Thursday Sweet Treat

The Thursday Sweet Treat has a NEW HOME!

2011-03-10T09:43:00.000-08:00

Today marks the first unveiling of the Thursday Sweet Treat on CreativeNachos.com. Please hop on over and check it out!

YOU have all been so incredible in my life. You have made this place magical for me. It is my hope that you will come along over to Nachos and continue to play. Let's see where this adventure leads us - together!

Love and many, many cartwheeling hugs to all of you beautiful souls!
Natasha

First 2011 Theme! Sky Blue

2011-03-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

Announcement: So the new site is not fully ready yet. It needs a few more things AND I'm still deciding how to best work this merger. BUT let's not let that stop us from playing!!

The TST is NOW open for business!!

A couple of things to note. I would like the Thursday unveiling to remain a largely visual experience. So, I ask that we keep the things we write to accompany our finished masterpieces brief. HOWEVER......

I'm EXTREMELY interested in process. So, when you submit your piece or pieces, please share an additional paragraph about the process of creating the work. If you were creating and you made a mistake, share that as well as mistakes are often just little nudges to take our designs in a different direction, one better suited for it.

I will be highlighting 1 artist each week. I will highlight their creation as well as the process. So, if you have included a longer "process" piece I will post that along with the work. I hope that makes sense. If not, please let me know.

Ok...ready let's dive in!

This week we are going to focus on Sky Blue. Now you are free to interpret that any way you wish. Perhaps you would like to create something using the color of the sky during the day or the deep color of it at night...the sky, oh so blue. Or maybe sky blue makes you think of the eyes of your Mom, daughter, or someone you love. Let this color take you where it wants to go!

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, March 9th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, March 10th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name, blog name or all three.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. A small paragraph on the process of creating this work in case you are chosen as the artist of the week

4. Links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, let your imagination soar up, up , up and away!

An Online Course - Oh the Stories You’ll Tell: A Celebration of You and Your Work Begins March 14th, 2011

2011-02-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

Back by Popular Demand!

No two stories or the ways in which we tell those stories are alike. We all have interesting lives and we bring a distinctive perspective to all that we do and yet, how many times have you thought of sharing a story but stopped yourself? How often have you felt you had nothing to say?

We don’t celebrate ourselves or the moments that make up our lives nearly as much as we should and - as artists, writers, bloggers, crafters and creative folks making a presence online – it is especially important to do so. Getting your authentic voice out there and being truly proud of it takes courage. Whether you are writing in your professional life or your personal one, it helps to have someone cheering you on and providing the advice and encouragement you may need while working to make your dreams come true. Let me be that personal cheerleader.

“Oh the Stories You’ll Tell” is a 4 week workshop designed to recharge your storytelling and celebrate the true magic in all you do. We will tell stories in all sorts of ways from writing and art journaling to collage and video/photography. As we explore new and unusual ways to tell our tales, our vision of who we are and what we do will broaden allowing us to find unique ways to represent ourselves and our work in person and online.

Within this limited enrollment class, you will find exercises, thought-provoking prompts, inspiring pdf’s and funny videos. In addition, you will interact with members of the group and receive personal attention from Natasha. This course has been designed so that many of the activities will fit within the framework of daily life. In fact, the hope is that it allows all of us to be more present and fulfilled in our day to day lives. In the end, you will have a journal filled with memories of your storytelling journey that you can refer to anytime you feel as though you are losing your way.

If there is one thing I have learned as a writer and artist, it’s that we need to shake up routines, find new ways of looking at things, and find an inspiring and supportive community where we can share our ideas.

I hope you will join me on this journey. In the end, we will not only have found a way to stay true to our voice but we will celebrate it in ways that will enhance our personal and professional life.

The workshop will begin on Monday, March 14th. You will receive a link to a private site a week prior to the start of class. The cost of this course is $40.

About Natasha

Natasha has been writing since the day her mom put a journal in her hand at age four. She received her MFA in writing from the New School in New York City before spending time as Marketing and Development Director for a nonprofit and later, freelance writer creating promotional materials for small businesses. Natasha assisted in creating original curriculum pieces for a private school in Manhattan before being invited to teach writing and editing workshops for some of the students. She has taught writing and photojournalism workshops for teenagers and written for publications such as Family Circle, Latina, Lifetips and MediaBistro. She is a 2011 Sketchbook participant and will be teaching along with 20 talented, professional artists in the upcoming 21 Secrets course.

Are you IN?

2011-02-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

I've come to understand that time flies when you having fun but it also whizzes by when life is NUTS! The whole family came down with the flu so I was the round the clock family medic. Then, we had a celebration for my son and now, here I am.

All the while I have been working on new classes (check back later today for a class announcement) and focusing my attention on where I want to go with my art and writing.

However in the meantime, I'm still moving this party to Nachos but I'd LOVE to know who here is still up for the Thursday Sweet Treat! May I see a show of hands for who wants to play??

Either leave a comment here or email me to let me know if you are still game. My goal is to bring the fun back on March 3rd...so let me know your thoughts.

Big things are honestly about to take place around here....so let me know if you are in!

Universal LOVE

2011-02-14T10:24:00.000-08:00

Life has been NUTS! The whole family was sick and it felt as though it would never end. Everything was put on the back burner but now I'm playing.

Happy Valentine's Day!!

I'm not a huge Valentine's Day gal because I think it can often make people feel bad. It's geared toward couples "in love" when really it should be about love - universal. However, I do dig the idea that there is a day to remind us of what we should be doing all the time - loving one another well.

So, in honor of loving all I'm celebrating ART JOURNAL LOVE DAY! I created a page and I thought I knew exactly how it would turn out and I found that it's completely different from what I imagined. I also discovered it's for a friend who needs to remember how loved she is these days.

So, pop over to Dirty Footprints if you have a sec and make an art journal page. Share it on your blog and you could win ...a prize! YES, a TOTAL LOVE FEST PRIZE!! Woooohoooo

Want to Know a Secret??

2011-01-31T08:01:00.001-08:00

21 What? Ways to bake a cake? NO!

21? Ways to do narly tricks on your skate or surfboard? NO

21? Types of drinks you can make? Umm...potential class but NO

How's about 21 AMAZING secrets you can learn from AMAZING, INCREDIBLE, SENSATIONAL artists, including ME!! That's right....I will be joining 20 artists on April 1st for the most magnificent art journaling journey.

From April 1st to August 1st, 2011 you can bask in all things art journaling on the 21 Secrets playground.The cost is $59 and you get SO much material...videos, pdf's and months to get to know these artists, art therapists, writers, and creative extraordinaires.

But don't take my word for it. PLEASE check out all the phenomenal women I will be working with...it will blow you away. Visit Dirty Footprints Studio and the fabulous Connie - the founder of this art sensation for more information.

I truly hope you will come play on April 1st. Registration starts Monday, March 14th, 2011. I can promise you, you will LOVE it!

True to Myself

2011-01-25T10:06:00.000-08:00

It has been a LONG time. Please forgive me! How are you all doing?? I've missed you very much so here's a BIG hug from my heart to yours!

Happy Belated New Year to each of you. How has the New Year been? Tell what's new?

The start of the year has been rather interesting for me. I know normally people slow down at the end of the year and then come January 1st they ramp up again with resolutions and energy to take on all the things they hope to accomplish but this year wasn't like that for me. 2011 started with a call for stillness and silence. So much happened at the end of last year that I needed quiet and so I went with that thought and feeling.

I started the next installment of the BIG painting series at Dirty Footprints Studio called DEEP which has allowed me to get quiet and get into a place where I can grow personally, professionally, and creatively.

I needed time to sort through things and slow down enough to begin to hear the sound of my own inner voice and heart. I needed to be more at peace with myself. I am still immersed in that process but I know in my heart that I am ready to return to blog land> I want to connect with each of you and get this place going again.

As I mentioned last year, I will be merging CreativeNachos and Thursday Sweet Treat. CreativeNachos is where this all began and it's time for all of this to live under one roof and expand. In addition, I will be teaching new classes on Nachos and have some other surprises.

I want to thank you for all the love and support you always share with me and all the patience you have had as I've worked to grow as an artist, writer and woman in this life. I would love to hear how your lives are going, what your hopes are for this year and all you would like to share so please feel free to comment or email.

In the next week or so, you will begin to see changes. Please bear with me as I make this transition. My goal is to be set up completely by the first week of February.

Love and shimmy shakin' magic to you!
Tasha

Here's What We Are Going To Do

2010-12-03T18:36:00.001-08:00

The Home of My Passionate, Creative Heart
Created by Natasha Reilly

I wanted to begin by sharing this piece that I created for Week 6 of BIG, created by Dirty Footprints Studio. This is a deeply personal painting ...it's huge and wonderful. I am very proud of this work as lots of love and passion went into it's creation.

Since I began the Thursday Sweet Treat, I have loved all of the creative souls I have met. There have been some amazing times and some tough times here and the entire time I have learned and loved in more ways than I ever imagined possible.

The time has come for the TST to change a bit. Before I began this, I was writing a blog called Creativenachos. I have gone back and forth between both for awhile but the time has come to combine these worlds. As I grow and change as an artist along with all of you, I feel it's only right that my blogs grow and change with me.

So, aside from the merger, I am going to change the way we do things on the TST a bit. I want to delve a little more into process so we not only see what we create but we learn more from one another as artists. It won't require a ton of work on your part just a new way of exploring this artistic journey together.

I will be closing the TST for a few weeks again in order to bring about the changes needed. I think it's ok to do that now as the end of the year can be crazy for everyone and this allows time to focus on relaxing, being with family and friends and gearing up for the new year ahead.

The TST will open again in mid-January. I will post more as I get closer to being ready and of course I will be posting off and on throughout the holidays. I will be in touch and it is my hope you will return next year for a whole lot more artistic fun. Also please check back as I will be teaching some new classes and I will be posting lots of info about them.

Much love to you and thank you for inspiring me to grow the TST and create something bigger than I imagined!

xoxoxo,
Natasha

How Do These Artists Share Love?

2010-12-02T09:50:00.000-08:00

PLEASE NOTE: Please join me tomorrow for an important TST announcement. Thanks!

This week, I am in LOVE with the beautiful works these talented, professional artists created. Each one celebrates inspiration, blooming, the layers of love, poetry and love shared between two people. It's just wonderful! The work that I created was twofold - it was for a class I am in and for the TST. I have not revealed it in either place yet but will share it here tonight.

Please join me on a LOVEly journey....

Maureen, super talented artist, created this gorgeous piece.

"What can I say? Feeling "I love you" makes me feel like flowers blooming inside me . . .and any sense of gratitude, felt and/or expressed, also feels like beauty blooming. So, that's what got painted," said Maureen.

"I want to be sure to credit Amanda/PersistentGreen for being my artistic muse on this. A few months ago she showed me a new style she was trying, with abstracty flowers, brilliant colors, and black highlights. I was captivated. I'm trying to play with the ideas and make them my own, without copying her. For me, it's combining a sort of stained glass outlining, with the "loud" colors and flowery shapes."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea and More Bright Ideas, created this stunning piece.

"I love texture, and with this piece I simply played with various textures, overlays, opacities to see what kind of effects I could get," said Felicia. "There’s about 6 layers here, I think. I topped it off with two lines from a poem by my favorite, e. e. Cummings."

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
www.etsy.com/shop/morebrightideas
www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this phenomenal Live Laugh Love, mixed media wall hanging, approximately 6 inches across.

"This week's theme made me think of a phrase that's been special to my husband and me for years now--Live, Laugh, Love," said Amanda. "The funny thing is that now the saying has become really popular; we see it in gift shops all the time (and often can't help buying pillows, plaques and all kinds of things with variations on the phrase). I couldn't resist making an artful object of my own!"

http://PersistentGreen.com

Now tell me, is your heart not full? Are you not madly in love??

Growing BIG

2010-11-29T07:19:00.000-08:00

What does it mean to you to be BIG?

When I joined Connie Hozvicka, creator of Dirty Footprints Studio, in her BIG workshop I thought I knew the meaning of the word but over the course of the last six weeks, I have learned an entirely new definition. BIG is powerful. BIG is transformative. BIG is a celebration not just of life but, more specifically, the life force within you. It taps into the meat, the heart of you and invites you to release in a way I guarantee you haven't since you were little, if ever.

When I joined, I knew I would be creating paintings but even that word has taken on new significance in my life. My paintings are massive in size and in heart. I began having done little painting outside of art journaling, and now I wake every single day wanting to create, wanting to paint.

If you have an opportunity to take this course, I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend it. It has been an incredible experience that is changing my life. My husband even commented that he was in awe of what a positive effect it was having on all of my life.

If you have a moment today, stop by Dirty Footprints Studio and check out some of the amazing art created by Connie - a truly remarkable artist who inspires me to no end - and that of my fellow FEARLESS painting Tribe members, all of whom I adore!

Sending you BIG love!

Something is Coming

2010-11-28T19:15:00.000-08:00

Something exciting is on the horizon....I will be sharing this week.....anything exciting you'd like to share?

From My Heart to Yours

2010-11-22T11:55:00.000-08:00

How you choose to interpret the theme is completely up to you. It simply needs to be tasteful – no pornography or messages of hate here. When you sit down to create, you cannot think about how people will or will not receive your work. You are required to simply enjoy the act of creating.

This Thursday is Thanksgiving, a day to give thanks for the many riches such as friends, family, food on the table and so on. We will not be playing as we will all be surely eating but this TST will be revealed on Thursday, December 2nd.

For this treat, I'd like you to do three things. First, turn on the song below and dance around. I mean it, get up from your chair and dance around your house with joy! Second, I'd like you to think about the words - I love you. How do those words apply to your life right now? Maybe you haven't taken care of yourself the way you would like and need to say, I Love you, to you or perhaps it brings the thought of someone in your life, a loved one, daughter, son, grandchild, friend, etc. Think about that person during Thanksgiving. Finally, give thanks for them and then create something new with them in mind.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, December 1st if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, December 2nd. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, make something from your heart!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!!

Artists Create Images That Will Dance In Your Head

2010-11-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

Clearly, I'm still adjusting to how time works with two little ones LOL! I'm so thrilled to say hello again! Welcome back to the TST. This website will be changing within the next few month but for now, let's get started!!

I'm so proud to share the unique, truly sensational works created by incredibly talented artists that I love!

Sit back, relax and enjoy the dance.....

Maureen, a truly talented artist who celebrates life created this joyful piece.

"It seems very appropriate that this first TST prompt, after our 'time out for life' break, should be one that reawakens my awareness of the power of art, running through our veins," said Maureen.

"This first prompt didn't move me. This gal gets Tasha's juices flowing, but she just didn't do anything for me. But I wanted to do SOMEthing . . so was gonna paint a wild-and-swirly something-or-other, because that's what the gal's hair made me think of. So, I listened to the video one more time and headed for my paints . . and what came out was NOTHING like my rational brain was planning, and yet, it was exactly right. Just what I needed. When my ears heard "the dog days are over," my heart heard "the dark days are over," because I've been climbing out of a veeeeeeeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrry deep hole, emotionally, and can finally see daylight. Not surprisingly, this piece demanded (very nicely) to be framed, and will hang somewhere on my new mandarin walls.

