tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79837748382850870002024-03-13T04:25:51.263-07:00Catiean & Co.CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.comBlogger215125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-58853437567055413102017-10-25T21:52:00.000-07:002017-10-25T21:52:07.003-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The past year has been filled with emotional highs and lows. I am sure it is the same for everyone else. My Mom has been gone just a year and I still find myself wanting to walk into the other room to tell or show her something. Whatever your relationship is or was with your parents there is always mixed emotions about things said or unsaid.<br />
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I found myself in a profound exacerbation of my illness(es) and was told it was my stress and grief.<br />
I needed to take care of ME and calm my stress levels down. <br />
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I had been putting off donating my Mom's last shipment of Insulin that had arrived just a week before her passing. So I finally took it to a local Women's Recovery Program. <br />
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It sat on the seat beside me as I drove across town. Her name printed on the outside of the container elicited tears. It felt like I was saying good bye to the last of her. I cried all the way there.<br />
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While waiting for the nurse I had just talked to about accepting the donation, I visited with the receptionists. I had no idea what was going to fall off my tongue.. I just blurted out " do the women have an art program here?"<br />
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One of the ladies said not really. The other said you should go to the Yellow House. It is the house for the nursery and school age children of residents here when they are in class or working all day.<br />
So they promptly gave me a date and time for the next volunteer orientation class the following week.<br />
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I then met the nurse in charge of the Union Gospel Mission's 3 health clinics. Annie came out and the receptionists said "We have a new volunteer" She asked if it was for the health clinic and I said no to do art with the kids.<br />
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She said " come on You can do it I can teach you." I laughed and said I was a retired Nurse but had not kept up my license after acquiring my illness. You don't need a current license when you are volunteering.<br />
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So I agreed to also work in the women's health clinic at that House. I got out in the car and just realized the commitment I made and said. "Thanks Mom. This is your fault."<br />
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I know my Mom led me there to reach out and get out of my own grief and focus on someone else in more need. <br />
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Every Tuesday I eagerly get up at 6 am to get ready and go the clinic and work with the women in the house who are sick or have sick children. I have come to know them and care about them deeply.<br />
They are women who took a wrong turn or made a choice that altered their live dramatically and not for the better.<br />
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They are committed to changing their life for themselves and some for their children as well.<br />
They deserve love and respect just like any of us.<br />
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After Clinic is over I go across the court yard to the Yellow House and work with the school age children after school. In the summer most of the afternoon. They have come to trust me and look forward to every new week and project I bring. These kids have been homeless and through traumatic childhoods. They are broken and need so much love. It took a while to break down their walls of acceptance and now I get hugs and smiles. They even share some of their lives while we are working one on one.<br />
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When I first started I asked if there was a budget for supplies for the Yellow House and was told they had a one time budget of $20. I didn't take it. I continue to haunt garage sales and thrift stores for art supplies and fill in with personal donations.<br />
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This summer when all our granddaughters were staying with us, they came and volunteered in the nursery and worked with the school age kids on two different occasions. A life lesson in viewing the underprivileged. Our kidlets were wonderful and loved being there.<br />
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My health is more or less back to baseline with the limitations I will always have but life is good and busy. <br />
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I still continue my Monday Mayhem art classes here at our house. Kids come and go do to more sports involvement or entering high school. I always seem to average a dozen kids. These kids have happier healthier environments but I know Art is a universal tool to bring joy and some healing to anyone who indulges in it.<br />
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I would love to show pictures of the kids at the Yellow House and some of the art we have made but need to protect their privacy. I need to start taking pictures of just their art. I want to start doing art with the women but they have one free night a week and a card making artist has that time for now.<br />
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Please take a moment in your life and no matter how you feel just give someone a smile. It will do more than you will ever know.<br />
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Hoping your day is filled with JOY and ART.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-68293036053200931452017-04-15T07:52:00.003-07:002017-04-15T07:52:50.821-07:00Liberate Your Art 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Once again I have been participating in<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_929859065"></span> Kat Sloma's<span id="goog_929859066"></span></a> of Kat Eye Studio's"LIBERATE YOUR ART swap.<br />
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The idea is to turn your art/photography into post cards and then send five different or all the same cards to Kat. With the help of many volunteers she then sends the postcards twice a week starting at the end of March until they are all delivered to the over 167 participants from all over the world. Everyone sends five and in return gets five and an extra one from Kat herself<br />
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Each year I look forward to trying to capture better photos. Knowing I am going to be sharing them with other artists/photographers that are so much more professional pushes me to see the world around me form a different point of view. And who doesn't love snail mail that is uplifting?<br />
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This year was a little different. We were on vacation and so when we returned just recently I had all my post cards at once. They all make me smile and so happy looking at them.<br />
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I sent the following photos this year.<br />
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These two photos were taken last Oct. when we spent a month on the Big Island. We took a boat tour<br />
to view the lava flow from the active Volcano Kilauea.<br />
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The pontoon boat held 40 people. We were about 20 yds from the flow. The sulfur smell was very strong and we felt the warm steam and spray from the ocean as lava fell into it. It was a breath taking site. I am sure one I won't see again.</div>
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I drove into the drive way just after our first snow storm last fall and was greeted by this rose. I had to take a picture.<br />
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This was taken on a fall walk in the rain.<br />
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I received the following post cards:<br />
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This beautiful cat looks like she could be a relative of my baby. The inscription on the back reads:</div>
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A look that will melt your heart and the pet of a nursing home resident. This was sent from Vi Jones.</div>
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Thank you Vi. The cat is beautiful and so is the photo.</div>
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This original art was done by Amy Garten from Nashville Tennessee. Amy wrote "Dear Artist--keep going. You did it! You spread love and color across the globe. May your creative spirit thrive in 2017. I love the colors and the simple message. When I look at it again and again I see an ocean and sunset with a sail boat in the foreground. Thank you Amy.<br />
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This mixed media piece was created by Regina. I apologize if I don't have it in the right direction. I love to do mixed media and I have yet to really put it out there. This inspires me to try that.<br />
The quote on the back says "create what sets your heart on fire and it will illuminate the path ahead." Karma Voce. Thank you Regina. I enjoy the balance and the colors.I see something different every time I look.<br />
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This is a digital painting by <a href="http://kateyestudio.com/">Kat Sloma</a> of Kat Eye Studio in Eugene Oregon. Thank you Kat. I love this piece. It reminds me of a chalk painting. Thank you for all of your hard work in the swap.<br />
