Kaniki's Prims & Whims

2009-11-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

Beginning To Look A Lot Like....

Hmmmm.... Like Fall is just passing us by.... So- guess it's time to get moving on my Winter & Christmas Goodies!! Oh My!! I really really should have started that awhile ago- but you all know how it goes.... Do some of this- some of that- go here- and there- and before you know it- months pass... Well- that and I've been sooo busy getting ready to launch my new site- which by the way is open for business!! YAY!!! Finally!!

Also found a little time to play tonight- and did a winter blog overhaul.. Had a blast!! Have to have some fun - down time- you know? Doing things that take little effort- things that are fun- and don't wrack your brain doing them!! Fun Stuff!! :)

Sooo, I'm catching up- doing some fun stuff- gearing up for the season and holidays ahead, and trying to keep my sanity:) he he... Yeah- I know- what is that??? I mean- come on- It's already November 2nd... Unbelievable..

Well- I have got to get back to some busy business- before I fall over for the night- so will pop back in again soon!!!!

Stay Warm!!
Niki

2009-10-27T10:46:00.001-07:00

A Sneak Peak At My New Marketplace...

Hi everyone!! Haven't popped in for a chat as I've been swamped- getting ready for the grande' opening launch of my new marketplace, www.JustForKeeps.net It's been exciting!! I've had a few new girls join- and I have been adding artists and products like a mad woman!! We're almost there!! Should be ready for the newsletter launch and have the new blog set up, hopefully- fingers and toes crossed- by All Hallows Eve....

I've got some spell checking- link checking- and more goodies to add for everyone yet to do- but it is coming along!! I think I am actually even on schedule!! A little sleep deprived- but hey!! Mucha Worthy!!

Thought I'd post a quick hello- and give ya all a sneak peak... If anyone, as an artist wishes to join- take a look at out "About" page, or email me with any questions!! We'd love to have ya's!! You can list in our directory and get a complete artists page for the year, and even sell on consignment.. Lots of promotion will be put into our new home on the web- so be sure to keep tabs on us!! We love visitors!!

Well- back to work for me!! Oh My!! Its already Tuesday- and soooo much to do!!

Many Blessings!!
Niki

2009-10-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

Ohhhh- Drooling On This One!!
A Fabric Bundle Giveaway!!! Ooooooh....

I just went blog hopping- as I'm known to do throughout the week- to see what all of these just amazing bloggers are up to!! AND- I landed on Gollywobbles ( hello my friend ) and she told everyone about the most fantastic giveaway!! Now- I not only know about this- but found another fantastic and inspriring blog to visit- Pumpkin Patch Primitives Quilt Shop!! Trying to add her to my blog roll- so I can keep up with what's going on over there!! FUN- FUN- And most delightful!! And God only knows how much I Love- Love fabrics!! Wha Hoo!!

Now- the giveaway!! WHO doesn't love fabrics- and what fun the fabric bundles are!! Go on over to http://pumpkinpatchprimitivequiltshoppe.blogspot.com/ and see for yourself- all the goodies she is having in her giveaway- and scroll around and visit!! You're going to need a cup of coffee, cuz there's lots to look at and do!!

Speaking of which!! Back to visiting I go!! Now- Scoot!! Get on over there to visit!! And be sure to visit all the talented folks on my blog roll!! Wonderful - Fantastic Fun!!

Blessings!!

Niki

2009-10-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

Popping In For A Quick Visit...

So much has been keeping me hopping- but thought I'd pop in for a quick visit... I'm cleaning and decorating - working like crazy- playing with family-friends and of course the horses- and just living life!! And boy oh boy has the weather been just as busy as I... We have had cold and rainy days- some with sun- a lot with winds- and well- it seems like ol' father winter is just knocking at fall's door.... BUT... we've got some fall celebrating to do before we let him gust on in here right??? I mean- there's harvest bounty cooking- decorating- halloween- and just having some fun!! Plenty of time for the long winter ahead- right? (smiles)

Also- as mentioned- working like crazy- you know me!! My new marketplace site is coming along beautifully!! Occupying a LOT of my time but is going to be sooo worth it once done!! I'm so excited!! Will let you all in for a quick peek soon- promise!!

Well- I do so hope this day finds you all well- dry- and warm!! Me- I've a few more things to do- and then off to la la land!! Snuggy blankets calling my name...

