The Withies

Christmas more than a day!

2011-12-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

I used to think of Christmas as a "season". Now we don't even get time to begin and "they" are putting it all on sale 40-50-60% Off. I miss the anticipation, the excitement, looking outside to spot an ELF, ie. Santa's helper (my dad).

I don't like making the standard , obvious statements...so I won't. It is a challenge keeping Christmas "magical" for big kids and grand kids. We do have the Verburg family game and our traditional breakfast. We are able to extend the blessed family time to almost all day and then enjoy each other by the fire. Come to think of it isn't that what Bob Cratchet's family was all about? So , Charles Dickens knew what to do to keep the holiday alive and good Ole E. Scrooge was able to learn...the "Spirit of Christmas" can be celebrated in our hearts all year. To quote Tiny Tim "God bless us everyone!!" and don't let us forget it!

A wedding and art

2011-11-26T12:16:00.000-08:00

I will be sharing more of the wedding pictures as I receive them. It was a magical event.

It has been a year since the exciting news of our youngest announced he and Rose's engagement. It was with this announcement and search for a venue that allowed for a special vision.

At each idea I had ,Rose and I met and came together to enhance her "dream". The library room at the Governor Hotel was perfect and the vision for an English library lit with candles...domes with flowers and nests seemed so right. These pictures show the embellished books I make...the domes and nest boxes we love and even a Fairy that had become trapped in a big jar (red haired 0f course). Whimsy and candle light a beautiful crimson haired bride and a groom in top hat made for a magical night. I am so pleased to have the art I created help set the stage for the beginning and continuation of a wonderful LOVE story. We all felt it!!!

Eye for color...not in fashion...but my love!

2011-10-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

I love color! Bright, joyous alive color!!! I think I always have been drawn to things bright and bold. For awhile I was seduced by the monochromatic and "peaceful" rooms of whites and creams and in this time of all things white ,I felt a little apologetic of a passion for color . While I didn't succumb to the seduction to white rooms with chipped cream paint, I did sell and paint things to enhance and fit into these rooms and I no doubt will continue.

Looking back at the photos I have taken on my travels I see an eye drawn to and capturing vignettes where it is a color that seems to tell the story.

I am surprised that it has taken me this long to "claim" my color identity! I do have a red wall and russet couch. I hang my Mexican art on that red wall and love it. I plant bright flower es in my garden and collect all colors of fabric and silk flowers, of ribbon and trims. Yes that is me and my love!!!!!

So...what brought about this need to at last claim my " color voice"? While sitting in a movie, an Elizabethan dark movie scene...I noticed on a desk a stuffed parrot in vibrant greens and blues. I couldn't take my eyes of that magnificent albeit stuffed bird. I loved it!!!! It's me it's OK and I love natures expressions of the rainbow!!!! For every white soothing room there is somewhere a room that is reminiscent of the "Renaissance" or old masters. A room that is enveloped in the red of Cardinal's robes and the blues and greens of Monet's garden. I find that people like my cards that show these things and plan to go out and revel in this colorful world. It seems to me that it has taken me some time to realize what anyone who reads my blog, sees my photos has known!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~AMAZING!!!

VENICE

Fisherman's cottage Clovelly, UK

Hidden Messages

2011-10-25T13:26:00.000-07:00

I have been busy collecting and aging books.

I have been discovering...

People use fun things for book marks and leave them behind. Tucked between pages I have found pictures,slips of notes and last night I found a business card from Tiffany & C0. on Rodeo Dr. (Beverly Hills,Ca). Today I found a book report and schedule for some ones week. It makes me wonder what I have left behind or sent out into the world . I also wonder about the people who have read these books and perhaps the families that have cleared them out when someone has passed on. I enjoy reading books from the 1940's as well as books from English authors (Booker prize winners). I am fond of castles and old manor houses, villages and old churches. I love a good ghost story with a monk or "white lady" thrown in. Finding the "bits and bobs" makes me hope I left something interesting for other to find!

To blog or not to blog...that is the questions !?!

2011-09-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

I just picked this picture because I love it. It was taken at the small chapel at Stourhead in the UK.

Sometime I feel lost in "Internet fog". Much the same fog as in old black and white movies I love so much. You know or maybe you aren't a fan of Sherlock Holmes, " Hound of the Baskervilles " and others. I digress..........

I began blogging for sharing my art and ideas. Helooooo!!! I am not sure if I am using the time and space as I first intended. I do much better talking than typing and most definitely spelling. I generally have so much to say when face to face,however when called on to find a topic to blog about I end up on my family or garden. This is not a BAD thing! I am just wondering if anyone really cares. NOT that I care if I am with a friend over wine and...

So to blog or not???!!! I seem to enjoy commenting on face book and get excited if some one "likes" one of my cute "type bites". I can however put my art, thoughts and share the photos so much more easily there...until...they change the format on me. OH WELL~~~~~!! There is one problem...there is no spellcheck [yet].

Sooooo is this the proper use of blog space. Not very profound is it? I do find I have blog envy over so many of the beautiful blog formats I come across. The blog world is yours you computer whizzes and young talented geeks!!!!

Hollyhock House on the Csorner all a Buzz

2011-09-06T17:46:00.000-07:00

Sat in the garden last evening. David laying on the hammock me watching the yard. It's alive!!!!

The bird feeders are so busy and the hummingbirds diving,reminding me of giant bumble bees. It was warm...! There was a flicker attacking the big fir. The squirrels traveled the wires like freeway rush hour and I watched and listened to the morning doves fly from the feeders making a lovely cooing sound. All this activity was lazily observed and appreciated.

We are recovering from a neighborhood garage sale yesterday, not my favorite thing to do on a (HOT) Saturday. I do want to say though it was fun meeting so many neighbors and "new folk". That is the draw of 30 garage and yard sales and it was a good thing that I was too busy to leave and shop. I have more than enough projects~~~~~!

The garden was the big draw for so many. It was so nice hearing the "thank yous" from the walkers who pass by frequently. I shared so many hollyhock seeds. It is fun to think of them sprouting in so many gardens. There are seeds I carried back from England (the Brighton Pavilion garden) and the seeds that a neighbor had collected from the Linus Pauling estate, here in Portland. Those houses have since been torn down and a lot of the plants in our garden have been collected from vacant lots that were awaiting construction. I love sharing plants,seeds and stories. I have an abundance of each. A new neighbor and his son told us his family just moved here from the U.K. and that their home had been named "Hollyhocks". They asked if we chose our name on the sign in front of the house. I said it just happened...people just kept saying "You live in the hollyhock house on the corner". SO...when we were in England I had a potter make a sign for our home. I love it!!!!!!

I just realized I say "MY GARDEN" way too much. David is my partner in gardening and takes direction well (JOKE). I do share the accolades...really.

The Gift

2011-08-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

The garden is reaching ,fading and seeding everywhere. It is a big job to keep it tidy.

I often forget that a garden/flowers/ living things go through changes. Some are less than perfect than I would like. I have spent years admiring gardens in magazines and in classic paintings,often forgetting that they are a captured moment in time. While I was busy with "tidying up", spreading hollyhock seeds several cars stopped and people remarked on how much they love the garden and what it means to them as they walk the neighborhood. The note above is one I found tucked in my door. The people I spoke to today expressed joy and gratitude. The thing that struck me and led me to this entry is...not one person has ever mentioned a weed. Not a single walker has ever not said "thank you"and not a soul has mentioned that the garden looks tired, faded or past it's glory.

