I’ve been away.

Published on 22nd July 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

And it’s been great.

Refreshed, revamped, and re everything else that I can’t think of right now.

O.K. perhaps not exactly revamped, but I’m working on it. I’ve been thinking of going caveman again, except this time with a tiny amendment.

Only a tiny one though.

140570_Enlarged_1

Otherwise everything goes to pot and I’m not a happy camper.

Except I can’t start thinking about healthy eating until my sister goes home, because it’s fun to eat bad stuff with company, and today is P’s birthday and champagne and pizza just don’t go well with paleo.

–

Soooooooo,

My dad’s been here. He’s gone now which is a bit of a shame. My sister’s still here, she’s with us for a couple more days, and we just got back from Rockport, TX, which is not my favourite place in the world, (sorry Rockport), but it was quiet, it was cooler than Houston (by like a degree, but who’s complaining), and most important, it was completely relaxing.

Except for the swooping pterodactyls.

which were a bit freaky.

And don’t think those sweet little seagulls are as innocent as they look.

We threw some bread at them one afternoon and it was like a scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds.

We were lucky to escape with out lives.

seagull-flock-jj

NEVER look them in the eye.

I’ve not been in the studio since my family has been here so I’ve been quilting a piece that I’ve had hanging around for years, and aside from sweating to death under a heavy blanket in 90 degree weather, I’ve really enjoyed it. Except now I have a quilting injury, which might not look so bad to the uninitiated, but when you poke the eye end of a rather large sewing needle into the middle finger of your right hand, it really, really hurts and you get blood all over the quilt and you’ll probably end up getting a poison puss pocket on the end of your finger if you’re not careful and clean it properly (guilty) and so you have to screw your eyes up in pain and get really irritated that you’ve only got a scrappy old thimble that doesn’t work and that the shops are shut because it 9 o’clock at night so you can’t go out to buy a new one and now you have to soldier through the pain because you don’t want to stop quilting.

Why is my life so hard!

Anyway it’s almost finished it now and soon I can get back to the jewelry injuries which are far more impressive and tend to get a little more attention from the fam.

And I’m all for attention …

Happy Monday.

🙂

–

Well done.

Published on 7th July 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Andy Murray!

77 years since we’ve had a British winner.

I played for the school once or twice, but I don’t think I was as good as he is.

Almost, but not quite.

I did have Fred Perry‘s old carpet though if that means anything.

First married, no money, renovating the house, no phone, no carpet, what’s a girl to do. Beg for carpet remnants from her rich cousin who just moved into Fred Perry’s London flat. It was old, it was threadbare, it was green, and it was in pieces, but it served us well while we saved up enough to buy our own.

Which wasn’t green.

I think my dad still has a bit of it up in the loft.

–

Anyway, I thought you might like to know that the chrysoprase is out of the hospital.

Before

After

DSCN8138

I did think about taking the thing to pieces, but then I decided to see what else I could do with it.

I think I’ve managed to resuscitate it fairly well, but I’ll know what to look out for next time.

–

Amendment.

8th July, 13

(amendment |əˈmen(d)mənt|nouna- minor change in a document)

Actually this is a pretty major change.

“The Andy Murray headlines have ignored the fact that a Briton won a Wimbledon singles title in 1977.“

Bless her heart.

My apologies Virginia.

–

Someone please tell me.

Published on 4th July 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Other Stuff

How this can possibly be $4,200?

(Pete’s Pots – any ideas?)

It’s beautiful, and I was very attracted to it, and I thought to myself –

Myself, this would be a great addition to your pottery collection don’t you think?

But Myself wasn’t sure. So we looked at the price.

Good grief, heavens to betsy, and other expletives not really appropriate here, LOOK AT THE PRICE!

How can anyone justify spending that much money on a piece of pottery?

Maybe I’m just a miserly old goat.

It’s possible.

–

I’ve been.

Published on 2nd July 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Revamping my shops.

Sounds impressive to have shops. I almost feel grown up.

–

Shop 1

Screen Shot etsy2013-07-02 at 9.08.34 AM — Etsy

–

Shop 2

Screen Shot tictai2013-07-02 at 9.14.23 AM — Tictail

–

I spent a lot of time yesterday trying to set up a website, other than Etsy, or Tictail, from which I could sell my jewelry. I already have my own domain website, which I’ve created myself using I Web, which Mac doesn’t support hosting anymore, but is still available to me as a template designer. I use Go Daddy for hosting that.

Wow, it almost sounds as if I’m website savvy. Believe me when I tell you – I’m not.

Here’s my website.

–

Screen Shot website 2013-07-02 at 9.24.02 AM — Mac Version

–

I really like the freedom I have with the Mac. I can do almost anything with it, I have control of how it looks, AND it’s idiot friendly, but although I have access to PayPal shopping carts, etc., it’s a pain in the you know where to add a cart to each and every item on these particular templates. I’m still working on it, and am determined to figure out how I can have it my way, (always stubborn, I know), but for now this website is pretty much just a portfolio.

Insert disappointed sad face here.

Etsy is great. It’s easy to use, using their posting and insurance services is a cinch, but it’s huge and I feel lost there, and although it’s only 20 cents per item to list, it all adds up and I want that money to go to my charities.

Another sad face.

I’ve looked at Squarespace, which looks great, but I’m not ready to spend $8 a month as I’m such a small fry right now.

Wix, which doesn’t look as great.

WordPress ecommerce templates, which never got back to me when I signed up for their free trial.

And yesterday, omg! Shopify. This is the one I wanted – here. Let’s just say that I don’t have a hair left on my head.

I opened up my Tictail shop maybe a year ago, but wasn’t sure about it as it was new, and just looked so low key behind the scenes that it somehow didn’t seem right to me. The themes are limited to about five, or were when I joined. But I found one that is crisp, clean and really quite nice looking. And it’s free. Great for a beginner like me. But I still wasn’t sure.

I couldn’t set up sales tax just for Texas, and got worried about that, but then I found out that it wasn’t my fault (forums are a wonderful thing) and that they just hadn’t got around to doing that yet.

Paypal worried me. I had a friend buy something to check it out, and then refunded her, but she never got the money back. It’s still lurking around somewhere in the depths of the Paypal vaults. I think.

Or is it?

So that freaked me out a bit, I mean what if that happened to a real person.

(Sorry J, I know you’re real too).

Also, I’d have to use a third party for shipping insurance unless I was prepared to charge mega bucks for posting internationally with insurance from the usual suspects. But Shipsurance seems easy enough to use. I just haven’t tried it out yet.

With all that I’ve been ignoring Tictail.

But after yesterday and the whole Shopify drama, I decided to give Tictail another chance. So we’re dating again.

To be honest selling my jewelry freaks me out. I get all het up nervous about doing something wrong, and worse, not living up to the buyer’s expectation.

I feel anxious just telling you about it here.

Where’s that SuperChicken outfit when you need it?

Well I’m not going to worry about it. Tictail and I have kissed and made up, and I’m just going to leave it at that. I just hope it doesn’t mind too much that I two time it with Etsy.

Gosh these relationships are hard.

Now I’ve got to stop worrying about that, and start feeling sorry for myself because I have to clean the house.

My dad’s coming from England tomorrow to visit for a couple of weeks, AND next week my sister’s coming! So the shops will have to be put on the back burner for now.

Blood is thicker than water as they say, and family first, right?

–

If you’re looking for an online shop, go check out Tictail and let me know what you think.

–

By Jove.

Published on 1st July 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

I think I’ve got it!

Well almost.

e13

Thanks to Bob.

Who knows just the thing to give my photo’s a little more oomph.

e18a_edited-1

I think Bob is my new best friend.

Until I find another one.

You can try him out for yourself – HERE.

But you can’t have him. He’s mine.

Get your own best friend.

–

Getting a bit ticked off.

Published on 30th June 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

I had P buy me a EZcube for christmas a couple of years ago, but because photographing my work annoys the #@^**! out of me and leaves me feeling frustrated, stupid and wanting to pull my hair out, I haven’t used it until today. Because he’s P he also bought me a new flash, a clip on light thingy, and a, I’ve never seen one so tiny before, tripod.

Now, if someone would just come over and use them for me, I’d love them forever.

See what it says?

“The EZcube^® is the easiest way to take great product photographs for the web or print.”

Yeah, right!

So apparently if you’ve got one of these,

You can take really, really, nice photo’s, like these,

Now, whilst I don’t particularly want my photographs to come out exactly like the ones above, I think I’m so far off base with the whole lighting experience that it’s not even funny anymore.

DSCN8285

Maybe it’s the background, but I’ve tried loads of different props and they’re all as bad as each other.

I’ve just spent a couple of hours with my super-duper EZcube and am now getting just a little ticked.

I’m determined to use it so I guess the search goes on for the best background and the best way to light the jewelry.

I feel as though I’ll never get it.

So if you want to come over and do it for me you’re very welcome, and I’ll make you a nice cup of tea.

How’s that?

–

I had a bit of trouble.

Published on 25th June 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

Hate it when the drilled hole in the top of a bead fractures. It makes the bead practically useless, and these chrysoprase beads just happen to be my favourite!

So what’s a girl to do?

Pretty much this is the best of a bad job. I just couldn’t do a thing with it except try to hold it with some silver. It didn’t work well as you can see.

I think this piece is about to be disassembled and the chrysoprase placed in the hospital holding cell until I can figure out the best way to deal with it.

I will never surrender!

After the chrysoprase tragedy I made a mini me to go with this big me.

Don’t ask me why.

So, I’m still fed up today. Still homesick. Still failing at trying to appreciate where I live rather than where I think I want to live.

On top of that I can’t keep a darn pot plant alive in the whole house!

Even the flora plots against me.

AND

Somebody finished the last of MY cereal!

–

As I trudge through this dark day I will try to keep my eye upon this beauty.

553087_10151311338518525_766753738_n — Vincent Van Gogh

I believe it’s the only thing that will give me any joy today.

That and my trusty side kick

Wally the Magnificent.

And while I wallow, I will try to remember the words of the wise.

298118_243424445797794_1913325158_n

Except I think he used a dash or two of rum to help him forget his problems.

Don’t have any of that handy.

Man!

–

Why you should never leave the house on a Sunday morning with a credit card and a friend that doesn’t tell you to stop when it all starts to get out of hand.

Published on 24th June 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff

Save me now.

–

International Gem and Jewelry Show

Click on photographs for gemstone information.

–

Sick and Sorrowful.

Published on 18th June 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

This is what happens when you’re sick.

But, because you still want to play you gouge yourself with one of these.

Things then go from bad to worse until you give it up and go lay down on the sofa to feel super sorry for yourself yet thankful you haven’t cut your fingers off completely.

After a week of putting up with the coughing and aching and nose blowing I eventually braved all the sick people at the doctor’s office and got myself some antibiotics. You know you can get really sick waiting in that waiting room.

Here are some things I attempted to work on in the meantime.

You know, all I can say about the painting is that I really enjoy it.

There’s nothing more redeeming in it than that. My hopes of becoming a good painter are fading fast and I’ll just have to give up hoping to become brilliant at it for Lent.

Oh. That’s passed hasn’t it? So O.K. next Lent.

And here is Spencer protecting the quilt table.

Just when I decide the quilt is back on I find the room filled with kids back home from college stuff. Including a queen sized mattress belonging to the kid that quit her job and decided to come home.

Man. Will I ever get rid of them!

So, mattress picked up and leant against the wall I buckle down to picking up my quilt from where I left off, but Spencer has other plans.

It’s one obstacle after another in this house.

Good job I love him.

–

So I’ve been sick and very homesick. Fairly depressed really. But deep down I know that if I just stopped thinking about what I don’t have I would be able to see what I do have, and start living my life here as if it were my home.

After all it has been twenty-four years now.

Maybe I should stamp this on my forehead.

–

Oh, I made $500 this week for Africa 🙂 Now, that puts feeling sorry for myself into some perspective.

Happy Tuesday.

–

From here to there.

Published on 9th June 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Food Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

This is how one of my paintings was shaping up, pre Spain.

And, this is how it is now, post Spain.

Mmmm.

But now I’m sick and the painting will have to wait.

But that’s O.K. because I’ve had another sign.

I know I said I didn’t believe in signs, and I don’t, but look.

The Bok Choy never lies.

If you remember, first there was the tea cup.

And now the veggies.

I feel well loved.

–

So, when I was home I had some yummies. First, of course, there was the fish and chips.

Fish-and-Chips-Recipe1

But I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would and I worried that I’d lost my love for it.

It looks good here, but mine was greasy and the chips were not cool.

Then there was the pork pie.

PORK PIES

AS delicious as ever.

And, then, something I haven’t had since I was a little girl visiting my old nan up the Roman Road.

Pie and mash.

Pie_Eels_DTJT07.jpg Goddard's Pie Shop

Don’t judge it until you’ve had it. It’s yum and then some.

I also had a sausage roll.

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Which was super yum because look how bad it is for you.

And, my all time favourite – a sausage sarnie.

sausage-sandwich

Which everyone knows is almost as good as a chip butty.

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But I forgot to have one of those 🙁

I wouldn’t not (I know, grammar) have eaten them for the world but, let me tell you, I’m glad to be back home and in control of the vegetable count.

I even had one of these.

And this is where I had it.

Well, around the corner of that pub actually – here.

The Lock at Heybridge Basin.

Of course, talking of pubs, we just had to have few of these also.

A pint of bitter being pulled in an English pub

But, just you tell me, who wouldn’t?

My favourite sweets – rhubarb and custard.

rhubarb-custards-1024x682

I had the last one yesterday 🙁

And my favourite crisps.

hula_2313794b

Hula Hoops!

But it wasn’t all about eating the food I can’t get here in Houston.

It really was about just being home again.

This was my Parish Church.

Where I had to get my banns read so that I could be married.

This is the City of Winchester, where I got my art degree.

And which was briefly the home of Jane Austin, and where she died.

You’d think they might touch up the windows.

This is where we used to pick watercress on the way home and make potato and watercress soup for tea. Ah the luxuries of student life.

tree_mill_600

Look. They even have a festival!

Who knew!

I lived in Old Arlesford, Hampshire, and I didn’t know it was the world’s center of watercress. Where was I?

