The Art Shack

pots n apples

2012-01-02T03:59:00.000-08:00

This was a photo oportunity indeed..as we have had an extended fall with little snow thus far..and although the remaining apples on the tree would be a bit mushy for my taste..the pot boys did not seem to be concerned and took advantage of the feasting opportunity that remained..it's been good to allow them a bit more wandering time prior to winter's typical fury ..and snowy blanket!

humbug

2011-12-27T04:22:00.000-08:00

There is something bittersweet about Christmas memories..my early childhood memories were grand..magical.Now ..I am in a rush to get it all over with . the anticipation ..the nativity story..the umpteenth viewing of a Christmas Carol..the turkey dinner..the christmas morning surprise..the straining to hear gentle reindeer hooves on roof
This year I subscribed minimally to the event.I am typically not a callous or cool person..and have a great deal of the sentimental in me-which is precisely why I don't like Christmas anymore.It has lost it's spiritual magic..it's glow. I feel it is manufactured and contained in a shiny box and Ino longer wish to contribute to it's shallow expectations. I enjoyed having my daughter home ..and relaxing together on the coach ..eating ,munching on special goodies through the day. my partner Stephen made a yummy dinner of bar bqued salmon..yet...
but I sensed a gap..and for me it had something to do with spiritual void..Working with people who are alone,impoverished,disenfranchised,unwell--it's kind of hard to go home and be cheery..there was a time I could make that divide-but not now.

sometimes it's the little things that bring joy

Tis the Season..

2011-12-14T04:02:00.000-08:00

to be contemplative,frugal,thoughtful..

simple things offer joy like a 2 dollar glass pitcher..

or my wonderful hand blown glass globe..from local glassmaker Kate Civero

my snowy backyard view

an Amish schoolhouse on way to work

my sunny winter drive early morning

Alas something I am aiming for

November meanderings

2011-11-27T04:50:00.001-08:00

A few new art pieces

She sold at a local art show...

A view on my drive home from work

Frost is creeping in here and there..but it's been unseasonably mild this November

is it really over?..summer..sigh

2011-09-27T03:16:00.000-07:00

It's hard to fathom that July and August have slipped by.and now almost September..it never fails to amaze me that September heralds a colorful display of flowers and grasses even before the leaves light up in Autumn..The chickens,goats,pots and cats are taking in all of the outdoors they can muster before frosty days ahead confine them..Similarly i try to breathe in all I can..I am a reluctant gardener.. appreciating perennials yet tired of pulling weeds and edging..let Ma nature fill in her own gaps..it's still glorious!

September

2011-09-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

Eddie is an irresistable subject..

a block or two from home..

sunrise...

Suphur Springs park.a gem of a conservation area-and better still ..a walk in the midst of my work day..

a new little painting..trying to loosen up a bit

original collage

2011-08-14T04:51:00.000-07:00

currently available in my etsy store..http://www.etsy.com/shop/MaudStarr?ref=pr_shop_more

August is fresh air..natural meanderings

2011-08-14T04:40:00.000-07:00

Eddie transfixed with the outside world..

the days are getting a little shorter so I have to maximize my outdoor time with the brood! :-)

a sign on my way to work..:-)

Silkie heaven

2011-08-05T04:06:00.000-07:00

I am not too hard to please..Give me a few silkie chickens and I am content..I attended the Tuesday small animal auction at Keady and although part of me despises the idea of amimals as a commodity .(.and the way small rabbits were grappled and chickens/geese squished into crates)..it is one of the few ways to select a chicken of your dreams..I actually bid on these three lovelies..and "won" them for 6.25 each (I reassured them their home would be grand!)

They are blending quite well in with the other lonely silkie-she seems to have adopted them into her circle...

and the piggies were quite pleased to be outside in this glorious non humid weather also

Summer time meanderings/distractions

2011-07-24T05:14:00.000-07:00

Enormous Hanover dog (they grow 'em big there..:-)

Hanover street sightings

my local scape,flowers

Summer is a time where I feel quite literally split in many directions..There is the outdoors..nature..wild unruly garden, animals/fur family..and art ..What to do..and yet i must take time to relax and ponder too...

After a friend's wonderful art opening-a reception in a beautiful country home..a bit of paradise!

a Birthday lunch at a divine little cafe in Neustadt Ont..Simply Natural(best homemade soup I have ever tasted!)

Neustadt is a five minute drive from my workplace..a lovely spot to meander

a morning at the Amish auction

2011-06-13T18:04:00.000-07:00

I tried to discreetly take photos at this incredible gathering..

later we visited the incredible bakery in Paisley..

Beau-tiful weekend

2011-06-06T04:08:00.000-07:00

Finally weatherwise a totally perfect sunshine-y summer like day without blackflies ! Yea

I visited a local artist to peruse his art in lovely stone house studio nearby..

I trimmed edges of our green green lawn ..layed down mulch and peat moss ..froliced a bit with animals and sat down for a coool one in the shade to rest my weary bones later in day..sigh
Later I attended a concert in nearby Massie hall..Matthew Barber..wonderful and intimate

Also viewed a moving and spectacular film called "BIutiful" with the wonderful actor Javier Bardem..
http://www.biutiful-themovie.com/

who says you can't bring a little culture to the country..ahh the best of both..

my new rush hour ride

2011-06-04T04:06:00.000-07:00

All I can say is give me twenty minutes of this sort of travel over everything and anything I have experienced in the past

May weekend bliss

2011-05-23T04:10:00.000-07:00

Black fies hover..yet the verdant backdrop is encouraging..birds singing pigs strolling etc..

A new path..

2011-05-12T03:32:00.002-07:00

Well i haven't posted for awhile due to far too many life distractions. my daughter needed assistance moving ,i left one job..moved on to another,and

A new path..

2011-05-12T03:32:00.001-07:00

Well i haven't posted for awhile due to far too many life distractions. my daughter needed assistance moving ,i left one job..moved on to another,and

A new path..

2011-05-12T03:32:00.000-07:00

Well i haven't posted for awhile due to far too many life distractions. my daughter needed assistance moving ,i left one job..moved on to another,and

indoor days

2011-02-20T04:30:00.000-08:00

The dogs and kitties provided lots of comfort and demonstrated how to relax..

Although the sun was trying to emerge the winds were fierce

Good for the soul..Sometimes I'm forced to stay inside by ma nature and it gives me the respite from the world and the hustle that I so need.

A little urban getaway

2011-02-08T03:51:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I have to be pushed out of the door-but in reality a change of scenery is usually a good thing. The trouble being that my scenery is beautiful and to travel endlessly (and for me it is endlesssly due to the fact I only travel small highways to reach my destination) i had the pleasure of attending a good artist friend's opening saturday afternoon in Toronto and parked quite expertly on a narrow downtown road on top of a little snowbank..navigating can be tricky..butI I enjoy the adventure of it!

