tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5162065260745784462024-02-19T00:28:45.668-06:00Sew forth & sew onConnie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.comBlogger192125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-44196400849885521122013-04-02T20:01:00.000-05:002013-04-02T20:01:14.341-05:00Long Time GoneI hope someone missed me in the extended time I've been away from blogging. It's been a bit over 3 months; I never meant to stay away so long. First interference was getting sick & sicker over the Christmas & New Years holidays. That lasted about 4 weeks so Jan. was shot. <br />
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Feburary was totally nose to the grindstone as the deadline rushed toward us to get ready for the Abbotts to vacate their apartment and move into Rocking Oaks. That only happened with lots of very long days & more painting than I want to see for a long time to come. Karl & I followed on March 6th with basic furniture. Art on the walls is yet to come. We have lots more house details & projects to finish; lots of unpacking & sorting with accompanying decisions to be made on what to keep and what to let go. <br />
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If you've read here before you know that we;ve built Rocking Oaks with another couple, Kathy & Phil Abbott. Kathy & I have been close friends since we met the summer we were 10. We approached this as creating a new family and it has been and will continue to be an interesting adventure. I'll do updates from time to time. For now here is where things are. <br />
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Utility room sink "just the right size" <br />
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We did take off a day during spring break to take Karlie to Sea World. She loved it. <br />
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Our first family gathering was Sunday to celebrate Easter. We'll do a repeat for Karl's birthday on Sat. I'm excited that Ashley & Frank are coming to visit. After that my goal is to get back to some art making. Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-11495770233941869272012-12-23T20:43:00.001-06:002012-12-23T20:43:30.270-06:00CommunityLike most everyone in the world I have felt a rollercoaster of sadness, stress & confussion this last week. The world mourns the senseless killings of 20 young children & 6 adults at their school in Connecticut on Dec. 14th. "This is NOT supposed to happen" & "We deserve better" I have heard people say. Still I wonder can we really change things to reduce the liklihood of this happening again. I pray that we can & I am committed to working toward that end. <br />
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I was sewing at midday on Friday when the tv came on of it's own accord & the horror hit me. I had to take it in in small bits. One of the themes I kept hearing was "community", small town USA. <br />
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The work I was finishing was a group of small quilts for MY community, 7 wonderful women artist friends in north Texas. Before I left that area in June this group feted me with a fabulous birthday/going away party. Knowing my propensity to work with small bits they presented me with tokens of their friendship and support in the forms of bits & pieces for creating art & boxes for storage. I was overwhelmed. It took me until Dec. to create tokens of my gratitude. <br />
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As I sewed these pieces and then cut them apart into seperate unites I feel the connections that scissors can't cut. <br />
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Monday I traveled north to attend the Christmas DAFA meeting, potluck & auction & stay with Lu. I won a few goodies but the best was yet to come when the WONDERS gathered on Tues. for lunch and our annual gawking trip to the downtown Dallas Niemans store. I'm more of a country chic girl but it's always fun to check out the fashions & Flo entertained us with her pose in VERY high heels. It was a great 2 days. <br />
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I came back with a super bad cough and it's no fun. I hope no one else gets it. I'm doctoring up for Christmas and then we travel back north to pick up our cabinets, counters, & doors. We'll also extend our celebration with Ashley & Frank. I wish everyone a beautiful & blessed Christmas and an abundantly creative New Year. I'll be back here in 2013. Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-34395279590076615582012-12-09T20:42:00.002-06:002012-12-09T21:06:22.907-06:00Thankfulness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The weatherman says that it's about to get cooler. It's been near 80 the last few weeks and doesn't feel at all like "Christmas is coming". Last night Karl & I walked around the Winter's Eve event in Wimberley & he wasn't the only guy in shorts. </div>
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I'm slower than usual getting into the Christmas spirit as there's not much room in the rv to decorate & that's if I could find stuff from storage. Today I decided to check out the lights I saw the other day in tool shed. If they work I'll string up a few. We saw Karlie today and some of her excitement rubbed off. </div>
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Before jumping to Christmas I wanted to share the Thanksgiving weekend adventure & what fall can look like in Texas. This is a very special place near Utopia (yes, a real Texas town). Our friend April lives and works out here and we are privileged to get to visit. This area never fails to nourish my heart & soul & inpires me beyond measure. </div>
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Thanks to April for sharing her world. She is the kind of friend I would wish for everyone to have. <br />
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Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-60910976558648541882012-12-02T22:16:00.001-06:002012-12-02T22:59:13.697-06:00Change, Constant Change.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
December already, the beginning of the holiday season and almost the end of 2012. Turn, turn, turn; nothing is more constant than change so we have to remember to find joy in the moment. November was a whirlwind and not just swirling leaves. On the 3rd I got a break from construction duties to play with Jo, visiting from Dallas. We spent a lovely afternoon at Old Oaks Ranch, <a href="http://www.theoldoaksranch.com/">www.theoldoaksranch.com</a>, in Wimberley, an alpaca ranch, sculpture garden, and yarn store. Jo really enjoyed that last part; I enjoyed the day with a friend. </div>
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Along with changing leaves, I found time between house building assignments to change fabric with rust & vinegar. This is something I can set up fairly quickly. I want to do more patterns (sheets of steel "waste" from manufacturing). I look forward in using it in quilts in the future. <br />