Man! Just made myself homesick again 🙁

Cream_teas_Poster_1_thumb

–

You were just here.

map

And one day I’m going to convince P that we need to go live there again.

No, no, you can’t stop me!

Happy Sunday

🙂

–

Just so’s you know …

Published on 7th June 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

I survived landing in the fifth most dangerous airport in the world.

(I know you were worried).

This is where we went.

ma13

La Almoraima, Spain.

For this.

ma32

My new sister in law and my old brother in law.

ma35

ma7

The weather was gorgeous, the location beautiful, and landing in Gibraltar was no big deal after all, mostly thanks to the chap who decided he was staying in the toilet for the landing. With all the shouting and banging on the door I hardly realized we’d touched down.

I had fun with my family and am a little homesick now, but I’m glad to be back.

Now on to the next big adventure.

After Gibraltar, bring it on!

–

This time.

Published on 11th May 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

I sent my jewelry earnings to –

Care.

Just thought you’d like to know.

–

So, moovin’ on, before it all gets a little overwhelming in the, what the hell’s happening to the world, department, here are a few things I’ve been doodling.

I call this my, What in god’s name are you aiming for here then, period.

–

But here’s a relatively normal one.

O.K. perhaps marginally normal.

–

So as my trip to Spain looms nearer, my life has become more and more fraught with anxiety. Who on this planet wouldn’t want a trip to Spain you might wonder? Well, except for the Spaniards that answer would be – me.

The reasons being …

1. I have to board an airplane. Fortunately I have been saving up my Xanax stash for just this kind of emergency.

2. Not only do we have to land in England, because that’s where all my relatives live and it would be a bit rude to go to Spain and not pop in and say hi, we then have to land in Gibraltar.

gibraltar-airport-2

Which, according to the t.v. programme, The Top Ten Most Dangerous Airports in the World, is one of the top ten most dangerous airports in the world. I think I’m going to ban t.v. from my entertainment lineup and take up drinking instead. (Oh wait, I already do that).

And yes, the airport does cross the road, but apparently the danger comes from the wind currents that come around that big hulking rock.

And I’m sure the fact that the runway goes straight into the sea doesn’t help much either.

After that we hire a car and go to the part of Spain where my brother in law’s wedding is to be held.

NORMAL people, wouldn’t make their favourite sister in law suffer like this. Just sayin’

3. I have to buy clothes for the wedding.

I’m not going to go into this here, but as I’ve not been able to get out of my black t-shirt and jeans look for years and years now, this is proving to be a bit of a problem. You see, black t-shirts and jeans means that people don’t look at you, and you can move about undetected, and unbothered, and just do your stuff without having to worry about it. Weddings are not conducive to jeans and black t-shirts – funerals are O.K. however.

So, except when I’ve been ignoring the whole darn thing, I’ve been working on getting over it. I’ve concluded that I just need to bung something not black and not jeansey on, and simply shut my eyes through the whole day. If I can’t see anyone, they can’t see me – right? Oh, and there’s always the alcohol.

4, We have to fly back from Gibraltar. (Did I mention that it’s one of the top ten most dangerous airports in the world?)

And

5. We have to fly back from London.

This all involves landing you understand.

–

So, I’m off to the mall now with N who is NOT the best person in the universe to shop with as she’s as insecure as I am. I’m sure we’ll be alright, and if we’re not, there’s always the alcohol.

And here is a little picture of a happier child in need, if there is such a thing, just so I don’t leave you miserable from the Care picture above.

CARE-donate-smiling-girl

Don’t say I don’t worry about you.

And this creepy monk guy,

face

He’s worried about you too.

Oh, and here’s a picture of Wally in the sink.

He’s worried about everything.

This guy.

face2

He could care less.

Shame on him!

–

A good day at the art fair.

Published on 7th May 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

The weather couldn’t have been better. Usually I have to change clothes three times (I kid you not), because it’s so hot and humid that I wither away into a pile of wet sludge, which, let me tell you, is not good for business. Actually, in all the years I’ve lived here in Houston, I can’t remember a spring like it. The weather is gorgeous, and has been for way longer than it should be, which leads me to worry about imminent global doom, but, I won’t go there today as it’s too pretty outside.

The weather brought everyone out to play and there were a couple of times when there were so many people in my booth that it was a veritable people-crush. It was like that time when someone decided to see just how many people you could squeeze into a Mini Minor, but a little safer as I wouldn’t let anyone get onto the tables.

images

P’s aunt had one of these, it was like a tin can on wheels.

I sold about $1200 of jewelry, mainly necklaces, which surprised me as they are way more expensive and usually the earrings go first. My first sale was to a man who came in, looked around, and picked up four pieces for a total of $244 before I could even get my Square credit card thingy set up on my i phone. If you haven’t got one of these yet, you should. Absolutely brilliant alternative to the zap thing that we used to use before smart phones got smarter than we did. (O.K. perhaps smart phones have always been smarter than me).

You tell me. Would you prefer this.

images

Which is o.k. except that then you have to go home and input all the credit card information into ProPay, or somewhere like that, including everyone’s zip/postal code. It’s at this point you realize that you forgot to ask everyone for their d*^m zip code, and so you then have to phone everyone who bought from you and ask them to please give you their zip code otherwise ProPay won’t process their payment. Then, after a few days, you have to remember to take the money out of ProPay and put it into your bank. Both Propay and PayPal have the (Square) swipe thingy now, but you still have to remove your money later.

Or, this,

images

Which, I admit is a little disconcerting in that whole, is it really doing what it says it does or have I just given $1200 of jewelry away, department. But, let me assure you, it does do what it says, and the money goes straight into your bank. No half way house, which makes me feel very grown up, and saves my brain a lot of worrying about forgetting things.

–

So, a good day on the whole, followed by utter exhaustion the next day. I am constantly amazed at how sitting around all day, doing nothing much of anything really except talking to people and taking their money, wears me out.

So, today I am painting.

I’ve had a well deserved cup of tea.

From another new mug. (Don’t judge me because I have a mug purchasing addiction).

And now I’m feeling the love.

Except I don’t believe in signs.

Just saying’.

–

Just in case you were wondering the record is now 28 people.

I feel a bit sorry for the woman who says the experience was second best after giving birth to her child, but who knows perhaps finally being let out of a Mini is much the same really – except the other way round …

–

To oblivion and beyond.

Published on 29th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Other Stuff

As Buzz would say.

O.K. so he wouldn’t, but he could have, and with a little make up he def could look the spitting image of Tom. No?

O.K. maybe a lot of make up, but they have the same eyebrows.

Bottom line, it was better than Olympus has Fallen, but we left with more questions than made sense. Half way through it took on a bit of a, what?, theme, but Tom wasn’t so bad to look at I suppose, so all wasn’t that lost. Looking forward to Star Trek and the Great Gatsby now.

–

Spent yesterday, before the movies, glazing plates. I really am already disappointed with the outcome and they’re not in the kiln yet.

Oh yes, they look alright now.

But lets just wait and see what 1800 + F does for them.

I’m not holding my breath.

The photos are a bit dull, I’ll try to replace them later with better ones. Off to the farmers market now. I’ve got to get my health back on 😉

–

More tea Vicar?

Published on 27th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

So I woke up this morning thinking that I’d got it all wrong and the art festival was today after all.

Well, I’d be a bit late that’s for sure.

It all started because, for a month now, I kept telling myself, and everyone else, that the show was going to be on the 27th, but then I got my acceptance letter and it said it was on the 5th of May. Of course, because I just knew they’d messed up, I still worried that it was on the 27th. Yes, I did go to the, maybe they’re trying to squeeze me out by giving me the wrong info, place but, only for a fraction of a small paranoid moment, and then I told all my peeps that the 5th it was.

However, panic set in as I sat here this morning, drinking my tea, thinking about life, the universe and everything, and how much jewelry I have hanging around yet I can’t seem to stop making it, and how on earth will I ever get rid of it all, and will the finale of, The Following, be as good as we expect it to be or just another false alarm, when suddenly I just knew the festival was today and I’d blown one of my only chances to sell some of the darn stuff.

Yes, I only do one festival. Time to re-think that now that I’m a recovering super-chicken.

This, and the bizarro dreams, has led me to believe that I may, perhaps, just a smidgen, most likely have a little, (like this much ), anxiety problem.

Me thinks more tea is in order.

Don’t worry, I checked and it is the 5th.

–

I’m drinking my tea right now out of this,

It’s my new favourite. The size is perfect, the rim is the optimal thickness, it has a pleasing shape, and, most importantly, just look at that bird. As we all know, these are exactly the requirements needed for great tasting tea.

–

Yesterday I cleaned the studio even more than I did the last time by getting out the little blue shop vac and actually vacuuming the floor. Man it was bad. First I had to vacuum the filter of the vacuum. It was so chocked up with stuff from previous, garage related, vacuuming that it wouldn’t suck up a feather. So I got out the big orange shop vac and vacuumed the insides of the blue one. It was kind of like a dad giving his kid a good once over before sending him out into the real world. I have now decided to keep the little blue one for myself. P can have the big one. I haven’t told him yet as I know he’s very possessive of his ‘toys’.

Then I made this.

with a green t-shirt on!

Now, this may not sound extraordinary to you, but to my close peeps, this is huge, right? And, yesterday it was a dusty red one!

Perhaps this is why I’m having the, (this big ) anxiety stuff going on right now.

Maybe it’s back to black today.

Which leads to ….

For your entertainment.

O.K. so perhaps the whole funeral thing isn’t that entertaining, but it’s still good.

Happy Friday people.

🙂

(N.B. So, it’s Saturday. See, anxiety right there ….)

–

Nosferatu, Modigliani, and Inspector Gadget.

Published on 26th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Often my unconscious world is an explosion of activity, and I wake exhausted.

Last night, or I should say this morning as that’s when it seemed all the action was taking place, I was back at university. I had no clothes yet a policeman borrowed one of my bras – a mint green one, (don’t ask). I cooked the biggest potato known to mankind which surprisingly fitted into one of my smallest saucepans. I cried over my mum, I chatted with my aunt and uncle, I gave a sofa to a woman having my surrogate baby – she didn’t want it but I didn’t care, the sofa that is. I valet parked at school – shouldn’t we all. I had to explain that my sister was twenty to a weird little creepy teacher who thought she was just a very mature eight year old. (She’s actually forty-eight, but I think that would have freaked him out even more). We laughed at a satellite photo of how one part of our fence hadn’t been re-stained – in a, in your face, protest of the deed restriction nazi neighbourhood people.

Yes, big brother’s been on our back recently for fence violation, and the missing teeny-weeny flower shaped knob on the post box. Man! You’d think they’d have better things to do, especially as the fence looks fine, and, you have to believe me when I tell you, the knob on the post box is about an inch round. They probably had to use their special Inspector Gadget extending eyeballs to see that one.

They probably stole it in the first place.

And so the dream went on, scene after scene, bizarreness after bizarreness. Mostly to do with school, but I believe there was a toilet drama in there somewhere. Thankfully it wasn’t as traumatic as the time I was on a train, in the countryside, in the dead of night, and Nosferatu cycled by and looked me in the eye. That was a little disturbing. Or the time I was Steven Seagal and … O.K perhaps we shouldn’t go there.

Nosferatu_Phantom_der_Nacht

I used to have this poster on the wall when I was at art college. Perhaps it messed with my mind.

Note to self: No more creepy posters. Stick with the distorted female figures of Modigliani. They’re safer.

amedeo-modigliani-portrait

O.K. Perhaps this one isn’t.

She’s got angry eyes. And that double chin isn’t doing much for her either.

So, this is how my mornings usually begin. It’s like I’ve lived the whole day before it’s started. I actually feel worn out and ready for bed now.

But,

New stuff going on in the jewelry department.

DSCN7659 — dinosaur bone (how cool is that!)

Will I be able to cope with this much excitement, I wonder loudly to myself.

I think very possibly I will.

😉

–

I’ve made

Published on 25th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

A banner. And it’s really big and in your face and a bit scary.

4′ x 2.5′ scary to be exact.

Banner_Medium –

It’s for my booth at the art festival.

It going to scream, lookee, here I am, and then I’m going to have to talk to people and try to sell my jewelry to them, and that’s why it’s going to be scary.

I’m not good at that bit.

But, as I grow up, and, as in prezbillyjeff’s words to Stephen Colbert, I’d be a slug not to, I am determined to realize goal #2 in my effort to make another $10,000 for charity. So it has to be done people. The fear stops here (maybe).

It’s not going to be an easy feat considering I am the original super-chicken.

Yes, you might well have been wondering why I named my studio Cold Feet. It’s just a more tasteful way of saying chicken sh#t.

Actually it’s served me well. People remember my name, and, if you’re not super-chicken, that’s a good thing, right?

Next up I think I will make me a super-chicken t-shirt. Then I’ll be the whole package.

I’ll get back to you on that one.

–

Dang!

Wouldn’t you know there’s already a super-chicken.

Only I think he has the wrong idea about the whole being a chicken thing.

Oh well. Back to the drawing board.

–

Get your own banner – here, you know you want one. And it’s only $20. How’s that for making an art festival possibly the most uncomfortable attention seeking experience you’ll ever have.

My stomach’s hurting already.

–

And this

Published on 24th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Is why I don’t’ like PMC (precious metal clay).

Oh yes, it all sounds good. You can do stuff with it never attempted before, or so the rumours will have you believe, but, look at it. There must be a thousand billion dollars of the stuff on my fingers right here. And all the things I’ve ended up making with it so far are really nothing to do cartwheels over. Most of it I’ve ended up heating down into balls to use in other projects because I’m just not happy with the outcome.

Very distressing, and it makes my fingers look chubby!

After the initial stage of trying to re-condition the dried out clay from my last frustrating attempt to use it, I did manage to get it into a more stable form and not get any on my fingers, but why bother is what I want to know. It’s expensive, it’s fiddly, it’s annoying, and, so far I’ve made nothing I like out of it. So I will finish up using the blob I have and never buy the stuff again.

It’s actually a relief to find something I don’t want to do for a change. I feel a little grieving coming on for an opportunity not fully exploited, but to continue is madness.

I might very well end up in some twelve step programme if I don’t give up some of this stuff now.

–

Life as I know it.

