Addams Family Mini-Mansion

Happy 100th Birthday to Charles Addams!

2012-01-07T15:12:00.006-06:00

I would feel horrible if I didn't get on and wish Happy 100th Birthday to Charles Addams, the man who created the family I so dearly love! I wish he were still here to see how his characters have lived on into the 21st Century. And now they're even on Broadway!

If you would like to read more about Mr. Addams you can go to the Wiki page on him here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Addams

or to the Tee and Charles Addams Foundation here:
http://www.charlesaddams.com/
(you may not be able to get on today... looks like they're servers can't handle the traffic!)

I highly suggest you look into Charles Addams and the wonderful contributions he made to the world of cartooning and art. What a wonderful mind!

Happy Birthday to Charles Addams from the Mini-Mansion! We miss you!
(I don't know what's in that cake..... but I'm sure he would love it :)

Sculpting Smokey

2011-10-18T13:30:00.007-05:00

Well I finished him! Meet Smokey, the Addams' stuffed polar bear.

Some of you might be thinking "I thought they had a brown bear" OR you might be thinking "Ara must think everyone else watches the addams family episodes over and over like she does - I didn't even know they had a stuffed bear." Either way, you're right :) They did have a stuffed brown bear in season 1 of the show, but in season 2 they all the sudden had a Polar bear (which they eventually accidentally set on fire with a flame thrower). He is not to be confused with their polar bear rug on the floor (his name is Bruno).

I started with a wire frame covered in masking tape for bulk. Then I added clay over the top and sculpted to the best of my ability. I cooked him and then added paint and details on the base to make him look like a real piece of taxidermy. I thought about flocking him but the clay ended up looking really softish so I didn't want to mess it up with flocking.

He may only be 8 1/2" tall but as you can see below he has quite a presence in the mini world. I am so excited to be finally adding some Addams detail to the mansion! One less thing on the to -do list! Hooray!

Moved my work space....

2011-10-16T11:35:00.004-05:00

We're still adjusting to Miss Bella being here... and one of those adjustments was figuring out how to protect the baby from the minis, and protect the minis from the baby! So I worked my tail off cleaning out the back room of my house to move my office into it. Before it was in what should have been our dining area (we're an eat in front of the tv type of family).

DH got some shelves hung for me and I got my retro floor lamp installed so we're good to go now! We also got the mansion snug in its own corner. There's actually more room for me to spread out here I think. The dogs have to live underneath the whole thing but they're no trouble. I like to say they live in the 'basement'.

I have also made an extensive to-do list. Now a days it seems like if its not on a list... it won't get done. My first to-do is a sculpt I have been putting off that is absolutely necessary for the completion of this mansion. I have to be in the mood to sculpt... And I think I finally am! I'm not going to tell what it is in case I fail miserably.... but hopefully will post soon with the results!

-ara

I'm back! ....With swords!

2011-08-16T10:48:00.002-05:00

Hi all.... well bella's about 2 1/2 months old now and I'm starting to get some me-time! Right now she's taking a nap so I decided to try doing a post from my phone. We'll see how this goes....

I'm starting to realize how many mini's you can find at antique stores. I actually found these like a week before Bella was due (we were trying to find an air conditioned place for me to walk and walk lol).

They are miniature swords in a stand! Perfect for Gomez's study don't you think. They are all removable so I plan to have some here and there like he's been fighting with them.

I believe they're just a little tourist buy from a trip to Spain seeing as they have Barcelona stamped on them! I just couldn't believe how perfect they were.

As always thanks for sticking with my blog.... sorry for the long lapses I'm between.... you can blame Bella lol.

My little Doll

2011-06-08T13:22:00.003-05:00

Thank you all for you kind comments! Sorry I have not had time to reply to each person. We are slowly adjusting and catching up on sleep when we can.

I am sorry I forgot details last time!!! Her name is Arabella (after her mama:), Bella for short and she was 7lbs 13 ozs! We thought she was going to be much bigger but she surprised us! She was 20 3/4 inches long.

I thought you guys might like this photo!! This is my not-nearly-finished-at-all house for my little wooden model guys and I thought it would be perfect for a photoshoot with tiny Bella! She slept through the whole thing!

The couch on the right is one that was in my grandmothers house and I remember playing with it as a child. The other two chairs on the left were made by me. I think this ones going to be blown up and put in my workroom!

Bella seems to be quite the sleeper so I am hoping to be back to following blogs and making miniatures soon! Hugs to all, Ara

She's Here!

2011-06-05T20:27:00.003-05:00

Just dropping by to say she's here! Thank you so much for everyone checking in on us. I will let you know more of the 'birth story' if you are interested but lets just say its been a LONG week. I was in labor for 4 days.... yep 4 days.... straight. I ended up having to go to a hospital I was unfamiliar with, had a new doctor..... and all sorts of stuff. But in the end all is well and we have a healthy baby girl!!

We are a little sleep deprived... ok a lot sleep deprived.... but very happy :)

Will update with a few more baby pics and some more minis soon. But first SLEEP!

Love to all, Ara

Updates and a Big Thank you!

2011-04-28T16:19:00.007-05:00

First of all, big Big BIG thank you to everyone who is sticking with me and continuing to follow my blog!! It's been a long 8.5 months but I am now just a couple weeks away from my baby's due date!! I can't wait and I am super ready to get this show on the road.

I haven't had much new to show you as working on anything mini has been a slow go. Pregnancy Carpel Tunnel has limited the amount of things I can do with my hands. And somehow folding tiny clothes and all the other chores that have to be done have taken over.

However, I do have an update for you! I started working on the right wing addition to the mansion! It is the RGT addition that is specifically for the Alison Jr. I am finding that the more that is pre-done for me the better lol. This addition will house Morticia and Gomez's room on the top and the dining room on the bottom floor. You can see this goes along with my original plans located here.

There is more done on the bedroom than on the dining room right now, but I did start the dining room floor. I decided to do a rectangular pattern of wood planks. I have more to do and will post more on it later.

Here you can see a little bit more into the bedroom. I have yet to "age" it. I got most of the molding up. This is also the only room I have done carpet in. I wanted it to be a little more of an inviting room. Also I will be putting up several photos of the loving couple on the wall. It also contains the mirror that I found at an antique store which I am so excited it fits in the room.

Below I have made a new bed that is more appropriate to the small size of the room. I like it fairly well..... Not as much as I liked the first bed but it would never have fit!

I also put together two different Micheal's hutchs to create a large dresser for the couples clothing. Because of the limited space I made it tall instead of wide. I added some red paper into the openings to try and match the red on the bed.

Anyway, so that's what I have done. I wish it was more but I am happy at least that I something to show! I am hoping to get back to my Etsy store and my mini-mansion in a few months or so in the little moments I have to myself. I will of course also let you guys know when the little one arrives!

Thanks again for sticking with me. Oh yes, and I was very excited to find this as I was hobbling around an antique store the other day. It's a pin cushion but is the PERFECT size for the mansion. Seems like something the Addamses might have up in the attic or in a corner somewhere lol. It was only $2.50. Even better!

Much love to my fellow Bloggers! -ara

Some Addams Items for Sale!

2011-01-28T15:45:00.005-06:00

SOLD

Hi all,

Latest news on the Mansion is that I am starting to work on some of the additions! This means I will be working on Gomez and Morticia's room and also the dining room! Unfortunetly, as I was planning out G and M's room I realized that the bed I made for them way back in this post, is way too big for the room. Its still in scale, its just a large bed that needs a home in a large room! Anyway, this is the reason why I am selling it on Etsy now. If you are interested you can get to my store by clicking here or you can click on my Etsy App on the side of this page.

Also I started working on a chair for the little reading nook in the mansion. Here you can see it next to the built-in shelves in the study area. I decided while I made this one that I would make a twin for it and sell in on Etsy. You can see the twin chair in the last picture in this post.

These chairs have been ripped up and dirtied to add some extra character. Once again, if you're interested in this chair you can go to my etsy store. I'm excited to bring a little Addams Family to my store - lol!

SOLD

Thanks for stopping by! Hugs, Ara

Thank you to Sans!

2011-01-28T15:38:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to thank you Sans for the wonderful gift you sent! And congrats of course on your second year!

If you have not been to Sans blog you simply must go over to see her beautiful scenes and read her fact filled stories! You can't visit without learning something new!

Click here for Sans blog!

I absolutely love the trim you send and so do the Addamses! The gold is right up their alley. Morticia is already planning an extravagant piece for the bedroom..... the trim will be the perfect touch!

Thank you again Sans!!

My Greatest "Mini" Ever....

2011-01-17T11:18:00.003-06:00

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to show you all my baby!!! We went to the doc's last Thursday and found out we're having a GIRL!!!! DH and I both thought it was a boy and so did most of the family so everyone was surprised! Except for my younger sister who did a dance and sang "I knew it, I knew it...."

Her name will be 'Arabella Fay' and we'll call her 'Bella' for short! I already think she's the cutest thing I've ever seen... and I've only seen her in black and white so far!

True Story: On the way home from the Doctor, DH and I were in the car and I scared him half to death by screaming "Oh my gosh..... DOLLHOUSES!" I am so excited I might be able to share something I love to do with my daughter! I know its not just a girl thing.... but its more likely she may be into it than a son. Anyway - she will definitely have one (a clunky plastic one prob) in her room by the time she arrives!! YAY!

Thanks for sharing in my excitement with me!!! -Ara

Off Topic: Hear Ye Hear Ye - Miniatures sale going on!!

2011-01-07T10:33:00.006-06:00

Hello to all my lovely readers!!! Just wanted to let you know about a sale I am having in my Etsy store!!! I am making room for all the new designs swimming around in my head so I have taken 40% off a large selection of my items!!!!

Select Chairs are 40% off such as this Pink Chair that would be perfect for someone doing a cake shop scene or even a fun teenagers room!!

SOLD

ALL tables are 40% off including this lovely white table that simulates a stained glass top! There are four of these available so they would make a lovely end table set for anyone who loves that shabby chic look!!

Also, all ottomans are on sale.... they make a wonderful filler for those awkward corners that you don't know what to do with! Stack them up with books or place a plate of delicious cookies on them for a wonderful bit of detail!!!

If you are interested in taking a look around you can get to my Etsy shop by clicking on the advertisement on the side of my blog page or just click here.

Look for all the items that say 'BIG SALE' next to their name.... they have been reduced by 40%!!

I look forward to showing you all some fun new designs I am coming up with!!! I got my office all cleaned up for the new year and I am ready to create!!

Hugs, Ara

Off Topic: Finally.... Tabitha's Give-Away Prize

2010-12-18T11:42:00.004-06:00

Well, it was a bumpy road getting there... but I finally got Tabitha's custom give-away finished!!! And I am so glad to say that she really likes it.

She has a really amazing project going on focused around a rather famous Wizard/Magician..... please visit her blog for her to tell you more about it in her own words! Plus she has so many wonderful things there, that I highly suggest you become a follower if you aren't already!

Tabitha's blog is here.
I also included this detail show for those of you who were saying my photos don't pop up.... I will really try to work on figuring that out! Tabitha wanted the chair in 'ruins' so I tried my best!!

Hope you like it!!! hugs, ara

Long Time, No See!!! 100th Post!

2010-12-11T20:45:00.006-06:00

Hello Everyone! I'm back and rejuvenated!! I have been dealing with a lot of nausea because of the baby and on top of that several sinus infections that have left me down and out!

Good news is Baby is doing good, healthy as far as we know and we find out what the gender is in Mid January!!

More Good News: I'm Back!!! I am finally feeling well enough to sit at my desk and get back to work! My fingers are itching and my mind is full of ideas for the Addamses, chairs and more!

I am sorry I have missed so much of whats been going on. I plan to go through y'alls blogs over the next couple days and check up on everyone. It's my mission!!

Meanwhile I'd figure I'd show you the last miniature project I actually got done... This was a while ago too!

We had to make something themed off of the phrase "little shop of..." And I made the "Little Shop of Lost Monsters". This was made for a Circle Swap on a forum and it went to my friend Marie. She said she really liked it so yay!!

Missed you guys and I can't wait to see what you've been up to!! -Ara

Just checking in before its back to the Couch!

2010-11-08T13:31:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to let you know that I haven't forgotten about you all. I've had the hardest time sitting at my desk or even being on the computer for very long. Needless to say I haven't been keeping up with your blogs and I really miss them!

I had a sonogram last week and every thing seemed well with the baby (and me). And now I have a nice little picture to look at as I am getting sick every hour.... it makes it a little more bearable!

Anyway - I just wanted to say hi and that I am almost out of the first trimester. Hopefully baby will let me back to my miniatures soon! The Addamses are getting impatient!

And continued apologies to Tabitha as I still have not finished her prize from winning my give-away. Luckily she is the sweetest person ever!!!

Love you all and hopefully will be back soon, Ara

Off topic: A bit of personal news....

2010-09-27T09:48:00.002-05:00

So we found out some news recently that's kind of thrown off my schedule and my energy.... I'm pregnant!

Yep this will be our first baby. We are very excited but boy do I feel icky! (or should I say ooky...) I'm tired, nauseous, and feeling several of the other symptoms! We are guessing that the kiddo will arrive sometime next May.... but we have yet to have our first doctors appt!!

