Yesterday he was not. 

I’m going to tell you a little story.

About a year and half before Creative Thursday became what you now know it as, before it was earning any income ~ I decided that I would take a trip with Sean to Italy. To be blunt, I wasn’t making any money, still had no foreseeable way of making money, had a little bit left in savings and decided that I wasn’t going to wait any longer for more "perfect" financial circumstances to appear before taking a trip to Italy which was a dream of mine.

So we went. The trip was an adventure to say the least~ and it was great! On the plane ride home, I was in tears not knowing how I was going to continue with my work when I returned. During our layover in Atlanta, GA ~ Sean and I had a beer in one of those airport "sports bars". A very nice man next to us struck up a conversation about baseball with Sean. We soon learned that this man lived in Los Angeles too. He was in the design business with a specialty in fabric and furniture manufacturing (at the time I was creating my chairs). I was at such a loss as to what my next step was that I just asked this man who I had known for literally 5 minutes if I could contact him and talk with him for some advice. He said "sure!" 

As it turns out this man became my mentor, helped me launch my first children’s line of furniture and bedding ~ and his confidence in me and my design point of view forever changed the course of my business and my life.

One trip to Italy. It took going to Italy to meet a man that lived in Los Angeles :)

My point is this: And I feel like I can speak frankly with you ~ because we can talk, you and I, about the "real" things. 

If you are on the fence about whether to take a trip that inspires and excites, to this amazing art retreat for instance. Don’t let fear especially financial fears stop you. When you come across an opportunity that gives that you a jolt of "I’ve gotta do this!" ~ pay attention and be open to what it’s about ~ my experience has shown that those kinds of opportunities are a sure sign that you are on your path, and you never know how that will unfold ~ but it’s always good!

I know, I know that this might be an especially "scary" time for your to think of doing something purely for the joy and inspiration that it would bring to your life ~ to do something JUST for you. And it would feel strange even inviting you and suggesting that you come to an art retreat this year in particular ~ but it doesn’t because I know already ~ life experience has taught me that more than ever these are the EXACT times that you should be doing something that inspires you ~ that supports you in your dreams.

Also, and I’ve heard this from some of the emails I’ve been getting from those of you wanting to attend SAW. I know it can feel intimidating to be around people who may have more "experience" than you, who may already be professional artists, who may seemingly be further along on the journey than you. But again, not a reason to stop you from coming to this retreat  ~and here’s why. If you are serious about stepping into your creativity and owning it full on, you have to become comfortable around your peers ~ you have to recognize that there is no difference, meaning they are not "above" you and you are not "below" them, between you and someone who has more experience than you. 

We are all here to learn from each other and be in support of one another ~ and again NOW more than ever is the time to recognize this and let our actions reflect this way of being.

I know I’ve been a little bit M.I.A. with the daily paintings and there are a number of reasons for that, one of which is that I’ve been preparing for a "tiny" show that will open March 1 ~ more details to follow soon.

In the meantime, as you may already know, it’s incredibly hard for me to keep creations to myself for long, so today I released three of my new tiny creations in a MINI print format over at the shop. Each one is 5 x 7, and cute as a button. 

Do you by any chance recognize the bottom two? The painting inspires the sewing and the sewing inspires the painting...Miss Fran and Daphne were my last two sewn creations...which speaking of sewing ~ I can’t wait to get back to that soon too. Oh so much to create! Somehow I don’t think that boredom will ever be an issue for me.

Remember when I mentioned that Sean reads this blog? (he prefers to be a lurker ~ actually when did we decide to call non-commenting blog visitors "lurkers"...it sounds so creepy!) ~ of course he saw my post from last week and I heard from his office, "Hey, I’m a co-worker too!"

I think the reason so many people around the world enjoy watching the Oscars is not because we all want to be in the movies or even win an Oscar, but because first and most obvious, film is one of the art forms that has the ability to connect so many of us worldwide in such a powerful way ~ And second the Oscars are the place where even if only one time a year, we are reminded of the power of believing in your DREAMS.

A slight segway, but stay with me for a moment.

