelry Making Supplies

15. Fair Lady Boutique – www.etsy.com/shop/fairladyboutique

A Beading Boutique with vintage beads + components, Czech glass, gemstones, and custom made bead mixes

16. HollysFollyGlass – www.etsy.com/shop/HollysFollyGlass

Fine and fun Lampwork Glass Beads by artist Holly Dare.

17. Glitterbird Glass – www.etsy.com/shop/GlitterbirdGlass

Home decor and jewelry made from beautiful fused glass.

18. CrochetedbyCharlene – www.etsy.com/shop/CrochetedbyCharlene

Beautiful crocheted afghans, accessories, and much more.

19. Camillescloset- www.etsy.com/shop/Camillescloset

Handmade jewelery items.

20. Prittify – www.etsy.com/shop/Prittyfy

Handmade Jewelry, Modern, Altered Art, Steampunk

21. Crystalphotography – www.etsy.com/shop/crystalphotography

Fine Art Photography Prints and Greeting Cards

22. iaFlowerPower – www.etsy.com/shop/iaFlowerPower

Whimsical Crocheted and Knitted Baby Hats and more

23. Gabby’s Quilts – www.etsy.com/shop/GabbysQuilts

Handcrafted Quilts, Tablerunners, Wallhangings and Embroidered Gifts

24. CNJ Ceramics – www.etsy.com/shop/CNJCeramics

Contemporary Clay Jewelry and Home Decor

25. LostLemonade – www.etsy.com/shop/LostLemonade

Body Care Products made to cleanse, moisturize and soothe

26. RomanticThoughts – RomanticThoughts.etsy.com

Handcrafted Jewelry, PreMade Scrapbook Pages, Vintage Items and More

27. Ooh Leela! – isabelafelix.etsy.com

Handmade dish towels and trendy accessories

28. KatersAcres – katersacres.etsy.com

Polymer Clay Creations, Trinkets, & Treasures with a Whimsical Feel

29. Magda – magdamagdaFashion.etsy.com

custom clothing, accessories and supplies

30. Ugly Duckling Beads – www.etsy.com/shop/uglyducklingbeads

Handmade glass beads, digital collage sheets, tutorials, and jewelry

31. BellaTheBead – www.bellathebead.etsy.com

Handcrafted jewelry and supplies with vintage soul

32.IdeasBloom – www.ideasbloom.etsy.com

Handcrafted decorative wreaths

33. Greenhouse Glassworks – www.greenhouseglassworks.etsy.com

Fused Glass Jewelry, Stained Glass Home Decor, and Handmade Cards and Tags

34. Five Supplies – Five0101.etsy.com

All the supplies you need to create

35. TheMayFlower Fashions – themayflower.etsy.com

Fun & Stylish Fashion Designs for Women

36. Something Wyrd- www.SomethingWyrd.Etsy.com

Handcrafted jewelry and beaded charms

37. iluvmarin – iluvmarin.etsy.com

Greeting cards, scrapbooks, cupcake toppers, & festive banners

38. Lexilouflowers – www.etsy.com/shop/LexiLouFlowers?ref=si_shop

Hair Accessories, Feather headbands, and Hair ties

39. Mt Baldy Glassworks- www.mtbaldyglass.etsy.com

fused glass jewelry and home decore

40. LexiekinPrints – www.etsy.com/shop/LexiekinPrints

Personalized, customized and Printable Invitations, tags, cards and more!

41. Turtlexiii- www.turtlexiii.etsy.com

Sterling Silver Jewelry with Swarovski Crystals and Pearls, Gemstones & more.

42. IsabellesAttic- www.isabellesattic.etsy.com

aprons, accessories, baby items and more

43. AshlynDesign – www.ashlyndesign.etsy.com

Artisan handmade lampwork beads, metal charms, and finished jewelry

44. Eveyinorbitshop – www.eveyinorbitshop.etsy.com

Mixed media art, original aceo and zines.

45. Suzie Tenzer – www.susietenzer.etsy.com

Original fine art paintings and prints

46. LindaB – www.lindab142.etsy.com

Artisan crafted beaded and wire wrapped jewelry, Jewish jewelry and accessories, wire beaded kippot

47. DellCoveSpices – dellcovespices.etsy.com

hand mixed spices, magnetic spice kits, cocktail sugars & margarita salts, organic popcorn, popcorn toppings & other treats

48. OverTheMoonGifts – overthemoongifts.etsy.com

personalized gifts, accessories, and home decor

49. Craftycreations81 – www.etsy.com/shop/craftycreations81

Peacock feather items, wedding items and items for newborns/children

50. Nan gates designs – www.nangatesdesigns.etsy.com

Fabric handbags, totes and accessories

51. ProdigyCrafts – www.prodigycrafts.etsy.com

Crocheted Clothing, Accessories and Gifts

To learn more about our team here is our page

www.etsy.com/teams/7512/promotional-frenzy-team

More Fiji Photos

2011-11-02T01:26:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is a selection of some of the scenery photos I took whilst on my Fiji missions trip. I get kind of carried away when I have a camera in my hand, hence the overabundance of coconut palms and beachy shots. I also have a new love: Tropical plants! They are so amazingly beautiful. I hope you enjoy browsing these. To see more photos you can pop over to my Flikr page. To read more about my time in Fiji, you can check out this post.

Fiji update - Just blessed!

2011-10-25T20:41:00.000-07:00

Have you ever experienced a time when you set out to be a blessing to someone and ended up being blessed out of your socks yourself? Well, that pretty much sums up my experience of my recent trip to Fiji. I blogged a couple of weeks ago about how my dream of teaching art to underprivileged kids was coming true. It is hard to put into words how my time there has opened my eyes to so many things. Not only is Fiji a beautiful country, the people there are just as beautiful! So happy, though they don't have much. So relaxed and content. The children we taught art to were so receptive and eager to learn, well behaved and respectful. My heart just melted when I saw their big smiles after completing a painting and hearing " this is a happy day in my life".

At the Christian camp we stayed at, I got to know the Fijian staff well, sharing many laughs and special moments, and needless to say, many tears on our departure. They showed us around Suva (the capital) and took us on a fabulous mountain walk to a waterfall only the locals know about. What a priviledge! And the depth of their faith is admirable. They trust in God with an unwaivering faith, knowing that He will provide.

The Fijian people have so much for us to learn. To live simple lives, day by day and not worry about the future but just enjoy today. Even the stray dogs were laid back. One dog used to follow us down to the beach everyday and wade around in the shallows looking for fish! Every day, after our hot day of teaching, we would relax with a swim which was bliss!
Below is a quick snapshot of my time there. For more photos, especially scenery shots that you know I can never resist, come over to my Flikr page.

Learning some drawing skills.

Combined effort in poster making.