Lesson for this "maturing lady" who tends a garden...it's all beautiful!!! Me too!!!! I change with my seasons a few more wrinkles and grey hairs maybe a filling a little more space that I would like. I will stand tall take compliments for me and my garden. We are both beautiful!!!!

And THANK YOU!!!***

A Collector in Action

2011-08-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

This is "anabell"! She is always a star in the garden. As fall arrives hollyhocks are drying their seeds and I love it that walkers stop admire and "adopt" some of the fat pods. Who knows how far flung they grow. LOVE IT!!

We will be using the big beautiful anabell blossoms for Andrew and Rose's wedding. They seem to make it into many weddings,

the perfect "bridal blossoms".

I delivered to Rosebud's Boutique in Springfield this last Sunday. Debra Hodges has created a wonderful space and has added a resale bridal boutique recently. I am honored to be asked to be a part. She has a website so I hope people check it out.

Back to the garden...the air is sweet with the scent of the lillies and the dalihas are getting fat buds. I can't wait to see what they will be ( I don't remember). Some gardener I am! I garden the same way I create art. Each addition is placed according to my"eye" and then let be. I am surprised next year!!!! As the weather cools planting will begin. SALE plants are waiting to be added. I have a little group waiting.

So...bring on autumn. Summer may have been late but I am ready for the NEXT act!

Something Has Turned

2011-08-08T17:16:00.000-07:00

Something has changed in the air, the light, and most assuredly the garden.

We returned home from a delightful weekend at the beach. What a remarkable thing it is to spend time with our adult "children", their chosen ones and our grandchildren. Sitting on the sidelines as my family "frolics" on an uneven Bocce court (gopher holey lawn) after sharing a wonderful "gin concoction" cocktail puts my life into real focus. They are all more than "fine"...they "shine". David and I are so blessed. I was "keeping score" and I noticed as I have in the past that distance can shift the lens,change the focus and make things much clearer. These "Kids" will be able to roll on into the future!

Yes, something has indeed turned with the family and with the weather and the garden as well The first of the Fall blooming cyclamen has been spotted. The hollyhocks are setting seed pods. When people stop to admired them I tell them to find the one they like and WATCH for browning fat pods. Then please adopt them plant them right away and wait...next year they will come. Hollyhocks are one of the easiest plant to grow and they thrive on neglect!!!! What more could one want.

I have long been working with trusting that my family will be just fine. I now think I may not have needed to TEND them so ferventlybut they are my "other garden".

As there is a shift in the air at this time of the year...so it is with me. Families mature...gardens prepare for the next season. There is no stopping and of course MOM sits on the sidelines. Keeping score no, just enjoying the game.

Where am I ??????

2011-07-29T13:51:00.000-07:00

Pathways... whether in our world, within a rose or deep within our spirit can lead us any where. I guess I have been away from blogging on a pathway of which I am still not sure.

Creating has been hard for me. Gardening, a joy has had me noticing too many "weeds" rather than flowers....busy busy busy...with what I am not sure~~?~~~.

Time out!!! I couldn't remember how to access my blog. That means it has been way too long since I have sat down and thought about what I am doing in time and space!

"Take a breath Julie"....look around and give a sincere" thank you". Give up the voice in your head that is (not whispering) yelling at you to do it right...check the computer...dust all your stuff...and alas pick those weeds! Even telling me it has been too long since I "BLOGGED".

OK I get it . I think I will feed the birds...make something (even if it is not art worthy) and just maybe just sit in my yard awhile.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2011-06-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

I have a memory........my mom sitting on the beach picking rocks with my young [at the time] daughter.

Many things I love to do are rooted in past experiences..but I am sure you know that and it is true for most of us. Just a thought and a memory and an opportunity to recall my mom. I wonder what memories my children have of me and our lives together. We don't get to chose them for ourselves or them. I hope some laughs, some singing but most of all LOVE and hugs.

New Projects

2011-06-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

Fairy in a jar...might be captured for a spot at a wedding!

I haven't been very creative lately. Well not exactly. Andrew and Rose's wedding has been occupying creative space in my aging brain.

Here are two shrines I did have fun making. They went to Sixpence Antiques. speaking of Sixpence.....they are having "fair" this summer. I will writing more about that "FUN" event later.

Aptos Gardens

2011-05-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

These are out side in the garden. A magical place. Especially when visiting from our cooler or should I say "slow arriving Spring". Enlarging the pictures will really enliven the space... be there.

We took some time from the realities of our tasks to visit and breathe in the magic!

I think I will publish these and show the inside of the house and "Wisteria Antiques" in the next......

This made me think of Ludmil's dove cotes.

Check out "Willow Nest"

Continuing~~~~~~

2011-05-02T16:56:00.001-07:00

A slower trip to California....regarding my Aunt's estate.

We have spent many a happy time along the California coast. I remember dreaming about someday living in the beautiful town of

Mendocino. I wasn't until I found Oregon that I knew I had found home.

We continued on down the coast,ending up in Ft. Bragg. A lady in a wayside told us about "glass beach". This is a beach below the cliffs where MANY years ago they would dump over the edge...the glass has washed and turned in the surf...now the beach is tiny washed pieces of multicolored glass bits. "Yup" You know I couldn't pass up that and my sweet patient husband...well...you know we passed some time there with a promise to return. With all "glass pickers" and me there they must have taken up tons of glass over the years.

The next day it was on to Mendocino. The town is an historic sight and hasn't really changed much since we were there almost 33 years ago. The town is shown in the opening credits of "Murder She Wrote" and Jessica's house is one of the charming ginger bread houses that line the streets.

As we left town we stopped by one of our fondest memories...the Heritage House is an inn over looking a magical rugged cove. It was something unique in days past. No phones, no T.V.s. It was just fireplaces gardens and charming rooms in acres of "SPECIAL"!!!! Alas it is closed
but we snuck up to take one last photo of that red door. The movie "Same Time Next Year" made it well known in the 70s. I am just full of tid bits of information~~?~~~!!

I will write more later about....gardens,antiques and finally closing family history.

Art Angel Anna

2011-04-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

I have an art angel! Anna is the daughter of a women I dance with at NIA and a young artist,having already a portfolio of charming creative projects.

I have been sharing some of my "stash" of papers and stamps. I am so glad to have someone to pass on some of what I have collected. As any artist knows we are always collecting things that may become.....here are several things she has created and shared with me. The "thank you"card is wonderful. I am amazed that at her age she is overflowing with ideas and passion. She is most definitely someone that quite simply MUST create!

Lately life has kept me busy with events that seem to require the energy I have used in my art. Anna's gifts are reminders to me that creativity is a living thing that multiplies while dividing and sharing can remind me that I can be creative even when I am busy with LIFE.

KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK ANNA! You inspire me!

Foundations and Grace

2011-04-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

Lori took time out of her busy life to come by and bring me a lovely card case with beautiful keys pictured. The key is of course a symbol and metaphor for the project that I was introduced to

through " Door to Grace" via "Sixpence Antiques". These picture are of the training event I was privileged to be a part of by sharing and selling my art. Everyone was so enthusiastic and welcoming.

*********************************************************

"Door to Grace" is building a home for girls who are rescued from the sex trafficking trade. They are training volunteers and bring together resources for the reclamation of these women's lives. I encourage anyone who stops by this sight to check them out and include them in your support[if possible] and say a prayer most definitely for their success.