Lately I’ve been saying that now more than ever is a time where WE can help each other. A big part of the inspiration behind the theme of my last painting. And a reason that I am sharing this particular painting with you today. This was also a commission I did for a special Christmas gift ~ and what makes this painting particularly special is that it was commissioned by a fellow artist. Brian has been on my daily painting list for quite some time and he’s the kind of person who takes the time to write me a little note in support of almost every one of my newest creations. (thank you Brian)

{Linz with her new painting}

Artists supporting artists. 

This painting is a symbol that represents the power and support that exists right in our own communities.

(Which speaking of communities, did you not love the choice to have other winning actors appear on the stage to personally honor and appreciate each nominee individually? Gives a new meaning to competition and support of your peers.)

8 x 8 in.

Painting by Marisa, title by Sean. I have a lot to say about this painting, but seeing as how it’s Friday afternoon...my lot to say would most likely turn into too much to say ~ and you all are ready for your weekend I’m sure, as am I.

What I will say is that I LOVE this painting. I know, I know ~ I pretty much LOVE all of my paintings, each one is one of my favorites, (and you’ll know this if you’ve ever bought one from me ~ because I’ll almost aways respond by saying "this is one of my favorite paintings")  but this one holds a special place in my heart ~ so much so that I almost did not release it for sale, but I did and here it is. And you can also find it as a print in the shop. Also, I must say that the pink balloon and the neutral coloring of this one is totally inspired by some of the loveliest engagement photos I’ve seen maybe ever, by photographer Max Wanger.

Assuming that I continue to get caught up this weekend ~ I’ll be back next week with more to say on this here blog along with an introduction to some new times for Creative Thursday!

Wishing you a very happy weekend.

(original is sold)

I’m almost always working on commissions in the "background". And this is one I’ve been meaning to share ~ inspired by some very dear childhood toys. One of my FAVORITE paintings I did as a gift for Christmas 2008.

All this talk about Lulu and I realized I don’t really have a clear picture of her here in recent blog history. And she’s cute as a button. 

This photo above is how she looks at me through the door to my studio when she either a) wants to come in or b) thinks we are going on a walk soon...
Let’s just say that a fair portion of each day, especially since my studio connects to the outside, is spent letting certain co-workers in and out. Does anyone else out there have that in their job descriptions?

Really, truly with the Lu being sick on Sean’s party just a week ago (she’s better now, thank goodness) ~ I would have it no other way. I realized just how much I adore and appreciate her. She seriously is one of the most loving dogs you’ll ever meet. A rescue from a Denver Animal Shelter 9 years ago now, it’s like she’s never forgotten that she was given a second chance and a home.  Even with the shenanigan’s that go on here in our home every day ~ the humor, the affection and unconditional love (except from Garbo...she’s conditional) we get from these hooligans is as they say "priceless" ~ so I wanted to honor them in this post today ;) You know my other co-workers, Garbo and Riley...

And speaking of appreciation of our dog friends ~ you’ve got to head over to Leigh’s blog and check out her project for 2009 ~ I’ve been a long time fan of Leigh and her beautiful portraits and now you get a chance to have her paint one for you!

hope you had a good Tuesday ~ and be sure to hug your co-workers!

Speaking of "magic moments"...

I’m not sure if this is appropriate blog etiquette, but this is life, especially when you live among 3 animals. And it made us laugh so hard, I thought you might get a chuckle too. Unless it’s one of those "you had to be there" moments...Either way I want to remember it, so in the blog it goes.

You know those times, that you try so hard to make "special" ~ Right? You know what I mean? Valentine’s day is one of those days. People usually try too hard. Everything has to be romantic and accompanied by candlelight. Although the longer I live, the more I realize that special and perfect (whatever perfect is anyway) lies in a moment just as it is. And in this moment, Sean and I were at our Valentine’s restaurant of choice/our home ~ (we prefer to avoid the crowds and the too much romantic hoopla on Valentine’s day so we usually stay in ~  but what am I saying? We do still totally give into the romantic hoopla of the "day of love", of course, just minus the crowds.) ~ I did also make a traditional Valentine’s fare, cheese fondue...can you say delicious...with champagne, flowers and candlelight, Frank Sinatra playing in the background. While enjoying our fine evening of romance, all of a sudden, out of nowhere, an ominous smell came wafting over us and were forced to put our "gas masks" on. Lulu didn’t realize that it was Valentine’s day...

