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Where To Get Inspiration Ideas and Prompts
Sometimes we creatives get "writer's block" or artist's block. What do you do? Here are a few methods to inspire and prompt creativity.
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Therapeutic Art for Senior Citizens Q and A
I am still getting questions from people wanting to know more about starting beneficial art classes for the elderly in their community. Here are some of the questions and answers I gave.
- 18
Switching to a Vegan Lifestyle
This is my journey into a vegan lifestyle and what I've learned so far. Giving up meats was not as hard as I thought it might be. Giving up milk and eggs a little harder but I found lots of resources that helped.
- 12
Drawing Faces in Charcoal
Charcoal is a difficult and messy medium to work with but can be handled well with a few small tricks and rules. I have done hundreds of these charcoal drawings and here are a few.
- 28
Where Has The Kindness Gone
A look back at the slow decline of basic kindness in society as it relates to the current generation. How have Millennialls changed things? What does the future hold?
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The Art of Collage: Making Art From Trash
From throw-away magazines and catalogues to award-winning art pieces, I show how I create art out of collaged trash. These are fun and intriguing as well as eye-catching. Come with me to explore the world of collaged art.
- 14
Commonly Asked Questions About Art Therapy for Seniors
I created a program of painting in watercolor for the elderly in my area and I've received many questions about it. I hope to answer some of the questions here.
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Teaching Watercolor Classes To The Elderly
I have written several times about my experiences with teaching senior citizens’ watercolor classes but I have gotten so many follow-up questions that I decided to answer some of them here in more detail.
- 27
My Husband Makes Me Laugh
What does a woman want in a husband? More than looks and finances, she wants to be secure in his love and devotion and she wants to laugh. That's what I think and what I tell about my husband and our relationship.
- 30
The Harmful Power of Negativity
I’ve been feeling it for the past couple years and maybe you have too. It is an overwhelming oppressive negative global attitude. Everything seems darker and I needed to make some changes for better
- 22
A Touch Of Kindness Gives Life Meaning
The kindness of one elderly man changed my life and made me feel worthy. The stories of his wife reminded me that people face tragedy and loss silently. I learned about kindness changed me forever.
- 12
A Break From The Battleground, Walking The Dog
Diagnosed and still fighting cancer, I am dealing with the effects and emotions of my husband's illness. We all need a break and this is a story of my break to get air and think.
- 18
How to Inspire Senior Citizens to Be Active
My work with senior citizens has given me a few insights into some special needs. While working with them, I encountered a variety of problems they face daily.
- 16
My Photographic Fairy Art
I have always loved fairy tales. There is something about the magical lore of fairies, elves, gnomes, and goblins that expands the imagination. I created these little photo fairy images here.
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Encouraging Reading in Children
How do you encourage children to read? Especially these days when movies, TV and electronic games vie for all your children’s attention? Do you have ideas? Here is what I did.
- 2
The Educational Experience of Paper House Construction
As a homeschool parent and a creative with a house full of moody creative children, I created these little projects to keep my children engaged. It works for others as well so here is my solution.
- 20
Artistic Nature and Harsh Criticism
In my experience, college was exciting and enlightening but finishing my thesis was full of missteps and brutal criticism. As an art, student it was more than brutal; it was crushing. How to recover?
- 52
Homelessness Changed My Life Forever
The next time you see a homeless person on the side of the road, consider what the causes are that put him there. My personal experience with homelessness changed the way I see the problem.
- 14
Numismatics or Coin Collecting for Children, Plus Make-Your-Own-Coin Craft
Coin collecting can be fun and rewarding but also a beautiful study in relief sculpture and design. Here is a tooling foil craft perfect for teaching children about coins and design.
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Silhouettes or Shadow Portraits for Children
I don’t think the established public school system understands the vital importance of encouraging creativity exercises yet. A few simple art projects may go a long way to keeping kids interested.
- 22
Drawing Feet for an Exercise
After spending 100 days drawing hands and really loving the challenge, I decided to spend the next 100 days drawing feet. What I learned from the exercise is written here.
- 10
Artists With Tragic Deaths: Alphonse Mucha
This is the story of Alphonse Mucha, the artist who was arrested by the Gestapo and succumbed to the physical distress after being interrogated. It was a tragedy.
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The Great Gardner Art Heist
In the early hours of March 1990, two men stole 13 pieces of art and got clean away. The art was never seen again and is still being sought, making this the most famous art heist in American history
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Drawing the Human Face
Drawing is a fun thing to do. Most people love to doodle even if they aren’t “artists” or imagine they have any drawing skills. It helps us to think, solve problems, imagine.
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Tricks for Photographing Women
When photographing yourself or your family, have you noticed that some women look fabulous all the time and others (possibly yourself) just take terrible pictures? Here is why.
