My Muse Mutters....

The Past Eight Weeks

2012-02-05T21:54:00.002-05:00

Are windows better lended
to looking out or looking in?

Are weeks and months
spent pondering
for beginnings?
or for ends?

Do questions demand answers
or do they simply point the way...

Is thinking useful to the soul
or a tool used for delay?

Do searching thoughts find purpose,
direction, new design - or simply give
my heart a chance to stop, review,
're~find'?
FDF 2/2012

CYBER MONDAY SALE @ Studio Website

2011-11-24T08:10:00.000-05:00

Yes Indeed

A Cyber Monday Sale
At the Studio Website!

Spin twirl hop happy dance fun!

Some new work

and some

Great Deals

So on Monday stop by

And

Say

Hi!

http://www.fdferrisbeads.com/

2011-11-23T21:26:00.000-05:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Wowie Zowie I've been busy! lol
I"m hoping to have some new and neat pieces ready for you
by Cyber Monday (how about a little sale?) Tho you know how
things shift and change so just check back here Monday :-)

There have been so many things

2011-09-11T20:34:00.001-05:00

That have seemed to need attention, time, effort.

Things that have resisted being moved to the 'later' list...
Things keeping me from being here. Keeping me from writing time.

Friends with worries who need an ear, a shoulder, a hug.
More hours tending needed by the studio, the business .

Some days I've stolen over the summer to spend with those I love.

Nothing wrong, just life running at a rate of speed
that's a half step faster than my step :-)

Days sneak by

East to West

Sunrise to sunset

Weeks become

Months

Time slides by....

I've missed being here,

Sharing my tiny bits of my reality

With all of you who stop by

I'll be here more soon.

Promise

Don't give up on coming by....

Ten Years Ago ~ Remembered Always....

2011-09-11T15:22:00.001-05:00

September 11th

Pain, Honor, Loss, Pride, Disblief, Compassion

Remember Always Those For Whom Time Stopped That Day
Both Living And Departed...

Good Things Happen (still)

2011-07-25T10:30:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure where the last four weeks have gone, quietly slipping past.
Amid scorching heat and non-specific bustling hither and thither and yon (isn't 'thither' a neat word? and 'yon' is kind of intersting too, lol) week upon week elapsed.

Time does that.
It's immensely present hour by hour but in larger increments it's difficult to quantify or track aside from the intermittent glance at the wall calendar (yes I still use one - the epitomy of low tech - why I like it suppose).

But amid the last few weeks one remarkable event is noteworthy.
One event speaks to two other event tied by a heartwarming thread.

One evening, of one week, my husband mentioned to me he'd crossed paths with a gentleman who was turned around in his directions, distraught about arriving on time for an appointment. Alone and upset my husband took him directly to the location of his appointment (the sort of thing he often does). They chatted a bit about life, the world, handsakes were exchanged and the gentleman headed thru the door to his appointment.

One afternoon, another week, in wallymart, I came across a woman struggling to lift some portable folding tables into her shopping cart (those 'portable tables' are heavy! lol). I asked her if I could give her a hand and we made short work of it. She mentioned she was picking them up for a special party her daughter was planning. Smiles and thanks/welcomes exchanged I went on to shop and she, to cash out.

One late afternoon, of yet another week my husband and I were struggling to lift a VERY heavy item into our ancient old vehicle. We're pretty experienced at finding ways to do the unlikely if not impossible task, lol. But this was vexing us. We couldn't muscle it in. We'd failed at drawing it in from the inside via a heavy packing blanket. We couldn't get it to roll up the ramps we'd pulled from the garage. And did I mention it was 98 in the shade that day? We were standing, staring, when a SUV drove by, turned around and came back. As it pulled over to our side of the road the driver called out "would you like some help"?

Hating to bother him we laughed and said we weren't sure it had beat us yet, but again he asked and was out of his car on his way to help. In moments the impossible item was securely placed. Smiles, thanks and handshakes were exchanged. I mentioned what he'd done gave me hope in humanity. He smiled broadly. In moments he was back in his car, on his way down the road. We headed out shortly thereafter.

It's really so easy to make the world a better place. To instill a bit of hope. To affirm we're all along for the ride of life together.

And is a coincidence that Karma and Kindness both begin with K? I think not.

Doing something kind does make a difference. It does have an impact. Especially if you're on the receiving side. But it's equally impressive to the heart and mind being the giver of help or kindness. The world does sense and register your choices, your efforts. Even the smallest ones. The ways of the world rise, fall and alter ~ one nano-effort, one choice at a time.

Dad...

2011-06-18T14:36:00.005-05:00

Dad, From the beginning

We've been close

We've been friends

You've been with me for every important step

In my life

You've taught me, shown me no dream is out of my reach

You've taught me how much it matters

to find time for the people you love

You've protected me from bugs LOL

(as quickly as you can grasshopper, hit the horse-fly!)

You've shared the world with me (Pre-Paris Flight)

Watching you and Mom

You've shown me

what loyalty and love
and marriage are about

You continue teaching me Dad
About glass, about life, about
marriage, about goals.
You teach me to
always ALWAYS become
a better person

You've taught me that goals are
for ALL of life ~ that any goal or
dream is always achieveable
if you're willing to work for it
(Picture: Black Belt awarded to my father at age 78)

Even now, with grey hair on both of us
(tho I'm not admitting to a day over 35, lol)
you keep teaching me, by example and by word.
You keep teaching and I'll keep learning....
I love you Papa

Happy Mothers Day Mum....

2011-05-07T21:02:00.003-05:00

Mum

I'm one of the lucky women who had a wonderful mother in childhood

that grew to become my best female friend in adulthood.....

My mother has always found it easy to smile

(and loved jewelry as do I, lol)

(I think I have her eyes)

June Bride with her Navy Guy (Dad!)

No matter where we lived (amid numerous moves between east and west coast)

she created "magic" ~ christmas in tiny walk up apartments, special handmade birthday cakes......

Her spin on life has always been choose to be happy because there is

always something to be happy about!

She taught me how to roll my hair,
to wear a hat, to use makeup.
She also taught me to believe in
myself, to speak my mind (kindly)...
She taught me the universe did not
(does not, will not ever) revolve 'round me.
But as she taught me that also let me know
how loved I was, how loved I am....

She set(s) an example still that it's nice to
feel important but it's more important to be nice...

She taught me to dream, to expect
the unlikely. Santa, Easter Bunny,
Good over Evil. A career as a working artist.

She taught me to be a lady
who could also do any task
a man could do

She still is AMAZING, still my best girlfriend

we still laugh, she still teaches me about life...

Happy 'Mum's Day' Mom

Love you, love you, love you!

No Different Yet Special

2011-05-04T20:33:00.000-05:00

You are, by all definition, a handful of bulbs
A tiny smattering of the millions if not billions

That each Spring, past present and future
Awake from the earth to 'be'..

Each of you here with me is like your sisters

Inhabiting countries, islands, states, cities, towns

Your existance is linked to pots, plots and windowboxes

Of warming earth

You, each of you, who I think of as 'mine'

Are no different than your sisters

Heads raised to the faltering returning

Gentle Spring Sun

No different

Yet Special

I remember the day I found each of you

I was with my Mum at a big box store

I recall the sign that proclaimed your value

was designated by retail to be no more than 50 cents each
I was saddened and annoyed that they valued you so little

I was brokenhearted to hear the plan was to trash each of you

who went 'unpurchased'

by that weeks end...

I smile remembering my mother at my side

Helping me place as many of you into my cart as we could fit

Saving as many of you as the budget would allow

(I whispered a sad word of apology to those I could not save)

Driving home, she and I talked of gardens, of growth, of time

And in the coming days I planted you, one by one

In half frozen earth covering you with thatch to hide you

(a tiny bit)

from grazing hungry searching deer

Fragments of memory

Moments of time

Frozen in my soul

That come alive each Spring

Along with your return

You are no different

Than your millions, billions, zillions

Of sisters over the world,

thru ever returning Springs

But you are special

You who I think of

mine

FDFerris 2011

Kindness, Care, Words

2011-04-16T11:06:00.003-05:00

In the best of times

the kindness we give

elevates us....

In the worst of times

the kindness we give

defines us

Kind Care Can Be Given
At Not The Cost Of A Penny

But it always costs a moment of time

It always requires thinking

Beyond

Your

Self

In return

Kindness dividends

In ways

No stock market can steal

No government can tax

No passage of time can ever erase

fdf 2011

To see a beautiful example watch this

(With thanks to Ronni & Darlene for sharing this video link)

Old Friends

2011-04-15T21:03:00.000-05:00

Old Friends

Ever Patient
They Wait For Me

One By One
They Came To Live With Me
Shelf By Shelf
They Became

Old Friends

The Internet Really Makes Me Laugh Sometimes!

2011-04-08T08:18:00.004-05:00

This reminded me...

Years ago, (and this is a true story) we had a possum

stay with us briefly sheltering in the corner an open out-building.

She had her new babies in tow. We immediately

noticed that one was different. Ma Possum had adopted a

tiny wayward orphaned kitten somewhere along her travels.

She raised it with great success.

The kitten* not only survived, it thrived.

Apparently happy & healthy it nursed and frolicked with

its possum brothers and sisters. Eventually they all moved on.

*I've often wondered if the little guy suffered from identity or lifestyle issues, lol*

On my jewelry bench

2011-04-08T07:40:00.000-05:00

A peek at a piece currently 'in progress' on my jewerly bench at the moment....
(one of my lampwork beads, pearls, etc)

Well, on my leg actually lol

(too many bits spread out on the bench to take a picture I confess)

I find blue such a soothing and

calming color ~ to the eye and the heart.

Spring in NY

2011-04-01T08:41:00.001-05:00

Ah April in NY....

The Excitement of "Spring"!

Look! Look!
You can see ground (amid the snow)

You can see the snow shovels!

(as opposed to having to dig them from a

drift so you can dig snow away from the walks and drive)

Look! More snow is gently falling

(as opposed to blowing horizontally at 45mph)

Only a "small accumulation" is expected today!

(not 10-14 inches)

Oh April in NY...

Relief at last! lol

And before anyone asks, no this is NOT an April fools joke*

(*this pic was added today a la my phone camera)

If only it was an April fools joke ...

2011-03-23T10:50:00.000-05:00

Does it happen to you too?

2011-03-12T14:05:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I wonder what's wrong with my mind.
Oft times I know what's wrong with it - it belongs to me - 'nuff said.....
Then there are days that I'm back to wondering, really wondering - like today. I load the washer (which is probably older than many of you reading this - this machine is loyal but old)! I walk away. I hear it whirring and whining and splishing and splashing along in the background.

Then I notice I hear nothing.

It's a lot like kids and construction. When there is no noise ~~you know you're in deep crap~~ you know something is wrong. You go. You look. I went. I looked. Note to self: (and others) leaving the lid open on a full load of wash that continues to run is a bad idea. Trust me on this. I suppose on new washers there is a saftey-thing-a-roo that keeps the machine from running if the lid is open. Maybe a cyber voice warning statement or a beep or cheep or chirp. Maybe new machines send you a tweet from twitter alerting you.....

But me and my mind and my loyal old washer learned a new fact today. Open lids on running washeres are a bad idea. Yes. Bad. A lesson. One that once was enough applies to quite well, lol

Here's hoping once was enough for my mind to remember in the future!

