tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29527249730043884382024-03-16T14:53:01.791-04:00Middlewood Journaldrawing inspiration from natureHelenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.comBlogger257125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-13021537245581076802020-08-29T17:26:00.017-04:002020-08-29T17:42:52.659-04:00Green Coneflower, Cutleaf Coneflower (Rudbeckia laciniata)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZn58KH_A6hhLW6mvi5If_PGAZ-Rsfl6cle7kYwpp4q4KLG_Ba4ZArzZ_RRXY4Q3MuLF7_hqy6eNAzsS0yQnQV_IWr7PoVSJhpSYz5HnDSewxiZcMAlr9RcyX9wXS6C3CfXKvY9yaR8fY/s1800/EC61A3C0-37DB-416F-9878-5D278239139C.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZn58KH_A6hhLW6mvi5If_PGAZ-Rsfl6cle7kYwpp4q4KLG_Ba4ZArzZ_RRXY4Q3MuLF7_hqy6eNAzsS0yQnQV_IWr7PoVSJhpSYz5HnDSewxiZcMAlr9RcyX9wXS6C3CfXKvY9yaR8fY/w410-h512/EC61A3C0-37DB-416F-9878-5D278239139C.jpeg" width="410" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It’s hot and humid around here thanks to the remnants of Hurricane Laura moving past us to the north. And, since I broke my ankle in July and am recently out of the BOOT but still with a tender ankle, I admit to being just a little wimpy. For these reasons I brought some flowers from the haha to draw in the cool of my little studio. This one is called Green Coneflower, or sometimes Cut-Leaf Coneflower due to its beautiful lobed lower leaves. It’s a native plant, and a favorite of all kinds of pollinators - butterflies, skippers, bees, flies, etc. It came as a starter from a friend and quickly became one of my favorite pollinator plants. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is a work in progress. Check back for more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfvtEChErd-Fgx43VqIKvjPiLwqhpTHDgiY9S9Ha3ZshA2fHVFMcJQXwfoy-ezGcGLs1jL8Io5XSUOc4kFSdjs6bWl1cFAeNdLpCUVDMUh9_nZl4ik3BSD2atnkJM7KVVZj-v2JJWZIk/s2048/777ABF08-23E3-43B5-B18A-181DB57540E3.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmfvtEChErd-Fgx43VqIKvjPiLwqhpTHDgiY9S9Ha3ZshA2fHVFMcJQXwfoy-ezGcGLs1jL8Io5XSUOc4kFSdjs6bWl1cFAeNdLpCUVDMUh9_nZl4ik3BSD2atnkJM7KVVZj-v2JJWZIk/w384-h512/777ABF08-23E3-43B5-B18A-181DB57540E3.jpeg" width="384" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Green Coneflower in my pollinator garden.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvGV7lQ1d4APBFn_GX-Egh_IcAnZtzP9k5fwhUftOfN2ufda_oZ2cwMSl1dqU9l2e5KguglM5KJRHoTcMiYfqYWg-DdUOpRvJrSSKRX6dn6zoGrW7v5dDGwBW-hx9bVtOdoavSBVVCgI/s2041/2CCB46DB-AAA6-4C62-AB82-DD1E6B2C07FC.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2041" data-original-width="2041" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrvGV7lQ1d4APBFn_GX-Egh_IcAnZtzP9k5fwhUftOfN2ufda_oZ2cwMSl1dqU9l2e5KguglM5KJRHoTcMiYfqYWg-DdUOpRvJrSSKRX6dn6zoGrW7v5dDGwBW-hx9bVtOdoavSBVVCgI/w410-h410/2CCB46DB-AAA6-4C62-AB82-DD1E6B2C07FC.jpeg" width="410" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Several pollinators on Green Coneflower in the pollinator garden.</div><br /></div><br /><p></p>Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-49935544623404656902019-05-13T22:06:00.002-04:002019-05-13T22:06:58.867-04:00Woodland Wildflowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcKrLz8Qi6OinnkicETZU0MP0iiNf3Cm2Qy_WNGi9ph3mafdllGlXLySjMQewjmJssb_tlcriIM23aN1TAVncW_zjQjc7mYFKxHdDB02jWVeiz2xCXomHkDo54DIom_LijztnAhyphenhyphen7ur8E/s1600/IMG_6278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1161" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcKrLz8Qi6OinnkicETZU0MP0iiNf3Cm2Qy_WNGi9ph3mafdllGlXLySjMQewjmJssb_tlcriIM23aN1TAVncW_zjQjc7mYFKxHdDB02jWVeiz2xCXomHkDo54DIom_LijztnAhyphenhyphen7ur8E/s400/IMG_6278.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We hadn't gone far today before I noticed this plant I've seen in our woods for years. I used to know the name of it, but I can't remember at the moment. Since I'd already taken Roxie for a walk today, I decided to give the old girl a break and sit right there, half way down our driveway, and draw this dainty plant. We sat in dappled shade, and listened to birds singing for a few minutes before drawing. Have you ever heard the call of the Yellow-billed Cuckoo? It sounds a little like a monkey - something like this: Cu-cu-cu-cu cu-cu-cu-cu Kalp! Kalp! Kalp! The Wood Pewee had a whiny little Peee-weee song. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I was drawing a black inch-worm caterpillar dropped onto the journal and proceeded to inch his way to the top of the page. Once he was there I was able to get a small twig under him and move him to the leaf litter. The huge ant that visited moved a lot faster, and was hardly a nuisance at all. (For the record, my only rule in nature journaling is that I must draw any insect that visits the page.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRQeGZUM9R5MF85q080lXiol93_5YUUUyKiE0n6F4T38LOO9acw-UIHnlcrubrujemWUUH_PNWLxz9BNY7ASJoD5FuiX_tO8vQ8olQAKiEfwFexxh2BCvwdIKtLKymMx3zB5pYVyTKOk4/s1600/75C56B49-C062-4BBB-9C98-91B13DC18FF5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRQeGZUM9R5MF85q080lXiol93_5YUUUyKiE0n6F4T38LOO9acw-UIHnlcrubrujemWUUH_PNWLxz9BNY7ASJoD5FuiX_tO8vQ8olQAKiEfwFexxh2BCvwdIKtLKymMx3zB5pYVyTKOk4/s200/75C56B49-C062-4BBB-9C98-91B13DC18FF5.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A few feet away from where I sat grew this Violet Wood Sorrell (above) and White Milkweed (below), other woodland wildflowers that like a shady situation. The milkweed was hosting a few bees, so I kept my distance. I didn't want to interfere with their feast.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIeCmPYR7Gs9RrTv6PGMBj_7CDGFCIEHMYieOM72-4rTDbeoFeulUAhN9ajOY1G2V03wmg_ujtW1p-8xltsKtLtx5FlV0dYqv8zfxhji3t5fZPnVXMA7R8u0oGxlR77aV8huZ4oMy7xRg/s1600/IMG_6271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1504" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIeCmPYR7Gs9RrTv6PGMBj_7CDGFCIEHMYieOM72-4rTDbeoFeulUAhN9ajOY1G2V03wmg_ujtW1p-8xltsKtLtx5FlV0dYqv8zfxhji3t5fZPnVXMA7R8u0oGxlR77aV8huZ4oMy7xRg/s320/IMG_6271.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-23156177551755559882019-05-13T11:32:00.000-04:002019-05-13T11:32:54.761-04:00Black-eyed Susans, Asters, and Hydranges<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXz04oYtbSWe-z1hiBxTpHhXhelfQmRlNICFiCjLroHfazay8aKFGicn56KH448cJ21J0vY-h_xumhXZBCKqWw0TnQcUgBLOCYamKMqaUFYSEsCzR79Upag6Hcoz-OmiX0XVDxTCEOpc/s1600/IMG_4589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1369" data-original-width="898" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBXz04oYtbSWe-z1hiBxTpHhXhelfQmRlNICFiCjLroHfazay8aKFGicn56KH448cJ21J0vY-h_xumhXZBCKqWw0TnQcUgBLOCYamKMqaUFYSEsCzR79Upag6Hcoz-OmiX0XVDxTCEOpc/s400/IMG_4589.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm happy to say that I now have a laptop that works, so I can do blog posts again. It has been a while! <br />
<br />
This image, called "Summer Tangle," is from late last summer. I started it at our tiny mountain cabin in Western North Carolina on a lazy day full of bright sun and cool breezes. I pulled a small table out onto the deck and had my vase of flowers in front of me, as well as my paper and drawing tools. Bees buzzed around the flower garden, a lazy skink made his way along the rail. Sweet Roxie was asleep at my feet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoZYqcCMT4dQpM7jVTQeVfp2NWRIU1v-ZpnRRrX61HmOKIXwUK8SLndHB8A2jg6eS5CRy5A4hZ5gbLTLqoxnDO1A5jox-GRsJMBtLaI1gHKkFIDIFVu2R8qekglCy7ec6EKd5A4NeSwE/s1600/IMG_4446.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMoZYqcCMT4dQpM7jVTQeVfp2NWRIU1v-ZpnRRrX61HmOKIXwUK8SLndHB8A2jg6eS5CRy5A4hZ5gbLTLqoxnDO1A5jox-GRsJMBtLaI1gHKkFIDIFVu2R8qekglCy7ec6EKd5A4NeSwE/s320/IMG_4446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCktDt-c0QrV0haqUJIPzVm94pNhpfH_iXJ8Xtn2TB-hGsNaGZP9a7EE2C7wixV3UDu4uGH4hw3C299MnD894xo9wufSW5T8N8PMYibqndZ3jZB2EHQUMFc28G7fp_IJAr6qlVim6Oyc4/s1600/IMG_4442.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCktDt-c0QrV0haqUJIPzVm94pNhpfH_iXJ8Xtn2TB-hGsNaGZP9a7EE2C7wixV3UDu4uGH4hw3C299MnD894xo9wufSW5T8N8PMYibqndZ3jZB2EHQUMFc28G7fp_IJAr6qlVim6Oyc4/s320/IMG_4442.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I worked through the afternoon and again after supper. It took weeks of off and on work sessions to complete. Prints were made of the pen and ink drawing, then I painted them with handmade watercolors, a new passion of mine. (Post on that subject coming soon!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd98TNGr7oY1kVaXCv8l8fgTfh2zCjMJnZTm2a3Q8ZkTeuBMbMrQyEvyfYbOQ3LzqJjd2_K-pv9-YhkVJ3NBcC0Cp9bVpVmOMAej73JJOcZ39teS6ZimzHSzkfMRHCspJflTJwX8R5iX4/s1600/IMG_4507.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd98TNGr7oY1kVaXCv8l8fgTfh2zCjMJnZTm2a3Q8ZkTeuBMbMrQyEvyfYbOQ3LzqJjd2_K-pv9-YhkVJ3NBcC0Cp9bVpVmOMAej73JJOcZ39teS6ZimzHSzkfMRHCspJflTJwX8R5iX4/s320/IMG_4507.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_951952206"></span><span id="goog_951952207"></span><br /></div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-43482368733915267462017-04-17T13:20:00.003-04:002017-04-17T13:20:53.220-04:00Art Show! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1B7lzoenkDpE056x01Ybm9HMfKJn0CSVXjCSsROspSNnmzP0CkYqq3rEbCB_fSOYPJy_LBTI_2fPGaPKHwiN0oVbmPiF-YZq3vGCo8exwtgYs0_HoARaQEV4yoWb1GeivdS_Y-1A970A/s1600/IMG_2034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1B7lzoenkDpE056x01Ybm9HMfKJn0CSVXjCSsROspSNnmzP0CkYqq3rEbCB_fSOYPJy_LBTI_2fPGaPKHwiN0oVbmPiF-YZq3vGCo8exwtgYs0_HoARaQEV4yoWb1GeivdS_Y-1A970A/s400/IMG_2034.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
