Sew forth & sew on

Swimming Upstream

2012-01-17T17:31:00.002-06:00

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).

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.

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.

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.

This afternoon I finished my first art of the year, a postcard for Art Quilt Elements. 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.

Tomorrow the Wonders are doing printmaking and I hope to have good things to show.

The Week In Between

2011-12-27T23:43:00.003-06:00

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.

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.

Almost Ready.

2011-12-17T21:13:00.002-06:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Way It's 'Spozed to Be

2011-12-11T22:15:00.002-06:00

When I started teaching way back in the dark ages of 1970 I read a book titled "The Way it's Spoze to Be". It was about the dysfunction of our educational system. No, I'm not going into a political rant.

That title has stayed with me over the years as an expression of my feelings as I ponder how I think things SHOULD be and how they really are. In the last 1/4 of my life I think I'm beginning to learn some important lessons starting with "there's more you don't control than you do" & "just because you think it's spozed to work a certain way doesn't mean it will" & finally "we will get through by Grace".

My closest friend since age 10 wasn't spozed to get cancer but she did. She & her supporters are making the best of a bad situation. She & I ran off to Fredericksburg last week & shopped, laughed & played to exhaustion (I know I was tired). Another very dear friend wasn't spozed to have her husband of 32 years want a divorce but it happened. She is being strong and brave and inspiring as she creates a new life in the Texas hill country.

Instead of doing serious art (what I'm spozed to do "IF I'm a serious artist") I spent this past week making & glittering book paper trees and snow flakes and taking time out for fun with friends. We were spozed to be moved by now so my decorations weren't spozed to be miles away at the back of storage while I'm still in Argyle. My 1970's needlepoint ornaments that live in the cedar chest instead of with the rest of the deco stuff got to be center stage once again. They are hung on the 1/2 price artificial tree (not spozed to get a fake tree as it's not planet friendly) & the Norfolk Pine that barely survived the supper from hell but they look good and I think Karlie will be duly impressed. Now it's on to making the gifts that time allows for. I was spozed to do these months ago. Ha!

So my point with all this rambling is? Life isn't the way it's spozed to be. Life is what happens while you were making other plans. Accept what is. That doesn't mean that we don't fight for what is right & good. Make the choice (over & over, day by day)to make the best of realities. Together with grace we CAN be people of Goodwill. Enjoy the season!

Ups & Downs

2011-11-21T18:05:00.005-06:00

I am not sure anyone is still checking here as I've been so erratic lately with my blogging. Just when I think I have a good post in my head something comes along before I get to the computer and have pictures to go with it. I'm already thinking of the new year & hoping to do better. I'm also hoping the house sells but that's a story for another day. For now here's a bit of an update on what's going on in my life.

Fall finally came to Texas. We had a wonderful weekend celebrating Ashley's Nov. 12th birthday. She and Frank did most of the cooking and she made not one but TWO wonderful cakes, chocolate with salted caramel filling and Tres Leches with berries - YUMMY. This was after a fajita taco bar.

In case you're thinking "lazy Mom", she wanted to do it. She loves to cook & we agree with her friends who think she could make cooking a 2nd career. We had the party here and also celebrated Elliott as we hadn't been together for his Oct. birthday. There were about 35 of their friends & lots of kids. I really enjoy that that they both have friends of long standing & we've been able to watch their children grow. Poppy was a huge hit with the younger guests with Karlie's new train. The next day a friend of Ashley's & Frank's came out and did some pictures of them and the whole family. I'm excited to see these as we've not had one of the 7 of us.

My work has been less well received lately. Both pieces I sent and Lu & my collaborative piece got rejected for the Texas Fiber Art Federation show in Feb. I know that rejection is always a possibility and I can't let it stop me from making art. I'm happy for DAFA friends who did get work accepted & look forward to the show & conference. If you are in Texas and interested in fiber art there is still lots of space to attend the

We spent the weekend in Wimberley. The temps were in the mid 80's and then dropped to the 40's by the time we got home last night. It's raining now which is GREAT.

We are loving having Karlie & her dad here for an extended visit (Mom comes on Wed.). I'm not getting to the sewing machine this week but I did get a new piece pinned up before they came. Here are a couple of possible arrangements.

The working title is "By the Numbers". I am currently addicted to the political discourse and need to express my frustrations in ways other than rants. Without going off on a tangent, I will say that I am not the "norm" that statistics say becomes more conservative with age. My plan is to get this done before the holidays so I can enter it into the Dallas Quilt show. I hope all my work for the next year is not this "DARK". Happily the family quilt mentioned in a recent post got finished and mailed and was well received.

Next week I'm going back to Austin to visit my friend who is having chemo and take her out for as much fun as she can handle during "the good week" before her next treatment. Thankfully the Dr. has said they will wait until Jan. to start radiation. I'm hopeful she'll feel well enough to really enjoy the first Christmas her grandson will be aware of all the excitement.

Wishing everyone a wonderful & blessed Thanksgiving. If you aren't familiar with "Advent Conspiracy", please check it out and consider it as a way to share your holidays It's on You Tube; I tried to link but am techno inept & 2 year old distracted.

Fall Back on What Inspires You

2011-11-02T15:08:00.002-05:00

I am not a big fan of day light saving time either when it starts or ends each year. I don't like the sudden dark afternoons and wish they would leave nature alone. The end of Oct. does mark the beginning of the holiday season and Quilt Festival.

Like many of you, I have many wonderful Quilt Festival memories and love all the excitement of the exhibits & vendors. I have always left Houston full of inspiration so today I am thinking of friends who are heading in that direction to bask in much deserved kudos and sharing of creativity. Congratulations especially to Jules Rushing & Deborah Boschert. I wish everyone a great time & hope to see & hear reports soon.

Travel to Houston wasn't in the cards for me this year so I'm focusing on recovery from an exciting Halloween weekend with my favorite munchkin and organizing for sewing & creativity on the home front. However you spend the coming weekend I hope that the fall back is a gentle boost to your creative spirit.

Out of the Blue

2011-10-25T18:23:00.000-05:00

You haven't seen any thing new here in nearly 3 weeks because I've been slogging through health yuck; nothing major but enough to dampen creative sparks. Being under the weather is NOT fun; we all know that. I seem to add mental fog & blues to episodes of physical dis-ease but don't imagine I'm alone with that. I'm grateful to Karl for taking good care of me and hope what I see on the horizon is light & lightness. Health is a blessing we so often forget to be thankful for until it's threatened.

I'm working on climbing out enough this week to do a bit of work before before we head off to spend Halloween with our favorite "Adybug"(her words). She will be celebrating her cousin/friend's 5th birthday with various pop singers, fairies, animals, ghouls and goblins. I managed to snag a wondrous "Fairy Grandmother" outfit for all of $1 at the thrift store yesterday (some manufacturer dropped dozens of bridesmaid dresses and Halloween is probably be the only time they will see light again unless some fiber artist grabs them for the yards of deep green & teal acetate). With this dress and a wand borrowed from munchkins next door I'm set to grant good wishes all around..... Don't we wish making things happen were that easy?

I never intended to be particularly political in my blog but I find myself increasingly agitated by and focused on the state of affairs in our country. I'm working on ways to express these ideas in a quilt. I am inspired by Kristin LaFlamme, among others. She is an army wife and is doing very powerful work about that role. Also check out Richard Wilkinson on Ted.

Last week I raised the guestion with my studio group as how do you know when you've gone beyond being influenced by and moved into "copying" another artist. I'd like to hear others thoughts on this issue.

Toward the end of getting back into the creative grove, I've done more indigo dyeing. This round included over dyeing some rather lackluster formerly dyed and/or printed pieces; batting & curtain fabric for a small quilt and more wardrobe updates. I highly recommend indigo for the later; it's a pretty instant change and covers even complimentary colors very well giving some nice grey blues. If you're tired of your wardrobe and have budget constraints this is a real lift.

Wishing you great new creative insights come "out of the blue".

Masters & Mastering

2011-10-05T15:58:00.005-05:00

I am the VERY lucky recipient of Masters Art Quilt vol. 2. I won it on Deborah's blog & all I had to do is leave a comment; an easy & enjoyable way to win a great book. Thanks Deborah & Lark Publishing for the inspirational addition to my library.

They are announcing Nobel winners this week and that got me to thinking about Masters in different fields. It is obvious that the way to get to the top is lots of work and practice. Some years ago I met a favorite artist/writer, Faith Ringold. She spoke of publishing her first book in her 50's and how many very talented people she'd met who weren't willing to do the necessary work to "succeed". She said if she had listened to her mother she'd have gotten a "regular" job years before and Tar Beach would have never been published which would be a loss for children the world over.

I always hoped that wouldn't be me, giving up before I found some measure of mastery or success but lately I've felt rather like a slacker. I can't change the past but I'm working on stepping up my game with more focus on my art quilting & related subcategories of art, as well as life in general.

I've recently jumped into Indigo dyeing and renewed challenging myself with Photoshop. Maybe I'll have some successes to post at a later date;maybe I should narrow down my interests but that's under consideration and yet to be decided. For now I'll say I hope I'm always willing & able to stay open to new challenges and be a lifelong learner. Maybe that will be my area of mastery. Connie Akers, Master Student. I figure I could do a lot worse. Now back to the machine where I'm quilting blocks that my great grandmother pieced before I was born. This is for my great nephew Danny & I will count it as a success in passing along family history.

2011-09-19T23:27:00.000-05:00

I'm still not "settled" back to whatever normal is so I'm showing a few more pictures from Colorado.

Down from the Mountains.....Back to "Normal"?

2011-09-13T13:00:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderful trip to New Mexico & Colorado. The best part was being cool and seeing green rather than the crunchy brown of home. I'm having trouble getting into any level of productivity. Soon maybe; the weatherman says tomorrow will be the last day of the 100+ weather. DFW area will have a new record of the hottest summer on record. I hope this is not the new "Normal" for Texas.

Wild Raspberries in New Mexico were just getting ripe. We also had great peaches & corn in Colorado. Yummy.

Mines have been closed for some time but the effects are still visible.

It was so nice to have morning coffee on the porch with this view.

That little white dot in the upper left is a house on top of a hydro plant at Bridal Vail Falls in Telluride. I was disappointed to miss George Clooney at the film festival but the views nearly made up for it.

We saw the first dusting of snow on Monarch Pass as we headed home. I have to be hopeful cool will come our way soon.

Birthday Weekend Extraordinaire

2011-08-29T11:29:00.001-05:00

I am very tired but the feelings of joy & happiness from the weekend are still with me & should carry me thru packing for our trip tomorrow. Karlie turned 2 on Aug. 21st. For various reasons it was decided that rather than Karl & I going to Midland last weekend, they would come here for a party with friends & family.

We had sooooo much fun. One of my favorite things was having both kids and spouses & Ms. K here all together. It wasn't a sure thing until fairly late in the planning as Ashley has a new job at Central Market and they are in the middle of Hatch Chili Fest. She was able to make it and Friday night we all went to dinner at a family favorite, Mr. Chop Sticks in Denton. Sat. morning we did the Akers traditional brunch of sausage gravy & bisquits. When Elliott played baseball as a kid we had to have it every Sat. morning as he was sure it gave him home run advantage.

Back to Friday night. Ashley is experimenting with ice cream, having taken a class last week & acquiring a new book on the subject. OH MY GOSH! Did she succeed! Two flavors, Salted Caramel & White Chocolate Pecan along with Chocolate coating and homemade waffle cones! DELICIOUS. She didn't have the means to make enough for the party so this was a special family treat.

I don't want her to leave her jewelry making but we all think she could have another career in food. She also did adorable & delicious cookies for the guest's treat bags (by the way, Joann's Fabric has Martha Stewart tape so you can get it with a coupon for less than the Japanese version). Also, the dress & doll she made for Karlie were absolutely precious & much admired by everyone. Those should be on her blog http://ashleyakers.blogspot.com/ soon.

The plan was that Karlie would take a nap to be "fresh" for the party. She knew something was up and didn't go along with that program, giving the big people some momentary concern but all went well after Aya (Tia Ashley) convinced her to get dressed in her party attire. When I got back from picking up the cake & balloons she was over the top excited and that lasted until she collapsed into sweet slumber that evening. For some reason I can't get the videos of her blowing out the candle here but it's really cute and on facebook. I was proud that she remembered her "thank yous" and shared toys and pinata thrashing with her guests. That one would have never let go of it's goodies without bigger kid hits as it was the largest, densest pinata I'd ever seen.

Years from now, Karlie will have to look at pictures to "remember" this celebration. I hope she will always know what's important. I made her a book in case she needs a reminder. Don't we all need to prompted occasionally?

Little Things

2011-08-28T20:38:00.003-05:00

The beginning of the school year has always been a kind of New Year for me. As a kid I always loved getting new supplies, especially the crayons. Later when I became a teacher, artist & quilter, supplies often served as a form of inspiration.

Last week I took advantage of the school supply sale and found a new sketchbook with paper heavy enough for mixed media. I painted & decorated the cover so I'm all ready for new ideas. I'm not heading back to school but hope our upcoming trip will allow time for new ideas in addition to escaping the Texas heat.

Speaking of school, life will be quiter in the neighborhood with all the children gone most days. My neighbor, Raina, is eight years old & going into 3rd grade. For her birthday this summer she asked for and received a sewing kit. Her excitement is inspiring. I invited her to pick some fabrics from my stash and helped her with lessons on the machine. This is her first project. Isn't it cute? I can just imagine what she'll be doing when she's 12 or 20.

Another small project that I'm enjoying is Priority Quilts for the Alzheimer's Art Quilt Initiative http://www.alzquilts.org. /index.html. It's a very worthwhile fund raiser that I'd encourage every quilter to join. Our family has been touched by dementia and as the population ages more and more of us will be dealing with this issue. This is a small thing we can do to help. Here are my 2nd & 3rd quilts.

