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Life has been SO busy lately! Making up for that today with a PERSONAL invitation for YOU to view my 'Galleries', aka 'Collections', all 40 of them! Click on the weblink below to ENJOY!

'Just a Wild & Crazy Rose' [shown here] is but one of the colorful creations you'll find when visiting my 'Enhanced Tweaked Manipulated ~ Make-overs and Photoshop Creations' collection.

Once you get there, click on any image to see & learn more about my creative process, as well as print options. Then, return to the main 'Collections' tab to view each gallery to find those that resonate most with you.

Thank you kindly for your interest and patronage.

~Brooks Garten Hauschild

Hello, everyone...and WELCOME to 'A Woman's Touch'!

Please take a minute to read our GROUP 'Overview' below! If you are interested, then click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link to visit our fabulous 'Homepage', overflowing with members' AMAZING art & photography, all available for SALE! We are currently the #1 'Highly Active' featured group onsite, with stats higher than I've ever seen. We are just 1,200 women-members...and participation is our strong suit, participation as well as promotion ~ promoting one another, promoting our own work, promoting our group and promoting our sales! We keep our membership numbers low so we can rise higher!

On that note ~

Women members ONLY are welcome to join the group. LADIES only; sorry guys!

{Image shown is our group logo.}
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Welcome to OUR world! We are an exciting DOUBLE-AWARD WINNING group featuring an ECLECTIC array of creative works by the TALENTED WOMEN of FAA-Pixels worldwide! EVERY space NEEDS 'A Woman's Touch'!
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GALLERY OWNERS, HOME DECORATORS, ART COLLECTORS and VISITORS ~ We've got what you're looking for! Enjoy our FINE ART GALLERY below to find the PERFECT IMAGES to decorate your space[s]! Our 'HOMEPAGE' is unique and ever-EVOLVING, so come back often! Click on any image to see all PRINT OPTIONS. Scroll thru our 'Images' [tab above] for more.
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MEMBERS ~ Submit your BEST work for review! Use our 'Discussions' to: [1] gain more exposure & views [2] share your sale$ [3] interact with & support others, and [4] have fun while doing so! 'Contests' are always available to promote you, your work & our group. We were honored to be the 1st group onsite to receive the coveted 'Administrator's Gold Award', as well as the 1st 'Best Group Badge' of 2021! Together, we have created a warm, supportive, inspiring & successful group, ranked in the Top 3 'Highly Active' featured groups onsite. Let's keep it that way...ONE image a day! {Group logo: 'Healing Rose' by Carol Cavalaris.}
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Ladies, to JOIN us, you need to have a Profile Picture [avatar], an About [bio] and a Premium Account = 25+ images in your gallery w-keywords & image descriptions. NEW members, please check in via our 'Chat Room' thread. I screen all newcomers.
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~Brooks

Come enter this wonderful contest featuring FAA-Pixels members with an artistic eye for B&W photography! All you have to do to go there is click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below!!

The RULES:
[1] Post 3 of your BEST, most dramatic or most unusual black-and-white photographs. NO sepia!
[2] Family friendly ONLY.
[3] Images MUST be original to you; NO Ai this time.
[4] NO FLOWERS, HOUSE CATS, DUCKS or SQUIRRELS!!
[5] NO voter solicitation.
[6] I am the 'decider' on what stays or goes.

Logo: 'In High Spirits' by Preeti M.

For fun, exposure, peer support, friendly competition, bragging rights & sale$.

VISITORS are invited to view the entries & contact the artists. ALL images are for $ALE!

Women members ONLY are welcome to join the sponsoring group by clicking on the link to the right, reading our 'Overview' first, then joining.

As creator & host of this contest, I retain the right to remove any image or any member at any time for any reason. Please do NOT contact me if your image is removed. A reminder that all of my contests do not allow vote solicitation!

[Photo shown here: 'Riders in the Sand' by Brooks Garten Hauschild as seen in my portfolio.]

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below to see more about the MOST POPULAR FLOWER in my entire gallery of 'Images'! I'm honored to announce that this beautiful purple hydrangea, taken in my garden, placed 1st in the recently-wrapped 'FLOWERS' contest yesterday. Thanks to everyone who voted!

My 'See Me Now' hydrangea has the most 'CONTEST' wins, the most 'VIEWS', the most 'GROUP FEATURES' and the most 'COMMENTS-LIKES-FAVS' of the many flowers contained in my portfolio. Ironically, it has only seen two sales on this site! How can that be?

Macro flower photography continues to enchant & excite. It's all about making a small object appear larger than life. The flower is the international symbol for a close-up! Get as close as you can to the flower you are photographing, as their beauty becomes more evident the closer you get.

Thank you for taking the time to enjoy my hydrangea, as well as the many floral macros seen in my gallery!

~Brooks

Fall in southern OR ranges from the early autumn garden still alive with blossoms, bees and butterflies, to later in the season when colorful leaves cover the ground and perennials hide away until spring comes.

I've been uploading several captures taken in early fall, including this image titled 'Living on the Edge', which you can see & enjoy by clicking on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below.

The sunflowers & garden blossoms may have withered, and the bounty of visitors flown away, but their beauty will be with us forever in images like this! Imagine a fine art print, and more, decorating your home or office, boudoir or nursery, bistro or gallery, hotel lobby or B&B. Be CREATIVE with your space!

While you are visiting my gallery to see this particular piece, please also take some time to scroll thru my portfolio filled with images taken in the garden, original art & photography, and local color!

I can't believe it's been over a year since my last blog post! I promise to do better than that in the weeks & months to come. Happy Holidays!

I am a visual artist who wears many creative hats ~ musician, singer, songwriter, photographer, digital artist, creator of garden sanctuaries, interior designer...and POET! Poetry is just one more way to express artistic vision, beauty, emotion & self. Some of us here like to include a little poetry in some of our image descriptions, which adds a special personal touch on a deeper level.

'Just a Wild and Crazy Rose' [seen here] was created from a rose capture taken in my garden and contains a poem from one of my collections titled "Awakened Passion ~ Words of Love" in its description. Click on the 'Click On This For More Information' link below to view. It's right there on the last row of images.

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~ Excerpt from an article via Literary Hub titled 'Why Are So Many Poets Also Artists' ~
"My background with improvisation has made me a better poet. There is something about being able to connect two points in space with a movement of my arm, or cross a space/stage/gallery with my body, or respond to a gesture or impulse in the body of another, that has greatly influenced my writing. Part of poetry for me is being able to connect disparate elements/images/dialogues in the space of the page or poem, and I’ve known how to do this with my body for a very long time.
I don’t consciously switch between mediums. I try [heavy emphasis on try] to go into my studio in the morning and say, “What do I feel like doing?” The answer might be writing an essay, freezing a miniature in an ice cube or stitching a real or invented patent design onto a handkerchief. I initially thought my most recent book, 'If the Tabloids are True What are You?', would be a book of poems titled with photographs of miniatures. But I got bored after about seven poems and started making constellations by pricking pins into black paper, which then morphed into making silhouettes and so on. I think so many poets are interdisciplinary artists because being a poet is about attentiveness, and that attentiveness doesn’t only translate into words."

~ Excerpt from a Getty 'Art & Poetry' article:
"For centuries, artists from Michelangelo to Picasso, have written and published poems. Artists who are fluent in the visual & literary arts are able to select the creative medium that best expresses their ideas. In some cases, painting & poetry are displayed to more deeply communicate a theme, emotion or thought. William Blake, one of the most prolific artists & poets of the Romantic Period united the two sister arts - painting & poetry - most effectively in his 'illuminated books'. Recalling medieval illuminated
manuscripts, these richly illustrated books addressed large themes such as religious hypocrisy, poverty, inequality and human existence. Blake's books represented the marriage of painting & poetry through carefully etched poems & accompanying images. His best-known works are 'Songs of Innocence' and 'Songs of Experience', two illustrated collections of lyric poems."

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I have written a couple collections of poetry interlaced with my art & photography. One is a journey thru loss & grief, and another contains 'words of love' from the afore-mentioned 'Awakened Passion'. Here is a poem from the latter, which also appears on one of my images in my gallery.


T a n g o
[Poetry in Motion]


'Like a lover,
he held the sax,
moving hypnotically.
The yellow-gold of his instrument
set-off his dark hair and eyes,
while his fingertips savored
the last drops of each note.


Through the smoke and heat,
his eyes caught mine,
black i n t o blue.
Half a smile lit his clean-shaven face. I swear
he winked, but I could’ve been mistaken.


He wore a tiny gold cross in one ear
and his hair combed back
from a face I’ve dreamed.
His lips were full, almost feminine.


He made me want to Tango.
I’ve never danced the Tango.


Taking a break from the music,
he turned and headed straight toward me.
Silver taps c l i c k e d under worn black boots.
I couldn’t stop smiling.


His hand met mine
and didn’t let go.


He smelled of peppermint and chocolate.


He taught me to Tango."


[c] Brooks Garten Hauschild

Created from a thread I posted in earlier in the 'Discussions' forum supporting group administrators ~

Members choosing to spend their precious time running groups need to feel the love from time to time. Here is the place you can share your comments re. SO many members enjoy participating in them for hours each day, and, if they didn't exist, many members would quit, or so they tell me. This is for all those administrators who take the time to tend their groups daily and the members who appreciate them!

Good & great administrators should be applauded for the work they do, and it is 'work'. We could be all be consumed with our own promotion 24-7, so it's a good thing when members are willing to support others in this way...and do it well. That in itself should be applauded. Same goes for hosting contests, when they are creative & well-tended. Both are very popular pastimes onsite!

There are rules for administrators laid out by Abbie in the 'Group Administrator's Only' group, which everyone should read & follow in order for things to run smoothly.

Here are some ideas of mine that might also make the group experience better for everyone:
[1] If you want to create a group, make sure you're ready for the responsibility; too many aren't prepared for the long haul.
[2] Abandoned groups should be closed & removed promptly.
[3] Perhaps limiting the number of groups any one member can take over and still be able to administrate properly?
[4] And, wouldn't it be great if new members became familiar with FAA-Pixels for a specific amount of time before being allowed to head a group! It would be beneficial if they also knew something about organization, promotion & marketing. This goes for contests, too.

I do often hear administrators wondering how to get their members to be more active! That is something each administrator will have to work out for themselves. There are so many options available, but I can say that: [1] running well-tended contests [2] offering a variety of discussions threads [3] creating a visually appealing homepage [4] featuring one artist each week in the spotlight so members get to know one another better [5] sending out one group email update once a week or month, and [6] actually paying attention to members in a more personal way really works.

For example, if you haven't seen an image submitted from someone for a little while, shoot off an email to see if everything is alright. Answer questions ASAP. Participate in your own group threads! Listen when necessary. And be sure to feature everyone. Not everyone's work is good or great or your cup of tea, but find something fabulous in even the most elementary of images. In other words, try to treat members fairly, so everyone has a chance to shine.

Feel free to share any helpful advice or ideas on how groups can better support their members. Many group administrators simply offer homepage features, that's it...and there are those members who only want that from a group experience. Others want interaction amongst members and threads available that are aimed at promotion & marketing. Happily, there are enough of both, at least in the groups I am a part of, to make everyone happy.

Here are some of my replies to comments made to members' posts. Thanks to everyone taking the time to respond ~

Sharon, what wonderful words of thanks to all administrators doing their job ~ "It is you who are the backbone of this site, and make a beautiful, informative and helpful community surrounding our art". We administrators, in turn, are grateful for members like you & others who take time to not only participate, but uplift others & their work, as well. Thank YOU!

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Lucia! When I first began creating & hosting contests, I learned quickly that it was going to be work, lol. And all these years later, with over 750 contests under my belt, it still is! Members always enter images that don't belong, some get testy and not everyone votes. Still, people love them and I still enjoy offering them.

Thank you so much for your comments...and for being a kind active member of my group & others. I hosted so many contests, that I just didn't have time to think about running a group until several years ago. Then when I did, I found out how much more work that was! But, it is mostly a labor of love on my part, as I have such a wonderful group of women members who also support me!

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Glenn, each of your ideas to help administrators do their job better are definitely doable, and would also make the work of administering more enjoyable. Numero uno = happy administrators who can help make a difference! If they are feeling a bit empowered, then the group benefits as a whole. Happy members are more active, too.

I completely agree with your "a stiffer vetting of those who take on the task, a basic framework, and a signed acknowledgment of some kind". Thanks for your valuable input as one of the more successful administrators onsite.

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Carmen, appreciate you checking in and for all the encouraging & appreciative words re group administrators in general. I agree wholeheartedly ~ "Administering a group on FAA/Pixels is an extraordinary commitment! I can't imagine being able to do that. That being said, they're not all created equal". It's important to pick & choose your groups wisely. I see some members with pages upon pages of groups they can't possibly participate in. I guess they have them for the sole purpose of uploading their images in hopes of being seen. I always suggest limiting your groups...and picking one or two or three to be more active in. There are not enough hours in a day to do more than that. Yikes.

Your comment "I applaud anyone taking on this time-consuming task! The best though, are always the ones who have the passion for it!"...sums it up well. Thank you for being a wonderful member of my group.

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Judy! Thank you for hosting 'USA Photographers' and doing such a great job. I'm happy to say I am a member of & enjoy your group, which is always neck & neck with mine on the 'highly active' featured group ladder! Agree completely with your "I have my favorite groups that I belong to and if I find one that is not really serving my purpose or that I am not getting any benefit from, then I leave that group." I do the same. I might message the administrator first to see what the deal is, but I have no problem quitting a group that doesn't benefit me or my work.

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Like Lesley says, an administrator's time spent creating & promoting their own work does get pushed to the side. But, I try to organize my schedule wisely in order to do both. There are days that we are more committed to the group & its activities, and those when we have more time for ourselves, so it can work. A balancing act.

Kudos to YOU, btw, Lesley, for creating, as well as rescuing other groups. I know you are a hands-on administrator, as well...and respect your members. And, yes, there are ALWAYS members who don't read or follow the rules...in groups and contests! Makes our work that much harder. I wish people would do the right thing without us having to remind them.

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Bonnie! You are so kind...and I appreciate it. Finding those quotes each week for our Sunday group email also uplifts me, so I'm happy to know they have an impact. It's members like you that make the experience of administering a group worthwhile. Thank you so much for being a wonderful part of mine.

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Wonderful words, Joan ~ "I have been inspired and learnt so much from the group discussions (and group members), as well as making many friends via the groups who I enjoy seeing each day. I personally would not spend as much time on the site if there were not any groups."

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Yes, Jenny, time consuming, but still a passion!

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Thank you for your kind comments, Kristin, including, "You [administrators] keep us focused and engaged. I am glad to be here and it is making me excited about my own work again."

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Alice, thank you for mentioning everyone who works hard here onsite! I know I and other administrators who go the extra mile appreciate this ~ "Then there are those administrators who go above and beyond, putting so much of themselves (time, effort, creativity) into giving the group more opportunity to participate, share, be promoted and help each other to be promoted. Basically put their heart and soul into it nurturing it like it is their child. I am sure it is like holding down another job although they do not make it seem as such but rather a joy." I think that is when a group soars, when it is nurtured!

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MaryJane, so true. We all have more time to participate in the groups because of Covid and more time spent at home. Many members make lasting friendships thru the groups, especially the interactive threads. Thank you.

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From Laurel ~ Dear Brooks, thank you so much for all the work you do. This is such a BEAUTIFUL thread promoting positivity�yes! To be a conscientious administrator for either groups or contests is a heArtfelt service. To me, it�s the difference between opening a can for dinner or preparing a three course meal from scratch. Thank you, Brooks for taking pride in your administrative efforts and spreading the love.

I agree, Laurel! It's true that creating & tending a group means less time for our own promotion & creativity, but there is something about supporting others that just comes naturally to some of us. We like doing it. And yes it's service-oriented, hosting contests & groups. True, too, that some administrators are innately more 'conscientious' about their groups, the content & presentation, as well as preparing & presenting a full 'meal' in which members can heartedly partake. Love that comparison.

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I must mention the fact that administrators are also group members! And we can learn so much from one another re what works and what doesn't.

In my women only 'A Woman's Touch' group, I am honored to have these women who are also administrators of these fabulous groups [and others] of which I am also a member ~

Karen - 'Lady Photographers & Artists'; Jasna - 'Global Flowers Photography'; Judy - 'USA Photographers'; Jenny - 'No Place Like Home'; Kim - 'The Road to Self Promotion'; Julie - 'Your Story of Art'; Dianne - 'Ocean Photography'; Pam - 'ABC Group'; Barbie - 'The 200 Club'; Mary - 'Abstract Fine Art Photography'; Bukunolami - 'Daily Promotion'; Colette - 'Orange Yellow Red'; Janet - 'For the Love of Flowers'; Dora - 'Visions of Spring'; Inez - 'Fine Art Apparel'; Nina - 'Art ~ It is Good for You'; Mariola - 'Wildlife ~ One a Day'; Cia - 'Digital Art & Photography'; Abbie - 'Group Administrators Only'; Lesley mentioned above...Genevieve, Taphath, Gigi, Barbara, Linda, GJ, Maria and others as well.

Thank you for all the work you do, ladies! And guys, too. We applaud your dedication!

~Brooks

Logo image is 'A Woman's Touch' group avatar. Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' to view the group. Enjoy!

Genetics play but a small part of our overall health! We don’t have to 'fear the reaper' when it comes to our longevity and agility just because there is a family history of certain health issues or dis-ease. We need to embrace all that is good about our family genes, like fabulous bone structure, good teeth, athleticism, our engaging personalities, lol, etc., while not letting the ‘bad’ become a blueprint for our lives. We are not doomed to follow in the footsteps of our family members when it comes to our health. If heart disease, cancer or weak knees run in your family, you can 'reverse the curse and course' with lifestyle changes, diet & exercise; it doesn't need to define who you are or who you will be. Keep in mind, too, the preventative measures I mention below. A little goes a long way, literally. And don’t just keep them in mind, use your mind; it’s a POWERFUL force in healing & living well.

We are our own best doctors. So many people are overly reliant on & compliant when it comes to the man in a white coat ~ a doc's opinion or advice. My advice is that the more we pay attention to our own health the less likely we are to need or rely on a doctor. We are able, on our own, to notice any changes that may warrant extra attention. My first choice is to visit a Naturopath or Integrative Medicine Physician, Chiropractor, Massage therapist, Acupuncturist, etc. I always do some research when something is troubling me, or someone I know. And I've always trusted my woman's intuition. Our bodies are miraculous, amazing and wise 'machines' built to last...if we take care of them!

Don’t get me wrong. We each have or will have our own health issues to deal with, especially inhabiting an environment that is suffering, soil that needs replenishing, air & water quality that is less than stellar, etc. I'm no exception, especially at my age and as I age. Some issues I've dealt with since birth and experienced soon after, and others have arisen due to [unnecessary] surgeries, falls, whiplashes, accidents & injuries, mostly things outside my control. In some of those instances, doctors rushing to judgment made decisions that were not in my best interest, and I've had to deal with the results. Most of us have those stories, I'm sure.

