Teresa's Creative Whims

proverbs

2012-01-28T13:55:00.000-05:00

"Proverbs 17:17"

acrylic over collaged papers on wood 7" x 14"

©Teresa Kogut

new for 2012

2012-01-25T12:13:00.000-05:00

"Luke 6:31"

acrylic over collage papers 11x14

©Teresa Kogut

I can't get enough of painting in this style...acrylic over collage papers then antiquing. It is a very long process but worth every effort. This is one of four in this group. All of them have scripture reference but I didn't write out the scripture verse......hopefully prompting people to go to their bibles and look up the verse themselves. All four of them have to do with friendship....something we all hold dear.

Atlanta 2012

2012-01-24T12:30:00.001-05:00

Blossom Bucket had a beautiful "Wings of Encouragement" Angel display on the 8th floor of the Atlanta Mart. I was sooo shocked to see this! I had no idea Cindy was doing this window display.....what a beautiful job they did making these products using my angel artwork. The translation is beautiful!

Blossom Bucket window close up

Gallerie II created these paper mache figures from my Zippity Doo Da artwork

Deb Strain and Me in Blossom Bucket's showroom for a signing (and Beth's reflection in the window)

By the vibe that was going around the market.....looks like the economy is picking up!!! Long awaited news, right?

I missed going to Atlanta for the first time in 10 years last year so I was going to do everything in my power to go this year! I hope I never miss it again because connecting with my agents, licensees and fellow artists gives me a "shot in the arm" for the new year!

This year I had the pleasure of rooming with artist Deb Strain Sunday night! We first went to dinner with my wonderful agents, Linda and Ashley (poor Beth was ill, so she went to the room for some much needed r and r), then we had a nightcap, headed for the room for some sleep but instead sat up talking half the night! Thank you Deb for making this Atlanta trip extra special!

A HUGE thank you to my agents for all the work they do at the market. All three of them have scheduled meetings over a four day period! Plus they always make the plans for dinner and schedule my signings.....all I have to do show up! So thank you, thank you, thank you for everything Linda, Beth and Ashley!

I always want to kick myself for not taking more pictures! I wish I had gotten a picture of my artist friend Beth Yarbrough, some pictures of my licensees and pictures of my agents, Linda, Beth and Ashley! Maybe they will have some pictures that they can forward to me.....if so, look for another post soon!

Lots of wonderful products coming out in 2012!!!! Thanks be to God!

january give away

2012-01-09T15:00:00.000-05:00

8x10 print

©Teresa Kogut

I am offering this sweet print for the January give away!!! It measures 8x10 so it will fit in a standard size frame for hanging on the wall or find a frame with an easel back for standing on a shelf or table! All you need to do to enter the drawing is leave me a comment either here or on my facebook page!!! Good luck!

inspirational read

2012-01-04T16:48:00.001-05:00

My wonderful brother-in-law and his wife gave this book to me on Christmas Day. They were moved by the book and thought Kevin and I might like to read it. Let me just say...once I started reading it, I couldn't put in down (although I had to in order to carry out other responsibilities).

A few chapters into the book, I spoke with my sister-in-law and asked her how she heard of the book. It was God's hand at work.......while the children were attending REP (religious education program) after church, the parents had an hour or more to do something, they would go out to breakfast or just sit and visit. One of the parents found Matthew Kelly's book among other books on a shelf at the church and began reading it. He was so moved that he had to share it with the other parents. Eventually, they formed a study group and would discuss each chapter of this wonderful and enlightening book....even if the kids didn't have REP, they would still meet after church.

They also discovered that this book, Rediscover Catholicism, could be purchased in large quantities for the low price of $2 or $3 per book. Knowing the financial stress of their own parish, a few of the families pooled their money and bought 250 books. They didn't want to just "hand them out" for fear that people would never read it.....you know how we unfortunately take things that are free for granted. So they decided to wrap them up as gifts and on each book they attached a tag writing their own words how this book has inspired them in their faith and proceeded to give them free of charge to fellow parishioners. Isn't that remarkable?!?!??!

I finished the book in just over a week.....which is REALLY good for me. As much as I love to read, I rarely make time for it. However, I just couldn't get enough (and this book has inspired me to read more.....it is just the first of many spiritual books I intend to read in 2012) Each chapter was better than the last and I was moved to tears more that a few times. I can just tell you that if you are Catholic, this is a must read. If you are not Catholic, you should still read it! There is something for every one of us amongst these pages. It explains many misunderstandings about Catholicism but it is more than just that......it will inspire you to become "the-best-version-of-yourself" by seeking the will of God. This book is full of inspirational stories and gives concrete examples of how to be more spiritual.

My dear in-laws sent us two more of these books and I plan to give one to Fr. George and our REP coordinator. My hope and prayer is that after Fr. reads this book, he will find a way for our parish to purchase these books and give one to all Holy Rosary parishioners. Great things are happening..........

congrats to debbie!

2012-01-03T16:25:00.000-05:00

Debbie won the lace angel wall hanging in the December give away!! Congratulations...good way to start off the new year! I will post the January give away by the end of the week :)

more inspiration from zig

2011-12-27T14:21:00.000-05:00

ambition + perserverence + determination = a better you

Walking or Jogging for Health

By Zig Ziglar

In 1972, I weighed well over 200 pounds and my career was moving ahead very, very slowly. I decided I needed to do something about my weight and my health but, frankly, I didn’t realize that career and family benefits would also come my way. I started jogging and eating sensibly, and though it took me about nine months to really get enthusiastic about my lifestyle change, results began to show within the first month. The weight started dropping, my endurance and energy levels increased and, finally, after over nine months, the enjoyment breakthrough came.

I was in Portland, Oregon, jogging on Portland State University Campus. It was “high noon” and I had a seminar to conduct later that day. As I was jogging, it suddenly occurred to me that I was actually enjoying myself. It was fun. I was breathing easily and literally enjoying every step of my run.

That day I changed my vocabulary. For years I’d been telling people with passion in my voice that you had to “pay the price” if you were going to be successful. Today I tell people, “You don’t pay the price for success—you pay the price for failure. You enjoy the benefits of success. You don’t pay the price to build a good marriage; you enjoy the benefits of that good marriage. You don’t pay the price for good health; you enjoy the benefits of good health.”

It’s amazing what the change in vocabulary can do for the enjoyment of what you do. When I was in my 70’s my doctor, Dr. Ken Cooper, switched me from jogging to walking, I walked at a very brisk pace and, have maintained my weight and my energy level is unusually high. My resting heart rate is 48, my cholesterol level is 152, and my blood pressure is 126 over 62. That’s the reason I am convinced beyond any doubt that you really do enjoy the benefits of taking care of yourself. Think about it. Take care of you, and I’ll SEE YOU AT THE TOP!

hope for the world

2011-12-23T11:39:00.000-05:00

Wishing you all a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS

and a healthy, happy and prosperous

2012!!

from zig

2011-12-21T10:34:00.000-05:00

Why I Believe in Christmas

By Zig Ziglar

It’s the first Christmas I can remember. It arrived just seven weeks after the deaths of my father and baby sister. To make matters worse, it was in the heart of the Great Depression. Things were tough. All of us children who were older made what income contributions we could, but the truth was my mother had eight of her eleven remaining children still living at home, and six were too young to work. Understandably, the Ziglar kids were concerned about what kind of Christmas it would be!

The good news is that though our grief was fresh, we still celebrated Christmas. We received no toys that year, but much to my delight in my gift box I found three English walnuts and something I had never tasted before—raisins! They were absolutely delicious. Mama prepared her wonderful molasses candy and we had a small cedar tree. And my mother read the Christmas story, like she always did.

My sixth Christmas will always have great meaning to me. We celebrated the birth of Christ even in hard times because we believed in Christmas.

A CHANGE IN CELEBRATING THE SEASON

Unfortunately, over the years things have changed. The cheerful “Merry Christmas” of yesteryear has been replaced by the politically correct “Happy Holidays!” In the minds of many people we celebrate “holidays.” Not only is Christ not at the center of the celebration, he isn’t even considered to be the reason for the season!

If I seem upset about the changes that I see taking place in regard to Christmas, it is because I am! It’s not because an old tradition is being changed. No, I’m upset that the event that made it possible for me to have a life I could never have imagined is being hidden from view with decorations, wrapping paper, parties and political correctness!

CHRISTMAS! A REASON TO CELEBRATE

You see, I believe it’s worth celebrating that Jesus came to earth—His birth signaled hope for all mankind. I believe that as he lived out a perfect life before God and mankind, he showed that he truly was God’s Son. And I believe that by giving his life up on a cross, he completely paid the penalty that my sins—and yours—deserve before a holy God. And it was made possible because of that first Christmas.

