#12 Japanese Moleskine Party Time 2011 (full)

[goatgoddess]

Ok I'm caving and ready to host a new molie group

Mixed media - International - theme tbd

who is still looking to be in a group?

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this swap requires a huge amount of your time – there will be no withdrawls once you are accepted into the circle. Be very sure you are ready to take this on both in time and money – you will be looking at an 8 mth commitment.
you will need a Japanese Album Pocket Moleskine, you can find them at http://www.amazon.com/Moleskine-Japa...3706515&sr=8-1 and also at http://www.moleskineus.com/japanesebook.html

************************************************** ************
The rules that will keep us all happy <G>

*You Promise that you will see this thru to the end – no flaking allowed!
*You must be an actively trading member (defined as: positive iTrader across 2 swaps in the last 3 months)
*You must have 3+ months in good standing (no neutrals or negative iTraders)
*You have an iTrader rating of 25+
*You are willing and able to do your very best work
*you will mail on time – the 1st of each month.
*You must ship eight journals around the world using MANDATORY tracking/Delivery Confirmation – no media mail

If something unforseen (major major stuff not just getting behind) you are willing to send the journal ahead and have it come back at the end when you are able to work on it - this will only be allowed on a trail by trail basis.
you are willing to share your mailing info, a phone number and list a contact person - this is to be sure no journals go MIA - info will only be shared with your fellow circle members - it's truely Heartbreaking when a journal is lost forever due to a member going MIA.


************************************************** ***********
purchase your moleys,- they are appox. 3.5”x5.5” – pick out a theme - fill out and decorate the first non-accordian pages with your name, address, and travel plan - You may decorate the cover or not - Then, the first 3 pages are all yours - This is a good time to establish your theme and color scheme – this will give your fellow artist a better sense of your theme.

you will create a four page layout in each journal you receive – Please do only your very best work

Optional – include a little something extra in the back pocket of the journal for the artist working on your journal – this can be a bit of pretty fiber, or art paper - atc– signurture card- small charm – bookmark – what ever catches your fancy - This is just for fun – some of members want to play, but no pressure on anyone to participate


************************************************** ***********
remember to mail on TIME and use first class mail with Mandatory tracking/delivery Confirmations - use a well padded bubble envie, sturdy box or a small Flat Rate Box - for $4.95 to anywhere in the US, at any weight up to 70 lbs., Priority Mail shipping takes just 2-3 days, in the USA.
After you mail post to the thread that you have mailed and post the tracking/delivery confirmations.

For eyecandy check out the gallerys here and there are several groups at flickr
(links to come)

so if you are up for all those rules and ready to get on the molie train - pm me or post here in the thread - PLEASE read over the above carefully before signing up. Then get ready for the big art party moleskine blowout

Participants and themes:

so if you would still like to join there is room for 8 people in the molie group

1. goatgoddess
theme - inspiring women in history - feel free to include quotes and such
doesn't have to be a famous women per say - I've been looking up cowgirls for a art thing for my SIL and I'm just so impressed with how much they achieved with so much in their way.

2. Pennyquilter
theme - Artist choice

3. catscradle
theme - I'd love to have a Zetti-land (think Wonderland) journal! Animals, people, flowers, etc. and their homes.
Art2Live has a wonderful Zetti tute here: http://www.atcsforall.com/forum/show...=17351&page=13 so be sure to check it out.
I'll be leaving the side borders off. It's not on the guidelines page that I posted, but I'd like each of you to "bleed" over into the next spread. No more that 1/3 of the next page


4. lilbad
theme - English/Irish cottages

5. HeatherR
theme - royalty - I'm going to do it with a purple and red color scheme

6. alanabannana
theme - all about nature - plants, flowers, birds, bird...

7. Phoenix
theme - Goddesses


8. theweavershand
theme - Live Your Dreams. I'd like each of you to somehow depict your dreams for your life whether future ones or ones that are already realized.


looking good - HeatherR got yours yesterday :)

mailed Rec


goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->home :)

Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand-> goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->home :)

Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR ->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->home:)

lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->home :)

HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->home :)

Alanabannana->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->home :)

Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->home :)

Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR-->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana -> home.. :)


-----....

[Pennyquilter]

Me please!

[Cat's Cradle]

Me!!! I already have my journal in hand!

[lilbad]

GG, could u stand to have me again.....?

[goatgoddess]

catscradle - wonderful so glad to have you join in :)

lilbad - of course! so glad you are joining :)


pm me when you get a chance your contact info

address, e-mail and phone number - for mailing and the other for just in case :)

[Cat's Cradle]

so if you would still like to join there is room for 8 people :)

Shouldn't that be 6 now? ;)

[goatgoddess]

yeah you are right but now there is only four spots left :)

[HeatherR]

Yay! Please count me in.

[goatgoddess]

HeatherR - welcome - so glad you are joining in :)

[goatgoddess]

Oh when do you all want to start?

Jan or Feb?

[Cat's Cradle]

Oh when do you all want to start?

Jan or Feb?
I vote mid-January for first mailing. I got the journal, but I need TIME. Christmas is chaos in our family and lasts for two weeks!!

ETA: I'd love to have a Zetti journal! Animals, people, or both!
Art2Live has a wonderful Zetti tute here: http://www.atcsforall.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17351&page=13 so be sure to check it out.

[HeatherR]

I agree. Mid-January or early February is best for me. I just ordered my journal.

[Cat's Cradle]

Just a quick question that GG can answer at any time at her convenience.

Since I'd like to do Zetti and have pointed toward Vee's tute, I was wondering if it's okay to gesso the entire surface of the accordion?

I know that I just, just ordered my very first jar of gesso and also know that not everyone has it or has different brands. I just think if I do the gesso for the entire art surface, that's one less step for everyone else, and the gesso layer is even and consistent.

[GoldenWolf]

Is it okay to do collage work in these? I just see a lot of hand drawn or painted work?

[alanabannana]

I would like to participate in this. I am ready for a new challenge and have been looking at this type of artistic expression lately. I can order my book today and will start work on it immediately. Please say I may join!