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-10-08T21:52:00.001-07:00

Not just your ordinary graphic!! Oh no!! And- I can finally say I made something for the All Hallows season!! :)

Okay... my mother in law- having a party this weekend- needed a costume- and came up with "The Man In The Moon" idea.. Well -sounds simple right??? Awww- not so much :) he he... Well- she put lil ol' me- in charge of coming up with a mask for her.. Sounds simple right???? Awww- not so much!! Oh My Goodness!! I tried everything- as this was supposed to be a simple- no fret project- in the manner of being a "paper flat mask", sorta thing... I wanted to go all out- with paper mache- molding to face- yada yada- but no time- and really - it was supposed to be "simple"...

Welll- can you believe that it's a lot harder than one would think to come up with an "ideal" flat mask??? I mean really!! I used one she had for a template- and I tried everything- but as soon as ya cut out the eye spots- and wrapped this "man in the moon" face image around your head- OMG!!! Not sure if it was a monster or an alien or what!! Finally- I came up with the above image- exact size- and I used a pre-made molded eye only type of masquerade mask- and I taped it to that- soooo- it gives the middle of the moon face dimension- while keeping it round looking- etc., etc., and attached to your head!!

Whew!!

Momma will be here in the am... And I'll have her pick the image color she wants- as this one is more of a yellowish tint- and not sure if she wants it more white-ish.. THEN- I will firmly attach to the premade masq. mask- with glues and she'll be all set!! I HOPE!!

Soooo- I guess not having the internet for the last 24 hours gave me time to "play".. he he.... Although slightly frustrating- it gave me a chance to do something fun- and gave me a final "brilliant" idea on how to perhaps create some fun fun masks in the future!! Ahhh- can I say!! Oh- I'll post a pic tomorrow- if I can get the momma to pose!!

And now it's almost 1:30 in the wee hours of the morning- and after catching up with folks online- FINALLY- I think I'm finally going to turn in for the night... Till next time my friends!!

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-10-04T08:27:00.001-07:00

I know it's been a little while since last in- but so much has been happening here... Let's see.... Looking for a new place to live- I traded one horse for a friends horse- and have one for sale- Our truck broke- both of them- John ( hubby) got laid off- I'm working tail feathers off trying to clean out house- get rid of "stuff" and keep up- and oh yeah- working even harder at website work, new products etc... Sooooo- this is just a few things!! The rest- is well- Life!! :)

We have just been running in circles it seems- and I just want to play!! Sooo- I might wake up the kid- aka Rachael- and saddle up the horses and go for a nice Fall ride... It's actually going to stop raining for a spell today!! Goodness.. It's been a muddy mess- and non stop rain around here.. WOW.... Need More Sunshine!! Yes I do!!

Thought I'd pop in- as I finally got a chance to do some blog visiting yesterday- and said- my goodness- naughty blogger again!! I haven't posted in awhile myself- so I best at least pop in- to say Howdy!! Yikes And Zorks!! :)

Hope you are all having beautiful Fall weather where you are at... I'll post some pics soon too!! Well- as soon as we get a sunny enough day!!

Many Blessings

Niki

2009-09-20T21:55:00.000-07:00

Well... guilty I am for not "making" new goodies- but I will tell ya- I'm still having tons of fun with webwork and graphics.. Soooo- I just keep sharing.. Also--- The first day of Fall is Tuesday!! And the countdown to our beautiful fall season is on- followed by our most-est favoritest ( that's two good words right?) of all- Halloween... And lets not forget the bountiful harvest's we've gathered or enjoyed- and look forward to celebrating Thanksgiving and then of course Christmas.. WOW... All this goodness- packed into just a few seasons... Lovin' all of it...

I've got my doodles prepared- my inspiration is top notch- my supplies are ready to put on the table- but alas- I've just been swamped.. Between re-vamping the home- and tons and tons of work- I just can only go sooo thin... But I have to say- I do enjoy every bit of everything I do.... It's all art- and It's all so fun!!

For now- I'm off to bed.. The day has finally caught up- and I'm finally wound down enough to sleep!! The notepad and sketchbook will have to await till the morrow... Ohhhh- and before I forget... Great news coming soon about my marketplace.. It too has been under construction and is also going to called by a whole new name.. A new look- a new name- and some fantastic new features I am praying all will enjoy!! I will keep you posted on our transformation...