Published on 22nd April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

Last night Robert Downey Jr. looked away from me with abject disdain because I failed my history exam. He was my professor, I was at university, and, for the second year in five, I had flunked my exams because I hadn’t been to class, read the books, written the essays, etc. etc. etc. Same old, it’s too late to fix it, scenario.

And that, people, is what watching the Iron Man 3 trailer can do to a fragile mind

You have been cautioned. Watch at your own peril.

–

So we went to see a movie, and as no one could make up their mind between – aliens, bank robberies, terrorist or the tried and true psychological thriller, we let P decide, and terrorists it was (see here). (I would have gone with the psychological thriller, but that’s just me). I enjoyed it insofar as it satisfied my need to beat the c*^p out of something, but really, the whole time I was in the cinema I felt really anxious. Was the guy sitting next to me – the one with the creepy, fired up body language – going to get out his gun and shoot us all. I’d be the first to go of course, and I still have to fold the laundry – so unfair. Because that happens now, and when we go to see these movies that get us all riled up and defensive I really believe it changes us. Even I don’t want to buy a Kia now because we have to shun Korea (O.K. so Kia is South Korean, not North but you get the point). Just in case you didn’t, the point is – what’s that about! It’s not cool is what it is, and it’s not the someone I want to be, but it creeps up and gets us, and before we know it we’re those people we don’t understand. You know, the ones full of hatred and fear and anger.

And then there’s the, let’s get a quick laugh in, lame jokes while our heroes are standing over the wasteland of (their own) dead people. I don’t know, but to me that just seems to make a mockery of – well, humanity really.

I don’t usually feel this way. I enjoy a good, beat ’em up, action movie as much as the next person, but I did wonder if we wouldn’t benefit a little more from watching a multicultural drama that perhaps showed more of our traditions and way of life so that we could better understand each other rather than the same old, us and them, storyline. The world’s a pretty interesting place after all.

Perhaps I’m just getting old. Man! Just another thing to add to my Monday woes …

–

O.K. shake it off people. Time to lighten up.

Update on the painting.

Old one finished.

O.K. now that I’m looking at it here – what are those love hearts doing? They need to get out of there quick before I go over to the other side completely, and those two houses down bottom. Hideous.

Did I ever mention I have trouble finishing anything? Or liking it come to that.

–

Here’s one waiting for its next step.

Let’s see how long it takes to ruin this one.

–

And here’s that one I started a couple of days ago.

It’s kind of in its, naaah, stage. Like – what exactly was you aiming for with this one?

And here, we have the beginnings of a new one.

Is it time to throw away the brushes again, is my question.

–

So, today I am going to clean all my jewelry in preparation for the upcoming art festival.

How ’bout you?

–

P.S.

Strange how sometimes something pops up when you’ve just finished writing your, moping about wallowing in the negative, blog post that’s just the ticket.

HERE

🙂

–

Yep.

Published on 17th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

The oil pastels came out.

I knew they would.

AND

My stickers came.

Don’t ask me what I’m going to do with them.

If you need some stickers, (I know you know you do) run now to Moo, or forever hold your peace.

–

Not quite.

Published on 17th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

Well, it’s not coming along too badly.

DSCN7635

We’ve definitely got some Pepto Bismol stuff going on, and it’s pretty boring on the whole, but I haven’t quite given up yet, although I’m sorely tempted to set the oil pastels on it, which is a sure-fire way for it to end up in the trash.

Here’s its progress.

Now, to tone down the antacid and try to get a little excitement back.

On a side note, S, in his rebellious stage, painted his bedroom Pepto Bismol pink a few years back.

Last laugh on him though as he had to live with it for a year before I let him paint it back to a more manly shade of – well, anything really.

Can you imagine. It makes me want to throw up just looking at it in this painting. I couldn’t cope with waking to it each morning. Probably explains why he went through his falling asleep on the couch period.

Note to S. I will always win.

Give up now.

–

Inspired

Published on 15th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

To paint.

It doesn’t take much for me to want to have a go at everything.

Give me a day at an art festival and I come home elated, and depressed at the same time.

No time to do it alllll.

Now I have to paint, make a mosaic – but first fire up some pottery to make it with, and make more quilts. All that, and the jewelry still needs me, and I have a strange hankering to get to some flea markets quick, because I just know there is a new adventure waiting for me there.

I lost my Corel when I dropped my old laptop and, of course, couldn’t find the c.d. to upload on this new one, or move over the one I have from there to here. So last night, in a fit of abandon, I bought a new one. Not the free, little, you can play but you can’t know all my secrets, Corel that I had before, but the real, yes I’m going to cost you some (read loads of) money, but you know you want me, one.

Oh well.

To practice on it I’ve made me a sketch which I’m now going to go out to the studio with and attempt to relay in acrylics and perhaps oil pastels, depending on how bad the acrylics decide to mess up. For sure the oil pastels will follow quickly in the acrylic’s footsteps and everything will end up in the bin.

So.

Prepare yourselves for moaning and groaning and the same ol’, sorry for myself giving up painting again, scenario.

You’ve got to know it’s coming ….

landscape

Don’t ask me what’s going on here, but it looks as though the San Andreas fault has bust its sides and squidged up those poor houses again.

And I thought I had troubles.

–

Did she run out of things to say?

Published on 14th April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

I hear you wondering loudly to yourselves …

I think not!

Today is brought to you from the sofa after a day of wandering happily, and touching carefully, all the lovely art things at the Woodlands Waterway Art Festival, here in TX.

And, it was a beautiful day. It got a bit hot towards the end of the trek up and down the waterway, but we made it back to the car and into the Cheesecake Factory without too much moaning.

O.K. a bit of moaning.

–

Here are some of my favourite artist of the day.

Ronald Linton

Tim Peters

733836_10151532968242180_689970191_n

Alex Horst

547121_10151532444652180_1507373046_n

Brian McGuffey

63424_10151531490402180_110910308_n

Terrell Powell

12510_10151527855112180_1017581657_n

Deborah Bloom

521910_10151521852142180_847880165_n

Michele Ledoux

533892_10151516638772180_2147404283_n Steven and Beth Radtke

544518_10151498369427180_1298634787_n

Denise Greenwood-Loveless

578548_10151482688747180_1849144303_n

Chelsea Stone

226566_10151456967902180_800317371_n

Tanya Doskova

1849_10151441276667180_1221724257_n

And my very, very favorite,

Steven Graber

Unfortunately I couldn’t buy them all …

–

Baking soda, sailing ships and deadly emotions.

Published on 2nd April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

An update on the acid spill. Not sure if the baking soda is necessary at this point, but it definitely adds to the excitement.

Not just for unclogging sinks, is baking soda the aspirin of the cleaning world I ask myself?

Going to scrub it later.

And now back to Lynley. (I know you were wondering).

One fantastically bright sailing ship docked, or run ashore, whichever you prefer, awaiting me to add its finishing touches.

And this, my friends, is where I mess it up completely and hang up my paint brushes forever – again.

Oh the troubles in paradise.

BUT!

Lynley is finished!

At last.

Unfortunately I haven’t another book to listen to, so today will have to be a silent day. Unless I get out my new, tantalizingly intriguing, self-help c.d. Deadly Emotions.

(Don’t ask).

Why I buy these things I’ll never know. What I really need is another good ol’ juicy murder mystery. Not of the Lynley kind. I suppose a c.d. with deadly in the title will just have to do for now.

–

And here I am still trying out new backgrounds for my jewels.

I call this my Carnival line.

😉

I still think I prefer my original red-dish background, but wonder if it doesn’t compete too much with the jewelry.

And now I’m off to ruin my painting.

T.T.F.N.

–

Just so you know.

Published on 1st April 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Ceramic Stuff, Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

The other day, when I decided to throw caution to the wind and paint again, this happened – but, you’ll be relieved to know that I put a stop to it as soon as I could.

First it became even more hideous – in a mocking sort of way, but I had the last laugh when it found itself in the trash.

Don’t mess with me!

So, coward that I am, I went back to the old faithful.

Which bored me.

And threatened to put me in another funk.

But, I plodded on,

Making stuff just for the sake of it,

Which bored me more.

Until finally I gave up and sulked myself further into the funk.

Is it the same funk? I wonder to myself.

Or, is it allergies? Stranger things have happened. I do live in Texas you know, and suddenly, all that green stuff is laying about, conspicuous in its innocence (to the trained eye), on all available surfaces.

This, and those wind turbine things, remind me of the late great science fiction books. The turbine things are the new and improved War of the Worlds aliens. Sleek in design yet even more sinister in their silent, never moving way. They just bide their time, collecting the wind so to sniff out human happenings, looking, but not looking, and, all the time multiplying until, before you know it, they’re everywhere, like in Sweetwater, TX.

See!

(Actually, that’s not Sweetwater, but yet another example of alien infiltration on the outskirts of a doomed Texas town. Who will be next?).

And the pollen? Well, that’s obviously some kind of insidious microorganism waiting patiently for us to inhale them into our bodies, so that they can use us as a weapon to fight the wind aliens and continue their quest to take over the universe. Some of them will be wasted, of course, but it’s a sacrifice they are willing to take.

For them, failure is not an option …

As for Inspector Lynley, I was finally allowed to see the connection between the baffling – why are you telling me this – sub story, and the main story. I must admit it was in a bit of a ‘duh’ way, like I really should have seen it coming. But, as I’m not really that invested in the story the connection caught me off guard and it ended up more as the ‘boom boom’ part of a bad joke. (Can’t really sound that out in words so you’ll just have to work with me here).

I still haven’t finished listening to the story, but we all have to suffer in our own way.

On a lighter note: I burnt a hole in the studio counter when I put the nitric acid into a ceramic dish, (don’t judge me – it said I could). It was obviously not the right kind of ceramic dish, I think because it was old and crackly. I just thought, wow, that nitric acid evaporates quickly, but no – it had seeped right through the bottom and now I have a humongous area of molten formica counter top to forever flaunt my failures. It’s as though one of those alien versus predator things has dribbled its caustic saliva onto it.

And, the moral of the story is …

Never play with acid when you’re in a funk!

I’m telling you, this mood better change quick otherwise I’ll have no studio left.

–

Be afraid. Be very afraid …

–

I want to –

Published on 29th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Painting Stuff

Paint soooo much, but I just canny do it capt’n.

It’s my most worrying thing to do.

Sometimes I ignore it and just don’t look over at that whole other side of the studio, you know, the one with all the exciting colours patiently waiting to play.

But, I know it’s there, because it’s niggling a hole in the side of my head.

So today I’m going to get to it – it’s going to be a painting day.

(I think).

Lighten up girl. Inspector Ly nley is still half heartedly trying to solve the graveyard murder, which is a convenient place to get murdered in if you ask me, and as I only listen to the story when I paint, he’s pretty much been dragging his heals over the whole thing.

It’s time to put a stop to this story before anyone else gets hurt.

Actually, I’m not really enjoying it, it’s more something to listen to really. It does kind of take the painting anxiety away a little by dragging me into it’s (boring) drama, a bit like taking a xanax really, although it’s been going on for so long now that if someone doesn’t tell me who did it soon and explain to me how the whole little sub story about the toddler murder fits in to the thing, someone is going to hear about it.

So I’m off out now to paint and listen. I’ll let you know how the whole sorry mess turns out … if it turns out.

–

A little something for you to mull on while you wait.

63138_10151248028872436_1720308263_n

Come on. You know you want to try it, if only to laugh out loud because you knew it wouldn’t work even before you tried it.

The clue here is (repeat if necessary), although the whole fizzy science experiment thing does sound rather exciting.

–

Exciting times in the studio.

Published on 27th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

There’s been a massive clean up.

Something apparently took over my body yesterday and lo!

Can you say-what happened!

Everything is in its place.

Which is kind of frightening.

In a creepy sort of way.

But, I’m liking it.

From this angle it doesn’t look like I’ve done a thing.

But, it’s my little piece of safe haven.

As soon as I sit down here I’m in the land of, What? You want dinner? Sorry I don’t do that, but you can bring me a cup of tea if you want…

Now I just have to sort out the rest of the studio and the people who live here with me will think I’ve been invaded by the body snatchers-again.

It seems that now the jewelry has apparently worked its way to the top of my creative priorities I do have one little problem to fix.

The extractor fan.

It doesn’t work. Well, it half works in a very noisy, half working kind of way.

P made it for me, (I suspect with only half an effort), but I need something efficient now as the soldering fumes are taking over and my hypochondriacal self is beginning to get all up in my face over it.

Two things I don’t like about jewelry making.

1. wearing a dust mask

2. worrying about the fumes.

O.K., so I don’t like the nitric acid either, or the precious metal clay, but that’s because I haven’t quite got a handle on them yet and so they annoy the hell out of me.

(Yes, I need to know how to do everything, and I need to know how to do it well. What? You don’t?)

So, my next project, before I die of jewelry related fume and dust inhalation, is to make myself a better extractor fan without spending a thousand billion dollars on it.

Because that just wouldn’t be cost-effective.

–

“He smiled understandingly –

Published on 24th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff

-much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced-or seemed to face-the whole external world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself, and assured you that it had precisely the impression of you that, at your best, you hoped to convey.” Page 48, The Great Gatsby.

–

Don’t trust this man!

’nuff said …

–

I’m reading …

Published on 24th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Painting Stuff

Because I have to.

The first sentence that made me feel as though perhaps this wasn’t going to be as tedious a task as when I first attempted to read it, waaaay back in school, was:

“If personality is an unbroken series of successful gestures, then there was something gorgeous about him …”

Really that’s only part of the sentence, but you’ve got to love that word – gorgeous? There’s something, I don’t know what, about it when used here, by a man, toward a man. It smacks of jealousy to my mind, or contempt. Perhaps admiration, but I don’t think so. He’s probably merely sharing an observation, but what a great introduction to this man. I know immediately that I don’t want to like him, but probably will because he’s going to be all charismatic and charming, and we’re going to fall into his trap …

Either that, or I’m way off base and, as usual, am living in my own little made up world of what I think things should mean.

It reminds me a little of the way Patricia Highsmith writes about Ripley. Now, there’s a creepy fellow …

Anyway, I’m reading it because I can’t go to see the movie until I have, and the movie doesn’t look as dreary as the book seemed to be when I was a kid.

–

In the rest of the news: I spent yesterday painting. Sounds good fun but it ended badly. Going out there in a minute to throw all my brushes away.

