A Squint At My Life

Project 7

2012-02-16T16:29:00.003-07:00

This week I had a hard time coming up with an idea.

With all the things I want to do and try you wouldnt think that would be an issue. I hope my brain can keep fresh ideas coming for the next 45 projects.

This week I decided to try a new media. I have seen these inks around and thought I would like to give them a whirl.

For this project I decided that I would do this like a research project.

I made detailed list of all the techniques I was going to try.

Made lists of the materials I would try... 5 different kinds of paper.

My plan was to try the different techniques with each of the papers and compare results.

After the first technique the other side of my brain took over and lists and written results were gone.

Sure messed up alot of paper... teehee

Lots of interesting things happen with this media.. that sure makes it fun to try.

Valentine photo project.

2012-02-13T13:38:00.002-07:00

Last weeks project was to do 7 Valentine themed photos.

I did post them on fb but here they are.

Which one is your favorite?

P.S. I Love You.

Fashion under lock and key.

2012-02-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

Those of you that know me well , know that I am not a "purse" kinda girl... I got a small wallet so I could carry it in the pocket of my hoodie. This little bag that I found last week could make me change my mind. It is so freakin cute!! Only problem is .. it doesnt really go with any if my hoodies.

Project 5 or Chronicles of a purple canvas

2012-02-05T10:43:00.001-07:00

A while back I had a great idea and it was to begin with a purple canvas. After I painted it I couldnt remember what that great idea was. So this week I thought I would do something with that purple canvas. This project is twofold. The other part being to photograph the progress of the project.

First of all I made a loose sketch of my new idea with pastels

Then I went looking for materials.. oops two jars of medium dried up.

Ok. Found a jar of medium. Tearing paper and attaching with acrylic matte medium

Progress buy the end of day one.

Day two.. there is always a stage in a painting that I say... what was I thinking.. this was then.

Day 4 still a mess going on. I have to really concentrate on the push and pull of warm and cool colours, bright and muted, to make my compostion work. It reminds me of painting and also of a jigsaw puzzle.

I Love the sparkle it seems to have ... so lively.. but I think I will leave more underpainting showing next time. I think covering the whole surface gives too few quiet areas.

Taa Da.. this is the finished product.. It is 16 x20 inches.. and I keep wanting to call it a painting even though it was a collage. .. hmm painted with paper.

Friendly local tour guide

2012-02-03T10:06:00.002-07:00

I had a chance to play with some of the photos I took while we were in British Columbia. This is one from Robert's Creek. That's where my friend Deanna lives. Lucky girl and I am so glad she took us to see this place. I never would have known it was there. I think I am going to make this one of a series of prints to hang on my wall.

Bringing sexy back

2012-01-30T00:11:00.003-07:00

My project for the week was anything but sexy.

My task was to clean the cupboards below my sinks. A job that needs doing more often than I do it. Not very glamorous you say... but wait..

while I had the cupboard empty I came up with this idea...

maybe hubby could replace my kitchen faucet with the one that he bought six months ago.

Yup he guessed he could do that.

Well there you have it , my project inspired my hubby.

And now we have a sexy new tap in the kitchen.

Birthday Flowers

2012-01-28T21:07:00.003-07:00

What!? She's still on about that Birthday... wasn't that like 3 weeks ago?

Yup it was, and my birthday flowers a looking a little peaked.

That's why I decided to take some photos of them.

This is one of my favorite images from this week.

Maybe tomorrow I will show the results from this weeks project.

2012-01-24T18:05:00.002-07:00

More Mandalas..this one based on the circle of life.

really learned alot doing this one.. digitally speaking.

Some new techniques I can use again .

This design has been seen for centuries all around the world with a common meaning.

Very interesting to me. I am in good company as DaVinci also studied this pattern.

Leo says it's good then, hey, who am I to argue.

More circles.

2012-01-23T21:44:00.000-07:00

OMG check out this HUGHmongous glass ball that I bought today!

It has all those wonderful bubbles.

It is mesmerizing by candlelight.. it reminds me of the ocean.

I LOVE IT!!

But it must weigh ten pounds. It measures 21 inches around.... isnt that the size of Mel's head?

I used some of my Birthday money from my mama to buy it.

She said buy something nice.. I sure did.

I have no earthly idea where it's going to live but I am sure I will find room.

God help me if I ever drop it on my toe.

Week 3 project.

