Sweet and Twisted Thoughts

Go Go Plantzilla

2012-01-11T13:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, boils and ghouls, I have yet another installment of my amazing featured shops posts! If you like unconventional plants or have a green thumb, you will love what this shop has in store!

The shop is called Plantzilla and is owned by a local gal! She has an awesome business going and her knowledge of plants will amaze you!

Some info about the shop owner:

Carolyn, but most people call me C or Carl nowadays, thanks to my roomie. I work as a cell culture scientist in Baltimore, so every day is an adventure into the weird, gross or sciency.

2. What kinds of items do you sell in your shop?

The chlorophyll having kind, mostly. I sell tillandsias or air plants in terrariums and laboratory glassware, moss and lichen terrariums, living planted displays, succulents, potted plants during warmer weather, and the occasional oddity I really want to share.

3. How did you get into making the glass gardens?

I've always liked air plants, but usually you only see the same one species in nurseries or greenhouses. I stumbled upon a few of the more colorful varieties by chance while plant shopping, and immediately became totally obsessed.

4. Do you grow the plants yourself?

I'm working on it! The mosses I find in the woods, Maryland keeps them happy for me until I want to make a terrarium :) Potted plants and soil having planters come from clones I make off my own specimens; I have well over 100 different plants in my home at the moment, including a 6 foot tall meyer lemon I've raised from a cutting and some dangerously large cacti. I have a little nursery started for the air plants filled with pups I've collected so far and should be able to raise more of them from scratch myself as time goes on. I really need a greenhouse, but MD weather combined with my townhouse backyard make that more of a future goal.

5. How did you get into growing tropical and desert house plants? and how long have you been doing this?

I've been growing, propagating, gifting, and collecting plants for over ten years now. They're my happy place. It all started freshman year of college, someone gave me a miniature rose plant as a welcome gift, and I was hooked.

6. How would you describe your process? How much time do you put into just one of your planted items?

It takes me about an hour a day just to water all of my plants, plus add on about 30 minutes of grooming, rearranging, inspecting... and that's not counting days when everything wants to be repotted! My air plants are raised in this ridiculous growing center I built out of floral wire, shop lights and industrial steel tables I salvaged from work. For them, it would be hard to estimate how much time I spend per plant, but they get a lot of attention. Moss terrariums are pretty labor intensive, depending on the size of the container opening. I'm picky, so I can spend hours on a small one, making sure the rock lines are even and the plants look their best!

7. Do you have a favorite item in your shop? If so, which one?

I always like the items that few others do, I don't know why, but I'll get really excited to list something and then... nothing. It's kind of hilarious. I really like items made with laboratory glassware and air plant terrariums with the xero x brachy species, it's my favorite tillandsia.

8. Are you working on anything new for your shop that you would like to share?

I actually just posted a ton of new items in the past week, so I'm mostly just working on raising my plant friends, and hopefully learning how to propagate the air plants as efficiently as possible. It's so much more rewarding to me to use plants I raised from scratch, but it's a learning process.

9. What is your most favorite type of plant? You can pick one for both tropical and desert since you grow both ;)

My favorite desert/dry plant is hands down the Euphorbia Crown of Thorns. I have four huge specimens in my home, and have been working on propagating them for years. I've got a good system down, but they are unbelievably slow growing so those plants are usually reserved for special gifts. Tropical plant would have to be hibiscus, though I like the hardy varieties as well and have a few inside AND outside my home. Their giant, gorgeous flowers are just amazing; I still can't believe they're real.

10. Is there any type of plant you haven't made a terrarium for yet, but would like to?

I would love to make a huge wardian case fern terrarium, like was popular in the Victorian era. I wouldn't have anywhere to put it, and couldn't ship it, but it would be awesome :)

11. Where would you like to see your shop progress to in the next 5 years?

If I could grow my shop just big enough to have a little greenhouse, and maybe hire my sister part time to help out, I would be perfectly content.

12. What advice would you give to a new seller on Etsy?

Don't expect things to happen overnight. When I got started, I was so discouraged because it took like a month to even get a favorite! I thought I had the worst, cheesiest, junky shop ever, but thankfully my friends were supportive and convinced me to stick with it. Joining a team (or 20) is also helpful, as it gives one opportunities to put their stuff out there, and get help from other crafters who have been doing this for years.

13. Since you are from Maryland, what is your favorite place in Baltimore to visit? If you don't go to Baltimore, you can name a local hag out.

Cheers lounge in Eldersburg, it's about 30 minutes outside the city. Horrible 70s wood paneled decor, the most random assortment of people in one place you'll ever see, and the best fried chicken in MD. Plus, they have Guinness on tap. I love that place.

The next time you're on Etsy, check out Plantzilla. You can also find more info on Facebook.

To All A Good Fright

2011-12-18T11:06:00.000-08:00

You better watch out. You better not cry. You better not pout I'm telling you why, Santa Claus is coming to town. Ohhh, and did I mention he has been institutionalized and recently escaped with an axe in hand?

I enjoy Christmas. I don't get balls to the wall excited, but I like it. What can I say, I am a huge sucker for lights and glitter! I don't get into the music, I don't run around in a Santa hat, but I celebrate it. I put up my tree and lights and I spend cold nights drinking hot chocolate while watching Christmas movies. However, you won't watch me watching Miracle on 34th Street. I tend to like Christmas movies with a bit a blood, guts, murder, and mayhem! So, for those of you that love horror movies and Christmas, I have a list of Xmas horror flicks to get you in a festive mood!

My first recommendation is an oldie, but a goodie, Gremlins!

For those of you that haven't seen this or it's sequel I will fill you in. A man purchases a cute little critter for his son for Christmas. He goes against the clerks advice on taking care of the little guy and that is when the madness begins!

On a similar theme of creepy critters comes the film, Elves! This is about a young woman who discovers that she is the focus of an evil nazi experiment involving selective breeding and summoned elves, an attempt to create a race of supermen. She and two of her friends are trapped in a department store with an elf, and only Dan Haggerty, as the renegade loose-cannon Santa Claus, can save them

One of my lines is when Kristen's mom tells her that she looks horrible and Kristen replies, "Yeah, well, I had a rough day at work... Santa got murdered."

Another older film that is awesome is called Silent Night, Bloody Night. This one is about a man that inherits a mansion that turns out to be an old mental hospital. "The mansion... the madness... the maniac... no escape." The new owner begins to explore the mansions past and that's when things start to get good!

This film has a kick ass cast with lots of Andy Warhol favorites including including Mary Woronov, Jack Smith, Ondine and Candy Darling! John Carradine also joins the cast in this horror flick.

I sort of think that there is one film that always comes to mind when people think of Christmas and creepy movies, despite how uncreepy this film is. If you are a Tim Burton fan you know that I am talking about The Nightmare Before Christmas.

This stop-motion film is filled with colorful characters, songs that will get stuck in your head, and a Christmas favorite forever!

For those of you that like movies with sequels, I have an awesome film that has not one or two sequels, but four making a total of five films in this series making it the longest Christmas horror movie series to date! It is called Silent Night, Deadly Night. This first film is about young Billy who is sent to an orphanage after his parents are murdered. The Mother Superior of the orphanage isn't the kindest soul and that helps transform Billy into the a deranged lunatic that goes on a killing spree dressed as Santa!

The sequel is called Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2... I know, catchy. This film is about Ricky, the brother of the killer in the first film. Ricky talks to a psychiatrist about how he became a brutal killer after his brother died, leading back to Mother Superior.

The third installment of this series is called Silent Night, Deadly Night: Better Watch Out! In this one, Ricky Caldwell, the "Santa Claus Killer," once thought dead, has been brought back to life by a crazed scientist. A blind woman finds that she is somehow psychically connected to the reanimated serial killer.

The fourth film is called Silent Night, Deadly Night: Initiation. In this one, a reporter investigating the bizarre death of a woman who leaped from a building in flames finds herself mixed up in a cult of witches who are making her part of their sacrificial ceremony during the Christmas season. The cult is dedicated to the Egyptian God, Isis.

The final film is Silent Night, Dead Night: The Toymaker. A young boy sees his father killed by a toy that was anonymously delivered to his house. After that, he is too traumatized to speak, and his mother must deal with both him and the loss of her husband. Meanwhile, a toy maker named Joe Peto builds some suspicious-looking toys, and a mysterious man creeps around both the toy store and the boy's house...but who is responsible for the killer toys?

This list continues with a favorite of mine, P2.

This one is very easy to explain. A lady is trapped in a parking garage by a psychopath who is trying to kill her on Christmas Eve. This one is awesome and worth watching if you love Wes Bentley like I do.

For you wrestling fans, I have a kick ass Christmas horror flick for you too starring Bill Goldberg. This one is called Santa's Slay!

In this film Santa is actually a demon that lost a game with an angel and as a result has to deliver toys to children every year on Christmas Eve for 1000 years. When his time is up he returns to his old ways going on a killing spree!

My absolute favorite holiday horror film of all time is Black Christmas! I love the original, I love the remake, I love love love love love this one!

It's about an escaped maniac, Billy, returns to his childhood home on Christmas Eve, which is now a sorority house, and begins to murder the sorority sisters one by one. Billy has quite a past and some strange traditions he picked up from his last Christmas outside of the nuthouse!

This may be one of those films you don't sit down and watch with the family if they have a weak stomach, scare easily, or hate awesome horror movies. Just sayin.

Another older film that is a bit harder to find is called The Night Train Murders. It's an awesome cult film directed by Aldo Lado.

A pair of psychotic hoodlums and an equally demented nymphomaniac woman terrorize two young girls on a train trip from Germany to Italy. Can Margaret and Lisa fend off the killers until their train reaches its destination?

Another one that is hard to find, but is awesome is called Christmas Evil. It also can be found under the title, You Better Watch Out!

The winter weather isn't the only thing that's frightful about this unconventional holiday offering about a toy maker whose obsession with Christmas spirals dangerously out of control. After enduring a traumatic childhood in which he learned there was no such thing as Santa Claus, Harry Stadling takes it upon himself to judge the "naughty" and the "nice." But instead of spreading cheer, he opts for fear.

Believe it or not, there is yet another cliche Christmas horror movie out there where a group of teenagers at a party find themselves being stalked by a maniacal killer in a Santa Claus costume. This one is called To All A Good Night. However, this one is directed by the one and only David Hess! For those of you lost on that one ring leader in the original The Last House on the Left.

It's Christmas break at the Calvin Finishing School for Girls, and the students are planning a big party while the president of the school is away. A group of boys show up and the fun begins, until mysterious killer starts bumping off couples one by one. The police show up and promise to keep everyone safe, but they prove ineffectual against the crazed psycho. Could the killings have anything to do with the girl who was killed in an initiation stunt at the school a few years earlier?

Somebody with very little Christmas spirit is killing anyone in a Santa suit one London holiday season, and Scotland Yard has to stop him before he makes his exploits an annual tradition.

This little diddy is called Don't Open Till Christmas. Gotta love a vicious maniac who relishes impaling, disfiguring and castrating his jolly victims.

Two words: Chopping Mall!

These bargains are to die for! High-tech robots with state-of-the-art firepower have been employed as night watchmen at the Park Plaza Mall. But when an errant bolt of lightning short-circuits the computer switchboard that controls the robots, the mechanical security men turn into rampaging "killbots." Meanwhile, four horny couples are checking out the mattresses after-hours. Little do they know they're about to go from bed to bath... and beyond!

One of the more recent Holiday horror films to come around is called Wind Chill!

This movie stars the amazing Emily Blunt. While driving home for Christmas break, two college students find their vehicle broken down on a deserted road where the souls of all who have perished there return to haunt them.

So, how many of you remember Jack Frost? or the sequel?

When his prison transport collides with a truck full of "genetic material," condemned serial killer Jack Frost (Scott MacDonald) is inexplicably transformed into a terrifying, murderous snowman. With a red plaid scarf, a carrot nose and a heart made out of coal, the icy madman sets his sights on a small rural town and goes on an old-fashioned killing spree. Shannon Elizabeth co-stars in this chilling horror flick directed by Michael Cooney.

Everyone has heard of Santa Claus, but what about Satan Claus?

On the night before Christmas, a serial killer dressed in a Santa Claus suit stalks the streets of New York looking for blood. It seems this madman is building the perfect Christmas tree and adorning it with parts of his victims. It's up to an actor, his police officer girlfriend and a voodoo woman to stop him.

What about Santa Claws?

Under normal conditions, a man in a jolly red suit can be delightful. But when the outfit belongs to a demented psycho who's convinced he's Santa Claus, it's absolutely frightful. Raven Quinn, a sexy B-movie scream queen whose marriage is crumbling, is already dreading the Christmas season. When her creepy next-door neighbor starts dishing out his own brand of holiday cheer, things only go south from there.

Get ready for some cheese with Feeders 2: Slay Bells!

Mean martians arrive on Christmas Eve to terrorize innocent earthlings. The heavily-armed residents of one small town (with a little help from Santa himself!) defend themselves as best they can; splatter-be-damned.

Here is one that came out ten years ago called The Christmas Season Massacre!

Tommy is a loser. He wears a pirate eye-patch, a Christmas gift he was given as a child. It is a symbol of the humiliation Tommy endured in high school. Tommy was the subject of so much torment from his classmates that he became a bloodthirsty maniac! Tommy disappeared, vowing to eventually slay all of his schoolyard tormentors. Over the years, he has slaughtered all but six of them. Now, these six former schoolmates unite to end Tommy's reign of terror. Will they put Tommy six feet under? Or will Tommy win by slicing and dicing the six remaining on his victim list?

Here is another ten year old Xmas horror flick called Nutcracker: An American Nightmare! This one stars David Hess!

Troubled John Gard (David Hess) decides to seek help from shrink Carlton Fairfax (Bill Bragg), who's caught up in his own maelstrom of personal and professional turmoil. After Carlton tests a controversial new therapy on John, both men end up spiraling into madness. Before long, Carlton comes face to face with the brutal tragedies of his past in this low-budget psychological horror film written and directed by Glen Grefe.

One Hell of a Christmas is a dark and action packed comedy that takes place in a modern city as well as in a fearful underworld. When Carlitos is released after doing 2 years of "hard time", he attempts to redeem himself and sets an example for his 5 year-old son. However, when a friend confronts him with a very dark and horrifying scam for some quick dough and good times, he declines, but never the less he soon finds himself entangled in a web of sex, drugs and Christmas carols.