For pain, I don't rush to a doctor or the medicine cabinet. I opt for self-care, like massage, stretching, isometrics, heat and ice, etc., or ask my husband for a back, neck or shoulder rug to help alleviate pain or stiffness. I also pay monthly visits to the chiropractor for 'maintenance' [gentle manipulation only], drink lots of water, eat a 95% plant-based diet [70% raw], take my vits & minerals, make good use of nature's herbs, tonics & tinctures, and stretch & exercise. No alcohol, no nicotine, no drugs, no caffeine for me, and guess what, abstaining doesn't make me a dull 'girl', keep my from having fun or being the life of the party. When life brings you to your knees enough times, you tend to, or I choose to, be clear-minded & sober. Some take other routes, drowning their sorrows or numbing their emotions. I prefer clarity and a well-functioning brain & body. I toyed with those vices in my youth, but, take it from me, a clear head is best to really deal with life's challenges...really!

As far as outside appearances, I follow a very simple beauty routine. No need for expensive creams or makeup. I just wash my face and apply a little moisturizer & lip gloss...and I'm good to go. It's the inner beauty that's more important, as it radiates outward in your welcoming smile, shining eyes and willingness to make every day, and every one you meet, count! Even with all that has gone on in my life [a lot!] and all the time I spent tanning in the SoCal sun, I still look [act and dress] much younger than I am! And I'm happy to say I've avoided the plastic surgery craze like the plague, which I think it is, a plague! NO outside help for me, as in nip-tucks, fillers, hair or lash extensions, cheek or breast implants, face & brown lifts, lasers, tattooed makeup, etc. Ladies [and men], just say 'NO'! I've chosen to age naturally and gracefully. Keepin' it REAL; yes, we can! It's true that a 'glass half full' attitude helps. I could have taken the victim route many times with deep life-altering losses & health issues I've had to contend with, so I know firsthand that keeping a positive frame of mind, as well as a health body, is essential to living a long, healthy, happy & relevant life!

To stay current, I make sure to schedule a 'Women's Wellness' appointment every year, as well as annual visit with my PCP for a general health exam, which includes a Complete Blood Count [CBC], Comprehensive Metabolic Panel [CMP] and Thyroid tests. The latter is super important for me due to a cancer scare at 19 because of radiation treatments I received as an infant for an enlarged thymus gland, something the AMA now knows is a good thing, not bad. Btw, it was due to my own self-care that I found the slight lump in my throat, and thru my own research learned about the radiation treatments I received as a baby. Thank goodness my mother who passed when I was young kept meticulous notes in her girls' baby books! It was because of those treatments, which were supposed to help, that many of us, when reaching our teens & early 20's, were being diagnosed with cancer of the thyroid, etc. Thankfully, I noticed the changes, went to the doctor and was able to get help in time. But, I have to take a daily med because of all that. Be sure to stay on top of those cholesterol numbers-ratios and triglyceride counts, too, even with a healthy diet & exercise. It's also a good practice to monitor your BP; I use an at-home cuff to check my #'s weekly. All these things are pro-active & preventative measures...and important!

Pay attention to your genetic history, but don’t let it rule your life...because it doesn’t have to! You can change it up with diet, positive energy & a healthier lifestyle. You can actually talk to your body, much like some people talk to plants or animals, and, guess what, it will listen! People have healed themselves with mind-over-matter techniques, and we all know that prayer & meditation are powerful tools, too. A great documentary on the subject is 'Heal', 2017. Make sure to give yourself positive re-enforcement daily...and LAUGH, even when you don't want to. I laugh out loud deeply every morning for a minute as part of my waking routine because it's documented that our brains respond in-kind instantly. Btw, laughter is the new prescription for good health! Carl Reiner said at 95 years young, "When you can laugh, life is worth living. It keeps me going. It keeps me young.” We get enough negative feedback & energy everyday on the news, via TV shows, from others, etc. Your body reacts to both, so make sure you get as much positive reinforcement as possible each & every day.

By now, we all know that diet & lifestyle play a BIG part in how we live our lives, but that's not all we need to build a solid firm foundation that will last. Our 'to-do' list for living long & well also includes ~ adequate rest, play, sunlight, a strong spiritual belief system, meaningful work, social connections=family, friends, pets and counting your blessings. And who among us hasn't had to rely on the kindness of strangers at some point in our lives? We need to repay that in kind...and BE kind! It's a jungle out there, and it does a body, heart, mind & Soul good to know we can count on someone, that someone has our back, and vice versa. I've got a lot more to say, but I'll save it for another blog or two or three, lol. Keep an eye out...and have a blessed, health-filled day that radiates outward to others!

~Brooks

I haven't created one of these types of images in a long while ~ a before and after...and I'm really feeling the urge. When the mood strikes, right! I plan on choosing another of my macro flower captures taken in the garden and re-create it as an abstract similar to this...maybe tomorrow?

After recently hosting a 'Diptych' contest using this image as the logo, I realized it had been ages since I simply had FUN on Photoshop. With SO much on my plate right now, both personally & professionally, I haven't taken the time to play artistically in a while. I will definitely schedule some creative time tomorrow...and share the result with you soon! The fun part is that you never know what wild & wonderful things will appear...until they do as you work your magic!

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link to see & learn more about my work.

Thank you, Brooks

Everyone loves these happy brighten-your-day flowers heralding the end of summer. They are blooming profusely at the moment, giving new life to our waning garden...and are certainly a Godsend this year with all the smoke, heat & drought we have been experiencing here in the PNW for the last couple of months.

Please click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below to view my 'Sunflower Power' Collection. It is full of these gorgeous sunny flowers sure to uplift & inspire. Check back often as I will uploading the latest images taken in the garden throughout the coming days & months. There are a lot of them, lol!

I also have a 'Festival of Sunflowers' contest in voting mode if you're interested. Simply click on the Community 'Contests' tab & search that title. Vote if you are a member!

Thank you!

~Brooks

In our FIRST year of being, we were thrilled to be the first group to receive the 'Best Group Award' of 2021...AND the first group ever to receive the coveted 'Special Administrator's Gold Medal'! In fact, Abbie had to create one for us! Though it's been several months since those wonderful honors were bestowed upon us, we are still basking in the glow...and happy to share that we are a double-award winning group! We earned it.

Although we are growing rapidly, with 1100 members-and-counting, everyone is warmly welcomed, as well as noticed on our homepage via features. There is SO much to do & be a part of in our group, that all members have a chance to shine, interact & promote! Happy to report that 'A Woman's Touch' has also been ranked in the 'Very High' group activity rating since week one, as well as seen in the TOP FEATURED groups onsite. Bravo!

In this amazing group of talented women artists & photographers you can expect an eclectic array of creative works! This very special forum presents original artwork, photography, digital art, mixed media & more by the women members of Fine Art America-Pixels.com around the globe. From tasteful she-shed art, beautiful landscapes, provocative floral macros, alluring fractals, pensive portraiture, exotic wildlife, sumptuous paintings and the mysterious imaginative ~ EVERY space NEEDS 'a woman's touch'!

Our HOMEPAGE continues to be unique among the groups, not just because we showcase amazing tasteful art & photography, BUT it is assembled in an artful eye-catching way every week to benefit our members' work and entice potential customers to come back often. I rotate features in & out all week, but each images gets at least a few days in the spotlight. Be sure to come check out our homepage every week, especially our FEATURE FRIDAY!

VISITORS are always welcomed to view our 'Featured' works, as well as the pages of 'Images'! We always invite our visitors to contact any of our members about their work, as well! Plus we eagerly share the homepage link with family, friends and on Social Media.

MEMBERS are invited to share their wonderful works and join any 'Discussions' thread they prefer! We do have 'Rules of Entry', which are posted on our homepage 'Overview'. They are simple & aimed at attracting only those members who are serious about selling and want to present a professional profile. I host myriad 'Contests' to help promote our members, their work & the group! As a matter of fact, I have hosted nearly 700 contest to date since I joined the site!

Every Sunday, I select a NEW member to be our 'Up Close & Personal' SPECIAL featured artist. I pick one image from their gallery and work their bios to spotlight on our homepage. I have also created a NEW discussions thread in which I get the honor to further promote some of our featured members each week. Once you click on the weblink below, click on our 'Discussions' tab...and look for 'Administrator's Picks of the Week'!

Together, we have made, and are making 'A Woman's Touch' a creative, supportive, inspiring, successful group!

Click on the link here to learn more...and join if you'd like. Sorry guys, women only!

Logo image: 'Intuition', a 2' x 4' acrylic painting by Brooks Garten Hauschild.

What a joy to immerse myself in the sensuous unfolding of the myriad roses blooming in my lovely garden!

Mother Nature surely never tired of creating such exquisite floral designs & centerpieces, nor making sure her flowers were equipped with the perfect fragrances & wares to draw just the right kind & amount of visitors!

Enjoy my latest series of SUPER macro rose images, with more to come, by visiting my 'Parade of Roses' Collection! I hope you get lost in the beauty, as well.

Questions re my work ~ pricing, size & color ~ are always welcome.

Click on the 'Click Here for More Information' link below to visit my gallery. You will see the 'Collections' tab at the top; simply click on it, then 'Parade of Roses'! Enjoy.

Stay safe, sane, creative and cool this summer!

Image shown here: 'Embrace Me Gold Rose' by Brooks Garten Hauschild.

If you LOVE these incredible flowers and want to share your POPPY images, either photography or art, or both, then click on 'Click Here For More Information' below and join this brand NEW group!

I will be hosting contests to share our beautiful poppy imagery, as well as offer supportive group discussion threads in which to archive & promote your work. Every month, one of our member's work will be displayed in the spotlight position on our Homepage.

We will always be a smaller, more intimate group because of our specific flower theme, but all that means is that everyone will be able to shine and be noticed. Features will be much easier to receive, as well, and isn't that what most members want anyway, besides sales, of course.

Right now when you visit our Homepage you will find 30 gorgeous poppy paintings or photographs that I know you will enjoy! So come see us.

{Image shown is titled 'Orange Euphoria', a poppy macro taken in my summer garden and available as a fine art print.. Check out my 'Poppy Power' Collection for more!.}

"Since joining FAA, I've hosted nearly 600 contests, which has been both rewarding & challenging. I realize it's strictly voluntary on my part, but doing a good job takes time & patience, emphasis on the latter. If you are also thinking of spending some of your precious time sponsoring contests, and entering them, here are some things you might want to know! With all the perks available to members onsite ~ hosting contests, administering groups, creating a blog, posting in the community 'Discussions' forum, promoting our art & photography and supporting others, also maybe managing a day job, AND having the energy to spend w-family & friends ~ its' a wonder any of us get a good night's sleep? I know I REALLY miss that other perk, a yummy double cappuccino that helped jump start my day! Sigh, doctor's orders.

Tending contests usually takes a backseat during warmer temps when fairer-weather projects call my name: the big garden cleanup; home d-i-y endeavors; a slew of unfinished paintings; numerous photography sessions; and all those edits & uploads! The endless updating of site[s] and learning new ropes re promoting my work continues, come rain or shine. Naturally more artiste than promoter, the latter can prove a bit frustrating, but I do my best. Then, of course, there's life in general, which always needs tending! 'A woman's work is never done' is so true. Things are still a little different due to the Covid scare & sheltering in, which means all of us have had more time on our hands, which translates to more contests to host. I also created a group for WOMEN artists & photographers in mid-April 2020, 'A Woman's Touch'. I'm happy to say we are thriving w-1,000 women members and placing in the 'Very High' group activity rating since week one. Amazing!

For me, organizing [and entering] contests is an enjoyable & creative way to share my work here while also supporting others. But, as most hosts & group administrators find out, there are a handful of members intent on making the experience a little less fun, if you let 'em. For starters, some members get really 'testy' when you remove their images that don't follow your easy-to-read rules, even when you've offered them a chance to re-enter ones that do! More work on our part, removing images & sending emails. Then, there are those who will try to 'help' you run the contest when they've never taken the time to host one! Hosting & running contests on FAA isn't rocket science, everyone, though by the looks of some it might be! I always 'suggest' that folks host at least one contest of their own, which never fails to garner their lasting respect IF they do! You don't need to be a summa cum laude graduate or professional artist for over 45 years, ahem, to do a great job; you just need to be somewhat creative, motivated, organized, detail-oriented & able to check the entries before voting to dump those that don't fit. The occasional rotten apple or two or three ~ those who continually try to win or place by solicitation, those entering images that don't follow the rules, and those letting you know how they feel in an unfriendly way ~ are to be dealt w-promptly & directly.

One major complaint from those sponsoring contests is 'why' some members can't read & follow simple rules? I realize it's not in some of our DNA as creative sorts to abide by rules, as a rule, but that's how things roll here, which you will find out if you EVER host a contest! Structure is a good thing. It's a mystery to me that no matter how many times I say "Color ONLY", people enter B&W images; or if I post 'Photography only', folks enter paintings; or if I clearly state 'Family-friendly entries ONLY', some enter nudes, eerie or even offensive images. So, it's the RULES, people! Read and follow them. It takes more of my precious time to correct your errors!

Another problem plaguing contests, no matter how much some hosts work to combat the practice, is solicitation [group & individual] and leaderboard manipulation. It's a biggie. There are actually some contests & groups that allow the practice, but the majority of members, administrators & hosts discourage it. Members choosing to participate in this type of activity on a regular basis may think the rules don't apply to them, or perhaps they simply believe that winning & placing is SO important they are oblivious to others' right to an equal & fair playing field. It's especially bothersome when those soliciting votes and w-i-n-n-i-n-g don't have the best work...and it certainly doesn't allow the 'cream of the crop' to rise to the top when folks screw around with things. It simply shows who's best at soliciting votes, not who HAS the best work! It's true that being a member of certain FAA groups can help members place in contests. Some administrators actually provide a thread in their discussions for members to solicit votes, but that overt behavior is becoming a thing of the past as more & more of them are 'feeling the heat'. However, some sneaky members have resorted to covert operations, creating private message forums where members can ask those participating to vote for them in particular contests. Really underhanded. Now that I know some of their names, their images will be removed in mine if they start inching up on the leaderboard. Friends voting for friends can't be helped either; they will support one another however they can, even when not asked. So, yes, it can look like a 'popularity contest', or worse, the contests, where people who don't deserve to win win & the deserving don't. But, be cheered by the fact that MANY of the latter DO win, more often than not! And, many are deserving, but there can be only one winner. If a contest host is on his or her toes, the offending members & entries will get the ax once voting trends begin.

Like I said, it can be fun coming up w-creative & interesting contest ideas, making rules, promoting members' work, seeing some really spectacular images and encouraging lively voter participation. I've met some wonderful, super-talented friends while doing so. The really great thing is that members actually DO make sales directly from entering the contests. So, what's not to like...except for the few negative Joe's & Jo's who show up. Happily, most of them do not enter my contests anymore or vote when it's time in order to mess with things. It took some doing, but it was worth my while, as well as all the others whose diligence & hard work help make the contests more fair.

A few more things re VOTING...yes, there's more! Many of those entering contests will just vote on their own images...and that's it. Some enter for the 'exposure' and never show up to vote. That's fine; to each their own. But, usually participants will take a few minutes to scroll through the pages of thumbnails [a couple, anyway] and vote on other people's work. I mean, since you're 'there'!? Also, a lot of folks complain about there being too many entries in some of the contests, making it way too time-consuming to vote. I agree. It's important for hosts to watch the number of images permitted, even though FAA guidelines allow up to 10! Be aware that once a contest hits the 2500-entry mark, entries that were uploaded first [the back pages] will not get seen! I like to vary mine, not only in subject matter, but amount of entries. If I know the topic will bring a bigger turnout, I'll limit it to 1 or 2. If it's something like 'Floral Abstracts in Acrylic', I'll allow more, since most members here are photographers...and not a lot of artists paint floral acrylic abstracts! But, those two things, allowing 10 images & reaching 2500+ entries, can cause headaches for participants. That's an awful lot of images to sift through in order to vote...and most people just don't have the time, patience or attention span to do that with everything else on their plates. Then, to find your images have gone missing, that stinks! Scrolling through the pages of thumbnails to cast your vote[s] is a lot easier than looking at each individual image, IF you're going to vote. That being said, hosts will still decide what they will or won't allow in their contests, according to FAA rules, and members will still enter, maybe win or place, continue to complain, and sometimes vote!

All three contest options we're offered onsite have their 'good, bad & ugly' points. I usually opt for 'Members Only' so peers decide members' fate. I think it's the fairest. 'Public Allowed' lets those who solicit well to 'win'. And 'Juried' contests have their own woes; don't get me started. Too late! Jurors and-or panel members have been known to vote for their own entries and their friends. That 'impartial' part sounds good, but! Friends vote for friends, jury or not. And I've seen hosts, who are also 'the one & only jury member', voting their own work into 1st place! Always make sure to check WHO the jury is before entering! My beef: Why in the world would I trust 1 or 2 members, whose work may not be stellar, or whose judgment I may not respect, decide whose work should win! That's nuts. So, you gotta have a sense of humor about the whole thing...organizing & sponsoring contests, and entering them!

What's the BIG deal about contests you may ask? Well, simply put, they are a communal platform offered by the site to share & showcase members' work. Your fellow members might also be moved to promote and-or share entries w-friends or family. I always encourage members entering my contests to share our link w-the public, both visitors & potential buyers, which can mean a larger audience...and sales. When hosting, I look at each image entered, even those contests w-the largest number[s] of submissions; that way, I not only weed out & remove those not following the rules, but I get to see hundreds, sometimes thousands, of artists/photographers whose work I may promote & share w-my friends & family and on Social Media. I have a LOT of friends! They, in turn, may share or, better yet, purchase something, so contests can be the gift that keeps on giving. As far as prizes, placing 1st, 2nd or 3rd may only get you the honor of 'bragging rights' and a little extra attention, as 'real' prizes are rarely offered. Getting your work seen is the focus, though! The 'Other Top Winners' category, which makes up most of the leaderboard, also affords you more views. In the end, contests are a GREAT resource! They provide a wonderful forum in which we can display our art, have the support from our peers, get the right to post a win under our images and the chance to garner some $ales in the process. Of course, the latter is the main objective in the first place, besides the fun, sharing & competitive part!

My tips for hosting contests:
[1.] Always provide a contest link when-if sending a "time-to-vote" group email! So frustrating to get a notice without the link or even the contest title itself.
[2.] Limit the number of entries. I prefer 3 or less, depending on the contest. Members will appreciate it...and you!
[3.] If you don't want folks to solicit votes, say it in your rules/description. It doesn't stop the practice completely, but the warning gives YOU the power to remove those you suspect or know are asking for favors. You might make an enemy or two when doing so, but it's par for the course.
[4.] Be specific in your description, make a few simple rules and, then, follow through! The other day someone entered a goofy-looking gumball machine & another image that had nothing to do with my 'Beautiful Trees' contest. I, of course, I removed...and promptly received a nasty email re! Hard to believe that people can be that ignorant and/or confrontational when they are in the wrong!? I usually suggest they stop entering my contests.
[5.] Choose subjects & styles that will appeal to visitors & collectors looking for specific types of art & photography. They are coming on-site looking to buy, so help them out by offering interesting topics that will catch their eye & attention. Make sure you [also] ask participants to enter their BEST work...and dump images that are shoddy-shot, ill-cropped, etc.
[6.] Tend your contests if you want members returning for more! You might also want to 'congratulate' the winners on their winning image itself. Again, members appreciate it and are more likely to keep entering your contests when they see that someone is in charge who actually cares.
[7.] Last, but not least, promote the heck out of your contests and ask participants to do so, too...whenever, wherever, however!

