tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24776455040639714362024-03-05T09:36:02.564-08:00AppreciateBeautyEverydaycolleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-69919331179199514132019-02-07T13:57:00.000-08:002019-02-07T13:57:24.453-08:00Some Lovely Wearable Art!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTYTa2yVIAIgEZAwj28rqoEJAXYSOY8gpduq7ThbSPa68n-uzsmNjnUOsSF9Dyj5Hny1_mH5QoDjYU1Q6O7h67M2dkECsuRIfPW2tu8iMWeV7pVbw5lmyMmA7taKZcs7IDBtnb1I3mzD_/s1600/Felted+wool+orchid-agatha+bee-Etsy-02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="570" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuTYTa2yVIAIgEZAwj28rqoEJAXYSOY8gpduq7ThbSPa68n-uzsmNjnUOsSF9Dyj5Hny1_mH5QoDjYU1Q6O7h67M2dkECsuRIfPW2tu8iMWeV7pVbw5lmyMmA7taKZcs7IDBtnb1I3mzD_/s320/Felted+wool+orchid-agatha+bee-Etsy-02.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here is a gorgeous orchid I bought from AgatheBee on Etsy. I LOVE her work.<br />
DISCLAIMER -I do not know Agatha personally and I do not benefit in any way from sharing my delight in her work!<br />
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I also have a beautiful poppy from AgathaBee shown below and from her shop a close-up of how she is making them now.<br />
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I also have this lovely rose!<br />
Why am I sharing these? I truly believe that wearable art is a delightful form of self expression. When I wear one of these pieces I am showing the world that I appreciate beauty and that I value hand crafted wearable art.<br />
I am delighted with how well made these brooches are. They arrived in a reasonable amount of time from romantic Bucharest! I have had very happy experiences supporting hand crafted adornments from shops on Etsy. Here is a link to Agatha Bee's shop!https://www.etsy.com/shop/AgathaBee?ref=shop_sugg<br />
A feast for your eyes. Again-DISCLAIMER- I do not benefit in any way by sharing my appreciation of these brooches! I hope you enjoy appreciating the beauty she creates from felted merino wool!<br />
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<br />colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-89960658110293668042017-04-26T14:02:00.000-07:002017-04-26T14:02:29.702-07:00Torrents of Spring Followed by Sunshine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This time of the year I always get into Spring Overwhelm. The weather seems to be in a similar state. The view from my kitchen window shows the turbulence</div>
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What a difference a day - and a New Moon- makes! Today is sunny and calm and the flowers are recovering from the stormy weather. The stream is now gently flowing...<br />
I am beginning to feel the same way. After a tumultuous April , I am calming down into a more balanced routine. I have missed posting on this blog. I just had too many things to attend to in last month.<br />
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I love this viburnum "snowball bush". This year it is so heavy with blooms! It has been a very fast and beautiful spring.<br />
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These oenothera speciosa are my favorite spring flowers. I first saw them growing wild on the levee in New Orleans as a child. We called them "pink primroses". I now know that they are not botanically primroses, but the true primulas have a hard time growing in subtropical New Orleans!<br />
I hope all of you are having a beautiful spring and that it is really easy for you to Appreciate Beauty Everyday!<br />
I LOVE to read and reply to your comments! Are you having a beautiful spring? Do you experience Spring Overwhelm? Do you have special favorites among the spring flowers?<br />
Thank you for stopping by! I would love for you to post links to your blog and Pinterest Boards. You can see mine at <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a><br />
<br />colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-41083164108926056282017-03-23T12:20:00.000-07:002017-03-23T12:20:34.263-07:00Ballet for Beauty, Grace and Alignment.I have always loved ballet. I took lessons from the age of 4-14. At 15 I was told that I should find another performance art, because whilst I had magnetic stage presence I was becoming too tall and I was developing a very obvious hour glass figure unsuitable for the standards at the time. I was heart broken.<br />
However, I continued to be an avid balletomane and I enjoyed season's tickets to the ballet for several decades. I have been fortunate to see so many fabulous dancers many times. As a youngster I saw Margot Fonteyn - to me the Queen of Beauty and Grace even to this day. I still love watching film clips of her dancing.<br />
I also continued to collect many books about ballet and, of course, I had (still have😉 ) many ballet themed paper dolls as well as about a dozen multi-jointed ballerina dolls (some with their original costumes and shoes!).<br />
It was with great joy that I discovered Tiekka Tellier and her Everyday Ballet study programs and blog. After all these years (decades), I am having fun dancing again. True, I sometimes do what for me are some high impact practices on my mini-trampoline! Recently Tiekka's blog was about Happy Healthy Knees. I thought I would share this because I have a sister, a cousin and some friends who are experiencing knee pain. I have occasional pain myself if I am not aware of my alignment. I found this blog very helpful. Also I am practicing my pliés and relevé's regularly.<br />
I hope you will check out Tiekka's blog and perhaps-(if you love ballet) take a lesson or two or become an Everyday Ballet member. Here is the link to the blog<br />
<a href="http://www.everydayballet.co/barre-essentials-healthy-happy-knees/" target="_blank">http://www.everydayballet.co/barre-essentials-healthy-happy-knees/</a><br />
and here is a link to her Youtube channel<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZpxhej9uvM" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZpxhej9uvM</a><br />
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I am not in any way affiliated with Tiekka Tellier or Everyday Ballet. I am spreading the good news because ever since I saw her first videos I have been enjoying ballet again and developing my "Poise-Posture-Power"as well as experiencing more Beauty, Grace and Alignment. Everyday Ballet is a major component now for me to Appreciate Beauty Everydaycolleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-58209764938211542782017-03-08T14:02:00.001-08:002017-03-08T14:02:41.389-08:00PLOG: Picture Blog - First signs of Spring! Part 2<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeKBNQdEjIgKyHgzH8JQPFxqf5UM_g5QLiYCtMBdYJGYoiul6zR5Snu5Q1j1EHYyx2yQUQA0jn1lXrYAS4aHsISwPNsQ3zC0qmkmJXsKHTUHiikvwYrJUuFl0BKx-YNo_7BfDhBMLz3vtA/s1600/cherry%2526forsythia05+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeKBNQdEjIgKyHgzH8JQPFxqf5UM_g5QLiYCtMBdYJGYoiul6zR5Snu5Q1j1EHYyx2yQUQA0jn1lXrYAS4aHsISwPNsQ3zC0qmkmJXsKHTUHiikvwYrJUuFl0BKx-YNo_7BfDhBMLz3vtA/s320/cherry%2526forsythia05+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink Wild Cherry and Forsythia</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daffodils are everywhere!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trees are not awake yet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daffodils from England brought by the people who built the stone house (ruin in the background) in the 1710's - 300 years ago!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely early white double spirea</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The early promise of blueberries this summer! Bee boxes in the background.The bees have been out and about every sunny day!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLnMhIQV4lUOeypo6GoQwqoFTGY4uIDCV4Tp-PVD38Zl6eO8mvcsOxqIbfQrx7j4jFHNP-CPip7UwIKnDL3_OszdoZtyINUPzRDzGNvvwooatnCPz6dLVR1in6zpgIqVrfs4Sud6ndZX1/s1600/DSCN7346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLnMhIQV4lUOeypo6GoQwqoFTGY4uIDCV4Tp-PVD38Zl6eO8mvcsOxqIbfQrx7j4jFHNP-CPip7UwIKnDL3_OszdoZtyINUPzRDzGNvvwooatnCPz6dLVR1in6zpgIqVrfs4Sud6ndZX1/s320/DSCN7346.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The promise of hazelnuts-at least for the squirrels and chipmunks!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span id="goog_195050594"></span><span id="goog_195050595"></span>I really am enjoying photographing the unfolding of Spring this year. Thank you for stopping to look at my little world. Are there signs of Spring where you are? Please leave a comment. I LOVE your comments and I welcome links to your blogs and Pinterest boards!colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-65612573264622209672017-03-01T05:38:00.000-08:002017-03-01T05:38:00.651-08:00PLOG: Picture Blog - First signs of Spring!I am overwhelmed with many things right now- mostly good😌. I do want to share what is going on in my little world outdoors. "A Picture Is Worth 1,000 Words!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-dt9u1rQR0FS8H6yK3j7lkG6EAJydOM-NWase922sxMZN5CVbO6qTtCeCMOFi_mc-96UMFAPUGlKDxgOlPJyMjeL-zkQ7xIDgqxvK044bNMD9_OdiEItHbwG0bEyEjPfG1XDkoQ94I2KG/s1600/DSCN7330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-dt9u1rQR0FS8H6yK3j7lkG6EAJydOM-NWase922sxMZN5CVbO6qTtCeCMOFi_mc-96UMFAPUGlKDxgOlPJyMjeL-zkQ7xIDgqxvK044bNMD9_OdiEItHbwG0bEyEjPfG1XDkoQ94I2KG/s320/DSCN7330.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hellebores!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OnqqttTV0iMjf6B8pdTptvpbDE7NHfqL0Zi1zEJtYzVZt4M6ErPN8BZOfZ_mVt-o7KVijw5eGJfqv9xnmaVNpVqtViBNah5JKetBSOSvqbBZILlV3wIXCXfjM6HWEGcWpwyaPybFpf9P/s1600/DSCN7331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OnqqttTV0iMjf6B8pdTptvpbDE7NHfqL0Zi1zEJtYzVZt4M6ErPN8BZOfZ_mVt-o7KVijw5eGJfqv9xnmaVNpVqtViBNah5JKetBSOSvqbBZILlV3wIXCXfjM6HWEGcWpwyaPybFpf9P/s320/DSCN7331.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pink Perfection Camellia</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFtavxQQJuIFnlLYgCM0qhMoY5dUnxX0Xuy1Cn26Zm3O193j7ZXdVhRXvlj879QbjN-9L1CU9RyLbn3HrjbFtVSmyUThno_sdUgXTTYqfrJ5JiHy69sEBWnXySRO8n3Lqi-ubzzwwRCA5/s1600/DSCN7332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnFtavxQQJuIFnlLYgCM0qhMoY5dUnxX0Xuy1Cn26Zm3O193j7ZXdVhRXvlj879QbjN-9L1CU9RyLbn3HrjbFtVSmyUThno_sdUgXTTYqfrJ5JiHy69sEBWnXySRO8n3Lqi-ubzzwwRCA5/s320/DSCN7332.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Dawn Camellia</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVrREcgum0wfaGb_ZJkifRpyhmf7_ho_VOWQdd3kWsrCUf1WExU4plotKInxzM9Q7axlMpuaR0uRjgktfcSzgHDd71AnJP__btT_tvEXWQ8LppLHcPfMvHRiYj6TX3u3cG1t-3rG6Q9Kq/s1600/DSCN7334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVrREcgum0wfaGb_ZJkifRpyhmf7_ho_VOWQdd3kWsrCUf1WExU4plotKInxzM9Q7axlMpuaR0uRjgktfcSzgHDd71AnJP__btT_tvEXWQ8LppLHcPfMvHRiYj6TX3u3cG1t-3rG6Q9Kq/s320/DSCN7334.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue flowers-unknown</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtKYfP5gYb5t2jQTeMR0MFAtfHFmjb_Af2WUYJNju0JRuvJTPXvNyjo_F2El2YCsJGsgjz-bNzR6__yqWrZXg28xsuWLJHj_FbjXsAoaQJliRUCgCReQsCeKUPcJxQPsub41EUgsW8H8_/s1600/DSCN7335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHtKYfP5gYb5t2jQTeMR0MFAtfHFmjb_Af2WUYJNju0JRuvJTPXvNyjo_F2El2YCsJGsgjz-bNzR6__yqWrZXg28xsuWLJHj_FbjXsAoaQJliRUCgCReQsCeKUPcJxQPsub41EUgsW8H8_/s320/DSCN7335.