tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64952886061992545222024-03-14T04:52:49.332-04:00The Cottage on the CornerUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger288125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-77287684173969911472013-08-30T09:02:00.000-04:002013-08-30T09:02:20.757-04:00Hellooooo Once again, it's been a long time since I posted on the Cottage. I've truly not been idle, but busy busy. There's too much on my agenda to write about, but here's the jist...a wedding in October and a new business venture has me spinning. First the wedding...<br />
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My son proposed to the delightful young lady a top a mountain and she said YES! That was a year ago and now we're knee deep in wedding preparations. I'm putting my sewing skills, as limited as they are, to good use by making the ring bearer's pillow. It will be special and personal with a handkerchief, edged in tatted lace created by my son's great-grandmother. The hankie is folded into a triangle and carefully hand sewn to the satin pillow. Sweet pearl buttons from the blouse of another great-grandmother's wedding attire graces each corner. <br />
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Then there's the flowers. Yes, with help from my sister-in-law and others we're designing wedding arrangements from bride's bouquet to church decorations to centerpieces on the tables at the reception. And by the way...these are all fresh flower arrangements with a touch of dried hydrangeas and wheat. The Fall Harvest theme is coming together nicely. <br />
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The second biggie in my life is my new business venture. I've always found vast satisfaction in working in computer programs like Powerpoint and Photoshop Elements. Through blogging I discovered how much I enjoy creating digitally. I grabbed onto manipulating my photos with Picnik (now defunct), Picasa, and eventually Elements with gusto. I progressed to adding textures and created my own from time to time. Then one day I wanted unique side graphics and set about to create them and fell in love with digital art. Let's cut to the chase...I've opened an Etsy shop for my own digital scrap papers and embellishments that I gather into themed kits.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GGK6mb4aqH4/UiCWRHCiOAI/AAAAAAAAC8o/zbH3Jjc2J5M/s1600/Midnight-Dreary-Package.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GGK6mb4aqH4/UiCWRHCiOAI/AAAAAAAAC8o/zbH3Jjc2J5M/s400/Midnight-Dreary-Package.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Midnight Dreary Digital Kit by Teresa O @ Studio on the Corner</td></tr>
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I named my shop Studio on the Corner (yes I still live on a corner.)<br />
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I've learned so much over the past months and I continue to learn. I hope you'll join me on this journey from time to time. Here are the links to the shop and my new shop & blog: <br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/StudioontheCorner?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">Studio on the Corner Etsy Shop </a><br />
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<a href="http://studioonthecorner.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Studio on the Corner blog </a><br />
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If you enjoy scrapping, digitally or with paper, you might find something that appeals to you. If vintage and/or historical fascinates you, there may be a little something to interest you. <br />
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I hope each and every one that has stopped by The Cottage on the Corner is well and happy. Take care...<br />
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Teresa OUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-52365288165952245282013-02-23T09:59:00.000-05:002013-02-23T09:59:12.352-05:00Of Spammers, Scrivener, & StoryboardsWhen I was posting on a somewhat regular basis I rarely had problems with spammers leaving comments, but since I've been letting The Cottage stand idle, spamming has become a nuisance. I hate to make people jump through hoops just to leave a message, but on the other hand I dislike deleting comments. <br />
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The reason behind spamming is obvious...it's all about the numbers. The more people reached the greater the odds that someone will actually click on the spammer's link. I have to wonder though...how much time is wasted running from place to place leaving the silly comment that doesn't pertain to anything the blogger wrote? I doubt very much that the spammer gets much traffic from their ridiculous methods. <br />
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February is heaving its last long sigh as we enter the last week. Not alot happened in February. I downloaded a trial of Scrivener. Scrivener is a writing program that organizes and puts notes, storyboards, and everything needed in one place, but I'm finding it harder to learn than Photoshop Elements. Speaking of Elements here's a storyboard I created...<br />
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This storyboard gives a quick view of the protagonist's childhood home, a gardener's cottage that rests on the edge of an aristocrat's estate. Her father is the head gardener, a crusty man with vision and a strong sense of duty. I discovered the little cottage with floor plan in Ackermann's Repository, the August 1816 issue. If you're curious about this marvelous peek into the Regency era you can find the link <a href="http://archive.org/details/repositoryofarts216acke" target="_blank">here</a>. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-56760983205977767512013-02-02T02:38:00.000-05:002013-02-02T02:38:19.160-05:00Hello FebruaryHello February<br />
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I'm checking in for my monthly update of this, that and nothing much. My camera continues to sit idle while I write and write and write some more. Instead of taking snapshots with a camera I've chosen to create snapshots of life with words, at least for now. <br />
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Do I miss taking photos? Yes. <br />
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I took this lonely tree photo on February 3, 2012 & it's pretty much SOOC</div>