Talk about one hell of a Christmas!

Last, but not least, is a new favorite in my top five favorite Christmas horror films is Dead End!

This one will make you laugh and scream! Dreading the drive he's made to his mother-in-law's house for Christmas for the past two decades, Frank (Ray Wise) takes a shortcut this year to save time. He'll wish he hadn't when he crosses paths with a strange woman who drifts through the forest on a killing spree; a driverless car transporting the bodies follows behind, and those who survive fall prey to insanity. Will Frank's detour turn into a hell on earth he may never be able to escape?

One of my favorite parts is when the dad, Frank, gets shot in the leg and he screams, "Holy shit! The bitch shot me in the leg!" and the mother calmly sits next to him and asks, "Is he hurt?" Classic!

Well, I hope you saw some old favorites on this list and some new films to add to your queue. I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season! This is A Ghouls Best Friend saying Merry Christmas to all and to all a good fright!

It's the Scariest Day of the Year

2011-11-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

Okay, we all knew this day was coming and tomorrow it will be in full swing, heck by midnight some places will start the madness! People running, camping outside, screaming, trampling, fighting, shoving, losing children and for what.... a sale? If you haven't caught on because you are not awake yet, this is what can happen, and according to years past, does happen on Black Friday!

So today I am going to give you some Black Friday survival tips!

1. KNOW WHAT YOU WANT!

There are so many times where people know what they want, but then they see a deal that says, "Spend $75 and get a $15 gift card". Unless you intended to go into a certain store and spend that much or close to that much money, you aren't really saving anything. Don't be pulled into something just because it sounds like a good deal.

2. CHECK AND COMPARE SALES ON-LINE!

So many stores are offering sales on electronics, as they do every year. What you may not know is sometimes you will go to buy a tv, for example, for what you think is an great deal, but in the end, it may only be $10 cheaper than the on-line price which also offers free shipping. So in the end you risked getting trampled, the time you spend in line, and even sleep just to save $10. This is not worth it unless you are going out for other items at the same store that really are door buster deals.

3. KEEP YOUR COOL!

Just because someone else near you is yelling, trying to pick a fight, or is driving aggressively doesn't mean you have to do the same. Keep calm and carry on. This is also great advice for your everyday life as well. Just saying... which leads me to my next tip...

4. DON'T DRIVE AGGRESSIVELY.

Believe it or not, there are actually people that have kids in their cars. It could be people traveling back home from Thanksgiving dinner with family the night before, a family going out to a restaurant for lunch, or even a person that is taking their children out for the Black Friday sales to try on clothing. Whatever the reason, keep in mind driving aggressively isn't just dangerous for you, but it's also dangerous for those around you. This is another tip that is good to practice everyday as well.

5. SHOP LOCAL!

There are so many awesome shops in your own backyard that are having awesome sales too! The great thing about these shops is that only the locals know about these sales and not the whole world so there will always be awesome items left for you to buy! In my neck of the woods there are shop all over Baltimore City and DC, but there are also great places like The Avenue in Hampden and Main Street in Ellicott City that have tons of amazing shops, cafes, places to eat, and usually have great deals at the beginning of every month too! If you haven't heard of first Fridays, you should! The first Friday of every month, shops in Ellicott City and on The Avenue have extended hours, drinks, food, and great deals! Buying local is a treat all year round, plus you know that buying local helps your community.

6. SHOP ON-LINE!

There are always great deals on-line, especially on Black Friday! You can find cheaper and even free shipping, even lower prices than on-line sites usually have to offer, and you can do this all from the convenience of your own home! You also are less likely to get trampled or get into a car accident!

Now that I have given you some awesome tips I am now going to keep with the theme of the last tip and tell you about my on-line specials!

Currently, you can save 30% off your entire purchase until 10pm tonight! The code for this is SANTACLAWS30. When this coupon goes away, the new one for Black Friday will become active!

This Black Friday Weekend at A Ghouls Best Friend, you can save 25% off your entire purchase with the code: BLACKFRIDAY2011. On top of this, every purchase comes with an awesome gift bag of goodies as well as a little card. The card will contain a discount code for one time use only that will expire December 31st, 2011. The code can be anywhere from 15 to 40% off your entire purchase! This Black Friday Weekend Special starts tonight at 10pm and ends Sunday, the 27th, at midnight.

Painted Doll

2011-11-08T12:32:00.000-08:00

Well it's time for another featured shop blog! This time I am giving a shameless plug to gal I work with at my "normal job" that gives me health insurance. She does an array of crafty things and her and I chatted a bit about this side of her. She is the shop owner of Painted Doll: A Shop of Misfit Things.

1. What kind of items do you make?
Oh, god, everything. Clothes, jewelry, corsets, bags. I have the attention span of a three year old when it comes to making stuff.

2. How long have you been crafting?

Since I was a kid (I got lots of, possibly wary, compliments from my kindergarten teacher on how well I used scissors, haha.)

3. What is your favorite type of crafting and why?

I really prefer sewing, but I got into jewelry-making as a way to vent some creative energy when I didn't have the time to get into a big sewing project.

4. What is your most favorite item in your shop and why?

SOOT SPRITES. I sell a lot of these at conventions, and they are just so much fun to make.

5. Are you working on any new items now that you'd like to share?

I'm going to be releasing a limited clothing collection, heavily rooted in a mix of goth/lolita/steampunk fashion in the next couple of months.

6. Are there different types of crafting that you would like to try and why?

I'd love to learn metalwork and chainmaille.

7. What advice would you give to someone who would like to try sewing with a sewing machine for the first time?

Basically, go slowly until you're comfortable with your machine's speed and capabilities. It's terrifying at first-- I was always afraid I'd sew straight through my finger, but once I realized that the fabric will go the way I tell it to, it became less terrifying, and now I sew like I drive-- pedal to the floor, baby.

8. Since you are local, what is your favorite place to hang out in Baltimore?

I actually really enjoy the shark level of the Aquarium. I'm a little obsessed.

9. What is your favorite John Waters film?

I, uh, don't have one. I am a terrible person, I know.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Primarily, the internet-- I spend a lot of time on imageboards and blogs, so I kind of absorb this great mash-up of stuff that would be really awesome to make or modify. Also, the entire steampunk culture is a fantastic source of inspiration.

How would you describe your process?

Well, I don't ever sketch anything, unless someone else needs a reference image in my costuming crew. I seriously go to the fabric store with some vague ideas and a theory about what fabric I want to use, and play around in there for HOURS. Then I come home, throw it all in a pile on the floor, and start cutting, pinning and draping until I have what I want. I make jewelry the same way-- I buy things because I think they're kind of awesome on their own, and when I get home, I bring out my entire bead stash and try to figure out what works well with the new thing.

Also, hot glue. Lots and lots of hot glue.

PGA Public Ghoul Announcement

2011-10-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted yet this month, so much to do, so little time. It is my favorite time of the year and this Ghoul is getting married to the Boil of her dreams, this Monday on Halloween in fact!

Once life returns back to normal you all will be getting some amazing posts from yours truly. Promise!

While you wait I have a special discount code for 20% off your entire purchase!
The code is BOILMEETSGHOUL
Use it at check out. There is a place under payments that you can click to enter this code!

Reading Rainbow Was Never This Killer

2011-09-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

Today, as many of you know, is the Blogger Zombie Walk! My contribution to this awesome walk is to talk about some amazing Zombie books that have come out over the past six years. Before I start overloading your mind with awesome Christmas gifts and books for your own person library, I would like to remind you that at the bottom of this post you will find a list of other blogs participating in this awesome Blogger Walk. Until we reach that bridge, make yourself comfortable, grab a tasty Sam Adam's Octoberfest, and check out what is in store at your local Barnes and Noble.

I am going to start with three of my most favorite things: Crafting, Cupcakes, and Zombies! There are so many awesome books, but the following are my favorites! I love crafting and being able to combine my love of crafts and horror is a plus and a half. That is why I was tickled when I can across Zombie Felties! This book gives you instructions on how to make 16 felt critters from Michael Jackson in Thriller to a Zombie Infant sucking on a pacifier. My favorite one to make is the Day of the Dead Feltie. Also, a fun little fact, the same lady that wrote this book also has one on how to make Steam Punk Felties.

My favorite Zombie related cupcake book is called, A Zombie Ate My Cupcake. This book has amazing recipes and decorating ideas that will knock your party guests dead! There are cupcakes that are bloodied hearts, ravens tearing open the icing to reveal a bloody inside, and even a T Virus Cupcake! I am dead serious!

Now, I know I can't be the only one that knows a small child that loves horror movies and Halloween. I was that kid. I was up to my neck in horror movies before I hit the double digits years, let alone my teen years. If you know a kid like this, then you and that special little boil or ghoul will love these books! One of my favorites is Pat the Zombie. This book is a parody of the classic children's book, Pat the Bunny. I included some pics of the inside. Enjoy!

A book series that has been getting a huge amount of success is The Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series. Well step aside, wimp and say hello to Diary of a Zombie Kid! Words cannot express how tickled I was to see this on a bookshelf.

For those of you that have children that are struggling with the alphabet, or for those of you that still can't remember your A B C's, check out Z is for Zombie! This book has amazing pictures and definitions that will make you laugh until you mess yourself.

For those you you that like fiction for more advanced readers, these next few titles are just for you. A few years ago a man named Seth Grahame-Smith reinvented a classic tale, as well as a few others by giving them a touch of horror. The first book he did this with is titled, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.

Soon after came Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters, as well as the sequel to the first book, Dawn of the Dreadfuls.

This has spawned a new craze of making several classic tales into horror filled tales! I mean really, who can resist Little Women with Werewolves!?!!

Another awesome book is called Zombie Vs Unicorns. This book is an anthology of Zombie and Unicorn stories. In my opinion, Zombies will always kick a Unicorns ass, I don't care it they have a weapon attached to their head or not!

Recently, there has been a graphic novel series that has turned into an amazing tv show. If you are as zombie crazy as I am, you already know that I am referring to The Walking Dead! I am not going to run my mouth about this one, the series sells itself as does the show. Check both out or you will forever miss out on all of it's glory.

For those of you that like more serious books about Zombies, for whatever reason, I have something for you too! Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Zombies is a funny, but factual book about zombies. Don't ask. All I can say is if you ever wanted to win a fight with someone over whether or not Jesus is a zombie, this book is your guiding light.

Another awesome book is Zombies: A Record of the Year of Infection. This book is a biologist's illustrated journal found in the aftermath of the attack, this pulse-pounding, suspenseful tale of zombie apocalypse follows the narrator as he flees from city to countryside and heads north to Canada, where he hopes the undead will be slowed by the colder climate. Encountering scattered humans and scores of the infected along the way, he fills his notebook with graphic drawings of the zombies and careful observations of their behavior, along with terrifying tales of survival. This frightening new contribution to the massively popular zombie resurgence will keep fans on the edge of their seats right up to the very end.

Okay, I can't make a post about Zombie books without bringing up Max Brooks. This man is responsible for World War Z and The Zombie Survival Guide Handbook. One is fiction, the other is humor, but both as bad ass!

Since writing these books, there are now college campuses that have a Zombie Survival Class you can take for college credit. The entire point of the class is to learn how to survive a zombie apocalypse if one ever happened. Brooks actually tours and holds seminars on how to do such a thing. Umm, how do I get this job? Please and thank you!

Have you ever had a song that you couldn't get out of your head? What about a Christmas Carol about zombies? If you are me you can answer yes to both of those questions Thanks to a little books called, It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Zombies!

Ohh yes, this book does exist! And let me tell you, these tunes are addictive. I know from personal experience!

Another great author is a fellow named Scott Kenemore! He is responsible for several Zombie related humor books! The four following books are by him:

There is also a book of Zombie love songs called, Every Zombie Eats Somebody Sometimes. I don't care if you hate love songs or Christmas Carols, if you love zombies, that is all that matters.

Does the Poet in you love Zombies? I recommend Zombie Haiku. Follow the tale a person that gets bitten and begins to turn. Haikus were never this awesome in school.

Are you addicted to sudoku? Check out Zombie Sudoku. Don't ask, just do it!

Ever wanted to speak Zombie? Check out How To Speak Zombie! This book comes with it's own mini sound board to help those of you that are more hands on learners. That that Rosetta Stone!

Are you the sentimental type? Do you like taking a stroll down memory lane? Then check out Zombie High Yearbook '64. This book has amazing detail, glossy pages, and is a steal for only $14.99.

If that's not good enough, check out a picture book called Zombie In Love. It will bring a tear you your eye, and infection to your system, and a smile to your face, and a zombie in your heart.

So boy or girl, toddler or grandma, skeptic or zombie enthusiast there is a Zombie book out there for you!