Till then.. And Many Blessings

Niki

2009-09-15T21:48:00.000-07:00

Sunflowers are just gorgeous... A timeless flower and food too if you will that lets us know that summer is come to an end- and Fall is here... Their beautiful colors and great big glorious leaves are just a wonderful reminder of what has come and what is yet to be seen... Oh- how nature gives us artists the most wonderful color palettes to work with!!

I pulled up at my mother in laws today- and not only did she have these gorgeous yellow type critters on display- but this Biggest patch of sunflowers- flowers I can't name- and the tallest patches of thick reeded grasses- and it just made me smile.. How awesome.. She's feeding the critters- and themselves too- and just enjoying every minute of the wonders in her front garden.. As I was too when I pulled up.

Sooooo- just sharing a moment today- as I reflect on this ever so busy day- on how something so simple- and yet wondrous can just make your day!!

For now- I am off to la- la land... More to come when I get up!! Need to catch up on some zzzzzz's....

Many Blessings

Niki

2009-09-11T10:25:00.001-07:00

God Bless America

Saying a prayer- and remembering those who have fallen for our country- for those fighting for our country and for the fallen hero's and loved ones that have been lost. May you all remember, and not forget.

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-09-10T20:16:00.000-07:00

A New Graphic Pretty

I know you've seen this one- well- kind of... But I was working on this graphic some more... And I wanted to do a really kewl background for my desktop on my puter... Sooo- thought I would share!! I just love the way it turned out.. Almost Spooky- but as I was watching the orange moon last night- from my porch- through the misty clouds- I thought to myself how kewl it was- and how it looked like the very same graphic I was working on a little while back. I just finished adding in all the misty clouds- and of course some of my own photo touches!! :) Had a blast.. Anywho- if you want to use it for your screensaver- by all means- just click on the picture. It should open in a new tab or window- full size- 1440 x 900 pixels- and then you can save it and turn it into your own computer background.. Please just use only for a desktop background- and nothing else though- as I plan on using the design for future graphic products of mine.. Mucha appreciated...

Other than this- am going through an "adjustment" period- of daughter being back in school- Fall approaching- so much to do- and for the last week have been working as hard as I can- but yet in a state of limbo.. We're still waiting to hear if we are going to be able to buy this house we're in- and what our future holds- so I am keeping myself as busy and focused as this ol' mind of mine will allow.. Praying for good outcomes- as no matter what- we have soooooo much to do before Winter... And of course- life has it's way of just keepin' ya hoppin- now doesn't it???

On another note.... This should be my 40th post!!!! IT TOOK ME FOREVER!!! Sooooo- for those that pop by- keep on coming- (or I'll definitely feel like I'm talking to myself) - because when I finally hit my 50th post- I will be having some sort of giveaway!! Hmmmmm- that gives me how long? And only 10 posts to go... Sooo- time to think of what we shall do.... *smiles*

And on that note- back to work for me.. Sooooo much to do!!! That and a nice hot shower- and a nap will do... I'm pooped.. Till next time...

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-09-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

Tick Tock- Tick Tock

Time is sure ticking- around here!! Fall is upon us- Halloween almost here.. Daughter goes back to school tomorrow- and the race is on!! Soooooo much to do- and it just seems like that ol' clock ticks faster than I can run!! :) This year especially- time has just flew right by- no puns intended towards the witch in the clock- or is it? *smiles*..... I am sooo behind- I'm not sure if I am behind or ahead.. Maybe if I think I'm ahead- for next year- I'll be much more at ease!!

So- without further ado- I prepare my daughter for her 1st day back- as she is going into 11th grade.. HOW did that happen? Poooof!! Just like that... Time flies- is not just an expression- it really does fly by so fast- that you have to stop it every once in awhile to reflect.. Whew!!

My reflection today- is of course how time flies- and as this day too flies right by- I too must put it in high gear.. We've got some last minute running- errands- and what not- and are trying to figure out what we're gonna do on her last day of "freedom"... Hmmmmm- lets see where this day goes!!

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-09-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

I Like Little Baby Ducks...

Don't You? And of course- how can you resist a little baby duck - waiting for Halloween? :) I couldn't... he he..

