Merry Christmas 2013

Wishing all of my family, my friends, fellow artists and everyone a warm hearted Christmas!


My mantle minus stockings that have gone MIA this year. I gave our tree away couple years ago to a day care that needed one so the stockings are kind of my tree. I made them one year when all we could afford were handmade presents for each other. Best Christmas ever and we have hung them every year. Must be a reason I can't find them this year. But the spirit and joy of Christmas is still here. Love to you all!

Trunk Show on Saturday

Heading to the Jeanine Taylor Folk Art Gallery to set up for the Holiday Trunk Show I will be doing tomorrow.


The Gallery is on First street in Sanford Phone is (407)323-2774 if you need directions. Or check out their website, www.jtfolkart.com.

I will be there from 10am-4pm. If you are in the area, stop by and see me!

Happy Thanksgiving and Chanakah 2013

I am sure most people would look at me and see a stern person, but I am so thankful that I get to let that giggling child inside of me out in my bear making and creating other art pieces. That child got closed off early in life. But I am joyful and thankful for all those around me that allow me to be by letting that child in me feel welcome.



This time of year it's so great because we all become children again as we come together and remember old stories, old friends and family we love and miss. We are all angling for the biggest piece of dessert, the best seat at the table or in front of the tv. Kids looking up to the ones we love for the reassurance that we matter and all is ok.

I am thankful for you, for those who are here and those who aren't , for those who would love to be here and can't. Be blessed, feel joy and laughter in your heart and let it out, let it spread.

Jeanine Taylor Trunk Show

Allison Stilwell and Midge Baudouin were the featured artists at the gallery's trunk show today.


This is Midge working away and talking to her audience.


One of The collaborative pieces by Midge and Allison.


I got a art doll pin and photo with Allison who is also a very sharing artist, willing to tell you how she went about making her pieces if art.


More of Allison's beautiful art. It's always a great experience when the art matches the artist. Both were fun, inviting and interesting. Great show.


This is darker photo than I wanted, but wanted to let you see some of the gallery.

Upcoming Holiday Trunk Shows at Jeanine Taylor Folk Art Gallery:
Darlene Allen 11/30 10am-4pm
Melissa Menzer 12/7 10am-4pm

Info. jtfolkart.com

Check it out online or come to the show! And to my collectors in the area, there's new pieces to see.

And if you missed Allison and Midge, you can see what pieces they have in the gallery available for sale.

Renningers extravaganza November2013

Went to Renningers in Mt. Dora yesterday and had such fun. So many people were there. Shopping, eating having fun with friends. Me, I was on a mission. What could I find to help me create my bears and other animals? First stop, the button lady!


And look at the teddy bear button I found, I have one but this one is in great shape. Yes it is original.


Mini buttons for clothing on small bears. The larger ones are metal and jewel.


Feathers from 1920's Paris. Great for hats.


The same dealer with the feathers had these old small bears,


And these old dogs, the one on the right is German.


And after all that walking this old sitz bath tub could have been mine for just $1300. What do you mean it's not for soaking your feet?! Hehe!

They will be there today and tomorrow. If you are close go find your own treasures.

Hunt Valley Review 2013

There was a great turnout for the show. Tables dressed for the holidays and many artists were in costume.


I was dressed as Scrooge. Penny French dressed as Marley won collector choice for best costume and best table decorations.


Snowman by Art Rogers


Candy Cannavino in costume at her table.


Bears by Ingrid Schmid.



My table at the show. Well part if it hehe!

Next years show will be November 9, 2014 next year! Make your plans to attend.

Veterans Day 2013

No pretty picture to post. Some people find who they are when they enter the service and find who they don't want to be. Families are made stronger and some are torn apart under the weight of their service.
Yet when they are called they leave all they hold dear and put life, limbs, mind on the line in the belief that they are protecting that this is good and right and fair and worth protecting. They do their job to the best of their abilities.

So when do we do ours? If we really want to thank them, saluting them, clapping and parades are not enough. Give them a proper pay for their service, give them the mental and physical health care they need. Don't lock their families out of their benefits on a loophole just because you can. They did the right thing, they served no matter what it cost them, can't we do the right thing no matter what it costs us? Let's really thank a veteran this year!

To my husband, and all the men and women who have served I humbly and gratefully say thank you for your service.


From the bears and me:0)