Imagine creating a handmade book filled with techniques, layers, and details that you will treasure forever. Roxanne Evans Stout is back on our creative network and she has created a course that will guide you step by step to create a gorgeous artistic book inspired by color and light. Early Registration of $38 Is Ending on Tuesday, March 5th 10 pm MST for Daydreams and Window Light with Roxanne Evans Stout. After March 5th at 10 pm MST, the price will be $52. …
Our Whole 2019 Live Studio Workshop Schedule | Just Announced!
When we bought this home and land three years ago it was for the gathering of creatives and non-creatives alike. We knew it was to be a gathering place and it has fulfilled that desire and promise over and over again. We are so excited to announce our full 2019 studio schedule. For many our studio workshops are a yearly journey and maybe you have been waiting for the right event to make your own trip here. You will create …
Full Studio Schedule for 2019 Will Be Announced Tomorrow!
It is almost time to announce our full studio schedule for 2019! All guest teachers have never taught at our studio before and we can’t wait to share them with you. Registration will open for ALL workshops and payment plans will be available. I can’t wait to see so many of you at our studio, home, and land this year! Registration will open on February 21st at 8 am MST. We will be sure to share all of the …
Toes in the Sand, Sun on Your Face and Paint on Your Fingertips | Cayman Islands Art Retreat!
Toes in the sand, sun on your face and paint on your fingertips. Yes, it is as dreamy as it sounds! Imagine traveling to the paradise of the Cayman Islands, being picked up from the airport and then brought to your luxury villa at the beach. For the next five nights, you will then be pampered with incredible food created by a personal chef, toes in the sand, beach and pool access day or night, connection and community with …
Early Registration Open! The Art of Connection with Lauren Rudolph
Imagine painting a portrait with layer after layer of color and detail. Imagine learning so well how to sketch and bring emotion into your work that your art just gets richer and draws others in. Imagine an online course that guides you to your next level as an artist. Early Registration for The Art of Connection | Painting an Expressive Portrait with Lauren Rudolph is open for $38 and will go to the full price of $52 on March 16th …
We Just Opened a Second Weekend | Creatively Made Business Live Workshop!
We are so honored that our Creatively Made Business August Workshop sold out in days! We are opening a second workshop that will be September 5th-8th and we can not wait to welcome you to our studio, home, and land! One of the truest truths in my life is that I love talking business and how to leverage what makes you unique to thrive. Gathering women in this way creates incredible community, clarity in businesses and these deeply strong and …
Meet The Sponsors | Creatively Made Business Palm Springs
I live in a creative world that has predominately been created, supported and sustained by women. I am constantly reminded how much of a powerful impact we have when we work with one another. It has been through these collaborations with other women that I have not only found my way in this creative business but has been able to thrive because of their support system. I always remind people that in life and business…we cannot do it alone. We …
Early Registration Ending! Painting the Light | Expressive Watercolor with Christie Drahnak
As creatives, we long to learn and grow but to also honor our gifts. That honoring comes in making time for creating in whatever form you are pulled. Creativity is a deep, deep calling and there are always a million excuses not to answer. Are we worthy of taking the time or spending our resources? We often can ask ourselves what else “should” we be doing instead. Will we even make anything good? Why do we forget that the creating …
Early Registration Open! Daydreams and Window Light with Roxanne Evans Stout
Imagine creating a handmade book filled with techniques, layers and details that you will treasure forever. Roxanne Evans Stout is back on our creative network and she has created a course that will guide you step by step to create a gorgeous artistic book inspired by color and light. Early Registration for Daydreams and Window Light with Roxanne Evans Stout is open for $38 and will go to the full price of $52 on March 5th at 10 pm MST. The course …
Our Next Creatively Made Business Live Workshop | Registration Is Open!
One of the truest truths in my life is that I love talking business and how to leverage what makes you unique to thrive. Gathering women in this way creates incredible community, clarity in businesses and these deeply strong and talented women are leaving with a PLAN! We do not have to do this alone! We just finished our Creatively Made Business workshop in Palm Springs last night and our hearts are FULL! This is the best gig in …
The First Live Workshop of 2019 | Stephanie Ackerman
Join Stephanie Ackerman in beautiful Castle Rock, Colorado on April 5-6, 2019 for a two-day art workshop! Our studio is light-filled and surrounded by wooded property that lends itself to exploring, creating and relaxing. It is our heart’s desire that your time on our land and studio brings you rest and the space to connect with your ideas and creativity. When you arrive on Friday morning you will be welcomed with mimosas as we find our places and meet …
Early Registration Open! Painting the Light | Expressive Watercolor with Christie Drahnak
As creatives, we long to learn and grow but to also honor our gifts. That honoring comes in making time for creating in whatever form you are pulled. Creativity is a deep, deep calling and there are always a million excuses not to answer. Are we worthy of taking the time or spending our resources? We often can ask ourselves what else “should” we be doing instead. Will we even make anything good? Why do we forget that the creating …
Leaps of dreams and finances are hard. I know.
Leaps of dreams and finances are hard. I know. I remember years ago the first time I talked to Kelly about taking a creative trip to France just for me. I remember reading the details and crying because it seemed so wonderful and inspiring and SO WHAT MY HEART NEEDED. Kelly told me that he didn’t know where we would find the money to go but that I had to go. He could see how much this trip was calling …
Semi-Annual 50% Off Sale | Art + Lifestyle Online Workshops
We only do this twice a year and this will not happen again until Summer! For the next 48 hours we are having our Semi Annual 50% off Online Class Sale! USE CODE: JO50 This is the perfect time to stock up on all of those online classes that you have been dreaming about taking. We have so many courses that are on sale for the first time and for the first time, ALL COURSES are Included! First Time it …
Join Me In North Carolina In 5 Weeks | Donna Downey Studios
I will be coming back to the Donna Downey Studios and we will have two days to play with storytelling through our art with fabric dying, journal making, sketching, paint, collage and more. Whether your subject matter is landscapes, portraits, or still life, you will learn how to incorporate a story into your art. This will be the first time I teach this workshop live and I can’t wait to have you join me! I am honored to be teaching …
Registration Closes Tomorrow! | Live Business Workshop Palm Springs
Everything your business needs is everything you have always been! It took me most of my life to let that truth sink in and your business is the same way! Your business needs your gifts, your passions and your story to be set apart! If you are ready to take your business and dreams to the next level then I hope you will join me this coming January for my next live business workshop in Palm Springs, CA! (for those that …
Begins Tuesday! Studying Under Berthe Morisot with Michelle Wooderson
If you love to learn, study, practice and get into the head of an artist then you are in for the most wonderful creative adventure with Michelle Wooderson. So many of you have been asking for more Studying Under The Masters courses and if you know Michelle (or once you know her) you will know why she was the most perfect artist to lead the next one. Michelle has a deep love of learning and exploring art techniques and she …
Where to Sleep, Eat, and Shop In Round Top, Texas
This fall I was in Round Top, Texas during antiques week to teach an art class, speak at an event and for two book signings. I have wanted to come to antiques week for years and with the beautiful invitations from Tara Royer Steele and Holly Kuhn I was eagerly packing my bags and leaving room for vintage treasures. I had so many questions about where we shopped, ate and stayed that I wanted to do a fun post sharing …
Holiday Housewalk | 2018
Thank you Jen Rizzo for inviting me year after year to be included with some of the most talented men and women I know in your gorgeous holiday housewalk. Thank you for allowing this artist that loves home so much to hang out with all of these design and DIY bloggers that make creating home an art. Guys, I have been a part of Jen’s housewalk since the beginning! That means this is my eighth year! So crazy and fun …
Gift Giving Guide | 2018
Each year I love sharing some of the products that I am loving in my own life and I believe in supporting other small business owners and giving these products as gifts too! This is why it is so important to small business owners like me that when you love our products you share with your friends and family. You sharing is the best thing you can do to bless us. Here are some of the products and small business …
Give Thanks! Black Friday in the Shop!
We hope you had the most wonderful Thanksgiving. Whether your day was quiet or you had a house full, our hope is that you remember how much you are loved and how thankful we are for you. For the next three days everything in our online shop is 30% off! Use code GIVETHANKS at checkout. Whether you are looking for art supplies, vintage fabric handbags, jewelry, art or a vintage find…come on over! We will get it wrapped up right …
Two Seasonal Online Courses 40% Off | No Coupon Required
It is the night before Thanksgiving and for many this is the beginning of the Christmas and holiday season. The day after Thanksgiving we go as a family to get our tree and each year the decorations get simpler and the meaning of the holiday becomes more known. We open our home more than every before and we are learning that gathering others is one of the sweetest ways to love others around us. We would like to offer you …
Begins Friday! Figuratively Speaking with Dina Wakley
Figuratively Speaking begins on Friday! How many of us want to find freedom in our art? I know that creating authentic art that tells a story with loose lines and brush strokes is what I am always working towards. I am so thrilled to share that Dina Wakley is back with a brand new online course and like each of her courses it is filled with COLOR, intentional marks, and storytelling! If you want to get out of your own head …
Begins Wednesday! | Storytellers and Mavericks with Jeanne Oliver
I believe that if you want others to feel something when they see your art then YOU have to feel something, share something, or work through something when you create your art. I promise you that it shows in what you put out into the world. If you want to create art that evokes emotion and feeling then I hope you will join me in Storytellers & Mavericks. Join me as we create a gorgeous dyed and stitched journal, use natural dyes with papers …
Begins Monday! | Mixed Media Directions with Rae Missigman
Rae Missigman is the artist that keeps pushing the boundaries of creativity and she has the heart of a teacher. This is such an incredible combination and what always has students going away wanting more. Lucky us that Rae is back with more! She is bringing our creative network a brand new course that focuses on words and your creative process. It is guaranteed to be colorful fun! Rae’s course, Mixed Media Directions | A Path to Artful Discovery begins Monday, November 12th, …
If Adventure, Creating and Travel Speak To You {I have something for you}
Sometimes we get to be wild explorers and travel far away, other times we can connect with other creatives not far from home and at other times we have the joy of hunkering down right where we live and creating among our day to day life. Each one of these are life giving and creative building travels. I love that my travels have allowed me to build beautiful new friendships, sketch among stained glass windows and old wooden pews, sip …
A Sold Out Workshop on a Sold Out Ship {one spot just opened}
******ONE spot just opened for this sold out art workshop on this sold out ship****** Ever since I have been a little girl I have been a lover of history, architecture, art and I have ALWAYS known…I would travel. I am greatly driven by my desire to learn, explore and to discover more of this world. My family makes choices all of the time that will make it possible for us to travel more and to have less of other …
Studio Video Under Construction {first look at our new studio}
Hello Everyone! Our new doors just went in the new studio today and I thought it was the perfect time to give you a first look at our under construction studio! Hopefully, we will be painting the walls this weekend and the cedar planks will go up on the ceiling next week. We are getting there but still soooo much work to do! Thanks so much for looking and cheering us on!
Danielle Donaldson is Teaching at the Jeanne Oliver Studios! {August 2016}
August in Colorado is pretty dreamy and I hope you will join me at my studio for a one day workshop with watercolor artist Danielle Donaldson. Come to my home and studio for an art workshop all about lots of light, room to move, color falling off the paper, beauty everywhere you look, good food, lots of laughter and teaching that will grow your art. Danielle is one of the most talented artists and teachers I know. You can’t leave …
I am teaching at Donna Downey’s Studio in 2017!
