C Hummel Kornell, Artist, Photographer and Writer

This Post is Tess' Fault...

2012-01-19T09:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, Tess, you made me do this! BTW, everyone must check out Tess Kincaid's Blog, Willow Manor, to see what I am talking about.

In the meantime, I am sharing one of my little home maker experiments with you. As you all know, I love to cook and especially bake. A few days ago I decided to create my own bread recipe. I am an avid sour dough user and my starter is over 25 years old. When I crafted the recipe, I expected to complete it in my bread machine...NOT! The dough raised so high that it lifted the lid of the machine. I had to remove the dough and do the kneading by hand, completing the baking in the oven. (I always add nuts and seeds to my crusty breads. This one has pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds.) This loaf of bread was baked in the largest cast iron dutch oven I own and as you can see it outgrew it. At one point I was worried it was going to outgrow my oven! The end result was wonderful. We shared hot out of the oven bread slathered with melted butter. A wonderful snack for a snowy day. Let me know what you all think.

Winter Snow Dreamin'...

2012-01-14T10:02:00.000-08:00

Our front yard during our beautiful snowfall a few weeks ago. Excitement filled our hearts as we watched the snow accumulate to a depth where we could grab our snow shoes and head out. We located a wonderful trail only minutes from home where we spent the afternoon snowshoeing in the silent beauty. Why does hard exercise feel so much better when it's done in Nature's playground? Later, over a cup of chocolate we planned our upcoming return to this special area as our spirits soared.

Within days the Chinook blew in and melted the snow. Temperatures dropped to bone-chilling levels and our dreams dropped with them. Here we set, longing for the return of our winter. Is it global warming or simply a weather phenomenon?

Magpie 98...'Fateful Day'

2012-01-05T09:12:00.000-08:00

Image Courtesy Tess Kincaid

The river created a perfect mirror, reflecting the beauty of the day

Not so long ago it had flowed a different way

Torrents of rain fell early on high packed snow

Swelling the creeks and rivers below

Father took us to the banks to grapple for logs

The small kids played on the rocks with the dogs

While I watched Mother and Father work with the hook

I climbed a tree with my book

It sounded like approaching thunder

The tree beneath me quivered and fluttered

A wall of water rounded the bend and flowed into the eddy

I dropped my book and clung for dear life
As the water carried away my Father, his children and wife.

When the Moon Comes Over the Mountain...the Sun can't be far behind!

2011-12-27T09:38:00.000-08:00

I finally completed the set of leaded glass windows for my son and daughter-in-law (Chris and Kari) as their 'late' anniversary gift. I created the original sun design window to pair with the moon window Chris received for his birthday. The pair fill a double kitchen window and complete the remodel of their compact kitchen. They have utilized every square inch of storage space in the small room (note the shelf above the windows).

By the way, as a child I remember watching Kate Smith's t.v. show with my Mother. Kate sang the song 'When the Moon Comes Over the Mountain' at the opening of each show. Seemed an appropriate title for this posting. Hope you are all enjoying the final countdown to the new year.

Blessings to All for This Coming Christmas...

2011-12-24T07:50:00.000-08:00

Luke 2:11-14

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Wishing You All a Joyous Christmas and the Happiest of New Years.

Thanks for stopping by my blog and please come back often.

Magpie 96 - Christmas Memory

2011-12-22T10:07:00.000-08:00

Photo Courtesy of Tess Kincaid

This photo immediately reminded me of my Mother, who had long, dark hair and always wore a headscarf. It follows that thinking of her during this time of year would bring back childhood memories, so I have chosen to share one of those memories.

The memory is from Christmas when I was about four. My Father was one of eleven children born to Sidney Smith Hummel and Eva Sophia Suzannah (Geist) Hummel. At Christmas time all the children would come home to the four room cottage where their parents had completed their raising. At this time there remained ten of the eleven children, having lost an infant brother from the family. These ten children were all married except for three boys who were still living at home. The others were accompanied by spouses and many, many children. To say that the walls of the small home were bulging at the seams would be proper. The older children were all encouraged to play outside in the snow while the adults congregated inside. I remember a small enclosed porch where the icebox and storage area opened into the rectangular kitchen. This was the largest room in the house and was filled in the center with a gigantic oak table. At one end was a large cookstove with warming ovens and a hot water reservoir. A teakettle was always kept warm on the side grate so that it could be heated quickly if needed. A dry sink and open wood shelving ran down the inside wall to provide housing for all of Grandmother's cooking utensils. I never recall seeing her anywhere in the house except in the kitchen.

This particular year I had attained the magical age of four and was deemed old enough to be one of the children banished to the cold, snowy outdoors. Bundled up and excited to be allowed to play with the big kids, I remember the excitement as I headed out to the porch and through the outside door. A few feet from this door was the well complete with an ancient iron pump that provided all the water for the family.

In the beginning, I was pulled on the sled which was piled to capacity with all the children who could fit without falling off. The snow was deep and icicles hung long and thick from the eves of the house. The bigger boys pulled the sleds and looked after the younger kids. My brother was one of the middle kids, four years older than me but not old enough to be considered one of the elder children. He was a member of perhaps ten boys of like ages that comprised this in-between age group. After my turn for the sled was over a group of these boys took me to the pump...sadly, my brother was one of this group. They all were laughing and telling me that I needed to prove how brave I was. I needed to lick the pump handle and then I could be a part of their group and not be one of the babies. Peer pressure is a strong influence. I, of course, was going to show them how brave I was! Now you must remember that teakettle that sat on the side of the cookstove...my screams resulted in the door flying open and my Father's shouts for my Mother to bring the kettle. Yup, my tongue was stuck painfully to the pump handle. Mama came through the door with the kettle of warm water in her hand. She quietly soothed me as she poured water over my bleeding tongue to release it from the pump's hold. I was crying, but I could hear my Father giving the boys a good talking to as Mama took me inside, a wiser four year old.

Magpie 94...

2011-12-04T09:12:00.001-08:00

(Prompt Provided by Tess Kincaid)

Growing up in the Midwest during the period following WWII, I witnessed many people passing through our small town, people who were without the means to feed or care for themselves. My Grandmother (my Mother's Mother) operated a small cafe and she would hand food out the back door to those who climbed the stairs to ask. My Father said the hobos, as they were referred to at that time, placed a mark on the businesses and residences that would provide help. I don't know if this was true, but they did come and they were always fed even though my Grandmother herself lived in a single room that she rented in a boarding house and had little herself.

Our family had little but my Father's job and he worked hard to make certain that he kept it. He had been born to a wealthy farming family, the third oldest of eleven children. During the Great Depression his Father mortgaged his farms to acquire more land. In the end he lost everything. The family was set out of their home in the middle of a ferocious Iowa winter. They were allowed a wagon, a few pieces of necessary furniture, a team of horses and because there was a newborn baby, a milk cow. My Father related the story to me throughout my growing up years so I know the facts by heart. Even so, I still cry as I think about the suffering of not only this family but of the hordes of people who faced the same desolation. The family boarded up an old abandoned shack nearby the river and moved the family of thirteen into two rooms. The baby, Ezra, caught pneumonia and my Father told of his Mother rocking the baby all night long trying to keep him alive. Sadly, he did not survive and is buried in the Riverton, Iowa cemetery with a small marker made by his brother out of rocks.

The oldest son left home and my Father was taken out of school in his seventh year so he could support the family. He was also the one who had to walk the fourteen miles roundtrip to pick up what was called 'commodities' back then. This consisted of beans, rice, cheese, whatever the government had available to help people survive. The embarrassment of having to accept assistance lived in my Father to his dying day. He raised his children, myself and my brother, to work hard and never accept anything we did not earn. I must say those lessons were profound and I have lived my life trying my best to live as he had wished. He worked at whatever jobs could be found, chopping ice from the Missouri River and transporting it many miles by horse-drawn wagon to the ice house was one such job. My youngest son still has the heavy iron ice tongs he used to lift and move the blocks of ice. When he finally acquired a job as an equipment operator for Fremont County Iowa, he worked twice as hard as anyone else and in 57 years of employment never missed a day of work. At the time of his retirement he had finally acquired a monthly salary of $1,000.

I have been blessed to have been born into a loving family who taught me strong values and responsibility. I have lived through the cold war and watched as our Nation changed from one that would sacrifice for it's fellow man into one of greed and corruption. It seems appropriate that we now have morphed back into a Nation of people who need jobs and assistance. I only hope that the people of today are made of strong enough stock to endure the hardships of today and tomorrow.

GOD BLESS US ALL.

Original work of C Hummel Kornell.

Magpie 93 - Hope

2011-11-27T07:24:00.001-08:00

photo: Christine Donnier-Valentin

It was winter and my morning commute to my boring job had to be altered due to much needed street repairs. The skies overhead cast shades of grey everywhere, threatening snow. No sun, no blue sky; my life had progressed into a stage of the doldrums, as my poor departed Grandmother would often say. I faced the future alone with no promise of brighter days. I felt as worthless as the sun behind the blanket of clouds, unable to warm the earth, her inhabitants--or my heart. With each passing day I felt relief at being one day closer to the end of my life. After all, what was left for me?