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Will I pick up my camera and begin snapping shots the way I have for the last few years? Not for the foreseeable future. <br />
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Such a Valentine photo! A gathering of an old book, <i>Sans Famille</i> written in French<i>, </i>a bit of ribbon roses on lace, and my mother's charming little heart bracelet. I like the way the heart caught the light. </div>
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Why? Because I've discovered that if I spread myself too thin nothing gets accomplished. There's not enough time in the day to be a photographer, an editor of photos, a writer, a researcher, a reader, a commenter, Mimi to a grandson, and still do all the things that need to be done on a daily basis.<br />
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This photo just makes me smile, the light shining through the petals gives it a softness and yep, this is another SOOC photo from February 2012</div>
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In the wee hours of a sleepless night I need a quiet occupation, so I thought I'd catch up with my favorite blogs and write a bit of a post. I sincerely wish all a lovely life every day. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-18028949324162503342013-01-01T20:24:00.002-05:002013-01-01T20:24:52.620-05:00Good bye & Hello<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">With a wave good-bye 2012 became twelve months of memories stashed away in files with names like <i>good times</i>, <i>remember when</i>, and <i>glad that's over</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The year began with imagine, a chosen word that lasted a month or two and ended with months of blog silence. No banners proclaiming The Cottage on the Corner as a stand out blog will fly in the winter sky. Nope...2012 went out in silence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">When all aspects of blogging become a chore it's time to take a break so in the midst of penning a whine, I simply stopped, clicked the X in the right hand corner and walked away. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Taking photos came to a screeching halt the September day I set my camera aside. I could go into a long list of reasons as to why I stopped photographing my world,but I'd rather not. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">With no picture taking going on, no posting to a blog, and frustration fueled by the loss of a friendship, I returned to writing. I can lose myself in research and words and so I did. I'm nearing the end of a first draft that needs to be edited and edited again before it's ready for submission, but submit it I will. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Hello 2013! There will be no resolutions this year or promises to be broken. Choosing a word to live by for the year is not in the stars, but if I were to choose a word it would be fearless, but I'm not going to. Nor am I committing to 365 photos or a year of challenges. Heck, I refuse to promise that I'll update The Cottage on the Corner in a consistent manner. In fact, I'm making no promises to anyone about anything and that includes myself. Geez it feels good to say that. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">What I am asking of 2013 is simply this...<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">May you be kind to me and all those who could use a soft place to land every once in awhile.</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-21656076796757404462012-12-20T13:57:00.002-05:002012-12-20T13:57:43.917-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-49571195492537055022012-09-20T08:19:00.000-04:002012-09-20T08:34:02.953-04:00Colors of September<div style="text-align: center;">
September is a season unto itself. Summer holds on to the hem of autumn with warmth of days, while fall sneaks into the year with chilled nights. </div>
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Leaves shaded with leopard and tiger like stripes warn of the advancing year. </div>
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I like them very much for their exotic coloring, but the red, orange, and golden hues of autumn await to be called for the grand show.</div>
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Soybean fields are turning from green to yellow to brown as temperatures linger in September modes of chill nights and warm days. </div>
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I love this time of year when apples redden, pumpkins turn orange, and golden corn stalks and bright bales of straw decorate suburban homes, but...<br />
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there are still pink zinnias in the garden. </div>
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Linking up with Rural Thursday today. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-42066650971709831702012-09-12T12:03:00.000-04:002012-09-12T12:03:03.137-04:00Inspiring Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-3335674269799756512012-09-11T11:55:00.000-04:002012-09-11T11:55:07.197-04:00Back to School SewingBack to school was an exciting time in the house where I grew up. School was a costly business for my parents with new clothes and shoes, school supplies, book fees, and lunches to pay for times six. The process began in August when the Fall Sears catalog showed up in the mail. My sister and I would carefully turn each page dreaming over the skirts and sweaters, the darling dresses, and adorable shoes. Usually Mom would place an order for new undies and socks and double kneed jeans and cords for the boys. We girls could pick an item or two, but the majority of our clothes came from my mom's talented sewing ability.<br />
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One day Mom would say, "It's time to get busy making you girls new school clothes." We'd march uptown to Hill's Dime store to browse through Butterick, McCalls, Simplicity, and Vogue pattern books searching for the latest styles. Then we'd slowly walk up and down the aisles of fabric to select just the right fabric for our dresses, skirts and blouses. To be honest, I was not always happy that my mom made my clothes. I wanted to dress in Bobby Brooks skirts and sweaters when I got older, even though Mom was an amazing seamstress. I realize now that the clothes she made were far better than anything purchased, but at the time all I saw were girls in name brand clothing and I was in no-name, homemade frocks. <br />
