Two Stray Cats

Two Stray Cats Etsy-versary Giveaway Draw!

2010-03-01T11:40:00.013-07:00

Today was the day to do the draw for the Two Stray Cats Etsy-versary $25 Gift Certificate Giveaway and so I asked my little furry helper Koru if he would like to pick the winner ...

One of Koru's favourite games is to play with scrunched up pieces of paper so I knew he would be excited! All the names from the blog and facebook fan page comments are in the bowl ....

Oh the anticipation of all those little pieces of paper just below!

And whoosh! ... there they are! and he has gone for one!

As you can see he was pretty darn fast (and blurry!) straight under another table with the winner! I had to be fast to recover it!

And the winner is M Vegan 5 ~ Michele who happens to be the wonderful team leader of the EFA ~ Etsy For Animals team!

who left this comment about her favourite animal and why ...

I love so so so many animals, especially our adopted kitties and foster puppy, but ... I love baby chicks because they are adorable, sweet, fluffy, and because the male chicks are discarded in the egg industry, it makes me so sad.

Congratulations Michele!

Please convo me with your email address so I can send your $25 Gift Certificate to you :)

Thank you to all who entered!

It's Two Stray Cats Etsy-versary!

2010-02-17T10:03:00.003-07:00

It's Two Stray Cats Etsy-versary today! And to celebrate I am giving away a $25 Gift Certificate to one lucky winner.

All you have to do is tell me which is your favourite animal and why ~ no points for guessing mine :)

Winner will be drawn on March 1st :) to coincide with the end of the buy one, get one free Two Stray Cats sale :)

Either leave your comment here (on the blog) or over at my Facebook Fanpage :)

Good luck!

Lily, Sam and Koru

Two Paws Up ~ Sammy and Koru All Dressed Up

2010-01-08T14:00:00.005-07:00

I am so excited and thrilled to unveil the purr-fect portraits of my two handsome fur people created by the very talented Cindy from Hot Digital Dog!

Cindy was an absolute joy to work with and I can hardly wait till the photographs arrive and I can display them as any proud Mum would :)

Kiwiana Kete and Paua Pillows

2010-01-07T13:12:00.007-07:00

Kiwiana (New Zealand) inspired set of two pillows

The front of each cover features a cool collection of kete baskets, paua, shells, flax and feathers set against a jet coloured background.

The reverse of the pillow cover is made from a solid black cotton with a lower bottom envelope style opening that is secured with two wooden buttons.

Available at Two Stray Cats

Winter Bird Silhouette Embroidery Pillows

2009-12-27T16:27:00.006-07:00

Single Black Bird On Branch

Two Black Birds In A Winter Tree

Reverse Of Pillows ~ Fabric Covered Button Envelope Opening

Available now at Two Stray Cats ~ Winter Bird Embroidery Art Pillows

Two Stray Cats ~ Gift Certificates

2009-12-19T11:12:00.002-07:00

Gift Certificates are now available at Two Stray Cats :)

See something you think someone would love but not 100% sure and you're in a hurry ? ...

PDF Digital File Gift Certificates are available now will be emailed lickety-split!

Professionally printed notecard Gift Certificates will be available early January :)

Wishing you all a very happy and safe Holiday Season

from Lily, Sammy Whiskers and Koru :)

Two Stray Cats ~ Back In A Winter Wonderland

2009-12-04T22:31:00.003-07:00

Hi everyone :) So here I am back from a most fabulous time in New Zealand :)

It was lovely spending time with my Mum and friends and luckily managed to see some sunshine too (arrived home to over a foot of snow!)

I've posted a little photo album to my facebook fanpage for those of you who would like to take a peek :)

Two Stray Cats ~ In New Zealand :)

2009-10-19T13:13:00.004-06:00

Hi everyone ~ just letting you know that I will be on vacation in Aotearoa (New Zealand) ~ "the land of the long white cloud" from October 21st - December 3rd :)

Thank you to everyone who has supported Two Stray Cats since I opened in March.

Please check back in December for some new and exciting creations! I am going to raid my Mum's vintage fabric and button collection from the 70's and earlier while I am down there :)

Sammy Whiskers continues to improve daily and has made a remarkable recovery since his accident ~ he is now in the care of Gabe ~ Mr Two Stray Cats while I am away :)

See you all when I get back!

