Photography by Terri Harper

Vase of Daisies

2012-01-19T00:49:00.001-05:00

Digital edit of daisies photographed outdoors in available light and rendered to look like a watercolor. An overcast sky gives such a nice diffused quality of light!

Fire!

2011-09-17T02:53:00.004-04:00

FIRE

It is amazing the designs that are within flowers and all of nature, for that matter. All you have to do is look closely. Take the time to ZOOM IN, you just might find some nice surprises. "Fire!" is a detail of some brilliantly colored late summer daisies that I digitally painted to emphasize the great designs and rich color.

Home Grown Tomatos

2011-09-04T17:58:00.009-04:00

Yum, there is nothing like a sweet flavorful home grown tomato. Finally I have one that is almost ready to pick. I have no idea why they are taking so long. Not enough sun, maybe? There is a tree that is blocking my patio garden and they are too hard to move every day. I guess I'm going to have to figure something out for future tomatos. These are of the Beefsteak Variety, someone told me that theirs were also late in ripening. It could be the weird weather. Anyway, I can't wait to taste it. Another day or too, I want them to ripen on the vine as much as possible. Maybe I'll consult the Organic Gardening Guru for some tips. He probably knows how to grow Killer Tomatos!!!

Who Will Stop the Rain?

2011-05-25T23:58:00.007-04:00

Will it ever stop raining? I just don't remember this much rain and violent stormy weather in a long time if ever in my lifetime. Well maybe there will be a Rainbow at the end! But not today at least. However last year after a storm, we were treated with a double rainbow and some super sweet light. If you look closely you can see the outer rainbow very faintly. By the time I ran in and got my camera it was almost gone.....anyway I was standing in my front yard looking east and the warm light of the sun lit everything up and with the rainbows, it was quite a sight.
See The Science of Double Rainbows
Creative Commoms www.mrscienceshow.com

Let There Be Light

2011-04-08T19:10:00.006-04:00

QUALITY OF LIGHT
Light can make or break a photograph. It is the most important element in a photograph. Likewise, lighting is also important when viewing a photograph or any other artwork. When you go to a museum, you can see how lighting is used to enhance the artwork. Light can also destroy photos and artwork. The ultra violet spectrum of light is where the dangerous light rays fall.
Check out Solux Art Light to see how you can display and protect all of your photos and artwork that is on display.

All about Dynamic Views for Readers

2011-04-05T22:14:00.005-04:00

All about Dynamic Views for Readers
I just came across this. Looks like a way to get a good overview of someone's blog and can save in search time, especially if you are new to the blog and you want to get a feel for its content. My favorite is the mosaic view. Maybe it is because it is full of prepared food photos and I'm very hungry right now....LOL! If you want to spruce up your blog, check out the link!
Then visit this link for details on how to do this: All About Dynamic Views for Authors

"Bring Me Sunshine"

2011-03-29T15:12:00.006-04:00

"Bring Me Sunshine"
Do you have spring fever? Not just the normal spring fever from dreary winter weather. How about spring fever from the gloomy news media and the gloomy economic forecast....yeah that kind! Well I do and I'm sick of it.....so I'm purposeful on finding some sunshine and happiness...I found this video today on Flixxy.com and I want to share with you.
P.S. The photo of the sunflower is my own personal touch to invoke some sunshine, after all, what better flower than this magnificent one that reaches up toward what it was named after.

Who Is John Muir?

2011-03-26T03:47:00.007-04:00

This engraved rock with a quote by John Muir is at the Nature Center in Rocky River Reservation of The Cleveland Metroparks.
John Muir (1838-1914) was America's most famous and influential naturalist and conservationist. He is one of California's most important historical personalities. He has been called "The Father of our National Parks," "Wilderness Prophet," and "Citizen of the Universe." He once described himself more humorously, and perhaps most accurately, as, a "poetico-trampo-geologist-botanist and ornithologist-naturalist etc. etc. !!!!" Legendary librarian and author Lawrence Clark Powell (1906-2001), (anticipating an event that was not to occur until 2006), said of him: "If I were to choose a single Californian to occupy the Hall of Fame, it would be this tenacious Scot who became a Californian during the final forty-six years of his life." More recently, famed documentary film maker Ken Burns said, "As we got to know him... he [John Muir] ascended to the pantheon of the highest individuals in our country; I'm talking about the level of Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King, and Thomas Jefferson, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Jackie Robinson -- people who have had a transformational effect on who we are."
To learn more visit the Sierra Club website.

Being a Good Steward of Mother Earth

2011-03-23T17:14:00.011-04:00

I am of the belief that we should be good stewards of Mother Earth and all of her species, whether flora or fauna and all of the resources she provides for us. We can't keep taking and taking and ravaging her, she does a fine job of that herself. But that is her right. We on the other hand don't have that right. We need to respect her and all life. We are all connected and we our not only hurting ourselves but everyone and everything.
Yes, even pesky 'Rocky Racoon' is important in the Circle Of Life.
I took this picture in Rocky River Reservation, which is part of our beautiful Metroparks System in Cleveland, Ohio that is fondly known as The Emerald Necklace.
As I was browsing today doing research on some wildlife, I came across this interesting link of a Washington State Zoo.
The Cougar Mountain Zoo and Zoological Society of Washington are dedicated to increasing the understanding and appreciation of the earth’s wildlife and the role of humanity in nature through education, research, captive breeding, conservation, exhibition and recreation.
Visit the link below to learn more.
Cougar Mountain Zoo

Floral Abstract or Thinking of Spring

2011-03-11T01:00:00.003-05:00

I'm thinking of spring and hoping it will be here soon. I'm sick of shoveling snow, cleaning off my car, wearing boots and still having cold and wet feet, wearing a million layers of clothing, ice, slush and high heat bills. Okay so I 'painted' a pretty picture to look at and it made me feel better. Here is my bluegreen floral abstract. It is a digital photomontage painting.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T15:10:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
Floral Heart Mixed Media Collage Digitally Rendered.

Dandelion Dreams

2011-02-11T17:18:00.005-05:00

Some see Dandelions as bothersome weeds on their front lawn. I see them as beautiful edible plants. They also inspired me to create the above digital painting.

The common dandelion, enemy of suburban lawns, is an unusually nutritious food. It's leaves contain substantial levels of vitamins A, C, D, and B Complex as well as magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron and silicon.
Source Lifescript - Healthy Living For Women
To learn more...Visit lifescript.com

Snow, Leaves and Winter, #2

2011-02-09T11:29:00.004-05:00

Here is my next upload from my snow and leaves study. This leaf was a survivor, even though it had seen better days, it was still 'dancing' in the snow. I thought it had an interesting shape. It almost reminds me of a gown of that a snowflake faerie would wear in a ballet. It is just amazing on how many unique captures I've been getting. Just when I think that I can't possibly find another shot different enough to photograph, I turn around to go back in the house to get warm and I see another one!