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I found these fabrics in a bin I have kept for years. The fabrics in the photo are the leftovers from dresses my mom made me in school. The red rooster print was a top that went over a yellow knit bodysuit that I wore with jeans when I was in high school. The striped knit became a shift type dress with sleeves and little round buttons at the neck. The tiny print was a dress that had a white bib, and the red corduroy was from my junior high cheerleading outfit. Yep, my mom made red and white outfits for the entire squad that year and continued sewing cheerleader outfits for me and any girls who needed a seamstress until my junior year in high school when the school began purchasing sweaters and skirts to pass down from one year to the next.<br />
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With love and talent, she made the dresses we three girls wore to the prom and wedding gowns for me and one of my sisters. Sewing was my mother's creative outlet. When we grew up, she turned to piecing blocks and then quilting tiniest of stitches to create masterpieces of color and texture that she gave to her children and grandchildren. <br />
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I still have the outfits my mom made for me when I was a cheerleader, but the dresses and skirts are long gone. She sewed for my daughter and those sweet dresses remain tucked into a container for safe keeping. I must photograph the quilts and dresses she made when my daughter was a toddler. Each one is a labor of love and a tangible way to hold her close to me, even now.<br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Blowing a kiss to the sky, Thank you Mom</span></b></div>
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I'm linking with <a href="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/thecafe/" target="_blank">Kim Klassen</a> for Texture Tuesday. I used Kim's If Only texture with multiply mode at 70% opacity. I added a running stitch brush by <a href="http://www.obsidiandawn.com/" target="_blank">Obsidian Dawn</a> along the right and bottom edges. </div>
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One more thing...yes I was a cheerleader through junior high and high school. Over the years cheerleaders have been given a bad rap...well it ain't always so. Not all of us were uppity, good in the back seat of a car, snobbish stuck ups with no brains. So laugh if you want, but I'm proud to say I was a cheerleader back in the day, so there! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-30444486733407609602012-09-10T09:35:00.000-04:002012-09-10T09:35:57.965-04:00Monday Morning PageOk...so I was reading my well-worn book, <i>The Artist's Way</i> by Julia Cameron and thinking that it's been a long time since I wrote morning pages. I thought about taking out pen and paper, as she strongly encourages, but instead I think I'll just write it out here. Please excuse bad grammar, misspelled words, and any salty language that may occur. This is all about free thought writing. Just getting it down. So here goes....<br />
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Monday, September 10th <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leon grapes at Stoney Ridge Winery photograph taken 9/9/2011</td></tr>
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What a glorious weekend of cool, early fall temps and sunshine. Much was accomplished. The pie safe is reorganized with all the 'stuff' that makes me smile like a little white cream pitcher, odds and end dishes, a few old tins, graniteware, and those pesky cookbooks that defy organization. It's a treasure trove of still lifes just waiting for me to photograph. The little stand that M sanded was painted on Saturday. It was ready to place in the kitchen by late afternoon. It's opened things up and provided much needed counter space in the tiny kitchen. Damn! I love an organized home! <br />
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M has joined the Obama campaign as a volunteer, putting in around 8 hours this weekend. I'm so proud of her! I don't tell her that often enough.<br />
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I'm such a doofus sometimes. I lost the cord thingie to my cell phone and it's out of juice. Anyone trying to call is going to get voice mail. SHEESH! The prospects of designing a blog for another person is on the horizon and now I'm without my phone. I wonder if it's all that smart to get rid of land lines. Oh well...too late now.<br />
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I wish I knew how to quiet the monkey on my back. It's constantly cautioning me to be careful, don't reach for the brass ring because I'll probably fall off trying to grasp it. Besides just who do I think I am? The editor in me just has to go back and check for mistakes...that's so not morning page kosher, but it's nagging me like crazy. Is that a bit o/c? I just can't help myself. <br />
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So there it is, a morning page snippet. Have you ever read <i>The Artist's Way</i> by Julia Cameron? How about morning pages, have you ever gotten up early, sat down with a cup of coffee and wrote all that was on your mind? I did it for years, but stopped a year or so ago. I'm not sure why I stopped...I just did. Maybe it's time to get back to it. It feels good to celebrate the small victories and get rid of the crap that pisses me off. Give it a try. You just never know how it might make you feel. Check out Julia's website <a href="http://here./">here.</a> Curious about morning pages? You can find morning page information <a href="http://juliacameronlive.com/2011/11/02/how-do-i-morning-pages/" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://juliacameronlive.com/2011/11/15/how-do-i-morning-pages-part-ii/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
What does the photo have to do with morning pages? Not a daggon thing...I just like it. <br />
