Sushipot

Betty's Valentines

2012-02-14T08:49:00.005-06:00

I've been saving these handmade Valentines for months with the intention of sharing them with you today. Each of the darling cards are inscribed to a girl named Betty--I'm thinking she must have saved them from a class party many years ago. Lucky for me she did as they are now a special part of my ephemera collection. My hands-down favorite is the clown Valentine but that anthropomorphic heart comes a close second. May you and your Valentine(s) have a very special day together!

Arranging Junk

2012-02-13T12:53:00.001-06:00

Assorted rusty furniture wheels

Old photo print blocks

Chippy door hinges

I spent a lot of time this weekend sorting and arranging junk (errrr...found objects) for the vintage shop. More to come 'cuz I've got boxes 'n bins full of random goodness just waiting to be shared with you.

Spring-y Collage Blocks

2012-02-11T14:40:00.002-06:00

Butterflies, flowers, birds, bunnies 'n eggs--all sorts of Spring-y type images for this new round of collage blocks. Enjoy!

Grey Garden

2012-02-09T00:31:00.001-06:00

Smock de Meule by Mother

When dreary weather calls for inspiration it's time to make a treasury! The fabulous Yokoo opened her new shop, Mother, earlier this week so I had to include my latest object of desire--the Smock de Meule. I don't think I've ever considered wearing a smock before but now I have this insatiable urge to wear this one. If I owned it I think I might wear it every day...it would become my uniform of sorts. Let's just say I love Mother! Oh...and be sure to take a look at my entire treasury, Grey Garden.

Landscape Stripes

2012-02-06T21:03:00.003-06:00

We've been enjoying a new addition to our collection of art objects, Landscape Stripes, a delicate collage by the lovely artist Joy Patrice O'Brien. I'm loving every little detail about it--from it's geometric overtones to the pencil markings and (of course!) the tattered book page. For now, it's nestled on top of our front room bookshelves as I've quite used up my quota of allotted nail holes in our rental house. The whole 'leaning' look is growing on me as a result.

1920's Valentine Scraps

2012-02-01T20:15:00.001-06:00

First off I just wanna know where the heck the month of January went?! Did it completely pass you by too? I was still recovering from the holidays and then realized the month was over. Guess I'd better get it in gear (mentally speaking) at least. It's been kinda hard with the weirdly warm winter 'round these parts. The bank sign on the way to the post office today stated it was 66 degrees!

I did have grand plans to make up a whole bunch of Valentine-y ornaments and such for the shops but with 2 weeks 'till that special day I'm behind on those plans. I did manage to purchase these charming Valentine scraps to use in the pieces, but I think they will be added to the ephemera files for next year. These particular scraps were manufactured by the Carrington Company of Chicago, Illinois circa 1920's. Super sweet paper bits aren't they?

Happy February all!

Embossed Alphabet Blocks

2012-01-31T11:31:00.002-06:00

Playing with blocks never gets old to me and luckily I've got a job that enables this tendency quite a bit. I really enjoy photographing handsome objects such as this set of beautifully embossed alphabet blocks. I've kinda been drooling over the varied patinas on each surface so I thought I'd share several of sides of 'em.

Jill's Journey

2012-01-26T21:39:00.001-06:00

An adventurous little piece was posted in the shop today. Jill's Journey is making me wonder if I've read Little Toot one too many times?

Chaos Theory

2012-01-26T21:03:00.002-06:00

Chaos Theory, collage on found (scribbled) box top

Filling Drawers

2012-01-24T22:50:00.004-06:00

Remember this metal cabinet I recently claimed for my studio? Thought you'd like to see the drawers are now filled up with inventory and a few of my rotating vintage collections. I didn't realize when we brought it home that each drawer slides out and removes easily--like those old school card catalog files in the library. This drawer-removal feature makes it super handy to quickly make up game parts and game ephemera packets for the vintage shop. All this stuff used to be stored in plastic totes, stacked on a shelf which worked ok but this is even spiffier and more efficient.

Doll House no 373 & 374

2012-01-20T11:28:00.001-06:00

Doll House no 373 (with heart)

Doll House no 374 (with heart)

I've been gleaning my collection of old physiology textbooks for anatomical hearts. A couple of new doll houses (with hearts of course!) are in the shop. Valentine's Day is 'round the corner folks!

Prickly Plaques

2012-01-18T12:34:00.005-06:00

A fresh batch of anatomical prickly plaques are in the shop today.

The Oz Adventures

2012-01-16T22:10:00.002-06:00

Last night Patrick and Lizzie finished reading the 14th book of the original series of Oz books by L. Frank Baum. They had begun the series this past summer and have continued reading a few chapters together every night. Today was Patrick's birthday and we celebrated with a fitting journey to the Oz Museum. They've now decided they will delve into more Oz adventures by reading the additional canonical books which I believe total a whopping 40+ volumes (thank goodness for Amazon Prime!).

And to Patrick....I just want to say thank you for instilling such a love of reading and adventure in our girl....Happy Birthday!