This leads me to a subject which Lori and I discussed....BUILDING A STRONG FOUNDATION! As we talked she shared how their time has been spent doing just that for the charity and the home they plan to build. What really became clear is that anything we wish to accomplish...even my NIA (my dance/exercise) practice begins by building a strong stable base.Learning a new art technique or skill begins with a foundation. This is true with almost all skills and pleasures. So often I just want to be at the end....setting the strong base(foundation) of the skill I want, does take time...I am usually in a hurry. Great results begin with that strong foundation I want to bypass, alas a human trait does not always serve me in the best way. Yeah!!! Lori thank you for the soul lesson. Patience,strong bases, good foundations all blessings, skills and creative challenges start here...and for me that takes patience and courage!

Family Ties and Goodbyes

2011-04-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

My Family*** I began to comment on face book about settling my aunt's estate...lo' I decided to blog and share some of my experiences. Some people may not have reached this stage of life....I have said goodbye to all of my immediate family[brothers too young] and now my aunt[my mother's sister]. Along

with being her medical representative, I had been helping her go through all the family pictures listing the names on the backs. This was months ago when she was still looking forward to her 90th birthday....boy how fast things come. Now I find myself going through those and more!!!

I am the only one who knows these people. Thank you mom for telling me our family's history...I am glad I cared enough to listen and thus am able to share the stories and "family gossip". These are bricks making up our family.

There were massive amounts of pictures many duplicates!!! More than enough to spread around to children and I hope grandchildren...the stories alas will not survive (I will not be writing them down).

My oldest child {that's you Jay} who loves history has become the KEEPER of surprising amounts of old newspapers and ephemera. Many of these are the letters my mom and dad sent to each other during the Second World War. Thank you sweetheart...for caring enough to store my past and "our " histories, in the hopes someone may come looking.

It was so hard to put the "over flow" in the estate sale boxes....I learned I can't keep it all and am committed to not having my children be left with piles and boxes to go through. As a dealer in ......well anything unique and old and funky, I have a lot!!!!!! I am promising to divest,clean out and hopefully leave you with memories and not so much stuff, when I go!!!

Wordy I know....TMI maybe but I have to go in and finish the job I promised and have started. The things she loved and saved and told me what to do with are dwindling but still not finished.

Good night dear Dolores. I think your wishes have been honored. Thank you for caring for Dad. Rest!!!!~~~~~

Rainy day entertainment

2011-03-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

What better way to dream and travel than to look at Pictures and remember? I have not been taking pictures for cards lately...hmmmmm

These are England...my souls other home...or perhaps it's original home. I spent yesterday curled up with my cats with my English Trust magazine and memories. I guess rainy days have

ADVANTAGES~~!

A Clear Table~~~Almost

2011-03-28T10:46:00.001-07:00

The table is clear. Sweet Thea picked up

spring nests and lots of great things for her store in"the pearl". I have enjoyed making tiny nests in and under glass in various containers. Always a fun way to usher in spring time....even if it is slow in arriving.

That leaves me with the opportunity to begin new projects. It seem that I would rather work on my long table than in any other work space. David and family are so patient with my creative needs. So...on to the next. If you get a chance...visit my art at Thea's and Sixpence[Lake Oswego] Send me strong creative energy and oh yes {SPRING } thoughts and wishes!!!!!

Cat Petting= Joy

2011-03-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

" garden wakens in cold...a sun shaft cheers and in my soul...joy rises----sometimes i forget"

I have an unsettled spirit. I am trying to "figure" it out. That's me "figure it out Julie". I want to just settle into me and wait...not force things. There has been a lot happening lately. Funeral,family and memories. I rise to the occasion, adrenalin pumping...I am proud of that. I know how to "solve" problems, fix things. What I don't know,is what to do with the "LULL"....the waiting for the weather to turn, warm the garden to wake up!

Creating has often taken up that "space". Experiencing a "TUG" to what I don't know; from what I don't know. I can avoid the voice by checking face book and blogs but that too often frustrates my need to figure it out. So many out in the "world" seem to have done just that.

I am choosing gratitude...that will be the ladder up and out of myself. I am going to list and bless each thing in my life and be thankful...even the most difficult things.

There is that "glass half full " thing....OK !!! "SNAP OUT OF IT JULIE" I think I am going to pet my cats!

Gratitude~Happiness~Spring

2011-03-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

"Happiness cannot be traveled to,owned, earned, won or consumed. Happiness is...the Spiritual experience...of living every minute with loving grace and gratitude."

I copied this from someone somewhere. It's message resonates within me today and every time I read it. A reminder!

The smell of Spring is in the air outside of my back door. The daphne is in bloom..violets and long awaited daffodils. All these are gifts of Grace, it is up to me to provide the gratitude for the abundant gifts that are in my life. Often I rush...forget and loose myself in all the "things" that seem so important at the time. Today I give thanks to my angels that I found these words...this reminder.

SPRING???????

2011-03-01T14:36:00.001-08:00

Winter has not quite finished with us! I finished journals while waiting for warmer weather...so I can begin in my garden.

These journals will be taken to "Sixpence" and to "Thea's". I used some vintage wallpaper on some. There are a lot more than shown here.

Next project...nests in glass and..?????

That is Winston helping me>!

Spring Begins

2011-02-17T12:12:00.001-08:00

One of the first signs of spring in my garden is the hellebore. Called the Christmas rose but peeking out here after Christmas has past and before the daphne has begun to scent the air near my back door. I have to go looking for them in the chilly air of spring. Well worth the hunt and ever a reminder... look for the beauty even when life is less than inviting.

A new life has entered the world..a sweet new nephew , sad that his grandpa never got to hold his grand sons. Beautiful all the same. My 90 year old Aunt is preparing to pass...the sadness, yes but what an expression of love she has left me in caring for my dad in his last days and allowing me to care for her as she prepares. The cycle of life and the cycle of seasons all a little sad...a lot joyous as it renews itself. I just need to go looking. I thinks I will pick a sprig of daphne bring it in and let it be"forced" to flower a little early. Many things in life cannot be forced but aren't we lucky the gifts of the garden can.

Day of Love ?

2011-02-14T11:13:00.000-08:00

I guess today is a day to tell those in our life.....LOVE YOU. Having lost so many of those I love I prefer to spread love more often. Sometimes life gets away from me.... and I guess it takes a little reminder . I do object to the" marketization" of expressing love....although~~~~some people have a hard time expressing how they feel! Would those people benefit from telling their loved ones in place of buying cards etc.? Would all of us look into the eyes of and take a minute to appreciate having those eyes in which to gaze******. One of the great things about getting older is not needing overt expressions of love...or maybe after years of dissappointment at not having love expressed"the way I want"...I have realized 33 years of day to day love beats one day of roses and candy!

My Expanding World

2011-02-04T11:39:00.000-08:00

I seem to be spending more time in cyber world. This causes me to try and figure out what it is I want to accomplish. It all takes time away from creating but it allows me to contact a world"out there". A world of wonderfully creative and loving people. People who are living interesting varied and "spending a lot of time in the world of cyber space.

This seems so much easier for others than it is for me. It was a big step for me to begin to blog!! Now it is face book...I am not a good typist...am an "Old Dog" when it come to change and this new world changes a lot and fast. I am forever asking for help in maneuvering all of these new "THINGS" and still have the deep need to create. I guess I will just have to figure it out.