Just a bit 'o happy for today

2011-02-28T13:57:00.000-05:00

Happy sights found in my world....

Little snippets of color

Of life

Most times it's the little things that 'make a day' :-)
A pop of color, an email from a friend for no reason, feeding bird-buddies, endless coffee
comments found here ~ sharing the weave of similarities and differences ~ in our lives!
Small pleasures

That

Aren't
Really

So
Small
At

All

:-)

Aaaarrgghhhhhhhh

2011-02-25T12:02:00.005-05:00

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 5 PM EST this afternoon.
* Hazards... heavy snow.
* Accumulations... storm totals of 8 to 12 inches.
* Winds... northeast 10 to 20 mph... becoming northwest and
increasing to 15 to 25 mph this afternoon with gusts to 35 mph.

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

Third major storm in six days ...

Meh.....

I know it's wicked all over the country, but I thought having a tiny cup cake sized
pity party would be ok ~ you know, just a tiny bit-o-whining prior to heading back
out to shovel AGAIN, lol

PS
Isn't it cute how my weather service uses little 'snowflake-esque' asterisks rather than
solids as bullet points for their postings? lol

In the home stretch

2011-02-18T10:26:00.003-05:00

Mini Daffs
Photo FDFerris

Week upon week
Of four degrees
Week upon week of
   Fourteen degrees
    Winds that howled
     As wolves-a-hunting

     But yesterday
      But today
        Fifty degrees
         Forty degress

            Sun and sky send snow on her way
              It's a short reprieve I know
]


                 But it's Spring, peeking around the corner
                   Just before she enters the year

Random Studio Views

2011-02-10T08:50:00.001-05:00

Where do studio artist

lampwork beads come from?

From glass rods!

And torch flames!

And brick kilns!

Oh my!

(lol)

My muse mutters, my hands 'transcribe'

Italian glass melts, solid to liquid

I coax it into muse-whispered shapes

Kilns anneal

Magic revealed.....

And that is where artist created lampwork beads come from

One, by one by one

How many days till Spring?

2011-02-07T20:23:00.002-05:00

My bird bath frog seeming to signal for help!

windswept snow filled fields

I'm pretty sure you're weary of seeing pictures of snow - yet I somehow can not refrain from sharing mine.....

So if you're tired of snow-snaps, skip this post but if you're interested, keep reading!

Snow reaching window height!

It is beautiful.....

One of the endless essential paths shoveled

Yes, tell me is it long till Spring arrives?
(feel free to lie to me if necessary, lol)

The Sun Dial
(as IF we have much winter sun-Not!)

Happy little faces :-)

2011-01-29T14:01:00.000-05:00

As January winds down and February nears
The desire for color becomes akin to a desert thirst for me

So to see

These happy little faces

Smiling at me

As I rounded the corner
To check out at Aldi's

Made me smile....

Unexpect Happiness

For 99 cents

(quite a deal if you ask me! lol)

Acting on my word for 2011

2011-01-27T11:51:00.001-05:00

This winter has been remarkable. Snow in states that never see chilly weather much less snow.

For those who live in the northeast as I do it has been brutal. The snow has been endless. The gray skies more ominpresent than usual.

Bleh.
And the heat bills. They could bring you to tears.
Or insanity.
Or both.

I've always winter-treated windows & doors. But of late it has become my personal quest to find every open space, every leaking window, every bit of 'frost' and then irradicate any 'cold connection' I've found. With dedication both DH and I have made progress. Much has been improved. Much remains. "Take that!' I whisper to each window & door (and ok, yes, with a bit of a 'bbbwwwaahhhhhh' laugh as I proceed). Hey, it's part of the process.... lol

But as I'm working along, caulking, sealing, quasi-cursing the cold I remember. I remember the word I chose for 2011. The goal I chose for these 12 months BOKEH ,,,,,
Stop.
Breathe.
Not only look but SEE.
Observe the outside-of-the-direct-line-of-sight beauty/good in any situation.
And these pictures along with the momentary pause & happiness capturing these images, are the outcome.

The image above and this one as the sun shown briefly and the blue of the sky reflected are the gifts 'bokeh' shared....

They say artists are inclined to notice beauty in small things. But I think the truth is that anyone who looks finds a treasure trove.

If my campaign is successful, if the cold is kept outside and the warm inside. If the dragon-of-heat-bills is slain these images will 'ner again be seen.

And dontcha know I'll miss their beautiful flowing delicate shapes. Another lesson. What seems (or even is) a problem at one point in time still possessed beauty. Still had merit. Or was not without merit. There is always something bright shimmering in the darkness of difficulty. But to find it. To see it. There, ah.... there is the challenge.

Bokeh.
A good word.
A good goal.
Here's to many 2011 moments not missed because of it......

Brrrrrr....

2011-01-22T14:00:00.000-05:00

A fairly quiet day - certainly more quiet than yesterday (but we won't even go into it, lol)
There's a great deal more snow now than there was when I grabbed this image in late Fall

But (window screen aside) it does show how snow has found its way

into every corner of the world here, lol

The snow, the cold

set to the countdown

of days until Spring!

Laundry Lines In Winter

2011-01-20T10:30:00.001-05:00

You know I love to hang laundry outside Spring/Summer/Fall. Love it love it love it. Earthy, simple, free, eco-friendly. There is a comfort and timelessness in the sound of clotheslines full of fabrics slapping in the wind as they move, sway and fly. There is a scent to clothing and linnens that are wind whipped, sun soaked, buzzed by bees and sung to by birds that bounce can't provide in a bottle.

The weather-worn clothes pins, the hawks that circle, watching as I work (curious to see if the small white wash cloths are 'edible prey' perhaps)? Each of these pieces and parts of line drying are momentary enjoyments, interaction with the outside world that no electric dryer can give me*

Then winter arrives. Cold - oh my gawd - colder than cold in NY!
Damp hands stick to everything!

Clothes pins freeze. Fabrics freeze dry (literally! lol) Yet still, it's an odd kind of beauty (if it's not blowing 30 mph winds) :-) The bees are, of course, asleep. But the birds chatter and the hawks circle still.... The wind whips each offering (tho only for as long as it takes to freeze)!

On the sunny days it's still beautiful. I don't linger in the winter, lol

And the clothes have to thaw before I fold them :-)

But the snap-freeze, the chill winter winds

leave their own unique scent on each piece dried on the winter lines

And in spite of my lack of fondness for winter

I love the clotheslines still...

*There's no substitute for an electric dryer when you need something quick or when it rains for dayssss*

Rumbly In The Tumbly

2011-01-13T14:49:00.000-05:00

Oh the yummy goodness...
Gone for another year (or until I break down and make more)...

Oh the sweet confection!
Every last crumb consumed!

Woe is me, lol Not a single iced chicken or star remains (except on my hips :-)

A woman without a single remaining holiday cookie from this years tripple batch am I....
Whimper, whimper, whine....

My word for 2011

2010-12-30T12:59:00.005-05:00

It seemed to begin almost as a cyber/blog/novelty. It seemed to catch on as a 'thang' people were doing online. Then a wonderful transformation occured. This quasi-novelty-cyber/blog-'thang' evolved into something real. Something of importance. It grew into a thoughtful, introspective shared journey. Words are being chosen all over cyber-blog-dom. Most fascinating to me are the stories, goals, dreams, passions, worries, hopes, flights of the human heart explanations that encircle the choice of each chosen word. Neat.

Not being one for new year resolutions the 'one word that does (or you want to) mean something for the entire year ' drew me in. But only ONE word? Nearly impossible for me. Even harder for me than Haiku or Tweeting, lol. That took a bit of pondering. Let me say it again.

Choose one single word.

(this would be where anyone who know me begins - understandably - to laugh. Heartily.)

But I've done it. I've chose one word. One single word for 2011.

Bokeh

(you weren't expecting a normal word from ME, were you?!??)

Oddly this photography term fits my goal for 2011 perfectly.

**I've been immersed in photography as a hobby all my life. But for non-photo-geeks bokeh is the blur & the aesthetic quality of the blur in out- of-focus areas of an image** A quick google of the term will pull a wealth of beautiful examples till I can place one here on the post.

What bokeh whispers to me is this: Learn to stop, breathe, listen and look at all the parts of any and everything and appreciate the good aspects of the 'out of focus' (read out of control or unplanned) aspects of each project, goal, event, plan, emotion, success, failure, day, dream.

I am so inclined to line my ducks up in a row. I even have suggestions on how they should quack. And in what order they should quack. I focus (no photography pun intended) so intensely on the core of whatever I'm doing that much of the surrounding detail, enjoyment, success even, blurs.... I don't appreciate the 'blur' ~ the bokeh ~ for the depth it could and would add if only I'd notice. Much the same with failures. No unsuccessful event is totally without a plus on the outer edges. Whatever didn't work out the way I planned or expected is always surrounded in a haze of information, secondary possibility and the (not infrequent) truth that I am/was ultimately happier with the winding ways of fate not giving me what I went after.

I know intellectually there's warm, exciting, fascinating, comforting depth to everything that happens in the surrounding bokeh~haze. Those extra layers may be nearly invisible or blurry but they're there and are worth taking the time, making the effort to appreciate.

You'll be seeing the word bokeh weave its way thru my writings often this coming year as I try to learn to appreciate all things that are out of focus in 2011. I think these layers surrounding everyday life, every event, are equally - if not more - beautiful and important because of their softened 'made you look' haze.

So that's MY word.

What's yours?

At last....

2010-12-28T10:28:00.000-05:00

At last the gears change & the pace calms a bit
~
The final holiday pieces of jewelry alongside

the last-moment flurry of ornamnents were all

finished and shipped in time for Christmas.
They're now happily in the hands of their new owners!

(& thanks to all those who purchased & emailed me with 'they loved it' updates)
:-)

Within the next few days the wild disaster that took shape
in both the glass and jewelry studio work areas will be 'tamed' lol.
New pieces of wearable art
: earrings bracelets & necklaces :
created with lampwork from my bench as well as
pieces created with pearls, gemstones, vintage beads
will be appearing on the website for you to view!

AND there's exciting newness ahead - stay tuned!

Merry Happy Contentment

2010-12-24T12:38:00.001-05:00

MY WISH FOR EACH OF YOU

WHO SHARES TIME WITH ME HERE

CAN BE CAPTURED IN ONE WORD

CONTENTMENT

I HOPE THAT THIS SEASON BRINGS

EACH OF YOU REASONS LARGE OR SMALL

TO STOP FOR JUST A MOMENT AND KNOW

THE WARMTH OF CONTENTMENT....

IT IS, AS ALL THINGS IN LIFE,

NOT A CONSTANT
BUT WITH THAT IN MIND

MOMENTS OF CONTENTMENT

ARE ALL THE MORE A GIFT.

AND IF RIGHT NOW, AT THIS TIME

THERE'S NONE IN YOUR LIFE TO BE FOUND

MY WISH IS THAT IT WILL COME
IN THE DAYS THAT STRETCH OUT AHEAD.

MERRY HAPPY EVERYONE

HAPPY MERRY INDEED....

Done tho a bit late-ish! lol

2010-12-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

Just in from the cold and the snow (and a little ice that had to be scraped from the car this morning)!

