From Twitter 04-29-2011

08:34:43: Something Shiny Art - handcrafted jewelry made of metal wire, metal clay, stones and artistic glass. http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
09:15:15: ClassArtGlass - Artfire Crazy Train - Lampwork tube, focal and lentil beads http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:38:13: WoodArtist - handcrafted wood baskets, boxes, and home decor pieces that are unmatched - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:43:19: dorkorama99 - Gemstone and glass, wire wrapped, sterling silver, gold-filled, and steampunk jewelry - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:47:27: Exquisite Studios - Genuine Gemstone, Fun & Flirty, and Vintage Designs - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:51:55: Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-28-2011

08:34:18: Something Shiny Art - handcrafted jewelry made of metal wire, metal clay, stones and artistic glass. http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:38:37: WoodArtist - handcrafted wood baskets, boxes, and home decor pieces that are unmatched - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:43:08: dorkorama99 - Gemstone and glass, wire wrapped, sterling silver, gold-filled, and steampunk jewelry - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:48:02: Exquisite Studios - Genuine Gemstone, Fun & Flirty, and Vintage Designs - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:51:46: Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-27-2011

09:12:39: Something Shiny Art - handcrafted jewelry made of metal wire, metal clay, stones and artistic glass. http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
09:51:47: MeganJaneJewelry - Artfire Crazy Train - Ringa, earrings, bracelets and necklaces http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:52:55: WoodArtist - handcrafted wood baskets, boxes, and home decor pieces that are unmatched - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:46:02: dorkorama99 - Gemstone and glass, wire wrapped, sterling silver, gold-filled, and steampunk jewelry - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:53:41: Exquisite Studios - Genuine Gemstone, Fun & Flirty, and Vintage Designs - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
18:15:40: Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-26-2011

08:39:06: Something Shiny Art - handcrafted jewelry made of metal wire, metal clay, stones and artistic glass. http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:37:58: WoodArtist - handcrafted wood baskets, boxes, and home decor pieces that are unmatched - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:47:05: Exquisite Studios - Genuine Gemstone, Fun & Flirty, and Vintage Designs - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
19:15:12: dorkorama99 - Gemstone and glass, wire wrapped, sterling silver, gold-filled, and steampunk jewelry - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
23:20:06: Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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Volleyball, 2-1

Another night of Co-ed Reverse 4's.  We won the first two games.  For the third, we changed up folks' roles and didn't do as well.  It sure is nice to win a match once in a while.

Artfire - Featured Shop -Valhallas Anvil

Valhallas Anvil is a member of the Men of Artfire guild on artfire.  The men are greatly outnumbered by the women on the site, so we had to come up where we could spit and chew without reprobation.  Anyway, Black Angus does some amazing metal and leather work for his shop.

They are perfect for your Renaissance outfit.  Metal buttons, cloak clasps, leather cuffs and bracers are all available from Valhalla's Anvil.  Take a look at some of his items below, then visit his shop:

From Twitter 04-25-2011

08:36:34: Something Shiny Art - handcrafted jewelry made of metal wire, metal clay, stones and artistic glass. http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
09:09:27: lovelythings - Artfire Crazy Train - Clothing, art work, jewelry and stationery http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:39:15: WoodArtist - handcrafted wood baskets, boxes, and home decor pieces that are unmatched - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:43:32: dorkorama99 - Gemstone and glass, wire wrapped, sterling silver, gold-filled, and steampunk jewelry - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:48:40: Exquisite Studios - Genuine Gemstone, Fun & Flirty, and Vintage Designs - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
16:40:19: Julie Barrett's art will be at Armadillocon this year. See her art here: http://bit.ly/g7vwah The 'dillo http://bit.ly/h39ghF #armadillocon
17:52:25: Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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Artfire - Item of the week in my shop - Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper

The item of the week in my artfire shop is this Madrone Burl Bottle Stopper.  A bottle stopper turned out of madrone burl and matched with a chrome base. It will add an elegant touch to your open bottle of vino while keeping the flavor at its best.