How could I not believe in Christmas? Because Christ was born as a baby in a manger, that’s more than enough reason to celebrate Christmas for what it is—a joyful occasion. I’ve experienced forgiveness of my sins and have the assurance of eternity in Heaven!

If you don’t know Jesus Christ, let me say that He tells us in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” How do you do that? First, understand that I’m talking about a relationship, not a religion. All the world’s major religions emphasize that you qualify for heaven by your good works—the things that you do. Such “religion” is spelled “d-o.” Christianity is spelled “d-o-n-e.” Christ already paid for our sins when He died on the cross. “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). And he rose from the grave proving that the punishment for our sins was fully paid.

Nothing we could ever “do” could qualify us for God’s forgiveness and reserve our place in heaven. That’s why Christ himself said, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him who he has sent” (John 6:29).

CELEBRATE LIKE NEVER BEFORE!

God forgives us, saves us from our sins, and gives us eternal life based on our belief in what Jesus did for us. Why? Because God is gracious beyond measure! The Bible says that it is “…by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works…” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Though “the wages of sin is death” [eternal separation from God], the greatest Christmas gift we could ever have is “the free gift of God…eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

With gift-giving like that from God, I don’t want to lose the significance of Christmas. I believe in Christmas!

I urge you to accept the greatest “Christmas gift” you’ll ever receive: If you’re convinced that God’s way is the only way to meaningful life now and eternal life in heaven, you can tell him in words like these…“Dear God, I do believe Jesus died for me, and took the punishment my sins deserved. I want to receive your free gift of salvation and eternal life. Thank you for making this possible!”

Then join me this year in celebrating Christmas like you’ve never celebrated it before!

Merry Christmas,

Zig

on the wall....

2011-12-20T13:11:00.000-05:00

Art always looks better on the wall in a beautiful room! I always wanted to show my art like this...it gives people a better sense of how the painting might look on their own wall. Sooooooo, with the magic of the internet, I searched for rooms that would suit my style of art, downloaded the photo, then using photoshop, I placed my artwork on the wall. LOVE how they turned out!

You may be wondering why I don't just hang my paintings on the walls in my house to photograph them.....well, for one, this way provides me with several different styles of decor, two, the photography is way better than I could do, three, it was quicker than me taking the paintings up to the house and rearranging the art and other wall decor I already have hanging (putting more holes in the wall), four, I don't have an awesome brick wall in my bedroom like the above photo, five, I don't have a fire place...which is my favorite place for a painting to hang...must I go on????

Hope you like these as much as I do :)

teaching at sauder village this summer

2011-12-19T12:38:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to announce that I will be teaching a workshop in 2012 during "Rug Hooking Week" in historical Sauder Village! Check out this link for all the details! It is sure to be a fun learning experience!

december give away....

2011-12-14T11:57:00.000-05:00

another beautiful wall hanging from Heritage Lace. All you have to do to enter is comment below or on my facebook page the answer to the following question.........what is on your Christmas list this year?? Drawing will be held January 2....good luck!!

oh what a deal!

2011-12-07T11:08:00.000-05:00

Ok...we are winding down 2011....have you ordered your 2012 calendar yet??? Actually I sold out early this year but I quickly called Amcal and they are sending me the last 20 calendars!

Here's the deal.....

Starting today, for every calendar ordered, you will receive 5 free Legacy greeting cards!! That is quite a value...and who doesn't need some spare greeting cards lying around for the occasion that "surprises" you. Click here to order.

call me crazy.....

2011-12-06T14:01:00.001-05:00

....but guess what I did???? Last week, I signed up to be a Mary Kay independent sales consultant!!! I know what you are thinking......why? how will you find time?......I know, I know....it does seem a lil' crazy but here is how I came to my decision.

I have been using MK products for over a year now. I was invited to a friend's party, then a friend booked from that party and so on. I have been to more MK parties over the past year than I can even recall. Every time I have been to a party, our MK sales consultant, Lynn, would tell us how she got started and share all the benefits of becoming a MK consultant. I will admit, at first, I didn't pay much attention knowing this was not something I was interested in......I would think, I have no time, I am not a sales person, etc.....little did I know the seed was planted.

The more shows I went to, the closer I payed attention. I kept hearing phrases such as, flexible schedule, work when you want, inexpensive to join, no annual minimum sales required, 50% off your personal orders, average take-home income from home show $250-350, up to 13% commission checks earned when you start building your team AND when you make sales director, you earn a new car - MK pays the title, tax and 80% of your insurance!!

With all the monetary perks set aside, there are other reasons I considered joining.....meeting people. I work in my studio by myself every day - which I love and I'm not complaining because I am very focused when painting, however, I miss the "social" part of having a job. Every MK party I've been to has been so much fun. Let's face it, what woman isn't happy when trying new skin care products and makeup with all her friends?!?!?!

Back in April 2011 I almost joined then..still, I kept thinking the same thing.....time, where would I find the time to sell MK??? Recently, I had a show at my home the Friday before Halloween. The following day I thought, "what do I have to lose?" Nothing. I can start by working a few hours a couple times a week on my MK business and if nothing else, at least get the products I love 50% off.....but I really want that car!!! So there you have it.......I am now a Mary Kay independent sales consultant :)

Oh, one last thing....Mary Kay Ash, the founder of Mary Kay, is such an remarkable and admirable business woman that can inspire all of us to become stronger, more confident women in everything we do......this quote is the foundation of her success:

God

first

Family

second

Career

third

november give away winner.......

2011-12-02T11:06:00.000-05:00

YAY Lisa!!! Congratulations, you won the beautiful Heritage Lace wall hanging! Lisa use to live next door and babysat me and my brother back when I was too young to remember it!! Then when I was a teenager, I babysat her daughter a few times! I have to tell you, thanks to facebook, Lisa and I have reconnected! She lives in North Carolina now and I am still in Michigan...so glad you won, Lisa!

mother nature didn't disappoint....

2011-11-30T13:14:00.001-05:00

....or did she???

well, she disappointed all the children......not enough snow to cancel school!

Rats!...maybe next time, kiddos!

tis the season.....

2011-11-29T11:52:00.001-05:00

for Christmas......and snow!

This time of year is such a joy (and a bit overwhelming).

The Christmas music makes me smile and sing
(which terrifies the boys)

& seems to give me the boost of energy I need to make it through the long busy days.

I have yet to put up my Christmas decorations....I know.......

I usually transform our home over the Thanksgiving weekend
but this year I was

busy finishing up classroom projects for Holy Rosary Catholic School's

auction dinner (which is this Saturday!)

This weekend the decorations won't see the light of day either because
Friday
Kevin and I are setting up the booth for a show,
then off to his Remax Christmas party,

Saturday

we will be at the show all day then go directly to the auction dinner,
Sunday
we will be at the show again along with taking down the booth and loading up!

Hopefully during the upcoming week I can do a
little bit of decorating every night after dinner

....we'll see.

Oh and shopping........yeah, can't forget the shopping.....
haven't started that yet either.

I mentioned snow because who doesn't love a white Christmas?!?!

We are expecting 3-5" tonight which is a bit early if you ask me
(all the kids in the area are hoping for a snow day tomorrow).

In a perfect world it would snow a couple inches every day
the week before Christmas

(just enough so they can keep the roads clear but cover the trees and grass)

then in January, a few good 6-8" snow storms,

and come February 1st all the snow melts and it becomes spring....
dream on, right?

Hoping you all are enjoying the busy Christmas Season so far!

before

2011-11-28T11:10:00.000-05:00

I started Turbofire yesterday and decided I had better stick to my word and post my "before" pictures. You have no idea how hard it was for me to post these pictures! BUT, it is my motivator. Two days into Turbofire....also did P90X ab ripper today.....after Thanksgiving and indulging in the left overs, I decided extra ab workouts are necessary ;)

Other things I am adding to routine to help with my quest for "abs by Easter".....I am eating only 1200 calories/day for 1 week. Then up to 1500 calories/day until I plateau (using MyFitnessPal to track EVERYTHING I eat). Consuming highly nutritional foods and drinking lots of water! I did this about five years ago (it is the Curves weight loss plan) and got down to 127lbs. I felt great! So here I go again!

I will post pictures of my progress once a month.

Etsy Sale!!

2011-11-27T15:43:00.000-05:00

Sale this week only! Today through Monday when you check out at my Etsy shop, type in coupon code, CYBERMONDAYONLY, and you will receive 30% off your total order.

Tuesday, Nov 29, through Friday, Dec 2, type in coupon code, CYBERMONDAY2011, at the checkout to receive 20% off your total.