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild Pear Tree</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4u-h9HHf1jHICldgDPahP2E-bzrUrZqnazgMOTyuGtwpxYyglpVgIQLB5wxjq1Cz4KNCwvMUvmu78g6XC8qjkiFhXVxjvAOrU2rpWfwTPx7TNcMIv7nIE2-l5TGBN_-PD-mJWMIBYyeHo/s1600/DSCN7340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4u-h9HHf1jHICldgDPahP2E-bzrUrZqnazgMOTyuGtwpxYyglpVgIQLB5wxjq1Cz4KNCwvMUvmu78g6XC8qjkiFhXVxjvAOrU2rpWfwTPx7TNcMIv7nIE2-l5TGBN_-PD-mJWMIBYyeHo/s320/DSCN7340.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild Pear Blossoms</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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More next week! I LOVE your Comments. Is it Spring yet where you are? Any signs of Spring? Please share -and Appreciate Beauty Every Day! Thank you for stopping by.colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-82377559611883939062017-02-06T12:23:00.000-08:002017-02-06T12:23:50.942-08:00My First Completed Project 2017!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB96XQmP26w1GodOufZ1QA06zm82EVjVGHCiZOYHkYjqk6D0fqvhfGpjMZotq3ylfGOV_UEpSDIdd_ai1JZb7scqU8mByt3v2x1dQy7lQQaEU-9waV0nBLZbDZsmWvgw-7lDzNFUANypT9/s1600/Snapshot+2+%25282-6-2017+1-42+PM%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB96XQmP26w1GodOufZ1QA06zm82EVjVGHCiZOYHkYjqk6D0fqvhfGpjMZotq3ylfGOV_UEpSDIdd_ai1JZb7scqU8mByt3v2x1dQy7lQQaEU-9waV0nBLZbDZsmWvgw-7lDzNFUANypT9/s320/Snapshot+2+%25282-6-2017+1-42+PM%2529.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Ever since I saw this sweater on Ravelry I have been wanting to make it. I finally got going on it! I am very happy with the fit and the pattern was easier than I anticipated.<br />
I did have trouble figuring out the sleeves...Not the fault of the designer!😉<br />
I photographed the steps once I figured them out. I am making another sweater from this pattern now. <br />
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Here is my video of the sweater <a href="https://youtu.be/0fYSpzS1sLo" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/0fYSpzS1sLo</a><br />
And here is the link to the pattern! I added the roses and the peplum. <br />
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chevron-stripes-3-season-sweater" target="_blank">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chevron-stripes-3-season-sweater</a><br />
Have you started or finished any projects yet this year? Please share links to your blog / Facebook/ and or Pinterest page! I love your comments. I really do appreciate it that you stopped by to read my blog /view my video. colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-63797836921512226392017-01-25T10:24:00.003-08:002017-01-25T10:47:23.163-08:00When a "win" can look like a "loss"This week I was encouraged by my accountabilty partner and the Passion and Purpose Mastermind I am in to post a video about an idea I have for a new career. It was quite an adventure and I got some more practice shooting a brief video.<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxL5slv1MTY" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxL5slv1MTY</a><br />
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So far I have not had the response I hoped for. I am wondering if I need to rethink what I want to do next. It really pains me to see so many women not fully enjoying their lives, feeling tired, and/or overwhelmed. I would love to use all my education and training to inspire open minded women to become fully embodied as the unique gifts they are to the world.<br />
Maybe I need to take a different approach? Several of my friends have pointed out that I do not spend much time with people who are low on energy😕. Also some have pointed out that I am much more enthusiastic about inspiring people to fulfill their dreams😄. I do like to see people light up!<br />
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As much as I enjoy a retired life in the country, I would like to have another career. This time for the pleasure of inspiring people to live their best lives possible.<br />
I am open to suggestions. I do know that I have a gift for helping people to feel seen and heard. I am finally acknowledging and accepting my intuitive gifts (developed at a very early age as a necessity). I seem to be able to see other people's gifts and talents and how they can use them. I will be checking in here on this subject from time to time.<br />
So, the loss is my disappointment at the response to my video- but the win is that perhaps I am slowly gaining clarity!<br />
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Meanwhile, progress is being made on the new greenhouse! Also, I am almost ready to post a crochet update. See you maybe next week- I am having a root canal done😨...<br />
Thank you for stopping by! Please leave comments, suggestions, constructive criticism - also links to your Blog, Facebook group, and Pinterest boards. I love your comments and I will reply asap.colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-16495729558466158682017-01-18T06:58:00.000-08:002017-01-18T06:58:06.989-08:00Winter ContrastHappy New Year! I am getting off to a slow start-not such a bad thing, actually.<br />
So far, it is a time of what Abraham-Hicks calls "Contrast"for me. Yes, I am coming out of the closet - I read and listen to Abraham -Hicks and I even belong to a couple of Abraham- Hicks Facebook Groups.<br />
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My view of Contrast (just as I understand it!) is that things in my life are not so much what I wish for.<br />
My ruined greenhouse, the necessity for a root canal next month on a tooth that was apparently injured during my adventures in orthodontistry - no one's fault and I am delighted to have my childhood smile back!😄 An ice and snow storm at the beginning of the year set me back considerably ... I do not thrive in cold weather.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice masquerading as snow</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only birds are venturing out</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only tracks anywhere on the property for days!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYiw-ChkQxViGTRzIvaq9Ksu5UPz5sOFWHOjFSxcoBrOAfDMFcJ3FtO7TuAG_xxQxVtKXKfhyphenhyphenurdqMVJWU-pvKhgWuAY-m9_XYky0fbeWRO52yhua_AYHT0VPkNSbRa_YarslQO_uqGaJ/s1600/DSCN7320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYiw-ChkQxViGTRzIvaq9Ksu5UPz5sOFWHOjFSxcoBrOAfDMFcJ3FtO7TuAG_xxQxVtKXKfhyphenhyphenurdqMVJWU-pvKhgWuAY-m9_XYky0fbeWRO52yhua_AYHT0VPkNSbRa_YarslQO_uqGaJ/s320/DSCN7320.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In my room all is well -one of my Calla lilies!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-wttdBSdVg-hZ2JJd41cCLBiJZvNzJ6bpnCeKycBK7uYdclAIRN7O2LfwKbQOcxKdzFDnqWfLCxdBLR8VHw1mDWxluF9ZADunqxhXJSSmVfOpZEAeFneCiuT3CEhR-pKgXd4DgMqskcI/s1600/DSCN7321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-wttdBSdVg-hZ2JJd41cCLBiJZvNzJ6bpnCeKycBK7uYdclAIRN7O2LfwKbQOcxKdzFDnqWfLCxdBLR8VHw1mDWxluF9ZADunqxhXJSSmVfOpZEAeFneCiuT3CEhR-pKgXd4DgMqskcI/s320/DSCN7321.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cyclamen continues to bloom-over a year! and</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> these lovely pink begonias!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUccmhKoiGTD3TiPnz7moER8PkpSVd_hLyrTG4gfHtBJY_PTw8Cr0acEYH6cpFu0mhpKLMcLGbgzkG7h65Kvt9TtQznGE9AdLES8mXJOBkwzE6K9LglPuaQlqP4GhUjBEIbqbRAXk9HWZz/s1600/DSCN7322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUccmhKoiGTD3TiPnz7moER8PkpSVd_hLyrTG4gfHtBJY_PTw8Cr0acEYH6cpFu0mhpKLMcLGbgzkG7h65Kvt9TtQznGE9AdLES8mXJOBkwzE6K9LglPuaQlqP4GhUjBEIbqbRAXk9HWZz/s320/DSCN7322.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The garden room is crammed with plants from the greenhouse</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of greenhouse ruin and most of the plants safely stowed.</td></tr>
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All in all life so far this year is giving me time to reflect. I am happy that I can appreciate beauty everyday - even when I am iced in!<br />
Please leave a comment and tell me how your year is going so far. Did you make resolutions? Is 2017 looking like a good year for you? I hope so! I LOVE your comments and also links to your own Blogs, Youtube channels , and Pinterest boards!colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-74994333104325901622016-12-02T09:51:00.000-08:002016-12-02T09:51:53.384-08:00Thank you, Barbara Fisher!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Imagine my surprise when my wonderful friend Barbara Fisher-<a href="http://marchhousebookscom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://marchhousebookscom.blogspot.com/</a> tagged me for this award! A lovely challenge and a no brainer for this week's blog! Here are Barbara's 10 questions and my answers:<br />
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1) What is your earliest memory? As a baby I remember a large, beautiful silver basket with flowers and leaves and animals. It had a wonderful texture. I could feel the shapes of the roses, the little rabbits, etc. My mother usually had florist flowers in it- it was usually on a coffee table. I wish I had it! Or even a good photo!<br />
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2) Where is your favourite place in the world and why? There used to be ( it may be there still under another name) a wonderful little bookshop across the street from Wells Cathedral in Somerset England. I loved that shop and when the Bevans moved to Wales I had dreams of buying it and living there! Otherwise I love London, Verona and the Veneto area, - and New Orleans -where I grew up.<br />
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3)Do you have a favourite piece of clothing or footwear? YES!! <br />
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My beautiful blue skirt I bought many years ago in Paris. Here I am wearing it at Versailles soon after I bought it- and much more recently shooting a video in my room.<br />
AND- the gorgeous cream boots and red Mary Janes from Anello and Davide in London also bought many, many years ago. Sadly they are no longer comfortable to wear!<br />
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4) What inspired you to write a blog? The six word autobiography challenge set by Oprah years ago. My very first post!<br />
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5) Favourite snack : Plain chocolate Cadbury Fruit and Nut bar or plain chocolate Digestives.<br />
Otherwise just excellent quality plain chocolate!<br />
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6) Have you ever acted or sung on stage? Yes many times -singing as an adult. Ballet until I was 14.<br />
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7) Have you or anyone in your family traced your ancestry? Yes, my sister as well as cousins on both sides of the family - back to the 1600s. Must have been some shady characters - we came to America before the Revolutionary War and we have Viking genes. Certainly some marauding adventurers!<br />
