spread your wings

a beautiful mess

2012-02-26T07:39:00.004-08:00

L -Nikon / T- iphone

I feel like a mess - and not a very beautiful one. I have a wedding to plan and I can't seem to get a good handle on it. Taylor, the wonderfully creative and level-headed one, is helping me narrow down choices. We collaborated last weekend when she was home and came up with some great ideas... and then she invited me on Pinterest... What a wonderful, although very addicting, way to gather ideas in one place. There are so many creative ideas out there, so many beautiful "real" weddings to look at. They're all picture perfect - with the beautiful brides and handsome grooms - every detail pulled together to perfection. I just don't feel like I can have a wedding like that. I mean I'm in my 50s! Plus we don't want to be frivolous with our money - I'd rather spend money on going on a trip that will create life long memories - and last longer than a 2 hours. Yet I do want something special - I see it in my head .
I want a simple outdoor wedding in the woods - in the autumn of course - with a few friends and family. With ribbon streamers and tiny lights all about. On the surface that sounds easy but then you have to consider SO many things. Like how do you get lights in the woods when you don't have electricity and can't burn candles.....?
I need a wedding planner. Taylor be my wedding planner please.

to stay warm / snuggle

2012-02-24T12:35:00.003-08:00

L - iphone / T - Nikon

Seems the only photos we have lately is either knitting, skies, dogs, or cats. That's sad. We need to get out more.
I was excited that this year I finally learned how to knit. I can make myself cute scarves and hats to stay warm - and I made several. Yet, I never even got a chance to wear them. I even made a scarf and hat for Keith's birthday in March. Maybe we'll still find a place visit in the snow before winter truly turns to spring.
I love this photo Taylor took of Daisy and Bunny. She is so happy that they like to snuggle in the same bed. It's so cute to see them both sleeping there together.

(did I ever even tell you my fiance's name? - it's Keith ;)

purple / yellow

2012-02-21T19:47:00.005-08:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

No baby in my slice so I won't be making the next King Cake. / i'm getting the hang of the new stitch i learned this weekend. thanks mom.

not even an hour apart

2012-02-16T08:39:00.004-08:00

L- iphone / T - iphone

Less than an hour apart and we sent each other a phone pic of the sky we were seeing. It was a beautiful, and warm, day and I was stuck inside at work in Atlanta, she was enjoying the afternoon at the Athens dog park with Daisy. What did your day look like?

celebrations of love

2012-02-14T14:25:00.002-08:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

A special Valentine delivery for me and a surprise party for Taylor.
I'm not a girl who cares for red roses that much but he knows I like spring tulips. He's smart to remember.
Taylor turned 22 on the 12th, Sunday. But she had to work and couldn't come home. I felt kinda sad when she called me Saturday and said she was making her own birthday cupcakes and was going to take them to work for her birthday. I was glad that her co-workers helped her celebrate her special day with a surprise cake as well. / i have the best co-workers ever.
I hope you have enjoyed a day filled with sweet surprises - kisses and flowers too.

historical fiction / fairytales

2012-02-03T18:36:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

New reading - a book I received at Christmas - a great white elephant score. I thought it was interesting that I ended up with this book. I love historical fiction, especially when it's about an artist. What about you - what type of reading do you enjoy? / my children's lit reading list - grimm's fairy tales, frankenstein and dracula to name a few. should be fun.

knit / dice

2012-02-02T16:39:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

This scarf is slow going. But the weather is so warm I won't be needing it anytime soon it doesn't look like. / homemade leftover fish tacos - taqueria del sol ain't got nothin' on me.

spring / winter

2012-02-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

daisy saw her shadow.

and so did the famous Punxsutawney Phil- saying we'll have 6 more weeks of winter. That's fine with me - doesn't seem like we've had one week of real winter here in the south. The birds have been singing like it's spring time. And I've seen spring flowers popping up. So I'm not so sure mr. groundhog is correct this time - after all he's only had a 39% accuracy rate. What do you think?

essential / fundamental

2012-01-28T17:08:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

I had a lot of work to do in the studio but what was most essential today was to get outside, exercise and soak in some sun. So I went to my favorite place - Big Trees Forest. / my dog and chick-fil-a - just about all i need.

rainy day /grey skies

2012-01-26T17:00:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T- iphone

Rain, sun, rain, sun, rain - the week so far. / today is a “come now sleep" sort of day.

morning rays / afternoon flare

2012-01-25T15:54:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

I can't tell you how happy I was to see the sun this morning. I feel like it's been weeks since I've seen any more than just a brief "peeking out". It was even warm enough for me to enjoy lunch outdoors - a much needed dose of vitamin D. / the beautiful weather brings everybody (and their dogs) to the park. i was so thankful to see the sun.

filled / empty

2012-01-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

This pairing excites me like the ones we used to post.
We've fallen short lately and can't seem to get back on track with the blogging. But we certainly can't quit now. We have to at least carry on until she graduates. Our follow-through has been poor and it's a little disappointing, but I'm glad we created this blog 4 years ago when she went off to college. Several years from now we will enjoy looking back at the photos and few words -memories of what our life held during those years. But one of the best things about it has been the friendships I have made here in blogging land. There's a hand full of you that have stuck by - who encourage me to continue - and I appreciate you.
Anyway, I for one am excited to see this pairing.

We have had such a strange winter so far. Mild and very wet. I decided to pretend it was cold and snowy outside instead of 60 and rainy. So I made a fire and baked some pumpkin bread. / dreary wet monday morning on the way to class

on the ground / in the air

2012-01-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

T- iphone / T- iphone

Just some recent photos that Taylor shared with me from her trip to Chicago at the beginning of the year.

reflections on the ground and in the air - Chicago, IL

hello / friends

2012-01-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T -iphone

Sorry I have been so absent. I hope you will forgive me.

