tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80845710206224925612024-03-05T23:00:31.321-06:00alarmcat studioalarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.comBlogger1004125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-29360865331066052122018-05-27T15:29:00.000-05:002018-05-27T15:29:11.818-05:00just doodling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6AMM5H-EMxQ/WwsU4Sc093I/AAAAAAAAHTw/o5KNh-bXnloB2as7EaP_6-p9qI2kYv_QwCLcBGAs/s1600/critter-doodles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6AMM5H-EMxQ/WwsU4Sc093I/AAAAAAAAHTw/o5KNh-bXnloB2as7EaP_6-p9qI2kYv_QwCLcBGAs/s400/critter-doodles.jpg" width="475" height="622" data-original-width="950" data-original-height="1244" /></a></div><br />
Enjoying a nice long weekend. Well, sort of. Friday was “run errands day.” Saturday was “clean closets day.” Today is “play day.” Tomorrow will be back to more chores. But it’s been nice sleeping in a bit. I usually get up at 5:00 so 7:00 a.m. is luxury!<br />
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Lately, I find that I have all sorts of ideas of things to draw when I’m at work or otherwise busy. Then when I have the time to sit down and draw … nothing is there! <br />
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Today I gathered up a bunch of little critters from around the house. At least I felt a little productive just letting these doodles spill out of the pen!<br />
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It’s been a bittersweet weekend. Fourteen years ago this weekend, I moved to Arkansas when I married my husband. There isn’t a day goes by that I don’t wish I could go back and do it all over again. I miss him every day. <br />
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Yesterday I finally cleaned out his clothes closet and took most of it to Goodwill. (I saved a few of my favorite shirts.) He’s been gone over a year now and every time I started to clean it out, I, well, I just couldn’t do it.<br />
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Now, it’s done. It always used to make me sad to see all of his clothes in the closet. Now, I’m sad that they are gone. Sigh.<br />
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I did have a wonderful dream about him last night. It was very real and I could feel him hugging me. That little voice in my head thinks that he’s telling me it was ok to give away his clothes for someone else to use. He was very practical that way. I imagine he would have said, “Sue, they are just shirts. Let them go!!” <br />
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I miss that guy.<br />
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alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-40714205826645330832018-04-22T09:05:00.000-05:002018-04-22T09:05:13.769-05:00my happy placeSome people go to a beach or a mountain when escaping to that happy place in their mind. Mine happens to be a bookstore. Usually the bargain bookrack in the corner!! Ahhh. It’s a wonderful little spot. Quiet and so relaxing! And full of half-priced art books ☺<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxIzzNwxJZU/WtyWAdRF0mI/AAAAAAAAHTM/5dPtUviyRhQFdKXqhtwre6zoVRq6HdmxACLcBGAs/s1600/bargain-books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxIzzNwxJZU/WtyWAdRF0mI/AAAAAAAAHTM/5dPtUviyRhQFdKXqhtwre6zoVRq6HdmxACLcBGAs/s640/bargain-books.jpg" width="475" height="762" data-original-width="951" data-original-height="1524" /></a></div><br />
This week has been such a mix. First, we had spring, then we had winter, then we had spring again. Now we are having a lovely rainy weekend. I think spring is here to stay. Lord, I hope so!<br />
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I started working at our local community college last summer. I really enjoy it. Fun people and so full of energy all the time. Well, this week, we’ve been registering all the high school students in the area – by the busloads! My job mainly is setting up and tearing down things. Part of this detail involves the after lunch clean up. We serve pizza. Lots and lots of pizza. Which means leftover pizza. I have absolutely no willpower when it comes to pizza. I know I’ve put on some weight this week. I’m really afraid to step on the scale!! Thank goodness we are nearly done!! It’s torture!<br />
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Ok, so this happened to me last night. I thought I was losing my mind. Which happens more and more lately. <br />
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I made some hamburgers for dinner. Earlier, I had pulled some buns out of the freezer to thaw. So my burger was cooked and ready to be bunned. But no buns in sight. <br />
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Did I put them back in the freezer? No. <br />
In the fridge? Not there. <br />
I checked all the cabinets. Even the trash. Nope. <br />
Where did I put them? <br />
I thought to myself, I’m probably looking right at them and just don’t see them. (I do that a lot.) <br />
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I glance into the living room and see a torn-to-shreds wrapper and not one bun. The dog had eaten the whole pack!! No wonder she wasn’t hungry for dinner.<br />