A Blue, Blue Day

2011-08-13T16:28:00.005-05:00

It was blue here yesterday in a good sort of way. It was still HOT so we (Michelle, Lu & I) worked inside. This was our first experience with Indigo & I will definitely try it again. I did a bit of silk, yellow wool, yarns, some vintage prints; a faded jjill knit shirt (not in picture) along with several pieces of previously dyed fabric that I stamped with soy wax. That was fun too. Michelle did a great asian jacket, overdyed shirt & yarn. Lu's antique laces really turned out dark and yummy along with her fabrics.

Very pretty stuff and on top of that fun we got a bit of rain last night. Two good things in one day.

A Different Kind of Art

2011-08-09T21:53:00.003-05:00

This is my latest creative project and the most recent improvement to the Wimberley property. Actually I really only had a small part in the project. I drew our 3 signature oak trees on the steel. Karl spent some very hot torturous hours over the last 2 weeks cutting and constructing the sign. The front we rusted with vinegar and the back is stainless & the frame is cedar. I think he did a great job. Now to just get moved down there.

We delivered and installed the sign over the weekend and cooled off at Blue Hole in Wimberley. I sure wish we had that option here where it's even hotter. I heard someone is starting to count 105 degree days. There were rumors of rain in Gainsville today but I'm disinclined to believe it and wonder if this weather will ever break. I had to get out yesterday as my sewing machine isn't well. Doesn't that always happen when you've got lots of project? I took it to the machine hospital with a promise for Thurs. release. I kept busy inside today with house & studio pick up; laundry; office stuff; reading; and design work on Karlie's birthday surprise. Tomorrow I'm going with a friend to see "The Help"; I loved the book and hope the movie is good. Growing up in Houston in the 50's & 60"s the book rang very true for me. I'll let you know what I think. Hope it's cool where you are.

Rockin' It

2011-07-30T19:37:00.002-05:00

A PS to the earlier Post. Here's the link to instructions for crocheted rocks from Pearl Soho. http://www.purlbee.com/little-urchin-crochet-covered/

A Break in the Drought

2011-07-30T15:11:00.003-05:00

No, not the one over Texas. The tropical storm we were hoping would bring rain yesterday fizzled in the face of the extreme heat and drought. It's rather sad to think that it will take a big storm that will cause damage & distress to some to cure the ills of others. I won't get into the implications for other things here (politics, leadership, economy) or I'll go off on a rant.

What has happend is that I had a bit of a personal break thru yesterday. My friend Jo sent this quote & then offered advise to "just get to work" to counter my resent funk.

"Esoterica: One of the main problems many artists have with credentialed shows is that the effort upsets the natural flow of personal process. The better artists I know get up in the morning, put on their pants, and go to work. Figuring out where the work is to end up and who they are as artists comes afterward. This is the brilliance and uniqueness of our job. Artists who forget this become caterers and polishers of brass. " Robert Genn
I haven't been thinking much of shows lately except to look at fees and decide I can't afford them but this did get me back to the studio. Why is it we avoid that which has the potential to give us the most pleasure? I got busy and went to work. (I admit it was late morning but I DID get into the studio.)

1. I Finished another cut up t-shirt top, ironed a stack of clothes & moved them to the closet.

2. I straightened up cutting table and picked red, green, gold fabrics for Elliott & Celeste's quilt

3. I finished quilting the sliver piece from the last post.

4. I stuffed a pillow for the sofa that's been hanging around for weeks.

4. I did my 1st Alzheimer's quilt for the DAFA challenge.

5. I crocheted my first rock. These will be gifts & pattern weights.

Today I'm designing the trees for the "Rocking Oaks" sign as Karl plasma cuts it; working on Karlie's birthday book & other random piecing and will do some more rocks during tv time. Karl is moving the hose around the house as it's our day to water and we may do a rain dance. In the meantime, stay cool & do something creative that you enjoy.

Around and around we go

2011-07-20T18:50:00.004-05:00

This first picture doesn't represent what's going on today but I've been trying to organize pictures in the computer (trying is key word for any tech activity around here). This was the record snow in 2010 and the picture reminded me that it won't always be 100+ for day after day after day. I'm also thinking MOISTURE which we need desperately. I am reminding myself that like the days, the seasons do pass from one to another.

What I have been working on is the 7' long circle quilt that I started last year. I put it away (for the 2nd or 3rd time) this spring when Karlie came to visit and wanted to play with "all those pretty colors". (For those of you not of a certain age that line is burned on my brain from one of Richard Scary's first books, Mr. Paint Pig). Reminder to self: find that book for Karlie as both Ashley & Elliott really loved it, especially when Dad did it in "whiner" voice from Sat. Night Live. Excuse the digression. I'll blame it on the heat. Back to circles.

They are all fused and ready to quilt. This will go in the new house, most likely in our bedroom. I'm thinking with a metal building and tall open ceilings we'll need fabric elements to soften the space and and noise. That's my thinking and my hope is that we get the "new" house in the not toooooo distant future.
Back to the present...... The circles are 4 layers of silks I collected over years. The background is my "new fav" fabric, Pakistani cotton drop cloth from Lowe's. I'm not sure yet how it will get quilted but I'm excited it's to this point.

Not to be ever be accused of wastefulness or cause my dear father & mom to haunt me, I have 6 sheets of this new "fabric" from the silk scraps. I will also report that I gave away 2 big bags of scraps this week least I be accused of hording. The pieces are small but if anyone would like I'll share more. Each of these new pieces is the size of my Teflon pressing sheet. One is getting quilted with a sheer background fabric over the batting and most likely will be a birthday pillow. I'm leaning toward using the others together with sashing to become another quilt. It could be a companion to the big one or go live it's own life. Finally, the little bits below came from the final trimming of the circles as I wanted them to touch rather evenly after being somewhat wonky in the insides. These bits are fused to the same cotton dc. There is one more potential bd gift in a set of 9 circles on silk background. Those got got set aside based on their colors. I'm thinking these projects will keep me busy and out of the heat for a while. Hope you can do likewise.

Celebration

2011-07-11T15:14:00.004-05:00

I haven't been in the studio lately but have been busy with a different kind of creating. We spent the post 4th of July week getting ready for a special weekend. Despite recent hail & continuing heat & drought we were outside Sat. evening to celebrate Elliott & Celeste's marriage. It was truly a celebration of their love with their friend Brady offering beautiful words of wisdom, strength, love, and joy.We have considered them a family for 2 years but now they are officially Mr. & Mrs. Elliott Akers. I pray they have many years together of love & happiness.

It gives me a wonderful feeling to have both our children & friends choose our home as a place to celebrate their marriages. This was the 4th and final wedding here for us; Ashley & Frank; friends Susan & Matt Rouser &amp Shari Turner. I wish the new owners of this house much luck in making future happy memories and hope our new home will also be a place for celebrations as well.

It is pretty amazing that you can bring a party together in a short time. Everyone was busy, busy, busy but I think we all had fun too. Elliott & his dad were out and about all day Friday. Celeste, Karlie Ashley, & I ran after flowers and supplies Friday morning and then Friday afternoon Celeste watched Karlie & Patton taking a break from the heat.

Ashley, Shari & I were codesigners in flower arranging. This is always one of my favorite parts of events like this. Frank joined Ashley Sat. morning as assistant chef doing kitchen magic. Overall I was remiss in getting pictures but attendees will attest to the scrumptiousness of the charobeans, guacamole, salsa, and Mexican Wedding cookies. I hope some will come forward to share their pictures of the event as I want to make an album for the newlyweds.

Karlie really enjoyed herself and reminded me of her father as a child. Here she is with Mommy welcoming the guest who traveled the farthest, Gwendolyn who came from California with her mommy Sarah. She also enjoyed showing off her dancing skills; playing with children & puppies and doing "Marilyn" in front of the fan.

Finally, the cakes were lovely & yummy. Like the margaritas, they had to stay inside out of the heat until served but that didn't seem to lessen their enjoyment.

Good intentions and black clouds.

2011-06-24T13:31:00.002-05:00

If any one is still reading here, I apologize for my absence of 2 months. I had the best of intentions when I started my blog nearly 3 years ago but intentions also require action.
1. Blogging was going to help me focus on my art and creative practices and be an encouragement to others.
2. Blogging was to be a way to keep friends & family informed about my life and make new friends and connections.
3. I would keep it positive and upbeat (most of the time) and learn from it just as I learn from students when I teach.
I think I did pretty well for a good part of the time. I stayed with it pretty regularly and started 2011 choosing the word, "Harmony" as my theme. I was going merrily along until March when a brick wall jumped in front of me. My resolve has been greatly tested. It's been a lesson; one I didn't necessarily want. In the end I'll probably be stronger for it. Life does get in the way when you're making other plans. Be flexible. Much of the last few months I have felt like the Charlie Brown character under a black cloud or Alice falling in to a deep, dark hole. It wasn't just feeling sorry for myself but also the tragedies in Japan; around the country; and the world. Feeling sorry does not help anyone so I am getting busy to do what I can in each situation.

Summer is here and while not my favorite season, I am determined to mark the change with resolve. I am working on attitude AND action. I will do what I can and let God take care of the rest. I WILL get back to my art.
Today I'm working on digging out of the funk as I work on cleaning up from the plummeting hail storm we got Tuesday morning. I can be Thankful for the much needed rain; that Karl got a crew to do the major yard cleaning; and we are safe. A new roof will happen in due time and I will replant a few annuals in the ground and pots for color. I will hope someone comes to buy the house as I work each day to keep it in presentable condition. Tomorrow I will celebrate a good friend's 60th birthday and next week I will escape to camp to visit a good friend I haven't seen in ages. I will come home on the 4th and get ready for a PARTY.
Elliott & Celeste are getting married. They have chosen to go to the courthouse. We will celebrate here with family & friends. We don't have a lot of time (we worked on prep for Ashley's wedding for most of a year) but it will be fun & festive.
I tried 3 times to upload a video to make you smile but you'll have to go to my facebook page to see Karlie's joyous abandonment. Be inspired.

What spring brings.

2011-04-21T13:10:00.003-05:00

I started this on my iphone on Thursday but couldn't figure out how to get pictures into it; now it's Sunday night & I'm still having techno issues. I'm sure it's mostly my brain and the need to rest.

We've been down south, Austin & Wimberley. Today we celebrated Easter with family. Karlie got the hang of candy in eggs pretty quickly and she & the cousins gave us cause for lots of smiles. Thanks Mitra, Marcus, & Mary Chess for hosting a wonderful fun day. The food was great too.

Spring took a while to get here but then in rather typical Texas fashion lasted a few minutes before jumping into HOT. If time had allowed we would have gone swimming this weekend. Sadly this change of seasons has been accompanied by violent weather and fires. Much of west Texas is abaze. A good portion of the state really, really, really needs rain. Thankfully we got a bit of the wet stuff here this evening. I hope there were no tornadoes or damaging hale with this line of storms. We had tornadoes where we were in Arkansas last weekend and that was scary.I guess there is always a bit of drama associated with change and it's no less so with our efforts toward moving. It's been a while coming but a big step happened last week.

It feels rather strange and I have lots of mixed emotions but it's time to move forward. Our house is officially on the market. Life as we've known it for 24 years is about to change. Now I hope it happens fast so if you know anyone who would like a well loved (I mean that in the best sense) house in north Texas, please send them this way. In the meantime, hope all your changes are good ones.

Re Entry

2011-04-01T14:52:00.000-05:00

When I started blogging I intended it to be a forum to share my art & adventures and for the most part I've done so fairly regularly. If there are any readers still checking in, I apologize for the month long absence. I'll just say that March 2011 was mostly a dark period that I am glad to have behind me. My hurdles are nothing compared to the tragedy in Japan and I hope everyone is finding some way to help there.

I am working on being hopeful. I am inspired by the promise of spring and hope for new beginnings. I am stenghtened by loving family & friends and especially words of my father which Ashley reminded me of in her blog post on March 10, "I just hope & pray every thing will be alright".

Even in the greyest times we need to look for the bright moments. How can you not smile at this kind of innocent abandonment of care?

At the Dallas Quilt Show, Lu Peters & I won a red ribbon for Roots & Routes, the 3rd in our series of collaboration quilts. (Sorry, I'm blocking the ribbon but I promise it's there & now on my wall for further inspiration).

It is April. The pecan trees are budding. North Texas natives say that is assurance that spring is really here. I hope it's a season of promise & beauty for everyone.

Lately.....

2011-02-28T00:11:00.001-06:00

Mostly it's been work on the house taking up most of my time. I did get some fabrics ironed to fusible a while back and have used evening tv time to cut circles. Tonight during the Oscars I fused Bull's eyes and "new" fabric from the scraps. It felt good to be working with fabric and starting something new. The Bull's eyes are pictured on the dining table. I'm not sure how they will be put together but this has been in my head for some time.

Have a good week everyone.

Moving Along

2011-02-12T00:45:00.002-06:00

We had another week with ice and record cold. It wasn't all bad; it kept me home to get some work done in the studio. This is Detour II. I really need a new camera; the colors are much more intense than they look here. I've started quilting and am thinking it will get some printing on top of that.

I worked on Roots & Routes and thought it had reached the hand off stage. (This is the 3rd collaborative with Lu Peters). I put on the wall and after looking at it a couple of days I thought one area needed something. I'm auditioning additional roots; we'll decide if that's what it needs next week. I just looked back; we started this last July. Most of the delay has been on my part. I MUST work more to stay on track and task. That is a major goal of mine for 2011.

Last weekend in Austin we had sunshine and spent some time on Sat. at the park. It was a treat. I'm excited that we're expecting good weather tomorrow. Karlie & her mom came up to visit today so we're meeting up with Tia Ashley & Tio Frank tomorrow and going to the zoo. Hope you have some fun too..

February Fresh

2011-02-02T23:24:00.007-06:00

You really have to admire the bravery and fortitude of these little guys, besides I needed a picture for this post and they made me smile today. I wished for a good camera to capture the dozen cardinals waiting in the drab tree branches for me to leave their buffet. You'll just have to imagine how beautiful it was.

After starting off the new year with considerable excitement and enthusiasm, I fell into a multifaceted funk for most of Jan. Nothing really horrible but grey & draggy is a good description. Things are better now and I am ready to start fresh.

