tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29546870201956930302012-02-11T20:33:45.194-08:00Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.comBlogger611100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-49610946385226455862012-02-09T08:33:00.000-08:002012-02-11T17:59:55.420-08:00

You know the kind of S.O.S. I'm talking about:  those nagging children issues and feelings that only chocolate cures!  While the bag of chocolates sits in the pantry, package already torn open, ever so slightly, it is just too easy to sneak one piece here, nab one there, a few later, a few sooner...until the next time, when you find the bag is completely void of any chocolate remains except

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-13605329077448003122012-02-04T16:19:00.000-08:002012-02-11T18:02:23.960-08:00

The title says it all.  For anyone who's never seen the film, "Jerry Maguire," it is the best Valentine's movie EVER. The phrase, "You had me at hello" is one of the more iconic phrases in my vocabulary, and it is the creative catalyst for this altered art project.  And best of all, I used materials from my stash!  I started with these somewhat "cugly" striped coasters  which I immediately

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-869887248792611482012-01-24T08:58:00.000-08:002012-01-27T08:37:00.447-08:00

Here it is late January, and I'm still writing up my to-do-list for the new year.  So many things to take care of.  One of my resolutions is to carve out crafting time a few times a week.  Until I get this prioritized, I have decided to re-post favorite Valentine's Day theme projects.  Here's one which includes an entire coordinated ensemble.  Enjoy! A heartfelt handmade gift means so much, both

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-3609030586013748112012-01-19T15:29:00.000-08:002012-01-31T18:37:58.359-08:00

You look so familiar.  Do we know each other?   Oh yes, I recognize you now.  We frequently run into each other in the $1 aisle at Tar-che[z]! Well in that case, you probably bought a few of these tin mailboxes.  Did you get one in red, white or pink? Oh, one of each color! Me, too... Most probably you will use this cute little box to "mail" Valentine goodies to your special

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-38312694967624192622012-01-06T17:35:00.000-08:002012-01-18T11:48:12.911-08:00

Happy New Year!  Hope you had a wonderful and creative holiday season.  Have you packed up all the holiday decorations yet?  We did.  It's always so nice to bring them out from the garage every year.  Then it's a chore great putting them away.  Our home always looks so clean afterwards with just one exception:  my craft cave.  [I call it a cave because it is slightly larger than our

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-72214950052202077072011-12-16T18:12:00.000-08:002011-12-16T18:12:29.998-08:00

Growing up in San Francisco, our winters didn't consist of "dashing through the snow" or making snow angels -- we tried, but there's not a lot one can make out of dense fog.  Unless, of course, you can blow smoke rings out of the chilly air. One of our favorite things to do, however, was count the Christmas trees we passed while riding here and there.  The holiday trees were so colorful,

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-60748519369360009972011-12-10T22:32:00.000-08:002011-12-16T08:46:26.064-08:00

I know I promised you Eight Projects for Chanukah, but can I help it if I took a long-deserved break and went to Las Vegas with my BFF?!!  It was so very needed.  We had a great time just hanging out together with all the eye candy there is to see.  At one point, while on the phone with my daughter (a Las Vegas expert after three visits), we saw flames and smoke coming out of a....well we

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-15835547957307854242011-11-27T09:07:00.000-08:002011-11-29T18:40:29.206-08:00

Now that Thanksgiving weekend is almost over, it's time to stop talking turkey and get back into creating gifts for Chanukah.  With less than a month to go, there is no time to waste. My second project in the Eight Projects of Chanukah series is this embellished candle holder.  This is a pretty alternative to the not-so-decorative box that the menorah candles come in from the store. Supplies

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-23597022335885189202011-11-15T16:06:00.000-08:002011-12-01T07:46:49.740-08:00

It's time to countdown to Chanukah. My intention was to post one project every week until Chanukah begins.  However, when I looked at the calendar, I realized there are only five weeks until the Festival of Lights! I'm just going to have to work a little faster in order to create and post eight projects in just over one month.  So let's get altering!  The first of my eight projects is called "

