Happy New Year!

The Las Vegas Strip explodes into a frenzy of fireworks, Fremont Street will experience virtual fireworks, and tens of thousands (okay, way more than that) of people will be gazing in awe and celebrating the new year in style in Las Vegas.  I live in Las Vegas, and I've never been one to join the crowds on the strip or downtown.  We normally enjoy the amazing display in the comfort of our own home.  This year, however we'll be in Wildomar, CA for a BBQ competition.

I'd like to wish you a Happy New Year, one full of good thoughts and good health...being thankful for what you have, helping others in need, and being the best person you can be.  May all our creative endeavors be successful. 

Silent Monks Singing Halleluia

I saw this on Facebook about a week ago....so creative. Love it.
E njoy and Merry Christmas.

Christmas Greetings

Merry Christmas to all our blog friends and family! 

Wishing the best to each of you this most glorious of seasons. 

I pray for peace, stability, health, family, and friends.

The gift is in His presence...not the presents.

Twiddlebugz

Crystal, Timm and kids

Show and Tell Friday

A few of my favorite things to share with you.

fabric punkins

I love the candle trio on top and the big snowman head on the wall.  I didn't get individual photos of them.

Love this reindeer. 

You know I like the ice skates. 

Signs...what can I say.  Lettering is one of my things.

Cupboard doors (I just adore this one), and the bat 

Snowmen galore, these are on a cupboard door. 

I thought this was the coolest. Unusual, like the counter.  Get lots of remarks on both.

Broken Phones

I'm sorry, but I just need to vent a little.  The cell phone insurance company is on my list today.  I guess I need to go back to last week.  I had my phone replaced after it was run over at the last craft show.  It was all good at that point. I paid my deductable, filled my claim on line, my new phone came the next day, all was right again with the world.  I'm sad and embarassed to tell you that I dropped my newly replaced phone o Sunday and the touch screen is shattered.  I couldn't believe it. ARRRRGGGGG!  It seemed to be working so I thought I'll just buy a new outer casing for it...but no.  The yuppies at the Verizon store said they don't carry any parts to replace or repair.  I couldn't even buy the pre-cut screen protector to keep the pieces in place.  Well, now the new phone is not working correctly so I decided I had to suck it up, admit defeat and pay the deductable again to replace it.  They yuppies told me I could have two claims in a 12 month period...but apparently not a week apart(they didn't tell me that part).  I thought the computer froze the screen, so I called the insurance company.  I just need to let you know that they really don't want to speak with anyone.  In fact, the gal even hung up on me.  Unbelievable...well, not really.  I called back, went through the process to get to a real person again, asked to speak to a manager or supervisor...guess what, they aren't there today.  I ended up at another dept that I was told could do the same for me.  Still, they can't help me over the phone.  I must file special paperwork, it will be reviewed, then if found to be valid, my claim will be continued and a replacement phone will be sent.  Apparently phone fraud is a huge deal, and filing claims within 6 months of each other falls under that catagory.  It's not like the one I have now will do me any good.  It will get sent to the insurance company just like the first one, they will repair it and send it out again as a remanufactured phone to the next clumsy fool.  SIGH...okay I think I'm done now.  Oh, they faxed the papers to my hubby office, I hope he brings them home tonight.
Again, I am so sorry but I just needed to get that off my chest. 

Show and Tell Friday

My craft show season is over...thankfully.  It's been a long one this year.  Normally, I am done the week before Thanksgiving...now I remember why.  I am mentally and physically done and worn out by then. 

My last event was one I've shopped at and wanted to do for several years in St. George...the Dicken's Christmas Festival.  While I had a good time, it wasn't what I expected.  The atmosphere is amazing.  The booths are decorated, lit up, and prefered to be in a Dickens village theme.  Vendors must wear costumes that are reminiscent of the period.  That was something I really stressed over.  I thought I looked cute, don't know how Dickens...but cute anyway.   

One of the gals backed out at the last minute so I had an extra 5 feet to fill.  Stressing over the whole thing, I called my best friend Diane to take her stuff with me.  Thankfully, she abliged.  Timm took Tuesday off, drove me, my stuff, the truck and toyhauler (my accomodations for 5 days) there; help me set up, got the toyhauler set up in the parking lot; enjoyed a peaceful dinner and I sent him on his way back home...along with the dogs. 