TAKE

2012-01-13T14:57:00.002-06:00

Why thank you...I believe I will take this old-school metal cabinet full of practical drawers. It could be more than useful to me and I will fill its drawers with all kinds of goodies (or inventory). Hmmmm...we shall see....rearranging the studio sounds like a fun weekend project to me.

Thrifted Zippers

2012-01-12T20:28:00.009-06:00

Thrifted zippers anyone? Thought you might enjoy some retro zipper eye candy this evening!

Veggies, Shells & 'Shrooms

2012-01-09T22:20:00.003-06:00

I've been saving some of the best-est illustration plates from this French dictionary. Well...maybe I was tempted to hold onto them myself but have now posted them for sale in the spirit of freshening up the vintage shop for the new year. You can browse the available selection right here and I plan to post more throughout the week.

Collage Block Preview

2012-01-07T00:02:00.005-06:00

The very first selection of Sushipot Art Blocks for the new year will be posted in the shop later on today. A handful of Valentiney ones are sprinkled in (I know...already!). Send me a message if you'd like one reserved...first-come, first-serve!

Crewelwork Sampler

2012-01-06T11:53:00.000-06:00

My favorite-est birthday gift, presented by Patrick, was this unfinished sampler of different crewelwork stitches. Does he know me well or what?! Eventually we'll have it framed up, needle and all--the growing pile of "art to be framed one day" is another story. For now, I've rearranged the inspiration boards in my studio and have hung it front and center. It's a mesmerizing muse and color palette of stitchery for the new year.

Resolution: Time

2012-01-03T15:06:00.002-06:00

With the onset of the new year comes the chatter of resolutions being made and much advice on how to keep them. I go back and forth each year on whether to set to paper (or blog) a resolution or goal for the year. In truth, I'm making resolutions all the time, setting little goals for myself and marking off the milestones I make in life and business. As I've mentioned before I'm a dutiful list maker to an obsessive degree.

So this year, in lieu of a list of resolutions, I've decided to take to heart a word/theme/sound I've been mulling over lately and that is TIME. You know....tick-tock.....tick-tock.....tick-tock....in all its forms! As I come up for air after such a busy season in my shops I want to rein it in, slow it down and embrace it. I want to name those things that fritter it away and spend it wisely. Kind of like the day back when Lizzie was only two and we decided to throw away our television permanently! I want that feeling of freedom again--the gift of time--time to live, time to love, time to read, time to create, time to savor all those little things that sprinkle our days.

In order to be more mindful of my time and how I spend it I'm starting by identifying those little "time thieves" in my day and deciding on which ones can stay and which must go and what I should cut back on. No...I'm not planning to do anything rash like throw out my iPhone, but I will cut back on how many minutes of attention it receives!

One big decision that I've wavered on is whether or not I need/should post here on my blog every week-day as I've tried my best to do for the last couple of years. Even though it may only take a few minutes of each day to create a post, there is much brain-time spent mulling over what to post and time spent keeping up with the extra photographing that is involved. Looking back to my pre-blog days I can see I had a bit more studio time and that is what I crave. So...my first little experiment with TIME in 2012 is to scale back here in this virtual space. I'm thinkin' 2-3 posts a week as opposed to 5 or 6. I know all of you artist/maker readers will understand and I thank you for reading what I think is my longest rant (errrr.....post) ever and feel free to call me out if you see me frittering my time away here or Twitter or Instagram or even (oh the tragedy!) on Etsy.

All mixed media collage images by Suzanna Scott, 2007 & 2009

Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T00:12:00.003-06:00

A Happy New Year to you! We welcomed in 2012 with a family game night--complete with Operation, Bananagrams, Spot It, Hedbanz, Gobblet and Blink. How did you celebrate?

Merry & Happy

2011-12-23T14:53:00.008-06:00

I picked up these handmade Christmas paper dolls earlier in the year at Miss Pickles Attic and have been saving them for a special day to share with you. The elfish looking Santa and sweet holly leaf girl along with a few of their cousins are part of our holiday decor this year.

Looking back on 2011 I have so much to be thankful for and smack at the top of the list is my gratitude for each Sushipot patron and blog reader. Thank you for supporting me and my family this year. Patrick, Lizzie and I send you wishes for a Merry Holiday and a Happy Christmas wherever you may be and however you may celebrate.

And for now I say adieu...I'll see you in the New Year!

The Late Thirties

2011-12-22T22:47:00.003-06:00

So am I officially in my "late thirties" now? According to Patrick and Lizzie I am! Oh well...I'm going to embrace it and say being 37 is g-r-e-a-t! I've been showered with lots of birthday surprises and phone calls from family near and far AND Patrick made me his best red velvet cake ever. He makes one for me every year on my birthday but this one topped all the rest. I mean it was perfection. Excuse me while I go sneak another slice....

Pops Of Color

2011-12-21T21:04:00.004-06:00

New pops of color in the vintage shop this week including some old school tin clickers (great for that New Year's Eve party!) and another set of color cubes.

The Bargain Barrel

2011-12-19T21:22:00.006-06:00

The Bargain Barrel is a hidden gem for thrifter's here in Manhattan, Kansas. It's a small, second hand shop off the beaten path but is always chock-ful of surprises. You never know what you'll find among their varied selection and I have never left empty-handed or more realistically with an empty trunk!