Lily

Two Paws Up ~ Super Sam and "Team Sammy"

2009-09-24T16:31:00.025-06:00

We have just got back from the Vet with some absolutely fabulous news! The most wonderful news we could have wished for ~ as long as Sammy Whiskers keeps taking it easy he will not have to undergo major surgery to pin his bones :)
Here is Sammy's Xray ~ basically his whole sacral/hip bone area has been displaced and moved forward by about 2 cm ~ with lots of love and care the bones will "fuse" themselves in their new position and heal over time ...
It's safe to come out now little Koru ~ all will be well with your best buddy! and soon you will be able to spend lots of time with him again :)
and the only one who will be living in the cage enclosure we got Sam will be your little toy ~ Monkey! ~ we are going to donate this enclosure cage to the Innisfail Veterinary Services so that if anyone else ever finds themselves in this awful situation they can borrow the cage to alleviate the immediate stress of where to house their fur person while they sort everything else out :)
And with love and time you will be back to your old self Mr Whiskers!

Thank you to the lovely Lisa from MOL Stationery who first started the "Help Sammy" Etsy Forum thread ~ without you none of this wonderfulness would have ever happened!

and to these awesome Etsy sellers who kindly donated from sales from their own shops to help Sammy in his hour of need :)

Bambi ~ Deersprite

Carol ~ Chica Dolly and Faerie Good

Sarah and Juanita ~ Genuine Article , Genuine Art and Genuine Knits

Martina ~ Glass Circus

Karen ~ Aztec 721

Kathy ~ Willow Tree Designs

Ange ~ Dear Ange

Jaimie ~ Little Jumping Beans

Tara ~ Tara Fly Photos

Elizabeth ~ Wind and Honey

Laura ~ Laurart

Agathe ~ Meherio68

Sabine ~ Sybillinart

Joan ~ A Second Time

Shannon ~ Luminous Dream Designs

Cailey ~ Raynee Deigh

The Beaded Hound

GreytDogz

Millie Dog Designs

To all of you who sent personal well wishes, made purchases from these stores and from my Two Stray Cats shop to help Sammy and for everyone that made their kind donations directly thank you so very much.

Sam, Gabe, Koru and I will never forget your kindness and generosity ~ you will forever be "Sammy's Angels" and I will always hold you dear to my heart :)

Thanks to each and every one of you Sammy's vet bills and care costs have been covered in full ~ you have all been so very generous that a whole bunch of other furry friends will now benefit from your beautifulness! The rest of the money left over will be split up and donated to various animal charities ~ I'll keep you posted!

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us" Albert Schweitzer

All Hallows Eve ...

2009-09-13T13:08:00.001-06:00

Witch and her familiar ~ appliqued eco felt silhouettes on cream cotton

Two Stray Cats Creations

Two Paws Up ~ Tara Fly ~ Queen Of The Cats

2009-09-09T14:38:00.016-06:00

"Guinefurre, Queen of the Cats, sits regally upon her throne. The sunlight streams through the gothic arch windows, shining upon her dais and highlighting her gown, as she waits for the moment when she must formally address her people. In her tiny paws, she clutches a red rose. A gift from her King? Or perhaps a secret lover? "

Of all the wonderful talented artists on Etsy Tara Fly has come to be an all time favorite of mine ~ I am lucky enough to own two of Tara's original acrylic paintings and this new piece entitled "Queen Of The Cats" is on its way to me as we speak ~ a beautiful 8 x 10" reproduction of the original canvas printed on high quality, velvety fine art paper.

Tara and I share a love of all things feline and the Regency Period ~ her work is gorgeous both in original and reproduction form ...

To see more of Tara's artwork including custom Fantasy Portraits please visit her shop ~ you will be delighted with what you find ...

Two Paws Up ~ Paint All Night Studios

2009-09-02T09:39:00.014-06:00

This beautiful limited edition art print from the original painting"If You Love Someone" is created by Robert David Bretz and is part of his series "Simpler Times".

After a successful career as a commercial Art Director Robert left the corporate world to pursue painting on a full time basis. He is an internationally published and collected illustrator who has been creating for over 20 years.

I recently purchased an art card from Robert entitled "Follow Your Heart" which in itself was a true work of art, the colors and quality did true justice to the original painting from which it was taken and I couldn't have been happier when it arrived.

To see more of Robert's gorgeous work pop on over to his Etsy shop Paint All Night Studios

Two Paws Up ~ Purrfectly Presley :)

2009-08-26T00:06:00.008-06:00

This weeks "Two Paws Up" features the work of husband and wife team Doug and Joan Sturtevant from New Jersey

Doug's original acrylic on canvas entitled "Purrsley Sings" depicts a rock 'n' roll tuxedo cat sporting a classic 70's white and gold Elvis jumpsuit!

I wonder what it is that Purrsley is singing? ... perhaps ...

"You aint nothin' but a hound dog

Crying all the time ... "

To see more of Joan and Doug's folk art be sure to check out their Etsy shop :)

Two Stray Cats ~ Etsy Front Page :)

2009-08-24T10:35:00.003-06:00

Sometime early this morning as I lay sleeping the infamous "Cat Burglar" made her way to the Etsy Front Page! (third row down, left hand side) Woohoo :)

Happy Circles ...