The show was full of people, I mean really full of people.  One of the fullest crowds I'd seen all season. Sadly, they were there to watch their children perform on the two stages...not really there to shop.  I swear, people ran, yes...ran, past the booths to get to the stages.  It made the 4 eleven hour days longer than they already were...and yes, I said eleven hour days.  The other girls would drop me off at the RV, I'd lock myself inside, review the days sales, and go to bed.  I'd do it all over again the next day. 

Ironically, it was started almost 30 years ago because the founders thought Christmas was getting too commercial (even back then), yet probably 85%-90% of the booths were commercial product.  A crafter has the most difficult time competing with retail product.    

Thankfully, Diane came up Friday after work, finishing the day and Saturday with me.  Timm came up on Saturday evening, bringing Diane's son.  They helped us tear down, having guys to haul stuff out is really helpful.  We spent the night and came home Sunday morning. 

A quick review...one long day setting up, 4 longer days selling a mere fraction of what I should have, seeing more strollers in one place than I thought was possible, thankfully a fairly quick tear down, 5 nights in the toyhauler, and a lost (damaged and recovered 3 days later) cell phone, a peaceful ride home and a great nights sleep in my own bed Sunday eveing. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

I wish each and everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.  Families may far apart, but not in our hearts. 

There is much to be thankful for...and not just this time of year.

I am thankful for my family.  We have 2 strong healthy boys and a sweet daughter in law.  Our oldest and his wife purchased a home this year.  Both our boys were hired permanently by their employers.  They may not be the dream jobs but they are both working and making their way in this crazy world.  Timm still works for the same company after 33 years.  I'm thankful for the stablility and comfort it brings. 

We've been married 28 years.  I'm thankful to wake up next to Timm every morning.  I can't even imagine what my life would be like without him. He is my soul mate.

My parents will be married 50 next April.  I'm thankful they are such great role models for us and so many others.  They are kind to each other, loving and giving.  I'm thankful for the values and morals they gave me, I hope I have done the same for my children.  Lord knows I've worked hard at it. 

We've not traveled much this year, but am thankful for and have enjoyed the trips we've made.  It's comforting to know that the truck and toyhauler are now paid off.   One of the first thoughts when we did that was that we'll never be homeless.  lol

We've lost a couple of friends and family this year, but they are thought of often by many. Knowing they are in Heaven makes it more comforting but we still miss them down here.

Warm Thanksgiving wishes go out to all our friends and family on this day.  Share your homes and hearts with others, spread your hospitality and give of yourself.  Share you kindness, faith, and love with others. 

Happy Thanksgiving,

The Martin's



One Show Left

That's right...just one show left. I've had a great season so I can't really complain but now I am scrambing to finish new product between now and Nov. 30.  I'll lose a few days in all that with Thanksgiving, tree hunting and window painting but I've stocked up on 5 Hour Energy and need to get some of the bigger stuff completed.  The Dickens Festival is Dec. 1-4 in St. George at the Dixie Center.  I've shopped it for years and its so much fun to be there.  I'm hoping as a vendor I'll feel the same way this year.  In the meantime, I gotta bet busy...talk to you soon.

Show and Tell Friday

I know there lots of craft shows going on this time of year.  I'll be a two of them this weekend.  The first one is going on already.  Behind the Picket Fence is a home boutique I've had the pleasure of being a part of the quite a few years.  Jen puts on a great show and its close to home for me.  Take the time to visit this one.  You won't be disappointed.

I'm doubling up this Saturday and participating in a one day show on the far northwest side of town.  Brandy and Julie had their first event in July and I think they did a terrific job.  This one is looking to be even better.  They got a large number of vendors so it should be exciting.  Let's hope the weather holds out for the vendors on the patio and grass areas.  I booked super early and will be inside...thankfully.   

So there you go...far northwest just off US95 and Durango and northeast on Sunrise Mountain.  I hope to see you at one of them.  Sunday, I'll be prepping like a mad woman for my last show of the year in St. George.  It's the Dicken's Festival...I'll give more information in a few days on that one.  In the mean time, get out there and support your local crafter!

