Amy Lilley Designs

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-15T11:49:00.002-05:00

Long, early morning shadows cast on Sunday.

View from my office window.

The Final Bow...

2012-02-13T00:02:00.001-05:00

Acclimatising...

2012-02-11T16:58:00.013-05:00

View from Target...the parking lot...can you even believe???

Notice Lowes down the hill...seriously...???

A little step back..

I mentioned it in the 'peppers' post, adjusting or acclimatising to living so far above sea level is very real. The air is dry and thin. The lack of air and humidity will most definitely effect you. One of the most important things you can do is to drink a ton of water. I am very tiny and have found myself drinking 40-70 ounces of water every day. (Can you even imagine...all the rest rooms I have 'visited' are lovely!) You have to or you will get dizzy, start cramping up, get headaches, have heart palpitations. It is a way of life. So, we are 1/2 way into week 3 here in Colorado Springs, and I am making the adjustments. BK sits by the sink, waits, and will have himself a long tall drink of water. It's interesting. Here is how Wikipedia describes a the effects of living in a high altitude on humans:

'Acclimatisation to high altitude continues for months or even years after initial ascent, and ultimately enables humans to survive in an environment that, without acclimatisation, would kill them. Humans who migrate permanently to a higher altitude naturally acclimatise to their new environment by developing an increase in the number of red blood cells to increase the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood, in order to compensate for lower levels of oxygen in the air.'

These pics, are you ready, were taken from the parking lot of our Super Target (love super Target)! This is the range of mountains I wake up to every morning. I am finding that the first word out of my mouth in the morning seems to be, 'Wow'...everyday.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T12:53:00.003-05:00

Big and Little in their new Colorado portraits...

This is for you Sal and Marilynn!!

WHAT??????

2012-01-31T11:37:00.011-05:00

Red and yellow peppers, growing green!!!

And you thought that my first post after moving to the ever lover-ly Colorado Springs would be pictures of the grandeur of the mountains in the morning and the majestic sunsets which really do take your breath away or the details of the plane ride out here, and how well (whew) the kitties fared, or how Edward's blood sugars were all over the place the first week we arrived, or that you really do have to drink alot of water to stay hydrated, or that unpacking is much more fun than packing (thank you Ann), or that I am thrilled beyond words to have a closet in my office. I could tell you all about that, but, whaaaat???? Yes, people I am posting pics of peppers. For those of you who go food shopping, you know that the cost of fresh produce has sky-rocketed. Especially, peppers...the orange and yellow peppers are like investing in gold. So, when I walked into our 'new' supermarket and saw red, yellow and orange peppers on sale, 10 for $10, my heart sang. I cut them from the top, like a pumpkin, shake out all the seeds which are left, then slice them open, cut out the veins, slice them into 6-8 pieces, and simply roast them w/ some olive oil until they are tender, and crisp all at the same time. It is like eating candy, they are so sweet, and 'au natural'. When I cut open 2 of the peppers, I was a-gog, when I pulled out peppers growing inside of peppers...they were so beautiful, I could not pass up the opportunity to take some pics. Hence, my first post from Colorado, peppers growing inside of peppers. There is plenty of time for all those mountain shots. From what I can tell, they are not going anywhere, anytime soon......more to come!!

Beam Me Up Scotty....

2012-01-15T11:15:00.009-05:00

If it were only that simple...I had to buy these 'under the seat, airplane approved' cat carriers for Big and Little. Big Kitty is a relatively good traveler. But Little Kitty is a crazy gray cat and the second she lays eyes on the carrier, she screams her pretty head off. I bought her a collar w/ lavender, chamomile, and pheromones. The collar mimics the pheromone that the mother cat produces to calm and reassure her kittens. Cats recognize these pheromones throughout life. It mimics the natural way to help cats cope w/ new and fearful situations. I was skeptical. But, I have to say, I can sense a marked difference. Last night she made herself comfy in the open carrier and stayed for hours. Obviously, a great photo op, I placed BK in his carrier, and the light caught his eyes...well, you see...apparently, if they were really being beamed up by Scotty, it looks like LK was left behind....hmmmmmm.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T11:51:00.001-05:00

Pikes Peak window from Garden of the Gods

One more week!!!!!

The Gift

2012-01-07T19:08:00.015-05:00

Okay, it happened. I was driving back from U-haul after picking up yet another round of packing supplies, and then it happened...I wasn't even listening to any music. That sudden rush, of feeling totally overwhelmed bubbled over and I literally had to pull over. I called Jimmy and he so kindly said a prayer and calmed me down. I told him I thought about going to see my friend Claire, but I was sure that even w/ a mere 'hello', I would burst into tears. As a friend, he said, she would want me to come and see her in her antique shop. I did a blog post about Claire in October of 2009. She has what I think is one of the most beautiful and genuine antique shops in all of Rhode Island. Antique Haven. An eye full would be an understatement. I leave Rhode Island w/ numerous items from her shop, from an old and very delicate amethyst ring, to a couple of old framed prints and a large Franciscan water pitcher, just to name a few...there's more...hey we've been here for 10 years. Anywho, I went to see Claire, as predicted, I burst into tears the second I saw her, we hugged, and then we just talked and talked and talked, which is what we always do when we see one another. When we were both sensing that it was time for me to leave, she looked at me and she said, 'From my heart, you are like a daughter to me, please pick anything from the store and take it w/ you, as a gift.' I did not question her sincerity. I slowly started walking around the store (feeling the fullness of the moment I thought of Indiana Jones picking the right cup...remember that???). I picked this vase. It stands about 10" tall.

It is perfect, I love it and I love my very dear friend Claire.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T11:12:00.002-05:00

The Armington House, circa 1868
I took this pic the night of the big storm in December of 2007....a favorite!!

Hello 2012 and Goodbye to Matunuck Beach....

2012-01-01T16:56:00.022-05:00

Pointed in the right direction...the Pacific...really???

Getting ready to be washed away by the rising tide....just like that...gone...

Walking towards Pt. Judith...so beautiful!

And the clouds started rolling in by the time we headed back...still so breathtaking...and today, loud..

Stunning food...there's no other way to describe it...in 2 short years since opening, it has left a lasting impression....

Farming the oysters...we were more fish n' chips ( fries and salad, cole slaw and bread w/ lavender dipping oil...) and muscles ...I can still taste it all...

January 1, 2012....a mild day in the northeast. The sun was out. Jimmy leaves tomorrow, again, for Colorado, now waiting for Edward and I to fill our new home in a couple of weeks. We seized the day (much better than bubble wrap galore and tape), and went to the beach we have loved so much over these past 10 years. We have spent what can only be described as some of the most perfect days of our lives @ the shore. We took the long walk to Pt. Judith...much easier when not wearing winter garb, however, no less beautiful. Along the way we picked up a sizable rock, took it w/ us to Pt. Judith, said a prayer and threw it into the water!! It was a symbol of all that was, and all which is yet to be, as we move out West. C.B. Murray posted a scripture on his Facebook wall which says it all:“Thus says the Lord who made it, the Lord who formed it to establish it (the Lord is His name): ‘Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.’ Jeremiah 33:2

We were starving after that long walk and had an excellent meal @ the Matunuck Oyster Bar. It was the perfect end to a new beginning. Welcome 2012.....

Ebbing into 2012...

2011-12-31T11:10:00.002-05:00

A very happy, and let's all stay healthy and safe in 2012!!!

Happy New Year!!!

Mary Had a Baby

2011-12-24T17:37:00.005-05:00

'Sweet little Jesus boy

They made you be born in a manger
Sweet little holy child
We didn't know who you were
Didn't know you'd come to save us Lord
To take our sins away
Our eyes were blind, we could not see
We didn't know who you were

Long time ago
You were born
Born in a manger Lord
Sweet little Jesus boy
The world treats you mean Lord
Treats me mean too
But that's how things are down here
We don't know who you are

You have told us how
We are trying
Master you have shown us how
Even when you were dying
Just seems like we can't do right
Look how we treated you
But please Sir forgive us Lord
We didn't know it was you

Sweet little Jesus boy
Born a long time ago
Sweet little holy child
We didn't know who you were'

lyrics by Robert MacGimsey, 1934

The Miracle of the Oil, Happy Chanukah

2011-12-20T11:58:00.004-05:00

Happy Chanukah!

