drooz doodles

where the HECK did January go?

2012-01-22T18:25:00.013-05:00

as the first month of 2012 comes to a close...

ideas swirling.

"to-do" list growing.

"WANT to-do " lists overflowing.

soul searching commencing

inspiration abounding

attempting to harness and direct my creative whims!

two weeks ago I spent 4 days at the Atlanta's Americas Mart attending the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market. I roomed with Kelly Rightsell (of Kelly B. Rightsell Designs & Jamie Lentzner (of Jamie's Painting & Design), and we were joined by London Edwards (of My Little Dish). Just the experience of hanging with these three women would have been enough to make my weekend complete! All three are artists and business owners as well as long time veterans of the baby/children's decor & gift scene. It was a priceless experience to swap business stories & ideas, analyze growth and changes with in the industry, and explore the newest trends in color, style and icons together. It did my heart good to feel the true camaraderie between us all - in an industry where i have seen the worst side of competitors & peers - it was nice to know that there are still some solid souls out there to share laughs, drinks & aspirations with.

chance meetings...

you really never know.... just be open to the possibilities! while at the show on saturday.. i stopped for a quick hummus, pretzel and water break in one of the gift floor "snack areas".. it was buzzing and all the tables were full. i really just needed to sit for a minute to rest my feet, refuel and get my game plan together for the afternoon. i saw a table full on women that had one empty chair - i wandered over and i asked if by chance I could join them... i was gladly welcomed and struck up a conversation with Laurie. I soon learned that Laurie (Laurie Wisbrun) was an artist and fabric designer ( fabulous lines with Robert Kaufman) and has a new book about to be released called Mastering the Art of Fabric Printing & Design ( available for pre-order here on Amazon... i just ordered mine!) I appreciated meeting another artist at the show ( kind of a rarity among all the buyers & exhibitors!) ... and i really look forward to getting my hands on that BOOK!

while there i also attended 2 fabulous seminars - the first was Baby & Kids Trends in Design: What's New, What's Next , Presented by the amazing Christiane Lemieux of DwellStudio- I have followed Christiane's entrepreneurial journey for years and I was so excited to hear her take on the top trends for baby & kids design - and the second "Daily Design: How the Everyday Inspirations from Blogs Change the Industry" - presented by Heather Clawson of Habitually Chic, Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan of Apartment Therapy, and again, Christiane Lemiuex - a wonderful insight into meshing all forms of social media into your business. both full of great ideas, and personal experiences.... ( i purchased Christiane's book Undecorate while i was there - for her to sign for me - and I was like a giddy school girl when talked to her a bit after class!)

back at home... barely unpacked.. and my Hello Soul. Hello Business e-course commenced. The Business Soul Sessions is presented by internationally-renowned mixed media artist and author Kelly Rae Roberts, and award-winning entrepreneur Beth Nicholls, founder of Do What You Love - together they are spreading their vision to revolutionise the way entrepreneurs approach business. so far.. so good! it's lots of work... and i'm always behind... but i do feel like i'm digging deep into what makes me tick! (they are offering the class again in April!)

online reads...

2012-01-04T08:18:00.011-05:00

-image from CasaSugar-

grab your computer and snuggle up with a warm cup of tea.. cozy up and browse CasaSugars "a look at our favorite online magazines of 2011"... it has been a sad few years as more & more of the traditional print magazines come to a close. at first i was not buying into the "online" versions .. but i have to say - they have stole my heart. better than ever design, top notch photography & content.. ( and.. shhhh.. they are free)

take a look at CasaSugars favs here.

(please take a look at my favs links list (click below or visit in the side bar)

IF YOU HAVE AN AFTERNOON TO SPARE...ONLINE READS

disclaimer: don't even start this journey unless you have a few hours to spare.

enjoy!

oh my. relax. rejoice.

2011-12-16T11:50:00.014-05:00

is it a bad thing that i just want to rush thru the holidays and just "get it all done"? each item i am able to check off the "do to" list brings me such pleasure!

i am aware that i should be relishing in sentiment, tradition, and thankfulness. i am. i did ( i checked it off the list.. so i know i did!)

i'm really am trying to step back and savor.

relax and rejoice. (it's worth a try!)

here are a few of my Holiday guilty pleasures.

the adorable and ever so creative Amy Powers is at it again.

check out the Holiday issue of Inspired Ideas... it's magical.aren't these lovely? i think i'll whip up a few this weekend.

we could use some snow flakes around here!

chillin' music. love her so much.

A Very She & Him Christmas is a collection of holiday tunes

from Zooey Deschanel (She) & M. Ward (Him).

Christmas Mojitos! this is what my guests and i will be indulging in on Christmas Eve.

this stuff is A M A Z I N G!

the sweet Katie Camaro turns out some of the best ever Hot Fudge Sauce.

10 flavors -of course good on ice cream...

but try stirring it into coffee and cocoa, heck!

my favorite way is to eat it right off the spoon!

(this is honestly on my 12yr old son's Christmas list!)

curling up on the couch with my favorite Christmas books.

(Have a wonderful Holiday and New Year... I am hereby signing off until mid January 2012! i'm working on lots of new projects, new art, new looks, & gearing up for a visit mid January visit to the Gift Mart in Atlanta to spark some inspiration and see what is on the horizon.)

ENJOY!

hello december.

2011-12-02T06:22:00.012-05:00

Santa Baby, just in case you are wondering....here's my list.

yes. i have been a very good girl.

1. zazzle -paint palette iphone case 39-

2. AREAWARE - My Brothers Frame 250-

3. Serena & Lily - hand painted Rajasthani Stripe elephant 95-

4. paper source- octopus ring 10-

5. Relevant Vintage - 80's Bermuda red clutch 22

6. UGG - hot pink classic short 150-

color, color and more color.

2011-10-11T11:11:00.004-04:00

COLOR! i just can't get enough! brighter and bolder... all the better!

i'm attempting to create, clean, and de-clutter my studio (none is really going so good!)

i keep getting side tracked by the piles of "color" in my studio...

color combinations woo me.

sometimes color NEXT to color is my "favorite" color.

what's your favorite color today....?

out of my creative box!

2011-09-09T12:52:00.018-04:00

every once in awhile i get to step out off the canvas and paper (out of my creative box!) and into something BIG and exciting! This is a project that i have helped a dear friend develop over the years... a hair salon! "Bijou" opened a few years ago... and then expanded (more than doubled) a few years later - I helped with:

-logo/design and tag line

- interior design- color palette, style, layout & over all "feel"

-sourcing, shopping and pulling the LOOK together!

-staging for photo shoots

- staging for daily design, displays and productivity

- designed & painted wall art

it is a happy place... full of comfort, color and conversation!

take a PEEK!

occasionally i help out with design items such as:

- window signs (help wanted?)

- backgrounds, banner and icons

-promos, coupons & brochures

-special events

(these signs were printed 18x36" and mounted on foamcore -

they could then "stand" in the front window on the comfy benched waiting area)

wallpaper for twitter...

stickers for bags...

stickers for bake sales!

(one of the MANY MANY ways Bijou gives back to the community!

