Thru The Attic Door 2

Self Portrait

2012-01-20T17:28:00.001-04:00

Blue Skies

2012-01-20T17:25:00.000-04:00

TAKE ACTION!! SAY SOMETHING! DO SOMETHING RIGHT!

2012-01-18T15:33:00.000-04:00

Two bills before Congress, known as the Protect IP Act (PIPA) in the Senate and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) in the House, would censor the Web and impose harmful regulations on American business. Millions of Internet users and entrepreneurs already oppose SOPA and PIPA.
The Senate will begin voting on January 24th. Please let them know how you feel. Sign this petition urging Congress to vote NO on PIPA and SOPA before it is too late.

SIGN THIS PETITION

Fighting online piracy is important. The most effective way to shut down pirate websites is through targeted legislation that cuts off their funding. There’s no need to make American social networks, blogs and search engines censor the Internet or undermine the existing laws that have enabled the Web to thrive, creating millions of U.S. jobs.
Too much is at stake – please vote NO on PIPA and SOPA.

This will have a huge ripple effect for more then just the folks in the USA....it will slam all of us that have anything to do with using the internet be it a website, a blog, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and so on and so on......... do not stand by quietly and let this happen.

LEARN what SOPA and PIPA will do to the Internet and more!!!

2012-01-18T15:28:00.000-04:00

SOPA and PIPA......not the answer to the problem!!!

2012-01-18T15:26:00.000-04:00

Please learn about these bills and

STOP THEM

from being passed by Congress.

Everything happening on the WWW

could drastically alter and stop.
Censorship is NEVER the answer

Feta Baked Chicken

2012-01-16T15:20:00.002-04:00

You know when you are walking around the grocery store and on the shelf ,there are some times little recipe cards? This is one of those cards that I picked up years ago....and I'm talking years ago, as I was still married at the time. We made it all the time back then and have brought it back into my cooking rotation. It's super easy and beyond yummy.

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
1tsp dried oregano
1tbsp olive oil
4 skinless boneless chicken breasts
1 19oz can crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 clove garlic crushed
1/2 tsp cumin
3 cups cooked pasta

Mix feta cheese, lemon juice and oregano until blended. Set aside. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken pieces on both sides well and drain fat. Combine tomatoes,cornstarch,garlic and cumin. Stir into skillet and bring to boil. Spoon into shallow 9inch baking dish. Cover chicken pieces with feta mixture. Bake at 375 for about 25-30 minutes or no longer pink. Serve on top of cooked pasta of your choice.

Hard water stains and other icky stuff

2012-01-16T15:03:00.002-04:00

We all know they are gross and we all know how difficult they can be to try and get rid of. Living at the farmhouse, we have hard water here and I am always scrubbing till my knuckles bleed it seems, trying to get things clean looking. Drives me crazy!

I thought I had tried everything possible that you could buy but over the last few weeks happened to try something different and it worked. Like worked amazingly!!!! Made such a drastic difference that he even made a comment right away and he hardly notices anything.

I will forever swear by this stuff now......and finally have a white bathroom :)

Creatively Made Ecourse

2012-01-16T12:43:00.001-04:00

I am not even 100% sure where to even begin telling you about this amazing ECourse.

I've taken a few different art related Ecourses before. Wanting to expand my way of expressing myself thru art. Have loved them and really liked the new accents they have brought to my work.
One of the ladies that I took a class thru, has a blog that I now follow. She happened to mention she was going to be taking this course. I clicked on the link she provided to read more about it.
A number of things caught my attention right away.

1. I had been to the blog before and really loved her work. Something very soft and subtle about her pieces. They had spoke to a different side of me then I was usually drawn towards. I instantly wanted to learn more from her

2. Santos dolls. They have been a secret obsession of mine for awhile now. It jumped right off the page at me. I may have actually let a little squeal out.

3.The price. I know it seems terrible to say but with having been laid off from my job, "extra" money really doesn't happen very easily and I have to really be sure something is going to be worth while to make the commitment on spending it. I had been looking at a number of courses that folks were talking about and just stunned by some of the prices. One was over $400! GULP

I sat down and crunched some numbers. Shifted a few things around and then signed right up for it. I learned about the class like 4 days before it was starting. I didn't have any time to really second guess my choice. I spent the next few days making a list of supplies that I most likel would be using and needing. Cleaned out a space and waited for the course to begin.

The course is 4 weeks long and full of videos and samples. There is a community group thru the course as well as a Facebook group that she started. I was asked to be friends by a number of the gals taking the course. We are learning so much.

Today was the beginning of our second week and I am blown away!!!!!!

Jeanne Oliver has somehow connected to me on a level that I didn't even know I was needing or missing in my life. She is teaching more then a few art lessons on how to create something. She is making me dig deep into my being and connect with what has been given to me as gifts. I'm sitting back with my laptop and scribbling notes galore in my journals with every sentence out of her mouth.
It never comes across preachy. She never says its her way or nothing. She just in her own special soft spoken way opens your eyes to something and you instantly feel a level of joy and happiness.

I'm looking at so many areas of my life at the moment with different eyes. I'm feeling creative.
I'm feeling brave enough to open up and share things that I've been hiding and keeping to myself.
She calls it "your gifts" and shows you how to think differently about them.

I look forward to sharing so much more with you over the next while.
If you have the chance, please go check out her blog and her class.
You will not be dissappointed. She will show you the best ways to hold your head high and open your heart to those around you.

Put another log on the fire please

2012-01-16T11:43:00.001-04:00

I'm Canadian. I have lived thru many a cold winter season of brisk winds and piles of snow. Somehow though when making the plans to redo the old farmhouse that belonged to his parents, we forgot something. The furnace to heat the whole house is in the basement and the room we renovated as our livingroom.....is 2 flights of stairs away,on the top floor. I climb those stairs numerous times daily doing my best to keep this place warm. Since we are still right in the midst of renovations, some walls are torn down. Many are covered with nothing more then insulation and plastic. With each creaking step, up and down into the basement, I remind myself how beautiful this old farmhouse is going to end up looking when we finally get it finished

Laundry Pile

2012-01-16T11:18:00.001-04:00

I swear it feels like I am doing laundry every day and yet the basket never stays empty. With him working outside doing cement work/construction work, there is always something that needs to be washed. I'm not really complaining per say. It's not like I'm dragging a basket of clothes down to the rivers edge and scrubbing with a rock. Just one day of not having to fight with the hose coming loose in the basement or the antique wooden rack falling down while covered with my wet clothes.....a gal can dream, right?