Anyway - I am still going to be working on my project but I want to let you know that my recent burst of energy and productivity may have been short lived - lol. Hopefully my energy levels will go back up by the second trimester.... we shall see.

Tabitha.... your chair is first on my list at the moment but will not be done by the end of the month like I had hoped... I will keep you updated! Hopefully it won't be to much longer!

Hugs to all, Ara

We have a Give-Away Winner!!

2010-09-01T18:34:00.003-05:00

Congrats Tabitha - you have won the give-away! You will receive a custom hand-made piece of furniture from me!!

Thank you all for entering the give-away and telling me about your projects. Like I said I wish I could make something for each and every one of you. I appreciate you guys following my blog and commenting and giving me suggestions on my project!!

Here's what Tabitha said about her current projects:

I have two projects that I am currently working on, though I don't have pictures on the blog yet. Mmm...probably should do that...

The first is the study of Prof. Meradoch Emerson Pimm's...archeologist and adventurer!

The second is Medieval ruins that I intend for a friend who writes fantasy novels and short stories. I want to include as many things from his stories in the setting as possible and only recently got the idea for the setting when he wrote "Ruins of Camelot".

I would LOVE to have something made especially by you for the Professor!

http://tabithacorsica.blogspot.com/

Please make sure to visit her blog and see what she's got going on - you won't regret it!!! Think about what you would like made Tabitha and email me at afminimansion@gmail.com! The professor project sounds exciting!!!

Looking forward to the next give-away, ara

And finally the 3rd Floor tour....

2010-08-31T22:08:00.007-05:00

This is the floor that has never been seen before!! I spent a whole two days having the DH help me glue this top section together.... because of the weird angle it took a lot of clamps to do each wall (or so it seemed)! Finally we got it together the and I was able to work on the final rooms in the main part of the house.

Here you can see Wednesday's and Pugsley's room. For this house they will be sharing one large room. It will also kind of be their play room. It is the biggest room of the house so I am excited to get working on the all the goodies I am going to fill it with! Also.... I just wanted to note that the border around the room is a border drawn by Charles Addams in one of his cartoons. Its the border in Wednesdays room. With photoshop and a little bit of patience I was able to make something I could print and stick up on the wall!

You can also see there are a few things sitting in on the floor - there is a cement mixer, a cannon, a trunk and Wednesday's spider, Homer, in her cage. The red tile floor is handmade - it took a while but I like it! Its hard to see but I even put in a spot where perhaps some dynamite might have exploded and left a burn mark.

Next is the 'Attic' side of the 3rd floor. I went all out and made aging boards surrounding the whole room. I really wanted to give the effect that this is an unfinished part of the house used for storage. Anything strange and without a home will go up here. Its also where the firemans pole from the 2nd floor will come up to.

I built a small landing platform here for those Addamses going up the pole. I did this to make the stair opening that came with the kit smaller and also to add some interest to the plain floor.
There are a few things that have made it into the attic already!

I do think the attic needs a little more dirtying... and the kids room needs some more explosive marks ... but I am happy with what I have as a starting point! Dirtying things up is the fun part!!!

You've now seen the entire tour of the Addams Family Mini-Mansion thus far. I am about to start putting together the wing addition!!!! More on that to come soon! Thanks for looking!

PS..... The give-away drawing is tomorrow night! Make sure to leave a comment if you want to enter!

2nd Floor Tour - Far from done!!...

2010-08-29T21:42:00.006-05:00

Here you can see the second floor. It is, as I said, far from done. But things are really starting to come together in my mind and in the mansion! I added in a gray bar for where there is another open column.... it just looks confusing so I grayed it out!

Below is a photo of my newest installation. I wanted so badly to hang weapons up on the wall in the study. I didn't have a ton of them so I hung what I had.... DH says that they medieval weapons hung with the rifle doesn't make any sense. But it seemed like something the Addams Family might do.... after all they still use Medieval objects in their every day life...

Here you can see the built in book case I am building on the other side of the weapons wall. I want this to kind of be like a reading nook in a dark corner. I think I will make a big poofy (ooky of course) chair to go across from this shelf in the hall way.
Also I wanted to point out my little guy that's sitting at the base of the book shelf. My dad brought me this guy back from Brazil. Isn't he perfect!!! My dad got him just for my Mini-Mansion! Thanks Dad! I love him!

Also... you may notice that I am missing the stairs up to the 3rd floor. Well.... I have decided that because of lack of space and a want for being like the Addams house ... that I will put in a fireman's pole instead of a stair case to the 3rd floor. (its not in yet ... but its coming) According to the 1960's tv show, all the Addamses have the unique ability to go up a firemans pole just as easily as most of us can go down one. I am very excited about it!!!

Also... if anyone LOVES to make books and would like to do a swap for a bunch of books for a custom piece of furniture just let me know. I need lots of unique books for this shelf and books are just not my thing. If interested you can email me at afminimansion (at) gmail (dot) com.

Thanks for looking everyone. This concludes your tour of the 2nd floor....until I do more on it :)

Over 200 Followers! Give-Away Time!

2010-08-28T23:15:00.003-05:00

First of all I want to say thank you to all who follow my blog! I truly appreciate all your encouragement and comments over the past year or so! You all have given this project a whole other level of fun!

To show my appreciation I want to do a give-away. I wish I could give something to each and every one of you but I don't have that kind of dough! So in the usual fashion we will have a drawing for one person to receive something from me!

And I decided to use Kate's idea so she gets her name in the pot one extra time! Here's what the give-away item will be:

1 custom made piece of furniture for whatever miniature project you may be working on.

Because I am making this item specifically for the person who's name is drawn, it will be a wait before you will get it. I am thinking a month would be a good amount of time to say I could get something done.

So here are the RULES to enter the give-away. Leave me a comment telling me about the project you are working on now that you are the MOST excited about. Also put the address of your blog or website in your post so if anyone else wants to see your project they'll know right where to go! *The piece of furniture I make doesn't have to be for the project you mention in the post.... I am just interested in what every one's doing right now.* If you don't have a current project just tell me about an idea you have for the future.....

ALSO..... to say thank you to all the followers who have been with me through the long haul I will be choosing three of my posts (one from the beginning, middle and more recent posts) and if you commented on those posts you will get an extra point per post as well! I will just choose them randomly and only count comments made before this post (so no going back and commenting on everything-lol). Remember you have to comment on this post to be entered... previous comment points will just add on to this first entry.

Let me know if you have any questions... I will do the drawing next Wednesday, September 1st in the evening so be sure to comment! Looking forward to hearing all about everyone's projects!

Thank you all again, Ara

First Floor Update!

2010-08-28T22:23:00.007-05:00

Welcome back Ladies and Gentlemen!!! I've done a lot since you've been here last and I am excited to show you around! Above you can see the entire first floor.... I have added in a fake column because right now it is just open. I haven't yet figured out how I am going to finish off the open face of the dollhouse.

Here is the front hall.... its still mostly the same with the addition of a little caveman statue and a hall rug.

If you look slightly to the right you can see a bench waiting for visitors to take a seat. Morticia has lovingly added an interesting little plant for some color.

Across the room you can see the main fire place complete with knick-knacks and moose horns waiting to be hung in place. Gomez and Morticia's chairs sit side by side waiting for them to come warm themselves by the fire.

Off in the distance sits Lurch's organ and a small phonograph. The Addams Family is never without music and their living room reflects that. Morticia is still picking out curtains so that will be next. Also floorboards and crown molding needs to be stained and installed.

Here is a closer view of Gomez's chair. He always sat in a throne-like chair so this is what he has in miniature. It's not the most comfortable looking thing but its great for relaxing in after a good workout of Zen-Yogi!

Thank you for coming on yet another tour of the first floor!! I already have pictures of the 2nd and 3rd floors to share with you all..... so I have no excuse to get those on here in the next few days. They are not as close to finished as the first floor but its getting there! -ara

Blogger :P - and Give-Away Question....

2010-08-27T10:31:00.005-05:00

Screen Capture from Addams Family Values

Well blogger has just really been hating me lately. Every time I have gotten on to read through and comment on posts, I have not been able to. I am now on a friends computer (helping them out at work) so I have been able to go back a few days and read through some missed posts.

Also.... you guys will be so proud of me.... I have been mini-ing up a storm! And its not on chairs this time - its actually on the Addams Family Mansion!! You can all pick your jaws up off the floor now - lol.

Here are the things I have done that I need to show you all (this is more a list of reminders for me but also so you can point out if I missed anything in the next week or so:

-I put the columns into the first floor (except for some floorboards and crown molding the first floor is almost done!!)
-I built Gomez's chair to sit next to Morticia's
-I started the built-in shelves needed for Gomez's Study
-I put together the at 3rd floor of the house (contains the kids room)
-I painted and put up a border in Wednesdays and Pugsleys room
-I created a fun spooky attic space in which to stuff a bunch of ooky junk!
-I started building the addition that will hold the dining room and G and M's room!! oh la la

ALSO - I passed 200 followers since my last post so it is definitely time to celebrate with a give-away. But I can't really decide what to give away?

Do you guys have any ideas? I want to make something but I don't know what. My first give away I made a nail bed but I don't know how many of you can use that.... What about a crazy upholstered chair.... I want it to be something my followers would actually want and be able to use. Please leave a comment with suggestions. If I pick your suggestion of what to make I will give you an extra point towards what ever I will do to pick the person who wins!

Love to all, Ara

Can't comment on Posts!!

2010-08-07T10:56:00.002-05:00

Anyone else having this problem???
I have been doing my regular looking back at posts I missed from you guys and I can't comment at all. I try to write in the comment box and my computer just dings at me.

It happens with all your blogs :( It's really rather frustrating!

Well, you all are doing such wonderful things with such beautiful work!! Wish I could tell you all that personally!!!

Off to try and locate the problem!!!

Morticia's Chair

2010-07-20T10:09:00.003-05:00

Well - like I said I've had the tinglies in my fingers to get going on the mansion again! And I know this isn't directly a piece of the mansion itself.... but its a VERY important part!

I am so glad I finally found some time to make a custom chair for myself! This is Morticia's famous chair that is seen in almost every episode of the tv show. It's actually a little modernized I feel. This mansion is my vision of the Addams Family mansion so I decided to put a spin on the famous furniture as well.If you want to see what the one from the tv show looked like, it was something like this. So I still kept the 'wicker' look and updated the over all shape. Plus you can see the back of it is a little more 'free form'. The only thing I am not sure about is the color....I feel like its very muddy. Its painted a light brown color and I tried to give it some depth using pastels ... but I'm just not sure..... what do you guys think?

Also, I am sad to say that my Morticia doll will never actually be able to sit in this chair :( Her dress is WAY too tight. I have been thinking about redoing her in the future anyway. Question for doll makers: when you make a doll you usually choose before hand if she will be sitting or standing? Is it difficult to make them do both??

Next in line for furniture will be Gomez's chair. He always sits in this ornate gold throne.... so that will definitely be a fun one to go wild with!

Antique gifts for the Addamses

2010-07-19T21:26:00.007-05:00

I've been to several antique stores recently and I have NOT been disappointed! I went to several stores while on a trip with my parents in Tennessee. Jackson, Tennessee to be exact :) The Addamses were pleased to see me return with a few things for their much neglected Mansion.

These first items were bought by my mother. I was going back and forth on whether or not to purchase them and so she just got them for me :) They are old Avon perfume bottles. They are tiny but I think they have a lot of potential. I am thinking of turning the clear one into a large vase full of some of the dead roses Sans gave me. And I am thinking of using the cap of the pink one for a very ornate side table :) And then the pink part can be a large decorative bowl in Bentley manner perhaps.

The next antique I am not sure what I am doing with just yet but I love it! My dad wanted to contribute to the dollhouse as well and bought me this antique vanity with seat. I am trying to decide if it works best for Morticia or for Mrs. Bentley!!? It's a little creepy but very classic I think!

Lastly, I found this piece here in a DFW antique store. I think its just a small mirror meant for a ladies vanity BUT its the perfect size to be an impressive stand-up mirror in miniature. It will definitely be a center piece in Morticia and Gomez's bedroom. And it was only $8. I felt like I struck gold!

I am getting the tinglies back in my fingers for working on the mansion! I am planning and planning!! More to come.....

Off Topic: Making Monsters with my Sister

2010-07-19T21:08:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to share with you a project I did with my sister when she came to visit me. I asked her what project she wanted to do and she practically yelled, "Lint Monsters!!"

Remember this guy from way back? Well she thought he was the cutest thing and wanted one of her own! They are made from dryer lint. I bought new red towels for my guest bathroom and saved the lint from washing those!

Anyway, here they are! My sister made a duck-monster since thats her favorite animal..... and mine came out a little like "Mike" from Monsters Inc. Hehe! They're both a little over an inch tall.

I'll be posting some Addams Family themed posts shortly.... I promise!!

Off Topic: Alice in Wonderland Chairs

2010-07-02T18:18:00.006-05:00

Hi Guys! Well I finally finished something I was working on! And no it isn't for the Addams Family (they're gonna hate me!). It's my Alice and Wonderland Chair Collection. Anyway - I just wanted to share them with you here since they are what has been taking up most of my time!