Maybe a restaurant is in order for next year :)

getting these in the shop today!

I don’t have an exact time yet, but I wanted to give you a head’s up. See you shortly!

And they’re up! You can find the newest ceramics collection right here. I hope you’ll enjoy them!

I discovered Joanna’s blog via Sharon and I’m officially hooked. She’s the kind of blogger, I wish I could be, wit + brevity + loveliness and sincerity (I think I have the sincerity down :)) ~ and she finds the coolest things online. Not to mention she has a giveaway every Wednesday...and today she’s giving away the "sock monkeys" print. So head on over for your chance to win!

Also in the spirit of sock monkeys. I included them on a mug and bowl (above!) in the newest batch of ceramic creations that will be released in the upcoming week. And more wall art below. Now that my choice of prints has grown and continues to grow...I’ve been trying to organize my Etsy shop, and the first thing is to group some together to give you an idea for print combinations. The sock monkeys series is an obvious one, since I now have 4 of them. One more day left of the print sale if you want to snatch up some sock monkeys of your own.

Happy sock monkey Wednesday!

A collection. My vision for how the tiny original ceramic illustrations fit in with a grouping of original art. (they are officially up in the shop as of right now) I don’t know about you, but I am a huge fan of eclectic art groupings. I think it’s because we have access to so much fantastic art these days, in so many forms and styles and sizes, that you can’t help but want to display it all together.

The rest of this week is dedicated to shipping packages to you! I am expecting the nightlights in this week, and plan to turn them around in a day and get them out to you. Thank you so much for your patience in receiving them. All the prints from the sale should be on their way as well, and then if I have time, I will release the rest of the ceramic creations, which include, cups, mugs and bowls, as I promised...see you again soon!

Sending you love on a Monday.

And an introduction to the newest of the ceramic creations ~ tiny original painted illustrations on clay that have been glazed and are ready to hang on the wall. I know in my Creative Thursday world cuteness is redundant ~ but these are REALLY cute, and I think they would look adorable mixed into an eclectic grouping of wall art. The plan is to release these some time tomorrow, Tuesday. I’m not sure when yet, but if you are on the daily paintings list, I’ll send an email when they are ready, or you can check back here at the blog where I’ll make a note as soon as they are officially listed in the Etsy shop. I have 10 to begin with and if these are something you think you’d like to see more of, we’ll see if I can make some again. I have to say I had so much fun creating this group with their tiny hearts :) ~ honestly when do I not have fun making cute little things....?

It’s all beginning to make sense now....

One of the main reasons I’ve been a little pre-occupied and scattered in my focus on work these days is because for the last 6 weeks or so, I was planning a surprise party for Sean! (Even though Sean was happy and content with his birthday celebration from 10 days ago ~ you can’t really let a 50th birthday go by without a BIG celebration!)
I also was not able to reference or even remotely elude to anything at all about it here on my blog...because Sean does check in on this blog from to time. ;) So if you’ve been wondering why my posts have been shorter and vague, now you know why.

I don’t usually go into too many details of my personal shenanigans here at my blog, but this is an exception ~ because it was such an incredibly special event, and also this post is for those friends and family who could not attend, who want to know how the celebration went!!!

I will say that up until Sean noticed that our raisins were missing (I took all the ingredients out of the house to make an oatmeal raisin cookie cake for Sean ~ yeah, that’s how observant he is, if that gives you any idea of how hard it was to pull this "surprise" off ) ~ and up until the final few hours before the party~ when Sean’s Mom and Tom and I had to firmly, but lovingly convince Sean that even though he was feeling a little under the weather, he still HAD to see a movie with them, while I, the "unsupportive" girlfriend that I am, decided that staying home to "work" was more important~ the surprise party went off without a hitch!!!  SEAN had absolutely NO idea that a party was in the works and that so many friends and family were coming together in celebration of him!! And they did! And we both cannot thank everyone enough for joining us. 