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This original mixed media piece is titled "California Springtime" by <a href="https://www.cmoondesigns.com/about-crescent-moon-designs/">Natasha Monahan Papousek.</a> Our Spring time is way behind and we are inundated with rain. It is a sweet reminder of what is to come. Taking in the entire picture with the music notes as well as the mountains and trees etc I hear a spring song. The note of the back: Hello Art friend "How does the meadow flower its bloom unfold?<br />
Because the lovely little flower is free down to its root, and in that freedom <b>bold- </b>William Wordsworth Let your life be free and bold.`Thank you Natasha.<br />
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This mixed media piece is from <a href="http://www.facettenreich.at/">Andrea</a> in Vienna...Peace-crossing oceans Inspire Kindness. This is a simple but profound message. It looks like she sewed the lines on here. Andrea started swapping art just a few months ago. I love hearts so this will find a prominent place. Thank you Andrea.<br />
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I am blown away by the art I received. Everyone is so very talented. It makes my heart sing to know there are so many wonderful artists around the world. I hope this gives you inspiration to keep going or try something new.<br />
Maybe you would like to join in next year's swap.<br />
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I have extra postcards if any one is interested in them.<br />
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To see more amazing art follow this<a href="http://kateyestudio.com/2017/04/liberate-your-art-2017-final-celebration.html"> link</a> and see what everyone else received.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-54020533055490793832017-02-27T11:24:00.002-08:002017-02-27T11:24:29.412-08:00Have you seen Olaf?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I am sitting here with a hot cup of coffee. Won't you join me? It is once again snowing and snowing and snowing. Poor John is out shoveling after two week's reprieve. This winter is reminiscent of those I grew up with. I don't remember all the grumbling but who does when you are so busy playing in it?</div>
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It was really melting A LOT......but Mother Nature knows best......or just shaking out the last dredges of winter. We have had big flooding and robins are out and about.<br />
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Did you see the movie FROZEN with the goofy snowman OLAF? <br />
Well, he moved in down the road a bit just after Christmas.<br />
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He is 22 ft tall and took an entire month to construct. His features are made out of plywood and a tomato cage for a nose. And yes, the family had to 'borrow' snow from elsewhere to have enough.<br />
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We talked to the owners and they said they had a family meeting one evening to figure out a service project. Now they build a new character every winter. They spot light it at night. They take your picture if they are home when you happen by.<br />
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John and I couldn't resist. There is a donation bucket and the proceeds go to a local camp for kids who have a parent with cancer. I find great JOY in that. I applaud this family for their ingenuity and generosity. <br />
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I started volunteering at a woman's Union Gospel Health Clinic one day a week. I needed to get outside of my health issues and focus on those less fortunate. I have been there a month and am enjoying it. The women are in a 2 year program for addictions so are long term residents.<br />
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I am learning a lot about displaced women and children and I thought I was smart enough to understand........God is at work in all of us........So HE made me open my mouth and at the end of the clinic it is time for the live in kids to get out of school......five of them.....so am doing art with them.<br />
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The Joy I am looking for is always right in front of me.<br />
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<br />Tulips and Daffodils have been on display in the stores. They call out and I have to get a new bouquet every week.........They make me smile and I know Spring is beckoning around the corner.<br />
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Whatever your weather....I hope you are warm and cozy.....and your love is always reflected back to you.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-43426653590446595462017-01-15T00:29:00.001-08:002017-01-15T00:30:33.396-08:00JOY<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<dt style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 18.2399997711182px; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">Joy is prayer - Joy is strength - Joy is love - Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.</dt>
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For the past several years I have friends and fellow bloggers who choose a word to focus on for their New Year. I have always resisted as I have never done well when it comes to making or keeping resolutions for the upcoming year. </div>
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Is it because I make resolutions that are too daunting and impossible to stick with or is it because I just don't hold a lot of credence to the action itself? I don't know. This year I am joining in and choose JOY.</div>
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I bought this JOY sign at the local Salvation Army Thrift store a few years ago for a mere $5.00 with my senior discount. </div>
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It has been displayed prominently in the front of our house every Christmas season. Every day it is up it reinforces how choosing Joy is a choice.</div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7983774838285087000" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><br /></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7983774838285087000" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"> </a> This year due to lots of snow and sub zero temps our Carolers are partially buried in the frozen ground so won't be put away until it warms up and the ground thaws a bit.</div>
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So our JOY sign remains as well. I know the lights and the lighted decorations bring Joy to my dear heart as well and he still turns the lights on faithfully every evening as it grows dark. He doesn't have to say a word as his actions speak instead</div>
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Long after the sign comes down it will till remain in my heart. It will give me the strength to choose to feel Joy even in the midst of difficulty. Even as I write this my heart sings.</div>
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I pray you find Joy in your day from the smallest to the largest moments.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-77898528190278240842017-01-03T22:19:00.000-08:002017-01-03T22:19:11.120-08:00Winter is Here<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Like many of you across the nation, we are having a real winter. Here in the northwest the past few winters have been very balmy with little snow pack and later drought seasons.</div>
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We not only had a white Christmas but the snow is continuing. This week we are enduring sub zero temps with high wind chills. -5 to -15 degrees. These Quail live in our yard. There are actually 5 of them but they don't always eat at the same time. I have seen two perched higher up watching for prey.</div>
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I have been concerned about my little feathered and furry tailed friends so keep them supplied with food. Here is a wood pecker who seems to have found a snack.<br />
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I watched these squirrels all summer along with my Mom. They have become a symbol of some sort.<br />
I smile whenever I see them in the yard.<br />
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This one is Rosie....named by Mom. Her and her companions have it all figured out how to get to the bird feeder for those black oil sun flower seeds when their dish is empty.</div>
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They always hold their little paws to their chests.<br />
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My Dear Heart has been out shoveling every time it snows, even though he has a big snow blower. He says it is easier to shovel when it is only a few inches at a time. He faithfully shovels all the elderly neighbors' walks/drives so they can get to their mail boxes.<br />
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I always leave my solar chandelier out as it is chained in place. <br />
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I was looking forward to the NEW Year........"this will be a better year.'<br />
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I have spent the past 7 days in bed with a horrible sinus infection/laryngitis. I am watching the world from inside where it is warm and snuggly and am reminded LIFE HAPPENS.....good and bad and everything in between.<br />
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Waiting for something in the future to make life better or easier or happier is futile. You have to make your LIFE TODAY while it is unfolding before you.<br />