As I turned onto an unknown street, my eyes were greeted with a blast of vibrant color. I squinted into the blaze before me, unaccustomed to the glaring beauty. Something began to warm within the center of my being. A smile played at the corners of my usually pursed lips. A derelict couch, abandoned by its former owner, sat proudly against the grey of the cement wall. Although tattered and worn, it proudly professed its cheeriness to the world. A beacon to all who chanced to make the turn. I stopped to gaze upon it's beauty, to share its hope for a better day. I drove away humming, directing my auto in the opposite direction from my work. Deciding to go shopping instead of to work. It might be a good day to rethink my future, find a new job perhaps. Why not? If that old couch could have hope for a better day, then why not me?

Original work by C Hummel Kornell

Happy Thanksgiving...

2011-11-24T09:25:00.001-08:00

Today is a day of giving thanks for the everyday things we take for granted.

The beauty of the world around us, the love of those nearest us, the appreciation of what we have, have had and hope to have in the future.

I thank God for my family and friends, the life God has given me and the here and now.

May your day be filled with Love and Thankfulness whether you are an American celebrating our Thanksgiving Day or a resident of the world simply acknowledging your life.

Thank you all for sharing a snippet of mine.

MagPie 92

2011-11-20T08:26:00.001-08:00

Woodward/Newman

Eternity is relevant

Children dream, grow, leave

True Love lasts a lifetime and beyond

Bringing with it the gift of never growing old

An ability to maintain the age when first you fell in love

The soul remains young and strong even as the body ages

It is with our souls that we love

Throughout time situations have changed

But Love has remained to define mankind from all others

Once truly given, Love is forever

C Hummel Kornell

Mag 90

2011-11-06T08:18:00.000-08:00

Ages of people have cultured a fear of graveyards

For me there has always been a fascination, a wonderment

A desire to know more about those who lie resting among the stones

Where did they come from?

Were they loved?

How did they die?

Were they mourned?

As a child I visited the cemetery with parents who dutifully remembered their loved ones

As an adult I wander through, alone, seeking answers to the questions of loss

Why did an infant die?

How did one live to be so old in a time when souls were called home early?

Did she choose to die alone?

The inscriptions on the stones, some elaborate, some idyllic, a few even humorous

Draw my interest daring me to seek more

And so I wander the cemeteries, sitting, listening, imploring the souls to tell me

The stories of their demise

And as I listen, the stories come

And as I hear them peace descends

There is no fear in these

2011-11-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

Magpie 89

Courtesy: Tess Kincaid

The characters grew from their inception

Morphing into solid form somewhere along the way

My control over them waned as the plot grew

In the end they wrote the story as I became their tool

My heart broke with the surprise at the end

As I vowed never to do this again!

2011-11-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

Halloween is over and now we turn to our American celebration of Thanksgiving. Thought you might enjoy meeting a few of our friendly flock of wild turkeys. The two in the front of the photo have been named (by my husband) 'Thanksgiving' and 'Christmas'! Actually, they love him and whenever he goes outside they come running to be near him. Aren't God's creatures wonderful? I hope you all have a peaceful and beautiful day and thanks for stopping by.

2011-10-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

Photo Courtesy Tess Kincaid

Once I called you friend, we strolled through fields and pens

You slept upon my lap before your feathers grew

They crept into your house one night when it was late

Fed you corn and milk and watched you while you ate

Befriended you but before you knew

They took your life so needlessly

You slept upon my lap before your feathers grew

And now you're gone--and I miss you

2011-10-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

My artist friend, Susan Roper, asked that I post the paintings I entered in the fair so here are two of them. I will have to photograph the other two and post them later.

The first painting is 'High Mountain Majesty'. This is an oil on canvas and it is the one that won 'Best of Category' in the Professional Category as well as a First Place Blue Ribbon. Living in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska has instilled in me a great respect for the beauty of our wildlife. My hunting expeditions are always done with a camera. This painting is one I created in my mind, not from a reference. Somehow I think the young bull would be a bit disconcerted by the approaching 'old fella'. In my mind, he paused only a a second or two before moving away from the approaching danger.

This painting is 'Childhood Memories'. It is also oil on canvas. It depicts my childhood growing up in southwest Iowa when in the fall of the year our parents would take my brother and me into the black walnut forests to gather walnuts for the winter. Our Mother always made fudge and cookies and frostings using the wonderful freshly cracked walnuts. The walnuts are encased in a husk and surrounded by a dark substance that will stain anything, including children, that it touches. Just inside this particular woods there was an old, abandoned, one-room schoolhouse. My brother and I loved exploring inside. I recall there were some desks and books remaining inside the building which was beginning to fall down. We were allowed to look at them but not to remove them. Imagine what would happen to those treasures should they be found today.

I hope you enjoy seeing two of my favorite paintings and I would love to hear from you. Both of these works are copyrighted so I ask that you not copy or reproduce them in any way.

2011-10-06T21:17:00.000-07:00

Nothing Ventured...

This year represents a first for me. Friends suggested I enter some of my paintings in the Spokane Interstate Fair. I have to admit in all the years I have pursued my art, I have never attempted such an undertaking. Since I consider myself a 'professional' this was the category I entered my four submissions into. Wonders never cease and I came away with three First Place Blue Ribbons and one Red Second Place Ribbon. In addition, my work won the Purple Best of Category rosette. I have to admit that I am not only honored by the experience, but looking forward to next year when I can share more of my favorite works. To everyone out there who have participated in one of our oldest community events and have received ribbons I say "Congratulations".

2011-09-14T07:16:00.000-07:00

Today I was thinking about contradictions and realized that I am, perhaps, the most contradictory individual I know. First, I am a Pisces which in and of itself denotes a strong attachment to water. True to my sign, I LOVE water, especially the ocean off the coast of Oregon. However, while I love to watch the undulation of waves I AM TERRIFIED to be in deep water or murky water or large mud puddles. (Just kidding about the last one.) I can swim in shallow, clear water but surely would drown in deep or murky water. Is this a fear that is shared by others or am I alone in my contradiction?

Hello, Friends...

2011-06-26T10:06:00.000-07:00

I apologize for my extended absence. This beautiful time of year brought with it a health challenge for me that I am happy to report is coming to an end. I have missed visiting with you all and will try to catch up. It's a beautiful sunny day here in the Northwest and I'm listening to 'Drops of Jupiter' by the mega-talented artist, Train, while I write this. What a lovely vision...what if one could really wear drops of Jupiter in her hair? I hope your lives are wonderful and each of you are enjoying your summer. I love skies and the awesome displays that occur without warning...yup, I'm a cloud-watcher! I hope you enjoy this one.

The Beauty of Spring...

2011-05-30T07:33:00.000-07:00

This year summer has been dragging it's feet in the Northwest. April showers were April 'snow' showers and instead of May flowers, it brought gully-washers (one of my Dad's favorite references) of rain. Now, as we close in on June, behold the beauty of nature...

May the beauty of your world match that of the Northwest's. Always remember that while rain must fall in every life, sunshine cannot be far behind.

Mother's Everywhere...

2011-05-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Mother's Day, a particularly bittersweet day for me. My darling Mother left us so unexpectedly on Mother's Day (May 12, 1985). She was only 62 years old and was the light in my life, my best friend, my confidant. I've tried all these years to accept her death but I must admit the pain of her loss is as sharp as the day it happened. I find that I question why so many bad people live such long lives while the good seem to die young. Perhaps it is the reward for being a good person. I wanted to share a photo of my Mother today and tell her "Happy Mother's Day". She is missed so much.

Mana with my Brother c.1943

Mama with my oldest Son c.1972

Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers everywhere.

Approaching Heaven...Rambling Thoughts

2011-04-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

The life had been hard and the road long as

I lay down beneath a tree in the softness of the moss

To reflect upon the happenings that had brought me here

I'm not sure when sleep overtook me

But I dreamed of my loved ones and the happiness I had known

Aware of the wind softly moving my hair about my face

While I had not accomplished greatness, perhaps in my own way I had made a mark

Perhaps someone would remember me in sadness when I'm gone

There was no fear within me as I opened my eyes to the brilliant light

The Goodness of Him and I smiled my last earthly smile.

MagPie 68 - Photo Courtesy Tess Kincaid

Written for My Sons...

2011-04-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

The following poem was written by me many years ago when I was a young working Mom trying to balance an 80 hour/week job and take care of my two little sons who are two years apart. I recall writing this late at night after finishing washing diapers in preparation for the coming morning. I recall the sadness I felt for not being able to be with my babies more and the guilt was nearly unbearable. I still feel it today although I can say both my sons are wonderful grown men with babies of their own. I'm proud to say they are both wonderful parents!

Children are the sweetest things

We liken them to queens and kings

But of ourselves we do not give

The thing they need the most to live

LOVE...

C Hummel Kornell, original, copyrighted work

Pecos, Texas...

2011-04-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

West Texas is a desert type environment, not many trees, lots of wind and dust. It never rains to clear the air and the temperatures are sometimes harsh. Here in Pecos during the final days of March, temperatures reached 104 degrees. My husband has been assigned here for the past three months and during this time I have tried to find something redeeming about the place. The people are friendly so that's a plus. Shopping is challenging and there are no Starbucks. A few weeks back we began our container gardening and except for having to move the plants out of the hot sun and wind I noticed that the plants were doing great. It's the 5th of April and I already have five tomatoes on the vine about the size of my palm. There is a small tree outside our window and I decided to put up a bird seed bell and hummingbird feeder, never expecting to see any birds. Well, I was wrong. Not only did the hummingbirds come, but also a small red-breasted song bird, sparrows, doves and this morning I even had a Cardinal on the feeder.

During a walk, not far from where we are living, are these little owls. They live in a burrow underground. I apologize for the photo not being clearer, but they were skitterish and would not allow me to get too close. This is taken with a telephoto lense at about sunset.