[Pennyquilter]

GG - is this book suppose to be accordion?

[Pennyquilter]

How many pages do we have to do for each other?

[goatgoddess]

GoldenWolf - yes on the collage - I did quite a bit of collage in the two I was in

PennyQuilter - it's stuck in the middle up at the top - four page layout :) and yes on the accordion type - Moleskine Pocket Japanese - I have a couple of links in the first posting

which I updated since you looked at it earlier so it was missing that info when you first signed up :)

[goatgoddess]

alanabannana - of course - so glad you joining :)
pm me your contact info when you get a chance

your address
your e-mail and phone number

the last two is for "just in case"

when our group is full I will send a copy to each of you :)

[goatgoddess]

Down to 2 spots now :)

if you know your theme feel free to post and I'll update the first posting :)

all info will be kept there so you will always know where to look for any updates

such as who is mailing to who and where your book is at the moment :)



..

[Cat's Cradle]

Debra, I forgot my e-mail addy first time, so I just sent it your way.

[Cat's Cradle]

I'd love to have a Zetti-land (think Wonderland) journal! Animals, people, flowers, etc. and their homes.

Art2Live has a wonderful Zetti tute here: http://www.atcsforall.com/forum/show...=17351&page=13 (http://www.atcsforall.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17351&page=13) so be sure to check it out.

Is it okay to prep all the accordion with gesso ahead of time? Save everyone that first step and make sure the gesso part is consistent....

[goatgoddess]

catscradle - I guess you could - even if it's collaged I guess gesso would be cool - I didn't gesso any pages except when I was using it as a design element

(rubberstamp with gesso then paint over it)

Zetti is a fav of mine which I've not played with in a while - so that will be fun :yes:


I don't know what theme to go with yet - so many ideas hard to pin it down......


..

[goatgoddess]

But I better pick one soon so I can get started on my covers and inside pages :)

feel free to post pictures of your work too - more fun that way <g>


..

[goatgoddess]

Oh I think I just found my theme! :jiggy:

inspiring women in history

doesn't have to be a famous women per say - I've been looking up cowgirls for a art thing for my SIL and I'm just so impressed with how much they achieved with so much in their way.

[alanabannana]

Yipee! I will order my book tonight. I was checking out the link already.

I will email you my info for the list.

I would like my theme to be all about nature - plants, flowers, birds, bird nests, insects, butterflies -- you get the idea.

[lilbad]

GG, I vote for FEB...

My theme is English/Irish cottages

[HeatherR]

You're all over achievers. :) I'm still trying to decide on a theme. Right now I'm trying to choose between primitive folk art girls, royalty, or children's classics (think Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, Heidi, Anne of Green Gables. . .etc.) Hmmm. . .what to do, what to do?

[Pennyquilter]

I'm still debating over my theme too.

[HeatherR]

Okay,I'm gonna go with royalty as my theme. I'm going to do it with a purple and red color scheme.

[GoldenWolf]

Still lurking. I have a moley already, but I am so paranoid about messing up someone else's journal.

[Phoenix]

Lurking as well...I should have 25 i trader within the next week. This sounds like an awesome experience and journey. I'm just worried that this might be too soon time wise..If it is mid February on, I can do it...I'll keep lurking!

My theme, I think, would be goddesses or sexy fairies...

[goatgoddess]

Oh GoldenWolf - come join us :yes:

you do beautiful work! you can mess up my book anytime <g>



Still lurking. I have a moley already, but I am so paranoid about messing up someone else's journal.

[goatgoddess]

I'm leaning towards Feb myself - need to give us time to get over Christmas and get our books ready to go

we will wait till our group is full then go from there :)

[lilbad]

Thanks for waiting....Going to be gone Jan and Feb...

[Phoenix]

Ok, I really want in! I looked at the gallery and just love the space to work in the care that goes into these. I'll have the time and commitment by February.

I'm sure I will have the 25 required points, as I just sent in 2 swaps on time. Do you want to wait before adding me to the list until it actually shows up, or can I get in now?

I am sure I want my theme to be goddesses.

[Pennyquilter]

Please change my theme to Artist's Choice, GG. I think that way people can make what they are comfortable with and it will reflect their style.

[goatgoddess]

you have them <g> so Welcome to the swap - it's loads of fun
send me your contact info

address
e-mail and phone numbers

just in case

these little books are soooo special so we all share our contact info just in case - sometimes things come up you don't excpect and this is such a long term swap - 8-9 mths to complete.




Ok, I really want in! I looked at the gallery and just love the space to work in the care that goes into these. I'll have the time and commitment by February.

I'm sure I will have the 25 required points, as I just sent in 2 swaps on time. Do you want to wait before adding me to the list until it actually shows up, or can I get in now?

I am sure I want my theme to be goddesses.

[Cat's Cradle]

Started my outer cover today; got the first two coats of gesso over the black. Haven't decided on the color for the outside, but I'm leaning toward a purple color.

Still gotta do the first three pages and get the neighborhood started. Would it be too much to ask for a small face shot of each person to be added to the travel log? Just add your image when you get the journal.

I think I'm gonna let everyone do their own thing with the prep work on the accordion pages. I thought about it, and want the Zetti to be all from each artist. If you don't have gesso, it's not that big a deal to me. :)

[theweavershand]

im dying to do this! if you still have a spot...may i play...please?

[HeatherR]

My moley arrived today. I was so excited I couldn't stop creating. I just finished my cover, but I have to show it off. I really like how it turned out. I can't wait to see what you all add to it. :wubclub:
http://i390.photobucket.com/albums/oo346/TRtales/MyMoley.jpg

[alanabannana]

Mine came yesterday. I am waiting till after this weekend to do anything with it. I am kind of in an overwhelmed frame of mind. It seems like such a big gesture to do that first "something to it". It seems so final and daunting.

[seekingforart]

GG, I have a question...Is this mixed media only?

[Pennyquilter]

I wondered that too seekingforart. I think a lot of you paint and I do some painting myself. Do we have to use a lot of other media?