I know we are supposed to keep our comments to 2-3 sentences, and I'll do that in future, but I just HAD to share how this prompt (on the surface no big deal) really touched me in my artist's soul."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea and the NEW More bright Ideas, created this unforgettable piece titled, “Staccato”.

"No earth-shattering significance in this piece, except that the images dancing in my head are chaotic – staccato – too much to do and not enough time to do it in," said Felicia. "At the same time I long for calm and serenity but don’t see it on the horizon for quite a while.

One of the reasons for that busy-ness in my life: I opened a second etsy shop (morebrightideas) and moved all of my more craft-oriented items over, along with some new items that are recycled/repurposed. My original shop (anotherbrightidea) now has only my digital creations, photography, greeting cards and ACEOs. I’m SO glad I did it, and the new shop is getting a lot of traffic, but now my original shop is wasting away! I have to give it some new attention and new work."

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
www.etsy.com/shop/morebrightideas
www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created "Quirk," a gorgeous mixed media wall hanging, seven inches across.

"First, I have to say (shout?!) how thrilled I am to be playing here again--I can't wait to "see" everybody!" said Amanda. "My first thought about the video was "Wow, that is one confident woman!," and I wanted to celebrate the concept of embracing your quirkiness instead of hiding it. This piece is part of a new series I'm developing called "Medallions," which feature vibrant color and pattern, along with inspiring words."

http://PersistentGreen.com

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created these fun crayons.

"When I listen to Florence and the Machine, I think fierce, colorful thoughts. Thus, these lion crayons were born. I want to create wild images with them!"

http://doodlestar.etsy.com (to be open again soon)

(Working on getting clearer images. These were taken with children hanging on me LOL)

Don't these new creations leave you with fun, bubbling thoughts??

Next week will be Thanksgiving YAY!!! So, tomorrow I will post a new theme that will make you dance and bask in love!!! That theme won't be revealed till Thursday, December 2nd!! Wow...December already??

The Images Danced In My Head

2010-11-11T07:36:00.000-08:00

Inspiration can come from anywhere. It can be something that stirs the senses; perhaps it's something visually stunning or maybe a voice that grabs hold of your soul. This is why we need to remain open - open mind, open heart - to all around us.

Florence and the Machine is a band I'm in love with at the moment. This woman's voice does something to me...it makes me move. This first week back, I ask you to watch the video first, then replay and listen with closed eyes. What grabs you? The colors in the video, a song line, her voice? Take whatever stirs you and create something new.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, November 17th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, November 18th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, make something you cannot help but bring to life!

Do You Think I'm Crazy?

2010-11-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

Do you think I'm crazy? I would too! I'm all..."Hey guys, do you want to play?" Then, I disappear. Then, I come back, apologize for disappearing, set a date to begin playing and disappear again. I mean really? You must be wondering if I'm totally bonkers. Well, I'm happy to report I'm not LOL...well not totally at least. Please allow me to explain.

One afternoon not long ago, my son went from feeling 100% fine to feeling extremely sick in a VERY short amount of time. He suffered a seizure in my arms and went into the hospital. I'm not going to lie it was one of the scariest times of my life but he has recovered and is back home. He is doing exceptionally well as is my other little munchkin. There have been other challenges that we have been facing but so long as the four of us are all healthy and able to crack a joke or two,(luckily my husband and I have dark, crazy humor so we can find laughter in the wildest situations) we can pretty much overcome anything.

So, here I am again and I say to you I'm sorry for not being around. I promise you that this week we will begin playing - I can't wait! And this place will finally come to life again.

Thanks for understanding. So I ask you...and I mean it...are you ready to play??? I am ...we will begin this week...for sure!!!

Drop me a line when you can and let me know how life has been treating you.

xoxo,
TST Tasha

A New Day

2010-10-24T20:56:00.000-07:00

So, did you think I was just kidding about the TST coming back? LOL! Nope. Life has been NUTS and it took me away for a bit but I'm back!! It's the dawn of a new day on the TST. This Thursday , October 28th I will be sharing a NEW theme. I can't wait!!!! YAY!!!!!

I have more to share....so stay tuned....and this time I REALLY will be back! LOL

Thanks for sticking with me and my craziness!! I love ya for it.

Inspiration In MANY Forms

2010-10-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

This beautiful piece titled "Bring On The Wonder" was created by Effy Wild
© Effy Wild

I love being inspired although I never know where I will find it. When I stumble across something exceptionally inspirational it strikes the heart of me like a lightning bolt. That sensational feeling pulses through my limbs, ignites a fire in my brain and won't let go till I finally get off my ass and do something about it. I love things that move me to create.

So, I've decided to send along some inspiration to you. ALL of the artists listed here are WONDERFUL. Whether you decide to make something or join in on the fun you will be inspired by each of these amazing folks.

Caffeinated Frenzy's Love Bug Experiment

The world needs more love - plain and simple. Why not be a part of sharing that love?
The stupendously crafty, ultra talented artist Kelsey, creator of the adorable Caffeinated Frenzy started a project that invites people to leave her cute little Love Bugs with a note in public spaces for others to find – why? To brighten their day and make them smile. How awesome is that?? She has even decided to share her Love Bug pattern with everyone so you can make your own to leave around. Feeling crafty? Want to teach the kids how to share the beauty of art and make someone’s day??

Please visit her blog for the pattern, grab your kiddos or some friends and start spreading the love! I left some in NYC ...it was a BLAST!!!

List-makin' with Artsyville

The lovely, super funny and wickedly talented Aimee, creator of Artsyville, has just added a little more fun to the week. Join her every Tuesday for a little list-making craziness and who knows what kinds of lists you can come up with....I might start with how many different types of chocolate I eat in a given week! LOL!

BIG

The insanely inspiring, mega-talented Connie, creator of Dirty Footprints Studio, has an incredible workshop coming that you won't want to miss! BIG is all about Fearless painting. However, from what I've seen and what I know about the unforgettable, transforming teaching style of Connie, I can tell you it's about way more than that....it's about living a FEARLESS life. Interested?? Pop on over to Dirty Footprints Studio and check it out.

Art Journaling 2011

The warm, engaging, exceptionally talented Effy Wild, creator of Wild. Precious wants to give back. This art journaler extraordinairre will be offering a Free Art Journaling workshop in the beginning of 2011. Have you ever done art journaling? Ever wanted to try? Check it out and share your thoughts when you visit Here.

Thursday Sweet Treat

And of course, this space. The Thursday Sweet Treat themes will begin again next week. SOOOOO, come play next Thursday when a new theme will be shared and much more.....

Have a great weekend!!

Are You Ready??

2010-10-06T16:41:00.001-07:00

Hello, hello, hello!! It feels like AGES since I've been around!! How is everyone?? How's life??

I'm just gearing up to come back and have some crafty, artsy, writing fun; even my little doodlers at home are excited. There's lots of fun things on the horizon so keep an eye to the screen because in the next few weeks, the playground begins again and I just have to ask,

are YOU ready to play???

30 Journal 30 Days Dirty Footprints Studio Style

2010-07-31T08:55:00.000-07:00

I want to thank each and every person for all the love you have sent our way!! I will be responding more in the next few weeks. The ONLY thing I've been doing is being Mom and working in my art journal whenever I have a moment. (It is open on my kitchen counter every day in case I get a minute.) It's been helping me to sort through all that happened and record all of the amazing things that are happening.

Connie, creator of Dirty Footprints Studio, Art Journal Love Letters, and more amazing things, ran a month of interviews with Art Journalers from around the globe which was incredible. Today, she invited others to join in on the fun by answering the interview and posting pieces. I'm honored to be a part of this. If you have a moment, please visit her blog to meet many, many fabulous, inspiring art journaling souls. Thank you for all you have done, Connie!

How long have you been Art Journaling?

I've been journaling since the day my Mom put my first journal in my hands. I was four and I drew my dreams - me as an eight-legged creature flying over NYC with friends...yeah, don't ask LOL - and writing things like my hair is the color of mink..once again, don't ask LOL! Over the years, I went back and forth between simply writing in my journal and drawing, collaging and painting. I had no idea what I was doing was "art journaling." I just knew I had an obsession with color and needed to add it to my journal world.

How has Art Journaling impacted, changed, or enhanced your life?

Art journaling changes my life each time I do it. It helps me through transitions and to loosen the crazy hold I sometimes feel I'm supposed to have on life. It allows me to play and through play I believe in my heart I learn more about myself and my life. I uncover new ideas, face deep, hidden fears and let the color monster within have a feast!

What are a few of your favorite Art Journaling materials to use?

I love to use acrylics - they are just yummy - oil pastels, gel pens, Sharpies, gesso and (thanks to Connie's - creator of Dirty Footprints Studio - class, Art Journal LOVE letters) gel medium. I also love incorporating any fabulous, colored papers I can find.

Who are some of your favorite Art Journalers?

Connie seriously rocks...her guidance is amazing.
Sarah Whitmire
Effy Wild
The Inspiring, Amazing, Beautiful Lovelies in Connie's Art Journal LOVE letters course - they are magnificent!

What kind words of encouragement would you say to an Art Journal newbie?

How often do you really celebrate or honor you? Your art journal is the place to enjoy YOU! Celebrate YOU! When you step into your journal, pour color all over you and let words drop from your fingertips, you are giving yourself a gift. You are allowing yourself to explore, play, share, laugh, cry, love and grow. It's not a place for judgement or critics - unless you are telling your demons to take a hike. It's a place for you to be the most you that you can be and LOVE that!

Where can we contact you...give us some link LOVE!!

I just had a baby - my second - so right now, I'm playing Mom but I'm still floating around a little and will return in the Fall. Please drop me a line and say hello.

-Thursday Sweet Treat: a weekly theme and showcase of new art
-CreativeNachos: my personal playspace
-Natasha@creativenachos.com

Short Bio:

Natasha, also known as “Creative Nacho,” has been writing since the day her mom put a journal in her hand at age four. She received her MFA in writing from the New School in New York City before spending time as Marketing and Development Director for a nonprofit and later as a freelance writer, creating promotional materials for small businesses. Natasha assisted in creating original curriculum pieces for a private school in Manhattan before being invited to teach writing and editing workshops for some of the students. She has taught writing and photojournalism workshops for teenagers and written for publications such as Family Circle, Latina, Lifetips and MediaBistro. In addition, one of her pieces lives in the Library of Congress. In 2009, she made her dream come true of making a living doing both crafting and writing together when she opened DoodleStar, her personal creative playground. When she’s not playing professionally, she can be found playing at home with her mischievous husband and lovable daughter they like to call Doodle.

Then There Are the Days When Life Is a Celebration..

2010-07-24T13:34:00.000-07:00

My son is home!

There are almost no words to describe the feeling. Seeing my children interact and being together is simply heaven. My heart is full.

Thank you to each and every person who wrote, commented, prayed, and sent along love. You have no idea how much your thoughts, words, prayers and endless support meant to us. As I've mentioned before, it meant the world. We believe in our hearts that all the thoughts and prayers helped this little man.

Thank you, thank you, thank you...now, I'm going to spend a little time basking in this moment. Be back soon. Till then, thank you. You are a part of my heart.

Love and hugs to all of you :)

UPDATE and THANKS

2010-07-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I want to thank each and every one of you for your prayers, love, support and healing thoughts.

Alex has made substantial improvements recently and if he continues on this road he may be home this week!!

We are so thankful for all you have sent our way. We believe in our heart that it is helping so please keep sending it along.

To all who have sent emails, please know it means the world. I'm sorry I've not been able to respond. I will in time.

Love to you all!

Good Thoughts and Prayers

2010-07-17T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

My son is facing some issues and is in ICU right now. If you can please send thoughts and prayers please.

Hug someone you love VERY tight today.

Love to you all

Alexander

2010-07-14T16:02:00.000-07:00

Photos to come but Alexander arrived today.

Love to you all!

POP! The Time Has Come...

2010-07-12T21:14:00.001-07:00

My dear, sweet friends!

The time has finally arrived. Tomorrow morning I will be induced and this little one will make its way into the world. Sooo, that means that our playtime on the TST will be suspended for a little bit BUT I will be back to share the news - what do you think it is a girl or a boy?? You've got a 50/50 chance here LOL!

The Thursday Sweet Treat themes will resume in the early Fall and it is my sincere hope that you will come back to play then. Happy summer!

I wish you all much love and happiness always!

Sensational Artists Invite You to Swim Through a Gorgeous Sea of Imagination

2010-07-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

This week, the colors, the imagination, the beauty of both the creations and stories inspired me. As I look at these works, I feel a sense of connection with all around me and my hope is that through creation of art and love we can change the world around us - those things that don't work to benefit human and animal kind - for the better. All we need is belief and action - we need to do the work no matter how small or grand and we can make this world heal and shine.

Come, let's celebrate the sea of imagination....

Kelsey, creator of Caffeinated Frenzy and the amazing Love Bug project, created these gorgeous wake, merino wool fingerless mitts (pictured with slouchy beret hat).

"I went kayaking last weekend as a belated birthday celebration," said Kelsey. "The most fun part was finding big boats to make waves for our little kayak. Everything affects everything else when you're in the water!"

http://www.caffeinatedfrenzy.com/

Maureen, an incredible talented artist, created this sparkling work.

"As much as I love the sea, I didn't end up loving the piece I did this week . . . instead of my typical aquamaureen colors, I was trying to get the green and sunshine that I saw a few weeks ago when I was in the Pacific ocean . . . didn't come out quite as I'd envisioned it . . . and the glitter--well, all I can say is that the only glitter I had in the house was some 15-year-old fabric glitter glue, left over from Girl Scout days!!!" said Maureen.

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created these sensational pieces.

"I love this theme, once again!" said Trina. "I have three pieces, a bracelet and two pendants. The pendant has pearls and lapis, representing the earth and the sea and their interplay. One of the pendants is a small snippet of mermaids tail that has washed ashore. Hopefully we will take note and listen to the story it tells each of us."

"Finally I have a starfish pendant, which I included because as soon as I saw this theme I thought of one of my favorite stories, "The legend of the starfish". The story goes that a young man was walking along a beach at low tide, throwing the exposed starfish back into the ocean. An old man comes by and asks what he is doing. When the young man explains, the old man replies "Don't you realize that there are miles of beaches and millions of starfish? You can't possibly make a difference," and then walks off. The young man bends down, grabs another starfish and throws it back, saying "I made a difference to that one".

Here's to all of us making a difference.

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this truly stunning untitled mixed media in progress.