Their singing was out of this world!

Some focused teenage students

But they were never short of a laugh!

Concentration

Proud of their work!

We were treated to some dancing on our last day.

And presented with a lei.

Next week I'll post some of my scenery and food market shots.

Do you have a dream?

2011-09-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

I'd like to share with you some exciting happenings I have encountered over the past couple of months. The first was when a group of friends and I sat down together and decided to put our dreams down on paper - a visual representation of the direction we saw ourselves to be heading. It's not something I find myself thinking about much, what with busy schedules and hectic deadlines, it leaves little time for reflective thought. So here I was, with a blank sheet of paper in front of me, wondering what on earth I was going to fll it with. But, you know, when you stop and wait and listen, God reveals things that are buried deep down within you. The desires of your heart that you were not even conciously aware of. I started thinking of my passions, what I love to do and how I would love to share them with others, especially those that would not normally have the opportunuty within their grasp. I started cutting images out of magazines and put together this collage of my dreams.

I want to do art. I want to share it with others. I want to enable those that do not have the opportunity to do art - where ever they may be. I want to point them towards their Creator and for them to know that they are creative beings, made in His image and loved beyond any kind of earthly love they could imagine.

And then about a month ago, an amazing thing happened. Another friend of mine, happened to mention to me that she was looking for some more people to join her and others on a missions trip to Fiji where the focus was to take art into the schools there! Well, my heart started beating fast - I knew this was for me. Teaching children from ages 5 right up to 18, who have never even had the opportunity to hold a paint brush before makes my heart skip! After nervously mentioning it to my husband and expecting a 'no' due to all the obstacles that loomed, I was delighted when he said 'ofcourse, and I'll come with you"! And by the way, all those obstacles are slowly disappearing - things are falling into place and we are well on our way to raising the funds to get there. So forgive me if over the next three weeks, I can't contain myself and get carried away with the excitement of this all. We leave on the 8th of October and will be away for 2 weeks.

Oh, and did I mention that my 19yr old son Jordan has just got back from a missions trip of his own. He went to Fiji too but with a group from the university he attends. And my 18yr old daughter Robyn is off to spend 2 weeks helping out in a Bolivian orphanage in November. Do I see a pattern here?

The Eagle

2011-08-23T22:09:00.000-07:00

Below is a devotion that I gave at the school I work at. Some of my online friends have asked that I show it to them, so what better place than my blog. I have also included the painting I was inspired to create. Hope you like it!

One of my favorite symbols in the Bible is the eagle. An incredible creation of God that He describes in an incredible way for us.

Did you know that we were made to fly? To fly like an eagle? I am not suggesting that we should all have wings growing out of our backs. But remember yourself as a child. Was not one of your longings to be able to fly, to lift off and soar like a bird? It's our longing for freedom...

Isaiah 40:31, "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
The "Overcoming" this scripture talks about, gives us a picture of how we are designed to live. It means freedom from self, freedom from our circumstances and freedom from others' responses. Our souls were made to live in the upper atmosphere. Our eyes were made to look down from these heavenly heights. Trials assume a very different aspect when looked down on from above. Our soul is powerless to overcome trials, sorrows and temptations on the earthly plane. What seems like an impassable wall on it's own level, becomes an insignificant line when viewed from heavenly places. When the soul has mounted on wings into the clear atmosphere of God's presence, these troubles will lose their power to harm or distress us.
Scripture often refers to the eagle as a symbol of the renewing process. Psalm 103:5 says that "our youth will be renewed like the eagle." The eagle is the only bird whose whole physical strength is literally renewed after each molting season. In other words, only after the eagle has "put off" his old feathers, so to speak, does he actually receive "new" physical strength to soar above his enemies."Youth" here in this scripture, could be understood as the "original image" that God created us to have - His Love, His Wisdom and His Power. As we renew our minds, just as the eagle's feathers are renewed, we will receive his strength and be transformed back into God's image, which is what God intended for us all along.
Another reason I think God uses the eagle as a symbol of our renewal and transformation is because the eagle again comes from the only bird family that has "telescopic sight," a kind of "zoom-in” focus lens. An eagle can search out objects literally miles away (indistinguishable to the human eye). They can see a rabbit from over a mile away. This, of course, increases their ability to judge and discern the true situation.
It's the same with us. Our minds, when renewed by God's Spirit, have the same supernatural ability. We are able to judge, discern and pick up things that the natural eye (natural mind) would never be able to see or understand. We are given the supernatural wisdom and ability to discern the true situation and see everything that happens to us from God's vantage point.
It is a blessing that God arranges things in our lives that teach us to fly like the eagle. One such way is seen in Deuteronomy 32:11 where it says: like an eagle that stirs up its nest and hovers over its young, that spreads its wings to catch them and carries them aloft.

When the mother eagle feels they are ready, she teaches her young ones to fly by stirring up the nest and making it so uncomfortable that they are forced to leave it and commit themselves to the unknown world of the air outside. They of course resist it because of the fear of the unknown, but they must put their trust in their mother as they take their first leap of faith. The mother spreads her wings to catch them and carries them aloft should they need it. Once airborne, they realize what they were born to do. And just so God does with us. He stirs up our nest or uncomfortable situation, and pushes us over the edge - forcing us to fly – exactly what we were born to do. And once airborne we look down from Gods perspective, and find ourselves in a peaceful resting place and able to see things as they truly are. And so with this in mind, we can accept with thankfulness, every trial that compels us to use our wings, growing them strong and fit for the highest flying, whilst being transformed and renewed by Gods mighty power.

Nows the time to buy!!

2011-08-02T20:17:00.000-07:00

Wow - there's lots of exciting stuff going on at the moment! For the full month of August an Etsy Team I belong to (Promotional Frenzy Team) is having a MEGA PROMOFRENZY SPECIAL. There a tons of shops offering amazing deals and you'll find a list of them here I myself am offering 20% off my entire shop. You'll get a free gift with your purchase and any purchases during the month of August will go into a draw for a $10 voucher from my shop! Just use coupon code FRENZYSPECIAL at checkout to claim your discount.

Whats making this even better is that this team sale is perfect timing for me to raise funds for my next bit of exciting news: Just a week ago, I got to join a group thats planning a mission trip to Fiji where we will be taking over art equipment and teaching children there the joys of art making. I am so excited as this is exactly where my passion lies, especially to be able to share it with underpriviledged kids and teens. So I would be most grateful if you would take the time to come and browse through my shop, with the view of perhaps doing some early Christmas shopping! I am listing everyday so come back often!

If you would prefer to buy through my Artfire shop, you will get the same discount using coupon code MISSION20.

Below, I have listed some examples of shops that are taking part in the team specials. Be sure to check them out too!