[Cat's Cradle]

So, we're to decorate the non-accordion pages, then the first 3 accordion pages? Just want to make sure I get this right. I've started my cover and the single pages.

[theweavershand]

so...can i please have the last spot?

[1 Art Lady]

Opps, I seem to always be a day late, lately! Maybe I can catch another one. Have fun everyone, I'll be watching!

[goatgoddess]

Yes it's yours - sorry been busy with holiday stuff <g>

welcome to the group - just send me your contact info please

address, e-mail and phone number - just in case :)


so...can i please have the last spot?

[goatgoddess]

It's what ever media you want to work in :)



I wondered that too seekingforart. I think a lot of you paint and I do some painting myself. Do we have to use a lot of other media?

[goatgoddess]

Yes that is correct - I need to scan mine from the last molie I did - you can do a short intro (like your theme and what you would like to see in your book) and I like to put a

"if you find me please return to" message just in case the book comes up lost in the mail system.

also a mailing order (which no one knows yet but I will be posting in the next week)

but it's your three pages so feel free to do what you want there :)


So, we're to decorate the non-accordion pages, then the first 3 accordion pages? Just want to make sure I get this right. I've started my cover and the single pages.

[goatgoddess]

As soon as I have all the contact info I can make up the mailing list :)

[goatgoddess]

beautiful work! can't wait to see it close up :)



My moley arrived today. I was so excited I couldn't stop creating. I just finished my cover, but I have to show it off. I really like how it turned out. I can't wait to see what you all add to it. :wubclub:
http://i390.photobucket.com/albums/oo346/TRtales/MyMoley.jpg

[goatgoddess]

I'm sorry you missed it - you could host one too - usually the easiest way to get in one which is why I do it <G>


Opps, I seem to always be a day late, lately! Maybe I can catch another one. Have fun everyone, I'll be watching!

[goatgoddess]

well I have the mailing lists on the first post

how do we feel about sending out Feb 1st?
or do you want to do a middle of the mth thing - like Feb 15th?

[Cat's Cradle]

I can have mine ready for the first.

Are we all domestic US since we're always mailing to the same person?

[Phoenix]

February 15th would be preferable for me.

[alanabannana]

I could be ready for the first, but really have no preference. My book came the other day, so now I just have to decide what to do.

[goatgoddess]

we did end up all in the USA on this one

and I've been in some where you send to the same person each time and others where you send to a different person each time

for me mailing to the same person is soooooo much easier to keep up with.




I can have mine ready for the first.

Are we all domestic US since we're always mailing to the same person?

[goatgoddess]

the 1st is nice because it's easy to remember

but the 15th is nice because you don't have any "short" mths per say.

[alanabannana]

Noticed that you put up our mailing order. It will be easier for me to know I always mail to the same person. Thanks

And aren't you the eager beaver (or should I say goat!) starting yet another group.

[alanabannana]

In your directions, you say for us to fill out our name address and travel plan. What do we do for the travel plan? New at this and want to make sure I'm on the same page as everyone else.

[alanabannana]

Here are my cover and inside address page. Once I "allowed" myself to go ahead and make a mark and get my pretty new journal messy, it went smoothly. Now for the travel page when I know what I am suppose to do there.

[HeatherR]

These look great! I bet it feels like yours now. :) So far, I sketched out my three accordian pages and I'm putting my info/ travel plan in the non-accordian pages.
goatgoddess- Is it okay to decorate the pocket in the back too?

[Cat's Cradle]

Noticed that you put up our mailing order. It will be easier for me to know I always mail to the same person. Thanks

And aren't you the eager beaver (or should I say goat!) starting yet another group.
I just counted, and it looks like Lucky 13 is full already!

[goatgoddess]

looks great - very nice!

the travel page is just where you put where your journal is going - you can leave it out if you want but if you want to put one in yours would be

start - Catscradle
2. Alanabannana
3. Theweavershand
4. goatgoddess
5. HeatherR
6. lilbad
7. Phoenix
8. Pennyquilter

home




Here are my cover and inside address page. Once I "allowed" myself to go ahead and make a mark and get my pretty new journal messy, it went smoothly. Now for the travel page when I know what I am suppose to do there.

[goatgoddess]

oh yes - feel free to decorate it - good idea :) I didn't on my other ones.


These look great! I bet it feels like yours now. :) So far, I sketched out my three accordian pages and I'm putting my info/ travel plan in the non-accordian pages.
goatgoddess- Is it okay to decorate the pocket in the back too?

[Cat's Cradle]

So, I'm asking that each artist adds a small photo of themselves--Zetti or not--to the travel log. I'd love to have face to the names since this is a project that takes a long time and a lot of care.

I will decorate the back pocket and there will be a little something for each artist who is participating in this group. :yes: Just to say thanks for adding to a treasure!

[theweavershand]

i like that idea! always great to have a face to go with a name.

[Cat's Cradle]

Forgot to say that I'd like the following on the back of your accordion spread (and I'll include this bit with the moley):

User Name
Real Name - Print and siggy, please :)
General Location (city, state is good)
Month you got the Moley
Anything about yourself you'd like to share

Please make sure to use ink that won't bleed through into the art on the other side. :)

[theweavershand]

woohoo...got my journal in the mail today! cant wait to get started on it!

[goatgoddess]

Very cool! I need to get a move on - Feb will be here before I know it.

so are we all good for Feb 1st?


..

[theweavershand]

i agree the 1st makes it easy to remember but that will be here before we know it! i guess id better get busy!

[Pennyquilter]

Gosh! I'd better start decorating mine too. Less than a month to go.

[alanabannana]

I was shooting to have mine mailed and on it's way to be delivered by the 1st.

[theweavershand]

so do they need to be mailed by the 1st or arrive by the 1st?

[Cat's Cradle]

I thought our mail date was the 1st of each month.

[Pennyquilter]

I think mail date but if they come earlier, so what?

[Cat's Cradle]

I think mail date but if they come earlier, so what?
Extra time to create? Or it gets home earlier!