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Have you ever experienced déjá vu? Frequently.<br />
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Do you sing in the shower or the car or both? I prefer baths and I do not drive a car- but I LOVE to sing!<br />
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Have you enjoyed participating in this tag? YES! Thank you again, Barbara!<br />
I am tagging<br />
Janet at <a href="http://yellowpinkandsparkly.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://yellowpinkandsparkly.blogspot.com/</a><br />
Beth at <a href="http://byhookbyhand.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://byhookbyhand.blogspot.com/</a><br />
Miché at <a href="http://www.spoonbenderscafe.com/" target="_blank">http://www.spoonbenderscafe.com/</a><br />
Leanne at <a href="http://www.crestingthehill.com.au/" target="_blank">http://www.crestingthehill.com.au/</a><br />
Laura at <a href="https://lauracarpi.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">https://lauracarpi.wordpress.com/</a> in Italian, but Google will translate!<br />
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If you decide to participate, here are the "rules":<br />
Thank the blogger for the award in your post. Answer the 10 questions set by me (see below).<br />
Nominate your blogging friends! Ask 10 of your own questions for them to answer on their blog.<br />
Display the award on your blog or in the post.<br />
I would love for you all to check out their blogs! And if you like, answer any -or all of the following questions in the comments or email me or message me on Facebook!<br />
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1) What fun activity do you do everyday (or most days!)?<br />
2) What was your favourite toy as a child/ Do you still have the toy? or one very like it?<br />
3)What is your favourite type of music?<br />
4) Are there books or movies you have read/watched many times? Which ones?<br />
5) Do you like to create things:sewing, knitting, crochet, jewellry, toys, origami- anything? Please share a photo or description<br />
6)Are you a morning songbird or a night owl?<br />
7)What is magical about your life?<br />
8)If you had 3 wishes what would they be?<br />
9)What do you love best about yourself?<br />
10)How would you make the world a better place?<br />
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This was fun, Barbara! I hope YOU answer my questions ;^)colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-52124392631855153452016-11-27T13:45:00.002-08:002016-11-27T13:45:52.914-08:00A Thanksgiving Self Care Story<br />
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Thanksgiving is a big deal in my household. Frequently we have house guests as well as dinner guests for the main event.<br />
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My sister and I grew up celebrating Thanksgiving mostly in the high-end restaurants our mother managed. After our Thanksgiving meal, we would be sent off to a movie. Occasionally we enjoyed a more traditional Thanksgiving with our stepmother's family. The best was when we visited our father's extended family. All the aunts, uncles, and cousins would come to our grandmother's house. These were rare occasions involving long distance travel. I cherish the memories! ( I spent years and considerable $ acquiring the china pattern we used at the children's table- I use it frequently and always on Thanksgiving). This china makes me smile!<br />
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When I was 15 I decided that I would shop for and prepare the Thanksgiving feast rather than go to a restaurant. Our stepmother had taught me many cooking skills. As I worked, our mother was so impressed that she took the day off and invited some friends to join us. One guest actually brought flowers! Another guest was the owner of a large record shop. He was so pleased with the dinner that he gave my sister and me generous gift certificates ( I still have some of those vinyl albums!).<br />
Almost every year since I have prepared and hosted the Thanksgiving celebration.<br />
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This year (here comes the self care part -at last!😉 ). I woke up Thursday feeling totally stressed. All of the stresses of this autumn took their toll- the loss of my greenhouse and the plant rescue operations, the temporary (I hope!!) loss of my housekeeper/garden help, some growing pains about yet another career change... To top it off one of my cats has started leaving puddles of bloody urine all over the house. Fortunately we have a wonderful veterinarian who makes house calls. My little cat is doing better. Still, when I woke up early Thursday, I did not feel well, and after feeding the cats I slipped on a puddle I had missed when cleaning up. It was the last straw. I sat down and decided there was no way I was going to cook a big turkey, make pies, etc. I went to my room - put on clean pajamas and went back to bed. I telephoned the guests and invited them for Saturday. Everyone was very obliging!<br />
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I spent the whole of Thanksgiving in bed napping, reading, and listening to music. It was lovely!<br />
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In years past I would have pushed through- with less than optimal results. By Thursday night I would have been very ill indeed. I have finally learned to take care of myself and not worry when I must occasionally disappoint people. As it was, no one was really disappointed. The turkey, the pies, etc. were delicious. We were all just as thankful as we would have been on Thursday!<br />
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Have you ever opted to take care of yourself and cancel an engagement? Have you ever enjoyed a holiday just resting?<br />
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I love your comments. Please leave a comment below , email me , or message me on Facebook! Thank you for reading my blog!colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-72158456139019682016-11-16T06:59:00.000-08:002016-11-16T06:59:25.891-08:00True Beauty - Embody and Energize Who You Are Inside <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of one of my windows in my room today</td></tr>
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I am discovering the change in the world I would really like to be. I want to inspire you and shine a light on how embodying your true beauty creates energy!<br />
I discovered at an early age that beauty is not about looking like a movie star, a doll , a beautifully drawn paper doll,etc. I began to look for the beauty in the ways people express themselves. Have you noticed that somehow animals and plants seem to express their unique beauty just by being? People seem to have more of a challenge...<br />
It can be a scary adventure to truly accept and love yourself. The first time I had to look in a mirror and find something beautiful about myself it took a long time. I chose my eyebrows! It has taken me years to be able to look at myself and like what I see.<br />
Do you cringe when you see yourself on video, or in the mirror, or hear yourself on audio? I still do - after years of practice in accepting myself. Just when I think I really accept myself, I see myself on a recorded coaching session or hear myself sing and I just want to hide! I am horrified by how much I talk, how loud I am when I get excited, how messy my hair becomes, how I frown when I concentrate... <br />
I am learning that loving and appreciating my body -just as I am- is the first step to feeling better /looking better. I keep getting "wake-up" calls as several of my friends have had major health issues that are clearly related to taking care of everybody/everything except themselves!<br />
Feeling good /looking good is an inside job. It is not about age-weight-size- these are just numbers! It is not about impossible photoshopped images in the media.<br />
Feeling good/ looking good is about letting your inner self/soul shine through your body! Embodying the Real-Authentic-You! Your unique R-A-Y of light,love, beauty!<br />
The first step is getting to know the R-A-Y. There are so many ways to do this! Danielle La Porte's book The Desire Map is a start. Julia Cameron's books The Artist's Way and The Vein Of Gold are excellent. This may be another whole blog... ;^)<br />
For this week, it might be fun for you to discover something awesome about yourself and embody it. Here's a suggestion: Use an "I am" statement. It has to be something you truly believe about yourself- or at the very least something you are WILLING to believe about yourself. As you say it - see how your body feels. Gently tap or massage where your body feels the statement- or move/dance to it.<br />
I made a short video last spring about my Embodied Affirmations . You can see it here:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDz36e7gEZA" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDz36e7gEZA</a><br />
<br />
My message to you this week in a nutshell:<br />
Practice accepting yourself as a beautiful being.<br />
Find something
about your body that you are willing to see as a part of your unique
beauty.<br />
Try some Embodied Affirmations that you are at least willing to
believe (even if you are not there yet!).<br />
You are an embodied beautiful soul- if only you will believe it and see it!<br />
You might enjoy my Pinterest boards <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a><br />
Thank you for stopping by! If any of this resonates for you, please leave a comment or a suggestion. I LOVE your comments and suggestions. colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-71076649217675247062016-11-03T09:40:00.000-07:002016-11-03T09:40:19.066-07:00Resilience, Rewards, Radiance, and Research<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZQ305nNiwZJFYmyEdC70WeDIN2E4NKOSshNm9iVYfYomiwreNJNevv0-x1TlVMdvGIxfoLhPWwbBuccu97zg8ShWzzLRh1PpH2Hasd1fbWKKBvmkIP9JzoO87F7EhKpY12Hkh03rNWRzO/s1600/DSCN6545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZQ305nNiwZJFYmyEdC70WeDIN2E4NKOSshNm9iVYfYomiwreNJNevv0-x1TlVMdvGIxfoLhPWwbBuccu97zg8ShWzzLRh1PpH2Hasd1fbWKKBvmkIP9JzoO87F7EhKpY12Hkh03rNWRzO/s320/DSCN6545.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most of my little world is still beautiful!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I love autumn! Usually I am energized by the cooler weather and the ever changing colors. In light of my greenhouse disaster I have been feeling somewhat overwhelmed and not quite exhausted, but certainly low on energy. Although I continue to eat well, enjoy my walks, exercise, and sleep well, I notice that I am not always feeling as "lit up" or as radiant as usual. The task of cleaning up all the debris- even with help- is difficult, somewhat dangerous ( so much twisted steel and broken glass- some of which is still poised to fall!). Just plain daunting.<br />
<br />