It's family-owned and family-run by a father/daughter team, Phil Petty and Kelsey Currie (how cool is that?). In fact I learned that Kelsey is one of my loyal blog readers (*waves at Kelsey*) the last time I stopped in a couple weeks ago. She keeps the place in tip-top shape and has everything organized with fun labels so it's a pleasure to browse.

And...I cannot mention The Bargain Barrel without introducing Chicken, the shop's cat-in-residence. Chicken was adopted as a kitten when she was found in the dumpster at a nearby Kentucky Fried Chicken. She's such a friendly-lickin' cat and adds character to the shop--there's even a sign on the front door warning customers that Chicken likes to lick (see first photo)!

I've amassed quite a collection of vintage beads which I love using in pieces like The Circus Wagon.

The glass cabinets are always fully stocked with vintage and antique treasures at very reasonable prices.

If you collect vinyls, this is definitely a place to browse. We even picked up some old records for our antique Victrola on a recent visit.

A couple of the aisles are stocked with random hardware, tools and old objects of interest. You know....the kind of stuff that appeals to assemblage artists.

Speaking of hidden treasures, this fun floral print was lining the drawer of a old wooden cubby. I resisted but it was kinda hard. Patrick says "NO MORE FURNITURE"!

A jar 'o buttons on the front counter. Need I say more?

Drool. Love the graphics. I may have to go back and get the Tiddly Winks 'cuz I keep thinking of that cute clown with his polka dot suit.

So....if you've lost your marbles or if your passing through The Little Apple be sure to stop in The Bargain Barrel and see what hidden treasures are waiting for you!

Caution: Reindeer

2011-12-16T19:28:00.001-06:00

There's been a crafty craze of reindeer in these parts. I was greeted with this caution sign yesterday afternoon when I ventured out of the studio. Since then an entire herd of these candy cane reindeer has been spotted roaming the house and making their way into packages for loved ones near and far. And below....another version of reindeer and candy cane craftiness. Someone's been busy!

My Kiva Resolution

2011-12-14T08:52:00.001-06:00

About this time every year I start to think about the resolutions I didn't follow through with from the previous New Year. But this December I'm here to report to you that I've carried out my resolution from last year to make a Kiva loan every month (although I hate to admit my other resolutions didn't fair as well!).

Kiva's mission as a non-profit organization is to connect people from all over the world together through lending with the goal of alleviating poverty. The best part is you can get involved for a minimum loan of just $25.00! This year I've lent to a baker in Iraq, a weaver in the Philippines (her picture above), a stone carver in Kenya and a bee keeper in Armenia (see first photo) just to name a few of the diverse countries and sectors represented on the site.

Once you start lending you can track the progress of each loan and get all kinds of basic stats and regular loan status updates via email. As you can see I tended to loan mostly to others in the Arts but was quite diverse when it came to where I made each loan.

The experience has been rewarding in so many ways and I've decided to double up this coming year and pledge 2 loans a month. Running a small business has its challenges each and every day and this is definitely a way to pay forward those opportunities that I've been given through my own small business. I've attached a short video from Kiva above--it illustrates how one small loan can help to make a huge difference in another persons life.

Happy 7th Birthday

2011-12-13T00:57:00.004-06:00

Happy 7th Birthday Lizzie!
We've enjoyed every snippet of time spent with you
this past year and look forward to a new one.
We love you.

xoxo,
Mommy & Daddy

Still Time To Shop!

2011-12-12T20:53:00.001-06:00

There's still time to shop at Sushipot and Sushipot Parts if you live within the United States. I'm offering free shipping at Sushipot and this coupon is still valid at Sushipot Parts. Anything you order at either shop between now and December 20th will be automatically upgraded to Priority Mail via USPS to ensure you receive your goodies by Christmas Eve. And...thought you may wanna to know that I'm still working on my shopping list too...we still have plenty of time!

Dad's Office Decor

2011-12-09T15:22:00.002-06:00

Lizzie has made sure that Patrick's office at school is properly decked out for the holidays. He's more a 'glass half empty' sort of guy thus the Charlie Brown tree!

Lights 'round the white board and a Dr. Suessian-like tree drawn by Lizzie. By the way, all her drawings of xmas trees this year have only ONE ornament..."just like Dad's". ha ha ha!

No...they didn't consume 13 boxes of candy canes. Those happen to be for Patrick's lucky students but...

....they did get crafty and turn some into candy cane reindeer!

Happy weekend all :)

PS: A big thank you to Patrick for the Hipstamatic photos.

Holiday Collage Blocks

2011-12-09T10:50:00.005-06:00

Grab 'em while you can! New holiday collage blocks posted in the shop this morning. I'm thinking this may be the last round of these for the season--we shall see.

A Quirky Christmas

2011-12-07T20:44:00.004-06:00

Holiday Star Urchin Ornament by kissa design

Rudolf Reindeer Spool Ornament by Jannee Lookerse

Have yourself a quirky little Christmas! A treasury of some favorite things for the holidays. Isn't that paper star urchin amazing?