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Create a wonderful day! <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-40193574411148159832012-09-07T09:14:00.000-04:002012-09-07T10:26:24.713-04:005 Fact Friday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm linking with <a href="http://www.reflectionofyou.org/royblog/" target="_blank">Kim Klassen & Xanthe over at Reflection of You</a> for {5 Fact Friday}. Wanna play along? Just follow the link.<br />
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<a href="http://kevinandamanda.com/fonts/fontsforpeas/" target="_blank">kevin & amanda</a> have a fun selection of free fonts like the one I used, Pea Amy Sue. Check them out! <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-39489714459525200232012-09-05T11:17:00.000-04:002012-09-06T12:44:39.777-04:00In the Country OOOOPS!!A quick update....after my snaffu yesterday I'm linking with Rural Thursday...today, a September Thursday. I'm finally caught up!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lrf-DMLUg20/UEjRsVUMjRI/AAAAAAAACrE/JyUyFutFiiQ/s1600/kn+gn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lrf-DMLUg20/UEjRsVUMjRI/AAAAAAAACrE/JyUyFutFiiQ/s1600/kn+gn.jpg" /></a></div>
I'm so darn delighted that I have zinnias blooming that I go out every day to see how they're coming along and how many I can pick.<br />
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Why not take a jaunt down country roads and see what other photographers are capturing...<br />
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<a border="0" href="http://aruraljournal.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6767202883_a67c982368_o.jpg" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_qXh2uob1s/UEdrh-Tb3YI/AAAAAAAACqg/lBwZ5YKthT8/s1600/country-collage-copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_qXh2uob1s/UEdrh-Tb3YI/AAAAAAAACqg/lBwZ5YKthT8/s1600/country-collage-copy.png" /></a></div>
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I'm joining up with Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday today! Won't you join me in a merry romp through wonderful photography? Just click below...<br />
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<a href="http://kimklassencafe.com/" mce_href="http://kimklassencafe.com" target="_blank"><img alt="kimklassencafe" mce_src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" /></a></center>
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Well I feel silly! Today is W E D N E S D A Y!!! I missed Texture Tuesday by a day. Well I'm still gonna visit...still gonna play as if today was a day ago, but I might also pretend like today is tomorrow and join Rural Thursday. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-60967461936493071492012-09-04T11:50:00.000-04:002012-09-04T11:50:32.384-04:00The Flowers of SeptemberThe calendar may say September, but it's still summer in the garden. The zinnias are blooming in bright and pale pinks with a few whites and oranges in the mix. A bouquet of flowers that includes Queen Anne's Lace adds just the right touch of sweet feminine. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkSnqDxOdbg/UEYdOar-viI/AAAAAAAACn4/G_KOa_QgCuk/s1600/zinnias-&-queen-anne-lace-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkSnqDxOdbg/UEYdOar-viI/AAAAAAAACn4/G_KOa_QgCuk/s1600/zinnias-&-queen-anne-lace-c.jpg" /></a></div>
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Orange is a loud color that seems to scream look at me, but oh how I love orange in the fall. Until the frost is on the pumpkin, making due with an orange zinnia works. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8J3ctUHPU3o/UEYf9PXUCJI/AAAAAAAACoY/SL87p1Fx1oI/s1600/orange-zinnia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8J3ctUHPU3o/UEYf9PXUCJI/AAAAAAAACoY/SL87p1Fx1oI/s1600/orange-zinnia.jpg" /></a></div>
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Then there's the whisper of white zinnias.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiFEMFQcq3I/UEYgdMCndCI/AAAAAAAACog/jOT41MAgNXA/s1600/white-zinnia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IiFEMFQcq3I/UEYgdMCndCI/AAAAAAAACog/jOT41MAgNXA/s1600/white-zinnia.jpg" /></a></div>
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A small rose blooms along side the garage. It was nearly choked out of existence last year by an overly vivacious trumpet vine, but its hearty nature won out. It was still blooming in late November. This summer it weathered the drought and is in a full flush of tiny blooms with a blush of color before opening. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_OJljSIo7xk/UEYhTwQx8DI/AAAAAAAACoo/i8WRAUrhVr8/s1600/blush-of-rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_OJljSIo7xk/UEYhTwQx8DI/AAAAAAAACoo/i8WRAUrhVr8/s1600/blush-of-rose.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love photographing flowers using the macro setting. The little rose above is only an inch or two across at the most; the buds even smaller. Through the wonder of technology we can capture every detail from the secret center to the blemishes on the outside petal. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zY9VWJ4hrXA/UEYh7FW1m0I/AAAAAAAACow/qlltgIIjp0U/s1600/leaf-&-rose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zY9VWJ4hrXA/UEYh7FW1m0I/AAAAAAAACow/qlltgIIjp0U/s1600/leaf-&-rose.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />And sometimes it's a different perspective that creates a delightful surprise. I totally ignored the law of thirds in every one of these photos and I don't care. <br />
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Break rules, have fun, and capture all that makes you smile, dance, sing, and sometimes weep. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-33773980123909724702012-08-29T08:25:00.001-04:002012-08-29T08:25:57.994-04:00Blog Design & FocusGreetings! Long time no see! Well I've been visiting once in a while and leaving comments here and there, but I admit I've been neglecting the blog world. I'm in the state of wishy-washy can't decide which way to go. I've made umpteen headers for The Cottage unsatisfied with any of them. Here's a sample:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ds98kyi8I6k/UD4HRrnbQgI/AAAAAAAACjo/nbBT6W_YeWI/s1600/Untitled-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ds98kyi8I6k/UD4HRrnbQgI/AAAAAAAACjo/nbBT6W_YeWI/s1600/Untitled-1.png" /></a></div>
I want a new look, but finding that perfect blend of imaginative graphics that convey the message I want is proving to be something of a conundrum.<br />
