Alphabet of the Ordinary: A

A few months ago I heard about a photographer who takes pictures of the ‘ordinary’ in her life in an attempt to capture those very mundane moments and objects that illuminate the essence of a particular life in a particular time. A couple of Sundays ago, an alphabet of ordinary items found in my home started to whisper their way into being. I have long been enamored of the alphabet--perhaps because I teach young children, perhaps because words have been central to my journey, and to me, letters are building blocks--seeds for expression and connection. And so, each day for the next 26, I will listen for the whisperings of these objects I take for granted within these walls to hear what they have to say about my life. 

crocheted long ago

an embrace across the years

Grandma's warmth lives on

Coming Attractions

Here is a preview of the pieces that I am working to upload to my etsy site. The poppy bowl was featured before the final firing in the entry before this one. The colors are so much more vibrant! The etsy site will feature additional photographs of each piece, as well as measurements and additional information.

Warm Remembrance

Yesterday's snow has given way to blue skies and freezing temperatures. Typically, the temperatures would be no problem for me on a 'snow day' tucked inside my studio room--but, the heat in the house is broken. We have been without heat for more than twenty-four hours. So, with my 'recess' hat, down vest, and several pairs of socks on I find myself painting. Painting poppies! The warm reds and oranges along with the act of painting serve as a beautiful distraction from the chilly air. As I was finishing up with my poppies I recalled that poppies sometimes signify 'remembrance'--and I found that today I wish to remember all those for whom a lack of heat is a daily reality. I am grateful for the reminder.

Knitting the Gray Away!

What better way to spend an icy rainy day than knitting a brightly colored scarf to combat the pervasive gray that is outside my window! It is fun to watch the colors blend and change. Getting anything else done is a bit challenging, however, as I keep thinking I'll put it away in one more section.

Rocks, rock!

The rocks pictured in the banner at the top of the blog and the etsy site are from the shores of Lake Superior where I have been fortunate to find myself for a week during each of the past many summers. One of my absolute favorite activities is to sit on the beach with a pitcher of water and immerse myself in the rocks. Sifting, dipping, turning them in my hands like so many jewels; they are like brightly colored snowflakes, no two exactly the same. Quite a few have been gathered to my space here in Baltimore, and they bring with them inspiration and a literal touchstone to a spot of beauty.

Brown Paper Packages

Now that the leaves have fallen, the bones of the trees are once more visible. And, suspended high above in one of the backyard trees, is a wasp nest. After the initial surprise, I was able to appreciate (from afar) the beauty of this creation. This nest is made from paper made by the wasps. The swirls and spirals a work of art. 

(s)now day!

For the first time in many years, we are having snow in December. One of the gifts of a snow day (besides the fact that I don't have to go to school) is that snow days seem to change time. Events are cancelled, errands put aside, and it is ever so much easier to tuck in and read a book or paint or dream. I am able to find the 'now' in a (s)now day which is especially important in this extra busy season.