tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77650805809362742982024-03-13T00:28:43.181-04:00Cher Chic CreationsCreations inspired by my grandchildren and others for which I create. I am a retired teacher who is loving this point of my life. I also am a working artist who is currently developing designs for machine embroidery, Cats have always been a part of my life. Pictured is Idgy, my calico friend who departed from my life on March 7, 2009 at the old age of 16-1/2 years. Here she is pictured sleeping on the sofa in my sewing room.Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.comBlogger223125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-55664268165475187862017-05-03T22:53:00.000-04:002017-05-03T22:56:46.308-04:00Continuing My Search<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9eQJ-359nJ0/WQqW5X4xuDI/AAAAAAAABSs/7bfiHdFqcH8YkmLcdy7GuK9dOxCFkkiWwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9eQJ-359nJ0/WQqW5X4xuDI/AAAAAAAABSs/7bfiHdFqcH8YkmLcdy7GuK9dOxCFkkiWwCLcB/s400/IMG_0107.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My earlier post of stating the goal to find my Native American lineage was made quite some time ago. I haven’t forsaken this goal. I realize that I may not get far with it as that I am a descendent of Native Americans who assimilated into the white population and I have not found the native names of those individuals. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A genetic test was run for me and yes, I do have Native American lineage. My family’s claims of having Native American ancestors are factual. </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #660000;">My research is being focused upon the last six generations of my parents’ family. From there, clues may be found as to those that I am seeking. Now, I cannot focus on this 24/7, but I do want to document what process I make. If I am successful, such documentation of how I uncover information may help others who have the same goal.</span><span style="font-size: 11px;"> </span></span></span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-75283090242356455592015-10-20T21:48:00.002-04:002015-10-20T21:50:01.032-04:00Spooky Fabric Pumpkins ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.urbanthreads.com/productimages/project/PRM1300_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.urbanthreads.com/productimages/project/PRM1300_01.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I have been admiring <a href="http://www.urbanthreads.com/tutorials.aspx?t=Spooky+Fabric+Pumpkins" target="_blank">Urban Threads</a> machine embroidery designs over the past few days and this has really grabbed my attention. </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Click on the hot link for the free pattern and tutorial for these plush fabric pumpkins. The embroidery designs are for purchase and are immediately downloadable. </span></b></div>
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<br />Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-84730148516233689902015-10-12T22:45:00.000-04:002015-10-20T16:05:24.100-04:00Candy Cutie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.cmemag.com/images/articles/images/CME-Cover-1510-200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.cmemag.com/images/articles/images/CME-Cover-1510-200.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This project can be found at </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.cmemag.com/articles/Easy-In-The-Hoop-Project-Candy-Bags?bc=c">Creative Machine Emboidery</a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I know of a couple of special</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">who would be delighted to </span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">receive one of these filled with sweets.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Visit the link given for</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">the free project tutorial and</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">embroidery design.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But don't wait too late!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These free designs will expire on October 31, 2015. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After that time, you can purchase them at</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://shopsewitall.com/"><span style="color: red;">shopsewitall.com</span></a><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span></span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-66488767067935469882015-09-30T19:26:00.000-04:002015-10-20T16:03:27.807-04:00UPDATE:Autumn Is Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt69DKk_YCE/Vgxtd6lzcMI/AAAAAAAABPc/B6UeXr6AidQ/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt69DKk_YCE/Vgxtd6lzcMI/AAAAAAAABPc/B6UeXr6AidQ/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">UPDATE: I will not be able to post the pattern until the first week of November.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">By the way, "Hello, Frances!"</span><br />
