tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75817759785851446832024-02-19T17:58:58.325-06:00Life as an art formA blog about my favorite things: nature,family, food, travel, humor, growth and joy, semi-chronologically.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.comBlogger3763125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-62864012131284746012017-06-27T23:25:00.003-05:002017-06-27T23:25:30.638-05:00Cap and Gown time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFueVJUaQQTkm3xh0E2YVeLnkRf23gb_pjEKepQorVqgPEgAC0QRzSRHZgLf8501hOdY-wm_IrMAzZ0Ing95Q1luF-nUifRYcS5BqEFGdHJP9-x44U2vdlIH5xkQ56Y-ZHwywf7dQoiuE/s1600/IMG_1767mod.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1333" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFueVJUaQQTkm3xh0E2YVeLnkRf23gb_pjEKepQorVqgPEgAC0QRzSRHZgLf8501hOdY-wm_IrMAzZ0Ing95Q1luF-nUifRYcS5BqEFGdHJP9-x44U2vdlIH5xkQ56Y-ZHwywf7dQoiuE/s400/IMG_1767mod.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span data-offset-key="9n0bi-0-0"><span data-text="true">One of my students sent me our group photo from the Art Institutes International's graduation ceremony a couple weeks ago. This will be the last group of Graphic Design majors graduating from the Lenexa campus. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="5d993-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Gotta brag about these ladies. Talented, dedicated, hardworking. Their final projects and portfolios blew me away—so proud of all they've accomplished already!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="b9ffa-0-0"><span data-text="true"> If anyone is looking for fresh design talent, please message me, I'd love to connect you, and they're all looking for careers and freelance work. (I plan to work with them myself!)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="6a3i-0-0"><span data-text="true"> These 6 months of teaching have been such a great experience—I absolutely loved it. The students each inspired me and I hope I did the same for them. I've tried to live up to the high standards of the instructors I had in high school and college and impart some of the wisdom they instilled in me, as well as draw from my own experience. Hope to find another opportunity to teach... my work here is not done.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Big thanks to my buddies </span></span><span class="_247o" data-offset-key="1g1ub-1-0" spellcheck="false"><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-1-0"><span data-text="true">Heather Ralls</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-2-0"><span data-text="true">, </span></span><span class="_247o" data-offset-key="1g1ub-3-0" spellcheck="false"><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-3-0"><span data-text="true">Charlotte Belland</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-4-0"><span data-text="true">, and </span></span><span class="_247o" data-offset-key="1g1ub-5-0" spellcheck="false"><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-5-0"><span data-text="true">David Delbianco</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="1g1ub-6-0"><span data-text="true"> for your help and encouragement! </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-81832727775125385912017-06-26T20:29:00.002-05:002017-06-27T23:34:38.842-05:00A day of "rest"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvl5-m9tMGSyY_1FRbdEjj3dpAlukgQ1F613VWTkC8Q-tepIaNtSQzYFf3ypMiz7Xmwz4vS5GCJpkBpXool_1SXJSxpsYT9oX8QKM5Mvls1T-jp-Vk8bH7spM7ETYi2a9KAYdcHWfRxg/s1600/IMG_1846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvl5-m9tMGSyY_1FRbdEjj3dpAlukgQ1F613VWTkC8Q-tepIaNtSQzYFf3ypMiz7Xmwz4vS5GCJpkBpXool_1SXJSxpsYT9oX8QKM5Mvls1T-jp-Vk8bH7spM7ETYi2a9KAYdcHWfRxg/s400/IMG_1846.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #454545; font-size: 17px;"> I've said it before and I'll probably say it again: the one thing I don't love about my line of work is how sedentary it is. Long hours of creating art on the computer takes its toll on a body! I feel better when I can move regularly.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So for me I prefer not to "relax" in my downtime… moving is relaxing and stress relieving. And I got 11 hours of stress relief in the yard today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I started in the front yard, trimming, weeding the flower beds and the patio and driveway, discovering the house finch nest being built in one of my hanging baskets. Then I swept and hosed the patio.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Then I moved to the backyard, trimming shrubs and trees, and piling branches and leaves in the fire pit to burn. It was fortunate that it was a cooler day, because I had quite the raging fire going! Sorry, neighbors!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHEgsF4KZDD-M4s31L0zJEoIkmonJtgu7FuhIEhprhPir4OOCC5vfG53vEsN0GnYg6xFP9_96zx4TR8uQAHj8ZyikOIcRxbUbDiLdZ5k44ybE5jCnxAGIZaxq3sgiy9Q4yox_H2NKKKE/s1600/IMG_1837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHEgsF4KZDD-M4s31L0zJEoIkmonJtgu7FuhIEhprhPir4OOCC5vfG53vEsN0GnYg6xFP9_96zx4TR8uQAHj8ZyikOIcRxbUbDiLdZ5k44ybE5jCnxAGIZaxq3sgiy9Q4yox_H2NKKKE/s400/IMG_1837.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The forsythia bush gets gargantuan every year and tries to take over the yard, and I fight back with my trimmers. There were "volunteer" maples and redbud trees everywhere. My air conditioning unit was surrounded by baby trees popping up, and groundcover from my neighbors yard coming under the fence. Tamed it all.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7_ipJKcEkxp6o4PgsEmrcEivUdSwcb5qKn2T3rQxSPPNScRSQOQEto5gz9S4h06sDhNutyNXaJHeJDZGWmzeTSCQoECcZNxJe2hEkSeltKw70cr3iwcweopcd8LsOO2zGxPd7YiGJvQ/s1600/IMG_1880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7_ipJKcEkxp6o4PgsEmrcEivUdSwcb5qKn2T3rQxSPPNScRSQOQEto5gz9S4h06sDhNutyNXaJHeJDZGWmzeTSCQoECcZNxJe2hEkSeltKw70cr3iwcweopcd8LsOO2zGxPd7YiGJvQ/s320/IMG_1880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> After a quick lunch I treated myself to a "break": running to the nearby hardware store to check out their plant selection. All plants were 75% off, so I grabbed a few more perennials for the beds and pots on the deck, and a large, beautiful palm and ceramic pot to place in the living room. The palm was only five bucks, so I could hardly pass it up! Even if the cat eats it, I'm not out much.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2e8EklfVCqT2sDXS3aLL1rA68S9Zt437WZ8P54wKL_JxhRjijuxLgYLcgg-jKyibBp62Yuf1nWA7EXDAizA_a8A6dWtz0bmyjd-0w7A5aLgb29TR7U-RlqOfN-cO8DGmVcOvAV9oJXE/s1600/IMG_1853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2e8EklfVCqT2sDXS3aLL1rA68S9Zt437WZ8P54wKL_JxhRjijuxLgYLcgg-jKyibBp62Yuf1nWA7EXDAizA_a8A6dWtz0bmyjd-0w7A5aLgb29TR7U-RlqOfN-cO8DGmVcOvAV9oJXE/s400/IMG_1853.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Then I came home and got all the new plants squared away. Finished trimming and burning. Put all the tools away just as the rain started. And came inside to shower, and get ready to grill some steak for dinner. (Which fortunately had not been ruined by the 3 blueberries, 1 cherry tomato, and handful of sorrel I harvested from my yard and ate.)