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So I ate my bun-less burger which is better for me anyway. Darn it.<br />
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Have a wonderful week. See you soon.<br />
alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-59736384201886169892018-04-15T11:55:00.000-05:002018-04-15T11:55:39.158-05:00Hello ♥<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1voxZcSwbKU/WtODJLWATuI/AAAAAAAAHS4/YNe5OY22YI0N1Vfn01h0MCWgOfhGZFOEACLcBGAs/s1600/bicicletta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1voxZcSwbKU/WtODJLWATuI/AAAAAAAAHS4/YNe5OY22YI0N1Vfn01h0MCWgOfhGZFOEACLcBGAs/s400/bicicletta.jpg" width="475" height="640" data-original-width="950" data-original-height="1280" /></a></div><br />
I’d like to say that I’m back for good. But let’s not go that far.<br />
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Once again, I’m trying to find a new normal. One that includes making art.<br />
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I take a sketchbook to work everyday. It usually takes me a week to finish one sketch. And 99% of the time, it’s crap. But this is one that I like.<br />
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Working with a pen can be so calming. I’ve needed this.<br />
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So, friends, hello and I hope to be back again soon.alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-9507768575277261292017-07-09T14:05:00.001-05:002017-07-09T14:05:41.554-05:00sunday sketches :: summertime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xP5wHcCVtuM/WWJ9-FMwgHI/AAAAAAAAHRE/tnKErSvT1oowN2-VowJjn5tKSe5_erxUwCLcBGAs/s1600/umbrella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="950" height="367" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xP5wHcCVtuM/WWJ9-FMwgHI/AAAAAAAAHRE/tnKErSvT1oowN2-VowJjn5tKSe5_erxUwCLcBGAs/s640/umbrella.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>I would say this is a self-portrait but I don’t get out in the sun so much anymore. Not after a scare last summer. <br />
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I had a basal cell carcinoma removed from my lip. I just thought it was a zit that wouldn’t go away! It took about 12 stitches and there’s a scar from my nose to the top of my lip. So in order to avoid more scars – I’m staying out of the sun! <br />
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Just give me a foo foo drink and I’ll stay indoors!<br />
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My first week at the new job went really well. In the summer, we work four 10-hour days. I love Fridays off but those long days are killer. I miss my afternoon naps. And real shoes hurt my feet. No more sandals or bare feet. They really frown on that!<br />
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Sharing this week at <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>.<br />
alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-68542185717598493772017-07-04T12:50:00.000-05:002017-07-04T12:50:22.702-05:00scribble picnic :: melon<br />
…and <span style="color: red;">Happy</span> <span style="color: blue;">4th of July</span>!! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZU6R3pc57s/WVvUrku-wlI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/RqzbyK5mMPcBgTfw__gXK5OGlvN67rlpQCLcBGAs/s1600/july4-melon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="950" height="608" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZU6R3pc57s/WVvUrku-wlI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/RqzbyK5mMPcBgTfw__gXK5OGlvN67rlpQCLcBGAs/s640/july4-melon.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
Some of you might remember this drawing from last year. I submitted it to <a href="https://kathytemean.wordpress.com/2017/07/04/happy-birthday-america-enjoy-the-4th/" target="_blank">Kathy Temean’s</a> blog. She had put out a request for 4th of July-themed drawings. I saw on her blog today that she has done the same…so you’ll see my drawing there again!<br />
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Just so happens that <b>melon</b> is the theme this week at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a>. So if you don’t mind, I’ll share my summer-y melon drawing again. alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-41284807641665970242017-06-28T11:16:00.003-05:002017-06-28T11:16:54.530-05:00scribble picnic :: fox<b>Fox</b> is the theme this week at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a>. Thanks to Michael for hosting. <br />
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Here is Mrs. Fox all dressed up for date night with Mr. Fox. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfU0MJ1zV9I/WVPWFT25yEI/AAAAAAAAHQc/CSnlVoWkBL8Zjf-wElOwhVnzFKCLthHSgCLcBGAs/s1600/mrs-fox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="905" height="840" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfU0MJ1zV9I/WVPWFT25yEI/AAAAAAAAHQc/CSnlVoWkBL8Zjf-wElOwhVnzFKCLthHSgCLcBGAs/s640/mrs-fox.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