So I have been thinking about what I have done successfully in the past to get through overwhelm and low energy.. The first thing that pops up for me is "this too shall pass". I have a plan for getting through the cleanup and on to the fun part of planning the new greenhouse. I know I am resilient. I bounce back pretty quickly from difficult experiences. I have had plenty of practice!<br />
<br />
Still, I am dragging my feet. This week I am just doing a little bit at a time. The weather is co-operating so I can afford to take baby steps for awhile. Sadly, my gardener is unable to help me because she is taking care of a seriously ill family member. I miss her. She cheers me up as we do tasks I am unable- or unwilling- to do on my own. So I am carving out an hour or two a day when the sun is brightest. I am doing what I can.<br />
<br />
Then I reward myself! Yesterday it was with a Youtube video in Italian teaching me how to crochet a sweater . Two treats in one! I LOVE learning Italian and I LOVE making pretty clothes. Rewards are necessary! Making a list of rewards I want can be a reward...<br />
<br />
Rewards bring back my radiance! I light up when I am enjoying life, having fun, learning new things... Radiance for me means feeling glow-y inside. Happy just to be alive. Enjoying and appreciating the beauty around me. Posting these photographs! Enjoying and appreciating my own beauty. Dancing!<br />
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I want to discover how you deal with set-backs, disappointments, disasters...Here is the beginning of my research:<br />
When you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, daunted : what words do you use to describe your feelings ? What concerns or anxieties are coming up for you?<br />
When you feel lit up, radiant, full of energy, what words do you use to describe your feelings?<br />
When do you feel lit up, radiant, full of energy ?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEHAUbaeK36fgxy-aO26AXeaAJnbimFFK1i82DY1Tm-P1sbhBfSxSnj_qDi-i1_vGG2qmAme4kYVPvNTds-NeP27z0zo4SAXuqHOpjGyTzjQF2x0Zk-ISwNZFshl-o4lyBuhKwHRfjKWZ/s1600/DSCN6797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQEHAUbaeK36fgxy-aO26AXeaAJnbimFFK1i82DY1Tm-P1sbhBfSxSnj_qDi-i1_vGG2qmAme4kYVPvNTds-NeP27z0zo4SAXuqHOpjGyTzjQF2x0Zk-ISwNZFshl-o4lyBuhKwHRfjKWZ/s320/DSCN6797.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chestnut tree</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRW9Opw6oUj6VB9IX8yPsJoIFJgsRoiMlgxYautBiDNRC0U5MHUnSrkxIQOYMCXyzMrxEMKmSitIj-0jM_2VSoMIou4BtQ7EVdU_bqa_6JscHpfLtRQm60WmMn6kGnTI8vgs97zVmgCPcN/s1600/DSCN6549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRW9Opw6oUj6VB9IX8yPsJoIFJgsRoiMlgxYautBiDNRC0U5MHUnSrkxIQOYMCXyzMrxEMKmSitIj-0jM_2VSoMIou4BtQ7EVdU_bqa_6JscHpfLtRQm60WmMn6kGnTI8vgs97zVmgCPcN/s320/DSCN6549.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walk down the road</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2l0UB4sNhVe2gGSOOUreHTLYcvjhzsjUkrF9ZtwgNmodlI8c_Zii74nXjt6LXXMrCYceRRF3XlAgrzUF-ESMh8qCkjVmFonvn-kTpyS44QVMc4uGG9bDi2kCB7ooaxcIv8FCjLRkMsqX/s1600/DSCN6550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2l0UB4sNhVe2gGSOOUreHTLYcvjhzsjUkrF9ZtwgNmodlI8c_Zii74nXjt6LXXMrCYceRRF3XlAgrzUF-ESMh8qCkjVmFonvn-kTpyS44QVMc4uGG9bDi2kCB7ooaxcIv8FCjLRkMsqX/s320/DSCN6550.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Driveway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1q4poynIy_Mc7d2csmbxAJqEkPOxDTlOpaEuxWvNjMF4W1wXHxSpniWvw2Lmyq6xMTj6viwXzdREjADMo44cwhlET0smZbsIrve8Cth9Y6Azar00W8kUZWgkBSjzFBLGToBtGY11PpBkU/s1600/DSCN6553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1q4poynIy_Mc7d2csmbxAJqEkPOxDTlOpaEuxWvNjMF4W1wXHxSpniWvw2Lmyq6xMTj6viwXzdREjADMo44cwhlET0smZbsIrve8Cth9Y6Azar00W8kUZWgkBSjzFBLGToBtGY11PpBkU/s320/DSCN6553.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louisiana cypress trees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuYnsVrLxfag6okjNVGk2ltglnnpTC21BmR78hAAARZpAJ8Lhasv49K9PuSKF5MGZ07b8CCA03GFA_L7ycunKfKlT1jR2JXmKgQ6MHjqXWIB1tHuO9C_NUiFro7inC85CBcRQEfwGMIY9/s1600/DSCN6561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuYnsVrLxfag6okjNVGk2ltglnnpTC21BmR78hAAARZpAJ8Lhasv49K9PuSKF5MGZ07b8CCA03GFA_L7ycunKfKlT1jR2JXmKgQ6MHjqXWIB1tHuO9C_NUiFro7inC85CBcRQEfwGMIY9/s320/DSCN6561.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from my kitchen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thank you for reading my blog! I love comments. I would really appreciate reflections on my first research questions. It makes me happy to see others in their radiance and high energy. See you next week!<br />
<br />colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-41968108198466097642016-10-26T05:52:00.000-07:002016-10-26T05:52:19.854-07:00Accepting a Disaster<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltxPaPEFofKaUz2N_fSViYoIAi4u1Ysute5FiA8zADUYAXFnXspeSZjig2_b4mFsetzmR_WgHGuaSRb6KRkAvAn_jcR0kIqI95ORnR2Pdb87qPVFATazIHrwAeY8_8Csqn_4XvcESdTml/s1600/DSCN7274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltxPaPEFofKaUz2N_fSViYoIAi4u1Ysute5FiA8zADUYAXFnXspeSZjig2_b4mFsetzmR_WgHGuaSRb6KRkAvAn_jcR0kIqI95ORnR2Pdb87qPVFATazIHrwAeY8_8Csqn_4XvcESdTml/s320/DSCN7274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLwUcQJR6ro50injXrI1xadVIBzJlxGlYTadm2_YNEcTTFegYS3AepbuIxemJCXJ_zt8lXqLDqz3PmbfnkoGcYEDAfl_5EaFCFaaXw9i9193J6-V3tt91NgpWmhHG1lfqDeMscVZ48Q5g/s1600/DSCN7281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLwUcQJR6ro50injXrI1xadVIBzJlxGlYTadm2_YNEcTTFegYS3AepbuIxemJCXJ_zt8lXqLDqz3PmbfnkoGcYEDAfl_5EaFCFaaXw9i9193J6-V3tt91NgpWmhHG1lfqDeMscVZ48Q5g/s320/DSCN7281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
My beautiful greenhouse is a total loss. I have been growing fruit and flowers in it for 2 decades. Needless to say, I am very sad. Here are some photos to illustrate the magnitude of the loss:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OuFJ31xw8Ko6Mrs-8ifmM6keJxh_R5oGtBbgfzgBMe7o32wo2-pZ9lII7r7TL-E8vf1MykbOzU0nROYeaqPZI0NFpBqbwLKNbL_1T3nufp-t7fWlxZv1SeviDNIQFfcrYjUi-6I708Hu/s1600/Greenhouse01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OuFJ31xw8Ko6Mrs-8ifmM6keJxh_R5oGtBbgfzgBMe7o32wo2-pZ9lII7r7TL-E8vf1MykbOzU0nROYeaqPZI0NFpBqbwLKNbL_1T3nufp-t7fWlxZv1SeviDNIQFfcrYjUi-6I708Hu/s320/Greenhouse01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J_mDCUMIgdudwsUhBcwVXbR9vyKOzYh_toGi9mNoi6C5UNIn3kXKDbNiPWVBg7ZQMcadkomTxzqRmZD7nlDmN7zihildGAqhBH87tuSwoYdk2rgmNaxIZFfzB6BTJC8kcEz-A20kNxFh/s1600/Greenhouse02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3J_mDCUMIgdudwsUhBcwVXbR9vyKOzYh_toGi9mNoi6C5UNIn3kXKDbNiPWVBg7ZQMcadkomTxzqRmZD7nlDmN7zihildGAqhBH87tuSwoYdk2rgmNaxIZFfzB6BTJC8kcEz-A20kNxFh/s320/Greenhouse02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifaubQEWJtlvKQvkutqxTJfu6bfzbJYdl1my-KlzO1Jg-X3J_k4Pm4AKYUWBcUnVynysIU0sFWZHvL1OzdMOmTK3hpjSbTHUkFmq329rdwoylNT_8EjSptDdLmXE_VyUwFzBcr-UD-bfdV/s1600/Greenhouse03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifaubQEWJtlvKQvkutqxTJfu6bfzbJYdl1my-KlzO1Jg-X3J_k4Pm4AKYUWBcUnVynysIU0sFWZHvL1OzdMOmTK3hpjSbTHUkFmq329rdwoylNT_8EjSptDdLmXE_VyUwFzBcr-UD-bfdV/s320/Greenhouse03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-pAnoJXK5Fyx20BpnJghDnL5Oz4bZWkLI7VOQB7OwGaYBxLi-aiRidpz8DKoVq2oAC9kUlIagYkYu96yof_Xq2-55UGGFXwpuQx3noIi3Dnp7OJoshvb7NJCXvz2fxqvWuZ2EQCqTQMY/s1600/Greenhouse04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-pAnoJXK5Fyx20BpnJghDnL5Oz4bZWkLI7VOQB7OwGaYBxLi-aiRidpz8DKoVq2oAC9kUlIagYkYu96yof_Xq2-55UGGFXwpuQx3noIi3Dnp7OJoshvb7NJCXvz2fxqvWuZ2EQCqTQMY/s320/Greenhouse04.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcgjmHiv8D1uLtlfGllxRrII12zZY78Ye4pchWR8hEEurJfnSNuHYr9v0ABLgBEZi-YJj8SWTafYefuJyX5NpbNZtTF7UeX8S8c14hYkMorh8hhukyuRQq48nwW7Zn9Pu1cNr8yjn4h7cu/s1600/Greenhouse05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcgjmHiv8D1uLtlfGllxRrII12zZY78Ye4pchWR8hEEurJfnSNuHYr9v0ABLgBEZi-YJj8SWTafYefuJyX5NpbNZtTF7UeX8S8c14hYkMorh8hhukyuRQq48nwW7Zn9Pu1cNr8yjn4h7cu/s320/Greenhouse05.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I have been around long enough to have learned that I can only accept what I cannot change. I cannot undo the damage- nor can the greenhouse be repaired. The structure is irreparably damaged. I may be able to salvage many of the plants and possibly the pool and some of the furniture. So, what is next?<br />
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The damage needs to be cleared up, and this is a monumental task. My gardener and I have already been pruning all the damage to the roses. We have taken buckets of broken glass out of their pots. There are some precious ferns, small fig trees , a bay tree and a rosemary bush with strong sentimental value to me. So many of my plants came from people I love- many of whom are no longer with us. We will have to find some help to remove the remains of the steel and glass and other debris. I am hoping for a crew who will respect the garden and do minimal damage in the clean-up operation!<br />
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This is really quite an "Adventure". One of my primary values is "Growth "and this is definitely an opportunity for growth! Dealing with a big loss, mustering my creative thinking to discover how I want to garden now and what I want to save is quite a challenge!<br />
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I am planning to have a new greenhouse ! It is time to redesign my garden. I would like the new greenhouse to be connected to my garden room so that it is closer to the house. I also plan to make the garden easier to maintain. I cannot imagine life without roses, flowers for the bees, the butterflies,and the hummingbirds. I love having little water gardens for frogs and dragon flies! I enjoy growing (and eating!) fruit, vegetables , and my favorite herbs. All of my life I have been strongly connected to these things. Life for me without a garden would be desolate.<br />
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I understand that there are tragedies in life far more sad and challenging than what I am dealing with. I am curious to know how you deal with loss, challenges, Life Adventures. I keep receiving little signs that "All is well, really". I grew up with that conviction and I know in my bones that it is true- but i do struggle with some of the evidence right in front of my eyes! How about you? What sustains you when disaster strikes? Something must- or you would not be here reading this ;^)<br />
Please leave your thoughts /feelings about this topic in the Comments below. I love your comments and I truly appreciate it when you read my Blog! See you next week!colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-41908646184917299612016-10-19T12:12:00.000-07:002016-10-19T12:12:42.172-07:00My Trip to the Pacific Northwest- Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbR5SwIsx_jO0_mq1GAASFLDmMY0AFiWyCr94F3mNMyO0nea65c_PF6Othbb1tyqwMqY0s9Tplq-1tcbVX5HduqQa6TzJV47RdLaf4gC7ofafeFZXPaKzT06fgUUTyKQ06_tXSbqRNVGip/s1600/DSCN7232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbR5SwIsx_jO0_mq1GAASFLDmMY0AFiWyCr94F3mNMyO0nea65c_PF6Othbb1tyqwMqY0s9Tplq-1tcbVX5HduqQa6TzJV47RdLaf4gC7ofafeFZXPaKzT06fgUUTyKQ06_tXSbqRNVGip/s320/DSCN7232.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favourite- the Italian garden at The Butchart Gardens</td></tr>