<span style="color: #660000;">Oh, this really brings back good memories for me as that the location was my father's house approximately 6 months before, as the Native Americans say, "walked on."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">I have been busy with my family since my last post a couple of weeks ago, and family comes first with me.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">However, I have pulled the pumpkin pattern out and will post how to obtain the free pattern in a day or two. I will have to scan, etc. If you are waiting, please be patient. We have a hurricane churning along the Atlantic Ocean, and although the computer plots its course to skirt us, that remains to be seen, and if the eye hits NC above us, we will still be affected with storms and rains. I am saying this as this may delay getting all that I plan to get done in a day or two.</span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-70583123997384614952015-09-20T12:42:00.001-04:002015-09-20T12:42:02.844-04:00Autumn is Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqzEiX31P4I/Vf7gOvYyrdI/AAAAAAAABPA/5TF3GrOsR2I/s1600/%2521%2521%2521Pumpkins%2BGroup%2BPic%2Bnumbered.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqzEiX31P4I/Vf7gOvYyrdI/AAAAAAAABPA/5TF3GrOsR2I/s400/%2521%2521%2521Pumpkins%2BGroup%2BPic%2Bnumbered.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I ran across this pic of pumpkins that I made in the recent past, and I had almost forgotten about some of them. Keep checking back as that I plan within the next few days, to post a way to obtain the pattern that I used. My family and friends have fabric pumpkins from me. Some are still used by me for my fall decorating. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Autumn is my favorite season!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5994229/?claim=y9hyu5scvt4">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></div>
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<br />Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-28488434097858776662015-08-16T11:50:00.001-04:002015-08-16T11:56:46.560-04:00Are You New to Sewing, or Want to Learn?<br />
<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">This morning, I decided to browse a bit on Martha Stewart's web page (marthastewart.com/martha) and amid the videos, etc., I found a link to </span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/1061290/sewing" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Sewing</a><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">that may interest someone who is a beginning sewist, although some projects may interest the intermediate or advanced sewist. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/275090/sewing-patterns-and-templates/@center/326405/how-to-sew" target="_blank">Sewing Patterns and Templates</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/styles/img_360x450/public/d21/mld106561_0111_sewkit/mld106561_0111_sewkit_vert.jpg?itok=pnDliX2R" height="400" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/275336/sewing-basics/@center/326405/how-to-sew#_" target="_blank">Sewing Repair Kit Binder</a></td></tr>
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<br />Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-83290872454625292122015-08-12T20:58:00.001-04:002015-08-12T20:58:43.553-04:00<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Mg5cYH46OI/Vcvp0_ivFBI/AAAAAAAABOc/sPA3Ob53RQs/s1600/IMG_4714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8Mg5cYH46OI/Vcvp0_ivFBI/AAAAAAAABOc/sPA3Ob53RQs/s640/IMG_4714.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harbor in Charleston, SC. Photo by C. Blakely.</td></tr>
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Summer is on the verge of ending. However, my favorite time of the year, autumn, will follow. I had a busy and full summer with my family. School starts next week for my grandchildren, limiting my time with them. This means that I need to focus on my art and sewing.</div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-21046987237900919002015-04-22T10:20:00.002-04:002015-04-22T10:21:09.346-04:00Blessed are the weird people -<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://40.media.tumblr.com/614d4836555be4a1de033a1c9090228c/tumblr_nkz3copwNX1u18zxzo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://40.media.tumblr.com/614d4836555be4a1de033a1c9090228c/tumblr_nkz3copwNX1u18zxzo1_1280.jpg" height="411" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have not posted anything about accomplishments due to "taking care of family," but hopefully, will get there soon. This caught my eye as I sat in front of the laptop screen, sipping my a.m. coffee. I really do need to get back into my creative mode and I have so many ideas!</div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-9509189593798942832015-03-06T18:58:00.000-05:002015-03-06T19:31:42.607-05:00Spring Is Near! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5D2bUNqNeWo/VPpCFPuPG4I/AAAAAAAABMg/rPcJ7-k6YOo/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-03-06%2Bat%2B7.08.41%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5D2bUNqNeWo/VPpCFPuPG4I/AAAAAAAABMg/rPcJ7-k6YOo/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-03-06%2Bat%2B7.08.41%2BPM.png" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I must pull out patterns and then hit the fabric stores!</span><br />
(Click on image for larger view or<a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/fcr/?season=spring&year=2015&pid=11" target="_blank"> click here</a> for more information).</div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-57745299307350826342015-02-22T18:04:00.001-05:002015-02-22T18:07:33.222-05:00SWEATSHOP - DEADLY FASHION<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A fellow fibre artist and sewist brought this to my attention recently: garment workers live horrible lives. This site exposes how Cambodians are exploited and live in poverty, often starving to death, as the fashion retailers reap big profits. Please click on the image and discover what that dress, or tunic, or any item of fashion that you purchase, may really cost in terms of human misery. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.aftenposten.no/webtv/serier-og-programmer/sweatshopenglish/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://peppermintmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2-406x290.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></div>