Vintage Toy Love

2011-12-06T12:12:00.003-06:00

Collection of Tin Toy Shovels

This is just a sampling of the vintage toy goodness currently available at Sushipot Parts. And...for the love of vintage toys I want to offer YOU a special coupon code which can be redeemed on any of these lovelies between now and Christmas Eve.

20% Coupon Code:
VINTAGETOYLOVE

Collection of Tin Toy Saucers

Tin Toy Drums

Color Cubes by The Embossing Company

Collection of Junior Elf Books

Tin Wedding Tray by The Ohio Art Company

Alphabet Blocks by Halsam

The Star Paint Box

December Daze

2011-12-05T21:01:00.002-06:00

Gosh, I've sure been sporadic in this bloggy space--it's kinda the name of the game right now. We had a record breaking day of sales on Sunday and have been scrambling to get it all out the door and on its way 'round the world. Seriously fun to ship to the United Kingdom, Israel, Switzerland, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and over a dozen US states in a 24 hour period! Thank you to all of you wonderful Sushipot patrons! Before all this ensued we did attend our local Christmas parade and enjoyed many a Christmas story. Now back to the studio...!

A Marshmallow World

2011-12-01T19:50:00.006-06:00

Patrick got this song stuck in his head last week and has been going around singing it so often now its looping 'round in my head too! Thought I'd share it with you so you can join in my fun. Oh...and having a song stuck up there without knowing all the lyrics drives me batty so in case you're like me here ya go:

A Marshmallow World
by Dean Martin

It's a marshmallow world in the winter
When the snow comes to cover the ground
It's the time for play, it's a whipped cream day
I wait for it the whole year round.

Those are marshmallow clouds being friendly
In the arms of the evergreen trees
And the sun is red like a pumpkin head
It's shining so your nose won't freeze.

The world is your snowball, see how it grows
That's how it goes whenever it snows
The world is your snowball just for a song
Get out and roll it along

It's a yum-yummy world made for sweethearts
Take a walk with your favorite girl
It's a sugar date, what if spring is late
In winter it's a marshmallow world.

Happy December y'all!

Christmas Art Blocks

2011-11-30T22:53:00.003-06:00

One more batch of Christmas-y art blocks are being posted in the shop this evening. Enjoy!

A Christmas Assemblage

2011-11-30T00:21:00.001-06:00

We really got into the holiday spirit over the long weekend. All the totes with decorations were pulled out of storage, we set up the tree and unearthed the Christmas books 'n movies that stay packed up 'till this time of year.

I'm guessing that reading several versions of "The Night Before Christmas" spilled over into my studio time and this candy-cane striped shadowbox assemblage, Over The Rooftops, materialized.

Also, I want to say thank you to each and every one of you who shopped my Holiday Sale over the weekend. It was a huge success and I promise to have all the packages on their way later today!

Sushipot's Holiday Sale

2011-11-24T21:10:00.005-06:00

Yep...I'm having a Holiday Sale at both of my shops folks! Here are the pertinent details:

Sushipot's Holiday Sale
Nov 24th (now!) through Nov 29th
20% off your entire order
Both shops: Sushipot & Sushipot Parts
Coupon Code: HAPPYHOLIDAYS

And don't forget....FREE shipping worldwide continues at Sushipot through January 1st.

Happy Holidays & happy shopping y'all!

Happy Turkey Day!

2011-11-24T00:27:00.001-06:00

Happy Turkey Day to all you celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States and a Happy 24th of November to those of you 'round the world! I'm hoping this fine bird makes its way through the day with his gobbler intact. He was such a friendly fellow and even posed for this portrait the day we visited his farm.

Our holiday repast will exclude any meat dishes this year as Patrick and I gave up meat for a week long challenge back in the Spring and have not eaten any since (yeah, I can't believe it either). This year it's turning into somewhat of a carb-fest (ie, double servings of hash brown casserole please!) as neither of us are taken with the idea of consuming faux meat.

But...our yearly tradition of crafting a fruit turkey will carry on. It was always a fun memory for me growing up and we've been making them with Lizzie every year--this one is from two years ago and boy has she grown (Lizzie not the turkey!).

And what am I thankful for this year? Well, I'm still trying to top last years list of family thanks: treasure boxes, coffee, Apple Inc, and paper chains. Life is good!

You & Omega

2011-11-23T14:19:00.009-06:00

Popping in to give a shout out to my awesome Team Omega over on Etsy! If you're looking to support independent artists this season, these folks have a lot of talent and some crazy cool gift ideas. Take a peek at my treasury YOU & Omega or browse our list of Omega members.

New Holiday Art Blocks

2011-11-21T22:26:00.006-06:00

A new batch of holiday art blocks are in the shop tonight. That's what I was doing making such a mess. Grab 'em while you can folks--they're flying out faster than Santa's reindeer!

Work In Progress

2011-11-18T20:10:00.004-06:00

So much work in progress around here! This is what my studio looked like for most of the week and that's just a tiny portion of it. I started to feel kinda crrrazzzzzzzzy last night and cleaned it up a bit. And now its time to do it all over again....you see that coffee cup don't you?!