(I really like this photo Taylor sent me. I love the light; the way her new dog seems to be making friends with her cat; and seeing the portrait she did this summer in the background)

home / away

2012-01-10T17:17:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T -iphone

Knitting has been an obsession around our house - ever since Christmas when my 10 year old niece taught us all how to knit. She was such a great teacher she had me, my brother, Taylor, my sister-in-law, and my fiance all knitting a scarf. It was my brother who put us all to shame though. He has already completed 3 scarves and 2 hats! Taylor is knitting her second scarf. I, however, just finished my first one - and it's not so pretty. I'll keep trying. / chicago was fun but i was glad to get back home - to see miss daisy and my bunny, and to get back in the swing of things.
stay away from lonely places - ron terada exhibit at the contemporary museum in chicago.
lines from a willie nelson song
Remember that sorrow prospers
In a heart that never smiles
So stay away from lonely places for awhile

organize / maintain

2012-01-07T10:11:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

Do you make New Year's resolutions? I don't formally make them, but I do think about the things that I would like to change or improve over the next year.
This next year is going to be a year of big changes. Taylor will be graduating from college and I will be getting married. What exciting new changes, but these two things are going to bring much change in our household. One thing that I need to start working on immediately is organization. Does anyone know of a great book or tips on getting a household organized for good? I've seen and read several books on the subject but there's certainly magic solution to it I don't think. One tip I read recently seems a good place to start. "Always subtract before you add."- Make a rule for yourself that you will not add a new commitment until you either finish or eliminate a prior commitment and, similarly, no new books or magazines until reading and or giving away unread books; and purchases - for every new article of clothing, at least two rarely worn articles will be put in the give-away bag.
it's been an awesome holiday break but i have to say i am ready to get back at it. my fortune on new year's eve couldn't have been more appropriate - "you will obtain your goal if you maintain your course." i love this. i immediately put the little slip of paper with my fortune on it in my wallet. but just the other day i went to take my debit card out and the wind blew my fortune away. : [ can't let my goal slip away in the wind.

Happy New Year to all

2012-01-02T15:48:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T - Nikon

If it didn’t Bring you Joy, 
Just Leave it Behind.

Let’s Ring in the New Year 
With Good Things in Mind.

Let Every Bad Memory Go 
That Brought Heartache and Pain.

And let’s Turn a New Leaf 
With the Smell of New Rain.

Let’s Forget Past Mistakes 
Making Amends for This Year.

Sending You These Greetings
 To Bring you Hope and Cheer

Happy New Year!

-Author Unknown

warm / cuddle

2011-12-16T19:03:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone sp

The Christmas tree is blocking her favorite afternoon sun spot. / my cuddle buddy. bunny has recently decided she has to be right up next to me in order to sleep.

adorn / ornament

2011-12-15T18:21:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

I've had this tree topper for many years. It's not your typical angel, but I love her - I see her as a caregiver to nature and animals. Do you put a star or angel on the top of your tree - or something completely unique? / 60 individual petals - 12 flowers - finished ornament (photo put together with picstitch app). the process was therapeutic as a break from studying for finals and i love the results.

rested / ready

2011-12-10T14:36:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / L - iphone

A nap before the party and then making fancy. I feel more myself wearing boots and jeans, but I guess every once it's nice to be elegant. The annual company Christmas party is about the only time I pull out the jewels and show a little skin. Now I'm ready to be wined and dined and maybe even be twirled around a bit.
I hope your holiday festivities are fun this year.

share / savor

2011-12-07T20:33:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

I'm enjoying my first cup of Russian Tea of the season a little late this year. I usually make up a batch at Thanksgiving and a second batch to share. Do you have a special treat you like to share at Christmas time? i made sweet potato biscuits just because they sounded good. they were.

glisten / sparkle

2011-12-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / L - iphone

"...
And the dream is still alive
From that first December morning
And it always will survive
As long as we can see
That the dreams we find in life
Are the dreams we tend to seek
And Christmas has its promises to keep
..."

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Promises to Keep

Trans-Siberian Orchestra was a thrill of music, story, lights and sound! The nearly three hour show was mesmerizing . The story was enchanting, the light show and pyrotechnics were over the top. A finale like I've never seen anywhere. See them if you get a chance - I don't think you will be disappointed.

garland / lights

2011-12-05T18:29:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T- iphone

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ~Norman Vincent Peale
i love decorating for the holidays, but decided against bringing my two bucket-loads of christmas cheer back with me after thanksgiving. i'm sort of regretting my scrooge-y decision. i had thought i wouldn't have long enough to enjoy them for all the effort it would take. but now seeing as i will be here til the 23rd because of work i'm sad i don't have them. i did pick up a string of $5 lights at the craft store when i was picking up DIY-christmas gift supplies. i love the way they make my room look and i'm a little bit less humbug now!

take time /put your feet up

2011-12-04T19:12:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

I guess we both had that kind of weekend. Busy, busy, busy but took time to put our feet up, enjoy some Christmas music and the lights we'd hung. Hope you're taking time to savor some moments of Christmas joy.

precious memories / warm heart

2011-12-03T18:42:00.000-08:00

top photo of me and my girl friends taken by my brother / L - Nikon

My fiance (sounds so strange to me) and I went to see Trans-Siberain Orchestra perform on their Winter Tour. It was truly amazing.
From the powerful sound of this group to the simple, precious sound of friends of 60 years singing "Blessed Be the Tie that Binds" - it has been a wonderful start to the holidays.

My parents had a Christmas party today with a group of friends (about 8 couples) they have known for about 60 years. My brother and I helped out. But we were the ones blessed. This group of friends took care of us when we were babies, our families camped together when we were children - even after moving to different parts of the city they've joined hands in prayer every year at Christmas time throughout the years. The group, sadly, is getting smaller as husbands and wives have passed on. Now their children, my friends, bring the widowed parent to the party and this year I got to see a few of the girls. It was such a great time of fellowship and good food and lots of laughing.
Later, as I relaxed at home, enjoying some of the hor'derves I had missed and a hot cup of coffee I thought back and smiled inside at how funny they were - poking fun at their age, or at the stories that they retold but also smiled to think of this bond so strong - it truly warmed my heart.

This song that we all sang was the perfect ending to a perfect time together.

Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.

Before our Father's throne
We pour our ardent pray'rs;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims, are one,
Our comforts and our cares.

We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.

When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart,
And hope to meet again.

wrapped up / in a box

2011-12-01T16:33:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / L - iphone

How did it get so late so soon? Its night before its afternoon. December is here before its June. My goodness how the time has flewn. How did it get so late so soon? - Dr. Seuss

heart / home

2011-11-24T07:27:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T -Nikon

May you heart be wreathed in happiness, your home be wreathed in smiles.

I am so thankful for the friendships I have made here in the internet world. These relationships are meaningful for me and I want to wish each and every one of you a very blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!

Leslye

awaiting / whats ahead

2011-11-23T20:02:00.000-08:00

L-Nikon / T - iphone

So grateful to have my daughter home - seeing her was the bright spot in my day./ i'm coming for you atlanta... thanksgiving

"Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow." ~Edward Sandford Martin

twinkle / sparkle

2011-11-20T20:01:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / L - Nikon

Well it's official now - the holidays are here upon us... and there is a ring on my hand.