At a nearby park we found these Texas Longhorns. They were not very interested in us. Their horns do not seem to be as long and they are definitely not as skinny as their ancestors, but they do give you the idea of what the original cattle of Texas looked like. They are behind tall double chainlink enclosures so the blurry crosses you see in the photos are from the fence.

Roibert a Briuis

2011-03-22T05:47:00.000-07:00

Oh Roibert, dear Roibert, English fealty you swore,

But upon the morrow Scottish plaids you wore

Your English alliances surfaced again

And stressed your allegiance causing you pain

While history took turns your heart remained true

But only the likes of Wallace knew

William’s life would be given to uphold your name

And none, save the closest knew of your game

Oh Roibert, dear Roibert, Red Comyn you smite

In Dumfries the Friars cry out ‘tis not right

The shedding of blood on sacred ground
Brought the wrath of Edward down

Your tears had been shed for Wallace, your friend
Upon the banks of Abhainn Dhùins

The crown of Scotland would be yours not once
but twice upon sequential moons

Oh Roibert, dear Roibert…

C Hummel Kornell, copyrighted – all rights reserved.

Photo Prompt Courtesy of Tess Kincaid.

Youthful Reckonings...

2011-03-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

Today's Magpie really hit home for me. BTW, I was born on March 16th, just before midnight...

The hospital delivery room felt stuffy as white-clad people surrounded the writhing body fighting to give birth while the ancient Irish doctor soothingly talked to her.

'Hold on, girlie, you can wait another few minutes. This wee bairn need not arrive until after midnight. We want us a St. Patrick's Day baby. Try to relax, we're almost there.'

She fought and tried so hard to give him what he wanted but her body had a mind of its own. A wrenching scream announced the birth of a tiny baby girl only minutes before the turn of the clock. Her prayers had been answered. She had a daughter to go with her beloved son.

The agony of the natural childbirth faded as she cradled her squalling babe. She was as content as she had ever been until she heard the doctor's voice.

"We'll name her Mary, Mary Louise."

That was it, she could not allow him, however important he had been to her family, to name her little girl! This country doctor had provided his services free to her throughout this difficult pregnancy. He was a family friend, as well as a doctor, and she felt indebted to him, but this was her baby. She found her voice and spoke.

"We'll name her Connie, Connie Louise."

The old doctor began to argue, but seeing the set to her jaw, stopped and laughingly said, "That should do fine. Connie Louise it is. She was almost an Irish miracle. I'll bring her Dad in."

And thus began the life of a blessed little girl.

The years following the end of WW-II and the birth of their second child brought hard times for her family. Her Father worked hard but was only able to provide the barest of necessities. She knew her family was poor. At school she suffered the cruelty of her peers who teased her relentlessly about her ragged hand-me-downs, but all the while a creative spirit was growing inside her. While they lived in a little house with dirt floors, she created beautiful visions of castles and happiness. A nearby ditch, shaded by giant Elm trees and blanketed by thick carpets of grass and moss provided her sanctuary. This sanctuary grew the largest and most beautiful violets which she claimed as hers and chose to love for all time. To this day, a grown woman with children and grandchildren, she can still harken back the smells, feel the sun shining dappled on her face through the branches of the long-ago Elm trees and recall one of the happiest times of her life. Loved unconditionally by her family and blessed by a God who provided her an artistic spirit.

Created in love by Connie Louise Hummel Kornell - all rights reserved.

Western Elegance...

2011-03-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

On our way back from San Antonio we stopped for the night at the YO Resort and Guest Ranch. We weren't sure what we would find behind the beautiful stone facade but were happy to find a western ranch style graciousness that was much superior to the other available lodgings. For those of you who have never been to the 'Wild West' here is a peek into what is perhaps not so wild but very much reflects the American West.

I hope you enjoy viewing this lovely place as much as we enjoyed staying there. The chandeliers are made out of hundreds of antique branding irons.

Sam Houston's portrait hangs in the dining room. BTW, the walls are actually 'papered' with tapestries. Talk about Southern Hospitality! If you ever get the chance to visit Kerrville, Texas stop by for a visit to the YO Resort we think you will be glad you did.

Finally, here is a photo of the famous 'Riverwalk' in San Antonio. Loved this special piece of the world. Texans and visitors to Texas are some of the greatest people on earth!

Another Year, A Wonderful Experience...

2011-03-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

My husband and I just returned from a very enjoyable, albeit short, trip to San Antonio, Texas. Neither of us had ever visited the Alamo so this was our year. I must admit that even with the many thousands of visitors who were sharing the same experience, I encountered feelings I hadn't expected as I viewed the 175 year old relics. It seemed the souls of the brave men who gave their lives in their fight for the freedoms we Americans now take for granted. Men like Davey Crocket, Jim Bowie, Colonel Travis and so many more.

Creativity of a Different Kind...

2011-02-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

During a recent trip to Tucson, Arizona, my husband was gifted a beautiful, hand-made leather vest by a friend, Vern Curtis. Not only does he create these one-of-a-kind vests, he designs the intricate embroidery to fit the individual. As you all know by now, my husband is a past World Champion Bull Rider so Vern is recreating one of his bull rides for the back of the vest. In the meantime, I wanted to post these photos to show you all what beautiful, artistic work he is doing. If anyone is interested in ordering a vest Vern can be reached at vcurtis524@aol.com.

Magpie Tales 52...

2011-02-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

I gaze at the cottage as the stories appear
They tell of a gentleman touching the keys of a spinet
Playing his heart out, but no one can hear
He's alone in the house and no one's expected
The snow's on the ground and the winter's so cold
He'll live in this house alone until he is old
And when he has played his last little tune
His life will be over and no one will care
He lived and he died...perhaps way too soon.

Written by C Hummel Kornell

The Melody Lives On...

2011-01-11T07:38:00.000-08:00

Strains of a melody fill the night air

An image so lovely appears in my head

Of nighttime and dancing...

And later, of bed

I loved him so deeply

How can I go on

Dancing and singing

Now that he's gone...

C Hummel Kornell

A Mother's Hands...

2011-01-03T04:11:00.000-08:00

The hands that fitted these gloves were loving, gentle and worn.

They belonged to a Mother whose heart, though torn from a broken home,

found the strength to nurture and love the children she had born.

Her hands, roughened from the labors she performed, softened within the fingers of these gloves.

And when she slipped them on, the weariness of her world was gone.

A symbol of her youth, gifted by a Father she adored,

these gloves bore with her through thickness and through thin.

And when we buried her they went with her once again.

C Hummel Kornell

Magpie Offering

WELCOMING THE NEW YEAR...

2011-01-02T07:13:00.000-08:00

Resolutions - the things disappointments are made from.

My personal opinion, of course. So many times I have greeted the New Year with the resolve to accomplish great things both in my personal life and in my work. So many times I have failed to achieve these awesome resolutions I have carved out for myself. Failing to reach one's goals can be a terrible burden if you actually take yourself seriously. So, this year as I quietly welcomed the New Year in the presence of my loving husband, I have determined to accept the small accomplishments that come my way and revel in the fact that this is my life and I am so blessed by having it. I wish wellness and happy days to all my friends (blogging and otherwise) and to my family.

May each of you find Peace, Love and Happiness in this New Year.

This photograph was taken by my youngest son, Christopher, of one of the places where his heart is at home. May you all find such a place this coming year. Thank you for tagging along with me this past year, I hope you stick around.

Happy Holidays...

2010-12-20T07:01:00.000-08:00

Children Lost...

2010-12-11T06:38:00.000-08:00

Papa drinks his coffee at the table, unaware of the children standing in the shadows.

Outside the snow is falling, the wind howling, creating great drifts about the house.

Mama rocks quietly by the fire, a far away look in her misty eyes.

It stands against the wall, dry and cracking, dusty from disuse.

Once the bearer of so much joy. A small, tow-headed boy flew down the snowy hillside.

His laughter could be heard across the dales.

Papa laughed, too, then and Mama sang songs of joy.

Until that fateful day that claimed their littlest boy.

My Latest Project...

2010-12-07T08:55:00.000-08:00

My sister is a bit over the top so I designed this necklace for a Christmas gift to her.

The stars are sterling silver and the seed beads are crystal. Wasn't sure when I started where it would end, but I'm happy with the final outcome. There may be a subliminal message here since most of our growing up years I felt like choking her!!! Actually I am blessed by her presence and realize how much she means to me even after all these years. Let me know what you think. I may create some of these in various colors for sale.

Fred's Hydrangea...

2010-11-26T08:50:00.000-08:00

Several months ago I posted a wip (work-in-progress) of this painting. I have completed it and would appreciate your thoughts. The subtle colors presented a challenge since the basic color was a very pale pink with touches of darker pinks and blues in places. Yellow-green centers completed the palette.

This work is in oils and prints and cards from this painting can be purchased through:

http://c-hummel-kornell.fineartamerica.com/

Happy Thanksgiving...

2010-11-25T07:43:00.000-08:00

MAY YOU ALL HAVE HAPPINESS

THIS DAY OF OUR AMERICAN "THANKSGIVING"

MAY WE ALL SHARE A UNIVERSAL FORGIVENESS

AND JOIN EFFORTS IN A BETTER TOMORROW FOR ALL.

Blue Moon...

