Art, Books, Tea...Cindy Adkins' Artful Living

Book Review: Hippie Boy: A Girl's Story

2013-05-06T14:20:00.001-04:00

WINNER: 2012 eFestival of Words Best of Independent Book Awards (General Non-Fiction)

What would you do if your stepfather pinned you down and tried to cast Satan out of you? For thirteen-year-old Ingrid, the answer is simple: RUN.

Ingrid Ricks grew up in a dysfunctional Mormon family with an absent, freewheeling dad and an intensely religious mother who was desperate to ensure her family's eternal salvation. For years she yearned to escape the suffocating religion and poverty at home by joining her dad on the road as tool-selling vagabond. When her parents divorce and her mother marries Earl--a cruel authoritarian who exploits his Church-ordained priesthood powers to oppress her family--she finally gets her wish. At age thirteen, Ingrid begins spending her summers hustling tools throughout the Midwest with her dad and his slimy, revolving sales crew. He becomes her lifeline and escape from Earl. But when her dad is arrested, she learns the lesson that will change her life: she can't look to others to save her; she has to save herself.

I've been on a reading streak lately. It seems to come and go in spells - and quite honestly, as much as I love reading - a book must grab me at the beginning, or I tend to lose interest. Hippie Boy: A Girl's Story did just that! I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Ingrid Ricks (her first novel!) Described as a "coming-of-age story," it made me think about my own 13-year-old self growing up in a middle-class Midwest family, with our own share of ups and downs and difficult times. There's something about that time of life - in between childhood and young adulthood - that is so full of bittersweet memories, yearning and angst. Ms. Ricks captures it perfectly! Although the main character in this book is a 13-year-old girl, this is a very grown-up story - make no mistake about it. It's about the often complicated relationships between fathers and daughters, mothers and daughters and siblings. It's about a dysfunctional family, yes, but how many among us can say there wasn't some sort of dysfunction in our own family growing up? The older I get, the more I realize that almost every family has their own dysfunction in one form or another - and it doesn't mean they don't love each other and stand strong in their support of each other when the chips are down.

I loved the descriptions in this book of life on the road with Ingrid and her father and the joys and disappointments and heartache that ensues. This is an authentic story and I loved it and could (and probably will) read it again. A great summer read!

About the Author:

Ingrid Ricks started her career as a journalist, spent fifteen years as a marketing/PR consultant and is now embracing her writing/mentoring dream full-time. She is the author of Hippie Boy: A Girl's Story, a coming-of-age memoir; FOCUS, a memoir about her journey with the blinding degenerative eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa; and A Little Book of Mormon (and Not So Mormon) Stories, a collection of short autobiographical stories.

Ingrid lives in Seattle with her husband and two daughters. When not writing, working with students, or leading seminars focused on embracing the moment, she can be found accompanying her family to soccer games, ice hockey games, or the beach. She also enjoys hanging out at her neighborhood jazz club or alternating between her two favorite coffee shops. For more information, visit ingridricks.com.

To order Hippie Boy: A Girl's Story from Amazon.com, click below:

Spring Photos

2013-04-29T18:30:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,
I've been absent from blogging and I have no excuse! The days seem to go by so fast and I've had "spring fever." April has been a crazy-weather month, but I think it's finally settling down. Now, the trees have tiny new green leaves and the daffodils and tulips have popped open. I love this time of year! I've started a new daily walking routine. The county just opened a new nature preserve near where I live and today was the fourth day in a row I walked there! Yay!! It has a 3/4 mile, easy trail - which is perfect for me right now. I got lazy over the winter, and I do mean lazy!! So, I'm starting slow....but at least it's a start, right? Walking in the woods is one of my all-time favorite things to do. So, here are some photos from my walk.

Totem pole at the entrance to the nature preserve. It was hand-carved and hand-painted by a local resident.

Beautiful moss on the tree stump

Woodland Wildflowers

I have so many projects lined up (aside from work); gardening, some furniture I want to paint (I'm going to try using chalk paint, I've heard so much about it,) spring cleaning, and hopefully a short trip to West Virginia with my sister next month. What have you all been up to lately?

Happy Spring,

Cindy

Spring in Ohio

2013-04-09T19:57:00.000-04:00

Spring has finally arrived! Yes, I think we've turned the corner. I feel bad for those living out west (6 inches of snow in Denver...with more to come??!) Yikes...and I thought spring was late arriving in Ohio. Here's a photo of my crocus in full bloom:

...and another sure sign of spring - Rudy sitting in the open window!

