Adventures of Paul and Cheri

Happy New Year to Us All!

2012-01-02T12:13:00.000-05:00

We certainly hope you are all ready for this new year! I seem to have sincere trepidation for this one. With all the craziness in the universe last year, looking forward knowing it will amplify makes me a bit anxious. So, I've determined I must remain BUSY, faithful and focused.

Paul and I have many goals and plans and ideas, as always. But I want to review last year on this post and save goals for the next one.

We brought in 2011 with a little visitor.

January went on with itself and all was well. Paul and I began taking pottery class with our great friend Patti Connor Greene and LOVED every minute of it! We made some very sweet new friends and have learned our way around the Senior Center Now! :-)

Ms. Patti teaches her passion!

Our classes ended in October, but we hope to be able to get back into the self study program this month. We miss it, and practice makes perfect!

February taught us about believing in Miracles ... as did March and April. It was a terrifying lesson at first, but as the lesson moved forward, it became something to shout from the mountain tops. But I just want to tell you in all honesty, this rocked our world and changed our souls. For. Real.

Christian went from this scene in February ...

to this at Easter (hiking and climbing the hills w/ Paul Paul). A regular little boy doing regular little boy things. Still a huge thing to wrap my head around. And the only way to really KNOW is to BELIEVE in the miracle. A precious, beautiful, one-of-a-kind miracle.

We learned a lot about believing, saying grace, and living with a blessing we can always touch. NO way to express how that molded our year ... just no way.

Unfortunately, my sweet boss and friend, Hugh lost his battle with leukemia in March. I miss him GREATLY. He still is an example to me in being kind to EVERYONE. He was an incredible ambassador and a one-of-a-kind man.

Hugh Fields and his beautiful daughter, Sarah Whitfield.

My very sweet and precious friend Teresa also lost her precious husband, Britt this same month. It was a very sad and unsettled time. I do not like to see my friends with broken hearts. Healing has begun, but oh, so slowly.

Rest Peacefully, sweet friends.

Paul got a new job in March (another HUGE blessing) at Linville Resorts on the golf course maintenance crew ...

And Nina came up in March to run a 10K with her dad! They had a wonderful time and Nina won! LOVE IT!! Girl Power, Go Nina!

Jenn, Victor and Christian came up for Easter and it was our first time visiting with them here in ages.

Red head Girls' night on the veranda began around May ... so lovely to have a bunch of wonderful women sitting outside enjoying food, wine, and each other's company. Can't wait for that to begin again! Paul began working on the catering crew at the Lodge, so he was now working 2 jobs.

June was the beginning of a string of Art Shows for Clayzaics. The first one at Roan Mountain got rained out in a BIG way. But it was fun while it lasted!

I began taking a photography course at a local community college and fell in love with all photography has to offer! Going back to school was certainly interesting! Old brain kicked in and made me proud!

Nina came up for her 25th birthday in July. Here she is with her dad. Two peas in a pod, I tell ya! July was filled with making new art for me ... lots of art shows to prepare for!!

August brought more birthdays (Mark, for one) and another art show at Mt. Mitchell. It was a great show and we had a wonderful time!

Christian also had a birthday in August - his 8th. How many times do you think we said our thank yous for having him here? (No one can't count that high)

I also was in the right place at the right time and scored a MacBook!!! Oh.my.gosh. Best thing EVER!

September brought another birthday, Janine's! I know a ton of other things happened in September but this was my particular favorite thing! I was also preparing for yet another art show, so our time was very occupied with Paul working at the Club, two different jobs now ... and me getting ready for shows, going to school, and hanging at the antique shop. We had a lovely time and somehow the trauma of the first quarter of the year began melting just a little bit. We took a trip to Atlanta to celebrate all the little lives that had been saved by the ECMO process at the Children's Hospital. And for the first time in ages, I had both of my children in the same place at the same time. THAT is a very unusual thing considering their busy, crazy lives. We got to visit my sweet friend Teresa and she was kind enough to host our visit. It began the busiest part of our year!

Women are such wonderful people. This is kind of the core group of veranda women, with Ms. Edie missing, unfortunately. Anyway, the summer was filled with lovely girls' night memories. And when there is a birthday, it's just an enhanced reason to be celebrating life!

October brought yet another art show (last and BEST of the season) and more birthdays (Paul's). Paul began working in the Christmas tree field and things began gearing up for another season of the year. I began spending more time at the Rusted Periwinkle and we got super busy somehow? AND I was able to get a DSLR camera so I could continue with my photography education! Oh Yeah!

My Nikon D5100. In love.

Paul's English Pasties for his birthday dinner! He LOVES these things with curry sauce on them.

Unicoi Arts Festival .... MUCH fun! I'm tickled when I look at this photo to see how many of my pieces have sold. Makes me feel like I have accomplished at least a little something!

Teresa visited us and we took a glorious hike up on Roan Mountain! It was the first opportunity for me to use my new camera. Wonderful day, 100%.

And Paul is the proud owner of a 1967 Vespa (Allstate) at long last. He is one happy, smitten camper with this baby, whose name is Sofia.

November brought more "tractoring", a two part Thanksgiving, more fun and healing; and a preparation for Christmas.

And December brought us beautiful weather (thank you, Mother Nature) and Paul's working the "cut and choose" lots at Christa's and Sam's ... my preparing for Christmas and getting things just right for Christian's visit.

I have given the highlights as I see them here. For details, please review the earlier posts on this blog and on the artsymatilda blog. Our lives are full, blessed and precious to us. We hope that yours are for you and yours, as well.

And we wish you all a very HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Happy Trails to you all.

Paul and Cheri

Coming soon ...

2011-11-29T18:02:00.000-05:00

I have just received a bit of a finger wagging review from Paul because this blog has been neglected. Hmmm ...

I have been posting a blog post everyday through the month of November over here. You are invited and certainly welcome to catch up with us there. It is my art blog, but it has personal snippets and information for you. And Paul has been posting on his scooter blog right here. He's a wonderfully entertaining writer. Please visit his site!

I have two more days of "30 blogs in 30 days" at artsymatilda.com. I'll be back after I finish over there (and maybe take a small break)!

We have to decorate, as we are expecting family for Christmas. And we have to make presents, wrap them, and etc., etc., etc. It's exciting, exhilarating and exhausting! Be back soon!

*** Oh, and it's snowing! ***

Happy Trails to all!

Paul and Cheri

Then and Now

2011-10-02T22:37:00.000-04:00

Our Christian and his Paul Paul. They don't always see eye-to-eye, but they are ALWAYS up for a good time together. The first photo was 2007 I do believe. The second photo was taken last weekend. Those of you who know the story know the second picture is a miracle. We went to Atlanta last weekend to see all the little miracles who have recovered as Christian has. It was magical. IT was an amazing opportunity. IT was wonderful to say thank you to Dr. Fortenberry. IT was great to see all the children with the ECMO name tags on. All the little miracle bubbles. Wow!

What are you doing, Paul Paul?

Dr. Fortenberry, Chief of ECMO since 1992. A blessing for us.

Just visiting with others.

Priceless, precious & proud of it!

The Hall Family

Christian and his angel visitor while he was still sleeping. This gal, Gwen, was also an ECMO patient when she was 11. She is now 14 and a lovely young lady. She wants to be in the industry as an ECMO technician when she gets through with school. Her dad became a minister as a result of the miracle he witnessed during Gwen's illness and recovery. There are some very wonderful stories to hear at these reunions. I had the chills more than once.

Christian and Paul Paul had the same tattoo, but Paul Paul's was green.

The garden was decorated so colorfully --- kind of an Asian theme with Asian lanterns and such .. but these were the colors, bright and fun! The day was absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Meant to be.

A whole flock of docs and nurses who took care of Christian. These folks are the technicians who monitor all that scary equipment. They are very talented and serious about what they do. They are blessings to us all. We said thank you a lot.

A boy headbutting his granddaddy in the tummy ... you know.


Christian --- healed and pretty much a normal 8 year old boy.	We are grateful.

This post will likely be in 3 parts. This is part one. Part two will be the rehab reunion; yet another fun and amazing celebration. I just feel like I need to say there is no way to express how very emotional all this has been. And now we are basically able to mark the end of the whole experience. And the relief is amazing. But going back to the hospital was very real. Jennifer and I went up to the PICU unit to deliver the thank you birds. It was heart stopping and tear producing to enter that zone again. And I just wanted to go hug every single person sitting in the waiting room with the pain and angst on their faces. I wanted them all to be in our shoes, celebrating the miracles. And I hope we see them all there next year!

And that's it for installment one!

Incidentally, we have had Paul's 50th birthday, a few unbelievably ridiculous hurdles to clear (stories later) and I'm in the middle of preparing for next weekend's art show. So please forgive our gaps in posting. I promise we will be appearing more often sooner than you can stand it.

Happy Trails to you all!

Paul and Cheri

Miracles!

2011-09-22T00:14:00.001-04:00

Please forgive our unscheduled, unannounced blog sabbatical! We've had a lot going on. Some newsworthy, some not so much. But we haven't had enough spare time to write or put up photos until now.

So, not necessarily in chronological order, but here none the less, are the happenings of late.

This is our friend (and Paul's "bro") Mark with two of his beautiful daughters last July on his birthday. Emily, the youngest of the of girls, is on left and Taylor is on the right. Emily is a senior in high school and making great strides down culinary pathways. Taylor, on the right, is the oldest of the sisters, and is a multi-talented young woman herself. Emily had an unfortunate accident this week. An automobile accident of epic proportion, to be precise. She even got to ride in a helicopter to the hospital! Now, Emily is healing and taking it easy. She has a fractured pelvis, but the integrity of the hip joint is still intact. She has a few fractured ribs and a bruised lung. She has a jaw fracture which has put the whole culinary thing on hold for a little bit. Two short days ago Emily was a "life flight" passenger, and from what I hear today she was sitting in a chair having a smoothie! Oh youth adored! She will require a surgical procedure on Wednesday of next week to repair her mandible, and she will be on crutches for a little while so her pelvis can heal, but her recovery should be complete and she is alive. And let me just say right here, LIFE IS GOOD! Now, if you didn't believe in miracles before you read this - believe in them now!! As I understand it, Emily's car was hit broad side on the driver's side by a pick up truck pulling a cattle trailer with a bull on board. I don't know any of the details about who did what, but that is a lot of weight to run into a little Colt (I think) automobile at over 45 mph! I hope my account is at least semi accurate. Ms. Emily has an angel on her shoulder. Thankfully! Please send some good thoughts her way as she heals and faces the surgery ahead. And please keep Mark & Janine and the family in your thoughts and prayers as they help Emily heal and they too recover from their own shock and surprise and concern and all things that come along with this kind of thing.

This young man is another miracle! Christian, our EIGHT year old grandson!

You gotta love stories with happy endings!

We are going to the ECMO reunion this weekend down in Atlanta. I cannot wait to give all those doctors and nurses a big fat thank you! It will be so wonderful to see all the children who have benefited from the ECMO department. I bet it'll be amazing! I will, of course, keep you posted!

(for those of you who don't know what ECMO is: it's the lung bypass machinery and procedure they use to keep someone alive who is having lung issues. I don't remember what the acronym stands for and I'm quite sure I couldn't spell it even if I did know!)

Paul and I made a bunch of these little bird key chains as a thank you token from Christian, ECMO patient number 801, to the doctors and nurses on his team. It always tickles me to see Paul's big hands molding and sculpting things as intricate and tiny and these birds. And then wrapping the teeny tiny wire around itself. He's amazing.

Speaking of the amazing Paul, here is his very first ever "thrown" bowl. It is impeccably thrown, even, and all that. I am so jealous! Oh well, someone had to do it! And by the way, the bowl is actually yellow, not pink. But my oh my, how many new things I can come up with now that I'm photography educated (HAHA).

Today I heard from Pennisu in Orlando. She sounds GREAT and it was so good to hear from her. I also had a shout out from Katie the wine rep on Facebook, which was a lovely surprise. And I got an email from Ruthie updating us on her fun antics! I LOVE hearing from people! Thanks, ladies! You've made my week!

I went on a field trip with my beginning digital photography class. We've been trying to go on some more "shoots", but the weather has been uncooperative. That is a sign of the season to come, I suppose. I will just try to enjoy what I can. I've learned gobs ... that's the best part! Well, that and meeting my instructor, Todd Bush. check out his amazing work here. He's a wonderful photographer, and many other things (i.e, Tai Chi Master, Yoga instructor, and fellow hiker). It's amazing where you run into folks, eh?

Sweet Paul is doing well. He works at the golf course maintaining the greens from 6 AM til 3ish PM. But they are winding down for the season ... and with the rain, he gets to come home and rest sometimes! Delightful. Sunday was his first day off in ages. He stayed dressed just like this the whole day! So cute. He's still bartending weekend nights and some brunches. It's a busy schedule sometimes, but he's loving it. Now soccer has begun so Tuesday and Thursday evenings he is refereeing little folks. Well, young folks, under 10 and under 12. He's loving it yet again. Such a good sport I'd say. He's a tad sad as his VESPA has a flat tire. But we will remedy that in Atlanta this weekend, so he'll smile a little again then, I'm sure.

Shannon and I have a show coming up the weekend of October 7 & 8. The Unicoi Apple Festival in Erwin, TN. I feel like the mad hatter. This piece is far from finished, but I wanted to share the vintage look and the "offset" format. I'll post the finished piece too, of course! But it certainly feels good to be working and creating and having fun! Hope all of you are having some sort of fun!

That's about all I have to add to our little adventure right now!
Happy Trails!
Paul and Cheri

2011-09-07T21:49:00.000-04:00

Yes, I know it's been a while since I've posted on this site. Yes, we've been busy. Yes, we're fine. No, I don't even know where to start to catch up. So ...

Paul has been riding his VESPA so hard that it now needs new points and some TLC to get it back up to par. He is smitten I tell ya! He spends an incredible amount of time researching scooters, scooter clubs, scooter paint jobs, basically all things scooters. I imagine there will be a completely redesigned scooter sooner than later. I'm still waiting for his post on the matter ... aren't you?

Paul has been working in the mornings on the maintenance crew at the golf course. Then on the weekends he has been bar tending for various events such as weddings, private celebratory type parties and Sunday brunches. He's been one busy boy. I woke him on Sunday and he didn't know what day it was, what time of day it was, or what he was supposed to do when he woke up. Poor guy!

I have been doing the art thing, going to school for photography classes, attending some "how to" workshops for art business, even attended an art show opening that was a blast. The big thing is, I redid the studio ---- new paint, new organization, new clean space --- HEAVEN! To update on my doings, visit here. I update the art site more often than this one these days.

Our kids are all fine! Gosh it feels great to write that with confidence. Christian's ECMO reunion is coming up and we plan to attend. I can't wait to see all the little miracles walking around right here on earth! There are so many things to be grateful for.

Our building project is kind of stalled right now, once again. I have my fingers crossed that the weather will let us pick up the pace once we get dried out! It would be lovely to have the building up for the winter's work to come. Paul could weld and we could bake clay in the kiln ... oh, the dreams! Trying to keep the positive energy flowing . . . feel free to join in!

It's cold ... about 64 degrees in the kitchen. Going to be a lovely fall though. I have plans to stay warmly dressed, already! The trees are beginning to change into beautiful colors. Won't be long until we will have "leaf lookers" traveling through Elk Park. It will be nice for the antique store business, but it does signify the beginning of a new season ... the cold one! Ugh! Well, I will think about that another day. (Scarlet here)

Paul's nephew, Hayden just celebrated his birthday last Saturday. Happy Birthday Hayden! Hayden is a hockey player and pretty much goes all over the U.S. playing hockey, thanks to his mom Janet. Hope you had a great day, Hayden.

Paul begins reffing soccer next Tuesday. We're looking forward to it. It's always fun to watch the little uns, who he will be reffing. Perfect entertainment! :-)

Well, now you're all caught up on us! How about letting us in on you????