What a thrill (and how energizing!) to be asked to exhibit my art. I've worked hard to put together an assortment of my super-squigglized pen & inks drawings, hand colored with watercolor. All originals and prints will be for sale, and signed copies of my book, <i>Middlewood Journal - Drawing Inspiration from Nature</i>, will be available. Below is the basic info. You are all invited to come, and bring your friends! Can't wait to see you all.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginA1AIK9x2U_Th1D4rqrG4qM6uKcqWDVUb2fq9TAKPA5nAxAqlhJRP0uFINfCYmYNBTa_paZHh5T20BAvzm_pHpJTp2yCmneb-dqtUxoQpDk4BxRw2GbpQCwB5jpb4ZLGtYLjPPbFe-Y/s1600/FullSizeRender-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEginA1AIK9x2U_Th1D4rqrG4qM6uKcqWDVUb2fq9TAKPA5nAxAqlhJRP0uFINfCYmYNBTa_paZHh5T20BAvzm_pHpJTp2yCmneb-dqtUxoQpDk4BxRw2GbpQCwB5jpb4ZLGtYLjPPbFe-Y/s200/FullSizeRender-20.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What: Nature Art Exhibit by Helen Correll</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Where: Summit Hills Retirement Community</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
110 Summit Hills Drive</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Spartanburg, SC 29307</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When: Opening Tuesday, April 25, 4 - 6:30</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Duration: The show will hang for one month </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-59210573327291746732017-04-06T11:56:00.001-04:002017-04-06T11:56:32.031-04:00Dog Hobble (Leucothoe fontanesiana)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FJ5iXQwFX1h2_1zBTfEsLRDmlAOOZN-v6UNsJLPpFxe6hF7qzxUnDfm3LrAY0wVqchxys72Fc6cJOIZ56qM2ZIYYoiM_12D9Yztg85gDkOATbx-X_rfw6jC9-_jcTxJ3BMfTm28hMrY/s1600/Dog+Hobble+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FJ5iXQwFX1h2_1zBTfEsLRDmlAOOZN-v6UNsJLPpFxe6hF7qzxUnDfm3LrAY0wVqchxys72Fc6cJOIZ56qM2ZIYYoiM_12D9Yztg85gDkOATbx-X_rfw6jC9-_jcTxJ3BMfTm28hMrY/s320/Dog+Hobble+2.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This drawing was done in mid-January (so a little late) but I love January, and on this day I had my two 13 year old students with me so I thought it would be fun to share. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The weather turned warm that Wednesday, so even though January days are short, at least it wasn't cold, and we decided to head down to the river to draw. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first thing we came to is a plant that grows so thickly along the edge that the early settlers gave it the nickname "Dog Hobble" due to the fact that while out hunting bears, their dogs always got caught up in this plant and the chase would end. It grows on the steepest banks, and sports leathery evergreen leaves. Its neighbors are Mountain Laurel (here) and Rhododendron (mountains). There is also a coastal species.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We played a little (and one of us climbed trees) and then settled down to draw a while. Before we left the temperature dropped below my comfort zone (kids don't care!) and a slight breeze kicked up. Next time I will take an extra layer. I mean, what was I thinking? It was mid January! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stay tuned for an update photo of the Dog Hobble flowers!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzT_Aa_dCevH8fQWsVeGsJG6y2Ut9JgzIjhx_8X9vifvjVMgwoRobjBUpKVfYqBmUHlciMAIxXnqCD8KPfHhJbxPloY0WM1ez6CB5CO9pCsvr8g3HKmYb-wsHri4fIHH0WcgMtrovr5DI/s1600/FullSizeRender-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzT_Aa_dCevH8fQWsVeGsJG6y2Ut9JgzIjhx_8X9vifvjVMgwoRobjBUpKVfYqBmUHlciMAIxXnqCD8KPfHhJbxPloY0WM1ez6CB5CO9pCsvr8g3HKmYb-wsHri4fIHH0WcgMtrovr5DI/s320/FullSizeRender-16.jpg" width="306" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABMbFvomL4t-Zv2ipDNlzX-skF0JH8NbVGUCrn_Uc2HyXgX0PVmYsrQo664bFZwr89WV3pTopo8H71bqKusuOAXISiPcEH00U6myK0RuJB4Y0pySoxo0zB1qyo7YgKLnPEkD_FYmf0ho/s1600/FullSizeRender-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABMbFvomL4t-Zv2ipDNlzX-skF0JH8NbVGUCrn_Uc2HyXgX0PVmYsrQo664bFZwr89WV3pTopo8H71bqKusuOAXISiPcEH00U6myK0RuJB4Y0pySoxo0zB1qyo7YgKLnPEkD_FYmf0ho/s320/FullSizeRender-17.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMr0SazBcYdWwrocPLcT_7D0k5-ze7xalNZe7yQEZm12AgN-HoSS6jEaJ01583WjnuHMJ1SVBMqrYPMIKRFjVDNHnVrriMc1v-Tp4A5r7U93QH8aY5ztBga5RIrtUv_6Isrgp6VMOMAY/s1600/FullSizeRender-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMr0SazBcYdWwrocPLcT_7D0k5-ze7xalNZe7yQEZm12AgN-HoSS6jEaJ01583WjnuHMJ1SVBMqrYPMIKRFjVDNHnVrriMc1v-Tp4A5r7U93QH8aY5ztBga5RIrtUv_6Isrgp6VMOMAY/s320/FullSizeRender-18.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-82982172184958318152017-03-30T15:41:00.002-04:002017-03-30T17:33:21.081-04:00Winter Leaves of Cranefly Orchid (Tipularia discolor)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTU3rysQzO-ZUN_6R0vf6OSJ7bu44-Kv50kG20JAUpwBanNqDdzTcDWbIebW1IOE35NK8zZ6aAI59vv1jvjmv_fbhv-iElw8vMWA7TPub-DkBzvw3Dk-tCTRXwetZyO9B7eOjeWpNkDSU/s1600/FullSizeRender-11.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTU3rysQzO-ZUN_6R0vf6OSJ7bu44-Kv50kG20JAUpwBanNqDdzTcDWbIebW1IOE35NK8zZ6aAI59vv1jvjmv_fbhv-iElw8vMWA7TPub-DkBzvw3Dk-tCTRXwetZyO9B7eOjeWpNkDSU/s400/FullSizeRender-11.jpg" width="292" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Happiness is living in woods that are full of Cranefly Orchids! Of course, the flower stalks in summer are so thin, and the tiny pale flowers so difficult to spot, it's hard to remember they are growing all around you. The leaves don't come out until winter, when you must look for the pointy green leaves poking out of the deep fall leaf litter. You won't see the beautiful color of the back of the leaves because it doesn't show. (Be sure to flip a leaf to see it!) In short, no matter how many plants are growing in the woods, most people (me included!) usually walk right past them year round.<br />
<br />
Still, both phases of the Cranefly Orchid are beautiful and worth the effort to find them. Last week I decided to draw this nice patch of plants (each plant is one leaf, with one flower stalk to follow) that I found. It was in a tricky spot on a steep hill, with a wild grapevine growing through. The tendrils of the grapevine had pulled down last summer's seed pods. I thought it a lovely "still life," so I settled down to work in the afternoon sun. Chilly air swirled in the woods, so the sun on my back felt heavenly. Daisy and Dukie sat nearby, protecting me. Ha! They were mostly waiting for me to remember the dog treats in my pocket. We stayed for about an hour, with me getting this sketch right, and the pups getting an occasional treat for good behavior. <br />
<br />
Back in the studio I worked to find the right color to put on the upturned edges of the wrinkled leaves (I saw one little lip, and took artistic license to add more). In the woods they look as purple as can be, but by actually cutting a leaf to bring in, I saw that neither the reddish purple nor the blueish purple were correct. In the end a mixture of the top purple and burnt umber gave me a decent color match. (bottom color)<br />
<br />
Any time now, as our planet moves a bit more around the sun and gives us true spring, the Cranefly Orchid leaves will start to wither, and flower stalks will think about shooting skyward. As for me, I plan to tag the spot where these leaves are so I'll know where to find the summer flowers. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaA18YN2decQRtRkV0GOO6T6rJZ6cOkcuiIKunNhqmrjXK-oYXMN8NeN4sYbwRhN0b0JnNNcfXJaNpAQ_hfQnl848JweNDF4Lr2vIg58clXplXujYsKlYJjafQhiKpTeVk5bhlcqnqaJI/s1600/FullSizeRender-12.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaA18YN2decQRtRkV0GOO6T6rJZ6cOkcuiIKunNhqmrjXK-oYXMN8NeN4sYbwRhN0b0JnNNcfXJaNpAQ_hfQnl848JweNDF4Lr2vIg58clXplXujYsKlYJjafQhiKpTeVk5bhlcqnqaJI/s320/FullSizeRender-12.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Work in progress</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTY00-cok-VCDdy3jVd7lQz8I0Fjs0CGZUyCz6j2qGK_GOZmgvhgtYFlE9CVLJMiAvxdpZ6axTKwePJTkTePfdEKuMV2YRGLQkBEHglK8VYIwEdGJWYihjdsNFHc2NXYzWuCMkhYmzDRo/s1600/FullSizeRender-14.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTY00-cok-VCDdy3jVd7lQz8I0Fjs0CGZUyCz6j2qGK_GOZmgvhgtYFlE9CVLJMiAvxdpZ6axTKwePJTkTePfdEKuMV2YRGLQkBEHglK8VYIwEdGJWYihjdsNFHc2NXYzWuCMkhYmzDRo/s320/FullSizeRender-14.jpg" width="184" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stalk 15" to 18" each flower the size of your pinkie fingernail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-66613124740597784912017-03-12T12:48:00.000-04:002017-03-12T12:48:00.341-04:00Ebony Spleenwort & Nescafe Jar<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHHu3xIn0r-7qgRHEKQkhiGeq1fsEEpilXYJ9pum4-zYY25qT-7kG4NnVdRAOhqkJZXTa94jN5yoxxSRXFJIPHFBqwsN3Py_XlQ-ie5dZSyPspJ3QdiEDl0PnFPtlmXQqwGSe_nu9kAY/s1600/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHHu3xIn0r-7qgRHEKQkhiGeq1fsEEpilXYJ9pum4-zYY25qT-7kG4NnVdRAOhqkJZXTa94jN5yoxxSRXFJIPHFBqwsN3Py_XlQ-ie5dZSyPspJ3QdiEDl0PnFPtlmXQqwGSe_nu9kAY/s400/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Last month I spent an hour or so at an old homesite in the woods just above Lawson's Fork, where over the years humans have left their stuff. A quick glance would take in the old chimney, the basement hole, and maybe the pipes or the barn's angular tin roof resting on the ground, but a lot of what is there is being eaten by the forest, sinking into the rich black soil of the spot. Bricks covered in moss are everywhere, as well as old rusty springs, remains of an old truck, and glass bottles and jars. I found pieces of an old turquoise mug that had broken years ago, and a little Nescafe' jar with its lid. That one came back to the studio to hold pencils or paintbrushes, but other jars have become greenhouses and are full of moss, grass, or the small fern called Ebony Spleenwort.<br />