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-7433857857749450462011-10-17T19:01:00.000-07:002011-10-27T15:42:47.343-07:00

What do you get when you mix m&ms with candy corn?  Well, if you add them to a painted terra cotta pot, you get a special Halloween treat! Now I'm not one for much Halloween hoopla.  However, I am a sucker for embellished terra cotta pots.So when I read Kim's creative idea at Maiden D'Shade,I decided to borrow her idea of candy corn painted terra cotta pots. Plus, I couldn't help myself while

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-91737527374745654352011-09-30T11:39:00.000-07:002011-09-30T11:59:09.602-07:00

Rumor has it that yesterday was "National Coffee Day."  Since I was busy observing our religious new year, this post is a day late; however, when it comes to coffee, everyday is Coffee Day! This is definitely true in our house, and here is the sign adorning my craft room door to prove it: So come on over for a visit and share your favorite coffee drink with me!   To celebrate this wonderful "

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-59652262307252381302011-09-14T17:10:00.000-07:002011-10-14T21:35:49.986-07:00

Before I saw this retro card with the quote, "I am only as strong as the coffee I drink & the hairspray I use," it didn't occur to me to put the words "coffee" and "hairspray" together in the same sentence. Maybe it's the image that makes it work -- take a close look at the stylish woman with the fancy  hairdo and a cup o' joe in her hand. And get the pearls! I always thought pearls went more

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-68476086683632807872011-08-30T10:09:00.000-07:002011-08-30T19:01:16.531-07:00

The end of the summer always "begins" with my birthday celebration. Although my hubby suggested I invite friends over for a fun crafting soiree, I chose to spend the day with him and the kids.  Our older daughter, a recent UC Davis college grad [Go Aggies!], just landed a real career-job, and is now living in the OC, closer to home.  While in two days, our younger daughter leaves for the other

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-30075809965303181882011-08-18T14:33:00.000-07:002011-08-23T22:51:41.867-07:00

Gothic art, a Medieval art movement that developed in France out of Romanesque art in the mid-12th century, has taken on a revival of sorts, especially in clothing and accessories.  Sometimes misunderstood, goth is usually considered counterculture.   Well, this is as counterculture as I get -- my version of Gothic artwork, Momma style!  Using a new Gothic-style paper collection, I 

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-29812443079030702752011-08-15T14:05:00.000-07:002011-09-02T08:48:37.961-07:00

[This post originally appeared as a guest blog on Positively Splendid.] Being a student in a small college town has its perks -- like riding your bike from your apartment to class, meeting friends downtown for coffee, and stopping at the library for a study session, and then cycling back home, all while exercising your brain and your body.  In June, our older daughter graduated from this

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-4835332236677880602011-08-03T16:12:00.000-07:002011-08-03T16:12:15.823-07:00

OMG!  It must be my incredibly lucky day because today I'm featured on Positively Splendid.  Amy's wonderful blog is packed full of everything creative -- crafts, sewing, baking, painting, tutorials, decor and...well, everything!  I'm totally exhausted just thinking about all the inspiration that Amy shares.  So, grab a cup of coffee or tea (I'll have a large iced latte please) and join me over

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-61713518240664164652011-07-25T11:31:00.000-07:002011-07-27T22:18:57.289-07:00

Here it is mid late July, and the summer passes me by like rushing whitewater against the sandy shore.  I have so many creative ideas that need to be channelled from my right brain to my coffee-themed craft room.  I'm not even going to begin with my excuses...that would be an entire post in and of itself!  Well, today is a new day!  And to spice things up a bit, I am guest blogging on one of my

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-37746366394928680332011-06-15T09:00:00.000-07:002011-08-09T23:57:15.714-07:00