They are now listed on my Etsy site (which you can find a link to on the side of this blog). I did a version of the Red Queen's Chair, the Mad Hatter's Chair, and Alice's Chair. They are not direct replica's of the movie of the book illustrations, they are just what came from my mind when thinking about the characters. I also did a version of the White Queens chair (similar to the Red Queen's) that I have posted on Etsy.

Let me know what you think!

Love you guys, Ara

Quick Family Portrait

2010-05-27T08:38:00.005-05:00

I just couldn't resist getting the whole gang together here to show you who lives in the mansion so far! (click it to make it bigger)

Clockwise:
Morticia - The Matron of the Addams Family - made by me
Cleopatra - Morticia's prized African Strangler - made by Jayne of Tallulah-Belle
Cousin Itt - Gomez's hairy, yet playboyish cousin - made by Kate Whittaker
Cousin What - Cousin Itt's son - made by Kate Whittaker
Aristotle - Pugsley's pet octopus - made by me
Homer - Wednesday's pet spider - made by Teresa Dudley
Thing - The family's helping hand - made by me

Thank you all who contributed to this good looking group!! Don't they all just belong together!! Looks like a need to make a few more of the main family members to keep these guys all in line though....

The Texas Miniature Showcase

2010-05-25T16:29:00.003-05:00

Well - I am finally posting about my trip to The Texas Miniature Showcase!

It was my first miniature show ever and I was so excited I had a very difficult time falling asleep the night before! My Aunt drove up from Houston to go with me and my husband said he would go as well! (I warned him that if he came he was NOT allowed to say at any time that he was bored.... he did a very good job and I think he had fun too!:)

Anyway, I also got to meet Texas Belle!!!!! It was great getting to meet up with her. We went and had lunch and shared our treasures we had found that morning. Then we spent the rest of the afternoon walking around together trying to keep track of my aunt - haha! I can't wait for her to come over sometime to see the mini-mansion!

It was such a blast!! I'm gonna show you my favorite things I got from the show for the Addamses!

First, this is a piece by an artist named T. Dudley. It's a spider in a cage and he was just perfect to be Wednesday's pet spider, Homer. My Aunt actually got him for me!! I was jumping up and down I was so excited! It's about an inch long to give you an idea of scale.

The mounted moose horns you see sitting on the mantel here is another piece I found made by T. Dudley. The funny thing is that I bought these at two different stands and they were made 5 years apart.... The spider with cage was made in 2010, and the moose horns were made in 2005. I will be mounting the moose horns higher of course but I really like them and they are the closest I have found that look real!

And lastly this is a Bespaq piece that I found at a booth that was perfect for Gomez!! My Aunt bought this for me as well! She also got me the lamp and the small tobacco set for the top of the desk! Now I am ready to get the second level of the mansion going! Thank you Aunt Debbie! Gomez is finally ready to light up one of those cigars and sit back and relax in his office!

I had such a fun time.... I'm looking forward to next year! (The Addamses are too!)

Swap With Kate: Welcome to Cousin Itt and family!

2010-05-20T17:19:00.008-05:00

As you can see..... a few more Addamses have come home!! Morticia and Thing are seen here greeting Cousin Itt and his son, Cousin What!! Aren't they fabulous! Both of these were made by the wonderful Kate Whittaker!! She has really outdone herself for this one. I just wish I could put some kind of 3D app on this blog so you could see all the detail in these pieces!!

Because Cousin Itt was a little hard to see in the dark house I wanted to do a quick family portrait for them against a white back drop! Kate made everything.... the tiny coffin, Baby What, and even the precious pacifier (or Dummy... I just learned that from Kate) in his hairy little mouth! Ahhhh - I love them!

Also notice that she made the wheels into spider webs and there are two spiders joining Baby What wherever he may be going.

And I also wanted to show you the back of the coffin stroller! So cute!

Kate, thank you so so much for this wonderful swap!! I had so much fun and I can't tell you how excited I am to have two more of the Addams clan at home!! I really fuels my fire to get some things done! Big hugs from across the ocean!!

***
Oh yes.... and I was also gonna show what I made for Kate. But please stay tuned to her blog because when she is able she will show pictures of it in her project!!

She asked me if I could try making a wicker baby bed for her Sweeney Todd project. If you haven't seen the movie, Sweeney finds his daughters old bed.... all tattered and torn. So that is what I created. Its not just like the one in the movie but its based off of Kate's vision of what she wanted.

It was really fun making this for her because I got to try out some new techniques!!

Kate, as always, swapping with you was a blast! I look forward to the next time!!! -Ara

Off Topic: Gift for my Mother

2010-05-14T08:40:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I know this isn't Addams Family related but this is something I've worked on lately and I wanted to show you guys :) I have had in the back on my head for a while plans on how to make a working miniature recliner. Well I finally got started on it and I couldn't think of a better material to cover it in than my grandfathers old work shirt!

I remember for years when I was younger that he would come home from work and plop down in his recliner and sleep for a few minutes before dinner. Of course us grandkids would either disrupt his slumber or make fun of his amazingly loud snoring!!! haha.
Anyway he passed away several years ago but I have held on to several of his old shirts.

This chair went to my mother for this past mothers day. I knew she would love it because of the connection to her father and because.... of course her child made it :) It now sits in her curio cabinet of memories and I am so proud for it to be there!!

Anyway - I plan to make some more of those recliners and sell them (without my grandfathers shirt upholstery of course!!)

Since this was the first one I ever made there are a few improvements I will make on the next few but I really like it! Let me know what you think!!

-ara

Business is Booming and I am Tired!!

2010-04-21T10:15:00.003-05:00

But good tired!!

I know y'all don't want to hear another blog on why I've been such a very bad blogger and blogging friend. But its good news this time! I have been really working on trying to get Bentley House Productions up and running and I guess I've done something right!

I got my first order off of Etsy this past week and I am just over the moon about it! Plus I have 2 custom orders that I am working on at the moment. Plus lots and lots of plans!!! Those of you doing Alice in Wonderland tea party scenes.... stay tuned for chairs, chairs, chairs!!! (hopefully they'll be coming soon!

Plus I've got a few side swaps going (kate.... I'm getting started this week!! promise!!) (oh and Jayne.... your piano bench will be coming soon!) Phew!!

I can't tell you how upset the Addamses are at me right now as their mansion has coming to a grinding hault! Its just sitting on my desk collecting dust at the moment (not that they mind too much - they like dust).

I need to do something for them soon.... because its not really good to get on the bad side of the Addams Family.... I am thinking I might make some of those lovely skull candelabras like Tabitha did. She sent me some beads and instructions for it so I have NO excuse!!

OK - well thanks for everyone for still staying tuned to my silent blog! You guys are awesome!!

The Addams Family: An Evilution (Book Review)

2010-03-10T13:23:00.008-06:00

Hello All,

Well I am very honored to write this post. A publisher from Pomegranate Communications (click here for their website and purchasing info) contacted me about writing a review for a new Addams Family book after she found my blog!

She sent me a complimentary copy so that I could read through it. Oh boy... what a treat!! If you are at all interested in the Addams Family this would be a great book for your collection! It's entitled, "The Addams Family: An Evilution" by H. Kevin Miserocchi (Illustrations by Charles Addams...of course!).

Because of the new Addams Family Musical that just came out, this book was put together to reflect on the beginnings of this odd family. I have looked up a lot of information for my project but I found some things in this book I hadn't read anywhere else.

There are descriptions of each character as they were developed by Charles Addams, put together as a family, and notes on how he named and described each one for the famous Addams Family TV show.

A couple tidbits you might find interesting from the book: It talks about how the Addams 'Family' didn't really start as a family! They were all separate characters that ended up coming together in a beautiful way. This book will show you where they first showed up in Addams' work.

*My Morticia admiring a piece of furniture that she says must be in the mansion!

Another little tidbit..... the book explains the origin of 'Thing' (or 'The Thing') which I didn't think was in any of Chas Addams' cartoons.... but he is. But there's the secret! He used to be more than just a helping hand........

*Thing showing me that he did indeed exist in Charles Addams' cartoons. My bad, Thing.

And that's it... you'll have to get the book if you want more!

....Oh, duh, I forgot the best part! This book has some of the best of Charles Addams original cartoons. I can't tell you how page by page I was gaining more and more inspiration for my project! There are more cartoons than words so don't think this sucker will take you long to read..... but you might be caught up for hours looking at the beautiful illustrations!

And the best for last: Here's an amazing cartoon showing the woeful Wednesday putting a black wreath onto her doll house! How perfect!

Thank you all for reading this review! It's a great book that I will be visiting over and over!

-Ara

*Cartoon images © Tee and Charles Addams Foundation / Courtesy Pomegranate Communications

Off Topic: Quick Apologies

2010-03-10T13:14:00.004-06:00

Hi Everybody,

Just wanted to say sorry for not being able to keep up with everyone's blogs for the past two months or so!

You'd think that leaving my day job would give me MORE time on the internet... but apparently not! See at my desk job... I was in front of the computer for 9 hours straight.... and your blogs were the only thing that kept me sane!

Now I am in and out of the house (substitute teaching, running errands, cleaning house, etc...) and I am not at the computer near enough! I really miss reading everyone's blogs everyday and I am trying to set up a schedule for myself so I can do that BECAUSE you guys in blog land are super important to me!

I've been trying to catch up every now and then but please excuse me if I miss something while I figure out my schedule!

Coming up soon.... an Addams Family Book Review (kind of a history of the family)! Exciting!!

And then hopefully some minis when I can get back to that! (once again, you'd think I'd have more time... hahaha)

Hugs, Ara

Off Topic: Piano for Jayne

2010-03-02T13:33:00.006-06:00

Good morning all! Just wanted to share my other half of the swap I had with Jayne... I am not as quick as she is so mine went to her a few weeks after I received Cleopatra for my Addams conservatory!

I asked Jayne what she would want as a return swap and she mentioned her Pickled Vicar Project! Perfect!!! If you are not sure what it is please visit her blog here..... but to summarize (and correct me on anything I get wrong, Jayne) it is a pub that is in an old church building!! How perfect!

So I tried to think of what a church building and a pub might have in common.... and of course I thought of a piano! Early last year I had built an organ for Lurch with working keys so I just duplicated the same design for this piano. These keys work as well (Murph is demonstrating in the last photo).

I tried to make it look like an instrument an old church lady would play... but now all faded and dusty and with wood cracks and warps!

Jayne is pleased with it so I am too..... but dumb me forgot the piano bench! Off to work on that! haha!

Get your tickets for the Addams' Living Room Tour.....

2010-02-23T16:13:00.009-06:00

That's it ... don't push now ... everyone get in line and get your ticket for a tour through the Living Room of the Addams Mansion.

Now, remember folks that the mansion is still being built... as you will see as you walk through, there are several columns missing and the lighting has not been installed. However, you are just in time to see the finished stairway that has been custom built for the Addams'. Also, Mrs. Addams has placed items just for this showing so they may be enhanced or moved in the future.

Alright... who's first.... yes you. Alright, please enter through the door and you'll find your tour guide, Mrs. Addams herself.....

***Creeeeeeeeeeek***** The door slowly opens

"Ah...Welcome", says Mrs. Addams as she finishes putting out her last vase of freshly dead roses. "Welcome to my home. Come in.... and watch the Polar Bear rug, he hates guests."

"Hookah? No? Well it is rather early in the evening for smoking. I'll ring Lurch for some Lady Fingers. We just got in a fresh batch. Please sit."

"My family is doing quite horribly, thank you for asking. They are out collecting swamp gas for Pugsley's upcoming Science Project."

"So as you can see we're still in the process if making the mansion our home... several things still look a little too 'new' and 'clean'. Also, we've lost our moose head for the fireplace, Gomez has been hunting for a replacement for weeks. Its been a slow process but we Addamses love suspense...."

"Well thats the end of the tour" *A snapping noise from the corner of the room*

"Oh Thing, how thoughtful of you, but the upstairs study isn't quite complete. Gomez's desk has not even arrived yet."

"You will have to come back for the tour of the rest of the house..... no, you will not have to re-buy your ticket, you have a lifetime pass. Lurch has bagged a few lady fingers for you for the road, enjoy."

Off Topic: What happened to Texas?

2010-02-12T23:14:00.004-06:00

So.... I thought I lived in Texas.... but we just had a record breaking snow fall!! 9 inches is the greatest amount of snowfall here in one day in recorded history and it happened yesterday!

Now I know some of my Canadian friends are thinking... ha! 9 inches... no biggy. But you have to remember that snow is so rare here that none of us own snow shovels, snow boots, salt trucks, ice scrapers.... sleds.... ear muffs!!! Its cold for us and we're upstream without a paddle. (And yes we did use a blow-up mattress today as a sled to slide down the side of a highway embankment.... sledding Texas style :)

Plus power is going in and out here so I apologize if I miss a few posts... not sure when we will have constant power back!

Anyway... here is a pic of my dog Audrey running in the snow with my hubs! I hope everyone is staying warm! Brrrrrr.....

Cleopatra and Morticia United in Miniature!