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I know that you can never hug enough, love someone enough or tell those you love, "I love you." enough. You need to take advantage of the smallest opportunity to be the most you can be and to love with all your heart.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-15003751621946268462016-12-09T23:17:00.000-08:002016-12-09T23:17:35.413-08:00Missing Blogland<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We have been back from Hawaii and visiting our kids in Seattle for a month now. John and I had such a special time in my parents Condo. The first week was grieving them gone, especially Mom so recent. But the time we spent made me feel so close to both of them. We really needed the time to regroup as a couple and renew our health, especially me. I have been diagnosed with yet another auto immune disease and have been dealing with all that comes with that.</div>
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We enjoyed such beautiful sunrises and sunsets. It rained all of three days in the 31 we were there.<br />
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The foliage was so pretty though not as many blooms as in mid winter.<br />
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Beautiful scenery was in abundance. God has truly blessed us with such a beautiful world.<br />
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When we arrived in Kona, we found out that the following week they were hosting the annual<br />
World Ironman competition for over 2500 world athletes. The medical team was full so we volunteered to help at the finish line for three hours then finished at the medal/tshirt table.<br />
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We didn't want to spend all of our time selfishly and felt like giving back to others. <br />
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I was so humbled by the athletes we met and helped. Men and women of all ages. They had to place first in their age groups anywhere in the world to qualify for Hawaii.<br />
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The men and women in the age brackets 60 -84 (the oldest) were the most inspiring. They swam 2.4 miles, biked 119 miles and ran 26.4 miles. They prove every day that any one can do anything they set their minds to.<br />
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Healing from grief is a slow process. But God put so many wonderful people in our lives we were blessed beyond measure.<br />
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We decided to take a boat trip to where the lava from Volcano Kileauea was flowing into the ocean.<br />
(We were drenched with ocean water minutes into the ride. So much for blow drying my hair and I love this picture of my sweetie.)<br />
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That had to be the most amazing natural wonder we have ever experienced. It took our breaths away.</div>
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We were actually about 15 feet from it a lot of the time.</div>
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I am busy putting Christmas decorations up, wrapping gifts, back with my weekly art kids here and some days are very difficult. I sometimes seem to just be spinning my wheels but every day is another day of healing and another day to remember my roots and my parents. I am determined to find the miracles in this holiday season and wish the same for all of you.</div>
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-75633380600512414002016-10-12T16:07:00.001-07:002016-10-12T16:07:20.282-07:00Good Bye Momma<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The last five months have been dedicated to taking care of my Mother, Helen. John and I brought her home to live with us with the care of Hospice.<br />
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Drs. gave her 6-8 weeks to live following 30 days in the hospital with not much improvement. I stayed nights with her in the hospital and my siblings rotated during the day.<br />
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My Mom lived five whole months after she came to stay with us. I like to think that it is was a combination of her courage and the love and attention we gave her every day. She was so sick, yet every day no matter what, she got up and insisted on getting dressed and out of bed.<br />
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She had fortitude and gratitude and never ever complained or whined about anything. She did complain a few times about what I was serving for dinner. HA I am so glad she did. Often we ran to fast food joints or restaurants for something she was craving that moment. We didn't care. Time was short. She deserved to be pampered.<br />
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Here I am with two of our daughters and five of 6 granddaughters---she has 8 children, 16 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Everyone is alive and well. We are so blessed. Mom's summer was spent with our kids/kidlets staying for days and weeks and running in and out giving her hugs and attention and receiving hugs and attention in return. She regaled them with her stories of her youth and life with the great grandpa they never got to know. My siblings and their families and cousins showed up constantly. <br />
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One neighbor said' That is not fair to your Mom she is sick and you are tired.' Neither my Mom nor myself saw it that way. She deserved to be surrounded by her family and she rejoiced in it. We were all making memories to hold in our heart forever.<br />
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Here are five of my siblings two brothers are missing.</div>
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This is Mom with some of her kids grands great grands nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews at our last family reunion in July. This was her very best day. She raved for weeks how wonderful it was to see everyone. She was the baby of nine children and my father was the baby of ten. Mom was the very last one of her generation.</div>
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Our hearts are filled with such sorrow but also with love and admiration for this beautiful woman.</div>
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We celebrated her life and put her to rest a few weeks ago. Such a difficult thing to do but we made it as loving and beautiful as possible.</div>
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John and I left a week later and are now resting and recuperating and grieving for a month in her(our shared with siblings) condo in Hawaii. She is at every turn and her condo is filled with constant reminders of her presence and her long life here every year for half the year. Walking down the street in the village she lived in brings so many memories of our times spent her in the past.</div>
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I miss you Momma with all of my heart. Mahalo </div>
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-2609967805089079262016-07-29T11:01:00.001-07:002016-07-29T11:21:18.702-07:00Fill in the Blanks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So the past four months I have been very busy taking care of my Mom with the help of Hospice. I am delighted to say she has improved remarkably, thought her diagnosis remains the same. We are relishing in the good days while we have them.<br />
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I have been confined to home as well and have been trying to stay creative. This past month all of our children and grandchildren were here for most of that time. Our youngest and her family have relocated to Taipei Taiwan and everyone was home 'celebrating family and saying bon voyage', until next summer.<br />
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Whenever our grandchildren are here or we visit them it is always "Oma what is our art project?"<br />
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Did I have a surprise for them.<br />
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Our trex deck is old and a mess with stains and just "blahness" I have been looking at it all spring/summer and decided it had to change.<br />
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I washed it down, let it dry and then primed it with a Kilz exterior primer. I then drew some designs on it.<br />
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I bought Valspar exterior paint in order to find the bright cheerful colors that replicate the colors in our backyard and around the pool. Each of the grand daughters donned a paint shirt grabbed a brush and picked their designs.<br />
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I was so excited to see the colors show up. <br />
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I only had to clean up a few spots and added some highlights to a few designs.<br />
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I took Behr exterior house paint in Black and applied two coats and was so happy with the results. The black background makes the colors pop and everyone who sees it loves it. It does show dusty foot prints but it is sooooo much nicer than the old deck top I don't mind.<br />
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The most special part is that the grandchildren helped to create it and will always feel proud to make Oma and Opa's deck beautiful.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-91375535390414039542016-04-14T19:07:00.000-07:002016-04-14T19:14:06.449-07:00Liberate Your Art Postcard Swap 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For the past four years I have participated in Kat Slomas Liberate Your Art Postcard Swap. Artists are asked to photograph their art in any medium and turn them into Postcards. Kat's swap encourages artists to share their work with others around the world and to bring Happy Mail to all participants.<br />
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My participation has encouraged me to try new media, to look with a new eye at whatever I want to photograph and to gain confidence in putting my art work out there.<br />