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My final installment! Today I will take you on a pictorial tour of my stay in Victoria and my day at The Butchart Gardens. The crossing was rough, and quite cold - but well worth it. As soon as we arrived in Victoria the weather was sunny and balmy!<br />
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We stayed in the garden suite at a very nice inn located in a quiet residential neighborhood.<br />
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This is another inn down the street-maybe next time? The roses were fantastic!<br />
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The house across the street from our garden suite. Love the colors! Not unusual in this lovely neighborhood. Victoria is such a colourful place.<br />
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Horses and carriages went by our windows all day (at least when we were there for rest breaks!).<br />
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A wild peacock in the parking lot at our inn! I talked to a neighbor who said that he has been living in the neighborhood for years! Evidently not uncommon here. I used to see wild peacocks growing up in New Orleans not far from Audubon Park- this is a very unusual climate!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Victoria-James Bay</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James Bay area</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Beautiful Butchart Gardens! Just as lovely as I expected. I have been reading about this garden for years. The roses were fantastic! And I was happy to see bees and butterflies throughout the gardens.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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More photos now of the Italian Garden-there is even a place to enjoy some gelato!<br />
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Definitely my favorite of the gardens!<br />
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I had so much fun riding a rose-bedecked white horse on the famous Rose Carousel! For some reason there were more on-lookers than riders...<br />
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Banana tress, palm trees and Pacific Northwest evergreens all growing together! These are mature growing in the ground trees! What a fantastic climate!<br /><br />
I had so much fun on my break. I have more photos, and they may come in handy for other blogs.<br />
Thank you so much for looking at my blog . I am loving the comments! Please keep them coming. I really do want to know what you enjoy seeing here and/or reading. I also welcome emails and pm's on Facebook if you are too shy to post. You might also enjoy my Pinterest boards :<br />
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See you next week. <br />
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<br />colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-91042426297122092282016-10-13T10:32:00.001-07:002016-10-13T10:32:22.383-07:00My Trip to the Pacific Northwest Part 2 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here I am at the Pacific Ocean for the first time. It was cold, windy and thrilling! So worth the trip across the country.<br />
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Here we are in Quinault- shops, restaurants, and very attractive cabins are available.<br />
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There is a beautiful lake to walk around.<br />
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The Lodge looks perfect for a retreat!<br />
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Here is a view of the lake from the restaurant in the lodge.<br />
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Within a very short distance of the lodge is a fantastic rain forest!<br />
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I took so many photos. I was enchanted walking along the steep , narrow paths. There were so many unusual plants to see! And a small river runs through the forest with several rocky waterfalls. The sound of the water was present even when the water was not visible. If I lived nearby I would walk in this forest often!<br />
This area looks like a wonderful place to have a small group retreat. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I so enjoyed this walk!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is my friend peeking through a fallen tree trunk. </td></tr>
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Thank you for stopping by! Next week I will wind up my travels with a trip to Victoria Island and some fun shopping in Seattle. I LOVE Comments! Please leave me one , or email me or pm me on Facebook. You might want to take a peek at my Pinterest Boards :<br />
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a>colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-88004678571657128022016-10-05T04:58:00.001-07:002016-10-05T04:58:14.432-07:00My Retreat to the Pacific Northwest Part 1 Food and relaxing in the Seattle area<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdlN8sQGUmzQgBYNsQKBDCBDZmdOAqMmgU75PR6QFG4NCxCbqmk6cfuu_TfGJ86nUXTQBM4enNkTsiTnugmAPiyRJx_9_jSbTNXQ2CO5ioUVbnL7WZKJ-nUSmF2GDbeffPoAqhSjZA4El/s1600/DSCN7265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdlN8sQGUmzQgBYNsQKBDCBDZmdOAqMmgU75PR6QFG4NCxCbqmk6cfuu_TfGJ86nUXTQBM4enNkTsiTnugmAPiyRJx_9_jSbTNXQ2CO5ioUVbnL7WZKJ-nUSmF2GDbeffPoAqhSjZA4El/s320/DSCN7265.JPG" width="320" /></a><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WPtpk4m9dxPJGwRI3X8fRQcy93QGvl_js4svZ2h1gvQcfmJR3k3s9zT5QB5BxZ-j5QcXZ38lrPZ1OdpyflTCgOzgsGwivUHTFByI8Rfyg4Paa7NHIoKjEVPQEVMqCLe3XcEwnbBUwAvL/s320/DSCN7107.JPG" width="320" />I<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> had a lovely time on my retreat to the <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">P</span>acific <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">N</span>orthwest</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;">. The first day <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">my friend and <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I</span> walked around a lake in a beautiful park near her house. I enjoyed wearing my new red rain cape! The air was alternately drizzly or fre<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">sh and crisp. The scenery was spectacular.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Shopping in Seattle was fun! Especially <span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">downtown at the market. So much to see and appreciate! Especially the food.</span> </span></span></span></span></div>
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The seafood choices were fabulous! I ate King salmon everyday-sometimes at both meals.<br />
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So many gorgeous fruits and vegetables are available. Including one of my favorites-radicchio!<br />
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Here is one of my breakfasts-King salmon, sauteed Italian kale, and some fabulous pizza left over from my lunch the day before. I was thrilled to discover so much Italian food!<br />
I really enjoyed having the leisure to take walks, relax, and eat gorgeous food before taking off for the Pacific Ocean and Victoria. Next week I will share some of my travels. (Still getting back in synch!).<br />
Thank you so much for visiting my blog! You might like to take a peak at my Pinterest boards<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a><br />
I LOVE comments, so please drop me a line! I also welcome pm's on Facebook and emails from my friends! See you next week.colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-11452980541749345652016-09-07T04:52:00.002-07:002016-09-07T04:52:38.113-07:00Appreciating the Beauty of September in My GardenIn many places this Paulownia tomentosa or Princess Tree is considered a weed tree. I love it because it has spectacular lavender and gold fuzzy blossoms in spring and these gorgeous gold seed pods that linger through winter. I enjoy the view of it from my kitchen window. I saw a gorgeous specimen at Monticello years ago and I fell in love. As you can see it is now a very large tree (I grew it from seed) and so far it has not become a pest.<br />
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This is my favorite autumn blooming brown-eyed Susan. A rudbeckia species-I collected seed years ago in a field. It is so cheerful as other flowers are fading.<br />
I love the way it brightens up the vegetable garden paths. I am really enjoying the afternoon sun now. Not so scorching as in July and August, it feels pleasantly warm as I make vain attempts at taming the late summer- early autumn jungle. I am making the effort to show the reality of my garden at this time of year. It has definitely gotten out of hand as is usual after a hot summer!<br />
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Amidst the color there is quite a bit of tall grass that takes over in August. Also the honeysuckle (Lonicera)and trumpet vines( Campsis) and a few oak seedlings planted by the squirrels keep popping up every week.<br />
There are still hummingbirds, dragonflies and many butterflies. Despite the messiness of late summer there is so much color and fragrance to enjoy! <br />
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I hope you are enjoying this late summer /early autumn. Taking walks in the country is a real pleasure now -especially if you see the same places everyday. I love watching the subtle changes as autumn begins to edge out the summer. The summer birds are beginning to head south and the winter residents are beginning to arrive. The colorful summer flowers are slowly giving way to the leaves coloring up on the trees.<br />
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I will be away until October on a media-free retreat and a visit to a dear friend. When i return I hope to have more clarity about the mastermind I will be joining. Also I hope to have some lovely photographs.<br />
Please leave some comments below or email me or pm me on Facebook. I love connecting with you , reading your comments and replying.<br />
You might want to peek at my Pinterest boards.<br />
<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a><br />
Until next time- enjoy your life and Appreciate Beauty Everyday (especially your own!).<br />
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<br />colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-86634722292958403722016-09-01T09:51:00.000-07:002016-09-01T09:51:07.714-07:00Winding up Summer-Staying/Getting on Course<br />
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The vanilla scented Autumn Clematis is blooming all over my landscape. This lovely vine signals for me "Back to School" time! I love the end of August - early September. Back to school time has always seemed to me like a fresh start. I still enjoy indulging in some new "school supplies"'- crisp paper, new pens and pencils , notebooks and of course, art supplies!<br />
