On This Day

On this day in 2011 I got my first ever up close view of American Bison. At the time I was living in an area that was on the migration path for elk and bison. These animals would flow between Grand Teton and Yellowstone Parks and the National Elk Refuge. They went to the parks in the spring and to the refuge in the winter.

We did not approach the bison that day. Just a hint, you should never get in their space on purpose. That is considered harassment and is dangerous. Stressing winter weary animals by doing that is not cool at all. They came to us and flowed around our stopped car. We just stayed in place so they could safely go on their way.

Isn't he majestic?

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Take care and stay cozy!

 

6 Year Ago, A Wedding

It was 6 years ago today that my son got married for the second time. The wedding was outdoors and casual. The bride and groom actually wore jeans and so did most of the rest of us. All of their children were there and between them they have 8. Both sets of parents, his and hers were able to be there. Her parents and one of the bride's sisters had to come all the way from Calgary, Canada but they made it. It was a fun group and a lovely day.

They have not always had it easy since then but they are still together and that is good. The first of their children is getting married soon. It seems that time flies so fast!

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Take care and stay cozy! 

 

Mine Now

As you can see from the small picture with my name on it, I painted this in 1997. At that time, I was part of a group of crafty women that I enjoyed very much. Most but not all of us worked as teacher's aides with the Title 1 program at an elementary school. We rotated the home we met at once a month. I have lost touch with those ladies over the years, and I miss that. 

One of the crafts we did together was tole or folk art painting. A couple of us, including me had scroll saws to cut out the wood we painted. So, I got this pattern from a book, cut and prepared the wood and then painted the design.

I gave this to my mother after it was finished. For all the years after, except on holidays when she had other decorations, it hung at her home just outside the front door. Her porch was shaded and protected from the weather so it has held up very well.

When she passed away, I took it back to bring to my home. It now hangs on my front door. I took these pictures of it at her house 2 years ago today. The house has been sold and it it my understanding that the new family is updating the kitchen, which is needed, before they move in. I hope they build a beautiful life there creating many fond memories like we did.

I want to keep it in good condition so I will need to keep an eye on it. I hope the Arizona heat and sun aren't too damaging to it. What I know so far is that I need a way to anchor it better to my front door. When the wind blows it bangs on the door a bit reacting to the gusts. That should be simple enough.

So my questions today if you choose to comment...

So, do you have anything in your home that comes from the home of a loved one that has passed away? Do you keep it in a place you can see it everyday to bring you comfort? All relevant comment are treasured and very welcome. Or just say hello, I'd love to hear from you.

Back with more again soon. 

Take care and stay cozy!