Evie's Ark, All Things Animal

Uh, what just happened?

2012-01-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

Izzy wants to know why Layla gets to sleep in the cushy chair, on the kitty quilt, and with her cat toys!

Sacramento's 2nd annual Ugliest Dog Contest!

2011-10-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

Evie's Ark will have a vendor booth of pet products at Sacramento's Ugliest Dog & Cutest Canine Contest!

This year, the event will be indoors at the Artisan Building. Vendors, artists, music, and a 4:15pm showing of John Beck & Don R. Lewis' film documentary "Worst in Show" about the annual World's Ugliest Dog Contest held in Petaluma.

Admission is $2 per person. The funds raised will benefit our local animal care service organizations.

And because it's happening on Halloween weekend, there will be a costume contest!

Sacramento's Ugliest Dog & Cutest Canine Contest
Saturday, October 29 from 4-8pm
The Artisan Building
1901 Del Paso Boulevard in Sacramento
www.ugliestdogsacramento.com

Murderous Kitten loves Deftones

2011-09-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

I arrived home from work last night to a sleepy kitten curled up on the couch pillows. My first response was to capture the peaceful moment in a photograph. But then Izzy stirred, woke up, stretched, and yawned.

I couldn't help sharing the hilarious photo with my friends. One friend remarked that he thought Izzy looks a lot like the cat on the Deftones album cover. I think he may be on to something there!

My eBay score!

2011-09-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, I posted a photo called 'Men Drinking Beer'. In this photo, one of the men is actually my biological great-great uncle, Gustaf Kujala. I found this image on the Kelley House Museum's website. And it had a related publication listed as "Early Finns of the Mendocino Coast," Mendocino Historical Review Summer 1988. I've spend some time looking for this out-of-print publication.

So today must be my lucky day because I was finally able to locate it thanks to a seller on eBay! It should arrive the first week of October. I can't wait to see what else I discover about my family!

2nd annual Bent Twig art show

2011-08-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to curate an upcoming art show and benefit fundraiser at Vox Sacramento Gallery! The "Bent Twig" art show's opening reception will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2011 from 5-9pm.

The Bent Twig art show will feature a family tree of artists helping artists - an event in which established artists are coupled with emerging artists to display their work side by side. Major and established artists from the Sacramento area are invited to participate in this art show by selecting a newer or relatively unknown artist (their "Bent Twig") to partner with and hang hanging their art next to during the run of the show, thus creating a family tree of support in the local art scene.

Also, during the evening's art show, a silent auction fundraiser will be held to benefit Vox Sacramento. As you may know, Vox just moved into their own space, so expect lots of great things to come there! Please also consider donating art work for the night’s silent auction items.

As some of you may recall, the Bent Twig art show was first held to support Danny Madsen, who a year ago lost his battle with Leukemia. Danny was such a huge supporter of the Sacramento art scene, so it is an honor to continue this art show in his name. Plans are already under way to have the Sacramento BloodSource on hand to host a mobile blood and bone marrow drive during the art show’s opening reception.

If you are interested in participating in the Bent Twig art show and the Vox fundraiser, please let me know.

Forever home needed

2011-08-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

About two months ago, my parents discovered that someone had dumped a young momma cat and her four kittens in their neighborhood. My parents have been feeding the cat family and have since moved them into a spare room in their house so that they will be safe, fed, and socialized while they are fostering them.

The four kittens will get their first round of shots today and everyone will be spayed/neutered in about a week. After they receive a clean bill of health, we will be looking for forever homes for the four kittens. My parents have decided to keep Momma Kitty. If you are interested in opening your heart and home to a kitten, please let me know.

Hungry, hungry hippos!

Momma Kitty keeps a protective eye out for her kittens.

Such pretty markings!

"You lookin' at me?"

Big stretch on a full belly!

Look at the yawning kitten in the background!

What a sweet face!

Why I cried today

2011-08-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

Today was the first time I have ever seen what my biological grandfather looked like. This photo was found among my late grandmother's genealogy research paperwork. This is John Alexander Kujala holding my father who was only about 3-months-old at the time.

Painting for Paws - Art Call

2011-08-01T16:55:00.000-07:00

The 7^th annual "Painting for Paws" fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary is scheduled for Saturday, August 20, 2011. The Happy Tails cats and dogs have been busy painting one-of-a-kind pieces of original artwork with their paws for this year’s fundraiser! Pieces will be matted and framed, and accompanied by a photo and bio of the furry artist so that you can not only buy the paws painting, but you can adopt the artist as well!

In addition, there will be "human artwork" donated by local artists, a silent auction, complimentary food and wine, live music, a prize drawing and animal-themed jewelry for sale.

If you would like to be a "human artist" for this event, please send an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com no later than August 11, 2011 and I will follow up with further details. Artists who donate to this fundraiser will receive complimentary admission to the event.

"Painting for Paws" - A Fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, August 20, 2011 from 6pm - 9pm
Dante Club – 2330 Fair Oaks Blvd. near Howe Avenue
Entrance fee: $20 to benefit Happy Tails

"Unleashed" - No stopping us now!

2011-07-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

And here's the mention of "Unleashed" in the Happy Tails e-newsletter!

"Unleashed" - We are on a roll!

2011-07-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

Here's another mention of the "Unleashed" art show! Many thanks to Downtowngrid.com for featuring Jared Konopitski's piece in their Second Saturday Art Walk promotions! Click here to see the details.

"The Bunny Who Wanted to be a Bird" by Jared Konopitski.

"Unleashed" art show mention

2011-07-08T07:39:00.000-07:00

Our upcoming "Unleashed" art show has been mentioned on A Blog from the Dog House! Click here to check it out. And does this mean that Izzy is in the doghouse?

"Unleashed" art drop off

2011-07-05T23:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the art hanging for the "Unleashed" art show. I loved seeing so many artists who are eager to support this fundraiser with their art donations - and the pieces are amazing! Here's a sneak peek of a few of the pieces of original art that you will be able to bid on.

I own quite a few pieces of Cinder's art. This new piece called "Catnip" especially makes me smile!

This piece by Cathryn Reynolds, the Happy Tails special events volunteer, is her first attemp at working with acrylics. I so love the vibrant colors!

Here is "Desert Elephant" by Maya Murphy-Cook, my high school friend's 12-year-old daughter. This will be her very first art show and I'm so humbled that she has allowed me to mentor her during the process.

This quilted wall hanging was created by Carolyn Hess, a member of the River City Quilters Guild. She's worked for several local quilt shops creating their display samples. Her work is not only warm, but her attention to detail is meticulous!

You'll be able to bid on these pieces and about 50 more at the "Unleashed" animal art show.

"Unleashed" - A Benefit for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 5pm - 9pm
Vox Sacramento Gallery located inside the ThinkHouse Collective
at 1726 11th Street at R
Free and open to the public

"Unleashed" - Saturday, July 9

2011-07-01T13:51:00.000-07:00

This fundraiser focuses on the bond between humans and animals. A silent auction of original art will benefit Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary.

"Unleashed" - A Benefit for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 5pm - 9pm
Vox Sacramento Gallery located inside the ThinkHouse Collective
at 1726 11th Street at R
Free and open to the public

Robert Jordan, all the way from Ireland, will delight listeners with his guitar, harmonica, and vocals from 6:30-7:30pm.

Featured artists: Abby - the min pin, Ann Ranlett, Betty Warmdahl, Carolyn Hess, Cathryn Reynolds, Christina Edmondson, Cinder, Evie Turner, Jared Konopitski, John vanDusen, Johnny Dismal, Karen Colbourn, Kate Dana, Kelly Elizabeth ONeill, Kim Brownell, Leslie Cobb, Lori Ann DeLappe-Grondin, Maya Murphy-Cook, Melody Claussen-Furry, Moises M. Castillo, Nicolas Caesar, Oh Boy Cat Toys, Steve Grondin, Tiffany Dare Turner, and more!

Presented by Vox Sacramento, ThinkHouse Collective, and Evie Turner Marketing.

Photo of the week - New dishwasher!

2011-06-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

Cheap labor: Izzy earns her keep by learning to do the dishes!

"Unleashed" art show hanging

2011-06-24T19:10:00.000-07:00

“Unleashed,” an animal art show benefiting Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary is scheduled for Saturday, July 9, 2011 and will feature art that focuses on the bond between humans and animals. In addition, a silent auction of original art, gift certificates, and pet related items will benefit Happy Tails.