Food is all done now and Yay! the last tiny (as in baby!) prezzie I had ordered arrived at the post office (a bit behind sched due to weather I guess). I swooped to pick it up from the post office peeps on my rounds so I can get it wrapped/repacked & sent out asap..... Sadly it will be late to arrive as the christmas surprise I had planned (can't say more ~ she reads here & I don't want to ruin the surprise! lol) but I hope it brings just as much happiness as if it had been on time :-)

In other news it looks like the christmas cookies are going to be new-years cookies if I can't get them done tomorrow. But that may not be bad - what better way to start the year that with cookies?!?? lol
Happy merry to each and everyone who shares my world here with me - thank you!

Now off to do some unpacking/repacking/putting away of things AND have a cuppa to warm up!

Outside lights Yum!

2010-12-23T10:45:00.001-05:00

Is there anything quite as beautiful and inspiring as all the outside lights and decorations?!
Aside from a bit of gas for the drive it's an almost free joy of Christmas....

I've taken so many pictures of outside decorations that I like (and may try next year) that
I've had to create a separate folder for them, lol

Toy Soldiers

2010-12-22T07:26:00.006-05:00

There are so many beautiful images of the holiday to be found online! Each beautiful, each singing in its own way.... So I thought I'd share a handful of images that I'm drawn to with you over the coming days....

Here is todays picture that I love!
Look at these Toy Soldiers standing guard in the glowing tree lights.
Side by side they stand at attention until Santa Arrives :-)

The simple joys of Chrismas

2010-12-21T08:03:00.004-05:00

There are so many beautiful images of the holiday to be found online! Varied use of color, degree of detail. Simple, complex. Contemporary & old world. Monochromatic & colorful. Each beautiful, each singing in its own way....

So I thought I'd share a handful of images that I'm drawn to with you over the coming days....

And if, in the last minute rush you aren't able to stop by again my warmest wishes for a Merry Happy Christmas. Not necessarily filled with presents, or vast tables of eatery, or grand events.

What I wish for you is the warmth of happiness in the simple joys of the season -

2010-12-17T11:12:00.002-05:00

From my mum via email today lol

How cute is this?!!!!!
Love it! (and truth be told it's a bit how I feel trying to tie up all loose ends)

How about you? Are you ready?
*if you have to lie to me to say you're not ready yet either I think that would be ok lol*

Whaaaaat???!!!!

2010-12-15T14:36:00.001-05:00

Paper Hopes

2010-12-01T19:09:00.001-05:00

Today, amid an unexpected snowstorm, slippery roads, a cranky waitress and other day to day detritus I noted I was beginning to feel just the slightest bit cranky. Nothing intense or overt. Emotional diaper rash would best describe the pathway my mood was taking. The grapes at my first grocery stop were moldy, the bank computer was sluggish. The diaper rash-ness intensified. Sigh. Several stops later, I was at the last errand of my day, Walmart. Entering the store, wobbly wheeled snow cover cart (two additional annoyances) in hand it caught my eye. It was sad. It was forlorn. Just shy of forsaken. A tiny little artificial tree. It's branches were filled with less-than-perfectly-cut pieces of paper. Intended to be rectangles, many were versions of rectangles. Hung by ribbons.

Cranky or not there was something about that tree. Those clumsily cut pieces of paper. It was a vision of imperfection. It struck me as I viewed that quasi tragic little tree that the heartfelt honest imperfectness - the humanity it proudly (even defiantly) exuded is what I've missed most about christmas for a long time. I couldn't walk by it.... It wouldn't let me.

I turned over the first beribboned paper to read the request.
In printed hand it said, simply, soap.
I turned over another tag and found, again, one word. Deodorant.
I turned over another.
In beautiful scripted handwriting, just one word filled the space - toothpaste.
I turned over the next. A child had printed - a shirt. Any color. Any kind.
I couldn't stop turning and reading tags....
The next asked for a toothbrush. Underneath in smaller letters it said toothpaste too?
I turned over the next revealing this wish - a comb.

I think I stopped breathing for a moment.
I think my heart stopped for a second. Or two.
I know I felt embarrassed at my irritation over the falling snow
(snow falling on my heated home)
I know I felt absurdly foolish to have been annoyed with the waitress
(while eating my lunch out)
Like a shock of electric current it occurred to me how fortunate I am.
I hardly think about having all the things on those tags.
I hardly think of many other comforts in my life
I have never been cold, hungry, dirty, unclothed.
I have never longed for a comb, deodorant, toothbrush, or toothpaste too?
(as tho asking for a toothbrush AND toothpasste was an excessive request)
I have never had to contemplate how hard it would be to ask for those things, if needed

I'm a fairly no-nonsense, non-weepy person by nature.
But I found it growing difficult to read those little pieces of paper hope bleary eyed
I gathered as many of those beribboned odd shaped tags as my budget could cover
Next week I'm heading back to that tree again to gather and fill more wishes

I found a whole new meaning in the holidays today.
In a Walmart.
Hanging on the branches of a bent up fake tree.

Life is full of surprises.
And lessons.
And Paper Hopes

FDFerris copyright 2010

What can I say?

2010-12-01T07:30:00.004-05:00

LOL I try really really I try NOT to let things follow me home (that's another post in and of itself)!

But look, just look at this face.....

Could you have left him behind?!????
(assuming of course you have a fondness for frogs sitting on orbs like I do, roflmao)

Ribbbitttttttt

Now I have to resist the urge to put a tiny little christmas hat and/or bow on him.... Help me.....

HEY! Actually you can help me! In comments tell me your opinion - vote 'yes or no' on
a christmas outfit for frog!

PS don't forget to swing by yesterdays post to see remaining beads supersale link (at Flickr)

Ribbittttttttt

Cyber Monday Sold Out (thank you!) so it's extended to Tues (new work)

2010-11-29T20:25:00.002-05:00

2011 Cyber Monday (and yes, lol 2011 Tardy Tuesday!) can be found on the studio website this year!
www.fdferrisbeads.com
THREE pages of items on sale - see page directory at the website for cyber-sale pages 1, 2 and 3!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NEWS! I've just added beads a la' FLICKR for a TARDY TUESDAY sale Everything SOLD for Cyber Monday - thank you! But I'd intended to have even more to offer & since (lol) I couldn't quite get everything listed I'm extending the sale into Tuesday (Tardy Tuesday in honor of ME not getting everything listed yet) :-) So far it's only the images and bead names (use the bead name to request/buy a bead) by emailing me at glasschick at yahoo dot com (you know how to adjust the email addy :-) with the bead name in the subject line......

EVERY bead, button, focal single or set, boro or moretti on the FLICKR Tardy Tuesday Set Showcase is ONLY $6.99! (plus 2.50 shipping and sales tax if shipped to a NY addy).

$6.99! That's less than half price on several of them! Yay!

The details and more beads will be going up tonite and tomorrow. First to email me at glasschick at yahoo dot com gets the bead and I'll mark sold as quickly as I can to avoid bead-buyis-interruptus (LOL) Here's the link

Set page that shows pics in stationary fashion (you can click for detail info) http://www.flickr.com/photos/55279639@N06/sets/72157625495079150/

Or this link (just below) that takes you directly to the page showing all the detail info on each bead (and allows for comments) ~ I like to make every version of viewing easily available :-) After all, I live for your lampwork-bead-related-happiness! http://www.flickr.com/photos/55279639@N06/sets/72157625495079150/detail/