..and promos and social media pushes.

and occasionally, i get to be a part of something REALLY BIG!

Bijou Salon was names one the Salon Todays "Salons of the YEAR!" - that's HUGE!

it was nice to help out.. and nice to be appreciated! ... Kim (owner of Bijou) says... " Shelly Kennedy, my virtual decorator and cherished friend. How many times had we done a salon in our head. You kept me focused and kept me on task. It could have never turned out so unique and wonderful without your magic touch. You made it all so easy, we just pointed and picked and didn't stress, it just happened like magic. You are magic!"

well KIM...i think you are magic too! (take a look at the amazing

cut, color & curls she created for me last week!)

if you are ever in my neck of the woods...

please be sure to check out this "little gem of a salon" in person!

(check out the Bijou website, blog, FB and twitter!)

welcome to the end of summer.

2011-09-07T07:03:00.015-04:00

welcome to the end of summer.

i have to say - i'm kind of ready.

the slower pace, the cooler weather,

and many fun Fall things to do (wear & eat!)

on my mind..... (coffee with a touch of cream and smidgen of gingerbread syrup, all-spice, cozy socks, home made baked breads, casseroles and crock pots, oatmeal, & gold jewelry)

- finally organize for (and HAVE!) the garage sale i was

going to have ALL summer.

- finally finish up a few art projects that have lingered in the

studio all summer.

- i'd like to cozy up on THIS cafe colored loveseat with my hubby:

-i'd like to make THIS:

... and sparkle in THIS:

- i'd like to kick around in THESE:

and eat THIS: (anything with Gruyere cheese really)

... and indulge in a few of these (pumpkin chocolate chip cookies)

and cozy up in THIS:

STAY COZY.

colors of the farmers market.

2011-08-10T15:04:00.002-04:00

so pretty. found some color inspiration at the farmers market.

shelly's ode to summer..

2011-07-14T18:42:00.011-04:00

august is creepin' up on us. summer is slippin' away! i still have lots of fun (and work) to focus on... so posts here many be sparse for a bit.. here i leave you with my "ode to summer". these are some of my favorite summer goodies... not necessarily meant to all be used together! enjoy!

1. Mercer's Wine Ice cream. Not just wine flavored... but it contains real wine (yes. you need to be 21 to purchase!) 2. non- toxic, eco- friendly nail polish by SCOTCH in Stiletto. 3. darn it! looks like i missed my chance on this Calypso caftan - all sold out! 4. oh. how darling. i'm a sucker for anything made by Harvey's (the Original Seat Beat Bag) - but i'm extra smitten with this picnic tote (seatbelt printed with woven wicker - the lining is red & white check!) 5. love these sandals! KorkEase - Bette. 6. black and white striped cabana - this picture is from ZGallerie...but the link is no more :( 7. Summer House: by Terry John Woods - add a touch of crisp, cool, breezy , summer decor to your place. Stay Cool. enjoy the rest of Summer...see ya soon!

in my camera.

2011-07-14T10:22:00.007-04:00

1 & 2: an early summer outdoor baby shower for a dear friend in honor of her first baby. (i know. i should have removed the plastic wrap. sorry.) don'tcha love the color of the row boat the the background. i sure do.

3. my front door sporting the drooz studio door tag "we're in the backyard" -almost sold out find it here while you can!

4. evening dinner in the backyard. candle lit of course.

5. our first delivery from our local CSA (School House Farms)! looks yummy!

6. my cutie patootie niece enjoying some belly-button-baring shorts. darling fabric.

my hometown..

2011-06-30T14:59:00.011-04:00

I'm very lucky to live in a very beautiful, special place. It is my hometown of Skaneateles, NY. Skaneateles is a small village located at the north end of Skaneateles Lake - one of the amazing Finger Lakes. Our village is full of charm and history, adorable shops & amazing historic homes and architecture - it truly is a one of a kind place. ..one of my favorite places to visit is the Lockwood Farm... "Lockwood Farm is a 120 acre flower and fiber farm overlooking Skaneateles Lake in the Finger Lakes Region of New York. Established in 1854 the farm has been in the Lockwood family for five generations. We harvest acres of wheat, barley, soybeans, corn and lavender. June through August we invite the public to pick lavender and enjoy the scenery. During the winter and spring seasons we welcome lambs to our flock of Corridale sheep" . i recently visited ... and i just had to share.. please visit their blog for amazing recipes for lavender syrup, lavender margarita, lavender & lemon pound cake, lavender salad dressing, lavender creme brulee and more.. and their facebook page for last minute goings on! if you live any where near central NY... come visit next weekend as Lockwood Lavender celebrates the 4th annual Finger Lakes Lavender Festival , Saturday, July 9th & Sunday, July 10th

all kinds of goodies, gifts & treasures...

some pretty honey stix to stir into your summer lemonade..

if you are in the neighboor.. stop by! be sure to pick up some fudge sauce from Sundaes Best (especially the Lockwood Lavender fudge sauce - to die for!)

the views from the farm are spectacular... as far as the eye can see.... lavender, lush and lake!

Gracie... the sweetest ( and cleanest ) farm dog i ever did meet!

Gracie giving me some LOVE!

don'tcha feel slightly more calm and relax now ... lavender will do that ya know.

my summertime check list

2011-06-24T19:07:00.006-04:00

are you ready? it's feeling like summer!

i'm ready... let the good "summer" times ROLL!

bright yellow canvas purse and plenty 'o bug spray. check.

big basket of pool towels strategically placed by the back door.

(don't forget to grab one on your way out to splash!) check. check.

giant wooden pedestal bowl FULL of shells from our beach travels. check

(we live steps from the lake... but on super hots days we dream of the ocean!)

outdoor furniture piled high with comfy outdoor pillows

(and gentle reminders of "exactly" what we are supposed to be doing!) check.

wire baskets to wrangle the herds of colorful flip flops that seem to multiply overnight. check.

summertime "word" of the day. LEMONADE of course! check.

quick summertime snacks to feed grumblin' tummies on the GO! check.

summer time.

B R I N G it on!

drooz (as seen here....)

2011-06-19T09:38:00.010-04:00

i have been ohhing and ahhing over this house all week. it was recently featured in the Wall Street Journal and on countless blog features last week- it is the home of author Emily Giffin (Author of Something Borrowed and Something Blue) this stunning property and house is for sale! you can view the selling specs for this amazing home here. i just love each room, the white space, all the decor, the art, the colors, the backyard checkered pattern.

i was even more delighted to see that Emily likes MY style as well!

LOOKIE here.... she choose a pair of drooz studio retro boy stretched art pieces for her twin boy's room! NICE! thanks Emily!

how very painterly of you.

2011-06-14T18:50:00.028-04:00

so, you all know i am a painter. i love color - i love original art. i have just a few of my own paintings displayed at home (i'm really much more in love with the works of others!) i have slowly started collecting original pieces - hoping to someday only have original art (vs. prints and reproductions) in our home. i have invested in a few hefty price pieces - but really wonderful pieces can be found on ebay and etsy for very reasonable costs - i have my favorites (and have small collections from Toni Grote , Bonnie Taylor Talbot and Jennifer Lanne) My tastes and preferences are all over the place- ranging from super realism to ultra modern abstract - i tend to gravitate towards high contrast & lots of color - take a peek at some of my online favorites.