Exploring little shops and taking in the styles and airs of the locals provided me with wonderful eye candy..A late lunch in a small unassuming Korean restaurant was a culinary miracle.I felt soothed and gastronomically attended to.Later a dinner with another artist friend's eleven women friends proved to be a heavenly tonic on a cold winter's night..

Not quite february Blahs

2011-01-30T15:54:00.000-08:00

a visitor...

I am trying to seek the positive,the beautiful and the precious..the landscape is snowy pristine-perfect for snow shoeing and taking in the natural stark beauty of my rural winter world..The caretaking of the out of doors creatures is a bit more cumbersome -as their habitat must be kept clean and warm..water fresh ..ice in chicken waterers cleared..and pig manure scraped and heaved over the fence..the days are a bit longer however ,and the goats with their puffy coats seem to have more of spring in their stride.the sun was glorious today..and lots of out of door time to taek it all in..The dogs were walked extensively but somehow Edgar still has energy to burn.

sometimes the cats accept Ed..usually Ned is the most congenial

a lovely vined city porch..

Appreciating the art of others..

2011-01-04T04:16:00.000-08:00

my etsy treasury..

sometimes life falls into place as it should

2011-01-02T16:14:00.000-08:00

I have been fretting lately about the fate of our hens..harassed daily by too many handsome yet aggressive(oxymoron?) roos..I advertised to rehome three of them ..much to the doubting protests of my S>O (I requested a good home for them to roam out their lives-rather than to be served up on a platter)

Anyway I was fortunate to catch the interest of an avid bird friendly 4-h ing 15 year old who runs his own hobby /poultry operation.This polite and sincere young man was keen and insisted he loved his birds and did not slaughter them for food. Upon arrival at his farm I was greeted by this young man and his brother who were gentle with the nervous threesome and seemed quite impressed with their feathered charming qualities! They showed me around..and proudly offered a view of their home made coops-clean and impressive with lots of happy cohabitating birds..
They also bred heritage birds and were quite informed all around..Sometimes it is gratifying to take that extra step!
There was a new calm in the henhouse tonight..sigh

All is calm

2011-01-01T15:52:00.000-08:00

Quiet chickens..inside..

nearby Williamsford where I picked up my daughter from her New Year's eve return trip

Happy new year..tranquil..rainy..yet the pace has slowed down and so have I ..sigh

mellow,hairy hohoho

2010-12-28T15:26:00.000-08:00

i really don't know why the dogs were so tuckered out

but they were definitely dreaming of tidbits from our dinner to come..
harmony

Luna grinning..

Toronto tales

2010-12-28T15:20:00.000-08:00

Toronto is no longer my home town. staying in hotels there can feel a bit stark-disconnected from the world..crisp linen is nice..and not sharing the bed with two canines is also nice for a change..sigh

the view outside was the 401 highway on one view..and this lovely place of worship on the other side of parking lot..

we ate Thai food and took pictures of each other..like tourists

ahh this is more like it...

let it snow let it snow let it snow

2010-12-19T15:20:00.000-08:00

At the risk of being repetitive i just feel the need to show off the wonderful dogs

who don't seem to mind the snow much at all

especiallywith new coats

our cat Ned however prefers to rest in my favourite bowls!

second day home in the cabin

2010-12-14T14:52:00.000-08:00

The frosty temperatures and brutal winds persisted and transformed our little outside world..as it was advised not to travel in the blizzard-like a wise owl ..I didn't :-)

well deserved rest..

The day offered me another oportunity to connect with the dogs and further instil pack leader expectations on Edgar/Eddie..and of course cuddle and play too! I wrote Christmas cards and prepped them for mailing ..and ate enough carbs to satisfy my winter hibernation ready body..Cooper our resident friendly visitor spent time with the doggies and froliced a bit.but mostly we have been inside ..our skins flaky from too much dry air and heat...

Snow offers a refuge

2010-12-13T16:08:00.000-08:00

of sorts..Although the howling and sheer magnitude of nature's fury made me humble-i was grateful for the full blown excuse to stay inside,make homemade cards,spend time with my so and the indoor furkids. I fretted a bit about welfare and warmth of chickens,pots and goats..but all seemed to be faring well in their shelters-with lots of fresh water,hay ,food and each other

a rather fruitless exercise

A little more cuteness never hurts

2010-12-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

I have just experienced the nicest weekend in a long time with my daughter..She visited with us due to a doctor's appointment in our town today - we had two whole nights with her ..and she was with us the entire time hurrah! My almost twenty year old daughter..sigh..and so much evidence of her spark and maturity..I feel so proud of her!
Taking a couple of days off recently have bolstered my energy and well being also-work and it's demands were wearing on me and I am not a natural,dedicated full time worker. There is a lot of "give' in my work ..so at times I need to give back a bit to me and my universe ;-) ..
my s.o. kindly took a day off today to drive her back in threatening snow squallish conditions..so I am comfy ,warm and content here at home on a scheduled vacation day..spending time with Ollie,Savannah,cats ..and now welcome to..

Eddie ..formerly Buddy

Ollie is adjusting...

a rare still moment..

Gus finds a cozy nook in bathroom

the wonder and transformational power of art

2010-11-21T03:43:00.000-08:00

Showing and selling at a local dynamic art show/sale has been a tonic indeed ..Friday night..Saturday day and finally today I have had the opportunity to both connect with my creative counterparts and those beautifully appreciative folks in my community who love art...Affirming and heartwarming I feel energized and ready to keep at it !Sometimes it's so important to step out into the world and meet your patrons in order to remember what else matters..

showtime...

2010-11-17T04:07:00.000-08:00

I typically get a little excited and antsy when a show/sale approaches..two more days and I am trying to fit in bits and pieces of readiness with my other (consuming mentally,emotionally) work life..will I pull it off? Here's hoping...eeeeek!
The darkness is setting in early evenings with the time change-and my play/contact time with wee outdoor beasties is further limited..Do |I sound like I resent my work life? Ha!

I enjoy my contacts with clients profoundly-but it does drain my life force..Being committed to a time frame also feels restrictive and binding-yet there is a gratefulness in being able to be employed and interact with others in a meaningful way.i am trying to tweak my hours so I allow myself some spaces-to create.. .to be home based.. it means using up my vacation time creatively..w'ell see..

wish me luck!!

o for heaven's sake..