Please take a look at others who joined the challenge this week and see how they interpreted the theme. Next week’s theme is “<b>Watermelon</b>” if you want to start working on something and join us!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-85152827436566710282017-06-25T13:08:00.000-05:002017-06-25T13:08:08.789-05:00sunday sketches :: puppy practice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K9k5lQnLwcE/WU_7ZLRWVGI/AAAAAAAAHP8/L9agrEZLkY8U4GKI2gNc2KRGB4t4mw98wCLcBGAs/s1600/puppy-practice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1294" data-original-width="475" height="647" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K9k5lQnLwcE/WU_7ZLRWVGI/AAAAAAAAHP8/L9agrEZLkY8U4GKI2gNc2KRGB4t4mw98wCLcBGAs/s640/puppy-practice.jpg" width="468" /></a></div><br />
This week for <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches,</a> I’ll share some sketches I’ve been working on. I wrote a story about a cute dog, so naturally, I used my dog as the inspiration for this sweet pup!<br />
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Do stop by Alexandra’s blog to check out other <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches.</a>alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-18001194422717518952017-06-14T16:08:00.000-05:002017-06-14T16:08:59.297-05:00scribble picnic :: bird<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KgLTE5cqClA/WUGlYwnyOrI/AAAAAAAAHPs/GUAcACR0JD4TpkAnPsLxiNhRWcUfQSKgACLcBGAs/s1600/owl-pen-ink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1416" data-original-width="950" height="708" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KgLTE5cqClA/WUGlYwnyOrI/AAAAAAAAHPs/GUAcACR0JD4TpkAnPsLxiNhRWcUfQSKgACLcBGAs/s640/owl-pen-ink.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
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<b>Bird</b> is the theme this week at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a>. Thanks to Michael for hosting. <br />
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I signed up for a Pen & Ink class at our local wellness center for the month of June and “bird” just happened to be the theme for our class, too! <br />
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Give me a pen and a “Fixer Upper” marathon on TV and I’m content for hours!!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-26931657938360747772017-06-11T11:56:00.000-05:002017-06-11T11:56:41.743-05:00sunday sketches :: lily on the bookshelf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HQAMx4ApfVo/WT11zKWSE7I/AAAAAAAAHPY/HWFsLsluY5wnpap_HRpSLymP7p07s4XJwCLcB/s1600/up-high-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="950" height="475" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HQAMx4ApfVo/WT11zKWSE7I/AAAAAAAAHPY/HWFsLsluY5wnpap_HRpSLymP7p07s4XJwCLcB/s640/up-high-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
“Well, now. How do I get down?” That’s what is going through this little troublemaker’s mind!<br />
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I’ve been making more and more time to sketch and paint lately. It feels good. <br />
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Mostly I have to study the weather and plan when I can mow the grass. It grows so darn fast! I have to work around rain and extreme heat. Who knew it would be such a challenge! <br />
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I’m 58 and never had to cut my own grass. In my defense, I grew up with 4 brothers and that was their job. Later on, I lived in a series of apartments and townhouses where the yard work was part of the rent. Then when I married, that was something that Bob enjoyed doing. But now…it’s my job. My dad came to visit and taught me how to do it. I do believe I’ve lost a little weight. It can be a good workout!<br />
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This week, the string on the trimmer/edger ran out so I had to figure how to get it working again. I watched a video, refilled the cartridge and was back to work in no time! What did we do before YouTube?<br />
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I hope your weekend is good. Me? I plan to stay indoors today where it’s nice and cool. A good day to catch up on my fellow bloggers! <br />
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Do stop by Alexandra’s site to check out other <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>.<br />
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alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-20409790593100041842017-06-04T12:16:00.005-05:002017-06-04T12:16:48.786-05:00sunday sketches :: where’s lily<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-a46fJPp07BkH9cnxfVFt8_YlGsZH2MFaUWmOAq2U4fx28ydld0_1ZljqM79Ts4I5ZtQtV9O2mP_TpbWAum3stDJHPAiu1gJj6mp3QAaERHkho4qtuhWdG0qYMwIdH45Fcrf9QtPOIJo/s1600/under-Bed-Lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="950" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-a46fJPp07BkH9cnxfVFt8_YlGsZH2MFaUWmOAq2U4fx28ydld0_1ZljqM79Ts4I5ZtQtV9O2mP_TpbWAum3stDJHPAiu1gJj6mp3QAaERHkho4qtuhWdG0qYMwIdH45Fcrf9QtPOIJo/s640/under-Bed-Lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
I haven’t done a Lily drawing in a while. She’s not a very good hider! A good sleeper, yes!!<br />
