Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Shudder



There's a pinkish hue to an otherwise grey sky.  The trees seem to embrace their nakedness and for a moment I wish I could do the same.

A cardinal sings for their food, a welcome splash of color in this monotone world.

Opening the door the cold hits me like a sledge hammer, momentarily taking my breath away.  The dog enters unfazed bringing the cold of the outside in.  I shudder as I feel her ice cold ears.  I'm quick to retreat to the comfort of the sofa and a warm blanket that awaits me there. 

I need to venture out today, to feel winter's rawness on my skin but for now I'm going to steal more minutes inside, in the warmth, in the comfort of my home.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Celebrating Life

 
My friend Kelly reminds me to celebrate life . . .  not just the big stuff but the small every day moments.  
 
Such as in a fallen leaf, in the wings of a bird, in the crackle of a freshly lit fire, in savoring the morning with a mug of tea, in snuggling up with a good book, in sunrises and sunsets, in the magic of moonlit nights, in friendships (young and old).
 
Kelly has an amazing way with words and my visits to her blog always leave me inspired and moved in some way. Today you will find Kelly celebrating her 50th Birthday.  Won't you join me over at that's mrs. mediocrity to you in wishing her lots of love, laughter and happiness for this special birthday.  If you're not familiar with Kelly's blog why not check it out while you're there, I promise you won't leave disappointed.
 
Happy Birthday Sweetheart

Sunday, November 18, 2012

New Art Venue

During a trip to historic downtown Milford I was fortunate to meet Janet and Jeff, the owners of One Main Gallery.  I just fell in love with their space and am excited to share that you can now find my original mixed media paintings and other items on display there.


Downtown Milford is hosting a Hometown Holidays event this Thanksgiving weekend so if you're in the area why not shop local and have some fun with live music and horse-drawn rides . . . . . and of course Janet and Jeff at One Main Gallery would love it if you stopped by and said "Hi".
 

Friday, November 16, 2012

For Each Thing There Is A Season

 
Fall begins to slip through my fingers while Winter muscles its way in, always so impatient. I grasp hold of Fall's rich vibrant cloak but only succeed in dragging it to the floor.  Wet muddy and crumpled it lays discarded at my feet.  I heave a sigh and look up to find it already replaced by muted tones of brown and grey. 
 

I sit here and mourn my loss a while, already anxious for Fall's next visit . . .
 

. . . until I notice Jack Frost, Winter's accomplice has been dancing around our yard.  My mood lightens and I can't help but smile as I realize that for each thing there is a season.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

The Birds Are Back

We've finally got our feeders out and the birds have been going crazy.  Only trouble is the windows are dirty so I'm going to have to get out there and do some cleaning soon.  There's also a lot of glare and reflection which is making photographing them difficult but I'm going to persevere.
 
So far I've seen Nuthatches, Blackcapped Chickadees, Tufted Titmice, Carolina Wrens, Cardinals and some rather loud Blue Jays.  It's great watching them feed and how they choose what they want.
 
 

What feathered visitors do you have at the moment?

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Back In The Studio

This weekend I found myself back in the studio painting and it felt good.  Looking at this shot I've realized why I often suffer with neck and shoulder pain, I must try and angle the work not my head when I paint.  Saying that I used to always write at a funny angle when I was at school too.  Guess old habits die hard.
 
 
Ravyn hates it when I spent time in my work area and whines whether I'm on the computer or painting.  When she eventually tires she takes herself out onto the landing and throws herself down on the floor in a big huff (I have to laugh).  You can see Ravyn in the shot below scanning the room for chewable items!
 
 
The cats make better studio partners as they love to curl up on the window seat and just be nearby . . .
 
 
. . . until it's time for their dinner and then they start pacing in front of the computer screen and giving me lots of nose nuzzles.
 
 
In the shot below you can see an old shirt hanging on the back of my chair . . . I'm supposed to be wearing that to protect my clothes from paint but I always seem to forget.  Thankfully I made it through this session unscathed but most of the time that's not the case.
 
 
What projects are you working on right now?  Do you have furry friends that keep you company while you get creative?

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Lost In The Connection


There is something magical that happens when you lock eyes with an animal and find yourself lost in the connection.
 
I love horses but have to admit that I'm a little scared of them too.  This handsome guy seemed as fascinated with me as I was with him.  Reaching my hand out towards him he was a little hesitant, probably sensing my own nervousness. . .  but then he lowered his head and allowed me to stroke him.  I know he couldn't understand me but I spoke to him anyway, low and reassuring.  His eye constantly seeking out mine.
 
His muzzle felt like velvet beneath my fingertips, pure bliss.  One of those rare moments which felt like a true gift.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Girl Gone Wild


Just a little something to lighten the mood today.  What is it they say about dogs looking like their owners?

Sunday, November 4, 2012

At A Loss

 
I feel as though my photography has lost its edge and the creative spark has all but been extinguished.
 
I realize that things like putting a house up for sale, packing away art supplies, moving into a new home, setting up in a new state, creating a new studio, having a puppy in the house, a torn cartilage, surgery and physio have all contributed to a slowing down, a break in creativity but I can't help the frustration I feel.
 
My head says to go easy on myself, to stop giving myself such a hard time but my heart sits here and ponders if my muse is going to show up again and whether it will be anytime soon.