2010-11-22T18:11:00.000-08:00

Okay, I've been missing much of the summer but wanted to share some of what I've been up to. As many of you know, I create stained glass projects as part of my creative journey. So, having said that, here is one of my latest projects. The first photo is so you can see what the glass looks like with the light coming through (please excuse the window frame running dead center behind the project). The next photo shows the project against the pulled shades so you can more clearly see the design. I used a variety of challenging glass and there were differences in the glass thickness requiring a graduation in lead came sizes. Let me know what you think. In the meantime, I want to wish you all 'A VERY HAPPY THANKSGIVING'.

Broken...

2010-10-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

So long ago there was joy in my world. Life was ahead of me and wonder never ceased. Growing, learning, toiling beside my Mother and Father moved effortlessly into an arranged marriage and the bearing of my children. I learned about grief through the loss of my infant son and later my grown daughter. While love was not a part of my marriage, it was the center of my parenting. The pain for my losses never diminished. The glow of youth long-since gone, the toils of my middle years bent my back but never my spirit. Through all my challenges my faith remained. I died alone, with no human presence to take my hand. The Lord pulled me up and held me close so that all these ages later I might view the worldly remains of a life well-lived. My name was Hazel A. Wilson and I walked among you, bent but never broken.

(My Magpie offering...C Hummel Kornell)

Good Morning, Friends...

2010-10-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

These cool Fall mornings convince me to linger a little longer at my computer and I begin to search for new looks and fun postings. So, I had to change my blog design! I now see fireflies instead of snow flitting across my screen. Perhaps this is a quiet wish that winter take its time to arrive. Please let me know what you think. I promise I will be posting several pieces of art soon. It's been a busy summer and I really have been creating some new works. See you all later.

A House into a Home...

2010-09-10T15:24:00.000-07:00

The crisp morning air assaulted my lungs as I climbed the brushy hillside. Perched on the precipice above sat the old Victorian mansion. My first recollections were of this place. Dark and forbidding, gloomy in my mind, a place where fear roamed every corner and life felt more in limbo than in living. Dark shadows filled every room. All windows were kept draped allowing not a single shaft of light inside. My Mother was the maid servant to the widow who inhabited this house. I could never, would never, bring myself to call it a home. The memory of the widow brought gooseflesh even now. I had longed for the day I would leave these terrifying confines, go out into the world of light and leave this dismal past behind. When I grew to an age appropriate to depart, I had wasted no time in doing so. While I lived in the world of light I had never let go of the dark world this place represented. Always I felt drawn to return. Years passed while I created a life for myself, a life still attached to the past. One day a notice arrived announcing that my Mother had died and that she had left me her only possession...the Victorian on the hillside.

Today is my first day back. So many years later I arrive not in fear of the mansion but in anticipation of living within its confines, shuttered away in the darkness, protected from the light and madness of the world.

I'm Back...And There's Beauty in the World!

2010-09-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

This summer has been a very challenging one for me. There has not seemed to be enough time to pursue my artistic endeavors as my ordinary life kept getting in the way. I'm sorry I have not had enough time to keep my postings up. To try and make up for this lapse, I have decided to share some of my favorite artists with you. To begin, let me say that I belong to an online group of watercolor artists organized by Susie Short. This is a group of wonderful accomplished artists and developing artists from all over the world. If any of you are interested in such a group you can find them at:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WatercolorWorkshop/

My first "Favorite Artist" is Ruth Bodycott. Ruth has a wonderful style to her work. While she is an accomplished portrait painter she also reaches out to design and paint the unexpected. Please take a moment to visit her site and take a look at her work. I promise you won't be disappointed. With her permission I am posting a couple of her recent paintings. I think she is a wonderfully creative painter and highly recommend you visit her site: ruthswatercolors.shutterfly.com/

Since Ruth depicted such a beautiful rendition of wild growing lupine, I decided to close this post with a photo from my past. I am an avid gardener, who loves flowers of all kinds, especially those that come back year after year to embrace us with their beauty. Here is one of my flower gardens from the past. These are giant lupin and they were awesome!

Beauty Continues...

2010-08-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful granddaughter, Megan, looking out at the Pacific Ocean on the coast of Oregon. The photo was taken by our daughter, Kari, Megan's Mom. Grandma feels a painting coming on! Where does the time go? She was just a child only yesterday.

2010-08-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

As an artist I learned long ago that there is no limit to what can be perceived and executed in the name of art. Recently I received information on this artist and wanted to pass it along. He is truly an artist with a gift. Let me know what you all think.

It appears his website is: sambarcroft.com. I am truly impressed with how he has utilized wood to create such realistic offerings. Photos courtesy of www.sambarcroft.com. If you would like to see more of his work, you can visit the Livio De Marchi Virtual Museum at www.liviodemarchi.com

Thought for Today...

2010-07-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

The following thought came across my desk a day or so ago. Not sure where it originated, but as I consider it I realize it is one of the simplest of truths. Wishing you all in blogger land a very Happy Day!

Watch your thoughts, for they become your words.

Watch your words, for they become your actions.

Watch your actions, for they become your habits.

Watch your habits, for they become your character.

Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny!

Fate...

2010-07-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

The bed stood against the wall, beneath the window through which we watched the stars--the snow falling softly in the night. Sheets still crumpled and smelling of our final love. His scent lingered on the pillow where I laid my head, mingling with salty tears that fell. How could this have happened? Our love was to last forever. What fate had brought me here? The sheets were warmer not so long ago as we lay tangled in their midst. While dreams were spoken and plans were made. Oh, Fate, you angry bitch, how could you take him? What would I do without his touch, his kiss, his love?

C Hummel Kornell

New Painting Underway...

2010-07-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid that I am the World's Worst when it comes to being on time for birthdays, anniversaries and any other event that must be celebrated through timely contact. It's not that I don't wish to be on time, it's simply that time escapes me. Nothing new...I've been like this my entire life. At times I try to reconcile my tardiness by admitting that I am a Pisces and therefore tend to be a bit scattered. At any rate, on the 10th day of July my one and only sibling (my Brother) celebrated his birthday. I had good intentions over the past few weeks to complete and send him a painting of one of the many beautiful flowers that he and his wife grow. Here I am, late again! The painting has been started but is not finished. I am publicly apologizing to my Brother, whom I love very much. Here is the first stage of his beautiful heart shaped hydrangeas. I have completed a few more sessions of work on it since this photo was taken and I will post the finished product...when I actually get it finished. To my Brother I want to say "Thank YOU!" for your love and understanding of a little sister who simply can't get her life organized.

My Grandson, Sidney...

2010-07-10T11:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfGWBUvVrh0&feature=player_embedded

Happy Fourth of July...

2010-07-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who have or will comment on my humble offering for this weeks Magpie. I feel honored to have lived during a time when our country was so proud and its citizens so much aware of the cost of freedom. While we continue to fight wars, I fear the understanding of their need now sometimes escapes us. The flag my ancestors gave their lives to save is now flown upside down by unhappy, illegal aliens as they demand rights that are not their due and our leaders commit acts of treason against us without a thought or care.

I choose to recall those glory days of honor. I will always stand and cover my heart during the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the Star Spangled Banner and will forever thank God for this Great Country, with a tear in my eye.

Today is our day of Independence. To all who share my feelings I wish a heartfelt HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

And the Rockets Red Glare...

2010-07-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

A dark sky hung overhead as Daddy carried me, wrapped in a blanket, to the car. Mama and my older brother were already waiting. It was 1950 and we were driving to a hillside situated above the park where fireworks would be set off.

Patriotism was high only five years after the end of World War II. Our flag was revered, the President respected and fear of what could happen was still raw within the hearts of all. Bomb shelters were more common than garages and the knowledge that freedom came at a very high price (the loss of American lives) still haunted the survivors.

Silence fell across the throng of observers who had gathered as the display began. The smell of acrid sulphuric powder filled the air as the glorious explosions lit the night sky. Oohs and aahs erupted in unison with each new offering. The Star Spangled Banner rang true in all the hearts. ...Our Flag Was Still There!

C Hummel Kornell

The Dusty Trunk...

2010-06-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

The trunk sat gathering dust in the attic through WWII, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm and all the current skirmishes. I'd passed it many times as I picked up or deposited items in the attic for my Grandmother and finally my Mother. It was less interesting than most of the items hiding amidst the gossamer silk decorating the attic. Imagine my surprise when my daughter and I opened it while clearing away the debris left by my mother's passing. Relics of the past. Photos from the Civil War nestled beside medals identified as belonging to the Spanish American War and awarded to ancestors whose names I recalled but of whom I'd never been interested enough to listen to the stories being told about them.

During the dusty afternoon as we pawed our way through generations of our family's history my daughter and I earned a new appreciation of what had come before. Letters home told of the horrors of many wars. Families torn apart and loved ones lost. The uniforms from early wars hung appropriately in the trunk, protected for the many years. Opening a drawer I encountered a tortoise shell toothbrush gently reposed on an aged linen handkerchief that bore the initials of my Great Great Grandfather. His tour of duty had been the Spanish American War and his uniform, complete with medals, hung honorably amongst the others. Beneath the linen handkerchief I found a yellowed letter written to my Great Great Grandmother offering condolences for the loss of her husband. Suddenly this relic, his toothbrush, took on a deeper meaning. Why do wars continue to be fought? Why should loved ones be lost? How can the madness be stopped? I had no answers as I quietly closed the trunk and wiped my tears. I could only pray that my Grandson, serving in Afghanistan, would not join the history displayed in this dusty trunk.

C Hummel Kornell

Writer's Block...