2010-02-06T15:35:00.005-06:00

Those of you that watched and remember the Addams Family TV show (the black and white one) might remember little miss Cleopatra. She is Morticia's beloved African Strangler. (And for those of you wondering I have no idea if an African Strangler is real). Cleopatra was raised by Morticia from the time she was a little seedling. Morticia actually had Cleopatra before she even married Gomez so they have quite a tight bond. Here you can see them in the new conservatory together (ignore the unfinished windows) smiling at each other! I think Morticias avoiding a 'hug' though...Cleo was handcrafted by the oh so talented Jayne of Tallulah~Belle Originals! Jayne contacted me asking more about Cleopatra and said she was interested in trying her out! Well in a panic of excitement I offered to do a swap with her (because no way would I be able to resist the Addams Family plant made by one of the best mini-plant-makers out there!) and she agreed. I am working on her swap as we speak but I won't say what it is yet!

Thank you so much Jayne! She is just the most perfect picture of what Cleopatra should be!! And Morticia is thrilled so that has me thrilled as well! These pics just don't show off the detail that Jayne puts into each one of her creations!! Cleo is perfect in everyway! She is already taken up as alpha plant and has all the other plants shaking in their pots! Here you can see her ruling in her new atmosphere, isn't she a show-stopper??:

Also in the Conservatory you can see a few bottle and potions made by Kate of The Whittakers Miniatures! Also on the back wire shelf you can see a little Venus fly trap chowing down on a lump of meat made by Christina Pardy.

And finally a quick portrait of the Queen of the Conservatory!! Morticia's off to make her favorite meal to welcome her to the Addams Family Mini-mansion: Yak Meat Balls! Yum!!

Off Topic: Oh my goodness... finally on Etsy....

2010-02-01T23:40:00.003-06:00

Hello Friends,

Things have been happening over here! One of them is that I finally got everything set up and on Etsy! I hope you will visit the shop and look around :) Oh - also I will be starting a separate blog for Bentley House Productions so that I can keep this an Addams only zone!

The blog is here and there's not much on it yet. My husband turns pens (on a lathe) and he will be selling those there too.

Also.... more Addams stuff to come soon! Exciting stuff!!!

Love y'all! - Ara

Addams Christmas Goodies

2010-01-11T22:16:00.006-06:00

Today I am writing to show off my Christmas stash!!! I was so blessed this year by family and friends! Now I have no excuse whatsoever to get this project going like crazy!

First of all I want to give a big thank you to you guys in blogland that send gifts! You are all so sweet! Morticia want to thank you as well so she insisted on being in the photo with the blogland gifts!! The Tree stand and box is from Karin F.!! Its so beautfully ornate and somewhat gothic so it will be perfect for and Addams Family tree for next year! Thank you Karin!! The beautiful photos are from Katie!! She loves photography as much as I do so she sent some of her work... in miniature!! I can't wait to figure out where to put them! Thank you Katie!!! And the wonderful bouquet of 100 dying roses is from Sans! She sent them as an anniversary gift for the anniversary of her blog! Morticia loves them of course but I am going to have to make sure she doesn't start sniping the heads off of them! They're too pretty! I will have to do another post to show how I use these!! Thank you Sans!!

Here are a few items I received from my family! My hubby ordered several things (that I had on a list made for him - haha) online! I expected to get a few things but he didn't know what to choose so he just got everything!! haha! That works for me! I just choose a few of my favorites to show! Also, my MIL and SIL took me shopping in the Dollhouse store in Dallas and let me go wild! Thats where I found this fireplace screen by Brooke Tucker! I just love the goat head!

Here are a few more items! The pots will be the perfect place to use a few of those roses Sans sent!! The white wire shelves will be aged, dirtied, and addams-a-fied to go into Morticias conservatory! Also at the bottom of the pic is a cigar set for Gomez!

Lastly here is a crystal set for the formal dining room, and also this stove for Grandmama! Hubby picked this one out himself and did an awesome job! See..... you can pick out stuff I like honey!! haha!

So I feel pretty spoiled this year!! I also got a book on sculpting!! I can't wait to try out a few things on my next member of the Addams Family! oh - I also got some special things for my Clue project! But I put that on my Clue blog if you want to see!

Thank you again to all! Hugs, Ara

Off topic: Rosannas Christmas Swap

2010-01-11T22:13:00.004-06:00

I'm pretty late on posting this so I sincerely apologize to Marja!!! She sent me such a wonderful swap and I have been showing it off every chance I get! The detailing in the clothing is just wonderful. In case you cannot see from the photo.... its a men's outfit that has been tossed onto a chair! I just love the whimiscal feel to it all.... I wish you could see up close the detail she put into this! I believe she made a second set of clothing for a gent you can find here! But I am giving these fine clothes to Gomez!! For one of those crazy night of dancing he and Morticia indulge in on special occasions (such as Christmas)! It will look great sitting in the corner of their room! Thank you so much Marja!!

Here I will also show what I sent to Angela! Angela is a writer so I could picture her curling up by the fire with a great Christmas story and some Christmas cookies resting on a nearby ottoman! She also encouraged me to try my hand at some clay food... so she has the honor of having my first tray of clay food ever... hahah. I am pretending they are ginger snaps or something... who knows! Angela liked all three items so thats what counts!

And lastly, if you want to see the rest of what everyone sent to each other go here. So many talented ladies took part in this swap! Thanks for hosting Rosanna!!

Bed Swap!!!

2010-01-06T19:15:00.004-06:00

Back in December the forum that I am a part of, All Things Mini, has a thing called a MAKE which is basically just a giant circle swap. But its a chance for all the members to go all out for another member of the forum. The theme for this MAKE was 'bed'. So we all made beds!! I received a bed from Marie. It was specifically made for Grandmama. It has a working guillotine and stocks! It all moves and functions! And its fairly heavy because of all the nails! I just love it! And since Grandmama was busy (aka unmade) here is Morticia posing with the bed. She tried it out too and said it was great for a midday nap! (thats why she's got crazy hair going on).I made a bed for Cate who is soon going to be making a Victorian House! So the words 'victorian' and 'bed' went into my mind and guess what came out..... Wuthering Heights! There is bed described in Chapter 3 which is the scene for a ghostly visit from Catherine and eventually the death bed of a main character. A few details include the name 'Catherine' scribed into one of the window sills and a secret drawer to hold the matching wood stairs. Cate's now thinking about dedicating a few rooms in her Victorian house to Victorian novels she likes! Too cool!

I had fun ladies! Can't wait for the next MAKE!!

And yet another reason.....

2010-01-06T08:11:00.005-06:00

First of all I wanted to show y'all the official family potrait (from Vanity Fair, find short article here) of the Addams Family from the new musical..... let me know what y'all think. I am pretty sure Wednesday is supposed to be older in the musical so I think thats why she doesn't have braids........ hmmmm...... I know one of my readers, Louise, has already seen it and love it! I hope I get to someday as well!

Anyway, also I just wanted to finally announce another reason I have been so absent .... yesterday I quit my job!! :) And its a really good thing. But I have been filling out applications like crazy and its been taking up quite a bit of my time! Anyway - today will be my day to go back and read through you guys blogs! I have missed so much!

Christmas Follow-Up

2009-12-31T08:11:00.006-06:00

Addams Cartoon, Property of the Tee and Charles Addams Foundation

Merry Christmas to all..... and oh.... dang I am a little late!!! I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!!! This is the craziest time of year for my family and I seeing as I have Christmas, my birthday and our anniversary all within 4 days of each other! Needless to say I have not been able to be at the computer for long! (Plus Christmas was at my house this year for the first time!! busy busy busy!!)

My Christmas went well, I got A LOT of things for the Addams Family!!! Which has inspired me to put some more work into the actual mansion! Things are starting to come together and I can't wait to show you some finished areas!

So there will be many posts to come on things I promised a while ago to show you and some new things! Including swaps I have received, swaps I have made, Christmas/birthday gifts, and updates on the mansion.

I apologize for not being able to comment on all of your blogs. I will be back in a few days (we have another family event coming up!) to relax and read through about a months worth of y'alls blogs and write a few posts myself!

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Years Eve! See you in 2010!

Hugs, Ara and the Addams Family

Off topic: The 8 ball!!

2009-12-10T16:25:00.004-06:00

I just got thrown the 8 ball by Tabitha of Tabitha Corsica. Please check out her blog and all the wonderful projects she has posted on there... I dare you to visit and not be inspired!! She's fabulous!

Well I am learning that the 8 ball consists of answering 8 questions and then throwing it to someone else. I like these because you get to learn a little about your fellow bloggers! So here goes:

Names that I am called: Ara, Ara D., DiAnn.... and in highschool... Pumpkinhead

Three Items I am wearing: Ballet flats, scarf, and sweater (and pants ... added that so there'd be no confusion on the fact that I am fully dressed :)

Three things I did yesterday, last night and today: Yesterday I had a fight with Target (yes the store... I am not their biggest fan at the moment). Last night I processed some photos of my new second cousin (so cute!) and Today I will be wrapping gifts at my good friends house :)

Name two things you have eaten: I ate a sandwich from Panera Bread (had a lunch meeting), and I will be eating Pizza later as I wrap gifts :)

Two people I have rung today: Target..... to tell them just what I think of their whole 'shipping and return' policies.... and my husband to tell him congrats on his finishing all his finals with good grades!

Two things I will do today: Wrap gifts, do the dishes (ick).

Three Best Loved Drinks: Diet Dr. Pepper ( I have to be careful because i get easily addicted to it!), Chocolate Milk, and Apple Juice.... yum.

Three Things I Intensely Wish:

1) I wish everyone would have a great Christmas and not get wrapped up in the gifts, stores (ahem....Target), and money and remember the real reason for this holiday.

2) I wish that everyone who is ill or have a family member who is ill or in the hospital would be better by Christmas and be able to be home and happy with their families.

3) I wish for a new job..... I pray for a new job.....

Thanks Tabitha for throwing the ball to me!

And now I am throwing it onto Kate of The Whittaker's Miniatures! Have fun!

Morticia, my first doll, is finished!

2009-11-30T22:30:00.002-06:00

Here she is, all dressed and wigged and everything. I am pretty proud of her although there are def a few things I will do differently next time!! But I think for a first try I am pleased. Her shoulders are very broad and akward mainly because I didn't account for having to attach her arms. That's my biggest regret... so I will def pay attention to that next time. Plus her dress is a little more Edward-Scissor-hands-esque than sleek-and-chic.... but hey I'm just glad she has clothes!!! I need to get over my sewing-phobia before I start any of the other characters!! But she has some nice curves and a little sex-appeal for Gomez so I'm happy. I might try again, but I will definitely keep this Morticia around as she is my first doll and that's worth something!

Thanks so much to everyone and for your advice!!! Going into the wigging was the scariest part of the whole thing but I think it came out the best! So thank you so much!

And now that I have the Mrs. of the Mansion hopefully she'll agree to help me out with a future post.... showing you around the mansion so far (there's still not much so don't get too excited...)

The miniatures don't fall far from the tree....

2009-11-29T21:16:00.005-06:00

Just wanted to share a cake that was made by my mom!!! This was made for a Halloween party at her job. She made mini tomb stones with the names of products they don't sell anymore. I just thought it was awesome seeing as I just made mini tombstones for a swap not too long ago! Besides making cute mini tombstones.... my mom makes one heck of a cake!! I hear it was delicious.

Happy Thanksgiving from Ara and Wednesday

2009-11-25T12:25:00.010-06:00

Addams Family Values Film (1993) by Paramount Pictures

Thought you all would enjoy a little Thanksgiving Pageant a la the Addams Family. This is a clip from Addams Family Values. Wednesday and Pugsley have been forced to go to summer camp and also forced on to performing the Thanksgiving play. This just goes to prove..... don't make Wednesday angry and then make her the leader of other angry kids and then expect her not to form an uprising. (BTW Pugsley is the one in the giant turkey suit)

Clip uploaded by Youtuber CorkdorkDan, Addams Family Values film (1993) by Paramount Pictures

Have a Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow! And remember, never trust Sarah Miller!

Hugs and Glares, Ara and Wednesday

Disclaimer: I do not support buning people at the stake, etc.... This is just a fun clip from a fictional movie having to do with both the Addams Family and Thanksgiving. Also I am not trying to force any views on people regarding the Pilgrims and Native Americans... please enjoy the clip in good fun :) Also please do not try this at home....or at camp!

Long time, No Post - Swap Reveal!!!

2009-11-24T12:18:00.004-06:00

Hello to everyone! Lots of things have been going on over here ....good things! So yay! Anyway.... I am finally getting around to posting somethings that are WAY overdue! This will be the first of many update posts coming (I'm saying this so that I am commited to posting them so as to not let you guys down :)

First of all, here is a swap I was involved in through my Miniatures group, All Things Mini. The theme was Addams Family Halloween!! haha - how perfect for me right?!? So I got to work thinking about what I would make (you had to make one for each person in the swap). So my thoughts landed on the last scene of the first Addams Family movie. Its halloween night and the family wants to play a game! Of course!! Wake the Dead! So here I have created a tomb stone, rule book and dirty shovel so every one can join in.

Here is what was created by the fabulous Cate. Look at all the Things!! I think I will have him coming out of Gomez's closet (as if he's been playing dress up!!)