Just playing around with some graphics this morning/afternoon- as I work on some website stuff.. It's Labor Day after all- so I'm not working as hard as I should- kinda just puttering... We've had a lot going on around here lately, and have finally found some hope for purchasing the home we've been fixing and renting for the last 6 years, so now I am waiting to finalize everything- and really working on getting my business in high gear again- as I spent the last year working on a dairy farm- and trying to run the business.. WHEW... Thinking things caught up with me- and needed a "day" to just re-think!! Sooo- alas- the cute little duck came across my path- and I had to have some fun- if not just for a few...

Hoping you all have a wonderful Labor Day- and are getting some of this gorgeous Fall-ish weather like we are having here... It's not to hot- not too chilly- Just right!! Already had some homemade cabbage soup with my leftover halupki thrown in- yum yum- and now am ready to get serious... :) Maybe ( smiles)...

Till next time... Many Blessings

Niki

2009-09-03T08:15:00.001-07:00

A Gorgeous Day...

Today is just simply gorgeous outside... I went out to feed the horses- and the crows were about- as well as some geese- and of course my little barn swallows- just waiting for some feed to make it to the ground... Greeted with nickers from the horses and warm sunshine on my face, I begin to feel blessed and full of hope....

Aren't the simplest things just the most beautiful... And yet these simple little gifts from nature remind one of soo much!! So- as my family still sits in limbo- over where our future will go- I am comforted in the fact that no matter what- we are a strong family- blessed by many things!!

On another note.. I finally - finally found some energy and focus yesterday, and my daughter and I got the entire basement cleaned out.... Do you want to talk about pack rats? Ohhh- that would be me... Funny though!! I managed to throw out- or rather let go- of a HEAPING truckload of stuff!! It was almost falling out... Heaped so high- he couldn't see behind him... Yikes... Unbelievable what I've saved and collected- and ohhh- "we'll use this or we'll use that.. " Oh My God!! Soooo- out it all went, leaving me with still a basement full- but everything is cleaned- organized- and what treasures I still have.... All in neat labeled boxes and bins- just waiting to breathe new life later on.... Between that and everything I have in this house and the garage, my friends, I have enough "Loot" to keep me crafting for at least 10 years!! Soooo much fun planned ahead.... Ya know? Sometimes you just have to let go though.. :)

Well- lots planned today- including mowing lawns and what not- so I have to get a move on.. And who knows what wil get tackled today!!

Many Blessings

Niki

2009-09-02T08:15:00.000-07:00

Whoooo? Me?????

Just love this guy... Now this is a face I'll be using for a future sculpt... I have him in the ol' sketchbook - ready to go.... But alas, my sculpting adventures are yet on hold.... We've has some landowner issues of late, and are in negotions to keep our home... Sooo- things have been a little rough lately, and are hoping for positive resolutions, and that we will be able to stay... We have built this place up and planted roots, for the past 6 years, on a rental basis- with future option to buy- and in great trust of the owner... And now- things are in limbo, and he's debating whether to sell... Well... After 6 years, and probably around 14,000... Not to mention our backbreaking labor, we want to finally just have it as our own, and not wait any longer. Ahhhh- the things that life brings us....

Soooo, with the cooler seasons now upon us- and of course holidays to prepare for, I find myself saying 'Who? me?".... Ohhh- I'm staying optimistic... I'm preparing for anything that may happen.... And I'm keeping my faith, and my heart high and hopeful... And I'm still sketching away- and preparing for the seasons, but alas, it may be just a bit longer.... Thank God for the inspiration though!! I so very much need that right now- while in limbo...

Soo- for those of you who visit... Come again often- and I promise- one of these weeks- there's going to be so many new things I've created- you'll want to stay and visit.... and hopefully enjooy... And we all could use a little help as well- by keeping us in your thoughts as we strive to cut out a chunk of this great land- all for ourselves... It's a wonderful chunk I'll tell you....

Will be back again soon... Till Then- Enjoy!!

Niki

2009-08-23T23:18:00.000-07:00

No Works In Progress Yet... But, aren't the graphics from long ago nifty too...... That and seeing how I've been swamped with website work- and networking- and all that fun jazz- I'm here anyway- having fun!! I am a WIP!!! :) What can I say? I start to move on some projects- get caught up here- or something else takes me in a different direction- and what can I say? I'm only one :) But having fun!!

Aren't these vintage images a blast??? Besides creating a whole bunch of my own seasonal graphics and such- I'm having so much fun altering and cutting out some oldies- but goodies... They are pure inspiration in themselves... Just love it...