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAgZ-MWoMgRp9vBFvZYnprLs0iKuq3lLbFd-sE37QH8tWstUi_UYozgGjuYuwtYXqCuwM6aMG3Aw0aAYkpREUxfkD2oLVFuC5jowqqZKAFRpW5KydfWrwfHLzbdCM8Ql5_c12sEhe2K4/s1600/IMG_1838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieAgZ-MWoMgRp9vBFvZYnprLs0iKuq3lLbFd-sE37QH8tWstUi_UYozgGjuYuwtYXqCuwM6aMG3Aw0aAYkpREUxfkD2oLVFuC5jowqqZKAFRpW5KydfWrwfHLzbdCM8Ql5_c12sEhe2K4/s320/IMG_1838.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The dogs and Kismet (on a harness and long leash for safety) hung out with me in the yard all day. We were all tired—the good kind of tired!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuMYjXKXUAyFr-ryjA3b1upVi5MiVzQ9MpT-J59auLeB1OcG_WN2vtieTSPcrk_DU7GDg6LRrzSvcyHIljTrGRv-vecP6o2X3SO-IN91bGyMM4Si5ZJ1Lu98VWG9MmNZS5c9vBz9hEUU/s1600/IMG_1842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuMYjXKXUAyFr-ryjA3b1upVi5MiVzQ9MpT-J59auLeB1OcG_WN2vtieTSPcrk_DU7GDg6LRrzSvcyHIljTrGRv-vecP6o2X3SO-IN91bGyMM4Si5ZJ1Lu98VWG9MmNZS5c9vBz9hEUU/s400/IMG_1842.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> It felt great to tackle everything at once, and I'm excited to invite some friends over for a barbecue and evening around the fire pit. It has been so rewarding to see how much my yard has evolved over the last 13+ years. Nature is truly amazing, and I am grateful for the chances to shape it. Some years I do a lot, so I'm just a little, depending on what else life is throwing at me. It all adds up to so much beauty! </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-68353218666244376642017-06-25T13:16:00.001-05:002017-06-25T13:38:43.302-05:00Welcome home, finches!<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12pt;">Early this morning, I started working in the yard. I was out front weeding and kitty was outside with me. Suddenly a pair of house finches landed on the hook holding the birdfeeder. Kitty and I became very still as they "talked" to each other and sang. It was so enchanting! Watched and listened for several minutes before they finally flew away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Next I took down my hanging baskets to water them. Many times I just use the extension on the hose and water them while they're still hanging. Boy was I glad I didn't do that today! When I sat down one of the baskets, look what I found! Now I know what Mr. and Mrs. Finch were talking about. Hope there will be some eggs in this perfect little nest soon…</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span>https://indianaaudubon.org/portfolio/house-finch/<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12pt;">Kismet has been joining me outside (on a harness and 50' leash for safety) and LOVES it. Look how tired she is from being out all morning. LOL!!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-33570198805469968102017-06-18T23:20:00.003-05:002017-06-18T23:20:58.697-05:00Shed Happens. A lot.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLqkPXZ3s9zxBiz1kpUBYSTvvxSCn1XQHVR_OjmO875N28DsQkmfvQKQfN2L0wyaV8c6FIEryqfK2pqLoaU8uXRX4qEOXhpE99oLQzdu6s-Kg7eb9X62xO_NfFDjnaBjKDTV6tbgR_A8/s1600/3-pets-bath.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="732" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLqkPXZ3s9zxBiz1kpUBYSTvvxSCn1XQHVR_OjmO875N28DsQkmfvQKQfN2L0wyaV8c6FIEryqfK2pqLoaU8uXRX4qEOXhpE99oLQzdu6s-Kg7eb9X62xO_NfFDjnaBjKDTV6tbgR_A8/s400/3-pets-bath.jpeg" width="305" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Today
was spa day for the three amigos. Brush, bath, more brushing... They're
all shedding like fiends. How do you get a trash bag full of hair off
two 25 pound dogs?! It's one of the great mysteries of science. And the
only thing I would change about Shibas! <br /> The cat? Well, she's perfect.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> In addition to 3 baths and loads and loads of brushing, today entailed 2 walks, 4 loads of laundry (my bed, dog beds), meticulously vacuuming the whole house, scrubbing floors in 3 rooms, shampooing 2 rugs, a little gardening, a little work on the new/old car (hooking up the trickle charger), grocery shopping and grilling dinner. So much for Sunday being a day of rest—I'm tired!!!</span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-25823750500854474272017-06-18T08:34:00.000-05:002017-06-18T08:34:01.256-05:00Out with the Blogger<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I've used Blogger for years, and I guess you really do get what you pay for... it's free. Many of my older images have mysteriously disappeared; the iPhone app is no longer supported and was always a crash-fest even on a good day, and just try posting from a browser on a phone... absolute nightmare!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I hate to abandon my blog after so many years, and need to see about transferring the content to a new platform. I only know enough to be dangerous with these things. If you're reading this and have advice, please comment with your suggestions—much appreciated! :)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-15827643037626888222017-06-18T08:30:00.001-05:002017-06-18T08:31:05.134-05:00Dog n Jog 2017 / Father's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_23pAHVeJEYWKk5N42hMEyqf6td1GhmJYUeiomIhaoWoS99iM6rhc1ta3WZ2FS3fHicKnbPm9AcEiChJLUMwhoGwPo4JR1J17JL1Z5zaxVJ450JDmQxzWPl5gSrw-5vOTzLdWP48ShM/s1600/19030218_10154763353767217_7494715399322381347_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="959" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_23pAHVeJEYWKk5N42hMEyqf6td1GhmJYUeiomIhaoWoS99iM6rhc1ta3WZ2FS3fHicKnbPm9AcEiChJLUMwhoGwPo4JR1J17JL1Z5zaxVJ450JDmQxzWPl5gSrw-5vOTzLdWP48ShM/s400/19030218_10154763353767217_7494715399322381347_n.jpeg" width="398" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Happy Father's day to my Dad. He drove all the way out here from
Columbus to attend Dog n Jog with me last weekend. Here's a photo of us,
and a few photos captured by the KC Community Faces photographer. Fun
to see that sea of orange shirts! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> We had a great crowd as usual! So much fun, and soooooo many pups! Always fun to see so many people sporting my t-shirt design, and as usual, saw a few shirts from past years. I love that people like the shirts enough that they keep them and wear them again and again—I see them around town too. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> It has been such a fun privilege to design the branding for this event since 2005! Big thanks to Kate, Kathi, Gina, and all my friends at The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City! The Shiba Squad and I are already looking forward to next year.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkhglNRrrR0g6SFn6nDqdsMPg9KJsSwhJVwTkXPScFsmFv-yRKR7eMG5FG-5Y7l5ymNmrpCYyI5AjHFOZ4IMLpQkdz9rLcpox7bQdCGwdS2bP4mvK3IGkSMNqzzb8E8voLJ75iR1bcQU/s1600/tn_250a3255.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="924" data-original-width="1300" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkhglNRrrR0g6SFn6nDqdsMPg9KJsSwhJVwTkXPScFsmFv-yRKR7eMG5FG-5Y7l5ymNmrpCYyI5AjHFOZ4IMLpQkdz9rLcpox7bQdCGwdS2bP4mvK3IGkSMNqzzb8E8voLJ75iR1bcQU/s400/tn_250a3255.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Gina Levra, volunteer manager for HSGKC</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Gary Lezak and Sunny the Weather Dog</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> 2014 & 2016 shirts</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Me, trying to keep up with Mister T!