2200 hundred years ago, without the wonders of modern technology, and social networks, like Facebook and Twitter, a small group of Jewish rebels, led by the Maccabee band of Brothers (love those boys) stood up to the Greek kings who were forcing the Jewish people to worship their gods and Greek idols in the Holy Temple of Jerusalem....hence, the wondrous resistance and the miracle of the purified oil...given all the upheaval we have seen in the mid-East this past year, this story may sound somewhat familiar...here is their story:

About 2200 years ago, Greek kings, who reigned from Damascus, ruled over the land of Judea and the Jews living there. One Greco-Syrian King, Antiochus Epiphanes, forbade the Jewish people from praying to their God, practicing their customs, and studying their Torah. Antiochus forced the Jews to worship the Greek gods. It is said that he placed an idol of the Greek God Zeus on the alter in the Holy Temple of Jerusalem. In response to this persecution, Judah Maccabee and his four brothers organized a group of resistance fighters known as the Maccabees. They fought against paganism and oppression.

The tenacity of the rebels, which came from their steadfast faith in one God, is one reason this military victory has been so celebrated by Jews in future generations. In one battle near Beit Horon, Judah's small army is intimidated by the size of the enemy army and Judah tells them to have faith that God is on their side:

"But when they saw the army coming to meet them, they said unto Judah: 'What? shall we be able, being a small company, to fight against so great and strong a multitude? ...' And Judah said: 'It is an easy thing for many to be shut up in the hands of a few, and there is no difference in the sight of Heaven to save by many or by few; for victory in battle standeth not in the multitude of an host, but strength is from Heaven. They come unto us in fullness of insolence and lawlessness, to destroy us and our wives and our children, for to spoil us; but we fight for our lives and our laws. And He Himself will discomfort them before our face; but as for you, be yet not afraid of them."
(The First Book of Maccabees)

Against great odds, after three years of fighting, the Maccabees succeeded to drive the Greco-Syrians out of Judea. Chanukah proclaims the message of the prophet Zachariah: "Not by might, not by power, but by My spirit." Chapter 4:6

The Maccabees reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. They cleaned the Temple, removing the Greek symbols and statues. When Judah and his followers finished cleaning the temple, they rededicated it. On the 25th day of the month of Kislev in 164 BCE, the Temple was purified and rededicated. According to tradition, when the Maccabees entered the Holy Temple, they discovered that the Greco-Syrians had defiled the oil which was used to Temple's menorah. Only one vat of purified oil remained - enough for only one day. It would take the Jews a week to process more purified oil. Then a miracle occurred. The Maccabees lit the menorah and it burned for not one, but eight days, by which time the new, purified oil was ready. This is why the Chanukah Menorah has eight candles (not including the shamash candle used to light the others) and one reason why Jews celebrate Chanukah for eight days!!!

Photo Ready.....

2011-12-18T17:08:00.003-05:00

Little Kitty, aka, Girl Whirl has been handing me some excellent photo 'opps', while packing, re-arranging...taking out, bringing in. In this case, some of my small, weather worn terracotta pots, which have been brought in. She was sniffing around, even though they are empty. However, w/ her keen sense of smell, she knew that 'something' green had been growing in there...good enough to eat, and then probably give right back...ewwww, gross....but there she was, photo ready, picture perfect. Thank you Little girl cat!!

Boathouse Craft Fair...

2011-12-11T14:58:00.027-05:00

The Roving Spinners
Hand-woven and hand-knit clothing and accessories
(This piece looked so beautiful w/ my framed photos...couldn't resist)

Jillian Barber
Fantasy ceramic sculpture or mermaids, seahorses, fish and mythical animals.

Made by Handmade Gifts
The adorable Destinee, holding down the fort with her aunt for pet sleeping bags for our furry companions, catnip toys and dog toys

K. Bellotti Designs
Handmade scarves and tote bags in luxurious fabrics in an affordable selection. Personal care products to keep you beautifully serene.

Kanti Organics/Innisfree Body Works
100% Natural and organic skin and body products and Innisfree Body Works

Micki Whelan Studio
“The Skinny Series” of lightweight handmade metal earrings and bangles.

Daniel Reade Studios
Hand blown glass in exciting colors with an affordable selection of original designs.

...and on it's own...this classic piece from the Roving Spinners

...happily showing some of my new pieces, now neatly packed away for the move to Colorado!!!!

It was my last show in Rhode Island. I started selling jewelry out of the house on Albert, when we first moved to Rhode Island, and it organically evolved into showing my wares at craft shows round and about Rhode Island along with the hundreds and hundreds of other gifted artists and crafts people from the New England area. My virgin voyage with the photos was 4 years ago at the Boathouse, and the rest, as they say is history. This is a small sampling of the beautiful work from yesterdays' vendors.

Many thanks to Margarita, the enormously gifted jewelry maker from her own studio,
Margarita Designs, fun and feminine vintage glass jewelry designs with contemporary flair, for orchestrating such a welcoming event!!

WillOaks Studio

2011-12-05T09:19:00.005-05:00

Chartreuse Pearl Necklace

Blue Pearls and Silk Long Crocheted Necklace or Bracelet Chain

With my impending move, I have stepped back from my own Holiday sales (short of the show on the 10th), and I thought it would be nice to share some of my favorite pieces from some of the gifted artists I have met on the blogs and on Etsy.

Meet Karen from the gorgeous WillOaks Studio:
''After many years of wandering the U.S. and the world, I landed back where I began: on the family farm here in northern Illinois. It’s so beautiful here and nature has long inspired and informed my artwork in many media: sculpture, papermaking, photography, and for the past few years-wearable art. WillOaks is the name of my studio, and our farm & campground.
Wearable art has been a natural extension for me because I loved to wear jewelry. Making it to suit my vision and ideas has been fascinating. Most of my pieces are original because that's how I think....and I am happy to share them with anyone who would like to be different from "the crowd."
(click on photos for prices)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-30T12:04:00.004-05:00

'Windblown Wild Horse'

Signed 5X7 Fine Art Photograph
Greg Ledermann

I Will Miss These Beautiful Views...

2011-11-26T17:01:00.007-05:00

Looking West from the Pawtuxet Cove, late summer...

...and today, boats wrapped in plastic for the cold months ahead in the Pawtuxet Cove Marina

Yes, it's a great adventure, moving to Colorado, but I will sorely miss the beautiful landscape of our jewel of a Village, Pawtuxet. Over these past 10 years, I have never tired of the walks by the water down to the Cove, high tide and low (like today), in every season, including the shot of the boats being 'wrapped' up for the cold winter ahead @ the Pawtuxet Cove Marina. Thank goodness I have a wonderful digital record of the changing seasons and landscape, whatever has caught my eye round and about, along with the unbridled freedom of posting them here, on my blog!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T10:24:00.003-05:00

'Daughter, Linda at Thanksgiving Table'

Norman Rockwell, 1941

Be grateful......

Rocky Mountain High in Colorado

2011-11-21T09:50:00.015-05:00

View from upstairs...every morning, waking up to this!!!

Outside the front door...yikes!

Partial pic of our new home...lovely, open, new, green, earth friendly!!

Gas fireplace in the living room makes an open area very, very cozy...love the light!!

Jimmy has something to sit on...lol!!!

The kitchen is already the central gathering place for eating, connecting, hanging out...looking forward to spending alot of time here and feeding all the company we expect to see (hint hint)!

A great bright morning, feeling right at home!!!

So, it's official. We're moving to Colorado Springs. Jimmy has a new job with The Springs Church.