2009-08-23T18:14:00.001-06:00

Fun, modern, bright and colourful ~ crib blanket, pillow and matching "take along snuggly blankie" :)

Two Stray Cats Creations

Two Paws Up ~ A.E. Ruffing

2009-08-19T11:37:00.015-06:00

This weeks edition of "Two Paws Up" comes to you from the heart of North Carolina Piedmont Region ~ midway between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Atlantic Coast ...

Welcome to the studio of A.E. Ruffing ~ a delightful array of watercolors, fine art prints and original art dolls.

This particular fine art giclee print features "Crybaby, Belinda and BoBo" created by studio-mate Max Bailey ~ a talented artist who sees the creation of a doll as a blank canvas, a way in which to express himself. Each of Max's dolls are OOAK and are brought to life through his own designs.

As a member of the EFA ~ Etsy For Animals team 10% of print sales (excluding shipping) will be donated to The Humane Society of the United States ~ way to go! That's sure to stop Crybaby shedding one more tear :)

To see more art from the studio of A.E. Ruffing and co please visit her Etsy shop

Two Stray Cats Blog Feature

2009-08-18T19:41:00.002-06:00

Today "Two Stray Cats" was featured on this blog

Thanks so much to Meghan for thinking of us and asking me to do this :)

You can see Meghan's beautiful jewelry over at her Etsy shop

What a wonderful surprise ...

2009-08-17T16:06:00.003-06:00

Today I received this absolutely beautiful painting as a gift from my friend Tara ..

It is titled "Dearest Lily", an original acrylic on canvas ~

Tara and I share a common love of "fur people", Pride and Prejudice, all things Jane Austen and the 18th and 19th Century ~ this painting has it all!

I am at a loss for words for how this painting and Tara's kindness has touched me,

I will treasure it always :)

You can see Tara's beautiful art over at her Etsy shop Tara Fly Photos

Pretty In Pink Looped Minky Blanket and Pillow Set

2009-08-17T12:05:00.003-06:00

Soft and scrumptious, swirls and curls, pink looped minky blankie and pillow set

Two Stray Cats Creations

Two Paws Up ~ It's Fun To Be One :)

2009-08-14T00:00:00.004-06:00

This weeks "Two Paws Up" celebrates my little fur person's first birthday :)

Happy Birthday Koru ~ exactly one year ago today Gabe rescued and brought home, a teeny tiny kitten covered in oil, hungry and incredibly thirsty ... In Maori, Koru means "new beginnings" ...

He's come a long way since that day ~ just look at him now!

Special thanks to Lisa from LiliesbyLisa for helping to "dress" Koru for his big day :)

Modern Pink Circles ~ Set Of Two Pillows

2009-08-11T11:31:00.003-06:00

Fun, modern, abstract and stylish ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Indigo Toile Cats ...

2009-08-10T16:28:00.002-06:00

Indigo toile inspired cats and kittens with a co-ordinated delicate blue check envelope opening and indigo satin ribbon tie ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Etsy For Animals ~ Upfront Treasury for Vicki Diane ~ 8 August 09

2009-08-08T20:31:00.003-06:00

Some of the faces behind the EFA ~ Etsy For Animals Team ~ are highlighted in this "Vicki Diane Upfront Treasury "

Me, Sam and "Charity Cat" are on the third row, left hand side :)

Thanks to Vicki Diane, Pey, Michele and everyone that made this come to life!

Flower Fairies Of The Autumn

2009-08-06T11:58:00.005-06:00

"Every Autumn the Elderberry Fairy implores the Fairy Queen to negotiate with the birds, for they are eating too many berries. The Queen listens patiently and works out a compromise" ~ Elderberry Folklore

Depicting the beautiful Autumn flower fairies from Cicely Mary Barker (1895 - 1973), a quiet, unassuming artist who spent her life illustrating many children's books ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Two Paws Up ~ WindandHoney

2009-08-05T00:36:00.013-06:00

This weeks "Two Paws Up" features fellow EFA ~ Etsy For Animals team member Elizabeth from Wind and Honey.

Elizabeth is a very talented artist who works in pencil, paint, collage and mixed media. She is also an art teacher (if she lived closer I would love to take lessons to improve on my limited artistic ability! ~ I am comfortable with drawing stick figures so she would have her work cut out for her :)

Her art focuses on the delight to be found in animals ... above is a graphite pencil portrait drawn from a photograph by 9 Lives Photography of the adorable Toby, a Norwegian forest cat who was lucky enough to find his forever home when he was adopted from Felines Inc ~ a cat shelter located in Chicago ~ way to go Toby ~ who could resist that face I ask you!