I have been waiting patiently to announce that I will be teaching next year at Donna Downey’s studio! I only travel to teach 4 times a year because I love to be home and with my family. When I travel it is because I KNOW it will be an amazing experience for myself and all of the women coming. I am honored to be teaching at Donna’s studio and I would LOVE to create with you! The Details: Product Description …
The Living Studio Along the Seine River Cruise
Ever since I have been a little girl I have been a lover of history, architecture, art and I have ALWAYS known…I would travel. I am greatly driven by my desire to learn, explore and to discover more of this world. My family makes choices all of the time that will make it possible for us to travel more and to have less of other things. We want to collect adventures and memories and not just things. I have an …
Winners Have Been Announced For Our First Live Workshop {Yes, I said Winners}
We recently asked you to enter {or enter for someone else} for one free spot to our SOLD OUT first live workshop in our new studio. We received hundreds and hundreds of entries! We are a few days late of announcing the winner but it was a bigger undertaking than we planned. So sorry for the delay. We read each entry and with laughter, tears and sometimes a heavy heart we have chosen not one but THREE winners! We couldn’t …
We Would Like To Give Away One Spot To Our SOLD OUT Workshop! {Our Way To Say Thank You}
How do we celebrate and say “thank you” all at once? Our upcoming workshop in our new studio is SOLD OUT (thank you, thank you) and we want to celebrate that but also give a gift to one of you. We know that it is a luxury to be able to go to a retreat. It is the sacrifice of time and resources to give yourself the gift of an art retreat. We also feel like this studio, home …
Our First Workshop in Our New Studio {registration is now open}
It is with a grateful heart, a little bit of butterflies and a whole lot of excitement that we are announcing that registration is now open for our first workshop in our new studio! Join me in beautiful Castle Rock, Colorado on June 24-25, 2016 for a two day art mixed media and art journaling workshop. Our new studio is light filled and surrounded by wooded property that lends itself to exploring, creating and relaxing. You will have opportunities during …
Reflections: Paint Your Story Art Journaling Workshop {come and meet the guest artists}
All of my courses come from an authentic place of walking through something, discovery and/or personal growth. One of the biggest lessons I learned creatively in 2015 was that it was time to really tell my story. To hold nothing back and to start letting it spill all over the page. There is art I have never shared and maybe art I will choose not to share. That is your freedom also. Getting your story out and letting it guide …
I Am Teaching At Camp Create! {tickets go on sale Monday}
I am SOOO excited to announce that I will be a part of Meg Duerkson’s Camp Create! Here are all of the details! We are having Camp CREATE April 6 – 10, 2016! Tickets will go on sale this Monday – November 16 at noon CST. Here is more about Camp Create in Meg’s words… in 2014 i began dreaming and praying about what kind of place this camp could be… CAMP CREATE: – a place where women could enjoy a longer …
The Living Studio Normandy {Part One}
Planning the Living Studio Normandy with Cat Bude was such a blast and just thinking about being back in France made all of the work completely worth it! If I was coming to France I should probably spend a few extra days in Paris, right? I should also play and explore with my friend Junelle Jacobsen, right? I knew you would agree! This is the sweet and simple boutique hotel I have stayed in my past few visits. It …
Let’s Make Art Together in 2016!
My travel and teaching schedule will be much closer to home next year but I do have a few extra special workshops that I want you to know about! Registration just opened for Sketching and Sculpting and it is almost sold out. Join me for a two-day workshop all about finding your sketching style and then incorporating your style into a sculpture. We will play with charcoal, inks, watercolor pencils, pastels and more and fill a morning with some of …
Sketching and Sculpting With Me at Studio Cresendoh {create with me in Cali}
I am thrilled to announce that I will be back at Studio Cresendoh teaching a two day workshop this coming January! Jenny’s studio is intimate, has great light, there is always lots of laughter and it is surrounded by the coolest coffee shops and restaurants. Teaching in her studio is way too much fun to be called work! Come and hear all of the details! Sketching and Sculpting Join me for a two-day workshop all about finding your sketching …
Where Do I Begin? {if I love decorating, diy, cooking and homemaking}
There are so many awesome online courses out there and sometimes it can be hard to know which one to choose! I know that your time and money is so important and that is why I wanted to make finding the RIGHT online course easier for you. The first step we did was create an online digital catalog that would allow you to look at most of our courses all at once and in a beautiful format. The …
When Italy Steals Your Heart {Again}
As I was making my way to my plane at JFK my mind was focused on a sick boy at home, camp details I was missing, empty arms that I wanted to be in and just the tug I feel anytime I leave my family. I had a nine hour plane ride ahead of me with the other teacher and at this point we were basically strangers. By the time I got to my seat Stephanie Ackerman was already there …
Creative Girl and a Book Giveaway | Way to Go Danielle!
Sometimes you see a person you adore work their butt off and create MAGIC! That is exactly what my girl Danielle Donaldson has done! It has been one of the most exciting things to see one of the most talented women I know create her first book. To celebrate the release of Creative Girl (currently a #1 best seller on Amazon) I am giving away one copy of the book. Can you hear a woop woop all the way from …
Extra Special Retreats Coming…
I love to travel, explore new parts of the world, try new foods, take in the local culture, take my time in an art museum and find the perfect place to create. Creating art and traveling has helped me to grow as an artist in ways I could have never imaged. Recently, one of my students was talking to a group of women and shared about my workshops. Her words made their way back to me and she later wrote …
Come and Create With Danielle Donaldson {coming to Denver this summer}
I am so lucky to be surrounded by amazingly strong and creative women. I guess luck doesn’t have anything to do with it. I am picky and spend my time and energy building up healthy and loving relationships. My life is sweeter, funnier, more creative and more sarcastic because Danielle Donaldson is in it! If you live in the Denver area (or you want to come in for a nice weekend) you are in for a real treat because Danielle …
A Still Heart and Loud Laughter {Part Two}
I can often be heard saying that I feel peace in the country and alive in the city. I have had multiple international trips where I have purposely chosen to spend time in both the city and countryside…and the combo is magic! My trip began in Gardenstown, Scotland in a tiny fishing village by the sea. I shared a peek into my time in a previous post. When it was time to say goodbye to the sea and our cab …
The Living Studio Along the Danube {Prague, Vienna, Budapest and more}
Ever since I have been a little girl I have been a lover of history, architecture, art and I have ALWAYS known…I would travel. I am greatly driven by my desire to learn, explore and to discover more of this world. My family makes choices all of the time that will make it possible for us to travel more and to have less of other things. We want to collect adventures and memories and not just things. I have an …
A Still Heart and Loud Laughter {part one}
It is such a rare and special treat for me to get away to create art just for me. No teaching. No responsibilities. Just the joy of being still. {A piece I created while in Scotland from my sketches of Crovie and a vintage photograph of two women from the villages} I prefer to travel with my family so to take this kind of time and money for just me is hard too but so needed. I homeschool our children …
Is The World Your Studio? {a glimpse into Savannah}
A few years ago when I came up with the concept behind The Living Studio I had hopes of traveling with women, connecting with different cities and creating outside the studio. My heart’s desire was to encourage women to get out of their comfort zone and to implement daily practicing. I wanted us to become those we had maybe admired for years in the parks, museums, cafes. To become those that were creating whenever the opportunity arose. As of this …
Is It You?
I bet you thought I forgot? I almost did:-) The winner of the Studying Under the Masters III giveaway is… michelletempletonart commented: February 23, 2015 at 4:16 pm (Edit) I am inspired by all the artists and makers who are balancing motherhood with their creative practice. I’m already registered for this and really looking forward to it! Congratulations! Please email us at jeanneoliverdesigns@gmail.com and we will get your goodies out to you. **The winnings must be claimed by March …
Guess Who Is Teaching a One Day Denver Workshop?
You girls close to Denver are just about to make your summer WAY more fun! This August I am hosting one of my closest friends and artist extraordinaire for a one day workshop in Denver! Join Danielle Donaldson in one of the most inspiring spaces and learn how to make the cover image of her new book Creative Girl: Mixed Media Techniques for an Artful Life. This class has not been taught any place else and you will not only …
Be Courageously Foolish {Don’t always be the voice of reason}
{Print handed out by Shannan Martin at Hope Spoken} I love a good adventure. I grew up in Illinois, went to college in Alabama, moved to Colorado, moved to Washington DC and later moved back to Colorado. When I visit any place that I connect with I am instantly on Zillow or Realtor.com looking at property. I have a bit of a gypsy heart and I like that about me. I also work hard, consistently show up to do what …
Take Your Business To The Next Level {Giveaway Too}
I have a heart for women. I am constantly amazed at the depth, quality, beauty, talent and strength of women. I had promised myself when I first started my business that if I ever figured this whole thing out (and I am still learning) that I would share how I did it. Along the way I have always tried to answer emails, encourage and support other small business owners (and dreamers). I had questions at the beginning and I wish …
Do You Celebrate? {or just move on}
A very good friend of mine just recently finished writing her first book. It was months of writing, projects, photographs and edits. After everything had been submitted to the editor I know her whole household let out a sigh of relief. So many things were falling a part in other ways to get a project like a book completed. What was next? What needed to get done? I recognized myself in my friend right away and almost yelled, “STOP!”. I …
When Your Gifts Lead To Dreams Coming True {Lara Blair}
Sometimes your path seems so clear and other times your gifts take you on a journey you never could have imagined. There are times in your life when you know without a shadow of a doubt that you are doing EXACTLY what you were made for…and then you wake up one day and know it is time to move on. It was perfect at the time. It was real and needed and fulfilling. It opened up the whole world to …
Sometimes I Need to Step Away {To See Better} Part II
{Part I HERE} As I step off the plane I tell a young mom how good her baby was. I remember how hard those flights use to be. We are always harder on ourselves in those situations than anyone around you is. You only know that AFTER you have had babies. I make my way to baggage claim and wait for my friend, Margie, to pick me up. I am in a day earlier than all of my friends coming …
Sometimes I Need To Step Away {To See Better} Part One
I have had a ticket to the Altitude Design Summit for months (Good thing because it sells out every year). I have had hotel reservations at the beautiful Grand America for just as long. I have known that I would get to spend four days with four incredible women. I canceled my trip a 1,000 times in my head. In my head I called them up and just told them the truth….I can’t get everything done and there is no …
My Art Saves Story {Thank you Crescendoh}
My “Art Saves” story was featured all last week and I wanted to share it with those of you that didn’t have a chance to read it on the Crescendoh site. A Constant Companion • by Jeanne Oliver Art has been my companion for as long as I can remember. It has not always shown itself in the same medium but it has been there just the same. As a little girl art has followed me under a shading tree …
Blogger Get Together {this weekend}
It is almost here! I am looking forward to hanging out with those of you that have signed up for the local blogger get together! We will meet at The Barn (here in Castle Rock) at 6:00 this Saturday night (April 2). The Barn will be open JUST FOR US until 7:00! At 7:00 we will head to Sienna, across the street, for dinner. I know this will be a wonderful time for us all to get to know each …
Haute Handbags
A few months ago I was approached by one of the editors of the magazine Haute Handbags. This is one of the magazines published by Stampington & Company. They wanted to feature one of my purses and have me write a tutorial. I was thrilled. I got my copy in the mail last week..but you can get your copy April 1. It will have step by step instructions on how to make the badge that is attached to my Lulu …
Training Is The Opposite of Hoping
I am so excited that you are here! Every Wednesday in February I will be doing a post on DREAMS. Our beautiful, wonderful, amazing dreams! The first thing I want you to do is to truly open you heart and your mind to the dreams that are stored within you. Please do not compare yourself or your dreams to anyone! Your dreams are unique and special…just like you! Grab a journal, notebook or sheets of paper. As we go along …
Blogging For Bliss
This is the title of Tara Frey's new book that will be released August 4. Isn't that a great title?! If I didn't love blogging I would have stopped a long time ago. I am constantly amazed, inspired and encouraged by all of you. I have cried, laughed out loud, prayed, nodded my head in agreement because of the words you have written. I get emails every week saying the same thing to me. I think blogging is a powerful force. …
Early Registration Ending! Studying Under Berthe Morisot with Michelle Wooderson