2010-06-10T20:26:00.000-07:00

neatly sharpened standing straight

they beckoned to me through my dread

taunting me to pick one up

to make my mark, state things that must be said

all through the day I stared their way

and in my sleep I felt them still

but not one word was I to say

writers block had stayed my quill

C Hummel Kornell

http://magpietales.blogspot.com/

The Cost of Women's Suffrage...

2010-06-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

The following was received from a close friend and I felt it worthy of sharing. While some of the facts may not be totally accurate (given that a film has been made and facts are sometimes made more interesting for the big screen) the truth is that this event did take place. These were brave women who forged a path for todays women to not only take part in voting but to hold some of the highest offices in the land. I firmly believe that the women of the United States of America should show our respect for them by taking the time to become acquainted with all the issues and candidates, by making our own decisions on them and by voicing those decisions at all upcoming elections. 'Of the People, By the People and For the People' and women, we are definitely part of the People of this great country.

History we need to remember. Nothing we have to do is so important that we cannot take time to vote and to voice our opinions about the men and women who represent us at every level of government local, state or national.

This is the story of our Mothers and Grandmothers who lived only 90 years ago.

Remember, it was not until 1920 that women were granted the right to go to the polls and vote.

The women were innocent and defenseless, but they were jailed nonetheless for picketing the White House, carrying signs asking for the vote. And by the end of the night, they were barely alive.

Forty prison guards wielding clubs and their warden's blessing
went on a rampage against the 33 women wrongly convicted of 'obstructing sidewalk traffic.'

(Lucy Burns)

They beat Lucy Burns, chained her hands to the cell bars above her head and left her hanging for the night, bleeding and gasping for air.

(Dora Lewis)

They hurled Dora Lewis into a dark cell, smashed her

head against an iron bed and knocked her out cold. Her cellmate, Alice Cosu, thought Lewis was dead and suffered a heart attack. Additional affidavits describe the guards grabbing, dragging, beating, choking, slamming, pinching, twisting and kicking the women.

Thus unfolded the 'Night of Terror' on Nov. 15, 1917, when the warden at the Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia ordered his guards to teach a lesson to the suffragists imprisoned there because they dared to picket Woodrow Wilson's White House for the right to vote. For weeks, the women's only water came from an open pail. Their food--all of it colorless slop--was infested with worms.

(Alice Paul)

When one of the leaders, Alice Paul, embarked on a hunger strike, they tied her to a chair, forced a tube down her throat and poured liquid into her until she vomited. She was tortured like this for weeks until word was smuggled out to the press.

So, refresh my memory. Some women won't vote this year because - why, exactly? We have carpool duties? We have to get to work? Our vote doesn't matter? It's raining?

(Mrs. Pauline Adams in the prison garb she wore while serving a sixty-day sentence.)

Last week, there was a sparsely attended screening of HBO's new movie 'Iron Jawed Angels.' It is a graphic depiction of the battle these women waged so that I could pull the curtain at the polling booth and have my say. I am ashamed to say I needed the reminder.

(Miss Edith Ainge, of Jamestown, New York)

All these years later, voter registration is still my passion. But the actual act of voting had become less personal for me, more rote. Frankly, voting often felt more like an obligation than a privilege. Sometimes it was inconvenient.

(Berthe Arnold, CSU graduate)
A friend, who is my age and studied women's history,
saw the HBO movie, too. When she stopped by my desk to talk
about it, she looked angry. She was--with herself. 'One thought kept coming back to me as I watched that movie,' she said. 'What would those women think of the way I use, or don't use, my right to vote? All of us take it for granted now, not just younger women, but those of us who did seek to learn.' The right to vote, she said, had become valuable to her 'all over again.'
(Conferring over ratification [of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution] at [National Woman's Party] headquarters, Jackson Pl[ace] [Washington, D.C.]. L-R Mrs. Lawrence Lewis, Mrs. Abby Scott Baker, Anita Pollitzer, Alice Paul, Florence Boeckel, Mabel Vernon (standing, right))

HBO released the movie on video and DVD . I wish all history,
social studies and government teachers would include the movie in their curriculum I want it shown on Bunco night, too, and anywhere else women gather. I realize this isn't our usual idea of socializing, but we are not voting in the numbers that we should be, and I think a little shock therapy is in order.

It is jarring to watch Woodrow Wilson and his cronies try to persuade a psychiatrist to declare Alice Paul insane so that she could be permanently institutionalized. And it is inspiring to watch the doctor refuse. Alice Paul was strong, he said, and brave. That didn't make her crazy.

The doctor admonished the men: 'Courage in women is often mistaken for insanity.'

Please, if you are so inclined, pass this on to all the women you know. We need to get out and vote and use this right that was fought so hard for by these very courageous women. Whether you vote democratic, republican or independent party - remember to vote.

(Helena Hill Weed, Norwalk, Conn. Serving 3 day sentence in D.C. prison for carrying banner, 'Governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed.')

History is being made--AGAIN.

King Lear's Wager...

2010-06-06T07:33:00.000-07:00

ageless dust moved upon the sill

rafters began to vibrate as the crowd fell still

a single note, ringing true and clear

all said she’d fail, they knew it to be impossible

all save Lear

a single goblet wavered on its pedestal

the young waif reached deep within

her diaphragm tightened and air moved out

the tone so fresh, so true

the goblet shattered upon the floor

the good king laughed and clapped his hands

his wagers would be paid

this night he’d count his gold

but not before he’d married the maid

http://www.magpietales.blogspot.com/

Magpie Tales...

2010-06-01T08:56:00.000-07:00

http://magpietales.blogspot.com/

The slippers sat gathering dust in a corner of her room

Dancing gowns hung lifeless in the wardrobe behind the broom

A lovely china clock marked the hour of her death

While her husband hung his head, pulled the trigger and

gasped his final breath.

C Hummel Kornell

Critters in the House!

2010-05-17T20:35:00.000-07:00

A few of my little buddies who lurk about the house. Harmless and fun to watch.

Wild Orchids & Bananas...

2010-05-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

The Banana Flower and Stalk

The Banana Flower

The fruit appears along the stalk behind the flower.

Paradise...

2010-05-15T18:33:00.000-07:00

Sunshine, surf and Dolphins what a day in Paradise!

Dolphins kept swimming up to the swimmers but my shots were never successful in catching them.

More Orchids...

2010-05-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

Here are few more of the beauties we photographed. Enjoy!

Orchids...

2010-05-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

So much beauty in one place. I'll let my photos speak for themselves. Wishing you all Peace & Love.

My server has slowed, I'll continue this post later.

Beauty Continues...

2010-05-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

Magnificent Green Sea Turtles come ashore to sunbathe on the black sands of Hawaii.

And the beautiful flowers...Plumeria

Experience Hawaii...

2010-05-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

The Big Island, Hawaii, holds so many surprises I thought I would try and share a few with you. Hope you enjoy the photos.

Surfers Riding the Waves...

Perhaps just the Waves...

Lovley Drives...

Waterfalls and Divers...

Gekos peeking through the curtains...

And Gekos patrolling the Walls...

Plumarian Leis...

Romantic Hideaways...

Beautiful Flowers...

More Beautiful Flowers...

And More...

Thanks for taking time to visit Paradise with me. Now, sit back, relax and dream of distant drums and soft gentle breezes.

Sepia Saturday - Mother

2010-04-23T09:05:00.000-07:00

I've posted my Father and miscellaneous other old photographs, but today I want to introduce you to my Mother. She was a beautiful person who lived her entire life providing unconditional love to her children. She married at the age of 16 to my Father who was 11 years older. She gave birth to her first child, my Brother (pictured here). I was born 4 years later. To me she was always beautiful although she suffered from what was known as "nerves" back in the day. Today there would be medical help for the suffering she experienced. My Mother died unexpectedly on Mother's Day (May 12, 1985). My grief is as raw today as the day I received the call. So many things left unsaid and so many lessons I had yet to learn from her. She deserves Heaven, but I miss her so. So, today is my tribute to a Mother who was My Best Friend. Her heritage was Welsh, English and American Indian. She was dark and very beautiful. Her black eyes have revisited us in our Granddaughter, Sophia.

Mother with my Brother and holding ME. This is the only baby picture of me. I was born at the end of WWII and money was scarce for my family. I regret this photo is blurred, but it is very special to me.

My Mother and Me. Nothing much to say here, except I didn't inherit her height (5'8") or her beauty.

During my growing up years there used to be a t.v. show starring Lorretta Young. I always thought my Mother resembled Ms. Young.

I believe someone mentioned scarfs in a blog posting a while back. My Mother never left home without one during the fall and winter months. During winter when our home was far from warm, she might wear one inside as well. On her it worked, I never much cared for them myself.

I inherited from my Father's gene pool and while I'm not unhappy with Me, I do sometimes long to be more like my Mother. This year marks the 25th since I lost her.

APOLOGIES...

2010-04-15T09:49:00.000-07:00

To any of you who received contact from me promoting a website selling something

PLEASE DELETE THEM.

My account has been spammed. I have taken every precaution to see that this does not happen again and I want to offer my sincere apologies to anyone of you who might have received anything from this attack. Please know that I WILL NEVER PROMOTE ANY PRODUCTS on my site except my own. I will only recommend blogs/sites of fellow artists whom I think are deserving. I do not know how these insidious attackers get our personal information but I do think there should be consequences for their actions. I would like to note that the attacks always seem to come through a hotmail account that I used at one time.