<br />
Remember when "tin cans" had to be opened with the pointy side of a "church key" opener? There were a lot of those punched, rusty cans around, although difficult to pick out from the leaf litter. But take your time and you start seeing other things. Once I found an old automobile horn (the kind that was outside the window and had a bulb at the end to squeeze for a honk), and down in the earth, a bottle that had once held some yucky "black draught" medicine. Tiny bits of the history of Spartanburg County.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuxpc_QtxpvVe5nP8r2CCOzWHAE1j-6UOWsqijgZLJfmkhyphenhyphenm8vblw226LjNvavcOOr2Mkvm0p7rj7lvE8S3ZHDJcWb4qtxEPw1L_Q0LJGJGOmSXD7U_XMQgbIuXq0bxHp42Zt3BQtxzMQ/s1600/FullSizeRender-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuxpc_QtxpvVe5nP8r2CCOzWHAE1j-6UOWsqijgZLJfmkhyphenhyphenm8vblw226LjNvavcOOr2Mkvm0p7rj7lvE8S3ZHDJcWb4qtxEPw1L_Q0LJGJGOmSXD7U_XMQgbIuXq0bxHp42Zt3BQtxzMQ/s320/FullSizeRender-9.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenhouse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfeu_MmbRKyIyrQ5eGYJm7FAS33WMVFfQWFnoVRbjOqwM81ehMicGN02X0aXAlh7ucoewlfgYH9kF8h6RYwkZwqj2IjL7D7oCrBumgNqYEPTV7vdbJWA_QCd6NlHWu_KXxFoCjZR3ayw/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfeu_MmbRKyIyrQ5eGYJm7FAS33WMVFfQWFnoVRbjOqwM81ehMicGN02X0aXAlh7ucoewlfgYH9kF8h6RYwkZwqj2IjL7D7oCrBumgNqYEPTV7vdbJWA_QCd6NlHWu_KXxFoCjZR3ayw/s320/IMG_0219.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lightbulb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGU22_hnBkbBVbt1fWEhRZxA-UhbPLDpAmxIq9CW3cVmR2UwDXkx4zNCynqWLVry8hdb8alX3TMMmCR8Ju4btKxF6fltL4smqlr85A0SaxUvZ92hGXF_VZEOvlupq0EUqZ1iX7goJ3iw/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijGU22_hnBkbBVbt1fWEhRZxA-UhbPLDpAmxIq9CW3cVmR2UwDXkx4zNCynqWLVry8hdb8alX3TMMmCR8Ju4btKxF6fltL4smqlr85A0SaxUvZ92hGXF_VZEOvlupq0EUqZ1iX7goJ3iw/s320/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front grill of old truck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUFwZM59qKuvFiMz_6drrZdN3grFg2b_1QPQZm6Rq5jGythDlOIfBBi4k30aOVi0pX4fOg9z5vuEQ8PByleczC1v3S_3q6xdUwEGTme5DLlTEj87FC1imwr96EGmE0rkcfeHVKVA858s/s1600/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUFwZM59qKuvFiMz_6drrZdN3grFg2b_1QPQZm6Rq5jGythDlOIfBBi4k30aOVi0pX4fOg9z5vuEQ8PByleczC1v3S_3q6xdUwEGTme5DLlTEj87FC1imwr96EGmE0rkcfeHVKVA858s/s320/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old tin cans with Cranefly Orchid leaf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-14825931232329228352016-11-27T18:20:00.004-05:002016-11-27T18:20:55.495-05:00Beachy things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_K-z6kf8_S4p03Xqi_Og-nxoyS9Ek7kEMqiX9ZeGlMQhbXGFkmYK7bD84ejMDuWDHHaFvnmg_ow5XY1uJ5YwZiCnLG1jHDryGDEj2V5R1P651bu500VXHTFBR2-PRPMrBJMkFVfNoIfQ/s1600/October+Edisto+Journal+Page.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_K-z6kf8_S4p03Xqi_Og-nxoyS9Ek7kEMqiX9ZeGlMQhbXGFkmYK7bD84ejMDuWDHHaFvnmg_ow5XY1uJ5YwZiCnLG1jHDryGDEj2V5R1P651bu500VXHTFBR2-PRPMrBJMkFVfNoIfQ/s400/October+Edisto+Journal+Page.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This journal page, once finished, was a gift to a friend. Unfortunately, I gave it to her before I remembered it needed to be scanned. Ah, well. Here it is, almost finished... no labels yet. <br />
<br />
I drew most of it here, in this shack (photo below) that used to be about 30 ft. back in the dunes before Hurricane Matthew came to visit. Now it is literally oceanfront. So close that some of high tide came right over the floor. It was glorious sitting on the bench in the shade for several hours surrounded by water, the only person on the beach. It felt like I was the only person in the world. The ocean was fairly calm, reflecting sun pennies galore.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOVGkwSvAc4YXGUXzhN5H1tP9ZxcP0tiN9Cp9HyAyjcE1W4Y4yMls6Q1GLvruBTTPCQZHOlZBt_RPd8_oDNr5PLwYBTe3Pn8EJBeDGubS0pUODVojVVrZCkI46vwwa0IQRYwDaVOfO1KQ/s1600/Beach+shack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOVGkwSvAc4YXGUXzhN5H1tP9ZxcP0tiN9Cp9HyAyjcE1W4Y4yMls6Q1GLvruBTTPCQZHOlZBt_RPd8_oDNr5PLwYBTe3Pn8EJBeDGubS0pUODVojVVrZCkI46vwwa0IQRYwDaVOfO1KQ/s320/Beach+shack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNOqBcgZx0J4hKpjyMjM_FS3_AQL66jAdQUwwf4TFRVw24_avzglKhdim1JIMI-FoNg12bx1JDs3Ai0wZNQ8y4QNBkHO4TyEoOTlE7iuHRR_azeH9VGxIkZzAt57wxmqRPXRm5PpIb8c/s1600/BeachJournal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNOqBcgZx0J4hKpjyMjM_FS3_AQL66jAdQUwwf4TFRVw24_avzglKhdim1JIMI-FoNg12bx1JDs3Ai0wZNQ8y4QNBkHO4TyEoOTlE7iuHRR_azeH9VGxIkZzAt57wxmqRPXRm5PpIb8c/s320/BeachJournal.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEasH9j93TiWSo4SSROg7wSPPHbo0CBvp8oqc0faThAJvlzdJNe7exnGv7WGBE6c6m5U-g9S-gDxez49Rn6RXVHv_4CWfwAeV6ZJD4-eN7OrH5wHkcMTMrUUOUGixnKUBFMSPOKVxVfRg/s1600/view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEasH9j93TiWSo4SSROg7wSPPHbo0CBvp8oqc0faThAJvlzdJNe7exnGv7WGBE6c6m5U-g9S-gDxez49Rn6RXVHv_4CWfwAeV6ZJD4-eN7OrH5wHkcMTMrUUOUGixnKUBFMSPOKVxVfRg/s320/view.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-69118022750135349332016-11-27T17:06:00.001-05:002016-11-27T17:06:46.056-05:00Black Tupelo Leaves <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5qPasqZ7YzssE9dW2rC1pOf30bepQgMQg32-vBNlt17oOoKRuJM6_DdDZHsbtqGnQR4TBgilQL-QcutyIki9a2TkFiBe46A-uSXTpAFnvpBbyQ7278-9Gqk1QaSZh_uP4IV3DJfQ1gI/s1600/October+leaves+journal+page.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5qPasqZ7YzssE9dW2rC1pOf30bepQgMQg32-vBNlt17oOoKRuJM6_DdDZHsbtqGnQR4TBgilQL-QcutyIki9a2TkFiBe46A-uSXTpAFnvpBbyQ7278-9Gqk1QaSZh_uP4IV3DJfQ1gI/s320/October+leaves+journal+page.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yes, I still keep my journal! Here is a page I did in October while out with my two 12-year-old students. One of them climbed like a monkey up the small Black Tupelo tree and shook a branch, sending bright orange and red leaves raining down on our heads. They are such cute guys, and very imaginative.<br />
<br />
In the photo below, one boy is drawing, the other is looking up the as-seen-on-TV pocket chair that he says we all need. Hoping Santa will bring them!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsd48YnC7HiHU-XGgn7FBiRq8572e3Qg7CDr8RTRlRL93-TjvVcy96PXrotZl5kjUG0plr08KZyp1KfuU9tfEL4JWQMaiFAX-lMoULlAlka57cE0mrw7B5CBAJxm0uyrOCEvbEH79H1pk/s1600/The+guys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsd48YnC7HiHU-XGgn7FBiRq8572e3Qg7CDr8RTRlRL93-TjvVcy96PXrotZl5kjUG0plr08KZyp1KfuU9tfEL4JWQMaiFAX-lMoULlAlka57cE0mrw7B5CBAJxm0uyrOCEvbEH79H1pk/s320/The+guys.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-29804701954186770872016-05-02T08:50:00.000-04:002016-05-02T08:50:02.616-04:00Journaling at the Beach<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglWKP88O8eHGoak_BDUvcMd0EUwYcafpI7orYJXjzX32prw8J_MJUk0H21R60yUVoHinebfzaeyfwhKmbv4CY84pAeRX5NMEUYfuVuJEgQugcMIiDILvxYs8pK0C2q050g1EjCjhl95zU/s1600/IMG_4389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglWKP88O8eHGoak_BDUvcMd0EUwYcafpI7orYJXjzX32prw8J_MJUk0H21R60yUVoHinebfzaeyfwhKmbv4CY84pAeRX5NMEUYfuVuJEgQugcMIiDILvxYs8pK0C2q050g1EjCjhl95zU/s400/IMG_4389.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
For your summer journaling inspiration I decided to post some of my old beach journal pages. Most of them were drawn out on the sand within hearing range of the waves. (All but the shrimp head.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
It's easy! Take a journal and pen to the beach, gather some goodies, sit down, draw. In hot sun you might want to settle under an umbrella, but in the morning and evening you can go anywhere. I enjoy wandering away from people and sitting near the dunes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
You may not have time to finish outside, if not you can finish up and add a bit of watercolor back at home. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Try it! You'll like it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOq9OJfYmisSFVAv7aal-0rnAsMrjgxmEEHwurGyWP9EJNTDQ4zfe-DheZRUZ8-rMjl0HMjeiKWf_9GLweNwwS2oAHcAEhAjzvL-MrUGE6Q-UE5G5YMovpsAhUhq37jQWNw6LyssetTVc/s1600/IMG_0380_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOq9OJfYmisSFVAv7aal-0rnAsMrjgxmEEHwurGyWP9EJNTDQ4zfe-DheZRUZ8-rMjl0HMjeiKWf_9GLweNwwS2oAHcAEhAjzvL-MrUGE6Q-UE5G5YMovpsAhUhq37jQWNw6LyssetTVc/s400/IMG_0380_2.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceRAExm7P_JV97ZQCfkaq81LalizjqaktKFgCbhOBJ_u7zGL2cQaefNcDBqSFyWMqy4R3_1cHJq1teFnSg6IJOPe-ldDBA4al9r6zv9D-BZoLLWtU7LMZ-pE5-mXUYMfQCZrHEUA5WiY/s1600/IMG_2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjceRAExm7P_JV97ZQCfkaq81LalizjqaktKFgCbhOBJ_u7zGL2cQaefNcDBqSFyWMqy4R3_1cHJq1teFnSg6IJOPe-ldDBA4al9r6zv9D-BZoLLWtU7LMZ-pE5-mXUYMfQCZrHEUA5WiY/s400/IMG_2021.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLZwN16pzmL0r-b_OgGcyHiQfkzNm4LtHDseaNw5TslWwun1t8YacF-FGm1aw-SXpu26Lm7Yt8K-4g2r9VT8Uf7oiTD-_hsqK9gOBi345IF40D90D0BAVgGt5OAhx0QBxX5ROwyrijAc/s1600/IMG_0384-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLZwN16pzmL0r-b_OgGcyHiQfkzNm4LtHDseaNw5TslWwun1t8YacF-FGm1aw-SXpu26Lm7Yt8K-4g2r9VT8Uf7oiTD-_hsqK9gOBi345IF40D90D0BAVgGt5OAhx0QBxX5ROwyrijAc/s400/IMG_0384-1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsG2sL5h1ntrJXg4mq20dcTyhKap-z8-Z4Ei98isIgflhtKcysWohNjeTrmpbW4HjtpIuDB1GjJV1F0isDcKHdwdkqUljUFR23gvIxVBBrxl9XZgozT-xQxUnCskD3yLcSNqoC_Ao1z0M/s1600/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsG2sL5h1ntrJXg4mq20dcTyhKap-z8-Z4Ei98isIgflhtKcysWohNjeTrmpbW4HjtpIuDB1GjJV1F0isDcKHdwdkqUljUFR23gvIxVBBrxl9XZgozT-xQxUnCskD3yLcSNqoC_Ao1z0M/s400/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4VMISlJq_Qup0VrmP2lTaUaFdJ8UtIBSBLe9Yi74j_9mCWJRO-QfBlVTfM25wxTdeJBFqTd2oc604liyaZAcwyI2hvIEFkmxu-DuhVKaFY3wpqPPVXH3b60P1wSXEjOufloKI45dhFY/s1600/FullSizeRender-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4VMISlJq_Qup0VrmP2lTaUaFdJ8UtIBSBLe9Yi74j_9mCWJRO-QfBlVTfM25wxTdeJBFqTd2oc604liyaZAcwyI2hvIEFkmxu-DuhVKaFY3wpqPPVXH3b60P1wSXEjOufloKI45dhFY/s400/FullSizeRender-4.