"Sorry I didn't have any glitter to work with on this one, but I loved imagining the way sunlight glitters on the water," said Amanda. "My seagull soars over an ocean of color, scented by sea breezes and salt and sun."

http://persistentgreen.com/

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

I have been spending a ton of time thinking about Intention and "living" art or making our entire lives a work of art recently. I've been wondering how powerful we can be when we make intentions and how we ourselves are works of art. So, I decided to intentially turn my hand into art with a wish for the end to all the blaming, etc. with the oil spill and a call for hope that we can come together heal the devastating damage done to the ocean and all its creatures. We ran out of glitter the other day so I imagine the yellow bits in this piece as glittery bits of sunshine on water. (By the way my little Doodle helped with this which makes it extra special :)

http://doodestar.etsy.com/

Are you feeling inspired? Me too!! The next theme is...."Through the Prism I Found..." In this theme, I invite you to imagine yourself as the prism and explore the way you see color. How does the color in the world around you come through you? Paint it, draw it, capture it in nature....whatever you do, explore color in your world and how you apply it to your creations.

A Smiling Baby and a Little Belly LOVE

2010-07-06T06:35:00.000-07:00

That is Doodle #2 a couple of weeks ago in my belly...SMILING! Can you believe that?? I was absolutely hysterical laughing when I saw that! Should be arriving any day now :)

I wanted to share an article that I wrote, Belly LOVE: This is Not Just a Belly about pregnancy, art, writing and life on Dirty Footprints Studio, an amazing place created by a woman I simply adore, Connie. If you have a moment today, I'd love it if you would swing by, read the piece (she has an amazing Belly LOVE series you should totally check out each week), leave a little love and explore her incredible site.

I wish you all a fabulous day - may smiles take you by surprise everywhere you go!

Stellar Artists Celebrate the Wonder of the Butterfly

2010-07-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

Much like butterflies, we are small but mighty this week. The incredible works that were created by these professional artists celebrate the delicate beauty and wonder of butterflies. I am simply in love and in awe of the magic within these creations.

Spread your wings, it's time to fly through these amazing works!

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this gorgeous mixed media in progress.

"My butterfly didn't quite make it off the bus yet!" said Amanda. "I just ran out of time this week, but was definitely inspired by the concept. I'm excited to continue with this piece and utilize the same style I recently discovered."

http://persistentgreen.com/

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created this stunning earring and pendant set and a striking pair of earrings.

"I had such big plans this week to write a story to go along with my pieces, something about the Butterfly meeting up with her friends Dragonfly and Ladybug and going to visit the colorful flower garden," said Trina. "Well, the story remains in my head, and as you can see, so does the my ladybug piece. But I have an earring and pendant set with butterflies and flowers and wonderful rainbow dragonfly earrings that did get made. Too much fun!"

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

I am now a part of the amazing Art Journal Love Letters experience which is taught by the incredible Connie, creator of Dirty Footprint Studio. Amanda, creator of Persistent Green and my teaching partner-in-crime, who has also taken the course introduced me to Dirty Footprints. I have been art journaling for awhile and wanted to take my work to the next level and this workshop seemed like the perfect way to do that. I'd always wanted to work with photos but never got around to it.This is my first attempt and I love the way it came out.

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

The writing on the page reads:
The enchantress unfurls her wings and flutters along the shore. She marvels at the beauty of the curling waves and the majesty of small creatures while dancing through streams of fading sunlight. When the moon rises and the stars beckon she will answer, wishing only for another day to explore the gifts of the Universe.

Are you feel as though you need to spread your creative wings? Well so am I!

This week's theme is "Sea Celebration". With all that is happening to the ocean and it's beautiful creatures with this horrendous oil spill, I thought we would find a way to celebrate the beauty of the sea. Create a piece that reflects your love of the water or one of its creatures. The only requirement is to use glitter somewhere within the piece. Have a wonderful time celebrating the beauty and life of the water!

Talented, Professional Artists Take You on a Vibrant, Fabulous Ride

2010-06-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: I'm not bummed anymore!! I got my piece in here so please take a peek AND it's Friday which signals the end of a tough week. This is me being happy - insert BIG ham and cheese smile here.

I am so bummed. This was one of the roughest weeks in a long time and not only did my camera die as I went to take a pic of my piece but it's too big for my scanner. I'm charging the battery and hope to slip my piece in later.

BUT the vibrance, creativity and magic that was created here by these talented, amazing, sensational artists will make you want to cheer! You will want to ride the wheel of creativity for sure after you see these pieces. I love this week!

Come on, let's jump in....

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this rockin' piece.

"My favorite ride for years has been the Music Express, basically just sit down on the bench and get spun into your friend while listening to loud music," said Althea. "The thing has been decorated like something out of the late 60's or early 70's so really the ride is more appropriate for this week's theme than my earrings honoring it but no one is perfect. :) Also if anyone has seen Adventureland the Music Express is the ride Lisa P operates in the film so you can see for yourself!"

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com/

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created these sensational pieces titled, “Crazy Mouse”, “Which way do we go, which way do we go”, “Slip and slide”, “Pretty Carousel horse” and “Look up”.

"A few weeks ago I went to a local country fair and became a kid again," said Felicia. "I remember I was struck at how colorful and bright all the rides and displays were. So when Natasha mentioned “ferris wheel” and “color” the fair was the first thing I thought of. I’m also back to studying Photoshop online, so I used these photos to explore different color enhancements and effects with these photos."

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

“Crazy Mouse”

“Which way do we go, which way do we go”

“Slip and slide”

“Pretty Carousel horse”

“Look up”

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this gorgeous untitled mixed media in progress.

"I'm sure this is no surprise to those of you who know me and my work, but I adored Tasha's theme this week!" said Amanda. "Color, color, and more color--my favorite. I played with the same style I used last week and created another bird piece."

http://persistentgreen.com/

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created this stellar piece.

"I loved this theme, I had so many ideas," said Trina. "The two I had time to make were the "Ferris Wheel" earrings and my "Loop the Loop" pendant. I have to say, the roller coaster (especially one with a loop the loop) is more the speed of my life than the ferris wheel, but I'm working on it!"

"Thanks again to you all for being here, until I came back I didn't realize how much I missed all of you and this space to play."

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Loop the Loop pendant

Ferris Wheel earrings

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

Do you know Connie Hozvicka, creator of Dirty Footprints Studio? If you don't you need to visit, now. Her work and her words are so striking, so beautiful that they resonate in a deeply meaningful and deeply personal way with me. Amanda introduced me to her site (thank you dear friend!) and I've been an avid reader ever since. Recently, her idea on being Fearless and living in a BIG way moved me to the core. When I think of vibrance I think of color and Connie so this piece is how my brain has been basking in her idea of fearlessness.

Are you feeling like riding the rollercoaster of creativity? Me too! Then, let's PLAY!

The next theme is: "The Butterfly Got Off the Bus and Went Into..." This is a truly fun theme. Take your butterfly or butterflies and take them on an adventure...anywhere! Have a blast with this one.

Magnificent, Professional Artists Give Gifts That Will Inspire YOU

2010-06-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

PLEASE NOTE: I'd love to hear your thoughts about Letting Your Colors Out. Please visit Creative Nachos if you have a moment :)

To everyone who wrote or emailed, I'm still here! LOL...this baby is just testing me LOL! I will let you know when those contractions are real and the new little munchkin arrives. Till then...LET'S PLAY!!!

I was SO excited by all of the submissions here. This week we have new faces, returning faces, regular wonderful faces and all of them made me cheer!! You are SO wonderful for giving yourselves a gift...whether it was time or creativity or both you deserve it. I celebrate YOU!! Then on top of that to share the gift of your art with all the folks here - well, I don't know about you but I feel exceptionally lucky to be able to bask in this beauty.

Each piece is filled with color and a true sense of celebration and peace. These professional, talented artists have inspired me to create and keep giving to myself and others.

Want a present? Follow me!

Cori, creator of the Cori Berg blog, created this truly stunnning piece.

"I think forgiving ourselves for our flaws, our mistakes, our incompleteness is actually harder than forgiving other people," said Cori. "It forces us to go through the self embarassment of admitting parts of ourselves do not add up to the person we want to be."

Please visit Cori's blog to read the rest of this inspiring post.

http://coriberg.blogspot.com/

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this fantastic piece.

"This week I gave myself the gift of a little time with my to do list including finalizing the sketch for a friend's tattoo," said Althea. "As it turns out she happened to be ready willing and able to get it done this week so I decided to submit it as my craft. As you can see I left it open for the tattoo artist to put his own style in and we made a few changes so I'm really happy about the part I played in this one."

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com/

Kelsey, creator of Caffeinated Frenzy, created this unforgettable piece.

"Something nice for myself- Last week I read a book," said Kelsey. "Probably for the first time in about two years (not counting school textbooks). Which seems a little silly, but giving oneself enough time to actually complete a book can be difficult sometimes. So for this challenge, I knit a book. This work in progress prototype is a soft hand knit cover book with hand stitched binding."

I will be posting updates about this project on my blog,http://www.caffeinatedfrenzy.blogspot.com/

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this gorgeous untitled mixed media in progress.

"I loved Tasha's suggestion of giving ourselves a gift this week," said Amanda. "I knew exactly what my gift was--an evening of paint-play, which I haven't treated myself to in a while. Boy, it felt good to dive in and get my hands covered with color again!"

http://persistentgreen.com/

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created these amazing pieces.

"I have been gone for way longer than I ever wanted!" said Trina. "Things have been so incredibly busy my way, and I just haven't even had time to breathe. How lucky I was to come back to such a special theme. The gift I chose to give myself was the time to participate with all of you this week."

"What that gift led me to do was two really cheerful, colorful pendants. Both just make me smile! The first is my "Disco Ball" and the second is "The Rainbow in the Sunshine."

"I'm so glad to have the time to play this week, and I really hope I get to stay and play for a while."

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

This week was a rollercoaster ride with contractions and the end of a class. While resting I had some time to create. I love that as my life changes so, too, does my art change. I don't normally incorporate people into my work. And I'm often an 8.5 x 11 chick but things are happening and I'm just going with it all. I have no idea where this road will lead but I like the way it's moving along.

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

Tell me, are you feeling inspired to create?? Right now?? Me TOO! Let's go for it!!

The next theme is "Vibrance Rides the Ferris Wheel" Let's PLAY with color, vibrant, gorgeous, luscious color. Paint, knit, color, get crazy. Drape yourself in it! Dance around in it! Celebrate with the intensity of feeling you feel when you ride the ferris wheel, the rollercoaster or whatever amusement park ride you like!! Celebrate the colors that explode from you when you feel fully alive!! Get it all over! Brighten the world with the exceptionally beautiful colors within YOU!!!!

Sensational Artists Choose Nature, Beauty and Art

2010-06-10T08:32:00.000-07:00

What I find fascinating about this week is how these amazingly talented artists were given a choice to create works of art for any theme and many graviated toward creating pieces that were filled with the beauty of nature. As you move through these works, each one represents some gift that comes from nature, some incredible way that the artist sees the world. These are all sensational and make me want to spend my day outdoors basking in the magic of flowers, watching clouds and birds with the same wonder and listening to the wind giggling with the trees.

Please enjoy these Participant Choice works of art...

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this sensational piece for Theme 57: Ladybug Luck.

"I decided to head back to ladybug land and this challenge came at the perfect time since I acquired a few flower shaped pieces of glass for rings and was looking for ways to jazz them up," said Althea. "I always love finding ladybugs and putting them on my plants to protect them from pests so it seemed like a natural combination."

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created these gorgeous pieces titled, "Clematis Reaching for the Sun", "Rose Reaching for the Sun", "Gerbera Reaching for the Sun" and "Daisy Reaching for the Sun" for Theme 45: A Bright Bit of Sunshine Mixed With...

"What I have been working on this week fits right into one of the previous themes: Theme 45: A Bright Bit of Sunshine Mixed With…My Garden!" said Felicia.

"We have had some incredibly hot, sunny days here mixed in with incredibly dark, rainy days. On the sunny days I hurried to get my new plantings in, in between grabbing my camera to capture the newly blooming flowers reaching for the sun. I used minimal effects on these photos – only to achieve a softer effect - and I’m pleased at how they turned out."

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com

Clematis Reaching for the Sun

Rose Reaching for the Sun

Gerbera Reaching for the Sun

Daisy Reaching for the Sun

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this magnificent Barefoot Soul piece for Theme 17: Once Upon an Afternoon Stroll.

"I've been sick and stuck in the house for several days, so my mind has been drifting to more pleasant times and a long, peaceful stroll outside--hopefully I can enjoy a real one soon!" said Amanda. "I took this photo on my most recent "doodle walk," as we came to call it in Natasha's and my e-course. Doodle walking is when you wander with delicious patience and curiosity, meandering wherever the wind blows you, letting the journey become more important than simply "getting there." PS: I finally got a new website up and running! It's definitely not perfect yet, but I'm thrilled to have made the leap anyway."

http://PersistentGreen.com

Maureen, a talented artist created this stunning piece for a mix of themes.

"I've never submitted just a photo before to TST, but this scene really spoke to me," said Maureen. "I had planned to produce something for "Oh, the Places You'll Go." But this morning, I had my attention drawn out my front window to some plants on my deck. They, in their "Purple Passion," were a trio of blooms: one barely open, one half-open, one full. But then the full-length picture shows you "Where the Wild Things Bloom,"--in a kitty litter bucket, brand name "Fresh Step." Lots of plants don't survive transplanting. If they do, they often skip one season of blooming because they need to recuperate from the shock of transition. Well, these purple beauties could no more hold back their blooming than the sun could stop shining. And they sure weren't gonna wait until they were planted in my yard. No, when the urge came to bloom, they did, right where they were. They definitely taught me a thing or two about taking a Fresh Step toward wonderful Places, down a path where Wild Things Bloom, all the time bursting forth with wholehearted Purple Passion."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created these beautiful pieces titled, "Little Bird", "Birdy Dance" and "Ladybird Luck" for Theme 58 : Little Bird, Little Bird.

"Little Bird"
"Bobbin' Robin I - Mike is the photographer of this piece, taken on one of our walks by the river. 06-08-10" said Bird.
"Bobbin' Robin II - Again, one of Mike's, but with the addition of a posterizing filter, since there was some disappointing blurriness in the original. I guess Robin bobbed at the wrong moment. :-D"

"Birdy Dance - When I sat down to create what became the Ladybird Locket, while I was sitting there this red-winged blackbird landed in this short bush-tree by the water and started doing this fluttery dance. After a while, he gave on of the 'Goldfinger' calls and left. I have no idea what he was up to with all the fluttering & peeping."

"Ladybird Locket - The "Ladybird Locket" came about as the result of a coaching session with the awesome Gareth of Fight-Mediocrity. He suggested that when I was at the park I create a talisman to remind me of the energies of being at the river, for those times when I needed a pick-me-up & a reminder of better, more power-full times.

This is that talisman. Verigated blues for the river, and a little ladybird for my own personal good fortune."

blog: www.AnEncouragingBird.com
www.crowtarottours.com - In Progress
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours
Etsy: www.CrowTarot.etsy.com

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece for Theme 36: Believe in Magic.

This piece can be looked at in two ways. The first is with the tree right side up and the second is with the tree upside down and the house right side up. The idea is that so long as you have an open heart and believe that the Universe has a little magic in it, then even amid chaos, when things feel upside down, everything will be fine.