And lastly a man-eating plant created by Christina Pardy. It will go strait into the Addamses kitchen. There is funny story about customs you can read on Cate's blog.... but we're pretty sure this is the little guy that threw the customs guys for a loop!

Things to come (so you guys can keep me accountable):

-Awards (several)

-A dressed and wigged Morticia

-Update on status of the Mini-Mansion

-Newly aquired Addams decor

-Grandmama's BED (made for me and its absolutly stunning!)

-A bed I made for Cate (once she gets it in the mail)

-Update on Murph and Esmey's humble abode

Phew... I better get cracking... good thing I have a bit of a long weekend coming up!

Hugs, Ara and the Addamses

Need Help with Morticia...

2009-11-02T21:41:00.004-06:00

Calling all doll makers....... I need a bit of help.... I have no idea how to give her hair!!! Ack!! Where do you guys get the hair that you use? Any good tutorial videos out there for this? I found one but it didn't quite work with the doll hair I had (it was very stiff and just bad).

Well, this is my first doll attempt... its been really hard to keep her the right size and proportion.... not quite sure how you guys do these ... and so beautifully.... and so quickly!

any advice would be great! PS. Morticia requested I add the black bar.... she's so modest :)

Thanks, Ara

Off Topic: 'Up From the Basement Swap' for Rosanna

2009-10-30T21:18:00.007-06:00

Well, the sad news is that Rosanna has not received this yet. The Italian mail service is up to its old tricks again. I'm just praying that it gets there!!! please please please!!!!

But Rosanna has asked that I go ahead and share what I made for her since I'm supposed to post all the Swaps tomorrow on Halloween!! (which I probably will do at midnight - hehe - can't wait!!)

So without further ado, and with you seeing this for the first time along with Rosanna, here is was I made for her.......

Rosanna and I participated in the "Up from the Basement Swap" by swapping with each other. You can see what she made for the Addams Family a few posts back or see Rosannas post here :) Rosanna told me that her favorite Halloween characters were pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns. So that's what I made for her... and I made it coming up from the basement.... oooOOOOoooOOOOoooo

Here you can see a back view, which I personally think looks kind of graceful and elegant ... haha. He comes complete with pumpkinhead, leaf hands and feet and completely wrapped up in his own vine :) He's made out of polymer clay with a wire armature.

Also, his head is removeable for two reasons... one reason would be if Rosanna wanted to make other heads for the body with different expressions, the other reason being if she wanted to put just the head by itself as a carved pumpkin in a scene. Also he is detachable from the stair case, which she can also use anyway she chooses.

And there you have it. Sorry it didn't get to be a surprise in the mail Rosanna but I hope he gets to you very soon as he is supposed to be around for Halloween!!! Oh well :)

To see all 6 of the Swaps together, please go to my Clue Blog. I will be posting it tonight at midnight!! Happy Halloween Rosanna and all my fellow bloggers out there!!!!!!

Jar on my shelf.....

2009-10-25T20:57:00.002-06:00

Husband: Uhhh.... what's that?
Ara: All the dolls that died while waiting for me to build them a house.....
Husband: oh.

(I actually just bought some of those skeleton garlands everyones been talking about and dumped them all in a glass jar for storage... didn't even think it would look weird ... haha)

Up from the Basement Swap from Rosanna!!!

2009-10-25T20:51:00.009-06:00

As you can see from the lovely goodies pictured above, have received my "And it came up from the Basement" swap from the talented Rosanna!! And I am just thrilled to pieces!!! Rosanna told me that this old chest came up from the basement and was filled with this lovely items for an Addams Family picnic!!! Just look at all that was wrapped up in there!! A hand stitched picnic blanket, 6 monogramed plates, 6 vampire napkins (or placemats which is how I think I will use them in the formal dining room - won't they look great??) and two fantsticly gothic looking serving platters!!! Of course my favorite part is the picnic blanket.... and just look at these little sequin spiders:

Rosanna, you are a genius!!! I would have never though of using sequins for the spider bodies!! They are just too adorable!! And can you believe those tiny stitches - and can you believe it - the floss glows in the dark - perfect for the moonlight!!! Rosanna, thank you so so so so much for this lovely swap. The Addams Family and I are just over the moon about everything :)

And in case you were wondering if the Addams Family would be able to put this to good use...... well of course!! Who doesn't love a midnight picnic under the moonlight:

Image from Original TV Series by MGM Home Entertainment

Yum!!!

PS. Stay tuned to my Clue Blog for the Halloween day reveal of all the Swaps. (Provided they all arrive in time!!!)

This is how I feel about work right about now.....

2009-10-20T19:35:00.004-05:00

Image of Lurch from Original TV Series by MGM Home Entertainment

(In case you couldn't tell, this is Lurch's frustrated face... I think...)

Its LATE and I am still at work and will probably still be here for many hours to come. As of right now I have been sitting in my cubical for 12 1/2 hours strait........ four gray half walls surrounding me :(

I realized that I have not seen the sun all day.... now I see how the people in Alaska feel.... its really confusing and disheartening.

But alas it will be over 'soon'. Maybe..... they won't tell us for sure. *sigh*

Ok - that's my little sad post for todays blog... back to the drawing table... literally.....

****

And not to leave this post a total bummer.... a couple more Addams Family Fun Facts:

Fact #1 - Wednesday is named after a poem by Mother Goose (believe it or not) called "Mondays Child is Fair of Face" here is the poem in full..... you can see how 'Wednesday' fits the character well:

Monday's child is fair of face

Tuesday's child is full of grace

Wednesday's child is full of woe

Thursday's child has far to go

Friday's child is loving and giving

Saturday's child works hard for a living

But the child born on the Sabbath Day

Is fair and wise and good and gay.

What Child are you? I was born on a Sunday almost 26 years ago (and hopefully I'll be back to being 'gay' after this night is over!!).....

Fact #2 Wednesday's middle name is 'Friday'.

Have a great rest of your Tuesday!

Off Topic: Murph and his new Lady, Esmey

2009-10-13T19:19:00.004-05:00

Just to update you on some news.... You remember my friend and hired model Murph? Well the other day he came strolling across my desk with his new WIFE!!! No wonder I hadn't seen him around lately... Though I haven't really had a ton of work for him (as you all could probably tell!!)... Anyway I figure he would have at least invited me to the wedding. Oh well. They say it was a small wedding. Anyway, his wife's name is Esmerelda (Esmey is was he calls her for short). Here is her pic:

It's a horrible picture as they wouldn't stop their evening walk to let me take a better one.

Well today Murph informs me that he thinks its rather unfit for him to bring his new bride home to live in somebody elses house while its being worked on (meaning the Addams Mansion or Bentley Manor).... So I agreed that as a bride I would have been frustrated with that situation too. SOoo I have promised to build them their own little cottage. Its in the works right now. I gave myself a time limit so I wouldn't dilly dally and actually finish something!! I will upload pics of their cute little house when I get it done!!

Hope everyone's doing well! -ara

The Addams Family Musical

2009-09-28T11:07:00.005-05:00

Not sure if any of you have heard, but I have, seeing as I research my dear Addams Family all the time. But they are just now coming out with the ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL! on Broadway! How exciting right?

Nathan Lane will be playing Gomez and Bebe Neuwirth will be playing Morticia! I can't wait to see how they do. I know a few people have their reservations regarding Nathan Lane but I like to think the people that do casting know a little bit about what they are doing!

It seems to me like they will be basing it off some of Charles Addams original cartoons. I sadly will not be able to see it anytime soon in person but if any of you have the chance to, please let me know how it is!!! Hopefully there will be a version I can buy on DVD or something if I don't get to go :) The hubby has promised to take me if they ever bring the tour down through Texas!!! Yippeee!!

Anyhow, if you are interested in more information you can go here.

Hope everyone is doing well..... hopefully I will be able to pick back up on my blogging soon! Hugs!

100 Followers and a bit of Addams Trivia!

2009-09-24T13:55:00.010-05:00

Well, this week I must say has been a bit crazy and emotional for me. I started a couple posts where I was going to rant (about my job) and scream but I erased them. I really would like this blog to stay uplifting and about miniatures - haha. Anyway, no worries, things are getting worked out :)

BUT all this to say what a wonderful week for me to hit 100 followers!!! You guys just made my day. I am just floored that there are even 100 people out there interested in my little project thats hardly even off the ground (or desk). haha.

Thank you all so much!!! You are a big part of my day even if you don't know it. I love reading peoples blogs and reading comments and it especially helps on the rough days at work. So thank you all from the bottom of my heart!!

So to celebrate (since I have no minis ready for the occasion - that I can show...) I have put together a little list of Addams Family Trivia Facts..... its not much (there is more but I am just putting a few for now... more to come later in a contest or something...)

ADDAMS FAMILY FUN FACTS:

The Addams Family was originally a one frame cartoon drawn by Charles Addams in the New Yorker.

Photo of Charles Addams

When the Addams Family was originally created, none of the characters had names.... they were given their names for the creation of the television series.

Addams Cartoon, Property of the Tee and Charles Addams Foundation

Charles Addams got to name all the characters, except he wanted Pugsley's name to be Pubert, which the network found to be too sexual sounding so they changed it to Pugsley. That is why the baby in the second Addams Family movie is named Pubert.

Image from Addams Family Values by Paramount Pictures

The Addams Family TV show was the first ever to show passion in a marriage. Morticia is always talking about 'later'....

Image from Orignal TV Series my MGM Home Entertainment

Carolyn Jones, who played Morticia in the Addams Family tv show, was once married to Aaron Spelling.

Image source unknown

More trivia and fun facts to come down the road...... Thanks again everyone!! Hugs, Ara

Off Topic: Around the House Creating Contest

2009-09-17T07:56:00.004-05:00

I am a member of All Things Mini and every quarter we have an 'Around the House" Creating Contest where you use a household item to make something. This quarters material was DRYER LINT!!!! It was no easy task to come up with an idea. But my husbands recent surprise to me of taking me to 'Ripleys Believe it or Not' gave me this idea:

Not only does Ripleys have a bunch or weird looking creatures (like a skeleton made of half monkey and half fish - The Figi mermaid), the museum displays things in a really interesting way.

So here is my version. He is the Elusive Closet Monster..... and he is really confused on why he's stuck in this display case!!

The contest has not been judged yet but all entries have been submitted so I figured it was safe to post him up! Anyone have an idea for a name?? :)

Off Topic: The Sweeney Todd Chair

2009-09-17T07:45:00.005-05:00

I am sure many of you have already seen this chair on Kate's blog but I wanted to share it here too! It took me a little bit to get it working. And whats a Sweeney Todd chair without the ability to dump people out??

Here it is in the upright position. All you have to do to get it moving is take the 'pedal key' out.

Here you can see it going down slowly (with my help) otherwise it flips backwards rather fast.

And here you can see Murph helping me out with the photos. He didn't have a problem helping since the actual 12th scale Mr. Todd was across an ocean with Kate. So he had no worries :)

Hopefully I will figure out how to upload a video of it working soon. I just didn't have time last night. Oh well.

Just want to say thanks again to Kate for this wonderful swap!! I had sooooo much fun!

Hugs!!! -ara

Apologies - Yay for Fall!!

2009-09-16T08:13:00.004-05:00

Hey guys, so sorry I haven't been posting lately. I have lots of mini-projects going on but many of them are swaps or contest entries and I can't post them quite yet! You'll probably have a rush of posts from me in a few days or so - haha!

I am really getting excited for fall.... its starting to rain a lot down here in Texas which means the holidays are right around the corner! I feel like carving a pumpkin!!! Anyone elses favorite part taking out the squishy guts???

I got it!!! My swap items from Kate!

2009-08-30T22:06:00.006-05:00

If you missed Kate's post about a week ago, I will fill you in.... she and I are doing a swap and I just got my items from her!!!! They are all for Grandmama's basement are they are more perfect than I could ever imagine!!

She made me this lovely cabinet of items that will be one of the centerpieces for the basement! Its got potions, scrolls, toadstools, (and my favorite) the most perfectly worn stack of books on the bottom shelf! I ALWAYS see Grandmama with her nose in a book. She just loves these! Below you can see Thing checking out the cabinet.... I think he likes the Bat details on the top!! :)

She also sent me these lovely objects to work into other cabinets and parts of the basement. Wednesday has claimed the wooden box of spiders (but being a good sister she shared the rats that were also in there with Pugsley! Also Grandmama has been practicing her curses with the skulls Kate sent. She's been chasing around Murph trying to curse him into a pile of firewood for her cauldron!!

And here are the other lovely bottles she sent. I am trying to think if I have time this week to mess with some Michael's hutches so I can get these guys a home!! They're just too cute not to be on display somewhere!! Look at the little skull top on that bottle!

And last but not least Kate sent me a Halloween issue of American Miniaturist with this article in it! It - is - so - incredibly - perfect!!! for the Addams house. It has this wonderful how-to article for making old distressed siding for houses. I will be studying it like crazy and trying to replicate it on the Mini-Mansion!

Thank you soooooo much Kate!!! You are so amazing and the whole Addams Family thanks you (and me too of course) for helping me on my poor neglected project - haha! You are inspiring me to get a few more things done on it this week! My pretty things need a home!!

