Palaver from Pellie & Genghis Khat

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T06:32:00.000-08:00

Talking About Daisies

2012-01-24T06:59:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

The snow is almost gone here in my little corner of Illinois - but our Temperature has been playing games - up and down like a sea-saw it goes. From below zero to in the 40's and quite frankly I've had enough of this. Mother Nature - you hear that - enough I say. I don't mind the cold or the winter heat wave as long as it stays there awhile when it comes but this up down stuff is hard on my fibromyalgia.

Consequently I was feeling a bit crabby and had nothing to really blog about - since my mom always taught us "If you don't have something nice to say don't say nothing at all." But then I remembered a few kind visitors had comment on the daisy afghan that Genghis was sprawled out on a few post back.

So I quickly gathered a few of my other throws and decided I could talk about these sweet things all day.

The one with the yellow centers is the second one I made for my mom way back in the 70's. The first one was from a kit which had wool yarn and while she loved the look of it she didn't like the scratchiness of it or want the trouble and expense to keep it up. So I made her a new washable one. She liked that one better. Now that she has passed on - it has come back to me.

Each daisy - all 325 or so of them are made individually on a loom and then are all crochet together using a chain stitch. I found the entire process to be rather relaxing.

I have made these for various family member in every color imaginable and each one is a work of heart.

The gray one in the picture is in our north woods room in the basement and the one with the pink centers calls my craft room home.

"Crocheting acts as a mental and physical therapy and there are many beautiful things that are created in the process." ...Today's Crochet World

Maybe I'll pick up my crochet hook and do a little therapy.

Thanks for coming by.

Hugs,
Penny

Bird TV

2012-01-23T01:37:00.000-08:00

Hello evfurryone,

This Mancat Monday I am making sure I get my post in - even if I have to put the bitey on Pellie to do so.

ON Sunday when Pellie and Sir Knight were eating breakfast Pellie kept looking outside. Curious as to what had her full attention - Sir Knight had to turn around and look out the window also. Both of those silly humans thought it was a squirrel they were watching.

Me I knew better and if I wasn't so busy watching him myself - I would have laughed and made fun of them. I had a great view of Live Bird TV.

So imagine their surprise when this fellow finally finished his snack and took off.
Man that was an impressive sight,

This is the first Hawk I have ever seen in my own backyard.

Well Pellie is giving me the look - so I best get busy with my snoopervising job,

Hope everyone has a great week.

Purrs,
Genghis

(At least at first they did - when they realized it was a hawk they snapped this picture.)

Third times a charm?

2012-01-22T14:04:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,
Blogger and I have not been getting along very well - It refuses to play nice. It messes up the order of my pictures, jumps around like a centipede with athletes feet when I try to add a hyper link and has made an absolute pain of itself. I will therefore try to do this post for the third time and hope it comes out.

Time has flown buy since my last post and not because I was having lots of fun either.
Sir Knight and I have been engaged in a project of epic proportion - we decided that here in 2012 we would finish up a lot of our unfinished projects.

The first of which is a full scale assault,clean up and organization of the basement.
Phase one is nearly finished as we redid the area under the stairs to be a usable storage area and not a junk collection area. I'll take a few pictures when we are done - but not one minute before as I am too embarrassed of all the mess.

We are seeing a little light at the end of this tunnel - so we sure do hope the end is in sight and it's not a runaway train ready to hit us head on and roll over us.

As a nice change of pace from basement dirt & grime - I signed up to join the January swap over at the Blissful ATC Swap Blog. This months theme was Jane Austen and she is one of my favorite authors so how could I not join.

My partner this month was the talented Victoria over at "Things I Learn from Bear".
So I wanted to start by showing you all the cute little envelope that contained my ATC. Isn't it cute.

This is the card she sent. Oh my it is so darn gorgeous - I love it.

Thank you so much Victoria. I really love it and appreciate all the time and effort you put into it.

Here is the card I sent to Victoria. I wanted it to have an old fashion feel to it, so I constructed it as a pop-up card. This is the card when it is closed up.

This is how the card looks when it is popped up and sitting on a table.

The construction included digitally putting a picture of Pemberly on a background of roses, and adjusting it to fit the standard ATC card dimensions. Then I found a great picture of my favorite Movie Mr. Darcy (Colin Firth) and Elizabeth Bennet (Jennifer Ehle)on there wedding day and worked out the necessities so it would pop-up in front of my background. I also added a couple of extra rose bouquets on either side of my happy couple. To give it a bit of sparkle I added some pink ribbon in the same shade as the roses which was trimmed in gold to both sides of the card.

I titled it Love in Bloom, Mr Darcy Takes a wife.

It was a challenge figuring the sizes and shape of the folded paper necessary to make the pop up work - but I felt it was certainly worth it. Hope Victoria liked it.

This is the envelope I made to hold my card. I copied a piece of a page from her Persuasion manuscript and added a silhouette which is suppose to be of Jane herself.

Well that's about all I can think of to write for now - so I guess I'll bid you all a fond adieu.

Hugs,
Penny

I guess the third time was a charm - I got it all posted and in order YEAH!!

My First Real Post of the New Year.

2012-01-05T05:12:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

So good of you to drop by for a visit.

As my first mosaic stated - I'm not setting any New Years Resolutions again this year and will continue to work my way through my self care cards I received last year. Setting one particular goal on a month to month basis seems to work so much better for me. One month is long enough to really feel one has worked on the goal and hopefully commit it to memory.

The card I picked for this month as you see above - is Gratitude.
I was raised to say Please and Thank you - and while I really don't feel too deficient in this particular virtue; It certainly is one - we can never get to many reminders about.

With that being said - I wanted to tell you all about the wonderful surprise I received on Christmas eve. The mailman pulled up in front of my house and was carrying a package. Since I had received all the packages from my distant family - I was wondering what it could be.

This package arrived all the way from Germany - sent to me by my friend Johanna; who has a wonderful blog called "Silber & Rosen" (Silver & Roses) and if you haven't checked it out you really should.

This wonderful Sea Serpent plaque set my heart all a flutter - I just love him to pieces and insisted that Sir Knight get him hung up in a place of honor ASAP. So there you see him on the antique map of Odious, world we have on the wall in our Library. He looks pretty happy to be swimming around in those mythological seas don't you think? I thought he did.

My Dragon book mark is currently holding my space in "Women Who Run With the Wolves; Myths & Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype" by Clarissa Pinkola Este's, Ph.D..
The book and bookmark feed my wild woman side.

Thank you so much Johanna; your generosity knows no bounds and I am thrilled and thankful for your gifts; and I am especially grateful for you friendship.

Usually Sir Knight and I don't buy each other gifts - since if we feel we can afford it - we buy whatever we need when we need it - but this year he went ahead and bought me some great new punches. I am thrilled and delighted with them and can not wait to see what kind of flowers I can make out of paper with the McGill set.

Thank you dear Sir Knight - I will be using them soon. Never fear.

As you heard from Genghis on Monday - Sir Knight and I went to the Grand Opening of our New and improved larger Goodwill. It was pretty crowded - but I was still able to find a few Thrifty Treasures and wanted to take a little time and share them with you.

Whenever I enter any Goodwill I always head to the housewares aisle first. Mainly I look for any and all pieces of my Pfaltzgraff Tea Rose pattern - but I look at anything pretty. So anyhow - I found these two cute little trinket boxes in a delightful chintz pattern. The price was right at $0.88; so they came home with me.

Next I headed over to the wall of books and immediately found these great buys. The Renaissance Rat in me seems to smell a Renaissance book a mile away. Since I didn't have this particular one on Henry the 8th I was thrilled to find a $25.00 book for only $0.88. The one on William the Conqueror is not Renaissance - but how could I pass it up - as it was written by the same author and probably part of a series. and besides another $25.00 book for only $0.88 is a steal.

As I moved down the bookcase to the children's book I spied this great little Disney pop-up book about the Fairies of Pixie Hollow and I had to get as well. Fairies are always welcome in my studio and are acceptable reading for when my granddaughters come over. And the price - yep you guessed it only $0.88.

So for a grand total of $5.00 and some change for the Governor - I walked away with some really incredible finds.

Now I really don't mean to be too melancholy here but I do lament the loss of my Old Friend Goodwill before he became "the" in place to shop. When the rich and even most middle class folks turned their noses up at his treasures refusing to step into the store much less shop for used items.
Now Nate Berkus and his Friend Mr Goodwill Hunting have turned it into the Place to be. Brand new Cadillacs and Lincolns grace the parking lot and the rich flood the store, filling their carts to overflowing - making it difficult for the poorer & middle class folk to get in on the bargains.

Oooops, sorry, this has turned into a novella - so I guess I best get off my soap box and get busy around the house.

Hugs,
Penny

I hope you have most Pleasant 12th day of Christmas and a Wonderful 12th Night.

Afternoon Nap - Almost Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

Uhmm Hello evfurryone,

It looks like you caught me napping. I know what your thinking - napping again. Hey it's a tough life but someone has to do it; so it might as well be me.

Well now that I'm awake - I might as well do a little post before I head to a different location - where the flashy box thingy won't find and disturb me.

I know this is suppose to be Wordless Wednesday - but you know me - I sure do like to talk.

In answer to all those who inquired; the woofie I was forced to endure over Christmas - belonged to one of the Grandbeans and his girlfriend. Her name(The woofies not the grandbeans girlfriend) is Peaches and she lives a couple blocks over from my house. Thank goodness.

They said she was just a puppy and couldn't stay home by herself for such a long time so they had to bring her. Likely story if you ask me.

That's the skinny on what's happening around here at the moment - so I think I return to my nap, just as soon as I find a good place to hide out.

Purrs,
Genghis

Getting back in the groove of Mancat Monday

2012-01-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

Hello evfurryone,

Well Pellie and Sir Knight are finally back from the store. Our Goodwill moved to a new and improved, bigger building; so they where having their Grand Opening today. Of course Pellie had to go - so they left early this morning and just got home a little bit ago.

Now that they are home I can do my post. Yeah!!!!!!!

I was so busy before Christmas. Much busier than Pellie & Sir Knight. Since those two were kind of slow getting the last of the presents wrapped - I was late in getting the banquet table checked to make sure it was safe and would not fall down during the Christmas dinner.

I guess there was no harm done I finished it up in time and Sir Knight got right on to fixing the problems I found and pointed out. Loose Screws are not an option when you put safety first.

By Christmas afternoon - I was done working and was catching a nap in front of the tree; when Sir Knight came at me with the flashy box. Cool it dude, can't you see I'm resting up for the arrival of all the grandbeans.

Imagine my dismay - when this thing showed up on my floor. A woofy - dang people this is my house - I didn't say you could bring a woofy over - especially one who yaps a lot and chases me around the house. Have some respect. next time please. I don't care how cute she is - she is still a woofy. Humans...

Well it's time for my nap so I best end my post. I hope you all had a wonderful New Years Day and that the rest of the year is just as good.

Purrs,
Genghis

Happy New Years ! Friends.

2012-01-01T05:39:00.000-08:00

The New Year
By Grace Noll Crowell

The new year lies before us, white and clean:
So many lovely days in which to live,
So many hours to spend like silver coins,
So many precious moments God will give
For us to use in service and in love,
In friendliness and sympathy, until
our lives may be like fountains, lifting up
To sparkle in the sunlight and to spill
In radiance and beauty all about,
That other lives may catch the gleam and shine
Of spraying fountains, lifting, filled with light,
That will be your life, friend, that will be mine.

Oh help us live so beautifully, God.
This year of all years, that we may be
Like showers of blessings, falling on mankind-
Bright fountains, lifting high and clear to Thee.

Hello everyone,

We trust that you all had a wonderful Christmas; and that Father Time's departure and Baby New Years arrival brought you no new adversities to face in 2012.

Sir Knight and I both had colds for Christmas - but the pesky little germs departed within a normal amount of time and we are once again feeling better.

Since we share the philosophy that home is the safest and best place to be on New Years eve. We brought in the New Year quietly - toasting our love and life and then quickly headed to bed.

We will be entertaining friends this afternoon - if they don't get blown away by the cold gusty winds that have settled upon us this morning; so I must cut this post short and go help Sir Knight in the kitchen.

May God bless you today and everyday during this New Year.

Hugs,
Penny & Sir Knight

Purrs,
Genghis

A Prayer
by S.M. Frazier

Give me work to do,
Give me health,
Give me joy in simple things,
Give me an eye for beauty,
A tongue for truth,
A heart that loves,
A mind that reasons,
A sympathy that understands.
Give me neither malice nor envy,
But a true kindness
And a noble common sense.
At the close of each day
Give me a book
And a friend with whom I can be silent.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

More to Christmas

There's more, much more, to Christmas
Than candlelight and cheer;
It's the spirit of sweet friendship,
That brightens all the year;
It's thoughtfulness and kindness,
It's hope reborn again,
For peace, for understanding
And for goodwill to men.
Anonymous

We wish everyone a Blessed and Happy Christmas.

Hugs,
Pellie & Sir Knight

Purrs,
Genghis

We're Back!!!

2011-12-19T04:54:00.000-08:00

Hello Evfurryone,
We are back, Yeah! - Or at least, I hope we are.

Pellie was not feeling very good and so we just could not get on the computer very much.

Actually Pellie wants to tell you all about that herself; but I told her since it was officially mancat Monday I had to do a short post first.