2010-11-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

So this week was a bit chaotic..but the topper was on Sunday when the Yaris got another little shove in a parking lot while my S.O and myself were peacefully and blissfully eating breakfast..Either myself or this car is definitely seriously jinxed! it's like an accident magnet! Grrr..There was a reason I resisted driving until a few short years ago when I had to..
Well I was less than thrilled to deal with this calmly-but did more or less after finishing my eggs!
The layers of tasks to follow are a bit overwhelming to me..collision repair estimates,reporting to police,dealing with insurance and renting a car..alas
but..i take solace and comfort from simpler pursuits..walking the dogs
hanging out with the critters and making art ..all help to keep it al in perspective.
Plus the other driver was honest enough to seek us out and deal with it..that counts for something these days..

a sad social statement indeed

2010-11-01T03:55:00.000-07:00

I am quite typically resistant to malls but do occasionally weaken on behalf of my daughter.it was supposed to be a day of reunion..a little mother and daughter time-lunch together..a little catch up..and a quick trip to a mall to pick up winter coat..When we finished shopping I was grateful for the freshish cold air and biting wind but this is what

greeted us upon return to the lot..!
yes some one had stolen the rear snow tire and rim(freshly installed last week!) in broad daylight and left it jacked up..We were incredulous and awestruck..disbelieving it was our car ..(I had to look inside to confirm for myself re trashy interior..)
it unravelled into a cold blustery wait in the lot for several hours waiting for police..CAA assistance (to help me with spare- we also had lost the lug nuts..)
and created tension between my daughter and I . I tried to remain patient,calm and keep my humour about me -but eventually sent her back to mall wander and deal quietly with this situation. she was a good sport for the most part-but tension was there for both of us..
Almost four hours later we were on the road again with mini tire..but our afternoon was squandered.in retrospect ..that was the bigger loss than the tire.
I had to hastily drop her off and slowly (couldn't drive fast with spare!) head back almost two hour drive to home -as it was getting late and I needed to feed ,let out and tend to all creatures there.
That is the spin off -and something the person who stole my tire could not consider or probably cared to contemplate..
So I have a story..and today I buy a new tire and rim ..

the edge of winter..and art

2010-10-27T04:18:00.000-07:00

Readying myself for another work day..Unseasonably warm and hysterically windy outside my window-thank goodness we have been able to keep the heat off for the last few days too.I know we are on the crest of approaching winter-our snow tires are on..most garden gear is away in the shed..but the mums are still in flower and the grass stays steadily ,boldly green despite absense of leaves in the trees now..
Coping with Twerp's death is becoming a bit easier..the grief and feeling of loss is dulled and although still there.. .I am a bit more at peace with her passing and absense.
The other cats have been indoors more with the rain..(and before)-the cold so there are more snuggles and interaction with us ..
i decided to finally put some of my art on the painted walls and was amazed at how the house came to life..it feels like it's warmth and quirky individuality has returned..

early October snowfall..

later the same day!

healing time..

2010-10-19T03:54:00.000-07:00

Little by little ..hour by hour I am feelng a bit more healed. Losing the Twerp has definitely put a wedge into daily living that feels like a darkness below the surface. Daily life goes on however,remarkably -and provides a needed distraction. I am looking for signs that she is peaceful somewhere. Hopefully with the rest of my loved ones-and those she may well remember-Millie and Owen ..

The sunset last night was so powerful and inspiring that it flushed me with a fresh gust of wind and helped me to pause and consider the beauty i usually notice and am grateful for.
The young chicks and mama hen were chortling and singing in their night time nesting box and this also brought a little warmth and comfort.
The dogs playing and rolling upside down in the grass.. Hank the pot belly wobbling along..munching on apples..kitties leaping and running through the now tall grass and up the trees..goats whinnying in harmony (well sort of) and nuzzling up to me at the end of their play.

The other night masala (our top cat) crept under the covers of our bed and sidled ,purring up beside me..signs.maybe...comfort..

oh yes.
..life goes on.. I am reassured in small steps

..comes a cloud

2010-10-16T05:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday started fresh and promising..a crisp autumn morning..After I wrote here I walked the dogs prior to leaving for work and was startled by the sight of a kitty lying prone on the road ahead. I knew instinctively it was ours..and the knowledge crept into my psyche like a form of disbelief. our country road is so quiet typically -but occasionally we get speeders..I like to think our cats are road savvy but.. I am still in grieving re our precious Twerp..the smallest ..the most feisty and personable of cats-nestled in my arms early morning hours before her untimely demise. I had fed all cats in the darkness of the morning..and she had slipped out through the cat window flap into the dawn as usual..I have tended to fret a bit more about her of late..as due to her diminuitive size I felt a vulnerablity. the foreshadowing of her death is haunting to me. I buried her after work ;last night beside Owen ..mounting rocks to keep her body safe from predators and ending with Autumn's last floral offerings.. i miss her from in the depths of my soul..How can it be that such a little being has evoked such intense feelings in me?

i have not shared this with people in my daily life yet..too raw-and it is painful to seek solace and find people shrugging off with" it's only an animal" they just don't get it. if you reading this..i know you do..
Godspeed little Twerp ..you were loved and adored enormously.

Ahhh friday..

2010-10-15T04:18:00.000-07:00

A celebratory post for the weekend. I am not trying to wish my time away..just appreciate the peace,solitude and choice of my days off. A nasty cold eclipsed Thanksgiving weekend..but now I can bask in the wellness of just a few sniffles and a resurgence of energy..To take in the last of the fall display..

thankful

2010-10-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

..for my daughter,my partner,all of our critters, my health ,family and friends..for my life experiences and art which has given me a place to express and decompress..my bountiful surroundings..living here in the country which feels more right than anywhere else..ever

the new boy

2010-09-26T05:06:00.000-07:00

Well we all miss Owen terribly..but our Savannah has been mournful also..
We took her to the local shelter to help us pick out a new friend-for her ..and us..we knew the chemistry had to be right and acceptance was key.

So after a walk in the woods and some off leash supervised time we chose this wonderful mild mannered little gentleman(who will not stay white for long in our locale!) So far so good ..we made it through our first night together without event and reminded me there is such value in adopting an adult dog ;-) cats were cautious yet calm..Savannah appeared non threatened and peaceful/inquisitive. he has a lovely calm energy. came with the name "Harley" ..but we may work on gradually altering it(if it's ok by him :-) after all we intend to keep him around for life;-)!

all is calm..

Away..Away..