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Artists Who Died Before 40: Caravaggio
This is the story of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. Like some of the more famous artists (or maybe infamous) like Raphael and Madonna, he was simply known as Caravaggio.
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Why Images Are Important
It is in us somehow to try to recreate what we see using lines and color. And so we draw. Here are a few things to think about when drawing faces.
- 14
Drawing Hands for an Exercise
I wanted to get better at drawing hands so I challenged myself to draw one hand a day for 100 days and here is the result of my empowering drawings. You can do it too.
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Art Therapy for Senior Citizens: What I Learned
I spent 14 years teaching watercolor art therapy classes to senior citizens. Here are about 7 of the things I learned that may help others start art therapy classes.
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My Fine Art Photography
I thought you had to be a fine artist or a photographer, but not both. This is my excursion into the realm of Fine Art Photography and photo manipulation.
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An Interview with Paintdrips
An Interview with the writer Paintdrips in response to the writing challenge. To share more about myself I did an interview with myself, Paintdrips.
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Artists Who Died Before 35: Elizabeth Siddal
This is the story of Elizabeth Siddal, model for the Pre-Raphaelites and artist in her own right. She died tragically of an overdose of laudanum after her daughter was stillborn.
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Artists Who Died Before 40: Jean-Antoine Watteau
This is the story of Jean-Antoine Watteau who immortalized a romantic era before wars and poverty changed the face of French art. Unfortunately, he died at the height of his powers, at the age of 36.
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How Long To Become A Successful Artist?
I'm a little discouraged that becoming a successful artist has taken SO LONG but I'm encouraged too that I'm still working on it. It will take time but becoming a creative is worth the effort.
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Artists Who Died Too Soon: N.C. Wyeth
Many artists died before their time, denying the world the benefit of more years of beauty and creativity. This is the story of N.C. Wyeth, the great American illustrator.
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10 Steps to Reasonable Goal Setting
To grow personally and professionally, you must be able to set goals that you can achieve and goals that stretch you. Being self-employed, I find goal setting techniques for the coming year key.
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Modern Conveniences: Help or Hinderance?
Ever felt paralyzed in a power outage? Even wonder how it would look to live off the grid? We take so much for granted instead of realizing these modern conveniences are just nice to have.
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Does Art Influence Society?
Do you think that society imitates art or movies or do movies influence society? As artists, should we give people what they want because they pay us, or should we give them what they need to see?
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Artists Who Died Before 50: Hans Holbein the Younger
This is the artist who has been studied and renown for his realism and detail. It’s too bad his life was rather short. This is the story of Hans Holbein the Younger.
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Little Known Facts: Michelangelo
Who doesn’t know about his famous ceiling of the Sistine Chapel? or Judgment Day? or the statue David? Here are few facts about the great artist, Michelangelo, you may not know.
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The Magnificence of the Wealthy
As an artist, I have some concern with magnificence and whether or not there still is any in the world. According to Aristotle, magnificence is a virtue pertaining to wealthy building great monuments.
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Music to Create By
What music is best for your brain and creativity, what is right to listen too and what is wrong. Music with lyrics or instrumental music,Classical or Jazz? The question is what is best for creativity?
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3 Ways to Totally Mess Up Your Blended Family
Helping blended families avoid the traps and sinkholes. Here are a few of the common sinkholes you may want to avoid: arguing in front of the children and confrontational extended family and kids.
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Waterski with Me
At the age of 11, I had my first experience with waterskiing and this is my capturing of those moments and experiences. Along with waterskiing, we would swim and camp overnight at the lake.
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3 More Ways to Mess Up Your Blended Family
My husband and I fell into sinkholes along the way, we know where they are and have dedicated our lives to helping other blended families avoid them. Here are 3 sinkholes you may want to avoid.
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Looking for Physical Beauty in Life Partners
What are you looking for in a mate, in a lifelong companion? Great gams? Desirable face and body? A great pair of jeans? Or the inward beauty of the soul? What is true beauty anyway? See here.
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Artists Who Died by 50: Grant Wood
Grant Wood is best known for paintings of rural America in a style known as Regionalism. He died the day before his 51st birthday of pancreatic cancer. This is his story.
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What Is Artistic Beauty?
I’m presented with the “beauty” issue all the time. What galleries want and don’t want to hang; what people want and don’t want to decorate around; what is and isn’t beautiful. So what is beauty?
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Artists Who Died Before 40: Georges Seurat
Georges Seurat is one of the most important Neo-Impressionists, considered the creator of the “pointillism”, in which small distinct points of primary colors create the impression of the other colors.
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Artists Who Died Before 50: Jackson Pollock
He captured feelings and emotions people did not think were there but when discovered they captured the imagination and jokes of the world. This is the story of Jackson Pollock.