He has been in Colorado for a few weeks now, jumping into his new work, feet first. We are very excited and happy for the 'big adventure'. Edward and I just returned from a long weekend, and we nuzzled into our new house, met some wonderful people, marveled at the view of the mountains from our street and house. There is so much to do over the next few weeks...packing up this house, (our cozy Dutch Colonial), I am doing one Holiday show at the Aspray Boat House on December 10th, so, I have plenty to do to have enough stock, we have to get Edward packed up from his apartment in Boston, all mixed in with birthdays, Chanukah, Christmas, and the New Year. One day at a time is the only way to approach the transition, having faith that we are, without a doubt headed in the right direction, having 'committed our way unto the Lord', Psalm 37:5. Will keep you posted, as they say.......

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T09:06:00.006-05:00

'Blue Dancers'

Pastel on paper, 1899

Pushkin Museum, Moscow, Russia

Edgar Degas

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T09:55:00.004-05:00

My Gram, Jennie Klein
1920's

Wendel Photographers
13 Avenue A
NYC

Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-02T09:55:00.002-04:00

'The Whirlwind'

from the Archives, mixed media
Amy Lilley

Mmmmmm GOOD!!!

2011-10-30T16:56:00.009-04:00

Recipe from my Gram, passed down.

71/2 quarts salted water
cleaned chicken
package of parsnips (about 5)
2 medium turnips (yellow would be a treat)
carrots..can't have too many
3 or 4 stalks of celery (I left it out this time)
dill dill and more dill
flat leaf parsley...2 bunches is good
1 medium onion

boil water
cut onion into quarters and stuff into chicken
tie up chicken so onions stay 'in'
peel and slice parsnips
peel and thinly slice turnips
peel and slice carrots
slice (otherwise missing) celery
cut stems off of dill and parsley, rough cut

Carefully place chicken in boiling water
Skim off all the 'debris' from the chicken...this may take a few minutes
dump in parsnips, turnips, carrots first
'layering', then dump in the celery, dill and parsley

Cover and simmer for 2 hours. Let rest for 1/2 hour...remove the chicken!
Make thin egg noodles and enjoy!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-25T09:58:00.004-04:00

“This morning I saw the country from my window a long time before sunrise, with nothing but the morning star, which looked very big.’

'The Starry Night'
Saint-Remy, France, 1889
Vincent Van Gogh

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T10:05:00.005-04:00

Banner, with loving signatures for the JDRF, RI Branch Office

'Walk for a Cure'
Roger Williams Park, October 16, 2011

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T09:31:00.005-04:00

This one is for Yo Mama...here's to a mighty gorgeous Autumn!!
(Miss Seven-Striper and Lilley-hope and Yo Mama)
Schartner Farms, RI

Walk for a Cure

2011-10-04T09:55:00.010-04:00

Edward Lilley

The Rhode Isalnd Branch of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or JDRF, will hold it's annual 'Walk for a Cure', in the ever beautiful Roger Williams Park on Sunday, October 16th. As a family we have been raising money for JDRF for the past 7 years. We are humbled by the generous hearts who have supported us over these years to help us raise over $40,000! Edward was diagnosed with Type 1 or Juvenile Diabetes when he was 12 1/2. Our lives changed on a dime that day. With the support of the outstanding community we have met through JDRF, we have great hope for the future with leaps forward in cutting edge technology from the pump, continuous glucose monitor, and the up and coming technology of the artificial pancreas. (I am just skimming the surface!)

Edward graduates from college in December and has done an awesome, exemplary, most excellent job of managing his daily health care, while away from home. This is no small task. Type 1 diabetes is 24/7. His Dad and I are proud beyond words.

Here is a link to Edward's personal fund raising page.

Blowing of the Shofar!

2011-09-28T10:46:00.005-04:00

A shofar is an instrument made from the horn of a ram or other kosher animal. It was used in ancient Israel to announce the New Moon (Rosh Chodesh) and call people together. It was also blown on Rosh Hashanah, marking the beginning of the New Year, signifying both need to wake up to the call to repentance, and in connection with the portion read on the second day of Rosh Hashanah, the Binding of Isaac (Genesis, chapter 22) in which Abraham sacrifices a ram in place of his son, Isaac.

L'shanah Tovah!!
A blessed, healthy and prosperous 5772!

Here, There, Everywhere....

2011-09-25T16:15:00.010-04:00

Greek Oregano and the multi-colored Roma's

Roma's of various shades, shapes and sizes...

Hydrangea, soon to be cut back and dried....

The new Girl on the block...she talks and she talks and she talks...

Pawtuxet Cove...picture perfect..

Pawtuxet Cove, looking North...more picture perfect...wish you could smell the sweet/pungent aroma of low tide...

Dismantling the garden, stake by stake, initially takes a bit of courage, but as with planting, once you get going, you know that is is a good thing. The cherry tomato stems and leaves had gone from brown and falling off, to moldy, to still growing. I pulled them all. What was amazing to me were the depth of the roots...who knew? The Roma's still have some life in them, so, for the most, they will stay for a wee bit longer....and of course, the Greek Oregano gives and gives. I have a new feline friend from down the street who kept me company all the while. She is a real beauty, extremely vocal (did I mention that she is a she?).

The early fall colors and foliage are not to be missed, so here are a few photos from round and about town, here, there, everywhere...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T09:00:00.008-04:00

'Riding the Wave'

From the archives, prismacolor pencil
Amy Lilley

And They Grew....

2011-09-17T17:47:00.015-04:00

Late May planting...will they actually grow??

Late September...YES...and to overflowing!!!

Hostas filling out more and more every Summer..

Late Summer blooms..ahhhhh

As Summer (sadly) draws to a close (sigh), I simply had to show you what happened to the deep pink colored Impatience I planted in the three window boxes. They did not disappoint, as they grew up, and then flowed over, making a beautiful carpet of color. Their rich color was such a great contrast with the forest green of the boxes and shutters, all highlighted by the pale green of the house. They usually grow their own pods full of seeds which can be saved for the next Summer, although I have yet to see one, which is strange. Today, I started to dismantle the garden, as it never quite recovered from the hurricane, but is still giving me some Roma and Cherry tomatoes. I also cut back some of the Greek Oregano and made two big bouquets for drying. I have stored alot away already, which should carry me through the Winter and into next Spring/early Summer. There is still time for the oregano to grow!!

I'm beginning to think 'decorative cabbages' now, as Summer ebbs (again, sigh), and Autumn makes her cool entrance.

Late Summer, Late Afternoon

2011-09-12T09:20:00.015-04:00

Well, hello gorgeous!!

This is a fraction of Schartner Farm!!!

Lush..

Small portion of the many rows of vegetation...

Standing tall in the breeze...

Mum, getting ready to pop...so intricate!

Beautiful, full white Dahlia..

Mr. Grasshopper holding on..

Mr. Grasshopper and Ms. Bumblebee...good one!

The beautiful weather this weekend was a blessing. The September 11 Memorials were drenched in sunshine. Let's just say, it helped that it was not raining.

We went down to the beach on Saturday and I knew that we would be stopping by Schartner Farms on the drive back so that I could take some late afternoon photos. Two years ago, almost to the day, we stopped at the farm, and I did the same thing. The difference this round, however, was huge. What I mean is, that two years ago, the Sunflowers were so tall, I could barely get a good photo; this year, they were only up to my knees. Two years ago, Dahlias and Mums were nothing short of gi-normous, and this year, well, not so much. Not that the rows upon rows of flowers were not beautiful, they most certainly were, but it was a tough year for farmers, everywhere. I still loved loved loved, being out in the fields, alone, camera in tow, knowing that if I got one good shot out of many, then it was a good day. The late afternoon sunlight is a true gift!!

The Tree

2011-09-11T09:05:00.005-04:00

The 'Survivor Tree' blooms on the 9/11 Memorial Site
photo by Amy Dreher

'God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Come and see what the LORD has done,
the desolation's he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”

The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.'