Finally, don't forget to have FUN when creating & tending your contests! If you know what to expect, then you can enjoy yourself. Remember, YOU are in charge! Remove those images that need removing, motivate members to vote...and enjoy yourself! Life is too short to stress over a contest. To those few needing a reminder, READ & FOLLOW the rules! It makes it so much easier for those of us who choose to host. I can't tell you how many worthy images I've removed that didn't follow the guidelines. And, you should know it takes time to remove those that don't fit, so read the rules...before entering! Unfortunately, or fortunately for some, there are scads of other contests to enter that don't give a hoot about what kind of work you post, how many images you upload, provide any rules whatsoever or make members adhere to them or offer any follow-through at the end. There should be more stringent rules for contest hosts!

Until my next blog post...'Happy Trails'! Let me hear from you, and take a moment to check out my gallery of 'Images' by clicking on the 'Click Here For More Information' link. Thank you ahead of time.


[Image shown: "Laughter is the BEST Medicine", an original photo collage seen on page one of my gallery.]

Took a little time to scroll thru my gallery of 'Favorites' today...and I'm so glad I did! What FUN to enjoy [again] the amazing, creative & eclectic works of art & photography I've chosen during the years as a member of FAA-Pixels, and wondering if some of those whose work I especially loved when I first joined up are still around! Happily, most, if not all, are still active members, like Doug K., Andreas T., Nava T., Deb H., Ylli H., Inge J., Joe S., Victoria K., Jim C., Barb G. Denny B., Davina N., Jane S. and many others! Warms the heart.

I also took time to edit the pages down to a precious 50...and am inviting YOU to take a few minutes to enjoy them as well! Simply click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link you see below, which takes you directly to my 'Favorites' gallery. I'm loving each & every image, and look forward to adding more!

Some members randomly 'favorite' images, and some mainly promote their own work in the 'Favorites', but I like supporting excellent [in my mind] work & artists, and am particular re my picks! Going thru them every now & then, I find that some resonate with me more than others, as tastes vary and some go by the wayside. But, there will always be certain gems that remain 'forever favorite', or at least as long as FAA-Pixels exists!

As a rule, I include only a small sampling of my own images, like the one you see here, "Just a Wild & Crazy Rose", digitally re-created from a photograph a red rose taken in my garden. You will find it, along with a wide range of creative works, many fresh from my garden, in my 'Images' gallery! Be sure to visit when you can.

Take good care...and let me know if-when you take time to view these beautiful pieces, or if you have a question about anything pertaining to my work.

Blessings, Brooks

St. Patrick's Day is a global celebration of Irish culture on March 17th. It particularly remembers St. Patrick, one of Ireland's patron Saints, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the 5th C. It is celebrated in countries with people of Irish descent, as well as widely celebrated in the United Kingdom, Canada, United States, Brazil, Argentina, Australia and New Zealand.

Patrick's Day first started to honor Saint Patrick on the anniversary of his death. The Christian people held a great feast for which Lenten food and alcohol restrictions were temporarily removed, which is why drinking has become synonymous with the holiday. Usually occurring in the middle of Lent, St. Patrick's Day was considered a welcome break from fasting for Catholics to enjoy meat, treats and alcohol.

This Holiday is popular in more countries than any other national festival...and has evolved into a celebration of Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, drinking and a whole lot of green!

Traditionally, the green represents the Catholics of Ireland, the orange represents the Protestant population and the white in the middle symbolizes the peace between the two religions. If you need a little luck in your life, try these St. Patrick's Day traditions that will bring you luck.

Patrick used the leaves of a shamrock as a metaphor for the holy trinity. Each leaf represented either the Father, the Son or the Holy Spirit.

According to Irish folklore, leprechauns were cranky tricksters who you wouldn't want to mess with. They live alone and pass the time by mending the shoes of Irish fairies. The Americanized, good-natured leprechaun soon became a symbol of St. Patrick's Day and Ireland in general.

I've just posted a NEW contest titled 'Whimsical St. Patrick's Day Images', using an idea and an image by the hosting group 'A Woman's Touch' member MM Anderson.

To celebrate with the color green, enjoy my logo image, 'Nile Mist Green White Rose Glow', seen here w-mat & frame, and available in my gallery as a fine art print & more. See page ONE of my 'Images'.

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link to visit my gallery!

Though there's just a few more days left til we celebrate Valentine's Day...keeping LOVE in our Hearts is an EVERY day thing!

Enjoy this 'something borrowed, something new' greeting card redesign, the perfect art gift for your beloved!

The history of Valentine’s Day, and the story of its patron saint, is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? You'll have to do a Google search to find out the details! So interesting seeing the bigger picture as to the reasons why & how we celebrate this special day!

Check out my gallery to view this image, and SO much more. Just click on the 'Click Here For More Information'!

Blessings, Brooks

Note: This image appears on the last page of my 'Images' portfolio.

I am SO grateful for this New Year! 2020 has been a bitter pill to swallow for most of us. Lots of loss in so many ways ~ saying 'good-bye' to family members & friends, missing our normal routines, lack of community & social life, more than the usual worries & stress, and so on. It was the 'gift' that we wished would not keep on giving!

For the most part, we learned to cope, found other ways to relate, used the time to create and tackle a LOT of home projects. 2020 hasn't been a complete disaster, but it's one for the books, again in so many ways!

Thankfully, we can essentially 'wipe the slate clean' and start over! We've got a new President [yay!], a new outlook, a new lease on life, and hopefully we will kick Covid to the curb in the not-too-distant-future.

I wish all my FAA-Pixels friends & family a Happy 2021 ~ may it be full of love, life, health, happiness & peace!

One of my resolutions is to invite more people to view my work, so, when you have a minute, click on the 'Click Here for More Information' link and check out my colorful 'Collections'!

Wishing you all a Peaceful Joy-filled Christmas in spite of all the craziness going on around us, which could easily dampen anyone's Holiday cheer! Whether it's Covid [with its restrictions, stress & loss], the current unfortunate political situation, a financial hardship you may be experiencing, etc., we can still & always find things to be thankful for, as in counting our blessings! I do that every morning these days, naming them one by one, which helps buoy my energy & keep me focused on what's really important. It's not easy every day, no, but necessary.

Thankfully, I've been able to maintain a sense of balance & peace [for the most part] by remembering to breathe deeply, affirming, praying, exercising, eating healthy...and laughing. Yes, laughter, it lightens the load! I've added it to my morning routine of stretching, affirmations & light exercise, and it really does help, even if it's the opposite of what I'm feeling at the moment. That old adage 'Laughter is the best medicine' is true; it changes your mindset.

Staying busy & active proves to be a plus in general, so I've been walking when weather permits, completing projects with my name on them, communicating with family & friends when & however possible, creating new pieces to upload [like this 'something borrowed' redesign greeting card], supporting my fellow women artists-photogs by hosting my 'A Woman's Touch' group & a ton of contests promoting members' work, keeping the home fires burning, enjoying discovering new places, movies & recipes, and planning my spring garden! It's never too early for that. Can't wait to get down & dirty in the garden again. I miss the sunshine and running out to the door every chance I get to dig, plant weed, enjoy and snap a few shots. My camera's always nearby!

So, PEACE & JOY, yes, it can happen even when everything around you says 'not so much'! Don't let the negative sway you, hypnotize you, bring you down. Of course, some of that can't be avoided, especially when you or a loved one becomes ill, finances cause too-big-to-handle problems & you don't have something to fall back on, or you can't, for the life of you, understand WHY some people in our country think or act as they do! But, there is a PEACE within & surrounding us all that is more powerful than all that, a.k.a. the 'reason for the season'! Here's to generating more and longer-lasting 'peaceful easy feelings'.

Blessings of Comfort & Joy,
Brooks

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' below to see my 'Images' gallery, Bio or 'About', 'Collections, 'Contests' [I'm hosting], my 'Favorites', my 'Blog', etc. There are tabs for all those things just above the images when you get there. Enjoy!

One safe affordable way to shake up your routine is planning a short vacay to a 'faraway' place! You can still 'make it work' in these trying 'staying-close-to-home' days & months by following some simple commonsense rules. Exciting new adventures await, if your health permits and you are able to schedule some free getaway time!

A BIG birthday [mine!] last week gave my husband & me the chance to plan our 'escape', as we were not going to be able to invite friends or family to celebrate. Plus, we're just kinda tired of doing & seeing the same old things in this same old little [but beautiful] town. Happily, we got to spend an entire week in one of my favorite places, the northern WA coast! We didn't know how much we needed to get away...until we went! It wasn't 'perfect', no, hardly any vacation is, but it was perfect enough for us to merit 4.50 stars out of 5! Not shabby.

In a nutshell, our 8 day getaway included ~ a luxury waterfront hotel & vrbo cottage, ferry rides & islands, several museums & art galleries, many walks-hikes, lakes & countryside, autumn leaves & scenic vistas, lots of healthy salads & fruit, stormy weather & sunshine, an REI purchase [headbands - it was cold!], lol, friendly people, a resident [hotel] bunny and the perfect rug shop. We owned our own Oriental carpet shop here in Ashland for many years, so we always appreciate a well-stocked & decorated rug shop. Must mention one of the museums featuring the origins of electricity & energy had a far-out light show that would delight people of all ages! Fun times with John!

Next trip we rent a sailboat to visit our favorite islands [Orcas & San Juan] and spend more time in my new favorite small town Lynden, just a few miles north of Bellingham near the Canadian border = neat, orderly, charming. So Dutch! Enjoy this sunset photo taken outside our Bellingham hotel room ~ the calm after the storm. Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' to see my Artist Website! If that's not enough and you want to see MORE pictures taken on our WA trip, visit my Fb Timeline: Brooks Leath Garten Hauschild.

Thank you...and have a great week! Oh, and check out my fabulous NEW group when you get a minute. It's called 'A Woman's Touch'...and we've been ranked in the 'Very High' group activity list since week one, as well as one of the 'featured' groups here on site. We've grown to 782 members [all women artists & photographers] in our first 180 days, which is a-mazing. So, if you are a woman [of course], have an avatar [profile picture], a bio [About] and a wonderful portfolio, come join us! Read our 'Overview' first & check out our numerous 'Discussions' threads to see if you are a good fit for our group!

"At 28, I was suddenly widowed and childless. Devastated with grief at the tragic deaths of my husband and 8-year-old son in an automobile accident, my life was truly in chaos. I was lost, alone and completely unaware of how to live in a world without them. That same year, I survived not only their sudden passing, but the loss of both my maternal grandparents, two beloved pets, my home, as well as major life-altering surgery. Not knowing which way to go or what to do, I found myself on an endless journey of survival...and exploration."

The above is a portion of the 'Introduction' to a collection of my poetry and photography, titled "With Each Breath", one of two books I wrote some time ago, available in stores locally and on line. Now, all these years later, I am in the midst of re-editing and updating this collection.

Writing 'With Each Breath' initially was a healing process: sometimes difficult, sometimes releasing, always worth the time it took for me to come to terms with this terrible event. Even now, all these years later, it is hard. There is always a hole that will never be filled when you lose a child. Some of the poems are heart-wrenching, some are inspiring, others simply tell the story of how I coped, what I went though, how I felt then...and for years afterward.

My path has not been easy, but along the way I found some answers and learned to accept my life with all its beauty, tragedy and flaws. In time, I also found new love and purpose in my life. Sharing our stories and experiences brings us together, lifting us out of ourselves and allowing a bond of greater empathy, compassion and respect.

The following is one of the 30+ poems gracing the pages of this collection ~


Pears & Roses

In my lovely garden
grows a tree and a rose bush
planted in your memory.
One bears the fruit of three
varieties of pears, the other,
delicately-scented crimson flowers.

Pictures of you
sit nestled among the others
decorating the shelves and walls
of our beautiful home.

On Mother’s Day
my sweet husband gives me a card
he signs with your name.

Every January 9th
I make a wish and softly sing
“Happy birthday, dear Jassen.”

Now and then
you come to life in my dreams
and I wake up smiling…
most of the time.



Are you somewhere
wandering about a garden
full of roses blooming wildly
surrounded by pear trees
laden with fruit?

Do you happily hum a song
I taught you as a child…
and think of me?



It’s a beautiful vision.



That’s what I’m left with,
these dreams and visions,
these memories
of you.

~Brooks Garten Hauschild


Thank you for taking the time to read this blog and share your comments. Shown here, the back cover. To read more of my FAA blogs, click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below.

In Honor of My Sister ~

My older sister [by 5 years] Ann, or 'Annie', was an Iron Man Triathlete! She was a favorite dental hygienist during her many years residing in San Diego, CA. She was a true friend, loving sister, aunt & birth mom, nature & animal lover and world traveler. Sadly, neither Ann or our family got to celebrate her birthday this year on September 20th. She passed away unexpectedly in late July. I created a beautiful photo collage as a memorial to pass around to family & friends, as a service was not warranted, both by Ann wishes & the pandemic situation. My youngest sister Jo was able to tend her at the very end, and made preparations for her cremains to be delivered in 3 beautiful angel figurines, which arrived recently, one for each of the remaining sisters, the now 3 Leath girls, P.K.'s as they used to call us, meaning 'preacher's kids'. Our father was a well-known Baptist preacher from the South, then in CA, and then TX. Our mother passed away when she was 43 and I was 10. My dad remarried, and after a spell, they moved from SoCal closer to 'home' [Houston], so he could accept a teaching position as Professor of Theology at HBU. That's where he lived until his death some years ago.

Ann is the first of the sisters to enter her Heavenly home. Like I said, it was unexpected, but not entirely, as she was dealing with symptoms of a milder form of Parkinson's disease, which was progressing. The fact that the diagnosis came so soon after her early retirement was hugely disappointing, for her and us, for so many reasons. One being that she had prepared so richly to enjoy her retirement, working non-stop for years. And, two, she has always been an athlete & traveler, used to being independent & active. So, it was a shock that she dealt with, still spending time with friends & creating a life, albeit a much more limited one than she was used to. She stayed closer & closer to her home, stopped cycling & running, and finally driving. Friends would come pick her up for outings ~ a 'Sit & Be Fit' class, dinner & a movie or a trip to the local library, helping her all the way.

Unfortunately, last summer Ann had a terrible reaction to one of the drugs she was prescribed used to treat Parkinson's symptoms, and after some hospitalization, needed to be admitted to a nearby care facility for an amount of time. Jo found one that looked & sounded good just a couple of blocks from her home, peaceful & clean w-a lot of staff & activities. For a care facility, it would work for the time being. I must mention that neither Ann nor her family was told of the side effects of the drug she was given, which made her condition much more dire, and meant that she could no longer that something to relieve her symptoms. She would have to make do.

Before the PD, but right after retirement, Ann had packed up & moved from San Diego, her home of 45 years, to VA. That did not work out as planned, so she returned to CA to be neighbors w-Jo near Palm Springs, buying & remodeling her home, purchasing a new car. This was to be her forever home.

During the Covid scare onslaught, while Ann was still living at the facility [after her home was sold & she could no longer care for herself], she was virtually on her own. The staff became overwhelmed, some quit, and because she was dependent and not one to speak out, she was neglected. Jo was frantic to care for Ann, as she had been doing on a daily basis before the virus hit & a little while afterward, but the facility was put on lock down. Jo could not get to her, so she made numerous calls & wrote numerous letters telling those in charge what our sister needed, and that she could not take care of herself. She also could not care for her two beloved elderly cats, and no one came to help. In fact, they were both put to sleep, her old rescue cats, Sunshine & Anita. So sad.

Ann was getting only minimum care at this point, and had become frail & bedridden. She could not even text or talk on the phone, so it was difficult to know what was happening behind closed doors. Ann, we heard, was also in terrible pain and, we found out later, had been taken to the ER several times. During the last visit, the doctor notified Jo, as her next of kin & POA, that he had [finally!] given Ann a Cat scan that showed some malignant growths, and that he subsequently was able to diagnose that she indeed was also suffering from cancer! Another shock. That was when Jo made a plan to 'free' Ann from the facility, which she did, miraculously, without their permission and despite their opposition. 'Operation rescue' was put into action with all our consent. Jo gave the facility legal notice, organized the movers and, via a small window of opportunity, was somehow allowed to enter the premises, pack & clean the apartment, get Ann safely into her van, and leave! She told us that during the move she felt like she was having a heart attack because of being in such a hurry, sure they would try to stop her! Luckily, she had found a small home for Ann in the 55+ gated community near her own, gathered several care givers for support & created a comfortable peaceful space where Ann could rest and hopefully regain her strength to the degree that she could enjoy her remaining time in a loving caring environment. At least that was the plan, one that was not meant to be.

Within weeks it was apparent that Ann would not make it much longer, certainly nowhere near the time first thought. The rescue mission turned into a mission to make her last days happy & comfortable, as much as possible. My husband & I drove non-stop [no flying!] to SoCal to be at her side. It was a shock to see how much she had changed since we had seen her in October during a mini family reunion held there at the facility when it was still a 'happy' place to be. Ann never lost her sense of humor! Even when we were making conversation, thinking she was sleeping or not listening, out of the blue she would make a comment that made everyone laugh. A week after we returned home, bless her heart, Ann passed away, quietly.

We are just now coming to terms with Ann's loss; we are missing an important sister link in our lives. It's especially hard-hitting when you lose a sibling, a swift reminder that life is short and that our own time draws ever nearer. I've had a lot of loss in my life, the most difficult being my first husband of 10 years & only child, who was just 8 years old, who both died tragically in a semi-auto accident. I've had to learn to live with deep loneliness, sadness & grief, and still make a life that's worth living. Remarrying, many years later, has given me love & happiness. Loss never 'goes away', the grief; time just passes, and you continue to mourn in different ways. You continue on as you know your loved ones would wish.

One of the gifts I received in honor of my sister, was a lovely bouquet of flowers from my step sons & their families, which contained several beautiful roses. The one I chose to photograph, which you see here, is now called 'A Rose for Annie' in her memory. Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below to see & read more about this special rose.

~Brooks

Every season has its own special beauty, but with my favorite beckoning, it will soon be the time of year when all gardens are pretty much equal! Until last week when I took this photo of my still-blossoming 'Blanket Flowers', I could claim bragging rights as one of the showiest in the neighborhood...and my neighbors would approve this message, lol! Although we are having an unexpected late-summer heat wave here in the PNW, most plants & trees are on the wane and leaves are turning their usual autumn colors. As the temps cool [next week] and the falling leaves begin covering everyone's formerly manicured, sculpted & beloved garden-yards, we are all one, it seems. Even the worst yard, the one or two in the hood no one tends or cares about, is the same as the best, especially when the winter doldrums arrive & the first snow sheds it's 'blanket' of white. C'est la vie, speaking strictly for gardens in my neck of the woods, of course. Some of you have the luxury of year-round gardening!