Go to www.cre84life.etsy.com to start saving!!

happiness is....

2011-11-24T08:43:00.000-05:00

a merciful God

Jesus

a joyful family

a loving husband

seeing your children smile and laugh

parents that love you unconditionally

friends that love you like family

freedom

a career that brings passion and inspiration

a home where we all gather to find shelter against a sometimes harsh world

pets that warm your heart everyday

and for all these things, I am thankful for.

WISHING YOU A JOYFUL AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING

more originals in my Etsy shop

2011-11-21T17:21:00.000-05:00

I have added some Christmas and Winter original watercolors to my Etsy shop today. All these paintings have been licensed either on Christmas cards, quilting fabric, or candle labels. Perfect time to purchase an original to give as a gift :)

Abs by Easter

2011-11-21T12:09:00.000-05:00

Ok, just a quick note......Since having children I have wanted toned, non-flabby arms and a flat tummy. I have been doing the P90X dvds since March 2010. I have lost fat and better yet have toned my muscles....my legs especially! However, I want to burn more fat so the muscles that I have worked so hard to tone will show...mostly my arms and tummy!

I will admit that over the past couple of months I haven't given it my all during the P90X workouts. Reason one is because I pulled a shoulder muscle while doing the Kenpo X workout so I am just doing three days of weights and two to three days of 30 minutes on my elliptical machine. The second reason is I think I just need a change in my workout.....I'm getting a little bored. Here is my current schedule:

Monday: P90X Legs and Back dvd

Tuesday: 30 minute elliptical

Wednesday: P90X Shoulders and arms dvd

Thursday: 30 minute elliptical

Friday: P90X Legs and Chest dvd

Saturday: 30 minute elliptical

**I also try to fit the P90X ab ripper routine in at least twice a week.

Soooo, I have ordered TurboFire. This exercise dvd set should be what the Dr. ordered, so to speak. It is very high energy and I am hoping it will burn off the fat! It should be arriving within the next couple of weeks. At that time I will take "before" pictures of me and post them here on my blog (the thought of posting this pic terrifies the heck out of me, but I know once that picture is out there for the world to see, I will do it!) Anyone want to join me????

This is also good timing with Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays upon us!

back home again :)

2011-11-15T17:18:00.000-05:00

My Mom, Yvonne, went with me to the Wilton, CT folk art show this past weekend. It was a 12 hour drive and I didn't get tired once...must have been the good company! Friday, Mom and I had time to kill before we could set up the booth, so we used the GPS to find what interesting things there were to do and see in the Wilton, Connecticut area. Our first stop was the Maritime aquarium.

After a few hours at the aquarium, we searched for parks.....we wanted to see the ocean! It was cold and windy as you can tell by my Mom's picture below.

We ate lunch at the Bear Grill.....great food and atmosphere. Then off to the Wilton High School to set up the booth.

Mom and I had a wonderful time together on this trip! We shared many many laughs and made memories we both will treasure for a lifetime. I am so blessed to have such a kind, sweet and fun-loving Mother...she is beautiful inside and out! Thanks Mom for going with me to CT and for making the show so much fun.

Wilton CT tomorrow!

2011-11-09T11:29:00.000-05:00

"He Will Sustain You"

16" x 20" acrylic on cradled board

Mom and I are headed out tomorrow morning for the Wilton, Ct show! Praying for a safe and successful trip! I have never been to this show but have always heard great things about it. I have also never been to Connecticut (neither has Mom), so it will be an adventure for us. One thing I know for sure is that we will enjoy our time together and share many laughs! I will be sure to take lots of photos to share upon our return. Wishing you all a wonderful weekend :)

november give away

2011-11-07T12:57:00.001-05:00

I thought this was fitting for the November give away. Heritage Lace makes these beautiful lace wall hangings. You can see their website here.

Here's how to enter.....spread the word! Repost, repost, repost! You can either repost to your blog or post my give away on your facebook page with a link to my blog. Once you have reposted, just let me know and I will enter your name in the drawing :) Thanks to all of you who enter........oh, and if someone sees your repost and enters the drawing, as long as they mention your name, I will enter you twice!!

Good Luck!

drum roll please.....

2011-11-02T17:29:00.000-04:00

the October give away winner(s) are........

Cathy Eichorn Trombley

and

Mary Dissmore

If you are a follower of my blog you will recognize Cathy's name......this is the third month in a row that her name has been drawn!!!! My husband, once again, said, "well you can't do that, draw another name." I replied, once again, "she won fair and square." (Cathy must put a special mojo on her entry ;)

So, in order to give someone else a chance, I drew another name. Congratulations to Cathy and Mary!! You both won boxed Christmas cards!!

who knew???

2011-11-01T11:16:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is National Deviled Egg Day!!!!

photo from www.incredibleegg.org

So while making my after-workout-omelette this morning, I was watching the Rachel Ray show and she mentioned that November 2nd is National Deviled Egg Day...much to my surprise and delight!! Everyone in our house absolutely adores deviled eggs. I can remember growing up, my brother and I would dang near come to blows over the last deviled egg!!

So I want to start by sharing a tip from the RR show about how to boil the perfect egg EVERY time...so she claims. If you are like me, I would make deviled eggs more often if they peeled nice n' easy. Can't wait to try this tomorrow. Put the eggs in cold water, slowly bring to a roaring boil. Remove pot of eggs from heat, cover and let sit for exactly 10 minutes (set a timer!). Then drain the hot water and shake the pot a bit to crack the shells before putting cold water in the pot (this is the part that must do it, because I never heard of it and it make sense). She said the cold water will get inside the shell and help them to peel better. So there you have it!!

I also took a little time to look up a yummy deviled egg recipe for you to try if you want something different......tbh (acronym for "to be honest"....I'm learning from the young ones in my life) I don't know if I will do all the eggs like this tomorrow because my boys LOVE the way I prepare them and sometimes don't welcome change.

BACON & CHEDDAR DEVILED EGGS

What You Need

14 HARD-BOILED EGGS

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream

1-1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/3 cup crumbled cooked bacon

1/4 cup finely shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (1 oz.)

2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives OR green onion tops

Here's How

CUT eggs lengthwise in half. REMOVE yolks to medium bowl. RESERVE 24 white halves. Finely CHOP remaining 4 white halves.
MASH yolks with fork. ADD mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, lemon juice and pepper; mix well. ADD chopped egg whites, bacon, cheese and chives; mix well.
SPOON 1 heaping Tbsp. yolk mixture into each reserved egg white half. REFRIGERATE to blend flavors.

(recipe from incredible edible egg website)

ENJOY!

halloween decor

2011-10-29T12:16:00.001-04:00

Yay, I did it!!! Not quite as extensively as I could have but the house is lookin' very Halloweenish ;) I still have a lot of pieces that didn't make the cut this year and I didn't take pictures of everything that I put out this year (gotta save stuff for next year's blog post, right?) but I am sharing some of my faves. I hosted a Mary Kay party last night and took the entire day off to clean and make food. I was so mad at myself this morning when I realized I didn't take pictures during the party or of the delicious food that I made and my wonderful friends made...all displayed in Halloween dishes! Oh well, like I said...save some stuff for next year's post, lol!

I can't forget to show you Buster and Daisy sporting their Halloween bandannas. They were groomed yesterday for the party.....they enjoyed the guests too.....although by the looks of Buster, he must have gotten into the wine!

Last but most importantly, I'd like to share with you one of my favorite sweet treats that my dear Grandma Terry use to make. Hello Dollies were just one of the delicious treats Grandma showered us with when we went to visit her. It was also one of the many hors d'oeuvres last night. (I even ate a couple this morning with my coffee!) Another down home Missouri recipe.........

Hello Dollies
by Grandma Terry

1 stick butter

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 1/2 cups flaked coconut

1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (I just use the entire bag)

1 cup chopped nuts (I use walnuts)

1 can (15 oz) sweetened condensed milk

Melt butter in 9 x13 pan. Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs, coconut, choc chips and nuts on top and in the order given. Pour milk over all. Bake 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Cool and cut into squares. Enjoy!

happy 74th

2011-10-27T13:47:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday! We love you Dad!

We celebrated my Dad's 74th birthday with a delicious dinner and a yummy coconut cake (& pumpkin pie, too!!). My Mom went all out! Of course while eating seconds of EVERYTHING, I remembered there would be dessert........as you can imagine I was stuffed!!! Speaking of stuffed....I want to share with you my Aunt Marsha's crock pot stuffing recipe which was on the menu for Dad's birthday.....it is THE MOST amazing comfort food on the planet!!