I also want to share some photos of a little log cabin I found on one of my recent country drives. When I need to clear my head...or if I'm bored...or sometimes for no reason at all, except I'm in the mood to get out and explore, I take drives in the country. I remember, as a child, the whole family would pile in the car for a Sunday drive. Back then, it was a form of entertainment. How many of you did that as children, as well?

You'll never know what you might find. I have no information about this cabin. It sits right beside the highway, just outside the tiny town of Melmore. Little house on the prairie? I'd love to know who lived there. Both of my parents lived in log houses for a short time when they were children...but that's a story for another day.

I hope you're all having a good week!

Until next time,

Cindy

Cake Art

2013-03-27T22:33:00.000-04:00

Occasionally, I like to share photos of amazing cakes I find on Pinterest or facebook. They fascinate me...and it's hard to believe some of them are actually edible! My sister is a wonderful cook and makes special cakes for her children and grandchildren's birthdays, and I've helped her with the decorating a couple of times. I think I could really get into it...I should consider taking a cake decorating class. Hummm...yet another hobby??

These cakes are perfect for spring and Easter. I've given credit to the artist for the ones where it was listed with the photo , but unfortunately some didn't say.

A pretty peacock

Ready for a spring holiday? How about a luggage cake by Charm City Cakes

This one is by Arty Cakes in the UK...she makes incredible cakes with all buttercream frosting! She can be found on facebook under Arti Cakes.

Easter bonnet cake by Fifi's Cakes

How about a tea party?

Here's one for the fashionista in your life! I really wonder how they made that shoe? Or is it a real shoe??

Last, but not least, I think these two are my favorites - they're so, so pretty and spring-like!

Love the colors and the pansies!!

Are you a cake artist? If so, please share!

Sweet Dreams!

Cindy

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound
and
Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

Fiestaware Tablescape

2013-03-23T01:01:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,
I've recently started a new hobby...tablescaping! First of all, just let me say, I'm not the type of person who entertains a lot, nor am I even a very good cook. I mean...I CAN cook, when I'm in the mood and set my mind to it, but most days, given the chance, I'd much rather eat out than cook for myself Anyway, I'm getting off track. In spite of this, I've always loved pretty dishes and admire the creativity of the beautiful tablescaping I've seen on so many others' blogs. It really is a work of art. So, I decided to try my hand at it. I'm calling these tablescapes "Table for One, Please" (because I live alone...other than my 3 cats, and they're really much more interested in WHAT'S in their dish than the dish itself.) So, without further ado...here's my Easter tablescape. Be kind - remember it's my first real attempt.

I've also recently started collecting Fiestaware dishes, so this is a fun way to show them off! Finding myself in need of new dishware, I suddenly felt very drawn to Fiesta...addicted is more like it! I love all the different colors, and the artist in me loves playing with color combinations. This setting features the colors rose, (retired) yellow, seamist green and periwinkle blue. I've had the cute, little clay pot napkin rings for years and the white ironstone pitcher is a recent Goodwill find.

I also love that Fiestaware is made in the U.S.A. by the Homer Laughlin China Co. - more specifically in West Virginia, the state where my father was from and my ancestral roots run deep. This is another "quick" place setting I put together, using the same seamist green, yellow and rose dishes.

Happy Weekend, everyone.

Until next time,

Cindy

I'm linking this to:
Pink Saturday on How Sweet the Sound
Seasonal Sundays on The Tablescaper
What's It Wednesday on Ivy and Elephants
Show and Tell Friday on My Romantic Home.

The First Day of Spring

2013-03-20T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,

It's March 20th - the first day of spring...and I'm back! I missed my blog...and all of you! Looking out the window here in Ohio, it's a typical early spring day - that is, the sun is shining and it's snowing! That's no lie! It's downright cold outside - you would never know it's spring. But, that's how it is in the Midwest - unpredictable.

When I decided to take a winter hiatus from blogging, it was for two reasons: I was in need of a computer break, and I was feeling a little confused about why I was blogging in the first place. Has that ever happened to you? I'm a writer, so I'm at my computer most days, but between work, blogging, and staying in touch on facebook and email...I was beginning to feel like I had no life outside the internet. I had to find that "balance."