"Door to Grace"

2011-01-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

In a past blog I told you about a wonderful group called "Door to Grace". They came to me via Laura and "Sixpence"and I was invited to share my art at a training for volunteers. At the time I met Teri and Lori I felt a kinship for them and this great endeavor. The girls/ women who have been caught in the web of sex trafficking have no shelter or trained staff to assist in the challenging work of not only rescue but recovery of " person" and self esteem that has made them so vulnerable those who use and abuse them. "Door to Grace" is stepping forward to meet the challenge. A much needed home and opportunity for these women to reclaim the spirits that have been so abused and begin to discover the joy that is a right for all of us.

The event was a big success and I am humbled in the presence of all the people who have stepped forward to face this greatest of tasks. They are truly blessed, as I am to have been invited.

New year underway and THANKS

2011-01-02T11:22:00.000-08:00

New years is not my favorite...shall I say event[holiday], whatever. I have been trying to learn to face each day with a positive "stepping out" attitude. This for me is like learning a new language. Not all of us come from backgrounds that view the "glass half full". Learning THIS and other life affirming ways of thinking/loving/dreaming and being is a journey I have been on for some time and I want to leave this as a legacy for family and friends.

In my opinion.......I have felt soooo much pressure is placed on a single time/day. That pressure has sometimes caused me to look back and see the things that have been"challenges" as negative. I am choosing to change that focus and I have to give thanks to the positive "angels/souls" in my life that love and teach me new ways of being and thinking.

To all of those.ANGELS*** FRIENDS***sweet spirits who are leading and along for the ride, thank you ,LOVE YOU and let us "step out" into a new day each day....how about each moment?

Visions

2010-12-30T19:05:00.000-08:00

Later this monthe we head to he sun!!!!!
Enjoy the dreams of sunshine for those who are from colder climes! A hot buttered rum can do the wonders!!!

Christmas Traditions

2010-12-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

I stll believe in Santa Clause!!!!!!!!!!!

As Life gets busier and the nest is empty traditions change in our house. This I know can be hard. I choose to believe it is just "change". Perhaps it is a good time for us to really look outside our house and ourselves. I watch my children building their own family traditions. That is nice to watch. they still return to the "nest" for some Verburg family Christmas.

The thing I want to remember....for all of us to remember is "things are exactly as they should be." "All is calm and bright." Allow the Grace that surrounds us all into our lives!

Wonder Twins

2010-12-08T14:46:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at a family wedding in San Francisco. As always catching up with family is exciting. More so with this wonderful wedding . I am afraid that last events have not been as happy. What is it "they" say about weddings and funerals????

San Francisco is a great city. We love retuning time after time....but it is crowded. I think We love returning to Portland more each time. A train trip with number one son and sweet wife made it even more exciting. Ah, train travel....sleeping in a closet size space[better than sitting up all night]....walking like a lady who has had one too many[maybe more] a lot more!!! Quite an experience. We had a wonderful time just being together...albeit close together. Great memories.

This picture is of two wonderful women.Boy did they turn heads as we walked near Union Square. They were in front of us as we left Macy's and on down the street. Notice matching pink purses,orthopedic shoes and even in step!!! GREAT! We saw them the next night as we were on the cable car. Boy is S.F. a treat. I think I have new role models!!!

Door To Grace

2010-11-30T08:52:00.000-08:00

You will be hearing more about this wonderful project. I have been invited to create necklaces with the key theme to inspire volunteers and spread the message of this group, which is involved with girls and women who have been rescued from " sex trafficking " trade. I have been looking for a direction and way to use my art. This has been provided for me....Laura at "Sixpence" shared the connection and I met with Terri & Lorie to learn more. The project truly touches my heart! Thank you!! Check out www.doortograce.org.

Things and especially souls are all worth of the art of "rediscovery"....all are beautiful as they are and can become even more.....

Magic Continues

2010-11-16T12:06:00.001-08:00

Thea's in the Pearl...Christmas is arriving this week.

Sixpence is still beautiful!! More delivered yesterday and Laura is creating wonders. Sixpence in downtown Lake Oswego...3rd and "B" street. They are also doing the Lake Oswego Christmas fair in Millennium Plaza. I can't be there but "The Withies" will be represented. Thanks girls!!!!!!!!!

Enjoying the Season

2010-11-11T18:08:00.000-08:00

These are pictures from Sixpence Antiques.

I am so pleased to be taking part in their beautiful Christmas. Last year I had a show at home and I had a house full of "CHEER" from October until Christmas. I love going out to taste the season. Laura is taking part in the Lake Oswego Christmas Faire. Again I am glad to be apart of her display. Thank you Laura and Jay!!!!!!

Breathe !!!!!!*********~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

2010-11-08T13:01:00.000-08:00

Taking time to breathe and enjoy Autumn chill.

Just planted paper white bulbs and in this busy world just the phrase "forcing" makes me a little sad. It seems we force too much...run too fast and don't take time to breathe. This is the simplest way to reconnect with ourselves and let go of all things stress inducing. SIMPLE huh????

It's kind of crazy to have divested of Christmas. i just had a preview of Jason and Laura's world of Sixpence. Again I am proud and humble to be a part of all they have created. Now I can breathe!

Christmans at Sixpence

2010-11-07T11:37:00.000-08:00

Santa has delivered The Withies to Sixpence.

Mon. November 8th 4-8pm the party starts. It is looking festive!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Creative Happenings

2010-10-23T17:29:00.001-07:00

Just in case you are wondering.....busy being Santa's helper!!!!

Vintage trims and flowers!!!

a blog ia blog is a blog****

2010-10-18T09:32:00.000-07:00

What is a blog. I seem to have lost my way in this electronic maze. I spend time checking messages,writing messages,checking face book, complain because I don't get it. I then loose my message and can't figure out why....feel inadequate....call a "child" to help me and then begin again.

I think I began to share my creativity...my art...my world. I can't figure out if anyone really cares or if I am doing it for the wrong reasons. I do love sharing my photos. Perhaps I need to search my heart and see if I have anything that wants to be said.

Fall Fun

2010-10-17T12:06:00.001-07:00

Returned from a wonderful trip to Canada and New England. One of the most wonderful surprises is.....Oregon is one of the most beautiful places and a delight to live in and return to!!!!!!!! Our fall colors are lovely and my garden is glowing.

A cruise is a good time to relax...catch up on books and just plane get to know other places and people. I'll write more about a specialty foods store when I receive my fun shipment, for now I will just post some pictures!!

Memories of Autumn

2010-09-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

wonderful memories of England!!!!!!

Fall Arriving

2010-09-25T12:15:00.000-07:00

Fall has come early. I love the season...but am sad to see how short summer was this year. I seem to spend a lot of time watching the creatures in the garden burying nuts that have ripened on the walnut tree. The blue jays have used up all the space in the hedges and pots. I have not as yet been able to feed them by hand but they will let me stand next to the feeder. There is definitely a "pecking order" between the two females one is always the boss. The tiny finches fill the garden at times. I do live to see them swarm the sunflower seeds.
So as hollyhocks bend their heads to spread their seeds...the asters begin to bloom and at last the tomatoes have ripened...some of them...I ready myself for a slower season in the garden. I am however busy with Christmas. Sixpence has wonderful plans and have invited me to be a part. I love working with Laura and Jay. Their enthusiasm and excitement are infectious. Therefore after David and I return from a lovely vacation, my world will one dusted with glitter and wrapped in tinsel. HO HO HO!!!!