2012-01-21T11:26:00.004-07:00

This week my project was to enhance a monoprint that I had done previously. I didnt feel as though it was 'done' so I thought I could add something to it to make it better.
All week I skirted this project. I felt as though I was afraid of ruining the work I had already done.
( I liked it but it just wasn't done).
All week I have been making mandalas. One a day hand drawn and coloured.
The process I found to be very calming and peacefull.
I felt a little guilty that I was working on mandalas instead of doing my Week 3 project.
Then it hit me.. why couldn't I use my print as a digital jumping off point for a mandala.
Ta-da... Here is my finished mandala based on a monoprint.

The Ocean Roar.

2012-01-15T15:46:00.002-07:00

We got to Tofino in time for me to wake up there on my Birthday. This is the view from the resort room on Cox Bay. I was surprised by the sound. Unlike any other time I have heard the ocean, one wave could not be distinguished from another. The ground trembled with the force of the ocean and the waves combined to create a roar like a jet engine overhead. This pic was taken the first morning we were in Tofino.

Project Week 2 .. The Sound Of The Waves.

2012-01-07T15:10:00.001-07:00

My husband is taking me away for the week. He knows my love for the water and thought it might be nice if I woke up on my Birthday to the sound of waves. So my poject for this week is to do a photo assignment at the beach. It will not be the warm kind of beach where you can lay in the sand and soak up the sun. But hopefully I will find a way to show you the sound of the waves.

A Step Up

2012-01-07T15:05:00.001-07:00

There have been alot of changes in this 75 yr old farmhouse over the years. Our renos alone have revealed alot of the previous owners tastes over the years. I wonder if the next owners will keep the mosaic.

Resolve Week One

2012-01-01T11:26:00.002-07:00

Week One
Happy New Year one and all.
I have decided to try a new tact this year.
New Year's Eve is often the time of resolutons and new beginnings.
Yup, that's right, I am making one.
This year I am resolving to tackle one new project every week.
Week one is going to be to finish the mosaic that I started a few years ago.
I have two steps into my livingroom and I've always thought they would look so nice with
a glass mosaic on them.
I will be posting the result at the end of week one.
Cross your fingers for me.

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-20T15:50:00.002-07:00

Inspired by the internet Reese and Marley and I made this lovely tree with their handprints.

Three Little Kittens.

2011-12-16T14:24:00.001-07:00

I love my new mittens... they are just so ..me. Reminds me of when we were kids and Mom gave us socks to wear outdoors after we had lost our mittens. I am going to try to make these.

Christmas In My Heart

2011-12-12T13:51:00.001-07:00

Last night we went to visit Floyd's sister and hubby. She is a incredible crafty woman who sells her beautiful creations. I admired a scarf that she made. She instantly told me she would give me a ball of yarn and a set of needles to get me started making one of my own. As I watched the ruffled scarf rolling out from my needles this morning. It struck me that she had given me such a gift. She could have given me a scarf , but instead she gave me the feeling that comes from creating something beautiful. A touch of the passion she feels for her craft. I hope whom ever comes to have this lovely scarf draped around their neck feels a tiny bit of that. Who knows maybe it will be keeping my neck as warm as it has made my heart.

Perfect Saturday

2011-12-10T10:30:00.001-07:00

Saturdays on the farm dont get much better than this... Pancakes and Paperdolls with a few of my special girlies.

Fairydust

2011-12-07T23:31:00.001-07:00

Today we went to see the Fairy Godmother

She showed us rows and rows of beautiful gowns

She transformed the young maids into tiny princesses

and they twirled and danced and floated on air.

What a magical day it was.

Day 6 Lights

2011-11-30T09:52:00.001-07:00

I am having a hard time keeping up to this photo challenge.. yesterday morning I baked bread and tarts, made a meal that could be kept warm in the oven. Then I went out with hubby and two helpers to vaccinate the cattle. It was dark by the time I made it back to the house to grab a shower and put that meal on the table. Little time to think about photo challenge and even less energy. I did manage to get this shot of Kim leaving our house in his muscle car. I was excited to see the effect. A ghost car. I would like to try this when I have more time

30 Day Photo Challenge Day 5 "Words"

2011-11-28T11:20:00.001-07:00

Some metal words I have been waiting to do something with.

30 Day Photo Challenge "Water"

2011-11-28T11:16:00.001-07:00

All the water in the great outdoors is frozen around here , so I had to come up with an alternative plan.Water droplets on a piece of glass worked well.

Day 3 of the 30 day photo challenge.