It's been a few days or so since I've posted- and have been rather swamped, and sore!! My sweet darling little black draft pony cross- Blacky- decided to have an ever so evil day a few days ago- and he pulled something on me I never would have expected... He took off on a dead run- bucking all the way- and I lost my grip ( no saddle- no bridle ) as I had my slippery pajama's on- and he dumped my old and decrepid behind and body right in the gravel of the driveway... After several attempts at getting up- I caught him -worked him all day until my body couldn't take any more- and well- the rest of the day wasn't exactly peaches for that little boy!! He KNOWS what he did- and I can tell he even feels bad... He keeps nudging me now- even- trying to get love.... Naughty Naughty Pony!! Just goes to show - we all have our days... Unfortunately- I DO NOT BOUNCE like I used ta... Nope!! I don't think he missed a stone in that driveway... And impact sucked... OWWWWW.... I'll tell ya....

Ah well- so- that's been my week... Slowly- I am healing... Enough to work the horses- as they so need to be worked- point taken- thank you Blacky..... And enough to get around and putter through some other things... Whew!! What a week....

Sooo- hoping this week is SOOOOO much more productive- and a little less rough!! :)

Till Next time... From me, the family- and the furbabies....
Many Blessings

Niki

2009-08-19T22:18:00.000-07:00

Should Be Working On....
Well.... On all of my new creations- BUT..... I just love love doing graphics.... Sooo- as this is "be-fitting" of creating- and all seasons Hallow ( upcoming of course ).... I am going to plead the 11th- which is- "I am working on my creations- HONEST".... Okay- so I made that up too... :) *giggles*

I have to tell you though- doing a search for real live ravens- moons- trees- and all that has got my creative juices flowing more than you can imagine... Whew!! On overload I do believe... A good overload though... :)

Ohhh- my daughter Rachael and I went shopping today- and it is amazing on what a few little extra goodies can do too get you going too!! We got the mostest kewlest sketch books made from 100% recycled paper- that is a kraft color and texture.. Ohhhhh- now to make them into wonderful art journals!! We're both chicken to start that first page- so we're Game Planning on what to do to the covers first!! Hmmmmm....That wonderful blank canvas... :)

Well- thought I'd pop in to say Hi- and display one of my most recent "graphic creations"... Keyword- creations... * smiles*.... And letcha all know that things are "brewing" here... Can't wait to share!! Now---- TO FOCUS!!! ha ha..... Oh my!!

Thanks For Visiting!!
Many Blessings
Niki

2009-08-16T15:54:00.001-07:00

Just look at all these fun faces!!

As I am scorching in this rather unusual heat- sweltering 90's.... I can only think of fall- and the wonderful fun it brings!! I've got my clay out- and ready- sketchbooks overflowing- and of course all the inspiration a girl could hope for online too of course!! And low and behold I find these delightful wonderful faces... Hmmmmm... What inspiration indeed

Been doing some blog hopping as well- as it's such a fun thing to do- so if you need some inspiration yourself- or just want to spend a day enjoying taking a peek into the lives of some very very talented artists- do look at my blog roll to the left!! You won't be disappointed...

One more week of getting a site done I am working on- and then it's all HALLOWS for me!! Wha Hoo!! Can't wait... Oh there's sure to be some ( or maybe a lot ) of Christmas goodies in there too of course.. Tis the seasons!! I can't wait... Just a few more pages on this site- and that will at least wrap up one of my biggy projects!! Whew!!

Well - till next time my pretties!! I've got horses to tend to- and then a homestead to work on!!

Many Blessings!!

Niki

2009-08-10T10:44:00.001-07:00

I told you all I was in the Hallowen Spirit.... That and Fall..... Especially today- when it's 90 and muggy soggy!! :) Oh- and figured I'd start doing seasonal layouts on the blog- for some nifty eye candy!! Well- I'm having fun with it anyway!! :) Hope you do too.....

I'm getting 4 new tall bar stools tomorrow- so I can finally put them up to my "new" old table I put together to work at.. My workroom is finally really coming together. I got two old vintage half barral whiskey kegs- cut in half that is- and bottom to bottom placed together- and put an old table top on top... Well...... Then the table was too tall to work at- so naturally- I had to go haunting for the perfect chairs.. I'm gong to go get those tomorrow- and then my daughter and I are breaking out all the clays and paints... I can't wait...

