Friday, October 16, 2009

Odds & Ends


I recently treated myself to a dozen yellow roses and put a few in a vase by my bed. I stopped buying fresh flowers when I got my cats a few years ago because I figured they would knock them over or chew them up. Turns out I was right-- I came home from work to find the vase upside down, water everywhere and the roses on the floor. But the good news is after my kitty got it out of his system, he didn't do it again. So I guess I have no excuse for keeping fresh flowers around :o)


This is my creative space. It's a tiny table in the corner of my bedroom crowded with art supplies and books. I keep saying I'm going to clean it up and reorganize it, but I never get around to it. The funny thing is, the space seems to work for me-- I've made lots and lots of art there. I find that funny because at my day job as a technical writer, I can't work in a messy space so I keep my desk spotless. But when I do my technical writing work at home, I'm more productive in my messy little space than anywhere else in my home.


This is my latest ATC for a California-themed swap. I used my water color paints for the first time (thanks
Katharine !) to make the background and enjoyed it so much. I was nervous about using them because I didn't think I knew how, but now that I've taken the first step I can't wait to play with those paints some more.


This is one of my favorite places to walk near my home. It's a paved trail that runs parallel to the Guadalupe River. I usually see lots of birds, like Belted Kingfishers, egrets, herons, and hummingbirds. For some reason this particular walk really gets my creative juices going, and I often get new ideas for creative projects when I walk here.


The trail goes to Almaden Lake. Isn't it gorgeous? It might look like I live in the country, but I actually live in a bustling suburban valley surrounded by mountains and open space.


I finished knitting my
Purl Bee dishcloth. It turned out okay ... not quite what I expected. I'm not sure I'll knit another one.


Looks more interesting on the wrong side.


While taking an evening stroll recently, I encountered a mama raccoon and two babies. Of course, I had to run home and grab my camera, even though it was night time and there was no chance of getting a decent picture of the little family. All I got was a shining pair of eyes. I've lived in my neighborhood for fourteen years, and this was only the fourth time I've seen raccoons. It excites me to see wildlife in my neighborhood.


Do you have any special weekend plans? I have lots of housekeeping to do and hope to squeeze in a pedicure, too. NetFlix was kind enough to send me two movies that I think will be really good-- The Proposal with Sandra Bullock and My Life in Ruins with Nia Vardalos (remember her from My Big Fat Greek Wedding?). Have a wonderful weekend and talk to you soon!

10 comments:

Thimbleanna said...

Boy, you sure live in a beautiful area! Looks like you've been busy. Have fun watching your movies -- we enjoyed The Proposal!

Theresa said...

Love yellow roses and at least you enjoyed them before they got turned over:) Your scenery is just breathtaking and your card you created is so gorgeous! I am off to do a 5K charity walk this morning. YIKES:) Have a blessed day!

Unknown said...

Hi I've just stopped in for a visit and really enjoyed seeing your lovely blog .

Twyla and Lindsey said...

I loved seeing your creative space! I think your dishcloth turned out nice. Thanks for stopping by our Halloween party today! Have a magical weekend. Twyla

Dogwood said...

I have been watching for a new post from you. I love your blog. Those yellow roses are so pretty. Love you work space. And, you know your kitties are the sweetest. Have a fun weekend. I am off to pilates and then Grass Valley. Hugs...

Rachel said...

Ooohhh I like:
the roses
your work space
your card
the scenery
the kitties
and your dishcloth

I also like the idea of going for a good, head-clearing walk. Great idea!

Dogwood said...

Are you the "Comment Fairy?"

A Spoonful Of Sugar said...

I am a bit obsessive about keeping the house spotless - with the exception of my crafting area which is always messy - your space looks very productive - love that jar of buttons.

Suz said...

Hi, I followed Dogwood here, and glad I did. But I couldn't believe that I saw my two cats on your blog! You don't happen to have a grey tabby too, do you? Only kidding.
I have the same problem with flowers. I weigh a vase down with so many pennies they can't knock it over...they chew a few, get bored and leave me a few. Those dishcloths are the best.
I'll come and visit again.

Woollywotnots said...

Oh Wow, what an interesting post. The scenery where you live is amazing,Stacy. What a fantastic place to enjoy lovely long walks and spot wildlife. Your roses are lovely. I always enjoy fresh flowers, they brighten my day. Your creative space is fab. ATCs are great for it. Good to hear you've tried out the paints! : )