Modern Contemporary Original Abstract Oil

Painting by Marissa Vogl on Etsy -

Mineolas 4 by Margaret Owen
11"x 14", oil on canvas -
see it here.
this piece would be lovely in my kitchen
love those intense colors and bold strokes .

yellow flags by Brooke Wandall of VedaArts

(Original mixed media on unstretched canvas, 10 1/2''x 9 1/2') ... can't you just imagine the party going on just out of frame?

this piece.. Eggplant and Glass Dish (6x6 oil on canvas panel)

by Linda Hunt - visit her etsy store...

( i also love her Vanity IV daily piece)

ok- probably the most unique method of painting per this bunch.. Boob Art for Breast Cancer by artist Megan Biram - Megan says" My boob paintings are a combination of abstract painting layered with prints of my boobs. Yes, you read that correctly, I actually paint my boobs and stamp them on the canvas." way to go Megan - i'd be proud to hang this in my house! just beautiful and brilliant! ( not too mention amazing topic for party conversations!)

Peonies by my good friend Hetty Easter of HREaster. her work takes my breath away - (also check out her amazing Portrait of the Day works to commission a Portrait)

love. love. LOVE this. Colors 2 by Jen Ramos of Cocoa Hearts. this piece is SOLD... but a few similar can be found here.

are you are inspired to go find yourself some favorite original art? please do. help support an artist.

Paris on the brain.

2011-06-13T16:11:00.013-04:00

oh my - where do the days go?

i'm trying to focus and get back to work...

(as I was away most of May....

and a tad behind on my to-do lists!)

but... Paris keeps popping into my head!

(i guess you might say i'm a bit distracted)

it's been a bit over a week since we returned from our fabulous, romantic, trip to Paris to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary... (yes... of course i have some photos to share!) it was my second time to Paris... first time that I visited in the Spring. Paris in the Spring.

*sigh*. heavenly.

it was a week of perfect weather, art, flea markets (yes. my husband is a Saint and actually enjoys browsing flea markets ! I am a lucky girl ) Moulin Rouge, Monet, Giverny, cafes, boat rides, bottles of wine, late night cocktails & later morning breakfasts, and explored the streets of Paris until we couldn't stand anymore (sometimes literally!) We stayed a few days on the Left Bank, and a few days on the Right Bank, ate like a King & Queen, soaked up the atmosphere and just took time to wander and see where we ended up.

i enjoyed a "creative re-charge"... everywhere i looked.. the colors, the patterns & textures, the new against the old.i love the juxtaposition of old and new, vintage and modern - that mixed with the colors and styles of Paris - perfection. i took good notes... did a bit of sketching... and am ready to put my ideas to work!

here's a peek into our trip..

so there ya have it. just a peek into the week that still has me a bit distracted.

i did have a good opportunity to put my trip and site seeing to good use on a work project this weekend! here's a sneak peek at 2 paintings (well... this is actually two portions of two paintings... i can't show the whole pieces ) that I was asked to work on this weekend for a last minute assignment. "Paris..ummm.. sure.. I can paint Paris!"

...and now for the BEST part of all! the oh so talented (and OH SO "giving" !) Jordan Ferney over at OH Happy Day blog

is running a doozie of a contest! a giveaway for a 7 DAY TRIP FOR TWO TO PARIS, FRANCE! It’s true. she's put together a major giveaway that includes 7 night stay at Mama Shelter, the hippest boutique hotel in Paris. Roundtrip Airfare from the continental United States to Paris, France.

I SO want to win this.

(i'd go back tomorrow if i could)

if you're happy and you know it....

2011-05-24T09:55:00.013-04:00

well... i'm happy and i KNOW it! it has been a marvelous MAY! full of fun, family, and new experiences! does this feather guy look familiar?? (see next post..."meet my new friends"..) this is Big Mama, and she was the inspiration for a new series of images that i just designed for Oopsy Daisy. the photos below are from a few weeks ago - we treated our son for his 12th birthday gift to a Falconry class. it was a day we'll never forget! just in case you are interested... Talons Birds of Prey in Earlville, NY ... as they say.. "Your Journey leads you through the Ancient Sport of Kings, and leaves you feeling like a Queen or a King, with a unique connection to a wonderful new Raptor Friend"

here's the gang as we wrapped up the day... my dad, my daughter, my husband, my son & me!

(OH! and BIG mama!)

next up was a weekend away with my mom and daughter. we journeyed to Saratoga Springs, NY (about 3 hrs from home) for a weekend of weekend of cafes, crafts, creatives, crepes, cupcakes and cocktails! and it did not disappoint! we visited EarthAngelsToys "Spring Fling" event hosted at the amazing Schyuler Pond.. we meet many fabulous artists, purchased a bit of bling, enjoyed a breakfast chat with Jo Packham of Where Women Create and then wrapped the weekend with a quick visit to Sharon Springs to browse at

Beekman 1802. here's mom, chloe, Jo Packham and me!

me and the cheery Katie of Sundaes Best Hot Fudge

(featured in the latest issue of Where Women Cook)

Jennifer Lanne (of Jennifer Lanne Originals) and me..

i just adore Jennifer's work... i'm happy to say i now have two of her amazing paintings!

chloe and the Betties Cakes mobile cupcake truck!

last stop of the weekend... Sharon Springs NY to Beekman 1802.

have you seen the Beekman Boys show on Planet Green?? if you haven't.. you must!

ok.. and to round out my marvelous MAY... i attended the Brimfield antiques show in Massachusetts with a gang of long time gal pals... amazing inspiration.. i coveted vintage textiles with large colorful graphics, millinery tid bits, vintage ribbons from France, an entire section of to die for "vintage industrial" looks, vintage fly fishing flies for my guys, and an amazing zinc wrapped table that i just might have to attempt to replicate!

ok. i've caught my breath.

unpacked and did the laundry,

cleared off my camera card...

repacked, and now i'm off to PARIS !!

meet my new friends...

2011-05-10T19:35:00.006-04:00

This is who I was hanging out with last week. Pretty darn cute, huh? This new cast of characters (combined here from 2 different collections) are slithering, hooting, fluttering, and humming their way into my heart! These critters are for an upcoming Oopsy Daisy project... so maybe soon they can come "hang" out at your house too?

feeling ROYAL? how about a tiny tiara

2011-04-27T17:44:00.006-04:00

ooooo

pppp

ooooo

the feeling of ROYALTY is in the air!

William & Kate.. "the Royal Wedding"..

how about "Queen for a Day" for your mom on Mothers day?

celebrate with a tiny tiara!

precious glass tiaras... beautiful cake and cupcake topper,sweet sixteen gift, party favors, tooth fairy(set on side table and place tooth inside tiara)

Each tiny tiara and Charming Crown is approximately 3 inches tall, sits upon a satin pillow & comes beautifully packaged in an acrylic cube.

Designed by Shelly Kennedy, each ornamental crown has been reproduced by skilled glass craftsmen – completely made by hand! They are fragile glass. Not a toy.