Today I read that life has grey moments so that we appreciate the bright & content ones. I mostly agree but wish that our "learning experiences" didn't have to be such a drag some time. I'm willing to try sunny beaches or exotic destinations. Oh well, travel always seems like a good idea this time of the year.

In the meantime it's very, very cold & icy here as it is in much of the country and we're staying safely inside. I hope everyone stays safe & warm and makes time for inspiration, creativity, family & good food. Hopefully I'll be back soon with something bright to show.

Practical & Process

2011-01-10T23:38:00.001-06:00

The first picture doesn't look very exciting but it represents BIG progress. On Sat. Ashley & Frank came up and helped us move most of the furniture from the upstairs "studio" down to the guest room which will now be the "sewing studio". This room has been at various times over the 24 years of living here the master bedroom, guest room, office, Dad's room, and now studio. I really owe them a big Thanks and on top of moving assistance they cooked up a yummy breakfast; I've invited them to come every weekend.

The art table, paints, and misc. tools will stay upstairs for now. The move allows the new floor to be put in and puts us back on the countdown to selling. The added bonus is I get a warmer place to work (and closer to the microwave where I've reheated tea multiple times the last few days). All this happened just in the nick of time as it snowed yesterday and is due to be very cold tonight and the next few days.

I will have to keep the space looking neat & orderly while the house is on the market so "excess" fabric in plastic bins went to the garage. The Ikea baskets are under the cutting table which got a new skirt and the closet is full but neatly organized with misc. sewing STUFF.

Add a new ironing board cover, design wall (handy & cheap painter drop cloth - for design wall over insulation foam) and a thread catcher/pin cushion and I am ready to create. I'll get more stuff down a bit at a time but today I spent a good number of hours quilting. Lu Peters & I started collaboration #3 in the fall and I really dropped the ball. We want it finished for the Dallas quilt show in March so I'll be working steady to do my part.

To step away from the big piece I also pulled out some bits and started #2 & 3 of the Detour series. #2 is pictured in it's very early stage.

Now if anyone can tell me why pictures done on the iphone can't be turned in the right direction I'd really appreciate it. Have a good week and stay warm.

Happy Anniversary

2011-01-06T23:44:00.002-06:00

Karl & I celebrated our 43rd anniversary yesterday. He brought home these lovely flowers and then we went out for Cajun dinner. Hope there are many more years to come.

Tonight we watched Heartworn Highway which was a Christmas gift to Karl from Ashley & Frank. It a documentary about the roots of outlaw country music with Townes Van Zandt, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, & Randy Crowell. It reminded us of our youth in Houston and an old friend from college who played with Townes back then.

Tomorrow night we 4 are going to see the new True Grit. We couldn't find the old one around here so K ordered it from Amazon. It will be interested to compare the 2 but we're more interested in seeing Ridgway, Co. where it was filmed and where we spent the holidays. We watched a trailer of John Wayne riding through Aspens in what is supposed to be Ft. Smith, Ark. Wonder if the new one get's the setting better?

Sketches from the Journey

2011-01-03T22:30:00.007-06:00

I mentioned yesterday that I've signed up for the Sketchbook Challenge. This is a structured challenge with a theme each month. The January theme is "Highly Valued". I haven't gotten to that one yet unless you count the hand below (my left hand). Karl & I celebrate our 43rd anniversary on Wed. so my ring is certainly a symbol of something I Highly Value.

My trip sketches are not finished works of art. I wasn't after perfection. They were done as we moved along the highway so there is some license in creating what I saw. I was interested in the changing landscape across Texas & New Mexico and the exercise of pen on paper.

I don't remember a time when I didn't draw. As a child my drawings were mostly from imagination or copying from publications (a big NO-NO to me now). When I taught school I always insisted that practice was the key to success in drawing as it is in any skill. I worked to provide the students with interesting objects and surroundings to record and stressed that observation skills would help them in any endeavor they pursued.

I remember at around age 10 doing that drawing in magazines that predicts that you can be an artist. I had an early interest in art but as a child of the race to space era I decided I was going to medical school and even started college with that idea. I don't know if it was laziness or ADD but I moved first toward medical illustrattion and finally ended up in Art Education. ART as in a BFA was not an option to my parents; "How are you going to make a living?" was heard more than once in my house. Truthfully, teaching suited my personality rather well and I had a pretty good run at it.

In college I had the best and worst of drawing instructions. The worst was actually no instruction but lots of criticism and sarcasm. The best was the Art Ed. teacher who used a method similar to Betty Edwards' "Drawing from the Right Side of the Brain". She called it Contour drawing - learning to draw what you see and not what you know. Every week we were required to turn in at least 7 drawings. I can say that they got better & better as the semester went along. If you're interested in learning to draw the Edwards book is a good guide but the real key is PRACTICE. Get some paper & pen and give it a try.

PS. I just found a free workshop on Journaling from Stratmore. Week one has some good ideas for using your old art work in new ways so take a look.

Observe & Record

2011-01-02T19:55:00.009-06:00

Happy New Year to One & All. Even for those who found 2010 to be a good year, I imagine there's hope for 2011 to be better. That is certainly my wish. As do many, I review the year past before moving forward. I am blessed and there were happy moments in 2010 but for the world I know there can be more: peace, prosperity, kindness, happiness, goodwill. I hope we can each help make the world a better place in our own way.

Focusing on art, one of my goals for the new year is to be more observant and to regularly record the observations. Toward that end I've signed up for the Sketchbook Challenge and encourage any one looking to develop drawing skills and record inspirations to do likewise. I also hope to organize my pictures and transfer them to flickr on a regular basis. I uploaded some tonight but organizing is a bigger challenge and will take a while.

Getting a head start on the observing idea, I took lots of pictures and did some sketches while traveling over the holidays. Below are a few of the photos. I'll shoot the sketches and post them here soon. I've mostly rested today as I've been a bit under the weather. I think it's a combination of weather change & exhaustion. I hope it doesn't last as I've got lots on my "to do" list, starting with getting the studio cleaned up and finishing projects set aside for the holidays and, of course, the BIGGIE is to finish the projects needing completion for the house to be market ready.....and HOPE we get it sold before the year is very far along.

We started the holidays in Austin. This yucca bloom was fading but still beautiful and I expected it would serve as contrast to what we'd see in Colorado.

I never tire of mountain views; could be because there aren't any in North Texas. Of course you don't have to travel to be more observant but it seems I'm often myopic at home where work and routine get in the way. I plan to work on that in 2011.

I love the combination of snow on red rock with green trees. It was late in the day so the green is a bit dark.

I think this faded bloom in the snow was sage. Not sure but I think it's beautiful.

I got this shot on an icy road that was a bit scary. I love the snow on the bare branches. It reminds me of lace.

We saw these Sun Dogs in the late afternoon. Someone posted recently that they are good luck. We can always use that.

Metal decoration on an 1880's building. I see stamp design inspiration.

Last bit of color in the snow. Always being on the lookout for a bright spot could be a good theme for the new year.

Blessings of the Season

2010-12-25T22:45:00.002-06:00

The week started off a bit rough. We left home on Monday going to Austin and then left there on Tuesday for 2 days of hard travel to get to Ridgway, Colorado.

Coming over the passes between Durango & Ouray Wed. afternoon, I kept thinking of the carol, "In the Bleak Midwinter", "Snow on snow". I felt more than a bit of panic as we slipped around on ice. Thankfully we arrived safely & our exhaustion vanished with Karlie's giggly greeting.

We jumped right in with 2 days of intense cooking and prep. Wanting it to "look" like Christmas we managed a few lights on the porch & a small tree with "16 month old proof" ornaments. This is different from my years of Griswaldesque decor but I keep thinking there's a lesson here. It seems that the holiday celebration goes along with the tempo of the year.

Different can be good and today was marvelous proof. Karlie didn't really understand Christmas but she completely enjoyed the gifts & wrappings. After a while she was ready for a break so she & I walked to the park in beautiful sunshine. She explored all the playground equipment with complete abandonment & delight and watching her gives me hope for the future.

The day culminated with good food & celebration with Karlie, her parents & friends, followed by football and dessert. It was hard that Ashley & Frank weren't with us in person but they were with us in the spirit of the day.

Next week we will welcome a new year. I'm hoping it is full of creative possibilities, peace & hope for everyone.

Winter Soltice Marathon

2010-12-20T19:39:00.001-06:00

Some people run and some ride and some swim great distances. My marathon is about baking and it's one I usually only due this time of year. Ashley came up Friday and we baked & baked & baked - into the night and more on Sat.. Hop over to her blog for the full report with pictures and some recipes. I'm not being lazy; I don't have the pictures here (on borrowed computer). It is doubtful I could add to what she's shared so well.

Some of the bounty has been & will be shared as gifts; some was shared yesterday during our "trunk" sale at Robin's (Thanks, Dear, for being such a good hostess. It was a good sale). Some will travel with Karl & I to Colorado and some stays at Ashley's as she & Frank celebrate Christmas in Ft. Worth. It's the most holiday thing she and I had done to date and it was great fun while more than a bit exhausting.

As we worked I felt a bit nostalgic remembering doing this with my mother and then Ashley and wondering where we will be when we repeat the tradition next year. I am not willing to think of giving it up yet and look forward to bringing Karlie & Celeste into the fun.

Karl & I are in Austin tonight helping Celeste and Karlie get ready to fly to Colorado tomorrow. We will take them to the airport and then drive with the car full of gifts and extra winter wear as their time in the mountains will be fairly long. I'll use the hours in the car to enjoy early Santa gifts - new art & quilt books & sketchbook. I hope to have some new ideas & plans for 2011 creations.

We'll arrive by Thurs. taking time for a relaxed drive thru New Mexico. We count on it being much cooler than the expected 80 degrees here. I'm excited at the prospect of a white Christmas and enjoying Karlie experience the holiday & the snow.

I don't know if I'll be able to post while gone so I'll say Merry Christmas and hope you get to celebrate with those you love. I pray for a New Year filled with hope & peace & creative solutions.

Ponder This

2010-12-15T22:29:00.003-06:00

This is a shot of the booth at Cherrywood Art Fair last weekend where Ashley & I showed our work. It is a very good and I hope we can do more together. I really enjoy working with Ashley but I am tired and I've jumped right in to rushing helter skelter getting ready for Christmas. Because we will be traveling every thing has to be finished by Monday. I am tired and frustrated because I don't have the energy I had when I was younger and my feelings about this LIMBO year are definitely effecting my state of mind. Not only is all the art packed away but also all the Christmas decorations and that has made it difficult to feel festive.

How is it that we can know rationally what is important and still not grasp it on a day to day basis? The following came today and is a good reminder of what really is important. I am now going to stop, count my blessings, and slow down.

Lesley Riley, The Artist Success Expert, is the founder of Artist Success, Solutions for the Struggling Artist. To receive her bi-weekly articles on creating your own success as an artist, visit http://www.artistsuccess.com/. The following is Leslie's story but I think many of us will identify with it. I am working on slowing down. I will probably accomplish more that way and I am sure I will enjoy the days more.

A Bedtime Story
Leslie Riley

The flu took me unawares this month, landing me unexpectedly in bed for a full week without the energy or, more surprising, the interest in anything except rest. I have been sick before but it rarely kept me out of commission for more than a couple of days or, more to the point, away from the computer.

BF (before flu) I spent my days hurrying from one task to the next, juggling my time between my business, my family and my household, trying hard to get all the many important and necessary things taken care of each day. At least I thought they were important. Turns out, much to my surprise, they weren’t all that important and many certainly were not necessary. Nothing stopped working, nothing fell apart and I got along fine not reading the flood of emails that land in my inbox everyday.

What I realized is that all of this urgency and importance that I lived by existed only in my head - it was all self-imposed. To make a seasonally appropriate analogy, I think I may have started out each day as a tiny ball of snow - one that was on a downhill course, picking up uncontrollable speed and momentum and in danger of running out of control. More than anything, I think the flu (and I have my doubts it was a true flu), was a blessing.

I am actually thankful for that bed-time. I came through it a calmer, wiser woman. Here are the changes I have made so far:

Unsubscribed from dozens of emails – things I thought I needed to know in order to go about my days. I don’t miss them.

Meditate daily – spend 30 minutes unplugged. I have learned to love the stillness.

Move at a slower pace – no need to run up and down stairs anymore.

Don't beat myself up if something doesn’t get done. EVERYTHING can wait till tomorrow.

Stopped worrying. That’s a big one. To stop worrying also means to live in the moment. Qué será, sera. Whatever will be, will be. (Remember Doris Day? I used to sing that song all the time when I was little.)

Lesson learned? Life was not speeding by, I was speeding through life! My engine was revving and I didn’t even know it. I thought it was normal. I’ll admit, I knew it was happening, but never to the extent that I am aware of it now.

So what’s this got to do with you? You tell me. How many things are you involved in that you feel can’t (or won’t) function without you? Are you always hurrying from one thing to the next? Do you feel you can never quite catch up with your life? I place myself here at Artist Success s as an expert and a role model and yet I have lived a life I would not recommend for anyone. Let me recommend this AF (after flu) one now. Let this be a bedtime story for you to ponder.

What I've Been Doing & Where I'm Going

2010-12-08T13:53:00.003-06:00

The weekend after Thanksgiving we stayed in San Marcos for the Eye of the Dog Art Center Holiday Sale. We were part of Ashley's support team. I didn't show as I'd been out of pocket so much during the fall. Friday night was COLD but the weekend was bright and beautiful and the place is fun & festive. If you want to buy great ceramic or mixed media art or take a class from great teachers in San Marcos, this is the place. Billy Ray & Beverly are not only talented but warm and friendly and I think they are creating a "Destination".

I came home to get BUSY at the machine. Ashley & I both will be at Cherrywood this weekend. We did the show together last year and are excited to be going back. If you're in the Austin area come see us and shop for original gifts. Below are a few of the things I'll have there. Now I'd better get back to the machine.