Late fall & winter give us a bit of a rest, so we can get excited for spring's arrival with renewed energy to tend our gardens once more. Not that we aren't busy working a winter garden, not to mention all the pruning, etc., but it's a lot less work. And, when spring does finally come, there will be less complaining from me as we had to take down a large redwood last summer that shed a ton of needles each fall-winter for the past 21 years. I used to dread that part of the annual cleanup, as no matter what we came up with to collect the needles, it never quite worked! I don't allow blowers or vacuums either; too loud, obnoxious & disruptive for both plants & bugs, so we, I, would get out there & remove them by hand. Tedious! The layers of leaves our lovely oaks, madrona, pines, fruit trees, etc., contribute generously just add to the mix. Sometimes we just rake them up in piles & let them sit, which allows for a rich mulch. Yep, it's a labor of love, our garden, and we do it without outside help...except, of course, the occasional tree removal guys! They are really something, btw.

As the weather cools more drastically & the rain-snow descends, most of us begin to switch it up from time spent outdoors to spending more & more time indoors, unless you are a winter sports enthusiast, of course, and even then you will need to come in from the cold to warm your bones! Most of us, like I said, begin to embrace the special comforts of homey activities, like Scrabble, puzzles, fireside chats, sipping a hot cup of tea or spiced cider, reading, watching old movies & getting cozy in a soft cuddly blanket. That reminds me, my 'Blanket Flowers' on a BLANKET, in this case 'fleece', would make the perfect pop of color for your own warm & fuzzy collection...or a comforting gift for family or friends! Check out the other options, too, like fine art prints [matted & framed], totes, greeting cards & more.

Click on the 'Click Here for More Information' tab just below to see this image & print options! Check out ALL my 'Images' & 'Collections' while there, as well. Please note ~ our Pixels.com sites offer more of a selection for purchase, but remember to return here to Fine Art America in order to leave a comment on our blogs! It's just set up that way for some odd reason. Questions are always welcome!

Enjoy the change of seasons! And cross fingers re the November election...may the BEST man [and woman] win to restore sanity!

~Brooks

It's unbelievable [to me] that I have not sold ONE print of 'Dancing for Joy'!? It's astonishing, actually, since it's one of my most beloved & popular paintings over the years. I've sold many prints on my own & elsewhere, but none here on FAA-Pixels. So, what gives, you ask? I have no Earthly idea!

'Dancing for Joy', one of my 1st uploads when joining some years ago, has been featured in over 30 groups [with one super feature & two special features], won & placed in 11 contests, shows 228 comments and has 3,654 views! When I promote it on social media, it always receives a wonderful outpouring of love &support. So, I'll say it again, it's unbelievable that not one person has been moved to purchase a print of this beautiful painting! My prices are very reasonable & fair, and there are many print options available. Plus, it reproduces beautifully, true to color. Yep, I'm perplexed.

This amazing 36 x 48 acrylic is beautifully rendered, colorful, flowing & looks amazing on the wall! I know, because the original hangs in my living room over the fireplace...and I get to enjoy it everyday. Here's hoping that this unfortunate stalemate changes very soon. I'm trusting that it will!

On that note, click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below to see & learn more about this painting, shown here as a fine art print w-simple black frame! Share it with your friends, help me promote it and, hopefully, a $ale will follow in the next few days. I'll let you know!!

Thanks, everyone. Stay safe...and always creative!

If you're anything like me, and an artist, you probably have a few unfinished canvases hanging around needing some creative TLC! I spent many years painting & drawing, but in the last 5 years or more, I just have not been motivated to paint!! I've tried, but the feeling only lasts a day, then I'm back to my beloved photography! It may have something to do with my ability to sit or stand for hours upon end. I'm not as young as I used to be!

With so many tools available at the click of a mouse, and the option of digital art, I just can't seem to make myself stay focused long enough to paint on canvas. That's most likely because I put my heart, body & Soul into each painting, which requires patience & long hours. I get consumed by a painting! So, when I have a chance to sit & create these days, it's usually straight to the computer rather than the easel! Maybe one day that will change...for longer than a day? Is there such a thing as painter's block, I wonder!

I'm very happy I was able to finish SO many paintings before 'the drought' hit, and even happier to be able to offer some of them as fine art prints. I have quite a lot of paintings & drawings, but sadly not every one is available as a print.

The logo image shown to the left is one I'm 'working' on, or rather it's sitting right here next to me 'begging' for attention. I threw caution to the wind the other day and painted for a few hours, but nothing noteworthy. I will try again when the spirit is willing. I'd love to finish this green-turquoise piece all about renewal & hope. Wish me well!

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below to visit my Artist Website! Be sure to scroll down to view my 'Collections' and 'Images' portfolio!

WOMEN ~ you are invited to join this exciting NEW group created especially for us! We are growing rapidly ~ nearing 500 members, and ranking in the 'Very High' group activity rating since our first week!

In this group, you can expect an eclectic array of creative works celebrating the Feminine: Body, Mind & Spirit! This very special forum presents ~ Original Artwork, Photography, Digital Art, Mixed Media & more ~ by WOMEN members of Fine Art America - Pixels.com around the globe. From tasteful She-shed Art to beautiful Landscapes, from provocative Floral Macros to alluring Fractals, from pensive Portraiture to exotic Wildlife, from sumptuous Paintings to the mysterious Imaginative ~ EVERY space NEEDS 'a woman's touch'!

Our HOMEPAGE is unique among the many groups, not just in the sense that we showcase amazing, beautiful, tasteful art & photography, BUT that it is assembled in an artful eye-catching way twice a week to benefit our members' work.

VISITORS can view our 'Featured' works, as well as the pages of 'Images', which can be accessed by clicking on the 'Images' tab. PLEASE feel free to contact the artists about their work!!

MEMBERS are invited to share their wonderful works and join any 'Discussion' thread they prefer! I will host myriad contests to help promote our work & the group! Every Sunday, a NEW member will be chosen in our 'Up Close & Personal' SPECIAL homepage feature. Together, we will make this a super creative, supportive, inspiring, successful group!

Click on the link here to learn more...and join if you'd like!

Logo image: Japanese Magnolia by Brooks Garten Hauschild.

I first wrote & shared this in the 'Community Discussions' forum 5 years ago, before Pixels! We had 19,210 views & 302 comments! I think it's time to share it again, as a BLOG!

ME [initial post] ~
"I don't say 'thank you' nearly enough, especially when I'm feeling overworked & under-appreciated. I know a lot of you feel the same way, so here's a chance for us to voice our gratitude for Fine Art America! Let me begin by 'simply' saying...I'm very grateful for all that FAA provides:
[1] a fabulous site that's easy to navigate & relatively pain-free; [2] a community discussion forum that 'gives as good as it gets'; easy access for marketing & sharing our work; [3] the opportunity to find others of similar persuasion & become 'friends'; [4] generally reliable customer service & prompt replies to our questions/concerns; a member's blog; [5] contests to enter and/or host for those of us with a competitive streak; [6] numerous groups to join; an amazing fine art website...and; [7] finally, a great product, our works of art!
In the spirit of 'THANKS' giving, I'd love to hear your positive thoughts & experiences re Fine Art America!"

Following are a few of the many comments that members posted in the original thread:

FLOYD ~ WOW! What a great thread! So nice to see the upside celebrated instead of the minor problems beat to death! The positives here out weigh those negative like a great white wale out weigh a the tiny flea. I applaud you, Brooks, for giving us all an opportunity to show how grateful we are for the opportunity that Sean and the entire staff at FAA has given us.
And I give special thanks to Abbie for how well she does a difficult job. And of course all the people like JC that although he occasionally goes flying off into the great, blue, sky (I mean he actually does fly off into the great, blue, sky! lol) he helps to keep the rest of us grounded! Great big way to go to everyone at FAA including those who's names we are not that familiar with but do a great job for us. THANK YOU ALL!

MICHAEL ~ I'm grateful as well. FAA has become indispensable to me and I'm learning more about it's potential all the time. My most recent lights on moment concerning FAA is as follows: I started my Wordpress Blog a few years back and it's definitely taken on a life of its own. At that time I discovered that maintaining my own gallery page was cumbersome and that is when I discovered Fine Art America. It was such an easy solution to just re-direct my gallery page to FAA. Now, several years later I am discovering a dynamic and interactive community at FAA and I'm thinking why not re-direct my FAA blog page to Wordpress, in other words use the FAA blog tab to re-direct to Wordpress.

COLLEEN ~ have to agree! Love FAA, I'm so happy I stumbled upon this site years ago. I love how my work can now be seen all over the world, and for that I'm grateful, that would never had happened without FAA. My work has now been sold across the USA and Internationally, is hanging in Hospital lobbies, has been licensed as RM work, and has brought me several interior design inquiries. So thanks again FAA for creating a platform for my work!!I also love the inspiration I get from all the other fantastic artists--

CASCADES COLORS [Lynn] ~ FAA has already been of great value to me, and I've only been on for about 7 months. I made a sale (yay! And a nice one), and hopefully I have some more in my future. But more than the sale, it has opened up opportunities for me. I was found on FAA, and contacted, to participate in an expo early last month, so I had my first ever booth due to FAA. Now the expo was a huge flop, in terms of attendance, but I met a few other artists there, one who gave me input and thoughts on my facebook page, which was much appreciated, and I've kept in touch with the other, and through the other, learned of another holiday show, which I will also be participating in. Meeting people through that.... and I can envision more opportunities arising as a result. Slowly over time. Also, I've really enjoyed viewing other artists' work, and I think it's good for me to be more exposed to the varying styles and techniques, I enjoy learning and also just reflecting on the myriad of ways people express themselves. So, yeah. That's my story, FAA's been great for me. When I look beyond the POD sales aspect, which has been lackluster, but I'm not complaining about my one sale :), the indirect benefits have been pretty great.

GINETTE ~ FAA is THE BEST site right now for people with images they want to showcase or sell; it'll do just that. The images look great, I like the look of the site, the fact there are no constant changes, no 50% off where I eat the cost, and setting my own markup. On FAA I don't feel like I am working for someone else. In all these years, I never really needed tech support, until now where I have problem with the watermarks. So I hope that will be fixed for me soon. Abbie is great. She's handling it. There is always room for improvement and I wish there were some flexibility and imagination at work, on coming up with way, to improve upon how art is found to get some exposure from time to time. But that involves hiring people and people cost money. But hey, I won't let that keep me down! I always got something in the works, irons in the fire as they say."FAA is in the house!"

PATRICIA ~ I like everything about FAA -- going on four years now, for me. Easy to navigate and keep up with what other artists are doing. The artwork here is phenomenal. I was even lucky enough to make a few sales, without marketing. A bonus are the discussions. I can go days at a time without actually speaking to a soul, yet I know I can come here and "talk." For that I am ever so grateful. And who better to talk with than artists!

ME ~ Thanks for ALL the wonderful comments, everyone! I can't tell you how much better it feels to be coming from a grateful space than the opposite. Encouraged & uplifted, to say the least.
Floyd, Lisa, Nicole & Roy, good to hear from each of you.
Mel, you are one of those we can learn from...and, yes, here's to a very successful holiday $ales period! Good to hear from you.
Hi Kelley, always room for learning...and you are right, FAA is a great place to 'mingle', meet friends and gain new insight.
Joseph, congratulations on your sale! Good to 'see' you. Thanks for your feedback, as well, Cascade Colors! And, Richard, too...appreciate your concurring.
Jai, wonderful words from you, as always. Good to connect with you on FAA...and Tamara, as well. Thanks for your comments.
Hi Bob! Enjoy your work, posts & positive energy. Thanks! And, yes, those 'unexpected bonuses' are always a welcomed surprise!
Frank! You are so right; FAA is like NO other...and I speak from experience, as do most of you. Some truly great artists & art on FAA. Always good to get your input/advice.
Nava, what can I say! I'm blessed to have found you on FAA! Thank you for your kind words, humor, talent and support. I am going to check-out your newest inspired-garden upload, my namesake. Congratulations on your sale, btw!
Yes, Anita, so true. It IS the little things. Thanks for noticing...and reminding us.
Patricia, I appreciate your posts/comments in the discussions. Always good to hear from you.
You're welcome, Michael, my pleasure. Thank YOU for your upbeat positive attitude about life...and FAA!
Thanks, Floyd! You are so right, the positive outweighs any negative, by far. And, applause, applause to the staff here at FAA, yes. A note re Jeffrey...I once asked him for advice, to which he promptly replied in amazing detail, about how I might take my gallery/artist's website to the next level. Forever grateful.
BIG "thank you's" all around! Looking forward to hearing more!

To end ~ This was one of the BEST threads ever in the forum...positive, popular, encouraging. Things have changed a bit since then with Pixels now sharing space with FAA and, because of that, we have a lot more products available, as well as issues arising re on site. Most of the same people are still here, though, and still connecting in the 'Community Discussions' arena, which says a lot about the longevity & popularity of this site!

FYI ~ If you click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below, it will take you to the original thread. Time flies!!

Logo image : 'I Second That Emotion', secondary colors rose silhouette triptych, rose taken in the garden w-colorful backgrounds. See my 'Images' for this image & more!

Since I was a small child, I've been drawn to the creative side of life! I began playing piano by ear as a toddler, and actually remember sitting at our upright piano in the sun-room in that large parsonage where we lived in a little central TX town. I would plunk away while the sun streaked through & the breeze gently stirred the sheer white floor-length curtains. My mother said I'd come home from church [Daddy was a preacher] and play hymns that I'd heard...with 2 hands! I still compose & play by ear today. I also read music, although I was never one for proper lessons. My mother did not want to ruin my innate ability, for which I'm grateful. My father was an accomplished pianist, as well.

Drawing came next; I was always drawing ~ people, places & things. Charcoal, graphite, colored pencils, pastel pencils & ink were my tools. I also began to write prose & poetry to accompany the drawings, like storybooks. For some reason, I've always loved gathering & compiling a bunch of information and whittling it down to a comprehensive entertaining summary. I've created two poetry books ~ one on grief & loss, and the other about love, both of which were for sale on Amazon. This winter, I plan to re-edit & offer them anew. I'm already in the process of. Plus, there's a 3rd in the initial stages of being about the joys of gardening. Where will I find the time!?

Painting began with watercolors. I enjoyed it so much, that several of my very first attempts are available as fine art prints here on site! Pastel paintings & drawings were next in line, mostly soft pastel, many of which are also here for purchase, In fact, some are my most popular on site & elsewhere, including 'Shedding a Little Light on the Situation', 'In Beauty I Walk' & 'Noteworthy', the latter being my most popular image here as far as sales. I 'graduated' into acrylics and really went WILD creating large colorful canvases, both figurative & abstract, many of which are also here for your viewing pleasure & purchase, including, 'Imagine', 'Dancing for Joy' & 'Aria! All of the pieces I have mentioned can be seen on page ONE of my 'Images'. Several have been featured in magazines & on covers.

My current & longtime favorite art form is photography. I always wanted to be a travel photographer, but, as it has turned out, I don't really travel all that much! I'm quite satisfied [for the most part!] being a resident nature photographer here in southern OR, and mainly via my beautiful garden. All I have to do is step out the door, and voila, beauty & wildlife all around! The floral & nature photography available in my gallery is fresh from the garden, including the framed & matted logo image you see here, 'Last Yellow Rose of Summer'. Several of my photographs recently made the loop on our public broadcasting channel, which was a nice surprise & honor to see during a break in one of our favorite programs!

I love creating garden spaces & interior sanctuaries, as well. Though I am not 'trained' in either, I am blessed with an artistic vision & drive, and have happily helped others with interior decorating ideas, transforming their gardens spaces, as well as themselves! Color, flow & organization are key.

Along the way, I also did a few 'crafty' things ~ macrame, decorative mirrored pieces, designer throw pillows & more. I'm a seamstress, too, making most of my own clothes as a teen & mother back in the day. I loved creating my own patterns, veering from the norm, and really wish I would have kept more of those wonderfully unique & detailed outfits!

In the 80's, I went to Hollywood and did the acting-singing-dancing thing. That was quite the adventure! I met a lot of folks in show biz, which was a hoot. I was lucky to find a cool voice teacher who was vocal coach to 'the stars'. His mansion in the hills, the former home of Clark Gable, was a happy place where we students would perform showcases, practicing our skills, songs & shtick, and then take them to venues all over Hollywood & the valley, including the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Playboy Club & Improv Club on Melrose Blvd.! So much fun. Did a little modeling, too.

I moved up to my beautiful little southern OR hamlet after that, and used my education & experience to be a spokesperson in TV commercials & radio voice-over. I was lucky to nab some acting roles in plays, educational films & musicals. Also auditioned for movies and got close to getting a big break, but never did. Still had a ball!

I finally got that formal' education, graduating Southern Oregon University [summa cum laude] with a degree in Communication, emphasis on broadcasting w-minors in drama & art. My on-air partner & I received an A-P Honorable Mention Award in Radio News for presenting features & news on the Jefferson Daily ~ the very first news show on-air at our local university FM station...and the very first award received! That station now reaches millions in a number of states! I did enjoy collecting, writing & reading the news, as well as hosting several music shows, including a classical music hour, a jazz program & more. It was nice to work behind the scenes for a change!

Like many artists, I go through ups & downs re the creative process. For a while, I was able to go back 'n forth rather freely between any or all of my passions, but now, it seems that one takes precedence over the others...and I try to follow through to the end. Maybe it's an age thing?! Currently, photography is numero uno. I do have a number of paintings near completion staring at me right here in the studio, but, though I've tried, I have little desire or energy to finish them right now. I've got to FEEL 'it'. Same with music, my piano is just a few feet from where I'm sitting and I hardly notice it some days. When the time is right, I figure! I need to finish up recording some original piano compositions, as well as redo a few vocals on several songs I've written. There are not enough hours in the day!

If I'm not actually hands-on creating something, I'm thinking about it, which is all part of the process. I'm hoping it doesn't take until I'm Grandma Moses' age to 'come into my own', lol, but, if that's the way things are meant to be, so be it. I've stayed true to my calling [did I have a choice], honed my talents and have always done my best. All the time, energy, promotion, marketing & money spent for various related needs can make the creative process more tedious, but I try to remain focused. It may not have, yet, yielded me a great income, but what a grand profession, to be an 'artiste'!

For over 20 years, my husband John & I operated an Oriental carpet & art gallery downtown. What a great place, two-stories worth, to hang my paintings & welcome customers! I was spoiled. We closed up shop some years ago, but we still miss our customers & being more a part of the community festivities. Fortunately, we are still a part of the annual 'Taste of Ashland', a gallery-sponsored food, wine-tasting & art event.