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Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-47985422411257630152015-02-08T14:38:00.002-05:002015-02-08T14:39:59.156-05:00Happy Valentine's Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OwRCAnNhp2g/VNe4U3qdekI/AAAAAAAABLM/deIz7ckS4Zw/s1600/JellyBean_Critters_Valentine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OwRCAnNhp2g/VNe4U3qdekI/AAAAAAAABLM/deIz7ckS4Zw/s1600/JellyBean_Critters_Valentine.jpg" height="400" width="273" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">If you are looking for ideas for Valentine's Day, go to <a href="http://pinterest.com/">http://pinterest.com</a> and do a search for Happy Holidays Valentine's Day. I can get lost in Pinterest if I don't watch myself...so, be careful!</span></span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-76075932100875792722015-01-18T21:28:00.001-05:002015-02-01T15:22:18.536-05:00Hydroponics In My Kitchen? What?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-INyUtIw6PW4/VLxpcFHVLII/AAAAAAAABJs/WPY8_l7bevw/s1600/AeroGarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-INyUtIw6PW4/VLxpcFHVLII/AAAAAAAABJs/WPY8_l7bevw/s1600/AeroGarden.jpg" height="320" width="177" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2c7ZYtNnY4/VLxpbR0C0zI/AAAAAAAABJk/dz22xcdkV5s/s1600/AeroGardenV2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h2c7ZYtNnY4/VLxpbR0C0zI/AAAAAAAABJk/dz22xcdkV5s/s1600/AeroGardenV2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">My dear husband purchased a hydroponic planter </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">for my Christmas gift.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChTQDauyGPI/VLxpbaE-J_I/AAAAAAAABJg/vwu6P-sipgg/s1600/AeroGardenV3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChTQDauyGPI/VLxpbaE-J_I/AAAAAAAABJg/vwu6P-sipgg/s1600/AeroGardenV3.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">It was set up two weeks ago and here are the results so far. According to the supplier, we should harvest something within 5 weeks of planting. Two weeks down, three more to go.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">The plants are basil and salad tomatoes. I chose not to plant dill as I really don't care that much for dill. The basil should go well with the tomatoes in a salad. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">Now, when the plants get a bit taller, and start blooming, I have to pretend to be a bumble bee and shake the plants with my hand or an electric tooth brush for pollination to take place. That should be interesting. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">No matter, the full spectrum plant light does help brighten my kitchen on these short days and long nights. The new foliage also lends to lifting my spirits a bit. I also like to garden, whether in my small plot in the back yard, or in containers. I will be updating the progress of this project, too. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">01 February 2015</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">This view shows quite a jump in height between the 18th and the 26th of January. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;">Another application of nutrients was given, as well as the addition of more water.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;">The lamp has been adjusted to accommodate the height of the tomatoes, which are in the end and middle of the planter.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;">If one looks carefully, the basil is peeking out from the back of the planter.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; text-align: center;">Although the basil seeds germinated days ahead of the tomatoes, the plant’s growth is slower.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">Yesterday’s pic shows another leap in height and diameter of the plants. Again, the light was raised to accommodate the plants.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">I measured the height to be approximately 6 inches. There is a cluster of blooms waiting to burst open, and I can see me, doing the “bumble bee thing” of shaking the blooms for pollination to occur.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">I apologize for the extreme highlights. I know that I need to utilize the filtering capabilities of the iPhone camera (newer OS). I will try to do better on the next post.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">The last pic is of the cluster of blooms at the center of the plant in the foreground. I am hoping that they do produce fruit. I know that this is a bit of folly to some, but the light and the presence of these plants helps ward off the seasonal affective disorder that I have during short days of winter. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">I have discovered as the plants have become more massive, that I have to watch the water level of the tank beneath them, and add water more often than before. I continue to move he light upward as the plants grow taller. It will soon be time to prune, I am sure. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>"Remember that children, marriages, and flower gardens </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>H. Jackson Brown, Jr.</b></span></div>
