tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45681408916694254552024-02-18T23:59:59.336-08:00Susan deGeneres StudioSusan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-69179441436311285922013-11-08T10:41:00.000-08:002013-11-08T10:41:05.192-08:00Off the CuffHey! I think I'm on a roll here in blogland. A new post two days in a row! This will be a short one though, cuz I'm at my <em>Just Beautiful</em> boutique and supposed to be working on financial reports in between customer visits. I really just stopped by to post a couple of photos of a bridal cuff I made for a customer to give to her daughter as a sweet little pre-wedding gift.<br />
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I wish I had a picture of it on a wrist. The middle strip is vintage white velvet ribbon with little black loops along the edge -- can't remember the name for it piquoe or something, I think. The narrow ribbon has metallic embroidery in a rose pattern that's really pretty. Then it ties on with a narrow black velvet ribbon. These are sooo fun to make! You should try it.</div>
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Well, back to the VERY uncreative world of finances.</div>
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See you later alligator(s)!</div>
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Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-18610743961265754042013-11-07T14:58:00.001-08:002013-11-07T17:00:56.809-08:00Two Posts in Seven Days - A MiracleWell hello there. Yes, its me -- don't fall off your chair. Its cold here (38 degrees) and the last hour of business for my little boutique is quiet, so I thought I'd share a few new photos. I had a dress giveaway on Nov. 1st and the winner has already been in to claim her prize. Actually, I think she came directly from school on Friday and here is the dress she chose.<br />
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Actually, now that I've uploaded the photo, I realize that it doesn't do this gown justice. Its absolutely stunning in person and one of my personal favorites. Congratulations Halley!</div>
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The white plastic, hanging manni is so plain-jane, but here is a table top version that I transformed with some antique wall paper scraps, some crepe paper that I ruffled up and some packing paper that I saved - okay hoarded from a dress shipment . The ruffling took forever, but I think the result is worth it. (These mannequins can be found at Barr Display and are very affordable.) I first saw them at <a href="http://thepolkadotcloset.blogspot.com/">The Polka Dot Closet</a>. Thanks Carol!</div>
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I hope to eventually get to the two hanging manni's, but they always have a dress on them so I'm not sure when I'll be able to get them done. This project was really fun, and I told my dear husband that if the dress shop doesn't workout, I may try for a second (third? okay fourth) career altering them.</div>
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Now, last but not least is a project that I've been wanting to try. I'm sure you recognize these burnt posies. They've been around for a while, but I only recently had a chance to try my hand at making them. I made this one for a special customer using the fabric we cut off her dress when we hemmed it. It was really fun and I'll definitely be making more. </div>
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Well, that's all for today from the little boutique around the corner.</div>
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I've enjoyed our visit and hope that you did too.</div>
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Fingers crossed, I'll see you soon.</div>
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<span id="goog_1187913952"></span><span id="goog_1187913953"></span><br />Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-27877298684124963672013-11-01T15:01:00.000-07:002013-11-01T15:01:11.742-07:00Spring to Autumn in a Flash!I turned the page on the calendar today and realized with a sudden jolt that the year was quickly coming to a close. It seems like just yesterday that the tulips were pushing through the still cold ground. Today, the leaves are blowing off the trees and the ground is again turning cold. And so, I am once again, feeling much chagrined at having let so much time slip away, coming back to blogland - like home, its a place that's never far away.<br />
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Much of my time this year has been spent here, at my boutique. Like most start-up businesses its been a wild ride. Some days a little too wild, but those stories can wait. Today, I'll just say hello and share a photo of my store front, dressed up in autumn holiday style.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-ChumQR-uk393KvNNbiSWhOtFYTKWzVcepMxMXvYdDKvkmz2jmO1kruGpdNakpnCDMAb_WpxhwRuHKc37HBdbP2za8_g4yqGewvwYz5iOpUlcZSD-wvp-_ZbAqKhNncIRFLjQBb8c4RI/s1600/DSC_0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-ChumQR-uk393KvNNbiSWhOtFYTKWzVcepMxMXvYdDKvkmz2jmO1kruGpdNakpnCDMAb_WpxhwRuHKc37HBdbP2za8_g4yqGewvwYz5iOpUlcZSD-wvp-_ZbAqKhNncIRFLjQBb8c4RI/s640/DSC_0156.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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I spray painted a rough-around-the edges plastic mannequin with chalkboard paint. Yesterday, she welcomed little tricksters, but she's very accommodating and versatile.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by.</div>
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<span id="goog_1064275524"></span><span id="goog_1064275525"></span><br />Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-33850518516025860202013-01-01T13:18:00.000-08:002013-01-01T13:18:20.464-08:00A Simply Good Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The new year has just begun and I find myself </div>
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wondering what it will bring: <em>Beauty, Creativity, Adventure</em>.</div>
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I'm hoping for all of the above, but I'm also longing for</div>
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days filled with quiet, simple pleasures.</div>
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I wasn't able to create much art in 2012, this <em>Timekeeper </em>was one</div>
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of the few pieces I managed to get done. He has gone to a good</div>
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home and joins a small collection of my work, but I have his image to remind</div>
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me that while time marches on, we don't always have to race around</div>
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at a break-neck pace. </div>
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Sometimes if we just take one day at a time</div>
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we can pause long enough to enjoy the small, quiet things that bring such </div>
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pleasure: the smell of fresh coffee, the sparkle of snow under a clear</div>
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blue sky, a warm bed and a good book, reuniting with good friends.</div>
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So <em>Happy New Year</em> dear friends,</div>
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I hope your 2013 is filled with simple joys.</div>
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Hugs, </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span> </div>
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Susan</div>
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Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-47309222669919958532012-12-28T14:27:00.000-08:002012-12-28T18:47:00.322-08:00Sometimes You Just Gotta Let Go...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"> ...</span><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>In Order to Fly.</em></span></span></div>
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Its been nearly two years since I posted regularly on this blog.</div>
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I think I'm ready to give it another spin. But just in case I</div>
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take a spill, I'll be ready for a soft landing!</div>
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Wishing You a <em><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #073763; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Happy New Year</span> </span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Susan</em></span></div>
Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-4611987510109594202012-12-14T15:03:00.000-08:002012-12-14T15:07:43.546-08:00May the angels hold you<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My heart goes out to the families in Newtown, CT.</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">who lost children and loved ones today.</span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I know posting on a blog that no one may see is a small gesture,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">but perhaps the love pouring from my broken heart</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> will join with the love of so many others</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">and eventually provide some</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">small measure of comfort.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Thank you - to who ever took this beautiful photograph. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(found on Pintrest)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Your image says what my words cannot.</span></div>