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Sharing my Lily painting on <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>. Thanks to Alexandra for hosting!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-35263728178558174612017-05-31T10:06:00.003-05:002017-05-31T10:06:36.627-05:00scribble picnic :: books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ITW4Bq9wNfM/WS7bw53h3AI/AAAAAAAAHO4/V-oA7gJvvQEllO9WrNd7-H9UhaeSkSS0QCLcB/s1600/books-on-nightstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="950" height="366" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ITW4Bq9wNfM/WS7bw53h3AI/AAAAAAAAHO4/V-oA7gJvvQEllO9WrNd7-H9UhaeSkSS0QCLcB/s640/books-on-nightstand.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
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<b>Books</b> are the theme this week at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a>. Thanks to Michael for hosting. <br />
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I’m slowly settling in to the new “normal” that is my life now that Bob is gone. I have good days and bad days. And that is normal. <br />
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Last week, I did some sketching for the first time in a long while. I’m trying to incorporate that back into my life. <br />
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Yesterday, I started cutting the grass. It was cloudy and cool. Then it started sprinkling. Then it started raining. So that was the end of my mowing for the day. <br />
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Instead I ended up indoors and decided to focus on the theme for this week. I settled down near my nightstand and sketched the books and knickknacks there. I always have several books in the queue. This little shelf is not really a bookshelf. I think it was meant to hold DVDs or something but it works perfect for books. <br />
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I decided to draw everything on the table so you can see all the little things that I need at bedtime: photo of Bob and my grandson on a hike, cherry flavored chapstick, box of Kleenex, cat dish for holding eyeglasses, tin of cough drops, melatonin gummies, current book and my hot pink Kindle. <br />
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Is there a book or two on your nightstand? Now I’m off to see other Books at the Scribble Picnic. Then out to finish the yard work! alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-37902526455635020982017-05-03T16:31:00.004-05:002017-05-03T16:31:56.646-05:00scribble picnic :: door<br />
<b>Door</b> is the theme this week at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic.</a> Thanks to Michael for hosting. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-REgnzQjZ_5s/WQpLpjFwbSI/AAAAAAAAHOI/uiqOFb58504ZjQJQSY25jcZjVE6BW2wjQCLcB/s1600/door-pencil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="606" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-REgnzQjZ_5s/WQpLpjFwbSI/AAAAAAAAHOI/uiqOFb58504ZjQJQSY25jcZjVE6BW2wjQCLcB/s640/door-pencil.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
I decided to make a good sketch of my front door and paint it. Actually, this has been a task on my To Do list for a while, so now I had a good excuse to sit down and sketch it. I’m thinking of painting the door. Currently, it’s a dark Kelly green color. Now I can use Photoshop and play around to see what color I want to change it to.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wo8URVrgVRk/WQpLpox7rnI/AAAAAAAAHOM/ooAUczSLwTo3NtgxF7fD7oIIGVkx7DmLgCLcB/s1600/door-green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="686" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wo8URVrgVRk/WQpLpox7rnI/AAAAAAAAHOM/ooAUczSLwTo3NtgxF7fD7oIIGVkx7DmLgCLcB/s640/door-green.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
Maybe a red door? Or a darker green? Maybe grey? I would love to paint it turquoise but I don’t think it would look right with the bricks that are around it! Oh, well. I’ll figure something out!<br />
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See you next week…the theme is <b>Potted Plant</b> in case you want to join us!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-72637093531358175832017-04-30T14:13:00.000-05:002017-04-30T14:13:54.062-05:00sunday sketches :: cat in the garden doodleThanks to everyone who left comments on my last post. I hope you don’t think that I felt good about “borrowing” someone else’s work. To this day, it bothers me!! I can’t believe I didn’t confess. I probably should have and taken the “F” I deserved rather than live with the anguish of it all these years!! Ah, well, ancient history.<br />
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I’m slowly making time for more painting and drawing even if it’s only silly doodles like this one. It’s been almost 2 months since my husband passed away and I still miss him so much. Every morning I wake up and he’s the first thought in my head. And the last thought before I sleep at night. <br />
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I guess I am making progress though. At least I can now go to the grocery store without crying. Well, most of the time. It’s silly little things like seeing a cookie that he liked, then crying right there in the snack aisle. <br />
