Cynthia's Botanical Arts

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

Hearts are everywhere… in nature, art, body & soul…..everywhere. With a full heart, one can conquer anything. My heart is full. I am grateful for all of those people, places and things that fill my heart.

I took a walk with my camera, this weekend…..looking for hearts. They are everywhere (but sometimes you have to look a little harder to see them). I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Coquina shells form a perfect heart!

A little piece of art
on my desk.

I think that this is a
??Caladian?? leaf.
Help me with this one!!
Well, I think it looks like a heart!

An old but beautiful leaf
stuck to the sidewalk.
Even old hearts can be beautiful!

This one was a bit of a stretch….
It is tiny, but sometimes you
can see the heart in the smallest places.

Hope you are filled with hearts this week!!

Shells in abundance

2012-02-09T13:51:00.000-08:00

I love to walk the beach looking for shells. I have noticed that there are often clumps of similar shells on any given day. I have no idea how it works, but one day I will find very few shells, and then next, there will be amazing ones along our walk. Yesterday, I found a bunch of various sized clam shells. All were unbroken and they were in an assortment of sizes... perfect variations from large to small.

I have many (well, most) from Siesta Key, Beach…. but this past weekend, we went down to Sanibel Island and I walked the beach for two hours. I had no idea that time was flying by so quickly. My Daughter-in-law and I found so many different shells, in abundance. By the time we made it back to Sweet hubby and my son, they were sunburned (even with spf 30!).

I plan to photograph more of my shells for you. I am putting them all over the place, which is getting to be pretty funny (how many places can you put shells?). I need to start making something from all of them.

Here is a mixture of them (with a few Christmas sparkle shells thrown in).

Clams, Coquinas and Angel Wings;
Scallops, Starfish & Sand Dollars.
I love them all!

We are starting to have "Company". I love it…. but I won't be painting this week…nor the next weekeither….
Hope you will hang in there with me, until I get back on track (and I can't promise anything on that score).

Stormy weather at home

2012-02-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

This post is for my friends back home….. who received a bundle of snow today. It looks beautiful back there, but I know that it isn't always easy to get around when these storms hit the ground.

So, I am sending you some sunshine from Florida….. and a peek at the #1 beach in the USA, this year. Summer is not far away….

Wish you were here….

Siesta Key
We like to walk this as often as we can.
It's our little slice of heaven.

The water was almost still yesterday.
It provides a place of contemplation
along with interesting shells and creatures
along the shore.

There is nothing like a beautiful sunset
to put a smile in your heart.

Work's Done

2012-02-02T13:22:00.000-08:00

I have been working all week on the last two paintings for over the bed. I did not take my usual painstaking care with these. Rather, I worked quickly and a bit too rapidly to get them done. The good thing is, that, once framed, and over the bed, they look just fine. I did not want a masterpiece this time, but something to pop some color into the room on a very slim budget. The frames, from IKEA, were not only affordable (Would you believe, $5.00 each!!), they worked perfectly on the ledge from IKEA (what would I do without that place).

These are quite blurry
as they are framed in a shadowbox
but, hopefully, you
get the picture (ha,ha)

A fan palm of some sort.
Wish I knew the names of all of these.
(yeah, you can see the flaws on this one)

When they are all hung up on the wall,
they create a nice touch of green,
in an otherwise blue & white space.

And so, the paints are put away for now, and my space has been cleaned up. I can't leave my messy studio, and close the door, here…… I have to clean up and put away. It's all good.

I will be exploring for a bit, taking more photos and having some visitors. We are also going to head out to visit my Dad on his 97th birthday. He wants a Pizza Party, so that is what he is going to get. It will be fun to celebrate with as much family as we could gather. Finances and health prohibit some from coming, while others have work schedules, etc. As long as we can do a bit of celebrating, we will! (it happens to be Sweet Hubby's birthday, as well. Another relative is celebrating her 65th on the same day… with a big party in her home town. Let the celebrations begin!!

Happy Weekend! I will have lots of celebration photos next week!

Painterly Palms

2012-01-27T16:46:00.000-08:00

We needed something for our bedroom…..some color; a painting or two… or three?

I found some frames (9" x 9" square) at IKEA….for mere peanuts. So I drew out the square. and then started painting. I have three paintings to complete and set on a ledge. I will show you the finished look, when I complete this project.

The first one is done, and framed. The second is nearing completion….they have been quick and easy to do. I have been much more relaxed, now that I am working in my space and painting daily. I hope that it can continue.

The weeks are flying by…..

February is just around the corner…

Have a great weekend!

Palm leaves #1

more to come…...

Busy, Busy

2012-01-23T15:57:00.000-08:00

I have been busy, but just not painting. However, TODAY, I painted for four hours. We have spent the last week in the garden…..taking out old trees and replacing them with healthy, young ones. I think that the new trees will provide some great shade, however, it might take a few years to see that (since, we chose a dwarf palm tree, which is only about 4 feet at present).

I also spent a week and a half, working on a long overdue project…… slip covering a chair. I am pretty proud of the result (but it is a lot more fun to be painting).

I am starting a project of three paintings that will be 5' x 5' squares, once framed. I am choosing different palm leaves. These will sit on a ledge, over the bed. I will take some photos…. once I get further along in the process.

I hope your week is a good one, so far.

Our Palm tree should grow
to provide great shade for both our neighbors
and us :)

This was a big challenge,
but I am happy to have a fresh, new look!

Now, back to some watercolor painting!!

I'll be back…..

2012-01-22T06:52:00.000-08:00

Life is flying by…. we have been working hard on projects around here….indoors and outside. So, I will be back with photographs tomorrow….. but today, I will leave you with a quote I found this week:

Gratitude

turns what we

have

into

Enough.

Have a good week. Our best week, is when we have a chance to spend time with one of our children and their lovely spouse. It is enough…..more than enough. It is the BEST!!

A short trip to St. Augustine

2012-01-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

We took a car trip to St. Augustine, on the east coast of Florida. It was a pretty quick drive through Orlando to Daytona Beach.... then we took the slow road north to St. Augustine. It's a lovely city, filled with fun (and lots of tourist attractions).

Our favorites were the very special...and very old places that set the tone for the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States.

Castillo De San Marcos National Monument
Oldest Fort in the USA

The Fort is on the Inter coastal waterway
A perfect spot on a perfect day.

Nombre de Dios Mission
A beautiful and quiet place
St. Francis watches over the garden.

A small chapel in honor of family

The Flagler College was once the Flagler Hotel.
One of the many beautifully appointed hotels
of a railway Magnate
(also, Co-Founder of Standard Oil)

And.... for Sweet Hubby..
What a Historical experience...
The World Golf Hall of Fame!!

Little bits

2012-01-08T13:47:00.000-08:00

Here are some little things that I worked on a few weeks ago. This week, we are heading out on an adventure....but I will be back at the end of the week. I expect to be back at the drawing table very soon.

Just playing one afternoon.....

Eat your veggies!
post cards anyone??

Bigger Project of the new year

2012-01-05T07:53:00.000-08:00

Here is the 'biggie' that I am working on. It is in colored pencil. I expect to work on it again soon, but I have to start re-upholstering a very strange 'pink' chair this week.... which will, again, take me out of the sun room, where I have set up a tiny space for work. At least you can see the beginning....with more to come!

Napa wine country in the Fall

New work for a New Year

2012-01-04T07:32:00.000-08:00

I have not had a lot of time to work these past few months, but my resolution (famous last words) is to work more....and to play, just as much. I had a chance to play last week, and did a few quick sketches from old cartoons (templates on tracing paper) and a few free style. You will definitely be able to tell which are which......