1955 Noah's Ark Toy Catalog

2011-11-17T21:43:00.005-06:00

Toy catalogs that arrive in the mailbox these days are full of slick pages and glossy photographs. When I came across this treasure on newsprint I had to add it to my ephemera collection. The catalog is from Noah's Ark department stores, Christmas 1955. Thought you'd enjoy browsing a few of its pages. Of course my favorite page has got to be the one with the doll house and tea sets! Just click on each image to enlarge and read--and, if you feel like reminiscing through more toys from the 1950's here is another catalog I shared last season.

I'm Dreaming...

2011-11-16T00:04:00.003-06:00

White Half Apron at The Elms Vintage

...of a vintage Christmas! Between Etsy's amazing selection of vintage wonders and Pandora's endless supply of nostalgic holiday tunes I'm all about celebrating the season in a old fashioned way. How about you?

More Holiday Blocks

2011-11-14T23:41:00.003-06:00

Guess what I've been working on? That's right...more holiday art blocks...'cuz it's that time of year folks!

French Embroidery Rings

2011-11-14T10:27:00.002-06:00

I used up a few more tidbits from this booklet of French embroidery patterns. Instead of brooches, this time I created a handful of over- sized rings. Aren't they festive? I think so.

Random Bouquets

2011-11-11T19:34:00.007-06:00

A few random bouquets from 'round the studio this week. And...don't miss Etsy's latest "There's No Place Like Here" installment featuring the Liberty Tool Company. Adding to my list of "places to visit if I ever happen to be in Maine". Happy weekend all!

Triangle Trees

2011-11-10T20:47:00.003-06:00

Yes, I've blogged these old color cubes by The Embossing Company before. I'm always on the look out for more of these as they are such a unique design toy and they never sit around collecting dust in the shop. I did something different with this latest group and created several mini sets of 6 cubes. Now you can create your own little red 'n white triangle tree for the holidays.

Are You Blue?

2011-11-08T20:43:00.005-06:00

With all the rain we've had in the last 24 hours I was feelin' a bit blue...so what to do? Make a treasury of course! Isn't this antique lace amazing? I don't think I could ever remove its tattered blue paper backing though. Hoping to wake up to sunshine tomorrow 'cuz I've got new goodies to photograph. If you've got a minute go peek at the entire "Are You Blue?" treasury.

Hand-sewn Lace on paper at Mushroom And Moss

Are You Blue? by Suzanna Scott

Festive Art Blocks

2011-11-07T21:10:00.003-06:00

The second round of festive art blocks for the holidays are in the shop tonight.

More Building Blocks

2011-11-07T11:10:00.001-06:00

More architectural building blocks in the vintage shop this morning. These are definitely more on the neutral side of the color spectrum than this set I blogged a few months ago. Finding these treasures makes me happy. Enjoy!

Blanket Of Leaves

2011-11-04T15:56:00.001-05:00

The wind has been blowin' here in Kansas since I took these pictures earlier in the week. Now we're enjoying this blanket of leaves outside our back door. I'm thinking a few brisk walks are in order over the weekend so we can crunch through all the pretty leaves 'round the neighborhood.

Build-A-Picture Puzzle

2011-11-02T12:18:00.002-05:00

Not sure how to describe this fun, build-your-own-picture with miniature pixel-like blocks vintage puzzle toy, but I guess this longish description will work since there are no markings whatsoever on the packaging. It's such a neat set and is in pristine condition which is always a plus with vintage finds like these. So...if you're in need of a gift for a creative type person on your list this year you can be sure they would love this build-your-own-picture with miniature pixel-like blocks vintage puzzle toy!

Festive Ornaments

2011-11-01T00:22:00.002-05:00

Happy November! It's full speed ahead towards Christmas 2011 'round here. As promised, a fresh selection of festive ornaments for the season are available in the shop. Just checked and there are only 53 more days until Christmas. I may be a bit scarce in these parts between now and then--just sayin'!

Our Dorothy Gale

2011-10-31T21:41:00.009-05:00

Boooo....

2011-10-31T12:31:00.002-05:00

....someone has been practicing their very scariest voice all weekend! Our pumpkins are carved, a massive amount of candy has been purchased and one Dorothy Gale costume has been pressed 'n starched. We're ready for tonight folks! Are you?

Harlequin Alphabet Blocks

2011-10-28T10:53:00.001-05:00

This has got to be one of my most favorite alphabet block finds ever! You can't go wrong with a primitive, peachy-pink 'n black harlequin style alphabet block set. Believe me--this folksy set is u-n-i-q-u-e and obviously created with much love. You can take a closer peek at it right here in the shop.

Doll House no 372

2011-10-27T21:07:00.005-05:00

Doll House no 372 (with ribcage)

She's dressed up as a skeleton just in time for Día de los Muertos folks!

Just Relax

2011-10-26T22:09:00.005-05:00

Bohemian Patchwork Quilt, at RobertaGrove

I've been telling myself to "just relax" quite a lot during these busy autumn days. So...I did just that and put together an Autumnal treasury of some recent Etsy favorites of mine. Enjoy!