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So what I do I want The Cottage on the Corner to be? I've thought long and hard about that as I turn the corner toward something new. The Cottage started out as a garden blog, but morphed into being more about photography as I discovered the joy taking photos brings me. And by the way, this is not my first blog. I had a couple blogs on Wordpress before moving to Blogger. I've had blogs about writing, a couple blogs under pseudonyms, and personal blogs. I've blogged with another person and created a blog for a business. <br />
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Learning design and how to create unique blogs has been fun and frustrating, but the bottom line is I really enjoy it. BUT...I can't seem to come up with a cohesive idea for The Cottage on the Corner, which is why it's taking me so long. I wonder...could it be because The Cottage on the Corner lacks focus? Is it time to close the doors and head in a new direction all together? <br />
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I'd love to hear your thoughts on blogging and honest opinions about the headers up there. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-33323139193703756802012-08-15T13:56:00.002-04:002012-08-15T13:57:44.589-04:00A couple things are happening around here. It's so quiet that it's nearly distracting and I've been so busy on projects that there's been little time for posting at the Cottage. It's going to continue to be quiet at the Cottage on the Corner. When I said I was joining the August Break, it wasn't planned for it to be quite like this.<br />
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For the next few days and possibly a week or so, this little corner of the blogosphere will be undergoing some drastic changes. There may be days when you can't view the site at all....not to worry, it's just me designing and tweaking behind the scenes.<br />
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In the meantime check out this fun & crazy <a href="http://tailsofmissadventure.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>. <br />
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<i><b>Life isn't about finding yourself.</b><b> Life is about creating yourself.</b></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">~ George Bernard Shaw</span></span></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-2813994907110939182012-08-07T10:31:00.000-04:002012-08-07T10:31:46.700-04:00The Color of MorningHave you ever wished you could capture the colors of a morning? When the sun rises in pinks and fills the earth with light I am filled with wonder and long to hold on to the painting. Since I cannot hold the beauty in my hand I'll create it. I set to work in Elements 10 stacking four morning glory photos on top of each other, adding touches of delicate light, and finally a soft Kim Klassen texture.<br />
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Draw out the colors using The Coffee Shop's Color Bar. Add a bit of text and there it is...a pink sunrise in the depths of a morning glory. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rMe8wN8Fm5g/UCERebCGbSI/AAAAAAAACac/M83VIPtKAuk/s1600/Morning-Glory-Color-Bar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rMe8wN8Fm5g/UCERebCGbSI/AAAAAAAACac/M83VIPtKAuk/s640/Morning-Glory-Color-Bar.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: large;">Editing Story</span></div>
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<a href="http://kimklassencafe.com/" mce_href="http://kimklassencafe.com" target="_blank"><img alt="kimklassencafe" mce_src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://www.thecoffeeshopblog.com/"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8GrXJTBoDhE/T_i3Mw7vHUI/AAAAAAAAC-U/RRhraXOFrwc/s0/CoffeeShop+button+0712.jpg" /> </a> </center>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-16446497804825450042012-08-06T09:43:00.000-04:002012-08-06T09:43:11.121-04:00Random StuffHere we are six days into August and I'm making my first post. I took up the August Break banner challenging myself to take at least one photo every day and post it, but darn...life or rather a yard sale just got in the way. <br />
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Have you ever held a yard sale at your home? It's a ton of work, but a great way to purge your house and life of all those bits that accumulate while we're busy living. And then there are those who decide it's time to unload generations of stuff.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzDLHrD8Hko/UB_DVEq3OXI/AAAAAAAACZQ/i85BX9ddckk/s1600/yard-sale-stuff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzDLHrD8Hko/UB_DVEq3OXI/AAAAAAAACZQ/i85BX9ddckk/s640/yard-sale-stuff.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Check out the antique black stroller, yep that's a stroller called the The Junior Tourist. The metal blue stroller is a more recent model. One gentleman purchased both stollers. <br />
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We had two-legged and four-legged visitors. An adorable Westie stopped by with his lady to browse treasures of all kinds. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoYkZH0AF-Q/UB_GZrpSbeI/AAAAAAAACZs/whlnJ0m4ZLY/s1600/westie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hoYkZH0AF-Q/UB_GZrpSbeI/AAAAAAAACZs/whlnJ0m4ZLY/s640/westie.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
No matter how I tried I just couldn't get him to look at me. Isn't he cute? <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xct2_0C716A/UB_HXp2ZGzI/AAAAAAAACZ0/Rgic0kwp9YE/s1600/cheerios.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="602" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xct2_0C716A/UB_HXp2ZGzI/AAAAAAAACZ0/Rgic0kwp9YE/s640/cheerios.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Cheerios looks so much more delicious in a close-up photo than in person. Well...that takes me up to three photos.<br />
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Today I've promised myself some photo time and I'm going to keep that promise. Where ever you are, I hope you've been blessed with a glorious day that is as fine as it is here in nw Ohio this 70-something degrees morning. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WJQnXNuJWlA/UB_Jaxw9TuI/AAAAAAAACZ8/A6tJVuHptLw/s1600/jss_oohhlala_curly+ribbon+1+black.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="73" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WJQnXNuJWlA/UB_Jaxw9TuI/AAAAAAAACZ8/A6tJVuHptLw/s200/jss_oohhlala_curly+ribbon+1+black.png" width="200" /></a></div>