Two Stray Cats Blog Feature :)

2009-08-04T16:06:00.004-06:00

Today I was lucky enough to be featured on Nathalie Brault's blog ...

Click here to read the interview

and also here to visit Nathalie's Etsy shop Recupe Fashion

Thanks Nathalie :)

Be Nice ...

2009-07-31T00:18:00.001-06:00

This was one of the photos that Gabe took of me, Sam and "Charity Cat" ~ anyone would think that Charity Cat was filled with catnip the way Sam was biting into him!

Two Paws Up ~ Honoring Herb

2009-07-28T14:44:00.007-06:00

This weeks "Two Paws Up" is dedicated to my friend of 20 years in a fur coat Herb that I lost earlier this week :( Herb was a very special cat ~ he loved basking in the sun and sitting in the rain (a cat of all seasons), the sound of the cheese wrapper - he could hear that sound and be at the door in seconds waiting for his piece!, being told that he was "a special boy" and he is the only cat I know that would "shake hands" :)
I like to think that he's somewhere up there with his other furry friends ~ perhaps he could use this ticket pendent from Sara of Buster And Boo (in memory of her Sylvester) to gain entry ...

It seems that I've reached Heaven,

or it's doorstep at any rate,

and been winding round St Peter's ankles

by the Pearly Gates

I've plucked the angel's harp strings

and made a merry sound,

But it's plucking at my heartstrings

that you are not around.

So I think I'll sit and wait here,

just outside the door,

And as the souls come floating in,

I'll tap them with my paw.

And when you seek admittance,

they'll rename this place -

It will become Purradise

and these the Purry Gates!

Author Unknown

See you later Herbie :)

Silhouette Pillows

2009-07-27T11:06:00.008-06:00

Emily Bronte Silhouette Pillow (1820 - 1849) ~ English Gothic Novelist ~ author of Wuthering Heights who one year after having her only novel published died of tuberculosis.
Charlotte Bronte Silhouette Pillow (1816 - 1855) English novelist and eldest sister of the famed Bronte sisters ~ author of Jane Eyre.
Jane Austen Silhouette Pillow (1775 - 1817) ~ English novelist with great wit and a biting social commentary of her time. Author of Sense and Sensibility, Emma, Mansfield Park, Persuasion and my personal all time favorite Pride and Prejudice.

"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife" (Pride and Prejudice ~ 1813).

Two Stray Cats Creations

For The Little Ones In Your Life

2009-07-26T14:20:00.003-06:00

In honor of the birth of Delaney Anne (a dear friends new baby daughter) here are some softies for the little ones in your life :)

Chartreuse and gold ladybug pillow with cutie~pie snuggle bug and "I Heart You" charcoal and red playblocks for baby.

Two Stray Cats Creations

Koru and Sam's New "Fancy Wearables" :)

2009-07-24T13:02:00.004-06:00

These gorgeous tags were made by the very lovely and talented Angela from the Etsy shop DearAnge

Both Koru and Sam love their new "Fancy Wearables" ~

(as Emily from The Black Apple would call them :)

Thank you so much Ange!

Two Paws Up ~ mvegan5

2009-07-22T00:07:00.013-06:00

This weeks "Two Paws Up" honors the lovely Michele from mvegan5.

A vegan artist and teacher from California now living in Israel with her new husband Eyal and seeing eye foster puppy Whiskey (you should see what a cutie he is!), Michele is a tireless advocate for those that cannot speak for themselves.

She is the founder and co-leader of the Etsy Street Team ~ EFA ~ Etsy For Animals :)

Her beautiful artwork and jewelry are inspired by her love of animals and nature.

The above painting is one of Michele's custom pet portraits of Princess and Demetrious.

"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us". (Albert Schweitzer)

Thank you Michele for all that you do.

Summertime Stripe

2009-07-21T12:32:00.002-06:00

in red berry, white and watermelon wide ticking stripes

Two Stray Cats Creations

Fuchsia Damask

2009-07-20T15:14:00.002-06:00

Fuchsia damask print on crisp white background with black looped ribbon satin ties ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Nothing Like Growing Your Own ...

2009-07-18T19:47:00.001-06:00

The first tasty treats (hopefully of many more to come) from Gabe's vege garden

Two Paws Up ~ Schmoomunitions

2009-07-15T00:14:00.004-06:00

Well what an adorable face Barton the tuxedo fur boy has!

Julia the creator of Schmoomunitions works as a vet assistant by day, creates at night and on top of all of this manages to care for a group of feral kitties!

Part of the profits of her sales go to help this group of cats as well as EFA ~ Etsy For Animals charity's ~ kudos to you :)

Her shop name derives from her past furry friend Schmoo and ammunitions

"as in artillery, as in things needed to protect yourself from the harshness of modern life. So, having one of my artworks will protect your emotional state just like a bazooka!"