[Pennyquilter]

Well, cats, I haven't even started mine yet. Maybe this week-end!

[Phoenix]

Uh, ya! I just got my journal the other day, tho I have many ideas for decorating it. I was kind of hoping for a Feb 15 start date, but it seems that Feb 1 has been decided (which I understand). But I really need to get going...eek!

I'm looking for some advice: how have you all decorated your covers? Since they are sort of vinyl feeling, what adheres best and can be handled without getting messed up? Any ideas?

Back to stressing over getting started!!

[Cat's Cradle]

I've got mine covered in gesso atm. Nothing more yet. Hoping to have time this weekend.

[Pennyquilter]

Are most of you doing your cover too?

[Cat's Cradle]

I added two coats of red paint to my cover and travel log. Thinking of going with gold next with sequin waste.

[theweavershand]

how well do the decorated covers hold up with all the travel? wondering if i should wait and decorate it when it comes home. any thoughts from seasoned moley artists?

[alanabannana]

I covered mine with gesso and then a coat of acrylic paint. Next I srunched a fall leaf pattern tissue paper on it and then applied several coats of matte gell medium. Then glued on a couple butterflies and a sprig of flowers. Hopefully it will hold up.

[Cat's Cradle]

I started with two coats of gesso followed by two coats of acrylic paint. Now I'm on the decorating part. I'm planning on sealing everything with Diamond Glaze after I'm done the creating.

I think the journals should hold up well for travel if they are well-packaged. If you use a bubble envelope, wrap the journal in a layer of bubble wrap to prevent movement. Using the flat rate box, use bubble wrap around the journal, and line the box with lots of tissue paper to prevent movement.

(Packaging pointers coming from a seller's point of view, as I used to ship fragile items on a regular basis.)

[alanabannana]

Here is my three pages for my journal for myself

[theweavershand]

nice job!

[Cat's Cradle]

Lovely! I won't get to see it in person until later in the year as I'm last in your journal, but I can't wait!

Making progress on my journal. Added stamped trees and colored them with gel pens and Staedtler pens (so they're a bit subdued on the back) and did my travel log.

The People in my Neighborhood on an ATC size piece of vellum with little flowers punched out. I glued the flowers to the cover. :)

I really need to get my camera to this book!

[goatgoddess]

you can do it either way - my molies both went out with covers fully done - they came back just fine

just as a note - be sure to use wax paper between pages and put the molie in a sandwich bag to protect it in case the box it's in gets wet.

[theweavershand]

good tip! thanks!

[Cat's Cradle]

I found out a biggie when doing my travel log: acrylic varnish makes vellum curl and peel off the page! So, I used the inside of my front cover for my "return home" page and am doing something a bit different with the travel log.

Basket of Zetti flowers. :) I'll put everyone's names around the outside of the petals, but to complete the flowers, I need your smiling faces added to the center. :spinny:

[Pennyquilter]

Smiling face - let me try and send one.

[theweavershand]

great idea! whats the best way to send it to you?

[Cat's Cradle]

great idea! whats the best way to send it to you?

I'd love it if you each add your pic as you get the journal. :)

[theweavershand]

cool! will do!

[Cat's Cradle]

I finally have pics to show!

Here's the cover and my "return home" page. The quote on the front:


As the SUN colors flowers, so does ART color Life. -John Lubbock

[JavaZarf]

that is pretty cool stuff
love the colors

[Cat's Cradle]

It's actually bright red with gold accents, but it shows more orange-y in these photos. Had to turn the flash off to get a decent pic, so maybe that's why. Maybe when it's not so windy outside I'll retake the pics.

[theweavershand]

gorgeous! love the colors and the trees and little zetti girl are wonderful!

[lilbad]

I thought I could buy a moley here in Lake Havasu...so far haven't been able to find one. That puts me behind...so sorry!

[Pennyquilter]

I'd love it if you each add your pic as you get the journal. :)

I will put a copy of my picture in the back slot of everyone's journal. I think it would be nice to have a picture of everyone who joined.

[Cat's Cradle]

I will put a copy of my picture in the back slot of everyone's journal. I think it would be nice to have a picture of everyone who joined.

Great idea!! I'll get some pics done of myself to include in everyone's journal as well!

[theweavershand]

great idea! so nice to put faces with names

[Pennyquilter]

My pictures are only printed off my own printer at home on regular printer paper. Will that be ok?

[Cat's Cradle]

That's fine, as I'm adding all of them tothe flowers in my Travel Log.

[alanabannana]

Amy, mailed my book to you today!

[goatgoddess]

catscradle - beautiful colors and love the little trees :)

[goatgoddess]

fighting a cold but will get the mailing list sent out to all today by pm - if you don't get it please let me know :)

[Pennyquilter]

What a dummy I am! I just re-read the rules and see we need to decorate four pages! I did three so back to the drawing board for me.

[Cat's Cradle]

catscradle - beautiful colors and love the little trees :)
Thanks. It doesn't look like that anymore.....I've edited the covers AND the Return To page. Got my Travel Log worked up as well. All the flowers are ready for their faces. :yes:

The little trees are one of my stamps. I can make sure that you get some when your moley comes around.

Are "surprise!" requests okay? I was thinking of including a "surprise!" for each artist to include in their layout.....but only if it's okay.

[goatgoddess]

that is fine - it's your molie - so whatever you would like (within reason of course <g>) is good :)

[Cat's Cradle]

Cool! It just sounds like fun to do. *eg*

[theweavershand]

melissa you have all these wonderful ideas and im still stuck trying to come up with a theme!

[Pennyquilter]

I love surprises!

[Cat's Cradle]

Amy, if you can't decide, you could always do "artist's choice" and everyone would do something in their own style. Or you could give a general idea like a color scheme. :)

[Pennyquilter]

Yeah! That's what I want, every artist's choice (their own style). Mine is almost ready to mail to Catscradle.

[theweavershand]

i seriously thought about it because i love all of your art...have some other ideas too. im narrowing it down...getting the first layers in place while i decide on the theme...colors...etc.

