Sneak Peeks

Hello Sweet Friends!

I am just feeling so incredibly excited this week that I can't hardly contain myself!  This Saturday night is the Yellow Dog Christmas show up at The Factory Art Studio (this is where my studio is located as well) and I have been decking the halls and crafting up some serious loot for your enjoyment!  I don't want to give it all away because you should seriously come check it out in person, but thought I would share a few sneak peeks........

Hello my silver love oh how I adore thee!  (can you see the massive pile of pillows back there?)

Man oh man am I getting excited!!!  There have been a few other exciting things happening around here too!       

You can check them out here:

I want to say a HUGH thank you to all of my friends and family.....you guys are just the best!  I know that I run around crazy and have very little free time and am not always the best communicator.  Thank you for backing me up, supporting this journey, and loving me always.  I love you too!

Darby xoxo

I AM.........

I am WEIRD because....

I have crazy dreams and talk A LOT in my sleep

I cannot watch any scary movies or the above comment will be even worse

I am terrible in the kitchen.....and I'm ok with it (most of the time)

I love ice cream more than any normal person should

I refer to my dogs as my kids

 No matter how many projects I have I always seem to take on just "one" more.

I am Excited about....

The new year and my business growing

The growth of The Factory Art Studios

My next trip to Nicaragua

My sweet friends that will become Mommies this year

Inspiring other people to chase your dreams and take chances on yourself (and proving it's all worth it)

Art projects with my little Nicaraguan friends

I am Sad because.....

I miss my Grandpa

There just aren't enough hours in my day

The holidays tend to stress me out 

I am a teensy bit computer challenged.....I usually figure out what I want to do it just takes me 10x's longer than most people

I am Happy because.......

I have a wonderful creative space to call my own

I have an amazing support system and wonderful friends

I am surrounded by creative people that fuel my drive to succeed

I have met some wonderful people this year that truly have found a place in my heart

I get to spend the holidays with my brother and my new sis-in-law!  Thank you Zach for your service to our country!

I am a Bad friend because.....

I am ridiculously busy and have little free time

I don't always respond back to texts or emails as quickly as I should

Occasionally forget birthdays

I expect alot from people.....sometimes too much

I am a Good Friend because

I will always be there for you NO MATTER WHAT

I am loyal

No matter how often we see each other you are always in my heart

I am honest

Cruisin the Cornfields ride supporting Sullivan Area Arts

I am Difficult because.....

I am incredibly stubborn

I like to do things on my own.....even if I need help

I don't ask for help as often as I should

I expect a LOT from people 

I can't tell you how much you can learn about yourself when you start typing it out and laying it out there for everyone to read.  It makes me realize that maybe I'm a bit of a PITA (pain in the A**).  Hopefully you all still love me anyway, and if not I guess it's your loss......

I hope your week is filled with many adventures 

Love,

Darby xoxo

Be sure to check my friend Mindy's blog here tomorrow to see a feature on Underground Vintage and sign up to win a giveaway!

Guest Post Friday

A few months ago I stumbled upon this blog and was just floored by the raw honesty of Casey's writing.  It is easy to blog about life especially the day to day happenings and definitely when things are going smoothly. Casey opens up about the true realities of life, her family, and art in a way that brings you into her home as if she were chatting over coffee with you.  You can read a bit about her here but I hope that you will take the time to check out her blog, read her stories, and show her some love......Have a great weekend!

My name is Casey Wiegand, I am a freelance artist, wife and mama. 

I love painting and sharing our life through my blog...where you can expect pieces of my perspective on life, faith, kids, marriage, with touches of art, creative inspiration, projects and things I love along the way. I have two little ones in the hopes of lots more and am married to the love of my life :).

 Im a sensitive soul, I am a people pleaser, I tend to be insecure at times.

I am trying to say "no more apologies"...

this is who I am.

I AM that mom that hates being away from her kids, even for an hour.