Show and Tell Friday

It's been a whirl wind week after The Great Craft Festival last weekend.  It was a pretty good show.  My friend, Diane and I were scrambling to get enough stuff done for the booth.   We featured Christmas and Harvest.  I forgot to take photos right away so some of the stuff was already gone by the time I got around to it. 

The tall, lighted posts flew out of there!  I wish they were easy to ship, I'd list them on Etsy.   Speaking of Etsy, I've had a couple of orders this week for Thanksgiving pieces and a pattern...WOOT, WOOT!

And if I wasn't busy enough already, we have a BBQ here at home this weekend for about 40 people.  Yeah, I know, I said let's do it.  Apparently, I was out of my mind at that moment.  Everyone enjoys them so much and I hate to deny them some really tasty, smoked BBQ...and it would be spring again before we got around to it so it's this weekend.  Come on by, there will be lots of food.  Besides, we just bought this awesome smoker and Timm and the boys are dying to use it.  We've been cleaning and prepping for days and would love to have you come...it's Satuday at 2pm.  We hope to see you there.

Kind Words Are Always Appreciated.

As a crafter I can tell you that we are often left wondering if what we do is appreciated by others.  I think that's why many of us love to show our wares at craft fairs, etc.  Just hearing the positive reinforcement of others complimenting your efforts and creations is enough for us to keep creating to share with others.  Janette Paglianite is just one of those gals that has really made my day...and to have her share it on her blog...well, you know how I feel I think.  Janette Paglianite...THANK YOU!  You made my day. 

http://allinalittlepagsday.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-goodies-but-not-just-by-me.html#links

So please make another crafter's day and let them know how much you appreciate their creative efforts.

Veteran's Day

I would like to extend my heartfelt thankfulness to each and every member of the military, past and present, for their service and sacrifices made to protect this great nation of ours.  Your families have suffered and sacrificed with you even though they've not been near you...which is the biggest sacrifice of all. 
I live just a few miles from Nellis Air Force Base here in Las Vegas now, I grew up with the base as my neighbor...literally.  Planes and jets come and go all hours of the day and night.  To some, it is an annoyance but I realize it is the sound of freedom and I don't mind.  I get to watch the Thunderbirds as they practice routines and sometimes I swear I could reach out and touch them they fly over so close.  I feel priviledged to see them so often. 
I have friends that are in the military, some are retired too.  My father, uncles, and grandfathers, and father in law all served our country as well.  I want to say 'THANK YOU' for your time, integrity, devotion, pride, service and sacrifice.  They seem like such simple words but I want you all to know they come with great emotion and thought.

Next Show

If you love craft shows this is one you really should attend.  Jennifer hosts one heck of a great show.  If you're in the Vegas area this is one you gotta see.  Lots of great crafts, food, and handmade goodness!

The Craft Festival This Weekend

Come out to Cashman Center this weekend, Nov. 5-7 for the Great Craft Festival!  This is a wonderful craft show with lots of handmade crafts for home decorating, gift giving, eating, and something for yourself I'm sure.  I'll be there along with my friend, Diane with fun stuff you know you want.  Come by, say HI, shop with us...we'd sure appreciate it.  We'll be on the first aisle about halfway down.  We've been busy crafting our guts out to restock for you!  See you there!

Show Schedule Update

Circumstances have changed, thus...my show schedule has changed a bit. You won't find me at the CSN Fall Fun Fest this coming weekend.  However, I do encourage you to head out there and attend.  There will be lots of crafts from many local artists, along with concerts, carnival and more.  There will be trick or treating on Saturday afternoon as well.  It all takes place on the CSN campus at Charleston and Torrey Pines. 

Removing this show from my schedule left me feeling like I needed to replace it.  With that being said, you'll be able to find me at the Steve Powers Great Craft Festival at Cashman Center November 5-7.  Please come by and see me.  This is always a great event and I'm looking forward to being part of it once more.