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

Are you feeling that urge to create something? I am too! So let's hop on the next theme.

This theme is a little different. Before you begin it, you will need to do something nice for YOU! You need to give yourself a little gift of kindness. Then based upon the gift or the feeling behind it, you will create something. This theme is really about loving you because we all take ourselves for granted from time to time. We all get so busy we put everyone ahead of ourselves. This theme is a little present to you. So, I ask that you and everyone you know participate in this theme - it's a special one. Theme 61 will be titled, "The Gift."

Theme 60: Participant's Choice

2010-06-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

There have been a total of 59 themes since this blog started. Please feel free to review all of them and then choose one that you would like to create something for. Please note the themes are listed on the sidebar on the right side of this blog.

It's important to note that this differs slightly from the Mini-Monthly in that your submission cannot be something that you already started. You may have seen a theme and thought of an idea but not started the work on it. Your submission needs to be something you will begin working on now. All themes are up for grabs so dive in and if you find something in the archives that you are passionate about - go for it!

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, June 9th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, June 10th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, make something you've been dying to create!

Exceptional Artists Hang Hopes, Wishes and Dreams Upon the Limbs of Creative Trees

2010-06-03T08:22:00.000-07:00

Note: For a cool post about Mini-Journals, head over to CreativeNachos!

Trees became the symbol of strength, hope, dreams and magic in each of the works created this week. The talented, professional, coloful, creative artists and crafters who dreamed of the beauty that trees hold harnessed a celebration, not only of nature but, of the joy of life as well.

Let's climb up upon a treetop.....

Maureen, a talented artist created this stunning piece.

"This week we visit Aqualand, where AnnieMae reigns as Queen," said Maureen. "She's currently "out on a limb" in her favorite Ice Cream Cone Tree, which, no matter how many she eats, always has 7 double-dip cones waiting for her. She considers the swing far too tame, and even Rainbow Bird is set to fly away from it, having squashed her beak when trying to swing on it as she'd seen some humans do. AnnieMae is so peaceful and relaxed she doesn't even need to hang on. She loves the morning sun warm on her hair and thinks she just might spend the rest of the day, cradled on the curve of her special branch."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this gorgeous mixed media in progress titled, Little Seed.

"My piece celebrates all the potential held in one tiny seed . . . with the right care and conditions, it can begin a forest," said Amanda. "Dreams, too, need light and air and nourishment. With love, they can grow strong and tall."

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created this lovely piece.

"Frustration at WordPress, pre-launch nerves, and a periodically grey day all combined to express themselves in this poem-let," said Bird. "The tree grows towards Heaven, taking our prayers, hopes, & dreams along for the ride."

blog: http://www.anencouragingbird.com/
http://www.crowtarottours.com/ - In Progress
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours
Etsy: http://www.crowtarot.etsy.com/

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

"I have been playing with altered books for awhile both in and out of the classes I'm teaching and having such fun that I decided to share," said Natasha. "This piece is about how all we need to do is widen our perspective and open our hearts and imagination to the possibilities all around us because there is truly magic everywhere. When we talk, respect others and listen we find the beauty at the heart of all creatures great and small."

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

Are you feeling inspired to create? Good, then let's dive right into the next theme -it's the Big 60. As I am getting closer to my due date, let's have one more Participant's Choice theme before I have this baby!

So, there have been a total of 59 themes since this blog started. Please feel free to review all of them and then choose one that you would like to create something for. Please note that the themes are listed on the right sidebar of this blog.

Theme 59: Upon the Limbs of the Tree...

2010-05-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you want to celebrate the birth of Spring or the fiery light of leaves in Fall. Or perhaps you want to celebrate the strength within the tree or the book, "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein. Bask in the beauty of trees and let your imagination play.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, June 3rd if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, June 4th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one) and theme it was created for

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, let your imagination climb to the top of the tree and beyond!

Amazing, Talented Artists Invite Artful Little Birds to Soar Through the Land of Wild Imagination

2010-05-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am in love with birds this week. These talented, professional, phenomenal artists created works with fluid lines, bright colors and magic. Each piece is filled with such imagination, beauty and, in some cases, humor that you cannot help but feel your spirits lift. You cannot help but wonder if perhaps - as one artist says - "...really we're meant to fly."

Ready, spread your wings and ....

Althea, created of Salvaged Expression, created this fantastic piece.

"Sorry about the bad pictures this week but well...I'm not sure if this is finished yet," said Althea. "Maybe you guys can help me! I came up with this drawing thinking about how stressed out we get on the ground when really we're made to fly. Let me know what you guys think! Thanks!"

http://www.salvagedexpressions.etsy.com/

Maureen, a talented artist, created this phenomenal piece.

"Well, at first I thought I'd be saying, 'Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.' And then I'd show you my little 3" square doodle of my 'copy' of Natasha's bird, which has enchanted me since I first saw it," said Maureen.

"But noooooooooooooooooo . . . That's NOT what Tiny Bird wanted to do. I had to get out my favorite 6x18" watercolor pad . . .and paint 'Tasha and her Rainbow Chicks.' This is an unabashed tribute to Tasha as Teacher, based on the two e-classes I have just taken from her. 7 birds for completeness. Each has something to say. Redbird doesn't yet know how brilliant he is, and is hiding. Greenbird has heard other birds say his beak is too curved. Yellowbird looks in a puddle and sees her beak as way too long. Purplebird is 'differently-footed' but ah, has luscious tailfeathers to compensate. Orangebird is struggling to keep up. And in the sky . . .oh, in the sky is Aquabird, who has just learned she can fly. And Teacherbird . . .well, she is all the colors and songs of the rainbow and leads her chicks fearlessly into their future.

P.S. As soon as I started this painting, my hands and heart told me what to paint for my other teacher, Miss Amanda/PersistentGreen . . maybe it will show up here one of these days. . ."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Rosemary Nickerson, creator of Steadfast Ahoy, created this terrific piece.

"Penguins are birds, right?" asked Rosemary. "It's over 90 degrees here in my house and I am melting! I couldn't resist using polar birds for this "Have a Cool Birthday" card. On the other hand, my brother didn't even call me on my birthday, and the last time we DID talk, it turned into an argument. I am feeling cooler already just thinking about that." :)

http://www.steadfastahoy.blogspot.com/

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created this gorgeous Digital print titled, “Singing to a purple sky.”

"I caught a few shots of this bird on the wires above my house about a month ago," said Felicia. "Usually you expect to see blue sky and white clouds backing a photo like this, but I decided to add an unexpected purple, stormy sky. Sorry I haven’t been around lately; life (and vacations) interfered."

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this sensational mixed media painting titled, Sing Big.

"This wonderful prompt set off little bursts of inspiration in my heart--far too many to carry out yet, especially since I just got home from a weekend trip to Denver, and am also gearing up for the second session of The Creative Playground (Natasha's and my e-course--check out my link if you want to hear more!)," said Amanda. "Birds are such an uplifting symbol for me right now, so it was a joy to play this week. Thanks for the perfect prompt!"

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/p/e-course-creative-playground.html

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created these great pieces.

"Pictures from our walk by the Huron River, May 26, 2010," said Bird.

blog: http://www.anencouragingbird.com/
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours
http://www.crowtarottours.com/ - In Progress
Etsy: http://www.crowtarot.etsy.com/

"Birds on a Roof" - I thought it was neat how the one bird was able to cling to the side of the roof. Just goes to show you what we can do when we try! :>

"Ripples on a River" - I loved the composition of this one - bird, river, ripples. An exquisite physical model of the waves that spread out from actions.

"It's Not the Size; It's the Spirit" - a teen goose spreading its wings, just as we need to spread ours & declare who we really are. Not a little bird in this case, rather a honking big bird, and a big honking bird too, for that matter. But fun & photogenic just the same. :-D

And finally, just for fun, "Little Bird" - there are a bunch of red-winged blackbirds that take great delight in scolding each other & us as we walk along the paths. This one was okay with sitting in a tree until I could photograph him - thank you, little bird! :-)

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

In the last year, I have had the experience of waking only to *see* an image clearly in my head. Then it follows me around until I bring it to life. Two days ago, I had this crystal clear image in my head and I knew it was for this prompt. I love the colors in this piece. I feel like my insides are filled with color - what about you?

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

Are you feeling excited to create? Do you want to let your imagination soar? Me too! Let's jump into the next theme: "Upon the Limbs of the Tree..."

Theme 58: Little Bird, Little Bird

2010-05-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

A Little Music for You to Get Inspired! Turn it on and dance around the room!

The only requirement in this theme is that there needs to be a little bird somewhere in your work. Other than that, let your imagination soar!

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, May 26th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, May 27th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one) and theme it was created for

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, don't worry about a thing just create and have fun!

Ladybug Luck + Talented Artists = Magical New Art

2010-05-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

This week, the elusive ladybug brought a bit of magic to the talented professionals that created new art. Each one was able to carve out a little time from hectic schedules to play. What I love about this week's submissions is that whether it was five minutes or five hours, each artist allowed themselves to explore and have fun. I think each work captures that feeling.

In addition, I have a special treat. A talented writer joined us this week and wrote a piece you simply have to check out. Please visit Steadfast Ahoy! to read an exceptionally fun Red and Black piece. I promise you will love it - it builds to such a terrific list at the end. Once you finish reading, leave a little love :)

Now, shall we bask in all that is red and black?

Teri, creator of Giraffelabel, created these two fabulous pieces, a chalkboard placemat with baseballs and the LINNIE diaper clutch in oilcloth.

"I haven't been able to play in a while, and this week I actually made two things," said Teri. "For a long time I have been wanting to experiment with oilcloth in my bags. This black and white pattern is so pretty...and I love how the red bounces off of it. I love the idea behind the chalkboard fabric. There are so many fun things you could do with it! This is a placemat that you can roll up and take with you. (Actually, I messed up a little bit of the stitching, so I will be giving this one to my nephew.) I can't wait to create more with these fabrics."

http://www.giraffelabel.etsy.com/

Maureen, a talented artist created this wonderfully fun piece.

"I'd planned all week to do something for TST, but could not for the life of me remember the prompt," said Maureen. "Then I realized that I had completely forgotten to visit last week's postings (just went there now--so sorry, guys, for my not leaving comments there . . your stuff was GREAT!!) and therefore I never SAW the prompt for this week.

I took a whole five minutes for this little doodle, but HEY!, they were quality minutes!!! I would have done more, but I am limp with joyous exhaustion, having just finished the MAGNIFICENT class that Natasha and Amanda have just taught--The Creative Playground. They are planning to run this same class a second time (starting June 1??) and I just cannot recommend it highly enough. Please, please consider taking it, every one of you reading this comment from me: your life as an artist will just blossom (mine exploded!!)

Anyway, look at the closeup of my doodle. See where the black line doesn't go all the way down? I was gonna "fix" it . . . but then the red said NO!!! that was its little place where it could escape!!"

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created this fantastic piece titled, "Ladybird Fortune."

"For the last couple of days, I've been picking out quotes to go with the various sections of our sales letter for Blanket University, so when I sat down to work on my piece for this week, typesetting a quote seemed like a natural choice. :-D" said Bird. "Enjoy the Ladybug Luck, all! :-)"

blog: An Encouraging Bird (www.anencouragingbird.com)
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours
www.crowtarottours.com - In Progress
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours
Etsy: www.CrowTarot.etsy.com

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this awesome untitled doodle.

"Totally ran out of time this week (getting ready for a weekend trip to Denver), but I really enjoyed hitting the "pause" button for a few moments to let myself play," said Amanda. "I just doodled with big art crayons--such a simple pleasure, but it helps relieve tension and remind me that I can fit art ANYWHERE into my life, even if only for five minutes. It makes a big difference!"

http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

I wasn't sure I'd be able to get this done as this week was nuts. But as I played with watercolors with my daughter, this emerged. I love it because it was born from pure fun. The little ladybug is saying to the other, "We're so lucky we found one another."

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

Are you sooo excited to create now?? Well good, so am I. So let's dive into the next theme: "Little Bird, Little Bird". The only requirement in this theme is that there needs to be a little bird somewhere in your work. Other than that, let your imagination soar!

Theme 57: Ladybug Luck

2010-05-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

This week we will try to capture the magic and "luck" idea behind these tiny wonders. The only requirement is that you have to use red and black in some way within your piece.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, May 19th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, May 20th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one) and theme it was created for

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, play with red, black and whatever else inspires you!

Surf the Monster Wave of Creativity Within New Works Created By Amazingly Talented Artists

2010-05-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

The talented, thoughtful, whimsical, creative artists who created new works today captured the colors, sensations, feelings and magic of surfing. Whether they have gone surfing or not, they managed to harness a creative power within their work that is usually reserved for ocean waves. It is at once both thought-provoking and inspiring.

Please join me as we ride the waves of creativity....

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expession, created this ultra-cool piece.

"Well when presented with this theme I thought and thought and got Surfin' Bird stuck in my head so rather than fight it I decided to make this admittedly silly keychain," said Althea. "I'm concerned that I'll have to rework it since the pen seems to have bled but it's at least potentially finished now so here it is!"

http://www.salvagedexpression.etsy.com

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this stunnng piece, play time in progress.

"My project here might not look much like surfing, but I was thinking of bubbles and those crazy-colorful creatures in the deep sea . . . yeah . . . are you buying my argument? ;)" said Amanda. "This week I experimented with a technique I've long wanted to try--painting coffee filters! I plan to add more layers of color, then add some gloss gel, punch holes in them, and hang them like suncatchers."

http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Maureen, a super talented artist, created this gorgeous piece.

"This week I carried the prompt around with me a few days . . anything ocean-related is an automatic fav . . then Saturday I had to be at a challenging family gathering--it called into question who I was, what my worth was, etc." said Maureen. "I started work on this watercolor with wax resist to help heal myself. By Sunday night, my last step was to shake salt all over the lush wetness--I figured that tears/salt water could be part of my art, if it was to be part of my life . . I love the effect they left. Today I added the last few highlights . . the smallest part, but the bluest part, is me. I might seem dwarfed by the waves, but I'm really curled inside them, having a great ride!!! I think I"m kind of daring the surf to just TRY and dump me!!"

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created these sensational pieces.

"Ride Never Tame - Between tsunamis & the world's wild, restless waves, humans will never completely tame the oceans," said Bird.

"Surf & Turf - Have you ever felt this way? I know I have."

Blog: An Encouraging Bird - www.anencouragingbird.com
www.crowtarottours.com - In Progress
Talismans by CrowTarot - www.crowtarot.etsy.com
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

This week, I played with watercolors. I have found I LOVE playing with the color. I'm reaching a new point in my life where I'm working exceptionally hard to throw off the shackles of fear and go for what I want. Although the perspective is off, I love this piece because it celebrates the desire, the almost unbearable need to break free. It also represents the colors I saw and felt when I was surfing...can't wait to get back to it!

http://www.doodlestar.etsy.com

Are you feeling inspired to ride the wave of creativity? If you are then grab hold of the next theme - "Ladybug Luck. " Here we will try to capture the magic and "luck" idea behind these tiny wonders. The only requirement is that you have to use red and black in some way within your piece.