If you would like to be a participating artist who displays their original pieces at this fundraiser, please respond no later than June 30, 2011. Your art can be of any medium and size. However, the subject of your piece must include an animal of some sort. You will be responsible for creating your own art tag for the show. Be sure to include your name, the title of your piece, the medium, price, and contact info. Artists will keep 100% of the sales for their displayed art.

Participating artist are also asked to donate a piece to the Silent Auction area as a benefit for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary. There is no limit to the number of pieces you can donate. Any size and any theme will be welcomed – the silent auction donations do not have to be animal related. Please include the following for each donated item so that I can create bid sheets:

Your name:
Name of piece/item:
Medium/Description:
Stated value:
Include a Jpeg photo of each piece for promotional purposes.

The art hanging for participating artists and silent auction donation drop off date is Tuesday, July 5 from 6:30 – 8:30pm at Vox Sacramento, 1726 11^th Street. If you do not live in the Sacramento area and would like to mail your items to my home, please let me know.

Thanks in advance for your support of the “Unleashed” art show! This fundraiser is going to be a huge success because of your involvement!

"Unleashed" - A Benefit for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 5pm - 9pm
Vox Sacramento Gallery located at 1726 11th Street at R
Free and open to the public

Presented by Vox Sacramento, ThinkHouse Collective, and Evie Turner Marketing.

"Unleashed" art show

2011-06-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

"Unleashed"

An animal art show benefitting Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary

Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 5pm - 9pm
Vox Sacramento Gallery located at 1726 11th Street at R
Free and open to the public

This fundraiser will feature art that focuses on the bond between humans and animals. The proceeds from a silent auction will benefit Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary.

If you would like to participate as an artist or make a donation of goods to this fundraiser, please send an email to eviesark@gmail.com no later than June 30.

Presented by Vox Sacramento, ThinkHouse Collective, and Evie Turner Marketing.

Call for Art - "Unleashed"

2011-06-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

When Vox Sacramento asked me to curate an art show this summer, I knew exactly what to do!

"Unleashed" is an animal art show that will benefit Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary. Held on Saturday, July 9, this art show will feature art that focuses on the bond between humans and animals. The proceeds from a silent auction will benefit local animal groups.

If you would like to be a participating artist for this fundraiser, please send an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com no later than June 30 and I will follow up with further details.

"Unleashed" - A Fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 5pm - 9pm
Vox Sacramento Gallery located at 1726 11th Street at R
Free and open to the public

See you there!

Photo of the week - Basket case

2011-05-22T20:31:00.000-07:00

Does this basket make my butt look big?

A.W.O.L. Kitten

2011-04-04T17:14:00.000-07:00

Each morning when I leave for work, I do a roll call for my cats. You know, just to make sure that nobody spends the entire day shut in the closet. And as is customary with my two, they stand by the back door to meow goodbyes to me. I'm certain that they believe me when I tell that that I'll be right back in five minutes!

But this morning, one kitty had gone A.W.O.L. And the house was eerily quiet. And that can only mean one thing - Izzy is up to no good!

I found her in the bathroom sleeping in a basket of towels, her fat furry butt hanging over the edge. That little trouble maker always makes me laugh! Even when I have to rewash all of the already clean laundry!

Available catnip toys

2011-03-01T06:07:00.000-08:00

As promised in the cat toy drive blog posting, here are a few photos of the handmade catnip toys that are currently on hand.

Each heart and star catnip measures approximately 5 inches. These fiberfill toys are light enough to be carried around by your cat and tossed up into the air for play time. They are also large enough for your cat to get a good grip on them when snuggling down for nap time. Each catnip toy is stuffed with a generous heaping of organic catnip.

Red-White Hearts.

Blue/Red Hearts (double sided).

Pink Leopard Hearts.

Blue Stars.

Red Stars.

For the kitties who are into astrology, these horoscope catnip toys measure about 4 inches by 4 inches. They feature your kitty's zodiac sign on the front and purple stars on the back. Each cat toy contains a generous helping of organic catnip!

Don't know your cat's sign? No worries! We've also created a line of catnip toys featuring the sun & moon.

These smaller toys measure about 3 inches by 3 inches and are the perfect size for smaller cat paws. There are a variety of cat characters with their own saying - Fraidy Cat, Psycho Cat, Royal Highness, Princess, and more - with bumble bee fabric on the reverse side. Each catnip toy is stuffed with organic catnip.

The above Evie's Ark catnip toys sell for $3 each. Shipping will be included in that price during this month for the Cat Toy Drive. Just send an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com with the description of the item you would like to purchase. If there is a style that you like, but want in a different color, please let me know. I'll make custom toys for your kitties. Please also stay tuned for more styles coming soon!

And remember - for every catnip toy that you purchase from Evie's Ark, I'll also donate a catnip toy to Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary!

Cat Toy Drive!

2011-02-28T07:09:00.000-08:00

Izzy's 2nd birthday is coming up on March 20. And to celebrate, I'm coordinating a cat toy drive! This fundraiser will be on behalf of Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary as my way of showing them my gratitude for blessing me with a kitten who makes me smile every day!

Here's how the cat toy drive will work. For every Evie's Ark catnip toy that I sell during the month of March, I'll match that sale one-for-one with another catnip toy donation to Happy Tails. So you buy 3 Evie's Ark catnip toys for your kitties and I'll ship those to your address - and then I'll also donate a matching 3 of my Evie's Ark catnip toys to Happy Tails. I'll keep a running tally of catnip toys for the month so that you can see how many will be donated to the rescued cats of Happy Tails.

And, you don't have to purchase one of my Evie's Ark catnip toys to participate. If you have gently used cat toys at home, feel free to ship them to me to include in the donations to Happy Tails. Any new or gently used cat toy will help to entertain the shelter's kitties. I'm also collecting towels to bathe the animals in need of grooming and blankets to offer warmth and comfort for the cats.

If you have any questions about what would be appropriate to donate, please feel free to send me an email at eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com. I'll also post a separate blog with the currently available Evie's Ark catnip toys.

Thank you in advance for your support of Happy Tails!

Love,
Evie, Zoey, and Izzy the birthday girl!

Content kitty

2011-02-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

"A little drowsing cat is an image of perfect beatitude."

~Jules Champfleury

Valentine's Day Contest

2011-02-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

I'm in the mood for a Valentine's Day contest! And here's how you can play along. Go to my Evie's Ark, All Things Animal fan page on Facebook. Look for the contest status update from today. Then leave a comment on that update telling everyone why you love your pet. On February 14, our official contest judge, Izzy, will choose a number to correspond with a comment. That winner will receive a set of three Evie's Ark catnip toys like the one featured in the photo below. Good luck!

My name is Izzy and I'm a lush

2011-01-20T21:29:00.000-08:00

I came home tonight to find the kitten face passed out next to the wine rack. So this is what goes on when I'm at work all day!

Men drinking beer

2011-01-04T12:01:00.000-08:00

In researching my father's biological side of the family, I came across this gem of a photo on a website for a Mendocino museum! My great-grandfather's brother, Gustaf Kujala, seated right.

Description: Four men posing in a studio photograph with beer bottles and glasses. Only two are identified on the right as Alex Sissala (standing) and Gus Kujala (seated).

Caption: Men drinking beer.

Credit line: Kelley House Photographs Archives

Date: Unknown

Related Publications: "Early Finns of the Mendocino Coast," Mendocino Historical Review Summer 1988

To see the original image, click here.

Photo of the week - Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

Post Thanksgiving food coma: Izzy sleeps it off in front of the heater.

Sacramento Police photo

2010-11-05T13:47:00.000-07:00

While researching my family, I came across the Sacramento Public Library's Online Digital Collection. I typed in a family name and was met with this photo!

Title: Sacramento Police Officer Frank Boniface

Date: 1918

Description: Sacramento City Police Officer Frank Boniface poses with a child on his knee in this circa 1918 photograph.

Collection: Sacramento Room Photograph Collection

This c.1918 photo is of my great-grandfather, Sacramento Motorcycle Police Officer Frank Boniface. He and my great-grandmother Veda, who passed away my senior year of high school, adopted my grandmother when her biological family left her in the hospital at only two months of age. My great-grandparent's house, which is currently owned by my uncle, backed up to the original Fairground property which bordered Oak Park.

Click here to see the original image.

Election results

2010-11-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

Izzy voted and the results are in... ice cream for dinner!