Psalm 46
Read by President Obama today's Memorial Service

Tribute Light for 9/11

2011-09-10T21:08:00.003-04:00

Photo by Joe Woolhead

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-07T10:38:00.004-04:00

'Woman Lying on a Bench'

Carl Larsson (1853 - 1919)
Watercolour on Paper
Louvre, Paris, France

The Circle Game

2011-09-04T20:20:00.015-04:00

Very first photo of me painting...I was 3. I wonder how many of those 3x5 cards I filled up that day!!

My little Ninja...already developing his 'Endpoint' character in his head...

There have been a few most memorable moments with Edward these past couple of years. He'll be 22 years old this month, quite grown up in ways. Appreciative, he's very very appreciative, and that's big. But, it was what he said to me a couple of days ago which warmed the cockles of my heart. Mom, he said, I was looking at your blog, and you know those drawings that you do (here it comes...). With a grin on his face which could only be described as pride, and a glimmer in his eyes, he said, (lo and behold), you have quite an imagination...what's going on in that little head of yours???? I smiled, inside and out. All I can say is, as parents, we live for these moments. My dear friend, Yo Mama tells me that on the other side of 26, they come around alot more often. Right now, I am still basking in the afterglow.

'And the seasons they go round and round

And the painted ponies go up and down

We're captive on the carousel of time

We can't return we can only look

Behind from where we came

And go round and round and round

In the circle game.'

Joni Mitchell, 'The Circle Game'

The Aftermath of Irene...

2011-09-02T09:24:00.014-04:00

My grand experiment of wrapping the garden helped, but was no match for Irene...

During Irene's worst...here...

Ouch....

The South winds, sustained @ 35-45 mph, did her deed...

A 'leaner' garden, but still standing...after hours and hours of untangling!!

Look who I found, while working in the garden!!!

One of the many many many downed trees..

A spot on the water, I called 'Peaceful View', before..

Peaceful view, after...broke my heart...

Irene left her calling card up and down the East Coast last week. I prepared for days getting 'ready', for 'who knew what'. Many are still without power, we lost ours for 3 days and were prepared, mentally, to go the long haul. Thankfully, our power was restored on Wednesday. It was quite a moment!!! I went around the house at 4:30 in the morning testing all the lights, turning on the stove, checking my computer to make sure everything was really lighting up!! It was not until later that morning, when I turned on my computer, that I saw the pictures of the devastation Irene left in her wake, and my heart broke. For us, (thankfully) the only thing that took a hit was my garden, and that could be salvaged. Many others lost everything. Just think if Irene had been a category 1 or 2 hurricane. I shudder. I might add, that the radio was my salvation during the storm. The Providence TV stations made the wise decision to partner with a couple of local radio stations. Needless to say, their diligent reporting was a serious life line. So thank you Fred Campagna, for keeping us informed during Irene and well into this week (and for being such a mensch). Here are just a few photos, before, a little during and after.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T08:26:00.002-04:00

Big Kitty hanging out by candlelight 'a la' Irene...candles work well when the power is out...more to come!!

The Gift That Keeps on Giving...

2011-08-20T21:25:00.011-04:00

rock #1, front

rock #1, back

rock #2, front

rock #2, back

The sun is just a bit lower in the sky. It is starting to 'feel' like summer is slipping away, although it is still August, albeit, the 20th. Today was one of those days at the ocean which can only be labeled perfection. Not a cloud in the sky, a slight breeze, the sun warm, not hot, the tide up most of the day, the beach rocks, laid out so perfectly along the mile or so stretch of shore. I am like a kid in a candy shop, eying the stones for that elusive stripe which goes all the way around, sometimes so very subtle. I look for pure white rocks, or textures and designs which 'pop' when I see them. I 'ooooh' and 'ahhhh' to myself as I drop these precious findings into my yellow bucket. 'Good one', I will say to myself, and then show Jimmy the really special ones when I get back to our slice of the beach. So, here are a few of today's amazing gifts from the ocean deep at Matunuck Beach. I was especially 'taken' with the 2 rocks which were so completely different on either side. I think, as always, 'How on earth did this rock happen, how did this come to be????"

Awesome, totally, awesome...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T09:09:00.002-04:00

'The Hidden Staircase'

(Nancy Drew anyone??)
Narragansett Blvd, RI
August, 2011

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-10T07:58:00.005-04:00

Look what I found..an old photo of

baby girl at about 10 weeks old (2002ish), aka, Little Kitty, aka, Girl Whirl...

(and recent)

In The Garden...

2011-08-07T11:55:00.006-04:00

The garden, my garden, my personal little jungle, has been a source of great solace for me this summer. With all the bad news we hear on a daily basis, I am so blessed to be able to go outside, and garden. I have tilled the soil and fertilized, I have planted many Roma and Cherry tomatoes, the most aromatic Greek oregano, I have watered and waited impatiently for everything to start to grow. I have put in bamboo stakes, I have gently/firmly tied the growing vines with hemp string (many levels of tying), I have given them plant food. I have lovingly tended to the garden everyday that I have been home. It is just within the past week that I have picked eaten my very first Roma tomato and the very sweet Cherry's are also being plucked off the vine...already making an appearance in some tomato sauce. I have cut, tied, hung and dried a couple of bouquets of the oregano, which I added to what was left of last years' haul. Right now, it is pouring rain outside, and I am grateful for all that water, as I look from my window at the garden, my garden....

'Awake, north wind,

and come, south wind! Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread everywhere. Let my beloved come into his garden

and taste its choice fruits.'

Song of Solomon 4:16

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-03T09:18:00.003-04:00

Beach Rocks

Matunuck Beach, R.I., July 2011

Remembering Harvey...

2011-08-01T10:45:00.012-04:00

Harvey & Rita, Nicole's Bat Mitzvah, 2007

The very first thing I can tell you about Harvey is that he was the slowest eater...ever. We would be into the next meal, and Harvey was still on 'yesterday'. He had the bluest eyes, which, if you really looked, were as deep as the ocean blue, leading to 'the heart' of his very soul. He was extraordinarily kind and patient. He adored my cousin Rita, and their wedding, 20 years ago, was truly one of the most joyous I have ever had the pleasure to witness. And then there is Nicole. Nicole is 17 now, a beautiful, lovely young woman. Harvey adored Nicole as well, but the way he fathered her is what we will all remember the most. It was that same patience and sweetness, his being so present, right there by her side, every step of the way, is what we trust and pray, she will remember the most. I recall, one summer were were visiting them, Nicole was about 5. It was a scorching hot day, (somewhat like today) and we went to the 'Y' to go swimming. It was a large, outdoor pool. Nicole was hooked on that low diving board, and about 100 times that day, she said to me 'Amy look, Amy look', as she gleefully, with all abandon, jumped into the cool water. Harvey, just looked on, with that glimmer in those very blue eyes, smiling on the inside, because Nicole was so happy.

Harvey lost his valiant, 19 month battle with pancreatic cancer this past Wednesday. My heart, our collective hearts are just broken. I know that the world is still spinning, and that life marches on, but right now, my love and thoughts are spinning, spinning, spinning around Rita and Nicole.

We pray comfort, so much comfort, and know, we are all the richer, so much richer, because Harvey made it so.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T09:33:00.004-04:00

Heat Wave Sunflower,

Community Garden, Battery Park City, NY
July 22, 2011

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T08:25:00.014-04:00

Roma and cherry tomatoes popping!!

Beach Rocks Came in Handy Today....

2011-07-17T19:37:00.018-04:00

New banner!!!

My shady, windy corner display..

Looks like a geology table!!!

Hey, it's all natural!!

The strings, ropes, and bungee cords hold up the display!

A peek down the street.

My tent neighbor didn't show up...but, the street was full.

The gifted young people from the RI Kung Fu Club

Drumming out the beat...they were terrific!