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The past three months has been very difficult for myself and my family. Our Mother has been very ill and finally came home to my house with Hospice care a week ago. Many long hours were spent at the hospital and coming home to find such inspiring art in the mail was a perfect gift. Thank you each of you.<br />
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This photo of well used and loved paint brushes was sent from Deanie Houghtaling from Paris France. Deanie this reminds me of my own brushes I look at every day I am in my studio. I now want to see what they paint! The inspiring words on the back are: "I dream of painting, then I paint my dreams." Vincent Van Gogh<br />
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This postcard hails from <a href="http://www.theresemisner.com/">Therese Misner</a> of Oregon. Therese does modern contemporary original paintings. I love the colors in these. Her inspiration is: Art is meant to be shared. Thank you Therese.<br />
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I fell in love with the simplicity of this black and white photo. The few highlights of blue just draw your eye in and make this sing. Sue from Corvallis Oregon sent this with this quote: Inhale Possibility, Exhale creativity by Laura Jaworski.<br />
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This photograph is mixed media collage done by artist Susan Brown. This is from her "Birth of Humanism Cycle of Life Series." She hails from sunny Florida. I keep picking this card up and looking again and again to find something new.<br />
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This very intricate and original zentangle was drawn by artist Danielle DeRome who has studied art all over the world. I have not tried this art form but find it very intriguing. You can see more of Danielle's art at <a href="http://www.certifiablyzendoodly.com/">www.certifiablyzendoodly.com</a><br />
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This is from <a href="http://kateyestudio.com/">Kat Sloma</a> the creator of the swap and an original photographer from Eugene Oregon. Kat's photography always has this ethereal element that I find fascinating.<br />
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Theses last postcards are my original photography taken in my back yard and house with the exception of the vintage truck full of flowers. I took that at a nephew's wedding on Whidbey Island, Washington.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qySnGDFIsjw/VxAlBqCyUNI/AAAAAAAAE1E/ZHttUuSN2NISvAcHNftE4WdDkD931nJkwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0114-2%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qySnGDFIsjw/VxAlBqCyUNI/AAAAAAAAE1E/ZHttUuSN2NISvAcHNftE4WdDkD931nJkwCLcB/s640/DSC_0114-2%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O0aa5uoL65A/VxAlEX5arXI/AAAAAAAAE1M/cGubZ_HuUMUSX9gQ6NF7DNAedIOuiRYTACLcB/s1600/DSC_0175%2B%25289%2529_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O0aa5uoL65A/VxAlEX5arXI/AAAAAAAAE1M/cGubZ_HuUMUSX9gQ6NF7DNAedIOuiRYTACLcB/s640/DSC_0175%2B%25289%2529_edited-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_IYmTcsNr5Q/VxAlHuprotI/AAAAAAAAE1U/6ggmeWUhEboHL35qjsyIAADhFm3l2W95ACLcB/s1600/DSC_0190%2B%252810%2529_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_IYmTcsNr5Q/VxAlHuprotI/AAAAAAAAE1U/6ggmeWUhEboHL35qjsyIAADhFm3l2W95ACLcB/s640/DSC_0190%2B%252810%2529_edited-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TgRR1D6R1Hk/VxAlNlv2z3I/AAAAAAAAE1g/0YB_ZWjiWgEDuQWO8qgqkFUuQovJ8qXpwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0761%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TgRR1D6R1Hk/VxAlNlv2z3I/AAAAAAAAE1g/0YB_ZWjiWgEDuQWO8qgqkFUuQovJ8qXpwCLcB/s640/DSC_0761%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vym13r6VgxI/VxAlRBbzC2I/AAAAAAAAE1o/KWJ8GF9zzl4_cT_7FZlaZ07UIXolKBPoQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0785%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vym13r6VgxI/VxAlRBbzC2I/AAAAAAAAE1o/KWJ8GF9zzl4_cT_7FZlaZ07UIXolKBPoQCLcB/s640/DSC_0785%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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To view the rest of the post card art click here</div>
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I hope this art inspires you in some way to explore your art medium even more and build the confidence to put it out into the world for others to enjoy.</div>
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-56010262250341023182016-03-04T11:29:00.000-08:002016-03-04T11:29:24.584-08:00Saying Good bye<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This is our dear Great Aunt Irma. In Sept we were able to spend her 107th Birthday with her.<br />
Two years ago her only direct relative moved her across the state away from all of her daily friends and great and great great and great great great nieces and nephews who saw her several times a week.<br />
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We were only able to visit every few months which broke our hearts as well as hers. Her direct relative did not show up for her birthday and hadn't been seen since the previous year when he did attend her 106th birthday. Sadly he lives 20 mins from her.<br />
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Aunt Irma loved us all as we loved her. She especially cherished her great great and great great great nieces and nephews and when at home always wanted to 'have a tea party'.<br />
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Our youngest grand daughter and great great great aunt Irma had birthdays exactly 100 yrs apart.<br />
Amazing when you think about it.<br />
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Shortly before Christmas Sweet beautiful Irma went home to the Lord and all of her beautiful sisters and one brother. She leaves behind an awesome legacy. Her favorite line was "Come sit down and I will tell you a yarn."<br />
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She regaled us with stories of growing up in a large family on a farm, having 3 children, 2 tragically died at young ages, raising 32 foster children with her husband of 54 years.<br />
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One foster daughter is still living and calls her Mama.<br />
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Irma witnessed so many wonderful and tragic events in her life time. She never flew in a plane but rode in a horse and buggy. She was simple and humble and lived her life accordingly.<br />
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Her one vanity was to wear high heel 'pumps' from a young age. She wore them to work, to church, on picnics, climbing a ladder, roofing the barn, hoeing in her garden. She never wore flat shoes until recent years and her feet were badly misshapen.<br />
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Irma was a talented artist and loved oil painting. She taught art students for years and finally had to quit 5 years ago at the age of 102 when her eye sight was failing and she had a difficult time getting up and down her steep basement stairs to her painting area.<br />
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The last visit with her, our youngest daughter recorded her telling stories and had sent them to us just days before Irma died. We have yet to listen to them. Our hearts are heavy but we know she would not want us to weep and grieve. She lived a beautiful giving, honest life and deserved to go to her final rest.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-27830674175560491592016-01-24T21:07:00.000-08:002016-01-24T21:07:18.509-08:00Liberate Your Art Swap 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://kateyestudio.com/liberate-your-art-postcard-swap"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PVgn2xTs71s/VqWr3I6yzkI/AAAAAAAAEjM/_AvG-up3G3s/s640/2016-LYA-Header.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is that time of year again! Kat Sloma from <a href="http://kateyestudio.com/liberate-your-art-postcard-swap">Kat Eye Studios</a> is once again hosting her annual 'Liberate Your Art' postcard swap.<br />
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Do you like photography? Make art and take pictures of it? Then this is the perfect swap for you!<br />
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This is my fourth year participating and it is so fun. Every spring post cards start coming in from various artists all over the world. Put on your big girl panties and put your art out there for all to enjoy and sign up.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-41214029473967453542016-01-14T02:09:00.000-08:002016-01-14T02:09:40.176-08:00It's A Nutty Life<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The last week has been very gray and foggy with intermittent drizzle. I have been entertained by two little squirrels that live in a pine tree in our front yard.<br />
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Because of the thick canopy of branches of the tree and the warmer temps the snow has melted here. The squirrels are rooting under the bird feeder for sunflower seeds.<br />
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They don't mind me standing in the window. But seem to saying 'Hey Lady where's the rest of the stash?<br />
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I shoved a plastic bowl in this crevice so they could reach their peanuts. When I put them on the ground or even the chair in the flower bed, our dog Shelka will knock them down and eat them.<br />
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Squirrels don't hibernate and they forage for food all winter. Often we watch them taking peanuts and burying them all over this particular flower bed when they aren't eating them.<br />
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This little stinker ran out of peanuts and jumped down into the bird feeder from the branch above and helped himself to the sunflower seeds mix.<br />