If you love to learn, study, practice and get into the head of an artist then you are in for the most wonderful creative adventure with Michelle Wooderson. So many of you have been asking for more Studying Under The Masters courses and if you know Michelle (or once you know her) you will know why she was the most perfect artist to lead the next one. Michelle has a deep love of learning and exploring art techniques and she …
Begins Sunday! Sacred Vestments | Expressive Portraits and Figures with Kate Thompson
The inspiring and prolific Kate Thompson is back on our creative network with a brand new course! It is an honor to have had Kate share her techniques and gifts with us over the years and to love the students on our site so lavishly. Kate will be traveling with me May of 2019 for my last The Living Studio abroad (at least for the foreseeable future) because of our joint love of history, imagery, vintage papers and use of …
Early Bird Ending! Figuratively Speaking with Dina Wakley
*Early Registration Ending How many of us want to find freedom in our art? I know that creating authentic art that tells a story with loose lines and brush strokes is what I am always working towards. I am so thrilled to share that Dina Wakley is back with a brand new online course and like each of her courses it is filled with COLOR, intentional marks, and storytelling! If you want to get out of your own head and start …
Begins Friday! Art and Nature in Colored Pencil with Kelly Hoernig
Kelly Hoernig is back with another creative adventure using colored pencils. Kelly is an expert in the field of colored pencil art and she has spent years teaching and practicing with this medium. Kelly is also a teacher that lavishes her students with instruction, encouragement and knowledge. It is such an honor to have Kelly back on our creative network! Art & Nature in Color Pencil with Kelly Hoernig begins Friday, October 26th, 2018! 5+ hours of course content, lifetime* access. From …
Early Registration Ending | Storytellers and Mavericks with Jeanne Oliver
I believe that if you want others to feel something when they see your art then YOU have to feel something, share something, or work through something when you create your art. I promise you that it shows in what you put out into the world. If you want to create art that evokes emotion and feeling then I hope you will join me in Storytellers & Mavericks. When I create an online course it is because I have no other choice but to dive …
Begins Wednesday! | The Art of Alcohol Ink with Noelle Mena
Creative people have so many areas of their lives where they walk out their creativity. Some of you are gardeners, cooks, sweet gatherers of people, painters, and sculptures. The list could go on and on. One of the strongest members of our creative team is Noelle Mena. She has worked beside us for almost two years now and her impact on our network is priceless. So, in the day she builds and designs and when she is off the clock she …
Early Registration Open! Studying Under Berthe Morisot with Michelle Wooderson
If you love to learn, study, practice and get into the head of an artist then you are in for the most wonderful creative adventure with Michelle Wooderson. So many of you have been asking for more Studying Under The Masters courses and if you know Michelle (or once you know her) you will know why she was the most perfect artist to lead the next one. Michelle has a deep love of learning and exploring art techniques and she …
20th Anniversary Sale | 40% Off One Online Course
It was a Friday night in Washington, DC in February of 1998. I had worked late and I was supposed to meet up with friends in a local brewery. I saw Kelly come in with a group of people and I instantly said to my friends, “Check out my future husband”. We went on our first date the next week, we were engaged four months later and married 8 months after meeting. It has been hard and beautiful and broken and lifegiving. I had no idea how hard …
Early Registration Ending | Mixed Media Directions with Rae Missigman
Rae Missigman is the artist that keeps pushing the boundaries of creativity and she has the heart of a teacher. This is such an incredible combination and what always has students going away wanting more. Lucky us that Rae is back with more! She is bringing our creative network a brand new course that focuses on words and your creative process. It is guaranteed to be colorful fun! Rae’s course, Mixed Media Directions | A Path to Artful Discovery is in the final …
Early Registration Open! Figuratively Speaking with Dina Wakley
Good Morning! How many of us want to find freedom in our art? I know that creating authentic art that tells a story with loose lines and brush strokes is what I am always working towards. I am so thrilled to share that Dina Wakley is back with a brand new online course and like each of her courses it is filled with COLOR, intentional marks, and storytelling! If you want to get out of your own head and start breaking …
Early Registration Ending! Sacred Vestments | Expressive Portraits and Figures with Kate Thompson
The inspiring and prolific Kate Thompson is back on our creative network with a brand new course! It is an honor to have had Kate share her techniques and gifts with us over the years and to love the students on our site so lavishly. Kate will be traveling with me May of 2019 for my last The Living Studio abroad (at least for the foreseeable future) because of our joint love of history, imagery, vintage papers and use of …
Early Registration Ending | Art and Nature in Colored Pencil with Kelly Hoernig
Early registration is ending for Art & Nature in Color Pencil with Kelly Hoernig. 5+ hours of course content, lifetime* access. Early registration price of $32 changes to $48 on September 26th @ 10 pm MST and the course will go live on October 26th, 2018. Kelly Hoernig is back with another creative adventure using colored pencils. Kelly is an expert in the field of colored pencil art and she has spent years teaching and practicing with this medium. Kelly is also a teacher …
Storytellers and Mavericks with Jeanne Oliver | Open For Early Registration
View PostBegins Tuesday! | Creative Collage with Leslie Rottner
One of the sweetest parts of what I have the joy of doing is seeing something so beautiful and unique in an artist and asking them to share it with all of you. When I first saw the work of Leslie Rottner I couldn’t help but come back to look at it again and again. The more she shared her work the more I knew it was different and set apart. When you see that in an artist it is …
Early Registration Ending | The Art of Alcohol Ink with Noelle Mena
Creative people have so many areas of their lives where they walk out their creativity. Some of you are gardeners, cooks, sweet gatherers of people, painters, and sculptures. The list could go on and on. One of the strongest members of our creative team is Noelle Mena. She has worked beside us for almost two years now and her impact on our network is priceless. So, in the day she builds and designs and when she is off the clock she …
Brand New and Instant Access! Abstract Color and Composition with Cherie Wilson
How about a beautiful surprise to enjoy over the weekend? Cherie Wilson is back on our creative network with a brand new and INSTANTLY available online course all about Abstract Color and Composition. During her last online course so many of the students had questions about composition so she made a whole course for you! What? Serious! So, no waiting and you can start watching right away! Thank you so much Cherie! You are amazing and you love your students …
Early Registration Open! Mixed Media Directions | A Path to Artful Discovery with Rae Missigman
Rae Missigman is the artist that keeps pushing the boundaries of creativity and she has the heart of a teacher. This is such an incredible combination and what always has students going away wanting more. Lucky us that Rae is back with more! She is bringing our creative network a brand new course that focuses on words and your creative process. It is guaranteed to be colorful fun! Rae’s course, Mixed Media Directions | A Path to Artful Discovery is opening today for …
Begins on Monday | Draw and See with Rebecca Sower
Draw and See with Rebecca Sower begins tomorrow! I can not remember a time during this creative journey that I haven’t admired and deeply respected the work and heart of Rebecca Sower. She is a prolific artist with a wide range of techniques and skills that she is dipping her hands in and the results are always beautiful. I had always hoped that Rebecca and I would have the opportunity to collaborate so it is with great joy I get to …
Early Registration Open! Sacred Vestments | Expressive Portraits and Figures with Kate Thompson
The inspiring and prolific Kate Thompson is back on our creative network with a brand new course! It is an honor to have had Kate share her techniques and gifts with us over the years and to love the students on our site so lavishly. Kate will be traveling with me May of 2019 for my last The Living Studio abroad (at least for the foreseeable future) because of our joint love of history, imagery, vintage papers and use of …
Brand New and Instant Access! Animals | Inspired to Sketch and Paint with Cathy Walters
How about a brand new art class, on a Friday, all about animals and with INSTANT ACCESS! You may have seen her work in Pottery Barn, Wayfair, Land of Nod and more…come and read more about a new and instant access animals course with Cathy Walters. This course will make you smile and love creating! Cathy is not only a well known and loved artist but she has been our family and business photographer for the past 10 years. Her photos …
Early Registration Open | Art and Nature in Colored Pencil with Kelly Hoernig
Kelly Hoernig is back with another creative adventure using colored pencils. Kelly is an expert in the field of colored pencil art and she has spent years teaching and practicing with this medium. Kelly is also a teacher that lavishes her students with instruction, encouragement and knowledge. It is such an honor to have Kelly back on our creative network! Kelly’s course, Art & Nature in Color Pencil is opening today for Early Registration. Early registration has just opened for Art & Nature in …
Begins on Monday | Feel The Pose with Pauline Agnew
When you come across an artist whose work stops you in your tracks you have to find out more about them. That is exactly what happened with Pauline Agnew! Her landscape and figure work are completely captivating and once I knew more about her and her work I was crossing my fingers she would create a course just for you! Lucky us…she did! Join me in welcoming Pauline Agnew to our creative community! Pauline’s course, Feel The Pose | Creating Expressive …
Early Registration Ending | Creative Collage with Leslie Rottner
One of the sweetest parts of what I have the joy of doing is seeing something so beautiful and unique in an artist and asking them to share it with all of you. When I first saw the work of Leslie Rottner I couldn’t help but come back to look at it again and again. The more she shared her work the more I knew it was different and set apart. When you see that in an artist it is …
Quirky Characters with Lucy Cooke begins on Monday!
Quirky Characters with Lucy Cooke goes live on Monday! Learn how to fall in love with drawing again! With simple materials, transform lines that are interesting, wonky, elegant, and scribbly, into quirky characters that will make you smile! Quirky Characters with Lucy Cooke! 3.75+ hours of course content, lifetime* access and a registration price of $48. From Lucy Cooke… Let’s travel the road of creativity, as we learn how to fall in love with drawing again! With simple materials, …
Early Registration Open | The Art of Alcohol Ink with Noelle Mena
Creative people have so many areas of their lives where they walk out their creativity. Some of you are gardeners, cooks, sweet gatherers of people, painters, and sculptures. The list could go on and on. One of the strongest members of our creative team is Noelle Mena. She has worked beside us for almost two years now and her impact on our network is priceless. So, in the day she builds and designs and when she is off the clock she …
Acts of Service Advent Tree
Good morning! I have been getting a lot of questions and emails about our acts of service Advent tree that was seen in the housewalk. I had intended to write this yesterday but you know how that goes. Even though it is December 11 (how did that happen) you still have time to do some of the acts that I will share. Obviously, you can create your own that work with your family too. This idea originally came to me …
Vintage Christmas Tree With Balsam Hill
If you have had a chance to see our home dressed up for Christmas you will see over and over that I love vintage. I love beautiful things that tell a story. No matter where we travel I am always drawn to the art and the history of the culture. If I have the choice to buy something new or go searching for something that may be a bit tarnished…I usually choose the tarnished. Even when decorating I search for …
Dream Maker {Everyone Should Have One}
I always had the mom that told me I was special and talented and could do anything. You know…the mom that tells you amazing things about yourself and you roll your eyes. You think your mom tells you nice things about yourself only because she is your mom. That is part of it. The other part is that she can see past what you see. She can see the good and the bad and the potential. She can see what …
Finding Fall Home Tour {16 Bloggers and BHG!}
Are you getting ready for fall, baking too much, lighting candles in every room and wearing your UGG boots everywhere? No? Is it just me? If you are ready to jump into cooler weather, baking, yummy soups, hot cider, open windows, colorful leaves, bonfires and pumpkins you will want to come back here on Monday! The talented Laura of Finding Home and Better Homes and Gardens has brought 16 bloggers together for a fall home tour. You will be able …
The 411 {all the details about the teen bedroom makeover}
I wanted to tell you real quick that for the next 24 hours we are offering Jennifer Rizzo’s Santos Cage Dolls e-course for only $10 (you have access to the videos for 6 months) . Fall is the perfect time to get back into creating and Jen’s Santos dolls are incredible and even perfect for decor and gift giving. I learned so much about using clay and breaking down the face into shapes. Jen is an amazing teacher and you …
Ramblings on a Wednesday Afternoon
I hope you are all having a great day. We spent the day at the creek doing school with my sister and her children. It is one of our favorite back to school activities that we do each year. There is something so peaceful and magical about the grassy hills, creek, huge trees and an empty park. We almost had the whole play to ourselves. Today I just wanted to ramble a bit (if you have ever met me in …
Random Ramblings {Life Right Now}