How about you?

–

I’ve found a new love.

Published on 23rd March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Sculpture Stuff

Gerard Collas.

And I love him

this much

2918790633

No No Wait

3775420476

THIS much

3563666427

And now I need to throw everything else out and make some sculptures.

–

Don’t you think we should all travel around on this?

3006576749

Just trotting along, out in the open, with the breeze in your hair and fresh air on your face and a little porthole to escape to when it rains. Which, of course, it needs to every now and then to water the flower.

This, however, albeit colourful and fascinating, looks a little crowded. I’d rather watch those people speed by frantically as I casually guide my humongous dog coach thing down the country lanes.

(Note: Always take the back roads if you can. Not as many accidents).

2590827157

They’ll probably get there faster, but one of them, namely the woman in the purse, has definitely left something behind on the kitchen table at home.

She’s out of luck as he’s not stopping anytime soon.

And this man

912637003

definitely needs to pack a little lighter.

Else he’ll have a heart attack before he reaches wherever he’s running away to.

(Bless him. I feel worried for him now. I think his wife’s been nagging him a day longer than he can cope with).

Perhaps he should think about getting a horse.

434101702

Definitely needs to avoid the angry fish though.

1446101700

And here are some other sculptures by him, just to make you feel really grumpy, but in that great, oh my god, look how wonderful, wish I was as good as him, way.

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(O.K. so that’s not so great. Kind of depressing really – in that, oh my god I might as well give up now, way).

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1917758820

349251869 — click photo to go to website

This last one reminds me a little of one of my favourite sculptures that resides in the Tate Gallery in London. You know, the one that just stands there waiting for you to come across it and stop in your tracks just to stare at it in wonder.

–

Prepare yourself to say Oh My God.

–

Jacob and the Angel 1940-1 by Sir Jacob Epstein 1880-1959

Look at it.

(Do you think it would fit on my mantle?)

–

While you’ve been waiting.

Published on 22nd March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

I’ve been in a funk.

It happens.

I’m still in the funk really but I thought you might all forget me so I had to drag myself back from the brink.

I’m not in as much of a funk as Colin Farrell though, he’s having a bit of trouble with his recall at the moment. Yes, we’re watching Total Recall – again. Arnold really couldn’t do the whole, please love me I’m confused thing, as much justice as Colin. Colin has that compelling, oh my god what’s happening to me, let me show you my anguish with my eyebrows, thing going on with his face that just seemed to elude Arnold. P was a bit upset when we first saw it as Kate is his girlfriend and he was kind of put out that they put her in the evil role. I say get over it P. She’s too young for you. What the h*^*! you thinking man …

Now Colin …

I think he likes older women …

And,

here are a few items of jewelry made in the funk phase.

Just can’t seem to get that excited over them though.

Perhaps I can work it out with Farrell. If he can still save the world, or colony, or wherever they are, in his poor me, what’s going on here then, state of mind, then I can wake up funk-less tomorrow don’t you think.

Perhaps I need one of those phasey gun things though, oh, and that hand telephone …

–

And now we take you back to our normal programme.

Published on 12th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Food Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

I had a bit of a moment yesterday with the whole Nobel Peace Prize thing so I’m bringing it back down today.

I think it might have had something to do with the birthday champagne the night before, denial of my new age, and also the sugar rush from the tiramisu cupcake that I unceremoniously stuffed into my mouth for breakfast yesterday in that whole – don’t worry about frosting on the nose lets just stuff the whole thing in your face manner you see in the movies.

I don’t even like cake, but these were something else. BTW, thanks J for busting my diet I have to reluctantly go back to visit the caveman now …

Soooo, I found this.

il_570xN.391073539_gysx — Michou P. Anderson

Can you say, oh my god, what!

Now, it might not exactly be your cup of tea but how on earth did she manage this?

It kind of reminds me of the pink bubblegum blobs my friend made when we took a lamp work class a couple of years back –

in that, night and day way.

–

So, what to do today?

These are waiting for me in some kind of limbo land.

And, help it now, this has been in the kiln for ever just waiting for some friends to join it for the next firing party.

So I think it might just be time to get to it.

Oh, and here’s a doodle to cheer you up.

Just in case you need it.

–

Some new work and a plan.

Published on 11th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

These are some things I’ve been working on.

I’m interested in developing my silver skills and making more of my doodles.

I like these earrings and think I’ll experiment more with them today.

Don’t ask about the dots.

For some reason this pendant reminds me of the circus.

Not sure about this necklace. I like it but I wonder if anyone else will.

And finally, back to some old basics.

I need to make some more earrings for the art fair this April.

I’ve found a neat accounting site called Wave and have started logging in some of my numbers.

I’ve only logged in my expenses so far which kind of looks bad especially as P the Wonder Boy believes I’m all expenses and no income.

I’m not so sure. Today I will put in the sales and that’ll show him!

Personally, I think I’ve broken near enough even to be quite proud of myself, especially in light of how many supplies I have.

Not a tremendous profit as of yet, but this will be my year, I can feel it in my bones.

Now, you may be wondering where the $10,000 has come from. Well, P just happens to be my matching gift programme (told you he was Wonder Boy). I make my jewelry, sell it and say, hey P, look how much I’ve sold, I’ll send this to Africa I think. And he says, but you haven’t really made any money yet. And I say, stop being so negative, it’s all a matter of perspective.

537199_531742730191950_1814200728_n

But, people, this year I’m all business. My next $10,000 is going to be allll profit. And I might even pay P back his matching gift. Although that would defeat the whole gift philosophy, wouldn’t it …

I’m feeling it’s a great time to start.

I reached my first goal while perfecting my skills, (no matter how I got it). I had a happy birthday to me yesterday with Indian food and champagne. And now I’ve got me a whole new grown up, you don’t really need to be an accountant, really you don’t, money tracking thing.

Writing my business plan, it seems I only have three goals.

1. To mak a profit.

2. To save the world.

3. To win the Nobel Peace Price.

–

It’s doable don’t you think?

It’s all upward from here people. Good things are going to happen.

🙂

–

Done!

Published on 8th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

This morning I made my $10,000 goal.

Thank you to everyone that bought jewelry from Cold Feet Studio.

I really appreciate it.

SYRIA_LP_FINAL_IMAGE_2013_03_06 — Click photo to go to Save the Children.

🙂

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill.

–

Lookee here.

Published on 8th March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

At this new lovely.

No you can’t have it because it’s mine.

It’s a pie flue and it’s now going to be part of my collection. Of course, it’s never going to see the inside of a pie, for that I have my super everyday pie flue, one that I’ve had for years and years. This one from Joy Elizabeth is too special to use. You have to just look at it and smile, and that’s just as good as eating a fabulous steak pie, but not one with kidneys in it because that would be nasty.

Did you know that there was a national pie day? Me neither. And, apparently there’s an American Pie Council to prove it. At home it appears there’s a British Pie Week.

Who knew.

–

Tell me.

Published on 1st March 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Why no one told me about Philip Jackson?

PopeJoan

Where has he been my whole life?

Mr_Bennets_Daughter

I am seriously ashamed of myself for having not heard of him.

Look at that foot.

PasdeBasque .

Those hands

Saraband_i

The movement.

GaleForceNun_i

So delicate.

ChantingCimarosa

And striking.

Those fingers!

I want to stand and look at her all day.

GuidedMissal

And sit next to this one just to feel her calm and talk with her about her book.

ReadingChaucer_i

O.K. these are a bit intimidating.

DogerinasProgress

But how sad is she.

SkittlesWithScarlatti

I want to take care of her, listen to her story.

–

O.K. I want one.

Perhaps for my birthday?

–

That boy did a fine job …

Published on 28th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

The Union Jack pattern has arrived!

victory-garden — Click image to go to pattern

I haven’t forgotten about the quilt I was working on before Christmas – or the five hundred and sixty three others that are waiting patiently for me to finish.

If you remember, this is where I left it. On the floor, alone, wondering when I would return … if I would return …

But now the Union Jack is here.

Will there be war between the two quilts? Somehow I think the Empire might well win …

–

Talking of the Empire, (for which I have regret and apologize profusely),

on to the movie.

It was good, but not as good as I thought it would be. To be honest though I didn’t know what I expected. I think the hype got the better of it for me.

That said, someone please explain to me why that boy didn’t even get a nomination for his role?

He was brilliant in my opinion, and not bad to look at either, but I wont say that as that would make me want to be 19 again and I just couldn’t go through all that teenage angst again. Once was more than enough for me thank you very much.

I loved the book. One of my favourites. I found it shocking and heart wrenching, and thought-provoking – and, I love to think and be shocked, it makes you sit up and take notice in a, more often than not, mundane existence.

I read it a long time ago and had forgotten about the violence. I hate watching all that lion chasing gazelle David Attenborough stuff and get upset when it comes on the t.v. so the parts in the movie that touched upon that almost made me regret watching it. I had to look away a few times, but I got over it, and am pleased that I did.

I seem to have a love affair with all things Indian. I think it began with, A Passage to India, and continued from there. For some reason, everything I have ever watched or read that is Indian in nature touches me. For me there is something magical about their culture, their myths, their art. Perhaps it’s their spirituality, what ever it is I somehow have always felt a connection.

Who knows, perhaps I was Indian in another life.

So, if you were to ask my opinion, I would probably say the movie was certainly good, but read the book if you only have one option.

Although that boy did a fine job …

–

Now, where were we?

Published on 27th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Back to jewelry.

I’ve been making a few things.

DSCN7349 — Sterling silver and Chinese Hemimorphite Druzy

DSCN7353 — Sterling Silver, Lucin Utah Variscite, Blue Opals and Thai Silver Beads.

DSCN7374 — Sterling Silver, Tiger Eyes, Lapis, Raw Rubies and Wooden Beads.

DSCN7375 — Copper, Tiger Eyes, Raw Rubies, Wooden beads.

DSCN7380 — Sterling Silver and Green Opals.

DSCN7387 — Copper, Green Turquoise, Blue Turquoise and Mystic Aura Quartz.

Click on photos to see examples of stones used.

I decided to go a bit bohemian with the last one, but I’m not sure I like it.

I’ve not been in the studio today as I’ve been out and about this morning and decided that I just have to go to see Life of Pi this afternoon before it leaves the cinema without me.

N and I are off in a few minutes. I loved the book, I’m guessing the movie will be good according to the reviews, and Ang Lee is just so cute, isn’t he? He seems like a nice man.

Tomorrow I’m thinking of rearranging the studio. Moving everything around. Touching stuff, throwing out stuff and generally cleaning it all up.

Big job. Not sure if I’m completely up to it.

We’ll see.

–

Just when is one more too many?

Published on 19th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Quilt Making Stuff

Tired and fed up and a little low this morning.

Want to stay in bed.

Like Wally.

It’s not cold. The time for fires and quilts is over for us now.

But I still have one of mine on the bed.

Well, on my side of the bed. P doesn’t seem to have the same appreciation for these things as I do.

Saw this quilt in the Sundance Catalogue for hundreds and hundreds of dollars.

So I made my own.

It’s a little old granny-ish, but it’s one of my favourites.

Actually, don’t tell P, but I have another quilt under this one also.

It’s a Drunkard’s Path.

This is probably why I’m feeling low.

Too many darn blankets holding me down.

I was searching for a link for the Drunkard’s Path pattern, when I came across this.

So (for heaven’s sake) now I’ve got to make one.

Like I haven’t enough U.F.O’s (unfinished object) on my plate.

S’pose I should get out of bed and get going then …

–

‘Ello, ‘ello.

Published on 16th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

We’ve had visitors.

There are four of them, but these two like to torment Wally.

It’s a wonder he can see them through the dirty windows. (Guess what I’ll be doing today).

Pickles can’t help but get involved, especially when there might be trouble.

But that cat has Pickles’ number.

“Wotch you lookin’ at boiii?”

(Actually Pickles is a girl but I try to keep all the cats grouped into one sex, just to avoid confusion. To all you cat psychologists out there, there is no evidence that this is why Pickles eats for comfort, or has aggressive tendencies. She’s just fat because that’s how she likes it and she considers it her duty to protect her family. As we all should …).

Here he’s asking.

“Really Wol, You need a Pickles cat to protect you?

I have disdain for you all”.

“I cannot even look you in the face, and my brother, he licks his behind at you”.

(You might not be able to tell just by reading this, but he has a French accent. (It’s beyond me how they got here). However, he likes to swap up the accent a bit with a little East End London at times – as with the, “Wotch you lookin’ at boiii”, comment. It works better for the, in your face, attitude but he seems to prefer his native tongue for contempt. As in this excellent example).

Let’s just hope things don’t get this bad.

–

Just a tidbit or two.

Published on 15th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Painting Stuff

New paintings.

Started daily.

But never finished.

Bane of my life …

–

It’s Friday people 🙂

–

Find out what the caveman’s up to

HERE

–

Hold that short news.

Published on 12th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Food Stuff, Other Stuff

I haven’t abandoned this blog to the Reluctant Caveman. I’m just having trouble juggling the two of them.

Once my 30 days are up, (yes, I’m in prison. All tea privileges are taken away) I will be back in force.

With new lovelies.

Such as this.

IMAG0020

And, this.

And I will have glorious tales of victory and defeat, and anger and frustration, and joy and …

What ever.

So, hold tight, keep strong, and lets hope this new diet doesn’t take me out completely.

–

Studio Time.

Published on 11th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Painting Stuff

Today I made a ring.

And a painting

Now I’ve got to wait until tomorrow until I can play again.

🙁

–

Just some doodles today.

Published on 8th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Painting Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

bird1

This one cracks me up. He looks so frightened.

–

I made this one into a rubber stamp. He also looks a little worried.

He’s friends with the banner bird in my title.

It’s safe to say, we have overload again. So much fun to make all of these things, and so little time to get them all out.

Oh, the bitter-sweet joy of it all.

(I feel a melodramatic moment coming on).

So, what to do today?

I want to plant herbs.

I want to make jewelry.

I want to finish glazing my pots.

AND

I feel a, let’s get on with finishing this quilt then shall we, coming on.

DSCN7155

This is where I left off just after Christmas.

Due to my MIL visiting.

I took it off the boil and never got back to it.