College Graduation - check!  So both girls have now graduated, one from high school, and one from college.  It's been a busy week full of smiles and photo ops.  What now you ask?  SUMMERTIME! What better way to kick off summer than with May Arts' Back to the Beach contest.  May Arts provided the ribbon, and I chose an aqua, yellow and tan color combination as the basis of my project.  Here is

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-52194982874644295072011-06-02T17:16:00.000-07:002011-06-03T09:14:26.645-07:00

I'm sure you have been on the edge of your chairs just waiting to see how this little $1 spiral notebook was transformed.  Well, wait no more.  This 4-1/4" x 3-1/4" has been altered, despite its pocket-sized appearance.  Take a look: Materials used include:graduation-theme scrapbook paperblue cardstock, stamped with graduation cap imageone small gold brad, yellow embroidery flosssquare cutout

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-85074932149527675252011-05-24T14:04:00.000-07:002011-06-04T23:55:50.192-07:00

AP tests - check.Prom - check.Senior Awards Night - check.GRADUATION! As promised, here is my second project for graduation gifts.  What better way to say "I'm so proud of you" than with a jar full of chocolate? Supplies needed: 1 bag* Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups[*note:  If you can resist eating any of the candy yourself, then you only need 1/3 of a bag.] 4-1/2" tall Glass Hinged Jar ($1 at

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-89842027808931076392011-05-20T12:25:00.000-07:002011-06-03T09:01:58.793-07:00

Pomp & circumstance...and a cupful of [happy] tears!  Yes, it's graduation season.  Whether your child is graduating from kindergarten or college, it's an emotional time for us Moms.  Where did the years go?  Wasn't she just starting to crawl?  walk?  talk?  ride a bike?  sneak out of the house wearing make-up?  borrow the car keys?  go off to college?   Quick -- hand me the Valium! Thanks.  I

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-38568943278384720662011-05-04T21:48:00.000-07:002012-01-31T18:37:44.891-08:00

Coffee.  Caffeine.  Java. It's not morning in my house until my first cup o' Joe.  After that, you can try talking to me; however, you'll be better off waiting until I've had my second round of caffeine.  OK, now I see you.  Good morning!   Oh, you want to have an interactive discussion?  In that case, pass the coffee pot so I can fill my mug one more time.  If you are also a caffeine

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-30264221975679854712011-04-09T16:46:00.000-07:002011-09-28T07:21:23.819-07:00

In order to stay grounded, it is important to reflect on where you come from.  In my case, creatively speaking anyway, one of the very first crafty things I did was altering used food cans with pretty paper.  As "scrapbook paper" wasn't around in the 60's, I used wrapping paper and wallpaper book samples.   I carefully measured the can's perimeter and length, and then cut (with scissors, no

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-75524554867254990262011-03-16T12:26:00.000-07:002011-03-17T18:17:31.289-07:00

Beach sand, shells and votives light up the room I've heard that a picture is worth a thousand words, but I didn't believe it until this post published without text!  All I did was answer the telephone, and the next thing on my screen read "You have published successfully."  Let me try it again...this time with a few explanations. From the blog title, you may have gathered that we had a bit of

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-24476279718706573272011-02-06T16:50:00.000-08:002012-01-23T13:55:09.619-08:00

A heartfelt handmade gift means so much, both to the giver and receiver.  You know how much love goes into making something special, so it is equally important to know who your recipient is as you create it.   I decided it would be fun to create an entire coordinated ensemble of altered artwork to mix and match for a good friend or two. Finding vintage-style coordinating scrapbook

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-87280727468031629442011-02-02T14:37:00.000-08:002011-02-02T20:54:15.969-08:00

Ahh--another month, another project!   Although my plan is to post altered art projects more frequently,until the dust settles (literally, as we are painting the house), I hope this project will inspire you. This wood plaque caught my eye at Michael's, and because it has a nice wooden frame and a sturdy wire hanger for embellishing, I decided to give it a go, even though it was one more item I

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-13909233133132101132011-01-18T11:44:00.000-08:002011-01-18T11:44:54.942-08:00

