tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25992310232872621242024-03-12T19:46:56.766-07:00Play Me A Happy SongAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.comBlogger81125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-89585792778067617492015-11-24T04:07:00.000-08:002015-11-24T04:07:15.795-08:00FingerweavingWhen I worked at <a href="http://playmeahappysong.blogspot.nl/2014/10/fort-union-trading-post.html">Fort Union</a>, I learned how to fingerweave so that I could give demonstrations for visitors. Even after my season was over, I enjoyed making fingerwoven sashes and scarves and have recently listed a couple on Etsy.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://img0.etsystatic.com/127/1/5735312/il_570xN.849737412_bj1j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/127/1/5735312/il_570xN.849737412_bj1j.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple <i>chevron </i>pattern scarf. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/251835072/pink-and-green-wool-scarf-traditional?ref=shop_home_feat_1">Etsy</a></td></tr>
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So what is fingerweaving? It is basically a technique for weaving without a loom. The strands of yarn are anchored at one end, and then each strand is cycled through the pattern as both warp (lengthwise threads) and weft (horizontal thread that is inserted over and under the warp). You can see a video demonstration <a href="http://www.metismuseum.ca/resource.php/02396">here</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZIPJPbWEfF9fFXV1t9zi750uIIi8685WhkJtho8WiBBFlgjM9xTI7hxOaCvhFp5s7f4oK9rPA0QZoBMgccgwtjtkTETkEZKFh2ermFlfNd3OCno13DO9ma06S3Cvq_hOSbpcerWpssd16/s1600/arrow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZIPJPbWEfF9fFXV1t9zi750uIIi8685WhkJtho8WiBBFlgjM9xTI7hxOaCvhFp5s7f4oK9rPA0QZoBMgccgwtjtkTETkEZKFh2ermFlfNd3OCno13DO9ma06S3Cvq_hOSbpcerWpssd16/s400/arrow.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beaded <i>arrowhead</i> belt.</td></tr>
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This technique is associated with the Métis of the Northern Plains. Métis are the descendants of early European fur trappers and native women. Their culture is a blend of traditions and skills from both aspects of their heritage.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCWujnZVMJSQQb_hfUspMpjAKCRxgsDR3MIFeuCVIXM2NmWEd5HivBRnqKANElZ1pl31GZImxNIrk7Q99casOU5YU8tnAoDkHSXs134anc-9LE5nj_wSvCPkFNBrZMwldijoEuY8ZQjvI/s1600/flame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCWujnZVMJSQQb_hfUspMpjAKCRxgsDR3MIFeuCVIXM2NmWEd5HivBRnqKANElZ1pl31GZImxNIrk7Q99casOU5YU8tnAoDkHSXs134anc-9LE5nj_wSvCPkFNBrZMwldijoEuY8ZQjvI/s400/flame.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Flame</i> sash.</td></tr>
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Their fingerwoven sashes (also known by the French voyageurs as ceinture fléchée) had many practical uses. A wide sash wrapped around the waist functioned as a weight belt. Fold that sash in half lengthwise, and you had a pocket to carry things you needed easy access to, or hang a pouch on it to hold your pipe. The wool fibers kept the cold from creeping up under your shirt. Different colors and patterns could represent your company or group.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3VgHsTc2x0rjUicI27ZKjKMEFFp5txc76XCjTbJq6rQPJ5CqnKGE7W8OOrY9EFWsRAuaKpy8NR_YtHG6ehyphenhyphen2nfPS4gMoxMB5zr4Xz1-apuL8CFTAIJL29pPpbZF9kSWT1wRFH81wgrJF/s1600/purse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe3VgHsTc2x0rjUicI27ZKjKMEFFp5txc76XCjTbJq6rQPJ5CqnKGE7W8OOrY9EFWsRAuaKpy8NR_YtHG6ehyphenhyphen2nfPS4gMoxMB5zr4Xz1-apuL8CFTAIJL29pPpbZF9kSWT1wRFH81wgrJF/s400/purse.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Diamond </i>with vertical border<i></i> purse.</td></tr>
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My own examples are quite simple in comparison to the intricate work historically made by native artisans. It can take me from a week to a month to complete a project; some of the most intricate and beautiful Métis sashes represent several years of work. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ839XcJZDMvZuhgtuuUJHfDYs4HKH3oB2BOjTGdmbljDj2_uvcQ6dACHGgo8w0mXHgYyXIRDCQzUYvNA356QzLquu4px8Uk2jcDNAoZCEYGhY41Ck0qc3nJRcOXGw5UC1HWJdHVxUWD40/s1600/lightning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ839XcJZDMvZuhgtuuUJHfDYs4HKH3oB2BOjTGdmbljDj2_uvcQ6dACHGgo8w0mXHgYyXIRDCQzUYvNA356QzLquu4px8Uk2jcDNAoZCEYGhY41Ck0qc3nJRcOXGw5UC1HWJdHVxUWD40/s400/lightning.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double <i>lightning</i> with glass beads.</td></tr>
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<h4>
Further Reading:</h4>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_841709998"></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.metismuseum.ca/index.php">Virtual Museum of Métis History and Culture</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.moonrivermetis.com/metis-culture/sash-flag">Moon River Métis Council </a><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fingerweaving-Untangled-Illustrated-Beginners-Including/dp/097846950X/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1448363105&sr=8-3&keywords=fingerweaving">Fingerweaving Untangled (Carol James) </a><span id="goog_841709994"></span><span id="goog_841709995"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-68739755544139302662015-11-02T05:17:00.000-08:002015-11-02T05:17:06.220-08:00Goulish Things AfootWhile Halloween isn't widely celebrated in the Netherlands, the local downtown organized a festival on Friday night where people could show off their costumes. The big event was a parade to showcase the local creativity and talent. Several big names were there, such as Cinderella.<br />
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A group of Vikings flew in on their bellowing dragons. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTDXBSNT09ehWxxgP8GLkvv9_tZUm2lv7Je7QnUMMK4lMgkCHeZ1G0dJXEtMlmSgE-aRx0VBgdExQSMZjwhr_O3U_VrqhMy3pHTPdNcN_YQ5eRUktwO-3gRdg6o45cardJ9kSZZMNwBBBb/s1600/halloween.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTDXBSNT09ehWxxgP8GLkvv9_tZUm2lv7Je7QnUMMK4lMgkCHeZ1G0dJXEtMlmSgE-aRx0VBgdExQSMZjwhr_O3U_VrqhMy3pHTPdNcN_YQ5eRUktwO-3gRdg6o45cardJ9kSZZMNwBBBb/s400/halloween.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was a little worried to see the <i>Brandweer</i> (fire brigade) seemed to have been taken over by giant spiders, spooky skeletons, and other spectres. Luckily, the Ecto-1 had gone by earlier, so you know who ya gonna call! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7i53RUpujKtJaElGr3QYpx81hyphenhyphenU8r_GXpVaWNdTEoA6pvq9mO1x0f2AxRNn3BBBPQ6i8bUcVxU-rht5Hi2QbuTVhuxuUCVYOLNtJtTY39l9OnMsx1LXvz9mJLIaXjmwgGwiNDsS1q1X-J/s1600/halloween2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7i53RUpujKtJaElGr3QYpx81hyphenhyphenU8r_GXpVaWNdTEoA6pvq9mO1x0f2AxRNn3BBBPQ6i8bUcVxU-rht5Hi2QbuTVhuxuUCVYOLNtJtTY39l9OnMsx1LXvz9mJLIaXjmwgGwiNDsS1q1X-J/s400/halloween2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0Zoetermeer, Netherlands52.060669 4.494024999999965151.982570499999994 4.3326634999999651 52.1387675 4.655386499999965tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-85412455242555006672015-10-22T01:30:00.002-07:002015-10-22T01:30:23.726-07:00Get Your Kicks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Back when I worked in the Texas panhandle, I enjoyed exploring Route 66.