Now, as promised.... here are the other participants in today's Blogger Zombie Walk!
http://above-the-norm.blogspot.com Above the Norm: Bizarre Arizona
http://www.zombieseverywhere.org Zombies Everywhere
http://hollyshorrorland.blogspot.com Holly's Horrorland
http://littlegothichorrors.blogspot.com/ Little Gothic Horrors
http://www.anythinghorror.com Anything Horror
http://kaybeewrites.blogspot.com/ Katy Bennett Horror Writer and Poet
http://thisisbubbasplace.blogspot.com/ Bubba's Place
http://horrorsmorgasbord.blogspot.com Horror Smorgasbord
http://gnostalgia.wordpress.com/ Gnostalgia
http://petzoldspracticalprose.blogspot.com/ Monkey Man
http://leogodin.net/ Words and Music
http://redshoeschronicles.blogspot.com/ Red Shoes Chronicles http://thewolfseyes.blogspot.com/ The Wolf's Eyes
http://mydayinasentence.blogspot.com My Day in a Sentence
http://pixieshorrorgalore.blogspot.com Pixie's Horror Galore
http://strangestate.blogspot.com Strange State
http://halloweenut.blogspot.com The Misadventures of HalloweeNut
http://www.halloween-blues.com Halloween Blues
http://kweenytodd.blogspot.com Kweeny Todd
http://thecaliforniabloggingmassacre.blogspot.com The California Blogging Massacre
http://horror-shock.blogspot.com Horror Shock Lolipop
http://vanessa-morgan.blogspot.com Vanessa Morgan
http://improbablefrontiers.wordpress.com/ Improbable Frontiers
http://noreallyyoucaneatit.blogspot.com No Really, You Can Eat It
http://livingdeadgirlnicoleart.blogspot.com Art By Living Dead Girl Nicole
http://twogorychicks.blogspot.com Two Gory Chicks
http://www.dustbunnyinthewind.com A Dust Bunny in the Wind
http://aghoulsbestfriend.blogspot.com A Ghoul's Best Friend
http://zombiesaremagic.blogspot.com Zombies Are Magic
http://cherrynekostw.blogspot.com Cherry Neko Saves the World
http://www.lisafee.com Tall Tales
http://atthemansionofmadness.blogspot.com At the Mansion of Madness
http://www.thehauntedrose.blogspot.com The Haunted Rose
http://therottingzombie.blogspot.com The Rotting Zombie
http://halloweenoverkill.blogspot.com Halloween Overkill
http://viviennemoss.blogspot.com/ Out of the Shadows
http://keyholegallery.blogspot.com Creepy Glow Keyhole Galleryhttp://creepyglowbugg.blogspot.com Creepy Glowbugg
http://bifocalunivision.blogspot.com/ Bifocal Univision
http://haiku-koo-koo.blogspot.com/ Haiku-Koo-Koo</a>
http://sherrysoule.blogspot.com/ Sherry Soule
http://anchorsandroses.blogspot.com">Anchors and Roses
http://paranormalresearchersgroup.blogspot.com/ Paranormal Researchers Group
http://whispering-pines-history.blogspot.com/ Whispering Pines History
http://lovelymissmegs.blogspot.com Lovely Miss Megs
http://www.fishblogwash.blogspot.com/ Sean Thomas Fisher's Blogwash
http://www.riseandfight.net Rise and Fight
http://stumptownhorror.blogspot.com Stump Town Horror
http://loliclownshorrors.blogspot.com/ LoliClown's Little Blog of Horror
http://zombiescantlove.blogspot.com Zombies Can't Love
http://booksandbeyondreviews.blogspot.com Books and Beyond
http://www.thegravebandits.com/ The Grave Bandits
http://www.screaminggoregasm.blogspot.com/ Screaming Goregasms
http://lazydaisylife.blogspot.com Lazy Daisy Life
http://ickymonster.blogspot.com Icky Monster
http://www.prettyinfiction.com Pretty in Fiction
http://bonjourivyparker.blogspot.com/ Ivy's Closet
http://justineshalloween.blogspot.com Justine's Halloween
http://annie-walls-author.blogspot.com/ Annie Walls
http://thetimebi.blogspot.com/ Just Johnny
http://theautumnforestghosthunter.blogspot.com/ Ghost Hunting Theories

Pop Art Goes 3D

2011-09-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

I am a fan of many things. While John Waters maybe on top of that list, I also adore other things. For instance, I love pop art. I am a huge Warhol fan and I love reading about The factory, Brigid Berlin, Edie Sedgwick, and Billy Name. Recently I came across an amazing artist that specializes in 3D pop art. His pieces are amazing to say the least. He really takes pride in his work and pays careful attention to detail while not overdoing it. The artists name is Joshua Zaitz and he is the Etsy shop owner of Popsic Art. Joshua is one of the may talented people that I have met through The Etsy Massacre.

I recently chatted with Joshua and here is what I learned about him!

Some basic info:

My name is Joshua Zaitz and for a little over six years now I have been creating whimsical 3D pop art of musicians, celebrities, iconic images and famous places.

I am happily married to my wife Coleen. We live in New Jersey. When I'm not creating artwork I am a grant write for the Essex County Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs.

1. What kind of art do you make and sell on Etsy?

I create whimsical 3D pop art of musicians, celebrities, iconic images and famous places.

The artwork features vibrant colors and fun themes.

2. How long have you been creating these pieces?

A little over 6 years

3. Where do you get your inspiration from?

I love colorful pop artwork. I get my inspiration from products you can find everywhere (Dunkin Donuts, Coca-Cola). I'm also a huge movie and music fan. I love creating artwork of some of my favorite musicians and movies. I guess you can say I draw my inspiration from everything pop culture.

4. How would you describe your process?

Each piece of art offers viewers a unique 3-D experience.

Hand-cut pieces are glued layer by layer to the background picture.

Since every piece of artwork I create is hand-cut, constructed and embellished differently, collectors of my artwork each receive a unique piece of art.

5. What is your favorite piece currently for sale in your shop and why?

It's so, so hard to choose. Each piece I like in it's own, unique way. But here are some of my current favorites:

Twilight Zone

Frankenberry

Jerry Garcia

6. Are you working on anything new that you would like to share?

Continuing on my love of everything pop culture -- and my new found love for breakfast cereals -- I've recently started to created 3D pop art pieces based on breakfast cereal mascots. So far I've completed Frankenberry, Boo Berry and Count Chocula.

Check out this section in his shop!

I hope to have some others completed soon. Certainly Captain Crunch would be on the top of my list.

7. What advice would you give to a new seller on Etsy?

Etsy is a fantastic market place for selling artwork. As of now, I honestly feel Etsy is the best option for handmade selling on the internet. Sure the site has its pros and cons -- as do most things in life -- but new sellers should just hang in there. It took my months to make my first sale.

8. Do you do custom work? Like if someone were to ask for a piece featuring an image of Divine from Pink Flamingos? hint hint.... ;)

One of my favorite things to create is custom artwork. I adore making 3D pop artwork of newlyweds, couples and families.
Check out this section in his shop!

9. Since you are apart of the Etsy Massacre Team, what is your favorite horror movie?

There are so many horror movies I love. But off the top of my head some of my favorites are the original A Nightmare on Elm Street, Human Centipede, Hostel, and Dawn of the Dead (2004). I'm sure I'm forgetting a few. If I had to choose an absolut favorite I guess I'd have to go with The Shining.

Folks can also find me and my artwork on the following websites:

Website: www.PopsicArt.com
Blog: popsicart.blogspot.com/
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/popsic.art

Coming Soon!

2011-09-19T15:47:00.000-07:00

September 30th I will be participating in a Zombie Blogger Walk. I will have at least one Zombie related blog post as well as links to other blogs featured in the Zombie Blogger Walk as well!

These are godless times, I'll drink to that!

2011-08-29T17:53:00.000-07:00

Imagine living in fear. Fear of being made fun of, fear of making friends, fear of your mother, and even fear of yourself and what you are capable of doing. What would you do if even the slightest agitation made your mind react with a defense mechanism you didn't fully understand? What if your mind could break glass, slam doors, or even kill people? Would you let yourself live in this fear or would you embrace the destructiveness from within?

In 1976, one of many films based on a Stephen King novel came to life. This film is called Carrie. It tells the story of a high school misfit that is constantly tortured by her peers and is relentlessly harassed by her religious mother. One day, Carrie is picked on by a group of girls in the locker room, who are later punished and a few are even banned from going to the prom.

They decide to get even on Carrie and give her a prom that she will never forget.

Unfortunately, these bitter pranksters have no idea that Carrie has recently discovered she has telekinetic abilities. These powers help her humiliate and torture her peers, teachers, and mother.

This film is absolutely phenomenal and is still an extremely popular film today. The film only cost $1.8 million to make and it grossed $33.8 at the box office.

Another fun fact about this film that is also a Star Wars fun fact as well is that George Lucas and Brian De Palma held a joint audition for Carrie and Star Wars. There is a long-standing rumor that originally, Sissy Spacek was cast as Princess Leia, and Carrie Fisher as Carrie, but when Fisher refused to appear in nude scenes and Spacek was willing to do them, they switched parts. However, Fisher refuted this story in a Premiere magazine article called "The Force Wasn't With Them," about actors who auditioned unsuccessfully for Star Wars. That article quoted Fisher as saying, "Not only do I love being nude, I would've been nude then... But anyway, it's total bullshit that Fisher refused to play Carrie."

Now to the good stuff! As a celebration of Carrie being made 35 years, I am sharing a discount code with everyone that cane be used today, tomorrow, and Wednesday only! The code is to save 35% off your entire purchase excluding shipping! The code is: CARRIE35 This code expires on August 31 at 11:59pm so use it while you can!!!!!!

Amusement

2011-08-28T07:17:00.000-07:00

Recently I watched a horror movie called Amusement. This movie is awesome!

This movie sounded very typical and cliche, but I thought I would give it a chance anyway. After all, I will watch any horror movie at least once... the good, the bad, the budgetly low cult.

Amusement tells the story of three girls: Tabitha, Lisa, and Shelby. They were all friends in school and used to pick on a boy that had very strange habits. Years later the girls are each collected by this mentally disturbed, now full grown man for the sake of revenge and torture.

If you're anything like me you are thinking of this sounds like a Valentine rip off mixed with every serial killer movie that involved multiple kidnappings. Well, you are part right. It does have those similar elements, but so much more. This movie is dark and demented.

When I started watching this film, I was like alright, let's just get this over with. The first 20 minutes were indeed cliche, with the clown costume and baby sitter being stalked by a crazy person, but I promise it gets better... you just need the set up. Before you know it there is blood, crazy torture methods, a huge house, and a psycho killer with the catch phrase, "It's funny, right?"

I don't want to give too much away, but it's definitely a movie to check out on a dark night with all the lights out and some popcorn with a friend.

The Dame of the Dead

2011-08-23T11:37:00.000-07:00

I am always on the lookout for new sellers on Etsy, especially ones with darker themes. I love shops filled with skeletons, blood, zombies, severed body parts, bats, mummies, spiders, and anything else your twisted little minds may find creepy. Recently, a lady joined one of my Etsy Teams, The Etsy Massacre! She is the single mother of two that resides in sunny California! By day she is filing away at a law firm and by night she is the shop owner of The Dame of the Dead! I asked her a few questions and I learned a lot about this awesome seller!

1. What sorts of items do you make and sell?

I have tried to become more diverse with my items. I started out making small clay pieces, and then expanded to wood and glass pendants, dolls, coffins and now paper Mache rings and masks.

2. How long have you been crafting?

I actually didn’t start out crafting until later in my life. I have always been an artist from the time I was a very young girl, but often focused on drawing with pencil.

Crafting came later after I saw 15 years go by and my art with it. Slowly but surely I would learn new things until I am where I am at now. I would say I have been crafting as a small business/hobby for just over a year now.

Lucy

3. Where do you get your inspiration from?

There is nothing I can pin-point. Things have just always sort of popped in my head. I have been trying to challenge myself, making my creations more realistic, more detailed, so I look through medical photography online, or through books. I have been taking photos of items I see around the city or take in things as I go. I have been using fantasy/horror movies as new inspiration as well as of recent.

Book of Shadows

4. What is your most favorite item in your shop? And why? please include a link so I can share it.

Probably my Siamese twin skulls, though it’s hard because I have adoration for many of my items. Each has a little piece of me with them, a little joy infused into each item. It’s hard to see them go. Those little guys almost didn’t make it, after a few mishaps, so they are survivors. and there is something innocent about them I like.

5. Are there any new projects that you are working on that you would like to share?

Always working on new projects. I have a Jeckyl and Hyde idea with clay I am thinking about, many more paper Mache rings and also another coffin

One of her coffins

6. What is your favorite medium/material to work with? paint, resin, fabric, feathers?

I like it all, but I have a soft spot for rhinestones which is funny considering the items I have in my shop. I am willing to try them all though and they have all worked well for me

Pie Necklace made with Heart... I mean love

7. Where would you like to see yourself in 5 years from now?

Happy, still crafting and hopefully a little niche made for myself in the art world

Beatrix

8. What is your favorite horror movie?

Way too many. I am not into gore horror, for the most part. I like the suspense types. A horror movie that can terrify you without the blood. If I had to name a few it would be “Let the Right One In”(original) “Tale of Two Sisters”, “Exorcist” and with tads of gore “Ginger Snaps”

Ouija Board Necklace

9. What advice would you give to a new Etsy seller?

Don’t give up. NETWORK NETWORK AND NETWORK. Create treasuries, get on teams. It’s a lot of work and it will not happen overnight, but if your product is good and you do these things, you will get noticed.

If you would like to see more items by The Dame of the Dead please check out her shop! She also has a Facebook Page loaded with lots of awesome info!

The Bell Punch

2011-08-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

Okay Boils and Ghouls, it's quiz time! What do you get when you cross athleticism, fearlessness, and a beautiful woman? If you said a ninja cheerleader then you need to lay off the B Rate horror movies! However, if you said one hell of a stunt woman then you are correct and if you said Zoe Bell then you pass with flying colors! Today I am going to gab about this kick ass lady!

Zoe Bell and yes she is really that HOT!

Zoe Bell has been in dozens of films and even a few well known television shows. One of her first gigs was being the stunt double to Lucy Lawless on the show Xena: Warrior Princess. She has also done work on several of Quentin Tarantino's films, most notably, Death Proof where she played herself.

On the set of Xena

I have always been fascinated by stunt men and women, especially Zoe Bell and Kane Hodder, so I thought I wanted take the time to learn more about one of them for the time being (because if you think there won't be a post about Kane Hodder, especially after his bio comes out you got another thing coming!). Anyways, back to Zoe!

Zoe Bell was born November 17, 1978 in New Zealand. Her parents are Tish and Andrew Bell, both are in the medical field. Her father is a doctor and her mother is a nurse (Talk about handy!). She hass a younger brother named Jake.When she was very young she began participating in gymnastics. When she reached the age of 15 her interests in physical activities broadened. She began to study Taekwon-Do, scuba diving, high diving, dance, and track and field sports.

On the hood of the Dodge Charger

In 1992, her father was working at a hospital treating a stuntman that was injured on the set of a local soap opera. Her father saw this as an opportunity and arranged to Zoe to call the coordinators for the show and thus landing her first job as a stunt woman. Her first stunt was to jump from a moving car. She did so well that she landed a regular job with this soap opera until 1995 when she picked up a role on Xena: Warrior Princess. She also did work on the show Hercules: The Legendary Journeys while working on Xena. However, some of the roles she became most well known for didn't come around until 2003 when she was hired as a stunt woman in Kill Bill Volume 1 and 2. These were her first roles in a Tarantino film. She started out being hired as Uma Thurman's "crash and smash double", but soon after the crew saw what she was capable of they also hired her for the film's fight scenes. Her work in these two particular films earned her nominations at the Taurus World Stunt Awards for Best Overall Stunt by a Woman", "Best Fight", and "Best High Work".