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Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-24618097758811371642011-03-23T07:29:00.000-07:002011-03-23T07:29:44.906-07:00Yipee! It's Spring?Monday was the official start of Spring; and it's true, as I walked around the garden making note of the chores to be done, I spied Daffodil shoots and the red tips of my favorite Peonies poking up and even the tiniest yellow Crocus in bloom. Then yesterday, came warnings of a winter storm -- snow, freezing rain and even "thunder snow" complete with lightening. And this morning, we had this...<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSb-3DH73sJyAy6kNzMAVHLoRi2sN_ofF_D-1ofTXCeytAEkgovXuMoBijmXWf4URewSYb5HrcNt3MiZnMnRerOD_vxsd7igiFjhYLnU1i5yx9hZjhimflJYRUMbDHpFUmAGEomaPxFg5/s1600/DSC_0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwSb-3DH73sJyAy6kNzMAVHLoRi2sN_ofF_D-1ofTXCeytAEkgovXuMoBijmXWf4URewSYb5HrcNt3MiZnMnRerOD_vxsd7igiFjhYLnU1i5yx9hZjhimflJYRUMbDHpFUmAGEomaPxFg5/s400/DSC_0070.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cold temps are predicted all week, so this stuff will be hanging around</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">for awhile. Ironically, we are getting ready for a folk art and antique</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">show on Saturday, called "The Promise of Spring." Maybe we'll</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">be too busy to notice this (hopefully) last blast of winter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nah. Not possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I hope your gardens are green and your skies are blue, dear friends.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs, Susan </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-81034905689356432852011-03-16T09:05:00.000-07:002011-03-16T09:05:04.678-07:00Also Known As...A Bad Hair DayHave you ever had one of <em>those </em>days? I'm sure we all have, and I'm having one today. It started out rough because I overslept. So by the time I pulled myself out of bed, my back was aching from having laid too long. Creaking along like an old woman, I pulled on my robe and slippers and headed to the bathroom. As I passed the mirror...Oh Lord! It looked like <em>Cindy Lou Whoo</em> had been by to do my hair.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm854y93V3gu5d91LiJPOC2MAQ4eb114eeO_HqOdIfKhqd-96C23_YDrJ6sg4hqctVjwnJMiWRvmooA8RT5gNr66POuJL3M_dxqxtlB3aElCsfeMwdQN8zKTXunngDfbpeFuzyu5HFNzrv/s1600/Bad+Hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm854y93V3gu5d91LiJPOC2MAQ4eb114eeO_HqOdIfKhqd-96C23_YDrJ6sg4hqctVjwnJMiWRvmooA8RT5gNr66POuJL3M_dxqxtlB3aElCsfeMwdQN8zKTXunngDfbpeFuzyu5HFNzrv/s400/Bad+Hair.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I tried smashing it down but it just popped back up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I should jump immediately in the shower and let hot water and shampoo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">work its magic...but I REALLY want a cup of coffee.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wait! I'm the only one here, who's going to see me?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5JmEZOkPxwK69twNG3KqOwU_W4caorKk4I51SXCFtsdGdVzYOUbZjcR6IL-etxkKTfejtlSKn8zOOekgV8XnpPqmFmlFxMjJcOrZvjG4GcHqksRXLCx4fOR5gFbRGjQ0LiXYsarhQWED/s1600/DSCN1670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5JmEZOkPxwK69twNG3KqOwU_W4caorKk4I51SXCFtsdGdVzYOUbZjcR6IL-etxkKTfejtlSKn8zOOekgV8XnpPqmFmlFxMjJcOrZvjG4GcHqksRXLCx4fOR5gFbRGjQ0LiXYsarhQWED/s400/DSCN1670.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You know they're thinking..."What the heck is up with Mom's hair?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Luckily they are easily bribed with doggy biscuits.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With coffee in hand, I head to the sofa to check on the morning news -</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">hoping it isn't too awful. It's 9:15 am and the news is awful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What's that noise? A FedEx truck pulling in the driveway. Maybe he'll </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">just leave the box and go away. No such luck. Doorbell rings, doggies go </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">into a fit of barking, and I briefly think about my hair and wonder if I would look</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">weird answering the door with a dish towel on my head. Probably.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I suck it up, put on my best Miss America smile and fling open the door.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Package for "Joe Schmoe, can you sign?" he says with a smirky little smile.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What! There's no "Joe Schmoe" here. Wrong address.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As I close the door and head for the shower, I think...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"This is what's known as <em>a bad hair day</em>."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So dear friends, I hope you are well coiffed and having a lovely day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-23767785549619434112011-03-07T10:24:00.000-08:002011-03-07T10:24:32.733-08:00A Prize Indeed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">A few weeks ago, I was so very fortunate to win Miss Sandy's giveaway over at <em><a href="http://quillcottage.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Quill Cottage</span></a></em>. I am always so inspired by this lovely soul that I was just thrilled beyond the moon to win a piece of her fabulous art. (Remember, she is the source of inspiration for my <em>"Where I Am From"</em> poem. <em><a href="http://susandegeneresstudio.blogspot.com/2011/02/where-i-am-from.html"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Here</span></a>.</em>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Well, as luck would have it - my prize arrived when I was sick, on strong medication and unfit for civil company. So, I am dreadfully late in acknowledging my gift and giving thanks. <em>Thank You, Miss Sandy!</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxfw7PsGEEwpzmZE7omFNBclZt-cWGoTn5CKqCpjz8J9qLeUZK1FhyphenhyphenvElIThbIVa8GOLZzW3eR1HWb-Y4Fj4wtnDJ0sVzW6VP5daFX57FBZkulGHKqY77QMxwlQAZKLdgM6zMYETnVSKPB/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxfw7PsGEEwpzmZE7omFNBclZt-cWGoTn5CKqCpjz8J9qLeUZK1FhyphenhyphenvElIThbIVa8GOLZzW3eR1HWb-Y4Fj4wtnDJ0sVzW6VP5daFX57FBZkulGHKqY77QMxwlQAZKLdgM6zMYETnVSKPB/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can see how beautifully wrapped everything was. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm one of those people who like to carefully unwrap packages</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and save the paper and ribbon. Especially when it's as lovely as this! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Even the tissue got smoothed out and folded for future use.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjD6ARkLBZ5jhl2PKO8Bqzo_AObeho4MIVkhSDA6rJULFjn_2MUF5bj-90unG62Yhyphenhyphenv0WU6oBK1NL3RQ8Yal2OEU7hP4-buA-3ps5v_rJT_ie5XbYl31mIkvVmGKJhcfRE_Z2y7n5nG7bb/s1600/DSC_0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjD6ARkLBZ5jhl2PKO8Bqzo_AObeho4MIVkhSDA6rJULFjn_2MUF5bj-90unG62Yhyphenhyphenv0WU6oBK1NL3RQ8Yal2OEU7hP4-buA-3ps5v_rJT_ie5XbYl31mIkvVmGKJhcfRE_Z2y7n5nG7bb/s400/DSC_0043.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Miss Sandy tucked in this sweet tag, that is now residing on</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the inspiration board in my sewing room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs02ROEK2Mqd7Csk2bWHi0Ns6eX_0kuOjGBhuOYpJSqKRQVXhr1zxUyR7Np6XvgGLZcHOYHLmE1qQ0a4fQgMbrQTz25na4qJbnxdc-QplO2vDijTByF_AUxTWvl-Nz84aPJBUyHHmmXnSn/s1600/DSC_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs02ROEK2Mqd7Csk2bWHi0Ns6eX_0kuOjGBhuOYpJSqKRQVXhr1zxUyR7Np6XvgGLZcHOYHLmE1qQ0a4fQgMbrQTz25na4qJbnxdc-QplO2vDijTByF_AUxTWvl-Nz84aPJBUyHHmmXnSn/s400/DSC_0041.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Aren't her business cards cute! A nest and a quill; they sum her</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">up perfectly. See why I didn't want to rip this package apart?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VMQbTjGsbhewJEinlUBbILurmUSvAfVz-gf5KADV-mPOvkk7LnNjKZ_K5aBS3QUEiJhqmNBhZdCDce-wJfAX5kPcRyEoDhHanR3KwPvS96rgAwGU_Nyh52qUge61xKbw1aT6cCCLoU85/s1600/DSC_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VMQbTjGsbhewJEinlUBbILurmUSvAfVz-gf5KADV-mPOvkk7LnNjKZ_K5aBS3QUEiJhqmNBhZdCDce-wJfAX5kPcRyEoDhHanR3KwPvS96rgAwGU_Nyh52qUge61xKbw1aT6cCCLoU85/s400/DSC_0056.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A beautiful nature journal:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">full of color and texture, words and inspiration.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmO1k5hCSRUsX6S0H1RqHMTUDZPvjQ6OKXZGDUvs9pOSt-dzUN95NjnJhks5peUs_pUhCVFdg4yrR_wNmpawdSoyM882y1buMSZRyWckieNSmoo_baeoEwwbg1pBtL-DYzwC3KinxXN00/s1600/DSC_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmO1k5hCSRUsX6S0H1RqHMTUDZPvjQ6OKXZGDUvs9pOSt-dzUN95NjnJhks5peUs_pUhCVFdg4yrR_wNmpawdSoyM882y1buMSZRyWckieNSmoo_baeoEwwbg1pBtL-DYzwC3KinxXN00/s400/DSC_0045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Words of wisdom </em>and the <em>beauty of nature</em>, from beginning to end.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpHl7WoUdlFXaM66PqZA84_vDiY5AZtmeplKfChoNSXjHI0_WF-s9llc_26JCDNQwgDBK7uF9w34GL6r3e2Ydtwu1mAonZSXnNRkJY3U59Z8Z5Dk0G4YyWSFFjCsBywP7o1BNb38NN66g/s1600/DSC_0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpHl7WoUdlFXaM66PqZA84_vDiY5AZtmeplKfChoNSXjHI0_WF-s9llc_26JCDNQwgDBK7uF9w34GL6r3e2Ydtwu1mAonZSXnNRkJY3U59Z8Z5Dk0G4YyWSFFjCsBywP7o1BNb38NN66g/s400/DSC_0049.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Feathers</em>, <em>buttons</em> and <em>fibers</em>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6i26oI5iSiFsNSg4N_Ti7TeqfCEMbMA32I8cXR3zFU1ZnSHnRpCqsW2sLkjAcfiCHE4Ak6FdiVYmuSr5QUKkaPaXetULemyN96wn2_AmnBAsL11Ssg18_xx-HRV_55fbtntEvOVoqVMiB/s1600/DSC_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6i26oI5iSiFsNSg4N_Ti7TeqfCEMbMA32I8cXR3zFU1ZnSHnRpCqsW2sLkjAcfiCHE4Ak6FdiVYmuSr5QUKkaPaXetULemyN96wn2_AmnBAsL11Ssg18_xx-HRV_55fbtntEvOVoqVMiB/s400/DSC_0061.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look closer...<em>beautiful words</em>. A Miss Sandy trademark.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08HI8Q6GqNfSo7QRr8A68M4quDLGRSC32Ji4rHw7gRqlLNQZ2RZrbiAJ4n8Pbc0aUcZ_W0SZ7ULYPffeYufxwkfa9kKuf_pxy36D65EI3fL49DRPQ2VDObCD3wnZW4OX56ylsUxJoYty6/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08HI8Q6GqNfSo7QRr8A68M4quDLGRSC32Ji4rHw7gRqlLNQZ2RZrbiAJ4n8Pbc0aUcZ_W0SZ7ULYPffeYufxwkfa9kKuf_pxy36D65EI3fL49DRPQ2VDObCD3wnZW4OX56ylsUxJoYty6/s400/DSC_0059.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Splashes of red</em>; my favorite accent color.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here in a feather...there in a leaf.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGhRTVY2Cpp8gduvTgpdIyWNZDIDOvBcGhtylSPy8NNnqdYt6Lmfw4sI7Smb3BMSGOISLlCvjJDJPju0wSkCoPZRXoqJULqGOOaeJgR38CKrJrNMKTqBNkBUS-mbthgQe3BNYocUtB30-D/s1600/DSC_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGhRTVY2Cpp8gduvTgpdIyWNZDIDOvBcGhtylSPy8NNnqdYt6Lmfw4sI7Smb3BMSGOISLlCvjJDJPju0wSkCoPZRXoqJULqGOOaeJgR38CKrJrNMKTqBNkBUS-mbthgQe3BNYocUtB30-D/s400/DSC_0050.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Fly</em>... My heart soared.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju5Rn5cIpTIY79XVmninDSFk-HaGR4bOuZC2MvmpyZLlxa7VprU_kyQx2yguYvmMIh4-87OSJDs5PCysx3fMDpbfzm7HX1hTp8xXs8_TYGtAiZkXp0fZ5GkHEumXYnfzQOh-AUqNJTmi8I/s1600/DSC_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju5Rn5cIpTIY79XVmninDSFk-HaGR4bOuZC2MvmpyZLlxa7VprU_kyQx2yguYvmMIh4-87OSJDs5PCysx3fMDpbfzm7HX1hTp8xXs8_TYGtAiZkXp0fZ5GkHEumXYnfzQOh-AUqNJTmi8I/s400/DSC_0055.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>The End...</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">No, time to start over and see everything I missed the first time through!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Thank You, Miss Sandy!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Thank You </em>too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To everyone who sent well wishes while I was struggling with health issues.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm feeling better and determined to move forward.