Show and Tell Friday

Last weekend Timm and I drove to Reno to attend the McQueen HS Craft Faire.  It's a great show plus we get to see and visit with his brother and family while there.  It's just a great time all around.  Friday is a really long day, but we drove almost half of the distance in the dark.  It seems to go faster in the dark, maybe because you can't see landmarks.  Set up was easier this year and I was actually finished before the show opened.  Friday night sales were great.  Shoppers pay $10 on Friday evening...and the best part...no strollers or children!  I think I would shop on Friday as well.  I missed seeing a couple of friends that night.  One had a family emergency, another came on Saturday.  Timm had never been there before and was amazed at how these gals shopped.  The whole weekend was good.  Sales were up from last year, the weather was pleasant, and customers were happy.   We tore down in record time thanks to Timm and the JROTC.  I always give them a genorous donation for their efforts.  Once again, the volunteer staff put on a wonderful event! 

John and his family are doing well.  The grandkids are growing like weeds.  Oh....they have puppies!  Eight springer spaniel puppies about 3 weeks old, talk about adorable!!!  They were just starting to wonder off the bed a little, and it's amazing how they pregressed in just 4 days.  It's a good thing they weren't old enough to bring home...Cassy would be jealous anyway. 

Well, two shows down, 4 to go for my season.  The next couple are easier ones, then the last one is a 4 day show in St. George.  I'll keep you updated.  Have a great weekend.

Painting on Tin Tips

This morning Patricia at Creative Arts Lifestyle shared a great bunch of tips in her email and said we could share with friends....so, here you go my friends. 

Have you had these problems painting tin?

• Rusty Surface?

• What to Prime with?

• Chipped and Peeling Paint?

• Uneven Paint application?

• How to protect from chipping after it's finished?

Patricia Rawlinson has donned her Super-Painter Friend Cape

and will attempt to help you rescue your Tin prep in 5 easy steps!

(Dun Dun dun!) (Dramatic Music) ( I love doing that!)

Let's take a look at each of these one by one:

1: Rusty Surfaces:

Rust is a live substance, and will spread if not dealt with. Use Naval Jelly according to manufacturers directions.  This will deal with the rust. Then wash, DRY, sand, wipe of dust and Prime.

2. What to prime with?

Wipe on a coat of Multi-Surface Primer with a Varnish Sponge.

I use Deco Art (A girl after my own heart), but just remember to stay with in your brands to prevent complications.

3. Chipped and peeling Paint?

Mix some Multi-Purpose Sealer into your base coat - this helps the paint adhere.

And ALWAYS apply more than one basecoat.  If paint chips it chips in layers.

4. Uneven Basecoat application?

Using a spongy applicator is key here. 

I like to wipe on my tin basecoats with a Varnish Sponge or Foam Roller, not sure why but using a brush to apply a basecoat on Tin always leaves streaks.

5. To protect a piece of painted tin after it is painted, apply several coats of Varnish, and follow with a coat of Wax when the varnish is good and dry. Works like a Champ!

Well Super Painting Friends, Our work here is done,

(this must be read in a deep theatrical voice) (wink)

Always feel free to pass these tips along to other SUPER Painting Friends in need!

Next stop...Reno

Yup, that's right...the next stop on the Twiddlebugz tour 2010 will be in Reno at McQueen High School October 15-17.  We leave about 3:30am from Las Vegas and head out across the great, empty vastness known as the Nevada desert...it is a long uneventful drive with just a few towns to break up the view that never seems to change.  We'll hit Tonopah about sunrise and reach Reno in time for lunch.  After that, we'll set up at 1pm, the show opens at 5pm on Friday and runs through Sunday afternoon.  Timm is going with me this year.  This is a huge step for him and I'm glad he's coming.  I just hope he survives the trip.  He is bringing the propane smoker and ribs to cook for his brother's family while we're there.  He's looking forward to spending time with his brother, that's for sure. Come out to see me and lots of other creative and talented crafters at this event.

A Successful Art in the Park

This year was a great year for us at Art in the Park.  Our booth was full of shoppers from early morning till we closed up each night.  There were happy shoppers everywhere you looked.  At times you couldn't even move I think.  It's what crafters dream of for their shows. 

This is part of our Christmas display.  It took up a third of our space.  Large items sold very well.  Lighted posts, ice skates, countdown blocks and painted screens were the best sellers.

Fall was an area stuffed full of lighted posts, pumpkins and more.   Sold all but one fall door.  It's funny how things sell in streaks.  Several people would purchase the same items right behind each other. 