I took a trip to Tucumcari, NM to see it's famous Route 66 neon and stayed at
the Blue Swallow Motel. I recently came across some of my old New Mexico photos and
decided to take a break from my bigger projects to make this fun little
ACEO.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7j34dRxUjvlokHmzBt1swOv4JXwRLeoYs023OQwBzxZPhwPteKz74J7KZyFDmxkgSS6ulIJnzqsfgmdxGBl6WTHaKEYDhjcumK_GSgqIpEVZ5QSY5wwhluvW2zOOKRsw8dXktex1KfMw/s1600/rte66.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN7j34dRxUjvlokHmzBt1swOv4JXwRLeoYs023OQwBzxZPhwPteKz74J7KZyFDmxkgSS6ulIJnzqsfgmdxGBl6WTHaKEYDhjcumK_GSgqIpEVZ5QSY5wwhluvW2zOOKRsw8dXktex1KfMw/s400/rte66.JPG" width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>See this ACEO on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/251828034/original-aceo-route-66-blue-swallow">Etsy</a>.</i></td></tr>
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The Blue Swallow opened in the early 1940s. It is arranged in a cozy L-shaped court with 14 rooms complete with garages. In the 1950s, it was bought by Lillian Redman, who modernized the rooms with TV and 'refrigerated air' and added the large neon sign. Redman and her husband became known for their hospitality and generosity. By the end of the 1960s, the new I-40 diverted traffic away from the old highway and many of the businesses that had catered to the motorists disappeared. The Blue Swallow held on though, and Redman operated it for nearly 40 years. In <a href="http://blueswallowmotel.com/history-2/">her words</a>, "When Route 66 was closed to the majority of traffic and the other highway came in, I felt just like I had lost an old friend. But some of us stuck it out and are still here on Route 66." True to Ms. Redman's spirit, the Blue Swallow is still open for business today. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsezrFSTTgcihv85-i_SJzkfIcsecIiJ_RNa_uTgh-JZGfdwlTKHmfMY99CwYzrnX-M6UCj_Y5zkoRxwMnnS-YyAyLLx1_H8uzjuHqz6cbQGrz_ocX_hMOeHN8SYMNhzNKLWg83OZAJz1/s1600/rte66a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsezrFSTTgcihv85-i_SJzkfIcsecIiJ_RNa_uTgh-JZGfdwlTKHmfMY99CwYzrnX-M6UCj_Y5zkoRxwMnnS-YyAyLLx1_H8uzjuHqz6cbQGrz_ocX_hMOeHN8SYMNhzNKLWg83OZAJz1/s400/rte66a.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The drawing shows the Blue Swallow's amazing neon sign, done in colored pencil and
acrylic on black paper. The Route US 66 shield is on the pavement out
front. It is mounted on cardstock cut with an old photo
trimmer. I had fun making this one, and now I really need another visit
to New Mexico!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-53081239465963855252015-10-09T06:02:00.000-07:002015-10-09T06:02:16.868-07:003 October Festival<h2>
Leiden, Netherlands </h2>
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Last weekend the city of Leiden was filled with people (and bicycles, as suitable for a Dutch festival) to celebrate the 3rd of October. The 3rd marks the anniversary of the end of the Siege of Leiden by the Spanish in 1573 and 74, during the Eighty Years' War. For months the citizens starved as their supplies were cut off. The leader of the Dutch rebellion against Spain, Prince William of Orange, encouraged the city to hold out and formed a plan involving breaching the dikes and flooding the areas around Leiden. This would allow him to move his ships against the besiegers. However, this took much longer than he had hoped, and, though successful in pushing back the Spanish, many people within the city had already perished. For the survivors, Prince William's men brought herring and white bread.<br />
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Every year the festival commemorates Leiden's sacrifices and bravery during this siege. Herring and white bread is served for free, and many celebrations are planned around the city. We rode into the city to check things out, but we found our way blocked by people and bicycles.<br />
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The sound of approaching bagpipes drew our interest, and we realized there were marching bands and decorated floats passing through the crowd. We had stumbled upon one of the parades!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eHoWFFXHoEUYy202eTMxUrGW6HUgcMbMC9QurHCfQW7Fx7eIl1nYXxt_2NcdsiKoVsIXLNwwQGDUgfbIst7VuLdXvo-eLkqgHXdPaSnuZS7eHUTk9vT5GeLZJ9BqMbiv6M4XdWlYzhYo/s1600/P1060900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eHoWFFXHoEUYy202eTMxUrGW6HUgcMbMC9QurHCfQW7Fx7eIl1nYXxt_2NcdsiKoVsIXLNwwQGDUgfbIst7VuLdXvo-eLkqgHXdPaSnuZS7eHUTk9vT5GeLZJ9BqMbiv6M4XdWlYzhYo/s400/P1060900.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A young DJ shares some beats.</td></tr>
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The parade featured different themes, such as countries, music and dancing, and literature. Local groups and clubs also contributed floats. During the course of the parade we spotted dancing Australians, a herd of acrobat wheels, the emperor with his "new clothes," and some sort of swimming group who didn't let the lack of water stop them from showing off their synchronized performance skills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFca-5fXNOgXKjisKPy3LP9PyIqKYDffpoah2pg6mctBpOshiNn5ruFrAIKQBlXPG0LID7UxWewKWTNyM2-HRkj3m5C_qsWwkbyw8kUVlEHHtA-iWSM5wyUUnRGMRVvqWibRn03xuD8jY/s1600/P1060902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFca-5fXNOgXKjisKPy3LP9PyIqKYDffpoah2pg6mctBpOshiNn5ruFrAIKQBlXPG0LID7UxWewKWTNyM2-HRkj3m5C_qsWwkbyw8kUVlEHHtA-iWSM5wyUUnRGMRVvqWibRn03xuD8jY/s400/P1060902.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All dressed up with somewhere to go!</td></tr>
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After the parade we took a walk around the city to see what else was going on. Most of the business were closed because everyone was out and about taking part in the celebration. There was a fair with rides, a market, and at the end of the day a fireworks show.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0eWunE74114xu-55rzLvJntjm9iJbkX0BL7iCVpjTeNewv3f673-arP9ZXOcg8JOy4onJraVhtJdibfEmoZ69hKDQSTBV8KinhQNVd1ljgjj1G8LhrufGhyphenhyphenX7yaajjo4Zp8_OTcpdife/s1600/P1060905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_0eWunE74114xu-55rzLvJntjm9iJbkX0BL7iCVpjTeNewv3f673-arP9ZXOcg8JOy4onJraVhtJdibfEmoZ69hKDQSTBV8KinhQNVd1ljgjj1G8LhrufGhyphenhyphenX7yaajjo4Zp8_OTcpdife/s400/P1060905.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City hall.</td></tr>
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Many houses proudly displayed their city flags, showing the red and white keys that represent Leiden.<br />
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And every street we walked down was lined with bikes! <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0Leiden, Netherlands52.1601144 4.497009700000035152.0821724 4.3356482000000351 52.2380564 4.658371200000035tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-48002109659915547922015-09-10T08:30:00.000-07:002015-09-10T08:30:11.517-07:00Green Bedjacket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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...and another one done! Again, cotton yarn with sythetic fringe. However, there is a little added something special--beautiful Czech glass buttons!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-61146040156486307792015-08-27T05:10:00.001-07:002015-08-27T05:10:48.151-07:00Sleeve-y Bedjacket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This 1930s jacket has some serious sleeves. There's as much yarn in the sleeves as it took for the entire rest of the jacket. <br />
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I decided if I was going to spend so much time making sleeves, I might
as well have some extra fun and add contrasting lining and a bit of
embroidery that was not part of the original pattern. <br />
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It's made with vintage linen boucle yarn and finished with a 1930s/40s ribbon.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-45910122585010769582015-08-20T04:33:00.002-07:002015-08-20T04:36:35.340-07:00Burgers' Zoo<h2>
Arnhem, Netherlands </h2>
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My Dutchman took me to visit Burgers' Zoo for my birthday. The zoo is surrounded by the <a href="http://playmeahappysong.blogspot.nl/2015/03/hoge-veluwe-national-park.html">Hoge Veluwe National Park</a> so it's a great area to explore when you need a break from the city. The zoo itself is pretty big and you can spend an entire day walking through. Besides receiving a million and a half visitors each year, Burgers prides itself on its conservation work. It participates in breeding programs for endangered and threatened species under the "European Endangered Species Program," for which it coordinates the programs for Blue Duikers and the King Vulture.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue Duiker</i></td></tr>