2011-11-25T10:17:00.001-07:00

This is the sweater I plan on wearing today. Usually a tshirt or chunky sweater for me this sweater is soooo soft and cuddly makes me want to hug everyone.

Photo Challenge Day 2 Breakfast.

2011-11-24T13:39:00.001-07:00

I almost forgot to do the photo challenge today.

When I remembered it was well past breakfast so I decided to recreate my breakfast.

Close, but the eggs were scrambbled and I added some jalapeno cheese.

Plenty of coffee to follow.

Photo Challenge Day 1

2011-11-23T11:56:00.001-07:00

Day 1. Something Shiny.

Would you like to join the fun or just challenge yourself?

Just clk on the 30 Day Photo Challenge List

Please feel free to post a link to your photo if you are following along.

30 Day Photo Challenge List

2011-11-23T09:26:00.001-07:00

I have decided to try a 30 day Photography Challenge.

I think I will start now so that I can be done by Christmas.

I have seen this idea around the web and thought it would be

great fun and a learning experience. I'm all for lurnin'.

I am going to post the results here.

Want to play along?

Post a link to your photo from your blog

or whatever site it's on.It's just that easy.

Ok let's get started.

Day 1. Something shiny

Day 2. Breakfast

Day 3. What you wore today

Day 4. Water

Day 5. Words

Day 6. Lights

Day 7. An animal

Day 8. Something white

Day 9. Clouds

Day 9. Hands

Day 10. A flower

Day 11. A clock

Day 12. Interesting shadow

Day 13. Sunflare

Day 14. Texture

Day 15. Desert

Day 16. From a low angle

Day 17. From a high angle

Day 18. An ornament

Day 19. A toy

Day 20. Something pink

Day 21. Something hot

Day 22. A smile

Day 23. Long exposure

Day 24. A friend

Day 25. Shopping

Day 26. What's cooking

Day 27. Black and white

Day 28. Tied in a bow

Day 29. Artwork

Day 30. Self portrait

Lights ...camera... action..

Getting into the spirit.

2011-11-22T17:35:00.001-07:00

I decided to start a teensy tiny bit of decorating for Christmas. I strung a couple of sets of lights outdoors while the weather is giving us a reprieve.

Mother Nature's bling.

2011-11-21T12:35:00.001-07:00

One of the things I like best about winter is hoar frost. These photos taken last week are from my yard one morning when the fog created this beautiful crystal coat over everything. Makes even the mundane clothes line look like something special.

Bling bling

2011-11-15T19:09:00.001-07:00

My daughter got engaged last week. She was very excited to show me her ring and have me take a photo of it. It is beautiful and I am very happy for their little family.

Photography Class

2011-11-13T15:44:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday I taught a Photography class for the day. It was so much fun. One of the things I asked the group to do was to make a portrait discribing the charactor of their choosen model, without using the face. I couldnt let them have all the fun.So here is my portrait of Laura. I added a bit to it but I think you can tell that she is a funloving , young lady.

Adventures in Collagraph

2011-11-10T17:33:00.001-07:00

I spent a few days now preparing the matrix for this print. This is what the matrix looks like after a few prints. I was excited to try this technique because it seemed fun , easy, inexpensive, and a good way to make a larger print. Also a great way to use up the roll of rice paper I have had in my stash for a few years. The Matrix is made of cardboard that I cut away with an exacto knife. I think I would have been tempted to try something a bit more complicated. After a few cuts I realized that something bolder and more graphic would be easier to cut. I also thought if it was more primitive I wouldnt be so hung up if it flopped. After I finished carving and glueing up the matrix it had to be coated a couple of time with some sort of water resistant coating . That keeps the ink from soaking in and preserves the life of the matrix. That took me a few days to do and I learned a few things here. But it was hard to be patient .... come on dry now... I want to start printing.

These are the prints that I handpulled from the matrix. The first print is done with black speedball ink. I chose it because I had more of it. Living so far out of town has it's drawbacks . One of them being that I am not able to run to the store for supplies.. so I get to use what I have on hand. I didnt like the way it printed in black. So on the second one I added some colour. My colour palette in speedball inks is limited. Not happy again. I do however have a whole ~~shitload~~ tote full of acrylic paints. Hmmm... thinking. I thought the craft paints would be more the right consistancy , I also used a acrylic retarder to slow down the drying process. That gave me a little more time to apply the paint. Of course I had to try it with my metallics.. love that. For the most part I was not really that happy with the way they turned out. I did like the mottling of colour I was able to acheive and I think number 6 is my favorite colour combo. It is hard to tell hear just what the colours are. Maybe I will take some photos in the daylight so you get the idea. I think I am going to try this again with mattboard. although I love the way the corrugated part of the cardboard prints.