Saturday was the opening night of the Atlanta Botanical Gardens Holiday Lights - it was my birthday too. So he took me on stroll around the gardens all aglow with red, blue, pink and green. The night air was pleasant but cool enough to enjoy the warmth of a fire while we roasted marshmallows. The weekend ended with a ring on my hand. : ) I'd say the holidays are off to a great start. Hope yours are as well.

(the ring is so much prettier in person than I was able to photograph it)

at home / and away

2011-11-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - disposable camera

falling leaves
hide the path
so quietly
~John Bailey, "Autumn,"

a good path / a good trail

2011-11-13T15:47:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T- iphone

What a wonderful weekend it's been. The long weekend started with a nice visit with my friend Judy on Thursday. We enjoyed Chocolate Berry Earl Grey tea (with vanilla froth) and apple dumplings by the fire and talked about different things. She left me with a bowl full of wonderful colored pottery pieces she made that I can incorporate into my metal work - they inspire me so much. I was glad to have a day off on Friday so I could experiment with them - they are the perfect accent to my feather necklaces and a new butterfly necklace I am working on, possibly some rings. Then I was surprised with a life changing question in the woods Friday afternoon and a wonderful Italian dinner to follow. Saturday I had fun teaching my brother how to make a ring - he was very good at it (as expected). He enjoyed it so much that he made 3 rings during the weekend and felt proud of his accomplishment. It was a joy-filled weekend. I hope your weekend was splendid as well. / so happy. it's been too long since i've been in a saddle. my small group from church went horseback riding up near helen, ga (i'd never been to helen - it's a cute little town) this afternoon and the weather could not have been more ideal - and the ride was awesome. i'm back on my goal of owning a horse one day. i will be so happy.

inspired / inventive

2011-11-12T16:59:00.001-08:00

L - Nikon / T- iphone

Inspired by a question that was posed to me yesterday I created this ring. I guess it's pretty obvious what the question was... but if you're wondering, my answer was yes. It's a very exciting thing, but also a somewhat scary change for me. I've known Keith for several years as a very close friend but not until recently did the bond become stronger and I think he sensed that I felt ready to make a more permanent life together. Letting go of my fears of change and looking at the whole instead picking at the little bits and pieces, I see that change can be good. And more importantly that love is really what matters. / i decided to be a little creative with my pizza toppings tonight. butternut squash, carmelized onions and goat cheese - strange... different... yet very good.

Will I design and create our wedding rings or go a more traditional route? I just don't know. There are no real plans just yet so I have no details to share but it's fun to think I can make my own rings if I wanted to.

snuggle bunny / crazy bunny

2011-11-08T20:45:00.000-08:00

T- iphone / T-iphone

this is the sweetest little bunny. when it's not busy at work I just walk around with him. i'm so lucky. then i go home to a crazy kitty, named bunny, riding my bike. i love her.

not rain / not snow

2011-11-07T16:47:00.000-08:00

L- Nikon / T iphone

It's not the snow and it's not the rain that has kept us away. In fact, we've had an absolutely gorgeous Autumn season here in the south. The leaves are just at their peak this week and it's so frustrating to me that I don't have anything to show of it's beauty. I take in it's the gorgeous display of color in mind's eye every single day and it astounds me with it's beauty - blazing in the morning light and glowing in the evening light. I have an incredible 360 view from my office on the 18th floor and I'm amazed daily at the changing mosaic of color in the landscape. Believe me, there have been many clicks in my mind, fingers framing in the photo, eyes zooming in to details yet I have nothing to show - I wish I did. I wish I did.

Nov 1 / Gratitude

2011-11-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / L - iphone

Happy November! And the holiday season begins...
Beginning on this first day of November, I will be posting, along with many other blogger and flickr folks, a month long celebration of all I have to be grateful for. Seems fitting to start with HOME. Even more specifically, my physical HOUSE. I am so thankful to have a beautiful, albeit small, house that is structurally sound and protects and keeps me warm and safe from the environment. My dad helped build this house and it has many special touches that make it just perfect for my daughter and me - now just me. It is situated amongst evergreens and hardwoods in such a way that I feel I am the only one around. I love my house... it is home.

P.S. The remaining gratitude series will be on my autumnsun blog.

pink noses/ blue eyes

2011-10-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

T- iphone

"please! take me home with you. i will love you forever."

Taylor has a job now. Yay! for her - yay for me. She is a "pet placement counselor". It's a job that she will enjoy this last year of college - allowing her flexibility with a little spending money. I think she likes it a lot - how could she not when she gets to play with these sweet little guys.
This is the company's mission statement that she had to recite at training:
"We are dedicated to matching the right pet with the right customer and meeting the needs of both. To our customers who already have pets, we are dedicated to enhancing their knowledge and enjoyment of the human-animal bond."
I think she'll be good at her job.

new product / new skill

2011-10-06T16:48:00.000-07:00

L- Nikon/ T- from Oma

"Travel light, live light, spread the light , be the light." - Yogi tea tab

Delicious tea and some new crackers from Trader Joes. You should try them - Raisin Rosemary Crisps are really good with brie. Or goat cheese topped with chopped pecans. Yum!
opa is so cute makin' brooms! (look he even matches). oma sent some pictures from their week of learning at John C Campbell Folk school - this was my favorite.

Indian Summer

2011-10-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T- iphone selfie

Not a true Indian Summer I know (we haven't had our first frost) but... October in Atlanta - some days are cool - wanting a fire in the fireplace kind of cool, and some days are hot like summer - needing the air-conditioner back on kind of hot.

spring into fall

2011-09-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / L - Nikon

"Departing summer hath assumed
 An aspect tenderly illumed, 
The gentlest look of spring; 
That calls from yonder leafy shade 
Unfaded, yet prepared to fade, 
A timely carolling".
 - William Wordsworth, September

The freshness of spring is no more and green of summer has faded but a beauty remains like no other - autumn.

daydreaming / dreamy sleep

2011-09-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

...and Autumn is officially here. My favorite time of the year. I get so anxious for the season to begin, with it's cooler temperatures and bluer skies, and to walk amongst the crunching of leaves... to wrap in blankets, to eat chili and drink hot teas... to marvel at the colors on every leaf, to roast marshmallows and warm my feet(s).

what do you look forward to in the coming of autumn?