Snow, Leaves and Winter

2011-02-08T15:30:00.012-05:00

For whatever reason, I have been extremely fascinated with leaves on snow....this year more than usual, I still have stray leaves falling on top of the snow in my yard. Some of them are frosted over with a neat textured layer of frosty snow crystals. Some are floating on top with just a sprinkling of snow. Some are partially in the snow, and/or are at odd angles. They make very interesting compositions, especially with the texture of the snow itself, and the different times of day and quality of light. Some of them are in mini drifts or areas where the snow started melting and then got covered over by new snow...I will share some of these in the days ahead. Here is one of my favorites....actually I like this one because it is one of the more unique ones....one leaf is in front of a snow drift, and the other is partially imbedded in it. The other reason I have been so interested in taking these photos is because I am trying to complete "Ode To Winter" part two in my Four Seasons Project Series....it's not quite there yet but I will post it as soon as I am happy with it.....
As I have said in my Squidoo Lens ZoomIn Don't forget to zoom in on the small bits of beauty that is all around us. Even in winter when it is freezing cold, just dress extra warm and brave the cold...even if it is only for 20 minutes....you might just find a treasure to capture and make 'immortal'...

Ode To Autumn

2011-01-07T16:53:00.008-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY FOLLOWERS, FRIENDS AND FELLOW BLOGGERS!
This is the first print in Four Seasons a new four part series. It is titled "Ode To Autumn" It is a photomontage and my interpretation of the season of Autumn.
It is cold outside and the ground is covered with snow. Bare trees have mounds of snow on them in all kinds of whimsical shapes....maybe an idea is born for "Winter", part 2 in my series....

Skateboarding Rocks!

2010-11-16T19:36:00.005-05:00

My grandson and some of his friends like to practice their skateboard manuevers and have me take pictures, so I can 'record' their progress. I took this last batch back in August. I promised them some copies so I made this cool montage for them.

A Wacky Halloween

2010-10-31T11:06:00.003-04:00

This is an original piece of artwork that I created for my 10 year old grandson for Halloween. He loves it and had fun finding all the different creatures and ghosts in it, etc.
Have a Wacky Fun Halloween, if you have kids or grandkids to share it with, that makes it even better!

Finding Beauty Anywhere

2010-09-28T23:27:00.009-04:00

I found this growing outside the back door. It could have been the front door or the side door or anyone's else's door.
It could have been on the side of the road, in a field, in the woods or down by the river. The point is, you can find beauty anywhere, you just have to see it!

Common chicory, which is also called succory is a wild herb with lavender and occasional white flowers. Chicory is also known by a few other names as - blue sailors, endive, blue dandelion and coffee weed. This perennial herb is native to England, but is now naturalized throughout Europe, North America and Australia. Chicory is mainly cultivated for the chicory leaves and chicory roots. Despite the chicory root side effects, their usage is immensely popular as a substitute for coffee for ages, especially in England and Mediterranean countries.

Chicory Root Uses
Both chicory roots and leaves are predominantly used for culinary purposes. Chicory leaves are used as vegetables for salads and various other food recipes. Chicory roots are first roasted, then ground and then brewed to use as a substitute for coffee beans. While cultivation, chicory roots are specially treated during fall and winter , in order to produce two different types of chicory leaves, namely 'Barbe de capucin' and 'French endive' (witloof). Boiled chicory roots are consumed with butter while roasted chicory roots are used for increasing bitterness of tea and coffee. Chicory roots and seeds are also used as a sedative and it is said to be a probiotic. They also provide relief from a few medical conditions like constipation, cancer, diarrhea, cardiovascular diseases, loss of appetite, etc. There are not too many proven chicory root extract side effects, that are irreversible.
Above info from link below.
Buzzle.com

Natural Graffiti

2010-08-31T11:02:00.004-04:00

What the heck is natural graffiti? It is a term I coined for natural objects used and applied as graffiti. I am working on a series of these right now. These are done in a style known as trompe l'oeil (tromp' low-ee), or "tricking the eye" because they appear to be applied on a given surface. I will eventually spray paint one on a similar brick wall, because I want some natural graffiti around. It would add a nice touch to a patio or garden.

The marvels of nature.

2010-07-30T22:45:00.004-04:00

Mother Nature always has something 'marvelous' for us to experience with one or more of our senses. All we have to do is be there to receive her gifts and enjoy!
This sunset shot was taken while on a visit to Catawba Island a few years ago.

Summer

2010-06-20T18:12:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is The Summer Solstice so summer is upon us. Now is as good a time as any to update my blog. I have been so busy doing other internet stuff that my blog needed some attention. Here is a good summery photo that I 'painted' in photoshop.
"Getting Ready For The Race" was taken at an Art Festival in 2007 on Whiskey Island.

Trilogy: Three Yellowish Orange Petaled Flowers

2010-02-12T02:07:00.006-05:00

I'm looking at these pretty blooms and wishing it was already spring.....
I'm absolutely tired of being cold, shoveling snow and cleaning it off of my car.
Snow is pretty when it's newly fallen.....then it gets dirty and yucky......it's fun to ski on but if you have no time to go skiing then it's no good either.....therefore....winter be gone!

Pet Portraits

2010-01-28T08:09:00.005-05:00

If you are an animal lover, celebrate this new year by having a photo taken of them.
We love our pets, so it stands to reason that we would probably love to have a portrait of our furry friend(s). After all they become part of our family! I love animals and I love taking pictures of them, so if you are looking for a photo of your dog, cat, bird, hamster, horse, lizard, etc. give me a call. Here is a recent portrait I took of a Papillon named Tessa, she is the cutest little thing!

Mother Nature's Ballet....

2009-10-29T17:31:00.006-04:00

Well October is almost over and I haven't added a post yet so here goes. Signs of autumn are all around, leaves turning bright colors and floating down off of the trees. Breezy days with dancing leaves, performing nature's ballet. Cooler days and colder nights, harvest time is blessing us with all kinds of goodies. Apples of all varieties, cider and pumkins to make pies and jack o' lanterns from. Leaves to rake. I've raked the whole yard only to have to do it again this weekend. The changing seasons keep us ever mindful that there is a time for everything, for every season under heaven......

Remembering September 11, 2001

2009-09-17T15:29:00.008-04:00

IN MEMORIAM of all who perished on September 11, 2001.
This is a poem I wrote on that infamous day - my way of coping and trying to making sense out of the senseless horrors and inhumanity to man that occurred. Even though September 11, was 6 days ago, almost a week is not too long to be mindful, although I doubt any one who was old enough to remember will ever forget.