10 years old, and running strong for a very hot mile<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVi9Iy4fSKepHofgaWfqXpXRH3WVkeLfcb_5FfMyd91RYkg8qJE3tZC_U8MNWECXtd6lsvDI7BoHO5HgqDZeVWLnBv2bU_jpecSKEuLQlBu6CnlCvzp2rf3me_T-3t639lwcljtTqSlU/s1600/tn_250a4227.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1300" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVi9Iy4fSKepHofgaWfqXpXRH3WVkeLfcb_5FfMyd91RYkg8qJE3tZC_U8MNWECXtd6lsvDI7BoHO5HgqDZeVWLnBv2bU_jpecSKEuLQlBu6CnlCvzp2rf3me_T-3t639lwcljtTqSlU/s400/tn_250a4227.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-2188333811471621042017-05-21T08:43:00.001-05:002017-05-21T08:55:58.961-05:00Uncanny<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> I can't say that I put much stock in horoscopes, but I've always found reading them irresistible. And this morning, while online searching for a photo of an apple for a project I'm creating, I ran across this 2016 horoscope. And whether by accident or fate, there are many things in it that relate to my experiences last year. Wow. <a href="http://dreamicus.com/horoscopes/capricorn.html" target="_blank">Thanks for the goosebumps, Dreamicus</a>!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> "One negative manifestation of the energies this year is the
activation of your stubbornness; you can be your own worst enemy by
digging in and remaining blind to the obvious. You are given a golden
opportunity to change the things in your life that make you unhappy or
unsatisfied, and yet you may want to avoid this at all costs to avoid
uncertainty and to take a devil you know is best attitude. You should
embrace some risk and accept the windows of opportunity that are there
or else you risk stagnation. Do not sit back and think that
opportunities will come knocking again – they may not, so act now.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Elimination is also a theme for 2016 – but it should never be for the
sake of elimination, it needs to be carefully done. You should not cut
your ties with people or groups without resolving the issues relating to
those groups – you should not walk away, you should work on amicable
partings where hatchets are buried and bygones become bygones. It is
important in business to consolidate lending, simplify your tax matters
and lessen your dependence on borrowing. Try to negotiate lending terms
that offer you more flexibility and where you can feel more in control.
You may also have to access which social networks or groups take up more
of your time than is necessary, and which are vital to your promotional
and business efforts. Look at all the cogs and the wheels of your
professional life and see which are not contributing and work at
eliminating them. Letting go can be a liberating experience as long as
you do it in a way that resolves not exacerbates conflict; constructive
negotiations, arbitration and dispute resolution processes can work well
for you. Elimination should not mean avoidance; don't just bury your
head in the sand and think a problem has gone away just because you are
avoiding it – you must tackle things head-on.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Personal responsibility is a key element to your success; only you
know your wants, needs, desires, weaknesses and vulnerabilities, and
only you can ultimately make decisions that will create fulfilment in
your life. Reduce your reliance on advice and support from others. Even
in medical issues, do not leave it up to your doctor – you know your
lifestyle better than your doctor can ever know it, and thus it is you
who is in the ideal position to make changes, find health triggers (i.e.
allergies) and take your health into your hands by making life-changing
dietary or fitness changes. You are your own best psychologist – when
we look for advice, we only listen to what we want to hear, even if in
our heart we know what we should be doing.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Creatively, you can work in fits and starts, and it is a complex year
for those who work in artistic fields, as while you are inspired and
imaginative, at times self-doubt may paralyse you. It is important for
all artists to have solid skills and techniques to fall back on – it may
even be good to attend a refresher course, and if your skills are not
strong enough, make sure they are. The insecurity you feel about your
ability should propel you to shore up and enhance your set of skills.