Photo of the week - Fall is here

2010-10-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

I want to make a jack-o-lantern of the expression on Izzy's face!

Halloween catnip toys are back!

2010-10-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, I made some catnip toys in the shape of triangles and from Halloween fabric. And they sold like gangbusters! And each October, I get repeated requests to bring back these Halloween catnip toys. So back by popular demand, may I present the Halloween triangle catnip toy!

Each toy measures approximately 3 inches. The shape makes it easy for your cat to toss the triangle up into the air and around the room. Zoey likes to do the bunny kick on hers!

Each Halloween triangle toy is stuffed with a generous heaping of organic catnip. Zoey approves of this catnip. And she doesn't want to share with her sad-faced sister.

The Halloween triangle catnip toys will be available for purchase at this Saturday's Ugliest Dog Contest & Cutest Canine Pageant.

Happy Tails Tour

2010-10-04T18:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday evening, I went to the Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary for a meeting. While there, I took the opportunity to show two friends the facility. Along the way, I snapped a few photos of the feline residents.

There are three large glass enclosed rooms at the Sanctuary. The cats are divided into groups by age. As you walk by each room, the cats either greet you at the glass walls or the metal screen doors. This little guy kind of reminds me of Yoda!

We began in the senior room where the cats are ages 8 and older. I really, really wanted to take this old man kitty home with me and just let him sleep out the rest of his golden years on my couch! He even made old man snoring noises!

We then moved to the general population room which housed about 25 cats in a cage-free environment. This free-roaming area allows you an opportunity to see how the cats interact with each other and it gives you a sense of how they will act in their natural environment. It is much easier to get a feel for their personality in this setting, rather than with each animal just shoved in a confining cage.

The cats who live at Happy Tails are at least a year old, while the kittens are fostered in homes. I loved this spunky and playful girl! And my favorite thing about her - the hair between her toes was so long that it curled around her feet when she stood up!

Just chillin'.

We laughed at this cat who hogged three food bowls to himself! And the funniest thing - he didn't eat directly from the bowl; instead he scooped the canned food out with his paw and then licked the food from between his toes! I wonder if he realizes that is the same foot that was in the litterbox...

Ilsa made a new friend in Chi, a kitty who had an upper-respiratory illness. This outgoing kitty is now in one of the private recovery rooms until she can get over her cold.

When we went to leave, several cats gathered at the door as if to say, "I'm going with you!"

If you are interested in adopting a Happy Tails kitty, please visit their website at www.happytails.org.

Photo of the week - Causing trouble

2010-10-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

Izzy likes to spend the afternoon sitting on her kitty scratching post and watching out the front window. I had originally thought that she was just trying to keep up with the happenings of the birds and squirrels in her front yard.

But I've come to discover that she is making faces and sticking her tongue out at strangers as they walk by!

Say no to drugs!

2010-10-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

This is your brain.
This is your brain on drugs.
This is my cat's brain on catnip!

Cracked out Izzy supervises the making of catnip toys by guarding the 1-pound bag of catnip!

Pet Halloween Costume Contest!

2010-10-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Ding! I love it when the clock strikes October 1st! That means it's officially Halloween month! And anyone who is a friend of mine knows that Halloween is my favorite holiday. And what better way to combine my love of Halloween festivities and of animals than to have a Pet Halloween Costume Contest? Here's how it will work:

Go grab your camera. Now dress your pet in a silly, scary, or unusual Halloween costume and snap a photo. And by pet, I mean a dog, cat, hamster, iguana, or parrot - any species at all. There's no discrimination here!
Next, email a photo of your costumed pet to me at eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com with "Halloween Costume" in the subject line. Include your name and your pet's name, as well as a brief description of your pet.
I will then upload the Pet Halloween Costume photos into an album on my Evie's Ark, All Things Animal fan page on Facebook.
Now, the fun begins! Encourage your friends to "vote" for your costumed pet! And the pet who receives the most number of "likes" on their photo will win a customized pet pillow from Evie's Ark!
The winner will be announced on the Monday after Halloween.

Your pet could win a customized Evie's Ark pet pillow like the ones featured in this photo!

Here's Zoey rocking a rainbow clown mullet wig last Halloween. This cat is all business in the front and a party in the back!

Happy Halloween from my pets to yours!

Sacramento is going to the dogs!

2010-09-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

Sacramento is "Going To The Dogs" on October 9th with the 1st Annual Sacramento's Ugliest Dog Contest & Cutest Canine Pageant! And I'm over the top with excitement that Evie's Ark, All Things Animal has been invited to be a vendor! I'll have a booth with my favorite dog and cat products available for sale.

Ribbons, trophies, and cash prizes will be awarded to the Ugliest and the Cutest! Free hot dogs will be provided by Top Dawg Restaurant. Pet-themed vendors and artists will have their works available for sale. Animal organization information tables and mobile units will be onsite.

Sponsored by Top Dawg Restaurant and the Del Paso Boulevard Partnership, this community event will promote awareness and benefit our local animal service organizations such as the Sacramento SPCA, Puppy Love Rescue, City of Sacramento Animal Care Services, and Sacramento Area Animal Coalition.

Sacramento's Ugliest Dog Contest & Cutest Canine Pageant
Saturday, October 9 from 4-8pm
The Greens Hotel
1700 Del Paso Boulevard
Sacramento, CA

For further information, please visit the Sacramento's Ugliest Dog Contest & Cutest Canine Pageant website.

Photo of the week - Lazy days

2010-09-26T22:13:00.000-07:00

After all of the hard work that went into the Celebration of Life Event for my friend Danny and the Happy Tails Painting for Paws fundraiser yesterday, I felt like I deserved a day of absolutely nothing! On the agenda: sleep in, take a nap, eat some junk food, watch dumb TV, and go to bed. The cats also had the same idea...

"Painting for Paws" is almost here!

2010-09-20T20:05:00.000-07:00

The "human art" has been turned in, the cat and dog paintings are being framed, and gift baskets are being assembled. The final details for the Happy Tails "Painting for Paws" fundraiser are almost complete!

This annual fundraiser is always a favorite of the supporters of Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary. And here's what you can expect this year. Nearly 40 pieces of art valued at more than $3,000 were donated by local California artists. More than 60 pieces of art were created by cat and dog paws and tails. The animal paintings will be auctioned off this year, rather than a flat purchase price as has been done in the past. So get your bids in before 8pm when that art section closes! And gift baskets, and jewelry, and wine - oh my! It's going to be a fun night!

"Painting for Paws" - A Fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, September 25, 2010 from 6pm - 10pm
Pavilions Shopping Center, Fair Oaks Blvd., Near Howe Ave.
Entrance fee: $10 to benefit Happy Tails

A special thank you goes out to the following animal lovers and artists who generously donated to this fundraiser. You make my job so easy and I'm forever grateful!

Ann Tracy
Carlos Villez
Carolyn Hess
Cinder
Evie Turner
Gayle Rappaport-Weiland
Ilsa Hess
Jacquelyn Bond
Jared Konopitski
Juli Nocita
Kate Dana
Kelly Croisdale
Kelly Elizabeth O'Neill
Kim Scott
KimJMartin Dog Photography
Leslie Cobb
Nancy Bradley
Nicolas Caesar
Priya Ramchandran
Stacey Lamothe
Tiffany Dare Turner
Tj Lev
Yelena Kopylov-Alford

"Homeless No More" cat paw painting.

"Hakofish" created by Cinder.

Silent auction goodies.

Photo of the week - Crabby kitty!

2010-09-19T16:53:00.001-07:00

This is the crabby look I got from Izzy for not only coming home late, but for smelling like kisses from a friend's dogs.

The art is arriving!

2010-09-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at a few of the pieces of art that were dropped off for the "Painting for Paws" fundraiser!

"Asswipe!" by Tiffany Turner.

"Black Grey" by Priya Ramchandran.

"Feline Groovey" sterling and copper pendant by Stacey Lamothe.

"Old Crow" by Kim Scott.

"Look Behind You!" by Jared Konopitski.

I'm having such a difficult time deciding on which piece is my favorite!

Call For Artists - Danny Madsen Celebration of Life Event

2010-09-01T07:11:00.000-07:00

On August 11, 2010, we lost a beloved friend. For more than 10 months, Danny Madsen fought a hard battle with Leukemia. He passed away quietly on that Wednesday afternoon with his wife Michele by his side. Danny's drive to beat his cancer is an inspiration to all of us to persevere in our lives.