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Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-54719549047015857142015-01-12T09:55:00.000-05:002015-01-12T09:57:34.955-05:00Refreshing Rain<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Rainlight" is magnificent!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even earth tones can shine like jewels in the diffused light and reflections created by the cloud cover and rain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">Although rain may be gloomy and depressing for some, I find it calming, refreshing and renewing. If you want another perspective about rain, click </span><a href="https://labirdiephotography.wordpress.com/2013/10/10/how-to-be-cheery-on-a-rainy-day/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">here</span></a><span style="color: #4c1130;">. Enjoy the "liquid sunshine!"</span></span></div>
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Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-72613187397510763772014-12-24T21:05:00.001-05:002014-12-24T21:08:22.804-05:00MERRY CHRISTMAS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Work of Christmas Begins</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"When the song of the angels is stilled,<br />when the star in the sky is gone,<br />when the kings and princes are home,<br />when the shepherds are back with the flocks,<br />then the work of Christmas begins:<br />to find the lost,<br />to heal those broken in spirit,<br />to feed the hungry,<br />to release the oppressed,<br />to rebuild the nations,<br />to bring peace among all peoples,<br />to make a little music with the heart…</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And to radiate the Light of Christ,<br />every day, in every way, in all that we do and in all that we say.<br />Then the work of Christmas begins.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-- Howard Thurman, adapted</span>Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-58736762939054341662014-12-15T13:16:00.000-05:002014-12-16T07:34:13.657-05:00A Day Trip?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xh_EL_e-F28/VI8icX1hbNI/AAAAAAAABIw/wgrBsZ29slk/s1600/Black%2BRiver%2C%2BGilland%2BPark%2C%2BKingstree%2C%2BSC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xh_EL_e-F28/VI8icX1hbNI/AAAAAAAABIw/wgrBsZ29slk/s1600/Black%2BRiver%2C%2BGilland%2BPark%2C%2BKingstree%2C%2BSC.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black River, Gilland Park, Kingstree, SC</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Posted <span class="grd" style="border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">December 11, 2014<span style="background-color: white;">, <a href="http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/2014/12/11/4661668_day-trips-kingstree-williamsburg.html?sp=%2F99%2F123%2F&rh=1" target="_blank">on </a></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Geneva, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px;"><a href="http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/2014/12/11/4661668_day-trips-kingstree-williamsburg.html?sp=%2F99%2F123%2F&rh=1" target="_blank">myrtle beach,com</a>:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 30px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 39px;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">Day Trips | Kingstree, Williamsburg County offer history, undisturbed scenery</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Looking for an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle over the winter holidays? What about exploring a historic town and a beautiful river? </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">The scenic Black River is a perfect example of a coastal plains stream, and it runs through the historic town of Kingstree. Black River’s headwaters are in nearby Lee County; it meanders down to the Great Pee Dee River at Winyah Bay near Georgetown. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">The banks of Black River are largely undisturbed due to extensive forestland conservation efforts by landowners and The Nature Conservancy, Ducks Unlimited, Pee Dee Land Trust and other regional land conservation organizations. Parts of Black River are considered by locals and visitors alike to be the prettiest of all rivers in the area.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">In Kingstree, you can visit Gilland Park, on Gilland Avenue and on the Black River. Take your children and pets, pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon. If you have more time, arrange a guided tour or simply take your boat and explore this gem of a river. The current is not too strong, and the mosquitoes and other pesky insects won’t be too active this time of year. Winter in this part of South Carolina is really a great time to see the natural world.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Take a little more time to explore the historic town of Kingstree. Kingstree and Williamsburg County are at the southern tip of the Pee Dee region. You’ll notice that the shape of the large oak trees looks more like the Lowcountry’s landscape — somehow they seem stouter and wider than the oak trees farther up in the Pee Dee region. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">Like Conway and so many other South Carolina towns, Kingstree’s 1823 courthouse, at 201 W. Main St., was designed by the famous architect Robert Mills. Kingstree also has a Carnegie Library; it now serves as the county museum — the Williamsburgh Historical Museum at 135 Hampton Ave. — and houses artifacts that date back to the very beginning of the county’s existence.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">The museum also owns the 1749 house, Thorntree, which once served as an encampment for British dragoons, members of any of several cavalry regiments in the British army. In fact, quite a bit of Revolutionary War activity occurred around Kingstree and Williamsburg County. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">To learn more about the skirmishes of the Revolutionary War in this area, follow the Francis Marion Trail Pee Dee driving tour. For more information, go to </span><a href="http://easternscheritage.com/francis_marion_trail_sites.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">http://easternscheritage.com/francis_marion_trail_sites.html</span></a><span style="color: #0c343d;">.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d;">As you head home, you can try out the brand new boutique hotel in the nearby town of Lake City, The Inn at the Crossroads, 128 W. Main St.</span></div>
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Read more here: http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/2014/12/11/4661668_day-trips-kingstree-williamsburg.html?sp=%2F99%2F123%2F&rh=1#storylink=cpy</div>
<span id="goog_962883824"></span><span id="goog_962883825"></span><br />Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-56222664894475323502014-12-11T15:04:00.001-05:002014-12-11T15:06:41.293-05:00Thought for a Thursday: Be Alone With...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature, and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes people to be happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. As long as this exists, and certainly it always will, I know that then there will always be comfort for every sorrow, whatever the circumstances may be. -Anne Frank</span>Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-32520331216189226272014-12-07T16:24:00.001-05:002014-12-07T16:24:13.794-05:00Free Christmas Holiday Reindeer Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is a Scandinavian design that has caught my eye and would love to make one or two as presents for a close friend or two, or maybe for a young child. What I do, I will reveal later on. I have not decided, nor do I know if I have the time, considering that Christmas is about 2 weeks away, and I have so much planned. That is not bad, as that I could just be sitting around being bored. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">The pdf pattern can be found </span><a href="http://sew-whats-new.com/photo/free-christmas-holiday-reindeer-pattern?context=album&albumId=2031451%3AAlbum%3A121747" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">here</span></a><span style="color: #0c343d;">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just sharing in case this appeals to you, too.</span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-6494527990992429032014-12-01T10:30:00.003-05:002014-12-01T10:30:55.477-05:00Three Things in Life<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">This was posted on my FB news feed. It seems like a good </span><i style="text-align: start;">follow up</i><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> to yesterday's post. </span></td></tr>
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<br />Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-15995189288503429712014-11-29T19:25:00.000-05:002014-11-29T19:27:39.180-05:00Thanksgiving -- A Forgotten Holiday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">As I write, it is near dark on Saturday, November 29th.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">Spiced pumpkin bars are baking in the oven, and this will be the last “goody” fixed for a couple of weeks.</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;">The low carb menus will be what is strictly served for the next couple of weeks, at least, until the Christmas treats are prepared. </span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My son, daughter and the younger granddaughter ate Thanksgiving dinner with my husband and me. My “brood” cooked all the side dishes and desserts and left the turkey, dressing and gravy for me to fix. This Thanksgiving was a time that we enjoyed being together and reaffirmed our family bond. This was my younger granddaughter’s first Thanksgiving with us as that she and my daughter lived on the NW coast and then above D.C. for awhile. She had seen us at other times when they flew in to visit us for other holidays, but never for Thanksgiving. The photo is of the turkeys that she made from cookies and candy corn. Of course, everyone had to eat at least one. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I love autumn, and also look forward to Thanksgiving. Over the past years, I have noted that the commercial world starts with Christmas decorations and stocking gift ideas for Christmas almost as soon as the Fourth of July is over (or so it seemed). Thanksgiving has been so overlooked. Thanksgiving is a time for families to get together and give thanks to God for our blessings. I am also saddened to see the Black Friday sales and pre-Black Friday sales now. My family chose to just be together and spend the time together, and avoided the shopping frenzy. We did take the granddaughter to see a movie, for a Friday matinee, that we adults really didn’t care for, but she enjoyed it and we enjoyed seeing her laugh and then talk about the movie as we drove home from the theatre. We made memories that I hope will last a lifetime. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The spiced bars are now cooling on the table. It will soon be time for me to make a cuppa and serve the treat for everyone at our dining room table. Yes, we are a family that eats meals together. I hope that my granddaughters continue doing so with their family on a daily basis, in the future, and not just on Thanksgiving or special occasions. </span></div>
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Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-23033590646266720902014-11-27T22:28:00.001-05:002014-11-27T22:54:11.426-05:00Chen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dUQ2A9DGYY/VHflPCJjJ8I/AAAAAAAABHE/Iovv7DHx34w/s1600/IMG_4059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6dUQ2A9DGYY/VHflPCJjJ8I/AAAAAAAABHE/Iovv7DHx34w/s1600/IMG_4059.JPG" height="302" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was a sketch that I made while I was at my parents' home on a weekend visit from college. The Siamese kitten, named Chen, was about 6 months old. He was resting on my bed and I did some impromptu sketches on a page of a sketchbook that I kept close to me. I have always loved cats and have never been without the company of one or more. Cats are more aloof and independent than dogs, but I feel a kinship with them. Each one has a different personality, and when one has bonded with a human, that cat is an excellent companion. I have often stated the one doesn't adopt a cat as that the cat adopts its human. My cats can sense my moods, and even the ones that are not as close to me as others, react in an empathetic manner. My husband would joke that when I was in bed sick, that he could gauge the seriousness of my illness according to how many cats were on my bed. At the moment, I have three cats. Back to my art work: In my sewing / art studio, I have photos of my husband, children and grandchildren; however, there are multiple displays of my cats, some of which are deceased. The sketch shown above is hanging in my house. The photo is a bit askew as that I took the shot in a hurry under not so perfect light conditions. I am bringing my sketch books out, and hope to fill them with drawings. When I am not doing something creative, I am not a happy person. Art is my therapy: It calms my soul and makes it sing!</span>Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-45256632544272338472014-11-25T11:13:00.000-05:002014-11-27T08:52:00.371-05:00The Pull of the Moon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFBZiRHDuj4/VHSlN9kqPJI/AAAAAAAABG0/Umw9zMhNVSY/s1600/Pull_of_the_Moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFBZiRHDuj4/VHSlN9kqPJI/AAAAAAAABG0/Umw9zMhNVSY/s1600/Pull_of_the_Moon.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<img src="webkit-fake-url://D63B4D7D-E4C3-40AC-9071-2A2FB3279F42/imagepng" /><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last evening, I opened the hardback copy of <u>The Pull of the Moon</u> by Elizabeth Berg. The novel begins with: "Dear Martin, I know you think that I keep the green rock by my bed because I like its color. And I do like its color. But the reason I keep it by my bed is that oftentimes I wake up frightened, and it comforts me to hold it then I squeeze it. ... The rock seems to act as a conduit, drawing out of me whatever it is that is making my heart race, whatever is making me feel as though my own soul is one step ahead of me, saying don't come."<br /><br /><br />I stop reading and look at the worry stone (pictured above as it lies on top of the book cover) that I purchased during a short getaway in the mountains two years ago. It is smooth with an indentation that is perfect for me to rub my thumb as I hold it. The stone is kept by my bed. I pick it up whenever something bothers me and feel its smooth, polished surface as I ponder and often pray over whatever is on my mind. I hold it until it is no longer cool and is as warm as my fingers. By the time the stone becomes warm, I have become calmer. <br /><br /><br />I continue reading: ..."Beside me I have a turquoise journal, tooled leather, ...." I stop reading and stare at my turquoise journal, next to me on the reading table in my bedroom, with a simulated leather cover, as a sense of uncanniness falls upon me. I pick up my worry stone, and rub it as I contemplate the reason that I chose to read this book.</span><b style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: center;"> </b><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday morning, I visited a friend and saw the book on her kitchen counter. I was drawn to it, picked it up and read the back cover: "<i>The Pull of the Moon"</i> should be read by anyone who has ever (even for the slightest second) threatened to run away from home. ... It leaves the reader observing life with great hope and satisfaction." I chuckled and quipped, "I should read this one!" My friend told me that she was finished with it, and to take it to read. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>The cover to my journal reads, </b></span></div>
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</span>Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-32420079930556153602014-11-14T14:48:00.000-05:002014-11-14T15:10:19.670-05:00A November Sunset in the South<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last Monday, at approximately 5:30 p.m., as Gene and I drove eastward on Main Street on our way home, I was struck with awe at the brilliant sunset. As you can note, the light turned green, and I took a quick shot with my iPhone. I must remember to carry my digital camera with me more often, especially during this time of the year. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The leaves are brilliant here as I write, but the sky is overcast and early morning or late afternoon light is needed to catch the leaves sparkling as jewels on the trees and other plants. The silhouetted trees are some of the oaks that are so abundant here.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do so love this time of the year, and feel so fortunate to have been born, raised and still living in the south! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today's weather is the type that keeps me inside and work in my sewing / art studio. Speaking of which, I need to get back to what I was doing. </span>Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-47158947017876127102014-11-11T10:44:00.003-05:002014-11-11T10:45:56.544-05:00A Special Veteran's Day for Us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Giving a salute to our family hero!</div>
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For over 40 years, Gene would not let his two bronze stars and other medals see sunlight. Then, when the dementia started, he revealed to me that he was in the Battle of Hamburger Hill and the Second Tet Offense in Vietnam between his tour of 1968-1969.</div>
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This pic was taken last May 26th at a luncheon given for the vets. Isabella, our GrDaughter, is as proud of her grandfather as the rest of the family is.</div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-3737757394743367042014-11-02T21:01:00.000-05:002014-11-03T09:50:52.804-05:00Just Ramblin' on<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #660000;">I ran across this pic today of some frayed fabric flower pins that I made the fall of 2011, just months before my father expired. I remember wearing one, as I pushed him around in a wheelchair in a doctor's office, and one of the medical staff complimented me on it. The homespun print just dressed up my top and looked so seasonal. I have one somewhere and need to dig it out to wear again between now and Thanksgiving. My brood is to be with my dear husband and me for Thanksgiving. I have so much to do between now and then....</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; letter-spacing: 0px;">I have been listening to Annie Lennox’s new album for days after a few weeks of anticipating its digital release. I have thoroughly enjoyed it, with the exception of one selection, “Strange Fruit,” which I deleted from my play list. It is so hard for me to listen to it for a couple of reasons, but, mainly for one personal one. I also wonder, although the song has a strong history in jazz and blues, if another song should have been chosen. No matter, kudos to Annie Lennox for more beautiful music. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCTqZrQBXbo/VFbYKxc0wyI/AAAAAAAABCA/EHXox9BU8Qg/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-11-02%2Bat%2B8.18.53%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCTqZrQBXbo/VFbYKxc0wyI/AAAAAAAABCA/EHXox9BU8Qg/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-11-02%2Bat%2B8.18.53%2BPM.png" height="320" width="298" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I was fortunate to hear Susan Boyle in concert last week in Charleston, SC. SB is on her first tour in USA. I found her persona to be as delightful as her voice is beautiful. When the performance finished, it was hard to believe that it has lasted for 2.5 hours. The selections were from past albums, as well as from her new album, "Hope," which I need to purchase and download. I was so thrilled to hear one of my favorite songs, "Wild Horses," and it brought tears to my eyes as that it hit so close to home with me. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">Reading is a good escape from when I have my dark moods, but my artwork, sewing, and music are such therapy for me. I couldn't exist without them. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyFDNUtDHkM/VFbgQ6GPGcI/AAAAAAAABCQ/nUMCdvX7otE/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-11-02%2Bat%2B8.53.03%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #660000;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyFDNUtDHkM/VFbgQ6GPGcI/AAAAAAAABCQ/nUMCdvX7otE/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-11-02%2Bat%2B8.53.03%2BPM.png" height="308" title="Blue Ridge Parkway, NC 20 October 2014" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">How many times has anyone heard me say that autumn is my favorite time of the year, especially in the mountains? I am sure those who know me well will say, "Too many to count!"</span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">This pic was taken by my daughter, on Oct. 20th, and has not been edited. I don't think that I have ever seen the foliage in greater glory. The mountains appeared to be "bedazzled," as my grandkids would say. Another project to complete in the next week or so: Make our photo book for this trip!</span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7765080580936274298.post-86714008346814775262014-10-27T22:24:00.001-04:002014-10-30T16:36:59.438-04:00Claudia's Chatter<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: purple;">There is another blog authored by me, </span><a href="http://claudiaschatter.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #b45f06;">http://claudiaschatter.blogspot.com</span></a><span style="color: purple;">, in which the posts will be on a more personal nature. However, one must receive an invitation to view this blog. In order to obtain an invitation, contact me via my gmail account: aidualcb@gmail.com -- place the words,<i><b> invitation request</b></i>,<i> </i>for the subject of the email message.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cher Chic Creations will focus upon my artistic and sewing projects along with other items that may interest others with similar interests. </span></div>
Claudiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11599504983822773260noreply@blogger.com0