by Great Joy Studio | Sep 19, 2010 | Home Arts, Quilting & Fabric
Don’t you just love a rainy day, keeping tucked away, and cozy inside? That’s what we have here following a noisy night. I woke up at 2:30am to the loudest clash of thunder I’ve ever heard and literally felt all the way to my bones! I’m somewhat eager to check out all the nearby trees this morning to be sure all are still standing.
A good day to begin working on a project, eh? Maybe a “Hair-raising Halloween” pillow?


by Great Joy Studio | Sep 17, 2010 | Personal Touch




As I continue to wrap things up in the studio, unplug from the tech tools, put some finishing touches on two new lines, things are beginning to feel calmer. Yesterday, I even took time to meander around our property a bit, a favorite, especially as fall approaches. Turtles, toadstools, walking sticks, that’s what I’ve been missing! This little guy was trying to get away from me and the camera among my overgrown garden.


Then, just a while ago, I glanced out the studio window and noticed these two young deer chomping on some clover. I’ve spotted them several times lately, very close to the house! Love that. Oops, they heard me.



All summer, I tend to stay indoors since I struggle in the intense heat and humidity. I’m always uplifted and renewed when I can get out and enjoy some of God’s little woodsy creatures.

Chirp, chirp!
by Great Joy Studio | Sep 13, 2010 | Art News
…at the end of the tunnel! Finally, I am completing work on the last of my actual commitments. I am strongly sensing the need for a change. Not only creatively speaking but a total lifestyle “makeover!” I am ready for it too.

You may remember this photo I posted last February. I had barely started on a new project seen here on the drawing board. In the months to follow there would be many challenges (work related) ahead. A really great program was the result but I confess, there were times throughout the year that I considered throwing in the art licensing towel.

I’m not at liberty to reveal the new line just yet but look forward to sharing the interesting details surrounding this art group. Product will be delivering soon and I can then share images and availability. An artist’s personality may not always be suited for business, which is the conclusion that I’ve come to accept for myself. However, I’m grateful to have recently started working with the first member of a new team. Yeah, the Cavalry has arrived!

by Great Joy Studio | Sep 8, 2010 | Field Trip, Home Arts
“Go Fly A Kite” was in the subject line of an e-mail I received from my son in law with a photo (artistically altered) attached. During our beautiful but breezy weekend, he took our rascally little guy out for his first kite flying experience. It caused me to recall my dad doing the same with us…..once upon a time.
Remember the trill of holding on to a soaring kite, once you had success of actually getting it up in the air?

by Great Joy Studio | Sep 6, 2010 | Home Arts, Personal Touch
Labor Day – Weeeee, the holiday weekend! Ours was filled with a wedding, a brunch and absolutely perfect weather. I enjoyed a restful and fun few days with family and good friends. I hope you enjoyed yours to.

by Great Joy Studio | Sep 3, 2010 | Personal Touch, Spiritual
Still looking toward a time to rest. Just around the corner I think?

"An Appointed Time" fabric collection
“Come to me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt.11:28.
by Great Joy Studio | Sep 2, 2010 | Field Trip
Take time to smell the coffee! Isn’t that how the phrase goes? Yesterday, I was able to do just that. I enjoyed a visit with a couple of dear friends and a cup of coffee on a rainy afternoon. A nice retreat from the heavy work regime. We all agreed it had been too many months between what use to be a more frequent occurrence. This post is for you Roxanne!

by Great Joy Studio | Aug 14, 2010 | Home Arts, Projects, Quilting & Fabric
Speaking of fall…….
Last April I had the privilege of working with Fons & Porter’s “Love of Quilting” on a couple of Halloween projects. Featured in their Sept./ Oct. issue, which just hit news stands, is my “Hair-Raising Halloween” fabric and projects. Kits for the quilt are available through F & P and fabric is in quilt shops now for both of these fun home/party decorations. Fabric-Quilting Treasures. Quilter-Elizabeth Cechettini.

The banner is an easy, no sew project that even a non quilter like me was able to construct. Not a bit scary, well a little, but I hope you’ll still try one. Step by step instructions are included in the issue. I can’t wait to put both of these vintage inspired items to good use for the tiny goblin guests this fall season.




by Great Joy Studio | Aug 6, 2010 | Personal Touch
As a kid the summer break, naturally was my favorite but now, blacht! The heat, the humidity, the bugs! What’s to like, I ask you? A tan? Oh yes, and homegrown tomatoes. At this stage of life, summer anymore, to me, is scary. August, hmpf, one month to go.

by Great Joy Studio | Aug 4, 2010 | Personal Touch
Happy Birthday Jackie! Have your cake and eat it too.