I can’t believe it is almost August! We have had a full (but wonderful) summer. A few days after Kelly and I returned from Italy we felt spoiled as we spent a night out watching The Avett Brothers at Red Rocks. We are so spoiled by this venue that we don’t even like concerts anywhere else. A few days later we watched my sister’s three kids for 9 days while they helped my mom and brother move from Illinois to …
Gluten Free and Paleo Pancakes {Yummy}
We have been gluten free in our home for over two years now. Our tummies feel so much better but we feel the best when we also eat paleo. You can easily eat gluten free pancakes but they are not good for you. They may be gluten free but they are also health free. You may find yourself eating more potatoes and white rice which = sugar! Read your labels carefully and make your foods from scratch as much as …
Creating Your Own Outdoor Movie Night {summer is coming}
Summer is right around the corner and my mind is going crazy thinking of all the fun things I want to do with my family and children this year. Summer is the perfect time for casual parties, afternoons with backyard water slides, water balloons and homemade popsicles. When the weather starts to warm up I am more likely to invite friends over for a backyard BBQ or an afternoon coffee date while the children play. I think I come out …
Getting Past The Ugly
One of the hardest things is pushing past the ugly. When we are doing something new or something out of our comfort zone there is often the ugly that accompanies it. I am the biggest cheerleader of my children to practice, try again and push beyond…it can be harder when it comes to me. Have you ever had a hard patch in your marriage. Has it been hard? Ugly? Did you push past the ugly? Did you get to other …
Dear Daddy {From Madolyn}
For the past 7 years Kelly and Madolyn have gone to the Castle Rock Daddy Daughter Ball. I know when Kelly first took her that it wasn’t really his “thing”…but it was definitely her kind of “thing”. After that first time together and seeing how much she loved getting dressed up, dancing with her dad and just being together….it quickly became his thing too. Madolyn is now 10 and I know they will have many more special times together because …
Living Beyond Happiness {Reaching For The Joy}
{image found HERE} I hear it all of the time… You deserve to be happy I deserve to be happy If I only had xyz… I would be happy It is not that happy is a bad word. I just know that there is more! {image found HERE} You are surrounded by it every day. Surrounded by this idea that happy belongs to you and it you aren’t living it every second than you are doing something wrong or …
There May Have Been Withdrawals {harder than I thought}
My home life and work life overlap, collide and sometimes don’t have boundaries with one another. It is the blessing and curse of running your own business from home. To throw one more thing into the mix…we homeschool our children. In short, our children are usually with us for school, running the house and watching us (and many times helping us) with our business. They cheer for us when things sell well, they help more around the house when we …
My Favorite Things 2012 {Homeschool Favs}
Today I will share my Homeschool Favorites of 2012 You can also see my Business Favorites, Creative Favorites, Home Favorite and Beauty Favorites. If there was ever something in our lives that I never went looking for, didn’t plan to do and could have never pictured myself doing..homeschooling is it! If there was something that has blessed our lives immensely…homeschooling is it! I started because I had a 5 year old that was reading beautifully and my teacher friends recommended …
Hold Tight {it is worth the work}
{I surprised my family with a weekend in Denver…I didn’t even tell Kelly} Sometimes I wish I could slip back into time and be a small child that can’t sleep on Christmas Eve with an excited heart. As a child you are oblivious of other things going on around you. {A night ice skating with my sister and her family} I have said recently that the age I am now is very real. Very. You can’t turn your head and …
Random Thoughts and Ramblings
Our Thanksgiving was just as I imagined with just a bit more time in the kitchen than I imagined. I guess food doesn’t cook itself…weird. We hiked, went to see THIS movie, made THIS recipe and stuffed our face with THIS. We ended our night with “Little Women” and I feel like the Christmas season has now officially begun. No matter how many times I see the movie I just can’t get into Amy’s character (Susan Sarandon/Winona Ryder version). Does …
Happy Thanksgiving {A reminder and a coupon}
{the image is mine} When we were pregnant with Jack we were living in Adam’s Morgan in DC. I was about three months pregnant with Jack on Thanksgiving that year. Without family to spend the holiday with we decided to just keep it low key and have a simple meal at our home and watch movies all day. {Right now that sounds pretty dreamy} I don’t know why we thought King Sooper’s “Thanksgiving in a Box” sounded like a good …
A Little Boy’s Room {No longer a baby}
We recently took Benjamin’s room from his nursery paint colors to a room that will grow with him for awhile. When Jack was born we decorated his nursery in pale blues and it was beautiful for our first baby. When Benjamin was born he was our third baby and second boy. I knew as soon as I found out we were having a boy I wanted to create a really fun room for him and one that would grow with …
Falling Leaves {and all the goodness of fall}
I adore fall. It is my favorite season with spring a close second. The crisp air, the leaves crunching under your feet, big pots of something good on the stove, apple picking, apple cider, loving on my home more…it is all so good. It is too short though. Maybe that is why I cherish it and miss it once it is gone. A few weekends ago we took the children to the Littleton Historical Museum’s harvest festival. I love this …
Training {in all kinds of areas}
I woke up last week seeing an image of a hamster running on a wheel. I knew that was me. I knew that the Lord was trying to tell me something…some obvious and a few other things took me an extra week to hear. I am a doer. Good and bad. I don’t ask for help as much as I should. Good and bad. I forget that I have a creator that has given me every gift I have and …
Modern Antiquity {sneak peek}
Are you getting more excited with each sneak peek I post? I know I am! I love all the emails I am getting from all of you that are so eager for Creatively Made Home (CMH) to begin! I have shared a peek into the “farm to table” style of Kimberly Taylor HERE. I have shared a peek into the “do it yourself ” style of Jennifer Rizzo HERE. Today I get to share just a glimpse into the projects …
Farm To Table {Sneak Peek}
I am sure you all know someone that you admire how they can make so many things look easy. Maybe even effortless. I believe that when we see someone in their element that is when we see an effortlessness. It doesn’t mean they haven’t practiced or worked hard. They have most likely taken their natural interests, read, practiced and grown their innate interests and gifts. When I was putting together the other hosts for Creatively Made Home (CMH) I wanted …
End of Week Ramblings
I wanted to give you all a few quick updates about where you can find us lately. We are so excited that you can now get iphone skins, covers, wrapped canvases of my art etc. at Society 6! I hope you pop on over and see the really fun and beautiful new items we get to offer you. We are also featured this month in the Fall 2012 issue of Folk Magazine! Two articles in fact! They did such a …
Our Love Story {Part Two}
{while we were dating in 1998} My last post shared about My Love Story {Part One}. This post was originally posted on February 14, 2011 It tells of love almost at first site, a quick engagement and a marriage 8 months after we met. It talked about complete peace on our wedding day. I knew then that he was the one for me and I didn’t doubt that…but there is a part two that also needs to be told….and part …
Our Love Story {Part One}
Since I am off with my husband celebrating my 40th birthday and an early 14th year anniversary I thought it would be fun to share our story. This post was originally posted on October 12, 2010 My love story began like so many….in a bar:-) OK…it was a restaurant too…which my mom always likes to remind people. I was sitting at the bar with some girlfriends. The most handsome of boys walked in with a group of people. I leaned over to …
Final Peek Into Let Us Make | It Will Begin On Monday!
Let Us Make with Sheila Atchley will begin on Monday, August 7th! One of my dearest friends in the world is my beautiful friend Sheila Atchley. In my life, she is trusted and true and one of the wisest people I know. She is a straight talker, deep thinker and creative soul that longs for truth and beautiful conversation. It is with deep joy that I share that we are offering Sheila’s first online course, Let Us Make! Let Us …
Scribblepedia with Rae Missigman | Early Registration Just Opened
I love early registration day because you get to see a teacher and project that we have had to keep quiet until NOW! I am so thrilled to announce that Rae Missigman is coming to our creative network for the very first time and she has created a gorgeous course just for us! Scribblepedia |Text Marks In Art has just opened for early registration. Scribblepedia| Text Mark Making In Art Explore text based mark-making with its power to transform …
Brand New Mini Course | Paper Palettes with Kelly Hoernig
It is Friday! That means the weekend and extra time and… We have a brand new mini course just for you! Kelly Hoernig has created the most fun art resource in her newest course Paper Palettes | A Color Discovery Mini Course! COLOR? Are you stuck in a rut? Are you confident about your choices when creating art? Want to experiment but not sure how to go about it? Want to be adventurous and step out of your color …
Stephanie Lee Encaustic Workshop | Jeanne Oliver Studio
Join Stephanie Lee in beautiful Castle Rock, Colorado on November 10-11, 2017 for a two day art workshop. Our studio is light filled and surrounded by wooded property that lends itself to exploring, creating and relaxing. You will have opportunities during the workshop to also make your way through some of our wooded paths and find a spot to create. It is our heart’s desire that your time on our land and studio brings you rest and dreaming. …
Let Us Make With Sheila Atchley | Last 24 Hours To Get The Early Registration Price
***24 hours left to get the early registration price of $28*** One of my dearest friends in the world is my beautiful friend Sheila Atchley. In my life, she is trusted and true and one of the wisest people I know. She is a straight talker, deep thinker and creative soul that longs for truth and beautiful conversation. It is with deep joy that I share that we are offering Sheila’s first online course, Let Us Make! Let Us Make! …
We Are Opening Up a Second Weekend | Live WILD AWAKENING Workshop In Our Studio!
We have just opened up a second weekend to our sold out workshop Wild Awakening! Join me in beautiful Castle Rock, Colorado on October 6-7, 2017 for a two day art workshop. Our studio is light filled and surrounded by wooded property that lends itself to exploring, creating and relaxing. You will have opportunities during the workshop to also make your way through some of our wooded paths and find a spot to create. It is our heart’s desire that …
Look What We Found | A Few London and Caroline Art Bags
***Look What We Found a Few More of*** Welcome to our art bags the Caroline Art Bag and London Art Bag! They are stunning! Each bag is made from four different vintage fabrics including vintage French linen! They are so dreamy! Our art bags were inspired by my The Living Studio series and retreats and the idea of not just creating in our studios but out in the world and creating around what inspires us. The Caroline and London art bags …
An Artist In France | Art and Words from the Living Studio Along the Seine Artists
The Living Studio workshops were created because there was a void in the art workshop world. The Living Studio would be about exploring a new place and creating art everywhere we went. When we had scheduled classes they would be shorter to give you the techniques to get back to the museums, the cafes, the gardens and to have your sketchbook with you the whole time. I knew this style of workshop would not be for everyone but for …
Wendy Brightbill Live Still Life Workshop | Jeanne Oliver Studio
Join Wendy Brightbill in beautiful Castle Rock, Colorado on October 20-21, 2017 for a two day art workshop. Our studio is light filled and surrounded by wooded property that lends itself to exploring, creating and relaxing. You will have opportunities during the workshop to also make your way through some of our wooded paths and find a spot to create. It is our heart’s desire that your time on our land and studio brings you rest and dreaming. When you …
Ordered Chaos with Dina Wakley Begins on Monday!
Dina Wakley will be teaching on our creative network and her course Ordered Chaos will begin on Monday! If you had a chance to take the FREE Living Studio online video with Dina you get just a taste of how fun, easy to follow and colorful her art is. You can’t leave time with Dina and not want to have your hands covered in creativity! If you did not have a chance to create the journals with Dina I hope you make …
We Just Added a Free Art Supplies Video |Enjoy!
It has been too long since we have added a new free art video so today was the day to change that:-) Come on over to our creative network and enjoy my FREE SUPPLIES VIDEO from the online course Wild Awakening | Painting Big with Expressive Freedom. It is an hour long video sharing some of my favorite supplies right now and how I like to incorporate them into my work. Enjoy! *** If you are new to our creative network …
Dina Wakley Ordered Chaos | Early Registration Just Opened
I have a huge treat that I am announcing today! Dina Wakley will be teaching on our creative network and her course Ordered Chaos JUST opened for early registration! If you had a chance to take the FREE Living Studio online video with Dina you get just a taste of how fun, easy to follow and colorful her art is. You can’t leave time with Dina and not want to have your hands covered in creativity! If you did not have a chance …
Our First Workshop In Our Studios For 2017 | Be Present Workshop With Jeanne Oliver
***THIS WORKSHOP IS SOLD OUT*** Please email us at contact@jeanneoliverdesigns.com if you would like to be placed on a wait list if there are any cancellations. Join me in beautiful Castle Rock, Colorado on May 26-27, 2017 for a two day art workshop. Our studio is light filled and surrounded by wooded property that lends itself to exploring, creating and relaxing. You will have opportunities during the workshop to also make your way through some of our wooded paths and …
Documented Life Project FREE Video 2016 |All About the Gold!