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm back in the studio, so I'll have some cute spring characters to share soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Big hugs dear friends,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-62863745319814913332011-02-14T06:13:00.000-08:002011-02-14T06:14:28.346-08:00Happy Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFmRi0UnfuGcXAO_59ct6vbIqWFbb3-Zlr-kKt0RPwy_1ds8BWkW-xhxqwKtjgcyVMqxsr4a6y_3hMlpoMtG4YxxLd-bO7UxmXLDm8tMzHOCbDTsvc_ukQvtb3dnenp8W-GX-ANGuKWBEq/s1600/birds+valentine+-+tgf.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFmRi0UnfuGcXAO_59ct6vbIqWFbb3-Zlr-kKt0RPwy_1ds8BWkW-xhxqwKtjgcyVMqxsr4a6y_3hMlpoMtG4YxxLd-bO7UxmXLDm8tMzHOCbDTsvc_ukQvtb3dnenp8W-GX-ANGuKWBEq/s400/birds+valentine+-+tgf.png" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Valentine's Day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had it in my mind to have new posts for both SdG Studio and The Daily Bird,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but, much to my dismay, I'm sick again with more ear infections.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I need to get better, so I'm taking a break and only doing those things</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">that are most important - like taking my dad for his last surgery on</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wednesday. I'm hoping to be back in blogland by Thursday so I'll </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">see you then dear friends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wishing you a wonderful Valentine's Day full of love and inspiration.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-16175972595082266342011-02-08T15:04:00.000-08:002011-02-08T15:04:02.829-08:00Where I am From...The other day I was searching around for some inspiration and my search, as it often does, led me to Quill Cottage and Sandy Babb. As I explored her blog, going further and further back in time, I came across a post that struck me so deeply that I've found myself thinking about it since.<br />
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Her post is a poem, based on a writing exercise by <em><a href="http://georgeellalyon.com/where.html"><span style="color: #0c343d;">George Ella Lyon</span></a></em> and undertaken by other bloggers, including Sandy. You can read Sandy's poem <span style="color: #134f5c;"><em><a href="http://quillcottage.blogspot.com/2008/07/behind-post.html"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Here</span></a> </em></span><span style="color: black;">and follow her links to the blogs that were her original inspiration.</span><br />
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Here is my version: I Am From...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEU-2VqH0rzPD8hxjj2ZjmlU-Fzu8bE86k0C5liVzt0VbDlmXjXxOQcZC9vkn5QDWyRyVNmSRgrfsDSjzor3rDa3FFTBUZK1lE1bqnTNYCY_b3NM-srPgv-1OHoalzo8ifR8-aqGiwynil/s1600/DSCN1976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEU-2VqH0rzPD8hxjj2ZjmlU-Fzu8bE86k0C5liVzt0VbDlmXjXxOQcZC9vkn5QDWyRyVNmSRgrfsDSjzor3rDa3FFTBUZK1lE1bqnTNYCY_b3NM-srPgv-1OHoalzo8ifR8-aqGiwynil/s400/DSCN1976.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from tall trees and dark forests,</div><div align="center">sand dunes and big water.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from brown oak trees and acorns,</div><div align="center">and the blazing colors of sugar maples.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from winding rivers,</div><div align="center">and a wedding under autumn leaves.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilt2o7fC9D5fgjKC-zLwEIUESjEzpRY35i2-fjvLDXOoC3Qj10a4l_i_SxtlrDuc1RNtqYNv32S6tArUxW1yX7BR_LuNPPHUjrekpqWQp6qSkaevOEtkTQeI3mfDMw59xd1T6IJvSFQ84o/s1600/img012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilt2o7fC9D5fgjKC-zLwEIUESjEzpRY35i2-fjvLDXOoC3Qj10a4l_i_SxtlrDuc1RNtqYNv32S6tArUxW1yX7BR_LuNPPHUjrekpqWQp6qSkaevOEtkTQeI3mfDMw59xd1T6IJvSFQ84o/s400/img012.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br />
I'm from the east coast and the west coast,</div><div align="center">and the "mitten" in between.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I'm from smokestacks and haystacks,</div><div align="center">sidewalk hopscotch and dog walks on a country road.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRUXfG_p35vrxxKn57E-kqqrOiLzq8AaZyMhSnOzZ9GsgukK9_nA6HLvsKhR5q-tcyUcFe55GIV2JALTy8oeh2Q-eJsR6zNFj0JcurU-xigL4OIWkCJZy3QReWG2onKTGV88Z0WNal8F-/s1600/Image1-4_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRUXfG_p35vrxxKn57E-kqqrOiLzq8AaZyMhSnOzZ9GsgukK9_nA6HLvsKhR5q-tcyUcFe55GIV2JALTy8oeh2Q-eJsR6zNFj0JcurU-xigL4OIWkCJZy3QReWG2onKTGV88Z0WNal8F-/s400/Image1-4_edited-1.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center">I am from big straw hats and strings of perch,</div><div align="center">shallow streams and petosky stones. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from baseball broadcast from a transistor radio,</div><div align="center">and the roses in my grandfather's garden.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I'm from fields of wild daisies and grasshoppers,</div><div align="center">tall grass and fire flies.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpKC7ZRsZIcTMPn3pTTTPjnqwImkJSRnHNjZChyTRUMujYE3BKit8z6hsDk0bD8bry40AU9eggI_cn3G61scqzx87mzAajOPP5Cxmf8C9nc9CAn9qIBjMt3yMflFSNyNyGqOPqbTaW0iY/s1600/DSCN1546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpKC7ZRsZIcTMPn3pTTTPjnqwImkJSRnHNjZChyTRUMujYE3BKit8z6hsDk0bD8bry40AU9eggI_cn3G61scqzx87mzAajOPP5Cxmf8C9nc9CAn9qIBjMt3yMflFSNyNyGqOPqbTaW0iY/s400/DSCN1546.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from spotted dogs and long haired cats,</div><div align="center">herons at the pond and bats in the night.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I'm from stories read from books by my mother,</div><div align="center">and stories told at the kitchen table over coffee.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I am from ballet and disco,</div><div align="center">rock-n-roll and singing the blues.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFXTlU6A_X7J_um2XaHW99WnSfXjPsNXscSo0bjVf4Fg5KnRTntM7_tyHUjmTAZjz9bvX5jRmM1sRapT5U41ugH5eKpeRw4VOVRw-qJNB1xIkK2ssYuz2BNTR215V1t-eGr59JFFU1aGJ/s1600/img013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjFXTlU6A_X7J_um2XaHW99WnSfXjPsNXscSo0bjVf4Fg5KnRTntM7_tyHUjmTAZjz9bvX5jRmM1sRapT5U41ugH5eKpeRw4VOVRw-qJNB1xIkK2ssYuz2BNTR215V1t-eGr59JFFU1aGJ/s400/img013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div align="center">I am from old dogs and silly puppies,</div><div align="center">pansies and peonies in my garden.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from the sound of a sewing machine,</div><div align="center">and the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I'm from wrestling with brothers and braiding sister's hair,</div><div align="center">swimming lessons and life lessons.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8sJSsAtD1tsnsCh3NM1tsNiv0cz3O-c5YJzxcK4NfopW6Ax7Ei17AYKwygDzhXODhPCeptZr21EpAoWEJM4I60w9R6BeWVf2cO-U6nezVgxD-jCdBYk2oLQIOD2UPeb6rpXkd2IJk-Gp/s1600/img014_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8sJSsAtD1tsnsCh3NM1tsNiv0cz3O-c5YJzxcK4NfopW6Ax7Ei17AYKwygDzhXODhPCeptZr21EpAoWEJM4I60w9R6BeWVf2cO-U6nezVgxD-jCdBYk2oLQIOD2UPeb6rpXkd2IJk-Gp/s400/img014_edited-1.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I'm from Buster Brown shoes and Buster Brown hair,</div><div align="center">old movies late at night and rocking chairs.</div><div align="center"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div align="center">I am from needle and thread, paint and paper,</div><div align="center">and singing in the choir.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm from laundry hanging on the line,</div></div><div align="center">and necklaces hanging around my grandmother's neck.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKza2hy24Rskz2hKoLFbrnsAQ8-14vCE2O08pRcKjiZS8GNiHnt3L5eIjxrJeFyJf3rkunRo3IsBN63icdxFpBGt40x5uywUhjZ3vP2SdYTC2jpT7hgE5PD4Ol4hA0TM_lBjp7lZc9muLq/s1600/img015_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKza2hy24Rskz2hKoLFbrnsAQ8-14vCE2O08pRcKjiZS8GNiHnt3L5eIjxrJeFyJf3rkunRo3IsBN63icdxFpBGt40x5uywUhjZ3vP2SdYTC2jpT7hgE5PD4Ol4hA0TM_lBjp7lZc9muLq/s400/img015_edited-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div align="center">I'm from white gloves and Sunday school,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center">and "Midnight in Paris" perfume.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center">I am from the comfort of a roaring fire, </div><div align="center">and backyard picnics on warm summer days.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from Louisiana and Arkansas,</div><div align="center">and small towns in Canada.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from loss and opportunity,</div><div align="center">sadness and joy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0cN9QfZPI1Di707CH1X6cw045tG-mj-UvhL-gGbOSeIXXV5uEpLxzWp-1zhK2uq5-RWaDuANMFjFn24NocwLqJgBr9NMbQ9GdKtH57GSbzZeBy_C3OYqXG3gm6KEDCm7Y5U5VH8oUhwh/s1600/DSCN0892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht0cN9QfZPI1Di707CH1X6cw045tG-mj-UvhL-gGbOSeIXXV5uEpLxzWp-1zhK2uq5-RWaDuANMFjFn24NocwLqJgBr9NMbQ9GdKtH57GSbzZeBy_C3OYqXG3gm6KEDCm7Y5U5VH8oUhwh/s400/DSCN0892.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I am from the multitudes and solitude,</div><div align="center">the goal attained and dreams lost in the mist of time.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from the chosen path and the road less traveled by.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from love and deprivation,</div><div align="center">family and strangers that passed in the night.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I'm from going it alone and a journey together.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0MrYLhKDxrimjDsAxS4HzV-oU9l89YdsM1OBeSuTOZEQYWG8yw8rfbZ3KNiHWGmGvCZxFQ_pNKXwLwz8slFkJG3JIFC3JKfBMKMdRE-TRHwuCUzxK7DPXI5qUQm-yMXG3tWHfW5gQDve/s1600/Image1-3_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ0MrYLhKDxrimjDsAxS4HzV-oU9l89YdsM1OBeSuTOZEQYWG8yw8rfbZ3KNiHWGmGvCZxFQ_pNKXwLwz8slFkJG3JIFC3JKfBMKMdRE-TRHwuCUzxK7DPXI5qUQm-yMXG3tWHfW5gQDve/s400/Image1-3_edited-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from generations past, </div><div align="center">and babies that would not be.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I am from renewal</div><div align="center">and hope for the future.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-10999278754496150132011-02-03T18:11:00.000-08:002011-02-10T09:46:05.171-08:00Old Projects and New Posts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzGV7V1A9YTP2wWG3dwgT7YAsx_vuEVY8Fi6vvsYkWzXInx47y0RZfyvEAzZ10Idl6AHJM5ZMhQch6QfAlR2igO6uKvS7XFxi_v1gr1So9k2j66S3iPRPzlu3abO3jACosDMypBKWMWk6x/s1600/Mixed+Media.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzGV7V1A9YTP2wWG3dwgT7YAsx_vuEVY8Fi6vvsYkWzXInx47y0RZfyvEAzZ10Idl6AHJM5ZMhQch6QfAlR2igO6uKvS7XFxi_v1gr1So9k2j66S3iPRPzlu3abO3jACosDMypBKWMWk6x/s400/Mixed+Media.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You may remember that I was going to try my hand</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">at mixed media painting or collage.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I pulled all these things together and that was as far as I got.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well, I'm going to take another stab at it. Wish me luck!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you have time, hop over to <em><a href="http://thedailybirdjourney.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #0c343d;">The Daily Bird,</span></a> </em>there's a new post.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-75204018642551112272011-02-01T17:17:00.000-08:002011-02-01T19:04:26.954-08:00Blizzard Essentials and CardsWe're under a blizzard warning here, as are many others in several states from Oklahoma to the Atlantic. The snow is already falling and the wind is starting to howl. Living in the country we can lose our power at the drop of a hat, so today was spent in preparedness mode. <br />