I knew very little about blogging when I started. I knew I wanted it to be another creative outlet for me, and I wanted to share some of the things I love with others...so that's how "art, books, tea" came into being. After a while, though, I began to feel frustrated because I had so much more to say and show that had nothing to do with "art, books or tea" so I had to take a step back to figure it all out. What I decided is this: I don't have to change what I've started - just expand on it. So, I'm back with a new look to my blog and in addition to art, books, and tea - you may find a little of anything here! I love travel and taking day trips...drives in the country...photography...creating pretty tablescapes...and of course, let's not forget my cats :) They have their own blog, now, as many of you already know - but I'm sure I'll be talking about them here, as well. In addition, I hope to share some of the challenges and joys of being an "aging Baby Boomer" in an ever-changing world.

I hope you'll find something here that inspires you, or makes you smile, or that you can relate to in some way. Right now, I'm anxiously awaiting the weather to catch up with the calendar - which says today is the first day of spring! Come on, blue skies and sunshine, I'm ready for lilacs, daffodils and tulips!!!

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking with How Sweet the Sound for Pink Saturday

Cats on Tuesday - Hello from Kitties!

2013-01-29T20:45:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

Rudy here. Mom still taking break from blogging...but I sneak on computer to say hello and hope everyone having pawsome time in winter! I have to hurry before Mom catches me on her laptop! MOL!!

We are all good and well. Sammy still sleeping and eating most of the time. See for yourself:

Buster still trying to be the boss of me. That's okay. He is a furry old cat, so I let him have his way most of time - except when he try to bite my ears! He think he is boss of Mom, too. One night she get ready to go to bed and find him on her pillow! He give her a look that say "don't you dare move me!"

We have crazy weather. First it was freezing...now it's warm like summer. Here is picture of me sitting in window box...am I a pretty flower?? MOL!

Well, that is all the news from here. I better go now before I get caught on computer! I hear Mom say she is missing blogging already, so she will return, friends. Don't worry. In meantime, me and Buster and Sam will keep you updated on everything. Stay safe and warm!

Until next time,

Rudy

Winter Hiatus

2013-01-15T19:07:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

I'm taking a hiatus from blogging. My job, and other things, must take priority in my life right now, so blogging will have to wait until I have more free time. I truly value all the friendships I've made and thank you so much for following and your interest in my blog. I may return in the spring - perhaps with a new focus for what I wish to share and write about. But, for now, enjoy your winter, everyone, and stay warm (for those who live in cold climates, anyway!) I'm going to try to still visit all of your blogs, as time allows. For those of you who are on facebook, I invite you to join my page there: CindyAdkinsArt. I'll still be updating there and occasionally have giveaways of my art, etc. Would love to see you there! That link can be found HERE.

Until next time,

Cindy, Buster, Rudy and Sam

Cats on Tuesday - Buster's New Year's Resolutions

2013-01-07T17:09:00.005-05:00

Hello Everyone,

Buster here. Is time for me to blog again for our special day, Cats on Tuesday. So much has happen in past month, I don't know where to begin. First, this is old photo of me, Buster, on computer. Mom say Blogger not working right and won't let us post new picshures.

First thing happen was Christmas. This is time when humans bring trees inside house, which I think is very good idea. Only bad thing is we can't climb on it because after they bring tree inside - they hang shiny balls all over it!! So, when Mom not looking, I take a swipe at balls...MOL! Is also time for presents and good food. Mom went to Aunt's house and come home with fresh roast beef and roast turkey for us! Personally, this my favorite part of Christmas.

Next thing happen was big snow come out of sky and cover everything!! OMC! Was so cold outside, would freeze my whiskers! Here is my paw print in snow on patio. Thank COD Blogger let us download this photo, so I can show you proof of snow!

After big snow, come New Year. This part I don't really understand, but Mom say is brand new year and time for new beginnings. All I know is humans act crazy for one night, make lots of noise and kiss each other. Mom also say is time for new year resolutions, which is when you tell something you aren't going to do anymore, but most likely will never keep promise. So, this is my resolution: I promise to stop biting Rudy's ears and not eat so much roast turkey. Now, friends, you think I will keep my resolution? tee...hee...hee

Until next time,

Buster

2013

2012-12-31T23:54:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!!!