I am so honored to be back as a featured artist with the Documented Life Project 2016. I would like to give a little full discloser that I obviously don’t read instructions and I totally missed my assignment. For real! It is midnight here and I am seeing for the first time that it was suppose to be simple and small. This is awkward. My husband does all of my video edits, uploading etc. so you can imagine his eye rolling just …
Paint Splattered Gift Wrapping | Artsy and Easy
This is the final post for me with all of the incredible ladies that are a part of the Farmhouse Holiday Series! This series has been over the past few months and it has been so much fun and I have loved sharing our new home in a more intentional way. These ladies are all full time design and DIY bloggers and it has been such a huge honor to be included. I would just like to thank Kristen of …
The Living Studio Toolbox Studios | For Sale In The Shop
***SOLD OUT*** More will be coming in the January 2017 My heart behind The Living Studio is that we will all learn to explore and create wherever we live. I hope to inspire people to step out of the comfort of their studios and out into the world and boldly create based upon the beauty all around them. I don’t know how many times over the years I had walked past a person sketching in an art museum, painting in …
Studio Christmas Tour
I had hoped to get the studio simply decorated for Christmas in time for our Holiday House Walk Tour earlier this week but that just didn’t happen so we are sharing it now. We are loving this space so much and what it means for me but also Kelly and the kids. This is where I create, have meeting with our creative team members, meet with clients, read, study, tinker, have cocktails or coffee with Kelly and hang out with …
The London and Caroline Art Bags Are Now Available | Just in Time for Christmas Delivery
Welcome to our art bag! We have just released the Caroline Art Bag and London Art Bag! They are stunning! Each bag is made from four different vintage fabrics include vintage French linen! They are so dreamy! Our art bags were inspired by my The Living Studio series and retreats and the idea of not just creating in our studios but out in the world and creating around what inspires us. The Caroline and London art bags are made from …
Business Consulting and Private Art Instructions Openings for 2017
We are opening up our calendar to start scheduling business consults and private art instruction in 2017. This has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the new studio because it has allowed us to connect in brand new ways. Over the past year I have consulted with businesses owners from all over the world and have helped them make a plan to grow their business, get back on track or get off the ground. Running your own business …
Modern Farmhouse Christmas Home Tour
We truly wait until after Thanksgiving to pull out our decorations for Christmas (and we are still pulling them out). We will be adding to our home over the next week but today is a great start! We are all so excited to celebrate the birth of Christ, to get ready for a new year, to intentionally choose how to spend the season and to gather for our favorite traditions. This is our first Christmas in our new home and …
Our Christmas Home Tour from 2015
***THIS POST IS OUR HOLIDAY HOME TOUR FROM 2015** Please come back tomorrow for our Christmas Home Tour for 2016 *** How do you say goodbye to a home and bring in the holidays for the last time at an address? The past few weeks have brought such a storm of mixed emotions and now the reality that we are moving from the only home our children have known. We love it pretty simple around here for the holidays and …
I Am More Blessed To Give Than To Receive | Free VIDEO
Good Morning! I hope you all had a sweet Thanksgiving with family and friends and if you were finding yourself alone yesterday I hope there was time to create, read, walk and just enjoy the day. We were only going to have my mom and brother over and before we knew it we had 21 people in the house and tables everywhere and it was fabulous! We were moving the piano and squishing people in and it made my heart …
Radiant Watercolor Portraits | Early Registration Just Opened
Good Evening! We are thrilled to announce the second online course of 2017! Early registration has just opened for the GORGEOUS course Radiant Watercolor Portraits with Christie Drahnak! Simple tools and extraordinary techniques to create stunning portraits. “Watercolor is a swim in the metaphysics of life… a mirror of one’s own character. Let it be unpredictable and colorful.” – anonymous Come and watch the course trailer… In Radiant Watercolor Portraits I will share with you my love for watercolor …
Our Fall Home
***All week we will be sharing some of our recent and past fall decor** This is our first fall on our new land and in our home and we are loving all of the surprises. Want to know the surprise we are loving the most right now? We have a huge apple tree! We had no idea because we bought our land and home in the middle of winter. I have always wanted an apple tree and this home has …
Fall Favorites | Jen Wagner
Happy Saturday! We are back with more fall favorites and today they are shared by Jen Wagner. Jen is a member of our creative team and she is responsible for our logos, graphics, hand lettering, website and so much more! We kind of love her. A lot! She makes us look good! Jen also have awesome taste so check out her favorites. There’s something about fall that just stops me in my tracks and forces me to breathe in …
In The Jewelry Box {My Current Favorites}
I am a creature of habit. I like coffee first thing in the morning. I can’t work on the computer without my hair being pulled back. I like to watch movies with the lights off. I have five books at once on my nightstand so I can read according to my mood. Whether I am high maintenance (hmmm), picky or just a creature of habit…I can also find myself in slumps when it comes to fashion, hair, makeup, jewelry etc. …
I am tired of being quiet {and I have a lot to say}
We have been on vacation for two weeks now and between all of our history absorbing, coffee drinking, marathon walking, children fighting or hotel hopping…I have had time to think. I have written many times that I am a doer and this often leads to me not hearing. A child can stand at my side and tap my shoulder until I hear but often the Lord’s voice is quiet and still. When I take walks or make art…I hear the …
What I Wish For You Today {Heck, what I wish for all of us}
On my run today I was listening to different music, thinking about friends, thinking about all of you guys and I wanted to share these songs with you. Within each of these songs I hope you find glimpses of yourself. I hope you hold on to a few words that will encourage and inspire you. I hope you will know…really know…that you were made for a purpose. I hope you will know that your time is now. ********** Come …
Flashback Friday {My Favorite Makeup}
Last days to get the brand new Creatively Made Home {home for the holidays} at the early registration price of $48! Registration is open. On August 26th the price will go to $58. ********** {originally posted on May 9, 2012} Hello everyone! I am back from teaching in California and my leg is healing beautifully! It is still bandaged but almost all of the infection is gone. Seriously….everyone that has ever known ANYONE with an infection has shared some horror …
There Is Room For All of US {Melissa Loves}
I am a big believer that there is room for everyone when it comes to your gifts and what you have to offer this world. Your gifts are beautiful and big…and so is this world. Awhile ago I wrote THIS post about making room for creative people around you. I hope you will join me with this new series about moving over and making room for others. For this first post I wanted to show off the beautiful gifts of …
Flashback Friday {I Will Show You Mine If You Will Show Me Yours}
{Originally posted on May 16, 2012} This week I thought it would be fun to show you what I carry in my purse. This is really it except there was some loose garbage that I had to shake out:-) 1. The Anne Ruffle Messenger Bag 2. My favorite sunglasses from Banana Republic 3. Keys (with the oldest leather key chain but my father in law gave it to me years ago) 4. I always have to include some food incase …
Honestly {I Wanna See You Be Brave}
I am loving this song (and the whole album) by Sara Bareilles. “Brave” You can be amazing You can turn a phrase into a weapon or a drug You can be the outcast Or be the backlash of somebody’s lack of love Or you can start speaking up Nothing’s gonna hurt you the way that words do When they settle ‘neath your skin Kept on the inside and no sunlight Sometimes a shadow wins But I wonder what would happen …
Random Ramblings
Good Morning! It is a cool and rainy morning here in Colorado. It is only just beginning to feel like summer and we don’t get very much rain so we are appreciating the extra moisture. **** We just finished our school year and we are ALL thankful to be done. I always look forward to the three month break so I can get renewed and gear up for another school year. Right now I don’t want to see one math …
Let’s Step Back in Time {Saturday Mornings and other Ramblings}
Last Saturday as my husband and I were drinking our morning coffee we started talking about what Saturday mornings were like growing up. It was funny to reminisce on those weekly routines. Saturdays to me was waking up early, heading downstairs and watching cartoons. If I woke up really early my only option was Davy and Goliath. Goliath may be the Caillou of the 1970s. I can do the impression if you want:-) Next up on the schedule would be …
The Hair Vote of 2012 {Dun Dun Dun}
I get more comments about my hair than almost anything else. It is actually quite amusing. I was starting to get worried that when I cut it I was going to get a comment like Amy in Little Women, “Jo, how could you, your one beauty!” Thank goodness I didn’t get anything like that…yet. So, a few weeks ago I put up a silly collage on my business page asking people to vote for the hair cut I should get. …
Preparing Our Hearts {It ain’t always so simple}
I can’t believe that tomorrow is December 1! How can it be so close to Christmas and a brand new year? I have thought a lot about our month of December and what I really desire for our family. Part of the plan has been built upon two of my three that fight and pick at each other all. day. long (at least it feels like it). I know that siblings do this. I did it and I was really …
To What Extent Would You Go To Rescue Your Own Children?
An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity. — Martin Luther King, Jr. There’s an estimated 7,000 children who work in the Ghana fishing industry. Some of these children are as young as 5 and 6 years old. All of these children are slaves. –Mercy Project Today many in our country will take a day off from our jobs to celebrate the social …
It Pays To Give {thank you}
{How cute are they? Pure yumminess} Whether you gave to Barb’s wall or helped spread the word…thank you. She still needs your help so I hope there is something (no matter how small) that you can give. Everyone that spread the news about helping build the wall in Uganda or gave anything towards the effort was entered into a giveaway here on my blog. I know that so many of you gave and never entered the giveaway so thank you …
You Ask {I Spill}
First off I want to thank you for your overwhelming response to our new collection. When you put so much of yourself into something and then it is loved by others……that is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world. Thank you! There is still time to enter our $500 giveaway package. Go HERE to find out all the details! ************ Follow this link to my last You Ask {I spill}. Now onto your questions. Bess asked… That little …
Braindump {Yes, I’m at it again}
We are crazy busy over here with the launch of the new e-course and getting ready to launch the new collection on Monday! And when I said “petite” collection I wasn’t talking about petite people. I meant smaller. Like in special and limited:-) I have been getting many emails very worried about the clothing size:-) I am going into rooms and forgetting why I even went in there. I am sitting down at the computer with no idea whatsoever why …
Let’s Build a Wall Together!
I have often thought that it is almost impossible for my children to understand how blessed they are. They have walls that protect them at night, a refrigerator full of food, blankets that keep them warm and clothes that cover their sweet bodies. They are loved and wanted. They have everything they need and much that they want. Most of us do. They have parents to care for them, aunts and uncles that adore them and grandparents that spoil them. …
How Often Are You Still? {It is harder than I thought}
There may have been something to the verse, “Be still and know that I am God”. Be still! I guess 2,000 years ago mankind was too busy too:-) Yesterday I found myself in an unusually situation. I was taking Jack to a composition class and the other two were home with Kelly. I had accidentally left my journal (gasp) and iphone (double gasp) on the counter at home. I don’t go anywhere…I mean ANYWHERE without my phone and journal. If …
Sometimes in the pain {you find your most tender heart}
I don’t usually write about my parent’s divorce. Coming home does that to me. Far away you don’t see the day to day pain. You don’t see the details. You don’t feel the details. It is easier where I stand back in Colorado. Far, far away from where the hurt is. But I guess it can follow me there too. One of my closest friends has said that a divorce (especially a divorce caused by an affair) is a death …
This Could Only Happen To Me {For Reals}
I would like to start off by telling everyone that I am not excessively clumsy. I was not drinking the day when this story begins (at least not excessively). I don’t usually jump up out of my chair to do yard work (at least not excessively). We can now proceed. Last Monday was a gorgeous day here in Colorado. The sun was out, the birds were chirping and all was right with the world. We went for a hike on a new trail. …
My View of The Week
If you would have peeked into our life this week you would have found us….. Juicing Getting tea in bed Enjoying peeks of spring through the snow Getting secret Morse Code letters Being a little goofy Kicking booty Working on the last book of the school year Writing essays Seeing our Cream Ruffle Tote in Where Women Cook Getting birthday coupons in the mail Editing lots and lots of video What have you been doing this week? {You can also …
Are You Ready for Spring? {I am}
I live in Colorado and I have to admit that I am pretty spoiled with all this sunshine, mild winters and pretty fabulous summers. It is so true. But even with the mild winters and all….around February I am really ready for the windows to be open and to hear the birds chirping. Maybe a few rooms need to be deep cleaned too! Just saying. To make it worse we have had incredible weather lately and then it will dip …
Get The Look {Be inspired and Share Photos Yourself}
Sometimes when we see clothing online, in a catalog or in a lookbook we can wonder….what will those pieces look like on ME? I wanted to show my clothing, bags etc on different people wearing them in THEIR own way. Different women. Different unique styles. Different sizes. This idea brought about my new series called, “Get the look”. Each week I have asked 3-4 women to show photos of how THEY wear my clothing. The most exciting part about this …
Finding the Lovely {Final Week}
This is the final Friday of “Finding the Lovely”. Kimberly and I have loved seeing your images and having you play along. I hope I continue to take as many photos with my phone and try to capture more of the day to day sweet and funny moments. Here are some of my captures from this week. Head on over to Kimberly’s blog to see what she captured this week and to link up with your own images. ************************************************ I …
Finding the Lovely {Week Three}
I am loving doing this series with all of you. I have barely picked up my big ol’ honking camera because I have been better about using my camera phone. I don’t worry about them being just perfect and I am capturing more of the everyday photos and I love that. Here are some of the lovely moments that I snapped this week. Head on over to Kimberly’s beautiful blog to see what she thought was lovely this week. You …
Hey Girl {I just want you to all laugh}
Valentine’s Day. Crazy, weird holiday. I don’t need a holiday to remember to tell the people that I love ….that I love them. I still participate which annoys me but I can’t not participate. Anyways. This comic that I stole from my friend, Brandi, is AWESOME. So funny! This leads me to my Valentine card from Kelly. He was going to be out of town so we all went out to dinner last night and exchanged cards with each other and …
Bhome {I am joining the party}
Months ago I was contacted to be a part of the launch of a brand new app called Bhome. As much as I have social media in my life for my business I have to be honest that I get overwhelmed by too many things coming at me and the idea of learning one more new thing just usually keeps me from jumping into things way behind other people. The more I was learning about Bhome and the more my …
My Cozy Fall Favorites 2015
Cozy, eclectic, artsy, warm and comfortable are words I would use to describe how I hope our home feels to my family and friends. Cozy is the best word and it instant makes me think of comfy pajamas, my hands wrapped around a huge mug of something hot, a good book, the fireplace going, my favorite record playing, curled up on the couch with a fluffy blanket and sweet faces surrounding me. As soon as the temperatures dip below 80 …
Finding Fall Home Tour With Better Homes And Gardens
I hate running from one place to another and nothing makes me happier than a slow day at home so I can’t tell you how happy I am that I am your last stop on the Finding Fall Home Tour. I get to spend more time with you and we all can take a big exhale, I can get you a coffee and we don’t have any place to run off to. If you are coming from Miss Mustard Seed …
Art of Home Launch and a Celebration Giveaway!