Due to the hand-made nature of the tiaras and variances in computer monitor displays, color and shape may vary slightly. Each piece is unique and makes the perfect gift for the special little prince or princess in your life.

ooooo

pppp

ooooo

and ... another.

2011-04-26T07:50:00.005-04:00

another new online magazine - and let me say they just keep getting better & better! House of Fifty... i'm in love. color. style .decor. that is reasonable, affordable and livable. (did i say "color"?) nice job ladies! just fabulous.

happy EARTH day.

2011-04-22T13:51:00.004-04:00

expand your horizons... learn how to make a change..

every little bit helps. live it UP... but do it wisely.

what you do & how you do it greatly impacts the Earth

check out this Earth Day Network Footprint Calculator -

follow the quiz and see the impact you are having on the Planet.

very enlightening.

Happy EARTH day.

happy springish

2011-04-21T09:46:00.008-04:00

do you have something to SING about? (I hope so!)

are you seeing any signs of Spring in your neck of the woods?

I'm singing... but not Springing. it's cold,cold, cold here in Central NY!

our poor robins seem a bit chilled. and i hope the easter bunny has snow boots!

Happy Springish

Happy weekend.

Happy Passover.

Happy Easter.

busy and seeking balance.

2011-04-11T15:44:00.010-04:00

oh LORDY, can you say "busy"? i sure can!

i like to be busy... but this is getting a bit ridiculous!

seek balance. so easier said than done!

so, what am i up to you ask? well...

-putting the finishing touches on a new gift line...

-working on a new website look ...

- working on new art...(spring is so darn inspiring!)

-toying again with the plans to build a new house

(designs, meetings, numbers - ugh!)

-planning LOTS of travel:: Brimfield antiques show (May 13-15),

NYC (May 16-18) , Earth Angels Spring Fling (May 21-22)

and best of all...PARIS!! end of May

with my fabulous husband to celebrate our 15th anniversary.

..and I'm just about bursting at the seams to tell you about a new business i've partnered in! it's "hush" for a few more weeks - but i can say it is exciting, and good, and very needed, and will help many! we are launching at the National Stationary Show in May.

breathe. breathe. dance around and cheer..breathe. seek balance.

(don't be alarmed if you don't hear from me for awhile!)

I found SPRING in my INBOX.

2011-04-04T07:40:00.013-04:00

i woke today to pouring rain, a dark sky that made it feel like the middle of the night, a slightly wet basement, a dog that refuses to go outside into the wetness... and i'm pretty sure i just saw a tiny snow flake float by. . a seriously gloomy Monday morning here.

SPRING was supposed to happen last week- what is going ON?

then...i opened up my email ... and there it was.

JUST what i needed. a blast of SPRING right there in my inbox!

Lovely Clusters new Spring'11 catalog.

click thru each page.. and then click again for product/seller info and purchase.

Lovely Clusters founder, Rachel Follett so perfectly describes her online gallery as ... "This is a special place to browse and shop beautiful handmade and vintage items from very creative artists and designers from around the world. Each item links to the sellers shop site where you can purchase and find more information". and... if that isn't enough beautifulness for ya.. then visit her blog- Rachel says "it is a place for people to come and relax. Escape into the world of dreamy images and tiny treasures" ... hum sounds nice. i might never leave.

remember to hoover over images for more links...

(i'm thinking Easter baskets...Mothers Day..and maybe a

Let-it-be Spring "pick me upper".... Let the shopping BEGIN!)

books..books.. & more books.

2011-03-26T09:17:00.003-04:00

oh! how i love this nursery! i saw it this morning and was thinking..." who do i know that is pregnant??... who can i share this fabulous idea with?" then i was thinking..." hummm. this application could be used in any kids room...even a family room or play room... I need to share this idea with EVERYONE"! i love books. i have way too many books. and i particularly love book covers. this is a beautiful way to display & decorate all in one - not too mention insure that ALL the books get fair reading time - not forgotten about at the bottom of the pile! i found this brilliant idea on the website of New Orleans interior designer Elizabeth Sullivan - i love the style of all her designs - and you can read even more about her on her blog modern 24/7

happy Spring!! whooHOO!

2011-03-21T07:11:00.018-04:00

Happy Spring... even though it is a rainy, dark and dreary

day here today.. I'm channeling the "Springness"!

we are covered in mud. my poor little dog spends more time

in the kitchen sink these days than in her doggie bed!

i do see hope though ... some teeny tiny fresh greens are

popping their heads out around the yard! enjoy!

happy Monday... happy Spring.

here's a few things that would make my Spring a bit brighter.

1. pink cake print

2. lulu guinness domed umbrella with a bird

3. fuchsia beanie

4. grassy green pashmina

5. showstopper knitted Jacke by Boden USA - limited edition

6. HUNTER metallic rain boots

7. vintage wicker handbag from E.B. Finds

8. flowers from Olive & Cocoa... peonies,chartreuse cabbage roses and lush roses. yum

9. for some spring snackin'.. Macaron book by Annie Rigg. double yum.

for Japan with love.

2011-03-18T06:52:00.007-04:00

consider getting involved.

consider a donation ..

in THIS way,

UNITED WAY,

maybe this way?

"your" way...

but someway.

somewhere over the rainbow.

2011-03-14T06:43:00.002-04:00

the snow is melting(ed).

everything is gray and yucky outside.

found myself browsing rainbows online to find some "cheery".

thought i'd share the colorfulness.... a little rainbow LOVE.

enjoy.

1. harry barker club bone toy

2. Jonathan Adler bargello chamomile pillow

3. MadeByGirl "i love hue" print

4. rainbow cake ... recipe here.

5. elva fields necklace (one-of-a-kinds...)

6. fabric cowl with pin in pronto Rainbow

7. color wheel bracelet

8. animal cracker crayons

000

999

s-l-o-w down. let it steep.

2011-03-10T15:58:00.019-05:00

i've been a bit under the weather lately. crazy cold/cough/sinus thing that went thru the whole house. I thought i beat it. ( i think that mad "IT" mad... now i got it worse than any of 'em!)

i've been taking in slow... feeling a bit better. i've been enjoying some tea. lots of tea.

a good friend of mine has a fabulous new website dedicated to the art of tea. take at look over at drinkT. a beautiful assortment of all types of tea, delicious flavors, and great gift ideas. for my birthday i received this loose tea filter and an assortment of loose teas. (i'm liking the Magic Moon & Kir Royal blends). it's nice to take a minute, relax, watch the tea brew... and smell it's wonderfulness! s-l-o-w down. let it steep.

i think i might like to try this honey too. pretty, huh? this "White Honey" comes from the wildflowers of Idaho. The exquisite honey has a creamy texture that melts on your tongue. It has a pure, clean taste and is perfect on fresh bread or muffins with a cup of tea."

and maybe sip my tea from these pretty cups..

lots of rest for me this weekend .. along with yummy warm tea, vitamin C and much coziness ! lots to do next week! ...m-u-s-t f-e-e-l b-e-t-t-e-r!

many fun new projects on the horizon! happy weekend!