Remember when I mentioned how even the tiniest gesture from someone remembering your birthday means so much? Well imagine a room full of your friends past and present gathered together, shouting "Surprise" when you walk in the door. Needless to say on this day after the party~ now that the shock is finally beginning to wear off, Sean is still so touched by the outpouring of love and support from everyone, especially all of you who could join us here last night.

That’s all I’ll say and I’ll let the photos below speak for themselves. Oh No I do have a little more to say and that is that the LOVE and appreciation I feel for my incredible circle of family and friends who are presently with me on this journey ~ is immense. Right as the party began, before Sean even arrived, one of our girls ~ the Lu (our great dane)~ became suddenly ill and I was at a complete loss as to what to do. I wanted to greet and be hostess to my guests while simultaneously deciding whether I would need to rush Lulu to the Emergency Vet Clinic ~ on the eve of such a big and important night that I had been anxiously awaiting all these weeks. I was in a bit of an emotionally amped state to say the least ~ and not only did all of these most wonderful people show up for Sean’s party but each one added their love, support and comfort to Lulu and I, from sitting with her, to massaging her, to giving her Reiki, to taking her out, to giving me the number to a Vet I could call on today, to helping me any way they could. (Lulu was fine through the night, and after a visit to the vet today + some medication, we hope it’s just a mild infection that will get better soon.)  It’s moments like these ~when people come together.  When you realize just how much love exists ~ Sometimes I think it’s easy to forget ~ I’m not sure why really ~ but the truth is whether near of far, whether we see each other often or every so often, we are really always all there for one another. And I’ve had few moments where I’ve seen it so clearly as I did last night. So no more emotional gushing on ~ the party and everyone who was there ~ as special for me as it was for Sean.

I THANK YOU! Sean THANKS YOU and Lulu thanks you ~ (Riley does not however, because he pooped on Sean’s office chair during the party, but because of the overwhelming love and appreciation we were feeling, we were able to overlook that incident)

(Sean didn’t think 2 candles were quite enough...)

special thanks to Chanin, my partner in crime who helped me pull this off, and helped me bake the oatmeal raisin cookie cake for Sean (well really she made it while I drank a glass of red wine and told her endless rambling stories ;) ) ~ Kerry, Sandy and Tom for the coordinating the "surprise" plan ~to Chanin and Outi for taking photos ~ and to Nancy and Steve who made the best cupcakes ever...if the producing and writing gigs don’t work out, I think that Sprinkles might have some competition.

ok then... finally back to work it is! see you tomorrow with some brand new ceramic creations...

hope you had a great weekend!!!

 
Starts today!

Well it’s officially my second ever print sale  ~ so I guess that make’s it a new annual tradition. Last year I had it for 1 day only and this year I am extending it to one week, ending next Thursday, February 12 at 11:59 pm PST. You can find all the details right here at the shop. And please contact me if you’ve had your eye on any images you don’t see them listed, I’m happy to find them or create one for you.

Thanks so much for all the well wishes yesterday, near and far, emails, phone calls, and the best ever presents (my Etsy faves that I’m going to share with you just expanded) that just kept showing up at the door!! I have to admit that in the past life has been "hectic" and I’ve often forgotten to reach out on other’s birthdays. Totally understandable, because sometimes life just is that way, but nonetheless ~ I’ve recently decided that I want to make my best effort to remember all my loved ones on their birthdays ~ because you are always reminded on your own birthday how even the tiniest gesture of remembering means so much.

So, yesterday’s birthday was an especially good one. After lingering over breakfast and sitting outside, we saw an afternoon movie (another AMAZING one in every possible way), had red wine (from the bottle below of course), talked for hours, made a delicious french themed dinner at home ~ honestly one of my favorite kinds of days in every way. I had to forgo the rain boots after all because, even though the weather was PERFECT, it was just too warm for wellies (I’m sorry to those of you who are freezing right now) ~ but it’s looking good for boots this weekend, as the rain is beginning to fall.