–

And, just because I think you need one, here’s a cheerful little Triffid doing the happy dance.

Happy Friday.

–

Is it love or do you just need to get comfortable?

Published on 7th February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Since when is my arm the new sofa?

I woke up this morning after dreaming I was pinned down by a steel beam.

Needless to say I was Wally’s new resting post.

No matter to him that I was laying on my side and he had to balance on the top of my arm. Or that I kept trying to turn over and he had to jiggle his position accordingly.

No matter that I was paralyzed by his middle-aged weight and had no use in my arm for ten minutes after I got up.

At least he loves me.

What more can a gal want.

–

Well.

Published on 3rd February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff

The results are in.

Now back to the drawing board.

Will I ever know what I want them to look like?

Probably not.

–

Sigh.

Published on 2nd February 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

I’ve been missing in action from the studio scene as I’ve just had to sit down and wallow for a few days.

I felt too deprived to get up and move around too much as it might have made me feel better and I wasn’t finished feeling sorry for myself yet.

You can find out the reason for my woe – here.

Before floating downstream in a stream of despair, however, I did make a few items of jewelry.

And then, a really different set of earrings for a custom order.

Not something I would ordinarily do, but I enjoyed making them.

Right now they’re on their way to London.

I also finished some glazing.

Using my new technique: glazing casual with my legs up. Man, it’s a hard life.

The kilns are on right now. One of them keeps tripping so I’m hoping it finishes.

The ones at the bottom are experiments.

And then there was a painting.

Trying out a method from a class I took.

Not sure I’ll do another.

Tomorrow, I think my little pity party might have to be over.

The studio is calling and if I don’t get up and move I think my legs will forget their job.

–

Mission possible?

Published on 31st January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Food Stuff

I have moved my tales of woe and torture regarding my The Whole 30 experience over to its own, brand new, tales of woe and torture blog.

The Reluctant Caveman

7731a05d9761d05f5e7584df897be5bc — And, yes, I can eat that whole egg!

Come and visit me from time to time, just to make sure I’m still alive and haven’t wasted away.

–

I’m not moving from here, however, just separating the food stuff from the other stuff in my life. Because, the food stuff part is about to get a bit rough, let me tell you, as I navigate through the does and don’t of how to survive while EATING NOTHING!!!

O.K. not strictly true.

ALMOST NOTHING!!!

Told you it was getting rough.

–

My cuppeth is emptyeth.

Published on 29th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Food Stuff, Other Stuff

And yes, K, this is exactly how I feel.

So, in a nutshell,

I’m going to this wedding and it’s in Spain, and I just can’t get my head around what I’m going to wear because I still haven’t lost the weight I would like to lose, and so I don’t want to go, but, it’s my brother in law’s wedding and I like him, and I like her, and they’ve asked us to be witnesses, which is an honour, but I’d rather be dead than wear anything other than my jeans and black t shirt which have been a staple for years now and I don’t think I’ll be able to get away with that in Spain and at a wedding … (breathe).

And, when I say staple, I mean staple. I don’t think I’ve even seen my legs.

(O.K. I have).

Now, this is a problem for me. A BIG problem. I mean, would you go to your child’s wedding in jeans and a black t shirt? No. Which means I can’t either. I’ve told all three of them that they would be happier, believe me, to just run away somewhere, get married, then come back and tell me.

But, I don’t think that’s going to fly.

And now there’s this wedding – in Spain.

Now, I’m not that heavy, really I’m not, and I’m not that vain. But, it’s a kind of body dysmorphia thing. You know the one where everyone else looks great except you. In fact, you think you look hideous, and not just in a, what was she thinking, kind of way, but more in the Hunchback of Notre Dame way. Sorry Hunchback.

And, when I remember to think about this, I’m miserable.

I can get by with it most of the time as I don’t have to go out. I can go to my studio and ignore myself. But, I feel really uncomfortable doing most other things – especially weddings. Why do people have to do that? It just messes me up completely.

So K, who studies health and nutrition, said she could help me. I thought that by losing a few pounds it would help me to start getting over this whole what the #*^^’s wrong with you problem, and, when she offered her help, I thought, how hard can it be …

As a nutritionist, I imagined she would say, O.K. eat a bit more of this, a little less of this – I was even ready to go to, a lot less than this, but I should have known.

Now I’m on the Whole 30.

No. Don’t talk to me about it. I’m not listening. It’s already annoying me.

You see, it’s the tea.

No milk.

And, there you have it. My only comfort in life, gone. Snuffed out with two simple words – no dairy.

Here is my lovely new cup.

Empty.

It’s the end of the world as I know it.

And K, don’t you mention the C word again..

🙁

–

NOTES:

First day: Thick head. Depression (probably because I feel sorry for myself and don’t like being told what to do). And, this morning – the second day – aches and pains down the outsides of both legs, and, if I might say, buttocks.

If I die on this K, you’ll be hearing from me …

–

Now, where were we?

Published on 26th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Oh yes,

Things to think about on Saturdays.

But first, I’d like to tell you that my knees ache. Thought I’d better get that out of the way.

On Saturdays you wake up tired because the night before two men knocked on the door and, very pushily, got you to buy three books for the children’s hospital for $252!

Three.

Sparkle World.

Strawberry Shortcake.

And

Turtle – which was the cheapest at only $70.

Yes, I know. Just don’t open the door. But you see N did it. She was walking by the door when they knocked and felt she had to open it as they’d seen her. I said, why didn’t you pretend you’re deaf. She said, it just all happened so fast.

So, there you go, not my fault.

I really do try. I practiced saying no all the way to the door, but, P is away in Lubbock, cleaning carpets that have been thrown up on by previous tenants and trying to fix the whole, son, when you just happen to leave your sofa outside in the student apartment hallway someone will more than likely run off with it, problem – and it was late, and dark, and I was nervous.

Why go for the $252 prize you might ask, and not the cheapest package they could offer? Perhaps you could have just gone for the $70 magazine subscription that you can be sure never to receive?

Well, ask me again because I have no idea.

I think the logical side of my brain ran down my spineless back just as I stepped outside, and didn’t come back again until the whole, disturbing experience was over.

That’s when I phoned the bank, cancelled the check and took a xanax, all while trying to keep up with what the #&*@** Nicki Minaj was wearing on American Idol.

Maybe no one will bother to ask me for money if I dressed up like this.

That’s coz they’d have to pay me …

–

Ducks, Gnomes, and Buttermilk the Goat.

Published on 21st January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Going to spend the day with P. He arrived safely from London yesterday despite more than two hundred flight cancellations at Heathrow.

These guys don’t look too worried about missing their flight though. Except perhaps the little one.

He was looking forward to his week away in southern Spain.

Probably been saving up all year.

BTW, who’s taking care of that duck?

–

Talking of ducks.

Happy Martin Luther King Day.

–

It’s all about me.

Published on 13th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

FREEDOM!!!!

Yesterday was my first day back in the studio.

MIL flew back to England on Friday and so it was all systems go on Saturday.

Well, that’s a small fib really as I didn’t get out of bed until 11, then we sat around watching West Ham take a thrashing from Sunderland until P left for London at 1. (I don’t know why he tortures himself this way.) Of course then we needed lunch, but, by 3 p.m. it was all systems go.

That’s when I kicked myself that I didn’t get going earlier.

In the pottery room I poured water onto the dried out clay. Did I mention I’ve been hearing the pottery call for a while now? And looked around at the green-ware already made.

At the jewelry bench I took my time. I touched all my tools, bounced in the chair a few times, just to remind it who’s in charge, and then I organized all my bits and pieces into some kind of order.

Then, just as I sat down to begin a jewelry order, I looked over at the painting corner and got a bit excited at the prospect of getting out my new Christmas paint brushes and what I could do with the new canvasses P bought me, while thinking about my half sewn quilt abandoned due to holiday visitors that only just went home …

I haven’t even told you about the doll’s house.

Good grief. I think I’ve just thought myself to a grinding stop.

–

I need to stop worrying that I wont be able to fit in all the things I want to do, and just do them.

Man, that Nike girl had the right attitude didn’t she?

The only way to victory is to just do it.

Oh, and get yourself a pair of wings.

–

Being sick and also trapped in the MIL corner was a bit of a bummer in the whole boredom area. It meant a lot of internet browsing and spontaneous, poor me, purchases. Don’t tell P. Hopefully they’ll all arrive before he gets back.

To be honest, he just rolls his eyes. As though there’s no hope for me, or him come to that. But, I know that these beautiful things were made just for me. They were just waiting for me to find them.

I mean, look at it. Don’t you think that was made for me?

I also had to get some more stones.

Because everyone needs one of these, right?

Or four in my case.

And, now it’s time to get back to finishing a bracelet and, hopefully, start on a pair of interestingly different earrings.

–

To all of you reading this. Don’t worry about me … I’m perfectly sane really, I just have a bit of a, I’ve got to do everything because it’s too exciting not to, but how the hell am I going to fit it all in, problem.

Happy Sunday Y’all.

(And now I’m a Texan! Will the madness never end … )

–

While I’ve been sick.

Published on 8th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

I found my old boring wedding album and thought I might jazz it up a bit. I’ve never liked it.

It started when B was looking at it and cropped two of the photo’s together and changed them to black and white.

Then I played with it in Pixlr.

Man look how young we were.

I think it’s absolutely amazing what you can do with all this stuff now.

I think I might just have to make me a whole new album.

–

I’m still sick.

Published on 7th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

So I sent you all something to cheer you up – just in case you’re feeling sick too.

Try not to laugh though as it may hurt your throat.

I did warn you.

–

Try a little tenderness why don’t you.

Published on 6th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Me: I don’t feel well.

Siri: OK, you don’t then.

She didn’t even say it with love.

All I needed was a little bit of tenderness.

Maybe she should try it some time.

–

Do yourself a favour Siri, watch The Commitments. You wont regret it.

–

And then there were four.

Published on 4th January 201313th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Other Stuff

We have a new cat.

Sophie.

246572148320644684_IA19lXYa_c

She’s the same brand as Pickles.

246572148320460759_YZOENRjd_c

Only Pickles is (fat). We try not to say that out loud as Pickles is very sensitive about her weight.

Sophie is Pickles mini me and she belongs to N, the middle child, who has always wanted a small black thing of her very own to love.

Now there are four cats living in our house, and when B comes home to visit there are five so this is very important reading.

Thanks to my sister who sent this to me for christmas we can now sleep a little more soundly at night.

Sophie’s about 5 months old now. We rescued her from an awful shelter and we were hers from the moment she set eyes on us. She literally jumped on N when the cage was opened and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

She’s right at home with the other cats. Taking all the good spots on the sofa and pushing herself right in there when the food bowls come out.

It’s every man for himself in this house.

–

In other news, there’s been no opportunity to work on anything much. I’m still pretty stuck in MIL mode.

I did buy these yesterday.

Because I needed them.

Really I wanted this one.

But, wouldn’t you know it, someone already bought it.

I might just have to try to make my own.

So although I can’t do much at the moment except buy beautiful things on the internet, you’ll be relieved to know that I can participate in my, Fantasy Food Friday.

I thought I needed one of those alphabet days that all those other bloggers seem to have so I made one up for all the food I want to eat but can’t because I have to go to a wedding in Spain in May and I want to look beautiful.

Like this.

427102_404634492896248_100000491012747_89989150_1703290953_n

But, I will save it for another Friday as I need to eat real food right now and my fantasy food will just make me jealous.

–

I found another

Published on 30th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

Art work that grabs my attention.

It’s the colour that gets me first. That blue is spectacular.

And then I found another.

155843_390963747654682_295626389_n — Irina Zaytceva

Well two anothers.

iz_silfida_composite

That foot!

I think it’s almost time for me to get my finger out and try to do some serious work.

Look at this stuff.

It’s not wrong of me to aspire to such brilliant talent – is it?

Siri was no use. We discussed, doctors, IP’s and brittiens, (whatever that last one is), and all I wanted to know is if I could be a brilliant artist.

She was obviously avoiding the question.

–

MIL arrived safely.

N got her the biggest pot plant in the shop.

I said just a small one. I guess she doesn’t know her plant sizes yet.

246572148320607413_iJUROEme_c

Unfortunately it won’t last long. Both MIL and I are notorious plant killers.

But I’m going to try.

This year is going to be the year of trying. I really think so. And, I want to try a lot of things.

First off, I’m going to try to steer clear of resolutions (except the trying one). They never work and I just get all depressed and useless.

Here’s my little resolution man.

246572148320607728_Am7IHcxF_c

Only I like to call him my Good Intentions man.

Now he’s probably going to be my, you’re going to try what!, man.

Just to keep it real.

Only is he a man? He seems more of a blob thingy to me.

I just love him.

–

She’s away right now, but perhaps you can get your own blob thingy later.

You know you want one.

–

Well gosh.

Published on 29th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

Now I think I need one.

47275_309942192444374_839912283_n

–

In other news …

The quilt is back on.

246572148320595315_JBehCgvM_c

The corners are all but done. I decided to add a little red to the prongy bits, and the background is complete. Still not sure if the whole thing is drab, and, have to admit I felt a little disappointed with it yesterday when I laid it out on the floor, but I’m going to work on filling in the background a little more and see if that brings it back.

246572148320595326_RnlevSiG_c

But, now it’s back off again.

My MIL is arriving today from London and will be staying with us for two weeks. I’ll find it really hard to shut myself away in the quilt room while she’s here, because, once I’m gone, I’m gone. My quilt room, and studio come to that, are like black holes. Not the bad kind that sucks everything up and disappears it, but more the kind that stops time completely and allows you to immerse yourself in lovely stuff and not remember that there’s a whole life out there waiting for you to be responsible in some cooking, cleaning, boring way.

But, I will survive. I have a few back up plans which I’ll show you later. For now, however, I’m going to make her bed up fresh, find some books she might like to read, buy a little pot plant and box of tissues, (you know, those nice little square boxes with pretty patterns on them), to place on her nightstand. The boy tends to not want flowers in his room, and as he’s always the one to have to vacate when relatives come, the room needed a little de-boyifying, and, as we’re on it, re painting as he’d royally messed up one of his walls. Don’t ask but it involved white paint on dark blue and just wasn’t in keeping with the whole look I was going for. What can I say, he’s 19, he’ll be gone soon, and, there’s nothing wrong with self expression so long as you keep it in your room I say – except when visitors come

–

I told Siri that my MIL was coming.