Blessings & Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T16:25:00.003-06:00

I have no art to show as I unexpectedly stayed in Austin this week. Dad & Poppy went hunting over the weekend so Grammy stayed with Karlie & Mommy. It didn't make sense to drive home to Argyle Mon. & then back to Austin today for Thanksgiving.

I stayed and mostly played with a little bit of sewing for Ms. K and some handwork for the Dec. sale. Mostly I just can just be with her and watch in amazement at how much she's learned in 3 weeks since I saw her last. Having all this fun means really getting down to work when I go back home but it's worth every minute.

It has been "unseasonably" warm in Austin this week. I put that in quotation marks as in Texas you never know what to expect from day to day. It's supposed to cool off tomorrow. We spent Monday afternoon at Barton Creek and Karlie didn't hesitate to go for a swim.

The Red Lips show how much she loved sharing a snowcone with Mommy. Other fav activities were swinging, hide & seek and chasing birds.

The Austin Children's Musuem has an hour for "Under 4's" on Sat. morning so Karlie & I went while Mommy was at sewing class. Mommy made a really cute skirt for herself and plans to do one for little miss. I guess being in a sewing family is rubbing off. I can't wait to teach Karlie too. In the meantime, she's mastering sign language and knows who to ask for snacks. She's sweet to share as a guarantee of pulling on heart strings.

For this week & all my many Blessings I am Thankful. We will be with about 25 family and friends at Mitra & Marcus'; my heart goes out to those who are far from home such as our military and say a prayer for their safety. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and be safe.

We will stay the weekend at the San Marcos property. If you're in the area stop by Sleeping Dog Studio Holiday Sale. Ashley will be there with her jewelry.

Happy Birthday Ashley

2010-11-12T22:52:00.002-06:00

Today is Ashley's birthday. We celebrated on Wed. with a day of sewing for her (a beautiful teal green silk dress for another wedding). In the evening we had dinner at Gloria's, a favorite of her's in Ft. Worth. It's El Salvadorian and super yummy. Today was rainy so she got her wish that Frank would get off work early and they spent the day together in Dallas.

I've been under the weather for most of the week but starting to feel better. Karl has gone off hunting so I'm hoping to spend tomorrow in the studio. I've got a lot of work to do for the Cherrywood sale in Dec.

In the meantime here are a few more shots from Robin & Chase's wedding. Friends made the fun Crescent moon which lots of guests enjoyed; Ashley made the Love Birds atop the cage where good wishes were placed; I did the bouquets and suppervised the table arrangements, carrying out the bride's vision using family keepsakes including her grandmother's tea cups.

California

2010-11-08T11:28:00.001-06:00

We celebrated Sarah's & Elliott's 30th. They have been friends since HS. Sarah welcomed baby Gwen 2 weeks later.

It was exciting to watch Karlie grow more confident every day in her walking skills.

I'd never seen olives growing. Northern California is full of them.

They say there's gold in them there hills.

During the Gold Rush there were 10,000 Chinese in the Oroville area. The temple has wonderful artifacts from the 1800's.

Golden hills of California

Origami jacket in Japantown, San Francisco.

Ashley & I prepared for rainy day in San Francisco.

One of my favorite store windows of many in the city.

Crab Chowder at Fisherman's Wharf. YUMMY.

Visiting Coit Tower to say goodbye until next time.

A Very Happy Day

2010-11-07T22:56:00.003-06:00

I returned from California Wed. evening and got 2 days to catch up at home (you know the routine - laundry, mail & bills, groceries, more laundry). Next order of business was putting on my decorator hat.

I was dubbed "decorating sheriff" as I gave out directions yesterday to the fab crew of family & friends charged with turning the bride's ideas into floral fantasy extraordinaire.

Today it all came together as we celebrated the marriage of Robin Phillips & Chase Johnson. We were blessed with beautiful weather and spirits to match. The whole event was a wonderful expression of love & friendship, theirs for each other and many around them. If the marriage is as beautiful as the wedding they will be truly blessed.

My camera wasn't working but Karl did get this shot with my iphone. I'll post pictures soon from Ashley of the decorations and, Oh My Gosh, Dee's fabulous desserts. I'm a convert to Rubbarb Strawberry pie.

Missing in Action

2010-10-27T22:44:00.001-05:00

This might be the longest I've gone without blogging since I started. Thought I'd check in and let everyone know I'm alive and well. Oct. has been a blur of activity. Since I am traveling without computer (on a borrowed one now) I'm not putting up any pictures. I'll share those later. First big activity of Oct. was going to Houston with Ashley for Bayou City Art Fest - fun and a good show for her.

Leaving Karl back in Texas working on the house, Ashley and I flew to California 2 weeks ago. It's been a busy trip and lots of fun being with Karlie who changed every day with more steps and new words. We did a whirlwind trip to San Francisco over the weekend in addition to daily walks and reading sessions with Karlie and helping them move to a new house. Ashley went home today but I'm here until next week.

Now Oct. is almost over and the Texas Rangers are playing San Francisco in the World Series - not too good tonight - maybe tomorrow will be better. If it rains tomorrow I may go to Chico to explore the art and quilt shop scene. Hope everyone has a Happy Halloween.

When I get back to Texas I'll be doing wedding flowers for a friend in Ft. Worth while lots of you are going to Houston. Have fun and take lots of pictures.

Blogiversary

2010-10-06T00:12:00.001-05:00

In the back of my head I'd had the idea that anniversary of my blog was near but then I got busy and forgot to check.....Opps. I started this 10-4 (can't help but think "good buddy" - something from my youth), 2008. Here is a repost of my first entry. Not much has changed; I'm still working on Moving forward. The picture here is new. A prickly reminder of where life is today.

Moving forward

One of my goals of 2008 is to move my art out of the studio into the wider world. This is my first post toward sharing my inspirations and motivations for creating art.

Since I've been following a number of blogs that I admire, most especially my daughter Ashley, http://ashleyakers.blogspot.com/ it seems like a good choice to get started here.

I have been making art for 50+ years. I have taught for nearly 40 years. I love to sew and mix things up (finding bits of treasures all along the journey that some call junk and trash).

This is a bit scary and is taking more than a bit of bravery on my part so I hope you will be patient and come back to share

Boobie Alert

2010-10-05T23:56:00.000-05:00

Taking the title from Cheryl of Ten Seconds Studio. Be sure you get a mammogram every year and in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month go over to Ten Seconds Studio and buy raffle tickets on the niche canvas creations. I'm excited that my canvas is among the offerings (shown a few posts back). You're supporting breast cancer research and getting a chance to win some neat art.

Thank You Julia Cameron

2010-10-05T12:19:00.000-05:00

Some years ago, at least 20, I read The Artist Way. I never got a chance to work through it with a group but I remember that I thought it was helpful in my journey to being an artist. I talked about it a lot until someone (an "artist" I respected)criticized it as "too 12 step". I took that criticism to heart and didn't mention it much any more and dropped some of the good habits I was developing.
I didn't know until I started reading The Sound of Paper in New Mexico last month that Julia was a recovering addict. Now it makes sense; the 12 step aspect of AW is not only reasonable but very helpful and I owe her an appology and word of graditude. Reading SOP is helping me get some small glimmer of focus during a year of confusion, delay, and limbo.

I have the feeling that not many are reading my blog as they are tired of my whinning about "the move" that hasn't happened. Every time I think it's almost here - the putting the house on the market - some other project jumps up. I've never been known for my patience and now as fall has come to North Texas I want to yell "I'm tired of this test". Yes, I know that won't do much good so I bumble along.

I do have some good news in the art dept. "Detours I -Sign Posts" (above) was accepted into the annual Dallas Area Fiber Arts show as was "The Shape of Things to Come", #2 collaborative with Lu Peters. The show opens on Nov. 5th at the Plano Art Center if you're in the area. This weekend I will be in Houston with Ashley as she's exhibiting at Bayou City Art Fest. I'm hoping the weather stays as beautiful as it's been the last few days here so come see us if you're down that way. 3rdly, Ashley & I will once again be showing (and hopefully selling) at Cherrywood Arts in Austin, Dec. 11 & 12.

Now I'd better get busy on the house projects and art.

Slow down & Breathe

2010-09-21T23:16:00.003-05:00

Inspiration for benches in San Marcos - we've got the fallen trees.

Early morning fog on Eagle Nest Lake

One of our Little Friends

Friends of friends have a cabin in Eagle Nest, New Mexico. We were lucky enough to be invited for a long weekend. The cool air and soft wind were a soothing relief from the Texas heat and it was hard to come home yesterday.

Taking a page......

2010-09-14T18:56:00.001-05:00

A few years ago when I first met Deborah Boschert I knew immediately that she was someone special. Over the years I was often been amazed by her maturity - to someone my age she's "just a kid" but boy do I wish I'd been as wise at her age. She has talent galore and an incredibly giving spirit. I felt sad when she left Texas but she's still teaching me when I slow down to remember. Today I took a page from her book and worked small & quick on 2 project whose deadlines are looming. I wanted to do these and I'd put them off to the last minute. Thanks Deborah for giving me a kick.

#1 is "On a Wing - Say a Prayer". It is a collage on nicho frame from Ten Seconds Studio. and will be part of their Auction for Breast Cancer. I hope I won't get in trouble for posting it early but I figure publicity is good. Go to their site for details coming soon.

Project #2 is "Coins of the Realm" a small art quilt for C&T Publishing's Call-Out for Liquitex Acrylic Metallic Inks. I did the background fabric in plenty of time but wasn't entirely happy with the results of a resist of flour paste (I will try again). The problem was the white ink didn't show up as much as I'd like. We only got 3 colors to work with and I knew I wanted the metallics for the elements. On those I did stamping & stenciling with bronze & copper. This is a favorite technique of Deborah's and also, Rayma Gillman, another inspiring lady. If you don't have her book "creating your own hand-printed cloth" it's definitely worth the price.

It feels good to be on a bit of a roll but studio time will get interupted once again on Thurs. as we're heading to northern New Mexico to cool off for a few days. I do expect to get inspired there so I'll take my journal and do "a page" of a different sort.

Happy creating; remember lessons learned and thank your teachers.

Abundance

2010-09-08T13:57:00.003-05:00

We definitely are seeing the end of the summer drought. That's the pond in the background, well over it's banks, so Karl got his wish that it would fill before the house goes on the market. We've had between 7.5" & 10" of rain since yesterday. Happy that we're dry inside thanks to the ditches being dug out after much campaigning with the city and the drainage improvements we've made in the last couple of years. Sadly there are flooded homes in the area; I feel for anyone with water in their home.

Another bit of abundance is this stack of books I've read lately. My favorites are on top & bottom but all were a nice diversion during the heat and my drought of creative energy.

I loved the weeds, grasses, wild flowers and cactus fruit on the property this weekend. We discussed cactus flower wine but researching the recipes led me to decide it's not worth the effort. I'll just use the images as inspiration.

NEED to Create

2010-08-29T21:26:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we celebrated Karlie's first birthday and it was a great party. I just had to make her some thing for the occassion so I did a dollie quilt & cushion to go with the baby doll and rocker we gave her. I had saved some of Heidi Pridemore's fabric and love that it's Lady Bugs having a tea party. I some time call Karlie my little lady bug.

If you read Ashley's blog you see the beautiful bracelet that she made Karlie. I almost cried when I read her post about how much she loves Karlie and I certainly agree that I smile whenever I look at her.

On the 19th we welcomed a new friend for Karlie, the grandson of our oldest friends. This is the baby who has the quilt I made his mom in his nursery. Now I NEED to make something special just for Leo.

The rocker was mine when I was young; somewhere in storage is a picture of me in it at about 2. It originally had a music box that played when you rocked and I had hoped to find a replacement but didn't have any luck. If anyone knows a source for one I'd really appreciate hearing about it.

This week my brother is visiting from Utah. He seems to have brought some cool weather with him; it's only been in the 90's and actually tolerable to get out early & late. Like most transplanted Texans who come back to visit, he wanted good Mexican food so we ventured down to Ft. Worth and played tourists on Thurs. When he's around I depend on him for photography but since he still uses film I don't have any shots of the outing. He's also a bike rider so he adjusted the seat and brakes on my "new" bike (purchased at university salvage center) and confirmed that I got a good deal. Last night we ventured out for a short ride with him giving me lessons on gears & shifting. He's out every morning doing several miles but I'll have to build up to that. He wanted me to go this afternoon but I wouldn't budge from the sewing machine.

After the week of traveling, painting & purging I really, really needed some sewing therapy. While the guys watched cops & robbers tv I came up to the studio. I am enjoying the order and hope that I can keep it that way and work while the house is on the market. I'm scared about the limited space I'll have in the time between here and the new house. I'm contemplating setting up shop in the Airstream but won't be able to completely take it over. All that is yet to be seen.

Any way, this afternoon, I NEEDED to be in the studio. I worked on bits of a collage for an auction Ten Second Studio is doing and also a project for C&T Creative Troupe. Those both have to get done before mid Sept. and there's lots of other things on the calendar too.

I have the collaborative quilt back from Lu but before I get to it I needed to practice and do a little mindless or at least streaming sewing. I sorted out some of my "bits" and considered felting but rather did a fused and sewn base fabric for ATC's for the Sept. DAFA trade. I went back and put some foil on the exposed fusible and since I had a pretty big piece I used some of it for a belated birthday gift - vase/pencil holder/whatchamacallit. It's not stiff enough to stand alone so it will go around a jar (now to find one the right size). I guess I'm into squiggles & such. Yesterday while Rick played on the computer and we talked about Dad and old country music I sewed up a tote with part of the "Jackson Pollock" fabric I had created in the spring with the Wonders group. I gave the bigger piece to a friend who saw it and said she'd stretch it and hang it in her home. Knowing I won't have room for it I'm glad it will be appreciated.

Taking a break

2010-08-17T12:12:00.001-05:00

Right now I'm taking a break from painting the studio. I tried to tell myself we could get away with not doing it but good judgement got the best of me and if I'm to present this room/the whole house in the best light it needed to be done. Trouble with ideas like this is one leads to another.....