I AM
I have many Names
I have many Faces
I Am The All That Is
I Am The Great I Am
I Am The Alpha and The Omega
I Am your Almighty Father
I Am your Nurturing Mother
I Am the Source of All That Is
I Am the Great Spirit
I Am your Higher Power
I Am Universal Energy
I Am The Great Light
I Am Wisdom
I Am Love
I Am Your God
I Am your neighbor's God
I Am your friend's God
I Am your enemy's God
I Am your country's God
I Am their country's God
I Am the God of the Christians
I Am the God of the Jews
I Am the God of the Hindus
I Am the God of the Buddhists
I Am the God of the Muslims
I Am the God of the Gnostics
I Am the God of the Pagans
I Am the God of the Agnostics
I Am the God of the Atheists
I Am the God of all people of all colors
I Am the God of those you deem to be worthy
I Am the God of those you call unworthy
I Am the God of those who have
I Am the God of those who have not
I have many Names
I have many Faces

Terri Harper
God gave me the words, I just wrote them down.
While trying to make sense of this American Tragedy.
September 11, 2001

A Sign Of Hope

2009-07-25T23:02:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it has been a little over two months since I wrote on my blog. Where did the time go? I've been wanting to post this picture since I took it right after a very severe June 25th thunderstorm that had the trees almost bending over to touch the ground and some extremely heavy rain that left some flooding and power outages (including my power) around the Cleveland area. This beautiful rainbow was a sign of hope and relief! It was surreal to see the trees wrapped with the golden glow of the last of the setting sun and you could almost feel the dissipating charges of electricity in the air, still hanging around from all of the lightening.

Puddles and a self portrait.....

2009-05-21T20:08:00.010-04:00

Last Saturday I was out in the yard walking around to see if the grass was too wet to cut, which of course it was. I was fascinated with the reflections of the top of my neighbor's house and the clouds in the puddles of water from the rainfall we had earlier. My default inclination is to grab my camera and start shooting, so that's what I did. I came up with some surreal and interesting images which I will probably use in a photomontage or digital painting. I like to take self portraits of shadows of myself or reflections of myself in mirrors or any other reflective surface. As I was taking pictures of different angles, I was very careful not to get my reflection in any of the shots. As I was just about finished and looking for any angles that I might have missed in the viewfinder, there was a really neat composition with my reflection in it and I thought this would make a good self portrait, so I captured it. Here is my newest self portrait.

Yardwork and spring

2009-05-02T15:49:00.007-04:00

Well as far as I'm concerned, it is official, nice spring weather is here to stay. WHY? Because I cut my grass for the first time last Saturday the 25th of April. OMG that is 7 whole days ago. Lo and behold, I have to do it again today or tomorrow, it is growing really fast. The next day I went out to do some more yardwork, I was already sore from mowing the day before because my mower's self propelling feature is broke. I promised myself that after I did some yardwork I would take some pictures. Yardwork can be a ZEN experience and I don't dislike doing it but I didn't really feel like doing it that day because I was sore and I couldn't wait to take pictures because that is more fun. There are all kinds of neat buds, blossoms, and flowers springing up around the yard. Anyway, here is one of the pictures I took of a white and yellow daffodil. The backlight was perfect and the low angle really gave it the look I was trying to capture. SUCCESS!!!

Feeding Squirrels

2009-04-17T18:00:00.014-04:00

A great way to get close enough to squirrels to capture good shots of them is to feed them peanuts in the shell. It gives you plenty of time to observe them and as they realize that you want to keep feeding them and not hurt them, they will 'pose' for you and maybe even eat out of your hand. If you are a photographer and/or an animal lover, this is great fun!
I came across this neat 'squirrel' video, it's about 5 minutes long.....

Check out this mama squirrel teaching her baby how to climb a wall......

Give A Squirrel A Helping Hand @ Yahoo! Video

Hopeful...Spring weather is coming.....

2009-03-20T18:29:00.005-04:00

Well I've been trying to update my blog with a new post for several weeks. Just couldn't seem to get it together. Well here I am with a new post on this official first day of Spring. We had a few nice days, what a welcome thing! Tuesday, St. Patrick's Day felt more like a real spring day than today. Even though it is colder today, I noticed some buds on my lilac bush and on a tree in my yard and lots of new shoots coming up. I didn't feel like taking a picture, (I know that is so unlike me) but looking through my archives I found this awesome picture I took of my grandson looking at flowers, in front of the Rock Hall, at the end of summer in 2007. It is a happy, pretty picture and to me is HOPE of beautiful new life that is already starting to grow! Hope you enjoy as much as me!

Who Is Watching You?

2009-02-06T03:18:00.004-05:00

You Never Know.

...and YES - this was a real live owl, at a sportsman show in Toronto.

HOWEVER - my DREAM photo of an owl, will be one in its natural habitat!

Dreaming of Summer

2009-01-21T19:33:00.007-05:00

On this cold January day, I can't seem to get warm, especially my feet. The room where my computer is, is very drafty. The cold air pours in and my feet are like ice cubes. I've tried several remedies, including extra socks, boots, plastic bags, blankets, space heaters, you name it. A friend told me to get a pair of Uggs (made in Australia) and lined with sheepskin. You are supposed to wear them without socks. They are very expensive, I am going to buy a pair when I have some extra money. By the time I have the money, it will probably be summer...rofl!
We even weather stripped around the door last year. The house is old and the frosty air still sneaks in, it's almost as if it is an entity and has a mind of its own. SO - I am dreaming of summer, sunny beaches, warm breezy air, the sound of seagulls and waves rolling in, and walking in the warm sand barefoot, looking for seashells, beach glass and whatever other treasure might be there for the taking. This picture, although it is a still life in a studio setting, helps me to conjure up those memories. Hopefully it will help you too.

Shoveling snow and stray cats.

2009-01-11T23:00:00.007-05:00

Well I shoveled a lot of snow yesterday and today, and I'm really sore. I was too tired and too cold to take pictures so I came inside to get warm and take a rest. When I got my energy back it was too dark. So no snow pictures this time around. I was looking through my files of snow pictures from last year to post, but nothing struck my fancy. Then I remembered when we had our first snow in December of 2007, about 2 weeks before Christmas, Miss Kitty was out in the snow. She was acting bewildered and I got the feeling she never saw snow before. So of course I took some pictures of her trying to hide from the snow, she peaked her head out of her hiding place and I captured this one. She was a stray that just appeared out of nowhere one day three months earlier. She wasn't afraid of me and kept coming around whenever I went out to the front of the house. I ignored her for a few days and then I couldn't help myself, I started talking to her, petting her and feeding her. I didn't want the cost and responsibility of another animal, and I already had and still have a dog. So I took some really good pictures of her, (not the one shown here), and made a little 'found cat' flier and hung it up at several places, but no one ever claimed her. I called every animal shelter in the area and surrounding areas, no one was taking cats because they were overflowing with strays. So we ended up keeping her. She is at my boyfriend's house with his cat. He didn't want another animal either. BTW - both cats tolerate Faith, my dog, and I think they are even starting to like her a little, she's always trying to check them out, and of course gets really jealous when I pay attention to them instead of her.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T05:38:00.000-05:00

Words.....