Only took me 40 years to start drinking Coffee

2012-01-16T10:52:00.001-04:00

Only took me 40 years before I let coffee cross my lips.......well besides coffee crisp chocolate bars and coffee flavored ice cream. I now start my morning by drinking 2 cups and I actually love it.Always thought it smelled so bitter and I'd never like it. How wrong I was!
I take it with 2 sugar and some milk....how about you?

2012 becomes the year I add Videos!

2012-01-10T12:14:00.001-04:00

Enjoy the Ride

2011-10-03T23:17:00.001-03:00

Filling the Pantry Shelves

2011-10-02T22:43:00.001-03:00

Nothing makes me smile like watching the shelves in my new pantry begin to fill up with homemade canned goodies. We have managed to make.......ok....well first let me confess that I actually have done none of the canning. Andy has canned everything and I have pretty much just eaten it. Which actually makes me smile even bigger at our pantry. haha

We have raspberry jelly; blueberry jam and apple jelly. Spiced Bourbon blueberries was a recipe we knew we had to try and it was amazing with the pork roast it suggested you eat them with. I will share the recipe tomorrow. He also did peaches when they came in season....two versions actually. A regular one and a spiced one with cinnamon and cloves. He did a few jars of pickled beets, chow chow and something else but I can't seem to recall it.

Primitive Folk Art Patterns

2011-10-01T20:44:00.003-03:00

Just wanted to let my blog readers know that I have updated under "My Patterns" and added a few of the downloadable Epatterns I have created. Also want to let you know that as soon as this craziness of the craft market next weekend, I am adding NEW PATTERNS!!!!!!!!!! If all goes well......I shall be adding at least 10 new patterns. It has been way too long

Thanks for being patient while waiting so long. I love seeing what folks create with my patterns.

31 Days of October

2011-10-01T20:24:00.000-03:00

One of my best friends Heather, made a post about a blog challenge that she is taking part in for October. Right away I was all jumping around my creative space and thinking OH YEAH.....me too! Me too! Then just as quickly, I stubbed my toe, lost my footing and landed face first into the mountain of doll parts and painted canvas on the floor by the end of the bed.
Seems as I am up to my eyeballs with muslin, thread, paint tubes, canvas and dirty water for a craft market in less then a week......here is the scoop :

I sat down and quickly made myself a logo. Figured best way to get ready to commit is to have spent time fighting with the PSP program I have. Nothing gets the creative mojo flowing like that. So the logo is now added (and I'm actually loving it).

I wrote on bright post it notes and stuck them in strategic places that will catch my eye each day, like the desk and my panty drawer......I will do my best to sit down at some point in each day and add something to the blog. Sometimes you might luck out and get a big old ramble about something. Other days, it could be a snapshot of something I'm sewing on or maybe painting. Other days you may hear what I had for lunch and see a photo of one of my cats.

I'll do my best to aim high ;)

Tigger

2011-09-11T21:03:00.001-03:00

Then Tigger thought the best place to dry those wet feet was on top of the truck while watching the two new windows get placed in the livingroom. The weather was perfect : blue skies and no bugs!

Wet toes

2011-09-11T21:00:00.001-03:00

The grass in the backyard was still covered with a layer of morning dew and someone thought they needed to follow me down to the toolshed when I went for the rake, hoe and wheelbarrow. I love kitty feet :)

Shattered Heart

2011-09-11T20:51:00.000-03:00

So much pain and hurt being felt. Not just because today is the 10 year anniversary of 9/11. I was blessed enough while growing up to go to a International school for a few years while living overseas due to my fathers job. I became friends with children from around the world. Glimpses into their lives and cultures were given to me and those memories have stayed close. They bring me great happiness and laughter can escape my lips when remembering the times back then. Blessed again I became when I was able to reconnect with so many of them thru social media elements such as Facebook and Twitter.
Catholics. Jewish. Hindi. Muslim. Buddist.
I watch the torment happening around the world and feel a small piece of my heart shatter each time. I think of my friends around the world now with families of their own. Some are doing well. Some are in the midst of the chaos happening.

I pray for PEACE and the simple sound of laughter to return to children.

Remembering September 11

2011-09-11T20:34:00.000-03:00

Annapolis Royal Farmers Market

2011-08-29T01:06:00.000-03:00

Saturday mornings (Mid May - Mid October) 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

What a glorious way to spend Saturday! The big storm was heading our way Sunday evening and who knows what sort of mess we'd have to be cleaning up and taking care of so we talked about it and opted to head to Annapolis Royal early Saturday.

The fog was thick when we first left and I was beginning to think it wasn't the best of ideas we could have come up with. That thought quickly past as the fog burned off and the tables beckoned us with their wares.

2011-08-29T00:40:00.000-03:00

Tigger Kitty loves when we are outside with him but he wanted nothing to

do with the snapping and cracking heat maker we were sitting next too

......so up onto the winter woodpile he climbed and laid down.

Silly Kitty!

Playing with Fire

2011-08-29T00:33:00.000-03:00

Ok so actually I wasn't the one who was playing with fire.

He built and burnt the whole shabang but it was fun to unwind

from the day and snap some pics of the flames licking about.

Hope you enjoy them.

For the full effect....click the photos and you'll see them full size.

Evening Bonfire

2011-08-29T00:21:00.000-03:00

Rustic Backyard Beauty

2011-08-28T23:46:00.001-03:00

One of the old apple trees that needs to be taken care of to bring her back to being able to produce some wonderful crunchy orbs of delight. The cat likes to race at her quickly and climb up her twisted trunk. I am keeping my eye out for the perfect wind chime to hang from her gnarled branches

The sunlight reflecting behind the many pieces of Queen Anne's Lace growing wild in the field. Lupine bloomed earlier that stole my heart. Goldenrod blooms at the moment as well.

Pantry Progress

2011-08-28T23:35:00.000-03:00

Some primer has been added to the now sanded smooth shelves in my pantry space. I am madly in love with this room that he built. We have already been super busy canning different fruits and veggies to stock the shelves. A wee bit "horse before the cart" but its working

Queen Anne's Lace

2011-08-28T23:32:00.000-03:00

Simple snapshot of Queen Anne's Lace growing wild in the back field

I dream of a Ride On Lawnmower

2011-08-28T23:21:00.000-03:00

We have been doing our best to gain back lawn that has overgrown the last few years into quite the wild field. This home has been in his family for many years and the field used to be a number of large gardens and orchards of multiple types of fruit trees. We are SLOWLY working on creating that again.