Today was the 'Whole Foods 3rd Annual Block Party' on the East Side of Providence. It was everything you would think a block party would be...lots of families, dogs, people with their bicycles, some with babies attached to the front of the handlebars, a great D.J., lots of hamburgers and hots dogs, plenty of water to go around. Doing an outdoor event is always a gamble. Will the weather hold out, will it rain, be too cold or too hot, will there be a gusty wind? The vendors are checking the weather reports very carefully all week. Well, I knew that it was going to be a hot one today...sweltering, in fact. BUT, I was assigned a spot under a tree, completely shaded from the blistering sun. WOW, somebody up there likes me, in fact, loves me...this was great. However, the wind was so gusty, that I needed my beach rocks to hold down the cards...many of which did blow down the street before I had a chance to get everything in place. Jimmy and I rigged up 'something', with string, rope and bungee cords, tied around (and around and around and around ) a tree, wrapped on a leg of the tent, all to hold up the framed pictures on the display. Glory be, it worked!!!! We were very impressed with ourselves. So, it was a good day of sales, the entertainment from the Rhode Island Kung Fu Club was energetic and colorful. A perfect addition to our day. Thank you Shawna for a well run event....and on to the next project, as they say.

Whole Foods Block Party, Sunday, 7/17!!

2011-07-14T09:17:00.006-04:00

Whole Foods is closing down Waterman Street from Wayland to Butler! Join us for an afternoon of family fun, charitable giving, and delicious food! There will be live performances, music, games, kids activities, outdoor artist gallery, raffles, and did we mention food? Hope to see you there! Sponsored by Waterman Whole

Foods Market and East Side Monthly.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-13T08:49:00.001-04:00

This cream actually works...enough said.....

Perfection!!

2011-07-08T10:36:00.010-04:00

Beach Week has been challenging. We had 2 days of heavy dense fog at the shore...we were patient, we were hopeful, we saw glimmers of sun, but in the end, the blizzard of fog won out. Jimmy had one blissful day to himself while I did the Farmer's Market...he needed the day, and I was glad to be at the Market. However, yesterday wiped away all those foggy memories and gave us a day of absolute perfection. We arrived at Matunuck around 11ish. It is so pleasant to say 'good morning' to people on the beach. The sky was blue, it was a hot day, little wind, there was a storm churning many miles out to sea, so the waves were big, the ocean was roaring, the tide was up. We immediately took off for the long walk towards Pt. Judith. As many times as we have walked this walk, we are always amazed, when we pause and turn around, to see how far we have come. Time on the beach is read by the position of the sun, not by our watches or iPhones. Hence, the glorious, lazy long walks in the water, out of the water, on the sand, through the red tide and fresh strands of bright green seaweed, is marked only by how high the sun is in the sky. A fun guessing game, although, we've become pretty good in the knowing. By the time we left, at around 5:30, we had walked the entire beach twice over and then some. The water, was extremely refreshing. I came home with a good haul of rocks, a most grateful heart having had such a banner day, while still feeling the warmth of the sun well into the evening. Today thunderstorms abound, but we'll head back again tomorrow with great anticipation of 2 more most excellent days!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T07:36:00.001-04:00

Monday, late afternoon

Roger Williams Park, Providence, RI

The Stone House

2011-07-03T20:00:00.020-04:00

Amazing that this structure is still standing!!!

Looking over the ocean, a great place for a kitchen!!

From the inside, we'll need a custom window here!

The view from the front door!!!!!

Greetings!

The back wall of the Stone House!!

This is the beginning of our annual 'Beach Week'. We have such beautiful beaches here in Rhode Island. We have made our selves at home at East Matunuck. We have been going there for almost 10 years, and over the years we have learned that families have been coming to this beach, to 'their' respective spots, for generations. However, this year, there is a glitch. The beach house, for changing, showering, food, etc., has being torn down for a newer, shinier model. (A huge structure!) As a result, there are only 300 parking places. The field has been narrowed big time!! Alas, early as we were yesterday, there was no room at the inn, if you will. So, we made our way to Scarborough. It is very similar to Jones Beach in New York. A ga-zillion people, a sea of umbrellas...but beautiful surf and waves. For me, grumpy as I was to be forced out of my beloved Matunuck, yes, people there was a silver lining. There is a cliff walk. A narrow path, overlooking the ocean, full of rich foliage, which went on and on and on. Jimmy and I literally walked our brains out. The beach must be double the length of Matunuck...we walked that as well. But, it was this Stone House which really captured my attention. I was amazed at the construction...how old do you think it is?I have looked on-line and there is very little information on it's history. But, I was already putting in a kitchen and decorating as soon as I went 'inside'. This morning, I read that there is alot of poison ivy in the area, immediately started itching, and some bumps appeared on my arm. Great, I thought, 12 summers in the Berkshires, and I never got poison ivy...one visit to the Stone House, and well, I'll keep you posted!!!

Have a safe and Happy July 4th America!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-29T10:40:00.005-04:00

The exact spot where I park under a tree when I walk to the Cove...

I'm just saying....

Rocks to Rainbows..

2011-06-26T21:56:00.012-04:00

So, we decided to high tail it to the beach this afternoon. A perfect 'beach day', it was not, but we thought if we could get a good walk in, maybe some rock collecting, a nap and a nosh, it would be a well spent afternoon. I took off first, with my precious yellow bucket for the rocks. I managed a good haul, (although these pics are a mere sampling) from a fairly good choice of rocks (versus awesome...when there are simply waaaaay too many!!), as I took my sweet time in the search. We are in no rush at the beach. I had not looked back towards Pt. Judith. When I did turn around, a heavy dense fog had descended upon the beach. I picked up the pace a bit, as I could only see about 100 feet in front of me, and it was getting dark. I can always pick out our real estate by our umbrella, but I could not see it. I started to get nervous. Finally, after what seemed like a much longer walk than it was, I found Jimmy, snug as a bug, and asleep. He had his iPhone 'plugged in', so I called his name a few times before I woke him up. He was shocked when he looked around him and realized that he could not see well past the few people sitting near us....thus began the afternoon of weather. We saw it all, from the thick, thick fog at the beach, to beautiful breaks of sun, to extremely overcast threatening skies, to heavy downpours, all leading to what I simply knew was coming...yes, a rainbow. It was in the air, you knew it was out there someplace after that last rain. Sure enough, the photo is taken from the upstairs of our home looking east...always a most welcome sight, instantly imparting a childlike sense of wonder, seasoned with a ray of hope. We got it all, the walk, the rock collecting, a nap, of course, the nosh, all topped off with that beautiful rainbow...I would say, a good time was had by all!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-22T10:35:00.007-04:00

'Ev’ry honeybee.... fills with jealousy

When they see you out with me

I don’t blame them....goodness knows

Honeysuckle rose'

Louis Armstrong
Pawtuxet Cove, R.I., June 2011

23rd Wedding Anniversary!!!

2011-06-17T10:00:00.011-04:00

'Marriage Contract'
The Jewish Museum, New York, 1989
Acrylic and vinyl paint on canvas, relief print letters
35x30 inches

23 years ago tomorrow, my husband and I said our 'I do's'. We did not sign a traditional wedding contract, but, when I showed him this picture I have in my weekly date book, (from the Jewish Museum), on this very week of June 12-18, we were both ready to put our names on the dotted line. It seems like a life-time ago, (certainly, Edward's life-time). We made a commitment on that day, re-newed our vows on our 10th anniversary in the presence of Edward (he was so excited!!!), and now we find ourselves shaking our heads, in awe. The years have been marked, like everyone else, with joy and sorrow, life and death, good health and bad, for richer and for poorer. We are still standing, very much a unit, a team, one in spirit. We find, that more than anything, we are grateful, extremely grateful for one another. We think that's a great place to be after 23 years!!

Happy Anniversary Jimmy!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-15T09:52:00.003-04:00

'Girl With Black Eye'

Cover of Saturday Evening Post, 5/1953
Oil on canvas, 34x30 inches
Norman Rockwell

It Rained, It Poured....

2011-06-12T10:43:00.024-04:00

Miss Monarch butterfly, was most definitely the 'star' of the show!