Off topic: here's a pic of me from this weekend. My hubs took me on a surprise date....

Don't be too jealous....... he took me to the wax museum here in DFW.... haha so this is not the real Mr. Depp :) But they do a pretty good job huh? Thought you would like this Kate, haha!

Even the Addams Family plays with Dollhouses

2009-08-27T12:54:00.006-05:00

Everynow and then at lunch at work I watch an episode of the Addams Family on Hulu.com. If you don't know about that website yet you are missing out!! They have episodes from almost every tv show you could ever think of.

Anyhow today I was watching this episode and to my surprise the opening scene was of Gomez finishing building a dollhouse.... complete with King Kong on the chimney. But as you know the Addams Family 'plays' in a different way than we would. If you have a week stomach beware of the pictures below.... yes ... that's a wrecking ball!!!

And here was the closing scene, Gomez and Pugsley added a bit of pyrotechnics to their play time :)

All images from Origianl TV Series by MGM Home Entertainment

Happy lunch time everyone! -Ara

Something's moved in!!! Also: 50th Post!

2009-08-20T08:06:00.008-05:00

Well, the other day while I was busy with real-life chores and everything that has been keeping me from my minis and beloved blogland, Murph caught my attention and called me over....

Remember that hole in the back of the organ and we were all wondering what made it? Well I don't know what made it but something has certaintly made itself at home there.... just look:

Do you see him? Look closer:

Do you know who that is??? Its Aristotle!!! Pugsleys Octopus!!! I didn't realize how impatient these Octopus fellows can be and he just moved himself right in. I guess he doesn't care that I haven't had time to build the house or even a nice aquarium for him. He's just gonna live in the organ until I get the house done I suppose.

If you haven't heard of Aristotle its because he is rarely seen (but he is mentioned a few times). But here you can see him in a Charles Addams drawing with the Family at the beach (he does look pretty impatient there too - I should've known).

Addams Cartoon, Property of the Tee and Charles Addams Foundation

Also, as you can see from the title - this is my 50th post!! Yay! Thank you all for following along all this time!!

Also, also, remember about the Circle Swap I am hosting on my Clue blog if you are still interested. We are now up to 4 people, so its on for sure! It'll be a blast and you'll get a fun mini in the mail right before Halloween!

Off Topic: Circle Swap

2009-08-12T11:34:00.000-05:00

I am hostessing a Circle Swap on my Clue Blog.

Head on over if you'd like to sign up!! -Ara

Off Topic: Now a chair for Piglet

2009-08-10T18:35:00.003-05:00

Some of you may remember that towards the beginning of this blog I made a chair for Pooh for Tara who owns The Dollhouse at Pooh Corner. Well now I have made a chair for Piglet! Here it is with Murph trying it out :)Some of you may be wondering about the watermark across the photo.... I am thinking about selling some of my furniture on etsy under Bentley House Productions. Once I get everything set up I will let y'all know! But until then I am just trying out the copyright bar!!

Off Topic: Photo Challenge

2009-08-04T20:38:00.003-05:00

I got the photo challenge from Kate from the Whittakers Miniatures and also Debie from Piskies and Poppets. Thanks for passing it on - I love this one!

The challenge is to go to where your photos are and to open the forth folder and find the forth photo and post it to your blog and explain a little bit.

So here goes:
This is one of the photos I took of our puppy Audrey while trying to come up with a Christmas card. In the photo my husband is tapping on the background to make her look behind her and up (like Santa is coming)! I got a lot of fun ones... maybe I'll show those around Christmas time :)

I pass this on to anyone reading this that wants to do it!! I was just itching to do this one because I loved seeing what everyone came up with! So please except the challenge and show us a piece of your photo collection!!!

Off Topic: DH's for awesome prices on Craigslist...

2009-07-29T14:14:00.004-05:00

Anyone in Texas, in the DFW area that has a bit of room and about a hundred dollars.... take a gander at these:

http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/art/1277113272.html

http://dallas.craigslist.org/ndf/tag/1266120054.html (new in box!!)

I emailed these to my hubby and got back "One project at a time please". Hmmmm... guess he doesn't remember I have TWO giant houses going on right now :D

Anyhow... just thought I'd post for anyone with a little more room (and more time) than me!!

Morticia had to have one too....

2009-07-27T20:02:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone.... phew.... the Garage sale is over and I couldn't be more happy!!! We have just enough to buy a new kitchen table set!!! yay! and I am getting a big one to lay out all my lovely mini projects :)

Speaking of... now that things are getting back to normal I just had to jump on the bandwagon and make one of these wonderful cans that Marlies has a tutorial for on her blog. Morticia needed one for the conservatory.....

It's a lovely tutorial that I was able to play with in between the craziness of the weekend! It was too much fun... you have to try it :)

Off Topic: Alice in Wonderland: More images and Trailer

2009-07-24T07:59:00.002-05:00

Just saw this link to new images and the short trailer for the movie!!! It's gonna be good!!!!

Click here.

I'm a lucky blogger!!! Gifts!!

2009-07-23T21:19:00.003-05:00

Whoo hoo!!! Thank you Kate and Tabitha!!! Kate was so gracious to send me a copy of the ever so popular magazine that so many of our blog friends are in, along with several mirrors and frames for my dollhouses!! There is even one to match the frame I used for Gomez's bedside table... so now morticia will have a matching one on her side! And I just love the big lumpy gold framed mirror too - that will have a center place at Bentley Manor :)

Tabitha sent me some of her skull beads to try out her wonderful cadelabra idea! Don't you think it will look perfect in the Mini-Mansion?? I hope I can do the idea justice!!

Thank you both for the wonderful gifts. Now continuing on with chores.... and pricing garage sale stuff.... gosh I have a lot of junk!!!

Anyone else having a busy few weeks?

2009-07-23T08:02:00.006-05:00

Just wanted to say sorry for being so quiet lately! Things have been crazy around here and the Mini-mansion has taken a back burner!

I am hoping after this weekend to get back into gear! We're having a garage sale this weekend and the whole house has been turned upside down!

Set 0f Origianl TV series by MGM Home Entertainment

But the amazing thing is that the room where the dollhouses are is shiny and clean!!! Just waiting to be messed up by a good days work!

I also plan to get some plans down on paper for Bentley Manor... its been soooo neglected.

Anyway... off to get my thoughts/plans in order!

Gifts from Tara!

2009-07-13T21:14:00.003-05:00

This week I was lucky enough to receive a package from the lovely Tara of The Dollhouse at Pooh Corner!! She found some lovely presents for the Addams Family and sent them along as a "House Cooling" present!! She also sent a few things for me though:

There are several Hawaiian products, such as chocolate covered macadamia nuts, pancake mix, these really yummy caramel and chocolate treats and Mauna Loa nuts! (by the way did you know that my aunts name is Mauna Loa - haha - I call her Aunt Mauna) And so much more including a calendar and a book, I just kept pulling out treasure after treasure!!

And here is the miniature part of the package!!!

There's a beautiful hall rug, a pewter carving set!, 2 kits (one for a light and one for a gown!!) and a few weapons that she picked out for the Family! I think its called a Halberd, a flail, a butchers knife and a dagger!!! Also there is a classic Addams Family phone!! So perfect!! And Tara was so gracious to send some of her sketches from watching the Addams Family! There are some things in there I have missed so I will be looking for them Tara!! You have such an eye for detail!

I had a few of the Family members pick 3 their favorite pieces... Morticia picked one of the Pewter plates, Wednesday picked the flail (she thought Pugsley would like it too), and Gomez rather liked the Halberd (he said something about being able to reach that itch on his back.....)

Thank you Tara, so much for the lovely gifts!!! Your chair is in progress and will be winging its way to you sometime soon!

Much love, Ara and the Addamses *snap snap*

3 New awards from Sans, Marsha and Mary!!

2009-07-13T19:33:00.007-05:00

I got several awards in the past week or so and I finally have time to sit down and address them all. Thank you all so much for them!!! The Addams Family says thanks too!

The first award was from Sans! She gave me the Reader Award which is so fitting to come from her as I LOVE all her stories. She translated the title to mean "Passages of the Story" which I agree is a really cool phrase.

For the reader award I have to grab the book closest to me and read the 5th sentence on page 161. So here goes.... I have a fun coffee table book near me called "The Hollywood Guide to Romance". There is only one sentence per page and no page numbers... so i am just gonna pick a page towards the back and tell you the sentence... they are generally pretty funny :)

"Try to keep those rituals of daily hygiene out of sight so that your partner can continue unhindered to worship you as a deity" - hahaha

*******

My second award came from Marsha! Thank you so much Marsha! I love the look of this one - haha!
For this award I am supposed to tell 10 things about myself.... that y'all don't know. Soooo lets see....
1. My second and third toe on each foot are somewhat connected to look like a 'Y'. It's a hereditary thing because my mom has it.
2. I met my husband online :) - hehe
3. I used to live in the Carribean
4. My wedding had a 50's touch to it... tea-length dress, rat-pack music, and rootbeer floats!
5. My husband and I just recently formed obsessions with Bonsai's (we have two on the mantel)
6. I collected elephants all through my childhood - I have a HUGE collection
7. I could eat pizza for every meal! I know that's bad!
8. When I was young I had a horse sit on me... and break my leg!
9. My husband is mowing the lawn right now.....
10. There is a green sauce at a Restarant called "Los Cucos" that rocks my world. I am craving it right now....

*******

And my third award was the Bella Sinclair Award from Mary! Thank you so much Mary!! I am glad we can all inspire each other! This award comes along with this note:

Ces wrote, "I designed this award to celebrate art in the blogs and to honour the value of friendship, sisterhood, sharing and caring. It is to be awarded to the gifted , accomplished, eloquent and talented blogger, whose friendship and influence inspire us to do our best. That I named it after Bella Sinclair is because she epitomises all of these things."

Thank you all so much. It means so much to me that you guys would think of me when giving out awards! And now to pass these on to some other bloggers I know! Since they've built up on my (I know - my bad)... I will give each out to two bloggers I know....

For the Readers Award, I would like to pass it to:

Eileen of the blog Eileen Sedgwick. All of her creations seem to have a base in some sort of history or art so I figure it'd be interesting to know what's in her library!!!

Inhae of My Milk Toof. I don't think she does awards but just wanted to highlight her blog seeing as she tells wonderful stories with a single photo! She's been doing a summer series this past week. It's too cute!

For the Honest Scrap Award:

Eliza at Wasting Gold Paper. She just got a beautiful new house that I am excited to see come together!! Also make sure you scroll to see her breath-taking painting skills!

Sumaiya Mehreen at The Fantasy Forest. She finds the most beautiful eye candy!!! Please check out this blog but be prepared to stay awhile!

For the Bella Sinclair Award:

Tara at The Dollhouse at Pooh Corner. Tara has been so helpful to me in searching for things for the Addams Family! She always has an eye out for them! She just sent me a wonderful package you will see in a future post! check out her fantastic Pooh Dollhouse!

Kate at The Whittaker's Miniatures. It's been great getting to know Kate lately! And she has such wonderful imaginitive projects going on right now! Her creativity is never ending!

Addams Family Give-Away WINNER!!!!

2009-07-10T20:03:00.003-05:00

And we have a winner....

But first here were the drawing results....

The Favorite Character (for this give-away) is: WEDNESDAY (2 pts for this one)

The Character Lotto drawing came up as (1pt for any of these in the right order):

1. Grandmama

2. Gomez

3. Lurch

4. Cousin Itt

5. Wednesday

And the winner is SAVANNAH THE MINI-MAKER (with a grand total of 4 pts)!!!

Congrats!! The family is so happy that you will be receiving one of their family heirlooms. They hope your dolls get many a good nights sleep from it! Please email me at afminimansion@gmail.com so I can get this sent to you as soon as I can (it'll be early next week :)

And thank you to everyone who entered! I will have more give-aways in the future so stay tuned! And just a BIG thanks to all of you again who read my blog. Love you guys! -ara

Addams Family Giveaway: 75 Followers!!!!!

2009-07-07T07:11:00.010-05:00

This morning I woke up to 75 followers! How fantastic is that?? Of course I informed the Addams Family and, being the generous souls that they are, they immeadiatly started planning a giveaway. They went through many ideas but it was Uncle Fester that volunteered one of this favorite nail beds. The family just loved the idea of helping some of their devoted followers get a good nights rest. It has even been lovingly labeled "Rest in Pieces" by some member of the Family. Here you can see Murph modeling the bed for everyone (Murph is not included in the giveaway ;):

Yes, those are real nails and they are really sharp (just ask my fingers!).

I just want to say thankyou so much to everyone who has followed this blog! You guys are so fantastic and so encouraging!!! And I hope whoever wins this lovely nail bed can put it to great use in one of their creations!

Here's the rules to win:

Copy the following ballot into your comment....

My Favorite Character is:

Lotto drawing order:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

And now all you have to do is tell me your favorite character out of the following character list (this will be the first drawing):
Gomez, Morticia, Grandmama, Uncle Fester, Lurch, Wednesday, Pugsley, Cousin Itt and Thing.