I really really really........

have I mentioned REALLY

want to own a ride on lawnmower!

This is the path thru the back field towards the woods that we have managed to take back again. It quickly gets out of hand with rain and sun though so we have to try to keep on top of things.The backyard we take turns keeping mowed. In the next few years we've talked about planting peach, apple, pear and maybe even a few plum trees. A small strawberry patch used to be back there in a raised bed that he hopes to make happen again as well.

2011-08-28T23:06:00.000-03:00

Silly cat that we have.....the other evening, we couldn't find him anywhere. I was calling his name and shaking the treat bag. Nothing. We knew he was inside and the treat bag is usually the best way to gain his attention.
Then I remembered that we'd opened the door into the bedroom being worked on. Some boards had been placed inside out of the rains that were due in the next few days. I peeked in and spotted this.......

From his scrunched cheek....you can tell there isn't much room for him in this space he thought he'd take this little cat nap.

He looked like he was comfy so we left him slumbering for a few hours......it was the least we could do after he worked so hard at finding this new spot.

Word Jumble

2011-08-28T22:50:00.000-03:00

Not using it as an excuse per say.....but many nights the thoughts that I want to spill out onto this blog page just seem to smack around in my head and stay jumbled.So frustrating to fight with the thoughts and act of writing. I am working at getting better.

Where do you blog?

2011-08-28T22:47:00.000-03:00

Where do you blog? Are you set up on a desk with a full on PC? Do you use a laptop so you can sit in the comfy chair next to the large bright window in the kitchen nook area? Are you blogging using your phone?
Do you think it makes a difference in how you write?

I have my main computer set upstairs on my desk hutch in the far side of my bedroom. The hutch holds all my "writing tools" like dictionary, thesaurus, quote journal, vodka bottle......ok so not really a bottle....more like a small flask ;)

I have a laptop but don't find myself using it for blogging. I like the feeling of sitting at my desk and writing. The desk covered with scraps of paper with quick ideas and messages jotted down in my hen scratching.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door

Guy's Frenchy's

2011-08-28T22:40:00.000-03:00

Work is going well still at GUY'S FRENCHY'S in Digby........hard to believe that I've been working there since January. The gals I work with are great and many giggles happen during a shift.

Bear River

2011-07-02T16:43:00.000-03:00

Don Rice had his pottery wheel going as well. Watching the clay move around the wheel with the wet sponge and his fingers gliding over it....magical!

Bob Snider

2011-07-02T16:37:00.000-03:00

Singer/songwriter Bob Snider is equally at home playing music on the street or in the largest concert hall. He's been called a national treasure, a folk hero and one of Canada's best songwriters.

and it wouldn't be a Bear River celebration without hearing Bob's guitar and voice floating at you from the midst of it all. He was just sitting on the edge of one of the picnic tables and strumming out his tunes. Here is a sample of Bob's music.

Bob Snider singing one of his original songs

Bear River Nova Scotia...... more artisans along the waterfront

2011-07-02T16:19:00.000-03:00

Different folks had their portable easels and art supplies all set up.....pencil sketches, ink dawings, pastels.....it was so awesome to watch their work just jump off the pages before our eyes. This fella was amazing.......his sketches spoke to my soul and make me want to get my ink pens out of the back drawer again soon.

Then an older couple had pulled in next to us at the parking lot. He set up a small table and still life props. Pastels were his choice of medium.

Bear River,Nova Scotia celebrates Canada Day 2011

2011-07-02T16:07:00.000-03:00

Many different Artisans from the Bear River area come out to the waterfront to showcase their talent.

Woodworkers

and more woodworkers

Just look at the detail of this carved box......it was stunning pieces of work!
As we moved on thru the trees along the waters edge....

She was making a few small pottery pieces right there on her table. He really liked her mugs and I fell in love with her plates and little bowls.

Beauty after Rain

2011-07-02T15:50:00.000-03:00

Christy Tomlinson... The She Art Workshop

2011-02-27T16:59:00.000-04:00

Christy Tomlinson

Is a 3 week e-course the begins February 28th! In this workshop, I'll be learning how to create unique and detailed "she-Art" girls, as seen in Christy's art and mixed projects. I will also be taught how to create backgrounds, textures, and layering styles on canvases and other surfaces! I am beyond excited to be taking part in this class.

I have stacks of canvas, bottles of paints and at least 3 mason jars of brushes to play around with. I have been searching around for oodles of goodies to play with. A friend even brought me a vintage newspaper from France that is dated 1941! I can't wait to use pieces of it in my work.

Christy's work has inspired me for ages now and when I saw this chance to take a course by her, I couldn't jump quicker.
I'm positive this won't be the last time I chat about her and her workshop.
Have you ever taken a workshop? Did you enjoy it?

Blessings
Tracy Cedara Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

PINK

2011-02-27T16:37:00.000-04:00

Another gal that I am constantly listening to is PINK.
There is something about how raw she writes that strikes a nerve within me.
I love sitting back on my bed or at my desk and cranking her music while I create.

Adele

2011-02-27T16:31:00.000-04:00

I am beyond LOVING this woman's voice!
The jazz blues range she has and I admit, her English accent draws me in as well.....stunning.
I've been playing her videos steady for the last few days now and just picked up her cds over the weekend
Have you heard her? What do you think?

Blessings
Tracy Cedara Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Kim Klassen's PhotoShop Skinny- Mini

2011-02-27T14:40:00.000-04:00

As I have mentioned a few times over the last little while, I'm trying to really LEARN all I can about my camera and what I can create with it. I have been taking photos everyplace I can imagine. Different angles and so on. A friend of mine told me to check this website out. She thought it would be something I'd find highly useful in my new passion. WOW....was she ever right!

KIM KLASSEN

Simple instructions on how to use Adobe Photoshop to add texture and depth to my photographs.

I am quickly becoming addicted to textures. OH MY! There aren't enough words to describe the fun that can created. I will be sharing my own photos soon showcasing the tips and steps that Kim shared. I am so excited.

Take this course......not only is it incredibly easy to follow and learn...it's FREE!

Blessings!

Tracy Cedara Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Guy's Frenchy's

2011-02-27T14:32:00.000-04:00

I've been working at Guy's Frenchy's for just over a month now and LOVE IT! The hours work perfectly for me and the gals are fantastic that I work with. I sort clothes right now and in the next few months will be trained for on cash too.

Chicke drumsticks for supper tonight!