I MAY be a few days late for this! It was my intention to open the giveaway the day Art of Home | Modern Simple Living began and then we have been so crazy busy with the new courses that I didn’t make it over here! THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED Better late than never and this is such a good giveaway! I asked each of the teachers of Art of Home to share some of their favorite things that …
Art of Home | Modern Simple Living Begins Tomorrow!
Tomorrow the online course the Art of Home | Modern Simple Living will begin! We would love to have you join us as we celebrate home and simple ways to create an artisan lifestyle. Here is a peek into week one…the Art of Farm To Table. (Keep in mind that this is only week one! What an fun and rich course this will be) I grew up with a large garden, morning cereal often had fresh berries from …
Sometimes I Feel Like A Fox {which one are you?}
Sometimes I get to do really cool things like review books by artists I admire! Danielle Daniel has recently released her book Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox! So beautiful on so many levels! Today my Benjamin and I read this book all snuggled up. We even read it a few times in a row and tried to find what animals we most closely represented. This is a precious book visually and in meaning. Everyone should look at their gifts …
Where Do I Begin? {if I love decorating, diy, cooking and homemaking}
There are so many awesome online courses out there and sometimes it can be hard to know which one to choose! I know that your time and money is so important and that is why I wanted to make finding the RIGHT online course easier for you. The first step we did was create an online digital catalog that would allow you to look at most of our courses all at once and in a beautiful format. The …
Teen Girl Bedroom Makeover
It has been awhile since we had updated our Maddy’s room and wouldn’t you know it that in the meantime she has become a young lady! Her last room update was vintage linens, sweet colors and her favorite color at the time…turquoise. As we were pulling together ideas, colors and patterns of what direction to go we were looking to Maddy and what is authentic to her the whole time. What fun is an awesome room if the person that …
When Country Living Asks How We Keep Our Home Clean…
We were recently asked by County Living Magazine to share some of our tips for keeping our home clean. I wanted to make sure I was extremely honest about what works and doesn’t work in our home. You can read what everyone said HERE but I also wanted to share all of the tips I had sent to them… We are a family of five and some days I feel like we can barely stay above the mess. Kelly and …
Summer Tour of Homes 2015
I am not a design or DIY blog so I am always humbled and honored when bloggers that I adore and admire ask me to be a part of their home tours. This means so much to me because family, faith and friends mean everything to me and HOME is so much at the center of it all. Our home is truly an eclectic mix of what we really love and use…and I hope it shows. To begin this tour …
An Action Packed Monday!
What a Monday we are having! I am not even on my first cup of coffee and look what is already going on… 1. Week four of Studying Under The Masters III just launched and it is FULL of videos by artist Kelly Berkey! This course has lifetime access and it is so full of content that you will be studying, learning, re-watching and growing as an artist for a long time. 2. My week with Life Book 2015 launched …
Things I am Loving Right Now
This time of year is so fun with the changing of the seasons, the extra rain we get in Colorado, finishing up school and the excitement of pool days and vacations around the corner. I have mentioned many times how much I love music playing throughout the day, candles lit, books everywhere and the little things that make our home pretty and cozy. I always like sharing some of these little things that make the day to day beautiful and …
Top 6 Social Media Tips For Creating Balance {For Home and Business}
(These photos have nothing to do with the post but what fun is a post without photos? I thought you would understand.) When you are a stay at home mom, homeschooler and entrepreneur with a home office… your worlds start to collide. There are days that without everything right here at home I know I wouldn’t be able to do all that we get accomplished. Then there are the days when everything coming at me can be a little too …
Step by Step Kitchen Cabinet Painting With Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
One of the questions I get asked the most is regarding how I painted our kitchen cabinets and what do I think of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. I have waited until now to share my opinion because I thought we needed to really live with the cabinets to see how they wore with daily use and to give me time to give an honest opinion. Before we start let me be honest that if I had contacted many people to …
Just Dreaming About It Won’t Get You There
In the new year there can be long lists of dreams for the year and maybe even a yearly bucket list. What I have found to be true is that me just dreaming about something has never led to the actual doing and experiencing. If I want to learn something, go somewhere, spend time with someone… I have to make a PLAN OF ACTION. There have been more times than I can count that I had no idea how I …
2014 Holiday House Walk
{If you like the images on our mantle you can print them out HERE. We are all crazy for them and love how whimsical they are! Alice, I think you are the bees knees.} I am so glad you have stopped by and I can’t wait to welcome you into our home. I have loved home, making home and loving on the people I love for as long as I can remember. The older I get the more I know…truly …
Rosemary Gin Fizz {bottoms up}
Sometimes you have the week that calls for mid week cocktails. Did anyone else realize that it isn’t even midweek? I am clinking my glasses with all of you and if you need a cocktail too… {This recipe is found in one of my very favorite cookbooks}
Want To Get Your Heart Into The Holidays? {This year make it simple and meaningful}
One of my most popular online course is Creatively Made Home {home for the holidays}. This three week course is all about the heart of home and how to make the holidays all about the people you love. I wanted to offer this beautiful and rich course at a discount for the next 72 hours. For the next 72 hours you can get this course for $29! This is 50% off! *There will be 65 videos. 30 project videos and …
Holiday Tablescape Ideas
One of my very favorite things in the whole world is having people in our home and feeding them well. One of the ways I try to make the meal special is the simple details I put into the tablescape. I rarely need to buy much and try to use what I have but make it special just the same. I love to mix and match my dishes and to also pull elements in from the outside. Here are some …
Some of My Fall Favorites {2014}
Fall is my most favorite season because the beautiful change in season, cooler temperatures and the desire to create a more cozy home. This is the time I find myself cuddling next to the fireplace in the morning with my coffee, a book, devotions or just talking to my family. My studio calls to me even more than usual when the temperatures start to drop and the light is flooding in over all of my supplies. Sweaters, boots, hats and …
My Thoughts On Our Marble Countertops
I have found that so many people have very strong opinions about having marble countertops. A few days after we had our marble island counter installed an acquaintance was in our home and this was her response as she ran her hands over our marble… “Oh, my! You went with marble! Are you going to regret that?” Hmm I won’t even go into the next five minutes of me defending the honor of my shamed marble. This wasn’t my first …
Fall Decorating Ideas {Finding Fall Home Tour}
Do I get to wear boots yet? That is what fall is all about! OK, maybe fall is amazing for other things too. How about I was married in October, two of my babies were born in the fall, the cooler temperatures, bulky sweaters, getting all cozy and reading a book, family and friends gathering together more, crunching of the leaves under your awesome boots that you finally get to wear again… I’m sorry I didn’t mean to go back …
IKEA Hack {how we built our kitchen island}
When we made the decision to rip out our existing island we had planned on paying a contractor to do the work. What did we know and how could we take on a project this big? We knew we didn’t want what we had but where would we even begin to pick out the insides of the cabinets and basic design? As we were walking through IKEA one night we both stopped in our tracks and were really looking at …
Top Ten {Links That Inspired This Week}
Between blogs, songs and websites it is hard to just share 10 fun links. I hope you enjoy this Top Ten! * Because sometimes what we really need comes in a different package. 1. http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2014/08/god-gave-us-son/ * I love this girl and her style is amazing! 2. http://www.flowerpatchfarmgirl.com/2014/08/secondhand-wardrobe-challenge.html * I can’t stop thinking about this vanity. I have already begged my husband to create this in our basement bathroom. 3. http://heatherbullard.com/2014/08/diy-concrete-vanity/#more-9727 * This is the coolest project! 4. http://www.jenniferrizzo.com/2014/08/creating-jewelry-storage-trays-upcycled-thrift-store-finds.html * …
Kitchen Remodel {Before and After}
Of any project that we have ever done in our home this project made the biggest impact! We built our home a little over 11 years ago so everything was still nice in our kitchen but my taste had changed. It took me about four years to convince my husband to go along with painting the cabinets. What really sold him on going for it was the awesome instruction we received from Amber and Brad at Shades of Amber. They …
Original Paintings For Sale
Good Morning! I haven’t listed original paintings for awhile and thought it was a good time to share some of the art I have made over the past months. I seem to pile them up around the studio and to not put them out into the world. I am trying to do better about that. Thank you for taking a look… Mrs. Bramhill SOLD It Is Well Mrs. Carpenter Missing Pieces Hello, friend! Between Two Worlds SOLD Braver Than She …
Brand New Photoshop Course!
Have you always wanted to learn how to create repeat patterns with your own sketching, painting or digital art? Have you been looking for ways to create your own wallpaper, fabrics or paper designs? Have you just wanted to understand Photoshop better and see how you can use it in your art work? I am beyond thrilled and honored to have licensed artist Bari J teaching Pattern Play | Create Your Own Professional Patterns in Photoshop with Ease. Learn …
Top 6 Social Media Tips For Creating Balance {For Home and Business}
(These photos have nothing to do with the post but what fun is a post without photos? I thought you would understand.) When you are a stay at home mom, homeschooler and entrepreneur with a home office… your worlds start to collide. There are days that without everything right here at home I know I wouldn’t be able to do all that we get accomplished. Then there are the days when everything coming at me can be a little too …
Creativity Takes Courage {Cat Bude}
*** For those of you that are new to the blog I want to tell you a little bit about the free series. My creative network offers free videos, new online courses, live “chats” and now interviews with courageous lovelies from around the world. Over the past two years I have had the opportunity to interview some of my favorite creative women and business owners. You can see the talented list of interviewees over on my creative network under Creativity …
New Bags Are In The Shop!
We were going to wait until after Christmas to add new products to the shop but we were getting so many emails that we are adding the bags! We have all new bags in the shop and we have called in all of our staff to work hard to make sure all of the bags get out in time for Christmas. All orders placed between December 11 and 14 will be shipped out priority before Monday. The shop will close …
Creativity Takes Courage {Kelly Barton}
The next Creativity Takes Courage interview begins right now… *** For those of you that are new to the blog I want to tell you a little bit about the free series. My creative network offers free videos, new online courses, live “chats” and now interviews with courageous lovelies from around the world. Over the past two years I have had the opportunity to interview some of my favorite creative women and business owners. You can see the talented list …
Do You Respect Your Gifts {Or Just Expect Others To Do It For You?}
I remember when I was a brand new mom and I would go weeks without having time to myself. I didn’t mean to and I knew it wasn’t healthy at the same time. I wouldn’t say something to my husband until I was at the point of losing my mind or wanting to jump in my car and drive for days. I don’t know if I was needing my husband to tell me it was OK to have time for …
Drum Roll Please {The Winner of The Jane Eyre Collection Giveaway}
Good morning! Thank you for the huge and overwhelming response to the new collection! {The new art deco photo set with wood stump stand} We are almost completely sold out. We are speechless and soooo thankful for all of you. Thank you for sharing the collection with so many of your friends. I know there were some that were disappointed that by the time they knew about the new collection so much was sold out. I wanted to let you …
Welcome To The Jane Eyre Collection! {a giveaway too}
We launched the Jane Eyre Collection at 5pm MST on Saturday night and the response was amazing! *** Thank you for loving the new bags and jewelry and for selling out some bags so quickly. Our collections are about storytelling and the gathering of vintage fabrics, new fabrics, vintage buttons, embellishments and vintage findings for the jewelry is one of the beautiful and exciting parts about offering our two collections a year. I appreciate so much that we have customers …
The Jane Eyre Collection {Don’t Miss The Launch}
I wanted to let you know that the brand new Jane Eyre Collection will be available this Saturday, July 19th at 5pm MST. I hope you love all of the designs, fabrics and details in this collection. The Jane Eyre Collection will have vintage pieces, photography collections, jewelry created from vintage findings and new bags from new and vintage fabrics! Here is a peek at the Jane Eyre Collection… Thank you for taking a peek at the new line and …
Art Auction Begins Today!