Working on my sewing projects ( Patty ) on one counter... :) he he.... And all that fun clay and mache stuff on the other- and I'm thrilled....So kewl...

Well- I'm off and running as there is sooo much to do today!! Hope you are all enjoying the day!!

Many Blessings

Niki

2009-08-07T08:59:00.001-07:00

In The Halloween Spirit...

I just can't help it... Everywhere you look- artists and enthusiasts alike are brimming with delight over the spirit of Halloween and Fall, soon fast approaching I might add... And who can resist...

Sooo- my question to me is?? Do I break out my clay and play? Or fabrics? Or both!! I see a huge workroom "Mess" coming this way soon.... For now- I am simply gathering my inspirations, and enjoying what is soon to come...

And then- then there is Christmas... Now- I am at an "Impasse' " with myself.... I struggle to decide what to play with there too!! My goodness... This ol' studio of mine is going to get really really busy soon. It's ultimately my destiny to just get it all out and going... I have to!! I can't resist....

Sooo- Stay Tuned... More to come- and of course new creations on their way. I have a few other "goodies" tucked in my sleeve as well.... So- I'll share all that with you soon!! Promise!!

Many Blessings!!

Niki

2009-08-01T21:23:00.001-07:00

"Thinking Ahead-I know- but before you know it- there will be snow" "Diddly Doo"

He is a one of a kind creation- and as you can tell he's kind of cold!! He's touting a rusty bell garland with B R R written on circle tags, held by his wirey twiggy and bendable arms. And atop his head he has a paper grubbied cone hat with a ball at the top, and grubbied batting around the rim.. He has an adorable peppercorn face with a clay grubbied nose- and a gingham scarf about his neck... And low and behold he has a miniature friend on his shoulder- a little clay sculpted cardinal.... Keeping him company in the snowy weather!! On his chest adorns a mini 3d rusty star with some burgundy and gold pips!! Diddly Doo is attached to a super grungied based- and has "snow" about his bottom!! He is firmly attached with glues!!

I hope that you find him a delight and find a warm spot in your heart and home for Diddly Do- because he's cold and needs you as you can see!!
Diddly Do- Is Now On Ebay....

2009-08-01T08:58:00.001-07:00

The Power Of Focus
by Ralph Marsten

Thousands of possibilities stream past you every day. You cannot possibly connect with, or even take notice of, most of those possibilities. So- which ones do you see, and which ones are you able to fulfill? The possibilities you'll connect with are the ones that most closely align with your thoughts and actions.

Your thoughts have an incredibly powerful influence on your life, but not because those thoughts cause anything t happen on their own. Rather, certain specific thoughts enable you to tap into, and to successfully follow, certain specific possibilities.

The life of your dreams is manifested not by calling upon some dark and mysterious secret power. Your dreams will be fulfilled when you tune in to and align the substance of your life with those dreams.

Somewhere, in some form, every thing, every experience, every circumstance you can imagine already exists in some form or another. By focusing the energy of your life on your dream, you'll be able to successfully assemble all the pieces together. The very best possibilities for your life are already coming your way. Focus on them with sincerity and commitment, and you'll soon be moving forward right along with them.

This is one of my favorite expressions that I've found along the way- and the author has a site- "The Daily Motivator", http://greatday.com.... So if you wish to seek out some daily inspiration for yourself- follow along. I know it puts me into perspective quite often!!

Till next time.... I've got some new goodies to make!! Oh- and the sun is out- so I have a lawn to do and horses to tend to:) Busy Busy:)

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-07-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

Why Not???

I think- yes- I do think:) He he.. That I will start posting pics
somewhere on here, of works I've done in the past- and stuff I have for
grabs now... Hmmm... Guess I've been out in blog land for so long-
browsing and visiting, and getting ALL THESE IDEAS IN MY HEAD!!! Sometimes
a good thing- sometimes it gets me into trouble... But alas, what I find
so fun about other artists blogs- is all of the wonderful- fabulous eye candy!!
I love seeing that fantastic creativity, and can only hope to show some here as
well... I just love to dabble in so many things- as some of you may know-
so I'm going to show a tid bit of this- and a tad bit of that!! Maybe
brighten things up a bit on here huh? :) Sooo- let me figure out
where all this fun stuff will be, as I'll be doing a continuous show and tell.