Here is the first:

Dragonfly on postcard watercolor paper
yes, it's pretty small

New Year's Wishes

2011-12-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

Peace and light in the world

Good Health

A little happiness and laughter

And maybe an extra penny
or two in our pockets!

Blessings in 2012

A gift, appreciated...

2011-12-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

photo from Jane Coslick's blog
A gift, appreciated

Today, I received a gift.... a huge surprise. I have my favorite blogs and while many are about art/artists/gardens, my favorite treat is to go to the Interior Design blogs and dream! There are so many ideas in these blogs created by another kind of artist.

I do not always leave comments on a blog, either. Unless, it is very special....I just don't. However, last week, I felt compelled to leave a comment on Jane Coslick's blog (http://janecoslick.blogspot.com/ ) . It's an amazing site and always a treat to see what she does with design and color. She was giving away a "Design Session". Oh, I just had to comment.... in the hopes of getting some help with our little abode, here in Florida.

Can you believe it?? I actually won! What a gift! Seriously, how could that happen to me? I am so delighted. I did the happy dance all around the house this morning.

I know that the season is about giving.... but, I will receive this gift of ideas, with gratitude and appreciate it, because that is important also.

Merry Christmas to all of you! Thank you for being my guests through out the year! You are a gift to me, that sustains me through the seasons. I want you to know that I appreciate you, as well.

Happy Hanukkah, too! We are lighting the candles every night with miracles in mind.

Blessings to all faiths...

Winter Solstice

2011-12-21T17:54:00.000-08:00

Blessing on this Solstice evening

A new sort of Holiday season

2011-12-19T14:51:00.000-08:00

My favorite way to celebrate the season
Flowers in bloom!

Enjoying a Concert of Holiday sounds
What could be better?

Add in a perfect sunset
Oh, pure joy!

lights glowing from a bamboo forest
Let Nature Sing!

Sweet sandy beaches, to warm the bones and the heart
I love my walks on Siesta Key
especially when the beach is a little bit empty of people

And that is it.... True Joys of the Holiday Season
Celebrating in a new way this year.

A touch of Christmas color

2011-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

These look to be Heliconia
(correct me if I am wrong)

A beautiful example of a Pitcher Plant

What a Bromeliad!!
I have never seen one this big....or in bloom!
(but I saw three in bloom, by flashlight, the other night.... truly amazing!)

Texture in leaves

2011-12-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

MSBG

2011-12-13T06:13:00.000-08:00

The Marie Selby Botanical Garden is my oasis here. It is such a gem of a Botanical Garden. We spent a cool day (cool, as in "it was really wonderful" and cool, in that it was in the low 60's, but sunny) last week, exploring all of the epiphytes and bromelieads and banyans....all treats...plus many more plants. They also have a home on their property that was originally owned by the Payne family. It has been decorated beautifully for the holidays, in the Southern style. Of course, the batteries ran out in my camera, just about the time that we strolled to the front door.... so no photos (unless we go back.... a distinct possibility).

Here is what we did enjoy:

Lush beauty of leaves and blooms

The delicate elegance of an Orchid

Anthurium

The Boat Parade (after the sun set)

2011-12-12T06:58:00.000-08:00

It is hard to see this one, but it was draped in soft lights.

The littlest boat gets the biggest photo......
the lighting was perfect.. for this 'racing car'

This 'Grinch" was just plain adorable.
It received the loudest cheers!!

It must be no small feat to put these together.
Penguins and their igloo!

This one had a little of everything on it.
I loved the Dragon
(for my dragon boy, Andy)

Enjoy these photos. I had a little camera with me, but it did manage to get some really good photos. The mist and rain did not start until the last boat had passed by. What a delightful way to spend the evening.

Harbor Boat Parade for the Holidays

2011-12-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

Here is something that is new to us: A boat parade! I have since mentioned it to several family members and friends and they had wonderful memories to share! Since we had not heard of it and we were rather curious, we went down to a local park on Lido Key and camped out until the sun went down.

Well..... what did we know about this 'event'....Nothing, that is for sure. The Family Campers showed up, tables appeared, wine, food, and friends. It was a 'happening' right there in the park by the Harbor. From 4:00 until 6:00....it was party time.... and then for dessert.... the boat show. All ages were there (mostly local families and friends.... kids on skateboards.... jumping, running, fishing off the little pier...)

I will put the "Before Sunset" photos on this blog, followed by the official boat parade, in the next blog.

Hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

waiting for the sun to set

Some people just sail out into the bay to watch the parade

Boats head toward the gathering space to line up.
They do not turn on the lights until the last minute.

This was a charter boat....seriously decked out with real Palms!

The 'Grinch' is not going to steal this Christmas!!
(wait 'til you see this in lights!)

Winter brings thoughts of Summer

2011-12-10T07:54:00.000-08:00

When it is cold out, or the sky is gray.... it's nice to think of Summer's gifts. Just a photo today, that says it for me and I hope, for you: (these plaques are around the grounds at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens....done by a local artist, I presume. They add so much to enjoying one's journey through the gardens).

A Winter's Day

2011-12-08T07:08:00.000-08:00

Today is very cold. We are bundling up and heading out to the Botanical Gardens, to visit their Christmas house and to see how the orchids are surviving the 40 degree temps. (that is cold for here). Two days ago, we were on the beach, and so very hot, we had to leave. Crazy!

Hope to have some interesting plant photos to share:

On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me....

Nine gawking birds......

Two French painters......

...And a shark's teeth hunter and his first mate!

Enjoy your holidays, where ever you are!

Weather patterns

2011-12-06T17:39:00.000-08:00

Winter is here.... well, not here, but it is Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. In Colorado, it is mighty cold (so I have been told...brrrr!) but in Florida, it is strangely summerishly Winter. Everything is out of whack, but we are truly enjoying the warmth.

Today, we went to the beach because it was 80 degrees. Oh, my, it was wonderful. We walked along a very special beach, where many people go to find sharks teeth. I found one today.... but others were working much harder to find them,and were being quite successful. I will take photos soon, of the many varieties of shells that we can find around here.

So, things are a bit upside down this year.... but I am going with it. Cards are finished.... presents sent..... donations made.... so, I am going to relax and start enjoying this Holiday season.

I hope you are doing the same.

Taking a nice walk on the beach....

Shelling on the beach.....

Turtles!!

Project complete....

2011-12-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

I thought that you might enjoy seeing the project that I have been working on. It is a painting project of another sort. I also changed the settings for a bit. The other was perfect for Fall, but this one feels more like where we are at the moment.... so bear with me, as I change things up on occasion.

I didn't even realize that a week had passed. Time is flying and I am embracing it, instead of panicking. Christmas cards are complete and on their way.... presents are being wrapped and tomorrow is the national matching day for donations.

So, if you are inclined to help others (and I am pretty sure ALL my readers are thus) Tuesday is the day to go to (and I hope that I have this correct....)

GivingFirst.org (or check in your area to make sure this is the right one). All donations will be matched, which means that we double the giving on Tuesday! It just can't get better than that!

Okay... here is my latest 'work of art' with a bit of the Holidays thrown in for good measure. (These are the bulk of my holiday decorations this year..... and those that know me well, will be astonished that I could possibly simplify this much). Anything is possible.

Happy Holidays!
I can't even tell you how
awful the original piece was.
Horrible - Terrible
but much better now!

