Abby's Crocuses

What a nice surprise when these little flowers came up a few weeks ago.  I half forgot about them and half expected them never to materialize (sorry Abs, no offense).  Too bad she isn't home to enjoy our labor but I think of her every day when I go by them, clever girl.  The hyacinth has started to grow but no big results yet.  If I remember correctly, they should bloom a little later.

Ice Fishing

Here is a glimpse into the exciting world of ice fishing.  I'm told that sometimes the flag goes up.

Tiny Texas House

I've decided to liven up the blog for myself and my two readers (thanks Abby and Todd)  by posting interesting things NOT about myself.  But I suppose because they are my interests, they do say quite a bit about me.

I can't stop thinking about these little houses built by Brad Kittel of Discovery Architectural Antiques in Gonzales, Texas.  I  can't decide which one I like best, they are a perfect combination of so many of my loves...miniatures, reclamation and things on stilts.  I liked to source ideas and materials at a store here called Vermont Salvage but the location closed.  I'll have to take a trip to the original store in White River Junction, Vermont before the weather gets worse.  I wonder where all the architectural salvage from the area goes now.

Yard Sale, Part VI

Today I had my sixth yard sale of the year.  The first three were in Tempe and the last three took place over the last three weekends here in NH.  Between sorting out and packing everything for the move and the calamity in our basement it's been pretty ugly.  I must have been in denial because after unloading all this junk it seems like we have more stuff than ever. Last weekend we rewarded ourselves with breakfast at Parker's Maple Sugar Barn.  As much as I love stuff, I've decided that food is really an ideal thing to spend money on, loads of enjoyment and you're not left with anything to sell at some yard sale five years from now.  This week we were rewarded with the rediscovery of Great-aunt Rita's ceramic jack-o-lantern just in time for Halloween.  Apparently crafting runs in the family.

Ouch

I can't believe I've been absent from this blog since May.  So many things have changed.  I've given up red rock, cacti and sun dresses for granite, fall foliage and boots.   Life in New Hampshire sure isn't life in Arizona.  To help smooth out the transition,  Abigael and I drove my poor car through New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts over four days in mid September.  It was good preparation for our future travels as little old spinster sisters and well worth the hassle and the gas because I finally got to satisfy my long-smoldering desire to visit Graceland.  Phenomenal.

Yesterday my friend Ed Noel taught me how to use his wood lathe.  Today my back hurts.  He gave me a little block of laminated oak and a lot of instruction and with it I made this cup.

Hummingbabies

The eggs hatched a few weeks ago and we've been keeping an eye on the little ones.  At first it was difficult to get a good look at them but now they are almost too big for their nest.  To give you an idea of their size, the inside circumference of the nest is about the size of a silver dollar.  We hardly see the parents anymore and soon the babies will fly away too.   These photos show their progression from hatchlings to today.

This is the humming bird that made it's nest on a pipe outside the house. I wish I could see the eggs but I don't want to get too close when she is away.

Latest Work

I just showed this piece at the Foundry Road show at First Studio in Downtown Phoenix last night. It's cast bronze and copper.  The antlers and ear are wax. The lighting is bad.

Some Art

possible career option?

Now I would like to share a little film that has inspired me through out my life.  It may, in fact, be the root of my artistic pursuits (and my smock collection).  I wish the music could follow me when I am making things.  I think it would really aid the process.

Happy Birthday Abby!

Here is a special birthday video I selected just for you.  You can show it to all your friends the next time they make fun of you for being american.  We'll see who has the last laugh! 

Highlights

3 border patrol check points, snow in the mountains and cuddling with Grant.  If only we had video of getting pulled over by Reno 911. 

Of course the three of us would leave 85 degree Tempe and drive 6 hours to lay on the beach in San Diego during a cold snap. At least the car ride had some good music pumping thanks to Dr. Rutherford. And we had a lovely seaside view from the pub.

The dogs official name is Anejo.  He has put on a little weight but still sleeps like a little fawn and shadows Todd within 2 feet at all times. He is loving it.