CROCK POT DRESSING

(I always say "stuffing" instead of "dressing"......must be a northern vs. southern thang)

2 or three chicken breasts, boiled and chopped

1 small pan corn bread, crumbled

2 to 3 cups chicken broth

4 eggs

1 can cream of celery soup

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 onion chopped

1 cup chopped celery

1 stick butter (or enough to took onion & celery in)

4 slices of bread, crumbled

1 Tbsp sage or poultry seasoning

salt & pepper to taste

Saute onion & celery in butter. Combine all ingredients. Mix well. Pour into greased crock pot. Cook on high for 30 minutes. Stir & cook on low 3 to 4 hours. Moist & Delicious!! (thank you, Aunt Marsha)

3 out 4....

2011-10-22T12:09:00.002-04:00

"Do for Yourself"

18"x 24" acrylic over collaged papers

So my goal this week was to paint 4 acrylic paintings.......3 out of 4 isn't too shabby. Above is just one of the three I painted......a good ole' Abraham quote again. This is a quote we all need to live by and I find it a good one to remember as a Mom. I find satisfaction in doing things for my children (now 18 and 13)....I can't help it.....but it is more than satisfaction, it is a natural instinct of wanting to take care of them, nurture them, make their life easy and enjoyable. I've been doing it since they were born and the transition from "doing for them" to "doing for themselves" is not an easy one, but I'm workin' on it :)

it WILL happen......

2011-10-20T14:33:00.000-04:00

No Halloween decorations as of yet!!! I have been busy every night....including tonight (quilt class with Mom and Renee). Seems almost ridiculous at this late date to even put out Halloween decorations! However, I must, and here is the reason....well reasons.....1) I didn't decorate the past two years because of being "too busy" and I have some awesome Halloween decorations! I miss seeing them!! 2) Our boys (ages 18 and 13) are getting older and some day (sniff, sniff) will be out on their own and I want them to have fond memories of the holidays 3) I am having a Mary Kay party next Friday and would be great fun to have the house all decked out!! Good reasons, right?!?!?

So this weekend somewhere amongst the laundry, house cleaning, cooking, developing classroom projects for the school's auction dinner and studying for Sunday evening's Edge youth group meeting I WILL decorate! Oh, and now that I posted it here for all the world to see......consider it done :)

another grungy halloween

2011-10-17T10:55:00.000-04:00

"All Hallows Eve"

10x10 acrylic on cradled board

I love painting Halloween images....and I am really lovin' the grungy process on my last two paintings. Now I just need to take the time to get our house in the Halloween spirit!! I am so late with decorating this year! I plan to start tonight just doing little by little each night til it's done.....I am hoping by the weekend it is finished. I will share photos when I am done :)

lovin' some grungy primitive.....

2011-10-13T16:28:00.000-04:00

"Merry Halloween"

10x10 acrylic on cradled board

Ok, blogger friends.......those of you who follow my blog can see that my art is all over the place!! I use to worry about this.....thinking maybe I should be more focused on a "look" or "style". As far back as I can remember, I have loved all kinds of art. I can appreciate different mediums.... oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor, collage, mix media and different styles......landscape, portrait, whimsical, primitive, realism, etc. It only makes sense that I like to dabble in all different kinds of art as well.

One of my favorite things to do is visit art galleries. It's a delight for the eyes...... I stand in front of a painting for several minutes to look at the brush strokes and detail, just soaking it all in while everyone else is moving on. Recently, while on our anniversary trip, Kevin and I were visiting a gallery in Sutton's Bay and we were admiring a talented artist's versatility. He painted in different mediums and in a few different styles.....all done very well. It made me feel more at ease with the fact that I do the same thing.....so now instead of feeling like I should focus on a specific "look", I am embracing my versatility.

look who's 50.....

2011-10-12T12:08:00.000-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND

& BEST FRIEND!!

Kevin celebrated his 50th birthday yesterday surrounded by family. He never wants the traditional birthday cake so I make his favorite...pumpkin pie! We also had apple crisp......so yummy! We shared many laughs due to the funny "over the hill" type cards and just enjoyed each other's company.

Here's to another 50!!

blessings to ewe....

2011-10-11T17:27:00.002-04:00

Another fun Christmas pattern done! I LOVE sheep and this lil' guy is so darling sporting his winter hat. This punchneedle actually could stay out all winter.... it doesn't "scream" Christmas, right? Available at my website. Also, just a head's up, I asked Rich to make some of these little cutting boards (pictured above) to attach your finished punchneedle to......that seems to be the question I often hear......what do I do with my finished pieces?

Here is my "finishing" routine......I trim the extra weaver's cloth leaving approximately 3/4", then put fabric glue around the back edge of the punchneedle. Start with the corners and fold them at a diagonal, hold until it "sticks", then fold over the four sides. Next, I put a piece of plastic, such as a ziploc bag, on top of it and place something heavy on it so it dries flat. I usually let it dry or several hours......then using a permanent marker, I color the edge of the weaver's cloth that will be showing when you adhere it to your wood, purse, etc. Most of the time a black permanent marker will work but if not, I try to match the marker to the color of the last punched row of floss.

There are other ways to finish the edge but this works very well and it the easiest way I have found to finish a piece. Finally, using the fabric glue again, I cover the back of the punchneedle with lines of glue along the edge of the piece and center as well **Be careful not to get too much glue toward the edge as it can squeeze out and will show.....not a good look** Then flip the piece right side up and center it on your substrate whether it is a wood cutting board, antique butter paddle, cradled board (available at Dick Blick), felted purse, a piece of wool (then frame without glass), etc. Again, place something heavy on it until it dries, and viola!!! you have a beautiful finished punchneedle embroidery to display in your home or give as a gift :)

HAPPY PUNCHING!!

new wood products on Etsy

2011-10-08T17:29:00.000-04:00

I am soooo excited to finally have Rich's wood products up on Etsy! Rich is my dear friend's nephew. He is a self-taught talented craftsman paying close attention to quality and detail. Once Rich is finished making the piece we finish them here in my studio using a special painting technique to give the piece a worn antique look. You can check them out here.

October give away

2011-10-07T11:18:00.000-04:00

Christmas cards!!!! It's never too early to start writing out your Christmas cards.....maybe I should start now to ensure I get them all done this year!! These cards were created from my original watercolor "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" that I painted for the 2012 From the Heart calendar published by Legacy Publishing Group. You will receive 20 cards and 20 coordinating envelopes (notice how cute the envelopes are ;) in a keepsake box. In the past I have used the box to put a present inside the following Christmas. All you have to do to enter the drawing is post a comment below or on my facebook page. Good Luck! Drawing will be announced by November 1st.

Tis the season.....

2011-10-06T14:15:00.000-04:00

to start making Christmas gifts!!!! Love this patriotic Santa. I tried something different this time. I randomly punched four colors of floss for the background....reminds me more of a hooked rug....which we all love, right? Adding this little guy to my website today if you are ready to get punchin'!! Click here.

Tomorrow......announcing the October give away!!!

you won't believe it!

2011-09-30T11:46:00.000-04:00

I couldn't believe it when Ryan (my adorable son pictured above) pulled Cathy's name from the bowl!!! Cathy was the winner of the August give away as well and she won a 2012 calendar!! When I saw Cathy's name again this month, I exclaimed "Wow, she won last month!" My husband said "well, she can't win two months in a row, can she?".....my answer...."why not?" It just goes to show you that you should enter my drawings EVERY month!!! The next two months could be you :)

Thank you to all my blogger and facebook friends for entering the drawing.......I will be posting the new give away soon.

Also a big thank you to Ryan for doing the drawing...he wasn't crazy about posing for the picture........

New Patterns!!

2011-09-29T13:11:00.000-04:00

Finally, three Halloween and one Autumn punchneedle embroidery patterns are available for purchase!! I know it is getting close to Halloween but there is still time to get your pattern and create a treat before the big day!! Your can get your pattern here.

Now, on to Christmas patterns :)

Our 23rd

2011-09-28T13:14:00.000-04:00

My sweetheart and I spent two days in beautiful Traverse City Michigan celebrating our 23rd wedding anniversary. This picture was taken on the 45th parallel located on the Leelanau Peninsula.

The colors in upper Michigan are almost in full bloom.....only a couple more weeks until we see those vibrant colors here at home:)

Monday evening ominous clouds hovered over the Traverse Bay, however, the storm never hit. We had dinner at Scotts.....I highly recommend this restaurant :)

Sutton's Bay

Since we were celebrating our anniversary I thought it would be fun to see how many hearts we could find in nature....the first one was found on a tree stump.

Another one found in a heart-shaped rock among the sand, water and weeds.

The third one was a shadow that Kevin's glass made while we were having dinner at Bubbas in Traverse City......loved this place too!