Starting out with a pic of one of my all time favorite Halloween creations I
made this past season... Going to HAVE to make some more of these- not
exactly- but "like" these- ya know???? I just love em- so much fun!!!
And I just love, love, love Halloween and Fall- oh- and Christmas And Winter...
Hmmm- not much in the art world I don't love- or the seasons for that matter-
well- except bitter cold- and sweltering hot.. There really is a happy medium... :)
Anywho- we'll start here- and maybe I'll have to um- just put a new column in-
somewhere:) For more goodies and such!!! Sooo- here we go.....

On another note- I see many other artists showcasing other artists- and Oh My!!
I just love this.. No- I am not out there Idea Stealing, or copying blog creativity-
I'm trying to spread the word- and hollar out to all about the wonderful talent you
are going to find!! So- take a journey... Visit some of the fantastic artists
blogs that I've started to fill in- over there to the left you'll see- and go on
a blog journey!! Get a pot of coffee ready!! You're going to need
it... And don't forget- have fun- enjoy- and you might just want to set a
time limit- unlike me- as I know you'll get lost!! I'll be adding more and
more blogs as we go!! I've got Tons bookmarked- and just love catching up
"virtually" with all these oh so talented folks out there!! Oh- and a word
of warning.... Once you visit their blogs- you will find blogs that they
list- and Oh My!! I'm telling you- you are going to get lost for days...
Wandering about in Blog land... But a much loved journey it will be...

Well- have pics to post soon- and more blogs to add... And seeing how it's
2 in the morning.. I might think about getting up to that big ol' bed of
mine - really soon!! Eyes are getting heavy!! Oh so heavy!!

Soooo- come back soon- to see some of "my eye candy" or my fun stuff- whichever you prefer... I do hope you enjoy seeing some of these creations as much as I so enjoy creating them.... And hold on tight- there is so much more
to come.. I have ideas!! WAY TOO MANY IDEAS!!! But it makes me
smile....

Enjoy the morning my friends... And hope your day is bright and fun!!

Many Blessings
Niki

2009-07-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

Missing In Action?

Not really..... Just been super super busy- of course!! As
Always... Well- you know the story... It's summer- there is horses
and cows, lawn mowing and weed eating, gardening, cookouts, campfires, cleaning,
and of course tons of website work to keep me more than busy through each moment of the day!! Sooo- each time I pop in to my blog- I end up browsing everyone else's blogs, and then
I don't end up saying anything on mine:) he he...

Oh- also been working on my workroom- Yes- again!! For those that know me- I am
everchanging everything in my rooms- my house- everywhere!! It's a
sickness I do believe, but something I must do!! Seeing how I don't have my gift shop
open in my home anymore- I've been slowly transforming our home- and the rooms,
and workroom, and the old shop room- into more "presentable" homey comfy cozy rooms!!
It's a long long process- as I had tons and tons of stuff to hide!! Holy
Hanna!!

Here's a pic of how I am doing so far... Oh- and in this "makeover" -
he he he..... I decided to "remove" another wall in our home.. Don't
worry- not a low bearing wall, just one that was in my way to "opening" up my workspace to the rest of the house:) Still Have a lot to do, and a lot of "finishing touches" to make
it more homey- and yet creative and inspirational, but.... On a roll.. Oh- and
still waiting for my sliding glass door- to go where that window is on the one bare wall:)

Hubby and I built the "fabric shelf" :) yay!!! And I distressed and
antiqued it.. Love it!! And we found the old old other wood
cabinet in the right hand corner of the picture!! Oh- love that too...

I built this bookcase- and covered my closet- with tan colored curtains...
Lots of junk behind those curtains!! The good junk though!!

Well- I am still alive, and kicking!! And sometimes hollaring and
screaming- No- just kidding!! Nothing to hollar about here!! All is
good...

I have been doing some blog hopping though- and have been having a blast-
however- there are two things about this!! The good thing- is that it
inspires me... Sparks that ol' creativity and makes me want to do it all!!
The bad thing- is that - well- I get lost browsing forever- and I don't get
anything done!! Oooops!! How ironic huh???

Well- thought I'd pop in to say Hi to anyone who stops and visits!! I have
one more website to "wrap up" this week- and then I am all gung ho on
working on my whole new line of seasonal products!!! My sketchbook- and brain
for that matter are so overflowing- that I just HAVE to get some new
goodies done!! Kicking self in hyney to get busy!! So- speaking of
which!! I'll catch you all soooooooon...