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A few birds are dive bombing the bird feeder because they want their turn to eat.<br />
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While the partner is down below finding his own morsels.<br />
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Later I went out into the back yard because Shelka was whining to go out. On our side fence was Mr. Squirrel and straight ahead was a neighbor cat slunk down on the top of the fence just waiting to pounce. I ran out to scare the cat away, then got the camera. By then Mr Squirrel had run up onto the roof top to get away.</div>
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Phew! We have two cats too and I am always watchful when the squirrels are out.</div>
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What wild life is in your neck of the woods?</div>
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-76913452883653471462016-01-08T00:57:00.000-08:002016-01-08T00:57:37.546-08:00 Hello old friends.....It is a Dawning of a New Year <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am excited to welcome in a New Year. I always look forward to a new slate and new Hope. The past 6 months has been spent spending quality time with our families and concentrating on my health.<br />
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It took most of the summer and fall to get my Mom into assisted living and her health stable. We had many garage sales and at each one we could see how difficult it was for her to downsize and let go of so much of her life. It has shown me that we need to give things away before the decision is made for us.<br />
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John's Dad has progressing Alzheimer's and is still at home. He has been able to be home alone with just day help but now we are starting round the clock care with all family members. It is difficult to watch a once vibrant man lose his memory. We try to spend as much time with each as we can. They will both be 89 this year. <br />
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We have been able to travel across state a few a times to see our beautiful kids and kidlets and that is always our biggest joy.<br />
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After a long hot drought filled summer we had two huge fall wind/rain storms with too much destruction here in our town. We were so lucky to only be without power for mere hours while many friends and family members were without for days.<br />
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Now winter is here upon us and we have had more snow than the past two winters combined. It has been a nice change. I love our four seasons.<br />
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I find this time of year one for settling in, getting cozy and catching up on long last friends and what is going on in your neck of the woods.<br />
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My wish for the New Year for each of you is that You have time to share your love with those you cherish. May the memories you make bring you years of smiles.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-19229292023118926692015-06-20T09:16:00.000-07:002015-06-20T09:16:41.460-07:00Solar Chandelier<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So I have been looking for that very special 'just right' chandelier since last fall. A friend and I went to a barn sale/flea market and I found this:<br />
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The light fixture is actually crammed into a bird cage stand.<br />
And they are both WHITE! You now I just have to have COLOR.<br />
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So I started with the stand and went through my stash of spray paint. Remember the church rummage sale and $5/grocery bag? Well this beautiful.... but inside rusted ...teapot was stuffed into that bag with all the other silver. I found the bells at a separate garage sale for a quarter. I saw this on pinterest last year.<br />
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I used waterproof silicone from Lowe's and glued the cup to the saucer then the whole thing to the bar. It has been up a month and has not fallen off and it gets hit by the sprinkler every day.<br />
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I love this color and happened to have one can of spray paint left....love it. I took the pvc pipes off then cut the wire off and replaced the holders.<br />
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I went through my stash of beads and jewels and beaded ropes of beads while watching my favorite shows on TV.<br />
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I wanted this to be solar since it is going in the garden. I found these perfect globes removed the lower stake taped them off and spray painted over the black.<br />
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They sit very nicely in the holders. I pulled the tabs out before inserting them so the solar light would work.<br />
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Then John helped me hang it in the center of the gazebo. We bought that from a cousin without the canopy and I envisioned just this chandelier of sorts. It sparkles in the sun.<br />
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This is just getting dark and you can see how the lights are already turning on. John called me to the back yard the first night and said 'Honey, you left the lights on.'<br />
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I am working on this little seating area....need to add another chair or two some cushions to the bench and I want to mosaic the bird bath.<br />
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If you look closely you can see branches stuck in the ground all around. Our kids were here a few months ago and we had them trim the huge french pussy willow tree and our daughter found online that you could just stick them in the ground to root and keep them well watered. We have a thriving<br />
'tree' on three sides sprouting new foliage so far......just need one on the fourth side.<br />
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Hope you are enjoying a garden wherever you are.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-30803117385335515362015-06-10T20:14:00.000-07:002015-06-10T20:17:33.147-07:00Wind Chimes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This is the sunset tonight after a 95 degree day. Our usual temps at this time of year are 70's but I am<br />
not complaining. We have our pool to cool off in and I LOVE that.<br />
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It is supposed to cool off by 15 degrees so that will be nice . Today our air conditioner just stopped.<br />
We have had it for eleven years and have never had any problems so maybe it is time.<br />
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We can't get anyone to come until the middle of next week so am happy it will be cooler for a few days anyway.<br />
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I have been decorating our back yard for the past month.. These are the wind chimes I made out of recycled silver. I know some of you may be offended by my choice of materials but each to their own.<br />
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I went to a church rummage sale and you could fill a brown grocery bag for $5. In my bag I have a small silver serving tray and wine chalices.<br />
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I drilled holes in the lip of the edge of the platter with a metal drill bit and then drilled holes in the base of the chalices. I had all the beads on hand and used 20# clear fishing line to string them on.<br />
I made sure the chalices are almost touching so that when they move in the breeze they hit each other and are so melodic. I used a small link chain on each side to hang it on the branch. I had originally had it hanging on the deck but it didn't move due to the weight. Now the breeze moves the branch.<br />
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I also <strike>crammed </strike>neatly placed silverware and this chafing dish holder in my bag. I have a ton of beads on hand and have had my art kids making their own wind chimes. I again drilled holes in each<br />
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of the handles of the silverware. You cannot use newer silverware because you cannot drill through it. You can wrap wire around the handles and then use fishing line to attach them to your holder.<br />
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I wrapped thin wire with beads around the handles and added bells to some of the utensils. This one is light weight and dances nicely in the breeze. It has a soft tinkly sound.<br />
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What projects are you working on?</div>
CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-48202341570990141132015-06-03T11:31:00.001-07:002015-06-03T11:31:53.422-07:00Summer is Upon Us<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Life has been challenging here lately. Once again I have been spending a lot of time at the local hospital ER and the Dr's. But every day is better and I am hopeful this will be resolved.<br />
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In the meantime, the ritual of spring planting is alive and well . I have been puttering in the garden getting my pots and plants ready for the summer season.<br />
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My doors and fence sections are all planted.</div>
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This pink door is all over pinterest since I posted it last year late in the season when the flowers were cascading down the front.<br />
