Autumn Enchantment Postcards

I have been feeling the Halloween spirit in my bones lately. I really enjoyed making these autumn postcards to mail out when October draws near. With the images I am proud to use from Moonlight Journey, these adorable postcards are a cinch to make. Thank you Becky for creating these 3-1/2" X 5" Post Office Regulation Size postcards. The colors are so rich and wonderful! Who would not want to receive these lovelies?

CREDITS: "AUTUMN ENCHANTMENT" AND "WITCH POSTCARDS" CREATED BY BECKY LOYALL OF WHYMSICAL MUSINGS AND MOONLIGHT JOURNEY.

Barogue Art Tags

I have been creating new and improved art tags for a future swap. In fact, here are some highly decorated women images from the Barogue Era. Each tag has been embellished with fibers in rusty orange and brown shades, then further decorated with a dangle of crystal beads, pearls, or metallic beads. A tiny amount of diamond glitter sparkles on each tag.

These lovely ladies can be ordered from Moonlight Journey. All images are on one sheet entitled "Barogue Art Tags."

I can imagine them on that special gift package during the holiday season.

Mysterious Halloween Cards

My candle was nearly burnt out,

When, by the glimmer of the half-

extinguished light, I saw the dull

yellow eye of the creature open...

~ Mary Shelley, Frankenstein

When the latest collage sheet was posted from Moonlight Journey, I just knew I had to make something special with these. The miniature digital designs are just so detailed, that a person can become mesmerized by their beauty.

Here are a few of my favorite Halloween greeting cards using these beautiful images. They truly can be easily created in an evening. I have included some of my favorite eerie quotes in the inside of each card.

Have fun making these!

Halloween Dreams

"Deep into the darkness

peering, long I stood there,

wondering, fearing, doubting,

dreaming dreams no mortal

ever dared to dream before."

~ Edgar Allen Poe, The Raven

As the night comes sooner, and the days become shorter, I suddenly get into the Halloween spirit once again. This two page spread is for an art journal that I have been focusing on lately. There is something very magical about creating artwork when the moon laughs and whispers, "Tis near Halloween."

Got Cake?

There never was a cake I didn't like, especially chocolate fudge cake. I am fond of banana cake, the stately coconut layer cake and there's the magnificent Italian cream cake in all it's glory. And how about old-fashioned pound cake with strawberries? Or even give me a piece of angel food cake. The list goes on and on. I love that some people just have a knack for whipping up high and handsome cakes. These labors of love grace both elegant sideboards and kitchen tables as symbols of a good cook. There's a definite skill involved in measuring and mixing. You can even make a cupcake and feel proud of your accomplishment!

The results are sure worth the effort, even with paper, glue, and glitter. I made these artist trading cards to share with Becky Loyall of Whymsical Musings, and Wendy Aspinall from Bliss Angels. Like my grand daughter Lauren says, "I love cake!"

And, now for the unbelievably gorgeous artist trading cards I received from my friends, Becky and Wendy. I was completely blown away!

Artwork by Becky Loyall, Whymsical Musings

Artwork by Wendy Aspinall, Bliss Angels

Thanks you SO MUCH......these cards are amazing!

Art Tag Swap

Artwork by Nan and Pam

On the third Wednesday of each month, I meet with a bunch of gals to exchange artistic gift tags at Artful Studio. With all my other commitments, I finally decided it was time to relax somewhat and join a fun art group. Plus, you get some fresh ideas, laugh, share family stories, meet new faces, and do what you like most.

Artwork by Elise, Mary, and Jo Ellen

Artwork by Linda, Sherry, and Carole

These are the gift tags I received. Some of them are real beauties! Thank you so much Pam, Jo Ellen, Carole, Sherry, Mary, Nan, Theo, Elise, Vivi Anne, Linda, Diane, and Betty. I probably will not want to use them for the reason they were intended.

Artwork by Vive Anne, Diane, and Betty

Artwork by Theo and myself.

Thanks again, Ladies!

Mermaids in the Mist

I have quite a few projects to get done again! These mermaid cards were created with the inspiration of having a dose of The Fishnet House while visiting my mom and sister on vacation about a week ago. I am especially fond of the ocean, sea breezes, and creatures along the shore. These cards came easy for me and were just plain fun to make!

The Fishnet House is located in a small weather-beaten home off McMillan Street in downtown Grand Marais, Michigan. As soon as I walked in, it called to me. I didn't know where to start, because everywhere I turned one more fabulous thing was beckoning me to look closer and touch.

The store is best known for Kim's (the owner) mermaid paintings, furniture, and signs all with somewhat of a vintage beach style. Even though I mostly observed, I became somewhat "mermaid frenzied." The shop is an eclectic mix of art, jewelry, paintings, and locally made items with a mermaid theme. Unfortunately, she does not host a blog or web-site.

I wish I could have seen how she creates her art and how she painted some of her furniture. She sure inspired my ocean sense!

CREDITS: Seashore Elements Collage Sheet from Moonlight Journey, PHOTOS: Taken August, 2010 in Grand Marais, MI "The Fishnet House"

Tube Socks with Style

These light-weight tube socks have no heel, no bend, no thinking about those complicated short gusset rows--just mindless knitting! I came across this fabulous yarn in Petoskey, Michigan at their local craft store. I was visiting my sister and mom in the upper peninsula again and rejuvinated my knitting passion while making the long trek home.

This yarn is "Soles & More" by Sensations, and the colors somehow transform into this intricate pattern with absolutely no stressful brain work. I love them!

If only I had picked up more yarn. . .

CREDITS: "The Big Book of Socks," by Kathleen Taylor, pg. 21.