On the Set of Kill Bill with Uma Thurman

Now, with all stunt people there is a high chance of injury. Unfortunately, Zoe has been injured performing stunts in the past. While she was filming the last bits of Kill Bill Volume 2 she was doing a stunt for Uma Thurman's character where she is thrown backwards by the force of being shot by a gun. Zoe suffered injuries to her ribs and the ligaments in her wrists. She ended up needing surgery and had to spend a few months recovering.

Quentin Tarantino and Zoe

Her most well known role in a Tarantino film was playing herself in Death Proof. In this film her biggest moment in the lime light is what made this film! Her main scene involves her on the hood of a 1970 Dodge Charger while the car is being driven at highway speeds as Kurt Russel's character repeatedly hits the car with his own. Naturally, Zoe did all of her own stunts in this film. If you have not seen this film, you must!

The Dodge Charger Scene

In more recent years, Zoe has been involved in a lot more films playing roles and not just doing stunts. One of my favorites is the film Whip It!

On the set of Whip It

In this film Zoe plays a team member on a roller derby team with the derby name, Bloody Holly! This is a kick ass movie too!

Getting a bruise foe a scene in Whip It

If you want to know about more films that Zoe Bell has been in, check out her IMDB Profile and if you live in the Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania area, she will be at the Horrorfind Weekend this year! and Yes! I already have my tickets!!!!!

Meet MrHanz

2011-08-07T16:02:00.000-07:00

For the most part, when I recommend Etsy shops they are usually shops that are geared towards those of the female persuasion. This time I am sharing a shop that carries items for both men and women! So take a seat and join me in getting to know MrHanz!

About Me :
Hi, my name is Han. I studied and lived in California before, but now I spend more time in Jakarta as I'm busy with "mrhanz" and also just starting up an event staffing business.
I live here with my family and my two dogs. Love traveling when I have the time off.

1. What types of products do you make?
I make handmade leather goods such as wallets, key chains, belts, cell phone cases, passport holders, belts, watch straps, and etc.

2. How long have you been making these items and how did you get your start?
It all started from a little hobby of mine in 1997. I love watches and I like to wear different straps for different occasions. The best thing about straps is that you can give your old watch a new style just by changing the strap. I've only been selling professionally since last year but the sales has been picking up. Now mrhanz has expanded from strap products to other accessories.

3. What made you decide to use leather versus another type of material?
I personally prefer to wear leather than other materials. It's more durable and will stand up to much more wear and tear. By using various leather materials (calf, buffalo, python, lizard, crocodile), we'd be able to present our customers with unique products.

4. What is your favorite item that you have made? and why? (please include a pic or a link to a pic with it if you have one)
It's hard to pick just one, so I'll just have choose these 2 items, if I may. The first one is this watch's strap made of crocodile hide. The one on the far left.

The second one is this slim wallet, very compact. I can just put this wallet in back pocket and ready to go. Favorite wallet

These 2 items are the ones I frequently wear.

5. I noticed that you have some items that are in pink and purple colors, do you think you might try to make larger items such as clutches or small purses in the future?
Yes, I might expand my products to those areas as well as ipad case in the future.

6. Do you do custom orders?
I do custom orders for watch straps.

7. Where would you like to see your business in 5 years from now? (whether it be with more items, targeting a new demographic, etc)
I've done corporate gifts for local businesses here in Jakarta. I'm planning to target international businesses in the near future.

8. Where do you get your inspiration from when you are designing your items from what colors you use to style of your wallets, for instance?
From life and the people around me. Take the slim compact wallet as an example, I have this friend who came to me and complained that he hated carrying his bulky wallet. He just wanted something really simple and slim.
As for colors, I try to use as many colors as possible because I feel that everyone's choice of favorite color is not always the same. What works for me might not works for you.

9. What advice would you give to a person getting into making handmade accessories?
Just don't give up. It's tough in the beginning, but it'll get better.

If you would like to know more about MrHanz, other items, colors, prices, custom orders, or anything else check out his Etsy Shop and his Facebook Page!

Mineral Love

2011-08-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

In case you were wondering, I am a girl. I know... shocking, right. Anyways, as a girl I like to wear make up. I wear it a lot. There are a few things I look for when I am shopping for cosmetics. I like make up that is good quality, brands with an excellent selections of colors, and products that are not tested on animals and are vegan friendly. On Etsy there is an awesome lady that sells products that hits every bullet on my check list and she is from Baltimore no less! I had a little chat with her and I learned a lot about her and her shop. So take a minute and read all about Mineral love!

Hi everyone! My name is Tricia, and I'm the owner and creator of Mineral Love cosmetics. I have a wonderful family, boyfriend and 4 fur-babies (3 dogs and a cat.) I was born in New York, but my mother moved back to Baltimore when I was a baby, so I consider myself a Charm City girl all the way!

1. How long have you been making vegan cosmetics?

I have been making vegan cosmetics for years and started my Etsy shop in 2009.

2. Apart from your items being vegan, what other aspects of your shop attract buyers?

My line is all about fun, easy to wear products. My customers are from a wide variety of backgrounds and ages (from pre-teens to women in their 90's.) There is something for everyone!

I also love connecting with people from all around the world; in fact I recently found out that one of my customers and I share the same birthday. How cool is that?!

3. I noticed that you donate money to an animal rescue. Tell me more about that ...

Growing up, my family always had pets. My mom and I had cats, my grandparents had two dogs, and my aunt and uncle had a plethora of animals throughout the years. My aunt was a mail carrier, and my uncle worked on the railroad, so they always enountered stray animals that (more often than not) needed vet care, a good bath, and a happy home. I saw that kindness to animals at an early age, and I will forever carry that with me.

Pets provide so much more than companionship; they reduce the negative side-effects of stress, their care is linked to cognitive development and high self-esteem in children, and they improve overall social interactions and relationships.

Animals do so much for us, and I knew when I started my line that I wanted to give back. It took me some time to decide which non-profit organization I wanted to donate to, but then my friend told me about her sisters rescue, Charm City Animal Rescue, (at that time) a new non-profit that could certainly benefit from the donations. I set up with her at BARCStoberfest in Patterson Park this past October, and would love to do so again this year. I continue to donate $2 from every full-size product sold on my Etsy shop to CCAR. For more information about the organization, you can find them here- www.facebook.com/charmcityanimalrescue

4. Apart from making cosmetics, do you have any other crafty hobbies?

I do! I love to make collages, and the occasional hair clip/ring/assorted craft project that hits me all of a sudden and I'll have to stop everything I'm doing and dive in. I get inspired at odd times, and I have to admit I've gotten out of bed just to make something that I thought of randomly.

5. What do you like to do in your free time?

I play bass guitar, and a few friends and I had our first show in May in Fells Point. I've always played some sort of instrument, and I was part of the Vocal Music magnet at my high school. It's not something that I've pursued professionally, but music will always be a part of my life... and you never know where life may lead you!

I'm a total nerd; I also love to do crossword puzzles and play word games (I'm currently obsessed with Boggle, and can't resist a good word jumble.) I'm a fan of City Paper, and there's a stand right outside of my postoffice, so when I drop off my orders I'll pick one up. I also try to take time to "unplug" and shut of the computer, turn off the tv, and get lost in a good book.

6. Apart from your own make up, is there any brand out there that you are addicted to?
I can't say that there is another brand that I'm addicted to (besides my own.) I'm addicted to creating! I have to say though, I love the packaging of Benefit cosmetics; their retro branding is adorable.

7. How do you come up with names for your cosmetics?

From a variety of places! Most often I'll make the color and then see what name strikes me. Sometimes I don't even know where the ideas come from. I'll also consult a thesaurus from time-to-time if I'm stumped. Some of the eyeshadows I have were custom requests; for example, Angie (www.etsy.com/listing/32601446/angie-full-size-eyeshadow) was created for one of my customers named Angie that wanted me to make her an eyeshadow to match her favorite lip gloss. I love making custom colors; it's always my favorite thing on my 'to-do' list.

8. Where would you like to be 5 years from now?

Happy, healthy, and have my own brick and mortar shop in one of our historic neighborhoods where I can feature work from local artists and crafters.

9. Since you are from Baltimore, I must ask, what is your favorite place to go and why?

The American Visionary Art Museum, hands down. When I feel overwhelmed or stressed out, I go to AVAM and all of my anxiety seems to melt away. It's one of my favorite museums in the states, tied with the Salvador Dali museum in St. Petersburg, FL. I had the pleasure of going about 7 years ago, and it took my breath away. I'm a huge Dali fan; in fact, I'd pull my mom's Dali books off of her bookshelf when I was a little kid, and just stare at the art for hours.

10. What is your favorite John Waters film?

Ooo that's a tough one! Can I cop-out and say I love them all?!

If I have to choose one, Cry Baby will always have a place in my heart. <3

11. If you could give any advice to a new Etsy seller, what would it be?

Don't give up! Even if it's intimidating, even if sales are slow (or non-existent;) don't doubt yourself. Immerse yourself. Read as much as you possibly can about having an Etsy shop (there are TONS of resources out there, including the Seller Handbook on Etsy.) Experiment and choose which ones work best for you.

Most importantly, be yourself! The rest will fall into place.
♥

If you would like to know more about Tricia and her killer cosmetics, check out her shop Mineral Love, her Facebook Fan Page, or follow her on Twitter!

Born to Hang

2011-07-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

Recently I was surfing Etsy looking at all of the lovely art that people have to offer and I can across an amazing shop filled with hand made, polymer clay busts. These busts are absolutely amazing! Her name is Ashley Rose and her shop is Born to Hang. I talked to the shop owner and she was kind enough to be my newest featured shop interviewee. So sit back and check out this talented new artist!

My name is Ashley Rose Strobelt. I’m 26 years old from San Juan Capistrano California. I have a partner of 6 years and we have a dog together named Riley. He is our mute little child.

Before I found my interest in sculpting, I was working full time as a back office manager / registered dental assistant and going to school to pursue my passion for dentistry. At the time, I believe I was burning the candle at both ends and I had a complete physical collapse. It put me in the hospital. I have been taking a break to focus on myself including my health for a year and a half.

The Artist

How did you get your start in making busts and other items with clay and how long have you been doing this?

November of 2010 I joined my friends to a local art and craft fair called Patchwork. This was my first art fair and I was overwhelmed by the talented vendors and their work. One artist stood out to me, Shing Yin Khor created these beautiful, fun sculptures of monsters. She blew my mind and inspired me to try sculpting December 2010. I finished a rather large octopus. After a short break, I began to play around with wall mounted caricatures May 2011.

Nowhere Fast Crow Skull with Roses Keepsake Jewelry Box

Freddy Krueger

2. Is working with clay something that came naturally for you or did you have to work at it and learn different and new techniques for sculpting?

I was surprised how quickly I took to sculpting. Because of my physical ailments, I started sculpting laying in bed. It began to be a type of therapy. Teaching myself, I have learned certain things the hard way but I enjoy every aspect of the learning process. I hope to take some classes in the future.

Hold the World at Bay

3. Where do you get your inspiration from?

Anatomy art is my favorite. Perhaps my background in the health field contributes to that. I also find inspiration from movies, poetry and the relationships in my life.

Put a Bird on It

4. How would you describe your creative process?

When an idea enters my head, I look at similar images that might refine my initial idea. Once I start, I’m excited to see where my imagination takes me.

Frida Kahlo

5. Do you have a favorite item in your shop that you are particularly proud of either because it was a challenge or because of how it turned out? What is it and why? if you could include a link to it, I will post a pic of it with this question.

Edward Scissorhands is a memorable piece for me. I was very intimidated to attempt his scars, hair and facial features. I was actually pleased with how he turned out

Edwards Scissorhands

6. Are you working on anything new that you like to share with us?

I am just starting my own original artwork. A step away from the familiar caricatures. I am currently working on an anatomy series and larger busts that I am really excited about.

Meet Ana, the newest creation!

7. Do you do custom orders like if someone were to want a John Waters or Beetle Juice bust for instance... hint hint.

Most of my orders are from word of mouth, but for those in the internet world who are curious, all you have to do is email me your idea, or create an Etsy account and there is a link on my shop page entitled “custom order”. I welcome very specific details wanted in a custom order. It makes it more fun!

Eddie Izzard "Cake of Death"

8.Where would you like to be in 10 years?

With my new found passion for art, I am setting both short and long term goals. My first goal is to be a vendor at Patchwork Art and Craft Fair. Then I would love to showcase a piece at the Sea No Evil Art Show Benefit for Sea Shepard. And I hope to one day have an art show and someones gallery.

Octopus Necklace

9. What advice would you give a new seller on Etsy?

I am actually a new seller on Etsy! As far as advice goes, don’t be intimidated! Give thought to your shop name. It’s a great way to show case your work and very easy for buyers to use!

Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen

Born To Hang Facebook page is under construction. Keep an eye on Ashley Rose's Etsy shop for details on a future Giveaway!

A Ghouls Rant

2011-07-06T14:13:00.000-07:00

Usually I don't like to use the internet as my own personal soap box. I like to use social networking sites to promote my shop and friends and as a way to make people laugh. I like to introduce people to new ideas and events that they may not have heard about. However, today I am going to spend a few minutes just writing down some thoughts that I have and would like to share.

Recently, everyone has been outraged by the Casey Anthony Verdict. Yes, this does suck and people do have the right to get angry about the outcome and speak their minds about this. I personally think that is ridiculous that we live in a world where people who do such terrible things to children, whether it be murder, rape, or assault get off the hook so much easier than someone that sells drugs. I remember taking a family law class and hearing that 1 in 5 people convicted of child molestation actually serve time in jail and most are put on probation. Whereas, you can do jail time, have a suspended driver's license, and be on probation for just having weed. It's insane! Heck, there was even a case in Canada where a man (Guy Turcotte) was convicted of killing his two children by repeatedly stabbing them (46 times total) and he didn't serve any time! They said "vengeance is not the answer". Seriously?!?!?!?!?!!!! That is the reasoning!?!!!!!!

When it comes down to it, I like that people give a crap about the "bad" going on around them, but what I really want is for people to give a crap every day, not just when a major trial has an end like the Casey Anthony trial did. I think people should be pissed about gay rights! I think people should speak up more for harsher consequences for child molesters. I think people should voice their opinions on illegal immigrants and the education and "free money" they are given for health care.