TurtleXIII

IdeasBloom

CrystalPhotography

BabyPenguinCreations

ImpactJewelry

Inspired to create more pendants!

2011-07-13T00:35:00.000-07:00

I have been motivated to make more jewelry pieces since being encouraged by my recent poll. These will all be listed in my shop soon but feel free to contact me through my Etsy or my Artfire store if you want to know more! Hope you enjoy checking them out!

Promotional Frenzy Team in Top10 contest!

2011-06-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

There's a new site called Handmade Top Ten List recently started by the same Etsy seller who runs the very well know website, Handmadeology! Tim has announced the very first Etsy Team Challenge designed to give Etsy Teams more exposure and give them a chance to win an advertising package worth $450.

The Promotional Frenzy Team, of which I am a member, has gotten on the bandwagon in a big way and we're definitely rocking out The Vote.

We would love all the support we can get so please come check out some of the items from our members, and be sure to visit our Voting page by clicking on "A Handmade Top 10 List" in the rust-colored box below. From there you can 'Like' us on Facebook ...

Customer Survey + prize!

2011-06-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to announce the winner of my giveaway! Congratulations to

MoanasUniqueDesigns

I hope you enjoy browsing through my shop and choosing something extra special with your voucher!

A big thank you too to everyone who took the time to participate in my survey and give me some valuable feedback!

Hi everyone! I am doing a spring clean of my shop and I am wanting some input from my lovely friends - thats you! I have this dilemma of being inclined to fill my shop with what I love to create as opposed to what customers love to buy. I know I have to find a balance there. Although everything in my shop is related to my passions of painting and photography, I have the suspician that it all starts to look like a bit of a jumble! What do you think? Should I have more than one shop to cater to the variety I love to produce? If you are not familiar with my shop, feel free to take a peek. I have catagorized my shop sections and listed them on the left and would so appreciate you taking the poll as to which catagories you would be most likely to buy from. You can check more than one box if you wish.
Please leave a comment below with any constructive feedback you would like to offer or what you think I should make more of and in return you will be entered into a prize draw for a $10 voucher to my store! I will be drawing the prize on the 1st of July 2011!

2011-05-17T22:20:00.000-07:00

A few of weeks ago I entered my 11 year old daughter's painting 'Forgive each other' in my CAST teams inspirational art contest. Well, Rosie was so amazed to get any votes (though I keep telling her she's a great artist!), let alone get the fourth highest votes.

But here's my real reason for the post. She was the lucky recipient of a prize from ZudaGay - a VERY talented polymer clay artist! Not only did she send the featured prize of a beautiful sunflower necklace, she also included a sweet pair of rose earings. So very generous!

The quality is amazing - such detail and so perfect! Please take the time to visit ZudaGay's etsy shop and leave a comment. I'd love this to be a wonderful encouragement for her, and Rosie and my way of saying thank you to her.

You can also find her here:

http://www.clayinthehands.blogspot.com/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/zudagay/

http://www.pbase.com/zudagay
http://www.zglimited.etsy.com/

I'll leave you with some more samples of her work!

I'm a blessed mother!

2011-05-10T22:39:00.000-07:00

When a 19 year old son gives a mum a card full of reasons why she is so special to him, plus a drawing he's done specifically because he knows she loves art, it makes her heart melt!

And when her daughters don't let her get up before serving her breakfast in bed (pancakes and coffee), knowing that she loves to be treated this way, she is awestruck at how blessed she is to have such treasures in her life.

()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()

My 18 year old daughter asked me on Sunday, what I like most about having children and it really got me thinking. There were some cute and funny ideas I came up with straight away, like, having someone to cuddle, someone to laugh with, someone to test my patience with etc. But the more I thought about it, the more I realised that there is one thing that beats them all. It is something basic that every human being needs and thrives on: To love and be loved - unconditionally. My children are the object of my love - something (or someone) to pour out my love on, which is what I was created to do. I remember giving birth to my son, my firstborn and being overwhelmed by the love I felt when I held him in my arms - the kind of love I had never known before. I can only explain it as a miniscule version of how God must feel about us - the object of His love.

I know they look a bit cold, but this is my brood, right after the oldest two chose to be baptised at our local beach back in January.

In case you had any doubts....

2011-05-04T00:05:00.000-07:00

This week I thought I'd list some feedback I have had from customers. Its always good to know that what I am creating is appreciated by others. That is part of what drives me to create. The great thing about positive feedback is that it puts prospective buyers (like you!) at ease too!
If you have time, I would also appreciate comments on what you love best in my shop. This will help me focus on whats important to my customers! Thanks and enjoy!!

Beautiful!! I am overjoyed!! These were customized with my shop name on them -even color coordinated with the graphics and flower photos on each box! They are just lovely - Jocelyn is such a joy to work with - highly professional, friendly and so very gifted! My highest recommendation to this seller!! She has such a lovely selection of items in her shop - please have a look!! You will be exceedingly please with any purchase from her !! Thank you so much Jocelyn! A++++++

Positively stunning. More beautiful than your wonderful photos portrayed. I am over the moon excited. They are already framed in a triple frame and hung on the wall. Well packaged for the trip across the pond. Thank you so much.

I don't even know how to adequately describe these beautiful, beautiful and extraordinarily unique cards. They are simply each a work of art. The photos themselves are collectible - they are that lovely - and the cards just add to the "collectibility" of her artwork. These are not just any cards - they are each hand crafted and signed. In addition - they are not printed - they are INDIVIDUALLY hand made - each photo is cut to a specific size, and a beautiful coordinating mat is cut, then both are artistically and beautifully placed on the white card. Just lovely - more than a card - they are small art gifts to give or keep - and are frameable as well. Uniquely lovely - they arrived with a satin ribbon neatly tied, with the lovely logo tag of her shop - these are so wonderful to give as gifts, or for yourself. My highest recommendation to NewCreatioNZ and these beautifully made 3D cards. Thank you!

Beautiful workmenship - a perfect stocking stuffer for my daughter

These are wonderful! I know just what I will put in each one and hang on the tree! Amazingly quick shipping!

Super fast shipping, even over seas! Beautiful card, so pretty I'm afraid to sign the inside and give it as a gift! I would love to frame it and keep it for myself. :)

Arrived quickly & safely this morning. All ready in use in room overlooking Wellington harbour. Very happy. Exactly what I was looking for, beautifully packaged & really friendly communication. Thank you!!

GORGOUS Print! Looks fabulous on wall, and SUPER fast shipping!

These are wonderful. I have received so many compliments on them when I put them on an envelope of a card.♥

Amazing service and Amazing photo! The quality was even better than I expected and my boyfriend loved it! Definitely two thumbs up! Thank you so much!

Extremely quick and fantastic quality. Thanks for making my first purchase here, a breeze! Will be back to order more :-)

Absolutely beautiful!! Thank you so much! They will be perfect for my holiday jewelry!!