You're Such A Hoot Pillow

2009-07-14T11:55:00.003-06:00

Colorful cartoon character owls hooting it up ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Chocolate and Pistachio ...

2009-07-13T12:47:00.003-06:00

Traditional patterns in contemporary tones with gorgeous bronzed chocolate looped ribbon ties

Two Stray Cats Creations

Feel Good Friday

2009-07-10T00:57:00.004-06:00

Today I packaged up these two "Chinese Lantern" pillow covers and sent them down to Baton Rouge ~ Louisiana where they will be part of a silent auction to help raise money to complete a low cost spay/neuter clinic as part of The Cat Haven ~ a shelter and adoption centre for our friends in fur coats :)

The "Cat Tales and Cocktails" Fall Gala will be held on October 2 ~ anyone interested in making a donation for the auction can contact fellow Etsy member Aleta

Two Paws Up ~ Viva Le Chat

2009-07-08T00:28:00.007-06:00

This weeks edition of "Two Paws Up" features a knitted Neopolitan Ice Cream colored Catnip Mouse! ~ great for a day of fun in the sun for kitty.

What I love most about this little mouse is what he means to others ~ his talented creator Robyn donates one third of her earnings to imom.org ~ an organization that raises money for low income people who otherwise could not afford needed vet care for their furry friends.

What kind of mouse does your cat prefer ~ maybe 'Kitty Is A Sports Nut' or 'Kitty Has A Sweet Tooth' ... you'll find the purrfect catnip filled companion at

VivaLeChat

Fun N Furry

2009-07-07T14:07:00.001-06:00

Set of three fun and furry soft blocks ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Kitty Made It To The Front Page

2009-07-07T00:30:00.003-06:00

Thanks to the BelleFleurs lovely "Hello Dolly" treasury Miss Kitty made it to the front page of Etsy at midnight July 7th local time :)

A Bird In The Hand With A Splash Of Red ~ Set Of Two Pillows

2009-07-06T15:48:00.001-06:00

Black and cream bird toile inspired fabric with a splash of berry red ...

Two Stray Cats Creations

Pink Minky and Nursery Rhyme Toile Pillow and Baby Block Set

2009-07-06T00:17:00.003-06:00

pinky, minky, dimple-de-do ...

these playblocks feel amazing!

Two Stray Cats Creations

Two Paws Up ~ Etsy For Animals ~ Kitty Doll

2009-06-30T00:18:00.009-06:00

Katherine Jane or 'Kitty' as she is fondly known to her friends is a kind-hearted girl who loves all animals.

She is often found feeding and taking in stray cats, giving them saucers of warm milk or quietly sitting in the meadow talking softly to her friends in fur coats :)

She wears a full length, gathered, empire line dress made from cat toile inspired cotton fabric in shades of charcoal grey, cream and black.

Kitty has been made from the 'Jane Doll' pattern created by the very talented Sarah of bitofwhimsydolls ~ Thank you Sarah for your wonderful imagination and fabulous pattern.

All profits from Kitty go toward helping animals in need :)

She is currently living with her friends Charity Cat and The Cat Burglar over at

Two Stray Cats

Z is for Zinnia

2009-06-29T12:08:00.002-06:00

Modern stylized zinnia flowers pop against a chocolate brown background in this set of two pillows

Two Stray Cats Creations

Sunday Sam

2009-06-28T15:09:00.003-06:00

Dancing Butterfly Pillow Set

2009-06-26T12:23:00.002-06:00

Indigo and teal butterflies dance and flit against a background of pure white evoking the feeling of summer

Two Stray Cats Creations

Hey Hey We're The Monkeys ...

2009-06-25T12:56:00.001-06:00

and people say we monkey around :)

Two Stray Cats Creations

Two Paws Up ~ Meezette

2009-06-24T11:20:00.002-06:00

"I Will Look After You" is a delightful photographic print depicting the beautiful blue eyed girl Mei-Ling keeping an ever watchful eye while her sister Thailee sleeps peacefully under her arm.

To see more of Lorena's work check out her Etsy shop Meezette

Have a happy Two Paws Up Wednesday :)

EFA ~ Etsy For Animals ~ The Cat Burglar

2009-06-22T11:48:00.004-06:00

After being framed for a burglary she did not commit the Cat Burglar (infamous cousin of Charity Cat) has turned her efforts to the greater good, now helping other animals in need :)

All profits from the Cat Burglar go toward animal charity ~ you can find her living at Two Stray Cats

Whole Lotta Love ...