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How to Create a Children’s Picture Book
I have some experience in children’s picture books and would love to share the parameters with you. Children’s books fall into one of several categories. Here's how to create a picture book.
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Artists Who Started Late in Life: Mary Delany
This is the story of an artist who didn’t begin her art till after her husband passed and she had free time on her hands. She was 71 and created Paper Mosaik botanical specimens: Mary Delany.
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Confessions from a Children’s Book Illustrator
People want illustrators to draw for a “percentage” of the proceeds or “exposure” IF it ever sells. There are several things wrong with this assumption and I have them listed here as art confessions.
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Corrugated Cardboard Printmaking for Children
If you want to expose your child to some fun and different artistic expressions, you have to try this method of block printing. Creative and fun. Good for printing T-shirts and fabric as well as paper
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Artists Who Died Before 50: Edouard Manet
This is the artist who started the direction of the artists’ movement that has remained a favorite of people for a century: the Impressionist movement. This is the story of Edouard Manet (1883-1932).
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Artists Who Died Before 30: Francesca Woodman
This is a story of an artist/photographer who didn’t live long but left an indelible mark and influence for the future generations of Fine Art Photographers: Francesca Woodman, 1958-1981.
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Artists Who Started Late in Life: Winston Churchill
For this artist, it is amazing that he found time for so many things and art too. But art became a tool to help him deal with the bouts of depression he suffered all his life: Winston Churchill.
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Artists Who Died Before 30: Aubrey Vincent Beardsley
Some artists succumbed to sickness, sadness and drug addiction before their work was done. This is the story of Aubrey Beardsley who died of tuberculosis before his 26th birthday. He died too young.
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Artists Who Started Later in Life: Edward Hopper
This is a story of an artist whose style wasn’t at first appreciated or recognized for what it was. It took time but finally he achieved the recognition he deserved: Edward Hopper (1882-1967).
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Artists Who Started Late in Life: Beatrix Potter
This is the story of one who didn’t intend to be an artist at all. She wanted to make her mark in science but as a woman, was denied access to the scientific community. Beatrix Potter's story.
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Artists Who Died Before 40: Randolph Caldecott
A British illustrator who started a little late and died young, but who changed the way children's books were viewed and received forever: Randolph Caldecott. Here is his story.
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Artists Who Died Before 40: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
It's so sad when artists die young and have sad afflictions. This is the story of one who fell into alcohol addiction but first made us all fall in love with the cabaret: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.
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Artists Who Died Before 50: Jan Vermeer
It’s so sad when anyone dies young, but doubly so for artists because there is so much more they could have done to make the world a more beautiful, colorful place. This is the story of Jan Vermeer.
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Artists Who Started Late in Life: Grandma Moses
Completely uneducated in art and considered a primitive and folk artist, Grandma Moses only began painting in earnest at the age of 78 when her husband died and left her some money. Her story next.
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3 Ways to Mess Up Your Blended Family
I feel like my husband and I stumbled into a whole passel of problems we could have handled better if only we had a “heads up” that a disaster was coming. Here are 3 problems you may face that help.
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A Portrait, Start to Finish
I’ve been doing portraits for a while now and I find them fun for me and fascinating for an audience. Each face has feeling and emotion. I am using pastel and collage to demo a portrait process.
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Having Children is a Game Changer
I can remember having all sorts of rules and witticisms that I intended to live by when I had children. I was never going to raise my voice, etc. Nothing went as planned. Here's what I have learned.
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Kitchen Aides for Health and Economy
We lived out in the country many years and created short cuts and home remedies for many things. Sometimes it is best to make do than to go purchase expensive and sometimes toxic manufactured sprays.
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What the Elderly Are Really Capable of Doing
I just finished this short book called Two Old Women. It got me thinking about what we are and are not really capable of. As I grow older I'm more aware of my limitations and my importance.
- 18
Homemade Ice Cream Recipes Experiments
I remember lazy summer evenings with fireworks after dark and barbecue before dark, my father on the ice cream churn. That was the best ice cream I ever had. Here are a few recipe experiments.
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You Can Escape from an Abusive Relationship
Abusive relationships are becoming commonplace. It just isn’t right the way we allow others to treat us. I didn’t really think I deserved better. Truthfully, no one deserves abuse. How to get out.
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Glossy Black Metal Text Effect in Adobe Photoshop
Create a glossy black metal effect for text and images in Adobe Photoshop. You can use the beautiful technique for a number of other projects in the future.
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Create a 3-D Text Effect in Photoshop
This is a super simple, easy to follow tutorial on creating a 3-D text effect for headings and images in Adobe Photoshop. Once you have created one, you can use it for other projects in the future.
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Create a Denim Jean Texture in Photoshop
This is a super simple, easy to follow tutorial on creating a Denim Jean effect for headings and images in Adobe Photoshop. This makes a beautiful text heading or background for your flyer and books.