2011-01-03T11:09:00.000-04:00

Walked by the freezer earlier and thought I best take something out. Everything looked good so I just closed my eyes and reached in.....chicken drumsticks is what I managed to pull out.

I'm thinking Oregano chicken will be happening tonight ;)

Mmmm so good!

The Artist's Way

2011-01-03T11:02:00.000-04:00

The Artist's Way

Another incredible book that I have been wishing to own for quite awhile now has ended up on my bookshelf. My sister and her family gave it to me this Christmas and I'm looking forward to reading it over and over.

Some of my other artist friends had mentioned it to me so I asked my local library to bring it in for me. I started reading it and quickly knew I wanted to OWN this book. It is beyond full of wonderful insight on how to restart your artistic engines. I bought a brand new journal to do the exercises. Just skimming thru it as managed to spark something in me. I can hardly wait to have that spark burning full force.

Julia Cameron also runs a web site to go along with the book.
I plan on reading all that she has there as well.
Go there and check it out and then rush to get your own copy of this amazing book.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door2

Another book!!!!

2011-01-03T10:47:00.000-04:00

150 Projects to Strengthen Your Photography Skills: Essential Techniques, Exercises and Projects for Aspiring Photographers

When David and Kim had asked for a few gift ideas, I had placed this book on my little "wish list", never thinking in a million years, that I would actually get BOTH books for my gift.

I was so excited and have been falling asleep each evening with my nose buried in the pages. Some of the things are a bit "over my head" still as I really am quite new to photography. I think with some time though I can see my love of taking photos expanding and (fingers crossed) becoming quite good.

I sure am loving the journey it's taking me on along the way.
Have you seen this book before? Did you do all 150 projects?
How many did you make it thru?

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door2

The Digital Photography Book

2011-01-03T10:31:00.000-04:00

The Digital Photography Book was a Christmas gift this year from David and Kim. When they asked me to point them in the right direction of what to get me for a gift, I knew I wanted to ask for this book. Having just splurged on my FujiFilm FinePix HS10, this would be a wonderful book to get and devour.

It is written without all the techno-photo-speak that so many books are written in that just confuse me after hardly making it to the third page. I wanted something easy to read and still aid me in capturing amazing photos.
This is PERFECT!

I have been having a blast reading and even taking some quick notes. Sample pictures have been taken as I learn new techniques and I am looking forward to sharing them soon.

Do you have this book in your collection? Did you find it to be helpful?

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door2

A Creative Blog Catches your Attention

2011-01-03T09:15:00.000-04:00

A clever craft blog to catch your attention needs to have what many like to call *eye candy*.

If you don't capture your readers within moments of landing on your blog, you will have a much harder time in getting them to stay around long enough to read anything that you have written. No matter how good you are at flowing words together, they'll never know because they will have moved on.

I have discovered digital scrapbooking and often use these fun digital elements to enhance my photographs when possible. There are numerous digital scrapbooking web sites that offer so many playful elements you can download right to your computer. Many offer tutorials on how to use their products as well.

Everyone is drawn to a beautiful photograph and if you take the time to offer your readers the same, they'll keep coming back to see what you are treating them to next.

Here are just a few of my favorite sites:

Shabby Princess
Shabby Blogs
Scrap Girls
The Shabby Shoppe
Digital Scrapbook Place

Enjoy!
Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Well hello Monday

2011-01-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

When the alarm went off this morning, I couldn't even open both eyes at the same time. Beyond tired but I forced myself out from under the warm blankets and placed my feet onto the winter chilled floor. Both eyes opened then!

Anyone that knows me can pass on the knowledge of me not even coming close to being a morning person. With the computer issues(~~stupid #(@&&^@**^#wireless connection~~) that I'm having though, I really need to squeeze in as much online time as possible on this other computer in the house. So that means up and at the morning before anyone else is awake.

Had a wonderful Christmas Season with family and friends. Pretty low key compared to other years but so much more quality I think. Spent yesterday taking down the decorations and the tree. ~~(Shoving 8 boxes)~~ Placing a few boxes back under the stairs until next year. Sweeping and moving back furniture to get the living room; in order for 2011 to get into full swing. Dusting will ensue today as I swear some of those dust bunnies that I saw yesterday growled at me and bared their teeth. I needed till today to gather my courage

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door 2

No One Cares What You Had For Lunch

2011-01-03T08:10:00.000-04:00

No One Cares What You Had For Lunch: 100 Ideas For Your Blog

A book that I treated myself to this holiday season. I really was laying the ground work, so to speak, on how I want to better my crafting business in 2011. Getting back into blogging on a much more regular basis is one of the biggest changes I hope to make.
Somedays you sit and just stare at the screen though and I wanted a bit of help that I could reach out for right away.

It was not an expensive book at all and it has ...well 100 ideas...... to gently nudge me when needed. Small enough that it can stay on the desk and not get lost in a shuffle of papers in the drawer.

Some of the ideas I already knew and use but there were quite a few pages that made me raise my eyebrows and think....oh now THAT will be fun to do and share.

Do you own this book?
Have you found it beneficial to your blog?

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Kelly Rae Roberts

2011-01-02T17:14:00.002-04:00

Sometimes you stumble across something and it alters your life.
That really is how I feel about Kelly Rae Roberts.

Blog hopping one afternoon and not really looking for anything in particular. Typing words into search engines and seeing what comes up. I came across a painting and it just jumped right out at me off the screen. I just stared at it and knew I had to learn all about who created it.

I found her website and looked at every piece of art she has created. Clicking links on her web site, I saw she had a blog. I spend the next little while reading each of her posts.
I was inhaling everything I could from her. Something about her words and painting was striking a cord within me. It awakened something in me that I wasn't even aware had been sleeping.

The day I walked into a local shop and found her prints...oh you should have seen me freaking out with excitement. I raced to the checkout with 2 different ones and knew right away they'd be hanging in my art space.

One of the books I treated myself to over the holidays Taking Flight :Inspirations and Techniques to Give Your Creative Spirit Wings has opened my eyes to a new way of creating art. I bought paints, inks, canvas and a multitude of other supplies to play with.

Do you read her blog?
Have you bought any of her artwork because something about it just spoke to you?
Does her book sit on your bookcase in your art room?
This won't be the only post about this incredible artist and woman that you will be reading her.
I can't get enough of her.