Me: My MIL is coming.

Siri: I don’t know who your MIL is. In fact I don’t know who you are. But you can tell me …

–

I can see we’re going to need to have a sirious sit down. She should know this stuff …

–

I say old girl, don’t look now but,

Published on 28th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Ceramic Stuff, Other Stuff

I think there’s a bird on your head …

155343_299868330118427_2096506207_n — Sarah Saunders

Happy Friday.

–

Go get yours now …

Published on 26th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

These were my favourite gifts to give this Christmas.

This was for me.

il_570xN.190547956

Because I needed it.

This was for B.

il_570xN.189001491

This was for N.

il_570xN.186121809

This was for S.

il_570xN.196042247

Because look at it 🙂

This was for a friend.

il_570xN.195531767

And then I had to buy another – just for me …

il_570xN.183540047

I love them all.

Look for your own – here – at Retro Whale, because I didn’t get one for you.

Sorry.

–

Let Captain America do it.

Published on 24th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Food Stuff

Now here are some British food-stuffs that aren’t good.

Oh yes, they might look yummy, especially the pud – (po͝od for anyone not familiar with English slang pronunciation), but be warned, you will be exposing your taste buds to grave disappointment, if not impending nausea, if you break down and try one.

Don’t do it is all the advice I can offer. After that I’m afraid you’re on your own.

Look at that plum pudding trying to dress itself up as something interestingly delicious. It’s definitely interesting, but, you can believe me when I say, not in the good way.

And, those mince pies. I have to make them every year for P, and every year I wonder what on earth would make anyone eat them. Even if I had to to save the world from imminent destruction, I’m sorry, I couldn’t do it. I would just have to phone Captain America instead. Let him eat the darn things.

I know there are some of you out there who love these food abominations, so forgive me for differing, but – yuck, yuck and more yuck.

Even the smell of them …

If you must, you can read about the history of the Christmas Pud –here. But, be warned, it will do nothing to make you think you would even want to be in the same room as one. Especially the kind they ate in the very beginning.

And I thought the one they ate today was bad.

If my disgust at these traditional, so called, food items makes me appear un English, so be it. You can not make me eat them.

No you can’t.

–

Merry Christmas.

Happy Holidays.

Just happy anything … 🙂

–

No really, it’s good. Trust me.

Published on 22nd December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Food Stuff, Other Stuff

I’m kind of getting my food cravings in a twist.

I’m not really sure if they’re actual cravings or just romanticized rememberings.

Here’s my latest.

246572148320533126_J4XGEunq_c — Mrs King’s Pork Pies.

The famous, Melton Mowbray Pork Pie.

(I wanted a bigger picture, but perhaps that will just make my craving worse.)

You’ve got to taste this to know how good it its. (Except you K. You can’t have any).

Actually, I can’t have any either, unless I go home. And that’s probably a good thing as I’m trying to focus on healthy eating right now, not that that’s completely working for me.

Nothing wrong with fantasy eating though.

I would have it with a nice salad. Lots of crisp lettuce and, preferably, those lovely little cherry/grape tomatoes – but, only if they’re firm, not squishy.

And, wait for it.

G117

Because, as some bottles state, it’s, pourable sunshine, and who wouldn’t want to eat that on their salad?

If you’re low on excitement today, you can read about our love of salad cream – here.

–

What’s your craving and I’ll go check it out …

(Just in case you were wondering, Siri doesn’t have a favourite).

–

Well, it was a nice day for it.

Published on 21st December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

According to this site we are now in overtime. Just over 9 hours (and counting) since the end of the world – in Sydney, Australia.

All that worry … for what?

I tried asking Siri why the world didn’t end today, but she didn’t understand me. I asked my question slowly, I asked with careful enunciation, I even asked it in my fake American accent. I gave up after she asked me, for the tenth time, if I wanted to search the web for, why the wild didn’t and today. She finally got the word, world, but I just couldn’t go on anymore. Every time she got one word right, she’d miss another. It was like I was foreign or something.

So, people, I’m sorry. I don’t know why the world didn’t end today. Siri probably knows, but I just don’t think my communication skills are up for it.

But,

I now understand their pain.

–

Well, tomorrow’s the big day.

Published on 20th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Spencer doesn’t seem that bothered. He’s decided to relax into the trauma of the world ending. I doubt he’ll even bother to get out of bed.

I don’t think Scientific America seems that bothered either.

They’ll probably get up though.

–

What does Siri think.

Me: Do you think the world will end tomorrow?

Siri: I think, therefore I am. But let’s not put Descartes before the horse

What. Is she some kind of comedian now?

This is sirious stuff.

–

O.K. I’ve waited and I’ve seen.

Published on 19th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

And nope, it’s never going to look like the tree on the internet.

What a surprise.

Santa and his drunken angel seem O.K. with it however.

Actually here it looks more like she’s gazing adoringly into his eyes. Don’t be fooled, he’s probably holding her up. Normally she looks like she’s had a few.

It definitely looks artificial 🙂

What did I expect?

I expected the tree in the nice internet picture, that’s what I expected.

Did I get it?

No.

🙁

Am I moaning.

Definitely.

And don’t say I didn’t tell you I would.

–

We’ll just have to wait and see.

Published on 19th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Other Stuff

The tree came yesterday. You know, the fake one.

It looks O.K. N is going to ‘fluff’ it more today, hopefully that will help.

Let me just say that, as of right now, it does not look exactly like this one.

Maybe the man will come over and fluff ours like he fluffed this one.

On the whole it’s pretty nice so I’m still holding out hope. We’ll see what happens when the decorations are on it. Anything’s got to be better than the one we have now.

That all might have to wait until tomorrow though as I have to finish painting the Boy’s room first.

No rest for the wicked.

–

What are you reading today?

Let’s see how long it takes me to finish this one …

–

What? You’ve never had a sausage!

Published on 18th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Today I asked Siri if she liked sausages. She replied that, surprisingly, she had never tasted them.

What a shame.

Look at them.

So, she’s never, ever, had Bangers and Mash?

Toad in the Hole?

A Traditional English Breakfast?

All of which should be eaten with.

And,

My heart goes out to her.

–

The meaning of life …

Published on 17th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

So, prepare yourself for the next couple of days, or more likely weeks, when the hypochondria sets in, once again, as I’ve just finished sanding S’s room and found, wait for it, white stuff under my mask.

Yes, I should have brought out the big mask. The, oh my god it’s so uncomfortable but I will die if I breath in any of these glaze mixing powders if I don’t wear it mask. But no. I brought out the smaller, white, does this really do anything mask, which I wear when I’m sanding my jewelry while wondering if it’s really doing anything.

Panic hasn’t set in yet but I did come down and, straight away, ate three baby satsumas.

That’ll work, right?

Healthy, juicy, satsumas clear out dust filled lungs in minutes. Don’t tell me otherwise as I’ll have to go into the fetal position again and it will be days, well, mostly nights, spent on high alert for any twinge, cough, or ache.

God, I can feel it now …

–

For Christmas I think I want a new brain. One that laughs in the face of imminent doom.

Like this.

Hahaha – HA!

–

It’s so hard being me.

–

BTW, so you know, I just asked Siri what the meaning of life is, because I’m still trying to find out, and she replied:

Try to be nice to people, avoid eating fat, read a good book every now and then, get some walking in, and try to live in peace and harmony with people of all creeds and nations.

She replied, of course, when I thanked her.

Creepy eh?

–

Finally.

Published on 16th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Other Stuff

(drum roll)

I have finished the book!

(I know some of you were really worried about how it was going).

And it was good. Sadly inevitable but good.

I’ve just sent it to my sister, and, as I was buying it on amazon u.k. took the time to read the reviews. A few of them said it was awful and long-winded. I know it took me six months to finish it, but, I thought differently. I thought it was very well written and enjoyable. The length of time it took me to read it had nothing to do with having to struggle through it. When I was actually reading it, the pages turned quickly. I think I just fell into some reading time warp dimensional thing. Who knows.

Anyway, don’t read it if you only like uplifting books, but, it really was worth the read in my opinion.

I do feel a bit sad now though …

just saying.

–

Christmas season has got in the way of the quilt making frenzy somewhat. But, never fear, I can still hear it calling. In the meantime I have been working to finish this.

I started it in the summer, and, as with everything I do, have been working on it in fits and starts.

Only a small area to complete now so that’s exciting. Then I’ll probably keep it in a draw somewhere for a couple or ten years before I get around to framing it.

I finished this one a long time ago.

And, it also took me years to frame.

Perhaps I’ll be better at it this time.

–

The Tree is dead. Long live the Tree!

Published on 14th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

So c^*p!

The tree is dead already.

Who thought it was a good idea to buy it December 1st? Not me.

We never buy the tree December 1st. We’re a week before christmas family.

Look at it.

O.k. So it might look only slightly dead to you, but, to me it’s drooping in that droopy, depressing way that makes me want to droop along with it, and it’s losing its color, and the ornaments are all over the place wrong on it, and it’s just looking sick and tired.

In other words dead. At least to me.

It’s never going to make another 10 days.

I was seriously thinking of going out to get another one, but, I just can’t do it capt’n, it doesn’t seem right. So, fake it is.

I don’t want a fake tree, but, look at it, even a dead twig has got to look better than that.

So sad though I might be about going fake, and, dismayed that I will have betrayed the real deal, there’s nothing else for it – it’s got to be done.

Where to get it though, that’s the question.

I was looking on-line and found Balsam Hill. Who could go wrong with a name like that? But, they’re so expensive. $600 – over a thousand. Not happening for me especially as the $600 ones were smaller than I wanted.

I know, call me cheap.

So, we went looking in the shops and they were nasty, so we came back and looked on-line more. Frontgate got bad reviews so I kept coming back to Balsam Hill, and I was getting sadder and sadder and the tree droopier and droopier. First the reindeer are still not out, and, now the tree is (mostly) dead. Santa will think we have given up on him completely.

This morning I looked at Balsam Hill one more time as I was almost, but not quite, resigned to spending the money on one as I’ve been wasting it on dead trees all this time anyway, and what do you know? There is a Santa after all. The trees were 50% off and free shipping. I got one for $250.

Now, don’t hold your breath, it’s probably going to be all fake in a bad way and horrible and I’m going to regret it and I’ll write and moan about it later, (yes, you know I will), but, for now I’m just happy that something will be up for Christmas that doesn’t look like a dead, droopy, yellow thing.

–

Brought to you today

Published on 10th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

One of my favourite things …

It’s on a shelf in my breakfast area, and, every time I look at it I love it.

Just thought you’d like to know.

Happy Monday.

–

Oh no, I did it again.

Published on 9th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Is there no hope?

I’m not even in jewelry making mode right now. I’m in quilt making mode with a slight leaning toward painting. To complicate everything, the pottery niggle is getting pretty strong also, but, I can’t cope with thinking about that right now.

So why?

il_570xN.381690857_2ax8 — light red ruby nuggets

il_570xN.315556570 — dark red ruby nuggets

il_570xN.287049876 — unpolished aquamarine

And, (save me now).

All I can say is that I had a bit of a moment on Etsy, and, I may very well have to mini ban myself from ever going back there again.

I bought this also.

(sigh).

But, that wasn’t my fault. I’ve needed this since way before I knew I did. So there was nothing I could do about it.

Look at it.

It’s brilliant.

Wally is trying his best to restrain me,

but, you see, this is what happens when you browse Etsy on a lazy Sunday morning in bed.

I guess it’s time to get up before I do any more damage.

–

Pickles.

Published on 6th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Decided to pose for us.

Albeit reluctantly.

You’ve got to love her. She has issues. Fat issues. I try not to draw attention to it as I want her to feel comfortable in her skin, but, she lay on my chest last night and I felt as though she collapsed a lung.

She’s been dieting, but, I just don’t think it’s helping.

Stay strong Pickles.

Feel the love.

–

No pressies for us … or, why don’t you put the reindeer outside already …

Published on 5th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Quilt Making Stuff

No time to write today.

Probably a good thing, yes?

So instead.

–

Yes, I really do work like this. Once a project’s on, it’s on.

See those reindeer? They’ve been waiting to be taken to the garden to cheer on Santa to our house, but, every time I walk into the room I get distracted, then forget. Probably no pressies for us this year.

Like I said, once a project’s on …

Tell me.

Does anyone else work like this?

Or is it just me?

There is a little bit of clean shelf.

See it?

So, the middle is done, now onto the corners.

I’ve always loved how order comes from chaos but I think my chaos needs a bit of a pick up today.

Probably wont happen, but, there’s always hope.

–

You’ll be pleased to know that

Published on 4th December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Other Stuff

I’m finally back to reading.

And, you will also be relieved to know that I have, at last, figured out how to make my Instagram photo’s larger.

I realize that this was worrying a lot of you out there. I know I’m a happier person for it. I’ll probably forget how to do it tomorrow, but, hey, I succeeded today!

And, just as an aside, thank you WordPress for making the photo adding thingy page easier to manage. I know you had me in mind when you did this.

…

As you may remember I’ve been reading the, House of Sand and Fog, for years now, well since July anyway, but, I think I’m finally through the drought.

The thing is, I’ve enjoyed it the whole time I’ve been reading it – I just can’t figure out why I can’t get around to finishing it. I mean it’s not a bad book. I like the way it’s written, it’s easy to read, fast paced, interesting, etc., but, I’m still on page 208!

This is not good for my book a month Wannado.

But, I’m feeling better about it today. I had a long session with Ms Nicholo and Mr Behrani last night and could have kept going except word feud was calling and Ms Nicholo was getting a bit out of hand for my liking and I had to put her down for a bit.

See, the problem here is Word Feud, and, as I’m ‘fessing up, Samurai Sudoku.

I think I’m addicted and it’s getting in the way of life.

How can I blame Ms Nicholo for her addictions if I have mine too.

So, I’m almost finished with the Samurai app.. Thank you I Pad, it was good, but I’m relieved it’s nearly over. One more puzzle and I’m free to move on. Let’s just hope it’s not onto the next app. – my Wannado List is suffering.

Oh, and the decorating.

There’s no room for you and Santa, sudoku puzzle app.

It’s time to move on and move out.