The surer you are of the basics, the more confident you will feel, so no
matter how experienced you are, do not be afraid to learn, re-learn and
eliminate anything rusty."</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-59041918254517975112017-05-18T09:30:00.002-05:002017-05-21T08:59:45.098-05:006th grade graduation day!<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="ad9lh" data-offset-key="3tmqc-0-0">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="3tmqc-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Today was the sixth grade graduation celebration at the elementary school in my neighborhood. I teach on Tuesday mornings, so I don't get to see the kids walking to school. But yesterday when I walked, Mary the crossing guard handed me a folded piece of paper from Kayla… An invitation to today's events! </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="b5mvn-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Have to say it felt a little strange going into the school, being a woman with no children. But if Kayla wanted me there, I'd be there. I greeted Mary, and she stopped traffic for me to cross the street for the first time!</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="27ns4-0-0"><span data-text="true"> I checked in at the office and provided my drivers license in exchange for a visitor sticker, then had to ask for help to find the breakfast. A nice woman directed me there, and pointed out Kayla, who was sitting with her back towards me.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="dm1sa-0-0"><span data-text="true"> I walked up behind her and sat down next to her, fully unprepared for her reaction. The look on her face when she turned and saw me was absolutely priceless. She exclaimed, "You came!" And for the next hour, I found myself barely able to fight back tears.<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Totally wasn't expecting the deluge of emotion!</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="14mp0-0-0"><span data-text="true"> After breakfast, they showed a 30 minute video beginning with each kid's photos: a baby picture, and then a current picture, set to the Beatles' "Here Comes the Sun". That nearly destroyed me. Made me realize how many of these kids I've met, and how quickly they're all growing up. Then there were pictures from kindergarten all the way up to the field day that was held yesterday. I had talked with a bunch of the kids as they were walking to school in their athletic clothes, all excited for the day's events—so it was fun to catch a glimpse.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="ja2c-0-0"><span data-text="true"> In case any Pawnee Elementary parents are reading this, let me just say: you have a great bunch of kids, and I've really grown to love them! It has been a fun and unexpected privilege to become a small part of your family. Congratulations on their graduation. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="a03m9-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Don't even get me started about how tomorrow is the last day I'm going to see these sixth graders. And the last day I will see Mary until school starts in the fall.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span data-offset-key="fkhik-0-0"><span data-text="true">Ah geez, I seem to have something in my eye again.</span></span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-62022772758678855072017-05-17T12:05:00.001-05:002017-05-17T12:05:41.021-05:00Good Neighbors It has been an emotional week. Mary had her husband's funeral on Friday. I didn't go, but was there in spirit. Today she brought me the program with his picture and a quote from the Bible he liked: " I shall pass through this world but wants, any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being – let me do it now, for I shall not pass this way again." Great rule to live by. Mary was very lucky to have her Luther for nearly 66 years of marriage. And I'm very lucky to count her among my friends.<br />
Along with the program, she handed me a folded sheet of paper, which she said that Kayla asked her to give to me. I didn't get to see Kayla and Michael yesterday since I teach on Tuesday mornings. It was an invitation to Kayla's six grade graduation. Nearly brought me to tears that she wants me to attend. I've been walking nearly every morning since January 2016, and all the people I've met have really made an impression on me. So many kids love seeing my dogs, and over time I've helped even those who are afraid to build the courage to interact with them. This helps my fearful Aki too. I think she will always be afraid of new people, but these interactions have really helped her.<br />
A couple nights ago when I was walking, I was passing one of the most beautiful yards in the neighborhood – I appreciate it every time I walk by. There is lovely stonework framing the yard, and large flower beds full of shrubs and blooms. For the first time, there was someone out front. He was friendly and immediately came over to say hi to me and the dogs, and introduce himself. Carlos said he has been in the neighborhood about 10 years! Shocked me, because I've been around for 13, and I've walked enough that I am surprised we have never met. It was such a treat for me to be able to complement him on his landscape design, and to thank him because it benefits all of us in the neighborhood.<br />
I live in the library district, because we are located behind the counties main library. And our neighborhood association is appropriately called Good Neighbors. and I appreciate them now more than ever, since I have worked at home for over two years. Proud to be part of such a wonderful community.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-16649674125578219882017-05-14T15:54:00.002-05:002017-05-14T15:54:22.749-05:00Dog dayshttps://youtu.be/omA5RVz4wTU<br />