Kevin noticed the heart-shaped leaves on this Morning Glory......I need to plant one of these next spring. What a beautiful vine.

The two above pictures are of the vineyards on Old Mission Point. The Traverse City area is famous for growing cherries and grapes. There are many wineries up and down both the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas. Sparkling waters, panoramic hilltop views, rolling landscapes and lush vineyards make a simple drive a breath taking experience. Oh, I cannot forget to mention the many galleries peppering the quaint villages featuring amazing works of art.

Happy Anniversary, Kevin!

SEPTEMBER GIVE AWAY

2011-09-25T14:30:00.002-04:00

It has been tooooo looong since my last post! It has been a whirl wind here! I will explain all the chaos in a later post as I am running out of time today!

Just a quick post to show you this adorable wall hanging that I am giving away this month.....with only a few days left....oops, my bad. Just post a comment here or on my facebook page to enter!! Drawing will be Oct 1...good luck :)

a true hero

2011-09-08T18:37:00.001-04:00

Grab the kleenex box and watch this video. Glad to be able to share this amazing story with all my blogger friends. Thank you for taking the time to watch, and most of all....let us never forget.....

booth photos from harrisville show

2011-09-07T13:56:00.002-04:00

Just a few shots of the booth from the Harrisville Michigan "Harmony Weekend" art & craft show. Next post will announce the September give away!!

labor day weekend

2011-09-06T11:50:00.000-04:00

Hope you all had a great one! We were "up north" at the Harrisville Harmony Weekend Art and Craft Show. It was an outdoor show with 300 very talented artists and crafters. I usually do indoor shows so this was a new experience. Saturday we had thunderstorms and rain for about 4 hours but then it cleared up and ended up to be a beautiful day. Sunday the weather was perfect....75 degrees and breezy. Met many nice folks at the show, people from all over Michigan make this show an annual tradition. I did hear that the attendance was down due to the rain (there was a 50% chance of rain Sunday but it never happened) We came home Sunday after the show and worked all day Monday cleaning, doing yardwork, laundry etc. I would love to have had the day off but I must admit that I love it when the house is clean and the yard it manicured!!!! Below is a sweet lil' punchneedle I finished while at the show....getting in the halloween mood!!

2011-09-01T13:20:00.003-04:00

Congratulations Cathy Eichorn-Trombley!!! You won a 2012 calender! You get to choose between my "Country Bears" and "From the Heart" calendar because I posted that I was giving away the "From the Heart" calendar on my blog but on my facebook page I said I was giving away the "Country Bears" calendar....sooo I thought it best to let you choose :)

Getting in the Halloween spirit already.................

Blessings,

Teresa

amazing......

2011-08-30T17:13:00.003-04:00

wip

2011-08-24T09:10:00.000-04:00

"House Divided" adapted from my original painting

Ok, so Sauder Village once again has inspired me beyond belief!! I haven't created any new punchneedle or punch rugs in ages.....too long perhaps but I am back!! I only have an hour here and there to spare these days (usually while cooking dinner) but that is all it takes really......before you know it you are finished!!!

Have a Happy Wednesday!!

back from ohio....

2011-08-22T12:28:00.001-04:00

My friend, Linda, has a nephew that is a talented woodworker. He made some things for me to take to the Heritage Wholesale Market in hopes to write some orders. Well we didn't set the world on fire but we did sell a few pieces at the end of the show. There were many booths that offered wood accessories so with only a handful of pieces, I think Rich's work got overlooked. However, I will be adding his pieces to my Etsy shop within a week and I think this avenue will work best for us. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the above display box.....accented with an Arnett's bear, a battery operated candle and a photo of my boys when they were much younger.

Here is a picture of the booth.....it was only a 4x10 but it worked because Jann and I sat across the isle from it so we weren't in the booth.....loved that!! Wish I could do that for all the shows I do.

Check out this....I call it a "figurine stage"....originally Rich made it for me to use with my punchneedle but I needed more product to display so I turned it upside down and put a precious lil' Debbee Thibault figurine on it......love!!

Here is another "figurine stage"...sooooo cute! And of course, the Debbee Thibault figurine is amazing!!

This is a great shot, so much going on....that red wood piece on table is a "toilet topper"....you set it on the back of the toilet to hold kleenex in the middle and on each side of the kleenex are storage for cotton balls, q-tips, etc...they open with a knob and have leather hinges. This was my favorite piece!!! and of course, it sold.....so Rich..I need another one, please :)

Also, check out that adorable doll holding the sign....on our way to Columbus, Jann and I went to a couple of our favorite stores. Jann bought this lil' precious at Jeffery's in Findlay Ohio.

This picture is looking from my booth to the center of the room. The Aladdin Shrine Center is where the show was held....what a beautiful building. A word of advice to anyone that becomes a new vendor......bring tennis shoes and socks. Jann and I only brought sandals/flip flops which normally wouldn't be a problem but we had to push the loaded dolly up and down ramps for set up and tear down.....not easy when wearing flip flops!

On our way home, we stopped at Sauder Village for the Rug Hooking Show in Archbold, Ohio. Last year they added a mixed media showcase so this year Jann and I entered. This is a picture of Jann's amazing "Got Wool" tote on display at the show!!! Jann spends many many hours knitting the tote with wool yarn, then she wet felts it and then uses roving to needle felt the lamb and words onto the tote and finally sews on the handles! She also needle felted a heart to hang from the handle. All her totes have a felted pocket inside and a magnetic closure. She does amazing work.....if you are interested in purchasing one of Jann's creations here is her email address blackcrowprimitives4@gmail.com.

I took several pictures of my favorite rugs at the show but many were blurry since I didn't use a flash, but I wanted to share with you some amazing hooked rugs that were at the show....this is only a handful of what was there...if you ever get a chance to go to this show (and you love rug hooking), it is definitely worth your while. People come from as far as Texas, Canada, and California!!

Here are my two "mixed media" submissions. They are punchneedle adhered to a small cradled board. I hand painted the wood to match the punchneedle.

This rug looks like a painting!!! Below is a close up of the border. Amazing detail!!

While at Sauder Village, I met with Kathy Wright.; she is the organizer of the rug hooking event. She invited me to teach a punchneedle embroidery class next year!!! I am sooo excited! I hope my class fills up! They only allow 10-15 students per class so that everyone gets hands on help and attention. I will announce here on my blog when the classes are available (: Happy days:)

two more days......

2011-08-15T08:38:00.000-04:00

"Renew within Me"

18x24 acrylic over collage scrapbook papers

I leave with my bff, Jann, this Wednesday for the Heritage Market Cash & Carry wholesale show!! Only two more days to finish all the products I am offering, finish painting my display and pack everything into the truck. This is a new show for me so I don't know what to expect (but that is always exciting!) I am selling prints on wood (including the above angel), flat prints, notecards and wooden home accessories. The wooden pieces are handmade by my friend's nephew, Rich, then hand painted by me.....however, the goal is to have my son, Ryan, do the painting and finishing. We have designed the pieces with uniqueness and functionality at the top of the list. The finish is also very unique. I will post pictures of the booth and close up pictures of the wood items when we return from the show.

Oh and guess where Jann and I are stopping on the way home Saturday???? Sauder Village Rug Hooking Show in Archbold, Ohio. If you like rug hooking or just admire it, this is a must see! Jann and I went last year for the first time and we decided it was something we wanted to do together every year. We are lucky that it is on the way home from Columbus :)

I will have lots of photos to share when I get back in the studio..... til then, wishing you all a great week!!

A source of amusement......

2011-08-12T08:50:00.001-04:00

Read carefully ladies......and try to contain your laughter!!!!! Last weekend several of us friends spent the entire weekend together at a friend's cabin (an adult weekend!....I know...very rare and hard to come by) The above paper was posted on the refrigerator. As it was being read out loud, the men were lovin' it and in total agreement, and, of course, us women were laughing. (Mind you....as it was being read, one of the husbands was washing the dishes......we've come a long way baby!!)

Notice the date this was printed.......I kept wondering if this article was true or not because I find it almost offensive...ok, some of it IS offensive..."don't complain if he's late home for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as minor compared to what he might have gone through that day." Really????

To say the least....it was a great source of amusement for us all....the men, of course, kept referring back to it all weekend.......gee, I'm surprised it didn't end up in the bonfire! teehee

I checked it on snopes.com.....It states that this is "from a 1950's home economics textbook intended for high school girls, teaching them how to prepare for married life." However, snopes also states that it is "undetermined" whether this is fact or not.......sooooo all you wonderful ladies out there......I would love to hear your comments on this topic. Especially if you were married back in the 1950s......