We did catch up on a lot of sleep and I got lots of extra hugs and I gave Pellie lots of love and head buts - so that was good. However, we missed you all very much, and that was the real hard part. Did you miss me?

Well Pellie is starting to push me off the chair so I guess I'm done for today.

Purrs,
Genghis

Hello everyone,

It's been a long time since we have gotten to visit with each other and I have missed you all very much.

Way back the first part of October - I was Lucky enough to get the Chickenpox - a disease I had been previously immune to. Fibromyalgia is suspected to be an auto immune disease so it must have really messed things up for me; and at age 61 years young I was blessed with a childhood illness. Take it from me - it was no picnic. I would have rather dealt with it when I was young - like I did all the other childhood illnesses. The older you are the harder you fall. So while the rash cleared up in it's normal two week time period - the rest of me lagged behind in the recuperation department. I felt like a very washed out and limp dish rag - unable to do much of anything.

As each day brought just a little more energy to me - I noticed for some reason my eyes burned and hurt and I was unable to be on the computer for any length of time. I really don't know know what was up with that - maybe they just couldn't handle all the extra sleep and protested. I am able now to get on and stay on for maybe a half an hour - so I will try and post a little more often and get around to visiting all of you soon, but please be patient with me.

I want to thank all of you who e-mailed and commented your concerns - you are truly friends of the heart and my heart is so happy to call you friend.

I also want to thank my dearest Sir Knight for all the love, care and understanding he imparted on me during my illness, way beyond the call of duty. Especially the understanding - yes honey, I do realize that I was a very poor patient and on occasion a poor excuse for a person too. I also want to thank you for keeping up with all my emails for me - so my inbox didn't become daunting (even if you claimed you didn't know what you were doing when it came to the comment moderation stuff and Facebook stuff.) Thanks gain for everything Love you honey

Hopefully this is me waving goodbye to the Doctor for a good long while.

Hugs to each and everyone of you.
Penny

Thank you to all the Veterans

2011-11-11T04:27:00.000-08:00

And I am proud to be an American

where at least I know I'm free

And I won't forget the men who served

to give that right to me.

Adapted from the "Song God Bless The USA" by Lee Greenwood

Hello Evfurryone,

Pellie and I want to take this opportunity to thank all the Veterans, including our own dear Sir Knight, for doing their part to see that we remain a free nation.

Lincoln’s words are enshrined among the best of Veterans Day quotes. He said in the famous Gettysburg Address about the soldiers who died: “But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow this ground.

“The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here.”

"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave." -Elmer Davis

Purrs, & Thanks,
Genghis

Hugs & Thank you
Penny

Hiding on Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

A corny tail/tale on Mancat Monday

2011-11-07T02:39:00.000-08:00

Hello evfurry one,

There I was having a nice after Halloween snooze and I felt someone crawl up behind me - I thought this was rather strange since I don't have any siblings - but hey I was ready to just ignore it.

Then I felt whom ever it was start to try and push me off the chair- believe you me - that didn't make me very happy.

Then, I swear to you it bit me in the bum, right before the flashy box went off.

Well that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Purrs,
Genghis

Welcome to my Steampunk Tea

2011-11-06T10:52:00.000-08:00

Come away with me - if you will.

Join me in celebrating the first of hopefully many - Steam Tea Travels. - provided by our Friends at Plush Possum Studios. Today our wonderful imaginary airship has taken us to Victorian era Paris.

Please come in and make yourself comfortable - the tea is poured and I adore your company

Please forgive me for planning a Gothic tea for us today - but I have not been able to get Halloween completely out of my system yet.

Thank you so much for dropping by - I hope to see you again next month; when with a bit more planning and preparation time ( hopefully I still wont be ill) - I am planning a huge Holiday Spectacular

Hugs,
Penny

P.S. I just wanted to let you know that I entered my art piece into the November Challenge over at Mary's blog Green Papers Blog, since I did use part or all of her three items in my picture.

Happy Halloweeen

2011-10-31T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,
This man cat Monday is in honor of my brofur Dale and all the other cute Black Halloween Cats out there.

Hope you all have a great time this Halloween -whether your out playing beneath the autumn sky or staying warm and toasty in your house.
Yea I know this spider has nothing to do with black cats - I just thought it was cool.

Pellie bought this card when she & Sir Knight only had Dale. She says it reminds her of him every time see looks at it.

I'm still on Pellie watch - so - I'll be warm inside tonight.

Purrs,
Genghis

Beware Movie Monsters on the Prowl

2011-10-21T01:12:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone,

The theme for October over at the Blissful ATC Swap was Movie Monsters. - How fun is that for an art theme?

The terrific card above of the ever good looking monster of Frankenstein is the one I received from my partner Jane over at Anything but... Plain Jane Blog. Thank you so much Jane I really Love my New ATC.

I really liked watching Creature Features on Friday Nights and Frankie was always one of my favorite monsters.

To the more modern taste in horror movies - I suppose these were too hokey - but it's what I grew up on and quite frankly I really have a hard time stomaching all the blood and guts stuff that passes for horror now.

Here is all the goodies Jane sent along with her Card. Thank you so much for you generosity.

Here are all the goodies together in one picture.

One of my other Favorite creatures - growing up - was the Creature from the Black Lagoon.
so that is who I created my ATC about.

I layered different colors & levels of tissue paper for the lagoon, the beach and the land to give my card texture and a bit of depth. I used dots to raise my creature to look as if he was coming out of the lagoon. Added a little moss to give it that Amazon Jungle look. I really thought he came out rather nice. - If I can be so bold to use the term nice and creature all in the same sentence.

Here is the picture of the card I made to accompany my ATC on it's trip. I sure hope Jane liked it.

Well I need to get back to bed - I really am hoping to be better soon - so I can get back to visiting with all of you wonderful friends.

Hugs,
Penny

All Most Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T02:15:00.001-07:00

Hi Evfurryone,

I'm still busy on Pellie Patrol - today I picked me a closer vantage point - under Sir Knight's pillow. I won't miss a thing from here and won't have to go far if she needs me.

Purrs,
Genghis

Thinking

2011-10-17T02:59:00.000-07:00

Hello Evfurryone,

Wow! Here it is Monday already. I was just sitting here giving some real thought to what I wanted to be for Halloween and I just can't decide. Robin Hood - Captain America - so many cool hero's but which one to choose Any ideas or suggestions that you might be able to offer me would certainly be appreciated.

Well this post is going to be short - since Pellie is sick - and of course it is my job to take care of her while Sir Knight is at work, so I really can't dally here on the computer too long.

One of these days I'll be able to visit more.

Purrs,
Genghis

Good morning

2011-10-13T03:06:00.000-07:00

The graphic above is from a terrific site I found called Magical Graphics - check them out.

Good morning everyone,

The time at the tone is 5:07 AM and what the heck am I doing up and out of bed this early?
I sure as heck don't know. - Don't you just hate it when you wake up real early and can't fall back to sleep? I know I do.
No use crying about it - just use the time to get a bit of blogging and visiting in.

Way back in September when I was participating in the Gypsy Dreams Blog Hop - I entered a giveaway over at Laura's blog the Crafty Little Woman ( read her Gypsy post here.) Guess what - I won. Yipee!!!!

My prize was here waiting for me - when Sir Knight and I returned from our previously mentioned long weekend away from home. But my also mentioned upper respiratory bug has made life miserable for me and I have been very lacks at getting news posted.

So at this time I would Like to share with all of you - my wonderful prize.
Drum roll please. >>>>>>

This gorgeous bracelet is now mine - all mine. Isn't it pretty? I love it and am waiting till I feel better so I can get out and about and enjoy wearing it.
Laura also sent that wonderful tag along with the bracelet. Thank you so Much for your generosity Laura; I really do love and appreciate it.

Watching Genghis sleep -is making me sleepy - so I think I'll try to catch a few more ZZZ - before I really start my day in earnest.

Hugs,
Penny

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-12T01:38:00.001-07:00

Pretties that arrived from afar

2011-10-11T06:34:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
The Last week in September - Sir Knight and I took a Long Weekend away from home. We arrived home late Sunday evening tired by happy.

That euphoria was short lived however - as by Monday evening I was deep into a full blown upper respiratory infection. (Runny nose, barky cough and tight chest plus the usual aches and pains that accompany it.)

My cough is much better and my chest is only a little bit tight - but now I have laryngitis.
( A blessing to Sir Knight ears maybe - but not so good for my overall mood and general disposition)

On the lighter side -when I arrived home there was a box from my friend Karla (check out her art blog here) waiting for me. The mosaic above show you just a glimpse of how pretty everything looked - before I started in ripping off all the wrappings. Karla sure has a knack for pretty and as much as I hated messing with perfection - I was way to nosey to see what was in store fore me inside - to linger to long with the wrappings.

You might remember that when Karla and I started trading ATC's privately, among our selves -I made her a cute little box to hold the cards she would receive from me.

Well Karla liked that idea so much that she made me a special box to hold the cards she makes for me.

This is the beautiful box she made for me. Isn't it just gorgeous. My pictures don't quite do it justice but I'm sure you get an idea how awesome it is. Thank you so much Karla - it is truly a work of heart.

Here is the the inside of the box - again so pretty and look at all the goodies that lay inside waiting for me to open them.

Our Theme for August's ATC was "At the Water Edge" so Karla made me this wonderful beach scene card. I love the wonderful play of the colors and check out the miniature shells - so darn cute.

The September theme was back to school and here is Karla's card - a sure winner in my book.

Here is an extra gifty that Karla sent me. A stunning ATC made from the petal of Rainbow roses. Isn't that butterfly something else. I love it.

Way back when we first started to swap I sent Miss Peach & Hunny Bunny some Pitter Pat's - so that before the years end we could alter the tin for each other.

Karla was really on the ball - cuz she finished hers already, and isn't it just so gorgeous. Hard to believe it once held cat treats.

The inside of the box is just as beautiful. and comes complete with two little fur friends nestled in the bottom. I love it so much.

She also sent me this super cool card of Kittens with beads on top of the whole card.

In the bottom drawer of the box is a tag that says do not open till Halloween - so I await the end of the month with baited breath to see her October ATC's.

Trying to do a post when your not feeling well is certainly an experience -after having to reload my photo's 3 times- due to my clumsy fingers - I am happy to say I've finished for the day and now plan on crawling back into bed.

I will be around to visit everyone later after I rest up a bit.

Hugs,
Penny

Mancat Monday.

2011-10-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

Oh Hi Evfurryone,

I was just headed in to do my post after a wonderful early morning romp outside.

We have been very busy around here lately - but Pellie informs me I'm going to have to keep my post brief since - she and Sir Knight will be heading out to get some much needed shopping done.

Since I like to eat and I know my supply of stinky goodness is really way down -I best not keep them to long.

So From Pellie, Sir Knight and myself -we hope that you have a great Columbus day.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

another cool picture thanks to Dumpr Photo Fun

A few little ATC's

2011-09-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

As you know I just love making these little ATC's ; even when working in such a small format is hard on these old eyes of mine , as well as these old hands.
They are so addicting you just can't do one - so you make sure you have enough partners to swap with.
Karla from Misses Peach's Meowz and Sketchbooks ATC Mail Art and I swap privately between us. For August, Karla really wanted to do a beach scene - me living here in the land locked Midwest not so much - so we compromised and settled on a theme of By the Waters Edge.

The picture above is the card I made. I titled it "Stream Dreams in Sepia". I worked this card mostly digital.. I started with a color picture of a great mountain stream and gathered my extra pieces which I wanted to cut and paste into my scene. Well the colors from all those different sources didn't play well together, so I decided I'd have to switch everything over to Sepia. It worked out - they were more cohesive and worked well together. To give a little extra depth to the picture - the Adirondack chair was carefully cut out and applied with pop dots. as well as one of the clumps of trees. Then I just added some glitter and called it quits.

I really liked the way it turned out and during all that hot humid weather we had this last summer -I was really dreaming of a vacation at such a nice spot. But alas - Sir Knight really didn't have any vacation time to use.

Our September theme was Back to School - which I thought would be fun -and none of the other swap groups were using it.

So here is the card I made. I worked this card both digitally and manually. First I found a cute picture of a classroom in a vintage school book. I digitally manipulated the picture to put the welcome back to school on the black board as well as the teachers name and grade. The bulletin board to the right of the teachers desk was not so easy for me to manipulate digitally so I printed the picture I had cleaned up and manipulated so far as an 8 by 10. Cut out the inside of the bulletin board used a piece of cork Slid in behind the picture, made my divider for my bookworms board and slid my boy and girl characters into the cork.. When every thing was as I wanted it - I scanned the whole thing back into the computer; reduced the size to wallet and printed it out. I mounted it on Black with white polka dot a scrapbook paper, added the ribbon and apple and called it a masterpiece.

I also made this little backpack card - on which I added the earrings I used for my boy and girl characters and sent them off to Karla as well.

At the auction we went to right before I sent out my cards - I found this cute little school girl and had to have her - as she reminded me of pictures I had seen of Karla herself as a little schoolgirl.
So I sent it along as well.

Now I best get back to my Halloween creating or clean up the craft room.

Hugs,
Penny

Puzzled on Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T07:35:00.001-07:00

Photo manipulation software free on Dumpr Photo Fun

Never too early for Halloween

2011-09-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I can not believe it's been two weeks since I last stop by this here blog and visited with all of you.

