Serve it up

Occasionally I'll discover a large, sturdy bowl or tray in a second-hand store and completely redecorate it---like the handsome "Entanglement" tray or the distinguished
"Olde World" tray that are for sale in my shop right now!

These salvaged pieces have to be stripped of their original paint and finish; which is usually a very laborous task. The decoration and embellishment is determined by the character of piece, and I've yet to repeat any design. A clear poly resin substance hardens to create the thick protective coating on the working surface of the trays.

The usefulness of objects is very appealing, and I expect to have more handcrafted trays and bowls in my shop---for your enjoyment:)

Singer/Songwriter Mike Burnes

Nashville, Tennessee Summer 2008














The annual Songwriters Festival on Music Row was just the right ticket for my brother, Mike!



In fact, the actual ticket price is what you can afford to give. Mike jumped at the chance to meet industry professionals and other songwriters

... not to mention the abundance of his favorite distraction: guitars!!


We attended every aspect of the festival, and made good use of our time. Between the Professional Speakers and live stages, we covered alot of ground.

Mike was able to get his songs critiqued, (like Rebel Yell and Little Dixie Cups) and to make some good contacts. He later said it was time well-spent and may have saved him from 3 years of bangin' his head against the wall:)


It was so cool to have Mike in Nashville...I know he'll be back soon.

clickr on flickr

I'm finding myself on flickr and having
alot of fun with their viewing toys!

My favorite 'thang' is the slideshow, so I loaded a link on the pic above so you can try it! Just click the image once and the show will begin...

It's very sweet to login and find new comments or messages.

What a cool way to connect to other people:)

Wings of Love

When Chris and Hannah met...
love took flight as if it had wings.

Oh! to be young and in love.

Their romance flourished
and their passions grew deeper.

Chris and Hannah were married
on Pensacola Beach
at sunset on July 15th, 2008

I created this mini scrapbook for the bright couple
and presented it to them on their wedding day.

Best Wishes to my nephew, Chris
and his new bride, Hannah

Deep into the Wildwood

In August of 2005 a raging hurricane named Katrina was headed for the Gulf Coast---and I was constantly talking to my family on the phone as I finished painting my new workshop. When Hurricane Dennis hit, 5 of them evacuated to Nashville and slept in my basement/workshop for shelter.

Now, two and half years later, my Florida family is recovered and my workshop is up to speed. I'll be sharing some photos of my tools and setup, and bring you further into my retreat.



Having the right tools and a place to work has made a huge difference in my woodburnings and other crafting. My husband gave me this workbench and lots of tools when I started Edge of the Wildwood, and he regularly stops by the 'wildwood' to see what I'm up to.

My workshop is large enough (26x26) for me to hold small meetings or gatherings, and enthusiastic visitors! In My cats usually find a comfortable spot to lounge and they seem to like to listen to the radio with me.



The diamond shaped cinder block walls I painted to represent fortune and success. I recently upgraded to a CRAFTSMAN cushioned vinyl stool (sittin pretty!) and recently installed a high powered belted disc sander that I'm sure will be the loudest and messiest toy yet. Another machine that was donated to wildwood by a fellow woodworker is a routing table; perfect for finishing edges.


The quality of my work has greatly improved, and I'm thankful to have space for my tools, materials, inventory, photography, shipping and show setup (whew).

Gettin' Hitched

A sweet couple contacted me to make a rustic sign for their wedding.

They selected a design that looks like the message has been carved into a tree:

Their custom sign will be posted to direct guests to the ceremony, and afterwards they'll have the sign to display in their home. I'm quite honored to make this special sign for them.