I just wanted to let you all know that I am one of many artists that have donated to an art auction to benefit our friend Lorraine Lewis. The auction will begin on June 14 at 9am MST and run for 24 hours. Go to heart_and_hand on Instagram to view the art pieces up for auction. I have also donated one piece titled For Such a Time as This. It is an acyclic painting with vintage papers with a vintage …
Who Are They Studying Under?
Good morning! I am so thrilled about your excitement over Studying Under The Masters {becoming an apprentice}! For those of you that have registered (and those of you that may be hearing about it for the first time) I wanted to share WHO the teachers will be studying under. First of all I want to say that having these eight incredible artists join me on this creative journey is humbling. I adore each of these women for their creativity and …
Arsty Goodness Begins Today {come see the projects!}
The 12 Arsty Ornaments of Christmas begins today! To read more click HERE. To register click HERE. Here is a peek at the video projects! This course is full of such creative teachers. Here is the line up: Teresa Collins, Jenny Doh, Christy Tomlinson, Jeanne Oliver, Margie Romney-Aslett, Amy Tan, Julie-FieFan Blazar, Maggie Holmes, Junelle Jacobsen, Tamara Laporte, Alisa Burke and Chrissy Garder. See you in class! This is my project. I am teaching how to paint a woodland girl …
Gathering Collection {and a giveaway}
We have added all of the new product in the shop and want to celebrate with you! We hope you love the new Gathering Collection. To celebrate with you I would LOVE to give away one Paige Camera Bag! The Paige Camera Bag is made from gorgeous upholstery weight Damask fabric. The inside is made from a complimentary (and fun) chevron print. To enter for the drawing for the Paige Camera Bag all you need to do is to leave …
The New Collection Has Arrived!
The Gathering Collection has arrived! We hope you love the beautiful fabrics (both vintage and new) that we have used. I am especially excited about the special embroidery work that we have included in this collection. With my love of France and especially the embroidery that can be found on the vintage French linens…I am giddy to see this special touch on many of our bags. All of the bags have been added and we will be adding the vintage …
My Art Sneak Peek!
I have been asked again to teach for Christy Tomlinson in her annual The 12 Artsy Ornaments of Christmas! This year I will teaching how to make two projects! We will make hand painted wall art and ornaments and I can’t wait to share the project. In the past I taught how to make a yarn and cloth wreath and how to carve your own stamps for your art, gift wrap, tags etc. This year I want to just teach …
Gathering {a new collection coming next week}
It has been a busy (but fun) fall and I thank you for your patience while you have waited for our winter bag collection. Next Monday we will have new bags (and a few other treasures) in the shop. We can’t wait to show you what we have been working on. I know you will love the fabrics and extra details that have gone into this collection. See you on Monday! ***** Only six more days until the 12 Artsy …
How We Celebrate Birthdays
I love birthdays! One whole day to love on just one person. One day that allows you to give a person a glimpse into how much their life…means in yours. It was almost 15 years ago that our birthday tradition began… It was my birthday during our first year of marriage and my day started off with a stack of envelopes. Keep in mind that we barely had any money in those years but what followed made me feel so …
New Prints In The Shop
I have two new prints in the shop! Come on over and check them out… Flower Girl Crown of Roses These new prints are being printed on high quality watercolor paper. This paper and quality is exceptional for creating the depth and detail of the original work. Watercolors and Flowers {an introduction to watercolor painting} just began this week! We would love to have you in class.
I Want To Celebrate With You! {Huge Giveaways and Sale}
Only 9 months ago we launched our new creative network jeanneoliver.ning.com. I hoped that we would have 2,000 members before January 2014. Here we are still five months away from 2014 and we have almost 6,000 members creating and connecting. MY HEART IS FULL! Thank you! I wish I could open up my home and backyard and we could all celebrate face to face. THAT is how I would prefer to thank you and celebrate the beauty of creating. It …
New Bags Are In The Shop!
This summer we will be releasing new products throughout the summer. This is very different from how we have released our new products and hopefully you will enjoy the shop updates over the next months with vintage items, new cuffs, jewelry and art. Today I am thrilled to have some new bags in the shop! We brought back our popular Elsie linen messenger bag and we have two brand new bags that you will LOVE! I would like to introduce …
Original Paintings {For Sale}
I don’t do this very often {and I think it may be out of sheer laziness } but I am so happy to offer you some of my original paintings. Please note that all of the wonderful details of a painting do not always show online, colors may different based upon your monitor etc. I have included the piece, name, size and cost (and story if there is one). ALL PRICES INCLUDE SHIPPING. Please email me at jeanneoli@hotmail.com if you …
There is Room For All Of Us {Give It Away}
I don’t know who you surround yourself with but I hope they are your cheerleaders. I hope you have a network that you can turn to that shares, gives, lavishes. Lavishes. Pretty cool word if you ask me. A word to me that means abundance and overflowing. People email me daily thanking me for what I share in my courses and for giving so much information away. Let me tell you a secret…..it was never mine. I get beautiful emails …
Rambling on a Friday Afternoon
{Myer lemons arrived from a sweet friend. My water has never tasted so good} What do I do when I have a million things I should be doing?? I write a blog post. I am amazing like that. Procrastination in all of its glory right here friends! {Do you ever have your child “freeze” so you can grab a camera. Me neither.} First off I wanted to tell you how excited I was when I woke up today and saw …
The Journey of Letting Go {My Brand New Art Course and a Giveaway}
The Journey of Letting Go {Creating Beauty from Ashes} begins April 8th! This is a brand new four week e-course. I am so excited to get all messy again with all of you! We will play with… *Backgrounds *Coptic Binding *Journaling *Journaling Prompts *Art Technique Prompts *Watercolors *Clay *Mixed Media Girls *Faces *Digital Art *Pastels *Charcoal *Collage *Art With a Dremel and so much more! I love to connect with women through art and I am so excited about the …
New Bags Are In The Shop!
We were going to wait until after Christmas to add new products to the shop but we were getting so many emails that we are adding the bags! We have all new bags in the shop and we have called in all of our staff to work hard to make sure all of the bags get out in time for Christmas. All orders placed between December 11 and 14 will be shipped out priority before Monday. The shop will close …
The Living Studio Normandy, France {registration is open}
My heart behind The Living Studio is that we will all learn to explore and create wherever we live. I hope to inspire people to step out of the comfort of their studios and out into the world and boldly create based upon the beauty all around them. This unique retreat combines my love of travel and creating and connecting with other women. I don’t know how many times over the years I had walked past a person sketching in …
Creativity Takes Courage {Kelly Barton}
The next Creativity Takes Courage interview begins right now… *** For those of you that are new to the blog I want to tell you a little bit about the free series. My creative network offers free videos, new online courses, live “chats” and now interviews with courageous lovelies from around the world. Over the past two years I have had the opportunity to interview some of my favorite creative women and business owners. You can see the talented list …
Want To Get Your Heart Into The Holidays? {This year make it simple and meaningful}
One of my most popular online course is Creatively Made Home {home for the holidays}. This three week course is all about the heart of home and how to make the holidays all about the people you love. I wanted to offer this beautiful and rich course at a discount for the next 72 hours. For the next 72 hours you can get this course for $29! This is 50% off! *There will be 65 videos. 30 project videos and …
Holiday Tablescape Ideas
One of my very favorite things in the whole world is having people in our home and feeding them well. One of the ways I try to make the meal special is the simple details I put into the tablescape. I rarely need to buy much and try to use what I have but make it special just the same. I love to mix and match my dishes and to also pull elements in from the outside. Here are some …
Some of My Fall Favorites {2014}
Fall is my most favorite season because the beautiful change in season, cooler temperatures and the desire to create a more cozy home. This is the time I find myself cuddling next to the fireplace in the morning with my coffee, a book, devotions or just talking to my family. My studio calls to me even more than usual when the temperatures start to drop and the light is flooding in over all of my supplies. Sweaters, boots, hats and …
When Life Wakes You Up {uncovering spontaneity}
Last September while walking around Arlington National Cemetery with my family I received a message from my doctor that some recent tests had shown some abnormal cells and I needed to come in. I immediately called the nurse back that had left the message and asked, “Are you saying they are cancer cells?”. She told me she couldn’t tell me any more and would have the doctor call me back the next day. The next day? I slowly sat down …
Help Me Choose My New Glasses {survey included}
Hello! I love my current glasses by Tom Ford but I love to accessorize and every time I see the awesome glasses from Warby Parker I want them all! I finally just bit the bullet and ordered five pairs to try on and hopefully find a few new glasses to rotate with my wardrobe and mood. I was hoping you guys could help me out and give me your opinions. 1. Chamberlain Saddle Sage 2. Baxter Whiskey Tortoise 3. Chandler …
Top 10 {Things that are making the day to day a little sweeter}
I always enjoy seeing what others are reading, listening to, eating, watching etc. Face it…I’m nosy! I know you guys do too so I wanted to share my top 10 things that are making my day to day a little sweeter. 1. Last winter our home was photographed for a book and the best part of the whole thing is that my good friend Jennifer Rizzo is the author! Her new book is NOW on pre-order and you can order …
Drum Roll Please {The Winner of The Jane Eyre Collection Giveaway}
Good morning! Thank you for the huge and overwhelming response to the new collection! {The new art deco photo set with wood stump stand} We are almost completely sold out. We are speechless and soooo thankful for all of you. Thank you for sharing the collection with so many of your friends. I know there were some that were disappointed that by the time they knew about the new collection so much was sold out. I wanted to let you …
My Top Ten Favorite Decorating Blogs
I love a good decorating blog and I am so glad that there are so many creative bloggers out their that share there love of making a home beautiful AND lived in. I don’t pick these blogs because they have great DIY, perfect vignettes, perfect rooms and everything looks always organized and clean. I choose these blogs because they are real. Each one shares the real of life in their blog, a bit of the messy and then they also …
Some of my Favorites {Come and Join Us}
I was inspired all last week with the 2013 Holiday Housewalk! 32 creative bloggers all coming together and opening their home was so much fun to be a part of. I loved so much about each home but I put together a little collage of some of my favorites. Once I put them together I thought it was obvious how much I love a touch of black in my decor and typography! If you want to see the whole tour …
The New Collection Has Arrived!