May Peace and Joy Reign in 2013!

With Love and Purrs for a Pawsome New Year from

Sam, Buster, Rudy and Mom Cindy

Snow Pictures and Billy Jacobs Art

2012-12-30T20:06:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,
After several days of snow, ice and grey skies, the sun made an appearance this afternoon! So, even though it was cold with a biting wind, I put on my coat, hat and gloves and took these photos around my neighborhood. The cute little barn and fence is at a church just down the road from me. Winter isn't my favorite season, I admit, but I do try to see the beauty of it all, and the snow certainly is beautiful on the evergreens and tree branches and everything.

I also want to share a few winter-themed paintings by one of my favorite artists, American Folk Artist, Billy Jacobs. Mr. Jacobs is a self-taught artist from Navarre, Ohio, where he has an art gallery/antiques shop. His paintings can also be found in galleries and specialty shops all over the country, as well as online. I think he captures the look and feeling of the midwest countryside better than any artist I've seen. He doesn't just paint winter scenes...but all seasons of the year! You can see more of his paintings at Summer Snow Gallery HERE or by visiting Billy Jacobs Art Gallery on facebook HERE. Enjoy!

Wishing everyone a safe and happy New Year's Eve and best wishes for a healthy, prosperous 2013 filled with joy!

Until next time,

Cindy

This weekend over on How Sweet the Sound, Beverly is hosting her weekly Pink Saturday with posts featuring snow and snowmen. So, even though I'm late posting, I want to share these on her blog and also at The Tablescaper for Seasonal Sundays.

Happy Christmas to All!

2012-12-21T16:53:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,
Winter has arrived in Northwest Ohio - not only officially on the calendar, but it's cold and blowing and snowing...it was even snowing sideways for a while! I have a few photos to share with you. Last Saturday was our annual "Girls Christmas Party," hosted by my niece, Lola. (Except this year, we "allowed" the husbands to come also, if they wanted :) Had a great time...enjoyed so much yummy food and lots of laughs over our White Elephant gifts! My sister, Paula, and I made this cupcake wreath for the party - a collaborative effort! The hardest part ended up being transporting it there, as my niece lives about an hour away. We learned something - next time we need to come up with something to stick to the bottoms of the cupcake "cups" to hold them in place!

Lola's home is always decorated so beautifully for the holidays! Her theme colors were blue and silver this year. Here's a photo of her tree.

I loved her use of these old canning jars for decorating. Notice the frame behind them filled with old black and white family photos. Such a great idea! I want to do this, too.

The next day, I helped Paula decorate her Christmas tree. It was done in traditional gold and red, which I think are my all time favorite colors for a tree.

I confess, I haven't done a lot of decorating in my own home. My only tree this year is a vintage ceramic one I recently found at Goodwill for $5.00! I'd been wanting one for a while and couldn't belive when I walked in and there it stood - in perfect condition, except for a few missing lights. My Mom had one of these back in the 70s when they were so popular. I did a little research on ebay and Etsy after I bought it, and some of them are going for between $70 and $100!! I had no idea! So, I got quite a deal on it!

However you may celebrate, I hope you have happy holidays! From my heart to yours, I truly wish you all the peace and love that this season represents.

Until next time,

Cindy

Buster, Rudy and Sam, too!

I'm linking to the following blog parties:

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

In Memoriam

2012-12-16T18:45:00.000-05:00

Sandy Hook Elementary

Newtown, Connecticut

December 14, 2012

"The only way to end a culture of violence is to proactively create a culture of peace."

Marianne Williamson

All Aboard the Birthday Cake!

2012-12-10T20:20:00.001-05:00

I've been neglecting my blog lately. I have no good excuse, other than being busy with work and family, and the holiday season, of course. But, we're all busy this time of year, and, honestly, I don't have it nearly as bad as some. So, I promise to try to do better in the future, and I'm looking forward to getting caught up on all your blogs and seeing what you've been up to lately!

Now, I want to share this awesome train cake, made by my sister, Paula, for her grandson Jaxson's 2nd birthday. I've shared some of her cakes in the past...and I think this is one of her best! Everyone loved it, especially Jaxson!

And here is the birthday boy himself, my great-nephew, Jaxson Lee! He is absolutely adorable!!