Sepia Saturday...Contradictions of My Father

2010-04-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

This is my Father seated on one of the Catapillers he operated over his 52 year career building roads, fills and working in the quarry for Fremont County, Iowa.

This is my Father with one of the prehistoric artifacts he uncovered working the Fremont County Quarry. This is a portion of a tusk from a Mammoth Elephant. In addition he found Sabre Tooth Tiger remains as well as undersea creatures. Many of his finds were donated to the museum in Lincoln, Nebraska and a few are in the Fremont County Museum in Sidney, Iowa.

This is my Father at around 27 or so. I remember the suit and tie which he wore at his wedding to my Mother and to funerals. I think he was a handsome man but his kindness and love are what I remember most. He worked hard all his life. He provided as best he could for his family. I remember most his love of flowers. He gardened to help feed us and there were always rows of Gladiolias planted with the vegetables. He created a Glad that was actually black. It, like him was a contradiction. I still miss him so very much.

This is my Father toward the end of his working career for Fremont County. I believe it was hard work that kept him young and healthy. He lived to be 86 years old.

Sepia Saturday...Women of My Heritage

2010-03-26T16:06:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of my Maternal Grandmother (Sylvia Grey Pierson) standing on the chair. She is flanked by her Mother Elizabeth Allely Grey and Father whose first name I do not know. My Great Grandmother divorced this husband and later married Alonzo Penn. I never knew this Great Grandfather. I was fortunate enough to know my Grandmother and Great Grandmother. My Grandmother followed her Mother's example an after giving birth to eight children, she divorced her husband. She raised the kids (6 boys and 2 girls) on her own and never remarried. These were strong women who made their way in a world I can only speculate about. I am proud to come from such roots.

SALE!!!

2010-03-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

It's Spring time and time for a SALE. Please check out my special offers at my Art blog:

http://chummelkornellartist.blogspot.com/

Everything is 25% Off.

Beautiful Spring Day...

2010-03-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm over the need for snow. Daffodils, crocus and all sorts of spring flowers are beginning to bloom so I'm thinking of gardening. Time to pull out the seed catalogues and begin the search for heirloom and non-GMO seeds and plants. I am one of those old fashioned people who gather and save my own seeds year to year. I always add to my stash and then if I love the plant I save seeds for the coming years. It's a wonderful way to assure your plants are safe. We always grow organically and are never disappointed with our yields. Growing up in Southwest Iowa, I have personally visited Earl May and Henry Fields. The photo I'm sharing is of little blue flowers that have popped up in my son's yard amongst the grass. They are so beautiful and plentiful. I don't know what they are, but think I will paint them. Enjoy

My Heritage...

2010-03-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

Nearly forgot today! This is my Father's Christening picture. John Sober Hummel was born October 10, 1912. He was next to the oldest boy born into a family that would eventually have eleven children. The family were farmers who originated in Pennsylvania. Hummelstown, PA in either Lancaster or Northumberland County (Dad used to tell me, but without researching, I'm afraid I don't remember which). Family members fought alongside George Washington in the Revolutionary War. My Father's family had acquired several farms prior to the crash of 1929 when my Grandfather speculated by acquiring more land. He ended up losing everything. The family was set out of their home by the local sheriff in the winter. The youngest brother, Ezra, had just been born. They were allowed to keep a few meager belongings, a team of horses, a wagon and a milk cow. Dad talked about finding an abandoned shack down by the river and how they boarded it up and moved into it. The baby caught pneumonia and died. Life for the family was very difficult after that. My father was taken out of school to find day labor to help feed the family. He had been a very good student who loved school and lived out his life regretting that he'd never been able to complete his education. He was a very hardworking man and he instilled a strong moral fortitude in his children. Life was hard and unfair for him, but I can honestly say that he lived it to the best of his ability and never took advantage of another human being.

2010-03-19T04:56:00.001-07:00

The Early Bird...

2010-03-11T13:21:00.000-08:00

Saturday is booked, so I have to post early for the Sepia Saturday entry. I love all the wonderful photos everyone is sharing. So many wonderful memories. Today I'm posting a photo of the main street of Riverton, Iowa, a very small town located in the southwest corner of Iowa in the County of Fremont. This is the town where I spent the first four years of my life. It was pretty much deserted by that time, but a few strong souls remained. I remember the grocery store, a wonderful old bank complete with beautiful solid oak cabinetry housing intricate iron grills through which people made their deposits and withdrawals. There was also a post office, a hardware store, a saddle shop, a beauty shop, a soda shop and a theatre. Life was good. I still remember walking barefoot in the grass as a little girl. I know times were hard for my working class family, but I only remember the beautiful, happy days.

Creation Is A Personal Thing...

2010-03-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally took time to photograph some of the jewelry I've been creating. My camera decided not to focus properly, do you suppose it's operator error?? Anyway, would love to hear what you think. I included a better photo group of the necklace I posted earlier.

I've Been Missing...

2010-02-28T07:07:00.000-08:00

I've been so busy I have only taken time to check into all the wonderful sites I follow, but not time to post on mine. I apologize to those of you who follow me and I promise to try and do better. This morning has brought fog into our area. It's been enjoyable sipping our morning coffee and watching daylight appear through the mists. Something invigorating about certain types of weather. I do so love unexpected changes. When I went to bed last night I did so under a beautiful star-studed night sky showcasing a full moon. There wasn't a cloud in sight.

I have been painting and making jewelry but have not been photographing so I cannot show you what's happening. I can post a picture of my grandson, Ben participating in his school program. He is the handsome blond boy in the center wearing the flag shirt.

Sepia Saturday...

2010-02-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

Alan Burnett and Kat Mortenson's Sepia Saturday Blogspot was brought to my attention by Willow's blog posting. What a wonderful and fun idea. So, here is my first offering.

One of the Sidney Consolidated Schools' (Sidney, Iowa) first transportation vehicles. Prior to this, students walked, rode horses or arrived in wagons pulled by horses. Notice the gentleman on the right who appears to be working on it. Isn't it amazing how many technological steps we took during the last century?

In a Playful Mood...

2010-02-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

The past few days have been a bit hectic, but I did take time to create a new necklace. I was feeling a bit colorful so settled on a great mixture of bright beads with a base of sterling and turquoise with a splash of coral to set it off. Being a bit playful, I strung this one backward, beginning with the centerpiece, working up the main necklace, attaching the fastener and then working down the outside with turquoise, finishing off with the two outside dangles. Hope you all like it.

Today is a beautiful, sunny blue sky day here in the Pacific Northwest. Spring must be around the corner. The birds are returning and trees are taking on a bit of color as they begin to bud out. Don't you just love this time of year?

Moon Over Tucson...

2010-02-03T14:37:00.000-08:00

My recent visit to Tucson provided the opportunity to photograph this beautiful moon. It was so BIG!

If you enlarge this photo you can actually see the landscape of the moon. While in Tucson we also were treated to a snow. These are the mountains the morning after one of the snows. Beautiful to look at but still wonderful days to enjoy, warm and sunny.

Returning to Civilization...

2010-02-01T09:49:00.000-08:00

On my way home. Will arrive there later today. Can't wait to get back to my blogging buddies! Missed you all so much. Hang in there, I'll be posting more tomorrow (after a good night's rest).

In the meantime, thought you might enjoy one of the Roosevelt Elk from Northern California. They are really wonderful to photograph and watch and what a lovely setting.

Blue Day...

2010-01-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

I will be away from my blog for a few days, but wanted to post a new watercolor I just finished. I suppose it is the winter weather (no snow but no color either) that is making me long for my flowers. I am a lover of the heritage flowers. My favorites are old fashioned violets, lily of the valley, iris, hydrangeas, roses (only those that have been maintained with their original aromas), sweet william, peonies, foxglove, wisteria, trumpet vines, honeysuckle...well, you get the idea. I love their wonderful aromas and am always rewarded with beautiful memories of my childhood when I am fortunate enough to have a large bouquet in my home. I remember as a small child, my Mother washed with an old wringer washing machine every Monday. Once the laundry was done and hung on the line she would empty the water, bucket by bucket, dumping it is a special area outside the back porch. This area grew the most beautiful Sweet William and Flocks. I used to sit amongst the flowers and dream of seeing wonderful places in years to come. Now, I sit in some of those wonderful places and dream of the flowers of my youth. I hope you enjoy this offering and as always I love to hear your remarks, they keep me going.

English Manor House

2010-01-15T18:13:00.000-08:00

I have been having a wonderful time painting watercolors lately. Thought you might like to see one I just finished. While it's a study for me and I feel there are areas that need further attention, I enjoyed doing it. I may play with it a bit more, but for now I'll let it rest.

We are having warm, windy and wet weather here in the Pacific Northwest. No snow, but rain has been falling. We must be reaching a state of emergency for our water reserves since there is almost no snow pack in the mountains. Perhaps we should all be doing rain dances.

When the Snow Doesn't Come to YOU...

2010-01-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

Following all my 'grousing' about not having any snow, my husband decided we would make a trek north to a place that is near and dear to my heart. Pend Oreille County, Washington is the northeastern most county in the State of Washington. In another life, I was the Coordinator for The North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway, which later became a part of the International Selkirk Loop (which I also worked on). I will tell you more about this experience sometime later. For now, simply know that this is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been in my life. Through the trees in the center you get a hazy view of the Pend Oreille River, which flows north into Canada. Canada, by the way is only a step or two north of Metaline Falls, which is where we visit. A life-long artist friend of mine, Lee McGowan, owns and operates the Historic Washington Hotel. She maintains her artist studio in the main part of the hotel and many workshops are held there. So, this weekend my wonderful husband was rewarded by two days of glorious snow shoeing and I painted with Lee. Lee is a well-known oil painter and is doing some exceptional work these days. I chose to work with watercolors. Thought you might be interested in seeing my FINAL Candied Apple, which I played with and finished this weekend. I'm putting up both the first version and this final version which is now matted (this means I will leave it alone!).