I have a "back-to school "project to prepare for. This year I will at long last be joining a Mastermind to learn about business in the 21st C- especially based on a service/connection/ heart centered approach. A few weeks ago I joined Connie Livingston in her Facebook group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/PassionAndPurposeCreateACareerYouLove/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/PassionAndPurposeCreateACareerYouLove/</a> and it has been very enlightening. I especially enjoy Connie's Facebook Live chats which are archived so that they can be viewed again later. There is a wealth of information and there are many tips on finding your purpose and a career you love.I will keep you posted on my progress! Meanwhile Connie has a book Go Forward Fearlessly and a very informative website: (Cornelia Ward IS Connie Livingston! I had to Google DBA to understand that some states encourage a business name <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/doing-business-as-dba">https://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/doing-business-as-dba~)</a><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;"><strong>Author Cornelia Ward</strong> is a career and business mentor who helps people love Mondays! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;">What does
that mean? Well, 80% of Americans wake up each morning dragging
themselves to a job that’s just not working for them. She thinks this
is completely crazy!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;">Cornelia
works with people to create a career transition plan - whether it's
starting their own business or finding a new career path that really
lights them up - so that they're really excited every Monday morning to
get back to work! This includes people who are self-employed and want
to move deeper into the work they are meant to do or who are confident
they are fulfilling their life purpose now but want to reach more
people.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;">Her website is <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.lifepurposestrategysession.com/&source=gmail&ust=1472832246625000&usg=AFQjCNE_Lh8fIhlZdNUqfFJGIJMRr7yWGg" href="http://www.lifepurposestrategysession.com/" target="_blank">www.<wbr></wbr>LifePurposeStrategySession.com</a><wbr></wbr> where
you can request a Complimentary Life Purpose Strategy Session with
Cornelia and download a free copy of her book Go Forward Fearlessly! –
perfect for anyone navigating major life transitions!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;">At these
Complimentary Life Purpose Strategy Sessions, people walk away with so
much more hope about the future and with concrete and creative ideas
that they can implement immediately in their lives.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia,palatino; font-size: small;">She has a free audio podcast, Go For Your Life Purpose, available on Itunes, Stitcher and at her website <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.goforwardfearlesslybook.com/&source=gmail&ust=1472832246625000&usg=AFQjCNE006_duk8F4xlAScfOOGcpBHjwLw" href="http://www.goforwardfearlesslybook.com/" target="_blank">www.<wbr></wbr>GoForwardFearlesslyBook.com</a></span><br />
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I am also delighted to share that Reba Linker has a brilliant new approach this autumn. Reba hosts the Leaders in Self Love Facebook group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadersinselflove/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadersinselflove/</a> which is upbeat , fun , and offers common sense about living a happy life. Reba reminds me of one of my favorite quotations from Jane Austen "Let other pens dwell on guilt and misery..." She focuses on what is good about life and she inspires us to share our insight and experiences. <br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2YwEFKWhEw" target="_blank"><br /></a>
Reba is staging a revolution in common sense with her Courses a
la Carte page! She has the 10-course meals – those courses with multiple
lessons that will walk you through months of lessons, AND she has also
innovated a series of ‘mini-courses.’This is a BRILLIANT approach - no overwhelm - just enough in each mini -course to inspire you to use the lessons in your life!<br />
<div class="-cx-PUBLIC-ComposedDocument__block _2cuy -cx-PUBLIC-ComposedDocument__unstyled _3dgx -cx-PRIVATE-ComposedTextDirection__ltr _2vxa">
The
mini-courses each have a central theme, a single lesson to give you
exactly what you need at the moment. After each mini-course you get a
beautiful Certificate of Completion that gives you a wonderful feeling
of accomplishment and completion. Each mini-course stands alone. You can
continue your exploration at your own pace when you are ready for the
next mini-course. </div>
<div class="-cx-PUBLIC-ComposedDocument__block _2cuy -cx-PUBLIC-ComposedDocument__unstyled _3dgx -cx-PRIVATE-ComposedTextDirection__ltr _2vxa">
Click here to visit Reba’s Courses a la Carte page! <a data-store="{"dest_uri":"http:\/\/rebalinker.com\/courses\/","logging_uri":"\/si\/ajax\/l\/render_linkshim_log\/?u=http\u00253A\u00252F\u00252Frebalinker.com\u00252Fcourses\u00252F&h=OAQFFMhjq&render_verification=0&enc&d"}" href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Frebalinker.com%2Fcourses%2F&h=OAQFFMhjq&s=1" target="_blank">http://rebalinker.com/courses/</a><br />
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So, how about you? Are you in "back to school"mode? If so, what are you doing? Are you exploring new ways of learning? Are you curious about the links I posted above? Do you join Facebook groups to discover new friends and new experiences?<br />
I love your Comments! Please leave comments or email me or pm me on Facebook. Also take a peek at my Pinterest boards <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a> and please share yours with me! Thank you for stopping by!</div>
colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-52028841062866809032016-08-24T04:47:00.000-07:002016-08-24T04:47:44.988-07:00Dress Like an Icon Part Two- Days 5-7This week I am winding up the Dress like an Icon Challenge from Eyenie Schultz on Facebook.<br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Day 5 " </span></span></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">
Using Intuitive Dressing, tap into your Iconic Visionary Dream Self and
wear something that scares the dickens out of you! Maybe it's a skirt
that you love that's shorter than usual. Maybe it's an extra blingy
piece of jewelry or a razzle-dazzle sparkly dress. Perhaps it's
something involving studs or leather or feathers or bright-ass colors,
or that hugs your curves in all the right places! Have fun and get
risky!!! Own it!" </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">We
were supposed to do a video- but I could not manage it, so I took extra
pictures. I received this gorgeous tiara for my birthday in April and I
have worn it only once before and even <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">then</span> just for photos. Next time I
wear it <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I plan to actually have people see me in it- not just in photos. <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">This Challenge is giving me growing pains!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyeNdnZDRixgjlbQQ_DJ2miZSWWcqH1yK5ogW6K-dh_WvbcKj0sOML0iU1HCN6lsXaHoog28Khl4rP8n9R7iKhB8oFDp1LFShg6IE8ZZhMHQ-LGE6HGBZjdagwLNeZEuZoH2K8fWVVFF2/s1600/MAH00714+%25285%2529+%2528337x640%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyeNdnZDRixgjlbQQ_DJ2miZSWWcqH1yK5ogW6K-dh_WvbcKj0sOML0iU1HCN6lsXaHoog28Khl4rP8n9R7iKhB8oFDp1LFShg6IE8ZZhMHQ-LGE6HGBZjdagwLNeZEuZoH2K8fWVVFF2/s320/MAH00714+%25285%2529+%2528337x640%2529.jpg" width="168" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PHt0uy9R_Jts5kccgIT46o1QJPsj258k0qconzpZ0rJNx-gzIxRXKDgS1UaqMh6OUANB71OlQJSxNZbhanGOaOIOYfojelXFDjSdAscrbnwdd8LBWNXUDzrzJYVhXbsvxkCrUEgs6Dw8/s1600/MAH00714+%25289%2529+%2528306x640%2529.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6PHt0uy9R_Jts5kccgIT46o1QJPsj258k0qconzpZ0rJNx-gzIxRXKDgS1UaqMh6OUANB71OlQJSxNZbhanGOaOIOYfojelXFDjSdAscrbnwdd8LBWNXUDzrzJYVhXbsvxkCrUEgs6Dw8/s320/MAH00714+%25289%2529+%2528306x640%2529.jpg" width="153" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span>I LOVE tiaras! The more sparkle the better! I LOVE pink sandals! I LOVE crystal necklaces! I L<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">OVE
long dresses! Especially when they tie in back! I am going to wear
what I love from now on and not care if people think I am crazy. I can
be Crazy-Beautiful !</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoN1XneBnHoFZzaBEikLyeFXZMPhS6rWBM7V58wwgs31Zp0RHyNZsHnxaFtuuZDf2iVOONn6hdGlLa3Ac7EpI7SDBizfAWrsv2tVLxGJSqnKiqsiFjUct3ox9PR-_13kHR6LGaADiRgDd8/s1600/MAH00714+%25283%2529+%2528276x640%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoN1XneBnHoFZzaBEikLyeFXZMPhS6rWBM7V58wwgs31Zp0RHyNZsHnxaFtuuZDf2iVOONn6hdGlLa3Ac7EpI7SDBizfAWrsv2tVLxGJSqnKiqsiFjUct3ox9PR-_13kHR6LGaADiRgDd8/s320/MAH00714+%25283%2529+%2528276x640%2529.jpg" width="138" /></a> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE24FjdFFnRSP-pkPJmLRrbRRTCuMHe-HLuZSwuvCQxHxLlK4LJ5pZSrqPmi3DDsIYhLuK0yB475MsfjVi9eD19QFajjHGd1tNKWcHzqX6TMiYwTLw36xlbB-IabYYfa9Mn1-VvQByf5wJ/s1600/MAH00714+%25288%2529+%2528448x640%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE24FjdFFnRSP-pkPJmLRrbRRTCuMHe-HLuZSwuvCQxHxLlK4LJ5pZSrqPmi3DDsIYhLuK0yB475MsfjVi9eD19QFajjHGd1tNKWcHzqX6TMiYwTLw36xlbB-IabYYfa9Mn1-VvQByf5wJ/s320/MAH00714+%25288%2529+%2528448x640%2529.jpg" width="224" /></a></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Day 6 <span data-offset-key="77gcn-0-0"><span data-text="true">Here is my Day 6 outfit. </span></span><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">
A Vintage dress- never worn by me hanging in my sewing room ( for more
years!! than I want to count). I also excavated some vintage satin lace
trimmed full slips!! This Challenge is so much fun, <a class="profileLink" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/hovercard.php?id=603000533&extragetparams=%7B%22hc_location%22%3A%22ufi%22%7D" dir="ltr" href="https://www.facebook.com/eyenie.schultz?hc_location=ufi" target="_blank">Eyenie Schultz</a>-thank you!</span></span><br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"> </span></span><span data-offset-key="77gcn-0-0"><span data-text="true"> My Iconic art
is taking vintage pieces and giving them another chance to be seen. This
dress was my step mother's.It is difficult to see, but it is
embroidered cotton gauze from Germany- it was vintage 50 years ago when
she acquired it. It is really too big and my plan is to make a tunic