I had fun painting the inside
a wonderful turquoise.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-11-27T09:25:00.000-08:00

We had a very relaxed and fun weekend with half of our kids and my Dad. The sun was out, the food was great, the company was most excellent.... we even passed the phone around with our other Son and daughter-in-law... so that it felt as if they were with us. That was as good as it can get.

We hope that you also had a wonderful Holiday, and if this is one that you do not celebrate.... at least, we hope that you had a wonderful weekend.

I still have not gotten the bug to draw or paint. When I do, I promise to share.

We love to head to our favorite
small beach for sunsets.
It's called "Turtle Beach",
on Siesta Key

(If you look closely,
you can see the seabirds
flying past the sun)

Artists from Brazil showing there stuff in Florida!

2011-11-25T16:40:00.000-08:00

Several weeks ago, we went to the Chalk Art Festival and enjoyed many Artist's work. Several artists came from Brazil and created one of the most endearing chalk art works of the show. Only problem, is that I didn't show it on the blog because my photo didn't do it justice.

At any rate, the Brazilian artists were asked to stay in Florida and create a mural on the side of an apartment building. We happened to be at lunch across the street and were watching them work. Within two weeks of the show, they had created this incredible wall art. I just had to share it with you.

So, enjoy. These artists are hoping to break into the Art Market in the United States.... I sure hope that they make it.

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving.... we certainly did. ....reminds me.... time for some pumpkin pie.

Happy weekend.

Where did this exciting work happen???
Why, Herald Square, of course....
an area filled with fun shops and great art.

This photo does not do it justice.
The Artists created the most endearing work.
The sun was too bright to really capture the work well.

The Artists at work during the Chalk Festival.

A new commission for the Artists from Brazil.
This is a three story building!

Another look at a beautiful piece of work,
that will be enjoyed for many years to come.

A week of painting (of another sort)

2011-11-18T14:06:00.000-08:00

I look at all of the vegetation around me and wish that I could pick up a paint brush. However, I have been painting.... just not the kind of painting that creates a picture. I have been trying to restore a console...which was truly a wreck and a horrid color. As one neighbor said.... you are making it 'sort of shabby chic'. Well, that is as good as it will get.... shabby, mostly, but hopefully a refreshing shade of creamy white with turquoise interior. It's beachy for sure.

On another note.... there are lots more photos of the sand sculptures, so without delay.... here they are:

This one was my favorite...
a fish, within a fish, within a fish

Notice the Colorado Crocs!
The detail of this was amazing.
We never did find out which one won!

This was only the start...but again,
the details amazed me.

This was a reflection of the times. The window is bolted...
the alarm clock is growling and she is cowering in her bed...
next photo will tell you why.

As you can see from the back of the house.....
they are having a yard sale, too.

This was a true reflection of the housing market in Florida (well, everywhere)
right now. I love the way he made this statement sing out loud.

Enjoy your weekend!

Land of Sand

2011-11-16T13:46:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, was the Sand Sculpting competition.
Sand for the competition was dredged
from several hundred yards out in the Ocean.
The area that they took the sand from,
was put into a GPS.
After the weekend, all the sculptures
were destroyed and the sand was taken
right back to the spot in the ocean
that it came from!
Amazing and environmentally,
a good idea!

Memorial Day weekend provided
wonderful ideas to honor our soldiers.

You never know just who you will find on the beach.
Love this fellow.... made me smile!

Another beautiful memorial
for our Veterans and
active soldiers.

and the last of the bunch...

2011-11-15T14:22:00.000-08:00

I just had to show you two more photos of the chalk art festival....because I loved them and forgot to put them into last weeks blog. Then, tomorrow, I will start showing the wonderful sand sculptures that we had a chance to see.

I have not been drawing at all. I am reading the most wonderful book about "The Creative Habit - learn it and use it for life" by Twyla Tharp. It is an amazing book that every one should read, if they want to think creatively or they need a booster shot for their creative spirit. She applies all the arts (as well as business) into this book. I would love to have my kids read it (creative beings that they are..... think they would love it).

Okay... photos for a while.... then, I hope to get back to some interesting work and share it with you.

This one tickled my funny bone

This one just popped off the street
I don't know if it translates
quite as well to a photograph.

More Chalk Art

2011-11-12T12:30:00.000-08:00

Today we headed for the beach, to the Sand Castle Festival. Twelve sand master teams (2 per team) were invited from all over the world, to compete in sand sculptures. It's hard to be amazed, after the chalk festival.... but we were, for sure.

Many sand Masters come from the Netherlands, which was a surprise....however, many countries were well represented. The interesting part is that many of the sand masters have degrees in Architecture or Art & Design (sculpture) and they also work in ice and snow sculptures. I have not downloaded those photos.... but I will share them next week.

Until then, you will have to delight in more chalk drawings. Oh my, it's a feast for the senses, and it's not even Thanksgiving, yet!!

Tomorrow.... we are headed to a concert, where my daughter-in-law will perform on the Saxophone. I am excited to hear the Band in their town, at their Civic Center.

My soul is filling up quickly.

This Artist was from Denver (see below)
Her chalks were the most vibrant of the Festival!
She worked from a piece of art of a good friend,
with permission from the artist.

Chalk Artist, Mythica von Griffyn
working from the art of Stephen Bennett.

I fell in love with this one!

The perspective on this was pretty cool
I like the subject matter, as well.

The detail on this was extraordinary.

An Adventure on the street

2011-11-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

We are warming our bones in Sarasota... yes, that is Florida! It was the break that I needed and it fills my spirit to be warm, and nearer to at least half of my kids. The other half are in Portland.... a cooler climate than I can handle this time of year...but we plan to head up there too, when it's warmer.

There are many festivals down here.... wonderful and creative things to do each week. Last weekend, was a Chalk Festival with artists from all over the country creating chalk drawings on the streets in downtown Sarasota. Seriously, they closed off the entire street in the historic district and Artists went wild with color and imagination. I did find out that they also have a wonderful Chalk Festival in Denver in the summer.... so I am definitely going to go to that next year!

Well, I will just share the photos as they are amazing (not the photos.... the art work in the photos). The only sad part is that after the Festival, street cleaners come and wash the art away....completely!!! In previous years, they have allowed the art to remain on the street until it slowly disappears. There was such a ruckus about the street cleaners this year that they are NOT going to do that again (hopefully).

Okay, you are patiently waiting for photos.... so here goes!

Everything is jam packed together,

one painting right next to the other,

which just fills you up with joy!

These are all done with chalk
which just 'blows me away'

I am back.....

2011-11-07T16:32:00.000-08:00

I did need a break, but I can never stay away too long. These photos are a bit old, but I wanted to share the mess that we had in our yard, when a huge snow storm hit Colorado last week. Unfortunately, it took a huge toll on our trees, and this is what happened in our back yard. Hopefully, the snow will be gone and clean up can take place very soon.

See you soon. I have lots to share.

Last week we had quite a snow storm.
We woke to a back yard that was a wreck.
(yes, those are tree limbs all over the yard!)

The limbs are still there...
as we await clean up help.

We left for a climate that is a bit warmer.
This photo was taken early
in the morning,
as we left.

500th post for CBA's blog!!

2011-10-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

I wish that I had a big cake with five hundred candles..... or a beautiful painting to share, but I will celebrate the five hundredth post with you as my guest.

I have enjoyed this blog and it has filled me with joy. I like sharing my work, and getting comments back from you. Many times, it has improved my work and it has always been interesting to hear your thoughts.

Now, I am going to take a break. I am going on a journey.... inside and out..... on my way for a while. I will definitely be back. It might take a week.... or a month.... or possibly after the holiday season.