[theweavershand]

alana...wow you are fast! your journal is here and im not even close to finishing mine!

[Cat's Cradle]

I'm hoping to get mine out to Alana by the end of this week. I just finished up the little surprises for each of you. I still have to do my spread...

No pics, 'cause I want it to be a surprise.

[alanabannana]

I'm so glad it got there quick Amy. I am one of those people who have a list and am compulsive about putting that check next to it. Every couple of weeks I do a new ceck list on a post it for swaps I am signed up for and the due date to make sure I'm on track. I feel like I'm falling behind if I don't have that list!

Can't wait to get yours catscradle. I have to figure out what I'm going to do about a picture for me for the flower page. Will search when I see what size I need

[theweavershand]

Melissa...would you mind if i borrowed your idea for the pictures? not sure yet how i would incorporate it but id love to try if its okay with you.

[Cat's Cradle]

Amy, I don't mind at all. I need to find a photo of myself that I like and get it printed. I'm thinking about 1" for the face size will be good for the Moleys, given the page sizes. Also, if you can find a way to work the photos into your theme, I think it will make the finished journal more enjoyable.

Alana, and everyone else who's looking at photos, the flowers are about 1.5" in diameter, so if you can find your face about 1" and put that in the pocket, I can trim it and mount it to the flower.

[theweavershand]

finished my cover! still not sure where im headed with this...but its coming together!

[goatgoddess]

got our list updated with the first molie movement :)

[goatgoddess]

theweavershand - nice cover!

[Cat's Cradle]

Love your cover Amy!!

[Cat's Cradle]

got our list updated with the first molie movement :)

Mary Jean has mailed her Moley to me. I'll post when I receive it.

[Pennyquilter]

Yep! I kissed my moley good-bye for the next eight months. It will almost seem like being pregnant and will be hard to wait until it comes home again!

[theweavershand]

i didnt think about that but youre right! labor of love too!

[HeatherR]

The covers look great! I still have to finish my travel log then i'll be ready to pop it in the mail. This is going to be soooo much fun!

[theweavershand]

Here is my 3 page spread. The theme is Live Your Dreams. I'd like each of you to somehow depict your dreams for your life whether future ones or ones that are already realized.

[alanabannana]

Wow!! Love your pages Amy. What a difference to the last ones you posted where you didn't have any of the writing in there. Can't wait till it comes my way.

[Cat's Cradle]

Love it Amy!

[Cat's Cradle]

Mary Jean's moley was waiting for me in a locker at the post office. Love the way you started it!!

Now, to add my bits and send it along to Alana.

[alanabannana]

Oh I can hardly wait for it. Then I'll have to spend a week just looking at it and letting ideas come to me. And of course, it will be so difficult to start it in fear that I mess something up - just like letting go with the kids!!

[Cat's Cradle]

Here are updated pics of my cover and return to page, as well as my travel log and guidelines page.

Still haven't done my own spread; that's next. I also have not added Mary Jean's photo to her flower yet.

[lilbad]

Wow, am I ever behind! Danged vacation anyway. Looks like some goodies done!

[Pennyquilter]

You'll catch up when you get home Lilbad! Won't ya????

[goatgoddess]

Lilbad works fast - she was aways ahead of nearly everyone in the last group :)

got a monster cold yet - day 15 - I did go to the doctors yesterday and got pills so hoping to be better in a couple of days :)

[goatgoddess]

As a side note - another way to look at how many pages your spread should be would be to count out the pages for the artist that will work in your book :)

you have 28 pages (7x4) for the other artist to use for their work - counting up from the end of the accordian panels - so the pages that are left are yours to do

[goatgoddess]

theweavershand - love your spread - so cool!

catscradle - nicely done - love it!

[Cat's Cradle]

So....when I do my spread, I'll be leaving the side borders off. It's not on the guidelines page that I posted, but I'd like each of you to "bleed" over into the next spread. No more that 1/3 of the next page.

I'll include this bit so it's not confusing to everyone. :yes:

[standnngrace]

Oh wow please consider me if you do another one of these!

[Cat's Cradle]

If you subscribe to the book journals forum, you can keep a close eye on when Moley groups are forming. That's how I jumped in on the #12 Moley Bus.

[goatgoddess]

they do fill up fast - you could think about hosting one too - that way you know you have a place :)


Oh wow please consider me if you do another one of these!

[theweavershand]

how do you subscribe to the book journal forum?

[JavaZarf]

you just go to that page and bookmark it

[JavaZarf]

http://atcsforall.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=72

[theweavershand]

that still involves remembering to check it, right? cause im lousy at that. :unsure:

[1 Art Lady]

No, once you bookmark it it will come up in the threads that you subscribe to. It is an awesome feature! You can actually lurk without actually being there.... but my problem is that I can't keep my mouth shut, and jump in with a few things here and there. LOL! I did get caught in one PIF when I said that I was lurking... and then I had to play. One of the folks on that thread told me about how to do this and it was a great tip!

[theweavershand]

ok...how do i bookmark it? sorry...im usually not this dumb!

[1 Art Lady]

At the top of the page, pull down thread tools, subscribe to the thread. After that, anytime anyone posts to that thread you will be notified. Hope that helps! :)

[standnngrace]

thanks for the feed back I may look into hosting one. =)

[theweavershand]

Awesome! Thanks!

Valerie...sign me up!

[theweavershand]

debra...mine went out to you in the mail yesterday.

[goatgoddess]

and I have it - it's lovely - haven't looked thru it yet because of my germs.

still sick - this has dragged on since the 9th - 3 trips to the doctors doesn't have me any better but she seems to think I will be in a few days - sure hope so - this is getting very old

so still here just not posting everywhere right now. :)

will get the list updated shortly.

[theweavershand]

glad its there safely! so sorry you are still suffering. praying for healing and relief!

[lilbad]

63150




My book will be on it's way to Phoenix in Monday's mail! Have fun.

[alanabannana]

stunning lilbad! Can't wait to see it in person

[theweavershand]

wow, lilbad! gorgeous! absolutely beautiful!