In an effort to keep this rant short, I will just say this last bit: People need to fight for their rights and stay in the loop on current events, because if you're not on top of things you will get walked all over and maybe even stabbed with no guarantee that your killer will have a sentence to fit the crime.

King of the Bubble

2011-06-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

I just heard about the craziest thing! There is a competition in Brussels called King of the Bubble. In this competition people are in a large, deep pool and blow ring shaped bubbles. Sounds kind of lame, but it isn't!

First off, the pool is 100 feet deep! Suck on that for a minute! Competitors get into the water and using their mouths, attempt to make ring shaped bubbles, one after the other that go all the way to the surface. Secondly, these bubble makin folk are only equipped with their goggles, bathing suits, and their own set of lungs. There is a person with an oxygen tank near by that gives them more air when needed or in case anything goes wrong.

The way you win this contest is to be the person with the best bubbles, duh! They are judged on their size, shape, how perfect the rings are, and how many bubbles they can do in one breath. The contestants do so using a technique that is similar to that of blowing smoke rings.

This year the competition had 35 entries, but it all came down to one winner, 31 year old Francine Kreiss from Hyeres, France. To hell with Lord of the Dance! It's all about King of the Bubbles in my book, or in this case, Queen of the Bubbles!

Dolly Dearest

2011-06-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

Rudigo

I am sure many of you out there have been exposed to manga and anime at one point or another. I am personally not into it, though I must say, some of the images can be aesthetically pleasing, particularly the eyes.

Beau and Betty

A man named Gary Crozier from New Castle has began making a name for himself using inspiration from manga and anime art as well as Blythe toys, wide eyed dolls, and European horror films.

Adam

What this man does is he takes a portrait of a person and alters it so that the person looks like a doll. His main change is to the eyes so that they look large, bright, striking, and very doll like. When the portrait is done the figure looks like a photograph/painting of a doll.

Siren 9

For anyone interested this is his site and yes, he does do group photos as well!

The Marsdens

I Want to Swim with da Bears!

2011-06-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

So I learned something new today that has me itching to go to Canada. There is a place called the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat that is located in Ontario that allows visitors to swim with the polar bears! Before you get your knickers in a knot, it's not dangerous. The pool is designed so that a thick wall of plexiglas separates the bears from the swimmers.

Even though the habitat is open year round, the option to swim with the bears is only available during the summer. Both kids and adults are welcome to partake in the fun! Unfortunately, the habitat is closed for the 2011 summer season, but will opened back up soon! Man, I really want to swim with the Bears!

Cosmik Souls

2011-06-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

Okay Boils and Ghouls, I have another seller I would like you to meet. Her name is Joan and I met her through an Etsy Team I am in. She has some very unique items in her shop that deserve attention! Many of her items are accessories that are handmade with a vintage feel. Most of them look more like pieces of art than something you would wear on a special occasion. I recently began talking with Joan and I learned a bit about her. The following are some questions I asked her as well some pictures of items that are currently for sale in her shop, cosmiksouls.

Here is some basic info about the owner of cosmiksouls:

My name is Joan M Kelly and I live in Eastern Long Island NY. I grew up on LI and been there all my life and love it. I adore life by the beach and could not survive without a beach community ... at least I don't think ;) I have been married for 25 years to my soulmate and have a lovey daughter with a heart of gold who will be a college graduate in Entetainment and Event Management soon. She helps me with many administrative and event tasks for my biz as does the hubby as he is the business minded one and has been in the corporate world his entire professional career now owning his own biz in the financial field. I am all artist having a background in classical ballet, a degree in fashion, and a background in altered couture as well as teaching, exhibiting and selling at art leagues and venues in LI. I am returning to my fashion design roots after 21 years of being full time mom and corporate wife and am finding it all to come back so naturally as I began creating from the time I was very young and remained creative throughout the years bringing many art projects and programs to the local school district. Too boot, I also returned to dance 5 years ago. This time my genre is Ballroom and I have competed and showcased often. Guess this all leaves you wondering what my age ?;) I turned 50 this year, but don't look or behave it and often time I being mistaken for much younger because of my sense of style, fitness and zest for life including my new couture design biz.

Vintage Inspired Rococo Peacock Feather Choker With Vintage Brooches and Rhinestones

1.How long have you been jewelry and accessories?

I worked in Jewelry and Accessories as part of my fashion training in college; really on purpose because I have always had such a deep love of frilly adornments, creating many for myself since I was a child and wearing them about and people loving them. I think I always knew I would end up back here ... with my new brand. Cosmik Souls began the same way. I began creating to deal with the grief I felt upon my dad's passing a year and a half ago. As I wore it about town I got stopped everywhere and asked about who the designer was and how they could own a piece, hence a tribute line to my dad was born His name was Cosmos, hence Cosmik Souls.

Vintage Inspired Marylin Monroe Pendant With Glass Pearls and Tulle Bow

2. Apart from crafting, do you have another job?

This Cosmik venture has become a full time thing for me as I sell on consignment, FaceBook, Etsy and locally and have a couture one of a kind business model. I also work with talent agencies, photographers and models on collaborative assignments. I do all of my own design, crafting, photo, marketing and shipping as well. My studio is in my home so it allows for me to be home for my family and dogs, including a rescue puppy.

Rococo Lace Choker with Feathers and Vintage Jewels

3. Where do you get your inspiration from?

First of have to give kudos to my dad for a lifetime of creative and humanitarian inspiration. He was incredibly talented all though art was a hobby for him and very was generous to those in need. I feel as if my dad is working along side me on this as I feel his presence always. I also work with 6 charities with my brand, as he taught me well. My inspiration is so intrinsic to my being that things just come to me on recall as I design. My vintage inspiration comes from a love of history including family history back to my roots. Old family photos are priceless and I adore the family mix I am comprised of. Half homeland of Greece as I am second generation American on my dad's side ... and half heartland as my mom's family were original settlers in the Midwest. Can't beat that combo of inspiration ;)

Purple Hearts And Flower Romantic Charm Cuff

4. What is your most favorite item in your shop and why?

It is hard to pick a favorite item in my shop as I love it all but I am known for my lace and feathered chokers and cuffs. MY Baroque Bridal Choker has been a Cosmik Souls fave and I love it for it's soft, elegant yet sexy statement and it's versatility to be worn and treasured as a heirloom piece long after the nuptials. From engagement party to wedding day ... to a great honeymoon bu dour beauty to wow the new hubby ... also rocks with a great pair of jeans !!!

Vintage Inspired Baroque Lace Bridal Choker With Rosettes,Cameo,Ribbon and Bleached Peacock Feathers

5. How would you describe your creative process?

My creative process begins with an inspiration that begins to play out in my minds eye. Then I begin to lay it all out and add and subtract what looks and feels right. I feel as if my pieces sort of speak to me guiding me where to go. Nothing is complete until my heart and soul tell me so.

Red Resin Rose On Brass Filigree Charm Necklace

6. Where would you like to be in ten years?

In ten years I hope to have Cosmik Souls recognized as an established upscale haute couture brand and a go to brand for truly special pieces. The sky is the limit really and I believe it is heading where it belongs.

Pearl Choker With Fun Skull

7. What advice would you give to a new Etsy Seller?

For any new Etsy seller my advise would be to realize that we all started at the beginning and had so much to learn ... it's not just you ... I am still learning everyday. Also to join the Etsy Teams and community ... I have made the most awesome friends there and learned so much about how to use the Etsy site from them. We also all help validate each other as artisans. It's a great site ... be patient and your hard work will pay off.

Vintage Inspired Steampunk Skull Cameo Cocktail Ring

If you are interested in any of the items you saw or heard about, please check out Cosmik Souls. Also feel free to check out Joan's other sites, which include Facebook, Twitter, and Sense of Fashion.

Exciting news!

2011-06-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

This Ghoul has some exciting news!I have kept this to myself for a few weeks, and only a few people were aware of what I am about to reveal!

Here it goes! A few weeks ago I had a rather large order for a lady in Australia. She ordered many of my skeleton hand accessories and a few necklaces as well, along with some hair clips. I didn't second guess why this lady was ordering so much, I just thought she might be buying these items to resell in a shop down under. However, curiosity got the best of me and I sent said lady an e-mail asking her why the large order. Apparently the lady has a clothing line that she is kicking off and wanted to have her models wear my accessories that she purchased and then give them to her models as payment.

I was in shock.

I have kept in contact with this fashionista and as soon as the show is said and done, I will be getting pictures of her models wearing my items. I am very excited about this and I can't wait until I see the pictures. Hopefully, I will also be able to chat with the designer and ask her some questions as I do in my featured shop posts. So keep an eye out for that post! I am not 100% sure when her show will be, but rest assured, I will let everyone know when I have pictures! Okay, I am done being giddy and bragging! At least for the time being.

New Listings for June

2011-06-12T16:03:00.000-07:00

This month I have been a busy ghoul! I have been hard at work making new items, applying for events, celebrating birthdays, and even looking at houses with my fiance! It's been an exciting month so far and it's not even half way over! Today I was able to put up some new necklaces! They all feature movies from the 80's and 90's and there are a bunch of John Waters themed necklaces too! So check them out while they are still around!

Christian Slater as Happy Harry Hard-On in Pump Up the Volume

Winona Ryder and Christian Slater in Heathers

Park Posie as Mary in Party Girl

Mark from Empire Records

Nancy from The Craft

There are many more new items to come, so be on the lookout!

I wanna be a scream queen!

2011-06-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

Working in a bookstore has so many ups and downs. There are good books and there are bad books. There is the employee discount and then there are the paper cuts. It can be a love hate relationship. One day I was lucky enough to stumble across a book called The Scream Queen's Survival Guide: Avoid machetes, defeat evil children, steer clear of bloody dismemberment, and conquer other horror movie cliches by Meredith O'Hayre. Ohh, I had no idea what I was in for when I made this purchase, but I can honestly say it is one the best books I have read in a long time. I might be biased due to my fascination for horror films, but it really is that amazing of a book! I laughed, I reminisced, and it made me wish I was a scream queen!

This book is filled with hilarious chapters filled with vital information if you happen to find yourself in a horror movie like situation. For instance, in the chapter called "Freaky Locales" the author says "If some place seems too good to be true, don't get a hotel room there," and then goes on to mention Hostel. If you saw it, you know what she's talking about! She has advice for almost every situation and circumstance you can think of and have seen on the bog screen.

Some of her advice includes:

Keep your V-card
Keep your play list light, you ever hear of anyone getting cut when they're cuttin' footloose?
Don't ignore your visions
Don't bother with the fuse box
Hold that sigh of relief until daylight
Never babysit (from my favorite chapter: "That's one f***ed-up little kid"
Skip Prom
Stay out of the crop circles
Don't go looking for your pet in a dark and sketchy place

The author even references current horror movies such as Jennifer's Body, though, like most horror movies these days, it felt more like a comedy, but then again I am kind of f-ed in the head. The end of the book contains a list of the author's "must see scary flicks". I have seen almost all of them and the ones I haven't are in my Netflix que. Overall, I love this book and I have read it several times and have quoted it more than a fair amount of times. I am really happy I bought this book because it makes me smile just knowing it's on my bookshelf.

Coming Clean

2011-06-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

I admit it! I love horror movies! I love hearing the sirens of scream queens, blood drenched scenes, and killers that don't run, yet always manage to kill their prey. I wish everyday was Halloween and I love Ministry for making a song titled as such. I love all types of scary movies whether they be good, bad, b rate, classic, foreign, black and white, or even a bit artsy..... that last comment was for you, Antichrist with Willem Dafoe! As much as I love these, there is something even more horrifying that I love. Some call these things guilty pleasures, I call them the true dark side. They following is a list, in no particular order of my guilty pleasures. It is time for me to come clean!

- iCarly
- Dawson's Creek
- Teen movies from any decade (Jawbreaker and Heathers are bad ass and are not guilty pleasure!)
- Drive Me Crazy
- The Secret Life of the American Teenager (which is terrible and I only watch because I like the "slut")
- Coyote Ugly
- Spice World (stfu)
- Wizards of Waverly Place
- Sabrina the Teenage Witch
- Boy Meets World
- The Prince and Me
- Bring It On and all the sequals that followed
- Whatever It Takes
- She's All That
- Loser
- Get Over It
- Center Stage
- She's the Man
- Teen Witch
- Encino man
-John Tucker Must Die
- Dick
- Freaky Friday
- A Cinderella Story
- Legally Blonde
- Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure (not really embarrassed by this one or the sequal)
- Get Over It

Yeah, I can pretty much say if it has Julia Stiles, Hillary Duff, Kirsten Dunst, Britney Spears, Melissa Joan Hart, Molly Ringwald, Mandy Moore, or one of The Cories in it, I probably like it, own it, and have seen it a few hundred times.

I have no idea why I like these things so much. It just amazes me that I can watch every single Sleepaway Camp and then want to watch a Mandy Moore movie. Oh well. Like I said, I am just coming clean!

What A Girl Wants

2011-05-24T14:32:00.000-07:00

Alright Boils and Ghouls, here is another installment of featured shops by moi! The shop I am featuring belongs to a lady from Baltimore named Vicky. Her shop isn't filled with creepy or blood drenched items, but she has some mad skill when it comes to beading and making jewelry and being from Baltimore gives her extra points in my book! I interviewed her and the following is what I learned about this talented lady.

The Artist, Vicky

My name is Vicky Mizurak, I’m 27 years old and I am happily married to my husband who I’ve been with since we were 18. I graduated from UMBC as a Psychology major and I work for Social Security Administration (I’ve been at my job for four years). I have a 4 year old Labrador named Daisy who I fully treat like my child. We don’t have any children yet but I have a bunch of nephews and nieces that I adore. Aside from my obvious love of jewelry and accessories, I pretty much spend the rest of my spare time with my family and friends. I love the beach, summer, boating and anything water related pretty much and I love going on day trips to new places!