What's smaller than a bread box and is totally crafty?  The Silhouette machine.  This is one of my must-haves for the year!  And one of my favorite bloggers, Kaysi, at "Keep it Simple" is giving away one of these beauties.  I'd keep my fingers crossed that I will be the lucky recipient, except I wouldn't be able to create anything as my fingers would be all twisted!  For more information and to

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-23410002703182201382011-01-05T09:00:00.000-08:002011-02-17T07:52:00.663-08:00

Happy New Year! Let's ring in the new, and throw out the old. No, wait! Don't throw out the old. Instead, "upcycle" it. As I near the age matching the year I was born (mid-50's), I find this creative phrase a metaphor for life. Instead of grumbling about all those things that we mid-50 year old women find astonishing (like hairs on the upper lip, a body in need of toning, and grumpy teenage

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-20714885251264023172010-12-16T21:59:00.000-08:002011-11-11T12:16:06.440-08:00

Now that our Chanukah celebration has ended, it is time to stir up some spicy egg nog and get my craft on with some special handmade Christmas gifts!   This is one of my favorite gifts to give to friends and neighbors:  A canning jar filled to the rim with delicious trail mix and red & green m&m's!  After running the glass jar and lid through the dishwasher, and making sure they are completely

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-53685553959364462352010-12-04T00:08:00.001-08:002010-12-04T00:12:57.154-08:00

Give Joy 5x7 folded cardShop Shutterfly.com for elegant photo cards.View the entire collection of cards.This is the photo we are using for our 2010 holiday card.  Shutterfly pays you for posting your photo or album on your blog!  I like this.  It's the easiest thing I've done all day.

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-54802097288237559562010-11-14T20:33:00.000-08:002011-11-01T07:56:28.898-07:00

If you think Chanukah is early this year, you are absolutely right.  And if you think Chanukah is the same time as always, you are also right! How can both these statements be true?  It's because Jewish holidays are celebrated by the lunar calendar.  Chanukah is always the 25th of Kislev.  Because the lunar calendar has an extra leap MONTH every four years, compared to the secular calendar's

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-75391147756829306472010-11-04T16:27:00.000-07:002010-11-04T16:27:32.184-07:00

What?  December is just around the bend?  With 95-degree weather here in Los Angeles, it's difficult to believe that we are just a few short weeks away from Thanksgiving and the December holi-daze!  Well, the calendar doesn't fib, so just in time, here are some great ideas for creating handmade, personal gifts for the special people in your life. Assortment of Chanukah Gifts and Favors 

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-18116820954546458882010-10-29T15:23:00.000-07:002011-10-08T09:38:43.218-07:00

If you just hopped over from Paisley Passions' Thrilling Thursday, welcome to my blog!  I would love to know you visited, so I welcome your comments and your own blog link.What do you get when you cross a leopard with turquoise paint? After a quick sanding, add bright turquoise paint, adhere (i.e., Mod Podge)  funky paper, embellish with ric-rac, rub-on design, tags, mini clothespins, buttons,

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-27193638928797967842010-10-11T22:54:00.000-07:002011-12-02T07:48:38.786-08:00

I may be dating myself by recalling the days when we would anxiously await the mailman's arrival, run downstairs to the garage, and grab the mail from the box that led to the outside slot.  In those days,  before modern communication including Facebook, Twitter, texting and e-mails, we enjoyed old-fashioned snail mail.  I had a pen pal named Anne who lived on the other side of the country in

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-37780380762643628452010-09-19T21:33:00.000-07:002010-09-21T22:57:39.151-07:00

I know the calendar says it's almost fall, but my internal temperature still hints of summer heat. What better way to cool off than with some creative therapy! While browsing through Cost Plus World Market a few weeks ago, trying desperately to use my $10-off coupon (before it expired at the end of that day), a bright yellow metal sign caught my attention. It reads: "Life is a process and your