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The zoo is arranged by habitat and themes. The first section is the original "Dierenpark" which has many of the classic zoo animals, such as the feisty penguins who dominate the entrance with their honking. <br />
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Visitors can also observe a variety of primates going about their everyday business, which is better than reality TV. This little guy found himself a peaceful nook where he could properly contemplate lunch... <br />
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...while the chimps in the next exhibit watched a heated argument
between two of their members. The chimpanzees have a bit of attitude as
you can see in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_zw8h4epQM">this video</a> from last spring when the zoo attempted to film them with a drone.<br />
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"Rimba" portrays a Southeast Asian rainforest, where we found some sun bears hanging out.<br />
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Not so much a fan of the sun, the water monitor preferred to chill by his pool.<br />
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"Desert" is where I found some familiar faces from my time in the southwest US. This habitat features plants and species from the Sonoran Desert. The bighorn sheep looked to have several new members in their herd.<br />
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The peccary like to eat prickly pear fruit, but, unlike some of the unsuspecting tourists I met when I worked in Texas, they know to strip the skin first.<br />
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For a completely different experience from the desert, follow the path to Burgers' rainforest in their "Bush" exhibit. Here you will find yourself surrounded by lush tropical plants with colorful flowers.<br />
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Next is the "Ocean," arranged from tidepools to deep water. Visitors can admire a beautiful coral reef with colorful tropical fish. Also stop to watch the sharks circling a shipwreck.<br />
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The "Safari" is a raised boardwalk where you can take a stroll past many African animals.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The grass is always greener...</i></td></tr>
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A cozy little mangrove swamp is tucked in the northern section of the zoo. If you have sharp eyes, you can spot many varieties of birds nestled in the trees.<br />
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On our way out, we passed the meerkats. According to the exhibit, meerkats divide up tasks and everyone has a job to do. It seemed to be this guy's job to keep an eye on the tourists. Who was watching who?<br />
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Learn more on their <a href="http://www.burgerszoo.com/">website</a>!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0Burgers' Zoo, Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem, Netherlands52.010244500000013 5.901445700000067526.488210000000013 -35.407148299999932 77.532279000000017 47.210039700000067tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-83865629626585397562015-07-29T04:41:00.002-07:002015-07-29T04:41:33.244-07:00Glacier National Park of Canada<h3>
Tour Canada: British Columbia</h3>
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We did a loop through southern Alberta and British Columbia, beginning with Banff National Park. I will confess, I didn't much enjoy the tourist trap aspect of Banff and we moved on pretty quickly. It was a relief to come to Glacier National Park (not to be confused with Montana's Glacier NP), which had both beautiful scenery and less crowds.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The scenery includes dramatic waterfalls flowing down mountain-sides.</i></td></tr>
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One of the rangers described Glacier as the "forgotten" national park. Parks such as Banff began drawing crowds with development by the railroads and the construction of famous hotels such as Chateau Lake Louise and Banff Springs Hotel to receive the tourists coming by train. These hotels and other tourist services are still thriving for current visitors to enjoy.<br />
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Glacier began in much the same way, but in contrast to the continual development of other parks, Glacier had lost its rail service and grand hotel by the mid-1920s. The park is located at Rogers Pass, the original route the Canadian Pacific Railway Company used to cross the Columbia Mountains. Near the summit the railroad built Glacier House, a place for passengers to stop for a hot meal, warm bed, and to stretch their legs with a guided hike towards Illecillewaet Glacier. However, the pass was an ongoing struggle against avalanches that buried the tracks. Finally, in March of 1910, a tragedy occurred: 58 men who were clearing the tracks of an avalanche were struck by a second slide. There was only one survivor.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFciyRCe1aBf8aEM-cQ4I85H-43aULKLQDM5PWfCtAT2LDN82mnO4rhjcQ3nvKZZXaVO8eS_2I4aKAD23luE7R2AXB2iJJOXlkZId2U2IcipWM4DLfp0pHkVVTrJmEAuWxkdsWCGZ_K8P/s1600/po09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFciyRCe1aBf8aEM-cQ4I85H-43aULKLQDM5PWfCtAT2LDN82mnO4rhjcQ3nvKZZXaVO8eS_2I4aKAD23luE7R2AXB2iJJOXlkZId2U2IcipWM4DLfp0pHkVVTrJmEAuWxkdsWCGZ_K8P/s400/po09.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Image courtesy </i><a href="http://members.kos.net/sdgagnon/sitemap.html">Rolly Martin Country</a></td></tr>
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Canadian Pacific finally made up it's mind to abandon the surface route over Roger's Pass and instead dug a tunnel under the mountains. With this by-pass, Glacier House faded and in 1925 closed its doors forever.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A few trestles still stand from the railroad.</i></td></tr>
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The park was pretty quiet until the 1960s, when the Trans-Canada Highway was completed over Roger's Pass. People began visiting the park again to find the ruins of Glacier House reclaimed by nature. Today there is a short interpretive loop to explore a few remaining basements and foundations. However, the tourist industry never returned to the park and as a result, visitors today have many opportunities to enjoy the peaceful natural beauty of the area.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>All that remains of the Glacier House.</i></td></tr>
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We decided to explore a few of the park's trails. We particularly enjoyed the Asulkan Valley. The hike is rated as "moderate" but it would be more accurate to say the trail starts off with an easy walk along a stream and ends with a strenuous climb up glacial moraine. The distance one-way is just under 7km (4.3 miles) with an 869m (2,851 ft) elevation gain.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A pleasant stroll along the stream.</i></td></tr>
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The stream meanders through forests and alpine meadows dotted by wildflowers and busy butterflies. Rugged peaks provide a dramatic backdrop.<br />
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As you start to climb you can look back for a view of the valley towards Roger's Pass. After about 4km the trail steepens significantly and you ascend towards the snowy peaks.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>View towards Roger's Pass.</i></td></tr>
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At the end of the trail you find yourself facing the Asulkan Glacier. There is also a cabin here that can be reserved.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Asulkan Glacier.</i></td></tr>
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The vegetation is sparse on top, but a few determined wildflowers hold on in the steady wind.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Wildflowers peek out between the rocks.</i></td></tr>
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The next day we stopped at the Roger's Pass Visitor Center and tried to spot where we climbed. We could just make it out in the distance!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Right about there...</i></td></tr>
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<h4>
THE FACTS</h4>
<i>Location: East of Revelstoke, BC</i><br />
<i><a href="http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/glacier/index.aspx">Website</a></i><br />