Vicky, Daisy, and The Husband

1. How do you find time to juggle a social life and find time to keep up with your Etsy shop?

Juggling a full time job, social life and Etsy is always the ongoing battle in my life. I try to mix them together, so at work on my breaks I take time to check in on my Etsy shop and respond to messages and emails. In the evenings on week nights I try to work on jewelry, listings and other items for my shop, but I also try to host a dinner night with friends once a week or every other week to just take a break and unwind. On the weekends I normally take my jewelry with me when we go places, so if we go to hang out with the family on a Sunday, I will take my laptop or my traveling jewelry case with me and make items as I enjoy spending time with the family. My family and friends are super supportive of my jewelry business and are always understanding when I break out my kit and start to work!

Pendant Latch Earrings

2. How did you get your start in making jewelry and accessories?

As a child my girlfriends and I always made bracelets and jewelry with the cheapy elastic and cheap plastic beads. So I’ve always had that love of jewelry making. As I got older, I was always into crafts, scrapbooking and stuff like that in general. After graduating college I had hosted a jewelry show (from another vendor) at my home and after the show my mom and friends were talking about all the different bracelets we liked. As we talked, my mom said she really felt like I could make them myself, so taking her up on the challenge I decided to give it a shot! Well a trip to Michaels craft store and a few hours later, I had made my first bracelet! After that it just took off and as I started to wear my work people were asking where I got things at. After countless suggestions from people that I should start selling my work I finally decided to take the plunge. I found Etsy through a web search and started my shop. Shortly after opening I started to branch out into the accessories territory after making my first pair of flip flops and that has opened so many other fun doors!

Live For Soccer

3. Where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from so many different places. Colors, locations, seasons, holidays, sometimes even one bead itself can give me inspiration into an item. I sometimes even wake up with ideas out of nowhere!

Wine Bottle Hug

4. Do you have a favorite item in your shop that you are particularly proud of either because it was a challenge or because of how it turned out? What is it and why?

I am proud of most my items, but one that was the biggest challenge for me so far has to be Big Plans, a larger than life cluster beaded necklace I made. It took countless hours and some much time but when I got done I was so in love with it! My friends and I named it because we all agreed with such a large focal piece you’d need “big plans” to wear it! It’s a total statement piece no doubt.

Cluster Necklace

5. How would you describe your creative process?

My creative process can be described as trial and error I’d say. I don’t do a lot of preplanning when I start something new, I just tend to string it together, and if I don’t like it, take it apart and do it again! Some nights everything that I string flows perfectly and I don’t have to try again, other nights I will spend all night restringing over and over until I like what I see! I think that when you look at a piece of jewelry it should flow, both colors and shapes, so I try to make sure that mine do just that!

Not So Cold Hearted

6.Where would you like to be in 10 years?

Hopefully with a happy healthy family and great friends and to have a thriving Etsy shop! I am so excited about the future and where my shop will go and I look forward to putting in the time and work to make it great for all the shoppers! My ultimate dream is that one day I can retire early and just work on jewelry and accessories, maybe even have an actual physical shop of my own!

Ravens Lover

7. What advice would you give a new seller on Etsy?

As cliché as it sounds, Don’t Give Up!!! Etsy is something that takes time and devotion but if you give it that you will learn and grow. My first year was slow, I almost gave up, but thanks to my family and friends support I didn’t. The second year was even better and this year has been beyond what I had imagined. My goal this year was to make it to 100 sales by December… I just passed that goal in March so you can do it too! Just be confident in what you make, love what you make and making it and that will show through your items!

Sterling Silver Cluster Ring

8. Since you are a local, what is your favorite place in Baltimore to visit and why?

I absolutely adore Baltimore. I love so many places, but if I had to pick on spot I would say the Inner Harbor, and more specifically Rashfield, which used to host the outdoor ice rink in the winter. I worked there through high school and it’s where I met my husband so it holds a really special place in my heart! (My second favorite place is the football stadium Go Ravens!)

Baltimore

9. What is your favorite John Waters film?

I absolutely love Hairspray Hon!

Von Tussle Versus Turnblad

If you would like to check out her shop this is her shops link. She also has a Facebook Page and a Twitter Page.

What is Civilized?

2011-05-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you combine a film crew, a cannibal tribe, real life animal slaughter and then label it as a documentary? The answer is one hell of a scandal and a court date for the director! Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Cannibal Holocaust!

Cannibal Holocaust is an Italian film that was made in February of 1980 and caused a shock wave of anger, confusion, and legal issues that wasn't again repeated until The Blair Witch Project was released into theaters. Cannibal Holocaust is about a crew of three young documentary film makers that venture into the Amazon to study indigenous tribes. The crew goes missing for two months before people go to search for the film makers and come across the same cannibal tribe the film makers ran into, only to find their footage and what appears to be their remains. The footage is taken back to the US is viewed. What is found is unbelievable. There are many scenes that involve killing animals for food, rituals of the tribe they find, and the disrespectful things the crew does to this tribe. I don't want to give away too much, but in a way, the films makers got what was coming to them, cannibal tribe or not.

When the film was released into theaters it was removed and seized by the courts ten days later and the director, Ruggero Deodato was arrested and charged with obscenity and later the murder of the three film makers. The courts looked at this film as if it were real and called it a snuff film. Deodato soon contacted one of the Italian actors in the film and had him gather the rest of the cast to prove that they were, in fact, alive and well. The murder charges were dropped, but the film remained banned in Italy for another three years.

Even though the controversy appeared to be over when the chargers were dropped, there was still the matter of the actual animal slaughters that occurred on the film. During the film several animals were killed live on camera. The killed animals were a coatimundi (erroneously referred to as a muskrat in the film), a turtle, a snake, a tarantula, a spider monkey, and a pig. Since its original release, Cannibal Holocaust has been the target of censorship by moral and animal activists.

On top of the animal slaughters, there is also a large amount of sexual violence towards women in this film that causes a bit of controversy too. One of the most infamous scenes shows a woman being tortured and later impaled with a large stick that goes through her bottom and out her mouth. It's become the films most iconic symbol.

As a result of all of these things, this film is banned in more countries than any other film ever made! Countries that banned the movie at one time or another include Italy, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Burma, Norway, South Africa, Finland, Turkey, Singapore, Germany, Iran and Morocco. Believe it or not, Cannibal Holocaust remains banned in several countries to this day.

Now, what do I think of this film? I was really grossed out by the animal deaths, but as for the effects and make up... amazing! This is not my favorite film ever made, but I do get an urge to watch it every now and again. I think that once you get past the gross factors, of which there are many, it is a film that really makes you think. It makes you wonder about anytime man has invaded someone else's territory and won the fight. What if they hadn't? What kind of world would we live in if this was the norm? What is it to be civilized and is it a good thing? i think my favorite response was by author Mark Goodall. He believes that the film is about, "...the rape of the natural world by the unnatural; the exploitation of 'primitive' cultures for western entertainment."

Friday the 13th

2011-05-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is, Friday the 13th! Some people see this as a day of bad luck, others use it an excuse to have a Jason Vorhees marathon, and then you have those that could simply careless what day it is. I got a bit curious as to where these superstitions about Friday the 13th came from and here is some of the info that I found.

Apparently the number thirteen isn't the only part of Friday the thirteenth that is viewed as being unlucky, but Friday itself is said to be unlucky as well. A lot of what I have read seems to go back to the bible. Twelve is a number that is believed to be complete. There are twelve months in a year, twelve hours of the clock, twelve tribes of Israel, and twelve Apostles of Jesus. Thirteen is seen as irregular and disrupting to the completeness. This theory mainly derives from The Last Supper that having thirteen people at a table will result in the death of one of the diners. It is also believed that Friday is bad luck because it is the day that Jesus was crucified. It is also considered unlucky with the stock market crashing on what is now called "Black Friday". Now, when you combine the two you have one of the most unluckiest days of the year! There are so many people that have a phobia of Friday the 13th that there is a name for it, friggatriskaidekaphobia.

While there have been some instances where "bad luck" has struck on this date, there have been a lot of studies done that show this day may not be as unlucky as you think. Some people look back on events that occurred on Friday the thirteenth that were quite dreadful. There was the Hurricane Charley in Florida, the death of rapper Tupac, a snow storm in Buffalo, NY that produced up to twenty-four inches of snow, and there is even a prediction of a asteroid called "99942 Apophis" that is predicted to hit in 2039 on Friday the thirteenth. While these events have happened or, in the case of the asteroid, are predicted to happen, there is some positive that has come from this. There have been several studies that show on any given Friday versus one on the thirteenth of the month there are less traffic accidents, less fires, and less injuries at work. I suppose people are a bit more cautious on this day versus any "normal Friday".

Either way, no matter how you cope with this day, be it watching horror movies or being overly precautions, be safe and enjoy yourself! It is still Friday, after all.

Ex-Con Turned Icon

2011-05-07T21:43:00.000-07:00

In my life I have had many celebrity crushes. Some are weird, some are strange, and one is even a cartoon... If you have ever watched Daria and had an unusual attraction to Trent you know where I am coming from. One of my current celebrity crushes is Danny Trejo. Yes! I said Danny Trejo. If you don't know who that is, let me tell you now, you know who he is. All you have to do it watch a movie with bad ass prisoners, something by Rob Zombie, or a film by Robert Rodriguez and you will see this man in it. He usually plays a rough, bad ass criminal that is tough as nails and then some. He has a scarred face, a long thin mustache, a muscular body, and a large tattoo on his chest making him one of the most distinctive character actors of our time.

Danny Trejo

Danny as Machete

Danny Trejo is in more movies than I can recall and how he got his start in film is quite amazing. He is one of those guys that had a rough childhood that involved drugs and prison. From the time he was a small child he was in and out of jail for 11 years. At one point he ended up in San Quentin. While in prison he took to boxing an won several lightweight titles. When he got out he successfully a 12 step rehab program and changed his life forever. He continued to help others by speaking to people that were going through the same things he was going through with drugs.

Rob Zombie, Diamond Dallas Page, and Danny Trejo

One day while he was speaking at a Cocaine Anon meeting he met a young man that was an actor. He asked Danny to be his sponsor and Danny agreed. Shortly after Danny received a call from the actor saying that he was on the set of a film and that there were drugs and alcohol everywhere tempting him and he asked if Danny would come down to the set as moral support. Danny agreed and soon found himself on the set of Runaway Train. The director saw Danny and asked him to be an extra in the film as a convict because of his tough appearance and tattoos. Also on this same set was a screenwriter that Danny had did time with. The screenwriter remembered Danny's boxing skills and paid him $350 a day to teach the actors how to box. Danny jokingly replied to offer by saying, "For $350 a day, give him a bat. I used to get beat up for free!"

Danny Trejo and Quentin Tarantino

This was the start of Danny's still amazing career in movies. Since then he has been cast in over 200 films. Watch out Kevin Bacon, your name game is about to get demolished! Six degrees of who what now? Since the 1990's Danny has been in at least four films a year and 2002 he was in a total of nine films!

Danny Trejo on the set of From Dusk Til Dawn

In 2005 Danny stepped out of his element and did a documentary called Champion. This film is completely about him. It looks at him before he got into acting and talks about his childhood and issues he faced growing up. This documentary is a very intimate look at his life and I highly recommend it to anyone that adores this man as much as I do.

Champion

I got the chance to meet Danny at a horror convention in Maryland called Horrorfind Weekend in 2009. I was absolutely tickled to meet him. I gladly paid my $30 for a signed picture of himself and as he was signing his name we chatted a bit. I told him that my mother was going to be very jealous that I was getting to meet him. He asked why she didn't come and I told him that she was babysitting my sister's two year old twins while my sister worked as a single mom. He then asked what my mother's name was and signed a photo for her and personalized it free of charge. This made me love him even more.

Danny Trejo, Me, and Kristina Klebe

Danny Trejo and Maggie Gyllenhaal on the set of Sherrybaby

On top of filming an insane amount of movies, attending conventions, keeping up appearances, and spending time with his family, he still speaks and twelve step programs. How can you not love this man? No offense to my fiance or Danny's wife, but I got dibs next time he's in town!

Danny and wife Debbie.

Living Dead Girls Never Looked So Good

2011-05-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

It's late at night and there are no lights on. Just a faint and eerie glow ahead. All is quite except for a faint clicking that isn't rhythmic, but is consistent. I keep my eyes peeled for what monsters I may come across. Then I see it, it's a zombie! I am bothered, yet I can't stop staring. It's skin is green and decaying with an eye missing and a mouth dripping in blood. I can't tell if it's a male or female, all I know is I want to see more zombies, so I click on the next item in Living Dead Girl Nicole's shop! That's right. I was up late at night clicking that mouse like it's my job while scoping out LDG Nicole's shop!

LDG Nicole is a fellow Etsy seller as well as the Captain of our team, Etsy Massacre. Nicole makes amazing macabre accessories as drawings of horror icons in cinema. She really has amazing talent and taste and has combined the two thus making her Etsy shop! I had a few questions for Nicole and the following is what I learned about this talented lady.

I asked Nicole about her personal life to learn some more about what her life is like and this is what she told me.

I am a parent of 2 kick ass cats ha ha. Ichabod (after Ichabod Crane) and Sabbath (after Black Sabbath). I am married to my high school sweetheart Frank. We have been together since 1998 and got married on Halloween in 2009. Besides my art I also love to scrapbook. I also love attending horror cons, renaissance faires, tattoo cons and rock concerts. I do work full time as a Senior Billing Administrator.. but my art is what keeps me sane!

1. You have a lot of items that stand out. When most people think handmade they think sewing, soap, and knitted goods. What inspires you to make such edgy items?

I think its my love for all things edgy that inspires me really. I have never been a go with the norm type of girl ..not only in my art but in my life in general.

2. How long have you been drawing? Did you go to school for art?

I have been drawing since I was able to pick up a pencil as a little living dead girl ;) I use to enter coloring contests as a kid to try to win tickets to the circus (cause I was obsessed with the circus ha ha). I also use to color my Barbie's hair with markers until they came out with Jem and the Holograms dolls. I went to art school for a short bit of time right after I finished high school but sadly I did not finish.. it was so expensive and I was at a point in my life where I was out on my own and had to get a full time job to support myself. I have since taken a few specialty classed from time to time since then, I get most of my training from my father who is also an amazing artist. If I ever am in doubt about something with my art my Dad always has the answer. He taught me "if your an artist you can fix any "mistake" and make it happen" and to "never give up on my talent".