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-21215121574025620552010-09-14T07:18:00.000-07:002010-09-14T07:18:14.887-07:00

First of all, I want to welcome those of you who have just discovered my blog.  It is filled with fun altered artwork as I "transform the mundane -- one embellishment at a time".  Feel free to scroll down the posts or click on any tags that sound interesting to you.  If you see something you really like, please let me know with a comment!  And, I want to let everyone know that today I am being

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-131728695188129732010-09-09T09:18:00.000-07:002010-09-09T09:18:08.527-07:00

Although school started a few weeks ago, we are now on a 1-1/2 week break due to teacher furloughs, thanks to our wonderful  (not) state budget deficit.  But don't get me going on this.....instead, we will embrace this late summer mini-vacation with bike rides at the beach, crafting, summer salads, crafting, sleeping in, crafting, and did I say crafting? This post is a snapshot of a previous

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-85564208315904843642010-09-01T23:12:00.000-07:002011-03-20T11:52:20.916-07:00

Ahhh - I love when I find a few "JFM" (Just for Me) hours.  Today was just that kinda day.  I left the house early, dropped off The Dog at the groomer's, and knowing it was going to be over 90 degrees today, grabbed a nice, cold iced Venti Latte, then headed to two of my favorite stores:  HomeGoods and Big Lots!  I bought a couple of cutesy kitchen items at HG, but felt like I needed something

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-58364415922732188032010-08-16T22:10:00.000-07:002010-08-16T23:08:43.200-07:00

For all you artisans in Blogville, especially those of you who live in SoCal, you may be familiar with the Laguna Beach Sawdust Festival.  It's the community's annual art fair which runs through the entire summer.  The sawdust-laden grounds are filled with beautiful original artwork including paintings, pottery and jewelry, created by local Laguna Beach artisans.  It's wonderful to sip a glass

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-6627730468194455682010-07-30T16:46:00.000-07:002010-07-30T16:46:34.307-07:00

Remember when Sandy & Danny sang the song "Those Summer Nights" in the show, "Grease"?  They conjured up images of hot, sweaty nights and plenty of icy drinks.  This came to mind when I recently bought a stamp set with the saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade, then drink up".  I found it in the dollar bin in JoAnn's.  Well, that one-dollar investment sparked my creative "juices" --

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-29289826089514579782010-06-06T10:17:00.000-07:002010-06-06T10:19:45.298-07:00

Yes, another school year is coming to an end...the kids are counting down the days while Moms are getting their last "chillaxing" time in while they can before the pool party schlepping begins. If you're feeling the end-of-the-school year crunch, and you're still wondering what to give your child's teacher, here is one more idea. Using your child's class photo and a quick trip to the Dollar

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-69500378376134205312010-05-31T14:31:00.000-07:002010-05-31T14:34:06.892-07:00

For those of you who live in the San Fernando Valley area, I want to let you know that I am hosting three workshops in June featuring altered art projects which will make great teacher gifts.  Either come by yourself or with a friend, or bring your child and make your gift together -- your choice.    The cost includes all materials and supplies you need to complete your project.  YOU choose the

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-48767881757580507392010-05-21T12:31:00.000-07:002010-05-21T12:36:12.545-07:00

Growing up, I shared a tiny half-bathroom with two brothers.  We did have a full bathroom downstairs that was for everyone's use, especially when it was time for the daily shower or bath.  We made do with this 1-1/2 bathroom arrangement.  After all, we didn't have a choice! So I think that our two daughters are fortunate to share one full bathroom with two sinks just between the two of them. 