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Easy Effortless Printmaking for Children
Printmaking is usually a craft reserved for the seasoned artist wanting to create many copies of a single work of art. Here is a method that can be used by kids to print cards and even T-shirts.
- 8
Homeschool Dilemmas: Keeping the Peace
One of the biggest flies in the sugar bowl of our homeschool was outspoken members of my family who thought keeping our children home was wrong. Here is how I handled them and keeped the peace too.
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Childhood Stages of Creative Growth and Self Expression
Studies reveal that children exposed to different forms of creative expression at an early age will reflect more “mature” expressions of creative development. Here are a few of the things to look at.
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Simple and Easy Party Lanterns
Have a little soiree planed? Want something cool and unusual for the children to create to keep them busy? These little lawn lanterns are perfect and easy. You can make dozens fairly inexpensively.
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Bread Clay Project for Kids and Crafters
The clay is simple and economical, fun to make, perfect for the kids. I have directions for aliens, bugs, and flowers. My children have made all these and the process as well as the finished project.
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10 Things You Should Never Say to a Photographer
I can think of more things I have heard unthinking people say to my husband and me as photographers, but I wanted to keep the list short. Here it is, things you should not say to a photographer.
- 14
How to Choose Fonts for the Right Mood
There are so many fonts to choose from and each one conveys a mood and emotion. The problem is finding the right font for just the right mood you want to convey. Here are a few tips to think about.
- 20
What Led Up To Homeschooling My Children
Why would you want to take on the burden and responsibility to your children’s education? In my case, there were several reasons for our choice to homeschool and here some of them are.
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Memoirs of a Drama Director’s Wife
It’s very interesting being married to a drama director and theatrical writer. When we couldn’t get anyone else to help, we would turn to our own dramatic troupe, our kids. Here are a few highlights.
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Does Dramatic Performance Cure Shyness
If you have a hard time with public speaking or have a very shy child, try dramatic performance. I know this sounds totally absurd for a person already afraid of the public but it does work.
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Twig Wood Text Effect in Adobe Photoshop
This is an easy to follow tutorial on creating a woody text effect for headings in Adobe Photoshop. I’m using the Liquify Filter, Bevel and Emboss and Photo overlay to create the foreground lighting.
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Celebrities Who Knit
I knitted for myself, my friends and family, my children, and now my grandchildren. Many people knit. Men and women. Even celebrities knit. Here are just a few of the knitters you may know of.
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Things for Kids to do this Summer
You can just hear the comments of boredom and laziness from your children. So what is a parent to do? Arm yourself with a list of things for these bored kids to do during the summer for sanity.
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The Blended Family and Anger Management
Statics say more than half of marriages end in divorce. With that said, the possibilities of second chance marriages means lots of step parenting. Angry children need help dealing.
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Create a Spacy Nebula Text Effect in Adobe Photoshop
This is an easy to follow tutorial on creating a glowing space scene perfect for a text effect for headings and images in Adobe Photoshop. I show step by step how to create a nebula and space.
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Colorful Rainbow Text Effect in Photoshop
This is a super simple, easy to follow tutorial on creating a glowing colorful text effect for headings and images in Adobe Photoshop. Follow along step by step to create this for yourself.
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Glowing Textured Text Effect in Adobe Photoshop
This is a really easy to follow tutorial on creating a great glowing effect for text and images in Adobe Photoshop. This tutorial makes a beautiful text heading for your flyers or business cards.
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Intro to Photoshop: Faded Color Photo Problems
How many times have you opened an old honored album only to find prized photos fading and damaged, seemingly beyond repair? Well, I have a few steps you can take with Adobe Photoshop to fix your pix.
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Intro to Photoshop: Faded B & W Photo Problems
Have you ever wanted to know how to make your old photographs better? This is a short tutorial to help fix scratches, tears and damaged precious old black and white photos in Photoshop. Enjoy.
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Intro to Photoshop: the Tool Bar Part 3
In this introduction, I will cover the rest of the tools listed on the tool bar starting with Dodge and Burn and how to make each one work. Like many things the more you practice, the better you get.
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Intro to Photoshop: the Tool Bar Part 2
If you are like me, new technology is intimidating. Some things are worth the effort. Adobe Photoshop is one of those. Like many things, the more you practice, the better you get at it. This is pt2.
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Intro to Photoshop: the Tool Bar Part 1
If you are like me, new technology is intimidating. There are some things that are well worth the effort. Adobe Photoshop is one of those. Like many things the more you practice, the better you get.
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Old Chrome Text Effect In Adobe Photoshop
This is a really easy to follow tutorial on creating a reflective chrome effect for text in Adobe Photoshop. I have Adobe Photoshop CS6 but you can also use this technique with older versions.
