Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Happy New Year 2020!


Before I drink too much and forget how to type...🤣😂😜...I am posting my New Year wishes for family, friends and everyone who has ever visited my webpage. Thank you!

May this year bring new happiness, new goals, new achievements and a lot of new inspirations in your life. More personally, I hope all your dreams and wishes come true!

Cheers!!!  🥂

Current Mood: 🥳

Credits:
Tube: "Glass of Champagne" by Alex Prihodko
Scrap Kit: Marley by Tiny Turtle Designs

Monday, December 30, 2019

Make A Wish

Another year ends...and we are all probably setting up goals for the new year.  Some of us want to lose weight, get a new job, move into a bigger house or just a simple wish for better health. We always try to reinvent ourselves, entering the new year feeling really good about achieving even a tenth of our goals within the first two weeks. Then sadly, by February those resolutions go out the door with last week's trash.

I am very guilty of setting up myself for failure by creating unrealistic resolutions.  I have always had the will power, the hard edge of determination that is needed.  Some may say it's stubbornness! The problem is I have too many irons in the fire to keep up the energy level to achieve even one goal.

This year I have decided on one small goal for myself. One thing I am sure of, if I want to do something bad enough, I focus all my attention on that one goal and I always get it done. It follows the old saying, "Where there is a will...there is a way!"

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 🤔

Credits:
Tube: "Make A Wish" by ©Vadis
Scrap Kit: FTU "Black Ice" by Tasha's Playground
Mask: Kapona #17 and #18
Background Tutorial by Dragonfly

Wednesday, December 25, 2019

Christmas Surprise

“What is Christmas? It is the tenderness of the past, courage for the present, and hope for the future."  ~ Agnes M. Pahro
Wishing family and friends a very Merry Christmas!  May all your dreams come true!

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:
Tube: "30-3 Christmas Puggle" by ©Maryline Cazenave
Scrap Kit: "Happy Christmas" by Pink Paradox Production
Mask: 10 by Kapona

Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Candlelight Service



"And when we give each other Christmas gifts in His name, let us remember that He has given us the sun and the moon and the stars, and the earth with its forests and mountains and oceans--and all that lives and move upon them. He has given us all green things and everything that blossoms and bears fruit and all that we quarrel about and all that we have misused--and to save us from our foolishness, from all our sins, He came down to earth and gave us Himself.”― Sigrid Undset


Happy Christmas Eve! We have reached the final days of 2019! Of course, the weather today is rainy and blustery. A bit on the chilly side.  Hopefully, it will blow out of here by tomorrow.

This evening I will be attending Christmas Vigil Mass, followed by having a small buffet service with drinks. It is an all around the Christmas Tree night!

I hope everyone enjoys this wonderful and miraculous evening with family and friends.

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 👼

Credits:
Tube: "Christmas Candle" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: Christmas Candle by Pink Paradox Productions
Mask: WSL_Mask_167 by Weescotslass Creations

Sunday, December 22, 2019

Holiday Wishes


Lovely dinner with family last night. Michaelangelo's is a very nice italian style restaurant on the northwest side of Tucson. They have the best lasagna in town! Of course, that was my entree and I ended the evening with Limoncello cake, my favorite.  Oh, it was for me, a two martini night!  🍸🍸

Spent a quiet Sunday afternoon reading and watching a movie, "Men in Black International" on Starz. Not a bad movie, just not as funny as I hoped it would be. The first movie in this franchise with Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, was hilarious!

I finished watching "Watchmen" on HBO this past week, which is set in an alternative America where white supremacists are on the rampage and Robert Redford is President. For a show about Watchmen, only a few are highlighted in the series. The heroine is Sister Night; baker by day, hooded avenger by night. The show is really quite well written and very thought provoking.

"His Dark Materials" also on HBO, has its final episode tomorrow night. This series I am enjoying very much and will give you my thoughts about it after the finale. 

I just started watching "The Witcher" which so far is very good! If you stream Netflix you should check it out!

As for "V-Wars" (also on Netflix) it was for me, a totally Ian Somerhalder experience. The show's concept is similar to "The Passage", except the book is ten times better. Virus turns people into vampires, doctor who happens to be immune, has to discover a cure. I was not impressed with Ian's role as a doctor in this series. I think he is at his best in a more sexier, dangerous role...doesn't have to be a vampire either. But!!! I will watch season 2 just to see Ian...much like I watch Tom Cruise movies...just to see Tom. 😆

Christmas feels different this year...it hit me hard when I went to get some stocking stuffers for our cat. I normally pick up gifts for Hannah as well...the thought of having Christmas without her made me fall back into a depressive state of mind. I must admit to being less than enthusiastic the last few weeks about preparing for the holiday. The house is empty and too quiet with her gone. 😞

Have a good evening everyone.