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFXdOgrZXQ-Dxw39BbKKp1uIDkYZhDo22axESD_hGKS0lkNRrx436I8d3cjLMcCS2Cl8Il-k7YxYS1Oi0A9kKqXFBerdF-cQLI2dRxg-GNxUXmdwpdieZE0XE07cjnF-aLImvzXYBENM/s1600/IMG_8690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTFXdOgrZXQ-Dxw39BbKKp1uIDkYZhDo22axESD_hGKS0lkNRrx436I8d3cjLMcCS2Cl8Il-k7YxYS1Oi0A9kKqXFBerdF-cQLI2dRxg-GNxUXmdwpdieZE0XE07cjnF-aLImvzXYBENM/s400/IMG_8690.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSbN7V2PY5S117gYUVLedKKpSpmmGhfAmyX4YK7yOn-vXoq7jyNvHWtn2Ss-ZH5r8_KvZRXhLuDukVsrB1TrZjfheZnUy4v9dbybjQRxBy8UBuSlPb8hQBba3wKvlEsWf3wTIhwOLZ5k/s1600/IMG_8141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSbN7V2PY5S117gYUVLedKKpSpmmGhfAmyX4YK7yOn-vXoq7jyNvHWtn2Ss-ZH5r8_KvZRXhLuDukVsrB1TrZjfheZnUy4v9dbybjQRxBy8UBuSlPb8hQBba3wKvlEsWf3wTIhwOLZ5k/s400/IMG_8141.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmwD-hPZtmahdq80e__VuYkVvSqeO2itaPBg4zbjhK1fJxMZtxc_cmPw_aJySxkb20Fiw4tjipbdvhTxW1JSXt5_iQC9FF2Zk5NwzhPfhLT3zhR9lwreWDbLfpvZzzl6hpjrfZjvDnVM/s1600/IMG_6464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmwD-hPZtmahdq80e__VuYkVvSqeO2itaPBg4zbjhK1fJxMZtxc_cmPw_aJySxkb20Fiw4tjipbdvhTxW1JSXt5_iQC9FF2Zk5NwzhPfhLT3zhR9lwreWDbLfpvZzzl6hpjrfZjvDnVM/s400/IMG_6464.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOn1mJChIa4wdOgrPxpoC5-eSlOwQnMDCB9NaqfWZuNcszZBtRYK3PwXSAQk0diEM_gfNJ_MoooyKO3KMuInv8eM45nNtl1aM8nAZMNsfr86e4UWf1j9s7Zs-9gRP6LlferyxoN-90Y5s/s1600/IMG_2052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOn1mJChIa4wdOgrPxpoC5-eSlOwQnMDCB9NaqfWZuNcszZBtRYK3PwXSAQk0diEM_gfNJ_MoooyKO3KMuInv8eM45nNtl1aM8nAZMNsfr86e4UWf1j9s7Zs-9gRP6LlferyxoN-90Y5s/s400/IMG_2052.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-24949855394895360922016-04-30T10:55:00.002-04:002016-04-30T10:55:22.727-04:00Tulip Poplar Bloom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcvszgmFOI8yQs4XWQVHOsZkZLk8MR1HBgqe3tODMvqSgg-mqoa0eE1bviiTWRlfmJIQ84pZYRYKbKskhAY502vT8VMwWYg0A7tUWgddStJaCICB_9zFstBsfhJvmvaI4wkZkBBmZlbI/s1600/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcvszgmFOI8yQs4XWQVHOsZkZLk8MR1HBgqe3tODMvqSgg-mqoa0eE1bviiTWRlfmJIQ84pZYRYKbKskhAY502vT8VMwWYg0A7tUWgddStJaCICB_9zFstBsfhJvmvaI4wkZkBBmZlbI/s400/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" width="332" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yesterday I spent some time sitting beside our little man-made garden pond, trying to locate our five new goldfish that have been in hiding for over a week. It was peaceful, but not the quiet kind of peace. Cardinals sang and called and squabbled (two males), squirrels chased each other in the treetops, the wind blew every now and then, rattling leaves, and a small airplane passed overhead.<br />
<br />
By far the best sound was the horse-whinny call of a Screech Owl out at the haha. I remember the first time I heard this sound. <i>What the heck was that???</i> It took me a while to figure it out. Go <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Eastern_Screech-Owl/sounds" target="_blank">HERE</a>, to the Cornell site, to hear the sound. Click the first example.<br />
<br />
The flower I drew had fallen out of a nearby Tulip Poplar and was on the ground at my feet. I'm not sure who might have clipped the flower, but I assume a careless squirrel ran past and broke it.<br />
<br />
I've added a couple photos of a bloom growing on a low branch to give you an idea of their beauty when they are in full bloom. It's rare to get to see one on eye level.<br />
<br />
Tulip Poplars are very common... go outside and look for one! <br />
<br />
Helen<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WrlIvZIUysxP36PHXUpiF7dcu7gdfHCFKsFW2pRBcX-nZ9bMUARJszmNBZac95ZKGSRYgtjWtbyXV_2Ofd_ICw9S5rZpXZZgqhIEQeGjSInsqZIG40gtrlQT3vccXUdnN_BY2DzdZoA/s1600/FullSizeRender-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WrlIvZIUysxP36PHXUpiF7dcu7gdfHCFKsFW2pRBcX-nZ9bMUARJszmNBZac95ZKGSRYgtjWtbyXV_2Ofd_ICw9S5rZpXZZgqhIEQeGjSInsqZIG40gtrlQT3vccXUdnN_BY2DzdZoA/s320/FullSizeRender-8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SdsNWFTKZyqOF6Kdk1BXN2skcMI0W12nEwUamQQGUFbfh_htjJQLd1TS4NVmEceTYudgTRAEH2bHuTXmYTGIh_SEp3L10_90KMyJyFLho4tSergo3VbzgmbaOnDWuozr40Ks3utLQaU/s1600/IMG_2500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SdsNWFTKZyqOF6Kdk1BXN2skcMI0W12nEwUamQQGUFbfh_htjJQLd1TS4NVmEceTYudgTRAEH2bHuTXmYTGIh_SEp3L10_90KMyJyFLho4tSergo3VbzgmbaOnDWuozr40Ks3utLQaU/s320/IMG_2500.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-64227476091657862642016-04-29T12:42:00.001-04:002016-04-29T12:42:41.908-04:00Ground Beetle, Painted Lady, Oats, & various grasses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfINA1FvoG-HVCwbeqZZQDCG9WWXNaJJLRg952OmuLzZhSJQFwWxqMR0jzbN7KenrhKeM2Vt6JnKJd835MGofeQJKPJ-u_xXR1GjAXZoqPrFX85gNhwPCTHJxNGlj0UckIKV13pZpGHk/s1600/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfINA1FvoG-HVCwbeqZZQDCG9WWXNaJJLRg952OmuLzZhSJQFwWxqMR0jzbN7KenrhKeM2Vt6JnKJd835MGofeQJKPJ-u_xXR1GjAXZoqPrFX85gNhwPCTHJxNGlj0UckIKV13pZpGHk/s320/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" width="235" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
An April afternoon and sunset on Jay's Hill...it doesn't get any better. <br />
<br />
My friend Dee and I walked around the hill on the path my husband keeps mowed for me and admired the yellow ragwort, crimson clover, toadflax, and spotted cat's ear blooming everywhere. Gnats bothered us a little, but once we sat down with our faces into the breeze, the gnats were pushed behind us (a great tidbit to know if you ever find yourself in gnat country). The sound of wind in the trees and birdsong kept us company as we drew. Occasionally we'd get up and wander about to find something else for our journal page. Dee drew some of the flowers, while I decided to draw some of the interesting grasses and insects. Yes, even the gnats. <br />
<br />
We stayed a couple hours and enjoyed the peace of the place and getting lost in observing and drawing. <br />
<br />
Keeping a nature journal is so joyful! My wish for every one of my readers is that you can find time to try it yourself. Everyone's journal is different, and each journal is personal. It takes no expensive equipment and offers rewards on many health levels - physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. If you want some help getting started, email me. I offer workshops and classes.<br />
<br />
Even if you don't journal, I hope you go outside and feel the breezes!<br />
<br />
Helen<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFcIAL4GJXUmiPcZhO6Elt_CEdM-3JfaNrrmLuq4PY3CwjKFj3IHHs7QC6j57fclRH6mIcnpOkG2RdURZ3Ugs48sb8xmo_VKTakBJKvNoeV5PnoYfeN_fZLN1xQmLlxMWDvJCf_Urr9Y/s1600/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFcIAL4GJXUmiPcZhO6Elt_CEdM-3JfaNrrmLuq4PY3CwjKFj3IHHs7QC6j57fclRH6mIcnpOkG2RdURZ3Ugs48sb8xmo_VKTakBJKvNoeV5PnoYfeN_fZLN1xQmLlxMWDvJCf_Urr9Y/s320/FullSizeRender-6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNa3r-LZRpDkQEzy0jDLbBGkGxDcE32TkVgnKqOU1vDUn7yDLNnnHQ1IeLlO6FgkXJA-DWrdkNgKvYbtpvbVyduWVG8yIP68AHWTznPEXmnqg21au7rE84l0Ri5MqH9cq7RzWo12h8Mic/s1600/IMG_2366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNa3r-LZRpDkQEzy0jDLbBGkGxDcE32TkVgnKqOU1vDUn7yDLNnnHQ1IeLlO6FgkXJA-DWrdkNgKvYbtpvbVyduWVG8yIP68AHWTznPEXmnqg21au7rE84l0Ri5MqH9cq7RzWo12h8Mic/s320/IMG_2366.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-18693729471023521662016-04-22T11:07:00.002-04:002016-04-22T11:36:45.725-04:00Southern Ragwort & Toadflax<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43y-eD7t4XFO327XV1hgGEzAbJxXLc8YaF2Hjrnc1HABJ636edmfKir2n8zhOuBYvBvi59swn2X3oKP4NLaTilejAqysX245ZF-Lk2vacZU9etN3gow_iMzeOovYVKGRvfF4r8qygTUI/s1600/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg43y-eD7t4XFO327XV1hgGEzAbJxXLc8YaF2Hjrnc1HABJ636edmfKir2n8zhOuBYvBvi59swn2X3oKP4NLaTilejAqysX245ZF-Lk2vacZU9etN3gow_iMzeOovYVKGRvfF4r8qygTUI/s400/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spring is progressing slowly around here. Just when you think the heat is here for good, Mother Nature sends a blast of rain followed by cool dry air, and azure skies with puffy cotton ball clouds rushing overhead. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today I sat to draw with a good friend and student under the Tulip Poplar at the top of Jay's Hill. It was in the mid-70's and the wind blew steadily which kept the gnats at bay. I don't use the word <i><b>perfect,</b></i> but let me say it couldn't have been any more wonderful. The ragwort is just beginning to bloom, and soon the hill will be completely yellow. Pale lavender Toadflax can't compete, but I have always loved this dainty flower. Growing up, I used to pick handfuls for my mother.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We drew in peace, with a bit of chitchat and a steady breeze in our faces. Sweet Daisy sat at her usual respectful distance in front of my friend. Her radar ear twitched occasionally when a gnat buzzed her, otherwise she gazed out at the hill. She didn't move.