I bought an early Christmas present for myself - a new sketch pad, colored pencils and oil pastels. I've been in the mood to sketch and draw, rather than paint. As many of you know, drawing is entirely different from painting, and I haven't done a lot of it...not since I was a teenager, so we'll see where this takes me.

I truly hope you've all been well and enjoying your December so far.

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to the following blog parties:
Passion Parade at Petites Passions

Daydreamer

2012-11-29T12:13:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone,
Today I'm sharing an oil painting I did several years ago called "Daydreamer." This is not a self-portrait, but I DO enjoy daydreaming. I always have since I was a young girl. I can sit for hours looking out the window at the sky, clouds, trees and birds

This image is available on mugs and note cards in my Zazzle store, and today only, all mugs are 40 percent off! Everything else on Zazzle.com is 15 percent off. My recent snowmen paintings are also available on mugs, as are several of my other paintings.

http://www.zazzle.com/daydreamer_mug-168731588814646421

It's bright and sunny...but chilly, here in northwest Ohio. I've put out a few Christmas decorations, but am not "fully" in the holiday mood yet. How are your decorations and plans coming along? Or, do you wait until later in the month to decorate? For me, I don't do as much as I used to, but usually get more in the mood the closer it gets. For now, it's time to get back to work...although I'd rather just sit and look out the window and daydream. :)

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to the following blogs:

Paint Party Friday

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

A Norman Rockwell Thanksgiving...and the Winner Is!

2012-11-21T22:02:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone,
I've chosen the winner of my snowman painting the old-fashioned, random way - by writing everyone's name who entered on a piece of paper and drawing one out of a bowl. The winner is...drum roll please...

LV of "Thoughts From Meme's Corner!"

Congratulations, LV! Thanks to all who entered and for the sweet and kind comments about my painting...and thanks to those newbies who signed up to follow my blog. I really do appreciate it and hope you'll enjoy your visits here.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American followers. I'm spending the holiday with one of my nieces's and her family (at her home) this year and I'm really looking forward to it. I sometimes hear people say "life isn't a Norman Rockwell painting," and of course, that's true. Life can be very difficult sometimes. I don't think anyone would argue with that. But, I believe when Thanksgiving rolls around, it's the ideals of family, faith, community and love...sharing a meal and the simple things of life that Mr. Rockwell's paintings depict that everyone holds so dear. These are the very things that keep us going during those rough times. So, enjoy these Norman Rockwell paintings, and as we count our blessings, everyone have a safe and happy weekend.

Thanksgiving, The Saturday Evening Post, 1935

Freedom From Want, 1943

Thanksgiving, Mother and Son Peeling Potatoes, 1945

Until next time,

Cindy

I'm Having a Giveaway!

2012-11-14T21:13:00.000-05:00

Hello faithful followers,
I've decided to host a giveaway...just because I feel like it and because I love you all! So, to kick off the holiday season, I'm giving away my "Jolly, Happy Soul" painting:

This miniature painting meaures approximately 5 1/2" by 4 1/2" and is painted with acrylics on a wood plaque, ready to hang or sit on a decorative easel. It's signed and dated on the back. To enter the giveaway, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post. If you aren't already a follower of my blog, I'd really appreciate it if you'd also sign up to follow me. I'll announce the winner next Wednesday - the day before Thanksgiving.

Speaking of giveaways, I also want to share a couple of things I won recently! First, this wonderful painting by Tracey Fletcher King. You all know how much I love my tea, so this was perfect for me! I'm going to frame and hang it in my kitchen. To see more of Tracey's artwork, visit her blog HERE.

If you visit her blog, you'll see why I adore her work! She paints lots of tea cups and tea related items. Here's another example of one of her watercolors...need I say more?

Her work is fabulous. Again, Tracey Fletcher King's blog can be accessed HERE

I also won this necklace from a website called "Whatever Is Lovely".

I discovered "Whatever Is Lovely" on facebook, where I entered the giveaway. If you love antique and vintage items, you'll really enjoy browsing this shop. They have very unique jewelry, handbags, hats, home decor and more. Their online shop can be found HERE. The following photo is from their website, and it gives you an idea of some of the lovely things you'll find there.

Photo courtesy of: Whatever Is Lovely

Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win my snowman painting!

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the rest of your week!

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to the following blogs:

The Artist's Play Room at Just Add Water, Silly

What's It Wednesday on Ivy and Elephants

Pink Saturday on How Sweet the Sound

Seasonal Sundays on The Tablescaper

Snowmen Paintings

2012-11-07T17:38:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,
I have two new snowmen paintings to share with you that I just listed in my Etsy shop today. They're both miniature paintings that measure approximately 4 1/2 inches by 5 1/2 inches. I painted them on "recycled" wood plaques from the thrift store. Both images are also available on coffee mugs, which you can purchase from my Zazzle.com store HERE.

The first one I call "In the Meadow We Can Build a Snowman." It's a long title for a painting, I know, but that's what this trio of caroling snowmen is singing!

...and this one is titled "A Jolly, Happy Soul."

I'll be listing several new paintings and items in my Etsy shop in the next two weeks (the link is on my sidebar.) I really can hardly believe it's time to start thinking about snow and Christmas, but our trees are almost all bare and the color is gone. I usually don't think of decorating for the holidays until after Thanksgiving, but I must admit, I'm looking forward to the lights and pretty decorations to brighten up the grey days.

Speaking of brightening up my days...look who I found admiring himself in the mirror this morning!

Buster!

He does this most mornings and it just cracks me up! I think it's his morning ritual - to admire his handsomeness in the mirror before he starts his day!

I hope you're having a good week so far...

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to:

Show and Tell Friday on My Romantic Home

Paint Party Friday

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

Cats on Tuesday - Rudy's Turn

2012-11-04T14:33:00.000-05:00

Hello friends,

Dis is Rudy. Time for me to write for our special blogging day, Cats on Tuesday. For those who like kitties, be sure to visit Gattina's blog at My Cats and Funny Stories for more furry funny cat stories.

First, I give you update on Buster after his horrible time at hospital. He is back to his normal self...doing he daily meditations and biting my ears and trying to be boss of me and Sam. Here you can see for yourself that he is good and well now.

Sam is good, too, and doing what Sam do best - sleeping and eating! MOL!

Now, I want to tell you a story about me. When I was tiny kitty, I lived in a garage with my real (cat)

Mom and brothers and sisters. My human pawrents at that time couldn't keep all of us, so they put an ad in paper that say FREE KITTENS TO GOOD HOME. This is when Mom Cindy come to get me. I was first (and only one) of my sisters and brothers she picked up and I snuggled under her chin on her shoulder. She fell in love with me and I fell in love with her and she become my new pawrent. Today I am a grown man-cat, but I still like to sit on her shoulder. Here is picture of us Mom take a couple weeks ago...she say I almost smother her. MOL!

What else I been doing is napping...

...and guess what? I finally talk Buster into teaching me how to do meditations. He say it help with stresses...I bet he had lots of stresses the day he got tooth pulled out of his head! MOL! How do you think I'm doing?

Om...roast chicken...omm...ham...toona...fresh turkey...om

Well, friends, I hope you like my update. Everyone have a good week.

Until next time,

Rudy

Linking to Cats on Tuesday at My Cats and Funny Stories

Halloween Week

2012-10-29T13:13:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,
I first want to tell all my friends and fellow bloggers who live in the path of Hurricane Sandy that I'm praying for your safety. I hope and pray it's not as bad as predicted, but the pictures I'm seeing on television look very scary. Here in Ohio, we're already having very strong winds, although nothing like the east coast, of course. Stay safe and well, everyone.

On another note, it's Halloween week and I want to share these appropriately spooky images I found online. What are your plans? Do you celebrate Halloween, and if so, how? I used to have a lot of fun when I worked outside my home...usually everyone in our office would dress up. One year I was a kitty cat (big surprise there, I know!) and another year I was a....lady of the night. :) Somewhere I have photos and I should dig them out and post for you to see! These days, I tend to decorate more for autumn than Halloween. That way, I can keep the decorations out until Thanksgiving. I live in a semi-rural area and never get trick-or-treaters at my door either. I sort of miss that - seeing all the children in their costumes. So, please share what you do for the holiday.

I love this fence!

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to Seasonal Sundays on The Tablescaper. Click on the link to see an amazing display from the "Rise of the Jack O'Lanterns" at Westbury Gardens.

A Visit to the Bluebell Woods

2012-10-24T19:40:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone,

I want to introduce you to a special lady - Janice of the Bluebell Woods. The pretty picture above is the banner from one of her blogs. Janice actually has 3 blogs, Bluebell Woods, English Spirit's Pretty Things and My Garden Journal. Janice lives in Michigan, but she's originally from England. On her blog profile, she says, "England will always be home to my heart, but I do love Michigan." I met her years ago on a now defunct social networking site for people over fifty called Eons. Janice was the manager of a group called "All Things British." Since I'm a confirmed Anglophile, I joined the group and she and I became online friends. Later, we also connected on facebook and through our blogs. I admire Janice very much. You see, a couple of years ago when her granddaughter was tragically killed in an automobile accident, Janice and her husband took in her young son to raise. At an age when most women are relaxing and settling into retirement, Janice is dealing with potty training and preschool. So, she blogs about the joys and challenges of raising a toddler.

This is Janice's adorable great-grandson, Tristen

She also blogs about nature and gardening...

...and her memories of growing up in England and all things British.

I would love it if you'd stop by Janice's blog and say hello, and she would greatly appreciate it, too! You can find it by clicking HERE or click on her bluebell woods banner above. I think you'll enjoy your visit! Thank you very much!

Until next time,

Cindy

All photos are from Janice's blog, Bluebell Woods

Janice is one example of a strong woman. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month and strong women everywhere, I'm linking this to Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Saturday on How Sweet the Sound.

The Crow and the Owl

2012-10-23T22:47:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone,
I'm updating this post that I'd previously done, so that I can enter it in the Artist's Play Room at Just Add Water, Silly. This wonderful blog belongs to Jennifer Mcclean and I've just recently discovered it. I'm loving her weekly theme artist challenges! This week's theme is Thanksgiving. Neither of these paintings are really "Thanksgiving" themed...more so autumn. So, instead of a turkey - I have a crow and an owl!

Most of my paintings have a nature/animals theme, and some are more whimsical than others. This first one is "Crow at Sunset" on an 8x10 canvas board using acrylics. Jennifer had a sunset theme a couple of weeks ago and this would have been perfect - however that was before I discovered her blog, so she kindly said I could add it to a current challenge to share with everyone.

...and this is "Baby Owl with Pumpkin," painted with acrylics on a 10x10 board. I'm having so much fun painting owls lately! This one just landed in a pumpkin patch. I hope he finds his way back home! :)

Next, I'll be painting a more appropriate "Thanksgiving" painting to add to the challenge. This keeps me on my toes and helps keep the creativity flowing.

So, until next time, everyone have a good Sunday!

Cindy

Linking to the following blog parties:

Artist's Play Room at Just Add Water, Silly

Paint Party Friday

Sweet October

2012-10-19T22:14:00.000-04:00

"The sweet calm sunshine of October, now
Warms the low spot; upon its grassy mold
The purple oak-leaf falls; the birchen bough
drops its bright spoil like arrow-heads of gold."

- William Cullen Bryant

It seems like the fall colors this year are more vibrant than ever! Or, is it as my sister says - one just forgets how beautiful it is until it comes around again? These photos were taken on a walk at one of our local nature preserves earlier this week. Perfect weather...perfect day.

I've also been having fun with pumpkins this year and tried some things I saw on Pinterest.

The glitter pumpkin is easy peasy. Just spread Elmers glue or Pod Modge on the top portion of the pumpkin, then sprinkle on the glitter. I used copper-colored glitter because that's what I had on hand, but orange or black would look awesome, too! If it's a tiny pumpkin, you might want to glitter the whole thing. For the other one, I painted the entire pumpkin black with acrylic paint. Let dry...then scrape it off to make the stripes. This is a little bit more difficult than it sounds - only because it's time consuming to get the stripes straight! I really like the result, though.

But...this is my favorite! I painted the tree and crow on the white pumpkin, using black acrylic paint. Then, I collected branches from the yard for the pitcher. I love the overall look! It's simple and doesn't scream "Halloween" so I can leave it up until Thanksgiving.

Would you believe I've found all of these white pitchers over the past year at my local Goodwill? The best part - they were just one dollar each! I love them!

I hope you're having an enjoyable October so far, too!

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

Outdoor Wednesday at A Southern Daydreamer

Cats on Tuesday - Buster Goes to Doctor!

2012-10-15T20:50:00.001-04:00

Hello friends,
Buster here. You will not believe what happened to me last week. OMC!! It was horrible time...but I need to start at beginning of story. I was not feeling so good and Mom start to worry about me. You see, I did not want to cuddle with her and when she try to pet me, I growl at her. I hide in closet and wouldn't come out. Then she notice I am drooling from my mouth (I'm sorry for gory details, but it is the truth!) So, next day she call the doctor and they say to bring me right in!!! Here I am in car getting ready to go to hospital.

HELP, FRIENDS!!

We arrive at animal doctor. This is outside of building painted with woofies and kitties. Don't let those cute pictures fool you! They do evil things here!!!

Here we are waiting for my turn.

Looks like no one is here to me...I think we should go back home!!

Finally...we go back to little room to wait for doctor. Agony!!! I see the door...this is my time for escape! But, door is shut tight. I am trapped!

Next, doctor come in and examine me from head to tail. He listen to my heart and lungs. He check to see if I have fever...and I don't need to tell you how he do that, friends. It was so humiliating!!! Then he prick me and take my BLOOD! OMC! Can this get any worse? He try to look at my teeth, but I clamp my mouth shut.

Then, you'll never guess what happened - Mom leaves and not take me with her!! Doctor take me in another room and next thing I know I'm out like a light. Well, guess what? I had bad tooth and while I was asleep, they took it out of my head!! After awhile, Mom come pick me up, and she all sweet and nice and say "oh, my Buster, I'm so glad you're okay." Stuff like that. Then, she give them some money and we finally leave.

This is me...right after we got home and I am free again.

It was horrible experience. Mom want to take my picture, but I would not look at her.

Between me and you, my mouth feel much better, but Mom should not leave me like that!! I was not happy with her, but don't worry - I will forgive her. So, friends, that was my horrible week. I hope yours' was much better than mine!

Until next time,

Buster

Linking to the following blogs:

Cats on Tuesday at My Cats and Funny Stories

New Owl Painting

2012-10-13T18:36:00.004-04:00

This is my latest painting - "Barn Owl on a Snowy Branch" painted with acrylics on an approximate 8x10-inch wooden plaque. I painted this for a niece of mine, who loves animals as I do and collects owls. This is the second owl I've painted, and I seem drawn to them lately (yes, I know they're everywhere this year, especially this fall decorating!) I've decided to do a whole series of owls.

This is the first one I painted. It's quite a bit more "whimsical" than the barn owl.

These mysterious creatures have represented many things in myths and legends. Everything from wisdom and protectors and bringers of prophecy, to omens of death, depending on the culture and the time in history. The Native American Hopi Tribe believed owls to be sacred, and the Burrowing Owl was a protector of all the plants and things that grow on the earth. In parts of England, it's considered good luck to see an owl. Over the years, there have been lots of superstitions surrounding the birds, but since the beginning of the 20th century, owls have mostly become a symbol of wisdom.

"A wise old owl lived in an oak
The more he saw the less he spoke
The less he spoke the more he heard.
Why can't we all be like that wise old bird?"

For me - I just think they're beautiful creatures and make fascinating subjects to paint!

I hope everyone is having a good weekend so far. It's a rainy, cool, very fall-like day in northwest Ohio. I sure wish I had a fireplace on days like this! Candles will have to do. :)

Until next time,

Cindy

Linking to:

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

and

Paint Party Friday

Art, Books, Tea...Cindy Adkins' Artful Living

Book Review: Hippie Boy: A Girl's Story

Spring Photos

Spring in Ohio

Cake Art

Fiestaware Tablescape

The First Day of Spring

Cats on Tuesday - Hello from Kitties!

Winter Hiatus

Cats on Tuesday - Buster's New Year's Resolutions

2013

Happy New Year!!!

May Peace and Joy Reign in 2013!

With Love and Purrs for a Pawsome New Year from

Sam, Buster, Rudy and Mom Cindy

﻿

Snow Pictures and Billy Jacobs Art

Happy Christmas to All!

In Memoriam

All Aboard the Birthday Cake!

Daydreamer

A Norman Rockwell Thanksgiving...and the Winner Is!

I'm Having a Giveaway!

Snowmen Paintings

Cats on Tuesday - Rudy's Turn

Halloween Week

A Visit to the Bluebell Woods

The Crow and the Owl

Sweet October

Cats on Tuesday - Buster Goes to Doctor!

New Owl Painting