My photo editing consisted of a bit of cropping and punching up the color in Elements 10.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-25471323691181143542012-07-31T08:53:00.000-04:002012-07-31T08:54:57.955-04:00Texture Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwrdJyOEwCY/UBfUgT82ayI/AAAAAAAACXU/Mm3G158K4gc/s1600/welcome-to-Ohio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwrdJyOEwCY/UBfUgT82ayI/AAAAAAAACXU/Mm3G158K4gc/s640/welcome-to-Ohio.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Textures Used: KK's February Magic & The Ladder <br />
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Linking with Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday. Check out more textured photos at:<br />
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<a href="http://kimklassencafe.com/" mce_href="http://kimklassencafe.com" target="_blank"><img alt="kimklassencafe" mce_src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" /></a></center>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-87646230899670992072012-07-30T09:36:00.000-04:002012-07-30T09:36:35.176-04:00A Preview of AugustWow! What a weekend! It was three days of boxes, lost treasures found, dirt, dust, and finding the remains of unwanted visitors. Once again my daughter, ex-sister-in-law and friend, MJ, and I are joining forces for the <a href="http://www.127sale.com/" target="_blank">127 Corridor World's Longest Yard Sale</a>. We like to think we have a classy, well-organized sale full of cast off treasures, collectibles and even a few antiques. The yard sale extends from 5 miles north of Addison, Michigan, to Gadsden, Alabama. This has become such a big thing that HGTV heads out to tape sellers and shoppers alike. So there's my pitch for the yard sale that begins this Thursday, August 2 and ends Sunday, August 5th.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xtau0iJ5Ots/UBaJR7csHyI/AAAAAAAACWQ/1nQj_3RxKaQ/s1600/echinacea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="564" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xtau0iJ5Ots/UBaJR7csHyI/AAAAAAAACWQ/1nQj_3RxKaQ/s640/echinacea.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Sometimes a lady just has to try something new, hence the cut up photo of two coneflower blooms that fought the heat to survive and flourish as best it could. The flower was planted this spring with great hopes of producing a nice bushy plant, but now I'm just delighted it soldiered through. By the way...that is the color of the flowers and I just love it. <br />
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August Break!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8YfOQFEqLGA/UBaM4RbWwPI/AAAAAAAACWs/DJfXDH582pU/s1600/theaugustbreak2012_150_02_bluesky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8YfOQFEqLGA/UBaM4RbWwPI/AAAAAAAACWs/DJfXDH582pU/s400/theaugustbreak2012_150_02_bluesky.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yes I'm joining Susannah Conway again this year for The August Break. There will be a photo most days, but few if any words unless something spectacular occurs that I just can't keep to myself. Oh wait...something spectacular did happen over the weekend, but it's too soon to spill the beans. Wanna join the August Break? Hop over to <a href="http://www.susannahconway.com/the-august-break-2012/" target="_blank">Susannah's site</a> and check it out. <br />
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Whewwww.... busy weekend shaping up to be a busy week, but ya know busy is good. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-91663467193709401532012-07-26T15:42:00.000-04:002012-07-26T15:42:35.811-04:00At the Dragonfly Tea Cottage<div style="text-align: center;">
The sign on the front sidewalk says, "open" </div>
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so let' have lunch at the Dragonfly Tea Cottage in Sylvania, Ohio! </div>
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MJ had told me about this wonderful little oasis and I couldn't wait to visit. We came in through the backyard garden , passed the welcoming back porch with dragonfly decorated ceramic boots setting a quaint scene. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IiAKktNHF6A/UBFokAaeggI/AAAAAAAACVY/m0u26lzBCgc/s1600/boots-on-back-porch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="590" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IiAKktNHF6A/UBFokAaeggI/AAAAAAAACVY/m0u26lzBCgc/s640/boots-on-back-porch.jpg" width="640" /> </a></div>
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A vibrant sign, just inside the door, greeted us and the ladies smiled warmly creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jFQfNuppUKY/UBFpd82Dq7I/AAAAAAAACVg/SgzFSEAFm8A/s1600/dragonfly-sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jFQfNuppUKY/UBFpd82Dq7I/AAAAAAAACVg/SgzFSEAFm8A/s640/dragonfly-sign.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Everything inside the tea house is colorful, eclectic and artistic. From the charm of mismatched table settings to the whimsical salt & pepper shakers that adorn each table. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9wVhSnHwl-U/UBGZ2-zmwQI/AAAAAAAACVs/RT9wGZ0OLt0/s1600/table-settings-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9wVhSnHwl-U/UBGZ2-zmwQI/AAAAAAAACVs/RT9wGZ0OLt0/s640/table-settings-copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then....there's the tea and food. Hot temperatures outside require cool drinks indoors. We opted for flavored iced teas, refreshing and delicious. And the food....fresh, home made and wow!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kCF_DgBQBFs/UBGaaLy37hI/AAAAAAAACV0/S7ywZ0uHn9s/s1600/whats-on-the-menu.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kCF_DgBQBFs/UBGaaLy37hI/AAAAAAAACV0/S7ywZ0uHn9s/s640/whats-on-the-menu.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Someday I'm going back for dessert! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dragonfly Tea Cottage </span></div>
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<i>"We Love Tea Parties!" </i></div>
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<i>5723 N. Main Street</i></div>