Happy Trails!

Paul and Cheri

It's August!

2011-08-18T14:24:00.000-04:00

I just can't keep up! It seems like we are going double time through summer. It's sad because I LOVE this warmer time and am dreading going into the winter. We can definitely feel fall in the air up here. It's been in the 50's at night! I'm not ready, but it's here any way. *Sigh.* See the changing of the leaves? I do love autumn, just wish it went in to spring! Wouldn't that be interesting? HA!

There have been some fun things happening though. For those of you who read the Artsymatilda.com site, some of these things will be repetitive. But if you haven't yet read it, here's some of the new things in our lives.

Employee appreciation dinner at Linville for the guys who keep the golf course maintained.

Best crew ever, I hear!

Golf course maintenance guys golf tournament.

What a crew, huh?

We bought an antique potter's wheel ... lots of fun and very challenging! It totally works and gives us a fun time ... we laugh and frown a lot ... even stick our tongues out trying to make it work.

I think this beauty has seen some years! She has a numbered plate of 4, so that's her name. Meet Four!

My very first thrown pot ever. Paul's is much nicer, but I don't have a picture of it right now, sorry. Next time! We are experimenting with different clays and such. It is very hard to work the treadle and the clay at the same time ... this wheel is foot/leg powered, not electricity. Great test in multi tasking! Not to mention perseverance and determination!

This guy is a pretty happy fella most days. Summer seems to make him happy too!

This came to live with us in honor of a certain some one's 50th birthday on October 1st. But I promised to let him blog about it on his blog. So ... when he gets around to that, you'll know everything about it! I just want to say that when you are riding on this scooter, it makes you giggle out loud! When Paul is on it he grins from ear to ear non stop. It's proving to be very good for the soul. Who knew!?!

The grandchildren have all started back to school. A bunch of my dancer friends on facebook have gone away to college and their moms and dads are going through the emotions of all of that. The circle just keeps on circling. Guess we can't ask for more than that?!?

Happy Trails to all!

Paul and Cheri

Where to begin?

2011-08-08T22:25:00.000-04:00

The sunflowers are in full bloom now

The neighbors are having plenty of baby goats

Mark & Janine still have the best view in the High Country. Isn't it gorgeous in the summer? WOW!

Spartacus!

Artemis!

And Sulu!

All the boys are doing just fine and enjoying the warm weather.

This girl came up to hang out with her dad --- they built some corn hole game boards and continued to stay occupied... and then some!

And Nina celebrated her 25th birthday while she was here ...

This young man turned EIGHT years old on August 6th! His mom and dad took him to the NIC Hotel with a buddy of his! Lucky little boy, eh? Happy Birthday, Christian Hall! We love you.

We had an art show in Burnsville, NC at the Mt. Mitchell Crafts Festival and we honestly sold stuff! It was awesome! And I am newly excited!

I now officially look like my mom. WHEN did that happen?

Our building is progressing ... this is the way we left it. I'll post after this week, the new look!

This sweet lady, Debbie stayed with us whilst doing an art show in Banner Elk. What a lovely house guest! She is definitely invited back!

Mark had a birthday! Here are the brothers ... aren't they adorable?

They played corn hole - BIG surprise!

NOW, you're all caught up!

Although I'm quite sure there are more details to unfold for you.

I LOVE summer!

Happy Trails!

Paul and Cheri

Did you know??

2011-08-03T08:44:00.000-04:00

Did you know that a seven year old boy can fill your heart with joy to the edge of bursting?

We just had Christian here for 9 days! He represented the final guest in a 3rd week of house guests for the Glover house. Now, we get ready for the art show in two (GULP!) days. There is a lot happening, and we have a lot to catch you up on. But we will save it for the next post, as there is little time to spare as we enjoy the warm weather, celebrate the miracle of life, and get ready for all the next phases we are anticipating!

Happy Trails to you all!

Paul and Cheri

Off and running .....

2011-07-20T08:52:00.001-04:00

We've had a house guest around here ....

NINA ... turned 25 on Saturday! So, of course we had a bit of a birthday dinner ...

Black and white sesame encrusted sashimi tuna by Chef Mark

Daddy's little girl ...

matching dimples :-)

Nuts, I tell you!

The beautiful Janine with the Nut Job, Paul.

The rest of the spread ... fruit salad, green salad, steamed green beans, butter and parsley potatoes, curried chicken salad with croissants.

And the boys .... !!! Sir Paul & Chef Mark

Red Velvet cake with to-die-for cream icing ...

And, yes, she managed to blow out ALL the candles!

And because Mark's 52nd birthday is next Monday, we were conserving the candle purchasing and honoring his big day! We had fun, even if we are old fogies. Nina giggled ... a lot. It was a good day for all of us.

Nina and I managed to visit a great art show. (see http://www.artsymatilda.com/ for our day!) We also lunched at the Owl and the Monkey in Banner Elk. It's a new veggie restaurant and it was quite good. Give it a try if you're in Banner Elk! It's right next door to where the theater used to be on the side street by the Post Office. We have seen Harry Potter (Nina is a HUGE ~ understatement ~ Potter fan), we've eaten sushi at Miso in Johnson City. We played spades one night and I WON! (First time E.V.E.R. and I am SO proud!) Nina and her dad have played tennis, golfed, shopped at thrift and antique stores, helped move stuff around in the shoppe, helped moved stuff around in the Glover House, and have had all kinds of ridiculous and other types of discussions. Those two are making corn hole game boards and bean bags now. Paul has been mourning the loss of the corn hole game since our neighbors moved out last August. SO ... as you can tell, lots of activity and bustling around here! We've been having dinner on the veranda because it's cooler outside than inside in the evening. Summer! AHHHHHHHH. *LOVE*

I love this photo:

It looks more fun in person ... our friend, hairdresser and housekeeper, Beckye has this green bug. She parks it by Paul's green Saab. It stops traffic on our street - literally! (small town, you know) FUN!

Nina has to go home on Thursday. Our Christian arrives Friday. Then our play list for the next week will look entirely different, I'm sure. However, we will be celebrating yet another birthday. Mark turns 52 on Monday, which we will celebrate on Sunday I bet. Christian will be turning 8 years old! His birthday is actually August 6, but we will celebrate here before he leaves. Can't wait! Bet we don't have red velvet cake for this one! HAHA!

I'm still volunteering at the weaving room on the Crossnore School campus. It is great! And it keeps me around weaving so I won't forget how to do it! I'm still in progress on painting the furniture in the bathroom. I will certainly post it when I finally finish the task. Chalk Paint is awesome, in case you don't know. There is a photo of the beginning of the project on the artsymatilda site. Amazing stuff, I tell you!

Wrapping it up for now. Too much to do to continue babbling on! Have two shows coming up and company continuously this month! Wwwwwwwwwweeeeeeeeeeee!!!!

Happy Trails!

Paul and Cheri

Amendment to Paul's Pottery

2011-07-11T14:37:00.000-04:00

Apparently Sir Paul had an exclusive determination for this teapot that I was not aware of ... therefore, let me correct this post haste.

This side is for tea with cinnamon rolls

And this side is for tea with pie :-)

And now you know!

Cheers!

Paul (written by Cheri)

Paul's Pottery

2011-07-08T22:17:00.000-04:00

Our teacher (Patti Conner Greene) says pottery, as it stands, has not changed in about 10,000 years. That is, until Paul began pottery. His creations are clever, unique, unusual and fabulous. Here are a couple of his newer pieces. FABULOUS!

Hand built tea pot.

And some of the more unique creations from Paul ...

A scuba diving fish! Brilliant!

A box tortoise! such detail!

So, now you know about Paul's pottery! Right now with his work schedule he only gets to attend class every other week. It's not as much fun in the class without him ... and the ladies who we take class with (and the one fella) miss him always and ask about him without fail. Paul's work is proof positive that the outcome of a 10,000 year old tradition can be approached from all directions!

As for me, I am in the "same ole, same ole" category. But I have fun and enjoy the whimsy of no boundaries. In all my years as a dancer, there was only one RIGHT way to do anything. Now my instructor is constantly saying "it's really up to you", "you can do it anyway you'd like" ... stuff like that. It's freeing in a way I've never known in art! And it has seriously broadened my horizons! Thanks, Patti!

There are a go-zillion things going on around here ... we are busy with life. It's lovely. As far as I know, our kids and their kids are fine. Everyone is healthy. Everyone has work and a home with transportation and food and faith. The cats are all healthy ... there are brand new baby goats in the field next door (gosh, they are CUTE!) The flowers are blooming and the weather is typically summer here, with sun and rain and mist and fog. There are cherries on the trees! The garden is coming along and we should have some things to harvest soon. The high country mountains are crawling with tourists this weekend as the Highland Games are here. It is a much anticipated event and the county needs the revenue. So we just kind of stay in our little corner and say grace for every one's opportunity at making some money!

Mark and Janine were kind enough to donate this massive umbrella to the Glover House and we are thrilled to have it! Now I will need to mosaic the table top so we can do the umbrella proud!

Nina arrives Thursday coming up! It will be delightful to have her around. I'm continuing to work on inventory for the upcoming art shows. We are adding another lady to the Clayzaics roster and there will be an update on that on the artsymatilda.com site this weekend. We are trying our very best to move forward with the building on the side of our house. It will be wonderful to finally get that accomplished.

We're all good. I can't say enough to give you a hint as to our countless blessings. Life is good!

Happy Trails!

Paul and Cheri

Ever seen one of these?

2011-06-30T22:48:00.000-04:00

The bird, that is! She is a partial albino red tailed hawk! Isn't she absolutely beautiful? Her name is Cloudfeather, of course! And she resides at the habitat at Lees McRae. This fella gave us all the scoop tonight at the farmers market. The young man is majoring in wild life rescue/rehab through some variety of biology. It was truly peaceful to stand in her "bubble" and have her silently acknowledge our presence. Very sweet!

The Glover House is filled with color and flowers at long last! Delightful! I have a lot of pictures to download but Picasa won't cooperate tonight and I'm too tired to persevere, so this is it for now!

For those of you who don't already know, most of my blogging has been going on right here at the artsymatilda site. It's been mostly art based in nature, but there are snippets of other life in there too. It's not easy to keep up 2 blogs! So please feel free to check out the other site when this one stays dormant for too long!

Happy 4th of July to one and all!

Cheers!

Paul and Cheri

SUMMER - at long last!

2011-06-23T22:32:00.000-04:00

LOVE

SUMMER

My goodness, it feels so good to look outside and see colors! I put as many colors around here as possible and they are making us smile and feel happy! Ahhhhhhh, summer :-)

I know I have not posted in ages. We've been time deprived. Every moment seems to be spoken for. And then when a spare moment comes along we find ourselves sleeping (napping, we call it) and trying to recharge our batteries. We are also a little bit energy deprived!

First of all, Paul is working a physically demanding job that starts with his waking up at 4:30 AM! Then often he works as a bartender in the evenings. So for him it is like working first and third shift. It's hard to work this pace when you aren't in your twenties any more!

I work at the Rusted Periwinkle a couple of days per week. I'm volunteering at the weaving room in Crossnore and doing the best to keep up with laundry and the house and cooking and making Paul's meals. Also Shannon and I are very busy trying to get the art thing going. For most of everything I have been doing you can go here. (the art blog) There are lots of tidbits about the shows and etc., plus some details about the weaving endeavor and a few personal things.

We try to visit our local farmer's market friends weekly.

This is Abi and her son Finn from the Hen's Tooth Farm.

Amos and Kaci from Trosley Farm right here in Elk Park --- great farm dinners fyi

Shannon selling her mushrooms, handcrafted mountain furniture and some polymer clay pieces

And Sarah Green with her fabulous organic herbs, lettuces, asparagus and garlic. She is also a potter!

We still try to attend pottery class on Friday mornings. (no photos right now, sorry) We are doing our best to keep the garden going and the weeds at bay, albeit a fight to the finish I imagine!

Potatoes that Paul & Christian planted

Peppers and squash (not shown)

and we still have strawberries, believe it or not!

We have even been able to attend a couple of social events - one of which was a wonderful Solstice celebration with friends we've been fortunate enough to gather since we've moved up here.

There were a lot of things to offer up to the Summer Solstice powers to be:

Austin (our first born grandson - my son's first son) turned 11 years old on the 18th! I just don't know where all the time has gone. He's very grown up sounding!

The "kids" are all safe and in one piece. Jenn's health is much better and pretty stable. She and Victor (and Christian, of course) have found a real home in Free Chapel where they worship and find great support. Christian is continuing to heal and get his strength back. He is in school for the summer with speech therapy and such. We are looking forward to his visit the end of July.

Jon continues to chef and work crazy and insane hours. Melissa is in nursing school and has given her life to that. She is doing quite well and seems to be a natural with the whole thing. Austin and Cade are in their summer routine with Jon & Melissa, and I'm sure the house is filled with energy and then some!

Nina is still working for the "knee walker" company in Orlando and awaiting her placement in nursing school. It's a demanding process and a real trick to get in a slot apparently. Our fingers are crossed for her. And we will be seeing her soon as she is coming to visit mid July and celebrate her birthday with us! Thankful for the folks who come to see us. :-)

These are just a few of our many blessings we gave thanks for on the Solstice!

My heart seems fairly heavy with compassion for so many of my sweet friends who are dealing with unwanted health issues, grieving/healing and in various stages of losing family members and loved ones, enormous financial challenges and even marital stress. It seems like the whole world tilted on its axis in January of this year. From the tragedy in Japan to our own little corner of trauma hell, it has just been a LOT to try to digest and conquer. These are just a few of the things we asked help for on the Solstice! Grateful for the longer days to accomplish all the goals!

And so, we continue to count our blessings! If you are under the impression I am in the midst of a pity party, I am not. I am just trying to be honest and give you a clue as to why the blog is not so up to date. My momma taught me if you have nothing nice to say, just don't say anything. I spend enormous blocks of time working it all out so I can remain positive and happy. At the end of the day, there just isn't much energy left. I'm trying to concentrate on the art because it's constructive and therapeutic. Also, I like it!

So, in case you don't feel like visiting the art blog, I'll leave you with this! (our motto)

And lots of wishes for blessings to you all!

Cheers!

Paul and Cheri

Strawberries Anyone? And Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-30T10:57:00.000-04:00

Look at all these! Paul is prancing around like a proud papa!

These are actually 2 separate "pickings". And then there are the ones we pick and give away. The strawberry patch is being very good to us! And what happens during strawberry season around here?

Yep! That's Paul in the kitchen! And he's making his amazing strawberry jam. And he's one happy chef when he's making jam.

And here is the "fruit of his effort" (tee hee) after 2 baskets of strawberries. There are still strawberries in the frig, and we are eating them, making smoothies, making strawberry pudding and there is a request for strawberry cake ... LOTS of things strawberry in the works!

For those of you who don't know, Paul is getting up at 4:35 AM(!) to be at work on the golf course by 6AM. This is NOT his normal or his natural schedule. He has been a really good sport about doing it though. So ... staying up to make jam has a whole new meaning.

We are getting the garden ready ... have some things planted, but most things will be going in this week. We have potato plants flourishing now that Paul and Christian planted on Easter. And I've put some herbs in ... but we'll be putting in food now. YAY, YAY, YAY!

So that's our gardening update ...

Look at this little guy! I am sorry this photo is not in better resolution and etc. but I snagged it off of facebook. Do you know who this is? It is Christian, of course! If you are a facebook member you can go on Victor Hall's profile and see this much better. The point is, look at this incredibly healthy young man who is growing up all too fast! We are blessed.

And finally ...