2009-06-18T17:53:00.009-06:00

Charity Cat has been quite the cat about town the past few days making his appearance in these three great treasuries ... and his first ever blog appearance outside of Two Stray Cats Blog :) ~ you go little guy ~ spread the word and help your fellow furry friends!

"For A Good Cause" ~ curated by The Shepherds Haven

"Perpetual Gifts" ~ curated by ZellBell
"Who's Chasing Who - Cat Or Mouse" ~ curated by Echo Endeavor
Tefi's Design Blog

Two Paws Up ~ Gemma Bear

2009-06-17T00:05:00.005-06:00

This weeks edition of "Two Paws Up" features the work of Gemma Correll from England.

It was very difficult to choose just one of her fantastic feline fancies but I finally settled on this one aptly named "You Are My Favourite" ~ a limited edition gocco print of an original drawing.

To see more of Gemma's gorgeous work check out her Etsy shop GemmaBear

Yellow Bird Collection

2009-06-15T13:21:00.002-06:00

Set of three designer pillows ~ graphic yellow birds and retro daisies with accents of black ribbon ~ now available at Two Stray Cats

and as always 10% of the sale of these pillows go toward helping our furry friends in need :)

Two In One Day

2009-06-12T19:06:00.005-06:00

Today I was lucky enough to be featured in two of the current Etsy Treasuries.

The first one "Celebrating Love And Animals EFA" featuring Charity Cat was curated by Michelle of mvegan5, and the second "Hello Lovely" featuring my little Earth Day Notebooks by thebellefleur

Thank you to you both ~ What a lovely way to start the weekend!

Two Paws Up ~ Tara Fly

2009-06-10T00:03:00.006-06:00

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love cats and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice!

So you can imagine my delight when I had the good fortune to discover this original acrylic painting by

Tara Fly.

Part of her Regency Cat series Mr Darcy (the brooding but ever so dashing Darcy) is a portrait of Tara's tuxedo cat Dominic dressed in 19th Century gentleman fashion.

"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife" (Pride and Prejudice)

and I for one am in want of this painting :)

EFA ~ Etsy For Animals ~ Charity Cat :)

2009-06-08T14:01:00.003-06:00

Introducing the EFA ~ Etsy For Animals ~ Charity Cat :)

All profits from this little guy with a heart go to help other animals in need!

This friendly little feline stands 8" tall and is made with eco-felt (he's an eco-conscious kind of cat). He's filled with just the right amount of fiberfill and lots of love.

Charity Cats Chosen Charity's include ~

The Happy Cat Sanctuary

The Red Deer Alberta SPCA

and the EFA Charity Of The Month

You can find him living with his pals over at Two Stray Cats

Two Paws Up ~ Funnytails

2009-06-03T00:05:00.003-06:00

These great cards are sure to put a smile on anyone's face.

The Adventures Of Sam and Dave are inspired by Lannie's two fur babies who manage to find themselves in all kinds of mischief ~ it's no wonder that a cat needs nine lives!

For other cat crusades pounce on over to Funnytails ~ located in Sleepy Hollow, New York (ok, I really wanted to write Sleepy Hollow!)

Pink Velvet On Cream

2009-06-01T12:08:00.003-06:00

Gorgeous to the touch!

Pink Velvet stylized elegant floral motif on cream background ~ now available at

Two Stray Cats

Play With Your Veges ~ Set Of Three Soft Blocks For Baby

2009-05-30T12:06:00.003-06:00

Who said that you shouldn't play with your vegetables?

Well here's some you can definitely play with!

Now available at Two Stray Cats

Two Paws Up - Onagus

2009-05-27T12:31:00.008-06:00

Introducing a new found favorite feline of mine ~ Lofidel who seems to be quite the cat about town!

Onagus' original ink and watercolor illustrations have been described as nostalgic, poetic and charming.

"My work comes from the heart, inspired by random inner feelings, dreams and moods" ~ Onagus

Two Paws Up - Kitty Kat Kards

2009-05-20T12:59:00.006-06:00

This is the first official post in my new "Two Paws Up" blog feature in which I will either choose a shop with a cat themed name or a feline creation which I have come across and fallen in love with!

These origami cards made by Tina of Kitty Kat Kards caught my eye immediately.

They are fun, flirty and fabulous - fitting for any occasion.

Naked Peggies - Go On Have A Look ...

2009-05-16T13:41:00.004-06:00

I came across this shop a little while back and as soon as I read Suzy's banner it put a smile on my face!

These adorable little wooden peggies come either Naked (unpainted) or Un-Naked (custom painted) and will travel from south of Boston to be with you.

What a wonderful gift for the newly engaged couple that "has it all" - a custom painted peggie couple to adorn their wedding cake, or a lovely way in which to celebrate your family, a housewarming gift, the ways in which a peggie couple or family could find their way into your home and your heart is endless!