Contact me for 10% off:

From Twitter 04-24-2011

08:28:11: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
10:35:25: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:39:37: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-23-2011

08:28:15: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
09:08:10: LAJewelryDesign - Artfire Crazy Train - an amazing variety of lampwork bead designs - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:36:11: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:39:20: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-22-2011

08:28:09: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
10:36:31: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:39:16: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-21-2011

08:29:21: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
09:07:09: SharsArtPotter - Artfire Crazy Train - original fine art paintings and coffee mugs and serving bowls http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:36:12: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:40:41: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-20-2011

08:28:27: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
10:35:07: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:39:23: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-19-2011

08:28:21: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
09:05:19: AmyLilley - Artfire Crazy Train - Handmade miniature bears and animals, jewelery and accessories http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:36:03: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:39:20: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:44: Cher Chic - Handmade eye glass cases with muscle car themes, soft sculpture and primitive items http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:48:30: Glass charms for your next casual party - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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Artfire - Featured Shop -Sandra Healy

Sandra Healy is a member of the Artisans in Wood guild on artfire, and she does some amazing work.  She  creates small wild animal sculptures and magnets, hand carved and painted from her own original designs.

After the shapes are roughed out from basswood (American Linden), a hardwood tree native to the U.S., she then quietly carve the creatures using hand tools. Colored inks are applied to the sanded wood with an airbrush, and 3 coats of urethane brushed on to finish them.

I think these little creatures are just amazing.  Give them a look.  visit her shop and see if there's something you just have to own:

From Twitter 04-18-2011

08:28:11: UpstairsStudio - Handmade adorable creatures. Crocheted scarves, baby blankets and other items http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
10:36:10: Signs of Spirit - Hand carved Western Red Cedar symbols - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:41:52: Galleria di Giani - High quality fashion jewelry designed with your separates in mind - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:48: Cher Chic - Handmade eye glass cases with muscle car themes, soft sculpture and primitive items http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:52:08: Glass charms for your next casual party - my item of the week - contact me for 10% off - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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Lunching out : Pie Garden Restaurant

Friday  was able to get away from work around 11:30.  I normally would have gone straight to lunch, but K. was willing to join me for the meal, so I delayed until her lunch break.  I wanted to try the new restaurant in Pearland on 518 just outside of Friendswood : "The Pie Garden".  I'd seen some less than flattering reviews of the place, so I was a bit wary, but I should not have been.  I was quite impressed with the food.

I ordered the Chicken fried chicken and K. ordered the Chicken fried steak.  With both meals, green beans with onions, mashed red potatoes, and a serving of cream gravy were served.  I got a little concerned at the length of time it took to get my food, and the servers (we were visited by several as we were sitting at the counter) were impressed we'd gotten our food so quickly.  So, length of time to get your meal may be a minor issue.

I really enjoyed all parts of the meal.  The chicken was nicely done with a nice, crisp breading.  The green beans had just enough crispness and the onions added a nice flavor. The potatoes were good too, red potatoes with the skin on, mashed well.  The cream gravy, while a little thicker than I would like was great on the potatoes and the chicken.

K. had much the same to say about her CFS.  She really, really like the potatoes.  I was amazed at the difference in the breading between the two dishes, but the steak was nice and tender. (K. gave me a sample).

We chatted with our waitress about the pies, cakes and breads.  She said that they are now making everything in house, but they are working through a supply of some non-fruit pies that they initially outsourced.  She brought over a small sample of some of the French pastries and they were all quite nice.  I had an almond croissant, a chocolate croissant and a couple of other items.

We then ordered a slice of Banana cream pie and Apple pie.  The apple pie was for my father-in-law.  The banana cream pie was for me.  I enjoyed my slice pretty well, I think it could have had a few more bananas in it, but the flavor was quite good.  The crust I was not so great, it seemed very heavy on the tongue.  Maybe it was a bit under-cooked?