Monarch butterfly, laying one on Matthew!!

Pretty fairy girl...

Whole Foods, well, food....

The flowers were happy...

Liz, and her imagination...awesome!!

Some of the framed pieces, display...

'Gift in February' and 'Dairy Cow, Gal'

'In Full Bloom'

'Lush Field, Schartner Farms, RI'

We woke up at the crack of dawn..although we could not see it through the clouds. The weather was looking grim, the forecast called for rain. And so it did. As my husband and I were driving over to the Garden City Center at about 8:15am, it rained, it poured!!! All the while, I was thinking about my 'paper goods'....yes, the cards are protected by plastic sleeves, the matted pieces are protected by plastic sleeves, and the framed pieces, well, there is glass, but the backing does not like heat or humidity. The challenges started very early on, w/ the setting up of 'the tent'. One of the connecting pieces broke, so w/ the help of my new friend, Dave, we improvised. The ground was wet (large parking lots don't have 'drainage'), it was cold. However, everybody forged ahead w/ their displays and the festivities began!!!!

It was amazing at how many people came out, umbrellas in tow, rain gear, or not. The very young to the very old, strolled through the many aisles of vendors showing their wares, from sea glass, to handmade jewelry and soaps, plenty of artwork, photography, local farms, (just to name a mere few) and food, there was plenty of food!!!! My husband, bless his heart, went home and brought me my winter coat, I was that cold!!!! I love talking to the people who come to my 'tent'. One woman was so excited to be sending 'Milk in Progress' to a friend who lives on a farm in England, another almost had her eyes popping out of her head when she bought a matted 'Dahlia Center' (my top seller of the day in cards!!) for her bedroom. One woman spent time, patiently deciding how she was going to hang the 3 framed pieces she bought!

I wish I had been able to freely roam the aisles as well, but I did get to spend time w/ my tent neighbor, Matthew. He is an author and illustrator, he lives in Mystic. He too, had the same internal dialogue while taking the hour drive from Mystic in the rain, to Rhode Island, '...to set up, or not to set up', but he did. We had some good conversations in between all the action. All in all, it was a good day and we were happy to be part of Festival Fete! We showed up, and that was the important thing.

A hearty thank you to Jennifer Neuguth, from Festival Fete, and Holly Dion, from Whole Foods, Garden City for their tremendous work to bring such a big event to pass!!!

Whew...and on to the next project....

Festival Fete, Saturday, June 11th!!!

2011-06-08T10:43:00.006-04:00

Festival Fete festivals will be one-of-a-kind, with an extraordinary collection of over 100 Contemporary American Craft artists, strolling entertainment, a farmers market, and children’s crafts and entertainment. In addition, Festival Fete will feature an opportunity for festival attendees to express themselves and experience the thrill of creativity with a specially designed community art project. Festival Fete shows are not just another art festival but a local art happening!

I'll be there in the excellent company of my fellow artisan's. Come join us on Saturday!!

(A portion of all my sales are donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Rhode Island Branch)

Swan, Snow, Kitty and Flowers???

2011-06-05T19:39:00.010-04:00

'Amazing Grace'

'Snow Bench, Pawtuxet Cove, RI'
'Soft Kitty Pink Love'
'Wake Up Gerberer'

As you know, from the previous post, I have been working @ a fever pitch to be ready, fully stocked, and then some, for next Saturdays' show @ the Garden City Center (along with the upcoming season of weekly selling @ Whole Foods Farmers Market). I have re-visited all of my many cards already published in my Etsy shop, Lilleypics. However, I do have 4 new pieces at the moment. Summer affords me such wonderful opportunities to do some running and sniffing around, capturing nature's gift in the form of a photo. I am certainly looking forward to getting out there and smelling the roses, literally!! You have seen all of these new cards posted here as a photo, but, seeing them with that little white border around them, makes such a huge difference...enjoy!!

Schaedler Rules!!!

2011-05-27T18:15:00.020-04:00

I have to confess, I am one of those annoying people who feels the need to straighten other people's crooked pictures. Yes, if I walk into a doctors office, and there is the inevitable crooked, framed picture, I normally exercise great self control and don't touch it...but, on occasion, people, I do seize the moment. Yes, even in your house, I will be tempted to straighten out that baby. Part of me is a trained 'graphic' person and I like to see things lined up, well, straight. I worked for Gensler New York, in their graphic department about 5 minutes before computers took over the world. In the graphic department, the most valuable tool @ the time was a Schaedler Ruler. I still have mine, and cannot live without it. Schaedler Precision Rules are marked with thinner-than-hairline calibrations which represent divisions as fine as 64ths of an inch!!!

Which leads me to the meat of this post. I am getting ready for a craft show @ Garden City Center on June 11th. There is so much to do. Editing, printing, hundreds of photos, cutting presentation boards, gluing, matting, pressing, framing 5x7's, and then finally, laying out all those hundreds of 4x6 photos onto card stock, more gluing, pressing, signing, dating, labeling and then lastly, stuffing. When I am making the cards, the Schaedler Ruler saves my life. Yes, all the way down to the 1/64th of an inch as I need to know that everything is lined up. I have learned that if my margin is off by 1/16 of an inch, well, I can live with that now...good enough...yet, another part of the process. For the next 2 weeks, I will have my hand to the plow...starting today with 17, 5x7's glued, matted and now pressing overnight...let the games begin!!!

The Violin Shop

2011-05-22T12:53:00.005-04:00

I saw this violin shop at the indoor farmers market last year and I knew I had to take some photos. My initial thought was that if I got the right shot, it would make a fabulous card, framed or matted 5x7. Dennis McCarten not only makes violins, but repairs them as well. They hang beautifully, different woods and grains, different sizes, each one with it's own unique story.

Dennis McCarten has been making and repairing instruments for nearly 2 decades. This was a natural evolution from his lifelong love of wood and wood working and his immersion in Irish tradition music. His shop can be found in The Artists Village, 1005 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T10:26:00.004-04:00

'Happy Dragonfly'

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-11T10:24:00.004-04:00

'Pretty in Purple'

The loveliness, the delicateness, the intricacies are mind boggling.

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2011-05-07T19:45:00.005-04:00

A very heartfelt, Happy Mother's Day to all you beautiful Mom's...

This paragraph was written by one of my dearest friends from our camp days in the Berkshires. These are her precious thoughts concerning her love for my Mom.

(The rest of this beautifully written piece can be found here.)

"Second, I am rapt in thought about a head counselor I had while at summer camp 45 years ago. Her name was Bunny and believe me, she was the grandest, sanest, smartest Bunny anyone could know. Today she is in her late 80′s and is ailing. I send her my love and gratitude for all the things she taught me (by example) and all the incredibly fun times we had together. Her daughter, Lilleyhope, is one of my dearest friends. Rather than search the web for an appropriate Mother’s Day video, photo or other visual stimulant (how many computers can I take down in one day????), I am sending you the link to Lilleyhope’s site for the most beautiful picture of all for this Mother’s Day.

If you need to chill a bit like I do, also have a visit to the Decorah, Iowa eagle’s nest. The three babies have grown significantly, thanks to the unflinching parenting of the Mama and Papa."

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T10:39:00.001-04:00

Pawtuxet Cove swan...glory...!!

Let the Sun Shine In...

2011-04-22T10:14:00.002-04:00

Girl Whirl catching some late afternoon sun...she loves basking in the sun...a gal after my own heart!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T11:14:00.003-04:00

'Moses'

Sistine Chapel, Rome, 1508
Michelangelo

Go Down Moses

2011-04-18T10:24:00.013-04:00

'Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Go to Pharaoh and say to him, 'Thus says the Lord," 'Let my people go, that they may serve me.'

Exodus 8:1

'When Israel was in Egypt's land
Let my people go
Oppressed so hard they could not stand
Let my people go

Go down Moses
Way down in Egypt's land
Tell old, Pharoh
Let my people go!