3. Is there a particular item in your shop that you are most proud of? Which one and why?

I would have to go with my Robert Englund/Freddy Krueger Portrait "Sweet Dreams".. it's a newer portrait I just recently did this year that I hope to give to Robert when I meet him for the 2nd time this summer. I like it cause it's not your typical portrait and it was also hard for me to find photos that were similiar pose wise to get the vision I was going for.. but I did it. *pats self on back* ha ha

4.Are you currently working on any new drawings or have plans for new pieces that you would like to share?

I have a long lists of portraits I would love to do. Alice Cooper and Miss Argentina from Beetlejuice are on the top of the list ;) I am also considering making a female zombie head of some sorts! Eyelashes and all!

5. Since you have many horror inspired items, what is your all time favorite horror movie?

Ahh this one is so terrible to answer because I could list you so many favorites and I have my reasons for each as to why I love them so much. But if I had to pick just one I would say Bram Stoker's Dracula, I can read the book and watch that movie over and over again. I even wore Mina's red dress as my wedding dress, Love Never Dies was our theme of the wedding and we had a quote from the movie in our wedding invitations. If I were to go with a stabbing slasher type film I would say House of 1000 Corpses.. I love all things Rob Zombie.. and I am in love with this movie, its characters and it's fun creepy cookiness. I also have many awesome memories meeting many of the characters from the movie so it makes the film watching experience that much more special to me. I also have a Lucy Westenra tattoo on my arm ha ha. and a Baby Firefly tattoo on my leg.

6. I noticed in your blog that you have been to some horror conventions. Is there any person that you've met that particularly stands out for you? Who is it and why?

Another hard one......... but I will have to say Elvira. I have wanted to be that woman since I was a little living dead girl.. hence my quote "when other little girls wanted to be ballerinas I wanted to be Elvira".... I will admit I still do ha ha. When I met her she was exactly how I hoped she would be.. I even told her about when I dressed up like her for Halloween when I was in 3rd grade and my Mom wouldn't let me put the "cut in my dress" like she had ha ha. I gave her the portrait I drew of her and she really liked it.. she looked at it and said "I have gotten a lot of artwork.. but this one.. this one is reeeeally good"....... a dream come true.

7. If you could give any advice to a new seller on Etsy, what would it be?

Sent your shop policies right off the bat! And if you do custom items always ask for 1/2 up front to cover your costs!! And most importantly always be true to yourself and your art! Make what you love and the buyers will come! Don't change your art to make more sales! Art is about expressing yourself to the fullest!

If you would like to check out more of Nicole's work you can visit her Etsy Shop, her LinkedIn, her blogspot, or check out the Etsy Massacre! You can also click on the links I have on the right side of this post.

bored?

2011-05-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

Are you ever bored? Do you like to shop? Do you like on-line stores? Are you an Etsy fan? Well if you are like me and answered yes to all four of those questions you should check out my page of treasuries that I have made. I have treasuries that ranged from The Addams Family and Twin Peaks to Rainy Days and Spending a Night out on the Town! So check them out and leave me some comment love too!

Jewelry on the Brain!

2011-05-03T16:57:00.000-07:00

In the short time that I have been on Etsy I have had the pleasure of getting to know many sellers and buyers. They sellers have always amazed me with their endless talents, the time they put into their shops, and still having the time to live their lives and raise their families. It's amazing what people can accomplish with so little spare time with their busy lives. Today's featured shop is Katiebug Creations.

The owner of this shop is Marianne and she is one of these people! She is from Illinois, the mother of three children, a loving wife, and a skilled jewelry maker. I asked her a few questions and this is what I learned about Marianne today.

Green Glass Seed Bead Shamrock Pendant Necklace

1. How did you get started making jewelry and get started on Etsy?

I have been making projects for as long as I can remember. Music and art in school when I was younger.

I started making jewelry in 2007. I started to sell it about 2008. Before that I did candle making, soaps, and stamping as gifts. While doing the jewelry I also got into cake decorating. I just love to make things. And I try new things all the time.

I am a full time mom and love it!. I would also love it if my etsy shop took off, It would be an ideal job since my youngest will be starting school this year.

Wire Wrapped Dragonfly Necklace

2. How do you juggle your home life, making jewelry, and a social life?

Honestly I have no idea how I juggle it all? :) I guess I just do the next thing. I was diagnosed in 2007 with SLE Lupus as well. It means I have to keep my stress to a minimum so I think making jewelry helps me. Plus my faith in Jesus is a big factor. I endlessly make lists and schedules. Being organized helps a lot. Plus I'm a clean freak so I am always on the go. Making Jewelry is a down time kind of a thing. I think I have a good social life... I have 3 kids...;) My husband still loves me despite being surrounded by my crafting stuff. And I enjoy making jewelry for my friends and family. It's like sharing a piece of me with them.

Beach Inspired Blue Tone Bead and Chain Bracelet

3. Where do you think you draw most of your inspiration from and do you think it shows in your pieces?

I constantly have some idea running through my brain of different projects or ideas, some times I sketch them out to get a rough picture. It depends on the day. I check out pictures in magazines and when I go to the store or on Etsy I find ideas as well. When I see something I always take it and then turn it into my own. I love making simple pieces nothing to complicated or involved. Stuff I can look at and say "I can make that".

Gold Circle Chandelier Brown Glass Bead Earrings

4. Is there any item in your shop that you are particularly proud of making either because you did it or because it was a challenge? Which piece and why?

I have a couple. I have a stash that I make for myself and then there are ones I make to sell or give as gifts. The Dragonfly necklace is the most recent... I saw someone made one out of copper wire a bit smaller and thicker. I have a friend who loves dragonflies so I figured why not try to make one. At first I tried it free hand but it didn't work out so well, and I remembered I have a wire wrapping tool so why not use that. Well it worked! I added beads to mine and my friend loves it. Same with the Bee necklace. Sometimes I like my pieces just because the colors come together in the right way. Then there are times I make one that goes into the remake pile and no one sees it EVER. :)

Wire Wrapped Bee Necklace

5. Are you currently working on any new items that you would like to share?

I love to work on new projects all the time. When I find new beads, see a cool picture or piece I start planning how I can make it my own way. Right now my family is busy with end of the school year stuff and birthdays so mostly I am in gift mode. I have not had a ton of time to make new things. Summer will be here soon and I will have more time for projects.

Purple and Clear Glass Bead Necklace with Resin Pendant

6. Are there any mediums or techniques you haven't used that you are thinking of trying out?

There are SOOOO many different mediums. I have used polymer clay before I don't think I have gotten the nack of it yet. My pieces didn't come out as nice as my perfection complex would have liked. But I won't stop trying. I have used stamping and shrinky dink paper to make beads. That is fun. I would LOVE to be able to try metal clay. I have SOOOOO many ideas for it. I just don't have any room for the equipment. Plus I have little kids, open flame is not a good mix. Maybe in the near future. I like to use whatever I can get my hands on.

Wire Wrapped Lupus Awareness Bracelet

7. What advice would you give to someone that wants to start making jewelry?

For any one who wants to start making jewelry I would have to say GO FOR IT! That is how I started. I didn't take classes or go to school, I just did it. Who cares if you don't know how to make it, try making it your own way if it doesn't work out then start over and try it again. Eventually you will make something you like. When I first started there was only a small section for beads and jewelry making. Now there are so many choices and styles. I love it. Get books, find pictures, take apart store bought jewelry you don't wear anymore, make new things with it... just try it you might just love it like I did!

Purple and Black 8 Strand Seed Bead Necklace

If you would like to check out more of Marianne's work please visit her shop! She also has a facebook page.

Fun Stuff!

2011-05-01T14:17:00.000-07:00

Okay Boils and Ghouls there is a lot going on with my shop lately and I just wanted to keep everyone in the loop!

First off, I applied for the Charm City Craft Mafia's Pile of Craft show that takes place in Baltimore every June. I just heard back that I got wait listed, but I am fine with that. I honestly wasn't sure how my stuff would do at an indie craft show anyway.

Second, for those of you that follow my facebook page I just announced the winner of April's giveaway, Christen! She is the proud owner of an Etsy shop called ZombieHolocaust. She makes awesome handmade cake toppers that are rather edgy and absolutely amazing! As she likes to say, "Not your grandmother's cake topper shop!"

For those of you that are not familiar with My Facebook Page, this is where I like to post discount codes, new items, things I am working on, horror trivia, treasuries, and anything else that tickles my fancy! Anyone that "likes" is automatically entered into the giveaway I have at the end of the month. The winner gets to pick their favorite item in my shop for free! It doesn't matter if you've been a fan of my page from day one or for just a week, when the end of the month comes everyone has the same odds of winning. The winner is randomly selected the old school way involving assigned numbers that are randomly picked out of a bowl.

Thirdly, my shop is featured as the shop of the month with one of the Etsy teams I am in, the Etsy Massacre Team! Check out the teams blog to see the post about my shop!

Fourth, I am working on some new items made out of tulle! If you want to see some new items check out the facebook page! It's a sneak peek at some new brooches and scare for your hair!

Lastly, I am proud to say that two shops in Hampden, Maryland (a town outside of downtown Baltimore City) carry some of my items! One shop is Kiss-N-Make-Up and the other is a new shop called In The Details. Kiss-N-Make-Up specializes in salon services such as hair, make up, waxings, pedicures, and manicures! They also sell novelty items, hilarious greeting cards, make up, nail polish, jewelry, and excellent gifts to get that person that you never know what to get! In the Details is a new store, so new it hasn't even had it's grand opening yet. However, the store will be having a meet and greet for "First Fridays" where shops in Hampden on the Avenue stay open a bit later than usual. There is always good food, drinks, fun people, and awesome shops to go shopping in! If you live in the area and have never gone, I highly recommend that you check it out this Friday!

Enjoy and take advantage of the 30% off discount while it's still good!

Dear Glenn, You'll Always be Divine

2011-04-30T14:13:00.000-07:00

I have many obsessions. I consider lip balm, John Waters, horror movies, Baltimore, and Etsy's activity feed to be in my top 10. One of my obsessions stemmed from being a John Waters fan, and his name is Harris Glenn Milstead, but most people know him as Divine.

John Water and Glenn

Glenn was born in Towson, Maryland and with the help of John Waters and Glenn's own determination for fame, he became a cross-dressing icon of a generation!

Glenn in High School

Divine was Glenn's alter ego and stage name for when he did films and concerts as a female. Divine was loud in every meaning of the word from appearance to her voice! From the mid 1960's through the 80's he had a role, and sometimes the main role in several John Waters films. The most notorious was Pink Flamingos. Divine's role in this midnight movie gave her a lot of attention because of the films final scene where Divine actually eats dog feces.

Divine in Pink Flamingos

After Pink Flamingos the next big role Divine had was as Edna Turnblad in the 1988 original film, Hairspray. Divine also played a male role in the film as well as Arvin Hodgepile. When the film was turned into a musical the role of Edna Turnblad was still and is still played by a male actor.

Divine and Travolta as Edna Turnblad

In between doing John Waters films, Divine had toured all over the world as a singer doing disco music. When Glenn toured as Divine he lived up to the loud and trashy stereotypes that his alter ego was known for.

A Greatest Hits Album

In the end, he did very well as a disco performer, but ended up doing more acting before he passed away on March 7th of 1988.

Glenn's Resting Place in Towson

When Glenn passed away is was in a hotel room in California in the middle of the night. His cause of death was heart failure that doctors believe was set off by his sleep apnea. What is even more tragic than the death of this amazingly talented actor was knowing that later that very same day he was going to sign the contracts to be cast as a regular male role on the hit tv show, Married with Children. He was going to be cast as Uncle Otto, finally giving him the credit as a male actor that he deserved and so greatly longed for! The popularity of this show would have made Glenn and Divine household names all over the US. There's no telling what his career would have amounted to if he hadn't passed away that night.

News paper clip after his death

If you are interested in reading about Divine there are many books out there about this amazing man! There is one called My Son Divine, which was written by his mother and another that I recommend called Not So Divine that was written by his former manager, Bernard Jay. There are also many films out there and albums too!

A Biography by his Mother

Vintage and Antique Goods with Movie Maven

2011-04-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that it is already time for another featured shop post! This week's featured shop from The Etsy Buddies Team is Movie Maven from Baltimore, Maryland! Movie Maven has been an Etsy seller since August of last year and sell vintage and antique items. She has everything from linens and jewelry to books and glassware. I asked Movie Maven a few questions and this is what I learned about her!

Vintage blue glass hen-on-a-nest candy dish

1. How did you get into selling vintage items?

I retired 3 years ago and have committed myself to unclutter the closets, cedar chests and dresser drawers in the house. I've been legal guardian to an elderly aunt, and after she died, I had the task of cleaning out her house, selling her home, cars, etc., and it took over 2 years. Then another aunt died, an uncle....and recently moved my mother into a senior apartment complex, then my brother . and my handicapped sister.

I helped them each move from a full sized house to a small apartment. My car was like a traveling flea market for over a year, constantly schlepping junk from somebody's house to Goodwill or Salvation Army. I thought it would never end.

I love antique linens, and can't help myself at flea markets, estate sales, and auctions.

Vintage ladies Revlon Love-Pat compact

2. Is there anything specific you look for when you attend auctions or go to antique malls? Like to you look for housewares, clothing, kitchen supplies?

I'm usually checking out the linens, vintage glassware and silver/silverplate items. Linens tend to go for a song, especially at an auction. Folks these days are not into washing and ironing table linens, nor polishing silver. I love taking care of pretty things.

Vintage Whiting and Davis gold necklace

3. Have you ever come across an item you couldn't part with? If so what was it?

An item I couldn't part with?? I adore vintage pillowcases, those that have embroidery, tatting, lace or openwork on them, and have collected more than my fair share. I especially love cutwork on anything - pillowslips, tablecloths, and dresser scarves. I've had to sell a few off, just to make room for more things that fit my tables better. I'm also guilty of spreading the wealth around by giving away beautiful linens, vases, silver, etc to friends and relatives.

Vintage Old Salem, North Carolina tea towel

4. If you could give any advice to someone that has never gone out looking for antiques and vintage items, what would that be?

Start small. Concentrate in one or two areas initially, and spend a lot of time researching the marketability of what you want to collect. Important to know prices and how it relates to condition. A $300 Waterford vase with a crack or chip won't fetch $10. After gaining some experience in a small area, branch out to other items that you like. Attend auctions and estate sales, flea markets, etc as much as possible. eBay is also a good barometer for what's selling and for how much, but its also a fickle market. What's hot this week can be cold potatoes next.