NEWEST on the website http://www.fdferrisbeads.com/ are:
Snowman ornament, heart button
Reliquia (female torso)
(Go to New work page 2 from the menu above & scroll down the page to see them)!

~~~ If you'd like an email when new work goes up on the studio website email me at glasschick@yahoo.com with 'subscribe' in the subject line

Perfect As It Is

2010-11-28T11:53:00.002-05:00

No photoshop
No "paint"
No fix or crop
Or straighten....

Not one of these was needed
To improve these bytes
Sun painted..

Some moments and some images
Are perfect on their own
Unaided...
FDFerris 2010

Gobble!

2010-11-25T10:39:00.000-05:00

Only a quick note at the moment to say Happy Thanksgiving to each of you - more of a post later :-)

Knockin On The Door

2010-11-21T12:41:00.001-05:00

A little bit 'o ice

on the pond.....

No doubt about it

Winter's on her way

Selling What You Create

2010-11-18T11:28:00.003-05:00

It doesn't vary. Not one bit. Insanity abounds, lol.

Preparing for a 'go-to-the-site' show or preparing for an in-studio show/sale or taking images and uploading for a website sale. It's all the same.
Lots of work, lots of late nites. And did I mention the insanity? yes, I believe I did, roflmao

As it happens this moment finds me preparing for a website upload of new work, with some pieces going to Etsy perhaps.

But the same mind-muttering occurs as if I were packing to head to a show (as I did years ago) or preparing for a studio sale or selling via the studio website. Do I have enough? Is the mix of offerings well balanced? Is the price spread what it should be? LOL exhausted before I even begin the selling with all my second-guessing! I suspect every artist, offering work for sale goes thru much the same review rundown.

The funny thing is that most believe for all decades (tho I'm not a day over 30 something ok?) I have created, sold, taught, had an online presence I undoubtedly have a neat tidy formula for each aspect. Uber refined routines. Can do it in my sleep. Uh yeah right, roflmao. Perhaps I should have been an actress if that's how it appears! :-) Selling in each and every venue has variants that simply can't be planned for in a neat orderly way. Other anxieties are human and while they grow to be more familiar, they never cease....

There are tips and there are tricks and there are things (if anyone is interested?) I could share (let me know in comments) that are helpful. But mostly, selling is part work, part worry and a dash of insanity!

Now, I'd best return to all three, lol!

Creative Solitude

2010-11-17T18:21:00.001-05:00

I lived in solitude
in the country

And noticed how
The monotony
Of a quiet life

Stimulates the
creative mind.

A Einstein

Farewell

2010-11-12T08:16:00.002-05:00

The weeks from June to November

always include a stop at the local produce stand.

It's an errand (unlike grocery store shopping) that I look forward to & enjoy.

Part of the reason is the obvious visual charm

But my love of 'farm stand' perusing goes so much deeper than the mix of colors & textures!

The smells! The weathered wood crates! The props (look at that handsome old wheelbarrow)

Veg and fruit and flower all gathered in one place.

My mind dances with thoughts of medieval markets

Images of women with baskets in times long gone, the image paints itself in my mind...

Here, at farm-stands there are no

'departments'

No canned music

No disinterested 'employees'

Everything offered is nestled together

like a little community of growing visual or edible bits of life!

The 'music' is background chatter, news being shared,
concern for a neighbor or happy updates

Laughter.

(When was the last time you heard anyone laugh in a grocery store)?

A moment or two with the grower/owner - who often offers a slice of melon or apple

while telling the story, flavor, favored growing condition of whatever you

hold in your hand.

I want 2 apples? I can have two apples!

Not in plastic bags from far off lands but the two I hand pick from the crate.

Best of all, buying here supports the people who work tirelessly to plant, weed, water, watch-over

harvest, pack, carry, set up, watch-over-and-sell-themselves. No middleman. No overhead.

Every time you or I buy a piece of fruit or tomatoe or flower the farmer/grower
sets out here, this way, they see so much more profit for the efforts he or she has invested.

For the buyers, ah the taste! The freshness! The (often) non-pesticided-ness!

The not-been-in-plastic-bags-and-trucks-forever-ness! The choice!

Magic.

Simple, enjoyable, ancient magic...

If you've never tried it, you don't know what you're missing.
Find the nearest stand, open market next year and Go..

If you love it like I do, you understand when I tell you

how much I love, yet am saddened by pumpkin/apple/mum season

at the market because soon, it will be grocery-store-only season.

I'll be (as every year) counting the days till my little farm stand is open again!

I'll be counting down to being able to again buy good food from good people at good prices

And the magic.....

AHEAD

2010-11-10T11:00:00.001-05:00

The path ahead seems

(some days)

to be an upward climb

(in every direction)

Over and again

challenges and changes

layer upon one another

Yet the obstacles

fail to diminish

my desire to outwit

each stumbling block

put in place

The more I'm told

"You can't"

The more certain I become
That I Can and I will...

Verse and Image Copyright FDFerris 2010

First snow

2010-11-08T09:32:00.001-05:00

In a nod to the first snowfall
over the weekend....

NEW ON THE WEBSITE :-)
Snowman ornament (tree or window)

I AM...

2010-11-04T08:27:00.000-05:00

I AM

I am a wide open spaces kind of soul
Happiest in places where traffic noise is distant
(better yet, non existent)
And the flashing notice no cell signal is magic to me

More fond of moonlight than malls

More drawn to trails than tiaras
(tho I do have a tiara just in case I have a tiara longing)
I seek to be solitary from humanity yet surrounded by 'beings'

"Travel among us" whisper the hills to me

And when I do

The trees speak of legends

The birds whisper secrets

The paired hawks call borders

(While floating upon invisible currents of time)

I am alone

but

not

lonely

Within these hills

Within these moments
I can simply

contentedly

who
I

Am...

The trees, the birds, the border hawks
Understand the layers of time
The anchor and flow of the past
The immediacy of now
And the length of forever

They understand (and embrace)

the diversity

that dances thru all three layers

of time and life
(including the occasional tiara)

Mid-week-musing

2010-11-03T07:14:00.009-05:00

Up at 3:45 am (yes that is the normal time I ~~drag my butt~~ cheerfully spring out of bed daily). Tidy up of the personal being and go directly from bath to coffee pot. Do not pass go, do not collect 200 dollars and no get out of jail free card if you get in my way, lol Coffee in hand, the day begins officially.

No two days are the same in anyone's world. A bit more-so for me, a self employed artist. I have a core of routine but the edges of each day weave up (or unravel, lol) differently each & every 24 hour cycle. So when you stop by here to visit you will find ~~most anything/everything~~ a widely (or perhaps wildly!) varied array of topics/thoughts/images. Not necessarily cohesive. Not at all contrived. Just me.

Glass, verse, rambles, (occasional) rants, humor, whining, ups, downs, chase my tail around in circles.

What's the meaning of it all? For me? For you? For the world at large (or small)? Not a clue. But it's lovely to have cyber-company on the journey!

And please do feel at ease to chat along via comments. There is so much to be found reading the shared thoughts you leave behind here...

Views in my world

2010-11-02T06:28:00.001-05:00

Another view in my world :-)

new beads pulled and cleaned

yesterday from the studio kilns

Novemburrrrrrrr

2010-11-01T08:39:00.002-05:00

November
She's a tiny bit hard to get along with
She takes my orange yellow leaves
My dappled sun, no longer summer strong
But sill able to dance through
October Autumn leaves

November
She closes my windows
Stills my billowing lace sheers
That are my icon for summer daydreaming

She makes the sensible heat saving me
Go even one step further as I drop the blinds

November steals away the long long longgggg days
That have been trippingly decreasing for months
(but I blame her - she carries the designated time change date)

She's hard to befriend
This cold dark month

But she brings small gifts to win me over
(or to appease me at the very least)

In the form of crisp apples and pumpkins
In the longing for sweaters and blankets
Absent all hot steaming summer

And September-October-Fall

She gifts me with my renewed passion to bake
Breads and sweets will again fill the house

With inside aroma and coziness
Exiled in Summer

Perhaps I'll befriend her
These weeks, uncared for by me, of November
Not not for the gifts she brings
Not ignoring the loves of mine she takes

But perhaps I can befriend her

Based on the thought that she
Like me
Is, simply, who she is
Both good and bad interwoven, inseparable
The loveable (and unlikeable) parts of the whole
November
Copyright FDFerris 2010

2010-10-30T16:25:00.000-05:00

WE HAVE A WINNER!!!!
I waited till my husband was available to draw the blog giveaway winning name & he drew.....

Averilpam!
I've emailed you :-)

Now.... for everyone else who left a comment or joined me via 'follow' for this drawing, read on....
I wish I had beads enough and shipping funds enough to send each of you a little consolation prize...

Tho I'm not able to do that, I CAN give each of you who commented (or began to follow) via this post a small thank you gift ~ which is:

the first time you order from my website or the blog
(I sometimes offer goodies here for sale) the shipping will be free :-) as a small thank you for being part of this drawing. How does that sound???????

Lightbulb moment

2010-10-29T10:44:00.000-05:00

The greatest control
is found by deciding
not
to
control

FALL CLEANING

2010-10-28T07:47:00.005-05:00

Fall - time to clean-the-nest for me.
Odd? Well, lets say "different..."
I know Spring cleaning is the standard but it's never worked for me, lol. When Spring arrives she beckons, whispers, calls-me-outside! House and I have been together all winter. We love each other but we need a little time apart. Spring cleaning holds no magic for me.

Fall is the opposite.
Fall stirs up all the nesting needs in my little heart and mind. House and I will soon be returning to our beloved intense companionship of winter ( just shy of forever when you consider the length of winters in Upstate NY).

Decor & organizational thoughts dreams & schemes considered and shelved all Spring and Summer come to life. Sort! Clean! Paint! (Re)Arrange! Label! Projects!
Lions and tigers and bears (oh my!)

Coffee in hand this morning I started jotting down notes of the things I'd love to accomplish this Fall. Oh I love the list! On the list all things are possible! There is no nod to time. No thought of budget! The list is a daydream put to words. My not-yet-real plan in ink. What's on the list? LOL it's not finished yet. It'll take a few more cups of coffee to finish. But once it is I'll share my list.

If you're a fellow fall-cleaner I'd love to know what you have on your list?!

Views in my world

2010-10-27T08:55:00.000-05:00

Not all days are the same, lol
Some give time to ponder, to pontificate...
Some give time enough only to breathe!
So on the only time to breathe days
I thought maybe I'd simply share
a random view
from
my
world

2010-10-26T18:40:00.004-05:00

Many Thanks To Each And Every Person

Who left a comment on Andrew's blog during
my Thursday giveaway.

Sharing time, sharing words, sharing the fun!
Your comments made my heart sing....

I'd say I was pleased beyond words
but if you know me, (or you've been reading here ) you know (lol) I'm seldom without words :-)

So instead let me say "My thanks to each of you for all the kind thoughts you shared about my beads"!

I'm looking forward to visiting each of your blogs over the coming weeks, sharing in return and chatting to and fro. And I hope you'll stop by here again, from time to time!

PS Thanks too, to Andrew, for hosting the Thursday giveaway!

PSS Did you see Andrew's WONDERFUL news? (click here )

Faye

Thursday Giveaway! (One of THREE)!

2010-10-21T04:43:00.012-05:00

What fun it was, the giveaway at Andrew's Blog!

:-( But it's over & done :-(
Read on to join the giveaway here open till 12mn 10/28!

Welcome welcome to the blog edition of the Thursday Giveaway
curated by jewelry designer, artist, wordsmith, observer of life Andrew Thornton! The primary giveaway featuring my work this Thursday can be found on ~~Andrew's delightful blog~~ ~~(simply click the link to view and join in the fun of the giveaway there)!~~

I thought in addition to the giveaway Andrew is (was) hosting, it would be even more enjoyable to hold a second giveaway here on my journal! If one is good, two is better, yes? lol

To be entered in the blog-bead-giveaway-drawing HERE on my muse mutters, leave a comment on this post. I'll put your blog name or your name (if you don't have a blog) into the drawing. IF you also sign up to follow me here on blogger visibly (adding your little icon to my follow list) I'll add your name/or blog name again, doubling your chances to win the drawing here!

These beads as seen will go to the name drawn (the stone must remain with me, he's an old friend.....) The focal bead is large, dynamic. A deep brooding center is balanced by beige on each opposing end and further embellished with swirls and droplets of lavender. The focal is of moretti as are the companions. Fully properly annealed. Stringing access on the focal is top to bottom as seen.
Note: Beads are not for use by children of any age...

But wait, there's more! roflmao.

If ONE giveaway is great fun & TWO giveaways are exciting, aaaahhhhhh how about THREE!!?!!?? So yes, I'm having another give away on the studio website. After all, can there be such a thing as too much fun or too many beads? Hmmmm? I think not, lol

To view the website giveaway just click studio giveaway. At the bottom of the page you'll find the studio website giveaway! To be entered in the studio giveaway, sign up for my studio newsletter mailing list (link on main page and in page menu) for a chance to win the beads there.

My blog and website drawing will end (10/28)
Remember the drawing on andrew-thornton's blog will end 10/25

I'll also be adding new pieces from my studio to my website for the next seven days in case you want to do a bit of wandering/shopping while you're there :-)

Faye

The Quest Continues LLC

Tis the season

2010-10-18T12:35:00.011-05:00

FALL IN THE NORTHEAST

I have a theory that Fall is so beautiful here as an apology from Nature for Winter
It is an astoudingly beautiful time of year. A time I hold close. The color, the fading warmth. The time of year that is (for me) the season to review the year. I know, that's supposed to occur at the end of the year. But not for me. For me amid the splash of color, the freedom of the leaves as they swoop and swirl briefly en-route to the ground
is the time of review for me....
Fall is the time I glance back over the entire year.

Each peak and valley,each loss, each gain.
I fondly remember the moments of laughter.
I gently revisit the disappointments and pains.
Each joy, each angst a significant thread
in the warp and weave
of the dwindling year.

Amid the reds and yellows set to brilliant sun
Against the reflection of soaking rain
I turn each month, each event, every random moment
over in my mind.

Winter is too harsh and cold
for enjoyable introspection.
Annual review is best back-dropped
by color and wet and wind and dappled sun.

Old friends lost, new friends found.
Doors that closed, drawbridges that were secured.
Moats that needed to be filled (with water & alligators).
But there were windows opened and ladders extended.
Yin and Yang.

Good choices, bad choices,
looking back one or two
what was I thinking?! choices, lol
The usual mix, knowing that every decision
had reasons that made sense at the time.

One last cup of coffee on the porch
A whispered 'farewell' to the final falling leaves
Sweaters unpacked, days growing shorter
Another year reviewed with 'notes to self' made for 2011
2011... It'll be a good year
Fall in the Northeast
for me.....
Image and Text by FDFerris 10 ~ 2010
PLEASE VISIT (click here) my benefit auction for ANDREW THORNTON

AUCTION for Andrew Thornton (now closed) THANK YOU ALL!

2010-10-16T14:32:00.032-05:00

THE BLOG-CTION is now CLOSED. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who entered bids!

Each and every one of you were a step in the journey to help Andrew. No small thing.
Kindness is never a small thing.
And along the way each of you confirmed what the world needs to see....
**many kind, caring, giving people who don't just 'talk the talk' but who "DO" **

From the bottom (and top and middle lol) of my heart ~ Thank you....

The current high bid for the beads closed at $60.00!!
And additional funds are being offered for donation. Wonderful!

A fellow artist, someone I've not known long but I think of as a friend, is dealing with a health crisis. Difficult enough in and of itself. But as is true of so many artists, he faces the additional concern and worry of the cost of needed treatment and care.

With that in mind I'm offering six of my lampwork beads here via what I'm going to call (here I go creating new words again roflmao) a blogction (blog auction)! Every penny of this sale will benefit Andrew Thornton. The blog auction will run from the moment it posts today 10/16 until - noon on 10/23. US shipping will be included free.

There is no starting bid. I leave that to all of you. Tell me via email what you'd like to bid/offer and the highest will win - all monies to go to Andrew. Periodically I'll post the current higest bid. Bid via email & as often as you like and on 10/23 the highest bid/offer received will win all six beads. Remember, FREE shipping in the United States.

*** click HERE to place any/all bids ***

I hope you'll bid with your heart, and tho the wisdom with auctions (normally, lol) is not to share a link with potential competing bidders I hope you'll do just the opposite and send a link far and wide to everyone you can! (thank you!)

Images of beads are below!
*Beads are not for use by children of any age

I made these six beads with messages, thoughts, hopes & wishes for Andrew in mind......

The bee for beeeelieving all will be well!

The fish for swimming with the flow of life....

The heart for the fondness so many of us have for him & the center swirl in the heart to signify 'strength from within'

The fall leaf with white edge wrap for the time of year...

The tab bead ~ of orange for strength & endurance ~ beige for patience and calm....

The yellow filligrana bead for sunny, happy, days ahead....

Two images below please see both :-) And click on second image to see all beads in that image as some of my sidebar prevents full view.

*Better images to follow (sizes to follow also for those who wish to know) Forgive my impatience in not waiting to post this until the pics were perfect and details all gathered. I wanted to get this started today before the weekend slipped away so more people would have a chance to view!

Note: These beads are not for use/wear by children of any age....The fish and bee are not recommended for wearable use - fin and wings are fragile - but the beeee and fish would be grand for decorative use!

Two Words

2010-10-12T14:20:00.003-05:00

Experience
Expense

It struck me how similar these two words are in sound, in letter content and configuration.
Look at them and notice how many letters are the same. Consider for a minute how few words (overall) contain the letter X. They have a similar sound to the ear. Side by side they are surprisingly similar.

Different definitions? Yes of course.
But then again it occurs to me how, in living life, they eloquently intertwine.

In the dynamic flow of living life of gaining experience (classes, events, travel, hobbies, moving, purchasing a home) the associated cost immediately comes to mind.