2010-09-08T04:14:00.000-07:00

My daughter is back at school..her room has been cleared up..really cleaned up-and it is a mournful sight indeed to see her bed missing and all the tumble of things that is hers.Cleaning her room offered some therapeutic relief..finding memory items,crumpled photos..and millions of elastics..bobby pins and loose coin..but mostly ..a void. This move represented a true move from home.Last time it was to university residence-a mere baby step to independence.Now with a certain exhuberence she is making her home a six bedroomed house with 5 other girls..and \i am trying ever so hard to celebrate this passage- not be in touch daily..to not offer all those little tidbits of tips and advice I have been doling out for the past nineteen years. My tether to her..my line of support has unravelled and I have to start looking at it as freedom..not quite ready yet. I can still smell her intense cologned scent in her room..in my car..

Little breaks can do wonders

2010-08-26T16:08:00.000-07:00

the first day with the home critters

taking the time to visit overnight at a cozy cottage with two marvellous and special female friends was the tonic this woman needed. The next day equally was wonderful-spending a few luxurious hours conversing over a hearty and simply delicious lunch at another artist friend's rural homestead..

luckily my friends'dogs provided lots of visual energy and warmth too

nothing like listening to the cry of a loon in a peaceful lake setting

feeling a Bit weary..hmmmm

2010-08-18T03:45:00.000-07:00

Too much has happened of late to keep my typically calmish nerves frayed. I long for peaceful, nature filled days at home. Yesterday capped this for me. Contemplating who I am at this juncture -how much more give I have in me after almost 30 years of service to others in the helping field. Last week I listened to alot of personal stories-including major life events and struggles.I was rear ended in a small yet significant accident while on the job. the same night our pot belly Hank somehow got stuck in a tomato cage while exploring our garden..and Stephen had to extract him with wire cutters..he is ok thanks to Stephen's quick response whew..I just finished book called Plenitude which reminded me of values I hold dear-such as low impact on the planet with spending..looking at shorter work weeks to lessen our imprint. i am trying to urge and suport my daughter not to procrastinate re her prep for moving out at end of this summer-two weeks and this causes me some worry also ..as I am trying not to be interfering while recognising a need to curb he chaos for myself..and her.

I have two days off next week .so this is good..hopefully I can spend a bit of time gathering stray thoughts and be still enough to recapture myself..What next?.....

almost goodbyes and so longs

2010-08-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

a tattoo moment

my nineteen year old keeps me hopping..She is independent, moody,sweet natured and on the move

already mourning her departure in the fall

yet understanding how our roles have shifted

Another mourning..our dear 12 year old dog Owen passed last weekend ..at home..it seems his heart stopped.and so did ours momentarily ..he was a quiet unassuming border collie cross boy..tolerant,wise with a soft way of taking his treats and he gave us many active playful moments and accompanied us on thousands of romps and walks over the years..was a tireless frisbee and kong champ and a marvellous regal companion all around. His temperment became more settled than his sister Savannah..and she has become very needy and affectionate in his absense. Of course we are loving her up..

There is a big hole in our lives and hearts with Owen gone.

may he be frolicing in some field..free and much like his puppy days full of collie spirit!

goat goat and more..goat

2010-07-30T03:47:00.000-07:00

well got to incorporate a little goat into my art now..

the picnic table purchased at a local flea market proved to be a hit

play butting

ahhhh

climbing fun

they like to be close to us it seems and each other..lots of bleating when they hear us talking in the house ..

don't fence me in

2010-07-23T04:39:00.000-07:00

I am finally totally in peace now that we have our goat fencing complete! No more carrying the girls from pen to pen..worrying about rain and weather ..and being chased (even in play) by the jealous piggies..yea!! Still have to latch the gate-but it is a beautiful ,functional site indeed!

a young fiddler at Keady

My birthday was grand..lots of recognition and focus..I spent the day off meandering to Keady market (where I scooped fresh raspberries, peas in the pod and local garlic!..no chickens however..although there were some sweet young silkies...) later i visited my favorite Sally Ann in Port Elgin and found some fun and funky summer clothes and chunky glasses..I returned to have a warm visit with a good friend and much later dinner with my family..out..perfect....

my birthday lunch..roasted veggie kebabs

me trying to be creative in Stephen`s bus

the fence!

flowers that susan brought..

a norwalk in the dark

2010-07-14T03:54:00.000-07:00

the view outside my office window when I returned to work..A little smiling tug never hurts..

Finally feeling myself again after a most dreadful and virilant bout of norwalk or norovirus..Not the recommended way to reduce pounds..and most unpleasant in a heat wave..This terrible virus struck my whole family down like dominos..thankfully we are all mostly better ..makes one appreciate health and it's bounty.

Although the doelings have a romping area at present they share space with the pots -and there is much chasing around and mayhem..While we wait patiently for fence guy to do his thing we have been walking the goats around on leads so that they may have some pasture time daily

they are certainly more calm and connected with us now..sigh

Luna being herself

flowers are awesome..my energy to pull weeds..not

the chicks are maturing into...^ gender still unknown..but they are content thus far

my daughter..bonding

steamy days

2010-07-06T04:20:00.000-07:00

I am a mere hour away from my first day back at work and feeling homesick already. my stomach is queasy too..but more from the heatwave..so glad we don't have a second floor as our mini fans would not do the trick. yesterday our critters had the right idea...

the warm temperatures encourage floral splendour

goodbye little put put ..I know I said I don't get attached to cars but this was my first ever car and ultra sensible and dependable (sigh)

Luna is losing her shyness

a little makeshift rain shelter-just in case they don't want to share indoor space with piggies in day

dirt bath heaven..can't you see now why I don't want to leave?

Stella and Luna ..welcome home!

2010-07-04T04:33:00.000-07:00

After much anticipation and fretting aout proper fencing and habitat..I brought "The girls" home...they were a little overwhelmed for the first two days from the brood here already (and missing their mom and other goat friends) By yesterday they seemed at ease and more playful and inquisitive..

these two are so nicely connected as sisters/pals

Luna in tree

as the boys were a little uprooted with the new additions..I offered a full body massage to Winston

ahh that's better...

is it really a yard sale ?

2010-07-04T04:22:00.000-07:00

Dropped off my daughter to work at this downtown event yesterday..It claims to be the world's hottest yard sale..but it truly is a huge sale of downtown merchants with a little clearout trashy stuff to boot..however on the positive side..the street is closed to traffic and cars do not rule for a day! Also a few local entertainers from dancers (who hip hop energetically and smoosh their faces on pavement (ouch!) to blues performers make the day lively ..my daughter offered a free craft- masks to make for local kids..and seemed right in her element..

Shriners make a wonderful photo op in red

The bearcats..groovin..

Lilies add some nature to the mix

a confident hitchhiker

Earlier I finished up a commission for a friend

and worked on some soon to be etsy or ebay pieces

good day

Ho-l-iday..it will feel alright..