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Awesome Gold Text Effect In Photoshop
I chose to do this Gold lettering on a hammered metal surface in Adobe Photoshop. This is a fun and fairly easy gold effect for letters you can use on photos or just a dark background. You'll love it.
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Fun Fiery Text Effect in Adobe Photoshop
Working with Photoshop text can be fun and very rewarding in certain visual messages or advertisements. Understanding the Photoshop program is one obstacle this exercise will help to solve.
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More Jokes for Today's Senior Citizens
I think humor is so important in our lives. We need to laugh for health, for happiness. Without humor, live would be a sad affair. I think God invented humor and intended for us to exercise it.
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Create a Frozen Text Effect in Photoshop
Working with Photoshop text can be fun and very rewarding in certain visual messages or advertisements. This step-by-step procedure will explain how easy it is to create icy text effect in Photoshop.
- 30
Simplify Your Home: Declutter
My husband and I have more time for creative endeavors; less time spent cleaning and maintaining a home since we moved. Here are a few of the things we have learned about simplifying your home.
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Aversion to Certain Colors
I have a strange aversion to the color green. I always knew I didn’t like it much; noticed I’d rather not wear anything green; didn’t decorate the house with it; but just wasn’t aware why.
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Superstitions, Old Wives Tales, and Tradition 2
Are they superstitions, old wives tales or just tradition? We follow these things because our elders did before us without giving it much thought. Where do these come from. Here is just a few.
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Superstitions, Old Wives Tales, and Tradition
Over the years I have heard several superstitions, most of which are laughable. Yet my mother taught me to say “Bless You” when sneezing, and not walk under ladders. Superstition or tradition?
- 24
Tales of Rejection
Rejection is hard to take. Yet acceptance is all the sweeter when you have faced rejection several times. That is the life of the writer and illustrator.
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Blended Families—Me and the Other Mother
Today blended families have a completely different feel and dynamic than 30 years ago. But relationships between the Mom and the other mother is still a strained place to be. Here is my take on it.
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Stories of Sisters
Little sister, younger sis, sibling, brat, whatever you call her, she is special. She seems to hold a place in my life like no one else can, not even best friends. A story of sisters then and now.
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Yarns and Knitting Oddities
If you have a stash of yarn that you cannot possibly knit unless you live 150 years then you can relate to some the stories here. Different yarns, stories and oddities explored.
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Rejection Letters Don’t Kill, Only Maim A Little.
Rejection is hard to take but not fatal. Dealing with it, adding humor and determination can be the most positive things that every happened to a good writer or illustrator. My experience.
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English Language Peculiarities 2
The English Language is filled with peculiarities. It seems to me that words are the poorest way to get messages across, and it must be doubly hard for those learning it as a second language.
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Problems With The English Language
Anyone who has tried to learn a foreign language knows that it takes time to get the vocabulary correct. Some of the funniest incidents can happen when you are off by just one letter or inflection.
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Jokes for Today's Senior Citizens
One of the greatest things about hanging out with the seniors was there humors way of looking at the world. They often told about funny things that happened to them in their life. Here are a few.
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Today’s Wicked Step Mother
When we think of stepmothers, why is it a horrible cackling witch enticing some innocent with an apple, or a mean tyrant doling out workloads like a slavedriver comes to mind? I hate that.
- 16
Art Therapy for Special Needs People
I have had plenty of experience with teaching art. But the most interesting and challenging classes were the ones where a group of special needs people arrived. The benefits of art therapy are great.
- 25
Bible Funnies and Jokes
The Bible is full of funny things. All you have to do is look for them. Here are just a few of my favorite Bible jokes and funny one-liners.
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What Can You Do After 60?
Is it over? Is there life after 60? Can a person achieve goals and dreams after retirement? The answers to these questions and many more are examined here. Journey with me.
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Outside Games and Activities for Bored Children
When your children are bored do you point them outside? There doesn’t always have to be a party to have fun activities. There are so many fun games we played before electronic devices.
- 10
Build Your Own Kite DIY
It’s that time of year again, when the breeze picks up and the weather warms enough to go enjoy it with a kite. From history of kites to making your own, you find it here.
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How to Choose Safe, Easy Passwords
With Internet banking and shopping becoming vogue, choosing and remember passwords is becoming harder and more challenging. These are some excellent suggestions for making memorable and secure, unhackable passwords.
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Shopping at Thrift Stores Helps the Economy
We have become a society concerned about the environment, economy and ecology. Recycling is our watchword, yet many still feel uncomfortable at thrift stores. What is that about?
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What Does Your Handwriting Say About You?
Graphology is the study of handwriting and the clues it reveals about your personality. Here are just a few of the clues to look for when analyzing your handwriting.
