The Queen Speaks

ArtFire Venture

2012-01-13T05:02:00.000-07:00

Please come and visit my shop on ArtFire. Here is a small sampling of the items I have in the Nest for you!

Write a Letter - Support a Soldier

2011-01-04T22:35:00.000-07:00

Cobwebs & Magpies

2010-07-18T05:40:00.000-06:00

Boy...there are lots of cobwebs around here! Someone hasn't been taking very good care of this place...

This is just a quick note to let you know I am fighting my way back - I have missed all of you and hate how much time has gone by. I'm really trying...and should be back soon. I will have an enormous announcement when I do return.

What's that? Oh, you want a clue to the announcement? I guess that's the least I can do. Here is the only clue I can give right now...

Any ideas?

I miss you guys!!

xx,

I'm Sorry - But Thank You

2010-03-11T04:49:00.001-07:00

Yes, I admit it - I'm a terrible hostess. I've not posted anything in way too long, and left all you wonderful people floundering around. Not that you flounder without the presence of the Queen - I'm not that disillusioned. I just mean it's so rude to go visiting someone and have them just disappear. I apologize for my poor manners.

Then again, if I were to always apologize for my poor manners, I doubt I would get anything else done.

I've been battling the back thing...and frankly, am quite sick of it. However, I do have some great news I want to share with you guys...but it will have to wait. This post will be quick, but I wanted to dedicate it to a special friend.

Are you familiar with FishHawk from As The Crackerhead Crumbles? He is a wonderful man, who continues to be my friend even though he certainly must question my sanity. Often. I truly believe you should be appreciative of those who make a difference in your life - and he has. He's been a very good friend and has listened to my whining and complaining.

How many men do you know who will do that?!

He is a true gem - and if you haven't had the pleasure of reading his blogs (the other is The Crackerhead Chronicles - fascinating stuff!), I encourage you to do so. He has a heart of gold and has given me hope. That is a big deal when one is stuck in the mud.

I'm a stick in the mud?

I also wanted to thank everyone who left comments on my last post. I have the sweetest friends and blogging buddies in the universe - and I know it. I was so touched by the kindness of your comments...I actually let the kid live. Ha ha

Thank you for loving me when I'm not real lovable - and for being the best friends in Blogland or anywhere else!

xx,

PSA

2010-02-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

I don't feel good. Hive Girl is making a recovery - although she still has hives. My oldest teenager has worn me out. Last night was the latest round, and because I wouldn't allow him to go outside - at 9 pm, 20* outside - to meet with a kid who just got out of juvie (and is a well known drug user/dealer), he flipped out. He pulled a knife on himself - and every time I would say he could not go meet this nefarious punk, he would cut his wrist.

Before I get a bunch of comments and email about what a horrible parent I am, let me make this quick point: he's been diagnosed with ADHD and bipolar. We've been in therapy since he was 2 1/2 - he's almost 17. He's been hospitalized 7-9 times in the psych ward. I have to call the police on him when he becomes violent. I've been through this with him countless times - and the "cuts" he was making on his wrist were extremely superficial, most not even breaking the skin like a scratch would. As a former paramedic, I know what the laws are...as a current mom, I know what needs. That is not said to be arrogant - this is just so cyclic with him, I know how the ordeal works. I also know what calms the situation down...and what escalates it.

I didn't mean to go off on that lil' tangent...but I really don't want a bunch of comments/emails saying he should be hospitalized, he has issues, etc. I'm already aware of these things - remember, I've done this dance for about 14 years. And I've done it all on my own - not like I had his father or a husband involved, or to lean on.

So...he's worn me out. I'm sure the stress is what's gotten me sick...but I feel something akin to something really rotten. (I'll spare you the mental image I was going to paint - I don't want anyone spitting Corn Flakes or Diet Coke on their screen. Or having nightmares.) I'm going back to bed.

Before I retire to the Royal Rubber Room (aka master bedroom) of Castle Crazy, I wanted to share something I feel is important. Most of my buddies who read my blog, write blogs themselves. While checking out Mama Asid's ENTREPOD blog today, I came across an informative post. "How bout a Lil Bad Behaviour, Honey" should be required reading for anyone running a website - whether you run/own a domain, write a blog on Blogger or Wordpress, or program websites in any form or fashion.

Mama Asid, aka Re, is a wonderful person - with talent coming out of every pore she has. She's a talented BadGals Radio Wonder Woman, podcaster, amazing blogger, wonderful website designer, and just all-around "more smarter than me" - especially in reference to running great websites that are clean, informative, tackle interesting issues, and frequently updated. Basically, she's the Super Woman I aspire to be. I have no idea where she gets all the hours in the day - or how she's learned all this stuff...but she has. Plus, she has a heart of gold...and she shares all this knowledge freely. Awesome!

Read the post I linked to. I'll admit I don't fully understand it - but I'm smart enough to know it's important. I've followed her advice - and in the spirit of wanting to help and protect my blogging buddies, I think it's worth your time and consideration, too.

That ends my Public Service Announcement for the day. Go about your business...I'm going back to bed. I apologize in advance for not sprinkling this post with pictures. You can find a beautiful picture of a flower on Re's post I pointed you to.

xx,

Wanna Win a Flip? The Video Boss & Patina Soul

2010-02-13T15:03:00.001-07:00

Yeah, so do I. I only wish I had one to give away. Ok, so I really wish I had one of my own to tell you about.

Since I don't have one - or have one to give away - here's the next best thing: I know someone who does. His name is Nate Hines and he runs an interesting blog. All you have to do to enter is click on the picture of the Flip below, and enter. What could be easier??

By clicking on one of my links to enter, you're also giving me another chance to win. He's actually giving away two Flips (one to a random winner and one to the person who has the most referral entries)...and I would actually flip to get one. Seriously. You help me to win the second Flip by clicking on my link, and once I receive the Flip, I will post a video of me flipping. Just for your enjoyment. (And enjoyable it will be, since I haven't done a flip in at least 20-25 years!)