to work / to class

2011-09-21T12:44:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

First autumn color was on my windshield this morning, but I am wondering where did September go? / there's one good thing about rainy days - duck boots

make ready / get ready

2011-09-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T- iphone

“Failing to prepare is like preparing to fail.”
- John R. Wooden

from where i stand / from where i sit

2011-09-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

no words today. a break in the busy busy day

words / notes

2011-09-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

It's good when packages contain things we need (jewelry supplies for me and school books for her) but it's always more fun when they contain something we want - books for me and records for her.
I ordered these random books based on blog mentions or amazon recommendations. I'll let you know if they're any good. Do you have any good books to recommend? I'm always looking for a next good read. / i was excited when the UPS man came to my door this time - all of my text books had already been delivered so i knew this had to be the records i ordered. yah!

spot of a heart / heart of a spot

2011-08-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - iphone

I know it's really nowhere near to being autumn here in Georgia even though the poplar leaves have started to turn and fall. But if you sit out in the early morning or late afternoon however, you can pretend that it is - the temperatures are quite nice at that time. / sorry i can't help taking photos of her. i'm like a mother with a fat photo book of her children (except they're all on my iphone). she doesn't look very comfortable but she likes it here.

rays / light

2011-08-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

"The sky is the daily bread of the eyes." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

This week the sky's have been brilliantly painted and the mornings have been pleasantly cool. Seems no matter how hot it's been and what day school starts there is always a bit of fall in the air the first day of school. This week was no different. Happy back-to-school for those teaching and learning.

Taylor got an iphone and I think she's going to be more prone to sending instagram photos than anything else so I may change the format here to accommodate.

full circle / transformation

2011-08-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - phone pic

What's old is new again. So many things are coming full circle these days. The film cameras, lps and the record players, vintage style for home decorating and clothing, back to basics, etc.

Sometimes as children become teens we think what happened to my sweet child. But they seem to come back around too. We as parents, worry when our children go through many changes while growing up and spreading their wings. My daughter has never really caused me much heartache or worry but we all know children aren't perfect and I have to admit there have been some periods where she kept me up at night - literally. But this summer of her 21st year I am aware that she has become a mature young woman in her attitude and behavior; and I might add, a truly delightful one. This summer with her has been pure joy for me and she seems to have felt the same. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for her as she finishes her senior year in college and how she will use her many talents.

There is a scripture I always hung on to through the bumpy patches.

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6

Her newest creation of the butterfly seems perfectly fitting. She has developed into a beauty.

“How does one become a butterfly” she asked pensively “You must want to fly so much you are willing to give up being a caterpillar.” “You mean die?” “Yes and no,” he answered. “What looks like you will die, but what’s really you will still live” —–From Hope For The Flowers

This really has been one of the most fulfilling summers I’ve had in a very long time. Being back in Atlanta and surrounded by the strength and love of my family throughout the past three months has really grounded me and made me realize the characteristics and traits that I want to further develop in my final year of school. Always striving to be productive, making sure I am resourceful in my endeavors, and being appreciative and respectful (essentially treating others as I would want to be treated) of those around me are all things that I have worked on during my time here. Of course I’m not insinuating that I wasn’t any of these things before! I was raised and taught by them! I’ve been immersed in an unbelievably caring and uplifting environment for my entire life. But I believe that I have grown and matured an immeasurable amount – that, I am very pleased with and proud of. This summer will provide a wonderful foundation for my last year at UGA and has shed a very nice light on the things I need to focus on.

me / her

2011-08-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

T - Nikon / L - Nikon

I have lovely blue hydrangeas for hair and a orange butterfly flutters by. She has hair of feathers and a bluebird perches high.

I sit and watch as she draws - she doesn't hesitate with her stroke. She's confident with every mark - precise with the placement of her ink. I am in awe - amazed at her talent. But more than anything it is her enthusiasm and delight that brings me such happiness. When she sets her mind to something and has a vision, nothing will stop her. These portraits were started on Saturday and tonight, as I write this, both of them are complete. I wish I had just half the creative energy she's had this summer.

picked / cleaned

2011-08-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon

...and eaten
This evening I picked a few before the birds ate them. They’re good straight from the tree but next I think I'll try them with chocolate.

Chocolate Covered Figs

• 4 whole fresh California figs with stems
• Fine sea salt; as needed
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Wash and dry figs; dust lightly with salt. Set aside. Measure chocolate chips into microwavable bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds; stir. Microwave for 30 seconds more and stir until chocolate is completely melted.  Holding fig by stem, dip in melted chocolate and set on wax paper-lined tray. Sprinkle with sea salt. Let stand until chocolate is set.  Serves: 4

iced / nice

2011-07-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

Whew, it's hot. Today T and I went to Athens to do a little clean up and decorating to her apartment. She hasn't been there all summer and it was a bit stuffy and hot inside but it didn't slow her down any. While she worked, I had my mind on that sample of iced coffee I got at Starbucks yesterday.
She's been so incredibly productive this summer. During her time home she has organized my basement (not a small task - in fact a huge task), made a new mannequin and decoupaged it, painted shelves, created a upholstered headboard for her bed, and after she organized my mom's fabric closet she found some fabrics that inspired her so she quilted her very first piece and made a pillow cover out of it. In addition, she shopped for and cooked the meals for our weekly meal with my parents all summer long. And she told me today that, before she goes back in a couple of weeks, she plans to sketch out the portraits she has wanted to paint of me, my mom and her (each separate paintings of us at age 20). I'm so very proud of her. So proud that she chose to make good use of her summer. And you know what? I think she is proud too - she told me today that it's been the best summer. Now that's a nice thing to hear.

lush / plush

2011-07-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

T - Nikon / L - Nikon

lush fresh juiciness of blackberries and plush green softness of moss - these are the luxuries of summer.

"Live in each season as it passes: breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit."
– Henry David Thoreau

thrill / chill

2011-07-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - phone

There is no way the summer is almost over, right? Wrong. I can’t believe it’s flown by so quickly.. Our last post on June 30th seems so long ago! But we have been very busy little bees all summer, whether we were taking short weekend trips (a relaxing getaway to Savannah at the onset of the break) or weeklong trips to the big city (one of our more recent travels to Chicago, a first time for both of us). In between, I’ve gotten to spend a lot of time with my families on both sides. I was able to go see my cousin graduate from high school in California and spend some quality time with my grandma, which I don't get very often and really enjoyed. We also spent just last weekend in Kentucky with my mom’s side of the family (and we had a record number of attendees, I might add!). Each vacation was very different- some action packed and others with more down time than anything else, but each one has been such a blessing in its own way and I have loved every second of all of them.

After all, It’s not always about the activities you do or how quickly you do them, it’s all about who you spend your time with and allowing yourself to enjoy the down time that you may not normally have.