I really don't have any excuse why I've been gone - just getting lackadaisical in my old age I guess. But then who can blame me - the weather is nice and cool - the leaves are starting to turn and Autumn will soon be here. I love this time of year and I have certainly been enjoying it's inviting reprieve from the scorching heat we had this summer.

I am also a little preoccupied with the class I sign up to take at our local collage. It's an Adobe Photoshop Elements Basic course. My self and one older gentleman are the only seniors in a class full of young mothers - who want to learn Photoshop Elements to enhance their scrapbooking. And those young minds are grasping this stuff a whole lot easier than I am -so I have to work hard on it here at home. Keep practicing and maybe I'll get it down pat.

I wanted to share with you some spooky Halloween ATC's. The Swap for September over at The Altered Paper blog was Halloween - which is sooooooo much fun to create for.

This is the ATC I received from my partner April Cole. Isn't it just the cutest thing. Thank you so much for being such a great partner . -I love my card. Check out April's blog here.

All the items that Mr. Mailman brought from April. So cool. -I know she didn't know this but I am addicted to candy corn; for eating and for decorating. ( Another good reason I love this time of year.)

Here is the card that I made for April. I started with a kind of orangey marble background that was free a the Plush Possum Studio blog - overlayed a rather transparent cemetery scene over it. Added my text and then cut out this cute cat (the original was a flocked cut out that I bought for my first Halloween Party way back in 1960, which I scanned into my computer and shrunk him down to fit on the card.) I then added the little pumpkins and ghost.

So what do you think? I liked it - sure hope April liked it as well.

Here is the card I made to accompany my ATC on it's trip to April's house.

Had a howling good time creating this one.

Now I need to get back to work on my Photoshop Elements homework for the week.

Hugs,
Penny

Shiver me Timbers

2011-09-18T21:25:00.000-07:00

Arggggh Matey,

Captain Ghenghis Khat, aboard the good Ship Catmint on a special Mission of privatering for Her Majesty Good Queen Bess.. In case you didn't know that's pirating that is sanction by the Queen herself - against enemies of the country.

I can't tell you anything about our mission - because - then I'd have to kill you.

The good ship Catmint for you to color.

Meow like a pirate you scurvy dog or I'll make you walk the plank.

Arrgh,
Genghis

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T15:04:00.000-07:00

In Remembrance

2011-09-11T11:54:00.001-07:00

Gypsy Dreams Blog Hop

2011-09-09T19:44:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
Today I am joining in on the Gypsy Dreams Blog Hop, hosted by Gypsy Dreams Blog.

Welcome. Pull up your wagon, join the fun and enjoy.

Deep in the Ancient forest, I wander.
The terra firma, rich beneath my feet,
Emit’s the heady fragrance of clean unpolluted earth,
Enriched only by years of fallen leaves.

A slight chill in the air,
and a few leaves turned to a golden color,
The only sign that fall will soon be upon us;
to offer a vibrant Kaleidoscope of colors.

I stop to rest - a fallen log - my seat.
I ponder my existence -
From where I came &
to where I am going.

Pulled out of my reverie -
by the soulful refrain played on a old violin.
I am surprised to behold a Caravan of Wagons
And people busy in the task of setting up a camp.

A warm fire entices me closer.
Faces show signs of mistrust,
Dark piercing eyes stare
Deep into my soul.

Finally a nod of approval.
We share a kinship, They and & I.
For I am witch.

Since the beginning of time. . .

. . .“Kishani I Romani
Adoi San’ i Chav’ hani.”
“Wherever gypsies go
There the witches are, we know.”

Welcomed to a seat round the campfire,
The violin soon picks up a faster beat.
Women start to spill from the wagons,
dressed in jewel tone hues of red, green & purple.

They dance and twirl like a frenzied leaf
on it’s way to the ground on a windy day
One girl grasp me firmly by the hand
soon I have joined in this twirling and swaying.

My soul has found it’s rhythm,
Buried deep inside me.
I dance till my feet ach,
And my legs refuse to hold me upright.

The moon rides high in the late night sky
We retreat to the warmth and comfort of the wagons.
We talk of the wheel of life
And many other magical things.

As the sun start it’s climb over the horizon.
I know I must head back to the familiar;
To my dear husband, Sir Knight,
as well as Genghis Khat.

Entrusted with some of their knowledge
I bid farewell to my new friends.
Back through the ancient forest,
Home again. Filled with wonderful memories,
And Gypsy Dreams

Thank you all for stopping by.

Hugs,
Penny

Guess what's New at the Art Institute of Chicago,

2011-09-08T11:20:00.001-07:00

"Living up to his namesake, the mighty Genghis Khan, - Genghis Khat has proved himself over and over again to be a strong warrior and a great hunter. His latest conquest immortalized here in oil - is thrilling art lovers across Chicagoland. Plan on making a trip now - to view this wonderful picture."

Hello evfurryone,
Isn't this just the greatest news you've heard today? I am so proud that Pellie and Sir Knight took such a great picture of my war with the moth; and that it was good enough to have done in a larger proportion in a totally different media; all to showcase my great skills. And put it in a museum as well - isn't that just the coolest.

Opps time for me to nap - in case they need me for a press conference later. Ta Ta for now.

Purrs,
Genghis

Hey guys,

Pellie here, just wanted to share this picture- It's kind of the behind the scenes from that days hunt. Looks like he's not quit sure what to do with it now that he caught it.

Oh yeah! Please don't tell Genghis - but I made that picture up at a Free Online Photo Manipulation site. (It's not really at a museum.) But he is so thrilled thinking it is that I hate to tell him otherwise.

Hugs,
Penny

Enjoying some rays on Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

My friend is gone - but will never be forgotten

2011-08-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

Hello Evfurryone,

I just found out some very sad news - my Friend Miss Peach - has gone to the Rainbow Bridge.

Pellie and I haven't been on the computer since my last post - so I am just finding out the sad news, and it has put me in a rather pensive mood.

Pondering Word of Wisdom from people smarter than myself.

While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet her behind the veil.
. . . John Taylor

Dearth leaves a heartache no one can heal; Love leaves a memory no one can steal.
. . . From a headstone in Ireland

With what a deep devotedness of woe
I wept thy absence - o’er and o’er again
Thinking of thee, still thee, till thought grew pain,
And memory like a drop that, night and day,
Falls cold and ceaseless, wore my heart away.
. . .Thomas Moore

Not the least hard thing to bear when they go from us, these quiet friends, is that they carry away with them, so many years of our own lives.
. . . John Galworthy

Thinking about my friend - I will miss you, Miss Peach. Fly free .

Purrs,
Genghis

Prayers and Hugs,
Penny & Sir Knight

Mancat Monday

2011-08-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hello Evfurry one,

All the activity this past weekend wore me out completely. It really can be a tough job snoopervising your humans.

So today I decided to head outside for a little romp around the yard - you know just blow off steam and relax a bit. I caught me a birdie and brought it to show Pellie and all she did was Yell and Scream at me. When I opened my mouth to tell her it was OK, the birdie Fell out and Sir Knight shooed the birdie away and took me in the house. How humiliating is that? So I guess I'll just sit here in my box and sulk.

Purrs,
Genghis

Water Closets and Purses.

2011-08-21T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Sir Knight and I have just finished up - replacing the toilet in our half bath. What a job that was.

We first thought we were going to do an easy fix and just replace the gasket between the tank and the bowl - which would fix our small leaking problem -but you know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and man - Yep when we tried to get the old gasket off - we landed up breaking one of the necessary pipes - so we had to run out to Lowes and get a whole new toilet.

What was nice - was that it came all ready it just needed to be installed - what wasn't nice - was it is a bit taller than our old one and so we had to raise our hanging cabinet - or we'd never be able to get the tank top off.

Isn't that how it always seems to go - one thing always leads to another - till it seems you've darn near replaced or moved everything.

But it is finally done and now it's time for all of us to take things easier for the rest of the evening.

I wanted to show you - some Artful Bag Challenge projects. This months challenge from Frosted Petunias was to make an ATC to swap.

This is the wonderful ATC I received from my partner Linda over at Moments In An Eye. Isn't it just beautiful The colors are so soft and delicate. I love it. Thank you so much Linda. Notice she also sent me a cool selection of extra goodies to use in my project.

This is the ATC I made for Linda. It is the ATC that almost wasn't. It is a very scaled down to size little purse which opens closed and is capable of holding all kinds of little treasures.

My first try however was a real dud when I folded my paper of choice - it showed ugly white creases where the folds were. I had to dig through my stash of card stock paper and find something that I felt would be classy and yet not show those ugly fold creases. I found this paper and while it wasn't"pretty" per say. It did have classic lines , great texture; and as for the brown color well fall is right around the corner. So I felt it would do nicely.

My second attempt was also a dud - but this time the result was an error in judgement on my part - a truly senior moment - when I realized I had put the sticker with all my info on the front rather than the rear of the bag.

The third time was a charm though and I thought it came out simply charming. It even has small bits of Velcro so it can be opened and closed. I put in a small set of keys and of course a penny for luck and prosperity before I sent it on its way.

The time has come for me to join the rest of the family in their Easy mode.

Have a great day.

Hugs,
Penny

Wizard of OZ Blog Hop

2011-08-18T21:36:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Today I'll be joining Two Crazy Crafters in their Wizard of Oz ATC blog hop.

In preparation for this day I surfed the web and searched for free coloring pages I could use to make my favorite characters from. Them I got busy making all these cute ATC's

Being a Midwesterner born and breed I've always known the dangers of Tornadoes. So as a child, when I first saw the movie - it was really kind of scary when the tornado lifted up Dorothy's house and carried it away with Dorothy in it.

So my first ATC is of the tornado:

This picture was a free coloring page from: Cartoon Critters.com

The next pictures I found on a great website and I thought when I printed the pictures out that the page would have the web address on it - so I could link back to it. - However, I was wrong: and after many hours of searching I have never found the website again. If anyone know what site these came from please let me know so I can give them credit for their coloring pages and link back to them.

The Wicked Witch of the West - looking pretty good in this ATC

Dorothy & Toto on the Yellow Brick road and a few quilled Poppies

Glinda the Good Witch from the South

And of course Dorothy's companions along the road to Oz.

Simple Word of Wisdom:

Brain: an apparatus with which we think we think. . . Ambrose Bierce

Where ever you go, go with all your heart. . . Confucius

Courage is simply the willingness to be afraid and act anyway. . . Robert Anthony

Hope you have a great Friday everyone.

Hugs,
Penny

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

Psst. Sir Knight your starting to get a little body rot under here.

Tuesday with Friends

2011-08-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

So glad you were able to drop by and visit.

I first want to thank all of you for you kind comments on my new desk. I think Sir Knight was buoyed up by all the enthusiasm - as I read him each comment - to know his hard work gets noticed - at least once in awhile.

Yesterday I received my ATC from the Lady in a Hat Swap over at The Altered Paper.

My partner was Gail and her blog is "The Artist in Me"

This is the super cute card she made me. Isn't it just the Coolest.

As much as I love dressing up - I do echo that young ladies sentiments - I rather be in Blue Jeans too.

Gail also sent me some very neat extra goodies. Just look at that baggy of different fibers and mostly in colors suitable for fall creating. The other baggie has an assortment of paper empherma. Thank you so much Gail; you are so generous.

Hope all of you have had a great day so far,

See you again soon.

Hugs,

Penny

Mancat Monday

2011-08-15T03:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Evfurryone,

Wow. What a busy Sunday we had around here, I really wore myself out. It's a good thing that today is National Relaxation Day - so I can re -energize my self.

How do you like my nifty new sleeping spot - Pellie carved out for me in her Craft room? I love it. I can stay close to Pellie when she works on all her project - yet I'm not right in her face and glue. And Best of all I can catch a few rays from the sun when I'm there.

So Relax Like You Mean it Today.

Purrs,
Genghis

Taking A Little Break

2011-08-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Wow, It has been one busy day here at my house. I've been busy washing comforters and hanging them on the line; trying to get them ready for the change of season ahead.
Sir Knight canned a few pints of tomato sauce. Our tomatoes are coming in a bit weird this year probably because of all the weird hot humid weather. We have tomato the size of softballs - but they don't ripen very fast.

In between these other jobs we are trying to rearrange my craft room to accommodate my new desk. What new desk you ask? Well you see a couple weeks back; one of those really hot muggy days we were having - we went to our favorite auction. I keep telling Sir Knight that it had to be the heat that made me do it - cuz he no longer believes me when I say the devil made me do it.

I bought this roll top desk for $5.00. What a bargain right? Yea, it was flawed, like the roll top didn't always come down catching on something inside and it's desk top was really really scratched up - but hey it was only $5.00.

Sir Knight was not a happy camper since it fell to him to get this extremely heavy desk home.
But with the help of our youngest grandson -they managed to get it in a borrowed truck and home to our garage..

After many hot hours spent there in his workshop he transformed my ugly duckling into a working beauty.

Of course we have now had to rearrange my craft room to get it in here - but I am just soooo thrilled. I love it.

I am now working hard to fill the drawers and cubbies and get myself organized. (Note I did preface that by saying; trying)

Of course nothing comes or goes from this house that the snooperviser doesn't check out - so here he is. To me his face kind of mimics Sir Knight's, saying: I know it looks nice in here but why did you need another desk?