The total bill for the meal, with two iced teas, the two entrees and the two desserts was about $32.  So, ok price-wise.

I'm a little concerned about the layout of the place and the decor.  When you walk in the restaurant, you see the pie case in front of you.  The French pastry case is on the far side of the restaurant.  There's a lot of traffic to dodge between the entry and the pastries, so it is not a journey I'd make without having sampled some of the wares.  The decor, to me, is a little confused.  The exterior is sort of Mexican, with the tile roof.  The interior has no real theme: laminate countertops, and a very bland color scheme.  Don't go in expecting something like 59 Diner.

Overall, this is a restaurant that shows some promise.  I expect to go back.

Artfire item of the week - Wine Glass Charms

The item of the week from my artfire shop is this set of wine glass charms - Keep your and your guests' glasses straight with these whimsical glass charms. 5 different charms in this set.

Contact me for 10% off

Aikido Saturday Afternoon - 4/16/11

Aikido players:  Tim, and Brad.

Ukemi:

Set of 6 falls.  I only did right-sided as there's a painful spot on my right heel at the moment.  I'll start back on the full set next time I'm on the mat.

The Walk:

Once.

Releases:

I uke'd for Brad on the releases.  We spent a couple of hours working through the first 5 releases.

Techniques:

I also uke'd for Brad on the first 5 techniques of Ju Nana Hon Kata.  We were doing a dry run of his next demo.  We did not make it through all 10 of the techniques.  We also did it at one step distance instead of three step.

Aftermath:

More tired than I expected to be.

Aikido Friday Night - 4/15/11

Aikido players:  Tim, Sal, and Dan.

Ukemi:

Set of 6 falls.  I only did right-sided as there's a painful spot on my right heel at the moment.

The Walk:

Twice, as usual.

Releases:

I watched as Dan  and Sal worked on the releases.  We spent a good portion of the evening on this

Techniques:

I also uke'd for Sal on Hiki Taoshi.  This was the first time he'd seen the technique.  He did pretty well on it.  I, as usual, want to make certain folks get the armbar nicely, even though it is considered "gravy" in the overall scheme of things.

Aftermath:

None of note.

From Twitter 04-17-2011

08:34:14: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
09:03:17: SkyGirlCards - Artfire Crazy Train - Hello and Miss U cards and pre-made scrapbook pages http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
13:40:30: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:44:10: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-16-2011

08:34:53: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
13:40:15: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:45:08: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-15-2011

08:34:06: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
09:02:13: SignsOfElegance - Artfire Crazy Train - words and phrases become art http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:37:19: WoodAnWire - an amazing array of items made out of wood, wire or a combination of the two - http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sel
13:40:07: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:44:38: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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Volleyball, 1-2

Tuesday, I subbed in on the Co-Ed rec league.  We played the second and third game close, winning the second.  The first game was not a blowout, but not as close as the other two.

Volleyball, 0-3

Monday night, I played in the usual Coed Reverse 4's.  Once again, we lost all games, but played pretty well.  I'm still having trouble hitting 10's, but I'm getting a little better.  My serves weren't winning any points.

From Twitter 04-14-2011

08:33:33: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
10:37:19: WoodAnWire - an amazing array of items made out of wood, wire or a combination of the two - http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sel
13:41:30: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
15:42:46: CherChic - Handmade eye glass cases including muscle car themes, soft sculpture, primitive items - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:45:51: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-13-2011

08:34:20: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
09:01:35: SpareTireDesign - Artfire Crazy Train - wedding invitations, social and personalized stationery http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:38:48: WoodAnWire - an amazing array of items made out of wood, wire or a combination of the two - http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sel
13:40:23: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
15:42:22: CherChic - Handmade eye glass cases including muscle car themes, soft sculpture, primitive items - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:20:15: Tabitha Ladin will be sending her art http://bit.ly/ezW43x to Armadillocon http://bit.ly/h39ghF this year. #armadillocon
17:43:16: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-12-2011