2010-06-27T04:36:00.000-07:00

Life's rights of passage..my only one has turned nineteen..How can it be?

She was small for so long..endless days of growing up..and now

..I'm so proud of her passage !

It's been a whirlwind of a week trying to provide for everyone..tidying up work ends, prepping for her big day,supporting through tears and high expectations

and generally managing our sometimes complicated existence (yes everyone pitches in but the role of general overseer and chief bottle washer tends to fall on my shoulders-and yes I do feel it sometimes!)

Hurrah!!Yes it's here..one full week of mostly personal indulgence. I had to catch myself yesterday..trying to fit everything in over a two day span..and realize I could slow down and pick and choose my tasks and events..What a gift!I will have some time by myself too as daughter and S.O . will be working and we have a window period of 3 cars ..

I have been preparing the property for goats arrival (this week yippee!) and have decided since the fence will not go up immediately in grassy area (he's promised within this month!)I will house the doelings with the piggies until they can stretch their legs a bit more!~Luckily I will be here to supervise and welcome them into our world..the back fenced area should do for now(it's large)-although not grassy it's well fenced and offers shade..

I have become quite connected to my life here..love my creatures and our land immensely -they offer me so much pleasure for the little care they require..

did I mention the truck?

2010-06-23T03:45:00.000-07:00

dusk garden..

Got the shed..waiting patiently for goat fence to be installed..and goat arrivals

Anyone who knows me even a little knows

1. I am a minimalist

2. I am not the least bit interested in vehicles other than for getting me from one spot to another

3. I am pragmatic and strive for simple living

I stuck my neck out a bit here to appease my loved one(s)..need I say more a huge honkin truck has been adopted into our lives

I am hopeful we can lug things to and fro with it..it must earn it's keep after all..sigh

Perhaps this will earn us a little nod of respect at the feed store ;-)

the road home..

last night's sky.sigh

weeding and sketching

2010-06-08T03:27:00.000-07:00

I have been just a little addicted to creating portraits for flickr's group julia kay's portrait party..it's fun and good drawing practise for me

more little rural smalls to sell on etsy..

the garden is waking up!

natural beauty spilling over

hen n hubcaps

the wonder of a single ant at work..

the chicks are maturing nicely..thanks to ma Consuella

The weekend was divine..So much time mucking around in the ground..pulling wheelbarrow full after wheelbarrow of weeds(yes it was kinda fun too) maybe satisfying is more accurate. this offered opportunities for our pots to play outside around the property and to keep an eye on chicken antics.

sunday morning blackout ?

2010-06-06T03:14:00.000-07:00

Anticipating a loss of power any second..hydro had left us an automated message-you knowthe kind-the indicate we would be without power from 6 am to 12..so coffee addict that I am I rose at 5:30 to feed all the animals make my bodum coffee..nd hastily hop in shower to wake myself thoroughly..so it's 6:14 and the juice is still on..hmmm

This morning offers endless electricity free opportunities..so..I might
read

draw

too rainy to walk

go back to sleep (if my jittery caffeine fueled self will permit!

just think

tidy up ..a little

cuddle a cat

sigh

Goatlove

2010-06-02T16:36:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me even a little bit knows that I have been enamoured (obsessed?) with goats for so many years(.Ok so I haven't been open about this aspect of my character..this naggingly hopeful wish.) Keeping them has been only a fantasy while living in an urban setting but finally feels possible here on our country plot. Hank and Winston(the pots) were our choices (well my choice) last summer and have been a rollicking adventure all around.

last night i drove for almost an hour and a half to check out these two lovelies..two doelings not yet ready to part from their mama-but soon to be ours to care for

i am investigating extra fencing options now-and readying their new home to be as goat friendly as possible

The family who have raised them were most gracious and helpful..a good feeling all around

I can't wait

;

looking forward to the journey

poultry show and harmony

2010-05-31T03:57:00.000-07:00

visited the owen sound poultry and pigeon club's show this weekend and saw some of the most interesting display of pampered feathered fowl..

huge roos

the judge took his job quite seriously

so lovely!

before I went to the show it was off to the dump and this wonderful gate always catches my eye...

oh I rescued a turtle crossing the road too ..but no time for a photo;-)

that's more like it..

2010-05-19T04:06:00.000-07:00

Spring has finally arrived in earnest..yeaaa..My blackfly bites are evidence of this. We can all frolic out of doors andThe Boys(Hank and Winston) are more at ease with being with us -understanding we are treat sources ..my fear of them straying is lessened as they seem to find ample entertainment and fresh grass to munch around the house.NonethelessI still keep one eye open ..and only let them out when I am around to monitor escapism or potential piggie mayhem.I completed the chicken wire surplus fencing on the smaller outdoor enclosure for mom and three chicks-hence blackfly bites..I cavalier -ly worked at dusk with capris and a t-shirt..silly me!

Taking two weekdays off was a blessing indeed..Time is precious -and lots to do around this property when the weather permits it..The sun is a tonic as and the colourful nature display cannot be missed for it's splendid and sudden growth spurt of blossoms and green

Beautiful days of rest ..and..

2010-05-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

inside view of the barn..

a fancy wire hen

a primitive milking stool

something folkloric

Yesterday I took a little road trip to Walter's falls and Bognor area where I took in some captivating scenic hills and gorgeous vistas..my mission was to visit an art in the barn show-and lucky for me I found some treasures along the way..

classic laundry aid

a simple wicker bench for our entranceway

a- curl -up- in white vintage rocker

sometimes you get a little lucky :-)

getting down to art journalling..

2010-05-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

sometimes in between blasts of painting and sets of new conceptial works it feels blissful just to play

Oh no..snow..(in May !!!)

2010-05-09T05:54:00.000-07:00

Oh no..was a little worried about the mama hen and her little brood..but all is well on this Mother's day ..sigh

a good indoor day indeed!

Gus always has the right idea...

yesterday I pleasantly discovered that the old courthouse building has light once more (curtains from a folk society stage obscured light and made environment a bit creepy and dark)..so now i feel more at ease with my entrance to my studio..

so back to work...

All in together girls...