Tracy(Cedar)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Blog Family

2011-01-02T16:49:00.000-04:00

Don't let the sheer number of amazing blogs that are available to read, overwhelm you. The creative blogging community is friendly and doesn't encourage competition. Of course you'll find blogs that appear written by people who are more graceful then you think you are or who appear to lead more exciting lifes. Don't focus on that.

Write proudly and share your thoughts. By doing this, you will naturally attract the readers that are right for you. You don't even have to leave your home. Fancy clothes and shoes that pinch your feet don't need to be worn. No one will know you wrote that incredible post in your flannel jammies while sipping ~~vodka~~ hot chocolate. Within moments, you are connecting with kindred spirits and exchanging ideas, dreams and encouraging magic to explode.

Everyone has a space in this blog family!

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door 2

By the way.... Family

Liberate Your Inner Writer

2011-01-02T16:02:00.000-04:00

When I sit down to write, I tend to imagine talking on the phone to a friend. I'm not concerned about things like grammer or sentence structure, or how my writing flows. This sort of conversational way of writing works well for me and forms a basic template to create my blog posts from.

I say hello (the introduction/topic of my blog posts); then I share some details (which acts as the body of the post);then I say goodbye for now(the conclusion of the post).

*Zero in on one topic per post instead of several when at all possible. You can ask the usual series of questions like who, what, where, why and how? Always keep in mind that with storytelling, you want to SHOW and not TELL.
If you follow this advice, even the shortest blog post can be packed with vivid and entertaining details.

*Write from your heart as you'll have a better chance of connecting with your readers and engaging them to follow your blog.
Get them to feel your excitement and other emotions, thru your words and photos.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door2

Rediscover the Joy of Photography

2011-01-02T15:21:00.000-04:00

What is a blog without incredible eye candy?

BORING!

Blogging has helped me rediscover my love of photography. Having an eye-catching photo can be quite an asset to your blog posts. The unique way you captured an image might be what grabs a readers eye when they first land on your blog. It can pull them in long enough to get them reading and before you know it, you have faithful followers.
Look thru your favorite magazines or surf other blogs that you enjoy reading. What draws you to them? What about their photos captured your attention first? Think about lighting and how you will crop your photos before you snap your photograph. Whenever possible, shoot without using the flash. Natural lighting really adds a nice touch to your photos if possible.

Remember angles when shooting...... don't go for the angle that everyone else always shoots from. Go above. Go below. Shoot from the side. Shoot in B&W. Don't be afraid of the camera. Take it off Automatic and play around. It's digital. If you don't like the shot, you can delete it.

Within the last few months, I treated myself to a brand new camera. I went for the FujiFilm FinePx HS10.
I've had a number of FujiFilm cameras and am thrilled with this newest one.
Lots of bells and whistles to play with and share some new "eye candy" with my readers.
As I play, I will share photography tips as I go

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door 2

Will 2011 Be The Year You Begin to Blog?

2011-01-02T14:43:00.001-04:00

Give yourself an excuse to explore and dream

If you are on the fence about starting a blog, don't think about it too much. Just start and see what happens. It's super easy to do and many of the blogging sites are free (This one is!)

The beauty of a blog is that it is never a finished project, so you don't have to worry about "achieving perfection".
Treat your blog as an always evolving canvas. There will always be something new to try and learn. Always something to write and share with folks.

Find a few blogs within the creative blogging community to help guide you when you find yourself stumbling. Creative prompts, like Illustration Friday, are numerous and wonderful ways to play.

What is the worst that can happen?
Nothing.......but you will know you at least gave it a try.
Keep writing and gradually, you'll carve your own niche within the blogging community.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru The Attic Door 2

Another Blogging Tip

2011-01-02T14:16:00.001-04:00

When you sit down to blog and the screen just stares back at you......nothing seems to want to form a post worthy of sharing.
SHARE A QUOTE.

It can be someone famous.
A quote that makes you laugh.
A quote that makes you think.

Give credit to the author of the quote you are sharing.
You can even match a quote to a photo you are sharing or a mood you are wanting to convey.

Stacked on my writing desk are journals that I write quotes down when I find ones that strike a cord within me. Some nights I flip thru the pages and conjure the memories of when I first found the quote or why it means so much. I plan on sharing some of my favorite ones with you ,my followers.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

2011

2011-01-01T23:15:00.000-04:00

I make them and I break them.
It doesn't start out that way but it always seems to happen.
This year, I'm just not making any.
I know what I HOPE to have happen in 2011 for myself and my business.

As they happen.... I promise I'll share :)

New Years Resolution 2011

2011-01-01T23:13:00.000-04:00

Allow Yourself to be Free

2011-01-01T23:08:00.000-04:00

Many times, I've had someone tell me how creative I was and that they didn't have an ounce of creativity themselves. I always tell them, they just haven't looked in the right direction yet. Being creative isn't just being able to paint on canvas or sew a doll. Some find their creative voice in how they bring a garden to life. Others hear that voice while in the kitchen mixing ingredients into a mouthwatering memory. For some, their creative voice comes thru in how they weave words together and tell stories.

I truly believe that everyone is creative and that if we allow ourselves the freedom to play with creativity, no matter what we are doing, it will only grow stronger. Allow yourself to be free.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Frozen

2011-01-01T22:37:00.000-04:00

Creative energy flows in cycles. It took me awhile to catch on to this rhythm of my creativity. When I experienced a down cycle, I would sort of panic. I'd feel blocked and begin to question myself and my creative process. FROZEN.

Now when it happens, I take that time to collect, gather and research. Walks along the edge of the property;day trips to the local bookstore or little farm markets.

Next thing I know, ideas are flowing again and my creative energy becomes unfrozen. Like spring flowers budding thru the last of winters snow.
A new season of creativity is upon you.....enjoy!

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru The Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Ignite Your Creative Spark

2011-01-01T22:12:00.000-04:00

REMEMBER... An unanticipated event that pops up in the midst of your usually ordinary day can be that SPARK that ignites a story that just begs to be told in your blog.

Photography Tips to Ponder for your Blog

2011-01-01T22:03:00.000-04:00

* Get up close and personal.
Always think about how your subject matter is being positioned in the photo you are building. Get as close to something as possible. If you stand too far away, your subject is going to get lost in the background and the photographic message you are trying to tell will be muddled.

*Look at things differently
Changing your position by using items like step ladders or bending down on your knees can capture an image in a brand new way of looking at it.