The Gathering Collection has arrived! We hope you love the beautiful fabrics (both vintage and new) that we have used. I am especially excited about the special embroidery work that we have included in this collection. With my love of France and especially the embroidery that can be found on the vintage French linens…I am giddy to see this special touch on many of our bags. All of the bags have been added and we will be adding the vintage …
Gathering {a new collection coming next week}
It has been a busy (but fun) fall and I thank you for your patience while you have waited for our winter bag collection. Next Monday we will have new bags (and a few other treasures) in the shop. We can’t wait to show you what we have been working on. I know you will love the fabrics and extra details that have gone into this collection. See you on Monday! ***** Only six more days until the 12 Artsy …
A Living Magazine {and a video for you too}
Before I get started I wanted you to see a video that I made just for you. I wanted you to hear a little bit from me about the course and why I would even make it in the first place. {and yes…I have bangs now…and I am really diggin’ them and so is my family…we need to get out more} {to watch the video at the highest quality click the HD in the right hand corner} In 7 days …
Teen Boy Bedroom Makeover {before and after}
Let me tell you…this project was a doozy. Everyone shares girl room makeovers but no one is spreading the love on teen boy rooms. Let me backtrack a bit. Our Jack is 13 and has had the same paint on the walls for the past 10 years. 10 years. When his friends would tell him how cool the clouds were on his ceiling he looked at them like they were dorks! He hadn’t even asked for a whole room makeover…he …
How We Celebrate Birthdays
I love birthdays! One whole day to love on just one person. One day that allows you to give a person a glimpse into how much their life…means in yours. It was almost 15 years ago that our birthday tradition began… It was my birthday during our first year of marriage and my day started off with a stack of envelopes. Keep in mind that we barely had any money in those years but what followed made me feel so …
There is Room For All Of Us {Give It Away}
I don’t know who you surround yourself with but I hope they are your cheerleaders. I hope you have a network that you can turn to that shares, gives, lavishes. Lavishes. Pretty cool word if you ask me. A word to me that means abundance and overflowing. People email me daily thanking me for what I share in my courses and for giving so much information away. Let me tell you a secret…..it was never mine. I get beautiful emails …
Blah, Blah, Blah and Other Ramblings
I feel like I am still getting into the groove of the new year. The past two years I have gone HERE to connect and focus my creativity and business. It starts today and I am kicking myself for not going. I had forgotten that January and February can be hard to put it nicely. I didn’t sign up because I really, really, really want to go to the NYC version. Tickets sell out FAST so I better be on …
My Favorite Things of 2012 {Beauty Favs}
Today I am sharing my Beauty Favorites of 2012. You can also see my Business Favorites, Creative Favorites and Home Favorites. When I was growing up I loved nothing more then my Kit n Kaboodle. Seriously…that thing rocked! I would buy the 2,054 eyeshadow collection from the drug store. I think there may have been some days when I used all the colors at once. Don’t judge. Those were some crazy years in the 80s! I know I could easily …
My Favorite Things of 2012 {Home Favs}
Today I want to share my Home Favorites of 2012. You can see my Business Favorites of 2012 HERE and my Creative Favorites of 2012 HERE. I think home favorites are so different then some of the others I will be sharing this week. Our home is about connecting, relaxing and living together. It is not so much about the things as the spaces we have created and what we love about them. It is the little things. I have …
My Favorite Things of 2012 {Business Favs}
I am still trying to come to terms with the fact that we are in 2013:-) I loved 2012. It was truly a year of growth and seeing a clearer path. It was a year of appreciation and connection. It was a year of figuring out what we really wanted and working hard in many areas to hold on to it. Working hard for the things that really matter. I always like to do a favorite things each year. I …
Holiday House Walk 2012 {Welcome To Our Home}
Welcome to our home! I am so excited that you are here. First of all I wanted to thank my sweet friend, Jennifer Rizzo, for asking me back this year to show you our home all dressed up for Christmas. I love that Jen puts this house walk together and it is such a fun way to get inspired for the holidays (and to get my act together and get my house decorated early:-)). I know you have been loving …
Launch Delayed {and other matters of National Security}
Good evening everyone! Well, there is a first time for everything. Tomorrow we are not able to launch our new collection because my whole family has been fighting the flu since last Thursday. Every. Single. One. With Christmas boxes exploding all over our home we have taken turns getting sick and trying to take care of each other. So, as much as I wish I could take off my hat and rip off open my shirt and show my Wonder …
Random Thoughts and Ramblings
Our Thanksgiving was just as I imagined with just a bit more time in the kitchen than I imagined. I guess food doesn’t cook itself…weird. We hiked, went to see THIS movie, made THIS recipe and stuffed our face with THIS. We ended our night with “Little Women” and I feel like the Christmas season has now officially begun. No matter how many times I see the movie I just can’t get into Amy’s character (Susan Sarandon/Winona Ryder version). Does …
Bluegrass, Brothers and Some Weed {there may have been a quick getaway too}
I am sorry that I have been so absent here on my blog but it is summer and our days have been full of sun, company, the pool and creating. As you know from my last post my friend Kim was out for a visit. We wanted to do something really special while she was here that would always remind her of Colorado. We surprised her with tickets to see the Avett Brothers at Red Rocks Amphitheater. It doesn’t get …
Reflections of Paris {Final Installment}
This will be the final photos from my trip to Paris in the summer of 2010. You can find the other posts HERE, HERE and HERE. I have loved reminiscing about my time in France. {I would like to point out that it was very windy…I am not really pregnant:-)} My final day is Paris was seeing some of the architecture that would be a sin if you missed. {FYI…it is a little bit perfection to be at the Louvre …
Reflections of Paris {part II}
Today I will continue with my month long series Reflections of Paris. You can see last weeks post HERE. In 2010 I spent two weeks in the South of France with the end of my trip in Paris. Only three short nights in Paris but enough time to fall in love with the city. I will be going back to Paris this fall with my husband to celebrate my 40th birthday (which was in May). After my time in Paris …
Our Time In Farmland {moo}
First of all I would like to thank all of you that commented in my Sometimes in the Pain post. I was overwhelmed by your response and also the countless private emails I received. I wrote that for me. I wrote that for my own family. To truth is that when I sat down to do the post I was just going to show photos from our trip home. At the last minute it quickly spilled out. I pressed publish …
An Artful Summer {classes and retreats}
We are busy trying to finish up school and most of me wants to just call it good and call it quits. I won’t. I swear. I think I can. I think I can. I think I can. I am already drooling at the thought of creating art all summer and creating more with my kids. If you want to create with me I want to give you a few options. First, I have our popular Creatively Made {rediscovering the …
Reflections Of Paris {Part I}
I don’t know why I never shared with you all of my photos from Paris. After all of my photos from the South of France maybe I felt like you had seen enough and needed a break. I think I meant to show them after a few months and here I am almost two years later. How has two years past since the Chateau Dumas, hidden brocantes and sidewalk cafes? Maybe I knew deep down that I could never share …
It is worth a trip to France {just for the flea markets}
Opening my suitcase after coming home from France was like traveling back on my journey. As I pushed dirty clothes to the side I uncovered vintage silver, oil paintings, old French letters. My trip brought me overflowing treasures. A trip to France is not a regular extravagance for me. A trip to France is a treasure in itself. My dear friend ,Tracey Leber of French Larkspur, makes regular trips to France and now Belgium to fill her suitcases just for …
Fashion 411 {you guys really like to send emails}
First of all THANK YOU so much for all of the sweet comments and emails about my leg. It is has really come a long ways these past 10 days! Crazy, crazy accident but so thankful that the Dr was able to get the infection under control. I also think the Lord had a little bit to do with it too:-) Week three of our e-course is underway and I am packing up to head to California. I am getting all …
Positive Gossip
This past January I went to Alt with Kimberly, Mel and Estelle. I wrote about the weekend HERE. The last night of the conference we were all relaxing, talking and having a few drinks before we all went our separate ways the next morning. Around the table with me was Kim, Mel, Estelle, Beefy, Melissa, Courtney and Melissa (I wonder what the popular name was 30 something years ago..hmmmm). Towards the end of the night Kim suggested that we play …
San Fran {a little recap}
A week ago today I was up at 4 am to get ready for my girl’s weekend in San Francisco. I don’t do mornings which shows how much I love these girls and San Fran! I am usually so focused on the kids, family and the business that I need a getaway like this or I am bad about getting together with people. I love people but I just love being home, reading with the kids,taking walks and creating in …
If You Were Not Able To Make It To Alt {Let Me Help You Out}
Today was the first day that I had the time to look at the notes I took while I was at the Altitude Design Summit (or Alt). Each day was filled with amazing panels with successful panelist talking about social media and how to grow your business. This was my second year at Alt and I didn’t take as many notes as last year but I did socialize more:-) If you were not able to make it to Alt I …
Old Roads {and making room for the new ones}
Dinner was on the table at the farm and my children were nowhere to be found. My brother obligingly set off to find them. I also went out to check on their progress of pulling themselves away from the freedom and wonder of the farm….to obey. All three of them were running down the country lane. I rushed back into the house to grab my camera and quickly capture them, the setting sun, the light on the golden cornstalks. It …
A Girls Weekend Giveaway {Yes, I am totally serious}
When was the last time that you took a little weekend away with your girlfriends? {If it has been awhile…keep reading because this post is gonna GET GOOD!!!} As my children are getting older I have been able to enjoy that luxury more than when they were babies. There were MANY years that I was lucky to get away for one day every six months!!! HAHA…you know it is true! I am heading to Illinois in three short weeks …
Galena {I Heart You Still}
Galena, I love you! Blah, blah, blah….. I know I have told you many times over the years how much I love this little town in Illinois…but I am going to tell you again. Deal:-) I can’t help it…. Historic downtown, trolleys, water, huge trees, sculptures, wonderful restaurants, quaint coffee shops, many local artists, music on the street, gorgeous old homes with the American flag flapping in the wind…. Do you understand? Do you now know why I keep telling …
Teaching {pure joy}
When I was little I used to go all around the neighborhood and round up other children to play school with me. It is no surprise to me how much I have loved teaching my own children. What has been so much fun and unexpected is all the incredible opportunities I have had over the past 1 1/2 years to teach other women. I love talking and connecting with women from all over and creating together. While I was in …
Impromptu Photo Shoot {and the witness protection program}
I told you that my friend, Christy, got her closest girlfriends together for a little girl time in the mountains of Utah. She calls her closest friends “trues”…and I think that is one of the sweetest words to describe a real friendship. I count it among my many blessings that Christy and I are close friends. Most of the women I knew (and truly cared about) before the trip but I also had the opportunity to meet a new girl …
Art Among The Horses {maybe a few chickens too}
I will be traveling, with my wares:-), to Illinois next month to sell at the Na-Da Farm Sale. I will have all my cloth items from the new line (more coming this week about that), prints, original art and jewelry. It is fun to head “home” for a sale and get to see my family and old friends at the same time. The sale has incredible artists coming to sell and Fifi O’Neill will be there signing her new book …
Laughter and tears {girl’s trip}
I got home on Wednesday night really late. I had just gotten home from a four day getaway with friends. My friend Christy had put a little group of her closest friends together. Lucky for me…some of her closest friends are girls I love too! We all rented a house in the mountains of Utah. We didn’t have a plan. That is good because all we really did was sit around in our pajamas and laugh, cry and then laugh …
Packing Up {but only for the night}
(all photos are from Flora’s blog) I should be packing right now but instead I am on the computer..surprise, surprise! I am heading to Boulder tonight for the opening ceremony of the Makerie and then staying the night for an art class tomorrow. I am really excited to be taking a class from Flora Bowley. I love her style and use of color. This will be out of my comfort zone….and that is good. It can be hard to create …
When the Waldorf and the Country Inn and Suites Path’s Cross{Part II}
After we left the Waldorf we headed to the other side of the mountain to ski Solitude. We had gotten a late start so we were only skiing for the afternoon. Kelly is the only one that owns skis so the rest of us were renting. When we think we will actually get up to ski enough we will get passes and rent ski equipment for the season…but for right now we rent each time. It is more work to …
When the Waldorf and the Country Inn and Suites Path’s Cross{it gets ugly}
I will probably not offer you much life changing advice on this blog…..but this time is different. Never, I repeat never start your vacation at the Waldorf Astoria and end it at the Country Inn and Suites. Let me back up. It was one of the last get together at the ALT Design Summit. The conference room was full and they were closing the conference. One of the last announcements before the final speaker was to announce the winner of …
When My Words Say One Thing {and my actions say another}
We had packed up our bags and eaten our breakfast. We were almost ready to head back to Colorado from Utah. We had spent the past three days up in the mountains skiing as a family. This was the first time we had all skied together as a family (he has taken each of the children up separately) and nothing could have made Kelly happier. As we were getting up from breakfast Kelly said, “Oh, no! I left my license …
Top Ten List {Dream Girls 2}
{Top Ten List} 1. Beef Bourguignon tastes the best when you are sitting around a table with a dear friend 2. When I heard the theme was hillbilly…I didn’t really have any concept of hillbilly! 3. That being hit on at the Yella Beak by a woman is fine with me at this point in my life. 4. Brainstorming with creative women helps me to come home more inspired and focused than before. 5. 40 women should not solder without …
Na-Da Farm {Come See Me}
{All photos on this post are by the talented Traci Thorson} Last summer, while I was visiting my parents, I was able to take the short drive to Na-Da Farm. We both homeschool our children, the kids had recently become pen pals and we were all looking forward to meeting each other in person. From the moment we drove onto their property we couldn’t help but smile. Jason and Anne Marie have paid such beautiful attention to details throughout their …
Alt {The Recap}
I have a little time right now so I am taking advantage of it to tell you about Alt! It was amazing. Really. Incredible. Talented women/men everywhere. Wonderful speakers and the perfect environment to have your mind blown away by all the talent out there. Before we begin I have to tell you that I linked as much as I could..because I LOVE YOU! It took me forever…but that is how deep my love is! These girlies were my roomies. …