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-48035606653113791872010-05-10T16:42:00.000-07:002010-05-12T17:52:30.963-07:00

What do you get when you cross a garden party with altered art?  One of my Altered Artworks workshops, of course!  Last week, four crafty women came over in desperate need of creative therapy.  And that's exactly what they got--three hours of schmoozing with old and new friends, delicious snacks, and most of all, uninterrupted art time.  From my vast array of scrapbook paper, metal charms,

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-16831346525010024152010-04-26T10:14:00.000-07:002010-04-26T10:14:07.305-07:00

"I went to a garden party to reminisce with my old friends..."  Just the other day, I heard Ricky Nelson's 1972 hit on the radio, which gave me the inspiration for this art project and post.  Planting flowers and vegetables seems to be the "in" thing to do in my neighborhood.  In fact, my next door neighbors have a wonderful garden right in front of their house with everything from kale to

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-80924178762691479372010-04-07T15:37:00.000-07:002010-04-07T15:37:01.342-07:00

We just love when Elysa is home for spring break -- it's so nice to spend time together, and catch up on her busy college life.   That is, when she's not sleeping til noon!  Anyway, our little Scottish Terrier, Coconut, decided to sleep in Elysa's room all week.  He knows a good thing when he sees one!  Is Kaylee jealous? Yeah, just a little...  And speaking of spring, here in Los Angeles, we

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-77998044718194432132010-03-16T14:39:00.000-07:002010-03-16T15:11:46.055-07:00

Ahhh! The first sip of my afternoon latte tastes so good. It's just what I need to get me through the afternoon, a kick-start to the second half of my day.Do you have a daily liquid indulgence? Maybe a mocha or Americano? Or a delicious, exotic green tea? Whether it's a non-fat, iced grande, extra foamy cappuccino, straight-up cup o' Joe, or your favorite tea, do you feel guilty splurging on this

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-59651810302437129982010-02-05T11:45:00.000-08:002011-11-10T11:59:24.206-08:00

How did I turn that into this?  Here's the story:  A few years ago, we replaced the shoddy, water-damaged wood shutters in our den.  I couldn't just toss out these worn out window coverings, so I stuck them up in the attic.  Recently, one of my crafty friends came over.  We tried to think of something unique to alter.  It was then that I remembered the old shutters I had stored away.  Well, one

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-25210534379988468422010-01-30T22:02:00.000-08:002011-01-27T16:24:25.388-08:00

How do I love thee?  Let me count the ways -- with altered art of course!  There are so many creative ways to say "I love you" -- especially with candy!  Whether it's chocolate kisses you crave, candy hearts, jelly bellies, always tasty m&m's or old-fashioned cinnamon hearts, I'd like to share a few of my ideas on ways you can package sweet treats for the special people in your life.  The first

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-39441256691758933162010-01-26T17:59:00.000-08:002010-01-26T17:59:34.779-08:00

With all this rain we are having in Southern California, I decided it's a perfect time to stay inside and organize my acrylic paint collection.  I mean, how many tubes of "French Blue" does a girl really need?   So, before I tossed the almost-empty jars out, I lined them up for one quick photo. Say Cheese!  That's Swiss Cheese Yellow, of course!  Now that I have my paint scaled back and organized

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-84181189569437243412010-01-17T10:42:00.000-08:002010-01-17T10:42:25.286-08:00

On our new year's vacation, we strolled up and down Oxnard's downtown shopping corridor in search of great cafes and good bargains. I found both! After sipping a delicious latte on an outdoor patio, I happened upon a busy thrift shop. In less than a minute, I found this sad-looking wooden box marked down to $1.50, with its original store tag still attached. Well, I couldn't exactly leave it

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-65023546708516429302010-01-05T17:06:00.000-08:002010-01-05T23:06:47.368-08:00

What would a new year be without a few resolutions? After a wonderful 3-day get-together with close friends to bring in 2010, it's time to pack away the holiday decorations and clean the wax out from the menorahs. I really do not want to find this year's wax next year! Or is it last year's wax this year? Whichever the case, it is time to begin the year anew. Living in Southern California, it is

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-32197001348165322602009-12-18T10:50:00.000-08:002009-12-18T11:17:50.725-08:00