California Outtakes

2011-10-25T13:21:00.002-05:00

Thought I'd share a few outtakes from our trip to California last weekend. It was fun to meet up with old friends and family and make some new ones too! The wedding went off without a hitch, Lizzie had the time of her life being a flower girl, we ate a lot of good food and we now lovingly refer to Los Angeles as Lost Angeles (which we were more than once!). As Eeyore would say....the weekend was full of "merriment and what-not"!

Los Angeles Love

2011-10-19T12:56:00.001-05:00

Los Angeles, City Heart Map by Kevin Lucias

We're flying out to Los Angeles tomorrow for a very important occasion. My big brother Andy is getting married on Saturday to a super nice lady (hi Mindy!!). The wedding is taking place on a boat (how cool is that?!) and Lizzie is beside herself with excitement as she gets to participate as a flower girl. Needless to say, things will be a bit quiet around here 'till we return but you can always follow along via my Instagram feed. Can you feel the love?!

Chippy Paint

2011-10-17T11:05:00.003-05:00

Raise your hand if you have a thing for chippy paint! I know I do and from the looks of it so does my Instagram-ing spouse Patrick (aka elasticity). Thought you'd enjoy his collection of images documenting peeling paint that adorns decaying facades in and around Manhattan, Kansas.

Vintage Puzzle Ornaments

2011-10-13T21:13:00.002-05:00

Lizzie and I picked out this teal tinsel Christmas tree for the studio (cuz we're feelin' super festive 'round here!) and its turned out to be a useful photo prop too. These delightfully retro puzzle piece ornaments will be sprinkled into the vintage shop throughout the next few days. And...if you're wanting your own tinsel tree to decorate I bought it here but please don't tell Lizzie they have it in hot pink too!

Britt's Garden Acres

2011-10-11T10:59:00.002-05:00

Last Friday was a fabulous (and blusterous as Lizzie kept saying!) Autumn day. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Britt's Garden Acres and managed to fill up our car with a great variety of pumpkins and gourds. Don't think we've ever had so many in one season before. In addition to pumpkin picking--we petted the farm animals (Patrick got a few too many pecks in a variety of places!), braved the corn maze and survived a bumpy hayride. A totally successful Fall day if I do say so myself!

2011 Holiday Art Blocks

2011-10-09T21:45:00.005-05:00

The first collection of this year's holiday art blocks will be making their way into the shop this week...starting tonight! I've been collecting festive ephemera all year long and it's fun to finally put it to good use. If you see a collage block here that you just have to have shoot me a message via Etsy conversations and I'll be happy to reserve it for you. Can you hear those jingle bells approaching?! I swear my studio is beginning to resemble Santa's workshop these days.

Happy Leaves

2011-10-07T11:36:00.006-05:00

Thought you'd enjoy this pair 'o happy leaves that Lizzie drew yesterday. We're getting ready to head out to a local farm in search of pumpkins and possibly a hayride. Happy Friday!

More Anatomy Plaques

2011-10-06T20:35:00.008-05:00

The quickly dwindling selection of anatomical prickly plaques has been replenished in the shop. You can view the current selection here. Yes...there is still time to add one of these to your Halloween decor!

Hanky Doll

2011-10-05T21:50:00.002-05:00

I was perusing Etsy late one night last week (totally unlike me I know!) and this charming little lady waved to me. Ohhhh, such a sweet n' folksy little hanky doll--I knew at once I must take a closer look. An even happier surprise to find she was created by Cali, an 11 year old middle schooler, who has set up her own Etsy shop with the encouragement of her Gramz, The Jewel Seeker. Cali has several more of these sweet hanky dolls in her shop, Cali Cakes Creations and I'm certain one will wave at you too!

French Dictionary Art Blocks

2011-10-03T00:13:00.002-05:00

This exquisite selection of imagery was gleaned from a 1923 French dictionary. Each illustration was carefully decoupaged onto a wooden block and voilà--new art blocks are in the shop. Enjoy!

Marimekko Sheet

2011-09-30T14:55:00.004-05:00

So excited to have snagged this vintage Marimekko sheet for Lizzie's bed from Aunt Sisters Picks on Etsy. The bold, floral graphics are soooo cheerful. Only problem is now it's kinda hard to get someone to make her bed--she really doesn't want to cover up the sheet!

Trios Of Tin

2011-09-28T09:52:00.004-05:00

A few trios of tin cups 'n pitchers were listed in the shop last night. I adore these tiny things and have so much fun arranging them into collections for you! Click here to view all available tin treasures at Sushipot Parts. Enjoy!

My Mom Story at Bloesem Kids

2011-09-26T11:07:00.004-05:00

How very exciting to wake up this morning to my Mom Story feature at Bloesem Kids! Thank you Tiffany for such a lovely interview and welcome to all of you wonderful Bloesem readers. Lizzie was/is pleased to play such a starring role as my sweet daughter--I guess she didn't have a choice 'cuz I sure wouldn't have a story to tell without her! You can take a peek at the interview right here. And...sending a Happy Birthday greeting to my own mom today!