Once you've entered, you'll be tempted to stick around Nate's site and check things out. Nate has some great articles on his site - I learned what ThumbVu is. If you're a website owner or blogger, you should be interested in it, too. He also gives you some tips on how to "Promote on Facebook". I like that he does this in video format.

I've been taking some classes from Andy Jenkins (The Video Boss) about why video gets more viewers, completes more sales, etc. His newest video classes focus on helping you to make your own video - and each session he does is jam-packed with information.

So there ya have it - my two PSAs for the week. You're sure to be the court jester if you don't enter to win Nate's Flip Video. What are you waiting for? Go to Nate's site and enter. Then, when you have a few uninterrupted minutes and want to absorb some fabulous information (in an entertaining way, no less!), head over to Andy's site (The Video Boss) and learn why "Video GETS MORE Money than ANYTHING". I'm usually not into stuff like that at all - but Andy makes some great points and really is entertaining. (Not to mention I think he's kinda hot, too.)

And one more quick note...have you been to Patina Soul? What a blog!! Not only is this blog gorgeous, but there is a massive giveaway going on. You have to act quick, tho - it ends tonight. I'm sorry! I just found out about it like 2 minutes ago - but it's too good not to pass on to you lovelies.

Thank you for all your well wishes about Hive Girl. She has almost morphed back into the Princess. I'm still on pins and needles - but her breathing is under much better control. The hives are obnoxious (she was diagnosed with chronic urticaria) - but not life-threatening. I'll post more about the condition in the future.

I actually have several exciting new things to tell you all about...and I will - very, very soon. Promise.

xx,

Is This the Apocalypse?

2010-02-10T06:19:00.001-07:00

Photo taken as I wrote this post

Since Friday night:

Benadryl - every four hours. Around the clock.

Hydroxyzine - a prescription antihistamine. Twice/day. On a dose higher than given to adults because it knocks people out. She has no effects.

Prednisone - a dose high enough to make her doctors worry she could suffer long term effects. Twice/day.

Albuterol - three times/day. Also, every 4 hours as needed for breathing problems.

Advair - twice daily.

Epi-pen - as needed.

We. Still. Have. Hives.

Where - on that list of medications - is xanax for me??

Although I'm not sure which, I am sure this is going to kill one of us.

xx,

Google Thinks The Queen Sucks

2010-02-08T06:32:00.002-07:00

Right off the bat, let me say I'm confused.

I looked back at my blog, and I have well over 100 comments. (I have many more than 100, but I'm too lazy to count them all.) On around 250 posts. According to Google Analytics though, I suck. And I'm awful lonely.

I've checked my stuff on GAG (Google Analytics Gauge) several times over the years. I never get any information. There is always some issue with my blog that prevents GAG from reporting. I always dutifully fix whatever issue GAG claims, only to remember to return a few months later and find another issue. This has been my relationship with GAG.

After reading Nanny Goats in Panties today, I was curious what some of the search terms are that people use to find my blog. I turned to my trusted nemesis GAG to figure it out.

Apparently, according to the figures displayed (rather largely) by GAG, my blog has enjoyed a sudden popularity, although it's a bit confusing when looking at the raw data. You see, to this point The Queen Speaks (um, the name of the blog you're currently on) has never had a visitor. Ever. My statistics have remained at zero. They haven't budged. It has been the one thing I could count on in life.

Surprise! While checking GAG this morning, I was shocked. Stunned. Amazed. The Queen Speaks (that's the blog you're on, remember?) has enjoyed a sudden surge in visitors. This little ol' blog has gone from a record low and high of zero, to SEVENTY-SEVEN! I'm not kidding...look:

Isn't that impressive? Just don't look too closely at the top half of the screen shot - it says all my stats remain at zero. I was very excited by this news. It was like learning all the voices I hear aren't coming (only) from my head. Until I looked at this page:

How can this be? I just had a surge in people finding my blog - a whole 77 of them! How can I be down 100% - when I started with nothing? Wouldn't I have to remain at nothing - or get less than 0 visitors - to fall 100%?

I'm so confused. I don't know if I should have 77 thank you notes engraved, or bring back the black veil in anticipation of my 100% drop.

On a side note: I apologize for not responding to comments and generally being rude lately. Remember how bad Hive Girl was? Of course not - I had no readers. (Does that mean I also made up the comments?) The reaction she had when I originally posted was nothing compared to the latest go 'round.

As of Friday, she went into full anaphylactic shock. She almost died. We now have an epi-pen that she cannot go anywhere without. We are going to see an allergist/immunologist this morning - I will post more about it tomorrow - but please keep your fingers crossed we figure this out. Even with the epi-pen, there aren't any guarantees. I'm pretty unflappable - just look at my children. They scare me but haven't run me off...yet. However, I am really scared about Hive Girl's condition.

xx,

Beautiful Blogger...Who Ya Talkin' About?!

2010-02-05T12:00:00.001-07:00

I am so stoked to receive an awesome award from a wonderful blogger. I can't believe she is bestowing it upon the Palace - especially considering the other people she gave it to. Nanny Goats in Panties? Oh cha...I bow to NGIP. I'm sure she's wondering in what realm we belong on the same list, too!

Veronica, best known as The Chickenista, has another blog. Yes, I said another. She has like three...News You Can't Use, Now What, and The Chickenista. Plus she home schools her kidlets. (She also drives a pick up and carries a shotgun!) Um yeah. I don't think anyone will be calling her lazy anytime soon. Geez, Veronica - way to make the rest of us look bad!

The rules of this award:

-Thank the person who nominated you for this award. Thank you, Veronica, my little Chickenista...THANK YOU!!
-Copy the award & place it on your blog. Check!
-Link to the person who nominated you for this award. Check!
-Tell us 7 interesting things about yourself. Ohhh boy. Doesn't say they have to be "real".
-Nominate 7 bloggers. Easy enough!
-Post links to the 7 blogs you nominate. Check!