Easy Knitted Hooded Sweater

Size for 3 Year Old - $45.00 (shipping extra)

Knitting has been a constant element in my life since I have been about 10 years old. While it has at times taken a back seat to other interests, I can hardly ever recall not having some kind of project on my needles.

A couple of Christmases ago, my family gave me a set of Knit Picks circular needles. My life as a knitter has never been quite the same. I became more eager to try some difficult patterns. Last year, I even started delving deeper into the possibilities of knitting socks!

It seems once I find a pattern I like, I become somewhat obsessed and make multiple versions of the same pattern. Here are a few more of the sweaters I have made during the Spring, and most recently this black one. The pattern was simple, but the results have inspired me. The red and and blue patterned sweaters are for sale. The sweet black one with the pinwheel buttons is already taken.

Size for 3 Year old - $45.00 (shipping extra)

~ Sold ~

I hope that I can inspire you with these easy knitted sweaters. The free pattern is available through Lion Brand Yarn. Start exploring this relaxing hobby!

Take care, Nancy

Wedding Guest Register

He took the bride

about the neck,

And kissed her lips

With such a clamorous smack,

That at parting,

all the church did echo.

~William Shakespeare, 1594

In about a month my niece, Laura, will be getting married to James. This is a small Guest Signature Book that I created for the occasion. What an adventure is about to begin!

CREDITS: BACKGROUND PAPER COLORBOX "TRACEY PORTER" COLLECTION, COUPLE IMAGE DOWNLOADED FROM INTERNET.

Paris Art Tag

Two years ago this month, I stepped into the world of blogging. It started out as simply a means to stay more connected to two of my friends, Deb and Terri. Writing this blog has also helped me learn more about myself. It really can be a comfort on difficult days, when finding words and focus seem more challenging.

My blog has also provided a space for me to explore my desire to take better photos. I get so inspired by other blogs that seem to capture the simple moments of beauty, witnessing the quiet goings on in the world, and how I feel from these special times. When my creative spark may feel dim, I come to write on my blog. I choose to write about things that make me happy.

Thank you, everyone, who have enriched my life with your support, encouragement, shared stories, inspiring art, and treasured friendship. Blogging has definitely reminded me of how important each of us are, and how the simple sharing of our journeys can lift another along the way.

After a very long absence from one of my former swaps, I present my "Paris Art Tag." In exchange, I will be receiving 12 tags. Hopefully, finding new creative outlets, will expand my world just a little bit more!

CREDITS: BACKGROUND FROM PAPER WHIMSY, AND "PARIS BOOKCOVERS & BOOKMARK" COLLAGE SHEET FROM MOONLIGHT JOURNEY.

Butterfly Tree

Deep in the heart of the countryside,

Two moss maidens look on in awe,

As a miracle of creation takes place.

The spirit of the tree watches,

As her leafy offspring take flight.

Each magical leaf transforms,

Into a beautiful butterfly.

As it is shaken gently from the boughs,

Woodland fairies seize the moment,

To soar gracefully over the meadow,

Nestled safely in the delicate wings.

~Ramath Rajaram

Edited by Nancy Van Hoose

This butterfly tree has been a work in progress for my niece's wedding. It will be a decoration beside the cards for seating at her reception. I even have it done way ahead of time! And, of course, these wonderful little butterfly images are available through Moonlight Journey.

Let There Be Wings

The moment you doubt whether you can fly,

You cease for ever to be able to do it.

The reason birds can fly and we can't is simply

That they have perfect faith,

For to have faith,

Is to have wings.

J. M. Barrie

~ Peter Pan ~

I started a collaborative art journal entitled "Let There Be Wings." At the end of the year, I hopefully will get my book back with exciting entries to share. I love all things winged, so what could be more fun than this! Naturally, I turn to the images from Moonlight Journey. Their winged butterflies and gorgeous women never disappoint me.

Pocket with tag on inside cover.

"Winged Queen" with doorway skirt and flowered wheels on inside cover.

Reverse side of tag on inside cover.

Beautiful woman tag in large pocket on back cover.

Inside back cover pocket.

Thank you for dropping by today!

Masterful Men Tags

"If I never met him

I would have

dreamed him into being."

~Anzia Yezierska, 1950

"Masterful Men" images from Moonlight Journey.

Heart Whispers

I just needed to say this more than ever today. "I appreciate you." Without you, I would have less reason to create. Your encouraging words always give me reason to continue making art to share.

Here are some photos taken of the most amazing gift from my dear friend, Becky Loyall of Whymsical Musings. Since I have been recovering from some arthroscopy surgery on my right knee, she sent this to me. She definitely lifted my weary spirit with this chunkie book she calls "Heart Whispers."

It truly contains my favorite colors, vintage soft sepia colored ladies, with a hint of The Renaissance Age, coats of arms, birds, tiaras, horse drawn coaches, and nests. I love the way it subtly sparkles, and shines with crisp images of beautiful women of the past. Thank you so much my sweet friend.

Then on Saturday, another "Angel of Kindness," arrived bearing gifts of food, dessert, and an assortment of DVD's. Deb Abel is another special lady in my life. I don't know how she does all that she does. She is remarkable, artistic, and always there to listen. Thank you, Deb, for the homemade lasagna and cherry pie. Hopefully, I will be back to my normal self within the next couple of weeks.

And, not to be forgotten, I was pleasantly surprised to receive this lovely bouquet to wish for a speedy recovery. Thank you for your well-wishes, gals. I am so humbled by everyone's concern.

"Get Well Soon" Bouquet

from my artistic friends,

Deb Abel, Terri Gauthier, Kim Baslock, and Vikki Light.

I just never realized how much of an impact blogging would have in my life. Thank you all for your wonderful comments, the new friends I have met, and for all the inspiration that I see every day.