I need a 'fill up' ..... for my creative side; my health, and my well being. I am not sure where this is taking me, but when I am renewed, I will return and share more work with you.

Until then..... Please be well. Love one another...... Give hugs generously..... Forgive others..... spend a little money (the economy needs it now), and Do your best.....believe me, that is good enough.

Bye for now......

Maybe, I will hit the road and take a drive

Maybe, I will take a plane....
and fly off to someplace exotic
(well, why not dream!)

Maybe, I will just rest for a while....

All my best wishes to you. Thanks for being there through out these many blogs. Goodbye for a while.

Counting Down

2011-10-21T15:34:00.000-07:00

I was so surprised to realize that this is my 499th post on this blog. I know that by some standards, it's not a landmark, but it did take me by surprise. My next blog post will be my 500th! I have really enjoyed doing this. I am infrequent, but hopefully, you always find something to take away from it...and hopefully, it lightens your spirit for just a moment in the day. That is always my hope, anyway.

We have been cleaning up our yard. The Summer is over and Fall is well on it's way to being Winter. Though our days our sunny and the leaves are at their peak, many are falling and creating wonderful piles to rake. I hate to see it go.... but we plan to follow the sun this year and head to a warmer climate for a bit. I shall blog from there and share new adventures with you.

Leaves are filling in the nooks
and crannies of the garden

Newer leaves seem to land
on top of the older ones,
creating great mulch for the garden.

The view over the back fence
create a beautiful tapestry
of golds and greens

All of our bins are filling up with
bits of the garden
and flowers, past their prime.

Favorite photos of the year....

2011-10-18T09:44:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about my work, a lot. I know that I want to work on some nests....feathers.... and eggs, but other things come to mind, as well. I went through my photos for the past year, and picked out a few of my favorites. I would like to see what I can do, using them as my energy and resource.

So, pick a favorite.... let me know......or just enjoy the show:

Lotsa plans ahead.....

2011-10-16T09:25:00.000-07:00

I finished up with my Egg & Nest class on Thursday. What a delight. I always meet wonderful artists.....make connections.... learn so much.... and produce more work. I must need that push to produce.

The other project of the week was the annual AAUW Book Fair, a labor intensive book sale, that provides funds for women's scholarships and Community Action Grants. As we age, the work, at times, seems daunting. We put so much time, energy and love into this project(it's been our fundraiser for over 50 years.... It has filled many spare moments this week and weekend. That is why I have not blogged THIS week. I seem to be making too many excuses, but I can't seem to manage everything and still get to the blog.

However, I am excited about more nest projects. I need to continue in the studio...and my motivation is nests and eggs. Since we will be traveling for a time, I plan to take some projects with me to work on. I photographed the nests in class, before our teacher had to take them back to the museum. I have enough good photos to work on several projects.

I will share a few of the nests with you:

Red Winged Black Bird nest
usually built near water

side view of Red Winged Black Bird nest

Yellow Rumped Warbler
They line their nests
with tiny twigs
and feathers.

My favorite: The House Finch nest.
However, this is the city nest
which is filled with yarn, paper &
other ephemera from the streets.
The Country nest is entirely different!
if you double click on this one you will see all the 'stuff'

Checking my 'stats'

2011-10-11T13:32:00.000-07:00

My time is flying..... I don't know about yours, but it just seems to speed by and I haven't updated my blog. Today, however, I went to my 'stats', which according to Blogger, are the statistics of viewers of my blog.

I have many viewers from the United States, but Poland comes in second. Somehow, that thrills me. My husband is German/Polish and I like the fact that they can enjoy my work in this small and interconnected world. Secondly, the Mac users are catching up to the PC users, but we have a ways to go on that one.... and the Ipad users are a small but mighty bunch. I don't have too many viewers to my blog each day, but I think that the ones who check in are pretty loyal....so Thanks to those of you who do stop by for a visit.

I have never wanted to fill my blog with advertising, rather, I wanted to put my photos and my work out there for the Universe to enjoy. Don't get me wrong..... it's nice if you can make money from your blog... but it it not a choice that I want to make at this point.

Just thought that I would share those tidbits, before I show you what I have been trying to complete. Believe it or not... it's not done yet. I still have some highlights to pop in on the painting.....which I think that I will save for class on Thursday. It's almost over and I will miss it (class that is...). It's been one of the best I have taken....most likely because I just love the subject material. Nests intrigue me. I plan to study and paint nests, a lot more in the coming months.

So, here is the Wilson's Warbler nest..... almost finished....

Nest of the Wilson's Warbler

Aspen Wednesday...

2011-10-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

Caribou Aspen

It's still so beautiful here, but rain is expected this weekend. I am basking in the sunshine each day and enjoying the warmth of it.

I did a quick study of the Aspen - from our weekend hike. I share them with you today. This year (and it's not every year that this happens) there are deep orange.... almost red Aspens. Love them all.

A - Corny view of Fall

2011-10-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

When ever I take a walk out side, I end up with pockets full of leaves, rocks, acorns..... what ever catches my eye and lands on the ground. I figure that if it's on the ground, it's fair game.

Today, I found some very red Maple leaves...... a few weeks ago, it was tons of acorns (you have to quickly grab a few, as the squirrels are feasting for the winter months). So, I did a quick painting of an Acorn and leaf.

I did another quick painting of some Aspen....just to catch their color.... I will share that on Wednesday.

Up in the high 80's today..... whew, a bit warm for October!

Acorn.... inside and out!

Had to share this beauty!

2011-10-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

We took a hike yesterday (well, a bit more like a nice walk) at Caribou Ranch, in Nederland. It was glorious! The Aspen are singing right now.... at the height of their beauty. So, enjoy the photos from my "point and shoot" camera.....

When the sun was out,
the leaves just shimmered
in the light.

Lots of hikers were on the trail,
enjoying perfect Fall weather.

I love the groves of Aspen
along the trail.
....a few clouds and a spatter of rain.

Looking up to the trees all around.
I love everything about the Aspen tree.

Looking down, you could find the reds.
browns, yellows,& greens
of the forest floor.

Completed Project

2011-09-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

I am excited to say that I have finished one of the nests! I still have another, more complicated one, to do, but the hummingbird's nest is complete. I had so much fun doing it, and the class continues to enthrall me.

I also have really enjoyed being in the Botanic Gardens on these glorious Fall days. The air is cool, but the sun warms your bones, without overheating you. It is simply the perfect time of year, and a favorite time in Colorado. We do not get the bright reds that other areas get, but the green and gold of the foothills, can take your breath away.

Fall sunsets, also have the power to give you pause and be grateful. This is G-d's handiwork and I just can't get enough of it.

Enjoy your weekend. Sit in the sun..... watch a sunset.... hug one another and breathe deeply. These are special days in a glorious season.

Hummingbird's nest
graphite

Hummingbird's nest
watercolor

Humming along....

2011-09-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Not exactly..... humming, that is...... hacking and croaking is more like it, but I am definitely on the mend and my energy is slowly coming back to normal. Today is a free day.... no obligations, so I am IN the studio and working away.

I needed to come and print some photos of the hummingbird nest I am working on, so I can manage the details accurately. Here are a few glimpses of the samples that I am working from. One looks a lot like a pipe, to me. The other is more of the nest (the one in the box...which is too fragile to take out of the box) with the hummingbird eggs.

I am excited to get back to class and work from the real thing. I plan to take more photos as I wasn't too thrilled with these.

This photo is actually turned around
from the way I am drawing it....but it gives
me enough clues to work with the drawing that
I have started..... doesn't it look like a pipe?