Oh the Characters You'll Meet: a Writing, Art journaling, Doodling, Story-telling Online course begins May 17th, 2010!

2010-05-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

I’m so thrilled to share this with you. I was asked by several of my students from the “Oh the Stories You’ll Tell” workshop to put together a Part 2. Well, after some work, I’m proud to present Part 2 to this course. You do not have to have taken part one to take this class but it would help if you had a few pieces of writing or art journaling that you’d like to bring to this class and work on.

How many times have you started a blog post about an incredible new product or shop and it fell flat? How often have you started to write a story – you knew the plot and setting and were raring to go – only to find that it felt like it was missing one essential element?

Without characters, we have no stories and without stories we are lost. Think about any day in your life and you will realize that all we do is tell stories. As people we are all interested in one another, in what connects us, in what makes us unique. Whether you are writing a blog post or a memoir, a novella or an essay, characters are the heart and soul of the work. As artists, writers, crafters and creative folks of all kinds making a presence online it is especially important to craft compelling stories.

In this 4-week course, “Oh the Characters You’ll Meet”, we will explore the characters in your life –past and present, including you, – and work on building solid stories with them. Through the creation of a character journal that will be loads of fun to fill, you will build a base of characters that you will be able to call upon long after the class has drawn to a close.

Within this limited enrollment class, you will write, paint, collage and doodle your way to:

- Becoming more present in your daily life as you notice more and more of the richness within the people around you

- Developing a deeper connection with family, friends, clients, business colleagues and more people in life

- Discovering more about you as well as a new clarity to see other people in your life from family members and friends to clients and fellow bloggers

- Learning to capture what you *hear* and *see* and incorporate it into the heart of your stories

- Experiencing perspective shifts as you journey through fun, creative writing and art journaling activities

- Chatting, laughing and talking shop with a community of fellow writers and artists

In this course, you will partake in:

- daily writing activities (specifically designed to fit into your everyday life)

- fun doodling activities you can do anywhere – even on the go

- weekly art journaling activities (includes the use of photos, painting, collaging and much more)

- weekly video prompts filled with inspiration and tips for enriching your writing and art

- Live weekly chats on writing and art topics with fellow creative people

- Personal attention from Natasha tailored to fit the needs of your work

People visit blogs, read books, magazines and newspapers and return to shops because of the stories and the characters – even when character is setting – because characters make the stories captivating. Learning to harness what you see or capture that striking bit of dialogue that will add magic to your piece is what we will strive to find as we create works of art in this class.

Please join me on this extraordinary journey that will allow you to enhance both your writing and art thereby allowing you to have an even more powerful impact personal and professional life – online and off.

When you sign up for the workshop, you will receive an email within 24 hours that will provide you with more information about a private site where we will be working together. The cost of this course is $40 and it will begin on May 17th, 2010.

About Natasha

Natasha has been writing since the day her mom put a journal in her hand at age four. She received her MFA in writing from the New School in New York City before spending time as Marketing and Development Director for a nonprofit and later, freelance writer creating promotional materials for small businesses. Natasha assisted in creating original curriculum pieces for a private school in Manhattan before being invited to teach writing and editing workshops for some of the students. She has taught writing and photojournalism workshops for teenagers and written for publications such as Family Circle, Latina, Lifetips and MediaBistro.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at Natasha@creativenachos.com

Happy Birthday to ....Amazing Artists and Artworks!!

2010-05-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to Your Creations, Happy Birthday Everyday, Happy Birthday to Youuuuu and many more.

Every day can feel like a birthday when you celebrate what's within you by simply creating. That's what these artists did - they celebrated their heart, their inner beauty, their vibrance and love of life. These works will make you want to create and embrace all that is within - today and everyday.

Come on...let's celebrate!

Kelsey, creator of Caffeinated Frenzy, shared "The Birthday Girl," Work in progress wool scarf.

"I've come to realize that at my best, I tend to be, well, conceited," said Kelsey. "Things are usually about me in my mind. So naturally, this scarf reflects myself :)"

kelsey@caffeinatedfrenzy.com
http://www.caffeinatedfrenzy.com

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this awesome piece.

"For this week's challenge I decided to go hunting through my wax stash," said Althea. "What's more birthday-ish than candles after all? I found some wax that while it looks like really tasty cupcake icing isn't really birthday-ish at all. I call it Secret Birthday."

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com

Amanda,creator of Persistent Green, created this breathtaking Untitled mixed media in progress.

"Okay, so my abstract piece might not look much like a birthday celebration . . . but maybe our party is at the beach, and we're playing in sunshine and ocean," said Amanda. "Or perhaps our celebration is an outdoor barbecue, with brilliant blue sky and piercing sun. Or . . . mabe I just wanted to play with color!"

http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Maureen, a talented artist, created this gorgeous work.

"I've been intrigued by the effects Amanda has been getting with watercolor over oil pastels, so decided to give it a try," said Maureen. "Celebrations for me always mean joy, so that what I was trying capture in this 9x9 picture."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created this beautiful piece.

"Every day, if you think about it, is another birthday. We are constantly reborn to ourselves... and to those around us," said Bird. "This quote came from the blog 'The World's Strongest Librarian', and its creator, Josh Hanagarne. It caught me hardcore & wouldn't let me be until I'd found a place for it.Here's the post from which it came: http://worldsstrongestlibrarian.com/5985/how-to-have-tourettes-part-22-every-second-is-a-choice Amazing stuff."

"Apologies for the text quality. It was a bit delicate for the resize to take well. I fiddled with it a bit, but it's a work in progress."

blog: http://www.AnEncouragingBird.com
www.crowtarottours.com - In Progress
Talismans by CrowTarot - www.crowtarot.etsy.com
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

Natasha, creator of Doodlestar, created these pieces.

This flower was born after a Play-doh session with my little one. I just fell in love with the colors and it made me think about how we are all so unique. We are all so filled with color and light!

The frame was an accident. I started painting it and just love what happened when I stopped thinking about how it had to be and let it just be. It needs gloss but the colors make me so happy.

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

Are you excited to create?? Well, good then dive on into the next theme: Surfing the High Seas of Life - what does it mean to surf though art, life, crafts? Share the colors, the excitement, the ride as you see or feel it. You don't ever have to have surfed to bring this one to life - all you have to do is imagine and dream! Oh and you have to include a swirl of color somewhere within your work!

In a Season of Change

2010-05-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

I am that woman who picks through Ben and Jerry’s Half-baked Frozen Yogurt for the pieces of cookie dough. I admit it. There is an almost zen-like quality to my hunt; I find the same kind of peace when I doodle. But last night, as I dug through, I had a thought, revelation. Are there really any revelations or do we always know the answers and find them when we are ready to face them? Ah a question to ponder over frozen yogurt or ice cream.

For the last 7 months my belly has been growing with a new life. During that time I have been chasing my other little around, playing on the TST, teaching classes and carving out a career path that not only makes sense for me but for my family as well. In recent weeks, I’ve begun to think/worry/ponder ways to consolidate my work so that I’m not so spread out. I love this space. I love the art we all create. I love writing and sharing. I want to be here. So, it struck me….combine blogs into one larger website. Duh! Isn’t that what I wanted to do like a year ago? Yes but I wasn’t ready. As I prepare for major changes, I find I am ready.

I firmly believe we need to do things in our own time. I wasn’t ready last year. I didn’t know what to do. To be honest, I flounder a lot like a fish out of water before I make leaps. Freak outs are common in this household as are the days of questions like – who cares what you do? Or who do you think you are to be (insert any answer here) creating, writing, teaching…the list goes on as my Inner Critic sometimes oversteps her boundaries – bitch. LOL! It’s nothing a pint of ice cream/frozen yogurt and some creative art-making can’t cure.

But the thing is I love being here. I love learning from you all and sharing. So, this week things are going to change around here. There will be a new larger site with info about classes (some SUPER fun ones coming WOOOHOOO), me, the TST, Nachos (my original blog). I’m going to share a little more of my life and hope you will join me in sharing, venting, creating, and laughing.

Thanks for sticking by me for all this time. You have brought me inspiration during pity parties (I try not to send out invites for those), laughter in times of great pain and love. I so enjoy you and hope you will continue to play as I expand this space, combine things, stumble, kvetch, laugh, scream and dance around.

Are you with me?? I promise to share my Ben and Jerry’s even though come cookie dough might be missing…LOL!

Love,
A Crazy Crafting Preggo Artist who Loves to Write

Magnificent Artists Gather to Create Amazing New Works of Art

2010-04-29T08:45:00.001-07:00

These talented, professional, creative, inspiring artists who gathered together today have created some of the most beautiful works of art. In choosing one theme from the 54 themes we have done here at the Thursday Sweet Treat, they created pieces that are gorgeous, fun, engaging and sensational.

Please join me on a tour of these brand new pieces of art...you will want to take each one home with you right now. I guarantee it :)

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this awesome piece for the theme, The Music Within.

"For the second readers choice I picked the music theme from the week before last," said Althea. "I had almost finished this hat in time for that theme but I wasn't happy with the notes so I'm glad I had a chance to rework them and show off the result! I call this hat "song stuck in my head" because I'm a cheeseball."

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com

Maureen, a talented artist, created these gorgeous pieces.

"Remember the week we had Polka Dot Dancing for our theme?" asked Maureen. "That must have been running through my head this week. I've started doodling a little before I go to bed each night, in a tiny 3 1/2 inch square book I keep bedside. I have NEVER been a "polka dot" person, but darned if those little rascals aren't finding their way into just about every nightdoodle . . here are the last three."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this stunning Untitled mixed media in progress.

"This week I chose to play with Where the Wild Things Bloom," said Amanda. "In a season of growth and change in my life, I appreciate more than ever the symbolism of flowers and anything that blooms--no matter how abstract! I'm still working on layering colors in this piece."

http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Bird, creator of Crow Tarot Tours, created this fantastic piece.

"Take a beautiful sunny day, a dog having too much fun lying in it, soaking up da rayz, add in half a captcha, and what do you get?" asked Bird. "This pic, taken just today, of my beautiful Bailey, and an entry for the 'Sun' TST. Not only is the Sun in there by virtue of sunlight, but there is also a little dandelion in the pic just to add more sunny radiance. :-)"

www.crowtarottours.com - In Progress
Talismans by CrowTarot - www.crowtarot.etsy.com
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this ring for the Explosive Celebration theme.

I think this ring could actually be a cross between the Explosive Celebration theme and Polka Dot Dancing (polka dots have invaded my world as well as Maureen's and I love it.) This ring is a celebration of the wild colors that dance around within us all...remember to always be YOU, colorful YOU!

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

Are you feeling super inspired???

Well, the next theme is "Birthday Celebration". Whether it's the love of cake, candles, sparklers or the whole birthday celebration feeling, I invite you to capture it all in a new piece.

Theme 54: Participant's Choice - the Sequel

2010-04-23T08:06:00.002-07:00

This past week, artists, writers, crafters and creative folks of all kinds were invited to choose one of the 53 themes that have been done since this blog started. There was such a positive response from folks who wanted to play and from those that did, several said they had a hard time choosing one. So, I say - let's do it again!

Please feel free to review all of the themes and then choose one that you would like to create something for. Please note the themes are listed on the sidebar on the right side of this blog.

It's important to note that this differs slightly from the Mini-Monthly in that your submission cannot be something that you already started. You may have seen a theme and thought of an idea but not started the work on it. Your submission needs to be something you will begin working on now. All themes are up for grabs so dive in and if you find something in the archives that you are passionate about - go for it!

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, April 28th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, April 29th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one) and theme it was created for

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, play, have fun and create something you've always wanted to!

Exceptional Artists Choose Themes That Truly Showcase Their Unbelievable Talent!

2010-04-22T08:20:00.001-07:00

This week, folks were invited to choose one of the 53 themes we have worked on and create a new piece. Perhaps it was a theme that they loved but just didn't have time to create for when the theme was revealed. Whatever the reasons that kept them away, they came back to create and their creations highlight the truly professional, inspiring, and captivating qualities within their work. These artists captured beauty that will make you cheer and long to create something right now.

Please join me on a tour of these fabulous works and leave a little love for these terrific artists!

Maureen, a talented artist, created this beautiful piece for the theme, "Poetic Seas".

"For our Choice week, I chose Poetic Seas--at least, I THINK that was one of our prompts!! A full week keeps me from scanning the list of topics . . anyhoo, in the e-class I'm taking from Co-Teachers Natasha and Amanda, I have been introduced to Doodling, and am just loving it . . .so with my juicy markers, and later, a little colored pencil, I just let myself doodle what a sunny day at my beloved ocean feels like. And yes, those are cardinals winging through my ocean sky, and I KNOW cardinals aren't seabirds . . but they were my mom's favorite, and I've been thinking of her a lot (she passed on 30 years ago) and anyhoo, I have my very own "artistic license" that says I can stick cardinals over the ocean if I want to!!""

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Kelsey, creator of Caffeinated Frenzy, created this gorgeous scarf made out of recycled silk and beads for the theme, "The Music Within."

"This scarf (currently a work in progress) is based off of my old music teacher, she's not always one for glitz and glam, but her personality looks just like this!" said Kelsey.

http://www.caffeinatedfrenzy.com/

Jodi, creator of Jodi Horgan - Beaded Art to Wear, created this stellar piece for the theme, "Those Tropical Colors Just Made Me...".

"When you announced this theme I just happened to be in the tropics (Cayman Islands to be exact). I was full of ideas based on what I saw during our trip," said Jodi. "Turquoise is one of my favorite colors to work with and it reminds me of the color of the ocean in the Caymans. I've been incorporating silk soutache trim into a lot of my work lately. This theme gave me the perfect opportunity to use this beautiful cabochon from Lisa Peter's Art (LisaPetersArt.etsy.com) and combine it with turquoise soutache and beads."

http://www.jodihorgan.etsy.com/

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this phenomenal piece for the Hawaiian theme.

"For my readers choice project I chose the Hawiian theme," said Althea. "The sun has finally started to shine out here in a summer like fashion and I couldn't resist taking a little trip back to the islands with this pendant!"

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com/

Bird, creator of CrowTarotTours, created this stunning piece for the theme "Flowers for a Friend", as it is a gift for someone.

"Speaking of gifts, I want to say how much I appreciate all the wonderful comments folk have left about my last few entries," said Bird. "What a wonderful treat to come to today! I only had a few moments to look, but the work you've all been doing is just amazing. Another reason now to look forward to our launch - so that I can come back & dive more deeply into these wondrous works. :-)"

http://www.crowtarottours.com/ - In Progress
Talismans by CrowTarot found at http://www.crowtarot.etsy.com/
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this magnificent untitled mixed media in progress for the theme, "Explosive Celebration".

"I chose Explosive Celebration for this week's expression, since that's how I feel!" said Amanda. "My life is growing and changing in ways I never expected. Even though there are moments of pain and struggle, the celebration is definitely winning out!"