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<i>Sylvania, Ohio, 43560</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">(419) 824-2153</span> </i></div>
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By the way...there's another whole floor waiting for little girls everywhere to experience their dream fairy tea party, but I'm saving that for another post. </div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-83426777475265707262012-07-24T10:45:00.001-04:002012-07-24T10:45:07.693-04:00Texture and SurprisesMJ took me to a wonderful little restaurant inside an old house, but before we had lunch at the Dragonfly Tea Cottage, we checked out what was hiding just beyond the street. A tiny historic village with buildings, plantings, and stories to tell. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtLD6yanElk/UA6tzI0goYI/AAAAAAAACUI/eR1gpXPfeGM/s1600/log-cabin-door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtLD6yanElk/UA6tzI0goYI/AAAAAAAACUI/eR1gpXPfeGM/s640/log-cabin-door.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
There were no guides to regale with facts and fables so we read the markers and peeked in windows...<br />
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and wondered what fried marbles tasted like. Anybody ever heard of fried and marbles? I'm guessing something like donut holes.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-injInmFYon0/UA6v6vlOA3I/AAAAAAAACUY/3d2b6FyaypM/s1600/beyond-the-bend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-injInmFYon0/UA6v6vlOA3I/AAAAAAAACUY/3d2b6FyaypM/s640/beyond-the-bend.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
What lay beyond the bend of the sidewalk?<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kVnr9QKwbo8/UA6wWwvZFHI/AAAAAAAACUg/8Fg_BecSODc/s1600/gazebo-in-yard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kVnr9QKwbo8/UA6wWwvZFHI/AAAAAAAACUg/8Fg_BecSODc/s640/gazebo-in-yard.jpg" width="626" /></a></div>
A garden of surprise and delight. Who knew Sylvania held a secret place right in the middle of town! Read more about it<a href="http://www.cityofsylvania.com/Default.aspx?nspace=CityOfSylvania.Home.DiscoverSylvania.SylvaniaHistory.HistoricalVillage.VisitOnline" target="_blank"> here</a>. <br />
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I used textures on all the photos in today's post, but the last one is my submission to Kim Klassen's Texture Tuesday.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xkv_XK9-DzY/UA6zIKAYSLI/AAAAAAAACU0/0RvMLFMXDN0/s1600/story-of-texture-7-22-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xkv_XK9-DzY/UA6zIKAYSLI/AAAAAAAACU0/0RvMLFMXDN0/s640/story-of-texture-7-22-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<center><a href="http://kimklassencafe.com/" mce_href="http://kimklassencafe.com" target="_blank"><img alt="kimklassencafe" mce_src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" src="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/storage/texture-tuesday/texturetuesdaysbutton.jpg" /></a></center>
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I also used textures from <a href="http://frenchkisstextures.com/" target="_blank">French Kiss</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/29683703@N02" target="_blank">Distressed Jewell</a>. </div>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><i style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We'll have tea tomorrow....I promise!</i> </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-90326336868254269562012-07-23T12:24:00.001-04:002012-07-23T12:24:58.829-04:00Priming the PumpIf you ever lived with a windmill outside your door you know what priming the pump means. For those of you who think I've gone off the deep end...let me explain. When a water pump dries up it must be primed or water added to get it flowing again. The creative process is much like a moaning old pump...when the well runs dry it must be refilled with experiences, sights, sounds, tastes, and touch. That's what my week in Toledo did for me...it replenished a drying up reservoir of imagination and creativity. I came home ready to embrace my daily life with a new attitude. <br />
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What did I do to prime my creative pump? MJ and I nibbled on lemon poppy seed and orange burst muffins while gabbing between cups of<a href="http://www.georgettes.org/store/index.html" target="_blank"> Georgette's coffee</a> in Maumee. Where's the photo you ask? I was so into the delicious muffin that I forgot to take out my camera. <br />
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Maumee is a suburb of Toledo that is ever so charming. It lacks the hoity-toity of Perrysburg which makes it even more quaint. There's a nostalgia about the buildings....<br />
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street lamps....<br />
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and a night depository at a defunct bank.<br />
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But what got my attention more than anything was a sign swinging above heads...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dVAI6M1w8KY/UA13zRSAhRI/AAAAAAAACTs/mMVelTZ1dPU/s1600/jester-pizzeria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dVAI6M1w8KY/UA13zRSAhRI/AAAAAAAACTs/mMVelTZ1dPU/s640/jester-pizzeria.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What a jovial fellow, but who wouldn't be smiling when the smell of fresh-made pizza comes wafting out the door.<br />
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I should have been inspired to photograph so much more. Maumee was a battle setting for the War of 1812. There are forts, landmarks, and old legends of Mad Anthony Wayne. A river runs through the town adding that touch of romance that makes me sigh. Another trip to Maumee is on my list of fall things to do and the next time I hope triple digits don't keep me from exploring the town as it should be.<br />
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As for the primed pump, every little bit helps and just sitting in a coffee shop with a Ten Thousand Villages shop in the back/front got the ball rolling. What do you do to prime the pump of creativity when it begins to dry? <br />