08:34:58: RT @Less10ShopsonAF: Our guild master is the featured shop this week!!! http://ow.ly/4xpEP Enter our *blog* giveaway too! #handmade #Less10
08:35:33: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
10:37:24: WoodAnWire - an amazing array of items made out of wood, wire or a combination of the two - http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sel
13:40:11: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
15:43:19: CherChic - Handmade eye glass cases including muscle car themes, soft sculpture, primitive items - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:43:34: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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Artfire - Item of the week in my shop - Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl

My item of the week in my artfire shop is a Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl.  The hardware is a satin nickel finish, not too gaudy, not too plain.  This is a neat style of pen, with a twisting mechanism at the clip end of the assembly.  It is a good size for either a man's or a woman's hand and is 4 1/2 inches long. This has a single twist, retractable mechanism that uses a Parker refill.

Since it's my item of the week, contact me for 10% off.

Here are some pictures:

From Twitter 04-11-2011

08:34:19: SweetNSassySewing - Key Chain Wristlets and Wish Bracelets make unique handcrafted gifts - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #artfire #handmade
08:58:05: CutesyGirls - Artfire Crazy Train - Hair Bows, Cabochons, Ribbon Wreaths - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
10:38:23: WoodAnWire - an amazing array of items made out of wood, wire or a combination of the two - http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sel
13:40:14: ScottsWoodProducts - a wide selection of business card holders, ACEO display stands and props - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
15:43:03: CherChic - Handmade eye glass cases including muscle car themes, soft sculpture, primitive items - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
16:53:05: Tomi Welch and her quilts http://www.tomiquilts.com/ will be at Armadillocon http://www.armadillocon.org this year. #armadillocon
17:43:53: Carbara style pen in Blue Maple Burl - my item of the week. Contact me for 10% off. See it here - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire
17:52:53: Lubov will be sending her art http://www.lubov.net/ to Armadillocon http://www.armadillocon.org this year. #armadillocon
18:54:09: Betsy Mott is sending her artwork http://www.cornerdoor.com/ to Armadillocon http://www.armadillocon.org/ this year. #armadillocon

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Artfire - Featured Shop - Mellyn's Garden Art

Mellyn's Garden Art is a member of the Texas Guild on artfire who creates a wide variety of jewelry and art for your garden.  She works in Stained Glass, Fused Glass, Mosaics, Wood and Metal to make these one-of-a-kind creations.  They're all going to have at least a touch of whimsy in them to make your garden just a little bit more welcoming.  Her inspiration comes from the beautiful area of Central Texas (between Waco and Austin) where the only neighbors are cows.

Take a look at some of her items:

Weekend update

Friday:

GHG Shrimp boil
Aikido

Saturday:

Blueberry muffins
Artfire work
Dropped some junk off at the Spring Sparkle
AikidoDinner with K. at Durango's
Picked up Boots the cat from my Mom's for catsitting

Sunday:

Artfire work
Lazed around trying to figure out whether my gut was upset or confused.
Lupper at Joe's
Walk around the neighborhood with the dogs

Aikido Saturday Afternoon - 4/9/11

Aikido players:  Tim, Trey, Troy, Brad, and Dan.

Ukemi:  Set of 6 falls.  I only did right-sided as there's a painful spot on my right heel at the moment. 

The Walk: Twice, as usual.  

Releases:

I worked with Dan and Troy on the releases working in a round robin.  Actually the round robin stopped early, as Troy got called over elsewhere.  No damage to toes this week.

Techniques:

Brad and Troy were working on their stuff and I was among the crowd watching.  I made some comments to Troy on Oshi-taoshi and Ude-hineri.

Aftermath:

Painful, colorful middle toe on my left foot and very sore muscles.

Aikido Friday Night - 4/8/11

Aikido players:  Tim, Trey, Troy, Sal, Dan, Marvin, and Gayle.

Ukemi:  Set of 6 falls.  I only did right-sided as there's a painful spot on my right heel at the moment.