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My favorite change is watching Karlie grow. She has gotten really interested in sewing and I hope I can feed her curiosity & creativity for a long time to come. She & Mom & Dad are moving into a new house soon so I'm looking forward to helping her decorate her room & yard. <br />
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In the meantime we've got walls & insulation & the porch roof. Sheetrock starts tomorrow. <br />
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See those white spots on the cactus. At first we thought it was disease but research said it's Cochineal bugs. Ah ha - Another "between house projects" project. I'm collecting them and hope to use them to dye soon. More change to come.....<br />
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Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-29677541741424565732012-11-01T21:59:00.005-05:002012-11-01T21:59:58.128-05:00Moving forward Sorry I have been absent for too long. There were some health issues, a general funk, camera issues, and going in circles when I was moving. <br />
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I even forgot to celebrate my 4th "blogaversary" (October 5, 2008) but did just look back to remind myself of where I've been & where things are going. I keep repeating to myself "of mice & men" refering to the idea that plans are made to be changed. The house project is moving slowly. The porch should be done by next week & I promise to post when things look different enought to celebrate. <br />
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Part of me is wishing I was in Houston but it just didn't work this year. During all the general crazies of Oct. I did have a great few days in Dallas/Ft Worth. I got in too-short visits with friends and Ashley & I had a great time seeing & being inspired by the Dale Chihuly exhibit at the Dallas Arboretum. It is beautiful and if you're in north Texas before the end of the year, check it out. <br />
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. Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-37273018263540953872012-09-18T23:10:00.001-05:002012-09-18T23:10:54.487-05:00ChangesTo me September is as much New year as January. It's all those years of going to school; teaching school; and working with teachers I guess. Now that we are not tied to that schedule I love to get away in Sept. It didn't look like it was going to happen due to the house project but then we were blessed to have a the very generous sister & bil of a very special friend offer us their cabin in northern Colorado. Off we went and last week was a wonderful way to welcome fall and rest a bit for the changes to come on the house. <br />
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Change #1 was certainly the cabin. It provided a bit more moving around space than the rv which I really enjoyed, even baking banana nut bread one day. We walked a good bit and enjoyed the varied views of meadows and mountains in the neighborhood and then drove various routes around Grand Lake & across Trailridge, the highway across Rocky Mountain National Park, to Estes Park. I "highly" recommend this as a vacation destination. <br />
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The wildlife was a big entertainment except for my mistake of putting garbage out early and the bears getting into it (we didn't see them but the neighbor saw the signs). We did see moose, elk, deer, fox, eagles, hawks, mermots, and chipmunks. These creatures provideda good bit of our entertainment. <br />
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Change #2 was the weather. It was 104 here the week before and Karl was exhausted from working in the heat. I spent most of that week inside recovering from respiratory gunk which, sadly, Karl now has. I loved being outside last week. The high temps were 60's & 70's and lows in the 20's & 30's. We even got to see snow on the mountains the last day and it has cooled off in Texas a bit too. I'm inspired to get out more here now. <br />
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A beautiful sunset and rainbow welcomed us back to Texas on Sunday and we got home yesterday. Karl jumped right into work on the house while I waited for the internet installer and got settled in to rv living again. I hope whatever changes come your way are good ones and you enjoy a lovely fall. <br />
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<br />Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-47179993756893222222012-09-02T22:57:00.001-05:002012-09-02T23:06:53.458-05:00Georgia on My MInd<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've been under the weather with bronchitis this week but before the memories fade I want to share my recent adventure. I'd been feeling the need to get away from the Texas heat and a general sense of unrest. New Mexico is always a favorite destination for me. </div>
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I suggested a trip to Kathy and she jumped onboard my idea. We have been friends since we were 10 and given her health scare last year we decided to fly away for a fun time of laughing, learning, eating, shopping, sighing at the beauty all around and luxurating in the hot springs of Ojo Caliente. That last was the highlight/new discovery for me and a definite "return to" spot for future trips. </div>
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Our first destination after we got our car at the airport was Madrid but we spotted this great fence even before there. I want to do something like this at the new house. The neighborhood is picky about structures (including fences) so I'll do it as a screen and call it ART. I'll welcome all help in collecting the bottles. </div>
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This path outside a shop in Madrid made me smile as it reminded me to be open to the surprises of life. Kathy is an amazingly friendly lady so we met other friendly people with recommendations for great food, new vistas & adventures, and much more. </div>
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We started day 2 at Georgia O'Keeffe's house (no pictures allowed) in Abuquiu and then drove up to Ghost Ranch. Seeing the places Georgia loved was wonderful insight into her & her art. She was an Amazing woman. </div>
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In the afternoon we luxuriated at Ojo Caliente. I'd been wanting to go there for years and it's definitely on my return visit list. Wonderfully relaxing & healing & Very reasonable at $18.00 a day. There is a little B&B within walking distance where we want to book for next year. </div>
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I love doors & gates. They keep you out and let you in and make you wonder what comes next. </div>