To celebrate Danny's life, his wife Michele invites you to attend a memorial celebration in his honor on Saturday, September 25 from 1-6pm at Beatnik Studios, located at 17th and Broadway. The tribute will feature music, food and beverages, and a silent auction of art. Proceeds from the evening will be raised on behalf of Danny and Michele Madsen and the National Transplant Assistance Fund.

To donate art to the Danny Madsen Celebration of Life Event, please contact Evie Turner at eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com by September 11 for further details.

Thank you.

"Painting for Paws" artist deadline is approaching!

2010-08-26T20:07:00.000-07:00

The 6th annual "Painting for Paws" fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary is scheduled for Saturday, September 25, 2010 and will highlight the art created by the cats and dogs of the sanctuary. In addition, there will be "human artwork," a silent auction, complimentary food & wine, a prize drawing and animal-themed jewelry for sale.

If you would like to be a "human artist" for this event, please respond with an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com no later than September 7, 2010 with the following information for the event materials. And artists who donate art to this fundraiser will receive complimentary admission to the event!

Your name:
Email:
# of art pieces:
For each piece, list -
Name of piece:
Medium:
Dimensions:
Value:
Include a Jpeg photo of each piece.

There is no limit to the number of pieces you can donate. Any size and any theme will be welcomed. However, animal related art is always very popular at this fundraiser. Please note that all art work must be to me no later than Tuesday, September 7, 2010. I will hold a drop off time on September 2 and September 7. If those dates are not convenient, you can also mail your art to me prior to the deadline. Contact me for further details.

This event is so near and dear to my heart and I hope that you'll participate. I adopted Zoey while covering this story for a local TV program. So thank you very much in advance for considering a donation to the Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary "Painting for Paws" fundraiser. This event is going to be a huge success because of your support!

"Painting for Paws" - A Fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, September 25, 2010 from 6pm - 10pm
Pavilions Shopping Center, Fair Oaks Blvd., Near Howe Ave.
Entrance fee: $10 to benefit Happy Tails

Zoey's painting created in 2009. She used her tail and her paws.

Izzy's painting created in 2009. She needed an entire bath after this masterpiece!

You had me at, "Mew."

2010-08-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

You'll recall that last summer, I went to the Happy Tails Kitten Adopt-A-Thon and fell madly in love when I brought home Izzy. Well, now is your chance to do the same!

Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary will hold its Kitten Adopt-A-Thon this Saturday, August 28 from 10am to 2pm at Extra Space Storage located at 30th & B Street in East Sacramento. All available kittens, ages 12 weeks to six months, will be spayed/neutered, tested, vaccinated and microchipped. The adoption fee is $50 per kitten or $60 for a pair. Bring the family out for refreshments and fun giveaways — and maybe take home a new furry family member!

For more information, visit the Happy Tails websit e.

Call for artists - "Painting for Paws"

2010-07-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

The annual "Painting for Paws" fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary is scheduled for Saturday, September 25, 2010. The Happy Tails cats and dogs have been busy painting one-of-a-kind pieces of original artwork with their paws for this year’s fundraiser! Pieces will be matted and framed, and accompanied by a photo and bio of the furry artist so that you can not only buy the paws painting, but you can adopt the artist as well!

In addition, there will be "human artwork" donated by local artists, a silent auction, complimentary food and wine, live music, a prize drawing and animal-themed jewelry for sale.

If you would like to be a "human artist" for this event, please send an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com no later than August 14, 2010 and I will follow up with further details. Artists who donate to this fundraiser will receive complimentary admission to the event.

"Painting for Paws" - A Fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Saturday, September 25, 2010 from 6pm - 10pm
Pavilions Shopping Center, Fair Oaks Blvd., Near Howe Ave.
Entrance fee: $10 to benefit Happy Tails

Zoey and Izzy – both Happy Tails success stories!

Zoey and Izzy - yin yang kitties!

Founded in 1993, Happy Tails rescues abandoned, abused and unwanted companion animals in the Sacramento area, and finds them safe, permanent, loving homes. All proceeds from the event will benefit Happy Tails, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. www.happytails.org.

Vox Sacramento's "She" art show

2010-04-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to be a part of this upcoming benefit art show!

Vox Sacramento presents its 3rd annual women's show, "She." This Second Saturday art show, hosted by Byuti Salon located at 1414 H Street in Downtown Sacramento, will be held on May 8 from 6-10 pm and is a benefit for the Sacramento Komen Foundation. "She" showcases female artists from Sacramento and the Bay Area.

"She" features Vox Sacramento artist members: Meagan Moore, Amelia Lewis , Susan Raines, Dawn Blanchfield, Lala Ortiz, Elaine Hudson, Evie Turner, Nicole Roberts, Jill Allyn Stafford, Kathy Blackburn, Deborah Brown, Hilda Tonarely, Kim Brownell, Rachel Young, Ilsa Hess, and Jamie Castaneda.

In addition to the art that will be up for the month of May at Byuti Salon, there will also be artists showing for the evening of the opening reception only. These artists include Laura McCall, Gayle Rappaport-Weiland, Angela Saldana, Erica Yoshino, Brenda Rios, Yelena Kopylov-Alford, Juli Nocita, Joslyn Newens, Heather Shetrawski, and Virginia Dorman, among others.

Artists Jamie Castaneda and Jared Konopitski will create live art that evening. Music includes live performances by Reggie Ginn and others and will begin at 7 pm. Also, a raffle of original art and other items will be held to benefit the Sacramento Komen Foundation. All proceeds go toward Komen. This art show is free to attend and open to the public.

As a part of this fundraiser for the Sacramento Komen Foundation, Vox Sacramento will be walking in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on the morning of May 8. You can support this cause by joining me and the Vox Walk Team or making a donation through my personal page here.

Thank you for your support and I hope to see you on May 8!

Run for your life!

2010-02-22T19:38:00.000-08:00

I arrived at home from work this evening to discover that my suspicions are in fact true! Zoey and Izzy are Zombie Cats!

Photo of the week - Love is in the air!

2010-02-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Love,
Zoey & Izzy
and Evie's Ark, All Things Animal

"Let Me Count the Ways" art show

2010-02-05T18:48:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to participate in Vox Sacramento's upcoming Second Saturday art show "Let Me Count the Ways." This art show is a benefit for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund and will feature music by The Kimberly Trip, Kevin Seconds, and David Houston.

Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 6-10pm
Vox Sacramento at 1931 H Street in Midtown
Live music begins at 7pm
Free and open to the public

Original artwork by more than 35 local artists will be on display. Featured artists include: Jill Allyn Stafford, Dawn Blanchfield, Amy Fort, Christian Cinder, Elizabeth Wocasek, Evie Turner, Krissi Sandvik, Kathy Blackburn, TJ Lev, Jill Matsuhiro, Justin Buell, Susan Raines, Rachel Young, Long Lim, Jennifer Young, Tom Spaulding, Terry Tyson, Catherin Thomas, Andrionni Ribo, Jenvy Fox, Jerome Love, Hilda Tonarely, Michael Perry, Lawrence Rillera, Michele Whitnack, Elaine Shaefer Hudson, Lob, April Fredrikson, Juliana Pfeffer, Tony Allen, Lala, Danielle Searcy, and more.

Guests can also enter a drawing for a chance to win original art or an iPod Touch. Proceeds benefit the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, which provides financial assistance to all types of career musicians with illness, disability, or age-related problems.

The art will be on display through March 8, 2010.

Kitten - the other white meat

2009-12-28T20:26:00.000-08:00

I decided to take advantage of the quiet in the house this afternoon to knock out a good chunk on a client project. While working away, it suddenly occurred to me that the house was a little too quiet. And no noise equals no good. And no good equals my cats. A quick check to the bedroom produced a sleepy Zoey napping. That only left one option - Izzy!

As I walked into the kitchen, I immediately stopped in my tracks. And then I yelled, "What the Hell!" Actually I used another curse word, but I'm trying to keep it somewhat PG here. And then instantly I knew what had to be done - grab the camera!

No, this photo was not staged. Yes, she's cute, but not that bright. No, no cats were harmed in the making of this photo. And yes, she's lucky that I'm vegetarian!

