Friday, March 28, 2014

Just do it

There is a lemon blueberry cake baking in my oven. As I was finishing up the mixing, I thought how that Kitchen Aid mixer was doing such a good job fluffing the butter and sugar and scraping the sides.

I pined for one so long but thought of many excuses why I should deprive myself of such an expensive item. Finally, about ten years ago, I was rushing into Kohl's on a mission and passed by the display of Kitchen Aid mixers that had, of course, a great big ON SALE sign. Perhaps it was all those years of desire and not really on impulse, but I grabbed a box, dashed to the front and took it through check out before I could change my mind.

Most of the time since the big purchase, it has been only a nice looking item on my kitchen counter, though, besides not having much free time, I actually had a reason. Paint and metal had chipped off the paddle attachment after only a few uses. A year ago, I got a replacement and now I can cream, blend, and mix away.

All that to say sometimes you just need to go for it. If there is something your heart yearns for, and we all have those things, don't delay. I am glad I have this mixer rather than regretting that I do not have one.

Friday, March 21, 2014

Flora

Wilmington is known for its azaleas, but just as loved are the camellias. I was glad to see several blooming in my yard as spring approached, especially this pretty ruffled variety.
I just took this pic of some blooms on the saucer magnolia that is on the side of my house.

 

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

a happy thing

About two and a half miles from my house is a produce market that is open year round. What a treat! I have recently been buying tomatoes there for use in vegetable soup, chili, and last night in shrimp creole. So much better than using canned. But what I love the most is having access to these gorgeous fresh eggs. Nothing better than an egg straight from the chicken.
 

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

a few stolen minutes

After dropping some stuff off at my studio, I decided to drive downtown. It is only a mile or so away, and the weather was as unseasonably warm as it was cold last week. I parked on a street I wasn't familiar with but thought it looked interesting because most of the houses had plaques on them stating their historical significance, the year they were built, the style (mostly Queen Anne), and who the architect was. Wilmington has one of the largest historic areas in the country. The homes were being lived in and were well kept and pretty, and I had to remind myself how much I love my patio home so I wouldn't lust after them! Chandler's Wharf was right around the corner. and I went in a couple of great shops there. I was successful in not buying any of the cute things they had. Here is an iPhone shot. You can see the Cape Fear River at the end of the street.

Saturday, March 8, 2014

Lights, camera, action!

The weather of the past week was awful with cold winds and driving rains. Today however is sunny and pretty, as if it has no remembrance of the previous days. Not a bad way to be. I was glad for the better weather as it made it easier for visitors to stop by ArtWorks on this second Saturday, an Open Studio day. One thing I did while there was  to put down interlocking foam pieces of flooring, which is the last of the grunt work. Now the studio is ready to furnish with whatever it is that goes in a studio. That will be fun, but then I must act! There is much to love about the big ol' place. The owners are upbeat, helpful, encouraging and want everyone to do well. The group of artists, mostly women, are so nice and supportive of each other. It is already a good thing.

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

a rundown

Too many big deals last week pushed my EQ (excitability quotient) over the top. A week ago Sunday I joined the church. Wednesday I was among some accomplished artists in our critique session. Friday I went to the doctor. (I hate to go to a doctor but I have to get my thyroid medicine.) Meanwhile the main light was hung in my studio and I finally finished painting the walls. (I am almost ready to use it!) I baked two birthday cakes, engaged in many stimulating conversations, and attended several events, and so on. My mind was abuzz every night, and I didn't get enough sleep. I think I have been the most enthused about ArtWorks, the building where my studio is one of many. It is a nice community of bright and interesting people who are passionate about what they are doing in the visual or performing arts. I wonder where the journey there will take me. Now that is exciting! Sunday and Monday I made myself back off and chill out, and my mind became quiet enough to focus on reading a book. Today I was out in the biting cold calmly taking care of the day's duties. I am glad I have the capacity for enthusiasm and joy, but sometimes I am a bit much for myself.