Interesting Things About Me:
1. Altho it's been off the air for at least 25 years, I can still remember every single word to the "Lee Press On Nails" commercial. I swear. If enough people comment that they want to hear it, I'll post my rendition...which, by the way, is much better than the woman who did the original voice over.
2. I was Miss North Carolina Teen. It was so long ago I'm pretty sure they didn't even have newspapers back then.
3. I am the "black sheep" in my family - in the biggest way possible, in every way you can think of. Sometimes I wonder if my parents were serious when they used to say they picked me up on a fence post.
4. If I could live life exactly like I wanted, I would live on a ranch that overlooks the ocean. (Like on a cliff.) My home would overlook the ocean and the horses (and a few other small animals) would be safely pastured on the opposite side of my house! I would basically be a recluse - doing art, riding my horse, drinking iced tea, Coke with grenadine, or Mocha Frappuccino on my veranda.
5. I "talk" to more people online in one day, than I talk to in person, or on the phone, in a week.
6. I can't watch news stories, commercials, etc about the mistreatment, or abuse of children. I will do anything to not watch/ hear about those things - but if I can't escape, I immediately get teared up - and it will upset me for days.
7. I amuse myself - I find myself quite funny. I can't help it. I am a complete dork. I crack myself up at least once a day.

And now...onto the Beautiful Bloggers I'd like to pass this along to...

PJs Prose

AsTheCrackerheadCrumbles

Candles, Crafts & Whatnot

Gems by Jerri

Being the rebel that I am, I could not narrow it down to seven. I just couldn't. Every time I looked at the list, I could not decide on someone to remove. I had no problem thinking of others to add - but this is the barest list I could come up with. So...I suck. Sorry about that.

I am so honored to know so many incredibly creative people. I cherish everyone who reads my blog - please know if you didn't find your name on this list, it is not because I don't treasure you and your beauty. It's impossible not to celebrate each of you - and the unique gifts you bring to the world. I love all of you!

Thanks again, Veronica!

xx,

Caran D'Ache Neocolor II

2010-02-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

My latest ~~toys~~ supplies arrived - and I'm so excited!

I absolutely love artsupply.com. As the name suggests, they are the premiere online place to purchase art supplies. Located in Chicago, IL, they are a brick-and-mortar store, and accept phone orders as well. I have been a huge fan of artsupply.com for awhile now - and for some very specific reasons:

They are the one company I have referred friends and other artists to, over and over. They've never let me down - and I know they will take good care of anyone I send their way.

Fast shipping.
Free shipping on loads of products. Orders not shipping free do not have over-inflated shipping fees. Finally - someone gets it!

Amazing prices. Almost everything I've bought from them has saved me money. For example, I recently purchased a silk screening kit at artsupply.com for around $35. After hours of searching, their cheapest competitor wanted $47 - and that was a sale price! I'm terrible at math, but isn't that around a 26% savings?

Fantastic communication.

Great selection. If you want something and they don't have it, they'll go to the ends of the earth to get it. That's just how their customer service is.

About their customer service...it is phenomenal. Phe. Nom. En. AL. You will not hear me say this often, but I have never had less than a 5-star interaction with anyone representing that company. Five-stars doesn't begin to adequately describe their awesomeness.

Art Supply Professional Circle. This program says it all.

I have been exceptionally blessed to be associated with such incredible people and such a fine organization. It is rare for me to have such loyalty to a company - but that's just how good artsupply.com is. I personally guarantee you simply will not find a better art supply store, nicer people, or better prices...anywhere. That's a pretty huge guarantee - but I say it knowing it's true.

Which brings me back to my recent order. I got the Caran D'Ache Neocolor IIs - and I am so excited to play with them! There was an article by Susie Monday in the Dec '09/Jan '10 issue of Quilting Arts. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite artists - her blog is full of great information and inspiration. The article in QA, Rainbow Printing with Water-soluble Pigments, was just like her work and her blog - informative, inspirational, interesting. About halfway through the article I knew I had to order some Golden's Silkscreen Medium and Neocolor IIs. I haven't had a chance to play with them yet, but stay tuned. I'll post my results when I've got something to show.

I just love getting new supplies...it's like being a little kid again!

xx,

Silver Clay

2010-02-03T07:37:00.000-07:00

I've been in love with silver clay since I first learned it existed. The price was a major factor for me - it's daunting to relax and learn when you know the material you're working with costs big bucks.

It's a funny thing, silver clay is. I have a lot to learn - and so many ideas. It doesn't go very far - you don't get a whole lot for the money. That said, the pieces turn out beautifully - even if you're clueless, like I was. I should mention, before I began, I looked over several books, read tons and tons of websites, and spoke to a handful of artists experienced in silver clay. From my research and discussions, one thing was clear: just jump in.

My very first attempt was a couple of charms, where I really got a feel for the clay and the torch. (Sorry! Didn't mean to burn you or get my little needle pick stuck on you!) I made an art doll and crown from molds I'd made for polymer clay. I don't know how my little crown prong broke - but it did. I also forgot to add holes to these so they could be used as charms. - so a new use will have to be found. Maybe broaches?

Each of those pieces is a nice, substantial weight. I was instantly impressed and smitten. And wielding the torch totally rocked!

The last two pieces are an egg and a nest. I came up with a funky idea...to make a necklace from these pieces. Two sides of the nest - which looks kind of like a bucket - will attach to a chain, while the little egg will gently balance in the middle of the nest, the top of the egg poking above the top of the nest. We'll see if it turns out as cool in reality as it is in my mind.

Still need lots of practice...but this could definitely be addictive. So many awesome possibilities!