Thank you, daddy, and the other gazillion young men and women who go honor bound forward to protect our country from the evil that lurks out there. We appreciate your guts and fortitude. My dad left a small town in Virginia on a train bound for California, and there found he was to be stationed in the jungle of Burma, India. He boarded a ship and they all set sail with butterflies in the guts and their hearts in their throats. At 18 years old and straight out of high school, this kid, my dad, took a 3 month "travel expedition" that landed him smack in the middle of a nightmare. WWII. He would not talk about most of it. After my mom passed away, he told me just a little bit. I know he spent 30 days in a foxhole eating canned rations, that mostly included pineapple, and he wouldn't eat pineapple after he returned until the day he died! He also refused to camp out ... said he'd had enough of that. He was promoted once to a corporal, but got busted back down to private ... just didn't like the officer rank~or what all that involved I suspect! The men of that generation were different from the men of this day and time. Thanks, dad. To the rest of you civilians, remember a soldier today. The modern day soldiers have so much to deal with because of the evolution of weaponry, strategy, complications and etc. And when it's all said and done, the task at hand is the same today as yesterday, and war is war. I don't understand it, and I'm sure I never will.

God be with you, men and women of the serving forces. Happy Memorial Day!

Blessings to all! Enjoy the day! It's beautiful here ... guess we'll pick some berries!

Happy trails!

Paul and Cheri

Once Again

2011-05-19T13:38:00.000-04:00

The sky is blue and the flowers are blooming!

We have had so many days of solid rain and dreary cold grey that I am pretty sure this day warrants a happy dance right on Main Street !!!

Paul remains busy with the golf course maintenance, miscellaneous welding, social delights such as the girl's soccer team play off games and a friend's birthday party attendance ...

Happy Birthday Beckye!!

you know, normal Paul type stuff! He was able to attend pottery class last week ... that was one happy man, I tell you! This is a peek at this glass display in the shop!

He has to get up at 4:35 am now! Not his natural wake up time. It's very different and difficult to change from a night owl to an early morning riser. We're still working on it!

I am busy with the store (The Rusted Periwinkle in Elk Park) as we are getting ready to open a coffee shop and I am practicing my barista skills! I'm hoping being an active coffee addict will benefit me by just having an instinct for it! We'll see! The store is looking great! COME AND SEE US!

Also, Shannon and I are preparing for art show season. The task list is overwhelming, and although I prefer to NOT talk about it, I'm forcing myself to face the fact that I HAVE to produce copious amounts of art in a very brief period of time. You can check out the art stuff in our lives right here.

Remember this????

I am also signed up for a weaving intensive the week of June 6th. I cannot wait! I've been on the waiting list for the past 2 years!!!! She (Lisa) called and told me I'm in this year! YAY!!! Now I am very excited! I am a weaver ---- soon!

Albeit brief and not very informative at all, this is the update for now. I'll be back with more soon. As soon as the blue sky and blooming flowers set in and improve my attitude, I'll be back!

Blessings to you all,

Paul and Cheri

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T15:30:00.000-04:00

Frances Johnson Taylor, my beautiful mom. This picture was around 1942 (I think). Isn't she something? Her mom, Muriel Tyler Johnson, was ever so beautiful as well, with coal black hair and Cherokee Indian cheek bones. These ladies set the standard for women in our family. Momma, thanks to you I have an appreciation for all living things. I have the understanding of unconditional love. I have faith. I have self respect. I was loved by my mom. I know security. I learned everything you tried to teach me ... eventually. I keep striving to be the woman you were hoping for. I wish I could thank you in person. I love you. And I miss you.

This bloom opened today in honour of Mother's Day! Isn't she a beaut???

And these pansies just make me smile!

Happy Mother's Day to all you moms out there! And all you moms who are watching over us from afar.

Blessings to all.

Update and then some

2011-05-03T08:13:00.000-04:00

We've been BUSY! It feels so good. We've been able to move about without layers of long johns, long sleeves, coats, hats and gloves! It has been HEAVEN! In spite of the impending cold front coming through, spirits are lifted with the recent warm air and flowers blooming. The beautiful spurt of color is so heart warming and uplifting. Look at the gorgeous day this past Saturday!

First of all, Paul has been working at a golf course since March. He's doing his very favorite thing - mowing! (this is a sarcastic comment, by the way) However, he does seem to enjoy being outside and he's already getting tanned! His allergies are out of control though. The poor man is basically trying to survive on memory of how to breathe! If you are allergic to grass and/or have hay fever, mowing for a living is an interesting endeavour! He is such a good sport, and just keeps on smiling in spite of it all. I love this guy!

During one of Paul's trips to and from the course, he found a job site that was changing out some windows in a house. Those of you who know Paul know he simply is NOT ABLE to pass up windows. So, he was able to score some AWESOME windows for us. Well, we really don't need windows in the house, BUT I've been wanting real windows in the screened in porch since we moved in. The transformation has begun!

Now we can make the porch an extension of the house, clean it up, paint, etc. and it will be a PERFECT Florida room. Yeah, I now ... we moved from Florida. That was because of the heat. I LOVE the windowed rooms there though. Here's the beginning of the project ... so incredible to see the transformation take place. I will say though, those things are heavy and our backs were sore by the end of the weekend! But the spaces in between where the windows go have to be modified and reworked. I'm always so impressed by Paul's ability to do things like that. These are things I wouldn't know how to even begin going about doing! He's amazing!

Still have some trimming out to do (not EXACTLY a perfectly straight line or right angle on ANYpart of the project) ... and the windows for the end of the porch (right side on the end as you are looking at it here) are HUGE - almost floor to ceiling. They are going to be INCREDIBLE as that is the "view" we have of the mountain (back side of Beech Mountain). I can't wait to get that part in! Then there is the front of the porch, which I think we'll have to redesign a bit, but nevertheless will be so nice to finish and live in! Then we can use it more than the 4 months of the year that are warm! YAY!

In other news, our friends, Darin and Tracy from Orlando are up in "our neck of the woods" and came by for the evening on Sunday. It was so lovely to see friends from Orlando. They hadn't been here to the house since our very first winter here (we were still living in one room the) so I thought it would be appropriate for them to come to the house. Even though I think there is so much to be done, a lot has been done in the 5 years we've been here. It was fun to see their responses. We had a a lovely evening, good friends, good food, good fun, and wonderful conversation. Thanks for coming up and visiting, you two!

Most of you know I've begun the art gig in full swing. You can check out what's happening with all that at http://www.artsymatilda.com/. Please do check it out if you get a minute. I'd LOVE to have some input on what you think! I'm also working some at the antique/vintage shoppe. We're getting ready to open a coffee shop within the store so it's been GREAT fun. You know, coffee passionista that I am! I am going to get to learn how to work this beautiful thing! Whoo hoo!

Shannon and I have art shows coming up every month through October beginning in June, so I'm trying to stay glued to the chair in preparation. Better get going ...the chair is calling me!

Happy May Day Week!!

Happy Trails,

Paul and Cheri

and the boys

Spartacus

Artemis

Sulu

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T23:12:00.000-04:00

Our Miracle came to visit for Easter!

So, we did all the things we normally do when Christian comes up. (and then some ...)

First off, he and Paul Paul planted some potatoes.

Then there was the family egg dying activity - you know, art at Nana and Paul Paul's.

I just couldn't stop grinning - the whole time the Hall family was visiting! BLISS

My beautiful daughter, Jenn preparing the egg dye for our impatient little fella ...

Our handsome and ever so patient son-in-law, Victor - who sacrificed relaxing for Easter weekend to drive all the way up here and back to Atlanta in about 24 hours so he and his family could visit with us for a few hours. Incredibly generous in my opinion.

And the miracle man in his 7 year old splendor. PRICELESS.

Our beautiful eggs - we are SO good! They were great with brunch also!

Physical therapy for Christian includes a bit of karate action - so intense!

Paul Paul and Christian got up bright and early and went geocaching Sunday morning! This bridge was to be crossed to get to the treasure! AND he did it!!!!

But, before they went there was an Easter basket to attend to!!! One happy kid!!!

Yahoo! King of the mountain!

More bridge time! Yikes!

Climbing with the best of them!

Skipping rocks - apparently he is well versed, now ready to practice.

More with the bridge - you have to go over AND back!

Serious business, this geocaching!

Makes you need to take off your shirt! That, and the fact that it was simply GORGEOUS outside and warm!! WARM!!!

We are so delighted to see Christian jump to the sky

And run like crazy down a hill, up a hill, and around a hill

Finally brunch on the porch! Told you it was gorgeous! No coats required! Life is good!

Some other people ... ha!

Sulu, thinks he hiding!!!

We have tulips blooming ---- and green stuff sprouting! Gorgeous, I tell you!

But this beauty wins the prize --- a Jane Magnolia bloom from Ms. Title's yard. Gorgeous.

It's official, We are blessed.

So many wishes for your blessings too!

Paul & Cheri

Miracles!

2011-04-13T14:39:00.000-04:00

It's happening FINALLY!

We are beginning to see some signs of spring and with it - COLOR!

The beautiful pure and quiet landscape of all white is beginning to burst into COLOR and songs brought to you by birds and such!

With this comes much JOY! And a fresh look at life. I'm quite sure that is why there is SPRING!

And with it many blessings and shouts of gratitude!

We made it through the absolute hardest winter I have EVER lived through.

No, it wasn't just the weather this year.

And now, we are greatly blessed and deeply grateful!

This little guy has kept us giggling and on our toes! Here he is, thinking he can go for a ride in the car!

He's gobs of fun and some where around a year old now! He had a close call with an illness last week, bad mouse or something. He's ALL better now though, and left us a sacrificial bird on the doorstep to show his gratitude. Oh, the joy of outside cats!

The cherry tree is beginning to blossom! It is simply gorgeous! Hopefully it will get to fully bloom as we are expecting some frost tonight. Old man winter is truly hesitant to leave us. I told him he could come back next year. I even baked him brownies and kissed him goodbye. I hope he gets the message and lets our beautiful blooming plants do what they are meant to do!

I think Sulu figures if he can't sit up front, maybe he can ride in the back seat! He's a clever/curious/toddlerish boy, our Sulu!

Here he is helping me do our taxes. Need I say more? I'm still working on them. Sulu's eyes are the most beautiful blue in the world, but they ALWAYS photograph red. Boo! He's quite the looker! But the "big boys" don't think so - STILL! I will be glad when the warm weather stays simply for peace in the house amongst the feline population! Gracious!

This beautiful woman is my daughter, Jenn. She just celebrated her birthday last Friday. I am so very proud to call this lovely lady my daughter. She is gorgeous inside and out. She is smart. She is successful in her career and in her personal life. She is loving and God fearing. Jenn has an amazing testimony to the healing power of God. She is a wonderful wife to Victor and an incredible mother to her and Victor's son, Christian. She is a lovely daughter and has always made sure I know she loves me inspite of our differences in whatever they may have been/are. She's been generously tolerant of my free spirit and gypsy-esque ways. She is a sweet and priceless friend. If I had a thousand pages to fill with the things I love and admire about Jenn, it wouldn't be enough. So, I will just say, Happy Birthday to the most beautiful, thoughtful, loving daughter any mom could ever be blessed with. I love you, Jenn.

This is my son-in-law, Victor and his and Jenn's son, Christian. Victor just celebrated his birthday Saturday before last. Victor, you've come a long way, man! This man is a precious, loving, living and willing disciple of God. He has worked his way through a virtual jungle to come out on "this" side and be able to share his enlightened thoughts and beliefs through his own "remixed" words to all of us about the word of God. He offers a "Soul Food" article several times a week that sends my brain whirling with thought and self examination. I am just as proud of Victor as I am of my very own blood children. He is one strong man, with his own testimony of healing. He is a good husband and a very devoted daddy. Victor, happy birthday to you. I know this year will be the year you are given the gifts you need to "make it all happen" as is in God's plan. I love you too!

Christian, our grandson! Most of you know everything there is to know about him. But just as an update, he is doing SUPER! He will be released from his daily rehab program next week and sent on his way back to his regular school! Just so you know, this in itself is a MIRACLE. He is excited to be back with his buddies and his regular world, albeit a tad changed now! Christian was very instrumental in healing a lot of "junk" in amongst all of the families involved during his illness. Thank you, buddy! We will keep all things as they should be in honor of your wishes and sacrifice. We love you Christian!

I have begun working out with Jillian Michael's (shred in 30 days) DVD because Paul & I have all plans to run a race in honor of ECMO in September. ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) is the lung by-pass procedure which saved Christian's life, well along with voluminous other factors. The ECMO team of Children's Hospital of Atlanta, Egleston has a reunion in September every year. We all plan to attend this year. Hopefully, it will be a great gathering of all kinds of miracles (included miracle will be me running a race - but that's another story!). Christian was the 801st patient to receive ECMO. The run I personally run will be in his honor, but there will be others there running in honor of all ECMO patients and technicians. I can't wait! Hope it's a nice day! Fall in Atlanta is beautiful too!

This entire blog today was brought to you by miracles. Don't you just LOVE spring miracles!?!

Count your blessings!

Happy Wednesday,

Paul and Cheri

Just what the doctor ordered!

2011-03-30T14:55:00.000-04:00

Well, on Friday mornings the time goes to pottery class! And it is absolutely a WONDERFUL way to pass some glorious time. I will post some of Paul's creations soon ... he is FAR more interesting than I in his pottery. Nevertheless, this is my first attempt at something useful and clever. Thankfully there is no deadline as to the learning process! For now I'm just enjoying the process. Our instructor, Patti, keeps reminding me that there are no rules and regulations in creating pottery, but honestly, having been a ballerina for all of those years, and then an instructor after that, the whole concept of no boundaries is just absurd to me! I'm working on it though. I'm having one heck of a time with the glaze on this piece, so as I struggle Patti tells me to just live with it for a week or two before I change it. She's so much fun. :-)

In celebration of Paul and I surviving the first quarter of this very tough start to 2011, we had a dinner with good friends. (l to r, Mark, Janine, Patti, Dan & Paul) For all you foodies, we served Coq Au Vin (and very much missed Beth being here for it - everyone was actually saying "hi Beth!" in this picture) and a good time was had by all! the food was a collaborative effort and it was all delicious, as was the wine! We played a few rounds of Scattergories and laughed HARD! The evening was absolutely delightful and pretty much JUST what the doctor ordered! It really has been a nail biting kind of year thus far. However, always the optimist, we know it's getting better and that all of the endurance has been for good. We continue to be blessed and life is good.

**---**

In other good news, Christian continues to improve by leaps and bounds. He and I played football together a week ago this past Saturday. We also played Monopoly Jr. (with his daddy, too). Christian and I took a walk, played the wii, did an art project, talked about important things (like if I thought God or the fairies came first!), and we watched a movie. It was the sweetest visit I can ever remember and I am the most grateful Nana ever! It is so amazing how the blessings of life work.

My brother in law, Paul, remains hospitalized while they try to figure out the inner workings of his heart. He's really had a challenge of it with a blood clot and some out of rhythm issues and has logged some hard days. They transferred him from the local hospital to a heart hospital in Nashville and feel he is in much better care at this point. We continue to pray and send good thoughts to he and Cyndie, and know it is just a matter of time before they find the answers for his perfect healing and he gets to go back home.

My sweet friend Teresa is hanging in there and doing quite well under the circumstances. She lost her husband, Britt, just 3 short weeks ago very suddenly. I did get to go to Atlanta and spend a little time with her and it was wonderful to get caught up and spend some time together. Although I just cannot imagine what her little heart must be going through, I am very impressed by the manner in which she is approaching surviving it all. Teresa, we love you. God bless you. AND Teresa just passed the 4th part of the CPA exam! CONGRATULATIONS! I love knowing such smart people!

I also was able to have coffee and gossip time with Sabrina whilst in Atlanta. Oh, so sweet!

May your tables be filled with bounty.

May your lives be filled with goodness and grace.

May your troubles be few and your joy be great.

And maybe you will be as blessed as we are and have wonderful friends to share it all with!
Paul and Cheri

They did it! 10K!