<ul><li>Plenty of wood by the fireplace - check!</li>
<li>Water bottles and pitchers filled - check! </li>
<li>New batteries in the lanterns and matches set next to candles for easy access - check!</li>
<li>Stove top percalator for coffee - double check!</li>
<li><em>Very important</em> -- We have a well and septic system that don't work when we lose power, <em>sooo</em>...bath tub filled with water to flush the toilet - check! </li>
</ul>I guess we're ready. Oh wait...I almost forgot the most important part:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vh2ePF9_0irVHjEtPqV_3HdvAw9YeTkAACcBfRd9h7jSP7qGk4qq7QIHLIJIXVSDqoIBP7WEMj3JjpCHwvT_oVVrCii8vjbcb2nQCV43ozZ6hf6h_q2AmvBBisIHM-JgrjR4frewyKAm/s1600/Where+Women+Create.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vh2ePF9_0irVHjEtPqV_3HdvAw9YeTkAACcBfRd9h7jSP7qGk4qq7QIHLIJIXVSDqoIBP7WEMj3JjpCHwvT_oVVrCii8vjbcb2nQCV43ozZ6hf6h_q2AmvBBisIHM-JgrjR4frewyKAm/s400/Where+Women+Create.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This hopped into my shopping cart along with the milk and bread.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Why do we always buy milk and bread when they forecast bad weather,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">especially when what we REALLY need is <em>inspiration</em>?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I finally got my heart for the Heart from the Heart swap into the mail. My heart has been done for several days, but I just couldn't seem to get it in the mail. First, I missed the lobby hours at the P.O. on Saturday. Then, I drove right by without stopping yesterday while I was out. So today, I finally made it -- just in time for a blizzard to delay delivery. What can you do but laugh and hope it makes it on time?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are some cards I whipped up to include: <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<em>I scanned these so the images are terrible. Sorry! Next time I'll think to take photos instead.)</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQYMyWOnLtLHY7-ev5_gskrJMEb0eVZP_Ow2o0PxKQFSiLdp3E3ICk0K2xwfD1yq-LyvVEUJ4SpSx3nP7lz7SeDnLj-khCMdTRPoegfU78G2eX_b2Fq1um8_x8lCG5Q8rnePGIrjb_TCE/s1600/img006_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQYMyWOnLtLHY7-ev5_gskrJMEb0eVZP_Ow2o0PxKQFSiLdp3E3ICk0K2xwfD1yq-LyvVEUJ4SpSx3nP7lz7SeDnLj-khCMdTRPoegfU78G2eX_b2Fq1um8_x8lCG5Q8rnePGIrjb_TCE/s400/img006_edited-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got this image from <em>The Graphic Fairy. </em>Originally it had a</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">different caption. I erased it with Photoshop, then added my own</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">caption to send it to the recipient of my heart.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NYB6D8TDWML93Tx1el55a6aFTvZE9MqYJbb6MunwCSylVzkaFjv2GNtoSIUMZPUOSLe_-haOUI9JaQ3es08yMFLs22NfEvcgSphmR3r4ZT2KKC4KOKCeGfW478SxvJKNw0afSQ6jhSp3/s1600/Millinery+card+-+buttons+and++bows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3NYB6D8TDWML93Tx1el55a6aFTvZE9MqYJbb6MunwCSylVzkaFjv2GNtoSIUMZPUOSLe_-haOUI9JaQ3es08yMFLs22NfEvcgSphmR3r4ZT2KKC4KOKCeGfW478SxvJKNw0afSQ6jhSp3/s400/Millinery+card+-+buttons+and++bows.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm not sure where I got this millinery trade card.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I probably found it at <em>The Graphic Fairy</em>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I just love her blog!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyway, this card is for Deb, who is hosting the swap.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I tucked a little surprise into the box just for her. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'll be posting on the <em>The Daily Bird</em> tomorrow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you don't see a post, you'll know we're sitting in the dark and cold.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So keep your fingers crossed!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-28966770221644741332011-01-30T17:29:00.000-08:002011-01-30T17:50:49.545-08:003, 2, 1...Launch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The creative journey continues on the "<span style="color: #4c1130;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2055737"></a></span><em><a href="http://thedailybirdjourney.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #4c1130;">The Daily</span><span style="color: #0c343d;"> <span style="color: #4c1130;">Bird</span></span></a><span style="color: black;">." Join me as I explore the <em>Gifts and Flow </em>pathway.</span></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJtxpjmWsZagEfJkXITec6zqw3HzFqHI3L2rZ2jTWKYOlVihjeF5o2_eoddyf8zuyaM_GpfKQg7h6S5p0o2WOfd3maoS_gYgBcXf9ADDVMkVDS-nmgn-lXS9xqQQ_EHSZ32fqJQW0aBD-/s400/Image1-29.jpg" width="291" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Click <strong><a href="http://thedailybirdjourney.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #134f5c;">Here</span></a><span style="color: black;">.</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>or</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">this icon on my sidebar...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbXUPP4uI0tuiIKy1zdPpK9IU8IJ0bgzM7OFd7yGoBbTLRAq3BK5TywWdNJXoqFt_Zm2lmFRGAYnI3T-VJbcltFh4x-qJyy1VINyeR9IH7l7j90zn4v4YQqYMG4sP9I2_HpE93XkaqVrf/s1600/Daily+Bird+-+Side+Bar+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbXUPP4uI0tuiIKy1zdPpK9IU8IJ0bgzM7OFd7yGoBbTLRAq3BK5TywWdNJXoqFt_Zm2lmFRGAYnI3T-VJbcltFh4x-qJyy1VINyeR9IH7l7j90zn4v4YQqYMG4sP9I2_HpE93XkaqVrf/s200/Daily+Bird+-+Side+Bar+Image.jpg" width="141" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>I'll see you on the road less traveled...</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-90884776412385757142011-01-29T16:55:00.000-08:002011-01-29T16:55:35.158-08:00Oh! Heart of MineI thought I had a picture in my mind of what I wanted my heart, for the <em>Heart from the Heart </em>swap, to look like. I picked out my fabric, embroidery floss, and beads...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXOcHSamnEbygTnhaPaawSRHo5ZfrJmdzVsk35KkjLJVgM7x_rTRJfSoI5ksBmIjku433R34CA7AxNlMIUNh0ZF77RbtqcvjZb8RZ-dRUY626_CK65vc9VS17eQjz27tX0SOv0LyI5ZTB/s1600/DSC_0038a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXOcHSamnEbygTnhaPaawSRHo5ZfrJmdzVsk35KkjLJVgM7x_rTRJfSoI5ksBmIjku433R34CA7AxNlMIUNh0ZF77RbtqcvjZb8RZ-dRUY626_CK65vc9VS17eQjz27tX0SOv0LyI5ZTB/s400/DSC_0038a.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> ...then, somewhere between that point</div><div style="text-align: center;">and the finished product something happened.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The embroidery got OUT OF CONTROL!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was supposed to be simple outlines and some beads;</div><div style="text-align: center;">somehow it turned into full fledged crewel work and <em>lots</em> of beads.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is definitely one project that took on a life of its own.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Vision. Discipline. Restraint...Out the window.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSim5ipKbj_gPFy88SVgiqa_n7AJt4L5IKDsXD2HMsopgag0IxnIUlZnjDhbL9CREEAv5UU_LXzsD7aCfluzIYUKOwypKJgkOIQeBa2WgJFqJ-6RzO9ZOSWBSkD8OTKH0JISC9F7GUxhS/s1600/DSC_0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSim5ipKbj_gPFy88SVgiqa_n7AJt4L5IKDsXD2HMsopgag0IxnIUlZnjDhbL9CREEAv5UU_LXzsD7aCfluzIYUKOwypKJgkOIQeBa2WgJFqJ-6RzO9ZOSWBSkD8OTKH0JISC9F7GUxhS/s400/DSC_0035.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The heavy needlework on this side made the whole thing feel off kilter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What to do? What to do?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found the solution at the flea market last Sunday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrb1dxz2XUC6J8EsBDjXSZqXIRHTP6K_GhVIoef6xOwb4ClY1229jTKKNzCQ4-pmRpRAUErvT_XEqOxxsJySompsKYe4mhl9i-LNerEStZA1HyWaxbPxjxZG0K7cd9KstdJ8O5p_LFMpy/s1600/DSC_0036a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrb1dxz2XUC6J8EsBDjXSZqXIRHTP6K_GhVIoef6xOwb4ClY1229jTKKNzCQ4-pmRpRAUErvT_XEqOxxsJySompsKYe4mhl9i-LNerEStZA1HyWaxbPxjxZG0K7cd9KstdJ8O5p_LFMpy/s400/DSC_0036a.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A pretty silver butterfly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think it was originally a broach, but the pin back broke off.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A bar with a tiny hole in it made it easy to sew on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0LY4n2qjBEojqlqxNcCBq4bhAOkh5GXbfPqHmUJTNKcKQmhCF0199s1IUOuMYZXQBARnl3k-LwgTWsrMMs-UN_EGjTMVyVMeqjGNyxSP0V96wc84i27bvdQ1XJZWopAwpXmBL57NUVR_/s1600/DSC_0037a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn0LY4n2qjBEojqlqxNcCBq4bhAOkh5GXbfPqHmUJTNKcKQmhCF0199s1IUOuMYZXQBARnl3k-LwgTWsrMMs-UN_EGjTMVyVMeqjGNyxSP0V96wc84i27bvdQ1XJZWopAwpXmBL57NUVR_/s400/DSC_0037a.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So here is my heart, albeit slightly misshapen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Who knew that a heart loaded with beads would be hard to sew?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not me...but I do now!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know I promised I would have a post ready for my new blog,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">but I had some technical problems...<em>Technically</em>, I got lazy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll have it ready to post tomorrow...Really...I mean it this time...Don't believe me?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Come back tomorrow and see for yourself. LOL! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-35633324109217367632011-01-27T14:57:00.000-08:002011-01-27T15:03:45.877-08:00A Crown and A HeartToday was the PERFECT day to find a sweet package in the mail. It's snowy and cold, and I'm tired. So when the mail lady pulled in the driveway with a box for me, it put a little skip in my step. It was my giveaway prize from Amy at <span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong><a href="http://mittensathome.blogspot.com/">Mittens</a></strong></span><span style="color: #134f5c;">.