2010-05-08T04:53:00.000-07:00

Lots of action in the coop! Three new chicks born and cared for by mother hen Consuella..and the two new fancy hens have bonded with the flock..yes!

even Nala is ok with it all..

a Toronto Whirlwind

2010-05-04T04:03:00.000-07:00

a superquick overnight to Toronto with my daughter to pick up left over paintings from my show..a walk to kensington market was in order as the day was balmy and lush

first a stroll down Queen West

the landmark Cameron hotel..

a competent 3 legged dog..

floral abundance on a side street

quirky colourful Victorian homes

we stopped in a little Thai restaurant in the market..refreshingly yummy

street musicians extraordinaire..

vintage finds galore

even on a Sunday ..Spadina is a sea of people

home made ice cream for dinner..Ed's real scoop on Queen

gelato gelato...

my delicious albeit commercial breakfast..gotta have oatmeal!

classic toes in the city

a couple of gentlemen on a stroll

posterama

the stark contrast of mall life...

and then.....home :-)

purple rainboots day

2010-05-02T03:54:00.000-07:00

Today started with a much needed deluge of rain and brilliant display of thunder and lightning..much to the dismay of my sucky pooch Savannah..The Green grass is greener than ever..and the leaves are popping up on the trees as if impatient to strut their stuff to the world..i wisely took a full day to reconnect with my own little natural world here and felt nourished by a little weeding and digging..and letting all the beasties out to roam -a walk down the road proved more satisfying than an eliptical ride..off to the Big city tomorrow..so needed to get in as much oxygen and natural eye candy as possible today..

the cats also remind me it's good to snuggle up and just rest for a bit too..

later my daughter and i visited a local pie shop http://www.williamsfordpiecompany.ca/ and book store http://www.greatbooks.ca/ for a bit of browsing ..and then ..home again..:-)

getting to know the girls..

2010-05-01T08:41:00.000-07:00

I am enjoying tthese two characters..lovely hens indeed and bonding well I might add..they spent a little time in the great outdoors yesterday as it was a sunny mild evening ..and offered them opportunity for some bug hunting frenzy and dirt baths galore..Stil nameless..but I am gravitating towards Scarlet O'haira and Tallulah Blackhead :-)..Thiese moments really bring a smile to my face after a serious work day...

not fur but feather

2010-04-26T03:48:00.000-07:00

I caved in and made the early morning drive to Mount Forest to check out the infamous fur and feather show there..extremely dangerous undertaking for someone like me who feels her heart beat faster at the sight of baby lambs,emus,chicks and the likes. However I was on a very tight mission to just observe hens-as our poor little clutch needs a break from Luciano -super strutting macho rooster extraordinaire..So as luck would have it I landed a lovely black silkie on her lonesome and another gorgeous girl who I have to do some investigate work to figure out breed(I promptly forgot in my excitement of claiming her!) the two are nestled in nicely on one half of coop with Consuella (who is currently broody and zen like)

Spring is a bounty indeed

2010-04-25T03:47:00.000-07:00

ONE sure thing about the change of seasons in Canada is the predictability of awakening bliss when the world comes to life once more..buds,tulips ,crocus all herald the promise of summer's bounty

the creatures definitely celebrate this change of season too

feeling like &*#%$ but loving the peace of it all

2010-04-20T15:28:00.000-07:00

Home sick with a cold..but despite the negative side..the sun and creatures surrounding me were a tonic
Finally got their way..

dirt baths are all the rage in April

willow tree behind the boys with special improvised bark saving wrap

aching to get out and eat grass etc..

jackson..old guy napping

Luciano..posturing as always

April..jokester..trickster

2010-04-17T12:44:00.001-07:00

April snow brings...

tenacious tulips

It all worked out

2010-04-10T13:09:00.000-07:00

I have been prepping for the last three months solid weekends for this art exhibit at Gallery 533 in Toronto. Painting, framing,packing and fretting.. Lots of mayhem and scurrying and extra long car rides with paintings packed to the sky..but I finally made it and it was a lovely event indeed! the most beautiful part was that my "people' were there -and although a bit scattered was I ..trying to say a few words to all.. (Alas..I unfortunately missed a few folks in my efforts to connect democratically..) Also the paintings looked incredibly good in this setting and the gallery owner a marvel to work with..sigh..It was most interesting to meet a wide spectrum of people that I would not ordinarily cross paths with too..and their reception of me and my art was gracious and glowing..(was a little hard for me to be a centrepoint of focus ..but nonetheless quite wonderful!)

self portraits..examining self blah blah blah

2010-02-03T04:01:00.000-08:00

I hardly ever take a self portrait..it's a bit odd really to look at the results of yourself through a lens..That couldn't be me etc..but i was at my studio the other day at lunch and decided to turn the camera on myself instead of my art

Feeling a little introspective and contemplative at 7 am..Soon off to work..I so enjoy these quiet moments..just me..my coffee.. the fire and darkness enveloping the room..an occasional cat on lap and scrap with cat on cat..and the moment is broken and on I go..

languishing in January

2010-02-01T03:57:00.000-08:00

a little "Audrey" collage fashioned at a workshop I led last week...

" the Twerp" has grown....

Ned-ley totally settled...and constantly causing a ruckus

Nala..peaceful bliss

towel cat Gus..

..Well not exactly..the cats are anyway..How is it that we always manage to muddle and struggle through January with all it's darkness and ice..But the thaw and renewed life is worth the chill..or so I keep saying.

Blah january Blah

2010-01-19T03:47:00.000-08:00

small mixed media paintings..studio sale..

tranquil white and grey

frost patterns on the windshield

Yes deep in the darkness of winter we somehow find beauty and reason to plod on

A few distractions

2010-01-13T16:09:00.000-08:00

Starting to settle in to my space...

Ii am trying to concentrate on getting back to the new old studio to make art again..

Beautiful winter....but the chill seems stuck in my bones!

ahhhh winter..lofty thoughts

2010-01-12T03:02:00.000-08:00

Winter is illuminating..Causes me to pause and ponder..pay attention to the spaces ( I have so few spaces now I must capitalize on them)
I often worry and fret and wonder if I am using up to much energy with my impossible angst. So many things out of one's scope and control. The everchanging ever swinging pendulum of life. I think my new year's mantra will be to strive to be completely in the moment and to consciously celebrate the peaceful moments and highs to the fullest.

I moved ..new old Digs

2010-01-04T03:52:00.000-08:00

My most recent and abundant studio space was far too large for this full time working girl..teaming with character and soul..yet sadly neglected 5 days of the week..I was fortunate to trade spaces with another amazing creative young woman who requires the space for her voice classes..Ironically it was my original space! So I lugged and dragged and packed and discarded..until 3 rooms fit back into one..It was like coming home...More creativity to follow..

very merry post Christmas thoughts

2009-12-26T04:21:00.000-08:00

early morning pre sunrise..the Christmas lights are twinkling and winking outside on our porch..the darkness still enfolds us..A peaceful day with my tiny family yesterday makes me feel calm and ready to trek down to the Big Smoke with my daughter today. our rhythms yesterday were perfect.no bickering evident ..and even some humour and cuddle time..Our gifts were simple..dinner delicious ..salmon infused with fresh local garlic..dill and lemon and a fluffy romantic comedy movie to end the day with a smile and a sigh.