Christmas Eve Is Here

2008-12-24T15:05:00.004-05:00

I make my own card every Christmas. This year's just got done but won't be mailed on time. I wasn't going to make them because I was low on funds and low on time. I talked to a friend from Florida yesterday and he said, I can't wait to see your card, I look forward to them. At that moment I thought I have to make them, I can't let him down. I enjoy doing them and now I realize many people look forward to them. This is a card that I made for Christmas 2006. It is one of my favorites. This one is a mixed media collage. I photographed it and put the finishing touches on it in photoshop. Enjoy! Merry Christmas and don't forget to count your BLESSINGS! For anyone who celebrates Chanukah or Kwanza or any other tradition at this time of the year, may your holiday season be filled with joy and love!

Cleveland's Christmas Lighting Ceremony

2008-12-10T20:49:00.004-05:00

It is always exciting to see the lighting ceremony in Cleveland......a flick of the switch and pubic square is transformed into a fantasy land of beautiful colors and dazzling designs. It is mesmerizing.

Halloween antics.

2008-12-08T07:25:00.006-05:00

Even though Halloween was a little over a month ago, I felt compelled to post this.
My grandson (with white face, a vampire minus his cape and fangs), and some of his friends (they already ditched their costumes), hamming it up on Halloween. This one really is priceless! I couldn't resist putting the bubble caption on.

The Last Day of November

2008-11-30T17:16:00.006-05:00

Well...it's raining and cold outside. In 21 days the Solstice will occur and it will officially be winter. If you are like me, you will have to rely on memories and look at photos from summer and fall to help you get through the winter. Not to say that winter doesn't have its blessings too, but it's not one of my favorites. One of the blessings are the holiday gatherings with family and friends. Another blessing is getting magical pictures after a fresh snow or ice storm. And of course there are winter sports like cross country and downhill skiing to make up for the lack of warmth and sun. But still, winter will never be my favorite season.
If for no other reason, I hate driving in snow and ice and I hate cleaning my car off.
As I was looking at this picture, it filled me with 'warm' memories. It is one of several that I took while at Catawba Point in the late summer. It is a very contemplative sort of picture to me. I hope you find that quality in it also!

A Day For Gratitude

2008-11-27T11:31:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!
We should be grateful every day but today is a good day to practice for the other 364 days of the year. I often have to remind myself that no matter how difficult things get, I always have something to be grateful for. Sometime I have to consciously think about it, but then I think of one or more things and that puts everything back in perspective. Have a Blessed Day!

Ivy, what it represents to me.

2008-11-07T01:32:00.006-05:00

I was looking through a folder of pictures that I had recently taken, for today's post and I came across this one. It gave me a feeling of serenity. Maybe ivy is also equated with tenacity and proliferation. It keeps growing even if you accidentally mow it down. I am posting it because it is a personal symbol for me of serenity, strength and not to give up when things are tough. It will be an outward and visible sign that I want serenity in my life and that I will continually possess the qualities of strength and tenacity. And from a personal growth standpoint, that I will never lose the desire to keep learning new things.

Doggie in the window

2008-10-28T15:24:00.011-04:00

Remember that song "How much is that doggie in the window, the one with the waggedy tail"? I loved that song when I was little and every time I see a dog in a window, even if it isn't for sale, that song replays in my mind. I took this picture of my doggie in the window, Faith (husky-collie mix), through my back door window in the summer of 2004, shortly after I rescued her from the Geauga County Animal Shelter, through a listing on petfinder.org and Jim Blum's Folk Music Show on weekend evenings on WKSU-FM (89.7). I love the look on her face, she was watching me take pictures of my patio garden and looking at me as if to say, "please let me come outside and play". I cropped it and digitally 'painted' it and here is my portrait of my "doggie in the window"!

Variations On A Theme

2008-10-28T02:52:00.003-04:00

I love the art of collage. Taking pieces parts and making something new. For me, like most of my artistic endeavors, it is a very intuitive process. The process becomes a journey. The journey becomes a meditation. The meditation becomes a new creation.
This piece is a variation on a theme. The theme is randomness. It keeps evolving.

It's time for ghosts, goblins and vampires!

2008-10-22T18:09:00.003-04:00

Well it's that time again, ghosts, goblins, vampires and who knows what else will be roaming the streets trick or treating, hopefully just looking for treats, not trying to play tricks. But kids will be kids, so beware! My grandson is going to be a Vampire this year...I will post his picture as soon as I take it on Halloween. I'm sure he'll be blood sucking cute, of course I am a little biased...LOL!
Enjoy the season...I should say seasons because they'll all be here, one right after the other. The time of year to have fun, reflect, give thanks, reconnect with friends and loved ones, maybe make amends....

The delights of autumn!

2008-10-14T18:46:00.004-04:00

Pumpkin bread, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin pie, pumpkin bisque, pumpkin seeds, and jack o' lanterns. Whatever the sight of pumpkins conjures up, the season is here. I took this photo of these lovely pumpkins at a roadside stand about a month ago when we were up at Catawba Island for the weekend. They had all kinds of good stuff here, I'm getting hungry just thinking about it. In the background of this photo you can see the row of bushel baskets overflowing with fresh ears of corn. We bought a dozen and they were so good, especially dripping with the fresh Amish butter we bought down the road at the cheese place. Of course we also bought 3 different kinds of fresh Amish cheese too. It was a high calorie weekend but hey, you have to splurge once in awhile!

Design for the season...

2008-10-11T01:03:00.002-04:00

Fall is upon us and the leaves are changing into the palette of autumnal colors. This annual occurance has inspired me to paint this digital design. I selected a maple leaf from my photo archives and this is what I came up with.
We are kind of into our Indian Summer in northeast Ohio, several counties have experience their first frost. Although we are finding temperatures in the mid forties over night, the next several days will be sunny and in the low seventies.
Since gas prices are down a little, you might want to fill up your tank and take a little sightseeing excursion through some rural areas a little south of Cleveland and experience the magnificent colors of the turning foliage.