I hope you are all having an exciting summer or at least a refreshing one.

refuge / retreat

2011-06-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

This little kitty was very shy - she wouldn't venture far from her safety zone, her refuge from the world of over-eager children wanting to play with her. Her brother was a little more accepting of the attention - even let Taylor pick him up. Taylor wanted to take both of them home with her. I hated to say no, but I had to. However she is going to try to place them in loving homes so they will be protected and loved. / i took this photo when i was in southern california a week ago. sad to say it's the only photo i took to speak of. this hotel room was my retreat - rather it was where i was stuck for lack of having a car (too long of a story). we had some good times and i have to admit there were some boring times. that's just the way it goes - summer has some of both.

Happy 1st day of Summer

2011-06-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - phone pic

Taylor is away in the great sunshine state of California on this first day of summer. She said it's been a little chilly there, but it's probably a nice change from the heat and humidity of Georgia. Before she left town she re-did her "live by the sun" banner and this summer she has definitely been living by the sun - tanning every day. I did that when I was her age too, but she is smarter than I was - she uses the appropriate sun screen.
Ah summertime! There is a care-free quality about it isn't there? - even when we work every day like the rest. There's the excitement for summer vacations. We are looking forward to our summer trip this year to Chicago. Where are you going this summer?

dignity / inelegant

2011-06-16T17:07:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - phone pic

In the language of flowers, the magnolia blossom is symbolic of dignity. But in this heat it's having a hard time living up to it's reputation. We've had little, to no, rain and the flowers are suffering. But it looks like we might get some needed rain this weekend. / bunny is hot and lazy in the non air-conditioned heat of my apartment - keeps her out of trouble.

"What dreadful hot weather we have! It keeps me in a continual state of inelegance."

-- Jane Austen

Find a place in the shade and breath in the summer scents. What's one of your favorite summer scents? The sweet fragrance of gardenias in the evening breeze is one of mine.

Enjoy the weekend!

fun / sun

2011-06-13T20:07:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - blackberry

A double dip dose of summer fun and sun.

healthy / healthful

2011-06-06T20:18:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - iphone

Taylor worked with me in my metalsmithing studio over the weekend. It was fun having her down there. She made herself a ring that says "bend don't break" and I snapped this phone pic while we chatted because I thought she looked so cute and summery in her little dress and hair all pulled up. She had a healthy glow to her skin after working landscape with her dad the past couple of days, but I don't think she was too happy about the t-shirt tan she got. She's pretty smart about using sun screen just like she's pretty smart about the foods she eats. "Ants on a log" is her idea of a great snack. Whereas I tend to go for the Snickers bar. What's your favorite type of snack?

splish / splash

2011-05-31T17:32:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - phone pic

"Spring being a tough act to follow, God created June." - Al Bernstein

It seems as though summer came early. The flowers are already wilting in the hot sun. But I for one enjoy the heat in the day and the cooler softer evenings that June so often has to offer. How's the weather in your part of the country? / it's not much of a view, but it's private - relaxing and quiet - and i love it. especially in this heat.

2nd cup / 2nd nap

2011-05-22T16:59:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

With a little time to spare this morning, I sat outside and enjoyed a second cup of coffee and read a little of my book before going off to my metalsmithing workshop. It was a 2 day workshop on soldering. And even though I know enough to get by, I figured there are always new tricks to learn - no matter how many classes I've taken. In fact, I learned several new tricks - one was how keep solder from flowing by using yellow ochre as a resist. I wonder what's something new you are learning this summer? / bunny misses kodi and it shows - look at this mopey little face. today i had great plans of spending the day at the pool but it was very short-lived because it was sooo hot. already 96º and it's only May. it was really relaxing however.

p.s. I hate that we have been so slack in posting here on our blog. With the end of the school year for Taylor and then a nice little vacation in Savannah we got very far behind. Forgive me for not visiting you - please don't think I'm not interested any more. I love reading your blogs but I have not been good about commenting. It makes me very happy when you continue to visit and comment on our blog so I feel badly for not doing the same.

gathered / arranged

2011-05-10T17:14:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

Just as she used to do when she was a child - she picked wildflowers for me and gave them to me for Mother's Day. The simplicity of this little arrangement brought a smile to my face better than any bought flowers could do.

then / now

2011-05-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

old photo album photo / Nikon

To my beautiful mother who means the world to me. Happy Mother's Day. I am so lucky to have you as my mother. -a lovely, caring, strong and virtuous woman in every sense of the word.

"Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever." -Anonymous

(my mother still holds my hand sometimes - a constant guide, a comforting touch, a friend)

Happy Mother's Day to all of you. I hope it was beautiful in every way.

for pleasure / for knowledge

2011-05-03T17:36:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - itouch

"Concentrate and nurture your mind with your best thoughts and great literature."

- 54 precious keys to happiness

(part of the series)

While I read to escape, she reads to absorb.

cute little journal from this etsy shop

Happy May Day!

2011-05-01T20:09:00.000-07:00

solo post - L , Nikon

Sing a song of spring on the first day of May.

"Let's twitter and tweet

Like the birdies in May

Get into the mood

And be merry today

Forget all your troubles and warble away

Do, re, mi, fa, so, la, ti, do

Oh!"

- Bambi soundtrack

I hope your day was beautiful and bright.

intricate / simple

2011-04-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

solo post - L, Nikon

"Trust that your intuition is your supreme inner intelligence." - 54 keys to happiness

No matter how much knowledge we gather, sometimes it's simple intuition that gives us the answer we need.

hope / faith

2011-04-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

" Sustain hope and faith." - 54 precious keys to happiness

I hope you all had a beautiful Easter Sunday. I was happy to have Taylor home for the weekend and to spend time with my brother and my parents as well. The weekend couldn't not have been more relaxing and enjoyable. This Easter Sunday was one of the prettiest I can remember so we spent most of the day outside -just sitting and talking, laughing and playing with the dogs. No Easter egg hunts but I did fix a basket with a few goodies for Taylor. I don't think one is ever too old for such things do you?

"Easter spells out beauty, the rare beauty of new life. " - S.D. Gordon

running / soaring

2011-04-17T18:12:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Canon

"Keep the child in you alive. " - 54 precious keys to happiness

(sorry for the repeat of the last one - it just seemed appropriate for these photos. After all, it is an important one and worth hearing again, right?)