The Quiet Before

2010-09-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

Ever the computer challenged, I am hoping these pictures make it. They don't do justice to the day...at least I got pictures before things got busy. Thank you to all who helped and shared in the day. It is always wonderful to see friends old and new.

Withies Sale Event

2010-09-13T11:27:00.000-07:00

Yeah and yumm!!!!!

Pictures of an Wonderful Day

2010-09-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

My dear helpers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Truly Be" and a BOUNTIFULL Sale

2010-09-09T13:23:00.000-07:00

I am ready for "The Withies "sale!!! The weather is in a rush for Autumn. We were supposed to have sun and I am crossing fingers and toes!!!!

This picture was done for My dear daughter-in-law and "TRULY B". Check it out on line and face book. We women need to support and spread the message of BEING......BOLD..BRAVE..BRIGHT and all the other wonderful Bs we can. Oh yes and of course BOUNTIFUL .

Again I hope to see good friends and share the bounty of my garden...and of course goodies.

2010-09-06T17:49:00.000-07:00

The red carpet is out!! I have been working to get the garden and making the shop look shiny for the sale on Saturday 11-3pm

David and I took some time with Rose and Andrew to sit and appreciate the garden as it is in the early fall days. I love it and you will no doubt read my"gushing" over Autumn and its surprises ,in the blogs to come.

Now it is night night! OK it is ony 6pm.....but WE are winding down and I'll be back at preparations tomorrow. Do come and see!!!!!!!!

Sale in the Garden

2010-09-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

Having a Sale!!!!!!!! Clearing out.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 11th 11~ 3pm**.

Contact me if you can make it....795 th st. Lake Oswego,Oregon 97034

I really am cleaning out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

**time has changed, hope to see you earlier

Sixpence Evening

2010-08-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

as usual I am struggling with showing you pictures....so I am posting this first group pf pictures. I will post picture of Withies creations later...............!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jay laura and you know who.
Ladies from Anacortes, Washington

Kate and Laura and great cupcakes

We had a great evening. Alot of new and "old friends"!

Special Event

2010-08-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

Friday Night 5pm 'till 8pm Reception and Sale at Sixpence Antiques

The Withies is going to be an honored guest. I love meeting the dear ones who purchase and encourage my art. Come to this magical store ....join the fun. They are located on the corner of 3rd and B st in downtown Lake Oswego. You can also check out their blog at of course....sixpence.blogspot.com!!!!

Exciting news

2010-08-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

HOLD THE DATE..........I have been invited to Sixpence to share my creations and join in an exciting evening!!!!!!

August 27th 5pm~~8pm

519 3rd St. Lake Oswego 503-635-0595

Laura and Jay have an exciting store and throw an exciting event!!!! MORE TO FOLLOW!

simple things

2010-08-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

SO, how do I spend my time? Since summer has arrived and my yard is singing and my muse is on vacation.....!! What have I been doing?One thing is learning how to get involved with Face Book. You know me and technology. If you don't well then you haven't heard me yelling to the universe and that is probably a good thing.

I have also been"wooing" several blue jays!!! If you have ever read "The Little Prince" than you might remember how he patiently tamed the fox. I spent many minutes taming a feral kitty. I so enjoyed earning the trust and sitting patiently [not my strong suit] as he came softly.....

Years later at my mom and dad's....we fed a jay "Scruffy" by hand. Well......I have always appreciated the feathers the jays have left me and now I am trying to earn the "trust" and tame the jays. Raw peanuts and patience are paying off. I can sit below and stand next to the little plate where they come to claim their treat. I see her[she is, I think or a young male] now on the phone wire waiting. He/she takes the nut into the hedge....pokes it into the ground.....and then covers it with a leaf. I love watching that and I often find peanuts in my planters. Do you think they can remember where they put them? They must have a better memory than I.

So that is what I have been doing!!!! Along with gardening, cleaning the shop and some "things " that will pop up later on "The Withies" FB page. Oh.... I have also spent time "messin" with changing colors.

One more thing !! We are headed to Calif. To see family and friends and.....go to the Rose Bowl Swap meet. Not that I need a Thing....I think maybe my MUSE is hiding there.

I have to go tame my jay now!*********

Keep on Growing!!!!!!!!!!

2010-07-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

TEDDY ON THE MOVE****************

I just read Willow Nest's blog! Linda and Ludmil have announced their plans to move to another town in Texas called McKinney......also to re---enter the retail world. They have a long history of "magical" retail spaces. I think this will be an exciting chance and change.

Reinventing ourselves and rediscovering our passions is always quite a journey. I have been in an artistic slump and reading Linda's beautiful expression of their journey has given me pause...........the Universe is offering each of us a daily choice.....listening and being quiet can allow an opportunity to make that coice. I don't like feeling STUCK! It is hard for me to embrace being still. This is why meditating has been such a challenge for me.

My sweet daughter in -law Kate and I were discussing opportunities and creativity. She has a wonderful new invitation to "spread her wings" and expand the message of "Truly BE". I realized that fear can keep me bogged down. Fear and worries for my sweet children and each of their day to day lives.I have spoken before......it is the mantra of my life to let them walk their own paths.

So.....the message of this long note is reminding me....L&L are growing and creating. I need and want to be less fearful and being stuck may be just creativity taking a breather!!!!!

Summer Fever

2010-07-12T17:45:00.001-07:00

I can't seem to get my act together! My creative muse has left me or is on vacation. I am hiding out. Even my garden doesn't beckon to me. I feel I should blog but who cares?

I wish I could just let myself ride out these times without worrying and doubting myself.....it[the fire of creativity] does return or at least has in the past. This is sounding dismal.......cut to yesterday with Jay,Kate Lauren, Ashton and "The Lion King" I wanted to get up on that stage and dance with the cast!!!!! We all enjoyed it and celebrating Lauren's 16th birthday! Amazing how time flies........and so my mood will pass and I will DANCE!!!!!

Cleaning closets

2010-06-24T11:31:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining and it's finally warm. I am in the closet!!!!! It is time to dig out the summer clothes and it's long over due. When one lives in an older "cottage" home the closets are smaller than we would like. Alas a trade off......so here I am at the beginning of summer.

The sad thing in some things don't fit as well as they did last year... not small enough to send off but too uncomfortable to be chosen!!!! This yearly ritual. Is it a bad thing? Well let me see is it a bad thing to reevaluate the things in ones life that don't quite fit? That can make me a little sad when it is something I have grown comfortable in or something I felt made me fit the"look" that is me.....but all things change!!

It seems this clothing metaphor fits my life as well. I love the seasons in the Northwest and they require this seasonal shift. I appreciate my "life" seasonal shifts as well.....not so sure when I look in a 10x magnifying mirror. Well....I think I will wander away from my mirror and closets and into my "BLOOMING" summer garden. It is necessary to discard, change and appreciate!!!!!

A Grand Opening!!!!!

2010-06-19T09:47:00.001-07:00

What an exciting evening! Sixpence is now open!!Jason and Laura have put together a wonderful collection of antiques and gift items. I am so proud to be a small part of their new adventure.

They have many great things and at great prices!! I can tell they love the hunt and excitement of finding these treasures. They have also made a commitment to keeping things new and I for one am looking forward to see what they find.

It was fun to see some familiar faces. Friends around lake Oswego I have missed since The original Sixpence closed. Well it's back and exciting as ever!!!!!!