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljnQ81UJimXpO2irRysWJo_kRWB1amcHS0H3fGTvl8jaFePzX1avnDE7aJugCKyH6i7lg9cKut2aOqLWoW_25k_Q_DwwGcLk0KnHAKtpwH6WW-GB9LHmslzpV_sd_vE73mpSZ6flvK-pm/s1600/DSC_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljnQ81UJimXpO2irRysWJo_kRWB1amcHS0H3fGTvl8jaFePzX1avnDE7aJugCKyH6i7lg9cKut2aOqLWoW_25k_Q_DwwGcLk0KnHAKtpwH6WW-GB9LHmslzpV_sd_vE73mpSZ6flvK-pm/s400/DSC_0013.JPG" style="cursor: move;" unselectable="on" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Everything was packaged in characteristic "<em>Mittens</em>" style.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sqmAXSVz9UMRmSMlObh-lww9UGHZCeoLxjAIT9YIbGFP9L1yK4E0pekOR3CggPjjNyee1cg3PFY4RwDjFszgDETQ5i5AMng7MDgNvu7uyLECw6Z-0JxJTuRZtX6WdaJZLeJNXWF5w9OV/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sqmAXSVz9UMRmSMlObh-lww9UGHZCeoLxjAIT9YIbGFP9L1yK4E0pekOR3CggPjjNyee1cg3PFY4RwDjFszgDETQ5i5AMng7MDgNvu7uyLECw6Z-0JxJTuRZtX6WdaJZLeJNXWF5w9OV/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I hated having to cut this wonderful envelope open,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but I just had to see what was inside.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is the sweetest little assemblage.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixj-PBeyYg9gfXosvq_u-gPGLcN2YVaY_VROKTAUbtK970md0kq2w50sF6IDpH-S4fiQY2YDlcaUzq6mbD_Th9pYgU6Dhu0mRC4ZH4qXLO0_Me2P8IbX3DsJkothmzhu60YvibV5f7_iam/s1600/DSC_0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixj-PBeyYg9gfXosvq_u-gPGLcN2YVaY_VROKTAUbtK970md0kq2w50sF6IDpH-S4fiQY2YDlcaUzq6mbD_Th9pYgU6Dhu0mRC4ZH4qXLO0_Me2P8IbX3DsJkothmzhu60YvibV5f7_iam/s400/DSC_0014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I chose a "C" for my crown...to remind me to <em>create!</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljM6lRknG6EIlb8djvmgetQ3yl340sQbhIi06FLsfH18AyhG1VLYb4CTT3tFC2pHdE1syFxXV0WPOYk_spSRF0tt6MVqq_P5Mp09Q6lfvsnD_UvTPUag5zDueV7D1pIGzA4CwDo_YlzzY/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljM6lRknG6EIlb8djvmgetQ3yl340sQbhIi06FLsfH18AyhG1VLYb4CTT3tFC2pHdE1syFxXV0WPOYk_spSRF0tt6MVqq_P5Mp09Q6lfvsnD_UvTPUag5zDueV7D1pIGzA4CwDo_YlzzY/s400/DSC_0016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know this little bird is a Thrush, but it looks like a Magpie </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">helped her build her nest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKYRbFNNoaX_x_n8-K_aR7g_Tup_9h6dIYnBtnQiO5kCQlv6kF3BjXbQgHo5KTdICfrFZbjX4jg1Ipb2IFy9ZHOWEygYi7b6d5UyF7rbfY4E2tfpbKmJ-Q1he68ONZFpVI_3SHCbLoo52/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEKYRbFNNoaX_x_n8-K_aR7g_Tup_9h6dIYnBtnQiO5kCQlv6kF3BjXbQgHo5KTdICfrFZbjX4jg1Ipb2IFy9ZHOWEygYi7b6d5UyF7rbfY4E2tfpbKmJ-Q1he68ONZFpVI_3SHCbLoo52/s400/DSC_0022.JPG" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lots of bits that they must have found in</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Amy's sewing basket.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5G3-CveLgPTE2j6QBfqesp09wjNqVB2TDhAuVhQMxlmCxxf_WQamYFlOSbwEjd8z9kkI9cQVBt5vYYA73uYNC1DAEaMzx4lyAlHR6wCcMCuMm7ZNcPUtC39Pou6MObRbl9Ufd0Fe4I2le/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5G3-CveLgPTE2j6QBfqesp09wjNqVB2TDhAuVhQMxlmCxxf_WQamYFlOSbwEjd8z9kkI9cQVBt5vYYA73uYNC1DAEaMzx4lyAlHR6wCcMCuMm7ZNcPUtC39Pou6MObRbl9Ufd0Fe4I2le/s400/DSC_0027.JPG" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A lace and button finial and a heart shaped mold</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">to hold all the nesting bits and pieces. And...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I LOVE the jewelry fob. It adds just the right touch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfufdrBxorIm1pYB6LPw0fU6qlv7GD69Gn-Nt0zO6AUNTGJF50cQEaoxOd1m8x_BukR6gYTMvP0CTrtNCOAVopOpaj_CKrmfOOZtVd8qER5aBK4Q6psKoAfWyYItA1cNvuTr8CFs6Nu5sX/s1600/DSC_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfufdrBxorIm1pYB6LPw0fU6qlv7GD69Gn-Nt0zO6AUNTGJF50cQEaoxOd1m8x_BukR6gYTMvP0CTrtNCOAVopOpaj_CKrmfOOZtVd8qER5aBK4Q6psKoAfWyYItA1cNvuTr8CFs6Nu5sX/s400/DSC_0029.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These dear tokens of friendship have already </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">found their place in my sewing room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They will serve to remind me to create what I love (Amy's best advice,) and</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> cherish the new friends I've made in the Land of Blog.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. I'll be launching my new blog <em><span style="color: #134f5c;">The Daily Bird</span> </em>tomorrow with a post about my mandala, Gifts & Flow pathway. I hope you'll join me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><img height="63" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljnQ81UJimXpO2irRysWJo_kRWB1amcHS0H3fGTvl8jaFePzX1avnDE7aJugCKyH6i7lg9cKut2aOqLWoW_25k_Q_DwwGcLk0KnHAKtpwH6WW-GB9LHmslzpV_sd_vE73mpSZ6flvK-pm/s400/DSC_0013.JPG" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 359px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 266px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" />Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-48483639565490736012011-01-23T13:54:00.000-08:002011-01-23T13:59:07.034-08:00Lace for Julia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Recently, Julia <span style="color: #e06666;">(</span><a href="http://vintagewithlaces.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #e06666;">Vintage with Laces</span></a><span style="color: #e06666;">)</span> created a tutorial just for me on making really lovely coffee filter roses. (<em> I posted about them <strong><a href="http://susandegeneresstudio.blogspot.com/2011/01/generosity-of-spirit.html"><span style="color: #134f5c;">here</span></a></strong></em>.) I haven't had a chance to try them for a number of reasons, including not having the right kind of coffee filters in my pantry. But they are high on my list.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Anyway, I know from experience that creating a tutorial takes time and effort. So I wanted to do something in return - not only to express my gratitude, but as a token of my friendship. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Thank you Julia...I hope you like the laces. I'll be taking them to the post office on Monday (tomorrow) although I have no idea how long it will take to get to you in Germany. Here's some photos so you know what's coming your way. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">If anyone reading this doesn't know about the GORGEOUS things Julia makes from bits of lace and other pretties, click <a href="http://vintagewithlaces.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><strong>HERE</strong></span></a> and go take a look. But be careful not to drool on your keyboard. LOL!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmkK3wlrxEeqr29klgbN_yzjVLexM_opCO68JHsN4LTWRvGN2gFaI1_ZvD9WeLlhZHxq9ab1sw-s03RRdKlSbaSPz0ak20bHrku4sQKoatCmvzSWRA05n_nxX-Nsa7RMVzGDNCCe87clE/s1600/DSC_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBmkK3wlrxEeqr29klgbN_yzjVLexM_opCO68JHsN4LTWRvGN2gFaI1_ZvD9WeLlhZHxq9ab1sw-s03RRdKlSbaSPz0ak20bHrku4sQKoatCmvzSWRA05n_nxX-Nsa7RMVzGDNCCe87clE/s400/DSC_0005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful lace remnants</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8m8L32sn6M9GP342orGtk9FXsbQBHHt9DlS3DFTPzMBVjqYXKz3sEpadt2UAX5VadpdLiY-ni5UPGhOE7BsdL_chSHPg51kXoiXlXMQt3wZbU4iWmyLnxDgii0vJY2hoboJDvnHTXuMC/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8m8L32sn6M9GP342orGtk9FXsbQBHHt9DlS3DFTPzMBVjqYXKz3sEpadt2UAX5VadpdLiY-ni5UPGhOE7BsdL_chSHPg51kXoiXlXMQt3wZbU4iWmyLnxDgii0vJY2hoboJDvnHTXuMC/s400/DSC_0010.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mother of Pearl and bone buttons.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjgJu71svoek_BWOeD2N5uHfr1Wyh6FiSt7fw-eaOtQYMMH2Ri-o28EGwuat-ZcUWpdg3Qipolo-GiYUuc4mcgAFSXX3SwTzBMCESwf8fgj_ysEGWSBmyNfPEf_eZPLzO_OQrAmjo2nIQ/s1600/DSC_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjgJu71svoek_BWOeD2N5uHfr1Wyh6FiSt7fw-eaOtQYMMH2Ri-o28EGwuat-ZcUWpdg3Qipolo-GiYUuc4mcgAFSXX3SwTzBMCESwf8fgj_ysEGWSBmyNfPEf_eZPLzO_OQrAmjo2nIQ/s400/DSC_0007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Vintage ribbon, a rhinestone buckle, leaves or feathers from</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">a vintage earring and a few more buttons.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMc3AwZcZEL3w2D1My0-4-NfDS3e5EwXlgRavp1ep7cJATTToCluPrFJGFJPiaz5sYTGbN83CEISKG_ODGMyKwjraFPXZv8jIEVBE2NEr06EM_vkYhkrQOEx-PolGXzvZO1OQ2r9RmYqk/s1600/DSC_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMc3AwZcZEL3w2D1My0-4-NfDS3e5EwXlgRavp1ep7cJATTToCluPrFJGFJPiaz5sYTGbN83CEISKG_ODGMyKwjraFPXZv8jIEVBE2NEr06EM_vkYhkrQOEx-PolGXzvZO1OQ2r9RmYqk/s400/DSC_0009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crocheted roses and leaves, printed ric-rac, and some lace odds and ends. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>As I was going through my stash and trying to decide what Julia might like, I realized just how much of this stuff I have hoarded. Also buttons, vintage fabric, etc., etc., etc. Not to mention vintage photos and paper...<br />
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So I'm in the process of opening an Etsy shop. I have my account set-up and a banner made but still have lots to do, so more on that later.<br />
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<div align="center">I can't wait to see what Julia does with her treasures.</div><div align="center">Thanks for stopping by and sharing them with me.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Hugs,</div><div align="center">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-49597125689953078272011-01-21T04:38:00.000-08:002011-01-21T05:21:01.727-08:00Being Cozy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4IPDio8f2O4bg5QjxwVbs_DOA-btYfadpBaHAnn9e1ObTyY32Ky5Svgqh0VW1w8o6LTHcS780GqXvxefdAcPcJAQgicK0yNGJY0lnFahU3YfoXbxnx8B03rJwGLVR0353mhQOlkPWYOh/s1600/DSC_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4IPDio8f2O4bg5QjxwVbs_DOA-btYfadpBaHAnn9e1ObTyY32Ky5Svgqh0VW1w8o6LTHcS780GqXvxefdAcPcJAQgicK0yNGJY0lnFahU3YfoXbxnx8B03rJwGLVR0353mhQOlkPWYOh/s400/DSC_0075.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My ear is finally feeling better and my Dad will be released from the hospital</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">this afternoon, so no more long treks into the neighboring town to</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">make sure he's behaving himself. (<em>I'm not joking about that!</em>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Most evenings lately you'd find me here...sitting in my favorite chair, and</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">working on my heart for the Heart from the Heart swap. I'm embellishing</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">my heart by following the print on the fabric with crewel embroidery </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(my version anyway, using floss instead of yarn) and beading.