The "good wives" and their hubbies

2011-08-03T12:39:00.000-04:00

"Closer to Heaven"

12x12 acrylic over scrapbook paper

(showing only partial)

©Teresa Kogut

just a snippet....

2011-08-02T13:15:00.000-04:00

"Outstretched Arms"

(small snippet of original painting)

12x12 acrylic over collage papers

©Teresa Kogut

I am overjoyed that the angels I have been painting are going to be made into some fantastic products by some of my licensees :) I love creating them....the process is very time consuming but the results are so worth it! The colors, textures and layers gives these angels a special appeal. Hope you enjoy seeing them as much as I enjoy painting them!

august give away

2011-08-01T17:08:00.000-04:00

2012 Legacy From the Heart Calendar

front cover

back cover

Who couldn't use a calendar, right? So here is your chance to get one for FREE! All you have to do is be a follower of my blog....if you aren't already, all you have to do is click on the link in the right column that reads "followers". You may have to set up a google account if you don't already have one. Then just post a comment! It is that easy!

I will enter your name twice if you link this to your facebook wall or your own blog. Thanks ;)

Drawing will be held September 1st. Good Luck!

it's done!

2011-07-30T13:32:00.001-04:00

"Peace of Christ"

16" x 20" collage acrylic on cradled panel

(showing only partial)

Guess what has arrived????

2011-07-29T11:40:00.001-04:00

Front Cover

Back Cover

YAY!! The 2012 Country Bears calendars are here!! Available at my website. I sign and date every calendar.....if you would like a personalized message please let me know at the time of purchase. You can click on the above images to see a larger picture. I have created the Country Bears calendar since 1999 and I so enjoy painting it every year.....bears never get old!

surrounded by angels

2011-07-27T12:21:00.000-04:00

....inside and outside of the studio. I thank God for the angels He has placed in my life to help me to become the person He wishes me to be. I believe each person that comes into your life whether for a lifetime, a few years, months, days or even just a few moments has been placed there to teach you something about yourself.....good or bad. Before going to bed take a few minutes to reflect on the day and the people you came into contact with......what did they teach you?

another great parish campout

2011-07-25T13:58:00.001-04:00

pretty Daisy

"Camping Again???" says Buster

Emily and Ryan

Keri and Renee

Theresa and Lisa

Ryan flippin' out!

Lincoln

Kyle...being silly again

Kyle "Empty Beer Can Toss Champion 2011"

Lisa being a kid again :)

Little Linc

Lincoln and Claire

Matthew (American Idol contender)

Max and Meghan

Nick and Keri

Erica, Nick and Kyle

Meghan and Max

Ryan and Lincoln


Meghan

Ryan and his happy face....not!

The weekend's weather called for thundershowers but once again the weather man was wrong!! and we were glad he was! It was boiling hot though, so the kids got in many hours at the swim hole. Some of the other activities included ladder ball, bonfires, pot luck dinner, pinata, women's iron skillet toss, men's empty beer can toss, music, singing and lots of laughter. We are so blessed to be part of such a friendly, fun-loving parish where we have met and became close friends with so many wonderful people.

my secret weapon

2011-07-19T12:42:00.001-04:00

I couldn't resist this "so ugly, he's cute" ape, orangutan, gorilla.....not sure exactly what he is other than perfect for my topic today :)

I have a secret weapon in my arsenal of "staying fit" (I try not to say lose weight, because it is more about being fit and healthy; besides some "overweight" people are in better shape that their thin counterparts).

Do you know how many calories you eat a day??????

The only way to know is to track it.....which I have done in the past by writing everything down and looking up the calories in a book.....what a pain! It was very time consuming. But now, thanks to my fitness pal, you can easily track your calories, fat, protein, carbs, and other nutrients using your computer or better yet, if you have a droid or iphone you can download the app for free!! I have it on my droid and every time I eat something I add it to my fitness pal. I have yet to eat something that I couldn't find in their database....even when you eat out!!!! You also can track the amount of water you drink a day, your workouts (and how many calories you burn), and enter your weight once a month.

You can choose how many calories you want to intake a day so that you know when you hit that mark. It really helps me to make wise choices when I eat.....going for the lower calories foods so I can eat more....let's face it.....who doesn't like to eat! It has also helped me to stop "mindless munching"....you know, when you are watching tv or on the computer and just mowing down on chips, popcorn, mixed nuts, etc. You would be surprised at how many calories you consume by doing this.

When you enter it into your droid or iphone it syncs to your online account so if you go to your computer the info you put in will show up. The computer version is more detailed. You can also add friends to help inspire each other to work out and be accountable ;)

I hope this helps you the way it has helped me in our forever quest to be fit!!!

a sweet visitor.....

2011-07-18T16:56:00.000-04:00

It certainly makes my day to see nature outside my studio window. I just happened to look up as this beauty was walking along the edge of our property....so I jumped up and grabbed my camera figuring I would only have a second to get a shot. I took 5 or 6 pics then quickly popped the CF card into the computer and they were all blurry!!! I looked back out the window and the sweet lil' fawn decided to take a rest in the grass. Then I knew I had time to use my tripod and get some clear photos. Thank you for posing for me bambi!! These moments are gifts from God :)

manistee michigan

2011-07-15T13:48:00.002-04:00

David & Ryan at Lake Michigan

California has nothin' on us :)

Kevin & Kyle just chillin'

Debbie & her grandchild, Lucas

Lucas & his Daddy, Paul

Lucas = precious

Beach Bums

David & Ryan

David & Ryan at Sunset

David & Ryan running down the beach

Ryan :)

My tootsies

Buster - not likin' the beach

Daisy lovin' the beach

My brother-in-law's ol' barn

My nephew, Troy

Kevin & Me <3

Ryan makin' smores

Cousins sittin' on bench in downtown Manistee

Cousins at the Pier

Once again another great Kogut camping week in Manistee, Michigan. The weather was amazing this year. It was in the 80s the first few days so we hit the beach. Then it cooled off the last couple of days with the high in the 70s and a crisp 53 at night....great sleeping weather!! I definitely caught up on my sleep....if only you could store those extra hours of sleep up and use them on the nights you don't get enough rest!

Thanks again to John and his wife, Debbie, for opening their home to all of us for the week. If it wasn't for the *#@ misquitoes, the week would have been absolutely PERFECT....but it was close enough :)

and the winner is.......

2011-07-06T15:03:00.000-04:00

Sue from Michigan!!! You have won the lace wall hanging! Congratulations!

june giveaway

2011-06-23T13:40:00.000-04:00

Yikes! I am late with this one! Only one week to enter the drawing :) Sorry so late but your chances to win should increase since the drawing will be so soon! This is a beautiful wall hanging from Heritage Lace featuring my mix-media painting "Dream". They really make a fantastic product and the colors are beautiful. All you need to do to enter is post a comment here on my blog or on my facebook page. Good Luck!

believe

2011-06-22T14:05:00.000-04:00

Isn't it amazing......God loves us so much He gave us the most beautiful place to live.

a great summer weekend

2011-06-20T13:51:00.000-04:00

SHOUT! a Fabulous Tribute to the Fab Four

at East Jordan Freedom Fest

Kevin and I started the weekend together in East Jordan, MI for his band's concert. The folks at East Jordan came out in droves to support and enjoy the incredible show that SHOUT! puts on. Directly following the concert was an awesome fireworks show! It is was really beautiful...it amazes me every year to see how they keep coming up with new fireworks!

Sunday morning, Kevin and I drove around Petosky soaking up the view of Lake Michigan. If you have never visited Michigan, you must do so! The great lakes are awe-inspiring, the weather was in the 80s and the little towns in northwest Michigan are so quaint; full of gift shops, galleries, restaurants wineries, breweries, campgrounds, bed & breakfasts, beaches and parks. I am glad to have been born and raised in Michigan and hope some day to live "up north".

After our drive around Petosky we headed home to celebrate Father's Day at my folks house. I have an amazing Father and was so happy to spend time with him and the rest of my family. Mom made southern fried chicken (my Dad's favorite), mashed potatoes, gravy, steamed carrots, green bean casserole, salad and buscuits........topped off with chocolate cheesecake! Yummo!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO MY DAD AND KEVIN!

Kevin & his beautiful children, Briahnna, Kyle & Ryan

reap what you sow...

2011-06-17T12:41:00.002-04:00

"Be Happy"

©Teresa Kogut

(I've posted this painting before but it fit so well with the below topic)

"Good thoughts and actions can never produce bad results; bad thoughts and actions can never produce good results. This is but saying that nothing can come from corn but corn, nothing from nettles but nettles." - As A Man Thinketh

Most everyone understands the biblical concept of sowing and reaping because we can grasp the simplicity of the logic. If we were to plant corn in our backyard garden we wouldn't expect spinach to come up. But even though we can grasp the logic, we don't always act as if we understand the power of this principle. And we certainly don't act as if this principle will affect us.