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Confessions of a Former Homeschool Mom
Homeschooling is still a bit controversial today but was really frowned on when I pulled my 4 children out of public school 3 decades ago. Here are a few of the interesting things I found out.
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Make Your Own Paper Mache Piñatas
Paper Mache has been around a long time. It is the perfect material to create piñatas because it is breakable, yet firm and moldable. Here are some reasons to make your own piñata.
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Thermostat wars--Keep Your Home Comfortable in Winter
My husband is a cold-blooded guy and likes his home warm. I’m a hot-blooded girl and like it on the cool side. Thus the thermostat wars begin every winter when temperatures drop.
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The Lost Art of Sending Cards: Ecards vs Paper Cards
Its the holidays when people think of sending cards to let folks know they are thought of, missed and remembered. The problem is that cards, especially with a personal message, has become a lost art.
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3 Ways To Fix Those Painting Booboos
Artists are always looking for ways to touch up, and fix those less than perfect paintings. Here are three ways to upgrade and repair those otherwise discarded watercolor paintings.
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Digital Jobs for a Working Artist
The whole world has gone digital. If you have already embraced digital art then you are ahead of the curve. I have listed a few of the jobs you could get with digital art experience.
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More Jobs for a Working Artist
The great thing about being an artist is that you don’t have to focus on only one skill or medium. Part of keeping creativity fresh is experimentation in other disciplines. The jobs follow.
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Jobs for a Working Artist
Artists can be many things and do many jobs. Here is a short-listing of art jobs and skill levels. For the sake of this article I am concentrating on visual arts.
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Water for Elephants... A Book Review
This book made me picture my life in the years to come. What will I think about and remember? What will I dwell on when there is only my and my active mind against an inactive body? A good read.
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Travel Round Ireland… with a Fridge book review
Want some light reading? Enjoy a little travel? Romance? Danger? Humor? Kitchen Appliances? This is the perfect book.
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What I Want People To Say About Me When I’m Gone
It seems like a morbid thought, but I gave given thought to my funeral. Having attended the funerals for my father and others, and the wake that followed, I know how people can talk about the things.
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Holidays for the Blended Family
I hate inequality. It is one of those things that as a parent we fight against. However the very nature of stepfamilies prohibits equality. I have a few suggestions to help even the problems out.
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Facing Difficult Decisions
When you don’t know which way to go in a situation, how do you deal with it? Do you flip a coin; play “eanie, meanie, minie, moe”? I have a few ways of making hard decisions that may help you.
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Love God and Sleep Naked
As a minister's wife, I got to a lot of weddings and I'm always asked what advice I would give the newlywed couple. Here is my best advice:
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Helpful Kitchen Alternatives
I have collected a number of helpful alternatives to save money and the environment. Some of these things have been around for years and some of them I have only recently discovered.
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Multiculturalism in Children's Books in America
I just read some disturbing statics about multicultural representation in children's books and I can’t seem to move on without discussing them. Let me know what you think.
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Stenciled Paper Craft Projects
If it has to be special, why not make it yourself? After all, taking the time to make the bag design yourself says you really care! This stenciled paper can be used for bags, wrapping, and more.
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The Mysteries of Composition Examined
To make painting and drawing interesting you have to consider composition as well as subject matter. Here are a few tips about composition.
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A Short History of Knitting
If you have ever had problems reading a pattern and can’t figure out why one is understandable and another seems to be beyond you, well, I have the reason. The History of Knitting!
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More Knitting Basics Explained
People are always asking me is knit or crochet easier? It’s not that simple. I love doing them both. Here are a few tips to understand the process better.
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Knitting Basics Explained
I have knitted since I was about 10 years old and loved the way it feels and hangs when warn. These are a few explanations of the process techniques to help beginning knitters make better garments.
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Blended Family Situations and Helps
The statistics state over half of marriages end in divorce. With most of those involving children and remarriage, the problems with blended family situations is one the rise and help is out there.
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Stories of My Dad's Childhood in Indiana
My father told us some fascinating stories of growing up in southern Indiana, right on the Ohio River. He was a funny practical joker and here are some of his stories: A lasting memorial and tribute.
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Non-Electronic Motivational and Educational Games for Kids
I know there are myriads of cool educational games and apps for families today but don't neglect the non-electronic games that can be played on a long car trip. No pencils or devices needed.
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Drawing Tips and Techniques
I feel drawing is something that many people can do but are afraid to take the risk of not being perfect. Anyone can draw and here are a few tips to help you get started.
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Watercolor Techniques for Everyone
People have asked me if watercolor was hard. I had heard that too and avoided watercolor for a long time in favor of oils; I was afraid it would be too hard to tackle. My fears were unfounded.
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What I Should Have Done
Some time ago, as I thought about my dear little sister and our close friendship, I realized I had not been a very good big sister when we were growing up. I wrote this as a reminder to all sisters.