All in all it was a fun experiement.

The printed part of the images is 10"x 27"

Easy Come Easy Go.

2011-11-09T15:21:00.004-07:00

Yesterday I cashed in my winning lottery ticket. I spent 24 glorious hours dreaming about what I was going to do with it. Today my daughter needed $20 .. poof there went my dreams.

Melted Ice Cream

2011-11-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on my way home from the store , I thought the sky looked promising. I decided to drive around for awhile. I Was hoping to catch the sun lighting up the underside of a huge cloudbank in the western sky. By the time it got under the cloud there was a film of haze between the sun and the cloud. This created a hazey glow instead of the fire I was hoping to see. Drat foiled again.. but then again this photo I took on my way home from my "secret" vantadge point made me smile. I hope it comes accross as good here as it did on my computer. I have a feeling it will come up small , if that is the case you just need to click on the photo to see it larger.

In perspective

2011-11-04T19:27:00.002-06:00

Once in a while, especially when I look at the work of others I feel like I have a long way to go as a photographer. I have agreed to teach a photography class in a nearby town and so I have been purusing my past photos looking for examples to support my classes. One good thing that has come from it is I get to see all the photos I have taken in past years. I get to see how my photography has grown, and all the lovely photos I have taken. It really is a boost. Sort of the same feeling I got when I saw all my paintings together in a show. Very gratifying indeed.

Farm dogs.

2011-11-04T01:05:00.000-06:00

These two are my constant companions when I am out taking photos.
Always curious about what the heck Mama is doing laying on the ground again.
The top one is Bear.. also known affectionatly as Fattyfatty bear dog. She has one of the sweetest temperments of any dog I have known. Below her is Mick. He is a hardworking funloving kinda guy.
He loves long walks, playing ball, and catchin a frisbee.

Jump for joy

2011-10-31T00:29:00.002-06:00

I spent far too much time playing with this little bit of silliness

but I just couldnt resist.

Silly is good!

Play day.

2011-10-29T23:52:00.001-06:00

Today I spent some time with the girlies. We had fun just playing.

Then I came home and played some more.

This time with some new photo editing techniques.

While there is nothing wrong with the original,

I thought the new version showed more of the fun we had.

Plus Emily's fav colour is yellow.

From this

To this.

Pretty things

2011-10-28T11:17:00.000-06:00

I got three tutus made last night.

I cant wait to do the tutu photoshoot.

Looking Back

2011-10-26T22:18:00.001-06:00

I have been looking over some of my archived photos.

I really loved this photo from the past. It reminds me of my childhood,

even though the subject is my Grand-daughter.

2011-10-25T12:19:00.004-06:00

The birds have been flying south. I have seen very few of the little songbirds that visit for the summer.
This guy will be here all winter. As pretty as the Canada Jay is they still annoy me. They are big and bossy and great hoarders of seed. But in the frozen winter it is kind of nice to look out and see this kind of beauty.

U R My Sunshine.

2011-10-21T21:20:00.003-06:00

This is a photo that I took last week at a special photo shoot of a Mom and her young son. I thought it was kinda sweet.

First Day

2011-10-12T20:03:00.000-06:00

Today is the first time I have logged on to the internet with my new computer.
The first post from my new editing software.
Seems only appropriate that I should post this pic of another first day.

Fraud with a camera.

2011-10-11T16:35:00.003-06:00

Wandering aimlessly around my yard with my camera , at a loss as to what to shoot, feeling like a fraud with a camera. I dont know maybe it's the weather that makes me feel this way. Yup she is losing it. The bottom pic is the view from under my hammock in the yard. I miss the leaves.

Hello Sweet Pea.

2011-10-09T11:09:00.003-06:00

Around here the sweet pea is a cherished addition to the flower garden.

An old fashioned flower grown by sentimental gardener types.

It seems that those who grow them really love them. The other day a friend stopped by for a visit.

She had clutched in her hand a lovely bouquet of Sweet peas swaddled in moist paper towel.

What a lovely symbol of friendship, a gift from the heart.

Every time I get a whiff of the sweet soapy scent I am grateful to have such special thoughtful friends.

Phototherapy

2011-10-06T14:27:00.001-06:00

The other day I was having a bad day.