Sunset From Catawba Point

2008-09-24T17:07:00.011-04:00

Since I talked about the sunset that I photographed in today's earlier post from 12:54 am, (which was actually my yesterday's post, posted late because I kept falling asleep as per usual by my computer), I figured it was only right to share it. It was a nice view after the blah rainy weather we had for the previous 24 hours. For any viewers who are not from this part of the country, or world for that matter, Catawba Point is in Ottawa County near Port Clinton, Ohio, (USA), and is part of the resort area know as The Lake Erie Islands. It is a very scenic place as you can see. It is not far from Cedar Point, one of the most popular amusement parks in the country. Make sure you look at the earlier post, "Parkbench At Catawba Point" because it relates to this post.

Parkbench at Catawba Point

2008-09-24T00:54:00.004-04:00

The weekend before last we went to Catawba Point. It rained Friday and half of Saturday, then finally the rain stopped and the rest of the weekend wasn't too bad. We had a beautiful view of the lake and there was even a half way decent sunset. I got a few shots of the sunset and as I was heading back I noticed that this ornate iron parkbench was really lit nice by the setting sun. This is one of the shots I took of it. It was so peaceful being there with just the sound of the waves rolling in.

Ground Music

2008-09-15T20:45:00.002-04:00

Everything vibrates at its own frequency, therefore music is everywhere, even in the silence. In the shadows and in the light, in the air and on the ground......listen and you might hear its sound!

Still Randomly Rolling...

2008-09-10T15:48:00.005-04:00

This randomness thing is getting out of control....becoming obsessive......but been coming up with some cool abstracts!
This of course is "Randomness 3".

Still More Randomness...

2008-09-03T17:12:00.008-04:00

I am on a randomness roll....I guess Kim's blog tag with the randomness theme inspired me or I'm being obsessive compulsive or I just need to create randomness, is that an oxymoron? Can you create randomess? Who cares?
There isn't always rhyme or reason to what's inside our subconscious....it is in there and it has to come out. Getting deep...LOL!
Here is Randomness 2

More on Randomness...

2008-09-02T12:52:00.008-04:00

On my previous post TAG....You are IT! I was tagged by Kim from Monaco Designs. The theme was randomness. We were to list 6 random things about ourselves and tag six other people on their blogs and ask them to do the same. I tried not to give this too much thought and picked things that popped into my mind. Of course, while participating in the "GAME OF TAG" I was pondering what randomness means. Being a creative person, one of the best ways to express myself is through my art. My pondering led to the creation of a series aptly titled Randomness. The first in the series "Randomness 1" is shown above. It is a digital painting and will probably end up on a canvas as a giclee.

TAG....You are IT!

2008-08-28T14:48:00.004-04:00

Randomness....
I've been tagged!!

I've officially been 'tagged' by Kim from Monaco Designs

Here are the rules:
1. Link to the person who tagged you
2. Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)
3. Write 6 random things about yourself (see below)
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them (This is only a game)
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up

ok... this is actually harder than I thought!! hmmmm.....
Six Random Things About Me:

1. I only like shopping when I have money to spend, so therefore I hate window shopping.
2. I don't like that I'm unable to fix my 'being late most of the time' problem.
3. I love Art and Art History! I love that I am a creative person.
4. I love the smell of fresh pine and cedar trees, the real thing.
5. I love coffee. A good cup of java is so good for the tummy and the soul!
6. I can tread water, float and swim (but don't have the stamina of an Olympic swimmer)

ok... now I'm tagging six more people! Can't wait to read what you have to say...
Terri

Kim of Monaco Desings
Patricia of Clay Mouse Studio
Tracie of Tracie's Tri Adventures
Paula from Lake Erie Artists
Kathleen from Liquid Sky Arts
Paula from Reflections Under The Bodhi Tree

ART

2008-08-27T11:58:00.006-04:00

QUOTE OF THE DAY
"There are painters who transform the sun to a yellow spot, but there are others who with the help of their art and their intelligence, transform a yellow spot into the sun."
— Pablo Picasso: was a Spanish Artist and Painter.

Floral Abstracts

2008-08-11T21:23:00.003-04:00

This floral abstract is an exploration in digital painting. I started with a shot that I took of the inside of a tulip, one of my favorite spring flowers. I then painted and played in photoshop until I got what I visualized in my mind's eye. I am extremely happy with the result. I find it very intense and energizing. I am planning to put this on a large canvas.

Art and spirituality

2008-08-08T23:59:00.005-04:00

I get inspired in many different ways, and many times art connects me to the realm of Spirit and Wholeness. Very often the creative experience is very intuitive. I was playing around with an image I shot of a very colorful mobile in the shape of a spiral. I like the shape of a spiral, it is a great symbol of eternity, maybe even the energy of the soul. I took the spiral and transformed it into a pattern of ovals, and even though it doesn't look like the original spiral it still has the essence of spiraling. It has become a mandala for me.

man·da·la [muhn-dl-uh] -noun
1. Oriental Art. a schematized representation of the cosmos, chiefly characterized by a concentric configuration of geometric shapes, each of which contains an image of a deity or an attribute of a deity.
2. (in Jungian psychology) a symbol representing the effort to reunify the self.
[Origin: 1855-60; Sanskrit]
Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006.

Symbols can be universal or personal. A personal symbol can mean something special to just one person. Maybe this image will become a personal transformative symbol for you.

The Month of August

2008-08-06T16:57:00.007-04:00

Okay, it is August 6th and I just realized I haven't posted anything this month yet, so here is my first one.
AUGUST - 8th Month Of The Year
August is a good month, summer is winding down and the cooler temperatures of fall will soon be upon us, but there is still some time for seasonal outdoor activities. Maybe camping, canoeing, cycling or horseback riding, a backyard barbecue or roasting marshmallows by a campfire. Or how about a hike in one of your favorite city parks. In Cleveland, OHIO we are blessed with a beautiful System of Metroparks also known as The Emerald Necklace for the way they drape around the greater Cleveland area in the shape of a necklace, each one a gem with many things to see and discover. Hiking Trail Locations They are my favorite places to go for a quick nature fix. If you haven't been to one lately, here is a reminder to do so! Of course you can go any time of the year!
I'm rediscovering how much fun it is to take a child to the park. I used to take my daughter when she was little, now I have the opportunity to take my grandson Bobby. He loves the park and all the creepy crawlers that you can find there. Here is a pic of him from our most recent trip earlier in the summer. He is hamming it up in front of the frog sculpture at The Rocky River Reservation Interpretive Center.

The Last Day of July!

2008-07-31T20:29:00.000-04:00

Fireworks, fireflies, blueberry pies, a fresh fruit salad, barbecues, a cold brew, ice cream cones, lemonade, graduation parties, or Christmas in July, whatever images or memories the month of July conjures up, I hope you had a good one this year!
These fireworks are some of my memories!