I am in a calm place right now..may it linger ..

merry catmas..

2009-12-25T12:34:00.001-08:00

merry catmas..
Originally uploaded by heathermurrayart

Ned in pleasant reverie..It's been a peaceful day..lazy ,languishing with plenty of divine snacking for fur and human family..

outside..dec 25th..brrrrr

2009-12-25T12:33:00.001-08:00

outside..dec 25th..brrrrr
Originally uploaded by heathermurrayart

the view outside our window

oh winter

2009-12-13T15:49:00.000-08:00

So long dear Mills

Sam when she was a little younger ....

a new painting..

snow inc..

Yep it's here..I somehow managed to get my lights up in the nick of time and our dear snowblower is truly performing like a dream ..Stephen is quite keen to prove it's prowess and I am a little intimidated..but bound to start 'er up on my own! The job is going well.I seem to be managing 5 days of commitment without too much sense of loss..although snow day on Friday was a relief to just be home and still.

On a sad and mournful note we lost our dear calico Millie to cancer..and she was loved and will be missed deeply.

my daughter ..altered for art's sake

2009-11-30T16:45:00.001-08:00

my daughter ..altered for art's sake
Originally uploaded by heathermurrayart

my little brother and I ...

2009-11-30T16:43:00.001-08:00

my little brother and I ...
Originally uploaded by heathermurrayart

some new works..of my own family and history for a change

How did it get so Chaotic?

2009-11-19T03:50:00.000-08:00

This week just got a little more busy then I had intended..trying to get myself tucked in early at night to reserve energy..

Luckily new workplace is calm and quite warm and inviting.It's just the life that I need to fit into the little spaces in between. With dark setting in so early I don't have time i would like to have with my outdoor critters-and pots have been mischievious with their escape plots so I must keep them in until i can mend their fences !I lost another hen this week to the $%#(* cornfield ! and fox? I won't free range them next year if corn is planted again..too risky and sad!

On a very positive note..visiting daughter in Guelph this Saturday..and showing and selling my art in Local Artsy Christmas show on Sunday..

November to remember

2009-11-15T05:27:00.000-08:00

An eventful month indeed..thank goodness for a little sunlight to inspire faith in the universe! Between vet and car bills our wallets are spinning and almost levitating ..Incredibly enough I am enjoying full time work and treasuring my weekends..Hank and Winston have plotted and achieved various escapes into the not so glorious and bleached out cornfield..filling their potbellies with an abundance of dry corn..I think I have finally outwitted them ..but who knows?! Lucky they are driven to remain close by for their nightly gluttonous feed! last night at 2am I received a call from my daughter who screamed into the phone and promptly hung up..Imagine my hysterics? She texted me soon after to say she had dialed the wrong number,sorry,and had not in fact screamed at all ! A bad dream perhaps? hmmmm..her social life is definitely more hopping then mine.but I appreciate when my lovely REM is not interrupted for folly and mayhem!.ahh long distance parenting!

Well still presnow here although we also purchased our first snow thrower ..so bring it on!

November ..trying to unblah myself despite unsettled weather

2009-11-03T18:19:00.001-08:00

A turbulent fall indeed..errant flu bugs abounding..neverending rain..mud city in pig's run..and huge hailstones today..egads what next? At least we ordered our snowblower!

starting to merge found objects into my art graciously/kindly donated by a dear artist friend

Hanging on to the green

2009-10-30T03:41:00.000-07:00

newest recruit..roo or hen? As long as we don't lose to the evil cornfield

everyone gets along as long as there is food to share

I am appreciating the last days of colour on the ground.
Although the mud can go anytime..

Some cleanup is in order but I am procrastinating
probably in denial about the encroaching season of ..snow. We are seriously contemplating purchase of a snowblower -we have relied on the schedules of local snow removal guys and it's always hit and miss..
and anxiety producing as we cannot budge from here when it's too deep..

Well it's almost 7 am and i am off to feed piggies /chickens..and ready myself for final workaday..ahhh friday! I guess if this was January I would already be outside by now in the midst of the white stuff..

A balancing Act

2009-10-28T03:48:00.000-07:00

Well I am newly ensconced in this job and feeling activated and energized. I suppose I am a person who needs/craves change -and become complacent and dull if I don't enforce it in some way. The constant grey sky is playing on my spirit a little-but mostly because the days are shorter now too..Trying to figure out how to fit in life tasks into a much shortened week. I am also trying to not be so hard on myself..to slow down and take it in..I haven't worked full time for over 8 years..and do not want to crumble in and give everything up. I am the prime house keeper/animal caregiver here however-and this causes me to feel pretty responsible for everything. How to fit in art..fitness.reading? (and quality time with critters) I am determined!

A pink sky morning

2009-10-20T04:31:00.000-07:00

a new portrait

fox on the run..

who's hiding?

local colour

Red sky in morning sailor take warning..or something like that ..I am by the window just as the light starts to spread in the sky outside..Pink ..the fading to a blurred hazy fleshy grey..perhaps rain today?

Created a little art yesterday,dug in the garden and made a fool of myself on the cross trainer at the gym..in short a pretty perfect day..Even settled enough to read a little .with various cats in my lap.

The Bottom of Autumn

2009-10-19T05:37:00.000-07:00

My portraits are currently happily hanging at The Downtown Bookstore

Hank pleasantly rooting for treats

plein air boys

new recruit happily hunkering down in the Chatsworth home for wayward felines

frost

Just thought that was a nifty title..feel more at the top ..but it's difficult finding the right inspiring,way to start here sometimes. We have had more sun here than over the last entire month and that brings a smile to my face and a glow to the fallen leaves. Mucked about in the garden yesterday and had the pigs out for a frolic..Everyone got along grandly-hens,cats,dogs and piggies..as they should!Starting full time work this Friday so trying to capitalize on the few stray moments I have left as a part timer..Hope I can still keep life ticking along in some kind of crazy balance..

Grey is the colour of my sky

2009-10-14T03:57:00.000-07:00

Melancholy Wednesday..I suspect too much grey in the sky..Considering I am generally way more positive than is necessary here is a nice little bit of contrast.

.Don't know why..life is grand..excited about starting a new kind of employment in two weeks..perhaps it's all the goodbyes. Yesterday I said goodbye to a few youth I have been working with for a year and four years..sad. Although we reflected on progress and interesting elements/patterns of our work together I realized it is like a death of sorts..I will never see them again in that capacity. I feel so good about the texture and depth of my work with kids-but I realized also how fond I have been of them -and what they have given back to me too! So many others over the years-sigh I have been cavalier about endings.Perhaps now the meaning of it all is ever so clear at this midlife juncture. Over 20 years of youth work..now it's a new shift to the adult world.