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Both of my grandmothers lost their husbands in their late 50s. One lived until she was 86. The other is 102 and still going. I come from strong women so I know I will get through this. Just wish I didn’t have to.<br />
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Sorry for dragging you down this sad path with me. It’s a nice spring day. The rain has stopped. So I think I’ll get out and grab some sunshine. That might help. <br />
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Do stop by Alexandra’s site to check out other <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches.</a> I’m sure you’ll find some cheerier posts there!! But thanks for letting me unload.alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-62088304170058397392017-04-26T11:54:00.000-05:002017-04-26T11:54:54.569-05:00Scribble picnic :: tree (and a story)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--5K9msofRl0/WQDPUkH85JI/AAAAAAAAHNk/7pnQgBlKPvQ42vlYKiCu0OfbLXFHJsbdgCLcB/s1600/tree-cloud-sheep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--5K9msofRl0/WQDPUkH85JI/AAAAAAAAHNk/7pnQgBlKPvQ42vlYKiCu0OfbLXFHJsbdgCLcB/s640/tree-cloud-sheep.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
This week’s theme for <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a> brought back a memory of a poem I “wrote” years ago. It was an assignment for English class – I was probably 11 or 12 – but I just couldn’t do it. Poems are hard to write with all that rhyming and line structure and stuff. <br />
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“The …” No, scratch that. “This …” Nope. “Once ...” No, that’s not it either. I’m not writing a fairy tale. I need a good poem word to start with.<br />
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I was beyond frustrated. I had to turn in something for class. Anything!<br />
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Our home reference shelf was skimpy on poetry. Dictionary. Encyclopedia Yearbook 1959. Medical reference book. Sear’s Christmas catalog. Wait! A book of children’s stories and rhymes! Bingo!<br />
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In my defense, my intention was to take a look and get some inspiration but desperation is a powerful motivator. <br />
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I copied a poem. Yes, I confess. I plagiarized. <br />
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Mostly.<br />
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“This book is so old, no one will know. Whoever heard of this old poem? No one! It’s so silly,” said my inner demon. <br />
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“That’s cheating and just plain wrong,” said my inner angel.<br />
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“I’ll change it up a bit, make it my own. Easy peasy,” I said to the demon and the angel. “Now hush!” I opened my notebook and began to write. <br />
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<br />
<b>Trees</b><br />
<br />
I think that I shall never see. <br />
<i>(No, I never say ‘shall’, I’ll change that to ‘will.’)</i><br />
I think that I will never see.<br />
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A poem lovely as a tree. <i>(Add ‘as’…that’s how I would say it.)</i><br />
A poem as lovely as a tree.<br />
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A tree whose hungry mouth is prest<br />
Against the earth’s sweet flowing breast;<br />
<i>(Cut this paragraph. What if I have to read my poem aloud? I can’t say breast in front of boys. That’s too embarrassing.)</i><br />
<br />
A tree that looks at God all day,<br />
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;<br />
<i>(Oh, that’s nice. I’ll keep that in.)</i><br />
<br />
A tree that may in summer wear<br />
A nest of robins in her hair; <br />
<i>(I’ll change robins to sparrows then it’s not copying word for word.)</i><br />
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Upon whose bosom snow has lain;<br />
Who intimately lives with rain.<br />
<i>(Bosom. Breast. Same thing. Take out this part.)</i><br />
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Poems are made by fools like me,<br />
But only God can make a tree.<br />
<i>(This sounds like something I might write. I’ll leave this in.)</i><br />
<br />
By Joyce Kilmer<br />
<i>(Change this to my name.)</i><br />
<br />
A quick rewrite in my notebook and my homework is done!<br />
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Whew! I wrote my poem and could rest easy. The next morning, I handed in my assignment and didn’t give it another thought.<br />
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Until…<br />
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The next morning, my paper is returned. <br />
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<b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">A+</span></b><br />
<br />
That’s the grade I got. Well, why not? It was a good poem. It had nice rhymes and everything.<br />
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My teacher was so amazed at me. “Did you write this?” he asked.<br />