Doll House no 371

2011-09-26T10:28:00.000-05:00

Doll House no 371, original mixed media assemblage

Prickly Ornaments

2011-09-25T19:49:00.007-05:00

I've decided to bring back my Prickly Ornaments for the 2011 holiday season! This first selection is a bit on the darker side of things but never fear--I'll be offering some with classic Christmas imagery very soon. Thought I'd start with these for those of you who would enjoy them as Halloween decor too.

Happy Fall Y'all

2011-09-23T13:09:00.001-05:00

I'm thrilled it actually feels like autumn today on this first official day of Fall--it's sunny, crisp and cool (ie, just perfect!). Aren't these the sweetest illustrations? They are from a grade school primer titled Friends, which was published in 1929 and illustrated by Marguerite Davis. Happy Fall Y'all!

Spoons & Clothespins

2011-09-22T22:19:00.001-05:00

Tin Spoons

Wooden Clothespins

A couple of old-school objects listed this week at Sushipot Parts. I picked up the tin spoons at a local antique shop and my Dad scored the clothespins at a yard sale in his neighborhood. Thanks Dad! Don't you just love their varied 'n weathered patinas?

Observing Squirrels

2011-09-21T15:14:00.003-05:00

Lizzie and I have been observing the squirrels on our recent walks and noticed they always seem to have an acorn in their mouths these days--gathering food for the winter months no doubt! She thought it would be handy if they had little baskets to carry on their tails. We spotted a bright red one scampering up the tree in our front yard this morning. He was a friendly fellow and even paused for a moment so we could take his picture!

Our Post Office

2011-09-20T12:22:00.002-05:00

Thank you everyone for making my art block BOGO sale a big success! All the sale packages have been shipped so if you're expecting one it should arrive very soon. Lizzie is such a little helper on our post office excursions several times a week. Chances are your package was personally deposited in the package drop by her! After the thousands of packages we've shipped via the USPS since opening our Etsy shop 5 years ago it's hard to believe that the post office is facing such financial straits. I for one wouldn't know what to do without them. Saw this article with some off-the-wall ideas to save the post office. And...not that I'd personally hurt from a 5 day delivery...I'd really feel for Jim, our postal carrier, every Monday with all that extra mail to sort 'n deliver.

BOGO Art Block Sale

2011-09-15T11:52:00.001-05:00

This coming Monday, September 19th marks my 5th year on Etsy! To celebrate this milestone and express my thanks to all of you loyal patrons I'm having a BOGO (buy one, get one free) sale on my collage art blocks. Here's how it works:

Fill up your Etsy shopping cart with Sushipot Art Blocks
Click "Other" as your form of payment
Submit your order
Wait for a new invoice via Paypal
Pay for your BOGO art blocks
Wait with anticipation for your new Sushipot goodies!

The sale begins now and will end at midnight on Monday.

Things Organized Neatly

2011-09-14T10:26:00.001-05:00

My grocery blocks were featured on Things Organized Neatly yesterday. Oh how I love this blog by Austin Radcliffe! Yes, I've raved of it before right here. But...there are a bunch of new folks 'round here so if you've never visited this site be prepared to be sucked into the TON mindset. In no time at all you'll find yourself tweaking 'n arranging all the objects that surround you. Now that I've piqued your interest, here is a great interview that Imprint did with Austin about his blog and you don't wanna miss this article the New York Times featured earlier this year. If you need more you can take a look back at other images of things I've organized neatly here, here, here, and here. Obsession I tell ya!

Put Out My Lights

2011-09-13T10:53:00.001-05:00

Put Out My Lights Carnival Sign at bellalulu

I have no idea what's involved in the carnival game "Put Out My Lights" but I do know it only cost a single dollar (and had some really cool signage to boot)! Anyhow, the sign inspired this collection of vintage objects from my Etsy favorites. Enjoy!

Doll House no 370

2011-09-12T11:58:00.001-05:00

Doll House no 370, original mixed media assemblage

Flying Kites

2011-09-09T11:30:00.001-05:00

Does anyone else feel like this week flew by a little too fast? Must be because we had a short week but still. Thought I'd share these Instagram pictures from last weekend. We had a perfect, windy day for flying kites and took full advantage. The kites sailed up, up, up without any effort on our part 'cept for the couple times Lizzie's fish kite took a nose dive.

Forceps

2011-09-07T22:55:00.005-05:00

Forceps, original collage on book cover

Trick-Or-Treating

2011-09-07T22:47:00.006-05:00

Better watch out...this mischievous pair is already Trick-Or-Treating.

Circus Wagon no 2

2011-09-06T11:16:00.002-05:00

Circus Wagon, mixed media assemblage

The original circus wagon I created earlier in the year was such a hit I decided to make version no 2. Of course it helped when I came across a broken toy tractor at an antique shop a couple weeks ago. The wheels were p-e-r-f-e-c-t circus-wagon-wheels and I knew it was meant to be.

Coulrophobia

2011-09-06T11:11:00.001-05:00

Coulrophobia, mixed media assemblage

K. This is what happens when I stay up way past my bedtime tinkering in the studio. Not cool for anyone who may suffer from a fear of clowns. Luckily (as you know) I do not! That said--I do hope this little trick-or-treater finds a new home quickly 'cuz quite frankly he's a little too creepy even for me!