Evee just turned 12 on April 6th. Pretty old for a dog but you'd never know it in the way she behaves. She still has puppy energy. I love to see her running like the wind, ears flapping, loving the warm sun and cool breezes of springtime. / with two weeks left of school and breezy weather, we decided it was a great day to fly a kite. unfortunately the dollar store two for one kites weren't all that reliable, but my friend has some sort of kite whispering abilities that made hers soar. i gave up and decided that all i could do was document, but i vow to get better soon, in the sun and freedom of summer.

peek / boo

2011-04-11T18:25:00.000-07:00

solo post, T - itouch

bunny is a funny cat with a lot of personality. i like playing games with her in the morning.

"Keep the child in you alive. " - 54 precious keys to happiness
(part of the series)

ruffled / rumpled

2011-04-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - itouch

"Regularly commune with and learn from nature." - 54 precious keys to happiness

(part of the series)

We can learn a lot from nature. But one thing I often think of is how plants follow the light; they grow and reach towards the sun. Without sunlight they wither. In our lives the "light" is love and peace and all things positive that help us reach our truest potential - these things give us meaning which brings happiness. On the contrary, negative feelings - bitterness and jealousy, etc, waste our energy and hinder our health and happiness.

"The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. " - Anne Frank

in the present / in the moment

2011-04-02T20:11:00.000-07:00

L - iphone / T - Nikon

"Live each moment now. " - 54 precious keys to happiness

(part of the series)

I really needed to be working in my studio today but the weather was so so gorgeous, I just couldn't bring myself to stay indoors. So I enjoyed the day in the sun - on my hammock - listening to the birds and feeling the hot sun and cool breeze on my skin, reading every once in a while but mostly just closing my eyes and listening. It was near heaven. Every now and then I would get up and walk around the yard taking photos of new spring growth or photograph my work to post later. Free from deadlines, chores, obligations and such... in my mind, it's how Sunday's should be spent if at all possible. ...I worked in the studio when the sun went down. I hope you enjoyed some beautiful moments this glorious Sunday./ we all have our obligations- the schools and the works of the world frequently distract us from enjoying the beauty around us and usually make us think we have very few minutes to set aside for ourselves. but i think it's really important to read the books that you relish, the ones that you are sad to finish. enjoy the beautiful weather while it's here. don't let the pressures of everyday life prevent you from enjoying the seconds you won't be able to get back.

a dip / a bend

2011-03-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - itouch

wordless Wednesday.

I'm happy with our two images of the day, but have no words to say.

caring / sharing

2011-03-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

"Practice and express kindness. " - 54 precious keys to happiness

Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

What You’ll Need:

- 1 cup softened butter

- ¾ c packed light brown sugar

- 1 c granulated sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 tbsp vanilla extract

- 3 ½ c flour

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 tsp baking soda

- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

- 1 package Double Stuff Oreos (or really any kind for that matter, i bought the cheap store brand [: )

What To Do:

- Preheat oven to 350

- In a large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until well combined; then beat in eggs and vanilla

- In a medium bowl, mix the flour, salt, and baking soda; slowly add to the wet mixture with the chocolate chips until just combined

- Form balls with a cookie scoop

- Place one ball on top of an Oreo cookie and one on the bottom; seal the edges together by pressing and cupping in hand until the Oreo is fully enclosed

- Place onto a greased baking sheet and bake for about ten minutes!

and voila, you have the best cookie known to man - now share them someone .

purple jelly beans / pink pom poms

2011-03-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

L - iphone

"Make keen use of your five senses and become a sensualist." - 54 precious keys to happiness

I was keenly aware of my five senses today as I sat outside and ate my lunch. I looked around at the colorful world around me - yellow tulips, pink pompom cherry blossoms, white and purple pansies, the green green grass and the beautiful blue sky - colors matching the sweet and chewy jelly beans I had as a snack. A bird sang and I couldn't place it's song. A cool breeze was blowing, that mixed with the warm sunshine, brought a tingle to my spine . It gusted at times whipping up a mist from the waterfalls that cooled my skin and blew around in swirling delight the soft pink petals of the cherry tree that landed in piles like pink snow. It was a delightful day to be outside.

What excited your senses today?

transform / evolve

2011-03-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

T - Nikon / L - Nikon

" Let your imagination blossom. "

- 54 precious keys to happiness

She transformed this common dictionary, found at the Goodwill store, into a beautiful piece of herself - herself, in more ways than one. The form is actually a replica of her that we created by wrapping her with paper tape. A long and tiring process that took us over 2 hours. But what a gorgeous day it was to be outdoors and spend time together. The final piece is so cool. I am always amazed at Taylor's thought process and what she comes up with - the placement of certain words and photos have meaning to her that I may not understand but I know that she does not just randomly create - it all has meaning. / spring is the time of year when everything starts to evolve- buds turn into blossoms and cold weather moods turn into lively ones when you don't want to do anything but be outdoors. my art has also been something that evolves- in style as well as in form. i've been experimenting with a lot of things outside the realm of photography and really enjoying it. it was fun to turn something as simple and common as a dictionary page into a work of art and i'm really happy with its process and evolution.

you can see more of the process here

rain / shine

2011-03-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

L - Nikon

"When it rains, look for the rainbows. "

- 54 precious keys to happiness

(part of the series)

sweet / sour

2011-03-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

T - Nikon / L - Nikon

"Make wise and careful choices." - 54 precious keys to happiness

Taylor's photo is posted on top tonight.

Home on spring break - a new dress - a glass of old tea bags plus a fresh one (a cup each day since she's been home)... and bored perhaps. This is what she gives me today. I love it somehow but I didn't know how on earth I would make this work with the '54 keys of happiness' postings I've been sharing on our blog. So I turned it into this. "Make careful choices" ...or things could turn sour. It's a far stretch maybe but it my head it works for the moment.

unfold / emerge

2011-03-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon

"Remember that order - preceding beauty - underlies all things."

- 54 precious keys to happiness

sustain

2011-03-07T19:08:00.000-08:00

L - scannography

“Sustain an optimistic and positive attitude. ”

- 54 precious keys to happiness

calm / patient

2011-03-06T19:41:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon

"Be patient with yourself and with others. "

- 54 precious keys to happiness

hope / faith

2011-03-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T - phone pic

" Sustain hope and faith. "

- 54 precious keys to happiness

catching light / catching dreams

2011-03-02T19:03:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Canon

"Be open to changing circumstances and remain flexible."

- 54 precious keys to happiness

I've missed my visits with you all but I've just been away on a fantastic trip to Arizona. Such a great place for inspiration, and a photographer's paradise. I came away with a few photos I really love but I have to say it wasn't without some frustration. I found I had a difficult time with the correct exposures. If you haven't seen some of my photos on flickr you might not realize where I have been. I visited the Grand Canyon, came within just feet of beautiful deer and elk, snowshoed deep in a birch tree forest, 4-wheeled in the desert at sunset, relaxed on the green lawn at Fountain Hills - home of the 4th largest water fountain in the world, and hiked the McDowell Sonoran Preserve without getting cactus burrs in my legs.