Every thing is piled in the middle of the room and I also have a birthday sewing project to finish before Thurs. and want to go play with dyes with friends tomorrow. But some time you just have to take a break.

While stopping to check emails and browse around a bit I came on this site. I've enjoyed some of Hugh McLeod's cartoons before and now think his book sounds good - especially the first 25% that he offers for free. I'll put that on my check out later list.

Last week I took a whole day off. I went to Lu's to celebrate her birthday (belatedly) and it was a a lovely day. We discussed our quilt (she's started quilting) and other projects and then went off to lunch and shopping. I lucked out in both departments - transitional clothes on sale and ideas for the new house decor.

To add a bit of color to this post I'm showing the beaded flowers I put together for Lu. She added them to her studio shelf where her lovely felt rose pin cushions are. In the sorting & purging of beads I had found bits of flowers left over from Ashley & Frank's wedding (all the attendant's bouquets included beaded flowers as keepsakes as did the bouquet Ashley "tossed" - actually gave to her cousin). Rather than toss the bits or put them back into storage oblivion I put together this group as a token of love and friendship. Another bit of Lu's bd box was the old silk thread box; she already had the cotton so it has company in it's new home.

Hope your day is full of color. Now I'd better get back to the white walls.

Checking in and staying out of heat.

2010-08-08T16:09:00.002-05:00

It's a slow "news" week; purging and packing continue (won't I be glad when there's a different story to tell). Empty shelves and packed boxes are about the most inspiring thing I have to share. It does make me anxious for the blank canvas of a new space to grow into a home and of course, I am hopeful someone will find this place to their liking.

Thanks to Karl & Justin the garage is almost a clean slate of bright white. It certainly it looks the best it has in lots of years. K & I battled the heat yesterday (official high temp 104) to get it cleaned out. I wimped out today and came up to continue the tackle in the studio. Trim paint accidently got carried off to chemical disposal so we'll get more this week for the windows, doors & touch up on the front porch. Karl's new mailbox is the most creative new thing around here lately. Actually he's working on a really neat rough hewn mantel right now but it's for someone else's new house. Think I'll go fix him some ice water. Maybe after grocery shopping I'll take a sewing break. Stay cool.

Smiles & Barbs

2010-07-28T21:59:00.006-05:00

I ran across this critter the last time we were in San Marcos. He/she doesn't look too friendly at first glance (that barbed tail) but the quirky expression does make me smile a bit.

Life has been a bit like that lately mixing the barbs and smiles. A couple of Sundays ago a group of us did a workshop with Margie Woods Brown. Deborah wrote eloquently about it in her blog on 7/14. It was lots of fun and I can definitely recommend Margie's workshops. Most of all it was a lovely day to be with friends before we part ways (at least geographically). The barbs of missing friends are mixed with the smiles of pride and hope the future.

The next weekend I did an assemblage workshop with Beverly Mangham at Eye of the Dog Studio in San Marcos. It was fun, creative, and used up some of my "treasures" plus some of Beverly's. She is an amazingly talented and generous lady. Her art is featured in the gallery at the Center among other places. That experience was definitely smile worthy and has carried me through some of the less fun days of late.

Last Friday our small art group got together to share our round robin books started last fall. If the others feel as I do these books will be long treasured and the source of many smiles. It was a great day of sharing, laughing, eating and feeling a sense of camaraderie that is rare and beautiful.

The biggest barb lately have been the lack of time to make art. Mostly we've been working outside where the heat, humidity, dirt & grim are pretty prickly, not to mention exhausting. I am smiling at the progress we've been making but have to laugh at the realtor's assistant's comment that we should get the house very "pristine" - not a word I've ever used to describe my abode but we're working on it.

Good Week

2010-07-09T22:23:00.002-05:00

It's been a good 3 days and Lu took the finished top home this afternoon to start quilting. This is small section with a silk that I shiboried some time ago. I pulled it out of the drawer and it was "just right" for what we are saying. We're both super excited about how this all came together and we've come up with several more ideas individually and together. Hey, there might even be a series, "Yours, Mine, and Ours". I'm not sure when we'll show the whole piece. It feels rather fragile right now. We will be passing it back and forth to quilt as Lu is the master of precision grid work and I do the crazy stuff.

Speaking of crazy..... I was always the odd child so I perked up this morning reading an article in the July/Aug. issue of "Whole Living". In "The Perfect Brainstorm" Frances Lefkowitz puts into words something I have long experienced. She talks about the need to have something to obsess about and quotes Eric Maisel, who makes the case for lossing ourselves in big ideas. As the child who was scolded for day dreaming and lauligagging I appreciate Maisel saying, "Almost nothing beautiful or brilliant happens unless a person has thought about it a lot". There are even tips on how to be Obsessive-Propulsive".

So how long did someone obsess to develop a smart phone? Only a few years ago, who would have thought of people taking pictures of dinner with their phone. I don't remember if I've mentioned that I've joined the "i cult". This move was percipitated by the only signal on the property seeming to be ATT. The gadget has so many addictive features that it should probably be banned in Boston & Brooklyn & all points west, at least for some number of hours of the day. It is definitely a life changer and I hope time saver (haha). I am in learning mode and pick up a few new things every day. Any one want to play scrabble?

Our weekend plans of major work outside probably won't come to fruition as it's rained every day this week and more is forecast for the next 2 - VERY unusual for Texas in July. While the delay in getting the house ready for market is problematic I really can't fuss too much, without the clouds and rain it would be over 100 and that is definitely not fun. Oh well, there's still plenty to do. Hope everyone finds some time to have a happily obsessive weekend.

New Start

2010-07-07T21:13:00.003-05:00

This is a tiny peak at the first new work since I signed on to blog about process. It is the beginning of the third collaboration between Lu Peters and me. We started last Friday meeting for lunch to brainstorm and pick thru a box of fabrics, many of which I had dyed or otherwise altered. This afternoon she came up to audtion more and get the sewing started. Some of the fabrics we're considering are "left overs & outs" from our last piece but really there's a major jump in color & theme.

The deep purple is discharged and every thing else so far "circles around" it. There is a feeling of x-ray or shroud about this fabric. I think that's often true of discharged fabrics and have heard others make similar observations. Our idea and working title is developing from here.

It is a very intersting process to work with someone who has a very different approach to design and sewing. Friends who know Lu and I have asked how we do it. We agree that it is amazingly effortless. Being good friends helps I'm sure and we seem to bring good energy, balance and flow to the whole process. It's invigorationg for both of us and we're jumping into this one while I can take a bit of a break from the moving prep duties. I'm excited that's she's coming back tomorrow and have some work to do tonight. I'll give updates as we move along.

2010-07-03T20:18:00.002-05:00

While I haven't created much art of late I thought I'd share some images I had the opportunity to enjoy on Wed. These are the work of Jane Ruestmann. She was the June featured artist at the monthly art dinner at Carrino's in Denton, a joint venture of Oxide Gallery and Carrino's which seems to be a successful idea.

I met Jane 25 years ago when we moved to North Texas. She and her husband were wonderfully welcoming and made us feel like we'd found a good place to grow roots. Our families have shared many special occasions while seeing our children grow to adulthood and welcoming grandchildren. We will miss them when we move away.

Jane is an artist of marvelous vision & depth. I have watched her express her talents in varied ways over the years while she focused most of her energies on being an incredible art teacher. While maintaining a standard of excellence in teaching it has been exciting to see what she has created in collage and mixed media lately. I wanted to share some of her work here and say, "Congratulations, Jane, for finding your voice. Your work is beautiful."

Throwing in a bit of Creativity

2010-06-30T16:36:00.003-05:00

The packing continues. We've got our fingers crossed that friends of Ashley's may buy the house. If that doesn't happen, the goal is to get it on the market by the 15th. Toward that we're loading up a box trailer to get lots of stuff to storage in Wimberley. We're hoping the storm (Hurricane Alex) doesn't stay over central Texas this weekend. Space bags are handy for linens & such and this one even gives me an idea for a quilt design of crazy stripes.

I have gotten in a few creative moments. Ashley taught a couple of friends and me dyeing wool with Koolaid. There are other brands too, giving a great assortment of colors. The smell is a bonus, as is the ease & safety. It can be done in the kitchen microwave. Only the green & varigated are mine but I wanted to show all the variety you can get.

The afgan and hat I finished last week. It is crocheted of yummy organic cotton which Elliott picked out. It is a gift from E,C,&K to friends' new daughter. I enjoyed doing it, especially the hat. I'll have to make Karlie one soon.

The best fun we've had lately was this past weekend when we babysat Karlie for most of 3 days (she was home with Mommy & Daddy at night). M&D had a weekend reunion of old friends and spent the days on the lake and river. Friday was the first time Karlie has been out without her parents and it was a fun time of shopping and lunch. She's very sociable and a joy to watch and snuggle.

Disconnected

2010-06-18T10:24:00.000-05:00

Last night in the midst of composing my post the whole of my electronic connections shut down. This included tv mid episode of "Work of Art". Thankfully, I could turn to reading and will finish WoA later today. Some disconnects are not so easy to correct. This morning I read of National Geographic warning of an Electromagnetic Pulse Bomb that would virtually STOP the world as we know it.

Electronically or otherwise, some people are TOTALLY disconnected and worse. I'm feeling really "Dixie Chickish"; I'm embarrassed that Texas is represented by the likes of Joe Barton. I'll refrain from nasty name calling but ..... ARGGGGGGGGGGGGGG.

The latest Dallas Quilt Guild newsletter shared a story from the Dallas Morning News that Texas is the #1 state with families at "hunger risk" and the North Texas Food Bank is facing a huge shortfall. Quilt Country of Lewisville is holding a mini quilt silent auction to help. Please join me in creating a donation or bid at the auction. Quilts need to be there by 5:00 pm, July 1st. Check their website, http://quiltcountry.com for auction details. Since this is a local effort I'm also doing a sale at my etsy shop, http"//etsy.connieakers.com. I've lowered some prices and will give 15% of sales to Habitat until July 4th.

Signs of Summer

2010-06-17T23:24:00.000-05:00

It's getting HOT in north Texas. The pastures are going brown so the best place to look is UP.

Memories & Good Karma

2010-06-17T00:24:00.002-05:00

I am thinking about connections, continuity, and influences - who & what touches each of us and how we touch others.

This beautiful young mother-to-be is the daughter of my friend of 50+ years, Kathy. The quilt over the crib is the one I made in 1979 when she was born. Now I am honored that my handwork is getting a 2nd life. We're all excitedly waiting to welcome her new little one into a circle of love.

As I write this I'm watching Carol King and James Taylor on PBS; he just sang "Sweet Baby James" & "You've got a Friend". Their music was a big part of my youth and still sounds good to me.

Despite a rough start and nasty headache this morning, I gathered myself up and made it to Studio Group - better late than never. Each of these gatherings is important to me; I'm going to miss these wonderful ladies when I can't be with them on a regular basis. I believe our connection will last across geography. Three of us are moving soon: Karen to Seattle, Deborah to Annapolis, and me to central Texas. I want to believe that we'll spread the magic so to speak. Today was a UFO day with each of us doing our own thing. I'm working to finish a crocheted afghan for friends of Elliott & Celeste. Their baby has arrived early and thankfully healthy. I hope the afghan will give them joy. Flo brought 2 beautiful books to share today on Martha Mood. Flo studied with Martha in the 60's & 70's. Martha was a prolific artist & teacher and had a strong influence on Fiber Art not only in Texas but across the US. I never studied directly with her but definitely felt her influence. This is another reminder that generosity of spirit has a long life.

A Bit of Creativity & Memories

2010-06-07T23:45:00.005-05:00

I haven't posted in a while because my energy level has been in the pits and I hadn't done any thing that seemed worthy of show & tell. I don't expect anyone to get excited about boxes or garage sales. It isn't thrilling me much except I can appreciate the progress we're making. This weekend after closing down the latest garage sale I did get a bit creative in the kitchen.

Over the years we tried again and again to get these berries to grow here. Starting back in the 70's Dad had a row about 20 feet ling down their fence in Houston. Mother made jam, cobblers, muffins and fruit salad with the ones we & the birds didn't eat right off the vine. Finally about 10 years ago we got them going here.

Since we've been out of town so much this spring our great neighbors who look after the animals got most of the picking rights. I shared my recipe and heard the cobble was a big hit at a church dinner. This last week I got the last harvest; it's suddenly hot (100 plus) so there won't be many more. I made this Sat. while Ashley & Frank were here and invited the neighbors as well.

The recipe is simple, adapted it from 2 versions in a neighborhood cookbook I helped put together & illustrate in Houston in the '70's. As part of the cleaning for moving I've let go of most cookbooks (aren't most of the recipes in the world online now?). This one and a couple of other classics will move with me.

The cobble can be made with other fruits; peaches & plums are yummy and you can even mix it up. Texas Peaches are coming into season so maybe I'll do that version soon. Here's the recipe for whatever fruit you have in your area.

Simple Fruit Cobbler:

Melt a stick of butter in 9" x 12" baking dish
Heat approximately 4 cups of fruit to boiling (if it's very tart you can add a small amount of sugar)
Pour fruit into pan with butter.
Mix together:
2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teasp. salt
1 teasp. vanilla
Add 2 cups of milk and stir together well.
Pour batter over fruit.
Bake at 350 for 40-45 minutes.
Serve warm with ice cream (Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla is our #1choice)

Enjoy, stay cool, and be creative.

Season of Celebrations

2010-05-16T22:14:00.002-05:00

Remember when birthdays were bouncy houses, lots of friends, and licking the icing when Mom wasn't looking. Well maybe there weren't bouncy houses during my childhood but yesterday brought back memories of the fun of being 2 & 4. We celebrated with Jack and his cousin Catherine, 2 of our favorite little people. From there we joined friends to honor their daughter Maggie's graduation from UNT with honors. We'd held her the day she was born so it was a bit nostalgic seeing her grown up and heading off to graduate school. Time certainly passes in a flash.
Today was much quieter but very enjoyable as I celebrated my day; no bouncy houses but flowers and lovely gifts and good wishes. Karl, Ashley & Frank cooked a great lunch of Mexican shrimp cocktail, guacamole, fajitas, rice & beans. I didn't get pictures of dessert as they were served quickly before Kathy & Phil had to rush back to Houston; believe me when I say Ashley's apple cake and key lime pie were lovely & extra special yummy. I managed a second serving this evening. Thank you every one for a wonderful day.