An example: For many years my morning ritual began with a thorough reading of the newspaper, most days spending an hour or more before dashing off to the office. I did not know then that our minds are most impressionable immediately upon rising in the morning and just before sleep in the evening.

Fresh from the reading (and thoughts) of the day's murders, indictments, invasions by foreign dictators, and all other manner of "news", it shouldn't have come as a surprise to me that my sowing of these thoughts would reap an "attitude" toward the rush hour drivers who were "conspiring" to slow down my arrival at work. Thus, by the time I did arrive, I had set the tone for my day, and it was not a positive one.

I gave up my morning ritual thirteen years ago and replaced it with a ritual of reading and meditating on some works that will sow "good thoughts" and thus reap "good results." I wasn't aware at the time that this was some sound advice offered up by the Apostle Paul, who wrote, "Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about."

We always reap what we sow and that is especially true with our thoughts. As Emmet Fox writes, "The secret of life then is to control your mental states, for if you will do this the rest will follow. To accept sickness, trouble, and failure as unavoidable, and perhaps inevitable, is folly, because it is this very acceptance by you that keeps these evils in existence. Man is not limited by his environment. He creates his environments by his beliefs and feelings. To suppose otherwise is like thinking that the tail can wag the dog."

(Excerpt from Vic Johnson's June 17th emeditation)

__________________________________________________________________

Over the past few years I have been reading books, such as, As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, The Secret by Rhonda Burnes, The Strangest Secret by Earl Nightingale and a few more. They all have the same message.......the power of our thoughts (be it positive or negative) determines our future. Our mind is like a garden of rich soil....we choose what we plant in it......plant negative thoughts and you will get negative results, plant positive thoughts and you will get positive results.....it is a natural law. The bible speaks of this same law!

So go about every day thinking good thoughts, visualize good things happening, and hold true to the fact that with faith and action, those thoughts will bring you a bountiful harvest of blessings in your life.

a great loss

2011-06-16T13:12:00.000-04:00

It is with a heavy heart that I write my thoughts and feelings about the loss of Americana Folk artist Mary Beth Baxter. I am sure most of you are familiar with her talent. She painted wholesome Americana-themed paintings. She also was a wonderful gift shop owner of primitive and Americana folk art on Cape Cod with her daughter's bakery next door.

I had the pleasure of meeting Mary Beth in Atlanta a few years ago. She was so full of joy and laughter, telling jokes and stories that kept us in stitches. Her art made an impression on me long before I met her, but after meeting Mary Beth, I was even more taken by her. I am sure she touched more lives than she ever imagined.

She suffered a heart attack 5 weeks ago and never fully recovered. I have faith that she is at rest with the Lord now. The art community and her local community will miss her greatly and my sincere condolences go out to her family.

another beauty....

2011-06-13T12:27:00.000-04:00

"Love is Everything"

16x20 acrylic

©Teresa Kogut

more snippets....

2011-06-10T15:04:00.000-04:00

"God is Love"

16x20

©Teresa Kogut

Another collage angel......I would love to paint these every day!! I enjoy the entire process of creating these paintings. From the sketching to the layering of paper, the painting and finally, the distressing. Each one is unique and turn out so different than what I originally think when sketching. I hope everyone finds this kind of joy when creating :)

pretty, pretty princess

2011-06-07T09:05:00.000-04:00

Isn't she sweet! Having fun painting some whimsical, magical, fun-loving characters :)

and the winner is.......

2011-06-04T12:11:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Julie Driver Grau!! You are the winner of the May give away!! All you have to do now is pick out a 12x12 or 11x14 print on wood from my Etsy shop. Email (teresakogut@yahoo.com) which print you chose along with your mailing address and I will send it out asap :)

A BIG thank you to all of you who entered the drawing! I will continue doing give aways so make sure to stay in touch!!

Only four days left.....

2011-05-28T10:58:00.000-04:00

to enter the May give away!!! All you have to do is "like" my business facebook page (link in the left-hand column) then post a comment on how you found me on the internet :)

You can win a free 12x12 or 11x14 print on wood!!! You choose the image you want, too! After you "like" my fb page go to my Etsy shop to look at the images you can choose from :) The drawing will be held Tuesday June 1. Good Luck!

just a teaser.....

2011-05-19T14:25:00.000-04:00

I am sooooo in love with painting these acrylic collage angels!!!! These two are almost done.....I got excited to show you what I've been working on so I don't have the crackle done yet. They are each painted on 16x20 stretched canvas. Hope you like :)

2011-05-13T15:47:00.000-04:00

"Character"

acrylic on 12x12 cradled board

©Teresa Kogut

Love the Autumn tones in this painting....love the quote......love the wisdom that flows from this great man.......love painting with acrylics.......love the PA dutch style artwork!!!! Ok, I'm done.....

a day of thanks....

2011-05-09T09:51:00.000-04:00

Mom & I

...for all the unconditional love, support and inspiration you have shown me, Mom, so that I can take what I've learned from you to help make me the best Mom I can be.

Hoping you all had a wonderful Mother's day yesterday! We couldn't have asked for a nicer day.....72 degrees, sunny and breezy. Best of all, we were all together at my parents house for a cookout and games.

silly shot

Kyle, Ryan & I

thought I felt something on my head....hhmmm

my handsome boys

favorite shot with the boys

My Mom and Dad with Kyle and Ryan

Thank you Kevin for planting Mom's flowers


The love of my life <3

may give away

2011-05-06T12:22:00.000-04:00

USA

Acrylic over collage scrapbook paper

on antique wood

©Teresa Kogut

I am offering the winner of the May give away a FREE 11x14 or 12x12 print on wood of their choice!! All you have to do to enter is "like" my business facebook page, then post a comment about how you found me.....via internet search, a friend, through Etsy, bought one of my licensed products, etc. Thanks for participating and good luck!! The drawing will be held May 31 and announced June 1.

I have a link to my facebook page to the left of this post :) Oh, and if you would like to look at all my 11x14 and 12x12 prints on wood that you can choose from if you win, click here.

happy monday

2011-05-02T12:33:00.000-04:00

Oh the words of wisdom Abraham Lincoln left us......good advice is timeless!!! This quote reminds me to slow down and not worry about doing "it all" in one day. I need to hang this in my studio so when I only get 1/4 of my to-do list completed, I won't be disappointed. Wishing you all a blessed week!

not too late.....

2011-04-27T11:47:00.001-04:00

"Forgive"

acrylic on cradled panel 12" x 18"

....it is still the Easter season! Even though I have many deadlines at this time, sometimes I have an overwhelming urge (nudge from God, maybe?) to paint something "out of the blue". That is the feeling I had Good Friday and Holy Saturday....and the above painting is the result of that nudge.

Good Friday evening, Ryan and I watched The Passion of the Christ. I saw it at the theater the year it came out and was deeply moved and disturbed. It is a realistic and graphic depiction of the suffering Jesus endured for all of us. I remembered when we left the theater (Kevin and I saw it with another couple) nobody said a word until we were almost home......that is how powerful this movie was for us. Ryan was too young then, but I felt this year is was mature enough to watch it with me. I kept looking at him through my tears to see how he was handling it and he did better than me.......girls are obviously more emotional. And, too, I think because as I watched this time, I was looking through Mary's eyes and trying to understand how she could witness the horrible torture her Son endured.....just thinking about it moves me.

After the movie Ryan and I had a great discussion. When we go to church and see the crucifix at the alter or see paintings of Jesus on the cross, it doesn't sink in how abused his body was. It would be too grotesque to have a depiction of Jesus' bloody body on display at the front of the church. But that is exactly why we both like this movie....it gets our head straight about the intense abuse and suffering Jesus' went through for us....all of us....and it also shows us the amazing courage Jesus had.

One of the incredible scenes that shows the love Jesus has for all of us is when he is hanging on the cross and asks God to forgive the very people that scourged, beat, whipped and hung him on the cross. It is very powerful to think God will forgive us as we forgive others......this was my inspiration for my painting "Forgive".

fun Easter pics....

2011-04-26T14:50:00.000-04:00

Easter was wonderful as always.....this year, however, the weather was mild enough to have an Easter egg hunt outside without jackets!!! After enjoying a beautiful Easter mass, we headed to Kevin's brother's house for dinner. I am extremely blessed to be a part of such a wonderful, loving and fun family. The children in the above photos are my great nieces and nephews......I so enjoy being around little ones.....they make the day even more joyful. (oh, the bottom two are my furry children ;)

a new home gift.....