But think for a moment with me about the emotional cost/investment of life experiences. We're far less inclined to consider the "expense" of experiences in terms of emotion. Experiences (especially deeply personal ones) that stretch us as individuals 'cost' us in bravery, dedication, fear. Intense experiences may compensate us ultimately in satisfaction, in achievement, in wisdom. But they also cost in humilty, patience, awareness and at times fear.

Experience
Expense

Everything we choose in life (or life chooses for us) comes with expense and leaves us with experience

A bit of madness?

2010-09-18T12:13:00.001-05:00

There it is again. Oddly familiar of late. This feeling of something tugging, nibbling, tap-tap-taping on my heart & mind & soul. Desiring attention, yet not quite ready to be seen, not quite prepared to reveal. It's in the background. It moves along, parallel, just out of notice of my view. It's the faint but undeniable watercolor background of the daytime and the wafting interlude drifting into sleep. It's the feeling of a ghost in the room, not threatening, not worrisome yet distinctly there....

It sounds a bit like madness I suppose. Yet it's the twisting turning overture that heralds changed direction, new path unfolding, separate or sometimes added layers that are quietly evolving for me. I wonder if it's like that for everyone? Perhaps it is. Perhaps they hesitate ( being more clever than I) to admit it. Perhaps some never feel the nudge-nudge-nudge of it? (which would return me to my thought that this is sounding like a bit of madness...)?

But there it is. A sense of change of direction.
Fluttering in my mind like a gently billowing curtain draped across a window in Tuscany.
Like waves smoothing the sand so I can write something new, capture a thought, dance to a variant of my dreams.

We'll see
Yes, we'll see.......

Other Blogs

2010-09-12T12:57:00.000-05:00

Checking other peoples blogs is something I look forward to when I have time......
It's akin to checking the snail-mail in the surprise factor. Maybe there will be something fun. Maybe not. But there's a curiosity to be satisfied., the potential of adventure!
With blogs even more-so. There may be so many things awaiting... Drama! Art! Neat food! Endless variation really. Neat.

I can read what I want. Skip around. Read all. Part. Simply scan the newest pictures.
Oh the bliss, the freedom of blog surfing!
I can comment - or not.
I can think deeply about the content - or not.
It is one of the few activities that can be enjoyed with no demands what-so-ever. Neato.

In a way it reminds me of when I was a kid . In the fall/winter during evening drives home I loved to look into the windows of houses. Not in a sicko kind of way, lol but in a curious what kind of pictures or furniture do they have kind of way? What color are their walls painted. I was actually disapointed when people appeared. I wanted to pick and choose what I peeked in at. Weird, I know. But you're used to that by now from me (weird I mean).

So to you who blog every day and provide me with wonderful moments of escape, humor, cooking tips, pieces of art, stories, insights, and the chance to peek into the windows of your life, thank you!

**Note to self: be a better blogger and provide (some) of the same for those who visit me, lol**

Farewell August...

2010-09-01T12:01:00.001-05:00

Farewell August

Days of cloudless skies
Cicadas songs
Brilliant star filled nites

Late evening air so rich and dense

it's nearly liquid

Farewell August

Days of baking sun

Tomato ripening

Watering can filling (and emptying)
In continual cycles

Farewell August

Days of peak summer green
And yellow corn

Fields of berries red and blue

(A temptation to make jam)

Farewell August
Days of summer porch
Every window open nites
Rounds of deep resounding thunder
And watermelon for two....

I have...

2010-07-29T13:39:00.013-05:00

I have and hold close

so many ideas, directions, possibilities

each longing to be explored

investigated

& found to be interesting

(or not)

Some flow, some jump, some

even now only appear in the

corner of my eye

vanishing when I look

directly

towards

them

(they are evolving still...)

"tick-tock"

the unstoppable clock

challenges me to choose

what an absurd

challenge.....

How would I winnow

my list of possibilities

which could easily fill

another full lifetime

into any sort of priority

what-so-ever?

Image and text copyright FDFerris 2010

The Secret Garden

2010-07-24T10:51:00.004-05:00

Many years past , when we were younger and far more difficult to tire, lol we created a secret garden.

Designed with three six foot walls of concrete block ending in double wooden gates with spikes to mimic old iron gates we'd admired in London. The gates, once painted high gloss black gave a good faux impression of iron. The garden creation was a massive effort, laying the block, building the gates, brining in the soil and stone. We worked on the project week after week after week. When it was complete it was a fortress of tranquility & it was barren, as any newly completed project is wont to be.

The concrete blocks (hundreds of them) were bright, as were the mortar joints. Even the small pebble gravel glinted in the sunlight. The only rest for the eye was the darkness of the earth where we'd arranged for future plants and informal gardens.

But even then I knew it was a place I'd love.

The curious thing was that I'd thought the hardest part was done.

But, as it turned out the greatest challenge, and reward, wass to be found in the small details.

And amid the time it would take to arrive at the dreamt of destination.

The secret courtyard garden North wall as it looks today..

First came the decisions we made of what to plant.

Next came the decsion of those plants as to what would live there, lol

We and the plantings disagreed often.

But plant by plant, step by step, year by year the dream evolved.

Over three decades the walls have softened, the colors gently aged.

The clemantis, ivy, euonymus have become intertwined. Good friends with each other.

Tiger lillies and barberry bushes cluster happily under the crabbapple tree

that buzzes with bees and brilliant pink blooms every Spring.

This place, this tiny garden, has given more hours of pleasure and peace than anyone has a right to have dreampt. So much from such a tiny bit of ground, from such a small inauspicious beginning.

And in the many years I've walked thru it, over the years I've gazed at it thru all four seasons

I'm only now understanding it's a study, a lesson in the flow of life....

All beginnings are difficult. Much work, little rest. Stark at birth.

Some things, ideas, dreams, journeys, die. Others thrive, succeed, flourish.

And often you are never able to understand why....

Most important things take time. Patience. A definate will-not-be-rushed-ness.

Some combinations protect each other. Some combinations compete.

Some have no influence or impact whatsoever at all upon each other.

They simply 'are', day by day, coincidentally sharing space and time.

Some things are dramatically beautiful ~ but for only a season.

Some are beautiful in much quiter ways but for the entire length of the season, even into death.

Life layers.

Flowers = bees

Vines = birds

Ivy = rabbits

Berries = passing visitors only there for as long as the berries last and never return.

There are conflict and scuffles. Births and passings.

There is cohabitation, song, buzzing, rustling, cricket chirping, firefly sparkling.

There is magic.

There is contentment.

In spite of, and alongside the unchosen sadness, passings, competiton, quarreling the magic and contentment remain. Unbowed. Challenged but not diminished, not overcome.

Who knew, when we layed those blocks in the blistering sun decades ago, tired but driven by a dream

that this little patch of ground

would teach us so much about

life....

HOLD ON? LET GO?

2010-07-20T22:45:00.000-05:00

I know how he feels.....

You?

(or is it maybe just me who wonders.....)

2010-07-13T05:39:00.001-05:00

MERMAIDS ON THE STUDIO WEBSITE FRIDAY!

SUMMER SHARED

2010-06-30T13:51:00.001-05:00

I think one of my favorite parts of summer is

the unexpected visitors that share the days with me...

Resting a bit - but still watching the nest!

Sometimes you get lucky TWICE Happy Dads Day Papa!

2010-06-20T06:46:00.001-05:00

I can't say for certain but I'd be inclined to believe most are lucky to be close to one parent, to be adult friends with their mother or their father. My life was gifted twice because I was and am incredibly close to my father also. Daddy (aka knight in shining armor) Dad, pa, pappa.

It's said that he was every bit as happy about his 'first' being a girl as a boy. Never restricting me to the confines of 'girl activities' Dad opened every door the male world offered for me. He taught me to fish (catch and release) he let me help paint the house (with a q-tip LOL as I wasn't much older than in this picture at the time).

We happily shared time together from the beginning. So much more am I for the fact he taught me of fish and motors, how to read animal prints in the mud (and explained why ice cream is cold :-) pictured above). No question was turned away, no opportunity I was interested in learning about withheld. Yet simultaneously I remained his princess.....

One of my most consistent early memories of my Dad, being a scientific glassblower, was the sound of his carlisle torch, the magic of his hands working glass. Fascinating. Amazing. He always had a studio at every house. It remains unchanged. Dad continues to work glass as does my fascination with the magic he creates with flame, glass and skill. He's worked with chemists, engineers, scientists and medical researchers designing and creating apparatus that have helped make changes in the world. Tho he'd never say so, his work has been instrumental in significant projects and research that have made a difference. He should be proud - I certainly am proud of him.

When I found the love of my life and married he created the wedding cake top you see for me as a surprise. The tall gates actually open on glass hinges. Once again the significance, the icon of open(ing) doors/gates/pathways. :-)

Tho I find (much to my surprise) there are no pictures of us working glass together, the next door he opened for me gave me a career I love, a place in the tradition of being an apprenticed lampworker that I am so proud to carry. Having apprenticed with my father to learn the art of working glass from him has been and is an amazing journey. Beginning at a time when women working glass were far and few between, when a career in glass as a woman was nearly unheard of he opened the door for me. I won't live long enough to learn all he knows of glass. During the many years we've shared behind the torches, from learning latticino to lathes, he also taught me of life. While we melt(ed) glass together year after year we've talked of life, of choices, of zen, of business, of art. We've pondered how one quantifies 'success', dealing with crisis, relationships, challenges, sorrow and joy. We've talked about the future of lampworking and glass, the dynamics of 'degreed' glass workers vs apprenticeships as we've melted... He teaching, I learning. So much he's taught me in so many ways, about glass and about life.

He's my father, my teacher, my mentor, my friend. I hope to always make you proud Dad as a fellow lampworker carrying on the tradition and skills you have passed to me. And as your daughter.

I Love you Pa ~ I hope you know how much... Happy Fathers Day from 'chickie'

National Veggie Month (uh ok lol)

2010-06-13T15:17:00.002-05:00

Free Photo courtesy of geekphilosopher.com

Uh, yeah, national veggie month

Wait for it...

Wait...

Here it comes...

Can you hear me? HaHaHaHaaaaaaaaaa

If you know me - at all - you know how I despise veggies

(I think they may even dislike me, lol)

It began in childhood. Me vs veggies

Ick, yuk, gagggggg lol

My parents, my brother, my husband

love love lovvvveeee veggies.

But me?

Oh my, nay nay never as they say, lol

Give me a twinkie, a dingdong, a donut

a cupcake (or a whole cake!) any day, roflmao

So to those of you who love veggies

Happy Veg Month!

I however am going to celebrate

by counting my hoard

of twinkies :-)

Flip Flop Danger??!!

2010-06-06T13:41:00.021-05:00

REALLY?!

Danger????

Apparently so, according to

this article...

No disrespect intended towards the writer,

the source or the intent of the article.

But fer cryin' out loud

FLIP FLOP DANGERS?

(there's actually even a link to flip flops / sandals

that earn the APMA Seal of Acceptance).

Again, no disrespect but

Puuullleeeaasseee!

Flip flops are a simple, long standing ICON of summer!

Of fun and frolic

Of beach, yard & summer stroll.

Limp, bendy (yes a made up word, lol) pieces

of gay and happily colored foam-plastic!

I ask you

of all the things to worry about, of all the ills of humanity

of all the things that could justify (and improve) from our attention

should fun, funky, (still cheap) FF's

be classified as a topic of worry and fear?

Uh, well, how can I put this....

NO!

With a bit of common sense, and a dash of 'may stub your toe but you'll live'

sprinkled with 'let's just have a little sqishy fun' and not over-think this

I believe this icon of summer frolic

(remember frolic? lol)

may yet live on

happily amusing

(many)

of us for years to come.....

It's a great life if you don't weaken

(lol)

Start by not buying into the purported danger

Flip

Flops!

She's mine

2010-05-24T11:09:00.003-05:00

I know
I know...

I don't need

more large furniture

Don't

But will you just look at her?

Do you see what I see? lol

She's the kind of chair that just wraps itself around you...

She's the kind of chair that takes away the 'all day in the studio on my feet' aches

The kind of chair that says 'stay awhile, think, sketch, no you're not wasting time'

(what? your furniture and various other objects don't speak to you? oh my.... what you're missing! :-)

She's the kind of chair that has stories to tell

She's seen a lot of life, a number of homes most likely

and now she's mine...

(see my coffee-cup = turf marker?!!)

But here's the question - any all help appreciated!!

She's flocked (material) with original horse hair stuffing

I've done scads of inter-netting for the best ways to clean her

but I'd LOVE to hear from any of you with hands on (literally, lol)

experience with referbing an oldie but snugglie such as this

lest I do her harm and make both chair and I sad :-)

Thanks for any suggestions you can wing my way!

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

2010-05-18T05:51:00.004-05:00

On a hill & long forgotten

a good life lesson found....

ADAPT and be CREATIVE

(use whatever is around)!!!

~ ~

Life isn't easy, not for sissies to be certain.

The day to day routine

can be just as challenging

as the crisis moments.

This little building with it's 'twig lock'

standing on it's tall and windy hill reminded me

ADAPT

BE CREATIVE

USE what you have

Don't just think outside the box

cut a hole in it.....

& climb thru

You won't always find

the answer/path/solution you want

but you will (almost) always

find

solution.....

fdferris 2010

Random Inspiration Pictures

2010-05-10T21:37:00.002-05:00

All winter long (or is that all long winter, lol) I've been taking pictures that inspire, evoke emotions, capture memories ~ random inspirations.

I though that you'd enjoy seeing a sprinkling of these images, so I'll be sharing them here thru the Spring and Summer. I'd (of course!) love to know if/how any of the images whisper to you, and if so it'd be wonderful if you'd share what they say to you in the comments. Love to know what the image stirs in your mind/heart/creative soul..... Or what memory it lifts to mind?

**This picture is of a vintage beaded handbag that was my grandmom's, then my mum's. Mum passed it on to me ~ and now I'm sharing it with you :-) The detail is amazing. Even more surprising is the fact it survives in nearly perfect condition. I love the colors and the combination of floral design within geometric pattern(s). Such opposing design elements, merged beautifully in this piece.

I think the combination of lines and florals for bead embellishment could be really interesting.... What do you think? :-)

Sometimes You Get Lucky

2010-05-08T16:31:00.001-05:00

Some of you may have already seen this

mothers day post to my mum (last year)

Still... I wanted to share it with her
(and you)

again :-)

Love you Mum....

In fact, sometimes life allows you to be astoundingly lucky.

My longest running, best bit of luck began with having the remarkable woman you see here as my mother, my 'mom' or as I call her now, Mum....

Looking at the scrawny (nearly) hairless, too thin to even fill out a pair of plastic diaper pants baby I was, it's hard to know what she saw in me. LOL a beauty I wasn't that's for certain. Allergic to milk as it turned out, for months I never slept. I seldom smiled. Instead each day I cried, I screamed. All day. All night. Still, she loved me.Once it was determined I was allergic to milk and put on soy, I stopped screaming. Then I didn't gain weight (worrying her out of her mind). Smaller than the gladiolas, still she loved me...She loved me thru my confounding hatred of dresses. Confounding because I had an endless fascination and passion for accessories! Jewelry of ANY kind, beads, purses, sox, bows, headbands. (Even then I was a jeans with jewelry kind of girl). She loved me thru years of my constant "can I take the dress off yet mommy?!" She also loved me thru a lot of realllyyy bad home perms. She never lost patience with my love of 'prizes' (photo above is a christmas gift). A trait that persists I have to confess, lol She still admitted I was her daughter even when I made some 'unique choices' (and if admitting I belonged to her in THIS outfit isn't love, I don't know what is, lol) All thru my life I have and continue to make 'unique' choices. She continues to love me. And thru all the years she taught me by not just word, but by example. She didn't just talk the talk - she walked the walk. She taught me to be kind. To be honest. To be brave. To BELIEVE in myself. To know that I could do anything. She taught me the to find great joy in small everyday things. She taught me you must renew yourself to continue to give. She shared with me her love of poetry - so much a part of who I am now. She shared with me her love of the sea - one of my great loves. She was tough when I needed it, stern when I deserved it, proud of me when I earned it. And always, she loved me. All thru my life she's been and remains my best girlfriend, my confidant, my rock. She's always there for me. We laugh and cry together, adventure together, ponder life together. She's still teaching me, encouraging me, hard on me when I need it. Proud of me when I deserve. And the best part of all? She loves me still.

And I hope she knows how much I love her.........
I hope she knows how much she's taught me, guided me, given me strength.

Happy Mothers Day Mum ~ I love you......

TIED WITH A BOW

2010-04-05T18:10:00.001-05:00

i like things

tied with bows

knots are stand-off-ish

tape is tear-the-paper-ish

bows are loops of intrigue

'rabbit ears' on surprises

bows tease

but they don't resist

if you approach them

in the right way

they allow you

entry

if you choose to ignore the way a bow works

the way it's best untied

if you ignore

that

one

small

truth

the bow will make you

work a bit harder

refuse to open at all

and simply knot itself

in resistance

but isn't that true of everything?

and of everyone?....

She Decided

2010-03-02T10:55:00.003-05:00

Sometimes she wished she were a tree

So she could see into the distance

and hear the songs of the birds

note by note

all around her

If she were a tree

high in the sky

the perils of the ground

couldn't easily

reach her

Some days she longed to be

part of the leaves and moss

that covered the ground

below her

low lying and endless in number

so no one would even notice her

But each morning

she awoke to find she was

neither a tree

nor leaf or moss

She was not tall and safe

She was not short and invisible

She

Was

(in fact)

Yellow

Obvious

Delicate

Embattled

She decided her best

(and only)

choice

was

to be brave

to be cheeerful

and to look fiesty

(fiesty as hell)

for as long

she

possibly

could