Currently, I've chosen to concentrate only on Fine Art America-Pixels.com as my POD shop and exhibit my work in a small local gallery. I've nixed all other POD shops & eliminated my personal website, using instead our artist websites that FAA-Pixels offers us with our premium membership. This Covid-19 pandemic, the social distancing & sheltering in place, has given me extra time to cleanup my gallery, upload new pieces, support others...and create a NEW group for women artists & photographers called 'A Woman's Touch"! We've zoomed from 1 to 414 members in just two months of conception and have been ranked in the 'Very High' group activity rating since week one, which is amazing. If you're a woman & a member, come join us!

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link below to check out 'A Woman's Touch'!!


[Logo image: 'Last Yellow Rose of Summer' taken in the garden. For your viewing pleasure, I have matted & framed this image to show you just one of the many choices available when choosing the 'Framed Prints' option. You can also purchase it as a fine art print, mug, tote, pouch & more.]

Our bios & avatars can turn people on...or turn them off. What we choose to say about ourselves & the profile picture we pick to share are SO important when letting others know who we are as artists & people! I enjoy taking a few minutes to read what members write after putting a face to the art.

Sometimes, I will contact a member to let them know I liked what they said, especially when they have a way with words. I think most of us are naturally curious about our fellow artists, so if I'm able to find out what makes them 'tick' on a personal level, and learn a little about their creative process, I, along w-potential buyers & patrons, will appreciate the 'effort'. More importantly, I might even make a new friend in the process! For a fun break, I will also, from time to time, assist members w-editing their bios [when asked], something I do in the 'real world', as well.

Initially, my bio, which is now seen via the 'About' tab, contained a lot of info that I thought visitors might find interesting, like my published poetry collections, honors-awards received along the way & more details re my artistic experience. But, after some reflection & on the advice of a couple of well-respected members I asked who [wisely] said "make it about the art & photography, get to the point and don't be too flowery", I refined & downsized.

Our avatars are super important, too, since they are the first thing people see when they visit our profiles-galleries! I prefer mine to be a recent photo, warm, inviting, friendly. But, an artsy version would work, too! I also like showcasing my 'Images', instead of 'Collections', to offer an immediate eclectic sampling of things-to-come. Patrons are directed to view the latter via my bio, which, unfortunately, can now ONLY be read by clicking on the 'About', instead of seeing it automatically under our avatars like before, which I preferred! C'est la vie.

Anyway, here's my revised bio:

"Welcome to my world of art and photography! Please enjoy my 'Images', 'Blog', 'Favorites' & more. Click on the 'Collections' tab to see specific categories. Always drawn to the creative side of life, I'm a visual artist, photographer, musician-singer-songwriter, poet, designer, gardener...wife, mother, sister, grandmother, survivor!

Primarily acrylic on canvas & pastel, my artwork ranges from figurative-representational pieces to flowing organic creations to things 'purely' abstract. Described as '[e]motion expressed with the language of color' and 'Soul made visible', my work is a 'combination of intuition & intention'. Nature, music, love and life itself are my inspiration[s] in both my art and photography. All the floral photography seen in my gallery is from my own garden. I am passionate about both ~ photography & gardening!

I've published a couple of my own poetry-photography collections and also created illustrations for several other authors. Honored to have my work featured in & on a variety of magazines, travel the globe and exhibited in numerous galleries & elsewhere for over 30 years. I'm thrilled to offer YOU a wide selection of fine art prints via FAA-Pixels.com! Some are displayed in a series of 3 or 4 to give you more variety, visual impact & hanging options. I've also included 'Art 4 Kids', prints that will inspire our 'little ones' and help them learn to spell, as well!

Born In New Orleans, I've lived & worked in southern OR since 1985. Visit often! I'm always adding new pieces and 'fine-tuning' my gallery.

CONTACT INFO ~ Send me a private message any time. You can also friend me on Facebook! For more print options, click 'Contact' [me], 'Visit Website', then 'Shop ~ All Products'. I'm the administrator of an on-site group, A Woman's Touch, which features women artists & photographers. Check us out!

Note: ALL images here & elsewhere are copyright protected and not to be reproduced, manipulated or used in any manner whatsoever without my written permission. Click on any image to see larger version, description & print options."

P.S. I miss those super cool 'Revolver Maps' visuals many of us had installed showing our visitors from all over the world! They were ousted during some recent updating by the site. I get it that they need to change things up at will and some options go by the wayside, but, still, it would have been nice to be asked what we thought. You can still enjoy the slideshow widget though, which remains via my Artist Website. Please take a moment & visit.

~ Brooks

PLEASE feel free to add your two cents re!

Welcome to 'Imagine', an original acrylic painting, and the most POPULAR image in my entire gallery!! Here's the dilemma ~ this amazing piece has not been selling! I'm [almost!] at a loss for words as to WHY this is, since fellow members have voted for it; visitors viewed it; and myriad friends & strangers commented on, faved & liked it. In fact, 'Imagine' has 27 contest WINS to its credit ~ placing 1st in 13, 2nd in 8, and 3rd in 6...and received 4,287+ views! Go figure, because I can't!

I have certainly done MY part ~ actually creating 'Imagine' in the first place, promoting it, sharing on social media, talking about it & using the image as a logo in some of the myriad contests I have hosted. When people near & far tell me daily how MUCH they love it, it's hard to believe the lack of sales. Interestingly, I have sold many prints off-site, but hardly any to speak of here! I can't 'imagine' why buyers are not moved to purchase prints of such a soulful, heartfelt piece w-a message of peace when it is SO loved? I certainly hope part of the reason isn't too-high shipping costs? I've heard some say costs are higher in certain areas of the country and-or abroad? I don't know; could be. I'm sort of grasping at straws here. But, if true, then that's just sad for so many reasons.

FYI ~ a print of 'Imagine' looks amazing in real life ~ very clear imagery, colorful, uplifting. Maybe the NEW YEAR will bring about the change I'm looking for! That would be a blessing, since this painting was created as & meant to be a blessing to others! Click on the 'Click Here for More Information' LINK below to learn more about 'Imagine' & view all print options! 'Imagine' is also available as art-only [without the added border & title]. See PAGE ONE of my 'Images' to view 3 different versions ~ one art only and two w-added border & title.

Peace, and good health, to all.

~Brooks

Click on the 'Click Here For More Information' link just below to see & learn about more about this work of art!

In times like these, we need supportive uplifting messages, imagery, friends, music & more to ease our worries and inspire us to maintain a sense of balance & calm. When life comes to a screeching halt for so many, or seems to, for whatever reason, we must rise above, if able, and do what we can to help. I'd rather be part of the solution than the problem. Our hearts go out to all the hardworking healthcare workers around the world, risking their own lives to save others, and those experiencing hardship of any kind due to Covid-19...physically, emotionally, financially, mentally, spiritually.

Many of us already working from home, or homebodies in general, are not as affected by the sheltering-in-place [choice or orders] as are the extroverts among us or those used to being out & about. We creative, usually more introverted, types can spend hours exploring, brainstorming, creating, organizing & communicating, all from our warm & cozy homes. Most of us have been choosing to stay home, to physical distance, for our own safety, as well as others. If we use our time wisely, there is much we can do, like complete projects we never had time for before! Families are coming together w-the home schooling & stay-at-home activities. Friends & family are checking in more often. Some are learning 'new skills', such as cooking, cleaning & reading [lol]. Some are simply using this time for quiet contemplation or being in nature. Others are focusing on their health & exercise. Still others are getting caught up on some well-needed rest. Some of us are doing ALL the aforementioned! Planet Earth is also getting a little R & R, which she richly deserves. Too bad China is already back in the market place, selling bat parts, among other things! When will people learn to treat animals, others & our Earth w-respect! That would be a welcomed change.

As the hours & days tick on & by [April Fool's day passed w-out notice, for once], I am busy w-new works of art & photography, getting the spring garden ready for summer [weather permitting], venturing out only for the basic necessities, enjoying time w-my husband John, watching some good movies, supporting my immune system, taking long walks and staying connected w-family. No, I don't 'like' not being able to go out when or where or w-whomever I want, but I have found new friends & sense of community by checking in w-others to see if THEY need anything! As long as I remain healthy, I will be available to others. Before this, I would tend to isolate. Now that we MUST do that, I am wanting to reach out & support others in ways that I can. I can't wait to meet up w-friends now! The pendulum swings!

One way for me to reach out here is to offer more contests that uplift! Check out my latest posted today, "Lighten Up", and enter if you have an image that fits. Also, find fellow artists or photographers who work inspires you & let them know. Post something in the 'Community Discussions'. Comment-like-fave on your favorite group administrator's images. Write a new blog. Upload beautiful images & offer a discount. We can physical, not social distance!

John & I, after 4 weeks, still cannot find any rubbing alcohol, gloves or masks on the shelves of any store in our little town! We finally made the latter our selves...and you can tell. But, if it works, then good for us. Luckily, TP is back in circulation! Have never been one to use hand-sanitizers, but am a regular hand-washer; I swear by that! Pantry is stocked w-lots of canned goods, which will do in a pinch. We have multi grains, frozen goods, nuts, dried fruit & so on on hand, so we don't have to go to the store so often for supplies. I also make a yummy organic veggie soup that can last 3 days ~ 2 dinners & a lunch! Healthy & good tasting, too.

My wish is that we all stay healthy & keep our families in tact! I look forward to the summer, and hope that all these precautions WE are taking will have worked to lessen the virus' hold & spread...crossing fingers! We're all learning to cope & make it work. Need to get that campaign season back in full swing again, however that takes shape. And our communities, churches & healthcare facilities need to get back in working order, as well as our jobs & economy. It's a little scary not knowing how this will all work out, but I'm keeping the faith that it will! Prayers, blessings & comfort to you all.

To learn more about the image posted here, 'A Lamp Unto My Feet', click on the link provided below. Enjoy!

My big prize for "Shedding a Little Light on the Situation" placing 1st in the recent 'Angels in Any Medium' contest is, drum roll, 'bragging rights', lol, so, I'm bragging...just a little! It's been a while since I've had a win w-this soft pastel work which made it an even sweeter surprise. My thanks to those fellow members who took the time to scroll through the images & vote! The original sold many moons ago in one of my very first one-woman exhibits, but, thankfully, I was able to get a super transparency & hi-res digital photograph beforehand, which means I can offer YOU fine art prints & reproductions of one of my favorite pastel creations! In fact, I have a canvas print from FAA-PIxels I personalized w-a creative border design right here in my studio just above the computer where I write you now. Sweet! To learn more & view all print options, click on the link below...and enjoy!! It's almost spring up here in the PNW, at least the last week or so has been spring-like, and that means I'm, once again, out in the sunshine piddlin' in the garden. Soon, I will be sharing some favorite images fresh from the garden, and I can't wait! Until then, many blessings, Brooks.

I am 98% done revamping my site to offer YOU a new and improved viewing and shopping experience!! Definitely a labor of love going through each image to update, reprice, offer new print options, reply to comments, add features, etc. But, it's worth fine-tuning my entire gallery of fine art & photography ‘Images’ & ‘Collections’ to better serve your needs, and mine! I may be lowering my artist commission prices [slashing!], but not my standards! Visitors & clients alike will find re-figured pages, new works, more effective keywords, reworked titles, updated group features, fellow member & visitor comments-likes-faves, as well as a list of contest wins on certain images! Also, the quality of my shop improves by lessening the quantity of images, as in out w-some of the old, to make room for newer pieces, like my most recent digital art imagery [seen here], titled 'Coloring My World'! There are several in this same genre at the top of page one of my 'Images'! Getting rid of older work that doesn't work for me anymore means I can add fresh new life, which is always exciting, both the creating & sharing! You will definitely STILL see old favorites, best sellers and my most winningest [yes, it's a word!] & popular works, though!

As you may know, Print-on-Demand sites allow artists a small or large mark-up of their own. I have reduced mine so that you are paying a very minimal amount over what it costs Fine Art America and-or Pixels.com for costs & shipping. I do a lot of work for little pay! Buyers are paying mostly for what the site does in order to process & manufacture prints, etc. So, we artists & photographers appreciate your support, however big or small!

If you’re looking for an even more affordable way to purchase art or photography, here are a couple of examples that will get you more bang for your buck: [1] Buy triptychs, three images in one [See my newly created 'Triptych & Large Format' Collection], and [2] Purchase several small prints of similar subjects, like roses, and then mat & frame them your self to hang as a grouping for visual impact in your own home or office, or give as gifts. Where there’s a will...!

Like I said, each new image in my gallery and those remaining will get some TLC. Be sure to check the comments under each to see what others are saying about my work, as well as the newest group features. In the right-hand column, you will find the image description w-additional information re print options, contest wins, etc. You can access my Pixels.com website by clicking on the 'Shop' tab or simply see 'Contact' [me], then click on 'Visit Website'.

I’ve also been super busy hosting numerous creative contests to support fellow members! Contests are a great way for potential clients to view a wide variety of our work, contests w-‘Art-Inspired Lifestyle’ themes, such as ~ ‘Home Décor - Bed & Bath’, 'Culinary Art[s] - Bon Appetit’, ‘The Light Within’, 'Strictly Digital', 'Man Cave & She Shed Art' and ‘Your Coolest Mug Designs’. These types of contests give buyers a chance to view images relating to their specific wants & needs, and allows us artists to invite a bigger audience to view our art. In fact, I've hosted over 400 contests since joining FAA-Pixels.com, and a whopping 30 in the last 2 months!

Want to know more about me and my work?
Well, I’m a gardener, so you will see lots of beautiful flowers & things fresh from my beloved garden.
I am a musician, so you will feel a flow, balance & symmetry in my work.
I am an animal & nature lover, so you will enjoy wildlife, landscapes & more.
I am a designer, so you will notice gallery-quality imagery for every room in your home, as well as the office boardroom and more.
I am a seamstress, so you will find images reflecting my love of fabric, as well as those w-texture, pattern & design.
I am both visual artist and photographer, so you will notice a varied & eclectic portfolio of prints to choose from, always with an artist’s view & eye!

Finally, check out my Fb Timeline ~ Brooks Leath Garten Hauschild! There you will see & learn even more about me & my work!

[Click on the link provided below to see more about 'Coloring My World' & other works of art & photography!]

What's better than one amazing sunflower super macro??? Three amazing sunflower super macros in a row...seen here as a super-sized fine art canvas print triptych! This gorgeous splash of color & whimsy is perfect for any home and-or office decor, whether beautifully displayed on your wall as a fine art print...or on the floor, yes, the FLOOR, because this image is perfectly sized for the yoga mat option. Bright,colorful, cheery sunflowers are a fabulous way to start your day w-a smile, whether it be a workout-meditation routine or larger-than-life wall or poster art! Check out my 'Sunflower Power' Collection, and the link provided below, for more. The original sunflower macro is available individually as a fine art print, and there is a vertical triptych version in these colors, as well. I can also manipulate the colors to fit your decor. Enjoy...and have a wonderful sun-filled day!!

Fell in love w-a beautiful photograph of a sunflower in sepia tones taken in the garden, which, FYI, is available in my gallery for your viewing pleasure! I loved it so much, in fact, that I thought, hmm, what else could I do w-this image that would satisfy my creative curiosity. Answer: go abstract! So, off to Photoshop I happily went...and after a few twists & turns [w-no color changes], I got into the groove ~ creating several orbs [no tools for that], manipulating the lines, playing w-lighting effects, etc...and, voila!, something fluid & otherworldly began to take shape. I, then, took each image I had created from the original, about 5 or 6, including this piece, put them together w-others to make several triptychs, the perfect sizes for print options such as yoga mats, towels & so on. ALL are available as fine art prints, too, and they look fabulous as wall art! Check out the 'real deal' original, and all the manipulated images, by clicking on the web link provided below...and ENJOY!! Once you find those you like, simply click on the image to see the details & prints options. Contact me w-any questions! Have a great week. ~Brooks

Time flies whether you're having fun or not! I just realized I hadn't created a NEW blog to share since April? Could've sworn I posted my last in June. In any event, it's about quality, not quantity, right? The garden continues to delight & garner my attention; how could it not w-all the beautiful roses, daylilies, poppies [yes, they're still blooming], black-eyed Susan's, daisies, pansies, geraniums...and veggies! You get it; there's a LOT going on out in our 'little Eden' as some call i!! I think time flies more quickly when you're busy, not so much when you're having fun. But, I digress...'Back to Eden' [good book, btw]...the garden continues to amaze & fill the senses. Mother Nature can't do it all on her own; we have to help! So, happily, things are filling in nicely in both the upper & lower yard. New & older plants are thriving, and myriad flying insects & birds visit daily to enjoy the flowers, feeders & fruit-nut trees. We like to say, 'it's our own little slice of paradise', started from scratch, literally. I shudder to think, sometimes, of all the hard work I've done over the years that has brought me to this place, but it's all been worth it ~ a labor of love. I've always enjoyed creating garden sanctuaries wherever I've lived so there is a special place at my fingertips in which to work, explore & commune w-nature. This particular garden of ours has been evolving for over 22 years, so you can imagine the love that goes into it. I, for one, need that to help replenish, rejuvenate & restore body, mind & spirit. Click on the link below to view my garden photography!!

Click on the link below [Click Here for More Information] to view my NEW & improved Artist's Website! Enjoy scrolling through the 'Collections' & 'Images', both original art & photography, yours for the asking! Questions are welcome, as is your feedback. [Gold rose seen here can be found on the first page of my Images, as well as 'My Bloomin' Garden' Collection].

Check out my 'Sunflower Power' COLLECTION for more uplifting & inspiring images from the garden!! Even w-more springlike days arriving that herald the coming season, we still need bright sunny imagery to lighten our spirits & lift our mood! You will find all that in my gallery of work, both original art & photography! Questions & comments welcome!

Wishing everyone all things good & great this New Year! Looking out my kitchen window at the little juncos, finches & chickadees flitting about the leftovers of my waning winter garden, I reflect on 2018, marveling at the easy transition from fall into winter! Each season has its own delights...and woes. This year, spring was mostly a joy, very busy w-lots of sunny days, which meant completing home & gardening projects. We were all set to enjoy a bright & colorful summer when [the] myriad fires in our region, w-their subsequent smoke lingering for months in the valley, put an end to that. Somehow we made it through in tact and are thankful for a mild wet autumn! For most, to one degree or the other, the Holidays mean enjoying family reunions of some sort, feasts to share, celebrating Christ's birth, presents to present, good cheer & toasts, as well as moments of peaceful solitude. In that vein, my 'Peace Rose' makes the perfect addition to your home decor and-or as a special gift to loved ones, reminding them that every day, ALL year, is the right time to embrace & impart the virtues of Peace, Joy, Love & Charity! The color green is healing, calming, renewing...and the beautiful rose silhouettes [taken in my garden] w-text give you a sense of refreshing calm. In fact, I have an entire collection of these bright colorful pieces ~ from 'Joy' to 'Love' to 'Passion' & so on in my 'Images'. Just click on the 'Click Here for More Information' link below to view 'Joy' & all print options available, like wall art, totes, greeting cards, etc. Please contact me for further info...and check out my Gallery & specific 'Collections' for even more gift ideas of original art & photography. Wishes for many peaceful easy feelings & blessings in 2019!