"be inspired BLOG HOP"

2011-03-03T07:59:00.010-05:00

i'm honored to be a part of an industry group called "CopyRights- Artists Rights". The group was created by Phyllis Dobbs, " to actively help educate and spread awareness of the copyright laws"

the group has organized a "Be Inspired Blog Hop" for today, March 3, 2001. The only criteria is to show the proper way to be inspired by other's creative work but not cross the line into infringement, either by way of lawful infringement or by ethics. As we continue to try to educate, one way to do so is to show by example. So... some of the industry's most creative "creatives" will blog about "inspiration vs. copying"

here are my thoughts...

one of biggest sources of inspiration for me are the works of author and illustrator Richard Scarry. i can't pick just one image - i love them ALL! I'm inspired by his use of color, detail, text & font. What he said and how he said it. i love how he changed his style (sometimes even within one book) sometimes his designs are soft and fuzzy, sometimes they are shaded in line work, and sometimes they are modern, graphics. i appreciate his evolution. I liked that he felt comfortable enough to play with his style, and yet it still always screamed "Richard Scarry"! there is no mistaking it!

even though i rarely paint "characters" or "figures" - i still feel that i draw much inspiration from his work. the whimsy, the sense of humor, the classic essence, the use, importance of and appreciation of everyday objects, the story book feel - that's what i try to capture in my own style.my use of colors, color combos, pattern, shading, line work ( i tend to "over-outline"!) and sense of detail i feel truly stem from my early love of Richard Scarry book.

here are a few examples of how i feel his works have inspired mine!

please note: all works shown are copyrighted by drooz studio.

all Richard Scarry images are copyrighted by Richard Scarry

this blog hop was organized by Brenda Pinnick - check out her post for an updated link list of creatives who participated!

welcome MARCH!

2011-03-01T10:51:00.012-05:00

in honor of the glorious first day of March... i'm sharing one of my flickr mosaics.. "fresh in green"! here are some of my photo clips featuring home, art, celebrations, & my recent trip to the Amazon! (so freakin' GREEN!). enjoy! Happy March!

dreaming of far away places...

2011-02-28T11:40:00.005-05:00

i've been away on a wonderful adventure! we just got back from a week in New Orleans filled with Jazz, Creole, museums, culture, art, parades & beads galore! i was all ready to get back to work... focus, focus! ...instead... i was just flipping thru my mail.. and YIPPIE! chasing fireflies early summer 2011 catalog is featuring my Exotic Kingdom peel & place wall art! now i'm all revved up for another trip to a far-away land! i love the wall color they choose for their photo shoot... and and really adore the items they have paired with the art - truly transforming any space into a "dream of far way places!"

was it sweet?

2011-02-14T20:15:00.010-05:00

mine was. Valentines Day that is. pretty darn close to perfect. started the day with a stop at my friend (Cindy's) house. Cindy hosts the most delightful annual Valentines Tea. friends, tea, crafting supplies - to make Valentines of course!- and cookies GALORE! these little stone hearts were on her window sill..

cookie break. yum

you think they look good? trust me... they tasted even better!

cindy's front door

"please come in.." then home to make a romantic dinner for FOUR - (me, hubby & the 2 kiddos!) i gave each of the kids a teeny tiny box of Truffles from here .. these Moon Struck Chocolates are my favorite - beautiful and so de-lish!

sweet hubby got a new bottle of scotch and these darling "MR. & MRS." whiskey glasses - one for me too! got them here. (click over for a better photo.. mine were hard to capture!)

and i couldn't have been happier with MY Valentine! the giant coffee table Tricia Guild book i had been eyeing at the bookstore... so so beautiful! the fabric wrapped spine, bright orange page edges, and black and white stripe bookmark ribbon - contents (color..patterns and space) pretty darn sweet too!

hope yours was sweet too.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

color inspiration=bolds

2011-02-04T09:23:00.004-05:00

they say "art imitates life". i guess so. i've been known to like a color or two from time to time! (my front door alone has been every color of the rainbow) here's a color story of a few of my favorite photos i've taken {my home, travels, etc} combined with some of my latest creations. i like it BOLD - what can i say? com'on color. don't be shy.

-vivid, pattern, bold, saturated, crisp, clean, true-

sometimes it's not an actual "color" - but "that" color next to a "color" that gets me most.

what inspires you? where do you find a creative spark? what's your favorite color?

drooz is growin' up.

2011-01-31T16:41:00.006-05:00

yeah! yeah! drooz studio is growing up.
the new "teen" & "home" collections are here!

"for ten years I have designed art geared towards infants and toddlers. now, and as my own children are growing up, I have been inspired to "grow" my design style as well. I'm so proud of my latest creations and the messages they share. ...a collection of images that are geared toward a teen sensibility. with two pre-teens in our house (one girl, one boy!) we are going through lots of changes here! social, personal, academic, spiritual - you name it! I find myself wanting to boost my kids confidence more and more as they deal with new issues- encourage them to be the best they can be and inspire them to greatness.... or at least help them make it thru the day! my focus in these designs is to provoke positive messaging, motivation, inspiration, celebration, encouragement,and over-all daily reminders "to be your best".

these giclee prints (offered by Oopsy Daisy and available at drooz.com) were originally created by Shelly Kennedy using photography, hand painting, collage, vintage images, and digital altering. over 60 new images - they are available in a BOY teen collection, GIRL teen collection and a HOME collection. the TEEN collection pieces are 14 x 14. HOME collection 18 x18. also offered is a trio and a "9 square" in each series (shown above).

can't live w/o for 2011

2011-01-26T19:00:00.016-05:00

we are almost a month into this new year ... here are a few of my new "favorite finds"- items i think i just can not live without in 2011!

1. my arsenal of METHOD cleaning products. i have slowly replaced all my cleaning goods with these wonderful, all natural, amazing smelling products. (next step... add in some Young Living Theives cleaner) 2. i have a thing for pencils. these rock. they are never too far from their counterpart -the black sharpie fine point. 3. GELISH - soak off nail polish - in dark grey. a-m-a-z-i-n-g. really lasts 2 weeks, and i am terribly tough on my hands. (must be professionally applied - save your pennies, the manicure is so worth it!.. inquire at your local salon) 4. like they say, Bumble & Bumbles "surf spray" delivers sexy, salty, sun-dried, windswept styles - whenever, wherever. who can argue with that? 5. love it. Kellogg's Special K Cinnamon & Pecan cereal- a crunchy mix of rice and wheat flakes, sprinkled with cinnamon and pecans.- could eat it all day. probably shouldn't. 6. my two favorite flavors - brought to you by weight watchers, dark chocolate & raspberry ice cream bars - rich, dark chocolate flavored coating on the outside and cool, low-fat raspberry ice cream on the inside. seriously decadent. 7. i just discovered this company FRESH - and i'm in LOVE with all the products - my 2 favs.. Black Tea cream and.. 8. the Soy face Cleanser - silky smooth, one of the best face products ever! both are perfect for winter- light but super effective. 9. it's all about the sparkle - 9 & 10 don't disappoint! bare minerals body lingerie - a puff of sheer, lush, SPARKLE - plus it looks so pretty sitting on your dresser! 10. BENEFIT ( really can't go wrong with anything they make) Bella Bomba Blush - a 3D brightening pink face powder - perfect rosy shade

(and a few things I CAN live without for 2011)

1. my trusty ol' DELL laptop. I'm sorry DELL - you were a steady faithful friend for over 10 years.. but the MACbook has wooed me to no end. you will always hold a special place in my heart. 2. copy cats. nough said.