The Blissful ATC Swap is coming to a close for this month - so since my partner received her card I can show them to you. The theme was food and my partner for this swap was Jennifer over at Altered Spirit and this is the card she made for me. So cute and a great Jane Austin quote as well and all neatly enclosed in an apple pie recipe. Thank you so much Jen. I really love it.

This is the first card I made - I'm a person of rather eclectic taste - and my card kind of reflect my unique point of view. I chose a black & white damask card stock paper as my base (I felt it served as my tablecloth) added a small Campbell's soup label I removed from some play food toys we had from the grands when they were young. I added an image of a grandma caring her soup tereen in vellum. Sort of like a shadow of all the moms and grand moms in the past who served soup. I then added my spoon - also a toy and added the alphabet pasta letters. The letters on the soup puddle I left natural and spelled ATC Swap - the letters on the spoon were applied over glitter glue to give it a wet look I colored with orange marker to look like the tomato broth that is the basis of Vegetable Soup. and spelled food. Then I added a little color to the bowl of the spoon to look like they just set it down -after eating.

I had found some really cute retro - ladies in some of my mom's old cookbooks - that just didn't fit on my first card - So I made a second, which is not exactly food but rather cooking themed.
I did this card digitally and I added it to a pink background to keep that retro feel going.

I thought it came out kind of cute.

I also participated in a swap over at Teresa's Blog: The Altered Paper.
The theme was Lady in a Hat.

This is the card I made.

Using plain white card stock as my base I added tissue paper that had roses printed on it. I added a burgundy background in which I had punched the corners. Then I added my young lady and embellished her hat with feathers and vintage paper flowers.

I thought that one turned out quite lovely.

Well, break times over, and I have to get back to working on this room.

Hugs,
Penny

And the Answer is!

2011-08-13T05:03:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

I'm here while Pellie & Sir Knight get ready to leave me to go Auction Hunting - well at least I got a few friends here and we can practice our 4 part harmony. Yep that was the answer to yesterdays first Mind Stretch Game.

The next answers are as follows - so listen up:
1-C, 2-A, 3-B, 4-E, 5-D

It will be a bit boring while they're gone - but when they come home I always have so many cool things to smell and check out.

Hope you have a great weekend

Purrs,
Genghis

Finally Friday

2011-08-12T05:03:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
I bet you haven't really given it much thought - but did you know that today starts Kool-Aid Days, in Hastings Nebraska. They set up the largest Kool-Aid stand offering at least 12 flavors and celebrate the fact that this kid approved summer drink was invented right there in Hastings in 1927. Hit on this years logo above to learn more about Kool-Aid and how it came to be.

And while your enjoying a time out and a glass of Kool-Aid - I offer you a few Mind stretch games - from the Calender I had with the same name back when I was still teaching.

Easy peasy. Right?

Maybe a little more challenging. Maybe not.

Genghis will post the answers tomorrow - as I'll be out to an auction.

Have a great weekend

Hugs,
Penny

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-10T04:51:00.000-07:00

Hey evfurryone,

I know it's suppose to be wordless Wednesday - but you know me - I do love to talk.

Temporarily - the temperature has fallen - the humidity is gone and all is well in my world.

I might even let my chipmunk friend roam free today if he comes by. But then again . . .?

Purrs,
Genghis

My Friend the Chipmunk / Birthday Goodies

2011-08-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hi evfurryone,

There I was soaking up a few rays of sun and enjoying the cool breeze we have going for us today and then I heard it. Yep Pellie sat down at the computer to do a post today. Hurmp!!!! she never turned the computer on so I could post yesterday -said she had a real bad headache - so I lost my day to post???? I don't think so. I'm just jumping in here right on top of hers.
What I wanted to show you all if I had posted yesterday was this cute little chipmunk who lives in our yard.

It's not a real good picture - because we couldn't get to close or he'd run off. I guess he thought with our grass so dry and brown I wouldn't notice him - but notice him I did.

And in case your wondering - No. I didn't chase him out of the yard. It was too hot and humid that particular day to even chase dreams.

So he was free to live a few more days. Trouble is I haven't seen him at all today and I would have given chase today. Oh Well! Such is life.

Oooopppps. Here comes Pellie. Gotta go. See you tomorrow.

Purrs,
Genghis

**************************

Hello everyone.

Still trying to do a little catch up here. _ "the Hurrier I go the Behinder I get". so I've just been working at this nice and easy like.

So let let me show you all the goodies I got for my Birthday - I sure was spoiled.

Sir Knight bought me some new fine point markers - I can use in creating my ATC's. Lots of colors to choice from now.

He also took me out and wined me and dined me more times than I can remember.

Thanks.

Hugs and Kisses Hunny.
From my Son and his Family I got the original DVD of the Clash of the Titans. I really liked the old version better than the remake - so I really like this. They also bought me a couple bags of Twizzlers (my all time favorite candy) I just didn't take a picture of that.

Thanks so much to all of you. You really know what I like.

From my Niece and her Family; I got this wonderful collection of Fairy and tea cup accessories. I'm planning on turning those two cute books into my art journals for 2012 and will certainly have fun with the other great items.

Thank you guys for everything It fits me to a T.

From my Brother and Sister-in-Law I got some really cool note cards, a glamorous necklace, a cool new photo album - and a collection of the cutest cards around, which incidentally had gift card inside. Whooo Hwoooo. Once it cools down a bit I'm ready to go shopping.

I forgot to include this cute little mouse figurine that was also in the box from my brother. He was so cute - I put him up on display the moment I opened his box.

Thanks for all the cool stuff - you spoiled me beyond measure.

Love you.
From my friend Karla, over at Miss Peach's I got this really beautiful digital art picture she made for me. Isn't it just gorgeous. I love it. In fact I printed it out and am going to frame it and put it in my bedroom.

I'll stop before this gets too long.

Please have a wonderful week.

Hugs,
Penny

PS I see Genghis got in here when I was out hanging clothes and put his post right on top of mine. That little stinker.

This & That

2011-08-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

It's been pretty quiet around - since Genghis headed off to Bora Bora yesterday - so I spent most of the day today busy in the craft room.

Around 7:30pm when Sir Knight Headed out to water the garden look who he spotted. He never even made it inside - sound asleep on the chair on the front porch. When disturbed he said that he only came back to check if we missed him yet; and he was going right back - but he was still snoozing out there an hour later at 8:30pm. I guess he has been partying real hard and needed to rest up a bit before going back. As I write this post he is no longer on the chair - so I guess he's on his way back to Sun, Sand, Nip and Friends.

With the Start of a new month it was time to pick a new self-care card for myself. This month I chose ACTION. The words of wisdom on the back says..."Take Action. The journey to find your lost self begins with one step."

Look at this great picture I got for $2.00 at the Auction last Saturday. It's called Wedded to Science and was a giveaway from Merille Pharmaceuticals. I know it looks kind of dark and macabre - which is probably why it was so poorly taken care of. But I'm hoping to get it cleaned up and re-framed to put in our Library by the end of this weekend.

Yesterday I received these ATC cards from Miss Peaces Mom, Karla; as we did our own private Circus Swap. As you can see she used part of an Animal Crackers box to hold the ATC's. Now isn't that just the cleverest idea. I Love it.

These are the cards all tied up in a pretty bow. The top card says "Life Is A Three Ring Circus"
and has a great picture of Emmet Kelly.

When you get it all untied each card is mounted together like a book and has copies of many wonderful old circus poster. So Neat.

Here is one of the cards I made for Karla - Of course there has to be clowns and this happy group is all crammed together in one wagon. If you look carefully - you'll notice Sir Knight in two of his Persona flanking Pellie on both sides and even Genghis had to get into the act. I included a couple of my instructors from Clown Camp as well as some art work clowns - to round out this Merry Crew.

Although you will rarely find me doing duplicates - I was so taken with this cute little elephant coloring page - that I colored him up for a second time with different accent colors and like the first time I titled it Elephun.

In this card the mighty King of Beast is awaiting his time to perform - stuck in a cage wagon.
While it may be a cage at least I made it roomy and real snazzy looking. His bars are white glitter paper.

And of course One final shot of all three cards together.

Well I'm having trouble keeping my eyes open - so I guess I best go wash the glue and glitter off of my hands and get ready for bed.

Sir Knight will have us up bright and early to check out another auction tomorrow.

Hugs,
Penny

Heading Off For a Day of Fun in the Sun

2011-08-04T04:23:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurry one,

My friends over at Jans Funny Farm told me everybody was heading down to Bora Bora - for a day of Fun in the sun - since Gracie is having an open house today. So I thought to myself, what the heck Pellie hasn't been very good about letting me post or visit lately - soooooooo I might as well just go have fun and visit with everyone in person and maybe even make a few new friends or two.

Excuse while i find our hostess so I can thank her and find out what kind of accommodations she procured for everyone.

Oh there she is.

Hey Gracie -I'm pleased to make your acquaintance - this is such a cool idea. What have you got planned for the day or are we mostly just gonna be chillin'?

Yep. Nope. Yep COOL.

That's great. Ok, I'll catch you later - when I'm settled in.

This is my digs for today - I'm way out on the water - but I don't mind I'm young and have strong legs so I don't mind the long walk to and from the beach.

Check this out!!!
Who's afraid of water? Not me.

The Island is great - come join us.

Purrs,
Genghis

Trying to stay cool.

2011-07-27T04:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you and New Art

2011-07-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

I want to thank all of you who were so kind as to take time out from your busy days - to stop by and wish me a Happy Birthday. I am thrilled and Honored - for you are truly Friends of the Heart. Once again thank you so much for making my day so special.

A couple posts ago I showed you the cards I made for the the Blissful ATC swap for July. My partners cards arrived on my birthday so I thought I'd share them with you today. My Partner was Victoria and besides being a dabbler in the art of ATC's, like me - she is the human mom to an Aussie Shepard named Bear. (I think I got the breed right). Thus her blog is named - Things I Learn From Bear.

In case you don't remember - the theme was Circus and as you can see below she had a ticket for both of us. (The circus is always better when you go with a friend.)

The clowns made me laugh and giggle.

Ahh! the elephant is so graceful for such a large animal.

Lions and tigers and Bears - oh no - at least lions and giraffes (the scary and the cute).

And here they are all together with the extra cute note she sent me.

Thank you so much Victoria they are just too cute - I love them. Thanks for being such a great swap partner.

Well time is moving and I'm not - so I best say good-bye for now.

Hugs,
Penny

Happy Birthday Pellie.

2011-07-24T19:32:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

I'm giving up my Mancat Monday to wish my mom Pellie a very Happy Birthday and Many more to come.

Purrs,
Genghis

Hugs,
Sir Knight

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-20T07:22:00.000-07:00

Temperature outside is 95 degrees and rising

Humidity is 85%

I'm just gonna snooze the day away.

Oh yeah; Pellie said to tell you it National Lollipop Day today.

Purrs,
Genghis

The Circus is Here

2011-07-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

It's that time of the month - for sending out and receiving ATC's for the members of the Blissful ATC Swap hosted by Wendy.

The Theme for this month was the Circus and the special little twist was that we were to create not one but three cards. The inspiration for that would be three ring Circus I guess. So to try and keep things in the three ring idea - I wanted to make sure all my cards featured different aspects of the circus.

So with out further ado...

Ladies and Gentlemen and Children of all ages

May I call your attention to the ringmaster there in the center ring..

Mister Ringmaster is a right debonair fellow with his cane and top hat and he started life as a coloring page on a kids coloring site. I colored him in using colored pencils and then printed him twice in wallet size on regular paper. The color wasn't as good as I hoped so I recolored him with my fine point markers and liked that much better. I used a striped scrapbook paper for my background and added a 3-D sticker of the Big Top. So my Ringmaster wouldn't be crooked standing where he was I removed have of the 3-D effect on the tent and added my first Ringmaster; I then added the second which was just a titch smaller than the first - I don't know why that was - I must have set something different when setting the printer or my printer must have messed up a bit when it sized it. But I thought he looked cute any way. I added two puffy star embellishments and felt he was good to go.

This Elephant was also from a free online coloring site. I colored him with my colored pencils and was pretty content with the color when I reduced him and printed him out business card size.
I used the same background paper and cut out the stool he steps on from some pretty scraps of paper I had left from another project. I used a sticker of a circus dog and placed him riding on the elephants back and each doing their own trick. And this time I got my 3-D effect to work out just right. Yeah!!!!!
I called it Elephun - because I think the elephants are a fun and gentle giant.

Being Sir Knight and I are clowns - I couldn't do the circus without doing my tribute to the fun guys of the Circus. Clown Alee. Yeah!!!!!!

For this card I applied a vellum overlay with one of my favorite song I learned at clown camp "I Wanna Be a Clown"; music and words by my instructor Christine E. Montrose. Then I gather up a few lovely clown faces and applied them to my same background and they made me laugh and giggle right away - so I knew they were just the right mix of characters.

Here is how it looks when you lift the vellum overlay. Aren't they just too cute for words.

And here we have one final glimpse at all three rings.

I know my posts have been kind of on again - off again all this summer - but we have been busy doing a bit of remodeling and I have been deeply engrossed in all the changes going on and have kept myself busy piddling around on that. Plus since this is my birthday month Sir Knight has been taking out and about to do many different places.