Sunflowers

2008-07-29T19:20:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that July is almost over. It seems like time is speeding up! Anyway, I'm pondering what kind of flowers are growing at this time of the year and thought about sunflowers. These have got to be some of the coolest flowers, they are so tall and seem to almost have a 'personality'. Well of course I have several of these in my archives. This is one that I liked a lot and have revisited and added some texture to it.

Art and Accounting....what's this?

2008-07-24T16:24:00.001-04:00

Today's What The Duck Comic Strip.
Anyone who is an Artist will appreciate this one! If you aren't viewing this on the original post date go back to archives and look for #527 for July 24, 2008.
Art and Accounting are like Oil and Vinegar, they don't mix!
Besides, it is more fun creating art than crunching numbers.
Here is a shot I took at Lorain County Metroparks, Sandy Ridge Reservation, shortly before sunset. I got frustrated working on my bookkeeping, so I went out and took pictures instead...LOL! Yes, that is the moon rising. I seem to be lucky and capture a lot of moonrises. I have to make up for not getting any sunrises. What's a sunrise?.....another LOL!

Moonrise at Monument Valley, Arizona

2008-07-21T20:33:00.001-04:00

There are some places on this planet that no matter how they are described by words or pictures, their true essence can not truly be known unless you experience them directly in person. Monument Valley is one of those places, especially at moonrise. With that being said, I am still going to try to find some words that will at least come close. Sublime, timeless, eternal, grand, magnificent, wow! You just have to be there and absorb it all. If you have an opportunity to visit, I would highly recommend along with several other places in the great state of Arizona, like The Grand Canyon and Sedona.

Buds and Bloom

2008-07-19T23:20:00.001-04:00

Beautiful, pink, lovely, sublime! No matter what words you choose to describe it, a rose is a 'poem' of nature that speaks to the soul!

Great Blue Heron

2008-07-18T05:13:00.000-04:00

The Great Blue Heron is one of my favorite birds. They are so majestic and really neat to watch. This one was taken at Put in Bay while we were waiting for the boat to take us over to Gibralter Island. It was sitting on the dock and I was able to get within six feet of him. He wasn't afraid and sat there and posed for me. It was awesome because I've been waiting to get a picture like this for over 30 years. I got several good ones. It was hard to choose.

Another Cleveland Photo

2008-07-14T22:57:00.000-04:00

"West Bank at Dusk" - The Flats, Cleveland, Ohio. I had to capture this magnificent sky at sunset and the reflections in the river!

Wall-E and Bobby

2008-07-13T00:47:00.001-04:00

Ever Since I saw a movie trailer about 4 months ago about a really cute looking junkyard robot, I've been wanting to see Wall-E.
I immediately knew that it would be a great movie to see with my soon to be 8 years old, grandson. We went to see it on July 2nd downtown at the theater in Tower City since I had to drop off some of my greeting cards at Lake Erie Artists' Gallery. It is an animated sci-fi that takes place 700 years into the future. It has all the elements of a great flick, great visual effects, good sound track, humor and it is very thought provoking. And of course Wall-e is a hero and helps save the planet by compacting junk and finding love along the way.
After the movie we walked around and experienced the hustle and bustle of the pre holiday festivities that were underway. I had to get my camera out of my car and while we were walking back up to Tower City Centre, I was taking pictures of Bobby, who is one of my ongoing favorite subjects to photograph. These were taken in the parking garage, which I am discovering is a really cool place to take pictures. I would describe it as a subterranean odyssey of concrete and metal. Kind of a continuation of Wall-E's environment.

Watch Wall-E Trailer

2008-07-04T15:34:00.000-04:00

Today is a good day to celebrate our freedom and also to give THANKS to all our troops who are sacrificing for us, and not forget the ones who gave their lives for us!

Don't get used to a name, it might change!

2008-06-24T20:51:00.000-04:00

This goes to show that nothing stays the same, especially a name. We have three newer sports venues in Cleveland. Two of them don't have their original names. I guess that is one of the many reasons I am a photographer, always something new to photograph! Here is the newly named Home of The Cleveland Indians.

Cleveland has some great architecture!

2008-05-30T11:49:00.000-04:00

The Federal Court House is a very fascinating architectural work. I've been photographing it from many different angles. Some of my shots have it incorporated into the Cleveland Skyline, like the one shown in the previous post below. This particular shot was taken from right in the front from Huron looking straight up. I intentionally used a wider angle to get this unique perspective. I chose not to get the very bottom of the building because I didn't want the sculpture to be lost. I think it has a nice counterbalance to the unique roof line. And yes, that little white thing on the right about a third of the way up is the moon.

Shooting at sunset...

2008-05-28T16:02:00.000-04:00

Last Friday evening I was doing a photo assignment and I needed some inspiration. I was cold and hungry and I wasn't getting the desired results that I was trying to capture. I was shooting, walking, observing, shooting some more, walking some more, observing some more, deciding to stay or go and then the sun started its magic with the magnificent light it provides for such a short duration. I didn't give up, I stayed and kept shooting and it paid off! This image above is one of my rewards!

Federal Court House and Reflection at Sunset
Cleveland, Ohio

Amidst the tension of rush hour...

2008-05-15T22:17:00.000-04:00

Maybe it is because we go all winter without seeing any flowers that we are so drawn to the first flowers of spring. First the crocus, then daffodils, and then the tulips, so many pretty petals dancing in the wind. And just peak inside and you will find the neatest design. A few weeks ago, I stopped at a gas station in the middle of the noisy city in the middle of a chaotic rush hour and lo and behold, I found a reprieve from it all. While I was filling up my car, I was watching the tulips dancing in the wind, beckoning to me. Of course I had to walk over and take a closer look and take some pictures. It took me away for 15 minutes from all the noise and gave me back some balance & peace. So now I want to share.

When Art and Science meet!

2008-05-08T15:13:00.001-04:00

When Art and Science meet!

It never ceases to amaze me what flows out of the minds of creative thinkers!

See these awesome mandalas and Zen like images created by using Algorithmic Art, by Jean-Pierre Hebert a 68 year old French artist now working as Artist-in Residence at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at UC Santa Barbara, California.

Jean-Pierre Hebert Algorithmic Art

Change

2008-04-23T10:22:00.000-04:00

Quote of the Day
Whosoever desires constant success must change his conduct with the times.
Niccolo Machiavelli

Is spring really here?