<i>Entrance Fee: </i>You must purchase a National Parks Pass from the Roger's Pass Visitor Center or one of the Ranger Huts found in the park.<br />
<i>Season: </i>Day use areas and trails open from snow-melt (June/July) to first snow (Oct). Ski season November-April; some areas are restricted during winter and require a special permit due to avalanche control.<i> </i><br />
<i>Accommodations:</i> Camping is available in the park, as well as a few back-country cabins. Hotels are located in Revelstoke, about an hour west of the visitor center.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com1Glacier National Park of Canada, Revelstoke, BC, Canada51.335289 -117.5297595000000125.813254500000003 -158.8383535 76.8573235 -76.221165500000012tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-8506438341890142562015-07-27T07:40:00.000-07:002015-07-27T07:40:37.297-07:001930s Cape in Silver and Turquoise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfVVFnOKIUqomCZd-ZvVq6TP6gduXWYfPULCKMi8UILN9qO1zR8UltIQrTyXsSzBx_r8sV1930IZjszOX0i64Gr4T38bDzcQn0BEama0MAtoyFpk3LhzWVWdItkh1dzrcy0reUfvoA8-H/s1600/Cape.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjfVVFnOKIUqomCZd-ZvVq6TP6gduXWYfPULCKMi8UILN9qO1zR8UltIQrTyXsSzBx_r8sV1930IZjszOX0i64Gr4T38bDzcQn0BEama0MAtoyFpk3LhzWVWdItkh1dzrcy0reUfvoA8-H/s400/Cape.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've knitted another 1930s bed-jacket. This one is a simple, light weight cape with an arrowhead shaped lace pattern and basket-weave-y trim. It's made with cotton yarn and is finished with a vintage ribbon from the same period. I'm debating whether to extend the ribbon around the neck to give it some structure and a more snug fit, or to leave it as it is for a light and flowing feel.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-85578135882952810932015-07-23T05:09:00.001-07:002015-07-23T05:09:37.839-07:00Indulge in a Little Fantasy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been finding some great fantasy themed ACEO artwork on Etsy and wanted to share the recent additions to my collection. The first one is titled "Golden Shadow" and comes from Switzerland! It is beautifully done in watercolor. I really like the perspective, as if we are silently and powerlessly watching the scene unfold from a not-so-distant mountain. The artist is Natalia Demakova of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ElfsArt">Elf'sArt</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5Ijgp5XQ4lRIEZkoVxdJckrjqE0akwpAp_RWJimR8zcLtVstucj_aN0b6oXSvmz4-zf7Eexf6r1Cub-I5A0lzZIEMqU5ZgMId9IDsTPbUZ7QddOmo_RnKu8KLyLNLiwrMDa-ITQ4u33B/s1600/fantasy4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC5Ijgp5XQ4lRIEZkoVxdJckrjqE0akwpAp_RWJimR8zcLtVstucj_aN0b6oXSvmz4-zf7Eexf6r1Cub-I5A0lzZIEMqU5ZgMId9IDsTPbUZ7QddOmo_RnKu8KLyLNLiwrMDa-ITQ4u33B/s400/fantasy4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Next is a very unique encaustic wax landscape titled "Rainbow Valley 15." The artist is Carole Boyer, from England. I love how her landscapes inspire the imagination--what sort of world is this and who lives in it? Take a look at her shop at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CaroleBoyerArt">CaroleBoyerArt</a>.<br />
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Finally, this pair of serpents come from the United States. Jessi Bencloski uses scratchboard to create her fantastic creatures. I wouldn't want to be on the wrong end of that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amphiptere">amphiptere</a>'s fangs! The other guy doesn't look so mean though, he looks old and wise and I feel like he'd at least offer a cup of tea before he eats me. The photo doesn't do justice for the depth she achieves through her use of light, dark, and color. You can find more of her scratchboard work, as well as the other mediums she is skilled with, on her website <a href="http://benwhoski.com/wordpress/art-and-illustration/">Benwhoski</a>.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-84931082825612315392015-06-13T03:30:00.001-07:002015-06-13T03:30:51.006-07:00The 1930s in Lilac<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I think it's time to bring back bedjackets. They not only keep your shoulders warm when you are hanging out on the couch watching TV in your PJs or sitting in bed reading, they make you feel elegant while doing it! I've been collecting vintage bedjacket patterns, and I just finished my first one. This design is from the 1930s and features great '30s style with lace trimed in (synthetic) fur. I knitted this in cotton with the furry trim created with crochet. The ribbon is vintage from the 1940s.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-23437780423610749832015-06-05T01:21:00.000-07:002015-06-05T01:21:51.069-07:00Spring Flowers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is the last month of spring! Spring is a great time to see the Netherlands and experience everything in bloom. Here are some photos from spring, starting from the first crocuses at the end of winter...<br />
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...and then the daffodils and narcissus.<br />
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From there it's a progressions of bulbs, shrubs, and trees in bright colors and sweet aromas.<br />
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Don't forget to look up!<br />
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Finally, the roses make their appearance.<br />
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I seem to have forgotten something... <br />
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Can't leave out tulips!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0Netherlands52.132633 5.291265999999950549.638064 0.12769199999995084 54.627202 10.454839999999951tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-19277669460349528822015-05-28T00:27:00.000-07:002015-05-28T00:27:37.087-07:00Reading Window<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzRYUqRtd5mrYo79H0zbZPKO2R18rDFNVqm0hCiTUqfLmkHlbYowQSaRwbTA4ZfFmvSmO3do3UAEy1JVvoj2RgiZWSQGPmA4qmhq8BJjNsitwirgi7LT55hN-idozGMik1JjF3Qdh1U_ba/s1600/reading.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzRYUqRtd5mrYo79H0zbZPKO2R18rDFNVqm0hCiTUqfLmkHlbYowQSaRwbTA4ZfFmvSmO3do3UAEy1JVvoj2RgiZWSQGPmA4qmhq8BJjNsitwirgi7LT55hN-idozGMik1JjF3Qdh1U_ba/s640/reading.JPG" width="545" /></a></div>
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Another graphite sketch. This one is based on a photo taken by H. Armstrong Roberts in 1930. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-77515913086278651532015-05-22T06:28:00.000-07:002015-05-22T06:28:36.869-07:00Window Light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I bought some new graphite pencils from Prismacolor. They are called Ebony Sketching Pencils and are advertised as jet black and extra smooth. I made this sketch to try them out. They do seem pretty smooth, and I'm satisfied with the result.<br />
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This sketch is based on a 1910 photo taken at a Paris design house called Callot Soeurs.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-69243514968806507752015-05-15T05:14:00.000-07:002015-05-15T05:14:58.664-07:00Hortus botanicus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Leiden, Netherlands </h2>
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The Hortus botanicaus in Leiden is celebrating 425 years. Connected to the University of Leiden, the botanical gardens have spent the last four and a quarter centuries building and caring for an impressive collection of plants from around the world. During the Dutch golden age, many specimens collected by sailing expeditions as they explored the far corners of the globe ended up here. This included the exotic tulip bulb. Now, the gardens play a role in cultivating some of the rare and endangered species that are disappearing in the wild. <br />
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The outdoor gardens can be explored by walking the many winding paths. Follow the "systematic garden" to learn about the relationships between particular plants, or take in the colors and fragrances found in the rose garden. The Japanese Garden offers a peaceful bench where you can enjoy a beautiful collection of trees and shrubs from Japan. Continue on to follow a small woodland stream lined with wildflowers.<br />
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As you stroll through the grounds, you will see a beautiful collection of trees that have been growing for 100-400 years. <br />
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Be sure to check out the greenhouses to find tropical plants and other heat-loving species.<br />
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There are over 6000 types of orchids being studied here, and the
collection is still growing as newly discovered species are added.<br />