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I hope what comes into each of our lives is beauty, love, friendship and humility to always marvel at our many blessings. </div>
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Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-35457518467343164592012-08-04T15:34:00.002-05:002012-08-04T15:36:22.442-05:00The Long WayThis was one of "THOSE" weeks. It wasn't any one person, thing, or event that caused distress and was really more inside than out. Not sleeping well & crazy dreams added to it. There was PANIC & "What the Hell have I done" moments. Do you ever have those?<br />
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Thankfully, this morning I had some quiet time to regroup and take some deep breaths. Life is better. Company will be here shortly. I went to the local store (more expensive) rather than make the 16 mile drive to HEB saving time if not money. I picked up a movie (comedy) for this evening and then took a "wrong turn". This was the view when I turned around. <br />
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If it looks like the road "falls off" it really does (22% grade it said). I thought it was a good image for my life. I thought of 2 songs, "Taking the Long Way" by the Dixie Chicks and "Taking the Long Way Home" by Steven Curtis Chapman". We do NOT know what even tomorrow holds so be sure to enjoy the scenery today & be with people you care about. Wishing you love.Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-71844238039587733842012-07-31T22:17:00.001-05:002012-07-31T22:47:09.545-05:00What I Know for Sure.....it's SUMMER in Texas and that means HOT. The rains that we had earlier in July are a faint memory and the grass is turning brown and everything else is wilting. It's not as bad as last year & I will hope for an early & cool fall. There are a few brave blooms that make me smile. The first one I spied in Austin and is new to me. The plant looks a bit like a lily. Would love to know what it is and if deer would leave it alone. <br />
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I KNOW Progress is slow but is being made on the house. The picture below isn't very exciting but this is where we are today. Those piles of rock on the left will go inside the forms, hopefully tomorrow. The house will set farther back from the BIG trees than I'd hoped due to the slope from the front left corner to the back right. The porch will be 10' instead of 12' and wood rather than concrete to hopefully save trees on the front left. I KNOW trees are important. </div>
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I KNOW I am missing art, making it, seeing it, talking about it. This transition is harder than I'd expected. This small piece for the Studio group challenge is all I've accomplished in the last few weeks along with some fabric beads. Doesn't feel like much. </div>
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I know it feels strange to me not to have anyone left in the generation before me. Does that make me a "Matriarch"? I don't feel like one. We said goodbye Friday to my last aunt. Aunt Nathalee was my father's sister and they were very much alike: frugal, lively, inventive, hard headed, fun loving, & generous. She was the Queen of garage sales and recycled before it was cool. She was quite a style maven into her 90's and I have no doubt that had she lived in New York she would have made it to <a href="http://advancedstyle.blogspot.com/">Advanced Style.</a> I am proud that some time my "Ashley-ness" shows & I smile to see the attitude carried forward with Karlie. </div>
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<br /> </div>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-37955516064429334932012-07-15T23:34:00.001-05:002012-07-15T23:34:27.538-05:00Mixed WeekOur work on the property has slowed a bit of late due to rain and an issue with our HOA which is now hopefully behind us. We can NOT complain about the rain after last year & I feel for folks in the midwest who are suffering with draught this year. The lakes in Central Texas are still very low and every bit helps. The whole area got a good soaking last night and again this evening with more forecasted for tomorrow. I do hope it clears some Ashley & Frank's visit next weekend. <br />
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We had a family get together while one niece and her family were here from Brazil. Karlie got to meet her youngest cousin, Mary Louise, and they hit it off very well. Today we saw other cousins from Houston. The area we've moved to is a popular vacation destination so I imagine we'll see family & friends from all around. <br />
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On Wed. Karl needed to go to Comfort for water filter parts & advise. I tagged along and while he talked with the water guy I found a lovely nursery with friendly & knowledgeable staff. What landscaping we do must be draught tolerant & deer resistent. This is a new to me plant. It's a low running version of Vitex, some time called Texas Lilac or Lavender that gets great clusters of purple blooms. </div>
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The hummingbirds love just about any thing with red flowers so I'll have to get some of this. </div>
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There were more butterflies on this aster than I'd ever seen on one plant. Add it to the list. I didn't get pictures of all the agave but those are a must have. </div>
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From Comfort we headed toward Fredericksburg with a stop at Marburger Orchard. Karl went to HS with Gary in Houston and saw on Facebook that he had been in the hill country for 30 years. He has a beautiful spot and great produce. We got peaches that were at the stand and picked a few blackberries. Next year we'll go earlier in the season & earlier in the morning (both for cooler temps). <br />
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One of the highlights of the week was setting up my "studio". I even repaired a shirt and sewed one small piece for a challenge. Maybe with the rain, I'll get more sewing time this week. Once the house actually gets started and we're on the property I hope to get into a routine that includes art making. <br />
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<br /></div>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-19275081372442321522012-07-04T19:17:00.000-05:002012-07-04T19:17:53.419-05:00Happy July 4th....Indepence Day. Are you celebrating? Are you thinking about it as a birthday of our country or just a day to relax by the pool and cook bar-b-que? This isn't much art related but it is where my head is today.<br />