~~~~

FDFerris

February '10

Here's my order

2010-02-26T16:12:00.005-05:00

*If this post makes no sense, read here first :-) *

Here’s the order I chose!

Sox
I love sox!
Warm, sunggly, oddly colored, short, tall

Books
For we who love books no explanation is needed eh?

Food
Ah yes (and may I add 'yum'!)

Blankets/throws
Winter makes this a fav category

Pillows/Cushions
Who ever heard of a new blanket without a neato pillow?

House/Home
I wonder what they put in here category treasure hunt

Bathroom
Mostly scanned for the pix to get ideas for a pretty bathroom

Bed linen
Nothing changes up a bedroom  mood better than new linens

Kitchen
I am a gadget-a-holic lol. When I do cook I bake - gadgetfest!

Tableware
Silver-ware-aholic (just ask my husband)

Household
Another I wonder what's been tucked there? category

Rugs
I love the look of rugs I HATE HATE DETEST keeping rugs swept

Nightware
I often (hate to admit) sleep in studio rejects (things with holes but are oh-so-comfy)

So there you have it!    Now isn't it reallly interesting how we all had books and food as a priority, lol . Blankets and pillows ranged midline priority for all of us.... Hmmmmmmmmmmm

Sooz, lol what happened to rugs and household? Think I wouldn't notice eh? LOL
(do you hate rugs too? roflmao) come on - tell where rugs go on your list :-) pullleeezzzzeeee (hug)

Jus, I can see in your list the poet/cook/winemaker/baker you are shining thru :-) (hug)

Heather, roflmao I said EIGHT comments (trying to pull a fast on are we)? Gotta keep my running shoes on to keep up with you babe, lol (hug)

Hey, this is a lot of fun guys - thanks to u, my loyal readers!!! - and I'm so glad you shared.
Anyone else want to join in? If so you have a few weeks, so leave your list in the comments!