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm just about finished, one more evening should do it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Then I'll pull it off the hoop, cut away the excess fabric and sew it up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyEw3a2DwUgb4qlFhqWZl-h5NbfjPczhxPnOYtPKYW_4kHs7nRtQYrEaaAhWxJBLGJwS-a6Ob05nQxo4yEsU3QJY80RSwm46oXJ4MSOrXPR-fa-2ZuOcA1-CzKxqbkzRYbQ1XKucOITcQ/s1600/DSC_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyEw3a2DwUgb4qlFhqWZl-h5NbfjPczhxPnOYtPKYW_4kHs7nRtQYrEaaAhWxJBLGJwS-a6Ob05nQxo4yEsU3QJY80RSwm46oXJ4MSOrXPR-fa-2ZuOcA1-CzKxqbkzRYbQ1XKucOITcQ/s400/DSC_0078.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's supposed to be absolutely frigid this weekend, so I think</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'll put a fire in the fireplace, make a cup of tea and </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">settle in to finish my handwork.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYL5UzaITdXE6j2ye9mwggqKj30NDIVcxhhV7lgpVDsfR8Xsxzlv5IV6V5TzIQl7el4yolD8I86C3aYeagOlnFffK_SsdJxfqWmLY_NnpcGj_80qGvglBluEO-dEVbCC9XkPRzDogz_vS/s1600/DSC_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYL5UzaITdXE6j2ye9mwggqKj30NDIVcxhhV7lgpVDsfR8Xsxzlv5IV6V5TzIQl7el4yolD8I86C3aYeagOlnFffK_SsdJxfqWmLY_NnpcGj_80qGvglBluEO-dEVbCC9XkPRzDogz_vS/s400/DSC_0071.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Have a wonderful day dear friends...and be cozy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-27906147409231823782011-01-18T14:24:00.000-08:002011-01-18T14:24:02.277-08:00Note to Self...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-YVuAfox8qyw9OFZrKO_zO6_JmkqDGBRTZ5j4-K0k7rQG2L9sjctOf3-5Ui3uhb_0pL9QLL2ZDV5LL_btbSFasEHNbg6E8cftReaPMRsznDerTR7nk4XBLVC08IGmjv49Dmy7jP_W2IuU/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-YVuAfox8qyw9OFZrKO_zO6_JmkqDGBRTZ5j4-K0k7rQG2L9sjctOf3-5Ui3uhb_0pL9QLL2ZDV5LL_btbSFasEHNbg6E8cftReaPMRsznDerTR7nk4XBLVC08IGmjv49Dmy7jP_W2IuU/s400/DSC_0015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes we just need to remind ourselves that it's not how fast</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">we get to our destination, but rather it's the forward momentum that</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">is what's important. I've been away from my blog a couple of days --</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">mostly due to a bad ear infection (the third one in as many months.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But also, my Dad's in the hospital for knee replacement surgery</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and I'll be looking after him for a few days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, if you stop by and don't see a new post, please know that </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm thinking of you and that I'll be back soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-63824314977843457922011-01-13T07:21:00.000-08:002011-01-13T15:18:17.229-08:00A Generosity of Spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFat4b6gSK3gNVlE3AsiljzxwgWD0bX9hZGUuM2EbFTdkCtVeWmr2wI8KRK07zZCTGzse1EaNZcPFprm11pBeOwuSkT7iG3APagN-ITCJSoCC0BEx7BXu6tFrcdpYirTFu60H7yxEmRXnH/s1600/Image1-31_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFat4b6gSK3gNVlE3AsiljzxwgWD0bX9hZGUuM2EbFTdkCtVeWmr2wI8KRK07zZCTGzse1EaNZcPFprm11pBeOwuSkT7iG3APagN-ITCJSoCC0BEx7BXu6tFrcdpYirTFu60H7yxEmRXnH/s400/Image1-31_edited-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Inspiration</em>. <em>Community</em>. <em>Humor</em>. <em>Understanding</em> and <em>Support</em>. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I've found them all, tied up in a great big ribbon of <em>Generosity</em>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">First, my friend Amy announced a giveaway. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKf5HQRtOMOBsHC_T50_jSz8mKVJCKfCVVi5avzJLybAAq0TzoJ_nVzA0gSCkJfg6cKXLWzJrX2fzHG4tsVKfmhmm_MoNEWFGrigdV0um04i8p4OedCdzdhkpO3o4ukua8VJVBsi6AJdV/s1600/Mittens+Crown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKf5HQRtOMOBsHC_T50_jSz8mKVJCKfCVVi5avzJLybAAq0TzoJ_nVzA0gSCkJfg6cKXLWzJrX2fzHG4tsVKfmhmm_MoNEWFGrigdV0um04i8p4OedCdzdhkpO3o4ukua8VJVBsi6AJdV/s400/Mittens+Crown.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">She makes wonderful things, including this sweet</div><div style="text-align: center;">little crown, that reflect her love of</div><div style="text-align: center;">old, worn and much loved relics of everyday life,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> In doing so, Amy gives them new life and give us </div><div style="text-align: center;">the opportunity to see beauty through her eyes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I was lucky enough to win this giveaway, my first ever.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But, the generosity Amy embodies didn't stop with me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">She's announced that everyone who entered, all 35 of us,<br />
will receive a crown. Thirty-five little crowns = a whole lot of love!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZp5tRsBsdFj_QNnO2xug_-jTm_zvljDsctF25GzgobHDS5gazM36PFchxSMOnQ-TcHiBVailA7Jsq9u3ww-Qbi-Q1AGtVpwCK29UBS-HY0JabDsGstahYIjvyXTsNG06k4OJhMxfSIktV/s1600/Purpose+Pendant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZp5tRsBsdFj_QNnO2xug_-jTm_zvljDsctF25GzgobHDS5gazM36PFchxSMOnQ-TcHiBVailA7Jsq9u3ww-Qbi-Q1AGtVpwCK29UBS-HY0JabDsGstahYIjvyXTsNG06k4OJhMxfSIktV/s400/Purpose+Pendant.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>Next, my dear friend Lynn, posted about words<br />
that reflect our art, who we are and who we want to be.<br />
Words like... <em>Hope</em>, <em>Authentic</em>, <em>Renewal </em><span style="font-size: x-small;">(my word)</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
and <em>Playful </em>joined her word <em>Intention.</em><br />
<br />
But, Lynn didn't stop with simply giving us the opportunity to <br />
look inside ourselves and boil our aspirations down<br />
to a single word. She has generously offered one of her<br />
beautiful pendants in a giveaway.<br />
Click <strong><span style="color: #073763;"><a href="http://alittlebluesky.blogspot.com/2011/01/sharing-our-words.html">HERE</a> </span></strong>to visit Lynn, share your word and enter to win<br />
one of her stunning pendants -- <em>Purpose</em>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCrQAW-SjDDI1bzON3E0z96Ju7TSgRZyeGtikECa2VgJuoUAGGJLHpnZHgvRtAiCtT2MDtuWZv3JyhekPmGKGr-6ogVcT-5z81LYPzVrxLsgIeUY_4Tj2ZnzhI3ycT0nuFHUo4L1ss7Al/s1600/Itsy+Bits+giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCrQAW-SjDDI1bzON3E0z96Ju7TSgRZyeGtikECa2VgJuoUAGGJLHpnZHgvRtAiCtT2MDtuWZv3JyhekPmGKGr-6ogVcT-5z81LYPzVrxLsgIeUY_4Tj2ZnzhI3ycT0nuFHUo4L1ss7Al/s400/Itsy+Bits+giveaway.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Finally, Linda over at Itsy Bits and Pieces is celebrating 400 followers.<br />
But we really know that's code for 400 friends!<br />
<br />
Her warm and generous spirit draws us in, <br />
and her creativity keeps us coming back again and again.<br />
For Linda, its all about the little things in life. Fortunately for us, <br />
she wraps them up in a cozy blanket of warmth and friendship.<br />
Click <strong><a href="http://itsy-bits-and-pieces.blogspot.com/2011/01/time-for-giveaway.html"><span style="color: #073763;">HERE</span> </a></strong>to visit Linda and enter her giveaway.<br />
<br />
I'm so grateful for the love, wisdom and companionship<br />
that these women share everyday.<br />
<br />
And I can't wait to get my crown!<br />
Hugs,<br />
Susan<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I just <em>had</em> to come back and add one more incredible example of generosity to my post. Not long ago, I sent an email to Julia, her blog is called <a href="http://vintagewithlaces.blogspot.com/">Vintage with Laces</a><span style="color: black;">, to ask her if </span>she had ever considered doing a tutorial on how to make her fabulous coffee filter roses.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSrequ2cf15rWqg0K1u-KcuisUjX02WicJBk2wbgmPSxluYE3-TXntYbqE8AB6oscTvotdCQQUIbrvcaQbcFxbuufLi-HnMa5hY3VCQBtvrWY0wmYxsRqUm2EJ7I2n21ybQtoXtKx_HvY/s1600/Vintage+with+Laces+Rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSrequ2cf15rWqg0K1u-KcuisUjX02WicJBk2wbgmPSxluYE3-TXntYbqE8AB6oscTvotdCQQUIbrvcaQbcFxbuufLi-HnMa5hY3VCQBtvrWY0wmYxsRqUm2EJ7I2n21ybQtoXtKx_HvY/s400/Vintage+with+Laces+Rose.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Julia's work is extraordinary and I fell in love with these roses</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the minute I laid eyes them. Well, in no time at all -- this very morning,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">to be exact, I received an email with a tutorial attached.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The pictures and directions are so easy to follow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know I'll be making roses in no time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In fact, I think I might just make some today!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, Julia.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-1946934832197544072011-01-11T17:30:00.000-08:002011-01-11T17:33:52.929-08:00Heart and Meaning<em>Passion</em>. <em>Mission</em>. <em>Bliss</em>. Beautiful, powerful words, but they have the power to bring me to a quivering halt because they have been missing in my life lately. Tonight though, I'm feeling a little easier about them, about finding what they represent in my life and my art again. I've been thinking, with intention, about what is truly important to me.<br />
<br />
It seems like this should be easy, and in some ways it is. Family, friends, pets...yes, but also love, faith and spirituality, curiosity, a quick mind. And what about humor, empathy (it's what makes me cry at sad movies,) loyalty, civility and tenacity. You see, the list gets longer and longer because all of these things are deeply important to me.<br />
<br />
I was looking at Etsy yesterday and a piece of artwork caught my eye. I won't use it here because I don't have permission, but basically it addressed the notion that if you're creative - chances are you're interested in just about EVERYTHING. I know that's true for me. Unfortunately, <em>everything</em> is a lot to put in a pathway of my mandala.<br />
<br />