Blessings
Niki

2009-05-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

Making Progress!! And Doing The Happy Dance....

Well time to post what I do in my spare time ( ha ha )
pictures!! :) Below is a pic of our barn- in progress- but oh my-
it's ready for the horses and I've got all 3 moved in already!! Ohhh- yes- we still have to cut ends off - fold tin down- run the walls up to the top etc., etc., but by
golly- it's good enough so all 3 critters are in their new stalls and lovin'
it!! I am soooo happy!! We finished up enough to get our new horse in on Sunday!! Doors were up- and stalls ready for their new occupants!!

This is Charlie!! Oh- isn't he just gorgeous!! I just got him on
Monday!! He's such a charmer!! He really really needs his feet done bad- so no riding till after this coming Tuesday- so I just can't wait!! For now- he is lovin' life here at our crazy little farm!! :) Charlie is an appendix... Which is
a Quarter Horse/Thoroughbred cross- and he's only about 7 years old this year...

And More of Charlie!! Boy does he need a bath... :)

And here is Sable!! My Morgan/Standardbred cross mare!!! She's a handful- but love her just the same!! Makes life spectacularly interesting.... We had an awesome ride today too!! Went all over the state lands up here.. Just gorgeous!!
Sable is almost 14 years old... We got her about 3 months ago- and wellllll- she came to us needing lots of groceries and a bit of an attitude adjustment.. She tore my garage apart- kicked apart 3 doors- and all sorts of wonderful things!! Took about 2 months to get her to calm down and get back into the swing of critter lives with humans life!! Shes' really working out great though- and can't help
but love her!! She most definitely needs lots and lots of love- which she
gets here!! Lots of potential this one!!!

And here is Sable and Me- in her stall.... Cleaning and chore time...

Here's a pic of one of our stalls- Blacky's Stall!! The barn is sooo rustic- which I love so much- and the stalls are actually huge!! The horses just love it.....

And Of course- here's our ol' faithful- Blacky!! He's our tank- faithful and true Draft Pony Cross horse... He's about 14- and we've had him for about 2 plus years.. He has sooooo much character- and just makes ya laugh and smile...
He's a blast to ride!!

And here is Rachael with Blacky!! She rides him- and him only!! They are buds!! Isn't my daughter just gorgeous!! So proud of her- and my critters!!

And it all wouldn't happen without my family- and my ever loving hubby who has slaved and slaved to build me things for my critters- and for my enjoyments!! Love him from the tippy top of me heart!!

Well- that's all the pics for now!! I know that I went
on and on- but this is what has kept me otherwise pre-occupied the most
these last few weeks.... Oh- that and tons and tons of website work!!
Got one more done- for a client- and then 3 more to finish.. Oh- need so much to get more of my own goodies listed too- but in due time!!

Well- for now- I bid ya adoooo.... Will post again
soon!! Hope ya enjoyed some of our pics!!

Blessings
Niki

2009-05-07T22:15:00.001-07:00

Busy- Busy- Busy!!

Oh yes- of course- I've been busy busy and oh so busy!! Tis the story of my wonderful life:) Not a dull moment- and I'm a lovin' it... This week- especially- has been full of outdoor fun stuff- lots of website work- and some playin' around- as we have ta do that too ya knows....

Decided to play with some pics- and above is a picture of me with my two sisters... Tammy the oldest on the left- me- in the middle- and Caryn the second to arrive in this world- on the right!! Love my sisters!! Aren't they beautiful? I do so think so myself!!

And of course- I have been a busy girl- as part of our crew- working on our new horse barn!! Well- it's nothing spectalar mind you- as we are doing all rustic and functional- but boy oh boy will I be doing the happy dance this weekend- when it's finally done!! Here's a picture of our "progress"

This of course was taken at the beginning of the "Putting On the roof" day!! By day's end- we got the whole roof on... Now this weekend- we finish the walls- the stall partitions- and of course the gates!! Shopping I go tomorrow- to get some buckets and chains and snaps and goodies!! By Sunday End, I do so hope our barn is done enough so that we can get our new horse up here!!! Sooo- you'll be waiting till then for more pics- and of course pics of the critters!!

I'm excited.. Lots of great things going on- and the weather is gorgeous- and gardens are going in- and everything is GREEN!! Love it...

Well- till next time... I'll be back!! Got some more pics to share- and more to take...

Blessings To Ya's!!
Niki