Oh - have you checked out the new forums at Cloth Paper Scissors? Quilting Arts released their revamped site not too long ago - and now CPS has done the same. Stop by and check it out - it's a great place to meet other artists, make new friends, learn new techniques, and post some work.

xx,

Meet Mother Wackadoo

2010-01-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

I've been on a creative streak. I started Mother Wackadoo a few weeks ago, then put her in my clay box and (accidentally) forgot about her. How rude!

After discovering her yesterday, I finished her up. It's hard to see, but pink Angelina fills the background in the top triangular hole. A triangular purple and gold cab is suspended in the lower hole. Mother Wackadoo has been textured all over her body with doodles. Her head is large because she always has a lot on her mind. The blue portion of her head is textured with large swirls, the orange part is striped, and each of her shoes have a small flower doodle, as well as tiny vintage gemstone cabochons. Another tiny vintage gemstone cabochon adorns her ring finger. We're unsure whether her socks are mismatched due to the haste in which she grabbed them (have to keep up with those kids!)...or whether the kids have her so worn out, she just doesn't care. She's also a little batty - but what mother isn't??

The 18g sterling silver wire is squiggled, demonstrating her frazzled nerves. Even though Mother Wackadoo is stressed, her face is remarkably calm. Has she withdrawn into her own world, resigned herself - and made peace with - living in constant chaos, or is this a look of catatonia?

Mother Wackadoo is made up of incongruous, disproportionate parts - but she's perfectly balanced. She is symmetrical and different at the same time; completely adaptable. Her outstretched arms indicate the handle she has on the balancing act of motherhood. At the same time, her openness - arms held out - illustrate her readiness - and her desire - to hold and comfort her children.

Her semi-gloss sheen is courtesy of Diamond Flecto Varathan Varnish. This shows her outer strength and protection. I think it's also Mother Wackadoo's attempt at presenting her best self to the world - she may be worn out, run down, stressed, and in need of a vacation - but, like mothers everywhere, she keeps all of that hidden under her shiny appearance.

She will soon be available for purchase - along with the rest of my art - on my new website. It isn't quite ready yet - but watch for information on this exciting new venture!

Have a fantastically creative week!

xx,

Ol' Saggy Britches

2010-01-26T14:01:00.001-07:00

Yes, he actually thinks he looks good.

Then again, this is the same boy who wears droopy drawers.

What else can I say??

xx,

Hive Girl, Girl Scout Cookies & Good People

2010-01-25T13:56:00.001-07:00

I've been MIA for several days - which is unfortunate since I have news about Photobucket to share with you. That will have to wait for now, since I'm still caring for Hive Girl, formerly known as the Princess.

Her hives were so bad they were in her esophagus - so on top of being extremely itchy, she was throwing up like crazy. Poor, pitiful thing! Although she's seen some great doctors about this, I think we're going to go in a different direction. The dermatologist thinks the outbreak is due to an allergy. She was tested for allergies when she was little, after she choked on a peanut. The peanut got lodged in her main bronchus, which was removed endoscopically at the hospital. Her PCP thought the incident may cause a nut allergy, so we had her tested. Good thing the tests were negative - can you imagine her being surrounded by all these "nuts" (brothers, uncle, etc) if she were allergic?!?

I'm going to make an appointment with an allergist. Maybe they can figure out what's causing this. It's getting scary - the girl who has a sensitive immune system and serious asthma - is now having trouble breathing when she has these "attacks". Her upper lip and fingertips turned cyanotic (blue from lack of oxygen) for several long minutes during this attack.

On an interesting and happy note, one of her friends from school adopted a little Haitian girl. They've been in the adoption process for awhile - and everything was sped up due to the catastrophic earthquake.

It's also Girl Scout Cookie Time. Since Hive Girl has been so sick, she hasn't been able to sell cookies like she wanted to. If you live in an area where you can't get cookies - and want some - please let me know. I will pay shipping on all cookies, so you just pay the box price of $3.25. Please email me for information.

Enjoy your week!!

xx,

United Breaks Guitars

2010-01-19T00:00:00.002-07:00

All images in this post belong to Dave Carroll & were taken from Dave's website

Apparently I'm not the only one tired of being screwed by companies or organizations, and not being able to do anything about it.

I was watching The View (see below) last Thursday - a rare occurrence for me. I wasn't really paying attention because I was doing other things - but then I heard them talking to this guy about a broken guitar, which caught my attention. (Wix, the middle son, is learning to play the guitar.) It turns out the guy was Dave Carroll, of sons of Maxwell. Apparently I've been under my rock again, because I seem to have been the only person who hasn't heard of Dave or his United Airlines experience. To sum up the situation, Sons of Maxwell were on their way to Nebraska for a gig. While at Chicago O'Hare Airport, another passenger said the flight attendants were throwing guitars. Knowing his guitar had been checked, he immediately got a sick feeling in his stomach - and sure enough, his guitar was broken. He tried to settle with United, but was unsuccessful. CBS spoke with Dave, and the interview can be heard here.

You can also read the story in Dave Carroll's own words, by visiting his website.

Dave gave United a deadline in which to settle the issue. Dave had warned United he was going to write 3 songs - and produce 3 videos - about his experience if they did not fix the issue within a six month time frame. However, United ignored the problem - and did nothing to resolve Dave's complaints. True to his word, write a song he did...in fact, he's written two of them to date, with a third in the works. After the popularity of Dave's song became apparent, United offered compensation - but Dave said it was too late. In a feeble attempt to save their image (and based on Dave's request), United contributed funds to some music foundations - but the damage had been done. Dave made his point very succinctly - and humorously. The response to his video, which cost him $150 to make, has been phenomenal. Taylor Guitars, the makers of the guitar broken by United, even got involved.

You can hear more about the story on YouTube, but since his first song is so amazing, I'm posting a link to it here. If you aren't familiar with the song, you've got to check it out. You can do that below. Trust me - you won't be sorry you did. You'll wish you had come up with the idea - and want Dave on your side the next time you get screwed by a large organization, like the travel industry.