While I was in Arizona Taylor sent me this photo of her dream catcher and her camera pendant that hang in her rearview mirror - seemed fitting for what I was experiencing right there where dream catchers are made by the Navajo women. (the one she has was bought on our trip to Niagara Falls last August).

One thing that I was really looking forward to was a hot air balloon ride. It was scheduled for Thursday afternoon and the day was beautiful, warm and clear. The van filled with about 12 people drove to a large field, miles away from where we met, and then the balloon pilots sent small helium balloons up into the air to watch it's flight pattern and test the winds. We watched as the little white balloon went higher and higher and disappeared in the sky hoping that it was going to give them a positive reading. What they look for are winds no greater than 10mph, but they were at least 14 and gusting to 18mph - the flight had to be canceled. I was SO disappointed. I was so hoping for that ride in the sky across the desert at sunset. I tried hard not to pout like a baby. But... I found beauty regardless, walking on foot at the perfect time of evening I caught this wonderful light - and got my ultimate desert photo. I smiled with delight.

if you're interested in a few of the highlights of my trip you can see them here

impression / reflection

2011-02-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - ipod

"Accept what you cannot change. "

- from the 54 precious keys to happiness list in "Choosing Happiness" by Alexandra Stoddard

creative / stylish

2011-02-18T18:15:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

"Express your unique creative spirit."

This is one of the keys to happiness. * Lately I have been expressing my creative spirit with new ring designs inspired by nature. This one is inspired by the gently-flowing creek I hike beside on the weekends at Big Trees Forest. / I believe Taylor expresses herself creatively partly through the clothes she chooses to wear. Putting items from thrift stores together in such a unique way. I love it.

/ the weather was perfect this past weekend and that was a very nice birthday surprise [: so on sunday we decided to take advantage of it and go visit our tried and true abandoned house. we hadn't been back for over a year and it seemed like the perfect opportunity. everything was mostly as we had left it – there was something comforting about that. something very settling about the presence of something that hadn't changed in over a year when i know that i definitely have changed from year 20 to 21. this week we've had such warm temperature which makes me a little sad since i have so much studying to do. i would much rather be outside enjoying the sun! but spring will come soon and i'll get my chance.

*I found a book at the Goodwill store titled "Choosing Happiness" by Alexandra Stoddard. I just picked it up by chance and started flipping through because I saw highlighted quotes that I thought would be good for the heart garland I was making for Taylor. So I bought it. Later I found at the back of the book was a list of 54 keys to happiness. I liked them so much I decided to keep the book intact and to copy the key phrases in order to create 54 hearts - each one having one key to happiness - one a week for a year. Georgia B. suggested I do a series using the 54 Precious Keys to Happiness. I think that is a good idea. do you?

key / open door

2011-02-16T19:01:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

“Beauty is the mystery which enchants us...beauty is dynamic.” -Rollo May

single /bouquet

2011-02-15T17:21:00.000-08:00

L - Scannograpy / T - Nikon

"Whether people are fully conscious of this or not, they actually derive countenance and sustenance from the “atmosphere” of the things they live in and with. "

- Frank Lloyd Wright

Crazy synchronicity tonight.

A friend gave me these pretty purple tulips for Valentine's Day and when I got home tonight I noticed one of the flowers was bent. So instead of just throwing it away I decided to scan it for my scannography collection. I used some cracked textured paper for contrast. I love the grace this single flower has.

Taylor sent me a bunch of photos tonight from an abandoned house she had explored. To my amazement several of the photos where of the flowers I had given her for her birthday. I'm assuming she thought the contrast would be interesting. Or maybe she had seen the heart garland message I made that said "Realize that flowers create Paradise on earth." - one of the "54 Precious Keys to Happiness" I had found in an old book that I got at a Goodwill store. The author of the book suggested that to have flowers around the home bringing us happiness. I think that perhaps it does, don't you?

hearts / flowers

2011-02-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

L - solo post, iphone

I hope your day was filled with all that you love and special people to share it with.

baby girl / all grown up

2011-02-11T21:09:00.000-08:00

solo post - L

Happy 21st Birthday Taylor!

Here you are today,  all grown up and so lovely too. Such a warm and gentle person,  so special in every way.  Your childhood sparkle and charm still shines through today.  

My wish for you, on this very special day, is that all the dreams you hold within your heart  come true and bring you happiness from which you'll never part.

She is still every bit the light in my life as she was the minute she was born. It's hard to believe my baby girl is now an "adult".

wordless / wednesday

2011-02-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

L - iphone / T - phone pic

Snow is coming tonight. / bunny enjoying a sunny spot.

rouse / awaken - oh spring

2011-02-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Canon

"The February sunshine steeps your boughs and tints the buds and swells the leaves within."

- William C. Bryant

p.s. flower overlay is added to photo - not wall.

i walked / she sat

2011-01-30T16:08:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

The weekend was like a beautiful day in April.

"The sun was warm but the wind was chill.

You know how it is with an April day.

When the sun is out and the wind is still,

You're one month on in the middle of May.

But if you so much as dare to speak,

a cloud come over the sunlit arch,

And wind comes off a frozen peak,

And you're two months back in the middle of March."

- Robert Frost, Two Tramps in Mud Time, 1926

outdoor cat / indoor cat

2011-01-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

T - ipod touch / T - ipod touch

I was so surprised when I received these two images - one in the morning, one in the afternoon - yesterday in my text messages. Without intention, Taylor took these two images - color yet black and white none-the-less. Fitting for this week of no color don't you think?

I get a few more photos out of her now that she has the 4th generation ipod touch. Think I had intention when I gave it to her for Christmas? I did. : )

exciting / boring

2011-01-24T19:59:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

I received the most beautiful piece of art in the mail today. It's a Puffy Wall Heart with Birdie Love Bird and I am in love. This piece is beautifully crafted of porcelain. Now I just have to find the perfect place to hang it. Don't you just love etsy? I have to say I'm sort of addicted to shopping there. / i was pretty excited when i first got those packages from amazon. but then i remembered mom had ordered all my text books from there... not as excited anymore. but truthfully i do like my classes so far, i'm just saying this isn't exactly my idea of pleasure- reading books.

clever / smart

2011-01-23T18:30:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

Because I purchased TOMS shoes at Christmas, I got this clever direct mail piece in the mail the other day. It felt like a very personal "thank you". Directly from Blake himself, right? It said, "wear this bracelet in pride, and know we are all in this together." I'm happy to support the TOMS shoes One for One movement. / the prices of books are completely ridiculous these days. so i ordered mine from amazon - used. it's hard to justify buying them new when you can usually get completely fine used copies.

all i have to say is "don't let school get in the way of your education." - mark twain

white blanket / white veil

2011-01-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

"In winter we lead a more inward life. Our hearts are warm and cheery, like cottages under drifts..." - Henry David Thoreau

refreshed / thrilled

2011-01-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon (photos taken by friends)

Both of these are photos were taken by friends. I think it's interesting how evident the thrill of snow shows on our face.