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The pool season is officially open and we have been enjoying it with exceptionally hot weather.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-29963326135765129902015-04-16T07:59:00.003-07:002015-04-16T08:19:43.106-07:00Liberate Your Art Swap<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span id="goog_855376677">Once again I have been participating in <a href="http://kateyestudio.com/2015/04/liberate-your-art-2015-blog-hop.html">Kat Sloma's </a>"LIBERATE YOUR ART swap.</span><br />
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The idea is to turn your art/photography into post cards and then send five different or all the same cards to Kat. With the help of many volunteers she then sends the postcards twice a week starting at the end of March until they are all delivered to the over 200 participants. Everyone sends five and in return gets five and an extra one from Kat herself<br />
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Each year I look forward to trying to capture better photos. Knowing I am going to be sharing them with other artists/photographers that are so much more professional pushes me to see the world around me form a different point of view. And who doesn't love snail mail that is uplifting?<br />
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I sent the following five postcards and did hear from one recipient in the UK. This was the first time I have heard from anyone who has received one of my postcards and was overjoyed it went so far.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_hcHiuGlYdA/VS9QfxKd2XI/AAAAAAAAEVI/P6cnwJgnwIs/s1600/DSC_0006%2B(46).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_hcHiuGlYdA/VS9QfxKd2XI/AAAAAAAAEVI/P6cnwJgnwIs/s1600/DSC_0006%2B(46).JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-PFPlLU-ug/VS9QjBIGX8I/AAAAAAAAEVQ/xbFDCVae7bo/s1600/DSC_0039%2B(6)_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-PFPlLU-ug/VS9QjBIGX8I/AAAAAAAAEVQ/xbFDCVae7bo/s1600/DSC_0039%2B(6)_edited-1.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gADyJW-PUB0/VS9QpPaulPI/AAAAAAAAEVg/N1jar_X1WiI/s1600/DSC_0144%2B(21).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gADyJW-PUB0/VS9QpPaulPI/AAAAAAAAEVg/N1jar_X1WiI/s1600/DSC_0144%2B(21).JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ww7Ic_5q1AM/VS9Qr-QQV4I/AAAAAAAAEVo/uypzv0oCNn4/s1600/DSC_0638%2B(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ww7Ic_5q1AM/VS9Qr-QQV4I/AAAAAAAAEVo/uypzv0oCNn4/s1600/DSC_0638%2B(2).JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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The flowers were all in our yard and the door is one of several I have painted and<br />
have used to help landscape our back yard.<br />
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Below are the postcards I received in the swap.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FNQ-X9GWvUs/VS9RDMs-V4I/AAAAAAAAEVw/0XuMoZU_xiE/s1600/DSC_0456-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FNQ-X9GWvUs/VS9RDMs-V4I/AAAAAAAAEVw/0XuMoZU_xiE/s1600/DSC_0456-1.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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This one arrived from Jen of Lashua Art. She is a very talented artist and her art can be found on facebook.<br />
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This breathtaking photo is by Shirina Manez. Her other photography can be found at<a href="http://crated.com/ShirinaManes"> Crated</a>. Shirina I tried to find a way to contact you to let you know where your post card landed and was unable to do that.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UBvxsdcfSKM/VS_D-dmtcLI/AAAAAAAAEWo/aauH5SXIJT4/s1600/DSC_0461-1_edited-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UBvxsdcfSKM/VS_D-dmtcLI/AAAAAAAAEWo/aauH5SXIJT4/s1600/DSC_0461-1_edited-2.jpg" height="394" width="640" /></a><a href="https://cabrashear.wordpress.com/">https://cabrashear.wordpress.com/</a></div>
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I love this photo of an old beat up truck interior and seemed to like the wagon wheel for a perch.<br />
This photo is done by Catherine Brashear.<br />
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<a href="https://cabrashear.wordpress.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P1sD4MIJfAk/VS9Rd7FlKCI/AAAAAAAAEWI/FN5wK3YiuSs/s1600/DSC_0459.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a><br />
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This photo of the sea is accompanied by a poem by Dani in Australia @<a href="http://sandhasnohome.com/">Sandhasnohome.com</a> The poem reads:<br />
Did the sea water baulk <br />
when first if met the tide?<br />
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What lyrics do the waves sing<br />
When they meet the shore again?<br />
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Do Seashells cry for mercy<br />
in their metamorphosis to fragments?<br />
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Does the water long for peace<br />
in the midst of its violence?<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-duHaN2Yhyr8/VS9Rp6TdZoI/AAAAAAAAEWQ/cxYmPd6Mfu0/s1600/DSC_0462-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-duHaN2Yhyr8/VS9Rp6TdZoI/AAAAAAAAEWQ/cxYmPd6Mfu0/s1600/DSC_0462-1.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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This beautiful postcard was sent from the Midwest by <a href="https://wolftale.wordpress.com/">Siobhan Wolf.</a> You can find out about her and her family here.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RiBmQjDI7pk/VS9Rv5H26OI/AAAAAAAAEWY/dUeVc2eOw8U/s1600/DSC_0466-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RiBmQjDI7pk/VS9Rv5H26OI/AAAAAAAAEWY/dUeVc2eOw8U/s1600/DSC_0466-1.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a></div>
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This last postcard was sent to everyone by Kat Sloma. She is a wonderful photographer and teaches in person and online workshops. Even my husband looks forward to the post cards that arrive in the mail during this event. I encourage everyone to follow the link and view several hundred more postcards by all the participants.</div>
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-1171343210972308922015-03-17T08:26:00.003-07:002015-03-17T08:26:45.309-07:00Old Barns On A Rainy Day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The past few days have brought pouring rain to our very dry region. I was feeling house bound so grabbed my camera and went for a drive looking for my favorite old barns. I don't know why, but old buildings just draw me in.</div>
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We are so fortunate to live where we do, surrounded by farmland.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sHWby6DlT-0/VQZ1bHUCZqI/AAAAAAAAEPM/DAwUqSBvnxo/s1600/DSC_0027-1_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sHWby6DlT-0/VQZ1bHUCZqI/AAAAAAAAEPM/DAwUqSBvnxo/s1600/DSC_0027-1_edited-1.jpg" height="374" width="640" /></a></div>
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This vintage barn comes complete with this trio of vintage cars.</div>
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This barn was freshly painted this dull green....any other shade would have taken away its</div>
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full beauty.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P9QwZZYXJMo/VQZ1feh5rgI/AAAAAAAAEPc/e1oFoPV2zjk/s1600/DSC_0034_edited-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P9QwZZYXJMo/VQZ1feh5rgI/AAAAAAAAEPc/e1oFoPV2zjk/s1600/DSC_0034_edited-2.jpg" height="382" width="640" /></a></div>
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This beauty is showing off its new metal roof. It retains its original bones and weathered wood.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3hLtW2af8Hs/VQZ1glNm-5I/AAAAAAAAEPk/Y6bF5s44dz4/s1600/DSC_0028-2-1_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3hLtW2af8Hs/VQZ1glNm-5I/AAAAAAAAEPk/Y6bF5s44dz4/s1600/DSC_0028-2-1_edited-1.jpg" height="342" width="640" /></a></div>
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This farm had a brand new metal barn unworthy of photo preservation, but did have these fun out buildings. Here is a Café complete with old milk cans, water pump, vintage benches and even a phone booth.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VICaSZ8iORo/VQZ1hq35cmI/AAAAAAAAEPs/On5DnQoTsoY/s1600/DSC_0029_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VICaSZ8iORo/VQZ1hq35cmI/AAAAAAAAEPs/On5DnQoTsoY/s1600/DSC_0029_edited-1.jpg" height="368" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's partner is a trading post with vintage gas pumps and more milk cans and a vintage sign.<br />
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This building has 'weathered' many years of use. It looks to house broken down machinery presently, but I imagine generations of animals calling this place home complete with a hay loft filled from surrounding wheat fields.<br />
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Oh the memories I could tell.....<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yJXJmbBusCY/VQZ1pBlscHI/AAAAAAAAEQE/4QlST6Mbvec/s1600/DSC_0040-1_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yJXJmbBusCY/VQZ1pBlscHI/AAAAAAAAEQE/4QlST6Mbvec/s1600/DSC_0040-1_edited-1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love the red and white of these last two barns. The windows are wonderful.</div>
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These two were just too sweet.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-44992519587810333752015-03-08T19:31:00.000-07:002015-03-08T19:33:13.326-07:00Kid's Art Projects<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For the last month my weekly kids have been working on their latest art project. I took photos of each one of them. They had to use their photo as the focal point of their piece.<br />