Egads perhaps I have leaped into another major life change just when I am still reeling from my daughter's departure. It all resonates deeply.

Thank goodness for all my fur and feathered beasties who distract me to no end.

I will just let myself ride..go through it all..it's all part of it isn't it?

appreciating the pumpkin

2009-10-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

home made pizza yum

new recruit..settling in nicely

morning sky..two views

spaghetti eating chickens..need I say more?

potatoes picked from my garden

plums from our tree..

Thankfulness all around

My titles are gettting more lame by the moment..sigh..I am thankful for thanksgiving..thankful for the extra day off..thankful for the sun which finally popped up today and thankful for the abundance of life around me..corny but true.

Thankful for my daughter's return tonight..thankful for all the creatures that make life grand-and challenging too

the almost fur and feather show day

2009-10-05T04:21:00.000-07:00

Ned and new prehistoric kitty settling in..

Sam gets to know n.k.

Yes this is definitely better than the great outdoors

Stephen getting cozy

the others are not amused

I was both aghast and facinated by this concept of hermit crabs as pets? Gaudily painted shells and brightly coloured cages add to the tackiness of it all..certainly not very cuddly .I'm guessing low maintenance however.

Now If only more people opened their doors to mournful cats stares the world would certainly be a more humane place

Yes he made it all the way in..are you really surprised?

With best intentions I had hustled myself early on a Sunday morning to get out the door in time before rain and numbers made attending the bi annual fur and feather show uncomfortable ( for me and the wee beasties) As it is only held twice yearly in Mount Forest it is an event that I should be indefinitely banned from-as it is a cacophony of animal sounds and smells..in short paradise for someone like me.

However.I never made it past the end of my road where I encountered what looked like a chihuaha/squirrel tai-lless creature skittering across the road. Low and behold it was a mini kitten yowling and (of course )looking mournful pleading to be scooped. i carefully scanned the surroundings for more ..or at least a momcat..but it was a huge field and no others in sight!So homeward bound and fed and nurtured -ultimately snuggling in with Ned-two travellin' cats with a mission.

So it was apparent that the fur and feather show was out of reach and probably a really bad idea at that point.

strategies a desperate cat will employ

2009-10-02T04:04:00.000-07:00

lots of hissing and carrying on

steadfast stare through the window

he followed me everywhere presumably so I would know he was there

he maintained "the stare" and the other cats were not amused

he even resorted to climbing up my leg

the door..so close yet so far..

The last few days has seen a most lovely albeit deperate partially tabby cat grace our property.

We know he is a stray because....

1. He is intact -and male

2. He has a most mournful expression

3.He is the perfect age to dump on our sideroad -not cute kitten anymore

4. He keeps returning eventhough we have too many cats already

5. He is neither dismayed nor frightened of our present crew of cat security guards

6. He viewed the neon sign that says come on over these humans are suckers for mournful cat expressions

7. He knows it's getting cold and we are more than likely to cave in.

October is for Wistful motherhoodmeanderings

2009-10-01T04:28:00.000-07:00

the adoring look is less frequent over past couple of years..

That's about it..Kinda sad..kinda wistful-Why does October's waning light feel so melancholy? I must say I still look forward to no- more -corn- field..On a strictly personal level I am tired of losing chickens and 1/2 hour of sunset every night..I am still in adjustment mode with my girl's vacancy from the home.Quite wonderful in some moments of singular thinking and shedding of my mother hen-isms.Yet one distraught phone call of complaints,frustration brings it all back...the intensity of worry.yet with the added level of distance and inability to see her face. She demonstrates sadness through anger and accusation sometimes..and it makes it hard to lift the veil and see her struggles.She is an up and down kind of girl and the ride can be rocky..er tumultuous at times..and I often don't read her as well as I should after 18 years. Ah..motherhood!

Perhaps this week of cloud cover weighs heavy on our hearts and minds.

Falling up

2009-09-24T18:36:00.000-07:00

new abstracts to fit my abstracted state...

simmering fresh tomatoes,ontario garlic and fresh basil..oregano.mmmm

an oh so precious sunrise..later now as the globe shifts us into Autumn

a few lingering blooms...

The bounty of Fall..Lovely ripe round tomatoes from my garden..I am distracted by the seasonal changes as I sit by and watch nature remind me we are shifting into a new place..a harvest..a glow of colours .The leaves die slowly in their own cavalcade of colour..Savannah and I walk with limited light at 7 pm ..hastily we climb the hill as the sun quickly dips into dusky shadows..Fall

contemplating neverending ripe tomatoes

2009-09-09T17:45:00.000-07:00

a new assemblage art piece created for a literacy fundraiser..I so enjoyed this project!

altered abstract using transfer of a sweet face

Ii was selected to participate in an art banner project..my banner..jauntily swaying in breeze over harbour

"Lola"

Summer's end heralded by a strong yet fading sun..school buses bumping over gravel-ly sideroads and wonderful red juicy tomatoes.

Wistful thoughts while sitting in my "empty nest"

Missing my one and only daughter..yes even her sassy remarks and her making fun of my "death grip".. on the steering wheel..Who would think I would miss
Heidi's shrill voice emanating from the tv while her face was lit up by cel phone glow..rapt concentration..a contented bubble..She is ready to fly..She is ready to learn and be in the larger more expansive world. I miss her though as my world has shifted and changed and there is a missing piece of my heart.

The house is really clean (it's what I do when I am preoccupied)

The pigs escaped today and were happily slurping on my lovely tomatoes in the garden when I arrived home today..the dogs are sleeping now..not far from my toes..sleeping..eyes rolling in vivid dreamland..calming my soul too

pigs n potholes and rites of passage

2009-09-02T04:21:00.000-07:00

Just thought that title kind of worked..but it does resonate for me-3 days until my lovely (and often challenging) 18 year old daughter jumps out of the nest into her new university life.It has caused me to wake up suddenly in the night..3 am to be exact..and with eyes wide open realize that our earth has shifted ever so slightly . I am typically one who embraces,welcomes change.As I am settling into my more middle section of life my comfort zone is more attractive,familiar (easier) (Thankfully my middle section is getting a little more trim thanks to the local gym)
My personal apple cart is upset. I am tense..have been snappy,irritable with her..she procrastinates ..her room is a huge pile of layered things.We both process this time in our own way. I embrace her excitement..and prepare myself for another step..another me,another her..
Now you may ask..why pigs?
Well they certainly preoccupy me..they are precocious and precious