[1 Art Lady]

lilbad, Wow! Very nice!

[Cat's Cradle]

Wow! That spread looks great!

Makes my theme pages look very eclectic.....oh, wait a minute; they're supposed to be! :unsure:

[lilbad]

Thanks...am excited to get this going!

[lilbad]

PS...put a little something in the envie for each of you!

[Phoenix]

No pressure! Ha! Lilbad, your work is so beautiful! I hope I can do your journal justice. I'll be keeping an eye out for it.

My journal should be mailed and on its way tomorrow. Just doing finishing touches and putting a few goodies together for everyone.

I'll post when it is actually in the mail.

[Phoenix]

Hi All!

My journal itself is ready to go. I have plans to get it into the mail before I go to work today. However, I came up with an idea for gifts for everyone over the weekend, and I've been working on those. They are complete, except for smaill touches. As soon as I get it all together in the package, I kiss it all goodbye for 8 months!

A question: I'm including a personal gift for each person that will not fit inside the moley back cover pocket. Should I send a separate envelope in the package with all of them, and have each of you take yours when you get the journal, or should I hold on to them and insert them into each person's journal/package when it comes to and goes from me?

So in the mail today or early tomorrow..I'll post when it is actually postal!

[Cat's Cradle]

I think it would be acceptable either way; it's just a preference as to how you want to do it. My little items fit into the back pocket, so they'll be traveling with the journal.

Finished my spread last night--boy, I was putting off finishing it; I don't want to let it go! :unsure: Taking it to the PO after the bus gets here; will post the DCN when I get back.

[theweavershand]

i hadnt thought about holding on to them and putting them in each journal...not a bad idea. mine wouldnt fit in the pocket either so i included them in a seperate baggie and am hoping that they stay with the journal throughout its travels.

[Pennyquilter]

This is my first time doing these journals and I wish I hadn't sent mine out so soon because I didn't realize you all were putting little gifts in for everyone. Well, I guess I can mail them out later, hey?

[Cat's Cradle]

You can include them in each journal that comes your way. :yes:

I really like what you sent me, BTW. The pink and black backgrounds made really nice inchie holders.

http://www.atcsforall.com/forum/gallery/images/6154/small/1_inchieholders.jpg

[Cat's Cradle]

Ugh. Not able to get out--I don't drive so well in the snow. I'll have to get hubby to take it tomorrow to the big PO in town. He works just down the street from the PO, and he usually doesn't mind running errands for me.

I'll make sure he knows to send it Priority with Delivery Confirmation.

[lilbad]

I just enclosed my little gifts in a baggie...hope they travel well. Looks like we are up and running! Woot!!

[Cat's Cradle]

When you each get my journal, don't be afraid to use any part of it as a coaster for your coffee--at least once--and get rings of coffee on it. It will go along great with the Zetti theme.

[alanabannana]

tomorrow may not be any better catscradle. You may not get out till Thursday.

[Cat's Cradle]

Alana, the university isn't always closed when public schools are. If hubby has to go in, he's said he'll go to the PO for me.

[Phoenix]

I just enclosed my little gifts in a baggie...hope they travel well. Looks like we are up and running! Woot!!

I just received yours Shirley! Wow, so beautiful! And the little baggie with the goodies, I think, will travel just fine. I have also included the gifts and everyone can take theirs along the way. Thank you for mine, by the way :)

Yep, we are up and running! I'm nervous to work on Shirley's journal, but I also am excited to contribute. Hope it comes out ok!!

:jiggy:

[Phoenix]

Oh, a quick question: Do we give i traders when we receive journals?

[theweavershand]

good question!

[goatgoddess]

sorry I'm a tad late - will send two day - should have it done in the next day or two tops!

finally got over this mess I've had since the 9th. :err:

will get our listings caught up tomorrow

on ITraders you give those when you get your journal back- to everyone that worked in your journal :)

[theweavershand]

glad you are finally feeling better. seems everyone is really suffering this winter.

[lilbad]

And, to our fearless leader, too!

[Cat's Cradle]

I started to dig my van out, but had to quit when I couldn't breathe or feel my fingers (forgot to wear gloves--DOH!), so will have the older two boys finish digging it out when they get home at 3. I left the shovel against the back bumper (snow gets HEAVY) for them. My journal (along with several other swap packages) WILL go out today!

My van was snowed in with a little over 2 feet all around and on top of it. It is now mostly clear to the back and the driver's side--also got the front windshield brushed off. Still need a little more from the back and all of the passenger side, but the boys can do that quicker together than I can alone. Plus, Bug needs me inside.

Hubby dug his car out last night, but didn't do the van. :skeptical: He knew I needed to get out today.

[Cat's Cradle]

And, to our fearless leader, too!

Our fearless leader is working in our journals as well! :jiggy:

[Cat's Cradle]

:jiggy: Got out to the PO!!! :jiggy:

Alana, look for a Small Flat Rate Priority box to come by Monday.
DCN: 0308 2690 0002 2234 5361

[HeatherR]

We have 54 snow plows in our surrounding area. Unfortunately, most of them are stuck in ditches on the side of the road. LOL. Okie driver are nerds in the snow. I miss Michigan. My hubby, myself and my 8 yr. old worked together to get our van out. . . .to find the PO is closed. :( Isn't that illegal to shut down a government agency? So much for delivering in rain, sleet and snow. I'll post mine as soon as soon as I can.

[alanabannana]

So glad I got mine out early. It's been a mess here too. I watched a delivery truck get caught in a snow bank today at the supermarket because we have too much snow and he couldn't fit thru the banks. A town truck was behind him because he was blocking traffic on the road. Will be looking for your package catscradle - more stuff coming Sat maybe our way.

[Phoenix]

I feel for all of you suffering the horrible snow situation out there! I was looking at the big storm on satelite on the internet. It is unbelievable! I have family in Mass. that I need to call. Prayers for all!

And goatgoddess, I've been thinking of you a lot and hoping you are feeling better..it seems that you have been sick sooo long! I hope you've figured out what is going and that you are on the road to recovery.