So, after a process of writing and circling keywords, words that kept showing up... and in addition to those concepts of family, faith, etc. listed above -- I have narrowed down a list of words to place in the <em>Heart and Meaning</em> pathway of my mandala.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">The most used word in my writing is <span style="font-size: large;">story </span>or <span style="font-size: large;">storytelling</span>.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Stories about <span style="font-size: large;">History</span><span style="font-size: small;">...</span></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB4r4dAKd7MClVZ-zWP7kq9AdQ2ElZCIrfOUguxIIeGQDi0W9Q1I4BQbcy0_ZoB1jUk-WW45TfVF_5ywSqEm9o7mPc-B7Chk_ggIA7ERZFPRynYoVWqK4i72zRHd0hPfDKwA6zo4eAGbQ7/s1600/img003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB4r4dAKd7MClVZ-zWP7kq9AdQ2ElZCIrfOUguxIIeGQDi0W9Q1I4BQbcy0_ZoB1jUk-WW45TfVF_5ywSqEm9o7mPc-B7Chk_ggIA7ERZFPRynYoVWqK4i72zRHd0hPfDKwA6zo4eAGbQ7/s400/img003.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div align="center">Our <span style="font-size: large;">Individual History</span>...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2ht7QD5gQ2tFt9r21M92gulJYhRofqvYBwBB2LrAmsFnwl8IiooR0V7BOiYh_TVKaIBlQYToz9lOECS88WIztdRntyV_hgPPrc5wIrqd85n54eKu0zAoZt6aVSwxXJ7bxEb2Uhi3OKqV/s1600/Image1-34_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2ht7QD5gQ2tFt9r21M92gulJYhRofqvYBwBB2LrAmsFnwl8IiooR0V7BOiYh_TVKaIBlQYToz9lOECS88WIztdRntyV_hgPPrc5wIrqd85n54eKu0zAoZt6aVSwxXJ7bxEb2Uhi3OKqV/s400/Image1-34_edited-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and <span style="font-size: large;">Shared History</span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2N2S7IKhZH4crAbwS4ZodAP-eL4fvdgprGeo2rKy5ARMLZnxZhXOhYDxGsJrO-G-yDhRMCsXR7G2qrh6OcJqzT76x7GZB1QPy815dgEuTdLv-vFtkeHrrIhkw3M07bYNGFdlopXoClObk/s1600/vintage+moths+-+graphics+fairy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2N2S7IKhZH4crAbwS4ZodAP-eL4fvdgprGeo2rKy5ARMLZnxZhXOhYDxGsJrO-G-yDhRMCsXR7G2qrh6OcJqzT76x7GZB1QPy815dgEuTdLv-vFtkeHrrIhkw3M07bYNGFdlopXoClObk/s400/vintage+moths+-+graphics+fairy.jpg" width="255" /></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Natural History</span>.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDnHHlvej90l2pnBP7lHVlMncp_TbRJ7DYwC8bRwmIceA4dU6pUzubS0A_NDKwYlftyi3zMGeI2C8qoj6pRmBLZZewbiqIBsMuoNr-y1QmqFbPHoEakxlm8OYg6ERn-GSDPsTMKtllfRY/s1600/DSCN1913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDnHHlvej90l2pnBP7lHVlMncp_TbRJ7DYwC8bRwmIceA4dU6pUzubS0A_NDKwYlftyi3zMGeI2C8qoj6pRmBLZZewbiqIBsMuoNr-y1QmqFbPHoEakxlm8OYg6ERn-GSDPsTMKtllfRY/s400/DSCN1913.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stories of <span style="font-size: large;">Ancient Places</span>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRi3MB1KSZMI9lqJGTgjRvpNzX0LUndGSCcaNFx6VhjUtcELxk8ojX6UfdJhYyWs8Brpkt_s3VzoofFKCsMnJ_mg2O9ZXqNw8hheipBvmfjIHfaavkjNwiJYhL4dLVVG1V4pnqSYJKm1-8/s1600/DSCN1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRi3MB1KSZMI9lqJGTgjRvpNzX0LUndGSCcaNFx6VhjUtcELxk8ojX6UfdJhYyWs8Brpkt_s3VzoofFKCsMnJ_mg2O9ZXqNw8hheipBvmfjIHfaavkjNwiJYhL4dLVVG1V4pnqSYJKm1-8/s400/DSCN1986.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAZLvcqlPo41UjSBjQl8-ahf9_47SpiwsEk7S_YLTXSf0VKuZiEbojWdMj7jiBXB3wpDcFiDuzS3tcsLtf7yEHkEjbqZL2VEkjg2yrGAThgQo5TBRakUW5aDpxmxgKJlmzG9swb0sBAXI/s1600/DSCN2010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAZLvcqlPo41UjSBjQl8-ahf9_47SpiwsEk7S_YLTXSf0VKuZiEbojWdMj7jiBXB3wpDcFiDuzS3tcsLtf7yEHkEjbqZL2VEkjg2yrGAThgQo5TBRakUW5aDpxmxgKJlmzG9swb0sBAXI/s400/DSCN2010.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and <span style="font-size: large;">How We Live</span> in them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIQoHsYpf03t2eFsCkpdScAiO7BRSfXZwS_iaYgCgxpXshIyIBASKz5BjVyg_LRuB9tw9pSGZu0ypBG-r19xsD9fYHKBGiLo2UUb6akLjqOm34GgbxsWiUfrrJq3IKI4YojTAVd7jDWqj/s1600/DSCN1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIQoHsYpf03t2eFsCkpdScAiO7BRSfXZwS_iaYgCgxpXshIyIBASKz5BjVyg_LRuB9tw9pSGZu0ypBG-r19xsD9fYHKBGiLo2UUb6akLjqOm34GgbxsWiUfrrJq3IKI4YojTAVd7jDWqj/s400/DSCN1035.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stories of <span style="font-size: large;">Rural Life</span> and <span style="font-size: large;">Architecture</span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinttxmS8DFoRqEpb38QT7R6ou8-zEoeFcIZ5ROtrR5mu_5BSF4SSQOjsILjrsxb4tCn1adQJMq_BJ8WYlVmAZbMJsMiqu2YCl877WA_3y3PCAIb1nBT54e4l4mJT7tkDCA1bPwi4z0f5nq/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinttxmS8DFoRqEpb38QT7R6ou8-zEoeFcIZ5ROtrR5mu_5BSF4SSQOjsILjrsxb4tCn1adQJMq_BJ8WYlVmAZbMJsMiqu2YCl877WA_3y3PCAIb1nBT54e4l4mJT7tkDCA1bPwi4z0f5nq/s320/DSC_0011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8y-A6z7RmpNOSYfnnm0Fm5gy1Fk282tGQc-yIEePZ316hdjlFKoDdMbLi6SqrbDKm7jnM47iAbGx0kQFFgv6sZCJpLy9_YLnq49cVAQzerOOunSy5EJ8tZIm22HaZ2gmg3oaYzc1ky4VW/s1600/Robin+with+Strawberry+-+TGF.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8y-A6z7RmpNOSYfnnm0Fm5gy1Fk282tGQc-yIEePZ316hdjlFKoDdMbLi6SqrbDKm7jnM47iAbGx0kQFFgv6sZCJpLy9_YLnq49cVAQzerOOunSy5EJ8tZIm22HaZ2gmg3oaYzc1ky4VW/s400/Robin+with+Strawberry+-+TGF.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stories of <span style="font-size: large;">Animals</span>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zZhvW-Rjbed3jj_-2pVfF8JEhQNy1-FPv5EZ2dHZ-Blf6_r2dX5D07yOxBTXBPG5T2qQHI8uHKUURkovvQka97eQxjscuhK_UmqffQN87VtBsA7YKkkF8TQZWiK_vA3QiCjNW07xk77i/s1600/BoyDog+in+the+field_edited-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zZhvW-Rjbed3jj_-2pVfF8JEhQNy1-FPv5EZ2dHZ-Blf6_r2dX5D07yOxBTXBPG5T2qQHI8uHKUURkovvQka97eQxjscuhK_UmqffQN87VtBsA7YKkkF8TQZWiK_vA3QiCjNW07xk77i/s400/BoyDog+in+the+field_edited-1.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2fYVK7JBBcFddi2UtadFcF1jf5TfMadOhG6xu7YXa73EcG0fRVqf0qJbysVrqUkf1yp6wst3jXtd8OycB14547V2Eo9wKxcuaUUqYLaasMkj4Mm5CtcjgatR7pcMYlTxhY7zrfQCsnhN/s1600/DSCN1283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2fYVK7JBBcFddi2UtadFcF1jf5TfMadOhG6xu7YXa73EcG0fRVqf0qJbysVrqUkf1yp6wst3jXtd8OycB14547V2Eo9wKxcuaUUqYLaasMkj4Mm5CtcjgatR7pcMYlTxhY7zrfQCsnhN/s400/DSCN1283.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div align="center"> ...and <span style="font-size: large;">Gardens</span>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qHQSixa03MRx4uzaIHv2ifKCjbmtdbmdwhxSAZpj-xDP_-kpJrxtSz4Lu4jsTDiHOZb9n9KgbQpLuMtLnqUSYoOwree4-lmYy9PbKVTpl-__7BgZE8jKElMuTjXtTTIOV-nOQqHj669l/s1600/DSCN1803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qHQSixa03MRx4uzaIHv2ifKCjbmtdbmdwhxSAZpj-xDP_-kpJrxtSz4Lu4jsTDiHOZb9n9KgbQpLuMtLnqUSYoOwree4-lmYy9PbKVTpl-__7BgZE8jKElMuTjXtTTIOV-nOQqHj669l/s400/DSCN1803.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Stories of how we <span style="font-size: large;">Work</span>...</div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4tIxbAL56nCQUprCYkuenkUFRLEciI6YKj091su7xw79RP6fnfVev3t0mnza1XECz5WQ9Z7AmoERIMtBJM7G7jJpq3kg_oUL0i70wLRMSv3-5rxvgja-6Onc0xnAdpYc0TaNneD5i3nG/s1600/threadgirl-clipart-graphicsfairy009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4tIxbAL56nCQUprCYkuenkUFRLEciI6YKj091su7xw79RP6fnfVev3t0mnza1XECz5WQ9Z7AmoERIMtBJM7G7jJpq3kg_oUL0i70wLRMSv3-5rxvgja-6Onc0xnAdpYc0TaNneD5i3nG/s400/threadgirl-clipart-graphicsfairy009.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-t_5GMATQUtuUnIP_3sxywo_YbOX6rErYD8kwTq1Q7Ve5YuKzPnV6CfszV8kKFiLNHGTuJv1X3Qc27VF9CPEbkucpgAAiWkyBpsjGD3k1_NIAQw8RlzXa42ruu6-DCKB3oaCKy9U4e9-y/s1600/beach+beauties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-t_5GMATQUtuUnIP_3sxywo_YbOX6rErYD8kwTq1Q7Ve5YuKzPnV6CfszV8kKFiLNHGTuJv1X3Qc27VF9CPEbkucpgAAiWkyBpsjGD3k1_NIAQw8RlzXa42ruu6-DCKB3oaCKy9U4e9-y/s400/beach+beauties.jpg" width="246" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...<span style="font-size: large;">Play</span><span style="font-size: small;">...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-qgWC05MLUu1G9Y7iJxES0-b6JLOFoM-cmvnpAu_-vL-UhuR3NhJKrJknsUt5zAdGH1XNDw6RCxrCtpp3XQp7ETJGN1BugKeBBWS14nuhQlovlwD0REsrxps0wVbtf2WkTK_r6DIOTA0/s1600/alphabet+T+toys+-+gf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-qgWC05MLUu1G9Y7iJxES0-b6JLOFoM-cmvnpAu_-vL-UhuR3NhJKrJknsUt5zAdGH1XNDw6RCxrCtpp3XQp7ETJGN1BugKeBBWS14nuhQlovlwD0REsrxps0wVbtf2WkTK_r6DIOTA0/s400/alphabet+T+toys+-+gf.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and <span style="font-size: large;">Learn</span><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These are my words of inspiration, passion and bliss; and they'll take their place in my mandala.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Where does your heart lie?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-36899947965889919642011-01-09T19:21:00.000-08:002011-01-09T19:55:53.116-08:00The Creative Journey Begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My creative journey is about discovering where my creative heart lies and trying to figure out whether I can build a <strong>real</strong> business out of the artwork I produce. I have been working in papier mache and air dried clay for few years, and had just started gaining some headway with gallery representation, a growing group of collectors, publication and the financial reward that comes from regular sales when the recession hit in 2008. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Over the course of the next few years, the gallery downsized and hosted fewer shows, I lost contact with some of my collectors (because they were really the gallery's clients, not mine), sales fell off, and financial rewards dwindled. On top of all that, 2010 was challenging on the home front and my desire to create art all but dried up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">All this has led me to try and look closely at what I really want to do. There is no doubt in my mind that I want to lead a creative life. I'm not sure I'd really know how to live otherwise. But, how that creativity gets expressed, what my art looks like going forward and whether I'll be able to contribute financially through my art are BIG questions. So I'm on a journey to find the answers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">One of the guidebooks I'm using to help me find my way is <em>The Creative Entrepreneur</em>, by Lisa Senora Beam, and one of the tools that she teaches you to use is the "Creative Entrepreneur Mandala." The mandala is an ancient symbol of "wholeness" and was used by psychologist, Carl Jung in "the process of <em>individuation</em>, or becoming a whole person<em>.</em>" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The mandala looks like a flower with eight petals. The petals represent four distinct pathways:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div></div><ul><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Heart and Meaning,</div></li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Gifts and Flow,</div></li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Skills and Tools, and </div></li>