As always, I would love to hear what you all think about the two versions. It helps me to know if I am seeing and painting what others like.

I am currently working on a blue painting which I will surprise you with (hopefully this week) and a landscape. Our outing served to jump-start my lagging creativity and I was sorry to see it end. For now I will say "Thanks" to all who comment on my blog and Wish You All a Very Happy Day!

Candied Apple or Art?

2010-01-06T13:12:00.000-08:00

I belong to a wonderful watercolor group, Watercolor Workshop hosted by Susie Short. Each month we are challenged to paint from the same source. This month's challenge is to paint a candied apple. The reflections in the apple were quite challenging. I very much enjoyed this little painting and thought I would share it with you.

I have fond memories of candied apples from my childhood. My Mother made them with Kraft caramels and they were always dipped in walnuts...this little guy appears to have a clear coating of perhaps a candied glaze and no extras. I did consider that it might be nice to darken the base around the apple, but for now I will wait and see what you think. Our weather, while still no snow, has turned very cold again. Not sure what's happening to our climate. Everyone is talking about the abnormal weather patterns this year. Global warming may be further along than we think.

The Artistic Spirit Haunts Me...

2010-01-04T09:05:00.000-08:00

As we welcome in 2010, I have to consider the challenges that face persons who have artistic spirits. While I do not consider myself an artist of great talents (based on the balance in my bank account) I do accept that I have some inborn abilities that keep demanding they be acknowledged. This forces me to always seek outlets for this energy that plagues me every day of my life. So, you have witnessed a few of my vices...er, talents? I am ever being pushed by this unknown force to pick up and create in whatever form and manner I can. Today, it is clay. While not finished and still in a rough state here is my attempt to quiet the artistic spirit inside my head. The clays are whatever I had laying about so they don't blend together perfectly. I welcome your remarks. Yes, I know, I should try and focus on one artform, but for some unexplained reason I simply find this impossible. I suppose this is what creates a 'Jack of all trades and master of none'? The sculpture is of my cowboy husband when he wore a mustache. He is now clean-shaven, but I still have fond memories of these days. He is resting in this pose so his eyes are closed. Okay, this little adventure is complete, I can get back to painting. Heads, I win?

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T10:08:00.000-08:00

Today is the first day...

May all your hearts be filled with happiness and your worries slip away.

I spent the last day of 2009 working on my gull painting. Here is the final on it. I am more pleased with the sun area now. Happy to hear what you all think.

We had a quiet New Years which we prefer. At midnight we observed some neighborhood fireworks and then went peacefully to sleep in the year 2010. Today found our snow melted off by rain and the sun shining bright in a blue sky. We are heading up the mountain to snow shoe.

Gull In Sky...

2009-12-28T14:13:00.000-08:00

Just painted the Watercolor Workshop Group Painting for December and thought I'd post it. It was a quick little study, and while I'm not thrilled about how the sun turned out overall I am pleased. It's nice to work on something quick.

Christmas was wonderful this year. I enjoyed watching the grandchildren open their gifts and loved being present in their lives again. I can't say I'm sad that the new year is approaching. I'm looking forward to great things in 2010, not only for myself but for all my friends and loved ones.

Christmas Pageant

2009-12-17T17:15:00.000-08:00

Today was Sophia's Christmas Pageant. She was one of the angels at the birth of Jesus. These children did a tremendous job in their portrayal. Thought you might enjoy seeing our little angel.

Spam!

2009-12-17T08:55:00.000-08:00

I wanted to let you all know that a post was placed in my blog yesterday entitled 'Nice Day'. It was not posted by me. This was spam and was somehow posted to my blog. I have do not recommend any of the stuff in the posting and have never heard of this before. Please do not attempt to go to the site since I am certain it will cause problems for you. I was able to delete the post from my site, but it remains in the list of posts. I don't seem to be able to remove it from there. I am so sorry this has happened and I really wish these people would stop interfering with others personal information.

Finished!

2009-12-16T15:47:00.000-08:00

Sophia is finished and ready to frame. While I still see things I think should be altered, it's time to stop. I really admire all the wonderful portraiture artists out there who can whip these things out without stopping. I have found this painting to be challenging. While I do believe I captured the essence of Sophia, it certainly is not a dead ringer for her, she is much more beautiful.

Today warmed up and we lost all our hard earned snow. It has been raining off and on. Our next few days are supposed to stay warmer.

It Snowed!

2009-12-15T10:28:00.000-08:00

Well, it isn't much but it's a start. Enough to get the Christmas Spirit going. Here's our wee little Christmas Tree...

Here's the Weeping Birch Tree outside my window (the one Sophia is sitting against in her portrait). I love the way it's weeping branches look in the winter.

See the bit of snow on the branches????

This is the "weeping" part of the tree.

Sophia's trusty steed was left out in the snow last night.

So, as I gaze upon my 'winter wonderland' (didn't I tell you I'm creative?) I feel the joys of this wonderous season. The warmth of my family's love and the countless blessings I sometimes overlook.

Merry Christmas to you all.

Sophia WIP 3...

2009-12-13T19:39:00.000-08:00

Still no snow, but I did find some time to work on Sophia's painting. This is not the final. There are still some shadows to put in and I'm not happy with the tree yet. Thought I would give you all a chance to comment before I go any further. The one part of the painting that I thought was going to be so simple (the tree) has proven to be the most challenging. I did it with detail and liked it but it detracted from Sophia. Then I wiped it out and didn't like that. Now I'm putting more detail in, but not as much as at first. I will have to finish soon since I hope to have this finished for Christmas.

The weather forecasters are predicting snow for us by Tuesday so my fingers are crossed.

Dreaming of a White Christmas...

2009-12-12T20:18:00.000-08:00

I had to go back to last year's photographs, the ones my son sent to me while complaining about the 'tons of snow' he was having to shovel. Well, it's nearly Christmas and we have no snow. I'm a believer in a White Christmas, so I think it's time we all concentrate and see if we can't conjure of some of the white stuff. Your help is appreciated.

Snowing on my Blog...

2009-12-11T09:49:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Bonnie at Original Art Studio, who provided the directions on how to do this, I now have a snow storm on my blog! This is to celebrate the winter season, which I love. I am sorry to have been missing from my blog for so long. I have been battling a bad case of bronchitis. I am on the mend and will be back to painting and posting beginning today.

Cold Sunday...

2009-12-06T16:10:00.000-08:00

It's blustery and COLD here today. The temperatures are to drop to 4 degrees tonight and we live in a motorhome!!

Actually, we are doing fairly well so far. My husband thinks I'm daft for wanting to winter in the Northwest, but here we are and here we stay since there is no way to move now. He mentions Florida, Hawaii, Arizona and Texas with a far away look in his eyes...as if trying to tell me something. What a great sport he is. Down side is that I have bronchitis and am trying to get well again. Up side is our son is cooking dinner for us tonight so I will get to see the grandkids (that's Ben and Sophia) and will have no dishes to do. Hee Hee.

I made my Iowa version of Tiramasu from a wonderful English shortbread, homemade vanilla custard and bananas. Guess there will have to be whipped cream as well. Can't wait 'til dinner. Hope you are all having wonderful weekends, that you dream of sugar plums tonight and that the coming week is prosperous for one and all. In the meantime, I thought I would share a bit of my writing with you. This is an opening to a short story that I will be trying to publish. I hope you enjoy it and feel free to give me your feedback.

(Copyrighted Material. Duplication or Unauthorized use of the following material strictly prohibited under law.)

(Excerpt from)

The Bulls & The Blood

C Hummel Kornell

The body was heavy, almost too heavy. A final shove propelled it forward across the fence and into the pen. Bulls scattered from the unexpected intrusion. Shadows concealed the hurried retreat to a car hidden nearby. The ignition switch and interior lights had been disabled to allow undetected entry. In minutes this place would be far behind. Pulling a handkerchief from a jacket pocket to wipe away the victim’s blood before opening the car door, the fallen lighter went undetected.

The crowd roared approval as Bill displayed the dismount he was famous for, landing on his feet and bowing to the audience. Muscular with a stubborn set to his jaw which accentuated his dimples and dancing green eyes, he was a vision of raw strength packaged in a pair of well-fitting Wranglers. He was a cowboy, a World Champion Bull Rider. The powerful Brahma trotted toward the catch pen as Bill reached to retrieve his hat, waving it at the spectators and bringing a renewed cheer. Grinning in appreciation he neared the chutes. Two burly Sheriff’s deputies stepped forward, cuffed him and began—

“You have the right to remain silent…”

“I don’t understand what I’m doing here, Sheriff,” his head pounded from the lack of sleep and food. Last night had been a nightmare and now this—

“You’re a suspect in a murder case, cowboy. Where were you last night between midnight and 6:00 a.m.?” The overweight Sheriff swallowed the last bite of donut, wiping sticky fingers on his pants.

“I’ve already told you, I was asleep in my truck at the rodeo grounds.” He caught the Sheriff’s smile at the loud sound of his stomach growling.