Picture of.....!!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-16T12:54:00.001-07:00

Thea's beautiful store

2010-06-16T12:45:00.001-07:00

Window for first Thursday event! Very exciting to meet and talk to people....lots of buzz and excitement. It is a small world this art and antique business. Talk about the "circle of life". These beautiful slipper and the wedding dresses are from the Private collection of Kathy Zell.

FIRST THURSDAY

2010-06-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

A reminder to those who get this!!!!!!! First Thursday is this Thursday. I will be at Thea's Antiques on the corner of 12th. and Glissan. If you haven't been to a First Thursday in the Pearl disct. ,you have been missing out on a great monthly event. Galleries and shops open ...serve goodies and host artists. I am privileged to be at Thea's this month. It is a wedding event for which I have created fantasy wedding cake an many other fun creations. I would love to say hello and shareThea's wonderland!!!!!!!!!!

clouds have cleared

2010-05-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

The storm has passed. The beach has been washed new things have been churned up. New things waiting to be discovered.

It was a pretty difficult time for me last week. I was disappointed when I was notified regarding the loss of a venue I have been fond of. For the most part the disappointment was in the manner I was notified. SO.... after the shock and sadness, the clouds cleared and I was left with the love and support of so many.

New and exciting things areon my horizon!!!!

Next month is a special event at Thea's store in the Pearl district. I am privileged to have been invited to be one of her guest artists and have been working hard creating things for a wedding themed evening. Thank you Thea for you support and encouragement.

Another exciting event is on the horizon. Laura and Jason Angel are almost ready to open the doors on Sixpence. I am honored to have been chosen to be a small part what is sure to be a real destination for those who love to hunt and gather.......or just plane visit and enjoy beautiful things is an enchanting setting. Lake Oswego is in for a treat. Check out the blog atwww.sispenceantiques.blogspot.com Thea's is wwww.theashome.blogspot.com

So You see I allot of excitement coming my way. I know things always change. I am so blessed to have such wonderful support. Moments like this also give me an opportunity focus on how I want to live my life and relate to others. Kindness and respect,gentleness and truth are the things I hold dear and try to give to others.

a little respite

2010-05-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

At last a chance to breathe and walk on the beach with David. The last few months have been a challenge. The passing of David's father as well as life in general has taken a toll.

It has been wonderful doing one of my favorite things...gathering agates on the beach.

My mind wanders as I try to let go of things!! I am not good at quieting my thoughts. Things hide in the corners of my mind.... life's "blips" and "bumps" are waiting to taking me away from the moment.

I realize as I search for the shiny little stone that give me such pleasure, that they are often found on the edge where the wave and sand meet. Pushed up on the sand by the waves and found resting in the flotsam under my feet. Then I realize they are best found hiding near the edges of the great boulders bordering the cove....I look there and am rewarded. Soon I realize time has passed..thoughts have come and gone. I realize I can't solve my or the worlds problems. What I can do it glance down and often there at my feet, just often enough... is a large glowing and sometimes rough prized stone. Even more prized is the brief time I have been involved in beauty outside my thoughts. As I often remind my too busy and stressed son, I remind myself.....Breathe!

Then I come back to the room....empty my pockets and count my blessings.

New pictures for Thea

2010-05-07T12:24:00.001-07:00

Spreading and Sharing

2010-04-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

I just received a wonderful note from Ludmil. I miss him and Linda so much and love to share....via this magic and sometimes tragic[for me] thing called the world wide web. He reported on his garden in Texas. He has always created beautiful gardens wherever they have set up home. Often to his dismay......as it is for all gardeners.......the labor and time they demand can be daunting.

The report today included one on the hollyhock plants that have been growing from the seeds which they took home after a visit. Nearly 6ft. tall and it seems ready to produce the first flowers. I know the excitement!!!!!!! One is never quiet sure what bloom colors one has as hollyhocks cross pollinate. I know the plants will be happy in Texas and I am happy they are travelling and spreading the joy they give me.

A long quiet spell

2010-04-19T10:50:00.001-07:00

Spring has definitely made a showing and gloriously at that. My life becomes a whirl in the garden and in the house as I am also working hard on my art. With Sixpence opening in June and Thea having wonderful plans for her shop, my mind and house are under beautiful piles of paper, ribbon and sea shells.

We think of Grandpa Paul often as we take up the business
of our daily lives.

Thea's beautiful store

2010-03-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of Withies things at Thea's lovely shop in the Pearl District. If you haven't been there you must go. If you have been there then you KNOW.

sweet spring/new beginning

2010-03-06T12:14:00.000-08:00

Spring is so in the air today. What a symbol of Spring is the EGG. I don't know why I love eggs[the shape] so much. Perhaps it is the perfection of texture and form. Perhaps it is the secret of it's promise. I have always collected eggs of any sort. Here is a tiny collection of tiny eggs I have put together for a new store opening here in Lake Oswego, the beginning of June. Laura and Jay Angel are re-opening a wonderful store called Sixpence. Susan [Laura's mom] and Jean had created a wonderful destination hidden away in an historic building . When dear Susan passed she left a treasure of boxes to her daughters. NOW Laura and Jay have begun the dream all over again. they hare young and enthusiastic not to mention creative. I was so pleased they have chosen The Withies as a creative voice for their vision. They have chosen some wonderful items to enhance the Sixpence experience. I can't wait to see and be a part of it all.

All Tied Up

2010-02-25T10:50:00.001-08:00

I began this process as a way of organizing my piles of ribbon. Then I liked them! I am saving the board covers for art projects. I am hand coloring and tinting the ribbons. Ribbon is kind of an OBSESSION with me.

Nests

2010-02-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

I have been busy. Birds aren't the only ones gathering and building. I have had such a good time making these. Many of them will be going to Thea's in the Pearl.

Some new "Angels" have come into my life and

they are working on a new project. I hope to share a tiny part in that.

I have applied to a new show in May. Lots of new experiences coming my way.

New Exciting Things

2010-02-22T09:53:00.001-08:00

I found this baby on my step. He was rubbing his/her head and fluffing his/her wings. what a treat to watch. Again I am drwant to the tiny blessings in my garden and world. Yipee!!! Spring!!!!

Spring Fever

2010-02-17T10:50:00.000-08:00

I am a little slow !!!!!!! We had a wonderful trip to Hawaii...as life buzzes by and spring arrives!!

The garden is coming to life and I am busy creating. Nests, books and some new crosses. the garden calls to me as I work. Soon I will clear the plants from the greenhouse and begin working in there. So many projects...spreading myself thin[not my figure].

I am planning a class at Thea's shop in the Pearl district. What to do???????? Maybe aging techniques...I do age well!! See I am scattered and can't even light on a single topic for this little space.....The door next to me is open. I think I will go outside and paint something!!!!

Pictures of the evening and season

2010-01-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

The weather was cold! The evening was a glow..... by a fire and lots of candles. The smiles warmed as much as the flames. I hop you enjoy the pictures that follow and again thank you to all who came and helped me usher in the season.

The new year is well underway!!!!!!

2010-01-14T12:16:00.000-08:00

Gifts for everyone!

2010-01-14T12:10:00.000-08:00

Crystal ornaments

Shrines

Miniture floral baskets

2010-01-14T12:06:00.001-08:00

Celebrate the season!

2010-01-14T12:02:00.000-08:00

Glistening bottles !

Necklaces and journals.

2010-01-14T11:59:00.000-08:00

Stamped feathers

An angel cake

Opera cone with crystal

2010-01-14T11:57:00.000-08:00

Room with a view.