-cutting away the plain gauze and keeping every bit of embroidery!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyBYytIbA-uO83HOzyjsUTrNQi_5mjxdoRB8Pg0Hzzj7UMJZSEov-_go0-nqAncGGoK1SAQwrRqlTXrT30mGkiBsCWD7wEsLcNEH9w-Ku-7cgAqAAWVpo2tcIqcU6DR2cbT0JhAzIxFZL/s1600/MAH00717+%252819%2529+%2528322x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyBYytIbA-uO83HOzyjsUTrNQi_5mjxdoRB8Pg0Hzzj7UMJZSEov-_go0-nqAncGGoK1SAQwrRqlTXrT30mGkiBsCWD7wEsLcNEH9w-Ku-7cgAqAAWVpo2tcIqcU6DR2cbT0JhAzIxFZL/s320/MAH00717+%252819%2529+%2528322x640%2529.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQaDpX5O6owYB8C-nr727uYZ8Nx1raaCafpG0tbRGlCsDEibPvIEjQUHoYFQPF_SlPK2rifYq-m79MGLIfNaCkmAdIfRSL9T9BcZYdioC3Mqr9T91jZpNKYs87yRRYA0GcNSe6vR_2Zbc/s1600/MAH00719+%25281%2529+%2528361x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQaDpX5O6owYB8C-nr727uYZ8Nx1raaCafpG0tbRGlCsDEibPvIEjQUHoYFQPF_SlPK2rifYq-m79MGLIfNaCkmAdIfRSL9T9BcZYdioC3Mqr9T91jZpNKYs87yRRYA0GcNSe6vR_2Zbc/s320/MAH00719+%25281%2529+%2528361x640%2529.jpg" width="180" /></a><span data-offset-key="77gcn-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Day 7 </span></span> <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">OMG!
I made it! I hate taking photos of myself- but I have grown into it a
bit. I really enjoyed excavating unworn clothes that I LOVE, but have
never worn. Today I wore this vintage 50s dress-complete with
appropriate "foundation garments" - not a crinoline (too hot!) but a lovely vintage
cotton buckram petticoat to make the skirt stand out! I am surprised at
how many nice comments and compliments I have received this week as I
dressed just for me! This has been an enlightening challenge. Thank you,
<a class="profileLink" data-hovercard="/ajax/hovercard/hovercard.php?id=603000533&extragetparams=%7B%22hc_location%22%3A%22ufi%22%7D" dir="ltr" href="https://www.facebook.com/eyenie.schultz?hc_location=ufi" id="js_s" target="_blank">Eyenie Schultz</a>
for creating this growth experience. I do not plan to look back (except
by dressing my way- vintage /retro!). From now on I am dressing to feel
good, to feel beautiful and to please myself! </span></span><br />
<br />
<span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody">How about YOU? Do you dress to be the person you aspire to be? Do you dress to please yourself? Sometimes even with work uniforms we can add an accessory or two to make a statement. I would love to read comments about how you respond to this challenge. Please leave a comment below or email me or comment on Facebook. I love the comments on these blogs! Thank you for stopping by!</span></span>colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-63607512980291431462016-08-16T13:53:00.000-07:002016-08-16T13:53:06.647-07:00A New Challenge : Dress Like An Icon (quite a challenge!) Part One Days1-4I LOVE Facebook challenges. This one is called Dress Like An Icon hosted by Eyenie Schultz on the Facebook Group The NEON Parlor (she is a creative genius).<br />
I am doing this because I believe that the way we dress shows ourselves and others how we feel about our bodies. Do we just put on any old things that are comfortable? Comfort IS important- no doubt about it. The body wants to feel good and be comfortable! However I think we can be comfortable and still dress and adorn ourselves in self-expressive ways. I have been so impressed by the diversity of ways that the participants have dressed during this challenge. I LOVE the variety of styles and creativity expressed. I would love to see everyone dress self-expressively everyday! It is such a pleasure to see others dressed and adorned in their own special ways.<br />
Day 1 we cleaned out clothes, personal care items, jewelry, etc. that no longer serves us. This part was easy for me because I have done it so often. The next part was not so easy. We were to choose an outfit we have never worn before, intuitively - by how we want to feel. I was surprised because I chose all white-including a pair of brand new white jeans that have been hanging in my closet unworn and a white lace top I crocheted this spring, but also never worn. The hardest part was posting a photo and describing how we feel.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIfmbjKfnYdZE2CrwUtQUy78rxh0Om4JhzA2QiiF_K_YWJqL6uoPX9B84eW3h6wvVWCKYL0ZJCZVu6Mn5onpZAA74cWfjUMIR5SIofCU6X5kJxWQR9G4doYJYcEopqzIoaPmqoFSvI-_A/s1600/MAH00701+%25284%2529+%2528640x523%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIfmbjKfnYdZE2CrwUtQUy78rxh0Om4JhzA2QiiF_K_YWJqL6uoPX9B84eW3h6wvVWCKYL0ZJCZVu6Mn5onpZAA74cWfjUMIR5SIofCU6X5kJxWQR9G4doYJYcEopqzIoaPmqoFSvI-_A/s320/MAH00701+%25284%2529+%2528640x523%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I felt cool, light, bright, summery and especially dancey. Maybe the shoes make me feel like dancing?<br />
<br />
Day 2 OMG - adorn ourselves to express the belief that we are more than enough and :<br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">
"Bring in something fancy, over-the-top, exciting, extra vibrant, funky
or usually reserved for special occasions to seal the deal. Own the
frick frack out of it!"</span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">I love this little tiara with the golden Swarovski stars</span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">The dress is made from a vintage pattern. The photos do not do justice to the fabric which is a lovely embossed cotton with gold thread embellishing the flowers. I am wearing gold sandals-and I even painted my toe<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">nails gold!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">Yikes! If this goes on , how will I make it through Day 7? It is FUN to play dress up! I always loved dressing up and I do dress most days. This challenge is going to get me into EVERY DAY. I will have to see about some glam work clothes.... I am thinking plain shirts and pants impressionistically painted with swirls of my favorite colours...</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">Day 3 Own a truth about how we <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">really want to dress-I am unabashedly Retro! The Laura Ashley fabric is from the early 80s, the dress pattern is from the<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> early 60s- the pearl necklace and earrings are heirloom and the shoes are vintage! I am learning that <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I</span> feel most like myself when I wear elegant Retro clothes -despite the current fashion for a more casual look.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;">Day 4 The Dream You- dress intuitively to be the woman you aspire to be. This took me all day! I have the dress (it's been hanging in my closet unworn for 2 years<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">) and the shoes (any one of 3 pair of gold sandals)<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">- I have not been ready to step into the woman I aspire to be yet. What is holding me back ? Well for one thing I have braces and 4 rubber bands in my teeth that keep me from smiling at the moment. If I break into my usual spontaneous smile the rubber bands pop loose or break. Not conducive to taking photos. This too shall pass and at least <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I</span> have the dress, the shoes and the jewelry. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> I love everything about this dress! The style, the colour, the lovely soft feel of the fabric, the gold spar<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">kl<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">ing</span> design that does not show up in the photos. At least <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">I</span> am on my way! This challenge is <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">GROWING</span> me !</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">What is your favorite way to dress self -expressively? What are your favourite colours/ articles of clothing? jewelry? What makes you feel wonderful and most like YOU? Do you make any of your own things? Do you have a favourite place to shop? How would you describe your style? Do you adorn <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">b</span>eautiful you with even just a little something special every day?</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Please leave a comment below and answer some of these questions! I love comments and I really appreciate that you are reading my blog. You can comment below or pm me on Facebook or email me <a href="mailto:colleen412@gmail.com"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">c</span>olleen412@gmail.com</a></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Also you might want to peek at my Pinterest boards <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/ </a></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 21px;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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</span>colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-5332366893403376472016-08-10T04:45:00.000-07:002016-08-10T04:45:09.121-07:00San Lorenzo - Make a Wish on a Shooting Star!Tonight is the Night of San Lorenzo! Those of us who read Italian can see many accounts on the net. Here is one<br />
<a href="http://www.ilsussidiario.net/News/Cronaca/2016/8/10/NOTTE-DI-SAN-LORENZO-2016-Le-stelle-cadenti-in-arrivo-le-localita-migliori-per-osservare-il-fenomeno-oggi-10-agosto-/718148/" target="_blank"> http://www.ilsussidiario.net/News/Cronaca/2016/8/10/NOTTE-DI-SAN-LORENZO-2016-Le-stelle-cadenti-in-arrivo-le-localita-migliori-per-osservare-il-fenomeno-oggi-10-agosto-/718148/</a><br />
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There are also accounts in English<br />
<a href="http://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/meteor-shower/perseid.html" target="_blank"> http://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/meteor-shower/perseid.html</a><br />
<br />
Some accounts say
that San Lorenzo is the patron saint of booksellers-and since I was a
bookseller for many years, I feel certain that I can wish tonight:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://archyworldys.com/night-of-san-lorenzo-2016-events-in-milan-and-italy/">http://archyworldys.com/night-of-san-lorenzo-2016-events-in-milan-and-italy/</a><br />
<br />Where I live it is forecast to be mostly clear from about 1am- 4am so maybe by some miracle I will be able to see the Perseid shower this year on the actual Night of San Lorenzo. It is usually too cloudy or actually raining. The peak time is tomorrow night- but I plan to be out there tonight as well to make my wish. When I was a child I would stand out under the stars or look out my window and make a wish because I always felt that the stars were shooting above me whether or not I could actually see them -and I might as well make a wish! I have better luck seeing the shooting stars in winter when the skies are generally clear here. <br />
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Here are some of my favorite pictures from old children's books depicting stars falling and making wishes. It is never too late to begin making wishes and believing that they will come true!<br />
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Do you stargaze? Are you going out this week to see the shooting stars? I hope your wishes come true!<br />