This nest is about 3 inches across.
the eggs are about 1.5 mm...just tiny.
The details on this nest are much more to
my liking, so I will incorporate
some of these details in my 'pipe nest'

Under the weather continues.....

2011-09-24T10:32:00.000-07:00

Don't you love a Fall cold..... that goes on and on..... and on...... Nope, me neither! However, I can't seem to shake this one, so I have been taking more naps and trying to get through my obligations first. So, blogging has taken a back seat.

I started a new class at the Denver Botanic Gardens. What a delight, it is. We were lucky enough to be able to borrow nests and eggs from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Some of the nests are from the late 1800's! We were also treated to a lecture from one of the young researchers, who filled us in on the many details of nesting.

I decided to work on two nests: A Wilson's Warbler and a Hummingbird. I had planned to work on the Wilson's warbler nest, but one of the other students is also working on it....and no one opted for the Hummingbird, so I grabbed it. However, over the next few months, I plan to do several more nest paintings, and I will have all the research and sketches done for the Wilson's Warbler.

Okay.... Here are some photos of the nest (since we cannot bring them home, we must take photos for reference, and then work in class).

All the nests are documented and boxed
mine was found in 1988

The Wilson's Warbler make their
nests in low bushes near water.
The bird's coloring is a bright yellow
and they are noted song birds.

Here is some of the detail.
The nest is about 4x6 inches...
small and delicate.

More from the Farmer's Market

2011-09-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

I have been 'under the weather' with a fall cold....and I think I was a bit muddled for a few days before it hit. I have been fighting something all Summer, but I am going in for a check up soon and find out what is going on. However, in the mix of the muddle, I missed the rest of the Farmer's Market photos. I just love the bright colors of this season.

"Mums" in burnt orange, yellow, purple
Don't they just say "Fall"

Oh, the sweetness of an Onion!

I can see a sketch of these!

Another sketch!
Aren't these just radishing?

The Gardens with Allan Houser

2011-09-16T15:02:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to have
these sculptures in the gardens

Each sculpture is
a compliment
to Nature

One of my favorites
I hope that you get to
the gardens to see this exhibit.

For the Most Part.....

2011-09-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

For the most part, my work on the Sunflower is complete. I know that I will go back and noodle with it in a few weeks...but for now it is resting.

Tomorrow, I will share more of the Farmer's market. What a vibrant source of material. I do enjoy the fruits of labor that so many people bring to the market. It's truly a highlight of the season.

See ya soon.

Sunflower
After the Bloom

Local Farmer's Market

2011-09-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

Can't you just taste the salsa?

oh yum....
Bacon, Basil, Lettuce & Tomato sandwiches

A favorite of mine....
Potato Soup

Eggplant is just beautiful

Local Sweet Corn.....
Butter....
OMG!
nothing better!

Reflecting today

2011-09-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

I finished up the sunflower....and it's resting before I add the final touches. I also finished up my class, which I loved. It is going to redefine my future as an artist (or acknowledge what I already know about my art). I plan to change my artist's statement as well. Next week...these changes will start. But, today I am reflecting.

My sweet hubby and I were trying to have an "un-vacation". It's not working as well as we would like. While I love setting aside time just for us, we have lived in this community for so long, there there isn't a lot of new exploration. We planned hikes, and lunches out..... looking at the usual places with new eyes. After three days, we decided that we needed a day off just to get some work done (Seriously!!). It's hard to take an un-vacation when there are piles of stuff all around.

So, today, we are taking a break....Remembering 9/11, and where it has taken us. Our hearts feel heavy this weekend, as we revisit this moment in time.

Remembering September 11th,
every day

My Sweet hubby went out this morning and bought me The New York Times. There is no sweeter treat for me than a Sunday morning with the NY Times! As I read through it, a Macy's ad on the back of their tribute to 9/11 caught my eye. Macy's said it perfectly:

"Hug your children

Spend the day with family

Think of an old friend

Wave to your neighbor

Go for a long walk

Light a candle

Share your thoughts

Take a moment for yourself

Be there for someone else

Watch the Sunset

Look forward to the sunrise

Today, in your own way, remember and reflect. September 11,2011

We have a winner!

2011-09-07T12:41:00.000-07:00

Emily guessed correctly!!.... it is a sunflower that has passed it's bloom.

There is a good story with this one. My Art Group gathered at a friend of one of the members of the group. She happened to live on a farm, outside our town. We had a lovely morning and as we headed home, we passed another farm that had been growing sunflowers. By this time, it was January, and the field was filled with snow.... and a few left over ....very dead..... Sunflowers.

My friend, Jill, yelled out...."Stop the car" and our driver, Rosie pulled over. Out hopped Jill....running out to the field and pointing to each Sunflower...."Is this the one I should pick?" We were sitting in the warmth of the car yelling out which one we thought was the perfect specimen.... and then another..... three in all.

We put them in a paper bag to dry out and eventually to draw. I am the first one to volunteer (am I crazy, or what?) to draw the 'dead thing" as my sweet hubby likes to describe these beauties that are past their bloom.

See, I definitely put myself in the "Past the Bloom, Sunflower Stage". There is still so much beauty... but it takes a bit more looking, to see it. Three cheers for all those Sunflowers, past their bloom!!

So, thanks for guessing and thanks Emily....glad you could tell just what it was. (Check out Emily's blog - "BLAHG" which has a link on the side).

Back to work.....

A Sunflower, past it's bloom.
colored pencil

Second stage......

2011-09-06T11:26:00.000-07:00

First guess...... bulbs....
Nope, it is not a bulb.
(Hint: this cannot be used to make new blooms,
but is leftover after the
wonderful blooms have passed.)
(bigger hint: birds love this plant...
great snacking in it's seeds....
humans like the seeds as well)

Labor Day

2011-09-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day

This week, as I work on my present project, I will photograph each day's progression. It's slow but steady with this one...... one day at a time. My labor is not laborious.... just a passionate experience, almost every time I get to work in the studio.

It's a start.....
More tomorrow
Theme: "Past the bloom"
Can you guess what I am working on?

Textures from the garden

2011-09-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

The heat has calmed down a bit and the evenings are cooler. This makes for 'happy plants'. They are getting a new breath of life in them. Enjoy!

Nasturtiums

Still growing strong
Clematis

A burst of yellow,
a pop of black
Black Eyed Susans

grasses by the creek

Dance of the Curcubitas

2011-09-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

You can always tell when I am taking classes...... I let the blog slip. Honestly, it shouldn't make such a difference in my time, but it does. I have had much 'pondering' to do with this class. What my style will be; where I will take my art; finding places to show it, and what defines me as an artist. Seriously, how can I draw, when I am so befuddled by these questions.

I have been working on a piece for the class..... meant to define my style. I have barely begun it, but I will share it in the next week.....yes, I promise!

On the bright side, I took a meander through my garden and came up with some surprises. We always plant mini-pumpkins and gourds in the garden.... and It just kills me to wait on their growth. I have found two beautiful white pumpkins that are growing like wildfire..... the rest are just starting to dance among the massive leaves.

Tomorrow, I will share some textures of the garden. I took some great photos to share. I can tell that we are getting to the end of the summer, as the spider webs are winning, and the leaves are feeding the masses (lots of holes in them).

Just a note.... one comment in..... NO FLASH on the camera. (thank you.... and I agree!)

The bloom,,,
and the dance begins

Rocking the bright color of late summer

Dancing partner ready to lead...

Could be a white pumpkin.....we shall see

Talk about a hair cut....