“Hungry, boy; want a donut? Tell you what, you come clean with us and I’ll see to it you get fed. You keep up with this innocent act and I’ll keep you here ‘til you’re old and grey.” A loud belch accentuated his statement causing the deputy to snicker.

He’d had enough, he needed to sleep and he was done playing around with these clowns. “No thanks, Sheriff, I don’t want to look like you. I could use an attorney and a phone call right about now.”

The tone in the room changed to one of controlled rage as the Sheriff ordered him taken to a holding cell until the call and an attorney could be arranged.

Through a sleepy haze she reached for the phone, coming wide-awake when she heard the frantic voice on the other end.

“Hey, Angel, I need you. I’ve got some trouble here, can you come?”

She’d never heard Bill sound like this before. “What’s happened, where are you?” The bright lamplight hurt her eyes as she searched for a pen and paper.

“Babe, I don’t have long, I’m in jail in Santa Fe. Get all the money together you can and get here, quick. They’re cutting me off, I love…” the phone went dead.

‘World Champion Cowboy held for murder of jealous husband’, the USA Today headlines glared from the newsstand. Quickly she rented a car, got directions to the county jail and minutes later stood facing a Sheriff’s Deputy across a cluttered counter.

“What do you mean I can’t see him?” Emotions boiled while she fought not to lose control and cry. “I’m his fiancé, he asked me to come.”

“Sorry, little lady, I don’t care if you’re Queen of England, if you ain’t his attorney or his priest, you ain't going in, Sheriff’s orders.”

She lost the battle. A tear spilled slowly down her cheek as a tall man wearing a fringed jacket, boots, cowboy hat and huge silver buckle stepped to the counter beside her. His features were Native American but his eyes were crystal blue, creating a mesmerizing face. He gently patted her shoulder while flashing credentials at the Deputy whose expression changed to one of disbelief.

The newcomer’s south Texas drawl resonated through the waiting area, “We’ll see the young man in question, now.”

“Uh, yes sir. Just a minute, please, I’ve got to get the Sheriff,” the deputy disappeared through a door.

The Sheriff appeared somewhat flustered as he approached. “Mr. Whitman, what can we…”

“First, we want to see my client. Next I want to see all the files pertaining to his arrest. When is the arraignment scheduled?”

The Sheriff barked orders for the prisoner to be brought to a private interview room returning his attention to the man he’d called Mr. Whitman.

“Prisoner’s not to have visitors. This is a murder, you know.”

“I’m Mr. Cornell’s attorney, Sheriff; I assume his rights are not being challenged here? He’s allowed to have an attorney isn’t he, due process and all? I’d like to discuss the matter of his questioning without counsel present. I assume transcripts of that questioning will be with the papers you are quickly compiling for me?”

Some of the air had been let out of the Sheriff, but he made one further attempt to take charge, “You’re the attorney, who’s she?”

“She’s my assistant. I always have an assistant present when I speak with clients. Any problem, Sheriff?”

The Sheriff made a futile gesture with his hands, “Give him what he wants, boys. I’ll be at the house having dinner.”

They were ushered into a room where the files were already displayed on a conference table. Bill stood shackled and waiting.

“Is this really necessary, boys?” Whitman began shuffling through the files, “I’d like to have those removed. I’ll take full responsibility.” The deputies removed the handcuffs and ankle chains.

“Thanks, boys. You can leave us now. I’ll give a holler if we need anything.”

His hand thrust forward toward Bill who took it in greeting. “Howdy, son, I’m a big fan. In case you don’t already know me, I’m Chance Whitman. You might have heard of me from my rodeo career, but I’m a fair attorney as well. I’m here to represent you. I know your name, son, but who is this lovely young lady? From the trouble she was having out front I assume you two are old friends.” He flashed a smile.

“Yes, sir, I know who you are, on both accounts. It’s a real honor to meet you. This here’s Angela, most everyone calls her Angel. I’m not sure we have enough money to pay for your help.”

Chance laughed at the last remark, “No, son, I don’t suppose you do. For right now let’s just say I’m one cowboy helping out another. We can get into more details on why I’m here later; right now we need to figure out what’s happened. I’m assuming you didn’t really murder this guy.” Angel drew in her breath and both men smiled at her.

“No, sir, I didn’t. All I did was offer him some sound advice in front of about a hundred eye witnesses.”

There was that laugh again, “Well, hell, son, I thought we were going to have a tough time convincing a jury you were innocent. If we only have to prove to a hundred eye witnesses that what they thought they saw or heard was really not what happened, we’ve got it made. Should be done by tomorrow at the latest. Now, kiss the girl, pull up a chair and start at the beginning.”

Sophia WIP 2...

2009-12-04T12:36:00.000-08:00

After many distractions, I have finally found time to try and work on Sophia. This is not the final, but I hope I am getting close. Wanted your comments. I still need to pull grass up around birch tree and perhaps darken the shadow beneath Sophia. Perhaps a bit of work on her hair as well. Thanks in advance for helping me.

Hope you are all having a wonderful December.

Family Tradition...

2009-11-27T15:59:00.000-08:00

The true meaning, to me, behind Thanksgiving is giving thanks for the long-ago hospitality shown to our ancestors by the Native Americans. Without their assistance it's questionable if any of us would be here today. Over the years as our family traditions evolved so have our Thanksgiving dishes. I thought it would be interesting to see how many different dishes are served as a family tradition at this time of year. I'll start.

My Mother and Grandmother always made their version of Waldorf Salad. Our version includes apples, dates, grapes, celery and walnuts. The dressing was simple, mayo with sugar (honey if you prefer) and a splash of milk if needed. If it was a really good year, the salad would be dressed with whipping cream. It's simple and always reminds me of the special family times shared with loved ones.

Okay, your turn, what dishes mean "holidays" to you and your family?

This was my last kitchen before we became full time RVers. I painted the skirt on the island that my husband made for me. The top was a solid piece of Larch that he cut down years before in Montana. The skirt was patterned after the canister that my son, Chris, gave me. I really do miss the kitchen and the home we had.

Happy Thanksgiving...

2009-11-26T09:19:00.000-08:00

Life has been so hectic lately that I've fallen behind in my posts.

I wanted everyone to know that I wish them Peace, Happiness and a Full Plate this wonderful Thanksgiving. Please remember that Blessings are counted in those we have close to us (friends, family, loved ones) not in what we have monetarily.

Happy Thanksgiving and I will be back next week with more postings. Enjoy that pumpkin pie!

Creatividad e imaginación fotos de José Ramón: Entre pitas ( Among pitas )

2009-11-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

Creatividad e imaginación fotos de José Ramón: Entre pitas ( Among pitas )

Beautiful work!

WIP of Sophia Watercolor...

2009-11-11T18:56:00.000-08:00

I am attempting my very first watercolor portrait (with a FACE). The painting is of my granddaughter, Sophia. She was sitting, leaning against a larger birch tree outside my window, strumming oner her guitar. I had to take some photos and now I'm painting her. I'm enjoying the process and have much left to do, but thought you all might like to get a look at what is done so far. As always, I welcome your suggestions. The background will be the birch tree, sky and grass. Should be muted so not to compete with my 'little princess'. Oh, her shoes aren't finished yet.

Alaskan Memories...

2009-11-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

With my husband's flying I have been fortunate to have spent quite a bit of time in Alaska. One of the things that most amazes me is the family ties that exist between bear sows and their cubs. They are so gentle and caring with the little ones, but there are times when a smack occurs or a growling scold. One must keep the little ones in line and teach them proper manners. Here are a few of my photos of Moms teaching their cubs to fish.

Mom No. 1. Notice the intent look on the little guy's face. He's really trying to grasp her instructions.

Mom No. 2. Her lessons have been learned, now watch closely, he's about to hit pay dirt...

Once caught, he took his Salmon to the shore so he
might enjoy the fruits of his labors. This is such an
important time of year. They must put on weight to
carry them through the long hibernation period.

Mom No. 3. They aren't fishing, but I thought they were too cute not to post. This little guy was so inquisitive and was about to get into all kinds of mischief. This Mom had her hands full.

Should you ever have the opportunity to visit Alaska, by all means do so. It is a wonderful place.

A Blue Day...

2009-11-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

This is it, I'm done, not another touch of paint is going onto this one! Of course, I may change my mind, but for now, I'm calling it FINISHED! Sorry the photo is not so great, the sun has disappeared and flash simply doesn't work with artwork. Anyway, you get the general idea. Actually, I kind of like it. Who knew.

A Rose By Any Other Name...

2009-11-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

Here is installment three. I thought it might be the final, but after running it past my critique group have decided to keep messing with the flower. Just in case I ruin the painting, thought I'd post what would have been the final. Why am I never satisfied? As before, I would like to have your comments and I hope you are not tiring of my revisiting my paintings.

I have just sketched my next painting which will be of our little Angle, Sophia. She is growing and changing so fast, I thought I had best try and catch her before she's all grown up. I'm not a portrait painter so this will prove to be a real challenge for me. If it turns out, I will present it to her parents for Christmas.

I'll try and photograph the sketch and post it later. I am also sketching out the two cows and a calf that the Nikon Sniper posted recently. He has been good enough to allow me to paint from his photo...of course I will be obtaining a Nikon Sniper tattoo in return. If you haven't checked out Stephen's blog, please do. He is a wonderful and prolific photographer who posts some really remarkable work. You will find his blog listed in my followers. Tell him I said "Hi" if you stop by.