3. meat?? my 13 yr old daughter is almost a year into vegetarianism . we are cooking a veggie option for each meal- I might just give the whole "veggie thing" a whirl.

be your ORIGINAL best.

2011-01-20T09:55:00.000-05:00

please check out and SUPPORT this new effort!

a topic very near & very dear to my heart.. "be your ORIGINAL best" is an effort to promote a copycat free artistic industry and creative community. PLEASE visit the website.. grab the button and proudly place on your blog or website! (be sure to email me so i can add your blog to the "originals list")

want to contribute? are you a creative or artist that has dealt with this situation - an intentional rip-off of your artwork or design? email me for details to be a featured guest blogger.

be sure to LIKE the facebook fan page here.

shout it OUT!! be your ORIGINAL best!

room redo update

2011-01-12T07:07:00.001-05:00

ok - were are DONE! here are some befores and afters...

and my pre-lim room idea sketch...

love it! ( these photos stink .. we have not have a sunny day in awhile!)

homework area

and... as a guest room - sweet! aero beds, and bed skirts help the "futon" couches act more like twin beds. ( PLUS those futon couches have storage underneath to store aerobed and bedding!)

this awesome new mirror didn't make the cut for the new room...

but I found a spot in the hallway for it!

WhooHOO! lamp sighting!

2011-01-06T12:44:00.008-05:00

I saw it again on last night's hilarious new episode of Modern Family.. the Rose Lamp from Oopsy Daisy... shade artwork by drooz studio!

(thanks Oopsy Daisy!) it is so SO pretty. trust me.

find it here.

winter wonderland ... AGAIN!

2011-01-05T09:31:00.005-05:00

it's beautiful. we went from muddy thaw to winter wonderland "overnight"! it's a blizzard out there! no school. (again. ugh). mommy has work to do.. kids seem to be a bit lazy today (nice!) maybe some sledding later? we are warm & cozy hunkered down... enjoy your day!

happy new year!

2010-12-31T12:18:00.001-05:00

make it a colorful one!

kitchen details...

2010-12-27T21:36:00.003-05:00

we've been entertaining the idea of building a new house for the past two years.. my idea files are bursting at the seams... i was cleaning out my computer files (I DID get the new 17" macBook on my wish list!) and while browsing thru my "kitchen" ideas found a handful of images that appeared a handful of times each (funny how you know when you "like" something.. you "LIKE" something!..ie. I keep saving the same images over & over again!) i spent lots of time in my kitchen over the weekend ... and while i do LOVE it.. i could easily love any of these too!

( last 2 are my fav!) enjoy!

(so sorry... i don't have credits for any of these.. if you do... please let me know!)

happy holidays 2010!

2010-12-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

i wish you a holiday full of feathers & family, gingerbread & generosity, champagne & carols, gumballs & greetings, trees & toasts, and COLOR & calm. cheers!

favorite "new"...

2010-12-22T08:34:00.001-05:00

i don't really consider myself very "techy".. but i'm getting there! this is my favorite "new app find". it is called TeuxDeux (get it.. "to do"?) it is an easy to use, easy to read, easy to edit basic "to do " list. i'm learning i can't live with out it! try it and see for yourself.

Christmas tree..."TAKE TWO"

2010-12-21T09:36:00.005-05:00

oh my goodness. we put our tree up a bit early i guess -Thanksgiving weekend... but that's when we usually do.. and so far so good. not the case this year! my husband & son chose an adorable tree, cut it down fresh and brought it home. i'm not too sure what was going on .. but it was dropping needles almost immediately! the living room sounded like a giant rain stick - every time someone walked by, closed the front door, or God forbid, sat on the couch - the tree would "rain" it's needles... "please.. no sudden or quick movement around the tree! i thought it would survive at least until Christmas day - but yesterday the ornaments started to s-l-i-d-e right off. OK.. this is NOT good! Time for "Christmas tree...TAKE TWO"!! I've always wanted a fake white Christmas tree. it might just be the artist in me ...a big, white tree is like a giant 3d canvas just awaiting pops of color and cheer! so.. i did it! i went and purchased a super cheap white tree (we WILL be attempting FRESH again next Christmas!) took all the ornaments off, the lights off, and swept up needles for hours and TA-DA! a most festive, fake, colorful and non-shedding tree! -and I LOVE it! 1. droopy, sad, dead real tree.

2. no, that's not a green tree skrit!

3. taking the lights off really did her IN!

4. ta-da! there we GO! aaaa. that's better!

special delivery

2010-12-19T08:23:00.011-05:00

so... i was thinking... maybe ALL of my mail and packages should be addressed to: " The Lovely" Shelly Kennedy - it think that would be really nice. right, huh?

this particular package happens to be from jeanne oliver's etsy shop , a bushel and a peck. {I met jeanne last year at silver bella '09.. but had been following her blog for a bit that I had read about in the book Blogging for Bliss by Tara Frey. she was sweet and friendly and had a rocking selection of goods at her silver bella boutique booth - I was hooked}

so back to the box. the bummer is ... i couldn't WAIT to open it... and then i saw how beautiful it was inside... and then i HATED to open it {steel gray tissue, twine, photos, hand stamped gift tags, and vintage page papers} i stared at it's gorgeousness for awhile - I finally unwrapped completely (being ever so careful) - and wow! can that girl make GOOD stuff! I have purchased many items from her - gifts and goodies for myself - but, man, this one takes the cake.

here it is.. The Lilia Camera Bag. (yes - i know one should not be purchasing large-ish gifts for them self right before the holidays... but... i just couldn't resist! plus.. it will help me with one of my new years resolutions of taking more, better, photos!) This bag has a pocket for your memory cards, cell phone and a larger pocket for keys, makeup etc. There is also dividers for two extra lens and then room for your camera body and lens. it is made of the most beautiful thick, plush, velvety tapestry type fabric - and has a plump velvet rose pin too! i'm in love.

last 2 photos property of jeanne oliver

be sure to check out her shoppe, and her blog {filled with most delicious music, photos, stories & style you ever will see} enjoy!

PS. afternoon update!! here i am sporting my new bag and an afternoon walk around town ("with my little dog too!", Stella, all dressed for Christmas!)

lust list

2010-12-16T11:41:00.006-05:00

so this is the season of "giving".. {and "wanting"... and "lusting"..}

here's my ridiculous list of-just-for-fun things I "LUST for"..

1. atelier chesterfield - antropologie - 5,988.00

2. french industrial coffee table -wisteria- 599.00

3. good karma snake cocktail ring - tracy porter - 325.00

4. dancers- original oil painting - jane hill studio - 1,500.00

5. new country by ethan allen quincy bed - 2,000.00

before and after...