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Let's do tea tomorrow...shall we? <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-56345716312449529552012-07-13T19:36:00.001-04:002012-07-13T19:36:15.949-04:00Nature in the City GetawayIt's been a wild and crazy week and it's time for a little getaway. The little man and I are heading for the city. We'll be staying with a dear friend who I'll pal around with while the young ones attend a day camp full of nature and fun. Isn't it funny that we're going to the city for a nature camp? <br />
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Mr. Fuji will be accompanying me and I hope for some cooler mornings and evenings for some fun photo sessions. I'm looking forward to lots of girl talk, eating out as often as possible, and the change of scenery. <br />
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Have a wonderful weekend and pray for rain!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-81752455647102224682012-07-05T10:09:00.002-04:002012-07-05T10:30:11.645-04:00In a Garden too HotMoving last year was a wonderful decision. I love the yard, the trees, and the possibilities. A vegetable garden was planted and the cottage garden behind the house is in its infancy, but the too early spring and the too hot summer with too little rain heightens the challenges.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VcNSkP4m5s/T_WZl8D5yhI/AAAAAAAACRk/z3Qe1pqpjdk/s1600/garden-pumpkin-end.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VcNSkP4m5s/T_WZl8D5yhI/AAAAAAAACRk/z3Qe1pqpjdk/s640/garden-pumpkin-end.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Watering every other day keeps plants moving along, but it's certainly not going to be a banner year.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0ILlsmtKFc/T_WdIsgTA8I/AAAAAAAACR0/hGHWuLzzqgU/s1600/green-bean-blossoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="566" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X0ILlsmtKFc/T_WdIsgTA8I/AAAAAAAACR0/hGHWuLzzqgU/s640/green-bean-blossoms.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Each day patrolling the garden for striped cucumber beetles and sap-sucking stink bugs requires a jar with a bit of gasoline in the bottom and using the lid to scrape the nasty pests into the jar. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L5u6RXT8T1c/T_WbWLAIoCI/AAAAAAAACRs/gdNReMvqEuM/s1600/garden-w-marigolds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L5u6RXT8T1c/T_WbWLAIoCI/AAAAAAAACRs/gdNReMvqEuM/s640/garden-w-marigolds.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next year marigolds will play a bigger role in companion planting in an attempt to never use chemicals in the vegetable garden. <br />
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If there's an upside to drought conditions it's the lack of mosquitoes, but then not many folks want to sit outside when the thermometer reaches triple digits. How's the weather where you are? Too dry, too hot, or just right? <br />
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To all the good souls affected by the drought, fires, and dangerous storms that have been forcing many to live without power and evacuate their homes...my thoughts are with you. <br />
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I'm linking with Rural Thursday today. Mosey on over to A Rural Journal and see what's going on down country roads.<br />
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<center><a border="0" href="http://aruraljournal.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6767202883_a67c982368_o.jpg" /></a></center>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-68794726455347758792012-07-03T22:01:00.001-04:002012-07-03T22:01:59.507-04:00It's the Fourth of July!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495288606199254522.post-55707429608917089762012-06-29T11:35:00.001-04:002012-06-29T11:35:50.894-04:00Grungy, Grumpy Grouchy PostWell...here it is. I'm not linking with anyone, not joining any challenges, in fact, I'm not even sure where this solitary post will lead me, but just for sh--s and giggles I'm free thinking with my fingers. Aww heck let's throw a photo in here....<br />
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Color rocks my world. While I like the soft sheer looks so popular right now, I always come back to color. That's one of the joys of summer...color. It's everywhere you look in nature, whether contrived or au naturel. Unfortunately beige has taken over green grass as the drought continues with temperatures in the high 90s today. Yuck! Have I ever mentioned...I really don't like hot. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4XYTOfJZnU/T-2ySmaR7aI/AAAAAAAACP4/QvV5safMutQ/s1600/marigold-and-spider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o4XYTOfJZnU/T-2ySmaR7aI/AAAAAAAACP4/QvV5safMutQ/s640/marigold-and-spider.jpg" width="616" /></a></div>
I do like hot colors in the summer like bright marigold yellow and ditch lily orange. The vegetable garden includes companion plants like marigolds. When I took aim I didn't see the little spider clinging to a petal; he blends in so well. Once on the computer there he was on a search and devour mission. I hope he scarfed up a bunch of aphids. <br />
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I'm in a mood today...ya know? One of those crabby-but-I-don't-know why moods. <br />
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The pink zinnia with bokeh in the background should make me smile, but I'm not satisfied with it and not liking the glow around the petals. That's what I get for highlighting edges. <br />
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Let's try one more of the same flower...<br />
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Hmmm.... the little zinnia just isn't doing it for me, but then perhaps nothing will...<br />
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Here's a tidbit about moi. People who have seen my writing/printing think I'm left-handed because I write with a slight lean to the left, kinda like the font above. I use this font because it's the closest I've found to my own handwriting. Oh and I only write cursive when I sign my name, the rest of the time I print with a slight lean to the left mixed with straight up and down. Fonts rule!<br />
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Doncha love a post that has no rhyme or reason? Well...That's it for today. Have a wonderful weekend and for those of you in the grip of a heat wave....stay cool!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5