*Don't be Afraid to Delete
The delete button is your friend and you should always remember to use it. Have fun while experimenting with your camera and take lots of photos with learning all the bells and whistles of your camera. You can never take too many photos. Move around a subject to capture it from all the different angles possible.
Anything blurry can be deleted.
Anything plain can be deleted.
Doesn't cost anything to delete.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Blogging.....again

2011-01-01T21:48:00.002-04:00

Primitive Raggedy Doll

2010-07-17T23:55:00.002-03:00

This is one of the newest primitive raggedy style dolls that I've made in the last few weeks. She has stolen my heart and I'm working on her pattern.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Growing and Harvesting Oregano

2010-07-17T23:48:00.001-03:00

I've been busy harvesting my Oregano patch and the house smells incredible. I use this herb in so many of my recipes. Once I filled my basket a number of times (14 times to be exact), I took some heavy twine and created bundles of the Oregano to hang for drying.
I placed it in the spare room upstairs where it was cool and dry. It takes a good few weeks to dry and then I store it in a gallon size mason jar.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Molasses Cookies....oh so yummy!

2010-07-17T23:41:00.002-03:00

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour, measure after sifting
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups butter, at room temperature, (2 1/2 sticks)
1 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
1 large egg
1/4 cup molasses

Preparation:

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Combine the first 6 ingredients, mixing well with a wooden spoon. Add the remaining ingredients; beat with electric mixer for 2 minutes or continue using spoon, scraping down the sides of the bowl a few times. Wrap the dough in waxed paper and chill for at least1 hour. Preheat oven to 350° with the rack in the center position. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until the tops are set, 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on wire racks. Makes about 36 soft molasses cookies.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Old Fish Shack - Freeport Nova Scotia

2010-07-17T17:42:00.000-03:00

Sewing Notions and Fabric

2010-05-01T13:16:00.001-03:00

Just thought I'd snap a photo of the old apple crates I have stacked against the large window in my bedroom(at the foot of my bed). They work so perfect for storing my sewing supplies that I need within an arms reach. I have Rubbermaid containers of fabric as well but these hold my "special" fabrics. The ones that I fight myself to have to cut into. I have mason jars full of buttons, rusty pieces, vintage hankies. That blue box you can see on the shelf hold all my patterns that I own. I should take a sideways pic of that to really give you a look at my addiction! haha

Where do you store your sewing notions, fabric and patterns?

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Sewing Space

2010-05-01T13:09:00.002-03:00

The corner of my room where I do my sewing. You'll notice the bed is right next to the table. There isn't much extra room in this bedroom. I've got everything possible jammed in here.

The shelf on the wall belonged to my grandmother and I use it to hold my needle basket, extra spools of thread and misc little sewing notions.

I usually have sketches of doll ideas on the bulletin board but took them down for the photo...can't have you knowing what is coming next! heehee

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Working on her Pattern

2010-05-01T13:01:00.002-03:00

Her sheep wool hair makes me giggle!
My Godmother asked me to create her as a gift for her granddaughter and I really love the way she came alive. It had been awhile since I'd done a round head primitive doll. Needle felting the hair is always so much fun and actually quite relaxing to work on.

Her pattern is being worked on right now :)

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Twice the Love

2010-05-01T12:51:00.002-03:00

Sometimes ya need a little push in the right direction to get crafting. My friend Sherry and I did a "double dog dare" the other day. Let's just see what we can create in one day and share photos on Facebook.

This sweet Raggedy gal was one of three gals I got finished and posted. She really made me smile and I am madly in love with the fabric that I used for her dress.

She was posted on Facebook and TWO different folks wanted her right away. I generally try not to repeat a doll too often but I had another section of the dress fabric so both will be getting her.
The original on the wooden spindle will go to my aunt up the valley. Another without a spindle will be going to live in Ontario.

Doesn't she make ya smile?

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Clouds

2010-05-01T12:47:00.001-03:00

Looked up from weeding the garden area and grabbed my camera to capture this shot.....love the look of the clouds and the old building

Oregano

2010-05-01T12:40:00.003-03:00

Oregano

One of my favorite herbs to grow and use.....its starting to poke its head up and smile at Spring. I've been weeding and pulling dead pieces off. The weather has been wonderful for working in the garden. Its been not touched for a few years so its loving the attention its getting now.
I can't wait to harvest and be using this wonderful herb in my cooking.

Do you grow fresh herbs? Do you have a favorite?

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

New Blog Idea....Hmmmm

2010-05-01T12:37:00.002-03:00

Easily sidetracked like her momma!

2010-05-01T12:33:00.002-03:00

JasPurr kept telling me she wanted me to take her picture but then would get easily sidetracked by the lens cover dangling on the side...*sigh*

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Gingersnap Cookie Recipe

2010-05-01T11:08:00.003-03:00

Gingersnaps

1 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup molasses
1 egg
2 1/4 cup flour
2tsp baking soda
1tsp ground cinnamon
1tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp salt
granulated sugar

Mix brown sugar, shortening, molasses and egg in large bowl with wooden spoon.
Stir in flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and salt slowly, stirring well. It will be hard to stir towards the end and I then use my hand to mix it smooth.
Place in clean bowl,cover and refrigerate at least one hour.

Heat oven to 375F.
Grease cookie sheet lightly.
Shape dough by rounded tablespoon into balls by rolling in palm of your hands.
Dip top into granulated sugar. Place balls, sugar side up, on cookie sheet.
I then press down slightly with a fork.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set.
Let cool on cookie rack.

Makes about 4 dozen cookies

ENJOY! They are sooo yummy with a tall cold glass of milk.
Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Diane Knott ~ Watercolor Artisan and friend

2010-05-01T10:57:00.002-03:00

Many years ago when I first was introduced to the ways of the "web" and I was looking for places to hang out and play, I was told the magazine Country Sampler had a forum.
I joined and quickly jumped right into the fun. So many wonderful people were there and talking about crafting and decorating. We all had such a love for that magazine too.
One of the woman that I became friends with was Diane Knott.

We talked many times while on that forum together about watercolor painting and so much more. Time has a way of happening to so many and I drifted away from that forum. We lost touch. Many times I've seen her work and wondered how she was doing.

I was blog hopping the other day and was THRILLED to see Diane has a blog! OH YEAHHHHHHHH
I spent a good hour or so reading thru her blog and catching up. I made a comment on her blog as well so she'd know I had dropped by. (Bloggers love that...hint hint) She wrote me back! She remembered me as well.
It was so nice to hear from her again. Please stop by her blog and check out her incredible watercolor paintings. The way she takes a photograph has inspired me right now as well. I'm going to be having some fun with my camera soon. You can also buy fabric based on Diane's painting so you know I'm going to have to try and get my hands on some to create a special doll!