Growing with Confidence.....

2010-05-11T23:31:00.001-05:00

I was surfing around the web this evening and this made me smile. http://whatwouldsummerwear.wordpress.com/2009/05/ I don't have the vast wardrobe of Iris Apfel but I aspire to have her confidence and sense of style. .

What keeps us moving forward? Trying new things? When do we loss the daring of youth? I'm renewing my goal to keep growing with Iris and Karlie as inspirations. Skate on.........

Thrilled......

2010-05-05T19:30:00.000-05:00

This is the only picture I have handy of "Urban Reflections". It was the first collaboration between Lu Peters and me last year. This shot was at the 2009 Texas Federation of Fiber Arts exhibit. We just got word that it has been accepted into the Tactile Architecture special exhibit at the 2010 Houston International Quilt Show and will travel to other shows during 2011. We're almost finished with our second collaboration and have picked fabric for #3. Hope we're on a roll and I'll be happy to get back to my dyeing & printing.

Right now I'm involved with much less creative activity. I'm having a sale this weekend. There are lots of art materials, books, fabric and misc. stuff. If you're in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area come by for the bargains. You can email for directions. Happy creating.

Garden Tour

2010-04-28T22:45:00.003-05:00

Today was my favorite kind of day, crystal blue sky, bright warm sun with cool breezes. I whiled away the morning outside with my camera and journal. It was hard to pull myself away to get to the practical side of life such as grocery shopping.
I've been watching LIFE on Discovery channel. Nature is truly amazing. I am thankful for days like today when I take the time to enjoy my little spot of it.

Fiesta Art Fair San Antonio

2010-04-14T15:07:00.000-05:00

If you're in the central Texas area head to San Antonio this weekend for one of the best art fairs in the country. Fiesta Art is at the Southwest School of Arts and Crafts on Sat. and Sunday. Admission is $8 and well worth it. I'll be there with Ashley for her second year at this great show. Stop and say hello and treat yourself to serious eye candy with her beautiful jewelry.

Good Feelings

2010-04-13T11:24:00.001-05:00

My mother always told me that it is nice to share. She was right and it feels good. Last fall there was a great exhibit in Denton, "Blues Chapel". I had seen Susan Lenz's work in a previous show and online so I was thrilled that this installation was coming to a venue near me. Through my urging, The Visual Arts Center asked Susan to open her introduction, designed for docents, to the public. Not only did she speak eloquently about her work but she brought along her latest work, the Grave Rubbing quilts. She was more than gracious and even allowed us to touch and examine them closely.

My only disappointment that day was that there wasn't a much larger audience, especially friends who I knew would appreciate what Susan was doing. We have 2 universities in Denton and I hope some of the art & fiber students saw the exhibit. They missed out not meeting Susan. Without a doubt her work speaks to me with incredible power and beauty.

As part of my continued clearing, I mailed Susan some bits of my stash that I'd held on to for years. Some were family bits and others had been passed to me by friends when my work was focused on using old linens in clothing. I knew these bits needed a new life and thought of Susan. Now I am thrilled and amazed that in an incredibly short time Susan has given them life beyond what I might have imagined. I can hear my mother and grandmother's admiration. See Susan's blog.

Here, There and Stretch

2010-04-12T14:57:00.002-05:00

The pink flower on the left and the white blooming tree are growing on the San Marcos property. I don't know what they are except beautiful. I accept them as a gift.

I am really having trouble with focus and feeling torn between here and there and answering the question, "What do I do next?". Can some one give me a magic wand so all this will be behind me? I know....that's not the way life works. Move forward, move forward, move forward.....one day, one step at a time.

If you've read here more than a couple of times you know that Karlie gives me hope and inspiration in ways I never imagined. Yesterday I got word that she's learned to move forward and pulling up on furniture. Look out world!

A friend posted this morning on facebook "it's a beautiful day in the neighborhood" and that made me smile. It is that here too and I hope it's the same wherever you are. It's hard not to be out digging in the dirt which would be my normal April activity. In a effort to be creative, I'm playing around with more small art quilt ideas.

When I took a break to get the mail and walk around the yard my thoughts turned to what I'll miss when we leave this place. The roses are near the top of the list. The Lady Banks only blooms once a year but what a show! The Zephren Daphne is a beauty and very fragrant. I'm hoping to get rootings of it and some of the other old varieties. I read that deer don't eat "Old" roses but the new neighbor's comment of, "You can try", wasn't exactly encouraging.

Oh well, nothing happens without effort. Keep stretching.

Something to show.....

2010-03-30T22:44:00.001-05:00

I've been busy, busy, busy at the sewing machine. I've quilted the begessus out of the collaborative piece that Lu and I started last fall. I'd let it mellow out on the design wall for months and then got in gear last week to get going again. It's not ready to be unveiled yet but I do have some other work to show. Taking the lead from a friend I've done some small pieces. The almost instant gratification (some elements have been around for a while) feels good. The 2 midle pieces are mounted on 5" canvases. The yellow Windows and the new Tide Pool are each 11"x11".

Ashley got these 4 and another listed for me today on Etsy and linked to my Etsy page to Facebook. I'm hopeful that will get more traffic. I've been feeling a bit lonely lately thinking no one notices what I'm doing. Making art is primarily for me and my own satisfaction but it's also saying something that I hope others hear.

In between sorting & cleaning duties Ashley has been busy making new spring clothes so we've had the dueling sewing machines going. I'm hopeful we'll have these sessions regularly even when we're living hours apart. It will be some thing we'll have to schedule and make happen.

Stepping Up

2010-03-21T21:21:00.001-05:00

I found these boots at Target and figured they are just what I needed to stomp around the property as we work toward building. Karl thinks I'll need leather work boots when it gets warmer but I couldn't resist the fun of these and was glad to have them yesterday after heavy rains over night and cold blustery winds as we worked.

Here I've put my foot up on a rock about 2' high. It is representative of what is on a good portion of the property. I love them.

This week I'm stepping up and out in another way. I've been invited to share my Art Saves story on Crescendoh.com. Please visit.

These little cactus are also abundant on the property. Aren't they cute? Yes, I know, we'll have to be careful, especially with children. There are hazards in nature as in life - scorpions, snakes, chiggers, all kind of critters we all need to learn to respect and enjoy.

Hard to tell but this is a large oak fighting it's way up through the rocks. Growing big and strong is not an easy task.

And speaking of growing big. Karlie is 7 months old today. So many changes in such a short time.

As I write this I'm watching the House debate on health care reform. I pray that we move forward and pass this reform for her and others.

Changes - Time, Season, Growth, Attitude.

2010-03-15T10:15:00.001-05:00

It's nice to be missed. A friend told me Friday I wasn't blogging enough lately.  Partly I figured there's only so much anyone wants to hear about packing boxes; the other reason is that I've felt really crumby. I won't dwell on the negative but imagine going down a long, dark, spiraling tunnel. I will offer a warning: If you're taking Statin medication for high cholesterol, PAY ATTENTION to changes in how you feel. I took myself off the meds on Friday after an epithany moment Thurs. night and considerable online research. I feel better already but don't know what to expect next. I see the prescribing Dr. this afternoon and may have another change in that area.

On a brighter note, I'm thrilled that spring is coming. It will take me a couple of weeks to get used to the new time but I love the brightness of the light and the trees ready to burst into green. I was amazed to see the flowering trees driving to Dallas Friday and noticed little things in the yard over the weekend, including how much better it looked after Ashley, Frank & I worked a few hours Sat. Yesterday there were 5 Cardinals and a Jay fussing at the feeder....Birdfood is on my list today.

I hadn't been out and about much lately so Friday was a welcome excursion. The Dallas Quilt Show is a spring highlight every year and I was not disappointed.  I probably would not have gone if not commited to sit as a volunteer for the Dallas Area Fiber Artists special exhibit.  Isn't it interesting that obligations met can give us just what we need? The DAFA exhibit was a beautiful selection of work.

The small piece top left was in another special exhibit called "12 Square Inches" sponsored by the "Twisted Stitchers" group.  I was included at the invitation of Deborah Boschert.  I feel honored to be in such great company.

The Tulip piece got finished on Thurs. It is for an exhibit sponsored by the Visual Arts Society of Texas called "Merging Visions". This will go with a poem titled "Tulip as Role Model" by J. Paul Holcomb of the Denton Poet's Society. The show will hang in Denton libraries during April.

I'm hoping that all the changes in the air will include renewed creative energy and I'll have more art to show in the weeks to come.

Progress

2010-03-05T23:32:00.001-06:00

It's been a busy couple of weeks. Between trips to Austin & San Marcos, I've continued the organizing of what I want to move. Every box in the studio has been examined and labeled. It's hard to say how much as been edited out but I'd guess about 1/3 Lots of great stuff will be looking for a home with someone else and I'll certainly announce the sale when the time gets closer.

As another move to get things to new homes, Ashley has helped me photo and list items on Etsy. The spring green scarf isn't there but I hope to get some of this type there soon. Today I was selected in my first treasury by msbelle - my small pink book. That's exciting to me.

We're enjoying company for the weekend and we went to see Crazy Heart on Ashley's recommendation. We all agreed that it is a great movie and hope Jeff Bridges wins the Academy Award. I hope to get back to the studio early in the week and have new art to show soon.

Happy Hearts

2010-02-14T19:24:00.003-06:00

I started collecting hearts back in the '70's so there are lots around the house (another thing I'll probably have to edit for the move). After Karl & I watched Couples Retreat this afternoon (good laughs for a grey day) I spent quiet a bit of time editing and organizing photos. I managed to create a mosiac of a few of the collected hearts but but I could not get it to save and load into blogger.

Now it's time to make dinner so I'll show a few and say Happy Valentine's Day. Hope everyone has had a day filled with love.

Opportunities

2010-02-09T10:02:00.000-06:00

In case you're looking for more ways to donate to Haiti relief, go over to ebay and bid on the lovely ring Ashley has donated. 100% of the proceeds go to Global Giving. Thomasin Durgin of Metal Riot has organized the auction. There are 50 rings so that's 50 opportunities to give.

The sun is shining! What an absolute thrill after what seems like weeks of grey. I'll be inside most of the day but my mood immediately brightened when I saw the difference in the light...definitely an opportunity to smile.

I start physical therapy today for my knee. It's a new opportunity for me to get in better shape. Whatever I learn, I have a new resolve to get fit.

Ashley is coming today to help me list things on etsy and giving me an opportunity to work on new art. Hope your day is full of great opportunities.

The last week was full of opportunity for hugs. I have to end with a picture of one of the greatest joys of my life. Hope she makes you smile.

Exciting News

2010-02-03T15:19:00.002-06:00

The Tote put together by Lyric Kinard with my fabrics included sold yesterday for $250 in the Tote Tuesday fundraiser. That's $250 for American Cancer Society. There will be lots more Totes to come on Tuesdays through March so check it out.

The second good news is that Karlie arrived last night for a visit. She came with her Mommy & Dad. She and Mommy are staying with us while Dad left this afternoon to go snowboarding for a few days.

They arrived in time for everyone to go to Jane Ruestmann's opening at Oxide Gallery in Denton. Jane is one of the featured artists for Feburary and there is still some beautiful work to be had there even with what looked like very brisk sales last night. Congratulations Jane. Karlie is already a collector, having a piece over her crib. You can't start too early building art appreciation. Finally, I got a great message last night from our God son telling me that he's decided to major in art and teach HS Art. That makes me proud for whatever small influence I may have had in that decision. Exciting.

Checking In....

2010-02-01T16:51:00.001-06:00

This was last week when the sun last shone. Today is grey. I just wanted to say hello and that I'm getting back to thinking about making art. I found this blog post by Mary Ann Moss in my surfing this afternoon for a spot of color and inspiration.

I did the hospital thing last week. It was actually a "Surgicare" where you bounce in and out in one day. I got arthroscopic repairs made to my right knee and the meds, to which I am very sensitive, bounced me home again about 6 hours later (this being a "30 minute" procedure they'd said). I pretty much slept away the next 24-30 hours. Karl took very good care of me with Ashley coming up on Sat. while he attened a memorial for a friend from HS. Given that he drove 3+ hours each way he was tired too yesterday so we vegged the day away with movies and snacks.

Today is still cold and dreary so I didn't have any qualms about getting right back to the comfy chair after getting the stitches out at the Dr's. office and having breakfast at Cracker Barrel this am. I had visions of working in the studio but the cold was too much and my leg ached - strange since they have you put ice on for swelling. I did manage to stack some fabric in a bucket for "Lasagna Dyeing" (mixed up dye colors & scrunched fabrics in one bucket). I'll post a picture if they turn out well and maybe even get upstairs tomorrow to sew before Celeste & Karlie arrive for a visit. In the meantime, from under the wooly blanket I'm sending greetings and hope everyone stays safe and warm.

LIfe Interupted

2010-01-22T23:22:00.004-06:00

I never saw the movie Girl Interrupted but I'm having the feeling that I'm in a version of Life Interrupted and it's going to be a long running show. Thankfully there was a midweek intermission which I'll describe later.

Ashley came up for 4 days this week and we sorted, purged, cleared out, and cleaned. We concentrated on art supplies and books. We haven't even touched fabrics so there will be many more days like these. Ashley is quiet the taskmaster (did I train her too well?); she threatened to recommend me to "Hoarders" if I didn't stay with the job. If this sounds like complaining it's the exhaustion talking. I really do appreciate the focused direction. She has several big shows in he spring so we're doing this while she has some flex time and I'm thinking it will give me a good work environment when I can get back to making art between now and the move time. Thanks kiddo.

The intermission mentioned above was an outing for Deborah's 40th birthday. Six of us met at an elegant new eatery in Dallas, Samar by Stephen Pile. The celebration was to honor her but we all enjoyed the experience.