So here it is...the countdown to 2010--a new decade. Weren't we just celebrating the New Millennium? Do you think time is just marching on while we go through the motions? That is why I am hosting one more altered art workshop this year -- a time to relax, have fun, and create some last-minute gifts. And I'll even whip up a batch of spirited eggnog.You are also in for another treat: Elysa is home

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-64374299096226569822009-11-28T15:09:00.000-08:002009-11-28T22:16:40.480-08:00

Turkey sandwich, anyone?  I didn't think so.  Then think desserts.  How about some scrumptious chocolate chip cookies?  Blueberry blintzes?  You bake it -- we'll eat it!  Come share your favorite appetizer or dessert  while we eat and craft our way through the holidaze season.  My annual holiday workshops begin this Friday, December 4 and will continue through December 20. Do you have people on

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-9460666883108125402009-11-09T10:53:00.000-08:002009-11-10T18:52:33.733-08:00

Now that Halloween decorations have been put away, it's time to direct our attention to the upcoming December celebrations.  Even though they are still several weeks away, the holiday boutiques have already begun.  For those of you who want to actually see and touch the altered artworks projects, stop by this Sunday, November 15, at Temple Shomrei Torah's Holiday Boutique in West Hills.  I will

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-53503802742768431922009-10-30T07:57:00.000-07:002009-11-09T11:56:14.908-08:00

I want to welcome those of you who are new to my blog!   This is the place I share photos and details of the altered art projects available for you to make at my Altered Artwork Workshops.  Here is a photo of Alice, one of my "regulars" showing off two of her clipboard projects!  As always, the choice of colors, papers and embellishments is up to you so you can create a unique piece! You are

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-23726481263923757932009-10-20T15:59:00.000-07:002009-10-30T09:23:12.420-07:00

Some call it arts & crafts.  Others say it's time well spent.  I call it creative therapy. Whatever the name, Altered Artworks provides workshops in a warm, creative environment, giving you the opportunity to awaken your creative muse.  With our busy lives going in many directions at the same time, pause to treat yourself to some creative therapy. Choose from a variety of altered art projects:

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-51637011019905160052009-09-27T10:15:00.000-07:002009-09-27T21:20:33.092-07:00

There's nothing more relaxing than a lazy Sunday morning sipping my delicious "King's Road" coffee using my favorite mug, while still in my pj's at 10:30! What a perfect time to update my blog.If you are like me, you have zillions (is that really a number?) of photos that you are planning to organize -- one day! Well, until that "one day" comes around, here is an easy way to keep and display

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-64878198435251113622009-09-07T20:08:00.000-07:002009-09-07T21:01:31.465-07:00

I want to share with you my newest clipboard set, personalized for Elysa's boss at Handbago.com. Kris is so sweet - she dropped off Elysa last week and wanted to meet "the family behind the intern". We got to talking about the creation of her company and wound up discussing ways I can market mine!As a thank you, I altered a clipboard using the colors of Handbago.com: black and white with a hint

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-88180101775238843682009-08-20T09:31:00.000-07:002009-08-20T14:17:05.927-07:00

Day 2 - Hey, I can get used to this! Here is a photo of one of my favorite altered artwork pieces from the clipboard ensemble. Using fun cherry-theme designer papers, this clipboard measures 6" x 9" and comes with two pads of lined paper. The clipboard is embellished with coordinating ribbons, flowers, buttons and a personalized tag. It easily fits into your handbag or tote. Need to make a

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954687020195693030.post-64914324634873030612009-08-19T17:31:00.000-07:002009-08-19T17:39:43.504-07:00

Day 1Today started like every other day: wake up the kids, walk the dog, eat a piping bowl of nutritious oatmeal, and then put my chauffeur cap on to take the girls to their respective summer jobs. Then it happened. Elysa sat me down and said, "Mom, you need to create your own blog!" Well, I can never resist her adorable face, especially since she has slightly puffed cheeks from her wisdom

Doreenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11714898440122482388noreply@blogger.com2