<li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Value and Profitability</div></li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The center where everything intersects is the "sweet spot." Here is my mandala. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK8sn91Ta-yOCwDBqIT1dxOS1yb5EMFFmMAhexFnL-t5kueJh8q6NHHpycAmbV-UQDKd8VoFM8k6p7RU08mnLyiliijq_MEmT7fmVKzvFdqr_e00NcMzuMSH3ka8SWgSI8Wyqq3lzTPvkf/s1600/Creativity+Mandala.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK8sn91Ta-yOCwDBqIT1dxOS1yb5EMFFmMAhexFnL-t5kueJh8q6NHHpycAmbV-UQDKd8VoFM8k6p7RU08mnLyiliijq_MEmT7fmVKzvFdqr_e00NcMzuMSH3ka8SWgSI8Wyqq3lzTPvkf/s400/Creativity+Mandala.jpg" width="290" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">As I go forward, I'll be filling in each of these petals and refining each pathway. Hopefully, by the time I've finished this and the remaining exercises in Lisa's book - I'll have a clear understanding of what I want and how to put it in practice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I'll be posting about the work I'm doing on this blog, but I'm also in the process of setting up a second blog called, "The Daily Bird..." You can read about how I came up with this title <a href="http://susandegeneresstudio.blogspot.com/2010/12/take-each-new-day-bird-by-bird.html"><strong><span style="color: #073763;">HERE</span></strong></a><span style="color: black;"><strong>.</strong> <strong><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Daily Bird</span>...</span></strong> will give me a place that I can write in more depth about the questions I need to answer, without having to worry about long posts or fewer pretty pictures. Although there will be pictures, artwork, as I explore. You are invited to follow along if you're interested.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I'd love for you to join me on my journey. Make your own mandala, or just comment on what I'm doing. Better yet, if you're like me and want to build a business based on your artwork, pick up a copy of <em>The</em> <em>Creative Entrepreneur </em>and join me on the whole journey.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So good night dear friends. I'll see you on the road less traveled.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-1161865024403414562011-01-08T16:24:00.000-08:002011-01-08T16:27:23.793-08:00Best Friends ForeverI know I said I was going to post about my creative journey today, but somehow the day got away from me and now I'm too tired to think straight. So I hope you will come back tomorrow; and in the mean time, my two girls want to wish you a warm and cozy night.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oSMtrJS_nPGGvYjLx37ITq8vZrNUMBvlqfaxt8cT5co-0sFOnrtBSsc-XzNGYhGqScj0islrm1Cj4lm4EzCDaHnIIA1jdEbh7TNLKy6QRKuCrncu-R6SokG5gVhMPuzrS2d9xUIUBgzl/s1600/DSC_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0oSMtrJS_nPGGvYjLx37ITq8vZrNUMBvlqfaxt8cT5co-0sFOnrtBSsc-XzNGYhGqScj0islrm1Cj4lm4EzCDaHnIIA1jdEbh7TNLKy6QRKuCrncu-R6SokG5gVhMPuzrS2d9xUIUBgzl/s400/DSC_0038.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Holly-Berry (1 yr.) and Maddy May (10.5 yrs.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><em><strong>Best Friends Forever!</strong></em></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Hugs,</div><div align="center">Susan</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-53664728451571940692011-01-07T17:01:00.000-08:002011-01-07T17:01:58.416-08:00Ready, Set, Sew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It took most of the day yesterday, but my sewing stuff has been moved to the guest room. Everything is organized and ready for me start sewing. I have a whole list of projects...starting with my heart for the<em> Heart from the Heart Swap</em>, and ending (at least for now) with new curtains for my sewing room/guest room. Actually, we've always just called it the "blue room," you'll see why. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtid_fpjU1kFCPovPOoJpCngpaY5I79fPaal69YELOInf0CWyvuEdLMS5G-Myiv4a2tFchsGYbj3bLuYf6NILKz_f29QbVx5aUGopUyT7dhdI8ckVg3TgUm3lo9sHX0_75Fih5vg4xfWGT/s1600/Blue+Room+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtid_fpjU1kFCPovPOoJpCngpaY5I79fPaal69YELOInf0CWyvuEdLMS5G-Myiv4a2tFchsGYbj3bLuYf6NILKz_f29QbVx5aUGopUyT7dhdI8ckVg3TgUm3lo9sHX0_75Fih5vg4xfWGT/s400/Blue+Room+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The <em>Blue Room </em>is pretty small, about 10' x 11'.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These photos pretty much cover it - corner to corner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It doesn't really show well, but the paint is really pretty.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I started with a nice cream base,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">then ragged on a pretty blue that I thinned down with water.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next, I added glaze to a sage green and lightly ragged that on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Finally, I added some iridescent glaze to a light lavender,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and pounced it on with a scrunched up plastic dry cleaning bag.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrrtS0A3h0MAQC8Q9IU0gyYwwmweSBTgI1BiORmixdxr3ZT33p1WOIBfn1IJN68dC2NLCJJtlaXAzWFJKXxdsDIUqw1wVT-sM9oQPH2kb5adURJd4ldeKqh-y5l29tTIwh3-yEgvNxoo0_/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrrtS0A3h0MAQC8Q9IU0gyYwwmweSBTgI1BiORmixdxr3ZT33p1WOIBfn1IJN68dC2NLCJJtlaXAzWFJKXxdsDIUqw1wVT-sM9oQPH2kb5adURJd4ldeKqh-y5l29tTIwh3-yEgvNxoo0_/s400/DSC_0066.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is my sewing cabinet, all ready to go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love everything about this cabinet - except the color. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'll paint it one of these days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made a nice big inspiration board and can't wait to start filling it up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's actually two fabrics - a pretty green stripe </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">covered with a piece of antique gold lace.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The chair is very shabby chic, but not high enough to sit comfortably </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">at the sewing machine, so I'll have to drag my chair in </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">from the studio until I can replace it with something else.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIozyCfmy-Kv9NPVXFf8ZO1sL7PnB5O-PNbxI7Q6JQ_qtCTu9omx5akiim3zmfCceyk7ZKUcyF9Gc74yX3Ks28TFCqL85MMHv-N_Kpgl1LbB6c9u4Yrhvkk80kiLT44wFxxhq0BWDvZdJ/s1600/DSC_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAIozyCfmy-Kv9NPVXFf8ZO1sL7PnB5O-PNbxI7Q6JQ_qtCTu9omx5akiim3zmfCceyk7ZKUcyF9Gc74yX3Ks28TFCqL85MMHv-N_Kpgl1LbB6c9u4Yrhvkk80kiLT44wFxxhq0BWDvZdJ/s400/DSC_0068.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's a close-up, lots of cubbies.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBqFiuLhiN6iIjF-me8sqbVDINwLaYB5rGYx0AWr2nua_iTeuZA81BWXH9dkiFKQ3JXcflQRo1VrkLI6sx0WNiF3DMrYNsGgyoomJPFl4TsgC8s1gAQyDHDqkl5Q3kdiqGqYI5YZr2nRY/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBqFiuLhiN6iIjF-me8sqbVDINwLaYB5rGYx0AWr2nua_iTeuZA81BWXH9dkiFKQ3JXcflQRo1VrkLI6sx0WNiF3DMrYNsGgyoomJPFl4TsgC8s1gAQyDHDqkl5Q3kdiqGqYI5YZr2nRY/s400/DSC_0058.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are some of my vintage pin cushions and a baby doll that I saved at</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">an auction. I'm not really a doll gal, but I thought this would be really cute</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">with the top of her head made into a pin cushion.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The shelf is the arm frame from an antique settee. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My sweet hubby, aka Bad Rooster,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">added some support pieces so that it can be free standing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cvdr1ZmCoGyi5rxJySwBM6DSEO5J94NlS4yS6lHJ93D90gYTox-Fqrdb8orbrXbB27cJBf2QaF-d3_S58Z06XmjBe-N8dr3M0NtusnihJA59nxpD6_HOd-E8xAmb2OVWfTKA5cpLTIQG/s1600/DSC_0069_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cvdr1ZmCoGyi5rxJySwBM6DSEO5J94NlS4yS6lHJ93D90gYTox-Fqrdb8orbrXbB27cJBf2QaF-d3_S58Z06XmjBe-N8dr3M0NtusnihJA59nxpD6_HOd-E8xAmb2OVWfTKA5cpLTIQG/s400/DSC_0069_edited-1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Buttons on another cubby.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And last but not least, some close-up pics</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">of the ribbon storage shelf that I made over.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMqqNNuU2qU5SnjHFYSQVv8abZceQnR9jKTQ4NR9XFOKJVQEMT0LrI7Uqcd16mdw34oG2TZeeXPa5DoxD0DB_ko2er2VMOmz4qIyMiyVosD3ppl0egfEJkmuDmsMxhEFJxBw8-nmgW66I/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMqqNNuU2qU5SnjHFYSQVv8abZceQnR9jKTQ4NR9XFOKJVQEMT0LrI7Uqcd16mdw34oG2TZeeXPa5DoxD0DB_ko2er2VMOmz4qIyMiyVosD3ppl0egfEJkmuDmsMxhEFJxBw8-nmgW66I/s400/DSC_0053.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7ytCyMSbPsSMQ4m5VhPfVrCFmpOum1dS7hej7mrreLwwtEeE1r_0YBH9L7AvniScqZEc1VpFIMk7QNLsVGAfmRctj6JeH5u0zp054W8HM1NxR6NThXbQzOyXuEF8aSrLMZE6GsQIv4x-/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7ytCyMSbPsSMQ4m5VhPfVrCFmpOum1dS7hej7mrreLwwtEeE1r_0YBH9L7AvniScqZEc1VpFIMk7QNLsVGAfmRctj6JeH5u0zp054W8HM1NxR6NThXbQzOyXuEF8aSrLMZE6GsQIv4x-/s400/DSC_0060.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBajIxB1XTDJHg6KJ-sLkZZTlnryXI4S_m7lNNUiILvkEzu-C2FNZPnqT1uridL-N6UrPlD6lTvvs14rUdPxzMAA1RXIXv_HdYXAILNrpfwCLDfnD4OzH8iycxcytyH2z9YUiEoM_j5xR/s1600/DSC_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeBajIxB1XTDJHg6KJ-sLkZZTlnryXI4S_m7lNNUiILvkEzu-C2FNZPnqT1uridL-N6UrPlD6lTvvs14rUdPxzMAA1RXIXv_HdYXAILNrpfwCLDfnD4OzH8iycxcytyH2z9YUiEoM_j5xR/s400/DSC_0061.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkyL7QUlYTS0TDjgnhvO6BSt95AK7X91fOvDyeZy0BfrbDocwPHD9qaHIg6U3bH49q5F2nHB3OvGSMFtsuzyHqnmm1_ZyddA-QcFYgaM3ro34y0mXS1G3G3vCbTAlNBDw1UPS0IKWJoin/s1600/DSC_0064_edited-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkyL7QUlYTS0TDjgnhvO6BSt95AK7X91fOvDyeZy0BfrbDocwPHD9qaHIg6U3bH49q5F2nHB3OvGSMFtsuzyHqnmm1_ZyddA-QcFYgaM3ro34y0mXS1G3G3vCbTAlNBDw1UPS0IKWJoin/s400/DSC_0064_edited-1.JPG" width="252" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There you have it dear friends. I hope you enjoyed the tour,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and found a little inspiration.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tomorrow, I'll be posting about my creative journey,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and I hope you'll join me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4568140891669425455.post-38677759833010601032011-01-06T16:02:00.000-08:002011-01-06T16:04:30.525-08:00Have You Heard...<em><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"></span></em><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Amy at <a href="http://mittensathome.blogspot.com/2011/01/300-followers-giveaway.html">Mittens</a> is having a give away to celebrate 300 followers. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><em>Hooray!</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you'd like a chance to win, hop on over and say hello. </div><div style="text-align: center;">She's giving away one of these cute crowns.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I love them, don't you?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVabU24aH_zYDD8-WpjxQliv0shhDybMrVe8QKIumlUJk3HklMP1iFOWwSDQHG-Om-9UpcIYPdEb0tqCDX8whyreobPQmHDcTt6ykvu7VPg4PiuEmwaWF1-2J5V5jfe-MqY6OEsbUMTun/s1600/Mittens+Crown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVabU24aH_zYDD8-WpjxQliv0shhDybMrVe8QKIumlUJk3HklMP1iFOWwSDQHG-Om-9UpcIYPdEb0tqCDX8whyreobPQmHDcTt6ykvu7VPg4PiuEmwaWF1-2J5V5jfe-MqY6OEsbUMTun/s400/Mittens+Crown.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Good Luck! <em>But I hope I win.</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hugs,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Susan</div>Susan deGenereshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11211643849235497161noreply@blogger.com3