Inspirational Art!

2011-04-09T02:57:00.000-07:00

"Forgive Each Other"

My 10 yr old daughter, Rosie's work of art. Perfect for Easter, don't you think?

The CAST team on Etsy that I belong to has an inspirational art contest going on at the moment. Those that have entered have put a lot of thought and prayer into their items so I trust that you will be inspired by what you see! Please come along here to view all the entries and to place a vote on your favourite.

The Oak Tree

2011-03-29T20:00:00.000-07:00

This post is in response to the photo challenge I set for myself where I asked friends to suggest topics for me to shoot. Well, after much deliberating over all the fantastic ideas they gave me here, I decided to take up the challenge of showing you all what my take on life is, thanks to the suggestion from Elemenopie Designs who will receive a free print from me in return. It may seem kind of strange but I am comparing life to an oak tree! In its beginnings an oak tree starts off as a small acorn, a seemingly insignificant thing, dropped to the ground, maybe trampled, covered over with dirt. but within its makeup, it contains the DNA for amazing things, for huge growth. Even under the harshest conditions, the acorn will start to sprout, sending up it's new branches and sending downwards its strong roots, so that come wind or storm, sun or drought, it will stand strong. As it is nurtured by its Maker, it roots will reach deep and its wide branches will be there for those in need, providing shelter and protection.

So, I believe, it is with life. We too have within us the potential for great things. Some of us get off to a rough start but all of us, without exception, have been given the gift of love. As we send down our strong roots, we are grounded in the knowledge that we are incredibly loved by our Creator, secure in the assurance that come what may, we are rooted and secure on solid ground. And in return, we can offer those around us a safe haven under our branches, to protect, to shelter and to love.So I would once again like to thank Nikki from Elemenopie Designs for this inspiring topic to try and capture! I have had a great time finding the bestest and most magnificent oak tree I could, as well as one that was carrying acorns! If you have a moment, do take the time to pop into Nikki's shop - she has the most cutest little girlie things over there - you won't be sorry you did!

My "workspace"

2011-03-23T00:02:00.000-07:00

Well, here goes. In my dreams I have an ideal workspace, a studio, a loft, somewhere just for me. But alas, that is a dream, so here is the reality: I work where I can, when I can.

It may be the office,

it may be the dining room table,

it may even be outside on the deck if the weather is good (my favourite place to paint!)

I figured if I wait for my perfect space I will be missing out on a whole lot of creating! My poor family puts up with me. I seem to leave a trail behind me and more often than not the table is too full of paint and brushes for us to be able to eat at it!

Ok, ok, gently now.... this photos the 'in progress' one!

Thank you for an amazing response!

2011-03-20T23:35:00.000-07:00

Wow - and I'll say it again, wow! The suggestions you all came up with for my photography challenge below, were incredible. Talk about food for thought! And what a difficult task I have had choosing one! I have spent this past week mulling over them, forming ideas, imagining the finished product and generally getting very excited. It's as if I have just started out on a photography course and you my 'tutors' have set me an assignment!

But... I did promise I would choose one and that I did, after much deliberation. I have decided to go with Elemenopie Designs suggestion: To portray what 'life' means to me. As she says, I can go so many ways with that. You'll have to check back to see what I come up with! So a big congrats to our winner: Elemenopie Designs!
But I have been so impressed and inspired by all of your suggestions that I want to give them all a go! Once I have completed Elemenopie's challenge, I plan to work my way through the rest of the list. Don't hold your breath, as this may take me quite a while but when I do complete any, I will either post it here, or list it in my store (or both) and give the story and 'credits' to whoever gave me the inspiration in the first place.

In the meantime, the pictures I have included here, are ones that were suggested and that I already have on hand. They are not listed in my shop yet so if you are interested in purchasing any, just contact me or leave a note in the comments. Enjoy!

Wrought Iron fence - One of My Saviors ideas

Pure Joy - Thanks to Leah R Hood's idea

Glitterbird Glamour liked the idea of birds - ok, I know that this emu is an oversized bird....I am still searching for my little fantail pic!

LB Toyos loves sunsets!

Leafy ferns - Terra Verde's idea - Lots more to choose from Angela!

Lissie suggested 'Friendship'

Bounty of Beads idea was 'Tranquility'

Lord of the Rings trees - idea from JQ Jewelry - You'd love the Pohutakawa trees in New Zealand, Jill!

Ducks - one of the ideas from LindaBs Jewelry

Time for a photography challenge!

2011-03-16T00:20:00.000-07:00

Have you ever got to the point where you have that "been there, done that" feeling? Well I have decided I need a challenge and it involves you! In the coming week, I want YOU to give me subject matters to photograph! In the comments below give me a challenge to go capture and I will choose the one that is just right. i.e. something I havn't done before, thats a challenge, but that is still feasable. Obviously if one of you optimistically requests a photo of the Himilayas, as much as I would love to go there and snap away, I can't, so thats not going to be chosen! I reserve the right to choose which ever subject matter best suits my desires/whim! And here's the reward! The person whose challenge I take up will get from me: A FREE PRINT OF THE RESULTING PHOTOGRAPH or a print of choice from my shop.

By next Wednesday the 23rd March, providing I have enough response, I will have made up my mind and will post here who the winner is.

I have my camera in hand and I am itching to get going!

Pendant Joy! And celebratory Special!

2011-03-01T22:15:00.000-08:00

Well, here they are! My first few pendant necklacess have been listed! And what a buzz. I have so enjoyed making them and have been so excited to see how they turned out. I have included some here for you to see. Some are linked to my shop and others on their way. Any of my photo prints or art prints can be used. You can browse my photo section or have a look through my Flikr to see if there are other pictures you would like. I am happy to do custom orders. I would love some honest, constructive feedback!

And on another very happy note, I am very pleased to announce that I have reached my goal of 100 sales in my Etsy shop! A huge thank you to all who have supported me! As a token of thanks and celebration I am offering a special 20% dicount on anything in my shop for the next 7 days! Just use coupon code 100SALES at Etsy's checkout.

Coming soon!

2011-02-15T21:26:00.000-08:00

I constantly have ideas whirling around in my head on new practical ways to use my photography and paintings. They brew in my mind for a while, then I choose the photos, or prints of my paintings, fiddle around with my design, tweek them again and again and finally make the prototypes.

I am itching to show you and tell you about my next major development but I can't.....not yet. I want to surprise you - so watch this space!

What I have come up with in the meantime, is a new style of magnetic bookmarks. These are great as little extras to include with a gift or for you sellers out there, theres a perfect space on the back where I can add your shop name (in place of mine) so you can use them as a promotional tool and give as a little thank you to your customers. I am offering great discounts for bulk orders!