2008-04-19T19:19:00.001-04:00

This is a neat time of the year. It is a new season, full of hope. I guess the changing of the seasons is a good thing, a necessary thing, because it reminds us that everything cycles and comes full circle. Things have to die for new life to begin. We survived another winter so that we may enjoy another spring. If we need to undergo a transformation, wether it be to rid ourself of a negative habit, exercise more, go back to school or take up a new hobby, whatever we need to do to keep evolving, we know that we must shed our old self, to find our new self.

Today's Quotes

2008-04-16T15:10:00.000-04:00

Quote of the Day
Be faithful to that which exists within yourself.
Andre Gide

Follow Your Bliss!
Joseph Campbell

Success is working hard, living right, dreaming big, and being the best we can be.
A. Tennille

Stormy Nights

2008-04-15T21:02:00.000-04:00

You've probably heard the phrase Every cloud has a silver lining! Well, stormy nights have silver linings also, except they are disguised as photo opportunities if you are so inclined to look for them. Some of the best pictures are shot in adverse weather conditions. So another lesson that I learned from being a photographer, everything that happens that seems like it is a challenge or painful or a struggle, has some hidden element that causes us to evolve, get stronger or capture an awesome moment, like I did in the above photo - "North Coast Harbor On A Stormy Night"

Terri's philosophy lesson for the day!

North Coast Windmill...A 'Green' Work of Art

2008-04-10T16:55:00.000-04:00

When I shot this image, I was in awe of it's quiet but sublime beauty. It is functional, good for the environment and a Sculpture, all at the same time. How cool is that! And it is right here for all to observe, on our beautiful North Coast of Cleveland.

My quote for today!
I am glad that I paid so little attention to good advice; had I abided by it I might have been saved from some of my most valuable mistakes.
Edna St. Vincent Millay

My Art Quote For Today and always, really!

2008-04-05T18:10:00.002-04:00

"I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free."
Michelangelo Buonarroti

This help's explain the intuitive process that many artists experience when in the creative zone. I've experienced it so it is second nature for me. I hope this helps anyone who is a non-artist to glean a little understanding of the creative process. A thought just came to me though, that it might be futile to try to explain, it may just have to be experienced. So maybe that is why we have such wonderful places all over the world to visit that we call Art Museums. So the observer can maybe experience a brief minute glimpse of the AWE.

My Art Show Opening Is Today!

2008-04-03T14:00:00.000-04:00

April 3, 2008 - Thursday evening 6pm - 8pm

Opening Reception for a show by Terri Harper. Her realistic still lifes, landscapes, Cleveland scenes and floral photographs will be on display through April 27th.

"Chicago Street Musician" Shown on left, is one of my new featured images. I photograph people too. LOL!

Gallery Hours
Monday - Saturday 10am - 7pm
Sunday 12noon - 6pm

Lake Erie Artists Gallery
Tower City
230 W. Huron Rd. #72-08
Cleveland, OH 44113
(216) 664-9920
www.lakeerieartists.com

Lake Erie Artists Gallery is located in Tower City Center on Level M1, (which is the same level as the fountains), next to The Sweet Factory Candy Store.

Parking is available in the Tower City Center Garage at a reduced rate (after 4 p.m.) The entrance is on Huron, at Ontario across from the Quicken Loans Arena.

Believe and You Will See

2008-04-02T11:45:00.001-04:00

I will let this new post speak for itself. Well almost...I have to say a little....I wrote the verse in 2002 as I was pondering the meaning of believing and seeing instead of seeing and believing, I was looking for an appropriate image to put it with, I finally came up with this picture of marigolds that I took in front of the north entrance of the new Cleveland Browns stadium, laying on my stomach on the ground, so I could make the small bed of marigolds, look as big as a field of sunflowers. It is all perspective....so this is just another lesson in all things are possible and when you believe it you will see it!

Mermaids By The Pond

2008-03-13T00:42:00.000-04:00

Mermaids are believed to be mythological but there is always some truth in myth, it just depends on how you define truth. A myth can have many levels of symbolism and meaning, and you can always find some truth when you delve into peeling away the layers. All the religions of the world have stories, myths and ideologies that have commom threads that show up over and over again in cultures all over the planet since history has been recorded...things that we can connect with in our innermost beings....if we listen to and recognize them. So - my photo of the mermaids sculpture was taken by water, at a really neat place, a place that has a lot of truth, beauty and symbolism, The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Renovation

2008-02-24T15:43:00.000-05:00

Well - Spring will be here soon, hopefully, and that means it is a good time to clean and get rid of stuff, getting rid of stuff is very hard for me, anyone who knows me, knows how hard it is for me to throw anything away! So when we clean and purge, we can begin anew, we can renovate, give our home a face lift, modernize, brighten things up, and beautify. However you define it, it is good for you and good for your soul. I chose a picture to post that I titled "Tower Under Repair" which I took last summer. It reminds me that renovating is a constant process, you can always find something, somewhere that is being changed or fixed. In this image you can see the scaffolding on the Terminal Tower, (Cleveland, Ohio) even so there is still beauty to be seen. The picture was shot during the time right before dusk, when everything is painted with the 'sweet light'. It makes everything pretty and really accentuates texture in buildings and objects. Being a photographer has many blessings.....a big one for me is how it helps me connect to my environment, people and to my inner self, and sometimes even helps me solve conflicts.

Artistic and Unique greeting cards

2008-02-07T00:45:00.000-05:00

Need an artistic, unique or original greeting card for that someone special? Visit Lake Erie Artist's new on line card store. Featuring the talent of local Cleveland artists.
Featured are greeting cards with fine art photos and reproductions of original drawings and paintings of Cleveland scenes, Lake Erie, architecture, nature and much much more......
Shown above is one of my images that you can purchase at the online store.

The Art & Science of Origami

2008-01-24T16:11:00.000-05:00

Visit this link for a look at a unique use of the Art of Origami...really terrific!
Origami created by a scientist
Being a creative person myself, I am always amazed at what other people come up with!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-03T13:38:00.000-05:00

"SNOWBIRD"
Happy New Year! This picture I took in the late winter of 2007 amazed me when I looked at it on screen. It looked like a bird carved out of snow. So I did some photoshop magic and added a beak, an eye and extended the tail. I thought this would be a good image that shows that all things are possible if we are willing to try and adapt.

Last Day of the Year

2007-12-31T21:01:00.000-05:00

Where did 2007 go? I swear time is speeding up! Well as the last few hours tick away, I am reflecting on the past year. I am posting this shot of the Mackinac Bridge. I rendered it as a kind of a surreal fantasy. I think it is a good symbol to connect 2007 to 2008...looking back...looking ahead...as we cross the threshold of time.....what is this construct we call time anyway....many of us are drawn to watching a ball drop, as we count down the moments....being a creature of habit...I will probably be watching it again....ringing in the new....a fresh chance to start over and make a list of resolutions.....as I remember and cherish my old acquaintances and look forward to new ones.