It's already been what seems like a long hot summer up here in the PNW...and we're just getting started! To make maters worse, we've also got the smoke going on! Unfortunately, this weather pattern we're experiencing, the early heat & smoke, is becoming more frequent & intense when thunderstorm lightning strikes, as well as man-made causes, fuel numerous wildfires in the region & state. That makes it not only hard to enjoy the out-of-doors when you really want to, but just getting a deep breath of air is nearly impossible. Speaking of patterns, the garden provides such joy & respite, giving me ample opportunity to gather artistic shots like this beautifully-patterned Swallowtail enjoying a colorful basket of red geraniums & petunias. The heat & smoke have forced planned garden projects further down the list. In fact, at this rate, it might be fall before we get some rolling. My husband is happy about that, lol! Luckily, a day w-a good breeze blowing in the right direction offers us blue skies, cooler temps & cleaner air and we take advantage of the break, doing what we can. You would love the garden this year! Luckily, we got a head start on cleaning, planting & removing a couple of large trees causing problems before the weather took a turn for the worse. It looks pretty fantastic, too, because, thankfully, we have access to irrigation water, meaning the grass is still green, the plants thriving and a variety of birds & hummers come calling, along w-myriad flying insects & critters! I keep the water features filled as they all LOVE drinking & splashing about in the fountains. Bird feeders, too. Plus, all the perennials & annuals give them the sustenance they need. Our veggies, like green beans, tomatoes, squash & more, decorate the dinner table most evenings, accented by herbs picked right outside the kitchen door. And the fruit & nut trees are full of their special offerings since a major pruning last fall. Happily, my favorite sunflowers are shooting sky high despite the weather. One looks like it may well top last year's tallest at 16 ft. So, we make it work! In the meantime, more time spent inside than out lately means I've been preparing a selection of beautiful images taken in both the upper & lower gardens to share w-you all as fine art prints, greeting cards, mugs & more! Just click on the link you see here to go to my Pixels.com website to view all products available! You will have to return to me here at Fine Art America, though, if you want to leave a comment. That's the way it works on site, for some reason! Make sure to check out 'My Bloomin' Garden' and 'Winged Beauty' Collections, as well as my many pages of Images. Have a wonderful day! ~Brooks

Friends, followers, fellow bloggers ~ I had a few minutes and decided to scroll through our FAA member blogs to see what's new! Thoroughly enjoyed those knowing what the heck they're doing & saying, but others, hmm, not so much? A 'blog' is defined as a journal or diary written for public viewing on a website, consisting typically of personal reflections, commentary on current events or self-promotion, sometimes containing imagery, and arranged chronologically. So, I'm not exactly sure 'why' some are posting, other than the site offers us the opportunity? Seeing there's a wealth of information readily available on the subject, 'Blogging Basics 101', for example, there's no good reason not to be in-the-know.

Here's what I see: [1] a handful of members creating insightful blogs w-corresponding images that are fabulous; [2] several who like posting just their on-site contest placement[s] and/or sales updates; [3] a few preferring to promote a new collection or plug an upcoming or on-going exhibit; [4] others sending out 10 posts in a row, for some odd reason, all re different topics, but not a lot of content; [5] a couple members thinking that annoying, strange and obnoxious posts are cool; and, [6] still others choosing to share a link to another of their web blog[s] or an image from their gallery, sometimes w-little-to-no explanation, just a link, that may or may not be active. It's a problem when someone wanting to see more has to, first of all, know to go to our Pixels site and find our 'Blogs' buried under 'Info' in order to access the live link..or not. Unfortunately, we also can no longer share active image links in our Profile blog comment section either. Double trouble. We can, however, post a relevant image in the upper left-hand side and direct traffic to our Profile or Artist Website or, like mine here, add something just for fun, in this case a selfie-selfie.

Interestingly, only fellow members or those w-accounts can leave a comment, so it's difficult to garner an off-site following. Also, we must remember to check on our blogs ourselves to see if someone replies, since we do not receive a notification in our 'Activity' re. Maybe higher-ups could be coaxed into making some welcomed changes for those of us choosing to use this tool...and, perhaps, more members would use it!?

In any event, it's obvious that folks are interested in venturing out into the blogosphere, so maybe I can help w-a little friendly advice? I do have quite a lot of experience under my belt, as a writer, editor, photographer, designer & visual artist of 40+ years. Maybe that means something, maybe it doesn't, lol, but, nonetheless, here we go:

[1] Spell check, everyone! It doesn't look or 'sound' good when the simplest of words are misspelled;
[2] Use the proper punctuation! Seeing that some of you share only a sentence or two, make 'it' work, so we don't have to;
[3] Tell a story, even if it's a short one! Personality & humor go a long way. Most people are attracted to warmth & creativity, as well as something visually stimulating, like pictures to aid the story-line;
[4] Be professional! Prepare a blog that YOU yourself would want to read...and follow;
[5] Pace yourself! Timing [and content!] is everything. Less IS actually more, sometimes. If you want people to take you seriously, posting every so often seems 'healthy', while posting 5 or 10 in a row every other day looks a little OCD;
[6] Tit-for-tat can work. If you want someone to respond to your blog, then respond to theirs! Should you find it helpful, interesting, educational and/or funny, let them know. It keeps a blog circulating;
[7] Think before you post!

That's it for now. Yes, you are welcome to share your thoughts below...and to check out my Profile, as well!

~Brooks

Color and life are inseparable. In all its shades, tones & hues, color influences the whole of our life, affecting our moods & emotions, and coloring our personalities. Its beauty & variety enhances and transforms our lives daily. Color has texture, taste & feel. From the brilliance of pure light come all the colors, each with their own individual impact upon our systems ~ mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually.

Many of our healing needs can be met by the use of color! How we see & use color may be but a reflection of our inner memories. Some of the most beautiful examples of color---an opalescent dawn of gold & rose, the luminous blue of an evening sky, sunlight through stained-glass windows or a rainbow spanning the heavens---may well remind us of some other realm faraway where light & color weave patterns of which we can only guess.

One of my most successful exhibits ~ 'The Healing Energy of Color' ~ was full of saturated canvases in all shapes, sizes & colors of the rainbow! 'Transformation', a 30 x 40 acrylic on canvas, shown here, is but one. See 'COLOR attributes' below for GREEN associations.

In ancient cultures color was used as a very special material symbolic of various sacred powers. It was essential for its protective & magical qualities, and the shamans or priests of the tribes were likely responsible for rock & cave paintings, choosing the colors & pigments that set the scene for everyone. Many ancient cultures worshiped the sun, the source of all color, harnessing its healing powers. Egyptian gods & goddesses had special colors denoting various qualities & powers. Emotional qualities were attributed to certain colors. RED was seen as aggressive, as well as life giving, and would be placed alongside BLUE, which was subdued, yet flowing out to infinity.

In the first century A.D. Jewish historian, Josephus, associated WHITE with earth, RED with fire, PURPLE with water and YELLOW with air. Fifteen centuries later Leonardo de Vinci stated his color preference as ~ “WHITE for the representative of light, without which no color can be seen; YELLOW for Earth; GREEN for water; BLUE for air; RED for fire; and BLACK for total darkness.”

Many ancient peoples gave colors to the four corners of the earth, but these vary over widely diverse cultures such as Old Irish, Mayan and North American Indians. Today, in Navajo sand paintings, WHITE represents universal cosmic energy; BLACK, the great void from which all comes; RED, life and energy; YELLOW the sun; and BLUE, spirituality.

All over the world colors of symbolic significance have been painted on humans, icons, walls, pottery & stonework; woven into tapestries and bead work; and incorporated into inlay work, stained glass, glass vessels & jewelry, not only for ornamentation & visual enjoyment, but for the practice of sympathetic & protective magic in all its aspects, and ultimately & simply for the glory of God.

COLOR Attributes ~

WHITE is a most sacred color, standing for purity, innocence and desire for simplicity. It's basic characteristic is equality: all colors are equal w-white. While it has associations w-both life and death, white usually stands for wholeness and harmony. Buddhists regard it as the color of self-mastery, while the ancient Egyptians considered white and green to symbolize joy. White and silver also related to the moon and the unconscious, the feminine side of human kind.

GREEN is the bridge between yellow and blue, the gateway in the spectrum. Symbolizing hope, renewal and peace, green is the color of harmony and balance. It is associated w-nature and all its aspects ~ the cycle of birth and death. It is the sacred color of Islam. In Christian thought vernal green denotes immortality, hope, the growth of the Holy Spirit in people, triumph over death and resurrection of spring after winter. Green’s most important quality is that of transformation. Clarity and understanding are at green’s core.

YELLOW and GOLD stand for the sun and all its various attributes. They signify divine power, enlightenment and immortality. Yellow is the color of happiness, wisdom and imagination. In China it is regarded as the earthly, feminine principle. Gold is the wise old sage, the color of experience, maturity and deep self-knowledge. In Hinduism gold is life, truth, light, the seed and the sign of Agni—the Hindu god of fire. Buddhists regard it as the color of humility. Gold soothes the nerves and promotes an overall feeling of well-being.

ORANGE, the complement of blue, is the color of knowledge and positive optimism. A mixture of red and yellow, orange represents youth, curiosity and fearlessness, as well as vitality and wisdom. It is also the color of luxury, pleasure and splendor. Invigorating, yet grounding, orange [along w-pink] is the most beneficial of all colors for dealing w-grief and loss.

RED represents transformation, strength, vitality and passion. Most likely it is the first color to have made a great impact on humans. Red is the color of fire—and blood, the source of mysterious power, life force, the mainstream of life. Red and white together are expressions of wholeness and perfection, unity and balance. In China, as in most cultures, red symbolizes the positive masculine essence and is regarded as the luckiest of colors. Universally, red is seen as the most creative and life-giving color. Red combinations include scarlet, crimson, flame and magenta w-pink as the “higher vibration” of red. Pink embodies the gentler qualities of red and symbolizes love and affection. It represents deep inner beauty, universal love, compassion and fulfillment of potential. Pink is comforting, relieving depression and loneliness. It’s a good color to use in a crisis.

BLUE is the color of the great deeps, the feminine and the Great Mother ~ symbolizing infinity, peace, compassion and healing. Most cultures connect blue w-truth, wisdom, constancy and introspection. As blue’s intensity deepens its many qualities are enhanced. Indigo, for example, is said to show a high degree of spiritualism, while paler hues suggest self-reliance and idealism. Cooling and calming, blue implies sincerity and a tranquil spirit.

PURPLE has the body of red and the spiritual nature of blue held in perfect union. It is the bridge to higher planes of consciousness and represents spiritual maturity. Some consider purple the color of the nucleus of life impulse ~ the color of the opening bud, the first streak of dawn and the last ray of the setting sun. In the West purple is the color of religious devotion and in many cultures is connected to ritual and royalty. Shades of violet and lilac represent spiritual service, intuition and healing powers.

GRAY is the most neutral color of all ~ the balance between the extremes of black and white. Gray represents a search for composure and peace. It implies dedication and a desire for quietness and space. At its highest silvery hue gray is the ray of peace. Silver calms the nerves and restores the equilibrium. Along w-qualities of endurance and understanding, silver represents the feminine part of the self, the moon, the delicate and cool.

BROWN is dark yellow-red and represents the color of the earth. It is associated w-stamina and patience, and represents qualities of concentration and common sense. The touch of red fire in brown adds a spark of surprise. The coppery bronze side of brown contains several colors within it and represents multiple positive aspects, particularly flow and balance. Those who relate to tan show quiet assurance and deep intuition, trusting in the natural order of things on Earth.

BLACK is the dark earth out of which all new life springs; the great void from which all comes. It is connected to our higher philosophical thoughts and ideals. Black represents mystery and discipline, which can bring freedom and liberation. Every color of the rainbow is found within black; therefore, black holds the mystery of hidden colors.

{Sources: "The Complete Book of Color Healing" by Lillian-Verner Bonds [2000] and "The Healing Power of Color" by Betty Wood.}

This VERY special 'Limited Time Offer' simply can't be missed! Please enjoy a 30 x 40 fine art canvas giclee of my original acrylic painting ~ 'Dancing for Joy' ~ one of my most popular pieces. This amazing nearly half-off price can't be beat & only lasts a few days, so act quickly. With its glorious colors, fluid motion & joyful spirit, a gift of art w-special message will shine all year round!

Purchase a 30 x 40 canvas print of 'Serenity' at fabulous price...and just in time! Taken in my lovely summer garden, this colorful orange rose macro will brighten the walls of your home-office and those of your loved ones. Offer is for 10 prints only, so act quickly. This drastic price reduction won't last! Simply click on the 'Click Here For More Information' below to view all the details!

T'were the nights before Christmas...and all through this site, gifts of art for your loved ones will make Holidays bright!

Yes, everyone, it's that time of the year [again] to search for the perfect FINE ART GIFTS to send family & friends...and ourselves!

We all want to beautify our homes and office spaces w-amazing artwork & photography! 'Imagine' [shown here] is just one of the original pieces of art available in my gallery.

Speaking of, you are warmly invited to visit both my Artist Profile and Pixels Website where you'll find ~ paintings [like 'Imagine'], nature photography, pastel art, abstract digital creations, floral captures straight from the garden, birds, insects, 'Art 4 Kids' & more. Click on the 'Collections' tab for specific categories to help refine your search!

Now that FAA is venturing into the world of home decor, you can also enjoy my art & photography on a selection of home products ~ hand towels, mugs, throw pillows, etc. Any questions, concerns or comments are welcome. Wishing you & yours many blessings this holiday season & throughout the year!

NOTE: To see ALL print options, visit my Pixels.com site, which you can access two ways:
[1] via my Profile page by clicking on 'Contact' [me] under my avatar, then 'Visit Website', then 'Shop ~ All Products' or, more conveniently, [2] simply click on 'Click Here for More Information' just below and, once there, choose the 'Shop' tab.

"Nothing stays the same...and that includes Facebook! Even with all the changes & things 'we' can find wrong with the site, though, I'm happy to be there, most days; the good still outweighs the 'bad'. That being said, higher-ups need to listen to those who got them where they are and find a happy balance between their desire to make money, while allowing us access to more of the personal posts we enjoyed seeing for so long. It would be wise for them to remember their reason for being in the first place ~ the initial 'connections' with others that made the site what it is...was.

Their excessive ads, bogus fake news stories, incessant marketing links and all those birthday notices clogging up the newsfeed don't float my boat, but I simply adore my community of artists & collectors and friends & family from all over the world! The rekindling of childhood friendships, family connections and creative interaction with kindred spirits & amazing artists is, for me, priceless. Fb knows this is true of most members, and is 'banking' on the fact that I/we will not dump our accounts altogether after the time & effort we put into gathering friends, managing our 'Timelines', updating our 'Photo Albums' and all the posting-sharing-commenting! Whew. I must say, though, it's getting pretty tiresome sorting through all their 'stuff' to find posts worth my while.

It used to be quite simple to purge the feed [and friend's list] of junk ~ anything or anyone untoward, ads & such, those who only post politics or people who consistently share pics of their pets, family & what they're having for dinner, lol. That meant, when we did choose to scroll thru our feeds, we'd see posts that sparked the creative spirit, spurred the imagination, made us think and sometimes laugh-out-loud. The thing that bothers me most is the fact that only about 10% of our friends even get to see our posts! If you pay to play you may, or may not, get more bang for your buck. I will try that once to see if it actually works in bringing more viewers to my art-photography links. I'll let you know!

Sales? There've been a few, but then again too few to mention. Ever the optimist, I do hold out hope that will change. If selling my art & photography was the main objective & motivation to be on Facebook, however, I'd be sorely disappointed...and frustrated. I know a lot of artists are on-site only to sell their work, creating a single artist's page and hammering away with the image posts & links. Others have two separate accounts ~ personal & business. I keep it simple with just a personal page. Not sure how viable a tool of the trade Fb really is; I've heard conflicting reports. But, like I said, it's been awfully slow going. If the end result is that I gain new fans worldwide and more family & friends get to know me & my work better, their friends, too, then fabulous; I can 'work' with that. The precious time spent 'connecting' and forming a supportive community, people from all walks of life, whose work & lives I also appreciate, will be my reward. If it translates to sales, bravo!

To attract friends, I keep my 'Timeline' clutter-free, creative & entertaining. Translation: only my posts appear! Rarely, do I share other's links or photos and, then, only if a catastrophe like Harvey or a friend needing help in some way. I also vary my posts, from art & photography to me, myself & I, which seems to keep people coming back for more. Variety if the spice! I avoid anyone who allows all those birthday wishes, 'thanks for the request' notices & repetitive posting of the same photo on their Timelines. That means they don't manage their page[s] well... or their 'time'. Some artists like joining groups, but I've found only a couple I liked and neither amounted to much, except extra views & likes. I hardly interact in those anymore. I DO support people, though, both here & there, but don't let anyone post on my pages. I remain diligent in sharing my FAA group & contests there, though. The trick is to do it in a way that doesn't 'seem' like I'm trying to get anyone to buy something, but rather to 'enjoy' it. Like I said above, only a handful of our 'friends' actually get to see our posts...and then it's a toss up as to IF they see them in their feed since most people don't hang there for too long, or at all, and less so these days than before. I also notice the same people liking, commenting & sharing my posts over & over. Interesting. Makes me wonder if those 100 are the ONLY ones seeing anything?

I'm not a 'twit'terer, don't use Instagram or other apps, play games or hang out & chat. Never was or will be on another social media site, except for FAA; I guess I can call it that! So, Fb, such as it is, matters to me. Not an addiction, like some claim, just a way to pass a little time, share my work & a little bit of me. I check in once or twice a day, do what I need, and am able to stay on top of things. I figure 'if YOU are not active, you won't get much action'! That only stands to reason. Most of us live much larger lives than spending our days on Fb or other social media sites. Happy to say, I get a LOT of 'love' from my 3,150+ friends...and that's good enough. Liking someone & their work is better than the alternative.

New thing [for me!] this week is, despite having over 3-thousand [well-vetted & connected] friends, Fb is telling me to add MORE friends IF I want to see MORE posts in my newsfeed! Huh? My feed simply stops within a minute or two, after I rid it of 'trash', with a note from them saying, 'If you want to see more posts, add more friends'. That stinks, as I already have a LOT of friends, active ones, and rarely see a thing from them, which means I have to go to their Timelines to do so. Thanks all the same, but I am content with the number of friends I have. If I want to add more, I will. So, today, Fb is on my 'blank' list. Actually spent over 15 minutes cleaning the clutter [crap!] from my newsfeed earlier in order to enjoy something personal from friends & family. I'll have to do it all over again the next time I visit, so enough already Fb with what YOU want me to see! The more you control things, the less I want to be there. Sigh.