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Carnivorous plants grow in soil that is poor in nutrients, so they eat insects instead! These plants have developed various methods to attract their prey. Some use sticky droplets to ensnare unsuspecting flies.<br />
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Others catch insects in slippery pitchers. Once something slides in, there is no climbing out...<br />
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The Victoria amazonica is a giant water lily that grows in rivers feeding into the Amazon. Discovered in the 1850s, the university began cultivating it here shortly afterwards. The leaves are big enough to hold a small child. Each flower blooms for two days; the first day it is white with a fruity aroma to attract pollinating beetles, while the second day it is pink with no smell.<br />
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The Jade vine comes from the Phillipines. It relies on bats for pollination. It is considered to be a threatened species due to loss of habitat and pollinators, which is a shame because the large hanging bunches of jade green flowers are absolutely stunning.<br />
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There is also a collection of "prehistoric plants" scattered around, consisting of some of the oldest plant forms such as ginkgo, cycads, horsetails, and ferns.<br />
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Visiting the garden in spring or early summer is a special treat with the shear number of flowers blooming. While Keukenhof (near Lisse) is famous with the tourists who want to see carefully groomed tulip gardens, Hortus botanicus offers a more peaceful and intimate setting to discover an incredible variety of plants that range from beautiful to strange.<br />
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<a href="http://www.hortusleiden.nl/index.php/english/"></a><br />
Hortus botanicus Leiden, Rapenburg 73, 2311 GJ Leiden<br />
Open year round. Admission charged<br />
Learn More: <a href="http://www.hortusleiden.nl/index.php/english/">Website</a> <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0Hortus botanicus Leiden, Rapenburg 73, 2311 GJ Leiden, Netherlands52.1559582 4.483930500000042252.1510872 4.4738455000000421 52.1608292 4.4940155000000424tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-79017888176485234382015-05-06T02:31:00.000-07:002015-05-06T02:31:21.910-07:00The 4th and 5th of MayThe 4th and 5th of May are <i>Dodenherdenking </i>(Remembrance Day) and <span lang="nl"><i>Bevrijdingsdag</i> </span><span lang="nl"><span lang="nl"><i>(</i></span>Liberation Day) here in the Netherlands. </span>I thought it was past time for me to write an article about this, but the weather ended up being so stormy that I didn't go out after all so I don't have any photos from this year. Instead, I'll just tell you what it's all about with the promise to get some good pictures next year.<br />
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Observance of these two days began after World War II. Remembrance Day was set aside to remember all the victims of war, at first focusing on the Second World War but growing to encompass all victims in the subsequent decades. While various ceremonies take place around the country, the biggest one occurs in the evening in Amsterdam's Dam Square. A large crowd gathers around the square, and if you aren't there in person there's a good chance you are watching it on <a href="http://www.npo.nl/nos-nationale-herdenking-2015/04-05-2015/15act0504Herdenking3">television</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fb/Dam_Square._National_Monument.JPG/450px-Dam_Square._National_Monument.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fb/Dam_Square._National_Monument.JPG/450px-Dam_Square._National_Monument.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dam Square on a normal day.<br /><i> Photo: Wikipedia.org</i></span></td></tr>
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The ceremony is centered around the National Monument, a towering white pillar that was constructed in the 1950s to remember WWII. Within the monument are urns filled with soil gathered from execution grounds in each of the Dutch provinces. It is here that the King and Queen start the ceremony by laying flowered wreaths. At 8 PM, Dam Square, along with the rest of the Netherlands, falls silent for 2 minutes. Even trains, planes, and other traffic are scheduled so their departures/arrivals do not interrupt these 2 minutes.<br />
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The moment of silence is broken by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIg9VaMBi9o"><i>Wilhelmus</i></a><span id="goog_1548827129"></span><span id="goog_1548827130"></span><span id="goog_1548827121"></span><span id="goog_1548827122"></span>, the Dutch national anthem. The ceremony moves forward with a student reading his or her poem written in honor of the event. More wreaths are laid by veterans, representatives of the armed
forces, and finally government officials. Each wreath represents
different groups of people who have been victims of war and violence,
both soldiers and civilians. The last flowers are left by a long line of local school kids who file around the pillar.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rotterdam 2013</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rotterdam 2013</td></tr>
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After this solemn remembrance, the 5th of May is time to celebrate freedom! The Liberation flame is lit at midnight, and from this flame torches are lit and carried throughout the rest of the country. That day, people all over the Netherlands enjoy outdoor concerts in commemoration of Holland's liberation on May 5th, 1945 by Canadian and other Allied forces. Though there are events held each year, it is only an official holiday every 5 years. Large cities such as Rotterdam host huge festivals with popular musicians, while smaller communities organize their own musical performances, local history displays, and fireworks.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-32858015705671746002015-04-30T03:49:00.000-07:002015-04-30T03:49:15.230-07:00A Ghost in Antwerp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This old pair of sunglasses were on their way to the trash when I swiped them for an art project. They reminded me of simple wire rimmed frames from the early 20th century (they're not really that old, so I didn't care if I messed them up!) I thought it would be neat if you could pick up a pair of old glasses and watch a recording of what had been seen through them. I considered inventing such a system, but worried it could get rather creepy so instead I decided to paint a semi-hypothetical 1900s scene to see through these not-quite-1900s glasses.<br />
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The right lens shows Antwerp Central Station, which is one of the most stunning train stations I've visited. It was finished in 1905 and the architecture features a dome on top. A clock framed by beautiful arched windows (which you can see in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/223726056/antwerp-belgium-train-station-clock?ref=shop_home_active_2">this photo</a> from my Etsy shop) dominates the interior.<br />
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In the left lens is Hungarian operetta singer Sari Petrass as she would have looked if she had been on her way to an evening performance in the city before WWI. In reality, she didn't arrive in Antwerp until 1930, when the car she was riding in attempted to board a ferry and instead crashed into the river, where she drowned.<br />
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The painting is made with egg tempera, and each lens measures only 4.5cm (1.75") across.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-27558834448070676322015-04-10T02:22:00.000-07:002015-04-10T02:22:40.309-07:00Easter PaasstolLast weekend was Easter, and this year my Dutchman and I tried to partake of more Dutch traditions than just enjoying the "Second Easter" Monday off (Second Easter being an additional holiday intended to give people the chance to visit other family who you didn't see on Easter Sunday). He decided to try his hand at <i>Paasstol</i>. This turned out to be a spiced raisin bread filled with almond paste. I helped him make the paste from scratch with fresh almonds and lemon rind. The raisins are sometimes soaked in rum, but not having any on hand we went with<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Kahlúa</span></span></span> instead (ok, not so traditional, but our own special twist). The result was, as the Dutch say, lekker! The bread is sweet with the raisins mixed in and has a light undertone of cinnamon. This is topped with a flaky crust and filled with a divine combination of buttery almond and lemon. It goes wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Here's the loaf we made.</i></td></tr>