And then pick 5 of the above characters in order of how you think they will be drawn (this will be the second drawing and you can reinclude your favorite character if you like). You get 2 points if I pull your favorite character (first drawing), and then one point for every character you get in the right order (second drawing)..... confusing enough? haha. Its just like the lotto but picking characters instead of numbers. A final draw will be held for anyone that comes out with equal points :)

Here's a sample ballot (this in no way reflects what the final out come will be - the order will be pulled at random):

My favorite Character is: Morticia

Lotto Drawing order:
1. Uncle Fester
2. Pugsley
3. Lurch
4. Thing
5. Morticia (I reincluded my favorite character but you don't have to if you don't want to)

I will post the lotto results and the winner Friday evening (7-10-09). You have to be a follower to enter but you don't have to be one of the first 75... if you join after this post we'd love to have you!!!

Also, Cate of Solet Luna answered the fastest on the bullet question a few posts ago so, Cate, you get an extra point added to your total!

Good luck everyone!!! And thanks again for all your support!!!!!

Ara and the Addams Family :)

I finally found some help! Meet Murph....

2009-07-02T21:05:00.004-05:00

Well, it's been a long and hard search but I finally found some help!!! See... I don't have any dolls yet to help me size and proportion and I don't want to just going buying tiny people willy nilly! So I have been searching and searching and searching...... and searching for the perfect sized wooden model to help me with my minis. Why did this search take so long? Because the only sizes I could find in any store was 4 1/2", 8" and 12" tall!! And none of those help!!!

But anyway... I would like you to meet Murphy (Murph for short). He's a perfect 5 3/4" tall! He has come to help me with both houses so you will see him here (The Addams Family Mansion) and also at Bentley Manor.

Here you can see him meeting Thing. Thing wasn't sure at first but I think it'll be fine. Thing's a great hand model but I needed someone with a whole body to give me some perspective on the Mansion :)

Also, I'll be away from the computer this weekend as it is Independence Day weekend! and I will be with family celebrating! I didn't know Canada Day and Independence Day was so close together - how fantastic! I hope everyone is having a great time celebrating their country :)

Off Topic: Wedding Chair Parts Breakdown...

2009-06-30T21:44:00.006-05:00

I had several comments from people asking me what I made the back of the wedding chair (that I made for Sans) out of. So here is my big secret. It actually all started with my dogs tearing apart some outdoor lights.....

Here is the main part of the back. You can see where it originally came from here.

After they tore up the lights I was pretty upset but then when I started looking at the individual pieces I saw the mini-potential!! I always check what you're about to throw away for mini-potential!! I just took an xacto and started splitting up the light cases and all kept all the pieces for when I need them.

Also the flowery parts on the chair are actually from clothing embellishments. I just clipped the metal teeth off of the back and carefully applied them to the chair. Then painted the whole thing to look like one piece! The rest of the chair is basswood that I cut to fit.

And there you go... that's how the chair came together...

Also, you might also recognize these outdoor light parts in the back of Lurch's organ:

Computer Issues

2009-06-26T21:16:00.001-05:00

This is Ara's Mom. She will be away from her computer for a while and wanted me to let you know that she appreciates your comments and e-mails and will get back to you when she regains access to her computer.

Off Topic: 4 Easy steps to better Photos by Ara

2009-06-26T01:39:00.014-05:00

I had a friend here in blog land comment on the photographs of my minis and how I did it so here is my post for her and anyone else frustrated with photographing their minis!

I don't thing I have told y'all much about it, but I have my own photography business on the side (besides my day job) So I thought I would share a few tips on how I get some of my photos to come out ok. I am a portrait photographer so photographing minis has been a new challenge for me and so I've played around with it a lot. So anyway here is a tutorial on how to do this:

If you click on the photo you can see a bit better that the first picture is blurry and the second is tack-sharp! And several other differences. And the following well help you get there.

Also, thought I would share a bit of my work with you since I haven't done that before. Here's a couple portraits.... can you tell I love the dramatic? Of course this is done with big stand lights and big backdrops, and lots of photoshop but we'll do something a bit more simple for our minis.

Here is my camera set up below.... Now don't freak out. I know not everyone is going to have this so I have tailored my tutorial around a camera type that most everyone will have. I digital camera with a retractable lens and built in flash. Below I just wanted to show you the parts so you can see how we are adapting them in the tutorial below.

The bottom item is of course, the camera body and lens. The part above that (in the 'L' shape) is the flash that I have turned to the side. And then at the very top, the weird bowl-looking thing is called a diffuser. It takes the light from the flash and scatters it all around instead of shooting it strait at what you are photographing. This makes a softer and more pleasing light.

Now to start the 4 easy steps..... We'll start with the 4 main things that went WRONG with the left photo at the very top.

1. The camera was handheld and not secured to a tri-pod. This makes it easier for the photos to come out blurry - esp in dark conditions.

2. The background is muddled with all sorts of stuff that steals a persons eye away from the mini (Greta the doll, our model for today)

3. Greta is being flashed head-on by a flash creating a harsh shadow and glares off her face.

4. The camera was held too close to Greta for it to properly focus.

Side note: I am not suggesting this be done for every single photo you take. Sometimes you just want to snap and go... I do that too (even for this photo tutorial). I am just wanting to give help to those who are struggling getting really crisp photos of their final work.

Fix #1: Get a tripod and put your camera on it! It will help, trust me! You can get a very cheap tripod these days and its worth it when photographing your hard work. All cameras ( I am pretty sure) have a hole in the base that looks like a screw would go into it... that's where the camera connects to the tripod.

Fix #2: Make a mini-studio with a chair and a black or white cloth. I always grab one of our kitchen chairs that has arms. This way I can drape it with fabric all around and it makes a little cave-thing for my minis to be photographed in. You can even use bedsheets for this method (but maybe not ones that are too busy looking).

See Greta is all ready for her close up!

Fix #3: Home made diffuser: All you need is a clear plastic cup, a square of paper towel and a rubber band. This will function the same as the diffuser you saw on my set up above. You simply hold the entire contraption in front of your flash. The only tricky thing about this is that it doesn't acutally snap onto your camera most of the time. Also, you will have to be careful that it doesn't show up in your picture while you are using it.

I suggest to make one of these, and set aside a day to practice with it. moving it different ways can sometimes have different results. It can get frustrating at times but just walk away and come back when you feel like it. Also if you are tired of holding the cup-diffuser, some cameras do make snap on diffusers so you can look and see online. (But you can see how the tripod would also help here...) (sorry about the chipped nail polish - eek!)

Fix #4: Don't force your camera to shoot too close to the object. Many lenses on cameras have a definite limit on how close they can focus. If your camera is not focusing correctly back up and try again. Most newer cameras have a high enough resolution so that you can take a large picture and crop only what you want to see and still have a decent shot. Below you can see how far back I was from Greta before my camera focused properly.

And now this last photo is the final photo cropped from the one above. Yes, this was taken by my little red camera with the home-made diffuser in use so you can see what any camera can do. Hopefully you can click on it and make it bigger to see the detail. You can see the detail in her hair and the stitches in her clothing. Now don't you want people to see that after all the hard work you put in?

Also I did a bit of color correction that is very easy to do in photoshop. However I know a lot of people aren't too excited to spend that much on photoshop. If you look for Photoshop Elements it is a bit cheaper than the full blow version. Also you can look up the program called 'Picasa'. It is FREE!! to download and super easy to use. It also funtions as an organizational tool for all your photos. I am still learning its ins and outs but I think its a great program.

Well I hope this helped a bit for anyone getting frustrated with photos. If anyone has any question please leave a comment and I will try to answer!!

A gift to Sans and the Maharajah from the Addamses...

2009-06-25T10:48:00.003-05:00

To thank Sans! for her beautiful one-of-a-kind hookah that she sent to the Addamses, they sent over a handmade Indian Wedding Chair. Please head over to Sans blog and see the wonderful reception of the chair in the Palace! I hope it will participate in many happy marriages to come!

And once again thank you Sans! (and Tara!)

Mini Guessing Game Fun!!!

2009-06-21T19:07:00.002-05:00

These are my new cups for the Addams Family dining table!!! The look all old and banged up and I love them!!!!

And now for the game part....

First person to leave a comment correctly guessing what these items were, are or originally came from, get an extra point on an upcoming give away. Not sure when the give away is going to be, but don't worry, I will remember :) I really don't know if this is going to be easy or not...

Let the guessing begin!!

The Light Award :)

2009-06-21T18:26:00.003-05:00

We recently received the light award from the Whittakers over at The Whittakers Miniatures!!! Thank you guys!! We are really so honored to receive this one as I have seen they've been going to really special people all over blog world. I love the idea behind it and the rules that go along with it.

The Rules of this Award:

1.-To complete the following phrase: I AM A LIGHT AND WANT TO ILLUMINATE...

2. - Link the blog from where the award came from and leave a message informing that person it has been received.

3.- Link and pass the award to five blogs that, in your opinion, are blogs of light.

So here goes.... I am a light and want to illuminate God's love to everyone. God has really been there for me in my life and I pray that anyone who feels led would run to him too. He walks with me daily through life and I would not make it one step without Him.

And now to pass it on to 5 blogs of light:

My sisters blog at Imperfect Saint. She right now is in a small town in Brazil working with young children and teenagers and teaching up a storm. Its going to her for bringing light into many childrens lives this summer.

Sans over at Dollhouse Diaries. Her stories are always delightful and she sheds light on the beauty of a culture other than my own. I love learning new things through following her projects.

MiniKat at Little Thoughts From an Average Mind. She is getting this award not only because I enjoy her blog of course but also because back when I first started this whole blog thing I remember she made me feel very welcome!! Thank you for that!

Also to Tara at The Dollhouse at Pooh Corner. Tara is such a generous soul and I have really enjoyed getting to know her. You can see her light all the way from Hawaii (lucky girl)!!

And lastly Nikki at Witch and Wizard Miniatures. She is always willing to lend her brilliant ideas to anyone who's stuck on a project and the lovely face she sculpts into her minis will light up anyones day!! :)

I know some of you have received this one already but I just couldn't help myself! Thanks for lighting up my day you guys :)

Don't you think Fester is the perfect guy to present this award? I told him he should have presented it with the lightbulb in his mouth... oh well...

Off Topic: Kinda: ATM Swap - Behind the Castle Walls

2009-06-20T20:38:00.002-05:00

So I recently participated in a swap at All Things Mini and the title of this one was "Within the Castle Walls".... So I guess still being Addams Family minded I went straight for the dungeon and made this....
And I had to make 3 of them!!! It was too much fun :) Well besides putting in all those little nails - ick! Anyway, so far I think the three people that got them liked them!!

I hope to make a nail bed for Uncle Fester soon.... :)

Somewhat tutorial in Aged Windows, Walls and Door....

2009-06-20T19:41:00.007-05:00

So I am not really going to call this a Tutorial because I am not giving step by step instructions... just kind of sharing my tools and thoughts on how I made the wall in the previous post.

Below you can see the new door that I bought. The Alison Jr. door just didn't have enough character for me and I didn't want to spend a ton of time bashing it so I just spent the $7 on a new door at hobby lobby. I aged it with the same tools you can see below that I used on the window frames. I still need to add some plexiglass to the top tiny four windows and maybe some more leading.... anyway it functions as an opening door and everything... need to find a decent door nob though...

Below you can see how I modified the original Alison Jr. windows. They came with a pine colored frame and white painted stripes to look like window mullions. What I did was banged the frame up a bit, stained it, sanded the edges of the plexiglass to make it look foggy/older, and then went over the white painted lines with fake leading (I posted a pic of the bottle of that stuff below). If you want to do this remember it is important to SAND THE PLEXI BEFORE YOU DO THE LEADING or you will most definitely have to slap yourself on the forehead.

Here are the basic tools I used to beat up the wood frames of the windows and door. A box cutter (or a xacto will work too but the box cutter is bigger and doesn't hurt my hand as much), a couple files, and some sand paper. I dig the big gouges you see in the frames with the box cutter and then I make lighter gouges with the files. Then I sand the whole thing over to make it look rounded and well worn. don't be afraid to gouge into the sides of the frames either... make it look like someone rounded the corner too fast with a peice of furniture and took a chunk out :) PS. I do this all before I put it into the wall.... I just happened to show the window already in the wall here for some reason...

Here you can see the fake leading I used. This is the big bottle... you can get a smaller 3 or 4 oz. bottle for smaller projects. You can find it in the isle with the peices of glass and plexiglass most of the time.

Also, very last tip. So I wanted to age this sheet paper (scapbook paper) that I am using as wall paper with my stain. BUT the paper absorbed the stain so quickly that I couldn't work and let me do it in layers as I wanted to. So i decided to paint on it. So anyone wanting to do this DO NOT use acrylics. They are water based and will crinkle and wrinkle your wall paper. If you want to use paint, use oil paints. My suggestion is look for a tube of 'yellow ochre' OIL paint. It will grunge and yellow anything up :). Then you add a bit of turpentine to the paint slowly and it will thin out the paint so you can paint in thin layer and build up to the intensity of color you want. My suggestion is to add the turpentine by getting a bit on your brush and then putting your brush into the paint and keep doing that 'til its thin enough for you.

Feel free to ask questions if none of this makes sense. Also, I wouldn't suggest painting anything else in your house with oils as oils take FOREVER to dry. This is really the only thing I would use oils for - just to 'tint' a wall paper without wrinkling it. And the turpentine is smelly so beware...