Current Mood:  😐

Credits:
Tube: "Blaze" by ©Zlata_m
Background Paper: "Christmas Red & Green" by Scraps by Pam
Cluster Frame "Holiday Wishes" by Tonya

Saturday, December 21, 2019

Candycane Cocktail

Saturday before Christmas....how many are going out to celebrate?  I know we are having dinner at Michaelangelo's this evening. It is our annual family get together, take a deep breath and relax before the rush of Christmas cleaning, baking, wrapping gifts...etc. The date was a bit tricky to settle on as everyone's schedule is wrapped around work, but we managed to get it all together. 😎

I hope everyone has a wonderful evening, no matter how you spend it.

Cheers! 🍹

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:
Tube: "Christmas Cocktail" by ©Alex Prihodko
Scrap Kit: "Goldeen" by Mizteeques Digital Designs
Mask: Miz_Mask331 by Mizteeques Digital Designs

Friday, December 20, 2019

My Cowboy's Night Before Christmas



MY COWBOY'S NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

‘Twas just before Santy came, the story is told.
Cattle weren't stirrin', fact they's bunched against the cold.
The tack was hung near the chuckwagon with care.
Why, we didn't know Santy was close anywhere.

Cowboys on the ground were wishin' for their beds
While nightmares of wild steers ran through their heads.
‘Tween now and the next gather, we needed a nap.
Cookie had just finished, and tied down the flap.

When out past the cavvy, there rose such a fuss,
I sprang to my feet, leavin’ the bedroll a muss,
And grabbin’ my shotgun and my ragged ol’ hat
I run t'ward the racket thinkin' “…what'n thunder's that?”

When thoughts of amazement through my head courses,
It was a buckboard teamed up with draft horses,
A driver in red buckskins, so spry and dainty,
I know’d in an instant, it must be ol’ Santy.

Quicker than jackrabbits, them horses they came,
And, he’s shoutin’ commands to each one by name…
“Get a step, Joe!. One more, Prince!. On, Big Ed!
Pick it up, Sam! Tighten up, Lou! On, Old Ned!

Don’t spook the cavvy, back away from them pens,
You’re a pullin’ this wagon like a bunch of ol’ hens!
Now, when I haul on these lines I mean to stop.
Hold up in this cow-camp like a ton of cow flop!”

They sat down in their riggin’, like I knew they would,
With a wagon of goodies … made of leather and wood.
Then, in a twinklin’ with no further delay,
He said, “Back it up, boys, this here ain’t no sleigh”.

I couldn’t believe my ears, and lookin’ around,
Off that wagon ol’ Santy came with a bound.
He was short, and his chinks reached near to his toes.
He was happy and fat, with a little red nose.

There was a ton of packages and some new tack,
And, ol’ Santy was carryin’ it all on his back.
His eyes sort of bloodshot, much like a cherry,
From "rastlin'" them horses clean across the prairie.

His lips was plumb puckered, his mouth drawn and droll,
(Mine got that way, the day I swallered my Skoal.)
He was holdin’ a piggin’ string tight in his teeth,
Not fer’ tie down, but for tyin’ "up" a fine wreath.

His head was too big and he had a round belly,
No doubt derived from eatin’ Texas Chili.
He’s chubby and plump all right, I’d say quite jolly.
I laughed plumb out loud when I seen him, by golly.

He winked his bloodshot eye, and spat ‘tween his lips,
And, it made me to know we were all in the chips.
He weren’t much for chatter, just done what was due,
Givin’ presents and goodies to the whole durn crew.

Then, he stuck his finger in his wee little ear,
Wallered it around and said, “We’re through bein’ here”.
He fled to the wagon, and his team called ‘em up,
“Come on you swaybacks … what’s the dad-burn holdup?

We won’t be back till next year ‘cause we’re flat broke.
Merry Christmas, my eye, I just busted a spoke!”


Wednesday, December 18, 2019

Coffee Break

The countdown to Christmas is getting shorter. Unbelievable how fast this year has gone by. The weather has been terribly cold for Arizona. The wind makes it feel like New York...temperatures in the 20's and 30's over here. What happened to our beautiful 70 degrees at Christmas time???