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Duke... well Duke is in training. He's bad about nudging your elbow over and over to get you to pet him (once never satisfies) and likes to get in your face to remind you he is there and needing love. Once he stepped his muddy paw on one of my student's journal page. As you can imagine, he disturbs the peace of journaling. The good news is we are making great progress! Today he was on leash for a short while, and when I let him off he sat quietly nearby and was a very good boy! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Question to my readers... do any of you keep a nature journal? Just wondering. Let me know! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Spring to all!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Helen</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_9aNGzjvMKR7fUN8ikN78a7qIkX5HrNBbSnwQUTzs9_SrNKm6lojTA0_AjhwyxIXamWlQ7wP51kIbclF4unlqGRSEPvfTkKegAJaEn021UaxiMNYZvyTQAORvL_M_B3W97jS3OpKqeE/s1600/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_9aNGzjvMKR7fUN8ikN78a7qIkX5HrNBbSnwQUTzs9_SrNKm6lojTA0_AjhwyxIXamWlQ7wP51kIbclF4unlqGRSEPvfTkKegAJaEn021UaxiMNYZvyTQAORvL_M_B3W97jS3OpKqeE/s320/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dukie's leash is attached to an old kudzu vine at the base of the poplar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMm63gge1LzKysVK1Bu9IFAG9T95GLzxR7OAzJ6DbrRPYUJ-abCUQYn7_GljvDCJ138XysuB70l1B51HeKiPdvzjFqc5tTyC6MHNxy_JaRbuRZjFbIQ6VrdTTiJrMZDAPV8qeX-qZzkbM/s1600/IMG_2185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMm63gge1LzKysVK1Bu9IFAG9T95GLzxR7OAzJ6DbrRPYUJ-abCUQYn7_GljvDCJ138XysuB70l1B51HeKiPdvzjFqc5tTyC6MHNxy_JaRbuRZjFbIQ6VrdTTiJrMZDAPV8qeX-qZzkbM/s400/IMG_2185.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daisy and the beautiful clouds.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-69570242445768582232016-04-13T21:35:00.001-04:002016-04-13T21:36:19.442-04:00Ragwort, Dandelion, Honeysuckle, Catbrier, and Violet Leaves<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACHpznKgSqbPoQNPWxBvmSbFswScLtU4RlmfWZ7zXqeJV9Eiq2dbNItpZ0O7i4YAAkvNnza9OnVplbclkkG6807juhXgoqy5b2VPCelkoN23e5BX_DYb9ojhvylUU-a7NgWcNtLJdNpc/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACHpznKgSqbPoQNPWxBvmSbFswScLtU4RlmfWZ7zXqeJV9Eiq2dbNItpZ0O7i4YAAkvNnza9OnVplbclkkG6807juhXgoqy5b2VPCelkoN23e5BX_DYb9ojhvylUU-a7NgWcNtLJdNpc/s320/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Today I hiked with my classes and drew various leaves that are growing around Middlewood. The Ragwort that grows all over Jay's Hill is just starting to bud, soon the hilltop will be covered in yellow!. The violets are in bloom other places, but not where I plucked this leaf to draw. The dandelions along the path to my studio don't get enough sun to bloom, and even though the honeysuckle doesn't bloom until May, I loved the beautiful red stem. <br />
<br />
I hate to admit that I cannot identify the grass. It grows everywhere but I've never identified it, and even though I have tried, I won't be able to until I get a better grass field guide. I'm determined to find it, so stay tuned!<br />
<br />
Anyway, all these leaves have interesting shapes and textures, and so I decided to draw them. The day was overcast, cool, and almost gnat-free, which is wonderful!<br />
<br />
I sure hope everyone is enjoying Spring. If you haven't been outside lately, today is a good day to go on a walk! <br />
<br />
Helen Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-21096786526971675572016-04-12T16:47:00.002-04:002016-04-12T16:47:53.343-04:00Climbing Vetch (Vicia augustifolia)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxHgy46kjIkSU06A3pQvOhX63LhPLwAjVC64bl-9P5mlP0mOnQBpXiE3sq5m8M09swLtQmYTyJcM7JwLyUBHryycy1CMneQRxIDqjNHLWK5iW9ybGLamqzuVSFLZM0HATq8DVgARARdM/s1600/FullSizeRender-34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxHgy46kjIkSU06A3pQvOhX63LhPLwAjVC64bl-9P5mlP0mOnQBpXiE3sq5m8M09swLtQmYTyJcM7JwLyUBHryycy1CMneQRxIDqjNHLWK5iW9ybGLamqzuVSFLZM0HATq8DVgARARdM/s320/FullSizeRender-34.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After hiking around and following deer paths through the woods, we were chased away by gnats. Yes, tee-tiny little black gnats. There is nothing in nature more irritating than having gnats swarm around your face, their favorite place, naturally. They love to get into your eyes and ears, and did I mention that they bite? The trick is to get to a place where the breeze (if you're lucky enough to have one) is blowing into your face. If there isn't a breeze, you may as well go back home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There was a breeze today, so off we went to higher ground which in Middlewood is the top of Jay's Hill where my favorite Tulip Poplar grows. I've been watching this tree grow for 25 years. Daisy loves the tree and the delightful shade it provides. Even on days that I don't consider hot, if we are on the hill Daisy can be found in the shade keeping an eye on the whole hilltop. Maybe it's the herding instinct, and she is keeping an eye out for the wolves that might come get her sheep, me! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the way up the hill I stopped to pick this little vine, one of the Vetches. It is in the legume family, which you would know if you looked at the tiny flowers. They are "pea-like" flowers. This is always your first clue that it's a legume.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vROtOATau6KhNiADotxW3f5QMq8k7EjSUiviSh_mq_EW0oZ-X-r_Gk3etlII-Jgiq494gCe3L6vvj-_8NhcN7H_SG9fiApHnn-lX8kToC2nteHVVAnHCFnNSsLVQdUW5EhjmgoPNW1I/s1600/FullSizeRender-36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8vROtOATau6KhNiADotxW3f5QMq8k7EjSUiviSh_mq_EW0oZ-X-r_Gk3etlII-Jgiq494gCe3L6vvj-_8NhcN7H_SG9fiApHnn-lX8kToC2nteHVVAnHCFnNSsLVQdUW5EhjmgoPNW1I/s320/FullSizeRender-36.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
An unknown vine I just found growing at the edge of the woods.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RiTE54DMuVo2HASOmQss-XgOn0viTVJJJxdPkwhbNWXtqNhrt9b0RMICqyP2j5yuJKTlDCdLe8QIrF-aJMVHccd6MqvhEfK6gvEt0in2waWJAyBddiKRNmSbj7CtaQFzRRzxRrV0VD8/s1600/FullSizeRender-37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RiTE54DMuVo2HASOmQss-XgOn0viTVJJJxdPkwhbNWXtqNhrt9b0RMICqyP2j5yuJKTlDCdLe8QIrF-aJMVHccd6MqvhEfK6gvEt0in2waWJAyBddiKRNmSbj7CtaQFzRRzxRrV0VD8/s640/FullSizeRender-37.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The view from under the Tulip Poplar.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-91915507695636090512016-03-31T14:29:00.000-04:002016-03-31T14:29:24.909-04:00Wild Grape Vine, Eyed Click Beetle, Sixth Graders<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCa0o4iIi02OryE447M_o8Bzd6VXcMXSawMKzDEnKpL_0Wbup20PQ_4ZTeFyGhsUU-EJ8iszVnPTfRcyjlCr2UFV-HHDbc9VxAumqONahAm2ehF24kFTqAvf8P563ACagr8IrUYyugfc/s1600/FullSizeRender-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCa0o4iIi02OryE447M_o8Bzd6VXcMXSawMKzDEnKpL_0Wbup20PQ_4ZTeFyGhsUU-EJ8iszVnPTfRcyjlCr2UFV-HHDbc9VxAumqONahAm2ehF24kFTqAvf8P563ACagr8IrUYyugfc/s320/FullSizeRender-26.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This entry was drawn yesterday during my class with two sixth grade boys. They are such fun, and both seem eager to draw... except on beautiful sunny day just before spring break! They were hilariously hyper yesterday, but still I taught them a few important things, such as how to identify our Official State Wildflower, Carolina Jessamine, and how to identify a Tiger Swallowtail butterfly (we saw them everywhere!) and their main host plant, Tulip Poplars. We also found an Eyed Click Beetle, which look scary because of their huge false eyes. We all held him to feel his CLICK!<br />
<br />
After a lot of playing around, we sat at the edge of the woods to draw a wild grape vine and any other little thing we might see nearby. Rufous-sided Towhees and Cardinals and Crows made appearances while we drew.<br />
<br />
Here are a few sketches from the boys.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNf0ZB-Cw54gnbWrWPrQQCb9y_AoSKZgQLCbt_e_eXCUrFELUziH8bgR0esYKK9xlWIsV4M7r4qdsLDGa4_lL7rNiDPy-GCLn6GMeyiByZpXkW5mVnEJ3o843lkQT-PIQu58z3mLNWUnc/s1600/FullSizeRender-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNf0ZB-Cw54gnbWrWPrQQCb9y_AoSKZgQLCbt_e_eXCUrFELUziH8bgR0esYKK9xlWIsV4M7r4qdsLDGa4_lL7rNiDPy-GCLn6GMeyiByZpXkW5mVnEJ3o843lkQT-PIQu58z3mLNWUnc/s320/FullSizeRender-27.jpg" width="218" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wild Grape Vine</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LQvXbESEWOwmXujoAPxs2XGyWbgMsoy194-i7WMbxbAGfQ4M8y20vQ8Tp9SkDGLZQFLJOcYtBe158vycejXlCz9Oqea_4rpaREqWI87KihCQCTxf25y7m_9kDCiWQ5oZ8yopGnThOtM/s1600/FullSizeRender-28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-LQvXbESEWOwmXujoAPxs2XGyWbgMsoy194-i7WMbxbAGfQ4M8y20vQ8Tp9SkDGLZQFLJOcYtBe158vycejXlCz9Oqea_4rpaREqWI87KihCQCTxf25y7m_9kDCiWQ5oZ8yopGnThOtM/s320/FullSizeRender-28.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Close up of DNA of a gnat. Ha!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7xwioXtd9-8VR6W_SzeobQnRu3qWhvnaCcXVp11BwM_NU34NglVUxVKlvfKDQtNvRXM5uVk4aiHT2JVyheChj0jDRKyHpc3Zp-7R-8azdtzm9MUe2Ab7spboMmW6uSh70Rg66RsxHAa0/s1600/FullSizeRender-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7xwioXtd9-8VR6W_SzeobQnRu3qWhvnaCcXVp11BwM_NU34NglVUxVKlvfKDQtNvRXM5uVk4aiHT2JVyheChj0jDRKyHpc3Zp-7R-8azdtzm9MUe2Ab7spboMmW6uSh70Rg66RsxHAa0/s320/FullSizeRender-29.