2011-08-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

What a shock!!! We are getting our street repaired and of course, there are many trucks and worker bees outside our door. However, we did NOT expect that they would give our glorious Blue Spruce a haircut on it's bottom half. Seriously, there were two 4 foot piles of branches left, when they were done.

I will say, that trucks have had a difficult time turning the corner with all the growth that had taken place in the last 6-8 years. However, we loved the look, and now it looks.... well.... naked!

We will plant bulbs and try to make it lovely for the coming years, but honestly, I wept a little bit for the lost glory (and humiliation) of this grand tree.

The branches of our Blue Spruce
were actually touching the ground.
You can tell how far they went out
because of the pile of needles underneath.

With all the extra space underneath
the tree, we now have room for plantings.
What would you put there?

What I have been up to around here

2011-08-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

I am back..... whew, last week was a rough one. Too many obligations and not enough time. Throw in a bit of stress, and voila.... migraine! By Friday, I was down for the count and it took several days to pull myself together.

However, before I was struck in the head.... I managed to do some work. I finished the piece that I was working on.... actually it's in the 'resting stage' for a few weeks. I have moved on for a bit, but will come back to it.

I took two photos and I just thought that you might enjoy seeing how the flash vs non-flash works. I can't decide which one I like best, but photography can really affect the work.

Quince
taken with a flash

Quince
taken without a flash

This week is hectic, as well, so hopefully, I can get into the studio and get some work done. I promise to have something to show, soon.

Odd's and Ends today...

2011-08-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

As you can see, I am finally getting my photos back on line. We had nothing but trouble yesterday....but eventually (after heading to the Computer Store.... thinking it was fixed .... and then coming home and spending two more hours on the phone....) managed to get everything to work. Sometimes, computers take up too much of our lives!

Well, it's fixed and that is good......

I love the bark of an Aspen Tree.

Other bits of news that probably will not be important to you but is to me.... I heard from my son today. He was 'on the road' and is going 'on the road' again..... visiting NYC, and then moving from the Bay area north to Portland. I don't think our kids realize just how much it means to know that they are happy, healthy and doing okay. It doesn't have to be great all the time, but okay is good...and knowing that they are okay is even better. Kids do not like Mom's to 'bug' them...so sometimes, we let them "be" for a while (and believe me, it kills me to do that, as I am the best "Helicopter Mom" on this earth!).

Thistle
To me, a beautiful flower

My other son wrote about me in his blog. He actually listened to a suggestion, tried it and liked it. Here is what he had to say:

The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great book recommend by my mother. I wish I would have read it earlier, but then again it was recommended by my mother and I thought it would be too sappy. Not true at all. I love my mom but the sure way for a man not to read something is for his mom to recommend a book. Even if my mom was Daryl Hannah.

That brings a smile to a Mom's face. I know.... it has nothing to do with Botanical Illustration. My life is filled with Art and I love it..... but nothing.... NOTHING.... comes close to the love and passion I have for being a Mom to the two best kids around.

So, lastly, here is my quote from "The Help" which I loved reading and I plan to see next week with two girlfriends. It is a quote, from the book and in the movie.... and it is meant for every child out there, but, most especially, mine.

"You is Kind. You is smart. You is important."

Computer Glitches today...

2011-08-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Hello, friends.....

Today we took our computer into the store for a checkup. See, the photo part of my computer is NOT working and it needed to be fixed, before I could show more photos, etc.

We just arrived home and I was quite excited to get back to blogging with you. However, NOW.... nothing works! Arg! Everything was fine when we worked with the computer Geek.....so now, why is my photo program NOT working? Sweet Hubby is not happy and not sweet right now.... nor am I. Grrrrrrr....

So, I am going with "patience" this week and will patiently take my computer back to the computer geek to solve this problem.

I promise.... I will be back.....

Hiking at Caribou Ranch

2011-08-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hiking at Caribou Ranch is a favorite thing to do. We usually get there just in time for the wonderful wild flowers, which pop up in July. However, this year, we headed to Jackson Hole, WY, which put us behind on our Caribou connection.

Off we trundled on Wednesday, for a lovely morning of walking, talking, sharing memories of our many years together. It was a quiet respite in an otherwise crazy busy week.

I share some photos with you, in hopes that you can find a quiet moment of calm.

a pop of color in the soft meadow

We found one Mariposa Lily on the entire hike
(in July, the meadow is filled with them)

It is the season of yellow.... Fall can't be far behind

Our Anniversary Photo
Still together after all these years!
(and we are grateful)

A few days off...

2011-08-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

Hi..... I will be hiking, and schooling for the next few days, so I don't plan to blog for a bit.

Wednesday is our Anniversary....and we plan to hike and enjoy the day together. That is something that we could not do in the past because of work.... but retirement affords us the luxury of enjoying a day in the mountains to celebrate 42 years of marriage.

Thursday is a school day. Just like the kids, I am heading off to class at the Botanic Gardens. I can't wait. I have all my pencils and paints in my pack and I am ready to learn new things.

And I choose..... "Life is Good" How about you? Choose to be happy today...and maybe we can change the world.

Quince - idently.....

2011-08-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I started sketching the fruit of the Quince bush outside our front door. Last year, there was very little fruit, but this year, the tree is filled with these very hard little treats. So, I continue to work on it.... and I thought you might enjoy a peek. I will photograph it again, when it is complete.

As you can see, I am working on
several things at the moment.
The original Quince dried up,
so I continue to add as I go along.

I have finished a bit more
since this photo was taken.
I am also working on a color sample
for my next piece.....
Cabbage, scallions, and beets
Oh, my!

Onward and forward....

2011-08-05T14:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a completed drawing from several weeks ago. I heard from a reader, that it's nice to see the work in progress, but sometimes I forget to put it on the blog, when it's done.

I will share that the reason that I don't put it on the blog again, is that something has either gone really bad or maybe, just semi-bad, and I don't like the piece anymore. However, that is not so fair to the readers, as they should know that some work ends up in the circular file (and that is really old phraseology for the wastebasket). This one was heading there....may still be. I haven't decided. But, I will share it with you, all the same....

A watercolor pencil sketch
completed with colored pencil
from a Friday Art Group session

Have a great weekend! Stay cool!

From a sketch to finished work...

2011-08-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

Remember the sketches that I did in Grand Teton National Park (with crayons and a steno tablet)? With notes and the sketches, I worked on the piece below. I did manage to complete something this week. It's getting harder and harder to find time in my studio, but I continue to give it my best shot. This week, I did manage several days of work. First piece today.... another completed one tomorrow.

Okay, enjoy......

L. to R.: Arrowleaf Balsamroot; Dogbane; Indian Paintbrush

Time to work in the garden!

2011-08-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

It's time! Our window boxes are starting to literally fall apart, and we have never had any trim on them. Several, were also starting to rot, so the wood needed to be replaced. My husband has been measuring, sawing, repairing and painting for the last week or so....and I can tell you that the window boxes are looking much better.... Terrific comes to mind.

We still need to paint the shutters.....(notice I say "We" .....when, in actuality, my husband is doing all of the work...while I trim up the garden and weed. But, It's a pretty good trade off). So, here's a peek....

the old window box with new trim
before it was sanded & painted

This one was almost a lost cause
but amazingly, sweet hubby
put it all back together, better than ever!

There was more than one window box
that needed a lot of repair.

Ta Da!!
Don't these look a lot better?
Now, scraping and painting the shutters begins.
It just never ends.....

This one's for my boys!