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

2010-05-01T10:44:00.001-03:00

This is so folks can follow me on Twitter.
I'm trying to get into a better habit of writing there. Its tough with a limit of words as you all know I love a good long ramble ;)

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Fun New Graphics

2010-05-01T10:37:00.002-03:00

Created this graphic to take folks to my Flickr album that showcases my primitive dolls and folk art creations that have already sold.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

My Primitive Raggedy Dolls in Prims

2010-05-01T10:30:00.006-03:00

as featured in Prims magazine by Stampington &Company

2010-05-01T10:24:00.003-03:00

My folk art styled black rabbit that is in the Gallery section of Prims magazine by Stampington & Company

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Prims Magazine by Stampington & Company

2010-04-28T20:14:00.003-03:00

Pinch me because I still can hardly believe I'm part of this incredible magazine.

Months ago, I was doing my usual routine of checking email and saw one from someone I didn't know. I thought *scam* right away as they were asking me to take part in a new magazine coming out. How many magazines contact YOU to take part, right?

Delete

The next day, there was another email saying the same thing. I thought to myself...hmmmm.....bit odd for scammer to email again right away. What harm will it do to look further into this?

*WHEW*

Stampington & Company were creating a new magazine focused on primitives and they were interested in my creations. Jennifer Jackson(Managing Editor and Art Management Supervisor) had found me on Flickr while researching.

Jennifer was such an incredible woman to deal with thru this whole process. She answered all my questions and there were an number of them. I'd never done anything like this before.
She told me which of my primitive creations she had found on my Flickr that interested them for the magazine. I had to recreate two of them as they were already sold pieces.

Boxed them up and crossed my fingers to see which of the 3 creations were chosen.
HOLY NOODLE....all 3 of them were. You can not imagine the amount of "happy dancing" that went on after reading that email from Jennifer. I may have started the pinching then.

When my copy of Prims arrived....I was blown away!
The quality of this magazine is so high. The photography of each person's creations is stunning. Some pieces just left me speechless. I found myself slowly pouring over each page, drinking in the smallest of details.

I have gotten nothing but astounding feedback from folks who saw my article in the magazine. I've become better friends with a few of the unbelievable talented artisans also showcased in Prims. What a bonus that has turned out to be.

Thank you so much Stampington & Company, Jennifer Jackson and other staff for finding me and then believing I would be an asset to this magazine

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

Jumbled

2010-04-28T08:53:00.002-03:00

Ever just sit down at your desk(couch~bed~where ever it might be that you type) and all the letters just sort of jumble together?

Have had so much I wanted to sit down and add to the blog but hit a blank wall every time. The path from my thoughts to my typing fingertips seemed to be all twisted.

I was getting so frustrated with it all and have to admit that I almost tossed in the towel. Did some soul searching and am back.

I can get thru this silly mind block....you've all stuck with me this long and I pinky promise to not let the jumbled words win.

Cartoon says it all

2010-04-28T08:49:00.001-03:00

Army of Ermas

2010-02-18T13:59:00.003-04:00

My day started as usual with emails, spam and my Facebook addiction.While playing one of a million games of Lexulous, I multi-tasked and opened a message from Stace. Next thing I know I'm breathing into a paper bag while the room spun around me.

She'd been chatting with some different writer friends of hers and they'd brainstormed about a humor blog that is Erma-esque in style but brought into the 21st century that they were calling An Army of Ermas.
Was I in?

Before I could give it a second thought I wrote back HECK YEAH and hit the send button.
Then frantically sifted thru my cluttered desk and found my trusty paper bag ....in......out.....in....out....in...
Stacey is an incredible writer and from what I've laughed at already, knows some crazy fun gals.
I'm honored she thought to include me in this new adventure.

We are making midnight margaritas - and I need to gather more ice and limes so have to run.

Stop by and say hello! We'd love to have you find a giggle or two.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door2

and more snow continues to fall

2010-02-09T11:00:00.002-04:00

Alright, I know that I live in Canada and that we have a winter season but this really has gotten out of hand. I love the way the snow coats the trees in the backyard. The footprints of deer and rabbit flitting all around. Its beautiful and calming.....but now needs to be over.

I ache for green grass.
Flowers opening wide to showcase their delicate hues.

I want to put the shovels away. The tractor to have the chains off the tires and dirt fresh plowed on its blade.

Heck.... I'd even settle for a few days of just SUNSHINE right now, Mother Nature. Is that really asking too much?

*sigh*

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Hoarders

2010-02-09T10:44:00.002-04:00

Compulsive hoarding is a mental disorder marked by an obsessive need to acquire (and failure to use or discard) a significant amount of possessions, even if the items are worthless, hazardous, or unsanitary.

Hoarders on AandE has opened my eyes to this disorder and I will admit that I am addicted to watching it. Looking around my own space, I see things differently now. I had piles of "stuff" and boxes crammed full to the ceiling. I had been doing well I thought containing most of my belongings to the one room in the house that was "mine" but in the last few months have noticed it spilling out into the other 2 rooms upstairs.

ACK!

Slowly , as I don't have a crew like the folks featured on the show, I've been going thru my belongings and getting rid of things that I know deep down will never get around to using. Its become clutter and just junk really. Special pieces that mean something have been kept. I am so proud of myself with what I've managed to go thru already. Its gets better each day.

The folks that agree to be on this show amaze me. They are opening themselves up to help others that watch to see it can get better. I wish every family the best of luck at keeping this at bay for them.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Spartacus on HBO

2010-02-09T10:34:00.002-04:00

OH MY! I am hooked on this show and my only complaint is that it conflicts with other shows Monday evening that get watched here in my home so have to stay up crazy late to watch....but I do!

Spartacus is a look into the world of gladiators from ancient Rome, filmed in the graphic style of 300. Blood happens alot. Sweat covers everyone. Nudity as well.
The costumes are incredible and I am really struck by the storyline.

Course he isn't difficult to watch for an hour either! ;)

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

and then came Colin James

2010-02-08T17:53:00.006-04:00

Yes! Colin James was the second concert that I got tickets to see and I was so excited. He was playing at the Halifax Casino and I'd be much closer to him then when I'd first seen him at the DMBF last summer.

The way he can manipulate his guitars makes a gal almost blush.