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Recycle and Repurpose Old Greeting Cards
Recycling and repurposing is the thing to do today. Reduce waste and save money too but recycling those endless greeting cards that come your home yearly. They are pretty and creative.
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Parents are Teachers Too
As parents we are the first and most important teachers our children will ever have. It is our task to make sure kids feel ready to take on the unknown future with confidence and self assurance.
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Story of the Kybo Monster
This is a funny little story I made up about a real event in my life. The Kybo was a place my father made for us to use the bathroom on trips in the wilderness. Fun and funny bathroom story.
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Basic Watercolor Techniques Explained
For years I avoided watercolor because I believed the talk: Watercolor is HARD. This just isn’t so. I have a few simple tips and techniques to help you discover the beauty of watercolor for yourself.
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Helen Jane Long--Extraordinary Piano Music
Some of the most soothing, sweet instrumental music you have ever heard is the piano music of Helen Jane Long. She is a British composer and accomplished pianist. Her interview is very telling.
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Preserving Food by Canning
These recipes I learned from my mother and grandmother. I have included Mom's Favorite Spaghetti Sauce, and Tomato Salsa recipes and how we canned them. The memories are as rich as the recipes.
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The New Old Staycation Option
Summer is a time when the kids are home and life slows down somewhat. When people used to go on vacation, many are opting for the less stressful, less expensive staycation instead.
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10 Tips to Promoting Creativity in Your Life
Turning on the creative side of the brain can be a daunting task if you have all sorts of distractions going on around you. Here are 10 tips to turning those off and turning creativity on.
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Frugal Females Today
It has been years since in knew what “extra” money was. It seems like no one has a disposable income like they used to. Just getting by from month to month and trying not to go over-budget.
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Homer's Odyssey: A Cat Story
Even if you don't like cats, you will fall in love with the antics of this one: The story of a courageous cat with no eyes and a day no one will forget.
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Overcoming an Abusive Relationship
Abusers want one thing only: to control you. They use fear, intimidation, manipulation, guilt and shame to get what they want. They don’t tell you the truth about your choices, and your rights.
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Create a Fan with a Cat Drawing
Decorate two pieces of paper with cat drawings to create a classic paper fan. Perfect kids project for the hot summer months. Not bad for those pesky hot flashes too.
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Create a Winter Village in Paper
Create a Christmas village in miniature with lights and cotton batting for snow, or even a mirror for a frozen lake. I have created my own in paper.
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What Turning 60 Means
If a computer was something the size of a stadium, moon landings were only in books by Jules Verne, the latest medical break-through was the polio vaccine, then you might be around sixty.
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Preparing for a Kidney Donation
Kidney transplant lists are so long, waiting for a donor could mean a death sentence. When my daughter announced her decision to give life to someone, I was filled with mixed emotions.
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Hmong Story Quilts
I love crafts and quilts, so it is not surprise that these Hmong Story Quilts caught my eye. I had to know more about these fascinating art forms, so I did some research. Here’s what I found.
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Flower-Power Collage
A collage is technically paper and things glued together. I like to make mine create an overall image and even make that dimensional. This is one of my collage methods.
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Save Money At The Grocery Store
Shopping has become a sensory overload in the barrage of colors and reading required. So to really save you need to go armed with a few tips and techniques ahead of time. Here are a few to help.
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Natural Beads for Jewelry
Using natural elements like seeds and bread clay, you can make your own beads for jewelry. This craft project shows two methods of creating beads you will love.
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Liberate Your Life by Downsizing
Downsizing has a bad reputation equated with deprivation, starvation, and lack. The truth is that it is liberating and even joyous. I have never been so happy: I got rid of stuff weighing me down.
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Dad, The Practical Joker
He knew how to set up a "joke bomb" that was funny but not hurtful. He taught me the meaning of funny and I am who I am because of him. He was my Dad and a great practical joker.
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Drawing for Everyone
Drawing is not only for those born with talent or into an artsy family. I think anyone can be taught to draw. Like playing a musical instrument takes time and practice, so does art. A few tips:
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What Not to Say to Artists
Just like you shouldn't tell plumber jokes to plumbers, or blond jokes to blonds, this is a list of things you probably shouldn't say to artists. We're sensitive; that's what makes us good artists.
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Maya Angelou, Caged Bird Sings
A white girl raised in California, I had no idea what it was like for Maya growing up in the South during the depression. If she had not written this compelling and honest book, I never would have.
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Mmm, Chicken and Dumplings
I love a good soup on a cold day. It warms down to the toe nails. This one is one of my favorites because of it's ease and nostalgia. My mom made it and my family loves it. What could be better?