Operation Underground Railroad Secret Santa Kitten Rescue

2009-12-26T12:52:00.001-08:00

My assignment should I choose to accept it (cue Mission: Impossible music here) - to covertly hide the world's cutest kitten in my house for two days and then ultimately return her to Santa's sneaky elf so that the kitten can be given to a lucky, little girl on Christmas morning.

So my friend Jill had been planning this covert operation for some time. And when she came to my craft faire at Beatnik Studios and told me of her plan - and the complications that it involved with the SPCA being closed at Christmas - I wondered how I could help. Jill's daughter Lily wanted her very own kitty. And what better surprise than to have Santa deliver one on Christmas morning! But the SPCA was closing early on Christmas Eve and wouldn't be open again until after Christmas. So Jill would have to adopt a kitten and then figure out where to hide it until Christmas. And that's when she asked me to join the inner lair of Secret Santa Kitten Rescue. Well, truth be told - I think I actually blurted out, "We can hide her at my house!" Yeah, I'm a sucker for a sweet, little fur ball! So that's what we did.

When Jill dropped off Secret Santa Kitten on day one, the little one was still groggy from her spay surgery earlier that day. So I tucked her into the heated cat bed with her new baby blanket. She slept for there several hours with me petting her every once in a while to see if she would wake up.

When Secret Santa Kitten finally did awake from her long catnap, she was hungry! I put some of her crunchies in a bowl and she chowed down! Here's a photo of my fat cats Zoey and Izzy supervising to make sure that the kitten does it right!

After eating, the kitten needed another nap. Yeah, I tend to do that after a big meal, too. Here's the little one sleeping on the couch next to Zoey. Yeah, Zoey is the raddest cat ever!

After the second nap, Secret Santa Kitten ate her dinner. She has impeccable manners and made sure to wipe the crumbs from her mouth afterwards!

That night, I went to bed and woke up with three kitties snuggled down for warmth. It was a little slice of Heaven!

On day two, Secret Santa Kitten actually wore out Zoey and Izzy with all of her frisky playing! She batted this orange mouse around on the wood floors for about four hours.

Then she moved onto one of Izzy's favorite toys and swatted at this spinning mouse for some time. At one point, she couldn't see where the mouse was hidden in the toy and started looking around the coffee table for it!

She then joined the already exhausted Zoey and Izzy for a nap on the dining room chairs in front of the heater.

Here, she has discovered an Evie's Ark, All Things Animal catnip toy! She may have a future as one of my newest spokescats!

She poses in a Santa hat while I explain that she will soon go to her forever home with a happy, little girl who will love her very much.

Secret Santa Kitten has already fallen in love with her big cousin Zoey and has a little temper tantrum about leaving her. Or perhaps she was just yawning. We may need to arrange for play dates in the future!

One Christmas Eve, Jill came over to pick up the Secret Santa Kitten. While I was sad to see the frisky fur ball leave, I know that she will make a very magical memory for a little girl who will always remember this Christmas.

Mission accomplished.

Update: Lily loves her new kitten and named her Cookie.

Santa's Little Helper

2009-12-24T15:18:00.000-08:00

Zoey is pooped from helping out in Santa's workshop making catnip toys for all the good, little kitties in the world!

Happy Holidays from Evie's Ark, All Things Animal!

Home for the Holidays art show

2009-12-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to be one of the participating artists in the upcoming "Home for the Holidays" art show at Vox Sacramento! I'll have the following new pieces on display during the December Second Saturday Art Walk.

"Soul Mates" is based on the pair of mourning doves who nibble for food in my dewy backyard each day. I enjoy the soothing sounds of their cooing while I sit on my back patio drinking coffee. Acrylic on canvas. Measures 11 x 14.

"Family Reunion" was inspired by a conversation that occurred during a road trip from South Carolina to Florida with my mom. Whenever we saw a group of birds gathered along the telephone wires, my mom would shout out, "Look! It's a family reunion!" Acrylic on canvas. Measures 8 x 10.

"One" was inspired after a recent journal entry. One lone bird sits upon an old and barren tree. And while there is sadness at that exact moment, the rising sun sheds light on a new beginning. Acrylic on canvas. Measures 11 x 14.

"Proud." This wintery cardinal is happy that it's almost Christmas! Acrylic on canvas. Measures 8 x 10.

This reunion art show will be held on Saturday, December 12, 2009 from 5-10pm and will feature many of the artists who have shown at Vox since its inception. And for the art collectors, this is a great opportunity to get a deal on some original art for those on your holiday gift giving list! Also, proceeds from a silent auction/drawing that evening will raise funds to support Vox and the work that they do in our art community.

Photo of the week - Peeping Tom

2009-11-01T12:16:00.000-08:00

I am one step closer to uncovering the identity of the peeping tom who watches me shower every morning!

Photo of the week - There's no place like home!

2009-10-18T17:58:00.000-07:00

Halloween is right around the corner, so a friend and I headed to Evangeline's in Old Sacramento to look at costumes. Old Sac was a crazy mess of tourists and horse-drawn carriages. Evangeline's was even worse with pushy wanna-be teenagers looking for trampy costumes. Disappointed, we decided to try our luck elsewhere. Upon returning to the car, which we had to park on the roof of the garage, we stopped to admire Old Sac from up above the chaos. And I'm thankful we did.

The golden Tower Bridge in the City of Trees.

Old Sac restaurants, tug boats on the water, and the Ziggurat building on the skyline.

Photo of the week - Stickin' it to the man!

2009-10-11T17:47:00.000-07:00

This is what Izzy thinks of the PG&E bill! I couldn't agree with her more!

"Sisters," newest art

2009-10-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a peek at a new piece that I just created and will donate to the Pit Bull awareness fundraiser on October 10, 2009. "Sisters" is based on my dog Betsy, who was by far the best dog that a little girl could have while growing up!

When I was very small, family friends would comment to my mom about how much she and my little brother looked alike with their blond hair and green eyes. Then they would look at me with my red hair and blue eyes and say nothing! After developing a huge complex, I did what any normal 5-year-old would do and started telling people that my parents had kidnapped me! So after several parent-teacher conferences, many conversations about how red hair is a recessive gene, and a quick trip to the pet store for someone who looked a little more like me, I decided to stay with this family.

I'll always remember the ride home from the pet store in our brown station wagon holding this tiny, squirmy ball of puppy breath and telling her that her name is Betsy. My dad explained to me that I shouldn't call her Betsy just yet because she might get used to her new name on the ride home, even though it was only a 5-minute drive. And if we all decided to call her by another name, the puppy would then be confused. But I wouldn't listen.

Betsy turned out to not be just a dog, but instead became a member of our family. My mom always laughed when I would roll the dog over on her back and dig through the hair on her stomach. Apparently, I was looking for the zipper because I knew that she was really a person inside that fur coat! I also gave Betsy my middle name because I imagined that's what a big sister would do. Betsy and I spent countless hours of my childhood digging a large hole in the backyard in order to get to China, reading Encyclopedia Brown mysteries together by flashlight in our blanket fort, and sharing a bowl of popcorn while watching Saturday morning cartons.

Betsy lived a long and happy life and died in my mom's arms at the age of 18-years-old. And while there have been countless other dogs since her, Betsy will always be my first love. Red heads share a bond that can never be broken.

In honor of Betsy's memory, this piece will be donated as a silent auction item to the "Pits and Fash" Fashion and Trunk Show Fundraiser promoting the documentary, "Beyond the Myth." The benefit will be held on Saturday, October 10 at 7pm at the Retro Lodge located at 1111 H Street.

Call For Artists - Byron Blackburn Celebration of Life Event

2009-09-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

On September 18, 2009, we lost a beloved friend. Byron Blackburn fought a fierce battle with Sarcoma, and he always said that he had cancer, but that cancer did not have him. Byron's brave spirit and his kind soul touched so many of us. His passion for music had a monumental impact on our community. And his love of the arts was obvious in his support of the Second Saturday art scene.

To celebrate Byron's life, his wife Kathy will host a public memorial service on October 16 at Beatnik Studios, located at 17th and Broadway. The tribute will feature performances by local musicians and a silent auction of art. Proceeds from the evening will be used to set up a scholarship fund for a local music charity in Byron's name.

To donate art to the Byron Blackburn Celebration of Life Event, please contact Evie Turner at eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com by October 5 for further details.

Thank you.

Dogs. Treat equal.

2009-09-25T00:45:00.000-07:00

This video truly moved me with its powerful message.

Trick or treat?