One such place was we went this past Sunday to go see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 2. Boy did I enjoy that. Where part 1 was a bit on the slow side while it tried to establish the mood and feelings for the final battle. Part two was exciting and full of action. No the movie was not great at following the book - but they did a better job then some books made into movies I've seen. To me it's just watching an alternative choice every now and then - so I don't mind.
But the book and my imagination - is far batter than the movie ever will be.

UMMM I see a little job I need to get busy on if ever this remodel is to be completed - so I best bring this to an end.

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs,
Penny

Mancat Monday

2011-07-11T06:19:00.001-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

Shhhhhhhhhhsh; Please. - Be very, very quiet. I'm busy hunting alligators at the moment.

Did you hear that??? Was that the sound of a big reptile slithering across the grass?

What's that you say? There isn't any alligators to hunt here in Illinois. What a bummer! I was so looking forward to catching one of those bad boys.

Oh well - I guess I'll just lay here and see if a mousie comes by.

Purrs,
Genghis

What's Black and White and cute as a sows ear?

2011-07-08T05:54:00.000-07:00

Hello again everyone,

I just finished my bag for the artful Bag Challenge over at Frosted Petunia's and of course I had to share it with you.

I started with this very plain black bag that I found in the bottom of a box of misc stuff I bought at an auction. (Please discount the fact that I had already started to decorate the bag before I realized I needed a before picture)

I stared at it along time and I really saw no potential in it at all. Poor Bag! Don't fret, I won't give up on you. Just don't give up on me yet either.

In that same box of stuff were a large pile of lacy curtain tie backs. Hmmmm, what can I do? What can I do?

Yipee!!! My ah ha moment came to me. and I got busy sewing and gluing.

And here (Drum roll please) is what I finally came up with........

I glued a large shank button to the top of the clasp ( shank removed of course) , glued a piece of the lace tieback to the front and then sewed up two large yo-yo flowers and one small yo-yo flower. Added vintage buttons to the centers of my yo-yos. Sewed the small yo-yo to a bow made from a small scrap of vintage ribbon I had in my stash and then securely glued everything to the front.

It looked pretty but not quiet finished - so I looked around and found the butterfly sticker -who's color combination worked perfect with it and added that,

I think it turned out kind of cute.

Got to run -I have plenty more creating to do and time is running out.

Hugs,
Penny

The Catch-up Continues

2011-07-07T05:16:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Well I made it back and am continuing to fill you in all that happened while I was missing from Blogland.
First I want to share my self-care card of the month with you. My goal this month is Playfulness. The implied wisdom - connect with your inner child - get down on the floor and play.

Sir Knight and I still love to get down and play, whether it's building things from blocks , playing a board game or working a puzzle - the floor is just a little harder to get to as we get older and id definitely harder to get up from once we get down there.

It's the connecting with the inner child that will be the hard part - as I am afraid she was silenced many, many years ago by very stern parenting and I have never been brave enough to bring her out - too afraid of what she will say and do and more importantly how I will feel on seeing her again, after all these years.

Anyhow - (Awkward Pause) - Moving on. Lets get to looking at some more pretty art.

Here are the cards I got from Karla, Miss Peach's mom, for out private swap. I just love the card she made to send them in. Reminiscent of a slower time that was filled with awe and wonder.

Here is a close up of her Steampunk card. Isn't it beautiful?

I told you we shared an affinity for pretty.

Steampunk card opened up revealing all its little secrets and treasures.
She even personalized it with my name. I Just Love it.

Here is the wedding card she made me. Oh my it is so delicate. You probably can't see very well but she has the sheerest piece of ribbon over the card - with a beautiful bride stamped on it. Oh and by the way the butterfly is silver not shades of burgundy - it picked up the reflection from the camera - when it's ready to take the picture.. It's better in real life - a picture just can't do it the right kind of justice.

This is a little box I made for Karla to Keep her ATC's in. It's humble beginning was a small cigar which Sir Knight sanded all the offending cigar information off of and then made a divider for the inside. I them painted it an off white and quilled a Garden Medley of flowers for the top.

I love quilling as an art form - to me it is so restful and looks so pretty when it's done.

This is the inside of the box, of course. I put pink marble wallpaper up on the top and light pink felt in the bottom with pink ribbons to help lift the card from the box; because it is a bit of a tight fit and it would be a shame if a card got damaged trying to get it back out of the box. On the end of the ribbons I sewed little charms - one is a kitty and the other a computer. (I thought that was only fitting as it was those two things that we share and they helped to bring us together.)

Well I best quit before I get to long winded again.

Hugs to all,
Penny

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-06T06:36:00.000-07:00

Catching Up on the News

2011-07-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Well the big holiday celebrations are behind us and I have lots of catching up to do.

So many things were going on in June, some good, some bad, and some terribly comical (at least in retrospect they were comical - maybe not when they happened). I was overwhelmed, blown away, and just not able to sit down very often to post.

How much news can i put into one post- well lets just start and see how it goes.

June started pleasant enough. I was busy working in the yard and around the house doing small little remodels. Then Murphy's Law squared kicked in and it was down hill from there on.

We woke up one morning and the coffee maker just stopped working - What! no morning coffee - argggh that makes me angry. I need my first cup of coffee. As soon as Sir Knight was home from work it was off to the store to get a new coffee maker.

I know your sitting there thinking that wasn’t so bad - but wait.

The next day while Sir Knight is at work the flusher thingy for the toilet breaks - so to flush the toilet I had to lift the tank lid and do it manually - another trip to the store as soon as Sir Knight was home from work. Ick.

With that repaired, we had hoped life would return to normal - but noooooo. Two days later the inside of the bathroom sinks faucet just fell apart shooting water all over the place - and now Sir Knight had to be called home from work - because we had no shut offs for the sink without shutting down the whole house. So another trip to town and plenty of parts later our sink was now back in working order and has water shut off right there on the lines to the sink. YEAH!!!!

And if all that hadn’t been bad enough - I, in my klutziness fell down the basement stairs on Father’s Day, 15 minutes before we were due to go to one of our favorite Renaissance Fairs. I ascertained that the extra padding I have - protected my bones and nothing was broken - just a bad sprain in my left leg. I refused to give up our day at the Fair - so I hobbled around on it - oh man that hurt and was probably a big mistake - because that leg swelled up the size of a tree trunk and had me almost in tears for well over a week. Then it started bruising on the front and back. I have therefore been in bed or in a recliner with the leg elevated rather than here at my computer desk. I still have some pain - the bruises are more yellowish than purple - but I am feeling much better than I did.

While I was convalescing - Sir Knight was busy building me a few new accessories for my craft room - but it’s not ready to show you yet; so we will save all that discussion & problems for another post.

While laid up I did a bit of reading and crafting - You know me - I couldn’t survive if I wasn't creating some thing.

Miss Peach's mom Karla and I agreed to do some private swapping of ATC cards.

We would be doing a wedding theme to go along with the swap over at Blissful ATC Swap . We also agreed to do a Steampunk card for each other.

Well this time I decided I need to really understand what the heck Steampunk really was and bought this book

My library looked at me as if I was a freak of some kind when I asked if they could get a copy for me - I guess no one out here in the rural Midwest is even the slight bit interested in things Steampunk - as none of the surrounding libraries had it listed in their library either).

I learned lots while reading this book - and according to the author, to be true Steampunk even the art was suppose to have a steam engine somewhere in it.

So I created this card and titled it Pellie’s Palatial Steam Propelled Carriage. - Sir Knight really liked it but I figured it would never do, to send to Karla - because like me she is more into the pretty side of art.

So I made this next card and liked it much better - Sir Knight calls it soft Steampunk. I call it Pretty Steampunk. The young lady has her goggles on a dirigible flies high in the sky and is also reflected in her goggles. Her feline companion wear a right smart looking top hat and the card has cool gears on it. Yep that’s more my idea of Steampunk.

Then it was on to the Wedding theme. Here is the card I made for Karla . I titled it: From This Day Forward. The bride and groom in this ATC are from a picture I bought in the 70’s when I was married the first time. I was going to make a plaque commemorating our big day - but never seemed to have time - then the marriage fell apart - so I saved it hoping I’d find a use for it some day - because I absolutely loved it.

Doesn't the bride and groom look sweet and romantic? I just love them on this card.

Here is the card I made for Wendy at Bliss Ange ls, my partner in the Blissful ATC Swap and I titled it: Pansy Wedding Thoughts. As you can tell even though parts are digitally altered - I had to get in and play with a bit of paper and made up some pansies. I used pansies since the marriage certificate I used in the background had pansies on it.

The card I made to send my ATC in.

Look at the goodies Wendy sent me. The sweet fairy card went right up on my inspiration board - so I can look at her often.
Here is the card I got from Wendy. Is it not one of the most beautiful creations you’ve seen. I just love it.
Thank you so much Wendy - you are a super swap partner.

I figured I was on a roll so I decided it was time I made Angela over at Sew Loquacious a replacement card for the card I made in Dec. for her that had the rub on letters rubbing off even before it left my house - that theme was angels - so here is what I made for her. I was happy to send this one out and felt it better represented my skills and abilities.

May Angels Watch Over You

At the end of the month of May I was also in a swap over at Treasure Barn where the theme was hats - and guess what - I was in such a hurry to get my cards out - I forgot to take a picture of the two cards I made for my partner.

But here is a picture of the card she sent me. Really nice work - Love it Tiffine. Thank you so much.

Well this has indeed grown quite long so I will stop for now and pick up again on Thursday.

Hugs,
Penny

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T05:05:00.000-07:00

Hello my friends,

Genghis and I send you Hugs and Purrs. - Hoping you are are a great long holiday weekend.

Whether you are spending today at the beach -

Or boating down a mountain stream -
Or having a little fireworks display in your own back yard. -

Have a good time - but stay safe.

Hugs
Penny & Sir Knight

Purrs,
Genghis

July has arrived

2011-07-01T02:16:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Today as a way of getting a jump start on the 4th Holiday weekend; I am participating in the Patriotic ATC Blog Hop over at Two Crazy Crafters. Come join us.

I titled this ATC I made - Land That I Love.

I hope you all have a great holiday weekend. Stay safe.

Hugs,
Penny

International Box Day

2011-06-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hey Evfurryone,

Pellie just told me - that here in the Blogosphere - It International Box Day.

What??????

How fun is that?

And I was clueless - so I just had to jump on the computer and post some of my favorite box pictures, before the day was over.

A few boxes I have loved and lost.

Purrs,
Genghis

International Fairy Day

2011-06-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Since it's Fairy Day - I've been busy in the yard - helping the Fairies have a good time - got to celebrate you know.

Hope everyone has a great weekend planned.

Hugs,
Penny

Summer Has Arrived

2011-06-21T08:06:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,

Summer officially arrived today since today marks the Summer Solstice.

“A major celestial event, the Summer Solstice results in the longest day and the shortest night of the year. The Northern Hemisphere celebrates in June, but the people on the Southern half of the earth have their longest summer day in December.

Awed by the great power of the sun, civilizations have for centuries celebrated the first day of summer otherwise known as the Summer Solstice, Midsummer, St Johns Day or the Wiccan Litha."

I’m hoping that this Summer is much more pleasant than this Spring has been; for with all the ups and downs in temperature and the wild barometric pressures- my Fibromyalgia has really been acting up.

Today is also Baby Boomer Appreciation Day and since I am a Boomer I am definitely going to tip my Long Island Ice Tea in Celebration. Well it's still too early for that much celebrating so I guess it will just be a nice cold glass of my sun tea without the added spirits.

Both Genghis and I hope to get back to our routine of blogging soon - but this June has pretty much been the month from hell around here.

Talk to you soon.

Hugs,
Penny

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T06:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Here it is Father's day - the day set aside to honor all fathers - The Good, The Bad, The Ugly - the tall, the small and all those in between.

My own Dad has been departed from this earth for 21 years now - having passed away a few days before his 75th birthday and although time has moved on and we all have adjusted to our loss - it is days like this that remind us of our losses.

Here is a picture of my happy Little Family taken in 1950 -

I'm the cute little butterball in my mom's arm
(in case your wondering).

Here is a rare picture of Dad and I taken in 1960.

Dad was the one who was usually behind the camera -taking all the picture; so it is very rare to find a picture with him in it.

Happy Father's Day to all the father's out there in blog land.

Hugs,
Penny

Memorial Day Greetings

2011-05-30T07:15:00.000-07:00

Some Gave All

Billy Ray Cyrus

I knew a man called him Sandy Kane
Few folks even knew his name
But a hero was he
Left a boy, came back a man
Still many just don't understand
About the reasons we are free

I can't forget the look in his eyes
Or the tears he cries
As he said these words to me

All gave some and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

Now Sandy Kane is no longer here
But his words are oh so clear
As they echo through out our land
For all his friends who gave us all
Who stood the ground and took the fall
To help their fellow man

Love your country and live with pride
And don't forget those who died America can't you see

All gave some and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall, yes recall
Some gave all

Some gave all

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-25T07:24:00.003-07:00

Glad to still be here.

2011-05-24T05:46:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

Well Sat. 6:00 pm - came and went - and the dreaded Doomsday prediction never came true - and I for one was happy to still have time to play upon this good old earth.

Late Sunday things here in the Midwest got a little scary with high winds, bad thunderstorms, and depending where you lived even a tornado or two.

We had some golf ball sized hail and lots of rain - but faired pretty well in spite of the high winds. (No trees fell down this time. Yeah!!!!!!!)