I sense the signs of Spring!

2011-02-03T15:30:00.000-08:00

New life, new beg...

Curated By: newcreatioNZ

ArtFire.com

Fine Art Paintings

Introducing Calliope AZ Creations!

2011-02-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

Marianne from CalliopeAZDesigns has been designing jewelry for 15 years now and has exquisite items in her shop! Her work ranges from high end, elaborate beaded jewelry to decorated rocks and desert driftwood and is delightfully unique.

Not surprisingly, her work has been featured and sold at museums and galleries in California and Arizona. Below are some of my favourites but she has many more - please do take a peek at her shop. You will not be disappointed! You can find out more about Marianne on her Blog

I love daffodils!

2011-01-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

Can you feel it in the air? Spring is on it's way. Sooner for some perhaps than others but it WILL come! For me, daffodils speak of Spring itself. The way they burst forth with new life every year is incredible to me. Like God speaks to them and says: Now is your time to shine!

Below is a study of some varieties I photographed that I intend to make into all sorts of useful items like coasters, bookmarks, note books, jewelry, stationery and more! What I'd like you to do is tell me which photo is your favourite. Just jot down the number in the comments and you'll make me happy! Thank you!

5. 6.

7.
8.

Winter woolies by Andrea!

2011-01-22T19:04:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to Andrea of Andrea Designs!

She has the most amazing shop on Artfire that is filled with very hard to resist scarves, jackets, capelets, felted jewelry and more! She is a super kind person too, always willing to help others and runs a guild on Artfire to help promote sellers called Artfire Crazy Train where she is continually promoting new sellers. Please have a closer look at her beautiful items below and visit her shop to see her other stunning creations.

Take a look at Cool Kid Designs!

2011-01-18T22:16:00.000-08:00

Today I would like to introduce you to Katie of CoolKidDesigns - an avid crafter and friend from my Promotional Frenzy thread on Etsy. Her shop is filled with amazing wallets and card holders. They are unique in that she has made them out of duct tape, so not only are they fashionable but durable too! Take a look at the selection below and please pop over to her shop for a closer look!

I'm Jocelyn......

2011-01-11T23:01:00.000-08:00

I was talking to someone yesterday and realized that whilst we crafters do get to chat and know each other's gifts and talents, there is a lot that is missing, so I thought I would share with you a 'little' bit of me. I could write a book but I won't subject you to that!

1. I grew up in Cape Town, South Africa.
2. I lived for my horses.
3. I used to be a travel agent.
4. I spent three years travelling Europe, UK and US
5. I realised being a christian was a relationship with Jesus, not a religion
6. My husband and I got married after three months of dating.
7. After 20 years I am still happily married with three children 19,17 and 11yrs.
8. My husband, I and kids went to New Zealand for three weeks and never left. We still live there.
9. I work with special needs kids.
10. I never seem to have enough money for my wants but all my needs are provided for.
11. I have parachuted 3 times. (insane, I know)
12. I am hopelessly addicted to photography, painting and everything related.
13. I want to go on a canal cruise through France one day.
14. I am looking forward to being a grandmother.
15. I am a chronic procrastinator.

Oh.... and this is Jack below.

My first artfire collection!

2010-12-29T22:01:00.000-08:00

New Beginnings

Curated By: newcreatioNZ

ArtFire.com

Craft Supplies

Using her talents!

2010-12-16T19:01:00.001-08:00

I couldn't resist showing you all my creative little girls efforts in icing our Christmas cake. She wouldn't let me in the kitchen till she was finished. Despite my apprehension, I think she did a great job. Well done Rosie!

Spring cleaning now?

2010-12-13T12:42:00.001-08:00

I am wondering if anyone else's organizational skills are similar to mine. If they are, you will let piles build up, not put things back where they came from, keep saying to yourself you really should do something about the mess and generally try to funtion in a state of chaos. Well, now that I have finished work for the year, I am putting my foot down and have decided that my house (and office/studio in particular) are in dire need of a sort/throw out/ organise etc. So many things get ignored during the year, due to busyness, so now is my chance for a spring clean. You may be thinking....is she crazy? at this time of year? But I am pleased to say that all my Christmas shopping is under control. Just a couple more things that I am making for family and I'm done. Today is the kids last day of school so we are looking forward to a restful (after the spring clean!) break.

I am embarrased to show you but I need to get it out there and off my chest: Below are the before photos and after that, the almost after photo of my office, come studio. I say that because I am not quite there yet, but almost! You may wonder where I do my painting. Well, as I don't have the privilege of a purpose built studio, I share my space with my family, or should I say, they share their space with me! I paint where ever there's a spare surface!

Christmas is around the Corner!

2010-12-05T14:58:00.001-08:00

Christmas is fast approaching. Too fast for me, I think. I have had my last day at work for the year and am looking forward to a great summer relaxing at home and at the beach. Family is coming to stay this weekend and the kids are finishing up at school and uni. I am getting my last orders off this week to meet the postal deadlines for arriving before Christmas. For those that want to get in quick, or like to think ahead to next year, I am offering my whole Christmas section at 40% off in my Artfire shop, using the coupon code CHRISTMAS12.

I wish you all a 'peaceful' lead up to Christmas and that preperations go smoothly as you remember what our joyful season is all about.

Here are some other great Christmas creations from some Etsy friends.

We have a winner!

2010-11-13T20:28:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce the winner of my card giveaway is Felicity Lingle! Well done and I hope you enjoy your cards!

Thank you everyone who took the time to enter and browse through my shop. Maybe next time it will be be you!

Christmas blessing

2010-10-27T23:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever spent an evening with a group of special friends doing something that makes you feel like you are the most blessed person in the world? Well I recently went along to a card making session with some friends and had an amazing time. A mutual friend of ours has the most incredible studio full of all sorts of heavenly card making goodies. She treated us like royalty, offering us little kits to make or to just to help ourselves to ANYTHING in her studio, giving tuition where needed. To top it off she provided coffee and muffins for us! She says its a business but really, I think it's a ministry as she fed our souls to the brim!

Above are a few of the cards I made.
I would like to pass on the blessing to others, so I'm giving away two of them! Just leave a comment below to go into the draw.

For one more entry just stop by one of my shops ( newcreationz.etsy.com or newcreationz.artfire.com ) and post your favorite item.

For two more entries purchase from either of these shops and note your transaction in the comments.

Remember to leave an email or your shop contact so I can get hold of you incase you win!

Entries close Friday 12th November (my birthday!)

Mist

2010-10-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

Mist is the next theme for the Aceo challenge that I can't resist taking part in. This time, I'll take the route of photography instead of brush and paint. Do come along and have a look at all the entries. Voting starts on October 24th!