More about friends ~ it's true that some people accept any & all friend's requests, but it's super important, I think, to check everyone asking for your friendship as closely as possible! They will be seeing all your info...and you will be getting their posts in your feed, unless you 'unfollow' them, which makes me wonder what's the point of accepting them in the first place, except to pad your list? Kinda rude. I have turned down more requests than I've accepted during the time I've been on-site...and am even pickier now, if possible. Maybe this is more true for women!? If I had allowed everyone access, I'd have reached maximum capacity in my 1st year of membership and missed the chance to 'meet' some fabulous people. I like to keep my options open. There are a lot of weirdos out there, though, so make sure you use of all the 'privacy' settings available, including 'blocking', if needs be. At least that's something within our control!

I sure hope the site is paying attention and doesn't let greed completely cloud their senses. If not, their 'baby' could simply implode, self-destruct, poof ~ 'here today, gone tomorrow'. And, that's not something I would like to see happen.

Feel free to join me there while you still can. If you do, please 'enjoy' my painting 'Aria' [above] when you visit my Timeline. It's my cover photo."


~ Brooks Leath Garten Hauschild

Welcome to 'Sunflower Power'! You are invited to join my brand new group featuring your amazing SUNFLOWERS in living color! All media & creative expression accepted as long as it's family-friendly, high quality and recognizable as a sunflower. Sunflowers must be the main focus!

In the first two weeks of [our] existence, we have gone from 'zero' to 'high' in the FAA activity charts! YOU should come check us out ~ the 'Discussions', Images, Members, Contests & more.

Here's what you can expect as a member ~ daily/weekly reviews of your uploads; selected homepage features; an 'Administrator's Pick-of-the-Week' every Sundays; group link shared on my Fb Timeline; periodic promotional contests; updates from me in the 'Discussions'; and NO bombarding group emails!

Groups are a great way to meet new members, share your work and learn something, as in promotional tips, ideas & links! To find us, simply do a 'Group' search for 'Sunflower Power'...and you will see my sunflower logo, avatar & homepage 'Overview' with all the info you need re joining. For some reason, we are no longer able to include active links within our blogs.

"There's not another thing on this planet that more trumpets life than the SUNFLOWER. Not because of what it looks like, but because it follows the sun. During the course of a day, the head of a sunflower tracks the sun's journey across the sky. Wherever light is, no matter how weak, a sunflower will find it. That's such an admirable thing...and lesson in life." ~Helen Mirren

Spring has sprung...and Mother Nature welcomes 'the change' in her own wild, wacky & wonderful way! Moody, fickle & temperamental, she offers us 'overcast & chilly with a chance of snow' one day, 'balmy breezes & sunny blue skies' the next. I can work with that! Happy to get going on the annual garden cleanup when the latter prevails, like today with its warmer temps, which made picking up the debris after my tree guy took down a large pine near the front porch not that much of a chore. Plus, a 'kind of hush' has been restored in the hood after the chainsaw racket; definitely an improvement. Call me wimpy, but when it's too cold, I simply refuse to work outside! All those extra layers just make it hard on a girl. Looking & lumbering about like a lumberjack is not my idea of 'cool'. Lol. You can bet that when I'm cozy & comfy inside working on a painting, being creative on the computer or just chillin' in hibernation mode, I can think of a million excuses not to don long underwear, overalls, my jacket, headband, hat, gloves, boots & knee pads [whew!] to tackle even more projects. Too much of an effort! The peace & quiet of our hilltop abode surrounded by oaks, madrona, pines [one less] and a very large redwood sequoia these last few months has been a blessing. With so much going on in the world, I cherish, and protect, what tranquility can be found, especially on the home front ~ brisk nature walks alone on overcast chilly windy days, sitting by the fire in the evening with my husband on silent snowy nights, the less hurried pace of late fall & winter, the 'extra' time there seems to be to get stuff done inside, things we put off when sunny skies invite us out to work & play in the garden...and the shorter days in which to snuggle up with a cup of tea [and mate], read a good book and NOT feel guilty. Once again, spring reigns ~ its promise of hope & renewal engages our senses and re-ignites our passion. We get on with the hustle & bustle of life, albeit, sometimes, reluctantly. Time waits for no one, as the seasons, coming & going way too quickly for me, will attest. Up here in southern Oregon, the unpredictability of a spring day can be somewhat entertaining since you never know what will transpire from one minute to the next. In 24-hours, you may experience thunder & lightning, sunshine, a passing rainstorm, gusts, hail & possibly snow! Just the other day, I opened the front door to a soft layer of white blanketing the yard & trees...and the next took a jacket-less walk in my neighborhood park under a blue sky dotted with puffy white clouds where I snapped this photograph titled 'Almost Spring on Golden Pond'. See page-15 of my 'Images' for more. No matter the season, may your days & lives be filled with moments of sanctuary, solitude & reflection, time to replenish the spirit, restore sanity & renew your heart's desire[s]. 'Peace out'...make that 'within & without'.

Some images go better on FAA 'Home Decor' items and 'Art-on-Merchandise' than others! In fact, some members design imagery specifically for these options, a la size, shape, colors, pattern & style. Here's a recent upload from my gallery 'Fire in the Sky - Autumn Abstract' shown on a mug. See page-15 of my 'Images' for more re this gorgeous piece. You are welcome to 'Shop' for mugs, tees, duvets, towels, shower curtains, greeting cards & fine art prints via my Artist Profile pages or FAA Website, the latter which you can access by clicking on 'Contact', then 'Visit Website'. Actually, my website has more to offer as far as products! There are many print options & images to choose from...so, enjoy. And, please, ask if you have any questions. I'm happy to help!

I keep going back 'n forth re the idea of placing my art & photography on the growing number of 'home decor' items now being offered on Fine Art America. My main reason for joining the site in the 1st place, and dumping all of my other on-line shops, was FAA's reputation for selling only 'fine art prints', not the myriad merchandise options up for grabs on [so] many other POD sites. What a breath of fresh 'artistic' air, I thought...and I've been an active member ever since. Unfortunately, things started to change on FAA...and I understand why ~ you need to stay current & keep up with the stiff competition out there. Who can blame anyone for that? It's the name of the game.

With the thousands of members already uploading thousands of images a day, and the legions joining as we 'speak', each with the [same] hope of selling their work and wanting a little attention, it's getting even more difficult to get seen, much less appreciated. Unless you are famous, lucky enough to be a BIG seller by bringing in buyers or in the right place at the right time, you hardly garner a glance. We hear it time & again, 'If you build it, they will come' or 'If you love what you do enough, success will follow'. Hmm, it does happen! So, we keep creating our beautiful art & taking amazing pictures that we can't wait to upload ~ things people 'ooh' & 'ah' over all the time. We promote the heck out of it and, sometimes, when all else fails, we do things we wouldn't 'normally' dream of in order to keep pursuing our dream of making a living from our lovely works-of-art ~ we, gulp, put our art on 'wearable~tote-able~throw-able~usable~everyday' products!

A lot of us work hard to promote our work...and we each think we're 'special'! As our favorite site heads into this 'more is more' direction a lot of members feel 'less & less' able to find a place in the FAA sun, even when we've done all we know to do to promote, promote, promote and be active. With all the new products, and the old, there is always the question of QUALITY, which is a big issue! I would not be so reluctant, probably, to join the bandwagon in a bigger way, IF I knew the quality was e-x-c-e-l-l-e-n-t, and consistently so! Being a seamstress, I am very aware of the details of garment construction & finish work, which are essential when including home decor products for $ale, in my opinion. I'd hoped that would be the case...and, I'm guessing, most members & collectors feel the same way. There's also the question of pricing ~ how much will consumers want to pay for these items? IF the quality is superb, I can see charging more since we're offering original [for the most part] art & photography. But, who is going to pay an arm & a leg for a tote, say, that's marginally-constructed when you can buy a better, well-made, double-stitched & longer-lasting product at the local market? Something to ponder.

After some 'bah, humbug' moments, well, make that days & weeks, and some less-than-enthusiastic conversations with others, I inhaled deeply & took a 'leap of faith' and placed some of my work on a selection of products. I created & hosted myriad contests in order to showcase member's works-on-products [still do!], assuming they were worthy & worth my efforts. I also purchased several items to check for quality. Unfortunately, I was underwhelmed with my order, which was really frustrating...and sad. It wasn't just the poor construction, but the clarity of the images appearing on the fabric choices. Not thrilled to say the least. In fact, I went through all my images & removed every one from every product!

Then, I began to read the community discussion threads more regularly and kept seeing conflicting reports ~ some said, and are saying, that they are happy with the products, while others say just the opposite. I noticed, too, that those with righteous complaints were/are being shushed or pooh-poohed, which bothered me. It also made me wonder if some members, maybe those selling in the upper brackets, were receiving better-made or higher-quality products & prints, while those of us average Joe's or Jo's were getting the less-than-stellar version[s]? Consistency is SO important...and not for just the top dogs! It does seem, perhaps, that those selling well often have several on-line shops/venues ~ here, there & everywhere, instead of concentrating only on FAA, which I thought was preferred. I do remember when membership just on FAA was being touted as optimal...and to be rewarded?

So, yeh, offering art & photography on products ~ it remains a dilemma for me. That is even more true for artists than primarily photographers, I think, because, if not done well, it really can 'cheapen our work', as 'they' say. When compared to cyber marketplace sites offering similar merchandise, is it simply enough to match their quality...or is it worthwhile to exceed it? I am on board with the latter...which can only happen if 'we' actually offer a BETTER product. Why is it, I wonder, that great quality is not the rule, but rather the exception these days?

We ALL want to make money with our art & photography; that's a given. And, I continue to wrestle with the 'why not' and 'the more the merrier' part. In that vein, I have re-added a selection of my images to certain products & sizes of, once more. I will simply cross my fingers & pray that whoever might purchase something from my gallery will be happy, or happy enough, to keep & enjoy what they receive. Not every one has higher standards when it comes to these kind of things, I get it, but it would be nice, once in a while, to have your expectations met...and/or exceeded, instead of having to accept the status quo. I have dragged my feet in promoting my gallery & the site, but am going to be more pro-active in doing so, as it is my ONLY venue. Onward I go. Wish me luck!

{Logo image: 'Aria', an original acrylic painting, seen here on a round beach towel. Scroll through my 'Images' to see more.}

My husband, John, a musician-singer-songwriter, just spent the last week in the hospital recovering from emergency surgery ~ talk about the blues. His energy is returning and his voice getting stronger, so we're making progress, yay, and just in time!

Jim Belushi has requested that John's blues band 'Duke Street' accompany him at a local event here in the Rogue Valley to help rebuild the old Eagle Point Mill, a working historical [flour] mill, which recently burned to the ground. Gone are the priceless antiques, in-house store & very cool facade, complete with vintage signs & items that can't be replaced.

Jim, who has a compound nearby on the Rogue River, has been kind enough, since moving to the area, to lend his name & talent to a number of causes to aid those in need, introduce himself & become part of the southern OR community. Kudos, Jim. Really nice guy ~ witty, funny, intelligent, creative.

It helped that John's band opened for Jim's last summer to benefit a local theater restoration...and that he also played for Jim's wrap party at the close of his reality show. So, a very kind gesture on Mr. Belushi's behalf to ask Duke Street to play with him once more for this latest 'Rebuild the Mill'.

Singing the blues, in this case, is helping to chase the blues away in more than one way. And, maybe there might be a new addition to the touring 'Blues Brothers' duo? It could happen!

Interestingly, I met Jim's brother, John Belushi, years ago backstage at a concert in L.A. Also, his 'Curly Sue' co-star, all grown up now, is shining brightly on this season's 'The Voice'!

Ever sort through your inventory of [older] unsold pieces and rework them? I do...and am always glad I did. Well, except for that one which was better off before its extreme-makeover, lol. Probably shouldn't have been quite so enthusiastic about changing-up the original, but c'est la vie; live & learn. Seemed like a good idea at the time...and, I still can work my magic on that particular canvas if I want to 'go there' again.

You would never recognize the 'before' of some pieces found in my gallery! For example, my 30 x 40 acrylic 'Imagine' [see via the comments below w/added border & title], formerly titled 'Deeper Love', was a flowing floral painting! Now, with its new title & imagery, it has become one of my most popular 'winningest' works of art.

Currently, I'm working on 'Second Wind', seen here, which is an original mixed-media piece, 10+ years old, one of 12-piece exhibit I lovingly called 'Females, Fruit, Flowers & Flying Things'! Each was a combination of soft pastel, colored pencil, collage & more, [matted & framed], an all-time favorite show and a successful one, I'm happy to say. It was during an especially creative time of my life, so every piece held & holds a special place in my heart! This particular one did not sell, thankfully. Odd to hear, I know. But, it gave me the opportunity to breathe new life into it ~ as in more energy, color & movement. Plus, I kinda like[d] having it around to be honest! In fact, I've hung at least 10 of my favorite originals to decorate the walls & rooms of our home. Just can't bear to let go of any of them at this juncture...and none need further tweaking, yay!

Going through some other stored canvases & framed art, I also pulled out a couple of pieces that, to my now more-discerning eye, could use a little extra help, a flourish of color or some shading here & there...or more. So, when 'Second Wind' is finished, I will start updating those, beginning with another beloved painting, 'Place of Origin', which I've kept over the years for my own selfish pleasure. It needs a little freshening-up ~ like the rose in its center, for starters, could use some more definition. Just my opinion. Then, perhaps, I'll offer it for sale, so that someone else can enjoy its beauty & sensual delights, too. Or, maybe, I might consider willing both it & 'Second Wind' to certain family members who I know will treasure it [almost] as much as I do, and have. Such is the dilemma & joy of being an artist.

There are always a host of unfinished canvases standing around the studio that need my [undivided] creative attention, it's true. I hope to start tackling that project come summer, if not before, one of many on my 'to-do' list. Wish me luck...I'll need it!

In a world gone crazy what keeps you sane? Some people can 'take it easy' better than others; different strokes for different folks. But, sometimes, it's 'just hard' to experience that 'peaceful easy feeling' when our days [and nights!] can be spent dealing with difficult people, places & things: issues with banks, insurance providers, return policies, bad information, death & taxes.

There's some serious & righteous griping to be had and a whole lot of frustration going on out there, physically, mentally, emotionally, politically & spiritually. Our nights, meant to provide rest & relaxation, can also prove restless, and sleepless, not offering us the relief we need to deal with [the] myriad 'issues' affecting us, worldwide, regionally & personally.

We can downsize, simplify & organize til the cows come home, but does all that make life easier & more peaceful in the end or just that we have an endless array of baggage to sort through & tend, internally & externally? And by simplifying our belongings do we, then, feel more like we belong?

What keeps you from shouting, 'Stop the world, I want to get off!'? Whether a quick fix or long-lasting, what have you found that makes 'it' all worthwhile & gets you through the day, and life, in a happier, healthy way.

The older I get the more 'age is just a number' rings true. Also true that I'm going to stop counting come next year's big day, lol! But, seriously, age really is a state-of-mind, all about attitude, really just a number. Important to make each day count, in some big or small way, even if simply putting a smile on someone else's face...or your own!

I'm actually going to buy my first pair of roller-blades this New Year! If you knew my real age, that would mean something; you would be impressed! What do 'they' mean you can't teach an old dawg, in this case 'chick', new tricks?!

I guess it helps that I used to love to roller-skate, have an innate sense of balance and was a she-devil on the ocean boardwalks/sidewalks back in the day. Had my flashy orange leather skates w/yellow laces, tanned legs and well-oiled wheels flying in the wind...minus the headgear and shin/ knee guards, which I don't remember even being around then!? Not a huge stretch that I taught myself how to roller-blade in half-an-hour while on a visit to my old digs in San Diego recently. Again, minus all the gear! True, I hadn't been on roller-skates for eons and was a tad tetter-y/totter-y at first, but I got the knack of it pretty quickly...and was off gliding into the salty sea breeze sunset in minutes. Fun stuff.

So, yep, got myself over onto the ol' boardwalk [again] and into the flow of traffic rather easily after a little practice session on Fiesta Island. 'You go, girl' will always be my motto...at any age!

Sometimes you just need to vent! In a nutshell, four of our 'dear' neighbors have some form of construction/remodeling in progress, which seems to be taking for EVER. A new developer in town also recently bought up the vacant lots over across the street & is building two new spec homes. She & her crew have already rubbed everyone in the hood the wrong way, almost coming to blows at one point. We were such a quiet, loving bunch before! She actually had to dig up our street 3 times [so far!] to install utility lines, today being the 3rd. Yi-yi-yi...beep-beep-beep. Noise begins each morning at 7 a.m. sharp and there's no end in sight. I'm a night owl, so you can imagine my frustration & lack of sleep.

Calls for a deep, cleansing breath, right? Wrong! Trouble is the 'aroma' from our local dentist's residential medical marijuana 'plantation' up the block is overwhelming. Can't remember when I enjoyed the scent of roses from my garden as opposed to the skunk-y weed smell wafting through the holler. And, now, the printer just called to say my greeting card order was messed up [again!] & they will have to start over. Noooooo! We were informed earlier this week that our home/auto insurance rates are rising by leaps & bounds, so part of the morning was spent finding more affordable coverage & doing the-do re all that. And that's not the end of it. My energy level is draining about as quickly as the water level out at the lake.

On the bright side, good news is it's a lovely autumn day & I'm looking forward to a brisk chilly walk later this p.m. to revive the senses. I'm alive, mobile & in a somewhat creative mood, considering, which is a plus. I have a sweet hubby & all of you, yay. ISIL is not forcing me to leave my country with nothing but the clothes on my back in search of a new life in a new land. And, I just renewed ties with an old friend. In the whole scheme of things, problems can be solved & things will, hopefully, soon improve, crossing fingers. Hope you're having a better time of it!

{Logo: Photo of our shrinking Emigrant Lake, just south of town.}

In a 'leap of faith' this past year, I dropped my several other POD artist sites to promote my work exclusively on Fine Art America/Pixels.com! I had good reason[s] to make such a drastic move, I thought. Not only did I want to downsize in order to give FAA my full attention, but it seemed that those in charge were on top of things, wanting what was best for both [their] members & customers, as well as the site itself, a win-win situation in my view. So, I placed all my 'art' eggs into one FAA basket...and here's why:
[1] It appeared to be a professionally-run, well-organized & presented site, easy-to-navigate. [2] Social/networking & community aspects were high on the list of perks. [3] FINE ART ONLY products were available, not cheesy home decor/design items, something I had not been happy with regarding [my] other on-line shops. [4] Scads of opportunities were/are available, like hosting contests, developing your own artist's website...or creating a blog. [5] We could set our own prices, which, crossing fingers, I hope continues!

Wow, SO refreshing, I thought. I even posted what became a super-popular thread in the community discussion forum, 'Thankful for FAA', inviting members to share their positive experiences & gratitude for the site. You can imagine my dismay, then, when FAA recently introduced a line of home decor products...and they keep coming! Uh oh, I thought, here we go...again. I swore I would not join the bandwagon heralding such things, as I was under the impression, due to past experience, that it would cheapen my work, as you can't always count on images to transfer to certain products well, like those made with certain fabric, including canvas or cotton. To get the best print results, a poly-cotton blend is the way to go, plus you'll have less wrinkling & longer wear!