2009-09-23T23:24:00.000-07:00

So my neighbor bought a Halloween clown wig for her cat. And when she asked me if I wanted to try it on Zoey...well, who am I to deny my cat the right to celebrate pagan holidays? Afterall, Halloween is everyone's favorite holiday in our household!

May I present you you: Zoey, the mullet-clown-feline! She's all business in the front and a party in the back!

PS - I fear that Zoey may try to suffocate me tonight while I am sleeping.

Afternoon delight!

2009-09-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

It's only occasionally that my house is completely silent. This afternoon was one of those rare times. I immediately knew that the cats were up to something sneaky. So I quietly tip toed around the house hoping to catch them in the act of their something troublesome. And when I entered the bedroom, this is what I discovered!

I'll take some catnap spoonin' over their normal laps around the house like a herd of buffalo stampeding any day!

Back to the work grind

2009-09-21T22:05:00.000-07:00

Monday at 8am:
I'm in your brief case and ready to go to the office, Mommy!

Monday at 9pm:
Whew - Monday kicked my ass!

Photo of the week - Paparazzi

2009-09-20T17:53:00.000-07:00

Please! No more with the paparazzi photos! I need my privacy!

"The Girl Who Cried Love, " a new art piece

2009-09-10T12:24:00.000-07:00

Here's a new piece that I have wanted to work on for some time now, but somehow just couldn't bring myself to do it. "The Girl Who Cried Love" was created after my greatest heartbreak - the second of two over a period of 17 years by the same man.

The words on her dress are actually from a cut out of a love letter that I wrote to him, but never sent. I felt that it was more important for me to write the letter, and get the words on paper so that the feelings were no longer trapped inside me. The bottom edge of the canvas reads: I will always love you. Just turn my key.

Time does heal all wounds, or so they say. My broken heart just took a little longer than expected to mend itself.

"The Girl Who Cried Love" is acrylic on wrapped canvas and measures 11" x 14". This piece will be available at Side Show's Friend and Family art show on September 12, 2009.

An open letter to Banana Bread

2009-09-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Banana Bread,

You've been there for me for most of my life. Through the good times and the bad times, through the heartbreak and the hunger pains. You've been my source of comfort, right behind ice cream of course. Yes, we've had our ups and downs. But time after time, you've come to be my trusty stand-by. And for that, I am thankful.

But there comes a time in a girl's life when the regular ho-hum just won't do. Call it a mid-life crisis if you will. Please be assured that it's me and not you. I will always cherish the smell of your soothing aroma wafting from my oven, but feel the need to explore other options. I know that our paths will cross again. And I hope that you will always hold safe our dear memories together.

Love,
me

And now I present you with Banana Blueberry Muffins! Yumm-o!

Banana Blueberry Muffin Recipe
Makes 12 muffins

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
2/3 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup mashed over-ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
1 egg
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp orange zest
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup fresh blueberries

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray muffin cups with a non-stick spray. I like to use unique muffin pans, rather than the typical round kind. I think it makes the muffins taste better! But back to the recipe. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a smaller bowl, mix the mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, orange zest, and walnuts. Stir the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until blended, but make sure not to overmix. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle a generous pinch of sugar onto the tops of each muffin. This gives the muffin a crystallized crunchiness on the top. Bake muffins until tops are pale golden color and a toothpick inserted into center comes out clean, about 30 minutes. Transfer the muffins to a rack to cool. Or you can be a pig like I was and eat them warm right out of the oven. Enjoy!

Photo of the week - Sew very naughty!

2009-08-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

I can helpz you sewz de catnip toyz, Momma?

Tested and approved!

2009-08-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Izzy is the newest spokescat for Evie's Ark, All Things Animal organic catnip toys!

Photo of the week - Dinner time!

2009-08-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

Kitten: it's what's for dinner!

Photo of the week - BBQ time!

2009-08-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

Izzy has good taste in beer! She approves of Blue Moon for the 3rd annual G-spot summertime BBQ!

Photo of the week - Best friends

2009-08-02T15:38:00.000-07:00

This just melts my heart!

Photo of the week - Nap junkie

2009-07-26T15:34:00.000-07:00

Because you can never nap too much!

Photo of the week - TV junkie

2009-07-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

Izzy also loves the show about nothing!

Photo of the week - Ninja Kitten!

2009-07-12T10:39:00.001-07:00

"If you take one more photo of me, I'll assassinate you with my warrior skills!"
~Izzy, Ninja Kitten

Yoga for felines

2009-07-08T21:51:00.000-07:00

Zoey does yoga! She calls this pose "Downward Cat." Om......

Photo of the week - No cavities!

2009-06-28T15:46:00.000-07:00

Izzy looked so sweet sleeping in her kitty bed with her green and orange mouse. I immediately grabbed the camera so that I could capture the precious moment. But then she yawned!

How I fell madly in love!

2009-06-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the Happy Tails Kitten Adopt-A-Thon, which I had been looking forward to for many months. I had been thinking about adding another cat to the family, but didn't want to bring home just any kitten. I wanted to make sure that I had the perfect match for Zoey's spunky personality. So a friend and I headed over to the Adopt-A-Thon event a half hour before it started. And when we got there, the room was already packed with people snatching kittens out of cages and furiously filling out adoption papers! It was beautiful chaos!

The small lobby of the storage company was packed with wire cages filled with nearly 50 kittens. I saw a sweet little tortie kitten that reminded me of my first cat Taz. I also spotted an all-white kitten with one blue eye and one green eye! Then my heart skipped a beat when I saw a fuzzy gray and white kitten with green eyes. She shared a cage with 5 tuxedo boy kittens who were swinging from the top of the cage like monkeys. She calmly took it all in stride. And I knew I had my new kitten.

Meet Isadora, or Izzy for short.

Izzy stakes her claim on the cat bed. Zoey settles for the king sized comforter.

Sisters.

And the best news - all 49 of the kittens that were available for adoption found forever homes with permanent families!

Kitten Adopt-A-Thon!

2009-06-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

It’s “kitten season” and animal shelters are overrun with kittens needing loving, permanent homes! So Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary will hold a Kitten Adopt-A-Thon this Saturday! The event will be held at Extra Space Storage located at 30th & B Street in East Sacramento from 10am - 4pm. Bring the family out for refreshments and fun giveaways — and maybe take home a new furry family member!

Who thinks that Zoey needs a little sister?

For more information about Happy Tails, visit their website. Meows!

Arrgh, mateys!

2009-06-09T17:25:00.000-07:00

"Feed me some cat treats grub, or I'll make ye walk the plank!"
~Cap'n Zoey

She: an all-female art show

2009-06-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder about my upcoming art show. Hope you'll stop by Vox's new location to celebrate their grand re-opening with an all-female art show! In addition to the amazing art by so many talented women, there will be live music by Reggie Ginn and Ricky Berger. And this show will benefit the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. See you there!

Vox Gallery
Saturday, June 13 from 5-10pm
20th and H Streets in Sacramento

Why my quilting mom is a rock star!

2009-06-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was thrilled to discover that my mom's "Tattoo Girl" quilt was featured in the Quilt Beauty online gallery! Mom is thrilled!

The image on the website links back to my blog entry "Like Mother, Like Daughter" where I wrote about the fabric challenge that mom and I did when we created our tattoo inspired quilts. And here's the image caption on the Quilt Beauty website: Quilted by Evie's Ark's mom. Isn't that sweet? Even though her name is Gale, you can all still call her Mom!

Mom's "Tattoo Girl" art quilt was on display at Side Show Studios' Second Saturday Art Walks for the March "Tattoo" art show and the April "Textiles" art show. You can next see this stunning quilt at the River City Quilters' Guild annual show in November. And you'll also be able to meet my rock star mom then, too!

Photo of the week - Ding! Your time is up!

2009-05-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

So while in San Francisco yesterday, I came upon this sight - a permanent porta-potty! At first I thought it was a genius idea. I mean really, if you can cut down on public urination on sidewalks and building facades, then you're surely on to something.

But as I got closer and saw the sign on the side of the porta-potty, I had second thoughts about how great of an idea it truly was.

A 20-minute maximum limit?!? Um, ew! So what happens if someone reaches the 20 minute limit? Suddenly, I had a vision of a loud warning bell ringing, the porta-potty door swinging wildly open, and a man with his pants down around his ankles being booted out upon the sidewalk!

Thankfully, I always take Mom's advice: Hit the bathroom before you leave the house!