2010-01-14T11:54:00.001-08:00

Angel wings abound!

2010-01-14T11:52:00.000-08:00

Afeast for all!!!!!

New Year Beginning

2010-01-04T11:47:00.000-08:00

I have never been a fan of New Year' Eve. It seems too much expectation for one evening. I prefer going to sleep and waking up IN a new year. It takes me at least a month to change the year on things on which I write the date!!!!

2010 is starting out just fine. Andrew has a new job[yeah!] He has been searching for so long. Now we are hoping Jessica will be able. Jason and Kate are rising to the challenges of last year. All in all the "chicks" are fine.

I am trying to focus on goals for this year. I do often hit a slump about now. We are headed off to Hawaii the middle of this month........always wonderful. I will take lots of pictures[new cards] read lots of books and generally be warm and smell the sweet air. I generally take some project with me.....what this year I have not decided.

Good news the bulbs are sending up shoots!!! It amazes me how long winter FEELS....in actuality it is not that long. I will await the snow drops and the hellebore's with great anticipation. I am enjoying the birds at the feeders and dive bombing greetings of the hummingbirds. All in all there are delights in winter.....sometimes I just forget.

Merry Christmas to all

2009-12-24T11:33:00.001-08:00

for any one who might stop by............ God bless you and your loved ones.
The solstice is past ,the day is bright and we will celebrate with loved ones tonight and tomorrow. We are truly blessed and thankfull. I send you love!

Taking a quiet moment

2009-12-17T14:23:00.000-08:00

The season rushes on. I am taking a moment to breathe and appreciate. My life is blessed....not without its challenges. Isn't it funny to call the s**** that comes our way a challenge,but it would be even better not to think of it as "stuff "and just do it with ease. That is my goal!

I have been winding down on the decorations from the show. It gives me time reflect on new plans for creating......next year and even next week. I have heard some new people have visited this blog and Santa has stopped by to pick some things up for those new friends. I guess that would be one of my new goals, to expand the things I put here on the blog....to make new friends and make time for old. I miss some of family not with me anymore but am ever gratefull for good health good friends and the "old things" I come accross and lead to create

A Season Bright

2009-12-10T10:44:00.000-08:00

Blessed and rested from a wonderful evening. Thank you to all who came and enjoyed Christmas with "The Withies". It was so good to see everyone and it was fun to share my "art" with you all. It is wonderful to show Friend's who don't know that part of me,what I do and am. That is one of the best things about doing shows and an open house like this. It is hard when people ask me what I do.........IT ALL..... is generally the answer. I have to create!

New things are in the works. New doors open and the journey continues. Excitement abound in the New Year. Just wait and see.........one thing for sure I will be hard at work expressing what is in my heart.

A BIG thank you to my children and grand children who helped me welcome as I opened my shop and home. They are the next best thing to cloning myself and as always my dear David.....supporting and cheering me on. Those of you who are with me at show know his quiet helpful presence. Thank you all!!!! Merry Christmas and New Year Blessings

I still have things all up and decorated[it may be this way 'till spring]. Many are returning and some have asked to bring friends. More are welcome!!!!!!!

the lights are up!!!!!

2009-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

The shine is on and the proverbial stockings are hung by the chimney with care....and me, I will be ready to share.......all the goodies and lovelies. This Friday will begin the season and also mark the dated after which I will begin to simply enjoy the work of others. There are so many creative people who have been busy and Now I can enjoy!!!!!!!! Hope to see some of you on Friday

been too busy!!!!

2009-11-22T15:04:00.000-08:00

I have not had time to blog or think about blogging. I am so amazed with you wonderful women who keep up with others blogs and have time to spend on your own.........in the midst of life as you live it. You all seem to know what everyone is up to. I want to play... I feel like I am standing outside the sand box.

Things like this Christmas show at my house have taken up so much of my time and I do need to create...but unless I am playing with others at a play date, it is a solitary thing for me. I don't feel lonely when I work... Only when I read others blogs.[Sigh] Back to work for me. It will be worth it when I can share all this with others. Please invite anyone who might enjoy what I have been creating

AN INVITATION

2009-11-19T20:14:00.000-08:00

This is an invitation to a magical evening at my home. Come celebrate a "Withie's Christmas".
795 6th st. Lake Oswego 97034
We live in the First Addition neighborhood on the corner or 6th an E street. We will be lighted and welcoming. My family will be here helping and serving goodies.
I have been busy decking the "halls" for weeks and woud love to begin the season with your visit!!!

I've Been Busy

2009-11-10T16:13:00.000-08:00

My house has been taken over by Christmas!

I have been busy as an elf. I am setting up trees and am making magic happen. I will be sending out notices for the evening of December 4th. 6pm 'till 9pm. Keep a look out for a reminder[formal] and come share some magic with The Withies. I will be assisted by my dear family.........in the house and the shop and........ In the kitchen!!! YUUUUMMMMMM! HOHOHO!!!!!!!

Yippeeeeeee!!!!!!!

2009-10-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Oh ,I love creative ladies!!!! We had such a great day creating magic!!!!! I could take hours going on about the real creativity I rubbed shoulders with today. These are women I have met at the shows I have done. I will mention names later but I could spend a posting about each!!!!!!

CREATIVITY........ how do I name thee!!!!!!!! I am in awe of the women ..... I would love to call them friends.......I would love to be among those you call friends. Sweet ladies..... sweet friends.....beauty is thy name!!!!!!!!! We will have fun!!!!!!!...,..... together.

A Good Read

2009-10-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading "The Shack" It was so wonderful.... for me.......I heard ones either loves it or NOT. I did love it. It spoke to my heart. Just try it and if it is not for you STOP reading. I will read it many times......I can tell.

a visit

2009-10-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

Robin's picture of my wild one!

Today I had a wonderful moment! It was a fearful, anxious moment which ended in a gift I will always remember. The doors to the green house were open and I saw Winston trying to catch a bird inside. I went.........I usually do and he knows it. the bird looked bigger than usual as as I drew closer I noticed it had a hooked beak. I knew it was a wild hawk and I knew that beak on a frightened bird could be scary. I took a breath and reached for "him" or I should say "her" feet and wings as if she were not wild. I gently caught her and looked into her eyes,golden and alert. She struggled only a little and I went to call David to show him. I was enthralled! As I spoke softly she struggled but then calmed as went to find a place to let her go. A place away from Winston. I placed her inside the laurel hedge and released my breath. I felt so blessed....not just because I helped her evade the fate that Winston had in store..........but I have always admired and felt some strange kinship to birds of prey. I love seeing them perched on freeway lights. I wonder when I see one take a sharp dive to catch the tiny morsel she has spotted. What an experience........ what a gift......what a visit.

beach memories

2009-10-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

Still travelin'! We are now in Yachats and oh the memories..........we used to come here with the kids so many years ago. Yachats, a lovely small town still has a local feel and is a little too far from Portland to have the caught the "up scaleness" of local beach towns .

It reminds me of Morro Bay ............. more happy times with family.