2010-09-28T19:35:00.001-07:00

A very talented designer, Janet from Galla15 on Esty is having an amazing giveaway on her blog. Above is an example of one of her amazing Swarovski rings. If you like the look of it then be sure to get on over to her giveaway and enter before its too late. Giveaway ends 30 September!

2010-09-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

The following are a couple of designs I have put together for the Aceo challenge site's badge challenge. Feel free to come and check out all the designs and put in your vote!

2010-09-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

Spring is here!!

2010-08-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

This may sound like the wrong way round to many of you, but here in New Zealand we have just come through a long winter and today, the 1st of September, is the first day of Spring. I am so excited! I love Spring. It is like a new awakening, to see the days getting longer, the cold nights getting shorter and the birds and buds all seem to be celebrating the gift of a new day! And to top it all, my daffodils have just started flowering!

Life is such a blessing - I have been inspired to create some colourful friendly, encouraging cards that I hope you will like. Below are a couple of samples.

The perfect packaging box

2010-08-21T01:22:00.001-07:00

I am excited about my latest range of packaging boxes. The above pyramid box is my favorite. You can check it out here. To give a gift is wonderful, and to enclose it in a special box is a great finishing touch. Ok, I may be biased, but if I got a gift packaged in one of these, I would think the giver really cares. Wouldn't you?

Lucky day for Rosie!

2010-07-17T21:40:00.001-07:00

One of my wonderful Etsy friends is amazingly talented! Well , I have been fortunate enough to have a taste of her beautiful craftmanship by winning one of her little creations. Her shop is called LyonsDenCreations and is definitely worth taking a peek at. I have decided to give my prize to my 10 year old daughter Rosie, who is mad about her shop. She has gone to the trouble of finding out what Rosie likes, her favorite colours, etc. And here it is: a teddy in a blue dress with silver trim, eating icing off a cupcake in a lime green wrapper with sprinkles on it! Don't you love it too? LyonDenCreation's work is impeccable - of very high quality and I can highly recommend her!

My Aceo Challenge

2010-07-17T01:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, I couldn't resist. My aceo etsy team-mate, AlwaysArtistic is holding a challenge and it's a cracker: Long Legs! So I decided to give it a go for a bit of fun. First I thought of a cute pose with a giraffe drinking at his waterhole.

Then I thought of pink flamingos, which I love.

And, seeing we are allowed three entries, I thought I'd do a take on the flamingos and create an abstract theme. This was the result:

If you are not sure of what an aceo is, it's a piece of miniature art, any media, that measures 2.5" x 3.5". Come and look at the other entries and cast your vote here.

Some new and talented friends!

2010-07-09T21:15:00.001-07:00

I feel so blessed. I live so far away from most of you but it truly doesn't feel like that. When we chat away together, it's as if we are close by, that's how wonderful my online community of talented friends are! I want to show some of them off, so please do come along with me and take a stroll through their shops - you may find something you like!!

This is a sample of their work:

Come show off for free!

2010-06-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

I know that we can all do with a bit of help when it comes to spreading the word about our shops so I have come up with a plan that will benefit us all! It took me a while but I have finally finally figured out how to make a shop button with the html code beneath, thanks to a site called e-how that helped me along the road. If it doesn't work for you, just do a search - there are plenty of places that offer help. So, my idea is that we do a swap. You copy my code (you can find it below my logo on the left sidebar). Go to your blog, customize, layout, add a gadget, and paste my code into HTML/Javascript - then save. It should appear in your sidebar. Send me your code in the comments section here or convo me through my Etsy shop and I will place your button on my blog, for all to see!

And as you may have noticed, I never like to post without a picture, so thought I would introduce you to my latest set of coasters. I love making these and choosing which of my photos would make a good selection. Hope you like them too!

My first treasury creation

2010-04-24T18:16:00.000-07:00

Well, I have finally given treasuries a go. I never could seem to get it together waiting for the right time to get a main or treasury west together, but now I have treasury east out my disposal, its a whole different story. I am a believer in encouraging others and know the value of lifting others up when they are low, so I thought I would find a selection of uplifting beautiful encouraging items, put them together in one place and share the joy! What do you think? I feel better already!

(Click on the treasury image and it will take you to the live treasury where you can click and check out each shop to your hearts content!)

2010-04-06T17:32:00.000-07:00

As you may know, I am always on the lookout for new ways to use my photography, so you can imagine my delight when I discovered a talented Etsy seller, who wanted to use my photos in her shop. I would like to introduce you all to SovereignSea. She works miracles with my photos and has created some beautiful pieces of jewelry. Do come take a look through her shop as she has lots of treasures you are sure to love. And don't forget to heart her - you will want to keep up with her ever-changing inventory!

I've Been Pondering....

2010-03-04T20:37:00.000-08:00

It's been a year now since I started this blog and my online Etsy shop, and I have to say it has 'changed my life', as the cliche goes, allbeit in some unexpected ways.

Online selling was a new experience for me. I had previously been selling my paintings and photographs at local exhibitions and by word of mouth. The more I learnt about how Etsy and online selling worked, the more excited I became, dreaming of being able to quit my day job and becoming a self supporting artist. However, as reality set in, I thankfully came to realise that my place on Etsy was not all about making money or becoming a 'business success'. Though I do get a thrill when something sells, it gives me the most pleasure to know that something I created has touched someones heart, kinda like a 'God thing'. Everything I make is prayerfully created and so I wait with patience to see who God brings to my shop. As I use my gifts, my prayer is that my works may be a blessing to others, just as I am blessed in the joy of creating. Wow - what a privilege to be in such a position!

The other surprise blessing I have discovered over the past year are the wonderful people I have met online through Etsy. I hope some day we may meet in person - though I know, I do live so far away! The friendliness, helpfulness and support have blown me away. I have made some wonderful friends that are ready to help and pray at the click of a button!

So as I continue to juggle my days between work and family and housekeeping and creating and the miriad other things that crop up, know that I am so grateful to all of you out there. I have learnt so much and am having the time of my life!

By the way, the two paintings you see are my favorite easter creations. The originals are no longer available but I plan to make these available in card form in time for Easter, so if you are interested, send me a little convo though my shop or comment below so I can list one on specially for you!

2010-01-21T11:55:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let all you followers know that a wonderful Etsian, Anna, from AmilieJo has featured me on her blog. I'd love you to go on over and check it out. Also I'm doing a giveaway there so go for it! The above Aceo sized photo is what's up for grabs!

Yay! We have a winner!

2009-12-01T10:11:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled to announce the winner of our draw for the "Peace starts with a Smile" challenge. It is T.C. of Totally Crosses Congratualations to you! It has been so exciting seeing the range of different items coming in. You are all very creative! And thanks goes to our Creator who is our maker and the giver of our creativity! I am so looking forward to making the custom picture for TC. Thank you so much to everyone who entered.