I thought it might be theraputic to go out with my camera.

My idea was to give in to the cold , foggy, dreary , decaying feeling that I had inside,

and that seems to permeate outside, now that fall is in full swing.

I was on the lookout for the most depressing images I could find...

oh yeah I was going to depress the socks offa you guys.

Seems like the universe had other plans for me.

Turns out there is inside me,

something that has a yearning for beauty,

an eternal optimist,

a dreamer,

a hoper

and a sense that good always wins.

Sometimes I just need to have it pointed out to me.

Colour me delighted.

2011-10-05T11:22:00.001-06:00

Look what I found today in my internet wandering. Are these not the neatest things ever? I have to say I love love love the pencil image at the bottom. Done by a carpenter named Dalton Ghetti. This would make a wonderful framed print. and would look great even without the alphabet carving. Sorry the image is so small . I guess I have alot to learn about borrowing images from google. And finally, just to cover my butt, I just want to tell you that these are not my images. Kudos to the creative types that did these awesome carvings.

Foggy Morning

2011-10-04T10:17:00.003-06:00

Foggy and cold this morning.

This is the view near the end of my driveway.

Looks to me like winter is

just around the corner.

Midnight Lights.

2011-09-28T00:35:00.000-06:00

Here I am up in the wee hours because I just had to show you the Northern Lights putting on a show for us tonight. It is just a few degrees above freezing here. This image might have been better if I had taken the time to get out my tripod. But then again maybe it wouldn't have been captured at all. The Northern Lights move very quickly changing shape , dancing accross the sky. Sometimes they are only there for a few minutes. Pretty good for no coat , no tripod and flip flops in the dark.

Lucky Season.

2011-09-27T16:45:00.000-06:00

Fall is most definatly here. the other day I took this photo and now the leaves are totally yellow and flying around. I have been keeping busy with company since Friday so I have not had a chance to get any photos of the fall splendor. But on the other hand I have been laughing , hugging, joking,seeing movies and art shows, and staying up late drinking wine and catching up.

Things that make me say "Awwwww"

2011-09-25T23:33:00.003-06:00

Just a few quick edits from Fridays Photos.

Wheelin' and Dealin'

2011-09-23T13:25:00.002-06:00

Ever since I saw a painted bike in July , I have been inspired to do something similar. I went to the local second hand store. They know me well there as I have been bringing my ~~junk~~ treasure from the last few purging benders. With a little dickering I was able to trade some good but unwanted items for this old bike. A little paint and some flowers and I think it's a showstopper.I am excited to see it decked out for Chistmas, Easter etc.

Early to rise.

2011-09-21T14:36:00.000-06:00

I am not sure why but lately I have been sleeping in. Despite going to bed a "decent" hour I still am sleeping around 10 hours a night. That seems far more than my usual 6 or 7 hours. It feels odd and a little disturbing to me.( is it weird to be complaining about sleeping too much?) This morning it seems my old sleep patterns are back. I was up early enough to get out and watch the sun rise over a farmers field just to the south of us. Ahhh beautiful , and home before hubby got out of bed.

Birds of a Feather

2011-09-20T16:41:00.002-06:00

It's no secret. I have always had a fondness for birds. I have many bird themed items in my home. from egg baskets to birdcages and all sorts of birdy things in between.

Maybe that's why this ferocious looking young hawk thought it would be ok to hang out in our porch that is under construction... The cat was frantic to get out there. The dogs were waiting for one little slip off his perch and I was terrified to go out to get him out, lest I come into contact with the razor sharp beak or those deathly talons. Floyd had to grab him with a gloved hand and toss him out. He flew away without looking back.

Best Friends

2011-09-17T12:00:00.001-06:00

I am thinking of making this a card

It reminds me of fun times

and good friends

I am so lucky to have both.

2011-09-10T10:18:00.002-06:00

It has been great weather for sunbathing and afternoon naps on the deck.

Playdate.

2011-09-07T11:49:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I took a drive through the woods , down a winding dirt road. The sun dappled road was overgrown and wild with gentle curves and it made me think of Sunday drives from long ago. Although we have spent alot of time together I had never been to her home. I was wondering if her place would be as I had imagined when I was greeted by a grove of happy looking sunflowers that touched the sky, a quaint house frosted in flowers, and a lawn that looked like the owners had much better things to do than lawn care. We spent a wonderful day playing in her log studio, talking , sharing, immersed in art and each other. Thank you so much for your open arms and for helping me to remember why I love creating.