The snow is still on the ground and for many those smiles are fading. For Atlanta to have a snow last almost a full week before melting I would say is a record, but I don't know that for a fact. Fact or not, most southerns are SO ready for it to be gone – but not me. I like it. Even today I felt refreshed to walk out in the woods, being careful of my step, hearing the crunch/squeak of the snow beneath my feet, letting the strong scent of pine mixed with brisk cold air fill my lungs as I walk the trails along the creek. But I know it's difficult for many people and for this I understand their delight to know that it will warm to a pleasant 50 degrees tomorrow and remain that way for all of next week. I know, even as thrilled as Taylor was to have it snow in Athens, she is ready for it to melt. It's probably not much fun walking to class being fearful that you will fall and embarrass yourself or worse - tear a hole in your favorite jeans.

ice / fire

2011-01-12T20:20:00.000-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

It was nice to see the sun this morning but the temperatures didn't rise much. I love this view - the morning sunlight casting blue shadows across the glistening snow and my favorite beech tree glowing golden in the background. I walked around the yard this morning with Evee. And she slid around - not being heavy enough to break through. That snow is covered in about a quarter inch of ice making it difficult to get around. You can't walk with a light touch - you have to be bold and firm and crunch right down.

Today I watched from my window as 3 young boys challenged each other to the farthest ride down the hill in my backyard. They worked that hill slick - taking them further and further. It was fun to watch. After they left I wanted to go try that hill myself... but I didn't. / the smell of the kerosene and the sound of spinning fire were really neat contrasts to the drips of the melting snow and the cold that nipped at our noses. 7 inches of snow got us 3 days off of school and it was a really nice break to have but now it's going to be extra hard to get back into the swing of things. i've had a nice time getting readjusted to being here but i'm definitely ready to get into this semester and see what it holds for me. let's just hope i don't bust it walking down the hill to my classes tomorrow.

snow day / snow day

2011-01-11T21:04:00.001-08:00

L - Nikon / T - Nikon

Everybody likes a snow day don't they? Well how about two or three? I, for one, enjoyed staying at home – a nice fire and good book, some more time in the studio and I'm good. Others would say they had cabin fever by the second day and might just go stir crazy by tomorrow. Two snow days in Atlanta is a lot and for school children there will be a third. When the mail is not delivered you know it must be bad right? With temperatures in the teens again tonight that ice on the roads is not improving.

I do have to admit it was nice when a friend came over today and took me out to eat at a Mexican restaurant, Starbucks and for a hike in my favorite woods - The Big Trees Forest. I felt alive out there. The scent of pine was strong and the air so refreshing. It really did me good. / three days off from school! i think that's a record in the south. we're missing the first days of our new semester but you don't hear me complaining. however i do have to say it's hard to hang out with people when you can't drive. a walk in to town for pizza proved treacherous. haha. and i'm too scared to sled on sheer ice. but days off from school... that's cool.

warm bread / warm chair

2011-01-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

solo post - L, Nikon

Today it is chilly outdoors – lots of wind and pending snow in the forecast. But inside it is toasty warm – the warmth of the fire, and the sunshine on the chair invited me to sit and read... but I had work to do. Not dreaded work like laundry or vacuuming, or even taking down Christmas, but finally a chance to get down in my studio and work. After a slice of cranberry bread, fresh out of the oven, I set to work. I'm happy to say it was a very productive day. And honestly, I'm hoping for that snow that is in the forecast. It's just as exciting to miss a work day now as it was to miss a school day in days past, don't you think?

expression of love

2011-01-06T15:42:00.000-08:00

photos by Taylor

The holidays were great and now it is back to work and school. We had fun times with my family this holiday. There were big birthdays to celebrate (my younger brother turned 50 this year and the twins turned 10). Our actual gift giving didn't take place until the 28th with stockings, and presents, and hand-painted Santas, and games, and puzzles, and hot spice tea. But it was kinda cool - when everyone else was back to the usual day-to-day, we were still celebrating and enjoying the holiday. The dogs enjoyed playing with the children and visa versa, and the kitties learned to tolerate each other, I believe, even enjoy each other. The New Year was brought in with our own fireworks display and roasting marshmallows down at my campfire, fire writing, story telling and laughs and then... everyone had to head back home.

Taylor got an extended time off but I had to get back to work. And it's been, or seemed, like one of the hardest work weeks yet. Working until 1am one night and til 10 another night really threw me off - hard after having so much relaxed time at home I guess. But... while I was away working long hours the kitties slept together, Taylor took some photos of my rings for me so I could add a new listing to my shop and even cleaned the house - isn't she sweet. Now I have made it through the first week back and hope to get back in the groove real soon. I've been a bad blogger friend for way too long now. I want you to know it certainly is not personal. I appreciate all of you who continue to visit. Please don't write me off your list just yet.

looking back / facing foward

2011-01-01T20:29:00.000-08:00

photo collaboration by Leslye and Taylor

I look back on 2010 and I feel rich in life. It was a year filled with many blessings and new experiences. But there are things in that old year that didn't go exactly as planned or things on the list that weren't quite accomplished . So I look to the New Year - to 2011 - with determination and feel excited for a fresh start and new beginnings.

I hope 2011 brings you many blessings - a year filled with happiness and joy in all that you do.

"For last year’s words belong to last year’s language

And next year’s words await another voice.

And to make an end is to make a beginning.”

- T.S.Elliot

by the sun / by the moon

2010-12-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

T- Nikon

We were prepared and ready to watch the lunar eclipse last night. Going to bed a little earlier and setting our alarm to get up and watch. But here in Atlanta the skies were cloudy and we couldn't see this first and only eclipse of 2010. It was a disappointment. But maybe some of you saw this wondrous site that fell on the early morning hours of our winter solstice - watched as the bright white glow of the moon gave way to a coppery, luminescent orange.

Celebrate Winter!

Banners hand made by Taylor on a cold winter night out of notebook paper.