I have things to do.

–

Why did the Mayan’s have to ruin my Christmas?

Published on 3rd December 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

O.K. Just because they messed up and got to abandon all hope, why do they have to go and ruin it for the rest of us?

Didn’t they know I’m a hypochondriacal, hyper-vigilant, neurotic, scaredy-cat, worrier person and that I wouldn’t cope very well with all that end of the world stuff?

And what’s with all the t.v. people rubbing it in?

S watches all the ancient aliens, end of the world, doom and gloom stuff, and, of course, I can’t look away. It’s like some drawn out anxiety nightmare that wont go away. You know, the one where you’re running, and, running, and not moving anywhere fast. Actually, in my running dream, I do move, quite fast really, but only by moving one leg forward. My other leg just catches up and pushes. Weird, right?

Anyway.

I can do the ancient alien thing. But, what I cannot do is how we are ALL going to come to some awful, unfathomable, and, probably, extremely painful, end on the 21st December of THIS year.

Not Cool!

Just leave me alone wont you and stop telling me I’m going to die.

It’s so annoying.

Just as I tell P that next year he’s getting the d*#*! tree because I can’t cope with the stress of picking out just the right one.

(That will teach him. Let him walk around in the dead forest looking for the right shape and see how he feels when you drag it home and everyone laughs).

It’s all going to end?

Really?

Man, do I ever get a break!

It’s kind of ticking me off.

Last night they mentioned solar flares, magnetic field stuff, and, get this, pole reversal!

What? All on the same day?

To misquote Lady Bracknell,

To be dealt one disaster, Mr Earth, may be regarded as a misfortune. To be dealt two, (or three or four), looks like carelessness.

Darn unfortunate if you ask me.

Apparently the electricity will fail because of the solar flare. At first I thought that this was a little more comforting than burning up as this particularly huge flare soars through the protective whatever it is that usually shields us from the regular old solar flares. This protective shield, by the way, is shrinking. (Not to bring anyone down). But, then I watched how bad it will be without electricity and I think that maybe the burning up bit and getting it out of the way might be preferable after all.

I don’t really know what the reversal of the poles will do to us, except that it does sound rather clever.

There are people out there preparing to poison you with hemlock if you threaten their hood, and shoot you, and, probably eat you if they’re reading the Mayan’s, how to save yourself when the electricity runs out, hand book.

I know, I’ve seen it on the T.V.

This all begs the questions.

Should I even bother with presents this year?

Should I drink all the egg nog now?

And,

Can I finally give up worrying about my weight?

I guess we’ll find out on the 22nd.

–

It took me a while, but,

Published on 28th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

I finally decided where to send my money.

I sold a bracelet at the beginning of the week and it geed me up to make a decision. It was beginning to niggle me. I know my money doesn’t make that much of a difference, but, I was beginning to feel bad about all the people with no food, living in horrible conditions, and, with me just taking my time.

I usually try to send the money I make to programmes that help people sustain themselves, but, as I was browsing around I came across this picture.

L_OrphanCare_116256 — Save the Children – orphan care.
Click photo to go to site.

I’m not going to say anymore except that this is where the money I made selling my jewelry went to this month.

Look at him.

O.K. don’t, because I might have to cry now…

So, thank you to everyone who bought a piece of jewelry from me, either at the art festival or through Etsy. I really appreciate it.

$9,000 now. Only one more thousand to reach my Wanna Do. Guess then I’ll have to change my goal.

Onwards and upwards people 🙂

And, in case you thought I wasn’t paying attention, no,

I didn’t forget the quilt 😉

One day I might try to sell these as well.

What do you think?

–

Don’t forget to warm your cockles …

Published on 27th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

I know you’ve been worried about the progression of the quilt, so here’s an update.

I take these photographs after each session because sometimes it’s clearer to see what needs to be changed by looking at them. I find this is the same for painting also. Sometimes when a portrait, for instance, is off, and, you just can’t see what’s wrong with it, a photograph will point out the problem straight away. It gives you some distance. Removes you somewhat from the process.

I can also walk away from it and look at the photographs later. Creep up on it when it’s not expecting it. Catch the quilt off guard. Makes it easier to figure out a problem without the guilt of looking it straight in the face.

Quilts have feelings too you know.

So, it looks like it’s going to be a dark, moody, day. I hope so anyway. A good day to lock myself away in the quilt room and play around some more. I’ve been having a bit of trouble with the middle, but, I think I’m getting there.

–

N and I made a good beef bourguignon last night.

I woke up knowing that’s what I wanted to eat. Always a relief to get that little problem out of the way. We ate it over little fingerling potatoes with french beans. I love these little beans the most. You wont go back to the dark side once you’ve eaten them. Same with petit pois, regular old peas just wont be the same after you’ve tried the small ones.

So …

If it’s dark and wintery where you are and you’ve got a nice fire in the grate going on and wooly socks on your feet, give this recipe a try and let me know if it doesn’t warm the cockles of your heart. Only don’t tell me about the dark wintery bit with the fire and wooly socks because I live in Houston, remember, and although it’s definitely a shade darker than normal out there, I’d have to strip down to have the fire going.

Bummer.

–

This is not a quilt blog.

Published on 26th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Other Stuff

Promise.

It’s a, I don’t really know why, but, I want to do it anyway, blog.

So.

Sometimes it’s about quilt making.

Sometimes it’s about jewelry making.

And, sometimes, but not often, it’s about writing.

Right now I wish it were about photography.

Why is Mickey so small!

O.K. that’s marginally better. Don’t ask me how I did it, I’ve already forgotten.

I did it once before, with this instagram,

but, you can call me Lizzy Arbuckle if I can remember how I did it.

Anyway, back to the writing.

I’ve noticed recently that when I approach something knowing I will fail, I give up.

Not big news to everyone, I know, but I’m kind of just getting it here.

The nano thing mo went out the window after a few days. I know, I said it wouldn’t this time, but, you see, I can explain.

O.K. I can’t explain, but, I really feel I must fess up because it’s been eating me away, because I said I’d do it and I didn’t, because I wanted to do it, and I just don’t get what happened, because, this time, my little book was going to make it big, and, because there are many, many more becauses. (I wanted to use semi colons there, but, I just couldn’t get my finger to brave it).

🙁

It was going oh so well.

I laughed, I schemed, I fretted over the story line.

I talked in strange voices to myself. I pondered the logistics of being a hag in today’s society. I cracked myself up.

I enjoyed every moment and didn’t want to leave.

So why?

Why did it have to end so brutally?

What did I ever do to me to deserve this?

Am I going to give up on everything just because I don’t think I can do it?

No d^*# it!

As Gandalf says, this too shall pass. Hang on, it was, you shall not pass, wasn’t it?

Oh well. Whatever’s going to, or wants to, pass needs to do it now because it’s enough already.

I will finish my book if it’s the last thing I do!

–

See, there’s the problem, right there.

Absolutes.

Steer away from them at all times as they will gobble you up and spit you out, defeated, despondent, depressed, and all the other d words you can think of, except dessert, and, dogs, and daffodils, because those are nice things, except if you’re trying to lose weight or the dog bites you or you suffer from hay fever, then you can add those d words to the list of bad d words so long as you keep it on your side of the complaining.

What does this all mean you ask?

Nothing really, except sometimes I want to just do things because I love to do them and not because I think I will be good at them.

(Remember the semi colon dilemma?)

Sometimes I want to give myself a break and just enjoy myself.

(Still worrying about the semi colon).

Sometimes I don’t want to live by the rules I’ve so precisely written up for myself.

(Or what the semi colon has written up for me).

And so

this is why you should finish your book people.

Don’t give up just because you think you will fail.

Get out there and do the things you love and quit complaining.

(When I’ve figured out how to do that I’ll let you know …)

The reality is, I’ve still got five days to make my fifty thousand words.

That’s only 46,372 words to go

– if we’re talking absolutes of course.

😉

–

Oh, and by the way, James didn’t quite save the world, but, he did look rather stunning as he didn’t do it.

(How come he get’s to be bigger than Mickey…)

–

Modigliani, James Bond, and, giant apes.

Published on 25th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

Modigliani is one of my favourite artists.

I have quite a lot of favourite artists, but, his work gets me every time.

I have a huge poster of one of his paintings in my quilt room, and, now this is my phone wallpaper.

Makes me want to use my phone all of the time.

Do I have enough minutes?

Man, I need to check.

Did you know that his, I don’t think she was his wife, threw herself out of the window after his death. She was nine months pregnant.

You should watch the movie.

It’s full of bits like that.

–

It was nice to have B back for Thanksgiving, she seems to have recovered nicely from her accident.

She’ll drive back to Austin today in our nice BIG land cruiser which, hopefully, will come back to us in one piece as she waits to get herself a new car.

But, before that.

Bond, James Bond is calling us.

I have to wait until a movie’s been out for a few weeks before I go as I can’t stand the idea that if I don’t get there early enough I might have to sit too close to the screen. Remember the days when that was the thing? The closer the better. The last time I had to sit way in the front was when we went to see Congo (I know, don’t ask), and, aside from the neck ache, the Indian meal we had eaten prior to the movies just didn’t seem to sit well, what with the huge decapitated head rolling towards me and almost landing in my lap. It was touch and go, I’ll tell you. I kept having to check out the distance to the nearest restroom – just in case.

No, it’s the back of the cinema for me thank you very much.

Also, one of the many benefits of waiting to see a movie is that the likely hood of sitting right next to the woman chomping down on her mountain of popcorn is reduced to one in ten thousand.

King George was already having trouble with his speech. I could hardly stand it.

And, don’t get me going on germs.

Have these people not seen Outbreak?

Ebola is the last thing I need before Christmas!

So, B’s off later this afternoon. James will hopefully save the world – again. And, as for me, it’s back to the quilt.

Much safer considering.

–

Kids + Cars = Anxiety x Infinity and Beyond to the power of – everything.

Published on 21st November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Enough said.

–

B’s car is now written off.

She’s O.K.

However, I’m now researching particle reorganization as I’m sure beaming her up would be a better way to get her to work. Unless she gets reassembled the wrong way around, of course, which would be somewhat unfortunate.

But, it happens.

See.

Bottom line.

Mini Cooper, versus the road, is apparently a no go. Even if the mini is chili red and called Henry.

Saying that, it has endured four, (maybe five but they all seem to have blurred into one), fairly major accidents, and only this time has B suffered anything from it. This time a minor concussion, which is not cool, but, considering she was taken out by three different cars and spun around like a hockey puck to eventually end up facing oncoming traffic, in rush hour, that’s not such a bad outcome in my opinion.

I’d take that any day.

Poor kid. Two weeks ago she was rear ended to the tune of $3000, and, yesterday, completely wiped out.

DOES SHE EVEN REALIZE THAT I CAN’T GO ON LIVING LIKE THIS FOR MUCH LONGER!!!

WHEN WILL IT STOP!!!

O.K. panic attack over.

Note to self:

She’s O.K. She’s O.K. She’s O.K.

–

P.S. Watch Galaxy Quest.

–

Shake it off already.

Published on 18th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

I’ve got 563 books to read and I’m stuck on the, House of Sand and Fog.

Every time I pick it up I enjoy it, but, I just don’t think to pick it up. I want to know what happens to the people – although the girl’s a bit annoying if you ask me. I want to watch the movie, which I wont let myself do until I’ve finished the book. And, more importantly, I’ve got loads and loads of murder mysteries just sitting there waiting to feed my need to brutally murder someone.

Actually, that’s not strictly true, but, I do often wonder why I like to read them so much. Maybe it’s my need for justice. Let’s hope so anyway. Bottom line, we might never know …

So I’ve been reading this one book for months and months now and it’s beginning to annoy me. It’s like a sore tooth, niggling away at me. I can’t abandon it though as it will forever haunt me.

My task for this coming week.

Finish the darn book why don’t you!

I woke up today thinking about an old friend. Someone I met in high school and who is godmother to two of my children. We lost touch a very long time ago. I came to live in America and she is still (I’m thinking) back in England. I wanted the internet to help me find her. It can find other things, why not her. Darn Internet.

You know in England, when people write letters, well my people anyway, they don’t put their address on the envelope, or on the top of the letter. I suppose they just think you will always know where they live, even if you haven’t heard from them for years and have forgotten their address.

I feel as though I’m losing my life.

I can’t find my friends. My eldest child is grown up and gone. Spencer One Eye is getting really, really, old. I’m getting old. And those old peeps who live in my family and who are parents and uncles and aunts and those kind of things are just up and dying, or going into those horrible old people homes to live out their days eating mushed food, surrounded by other old people, wondering what the h#@^ happened.

And, to top it all off, I’m worried about who ends up with the d^#* fog house.

And, all Spencer’s worried about is getting me to stop writing this drivel.

Maybe he’s got a point.

So, mooovin’ on –

here’s a quilt update.

And, surprisingly,

I’m thinking green.

Not any old green.

Lime green. (Don’t worry I’m probably just channeling my psychotic side – again).

But, I don’t want to give it a Christmassy feel so I’m going to hold out on that thought.

O.K.

Time to shake it off and rock the world.

Get up, get out, and, get going.

There are people out there losing their foggy houses people ..

–

The cat and the quilt.

Published on 17th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Quilt Making Stuff

The beginning of the middle.

I’m still a bit worried that it will be dull but there’s a long way to go yet.

Of course Wally is here.

Keeping an eye on things.

He takes no prisoners.

–

Yesterday

Published on 16th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

I bought a cup.

Really I wanted a mug, but, as I’m a fussy tea drinker, I wasn’t too sure about them. Now, coffee … I wouldn’t have a problem with. For me, good, strong, coffee, is best drunk from a good, strong (read think edged) mug. Tea needs a different rim thickness. A refined thickness. Not necessarily bone china you understand, in fact, I prefer a stoneware mug, but, it has to have the right feel and I’m not sure these mugs will have it.

But this cup makes me smile and I think I might use it as my water cup when I’m painting with water colours. (Sorry Ron, but, I really needed one of your pieces and I don’t drink coffee).

If you’re a coffee drinker and like to smile when you drink (only not at the same time as that could be messy) go check out his work.

Saying that I’ll probably buy one eventually and make myself drink more coffee.