To see other peggies pop on over to www.nakedpeggies.etsy.com

Go on ... Have A Look ...

I Heart You ...

2009-05-12T15:59:00.004-06:00

This is something new that I have been pondering on for a while now and I am very happy with how they turned out!

I started thinking about what I could make a dear friend in Seattle for her new baby (due in July) and this is what I came up with ... this is the one time that I hope that you are not reading this Laura!

Crafted from felt each block is approximately 4" square (10cm) and will make a playful addition to any baby's toy collection.

Now available in www.twostraycats.etsy.com

The Haunted Hollow Tree ...

2009-05-08T22:56:00.010-06:00

"There is a gorgeous old tree in the back roads of the country side out here where I live. It is gnarled and strange, and nestled in the middle of modern landscaping. It is a hollowed out tree, and unlikely haunted, but the eerie presence of this tree is quite inspiring" (Lauren - The Haunted Hollow Tree)

When I first found this shop I got chills (the kind where the little hairs on the back of your neck start to tingle and you know that you have had the grace to come across something oh so special) and knew immediately that I wanted to share the work of The Haunted Hollow Tree.

Nestled in Amish country Pennsylvania Lauren creates her pieces through the art of Pyrography - commonly known as 'wood burning' in which a heated tip is used to burn or scorch images into wood (and also leather).

The first piece of artwork featured is named "Seeking the Night" and the image of the windblown tree is called "Companions".

For more awe inspiring pieces visit Lauren's shop

http://www.thehauntedhollowtree.etsy.com/

Berry Red Tucked Pillow

2009-05-08T12:19:00.002-06:00

The latest edition http://www.twostraycats.etsy.com - a tucked pillow in Berry Red

Alberta Street Team May Madness Sale!

2009-05-02T13:02:00.004-06:00

The Etsy Alberta Street Team is having their May Madness Sale!

With 40 shops participating you are certain to find something gorgeous for you or a loved one!

The sale runs from May 1st - May 7th

Happy Shopping

To check out the shops and their fabulous deals click on the link below ...

http://etsyalberta.blogspot.com/

Pleated Purse

2009-05-01T15:05:00.005-06:00

The other day I decided to make a new bag and retire my old faithful one which I have used for the past four years ...

So here is my new 'Pleated Purse' thanks to the great tutorial created by Sarah
http://www.themikkelsens.net/sarah/journal/2009/03/pleated-purse-pattern.html

and also to BarefootTams blog entitled Saturday Slice - Purse's which is where I came across the link for the tutorial http://www.barefoottams.blogspot.com/

You just never know where the next creation will come from!

Two In One Day ...

2009-04-29T23:42:00.005-06:00

Today I was lucky enough to find myself in two treasuries!

Thanks to http://www.shastacreations.etsy.com/ for featuring my two fiery red notebooks

and also to

Lisa (fellow Albertan Team Member) http://www.liliesbylisa.etsy.com/ for including my Pastorale Pillow in all of its Elizabeth Bennetness glory!

Apple Hill Dolls

2009-04-29T12:14:00.004-06:00

"Oh to be as useful as the girl with birds' nests in her hair" Instead of simply stealing tufts of hair for their nests, these birds set up house" - (Sarah ).

This OOAK (One Of A Kind) art doll was created by Sarah of Apple Hill Dolls in New England.

Ms Brooding With Dove and Crow is sculpted from paper clay over a foil amature and then painted with acrylics. Her dress is fashioned from a vintage fancy hankerchief. The dove and crow nesting in her auburn hair are made with needle felted wool.

Although she looks a little dismayed at having these visitors set up house in her hair at least she will never be lonely ...

Sarah's other beautiful art dolls can be seen in her shop

http://applehilldolls.etsy.com

The Glass Whisperer ...

2009-04-26T12:26:00.004-06:00

This quietly beautiful Blue Breeze pendant comes from KanYoFuse's Glass Whisperer collection.

Kevin's interest in fused glass came about after he took a course at Bullseye Glass in Portland - Oregon 6 years ago and the rest they say is history.

Well I for one sure am glad that he took that course - his work is stunning!

For Kevin the art of fused glass is a form of meditation and relaxation

You can check out his other creations at

http://www.kanyofuse.etsy.com/

He also has a very funny story behind the inspiration for his shop's name but you'll have to ask him!

Taibossigai

2009-04-24T13:12:00.006-06:00

These paintings have been created by Donna of Taibossigai, an aboriginal native Canadian Ojibwe artist living in Edmonton AB, who is inspired by the aboriginal legends from different nations.

What I love about Donna's work is that not only are the paintings invocative she also gives back to two of my all time favourite causes - The Humane Society and The Nature Conservancy.