Way to go, Dave - thanks for standing up for what's right. I can't think of a better way to get your point across!

xx,

Promos In A Snap Review

2010-01-18T00:00:00.002-07:00

This post is a long time coming. Mostly because I'm a dork. Ok, totally because I'm a dork.

January 29, 2009 - yes, almost exactly one year ago - I won a blog contest for 50 really cute stickers. The stickers could be two different designs - and would be professionally printed by Promos In A Snap. I had never heard of Promos In A Snap prior to this contest, but was instantly smitten with their adorable products. I worked with Maree (the owner of the now defunct blog) to design the stickers, then went on about my life.

custom printed button choices

While digging through my spam folder in November, I came across the emails Maree and I had shared - and it dawned on me that we never completed the giveaway. I wrote to Maree, who was very sweet, and then to Crystal, the owner of Promos In A Snap. Even though it had been a really long time, Crystal agreed to honor the giveaway and ship the stickers. I was totally shocked - she was not under any obligation to fulfill the prize and to be honest, I don't know that I was expecting her to when I contacted her.

I received the stickers soon after in the mail - and I have to say, I'm really, really happy with them. They are darling! Professionally printed, the graphics are awesome. They look like they were printed by a large company - and rival anything a "professional printing" company could do. Kinko's has nothing on Promos In A Snap!

The adhesive is also nice. Not too sticky, but sticky enough. I'm not worried they will fall off any type of paper - they adhere securely but aren't obnoxiously sticky. I can't stand the adhesives that grab anything and everything, without giving you a chance to place the item where you want it. There's no worry of that happening with these - but you will be confident in the adhesive. It may also help that the stickers arrive on a slick background, cut into individual squares. The stickers are also a nice size, at about 2" in diameter.

custom 3"x3" full color product tags

Crystal has so many other awesome products to advertise your business - or just make your life easier. From custom printed notepads to custom address stickers, and double sided business cards to buttons, Promos In A Snap has you covered. The prices are extremely competitive - you can order 100 full-color product labels, at a whopping 3"x3" size for a mere $20...and 2 custom 3"x3" notepads - with 50 sheets each - are $10.

Promos In A Snap has earned The Queen's Seal of Approval - for fantastic products, fair pricing, A+ customer service, and honoring an almost year-old giveaway. Whether you need to begin building a brand for your company, have to replace business cards, want to launch an advertising campaign, make your business stand out from the others with clever advertising, or just need some address stickers or notepads for around the house, give Promos In A Snap a try. You will find them more than able to meet your needs and provide you with a succesful image you can be proud of.

xx,

Photobucket Sucks!

2010-01-15T00:00:00.001-07:00

Oops! You meanI accidentally linked the picture to their account? My bad!

I've been using Photobucket forever. I've always thought it's a great place to store images online - free. I've never felt the need to upgrade my account to a "Pro" account since I don't have tons of images, and I don't really care about the ads they show on each "Free" member's page. I mostly use their services to store some blog pictures - and used to use my account a lot more when I was selling on eBay. I know some things have changed on the site - and it's my own fault for not paying close attention - but since I don't use my account that much, I didn't realize what changes had been put into effect.

I woke up at 2:15 this morning and got online. With the oldest supposedly going to school during the day, he needs the computer - so I get on when I can. Which usually means middle of the night or early in the morning. (He's way younger than I am and I know there is no possible way I can outlast him at night.) When I checked my email, I was surprised to find an email from Photobucket, announcing I had a "follower". Not sure what that meant, I went to the site and checked it out.

Now I'm annoyed, irritated and pissed. When I checked out my "followers" account, I noticed she had a few of my pictures in her albums. Photos I took. Of things I had made. These weren't just pictures of a sunset I had taken - or royalty free images I found online and changed to suit my purposes. They weren't even photos or clip art I had paid to use. These were pictures taken by MY camera, of things MY hands created. It isn't like she has a link from my album to hers, attributing the original author/creator of the photos or the subjects within the photos. She didn't even purchase the items I had in the pictures, which I would have understood.

No. She has taken my pictures and placed them in her own albums - as if the photos "belong" to her. I assume many (all?) of her photos came from someone else - and she's passing them off as hers. The part where I totally lost my mind? Did you know you can have these photos - regardless of where they come from, or who "owns" them - put on all sorts of merchandise? I could go to your Photobucket album, find a picture YOU took, and slap it on a coffee mug, t-shirt, or playing cards?? WTH?

I realize people can download pictures from anywhere on the Internet, save them to their computer, and do whatever they want with them. Especially if photos aren't watermarked. I just didn't realize a photo hosting service would "help" to make this so easy. I haven't noticed the same thing on Flickr, but maybe it's there and I've just overlooked it. This seems totally wrong to me.

Am I missing something?

xx,

Glorious Giveaways Galore!

2010-01-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Does anyone remember Woot Loot? At the beginning of last year, I had introduced a monthly giveaway I called Woot Loot - and I gave away a book from my stash, some art, a piece of jewelry I'd made, etc. I named it Woot Loot because the "loot" was supposed to make you say "WOOT!". Has anyone been around long enough to remember me doing that? Or were the winners mostly just here for the prizes, and not interested in listening to me ramble?

One of the reasons I quit Woot Loot was the increase in postage. Another reason was, although I enjoyed the increase in readership, it's frustrating to give things away to people who are just visiting your blog to win. Does that make any sense? I started Woot Loot as a way to bring other artists, crafters, and people interested in arts and crafts, to my blog. Not just contest seekers. I was hoping to make a few new friends, find some interesting new blogs, and have fun in the process. I also gave it up because frankly, I couldn't afford to do it, and it became difficult to do it monthly, when I didn't know what my health was going to be doing.

Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed Woot Loot. It was really fun to look around and figure out what I would offer as a prize. I even had a great time giving away some of my art and jewelry on other blogs, to celebrate their blogiversary or blog tour or...whatever. It was so fun knowing I was contributing something to someone else's blog, tour, contest, etc. I quit because the people I sent things to were friends while the contest was going on - but I'm pretty sure they couldn't tell you my name now. Not that I expect to be best friends with everyone I send prizes to...but it would be nice not to feel "used". Make sense?