Tote Tuesday

2010-01-20T23:11:00.005-06:00

This 3+ yard assortment of hand dyed, printed, and painted fabrics are my contribution to TOTE TUESDAY. I am excited to be participating in this latest installment of Fiber Arts for A Cause organized by Virginia Spiegel. In case you're new here, FAFOC is Virginia's brainchild to raise money for the American Cancer Fund.

My fabric will be included in a Tote sponsored by Lyric Kinard and will include her new book, Art & Quilt plus a beautiful beaded journal she has created.

Go to Virginia's website for more details. Bidding starts Tuesday, Feb. 2nd with the project running on Tues. thru March.

Hope in the face of loss

2010-01-14T21:40:00.006-06:00

For most of last week and some of this I have not felt well. I think my original malady morphed into seasonal allergies accounting for the sniffles, sneezes, headache that have turned me into a bit of a zombie. I'm hoping I'll feel better with the weather change expected this weekend. I know I'll feel better seeing Karlie. Any problems and worries I have are minescule in the face of the tragedy that has unfolded this week in Haiti.

The last 2 days remind me of the images of Katrina. Once again I am reminded of how richly blessed I am. I have a life filled with hope; I have a life of luxury compared to standards of much of the world. My circumstances are far removed from those of the citizens of Haiti. I can hardly imagine theirs. They had little in their lives before the earthquake and now the horrors they face are overwhelming.

I believe in hope. I believe there is power in each small action, donation, volunteer effort. I urge everyone to do what small thing they can to bring hope in the face of this loss.

Slow

2010-01-08T22:21:00.008-06:00

For most of the last 3 days I've been snuggled under this blanket with Miss Meowgie on my feet. Partly it's the weather (VERY cold) but also I've come down with a bug -aching, no voice and yucky cough. Karl has been especially sweet taking care of me with soup and other treats. He's got a crock pot of chili going for tomorrow....cooking nice and slow.

All this slowness is giving me opportunity to think about the changes ahead and how I need to best deal with them. Some things will require that I act and others will require that I be patient and calm, not my strongest traits. Hours of web surfing has given me lots of inspiration for new art even if my head isn't clear enough right now to make real decisions.

I've been thinking for some time about doing more hand sewing. Some of the inspiration comes from Susan Lenz 's Grave Rubbing quilts and Jude Hill. I even dyed threads in the fall toward that purpose but sadly they've disappeared. I'll have to believe they'll reappear in the future and for now I've got an inherited collection of floss. Stitching seems like a nice slow & calm balance to the craziness ahead.

A review of '09 pictures has me thinking about a series called "seeds of change". Check back to see what develops. Slowly...............

Warm and lovely

2010-01-06T14:41:00.004-06:00

I was the fortunate recipient of these lovelies for Christmas. Shari gave me the hat (made by the talented Lesley Kregel (Cimarrona) and Kathy did the mobius neck warmer. Both will get good wear over the next few days as the weather is supposed to stay below freezing with a wicked wind.

Ashley made the beautiful scarf in my favorite combination of purples & greens. The yarn is Noro Kureyon. It's designed for socks but obviously has other applications. She and many others love it and now I know why. It's definitely yummy in look and feel. I found an enamel pin from her college days that works wonderfully with it.

All this creative use of fiber is inspiring me to get busy in the studio.

Body Snatchers and Bloggers Beware.....

2010-01-06T14:35:00.003-06:00

Here is proof that Ashley is NOT stranded in Barcelona and needing everyone in her email list to send money. She's at my house and we're making her a body double so she can sew for herself. It's not a very comfortable process but hasn't been without a few giggles. That's better than the frustrations she's endured all morning changing her passwords.

It seems that scammers keep getting more creative so everyone beware.

Milestone & Moving Forward

2010-01-05T23:42:00.004-06:00

January 5, 1968 - a life time ago. Today is our 42nd anniversary. Karl was enlisted in the navy back then so his hat was different. I won't say much about the grey and weight we've both added over the years but I'm glad we're still mostly smiling. This picture was Christmas day. Ashley & Frank gave him the Captain's hat to wear while he's guiding the "land yacht" down the road as we head off on our new adventure.

It was tough for me today to share our big news with the Studio Group. We're moving. We found land in San Marcos during the holidays and will head south after 25 years in north Texas. I hope we can sell the house and get our new base build within the year. There's lots of work to do. These beautiful trees will be in our front yard. I'm thinking our lives and the brambles here are very similar - lots to clear and clean as we downsize for the journey.

If I think about the year ahead for too long I get overwhelmed and want to run screaming into the night. I've been the one wanting to move for some time and now that it's a reality it's more than I can grasp. On one hand it's very exciting and on another it's scary and sad. We built this house; we raised our children here; we spent 23 Christmases here. All the planning, sorting; packing; and making choices will be hard work. It will interfere with my art making not to mention require me to do major deacquisition.

The quiltart list has been discussing a "word for the year" and I think I've picked "Choice". There will be lots to make this year - big and small and I hope we get them right. Wish us luck and smooth sailing as our adventure begins in 2010

Seeds of Change

2010-01-01T23:38:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year to one and all. I think I am ready to begin a new year and a new decade.
These seeds, which some would take to be ugly and of no interest, remind me of a promise made in "the bleak midwinter". In spring their magic will give us pause. My toast to the new year is that it be positive, productive, prosperous, and peaceful for one and all. I hope the pieces of cloth, thread, paper, wood, stone, metal and all the bits of life we choose work together harmoniously and with wonderful creative energy. I hope everyone is ready to meet the challenges ahead.

A Day of White & Wonder

2009-12-29T23:25:00.004-06:00

I'm just now getting around to posting about Christmas as we left home on the 26th and have been very busy in Austin & vicinity. More on that later.

The quiet of Christmas eve continued through the morning until the roads cleared enough for everyone to gather. The party didn't take long to get going with lots of fun & laughter and a major announcement from Karen and Ken. I think that gave Kathy and Phil the prize for best gift. They'll join us in the grandparent club in Aug.

The food was delicious. With the delays it got to the buffet rather informally but no one seemed to mind. The pic doesn't even show the desserts which were on a different table and PLENTY YUMMY. We finished off a good bit of the left overs today with Austin family.

Kathy supplied the crackers to keep the traditions of their Scotland years alive. The prizes were along the line of whoppie cushions and trick cards but we wore our crowns in good spirit and the mood was festive as we celebrated family, friends, and love. God bless everyone.

Merry Christmas to All

2009-12-24T22:30:00.003-06:00

This has been the quietest Christmas Eve I can remember. The rare North Texas snow disrupted traffic to the point that Ashley & Frank couldn't get here from Ft. Worth and the friends we've celebrated with for over 21 years were also "no shows". Church was canceled so we've been here with Kathy & Phil watching "August Rush" and a country music Christmas show. Now I'll turn up the holiday tunes while cleaning up the kitchen.

Santa and dinner will be as late tomorrow as need be for everyone to get here and the gumbo will be saved for another evening.

Blessings to one & all.

More cuteness.

2009-12-21T22:11:00.004-06:00

It is truly amazing to me that one tiny girl can bring such joy and happiness to my world. Karlie is so precious and here she is admiring Santa as he dances around and then talking to herself in the mirror.
Mommy had said she wanted her to have boots someday and I found these little red ones for snowy days. Too much fun.

Now I've got to get ready for the next installment of Christmas. I hope to get the last of the shopping done tomorrow. I couldn't go today as 2 of the 3 vehicles would not start. The count down continues.

Magic....

2009-12-20T00:34:00.005-06:00

This week has been about regouping after the Cherrywood art sale in Austin (check here for pictures); visiting with friends, and getting ready for special company. I did a 3 day marathon of decorating; Karl cooked yummy smoked chicken and we had our first Christmas celebration. I Cooked Elliott's favorite potato salad; Susan brought green salad; and Ashley made Fantastic mint chocolate chip cookies which every one loved.

All the excitement was because Karlie came for her first visit to Grammy & Poppy's. They arrived Friday afternoon just before other family & friends, mostly with little folks. One surprise guest brought all kinds of happy reactions. There is definitely magic in the air.

Tuesday and it's about time.....

2009-12-08T22:29:00.005-06:00

........to get back to work. It was 2 weeks ago today that I left home. I got back late Sunday and spent yesterday with typical post travel catch up. We had a great Thankgiving weekend in Austin. The big day was shared with 25 friends and family at the Boddens and they were wonderful hosts. We were too busy having a great time to get many pictures but of course, I got a shot of Karlie in her darling brown velvet outfit.

The rest of the weekend we chilled out in the rv at McKinney Falls State Park. Some of the chill was literal as we had some electricity issues (we're still in "learning mode"). Sat. we went to the Eye of the Dog Art Center for their holiday sale and Karl & Phil resumed their conversation about extended travels and a base camp in the central Texas area. We're set to explore some options after Christmas.

Early on Sunday after Thanksgiving I flew off to Colorado with Elliott, Celeste, & Karlie. Most of the time I stayed inside with Karlie while Mom & Dad hit the mountains with friends. When not rocking & snuggling, I got a good bit of crocheting done, making small stuff for Cherrywood Art Fair this weekend. I flew back to Austin on Friday to help Ashley at the art sale at Laguna Gloria and must have brought the cold (and snow) with me. It was pretty quiet as the sale was outside and lots of people stayed in.

I hope Cherrywood has better attendance and we will be inside. Please come out if you're in the Austin area. I've got LOTS to finish before leaving on Friday. I should say there are lots of things started and I'll finish as much as I can. Lu & Michelle volunteered to come help tomorrow and I welcomed the offer. Aren't friends wonderful?

Before the holiday, I went to see Susan Lenz's "Blues Chapel" at the Greater Denton Art Center. The show is wonderful and I had the added pleasure of hearing Susan speak about the development of her work and share her newest series, the grave rubbing quilts. I wish more people had been there as she is a generous and inspiring speaker. I definitely encourage everyone in the Denton, Dallas-Ft. Worth area to see the show before it leaves Jan. 6th. If you're not in this area contact Susan about it coming to a gallery near you. This is a portion of one of the stainglass windows she created in cloth. She has much better photos of the installation on her blog but again, you really SHOULD see it in person.

Least any one thinks I'm slacking......

2009-11-20T22:31:00.004-06:00

I've realized again lately that production work is not as fun as making art pieces but I'm trying to stay busy getting ready for the Dec. sale. That means there hasn't been much art to show.

Wed. I took a break For Studio group to come here. I didn't have a great project planned but my lentil soup was pretty popular. We did our usual show and tell (Deborah was the star of the day) and then I had the fabric, paints, stencils, and stamps out for any who wanted to play. I tried an Indigo Junction ginkgo stencil on the piece above. This is one of my new scarves but it's not going to the sale. The colors really suit me too well. Below is a box of finished items, mostly small bags and dyed scarves. I'm working now on my scrap scarves and I'll take pictures of those soon.

If you're in the Austin area the sale I'm working toward is Cherrywood Art Fair, Dec. 12 & 13. Please come out and do your holiday shopping with Ashley, me and the 78 other artists.

Please Come Out

2009-11-20T00:22:00.003-06:00

If you are in the Dallas - Ft. Worth area, please come out on Sat. to meet fiber artist Susan Lenz and welcome her to Texas. She will speak about her work at 2:00 pm at the Denton Visual Arts Center. The talk is free but please call Deb Dyer, 940-382-3787 for reservations. Her installation,
Blues Chapel will be showing there until Jan. 6th. This work payes tribute to woman in the Blues. Susan has studied under several internationally renowned fiber artists and been juried into numerous national exhibits.

While you're in Denton, also see the weavings of Lia Cook at the University of North Texas. I am sorry I wasn't able to get to her talk this evening.

Tuesday turmoils.....

2009-11-17T10:31:00.006-06:00

or "life is what happens while you were making other plans" . I come from a long line of family "sayings" and added many more when I married Karl.

"if wishes were horses, beggars would ride"; "if ifs and buts were candy and nuts we'd all have a merry Christmas"; "be careful what you pray for" (refering to patience only learned thru adversity). Some, such as "if your nose itches, Mrs. Pollock must be coming", I never understood.

These all come to mind on days like today. I'm working to regroup, refocus, and redefine my time for now thru the end of the year. Using an amusement park metaphor, my life right now is a super sized roller coaster.

The ups & downs of the ride since last I posted:

Up - I worked 2 days last week for my old company at the Texas Art Ed Conf. (attendance 1971) - good seeing old friends with assurances that 15 years as art consultant meant more than a modest income; good to see new teachers excited and committed to art in the face of daunting challenges.

Down - I am out of shape; standing on concrete for 2 days and schlepping 50 lb. boxes is NOT the kind of work I want to be doing again on any regular basis (there is an issue of "going back to employment", but I'm pushing that to the back burner now).

Up - Lu came up last week and Suzanne came Sunday. I am very ADD of late; often unfocused. I seem to work better beside someone, especially very creative and supportive friends. I hadn't visited with Suzanne in a long while so it was exciting to hear lots of great things in her life.

Down - Both Ashley and Elliott had close friends lose a parent this week.

Wake up call: Work on living the healthiest life possible. I spent yesterday morning at the Dr. getting antibiotic for an infection; niasin for cholesterol; and the news that the recent MRI shows more damage to right knee - it's fixable with minor surgery which I'll deal with "soon"

Up - I'm going to babysit with Karlie the week after Thanksgiving. It will be in Vail, adding a touch more fun (except for the flying part which everyone knows has become a hassle). No skiing but I love the views and will take crocheting & hand sewing for nap time.

Down - The time away from home means I won't have as much for the sale.

Up - I have a choice in how I use my time. Today, in addition to sewing, it's making soup and picking up for Studio group here tomorrow.

Yes, "Life is daily". I'm off to make the most of this one. The picture above is "Gut Reaction". I did it several years ago turning my homemade "body double" into a sculpture. It reminds me of how we make choices in life. It adds a touch of whimsy to my back yard - not to mention confusing some viewers.