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Tomorrow will mark the one month anniversary of our "independence" from home ownership. We are lucky as we have had a choice in the matter. ItWe had 25 years in one house and 13 in another before that (and a few years of rent in between). We have been blessed with security and while we worked hard, so do many others who haven't been so lucky. And then there's the whole topic of health care. As "they" have said this week, "the battle isn't over". It's a worry I have for my children and grandchild. How will they get ahead? How will they reach their dreams? Will they have to leave the country to reach "the American Dream"? <br />
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RV living is interesting & we've adjusted pretty well, mostly because we're gone working on the property every day & out of the small space. I'm doing laundry at the laundromatt for the first time in years & years. I will say the one in Wimberley is WAY nicer than those from earlier days. In the afternoon there's an interesting cross section of the community minus the "elite". <br />
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If you've been around to hear my rants or seen my facebook postings lately it's pretty clear where I stand. I've had some deep feelings of despair regarding the state of governance & policy in the good old USA for a while now. I want to be hopeful and optimistic but some days it's hard. My faith in people to think and act with intelligence, integrity & honor has grown slim. It's not just about the economy but on many issues that I feel we're headed in a wrong direction. I've reached an age where I don't mind being pretty "in your face" about it all. <a href="http://margaretandhelen.com/">Helen</a> is one of my heroines & I still miss Molly Ivins & I'm hoping more of us will stand up & fight for what is right. <br />
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This is the face of Optimism I saw today. This is the face that gives me hope and makes me work for a better future for her and all our children and grandchildren. She learned pretty quickly that 2 waves got more candy and beads. Maybe the lesson for us is to make more noise & get more attention. I HOPE so. <br />
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<br /></div>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-28178923678755492962012-06-27T23:20:00.002-05:002012-06-27T23:20:23.715-05:00Balancing Act<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kOu1g02Z3GTNUAJ7ivk092aR7GdXh1vUKwPl0y4qk7D8OCaaOUEy80sJ74IQFfcjernQLG3B8cOmKLbVZYW_j0pE73XLYtP5Tk26QIYs3UBgaQ-5NJBVIrVu77J4pYTgr2v1yIWbl5Br/s1600/Wonders+&+Karlie+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0kOu1g02Z3GTNUAJ7ivk092aR7GdXh1vUKwPl0y4qk7D8OCaaOUEy80sJ74IQFfcjernQLG3B8cOmKLbVZYW_j0pE73XLYtP5Tk26QIYs3UBgaQ-5NJBVIrVu77J4pYTgr2v1yIWbl5Br/s640/Wonders+&+Karlie+053.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Today was a crazy mix of hits & misses but we balanced it out with a bit of fun time with our favorite ballerina. Tomorrow it's back to work. Hope everyone is staying cool. Praying for the fire victims in Colorado.Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-76451988556626570042012-06-20T23:34:00.001-05:002012-06-20T23:34:46.907-05:00What's On My Mind......<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXrMNb35or3cv-2TvNFIvaJaGuIJw7Uy2Td-CnqQyZj2fc2JbuOOUTAgcEPgWvpch5SXyyBSIgeWmk_xSLJhbqS2J5-aE0dSXyl6CILPhTnEzKVKBeYX1dlW4utflX-flz1KaMS02CnKD/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXrMNb35or3cv-2TvNFIvaJaGuIJw7Uy2Td-CnqQyZj2fc2JbuOOUTAgcEPgWvpch5SXyyBSIgeWmk_xSLJhbqS2J5-aE0dSXyl6CILPhTnEzKVKBeYX1dlW4utflX-flz1KaMS02CnKD/s320/009.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From this.....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDTNgL6-MkVBChVq8xX3c9ABXM-SntzAYJ5JpD5QNMTy5iBcYYEhWqTl9JjfaArs77bijoT12hAu7YxQh9IXPYZsMGlqLT5ao6Ub5vZ8AnHv9ra3bxt6T5ZQP1J6kRecaDzufYoR7WoDl/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDTNgL6-MkVBChVq8xX3c9ABXM-SntzAYJ5JpD5QNMTy5iBcYYEhWqTl9JjfaArs77bijoT12hAu7YxQh9IXPYZsMGlqLT5ao6Ub5vZ8AnHv9ra3bxt6T5ZQP1J6kRecaDzufYoR7WoDl/s320/010.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To this.... a place for a swing to enjoy the view</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild Persimmons - planning ahead for jam & treats in the fall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocks moved along the drive. Thank goodness for the tractor!</td></tr>
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Aging. Getting Old & deciding to do it the best way possible. The last time we built a house we were 25 years younger and a whole lot fitter. This will be one of those "what doesn't kill you....." experiences. We've been working really hard but it feels good. Today we had some time off due to rain. </div>
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After some "getting settled" errands we went to visit my 93 year old aunt this afternoon. She has always been the most like my Dad so I always loved her a bit extra. Now she's the only one of 4 siblings left and she is fighting with all her might not to move to assisted living. Her memory is going but she knows what is inevitable. I feel for her and her daughter who is making decisions for what is best. You can know what is right and good but it's still NOT easy. Most of us want to make our own decisions for as long as possible & I hope we have lots of time to be strong & independent and maybe a bit contrary. <br />
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As this subject has been on my mind lately, I am reading Jane Fonda's newest book. She calls the years from 60 on "Act III". It has some good advise and I'm working on being more intentional every day to deal with the hand I've been given. On a lighter note, I got Karl to go with me on Sat. to see "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel". It is cute with some funny bits & I think Judith Dench can make any thing look pretty darn good. The message is Clear I think. Don't wait; act now; and seize life with both arms. Keep on keeping on I hope to do it well. <br />
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A friend said this morning that the Summer Solstice is about throwing out what no longer serves us (ideas, hinderances, pain) and starting with the new (hopes, intentions, creations). Today's pictures are about what we're creating for our new future. <br />
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<br />Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-59223494408400572192012-06-09T23:26:00.000-05:002012-06-09T23:43:19.147-05:00A New Chapter Begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's been a month since I've blogged; I apologize if you wondered where I'd disappeared to. I was probably on the road or buried in boxes as we packed and shuttled the last of our belongings from Argyle to Wimberley. </div>
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I think I counted 6 trips back & forth last month, in the neighborhood of 54 hours in the truck plus the last drive following the truck & trailer in the car. Maybe we should have moved more often and gotten rid of more "stuff". </div>