I'll keep checking to see when I have 8 comments (and no MINE does not count, lol). We'll give it till the end of March and then I'll draw a name from however many comments there are - how does that sound?!!?

TTYA soon!

I wonder why.....

2010-02-14T12:44:00.003-05:00

An interesting question..... curious indeed .....

I just rec'd an online catalog with these page link categories listed.

House and Home

Bathroom

Bed linnen

Blankets & Throws

Books

Pillows & Cushions

Food

Household

Kitchen

Nightwear

Rugs

Slippers & Sox

Tableware

Choosing and rambling thru the sections out of order I suddenly wondered

WHY I chose to poke about in each offering in the order I did?

Never thought of it before...

Why did I pick_____ before______?

Why did I look at _____next and ______ last?

I Don't think it makes a tiny bit of diff - but on the alternate hand,
kind of interesting to consider what order one views the pages - dontchathink?

So here's a bit of mid-winter wool-gathering
(if you'd like to play along, lol)

If you leave a comment sharing what order you'd go thru the list above then at this time next week
I'll post a comment sharing what order I went thru the list :-)

(kind of a silly little blog game to pass a bit of time in this dreary part of the winter)

And to sweeten the game, I'll make it a contest/adventure of sorts!

Leave your 'what order' comment and when I have 8 comments I'll pick one totally at random
and choose a lampwork bead from my studio (with or cord or ribbon) to send to

who (or is it whom?) ever left the randomly chosen comment!

Sound like fun?

Good!
Comment away!

Hmmmmm......

2010-02-04T10:50:00.003-05:00

Sometimes ideas, long before they become coherent in concept, simply simmer. Somewhere in the background or underground or on the ethereal plane they cogitate, marinate, and filter. They stretch, they fold. The expand and contract. Thicken and thin. They leap then they stand as still as a the moment between the beats of a heart. Ideas. Passions. Pathways. The warp and weave evolve direction long before the course can be perceived.

Still, somewhere, somehow, you sense it happening. You know something creative 'inside' your mind is pushing at the edges, scoping out the parameters, preparing to emerge in the form of a framed 'actionable' idea. It's a time, when if you were to try to assign it a physical equivalent, you'd be inclined to say it were an itch that can't be scratched. A vague ache. An unsettled stomach.

You know something vastly creatively significant ~ some alteration or addition or layered direction is coming. You know, you know it with sure certainly. Sometimes an edge of it surfaces in a passing thought, a color flashes, a word or phrase comes to mind. Alluring, intriguing, painfully tempting. You can almost touch it, feel it beneath your feet, smell it in the air. But you can't visualize it clearly.

Not-just-yet.

So you wait. You watch. You listen.
With intensity.

Something...... Something is on the wing....

When I Should Be....

2010-01-18T19:46:00.006-05:00

I've been up to my knees in receipts, graphs, packing slips and invoices. End of the year bookwork dontchaknow. Mind numbing. I am not a person who loves bookwork. I do it. I do it well. But I can not find a way to enjoy it (except for when it's complete, lol). So inbetween studio work and bookwork this time of year I build in other productive breaks, distractions, sanity savers.

I found this oversized ottoman on the side of the road for free. Poor thing he'd apparently failed to keep his original home and worse still for him he'd failed to find a new owner at a yard sale as well (see the masking tape price tag on his right leg?) His fate found him upside down as you see here on the curb. He was awaiting his demise a la garbage day. Poor ottoman. Till I came along, lol...... It isn't the first (or likely last) time I've snatched a waif from the maw of the garbage truck crew. And after all this ottoman was solid, large surfaced (for extra seating or coffee-table duty as needed). So home he came with me. I could feel his relief and happiness. Mine too. Recycling is good. Free recycling is faboo!

The only problem (aside from a bit of dirt and cobwebs) was that his material wasn't quite my style. But I'd rescued some heavy duty material a few weeks earlier as I loved the pattern. I draped a corner of the material over the sad little ottoman and voila - the two were perfect for each other! I needed only to remove ottomans legs, and with a bit of cutting, tucking and a staple gun I was on my way to a really nice new (to me) piece of furniture.....

More pictures of the process below

A few of my tools. Two of his legs removed alongside my trusty phillips head screwdriver and his price tag (of a whopping $2.00) He really deserved another chance....

And here he is, after my re-do (with a before picture right next to it for comparison). I'm happy. Stool is happy. Landfill is happy. I love it when a plan comes together lol

What do you think? :-)

Hypothetically speaking

2010-01-11T19:36:00.002-05:00

Hypothetically speaking if you have an old fridge that doesn't self defrost you really may want to consider defrosting it - you know before you (hypothetically) hear a loud crash and (hypothetically) run to the kitchen to find a slab of ice has flown out of the freezer door. And skidded across the floor. Then you could (hypothetically speaking) discover it is so cold you would have to get winter gloves to pick it up. And upon (in theory) picking it up finding it is almost as heavy as you are so you can't carry it to the door to pitch it outside (in fact you can barely get it to the sink).

As it turns out you (hypothetically speaking) could have to put it in a little snow sled you use for pulling UPS parcels. But first you would have to place the sled on a towel and then put the ice in the sled and drag the towel/sled/ice thru the house to the outside to place the (hypothetical) iceberg out-of-doors.

Yep, I'm just sayin....
hypothetically that is.

Hello 2010

2010-01-04T20:51:00.001-05:00

A new year reminds me of looking thru stained glass windows

Some aspects are clear and defined.
Geometric and reliable.

Others teasingly appear, yet cannot be seen in discernable fashion

Only vague colors and shapes reveal
a hint of what may be

Hopes, fears, dreams and goals in fuzzy conglomeration
defy specific assignment

You'll just have to wait and see - literally

Light streams thru the fixed and fuzzy framework of the year-yet-to-be-lived

Welcome 2010....
**

Merry Happy & Kindness

2009-12-25T13:01:00.001-05:00

Be it towards humans or creatures, pass on

some good will and kindness

(on christmas and every and any other day you can.....)

Have a peek at this - and merry happy holidays!

In Surprising Places One Finds....

2009-12-23T21:41:00.001-05:00

No matter where you live, I imagine you've heard tell that the NE ~~has~~ ~~been tortured~~ is enjoying astounding snow or remarkable cold. On top of my little hill amid the fields and trees we've been spared the snow. But oh my shiverin' kaboose, the cold has been what we normally only see in the depths of February (imagine the insides of your nose sticking together - I know, a horrid example, but true none the less, roflmao And it's one way to let you know how cold COLD is here) And there is no hope for you if you forgetfully lick your lips or go outside with damp hands or hair, lol

Yet still.....
Amid the struggle with the wind, and the frightful chill there are bits of beauty. Art via nature. Stunning really. The reward, if you take the time to look, is often found in the harshest and most unlikely places. Below, I give you an example of such I noticed recently. This very old single pane window in our house ~ festooned with swirls and curls, flows and rivers, ferns and blossoms of ice that whisper "beauty"....

Water, ice, bitter cold ~ basic elements combined ~ and created this...

Stunning isn't it?

Dear Santa

2009-12-17T07:54:00.002-05:00

Those who know me are aware I spend a LOT of time mowing lawns in the non-snow-seasons (and those who didn't know that fascinating fact know now, lol). With that lawn-fact in mind, here's an admittedly clever item that I hope Santa does NOT bring to to me - ever, roflmao

In fact, the threat of this under the tree could even cause me to behave all year! (ok, that's a lie as nothing could cause me to behave) lol but if something could this would be it! And may I just add that I have a new respect (and love) for my riding (but not pedal powered) lawn mower....

Some days are like that

2009-12-14T14:44:00.005-05:00

Some days just go that way

(not down the toilet but.....)

There I was, you know, just doing the

typical cleaning - the blue scrub and swish...

My mind I admit on the next 20 things

on the list needing to be done.

Absent-mindedly I began

Blue - check!

Scrub - check!

Swish - yep!

Flush & done!

But....

As I went to put the toilet brush back in the holder

I somehow managed to slide the bristles against the foldover

edge of my cute little bathroom trash can I had out for cleaning.

Do I even need to say it? Oh hell yes, next thing I know I feel

a gentle but oh so horrifying spray of piss water** from the toilet

brush all over my face. Oh please, no!

Pppppppttttttt!

Numerous face washes, alchol wipe downs, gargles and naughty words later

here I am tell you because, well, who else would I tell? lol

Not to mention that when you do something really stupid (but funny)

involving a toilet it just has to be shared, right?

I'd whine more, but right now I have to go check

webMD to see what horrid things I may catch, roflmao

(and note to self: next time don't leave the trash can near toilet brush holder)!
**Well, not really piss water, lol - it was clean water ~ but still... ick!

CUTE 'N Funny!

2009-12-09T14:53:00.000-05:00

In an email from my mum today - isn't it the cutest! (thanks mum!)

http://www.house-mouse.com/

And from my all time fav housekeeper-babe Maxine...

And save all that money on stickey notes, lol

Have a good day everybody

A Holiday Confession

2009-12-05T15:40:00.017-05:00

As a kid it was hard for me to let go of the idea of Santa. And the flying reindeer. A reality check that eventually had to be cashed. Time goes by and perceptions change.

Now here I am letting go of another holiday ~~fallacy~~ idea. I'm admitting in writing that I don't adore complex, time intensive holiday preparation. The look and outcome - yes! But the fiddley fussing, not so much. I know... (insert image of me hanging my head for a micro moment) this admission is terribly un-matha (perhaps even un-female, lol).

I can't ~~confess~~ share all my shortcuts at once (I do have some estrogen based pride, lol) But I will admit to my first get the look without the fuss trick. Hold on to your pantyhose. Sit down perhaps. Ready? I NEVER undecorate my little fake alpine tree. Yes, fake tree. Never undecorated. Just breathe. Honest it's not as horrible as it may at first seem.

On Jan 2 or so each year my little tree (which looks astoundingly similar to the one in the image) is loving, carefully draped and wrapped in a sheet of filmy plastic (the kind used as a drop cloth for painting). Lights, tinsel, ornaments all intact. Away into storage he goes. Once or twice thru the year I see him, say hello to him as I pass by for other things that live in storage. He doesn't seem to mind at all.

For my part it's wonderful not to have to find and upack all the lights, ornaments every year. I enjoy not having to place the lights on the tree from scratch each year. I do switch off an ornament or two as I like which is fun and veryyyy quick. To me it looks just as pretty when it's done (outcome vs process remember, lol).

The bonus is that the time saved since I've approached the tree in this oh-so-un-martha-way is that I now have time to string lights on trees outside if I like. Or bake cookies (bad for my butt but wonderful for the holiday mood! :-)

Embracing my short cut to holiday outcome self (like admitting there was no Santa) changed the hoilday a bit of course. But for the better. For me there's more enjoyment not less. All I had to do was get past the previous expectation(s)!

I wonder if I'm the only one with holiday short cut ~~confessions~~ I mean tips? lol

You Have To Love Maxine

2009-12-03T17:38:00.002-05:00

LOL ain't it the truth!
Personally, I anxiously await the days being back on the path of growing longer!

"WITHIN"

2009-11-13T10:05:00.009-05:00

WITHIN A BOOK ~ WITHIN A SKY ~
WITHIN A SONG ~ OR PIECE OF PIE....