He had the crowd singing along in record time and I went away from this concert hoarse as well. He gave an incredible concert full of music that just makes you smile.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

2010 Grammys

2010-02-08T17:48:00.002-04:00

Pink's performance knocked me speechless!
That right there was what an entertainer is suppose to do.
She actually SANG the song while giving a mind blowing performance.

AMEN!

My mouth exploded with pleasure

2010-02-08T17:27:00.003-04:00

The same weekend that I went to Halifax to see Blue Rodeo play, I ate at an incredible restaurant.
Anatolia Turkish Cuisine that is found on 1518 Dresden Row Halifax.

Its a very small converted house with a few tables.The fragrant aroma of kebabs cooking on the charcoal grill that is visible from the small dining room instantly takes you to another culture. The tables are covered with Mediterranean rugs which I fell in love with. Ornate tile and copper pieces added a wonderful touch to the decor of the restaurant.
The menu was wonderful and very hard to pick something as I wanted to try one of everything.
The simple Turkish salad brought my taste buds alive after the first bite. Everything was fresh and so fragrant. I opted to try Turkish Iskender made with chicken and will have that again as soon as possible. My mouth exploded with pleasure! Fresh made Turkish pita laid on a plate with delicate slices of chicken breast covered in a spiced sauce and yogurt all baked in the oven. I may have even moaned with the first few nibbles.

I can not wait to go there again!!!

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Blue Rodeo performs in Halifax NS

2010-02-08T17:19:00.002-04:00

"Strange and beautiful
are the stars tonight
that dance around your head
in your eyes I see that perfect world
I hope that doesn't sound too weird
And I want all the world to know
that your love's all I need
all that I need
and if we're lost
then we are lost together
yea if we're lost
then we are lost together..........."

For a Christmas present this year I was given concert tickets and the first show was to go to Halifax to see Blue Rodeo!!!!! Oh how I love this band. I've seen them a number of times over the years and always come away with a smile on my face plus a hoarse voice from screaming along to their songs.

Dustin Bentall opened for them which was a bonus as I also very much love his work too. Blue Rodeo then came out and blew me away song after song. A few new songs that I heard for the first time and loved. The classics that within the first few strums across guitar strings or touch of the piano keys still manage to send chills up my spine.

Had an incredible time!

My life has a shirtless Sawyer again

2010-02-07T23:08:00.003-04:00

Such a simple way to make me smile...... Sawyer walking the beach with no shirt on LOST.

*sigh*

I know for many, LOST has run too long with not enough answers being given but I just can't toss in the towel. Its the finale season and I am as hooked as can be. Am hoping that answers start happening and loose ends are finally tied tight.

and many more shirtless moments are filmed ;)

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

then the lights went out

2010-02-07T22:57:00.001-04:00

The other evening the power went out. It wasn't even that windy but a tree branch must have struck the lines. The power was out for a good few hours. Candles were set around the table and eight Othello games later we finally just went to bed.
The way the wax was dripping caught my eye and I brought my camera out to see if I could capture the moment. I thought this turned out to be an interesting capture.

Cinderella and those darn shoes

2010-02-07T22:54:00.001-04:00

As a gal who loves a fierce new pair of shoes, this made me giggle when a friend sent it to me in an email.

Wii Fit Plus

2010-02-07T22:46:00.002-04:00

The Wii gaming system has been out for quite a while now and I have to admit that I've never shown much interest in it before now. I thought it was just for kids to play games on and since I have no children.....no need to own one.

WRONG! haha

My nieces got a Wii as the "family" gift this holiday season and as they were here with it, I got my first lessons on just how fun it could really be. The next thing we all knew, my folks were getting their own Wii system and also splurged on WiiFit Plus.

I am officially addicted! Am well aware how silly it sounds but it really does make exercising fun to do.
I have been doing not too bad at getting on about every other day. Have made great strides in bettering my posture and core balance. A few new high scores have been created that make me smile :)
May even get to a point where I'd allow pictures to be taken......but thats still quite a ways down the road.

Just one of those kind of days

2010-02-07T22:11:00.002-04:00

You know the kind of day that I'm talking about. Big plans are being made as soon as your eyes open in the morning but you see more of the day slipping by with not much being crossed off the list. Had the house to myself today and wanted to get cracking on a few things that needed my attention........ a small nap later and a few reruns of The Sopranos and poof....... its now evening.

So let me pour a cold drink and get ready to write thru the next few hours of the night.........

oh and I just thought this was a funny picture I caught of the cats the other day. Buttons Kitty was yawning as I snapped it from outside. heehee

Heart Shattered

2010-02-07T22:05:00.002-04:00

My heart shattered into a million pieces in the wee morning hours of January 16,2010 when my Grandmother passed away. She and I didn't always see eye to eye on subjects. Many times over the years we butted heads with each other.
Never once did I ever doubt for a second of her love for me.
Each day my heart mends a bit more but the ache will never fully go away. I miss her so very much.

I love you Gram and forever am proud to to carry your strong willed spirit within.
xoxox

Autumn Field

2010-01-14T09:57:00.002-04:00

Trying to get in the better habit of always having my camera with me when I go someplace. You never know when you might see something and think...oh how I wish I could take a picture of that.

Was walking down thru the abandoned field behind my friends home and the dried Queen Anne's Lace kept catching my eye.
The colors fading and blowing in the breeze.
Autumn's last grip on her season.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic door2

Meet JasPurr

2010-01-14T09:46:00.004-04:00

JasPurr came into my life when I was least expecting it but she sure has filled my life with laughter and joy.
Mom and I were heading into town and while driving past a house, I spotted a lady outside with kittens playing at her feet. Got mom to turn around so we could have a closer look.....and it was close enough we ended up taking one home!

The woman told us that the mother cat had been struck by a car a few days prior and we really don't know if we were scammed or not but it worked....we took the little black and one home with us. Buttons kitty was NOT thrilled at all the first few weeks but has since grown very close.
They make me laugh out loud every single day.
I adore my kitties.

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2

Facebook

2010-01-14T09:26:00.002-04:00

My silly addiction to Facebook is still as strong as it was. Most mornings I can curb things to a quick peek to see status updates and the odd photo.
Then there are days that hours escape me and all I've been doing is writing on walls, making comments on photos of folks I've hardly seen in years and playing a zillion games of Lexulous.

I will say that it has managed to help me forge some incredible connections and rekindled friendships with a number of people. I love that aspect.......just wish I could add a few more hours to my day to play more Lexulous! heehee

Tracy(Cedara)Dunn of Thru the Attic Door and Thru the Attic Door 2