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We collaged the canvas and then they had to draw themselves as something, anything. We painted over the collage to outline who or what they were going to be. Then they added shaded outlines in the background and some paint lines and dots.<br />
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After they were happy with the background, they then embellished their picture to create the scene.<br />
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I had all kinds of junk for them to pull from. <br />
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When they were done embellishing they had to come up with a phrase or word to finish the piece.<br />
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They had such fun making their art and I had as much fun helping them with their ideas.<br />
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These are the finished projects:<br />
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He wanted to be a rainbow, age 5.<br />
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She wanted to be a flower and came up with the rhyme roses are red and changed it on her own. Age 8.<br />
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She wanted to be a Hot Dog. Age 6<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtlkJL-kyQY/VPz7TrcaTBI/AAAAAAAAEMw/QA8Q7BKEcX4/s1600/DSC_0097_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtlkJL-kyQY/VPz7TrcaTBI/AAAAAAAAEMw/QA8Q7BKEcX4/s1600/DSC_0097_edited-1.jpg" height="640" width="542" /></a></div>
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Here is a princess. Age 10<br />
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He wanted to be a bottle of ketchup. Our dog had two squeaky toys she never plays with so we washed them up and attached them to the picture. The phrase is actually his last name. age 7.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XjqYvpOoIFo/VPz7dQZJYQI/AAAAAAAAENA/9TgHRviDQZ4/s1600/DSC_0105_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XjqYvpOoIFo/VPz7dQZJYQI/AAAAAAAAENA/9TgHRviDQZ4/s1600/DSC_0105_edited-1.jpg" height="640" width="562" /></a></div>
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Here we have a minion playing sports and holding his bottle of jelly. Age 6.<br />
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This one has the most three dimensional aspects. Age 10.</div>
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Another fairy tale princess. Age 11</div>
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A sweet angel age 9.</div>
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This one is fun and happy. Age 13.<br />
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I look at these pictures and can't stop smiling. The biggest thing for me is that the kids create with joy and abandon and I just try to keep them going in a forward motion. <br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-16830103765602770512015-03-01T12:22:00.001-08:002015-03-01T12:23:34.623-08:00GYB Gift and Vintage Cards<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I was the lucky winner in Shirlee's GYB drawing.<br />
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I received this beautiful hand beaded flower pin and wore it out last night. I received many compliments. If you look closely you will see the intricate beading. You need to hop over to <span id="goog_330403728"></span>Shirlee's<span id="goog_330403729"></span> blog <a href="http://www.shirleestuff.blogspot.com/">Needle and Hook</a> to see the amazing needlework and beading she does every day. Her handwork is simply exquisite. Thank You Shirlee.<br />
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I have been watching the little Wrens making nests in our two birdhouses out front. They fly back and forth carrying straw and dried grass to build up their nests. Taking pictures through the glass, I was unable to get a clear photo.<br />
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I have been like those little wrens, but in the form of spring cleaning. Yep...you heard that. Organizing the pantry and laundry room and emptying closets etc.<br />
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I had put any art making on hold while I purged and tidied. I was sidelined after receiving my second dose of medicine to get me in remission and it laid me low.<br />
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So I though I could do something that kept me sedate and occupied and came up with these new cards.<br />
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I love old vintage photos and you can find them for free on the internet.<br />
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My printer is dying a slow death and so the pictures print with a red cast to them which I really like.<br />
This card is for a young girl named Gracie who is struggling with a new illness.<br />
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This one is for my granddaughter who loves dogs.<br />
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I hope all of you with cold winter weather are snuggled up and enjoying your favorite people and activities.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-11721141365804643292015-02-19T01:35:00.000-08:002015-02-19T01:35:22.631-08:00The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Our winter in the Northwest has been almost non existent. I am so sorry for all of you who are snowed under and dealing with frigid temperatures. We have had many socked in gray days with no sun visible for weeks. Yesterday the sun was out for a few hours and the temps were unseasonably warm. Our 50 plus degrees is well above mid February temps. Flowers are budding and everything in the garden is showing new growth.<br />
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We haven't been out and about much since that is easier when one feels well<br />
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Yesterday was a good day and we hopped in the car with Shelka and headed one mile to the river where we are blessed to have a 'Centennial Trail" that winds around the river and into the state of Idaho.<br />
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Everyone was out enjoying the unusual warm weather<br />
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Even Shelka met new friends.<br />
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I grew up here playing along and in this river....The Spokane River.<br />
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My brothers and I lazily floated down the river when it was lower in the summer.<br />
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Dodging rapids in simple tire inner tubes. When our children got older the river was off limits.<br />
We on the other hand road our bikes down here every day in the summer to swim and play in the rocks.<br />
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I love the contrast of the different trees here in our area. Both evergreens and <br />
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deciduous trees grow and sprawl in harmony here.<br />
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New growth in tandem with old and dying growth</div>
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Spring moss in its bright green coat was abundant.<br />
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New pine cones emerging nestled in the needles<br />
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And the GLORIOUS SUN setting in an almost cloudless sky <br />
lifts everyone's spirits and renews our faith <br />
that Mother Nature knows best. <br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-3768396549423178392015-02-15T15:03:00.001-08:002015-02-15T15:08:18.686-08:00GYB Give Away Winners!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I want to thank everyone who has visited my blog through Vicki's Grow Your Blog Party. I have met many new and wonderful people and look forward to growing friendships for many years.<br />
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The fur babies have been moping around and whispering about who is going to win the give away.</div>
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Shelka has been guarding the repurposed dolls.</div>
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Callie hasn't been able to play with them so she is moping about.<br />
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Mato is only interested in getting the show on the road already.<br />
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Hubby randomly picked two numbers for me.<br />
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AND THE WINNERS ARE:<br />
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SARA from <a href="http://paisleyrainboots.blogspot.com/">Paisley Rain Boots</a> is the winner of Little Miss Red Coffee. Sara is a beautiful writer and photographer. I am inspired by her writing and the composition of her photos. Please check out her blog.<br />
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The very hilarious LIZ and her cohorts from <a href="http://fieldfen.blogspot.com/">Field and Fen</a> has won Miss Green. I am anxious to see how she is received into that family. For a daily dose of fun and laughter you have to meet this oddball family.<br />
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Sara and Liz please contact me with your addresses so I may ship these out in the next few days.<br />
Monday is a holiday so no postal service.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-77989087201281193472015-02-03T23:23:00.001-08:002015-02-03T23:23:18.466-08:00Vintag Redo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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60 years ago I was five years old. My Grandmother had been newly widowed and moved into a very small house. Her Kitchen had 4 cupboards so virtually no storage. My aunt took her shopping for this china cabinet and I got to go along.<br />