When the severe weather sirens went off - we of course shut down all the computers and other electrical stuff and headed down into the basement - or should I say that Pellie and Sir Knight came down to my apartment. Which was kind of nice, except for the fact that they decided they needed to do some furniture rearranging and stuff to make it more comfortable for them - when they come down to visit.

So yesterday in the light of day and as a way to avoid the hot sticky weather outside - they spent almost the whole day changing things around on me.

It's a good thing - I don't mind change. Actually they did a good job and even cleaned up a lot of stuff that just got brought down and never put away - so now I have more room to roam around.

So what did I do Yesterday you ask?

Well of course I had to snoopervise - but for the most part I just played in my cube. At least till they sat down and took a break - then I'd climb up in a lap and demand to be cuddled and pet.

Have no idea what we have planned for today - I guess I'll just have to play it by ear.

Hope your day is wonderful.

Purrs,

Genghis

Confession is Good for the Soul.

2011-05-20T22:21:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,

Will the world end Tomorrow?

According to Preacher Harold Camping from Oakland California - Jesus will arrive for his second coming tomorrow at 6pm ( Umm Harold is that Pacific time or Eastern Standard? Just wondering!!! )

He maintains that 2% of the worlds population will then be raptured into heaven and the rest will be immediately be sent to the other place.

Now I’m a reasonably good Christian and not one to scoff at the idea of Armageddon - but - just how can he be sure of his facts and his dates. People have been waiting for the coming of the Kingdom of God for some time now. And besides according to the Mayan calendar -Life as we know it - doesn’t end till Dec 21, 2012.

I mean who is right and who is wrong?

No Matter - I figure I better - play it safe and come clean about all my foibles and quirks now - just in case.

I Penelope Plum am an addict - Yes, you heard me right - I am an Addict -

I am addicted to rummaging through other people trash and I don’t care if it’s literally on the curbside during clean up week; or at auctions, estate sales and/or at garage sales. I’m there ready and willing to pick through stuff in order to find that one perfect piece that I just wont be able to live without.

And here is the proof. - This picture show just a hint of the goodies I couldn’t live without this week alone.

I’d tell you that all of this wasn’t for me -but I’d be fibbing if I did that - so I will not tell a lie.

(Especially with the possibility of Judgement Day being so close.)

Do I need all this stuff - well probably not - but I just had to have it. And the price was to good to pass up.

I am no hoarder (although I do have the packrat gene in my DNA strand) - I probably won’t keep everything forever. I’ll happily use some of the items till - I tire of them - then I will either donate what’s left or recycle at a garage sale of my own. But till then it’s all mine. Yipee!

I am also addicted to playing with paper in my craft room/studio/shed. I have been known to disappear in there for hours on end. What’s worse is I have even ignored my need to forage for food just so I could stay elbow deep in glue and paper. (I know ! - - - How strange is that?)

This months Artful Bag Challenge theme was playing with paper. So I wanted to make sure I showed you my cute little spring into summer style paper purse. Yep, even the purse handle is paper. And I was happy as a pig in mud as I worked on this little beauty.

I also am addicted to buying fabric. Even though I am only minimally proficient in my sewing skill, I could wander about in a fabric store for hours and if left unchecked come home with literally tons of fabric - just because I thought they were pretty.

But my biggest addiction which feeds all these other addictions is that I am a Hopeless Romantic who is addicted to Pretty. I love ribbon’s, lace, pink, aquamarine, roses and all things feminine and pretty.

That’s my pre judgment day confession and if by chance we are all still here tomorrow - I’ll probably celebrate by going fabric shopping, since there isn’t an auction this weekend.

Hugs,

Penny

Sticky Note Tuesday

2011-05-17T15:18:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,

Wow It seems funny to be posting again. - I know its only been a week or so since I last posted - but it must have been a real long week.

Anyway - today is Sticky Note Tuesday and since this particular sticky note is about art - I thought it was a great way to share this months ATC Swap items.

The theme for this month was Lets Go to the Movies. And boy that was kind of a tough one - I had so many good movies I wanted to make an ATC about - but which one should I do?

This is the ATC I received from my swap partner Shelly over at Stamping Out SAD. How cool is this? - Sir Knight and I love the Harry Potter Books and Movies. When I ripped open the envelope and saw those three familiar faces I started doing the happy dance and jumping up and down; of course Sir Knight had to come in the room and check on me to make sure I was OK. He saw the card and was impressed. (Of all the cards I've received since I've been swapping this is the first one he want to make a frame for.)

Now here is the cool part - Shelly engineered the card so that when you pulled on the clip -

Only Harry and his monogram shows - along with the words written on the school wall from the Movie "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" That is just so cool.

Shelly also blessed me with two of the most beautiful cards I've seen . Thank you so much Shelly. You made my heart and body jump with joy.

This is the Card I made for Shelly - I started by browsing the web looking for a picture of a Movie Theater with some character. I found this one (which happens to be for sale, if anyone is interested.) I Photoshopped out the for sale information in the Marque and added my Theme words, Let's Go to the Movies. I sized it to fit the required ATC size and printed it out. Applied it to my ATC card and then cut it down the Middle. On the backside of each of those halves I applied some scrapbook paper that to me looked like old fashioned wallpaper. Then I put Movie Posters from my all time favorite movie - Gone with the Wind - one from it's 1939 and 1961 releases.

From one of my digital scrap booking programs I found the theater interior and the film strip.I combined the two together - sized it to business card size - as that was the closest size that particular program had. Scanned in the pictures of my cast and sized them down to fit within the film frames. added my theater insides, to another ATC card covered with the same scrap book paper, to once again look like vintage wallpaper and added the two tickets one for Shelly and one for me. I linked the three pieces together with some gold O rings.

I think it turned out kind of cool.

Hope everyone is having a great week.

Hugs,

Penny

Mancat Monday - Chilling

2011-05-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

Wow It's Monday again already. What happen to last week?

We worked out in the yard everyday last week and I had such a good time playing and snoopervising all the work that was getting done.

We Missed, the Great Blogger Meltdown - and I guess we should be glad we did.

Then came the weekend and our working out in the yard was gravely curtailed. We went from a nice and sunny 93 degrees - to rainy and chilly 63 degrees.

So we worked inside - on some of Pellie's crafty type projects. As long as I stayed in my box - Pellie didn't yell about me being on the table - but just let me step a paw or two out of the box and I was in deep doodoo.

Agh! I'm tired of sitting here watching her cut things out. -

Got to go. Bye.

Hope you all have a great week.

Purrs,

Genghis

Mancat Monday

2011-05-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

Hi evfurryone,

Here in my domain we worked through most of another weekend. Sir Knight and one of our grand beans got the garden all turned over and added plenty of stinky horse manure. On Wednesday Pellie and Sir Knight will go get our vegetable plants and figure the garden will be ready for them to plant them right away.

Of course I was busy outside snoopervising -each and every project. Whew!!! That was hard work - believe me.

They also worked on cleaning out the big shed. - they had to drag every thing out - clean all the mold and gunk that for some reason grew all over the walls and then put all the stuff back. They rearranged everything when they put it all back - so it looks like we got lots more room.

( I know it's not my place to say- but I wonder how long it will last all nice and clean and tidy like this)

All that time outside - sure made me sleepy - and I think I need a couple extra naps to catch up on all the naps I missed over the weekend.

Purrs,

Genghis

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-07T23:52:00.000-07:00

My Mom as a young woman

My Family and I

A Mother's Love

Her Love knows how to mend a heart

And how to darn a hurt.

How to paint the flower of praise

For the spirit's dullest days.

Her love cooks up a dozen ways

To help you. If your wise,

You'll run to her with tattered dreams

Which she will patch with fancy seams.

All mothers in their daily schemes

Love's cream forever skim

To feed the happiness of one

They smile upon with their heart's sun.

. . .Lucile Coleman

My Son and I

I hope each and everyone has a very Happy Mother's Day.

Hugs,

Penny

Thoughtful Thursday

2011-05-05T16:06:00.000-07:00

"The question is not what you look at,

But what you see" . . . Henry David Thoreau

Hello Everyone,

I know that more than half the day is gone and it really is kind of late to post - but I felt a real need to post anyway. Not that what I have to say is all that important - It's just that Genghis has been such a good boy to keep posting when I unfortunately was super stressed and trying to make my granddaughters George Washington costume.

Thanks Genghis you rock.

Here it is May already (May, the Merry Month of May) and I am glad to see it arrive.

On the first I picked my self-care card that I will concentrate on for the month - and this months card is Nature. The wisdom on the back of the card - says - Take a Walk. Let the beauty of nature feed your soul.

Even though it was still a bit chilly here and the sky threatened rain - I pulled on my sweatshirt and headed out. A winter of limited activity is always hard on me and my Fibromyalgia; so while my walk was not long it was a start.

Today just a block or two - with plans to increase the distance as the days go on.

When I returned home - I got busy working on this years yard clean up. Last year Sir Knight and I kind of took a back seat to yard work - and while the house didn't look that bad - it isn't looking all that good.

During those cold winter months we drew up some cursory plans for changes we need to make to improve the curb appeal. We already have started with the removal of a few eye sores. Filling in the grass with dirt , planting some grass seed patch, and cleaning out all the leaves and trash that blows around the city; from under the bushes. Little baby steps - but it is starting to look better already. I'm hopping to have the front of the house in better shape by the end of day tomorrow.

"Everything is the product of one universal creative effort. There is nothing dead in nature"

. . . Seneca

Look what I received in the mail last week - another great ATC from my partner in the Blissful ATC Swap from April. Isn't that just the greatest card? I felt so special to receive not just the one necessary swap card - but an additional one - under separate cover. Thank you so much rose. It's awesome and I am touched by your generosity.

The Artsy Bag Challenge Card - is another story - Neither my partner or I have received our cards yet and we both mailed early. I never knew it would take nearly a month for mail to get around Australia. I know it will be great when it gets here - but I am an impatient soul.

Maybe the postman got eaten by a Croc or beaten up by a Kangaroo. :@

Heavens!

A couple of you expressed a desire to see the finished costume. So here is the pattern I used. See George hiding near the back.

Well I used material that I already had on hand - from auction purchases - to keep the cost down.

I love my granddaughter - but her mother knows nothing about taking care of things - so this will be a one time use item and probably be thrown in the trash afterward. But I digress.

Here is the whole outfit - The coat has split tails and does go down to past her knees. The pockets are fake and I didn't have real military style buttons - so again we used what we had.

The sleeves really gave me a run for my money so to speak - as I have never made anything in which I has to set in sleeves. All the Renaissance outfits I made for the grandsons; were sleeveless Jerkins (vest) with sleeves that where separate and tied on to the jerkin. There are a few boo-boo's that kind of puckered the sleeve fabric - but as time was running out and I felt it would just have to do.

This is a separate shot of the vest - The vest is a faux vest - made to tie on - kind of like some of the tuxedo type vests and was the easiest thing tho sew up. The dickey and collar that is sewn on to the vest - was the hardest for me to master. The dickey had a rounded neckline and the collar was straight - so I sewed and ripped out many times - before I took a ride to the local quilt shop and got some advise. You need to cut many little groves in the round neck of the dickey and spread it out flat to sew it on the collar. (If they want it flat why not just draw it flat in the pattern????)

For the britches - I played it smart and just bought a pair of jeans - cut them down and added a collar of fabric around the knee. (Not Mentioned anywhere in McCalls - but so much easier for me.)

We delivered the outfit yesterday and today was her class presentation. Don't know if her mom will remember to take a picture of her for us or not.

After sewing this outfit - all the yard work looks so easy peasy.

Hugs,

Penny

"One touch of nature makes the whole world kin". . . William Shakesepeare

"In the beauty of nature, lies the spirit of hope" . . . unknown

Fickle on Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-04T10:02:00.001-07:00

On the inside - wanting out

On the outside wanting in

Purrs,

Genghis

Mancat Monday

2011-05-02T07:18:00.000-07:00

Oh! hello Evfurryone,

I was just sitting here thinking about my life.

Pellie took time out from her sewing project and Her & Sir Knight worked on beautifying the front yard for darn near six hours. They are giving the whole front of the house a face lift - so they where removing stuff that was getting old and falling apart and planting a few new things in pots.

Of course I had to snoopervise everything - but I did manage to play and have fun too.

Today Pellie is back to her sewing and Sir Knight will probably be busy in the garage - working on a few of his many projects - so I get to rest a bit and take life easy today. So like I said earlier I was thinking about life when I get older. Pellie bought me this magnet when she was out shopping someplace and I thought it had some cool ideas on aging.

If you cant read it - It says:

When I Am An Old Cat

When I Am An Old Cat I shall wear
a diamond collar and leave my footprints
on white couches; I shall drink my cream with
a touch of brandy and spit out my vitamins;
I shall sit on the laps of dog people
just to irritate them; I shall nap on top of the
neighbor's petunias and perch on top of
birdbaths and grow charmingly chubby.

But for now I must tolerate the dog
and use my litter box and not sharpen
my claws on the sofa, so no one can doubt
the truth that cats are superior to dogs.

But every once in a while I wonder
if I should be naughty now and then
and nip a few toes, so my humans
won't be too shocked when suddenly
I become an old cat and
start to wear a diamond collar.

Well I need to go out and check my domain - so I guess I better say goodbye for now.

See You Wednesday.