Vintage Fostoria "Astral" pattern serving pieces

5. Ohhhh, I also wanted to ask.... since your name is movie maven.... what is your take on John Waters? and who is your all time favorite leading lady?

John Waters - he's helped give Baltimore some glam and notoriety.

Favorite actress: Bette Davis is at the top of the list. I hated her movies as a kid (I think because they were mostly black and white and were probably too sophisticated for a kid). When I got older, I watched Now Voyager and became an instant fan. Also love Hedy Lamarr, Irene Dunn, Myrna Loy, Mary Aster, Beulah Bondi and Thelma Ritter.

Most of those names aren't recognizable these days, but I'm a movie maven and adore old movies - the golden age of Hollywood (movies of the late 30s, 40s and 50s).

If you would like what you read and what to see what's in store, just check out Movie Maven's Etsy Shop!

Twilight in Fairy Garden

2011-04-19T11:20:00.000-07:00

Hey there boils and ghouls! Starting this week I will begin making posts about shops that I have come across that are filled with interesting creations! To kick off the very first of many featured shops is Twilight in fairy Garden! This shop owners says that she specializes in Irish and Celtic designs, original art, art boxes, handmade jewelry, steampunk jewelry, collage art, and assemblage sculptures. I asked her a few questions and here is how that went.

1. How did you get started in crafting and making jewelry?

I used to work and go to college full time...BS in Microbiology and Biochemistry and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology. I worked full time at a pharmacology company for 3 years. I decided to quit 3 years ago because I never saw my husband and my girls. That is when I started making art and jewelry. I found it to be very relaxing and fun! I am still learning every day and am working on patience and taking my time with my art in order to improve my quality. I always have loved drawing and took classes in college. I also love music and have been in many church acapella groups.

Dragonfly Art Box

2. How long have you been on Etsy?

I have only been on Etsy for about 6 months, somewhere around there!

3. What is your favorite item in your shop now and why?

That is a hard one...right now, I think my favorite item is Doodle Bug...the necklace! But it is about to be my new theatre box! I am very excited about how that turned out! I will be listing it as soon as I find my connector!

Nessie and the Emerald Isle - Necklace

4. If there is one piece of advice you would give to fellow crafters out there, what would it be?

HAVE FUN!!! Take your time!!! There is a visible difference in the quality of the works when you are havind FUN and not rushing through a project! But mostly....HAVE FUN!!!!!!

Altered Time - steampunk, assemblage, collage, altered, antique brass necklace with watch pieces

5. Is there anything new that you are working on for your shop?

I just finished the box as I mentioned earlier, but I will also be working on some candle holders and incense holders! I love re-purposing old objects and making them new!!! But I believe boxes...whether it be painting them, decopaging, or embellishing is my favorite thing to work on. I am going to be adding new items little by little as I will be taking more time to complete my art! Also, I have ordered more jewelry making supplies as well. Jewelry is so much fun! I guess I will be working on many things, and having fun the whole time!

ACEO Block Art Painting

It always makes me glad to hear that others are just as eager to make new and fun things as well as take their time to make them the best that can. Quality is a key factor. Throughout this post I have shown images of items in Twilight in Fairy Garden's shop that are currently for sale. If you are interested in purchasing any of them or would like to see what else is in store this is her shop's link!

Role Models by a Role Model

2011-04-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

Anyone that knows me can tell you that if there is one thing in life that I am obsessed over it would be a man named John Waters. As he has said in one of his many books and films, "Life is nothing if you're not obsessed." I had the pleasure of meeting him briefly at a book signing last June for his latest literary success, Role Models. This book is unlike his others. Usually his books come off as strange and unusual tales from making his films and the people he has worked with. This time his stories are still strange and unusual, but are coming from a more personal place that isn't solely out for the shock value. It's all much more intimate, sort of like seeing a family photo album that you thought they probably had, but never knew they kept and truly treasured.

John Waters

"Role Models" is a collection of people that John Waters has admired and even met. However, for anyone that knows his work, you should have guessed that his list of role models isn't going to consist of past presidents, fire fighters, or the cliche family member that survived cancer. His list includes people like Johnny Mathis, Leslie Van Houten (known for her involvement with the Manson Family), Rei Kawakudo (Comme des Garcons, fashion), and a local stripper named Zorro. These people have all had some impact on John Waters and unlike most people who just brush people off as no good or trash, Waters has gone out of his way to try to understand these people better. See what is beyond the public view, see what makes these people tick, and how they ultimately became the person they were and the person they are today. He doesn't just see people at one end of the spectrum or the other. He doesn't see good or bad and label people as such. He looks for something deeper, something unknown, and if that something be vulgar, shocking, lewd, or tasteless.... so be it! After all, he is known as the Pope of Trash for a reason.

I think my most favorite chapter out of this book is the one on Leslie Van Houten. He starts this chapter by saying,

"I have a really good friend who was convicted of killing two innocent people when she was nineteen years old on a horrible night of 1969 cult madness. Her name is Leslie Van Houten and I think you would like her as much as I do. She was one of those notorious "Manson Girls" who shaved their heads, carved X's in their foreheads, and laughed, joked, and sang their way through the courthouse straight to death row without the slightest trace of remorse forty years ago. Leslie is hardly a Mason girl today. Sixty years old, she looks back from prison on her involvement in the LaBianca murders (the night after the Tate massacre) in utter horror, shame, and guilt and takes full responsibility for her part in the crimes. I think it's time to parole her."

This picture is at the beginning of the chapter. It shows Leslie and John.

The chapter is one of the longer ones, but by the time it's over you wish you could give Leslie a hug and her life back.

John is still hard at work on his book tour! He has been doing talk shows, interviews, signings, and there is even more demand for him with the paperback version coming out this Spring! At one of his many tv interviews he had the pleasure of meeting Justin Beiber. Yes! The Pope of Trash met Justin Beiber who told John that his "stache is the jam!" In fact, the young popstar drew the stache on himself! Ohhh, our John is leaving his mark on everyone these days!


Justin Beiber with his John Waters stache!

I personally can't wait for his next book signing in May! I will be there waiting in line like the last time, eagerly awaiting my 30 seconds with The Pope of Trash, himself! and what divine trash he is<3

Some Scare for your Neck

2011-04-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

Okay Boils and Ghouls, this Girly Ghoul has been busy! Now that I have relaxed from my trip to PA I am starting to post new items in my shop. Yesterday I was able to post more than 60 new necklaces and there are still more to come! Over the next few days I will be adding more necklaces, earrings, flower hair clips, and possibly some soap in the shape of skulls and pumpkins! Also, you want current info on my shop, AGhoulsBestFriend find us on facebook and Twitter! Both are constantly updated on a daily basis and have info on new items, discount codes, horror trivia, events, treasuries, and other things that are strange and unusual. Also, if you add my shop on facebook you will be entered to win an item from my shop at the end of every month! Here is a peek at what new items I have posted!

Masque of the Red Death

Dawn of the Dead 2004

Drink Me

Dawn of the Dead 1978

A Ghouls Best Friend Does PA!

2011-04-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend I attended The Jim Thorpe Burlesque Festival in Jim Thorpe, PA. I was a vendor as well as a patron. This weekend was jam packed with vendors, classes, and performers! It was amazing and I don't know how I am going to be able to describe this festival well enough to give it the credit that it deserves. Friday and Saturday nights both had a ton of burlesque performers gracing the stage. There were so many creative acts hat i don't even know where to begin. The headliners were Jaqueline Hyde and Red Hot Annie..... both were amazing. Jaqueline Hyde had a few acts and the one that had me cracking up like no other involved her pretending to be drunk during her performance.... it reminded me of so many nights in which I stumbled home drunk and kicked off my shoes and ungracefully tried to take off my tights and bra. Red Hot Annie came out during a performance with a sign on her front that looked like a short dress and she used paint that matched her skin ton and painted the clothes off before removing the board. There were so many fabulous performers and quite a few from Baltimore! I was giving it up for my local ladies! They really know how to work a stage with just a g string and tassels. everything about this festival was unforgettable! The performers were amazing, the vendors had incredible handmade goods, and everyone was so pleasant! The lady that pulled all of this together with the help of a few others is Madame Corsetiere, Brooke! This woman is so beautiful, so funny, so generous, so talented, and so thoughtful that I almost wish I lived in the middle of nowhere, mountainville, Jim Thorpe too! She owns a shop called Dragontown Corsets and coming soon, Dragontown Vintage! She makes corsets and does custom orders as well. If you are interested in high quality corsets with some of the most beautiful fabrics you'll ever see, check out her site. She has everything from checker board picnic patterns to spider webs! I cannot wait until next year! I have a feeling that this will become a regular event for me to attend and vend at as well! I want to say thanks to everyone that came out and helped make this weekend one of the best that I have had in a long time!

Addiction Leads to the Strange and Unusual

2011-03-30T08:57:00.000-07:00

Hi. My name is Sara and I am addicted to Netflix. I do not take any responsibility of this addiction what so ever! In fact, I blame my fiance. He is the one with the X box, the X box live subscription, the Netflix subscription, and is also the silly person that taught me how to use all of these things for my own personal use. I have something on constantly! While I eat a meal, while I craft, while I fold laundry, while I clean, while I use the computer, while I am getting ready for bed, and even while I read. I think you get the point. It's amazing!

One of my favorite features is the recommendations Netflix gives you based on movies you have watched. Last week one of the movies that was recommended was something called Santa Sangre. I sort of bypassed it without thinking twice, mainly because it looked strange and like there might be subtitles. I don't mind subtitles, but when you need glasses and don't own a pair these movies aren't that enjoyable, especially if you are practically sitting on the coffee table just to see what the heck is being said! Yesterday, while at work, I was looking at the latest issue of Rue Morgue and noticed that there was a article on the movie so I read it.

Santa Sangre is about a young man who was traumatized as a child by the violence within his family. The movie starts off showing his current living situation in a mental institution where he lives like he is a bird. You soon find out that he comes from a family of circus folk. His mother is a trapeze artist and a leader/psycho fanatic of some crazy religion and his father is a ring master/mc kind of fellow. The mother finds out that her husband is cheating on her and pours acid on him as revenge. Soon after the husband cuts off both of her arms (she survives) and then kills himself. When the son is older he helps his mother get a new act underway so she can still perform, by attaching him self to her back so he can be her arms. This movie gets even more bizarre than this! but I will just leave it at that as to not give anything else away. Sadly, what i described is only the first half of the film! There is so much more! it's one of those movies that gets weirder as it goes on just when you think it can't get any more stranger. I am not sure why Netflix recommended this to me... I must watch some seriously screwed up films because I am pretty sure people that watch romantic comedies and Disney films do not get this type of film recommended to them!

The only warnings I have about this film are not to show it to a small child, do not watch it with a headache (lots of Mexican music since it takes place in Mexico), and if you do not like older films that seem like they have bad film quality, well, this may not be for you. Also, the first half, as entertaining and climax filled as it may be, is the half that drags on forever. Otherwise, have fun! You were warned!

Day of the Woman

2011-03-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

In 1978 one of the most notorious revenge films ever made came to theaters and has forever traumatized any man that has ever seen it. This film is, of course, I Spit On Your Grave, also known as Day of the Woman. In the film, a young woman named Jennifer goes to a riverside cabin to work on her novel. Unfortunately, she has attracted the attention of some local men (if you can call them that) who later follow her, strip her, and rape her one by one. Jennifer survives, barely and turns the tables when she goes after the four men that attacked her one by one until she has had her revenge.... and boy does she ever get her revenge!

Most of the publicity this film received was negative. It was first released, uncut, in Australia under "Day of the Woman" and was soon banned. It was later re-released as "I Spit on your Grave" and did a heck of a lot better, but still received negatively publicity from film critics Siskel and Ebert because of the violence towards the female lead. However, publicity is still publicity and the film soon became a cult and horror classic. Camille Keaton (the actress playing Jennifer), whom I had the pleasure of meeting last year, still attends horror conventions and is an absolute peach if I do say so myself.

Recently, the film has gotten a lot of heat again in large part to it's remake that came out last year. It has recently hit stores and has received slightly more positive publicity than the original had. Roger Ebert still gave the film zero out of five stars as he did the original, but that has yet to stop the public from watching it. While the film was waiting to get an MPAA rating the association told the film maker that they could give the movie an NC-17 rating, but they would have to take out a lot of scenes that would make the movie have less of an impact on viewers. In the end the film went unrated. There are some differences in this film and hidden goodies in this film... like when Jennifer is pumping gas and her total is $19.78 (1978 is the year the first one was released) and that there are five male attackers now instead of four.

I'm going to say it, watch this film! Watch both films! Watch them if you are a bad ass chick that doesn't put up with bullshit! Watch it if a guy has ever hurt you and you wanted to hurt them back! Watch it if you think you can stomach it! Whatever you do, don't watch it alone, no matter how much you think the person you are watching it with will judge you. Just Watch It!!!!!!

Getting Ready!

2011-03-25T20:04:00.000-07:00

For the past month I have been working my butt off preparing for an amazing event! This event is The Jim Thorpe Burlesque Festival in PA! It kicks off April 1st and runs through the 3rd. I am registered to be a vendor at this amazing festival and honestly I am so completely tickled at just the thought of being there that I could outsell that damn Tickle Me Elmo doll! Take that Elmo!

This festival has so much to offer! There are classes people can sign up for during the day as well as a vendor room filled with goodies to purchase! There will be all sorts of fun goods and services from corsets to hair accessories! There will even be people giving pin up style make overs. In the evening the classes will end and the vendor rooms will close and this is when the shows begin. I have tickets for Saturday nights festivities, "The Big Reveal". A group called "Black Tassel Boolesque" has a few talented ladies performing on Friday and Saturday as well as one selling things during the day.

Now to get down to business..... for anyone that is interested, I will have a table at the festival and will be handing out lots of fun goodies! I will have info on friends that make and sell awesome things on etsy, business cards, and for those that happen by and get one of my business cards, they will get a 20% off discount code to use at my shop!!!!!!!! So please feel free to stop by if you are in the neighborhood!

Jim Thorpe Burlesque Festival Site

My Shop: A Ghouls Best Friend

Etsy Massacre Team, Check my team out!

Black Tassel Boolesque on Facebook