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Are you salivating yet? If you're into baking check out <a href="http://stefangourmet.com/2012/04/08/dutch-easter-bread-paasstol/">this recipe</a> on <i>Stefan's Gourmet Blog.</i> We didn't use this exact recipe, but it is pretty similar and looks just as tasty.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-84091665106057481302015-03-31T04:43:00.000-07:002015-03-31T04:43:18.917-07:00Hoge Veluwe National Park<h2>
Gelderland, Netherlands </h2>
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The Netherlands has plenty of beautiful cities to visit, but for those who need a break from Amsterdam, the Hoge Veluwe National Park makes a great day trip. The Dutch have put their own twist on the National Park idea by adding bicycles and Vincent van Gogh to the experience, creating a unique mix of nature and culture.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Biking is a great way to see the park.</i></td></tr>
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Located in the province of Gelderland, this is a nice way to explore the inland area of the Netherlands. While you can drive into the park, I prefer to park at the entrance and continue in Dutch fashion by bicycle. White bikes are available for visitors to use free of charge. I started at the Otterlo entrance, where you can choose to ride (or walk if you prefer) either a short loop or a longer one around the northern part of the park. The path is paved, mostly flat, and well marked with signs to point you towards park attractions. It wanders through sand-dunes, both coniferous and deciduous forests, and grasslands dotted by swampy ponds. You can stop and rest at one of the benches to listen to the many bird songs. My favorite was the cuckoo!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Swampy areas can be good for wildlife viewing.</i></td></tr>
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If you take a longer ride, you can check out some of the wildlife viewing meadows that are spread around the park. Bring some binoculars and see who's out and about. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSaX9tjLcxAyKg5wJf1hfKIBsZbeJwabAXwN7_7f_w_EWwkCN6aiBotpyXxzWkvcfkzq-Eug8YUWQtCNvQqDRkQK0RzmaSJpTwZV6zu1IzRjqIfbT_XYjI93m77uqG1NTV3iHN2zqOiGL/s1600/hvsand.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzSaX9tjLcxAyKg5wJf1hfKIBsZbeJwabAXwN7_7f_w_EWwkCN6aiBotpyXxzWkvcfkzq-Eug8YUWQtCNvQqDRkQK0RzmaSJpTwZV6zu1IzRjqIfbT_XYjI93m77uqG1NTV3iHN2zqOiGL/s1600/hvsand.JPG" height="206" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Approaching some small sand dunes.</i></td></tr>
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As you explore, you will come across several buildings of note. In the north is St Hubertus Hunting Lodge, completed in 1920 and known for its distinctive tower. The lodge is a reminder of the park's origins as a hunting ground owned by Anton Kröller and his wife Helene Kröller-Müller. The inside is viewable by tour and tickets can be bought at the Hoge Veluwe Visitor's Center, which also has interpretive displays and a gift shop.<br />
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Another worthwhile stop is the Kröller-Müller Museum. This is the legacy of Helene Kröller-Müller who collected thousands of works of art during the period of 1907-1922. While there are many famous artists represented, it is most noted for being the second largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's work. Since they boast such a large and interesting collection of art, the Kröller-Müller Museum is worth a separate trip if you don't want to be rushed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8_cfBWfHLAEZgY5lUOtAihRKtLE9gUFjENZiIujXFRAxv_BC-38Op0fMVL_i9mXBV5cIhOAMtm6IsFu2GPqJDnNEIy-lK2PXavweoTk6qAy9sR6ovDbTDJDTfz52INmN6REl2cXAV3Fj/s1600/457px-Van_Gogh_-_Terrasse_des_Caf%C3%A9s_an_der_Place_du_Forum_in_Arles_am_Abend1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8_cfBWfHLAEZgY5lUOtAihRKtLE9gUFjENZiIujXFRAxv_BC-38Op0fMVL_i9mXBV5cIhOAMtm6IsFu2GPqJDnNEIy-lK2PXavweoTk6qAy9sR6ovDbTDJDTfz52INmN6REl2cXAV3Fj/s1600/457px-Van_Gogh_-_Terrasse_des_Caf%C3%A9s_an_der_Place_du_Forum_in_Arles_am_Abend1.jpeg" height="320" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>van Gogh at the Kröller-Müller.</i> <br />
<i>(image <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Van_Gogh_-_Terrasse_des_Caf%C3%A9s_an_der_Place_du_Forum_in_Arles_am_Abend1.jpeg">Wikipedia)</a></i> </td></tr>
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I've visited during the winter and spring. The park was pretty quiet, and the weather was chilly with occasional rain showers so I was glad I threw in a sweatshirt, jacket, and gloves. I imagine that the summer is warmer but much busier.<br />
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To learn more about the park, visit their website.<br />
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<a href="https://www.hogeveluwe.nl/en">Hoge Veluwe Website</a><br />
<a href="http://krollermuller.nl/bezoek">Kröller-Müller Museum Website</a><br />
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The run-down:<br />
<ul>
<li>Open year-round </li>
<li>Food available on-site</li>
<li>Admission and parking charged</li>
<li>Bus service from Apeldoorn and Ede-Wageningen train stations. Use the Dutch <a href="http://9292.nl/en#">transit planner</a> to figure out how to get there.</li>
<li>Camping available inside the park, as well as in the small towns nearby</li>
<li>Arnhem and Apeldoorn are the closest large cities, where there are plenty of hotels</li>
<li>Disabled visitors have several options. There are paths suitable for a wheelchair, and special bicycles can also be reserved. With a disabled badge, the car can be brought into the park free of charge. Parking is available near the museums, which also offer wheelchairs to use within the buildings. Further information is on the website.</li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0Hoge Veluwe National Park, Netherlands52.0786694 5.832455799999934251.9225324 5.5097322999999339 52.234806400000004 6.1551792999999346tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-26521463885038323852015-01-08T03:17:00.000-08:002015-01-08T03:17:17.694-08:00Gelukkig NieuwjaarHey, are we already a week into 2015? I've been so busy scraping off wallpaper I didn't even notice!<br />
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The Dutch kicked off the new year with quite a bang--actually, a whole day of nearly non-stop bangs. I have never seen so many fireworks! Once my nerves adjusted to the constant noise, I could begin to appreciate the show.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvOU11rSXCew-_Ajq1tBrv8lHq-H4L9Jklaheg0GIR9Pgp1lUZhvJmjLcy7eooLgK4BAeDNhvXnrBWu9gC-OhthirZtPq8bEhvh1DxbPjW0dEZhHGszPWIXejGNCW-8CM5CyExSIUnBNd/s1600/ny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvOU11rSXCew-_Ajq1tBrv8lHq-H4L9Jklaheg0GIR9Pgp1lUZhvJmjLcy7eooLgK4BAeDNhvXnrBWu9gC-OhthirZtPq8bEhvh1DxbPjW0dEZhHGszPWIXejGNCW-8CM5CyExSIUnBNd/s1600/ny.jpg" height="285" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Oliebol</i></td></tr>
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Those who weren't busy satisfying their inner pyromaniac were standing in line waiting for <i>oliebollen</i>, a traditional New Year's treat of deep fried bread balls with raisins and some powdered sugar sprinkled on top. I made a New Year's Eve run to the market down the street for non-oliebollen related matters and was surprised to discover the normally quiet shopping center blocked by a sea of customers crammed in front of the small bakery. The special olibollen cart set up outside was also doing brisk business. I didn't get a good photo, but fellow blog <i>Life in the Hague</i> shows <a href="http://lifeinthehague.com/2014/12/31/new-years-in-the-hague-or-lines-for-oliebollen/">one</a> of the undoubtedly many lines winding around the city.<br />
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As we approached midnight, I thought that surely the Dutch must be running out of fireworks. I couldn't have been more wrong! At the stroke of midnight everyone doubled, or even tripled, their efforts until the sky was lit up in all directions by flashes of color. Neighbors joined each on the streets to watch the show, while others found an upper story window to share a glass of champagne with a loved one.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFYWWfc-qsAQ9ABycApsPn7NBFcGNMDT2sRF4EkjvjxF8l8Q6bcnU2F1PALcPjhIuDPuncPQWQ1wU88Oh0lbseaUF4-Umr7qlksfVsjUTWX7S1bl-vMy_npCoJVlqzG8O_e22vywJGgrR/s1600/ny2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFYWWfc-qsAQ9ABycApsPn7NBFcGNMDT2sRF4EkjvjxF8l8Q6bcnU2F1PALcPjhIuDPuncPQWQ1wU88Oh0lbseaUF4-Umr7qlksfVsjUTWX7S1bl-vMy_npCoJVlqzG8O_e22vywJGgrR/s1600/ny2.jpg" height="236" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Multiply this view by 360 degrees...</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Red lanterns lazily drifted above the fireworks.</i></td></tr>