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T22:57:00.000-07:00

On this Memorial Day, I give thanks to those who have fought for our country, our freedom, and our rights. I also take time to remember those who have gone before us.

I wish that my all of my grandparents were still alive so that I could tell them how much I love them and miss them. Now, go kiss the ones you love and hold them tight. Not only today, but always.

Photo of the week - Set in stone

2009-05-24T19:42:00.000-07:00

While on a walk, I came across this message written in the sidewalk. It reads, "It's getting worse and you're not HELPING! 2002."

I wonder who carved these words into the wet concrete. What was the terrible situation that is now permanently recorded in stone? Did this plea get the writer the help that was so desperately needed back in 2002? I need to know the answers to these questions! Not knowing is like reading an entire novel only to find out that someone has torn out the last five pages! What happened!?!

What do you think?

Handmade Parade fun!

2009-05-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

This morning I got up early, headed over to my friend Janeen's place to pick up her and her cup of coffee, and then we were off to Handmade Parade! And how fun is this photo? A room full of crafty goods! Vendors lined the outside of the large room and craft demos and make 'n' takes ran down the center of the room.

One of the first vendors that we saw was Katie Jean! Katie has been on a circus themed fabric kick lately and she made these really cute baby sets with her new fabric finds. All of her handmade goodies are vintage inspired and I just can't get enough of them! I would give up ice cream to be able to spend one afternoon fabric shopping in her studio!

Next, we ran into The Tin Thimble, a sewing store located in Newcastle. They were setting up to do a fleece dying demo and had several stunning pieces of felted creations on display. I have yet to visit their store, but I'm already planning my road trip!

Here's Jessica of Outro Designs. Her handbags are created with vintage fabric and estate sale finds. Aren't they some of the coolest purses you've ever seen? She's another one that I want to go fabric shopping with!

I was thrilled to see my Craft Mafia sister, Rain of Rain's Embellishments! She lives and breathes beads and it shows in her stunning works! I own several of her glass fused necklaces and always get compliments whenever I wear them.

And last, but certainly not least, the woman behind the curtain - Claire! Handmade Parade is her baby and she did an amazing job putting this crafty event together. Everything went smoothly, there was a huge variety of vendors, and everyone in attendance was shopping, shopping, shopping!

Speaking of shopping, check out these yummy fabrics that I purchased from Claire's booth! They are vintage sheets! Isn't she a genius? I already have something in mind for them, too!

The cat's in the cradle...

2009-05-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

...and the silver spoon.
Little boy blue and the man 'n the moon.

So I've been on a hunt lately. My search for the perfect shelving unit has been relentless for many weeks. You see, I'm turning my front sunroom into an art studio! So in my effort to become obsessively organized, I began my search for the perfect solution to storing fabric, craft supplies, and canvases. I've looked high and low at the usual suspects - Target, Office Depot, IKEA, but was only left dissatisfied.

So while on the way home from a client meeting earlier this week, I made a short detour to the local Goodwill store. And that's where I came across this little gem! I figure I can sand down and refinish this baby doll cradle and paint it so that it has that kitschy feel I so want. What a perfect solution for storing fat quarters and other sewing notions! And the best part - when I got to the counter and flashed a smile at the cashier, he gave me the "furniture discount" and this catch cost me only $5!

I brought my new find home and set it down in the dining room. And that's when Zoey happened!

I had the best intentions with this baby doll cradle, but it looks like Zoey has another idea altogether! Perhaps I'll sew her a brightly colored cat cushion to go inside her new cradle. So I'll be back at the Goodwill store again soon to see if I can't find another solution for my organizational challenges. I'll also work on not falling victim to the cat's persuasive ways!

Feeling crafty?

2009-05-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

I am! So to get my artsy inspiration on, I'm going to stop by to visit my crafty sisters at Handmade Parade this Saturday! And you should, too!

There will be free swag bags, craft demos, make and takes, and dozens of vendors! And I can't wait to get my hands on the Handmade Resource Guide - it's chock-full of info on where to get craft supplies and handmade goodies!

Handmade Parade
Saturday, May 23 from 11am - 5pm
Giovanni Hall at 1333 58th Street in Sacramento
www.handmade-parade.com

Keep on crafting, my lovelies!

Persian Rescue Project

2009-05-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's Photo of the Week was of a Persian that was recently rescued from a breeder's home after she passed away. Named Liberace, he is now in the care of Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary and will be available for adoption at the end of the month.

I wanted to share some more photos of the rest of the Persians that I visited with at the Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary on Friday. Ladies first, of course!

This little girl's face is so sweet, especially with her tongue sticking out of her mouth!

This tiny girl had a healthy appetite and ate lots of her "cereal" err, crunchy food.

Here she is again with her new lion haircut.

This beautiful girl has a white marking across her face and it almost looks like a handlebar mustache!

She was very friendly!

After leaving the Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary, I went over to their new, but not yet opened location to meet the boys. So now for the gentlemen.

You met Liberace yesterday. Here he is again playing with a feather toy.

This guy looks like a little lion!

And last but not least, this silly little boy was named, "Grandpa." He is an older cat and is very friendly. But here's where he melted my heart - he makes the funniest noises! It was a combination between loud purring, an old man snoring, and a gurgling gremlin! I laughed hysterically which made him purr even more!

Here's Grandpa again, perhaps shocked that I stealthily snapped this photo of him in his skivvies!

Please visit the Happy Tails website for additional information on these sweet Persian cats and to learn how you can give one a forever home.

Photo of the week - You had me at, "Meow."

2009-05-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I had the pleasure of meeting the 14 Persian cats who were recently rescued in a breeder's house after she had passed away. After seeing these precious cats, I realize that the Sacramento Bee article clearly did not do justice in the reporting of their poor condition. A majority of the cats needed to be shaved because their hair mats were pulling away from the skin. None have ever seen a vet and are currently being treated with full medical vaccinations, blood work-ups, spaying and neutering, and complete dental exams. A majority of the cats are seniors. All just want a safe, loving home with an owner who will shower them with attention and affection.

While at the new Happy Tails facility where the boy Persians are currently being housed, I fell madly in love with Liberace. He's a younger cat, probably only a few years, and is very active and energetic. He was very content to play with a feather toy all afternoon. His lovely hair is gray and white and you can tell that he will have a beautiful coat as soon as it grows back in from his new lion haircut! And his golden eyes say, "Take me home now!"

The Persian cats are now safely in the care of Happy Tails and will be available for adoption at the end of May. In the meantime, if you would like to make a donation to the "Persian Rescue Project" to help with their medical bills and care, please visit the Happy Tails website for additional information. If you are interested in adopting one of the Persians, please contact Happy Tails by e-mail at purrball {at} happytails {dot} org.

Over the next several days, I'll post more photos of the other Persians who will soon be available for adoption, as well as some of the other many cats at Happy Tails who need a forever home.

Painting for Paws!

2009-05-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars now! Meows!

Flyer designed by kjcreates.com

Call for artists - "Painting for Paws"

2009-05-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

The annual "Painting for Paws" fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2009. The Happy Tails cats and dogs are once again busy with their creative endeavors, painting one-of-a-kind pieces of original artwork for this year’s fundraiser! Pieces will be accompanied by a photo and bio of the furry artist. In addition, there will be “human artwork,” a silent auction, complimentary food & wine, a prize drawing and animal-themed jewelry for sale.

If you would like to be a "human artist" for this event, please let me know. The deadline for receiving art is Sunday, June 7, 2009. Kindly send an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com with the following information before Sunday, May 31 so that we can make sure that we have your information correct for the event materials.

Your name:
Email:
# of art pieces:
For each piece, list -
Name of piece:
Medium:
Dimensions:
Value:
Include a Jpeg photo of each piece. If your art work is not yet finished, do your best to complete as much as possible of the above information.

Thank you very much for your art donation to the Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary "Painting for Paws" fundraiser. This event is going to be a huge success because of your support!

"Painting for Paws" - A Fundraiser for Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary
Second Saturday Art Show & Reception
Saturday, July 11 from 6pm - 10pm
Pavilions Shopping Center, Fair Oaks Blvd., Near Howe Ave.
No admission fee!

Founded in 1993, Happy Tails rescues abandoned, abused and unwanted companion animals in the Sacramento area, and finds them safe, permanent, loving homes. All proceeds from the event will benefit Happy Tails, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. www.happytails.org.