I have included a picture of the item Totally Crosses entered. Absolutely stunning! Do go and look at her shop to see what other treasures she has. The other picture is my Rosie doing the honours of picking the winner!

2009-11-15T19:22:00.000-08:00

Time for a challenge

I am excited to offer you my very first challenge. It all started when I came accross the saying "Peace starts with a smile". It inspired me to make the above aceo and I wondered how many others of you out there would be able to come up with something related to Peace, after all, we could all do with a little of that in our lives! So here's the challenge. Send me your link in the comments below to your Peace creation. (I am giving you two weeks to enter incase you are starting one from scratch) It can be any medium, from jewelry to painting, pottery to sewing, it's your choice, as long as it 's theme is Peace. I will need the entries by the 30th November. There will be a draw from all the entries for a prize of a custom photo canvas made by me. I will ask the winner to email me a photo of their choice which I will then prepare into a photo canvas similar to the ones below. Just click on the photos below to take you to my shop where you can read more about them.

I thought I would share with you this lovely poem that was presented to my 17 year old son Jordan on his graduation. Thought it kinda fitted in to the peace theme.

Because of you

Each time a child is born the world changes
When you were born there was a new person for your family to love and care for
And because of you there is one more person who can love and care for others,
Because of you there is one more person who will grow and learn and one more person who can teach others.
Beacuse of you there is one more person to share with
And there is one more person who can share feelings and ideas as well as things.

Because of you there is one more person who needs help and one more person who can help others.

When you help, care, share and listen, you are being kind.When two people help, care, share and listen to each other, they are friends.
When people from different countries help, care, share and listen to one another, it is called peace.
Even something as big and important as peace begins with something small and precious.
It might begin....
Because of you.

Poem by B.G. Hennessy

So there it is. I hope I have inspired you to show me what you've got. Oh, and by the way, I thought I would put together a little Etsy treasury of a selection of the entries. That is also going to be a first for me so I had better get my head around that one!

2009-11-11T18:41:00.000-08:00

Bringing Unselfishness your way.

Crocheted hat by Gleeza

Milk and honeycomb Glycerin soap from Terrasecrets Bath and Body

I have recently discovered an amazing group of Etsians who are all out to help others! They love to promote others and have brought together a team of like minded sellers. Check out this thread to discover the amazing talent on offer and feel free to sign up if you think it's for you. Above is a sample of two wonderful shops who have recently bought from my shop: Terra secrets, belonging to Ginger, has an awesome range of bath and body products perfect for pampering! May be just what you're looking for in the way of Christmas gifts, or why not treat yourself? Gleeza has a wonderful array of items in her shop, ranging from crocheted goodies, embroidery, and decorative painting - well worth a peek.

Time is drawing near

2009-10-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe how fast this year has gone. My eldest two are starting their mock exams tomorrow , then they have a couple of weeks at school before their final exams for the year. That means Jordan, my 17 year old will be finished school and off to university next year in Dunedin, the South Island of New Zealand. I have had quite a time realising that our little boy is no longer going to be under our wing, but stepping out into the wide world. Where the years have gone, I don't know. I am sure many of you out there who have older children would willingly give me a shoulder to cry on if you could. I know he will have lots to learn but will be in the protective hands of his Heavenly Father.

And then there's Robyn, my 16 year old. My go getter. She made up her mind in April, after going on a missions trip to Vanuatu with her school, that her real calling was for the children of Nepal. She researched it and found an orginization called Teen missions that had a trip to Nepal in December, helping out at an orphanage. She knew that was what she wanted to do and with our go-ahead, contacted them and registered. She has been very focused, saving every penny that God has provided, coaching gym after school three days a week and really trusting that it is God that has put this desire in her heart. She has two more weeks (end October) before her final payment is due and realises that only God can make it happen. (I have told her her that he often waits till you are desperate and have no one else to depend on before he moves!). She has one more year of school after this year and then goodness knows where she will end up! I have laughingly told my children that when they all take off, that will give Andrew and I the freedom to go where we want. Guess that will change when grandchildren come along!)

Thank God though, we still have our little Rosie for a while yet. She is 9 years old and I think God knew that we would need her. She keeps us on our feet.

When I sat down to blog today, I didn't realise it would be all about my children - I must have needed to get that out. So sorry I havn't talked about art or creating or anything like that. And by the way, if you feel like being part of Gods work in Robyn's trip, there's a paypal donate button alongside or you can follow this link to Robyn's facebook group page.

Here is a picture of my brood...

2009-10-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend Daffy from Abbasgirl on Etsy made a super treasury in honour of our King. What a beuatiful heart she has. She is also having a great sale at the moment with everything reduced in her shop. Do take a look. Her treasury reminded me of a beautiful song by Michael W. Smith that once inspired me to do a painting. Here it is. "Above all"

Like a rose, trampled on the ground...He took the fall and thought of me...

Here we go again!

2009-10-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

This time it's FFAW - or First Friday Art Walk. I am joining with the ArtWalkEtsy Team and celebrating the first Friday of the month with a special offer to my customers! Kind of like the previous posts Bogo, I am offering a free item (of equal or lesser value) with any purchase from my shop this Friday, 2nd Ocober. Check out my shop announcement for more details.
I have also been tinkering with some new ideas (I can't help my self) and thought I'd show you a couple here. Do come and browse through my shop to see what takes your fancy.

Weekend Deal 18-20 Sept 09.

2009-09-17T18:54:00.000-07:00

It's my pleasure to announce my very first 'buy one get one free' sale coming up this weekend. Be sure to stop into my shop and have a browse around. Upon purchase you may choose any item of equal or lesser value - you take your pick! But remember it's only for this weekend so don't delay!Thought I'd show you my latest listing. You may recognise the photo's if you have taken a look at my selection on Flikr. I just love making these cards - it's so relaxing. See you at the shop then... Bye for now.

More Paua!

2009-09-12T22:48:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been busy making the most of my recent fascination with New Zealand paua shell. This painting is 20" x 20" and what fun it was to make! I started by gessoing the canvas, then random texturing the surface so as to give it some interest. Then I played around, scratching the surface of the gesso to reveal a spiral shape and arranging the paua according to this shape and when I was happy, I adhered it with impasto gel. Then the real fun began, the part where I applied the paint: two variations of blue and green with touches of white, (artist quality acrylics of course - you never know who will be around in a couple of hundred years to enjoy my creation!). Lots of layers of this carry on and then finally a few touches of silver dimensional paint. Now I'm off to give it a coat of satin varnish and hey presto! my New Zealand Paua Spiral Painting is complete! I'd love to hear any comments you have. Be sure to check it out in my Esty shop too.