2010-12-14T10:21:00.010-05:00

a room "flip-flip" update... as some of you remember... (and many have reminded me that i never posted "after" pics) we had a smallish home project going on here a few weeks ago.we are almost complete... (when will I ever learn that there are NO small projects!)we decided to flip flop 2 rooms: our 12 yr old daughter would take the guest room (going from the largest room the house to the smallest room) and her old room would become a large up stairs family/guest room (after pics of that space SOON!)

before: hum-ho, neutral guest room.. cozy and warm - but not so "wow". after: lounge-like, bold "teenager" bedroom, "dressing room" style - lots of drama and bling!

everyone is very pleased with the results! and so, while her room & bed shrunk considerable,she gained a 10 foot closet space! my husband opened up what was once a very small closet and built a new closet into the entire lenght of the north wall - now flanked in gunmetal satin curtains her room feels like a "dressing room" - elegant and flashy!

(wall, trim, lighting, and some minor floor repair, as well as some serious clutter control issues and many trips for salvation army drop-offs... added a few weekends to the project - but well worth the wait) here's my before drawing - we came pretty close

ok..ok.. yes! i DO have a wish list...

2010-12-13T08:20:00.015-05:00

1. classic truth pendant by Pieces of a Girl

2. macBook Pro (17" please)

3. The I Hate to Cook Book: 50th Anniversary Edition

4. anything...{maybe the Urchin bowl} at ElementsofClay @etsy

5. the newest iPhone. I'm still running the first edition 8GB, and, while i adore it... its time for an upgrade!

6. and, of course I will need a new custom a.b.sutton phone case too!

(the same as I have, vintage silver, chartreuse checker silk liner)

7. Jonathan Adler monogram pillow (so happens "S" will work nicely for me) ( I know, I KNOW... i could open a pillow store with what i have... but what's one more?)

8. i've had my eye on this for years...pier one mirrored Hayworth jewelry amoire... here's the thing. I'd like two please.

9. Le Creuset Stainless Steel Teakettle.

10. marimekko bath towels. these beautiful assorted colors...

in my camera..

2010-12-06T17:03:00.007-05:00

sweet. it was gingerbread house weekend here at home.

1. holiday still life with my new fredflare.com lump of coal

2. ready, set GO! (my husband designs, cuts and bakes ALL those pieces!)

3. candy... we ate and ate.. and put a little on the houses too!

4. whipping the royal icing. (still scraping it off the floors today!)

5. our finished candy cottage.

6. welcome! come on in!

adore!!

2010-12-03T10:32:00.003-05:00

while I'm experiencing the first snow storm of winter here in central NY..adore online magazine (based in Australia) is celebrating the release of their SUMMER issue! filled with bright and beautiful images... clean, fresh, & crisp ... makes me feel warmer already! enjoy!

quite enamored.

2010-12-01T12:00:00.003-05:00

i'm quite enamored with www.handhhome.com. those girls have a good eye. sweet furniture, decor, accessories. i wish lived closer to Atlanta this weekend to help celebrate at their Holiday POP- UP shop. (here's a few goodies from their site that i'm drooling over.)

holiday glitter...

2010-11-28T21:19:00.004-05:00

make a new festive wreath for the front door... CHECK!
get the Christmas tree... CHECK!
order Holiday cards... CHECK!

design the annual gingerbread house...CHECK!

order a new holiday "fancy" dress...CHECK!

whoo... we were busy little holiday bees around here this weekend!

a few more days and we'll be turning the calendar to December!

a little snow would be nice, perhaps a download of the new Annie Lennox Holiday album to get welcome in the last month of the year!

let the Dickens begin!

2010-11-26T11:18:00.008-05:00

we live in the most beautiful little village in Central New York, Skaneateles NY. (it is where i grew up and my family still lives) it is always quaint and historical.. but today even more so! today starts our local town tradition of Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles. Our daughter, Chloe, has been participating for 5 years! she has attended weekend long rehearsals for the month of November... and today .. it's SHOWTIME!

it is glorious! the entire village is transformed into a Victorian wonderland!

Charles Dickens, Queen Victoria, Scrooge, Tiny Tim, Jacob Marley and the whole gang are here! carols, carriage rides, roasted chestnuts, stories at the Library with Mother Goose! The family friendly event - produced by Scarlett Rat Entertainment and sponsored by the Skaneateles area business community & draws over 20,000 visitors each year (sat & sun between Thanksgiving and Christmas)

here's our little Chloe ( last year - age 11... she was a Prohibition Lady!

my husband and I made the signs! they were very funny!)

this year Chloe has decided to be an Orphan ... they get to run around the village, in cahoots with the pick pockets makin' lots of trouble!.. she thinks that will be lots of fun! no more beautiful costumes of velvet, fur, and bonnets trimmed with berries & lace! this year its drab and dirty... no color, no frills..! (and no make up, cell phones, nail polish... etc!) one must play the part you know! tonight i'm making her a burlap satchel so that she can carry her phone, tissues, chapstix, etc... discretely concealed within the correct time period! i told her her can make it look like and old flour or potato sack she found in the trash and fashioned into a bag.. she liked that!

she'll look a bit more like "this"... lurking in doorways and swiping chestnuts from the cart vendors!so... if you anywhere near here... I highly suggest a road trip!

and for those of you far, far away... I wish you could see it.. you would LOVE it! it is a great way to start the season! cheers!

featured artist of the day..

2010-11-23T08:13:00.007-05:00

I am so happy to be the 'Little Birdie'

Featured Artist of the Day over at Brave Girls Club!! Founded in 2009 by sisters Melody & Kathy, The Brave Girls Club is “a worldwide community of women who want to live the best, happiest, most productive and fabulously brave life they can possibly live…”

Through their website, blog, daily truth emails, Brave Girl Camp & Retreats as well as online classes they want to remind all women to feel…“safe, capable, powerful, happy, encouraged, connected, reminded & alive!” They do this because they just want to change the world, one BRAVE GIRL at a time.

Please check out their blog (full of amazing stories, recipes, people, art, and adventures) … & be sure to sign up for “daily truths” emails… a perfect way to start each day!

I do hope to make it to camp SOMEDAY! (preferable the mother/daughter retreat) an amazing retreat nestled in the mountains of Idaho.. until then... I'll visit with the brave girls online... and maybe I'll even get brave enough sign up for "Soul Restoration...a six-week online workshop"

ppppp

enjoy!!

pppppp

(ps.. the featured "SOAR" artwork will

be available thru drooz.com in Jan'11!)

pppp

holiday:: matthew mead

2010-11-17T22:02:00.005-05:00

it's here! it's HERE! mine arrived today! it is beautiful... it even feels beautiful! pages & pages of glorious celebrations, sweets, recipes, and holiday decor. i'm talking about the long awaited release of matthew meads HOLIDAY book-a-zine! purchase it on-line only.. here. just flipping the pages puts me instantly into the holiday spirit.

i'm ready.. let's GO! bring it on!

modern{vintage} daily reminders

2010-11-08T08:25:00.007-05:00

ta da! i've hinted and shown a peek here and there.. but i'm so excited to officially unveil part 1 (the "home" collection) of the new drooz wall art collection! 60 new wall art designs - to be offered thru Oopsy Daisy fine art for kids this January.