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wild Grapevine</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhup5Gu8vpr-d2H4S46-45F3pTZt9gVROqqoudGB6bL3-XgtDAJ2o_A8GYmy5SvEuHHzTq6KgoX4jw-DhP4fbTH0P3ng8P8CC661VLKAh47x4__PEwdpGOHB8VYwPg84JWjvkQNrGpLuF4/s1600/FullSizeRender-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhup5Gu8vpr-d2H4S46-45F3pTZt9gVROqqoudGB6bL3-XgtDAJ2o_A8GYmy5SvEuHHzTq6KgoX4jw-DhP4fbTH0P3ng8P8CC661VLKAh47x4__PEwdpGOHB8VYwPg84JWjvkQNrGpLuF4/s320/FullSizeRender-31.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Daisy helping to carry home one of our sitting rugs. For the record, I didn't realize how completely miserable she was until I looked closely at this photo. Poor old girl. She carried it pretty far (for her). I won't let it happen again. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1b2L3rE5zOfIPYCKlbxV6Kivb-fHVJcyta0o_Z9A10RFQt9s5l93KK9iBchyKUMkDZ9oWKN3Niq2PvwIZPv9Ilw570g-sIGQ_fPpu7xaL-pc-enD0E-2rP_rK81Vtln2YAws6LY0Av8/s1600/FullSizeRender-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1b2L3rE5zOfIPYCKlbxV6Kivb-fHVJcyta0o_Z9A10RFQt9s5l93KK9iBchyKUMkDZ9oWKN3Niq2PvwIZPv9Ilw570g-sIGQ_fPpu7xaL-pc-enD0E-2rP_rK81Vtln2YAws6LY0Av8/s320/FullSizeRender-30.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heading back</div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-48648552892048682952016-03-13T12:29:00.001-04:002016-03-13T12:30:27.028-04:00Mysteries of Migration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKDE-T6RbXp1lh_IFp43VzonPr5K1In7Zo0nwb4ONOQNTKaBFEfjgaHT8eJ_lzgH2UDSo2jPMbskS6FifnfgG2S1NDyJZ_95QTVmrVGVLX_-NuXCJ3UXk44uMUGebYO6j0MT5Cn66J3z8/s1600/FullSizeRender-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKDE-T6RbXp1lh_IFp43VzonPr5K1In7Zo0nwb4ONOQNTKaBFEfjgaHT8eJ_lzgH2UDSo2jPMbskS6FifnfgG2S1NDyJZ_95QTVmrVGVLX_-NuXCJ3UXk44uMUGebYO6j0MT5Cn66J3z8/s400/FullSizeRender-23.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJdQf0_Seejl6bZ373U-hd4hdlOzqatS6ad3hP9nRjPfvPx3__B4Xf6LJpOdCuaDnIyHYEBp7Y1J7AAMqxZv65K2bi6MKvN9pllLzdpizD6nZrVKC238HXKz6sl1lVuv0vmGIqrfMVSE/s1600/FullSizeRender-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJdQf0_Seejl6bZ373U-hd4hdlOzqatS6ad3hP9nRjPfvPx3__B4Xf6LJpOdCuaDnIyHYEBp7Y1J7AAMqxZv65K2bi6MKvN9pllLzdpizD6nZrVKC238HXKz6sl1lVuv0vmGIqrfMVSE/s400/FullSizeRender-22.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The article above can be found in this month's issue of <i>Wildlife in North Carolina</i> magazine. Every month the magazine includes a four-page section called "Wild Notebook" which is written for families with children, and for teachers to print and hand out in their classrooms. I've been writing and illustrating for Wild Notebook for many years, and continue to feel thankful for the opportunity to share with children my love for and fascination with all aspects of our natural world. <br />
<br />
The Hummingbird paper sculpture project is by Anne Runyon, one of the most creative and brilliant artists I know! She designs a new project for each article.<br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
HelenHelenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-33815816528836527702016-03-11T18:34:00.006-05:002016-03-13T11:43:12.721-04:00Riverbank: Dog Hobble, Dwarf-Flowered Heartleaf, Asian Clams<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Q0kE_Z_dZHabt-2tZmjROiL8ltjt5dTlaX0Rm4UqKFFiJh51fUqYNKqfJMTxY4XHZ1DYqpGxfQTLvBohVNz_mA9XMABC3BcxS2A3MAgzRNbHg_r668hq9fnDYO404hckuSLcPfHni2o/s1600/FullSizeRender-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Q0kE_Z_dZHabt-2tZmjROiL8ltjt5dTlaX0Rm4UqKFFiJh51fUqYNKqfJMTxY4XHZ1DYqpGxfQTLvBohVNz_mA9XMABC3BcxS2A3MAgzRNbHg_r668hq9fnDYO404hckuSLcPfHni2o/s400/FullSizeRender-16.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The dogs and I spent a couple hours by the river this morning, me drawing, Daisy and Duke playing in the water for a while, then napping. By noon it was 78 degrees, warm for mid-March, and sitting beside a rushing river is a wonderful way to enjoy it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We wandered around a bit first and found a pile of small clam shells near the water where, a while back, raccoons had eaten a feast. There were tracks nearby that were new, (the shells were not) but they are not raccoon. I'll look them up in my tracks field guide.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I discovered a natural chair at a spot where an old wild grapevine rests on the ground. (see photo below) Sand had washed down and filled in behind the vine to make a soft, flat seat, and from there I could see the long arching stems of Dog Hobble (Leucothoe axillaris) as well as the small leaves of the Dwarf-flowered Heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora), two typical north-facing riverbank species. Daisy found a spot just below where I sat, while Duke climbed and settled above me on the steep bank. The rushing water kept us all company.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another thing I'll look up tonight are the cute, tomato-red bugs that were out in force on that sandy bank. Everywhere I looked I saw one running around. It occurred to me that I should be careful since the bugs were RED, and supposedly announcing that they are poisonous, or at least would make me itch. But then again, they may just be faking it. I was not particularly careful, but I never got a bite! Because of this I assume they are harmless... If I'm wrong (and just lucky not to get bitten), I'll update! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Helen</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhZz15sJHD0J1qxO92DQM61TvCrvzGz6WucGDcUAeRczJykyx5ZrP6TWsba3vauuZx0AYv1xyhZVJxCn2TpEgXONps1B_H8QztIVU6s2IaZbWmuEwk1-jiV7r4W-bYe8Hn4OmHtzwjg4/s1600/FullSizeRender-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhZz15sJHD0J1qxO92DQM61TvCrvzGz6WucGDcUAeRczJykyx5ZrP6TWsba3vauuZx0AYv1xyhZVJxCn2TpEgXONps1B_H8QztIVU6s2IaZbWmuEwk1-jiV7r4W-bYe8Hn4OmHtzwjg4/s320/FullSizeRender-17.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnp3XPIRQGpK_E-ALgpDiyIk8vXRSB_mK0Jmv93D3ZcMqxhsMWfWohYAnNWf_Ux1XCVFXisbM77-FWCuGbvSQB3PkUohQR5tKxcQ5mpjpn14RfSFuO2_Ht53x6K_lzHEy1Y7XmDNMu_xg/s1600/FullSizeRender-18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnp3XPIRQGpK_E-ALgpDiyIk8vXRSB_mK0Jmv93D3ZcMqxhsMWfWohYAnNWf_Ux1XCVFXisbM77-FWCuGbvSQB3PkUohQR5tKxcQ5mpjpn14RfSFuO2_Ht53x6K_lzHEy1Y7XmDNMu_xg/s320/FullSizeRender-18.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgDbWRfI2BQOl93IKJrwgGrxRuhb71nhuKiz8DcP3BvmrlXu5WgSOUN0AqE6HnPPuBtNDmc1Xzr-xG41xvIh0B3QeThZh5dHRdr8n65igkrPVirVmkzOGNgzAj9Mu4lhdWK3gqzc_Zfs/s1600/FullSizeRender-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgDbWRfI2BQOl93IKJrwgGrxRuhb71nhuKiz8DcP3BvmrlXu5WgSOUN0AqE6HnPPuBtNDmc1Xzr-xG41xvIh0B3QeThZh5dHRdr8n65igkrPVirVmkzOGNgzAj9Mu4lhdWK3gqzc_Zfs/s320/FullSizeRender-19.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlCSB9gj-LM_IlO0-hEGCkInMCglPHq1hMy2jzJRo3ASOhttq9u5GeYK2FQQ0NB-IpVkilFXb4iHpwZmBhgA1naQmCgYzR1arR_549OYEu-QhAikmLs5XlYbN_BTtvd9eJ3rLweXjpHg/s1600/IMG_0834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlCSB9gj-LM_IlO0-hEGCkInMCglPHq1hMy2jzJRo3ASOhttq9u5GeYK2FQQ0NB-IpVkilFXb4iHpwZmBhgA1naQmCgYzR1arR_549OYEu-QhAikmLs5XlYbN_BTtvd9eJ3rLweXjpHg/s320/IMG_0834.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4D4hw0gBaeINL7bLCJRlLid5_0rhpMSlWAITlb8-QPMCA6PL__sri2yhjIxgQmzHm5RN6Pk3JCY0HqDXSBN5NUKtBPB_2xkVdwAzDVsxZM-e5rh6truC9ZUgLwaWXqAMwClXjLGkOj4/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4D4hw0gBaeINL7bLCJRlLid5_0rhpMSlWAITlb8-QPMCA6PL__sri2yhjIxgQmzHm5RN6Pk3JCY0HqDXSBN5NUKtBPB_2xkVdwAzDVsxZM-e5rh6truC9ZUgLwaWXqAMwClXjLGkOj4/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1RBPwSp8npYZtPzqQV-Jg4Tx00NZezLtffPvpGk12yJgQQg5psXZQ2JqZc-5KyvReqcOJW5h-D1ZA3GA0AYcCkpXKp_yzYI9s_ItXm57irCRrCTNQKkfmeGEA1WUF2LXpLmHD9nWdJQ/s1600/FullSizeRender-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1RBPwSp8npYZtPzqQV-Jg4Tx00NZezLtffPvpGk12yJgQQg5psXZQ2JqZc-5KyvReqcOJW5h-D1ZA3GA0AYcCkpXKp_yzYI9s_ItXm57irCRrCTNQKkfmeGEA1WUF2LXpLmHD9nWdJQ/s320/FullSizeRender-20.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bug and Tracks UPDATE: Sunday, March 13</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2ojwfffgi9pYG89ruDQHbSO2dvlCqCQ2v1fcBIZBydBFIwZQsoKFRpNfabIHuZN4Q5D377lKQg_7BPahczoFQ16a-rgV5DE3RiDKdch09dbdewFuEt9tvFfb6NrcWvbsEA0lT_LI4WE/s1600/FullSizeRender-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2ojwfffgi9pYG89ruDQHbSO2dvlCqCQ2v1fcBIZBydBFIwZQsoKFRpNfabIHuZN4Q5D377lKQg_7BPahczoFQ16a-rgV5DE3RiDKdch09dbdewFuEt9tvFfb6NrcWvbsEA0lT_LI4WE/s320/FullSizeRender-21.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clover Mites (Bryobia praetiosa) are bright red when young. Perhaps the ones I saw had just hatched out. Older ones are reddish brown, and probably difficult to see. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSm_56qRwbyhWIhyphenhyphenhO1nEzYCCleEiVjFZxlFAt9_suvFjntBEBfy3aFDzD5M-G1F5QYp9ib0R16wBlMs4LiAuPIcE0E0Wmxw0zMmix7fZDf937npwu9GWDJw0E5fXIJgJAInb82ky95-E/s1600/IMG_0897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSm_56qRwbyhWIhyphenhyphenhO1nEzYCCleEiVjFZxlFAt9_suvFjntBEBfy3aFDzD5M-G1F5QYp9ib0R16wBlMs4LiAuPIcE0E0Wmxw0zMmix7fZDf937npwu9GWDJw0E5fXIJgJAInb82ky95-E/s320/IMG_0897.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is one of several field guides to animal tracks. The tracks I saw were not clear enough to identify, and I can't remember exactly how big they were. I remember thinking they were too big to be a squirrel. I will probably go back later today to see if I see any new ones.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynAKuzkmbkZCMONHlfvT_hlujDIslV01lpGIV7LP0R8NLHANySXqD1DP09PCz437AWdGckave8rxSq-k2PP9hrQGlmjO4O7ajM_93XaBoE_w4w8OerQB5NNKju6p_p9W6k0-VNoK4DxI/s1600/IMG_0898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynAKuzkmbkZCMONHlfvT_hlujDIslV01lpGIV7LP0R8NLHANySXqD1DP09PCz437AWdGckave8rxSq-k2PP9hrQGlmjO4O7ajM_93XaBoE_w4w8OerQB5NNKju6p_p9W6k0-VNoK4DxI/s320/IMG_0898.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-57975584197590237112016-03-09T13:40:00.000-05:002016-03-09T13:40:57.270-05:00Daffodils, Violets & Clematis vine<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0pqsjojWfOJ3c4NQv_DukH0XxwS-Sj5LlzYmhvyPkniDF17vW5rFtlCsXHCXRr1VUmM-l22Ysj7Ad8SbTnjSrRBi1s6ZH85UbTD6ZNsIN8lHOi0eCCfYJKKuwarUgI7m-W-0gTIxU-Q/s1600/FullSizeRender-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0pqsjojWfOJ3c4NQv_DukH0XxwS-Sj5LlzYmhvyPkniDF17vW5rFtlCsXHCXRr1VUmM-l22Ysj7Ad8SbTnjSrRBi1s6ZH85UbTD6ZNsIN8lHOi0eCCfYJKKuwarUgI7m-W-0gTIxU-Q/s400/FullSizeRender-12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We are enjoying a taste of Spring weather this week, with temps in the mid-70's yesterday and today, and it looks to be nice all the way until Saturday. Spring surprises are popping out every day. It's time for the ephemerals (wildflowers that bloom before the trees leaf out), and while hiking with my sons Sunday I found both Rue Anemone and Round-lobed Hepatica just beginning to bloom.<br />