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The first hours of 2015 were full of celebration and wonder (if not much sleep). I hope we can keep a little of this spirit with us during whatever this next year brings.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-60422903436863531312014-10-30T10:04:00.000-07:002014-10-30T10:04:19.954-07:00What Does It Say?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHEBzR_6ysGLQpC2ZzalW8sZ1WuvnZc0SSNDMdNhBA_ZTdRO1wTL72BwzONppPbfaFjT0yDKyz8rYbszB-wRtulQ2XS4kb0Zq7G64M90iWFMVmEC4INvtNs8QDxGVHviy9b0W0hrPt8zG/s1600/news.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHEBzR_6ysGLQpC2ZzalW8sZ1WuvnZc0SSNDMdNhBA_ZTdRO1wTL72BwzONppPbfaFjT0yDKyz8rYbszB-wRtulQ2XS4kb0Zq7G64M90iWFMVmEC4INvtNs8QDxGVHviy9b0W0hrPt8zG/s1600/news.JPG" height="400" width="280" /></a></div>
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A letter--but is it good news or bad? Watercolor pencil, acrylic, Sharpie, gold gel pen. 14 x 20 cm.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-92013298154386923042014-10-27T03:53:00.003-07:002014-10-27T03:59:16.953-07:00Herfst en 's-GravenhageThe Hague has the most beautiful trees of any city I've visited. There are many parks and lanes where you can step out of the bustle of city life into a different world. Autumn (Dutch <i>herfst</i>) brings a whole new aspect of color and light as the sun sinks towards winter and the leaves blaze with shades of orange.<br />
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The city has a long association with forest. It's modern name, which is officially <i>'s-Gravenhage</i> but the Dutch usually shorten to <i>Den Haag</i>, is derived from "Des Graven Hage." This means something like <i>The Count's Wood</i> or <i>Hedge</i>, and it was used as a hunting ground for nobility.<br />
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A couple weeks ago I took a short-cut through the <i>Haags Bos</i>. These woods used to be part of a much larger forest which may have been the origin of the name <i>Holland</i>. That forest was referred to as the "Houtland" (wood land), or "Holtland" in old Dutch. (An alternate explanation is the name comes from the "hollow" land in this low-lying country, but I like the idea that <i>Holland</i> is an homage to these beautiful trees!)<br />
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Over the years the trees were cut and the forests shrank into small enclaves, until the "Act of Redemption" was enacted in 1576 to protect the remaining woodland. <br />
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As I walked through the <i>Bos</i>, it was just beginning to show the first signs of Fall. Golden sunrays cut through still green leaves.<br />
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Looking behind a tree, I discovered I was not alone.<br />
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In fact, the woods were full of tiny life easily overlooked by those of us living on a human scale. I stopped to examine this miniature forest within a forest.<br />
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Shortly after my walk the leaves abruptly changed color and drifted off on the <a href="http://www.expatica.com/nl/news/country-news/Storm-causes-some-flooding-but-little-damage_436120.html">not-so-gentle</a> breeze. This photo from a previous year shows how amazing an autumn stroll through the city can be. This lane isn't part of the <i>Bos</i>--it borders the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binnenhof">Binnenhof</a> in the center of the city, but views like this can be found all over.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0The Hague, The Netherlands52.0704978 4.300699900000040551.9143338 3.9779764000000406 52.226661799999995 4.6234234000000409tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-22701002345015836382014-10-27T02:12:00.001-07:002014-10-27T02:17:57.084-07:00Ma'at SilkI'd like to wish a happy anniversary to Maisie of Ma'at Silk who is celebrating her first year on Etsy! Ma'at Silk features artwork made with colorful patterns. Her work on silk is particularly striking and bright. I became acquainted with Maisie through an ACEO trade, where I received this lovely "Mid-winter" pattern (it makes me think of snowberries):<br />
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...in exchange for my "Marilyn" card:<br />
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You can see more Ma'at Silk over at her <a href="http://maatsilkblog.wordpress.com/">blog</a>, where she is holding a special <a href="http://maatsilkblog.wordpress.com/2014/10/24/1-year-anniversary-of-maat-silk-and-giveaway/">giveaway</a>, or visit her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaatSilk">Etsy shop</a> and congratulate her on her first year!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-65797679613749400872014-10-17T04:58:00.000-07:002015-07-29T01:27:28.289-07:00Fort Union Trading Post<h2>
Tour the US: North Dakota / Montana</h2>
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Google Williston, ND, and you will find plenty of headlines about the oil field that has made the area into one big boomtown. Seemingly gone is the quiet life enjoyed on the (formerly) sparsely populated northern plains. However, go 30 miles south-west of Williston and you will find an outpost hanging on to the days of isolated frontier life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQzepZmWwV6XN_ohnxnkzu55o8qdJjwnKR-X9iVNZm2kg63NgKx9zvCLMOdRQRhJEvGiiZYFcDdTR2wgvPXu8ReOI-L1LRjDM1qOeAeySkzT_ZSUfblT8fJUdKVP5sez-V4UZYePMg77o/s1600/06C2CBB5-155D-4519-3EF8DBD6B049BD4B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQzepZmWwV6XN_ohnxnkzu55o8qdJjwnKR-X9iVNZm2kg63NgKx9zvCLMOdRQRhJEvGiiZYFcDdTR2wgvPXu8ReOI-L1LRjDM1qOeAeySkzT_ZSUfblT8fJUdKVP5sez-V4UZYePMg77o/s1600/06C2CBB5-155D-4519-3EF8DBD6B049BD4B.jpg" height="158" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fort Union. <i>NPS Photo</i></td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site(not to be confused with the Fort Union military post in New Mexico) is perched on a grassy bank overlooking the Missouri River. As you approach on Highway 1804 (named after the year the Lewis and Clark expedition passed nearby), the white walls of the post shine brightly in the distance.<br />
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Despite the sturdy walls, the post served as a peaceful commercial trading point with local tribes such as the Assiniboine. Built in 1828 by the American Fur Company (founded by America's first multi-millionaire, John Jacob Astor), it represents the influence of the fur trade on the American west. Beaver, buffalo, and other pelts were traded for manufactured goods. The heated stones traditionally used to warm water, and which the name "Assiniboine" refers to, gave way to metal cooking pots.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bb/George_Catlin_-_Fort_Union%2C_Mouth_of_the_Yellowstone_River%2C_2000_Miles_above_St._Louis_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bb/George_Catlin_-_Fort_Union%2C_Mouth_of_the_Yellowstone_River%2C_2000_Miles_above_St._Louis_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">George Catlin, <span class="fn"><i>Fort Union, Mouth of the Yellowstone River, <br />2000 Miles above St. Louis, </i>1832; </span>via <a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:George_Catlin_-_Fort_Union,_Mouth_of_the_Yellowstone_River,_2000_Miles_above_St._Louis_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg">WIKIMEDIA COMMONS</a>.</span></td></tr>
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Fort Union also hosted American and European travellers, including artists and scientists such as <a href="http://www.audubon.org/john-james-audubon">John James Audubon,</a> <a href="http://www.georgecatlin.org/">George Catlin</a>, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karl_Bodmer">Karl Bodmer</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.nypl.org/index.php?id=479857&t=w" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://images.nypl.org/index.php?id=479857&t=w" height="325" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karl Bodmer, <i>Magic pile erected by the Assiniboin Indians</i>, 1830s; via <a href="http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/dgkeysearchdetail.cfm?trg=1&strucID=236521&imageID=479857&total=19330&num=0&word=United%20States&s=3&notword=&d=&c=&f=2&k=0&lWord=&lField=&sScope=&sLevel=&sLabel=&imgs=20&pos=15&e=w">NYPL</a>.