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We closed & vacated Monday and stayed the night with Ashley & Frank. They made a delicious berry cobbler. I'm not sure if it was celebratory or not. Ashley & I are both having sad about the new distance between us. <a href="http://ashleyakers.blogspot.com/">She</a> wrote a moving post the other day about her feelings on our move. We closed Tues. morning; saw friends for lunch and then drove south in the afternoon. We're in the rv at a park near the Guadalupe river at Sattler. It's about 10 miles from the property. I look forward to floating the river some weekday when it's not so crowded. </div>
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In the meantime there's still sorting to do between the warehouse & here; getting house drawings finished and to the draftsman; and clearing on the property to site the house. Karl got in some quality but very HOT tracktor time in today. It's going to be a big job for him in the heat. Some time soon we will figure out how to set up my sewing machine in the rv. In the meantime I am doing some hand stitching & have found it to be a balm for my nerves as there were numerous snafus this week. </div>
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Last month in the DAFA annual show I won the prize for Best Use of Beads with this piece, Small Delites. The prize is a gift card to <a href="http://www.artfulbead.com/">Artful Bead</a> which I misplaced during packing but luckily found. I will use it when I visit up north later in the month. <br />
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Lu Peters & I also won Best Art Quilt with our 3rd collabroative piece, Roots & Routes. The prize was a gift card at <a href="http://quiltcountry.com/">Quilt Country</a> and we used it for fabric & supplies for #'s 4 & 5 which are in the early stages. It's great that these businesses support local fiber arts & I certainly appreciate their generousity. <br />
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At our May gathering the Wonders gifted me with treasures, trinkets, tokens, and bits to use during my "confinement" in the rv in work similar to Delites. I am honored by their generousity and plan to rise to meet their expectations. I am inspired by <a href="http://www.gericondesigns.com/weblog/">Gerrie Congdon's</a> 3" a day pieces; I doubt I'll be that disciplined but will shoot for regular productivity. <br />
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Aside from friends & family (including 4 legged variety) I will miss my garden. The Daylillies were a gift from a Houston friend in 1987. I've shared them with many over the years and they remind me of steadfastness & make me smile at their simplicity. The new owner said I can come back in the winter to get bulbs. The Agave I saw on the road today. I had to stop and take a pic as it made me think of reaching for new goals.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHDxTIguAOMPvUvmE4EJcH7_PYOAOueBpt4pv1br5JVwwfXVov0k18MS7J3PXADItKArIT80TUFQ8csuQgHVRYEHVhSqLlaZjCvk39gNUzKfExOi__oA4NEcbH79O7IP5hTdUx3-u6llk/s1600/Day+Lilly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHDxTIguAOMPvUvmE4EJcH7_PYOAOueBpt4pv1br5JVwwfXVov0k18MS7J3PXADItKArIT80TUFQ8csuQgHVRYEHVhSqLlaZjCvk39gNUzKfExOi__oA4NEcbH79O7IP5hTdUx3-u6llk/s400/Day+Lilly.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFsWRo3jouN7E1L30pllRcjhHMK5KW55FpC8jCoDj8vLV4EOG9lzR2U4L4OyD6ZEJVNu6_XIpsYoUDMS76bPnBh1CY9rDd1wP3PRYqo0yJUa2qDFCmNmobq0V9GtqsLhBnSc503is0IRf/s1600/Agave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFsWRo3jouN7E1L30pllRcjhHMK5KW55FpC8jCoDj8vLV4EOG9lzR2U4L4OyD6ZEJVNu6_XIpsYoUDMS76bPnBh1CY9rDd1wP3PRYqo0yJUa2qDFCmNmobq0V9GtqsLhBnSc503is0IRf/s400/Agave.jpg" width="300" /></a>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-81144181226442999972012-05-09T21:49:00.003-05:002012-05-09T21:49:54.502-05:00Thanks for the Memories<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I've been packing lots of little things have triggered memories large & small. I am so very thankful for the many recollections of family & friends gathering here over the years. I hope the new</div>
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Checking through files today I came across these small quilts that I did for the Alzheimer's Priority Art Quilt Project. Dallas Area Fiber Artists did this as our annual service project and it was so well received that it will be repeated yearly. I hope my small contribution helps this worthy project. If you are interested in helping check out </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9-VLA9JXDWZEKPxaHHkDhoow1-zkTCEuCnjanpYsCEWzEpjZ2fnIvq57ru6-y9FQ64pZi58hMATMk-Rn6KyDwGoRTgWPIgHUfu7kS1x1N4RcaqreRm7617N4BdJ-4Y_zqqlptJMerqV-/s1600/Alzheimer's+Quilts+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb9-VLA9JXDWZEKPxaHHkDhoow1-zkTCEuCnjanpYsCEWzEpjZ2fnIvq57ru6-y9FQ64pZi58hMATMk-Rn6KyDwGoRTgWPIgHUfu7kS1x1N4RcaqreRm7617N4BdJ-4Y_zqqlptJMerqV-/s640/Alzheimer's+Quilts+005.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-25922572277310655152012-05-05T15:45:00.000-05:002012-05-05T15:45:37.740-05:00Small Stuff<div style="text-align: center;">
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This is the corner of our driveway marked when it was poured in the fall of 1986 as we were building this house. We moved in on Friday, March 13, 1987. Sorry it's upside down but after several tries I'm giving up on getting it right and "going with the flow". "Go with the flo" is the best advise I can come up for myself right now. I'm thinking "normal" won't be part of my vocabulary for a while to come. </div>
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I haven't posted in a while because I've been holding my breath and afraid to say "it" outloud. We SOLD the house in Argyle! The contengency on the contract ended yesterday so if all goes on schedule we'll be moving into the rv by the end of the month. Where it will be parked for a while is still in question. Once we get started on the new place it will be on the property. I'll give updates as the new place comes along. </div>
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We've been here 25 years so this is a very big step. Yes, we started packing last year when we listed the house but there is still lots to go through & the small stuff seems to take a disproportionate amount of time. "Up to my eye in alligators" as my mother would say - piles of office, library, sewing "stuff" all around the room as I write this. How do 2 (or even 4) people accumulate so many pencils, pens, papers and misc. minusma. What do you do with it all if you're adverse to throw it away? If there's something you want ask now or we might not find it for a while. </div>