2011-07-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

When we talked to our kids, before we headed up to Grand Teton National Park, my older son (not a kid anymore, but always my kid), asked about the town of Jackson Hole. He wanted to know two things..... if the theater was still there (where he went to see a movie with his Dad, while his little brother took a nap)..... and if the antlers were still in the downtown square.

Well, of course, both were still there. If you look closely, you will note that Harry Potter was visiting last week. Movies delight children, as well as, adults... but the old movie theaters are the best of the memories. I am grateful that Jackson Hole has kept some of old, but wonderful treasures. This theater is one.

As for the Antlers in the Town Square.... they are most definitely still there. I wanted to take a photo of them and it took a good ten minutes, because so many people wanted to pose in front of them. So, kids, these photos are for you. Some memories of times past, when we had our great adventures in the outdoors.... and a few fun adventures inside a treasured theater.

See, it's still there!
A great piece of JH history
(and a bit of our family's history, as well)

One last look at the Grand Tetons
taken from Signal Mountain

Here they are!....
Each corner of the square
sports the Antlers.
Great memories of childhood.

Celebrating the flowers in the Park

2011-07-27T10:36:00.000-07:00

When we head to a National Park, I often, do not get time to sketch. We are too busy exploring. I always intend to do it, but I end up choosing to carry a lighter load....without pencils, sketchbook and some source of color.

So this time, I just took a small camera...with no sketching materials at all. However, after we spent the morning at Signal Mountain, I was itching to sketch the flowers. We popped into the mini-mart at the campgrounds and this is what I found:

1 green steno book

1 pkg. 8 Crayola crayons

We scrounged around the car and found a pencil....#2...sort of sharpened...and I was off and running. Now, let me tell you that crayons are fun, but they don't translate the color exactly, so I had to add some notes....but it got the idea across, so I can go ahead and do a bit of work in the studio. Actually, the steno book turned out to be a surprise....as the lines helped me to align the flower.

Okay...so take a peek...(sorry, did not draw the Penstemon).

Big Red Penstemon
(Husker Red)
Sorry....all you C.U. fans!

Sketches of flowers
previously seen

Indian Paintbrush
(This was very pink and
was hard to capture with the red crayon)

Here is the Paintbrush
in all it's glory

Rain Day.....on to Jellystone

2011-07-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Mid-week, the rains were expected, so we headed to "Jellystone" as we prefer to call Yellowstone. That's were we saw all of the Bison....and then went on to climb above Yellowstone Falls. It is a beautiful part of the Park with many rich landscapes. It was also very warm in the morning (as we hiked) but cooled off in the afternoon and then started to pour and drop 20 degrees in a matter of minutes (this was later in the afternoon). It was just a delicious day.

The photos are all out of order.... sometimes, I do that..... but you can get the idea...

We climbed a trail that dropped off a good bit.
I am not one for cliffs or heights,
so my sweet hubby took many of these photos.
Still I managed to hike this with only a few prayers.

Mud pots greeted us through out the park.

I love the smell of sulphur springs
gurgling, hot mud pots...

From below, you can see rainbows.
But up above, you can see the Majesty.

Can you see a bit of the rainbow?
The spray is probably two stories high.
The sound is brilliant from where we
were hiking.

On top of ol Signal (mtn)

2011-07-25T15:48:00.000-07:00

Early one morning, we drove up to Signal Mountain and took some photos. You could see the mountain range, as well as the valley and river (lakes, too) below. There were a few flowers that were smiling that morning, so thought I would share these photos today.

Just a little note: it was about 47 degrees up at the top of Signal Mountain at 9:00 a.m......but it warmed up quickly.

The morning moon was out;
the lake was calm,
and
all was well with the world.

The beautiful valley below

I loved the texture of the trees
on the grasslands, below us.

Arrowleaf Balsamroot
greets the morning sun

More photos of the Wild West

2011-07-24T15:49:00.000-07:00

This was the view from our Cabin window
We stayed at a small cabin
at the Jackson Lake Lodge
What a treat to be staying inside
Grand Teton National Park.

It looks like we are out in the wilderness
However....

This is better than a traffic light!
Mom & Dad were in no hurry
and Junior was just a wee bit nervous...
But, what a 'photo op'

Baby Bison scrambled after Mom & Dad
until he/she was safely on the other side of the road.
Then, they all relaxed and cotinued grazing.

Wild. Wild West

2011-07-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

We headed to Yellowstone, which is connected to the Grand Tetons and only about an hours drive through the park. It was a beautiful morning and storms were expected in the afternoon, so off we went.

Wouldn't you know..... as soon as we hit Yellowstone, we ran into (almost literally....) a herd of Bison....better known as Buffalo in the wild, wild West!

Love these guys.... so mellow
(well, I was in the car!)
They love to wallow in the mud
when the mosquitoes start bugging them
(that was an intended pun).
They still had their winter coats hanging off of them...
it's been quite a cool and wet Spring in the Northwest.

There were so many people "cruising America"
Many were from outside the United States,
which I love. Every time we popped out of the car
we could hear many languages, other than English.
What a way to see the Wild West!!

Hanging out by the lake.
Can you see the little one towards the back?
More on that sweet baby, later.

How about that Traffic?
It didn't seem to bother Billy the Bison (at all)
He just took his sweet time crossing the road.

People stop for all wildlife and sometimes,
forget that it IS wildlife.
That's why we have called ourselves "Tourons"
(if you need a translation, let me know).

On a Journey North

2011-07-23T15:25:00.000-07:00

We headed North to Wyoming, to cool down a bit, hike, chill out, and relax. It was a great break and as always, good for the soul. I love the Grand Tetons and Grand Teton National Park. It is smaller than Yellowstone, with less (obvious) wildlife, and wild flowers that will knock your socks off. The views aren't bad either. These Northern Rockie Mountains rise up to meet you, every day. We were lucky enough to be able to stay inside the Park at our favorite place. It was quiet and restful and for a short break, it was just perfect.

In the next few days, I will show you more photos..... letting them speak for me.

A view of the range and Jackson Lake

Flowers on the trail around Jenny Lake

Wasn't it nice of them to
put a sculpture right on the trail??

Clouds gathered for a rainstorm.
Flowers, flowers, everywhere!

Two Posts today..... TGIF!!

2011-07-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

Our Art group is trying to stay employed, stay healthy, and get together on Friday mornings. It's not always possible, but we have been working really hard to make it happen. With the sketchy job market, several members are having to prioritize and WORK! We are just grateful when we can manage to get most of us together.

Today was such a day.....only one person had to work early, so we put our paintbrushes, colored pencils and water color pencils to paper and got to work. It felt good to get some work done.

You will notice that our Hydrangea's have a definite purple cast, rather than blue..... just can't get that soil to a happy place, here in Colorado. Still, I am thrilled that they grow, no matter the color.

So, here is the unfinished piece..... just the show you what I have been up to this week.

Friday Art group
water color pencil sketch
incomplete

We have had torrential rains, lots of lightening (which turns off all of our computers for long stretches), and a bit of flooding (though not at our house, thank goodness). Usually, Coloradans are praying for rain, but after nine days of storms, I think we are good for a bit. It's hot and steamy....which is NOT normal for this dry high plains part of the country.

Have a great weekend. I hope it's not sweltering, storming, freezing, or too extreme in your neck of the woods. Everyone deserves a nice break, don't you think?

I am sending you all hugs..... Be Well!

Getting some work done...

2011-07-15T15:30:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to print out some new cards, and avoiding the process. It is hard to get the printing done in a cost effective manner, and to have the colors come out just the way I want them.