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/persistentgreen

Natasha, creator of Doodlestar, created this piece for the theme, "Vibrant Chaotic Rainbow."

I feel as though colors and celebration are exploding within and all around me. This theme captured that feeling so I created a little ring to celebrate the moments of chaotic, blissful beauty.

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

Are you inspired to create even more now??? Well so am I! In fact, there was such a response to this theme from folks who participated and those that wanted to that I'm doing it again. Yup...rewind! Let's do it again one more time.....

The next theme is "Participant's Choice The Sequel". If you have loved a theme and want to create now you can play with it!! PLAY!!

Imagine Friends...

2010-04-20T09:16:00.001-07:00

Do you prefer having a group of friends or one, true blue friend?

Theme 53: Participant's Choice

2010-04-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

PARTICIPANT'S CHOICE

There have been a total of 53 themes since this blog started. Please feel free to review all of them and then choose one that you would like to create something for. Please note the themes are listed on the sidebar on the right side of this blog.

It's important to note that this differs slightly from the Mini-Monthly in that your submission cannot be something that you already started. You may have seen a theme and thought of an idea but not started the work on it. Your submission needs to be something you will begin working on now. All themes are up for grabs so dive in and if you find something in the archives that you are passionate about - go for it!

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, April 21st if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, April 22nd. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, dive in to something you truly wanted to create!

Amazing Artists Create New Works That Will Make You Want to Dance Around in Celebration of Life

2010-04-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS: I'm so sorry I haven't been around. I've been swamped with a new class but I will be around more starting next week. Thank you as always for sticking with me!!

This week, music moved these incredibly talented, amazing, professional artists to create works that will make you want to dance around. The colors, the movement within the pieces and the styles are something to celebrate.

Please boogie through these amazing works with me...

Jodi, creator of Jodi Horgan - Beaded Art to Wear, created these gorgeous Silk Soutache Trim Earrings.

www.jodihorgan.etsy.com

Maureen, a talented artist, created this stellar work.

"This week, I thought about how music makes me feel . . . how it stirs the very middle of me and spirals out . . the color choice surprised me. Not what I intended, but it is what my hands chose, for this 9x9 watercolor with wax resist," said Maureen.

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Amanda,creator of Persistent Green, created this phenomenal Untitled mixed media piece.

"My favorite part of attending a concert is feeling the vibration in my feet and through my body, like a second heartbeat," said Amanda. "Music has really shaped my creative life and been a constant companion and comfort. My piece today reflects how my favorite music makes me feel--vibrant, alive, and ready to dance!"

http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this art journal page.

I thought - music - and this was born :)

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

Are you inspired to let your hands move across pages and create works after viewing this week's entries??

Well, then jump into the next theme which is "Participant's Choice". I will be updating the list on the right sidebar of this blog to include all the themes to present but if you have loved any theme and wanted to create now you can play with it!!

Sensational Artists Create the Most Magnificent Carnival

2010-04-09T09:38:00.000-07:00

This week, these talented, professional, imaginative, sensational artists made me want to go to a carnival or turn everything in my life into a carnival of light, color and celebration. This feast for the eyes celebrates the playful side of ourselves, the side that embraces those around us saying, "Let's have fun. Let's enjoy life."

Please join me on a wonderful carnvial ride!

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this gorgeous piece.

"I call it fairground night," said Althea. "On one hand it's a shout out to all those who prefer to ride the big rides at night and look at all the colorful lights as they streak past. On the other hand it's a big excuse to use as much colored glitter as possible in one project. Potato - Potato."

http://Salvagedexpression.etsy.com

Maureen, a talented artist, created this stunning piece.

"Here's my best effort at fireworks, with my watercolors, wax resist, and blowing through a straw . . somehow the sparkle of fireworks is something I associate with carnivals .. but this didn't come out too sparkly. It's the best I could do on 1 1/2hours of sleep!" said Maureen.

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Iris, creator of Iris O'Connor, created these sensational pieces.

"When someone says Carnival to me the first thing I think of is colour," said Iris. "Needless to say I took a photo when I passed those...whatchamightcallthem?....round things with awful sweet stuff inside.
They look good though :D...

and the rabbit shot was just pure luck, which goes to show you never know who you might bump into in 'the Carnival of life'".

Etsy shop:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/irisoconnor

blog:
http://www.irisoconnor.blogspot.com/

my flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/irisdesign/

Amanda, created this magnificent Untitled mixed media, watercolor and oil pastel.

"The idea of carnival, to me, evokes bright and flashy color and bold lines," said Amanda. "I've been very busy with preparation for the e-course I'm teaching with Natasha (we start next week! See more info in the TST sidebar or at my blog), so it was a joy to spend time just playing with color today. Now I need some cotton candy and funnel cake!"

http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/persistentgreen

Do you feel like celebrating all that's within you? Then join in on the fun.

The next theme is.........."The Music Within". Celebrate music!

A Delay

2010-04-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

Helloooo all you fabulous TST-ers! Due to an unavoidable event the TST will be delayed one day and will return on Friday, April 9th. I'm very sorry for any inconvenience! See you all then :)

Friendship, Flowers and Exceptional Art Blossom in the Hands of These Talented Artists

2010-04-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

ANNOUNCEMENT: There is a fabulous, new blog that was launched by an incredibly talented writer that you have to check out. Hiccups in Time...is a blog that will change your perspective about life. It will make you think. It will warm your heart. It will make you get up and leap for joy. Please drop by, become a follower and leave a little love for this writer who is bound to be a hit in blogland!

As the flowers and trees begin to come back to life and we venture outside to play with friends who, like some of us, have been hibernating this winter, we celebrate the magic and color that each bring to our lives. The amazing artists whose works are represented here created pieces that will make you want to pick up the phone and call that friend you just love hanging out with. You might even want to ask them to meet so you can pick some flowers!

Enjoy the joy that blossoms within while you stroll through this friend and flower garden :)

Maureen, a talented artist, created this lovely piece.

"This 9x9 bouquet of flowers "for a friend" ended up being given to me!!--I needed a boost last night, and painting to our prompt was perfect," said Maureen. "I'm experimenting with outlining lately, and I thought I was using a permanent black marker . . but I like the bleeds that surprised me when watercolor met washable marker."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created this gorgeous piece titled, “A single rose”.

"Not much to say about this one except that I LOVELOVELOVE my roses and I LOVELOVELOVE my friends and I can’t wait for my roses to bloom!" said Felicia.

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea

http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

Iris, creator of Iris O'Connor, created these stunning pieces.

"I don't have a garden where I live but I'm lucky enough to look after the house of a really nice couple when they are away and they have a garden which is just beginning to burst into colour," said Iris. "So, I threw myself down on the grass last Saturday and took a few photos. Sometimes you have to get down and dirty to get a different perspective ;)Hope you like them:D"

Blog:
http://www.irisoconnor.blogspot.com/

Etsy shop:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/irisoconnor

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this magnificent Untitled mixed media in progress.

"I'm still working on this one, but had a blast in the short amount of time I was able to spend on it," said Amanda. "Wild color and flowers--right up my alley! By the way, there are seats left in Natasha's and my e-course, so be sure to check it out if you're interested in finding your inner WILD child and letting her play (see my blog or the TST sidebar)!"

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/persistentgreen

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

This art journal page was inspired by a talented artist/writer, Janet Davies after reading her piece about a fascinating bird's nest and my daughter who wakes and says hello to the birds in a nest outside our window every morning. Thank you for being an inspiration in my life. Friendship, flowering trees, and lots of love :)

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

The words on the piece read:

"It's a new day. Let's makeup a song, come on..."

"Do these feathers make me look fat?"

"The leaves are STILL laughing at something the wind said...wish they'd share the joke."

"Oh doesn't that sun feel good? Let's go to the park for a nice meal!"

"Did you bring home another business card? What are we going to DO with all these cards? They're not menus you know! We can't order out."

"Hey, is out crap really full of good luck?"

Do you feel the creativity, the ideas, the excitement to create blossoming within you?

Well, the next theme is.........."Carnival of Life". Celebrate the movement, music, color, and magic of a carnival!

Imagine Creating...

2010-03-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

a document that finally convinces people to stop over-fishing or hunting animals into extinction

Or the one that unites races?

Which would you rather create?

The Creative Playground: an e-course Beginning on April 14th!

2010-03-27T07:04:00.000-07:00

Get up, do your work, go to bed. Get up, do your work, go to bed. Do you ever feel like a stale piece of bread, just sitting around waiting for something that will never happen? Do you ever long for the days where all you needed to do was wake up and play with your imagination?

Letting your inner wild child out to play can be a little unnerving. After all, we are supposed to be sophisticated, serious adults of the world, are we not? We get up, do our work and go to bed in a responsible fashion, only to get up and do it again the next day and the next day and the next. Well, do you know what Natasha and Amanda have to say to that? BOOOOO! Wouldn’t life be so much more fulfilling and fun if we were adults filled with childlike wonder and a desire for mini-adventures that feed our hearts, minds and imaginations?

Keeping your inner child alive and letting him or her play is the smartest thing you can do for yourself, both personally and professionally! Why, you ask? Well, aside from the fact that play leads to experimentation which leads to new, creative ideas, a good dose of playtime and fun does wonders for the body. Imagine tuning into your inner child, carving out some much needed personal playtime and immediately reducing the stress in your life. Imagine sharing your new discoveries with friends and family and inspiring them to play with you, thus deepening connections. Well, you don’t have to imagine anymore. That place exists. It’s called The Creative Playground.

The Creative Playground is a four-week e-course that invites you to play, create, dream and share with your fearless leaders, “Creative Nacho” Natasha and “Persistent Green” Amanda. Enjoy twenty daily exercises and eight videos that will spark your imagination. When you reconnect with your favorite childhood crafts, learn some inspiring new ones and then journal about your playtime experiences in your personal Playbook (a fabulous, scrapbook-like journal that will accompany you on this journey and remain with you long after, a treasured friend and keepsake), you will bring childlike wonder and free-spirited fun back into your daily life. You’ll also be able to gather with your Playground buddies at a private community space, where you can share photos of your creations and enjoy inspiring conversation. All of this, along with personal attention and encouraging feedback from both leaders, will enhance your relationships and add a new fire to every area of your life.

The cost of this course is $60 and it begins on Wednesday, April 14th, 2010. Enrollment is limited, so sign up soon. Come find your inner wild child at the Creative Playground!

About Natasha

Natasha, also known as “Creative Nacho,” has been writing since the day her mom put a journal in her hand at age four. She received her MFA in writing from the New School in New York City before spending time as Marketing and Development Director for a nonprofit and later as freelance writer, creating promotional materials for small businesses. Natasha assisted in creating original curriculum pieces for a private school in Manhattan before being invited to teach writing and editing workshops for some of the students. She has taught writing and photojournalism workshops for teenagers and written for publications such as Family Circle, Latina, Lifetips and MediaBistro. In addition, one of her pieces lives in the Library of Congress. In 2009, she made her dream come true of making a living doing both crafting and writing together when she opened DoodleStar, her personal creative playground. When she’s not playing professionally, she can be found playing at home with her mischievous husband and lovable daughter they like to call Doodle.

About Amanda

Amanda Fall, also known as “Persistent Green,” is only now letting her inner wild child come out and play. She was a serious and painfully shy little girl for the most part, except for the occasional eccentricity like refusing to take off her rainbow-colored swimsuit. She did, however, love to play games of imagination, along with reading anything she could get her hands on, writing, drawing, and creating elaborate doll-worlds. After sixteen years of homeschooling, Amanda graduated early and earned her GED. She discovered a passion for the visual arts at Black Hills State University, eventually graduating magna cum laude in 2007 with an art major and sociology minor. She is a long-time member of the nationally recognized writer’s group Bearlodge Writers, and her award-winning writing and artwork have appeared in numerous publications and exhibits. She lives with her husband and oddball cat in Spearfish, South Dakota, working full-time as artist and writer. Amanda owns and operates Persistent Green, a small business with big heart that offers wildly colorful handmade goods and artwork.

Theme 50: Flowers for a Friend

2010-03-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

And here is one of my favorite, favorite songs and videos. Please listen to it. It might seem more geared toward a couple in a relationship but truly it can be applied anyone. There's something about the idea of You and Me together that makes me fill with happiness and hope. We can make anything happen. What a great idea! Hug someone you love today.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, March 31st if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, April 1st. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, celebrate the way flowers and friendships blossom!

Happiness, Color, Celebration - These Artist Works Have All of That and a Whole Lot More!

2010-03-25T08:06:00.000-07:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS: When you have a moment, please visit Amanda's blog, Persistent Green, to hear more about an exciting project we have been working on! There will be more about it on this blog this weekend!

The works created for this theme will make you rejoice. It will make you lean into your computer screen to breathe in the colors. It will make you hug someone just a little tighter today. It will make you want to dance in the streets. This theme is love, color, Spring and celebration.

These artists created some of the most magnificent pieces. You will want to take them all home, to wear them, hang them and treasure them forever. A BIG thank you to these professional, talented artists. This work is simply fantastic.

Come bask in a bit of color and a whole lot of happiness....

Iris, creator of Iris O'Connor, created these delightful bits of beauty. (I'd also like to welcome Iris back! She was one of the first TST players when I started this and she's been very missed!)

"The houses are cut out of timber now so they are proper little houses with a nice little story to go with it," said Iris. "The houses in the photo need some minor details done to them - like 2 coats of varnish - but they will be available in my shop from early next week."

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38943609
that's a link to one of the Ballinasnoot houses with the story in my Etsy shop :D

My blog:
http://www.irisoconnor.blogspot.com/

Maureen, a talented artist, created this truly stunning piece.

"Happiness is a . . . box (or two) of new markers. Results: 11 x 17 inches of pure joy," said Maureen.

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Jodi Horgan, creator of Beaded Art to Wear, created this magnificent piece.

"Happiness is SPRING," said Jodi. "I've been thinking a lot about flowers. Beautiful green shoots are starting to poke their heads out of the ground. I created this "flower" ring with silk soutache trim, crystals and beads."

http://www.jodihorgan.etsy.com/

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this mixed media art journal page titled, "Happiness is Here."

"Happiness, for me, is remembering to be grateful for THIS moment--not always leaning into the future, or backwards to the past," said Amanda. "If onlys and someday-whens can destroy finding peace and joy right here, right now. So, happiness is here!"

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Natasha, creator of Doodlestar, created this piece.

"I LOVE the way the background in this piece came out. The colors are what's within me - the longing and wish for Spring. But the people fell short LOL. I will be reworking but I had SUCH fun playing."

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

Has viewing all these colorful treasures made you want to create something new??

Well, the next theme is.........."Flowers for a Friend". Celebrate the beauty and blossoming of flowers and friendship!

Imagine Gifts...

2010-03-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Would you rather receive a little present in the mail everyday from someone you like

OR

A big present once a year in the mail from someone you love?

Theme 49: Happiness is a ....