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<a href="http://ashleyakers.blogspot.com/">Ashley</a> wrote a blog post the other day about my pottery which made me realize I'd rather see it being used in her home than packed away. I've got other dishes and this is a reminder to make way for new things. As a sentimentalist, I'm going very slowly at processing my way through the last little bits of my life in this house. A friend posted this video on facebook earlier today. It made me cry a bit as I realized what a major part of my life's journey has been lived here. It also reminded me to take a deep breath and enjoy the view as the journey continues. </div>
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Hope you take time to smell the roses and don't forget to enjoy the BIG moon tonight. </div>
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<br /></div>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-9194747215229216662012-04-03T22:19:00.002-05:002012-04-03T23:59:41.476-05:00Hill Country Wonder Filled Weekend<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For most everyone there is some place that holds a very special spot in the heart. For me that place is the Hill Country of Texas. This geographic area is roughly west of I 35 between Austin & San Antonio and extends westward until it reaches the arid desert of far west Texas. It is marked with numerous clear running spring fed rivers & creeks (in a good year) and green covered rolling hills and rocky canyons. </div>
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I've loved this area since childhood when I camped there with my family & always said I was supposed to live there some day. That is still my hope if we can sell our house in Argyle. The land we've purchased in Wimberley is at the eastern edge of the region; in fact the Hill Country officially starts at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos. </div>
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This past weekend we had a wonder filled weekend in the Sabinal Canyon near Utopia. Our dear friend April, who introduced Ashley to horses years ago, is horse manager at Camp Lonehollow. The camp is an absolutely magical place. We had a wonderful time relaxing, exploring, introducing Karlie to horses, and enjoying the flowers &amp river, & beautiful weather. Thank you April for adding to our wonderful Hill Country memories. I think we have another cowgirl in the making.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vBqp4DnF13cdRbGQdygcRmx9VmJqIRznXHcd2rq1cYlFgNtX-CAl-V9c0sK4POU0KgdSZ9bELb8Po5oxbjnM0iv2mgwH-zVkVQcT1nrCexB6mNdfd19CopFria3OOxSSAoMgAnDs-1EE/s1600/boots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vBqp4DnF13cdRbGQdygcRmx9VmJqIRznXHcd2rq1cYlFgNtX-CAl-V9c0sK4POU0KgdSZ9bELb8Po5oxbjnM0iv2mgwH-zVkVQcT1nrCexB6mNdfd19CopFria3OOxSSAoMgAnDs-1EE/s640/boots.jpg" width="480" /></a>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-25962099894649202542012-03-22T22:00:00.001-05:002012-03-22T22:14:32.347-05:00Welcome to Springtime in TexasMy new definition for Crazy is "South by Southwest" in Austin. I can't completely explain what it is because I'm not sure I totally understand it. Basically about 200,000 people come to town for movies, interactive seminars; music in every imaginable venue; and partying for 10 days in the spring. <br />
Today as I was telling a friend about our last few weeks I realized that it had been unusually crazy even for us. I've about recovered and even spent a day switching out seasonal clothes so I'm ready to be in the studio. That won't really happen until after another trip to the Hill Country on the 29th but I did get a baby blanket edge stitched today and hope to get back to the machine tomorrow. <br />
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I can say that we accomplished a fair amount in all the frenzy. K&E finished the barbque trailer and got it to Austin & inspected to serve food at South by Southwest. K helped E, C, K move from Midland to Austin where I joined them to help with unpacking and decorating (practice for when it's my turn?). I got Karlie to and from school for the week and was happy to see her settle in with kind caregivers. K&I did multiple food shopping trips & I even did a couple of stints serving, reinforcing my suspition that food service is HARD work. Sunday we took Karlie for the Texas tradition of pictures in the Blue Bonnets. We came home Monday to 4" of rain. Every thing is turning green &amp starting to bloom. <br />
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<br />I do love Springtime in Texas. Hope the weather is good where you are.Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-33263807634795483472012-03-10T22:36:00.000-06:002012-03-10T22:36:04.242-06:00Memories of Mother<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday I helped my friend, <a href="http://www.suzannemorgan.com/">Suzanne Morgan</a>, in her booth at the Dallas Quilt Show. It was fun to be among the beautiful creations of so many talented artists & artisans. I enjoyed demonstrating needle felting with Suzanne's great hand dyed wools & silks. She has some new patterns that she is selling so I made a few flowers and the purse as samples for her. As I was making these I thought about my mother. I could imagine her liking these; I could even be making her a birthday gift and then she'd want to learn how to do it too except she's been gone 12 years.</div>
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Martha Kate McCrory Ashley was a city girl through & through. She was born in Houston in the house I later lived in from age 2-10. She was so anxious to leave that house for a newer, bigger one that it took me years to realize it's charms. It came to inhabit my dreams and inform my love of old and slightly battered spaces but for Mother it held sadness. When we left there it was "a bad part of town". I went back a few years ago as it's only blocks from the convention center where the International Quilt Show is held and the area is changing due to it's close proximity to downtown. Mother probably would still have wanted to be gone from there.<br />
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I have come to understand how events from our early lives stay with us always. To Mother that house represented loss. Her father had lost his business during the depression. He was gone before I was born but I got the impression he wasn't a very nice man to my Grandmother or his children after that.<br />
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My early memories there were happy and often included aunts & uncles & cousins. That changed when Mother's sister died at 32 when I was 5. After that I remember sensing Mother & Grandmother being sad under the surface even when they were smiling.<br />