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“Yes, of course,” I replied. Well, I had written it in my notebook, hadn’t I?<br />
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“YOU? You wrote THIS?” <br />
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“Yes! I wrote it!” Why is he picking on me? He can’t think I cheated. That book I used was so old.<br />
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“What gave you the idea?” he wondered.<br />
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“I don’t know. I was just looking out the window and thinking and thinking.” Does he see that I’m about to crack?<br />
<br />
He quit questioning me. Was he waiting for a confession? Well, I couldn’t admit it now. I told him I wrote it and I was standing my ground.<br />
<br />
He didn’t take away my A+. Whew. I’m sure in my whole life this was my one and only A+.<br />
<br />
<br />
Now skip ahead three years…<br />
<br />
Imagine my surprise. I’m sitting in Sophomore English class and thumbing through our textbook. When, hello, there it is. My poem! <br />
<br />
Mostly, my poem. <br />
<br />
<br />
If you made it this far, I hope you enjoyed my story and my little doodle of a tree, a cloud and a pair of sheep! Please stop by and visit other artists at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a>. alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-67405919958155077812017-04-12T12:41:00.000-05:002017-04-12T12:41:16.343-05:00scribble picnic :: rabbit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2G9e7iS1so/WO5mXuAIMdI/AAAAAAAAHJc/kaIOcrK7T-gcLVntaQBLER2dpHukMIeuACLcB/s1600/rabbit-in-clover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S2G9e7iS1so/WO5mXuAIMdI/AAAAAAAAHJc/kaIOcrK7T-gcLVntaQBLER2dpHukMIeuACLcB/s640/rabbit-in-clover.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>I finally got back in the studio yesterday. This week’s theme at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a> was too hard to resist. Our back yard is covered in clover (and weeds) and every evening you can see a rabbit or two. <br />
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This time of year, I have to be careful and check before I let the dog out. Last year, she caught a couple of baby bunnies. I guess they panicked and didn’t make it under the fence in time. This year, I’m going to make sure it doesn’t happen again. <br />
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Please stop by and visit other artists at <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a>. alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-79586711504415170882017-03-22T11:17:00.000-05:002017-03-22T11:17:06.992-05:00scribble picnic :: fairy<br />
I’ve been absent for a few weeks. My dear, sweet husband, the love of my life passed away suddenly two weeks ago and I’ve been, well, a mess. <br />
<br />
Most days I’m in sort of a fog but only because I’ve been awake since 2 or 3 in the morning. I’m tired, but can’t sleep. Hungry but nothing tastes good. And the slightest thing makes me all weepy. <br />
<br />
I keep busy during the day. You wouldn’t believe all the little tasks associated with someone’s passing. Paperwork. Paperwork. And more paperwork. Endless phone calls. Every time I check one task off my To Do list, three more things are added. Sigh.<br />
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My friends and family have been wonderful. Text, email, and phone calls every day to see how I am. “I’m ok” is about all I can admit to. <br />
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I haven’t felt like painting or drawing. I hope that doesn’t last long. I NEED to get back in the studio. I know it. <br />
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I found this illustration of a fairy I did a few years ago. At least this is a start to get me blogging again. And maybe soon, I’ll pick up a paintbrush again.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gp_ii53NBgA/WNKjD_Z2WqI/AAAAAAAAHI4/Dv19r8TKN6EBRsch5uTvIoo-K0n4ruO1ACLcB/s1600/fairy-girl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="721" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gp_ii53NBgA/WNKjD_Z2WqI/AAAAAAAAHI4/Dv19r8TKN6EBRsch5uTvIoo-K0n4ruO1ACLcB/s640/fairy-girl.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
I’m sharing this post with <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic. </a>alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-37146937551396720142017-03-05T13:29:00.002-06:002017-03-05T13:29:59.784-06:00sunday sketches :: brave lily<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JN8ba58Ia0/WLxm3-koSfI/AAAAAAAAHIc/LSnw9X1EK9MQP3VZTqKqVLB5fay3yh6sACLcB/s1600/chase-dog-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JN8ba58Ia0/WLxm3-koSfI/AAAAAAAAHIc/LSnw9X1EK9MQP3VZTqKqVLB5fay3yh6sACLcB/s640/chase-dog-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
Here is another sketch of my cat, Lily. This will give you an idea of her personality. Our dog is actually much bigger than tiny Lily but I never worry about those two together. Lily can take care of herself!! The poor dog is always the one who backs away when the fighting gets a little too real.<br />