Zoey in October 2006. This is her first night in my home after Happy Tails nursed her back from near death. She ate her food so quickly that she got hiccups! She then passed out in my bed.

Zoey in May 2009. She is a very healthy 14-pound cat. And who knew she was long-haired!

A "Cat Call" contest!

2009-05-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

After the success of last weekend's Second Saturday "Women Uncovered" art show and all of the wonderful compliments on my newest piece of art called "Zoey Wishes," I've decided to create more quilted art wall hangings. However, Zoey says that she needs to take a short break from her modeling career. (I may have created a diva!). So, I'm putting out a "Cat Call" for new cat models! And here's how your favorite feline* can participate:

- Leave me a comment and then send an email to eviesark {at} gmail {dot} com with "Cat Call" in the subject line. Include your full name and your cat's name, age, sex, and breed. Feel free to include multiple cats if you have more than one. Don't want anyone's feelings hurt!
- Tell me about your cat in a sentence or two.
- Include a Jpeg photo of your cat. I'm specifically looking for head shots and up close photos of cat faces, but will also accept full body shots. Send as many photos as you like.
- Submit your information no later than Wednesday, May 20, 2009.
- From the submissions, I'll pick my top 5 favorite cats who will then be immortalize in art! These 5 winners will also receive Evie's Ark, All Things Animals organic catnip toys like the ones shown below!

So, go grab your camera - and your cat - and get started! Your cat could be America's next top cat model!

* By entering this "Cat Call" contest, you give me permission to use your cat's likeness in my art, to create such art to my liking, and to use your photo in relation to such art.

Photo of the week - Road trip, baby!

2009-05-10T23:32:00.000-07:00

Today, my friend Char and I took a road trip to Sausalito to tour the ICB open artists' studios. She had never been, so I was very excited to share this gem with her - a three-story industrial building of private art studios. We met a very talented artist, with whom we gushed about our love of Golden Fluid Acrylics, and she shared her unique techniques with us. We also came across a studio space that was for rent and spent some time daydreaming about how we would organize it (and afford it!).

Thanks to faulty GPS directions, we took a detour to Stinson Beach and had some fun in the sand. We snapped the photo below. You'll notice that there are only 3 of our 4 feet showing. While we waited patiently for the tide of the ocean to approach our shoes, I chickened out at the last minute! You can still see the evidence of my shoe's foot print as I tried to make a clean and dry get-away!

We ended the day with dinner at a phenomenal Italian restaurant in Mill Valley and enjoyed pasta, gnocchi, lemon drop martinis, and the world's best-ever tiramisu!

This day was exactly what I needed!

"Zoey Wishes," a new art piece

2009-05-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

You'll recall that a few days ago, I took a picture of Zoey in the living room window. She was an angel posing so that I could get her spots just right for a new art piece. Here's that original photo.

And here's the piece of art that I created! Despite several mishaps, this piece came together fairly quickly in just two evenings. I'll write a blog in the next few days about the steps used to assemble this piece.

This piece was created from batik and cotton fabrics. I used variegated thread and free-hand motion on the quilting. You can't see it in the photos, but there are stars quilted into the sky fabric. And the red curtain actually hangs from the piece so that it creates a three-dimensional effect.

This piece is available at the "Women Uncovered" Second Saturday art show at Side Show Studios through June 6.

I titled this piece "Zoey Wishes." What do you think she wishes for when she looks at the stars?

Why Zoey loves Vox

2009-05-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

Earlier last week, I had coffee with the lovely and fabulous Jill. While chatting about next month's Women's art show at Vox, she told me that it would be the grand re-opening at Vox's new location in Midtown. So as the new location will come with a lot of already provided furniture, they will need to sell the furniture at their West Sacramento location. At that point in the conversation, the Heavens parted and angels sang from sunbeams pouring down from the sky. At least that is how I recall the conversation about furniture. I quickly told Jill that I wanted to get a sneak peek at their sale. I had been in love with their funky, retro, eclectic furniture since my first art show with them some time ago.

So tonight, I popped on over to the Vox West Sac location and happily bought two crushed velvet green chairs! I was thankful for the help loading them into my car as they are very heavy. And as soon as I arrived home and unloaded them into the house, Zoey happened!

Zoey promptly piles cat toys into one of the chairs. Guess she's staked that one out as hers!

Zoey yawns as she wears herself out playing in her new chair.

Zoey falls fast asleep in her new chair.

Vox will soon post the rest of their furniture on Craig's List. But you can get your own first-hand look this weekend at their Second Saturday art show. You'll get a great deal on some fun, funky furniture, all while supporting a very worthy group that is so important to the Sacramento art scene! And it's an art show that you won't want to miss - “A Call to Action” art and live reggae from Ras Roy Unity and music by Gene Smith.

Vox Gallery
600 4th Street
West Sacramento
www.voxsac.com

Photo of the week - The 5 P's to happiness

2009-05-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

Earlier last week, I planted petunias in the painted pots on my patio! Wow - say that three times fast!

I do my little turn on the catwalk

2009-05-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

So here's a hint at the current piece of art that I'm working on for my upcoming Second Saturday art show called, "Women Uncovered" at Side Show Studios. Yes, Zoey modeled for me and held this pose - put your paw here, turn your head this way, now hold it! I wanted to get her spots just right!

Now, back to creating!

Women Uncovered art show

2009-04-30T22:36:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled to participate in another unique art show! Side Show Studios Custom Tattoo and Fine Art Gallery will present Women Uncovered, an all-female exhibition on Saturday, May 9, 2009 from 6-10pm.

The May show will focus on new, rarely shown, and obscure female artists. Never before seen artists will stand side-by-side with well-known, but rarely seen artists to celebrate the strength and power of women.

Featured artists include: Alison Monk, Amy Fort, Broken Toyland, Cate Schmiedt, Char Hall, Cy Wylie, Darcy Dick, Dy Martin, Emily Cole, Emma Rebekah Norris, errin lacy, Evie Turner, Gem Platte, Jacquelyn Bond, Jenvy Fox, Jill Allyn Stafford, Kanika Marshall, Karin Faringer, Kelly Croisdale, Kim Brownell, Krissi Sandvik, Larissa Tessler, Linda Nunes, Lori Ann Delappe-Grondin, Margaret Teichert, Michelle Cordova, Nicole Fox, Rachel McPherson, Robyn Slakey, Sandra O'Ben Rauch, Silly Girl Design, Summer Maddux, Tiffany Valdez, Yoli Manzo, and many more!

Side Show Studios
5635 Freeport Boulevard, Suite 6, Sacramento, CA 95822
(916) 391-6400
www.sideshowstudios.net
sideshowstudios@yahoo.com

Join us to celebrate the achievements and creativity of today's female artists!

The art will be on display daily from 10am - 10pm through June 6, 2009.

Photo of the week - Daydreaming

2009-04-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Zoey daydreams.

Photo of the week - Spring time!

2009-04-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung! And everything is in bloom! Including my allergies. Haha!

While coming home the other afternoon, I noticed that my neighbor's rose bushes were in full bloom! The roses grow from their backyard, cascade over the fence, and almost reach the ground. Lovely shades of oranges, pinks, and yellows remind me of sherbet ice cream. And the smell is quite extraordinary! I noticed that jasmine was intertwined amongst the roses and picked a few pieces for my own home. Enjoy!

Photo of the week - How to prepare for a busy week

2009-04-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

In an effort to spread some happiness, I thought it would be fun to post a photograph of the week on my blog. So every Sunday, I'll share a photo about any random subject that makes me smile. I hope it makes you feel the same way. And what better way to start off the fun than with the first post being a photograph of the love of my life, my kitty Zoey. She makes me laugh on a daily basis!

Zoey rests up in preparation of a busy work week ahead.

Easter Bunny or imposter? You be the judge.

2009-04-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to you!

Love,
Evie and Zoey

Zoey impersonates the Easter Bunny by channeling her inner sock bunny.

Feel good story

2009-04-10T18:17:00.001-07:00

I saw this story on tonight's news broadcast and it hit really close to home for me. Still trying to recover from the heartbreak of my kitty Tsarina's passing last summer, I had finally decided that my Christmas present to myself would be another cat. Then just two weeks before Christmas, I was layed off from my job of nearly five years. With that, I felt that it wasn't fair to bring home another mouth to feed.

In this time of such a harsh down economy, it gives me hope to know that there are people who are willing to help those who can barely help themselves. This video shares such a story.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy