tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25173341034280002642024-03-13T03:17:16.859-07:00Frost Giant Postcard StudiosAn eclectic round-up of misadventures, interesting events, art projects, and my own odd thoughts.Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.comBlogger231125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-30451395207015451072013-06-01T18:59:00.000-07:002013-06-01T19:00:16.690-07:00Pacific Crossing<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just got a Facebook post from a nephew that merits a share. He and his wife Lily and 2 other women just made first landfall on a Pacific Ocean crossing in an older 30 foot fiberglass sailboat. The boat, a cape dory style boat is named Portal. After 24 days at sea they are in the Northern Marquesas, a blip of an island on the map in the Pacific.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4V3eboTWJ0s/Uaqf_ky_DhI/AAAAAAAADAM/QJa2voEWQo4/s1600/Pacific+crew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4V3eboTWJ0s/Uaqf_ky_DhI/AAAAAAAADAM/QJa2voEWQo4/s400/Pacific+crew.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Lydia, Lily, Charlie and Barbara<br />
The crew<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPK1BwBTQRw/UaqiIew23nI/AAAAAAAADAc/oejR1HvSMgU/s1600/Pixel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPK1BwBTQRw/UaqiIew23nI/AAAAAAAADAc/oejR1HvSMgU/s400/Pixel.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Pixel<br />
The Passenger<br />
<br />
<br />
Their daring adventure is detailed on Lily's blog linked below.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://beelily.wordpress.com/">http://beelily.wordpress.com/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
As an introduction to Charlie and Lily, I have included this blog post from my archive about their 3-day, hippie extravaganza wedding.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qDAv-zfCVAM/Uaql0jAQ4WI/AAAAAAAADAs/Z865Mp5BKZ0/s1600/Wedding+bikes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qDAv-zfCVAM/Uaql0jAQ4WI/AAAAAAAADAs/Z865Mp5BKZ0/s640/Wedding+bikes.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://frostgiantpostcardstudios.blogspot.com/2011_08_01_archive.html">http://frostgiantpostcardstudios.blogspot.com/2011_08_01_archive.html</a><br />
<br />
and<br />
<br />
<a href="http://frostgiantpostcardstudios.blogspot.com/2011_09_01_archive.html">http://frostgiantpostcardstudios.blogspot.com/2011_09_01_archive.html</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Maybe I was that daring once upon a time, but the thought of such a small boat on such a big ocean is a frightening concept now. I knew they were going, but I am glad they have made something like the half way mark on that big slice of ocean.<br />
<br />
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-10706702032536135592013-05-26T17:39:00.000-07:002013-05-26T17:39:39.982-07:00Blue Bird of Happiness<div style="text-align: center;">
A tutorial of sorts, this post shows the making of 15 charms for a swap with the theme Spring. Sixteen were made, just in case something went horribly wrong at some point in production.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5FTuyfxfY88/UaKXW21ZDVI/AAAAAAAAC-0/51GU2suH3xg/s1600/DSCN3851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5FTuyfxfY88/UaKXW21ZDVI/AAAAAAAAC-0/51GU2suH3xg/s400/DSCN3851.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
After deciding to make charms featuring birds and their houses, the next decision was whether to form the charms from Paperclay or Apoxie clay. Paperclay is significantly lighter, but I worried about durability. Banging around on a bracelet or necklace with other charms demands a certain level of toughness. These charms are relatively small so the weight of Apoxie clay is minimized.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was first introduced to the product Apoxie clay by Elizabeth McGrath and it is generally part of the supply list in any Micheal deMeng class. Apoxie Clay is a permanent, self-hardening synthetic clay that combines the features of sculpting clay and two part epoxies.<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15.59375px;"> A link to the manufacturer is included below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.avesstudio.com/index.php">http://www.avesstudio.com/index.php</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In the first step hooks were shaped to be ready for insertion into clay once shapes were constructed. The part that would be inserted into the clay was hammered flat to make it thinner and easier to insert,<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Trgd1L8kxRo/UaKXhJIRPfI/AAAAAAAAC_E/2k5kyc0F3m8/s1600/DSCN3821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Trgd1L8kxRo/UaKXhJIRPfI/AAAAAAAAC_E/2k5kyc0F3m8/s400/DSCN3821.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
After making a small cardboard template of the birdhouse in order to keep the size uniform, I mixed two golf ball sized lumps of part A and Part B Apoxie clay. After a thorough mixing and kneading, the clay was rolled flat with a rolling pin that is only used for craft applications. The clay was cut cookie style with a knife.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4xVErIhGbM/UaKXlgDseoI/AAAAAAAAC_M/LMbnm7Zvn5Q/s1600/DSCN3822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4xVErIhGbM/UaKXlgDseoI/AAAAAAAAC_M/LMbnm7Zvn5Q/s400/DSCN3822.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
The clay from around the edges was collected and divided into 16 small balls that were hand shaped into vaguely bird-like forms. Birds were attached to the houses. Hooks were inserted. Charms were hung to dry and harden.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zgb1Jm8r9-8/UaKXsllI8vI/AAAAAAAAC_U/R3HmUovbT4w/s1600/DSCN3824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zgb1Jm8r9-8/UaKXsllI8vI/AAAAAAAAC_U/R3HmUovbT4w/s400/DSCN3824.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Next comes paint, another decision. The variously shaped birds are sorted. Shapes are very different with some birds shaped like wrens, some like robins and others like gulls. Painting them according to body style seems like the route to go until the time line comes into consideration, a deadline looms.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pg23LbW7f70/UaKX3M0vOBI/AAAAAAAAC_k/q6FqeMUQy6Y/s1600/DSCN3844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pg23LbW7f70/UaKX3M0vOBI/AAAAAAAAC_k/q6FqeMUQy6Y/s400/DSCN3844.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Bluebirds, they will all become bluebirds!They will be bluebirds of happiness even if some look more blue ducks of happiness.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LccxUw4TtE8/UaKXx7ohuCI/AAAAAAAAC_c/h1JyAcXEyMc/s1600/DSCN3843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LccxUw4TtE8/UaKXx7ohuCI/AAAAAAAAC_c/h1JyAcXEyMc/s400/DSCN3843.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Paint goes on in layers.<br />
<br />
Shiny black nail polish is used to create the round, shiny little bird eyes.<br />
<br />
Some of the details are put on with a brush, others with Sharpie pen.<br />
<br />
Lastly, two coats of varnish should enhance the charm durability. If the clock had not been madly ticking toward deadline there may have been a third coat. I dipped and hung the charms to dry. A shiny varnish was selected to mimic glass or porcelain which is a kinesthetic or sensory match to the weight of the charm.<br />
<br />
Charms were packaged up pretty, with a vintage postcard and some ribbon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c_gUUdVJmcE/UaKXbFO_TwI/AAAAAAAAC-8/VqdAUcMYT4o/s1600/DSCN3850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c_gUUdVJmcE/UaKXbFO_TwI/AAAAAAAAC-8/VqdAUcMYT4o/s400/DSCN3850.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Of course you could create charms of any shape or theme using Apoxie clay. It is available in many sized containers and has a shelf life of about 3 years. There will be more items made in this material shortly as my 3 pounds is slouching toward the end of shelf life.<br />
<br />
<br />
Carina<br />
<br /></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-67759035094892858782013-05-12T09:11:00.000-07:002013-05-12T09:17:21.781-07:00Kinetic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Perhaps I am in my cardboard phase. The last two swaps I did with the yahoo journaling group- Creative Art Journaling <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/creativeartjournaling/">http://groups.yahoo.com/group/creativeartjournaling/</a> were made from cardboard.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
This group is small, with 19 members currently and was founded at the beginning this year. There are different prompts each month. In April the challenge was entitled * Surprise Party * and we were to choose your own theme.<br />
<br />
I choose to play with the concept of moving parts, hence the label <span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>kinetic</b></i></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJZBXYNipbI/UYEIyCVrz7I/AAAAAAAAC7o/hh-WVvlIFiI/s1600/DSCN3806.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJZBXYNipbI/UYEIyCVrz7I/AAAAAAAAC7o/hh-WVvlIFiI/s400/DSCN3806.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
On the upper right, a matchbox is set into a cut made into the layers of cardboard and a bead was wired in place to serve as a drawer pull. The box opens and closes. A small plastic dog is the *surprise* found when you open the drawer. This photo shows the open position.<br />
<br />
<br />
Three small balls roll back and forth in the lower slot. Balls are lightweight, made with Paperclay so they do not wear out their cardboard run. One is blue and the other two are white.The window is made from a sheet of mica.<br />
<br />
The word <i><b><span style="font-size: large;">kinetic</span></b></i> is set on a slant to be more dynamic than would the word in the more normal horizontal position. My admiration for the artist Joseph Cornell and his influence on my constructions are evident in this piece.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a fun piece to but complex piece to make. I hope Danita in Campbell River, B.C. Canada likes her page. She was my swap partner for April.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-14302171484794997902013-05-11T05:28:00.000-07:002013-05-11T05:30:10.114-07:00Flaming Parrots - A Type of Tulip<div style="text-align: center;">
Parrot tulips are flamboyant with a capital letter F. They are large and have petals that can be curly, twisted or fringed. Vibrantly colored, many varieties have two or more colors. My favorite variety, the Flaming Parrot is bright yellow with red flames and a bit of green veining. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9--hqmzyAqo/UY2yAd_o29I/AAAAAAAAC-E/blHPzLIu-Hs/s1600/DSCN3790.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9--hqmzyAqo/UY2yAd_o29I/AAAAAAAAC-E/blHPzLIu-Hs/s400/DSCN3790.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Procrastinator that I am, my go to mail order sources often have already sold their stock of bulbs by the time I am ready to order. Not last fall, I ordered and planted those tulip bulbs in a timely fashion and now reap the reward.<br />
<br />
<div class="composeBoxWrapper GIL3GQOBDIB">
</div>
<div class="composeBoxWrapper GIL3GQOBDIB">
</div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wC4-MKo_Kjg/UY2ydO65itI/AAAAAAAAC-U/zjRrQzEZg2s/s1600/DSCN3793.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wC4-MKo_Kjg/UY2ydO65itI/AAAAAAAAC-U/zjRrQzEZg2s/s400/DSCN3793.JPG" width="300" /></a> <br />
<br />
Parrot tulips are mid- to late season bloomers. They were developed from mutations within the Triumph class, hence the large flower size and strong stems. The parrots mix nicely with the pansies we can plant in the fall here in the south.<br />
<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TC4o0Rd2NJ0/UY2yRn7bEYI/AAAAAAAAC-M/sCte1idNXQ4/s1600/DSCN3792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TC4o0Rd2NJ0/UY2yRn7bEYI/AAAAAAAAC-M/sCte1idNXQ4/s320/DSCN3792.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Despite the warnings to plant them in a protected spot, the parrots have actually fared rather well, standing up to the multiple rains we have had in this unusually wet spring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31K2K7IKYO0/UY2iufS4W4I/AAAAAAAAC8I/5gF0cNhk77k/s1600/DSCN3830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31K2K7IKYO0/UY2iufS4W4I/AAAAAAAAC8I/5gF0cNhk77k/s400/DSCN3830.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And the season is progressing, a tree peony is in bloom and the iris will be in their glory very soon. Take a walk and see what is blooming in your neighborhood.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-32761490835450639112013-04-30T18:29:00.001-07:002013-04-30T18:29:22.920-07:00Illustrating a Bob Marley Quote<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These ATCs were mailed out to Raleigh, North Carolina today.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7t3U-PN7p9g/UYBfOMQU0pI/AAAAAAAAC7E/f5z2vz_TwFo/s1600/DSCN3800.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7t3U-PN7p9g/UYBfOMQU0pI/AAAAAAAAC7E/f5z2vz_TwFo/s320/DSCN3800.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Are you asking what an ATC is? Here is the explanation.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They are miniature works of art about the same size as a baseball card. Originating in Switzerland, the ATC movement was a spin-off from the mail art scene. Produced in a variety of media, the cards are traded or exchanged.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XikNhf45HE4/UYBeK50bFnI/AAAAAAAAC60/iJUEWGtdYjQ/s1600/DSCN3798.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XikNhf45HE4/UYBeK50bFnI/AAAAAAAAC60/iJUEWGtdYjQ/s320/DSCN3798.JPG" width="320" /></a><br /><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-1"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_trading_cards#cite_note-1"><span></span><span></span></a></sup><span class="frac nowrap"></span><span class="frac nowrap"></span><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-2"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_trading_cards#cite_note-2"><span></span><span></span></a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-3"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_trading_cards#cite_note-3"><span></span><span></span></a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-4"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_trading_cards#cite_note-4"><span></span><span></span></a></sup> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The small group orchestrating this swap picks a monthly theme. April's theme was rain. I browsed through my rainy day photographs and paired them with a Bob Marley quote - </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ebk4PI-MIuQ/UYBgqvURrOI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/UYJdq0lqXDw/s1600/DSCN3804.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ebk4PI-MIuQ/UYBgqvURrOI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/UYJdq0lqXDw/s320/DSCN3804.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The top two photographs are from New York City this past March, the one below is from San Miguel de Allende in February 2012.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7Ve7cqv4Bc/UYBe6G_Mj1I/AAAAAAAAC68/d19738yn3iA/s1600/DSCN3799.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T7Ve7cqv4Bc/UYBe6G_Mj1I/AAAAAAAAC68/d19738yn3iA/s320/DSCN3799.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While the quote is generally attributed to Bob Marley, research indicates the words may originate in a Turkish poem entitled I Am Afraid by Qyzzirah Syeikh Ariffin.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As often is the case, once you start looking at the background story, it gets more complicated.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ah well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-15427770900145344602013-04-23T17:14:00.001-07:002013-04-23T17:14:23.262-07:00Charmsters - Re-Purposed Charm Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B_-cpLakOFs/UXQH9OzrbVI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/Lbq431fjaH0/s1600/DSCN3755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B_-cpLakOFs/UXQH9OzrbVI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/Lbq431fjaH0/s320/DSCN3755.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you are a long time reader of this blog, you know that I often find treats in my mailbox. This post serves as eye candy for people interested in handmade charms.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0K7aCOuEHT4/UXQJC7vKvSI/AAAAAAAAC3U/abkkmn97biQ/s1600/DSCN3756.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0K7aCOuEHT4/UXQJC7vKvSI/AAAAAAAAC3U/abkkmn97biQ/s320/DSCN3756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I belong to a Yahoo group called Charmsters. It was created by Laurel
Stevens in 2007. We are a group of a little over 100 people that make
and swap charms through the mail. Jean Brederode and Erin Keck became
our group moderators in 2011 .</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Participants sign up for specific swaps that interest them. This Re-Purposed swap was hosted by Nancy Clark. Something on these charms had to be recycled, up-cycled, or re-purposed. Once we mailed her our submissions, she sorted the charms and shipped them to participants.<br />
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_TcGdI5yATE/UXQJIn2qONI/AAAAAAAAC3c/aosTwo_aBA0/s1600/DSCN3757.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_TcGdI5yATE/UXQJIn2qONI/AAAAAAAAC3c/aosTwo_aBA0/s320/DSCN3757.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is a pictorial record of the contents of that swap.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d6kytTE3ch8/UXQLPOl6WoI/AAAAAAAAC38/oZNQfipWBDM/s1600/DSCN3761.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d6kytTE3ch8/UXQLPOl6WoI/AAAAAAAAC38/oZNQfipWBDM/s320/DSCN3761.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our hostess Nancy Clark made this charm using smashed metal buttons. She has an etsy store - <a href="http://renewedintent.etsy.com/">renewedintent.etsy.com</a><br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XJ30IUlPyMw/UXQLaQ7-7UI/AAAAAAAAC4E/KIrQEO8m9Qc/s1600/DSCN3762.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XJ30IUlPyMw/UXQLaQ7-7UI/AAAAAAAAC4E/KIrQEO8m9Qc/s320/DSCN3762.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Using some form of resin, long time charmster, Zhulia Abrok fashioned this postage stamp charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OpyBeccheg4/UXQLo8F1iiI/AAAAAAAAC4M/Wt4k3ScJ0pY/s1600/DSCN3764.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OpyBeccheg4/UXQLo8F1iiI/AAAAAAAAC4M/Wt4k3ScJ0pY/s320/DSCN3764.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Laura Oneil re-purposed discarded gift cards. She packaged them with laser cut stationary and paper towel that achieved green color soaking up left over dye from Easter egg coloring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6QR9reqH3s/UXQL3dXX04I/AAAAAAAAC4U/96Ypi1SDRXQ/s1600/DSCN3765.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6QR9reqH3s/UXQL3dXX04I/AAAAAAAAC4U/96Ypi1SDRXQ/s320/DSCN3765.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have dismantled my share of vegetable steamers and often purchase them when I see them at garage sales, but have never cut up the individual leaves like Glenda Griffith did. She even used her husbands grinding wheel to round the corners.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUtoyzDiqL8/UXQK3vZOKwI/AAAAAAAAC30/Fqn0r5aA61Y/s1600/DSCN3760.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUtoyzDiqL8/UXQK3vZOKwI/AAAAAAAAC30/Fqn0r5aA61Y/s400/DSCN3760.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another long time member of the group, Lori Guerin used an old sewing machine bobbin to create this charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ppwo-Mh4vN8/UXQNenmQgmI/AAAAAAAAC4s/uLVKfm6pz58/s1600/DSCN3768.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ppwo-Mh4vN8/UXQNenmQgmI/AAAAAAAAC4s/uLVKfm6pz58/s320/DSCN3768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Minette Miller combined a small ornate key and some floral bead components to fashion this charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Cb3G_Dk8SU/UXQNJihB5nI/AAAAAAAAC4k/wfCr-KKiSKs/s1600/DSCN3766.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Cb3G_Dk8SU/UXQNJihB5nI/AAAAAAAAC4k/wfCr-KKiSKs/s400/DSCN3766.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Marjorie Grace-Sayers combined gears and a brad to produce this steam punk inspired charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-69IiYR5OFsM/UXQNpzi3RfI/AAAAAAAAC40/nNJ_IUgl1F8/s1600/DSCN3769.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-69IiYR5OFsM/UXQNpzi3RfI/AAAAAAAAC40/nNJ_IUgl1F8/s320/DSCN3769.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Erin Keck added an amusement park token to her steam punk mix.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ReuYlTJ-I2k/UXQN0HlHoJI/AAAAAAAAC48/kNYm5U6FGWM/s1600/DSCN3770.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ReuYlTJ-I2k/UXQN0HlHoJI/AAAAAAAAC48/kNYm5U6FGWM/s320/DSCN3770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LuBfM9mdpo4/UXQN8mcn2JI/AAAAAAAAC5E/HHijthKtFbE/s1600/DSCN3771.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LuBfM9mdpo4/UXQN8mcn2JI/AAAAAAAAC5E/HHijthKtFbE/s320/DSCN3771.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Eunice Oakley decorated and beaded an industrial washer to create her charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ah80Ji5z2I/UXQOs9YKgRI/AAAAAAAAC5c/PiMOhQ5ZhwA/s1600/DSCN3774.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ah80Ji5z2I/UXQOs9YKgRI/AAAAAAAAC5c/PiMOhQ5ZhwA/s320/DSCN3774.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bella Richey gathered together an assortment of beads to assemble this charm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlUG_Zfw4Oc/UXQPoJ1iNvI/AAAAAAAAC5k/sRz-wQaFKP8/s1600/DSCN3775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlUG_Zfw4Oc/UXQPoJ1iNvI/AAAAAAAAC5k/sRz-wQaFKP8/s320/DSCN3775.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5uEnomye9Q/UXQP8xNcCwI/AAAAAAAAC5s/Z46YxoaNOzQ/s1600/DSCN3776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5uEnomye9Q/UXQP8xNcCwI/AAAAAAAAC5s/Z46YxoaNOzQ/s320/DSCN3776.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots of tiny little goodies came along with the Barbie shoe charm that was marked renew your sole/soul.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Lhs40YAd7w/UXQQeEq9woI/AAAAAAAAC6E/F7bG7KhVEGI/s1600/DSCN3779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Lhs40YAd7w/UXQQeEq9woI/AAAAAAAAC6E/F7bG7KhVEGI/s320/DSCN3779.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Katie Margolis glammed up this chess piece with a wee bit of paint and some beads.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u--G0KbFvHs/UXQRA0WcMTI/AAAAAAAAC6M/WREIVx1NtGw/s1600/DSCN3778.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u--G0KbFvHs/UXQRA0WcMTI/AAAAAAAAC6M/WREIVx1NtGw/s400/DSCN3778.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Susan Zacher got her game on and combined a translucent red poker chip and a Lotto game piece.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riTNrxlF8WI/UXQOQeEnWQI/AAAAAAAAC5U/F5jy9RLZZOg/s1600/DSCN3773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riTNrxlF8WI/UXQOQeEnWQI/AAAAAAAAC5U/F5jy9RLZZOg/s320/DSCN3773.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Denise Hase put together 3 beads and a washer for this charm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bq2oYlBqEQY/UXQJQaYO9II/AAAAAAAAC3k/drbB2Cyk1VU/s1600/DSCN3758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bq2oYlBqEQY/UXQJQaYO9II/AAAAAAAAC3k/drbB2Cyk1VU/s320/DSCN3758.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pen barrels painted silver and end caps make for a cute little bird house charm designed by the imaginative Jo Morrison.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only charm missing from this line up is my own. The plan is to feature that in a future blog post. Hope looking at these creative interpretations makes you look twice before tossing that odd object. It might just be perfect for another use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-26305080390744730112013-04-20T09:19:00.000-07:002013-04-20T09:19:17.912-07:00The Most Imaginative Macaron Flavors in New York City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WATvv5XIQks/UWy3BuobWpI/AAAAAAAAC1I/0eiszYIjpTg/s1600/DSCN3612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WATvv5XIQks/UWy3BuobWpI/AAAAAAAAC1I/0eiszYIjpTg/s400/DSCN3612.JPG" width="300" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a rainy Tuesday in March when I discovered Macaron Parlour on St Marks in the East Village. While this discovery did not cause the clouds to part instantly and the sun to burst forth, it sure did brighten my day. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First there is the charming and helpful owner, Simon Tung working the front counter. He encouraged my photo taking and explained the many flavors.If you want to see an example of the multiplicity of varieties click on the link below. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://macaronparlour.com/macarons">http://macaronparlour.com/macarons</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p-s5Txb35xY/UWy4kWprATI/AAAAAAAAC1k/iIR6p7k-Ldc/s1600/DSCN3616.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p-s5Txb35xY/UWy4kWprATI/AAAAAAAAC1k/iIR6p7k-Ldc/s400/DSCN3616.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Selections vary with new and sometimes experimental kinds finding their way into the bakery lineup. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpXKpTaOqvk/UWy7VEC125I/AAAAAAAAC18/RazVHvrFL_o/s1600/DSCN3615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpXKpTaOqvk/UWy7VEC125I/AAAAAAAAC18/RazVHvrFL_o/s320/DSCN3615.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Selecting which macarons to purchase is a sweet agony to endure. Giggity did make the cut. It has ingredients that make it resemble the most upscale Snickers bar on planet earth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jN0WDFVuLvw/UWy7jtlzgWI/AAAAAAAAC2E/xusm9DGHd3A/s1600/DSCN3618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jN0WDFVuLvw/UWy7jtlzgWI/AAAAAAAAC2E/xusm9DGHd3A/s320/DSCN3618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Elvis was left for another tasting as bananas are not my favorite flavor.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3bc0ZRs1fQ4/UWy8fYpALZI/AAAAAAAAC2k/qLTIRxVXEK0/s1600/DSCN3619.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3bc0ZRs1fQ4/UWy8fYpALZI/AAAAAAAAC2k/qLTIRxVXEK0/s400/DSCN3619.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Candied bacon with a maple cream cheese filling, odd and trendy as the combination sounds, gets my vote as a solidly delicious choice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As someone that has sampled some of the best macarons in France and tried them wherever I find them here in the states, I would definitely recommend a visit to the Macaron Parlour should you find yourself on the lower east side of New York City. Your mouth will thank you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-49479768240834029552013-04-14T17:16:00.003-07:002013-04-14T17:16:51.393-07:00Rhubarb - No, it's not red celery<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
For some, asparagus heralds the arrival of spring, but rhubarb is what tells me the days are getting longer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lpqYIirmyQ/UUSaqdn-mgI/AAAAAAAACz0/1bu_UpNi_iM/s1600/Rhubarb+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lpqYIirmyQ/UUSaqdn-mgI/AAAAAAAACz0/1bu_UpNi_iM/s320/Rhubarb+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
The bright red stalks are now available at my local grocery store, even if the checkout clerks born and raised here in the south have no idea what this particular item is.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Is that celery, ma'am?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
"No, it's rhubarb"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"How do you spell that?" as they attempt to look up the correct produce code.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Growing up in Wisconsin, rhubarb was homegrown and prolific. Where I live now in southwestern Virginia, soil ph is more acid and it does not get an adequate interval of winter chill making it difficult to raise, so storebought will have to do. While there needs to be at least one rhubarb-yellow raisin custard pie for it really to be spring, this is an easier and delicious way to kick off the culinary arrival of the season.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fR8xKZwZvBc/UUSayAqSm-I/AAAAAAAACz8/WxtjbIgJwHc/s1600/Rhubarb+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fR8xKZwZvBc/UUSayAqSm-I/AAAAAAAACz8/WxtjbIgJwHc/s320/Rhubarb+2.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Stewed Rhubarb with Yellow Raisins</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Ingredients<br />
3 -4 Stalks of rhubarb<br />
Handful of yellow raisins<br />
sugar<br />
water <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5dIfuSjKbjc/UUSa58LuP2I/AAAAAAAAC0E/2GKt15mSzfI/s1600/Rhubarb+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5dIfuSjKbjc/UUSa58LuP2I/AAAAAAAAC0E/2GKt15mSzfI/s320/Rhubarb+3.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Procedure<br />
Wash and trim rhubarb. Slice rhubarb crossways into pieces between 1/4 and 1/2 inch long. Put about 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan. Add raisin and simmer a few minutes to plump. Add rhubarb and about 3 tablespoons sugar. Simmer until rhubarb is tender, a scant 5 minutes. Taste and adjust level of sweetness, adding more sugar if needed.<br />
<br />
Serve warm or to my preference, chill and spoon over vanilla ice cream. If you are virtuous,<span id="goog_15131264"></span><span id="goog_15131265"></span> you may substitute vanilla yogurt. One can make just plain stewed rhubarb, but the raisins pair so nicely, it is a shame to leave them out.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNGOWe4n5_o/UWtGn35c__I/AAAAAAAAC0w/vYFwXpNVc3g/s1600/R+sauce.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNGOWe4n5_o/UWtGn35c__I/AAAAAAAAC0w/vYFwXpNVc3g/s320/R+sauce.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-17336379710474900342013-03-16T06:46:00.000-07:002013-03-16T06:46:08.159-07:00Things once old are new again - Richmonds Main Street Station<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xFBOh2Hovfw/UUPkGhAlzDI/AAAAAAAACy0/GX6qTPibh94/s1600/398px-Main_Street_Station.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xFBOh2Hovfw/UUPkGhAlzDI/AAAAAAAACy0/GX6qTPibh94/s320/398px-Main_Street_Station.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
During the first half of the 20th century, great trains with splendid names made stops at Richmond's Main Street Station. The Silver Meteor, the Fast,Flying Virginian, the George Washington and the Orange Blossom Special all arrived and departed from here. Trains carried upwards of one million passengers per year through this station. In 1975 travel here ceased.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvPhFZTK6RA/UUPmfhfBn6I/AAAAAAAACy8/THlREpEpXeI/s1600/orangetop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvPhFZTK6RA/UUPmfhfBn6I/AAAAAAAACy8/THlREpEpXeI/s320/orangetop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
On October 7,1983 this lovely 5 story Beaux-Arts architectural gem nearly was destroyed by fire. The fire was one of Richmond's largest, a 6 alarm behemoth, requiring the services of a dozen engine companies, seven ladder companies and more than 110 firefighters to get the blaze under control. During the firefight, Ronald Lewis the Fire Chief had to be dissuaded from pulling down the large 4 faced clock tower crowning the building. He feared that extensive fire damage might cause the tower to collapse onto the nearby elevated interstate highway.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-msgw3XU2JVY/UUR2OqqAYJI/AAAAAAAACzk/OfRXmV_bCCU/s1600/Fire.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-msgw3XU2JVY/UUR2OqqAYJI/AAAAAAAACzk/OfRXmV_bCCU/s320/Fire.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
Restored with insurance proceeds, Main Street Station's second life as an outlet specialty mall was brief, lasting 2 years from 1985 to 1987. Next it housed the offices of the Virginia Dept. of Health.<br />
In 2000 the city of Richmond completed negotiations with the Commonwealth of Virginia and purchased the Main Street Station property. By 2003 passenger train service returned. Plans for the future will entail full build-out of the rail system with 38 trains rolling through on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1hqrfjgI-k8/UUPp6V1dXJI/AAAAAAAACzI/Fq-JzDCcl10/s1600/train+arrives.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1hqrfjgI-k8/UUPp6V1dXJI/AAAAAAAACzI/Fq-JzDCcl10/s320/train+arrives.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
I departed from this grand old station en route to New York City's Penn Station. Amtrak currently has one East Coast corridor train arriving and departing daily. It is a 7 hour trip, but provides a good deal more leg room and ability to move around than an airline flight. There are laptop plugins and wi-fi service. The food is a step up from airline grade and while Amtrak apparently will perform random passenger searches, I never had to take off my shoes, go through a metal detector or be X-ray scanned.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_SZZQYt6Nm0/UUR0AXp0SqI/AAAAAAAACzc/JTS6KfOjsNo/s1600/Amtrack+sign.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_SZZQYt6Nm0/UUR0AXp0SqI/AAAAAAAACzc/JTS6KfOjsNo/s320/Amtrack+sign.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Amtrak is an attractive travel option.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-21310294402706409732013-02-12T04:55:00.000-08:002013-02-12T05:07:59.696-08:00 Trifecta<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Today, February 12 is a personal trifecta, okay not in the strictest dictionary definition of the word, not a bet on the ponies, but a day of triple celebration. The obvious ones that I share with many people being Lincoln's birthday and Mardi Gras. The celebration shared with my husband is our third wedding anniversary.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mw2yW-s_k9c/URo7LnUdm-I/AAAAAAAACxo/9-IM7H5uANo/s1600/18552_1244240424614_2684675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mw2yW-s_k9c/URo7LnUdm-I/AAAAAAAACxo/9-IM7H5uANo/s320/18552_1244240424614_2684675_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I guess after living together for 25 years, we thought the relationship might last and we tied the knot. In actuality, it was his urgent need for health insurance that played a significant part in the timing of the decision.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0U1DYjN0ns/URo6O8Wbk6I/AAAAAAAACxg/JtV5C-u1a0c/s1600/ObamaLincolnFolded.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P0U1DYjN0ns/URo6O8Wbk6I/AAAAAAAACxg/JtV5C-u1a0c/s320/ObamaLincolnFolded.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Just think, had there been universal healthcare we would probably still be living in sin.<br />
<br />
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-53522784245396377372013-02-11T17:53:00.000-08:002013-02-12T04:12:49.446-08:00A Deli Lady and the Public Library to the Rescue<div style="text-align: center;">
What's a woman to do? Sometimes it takes complex problem solving skills and the nerves of a bomb squad technician to work around the current post office set-up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gq60LlvwC_A/URmgZq8uSYI/AAAAAAAACw4/WgQtqzsoUAI/s1600/DSCN1931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gq60LlvwC_A/URmgZq8uSYI/AAAAAAAACw4/WgQtqzsoUAI/s320/DSCN1931.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The dilemma</span><br />
a large envelope that must be weighed to ascertain correct postage <span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">And</span> <span style="font-size: small;">a wo<span style="font-size: small;">rk schedule that is the same as post office hours. <span style="font-size: small;">M</span>y usual solution is to mail packages <span style="font-size: small;">on Saturda<span style="font-size: small;">y mornings, but last Saturday morning had other priorities. Last time I checked<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> there was a scale in the post office lobby that could be used after window hours.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Guess What? </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The self service<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: small;">postal scales have <span style="font-size: small;">been removed from the lobby.<span style="font-size: small;"> I really wanted to mail th<span style="font-size: small;">e</span> envelope out this weekend, it contained not only W-<span style="font-size: small;">2's for the d<span style="font-size: small;">aughter, but also a handmade Valentin<span style="font-size: small;">e postcard tha<span style="font-size: small;">t was too textured to travel well outside an envelope<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Next stop in my afternoon errands was the pharmacy. Thinking they weigh thin<span style="font-size: small;">gs, I brought the envelope in. <span style="font-size: small;">It was a<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span>No <span style="font-size: small;">G</span>o there. It seems their scale is set <span style="font-size: small;">up to <span style="font-size: small;">weigh such light things they would need to recalibrate their scale to acco<span style="font-size: small;">mmodate me.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stop three the grocery. The Deli lady was happy to <span style="font-size: small;">help me out. My envelope weighed .13<span style="font-size: small;"> po<span style="font-size: small;">unds<span style="font-size: small;">, bringing me one step closer to a solution. Groceries loaded into the ca<span style="font-size: small;">r, the next destination was the library.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Why?</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The library has public access computers. I <span style="font-size: small;">generally use the library one town over a<span style="font-size: small;">nd that is where my card is<span style="font-size: small;">, so I had to register as a guest. The librarian warned me that they were closing soon and I only had minutes to complete my task. Logging on, there were 2 minutes a<span style="font-size: small;">nd 35 se<span style="font-size: small;">conds to work with. First the easy conversion of .13 pounds to </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;">2.08 ounces. Next<span style="font-size: small;"> step was</span> finding correct the <span style="font-size: small;">table of current postage rates. This proved slightly more challenging<span style="font-size: small;">. The first table was too complex and leng<span style="font-size: small;">thy for the time available<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span>to</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> scan and extract needed information. A different link took me to a sim<span style="font-size: small;">pler table.<span style="font-size: small;"> This env<span style="font-size: small;">elope required $1.32 to reach Richmond. I closed the computer with 40 seconds to spare, feeling a little like a bomb squad technician.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lastly, a few stamps and a q<span style="font-size: small;">uick <span style="font-size: small;">trip to the post office a<span style="font-size: small;">nd my envelope was <span style="font-size: small;">headed to Richmond.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Carina </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span> </span></span></span></span></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-86009522655499551302013-02-05T17:50:00.001-08:002013-02-05T17:51:47.965-08:00Three Fridays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0orpWUQxdjw/URBhQezZiCI/AAAAAAAACv0/cLBztOMkubQ/s1600/DSCN1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0orpWUQxdjw/URBhQezZiCI/AAAAAAAACv0/cLBztOMkubQ/s320/DSCN1985.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Three Fridays in a row,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iai_RCnd5qE/URBhTYAERZI/AAAAAAAACv8/HPUv0OUOpOA/s1600/DSCN1987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iai_RCnd5qE/URBhTYAERZI/AAAAAAAACv8/HPUv0OUOpOA/s320/DSCN1987.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
we've had more than a little snow.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJuB07VYtKY/URBhVwniT1I/AAAAAAAACwE/stoyA6_q-Mg/s1600/DSCN1988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cJuB07VYtKY/URBhVwniT1I/AAAAAAAACwE/stoyA6_q-Mg/s320/DSCN1988.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 class="title" itemprop="name" style="text-align: center;">
Dust of Snow</h2>
<div style="margin-top: 20px; min-height: 570px; text-align: center;">
<div class="KonaBody">
The way a crow<br />
Shook down on me<br />
The dust of snow<br />
From a hemlock tree<br />
<br />
Has given my heart<br />
A change of mood<br />
And saved some part <br />
Of a day I had rued.
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="poet" itemprop="author">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Robert Frost</i></span><br />
<br />
</div>
<div class="poet" itemprop="author">
</div>
<div class="poet" itemprop="author">
</div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-79_mUIXFNT4/URBhYuYMrhI/AAAAAAAACwM/3ZTx1Gu9ZrQ/s1600/DSCN1989.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-79_mUIXFNT4/URBhYuYMrhI/AAAAAAAACwM/3ZTx1Gu9ZrQ/s320/DSCN1989.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
<div class="poet" itemprop="author">
<span style="font-size: large;"><i> </i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fortunately the forecast for next Friday reads as follows:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clouds giving way to sun . Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the low 30s. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No snow!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Carina </div>
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-56894185539833581752013-01-19T14:13:00.001-08:002013-01-19T14:13:41.505-08:00Resolved<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The resolution is simpler blog posts written more frequently.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zIaeMDsb5Ww/UPsUJX8V-gI/AAAAAAAACuc/cblsq-7fKkQ/s1600/DSCN1949.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zIaeMDsb5Ww/UPsUJX8V-gI/AAAAAAAACuc/cblsq-7fKkQ/s320/DSCN1949.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Over time my posts have become longer and more complex. That in itself is a sign of growth in my ability to compose a post, but it has led to seeing the task as daunting and fewer posts are the result.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The original intent of this blog was to be a letter to friends and family complete with a few photos and less postage. My plan is a return to that intent, mixing simple and spontaneous photos and text with some of the more involved constructions that have become my norm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TJWZe_YI65o/UPsX4Htqo4I/AAAAAAAACvA/L2HqCUPXyg8/s1600/DSCN1950.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TJWZe_YI65o/UPsX4Htqo4I/AAAAAAAACvA/L2HqCUPXyg8/s320/DSCN1950.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photographed above is the best dessert I ate over the past holiday season. It was served at Fig in Asheville, NC and consists of a lime and lemongrass panna cotta topped with a Thai chilli and raspberry sorbet, a tiny bit of chamomile syrup and accompanied with a square of cashew brittle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I ate lots of yummy things over the holidays, but this one was hands down the very best.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-85968023153689615862012-12-30T17:55:00.000-08:002012-12-30T17:55:03.374-08:00Possibly the best cut-out Gingerbread cookies<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UJnXyN2iVc/UODucdwGHxI/AAAAAAAACtw/oF5Rtatux-s/s1600/DSCN1957.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UJnXyN2iVc/UODucdwGHxI/AAAAAAAACtw/oF5Rtatux-s/s320/DSCN1957.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #bf9000;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #bf9000;">Pepparkakor </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Story of a family r<span style="font-size: large;">ecipe found, lost and found again</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rG_lA532es0/UKl2CxlVNXI/AAAAAAAACss/J-oY-6_jE5E/s1600/DSCN1831.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rG_lA532es0/UKl2CxlVNXI/AAAAAAAACss/J-oY-6_jE5E/s320/DSCN1831.JPG" width="320" /></a>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Recipe</span><br />
<br />
Ingredients<br />
<br />
1/2 lb butter (2 sticks)<br />
1 and 1/2 cup sugar<br />
1 tablespoons molasses<br />
2 teaspoons baking soda<br />
1 egg<br />
3 and 1/4 cup flour<br />
2 teaspoons cinnamon<br />
1 teaspoons ginger<br />
1 teaspoon cloves<br />
Juice and zest of 1 orange<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6MdsBMJphc/UKl2QqXS-II/AAAAAAAACs0/suBJvctRY0k/s1600/DSCN1840.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6MdsBMJphc/UKl2QqXS-II/AAAAAAAACs0/suBJvctRY0k/s320/DSCN1840.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d37yOWqvSE4/UKl2Y6lQEYI/AAAAAAAACs8/bs8AtyVJKEE/s1600/DSCN1842.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d37yOWqvSE4/UKl2Y6lQEYI/AAAAAAAACs8/bs8AtyVJKEE/s320/DSCN1842.JPG" width="320" /></a> <br />
<br />
Cream the butter,sugar and molasses until well mixed. Add the egg. Mix again. Add the zest grated off the orange and the juice you squeezed out of it.<br />
<br />
Mix the dry ingredients and add to the butter mixture. Combine thoroughly.<br />
<br />
Wrap or put bowl in the refrigerator until chilled through and stiff.<br />
Roll out dough on a floured surface. Use cookie cutters to cut out cute shapes. Transfer onto a cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees until light browning is seen at the edges, about 10 to 12 minutes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gYcfoLXwH0I/UKl2iy_n1kI/AAAAAAAACtE/1JXWEg4012I/s1600/DSCN1847.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gYcfoLXwH0I/UKl2iy_n1kI/AAAAAAAACtE/1JXWEg4012I/s320/DSCN1847.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The Story</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I've been a witness to the tale and will retell it here.Mom got the recipe through the Vasa Lodge about 1967 or 1968, maybe a few years before then. The Vasa Lodge is a benefit fraternal organization for Swedish immigrants to which my parents to belonged.The only person that can argue or more accurately pinpoint the date is my brother and I am relatively certain he does not actively read my blog.<br />
After my mother Ingeborg first baked these cookies, they immediately became one of our Christmas standards. Inga had other pepparkakor recipes, but we just loved the extra dimension made by adding orange to the dough.<br />
<br />
Sadly, one Christmas many years later, maybe after she moved from the house on Wauwatosa Road to the one in Cedarburg, the handwritten 3 x 5 recipe card had disappeared. It no longer lived in the green rosemaling-decorated, metal recipe box. Old Swedish friends were called and research was done at the local library to no avail. No one had a copy of the recipe.<br />
<br />
Christmas went on, but with different pepparkakor. Cookies that were adequate, but not quite as delicious.<br />
<br />
Then, the cookies showed up at my mother-in-laws! My all dutch-all the time mother-in-law had the recipe. I had passed the recipe along years before and forgotten about doing so. <br />
<br />
To make sure this recipe did not disappear again, I purchased an 8 x 10 framed picture at the thrift store. Took the picture out and replaced it with a drawing and the recipe. That picture now hangs at my nephews house. One holiday, when I could not easily find the recipe, I asked him to photograph the framed recipe and post it to facebook. Now it will also live on my blog.<br />
<br />
Hope you find these cookies to your liking.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHnDi9eZ0Ms/UODugzWFWPI/AAAAAAAACt4/68S87GVSlME/s1600/DSCN1958.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kHnDi9eZ0Ms/UODugzWFWPI/AAAAAAAACt4/68S87GVSlME/s320/DSCN1958.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-22450467504693966552012-11-17T10:45:00.001-08:002012-11-17T10:45:46.403-08:00Martin Creed - Deep Purple<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art could be your worst nightmare if you are allergic to latex or claustrophobic. For the rest of us it is a unique and enchanting experience. The exhibit features 27,000 purple balloons piled 8 feet deep in a room with mostly glass walls.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sR5levqTlfA/UKfPTVIhDqI/AAAAAAAACsA/PZjDPnxf8aA/s1600/DSCN1386.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sR5levqTlfA/UKfPTVIhDqI/AAAAAAAACsA/PZjDPnxf8aA/s320/DSCN1386.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This installation is the work of British artist and musician Martin Creed. Entitled Half the Air in a Given Space, this concept was first created in 1998 with white balloons and has been reenacted several times since in different colors and configurations.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhIHk8Hr7wE/UKAwQvAabCI/AAAAAAAACq4/VqdoGqRQF1M/s1600/DSCN1366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhIHk8Hr7wE/UKAwQvAabCI/AAAAAAAACq4/VqdoGqRQF1M/s320/DSCN1366.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As the name suggests, half a room's entire volume is filled with
air-inflated balloons and then visitors are encouraged to walk through.
“It is important to me,” says Creed, “that the situation is normal,
that, as usual, the space is full of air; it’s just that half of it [is]
inside the balloons.”
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TTdZX5grorw/UKAwLyHkU2I/AAAAAAAACqw/fUGi5hTEI6M/s1600/DSCN1363.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TTdZX5grorw/UKAwLyHkU2I/AAAAAAAACqw/fUGi5hTEI6M/s320/DSCN1363.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Meant to evoke a sense of celebration and remembrance of childhood,
the installation is almost guaranteed to leave everyone giggling or with a smile on
their face. As you can see here one of the major challenges for exhibit staff is to get people in and out without loosing large quantities of balloons in the process.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Only 10 people were allowed in at a time and you flattened yourself as close to the glass as possible and slid in .</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CE8S34K9eU0/UKAws40VVuI/AAAAAAAACrI/kQ0TUVJMPFo/s1600/DSCN1362.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CE8S34K9eU0/UKAws40VVuI/AAAAAAAACrI/kQ0TUVJMPFo/s320/DSCN1362.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Staff picked up and stuffed stray balloons back in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGhlvKeyXIM/UJ_fdbGkA3I/AAAAAAAACpE/_QR8ftpXUNw/s1600/DSCN1355.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sGhlvKeyXIM/UJ_fdbGkA3I/AAAAAAAACpE/_QR8ftpXUNw/s320/DSCN1355.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because this is a room with 16 foot ceilings, the balloons were 8 feet deep and once inside you were enveloped in a purple landscape. You heard rather than saw other people in the room unless they were extremely close. For me, initial navigation stayed along the perimeter until the situation grew more familiar and then I braved the depths of room central.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unKnbAOcd5s/UJ_fR0QjVUI/AAAAAAAACo8/x16Tly_yHho/s1600/DSCN1353.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unKnbAOcd5s/UJ_fR0QjVUI/AAAAAAAACo8/x16Tly_yHho/s320/DSCN1353.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a bright sunny day and taking pictures of the view through balloons proved entertaining. A cloudy day would likely yield a different experience.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o-1YdVRgW4k/UJ_gIAZF3QI/AAAAAAAACpo/29-LSMCRTI0/s1600/DSCN1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o-1YdVRgW4k/UJ_gIAZF3QI/AAAAAAAACpo/29-LSMCRTI0/s320/DSCN1368.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0znTP8JwZQ/UJ_gQB0o96I/AAAAAAAACpw/4KeCUqkNTek/s1600/DSCN1369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X0znTP8JwZQ/UJ_gQB0o96I/AAAAAAAACpw/4KeCUqkNTek/s320/DSCN1369.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I found it hard to resist a little self portraiture in hard reflective surfaces.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you want to encounter this phenomenon yourself, get a move on to the Cleveland Museum of Art. The exhibit closes November 25,2012 or you'll have to wait for another incarnation somewhere. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vWOIPsO_Rg">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vWOIPsO_Rg</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The link above takes you to the installation at the Rennie Gallery in Vancouver 2011. Watching it reminds me of the effect the balloons had on my hair. Having relatively straight and slick hair I thought dreadlocks were an impossibility for me. The balloons altered that idea. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you watch the video, notice how much these adults are laughing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Go see this, if you have the opportunity.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And if you are not allergic to latex or claustrophobic.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-81758568422551710762012-10-27T16:11:00.000-07:002012-10-29T16:59:42.756-07:00It feels like Christmas at Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is something quite lovely about a package of goodies arriving in the mailbox. Goodies that other hands have made for you. Even if you know they are coming or maybe, it is especially sweet when you are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the mail carrier.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6IqXTpeTM2g/UIxJuTxoKFI/AAAAAAAACkY/opQgeS-2Leg/s1600/DSCN1610.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6IqXTpeTM2g/UIxJuTxoKFI/AAAAAAAACkY/opQgeS-2Leg/s320/DSCN1610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here I test my ability to operate a camera shutter with my left hand while slitting the package tape with a paring knife.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eFxPffi3dc8/UIxJ7Jbn2WI/AAAAAAAACkg/ilyLeybQIlU/s1600/DSCN1611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eFxPffi3dc8/UIxJ7Jbn2WI/AAAAAAAACkg/ilyLeybQIlU/s320/DSCN1611.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I belong to a Yahoo group called Charmsters. It was created by Laurel Stevens in 2007. We are a group of a little over 100 people that make and swap charms through the mail. Jean Brederode and Erin Keck became our group moderators in 2011.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Participants sign up for specific swaps that interest them. This Halloween swap was hosted by Lori Guerin. She sorted the charms that were submitted and shipped them to participants in this snazzy orange bag, fiercely guarded by the skeleton.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uklCesrsuHI/UIxNmdtz8zI/AAAAAAAAClA/X-UkAttOEnU/s1600/DSCN1612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uklCesrsuHI/UIxNmdtz8zI/AAAAAAAAClA/X-UkAttOEnU/s320/DSCN1612.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is my loot all spread out. Next I'll show you the charms one by one and tell you who made them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JAcIHnpgMAU/UIxN7C6xWmI/AAAAAAAAClI/m467RQTgFCA/s1600/DSCN1613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JAcIHnpgMAU/UIxN7C6xWmI/AAAAAAAAClI/m467RQTgFCA/s320/DSCN1613.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A dark stained clay pumpkin with a green glass leaf bead by Kimberly McIntosh</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBitrQAuTQg/UIxOCeg9rtI/AAAAAAAAClQ/hSBONJmBY38/s1600/DSCN1614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBitrQAuTQg/UIxOCeg9rtI/AAAAAAAAClQ/hSBONJmBY38/s320/DSCN1614.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Glass candy corn charm by Marjorie Grace Sayers</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cogXXAsH-aY/UIxOMH2qEgI/AAAAAAAAClc/Ge_yi2kO_Eo/s1600/DSCN1615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cogXXAsH-aY/UIxOMH2qEgI/AAAAAAAAClc/Ge_yi2kO_Eo/s320/DSCN1615.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A bag of assorted goodies and a small vial of stardust from Rena Azevedo Kiehn</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JissGlMbmDc/UIxPGoqKT0I/AAAAAAAAClk/fdIZCp8UE4g/s1600/DSCN1616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JissGlMbmDc/UIxPGoqKT0I/AAAAAAAAClk/fdIZCp8UE4g/s320/DSCN1616.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More goodie loot and a bead embellished skull by Anne Savage</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvXpTOCpWKM/UIxPSxuOsYI/AAAAAAAACls/IVfkhfXceCY/s1600/DSCN1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvXpTOCpWKM/UIxPSxuOsYI/AAAAAAAACls/IVfkhfXceCY/s320/DSCN1617.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dark chocolate and caramel square and a spooky, crackled eyeball by our host Lori Guerin</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3NzZpxRexWg/UIyfmCyak9I/AAAAAAAACnk/iLcs-p0R88s/s1600/Black+Cat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3NzZpxRexWg/UIyfmCyak9I/AAAAAAAACnk/iLcs-p0R88s/s1600/Black+Cat.JPG" /></a></div>
Black cat in a Deschutes Brewery bottle cap by Eunice Oakley</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ey4-nW1MiaE/UIxPrjSeXWI/AAAAAAAACmE/XzIEkUZd5zA/s1600/DSCN1619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ey4-nW1MiaE/UIxPrjSeXWI/AAAAAAAACmE/XzIEkUZd5zA/s320/DSCN1619.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shrinky Dink ghost with dangling bead eyes by your truly</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzGJA0Htidk/UIyf2Gm-xPI/AAAAAAAACns/kIpEmk1i-K0/s1600/Kooky+Bead.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzGJA0Htidk/UIyf2Gm-xPI/AAAAAAAACns/kIpEmk1i-K0/s1600/Kooky+Bead.JPG" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kooky bead embellished skull charm by Zhulia Abrock</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lv_YbUcpp24/UIxP3gJXWNI/AAAAAAAACmY/svmjoec6tmU/s1600/DSCN1621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lv_YbUcpp24/UIxP3gJXWNI/AAAAAAAACmY/svmjoec6tmU/s320/DSCN1621.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Glitter face in a bottle cap charm by Linda Bucci</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6k368BTuSU/UIxP9llHcUI/AAAAAAAACmg/6TbU9eT2tGA/s1600/DSCN1622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k6k368BTuSU/UIxP9llHcUI/AAAAAAAACmg/6TbU9eT2tGA/s320/DSCN1622.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fluffy black fiber embellished skeleton skull charm by Susan Zacher</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1F9F6EDyWrY/UIxQC4muAdI/AAAAAAAACmo/LI6nsZR6UDw/s1600/DSCN1623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1F9F6EDyWrY/UIxQC4muAdI/AAAAAAAACmo/LI6nsZR6UDw/s320/DSCN1623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fused glass gem and Shrinky Dink crow by Carol Ingram Moore</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UC-AYNrnxzo/UIxQIt56icI/AAAAAAAACmw/qdyvs2KEUsY/s1600/DSCN1624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UC-AYNrnxzo/UIxQIt56icI/AAAAAAAACmw/qdyvs2KEUsY/s320/DSCN1624.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enameled candy corn by Susan Berry</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_xKvDW2kw-8/UIxQOvY4a8I/AAAAAAAACm4/Uo26Nfj7ehk/s1600/DSCN1625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_xKvDW2kw-8/UIxQOvY4a8I/AAAAAAAACm4/Uo26Nfj7ehk/s320/DSCN1625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Clay licorice candy and bone skull duo by Amy Huff</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ahKzntVz3qg/UIygN6UhsiI/AAAAAAAACn0/tWMETL5waeo/s1600/Punkin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ahKzntVz3qg/UIygN6UhsiI/AAAAAAAACn0/tWMETL5waeo/s1600/Punkin.JPG" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skull and stiffened baler twine scarecrow by Jo Morrison</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As you can see we all put our own spin on these charms. Packaging and presentation are often almost as interesting as the charms themselves. Next step is to get these lovelies onto some necklace chain before the holiday overtakes me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a spooktacular Halloween.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
P.S. Charmsters - If I made any errors in spelling your name or describing your charm, leave a comment and editing will occur as rapidly as possible.</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-7042042984530979212012-10-21T20:08:00.000-07:002012-10-21T20:08:45.941-07:00Unexpected Beauty - Exit 17 Interstate 26 - North Carolina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yxhZw8Wg4Zw/UIS3lppbI-I/AAAAAAAACjM/u9BDv1R3YfA/s1600/DSCN1687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yxhZw8Wg4Zw/UIS3lppbI-I/AAAAAAAACjM/u9BDv1R3YfA/s320/DSCN1687.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of all the places my travels take me, North Carolina's Department of
Transportation seems to have the most successful wildflower program. The
principal source of revenue is the sale of personalized license plates.
A portion of the extra fee supports wildflower planting and highway
beautification. Some folks also make direct contributions, 100% of which
goes to the program.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VR4OSTYcN0A/UIS30ROi0pI/AAAAAAAACjU/PAdVX7GO8_8/s1600/DSCN1692-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VR4OSTYcN0A/UIS30ROi0pI/AAAAAAAACjU/PAdVX7GO8_8/s320/DSCN1692-2.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This fall day, the sunflowers are making a glorious and cheery visual statement, but I have seen some lovely plantings of corn poppies and gaillardia in other seasons.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QeCkphWVvhQ/UIS395Ai7sI/AAAAAAAACjc/dRI5onb68sk/s1600/DSCN1666-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QeCkphWVvhQ/UIS395Ai7sI/AAAAAAAACjc/dRI5onb68sk/s320/DSCN1666-3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With faces or flower heads that turn through the day to follow the path of the sun, sunflowers symbolize adoration.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2aVAN7yVVQw/UIQ9sXN_DwI/AAAAAAAACh0/fvic4-3EDMw/s1600/DSCN1678.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2aVAN7yVVQw/UIQ9sXN_DwI/AAAAAAAACh0/fvic4-3EDMw/s320/DSCN1678.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Different sources on the language of flowers say that sunflowers represent loyalty and longevity...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqrUmoxJfZs/UIS4L2TVzXI/AAAAAAAACjo/h1RQOCMT8Kw/s1600/DSCN1685-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqrUmoxJfZs/UIS4L2TVzXI/AAAAAAAACjo/h1RQOCMT8Kw/s320/DSCN1685-4.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or pure and lofty thoughts.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CThwDHA7Z38/UIS4T9fkTQI/AAAAAAAACjw/2q4gVtwJ5e4/s1600/DSCN1697-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CThwDHA7Z38/UIS4T9fkTQI/AAAAAAAACjw/2q4gVtwJ5e4/s320/DSCN1697-5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You get to pick your favorite interpretation.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEcZKpqtUc8/UIS4dKWX5CI/AAAAAAAACj4/-vo1Ar5rRH0/s1600/DSCN1667-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VEcZKpqtUc8/UIS4dKWX5CI/AAAAAAAACj4/-vo1Ar5rRH0/s320/DSCN1667-6.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /> </div>
<br />
This spot at exit 17 on Interstate 26 near Weaverville, North Carolina is an easy pull-off and it is just as easy to get back on, so stop and have a look if you pass on by.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jd2LZk4OEc/UIQ7s5bgHII/AAAAAAAAChE/TS6-lImZFog/s1600/DSCN1674.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jd2LZk4OEc/UIQ7s5bgHII/AAAAAAAAChE/TS6-lImZFog/s320/DSCN1674.JPG" width="320" />,</a><br />
<br />
It is a lovely autumn - enjoy it before the snow flies. <br />
<br />
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-22667231512243877022012-09-01T10:09:00.000-07:002012-09-01T11:49:17.557-07:00Button, button...she's got the buttons!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mv0T-jdA6tk/UEItctyDbpI/AAAAAAAACf8/c2Twpjp-bPY/s1600/DSCN1252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mv0T-jdA6tk/UEItctyDbpI/AAAAAAAACf8/c2Twpjp-bPY/s320/DSCN1252.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While not yet in need of a 12-step program, I do have a certain fondness for buttons, old, previously-used buttons in particular. Turns out my friend Cherie St. Cyr shares my predilection for vintage buttons.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My last visit with Cherie occurred this past February, while she was in the winter apartment she owns in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. This time we met up in Madison, Wisconsin, where she spends the rest of her year. Cherie is a textile artist currently focusing on art quilts, a massage therapist and tarot card reader.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Find out more here at her web site:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
http://www.cheriestcyr.net/blog/</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.cheriestcyr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/web-headshot08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.cheriestcyr.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/web-headshot08.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Beyond just chatting, I admit to an ulterior motive; I needed a tutorial on free motion sewing, with a hands on demonstration preferred. Her skillful instruction helped me generate this sunflower and cat thread sketch on a white fabric and batting sandwich.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YOIrs_AH16Y/UEIuZ5F1dAI/AAAAAAAACgk/P5iTFqG7pxE/s1600/Stitch+Cat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YOIrs_AH16Y/UEIuZ5F1dAI/AAAAAAAACgk/P5iTFqG7pxE/s320/Stitch+Cat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The buttons in Cherie's basement studio are sorted into a variety of glass jars by color family.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8Se2HAd7V0/UEIthKW3PqI/AAAAAAAACgE/15-PFsDnIfk/s1600/DSCN1253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j8Se2HAd7V0/UEIthKW3PqI/AAAAAAAACgE/15-PFsDnIfk/s320/DSCN1253.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In the past, she has revealed a particular fondness for red buttons, which may explain why they occupy the fanciest jar on the shelf.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5KMWM1NRFM/UEItmnLhHeI/AAAAAAAACgM/BHX4lNr36SI/s1600/DSCN1254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I5KMWM1NRFM/UEItmnLhHeI/AAAAAAAACgM/BHX4lNr36SI/s320/DSCN1254.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you have a button stash, the next time you look through it, check out how few of the buttons are green. Yellows are also less common, found more often an women's blouses and dresses.It must have taken a while to gather all these.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GyqX6Bv2EA/UEItonvQaYI/AAAAAAAACgU/izuaoJEr4fk/s1600/DSCN1255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GyqX6Bv2EA/UEItonvQaYI/AAAAAAAACgU/izuaoJEr4fk/s320/DSCN1255.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blue buttons are found on both men's and women's garments and are a little easier to obtain.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yRgRQGylK78/UEItqbmvu-I/AAAAAAAACgc/6E1xNnnnDko/s1600/DSCN1258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yRgRQGylK78/UEItqbmvu-I/AAAAAAAACgc/6E1xNnnnDko/s320/DSCN1258.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These larger white carved buttons likely adorned a light colored sundress many decades ago, the plainer buttons something a bit more utilitarian. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Button collections are a relic of a different era. Our grandmothers and sometimes mothers stockpiled such accumulations. Often stored in fancy tin, they amused many a child or grandchild in the sewing room. Button containers and jars belong to an era when clothing was repaired and when the garment was finally worn out, the buttons were cut off to be used to repair a different garment. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While sorting my own buttons by color will wait for another day, I thought Cherie has found a fabulous way to display these little treasures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<br />Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-79862931130954676952012-08-30T04:47:00.001-07:002012-08-30T04:47:59.557-07:00Jennifer Street - Madison, Wisconsin - August 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">Bohemian...Hippie....Green </span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are adjectives easily applied to Jennifer Street. Jenny Street runs parallel to and one block over from the busier Williamson Street in the Marquette neighborhood in Madison, Wisconsin. This neighborhood is one of Madison's oldest with a plethora of architectural styles, including Greek Revival, Italianate and Arts & Crafts bungalows. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
During my recent trip to Wisconsin, I inhabited this vicinity while staying at my sister-in-law's house between Willy and Jenny Streets. While strolling on Jenny Street, I photographed these two yards, about a block apart.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGyZFsZ7TGY/UD7blRZjGlI/AAAAAAAACfc/RrG-kbupj2U/s1600/Beware+re+do.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGyZFsZ7TGY/UD7blRZjGlI/AAAAAAAACfc/RrG-kbupj2U/s320/Beware+re+do.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Obviously not available at the big box stores, these yard art dogs have none too shiny, gravel teeth...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ow2a8Gw2Qo/UD621VkXX1I/AAAAAAAACeU/2jzcOGOiKrw/s1600/Beware++2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ow2a8Gw2Qo/UD621VkXX1I/AAAAAAAACeU/2jzcOGOiKrw/s320/Beware++2.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...and sport dark sunglasses.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pYLgQnVveTo/UD627OCNhQI/AAAAAAAACec/VOcGzJ0Bqrs/s1600/Beware+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pYLgQnVveTo/UD627OCNhQI/AAAAAAAACec/VOcGzJ0Bqrs/s320/Beware+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Serious party animals, these two.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm willing to bet they howl just fine when the moon is full.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ji2GC7V3Wac/UD63D2mqOiI/AAAAAAAACeo/gfu6afL4rpU/s1600/Beware+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ji2GC7V3Wac/UD63D2mqOiI/AAAAAAAACeo/gfu6afL4rpU/s320/Beware+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You may have seen painted bowling balls utilized as yard art before, but these demonstrate the power of quantity and repetition.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DbnsHI2k-Ec/UD64QqiPc8I/AAAAAAAACew/OSAE_Hmi6CY/s1600/jenny+st+bowling.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DbnsHI2k-Ec/UD64QqiPc8I/AAAAAAAACew/OSAE_Hmi6CY/s320/jenny+st+bowling.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The pink zinnias set off the blue bowling balls, offering a pleasing counterpoint.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lx87-cLXjWM/UD64Y40VgSI/AAAAAAAACe4/3pOILVH6ODY/s1600/Jenny+street+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lx87-cLXjWM/UD64Y40VgSI/AAAAAAAACe4/3pOILVH6ODY/s320/Jenny+street+close+up.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The lady of the house was sitting on the screened in porch and she came out to chat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnmm_NXdIK8/UD64gewPqxI/AAAAAAAACfA/adlRLr0vYG8/s1600/jenny+st+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnmm_NXdIK8/UD64gewPqxI/AAAAAAAACfA/adlRLr0vYG8/s320/jenny+st+flowers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
One of her favorite features in the yard are the moon flowers shown here in bud. She grew them from seed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Stay tuned for more trip photos.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-44116492799872860832012-08-16T07:02:00.000-07:002012-08-17T17:57:45.024-07:00Drunken Worms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po7oopBclQs/UBnmt_8y8vI/AAAAAAAACbw/1OKr0z1-4pc/s1600/DSCN0723.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po7oopBclQs/UBnmt_8y8vI/AAAAAAAACbw/1OKr0z1-4pc/s320/DSCN0723.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been in the kitchen channeling Alton Brown, a frat brother and my own inner child. As is often the case, Facebook played a part, reeling me in hook, line and sinker. One of the "friends" linked a photo and recipe for Jello worms, maybe from Pinterest. She vowed to make these worms the next time the grandchildren visited.<br />
<br />
Intrigued? You bet I was, but an adult version of this concoction was in order.<br />
<br />
Here is my kitchen work and wisdom, should you feel the need to follow my example. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xLVkZMLHz_Q/UCR8cYlpWeI/AAAAAAAACcw/ftpkgweXVOo/s1600/IMGP2640.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xLVkZMLHz_Q/UCR8cYlpWeI/AAAAAAAACcw/ftpkgweXVOo/s320/IMGP2640.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First gather your supplies. Bendy straws are required.The unflexed bendy part gives your finished worms that distinctive earthworm bit of anatomy called the clitellum. I suggest looking for wide straws, they unmold a little easier.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cBdXxvcmNQU/UCR8g3wbqbI/AAAAAAAACc4/cMuWd-NQilU/s1600/IMGP2642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cBdXxvcmNQU/UCR8g3wbqbI/AAAAAAAACc4/cMuWd-NQilU/s320/IMGP2642.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
You will want a container that holds the straws snugly. A tall, narrow glass is used here. A washed, used orange juice carton holds more straws and works well too.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rVeYj1awMOs/UCR8miQLq4I/AAAAAAAACdA/lsaaF85KUeo/s1600/IMGP2643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rVeYj1awMOs/UCR8miQLq4I/AAAAAAAACdA/lsaaF85KUeo/s320/IMGP2643.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The recipe:<br />
You will need </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The bigger box of raspberry jello</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Peach scnapps</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heavy or whip cream </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Peach nectar (found this in the Mexican food aisle of the grocery store)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Knox unflavored gelatin</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
green food cloring </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
boiling water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Put it together like this:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. Start 1 and 1/2 cups of water boiling </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. Sprinkle 1 package gelatin over 1/2 cup peach nectar poured into a nonreactive bowl.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. Add boiling water, jello powder. Stir until everything is dissolved.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. Add 3/4 cup cream, stir.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. Add 1 cup peach schnapps.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. Add green food coloring to get your desired reddish-brown, wormy coloring </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7. Pour into straws, leaving a little room at the top.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bc8Z12x0tqU/UCR8qyK8gYI/AAAAAAAACdM/tXoF0yUM0NU/s1600/IMGP2645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bc8Z12x0tqU/UCR8qyK8gYI/AAAAAAAACdM/tXoF0yUM0NU/s320/IMGP2645.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leave a little empty space at the top of your straws. Chill in the refrigerator until set, generally several hours. To unmold, allow the worms to warm a little at room temperature. Grasp the unfilled end between thumb and forefinger. Place the other thumb and forefinger next to the first, with a traveling pinch push the jello worm out the open end, onto some wax paper. After a few tries, you will get the hang of this maneuver and develop your own rhythm. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Put the lovely, unmolded worms back in the fridge to firm up a little, perhaps after tasting a few to check flavor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uTNAole0bIo/UBnmQJAbhxI/AAAAAAAACbk/HWVuxG8Q9Is/s1600/DSCN0724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uTNAole0bIo/UBnmQJAbhxI/AAAAAAAACbk/HWVuxG8Q9Is/s320/DSCN0724.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Worms could probably be made with any red jello and the alcohol flavor is up for further experimentation.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqls7vdy9nI/UBnnQlICk1I/AAAAAAAACb4/yplvHqNMQr0/s1600/DSCN0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqls7vdy9nI/UBnnQlICk1I/AAAAAAAACb4/yplvHqNMQr0/s320/DSCN0727.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For extra versatility your worms can also be used to decorate desserts. They are rather tasty.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QAdzA7r0tUY/UB8ijCAAfaI/AAAAAAAACcU/GFD-Jo4BhEE/s1600/DSCN1000.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QAdzA7r0tUY/UB8ijCAAfaI/AAAAAAAACcU/GFD-Jo4BhEE/s320/DSCN1000.JPG" width="320" /> </a><br />
<br />
Enjoy in moderation.<br />
<br />
Carina</div>
Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-68293585536717106342012-08-11T18:28:00.000-07:002012-08-11T18:28:36.857-07:00Proof Positve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While my husband contends that I sometimes drive like a bat out of H E double hockey sticks, may I offer proof to the contrary. After all, how fast can you be going if you get passed by a mere kitchen appliance like a toaster<br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wsCiMBdqOw4/UCb41FvswJI/AAAAAAAACdw/ej6n5nzYOQU/s1600/DSCN0845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wsCiMBdqOw4/UCb41FvswJI/AAAAAAAACdw/ej6n5nzYOQU/s320/DSCN0845.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well maybe not....<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6JJ0Ty9MZrQ/UCb4txEs9VI/AAAAAAAACdo/51RTR3pbKhM/s1600/DSCN0844.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6JJ0Ty9MZrQ/UCb4txEs9VI/AAAAAAAACdo/51RTR3pbKhM/s320/DSCN0844.JPG" width="309" /></a> <br />
<br />
This Honda element was actually parked next to me in the parking lot and I thought the bumper sticker was pretty darn cute. As for my driving, my last speeding ticket was 25 years ago..... really it was.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-71306502017721201072012-07-31T18:00:00.000-07:002012-07-31T18:00:01.008-07:00Ultimate Air Dogs<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My primary reason for heading up and over the mountains to Asheville for Bele Chere is the chance to take in a diverse array of musical groups for cheap. It costs me nothing more than the car trip, as admission is free. There were 4 stages, each with 4 musical groups playing between noon and 10pm.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl5Omw4Xnpk/UBh_UeF59zI/AAAAAAAACaw/SDxNVZ_Kw3I/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zl5Omw4Xnpk/UBh_UeF59zI/AAAAAAAACaw/SDxNVZ_Kw3I/s1600/1.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Along with the music there are hordes of people (an artifact of free admission), food vendors, arts and crafts for sale, an interactive performance area and kid and family friendly events. The pictures I'm posting here along with this video link are from the family friendly portion of Bele Chere.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.ultimateairdogs.com/youtube.html">http://www.ultimateairdogs.com/youtube.html</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PKRbgDQcNJk/UBh_Y1KI2VI/AAAAAAAACa4/cnkHS4120Po/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PKRbgDQcNJk/UBh_Y1KI2VI/AAAAAAAACa4/cnkHS4120Po/s1600/2.JPG" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
Ultimate Air Dogs is the brain child of former Detroit Tigers pitcher Milt Wilcox. Started back in 2005 in conjunction with his son Brian, their show offers a variety of water events including dock jumping and lure coursing. Getting involved as a competitor with his lab Sparky after seeing the great Outdoor Games on ESPN in 1984, Milt so enjoyed the events that he went on to founded Ultimate Air Dogs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7jYXD_JlIw/UBh_eC8jKfI/AAAAAAAACbA/pH2iIrPWdaQ/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7jYXD_JlIw/UBh_eC8jKfI/AAAAAAAACbA/pH2iIrPWdaQ/s1600/3.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Any dog can compete, regardless of size or pedigree. Most of the competitors Saturday were dogs associated with the water, Newfoundlands, various Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and at least one Curly coated Retriever.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6XSfDJuHTyw/UBh_iLmy3KI/AAAAAAAACbI/wVkQphO-7KA/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6XSfDJuHTyw/UBh_iLmy3KI/AAAAAAAACbI/wVkQphO-7KA/s1600/4.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Once upon a time, about 20 years ago, I owned an Airedale Terrier that would have been a natural at these events,but my current pack is rather reluctant around the water.<br />
<br />
<br />
Carina<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wnSdzKJN1hs/UBcm_v1uYMI/AAAAAAAACZ0/xCBdMirWKDY/s1600/DSCN0766.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-6771973037009060752012-07-29T12:32:00.002-07:002012-07-29T12:33:02.432-07:00Delta Rae @ Bele Chere<div style="text-align: center;">
They were playing the only cover I would hear as I approached the Biltmore Stage at the Bele Chere Festival in Asheville Saturday. It was vintage Fleetwood Mac, The Chain, off the Rumours album. The strong vocal interplay by the voices of Brittany Holljes and Elizabeth Hopkins took the lead and reeled me in. I would eagerly watch their entire set and not wander off to see anyone else on any other stage.
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPPrS_gyhtk/UBWPfNWLzxI/AAAAAAAACZQ/VcQkGBow344/s1600/BC+Girl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPPrS_gyhtk/UBWPfNWLzxI/AAAAAAAACZQ/VcQkGBow344/s1600/BC+Girl.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Delta Rae has 4, count them four lead singers, three of which are siblings. Besides Brittany, her brothers Ian and Eric play instruments and have great pipes too. The brothers are the primary song writers and they have crafted some sweet and some powerful tunes. Rounding out this sextet are Grant Emerson on the electric and upright bass and Mike McKee on drums and other interesting percussion like chains and trash can lids.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oGRktZayrkI/UBWPgBqd8HI/AAAAAAAACZY/Wsu3-FBsvFE/s1600/Screamer2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oGRktZayrkI/UBWPgBqd8HI/AAAAAAAACZY/Wsu3-FBsvFE/s1600/Screamer2.JPG" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This link will take you to Delta Rae's first professionally produced video. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bimam2j2gEg">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bimam2j2gEg</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This band is not easy to peg, as I found while cruising the web and gathering a little background for this blog post. Various different sources called them Alt-Pop Americana, a Folk-Rock sextet, Americana pop or as decreed by their publicist Mumford and Sons meets Fleetwood Mac. Whatever category you put them in , the band weaves together multiple influences into a dynamic stage show that has been honed by significant quantities of travel and practice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D9QXfHrMKRU/UBWHSFrYZRI/AAAAAAAACYg/nTEGZhdU4Pc/s1600/DSCN0806.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D9QXfHrMKRU/UBWHSFrYZRI/AAAAAAAACYg/nTEGZhdU4Pc/s320/DSCN0806.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delta Rae may be poised to take the next step toward larger audience recognition. From their self titled CD funded by Kickstarter, the band has recently signed with Sire records, a subsidiary of Warner Music. Their CD Carry the Fire was released June 19th and a week later they made their national television debut on the Jay Leno Show.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpkiTOmUY7A/UBWHXdn937I/AAAAAAAACYo/rDZol3HcGQk/s1600/DSCN0820.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpkiTOmUY7A/UBWHXdn937I/AAAAAAAACYo/rDZol3HcGQk/s320/DSCN0820.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Signing posters and CDs after the performance.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Currently on tour, if Delta Rae plays near you, make a point to get yourself in the audience. You will not be disappointed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8f_fOkh5KM/UBWHenx2ZII/AAAAAAAACYw/mnKkFBCLeRc/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8f_fOkh5KM/UBWHenx2ZII/AAAAAAAACYw/mnKkFBCLeRc/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-34253031901530489722012-07-01T10:00:00.000-07:002012-07-01T10:01:39.893-07:00Tattoo a banana - not quite a review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1948388651"></span><span id="goog_1948388652"></span></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJ-Q-DaEsQA/T-9FLp4SHVI/AAAAAAAACWM/bYtj8GGwx5A/s1600/DSCN0982.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1VdUxf_C26Q/T-9ONxR88kI/AAAAAAAACXU/0RPIeigPpCA/s1600/DSCN0992.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1VdUxf_C26Q/T-9ONxR88kI/AAAAAAAACXU/0RPIeigPpCA/s320/DSCN0992.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A recent trip to the bookstore once again demonstrates that my credentials as a grownup could be up for review. My eyes spotted the book entitled Tattoo a Banana by Phil Hansen. That would be Phil Hansen the X-ray tech and artist, not Phil Hansen the former football defensive end for the Buffalo Bills. Of course I had to purchase the book.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.philinthecircle.com/">www.philinthecircle.com</a><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUOyG6LOyrQ/T_CBezMifaI/AAAAAAAACX0/d43jOcwo1Yk/s1600/Davey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUOyG6LOyrQ/T_CBezMifaI/AAAAAAAACX0/d43jOcwo1Yk/s1600/Davey.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">Apparently, Phil has found ways to augment his lifestyle on credentials as suspect or even more so than my own. He has an intriguing website and this is first book.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I-gW2gqKzpI/T_CBhlXjmLI/AAAAAAAACX8/StAx28SrPSE/s1600/Seahorse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I-gW2gqKzpI/T_CBhlXjmLI/AAAAAAAACX8/StAx28SrPSE/s1600/Seahorse.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">The first project in the book does indeed instruct the reader in all the techniques required to tattoo a banana. The supply list includes a a banana, a pushpin or needle and a template. With practice you could either design your own template rather than using one photocopied from the book or freehand the task.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To watch the process, see time lapse of the bananas going to black and see Phil plug his book go to this video link</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXE1Y3m4j7o">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXE1Y3m4j7o</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp5UujM_s5Y/T_CBkHma0_I/AAAAAAAACYE/mZp_XFeIN1I/s1600/Hosses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp5UujM_s5Y/T_CBkHma0_I/AAAAAAAACYE/mZp_XFeIN1I/s1600/Hosses.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Can't wait to try the other ways to turn anything and everything into Art.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carina</div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2517334103428000264.post-18762492363503961332012-06-30T11:44:00.000-07:002012-06-30T11:44:17.219-07:00The Daylily Farm<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qfzoPoaT3xU/T-9FYGqyIbI/AAAAAAAACWg/aH8OdDBLu6s/s1600/DSCN0984.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qfzoPoaT3xU/T-9FYGqyIbI/AAAAAAAACWg/aH8OdDBLu6s/s320/DSCN0984.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
He was mowing lawn when I pulled in the driveway. Intent on his task, it took him a couple of minutes to notice my arrival. Turning off the mower, he walked over and offered a soft-spoken and slightly shy greeting.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_Dtv0vgk2o/T-9FIUiBkwI/AAAAAAAACWE/Bb0QYhnG_94/s1600/DSCN0978.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A_Dtv0vgk2o/T-9FIUiBkwI/AAAAAAAACWE/Bb0QYhnG_94/s320/DSCN0978.JPG" width="320" /></a> <br />
<br />
A weathered wooden sign announces this floral oasis off a little side street in Wise, Virginia. Here Mike Marsingill tends an acre that features 200 varieties of daylilies soaking up all the available sunshine. Talking flowers broke the ice.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-da3vP4Mt4iM/T-9FFhtUcZI/AAAAAAAACV8/51e0RS_Qmpo/s1600/DSCN0974.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-da3vP4Mt4iM/T-9FFhtUcZI/AAAAAAAACV8/51e0RS_Qmpo/s320/DSCN0974.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Recently featured in article in the Kingsport Times, I included the farm on a Saturday itinerary that already had me in the mountain community. My plan is to scrutinize the photographs that were taken and select one or two, okay maybe three favorite flowers. On my next trip up to Wise, I'll ask Mike to dig out and sell me those flowers that my garden just can not do without.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lrfqwFGvZjU/T-9FObaF2QI/AAAAAAAACWU/L6fT1xKGKRA/s1600/DSCN0983.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lrfqwFGvZjU/T-9FObaF2QI/AAAAAAAACWU/L6fT1xKGKRA/s320/DSCN0983.JPG" width="320" /></a> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Mike would have dug flowers that day, but my decision was to wait. I have the farm's address and phone number. Transplanting at the height of bloom is likely less than ideal and asking an older gent to dig in hot weather is assuredly less than optimal.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jI9_LJtaooY/T-9Fgjww-ZI/AAAAAAAACWs/JQpgu5GbhL8/s1600/DSCN0985.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jI9_LJtaooY/T-9Fgjww-ZI/AAAAAAAACWs/JQpgu5GbhL8/s320/DSCN0985.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
Besides, it is an excuse for another pleasant drive up into the mountains.<br />
<br />
<br />
Carina</div>Carinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03418755716801484445noreply@blogger.com1