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Sharing my Lily painting on <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>. Thanks to Alexandra for hosting!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-66275073423208901872017-03-01T09:58:00.000-06:002017-03-01T09:59:32.775-06:00scribble picnic :: cabin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IIz_pn2Z7eg/WLbvDgTcswI/AAAAAAAAHII/5-Z_W6gmSWoCzlgOoHWK-RmFsSq63_67gCLcB/s1600/cabin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="582" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IIz_pn2Z7eg/WLbvDgTcswI/AAAAAAAAHII/5-Z_W6gmSWoCzlgOoHWK-RmFsSq63_67gCLcB/s640/cabin.jpg" width="471" /></a></div>
First, I have to tell you, I’m not much of an outdoor girl so my knowledge of cabins is limited. I’m more of a hotel/condo kind of vacationer. <br />
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I tried to imagine though what I would want in a cabin. <br />
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Two things came to mind. Definitely it would need a rocking chair on the front porch to sit and watch the sunrise. And it would have to have a fireplace to sit and sip tea by. Or maybe read a book. <br />
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And a bathroom. Got to have a toilet and a shower! Like I said, I’m not really a roughing it kind of person! <br />
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<br />
All the cabins I’ve seen around here are made of stone. That’s something we have plenty of in Arkansas. Stones, rocks, boulders, and more stones. So my little cabin is made of native stone. <br />
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If you’ve read this far, I hope you will wander over to <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/2017/03/scribble-picnic-cabin-sign-up.html" target="_blank">Michael’s</a> challenge this week and see what other’s have come up with. Next week’s theme is “<b>Umbrella</b>” if you want to start working on something and join us!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-70689985181045470872017-02-26T16:11:00.000-06:002017-02-26T16:11:14.941-06:00sunday sketches :: lily is hiding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WLF4d_4-X4/WLNSC3_8iQI/AAAAAAAAHHs/NFMW0rdFe0oip5Zdc0Q7mV2gfVpluU1QQCLcB/s1600/hiding-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WLF4d_4-X4/WLNSC3_8iQI/AAAAAAAAHHs/NFMW0rdFe0oip5Zdc0Q7mV2gfVpluU1QQCLcB/s640/hiding-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
I was busy yesterday and finished two paintings with Lily. She is great inspiration. Lily is usually hiding in wait for our other cat to walk by. Always ready to pounce.<br />
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Or like this illo below, she loves to hide in boxes. I know she loves a good Amazon box as much as I do but for very different reasons!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e8nKnC1sZls/WLNSC1-XcxI/AAAAAAAAHHw/FnbZuy7DoC0ZY8IlYHNR_88qjfxQTvNMwCLcB/s1600/silly-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e8nKnC1sZls/WLNSC1-XcxI/AAAAAAAAHHw/FnbZuy7DoC0ZY8IlYHNR_88qjfxQTvNMwCLcB/s640/silly-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
Do stop by <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Alexandra’s</a> site to check out other <b>Sunday Sketches</b>.alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-41403245424555093562017-02-22T08:37:00.000-06:002017-02-22T08:37:03.608-06:00scribble picnic :: octopus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MPzA7ouCC6M/WK2hk044FsI/AAAAAAAAHGM/2iJKrFGQqUsKjsZri-ix7hzo8EtMMV4NQCLcB/s1600/octopus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MPzA7ouCC6M/WK2hk044FsI/AAAAAAAAHGM/2iJKrFGQqUsKjsZri-ix7hzo8EtMMV4NQCLcB/s640/octopus.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
There’s a new meetup for all you sketchers out there :: <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/2017/02/scribble-picnic-octopus.html" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic</a> :: hosted by <a href="http://www.dottyhill.com/about/" target="_blank">Michael MacVean</a>. This week’s theme is <b>Octopus</b>.<br />
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I had a little trouble concentrating on this one. To me, an octopus looks very like a spider. Which I absolutely hate!!! They are just too creepy. Octopus are just larger, underwater spiders in my opinion! <br />
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Please hop over and take a look at other illustrator’s interpretations of the theme.alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-17035008624204378682017-02-19T11:03:00.001-06:002017-02-19T11:03:30.526-06:00sunday sketches :: no lily!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--1hydsDZPh4/WKnPinz_yJI/AAAAAAAAHF4/HfYX9uhju38FqyCfzTtrzl7JIR6YWd-dwCLcB/s1600/no-lily-fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--1hydsDZPh4/WKnPinz_yJI/AAAAAAAAHF4/HfYX9uhju38FqyCfzTtrzl7JIR6YWd-dwCLcB/s640/no-lily-fish.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
Another painting of Lily doing what she does best – get into trouble!!<br />
<br />
Today, I’m going to work on a sketch for <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/2017/02/introducing-scribble-picnic-brand-new.html" target="_blank">Scribble Picnic.</a> The first theme is “Octopus” and the due date is coming soon. Join us!! <br />