Don't get me wrong, I realize POD sites need to be seen by the public, potential buyers, search engines & so on, as well as keep up with the latest trends and/or try to out-do their competitors. I also know that our soon-to-be main site Pixels.com was created to carry ALL print products available on site, including apparel & phone cases. At first, we were told by management that NO home decor products would be offered in our FAA galleries, but, for some reason, I'm seeing throw pillows, duvets & totes appearing alongside 'fine art' prints in my portfolio. If it's confusing to me, it just also might be to potential buyers?

I wondered if anyone else was concerned with these same issues...and began reading the discussion threads. Yes, yes, they were. Members were sharing their opinions, pro & con...and I added my two cents. After toying with the idea of offering my work on decor items, I decided I'd rather concentrate on the 'fine art prints' only. I wasn't saying 'no' forever, but would play the 'waiting game' for a spell, hoping the site would iron out its problems. It can happen! But, the pressure was on...and I was feeling it, plus I want to continue being successful just like the next artist-photographer! I LIKE my work & think it should sell well. It's true, we are encouraged to promote, promote, promote our work, to $ell anything & everything. And, a lot of members are eager to do just that, offer ALL their images on anything & everything...tacky, worthy, or not!

Hmm, I thought, I don't want to be a 'party pooper'? Maybe I could up my sales, as well, if I joined in the 'home decor fun'! After some discussion with my husband, and seeing several members whose work I admired offering such items, I thought, well, maybe it could work, maybe this will be different, maybe FAA/Pixels' products & printing will be fabulous and I can feel good about offering them to potential clients?

I created a 'Pillow Talk' gallery, w/select pieces of my work on throw pillows, and, then, one titled 'Totes-to-Go', offering, you guessed it, some of my images on tote bags! Wow, the more the merrier, right? In my usual helpful way, I went so far as to host scads of contests, some currently in-progress, just so we members could further showcase our [best] work-on-products. I even added an assortment of images on phone cases, as well as a select few on duvets! Cool...or so, I thought.

Checking the discussion forum for further updates, I saw new 'issues' being reported, and, once again, questioned whether this was such a great idea? And today, I'm seeing that shower curtains and, possibly, calendars might be added to the list of items for sale? I welcome the calendars, btw, but think that the issues surrounding other items should be addressed & resolved BEFORE adding more & more items for public consumption. If you're going to test a product, then, do it for free or offer a huge discount! Quality is so important. We NEED to be able to trust & depend on FAA/Pixels.com to provide that service for its members & buyers. I spend an enormous amount of time plugging the site, adding new work, creating & tending contests, joining groups & discussions and promoting my work. Quality control, dependability & good customer service should be the #1 priority...and not something members need worry about!

After ALL the hard work it takes to set up a gallery of images, including customizing products, uploading images, adding keywords & descriptions, setting prices, etc., it would be a shame to simply delete entire galleries of mine offering home decor products. I will wait to see what transpires before going that far. The products 'look' great, even sound great, but I don't want to 'hold my breath & cross my fingers' re what will turn up at the doorstep of a customer...or mine, as I'm patiently waiting to place a very large order, myself, to send to family, friends, clients, gallery spaces of my own, as well as to keep and/or send as gifts. Btw, this afternoon, I saw a couple of discussion threads praising the quality of totes, pillows and the like, which gives me HOPE! I thrive on h-o-p-e...hard work, organization & having a clear workable vision.

So, here's the deal, I'm going to place an order this evening to check things out for myself: a few totes, several pillow cases & a couple of phone cases just to see what I get for my money. Wish me luck! I'll report back via the community discussion forum & comments below as soon as I receive my order. Can't wait.

{Logo: A favorite abstract image on a throw pillow...the 'quilted' look.}

My garden is decorated with a variety of these beautiful perennials in every color of the rainbow: gold, red, orange, yellow, white, purple & pink! Some even have several of those colors in a single blossom! Please take a moment to check out my gallery, 'Parade of Roses', and enjoy a few of my favorite captures.

They've just begun their blooming season here in southern Oregon, and still have a ways to go, so there will soon be MORE images to scroll through. If you like what you see, let me know, and, please, come back for another visit anytime!

Btw, all the roses in my gallery make lovely art gifts, for yourself, a special someone, the blushing bride, a friend's newest 'arrival or a friend! Some also contain text, like an original poem, a 'thank you' card & more. FAA offers lots of print options, so if you have any questions re a potential purchase, just send an email! I'll be happy to help.

My joy of creating extends right out the cottage door & into a garden I designed, landscaped & tend each year! In fact, the majority of floral photography seen in my gallery was taken just steps from my studio door! It's the gift that keeps on giving, the endless bounty it offers: edibles, of course, as well as the visual, sensual, aromatic qualities & variety of, which are simply out of this world!

I don't know about you, but I get such pleasure from creating garden sanctuaries, complete with fountains, arbors, rocks & stones, perennials, herbs, fruit & nut tress, flowering vines on trellises, sculpture and more. My hands have been in every inch of dirt, planted every plant, placed each stepping stone and rock wall...and every year, come spring, my husband & I [lovingly] tend it once more. Not to say the big garden clean up isn't a pain, but once it's done, ah, what a relief!

Gardening is like a painting, for me, as in going with the flow. I never pre-plan a design, unless it's something we're building, like the herb garden border, a walkway complete with stepping stones & gravel or an arbor. Otherwise, I just start digging & arranging and, somehow, it all works out!

It's true, some of us like getting down & dirty in the garden more than others! I suppose I got the 'bug' from my mother who used to love to 'piddle' in her garden before she passed early in life, and her father, my grandfather, after that. It's good exercise, a great escape and also an extension of my desire to create something of beauty & watch it flourish, hopefully!

Of course, we have what I refer to as 'wild & scenic' areas on our property, as well, spaces with blackberry vines, large trees & things I don't want to 'manage' or tend so much. Otherwise, I would be more than a slave to the garden/yard than I already am! Such a treat to have a yard/gardens that offers up so many amazing photo ops, though. Like I said, the gift that keeps on giving!

Today, there is not a cloud in the sky and the warm breeze is fragrant with the aroma of lilacs in bloom! It's time to turn over & amend the soil in our soon-to-be [again] veggie garden. This year we're simplifying, only planting cherry tomatoes, zukes, green beans, peppers & cukes. Of course, we love our special little herb garden, the many perennials & annuals throughout [both in the ground & planters], along with a few fruit & nut trees and a host of flowering bushes. Pines, madrona & oaks are here & there, plus, every now & then, you will also find a bench or table & chairs to sit on and gaze about.

Here in southern OR, folks are into gardening in a big way. If they don't have enough room or land, they opt for a communal space, which are in abundance around town. One day, I dream of opening a community garden myself! We'd need a larger piece of property, though, and I'd have to start all over, gulp. Can't imagine that, but who knows? I look around at our yard & garden in amazement. I really did that? But, one day at a time, one shovel full, one stepping stone laid, one trip to scout for rocks, one herb box built, one arbor erected and, pretty soon, you've got something swell going on.

How about you? How does your rural or urban garden grow...even if it's only a few sumptuous plants decorating a patio, porch or terrace? Btw, check out all the ideas & solutions for those of you who want a garden, but have little space. It's amazing what you can do!

{Logo: 'Fruit of the Vine', as seen on page one of my gallery}

We've been relishing springlike weather here in southern OR for over a month now, which means the BIG garden clean-up is well underway a little early this year. Unfortunately, a lot of my trusty & usually hardy perennials did not make it through a couple of pretty intense winter storms...and there is much more to do than usual. It can be overwhelming!

Happily, our two almond trees are still full of pink & white flowers...and bees, my one remaining evergreen Clematis vine is continuing to delight our senses with it's lovely blossoms & fragrant perfume and the mounds of heather decorating the garden walk here & there are still very much alive in deep pink. Since I am on the mend from a recent back injury, I must remember to be extra careful not to overdo, which, as you gardeners know, is not easy. But, I must pace myself...or else!

Like I said, some of my treasured vines did not make the cut after so many years of delighting me & our fence-line, while offering their delicious flowering aromas and much-needed privacy I crave. We are in the process of planting new plants & trees, then, come the myriad 6-pacs of starts to add, baskets of annuals to fill my many stone planters & stands, an array of veggies to begin thinking about, fountains to fill and SO much more.

How about you...how does your garden grow so far this year...or does it?

[Logo image: 'Going Up?', almond blossoms & bee from the garden.]

At the end of every year, and beginning of a new one, I tend to reflect on things past and contemplate on things present & future. Why, I wonder, do 'we' seem to think more fondly of days gone by, when, in fact, every day is pretty much like another, except with each one's passing, we get a little older, a little slower...and hopefully wiser. Yes, age slows us down. I don't do as much as I did in my 20's, 30's & 40's, or as easily, things like playing tennis for hour at a time, riding motorcycles, competing in league volleyball, rollerskating [without padding!] up & down the beach boardwalk in SoCal and doing the 'Hollywood' thing: acting-singing-dancing-auditioning. Cool stuff...and, it's safe to say, I thought I was pretty much invincible; I am woman, after all!
In reality, however, some of the things I did back then [with little thought of tomorrow] or that were done to me allowed for the array of issues that I find myself dealing with today: several whiplashes, a few surgeries, too many falls, a whole lotta heavy lifting & gardening, staying stuck in one position for long hours painting and, more recently, working at the computer. Lest we forget, those 'glory day's also included a litany of endured losses, tragedies & heartaches, all which affect the psyche, whether we work them out, or through.
Yep, the old bod & mind just ain't what they used to be, but, hey, I'm still standing...and standing strong. I'm what 'they' call a survivor, carrying on despite the obstacles. Bob Seger said it well in his soulful song 'Like A Rock'...I sit & wonder, sometimes, where they've gone...the years. Don't get me wrong, I'm active, just not the 'energizer bunny' I once was. Walking has replaced running and little changes like that. I sure do miss the natural energy part, but I'm not complaining, even though I could throw a good 'pity party', if I wanted. Oh, yes, I almost forgot, the naps, my husband & I have begun taking naps! I always hated nap-time, as a child and as an adult, until now. Maybe I should move to Spain? I hear naps are mandatory there. Lol. Plus, the pace of life is slower, more family, food & festive-oriented! Sounds good to me.
As the days grow more precious with each sunrise & sunset, priorities shift. Possessions & things mean less, and people, nature & work mean more. My husband seems sweeter and I'm much more quick to forgive & get on with things. Time flies...and way too quickly. So, I wonder, 20 years from now, will I look back on these days and think, boy, those were the days?!

{Logo: A younger me in SoCal.}

Well, it's officially winter...and, thankfully, up here in the PNW, it's been a mild entry, so far! I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May you each have an abundance of love, light, creativity & inspiration surrounding you now and throughout the coming year. Hard to believe it will be 2015!? But, I'm ready for it in, oh, SO many ways. One being that I've edited & updated my entire gallery of work, which is/was not an e-z task, as my aching back will tell you. But, my galleries needed a little extra tlc, which I provided, as well as some good-ol'-$ale-mojo in order to get things moving a little faster in the right direction! Was hesitant re the new addition of throw pillows on FAA, as I did not have a good experience re on another site of which I am no longer part of. But, upon further investigation, I hear & see that the new 'home decor' offerings are of much higher quality all around, so I joined the bandwagon and created a gallery titled 'Pillow Talk'! It's onward & upward from here on out. The New Year is looming large on the horizon...and, with it, I'm bringing a new attitude full of prosperity & positive energy. How about you?

{Logo: At home in Ashland, Oregon.}

Well, it's official, my art & photography is not only available on several sites, hanging in a gallery or two, being shared on fb, etc., but I've finally succumbed to renting a booth at our local artisans emporium! Swallowed my silly pride and decided to offer some older paintings, posters & prints to the buying public. It's true! Needed to move some pieces out in order to make room for the new. I find it hard to keep creating & producing when hanging onto works that would be better shared with others. I've had the pleasure of their company long enough! Don't know about you, but a piece of my heart goes with each one.

Last Saturday afternoon, the emporium held their big holiday bazaar & 4th anniversary party! Eats, treats & music filled the room, plus all the vendors showed up to welcome visitors & buyers. Kinda fun! Sold a few pieces, which gives me hope! Always a good thing. Actually enjoyed strolling through the huge space to see what hidden treasures were being offered by others, while being serenaded by a soulful guitarist who performed lot of my favorite oldies from Donovan, Dylan & such. Happy to see some familiar faces...and meet a few new ones, too.

Let me hear from YOU re places you have decided to show your works of art that you may not have considered until now!

{Photo of me taken by my husband [at home] just as we were about to walk out the door for the festivities.}

Well, another birthday has come & gone...and much too quickly may I say! Another year passes by and another year older am I. Actually, I'm looking forward to it, seeing what lies ahead. Was overwhelmed, in a good way, by the generous outpouring of love & best wishes from all my faithful Facebook friends/family, some of you here and, of course, family & friends closest to home! So much so, that I feel I shall be lifted up for the entire year! Thank you.

I have officially become a member of the group who has stopped counting their birthdays! It really is just a number, as they say! We say that, of course, the older we get. It's true, there are some who embrace each birthday & celebrate it proudly, no matter what. But, I'm a less-is-more sort of 'girl'. Everyone's life is different, for different reasons, as are their priorities, circumstances & choices. Variety is the spice!

I realize it's all about being in the moment and enjoying each one the best we can, especially those on our most special of days. However, it's also about making all the in-between's seem, well, more special, too! The minutes, hours & days pass by way too fast.

"Don't ask, don't tell" is my motto when it comes to age, aging, ages! Like I said, the number is not what's important, but rather how we live our lives, what difference[s] we make [in the positive] & do we choose to lift others up. It's not all about me...or you! Comes a time when 'things' become more focused, more fragile, more treasured & cherished! And, even though we've all probably said it a million times, life really is way too short!

I've always realized that, the temporariness of our existence here on Earth, having dealt with a lot of loss & grief in my life, which began with my mother's early passing when I was just 10. There were many others, closest to my heart, who were to follow. So, yes, life is short...and precious.

It's a beautiful afternoon here in southern OR! I see I only have a few camera hours to revel in the lovely lighting of this partly-sunny day...and here I sit communicating with you! That's all well & good, but to be honest, I'm itchin' to get out there and enjoy what's left in this break of the cold/wet weather pattern we've been experiencing. We actually have some sunshine on a formerly cloudy day! Time to grab the camera, enjoy some special moments and, hopefully, bring back something worthwhile to share with YOU!

It's been pretty HOT & dryer than usual here in southern Oregon this month! Not my favorite kind of weather conditions. Prefer milder temps & stormy weather, cooling breezes & the like. Thank goodness for the stray thundershowers that have come our way of late. My hydrangeas appreciate it, too, as they will wilt quite easily in the heat, even though grown in a partly shaded area. The little TLC they need from me is so worth the time, don't you agree? Luckily, we have access to irrigation water nearby, which helps keep things green & growing. Would love to hear from any photographers out there who are also gardeners! All of the flower images seen in my gallery were taken right here in my garden/yard, including the logo image, simply titled, 'Hydrangea Blossoms'. Enjoy.

Hair untangled, make-up on, jewelry arranged, pants tucked in boots...almost ready for Friday's Art Walk in Ashland, OR. Have a few paintings & some poetry featured in a downtown gallery. Love getting out 'n about, seeing old friends, meeting new ones, enjoying the art, music & tasty refreshments each gallery offers. We love our town's artsy creative vibe & small town feel. How 'bout you? Does your town or city offer something similar?

When I paint, I usually prefer quiet solitude. But, sometimes, a particular piece or type of music, blues, opera, gospel or a soulful instrumental, say, seems to be just what I need to get the creative juices flowing. Maybe it's the musician in me; I've played piano by ear since I was a child. Last summer, I created a group of acrylics painted to the tune[s] of 'Afterglow' [Hoppe-Tillmann-Wheater], which touched a certain chord within. I've never grown tired of it...and some of those canvases are my favorites. What kinds of music, if any, inspires your work?

Soon it will be spring...and I can't wait! I'm ready to get the BIG winter clean-up underway a little early, weather-permitting, so I'm able to capture more shots like this when the time comes! All the birds, bees & flying things are welcomed with open arms & shutters. Mother Nature is just SO amazing! Don't you agree?

It's that time of the year again...and it's cold up here in Oregon! There's a lot to be happy about, though, even for those of us who'd rather be enjoying warmer temps! It's a wonderful time to reflect, be in touch with family & friends, celebrate Christmas...and welcome in a New Year! Wow, that's a lot. This little bird seems pretty content keeping a watchful eye on things from her icy perch! I can relate! We must learn to be 'flexible' and roll with the seasons. Enjoy the simple pleasures! Happy holidays, everyone.

Love to saute these pungent, nutritious, delicious guys in a little olive oil & let their flavor accent any dish I serve! They even turn up the volume served up as a piece of wall art! Who knew?

This year's crop of tomatoes, green beans, zukes, eggplants and cukes have been prolific, nutritious...and artistic! Yes, you heard me. Yummy to eat as well as to look at, I certainly have enjoyed capturing these colorful edibles in their different stages of maturity. We also have a variety of fruit & nut trees that offer their own delectable delights, both tasty & visually interesting as well. These two-matoes are so easy to grow...and I love going out to the garden, grabbing a big ripe one warming in the sun, slicing it open and taking a big ol' juicy bite full! Hope you do as well! Enjoy.

When I'm able to find the time, I love creating photo collages, using my own art and/or photography together w/other pieces that will add visual interest. Some have titles or popular sayings, like this one, to make them appeal to certain audiences. Fun learning how to use Photoshop's many 'tools of the trade' in order to enhance, layer, stylize and so much more! Self-taught in this area, I'm always taking a minute, here 'n there, to see what 'magic' tricks I can find to make things more interesting!

One of my loves is creating abstracts from common everyday items and giving them a new lease on life even if it's just a simple twist or tweak here & there. It's all in how you look at things & the possibilities are endless if our minds are open to seeing things in a different way. Don't get me wrong, I love doing my artwork/paintings, abstracts & all, but creating abstract pieces via my photography engages my imagination & gets me inspired on whole other level of artistry!

I love the colors of neon lights against an evening sky! Makes me feel all nostalgic inside, especially vintage restaurant, motel and/or theater signs. Actually, this is a bit dark & a little blurry, but downtown Ashland on Christmas Eve is so lovely all lit up...and it works just fine. You get the picture! Anyone out there agree with me...and have your own versions to share?

I love the idea of encouraging kids to enjoy & create art while teaching them something at the same time. Favorite animal prints [from my original pastels] will decorate their walls and inspire their imaginations. Created with the animals' names as part of the piece, it will help them learn to spell as well. Cool.

Some artists & art lovers would prefer to let a painting speak for itself...while others think including the title as part of the piece helps to articulate the intentions of the artist. Although the work itself can convey a message, the title could act as the messenger. I like both versions...but, would really like to hear what you think, as an artist or art buyer?