2011-03-14T21:45:00.000-04:00

So, Nina talked her dad, PAUL, into running a 10k! There was a little healthy competition between them and one thing lead to another ... before long they were registered for the Chasing Snakes 10K in Johnson City. SO ... Nina landed Friday night and Saturday morning she and Paul were standing at the starting line ready to run! I am thoroughly impressed! I, unfortunately was not able to participate as I had to take my art to the gallery ... but that's another story for another time...

So, here they are, father and daughter, numbers 503 and 502, all fresh and ready to run a 10K!

As I understand it, Nina had a great pace and just ran until she finished, which was 68 minutes after she began. Did I mention that I am totally impressed? Holy smokes! (I would still be trying to finish!) Paul did a few of those manly "go as fast as I can" and "gotta catch my breath" kind of things ... and has self professed to be "not at a steady pace" ~ but still finished at 75 minutes. I am so very proud of both of them! But I will point out here and now that Paul did NOT beat Nina and Nina actually won the race between the two of them!

Apparently Paul found this gentleman, Neal, who helped him set a pace and get himself in a zone. Thanks, Neal.

THE FINISH LINE!

10k! Good job, honey! You ROCK.

Nina, I'm so sorry I wasn't there to take your finish line shot. :-(

Next time I will BE THERE ~ probably not in running clothes tho!

So here they are, finished and smiling!

I think this was at the awards ceremony. Look at those big ole grins! So cute!

Paul was amazed that the winner had already showered and changed to accept his award by the time they all finished the race. HA!

Post race Paul. :-)

Life is good!

Happy Trails and many blessings,

Paul and Cheri

Now, Where was I?

2011-03-09T14:57:00.001-05:00

First order of business, of course is our precious Christian! Here he is on Monday, March 7th. He took cupcakes to his regular school for sharing to say thank you for all the good thoughts and prayers the kids and their parents sent. They all sent cards and letters, and jokes on the care pages. They were all very concerned about Christian. Now he is his silly little self, as you can see!!!! Wish I could give out cupcakes to all of you for your kindness to all of us during his crazy illness. But please know, in our hearts, we've made each of you a special cupcake filled with love and goodness. Really! Thank you all!

This is the piece I want to center my gallery space around. The frame is an old antique mirror frame that originally went on a buffet. The mirror was broken out of it and Tammy (who owns the antique store) gave me the frame when she heard I wanted to mosaic inside it. Now I tell you, when I told her that I had a big sunflower image in mind. BUT between Tammy and Chrissie making all their bird pieces, and Jenni Horne's influence, I started thinking I should do a bird cage. When I started babbling about it to Paul (that poor man, he must really feel like stuffing cotton in to his ears some times!) he came up with "I think you should do wire for the cage" ... and this is what has come out of all of that. Things like this kind of create their selves, but I would be lost and sunk without Paul's input. (thanks, honey) This piece has been great fun to work on. I must admit, putting those teeny tiny glass pieces on the bird sort of felt like surgery at some points ... but other than that, it's been easy and lovely to work on. Today is grout day and I am procrastinating like a pro!

Please check out the new page for my art at http://www.artsymatilda.com/. I'd love to hear what you think!!!

It's pouring the rain and it's cold. Will the grout dry? I'll keep you posted!

I am feeling a little less wobbly today than I have been since Feb. 3rd. Each day delivers more strength, more clarity and some heart healing. Whew! So grateful for THAT! There is no way to prepare oneself for having the "rug yanked out from under neath you" as did happen with Christian's illness. We have been blessed repeatedly since that day and we offer thanks and gratitude at every turn. But the best way I can describe how I feel is:

Remember when you were a kid? You would close your eyes and some of your friends would spin you around in gobs and gobs of circles. Then they would let go and you were supposed to open your eyes and just continue on in a straight line. It was a bit wobbly at first just trying to stand up, then attempts at walking were "pitiful" at best. Then time passed and everything returned right back to normal again.

Well, I think I've almost returned to the walk a straight line phase again.

Reminding you that Hugh passed away just a week ago yesterday. The service was lovely and well done for such a mighty fine man. Still will miss him ike crazy.

My sister's husband, Paul (who is my brother-in-law-to make that easier) was hospitalized and taken in to ICU for cardiac troubles this Monday. It was determined he has a blood clot in his heart. Gadzooks! They've medicated him and are confident in his treatment and have sent him home so Cyndie can take good care of him while he heals and gets stronger. Please send him some good thoughts, as he is still very uncomfortable and weak. He is very lucky to have been diagnosed quickly and having a plan of treatment is a blessing. Heal quickly Paul! We're sending all good thoughts your way.

SO: breaking out of THAT cycle with good news:
Paul's Mum and Dad celebrated their wedding anniversary on March 7th.

Happy Wedding Anniversary to you two lovebirds!!!

Nina will be arriving this Friday (amongst the snow flakes) to run a race with her dad on Saturday in Johnson City to benefit the Women & Family shelters. Yay for Nina coming! It's always wonderful to see her. I'm glad they're running and not me! Going to snow Friday ... blue legs do NOT look good on me! :-)

The gallery opens on the 15th, so we exhibitors will take our work in on Saturday ... which means I will be on my own for this trip. Upstairs Gallery is located in High Point, NC (http://www.upstairsgalleryhp.com/) and here I go! G.U.L.P.!!!!!

That's the news from the home of Sir Paul in Elk Park!

Happy Trails to you!

Paul and Cheri

My friend

2011-03-02T21:52:00.000-05:00

Last night the world lost the most incredible Ambassador it has ever known.

I had the good fortune to know this man and I count my lucky stars for it.

Hugh Fields (2nd from the left) was a great friend. He was warm, kind and loving. He was never too busy for anyone who dropped in to say hello. ("Well, hi Partner! How are you doing?") He was a perfect Southern Gentleman. He was passionate about Dewars Scotch and Winstons. He was also absolutely over the moon about his family: Eleanor his wife; Sarah, his baby girl; Lawson, his precious son; and Brian, his adored son-in-law. Last but not least, his faithful dog, Isabel, Izzie, whom he loved dearly. He was also crazy about his extended family and it often included people who were absolutely no blood relation at all. Hugh was an avid golfer and I have no doubt he will be hitting the links in heaven by week's end. He was a genius in real estate and was hugely responsible for the great success of Grandfather Golf and Country Club's membership.

Hugh, EVERYONE will miss you. But I personally will miss our phone calls over the past year, the ones we had when we talked about all kinds of things like solving the world's problems and horse racing, raising kids and favorite pastimes, and just leaving our own troubles out of the mix. I will miss your advice and your jokes, your giggle and the twinkle in your eyes. Most of all I will miss your optimism. And all those "great meetings" you had in your life. As Emily said, the world is just not the same without you walking around in it. The stars are absolutely twinkling tonight in your honor. It's your kind of night here in the High Country.

Rest in peace, Hugh Fields.

We love you.

Paul & Cheri

Three weeks and 2 days ago

2011-02-25T20:57:00.000-05:00

This little guy scared us to pieces. Today he is standing on his own two feet once again.

We are so blessed. And we are so grateful.

Life is good!

Paul & Cheri

Miracles and Giggles!

2011-02-20T21:34:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, our grandson Christian has been fighting one BIG battle to return to normal after a very wretched case of the flu, which landed him in PICU in a coma, lung bypass and all kinds of yucky stuff. He was on lung bypass (ECMO) for 7 days, in a coma for 8 days. He was kept heavily sedated for 14 days. He was still sedated (medium to lightly) until 8pm last night, which was his last dose of the heavy duty stuff. He no longer needs sedation!! He was transferred from the PICU of Children's Hospital of Atlanta to Scottish Rite's Comprehensive Inpatient Rehab Unit on Friday of this past week. He has begun to sit up alone, regain his strength, take a few (assisted) steps here and there, eat and drink slowly and has otherwise just blown our socks off with his healing. I am not at liberty to give out all the details, as it is his story and he and his parents should get the honor of telling it. But we are eternally grateful to have been a part of his adventure and are in awe of his progress thus far. He has been an incredible teacher to all of us who have been in his life ... and we thank him with all of our hearts.

Today when I walked in to his room, Christian smiled that little boy mischievous sideways grin at me, and flashed his gorgeous big black eyes and I knew he had been fully restored FOR SURE. He tried to wrestle me away when I tickled him and we had a down right giggle fest for a few minutes. It is an absolute celebratory day! He has some physical therapy to finish, and then home! Whoo hoo!

So, I just wanted to say to all of you who have been following this story:

THANK YOU FROM OUR HEARTS AND SOULS for the energy, good thoughts, prayers, food, kind words, housing accommodations, love, support and all the other things I've left out because I'm exhausted and elated and way too tired to think in a straight line. We appreciate each and every one of you. And we are so blessed!!

Life is good!

Paul and Cheri

Thank you ... one and all!

2011-02-12T20:33:00.000-05:00

Greatest gobs of thanks to you ALL for your sweet blessings, good thoughts, wonderful prayers, incredible energy and love that have poured out to this beautiful child, Christian.

And, by the way, all those prayers, good thoughts, energy and love have brought him through this amazing week with miraculous healing. As my daughter says, he will come through this fire not even smelling of smoke as a testimony to the Grace of God.

And we are oh, SO grateful.

Onward ... Christian, Soldier.

Life is good.

Cheri & Paul

Happy 9th Birthday Cade!!!

2011-02-09T21:38:00.000-05:00

CADE!!! Happy 9th Birthday!!!

This young man is our middle grandson.

He is vivacious, precocious, creative, talented, fun and loving.

He is a complete and utter joy to know and love.

He is a regular American boy who loves sports and pulling for his teams.

He is always willing to jump in and help out with whatever needs to be done, even if it's hard manual labor.

We are SO proud of you, Cade, for the young man you are becoming!

We love you gobs and bunches!

Happy 9th Birthday, Caderman!

Love, Nana & Paul

Christian

2011-02-05T14:09:00.000-05:00

Our sweet grandson, Christian (my daughter & son-in-law's son) has been admitted to Egleston Children's Hospital's PICU. He has asked for us all to "pray over" him. We would certainly appreciate any prayers and good thoughts of positivity you might have to offer for Christian, as well as his mom Jennifer, and his dad Victor; and the doctors and staff whose care he is in.

My daughter has written a carepage to keep everyone updated on our Christian. Please visit his page by following the link:

http://www.carepages.com/carepages/227781/invitations/1336760/e36db1e228ee271e925d4310dac43ac99da6375b?client_code=choa&ipc=miv

Paul and I are in Atlanta for an undetermined length of stay. We are responding to text message and emails as we can, as well as phone calls. Everyone has been so very kind and supportive and we haven't had to worry about any of the "mortal" things. We appreciate all of the kindness so very much. It has freed up our energies to concentrate on helping Christian heal and get back to his precocious, precious self.

Many thanks,

Paul and Cheri

(aka Nana and Paul Paul)

Most Beautiful

2011-01-30T10:32:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday we had the most beautiful snow of the season. It started pouring about 9:30 in the morning, and by 2pm everything was covered --- the trees, the roads, the grass ... everything. It was SO pretty. And it wasn't cold enough to last very long so it's already gone from the trees and the like. But we do still have snow on the ground. I guess we will get to see the ground in a month or two. Looks like we are expecting more snowy weather next week. Oh, awesome! :-/

In the most recent news from Elk Park, there is very little! We are still in the waiting cycle to hear the final word on Paul's prospective job. We know "it is what it is" ... no matter what that turns out to be. But I must admit the waiting game is a bit frustrating and I am not nearly as patient as my sweet Paul is.

I think I've mentioned the 10k coming up, so we spent time at the gym, working on our walking/running ability and times. Paul is a machine while I remain a wimp. Perfect!

We had a lovely pottery class on Friday. Patti always makes the class a perfect end to the week, no matter how grueling the week has been. Thank you Patti! Paul's alligator is in the kiln, along with the elephant, and his kayak. My bowl and platter are in there. Can't wait to see how they all come out. Such a fun little adventure game!

Yesterday we attended a service for Charles' grandfather (Edd Green) who was laid to rest in the Green family cemetery. As is the custom here in the mountains, the palbearers (which Paul was one of) covered the grave after the service. It is done as an honor to the deceased, rather than some cold machinery covering them, they are covered with respect and kindness. The cemetery is up on a beautiful hillside of the property which he owned. As the grave was being filled, I stood by a HUGE tree and marveled at how beautiful the day was (50 degrees, for starters!) with a gorgeous blue sky and a still kind of peaceful reflection time. It seemed like a perfect day to be laid to eternal rest. As the Rev. said, we (humans) don't really understand death, but God does. It struck me (up there on that gorgeous hillside) how it all comes down to just YOU, no matter what your life had materially in it, when it's all said and done, none of that matters. You are set to rest with just your own self. Hmmm... (The Rev. was right, death is confusing and it makes my head hurt).

We send blessings to Charles, who will sorely miss his grandpa. We send blessings to his mom, Donna who will surely miss her precious daddy; and to Charles' dad, Terry, who will also very much miss his father-in-law. And of course, to the rest of the family and friends.

Today I am hoping to finally get all the Christmas decorations off of the dining room table and tucked back into the attic until next time. It is supposed to be 50 degrees today! Should be warm enough in the house to make that possible. YAY! I might even be able to vacuum without freezing ... life is good!

So, Shannon and I have chosen several art shows to apply to and hopefully get entered into. Today I will also make sure all the applications are complete and ready to mail tomorrow morning, bright and early. It's going to be a great day!

Wishing you all a beautiful Sunday! Wishing you a PERFECT week!

Cheers!

Paul & Cheri

Maniacal ...totally

2011-01-25T20:41:00.001-05:00

I know I haven't posted often lately ... I know it in my heart and I know it because it is being mentioned here and there ... ahem .....

Let me update the situation ...

I have been working/playing at The Rusted Periwinkle. The pictures above are of the store, which we actually call "the shoppe"! It is located in Elk Park on lower street where Sherry Holden used to have Mother Nature's, and now is occupied by Tammy Brinkley's The Rusted Periwinkle/Periwinkle Pass Studio. Tammy is an incredibly gifted mixed media artist and has been very generous in guiding me in my art biz start up and letting me work with her (and for her) at the shoppe. She has been the BEST inspiration for which I am deeply grateful. Indeed! (please do yourself a favor and check out her beautiful work at http://www.periwinklepass.com/).

SO ... there lies another clue to why I've been busy. I am trying with all my might/energy/blessings/imagination/creativity/determination to set up a new blog, etsy store, website, financial plan, business plan, art show schedule and actual art to sell. It's been busy. I have a contract for a new Fine Arts Gallery in High Point, NC (Upstairs Gallery) to open March 1. (enter fear - yikes ...) More information following ...

Shannon and I are also working on the Clayzaics show schedule, the inventory needs, the show booth necessities and etc. Good grief! Planning has taken on an entire new meaning! And requires more hours in the day ... more energy in the hours ... and more mind power than normal. always unpredictable for me)

And Paul had is pre-employment physical today. When all the tests are cleared for take off, employment will commence. At that time I will reveal the company etc. We are praying (at least I am!) for expedience in this test processing. Reserves are exhausted and gainful employment will be ever so helpful now, and we will be ever so GRATEFUL! Of course, we already are grateful .. so more of the same ... only better :-)

Nina is coming to town in March so she and her dad can run the 10k race (Chasing Snakes) for the family homeless shelters in Johnson City, TN. I put the kibosh on "I'll just show up and run" for Paul, so he and I are going to the gym and working in some walking/running time for training. It's lovely to work out again. Wonder what in the world took me so long? Nice to have a workout buddy, I must say. I don't really think Paul is as excited about it as I am, but it's been nice to enjoy the endorphins again.