Thus saith the Lord, bold Moses said
Let my people go
If not, I'll smite your first born dead
Let my people go

Go down Moses,
Way down in Egypt's land,
Tell old, Pharoh,
Let my people go!

No more shall they in bondage toil
Let my people go
Let them come out with Egypt's spoil
Let my people go

Go down Moses
Way down in Egypt's land
Tell old, Pharoh
Let my people go!'

Negro Spiritual, around 1862
This song is sung at many a Sedar celebration during the reading of the Haggadah.

Happy Passover!!
(read the entire story of Passover here)

Speaking of Eagles...

2011-04-15T17:47:00.008-04:00

So many of us have been hooked on the nesting eagles in a tree at the fish hatchery in Decorah, Iowa. The wonders of having a webcam in the tree, seeing the eggs hatch, and these 3 precious and endangered eaglets so lovingly protected by both Mama and Papa eagle. Everyone seems to be doing quite well. We continue to watch......

However, when scrolling through the 'Animal Pictures of the Week', from The Daily Telegraph of the United Kingdom, this amazing eagle caught my eye!!!! Is this not a gorgeous, gorgeous bird?? A seven-year-old Philippine Eagle (Pithecopaga jefferyi) named Binay displays its feathers at the Philippine Eagle Centre on the outskirts of Davao City, on the island of Mindanao. The giant forest raptor is endemic to the Philippines and is one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world. It is however, also one of the world's rarest and most critically endangered, with only 500 pairs remaining in the wild.

Remnants...

2011-04-08T19:50:00.008-04:00

I see the smallest of buds on the pear tree, the lilac bush, the dogwood, the first sightings of the hostas and lilies are also present. I actually did some 'gardening', if you will, yesterday. I cut back the thick, thick dried stalks/leaves from some lilies mixed w/ some hostas, w/ my mini-rake (no laughing). I raked under some of our bushes in the front of the house to draw out the leaves which were not going to budge w/out my help. I am thrilled. Planning a new garden, looking into growing some 'other' things, which I will keep to my self for now. What really struck me was this planter. I kept it out on the deck all winter and the brutality of these past few months is evident in the picture. The glaze literally broke off from pot...be it the cold, the snow, the ice. But, you know what, I LOVE IT...I'm going to do a small repair job @ it's base, but it is so chiseled and so organic...after all, it has literally been changed by the elements. I am most definitely going to plant something special in it. It may be very porous, but, I'm keeping it around as a reminder. It is a remnant, a remaining quantity of what it once was, a vestige of this harsh winter past.

But, it's still here....

Mercy Me, Words for Wednesday

2011-04-06T10:14:00.004-04:00

Woo ah, mercy mercy me
Ah, things ain't what they used to be, no, no
Where did all the blue skies go?
Poison is the wind that blows from the north and south and east
Woo mercy, mercy me, mercy father
Ah, things ain't what they used to be, no, no
Oil wasted on the ocean and upon our seas, fish full of mercury
Ah, oh mercy, mercy me
Ah, things ain't what they used to be, no, no
Radiation under ground and in the sky
Animals and birds who live nearby are dying
Oh mercy, mercy me
Ah, things ain't what they used to be
What about this overcrowded land
How much more abuse from man can she stand?
Oh, na na . . .
My sweet Lord . . . No
My Lord . . . My sweet Lord

Imagination

2011-03-26T10:38:00.003-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T10:09:00.002-04:00

Advocacy in Action!!!

2011-03-18T11:15:00.015-04:00

This past Saturday through Tuesday, I once again had the opportunity to go to Washington, D.C., representing the State of Rhode Island, as a JDRF advocate for Type 1 Diabetes. You all know by now, that my wonderful 21 year old son, Edward, was diagnosed 9 years ago today. So much has changed since then. Edward was just a little boy. Now, he is a young man, a senior in college, and has managed his daily health care for 4 years on his own w/ tremendous responsibility. I have said it before, I will say it again and again and again, we are so proud of him.

Tremendous changes have also taken place w/in the diabetic community. The insulin pump has emerged as a priceless piece of technology, along w/ the great strides being made w/ the continuous glucose monitor. Last year we successfully secured a multi-year renewal for funding for hundreds of millions of dollars for research for the Special Diabetes Program, as advocates from across the country descended upon Capital Hill. This year we presented our Congressmen and Senators with the artificial pancreas as a new technology. The artificial pancreas has demonstrated remarkable results in the hospital setting; now trials need to be done in the 'real world' or outpatient setting. This project needs FDA approval, and signatures from our leaders to move this project forward was our collective goal.

I was blessed this year to have two fellow Rhode Islanders running with me. Eileen Bristow, who has lived w/ Type 1 for 42 years, and and Kerri Morrone-Sparling who was diagnosed when she was 6 years old. Kerri's blog, 'Six Until Me', links into a growing community of Type 1 bloggers. Kerri is a new Mom and here is a small portion of her post on our visit to 'The Hill':

'All we did was share our stories. (It was like blogging out loud.) But we could see our words hitting home. "This kid?" I showed them a photo of BSparl. "She's not diabetic, but I am. And I need to be here for a long, long time so this little bird can have a healthy mom to take care of her. I'm not tugging on heart strings; I'm just telling the truth." This was my first time ever talking to someone outside of the community about how diabetes may affect my daughter, and the edges of those emotions were raw. Listening to Eileen and Amy share their stories made an impact on me; they hopefully made an impact on people whose support we need, as well.'

Once again, a hearty, THANK-YOU, to the Staff of the JDRF Office in D.C ., for putting together yet another all important Government (few) Days. We have renewed hope for our children, friends and family as technology becomes more and more cutting edge, all most prayerfully leading to a CURE!! And for my beloved son, we remember this very day, 9 years ago, when you were diagnosed w/ Type 1 diabetes. Our lives changed forever, and in many ways for the better. We are humbled to be part of such a brilliant and determined community!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-09T10:05:00.004-05:00

'Woman With a Parasol'

Madame Monet and her Son
1875
oil on canvas
Claude Monet, 1840-1926

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-02T10:35:00.004-05:00

'Interior With a Woman Reading'
1885

watercolor
Carl Larsson, 1853-1919

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-23T10:36:00.003-05:00

Hope springs eternal...do you see what I see??????
(teeny tiny)

Dear Restlesss Heart...

2011-02-15T17:24:00.005-05:00

'Prayer'

Dear restless heart, be still; don't fret and worry so;
God has a thousand ways His love and help to show;
Just trust, and trust, and trust, until His will you know.

Dear restless heart, be still, for peace is God's own smile,
His love can every wrong and sorrow reconcile;
Just love, and love, and love, and calmly wait awhile.

Dear restless heart, be brave; don't moan and sorrow so,
He hath a meaning kind in chilly winds that blow;
Just hope, and hope, and hope, until you braver grow.

Dear restless heart, repose upon His breast this hour,
His grace is strength and life, His love is bloom and flower;
Just rest, and rest, and rest, within His tender power.

Dear restless heart, be still! Don't struggle to be free;
God's life is in your life, from Him you may not flee;
Just pray, and pray, and pray, till you have faith to see.

Edith Willis Linn
1865-1945

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T10:04:00.005-05:00

Sunflower

New Mexico, 1935
Georgie O'Keeffe

Hold on, it's coming.....

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-02T09:52:00.001-05:00

Anyone?????

Comfort...

2011-01-29T17:41:00.008-05:00

When I look out the window on the first floor of the house, I see mounds upon mounds of snow... white...everywhere. When I look out of my son's bedroom window on the 2nd floor, I see icicles which are over 2 feet long, and I think; don't want to be under that when it falls...someone could get hurt. We need a break from this frozen tundra. Which leads me to my delicious find today at Target. I kind of needed new slippers, and kind of didn't. However, when I saw these, clearly, they had my name on them. When I tried then on, well, perfection! Even better, they were on sale, reduced from $17 to $4 and change. How could a gal possibly say no? I liken these yummy slippers to mac and cheese, hot chocolate with whipped cream, the coziest blanket, a roaring fire...yes, comfort, being the operative word. It really, truly doesn't take much too make me happy and these slippers have fit the bill to a 't'!!! So, we may be buried under all this snow until spring, but I know, for certain, my little feet will remain warm and toasty.....ahhhhh!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T09:53:00.001-05:00

My favorite local spot.