We had a section for baby/children.  Autumn's bows always do very well.  As it got chilly on Sunday blankets sold well when people bought them to cover up babies in strollers.

We set up an everyday area out in front of the booth.  Even with a double space we were packed to the brim.  We were so please with the outcome of the event.  Despite the rain on Friday during set up, we got it all done.  Saturday was pretty humid (especially for us dry, desert people).  Sunday cooled off quite a bit, it rained some more, and shoppers were still smiling and enjoying themselves.  I love our space, it's protected from the wind, has shade, and space behind the booth.  I've already put in for the same space for next year.   Thanks to everyone who shopped with us, gave us words of encouragement, and more.  We appreaciate each and everyone of you!

It's our anniversary

I look back and wonder where the time goes.  It's hard to believe that we've been married 28 years now.  We've had our ups and downs just like everyone else but pleased to say a lot more ups full of great memories, accomplishments, and joy. 

We've enjoyed our down to earth lifestyle...after it is the simple things in life that can bring the greatest pleasures.  Memories filled with camping, exploring, Scouting, and family...that is the best. 

I look ahead to the future knowing we will always be together.  We've thankful to both have wonderful families with parents that gave us great examples to live by.  I pray we do the same for our children.  Happy Anniversary honey...I will always love you!

Art in the Park is this weekend!

That's right! One of the biggest and best outdoor shows in the west is in our own backyard. Art in the Park will be held this coming weekend, October 2-3 at the parks in Boulder City.   This is part of my booth from last year...but I assure you I've got lots of great stuff this year as well. 

For a close parking space plan to be there early...like by 8am...but don't let parking bother you. You can ride the CAT busses that will be running every 5-10 minutes and make your day much easier and less stressful. They drop you off right at the parks and pick you up when you're finished. All fees for the busses go to a local charity for the weekend.   Look for the Southwest Diner on the way in...I painted the signs on the marqi and the side of the building.  They have delicious homestyle food by the way, I highly reccomend them.

Stop in to see me!  My space is in Bicentennial Park near the playground.  Tell me you saw this post on my blog and get a free treat! 



Show and Tell Friday

Another Friday rolls around again...I'm telling you I think there are some days missing in between them.  Well, at least it seems that way right now.  I've been to several doctor's appts recently, how I just love the annual boob squishing (I know its necessary though).  An endocrinology appointment showed improvement. Tuesday, I had a spot on my face frozen, it should be looking "lovely" just in time for my first craft show of the season.  Seriously, as nice as the doctor was I don't think he could have been any younger and still be a specialist.  Guess that means I am realizing my own age. Anywho, right now I don't think I could cover that thing with wall spackling to hide it.  P.S.  I stayed home all day.
I pulled my craft trailer up to the patio and gutted it this week.  I've needed to clean, sort, discard and donate to make room for new product I've got this year.  It's still not a completed project, but its close.  Thank goodness I don't live in Seattle or somewhere else it rains all the time...although I would truly enjoy the greener scenery.

I have completed lots of tagging of items, a couple of doors, some more screen paintings, and a few more things.  I really like this pumpkin one.  I still need to sand the edges of the frame. 

Detail isn't very good, I took it with my phone...but you get the jest of it anyway. 

Final prepartations for Art in the Park are being completed.  I enjoyed lunch with Diane yesterday, we went over lots of details, booth layout and more.  I am feeling pretty good about it this year.  If you're in the southern Nevada area (or anywhere close by) I encourage you to make the trek to Boulder City next weekend.  It's one of the best outdoor shows in the west.  I hope to see you there.

Fall Newsletter

Workshop-CandyCorn YardStake

Candy Corn Yardstake or Door Greeter Workshop

Saturday, September 25, Martin Home

10:00 am

$19

Reserve your space now

702-595-5018 or craftycritter@cox.net

Come join me and create this fun piece for Halloween.

Candy corn measures about 12" tall. Door greeter version will hang on wire.

All materials and supplies included.