2010-03-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

The only requirement within this theme is that you need to use an assortment of colors...think rainbows and happiness :)

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, March 24th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, March 25th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, color yourself happy!

The New Works of Talented, Exceptional Artists Make You Long to Lie Under Blue Skies and Dream

2010-03-18T12:43:00.000-07:00

Each of these pieces made me want to jump out of my chair, run to the park, lay on a field of grass, close my eyes and let my imagination paint its own blue sky. These sensationally talented artists celebrate the blue sky that exists within their heart and mind.

Let us bask in the dreams created when we gaze upon a blue sky...

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this magnificent untitled art journal collage.

"Wow, this week went by fast!" said Amanda. "I'm not too thrilled with my submission--can't expect much more, since I gave myself so little time to play. Oh well, it was still nice to take a few minutes (after a wonderful walk in the sunshine) and be grateful for blue blue sky."

http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen
http://PersistentGreen.blogspot.com

Felicia, creator of Another Bright Idea, created this phenomenal piece titled, “Celebrate children”.

"While working on an assignment for Natasha’s writing course, I spent some time at a new children’s park in the city today," said Felicia. "I loved the park, but one thing that struck me was that on the list of donors plaque some families had included quotes or short phrases. So I pulled the phrases out and turned them into an imaginary signpost for the park, set against a blue sky, of course! (I wrote about the park in more detail on my blog: http://feliciakramer.blogspot.com/2010/03/wednesday-in-park.html)"

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com

Maureen, a talented artist, created this wonderful piece.

"This week, my 'peaceful, bluesky, relaxed' piece started out because I was either really really mad or really really sad--can't remember which!! Wise daughter, aka Amanda/Persistent Green, told me to PAINT!" said Maureen. "I had only 5 minutes before I had to head out the door, so I scribbled with the wax resist crayon and literally slapped on paint. Later that night and the next day, I layered more paint. As soon as I scribbled the wax resist, I KNEW the final design would be pleasing. Something in my gut was saying that the mad/sad was NOT in charge, but my native love and joy WAS. Then, the last touch was adding the words. I wish these colors copied better, because the original has luscious islandly turquoises . . oh well."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created this unforgettable piece.

"Natasha, here's to your Spring!" said Trina. "I hope it comes soon, too. My contribution to the wish is a sterling silver flower that I hand formed from wire. I added blue and white dangles for color."

http://wovenchains.etsy.com

Natasha, creator of Doodlestar, created a new journal.

This journal is all about playing and daydreaming. It is not finished. I'm laying down the fabric later today but the inside is done and I wanted you to see the cover. Blue sky dreams :)

http://doodlestar.etsy.com

Has viewing all these blue sky wonders made you want to challenge yourself to create something new??

Well, the next theme is.........."Happiness is a ...". The only requirement within this theme is that you need to use an assortment of colors...think rainbows and happiness :)

Imagine One Year Where

2010-03-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

you either had to skip your birthday

Too Nice to Slice

OR

skip your favorite holiday?

Which would you choose?

Phenomenal Artists Celebrate the Best of Dr. Seuss By Taking You to Their Own Magic Places

2010-03-13T15:05:00.000-08:00

Please forgive my delay in getting this up. This week was one of the craziest, overwhelming weeks I've ever had! I didn't even get my piece finished and I know that several other artists didn't get a chance to finish for various reasons so you can expect to see a Mini-monthly soon with more Seuss.

This theme was inspired by the lovely and talented Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry. Thank you Trina for inviting all of these amazing, professional artists to share the incredible magic within them as they celebrate the best of Dr. Seuss.

Now, journey with me and wonders you will see...

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created this gorgeous piece titled, “Finding time”.

"I don’t know how many times a day I find myself saying, “I have to find the time to do that.” Sometimes the to-do list seems insurmountable, but I usually do find the time," said Felicia. "So I guess I share Dr. Suess’s “irrepressible belief in what is possible.”

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this unforgettable mixed media art journal page, "Soul Traveler."

"Trina, thanks so much for this theme!" said Amanda. "Honestly, I was really stumped at first, until I decided to start playing with colors and shapes...then the phrase just popped into my head. I love the idea of traveling the roads of the soul, so thanks for helping me reach this destination!"

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PersistentGreen

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created this exceptional piece.

"First, thanks so much for letting me be the one to choose this weeks theme," said Trina. "What a pleasure! I am so totally excited to see what you all have come up with. I decided to "go" somewhere I've never gone with wire work...instead of manipulating rings, I bent wire into a spiral, and then textured it with a hammer (I never realized how satisfying all that pounding would be). Then I embellished the spiral with words that are meaningful to me -- Teach, Live, and Wish -- as well as a Dragonfly. There's just a bit of chainmaille hiding in there, too."

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Maureen, a talented artist, created this sensational 11x14 watercolor.

“AnnieMae is excited about the places she might go: toward radiant sunshine? an urban landscape? toward a brick wall which might be obstacle, or opportunity?" said Maureen. "This 11x14 watercolor is a page in the journal Maureen is using for the splendiferous on-line art course she is taking, taught by none other than the magnificent Miss TST herself, aka Natasha."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

After viewing this incredible, unique TST are you ready to challenge yourself to create something new??

Well, the next theme is.........."Blue Sky". In celebratin of blue skies that will be coming to us soon (please Spring!) this theme requires that you use some blue and maybe a few wisps of white. Imagine you are laying back looking up at the sky...relax, breathe and celebrate warmth and peace within :)

Important TST Update

2010-03-10T09:08:00.000-08:00

If you haven't had a chance to weight in on the Imagine post below please take a peek. It's a fun one!

MOVE OVER

It appears that this Thursday I will be unable to be around to play BOOO!! But I will return on Friday as will the TST. So if you are currently making a piece for tomorrow you get 1 more day YAY!!!!!

Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. I will see you, the TST and the new theme on Friday, March 12th.

Happy Crafting Everyone!!

Imagine Being ...

2010-03-08T13:50:00.000-08:00

in a Ringling Brothers and Barnum Bailey Circus

Or would you rather be in Cirque du Soleil ?

Theme 48: "Oh the Places You'll Go" (Happy Birthday, Dr. Suess!)

2010-03-05T06:16:00.000-08:00

"One of the reasons I have always loved Dr. Suess is his irrepressible belief in what is possible for each and every person (or Sneetch)," said Trina. "In his very famous words..."And will you succeed, yes you will indeed, 98 and 3/4% guaranteed". So, this week, find a way to visit some place in yourself that you've always wanted to go, then play and create and come back here to share with all of us."

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, March 10th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, March 11th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, enjoy the places you go!

Phenomenal Artists Find Unique Ways to Make You Fall in Love with Orange

2010-03-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Before we begin I have two important announcements -
1. If you have not had a chance to check out the fun, new e-course that begins on March 10th please do by clicking here.
2. Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, submitted everything this week including a theme idea however she forgot to attach her image. She sent it along last night and I just loaded it in so please scroll down and take a peek.

Orange can be a challenging color to work with especially if it is something an artist does not use often. However, whether the artists represented here loved orange or not, each one rose to the challenge of using it by creating truly outstanding work. In some cases we are invited to simply enjoy the work while in others, the artists have a question and they'd love to hear from you. In all cases, you are invited to celebrate the lovely pieces these professional artists created.

I commend each and every artist for tackling this theme and creating works that are exceptional.

Please join me as we explore orange and a cirle or two :)

Maureen, a talented artist, created this beautiful piece.

"I didn't stray much from the 'orange blossom' prompt," said Maureen. "Something in me hungers so for flowery growing things. This 9x9 watercolor/wax resist just popped out on Friday and Saturday--the soonest I've ever done a TST after reading the prompt!!"

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Amanda,creator of Persistent Green, created this gorgeous mixed media collage titled, "Turn Back".

"I'm still working on this one--lots going on these days, so it was nice to take time out just to play with color and my favorite gel medium," said Amanda. "There are circles here, honest! Take a peek at the abstract flowers--they're built on circles."

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://persistentgreen.etsy.com/

Felicia Kramer, created by Another Bright Idea, created this colorful, unforgettable Framed Collage titled, “Hello, Let’s Play.”

"I consider this a work in progress; I’m still not satisfied with it, but I haven’t put my finger on why, except that it seems just “too busy” – or maybe it’s all that orange!" said Felicia. "What do you think? I’m sending some detail pix because I’m not sure the dimensional pieces show up that well in the full piece."

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

Teri, creator of Giraffelabel, created this stunning piece which has no name yet (not sure if it will make it into the shop), but it would have to be a girl name.

"So I went with the circle part, and the orange part ended up smaller that I expected. But, there is some orange in there...including the button that I couldn't resist. This shape is totally new for me, and I'm not totally sure how i feel about it...what do you think of the circular bag?"

http://www.giraffelabel.etsy.com/

Bird, creator of CrowTarotTours, created this fabulous piece.

"Orange ball of furr declaring a powerful point-of-blossoming - what could be better than this?" said Bird.

http://www.crowtarottours.com/ - In Progress
Talismans by CrowTarot - http://www.crowtarot.etsy.com/
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created this sensational piece.

"When I hear "orange blossoms" I think of weddings, so I designed a wedding pendant for a bride," said Trina.

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created this piece.

"I started to create this awhile ago and then abandoned it. I came back to play with the flowers - the circles that were originally bubbles turned into a flower and orange played a smaller role than I anticipated. I'm still not satisfied with it. All I know is that it has something to do with pleasant surprises."

http://doodlestar.etsy.com/

After viewing this inspiring, challenging TST are you ready to challenge yourself to create something new??

Well, the next theme was submitted by Trina. The theme is.........."Happy Birthday Dr. Suess". In honor of Dr. Suess and his March 2nd Birthday, this weeks theme is "Oh, the places you'll go."

"One of the reasons I have always loved Dr. Suess is his irrepressible belief in what is possible for each and every person (or Sneetch)," said Trina. "In his very famous words..."And will you succeed, yes you will indeed, 98 and 3/4% guaranteed". So, this week, find a way to visit some place in yourself that you've always wanted to go, then play and create and come back here to share with all of us."

Thank you for this theme, Trina! I'm looking forward to playing :)

If you have an idea for a theme that you'd love to share, please email me at Natasha@creativenachos.com.

An Online Course - Oh the Stories You’ll Tell: A Celebration of You and Your Work Begins March 10th, 2010

2010-03-02T12:26:00.001-08:00

How many times have you thought of sharing a story but stopped yourself? How often have you felt you had nothing to say? How many times have you started to write a product description you were passionate about because you knew the product you created was sensational but chose to play it down or try to “fit in” with everyone else’s lingo?

We don’t celebrate ourselves or the things we do nearly as much as we should and - as artists, writers and crafters making a presence online – it is especially important to do so. Getting your authentic voice out there and being truly proud of it takes courage. It helps to have someone cheering you on and providing the advice and encouragement you may need while working to make your dreams come true. Let me be that personal cheerleader.

“Oh the Stories You’ll Tell” is a 4 week workshop designed to recharge your storytelling and celebrate the true magic in all you do. We will tell stories in all sorts of ways from writing and art journaling to baking and photography. As we explore new and unusual ways to tell our tales, our vision of who we are and what we do will broaden allowing us to find unique ways to represent ourselves and our work in person and online.

Within this limited enrollment class, you will find fun exercises, inspiring prompts and funny videos. In addition, you will interact with members of the group and receive personal attention from Natasha. This course has been designed so that many of the activities will fit within the framework of daily life. In fact, the hope is that it allows all of us to be more present and fulfilled in our day to day lives. In the end, you will have a journal filled with memories of your storytelling journey that you can refer to anytime you feel as though you are losing your way.

If there is one thing I have learned as a writer and artist, it’s that we need to shake up routines, find new ways of looking at things, and find an inspiring and supportive community where we can share our ideas. The Thursday Sweet Treat was founded on the belief artists and writers need a place to dream, support one another and share the work they love to create. This course builds upon this philosophy.

No two stories or the ways in which we tell those stories are alike. We bring a distinctive perspective to all that we do; sometimes we just need to remember that and rejoice.

I hope you will join me on this journey. In the end, we will not only have found a way to stay true to our voice but we will celebrate it in ways that will enhance our personal and professional life.

When you sign up for the workshop, you will receive a link within 24 hours to a private site where we will be working together. I wanted to make this course affordable for all so the cost is $25. It begins on Wednesday, March 10th, 2010.

About Natasha

Natasha has been writing since the day her mom put a journal in her hand at age four. She received her MFA in writing from the New School in New York City before spending time as Marketing and Development Director for a nonprofit and later, freelance writer creating promotional materials for small businesses. Natasha assisted in creating original curriculum pieces for a private school in Manhattan before being invited to teach writing and editing workshops for some of the students. She has taught writing and photojournalism workshops for teenagers and written for publications such as Family Circle, Latina, Lifetips and MediaBistro.

If you have any thoughts, concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at natasha@creativenachos.com. I'm looking forward to having a blast with YOU!

Imagine Singing and Dancing

2010-03-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

So when it comes to singing and dancing, would you rather ...

be caught singing into a hairbrush while looking at yourself in the bathroom mirror

OR

wildly dancing around the livingroom in your underwear?

Theme 47: Orange Blossoms

2010-02-26T14:23:00.000-08:00

Image by Judy Epstein

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, March 3rd if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, March 4th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, enjoy what blossoms in your imagination!

The Tropics as Seen Through the Eyes of Talented, Creative Artists

2010-02-25T08:05:00.000-08:00

What I enjoyed about this theme was the unique road each artist traveled down while creating their pieces. Some drew from memory, others from wonderings but all found an idea that spoke to them and then brought it to life. I'm so moved by the vision each artist shared here; each inspired me to think about the tropics, color and the creation of art in a new way. Thank you to each person for this amazing gift.

Now, please join me on a tour of the tropics.......

Amanda, creator of Persistent Green, created this mixed media artwork (tissue paper, acrylics, gloss gel, watercolor, oil pastel)titled, "Wild Flower."

"My husband and I went on a soul-stirring trip to Mexico with his parents in 2007. One of my absolute favorite parts was the lush, wild growth everywhere--including pink and green flowers so perfect and colorful they just had to be fake (nope). This week, I remembered those flowers and thought about how you and I are just like them--brilliant, blooming, and full of life."

http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/
http://persistentgreen.etsy.com/

Maureen, a talented artist, created this striking piece.

"AnnieMae often likes to fly through a tropical forest, tucked deep and safe within the wings of her favorite ginormous butterfly . . . look close, up by the eyes . . I think those luscious lashes are AnnieMae's," said Maureen.

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this gorgeous piece.

"Thanks to some coral that Bird so generously provided I bring you "Back to the Sea". I put glitter on the coral to give it a wet frothy look and then added the large turquoise wire," said Althea. "I'm really happy with this piece if not the photos in the near dark of a western Pennsylvania February!"

http://salvagedexpression.etsy.com/

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created these sensational pieces titled, “Pretty in paradise” and “Lazy lizard”.