Good.

I'm thinking about bringing Woot Loot back. With a twist. Rather than just giving stuff away, people will have to work for it - by entertaining me/us, convincing me/us why they should win, or solving a rhyme/riddle/joke.

What do you think? Is anyone interested in bringing back Woot Loot? Would any of you participate if you had to work for the prize? Or, if I bring it back, should I just keep the rules the same as everyone else's...leave a comment, follow me, Tweet about it, etc. I'd love to know what you all think...because I'd really like to reward you for reading my blabbing.

Let me know. I'll probably wind up doing the opposite of what you suggest, but you never know. I'm still thinking I can follow the resolutions I didn't make.

Let's Take a Trip

2010-01-13T00:00:00.004-07:00

Since it's right after the holidays, and the economy in the toilet, I thought I'd gift you with a free vacation. This isn't some ridiculous contest, where you have to stand on your head while you drink a glass of water. You don't have to do anything - but enjoy. Please make sure your items are stored safely in the overhead compartment, your seat belts is securely fastened, trays are in the upright position...and make note of the emergency exits. Who would've thought I could afford to send every single one of my readers on a free vacay??

Ok, so it isn't a traditional vacation...but better. You don't have to pack any bags, do tons of laundry upon your return, or spend hours getting ready for a passport photo that you know won't turn out well. There won't be any worrying about what the person sitting next to you has in their underwear. (Unless you're into that.) No strip searches. (Again, unless you're into that.) You won't even have to deal with travel delays, screaming children (unless they're yours), or bad food. (Once more, unless you're into that.)

Nope...it's all good. I haven't scheduled you for any lame activities, you don't have to worry about the water, and there's no how-will-I-fit-into-a-swimming-suit stress. I can see you don't believe me...but you'd be wrong! I've spent some time on a couple of really great new blogs lately. So enjoy your vacation around the web - I hope you enjoy the sites as much as I did. You can thank me later.

Scrap Journal of Angela H: This is a great blog by a talented scrapper, for scrappers. Angela happens to have a fantastic giveaway going on right now - and you'll want to run over and enter. She's giving away a Paper Gator -an awesome tool from Around the Block. Trust me, you need one! Entering is easy - answer the question "What is your definition of a Scrapbook Diva?" - but do it before Friday (01.15), or your chance to win will be shredded.

Redhead Ranting: If you aren't familiar with this blog, your life is not complete! I've been an avid reader of Jen's blog for a long time now, so it isn't new...but it's always worth a read. A recent post, Inappropriate Behavior, cracked me up -. I can so empathize! I dare you to read the entire post - especially the second option of the Fix It Plan - without cracking a smile.

KV Creative Designs: What can I say about Kathryn's delicious blog? She challenges me to be a better artist, with all the wonderful things she comes across online. She's also having a fantastic giveaway to celebrate her second blogiversary. She's giving away some scrumdiddlyumptious mixed media art she made - and a little gift bag to go with it. Can you stand it?? Definitely a don't-miss destination!

I'm Just a Girl: This blog is getting ultra exciting! Margie is right at the entry of a fascinating journey - she has developed a line of the most delish papers, The Girls' Paperie. Even Tim Holtz is bragging about this paper fashionista - which is how I found her. Margie's line was picked up by Advantus and it's totally fun watching her undertake this adventure - and live vicariously through her! She's also giving away some things from The Girls' Paperie...before it debuts at CHA 2010!

SuzeBlogz: What can I say about Suze that hasn't already been said? For some scrumptious eye candy, you have to, have to, have to check this out - she even gives you a tutorial for it! Suze has been busy getting ready for Art Opera, where she'll be teaching. I'm totally bummed I can't get to NJ to attend - but seeing a sample she created at least gave me the chance to dream. So much talent packed in such a spunky package...I love Suze. She couldn't be any nicer, more accessible, or more fun!

Creative Characters: Natalie's site is fantastic. Superbly fantastic. Her dolls...her faces...her art! I could get lost in this woman's talent - and she seems to have so much talent that it oozes out of her pores. She is absolutely amazing - a definite must if you're creative or interested in amazing art. She also has not one, but TWO etsy shops...Creative CharacterS and ClotheSpinZ. Splendiferous!

Illustration Friday: Just a really neat place to check out. Every week there is a new creative exercise to challenge your creativity. There's no pressure, no strings, no nothing...but a great way to stretch your creative bones. Are you up for the challenge??

After all that creativity and fun, you're probably worn out. Wasn't it worth it?!

xx,

FA/MM & the Cutest Bear Giveaway

2010-01-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting much lately - I've been battling life to get it started on the right foot for 2010. Just like the 'beasts - or maybe because of them?- it's not cooperating.

I joined a challenge with Susan Sorrell (Creative Chick Studios) - to get out of the comfort zone, use the books/magazines I have around my studio, and play with at least one new art technique each month. If you're looking for some motivation, check out the group (by clicking on the group icon above) - which is hosted at the Fiber Arts/Mixed Media Ning, a very creative and fun place to belong.

There is a very cool giveaway going on over at Bears in the Bush. In celebration of her first blogiversary, Linda Benson is giving away one of her darling bears. To fully experience her talent and creativity, you must check out her blog. You'll be instantly hooked on her sweet bears - just look at the one she created, pictured above.

xx,

Looking for a Life - Richard Heene Should Do Same

2010-01-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

This is what the Princess and I did to entertain ourselves last night. I need to get out more. Or get a life.

I think this is how I began...before kids.

Don't judge me.

After the first.

After the second.

A permanent look - after the third was born.

On a regular day.

You're judging again.

By 6 o'clock - any evening of the week.

And speaking of the third...

I suggested the Princess keep this picture so she knows how to wear her hair for prom.