Pennyquilter (can I start calling you Mary or Mary Jean now? LOL), I forgot to post that your package is on its way, DCN 0310 1230 0002 1255 6708. PO said it should arrive Friday (tomorrow).

I am sending out good energy to everyone!

[Pennyquilter]

I'll watch for the molie Phoenix. My mother always made sure everyone called me Mary Jean. After she died I was going to go by Mary but I forget and tell people my name is Mary Jean! LOL! Some people just call me MJ.

[Phoenix]

LOL! I like MJ, so I'll go with that, ok?

[lilbad]

Phoenix, has my moley made it to you yet?

[lilbad]

Scratch that last note.....I see that it did. In Maui with a cold, so my head is full of orchids!!!

[HeatherR]

Sorry to be holding things up over here. We had more snow today! My husband had to miss work last night because the roads are so bad. My town is at the bottom of a hill and no one can get up the hill to get out. I promise I'll send as soon as I'm able.

[HeatherR]

Okay. My wonderful husband is going to brave the blizzard and mail my molie to lilbad today. :) I've included business cards in the back pocket for everyone. I will send surprises for each of you with your molie as they come my way. That gives me more time to be creative in my surprises. ;)

[alanabannana]

catscradle - your lovely moley arrived in CT today. It is wonderful and very fun and festive. My hubby was checking it out when I was opening it and he said "oh, she's really good" (loved your art work) and he was baffled about the wax paper, but fully understood once I explained. Love the inchy by the way.

[Pennyquilter]

Phoenix (Traci) your wonderful moley came today. Your cover is awesome! I didn't decorate my cover yet because I didn't know what to do. Thanks for the wonderful extra, which I won't tell what it is so the rest will be surprised.

[Phoenix]

MJ, thanks for your kind words about my moley, especially the cover. I had such a hard time with that! I'm glad you liked your gifty..;)

[Cat's Cradle]

Glad it made it! :jiggy: I really had a hard time getting her out the door; she wanted to stay home. Once I explained everything and all the fun people she'll be visiting and playing with, she practically jumped into the envie!

Glad you like the inchie. Those were all SO much fun to make!!

[Cat's Cradle]

Phoenix (Traci) your wonderful moley came today. Your cover is awesome! I didn't decorate my cover yet because I didn't know what to do. Thanks for the wonderful extra, which I won't tell what it is so the rest will be surprised.

Some of us already know. ;) But I won't tell. I'm excited to get Traci's journal next! :jiggy:

[Pennyquilter]

I hope to work in it this coming week and get it mailed on to you Melissa.
MJ

[goatgoddess]

PQ you can just put them in that back pocket of each journal after you are done working on it - just mark it as this is for .............
but you don't have to do gifts - it's just if you want to. :)


This is my first time doing these journals and I wish I hadn't sent mine out so soon because I didn't realize you all were putting little gifts in for everyone. Well, I guess I can mail them out later, hey?

[Cat's Cradle]

My 14 y/o son helped me make the little envelopes for each of you. I admit, I don't feel it was much, but I didn't want to do empty. I have something else in mind as I get each journal. :yes:

Alana, you should have an idea of what I'm hinting at since you have my journal in hand. I'm waiting to get each journal so I can see what colors I need to use.

[goatgoddess]

mailed Rec


goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->home

Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->home

Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->home

lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->home

HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->home

Alanabannana->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->home

Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->home

Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR-->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana -> home

[goatgoddess]

I'm also waiting and tucking my gift in as I get your journals (because I'm sooooooooo far behind)

should be ready to mail my journal tomorrow - fingers crossed - Heather I will mail 2 day to you.

please take a quick look at the mailing posting and let me know if this is correct or if I've missed something. :)

[lilbad]

Debra, my journal is with Phoenix if u want to update this.

[Phoenix]

Yes it it, and gorgeous!

[Cat's Cradle]

Finally getting around to posting pics of my Zetti spread and the pocket. The coloring of the pocket is very close to the actual color of the cover.

[Pennyquilter]

Nice, Melissa!

[theweavershand]

Awesome, Melissa!

[alanabannana]

ah, and I have the journal in hand and can confirm it is wonderful Melissa! I gessoed (is that a word) your pages for me, now to decide what base color(s)

[Cat's Cradle]

Thanks y'all. I don't usually do that much with paint, so doing the Zetti was really stretching myself artistically.

I can't wait to see what all of you add!!

[Pennyquilter]

I know some of you showed what you did for your first pages. Are we allowed to post what we have made for someone else or is that to be kept secret?

[Cat's Cradle]

In most groups I've scouted, the artists post the spreads they've done in other Moleys.

I'd post what I've got for you, MJ, but it's just a pearly purple background at the moment. I have some ideas of what I'm gonna do to finish it, but haven't implemented them yet. Need to sketch before I paint.

BTW, your spread is really pretty!! I love how you used the same background and did different things on each page. And the chalkboard is genius!

I'm going to use purple for your little extra, since you used purple in your spread. You'll get to see it when you get your Moley back. :D Alana will get to see it in a couple of weeks!

[Cat's Cradle]

I need everyone to answer a couple of things for me:



Are you allergic to or sensitive to wool? (If so, try not to handle my Moley cover too much)
What's your favorite color(s)?

[Pennyquilter]

Not really allergic to wool - maybe itch a little.
Favorite color - PINK.
Can't wait to see your moley cats!

[Cat's Cradle]

In that case, I'll use pink with a bit of purple. :yes:

[theweavershand]

no problems with wool...favorite color is red but blue and purple are tied for a close second.

[Cat's Cradle]

Red with purple for Amy. Check. ;)

[alanabannana]

Wool is a ok for me. Use to raise and show sheep in my earlier years. mmmm favorite color - like green and blues

[Cat's Cradle]

Gotcha. Green and blue.

[Phoenix]

No problems with wool, and purple is my favorite color.

[Cat's Cradle]

Thanks Traci.

BTW, my 11 y/o son is Tracey. Good name. :yes:

[HeatherR]

Wool doesn't bother me. My favorite colors are lime green and turquois.

