4 Stars

I had this piece about halfway done when I saw the challenge over at Simon Says Stamp and Show.  This week they are looking for flourish.  I don't think I would have added these if I had not seen this post.  I love how they add an element of visual movement to my geared fireworks. I debated heavily about adding some sparkly stickels to my gears, but ended up forgoing that.  

The base of the piece is an old children's book, you can still see the cover on the back and I think I just may leave it that way.  The background, and central balloon image, come from the latest installment from Graphics 45.  I cannot wait to see what they will soon be releasing.  My mind has been reeling ever since reading Nancy Wethington's blog post about the upcoming CHA release.  What could it be???

I used some Holtz goodies as usual; seasonal paper stash, the numeral four, grunge board cut with his flourish die, a ticket, tissue tape, broken china ink and matching distress stickels.  The military badge was purchased at Micheal's on sale.  I hung it with some scrap chain and long fasteners. 

The imagery chosen has personal meaning to me.  In the areas I have lived and worked they have festivals that the images represent.  Every Fourth of July, Battle Creek, Michigan has an air/balloon show.  Also, in Marshall, Michigan there is a Cruise to the Fountain festival, where all the hot rods come our to show off every year at this time.  The word "star" was also picked due to it's connection to me and my online handle.  At the bottom it reads, "There is no place like home."  I am always missing my family extra around the major holidays! 

I almost forgot to talk about the ribbon!  I altered this ribbon under the guidance of one of my artsy pals Joanne Huffman.  She is awe inspiring with her creative endeavours.  Anyway, at our last Multi Media Mavens (M3) meeting here in Kalamazoo, she taught us this technique.  We used silk ribbon and rich dyes to get messy and make some lovely embellishments.  It was great fun.  I look forward to continuing to weave my hand dyed treasures into my work!