Video from May 14, 2012, of a happy pack of dogs celebrating Asher, Bella, and Brandi's birthdays at Joni's house.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-76085758367454994032017-05-08T09:54:00.000-05:002017-05-08T16:07:12.540-05:00Rainy days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9EinZGnXZD4jTtRViKsbE7SVNYLnsc8qjJjz5fVIHHENKGdFRDDYiZvinWG5jfKJ1Kvdsez7f0C6Rw_e_IsdbKAR-8w7i6e4fdz_J56ubnkTBgQrMaVm4kCY6XZY5WLYOTt5Tkk9kVZw/s640/blogger-image-526993134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9EinZGnXZD4jTtRViKsbE7SVNYLnsc8qjJjz5fVIHHENKGdFRDDYiZvinWG5jfKJ1Kvdsez7f0C6Rw_e_IsdbKAR-8w7i6e4fdz_J56ubnkTBgQrMaVm4kCY6XZY5WLYOTt5Tkk9kVZw/s400/blogger-image-526993134.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;">May 4, 2017: sketch from yesterday's walk in the pouring #rain - the Shibas and I have developed a very special relationship with Mary, the crossing guard at the elementary school in our neighborhood. She brings treats for the dogs every day, and yesterday she handed me her umbrella so I could keep us dry as she distributed them. Seeing her is one of the highlights of our day, every day, so we're out there no matter the weather. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;"> Update, May 8, 2017: This morning when I walked the dogs over to the elementary school, Mary was uncharacteristically reserved. Her husband has been very ill for many months. She told me that she brought him home from the hospital yesterday and he is in hospice care. Or as she put it, "I brought him home to die."</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;"> She is 82, he's 85, and they're 66th wedding anniversary is next month. She said the only time they've been apart is when he was in the Marine Corps. My heart is breaking for her.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;"> What gives me some peace is that she told me several people have asked her if she can take care of herself, and if she knows what she needs to do (legally and financially, I assume). She said yes. She is indeed a strong woman. So strong that when I hugged her (fighting back tears), she didn't flinch. I know she'll be okay in time. Just hate seeing people I care about in pain.</span></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-72721334079453912722017-05-07T22:29:00.001-05:002017-05-08T06:52:46.954-05:00OK? OK!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqsElGRbHuQtCNyJs7fiqbxMEct9JZ_BvVVKiaRnjjoocuXu02g7jqumiOhUVMh6z6RxRCFVpYwyb6rpdM7b-yo5onYNOqgNGAk3QDQil_9cbgNKKSJ79twxQOOt_Q2P681HNgrsvuYY/s640/blogger-image--1481249406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqsElGRbHuQtCNyJs7fiqbxMEct9JZ_BvVVKiaRnjjoocuXu02g7jqumiOhUVMh6z6RxRCFVpYwyb6rpdM7b-yo5onYNOqgNGAk3QDQil_9cbgNKKSJ79twxQOOt_Q2P681HNgrsvuYY/s640/blogger-image--1481249406.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">I notice interesting #synchronicity all the time. Taught #scubadiving for 12 hours yesterday, and again today. And tonight when I was out walking the dogs, I found a big #OK painted on the sidewalk. But I have to say, I am so proud of the students, who did SO much better than okay! Such a privilege to introduce people to their new favorite #adventure .</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">The other synchronicity: at the park, we passed a woman whose shirt said, "teaching is the profession that creates all other professions."</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"> </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-24285216226614448242017-05-06T12:18:00.001-05:002017-05-06T12:19:28.254-05:00Diving 411<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcztGgZojat3eceFf7gWuizt08ShRs1hti4pNVZMb-T9p1-M2Z_JeLE3EdTCJkABwsheQrkCHJh32VoSprkID4PtOSmeWQ2lety-LyDprduXzll3EZLFwtw8e5uKknbccXHt55_eW4r0/s640/blogger-image--37365738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidcztGgZojat3eceFf7gWuizt08ShRs1hti4pNVZMb-T9p1-M2Z_JeLE3EdTCJkABwsheQrkCHJh32VoSprkID4PtOSmeWQ2lety-LyDprduXzll3EZLFwtw8e5uKknbccXHt55_eW4r0/s640/blogger-image--37365738.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">Part of PADI open water scuba training is watching a (almost hilariously thorough) video. I'll be watching it three weekends in a row, so I couldn't help but draw this.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"> </span></div>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 15px;"><br></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;">All kidding aside, scuba diving is probably the closest experience you'll ever have to visiting another planet. Incredible, awe-inspiring, and very highly recommended!!! And very safe when you've been properly trained.</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-69084563865834955882017-05-05T08:05:00.001-05:002017-05-06T06:07:30.253-05:00Final destination: posty cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Q6_Zz_qXVTrSqbuQ50U_V8ncK1v2TYHWIspdzU3xNpLS6CYHszDu44_rMEUWj7BL_JBpsVh-pZAV84EGZG0W7k6wi_TdEOY93cpbkNgVhagds2ulglyRDzjftz_stE2Zq1SSh9ADucA/s640/blogger-image-703670610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Q6_Zz_qXVTrSqbuQ50U_V8ncK1v2TYHWIspdzU3xNpLS6CYHszDu44_rMEUWj7BL_JBpsVh-pZAV84EGZG0W7k6wi_TdEOY93cpbkNgVhagds2ulglyRDzjftz_stE2Zq1SSh9ADucA/s640/blogger-image-703670610.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> My students were being a little dramatic about the potential hazards of this morning's field trip.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCl_tbVS1gsIgGMHyAreQe2vl41O1AQyh0o9KNSOOSwjadXvvMgxRj98gCLhaorTBZJzfcnOlX2uJ07aom9qaX4vxcuahnd1SydeXcCnrOe99E9HQj-3WsS4zlH9aDZJVVzlDMOeaWDI/s640/blogger-image-303220776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoCl_tbVS1gsIgGMHyAreQe2vl41O1AQyh0o9KNSOOSwjadXvvMgxRj98gCLhaorTBZJzfcnOlX2uJ07aom9qaX4vxcuahnd1SydeXcCnrOe99E9HQj-3WsS4zlH9aDZJVVzlDMOeaWDI/s640/blogger-image-303220776.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Still, we made it safely to the PA print award show and enjoyed all the inspiration. Someone had nominated and the art unleashed 2016 invitation, featuring my logo!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwD8Dz0nELnIcrpenWvcsLJi68GwBk38pmLXbl4LZXcN8JfwqTyekfZVy7svZ7EouByN4KORFa5sSKvANVWEaaarUmz5fYDHwLNFHGZp2OGxi34gGamX7ry2tovpd-P2sPOYU_kQKCP2I/s640/blogger-image-1147684160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwD8Dz0nELnIcrpenWvcsLJi68GwBk38pmLXbl4LZXcN8JfwqTyekfZVy7svZ7EouByN4KORFa5sSKvANVWEaaarUmz5fYDHwLNFHGZp2OGxi34gGamX7ry2tovpd-P2sPOYU_kQKCP2I/s640/blogger-image-1147684160.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> And on the way home, I looked to my left and there were two huge trucks carrying a bunch of wood logs, which I certainly didn't want through my windshield. Creeped me out! Couldn't wait to get out of there. What a fun day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jShuSV0vjbJ32H_2bYAF5ne7Un_WHWzmFjhZUxoxd_24uRxTmIT-7yCnACfcswh6dNvX9PTbJFohyphenhyphenS8IyzpM6MqeQtRTkF3gr1Ifz8o52IHWMLrgFxvEliEpaRZ1eOR2xrcuQil69eE/s640/blogger-image--581604126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jShuSV0vjbJ32H_2bYAF5ne7Un_WHWzmFjhZUxoxd_24uRxTmIT-7yCnACfcswh6dNvX9PTbJFohyphenhyphenS8IyzpM6MqeQtRTkF3gr1Ifz8o52IHWMLrgFxvEliEpaRZ1eOR2xrcuQil69eE/s640/blogger-image--581604126.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-41652030536108727442017-05-04T09:58:00.001-05:002017-05-04T09:59:18.513-05:00April showers, May flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-vridu3kwfCYUyYCts0DaUMUxDBiPicIFIXJ8VAuAnFVVP1wA87vWVPbNMY3bHSv2mPNsiSFmLNZ4arSDX7asuUupQmixlAsLN9EDVORMz-9Inxk8165603mYBpYN0p7Bd0l60CdXVk/s640/blogger-image-1220451464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0-vridu3kwfCYUyYCts0DaUMUxDBiPicIFIXJ8VAuAnFVVP1wA87vWVPbNMY3bHSv2mPNsiSFmLNZ4arSDX7asuUupQmixlAsLN9EDVORMz-9Inxk8165603mYBpYN0p7Bd0l60CdXVk/s640/blogger-image-1220451464.