The cats are learning to co-habitate, but they do not like it much. Artemis lives for the moments when Sulu goes outside for his morning romp. Sulu lives for those moments as well, come to think of it. Spartacus just rules the roost and is well happy unless someone goes for his food - or his mom. We're still working on harmony. Spring will be welcomed, for lots of reasons!

Our friend Joe Williams, who was Mr. England in the 70's, will be having his birthday on the 29th. Joe dear, we wish you a mighty fine birthday! Cheers, mate!
My dear friend Joanie Stewart is having a birthday on the 30th. Joanie is the Artistic Director of the Suwanee Ballet Theatre in Cumming, GA. We have known each other through thick and thin, richer and poorer, lost and found choreography, broken spirits, battered ballet slippers, broken hearts and sweet celebrations of life. Joanie, happiest of birthdays, sweet lady. And many blessings to you and yours!

also, my cousin, Georga, who lives in Brooklyn is celebrating her birthday on the 31st. Georga was one of my six cousins I knew, but she was by far my closest cousin. We were, after all, the only girls in the bunch and had to stick together. Also, we were both theater people, and Georga has made a life long career out of acting and teaching children about acting. Happy Birthday, sweet Georga. Much love!

So, as we anticipate some more beautiful snow tomorrow, I leave you with good thoughts, sweet blessings and lots of good wishes for a happy adventure through life.

Cheers!

Paul & Cheri

Hello World!

2011-01-19T15:46:00.000-05:00

29 years ago today this young man was born! He came in to this world around noon. And he's been making his presence know ever since! Jon Adams. I love you, honey. Happy Birthday to you.

And Jon, wishes for many, many more Happy Birthdays to come! Hope all those birthday wishes come true!

Additionally in birthday land, Charles celebrated his birthday on Monday. Happy Birthday, Charles!

As I told you, we are taking a pottery class on Fridays. So here, as proof, is Paul doing his thing in class.

And just to widen the view a bit, here is Paul entertaining the teacher and our sweet friend, Patti. Patti generously volunteers her time at the senior center where we take our class. Great FUN! Patti is a real time potter. She and her husband, Dan can be found here: http://www.linvilleriverpottery.com/. Her work is exquisite! Check her out!

And here is what Paul came up with last week during class --- an alligator! You just never know what he's going to come up with! Paul asked Patti why she wasn't making any suggestions to which she replied she'd never had any alligator making experience and then she says to him, "I got nothing", which puts it all in perspective for the way I often feel when dealing with instruction and help for our Paul!

This is a beautiful and stunning view from Mark & Janine's crow's nest a top Buck Mountain. There has been so much snow I'm not sure it'll ever thaw. But meanwhile we just try to appreciate the beauty it adds to our world!

Do hope all of you are having a beautiful world.

Short and sweet today - still working on the art blog, art website, etsy, etc., etc.

Could use some luck and extra hours in the day!

Happy Trails!

Paul & Cheri

Perspective ...

2011-01-10T17:53:00.000-05:00

I know January is going to be snowy and cold (11 inches worth Sunday high about 10 degrees).

I know there is a perfect hill to sled/snow board on in our backyard when it snows like this.

I know the views are breath-taking and the peace it generates is magnificent and oh, SO good for the soul.

I know there will be more snow to come THIS WEEK! (oh boy) copious amounts ... another foot or so.

And I know the snow will eventually topple over this poor little bird bath.

But I always keep hoping spring will be here next week. We were promised by the woolly worms AND the Almanac that our winter would be mild. They said early winter (Nov/Dec) would be harsh and late winter (Mar/Apr) would be harsh, but the majority of the winter was supposed to be mild. Well, that prediction turns out to be incorrect! I, for one, am tired of being cold, of spending unbelievable amounts of money for propane and electricity, and poor Paul's lower back from gathering wood is mostly just broken! B U T, let me be perfectly clear on this point, we are GRATEFUL to the brim of our gratitude vessel to have the option to buy propane and electricity, to have wood to gather and to have a stove to fire the wood up in! We are deliriously content with our home, our lives and our love. Sometimes it is just a good idea to gather your perspective and realign things. There!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*Yesterday was our niece, Sara's birthday. Happy Birthday Sara!!!!

*I've been given a challenge to open my Etsy shop by Friday. I suppose you won't hear from me until Friday (or Saturday) as I am going to be working on the art biz set-up. However, I would appreciate any good thoughts you might have just sitting around! I'm a bit of a nervous Nelly trying to get my head wrapped around all of this and get it done, be in the moment, and carry on with all those pieces of art I have in my head! It's all so very exciting, invigorating and scary as any unknown territory is! Big BREATH!

*Paul has been working on his pottery elephant! He is quite good (don't tell him I said that) and I'm always very impressed with his art work. Smarty pants! (I'll post a photo when it gets finished)

Until we meet again . . .

Stay warm, dry and keep your perspective in check!

Many blessings to you all,

P and C

Today

2011-01-07T20:32:00.000-05:00

Christian, the rock star

Christian the snow boarder

Christian, the sled monster!

Warning: these pics have nothing whatsoever to do with this post!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Paul & I took a pottery class at the senior center from our sweet friend Patti. It was great fun! Paul began work on an elephant tea pot --- or something elephant! I made some mosaic tiles ... I hope. I cut them out, we'll see how it goes! It was such fun, it doesn't matter. Thanks, Patti. We had a great morning!

Then, we all went to a memorial service for a 26 year old woman who passed away New Year's eve/day. We have a core group of adults that get together for things like solstice parties, 4th of July celebrations, and the like. Tony and Cindy out of that group are the parents of Jessica, who passed away. Our hearts are just broken for them. Watching the room filled with people struggle with grief was one of the most wretched feelings I can remember experiencing since last spring when we attended a different (yet similar) service for another young woman, Eleanor who passed away. Her parents are Barbara & Ellis, also in our celebratory group. What are the odds that in a group of 20 or so adults, 2 sets of parents would lose an adult child? Losing a child always goes against the grain of the way things are supposed to play out. It seems so absolutely unforgivable ... and yet to whom do you offer the "I will never forgive you" curse to? Grief is SUCH a raw emotion, and so very hard to understand how to process. Most of us have had the unfortunate opportunity to experience the raw feelings. Most of us struggle with processing grief for the duration. I wish for these two families more love and support than they ever knew was possible. I wish the same for anyone and everyone dealing with grief. Blessings to you all.

It seemed appropriate today for the snow to fall ... and fall and fall and fall. It cleanses the air. It's quiet and peaceful. It's beautiful. And it's beyond comprehension ... just like the subject at hand.

So I leave you with this, which I am always saying anyway. Enjoy your life. Love with your whole heart. Laugh with all your might. Never miss an opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. Love life. It's amazing, precious and you just never know when it's over.

Blessings to all,

Cheri (I'm not signing Paul's name b/c these are my personal ramblings, but he wishes you all blessings too! Along with a cuppa tea from his elephant tea pot when it is built :-) )

And the New Year begins ...

2011-01-04T11:04:00.000-05:00

People with my DNA (l-r, my daughter Jennifer, her son Christian, my son Jon, his sons Austin and Cade)

The three amigos, (l-r) Austin, Cade and Christian

My hippie Nutcracker, as promised. Thanks, Beckye! We love him! Even my grandson Christian thought he was a perfect Nutcracker for our collection :-)

I've been making lots of fabric journals with creative art insides. They are FUN to make and pretty cool, if I do say so myself. Tammy Brinkley's beautiful art is on the cover ... you can view her art at the http://www.periwinklepass.com/ website. She is brilliant!

This is the commission I was working on. I LOVE the way it finished up! It's for a little boy and was so much fun to make! I loved doing this piece because of it being for a child. Something very new and different for me!

There are lots of new beginnings for us this year. I will be kicking off a new blog for my art this week if all goes as planned and will explain there some of the new endeavors. Some very cool and exciting stuff!

Paul is in the interviewing process for a new and exciting opportunity.

We have so many blessings to count!

Stay tuned for more!

And once again, to one and all,

Happy New Year.

Blessings to everyone!

Paul and Cheri

December 30th

2010-12-30T13:31:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to think about all the birthdays I've had up to this point! My parents (momma mostly) always made sure we knew we were special on our birthdays. Our dad spoiled us monetarily, and our mom spoiled us with breakfast in bed, pancakes for dinner, birthday cake and ice cream, stuff like that. There were parties some years, and because my birthday is at Christmas time, there was always an air of celebration bigger than a birthday deserved! I guess that feeling has always been with me because on the morning of December 30th I always wake up refreshed, happy, adventurous and a little spunkier than normal! I have always been blessed. I have always been able to see the glass half full. I must've been born under a lucky star because I know my parents grew the seed of positivity and love inside me when I was a child so that I might have this special life to celebrate each day and give thanks for it every December 30th.

When I woke up this morning I was reminded of another BIG reason to celebrate love in my life - Paul. I am humbled and grateful, amazed and overwhelmed. When I picked up my phone, my email/facebook messages had been working overtime receiving the sweetest lovely birthday greetings from my friends and family. My heart is filled with warmth and joy and my eyes are filled with tears. And mostly I am speechless ~ believe it or not!

I just wanted to say thank you. And to remind you all to celebrate! Life is good! I am so blessed and I do so hope you are too!

Many thanks,

Cheri

Boxing Day Blizzard ...

2010-12-26T23:12:00.000-05:00

Yep - another blizzard day. We've got LOTS of snow outside and are expecting it to continue falling until Tuesday according to latest report. Oh boy! It is honestly beautiful outside. The snow has draped everything! And I do love spending time with Paul so it's working so far. But I can feel cabin fever setting in. I'll surely be mildly insane by Tuesday. Paul's mum hand made us this beautiful blue throw for Christmas, among other wonderfully warm clothing. THANK YOU, Mum!

Snow in copious amounts makes me want to sleep ... a lot. I also make LOTS of trips to the fridge ... and back to the den. It's been a typical, wonderful winter wonderland ... and all the things that go with it!

This was Paul on Christmas morning ... had his Christmas cracker crown on. We do have a good time! None of the kids could get up here because of the weather ... so we're still holding on to lots of presents to give out to the grandsons...if we ever get out of this snow!

Look at all of these presents! We had a great time unwrapping and discovering our treasures!

Here's one of my treasures! I've ALWAYS wanted a photo of Albert Einstein (one of my big heros). Turns out Paul is a GREAT listener! Who knew!?!

Christmas eve game night with Janine & Mark. We played Trivial Pursuit 80's. We were NOT good! But we had GREAT fun and consumed plenty of spirits. Great friends and a great time!

Snow makes this guy want to sleep too! And he finds some interesting places to nap. There is still not a happy family vib between all the kitties, but we're working on it!

Hope you have all had a wonderful Boxing Day!

Looking forward to wishing you a Happy New Year too!

Stay warm and stay safe!

Paul & Cheri

One week until Christmas ... almost!

2010-12-20T12:26:00.000-05:00

The Happiest Christmas Tree --- wired to the ceiling so Sulu can't pull it down while he picks the ornaments off! It looks beautiful in the evening with the lights and the crystal. I love sitting in the living room and just staring at the tree. It's peaceful and creative thought producing. It's a gift from mother nature. Beautiful and happy ... and lovely.

The growing Mr. Sulu. He has provided plenty of giggles for Paul and I. He drags things around the house and stashes them in his treasure trove under a chair in the den. Tonight he came through dragging one of my scarves that was about 4 feet long. I thought it was a snake! Spartacus was intrigued! So entertaining! He's moved it around several times. It must be hard work but he's invested in it being his. It is FUN to have a kitten around again. :-)

These guys are not too sure about how fun having a kitten around is! But they are slowly adjusting to having to deal with it anyway!
I have been blessed with a mosaic/multi media commission piece. (whoo hoo!) We have been enduring some mighty cold weather. Last week the temperature was in single digits so I had to work in the kitchen where the warmth from the wood stove would dry the adhesive on the tiles and the grout. Artemis decided to help me. I sat in the chair opposite where these guys are sitting and worked for a couple of days. They basically stayed right where you see them while I worked. I think Artemis was my guardian creative angel ... and Spartacus was our resident napper. At least someone was getting some rest!

This is Paul's Nutcracker tree. We put it up when the rest of the house gets decorated each year. This year we decorated with gumption because we had the Solstice Celebration here. The house really does look nice and warm, and FESTIVE! We had a very good time at the Solstice Party. And, it really feels like Christmas with all the snow ... "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas". There is a light dusting from this morning's precipitation. Nothing big, but enough to make it feel right for the season.

Our Nutcracker collection. Our friend Beckye has given us a "hippie" to add to our collection which is missing from this photo. I'll try to get that photo added before the end of the season. He's very "Paul and Cheri" appropriate. :-)

Our nativity set that I've had for years and years. And it's still all together!

The Entertainer ... he's a hunter. He loves to hide behind things and jump out to surprise you. Or jump you, if you're another cat! So funny ... great photo ops!

The beginning of the commission piece - 24" x 40". Will show the final later this week. I'm very excited about this piece. It's for a little boy - a bulletin board. It's FUN to do because it's happy and whimsical!

Paul used his ingenuity and had our beer on snow in a wheelbarrow this time instead of our normal wash tub of ice. Lots of beer still left --- please drop by and have one or two! Besides, 'tis the season and we want to visit with everyone! You can stop by and NOT have a beer if you wish!

Solstice Fiesta in progress! Ole! Don't you just love the party hats?

The Kress Sisters, Meghan and Jennie -so GOOD to see them! They're both in school AND working. We felt very special having them for a few hours.

Two very lovely women right here! On the left, Beth, on the right is Patti Conner Greene. Beth is the co-hostess of the Solstice Celebration. She made some absolutely DELICIOUS homemade pork tamales rolled in fresh corn husks! She also created a gorgeous fresh swag of seasonal greenery for our dining room doorway and a lovely table spray. She said she wasn't "feeling it" and was bummed about her lack of energy for it. Just for the record, her arrangements are BEAUTIFUL!! Thank you Beth! In her professional life Beth is a CNA and cares for and nurtures sick and home bound adults. She is a precious, giving, loving and a very special woman. We love you Beth. Happy Solstice.
Patti is an incredible potter, who I've mentioned many times here. She is now volunteering her time at the senior center once a week teaching pottery. After a little "fake i.d." scenario, I got to attend a class last week. It was PHENOMENAL! I had THE BEST time I've had in ages! And it set the stage for my new endeavor of creative dreams coming true. I learned how to make a bowl out of clay - it is drying now. Can't wait to see what happens with it next! Patti is involved with a collaborative effort with a couple of other potters whereby they are each making a piece of a tea pot (spout, handle, body, lid, etc), assembling them with a part from each artist into one teapot, firing them, glazing them, and putting them in a show! It is most interesting and educational to watch this concept come in to fruition! I have always been intrigued with collaboration work and would LOVE to find a group to play in. PLEASE visit her website, her work is exquisite and gorgeous. Patti and her husband Dan are two of the nicest people you will ever meet. They are fun loving, practice adventure seeking regularly, and enjoy every breath they take. Our kind of folks! www.linvilleriverpottery.com Oh, and while I was visiting the senior center for my class, who should appear but Santa Claus! I was touched by how magical his presence was. I was also touched by how I immediately felt like a little girl with stars in my eyes for this very friendly, happy, jolly man dressed in a red suit! It was THE BEST time I've had in ages, did I mention that? I LOVE the holidays because of the magic. I so wish it could last all year long ... and I'm working on that!

A little look into the holiday celebration ... lots of spirits on the table!