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Mother loved flowers but if she'd been able to afford to buy them I doubt she would have spent much time outside. That was my Grandmother's and then Dad's domain. I think of Mother's place as being at the sewing machine or with some kind of needle in her hand. She LOVED to sew. She worked for an insurance company most of my growing up years so Grandmother took care of cooking & laundry as long as she was able. Later when Mother took over the kitchen, she was very good at it, She relished her reputation as an excellent cook and enjoyed feeding family & friends. Still for me the fondest memory is of her sewing. I feel blessed that she passed that passion on to me & hope that what I stitch with my hands brings her honor and smiles.<br />
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Emily Lynn Hammitt was born Thurs. on Dad's birthday and I think of you 2 smiling down on her. Love you Mom. Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-63722100575140574942012-03-08T16:24:00.003-06:002012-03-08T22:01:35.826-06:00Mish Mash & MemoryYesterday Ashley woke me with a text wishing the old family pictures weren't all packed away as she wanted to do a collection of camping pictures. Later she sent me a blog picture with a Blue Mist by Dansk plate; these are the same dishes I've had for 44 years. Ashley said they reminded her of her childhood. I hope she has good memories of happy family meals. <br />
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Memories are wonderous & mysterious things. A cousin called last week to tell me her brother had a stroke and while he is recoving speech and motor skills he has no memory of his parents and wife being gone for over 10 years. Like Alzheimers, that seems so sad for both of them as she tells him of the losses of loved ones over and over again.<br />
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I believe memories are important parts of who we are. For me memories are often the basis of my art work even when the image is abstract. That I can't remember a time when I didn't sew and the feelings of accomplishement from some of my early projects informs my sense of self. <br />
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This picture is from a quilt I did in 2009 to pair with a poem about an empty chair in Galveston. I grew up on the gulf coast and have wonderful memories of the beach. This picture reminds me of the adventure of learning to fish with Dad and the feelings we had celebrating one of his favorite pasttimes. <br />
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Dad would have been 97 today. He's been gone 4 years and I still miss him very much. Dad could have been the poster image for "Child of the Great Depression". His father had left when he was young and his mother raised 4 children. That hardship made him the "strong silent type". He wasnt' particularly expressive of emotions except anger until he became a grandfather. I remember him holidng Ashley the day she was born. I do thing being "Pawpaw" was his highest calling. <br />
He taught us to love the outdoors, camping & fishing and had a respect for nature before we called it enviromentalism. I never shared his affection for east Texas (to me it felt closed it; to him it represented safety I think) I understood his need to visit and enjoyed trips with him over many back roads. In his last days he still expressed longing for the "Piney Woods". He honed his story telling skills with the grandkids and they loved him for that and other generosities. I hope they will always remember his pride in his CCC service and the help he could give his mother and younger sisters during hard times. While he was never really suited to city life, but lived in Houston because it was Mother's home and where the work was, he donned a coat & tie most working days for 40 years as a department manager for Sears. This was back when the companes cared about employees and he was proud of his company and his service to it. I couldn't bring myself to tell him how they had cheated him and others when they "sold" to Kmart so that will be my memory to keep. <br />
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The second time the phone rang this morning it was my nephew. He was calling from the hospital to tell me their baby girl is coming today. Happy Birthday Pawpaw.Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-1823122971423925052012-03-05T22:11:00.001-06:002012-03-05T22:13:22.824-06:00Promises of Things to Come<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sorry I've been away so long; once again it's been a busy month of family projects. The guys got the bbq trailer finished and off to Austin. Karlie & her Mom & Dad will be in their apt. there Wed. evening. Karl is down helping and moving his bbq trailer from Wimberley to Austin to serve as backup for the anticipated rush of South by Southwest. I stayed here to do some catch up. I loved having Karlie her; it really was an amazing time of love & laughter. She is such a blessing & I hope she had as much fun as I did.<br />
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Still there were projects and commitments that did not get done. On top of that I was gone 5 days at the end of Feb. for an upcoming project & to attend the Texas Fiber Federation conference. I will write about that & post pictures of my resist experiments from the Lisa Kerpoe workshop soon. <br />
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Yesterday & today I've worked long hours outside and enjoyed our glorious weather. We didn't have much of a winter in terms of snow & ice but there was still the seasonal die off that makes us appreciate spring. It seems to me that it;s come extra early to North Texas. I'm hoping we don't get a late freeze that kills off new growth. I'm trying to stay in the now and not be nervous about summer but admit to fear of another scorcher like last year. While I'm enjoying the clear blue skies I'm also thinking of those who suffered in the last few days of storms and tornadoes in the midwest. I'm reminded of the power of nature to cause great joy and great sorrow. I pray for those who have lost so much. <br />
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My work outside is to overcome the period of neglect & add some new color in baskets and pots. The house is going back on the market and the realtor wants to do new pictures. I'll try to get some too. Whatever your weather I hope you're having a chance to create in some way and don't forget to be grateful for blue skies when they come your way.Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-59706671087915567132012-02-11T15:45:00.000-06:002012-02-16T00:27:31.929-06:00It's All in the Attitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Most of my days so far in 2012 have been spent with Karlie. I am inspired by her inquisitiveness, innocence, imagination, sense of wonder & pure love of life. I would wish that everyone had a Karlie in their life and I hope I can keep these feelings & attitudes alive & well. </div>