Purrs,

Genghis

I'm howling Mad

2011-04-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

Man am I angry - Pellie never even turned the computer on Monday so I could post - yesterday she did her own post (and I was ok with that) - but today she went and infringes on my day to post.

Today should have been my Wordless Wednesday. (Even if it wouldn't have been entirely wordless - every cat should have his day to post.)

I have such cute pictures of the Easter Bunnies that cam to visit us on the Saturday before Easter.

Remember I told you our grass was getting pretty high and Sir Knight really needed to get out and mow. Well with all the rain we have been having that was kind of hard for him to do. So on the Sat before Easter we all went out to work - between the rain drops.

Look at these guys - aren't they cute - The Loud noisy thing that Sir Knight rides on to mow the grass - scared them out of their little nest.

Now I want you to know I went and checked each one of them out and didn't hiss, snarl or strike at any of them. I thought I was being a very good little cat - for not hunting them down. Don't you agree?

There, now I feel a lot better - I got to share my story.

Purrs,

Genghis

Happy Administrative Professionals Day

2011-04-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

Here is the link to this clip art secretary on phone clip art 2

Hello Everyone,

Happy Administrative Assistants Day/ Secretary's Day to one and all.

Hugs,

Penny

Sticky note Tuesday

2011-04-26T06:23:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I hope everyone had a very good Easter and enjoyed all your blessing.

I enjoyed mine until I was informed by my youngest granddaughter that she needed me to make a George Washington costume for her and I only have a week to get it done. EAKKK!!!!

Needles to say that the computer didn't even get turned on yesterday (much to Genghis's dismay) as Sir Knight and I had to do some running around - one stop in particular being of great importance - a trip to the fabric store for a pattern , fabric, thread and extra needles.

My sewing skills are limited - and I usually require more time - to get things done - so I am feeling really stressed out at the moment.

We are hopeful that we will have time to visit with all of you even if our posting may be little or non-existent. Please bear with me.

Hugs,

Penny

Easter Wishes

2011-04-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

Bells of Easter

by Esther Cushman Randall

Can you hear the Easter bells

Ringing clear and true

Climbing notes of hope and faith

Deep in the heart of you?

Can you hear His still, small voice

Where lilies sway and nod

Keeping time to Easter bells

Ringing in the sod?

On this, His resurrection day

The bells sound everywhere...

In meadow, vale and hill-side,

In springtimes filtered air.

We hear them in a bird's gold throat;

A baby's eager cry,

And know their echoing tones ring PEACE

O"ER all the earth and sky.

Hello everyone,

The poem I am sharing above came from the 1949 Spring Issue of Ideals Magazine. I hope you enjoyed it's old time, heartfelt sentiments.

I always love reading that publication, especially the older issues; and am always on the lookout for ones I don't have. Haunting the Goodwills, Salvation Army stores, as well as Auctions and Estate sales.

Well I'm sure like most of you - I'll not be spending much time on the computer this weekend.

There is still some items that need to be done - before the family gathers to celebrate Easter.

So I wanted to take this moment to wish you all a very Blessed and Happy Easter.

Hugs,

Penny & Sir Knight

Warm Purrs,

Genghis

We should be back Monday bright and early "God willing and the Creek don't rise". In my case it's the Mississippi River. Truth is, She is already rising but we are hoping that all the precautions that were taken in preparation this year will help keep damage to a minimum.

Friday Fun

2011-04-22T04:37:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

TGIF. Before you go getting all brain soft for the weekend - I wanted to share a few things with you.

When I was teaching I had a calendar that was nothing but these mind stretch puzzles and used them with my student to get them thinking each morning. I saved some of my favorites and I thought I'd share them with you. The one above is rather easy - but wait they get more difficult.

Also last weekend Sir Knight and I along with my roommate from college and her husband went on a road trip to Bishop Hill, Illinois. It was one of the first Swedish Settlements out this way. Although a bit early in the tourist season and not all the shops were open - we had a great time visiting the ones that were.

In the General Store I found this cute postcard and had such a good hearty laugh - I had to buy one so I could share it with you.

Now -I am of Norwegian ancestry - and really don't mind a bit of friendly poking fun of, as long as it is friendly - so I hope you don't think me rude for showing this on my blog.

You'll have to click on the picture to enlarge so you can read it.

Well I have a few last minute things I have to get done yet before the family comes for Easter - so I guess I better be running along.

Hugs,

Penny

PS. The answer to the Mind Stretch Puzzle is: Gridiron.

Thoughtful Thursday

2011-04-20T21:33:00.000-07:00

"Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one". … Stella Adler

Hello Everyone,

Well here we are more than half way through another week.

I wanted to take a moment and show you the wonderful ATC I received from my partner for this month. My talented partner was Rose and her blog is: Plush Possum Studio. If you've never been to her blog you should really check it out - she is wonderfully generous at sharing pictures and photographs - that one can adapt to their art project without worrying about copyrights.

The Theme for this month was Steampunk - in case you forgot - and in case you wanted to check out the card I sent Rose, again go here.

Here is the wonderful Digital Art Card I received from Rose. Isn't it great?

They say great minds think alike and I found it really uncanny that we both used the Number 17 in our Card. Weird.

This is the cute as a button envelope it was tucked in - along with the letter I received.

"When I give to you, what I make with my hands; I share with you, my heart.".. Anonymous

Rose, Thank you so very much for sending me what you've made with your hands but more importantly for sharing your heart.

Hugs,

Penny

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

Tuesday with Tea and Sticky Notes.

2011-04-18T21:41:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

I decided to have a Pre- Easter Tea Party for just you and me - since Easter day will be reserved for Family. Join me for Teacup Tuesday with Terri and Martha

Please come in and make yourself at home. I've got the table set- I just need to get the water heating.

Click on pictures to make them larger

I know that my tea cups are really mugs - but the bunnies in this set just stole my heart and I had to have it.

This little set was made in China and has a mark on the bottom that reads WMG - but I was unable to find out any information on the company that made it.

I have my favorite Easter Storybook out so we can share the Sweetest Story of the first Easter Bunny.

This particular story was published in 1994 by Current, Inc and bears the trade mark Expressions of Faith. ( I have tried to find this book again to purchase more for family and friends - but I have had no luck what so ever - even Current doesn't have it any more.)

Titled The Very First Easter Bunny - written by Kari Dahlin and adapted by Nan Roloff; It is the story of a bunny who is around to witness the burial of Jesus and gives testimony to his Resurrection. He fills a garden basket with little things that remind him of new life coming from something that looks dead and still - a broken egg from which a bird had recently hatched and a chrysalis left by a newly emerged butterfly. The birds help him fill the basket with spring flowers that sing of the earths renewal after a long winter then he leaves the basket for the man who buried Jesus.

"And every year after that on Easter Day, the little bunny delivered his joyous message of rebirth to the world, so that all of us would remember Jesus' special message of Love, Hope, and New Life."

I am so glad you stopped by and shared tea and a story with me. Lets do this again sometime soon. I had such a good time and hope you did too.

Hugs,

Penny

Big Scary Monster on Mancat Monday

2011-04-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

Here in the Midwest we had some very mixed up weather this weekend, starting on Friday; so I spent most of my time inside running from window to window and then to the doors to make sure everything was doing OK.

The winds blew and blew and blew really hard and then it rained - by Saturday it was really cold and we even saw some snow. Yesterday was chilly - but the sun was out for a little while in the afternoon - then it rained all night.

This is what Happened Friday when the wind was blowing so hard and furious. A piece of this Fir tree broke off last year - so I guess it was no surprise that the rest would fall this year. It only grazed the shed as it fell and there is some damage - but we are grateful that it's not as much as it could have been.

So there I was this morning - outside checking out my domain - when this big noisy and scary monster showed up. I ran for the door and thankfully Pellie let me in before it gobbled me up.

What the heck????????? Two men came with it - They talked to Sir Knight so it must have been alright for that monster to come to our house - but I still didn't feel safe around it.

He sure is big and just look at those teeth!

The men worked very hard cleaning up the broken part of the tree and then cut the rest of it down to the ground.

The big monster kept busy putting all the big logs into the truck so the guys could haul it away.

And now my backyard is all back to normal - minus the one tree and the long grass that Sir Knight said he has to get out and mow tomorrow.

While we are happy to have balance restored at our house we know that many people down south had things a lot rougher than us - and we pray for them and the long recovery process they will go through to return to normal.

Purrs,

Genghis

“Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s”

2011-04-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

The wind is cold and wild indicating a possible storm - hopefully - no Tornadoes this time.

As you know today is a very auspicious day.

First off today is Tax day- the last day to file for that refund the government owes you or worse the last day to pay any taxes you owe Uncle Sam, from the previous years withholdings.

“People want just taxes more than they want lower taxes. They want to know that everyman is paying his proportionate share according to his wealth.” . . . Will Rogers

Don‘t ask me why - but I was always one of those last minute folks - driving out to put my tax return in the hand of the post man, who used to stand outside the post office till the final stroke of midnight. (At least they did in Chicago and the suburbs.) No I didn‘t have to pay - so it wasn‘t that I wanted to keep earning interest till the last moment . - I think I just liked the slightly naughty feeling of waiting to do as I was commanded, till I had to.

“If Patrick Henry thought taxation without representation was bad, he should see how bad it is with representation“ . .. Old Farmers Almanac

Sir Knight likes things filed ahead of time and with all this E-filing - we already have our refund in the bank. So now in my old age tax day doesn’t mean as much as it used to- it's kind of anti climactic.

It is also the anniversary of the Titanic tragedy. I’m sure you know her story - even if it is only what you saw in the Movie of the same name. She was the largest passenger steamship of her time and was on her maiden voyage from Southampton England, to New York City, NY when she hit an iceberg at 23:40 on her fourth day out ( April 14th) and sank at 2:20 am April 15, 1912. Though new and supposedly well equipped the Titanic carried far less lifeboats than needed and this resulted in the loss of 1,517 people - mostly men as the crews protocol loaded women and children first.

Last but certainly not least - Today in 1955 - the future was changed for good or bad - time is still to tell. The first franchised McDonald fast food restaurant was opened in Des Plains, Illinois using the business philosophy of the McDonald Brothers - who ran a small restaurant in California. Well I think we all know how that’s going - there are now McDonald all over the world.

“It's almost seems as though there's a battle going on between the public and all the fast-food establishments, and, believe me, I think it's very tasty food.” . . . Regis Philbin

Have a really great Friday and a wonderful weekend.

Hugs,

Penny

Steampunk and Purses

2011-04-13T22:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

My neck is still sore - but I'm not in my neck brace right now - so all is once again well with my little corner of the world.

The theme for this months ATC over at Blissfull ATC Swap was steampunk. - now being a member of the senior citizenry this was something really different to me. I mean I never heard about it much less figured I should be using it as an art theme. So I gave it a go and was really playing around in my photo software. The first card I created was the one above - of dear little Genghis and I really thought he was the cats meow - but I didn't figure my partner would be as thrilled as I about how handsome he is.

So I noodled my brain some more and created this one.

Drum roll please. . . .
I titled it Opening the door to Steampunk and you guessed - my little door really opens up to reveal a Victorian Lady and a few gears.

Now I am not sure if I hit my mark or missed the idea behind steampunk all together; But I did give it the good old fashion try. I kind of like it - but then again - I've already sent it on to my swap partner - so I hope she likes it.

Of course - I made a card to send along with My ATC on its journey across the country. Just trying to inject a little humor where ever possible - maybe she'll be so busy laughing at the card - she won't care if my card isn't true steampunk or not. Ha! Ha!

Next I have been participating in the purse Challenges over at Frosted Petunia and this month - we were to make an ATC.

I'm not really a shoe or purse type person - I own only three purses - so I really had to do some meditating to get in contact with my inner purse hound - so to speak.

So I drew a fairy and put a purse in her hand and figured she could be the purse fairy - but then I figured any self respecting fairy would have more than one purse for each outfit. So here is my finished ATC - even A Fairy has to decide which purse goes best with her outfit.

A Little corny maybe and probably not as sophisticated as many of the cards that will get traded; but hey it's the best a tomboy with a sore neck could come up with at the time.

Of course I made my card to accompany my ATC on it's journey to Australia and sent it on its way - hoping it would reach her by the deadline date. Not sure how fast mail delivery is when heading overseas. So I got my fingers and toes all crossed hoping it gets there on time.

Hey maybe all that concentrating on keeping my fingers and toes crossed is why - my neck feels better. To much concentrating overriding my pain center.

Or maybe it's the pineapple my sweet sister-in-law tells me to eat, because it helps get rid of pain.

I guess I'll just meditate on that for awhile.

Hugs,

Penny

Wordless Wednesday? - Nope not today.

2011-04-12T21:30:00.000-07:00

Hi evfurryone,

I know it's suppose to be Wordless Wednesday - but I just didn't feel like being wordless today.

In fact today I wanted to do a little bragging about our very own and very cool Sir Knight.

Not only does he work long hours on his job - he comes home and works more. Pellie always has a job or two lined up for him. I know that sounds like we abuse the poor man - but if he wasn't so good at what he does - we wouldn't be asking him to do more; and I really think he likes working in the garage making things out of wood. Well most things - sometimes some of the stuff Pellie wants is really weird for him to design and make - but then thats a whole other story.