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Tribute to Nelson Scott
My father, Nelson Scott, had great impact on myself and many others. He was only 60 when he passed and I feel compelled to remember him for those who didn't and now won't ever get to know him.
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Scotts Heritage and Stories
I am a Scott and recently found out my heritage goes back to Scotland and the Highlands. I am related to Sir Walter Scott, the famous poet and Sir Beardie Scott who received title from King James.
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A Boy and His Red Balloon
Do you remember this charming French movie? I saw it for the first time in grade school and didn't even remember that it was French. No words necessary to understand this movie and it's message.
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Mythos Academy Series, a Frosty Story
Looking for an interesting way to learn about Spartans, Vikings, or Ninja tales and folk lore? This clever and creative YA novel series takes you to a teen academy populated by their descendants.
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Stylist on the side
You can save a lot of money with a few simple lessons on cutting your family's hair and some good quality clippers. This is much easier than you might think. Watch the videos and see.
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Beauty Product for Eczema
I've had a problem with eczema for many years and finally found a product that works without a prescription. And it's Avon. Who knew? This is a non-greasy alternative to eczema treatment.
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Bit by the Shutter-Bug
I have loved cameras and snapping pictures since I was small. At 10, my dad gave me my first camera and that began a life long love affair with images. These are just a few of my photos over years.
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Looking Back at Vintage Phones
I remember using rotary phones and even a party line before the Princess phone came? Phones have come a long way; track the evolution from one girl's point of view. Trot down memory lane with me.
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Upcycle Your Magazines Into Fine Art
I love art. I embrace ecology. I discovered that magazine pages have a natural sheen and lots of colors so I began using them to create fine art: here's how I did it.
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That Astounding Purple Crayon Book
This is a review of a charming, astounding children's book that inspires creativity and imagination and may be overlooked but is genius in it's simplicity. A must have for any children's library.
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Watch The Mentalist?
One of my favorite TV shows is The Mentalist for many reasons. I recommend it to anyone asking and here's why:
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Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window
If you are a lover of movies made in the 50's or just love nostalgia, you probably have heard of Rear Window, an all-time classic Alfred Hitchcock film with Jimmy Stewart and Grace Kelly. I loved it.
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Knitting Needle Size Tool, a nice tool to have
I have been knitting since I was about 10 years old. It is a relaxing, calming, productive activity and I love the feel of knit garments. There are a few tools that make the process much easier.
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My Pioneer Ancestors
The Bollingers were immigrants from Switzerland and were a strong folk. I feel I got some of my pioneering spirit from them. They blazed through the wilderness carving out a home against all odds.
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The Family Magazine
One cold boring winter day, we created a Family Magazine and things were never the same. The kids learned a lot about the family by conducting interviews for the next issues, and even sold copies.
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Where Nerds Are Cool: Big Bang Theory
I really love to watch The Big Bang Theory. Even without TV access I can watch on the internet. It is hilarious and genius (literally) and challenges my intellect while making me laugh. Must see.
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Mighty Mouse To Save the Day
Ever feel like a damsel in distress? Like you need someone to save you? Like you are dying for some nostalgia? Well, nothing picks up your day like a super mouse on the way. One of my favorites.
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Hollow Book Novelty DIY
This is an exceptional gift for the person who has everything, or at least, thinks he's seen everything. A hollow book to keep your private stash in. My sister hides her chocolate bars in it.
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Who I Am Inside, Mulan
I love this movie. Okay, it's for kids but there are some deep underlying messages here. It is filled with self-discover that every girl must face, preconceptions about gender and much more.
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Christmas Traditions: Cutting Our Own Tree
Family traditions are important for children. I have several favorite traditions that have great meaning for me, and I passed them on to my children. Cutting our own Christmas tree is just one.
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Richard Green's TV Robin Hood
The first Robin Hood I remember was Richard Greene's portrayal of the English hero, which works out perfectly as Richard Greene was English. This is an epic heroic adventure you must see for yourself
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My Favorite Knitting Tools
Why I prefer using bamboo circular needles over the straight and aluminum needles, discussed here along with some other favorite knitting tools.
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Camping With Dad
Camping the old way, with tents and sleeping on the ground under the wilderness sky, requires some investment in the right equipment. I learned to love camping from my Dad, a real pioneer.
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Twice as Happy with Half as Much
I have found that the downsizing nightmare was really a blessing in disguise. I love living smaller, lighter, and healthier than before. We have developed a habit of regularly weeding the debris.
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Juices for Healthier Living
Live longer, feel better, have more energy, better digestion: so many reasons to use a juicer. I got mine to loose weight but was surprised that my concoctions tasted good and I felt better too.
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Prepared for Anything
I owned a Dremel tool for art purposes for about 10 years. I know it has a lot of uses but until this one day I didn't realize how useful and essential this tool has become. Uses for everything.