The Mayan flavored feast! It was good. :-) Thank you to everyone who could join us in the flesh. Thank you also to those of you who joined us in spirit. There is a lunar eclipse on the horizon for us, as well as the winter solstice on Tuesday, the 21st. Its a good time to re-evaluate what you do/don't want in your life, your future and your dreams and goals. I'll be dedicated to declaring all that. I hope we all have clarity to see and feel what we are seeking! There was a moment during the party where I got to stand back and count all of the blessings I could see:
* a wonderful husband with a generous spirit and a loving heart
*wonderful friends - all around
*fabulous food and beverage
*a warm home with all the conveniences of modern living (electricity and such, big change from a teepee!)
*gorgeous representation of the magic of the season with gifts from Mother Nature like the giant beautiful tree and evergreen decorations, and the magic of snow
*art
*hope, dreams, joy, laughter, compassion, forgiveness, celebration and love
*A village of different personalities, talents, gifts, senses of humor, experiences, stories and energies
*F*A*I*T*H*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*Yesterday was the 3rd anniversary of my brother's passing. I miss him every day.

My heart goes out to his wife and his daughter. Mercy.

*Apparently Christmas is approaching very quickly!

Have you been good?

I leave you with my favorite picture from the holiday party ....

Chad (Jennie's husband) and Paul (my husband) male bonding ...

and notice the wooden tree in the background - a gift from Paul's daughter, Nina.

Hand cut and dressed up with lights! Perfect!

All good wishes for a wonderful week to everyone!

Paul & Cheri

The "B" Word ...

2010-12-13T23:04:00.000-05:00

B.L.I.Z.Z.A.R.D.!!

It's been snowing now for over 24 hours ... and we've about 24 more predicted, I think.

The wind is BLOWING --- a lot! BIG gusts ... lots of fun! We've all tied cinder blocks to ourselves so we won't blow off the mountain.

Send warm thoughts!

and maybe a snowmobile!

Look who dropped in for a visit! The adventure seeker, Nina! She arrived at the tail end of a nice snow we had last week. She drove all the way up from Orlando and until the last 400 yards had absolutley NO problems. There was a minor technical issue with one wheel in a ditch, which was resolved in a minute and here she was! Safe and sound and here in the snow, which seemed to be what she really wanted. She finally really saw it snowing. And she had to leave Saturday before the blizzard hit. I think she knows it snows now. Oh, and it gets cold.

We managed to get out for Sushi! YUM! We also had a little while in Barnes & Noble. Only the best for Nina's night out with the folks! ha!

Nina and her dad went geocaching - in the snow and ice. This picture was taken at Elk River Falls. The foggy effect is Paul's breath while he's taking the picture. It was cold.

I think this picture was taken at the bottom of the falls, but I'm not sure. It was a geocaching expedition in the snow/ice. They're a little crazy, just in case you didn't put that together.

Yep, Paul, geocaching Paul. "Nut job" on the loose. But he sure has a good time!

Nina, chillin' with the boys, Spartacus and Sulu. Artemis is still hiding most of the time ... although more on that later.

THIS is RUNNING water. There was a day when we had NO running water as it was frozen and not running what so ever! ARGH! Poor Nina ... she had some really fun experiences here this time.

We did get to bake snowmen cookies! So good!

Now look at this! ALL 3 cats in the same room. You must look closely to see it, but there is a cat in each of the three chairs! (some hats and gloves in the 4th) We have been running the wood stove in the kitchen and the Big Bertha stove in the basement wide open since yesterday when the blizzard began. The kitties have discovered how wonderful wood heat is! Today I had to move my current art work to the kitchen as the studio is just too cold now. I, too, have discovered how wonderful wood heat is!

Thank goodness for the little wood stove Beth gave us. We would've frozen without it! Thanks, Beth!

Nina helped Paul get the tree in the house! Thanks, guys!

We have since finished decorating it but I haven't uploaded those photos yet. Next post.

Incidentally, Nina and Paul went snowboarding while she was here, but Nina is supposed to upload those photos. Nina ... ???

Nina brought us this cute hand cut wooden Christmas tree. It's already equipped with lights and everything!

If we weren't having a Solstice/Holiday party this year, I would use this tree as our holiday tree!

Ya'll don't forget to come over THIS Saturday (the 18th) at 7 pm so we can celebrate.

Hopefully the roads will be able to be traveled upon.

We're hoping for a big turn out.

It's time to celebrate this life!

Happy Holiday Season to All,

Paul & Cheri

Our Neighborhood

2010-12-07T14:45:00.000-05:00

This was yesterday morning. It has continued to snow ... there is plenty more snow to see now!

You've gotta admit, it's B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L. And it's silent and peaceful. Oh yeah, and it's cold too.

Mostly we've been driving around in the Explorer. No need to uncover this one for now.

Those icicles are almost down to the ground now! Yikes! Even the pumpkins are covered up ... which is good considering those should be Christmas decorations by now! :-)

Winter Wonderland

So peaceful ...

Our gorgeous new poster bed donated by Debbie, my sister in law. Our bedroom is starting to look like a master bedroom at long last! Bed looks great with the new desk too! Hooray!

I found firedandfused.etsy.com! Sheree made these tiles for me to put into my mosaic pieces. She is a genius. I am SO thrilled with these pieces! Aren't they incredible?

Nina arrived last night! It's fun to watch her perspective of the snow. She's got a real education ahead of her this week ;-).

I hope this beautiful snow does not indicate a repeat of last year's winter. We are supposed to warm up Thursday and Friday ... and have another good storm Saturday thru mid week next week with frigid temps and bitter conditions. Oh boy! Good for the ski slopes to get this snow ... but the frigid temps are no good!

Keep good thoughts for us ... heat is our friend. We are so grateful for the things we have to protect us from this part of mother nature. THANKFUL! Housing, food, heat, love, family, friendships, education, art, jobs, and good health just to name a few!

Life is good!

Thanks for visiting our neighborhood.

Paul & Cheri

For the past couple of weekends . . .

2010-12-05T22:59:00.000-05:00

Christmas tree bailer - put the tree in, pull out a "bundled up" tree --- much easier to transport! These two fellas in the foreground of this picture are major players in the Christa's world cast of characters (Terry (l), Mike (r)). But throughout the past couple of weekends they were just "Tree guys" ... driving tractors, loading trees, drilling holes, bailing, and laughing with everyone else. The whole season makes people in a good mood. Such a lovely magical time. Amen!

What it looks like when you're standing in a snow storm ... big fat fluffy flakes --- MAGIC!

The monster truck outside of Christa's Country Corner and Sam's Nursery, filled to the brim with children who came for the hay ride to the Christmas tree farm to select their PERFECT Christmas tree! It's been busy and FUN!

This, my friends, is one BIG Christmas tree --- bailed and ready to tie on a car/truck/van/rig!

Some of the guys waiting for a tree to bail and load ... frozen but smiling!

Our most precious customer --- Rudolph! She was absolutely adorable. And her dad was a good sport!

Sam (on the left) owns the Christmas tree farm and here he is with his brother David.

The proper way to catch snowflakes! These customers had the right technique and everything!

Happy Holidays! Christmas trees on board and ready to get decorated!

Children seeing snow - probably for the very first time. SO CUTE!

Paul worked in the customer lot, putting trees on the cars and keeping things moving along ... until today. Today they had him driving one of the hay wagons via tractor so the customers could get to the Christmas tree field and pick out their trees. He has had two weekends of absolute and complete FUN ... albeit through the snow, sleet, freezing rain and freezing temps. He is still grinning ear to ear. It is SO MUCH FUN to be around happy people who were having such a good time. I helped out inside the store where we handed out hot chocolate or hot apple cider to frozen happy people. Also, there was the opportunity for the customers to get lunch (sandwiches, soups, etc.) after the hay ride - or even before. There was a good time had by all!

Life is good up here folks! Go get a Christmas tree!

Happy Holidays!

Paul & Cheri

Update

2010-12-04T20:33:00.000-05:00

Wreath Season! Becky out did herself this year. The wreaths are gorgeous!

Resident Terrorist - Sulu

The closest these two will get to each other - and only because Spartacus is asleep! If he knew Sulu was this close, he would bare his teeth, hiss his heart out and stomp off in total and sheer disgust! Notice Artemis is no where to be seen. Today, however, Arti and Spartacus are on the big sofa and Sulu is in the wing back chair ALL IN THE SAME ROOM! We are finally making a little progress. Whoo hoo!

Our new and improved living room! It looks so nice! This view is as you enter the front door.

This view is looking from the dining room out to the living room - toward the front of the house.

Looking straight back from the entry to the hallway.

Looking straight into the room from the front door

This is a heater - a propane heater! This heater is installed in the STUDIO! Hooray! Finally warm enough again to work. Good thing! I have plenty to do!

Another view of the studio

And another

Paul's stuff in the studio

A mess, in case you don't know what one looks like!

The new desk in the bedroom - isn't she a beaut? I LOVE this desk!

More pics to come ...

Happy Trails

by the way, it's snowing, sleeting, raining and icing today. Think warm thoughts! Paul froze putting trees on the tops of cars for customers today. He wasn't the only frozen one! There were lots of workers who had turned into popsicles! 'Tis the Season!

Paul & Cheri

December 1st and all is well!

2010-12-01T20:50:00.000-05:00

We woke up to this --- so now all is as it should be for December 1st here in our mountains!

It is beautiful, crisp, quiet and winter.

There are lots of photos I want to show you

We have redone the formal living room

We have refurnished our bedroom

We have pretty much straightened out the art studio

And we are getting ready for Christmas

Our cats will actually go in the same room together (sometimes)

Artemis comes out of hiding twice a day now (to eat mostly)

Sulu is oblivious to the chaos he has caused in the cat chemistry of this household!

I have all this photographed ~ but the blog software is acting up

so maybe tomorrow!

Until then ...

Happy Snow Day!

Paul & Cheri

Reflections

2010-11-21T12:03:00.000-05:00

Life is good! Happy Thanksgiving!

Paul & I were having coffee/tea this morning and reviewing the local paper. I looked at the ads on real estate. I have NO idea what ever made me do that, as I am really not interested in real estate ... AT ALL. And we love our "Glover House" and have no real desire to move. We're still on our 10 year plan to fix things up and etc. There are a go-zillion properties for sale, of course. One really made my interest peak. It was a 1940 small farm house on acreage with an organic garden, stream, etc. The price was unbelievably reasonable. I have always had a soft spot and a romantic notion to own and work a farm. I have dreamed of such off and on throughout my life. My maternal grandparents had horses, chickens, rabbits, garden, etc. They lived in a tiny little house on a VERY small piece of land, yet they managed to have a barn, an exercise ring, a garden plot, a chicken pen with coop and a rabbit "nook". My grandfather raised horses for the Calvary (I even have his mule skinner papers!) and then later on raised and rode race horses. He literally dreamed horse racing until the day he passed on. I think that was where my love for the "farm life" must've bloomed and it blossomed every summer when I visited them. I did do the horse scene for a while in L.A. (of all places!) and I loved it. Anyway, when I saw the ad in the paper for that property my heart ached to really have it! All those dreams of living on a farm with places to roam and fresh food and animals rushed in and it was warm and fuzzy and glorious! And then I remembered what's involved in farming, caring for animals, keeping up with all that goes with farming, and I remember that side too, having been at my grandparents so much as a kid. The "to do" list was not as intimidating as having to do it at the age I now find myself! At then the big question came: At what point do you just resign yourself to saying you'll have to do that the next time around. Have I reached that time in my life? When I was busy being busy, I think I crested the hill and have begun to descend the other side. Now, how did that happen? The last trip I took to Atlanta sparked this very same argument with myself. Have I arrived at the place where some things are just no longer accessible and it's time to settle a bit? Now the gypsy blood in me is boiling in a complete uproar about this! I think I might resist retirement in the traditional sense of the word. Hmmmmm.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We are approaching Thanksgiving with a huge list of gratitude!

We are in good health and are in love with each other and protect and appreciate each other.

Paul's parents are doing well.

Our extended families are all healthy (hallelujah!) and secure.

Our adult children and grandchildren are all wonderfully vibrant. (Nina and Melissa have both been accepted to nursing school! Jon is thriving in the restaurant industry and Jennifer and Victor are thriving in the fitness industry and in ministry.)

We have a wonderful home, heat, running water, transportation, and the basic necessities (and then some) anyone needs to live in comfort and safety.

We can see, hear, speak, read, write, function in society, feel compassion and love.

We have wonderful friends to share life with.

We are able to volunteer in the community and give back a little of our good fortune.

We have been able to maintain enough income to keep our home, feed ourselves and help with some needs of others.

We are blessed.

We are grateful!

Happy Thanksgiving to you all,

Paul & Cheri

Gosh! It's November 15th already!

2010-11-15T12:54:00.000-05:00

Spartacus (l) and Artemis (r) have taken to literally hiding in the bathroom, behind the bathtub in a cubby hole. They can BARELY fit into this space. But apparently it is better than having to face the new resident of the Glover household. There is a lot of hissing and posturing going on right now. I sure hope they all get over their "stuff" sooner than later!

This, of course, is the reason for their bizarre behavior. Remember Sheep? Well, as he has chosen us, we've adopted him officially now. He's been neutered, had his shots and had a name change. He is now Sulu, after the incredible Mr. Sulu of Star Trek. Sulu likes to come inside for his overnight sleep. But he's still out exploring the depths of the universe during the day --- at least until the snow hits. Then we'll see what he decides about that! The older boys would love it if he just disappeared all together. I'm praying for harmony here. Please send good thoughts!

Station wagon Paul has taken some FABULOUS shots of the tree season this year. Here are a few.

Last I heard, we're expecting wet weather this week ... beginning as rain and ending as snow. I'm glad he was able to get such beautiful shots before this sets in!

In other news:

It's birthday quarter, and we'd like to just send out some happy birthday wishes to you late Scorpios and early Sagittarius folks. I've been terribly neglectful of these details of late, and I'm truly sorry. Seems our schedules have required more of us than I've had to give. I'm trying to get it all in order ...

So, Happy Birthday to:

Ruthie - who has moved to Virginia!, Oct. 24

Cyndie (my little sister) in Tennessee, Oct. 29

Pennisu, one of "the Pilgrims" in Orlando, Nov. 5

Valerie Marozzi - busiest mom in Orlando, Nov. 8

Dwayne neighbor in Orlando, Nov. 11

Beryl (Paul's mum) in Orlando, Nov. 20

Sabrina - friend of more years that most of you have been alive, in Atlanta, Nov. 22

I cannot BELIEVE it is mid November already. I know a lot of people who are saying that!

We will be having our usual "Adult Orphan" Thanksgiving here this year. If you are alone and have no one to make you Thanksgiving dinner, put your name on the list. The more the merrier! You are only required to show up - no cooking required. However, you must wear proper clothing (shirt, shoes, etc.)

SAVE THIS DATE:

December 18, 2010

We (Beth, Paul & I) will be having, what we hope to be, a very large celebration here at our house.

Winter Solstice/Holiday party!

Bring a dish to share and a friend or two.

Bring something to drink if you like a unique beverage, but we'll have a wine and beer selection ready for you when you arrive.

We'll begin about 7.

No ending time or date designated.

We are thinking it will be more of a Mexican/Mayan Fiesta with pork tamales, chicken and/or cheese enchiladas, a taco bar, some layered dips and etc. Just thought that would be a nice contrast to the normal cheese balls and turkey wraps!

We hope to have a bonfire (weather permitting) for some Solstice rituals (no human sacrifices tho!) and maybe those of you gifted with musical skills can bring your instruments and talents to share.

We'll have the house heated nice and warm!

PLEASE come by if you can, and stay a while! We really want to visit with all of our friends for a holiday celebration of friendship, gratitude, and happiness! If you'd like, wear your bells - after all, it's the holidays!

Happy November (already!)

Paul & Cheri

Trees and Trip

2010-11-08T09:12:00.000-05:00

Isn't this little guy the CUTEST Dracula you've EVER seen? And the one with the least amount of teeth!

So, Paul has been tractoring and harvesting trees since last Sunday (week ago yesterday) and has worked everyday since the start of the season! He's a TIRED and hurting unit when he gets home, but he enjoys doing it. What could be better than enjoying your day at work? Especially if you're going to work 7 day weeks! He will have close to 70 hours for this week. Wow!