[HeatherR]

Shirley,
According to usps tracking, my journal is waiting at the post office for your creative touch. The site said:
We attempted to deliver your item at 10:10 am on February 07, 2011 in EUGENE, OR 97404 and a notice was left. You may arrange redelivery by visiting www.usps.com/redelivery or calling 800-ASK-USPS, or may pick up the item at the Post Office indicated on the notice. If this item is unclaimed after 15 days then it will be returned to the sender.
The tracking number is 0310 2010 0000 4537 8749

[Pennyquilter]

OH dear, Shirley is still in Hawaii.

[HeatherR]

Lucky duck! Hopefully she'll be back in the next 8 days. I'd hate to have to resend it.

[Pennyquilter]

I think she is there all of February. She yaps on the yapping site once a day.

[lilbad]

We will be home March 3rd and having mail held for us. I don't think it will be a problem.

[goatgoddess]

finally got mine out yesterday and it's on it's way

got mine off to such a late start - everyone please feel free to put mine at the back and do the current one if you run out of time - I'll just plan on mine getting back a mth or two after the rest

got pictures too - will have to post those later - it's been crazy busy since I'm not sick anymore <G>

tracking number is 0496 9008 9280 0506 7050

..

[goatgoddess]

mailed Rec


goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->home

Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->home

Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->home

lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->home

HeatherR->lilbad(mail held till her return)->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana ->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->home

Alanabannana->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->home

Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana->Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR->lilbad->home

Theweavershand->goatgoddess->HeatherR-->lilbad->Phoenix->Pennyquilter->Catscradle->Alanabannana -> home

[HeatherR]

Debra, I had your awesome moley in my mailbox today. :) It looks wonderful. I can't wait to add my touch.

[Cat's Cradle]

Finally gotten past my block!! I know now exactly what I'm gonna put on this awesome pearly purple background in MJ's journal! :jiggy:

I also have some really nice silk yarn that I'm gonna use for some of the surprises. Unfortunately, I only have three colors in the silk, so I'm going stash diving for other colors. I will post after I get the first one done, so it won't be a surprise any more, but that's okay. I'll get you all drooling to get your Moleys back. ;)

[Pennyquilter]

Hey Cats, can't wait. I'm ready to send you the next one, but will wait until closer to March 1.

[Cat's Cradle]

You can go ahead and send it if you're ready. Yours will be done first, then on to Traci's!

[goatgoddess]

HeatherR - thanks for the update!

Theweavershand's book is on the top of my list of things to do this weekend :)

[theweavershand]

woohoo! cant wait to see the fantastic art you add to it!

[Cat's Cradle]

MJ, I noticed that your spread is all painted. Are you wanting all of us to paint in your moley? Or is collage okay?

[Pennyquilter]

collage is fine. Remember - artist's choice - do what you are best at doing. Thanks for asking.

[Cat's Cradle]

Thanks for answering so quickly. That really helps me a lot, as I like to paint backgrounds, but that's about my limit for painting--unless it's a small ceramic figure, that is. :jiggy: I'll post a picture before I mail it off to Alana. I should be done by Wednesday or Thursday next week.

My kids have next week off, so it's a perfect time for doing art-y stuff with them!

[alanabannana]

oh no, the moley's will be overtaking my house. I have the background painted on yours Melissa and some images ready to collage on. Just have to find the time now to do that. We've tapped 25 taps this year for the first time for maple syrup and been overwhelmed by that after work into the late hours this week. Right now we have about 40 gal of sap to cook down today when I get home from work. Hopefully weather will cooperate, getting very windy. This is our first time doing this, so we are learning as we go.

[Cat's Cradle]

At least syrup season is short. ;) We're thinking about doing some maple trees once we build and have more room to plant them. I know it'll be some time before they're ready to tap, but we're thinking about it.

I love buying the local syrup rather than the stuff brought in to Sam's.

[Phoenix]

Ok, I am so nervous about working in Shirley's book. ACK. Her theme is Irish/English cottages, and I don't collage, so I'm going to draw (I think), but she is soo very talented, as you'll see when you get it, and to do a four page drawing is very daunting. I want it to be lovely to match her theme. Maybe I need to break it down and simplify it some how. If I can't zentangle it and am afraid to draw and color it, I'm doooomed! LOL.

OK, I just had to get that off my chest (shaking fist at Shirley) Why do you have to be so darn talented!!! I know I'll have this problem will all of journals, but this is literally my first journal in my first moley swap...thus the nerves :eek:

I've been trying to design this for weeks. But I have a small break in projects coming up, so I'll have more time to devote to it before the end of the month.

Wish me luck!

[goatgoddess]

maybe it will help you to work out the basic design on a scrap pcs of paper before you commit to lilbads book - your art is wonderful - you can do it :)

[Cat's Cradle]

Traci, I've only gotten to the part of knowing WHAT I'm going to put into MJ's journal! Haven't actually done more than paint the first background color. :swoon: Still gotta draw and cut out my images for collaging.

I am, however, making good progress on my other Moley project for the current book. :yes: So I don't feel so bad about not working on the pages at the moment. :twitcy:

[alanabannana]

Melissa, here is your journal so far. Still need to add some "bling" and seal it a few times. It is amazing how much time and deliberation goes into doing someone else's journal. Hope you like it so far

[theweavershand]

thats awesome, alana! im working on yours today too! i know what you mean...so much thought and consideration and hope that it comes out brilliantly!

[Cat's Cradle]

:jiggy: That's looking awesome Alana!!

[Pennyquilter]

Alana, I love the pages you did for Melissa. You can do something like that for mine and I would love it to death!

[alanabannana]

ah shucks, you ladies are making me blush. Glad you like it Melissa.*** Sigh of relief!**

[Cat's Cradle]

Nice thing about Zetti: it's hard to go wrong! :jiggy:

MJ, I've got the second background layer on your journal now. So it's now a dingy pearly purple instead of just pearly purple. I added a wash of walnut ink--perfect for what I have in mind!!