Please leave a comment below or email me <a href="mailto:colleen412@gmail.com">colleen412@gmail.com</a> or pm me on Facebook. I Love comments. Also see my Pinterest boards <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/">https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/</a>colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-41104243541202032792016-08-02T15:19:00.000-07:002016-08-02T15:19:23.867-07:00Creative Energy Optimizing - Crochet and Dressing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been stormy, wet,hot, muggy and buggy! No gardening - no playing outside. Instead, I have been crocheting!<br />
Ever since I was a little girl watching my grandmother and my aunts crochet I have wanted to learn. Alas, I never was able to stay with them long enough for them to teach me. It is never too late! A few years ago a friend sat me down and taught me how. Whenever I start a new project I think about her and I am so happy that she is such a good teacher. I have always admired crochet lace and the lovely garments that can be made. My friend set me on an adventure in creativity! I now have quite a collection of patterns and ideas for adding embellishments to existing garments, as well as many completed projects that I love to wear.<br />
To cheer myself up in the Summer Doldrums I bought this book:<br />
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I am working on the pattern shown on the cover. It is fun learning a new technique for making a fitted garment! I have just begun as you can see:<br />
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I use giant pins as markers because counting is not my strong point! This pattern and the thread I chose make a lovely stretchy fabric. I will keep you posted when I finish....<br />
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Meanwhile here are some things I have made successfully. I love this tunic! It looks very nice with leggings or skinny jeans. ( My mouth is wide open because I am singing)<br />
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Here is an Italian scarf pattern I made. It was a challenge to learn the terms in Italian and some of the stitches! Again, it is a very soft, stretchy fabric and I love the colors!<br />
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Finally - a real challenge! These slippers require shaping and careful counting so that they fit properly. I made them to wear to Ecstatic Dance. I do not like to dance barefoot and since nearly everyone else does, I did not want to wear dance shoes in case I inadvertently stepped on someone's toes! These colorful soft slippers are perfect. They have been much admired.<br />
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I love crafting unique garments to wear. It is fun to imagine them and then to find the patterns and materials to make them. I have learned to sew and I struggle with knitting (I drop stitches!) but crochet remains my favourite -especially since I can create multicoloured things in exactly the combinations I like.<br />
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Do you create any of your own clothing? I would love to inspire you to make something uniquely lovely just for you! Is there a craft or a skill you have learned or one that you would like to learn so that you can enjoy creating something special?<br />
Please leave a comment here or email me or on Facebook! I love to be inspired by you. Also have a peek at my Pinterest boards https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/ and leave me a link to yours! I am a Pinterest junkie.colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-48187565169128540392016-07-27T04:24:00.000-07:002016-07-27T04:24:20.349-07:00Summer BeautyI loved the comments from last week. I have decided to just enjoy the beauty that is now and not fret about the weeds winning right now. As soon as I decided to adopt this attitude I began to enjoy the summer a bit more. I am enjoying the colors, the fragrances, and the grace of the butterflies, the dragonflies, and at night- the fireflies.<br />
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This is Joe Pye- it's 6 feet tall this year! There are so many Tiger Swallowtail butterflies right now.<br />
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This is a favorite from childhood. I cannot walk past this phlox without inhaling its intoxicating fragrance. I have to be careful early in the morning - there are usually bumblebees still asleep on the flowers!<br />
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I have fields of Queen Anne's Lace right now. I allow it everywhere - even in the flower borders and the vegetable garden because so many insects love it. Also I love the way it turns the fields into flowery meadows!<br />
What beauty are you appreciating this summer? The beach and the ocean? Perhaps a lake or river? The mountains? Your own garden? Perhaps you are travelling to places you have always wanted to see. If you are in a hammock or a chaise-longue reading a book you can enjoy the beauty around you. Perhaps you only have time to enjoy a meal outdoors. I would love to read your comments! You may leave them here or pm me on Facebook or email me at colleen412@gmail .com. You might also take a peek at my Pinterest boards https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-58958911288080870602016-07-19T07:01:00.000-07:002016-07-19T07:01:41.922-07:00Attack of the Summer DoldrumsHere we are in mid-July . The heat has really turned up , along with thick humid air and even more varieties of biting insects. Last week I worked valiantly in the garden, but I became overheated with a headache and general queasy feeling. I am giving in to the Summer Doldrums! I am conceding that the weeds are winning yet another summer. The days are hot and often gloomy this time of year (at least we have had rain- but it does not cool the temperatures). My lovely landscape is looking like a jungle!<br />
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It is very lush and extremely untidy! I tried to keep up my Secret Garden. For now,though, <br />
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work has come to a stand still. It is too hot even to divide and move the daylilies!<br />
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I know from past experience that if I wait for more temperate weather I will be able to catch up. It took me a long time to learn when to desist and not fight uphill battles- especially in the garden! I am aware now of my tendency to burn out when I push myself.<br />
I am learning to accept and be present with "what is". And "what is" now is hot, muggy, buggy weather- for me , the Summer Doldrums!<br />
I am giving myself permission to let the garden go ( maintaining reasonable access, watering when necessary, harvesting vegetables and any blueberries the wild life leaves for me ). So I have begun to go out very early most mornings for no more than an hour to work or survey what is going on. I am enjoying sunbathing on mornings when the humidity is not unbearable.<br />
I am focusing on other areas of my life- my work and my creativity. I am enjoying catching up on some of my projects. I am enjoying doing this in the air conditioning!<br />
When the days are a bit cooler and drier I will enjoy working in my gardens again. Meanwhile I can enjoy the colorful flowers that shine through the weeds as well as the butterflies, dragonflies, humming birds, all the other birds, the bees , and at night the lovely light dances of the fireflies from my bedroom windows. I am learning to appreciate the beauty everyday in the Summer Doldrums. It has been another steep learning curve...<br />
At least the plantings on the terrace and at the front door are not wilting or overgrown with weeds!<br />
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Thank you for stopping by! I would love to know if you experience the Summer Doldrums and how you cope with them! Please leave a comment below or if you are my friend on Facebook pm me or email me colleen412@gmail.com<br />
I also love exchanging pins on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2477645504063971436.post-7993114938967308422016-07-13T04:22:00.000-07:002016-07-13T04:22:19.980-07:00Influenced, Inspired, and Empowered by FriendsThis week several times I have been in conversations about friendship and how we are influenced, inspired and empowered by friends. The people we spend time with - especially those we share more than superficial life experiences with - can have a profound effect on our character and our outlook on life.<br />
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This week a friend I have known for most of my life is celebrating a landmark birthday. I have been reflecting on how he has influenced and inspired me through the years to develop new interests ( or revive longstanding ones!) to learn new skills, and to become acquainted with a variety of people who excel in these interests and/or skills. My life has been so much richer by his presence.<br />
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I can think of so many friends who have inspired (and continue to inspire) me to grow. Some of them have been in my life for many years, some of them have come into my life relatively recently. There are a select number of friends whom I only see on Skype, Facebook, and/or their blogs. What all of my friends have in common are various qualities that I admire and aspire to develop in myself. They inspire me to continue to grow into the best possible version of myself. Every one of them has influenced me to keep my heart and mind open to possibilities and challenges.<br />
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My friends and I also empower each other. There is reciprocal give and take. One is not the "helper"and the other the "helped"nor the "advisor and the other the "advised". I was reminded yesterday of a friend who knows my ineptness with mechanical things. Very patiently she has shown me how some of my tools are best used and how to assemble them . I needed to use one yesterday and I was reminded of her patient instruction. Then I slowly ( with a couple of mistakes!) managed to assemble and use the tool all by myself. I also took it apart and stored it properly afterwards. I was proud of myself and I was appreciating my friend for empowering me.<br />
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It has taken me some time to be aware of the friendships I keep and the ones I let go. I am more aware of who I am becoming as a result of the company I keep. I truly appreciate the give and take of inspiring friendships.<br />
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Have you reflected on the friends you choose to spend time with? How do they influence, inspire and empower you? How do you influence, inspire, and empower them to be the best version of themselves?<br />
Please share your reflections on friends! I would love to read comments here on the blog or you can e-mail me at colleen412@gmail.com or pm me on Facebook. You might also enjoy my Pinterest boards https://www.pinterest.com/colleen2322/<br />
Thank you for stopping by!colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08151269790181106294noreply@blogger.com5