Long Weekend

2011-09-02T14:28:00.004-05:00

Vintage metal skates by Marvel

We have a 3.5 day weekend starting right now! (Yay Labor Day!) Our plan is to work hard and play hard. Nothing better than that! How about you? What are your plans for the weekend? Hope its a good one for all of us. See you next Tuesday.

Embroidery Brooches

2011-09-01T12:01:00.001-05:00

Remember this old French embroidery book I shared with you a while back? I finally did something with it and created a handful of brooches embellished with snippets from its pages. Some are square and some round--you can take a closer look at 'em right here.

First Grade

2011-08-31T11:04:00.004-05:00

Lizzie officially started the first grade this week and photographic documentation was taken.

Anatomical Prickly Plaques

2011-08-30T22:49:00.006-05:00

And...more anatomical prickly plaques are in the shop for the upcoming Halloween season. Isn't that the most bizarre image of a figure in a chair? It came from an 1895 home health book and is some sort of first aid illustration.

Halloween Art Blocks

2011-08-29T10:11:00.000-05:00

Goblins, ghouls, jack 'o lanterns, haunted houses, trick-or-treating children, windy days, spider webs 'n fairies are taking over the shop. The first bunch 'o Halloween art blocks was added over the weekend. Enjoy!

Wabash Park Campground

2011-08-25T11:13:00.003-05:00

Our recent family reunion was held at the Wabash Park Campground & Retreat Center in Clay City, Indiana. We were all housed in a lovely new lodge but Patrick took time to wander the grounds and the kitchen. I thought he captured the campgrounds character beautifully with these images! For the record....I'm going to claim all credit for his addiction to Instagram and I'm beginning to think he may be a *bit* more addicted than me. Want more of this grungy goodness? Take a look at his entire portfolio when you get a chance.

Salesman Button Sampler

2011-08-23T11:11:00.002-05:00

This old salesman sampler of buttons 'n buckles has been sitting in my studio for months and was finally placed in the shop. I kinda had to come to terms with letting it go to a true button collector. As you know, I love, love, love me some buttons but I'm more the sifting, sorting type of "collector" who loves to play with them and use them in my own projects. Of course, the OCDish side of me wants to just sit and admire the beautiful neatness of these pages! The Patent Button Company of Waterbury, Connecticut was founded way back in 1876. I found some interesting history on the company while surfing the interwebs but I just gotta say--they sure set their salesmen up for success--didn't they?

Hello Friends

2011-08-22T10:43:00.001-05:00

Hello friends...I'm back! My end-'o-summer-bloggy-break ended up not turning out how it was supposed to but I'm guessin' that's life--right? The first half was absolutely wonderful. We took a road trip to Indiana last weekend to attend a family reunion/birthday party for my Grandma who is turning 90! She's the lovely lady in the above photo (that's my Dad inside the car). It was a fun trip and great to see aunts, uncles and cousins some of whom I haven't seen in waaaaaay too long. On the trip home we even squeezed in a quick stop at the Apple Wagon in Missouri where I found many, many new treasures for the studio and shops.

The second half of my break started off just fine with unpacking, laundry and getting organized around the studio and then....I got sick....ended up spending most of the week in bed. Friday I was back on my feet and 'cept for a darn cough things are looking much better now. We do have a lot on our plate this week with Patrick starting a new semester and a first grader starting first grade very soon (maybe next week now!)--oh, the beauty of homeschooling! So, that's what I've been up to. What have you been doing? Is summer officially over for you? Kids heading back to school? Speaking of kids--don't you just love my aunt's bobby socks in the photo?!

Ice Cream Break

2011-08-10T21:24:00.001-05:00

Ice Cream Cones by Lizzie (guess which one is for her!)

Hello all! I'm thinkin' I need an ice cream cone break and a bit of a blog break too. Summer is wrapping up soooo quickly 'round here. I'll be sure to stop in some point next week especially if I have new work to share. Take care of yourself and go indulge in an ice cream cone!

Luscious Lines

2011-08-09T14:46:00.003-05:00

Fresh'nd Aire Electric Fan, All The Best Vintage

Wishing you a breath of fresh air on yet another hot summer day. Take a peek these Luscious Lines, a collection of my recent Etsy favorites.

Circus Clown

2011-08-08T11:32:00.003-05:00

Yep...I'm still on a circus kick! Finished up this happy-unicyclin'-clown over the weekend. You can take a good look at him right here. Enjoy!

Granulated

2011-08-07T22:50:00.005-05:00

A new pirate-themed collage, Granulated, in the shop tonight.

Acme Building Blocks

2011-08-05T11:09:00.001-05:00

How about some architectural eye-candy this morning? This incredible set of building blocks was manufactured by Acme of Japan. Talk about color 'n detail! I'm especially loving the pops of hot pink and that front door is absolutely sweeeeet.

Vintage Watercolor Tins

2011-08-04T11:04:00.003-05:00

This slew of old lithographed watercolor tins was a lucky score on Ebay. I love thinking of all the pictures painted by kids (all grown up now) with these partially used cakes of paint! It was a pleasure to photograph these as a collection and put them together into smaller groupings which will make their way into the shop later on in the week.