He drives one of these, cab free most days because he enjoys the open air. But since it snowed last week, he may have been in a cab ... if he had any sense at all!!! ;-)

They are putting all the trees on pallets now ... and I presume this big red machine has something to do with that. Not too sure how it all works, but it's voluminous ... lots and lots of trees stacked up!

I took a Ninja trip to Atlanta --- in and out quietly and quickly. Had enough time to visit with this little guy. He came to the room and watched a movie and some cartoons. Guess that really wasn't visiting, but we were together! He was quite consumed with the movie. Can you tell?

From a different perspective. We were watching a Wizard of Waverly movie. He got pretty nervous at one point and got all the way off the bed and right under that tv. This is after I made him back up! So funny!

Here is Jane. Jane is my son's (Jon's) wife, Melissa's mom. (guess it would've been easier to just say daughter-in-law, eh? The kids threw her one heck of a surprise bash for her birthday! So very sweet. And Jane is one awesome woman, so it was WELL deserved! This is the true reason I was in Atlanta! Happy Birthday, Jane!

A momma and her son. So good to spend some time together. This is my son, Jon. He doesn't make it in to a lot of blog pics because he is ALWAYS working. Restaurant biz. Need I say more?

Jane and her fabulous kids (l to r) Johnny, Jane, Melissa and Michael. Johnny and Melissa are local Atlanta residents, however, Michael is a Jacksonville resident. There was a lot of traveling last weekend!

And this is the departure ... a VERY full car and some very precious cargo (the people).

Not pictured today are my daughter, Jennifer, who I was lucky enough to have an entire afternoon with on Saturday and dinner and a bit with on Friday night. She is doing GREAT, looks beautiful and is an astounding woman. SUCH a blessing to have her in such wonderful health.

I also got to have an appointment with Dr. Gunter and get an adjustment (very overdue). Boy, do I ever feel BETTER! Thanks, Dr. G!

I got to swing by and visit with my sister-in-law Debbie. She also seems great, happy and busy. The house is under some major rehaul and redecorating. It is looking fantastic. Such a wonderful transformation every time I drop in. I know it makes Debbie feel better to get it all "under control" once again.

I pulled into the driveway about 5pm yesterday and am ready for another week! It's getting on to "choose and cut" season, so we will be busy doing all that in another week or so. This will be my week to get myself organized and situated for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Lots to do in a small window of time. So ... I'm outta here.

Happy Trails to all,

Paul & Cheri

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-31T11:26:00.001-04:00

Once upon a time a contractor (enter Mikey Scott) was hired to expand Mark and Janine's home (mostly so we could all fit inside in the winter during the parties --- taking turns inside was getting cumbersome because you'd miss your turn if you weren't paying good attention!). Upon completion of said construction, Mikey decided to throw a bash at Mark & Janine's to celebrate the completed task. Here is how the story played out ... keep your eyes in the background for the beautifully completed addition to the home, brought to you by Mike Preslar (Mikey Scott). Here, as the warlock he really is, with his wife Cindy presenting their Halloween Bash!!

Belly dancing Beth and Eunice Janine posing at their very finest. Eunice Janine became a desperate housewife of Buck Mountain and is working up her very own lingerie line ... the starter collection being premiered right now. She is searching for investors and hopes to do a HUGE on line biz. Victoria's Secret, watch out!

Clint Eastwood keeping an eye on those rebellious hippies (Sam & Crista), as you would expect!

a long shot so you could see the additional square footage ... it was so roomy! Thanks, Mikey ... oh yeah, and Mark and Janine too!! So nice and warm and roomy!

She must be looking way off so she could try to read his future ... but I'm thinking as he is a warlock, she'll never get through the protective veil ... where is her other hand, do you think? A man in tights ... she just couldn't help herself!?

This poor fella had THREE hands ... yuk! And Weird! Made ya look!

Happy Fellas! Dan, the retired dude (hence the ear to ear grin) and Tony, the guy who's going on a motorcycle trip with Mark soon. All the guys are motorcycle enthusiasts ... nice ride guys - stay safe!

Beth without her mystic headdress and Dan, who is a friend to Mike & Tony and new comer to our little bash circle! ... great smiles you two!

No explanation necessary ... besides, I can't think of one.

Ernest Angsley here ... Ernest practiced some healing later in the night ... pretty good show, really!

Clint and Asham honing their gun skills. Asham rode in from Canada so we could all visit again. So nice to see friendly souls arrive from afar safe and sound. Ride safe to you as well, Asham.

T.R.O.U.B.L.E. 'Nuff said! Corey & Sona join the hippies

The Man

Asham documenting the healing by Ernest! SO much FUN!

Mark's beautiful daughters, Taylor and Emily. Delightful, intelligent, lively, loving and gorgeous girls. If you didn't meet them, you missed out.

Eunice finally took the curlers out of her hair and posed with Clint. SO sweet.

Another long shot so you can see the construction. On a serious note, the work is beautiful. If you need a good contractor, let me know. I have a recommendation for you ... and he doesn't always wear that pointy hat (it's usually a cowboy hat, really). :-) Beautiful work, Mike!

Gypsy Rose and Eunice ... looking for those investors and scheming the marketing ploy!

GREAT expression ... don't know what it was about but I'm betting Paul said something to elicit this response. What say you?

Thanks Mike, Mark and Janine for throwing SUCH a wonderfully fun bash!

And to the rest of you, Happy Halloween!!!!!

And they all lived happily ever after ...

Cheers!

Paul & Cheri

gosh but how time FLIES!

2010-10-25T21:42:00.000-04:00

We came back from Atlanta on Monday (just past) so Paul could ref the soccer games he'd promised ... and on Tuesday we went for a 17 mile bike ride on the Virginia Creeper Trail. It was a GORGEOUS trip ... all the way up in the car, the entire bike trip itself, and the whole ride home. It was GLORIOUS! And a wonderful way to celebrate our Lives and ELEVEN years of marriage (Happy Anniversary to us - and thank you all for your sweet cards and good wishes!)

Any of you know about Geocaching? Well this is Paul looking for his treasure with his GPS in hand. CRAZY ... We spent a little time finding treasures ... it was fun but the bike ride was better! (Don't tell Paul)

Must've found treasure!! It's a happy dance! :-)

Gorgeous river and rocks

Soooo much fun and such a lovely relaxing day!

Look at this beauty!

And colors for miles - although they unfortunately don't photograph as vividly as they appear to the naked eye!

Beauty - Mother Nature's gift to us ...

Where we were ...

Another gorgeous view on a gorgeous day!

A waterfall!!! Not a huge one, but water falling and pooling and being spectacular!

Paul - on a splendid day indeed!
Life is good!
We're so blessed.
Hope you are too, count the blessings!
Paul & Cheri

The Best Time

2010-10-18T07:25:00.000-04:00

We've had such fun! Just wanted to share this bit of a laugh ...

We're headed back up the mountain today.

I will REALLY miss hanging out with Christian. So will Paul Paul.

Grandparent hood - SPLENDID!

Blessings to all,

Paul, Cheri and Christian (the 3 stooges)

Lately!

2010-10-17T10:48:00.000-04:00

Gosh! We've been on an adventure!!!

We are currently in Atlanta rock climbing, river walking, hiking, skipping rocks, partying at fall festivals, enjoying grandparent hood. Will post again soon ... we return to real life in the mountains again sometime Monday or Tuesday.

Life is good!

Nana and Paul Paul

Gracious! We've been busy ...

2010-10-05T11:07:00.000-04:00

There have been projects! Paul poly coated the kitchen floor! YEAH!

It's nice and shiny --- and easy to keep clean now!

I wallpapered the dining room. Found some FABULOUS wallpaper about a year ago at Sherry's antique store ... thought I'd better get it on the wall before the wall got too cold. Almost waited too long!

It turned out beautifully ... now for the wood on the bottom of the wall!

Then sanding and re staining the trim ... then finishing the floor.

It's a ten year plan, remember? ;-)

There were little girls to watch cheer (Fabio's girls) at ASU!

An after the wedding "arrival home reception" to cater!

Congratulations Sonny & Kelly!!!

Paul's mum & dad (Beryl & Mel) came up for a short visit!

And they brought "Uncle Gordon" with them. Mel says he reckons they've been friends for 57 years! That's a l-o-n-g friendship! Uncle Gordon is camera shy and mostly covers his face when you take his picture.

There was a Birthday to celebrate too! So we had a small get together with some sweet friends and family to enjoy our PAUL! Happy Birthday honey.

Charles and Sabrina were here ...

Mark & Janine were here (happy anniversary you two! October 5th)

Uncle Gordon (with less of his face covered), Mel & "B" were here ...

Paul & I were here ... and a rabbit apparently ...

And Beth brought her dad (left), Carl and her brother (right) Daniel. These are some happy people!

A good time was had by all ... and now we're moving right along to the next Chapter ... whatever that may be.

Life is Good

Life is an Adventure.

Enjoy it! We do ...

Paul & Cheri

Sheep

2010-09-25T09:55:00.000-04:00

Our last beautiful sunflower of the year. Goodness knows, we had zillions. Farewell sunflowers, til next year!

Meet Sheep! This most adorable little guy was born at Jerry & Sandy Gwynn's house (across the street). He's chosen us as his adopta-home. He is the sweetest little fella, loves to be stroked and loved on and would give ANYTHING to get inside and play with Artemis and Spartacus. And I would let him inside but I'm afraid they might tear him apart. They talk to each other through the screen door for hours. I'm working on something to solve this because I sure don't want this little guy outside in the brutal winter. Currently he is an unnuetered male (tom cat). So we'll have to "fix" him to bring him inside. Apparently he was named "Sheep" because he looked like a baby sheep when he was born. And according to Jerry, he gets fed because the Sunday school lesson was about Jesus feeding (always) his sheep. Jerry sees this little guy as his sheep, so he feeds him. We feed him too sometimes. And he's finds his own meals, mostly butterflies and moths. SO ... there you have it! (We can't name him Ninja Kitty, Nina. sorry. He already has his name!)

Fall is settling in fast and furious. The leaves are rapidly turning now. The weather is turning to cooler and the rain is on its way. Dadgummit! I was having such a lovely time with blue skies, milder temps and lovely days. Oh well ... guess I'll just have to put on my big girl panties and get on with it! Tomorrow is supposed to be in the 50's and rainy ALL DAY. Shoot!

We have a couple of projects going on: kitchen floor poly coating, dining room wall paper, finishing the studio, and some other piddly things too numerous to mention. As the restaurant hours decrease, the projects will get checked off (I hope) before the winter is firmly set in. My fingers are crossed anyway! We are very close to pouring the concrete pad on the block for the building. THAT will be a good day! We apparently like to stretch things out around here! REALLY enjoy the process and study each level of progress. I bet our neighbors think we're nuts, but ... if they only knew!

The Periwinkle Pass Studio is moving in to the Mother's Nature's space in downtown Elk Park. Mother Nature's is moving down to Roan Mountain. When Periwinkle Pass moves, I'll be working in there some. Much closer to home for the winter! YAY! PLUS, it will give me a place to display my art work and a network outside of the house. The Avery Arts Council has invited me to display some of my stuff in their gallery too. (so excited!) Shannon and I are going to do another art show in October (the 9th) in Tennessee at some Festival. One more opportunity to make a few dollars and meet some more people before the weather is too cold to do it!

Sweet Hugh has been sent to Bowman Grey in Winston-Salem for some intensive treatment. If you can, please send him some good thoughts and strong prayers. I know he'd appreciate that. As of yesterday, he was tired but in good spirits and resting well.

Little Italy has changed its hours. That means a couple of things:

1. The summer residents and tourists are headed back to where ever it is they came from and,

2. Paul & I will be working at the restaurant less.

This will allow us to do a bit of visiting, socializing, traveling, resting and home work. It's been fun this summer meeting all those folks and pouring all those glasses of wine. But I'll be VERY glad to get a break and rest up ... and get to visit the kids and etc. You just never know what adventure you're going to get to have in life, huh?

Well, that's about all I can think of to document this morning. AND my coffee cup is empty so ...

must go ... work to do! Places to go! People to see! Coffee cup to refill!

Happy Weekend to all ....

Paul & Cheri

And so I ask you ...

2010-09-20T12:21:00.000-04:00

On top of the Hump Mountain last Wed.

I've been working on a wordy post in my head for a few days. This is the day to write it seems. Not even about the post I've been composing, but this will do anyway. The day is beautiful ... BLUE BLUE sky, mild temperature, slight breeze in a happy universe. But Spartacus and I are anxious and antsy. I wonder if this is a question, a lesson, or an annoyance of random proportion ... but this is the story of my morning in my own words!

I was happily emailing away when I realized that Spartacus was growling his head off. He only does that when he wants to me handle the situation. I went to the window to see what he was annoyed about and heard a man talking (loudly - obviously cell yell syndrome) but I couldn't see him. Then I heard a fit of dog barking ... a REAL fit. So, I went to the front door to look out to see what all the fuss was about.

I saw a pickup truck parked fully in the yard --- not on the street --- it had truly gotten over in the grass pretty close to the Saab, like maybe he was going to pop the hood and check out a problem or something, but we are quite used to folks parking and looking at the Saab, so I really thought he was just having a look-see. Although, most people park on the edge of the street, not fully in our yard. THEN I saw/heard his hound dog run up to him, leash dangling as he bent over to pet the fella and proclaimed "good boy! Did you get that cat?" WELL ... party OVER! I had to go put on my bra because it was 9:00 AM and I was still in my jammies with my coffee cup glued to my hand. But that all changed!

I went flying out the front door, beelined my red headed self straight to the man and stood glaring at him until he excused his loud mouthed self from the phone call and said in his red neck drawl "good morning" like a good ole' southern gentleman. But I already knew he was in disguise because I caught the moron red handed. So, I asked him if he was stuck or having some sort of trouble with his truck. He said no, he'd stopped to answer a phone call and his dog escaped from the back of the truck when he saw "that cat". (he was talking about our little Siamese adopt-a-kitty who has basically taken up residency here) I explained to him that it was rude to release a hound dog on someone else's property to chase the cat that LIVES at the house. That it was rude to park in some one's yard without their permission, and furthermore it was rude to talk loud enough to raise the dead, which at 9:00 am that is EXACTLY what he did since I work nights and that he had a phone for amplification, he did not need to scream as well! I explained that I thought it best if he moved on. He said he was sorry ("sorry about that, ma'am"), he collected his leash dangling hound dog in to his phallic symbol big duely truck with a Sheriff Frye sticker on the rear window, took his loud mouth and his cell phone and left. Bye-bye.

Best news is, the kitty just wandered back on to the porch and told me the whole story from his point of view, and I was truly glad to listen! It was a traumatic morning for all of us here.

Now I ask you, because I am seriously struggling with this: was that just a random idiot wandering through Elk Park? I'm fairly certain he was in law enforcement by the conversation he was having on the phone, which was sheer and malicious gossip; OR was there a lesson in there (like don't gossip on a cell phone when you yell because other people will hear yours and other's business); OR was it meant to be the question of the day: What just happened? Spartacus and I are all in a tither.

OK, turning the page and getting on to bigger and better things.

Random full moon approaching behavior, I guess!

Happy Monday,

Cheri and Spartacus

Mid Week

2010-09-15T10:59:00.000-04:00

It's been busy!

Father and daughter at the lake doing whatever it is they wanted to do!

Nina discovering how much force you have to use to press apples!

Nina and Paul pressing the apples they picked!

Long way to go here!

Plenty of apple juice --- turned out 5 gallons in one session - not bad!

He keeps telling me he is evolving ...

REALLY?

Nina!