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Yesterday I received a letter from the husband of one of my "Top 5 Life Influencers". Diane was a mentor, inspiration, and heroine to me some 35 years ago. Sadly we lost touch about 10 years ago. Now I find that she is suffering with Alzheimer's. Dallas Area Fiber Artists is making small quilts for the Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative. The last are due on Feb. 27th to be shown at the Dallas Quilt Show. I have made several in honor of my parents & now I need to get busy and make one in honor of Diane. </div>
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When the Studio Group got together in Jan. we explored various printmaking techniques. I mostly played with monoprinting. Others tried silkscreening, relief and multi-layered techniques; here is Michelle stenciling. Carolyn came up with a great way to add background color to a stenciled design; she used Dynaflo on the back side of the fabric. </div>
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Getting together with this group is always a highlight of my month. This month we'll go to Denton to see "<a href="http://www.dentonarts.com/subsite2/materialshands.html">Materials Hard & Soft</a>" and do a bit of "junking" at a new shop in town. I will report back on MHS; it is always an interesting show. </div>
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January was one of the warmest on record for most of the country. I took advantage of the sunshine to do some rust "dyeing". Karl & Elliott are building a bar-b-que trailer for the Austin food trailer market and a side advantage is new rustings stuff. I love the metal X grate and am going to do some more with some long cut pieces I spied yesterday. </div>
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Happy Creating and may your hearts be filled with Love </div>Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-1276948682575349822012-01-17T17:31:00.002-06:002012-01-17T17:45:26.805-06:00Swimming Upstream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you ever have times when you KNOW you need to give up swimming against the current and "go with the flow"? I'm still learning the limits of my time and energy. For the first 2 weeks of January Karlie was with us. Daddy & Poppy are building a bar-b-que trailer that needs to be ready to put in service in Feb. so keeping up with Ms. K fell mostly to Bebe (the name Karlie gave me and I LOVE). <br />
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Lesson learned: serious art making time is limited with a 2 1/2 year old but there is FUN to be had. It is amazing to watch an active & inquisitve 2 1/2 year old take such delight in the world around her. Every day was an adventure with new things to learn, absorb & conquer. This included dancing, riding her new Strider bike, pretending, laughing, reading & cuddling. <br />
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On one of the prettiest days (it seemed more like April than Jan.) we met Ashley and visited the Japanese Garden in Ft. Worth. Karlie most loved feeding the fish. The fish are beautiful but one of my favorties sites was a hawk. This one had obviously figured out where to get a good meal. We saw him swoop down a couple of times and fly low past visitors. Exciting.<br />
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Karlie is in Midland this week with Mommy so I'm playing a bit of catchup. Yesterday was errands, haircut, groceries, general shopping and a more involved dinner of sesame chicken and grilled veggies. Today the new dishwasher was installed early and I've done multiple loads of laundry & prepping fabric for dye. I did a bit of baking (Biscotti for tomorrow & chocolate chip cookies for the guys) and gathered my supplies. <br />
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This afternoon I finished my first art of the year, a postcard for <a href="http://www.artquiltelements.com/">Art Quilt Elements</a>. They offered a catalog of this year's show for a fiber postcard donated for their fund raising; I am glad to participate and hope there's more sewing this week & next. <br />
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Tomorrow the Wonders are doing printmaking and I hope to have good things to show.Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-14538284876469839522011-12-27T23:43:00.003-06:002011-12-27T23:43:34.502-06:00The Week In Between<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas & Hanukkah. The days after Christmas and before New Years have always seemed a bigger "in between" time to me than just another week. It might be all the years of school, as a student and then teacher, but I like the relaxed feeling of this week after the build up to Christmas. I do wish we had more emphasis on the 12 days of Christmas but I guess we're tired from all the commercial hype. <br />
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Among good things to enjoy are the left over yummy treats before we go on the universal diet in January. I like to use some of the quieter moments for reflection and planning. Whatever you do this week put your heart into it and then march into 2012 with high hopes. I'll be spending most of my time with family & friends. Wishing you a Very Happy & Blessed New Year. Connie Akershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01908231828669340199noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-516206526074578446.post-1525618732992982592011-12-17T21:13:00.002-06:002011-12-18T22:45:22.837-06:00Almost Ready.I'm rather anxious for 2011 to be over with as it's not been a top year for our family. That's not to say there haven't been some woderful moments of joy & celebration and I hope we have a few more in the final 2 weeks of the year. The stocking are hung and we're on the count down to Christmas. I think of Christmas as a special Beginning and then we get a little rest before we jump into a New Year.<br />
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Beside the stockings and ornaments on the tree I added another bit of color to the decorations with a paint chip garland; I'm a loyal Home Depot customer so they shouldn't mind when I take a few extra.<br />
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Looking back a bit I just downloaded pictures from our trip a couple of weeks ago so I'll share a few here. The furniture show was a guy's version of Quilt Festival (much smaller but very creative). I'm hopeful that Karl will absorb some of these ideas for furniture in the new year and there will be a new house in the not too distant future. Our abode won't be as creative as the one below at Camp Lonehollow but will share the metal exterior.<br />
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In the meantime, I'm finishing up gift projects & doing some baking so that I can take to my rocking chair with a good book (hint to Santa) and cup of tea in those last quiet moments of 2011. Hope you're getting primed for a wonderful holiday with family & friends too. <br />
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