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Grandma told me at the store. "Some day this might be yours." My parents inherited this when my Grandma died some 45 years ago. It took up residency in our dining room until two years ago when my Mom downsized and Grandma's hutch came to live in my art studio. It has broken and missing handles. And the wood was pretty beat up.</div>
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After THREE trips to Lowe's I realized that they only have one standard size for door handles/pulls and they were an inch to short for the holes in these drawers. So I rummaged through my <strike>junk. </strike>wonderful collection and pulled out this tarnished silverware. I drilled holes in the ends and used the holes in the serving parts. I took alcohol ink and sponged it all over the spoons and sprayed them with matte finish varnish.<br />
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I then looked through my old broken rhinestone jewelry and pulled out these large pins and went back to Lowe's for small screws to attach them to the wood.<br />
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I like the character they add to the cabinet and they are PINK my favorite color. And they are one of a kind.<br />
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Ambling through Hobby Lobby, I did find this rhinestone drawer pull and it matched my old jewelry perfectly. I used a longer teaspoon for this and added a string of beads and more old jewelry.<br />
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I bought some Annie Sloan chalk paint a year or more ago and so pulled that out and applied it over a wood primer. I can't say I really love the chalk paint. When I added the wax and started to buff it, the paint lifts off with firm pressure. I do love the look and how it turned out. I will probably not use the chalk paint for other furniture pieces I want to redo but that is just a personal preference.</div>
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What are you working on this week?</div>
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-52490526996678332252015-01-30T07:48:00.000-08:002015-01-30T07:48:55.784-08:00Just Put Yourself Out There<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So these past four months have been a little difficult for me health wise. I have been taking a lot of steroids. I have been pretty much homebound with my only outings being the local emergency rooms and dr. appts. <br />
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We have gone to two funerals in the past three weeks and at each, we ran into old friends we hadn't seen in a few years. Comments were made about how I looked 'so different' or ' oh my, I didn't recognize you." OUCH....One friend, upon hearing I had been sick, pointed and even said.<br />
"prednisone cheeks, how ugly."<br />
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I felt like she had slapped me and I know that sounds trite. I usually am the first one to not care but I have been looking at me in the mirror several times a day and even I can see the real me is NOT there. The fat cheeks bother me even though I know I am weaning off the dreaded drug.<br />
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I came home and told John I did NOT want to go ANYWHERE at all. NO WHERE you here?<br />
He tells me every day how beautiful I am. Our dog and cats still love me and when our kids and kidlets call from far away I know they love me too. But still..........that nagging little ugly voice that gets in our head sometimes....no matter what you do you can't push it entirely out the door and throw the key away.<br />
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I kept telling myself....it is not healthy to hole up in the house because you might run into someone you know........<br />
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And then, there in my email came an invitation to take one of those VanGogh/Merlot painting classes at my favorite Nursery a few blocks away. I usually take some kind of planting/potting class there so this is different. I don't know how to paint actually. I do other media. But I WANT to paint.<br />
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I hesitated.......thought ' what about my face'?............WHAT ABOUT IT? So before I could start arguing with myself I hit reply and accept and paid for it online and it was done in less than two minutes.<br />
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I showed up for the class yesterday not knowing what to expect. There were 19 women and 1 husband.<br />
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The instructor told us we were painting this picture. Sure we are.<br />
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She talked about priming the canvas and outlining where the flowers go. That was easy.<br />
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I found myself starting to relax. I met lots of new people and not one said anything about my fat cheeks. We all just painted and laughed a lot with tea and appetizers.<br />
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I learned about blending wet on wet paint and waiting for other paint to dry. This is acrylics.<br />
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This is my final picture. I spent three hours learning paint techniques I knew nothing about before.<br />
I laughed and talked. I made new acquaintances. It was EASY it was FUN. I got out of my own way and got out of the house. I Want to paint MORE.<br />
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CatieAnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09433305330968854290noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7983774838285087000.post-57348301986798210012015-01-25T03:09:00.000-08:002015-01-25T03:14:07.848-08:00Grow Your Blog Party<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I'd like to welcome all of you who are stopping by for the Grow Your Blog Party and say Hello to<br />
friends who have been around for a while. My name is CatieAn. I am married for 43 years to John <br />
and we have a beautiful family of four married children and 7 precious grandchildren.</div>
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We live in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.<br />
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We are both retired and love the leisure of our lives.<br />
I was a Pediatric Oncology and Intensive care Nurse<br />
John was a Cardiovascular technician in the Heart Cath Lab.<br />
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I originally started blogging in 2007 when I had to retire early for medical purposes. I was looking for kindred spirits that shared values and similar interests. It is also a way to chronicle my life from time to time and share with others. We all have so much to give to each other through common interests and just life in general. I cherish the friends I have made through blogging and hold them dear in my heart.<br />
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I hope you find something that draws you in and brings you back. <br />
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I love to decorate my house, inside and out. I repurpose, upcycle, love collecting junk and stuff. I am into buttons and fabric, mannequin heads, Victorian arts and crafts, hearts, hands and crafting in general.<br />
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I love to make art:<br />
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(water color)<br />
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assemblage<br />
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portrait drawing<br />
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(pencil, charcoal, pastel)<br />
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sewing<br />
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collage<br />
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I also love photography:<br />
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We put in an in ground pool last year and love to share it with our family and friends and all the neighbor children. I love decorating and making our yard a fun place to hang out.<br />
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For the past 8 years, I host 10-15 children once a week. We cook, sew, create art, learn manners and have a great time hanging out. John and I see it as a personal ministry to give back to those in our community. There is no fee. We provide all the supplies needed and parents take turns sharing snacks. The first group of kids I started with are now graduating seniors. They bless are lives in many ways.<br />
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I am going to give away two gifts to two visitors. I will draw the names randomly on Feb. 15th. You do not have to have a blog to participate and you can live any where in the world. I just need a physical address when I draw your name so please make sure I have a way to contact you, should you win. I have repurposed these vintage tins and vintage doll parts:<br />
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Please stay awhile, look around, enjoy yourself. Hopefully you will find something that interests you and you will come back soon.<br />
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If you see something you want to pin, you have my permission as long as you give me credit. If you have any questions about anything please email me and I will be happy to answer them. <a href="mailto:catiean@aol.com">catiean@aol.com</a>.<br />
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To follow the Blog Party Hosted by Vicki @ 2 Bagsful click the banner. There are over 400 international blogs participating. Vicki has spent countless hours putting this event together once again. She is an amazing artist and philanthropist and her fiber art is just too delicious.<br />
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