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBF3MYrfnZEYATIfJjtAM3qbcq0mI8LjYID1jIfJdg-z4EghzPTtQ5YTWCiXnuZthyS-zTHYcrzyqzPGz6ue1TSogKQKAxK0V4kP7JsPPLRix-6d6gTkm5_OK-VNN6TMplgk2bIP8iOQ/s640/blogger-image--354609647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBF3MYrfnZEYATIfJjtAM3qbcq0mI8LjYID1jIfJdg-z4EghzPTtQ5YTWCiXnuZthyS-zTHYcrzyqzPGz6ue1TSogKQKAxK0V4kP7JsPPLRix-6d6gTkm5_OK-VNN6TMplgk2bIP8iOQ/s640/blogger-image--354609647.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39cKu4TQOxNqIPrRl-hRE6H2VTtxuCf61jWDcbfb6TmzN1fqCtln_HsEpHocPgmFd72JxIzRQICw5OmO6iymk-xO8RlGw7wZJbzj_g0qstD5O-_ke5o1Hf7lyHUw2Rd9V3MeuXeV-xyU/s640/blogger-image--524430163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg39cKu4TQOxNqIPrRl-hRE6H2VTtxuCf61jWDcbfb6TmzN1fqCtln_HsEpHocPgmFd72JxIzRQICw5OmO6iymk-xO8RlGw7wZJbzj_g0qstD5O-_ke5o1Hf7lyHUw2Rd9V3MeuXeV-xyU/s640/blogger-image--524430163.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd6SoDD-iv_yg4fYfi6y6AaSPQ3oj7vTEZrBQlwbQop_84zn6H87W2Bh4w1_DxqMyfvpBxYFD5EfbWjaNcZcV3cRLQQbBHKuJ6CjisXF9SmAzQ4bx4s5rP2HpeLPfVauGutFeku3a_-NE/s640/blogger-image-1676769831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd6SoDD-iv_yg4fYfi6y6AaSPQ3oj7vTEZrBQlwbQop_84zn6H87W2Bh4w1_DxqMyfvpBxYFD5EfbWjaNcZcV3cRLQQbBHKuJ6CjisXF9SmAzQ4bx4s5rP2HpeLPfVauGutFeku3a_-NE/s640/blogger-image-1676769831.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDV3axztzegT1fBYu3S3pQjWtot2k7fZuQpv0E61TBGv9ZcXZMAIN9F0ffKBYFCmP2DgpcJ846SqIUvgQVau3CG-8VvhY6EIhnte7f6waQNPe92njlhOOYtj_o2r7tucP6y0suHdxSOE/s640/blogger-image-1502831734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUDV3axztzegT1fBYu3S3pQjWtot2k7fZuQpv0E61TBGv9ZcXZMAIN9F0ffKBYFCmP2DgpcJ846SqIUvgQVau3CG-8VvhY6EIhnte7f6waQNPe92njlhOOYtj_o2r7tucP6y0suHdxSOE/s640/blogger-image-1502831734.jpg"></a></div> Personally, I do not mind April showers one bit… Look at all the magic they create! Spring is one of my favorite times to walk and run around my neighborhood. Explosive color… So inspiring!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-27799915275926035662017-05-04T09:56:00.001-05:002017-05-04T09:59:32.807-05:00Staff meeting<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QXZn41MWd1yznzPRmLifFePjnD4qMQaQzm0v5hENNdi0C9fEQvE3BpMRaBNRVF9OyfoMfvj_2bgtz6hPPnRo4u8a8O5qHA9Yp04pDg2bMwcpOCnxdMeowgE5K9fsLRUe5cSkBa5iR9Y/s640/blogger-image-1970925585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QXZn41MWd1yznzPRmLifFePjnD4qMQaQzm0v5hENNdi0C9fEQvE3BpMRaBNRVF9OyfoMfvj_2bgtz6hPPnRo4u8a8O5qHA9Yp04pDg2bMwcpOCnxdMeowgE5K9fsLRUe5cSkBa5iR9Y/s640/blogger-image-1970925585.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Forget the water cooler, my coworkers are gathered around the heater! Another cool, gray, rainy day here in the Kansas City area. Personally, we love it and are not looking forward to the summer heat. Check out those fur coats!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-47662156810391260482017-05-04T09:55:00.001-05:002017-05-04T09:59:42.208-05:00Little help from my friend<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNzXtOWPgRIF8MuZovDNQntvu_B0SCU_-E38xeIHocEaYPOcFqt-BJhckW2ZW1L52dIOdS1EDhFRy4annt_Q0kV9zikSSu-R2FTPhN3gP6QmSpQIXtwLs1TsnfljczMYmYZZ7-xgAyUo/s640/blogger-image-91960476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNzXtOWPgRIF8MuZovDNQntvu_B0SCU_-E38xeIHocEaYPOcFqt-BJhckW2ZW1L52dIOdS1EDhFRy4annt_Q0kV9zikSSu-R2FTPhN3gP6QmSpQIXtwLs1TsnfljczMYmYZZ7-xgAyUo/s640/blogger-image-91960476.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> My studio assistant is "helping" me draw cats. She even offered to take over the pencil and show me how it's done.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-88678208765446485142017-04-29T11:15:00.001-05:002017-05-04T10:00:35.597-05:00Scuba Kiz<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryOeAy0uxFzl8loARp591W_VOp-q7ysRFb4f2v0kfGLkp8CSr0Koen6719EpkpMXMdJECJOOgvt5td21GirRNFukCi2wkXoTJYyJ2kTH3BBa4nZ5NhGtQtoDMGuejjBPLEPiLgxRPfMg/s640/blogger-image--875596459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryOeAy0uxFzl8loARp591W_VOp-q7ysRFb4f2v0kfGLkp8CSr0Koen6719EpkpMXMdJECJOOgvt5td21GirRNFukCi2wkXoTJYyJ2kTH3BBa4nZ5NhGtQtoDMGuejjBPLEPiLgxRPfMg/s640/blogger-image--875596459.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">Sketching my #Kismet the #kitty #scubadiving while my students are taking their final exam. Next up: jump in the pool!! It's raining like crazy - perfect day for #scubatraining ! </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"> </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-69350334279278955932017-04-28T19:08:00.002-05:002017-04-28T19:08:42.220-05:00Recommendation: Buttonwood Financial Group<div data-contents="true">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="9is80-0-0"><span data-text="true"> Sharing in case any of my friends need financial services. When I first started working with them nearly 10 years ago, I thought I'd primarily get investment help. I did, but I also got comprehensive guidance on insurance, budgeting, long-term planning, and much more.</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="8cj7l" data-offset-key="9hv6i-0-0">
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="f9pof-0-0"><span data-text="true"> These guys have steered me through SO many changes over the last couple of years, and helped me muster the confidence to start my own business. I seriously can't recommend them highly enough. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="46o98-0-0"><br data-text="true" /></span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="fajst-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="fajst-0-0"><span data-text="true">Buttonwood Financial Group, LLC</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="8cj7l" data-offset-key="dhs1h-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="dhs1h-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="_247o" data-offset-key="dhs1h-0-0" spellcheck="false"><span data-offset-key="dhs1h-0-0"><span data-text="true">Jon McGraw</span></span></span><span data-offset-key="dhs1h-1-0"><span data-text="true"> & John Jespersen</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="n6ca-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="n6ca-0-0"><span data-text="true">3013 Main Street</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="fp3ru-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="fp3ru-0-0"><span data-text="true">Kansas City, MO 64108</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="d3dqd-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="d3dqd-0-0"><span data-text="true">Phone: 800-448-9093 / 816-285-9000</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="fdqv8-0-0"><span data-text="true">Direct Phone: 816-285-9029</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2qmbc-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="2qmbc-0-0"><span data-text="true">Fax: 816-285-9001</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="j78t-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="j78t-0-0"><span data-text="true">www.ButtonwoodFG.com </span></span></span></div>