I am NOT that mom that cooks amazing meals, in fact my kiddos eat waffles and sandwiches a lot of evenings.

I AM that girl that gets hurt easily.

I am NOT that girl that balances her time wisely.

I AM that mom that advocates co.sleeping and NOT letting your babies cry it out.

I am NOT that mom that is crazy about schedules, about dropping pasies/bottles etc etc

I AM that wife that chooses her husband through it all.

I am NOT that wife that does everything right.

I was going through some messy stuff in December and I read this quote by Leslie

"If you haven't already gathered, or happen to be reading this blog for the first time in your life, I am a melancholy girl through and through. I find beauty in not only the beautiful things in life, but the bittersweet and sad as well. To me, there is something poignantly lovely about the human experience from its splendor to its grief. God created all our emotions, not just the happy ones, and for His good purposes. That's why a good cry can feel so good. And hitting our limits forces us to look outside ourselves for a Savior. It is in the plea, when we're at our end, that we can find that which is truly life-giving. Personally, my moments of deepest grief, deepest pain, have resulted in the most beautiful seasons in my heart. I've met God more intimately in those moments than in all the other pleasant ones combined. What isn't completely lovely about that?"

In a moment where I felt alone, I felt heartbroken, angry.....I read this and suddenly felt like someone out in the world possibly understood. In January of this year with 20 followers I started speaking out on my beliefs. I started talking about mama stuff, some heartache, money trouble, csection scars, NICUs, my miscarriage, almost killing my dog on accident....and that's not the half of it. I havent even gone down some of the REALLY tough roads of where I have been with you all yet.

I wanted (and still do) this to be a blog/ a place of inspiration, uplift, joy...but also truth. Because life is hard. 

A lot of us have been through some seriously icky stuff. 

And so I wanted this also to be "real". 

It's easy to take beautiful family photos and pretend to have it all together-but  who does that help?

Then Rachel (who blogs here) said this...

"To be taken seriously, I must realize the seriousness of  blogging.

Not in a "I take myself very seriously" type of way at all. More in the way that you realize the importance of the words, the faith and the beliefs that you hold.

I have a responsibility and far reaching arms when I share my words and

so

do

you.

Use your blog, your words and your person to share the Lord (and your heart) with others.

They desperately need to hear your story as much as you need to hear theirs.

Be serious. Be passionate and Be you."

Use your voice. No apologies. 

We are all different and have been through different things, believe different things.... but whoever you are there is SOMEONE you can touch with your story.

Don't hold onto it.

A Day of Thanksgiving

Why is it that it takes a holiday for us to give our thanks and show our gratitude for the things that we are thankful for?

I often dwell on that fact and try my darndest to make sure the people in my life (God included) know how much they mean to me.  I know that I don't always carry out these intentions with as much gusto as I should so I suppose that having a dedicated holiday is a spectacular idea.  

I know in my heart I am thankful for many, many things.  I hope that if you are a part of my life that you know that I am thankful for you too!

My thankfulness begins here:

God and his only Son

My supportive, ornery, humorous husband

My creative, sweet, and charming little girl

My Family and Friends who are ever supportive of me and my journey that I am on

My warm home and a creative space to call my own

My Fur babies who are spoiled rotten but always love me and always happy to see me

My Church where I can praise our Lord and give back to others

My Nicaragua family, you may be many miles away but are always in my heart

My craftiness, desire to succeed, and work ethic.....thank you Jesus for these gifts

I am thankful for motherhood and other mommies out there.......Best job a girl could ever have!

I am thankful that I get to share the holidays with my brother who just returned from the service.

My hope for you all today is that you have a blessed day with the people you love.  Enjoy the food, fellowship, and love!

Have a FANTASTIC Thanksgiving~

Darby xoxo

More about Me Monday

About a month ago I posted some tidbits about myself here and have vowed to open up a bit more.  I felt that the best way to make this happen was to dedicate a weekly post to the subject of my self awareness.