After the tangle.....

2009-11-10T12:42:00.004-06:00

As I mentioned last night, I went off yesterday to teach a workshop in Ft. Worth. It was for elementary art teachers in Ft. Worth ISD and it's a group I worked with over the years I was an art consultant with Sax Arts & Crafts.

It's been a while since I was up and on the road with the commuters and it's gotten MUCH worse than I remembered or allowed for. As I sat mostly still for periods of time I tried to find design where I was...line, shape, repetition. AND I am VEry thankful that I don't do this every morning.

Arriving only a few minutes behind schedule, I jumped into the day. Of course, there were a few tangles as the teachers selected and measured off their yarns. I was energized and inspired by the their willingness to try new things (for most) and help each others (veteran crocheters). I'm sorry I didn't get names here but it was a whirlwind day as the groups changed every hour. These are a few of the creations done at the end of the day. Pretty cool after less than an hour of instructions. If you know a teacher tell them how much you appreciate the work they do. It's pretty heroic and I'm glad to be reminded of that.

Inspiration

2009-11-09T18:46:00.003-06:00

This video came in a Pickens Plan mailing and it is truly inspiring.

I taught a workshop today for Ft. Worth art teacher and they always inspire me with their dedication and creativity. I'll post pictures of some of the workshop results and show those later.

Sunday thoughts

2009-11-08T20:49:00.004-06:00

How is this for "peaceful bliss"? Wouldn't it be something to maintain this degree of restfulness at least occassionally in our "grown up lives"? First off, you'd have to go on a news fast. It's definitely a problem for me to balance the need to be informed with not getting swamped by the sadness and maddeningness of it all. Either there's serious insanities such as this week's shootings or on and on and on about some inane celeb. Serious yuck.

I'd rather look at this and smile.
Deborah posted about hands. I'll have to get a picture of some of my collection of hand images but in the meantime, these are the BEST of all.

Fresh and innocent and full of possibilities and hope for a future to believe in.

Colors of the Season

2009-11-02T14:24:00.005-06:00

YEA! The beautiful weather continues. Ashley blogged about finding new trails in Ft. Worth and when my knee is better I hope I can explore with her, Frank and the pups. I have taken a bit of time as I drive to notice a few of my favorite things of the season, the grasses and Sumak (at least that's what Dad called the second).

I'm doing more dyeing today and these colors are appearing in my fabrics. Some of the scarves I did on Sat. didn't suit me (too pale) so I'm adding more color to those plus more silk for scarves and cotton threads for crochet and embellishment.

Yesterday was All Saints Day and I thought of all the people in my life who helped mold me into the person I am today. I have been much blessed.

Check your local pbs station for a show on the Civilian Conservation Corp. It is airing this evening in our area but I'd bet it gets repeated. My Dad was in the CCC and he was always proud of what they accomplished. Many of the parks, both state & national still have buildings from that program. I believe the love of nature he passed on to his children and grand children grew with his experience with the CCC. I think we could use a 2009 version but that's another post.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T19:58:00.005-05:00

Karl and I got into the spirit last night for the next door neighbor's party. It was fun to see all the little & big kid costumes. Not many recognized my character (Frida) but crazy gypsy lady worked. Tonight has been quiet as just about the whole neighborhood was out last night for the fun. We're definitely "the old folks" as most houses have sold to younger families in the last few years. Maybe they'll have friends who will want our house when the time comes (in the not too distant future I hope).

The weather was beautiful today so I took advantage and got some dyeing done and hung out to dry. I'm trying to work steadily for the sale with Ashley in Dec. It's hard to believe that Oct. is gone.

We've had the wettest Oct. on record according to the weatherman this evening and 14+ inches of rain for Sept. and Oct. That after a horribly hot summer. I'm definitely ready for sunshine and cool temps that are promised for the week ahead.

One good thing about all the rain is that we get a bit of late season color before every thing goes brown and bare. I spotted this thistle early yesterday and on closer inspection the bee seemed someone stymied by the cold as he didn't immediately fly away.

Old Friends and New Adventures

2009-10-16T23:53:00.005-05:00

The first image above is a 32,000 piece "Friendship Quilt" from Pittsburg at the Houston Quilt Show. I hope I don't get in trouble for showing it (copyrights and all). We were in Houston last weekend for 2 funerals and I had a few minutes to go to the show and market on Sat. This installation gave me pause to think of the importance of friends and relations. Would we behave better if we all put our name on squares of fabric and joined them with our neighbors to decorate our world? It seems that it's worth a try.

I was able to do the VERY fast run through thanks to my friend Heidi Pridemore. She is a fabulous designer and has a new book coming out soon. I am very proud to be her friend and appreciate her generous spirit and our shared memories of the lady who introduced us, Mary Kortemeyer. We both feel a debt of gratitude to Mary for the impact she had on our lives.

Monday Lu and Michelle braved the rain to come over and sit and sew. It was a treat I very much needed; aren't friends great? Monday evening Karl, Ashley, Frank and I got to see our long time friends, April & Ronnie Baxter. April is living her dream as a horse woman and it was fun watching her compete with her horse Tia at the National Andalucian show in Ft. Worth. The last few years we've only seen them once a year as they are Texans who live in Kentucky now. We hope to get together more often in 2010. We're heading out on new adventures a bit ahead of schedule as an opportunity presented its self and we jumped onto the rv bandwagon. This is something Karl has talked about for a long time and I'm along for the ride.

We left home on Thurs. for the maiden voyage in the new (to us) RV. First we went to Midland. I thought we were heading further west but plans changed as they so often do. Last night and tonight we're in Austin. It's an ongoing project for me to be more flexible. My disappointment is tempered by time with Karlie and seeing Elle, our beautiful little niece from Mexico City.

Finally, Happy Anniversary to Ashley & Frank. If you look at her blog you can see some of mine and her creations from 2004. Her wedding dress was one of my finest creations and it was a beautiful and happy day. The sun has come out and I'm hoping for a good weekend.

It's About Time

2009-10-08T21:54:00.005-05:00

I am fortunate to have a wonderful group of fiber art friends who I meet with once a month. For me this has been an incredible growth experience since we started last year. That's not to mention the laughs, nurturing and fantastic food. It is always a highlight of my month.

Back in the summer someone (I plead the 5th) suggested that we do a book round robin and after lots of discussion and laying out of guidelines, we're off and running. Actually, everyone else got a head start on me as I missed the first pass along date while I was down in Austin in my Grammy roll. Now I am catching up.

My book is in a box , portfolio style, as an homage to the earliest books. My page pictured above has scraps of threads to represent fragments of memories and rusty metal as a reminder of the effect of nature on what man has created. The cloud photo was made at Desert View Tower on the south rim of the Grand Canyon. I can't imagine how any one could be in that place and not feel a sense of awe while pondering time beyond human understanding.

My title "It's About Time" comes from a phrase I often say to myself as a sort of admonishment or Ah ha - as in "you finally get it". I am at a point in life where I have many more ideas than I will ever have time to create. I am thankful for that - heaven forbid running out of ideas. I remind myself daily to use my time wisely. The reminders don't always work but I keep trying and my goal is that of Erma Bombeck to say in the end, "I used up every thing you gave me".

Time can have many different meanings for different people and I look forward to seeing each interpretation when this book comes back to me in early 2010. It will be fun & exciting to see what everyone does with each theme. I know this group will use the time well.

On a different note, we learned last night of the unexpected passing of a family member. He was a father, grandfather, uncle and friend. In an instant a life ends. Everyone left behind is changed.

Make every minute count.

the girl effect

2009-10-05T22:12:00.003-05:00

I just became a facebook fan of the girl effect. It's a tiny step but I encourage everyone to join this effort to fight poverty and injustice around the world.

I am a daughter; I have a daughter; now I have a grand daughter. We are among the rich of the world. Now each of us can lend a helping hand. Please join me and tell your friends too.

Anniversary

2009-10-04T16:08:00.008-05:00

I posted a flower image on Oct. 4, 2008, as I started this blog. Here is another on my one year blogiversary as my fascination and love of flowers continues to grow. This is post #76. I still have much to learn about the process and world of blogs but I have very much enjoyed the experience and hope to keep it going, growing and improving. Thank you for reading and sharing your comments, encouragement and friendships.

I set out to blog about my art. While I've done some of that, I've also spent a good bit of time talking about family and life. It is pretty nearly impossible for me to seperate the 3. I hope that hasn't discouraged readers and possibly encouraged some to fit art into their busy lives, "if she can do it so can I".

It isn't lost on me that I have a strong tendency to wander as I tell stories; I've long been teased for that evidence of ADD. Is it an excuse to say I do it most about things that excite me? I've found that blogging has caused me to look for things that create excitement. In turn some of these things have become part of my art.

It has been an exciting year so the subjects of my posts have been varied. Obviously becoming a grandmother was #1 on the excitement list. Getting my art work into shows again (after many years of avoiding the process); working collaboratively with others; and shairng the highs and lows of family time are all on the list.

I have absolutely NO regrets for focusing on Karlie. I feel so blessed that she is in my life. She is amazing. She is teaching me new things every day. She renews my faith in the future and gives me hope. As she begins to visually focus and take in her new world my appreciation for the gifts and wonders of nature are renewed as is my excited anticipation at sharing them with her.

FOCUS will continue to be a constant challenge for me. I am making it my mantra for the year ahead. There will still be variety here; I won't be myopic but rather I will work on patiently taking in each experience, possibility and blessing as it presents itself. Hopefully I will be able to express all this in my art and share it in this blog. I am wishing for rampant creativity for everyone along with peace and love.

Notes from Austin

2009-09-28T13:08:00.003-05:00

The rain and hint of fall gave way to sunshine and heat once again. The mosquitoes are pretty bad so we're still mostly inside. While it was cool I did make a great stew & cornbread (I mentioned creative cooking last post).

I didn't get pictures of that as meal time for big people seems to coinside with fussy time for our little miss.

When not cuddling I've been crocheting. The hat and sweater are a bit big now so hopefully they will be just right for winter. I think I'll run out and use my Hobby Lobby coupon for more yarn.

Happy creating.

An Irrestible Invitation

2009-09-23T22:37:00.006-05:00

I've run off to Austin to be with Karlie and her mommy while Dad is out of town. It was an opportunity I couldn't resist. She is changing so quickly and knowing they may move away soon makes every chance to be with her extra special.

I'll be excited to see how much she's grown when we go to the Dr. on Friday. There's a big scare here about the flu and it even made the national news this evening; that and the rain will mostly keep us close to home. If I can find the right fabric I'll make curtain for the nursery while I'm here. I also brought a bag of silk swatches to be trimmed for scarves and bags. That's a good project when I'm not snuggling the little princess or taking pictures or crocheting caps. The weather change also makes me want to cook so I may express some creativity in the kitchen.

Yesterday Ashley came and photographed several of my quilts and other work. I sent off an entry to Art Quilt Elements and an application for a sale here in Austin in Dec. Ashley and I applied to that together to share a booth - her jewelry and my bags and scarves. Now to wait with fingers crossed and get busy sewing.

Balancing in the wind

2009-09-22T11:04:00.004-05:00

I did this canvas last week at Studio Group. I'd missed the Aug. meeting as I was in Austin when Karlie came so I was playing catchup and got to see what most of the others had done. They are to be developed further but for now it was just plain fun to play Jackson Pollock and throw paint hither and yonder.

My life has been a bit like that lately. I hope I've been missed in blogland these last 2 weeks. I've been hobbling with a bum knee from falling (throwing myself over a stack of wood in the dark). Thankfully, I'm on the mend and there have been good things too. We traveled to Gruene and the Texas hill country with Ashley & Frank. We laughed with friends and family and spent a day of hugs and kisses with Karlie. K & I came home to a motor home presenting itself as a deal not to be missed (this was"supposed" to be "Later" in life) so we started the plan & work toward selling the house when the market gets better (hopefully next year). All that and we got rain and a hint of change toward fall and away from the horrid heat of summer.......

quiet a whirlwind and come to think of it this canvas could be a reminder to work on balancing in the winds of life.

From Here to There

2009-09-08T16:43:00.006-05:00

As I said earlier today I'm sorting fabrics by categories. Small bits of silks and poly sheers go into my new fabric. Ashley said I should show what I do. I call this "reconstructed" fabric. It's mostly done with the Embellisher and then free motion quilted.

One of the finished products I make is a purse/pouch similar to the pattern Mellie Testa published in Quilting Arts magazine last year. I do also use it for postcards and as elements in quilts.

Now back to sorting.

Abundance of Riches & Retro Cuteness

2009-09-08T11:28:00.005-05:00

If it's the day after Labor Day, it must be fall. I just wish it felt a bit more so. I stayed home over the long weekend while Karl went off hunting in East Texas with Elliott and friends and then detoured south to visit Karlie. He is definitely a smitten Grandfather.

I mostly made small steps toward new projects. Sept. is always like a new year for me so it's time to get busy from the summer lull. I broke down and got on Facebook (easier than I expected); that's where I'll see the most recent pics of Karlie and keep up with other family members too. Please be my friend if you're there.

Aren't these silk luscious? I am blessed with a angel at a decorating store who saves swatchbooks for me. These work since many of my projects are small and I get a huge variety at a tiny fraction of the cost of yardage. I take them apart during tv time so I discount that labor. Now I'm putting together "project" boxes - some for scarves with my dyed fabrics; a bullseye and a white quilt in my head; and the tinyest bits for collaged fabric. I also got in on Susan Lenz's felt give away that will be part of the collages.

I took time out for dinner with a girlfriend on Sat. evening and the opening of Cross Timbers Gallery. It is a great addition to our newest and nearest shopping area. They also do an inspiring studio tour in Nov. On Sunday I celebrated family with Ashley & Frank at the Cervantez reunion. Thanks guys, it was fun and, of course, the food was fabulous.

How is this for cuteness? The pattern is old enough that my mother probably used it and now it's a reissue. I made 2 pairs from a felted wool sweather; one is for Karlie and one for Lu's Meg. I hope they wear them with a smile.