Pawtuxet Cove, RI
Jan., 2011

She Doth Protest....

2011-01-25T10:29:00.002-05:00

NO MORE SNOW

NO MORE SNOW
NO MORE SNOW

'View' from the side screen door....

Martin Luther King, Jr.

2011-01-16T16:28:00.012-05:00

When thinking about Martin Luther King Day, my first thought is what can I write that would be relevant to mark and honor him, his legacy and all things, which were set into motion by the life and death of this great man.

Years ago, I was asked to hand-ink the Hebrew scripture 'Thou shalt not stand idly by...' from the book of Leviticus. It seems to be fitting in every area of our lives where even the smallest gesture of kindness, to the heroism we saw just last week in Tuscon, can change the life of another, even save a life, when we 'stand not idly by'. These words, this scripture, I learned while dong some research for this post, are the personal mantra and commandment to Elie Wiesel, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Holocaust survivor, and human rights activist.

So, I share this with you today as we remember and honor a voice, a man, who was crying out in the wilderness...

'I have a dream today...'

Wordless Wednesday...Here We Go...Again...

2011-01-12T11:08:00.007-05:00

Here we go again...this is a wet, heavy snow...hence, many wires are down, alot of people are without power. Here are some more pics looking out.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T13:44:00.002-05:00

Painting a mural at the 'Rose Y', in Mt. Vernon, NY
acrylics

2001

Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-31T10:18:00.002-05:00

To ALL, a healthy, prosperous and blessed 2011!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Somone has the Right Idea....

2010-12-27T18:12:00.008-05:00

We just have experienced 'the blizzard of 2010'. Extremely strong, hurricane force winds, a ton of snow and now the continued clean-up. NYC and New Jersey were totally pummeled. People have sent in the most wonderful photos from up and down the East Coast to the New York Times, numbering close to 1000. Check out the link to get your fill.

Oh, we did venture out today.We put on our thermals, sherpa boots, angora sweaters, fleece mittens, scarves and hats, and drove through the extremely picturesque Roger Williams Park in Providence. I'll go back during the week once the intense winds die down and hopefully get some lovely shots. We stopped into our favorite 'watering hole' in town and split a warm apple turnover and had some coffee. Baby, it was cold outside!!!!

In the meantime, Little Kitty, aka, Girl Whirl looked so sweet and so cozy in pink, I just had to get this shot of her...she definitely has the right idea!!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T09:52:00.004-05:00

With our prayers and love to all who celebrate Christmas...have a blessed, peaceful, safe and joyous day!

Matthew 2:2

Saturday Date

2010-12-18T19:38:00.006-05:00

Jimmy and I realized after beach season was really over, that we still had to be 'running somewhere' on the weekend. So, living in the small and historic state of Rhode Island, we have been making the most of it. We decided that each Saturday we would visit a town, city or village, and find the best place for soup...yes, that's right soup. We're talking lobster bisque and New England clam chowder. Although, we did find some amazing sweet potato bisque at 'Z Bar and Grille' in Providence. We're geared up to find the best of the best. It's a great date! We've been to about 6 different restaurants since October. Today, we stayed in Providence, where eateries are plenteous. We have been eying 'Cav' for a long time, we have poured over the menu, discussed our options, brunch, lunch or dinner. The time was right. We had no idea that the ambiance would be so interesting. They have art objects from around the world, all for sale from the finest rugs, to African sculptures and Asian bronze pieces. All with a festive, holiday touch too boot. Jimmy had a big bowl of clam chowder, with fresh clams, visible to the eye, and I had a cup of lobster bisque. It had a smokey taste, with a little heat..interesting. So, we'll keep you posted as we eat our way from one end of the state to the other!!

Aspray Boathouse Holiday Sale

2010-12-12T12:51:00.014-05:00

The weather was perfect for December 11th. Sunny, 45 degrees. The Aspray Boathouse was a very busy place in the 1700's; now a refurbished and most lovely waterfront venue. The vendors were all ready to roll by 10:30AM. The shoppers were non-stop for a good part of the day as the Aspray show was planned in conjunction with a historic walk around Pawtuxet Village (founded in 1638 by Roger Williams). Some people left and came back with more cash in tow. I had my best day of sales to date...and for me, the thrill was that I was just selling the photos. Over 50 different cards, framed 4x6's, framed 5x7's. All the gluing, pressing, signing, dating, labeling, stuffing, matting and gluing some more, and framing (whew) paid off!! We were even treated to a live operatic performance at 5PM. I hope you can get a feel of the warmth of the venue, along with some of the gifted vendors from the photos!!

A hearty thank you to all who came out!!

10% Discount in my Etsy Shop Lilleypad

2010-12-09T10:35:00.005-05:00

'Feels Like Vintage'
'Decorative Sleek'

'Falling Leaf'
Etsy has just made it really easy for us to mark our handmade goodies down, with the use of coupon codes. I have marked down everything in Lilleypad by 10%, using the code 'amylikesjack'. Your final price will automatically be adjusted to reflect the change of price....so happy shopping everyone!!!

10% Discount in my Etsy Shop Lilleypics

2010-12-05T18:58:00.008-05:00

'Inner Visions'
'Child of Wonder'
'Let The Mountains Sing'

Etsy has just made it really easy for us to mark our handmade goodies down, with the use of coupon codes. I have marked down everything in Lilleypics by 10%, using the code 'rhodagirls3'. These 3 pieces are some of my original artwork! Remember, there is still no shipping on all cards for another few days. If you want to give the cards as a Chanukah or Christmas gift, they will be wrapped in rice paper, decoratively tied w/ hemp string. Your final price will automatically be adjusted to reflect the change of price....so happy shopping everyone!!!

10% Discount in my Etsy Shops, Lilleypad and Lilleypics!!

2010-11-30T16:17:00.008-05:00

'She Sells Seashells'
'Aqua CZ Dangle'
'Ruby Reds CZ'

Etsy has just made it really easy for us to mark our handmade goodies down, with the use of coupon codes. I have marked down everything in Lilleypics by 10%, using the code 'rhodagirls3'. Remember, there is still no shipping on all cards for another few days. If you want to give the cards as a Chanukah or Christmas gift, they will be wrapped in rice paper, decoratively tied w/ hemp string. Every piece of jewelry in Lilleypad has also been marked down by 10%, using the code 'amylikesjack26'. Your final price will automatically be adjusted to reflect the change of price....so happy shopping everyone!!!

Etsy Coupons Are Here!!!

2010-11-27T19:48:00.006-05:00

'Starry Night', 10 cards

'Go Green, CZ'

Etsy has just made it really easy for us to mark our handmade goodies down, with the use of coupon codes. I have marked down everything in Lilleypics by 10%, using the code 'rhodagirls3'. Remember, there is still no shipping on all cards for another few days. If you want to give the cards as a Chanukah or Christmas gift, they will be wrapped in rice paper, decoratively tied w/ hemp string. Every piece of jewelry in Lilleypad has also been marked down by 10%, using the code 'amylikesjack26'. Your final price will automatically be adjusted to reflect the change of price....so happy shopping everyone!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-11-25T10:16:00.001-05:00

A bless-ed and safe Thanksgiving to all...

November 2010

Remebering Murray...

2010-11-23T19:45:00.005-05:00

Murray, the handsome Sheltey, went to dog heaven on November 18th. He was companion to Mabel (also a Sheltey) for a good decade and my brother and sister-in-law loved him as unconditionally as he so freely loved them. He is sorely missed. So thanks Murray for the memories, all the licks, all the warm cuddles, all the love, all the love, all the love.

I Came Upon a Child of God......

2010-11-21T10:32:00.004-05:00