I am in the process of working with another blog doing a give away and shop promotion.  Part of what Mindy wanted for this post was a head shot or picture of myself.  Many of the blogs I follow have amazing self portraits and candid shots of these amazing ladies in their day to day routines or blogging about their style and fashion.  This was HARD for me!  I am absolutely not comfortable having pics taken of me alone....I am ok if you put my family or friends in the shot with me, but I would much rather post pictures of my work as opposed to myself.  

I can tell you that this photo shoot was quite the ordeal.  My sweet husband attempted to take some pics outside but the wind was blowing 80 miles per hour and I just felt ridiculous .  Bella and I had to go to the studio awhile later so I left the picture taking up to myself and my 5 year old.  This is what we came up with............

This one is my favorite.....Bella does good work

The lesson from this experience is that I still don't feel comfortable with self portraits.  It brings out a certain vulnerability in me that I don't really like.  I do think as a woman in today's super critical society that it is important to take these shots and make sure that we find the beauty in our flaws and give ourselves the respect that we deserve.  I found that you should take enough pics that you can find one that you are truly happy with, and that you can say "I think that shot really portrays me".

I hope your week brings new surprises, adventures, and moments of self awareness~

Darby xoxo

In the Dog House

I awoke this morning to the words "Bad girl Gypsy"!  I thought to myself, what could that sweet, innocent, precious boxer have done now?  I think the photos will speak for themselves........

That green "stuff" would be the inside stuffing of her nice fluffy dog bed

This was her expression today......She could not seem to shake the look of guilt that had overtaken her

The greatest photo of all is Eddy reveling in her naughty-ness

Life is good when you are NOT the one in trouble!

I hope you all had a great weekend!  I had a fabulous one!

Darby xoxo

First Friday Guest Post!!!

Hello Sweet Friends! I am so excited to be having our first ever guest post today! My friend Annie from Ollie Faith designs is sharing with us her inspiration and beautiful family!  Please check out her shop and blog and show her some love!

What type of goods do you make and how did you get started?

I make hand stamped custom jewelry pieces.  I got started in March of this year after I had my 3rd child, Ollie Faith, in February.  Ollie has Down Syndrome and at the time had a serious heart defect.  She was in heart failure and staying home with her until her open heart surgery was a priority for me so this type of craft gave me that opportunity and provided some extra income as well.

All life is precious necklace for Down Syndrome Awareness

What inspires you and drives your creativity?

The people I work with inspire me.  A majority of the items that I make are custom so it allows me to work with my customer to create the perfect item for them.  A large portion of my customer base is in the Down Syndrome community and that allows me to meet new friends and share our stories.  I love that part of my business.

A custom bracelet made for a foster mother with the names of all the children that she has cared for

Describe your creative process

When I get an order I really like to get a feel for my customer, I offer them ideas that I think would make their piece unique or stand out for them.  I love when a customer gives me the creative freedom to make a piece that I think would look best.

Most of the jewelry I make is made using sterling silver, I have started introducing pieces made from copper, brass and nickel as well.

What is your favorite thing about making and selling handmade goods?

My favorite thing about hand stamped jewelry are the people I make it for. Often they are asking for pieces with their children or grandchildren in mind. There is always a story, always a special person or history behind it & often they share that with me. When I get to deliver that piece to them and hear how happy they are or even better see their tears of joy it makes it very rewarding for me!

What handmade possession do you most cherish?

My favorite hand made possession is probably a family painting that my sister Abbie made for me. It's funky folk art & it's totally my style! She's working on it currently to add Ollie Faith to the portrait now.

Who has been most influential in your craft?

The most influential person in my craft is my sister Maggie. She used to do this craft before me, but didn't have the passion for it. She handed over all the tools to me, she taught me how to do it, and her creativity sparks new ideas in me all of the time.

As a super busy mamma, how do you spend your free time?