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="j78t-0-0">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="j78t-0-0"><span data-text="true"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span data-offset-key="d6j8u-0-0"><span data-text="true"> AND the whole office is an art gallery, open most First Fridays. They do some super impressive group shows. Artists, check 'em out—may be a good place to show/sell your work! www.ButtonwoodArtSpace.com </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-5720334509916390602017-04-28T09:10:00.001-05:002017-04-28T19:07:57.086-05:00Don't disappoint the Sheebs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCjHH6jovMh5jYAqkWrsWnUDh8ol19BZs9Ax3y30xxmT9RJWBYOc75OC2Kk58QWNhG7TTHP3IlfLGiY4tfbPX6ax5_vlKy0rYl7CncNRaQ0zQV1WDHNvQGmOcQqJa6iymIYgaKdvtPj7s/s640/blogger-image--14254748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCjHH6jovMh5jYAqkWrsWnUDh8ol19BZs9Ax3y30xxmT9RJWBYOc75OC2Kk58QWNhG7TTHP3IlfLGiY4tfbPX6ax5_vlKy0rYl7CncNRaQ0zQV1WDHNvQGmOcQqJa6iymIYgaKdvtPj7s/s400/blogger-image--14254748.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> We interrupt the Facebooks to bring you a very important message: we would love it if you would join us for the 30th anniversary of dog n jog on June 11, on the Plaza in Kansas City!</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Register today at http://www.hsgkc.org/events_dognjog.html</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-14419859693788169092017-04-21T12:57:00.001-05:002017-04-28T19:07:12.190-05:00Bad Apples<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
PSA: Apple had a run of bad graphics cards in their 2015 MacBooks. I've had three bad, brand-new-out-of-the-box laptops since January. I bought the older model hoping to avoid any potentially unknown issues with the 2016/17 models. But it seems that would've been a safer bet than a 2015.</div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
I'm sitting at the store now waiting to see how they're going to solve bad laptop #3 for me. </div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
If you have a 2015 MacBook and have screen flickering or display issues, document with video and get it to the show ASAP. The issues will worsen over time until your screen goes out. </div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
Update: the customer service at the Apple store in Leawood, KS has been outstanding. These guys really care, and are helping me out. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-72096964505658252422017-04-05T07:32:00.001-05:002017-04-07T11:23:11.072-05:00Concern<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5DtgJbuSxK3LRuug8iT7euc6pfXhA2t11n1sWmw5S8CR-OpT7SVTkRvjZa839FzxraHMHDuXJCawQ_vjTdstTl09YKZprN4zTXV4KQeoS9eMOs72L9wnsgF7NqX-ub32peJxauJnwZU/s640/blogger-image-1937596401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5DtgJbuSxK3LRuug8iT7euc6pfXhA2t11n1sWmw5S8CR-OpT7SVTkRvjZa839FzxraHMHDuXJCawQ_vjTdstTl09YKZprN4zTXV4KQeoS9eMOs72L9wnsgF7NqX-ub32peJxauJnwZU/s400/blogger-image-1937596401.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "helvetica"; font-size: 12px;">This is hard to say. I have strong reason to believe my dear Taylor, who is 10 years old, has Cushing's Syndrome. I will get blood work from the vet to diagnose, but he has all the symptoms (they could also point to diabetes, and kidney failure). Scary stuff!</span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Taylor is obsessed with water and drinks excessively—and has had accidents in the house regularly for the past few weeks. Plus excessive appetite, panting, and some muscle weakness (legs shivering after a walk). He has a ton of energy for an older dog. 9 times out of 10, when people ask me how old he is and I answer, "Ten," their follow up question is, "Months?" He looks—and acts—like a young dog.</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> I'm very upset and concerned for my boy. I don't have any experience with Cushing's, and I know learning about it will help ease my worry, so… if anyone reading this has had a dog with Cushing's, could you please share medications, diet, or other tips that can help control symptoms? Learning more about the prognosis is helping me not freak out, and I still have a few hours before that vet appointment to diagnose.</span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> PS: Yes, that's an acorn on his head. During a 9 mile walk last weekend. I love my MSIR dogs to pieces and hope he will be OK for many more years. I enjoy them so much that I rarely think about losing them, focusing on the everyday joy. Unfortunately loss comes with the territory too. And this faithful guy is my daily walking companion—there will be a HUGE piece of my heart that goes with him, someday. I pray that day is a long way off!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> 4/6 update: A little good news... urine test ruled out diabetes & kidney failure. Blood results by tomorrow morning. Cushing's and liver trouble are my biggest worries now. (Diabetes insipidus and psychogenic drinking possible, but uncommon.)</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica"; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> SO grateful that my guy is in great spirits -- no pain apparent. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> 4/7 update: </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span> <span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span>Blood
work was normal. Vet said he'd be thrilled if his 10-year-old dog had
blood work like this. But that does mean we still don't have an answer.</span><span> </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><span><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span> Could be leptospirosis, diabetes insipidus, psychogenic drinking, or a small chance it could still be Cushing's. </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><span><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span> </span><span>Over
the next few days I'm going to measure exactly how much water he's
drinking, so I have to separate him from my other dog. Then we will try a