2011-04-20T12:59:00.000-04:00

I have been looking at my Pennsylvania Dutch style artwork and choosing the images that I think make great personalized gifts. The above image originally read "Live in Harmony".....which I love that statement, too, and could still be used when personalizing. Not only would this make a great housewarming gift but also a gift to a family for any occasion....wedding, birthday, Christmas. I will be posting this for sale at my Etsy shop today......or tomorrow as today is already slipping away.........

need a wedding or anniversary gift?

2011-04-19T11:55:00.000-04:00

Tis the season for weddings! I have the honor of attending the wedding of someone special on April 30th. Witnessing this holy union between two people that love and honor one another enough to commit to a lifetime together always makes me think of my own wedding day..... my heart flutters, joy fills my soul and there is a twinkle in my eye when I gaze upon my husband. I am blessed to have found my soul mate and I'm thankful we are still going strong!

I have many paintings that can be converted into wonderfully beautiful wedding or anniversary gifts. Above is an example of a painting where I removed the original quote I had painted and replaced it with a wedding quote and our names and wedding date. This print is an 11x14 available on my E tsy shop. If you see a print that you would like converted into a wedding/anniversary gift that is not already for sale at my Etsy shop, please email me (teresakogut@yahoo.com) to order.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

more missouri pics....

2011-04-13T13:59:00.000-04:00


Ryan's bass caught in Uncle J's pond (love the cows on the horizon)

My puppy dogs...notice Daisy sticking her tongue out at me

wanna play? wanna play?

cute kitty

My cousin Shelly

Uncle J and Aunt Marsha (my Dad's sister)

My Mom and Dad <3

The whole gang at Lambert's Restaurant

My Love <3

spring break in missouri with family :)

2011-04-11T14:35:00.001-04:00

Aunt Marsha's Garden

My Aunt and Uncle have a gorgeous home and farm in Missouri. This is the view on the south side of their home. You can see my Uncle's red barn in the background. It is located just across the street from where he grew up.

A new member of the family

Here is Kitty-Kitty.....I am more of a dog person, but I have to admit, this big kitty is special. She is the most friendly, cuddly kitty I've ever met. She just showed up one day at the farm and has stuck around. When we arrived with our dogs in tow, she never ran or showed fear.....shoot, the following day Buster and Kitty-Kitty were laying next to one another.

Ryan & Kitty-Kitty

Uncle J's new calf

new calf posing for photo

Trey & Ryan listening to music together

Ryan, Trey & Kyle comin' home from the gully

love the lighting in this photo

Kyle, Trey & Ryan (oh, Daisy, too)


Are you my Mother?

2011-04-01T12:59:00.000-04:00

MARCH GIVE AWAY WINNER IS....

MARIE A. ASPERGER BEATTY VAT

Congratulations, Marie! I know you will love your new Legacy stationery products! The April give away will be posted after spring break......what will it be next? Stay tuned.......

he's 18

2011-03-31T11:36:00.001-04:00

Kyle 2 years old

My first born celebrated his 18th birthday yesterday. Hard to believe......people tried to warn me, "it goes fast, so enjoy it while you can." But is seems a blink of an eye and my lil' boy is grown into a man and will soon be making a life of his own. :'(

As you make your way through this world, Kyle, just know how much you are loved and that we are always praying for you. You will find your way, we have no doubt......you will do fine.

With love, Dad & Mom

mmm....chocolate

2011-03-26T09:03:00.002-04:00

I saved the best for last! I LOVE this painting! The color, her sweet little face, her staring eyes and most of all the cupcake!! I am lovin' this BFF series and can't wait to paint more! I am under strict deadlines....I have a show April 15, 16, 17 and would love to have a few more of these painted, photographed and made into prints on wood for the show. Also, the Surtex deadline is April 1st. Surtex is a trade show in New York where my agents meet with licensees to show them new art and hopefully meet new licensees. Soooooo......next week will be insanely busy! ta-ta for now :)

fresh...

2011-03-24T17:55:00.006-04:00

I am working on a series of paintings I'm calling "BFF". It will be entirely girly! Focusing on friendship and all the things girls love (at least this girl loves)....shopping, wine, & chocolate etc.

last snow day....i hope

2011-03-24T12:29:00.003-04:00

I took this photo yesterday out the north studio window.....it was a snow day for all area schools. The 5" snowfall was wet, heavy and coated with a layer of ice. Very pretty but I am so over winter!!

I took this picture today out of the same studio window....the sun is shining bright today! Now the temperature just needs to increase to melt the heavy snow off the poor droopy tree limbs before they give way!!!! Where o' where is my beloved spring weather?? God grant me patience, but please hurry! ;)

NEW ZAZZLE SHOP!!

2011-03-23T12:13:00.000-04:00

make custom gifts at Zazzle

halloween fabric now available!

2011-03-23T12:01:00.002-04:00

Whoooa....that's bright!! and cheerful!! Imagine the things you could sew with this playful whimsical fabric! I think when Mom and I start quilting next week, I will make a few pillow cases with this fabric for the boys......ok and for Kevin and I ;)

My fabric is sold through Marcus Fabrics so check your local quilt shop for this "Tricks and Treats" line! Now get sewing!

New Fabric Line

2011-03-22T12:58:00.003-04:00

Be Merry Bears is now available at your local quilt shop! Don't see it at your favorite quilt shop? Ask them about it! :) You can't miss out on these sweet little bears frolicking in the Christmas season. The coordinates are a perfect blend of light, medium and dark for easy quilt-making.

I will post the Halloween fabric line this week as well :) Happy sewing!!

addicted......

2011-03-19T16:25:00.003-04:00

I LOVE photo editing!!! I could spend hours and hours playing around with all the effects and frames! This photo is rather old.....from the summer of 2006 but I love my dogs and have very few photos of me with them. Actually, I am the photographer of the family so there aren't many pictures of me with anyone! LOL! My favorite sites for photo editing are picnik and befunky. Check them out and have some fun.....and if you are like me, you, too, will be addicted!

oh how I love you spring....

2011-03-18T11:23:00.002-04:00

I took this photo today......beautiful vibrant greens poking through the mud and dead leaves....it makes my heart sing!! I know all my family and friends in the south already have blooms but here in Michigan we are just starting to see the signs of spring!!! It was 60˚ yesterday! This time of year energizes me and my head swims with dreams of bonfires, smores, cookouts & camping.

Just a heads up.....I post more on my facebook page than on my blog so for up-to-the-minute information, please join my fb page :)

more new products.....

2011-03-09T08:15:00.005-05:00

So springy!! I love how the black background makes the flowers "pop". These beautiful new products are now available from Magnet Works. Go to there website here and click on "store locator" to find a store in your area. Still longing for spring but these products make it seem like it's just a day away ;)

new product coming.......

2011-03-08T12:55:00.005-05:00

The rectangle shape at the bottom of this wall hanging holds your favorite Halloween photograph. Isn't that clever!

Don't you just LOVE these!!!! These will be new this year from Heritage Lace! Check out their website...they have really amazing lace....everything from wall hangings and table runners to window treatments and shower curtains.

new month....new give away

2011-03-01T12:41:00.003-05:00

I just received these from Legacy Publishing last week. Oh, so springy!!! My first thought was....wow! these are beautiful....second thought was....hurry up, spring!....third thought was....these would make a great give away!!! Give away includes (left to right, top to bottom) a small magnetic notepad w/pencil, a magnetic list pad for the fridge, a notecard set of 13 cards/envelopes, a lined book/journal with pen and three coasters! All you need to do to enter is leave a comment on this post or on my facebook page. Post this to your blog or on your facebook wall and I will enter your name twice!! Good Luck!

the winner is.......

2011-03-01T12:19:00.002-05:00

Lisnaweary Quilts

Congratulations! Your name was drawn for the February give away!! Please contact me so I can send your gift to you :)

Dr. Ben Carson: A Man of Faith

2011-02-26T09:28:00.001-05:00

Dr. Ben Carson: The Hollywood Story - CBN TV - Video

Snow day project.....

2011-02-23T14:24:00.005-05:00

We had a snow storm Sunday evening.....we got about 10" of snow. I am however, thankful that the prior 10" of snow we had gotten a couple weeks ago just melted. Anyway, the kids had Monday off for President's Day but the roads were still bad enough that they had Tuesday off as well. I spent the day at the house working on this new pattern. I hadn't worked on punchneedle in quite a while and so enjoyed it. I just love how it turned out!! Punchneedle and hooked/punch rug patterns available soon.

Crackle is done :)

2011-02-23T13:45:00.007-05:00

"Walks Securely"

12" x 18" acrylic on cradled birch wood
©teresa kogut

......what more can I possibly add?....this scripture says it all.......