A while ago, I had some printing done and had all of the work put on discs. However, when I went to re-print from this disc, I had lost some of the information. It's a long story, but let's just say that the technical expertise at the printers was less than stellar. However, after having dealt with a BIG NAME printing company and spending over two hours and many, many, many (too many) dollars printing a set of cards, I went back to the less stellar printer, who worked with me on another disc until we were both happy with the result. This extra service and help came at 1/3rd the cost of the BIG NAME company. Isn't that interesting? From here on out, I will work with my new bff at the 'newly stellar' smaller printer.

Some lessons are learned with a bit more difficulty. The business side of my art is the hardest part for me.... a continual learning curve, you might say.

I am glad that the weekend is here!

Plus, my new glasses are in, which just might help me with future drawing. I went retro with big ol' circle glasses...... time to step out and stretch from 'tradition'!!

Finally.......

Why. oh why......Does Summer fly by...

2011-07-11T13:50:00.000-07:00

I realized that a week had passed since my last blog entry. What was I doing? Where is the time going? Why does the Summer pass so quickly, when those cold months of Winter seem to last forever?

If you just happened to watch the Woman's Open Golf Tournament on television this weekend, you would know that Colorado is having a few weather interruptions these days. It seems that we are enjoying the most beautiful mornings ever....... and then around 3:00 in the afternoon, the sky darkens, the clouds billow, and the lightening & thunder take over. We end the day with a torrential rain (gully washer, as we like to call it) and then the sun steps out to say, "Good evening".

So, I have been out and about in the morning......and by the time I get down to work in the studio.....the lighting is all wrong. Also, I must admit to some home projects (like steam cleaning all of the carpets....i.e.moving all of the furniture around), some fun outdoors stuff (golf, walking, biking, time with friends) and a few adventures (actually getting to go to the US Woman's Open Golf Tournament in Colorado Springs). It's my summertime bliss.

I did manage a few days of work last week, so I will let you have a peek......

still working away at the peony

A close up of the work.....

Alas, the flowers have moved on......

Celebration Day!

2011-07-04T10:21:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY,
AMERICA!

......And the last of the garden tour photos!

2011-07-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

Ah..... the last of the lot..... the Garden tour is over! Are you sad or glad? I am a bit sad, because I do love to visit and revisit these amazing flowers and gardens. Of course, you can just pop back to the blog any time and capture the essence of the garden tours from this year. I think I enjoy that the most, when it's in the middle of Winter and I am dreaming of the garden.

Our little Art Group has been plagued with distractions for the last few months.... and today, we managed to get together for the first time in four weeks. It was much needed and fun. I did a water color pencil drawing of a geranium..... just sketching and putting color down without hesitation. I forget how much I enjoy just letting loose and playing with my watercolors.

Well, the 4th of July weekend is upon us. There will be much to do.... from biking to hiking.... from local concerts to picnics..... and of course the grand finale ...."FIREWORKS!!!".

I love it all! I hope that your weekend is filled with lots of Summer Fun.

Enjoy these last photos from the Park Hill Garden Tour:

Rhododendrons are so hard to grow here
and this one was perfection

This patio was literally
excavated out of a hill.
It is now a lovely room that
opens to a very private gated patio.

The owner of this house took a pick ax
and went down three feet, to excavate
this beautiful water garden.
Not only was he a creative designer
but a committed gardener!

Two Clematis
intertwined

Last, but certainly not least.....

Yet, another gardener, dug out his back yard
to create this lovely space.

What I loved most and appreciated, was that all of these gardens were a 'hands on' experience for the Owners. They had their own vision and did the work themselves (with the exception of the top excavation for the patio). The results are so much more personal and loving.

Enjoy your weekend! Let the Celebrations begin!!

Just enjoy the garden....

2011-07-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

Have a very Happy Birthday, America!

Happy 4th of July

Today is July 1st (hope you said "Rabbits") and I will not be posting again until July 5th or so. So, I am leaving you with more photos to enjoy. Have a great weekend.

California Poppies

Allium

I believe this is a Begonia

Fire bush Tree

We interrupt this program....

2011-06-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been quite odd. We have had wild gusts of wind, some small spurts of rain and my computer decided that it did not like this energy, so it would not let me get onto the Internet. As a result, I am downloading several days of photos for you to look at.

With more small to medium fires in the foothills, and temperatures in the 90's, the air is cloudy instead of clear. Hopefully, the fires will get under control and the temperatures will settle down (not likely until after this Fourth of July weekend), the cotton will stop flying off of our dear old Cottonwood tree and the garden will pop back to normal. Right now, it looks a bit worn out.

As we walked the neighborhood on last weekend's garden tour, we found some gardens that had not been chosen for the tour.... but were worthy of a peek. So, here are a few photos of some lovely spots along the way. We just felt that we could sit and enjoy for awhile....in these beautiful gardens.

Scabiosa.... always a beauty.

I was so tempted to just walk into this
back yard and enjoy a quiet afternoon with a book.
Isn't this a lovely entryway??

This front porch with the old chair
painted in lime....popping against the
Geraniums.....love it!
(Where's my lemonade??)

Another perfect idea for
recycling a tree that had to be cut down
They kept the base and placed
These Petunias on it.
"Bee U Tee Full"

Garden Harmony

2011-06-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

Today, I will let the gardens speak for themselves..........

The owner of this home
created this entire project.

Hydrangea's tucked in a shady corner

Another creative corner that
the above owner designed.

Where would Colorado be
without our beautiful Columbines

Sweet Pig

2011-06-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Good Monday Morning! There was a fire in the Boulder Foothills last night...... the constant fear of fire in the Summer is not to be underestimated. The GOOD news is that they were getting it contained quickly...making it a good morning, today.

Along our garden tour walk on Saturday, we found several houses that were not on the tour, but actually had pretty amazing gardens. So, I figured "Why not take a few photos???" Here is one garden that captured our hearts. I just wanted to sit down and relax.....admire the sweet & silly pig, and sip a glass of ice tea.....

I hope this gives you the same feeling that I had. More photos all week long....and hopefully, so decent art work to share by the end of the week.

This Sweet pig welcomed all guests

I have no clue what this leaf (or tree) is...... Do YOU???
I just loved the color it provided

A perfectly relaxing spot in the front year
to sip some iced tea and visit with the neighbors

The entire garden welcomes you
I just wanted to share the total garden
which welcomed you to the back yard.

What a Garden Tour!!

2011-06-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

This was our last garden tour of the summer. It was in Sweet Hubby's old stomping ground, and we just couldn't resist. When my husband was starting school, this was his neighborhood. As we parked our car to get the tickets at Montview Presbyterian Church..... we noticed that right across the street was the Montview Public Library.....where Sweet hubby checked out his first library book. The whole day was filled with a bit of nostalgia, but also a sweet thrill, because this old stomping ground of great diversity, in Denver, has grown into a beautiful, proud, cohesive collection of people, homes and gardens. It was a day of delight. The special treat was that each garden was hosted by the owner, who's pride in their garden (not to mention the first hand knowledge of design and plantings....and work involved) was a treat. All in all, despite a very warm day, it was a perfect way to spend.... in other people's gardens.

I don't think we will ever miss this tour again
The tree lined streets and beauty of this neighborhood
will draw garden lovers, for years to come.
(that is my hope!)

Montview Presbyterian Church
hosted the ticket purchase
as well as
their newly planted "Contemplative Garden"
(I didn't want to leave)

Tiger Lily
A sure sign of Summer in Colorado

Several years ago, we started seeing more
Japanese Maple trees
Many of these are getting to a place of glory.

I will be sharing photos all week. Hopefully, by the end of the week, I will also have some work to share with you.