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While the original structure was disassembled and the materials used in the construction of nearby Fort Buford, built by the military in the mid-1860s, archaeological surveys and drawings left by artists (in particular <a href="http://www.mtmen.org/mtman/images/kurz/">Rudolph Friederich Kurz</a>) have allowed the park to reconstruct part of Fort Union so visitors can experience a taste of the frontier fur trade.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://webspace.webring.com/people/qs/silentmagician/photography/Tepees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://webspace.webring.com/people/qs/silentmagician/photography/Tepees.jpg" height="283" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tipi encampment just outside the fort.</td></tr>
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Highlights</h3>
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--Trade House</h4>
Entering through the large red gates that are the main entrance to the fort, the first building visitors encounter is the Trade House. Here you are greeted by a large fireplace, the smell of coffee brewing over the fire beckoning you in. Rangers dressed in period clothing demonstrate historic skills, such as finger-weaving, beading, or flint and steel fire starting. The Trade House, true to its name, features authentically reproduced merchandise that can still be traded for today (if you are short of buffalo pelts, they also take greenbacks). The Trade House is open seasonally.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tvJQUcvvMHFVOzdMu7Q0uxaKGxFV-T8hekeat6FUELUh6iRPEZ6jPg5qb5iN48d2Cgwq0D1EML4Zi_llBEmGF6_5AXt8pFqPrKks1ifS6eRFPXfjywc1-usC1_onYWbPTTOwM90FlrI_/s1600/flamesash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tvJQUcvvMHFVOzdMu7Q0uxaKGxFV-T8hekeat6FUELUh6iRPEZ6jPg5qb5iN48d2Cgwq0D1EML4Zi_llBEmGF6_5AXt8pFqPrKks1ifS6eRFPXfjywc1-usC1_onYWbPTTOwM90FlrI_/s1600/flamesash.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fingerwoven sash with glass beads.</td></tr>
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--Rendezvous</h4>
The park holds an annual "Rendezvous" in the spirit of the yearly gathering of fur traders that was referred to by the same name. This is a great chance to see many historic skills demonstrated by the reenactors encamped around the fort. If you've ever wanted to watch a blacksmith work, try tanning a buffalo hide, and listen to fiddle music around the campfire, this is the event for you.<br />
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--Off Season</h4>
The impressive house at the far end of the courtyard is referred to as the Bourgeois House. It was the former
site of the manager's residence. Today you will find a visitor center
and small museum open all year round. Take a few minutes to enjoy the orientation film and warm up on those cold winter days.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJbFPUoh0yW3MyPT55yyZbdYHSMnTDMGIW5pKwGQ4NrD-HXxrhdiwGTQIfxu65qI14lgNufqLtZq5wHSoR3jCcAJnLh_TJbilpIrRyYznQS0R_11nQ6DbgOCzrh7uwENYNOpTzzDyA9tL/s1600/bourgeois_house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJbFPUoh0yW3MyPT55yyZbdYHSMnTDMGIW5pKwGQ4NrD-HXxrhdiwGTQIfxu65qI14lgNufqLtZq5wHSoR3jCcAJnLh_TJbilpIrRyYznQS0R_11nQ6DbgOCzrh7uwENYNOpTzzDyA9tL/s1600/bourgeois_house.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bourgeois House. <i>NPS Photo by Emily Sunblade</i></td></tr>
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--Limited Time or Mobility</h4>
Fort Union is a small site and can be seen in less than an hour if you're in a hurry. The parking lot is a ways away from the visitor center, but visitors who need assistance can request to be picked up and shuttled to the Bourgeois House. Some buildings require a step up to access.<br />
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The Facts</h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Location:</i> North Dakota / Montana border<br />
<i>Website:</i> <a href="http://www.nps.gov/fous">Fort Union Trading Post</a><br />
<i>Entrance Fee:</i> Free! <br />
<i>Season:</i> Park open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years. Some buildings are closed during the winter. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Accommodations:</i> <span style="font-family: inherit;">The closest lodging is in Sidney, MT or Williston, ND. Due to a housing shortage, visitors may want to reserve their hotel room in advance. Primitive camping is available at <a href="http://history.nd.gov/historicsites/buford/">Fort Buford State Historic Site</a> several miles away.</span><br />
<i>Closest Airports</i>: Williston, ND; Sidney, MT</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Please note that the park is on the boundary between the Mountain and Central time zones, but operates in Central time. </span></span></span></div>
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Also, bring mosquito repellent.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com1Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, 15550 North Dakota 1804, Williston, ND 58801, USA48.00016 -104.0414829999999747.97891 -104.08182349999997 48.02141 -104.00114249999997tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2599231023287262124.post-83155027156512239932014-09-25T03:04:00.000-07:002014-09-25T03:04:08.175-07:001950s in a Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://img1.etsystatic.com/040/1/5735312/il_570xN.657999391_fdwn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/040/1/5735312/il_570xN.657999391_fdwn.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Someone gave me a Marilyn Monroe tin for inspiration, and it was sitting on my shelf for several months before I realized it could be used as a 3-D canvas. Considering Ms. Monroe on the front, it was only fitting that anyone who peeks in the box should see a glimpse into her world. <br />
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<a href="https://img0.etsystatic.com/026/0/5735312/il_570xN.657875602_b34j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/026/0/5735312/il_570xN.657875602_b34j.jpg" width="484" /></a></div>
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I don't know what her vanity specifically looked like, but this design
is a composite of period bedrooms I studied, adjusted for the materials I
had on hand. Those materials include patterned papers, aluminum recycled from a beer can, fabric, thread, ink, and pencil.<br />
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See it on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204688161/miniature-diorama-aceo-1950s-vanity-and?ref=shop_home_active_1">Etsy.</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11641678282422817409noreply@blogger.com2