The Walk: Twice, as usual.

Releases:

I worked with Marvin on the releases and things went pretty well.  We managed to get through all 8 releases tonight.

Techniques:

I worked with Marvin on the strike-the-dummy drill.  That went well enough that we moved on to Shomen-ate.  For a first time on the technique, he did pretty well.

I also uke'd for Trey on some Owaza Ju Pon techniques: Kata Otoshi, Kubi Guruma, Shihonage and Ushiro Kubi Gatame

Aftermath:

Minor tweak of the back on the Kubi Guruma.

From Twitter 04-10-2011

09:18:11: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
15:43:20: CherChic - Handmade eye glass cases including muscle car themes, soft sculpture, primitive items - http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2 #handmade #artfire

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From Twitter 04-09-2011

05:47:02: MadMoravian - item of the week - Rebel Alliance logo stained glass - contact me for 10%off #handmade #artfire #starwars http://bit.ly/37AVX
08:56:19: FolkArtFromFlorida - Artfire Crazy Train - Folk art paintings and found object art crosses - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
09:18:17: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
11:26:19: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:30:28: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:43:24: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:43:45: Sarah Clemens' art will be at Armadillocon this year. See her art here: http://bit.ly/i37GUo The 'dillo http://bit.ly/hBXxhb #armadillocon

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From Twitter 04-08-2011

05:46:09: MadMoravian - item of the week - Rebel Alliance logo stained glass - contact me for 10%off #handmade #artfire #starwars http://bit.ly/37AVX
09:18:12: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
11:27:41: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:30:25: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:43:19: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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Aikido Thursday Night - 04/07/11

Aikido players:  Tim, Trey, and Troy.

Techniques:

First off, Trey ran through the 16 techniques of Koryu Dai San, most of them with Trey as uke.  I uke'd a couple of wrist-tweaking techniques to keep Troy's wrist safe.

Troy then ran through 1-14 of Ju Nana Han Kata with Trey as uke.  He did really well.  Tim wants to have Troy's next demo by the end of May.

I then ran through a couple of bokken take-away techniques.  A little rusty.

Aftermath: None of note, but still keeping the toe, from last weekend, taped.

From Twitter 04-07-2011

05:46:29: MadMoravian - item of the week - Rebel Alliance logo stained glass - contact me for 10%off #handmade #artfire #starwars http://bit.ly/37AVX
08:53:08: ChristieCottage - Artfire Crazy Train - Knitting, crocheting, painting, sewing - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
09:19:33: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
11:26:14: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:30:18: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:11: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
16:37:56: Another artist signed up for Armadillocon - Brandy Stark - http://bit.ly/hgbyou Check her out! http://bit.ly/h39ghF #armadillocon
17:30:13: Another artist signed up for Armadillocon - Daniel Cortopassi - view his art ! http://bit.ly/hzxXxZ - http://bit.ly/h39ghF #armadillocon

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From Twitter 04-06-2011

05:46:57: MadMoravian - item of the week - Rebel Alliance logo stained glass - contact me for 10%off #handmade #artfire #starwars http://bit.ly/37AVX
09:19:31: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
11:26:21: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:31:14: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:15: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:34:05: Another artist for Armadillocon - http://www.armadillocon.org - Sara Felix. Check her out at http://www.sarafelix.com #armadillocon

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From Twitter 04-05-2011

05:46:36: MadMoravian - item of the week - Rebel Alliance logo stained glass - contact me for 10%off #handmade #artfire #starwars http://bit.ly/37AVX
08:51:08: DanasJewelryEtc - Artfire Crazy Train - A wide variety of clay jewelry - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
09:18:11: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
11:27:13: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:31:09: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:13: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
19:03:24: Artmadillocon Art Show is ready to take space requests. The con is August 26-28. More info can be found here : http://bit.ly/g8bt9G
19:41:56: Let's go Ags! Beat ND!
22:04:20: National champs!!!!!!!