Button heART

2011-09-03T13:26:00.002-06:00

I have always wanted to do some art made from found objects. My sewing adventure yesterday got me thinking... hmmmm

Nooooo

2011-09-01T09:52:00.003-06:00

It was cold last night so I checked my thermometer.... what the... imagine my dismay when I saw the future forcast.

Morning Glory

2011-08-31T21:50:00.002-06:00

This morning I woke to a cloudy morning. Thinking it might be a good sunrise , I took a short walk to the dugout. Nice to get out and take some photos in the morning and be back before coffee is done.

Party Girls

2011-08-29T11:41:00.002-06:00

The last week or two have been filled with parties and summer socializing. This is Em and a couple of party friends at her sixth Birthday.

A new angle

2011-08-20T07:09:00.002-06:00

I just came back from our provinces capital , where I went to see the Andy Warhol exhibit that was on display . Two exciting days with views I seldom experience. My senses overflowed for most of that time. This is the outside of the Art Gallery of Alberta... view from the fourth floor patio. I would have loved to spent some time just taking photos of the interesting buildings and the rhythm of city life.

Three minutes of Marley

2011-08-16T02:10:00.002-06:00

I am not sure why it always seems like I am editing at 2 am.

But I thought I would try to do something fun with these cute photos of MonkeyBean.

Babyface.

2011-08-15T00:04:00.004-06:00

Yes, You've got the sweetest little babyface.

Owl Love it.

2011-08-12T19:32:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I went to see a friend in Beaverlodge. Beaverlodge is home to a very nice little quilting shop. When I saw this cute owl print I knew I was going to have to make something with it. So I dug out my sewing machine and all the bits. It takes longer to take it out and put it away than it does to sew something. Maybe I can make another before I have to put it away.

One Island Lake

2011-08-09T21:22:00.002-06:00

Two days at the lake made my heart happy. Not my lake but One Island Lake is a nice little out of the way spot great for fishing.

Rowdies

2011-07-30T18:01:00.002-06:00

Much of the day is spent sleeping and the rest of the time is spent wrestling and tail chasing. Yup sounds like any teenage brothers.

MEOW

2011-07-29T11:43:00.004-06:00

Seems the kitties are fitting in just fine. Floyd wouldn't let on but he loves the

little Meowtions

SuperModel.

2011-07-26T21:38:00.005-06:00

Check out these freckles

Today we played spa, when it was Reese's turn she wanted to dress up. So into Grandma's closet, a pair of Grandma's high heels and some baubles..... Reese couldn't believe that I didn't own a tiara.

Heaven Scent

2011-07-25T09:03:00.003-06:00

I have to say I love the sites, sounds, and smells of Summer. Yesterday I brought in some peonies for my table. I knew the perfect compliment would be Northern Bedstraw. A tiny little flower that reminds me of Babies Breath. It grows in partially shaded areas , like the edge of a forest. It is an interesting little plant that has alot of uses. I have always been interested in the history of plants and their uses. It seems to me that what was once widely known about the world around us, is no longer common knowledge. This little plant was very useful. The roots of the plant were one of the only real sources of red dye. It could be made into a tea for stomach ailments. A salve was made to treat insect bites and rashes.. also used to bleach freckles. This plant is in the same family as the coffee plant and apparently it's seeds make a a very good coffee substitute. It's sweet vanilla scent made it perfect for perfume. Also used for mattress ticking, hence the name. I don't think I will be brave enough to brew up a batch of tea for medicinal purposes. But I am sure going to enjoy the wonderful aroma in my kitchen.

Canola Sunrise.

2011-07-21T06:56:00.002-06:00

Most days when I wake up at 430 it's pretty easy to go back to bed. This morning there was a shallow band of clear sky on the eastern horizon. That coupled with the dense overhead cloud cover, made me think that we could be in for a colour show. Patience paid off this morning. I drove to the very northern most hay field. To the east there is a canola field that is starting to bloom. A short walk on a deer trail, fighting mosquitos , I was rewarded for said patience. Not only did I see a wonderful display of colour , but also a young deer and a pretty rainbow on the way home. And look , still time to get some shuteye before hubby wakes up.

Ladies of the Lake

2011-07-20T18:30:00.003-06:00

We just spent a couple of nice days by the lake. My sister (shown here skipping stones) is off work for most of the summer. What a great time we had walking the beach, watching sunsets, just chatting. I cant tell you how envious I am that she is there to enjoy it every day. But as sisters with the same lake-water running through our veins... I know she knows, and wishes I could too.