Ok - that's it. Sorry for the long winded explanation. Look like I still have some touch ups to do on the windows looking closer at the pictures..... anyway happy dirtying :)

Yay! Interior Progress!!

2009-06-18T21:54:00.002-05:00

Ok- its not much, and there is still trim to do..... and a column to put in the middle there.... and well lots more... but here's a quick peek at my first wall I've been working on!!! Excitement!

So some of you might be thinking .... yellow? Well, its a darkish yellow. And the whole house is gonna be so so dark that I need something light in there. Also.... I have been enjoying the Addams Family TV show sooooo much and they are just so cheery that I wanted to reflect that just a bit. There really is a remarkable difference between the mood of the tv show and the mood of the movies.

Anyway, if you are wanting to check out any of the old Addams Family tv shows, make sure and visit Hulu.com. they have almost every tv show ever made I think....

Mail Call: A gift from Sans....

2009-06-11T21:06:00.012-05:00

The mail came today!!! Thing answered it as usual and found a package from Sans to the Addamses!!! I knew what it was but the Family was clueless. You can see Thing showing off the contents of the package below:

Its a Limited Edition Harem Hookah from Sans! Pipe Dreams!!!! Also in the package were several skeleton hands that I believe will be worked into a cooky chandelier!!

As you can see the Addamses have been enjoying the Hookah for many years now and are very proud to own their very own Sans!! (but when should we inform Thing that he might have a slight issue with this activity??)

Image from Original Series by MGM Home Entertainment

Thank you Sans for the beautiful Pipe! We all love it!! The Addamses have something for you as well to represent their gratitude. Thing will be dropping it in the post sometime this weekend!!

Hugs from the Mini-Mansion, Ara (and thankful glares from the Addamses :)

Working on the Master Bed.... going for ooky...

2009-06-09T22:19:00.004-05:00

So yes ... I have been procrastinating on the house again by working on more furniture. I am in the process of making Gomez and Morticia's bed. I constructed it and stained it and then wanted to put something ooky on it in the center. I thought a monogram but I came across this Egyptian beetle symbol and it just struck me. The Addams love Egyptian antiques and it seem just ooky/charming enough for the bed. What do y'all think??

Now just to work on the bedding...

Also, below you can see the bed before I finished it... it was for a Spring Cleaning contest on All Things Mini!! Here you can see my lovely dog Clemy helping with the laundry (I wasn't happy with the flocking on the dog but it was my first try)! And I won second place!!! (Never mind that there were only 2 entries - haha). Tara won first place. You can see hers here.

Now everyone repeat after me "Ara, stop messing around and go work on the dang HOUSE!"

Lurch's Organ on Fluffy Bricks!

2009-06-04T08:04:00.002-05:00

I am so honored that Lurch's Organ has been featured on the blog, Fluffy Bricks!! Please head on over there and check out all the gorgeous miniatures Living finds and showcases. Thank you, Living, for the lovely write up :)

You can go here to find my original post about the organ and if you are intrested in how the keys work you can go here.

The fate of the Blue house as been decided....

2009-06-02T22:30:00.003-05:00

.... and boy are the Addamses glad to get their blog back :)

I watched a few movies last night for inspiration.... a couple of them recommended to me :) But I finally decided what the Blue house must become:

I am chronologically starting the story of Bentley Manor after that whole fiasco with Mr. Boddy so that they stories, rooms and even weapons can even be left up to my imagination :) But of course the well known and lovable (cough cough) characters will remain the same.

Please visit my new blog Clue: Murder at Bentley Manor to follow along with this project. It will go a bit slower than the Addams Family Mansion because I promised not to neglect them :) But I will post whenever I get something for it done! I am just glad to have a direction before I start renovating... this way I can keep some of the natural creepiness from the oldness of the house if I need to :) Thanks for all of the ideas! -ara

Off Topic: Update on the Blue House

2009-06-01T09:53:00.002-05:00

Its a 'Dura-Craft VH-600 Victorian'. I can't find much on it so I am guessing its somewhat rare?? Anyone heard of it before? Also... as you can see mine is missing the original tower. I am liking the idea of possibly adding the tower back on. We'll see....

Gonna do some deciding on a direction tonight and then will post a link to the new blog for this new project... the Addamses would like to keep this blog for their own :) Thanks everyone for the super ideas! So many possibilites are swimming around in my head right now! -ara

I've been tagged twice! Oh my!

2009-06-01T08:31:00.004-05:00

So awhile ago Julie Campbell from Bellabelle's dolls tagged me and I am just now getting around to it! Yikes! Please go visit her blog and check out her beautiful creations!! and please go a few post back and make sure you get to her "Old lady who lived in a Shoe" post. The little children are just precious!!

Also I was recently tagged by Beyondbaffled. Go to her blog and make sure you check out the antics of her adorable little dolls!! Currently she's working a Saloon that I can already tell is going to be spectacular!

I am gonna skip tagging people this time since I did so about a week ago or so... I'll tag again the next round ;) Instead I'm gonna list 6 tools I haven't been able to live without this week as I have been working:

1. My box cutter..... forget the xacto knife (that thing hurst my hand!) the box cutter is king!

2. Tacky Glue... I love you!

3. Not exactly a tool.... BUT I love my 1/2" thick peice of plywood cut the perfect size for my lap and my storage cupboard that I do projects on. It's easy to move and can take quite a beating!

4. My set of metal files... boy those things work fast and get into the smallest spaces!

5. My new sculpting/carving tools... they are so tiny and so helpful.

6. And lastly ... this thing .... my new favorite friend :)

BTW - Happy beautiful Texas morning to anyone reading this! Today is starting out wonderfully as work just made a wonderful annoucnement! I won't be specific but lets just say it frees up my time to do more on my minis - yay!

Off Topic: I heart Craigslist: My $5 purhase....

2009-05-31T12:18:00.005-05:00

I am calling this the 'Blue House Mystery' because I am still trying to decide what to do with this new house of mine. I found it on craigslist for $5 and I am super excited about it. It's somewhat rough looking. Through the roof is well built it is not attached, the painting is pretty bad and some of the siding was put on upside down??!? haha - but the walls, floors, and base are very solid so I think it can be bashed and sanded into something really spectacular. I really think I found a great deal!!

So ... two questions:

Anyone recognize this as a kit? I think it might be from a kit but have never seen one like this personally. Also, I think its pretty old, but it could just be covered in dust making me think that.

Anyone have any ideas on what I should do with it? The Alison Jr. reminded me immediately of the addams family mansion, so that one was easy.... this guy I can't quite pin point what it should be. My initial thought was a murder mystery house... like the game/movie Clue?? Might be fun for me to try and hide clues and people to figure out what happened? I dunno.....

Up, Up and Away we go....

2009-05-27T21:33:00.005-05:00

So FINALLY some of the walls have gone up!!! Now - if you are a seasoned dollhouse builder don't freak out... not all these pictured walls are glued yet so I still have room to move around a bit. And the floors are really darker than they seem in the photograph. I also included the organ for scale. It is a large piece but it kind of makes me concerned for how much room I really have..... so not as much as I thought.

Also, I love seeing all the stories of people cats getting into their dollhouses (as long as its not a complete destruction story... those are so sad) so I have included a picture with the most curious creature living in my house.... Audrey the dog. I think she licked nearly every piece of this dollhouse as I unpacked it from its box...ahhhh :(. But I took a picture of her so possibly I can prove to her that she does not fit in the house AT ALL and that it is not for her... not that pictures help with this one :)

You Awarded?

2009-05-27T18:20:00.004-05:00

We have been awarded by the lovely and talented Jodi Creager from Creager Studios. Please go by her blog and see all the wonderful things she creates and how much character she can squeeze into a tiny tiny face!!!

Thank you so much Jodi for this award (it was for all us lucky ones following her blog). I so enjoy reading through your blog and seeing your creations and getting a kick out of your stories!!! I think you're probably the only blog I've read that posted solely for the purpose of a nice doll-bum!!! And that's what makes your blog great!!

Much love, Ara and Addamses

My first "printie" completed and I like it!

2009-05-22T21:57:00.004-05:00

So here it is.... I saw this frame at Hobby Lobby and thought it looked just goth enough to fit into the mansion ok. So this one will be going on Gomez's night stand!! For scale... those yellow lines mark one inch squares.ahem... pardon the saw dust :)

We just hit 50 followers!

2009-05-22T09:35:00.008-05:00

Wowwwwee! 50 followers to this blog and I don't even have the walls up yet! Thank you so much to everyone who follows this blog and gives comments and helps me along! Really, its knowing that people are interested in what I am doing that keeps me going sometimes. You guys are all so creative and are so inspiring to me and I just really appreciate getting to know you all.

BTW... #50 follower is Karina of Kabidesigns. She makes the most beautiful pendants! Please stop by and see her creativity at work!! I believe you can also buy her objects as well so be prepared!

Hugs to each and everyone of you, Ara (and the Addams family - although I believe they would rather shake hands than hug.... :)

Colors and a Rug!!!

2009-05-21T19:48:00.004-05:00

Oh wow its been a busy week!! Lots of stuff going on here at the house and to top that I have a swap going on at All Things Mini!!!! Oh man... i am just about to finish them up and send them off tomorrow. I will post pics of what I made and what I got when everyone's recieved their packages. This swap is called "Behind the Castle Walls". So I am hoping there will be a few things to interest the Addams family!!

Also, Tara at Pooh Corner found this awesome deal on Ebay and got a fur rug that she didn't want (along with something else she did). THANK YOU TARA!! She let me know about it and we made a deal and now its mine! And its soooo perfect. It will be going in Gomez and Morticia's bedroom for that little bit of romantic flair ... oh la la! Its in the picture below (btw - its soooooo soft!)

Also with the rug I just wanted to post my color palette I am thinking of for the house. The grey color on top is just for simple highlights in different areas... the overall will hopefully be pretty dark.... but lively :)

I got tagged.... and I need to issue an award....

2009-05-19T09:31:00.005-05:00

I got tagged!!! My first time too... I was tagged by Debbie over at Tiny Treasures and need to tag some more people!!! Also I need to issue some awards as I got one yesterday :)

I think since I have double duty I will do 3 for each thing for a total of six blogs being tagged/awarded ... so here goes....

for the Butterfly award I would like to give it to:

Texas Belle at Myrtlewood Manor if you haven't been over for a visit GO NOW!!! The detail in this place is jaw droppingly amazing. I can only pray for the patience this woman has!!!

Tallulah~Belle at Tallulah~Belle Originals . She recently made some beautiful foxgloves for Nikki and if you haven't seen them look here!

And finally Debbie over at Tiny Treasures! Even with seemingly her entire herd of ponies giving birth she manages to keep up with everyone and with her own blog! She's an amazing lady! Check out her cute ponies too!

Also here are my TAGS ( I decided to tag some of the newest blogs I am following!)...

Eileen Sedgwick who just recently sculpted one of the most beautiful paintings in history (I think).... check it out!

De at De-lightful Minis. She's got one thing my current project is lacking... COLOR!!! And I love it - check out her bright minis! They'll brighten your day :)

Minna at Linnanneidon Lokikirja. Proof that you do not have to speak the native language to enjoy the beauty of someone elses creation! Check out her majestic scenes :)

And lastly .... I will add one thing that has made me soooo happy lately (and is def NOT unimportant!!).....

My wonderful, loving, forgiving husband who puts up with all my craziness and occasionally sits down to help me cut out my millions of mini-peices! I am so lucky to have him! Love you Kev!

The Addamses and I won another award!

2009-05-18T20:13:00.005-05:00

We have been awarded very generously by MiniKat at Little Thoughts from an Average Mind.

Thank you so much. I am also so honored that you feel we are have-the-dh-over-the-shoulder read worthy as well!! As always this award will only make me work harder to try and keep from disappointing my lovely followers!

Lately I have come across many MANY cool new blogs so I will take my time coming up with a few blogs to pass this on to! I will add to this post when I decide!

Thanks to you all! -Ara (and the Addamses)

Trying to fill out Grandmamas Basement....

2009-05-14T22:58:00.004-05:00

Heard a distant rumor somewhere that Michaels might stop selling their hutches... so I decided to pick up a few for Grandmamas basement. She'll need several shelves for potions, 'parts' and spices :) Also possibly a cabinet for Uncle Nick-Nack from the first movie - haha! I always thought that was hilarious.

Anyway - I'll really have to beat these up and de-frill them a bit but I think it will be fun! Plus I just had to pick up a couple trunks for Wednesday and Pugsley. I hope to wood-burn a few pirate images in them... possibly.....

Going out of town for a bit, but will be back to finish floors, start putting together the house and beat some furniture!!!

The Addams Floor...

2009-05-10T18:25:00.004-05:00

Well the Alison Jr. comes with its own wood floors... a pine looking sticker with grooves in it. Soooooo not really what I was looking for in my mansion. I thought I would have to cover it all up with wood floors to get the desired look BUT I decided first to not be wasteful and attempt to change what I had. So I took my box cutter, files, sand paper, and stain and came up with this. The first pic is 'before' and the last two pics are after.

What do you think - good enough for the Addams Family?