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Armadillocon Art Show is ready for space requests!

I'm running the Art Show at ArmadilloCon (this one is number 33) again this year.  I think this is my 8th year to run it.  I sent out emails and snail mail packets last week, and I'm posting the information here, along with Armadillocon's website, just in case I missed anyone.  I had several emails returned as having bad email addresses and I expect to have the same thing happen with the snail mail packets.

We plan to have an Art Supply Swap for those artists who will be attending in person. If you have excess supplies you no longer need, bring them along. If you find something in the swap area/box/thingy, it's free for the taking. Any leftover supplies will be donated to a local school or charity.
Those artists who do get panel space this year, I'd really like you to use my on-line tool for entering your artwork information. It also lets you print out control sheets and bid sheets. Last year, I entered all artists' information myself. It helped me catch a number of math errors, but I'd prefer not to have to enter it all myself. When you sign up, I'll send you an email with the link to the website.

Here are the pdfs with the information on the show.  Don't hesitate to drop me a line if you've got questions.

Letter
Rules
Entry Form

Artfire - Featured Shop - RF Colorful Creations

RF Colorful Creations is a member of the On Fire for Handmade Guild on artfire.  And the name of the studio is definitely truth in advertising: there is a lot of color in the creations in the shop.  She primarily works in polymer clay.  She also does some woodburning and then painting of the results.  Also, know that her lovebird, Sharley, supervises and inspects all items before they are deemed fit to be shipped out to customers.

Take a look at some of the amazing things in her shop:

Volleyball, 0-3, 0-3

Playing in a Reverse-4s co-ed league for the first time and trying to figure out the rules.  The first match was close in each game.  The second, not so much.  Still, some good exercise.

Weekend update

Friday:

Armadillocon Art Show website update and invitation emails
Aikido
NCAA Women's basketball

Saturday:

Blueberry muffins
Artfire work
Mowed the entire lawn for the first time in ages
Aikido
Dinner with in-laws
NCAA basketball

Sunday:

Artfire work
Made a German chocolate cake
Lunch with my side of the family for various birthdays at Stomp's Burger Joint

NCAA Women's basketball

From Twitter 04-04-2011

05:46:12: MadMoravian - item of the week - Rebel Alliance logo stained glass - contact me for 10%off #handmade #artfire #starwars http://bit.ly/37AVX
08:49:03: MidnightDolphin - Artfire Crazy Train - Custom bbby pins, leg warmers and purses - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
09:18:02: Polkadot Toadstool - Amazing miniatures, art dolls, sculpture, and wearable art - http://bit.ly/37AVX #artfire #handmade
11:27:40: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:30:50: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:15: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire

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Artfire - Item of the week in my shop - Rebel Alliance Stained Glass

I was just minding my own business one day, out in the shop, probably working on some pens, when my mind wandered to the light side of the Force.  I was near my stained glass table and I thought about doing some Star Wars stained glass.  I went inside and did some searching for Star Wars images.  The two that popped out at me were the logos for the Galactic Empire and for the Rebel Alliance.  After much deliberation, the Rebel Alliance logo seemed to be the way to go: I could get away with many fewer pieces fo glass to cut.

I'm making it my item of the week on artfire.  Contact me for 10% off:

Here it is:

From Twitter 04-03-2011

11:27:06: Taunton Green - candles, cutting boards, git sets, and clocksd using recycled, gorgeous lumber - http://bit.ly/37AVX $handmade #artfire
12:31:06: MysticKnotWorks - Sailors Bracelets, macrame necklaces, turks head rope bracelets since 1957 - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
15:44:03: TooFancy - necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets and men's jewelry using beadweaving and wirework - http://bit.ly/37AVX #handmade #artfire
17:16:26: My item of the week - A keychain with a hidden compartment in purpleheart - contact me for 10% off #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX

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Aikido Saturday Afternoon - 4/2/11

Aikido players:  Tim, Trey, Troy, Dan, Marvin, and Gayle.