Crashes, chaos.....and serenity.....maybe

2007-12-21T01:03:00.002-05:00

Well it has been way too long since I put up a new post. I'm really out of sync... my computer crashed big time. It is still not running up to par. Sometimes computer tech sucks. Oh well....in the 60's and 70's we used to crash now our computers crash......it's quite bad that we depend on these machines like we do......so my brain is getting fried because of this and I need some serenity so I am posting a picture titled "Serenity". I like to ponder the beauty, complexity, and simplicity of nature. Out of chaos comes order... gee...where did I hear that before.....out of complexity comes simplicity....makes sense to me anyway...so I guess that's all that matters.....enough bull for now.......

Transformation

2007-11-28T16:16:00.000-05:00

The title of this digital 'painting' is "Transformation". It is a piece that I've completed recently. The work is aptly titled because I am undergoing a transformation of sorts.
Following are some of my thoughts while reflecting on this painting. We are continually evolving. Through the process we usually experience a gradual transformation. But there comes a certain point at which a quantum leap occurs and we are catapulted through a 'gateway'. I feel that Transformation is my gateway piece that will take much of my art in a new direction. I have done several other abstract works but this one has more of a painterly quality to it. While I was working on it, I felt something different or new taking place in the creative process.

Zen

2007-11-19T21:10:00.000-05:00

"The Zen of Trees"

The Zen of a Photograph - being what it is or maybe what it is not.
Right now there is nothing else to say except this: A picture is worth a thousand words!

More on inspiration.....

2007-11-13T23:09:00.000-05:00

This is a continuance on inspiration. Today I've been inspired by music, many different kinds. I am listening to my top rated category in my iTunes while I do work on my computer. The eclectic blend is really rejuvenating, for my creativity and my spirit. There seem to be many ways to get inspired. Music, poetry, nature, art....yes, even artists need to view art, other than their own to get inspired.....

I just went to the Artists Of Cleveland website and saw some work by several local artists and sure enough I received some inspiration, and I am also thinking of joining, seems like a valuable resource. Another valuable resource for inspiration is our wonderful world renowned Cleveland Museum of Art. Even though the museum is under renovation and their permanent collections are temporarily closed, you can still visit for special exhibitions. Check their website for schedules of upcoming exhibits.

Inspiration

2007-11-12T21:46:00.000-05:00

"When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all your thoughts break their bonds; Your mind transcends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction, and you find yourself in a new, great and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive, and you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be." Patanjali (First to Third Century B.C.) The author of Yoga Sutras. Patanjali resided in India and is thought to be the person who established the tradition of meditation.

Inspiration by Lord Patanjali - Legendary Notes
www.geocities.com/livelifeuwant/Legn_Notes_Inspiration.html

Yoga Journal - Yoga Meditation - Words of Inspiration
www.yogajournal.com/practice/

Communication, blogging...

2007-11-11T00:07:00.000-05:00

Communicating is a basic human need. In our fast paced lifestyles, we may not have as much time as we would like to sit with a friend over a good cup of coffee or tea and engage in a stimulating conversation. Art, literature, music and poetry are other forms of communication, although our main objective may be self expression with communication being secondary. Blogging is an excellent way to communicate and express yourself at the same time. Whether it be sharing an idea, a photograph or poem, posting a comment on someone else's blog or reading a comment someone left on your own blog, it is all readily available in the world of blogging. Last but certainly not least, you can share fun things like links to cool sites like this.
http://www.braingle.com
where you can find free brainteasers, riddles, puzzles and more.

Networking

2007-11-09T01:59:00.001-05:00

Shown above is a newly completed still life in black and white with selective spot coloring. It will be available at Lake Erie Artists Gallery http://www.lakeerieartists.com in Tower City.
I've been thinking about the importance of networking because it is another form of marketing. There are more and more networking resources becoming available to artists. Two of the ones that I have checked out recently and have seriously considered joining are The Cose Arts Network http://www.cosearts.org and the Red Dot Project http://www.reddotproject.org The feedback from members has been very positive.

November 7, 2007

2007-11-07T18:22:00.000-05:00

Today is kind of cold, trying to get used to this wintery weather that is just about upon us, well we got the holidays to look forward to, or Not, depending on how you look at it......I will look forward and try to be in the Spirit of the Season......posted is a picture of what Bobby looks like without the Ninja Warrior Costume.......He is so cute....of course I am biased......Well stay warm everyone!!!

November 3, 2007

2007-11-03T15:03:00.001-04:00

Today is a beautiful autumn day. Not even that cold. I thought I would post this shot of some colorful oak leaves. It is something good to meditate on or just enjoy the beauty of!

November 1, 2007

2007-11-01T20:26:00.000-04:00

Well yesterday was Halloween and ghosts and goblins were roaming the streets. Along with them was my grandson who wasn't a pirate or Spiderman, he was a Ninja Warrior. He had fun and acquired a lot of candy of course. That should make his dentist mad or happy depending on how you look at it. LOL! Well anyway the adults had a good time too, passing out candy while Bobby's daddy took him trick or treating, and we drank some wine and had some awesome homemade pot roast stew from Angela's Kitchen!!! Life is good......
Today I'm still working on redesigning my website among other tasks. Got some fresh air and exercise too.

Tuesday October 30, 2007

2007-10-30T19:38:00.000-04:00

It is definitely autumn....pretty and a little warmer today than yesterday - but knowing that a long cold winter lies ahead...I'm dreaming about tropical islands, sunny beaches and margaritas.....Halloween is tomorrow, it will be neat seeing my grandson Bobby all dressed up like a pirate or maybe Spiderman or who knows who...I guess I'll just have to wait and see.....

Monday October 29, 2007

2007-10-29T22:36:00.000-04:00

Well today is/was a regular Monday depending on what time zone you are in.....nothing good nothing bad just regular...that is okay because it gives you something to compare with the good days and the bad days! That is my little bit of philosophy for the day...

Sunday October 28, 2007 (afternoon)

2007-10-28T15:28:00.000-04:00

Okay - I tried uploading the 'problem' image from a different place than here (above icon) and this time I got it to upload. At least I solved this problem!

Sunday October 28, 2007

2007-10-28T13:41:00.000-04:00

Well - it is 12:44 p.m. and I got a lot done so far today. That is good. I'm new at this blogging stuff so I am at a loss for words, which of course is not the norm for me. I am trying to post a picture and it didn't work, I got an error message so I have to go figure it out. Maybe after I do I'll have more to say. Also, I have a lot of work to do but I am having a hard time getting motivated.