I don't have much free time, but when I do I work out - I'm a new fitness junkie & that time for me I kind of cherish now! I also love junk trips with my sisters & Mom. There is nothing better than finding an old dusty industrial piece in a junk store that people have passed over time and time again. They often scream my name & are at amazing prices - I love a good deal!

What advice to you have for other mompreneurs out there?

My best advice is do what you love! I have learned in this process that if there is a project taking time away from my family, it needs to be something that I truly enjoy doing. I used to sew a bit, but I honestly dreaded those orders so I've now cut that from my list & haven't regretted it one bit!

..

I hope you all have a GREAT weekend!

Check out Annie's blog here

shop her goods here

Find her on Facebook here

Annie, her fabulous sisters and I will be having a festive holiday show on Saturday!  If you are local stop out and shop our goods!  It will be a fabulous time with some seriously good loot!  More details here.

Thank Your Soldiers!

Today was such an important day for our countrys Veterans.  I am a very proud sister to a United States Marine and I also have some extra USMC brothers that I have adopted with my whole heart. 

My brother Zachary with our Grandma at his wedding

Me and my extra Brothers!

I can't help but have a heavy heart today knowing that not all of our military brothers and sisters returned home from their service.  There is one young man in particular that I never had the priveledge of knowing but he served along with my my brother.  Chad gave the ultimate sacrifice on December 1st, 2010 in Afghanistan.

The Guys preparing to leave for their Afghanistan deployment

I keep in contact with his mother Tami as she reaches out to make a difference in the lives of our soldiers with the foundation she has started in Chad's honor.  I have talked about this foundation before but I ask you to please to read Tami's blog today and show her some love, our good Lord knows that she needs it. 

Remember to thank your soldiers not just today but always.  We do not know the trials they have faced, the sacrifices they have made, and the memories that cannot be erased from their minds.  Show them some love. 

Thank you Veterans may God bless you always~

Darby xoxo

What I Whipped Up Wednesday

Today was a busy day at the studio whipping up some holiday goodies.  Thought I would share some pictures of what's cookin' for my upcoming holiday shows!

Mini wreath ornies

Candy cane cuteness

Ribbon Pinwheel Ornies

Paper Tree Goodness

This was last weeks experiment but I LOVE how it turned out!  Bought some goodies to make more!

Details on the first holiday gathering you can learn about HERE!  Get excited people!  There is going to be some fabulous goods from some awesome ladies!

I hope you are all having an awesome week!  

blessings~

Darby xoxo

Get Your Craft On!

Wow was it ever a busy weekend around these parts!  Sunday Underground Vintage hosted the 1st ever ladies craft night up at the studio (and man oh man was it fun).  We had a great turn-out and I am already pumped up for the next class!

My friend Maggie came in toting her sweet baby Penelope and tons of crafting goods so that we could whip up some super fabulous mixed media canvases.  Glitter, feathers, buttons oh me oh my!  I was a teensy bit overwhelmed by all of the goodies and lack of a game plan but no worries I pulled myself together!

Maggie her Awesome sis Abbie and sweet little Penelope

Elizabeth and her Mamma Connie who was celebrating her birthday with us!

Keri and Julie caught mid-craft

Elizabeth, Me, and Jill showing off some finished products

My finished canvas

Wowzers did I ever have fun on this project!  This is going to have to be a repeat activity for sure and would be something fun to do with your kids!  I know my Bella is going to love making something like this.  I mean you get to use glue and glitter.....it doesn't get much better than that!

I hope you all had a great weekend! I have more to share but will save that for a later post.

love~

Darby xoxo

Want to try making one of these for yourself?  Here is a list of some materials that Maggie brought with her:

Canvas (purchased at big lots, hobby lobby, or walmart)

modge-podge glue (found at hobby lobby or walmart)

fabric, ribbon, buttons

scrapbooking paper

feathers

butterflies

old photos

quotes

sheet music

hot glue gun

GLITTER, GLITTER, and more GLITTER!

acrylic paint

and anything else your sweet heart desires

Have fun and GET YOUR CRAFT ON!