More faux Ttv

2011-07-11T21:46:00.002-06:00

I'm sure I hve posted this photo before without the Ttv effect. I thought it would be a great photo for this treatment. I cant wait for the sun to come out.. and I cant wait to try some other special effects I have been reading about... and I especially cant wait for my nd filters to come so I can try some long exposure shots.

Rainy Days

2011-07-09T11:53:00.004-06:00

The last couple of days have been rainy.. really rainy. Staying inside has given me time to play with photos. I really like ttv images so I thought I would try to mimic the effect in photoshop. This is my first try.

Reach up.... way up.

2011-07-05T19:39:00.003-06:00

Quiet time this evening. Hubby is off on his bike . The sun is shining and the wind is blowing a warm breeze over my skin. The peas are reaching up. I am sure by next week they will have grabbed on tight to the metal bedsteads that I put out for them to climb on.

I Love Scrabble

2011-06-30T10:43:00.003-06:00

Here are some pendants that I made last night using Scrabble tiles. This series of pendants remind me of my first apartment. I might make them into a bracelet to wear together. I cant wait to have some fun with Debbie on Tuesday making more. I can put instructions and photos up if anyone would like. Leave a comment and let me know so I can take some photos next time I make these.

Briar's hat.

2011-06-29T08:06:00.002-06:00

Last month I promised my neice that I would try to make a hat like her fav that she was outgrowing. I just couldnt find a pattern and unless I took it apart I just couldnt figure it out. So I went on the computer and found this pattern. I had fun making it and I think I know some other little girls that might like this one.

Playful

2011-06-28T13:52:00.003-06:00

I forgot how much fun it can be to play. I spent some time playing with some images from an earlier photoshoot. As an added bonus I got to look at this cuties photos all afternoon.

Muuuuudddddd!!

2011-06-27T10:33:00.002-06:00

After all the rain we have been having there is alot of mud. Perfect for the mud boggers. This is our neighbours truck going through the pit. I felt pretty sure I wouldnt get dirty up in the stands but I did get a beet red nose.

Heaven Scent

2011-06-26T09:36:00.002-06:00

My lilacs are now in bloom. Just viewing the photos brings me such a rush of ofactory memory. Pure bliss.

FLooding near our house.

2011-06-24T15:46:00.003-06:00

This is a view at the end of the driveway.

This is from the north of the lease road.

This is a view of the creek farther north. This is usually a babbling creek.

This is the road north of our house. Looking west.

This is the creek near B.J.s old place. Notice the fence posts underwater.

Around and Around.

2011-06-23T17:10:00.003-06:00

I was out riding the lawn mower today enjoying the sunshine. My first clue that something was wrong was when Mick started to follow the mower... then Bear did too. Mick is terrified of thunder and would do whatever he could to be close to me. I glanced into the sky and saw some heavy clouds in the distance. Ooohh I love a good lightning storm. After putting Mick and Bear in the house I grabbed the camera. The clouds were moving so fast I was getting dizzy watching them. We seldom get tornados here, but I have to admit these spiral clouds did make me a bit nervous and I was thinking about my conversation with my Mom last night , in which she reminded me of where to go in case of a tornado. Thanks Ma, but it blew right over.

First day of summer.

2011-06-21T22:06:00.002-06:00

Today was a perfect day for drying cloths on the clothsline. Not too hot with a fresh breeze after a weekend of rain everything was so cool and green. I am hoping that this sky will be a visual aid that will help you know how it was to bury my nose in those fresh cool sheets.

Kiss the Rain.

2011-06-16T21:47:00.005-06:00

Marley is at a wonderful age when she does alot of pretending games.

She makes pretend lunches ,

does pretend shopping,

takes walks in the rain with imaginary friends.

I love this time in a kids life.

Anyone up for a walk in the rain?

No.... so it's just me and my imaginary friends then?

check out prev post for a good rain song.

Billie Myers - Kiss The Rain

2011-06-16T21:44:00.001-06:00

Country roads

2011-06-15T19:43:00.003-06:00

Sometimes I take supper to my hubby in the field , or shuttle him from one field to another. The other day he asked me to bring the old black truck so we could bring some seed home. I dont drive it very often and I forgot how big it is compared to my car. I also forgot how great it feels like to cruise down the gravel, windows open, radio cranked, making a dust plume down the country road. I love summer.