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Sharing my Lily painting on <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>. Thanks to Alexandra for hosting!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-30241339570187869962017-02-14T07:23:00.000-06:002017-02-14T07:23:38.392-06:00happy valentine’s day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-604VlC_wN_8/WKJcDEhsS6I/AAAAAAAAHFg/EjfeLHzgOZQMUEN-tglDH1iAscyZo40ewCLcB/s1600/beeMine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-604VlC_wN_8/WKJcDEhsS6I/AAAAAAAAHFg/EjfeLHzgOZQMUEN-tglDH1iAscyZo40ewCLcB/s640/beeMine.jpg" width="475" /></a></div><br />
A little Valentine for you!<br />
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Oh, and a quick mention of a new weekly meetup hosted by <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/2017/02/introducing-scribble-picnic-brand-new.html" target="_blank">Michael MacVean</a>. Please check out Scribble Picnic. He has posted weekly themes through the end of March. More info <a href="http://dottyhill.blogspot.com/2017/02/introducing-scribble-picnic-brand-new.html" target="_blank">here</a> or click the button in the sidebar. Join us!alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-54664805297129039112017-02-12T15:42:00.001-06:002017-02-12T15:42:45.185-06:00sunday sketches :: hello lily<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jmxrdX5OY_g/WKDWbGIW-dI/AAAAAAAAHFA/trXdUmGoAhU0EfPH8q2xK7l8SfjY5BCvACLcB/s1600/hello-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jmxrdX5OY_g/WKDWbGIW-dI/AAAAAAAAHFA/trXdUmGoAhU0EfPH8q2xK7l8SfjY5BCvACLcB/s640/hello-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>Continuing on with more Lily drawings. Here is Lily sitting in the window watching the world go by.<br />
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I’m trying to keep the palette simple for this series. Maybe I’m in a Blue mood … who knows?<br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://alexandramacvean.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>. alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-7492540451677780132017-01-29T12:14:00.000-06:002017-01-29T12:14:46.183-06:00sunday sketches :: play lily<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcorEJxly9w/WI4wheszCtI/AAAAAAAAHEs/hW896fgLrNQpGZBeA2EFGUwI4IIfI219wCLcB/s1600/play-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kcorEJxly9w/WI4wheszCtI/AAAAAAAAHEs/hW896fgLrNQpGZBeA2EFGUwI4IIfI219wCLcB/s640/play-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
Another sketch of Lily. You never know what’s going to happen when you take in a stray. We got lucky with this one. She’s a character!! <br />
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She’s demanding when her food bowl is empty. Or full. Or somewhere in between.<br />
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She’s cuddly. When she wants to be.<br />
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She’s playful with everyone. Especially the dog.<br />
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But she’s also a bit crazy. Well, more like a lot crazy. <br />
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She howls during the night. Is some alien Mothership calling her?? <br />
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She runs like a lunatic through the house every morning. Is some imaginary dog chasing her? <br />
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She likes to sleep on my head. Always has. It drives me bananas! I chase her away and she comes right back. Why does she do this?<br />
<br />
Anyway, in spite of all her craziness, we do love her a bunch. <br />
<br />
Sharing with <a href="http://bluechairdiary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches</a>. Sorry, I haven’t been replying to your sweet comments. I DO visit your blogs though. I hope that’s ok. Some days it gets a bit hectic here.alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8084571020622492561.post-57896557887805265332017-01-22T10:09:00.001-06:002017-01-22T10:09:31.871-06:00sunday sketches :: hey lily<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8J8J8Il0xs/WITY2grojeI/AAAAAAAAHEY/O97jWQbdxFsfBLmuozWiYQw8_VX7ALOjACLcB/s1600/hey-lily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="524" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8J8J8Il0xs/WITY2grojeI/AAAAAAAAHEY/O97jWQbdxFsfBLmuozWiYQw8_VX7ALOjACLcB/s640/hey-lily.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>Another sketch of Lily. <br />
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She likes to visit with us at the dinner table. At first, we thought it was so cute…but now she begs. When we’re not looking, she will snag a little snack off of our plates. <br />
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It’s definitely not cute anymore! But who can get mad at this little face??!<br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://bluechairdiary.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sunday Sketches.</a>alarmcathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12344342425028312773noreply@blogger.com11