water deprivation experiment. </span><span> </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><span><span data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="UFICommentBody"><span> So very thankful for all the things we now know it isn't!</span></span></span></span></span> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-10277395959563732282017-04-03T22:12:00.001-05:002017-04-05T19:53:47.463-05:00Shakshuka<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5t0oLa2CtEU3YFfvDs03MHpIYtcPwZqUdnSu2VjYbb2oIIoYDyZ5pikEy_Lkoz-qQe0Hlf8Nf_JbfgQFHdpc0XxhoWKpvWj1xwuOL_2Z4ugP1NiSnW61eePxyqGe-ANdC_Tfjds-e3I/s640/blogger-image-625964573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5t0oLa2CtEU3YFfvDs03MHpIYtcPwZqUdnSu2VjYbb2oIIoYDyZ5pikEy_Lkoz-qQe0Hlf8Nf_JbfgQFHdpc0XxhoWKpvWj1xwuOL_2Z4ugP1NiSnW61eePxyqGe-ANdC_Tfjds-e3I/s640/blogger-image-625964573.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Allyson, you inspired me to try making shakshuka. SO GOOD!! This recipe is a winner: http://toriavey.com/toris-kitchen/2010/07/summer-2010-travel-blog-shakshuka/</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And, now I'm curious to go to an Israeli restaurant to see what it's supposed to taste like!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihbHOpbD0gJRgZavb4I3GdFJl8EwNc2wEWCuyX7fM5YqWex9jp8Epnl1IULSgJUH3_MKWXSiD8EfV36FYq7U_OUMiQXNXqEIpeQR4PBMeGBXCvoQQ_ssHdbNl3LUgyWY5DdMeyHB-B9Q/s640/blogger-image--392853924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihbHOpbD0gJRgZavb4I3GdFJl8EwNc2wEWCuyX7fM5YqWex9jp8Epnl1IULSgJUH3_MKWXSiD8EfV36FYq7U_OUMiQXNXqEIpeQR4PBMeGBXCvoQQ_ssHdbNl3LUgyWY5DdMeyHB-B9Q/s640/blogger-image--392853924.jpg"></a></div><br><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8A7yCDJ157u8QKdhZfqKaFUqGyBqkVWLkxxQYCMsGgnHSBIARANBLefGV0Oq5ZaOHcVdGJim6hxr2vdE8EIecBRHA-UaDpEjnTMstWnQvMYxsZSGdVhF2kZKmParWHfZgodqadTqbID8/s640/blogger-image--1026892447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8A7yCDJ157u8QKdhZfqKaFUqGyBqkVWLkxxQYCMsGgnHSBIARANBLefGV0Oq5ZaOHcVdGJim6hxr2vdE8EIecBRHA-UaDpEjnTMstWnQvMYxsZSGdVhF2kZKmParWHfZgodqadTqbID8/s640/blogger-image--1026892447.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-7064673307678294712017-03-28T22:21:00.002-05:002017-03-28T22:21:56.253-05:00Great Omen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNdbJ8IZL2BDZNqKQElyxOtJ_VlJ_s1gdCuF5ohRSZnkxJFHeLNmb0Fh2MdXDMUl0NOr8eeB4kzdCK0YOULx6yUmQbjtlBGZyVmPD9yU-6FCvqbaxumKafzAF0aq75urdHeCDvpQqNtQ/s1600/owl.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNdbJ8IZL2BDZNqKQElyxOtJ_VlJ_s1gdCuF5ohRSZnkxJFHeLNmb0Fh2MdXDMUl0NOr8eeB4kzdCK0YOULx6yUmQbjtlBGZyVmPD9yU-6FCvqbaxumKafzAF0aq75urdHeCDvpQqNtQ/s320/owl.png" width="262" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I've been working realllllly hard on a project all week, and tonight at 6:15 I decided it was break time. The dogs were thrilled to walk (even if it meant putting off dinner!), and we started out the front door like we do everyday. But I decided we should drive to South Lake Park instead, to change up our routine. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> We had just finished our first loop around the lake when a couple, whispering, got my attention and pointed way up in a tree. A large silhouette... a great horned owl! The man handed me his binoculars so I could get a better look. Wow! I've seen barred owls in our 'hood (makes me laugh because I used to think they were "bard" owls). But this was a real treat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> So the couple joined the dogs and me as we walked, talking about the great blue herons, green herons, and white crested night herons we've seen at the lake—and turtles, catfish, and goldfish as well. We were certainly birds of a feather.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Then the woman, Jane, mentioned that they were out of the county for October last year, and how surprised she was that the oak mites were still around when they returned in November. Gone for a month? That's the part I wanted to hear!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Turns out Henry is an attorney—and art lover. They traveled to France, Italy, and the Netherlands to see art museums, and then visited his family in Germany. Suddenly that owl wasn't the most interesting thing today... I have family in Germany, and I'm an artist!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> When I shared that tidbit, Jane perked up—she's a volunteer for <a href="http://www.peaceworkskc.org/" target="_blank">PeaceWorks KC</a>, and they're seeking artists to show at the Unplaza art fair in September! My petsitter shows there, and Jane though she remembered Mary Ann's work.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> To sum up, a very interesting conversation—it truly is a small world! When we finished our walk, I gave Jane my card so she can stay in touch. Always nice to meet neighbors and a kindred spirits as well! A cool conversation that all started with an owl.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7581775978585144683.post-77571705531410755622017-03-25T15:25:00.005-05:002017-03-28T21:55:43.560-05:00Catch and Release<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwsdXZ5_P6q3Z1jLmSvuBGAQTgen2kqeLI4YVzt3xrl8pYW6C5FGsRH75-FZvXWw9stx4hPVM4cAGu3ciPmRdOiaHOZX0zaYJ913Q2knk71lUKSY1wTCxp5pehcSzt4hWJoMlvq7nbcg/s640/blogger-image-992832891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwsdXZ5_P6q3Z1jLmSvuBGAQTgen2kqeLI4YVzt3xrl8pYW6C5FGsRH75-FZvXWw9stx4hPVM4cAGu3ciPmRdOiaHOZX0zaYJ913Q2knk71lUKSY1wTCxp5pehcSzt4hWJoMlvq7nbcg/s640/blogger-image-992832891.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> I'd be lying if I said that I didn't think they were really d@mn cute, but they certainly don't belong in my home! My animals succe<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">eded at finding but </span>failed at capturing this one, and I was able to grab it by the tail, drop it in a wastebasket, and driv<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e it</span> up the street to the park to release it back into the wild. Welcome to the Rarey Catch and Rel<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ease <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pr<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ogram.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_EUnR6gbdyng564c9mFk8gy8QeXsisDE54NZXzIYlYGPRqybbmbHn1jpCHRnXSmEbAAUklRpyPKuCeKmXPYjswKj1-6gweoRB8dTphTfs_OCndpC5qhox7KONOeS-NE_-4UCpIqzoqk/s640/blogger-image-549179151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4_EUnR6gbdyng564c9mFk8gy8QeXsisDE54NZXzIYlYGPRqybbmbHn1jpCHRnXSmEbAAUklRpyPKuCeKmXPYjswKj1-6gweoRB8dTphTfs_OCndpC5qhox7KONOeS-NE_-4UCpIqzoqk/s400/blogger-image-549179151.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NO<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">W STAY OUTT<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A MY HOUSE, MOUSE!!!</span></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15563854359736464309noreply@blogger.com0