<br />
I planted the little miniature daffodils (above) in a big green pot a few years ago, along with the clematis. The violets in there are wild and self-sowed all around, in and out of the pot. While drawing I noticed that down near the bottom, the pot has cracked completely around. Ah, well. Nothing to do about that. Instead I closed my eyes to listen to the birds and smell the warming earth. It was heavenly. A bird fluttered just behind my head, and I assume it was the Tufted Titmouse that had been singing just seconds before. A female Cardinal chip chip chipped to her mate from the Forsythia, which is just beginning to open. A Question Mark butterfly flittered above the warm gravel in the driveway. I'm so glad Spring is on its way!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBqSjykVqOblzl5SQ7RDlQX3ZED_gz9Gxi_EryTQql1OOvC6Snb1ZcOsW5Xx8vPs3DdvzA0OuFMV0_dFebiIHwEslAf1qQDKk1uuzHQslCa8Q5WyPt9LxdTxLn8zvacMB2J_g2uKkzeE/s1600/FullSizeRender-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBqSjykVqOblzl5SQ7RDlQX3ZED_gz9Gxi_EryTQql1OOvC6Snb1ZcOsW5Xx8vPs3DdvzA0OuFMV0_dFebiIHwEslAf1qQDKk1uuzHQslCa8Q5WyPt9LxdTxLn8zvacMB2J_g2uKkzeE/s400/FullSizeRender-13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yesterday's drawing spot</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XfhhYC3wSs9MBbWSlP_FgF3XKcMLzPD5YMy5EnCtbGn0SOyPGQqbXM6BS4HzS6GPjbbQuiDbgZrCylvnobKf9LHVtf4-Ai-dpsVnE5e2L5BZNWULmt74s1dh_Y2kd7R1F4DHucAXXsw/s1600/FullSizeRender-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_XfhhYC3wSs9MBbWSlP_FgF3XKcMLzPD5YMy5EnCtbGn0SOyPGQqbXM6BS4HzS6GPjbbQuiDbgZrCylvnobKf9LHVtf4-Ai-dpsVnE5e2L5BZNWULmt74s1dh_Y2kd7R1F4DHucAXXsw/s400/FullSizeRender-14.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rue Anemone</div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-87760568260415909742016-02-20T20:46:00.000-05:002016-02-20T20:46:16.152-05:00Last Beach DayAhhh, well, no drawings today, it being our last day, plus we went out to dinner, which changes the whole afternoon. Here are some pics from the day, though. Enjoy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyiGWYqdtaPLg6pdw_P1BzXkxnCeqPOHICOo9weTecVAVEoWiBef9y_Ijrdz8DpI4Ik7jhHnKd4iySwMg5EtRFUoGquKv4VmSh8D6eHLZgg5CM9BVjjq0eeUYt2IrEz6mnB_OG2lS5nuo/s1600/FullSizeRender-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyiGWYqdtaPLg6pdw_P1BzXkxnCeqPOHICOo9weTecVAVEoWiBef9y_Ijrdz8DpI4Ik7jhHnKd4iySwMg5EtRFUoGquKv4VmSh8D6eHLZgg5CM9BVjjq0eeUYt2IrEz6mnB_OG2lS5nuo/s320/FullSizeRender-8.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
man-made oyster shell tower</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheByzMkBe9zedrs84vAfi0Hj5aaZynAQajqQoH3arQRJ9ae2DWb0unlVSZ-KLm-0HmpGZuLwKsXd44lULKpqUVOwylLNabn68IiNGjSze_Vdv1hzAO-SE7S_H2_Qn_JJFW6YuZjDbvUdY/s1600/IMG_0128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheByzMkBe9zedrs84vAfi0Hj5aaZynAQajqQoH3arQRJ9ae2DWb0unlVSZ-KLm-0HmpGZuLwKsXd44lULKpqUVOwylLNabn68IiNGjSze_Vdv1hzAO-SE7S_H2_Qn_JJFW6YuZjDbvUdY/s320/IMG_0128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
tiny sea urchin</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHMxrPWmufTohCBjdfClRQsTiX4_EMHiKtS_hHea8bdEJc3cZV3LOcE1Oi9lPy771Rpin7LtbYP3x2eA8A9w1qspI6HQT0mcBrtq8jLME527lAcYZptOLr65LWscmSb0AaElQeZGsIZ4/s1600/IMG_0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHMxrPWmufTohCBjdfClRQsTiX4_EMHiKtS_hHea8bdEJc3cZV3LOcE1Oi9lPy771Rpin7LtbYP3x2eA8A9w1qspI6HQT0mcBrtq8jLME527lAcYZptOLr65LWscmSb0AaElQeZGsIZ4/s320/IMG_0142.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
yellow & purple sea whip</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8R-JGFYU_bDlZLCwJE0Q92R4N940iekYDs2AHqNyfP9y32jnLioSC0yKgOcUTbkkM_q_O3Tq-ruprvukM08fLe4VhCnqge9dVUoI16INW35IzRcflbxmdatNaz1teAM0iDTm-Kj4_F0/s1600/IMG_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8R-JGFYU_bDlZLCwJE0Q92R4N940iekYDs2AHqNyfP9y32jnLioSC0yKgOcUTbkkM_q_O3Tq-ruprvukM08fLe4VhCnqge9dVUoI16INW35IzRcflbxmdatNaz1teAM0iDTm-Kj4_F0/s320/IMG_0176.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Channeled Whelk</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmODZMLabrESErOyLXBegsBNfH0d9C7Vh9vE_ogye1ftWmKLU2t2YBWbtwyZ5os7Gh7X6HoRPo8vf9TrPdHmzXmY0ngusPnWRXgHIgWDsqMq6PtC2IovMdCaebkbctVMdf9GTz6VabLc/s1600/IMG_0177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmODZMLabrESErOyLXBegsBNfH0d9C7Vh9vE_ogye1ftWmKLU2t2YBWbtwyZ5os7Gh7X6HoRPo8vf9TrPdHmzXmY0ngusPnWRXgHIgWDsqMq6PtC2IovMdCaebkbctVMdf9GTz6VabLc/s320/IMG_0177.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
four-armed starfish</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEg4DgtSRRRfpCyxIg9q6TJYAi0YVg0-Tt8E3EoyQrR5HQOeT-uudAA5jPDp5GfiDg-HaKEhQsUGeep8-Ba4Kp-oxYiiNRVkWed9RYNyWn0zT4kwkhNTWDHiV-_4pueGRGfW47KfSeAg/s1600/IMG_0178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEg4DgtSRRRfpCyxIg9q6TJYAi0YVg0-Tt8E3EoyQrR5HQOeT-uudAA5jPDp5GfiDg-HaKEhQsUGeep8-Ba4Kp-oxYiiNRVkWed9RYNyWn0zT4kwkhNTWDHiV-_4pueGRGfW47KfSeAg/s320/IMG_0178.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-89987106880184355502016-02-19T18:31:00.001-05:002016-02-19T18:31:24.648-05:00February Fossils <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6Z8wzZBQ4QMPM864-RPq-wKgDhb63W0wrVMdeNe6fQwgd3fcmaJNtpiBLOFw-EJDPOAQ2GhDYRTkkffC7MBuEyTEDKY8Acs5hroSDLPl2ySJY6OO17Ivhw4Q9nQhclULAEcM9pcy26M/s1600/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6Z8wzZBQ4QMPM864-RPq-wKgDhb63W0wrVMdeNe6fQwgd3fcmaJNtpiBLOFw-EJDPOAQ2GhDYRTkkffC7MBuEyTEDKY8Acs5hroSDLPl2ySJY6OO17Ivhw4Q9nQhclULAEcM9pcy26M/s400/FullSizeRender-5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Oooh, it was cold today! Well, not so much temperature-wise, but the wind chill made it pretty hard to stay on the beach for long. <br />
<br />
This journal drawing honors my best fossils from this week. Each one was found on a different day, each one a thrill. For the record, I'm serious about my fossils and have five fossil books that help me identify what I find.... so when I say that one is a camel tooth, it's true. There is a particular way a camel tooth is different from horse's tooth - I won't go into details. ;-)<br />
<br />
These fossils are all Pleistocene material, which means they are between 10 thousand to 1.8 million years old. That long ago South Carolina had many different animals wandering around - Mastadon, Mammoth, Giant Ground Sloths, Camels, Saber Tooth Cats, Dire Wolves, Capybara, Glyptodonts, and more. We know this from finding their fossilized bones, bones which have turned to stone. This is how you can tell it's not new material. In fact, I did find a huge femur-looking bone at low tide, and my heart skipped a beat! Wow! But when I picked it up it was very light weight, and when I tapped it with an oyster shell, the sound was not the high, ringing (rock) evidence of a fossil... it was a soft, unimpressive thud. I was sad, but it is what it is. This is to say, the fossils above are good, though, and passed all the tests. <br />
<br />
We have one more day, and windy or not, I'll be out fossil hunting. Maybe I'll have something exciting to share tomorrow.<br />
<br />
Helen<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXWTRB62wu2OfUhPiQOmfq3-koXYBN1fRZrBcvzJqdpAhq78_yfro50-fSzhknbB4i3DWoY2Tw5m8b5NlbWbxoC3AJtEb5aIIDmP6dX4J8xPtJsmkDKB5jdcxBYh2M1ze-TQeYActjSg/s1600/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXWTRB62wu2OfUhPiQOmfq3-koXYBN1fRZrBcvzJqdpAhq78_yfro50-fSzhknbB4i3DWoY2Tw5m8b5NlbWbxoC3AJtEb5aIIDmP6dX4J8xPtJsmkDKB5jdcxBYh2M1ze-TQeYActjSg/s320/FullSizeRender-7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A minute after taking this, I found the claw!</div>
Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-18093363876455006552016-02-18T17:05:00.001-05:002016-02-18T17:11:41.480-05:00Sea Whip & Atlantic Winged Oysters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP76Kw13oT70SXrIvplstAOYXb8ewa88ern3D5EER2M9VC7Ayf1IKgiX4rHL_9WFfesxVVFNa7uVQYMsuHTPbhH4PufByFV0WoPwzdcNyUPcQHIKTg0yqETAw_IT8gZpXhFcj5adnfmqI/s1600/FullSizeRender-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP76Kw13oT70SXrIvplstAOYXb8ewa88ern3D5EER2M9VC7Ayf1IKgiX4rHL_9WFfesxVVFNa7uVQYMsuHTPbhH4PufByFV0WoPwzdcNyUPcQHIKTg0yqETAw_IT8gZpXhFcj5adnfmqI/s400/FullSizeRender-4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Strolling along the cold, windy beach today I found this yellow Sea Whip washed ashore. I've drawn sea whip before in my journal, but this time it's a little different because this one supports two Atlantic Winged Oysters that had attached themselves to the branch with thin brown wire-like things, apparently made by the animal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Around here, sea whip can be found growing in the deep water creeks that run through the marsh behind the island. I've seen them many times at low tide, swaying in the currents below my kayak. All the colors grow together, and from above it looks like a magical world. I know there are crabs that live on the sea whip, but didn't know that these little winged oyster shells (full size is 2.5") use the branches, as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As mentioned on the page above, sea whip comes in many colors, including purple, orange, white, red, and yellow. A fun tidbit: the tiny crabs that live on the sea whip eat the little coral animals in the tiny holes of the whip, so each crab turns the color of the whip it's living on. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtntcjeL1nw1zy8nuccBTuC9nstnaI5QGIVWdTSyNS_tzRc3DOz28hVHZAlzj31kIoPLzvW9_lNP4sVbAXx0T4TCPW19zly9cB5ZzYg4lUdYF8tEHo_pOz5T8jNp4R93kW5ecltx1yGbk/s1600/FullSizeRender-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtntcjeL1nw1zy8nuccBTuC9nstnaI5QGIVWdTSyNS_tzRc3DOz28hVHZAlzj31kIoPLzvW9_lNP4sVbAXx0T4TCPW19zly9cB5ZzYg4lUdYF8tEHo_pOz5T8jNp4R93kW5ecltx1yGbk/s320/FullSizeRender-3.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My ride to heaven.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-34026586073770979112016-02-17T18:30:00.000-05:002016-02-17T18:30:23.465-05:00Winter Beach: Operculum, Sand Collar & Fossil Turtle Shell<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy19IYMk_YEFWaKPV4uK8oAsmVyvmckglJZgAvasvd7ELhqrJ-vvnUmvuhexlB7Ogc-YXac6aMZZUAsa26qH8Hy9s26UeOEMIFdiJkMPwamw0RtAFXbXu4S4DEGM2o2Y2vGQINMMWQ7Lc/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy19IYMk_YEFWaKPV4uK8oAsmVyvmckglJZgAvasvd7ELhqrJ-vvnUmvuhexlB7Ogc-YXac6aMZZUAsa26qH8Hy9s26UeOEMIFdiJkMPwamw0RtAFXbXu4S4DEGM2o2Y2vGQINMMWQ7Lc/s320/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When I was younger the beach was all about sun, heat, baby oil, suntan, bikinis. Summer couldn't come soon enough. Now, though, it's a winter beach that calls to me. Cold and wild, empty except for birds, I love a winter beach, and this week I am thrilled to be staying on my favorite island, <br />
Edisto. The goodies in my post above were things I picked up as I strolled along. <br />
<br />
The operculum is basically a trap-door used by all univalves when they pull themselves into their shell for protection. It feels almost like thin wood, and a fresh one looks like it could have been stained and varnished. The one above is large, 4 1/2" long, so it came from a really big shell. I mentioned Horse Conchs, but it could also be from Lightning Whelk, Knobbed Whelk, or Channeled Whelk, all of which are abundant on this island.<br />
<br />
The sand collar is the egg case of a Shark Eye. They are made of sand and mucus and encircle the mother shell. As she creates it she embeds her eggs in the sand. As soon as they dry, the collars return to being sand, so if you find one, don't plan on saving it.<br />
<br />
More to come!<br />
<br />
Helen<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-WcC5itOF3mpqkqaW2KFxCJ0OOwKOX5LJQH7IQIwCL20eKqVsWElM-QN56J-jU9GXnotElqWGEDAwjSiGDHYqrUVifVtPJaWkI6ph-NGt9WsSRpnhXKWHLhCfvy0VNt2hOnPBz1kuFpI/s1600/IMG_9893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-WcC5itOF3mpqkqaW2KFxCJ0OOwKOX5LJQH7IQIwCL20eKqVsWElM-QN56J-jU9GXnotElqWGEDAwjSiGDHYqrUVifVtPJaWkI6ph-NGt9WsSRpnhXKWHLhCfvy0VNt2hOnPBz1kuFpI/s320/IMG_9893.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-48803603750527020232016-02-12T11:17:00.002-05:002016-02-12T11:17:43.984-05:00Partridgeberry<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJdTyDXNFE_8ZTJB7OLcqVn7nFsPrzqBXANa0lOZA4jenGNQyapUWsDY_0UjETcnrBp-Eqo2nquHcNBA-Zv1QN3pTky9NAWy00L_845PQH_UG7VwMLatAk1sj33nu8fgeZbkGl71hdGs/s1600/IMG_8335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJdTyDXNFE_8ZTJB7OLcqVn7nFsPrzqBXANa0lOZA4jenGNQyapUWsDY_0UjETcnrBp-Eqo2nquHcNBA-Zv1QN3pTky9NAWy00L_845PQH_UG7VwMLatAk1sj33nu8fgeZbkGl71hdGs/s320/IMG_8335.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Winter in the upstate of South Carolina is a time of contrasts. In our woods lie great expanses of gray and naked deciduous forests which show off the rolling, leaf-littered terrain. As a native Floridian I truly love the naked trees. They are an amazing sight, even after living at Middlewood for 26 years.<br />
<br />
There are also thick evergreen pines that sway and groan in the cold winter blasts. These are mostly loblolly, Virginia, and shortleaf pines. They line our sunny pipelines. Tucked under the pines you will find the lovely Partridgeberry (Mitchella repens), small evergreen vines sporting vivid red berries in the winter. I drew the one above on a cold, sunny day in January. Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2952724973004388438.post-68373216838216987522014-11-08T18:44:00.000-05:002014-11-08T18:44:04.131-05:00Sassafras Leaves, Carolina Locust<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cAhGUTwpSm0RHjixKh_ZauBQHRxCIRfzczw3teJBehn8EbDtCszB8_kzulQEHWg3hoMhJDnfzSUPyVjcZPE8YtT4tLVZttbVuWGIJu7R-CPdxYeq_XK9H-araq7H9DtoJskblLH6ytc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2cAhGUTwpSm0RHjixKh_ZauBQHRxCIRfzczw3teJBehn8EbDtCszB8_kzulQEHWg3hoMhJDnfzSUPyVjcZPE8YtT4tLVZttbVuWGIJu7R-CPdxYeq_XK9H-araq7H9DtoJskblLH6ytc/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="232" width="320" /></a></div>
Another beautiful fall day at Middlewood! Daisy, Dukie and I headed out around noon to enjoy the bright colors and cool breeze. It was best kind of hiking weather. On the pipeline, I can (and do) easily switch from hiking on the shady side (cold) to the sunny side (hot, if there is no breeze). I wove back and forth today. After we crossed Meetinghouse Creek (cold) we headed up the other side and walked to the sunny side of the far hill to settle down, me to draw, dogs to nap. After about ten minutes, Daisy and Duke moved from the sun to the shade. Later, Duke wandered off to explore in the woods and Daisy came to sit in front of me to make sure I was safe.<br />
<br />
I put my face into the sun and enjoyed the toasty silence with occasional rustling oak leaves and Crows cawing in the distance. Opening my eyes I noticed in the distance rippling heat waves rising from the warm, sunny side of the pipeline. Suddenly, a loud <i><b>BZZZZT!</b> </i>broke the silence as a Carolina Locust sprang from the grass beside me, flew about 30 feet, and landed back in the grass. You always know a Carolina Locust by his black and yellow rear wings, which are only seen when they fly. Otherwise, they are just average looking grasshoppers. This guy flew his short "hops" around me for the whole hour I sat drawing. <b><i>BZZZZZT!</i></b><br />
<br />
Sassafras leaves come in various shapes, all on the same tree. Here are three examples, but the possibilities are endless. These leaves are past the color stage, but aren't the shapes beautiful?<br />
<br />
By the time I'd finished drawing, I had taken off my fleece jacket, put my hair in a pony tail, but still felt hot, so we trekked home on the cool, shady side of the pipeline. On the windy hilltop I felt cool and put the jacket back on. <br />
<br />
Here are some photos of our trees, and my sweet guard collie.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGOu0cYbIiv6r_75BoudrfvrnfZj0LbrtMf3FIn4P8Snvd0bDCfc3uibjamhK-ES82WgXmrVhWEn0_TS3QV4ekkqc3SPu4w4bPutR_YYSPeeFcHw4sPWyY50E9DFWINCWMJkcFj2LsEY/s1600/1385373_10204775886740575_3509065322557467287_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGOu0cYbIiv6r_75BoudrfvrnfZj0LbrtMf3FIn4P8Snvd0bDCfc3uibjamhK-ES82WgXmrVhWEn0_TS3QV4ekkqc3SPu4w4bPutR_YYSPeeFcHw4sPWyY50E9DFWINCWMJkcFj2LsEY/s1600/1385373_10204775886740575_3509065322557467287_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClXfknikiEEK-_BOLYJpRaFb7R6HbzVqlnOboio7SFgyPfLMd7KZFJoLe_AgceB5PjqetukdOaVLuxJp0WzzL8C-ascDxiIonFqaAmNbQ-j3QevOwtGwmRTSt9_bo2dl6AEKjLEaGwac/s1600/10402700_10204800268590106_3687678218933792453_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClXfknikiEEK-_BOLYJpRaFb7R6HbzVqlnOboio7SFgyPfLMd7KZFJoLe_AgceB5PjqetukdOaVLuxJp0WzzL8C-ascDxiIonFqaAmNbQ-j3QevOwtGwmRTSt9_bo2dl6AEKjLEaGwac/s1600/10402700_10204800268590106_3687678218933792453_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQM4QdFJdxXJNp9a51PLRTRKVS4Xz703K0J0fV1d7Qgp_LeznEydR9okwaOFjBWgsxmqcsBj8qHnXX24ERwf9x3STbyfcIpafvlsrMHzewZvp4x0NQCqT1ettk0zYS76-b2rcvMcf8qIo/s1600/10565008_10204811291465671_3237145165995076049_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQM4QdFJdxXJNp9a51PLRTRKVS4Xz703K0J0fV1d7Qgp_LeznEydR9okwaOFjBWgsxmqcsBj8qHnXX24ERwf9x3STbyfcIpafvlsrMHzewZvp4x0NQCqT1ettk0zYS76-b2rcvMcf8qIo/s1600/10565008_10204811291465671_3237145165995076049_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixV0N4QcFvQ6kLthufB38UAv22tkiCh9dJLy2Zo5H08T8TQcjyRz7yFl8cFx4TK7ZoO22bKLJGZ8lIyWL477gN0npiMnCMQ3jeQ0lBic5xaeMpcHjzg-eLXHYEX9roX7FandYwS93fp1g/s1600/10624785_10204775887700599_6204974788653733736_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixV0N4QcFvQ6kLthufB38UAv22tkiCh9dJLy2Zo5H08T8TQcjyRz7yFl8cFx4TK7ZoO22bKLJGZ8lIyWL477gN0npiMnCMQ3jeQ0lBic5xaeMpcHjzg-eLXHYEX9roX7FandYwS93fp1g/s1600/10624785_10204775887700599_6204974788653733736_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Helenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12103112100369318890noreply@blogger.com0