The profits from Ed The Siamese Cowboy Kitty painting will go to help out his furry friends who have not been as fortunate as him at The Humane Society

and the second painting's profits entitled Forest Raven With Sun will go to The Nature Conservancy Canada to help protect natural spaces.

Kudos to you Donna

her beautiful work can be seen in her shop

http://www.taibossigai.etsy.com/

What A Lovely Surprise!

2009-04-23T22:20:00.002-06:00

Today my set of two little Nursery Pillows were featured on the Front Page of Etsy!

I did a little happy dance (no one looking of course!)

Garden Party Pillow

2009-04-23T12:24:00.003-06:00

When I sat down last weekend to sew this pillow I was sure that Spring was finally here in the Great White North ... the sun was shining through the big picture window warming my back ... then the last few days snowing again!

Oh come back warm, sunny, springtime weather Goddess - I'll even give you this pillow!

You Rock Mother Earth!

2009-04-22T00:49:00.001-06:00

In honour of Earth Day - latest little notebook made using recycled paper

Super Heroes All Lined Up

2009-04-21T00:31:00.010-06:00

These guys are now in my shop - when Gabe saw the picture he said "Cool, they look like super-heroes".

The cover of each notebook is made from a heavy weight card-stock and embellished with a funky felt motif. There are 20 pages in each book (40 if you count both front and back sides) handstitched together with black cotton embroidery thread.

Happy Scribbling!

Happy Mail Day

2009-04-20T13:06:00.003-06:00

Today I recieved the custom cards and gift tags I ordered from Heather (fellow Alberta Etsy Team member) to send to my Mum in New Zealand for Mothers Day and also for my Canadian Mum (Gabe's Mum).

They are just adorable!

You too can have custom handmade cards for all occasions
http://www.hdawnparratt.etsy.com

Steampunk Journal

2009-04-19T15:51:00.002-06:00

"Steampunk is an eclectic world of clogs and rivets. It is airships, goggles and steam. It is romance. It is travelling on clouds and diving beneath rugged waves. It is adventure" Aether Emporium

This steampunk inspired leather journal is handcrafted by the very talented Rhonda of MyHandboundBooks in Nova Scotia.

The book incorporates a vent grill, perferated metal along the spine and a fabulous vintage sepia photograph of two women ready for travel and all the excitement it brings!

For more incredible book creations check out Rhonda's Etsy Shop

http://www.myhandboundbooks.etsy.com

Hot Digital Dog!!!

2009-04-18T18:27:00.005-06:00

Here is a fellow Etsian's shop I came across a little while back - Cindy from Athens Georgia has come up with this very cool idea - a custom portrait of your furry friend elegantly dressed in Victorian attire.

Also she goes to her local animal shelter once a week to take pictures for the newspaper of the animals there looking for their forever homes - kudos to you Cindy!

The TwoStrayCats will definately be having their portraits taken in the future ...

Put your best paws forward Koru and Sam!

You can check out her shop at -

http://www.hotdigitaldog.etsy.com/

Off To Seattle (well not till October but still excited!)

2009-04-17T12:15:00.010-06:00

I am so excited to be going to see some of my favourite friends later on this year - Laura, Clint, Emelia Jane, and a new little one due at the end of July (who will be around 2 months old when I meet him/her!).

The last time that I saw Emelia Jane she was only 18months old or so - now she is 4! Where does the time go ...

Classic Black and Charcoal Grey Notebook Set

2009-04-16T11:46:00.004-06:00

The latest edition to my Notebook Set Collection

Sleepy Best Friends!

2009-04-15T16:16:00.000-06:00

Funky, Fiery and Fun!

2009-04-14T12:04:00.002-06:00

I love pretty stationery ... whenever I make something for my Mum and give it to her as a little present she will never use it (I think she must have notebooks and books that I made her a decade ago un-used and put away in a 'safe place') .

These notebooks are made to be scribbled in - each one measures 4.1/4" x 5.1/2" (11cm x 14cm) and has 20 acid free, crisp white pages (40 if you count both sides) and is handstitched together with white embroidery thread.

The red stripe notebook is made with brushed cotton fabric that has been bonded with the same polka dot, heavier weight paper as the co-ordinated second notebook.

One, Two, Three, Four, Zzzzzzzzzzz

2009-04-14T11:16:00.009-06:00

There is something really special about creating for a baby ...

I made this set of two co-ordinated pillows with a nursery in mind - the size of each pillow is
13.1/2" x 11" (35cm x 28cm).

They are made with super cute cotton fabric and secured with a pretty grosgrain ribbon tie.

2009-04-09T22:30:00.002-06:00

Welcome to my Blog, and that of my Two Stray Cats -

who are now Cyber Kitties!