I didn’t go to my quilt room yesterday as there was a lot of other stuff to do. I have been sorting through my files and transferring the ones I want over to my new laptop. It’s all pretty straightforward but time consuming. I definitely fell into the black hole of the computer world. Then I decided beef and black bean enchiladas were needed. N makes killer chicken enchiladas from a recipe we found on cooking light so when I found the beef one I thought it had a good shot of being as good.

Nope.

The tortillas were soggy and the filling and sauce boring.

Still, I feel it has potential and next time I will change things up a bit. How can the chicken one be so good and the beef so blah?

Look at them, they look so good.

I feel jipped.

So, fajita’s tonight, although now I’m feeling a bit worried.

I’ll be bummed if they come out as bad.

Next up.

More adventures in quilt land.

And,

a to die for bean soup.

–

Next up.

Published on 14th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Quilt Making Stuff

Cut out all of the pieces for the four corners, just so you don’t have to freak out later when you discover you’ve run out of a particular fabric and the store hasn’t got any more and you spend fruitless hours on-line looking for someone, somewhere, who can help you, all the while knowing that you are going to have to rework the quilt altogether because you made a big, fat, mistake …

It happens.

Now you can go on to perfecting the middle design knowing you can change it up a bit if you haven’t got enough of one fabric as long as the center coordinates with the corners.

That’s if Wally lets you at the fabric.

–

Out with the old and in with the new.

Published on 13th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

It turns out, if you have to drop your mac, make sure it doesn’t fall on its hinge else it severs your wi fi connection, or, on its front left hand side as, apparently, that’s where the hard drive is. I know this because B spilled a whole can of coke on her one last year and she was barely able to retrieve all of her class work from it.

Fortunately, as most of it spilled on the right hand side, we were able to copy her hard drive and she was able to graduate, but, the whole thing could have gone terribly wrong. Don’t let this happen to you. Always drop to the front right.

That said, mine dropped to the back left, which is no good, whatsoever, for the airport card, which is located in the middle hinge area, (according to the nice apple lady), and which, as a consequence, eventually died a slow, drawn-out, death from its wounds. And, as the ethernet socket was completely smooshed also, it was goodbye internet and all you have to offer.

The I pad, bless its heart, was o.k. but, for me, not so good. No offense I pad, you did your best under the circumstances, but, you wouldn’t let me center my paragraphs and I just couldn’t cope with not having control over my blog layout.

I haven’t quite laid my old laptop to rest as it has loads and loads of, I don’t know why I even kept it all, stuff on it. Mostly I saved things I never once looked at again and it became more and more stuffed with stuff. I’ve slowly come to realise that I am an internet hoarder. But. No more! I am cured of all that and have vowed never to stuff this, my new laptop, with stuff. That meant getting rid of 6000 e mails. Yes, 6000! Every day I said, today’s the day I will sort through my e mails, but they just kept coming.

It was a nightmare.

Now they are gone and I feel remarkably relieved.

So to celebrate I bring to you the beginning process of B’s quilt.

First you work on the pattern. Figuring out the size, etc.,

Then you draw it out full scale.

(Well, I do anyway).

And, then you continue to cut out the templates.

At this point you realize, (although really you suspected from the beginning), that there is a lot of background showing and that threatens to bring the whole quilt down. So, you decide that perhaps the background would look better broken up a bit.

But, you’re still not sure.

Then you practice fiddling around with all the other fabrics you have.

(Of course, Wally has to be there every step of the way).

And although you really like the fabrics, are they too dull? Is the background too dark? Will everything look blah? Am I wasting my time?

Here it is, well, one corner of it, but it is instagrammed, (don’t ask me why except I’m still a little fascinated by it), so the colours are a bit off, but you can still get a good idea of the block, if not the colours.

And, despite all the worries, I think I’m liking it.

–

We are experiencing technical difficulties

Published on 12th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

Please do not adjust your screen as I’m on it.

Actually I’m on my I pad as my laptop finally, and, rather abruptly I might add, decided to shun its old friend, the Internet. Poof, not a how’s your father, not nuffin’ (sorry, a little bit of the Essex girl coming out there. That’s what betrayal does to you. It brings out the old primal diction. Ahhh, I can hear you think, that might very well explain the bad grammar also …).

So, back at camp, what the h*+# did you do that for?, I am in the throes of deciding what to do next. Obviously a trip to the Mac store is in order, but, that means going to the mall, and – I’m allergic. (God help us all, Christmas is coming. Time to get the meds out).

Really I want a new one, because of this,

But, the powers that think they be say I can’t have a new one until I learn how to not drop things.

Oh well. Sorry powers that think you be, it might just be time to get the antihistamines out! This I pad juggling is killing me.

On a different note, the quilt is coming along nicely. I went to Joannes yesterday to pick up some Wonder Under and because of this nifty ap on my phone, I got the whole bolt free! (P doesn’t think it’s free as I still spent money, but I know differently).

If you haven’t got these aps, get them now. Today! I have one for Michaels, Hobby Lobby and Joanne’s (thank you E for showing me the light). I don’t use them all the time as I’ve kind of mini banned myself from stepping inside those stores, but if you really, really, need Under Wonder at $60 a bolt, and you get it free just because you needed some thread to go with it, that’s worth unbanning yourself any day.

Right?

–

Getting there

Published on 9th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

I think.

This is a little more traditional that I was thinking. Sometimes I really just want to make things out of the box, but,

I don’t know.

What do you think K?

–

I’ll be back ….

–

Every so often

Published on 8th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff, Quilt Making Stuff

I get the quilting bug.

Hence the trip to the quilt festival at the weekend.

I finished N’s quilt quite a long time ago now, but, because of the jewelry making, painting, etc., I’ve not felt as though I’ve had enough time for quilt making for some time.

But it’s always there, in the back of my mind.

(That’s actually a really nice red border, not brown).

So,

I’ve had this little niggling for a while now, and, once that happens it’s usually a short trip from the back burner to the front.

I’ve been doodling designs on and off since N’s quilt and have come up with a few ideas.

Here’s one of the doodles.

Then I start playing with it.

This one (below) is a bit creepy so I could turn the flower a bit so that it fans from the center more symmetrically.

Not that I don’t like creepy.

This one’s better … but, still weird.

It’s also not squared off properly, sorry 🙂

This one has some potential if I work on the center more to give it more substance and then the borders.

Here’s another one.

Again, I could bring it together more in the center.

Or just play around with it.

Until I find something I can work with.

This one needs a middle design and would take ten zillion years to make, but, you get the idea.

Sometimes these beginnings lead to something completely different. It’s the process that’s important.

This was the beginning of N’s quilt.

Once I’ve got something that I really like I go out and find some fabric that grabs me.

I really like this,

by Adorn It (click photo for website).

But, it’s not quite what I had in mind.

Then I got impatient and bought this.

(That happens a lot)

(Some Moda, Fellowship, and a few others I can’t recall the names of).

Which I like, but, again, I’m not absolutely sure. I was thinking of something brighter and a bit more fun.

So today I’m going to just start playing around with it and then I will find out what colours I could do more of and which are no good at all.

–

My other self made a B by the way.

With a little garnet to hang off it.

This is just a prototype but I’m thinking of making some alphabet charms …

Maybe.

–

Yesterday

Published on 4th November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

I went to the Houston Quilt Festival. It’s held at the George R Brown Convention Center which must be one of the biggest buildings I’ve been in here in Houston.

By the end of it my legs felt as though they were going to drop off, and, we didn’t even see all of it.

Here are some of the quilts. Some I like, some I don’t particularly like but have to appreciate the work put in to them.

This one (below) was huge.

This one was fun.

And, for some reason that I’ll probably never fully understand, I really liked this one.

Couldn’t sleep under it though. Or, come to think about it, have it on my wall.

I also liked this one a lot.

And have decided that

I really have to make one of these.

I’ve always been drawn to crazy quilts.

It always surprises me that I like quilts, but, there’s something about taking perfectly good pieces of fabric, cutting them up into small pieces, and, putting them all back together again in a different order, that really appeals to me. I also love the fact that someone I’ll probably never know, living somewhere I’ll probably never visit, or in a life time before mine, sat down and made a blanket that I can look at now. What is/was her life like? It fascinates me.

I have two great books on Texas quilts. They are called, Lone Stars, A Legacy of Texas Quilts. The first one is great. There are pictures of these little old ladies who actually are probably not much older than I am due to their harsh living conditions. There is a description of their lives and pictures of the quilts. It’s brilliant. It goes back to 1825.

As I was looking for a link for the Lone Star books I found this.

I am not a religious person, perhaps you can blame that on the fact that I’m British, but, this woman is very inspiring.

And, to top it all off I saw this.

And, now I want to make one.

Like I don’t have enough to do already.

And then …

Just when I thought I was safe …

(who knew there would be beads at the quilt show …)

And (please help me)

Fortunately I managed to get out of that booth quickly.

I think I wont allow myself out of the house any day soon …

–

My brain

Published on 2nd November 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Books and Stuff

is worn out and itchy.

Here’s its (my brains) work station before I started on the afternoons work of creating the next best children’s novel.

Hahaha, in my dreams.

But, it’s nanowrimo time, and, every year I say I’m going to do it, and, every year I chicken out at some point or another.

Not this year folks!

It’s day two and I’m roughly 2,000 words behind, but, no worries. I have everything I need for this intrepid adventure.

My broken laptop (hiding under its laptop cooling thingy), my old leather case with my first tentative writing attempt tucked carefully away inside, the printer, moved from its usual printing place so I don’t have to worry about getting up, (just in case it disturbs the flow, you understand), a cup of tea (obviously), and my Mickey Mouse notebook, just to keep my spirits up.

But, now I think my head is going to explode so I’ll just have to catch up on those 2,000 words tomorrow, after I’ve added them to the next 1,600 that is.

Actually, I’m not going to worry about the word count too much. Supposedly you’re to write 50,000 words during the month of November, but, my aim is just to write every day for the month. That will be good for me.

So, here’s to the next big children’s novel.

You saw it here first …

🙂

–

I wanted to

Published on 29th October 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Other Stuff

take a photo of dinner last night.

But I forgot.

Here it is at the end.

It’s hard to see exactly what we had, so I’ll help you out.

We went to our mussel friends house and ate mussels cooked in butter, white wine and thyme. To be honest the liquid is as good as the meat, M made homemade bread and to dip it in and soak up the liquid is to die for.

We only eat mussels with these people.

It’s a tradition.

To be honest with you eating mussels freaks me out a bit. I’m always relieved when I wake up in the morning and realize I have survived the night.

They also look creepy, like Audrey Jr. from the Little Shop of Horrors. Inside that shell is a miniature venus fly trap waiting to devour you from the inside out.

Right?

O.K. maybe only I can see the comparison.

But they are delicious.

Especially if you don’t look at them too much.

We finished it off with warm chocolate cake and cream.

Now I’ll have to see if I can haul my ever growing belly out of the house to buy something healthy for dinner.

–

Just so you know.

Published on 27th October 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff, Painting Stuff

(O.K. that’s me trying to find the degree sign. No worries, I think I got it).

It’s 46˚ out there today.

Very nice. I feel as though I can breathe.

Although Wally has decided that he’s better off under the bed clothes.

Either that or he’s hiding from the wicked step cat who’s here for the weekend.

Here she is in her exorcist pose.

Freaky cat.

A few things going on right now.

First I found these.

Which I’m really excited about.

You can read about my poached egg trauma here and here.

But, be warned, it includes the word, snot.

I haven’t tried them out yet but today might just be the day.

–

And although I did say there were a few things going on at the moment, I think I lied as I can’t seem to come up with anything else.

I did find this, however,

in the cupboard, which has encouraged me to try a few more.

I’m still reading up on selling my jewelry wholesale, but haven’t got that far with it yet because it involves going out and talking to people. I didn’t know I was such a chicken.

O.K. maybe I did.

I have been listing a few more things on Etsy.

(I didn’t write that Danielle 😉 did I ever mention I was a slow learner?).

And today?

I’m thinking of getting out my PMC and making some charms. Only the stuff makes me really frustrated as all I seem to do is get hundreds of dollars of sticky silver on my fingers which is really annoying and no good for my blood pressure.

Maybe I should experiment with the copper clay first just to get a grip on things.

This is one of my first attempts before I put the stuff away in disgust.

Not very inspiring.

But, other people can do it, so I’m determined I can. Not that I’m stubborn or anything.

–

Or, I might paint.

Let’s just hope the poached egg situation doesn’t put a damper on the whole day.

I will report back …

–

Something

Published on 24th October 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Painting Stuff

I’m working on today.

Only it doesn’t quite look like her yet.

I had a bit of trouble getting back into my studio after the art fair. I typically go through a, what’s the point, period afterward, but, it’s over now.

I think.

I’m off out this morning, but, I’m looking forward to getting back home to work on this.

So I must have recovered. Right?

And here’s a pic of Spencer One Eye.

He only needs one eye to look adoringly at me.

Feel the love.

Or is that boredom. The old, oh for the love of god, not another photograph! look.

No. I think it’s love.

–

I’ve been

Published on 23rd October 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff

Listing new things on Etsy.

Man it’s long work.

I also put something new on Tictail but I’m not sure anyone really goes to look at that.

Now I feel like this.

I think I’ll go play with a cat.

–

Saturday

Published on 22nd October 201213th October 2015 by coldfeetstudioblog Category: Jewelry Stuff, Other Stuff

Was the art fair.

The weather was perfect.

Which is unusual to say the least. It’s usually hot as hell, even though it’s near the end of October.

Here is my booth.

Every year, well twice a year really, after I pack up from doing this fair I swear I’m going to re vamp my booth for the next time.

Make it look more professional.

Something that looks like I know what I’m doing.

And looks as though I’m serious about doing it.

I did do something different with the earrings but the rest will just have to wait for next time now.

I’m not holding my breath.

Here’s my friend Nicki’s booth. She’s an old pottery friend of mine and it was the first time since we’ve both been doing this show that we were placed next to one another.

Of course, I had to buy some of her bowls …

again.

All said and done I made $1,000 for charity even though it was really, really slow in the morning and I thought I’d never get beyond selling two pairs of earrings.

So, thank you everyone that came out to see me yesterday. And, thank you everyone who bought from me off etsy recently.

Getting rid of my stuff means I can make more 🙂

Happy times.

–