She claims styles may change in the six years that will pass before she becomes a junior.

How could that be possible?

The hair, when combined with her natural dance style - looking like an Egyptian here -

couldn't possibly go out of style.

Hey - the Bangles made it happen.

Oh - and Richard Heene? Shut the hell up. Please.

xx,

Lunaria Annua

2010-01-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

Aren't those beautiful? They are the dried leaves of Lunaria annua, otherwise known as the money plant, honesty plant, silver dollar plant, moonwort...and several other names.

It has beautiful purple flowers, which bloom in the spring. It's a biennial and even has some edible leaves. Once dried, the leaves are used in floral arrangements - they are one of the few dried pieces that won't fade over time or in sunlight.

You can see the pods in the leaves

I remember seeing a lot of these when I was a kid - but I haven't seen them for a long time. The leaves, once the outer covering is rubbed off, resemble silver dollars - which is why some refer to this plant as the "money plant". Not all leaves are silver - some look more like the rice paper used in Japanese shades, while others have brown striations that remind me of potato slices.

Honesty (Money Plant) by Sande LaFaut

I've been searching everywhere for these leaves. My search would have been a total waste of time, had I not had the extreme pleasure of finding a beautiful new blog full of fun fiber art, Simple Pleasures, Holy Treasures, by Sande LaFaut. There is one post in particular, Honesty (Money Plant), that is just gorgeous (above). While looking at Sande's beautiful art quilt, be sure to take a further look around her site. She's a very talented woman with some really stunning eye candy!

Although I hate to cook, I've been working on a new recipe for paper bowls. I've been looking everywhere for a few of these leaves, but have been completely unsuccessful at finding them. I have located one place that sells a bundle of 50 branches - but that is way too many for my purposes...and besides, they're kind of expensive. I don't need 50 branches of leaves - and don't want to pay $35.

Knowing the resourcefulness and just plain awesomity* of my readers, I decided to put out the call to you guys. Have you seen these? Do you know where I can purchase a few leaves? If my recipe actually works, I'll want to get more...but I only want to play with a few to start.

If you know where I can obtain 10-20 silver dollar leaves, please let me know by leaving a comment - or you can email me. I'm not quite sure where else to look...and I'm just not patient enough to plant them this spring - then wait two years before I can get my hands on some.

* Yes, "awesomity" is a word I made up...but don't you think it fits?

xx,

The End of 2009 & Still at the BACK of the Line - but I Got a Biggun'

2009-12-31T17:38:00.001-07:00

"Queen Katherine, what's wrong with you? No blog posts lately, no funny stories, not even any art. What is up with you??"

Don't think I haven't heard the fevered clamoring from you guys. The whispers, sighs, and questions. The pitch is getting quite loud - and being Queen, I couldn't do that to you, my dear, wonderful, lovely, beautiful readers. (Enough sucking up?) I had to pop in, this last day of 2009, and say...something.

Thank goodness 2009 is ending!

HERE'S TO 2010 BEING MUCH, MUCH BETTER THAN '09 WAS!

I'm big enough to admit that I have six posts half written and saved. Not published. To finish them would require me to complete the research for them...which seems like way too much work. (By research I mean putting in the links, finding pictures, blah blah blah.) So I'm starting over, saving those for another day. Maybe.

Let's examine why a spinal headache is so painful. Get out your No 2 pencils, sit up straight, and pay attention. There will not be a test on this at the end. I'm just too lazy at this point. Come on...I'm already schooling you in something you probably aren't the least bit interested in...so cut me a little slack. Lest I remind you I'm the Queen again.

According to THE QUEEN, and what I feel like writing:

A SPINAL HEADACHE happens when one gets a very small leak in the "sheath", or tough membrane, covering the spinal column. Since I'm now realizing what a pain this would be to explain, without getting into a whole anatomy class, this is going to be the short definition. If I do less than a fantabulous job, click the links at the end and get more information. At least I understand what I'm saying.

Any time a needle is inserted into your spine - whether it's to pull out cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), like a spinal tap, or to put medication in the spine, like an epidural - one can end up with a spinal headache. (Spinal headaches can also happen spontaneously, but it's very rare.) The needle has to puncture the protective "sheath" in order to get to the space where the CSF flows, which is the space where medication is put for something like an epidural. If the needle "hole" doesn't immediately close, CSF can leak through this "sheath". I always think of it like bouyancy - and may be totally wrong, but that's how I think of it. Your brain and spinal cord must be bathed in CSF all the time - they float in it. If the CSF is leaking, there isn't enough to keep the correct "parts" bouyant - your brain literally begins to sink, which is why you have such a severe, please-just-kill-me-now-because-I'm-in-hell, type of headache. It's like when you poke a balloon with a needle - the hole is so small that it's almost impossible to see, but the fluid inside the balloon can still leak out.

Now that I've totally confused you, forget it. Just read what happens here. Or here. Or even here. As an aside, very informative videos on all sorts of back pain, conditions, and treatments, can be found here, put out by Spine Health. Some fifty percent of the adult population will have back problems during their lives, and I highly recommend checking out the videos if you're struggling with any of these issues. Anyway...

The only way to feel better is to lay flat. Standing, sitting, or having your head upright at all, is painful beyond words - and if you cough or sneeze, God help you. You honestly think your head will shoot off - and wish it would. But lay down, and relief comes quickly (depending on how long you were upright before laying down).Usually, the hole(s) close without any intervention, and the headache goes away. But sometimes - unless you're me, in which case it happens all the time - they don't close on their own...and you win another fun medical procedure, called a blood patch - they draw a huge bolus of blood out of your arm, then inject it into your spine. The idea is that the blood cells will find the hole(s) causing the leak, and patch them. Having a blood patch is like instant relief...as soon as it's done, your headache resolves, and you return to a human state again. It's a strange thing, going from a headache that honestly makes you wish you were dead, to no headache at all - but if you're the one with the headache, you don't question it.