2009-08-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

Also known as 'mother of pearl' or 'abelone', and probably many other names, this beautiful shell is my inspiration for my latest aceo, 'Paua shell cross aceo'. Paua shells come in various sizes and have a lovely shimmering appearance. This little one in the photo is from my local beach and is the smallest intact shell I have found. Compare it to the size of my aceo beside it. (the size of an aceo is 2.5" x.3.5").

Follow the link to my Etsy shop for more of my aceo's. Hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy creating them!

And for more interesting and artistic ACEO's take a look at the Etsy Aceo group - You'll find a great variety of talented artists there!

We all need a holiday!

2009-07-25T21:32:00.000-07:00

Last week our family took off for a few days and headed to the snow. It's the first time we have gone skiing as a family and wow, did we have fun! I hadn't skiid in 20 years and the kids were new to it. But they learn fast! By the end of the second day we were right up to the top of the mountain, and I might add managed to make it down again in one piece, shaky legs and all.

I took some great shots on the way down, travelling though the early morning mist. I have lots more of them on Flikr so take a look there too.

I'm featured on Etsy Studio Blog!

2009-07-12T02:43:00.000-07:00

This week I have an article on Etsy Studio blog. This is run by FolkArtbyKerry who is doing a fantastic job of promoting fellow Etsians. She has stunning artwork in her shop - why not take a look at both her shop and her blog - you will enjoy it!

Fun with Magnets!

2009-06-29T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been up to some fun. I have these magnets that I am recycling and turning into cute puzzles. What a buzz! I sand the fronts well so that my gesso adheres properly, then away I go with the design in acrylic paint and pen. Some sgrafitto (scratching off) here and there and to finish off taking the photo is even fun. Hope you like them.

One Lovely Blog Award

2009-06-14T00:27:00.000-07:00

Yay, I have been awarded my first blog award! What a lovely surprise. Thank you so much Vicky from Ellie Lee for choosing me. Please visit her blog and her Etsy shop . She does the most wonderful art and photography. Below is a taste of her work.

Now it's my turn to search out 15 lovely blogs and give them a lovely blog award! This is who I have chosen:

Winniel and the Laughing House

Gifts of Creation

Peartreegallery
Crazy Milkshake

MumMum's Blog

Heidi's Photo Shop
Matts Crafty Wife

Have a look at these awesome blogs and don't forget to check out their shops. Have fun!

2009-06-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

I am participating in the 2nd annual YART sale on Etsy sponsored by team ESST from Wednesday 10 June to Sunday 14 June. This means........that you receive a free item of your choice from my shop up to the value of $7 when you purchase anything of $10 or over. That's almost 2 for 1!

Above are a few samples of what you could take home for free!

So go on over and have a browse through my Etsy shop

Robyn has her sights on the unreached of Nepal!

2009-05-29T01:46:00.000-07:00

Robyn is 16 years old and as you may have seen from an earlier post, has recently come back from her first missions trip to Vanuatu. She had an amazing time meeting and ministering to the people there and has come back with her passion ignited. So much so that she has already booked herself onto her next trip, this time on a 4 week trip to Nepal in December. The trip involves a building project at an orphanage in Makwanpur, ministering to the locals and the children in the orphanage, as well as visiting remote mountain villages, many that have never heard the Gospel before. The trip is organized by Teen Missions International and will be leaving from Auckland, New Zealand (where we live) with a group of other keen young teenagers. This is going to be a challenge for Robyn, both financially and physically but..... she has lots of faith. She has a part time job as a gymnastics coach which is going to help greatly towards her costs for the trip but she is asking that people would prayerfully consider contributing. The cost for the trip is $4200 NZD ( approx $2600 USD) plus extras. If you feel this is something you could do please click on the donate button alongside ->

On behalf of Robyn, thank you so much for your support, be it prayer or finance.

2009-05-19T02:47:00.000-07:00

I have been pondering over the word 'Shalom' after reading it on the CAC blog

What an incredible word that has so many blessings attached.

I did a painting a while back with the words 'Shalom - peace that passes understanding' on it. Here it is for you to view.

2009-05-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

Take a look at Audrey's Counrty Crafts blog. It's awesome. LAst week she featured me on her Friday Fantastic Finds and today she has this cool getting to know you A-Z thingy. http://audreyscountrycrafts.blogspot.com/

Great May Offer!

2009-04-30T17:33:00.000-07:00

Take a peek at my Etsy store and see if there is anything you fancy....because now is the time to buy. Any purchase of $10 or more gets you a FREE ACEO of your choice from my shop. Here is just a taste...

Also check me out on the ACETSY blog

DREAM

2009-04-15T18:26:00.000-07:00

I had fun decorating this wooden template for my daughter. Though she is only 15 she has amazing dreams for her life. She seems to have caught my travel bug, loves different countries and peoples so whilst she is away on her first missions trip and with a birthday looming, I thought I'd put this together for her.

2009-04-09T20:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm onto ACEO's (art cards editions and originals) in a big way. Can't stop making them. This is my latest series. I'm not finished there's more to come..... Keep a check on my Etsy shop......

2009-04-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

This painting was an inspiration I had last Easter. It really sums up for me what Easter is all about.

2009-03-29T14:56:00.000-07:00

This is my gift lable I include wth all my Etsy sales. I use handmade paper of various colours for the background. I love to put special effort into whatever I ship. If I can bring just one person some joy in their day, then I'm happy!

In progress

2009-03-29T14:34:00.000-07:00

So this is the painting I have been thinking over for a while now. It is still in progress and doesn't have a title yet. This usually comes to me as I work. I plan to add some wording to the scripture too. Something along the lines of the poor and needy. I am doing a course at the moment called Kairos http://www.kairoscourse.org/us.html which has really opened my eyes to world outreach

Upcoming exhibition

2009-03-22T15:50:00.001-07:00

I'm in the process of preparing for a local group exhibition. Still have a way to go. I have an idea brewing in my mind of a little third world child. I will see what comes of that. My style is more contemporary so I'll see how I can bring the idea together. My daughter (15) is off on a mission/aide trip to Vanuatu in the Pacific in 3 weeks time so our focus is on supporting her and those she is going to help.

ACEO Firsts

2009-03-19T17:41:00.001-07:00

Just completed my first ACEO's. Such a great idea and I can see they are going to become addictive. I love creating them.

My Fave Beach

2009-03-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of my local beach. I was down there early morning to watch the sunrise. It was so still and peaceful, just what I needed to start the day. Snippits like this are such a blessing in my day. One really needs to take the time to appreciate them. Once I get home, things get into full swing, what with a busy family (two teenagers and a nine year old), work and of course fitting in the most important part: CREATING.

2009-02-22T17:14:00.000-08:00

This is a painting I did for an exhibition recently. It's called Take Time. All about taking time to enjoy the smaller details of life.