"modern{vintage} daily reminders" :: these new pieces are a combination of design, typography, vintage clip art, my painting & photography then paired with my wording & sentiments.

for ten years I have designed art geared towards infants and toddlers. now, and as my own children are growing up, I have been inspired
to "grow" my design style as well. I'm so proud of my latest creations and the messages they share. (parts 2 & 3 of the collection (I'll show soon) are 20+ designs for teenage girls, and 20+ designs for teenage boys:: with two pre-teens in our house (one girl, one boy!) we are going through lots of changes here! social, personal, academic, spiritual - you name it!I find myself wanting to boost my kids confidence more and more as they deal with new issues- encourage them to be the best they can be and inspire them to greatness.... or at least help them make it thru the day!) my focus in these designs is to provoke positive messaging, motivation, inspiration, celebration, encouragement, and over-all daily reminders.

here's the "home" collection - enjoy!

weekend warrior

2010-11-04T12:00:00.000-04:00

we are planning some room flip-flopping here at home this weekend...ugh. i'm not looking forward to the "work"... but am very anxious for the end result! we are taking our daughter's room (which happens to be the largest room in the house) and turning it into a family room/guest room.

before:

(TO DO: paint walls white... ugh. with lots of primer. purchased: new black curtains, 2 convertable sofa/futon/sleepers, 4 red floor pillows, zebra ottoman, new TV ( other accessories re-purposed and recused from storage!)

after:

= new, spacious, 2nd floor family/guest room

we are taking the now "guest room" (the smallest room in the house) and making that our daughter's "new" bedroom. she's a sport for going along with this (trading her largest room for the smallest room)- but she too realizes that she rarely hangs out in her room- and that the large space will be much better used as a family space. (movie nite, wii, sleep-overs, space to hang with friends - out of the way of mom & dad!)

before:

(TO DO: rip up the carpet, paint the walls a dark silvery grey, new curtains, open up the "single" closet to the "single" closet next door to make a double closet, snuggle a twin bed into the nook, using bed risers for lots of under bed storage, re-frame wall art, paint current desk - black) purchased: pink fuzzy pillows, zebra rug, hot pink twin sheets, black comforter.

after:

= swanky, cozy lounge bedroom for a very savvy 12 year old

(lets' see how close I can come to my $1500.00 "design on a dime" budget! the more i save... the bigger the new TV!)

wish list...

2010-11-01T13:30:00.007-04:00

with Halloween all done.. and welcoming in November today.. it's time for wish lists and a shift of focus to some holiday shopping... here's my a few of my favorite things! find these (and many, many more goodies!) ... all at Layla Grayce.

1.Currey and Company Elixir Chandelier::
we hope to build a new house soon -

i'd like two of these for my new giant closet!

2.Abigail Rosebud Headband::
this is so lovely. a perfect accessory for the holidays.
i love the texture of the roses.

3.Aidan Gray Decor Wire Laundry Basket with Linen::
I love all things "aidan gray".
i'd like to fill my entire house with that line.
i'm happy to start with the laundry basket.

4.Thomas Paul Birds and Bees Linen Pillow::
i have a bit of a throw pillow obsession.
i'd like this one for my sons room

(it is a Charles Darwin science lab theme)

5.Aqua Stripe Photo Album with Rhinestone Buckle::
i love this color combination. and i'm a sucker for anything rhinestone! i'd like to use this as a scrap book for overflow images off of my "vision board".

PS. be sure to take a peek at this Layla Grayce blog entry ...

featuring ME as the guest artist blogger! thanks Girls!

happy halloween!

2010-10-30T12:50:00.005-04:00

be sweet, be creepy, be festive, be fun, BE-WARE!

happy halloween from drooz doodles!

"Project Wings" : angel artist fundraiser

2010-10-28T10:48:00.007-04:00

as more and more public schools are experiencing budget cuts..seems like the "arts" are the first thing to "go". breaks my heart. our local high school drama department is just A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! each year they perform 2, maybe 3 wonderful, top notch productions.... this year, they just received word that due to budget cuts, they will only be able to perform ONE show. (with just one show per year... there are not enough parts for everyone that might want to participate.. some kids who might be a "star" in the making will miss out) so sad. a good friend of mine, local business owner, and someone that is ALWAYS ready to rally, jump in, and help out (Kim Baker of Bijou Salon) organized a very special fundraiser to help out... and maybe generate enough funds to permit a second, end of the year drama production.

"Project Wings"(Artists interpreting: "It's a Wonderful Life") here's my donation - set of (4) 8x8 mixed media titled- "daily reminders"

(these are based on a NEW series from drooz studio: 50 wall art design pieces debuting in January thru Oopsy Daisy. the new line will consist of 10 "home" designs", 20 "girl" designs, and 20 "boy" designs targeted towards the teen market - each sending a message of positive thought, encouragement and motivation)

... if you are local.. be sure to stop by "Imagine THAT" Skaneateles NY : Oct 31-Nov 4th for "buy it now" option. 15 Artists: 15 Angels: 15 Paintings.

raffle tickets will be sold at the drama production dates Nov 4th - Nov 6th for remaining paintings.

drooz doodles

where the HECK did January go?

online reads...

oh my. relax. rejoice.

hello december.

color, color and more color.

out of my creative box!

welcome to the end of summer.

colors of the farmers market.

shelly's ode to summer..

in my camera.

my hometown..

my summertime check list

drooz (as seen here....)

how very painterly of you.

Modern Contemporary Original Abstract Oil

Painting by Marissa Vogl on Etsy -

Mineolas 4 by Margaret Owen 11"x 14", oil on canvas - see it here. this piece would be lovely in my kitchenlove those intense colors and bold strokes .

Paris on the brain.

if you're happy and you know it....

meet my new friends...

feeling ROYAL? how about a tiny tiara

and ... another.

happy EARTH day.

happy springish

busy and seeking balance.

I found SPRING in my INBOX.

books..books.. & more books.

happy Spring!! whooHOO!

for Japan with love.

somewhere over the rainbow.

s-l-o-w down. let it steep.

"be inspired BLOG HOP"

welcome MARCH!

dreaming of far away places...

was it sweet?

color inspiration=bolds

drooz is growin' up.

can't live w/o for 2011

be your ORIGINAL best.

room redo update

WhooHOO! lamp sighting!

winter wonderland ... AGAIN!

happy new year!

kitchen details...

happy holidays 2010!

favorite "new"...

Christmas tree..."TAKE TWO"

special delivery

lust list

before and after...

ok..ok.. yes! i DO have a wish list...

in my camera..

adore!!

quite enamored.

holiday glitter...

let the Dickens begin!

featured artist of the day..

holiday:: matthew mead

modern{vintage} daily reminders

weekend warrior

wish list...

happy halloween!

"Project Wings" : angel artist fundraiser

Mineolas 4 by Margaret Owen
11"x 14", oil on canvas -
see it here.
this piece would be lovely in my kitchen
love those intense colors and bold strokes .