Oh and here are my other "tiny love" portraits. My first ever kiwi that I painted, in the "kiwi & the mouse". They are on their way to a new home...but Gerald and tiny bird are still here unless I keep them for myself ~ because I’m smitten.

Also, before I head out I want to point you to Holly’s blog today. Always finding ways to help ~ provide resources, knowledge, support and inspiration to all of us, her new 10 week creativity series is no exception. I know many of you will LOVE this series if you don’t already follow her blog. And today I am also a contributor ~ chiming in on the importance of human connection and how to go about building an online community of support ~ quite simply, making friends.

Every year I think, "oh sure, no big deal, it’s my birthday" ~ because you know how there can be all of those "birthday expectations", especially in response to the endless questions "It’s your birthday, what are you going to do?" ~  and then regardless of whether I want to make this day a big event or not,  I  always wake up with the same birthday excitement I had as a kid. Gotta love a birthday no matter what age you are. It’s a crazy special day for goodness sakes.

And I ask, how can you not be excited when you wake up to breakfast with fresh squeezed OJ and champagne and candlelight, and a call from your mom! and gifties!!! one of which, my favorite above ~ a handwritten note, (I’m loving the hand drawn hearts), from Sean on one of our favorite red wines at the moment ~ highly, highly recommend it!

So this is how I plan to spend the day, with Sean, in my NEW yellow wellies, even though it’s sunny outside. (it’s true, I have some new yellow rain boots since my other ones that I adore so much, finally bit the dust ~ a girl cannot go without yellow boots, especially if that girl is me.)

So why post today on my birthday?
Well purely in the hopes of soliciting comments from well wishers, of course :)
And also before I forget... My surprise for you...In celebration of my birthday, a new administration (well sort of :)), a new time on this planet, and my upcoming 2 years on Etsy, I’m having what is now officially becoming my "annual" print sale!!!!!!!!! I had one last year for 1 day only and this year I will let it run for a week. So starting at 12:00 am PST on Creative Thursday, February 5 it will begin (more details to follow late tonight over at my Etsy shop) and end on 11:59 pm PST next Thursday February 12.

Many reasons to celebrate!!! and with that said I’m heading back to it. It is a GORGEOUS day here :)

love to you ~ Marisa

Better late than never! Late on a Tuesday evening, I just listed some new tiny portraits in celebration of love over in the shop. There are only 6 in the photo above because I ran out of daylight to photograph the other two. ;)

see you tomorrow with a special surprise.

5 x 7 in.

February already. Two days until my birthday. Good Lord! January went fast.
I actually took the entire weekend off for fun and shenanigans of my own! The first weekend in quite a while where I didn’t squeeze in some work somewhere. And it actually feels like a "Monday" to me ~ where I’m not quite sure where to pick up from where I left off. (That’s why entrepreneurs never really "stop" working...because when you do step out of your momentum even for a couple of days it takes a little bit to re-orient again in your work mode ~ and yes all this is true even when you LOVE your work) But we all know how important it is to take breaks, because it’s good for you. And it inspires you, and now I’m so excited about my new creations, projects and changes yet to come, (which I know I keep vaguely eluding to) that I can’t decide which one to focus on first. (What I’m trying to say here with all my yammering on is that this is my official head’s up that the next two weeks will be filled with new creations...)

So I’m starting with ~ this painting. I have to be honest and say that this one was actually painted in 2008. It was on a journey for some "big press opportunities" and it just returned home to me, so I wanted to release it to you quickly before "winter dreamers" turn into "spring dreamers".

I hope everyone had a good weekend. And by the way if you are comfortable thinking about your life, your dreams (speaking of), and the choices you make about both ~ and honestly taking a good hard look at them. Go see this movie. AMAZING.
And if you can handle that film, go see this one, too. I get beyond inspired when I see truly good films in every possible way. Movies like these make me so excited to be living in this incredible city rubbing elbows with the kind of brilliant creativity that went into every aspect of the creation of these films.

(original is sold)

it is available as a print over at the shop, just through this month