My Fall Craft Show Schedule

Here it is everyone...finally.  I put much effort and time in creating a show schedule and flyer.  This year I am actually printing photos of this to mail and hand out to customers.  I just love the photo.  It's by my dear friend, Ruth Denton.  I swear, she really should pursue photography as a career.  I was going to use it last year and just never got around to using it, so this year I want to thank her for the use of this photo.

If I add any show dates they will be posted here on my blog and on Facebook. 

Please come shop with me if you have a chance.  Some cool, creative holiday and everyday pieces will be waiting just for you. 

Show and Tell Friday

Before you say it...I know I missed last week.  This dang computer of mine is dying a painful, prolonged death that is beyond frustrating to me at this point.  I did back up my files so if it should take the final plunge at least I will still have my pictures, files, etc.  I would totally freak out if I lost all that stuff.

I did make a lot of progress between the last 2 weeks.  I painted up a dozen skates.  I really like them and they are always a good seller for me. 

Can I justsay how much I like this roller skate.  I'd paint a ton of them if I could just find them.  If you have a pair or find any...please send them my way...pretty please.

Honestly, I can't remember I you've had a chance to see these yet.  There are ghosts and Frankies too.  I think I need pumpkins and bats to go with them, don't you.

Some cupboard doors have also been on the table.  A couple of snowmen ones are always a favorite.  I also completed one with a scarecrow and pumpkins that turned out awesome if I say so myself.  It's inspired by Barb Jones.  Love her new book by the way.  Camera ia charging or I'd have a picture of it for you.  Also framed up a dozen screen paintings.  I've had the dangest time finding 8x10 frames.  I have to tell you I purchased 8 1/2x11's because I didn't measure them...so stupid. 

In Wednesday's post I told you about the sign painting I did this week for a diner in Boulder City...check it out please.  That was a project I don't really want to repeat in the summer sun anytime soon. 

Have a wonderful and safe Labor Day weekend.  We'll be heading out to Mesquite, NV to the Smokin' in Mesquite BBQ Competition.  Sadly, we are not in it this year so we'll be there helping out and supporting new BBQ friends we've made this year.  I'll report on it if you'd like to read about it on my Trailhound Smokers BBQ blog. (There's a link on this blog for you). 

The New Southwest Diner Sign

This week I spent 2 long, long, long days in Boulder City repainting the sign for the Southwest Diner. Can I tell you its much taller than it looks.  Fortunately, Monday's weather worked with me for a pleasant day of 90 degrees and slight breeze.  I'm so thankful for that since I spent 11 hours crawling around on scaffolding.  I repainted all the red, taped off, and repainted the white 'restaurant' lettering, and removed the old neon tubing that didn't work anymore on  Monday.  A boom lift was ordered and I went back out on Wednesday to finish the sign.   It was hot on Wednesday and barely a breeze...and after two full days in the sun I have the burn to prove it.  I'm thankful for the boom lift, it let me work at any height I needed to.  I felt much safer as well with a cage around me.   I had precut letters at home so I traced them onto the sign and began the masking off process.  It seems like the longest part.  Several coats of paint were layed down, tape was removed and I outlined the lettering and added a little detail to fill and 'cute it up' a little (according to Cindy).  Now the sign looks great from both sides, it's nice, bright and refreshed...and way better than the old banner they had attached to the sign.  Both the owner and I are very pleased with the way it turned out.  P.S.  I suggested vinyl lettering for the lit sign with address underneath.  It will be a cleaner look when it's backlit.

Newsletter Content

I'm putting together my fall newsletter and wonder what you look forward to seeing in one.  I've got some ideas but wonder what your ideas are for one.  Do you like to find a recipe or project idea?  Time or money saving ideas, coupons?  Please post your ideas in a comment and I'll draw a winner on September 15.

Show and Tell Friday

Wow!  This was a quick week.  Busy, busy I tell ya.  I've got lots of stuff in the midst of progress including a bunch of ice skates, posts, garlands, and more.  The dining room is getting cluttered and full of stuff that needs to be tagged and boxed for shows. 

I'd like to share picture frames with you this week.  Here are several of what was completed early in the week.













I've also been working on a schedule for some fun make it-take it workshops for the holidays.  Need to get samples cut and completed so I can post pictures for ya.  Hopefully, you'll be seeing that next Friday.  Happy weekend eveyone!