Any way - look at this really cool Dragon puzzle he made. Isn't it just the coolest thing? Well last month Pellie had mentioned to him that one of the ladies she spent Teacup Tuesdays with - had a husband who liked dragons - almost as much as he did. Never one to ignore a chance to make a new dragon loving friends - Sir Knight decided to send him this dragon. He had to do some pretty fancy packing since this guy was going all the way to Germany to make a new home.

Mail is pretty slow and it seemed like it took forever for him to get where he was going but he finally made it. Sir Knight was so proud that one of his dragons finally left the lair and headed out to a new home. (Even baby dragons have to leave the nest sometime.)

He is so pumped - that he is already planning on making a few more things when the weather is warn enough to work in the garage for more than 15-20 min.

Pellie's teacup friend is Johanna over at Silber-Rosen Blog and Pellie is very glad that not only did they become friends but the two husband can share their love of dragons and other wild creatures of the mythical sort.

I guess that is why we blog - the fun of blogging and making new friends. Yep making new friends sure feels good, inside and out.

So my friends, I hope you all have a purr- fect day.

Purrs,

Genghis

Sticky Note Tuesday

2011-04-11T23:02:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Hope you all are doing good or at least fairing better than I am

I've been in a neck brace and taking Muscle relaxants for the last couple days -due to a big muscle knot on the back of my neck - making head movement next to impossible or at least pain free head movement. And the worse part of the whole thing is that I don't even know what I did to cause everything to tighten up so bad. I am hopeful that I will be back to normal by the end of the week - if I just take it a bit easy for the next couple days.

This month sure seems like it's been moving on by pretty darn fast. Here it is the 12th and I'm just getting around to sharing my self-help card for this month.

The back of the card reads - Decide for yourself. Exercise your right to choose.

A Few Words to Ponder:

To think freely

In an automated world.

To simply be

In a world that says "be something".

To dream

In a world of cold reality.

To know someone

Here or there

With whom you can feel there is understanding...

In spite of distances

or thought unexpressed.

Well it's time to rest for me to awhile, so I guess I'll bid you a very good day.

Hugs,

Penny

National Pet Day on Mancat Monday

2011-04-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hello Evfurryone,

Just wanted to drop in an post a little on a subject rather dear to my heart.

Today, April 11th is National Pet Day.

'National Pet Day was created by Celebrity Pet Lifestyle Expert & Animal AdvocateColleen Paige, who also founded National Dog Day and National Cat Day {among others} to celebrate the joy pets bring to our lives and to create public awareness about the plight of many different kinds of animals awaiting a forever home in shelters all across the nation."

"It's estimated that approximately 16,000 pets die in U.S. shelters every single day. This means that roughly every single hour of the day, 667 sweet furry babies are taking their last breath. This is just cats and dogs and does not include the thousands of other unwanted animals that people consider pets. Right now, while you're reading this, hundreds of animals are dying. It's a painful reality but we must not give up hope to change it. "

The above quotes are taken from the National Pet Day Website. Please go visit them if you have a few minutes.

I am a rescue Kitty and was so happy when Pellie & Sir Knight adopted me a little over two years ago. So today I'm purring extra hard for all the others who need furever home.

In case you wondering - YES I do snuggle down with Bugs Bunny when the need arises; and the need arose on Sunday with all the nasty weather we were having and the sirens going off announcing Tornado warnings. (So you want to make something of it????

No I didn't think so)

Purrs,

Genghis

Not so Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

Hello evfurryone,

Well it's been awhile since either of us posted last - How rude of us.

I have to admit that with the massive change in temperatures we've been having - we haven't felt like doing much of anything.

But I knew I just had to crawl out of my new favorite box and tell you all about our new giveaway.

Congratulate us as we have stuck with this blogging stuff for two years now. Yep yesterday was officially 2 years. Pellie was suppose to blog about it - but she just sat around and didn't do much of anything yesterday.

Well, she was goofing around finishing up the little cross stitch piece she made for our giveaway.

The one she had hoped to finish for this auspicious occasion isn't even 1/4 ways done - so she hurried up and made a simpler one. But I want you to know that just 'cuz this one was easier for Pellie to see and/or do does not mean it isn't pretty- it is. It just isn't the cool one I picked out.

Of course I didn't have to do the work, so I really didn't care if it was difficult and Pellie didn't get started on it till the 26th of March. Oh well we will just give that one away later when she finishes it.

Any way, enough said about this.

Here are just a few of the neat things we want to share with one special someone. With Easter coming later this year - we decided we could work with that as our theme. The tall bunny like object is a Dee Foust Collectibles for Bethany Lowe Designs. Personally I could take it or leave it - it don't look like any rabbit I know - but Pellie says a lot of humans really like these Bethany Lowe seasonal items - so I'll take her word on it.

Then there is the cute little bunny Pellie cross stitched and framed in an embroidery hoop. This rabbit isn't much more believable as a rabbit - but I thing he is kind of cute in a rather offbeat way.

Then she has included a tiny little basket a friend of her's made just for our giveaway.

And last but most important - that heart shaped container is for treats. Can not forget the treats. Treats of course will be appropriate for whoever wins. - so we won't be sending woofie treats if a kitty wins and kitty treats to a woofie. (You get the picture I'm sure.) I understand that there will also be human treats.

Well I've pretty much wore myself out with all this talking. So leave us a comment saying you want to be included in our giveaway. We will keep this open till midnight April 15th - when we will draw our winner and get the package ready to mail out on the 18th and hopefully you will receive it in time for Easter.

Purrs,

Genghis

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-30T09:11:00.001-07:00

ATC's onThoughtful Thursday

2011-03-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Today I wanted to ponder for a little while on the attribute of quality. Doing the best you can - not settling for doing an adequate job just to get you by.

“One of the rarest things a man ever does, is to do the best he can.” Josh Billings

As you all know I love to spend my time making pretty things - but I just hate to create just to create. The house gets over run with too many of my art pieces and both Sir Knight and I have the packrat gene - so things like this have a tendency to escalate into mounds of pretty stuff. That’s why I like joining these swaps and making ATC’s (Artist Trading Cards) - I get a chance to be creative - and I don’t have a pile of my stuff laying around - yes I know I have other peoples stuff I hang on to - but that is different. Really it is.

Once again I joined two swaps for this month because I love the challenge to work with the different varying themes and because it pushes me and my muse to strive for quality work.

“Quality is everyone, responsibility.” W. Edward Deming

So let me share the fruits of this months labors with you.

The Blissful ATC Swap is the first part of the month and this months theme was a special picture which Wendy gave us that had to be used in whole or in part in the card. I told my self I was ready - but after seeing the picture I really wasn’t so sure.

Here is the picture we were given to use.

My partner for this swap was the extremely talented Donna over at Brynwood Needleworks - so I will say I was intimidated a bit right from the get go. If you have ever been over to her blog - you know her work is just gorgeous. Our e-mails indicated that both of us were rather stumped on what to do with the picture - so at least I felt like I was on a more even playing field. So we both thought and thought and then got to work.

Here is the card Donna sent me. It is made entirely out of fabric - using silk and even silk thread. Oh be still my heart - It is beautiful. And I love it. Look at those pretty beads, OH my!!!! If that wasn’t enough she also sent me a beautiful journal - which carried through with the dragonfly theme. Love it Donna, thank you so very much.

In my minds eye I knew that this needed to be oriental - but how to execute - that was the problem So my first attempt was mostly done digitally using an oriental temple as my background - adding some writing and this cute little girl - holding the card and a potion of the card used as a moon. But when I printed it and sat looking at it I hated it - It was much to busy .

Card # 1 - (rejected)

Card #3 (sent)

not sure why blogger loaded it in out of order

Car #2 (sent)

So I started again and this time I used an old historic map of the silk road as my background - added an oriental dragon to the map and my little girl from the first try. I printed it out and it was adequate - but I still wasn’t pleased I added it to a red brocade background to give it little bit of pop and add a pair if blue dragonflies - I called it Traveling Along the Silk Road. It was getting better but I told Sir Knight I still wasn’t sure about it.

So the next day I made my third card - the good old fashioned way - by hand . I quilled dark brown paper to form a branch and then hand water colored the petals for my Japanese Cherry blossom (No paper I had was just quite delicate enough for me - so I mad my own) Then I added my little girl holding the card - by this point I was quite attached to this little girl - also again used the idea of the circle on the card being a moon and attached a gold dragon fly. Titled this one Dragonfly Moon.

Now this I liked but I wasn’t sure which one would appeal to Donna. So I sent her both of them - told her to keep the one she liked best and throw the other out if she wanted.

“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, and skillful execution; It represent the wise choice of many alternatives.” William A. Foster

To be honest I’m still not sure I can say that either of the cards - really struck a cord with my soul - so using that picture sure was a challenge for me.

We got our Treasure Barn Partners around the 11th of the month and the theme for this month was shamrocks. My partner was Tiffine, in the sunny state of California and since her computer was down for repairs - I wasn’t able to get a feel for her personality or her likes and dislike - but I pressed on.

This one is titled Shamrock Wishes

Tiffine sent me two cards look at these are they not lovely. They are beautiful and I love them. Thank you so much Tiffine.

The title of this one is Saint Patrick

The card she sent with both ATC's

Here is the card I made - Using a book theme as my background - I copied a cute little child’s rhyme about shamrock on one page of the book and used a vintage little lassie on the other page. Of course - there is a bit of glitter -you know me - it’s not finished until the glitters on. I then added a ribbon bookmark and a few emerald green gems. And titled it: The sweet symbol of Ireland.

Then of course I made a card to send with it.

“It is easier to do a job right; than to explain why you didn’t.” Martin Van Buren

Now if that wasn’t enough excitement for a month I received another surprise in the mail today - Its envelope battered and worn, stamped and restamped -I think the poor thing traveled the country a bit before reaching me. The original post mark says March 5th so it may even have traveled the silk road . Who knows.

Here is the card from my partner in the Blissful ATC Swap from February. Titled Shelter from the rain.

The cards with her card.

Wow this has almost turned into a novel - so I best stop for the evening.

Hugs,

Penny

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T05:10:00.001-07:00

Sticky Note Tuesday

2011-03-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

Mancat Monday

2011-03-21T05:11:00.000-07:00

Hey Evfurryone,

Genghis here. Boy am I glad it's Monday - not just because I get to visit with all of you again and I especially like that part of Mondays - cuz I start to miss all of you - But also, because we had such a busy weekend around here. I was really glad to see Sir Knight head off to work this morning - I figure Pellie and I will need to rest while he is gone.

So what did we do you ask? Work, work and more work.

On Friday night - bear and I (we share the basement apartment at night), told Sir Knight that we were awful tired of that darn machine in the back room making so much noise - it interferes with our beauty sleep. So he checked it out and agreed with us that it was about time it got replaced.

First thing Saturday morning, they went to the store and bought a new machine and a bunch of other things Sir Knight thought would need replacing, to make the machine work better.

Then we all got to work. The old machine was hauled out of the hole it sits in and boy was it icky - no wonder it sounded like it was on its last leg. It was. Pellie thought that maybe it was 15 years old and both beans agreed that is old for a machine like this. So I guess it served us well and now it gets to head off to the big junk yard in the sky. Sir Knight set to work getting the new machine ready to put down in the hole, and he found he didn't have enough parts after all - so he had to head back to the store, while Pellie bailed water out of the hole and dumped it outside in the back yard. I of course was busy snoopervising - watching the hole to make sure the water didn't come up over its rim and warning Pellie if it looked like it might. Sir Knight was back in record time and got to working on the machine - in between carrying the heavy buckets of water upstairs for Pellie. Finally the machine went into the hole and it pumped the water out of the hole for us. Yeah!!!! Boy it does it's job real fast and is soooooooooo quiet bear and I slept like babies Sat night.

After cleaning up the mess in the basement we all headed upstairs and then out to the garage, where we had to nicely pack up all the Christmas decorations that had been haphazardly thrown into the garage when it was cold and snowy. We folded everything up nicely and put it all away in it proper place. - now, I won't have to worry about things falling and breaking when I play in the garage.

That done; Pellie decided to bring up a few of her spring items to decorate the front of the house and had Sir Knight busy hanging all that stuff. Of course I was busy enjoying being outside in the fresh air again and only snoopervised when it was necessary.

Super moon not real visible - thanks to cloud cover.

Spring arrived - bringing with it a super moon (at least that's what the weatherman called it) and plenty of rain, with thunder and lighting. But according to the weather service - spring is just a date on the calender so far - cuz , we are told to be expecting snow again by Wednesday or Thursday.

Man I am so sick and tired of snow. I can't wait till there is nice tender shoots of grass to chew on and a warm sun to sleep under.

That light above the moon is lighting

Sunday was spent with Pellie packing up her snowman collection and starting Spring house cleaning. Sir Knight was kept busy building a few things for Pellies craft room. (Like she really needs more stuff in there) He built a roll around storage cabinet for her customized it to fit some of the supplies she wanted to store in it. Then he had to paint it.

I of course had to snoopervise each project.

I really do hate the feeling of wet paint on my paws when I forget and jump onto something like this new cart to check it out. I am also not crazy about Pellie chasing me around to wipe my paws - so I don't get paw prints all around the house.

When they had all that accomplished - they went out and did a little grocery shopping - so I had to check out everything they brought in and make sure it was good and had to tell them where to put everything.

Now I'm just plain old tuckered out. I think I will take a nap -before I go visiting all of you.

Purrs,

Genghis