AMID A WOODS ~ AMID A WAVE ~
AMID A HUG ~ OR LETTER SAVED

BENEATH A LOOK ~ BENEATH A SIGH ~
BENEATH A HOPE ~ THAT NEVER DIES

SOMEWHERE WITHIN ~ SOMEWHERE WITHOUT ~
SOME BIT OF STRENGTH ~ IS 'HIDING OUT'

SEEK IT FIND IT ~ WHERE YOU MAY ~
RENEW 'WITHIN' ~ STRENGTH USED EACH DAY...

Verse and Images by FDFerris Copyright 2009

WEAKNESSES

2009-10-15T15:01:00.007-05:00

I know, intellectually at least, that there should come a time when adults cease collecting 'stuffies'. Intellectually. Yes. I know. But what's one to do when they look at you with their pleading little eyes (or eye)? And their limp little bodies?

Well in my case what I do is bring them home. And (can I believe I am admitting this) once home I name them. Each-and-every-one....

My latest fall from non-stuffie-buying-grace has taken the form of 'UGLY DOLLS'. These bizarre little creatures just NEED protection, asylum, affection, adoption. After all they strike me as an acquired taste, lol even for the stuffie-afflicted.

Above (with piglet) are seen merga-tool and poe (don't ask, I'm really not going to confess to the stories of the names, lol. After all I have to try to keep some shred of appearing vaguely normal :-)

So if any of you have any weakness for stuffies also, or other odd collecting habits I'd love it if you left a comment - insanity (or soft-hearted-ness) loves company don't-cha-know, roflmao

And just in case you need to know more about ugly dolls (I know, probably not, but I'm just sayin...) click on the title of this post and it'll take you to their website http://www.uglydolls.com/sitemap

Ok, I'm leaving now .... :-)

Inside The Studio

2009-09-12T12:51:00.018-05:00

It's been ages since I've chatted about my studio glass work here - oddly - because it fills the majority of my days, nites and dreams LOL

My creative process tends to wander, to alter, in cycles. Not obvious cycles mind you such as seasons and holidays. No, my purely creative process is, as with most creative souls, a bit random, unexpected and inexplicable (if not downright bizarre) :-)

Recently I've been drawn again to create one of my oldest favorites - lizards

Lizards (modeled on actual or purely artistic) offer endless variation. Combinations of color, movement, expression, situation all factor into these cheerful little fellows and their platform bead base or collectible shelf/desk base surroundings (as you see in the images above and below).

Is it just me or do they make you smile too? Seems to me they're something about them that is cheerful, hopeful, and curiously comforting. But then again maybe I'm just odd, lol

This handsome (well he IS - just ask him!) fellow is of moretti glass and has already found a home, but there are others. If you'd like to know when I place them on the studio website contact me at glasschick at yahoo.com and I'll send you an email.

With lizards whispering to me, emerging from the flames you know (if you know me, lol) that frogs will not be far behind!

Tomatoes & Pumpkins - who knew?

2009-08-24T12:28:00.004-05:00

That the simple act of growing edibles could be so warm, fuzzy and addictive?!

You'd be right if you though that one thread of my fascination came from my childhood. I was forutnate to have grandparents who farmed so it was always a part of my childhood. In my teens and 20's I was part of the foxfire generation. (if you don't know, the foxfire book(s) of the 70's were the good earth reference of a generation). In my early married years my husband and I cut and burned wood, did our own renovations, built two buildings amid full work schedules.

But life (and time) seldom move in straight lines and before long I found no time (or ceased to make time) for such pursuits until 30 some years had trickled by..... Now I find myself again drawn by the simple magic of such things. The diffrence now is that I posess the discipline to act vs dream ( a decided plus to mid life for me at least)!

This year my tomatoes went in as they have for the last several years. Six 'baby girl' tomaote plants - enough for my husband and I with extras for family and friends. Pumpkins and watermelons were the new adventure this year. Tho the rain caused them to fall prey to damping off fungus and did them in before fruiting they gave me a smile week after week. Watching them progress thru each step till just a few days ago fascinated me. Too bad that too much rain can be a bad thing. Still now I know they grow well I'll have another attempt next year!

The 'girls' (early girl tomatoes) are long and leggy from all the rain and limited sun, but the tomatoes I gather in a bowl (or in my shirt if loose enough to hold them - just as grandma used to) really do engender such an a amazing amount of contentment and accomplishment. Growing. Basically (weather and pests aside) so simple, so direct. Plant. Watch. Weed. Grow. Gather.

Food from inception to ingestion, lol.

Warm fuzzy fun.

Older than time but still inspiring.

Who'd have thought.....!

IF NOTHING YOU DO MATTERS THEN ALL THAT MATTERS IS...

2009-08-21T12:33:00.009-05:00

WHAT YOU DO......

Yesterday, writing in response to the call Ronni Bennett put forward regarding HCR (health care reform) was good. Satisfying. Grounding. Empowering. I believe we made a difference.

Those feelings led me to recall a post I'd written almost exactly a year ago, oddly enough. The post can be found here:

http://mymusemutters.blogspot.com/2008/09/what-matters.html

Being a small part of many speaking out yesterday for the hope of a greater good without any surety of what the outcome will be caused me to realize what we each do matters. It matters, hopefully of course towards the outcome. It certainly matters to the overall understanding that sharing of ideas brings.

But most importantly perhaps, for me, was connecting the thought of a year past from that September 08 post to the action of posting yesterday. While a specific outcome is what I hope for, it was the 'taking what action I could, within my control' (thanks to the TIME GOES BY rally call) that mattered. In and of itself. The journey (my post) as well as the destination (hoped for outcome) both being equally relevant, with purpose found in each.

Perhaps it is true that we (I!) grow smarter with age :-)

Here's to each of us seeking, finding and acting on what we can, where we can, when we can. No matter what difference it makes, the effort itself makes a difference.
~
PS Thanks to NancyB and Lilalia for taking the time to share your comments on my post yesterday. Excellent points made by both within the comments and I'm looking forward to reading any posts/thoughts you wrote yesterday re: HCR!

HEALTH CARE REFORM REALITY

2009-08-20T12:49:00.010-05:00

Not since 9/11 have I written in relation to current events and concerns.

My post today is in support of a rally call to each of us by Ronni Bennett** who blogs at http://ronnibennett.typepad.com/ Her call was for straight forward, rational sharing of opinions regarding health care reform. I'm writing today because, make no mistake, this reform (or lack of) will impact everyone.

I'm in support of a careful, well crafted, competitive reform of health care insurance offerings. I have personally known individuals and families who have struggled with cobra insurance. I have firsthand seen the cost and desperation caused by insurance offerings limited due to PE (pre-existing conditions). I have watched the heartbreak of 'investigational treatment' approval denied - with absolutely no right to a review - by health insurers. Few people are as aware as they should or need to be of the limitations that can be contained within their paid non-government-health care policy. If more of us were aware of the limitations and control that can be contained in numerous health plans perhaps there would be less fear of a government or co-op option.

Years ago I had a client who lived in Canada. She lost her job, but often mentioned to me what wonderful peace of mind having government health gave this difficult time in her life. More than once she mentioned that yes, she had to wait at times to be seen but at least she knew she could be seen - not something she could have afforded had she needed to 'pay as she went' for helath care. Much as medicare provides for our retired population - and what a comfort that is to many in the US. Problems tho it may have, at 65 you have a safety net for your health care, a foundation if you like because you can add layers of additional coverage if your finances allow.

I am self employed. Younger than my husband by a number of years, I wonder (actually I worry) how within the current system I'll be able to afford health care premiums till I qualify for Medicare once he retires. Much like car insurance, I'd welcome the chance to have numerous options to choose from at the least. How can competition be bad FOR US as consumers?! I'd sleep better at night (as would many currently unemployed or uninsured) if there were some basic across the boards health care plan. I'd expect to pay a good bit for top shelf coverage if I could afford it and it seems that option is not going to disappear. What I hope for is a plan that allows we mere fiscal mortals who have a limit on our budgets to obtain health care without punishing costs. Wthout dynamic increase in premiums due to our age, our health problems, income thresholds.

I'm aware that no solution or plan is without it's costs, downsides or difficulties. But it's far harder to imagine how the potential of losing everything one has by having no health care insurance (or avoiding treatment due to the same) is preferable?

So I'm hoping that all of us regardless of age, employment situation, or personal preference for health care will continue to calmly and earnestly encourage in every way we can this effort for affordable and varied health care options.

**I read her blog daily finding insight, well qualified and documented insights and humor. If you're my age (later middle aged) you'll likely gain insight and helpful information related to the years ahead. If you're older you'll likely find information that applies to here and now. If you're younger (as I know many of my readers are) don't skip viewing her blog. You'll be surprised what you may learn from the writings Ronnie shares as well as the insights from contributing bloggers. Also of great insight are the comments often posted by readers!

Naughty Summer

2009-08-02T13:12:00.004-05:00

Summer, we have to have a talk....
I know you probably have issues, things on your mind. But honestly I just don't know what your problem is this year! No sun, no warmth. Rain, rain and more rain! My sunflowers refuse to grow or bloom (they say they are after all SUN-flowers). My tomatoes are despondent. And green. Big and green. That's no way for tomatoes to look at the end of July going into August. And while we're speaking of July, do you know how distressing it is to be wearing a jacket in July? Jackets in July is catchy sounding but very distressing. Cool, cold rain day after day is fine if you're not a tree. But I'm not.

It's August and time is running out. So, Summer, if you could see your way clear to send a little sun and warm my way I'd be ever-so-pleased. Just a few days here and there. yes, that would be lovely....

Small Bird

2009-07-23T08:09:00.004-05:00

I am a small bird
In a tall tree
Amid ever-growing winds
Not fearing the chance of a fall
Because I know I can fly

FDF 7/2009

CMOG More Images

2009-07-17T09:56:00.006-05:00

Trying to cull thru the images I captured at CMOG for my 'favorites' to share is akin to asking me to choose a few favorite desserts, lol. So I've decided to share them all a few at a time until I can create a photobook online with a link...

This piece fascinated me with its combination of simplicity and detail!

These creatures of the sea are only three examples of the sea life and plant life created in glass (in the 1800's if I remember the detail information correctly). My images do not in any way show the true, subtle, remarkable coloration the glass artist(s) achieved.

More to come!

Two more CMOG/GAS Pics!

2009-07-06T15:01:00.005-05:00

As it turned out the vendors area (which was our main focus) wouldn't open for two hours from the time we arrived. So what would two lampworkers with time to spend do in Corning? Not a hard choice, lol - we headed for the museum! I've visited CMOG numerous times, many times. It always was, and remains, an absolute amazement on so many levels it is difficult to frame the experience in words.

So for now, just the start of the images I have to share with you. These are of one of two Chihuly installations at CMOG.

CORNING Road Trip! Glass Art Society Conference

2009-07-01T13:56:00.005-05:00

With the studio (and life) speeding along at the typical insane pace summer brings I've not had a chance to share the trip Dad and I took Corning with you! The GLASS ART SOCIETY held their conference in Corning this year and I can't think of a better combination than CMOG, GAS, the Vendors there for GAS and of course Corning itself. It was great, realllly great and of course the trip produced its share of stories, lol.

Today is another hectic day with multiple students in and out of the studio - so I have to run now, but at least there's a teaser picture!

More coming - lots of pictures to share...