Today we walked. The Overleaf Lodge is right up against the path that follows the cliffs all the way into town. I am a beach comber in spirit and fact. I love to pick my way down on the shoreline; remember me with my tail in the air in my garden. The same is true here at the beach. I used to collect agates with my little ones, sitting in the rocks and searching for little glowing pebbles. Sometimes I would find bigger pieces and you would think I had found true treasure. Today I picked agates again. David kept lookout for the sneaker waves. I think he just plane enjoyed sitting and watching..........several families of sea lions were fishing. We are so used to seeing them either lounging on the rocks in the sun or being fed fish in a zoo, and they are a real treat to watch in the surf. More picking... more finding.... a lovely time. I love the beach. I don't think I will ever give up my dream of living with a view of the water....any water will do. Oh well,dream on Julie. That's why they call them dreams.

get away on the south beaches

2009-10-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

This is our first get away this Summer or should I say Fall? It was a busy Summer with shows, visits and a hot spell that kept me on garden alert. Well, seasons change and we had to move some tender plants into the greenhouse before we took off.

David has always wanted to stay at the Crater Lake Lodge. So we spent a lovely night there and were surprised to find out it was their last night before they close for the Winter. The lake is truly amazing. It was a bright and sunny day when we arrived.......... this made the lake a deep blue. When we left we were rushing ahead of an expected snow fall and the lake was a steel grey. Crater Lake is a real treasure and we would love to share it on a family vacation.

We are no over on the coast in Bandon. From 7000 feet down to sea level is quite a road trip. The rain arrived last evening and it appears it will be with us for the remainder of our trip. No problem........ I have some creative work with me and lots of books. David doesn't mind walking in the drizzle. We will do just fine!

Smiles and feathers

2009-10-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed that there are so many times in each day that a little tap on my shoulder would be very appreciated. I have my children on my mind more than I would like. Or should I say I worry about my children......"duh" I am a mother, you say. Much of my spiritual work is in allowing my family to travel their own path and for me to bless them and send them on their way. This is a lot easier said than done but I guess that's the LESSON.

Each of "my babies" has taken a hit by this terrible economic climate. Keeping a positive outlook is a mater of survival and sanity. Again I say"much easier said........." I don't want to focus on problems or challenges. This will only give those "illusions" more energy. thus I come to the reason for this blog. To remind myself and anyone who might read this note to LOOK for and pay attention to the little messages that come our way. I find them in all sorts of places and opportunities. I receive my daily"notes from the Universe" sent directly via email. I also find them when I look down and find a feather. I collect those feathers and keep them in a jar. What is a joy to bend over to pull a weed and find a sometimes, a very tiny feather looking back at me. I am reminded I am not alone. Perhaps an angel was passing by and left me a tiny reminder to hope, breath and let go....!!!!!!!! My spirits are lifted.

Spirits can be lifted and funny bones tickled in other ways. I took Jason and Kate out to "happy hour" and believe me they need some. We had such a nice time being together and catching up with news about Lauren and Ashton[my grand children]. Other things always come up..........but there in Kate's glass was another "little message" or at least we laughed and looked at it that way. Thus the picture of the smiley face you see in the picture. You may not see it right a way but it changed and stayed and morphed into many charming smiles. We captured this one felt "tapped" and realized we are blessed and on the right path..... each....his and her own path.....plus our path together.

Fond Friends

2009-09-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

It was so nice to be in the Tarte flea market. Thank you as always to Cindy for including me. I was a lovely day as well as a beautiful location [even with allergy issues]. We were next to the horse pasture and enjoyed his saying "hi" every now and then. It was as always so nice to see friends and make new ones. I had not had the opportunity to see Martha "Vintage Trifles" for some time. I use to be next to her often at Willow Nest shows in Mount Pleasant. Martha is an amazing artist as is her elf Patty. It was good to see the Christine Lefever doll artist extraordinaire and dear Gregory, her other....Yes a good day all around.

Did everyone see the Oregonian article yesterday? If not.... run to read the great article by Bridget Otto. She has become a regular at the shows and a fan of Barn House and Tarte. The bow to Willow nest as a friend and mentor was heart warming. The entire article picks up and breathes the air of all the creative souls and the bloggers who share the wonderful gypsy world of.......I have not found the proper word for who we are what we do and how we are all intertwined but I appreciate and love them all.

A LAND OF TARTE EVENT

2009-09-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

I am sure the blog world is buzz with the news of the upcoming Flea Market at Tarte. This Saturday I will join Cindy and special vendors and guests for an event under the Autumn trees. I am very excited as I have been busy. I hear there is a friendly goat so my Fall produce will have to come out right before show time.... and believe me it will be show.

This picture was taken in England last year.

Autumn Arrives

2009-09-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

The summer!!!!

The last days of Summer! My yard has that blowzy feel of blown roses and arching hollyhocks. They lean as the blooms have extended to top,spreading seeds along the length of tall fading plants. There are some younger plants just beginning to bloom at the base of the seniors. This and the new buds on the roses remind me that it is not the end but merely a transition. This is a good reminder that middle age can be as lovely as youth. Maybe the garden as well as myself does not have the vigor of spring but is still a joyous time blooming and spreading the bounty.A treasure acquired in the fullness of warm sunny days. I look back at picture of the garden. I see roses blooming when the first snow arrived. Perhaps all this is identifying a little too much with my garden but I look up and see the leaves and seeds swirling and yes DANCING!!!!!!!!!

The Tarte Flea Market

2009-09-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

I am very excited!!!! I am going to be doing the flea market at The Land of Tarte. I admire Cindy's talent and charm and have always enjoyed working with her. We are going to have such a good time. The day [I am hoping] will be a wonderful example of Fall Glory!!! I am getting too excited aren't I!

Signs of Fall

2009-09-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

The sunflowers have reached their full height and begun to grow heavy as they dry. The tiny birds have stripped the leaves almost bare. Did you think you had bugs or slugs? I did until I watched them on the giant leaves. an unexpected rain brought one o the smallest to it's virtual knees. Several of the other ones are resting their heads on the green house roof.

A change in the air

2009-09-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Fall!!!!! The colors have begun!!!!! One only has to look at the things that sing to my heart to know that I love this time year. The leaves begin to change and glow from within. Even the dying leaves dance as they swirl to the ground[ I know I have to rake them up!] but I can appreciate the dance.

A Weekend Away

2009-09-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend in Seattle. Andre was the best man at his oldest friend's weeding. He and Ted met when they were 3 in preschool. What treat to watch them still standing next to one another. I was beautiful. He and his bride,Lauren folded 1000 cranes for the reception.

While there we visited Pike's market of course and the antique mall there. Rose[Andrew's sweetie] and I dropped in and were looking around. I saw a small mannequin and it caught my eye, being that I MAKE MANNEQUIN ANGELS. As I looked closer I started to notice familiarities. My gosh it was one of mine and I saw the signature on the back. I think the ladies they use to come to Willow Nest . We continued on and I looked up and there was another one. You know I still am pleased with them.

The Flowers at the market we amazing. You know me and flower photos. Well I took a FEW. This time of year it is the dahlias. The colors were amazing. Yes I think they will go next to the green house next year. The GIANT sunflowers are so heavy that the rain made them fall. They are peeking through the glass roof.I am not sure the birds can get to them.

When we were in Fremont area I was asking some ladies in Essenza where i should go for MAGIC. They told me about a mixed media artist who has a store. MAXINE"S. Short story we couldn't find it but I looked it up on line and we were so close. Check it out. For sure next time.

getting ready

2009-08-29T16:39:00.001-07:00

I am doing a Fall look for the Lake Oswego show but here are some things I may have there also. Some witchy things are in the works but..........

GROWING!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

A late start for these sunflowers.........they have made up for the late start and he birds have noticed.