Homemade apple juice --- soon(er or later) to be cider

Nina & Paul are in to Geocaching. Most of their plans include going to a cache or two (or ten). This is a waterfall in Newland by which I measure the outside temperature in the winter. Frozen in mid air is when I determine it is FREEZING! You get the idea ... apparently there were caches here, so they spent a good bit of time climbing and finding treasure. Made them both HAPPY! Yay!

GPS - necessary caching tool apparently!

The weather could NOT have been more perfect for Nina's visit. It has been simply GORGEOUS and splendid mountain weather. I'm not sure what Paul is presenting here ... but they walked through an old railway tunnel around here some place ... and climbed amongst the rocks on the river. Sounded as though they had a wonderful play day. They're having another one today! Hiking "The Hump" where Paul & I had our Father's Day hike. Beautiful day for it!

Paul, in junk bliss!

Nina,unfortunately,has to leave this evening. Boo! But there will be more photos today I am sure. Until later, happy trails and safe journeys!

Paul & Cheri and Nina!

Mid Week, I think

2010-09-08T11:06:00.000-04:00

I am not at all certain if it's Wednesday, but I think it is. Einstein was a big supporter of the whole "why memorize something you can look up" and take up all those brain cells. Save them for needed information! I guess at some point, I'll go to the calendar to figure out the day. Einstein is one of my heros. Tinkerbell is another. Explains a few things, huh?

It's a rainy, grey day. The kind that makes you want to stay in bed the whole day long! But, we all know that doesn't happen around here. I am waiting for my energy to build so I can prepare for our upcoming visit from Nina! She arrives Friday evening. And we are very looking forward to her visit. Somehow, my energy hasn't heard about it yet. And my old standby, french pressed coffee with honey and cream, didn't seem to work either. Hmmmm. This ole' grey mare just ain't what she used to be. Dang! Apparently, neither is the old stallion! When, I often ponder, did all this change take place? I certainly wasn't looking. Geez!

Fall is absolutely upon us here. Paul begins reffing soccer for the wee folks next week. He'll do under 8's and under 10's - or something like that.. Monday and Tuesdays. Soccer is always the marker for fall here for me. As I am looking out the windows this morning I notice the leaves are beginning to change color ... seems like it's a bit early but that is in line with what the entire season as been like! Everything has been early, by about one month. The day lillies, the black-eyed susans, the veggies, the apples and the heat. We were just very ahead of ourselves this year. Extreme winter cold and snow, extreme summer heat. Wonder what mother nature has in store for us this coming year!??!

* Our (Paul's sister's son) nephew Hayden had a birthday on the 3rd. Happy Birthday, albeit a tad belated, to you Hayden! Hope it was absolutely fabulous!

*My sister-in-law has a birthday on the 16th. Happy Birthday Debbie!

*The cook, Angelia, at the restaurant was blessed with a new grandson yesterday afternoon! Congratulations to all of you! And you can check out the restaurant website at http://www.fabioandhis4kids.com/ although there will not be pictures of the baby on there!

*The agricultural fair is in town this week and ... it is raining. Boo! Hopefully it will clear up tomorrow! At least we aren't going through what Texas is with Hermine. Best of luck and good wishes to all of you Texans who are battling the storm!

*Shannon and I are looking for some fall art festivals and shows to participate in.... if you know of any, please let us know! Minus the Wooly Worm Festival please!

*Our friend Mark got through his recent surgery and is mending with great strides and grace! YAY!

*If you would like to attend the next wine & food pairing dinner at Fabio's it will be Sept. 23rd. Call the restaurant for reservations at 828-733-1314.

*Labor Day has come and gone so most of the visitors to our area are out of here until the leaves present their spectacular color changing show - and then snow comes and the skiers arrive in town. Makes life a lot slower and calmer around here when the tourists take their break. The tree farms will now pick up activity getting trees ready for the season.

The following picture is our visiting kitty. He (I think) is just a kitten, and has decided he prefers to hang out here instead of whereever it is he lives. He loves our butterfly bush and I find desacrated butterflies every place. He sleeps on the chairs that are pushed up under the table out front. And he talks to my kitties on the other side of the front storm door for hours. Spartacus will fall asleep inside the door and the visitor falls asleep outside the door ... but they are positioned looking at each other on their individual mats. Animals are such a good example for every one getting along! With all the world news so dreary, I'd much rather report on visiting cats, wouldn't you?

Hope your week (what's left of it) is fabulous and filled with joy and laughter. Oh, and blessings! Lots of blessings!

Happy trails,

Paul & Cheri

Still have our sense of humor

2010-09-07T11:59:00.000-04:00

Sunday night we had a B.I.G. wine and food pairing dinner at the restaurant. It was big enough to use BOTH restaurants and still not have much room to walk. Everyone who came to eat and taste wine had a lovely time. All of us who were involved with putting on the gig had fun just watching the customers have fun. There were, however, some very over the top patrons. I'm quite sure they ended up with a heck of a headache yesterday.

Speaking of yesterday ... it was simply GORGEOUS here in the mountains. The weather was magnificent with high temps only in the low 70's. Lots of folks showed up to eat at the restaurant. MOST everyone had a lovely attitude, and a grateful, happy demeanor. Too bad that one bad apple spoils the whole barrel sometimes. We do our best to keep our sense of humor about us when someone is too important to wait his/her turn. (Happy Labor Day to you too, pal.) At any rate, it was a good day!

Will be back tomorrow for a real post for mid week. Just couldn't wait any longer to post this scenario of Paul and his new hair!!! Who wouldn't be happy with this man around?!?

Cheers!

Paul & Cheri

Mid Week

2010-09-01T09:16:00.010-04:00

We - Paul and I - have begun managing the cafe/bistro for Fabio. Little Italy is open from 3 - 9 pm Monday thru Saturday. We are trying to figure out what works best for our schedules and energy levels. It's a very interesting, entertaining and labor intensive undertaking! Visit the website if you "need to know" more about the business, the restaurants and etc., www.fabioandhis4kids.com.

Also, there is a food & wine pairing dinner this Sunday at 6:30 for 70 people. Whew!

This is the "bar" area, where you can belly right up and have a glass of wine!

The work station, where we spend most of our time

Penelope, the youngest of Fabio's beautiful 4 children.

Tiffany, who entertained the customers on Monday with her violin playing ... bravo!

left to right, Penelope, Fabio Jr, and Tiffany

And left to right, Fabio (owner/chef/friend) and his youngest, Penelope

Monday was Janine's birthday (left to right, Janine and Freddie, her sister). Freddie brought Janine in for a Flounder dinner for her birthday! Happy birthday, Janine! :-)
Charles came by yesterday with his Sabrina, and they finished the front "new" yard!!! There is now seed and straw on the dirt. Hopefully we will get a few rain drops from the hurricane that is expected to hit the coast and we'll get some grass growing! Thanks Charles and Sabrina!!!!

In other news, Paul had a bit of a pancreatitis attack last Wednesday. He's feeling all kinds of better now and we're very glad to have gotten to the bottom of the reason for the pain, and found some help for him! He's much happier now! ;-)

Periwinkle Pass Studio (www.periwinklepass.com) is moving to a much bigger space in downtown Elk Park and I will be trying to do all I can to help with that project. I hope to be running the shop one day per week and hanging my art there as our (Clayzaics) contract with BJ's expires next month and I will be putting my inventory in a new location. Fingers crossed! I have been selling some of my art- SO exciting!!!

I noticed this morning the leaves are beginning to change and fall a little bit. Boo! I'm going for denial that the weather is changing, but it's in the low 50's by sunrise and a bit chilly. I know winter will come, I'm just hoping it takes its sweet time. The cats and I are so enjoying the beautiful weather, opened windows, being without a sweater/jacket, and sunshine-y blue skies. Autumn skies are gorgeous, and every star in the solar system was shining last night. At one point Paul looked up, stopped in his tracks, and just said, "wow" ... it was brilliant with stars and you could see the entire milky way system as if it were in a book. I would be very happy if it just stayed like this!!!

The kids are all doing fine as far as I know, and Paul's parents are well and everyone is in their place and safe and sound ... therein lies all the blessings we could hope for!

Hope your world is safe and sound and you are smothered in blessings!

Happy Mid Week,

Paul & Cheri

New Mosaic Work

2010-08-24T18:40:00.012-04:00

This trinket box is spoken for. I loved making it. It has a heart inside as well. It's very girlee pink.

I'm only posting the mosaic work that is new. Shannon has created some FABULOUS new items and I'm waiting for the pictures on those. I also have some of those word things that I'm waiting on pictures of ... to be continued as far as that goes.

This is a set of 4 coasters ... the colors are not true in the pictures, unfortunately. They are very cool looking eggplant and pistachio green.

This piece was originally designed by my mentor (Chrissie Grace) and the pattern for her version was in her first book (Wild Tiles). About the only thing that resembles her pattern is that the body is a bee with wings. I took a lot of creative license and ran away with it. My first one of these was a gift for Paul's mum, but it was as well, different from this one. This one has lots of different media in it. The body and wings and part of the crown, along with the border are mosaic tile. The hair is made out of polymer clay, baked and glued on. The flowers are scrapbooking items. The letters, stems and face are painted (letters are stamped and outlined) and the crown is filled in with rhinestones. She was great fun to make and hopefully will bring great joy to the new owner!

This is a replica (ok, loose translation) of a cross I found on a pamphlet for a baptismal candle I had from my son's baptism 27 or so years ago! That one was blue and brown. I really like this one in green and green!

This just happened. Sometimes the tiles just go where they want!

This is porcelain and ceramic/china. Not my usual style but I was inspired to do it, and so here it is. It was a lovely piece to work on, and is sort of my pride and joy at this point. I'm donating half of the proceeds to Breast Cancer.

My second in the "Pink Porcelain" series as my daughter suggested I do an entire series. Well, so far there are 2 in the series! This one was great fun and was made mostly from a coffee cup that was so chipped I couldn't use it any more.

Obviously, this is a welcome sign. It was sold also. I loved this sign on the front of my house so much I guess I'll have to make another... luckily I know the formula by now. This was also inspired originally by Chrissie Grace, who is a genius in my opinion.

So, these are a few of the new items I had in the show. More to come, as the pictures are available, found or whatever. Also more booth pictures.

I hope to start an art blog this week, so this kind of stuff will be on it rather than on our personal blog, as we do enjoy keeping you up with our lives and the joys of mountain life. Stay tuned ...

Paul & Cheri

Riverwalk Arts Festival

2010-08-22T22:17:00.004-04:00

We did (indeed!) make it to the Festival. (hooray!) We survived the pre-show rush and the totally sleepless few nights that proceeded the festival. We had a fabulous time, in spite of the mist, sprinkles and torrential downpours of rain. (We hope the sun does not get confused about the date next year!) We have had several naps since we arrived home (teehee). We have also had numerous other things come about that put things into their proper perspective, for which we are both grateful and humbled.

Just a quick and sincere thank you to all who helped, supported, sent kind thoughts and words and held us together.

Janine, we love you and send you great gobs of blessings and a big heart filled with healing love while you move through the passing of your mom.

Blessings,

Paul & Cheri

Thank You!

2010-08-19T11:03:00.016-04:00

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

To all of you sweet and precious friends and family members, and neighbors who have been so patient and supportive of the upcoming art festival!

To my sweet daughter Jennifer, who drops whatever she's doing to look at a picture of something I've emailed so I can have her input, which I trust implicitly.

To Janine, who has ewwwed and ahhhhed at all the right times, and even has literally delivered chicken soup and gatorade to my under the weather husband so I wouldn't have to be interrupted (and I don't think she trusted me to drive either!)

To Cyndie, Nina, Sabrina and Beth who have encouraged and offered words of belief and happiness for my being able to do this since it is my heart's desire.

AND

To all of you who have nodded and smiled at just the right time after the question, "What do you think of this? Is it the right color? Is the size right? Do you think anyone will like this?" And on and on. I do appreciate each and every ounce of energy you have spent in support of this passion of mine. And I just want to thank you now, before I glue one more tile, or paint one more brush stroke, or grout one more piece, or ... well, you get the picture! I am overwhelmed with gratitude and joy.

And speaking of picture, this morning when I walked in to the studio it pretty much looked like a bomb went off on the table! Holy smokes! Hope the clean up fairy comes soon!

The grouting table was still set up from yesterday, when I finished all the grouting (5 pieces!) at exactly 8:04 pm! Neighbors, thank you for not calling the home owner's association on us for all the mess (yeah, right! in Elk Park! I've still got my sense of humor!) Oh, and not picketing us for the grass that is now knee high to a giraffe. Thanks for not reporting that also ~ and feel free to cut it if it's too high for your expectations. It'll be next week before I get to it and with all the rain, well, it might be a good idea to tend to it. (PLEASE! - HaHA!)

This is one of my biggest fans. I know that because of the hours he spends in my company. Even if he is sleeping, he's a very BIG comfort factor for me. Thanks, Artemis. And thanks for warning me about the washing machine overflowing too ... big help! Don't know what I'd do without your curiosity and love.

And THIS MAN! I just can't find enough words to tell him how much I appreciate his support, advice, critique, enthusiasm, partnership and love. He has been the sweetest, most patient man in the world during this process. The other night he asked to see my inventory. After I showed it to him he truly looked so surprised at how much there is. You would think as many boards as he's cut, and trips to Michael's as he's escorted me on, and just things like that --- that he would've realized I was making stuff! Yesterday he attached hooks and eyes to word boards, and made display boards for the booth, and sympathized with my cut to pieces fingers, and smiled and was involved all with the stomach flu (or whatever that thing is going around that my sister called the "twisted stomach")!! Paul, thank you honey. You really ARE the best.

This guy keeps me in line ... and he keeps the stepping stones warm until I can get to tiling them! He also steals every last piece of ribbon he can find. Spartacus, you rock, buddy! Thanks for the support and the cuddles during nap time!

These are the display boards Paul made for Shannon's jewelry and ornaments. She's coming over this afternoon so we can paint and mock up a booth. Only 2 more days and we have to be there at 6:30 AM on Saturday. Did you know there are two 6:30's in a day? The show is from 9-5. I couldn't figure out how it was going to work, us setting up at 6:30 until my sweet friends, Janine and Edie explained to me that it was the AM selection of 6:30. Well! *Expletive here!* Who knew! And who's going to be responsible because we all know I cannot function until at least 8:00 AM! Yikes! Nor can Shannon - which is why we need the mock up session created in an afternoon time slot --- when we are awake and jamming, just naturally!

Work in progress ... still ... Just cleaned 3 grouted pieces, glued cork board onto the most recent "Notes" board, touched up some painting on a hanging, and thought about eating lunch.

Our LARGE display boards for the mosaic pieces to be painted and assembled this very day! They are 6' tall by 4' wide, and will be painted happy bright colors and then assembled in a big triangle for the middle of the booth. I'm beginning to feel excitement in my soul again --- very much like doing a show ... you know, one with the curtain going up and stuff. Just different ...

Some of the pieces on the "holding table" after being grouted yesterday.

Shannon and I are also having a photo shoot this afternoon, so be prepared - there will be a blogpost with all the new stuff. She has some really FABULOUS new pieces I can't wait to share with everyone! Consider yourself warned!

Some of the word signs, only these are in the very beginning stages of production. Wait til you see the final version - they rock!

And then there is the normal life that keeps on running in the background ...

This is the young lady that I mentor from Crossnore! She came over the help on Sunday ... and then took a break to go and see the goats, of course! She is an natural born instinctive artist. It is so nice to have the youthful, innocent, open outlook. Not allowed to show faces, but she is a stunning young lady, and informed me that in 1 month and 34 days (isn't that 2 months?) she will be 16 years old! Sounds like we might be partying in October ... FOR SURE!

And look what Mr. Boone has in his goat pasture now! Emus!

Just for the random Elk Park news, in case you're living for that!

Well, must get back to the work!

Thank you all again, from my very happy heart, soul, and core!

Cheri

p.s. Paul is feeling MUCH better today ~ thanks for all who've asked after him.