So that's where your Queen has been, in spinal headache hell. Not a place I recommend visiting. Ever. I wouldn't even say it's a place for the in-laws.

I was supposed to be having a rhizotomy, or radiofrequency neurotomy, today. The follow up to last week's medial branch block - which is what I ended up having, instead of facet injections. Why stop at injecting the facet joints, with itty-bitty needles - when you can go for the whole branch of nerves, with a much larger needle? The medial branch block went alright, unless you consider that I spent the rest of the week flat on my back, in spinal headache hell. Except for the brief periods of sickness I experienced because of some great new medication for something else.

Mine's Bigger Than Yours!

And

OH MY GOODNESS - IS A BLOG POST JUST A "POST" IF YOU HAVE TO HAVE SUB-HEADINGS??

If you've made it this far, you're at the climactic point of the novel that has become this post. You're on the edge of your seat wondering why on earth I'm not having the rhizotomy right now. So why am I writing you - and not acting as the human pin cusion/electrical conduit? It's all due to my uvula.

No! We don't want to know about your gynecological issues, Queen! Ha - no matter how much it sounds like a dirty word, the uvula is the "punching bag" thingy that hangs down at the back of your mouth, in your throat. Mine is all swollen up for some reason - and you can't have any sort of back procedure when you're hosting an infection. I've had a swollen uvula before - several times. I don't know what causes it - nor do I know anyone else this happens to. I just know the doc won't touch me like this. Is this a minor sidetrack...or a major roadblock?

Who knows. I just know that as the worst year of my life, I'm glad 2009 is drawing to a close...and I won't be sorry to see it go. I hope all of you have a fantastic New Years - but more than that. I hope 2010 is full of love, prosperity, success, great friends, and good health. I mean that. You all have touched my life in ways you'll never know...and I hope your goodness and kindness is returned to you - ten-fold.

xx,

FedEx Out of Office Blog

2009-12-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of FedEx? They are a small company that only operates in little parts of the world - so it's understandable if you haven't ever heard of them...or used them.

Oh come on...I live under a rock and I've used FedEx! Although I've heard of them - and even used their shipping services - I had never considered checking out their website. Well, at least for more than finding out about shipping costs and times. I had no idea what a boatload of information I was missing!

You see, FedEx Office has this most awesome blog, Out of Office. The blog covers all sorts of topics and ideas you're probably interested in, and if you aren't, you should be. Why? Well, like all good things, it has tips and tricks that will make your life easier. More interesting. More creative. And trust me - you will be even more fabulous when you're life is easier, and you're more interesting and creative. Who wouldn't be?

Out of Office focuses on all sorts of grand ideas - and is your new source of inspiration for projects, parties and presents. I'm not just referring to those because it's the holiday time of year...nope. The good folks at FedEx Office have you covered - year round. Woot!

I've already visited the blog several times - and not only because I needed some insider info in order to fill you in. No way - I wouldn't send you to a place I'm not visiting myself. I've moseyed over there - admittedly, at a rather frantic pace - to get some last minute gift ideas and yes, to see about shipping tips and times. Yes, my name is Katherine and I am the Queen of Procrastination.

The layout of the blog is clean and provides super-simple navigation. The sidebar provides easy ways to find the topics you're looking for, links you may find helpful, introductions to the six bloggers running the gig, and a convenient way to check out their templates and tools (this part is coming soon). See what I mean? It's jam-packed with great stuff you need.

If you still aren't convinced, and are thinking you don't do a whole lot of shipping - so what could they possibly offer you, let's see. They have topics like Home Helper, Parent Projects (love their article about repurposing the artwork of kids!), and Business Builder. That's just a small smattering of the topics these talented bloggers discuss.

Keep in mind this is a new blog, so it doesn't have the longest history - and a few parts of it still need some tweaking. From someone who has had a blog for years - and has successfully put off the necessary tweaking - I know it will come. They're off to a fantastic start - and any support you can lend to them, in terms of ideas or comments, will only make the blog better for everyone. Don't let the newness stop you from visiting - rather, I hope it serves as a rallying cry for the readers of my blog to get involved. At least drop by and check it out. You'll be surprised at how great it is - and how many fantastic ideas there are.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of FedEx Office. In addition, Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

It's Confirmed - 2:30 is Too Early to Wake Up!

2009-12-21T03:35:00.000-07:00

It's 2:37 am. I think. I can't see the clock real well with all the sleep still lingering in my eyes. It better be 2:37 - or I'm in big trouble.

My aunt should be here in about an hour-and-a-half to pick me up. Am I going to some tropical destination for Christmas - and need a ride to the airport? Cha, right. Is she coming to get me so we can do some early morning Christmas shopping? I don't think so - I'm pretty sure you need money for that. So where am I off to so early in the morning? What fun and exciting adventure could I possibly be embarking on?

Oh, come on. You know I don't do anything fun or exciting! I'm actually off to have my 33rd round of facet injections. I'm not sure spine injections qualify for fun. Or exciting.

I'm so far behind on life. There is a literal ton of laundry to do. The trash needs to be taken out. All kinds of kid junk needs to be picked up. The plan was to spend Winter Break - the two weeks the kids are out of school for Christmas and New Year's - catching up. Not sure how much catching up I'll get done now.

I know what to expect, since I've had this done so many times. In fact, I'm pretty sure I could do the injections. Just crummy timing. I don't mind that it's right before Christmas - I don't have any plans, anyway. However, not having plans - and doing this - are two totally different things.

Just in case I don't get back here to wish you a very, very Merry Christmas, I wanted to send you my loving wishes, and explain why. Hopefully I'll be back to running my mouth tomorrow or the next day - it depends on whether the injections work this time...or just serve to highly irritate the problem. I'm kinda hoping for a Christmas miracle - and have these relieve some pain.

I'll let you know. In case I some how miss you, please have a happy and safe holiday,

xx,