Ukemi:  Set of 6 falls.  I only did right-sided as there's a painful spot on my right heel at the moment.  Trey and I also helped Gayle with some introductory backfalls on our very cushy crash pad.

The Walk: Twice, as usual.  

Releases: I worked with Gayle on the releases .  We worked on 1-4 on both sides.  She seemed fairly comfortable with the motions by the end our work on them.  If she's the same next week, we'll work on 5-8.

Techniques:

I worked with Dan on Gyakugamae-ate for quite a long time.  I probably took 50 falls on each side.  Very slow falls.  So, I would hang out in a crouch while he transitioned from the eye flash to the control of the head.  That gave my quadriceps quite a workout, and my arms, too.

Then I did some defensive Jo work with Trey: Gyakugamae Ate, Shomen Ate, Hishigi, Renraku Waza Hiji Hishigi, Irimi Mae Otoshi.  I think I did ok.

Trey then had me do a left-sided Kata Otoshi from Owaza Ju Pon.  I nailed it on the third try.  He also had me throw him with a guruma.  I chose Kubi Guruma and nailed it on the first try and, if I do say so myself, I think it was gorgeous, at least from my vantage point.

Aftermath:

Painful, colorful middle toe on my left foot and very sore muscles.

Aikido Friday Night - 4/1/11

Aikido players:  Tim, Trey, Sal, and Dan.

Ukemi:  Set of 6 falls.  I only did right-sided as there's a painful spot on my right heel at the moment.

The Walk: Twice, as usual.

Releases: I worked with Dan on the releases and things went pretty well.  On one of the releases one of my toes collided with his Achilles tendon and lost the battle.  It was quite painful.

Techniques:

I worked with Dan on Shomen-ate and Aigamae-ate and he did well.  I think those techniques are demonstration-ready.

Aftermath:

Painful, colorful middle toe on my left foot.  I could not sleep with a cover on as the weight of it caused too much pain.

Aikido Thursday Night - 3/31/11

Aikido players:  Tim, and Troy.

Techniques:

It was a night for me to work on things.  I worked on the 14 release techniques from Koryu Dai Yon No Kata and the 8 knife defenses from Koryu Dai San No Kata.  I'm pleased with how things went.  I need to work on remembering all of the knife techniques a little better.

Aftermath: None of note.

From Twitter 04-02-2011

15:13:06: MadMoravian - Pens turned out of striking wood - fountain, rollerball, ballpoint and pencils. #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX
17:16:11: My item of the week - A keychain with a hidden compartment in purpleheart - contact me for 10% off #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX

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From Twitter 04-01-2011

09:06:54: Dougal's Doo Rags - fabulously fun adornments for fido and friends. Catnip items for your feline: #artfire #handmade http://bit.ly/37AVX
15:13:07: MadMoravian - Pens turned out of striking wood - fountain, rollerball, ballpoint and pencils. #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX
17:16:10: My item of the week - A keychain with a hidden compartment in purpleheart - contact me for 10% off #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX

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From Twitter 03-31-2011

09:07:15: Dougal's Doo Rags - fabulously fun adornments for fido and friends. Catnip items for your feline: #artfire #handmade http://bit.ly/37AVX
09:47:08: Artfire - Crazy Train - Shanghai Tai - Pearls, Precious metal clay, fused glass , wire-wrapping #artfire #handmade http://bit.ly/cw3Tq2
11:07:04: Designs by Baerreis - Amazing Band saw boxes and fabulous art - everything about trees #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX
13:09:19: MossQ - Woodcarvings and blades will surprise you and bring smiles to your face. Scrimshaw to love #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX
15:13:07: MadMoravian - Pens turned out of striking wood - fountain, rollerball, ballpoint and pencils. #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX
17:16:09: My item of the week - A keychain with a hidden compartment in purpleheart - contact me for 10% off #handmade #artfire http://bit.ly/37AVX

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