"I’m not sure what led me to tropical critters for this theme, except that I was thinking about how different tropical islands are from everywhere else," said Felicia. "Even their birds, animals, insects and vegetation are unique to them, and certainly nothing like that is ever found in my backyard! Right now in my backyard there’s nothing but a lot of snow!"

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

Teri, creator of Giraffelabel, created this phenomenal ROSE shoulder bag.

"I've been wanting to try working with this type of waterproof fabric for a long time, so this theme and my visions of going to the beach gave me the freedom to do it," said Teri. "The outer fabric is heavyweight cotton and the lining is waterproof. Perfect for the summertime!"

http://www.giraffelabel.etsy.com/

Kris, creator of Lisianblue, created this fantastic piece.

"Pink and green is one of my favorite color combinations, and I knew just what I wanted to work on," said Kris. "Meet "Flower", she isn't for sale, she's for my granddaughter. Needs a little touch up and eyes finished still. Working out a Yoda bunny for my grandson!"

shop: http://lisianblue.artfire.com/

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry, created this fabulous piece.

"These are really tough colors for me, and this week has just been one of those strange weeks," said Trina. "In fact, there is only one earring here because I ran out of rings halfway through the second! I guess you'll have to imagine that I lost the other one somewhere in the Tropical Paradise!!! I sure hope all of you had a better week than I did, and I'm making sure that next week will be a great one for me."

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

Natasha, creator of DoodleStar, created these two pieces.

When I started out, I thought my focus would be more tropical but what soon became apparent was my need to play with the colors. The Princess piece was created for my little one who wanted my character to do something "Princess-y". The second is another version of poem I created for my husband. I dedicate this one to him as well.

Should the princess be a card, print, journal, all three? The poem - the cover of a journal? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Thanks for taking a look :)

http://www.doodlestar.etsy.com

Here are the words in "Believe In..."
Believe In…

The world that lies hidden upon the petals of a flower,
That the princess will always be saved from the locked tower.
That each soul that leaves this Earth makes the night sky brighter;
We can make people feel more loved just by hugging a little tighter.
The magic you have within that makes you truly unique,
Gives life to the beauty in your thoughts and the truth you speak.
So believe in yourself and make your dreams come true,
Because this world needs to believe in the beauty that’s YOU.
© 2010 Natasha Reilly

Bird, creator of CrowTarotTours, created these beautiful pieces.

"Well, you fine TST folk have been saying you want to see my pics - this week your wish is granted! All of these piccys were taken by yours truly, and are hot off the digital presses, being taken on this very Wednesday," said Bird.

"And by the way, you will note in at least several of these pics, the complete replacement of pink by red. Well, red is just pink with no white in. At least that's my story, and I'm sticking to it! :-D"

www.crowtarottours.com - In Progress
Talismans by CrowTarot - www.crowtarot.etsy.com
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

"Tropics Meet Snow, Snow Meet Tropics" - Normally, you think of Umbrellas under sunny skies (at least the patio kind). It was a bit of a delightful disconnect to see these residents of the back deck in their winter gear, so I took the pic."

"Birds in a Row" - We had a flock of robins descend upon the skylight this afternoon, something that to our knowledge hasn't happened before in the time we've been here. It was so kyool. I took pictures. I also remembered days in Florida with the local robins getting absolutely punch-drunk on fermented berries. I bet these birds would have loved to have been there instead of on a snowy Michigan roof.

"Tropical Dreams" - Bailey, our Bassette (aka female Bassett Hound), dreaming of being in warmer climes where we could Go Take a Walk. Green pillows, red-brown dog, close enough. :-D

"Century in Sunglasses" - Looking out the side door earlier today, it seemed as if our car were wearing sunglasses. Another nice reminder of warmer, hazy, lazy, dayz. No red, pink, or green, but it makes me think of Florida, which makes me think of greenery everywhere, and pink flamingos, so it will have to do. :-D

"Angelic Bird" - The reality - trying to land on/sliding down a snowy glass skylight. The mystical - a bird in flight is an angel in wings & feathers.

"Bird Butt" - "I say THIS for your Winter!" -'nuff said, really. :-D

"Bird w/&w/o Poem" - After playing, drinking, and sliding down the skylight, the robins flew to various trees in front & back yards. These are compilations of a particularly nice one of those, set against visions from our snowy front yard.

After viewing this one-of-a-kind TST are you warmed up and ready to challenge yourself to create something new??

Well, the next theme is theme is.........."Orange Blossoms". In this theme we will use orange and a circular shape. The orange can be simply the color and then a circle used in some special way or it can be an orange button, bead, paint ball, fabric, sticker, or something else entirely. Let's create some delicious, original orange blossoms!

Imagine Being In the Olympics....

2010-02-22T09:08:00.000-08:00

would you rather be an Olympic figure skater...

Yuri Kadobnov-AFP/Getty Images

OR

Snowboarder

Lindsey Jacobellis
By Getty Images

OR some other type of Olympian?

Theme 46: Those Tropical Colors Just Made Me...

2010-02-19T15:59:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Felicia Kramer's "I'd Rather Be in Hawaii" week and all the stellar artists she is featuring, I want to celebrate that feeling, that thought, the beauty that takes place when we think of places like Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, etc. The only requirement is that you use two colors - green and pink. You can use tons of others and any material your heart desires but those two colors need to make an appearance.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, February 24th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, February 25th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, enjoy some tropical dreams!

Sensationl Artists Harness a Little Bit of Sunshine and Brighten the World

2010-02-18T08:06:00.000-08:00

Many of these artists began this theme thinking that yellow would present a fairly serious challenge. What happened was that yellow somehow allowed them to open up and play in unexpected ways. The feeling that comes through in each and every work is celebration - celebration for the way yellow caused a new work to flourish, an old work to find that missing piece and all works to hum with life. These talented, inspiring artists will inspire you to take a challenge, stare it down and ultimately make something more beautiful than you ever imagined.

But don't take my word for it, please sit back, relax and bask in a little bit of sunshine that's guaranteed to brighten your entire day!

Jodi, creator of Jodi Horgan - Beaded Art to Wear, created this stunning piece.

“I purchased this beautiful cabochon from Lisa Peters (LisaPetersArt.etsy.com) awhile ago,” said Jodi. “I loved it because it reminds me of sunflowers which are my favorite. However, I find the color yellow a real challenge to incorporate into my work. However, I love purple and it complemented the yellow perfectly. The cuff is covered in purple leather and lined in lavender ultrasuede.”

http://www.jodihorgan.etsy.com/

Erica Voges, creator of Acrylic and Steel, created this unforgettable piece titled, "Remembering Spring".

“I am not sure what was so appealing about this challenge, maybe it was just a longing to paint since I have spent so much time doing other things lately,” said Erica. “I don't use bright warm colors often so it was fun to use yellow, and I love contrast so I thought using a complimentary color scheme would be a fun way to bring in the "other" and give the painting a little oomph.”

http://www.etsy.com/shop/AcrylicAndSteel
http://www.acrylicandsteel.blogspot.com/

Maureen, a talented artist, created this beautiful piece.

"AnnieMae made her first TST appearance in a Halloween costume a couple weeks ago,” said Maureen. “She's back today, with arms wide open to the light, her sturdy body warmed by the sun's embrace."

http://aquamaureens.blogspot.com/

Althea, creator of Salvaged Expression, created this gorgeous piece.

“The yellow in this hat decided to be its own piece of flair,” said Althea. “I'm almost disappointed since this weeks piece doesn't reflect the many permutations the idea went through before it became a lightning struck hat. The hat did give me a little gift though, while making it I ended up having tons of other ideas that I hope I'll get to work up soon!”

http://www.salvagedexpression.etsy.com/

Amanda, created this stellar 8x10 mixed media painting titled, "The Storm," soon to be offered as a print.

“Something that really helps me when I'm feeling low is to remember that even when a storm is crashing around me, the sun still shines--above the turmoil,” said Amanda. “Hang in there, and look for that light!”

http://persistentgreen.etsy.com/
http://persistentgreen.blogspot.com/

Teri, creator of Giraffelabel, created this awesome LINNIE diaper clutch.

“Well, I went with something comfortable this week,” said Teri. “But, I couldn't resist this fabric for this theme...it is perfect - greys and black with that pop of yellow! I've used it before on items in my shop, but never in this shape...and I couldn't resist adding the buttons. I love it!”

http://www.giraffelabel.etsy.com/

Kris, creator of Lisianblue, created these fabulous pieces.

http://lisianblue.artfire.com/

"Nichole's Lily"
This was one of my 1st soft pastel drawings, 1996, my daughter Nichole was 12, it is her poem. This is the 1st time they have been made into 1 image. The (of) is my addition.

"Yellow" a short story about yellow.
"YELLOW"
　
Yellow?
I don’t have yellow.
I don’t wear yellow (it makes me look rather ghoulish)
Yellow??? Agh I don’t have much of yellow anything.
A few beads.
I love sunny lemony yellow kitchens ,
and yes,
I will fight you over that last piece of succulent Lemon Meringue pie.
Yellow?
Yellow?
Y e l l o w?
The color of my brilliant New Mexico sun that I eagerly drink in sitting at the bus stop on a cold winter day.
Yellow, the color of buttercups that grew beside of the house, where the bright fluttering wings of amazing Monarch butterflies danced in the fragrant nectar, my dad protected the flowers as my daughter learned a little about the grandmother she would never meet. My little one always came in with a handful of the sunny lemon cups bobbling on thin green stems. He wasn’t protecting them from her.
I loved them too.
The fairies and I played among them for so many years.
Yellow?
The color of Peace roses surrounded by pink.
Offered in a gesture of peace, an apology after a loud fight in my teens placed lovingly in her small bud vase given to her by her mother.
Yellow?
My mother’s collection of myriads of beautiful flowers that made our yard, and life a little brighter.
Oh Yeah, I have little lemony yellow squiggles.
Giggle.

"Sunbear"
Was created after frustration led to buying a new Dremel (Tues afternoon) to replace the cheaper rotary tool that made the tiny drill bits make bigger holes. Playing, drilling holes in bunches of glass, I remember the squiggles I bought months ago! NOW, I can do the squiggles. The sun, the sky, it's all about my beautiful New Mexico sky, among other ideas. Need to finish up a few butterflies, but I'm pleased with all the creations. :-)

Felicia Kramer, creator of Another Bright Idea, created this digital collage print, “Paint your own Sunshine”.

“With the dreary, crazy weather most of us have been having for weeks we might as well paint our own sunshine!” said Felicia.

www.etsy.com/shop/anotherbrightidea
http://www.feliciakramer.blogspot.com/

Trina, creator of Woven Chains Jewelry and Special Guest Rose, created this simply phenomenal pieces.

http://wovenchains.etsy.com/

“When I started this challenge, I thought yellow was going to be hard, but everything just flowed... However, I want to let my super, wonderful, talented Rose go first this week, because her sculpture of a giraffe snacking on a tree at a watering hole is so much more amazing than anything I made this week,” said Trina. “She did this entirely on her own -- I don't sculpt, and I don't work with clay!”

“My major goal for 2010 is to get more organized, One of the smaller challenges is to finish projects that I started (some of them years ago). So, for this theme, I found a yellow needle case that I had started, finished up the stitching and put it all together with some fantastic buttons and ribbon. A practical piece of sunshine to use everyday.”

“Brandie-new, I made a pendant using some sun-shiny rings with ruby beads and fresh water pearls. I'm still trying to decide if it needs beads hanging from each of the teardrop shapes. I'd love to hear what you think!”

Bird, creator of CrowTarot Tours, created these radiant pieces.

“A couple of entries saluting our Sun,” said Bird.

http://www.crowtarottours.com/ - In Progress!
Talismans by CrowTarot - http://www.crowtarot.etsy.com/
Twitter: @CrowTarotTours

Natasha, creator of Doodlestar, created these three pieces.

"I was surprised at how much fun I had with yellow," Natasha said.

This is going to be a print and a journal cover which will be in my shop today.

http://www.doodlestar.etsy.com/

I fell in love with this material and created a journal filled with fun prompts for little girls.

This is a crayon that I loved making. I think I'm going to sell this with one of my journals...doesn't it look like such fun to color with?

After viewing this bright, creative TST are you feeling the urge to challenge yourself to create something new and different??

Well, the next theme is theme is.........."Those Tropical Colors Just Made Me...". Inspired by Felicia Kramer's "I'd Rather Be in Hawaii" week and all the stellar artists she is featuring, I want to celebrate that feeling, that thought, the beauty that takes place when we think of places like Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, etc. The only requirement is that you use two colors - green and pink. You can use tons of others and any material your heart desires but those two colors need to make an appearance.

Going to Hawaii!?!

2010-02-17T08:48:00.001-08:00

Stop whatever you are doing and run...don't walk...run over to Felicia Kramer's blog for a week-long celebration of artists from Hawaii. There will be two, fabulous giveaways each day!!!

What are you waiting for?? Let's go!!!! Let's start by reading the intro to this fabulous week - http://feliciakramer.blogspot.com/2010/02/id-rather-be-in-hawaii.html

Then dive in and meet some cool artists!!

Thanks for inviting us along, Felicia!

Imagine Living...

2010-02-15T09:08:00.000-08:00

in a treehouse...

Image from The Treehouse Chronicles

OR a houseboat. Which would you prefer?

One additional note: Bird, creator of CrowTarotTours, wanted to share some interesting marketing info with all of you, TSTers! Thank you, Bird.

From The Handmade Marketer - http://www.handmademarketer.com/
If you'd like to improve your "Social Media Success", "Niche Your Products" get some "Newbie Tips" and more sign up at the following link (it's free!)

And from 2Chicks Yolanda A. Facio & Candy Zulkosky aka CaZ, their amazing e-book "Survive the Work from Home Jungle" is free until February 15, 2010.
http://2chicksathome.com/work-from-home-ebook-survive-jungle/

PS - Please check out Creative Nachos and tell me about the last time you made a mess! http://creativenachos.com/blog/

Theme 45: A Bright Bit of Sunshine Mixed With ...

2010-02-12T11:17:00.000-08:00

So, you were taking a stroll along the yellow brick road when you ran into......Take a bright bit of yellow and mix it with ....whatever you can imagine...one color, several? Use fabric, crayons, paint - whatever inspires you! Simply take this Spring color, introduce it to something and see what beauty is born.

Important Guidelines

The work submitted must be something you have created and/or worked on between the time the theme was revealed and the Thursday unveiling. Please submit your response to Natasha@creativenachos.com no later than end of day Wednesday, February 17th if you would like it to be posted on Thursday, February 18th. OR send me a link to your response to include in the comments section of the post.

With your response please include:

1. Your name - either first name, shop name or both.

2. The name of your piece (if you choose to give it one)

3. Something you'd like to share (process of creation, idea behind piece) if you'd like to share anything. Please limit this to 2-3 sentences

4. The shop and/or blog links you'd like to include

5. Two photos of your piece or of each of the pieces (3x5 or 4x6 and 72dpi or a max of 96dpi - if you need any help with that please don't worry I'd be happy to help!)

Most importantly, mix it up!