Spring blossoms

2011-06-08T21:17:00.002-06:00

The flowering trees are in full bloom right now. Judging by the beautiful blossoms covering the trees, the harvests will be bountiful.

Childhood Hangups

2011-06-07T12:10:00.003-06:00

A month ago Grand daughter Reese turned 6.

She is really growing.

So much that if she stretches up very tall and stands on her tippies,

she can just reach the clothesline.

And if baby sister Marley helps with the clothespins....

she can get some things out on the line...

I
I am still trying to figure out what the critia is.

June in Northern Alberta.

2011-06-03T18:04:00.005-06:00

Yesterday I went out and got some shots that really show how beautiful it can be in Northern Alberta in June. ...

And today....

well just have a look.

Rocks and Weeds.

2011-06-02T11:06:00.004-06:00

I went out for a walk this morning. I went the back way. The back way is a mile through our cow pasture, up to the next road. As I took in the bright morning landscape I noticed all the dandelions brought on by the warm weather we have been having. The land in our area is not really great for farming... unless you have a strong enough back to pick all the rocks.

Normal?

2011-05-31T07:56:00.004-06:00

Yup, things are getting back to normal around here. If by normal, you mean getting up at the crack of dawn and crawling around in the wet grass to look for shots of dewdrops.

2011-05-29T21:59:00.002-06:00

Things have been hectic around here. Playhouse wrap up is always busy and ny mother was staying with us while she was evacuated from Slave Lake due to fires. She has gone home now ... well not quite home but she is staying at my sisters and is due home on Monday. This weekend has been very busy and alot of fun. But watching this sunset all alone seemed like a special treat.

Early Morning Solitude

2011-05-22T08:00:00.002-06:00

Getting up very early in the morning for bootcamp 3 times a week has it's perks. This is a pond that I pass by on my way to Sexsmith.

The place we once called home, Slave Lake, Alberta

2011-05-17T10:37:00.002-06:00

Heartbreaking. We are still waiting for news. Extra help is coming from all over the country to help fight the fires. And we are getting a sense of the heart of Alberta as people show their support with donations and offers to house displaced ppl and animals.

Fire in Town of Slave Lake.

2011-05-16T17:36:00.002-06:00

I found this photo on the net. It is a photo of a firefighter standing in front of his home in Slave Lake Alberta. The destruction that is happening there boggles my mind. My mom who lives there, and my sister who lives in the neighbouring town , have found a safe place to be. Thank God for that. They are not able to go home because the fires are still raging. It sounds horrible to hear their voices as they talk about the waiting and the not knowing. All my love to them. But what I would really like to say is Thank you so much to the brave firefighters who are risking their lives to battle the fires. Many of whom have lost everything.

Sloth and Gluttony

2011-05-09T15:55:00.004-06:00

The last ten days have been full of celebrations, food, friends, family,babies, cake, late nights, late mornings, laughter, love and did I mention FOOD. I noticed yesterday that I was feeling happier and more relaxed than I have in a very long time. The downside of this blissful decadance was this morning. After pulling my reluctant and expanding rearend out of bed at 4;45 ... that's right A.M. I took it to get tortured at bootcamp. It was a slaughter really. I almost broke into tears at one point. How could ten days of sloth and gluttony have gotten me so far behind. I was determined to get back on track. That is after I went for a not so healthy breakfast with my sweetheart of a Daughter in law. She gave me these wonderful blue orchids, a giant balloon...(barely fit in my car) and a little friend for squirrel. Thank you guys soo much , you sure know how to show a fat girl a good time.

2011-05-07T23:30:00.003-06:00

"It is as grandmothers that our mothers come into the fullness of their grace."

Christopher MorleyHappy Mother's day to every Mama.

Neighbourly

2011-05-07T08:00:00.003-06:00

One of the great things about taking photos is that people are always interested in what you are doing. Last night while I was taking photos of this old house, Sadie and her people (Clara and Ernest) and I had a good visit while the sun set.

My Spring GIfts

2011-04-27T14:14:00.001-06:00

Thanks to my lovely daughter for these beautiful flowers

and for being my biggest fan.

xox

Signs Of Spring

2011-04-26T20:31:00.003-06:00

The bulls are looking for a way out.

The creek is flowing fast

And there are a gazzillion pussy willows.

Pink and blue

2011-04-24T22:18:00.002-06:00

Spring is doing it's magic here. Still lots of snow but starting to melt.