I spent today hunting for a used tire (yay..I found a place with plenty of tires in the size I need). Unfortunately, no one had a wheel I could use. Apparently my car is so old, I was told to go shopping for a wheel in a junkyard. HA! That's where I draw the line.  So I came home without the tire, shopped online and found one in a recyclable auto parts store. Whew! Now I just have to wait for it to arrive then go back to the used tire place and have the tire mounted. After that, find someone to put the tire on the car. Hopefully, this nightmare will be over by January 2020. 😐

Has anyone been watching the impeachment hearings?  I have been trying, but all the yelling gets on my nerves. I usually have to turn them off after a short amount of time. I get alerts on my phone anyway. Honestly, I would like to watch history unfolding without all the drama. Right now it feels like a three ring circus, clowns to the left and jokers to the right. On a side note, this will be the third President I have seen impeached...Nixon, Clinton and now Trump. I feel so old! 😞

One thing that always calms me down is working on tags. The one above was done following a tutorial by Vivienne's Paintbox.  I changed the tutorial a bit to fit this gorgeous tube by Verymany. I think it came out quite well.

Cheers!! 🍷

Current Mood: 🤔

Credits:
Tube: "Girl with Coffee" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: "Winter Coffeeland" by Pink Paradox Productions
Mask: Christmas Mask by Kisspg
Tutorial: "But Coffee First" by Vivienne's Paintbox

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Holiday Delight


Well, its official...only 9 more shopping days until Christmas! Is everyone ready?  I am!!! YAY! Just have to get a menu planned for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.🎄

This last week has made me thankful I am done with buying presents. Stress and I have become very good friends...add anxiety into the emotional pack as well. First, a doctor visit that didn't resolve my health issue...then car and truck repairs piled onto my hubby's birthday. A battery dies and  tire blows out.  At least the truck had its battery replaced on Saturday night by my daughter!  She is fast becoming the mechanic of the family! My husband's car is still sitting in the front of the house with a blown out tire (which looks pretty bad). So tomorrow, in addition to shopping for groceries, I will be looking for a tire too. Once that is done, I will need to have the tires changed out.  Ohhhh...least I forget...I also have a mammogram scheduled tomorrow as well. When it rains, it pours in this house.Living in San Manuel, without any car repair shops or decent grocery stores is truly becoming not only a challenge, but a frustrating experience.

I am hoping the rest of my week goes quietly and I can relax with my coffee and newspapers in the morning.  I have to laugh at myself because when hubby retires, I wonder how my mornings will be adjusted.  Life is an always changing force.

I am still missing my Hannah.  I haven't been without a dog since I moved to Arizona. It feels so strange to me...

Cheers!! 🍷

Current Mood: 😔

Credits:
Tube: "Christmas Candle" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: Winter Masquerade by Pink Paradox Productions
Mask: 30 by Kapona

Friday, December 13, 2019

A Prayer of Thanks


“We all go through hard times in life. It’s a part of being alive and it's the reality we all have to deal with. There are times we forget our value as a person because we are so blinded with these thoughts of loneliness, emptiness and ego. Somewhere along the road we become numbed with all the frustrations and dissatisfaction. But life itself isn't always about darkness and sadness, Life is also filled with colors and that makes it beautiful. Along this path of darkness there's always light waiting to be seen by our daunted hearts. Our heart is gifted to see this light. It may be hiding behind those circumstances that we encounter; in a stranger we just met at an unexpected place; a family who has been always there but you just ignored because of your imperfect relationship with them; it might be a long time friend you have or a friend you just met. Open your heart and you will see how blessed you are to have them all in your life. Sometimes they are the light that shines your path in some dark phases of life. Don't lose hope” ― Chanda Kaushik

Let us be thankful for those who reach out and touch our hearts when we need it the most. 

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:  
Artwork by Jack Sorenson

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Peppermint and Holly



Down  to only 13 more shopping days to Christmas! I am officially finished, but would have enjoyed wandering around today.  Lost my incentive after my doctor appointment...more blood tests in the near future and a return visit next month. I really don't understand why my blood pressure is still a problem, but hopefully these tests will get to the bottom of it.  Crosses fingers!

Celebrating my husband's birthday this weekend! I get to make the dinner as he doesn't want to go out.  It's hard to get everyone together for birthday celebrations, especially this time of year.  We are struggling with picking a date to have our annual before Christmas dinner right now.  It might have to be held early than planned.

Love Amy Brown's beautiful fairies...have a great collection of them. This one was part of a Christmas gift from CDO.  Unfortunately, Amy is no longer selling her tubes.  😞  I matched this fairy with a scrap kit I have had for a few years,  "Christmas of Old" by Freek's Creations. I don't think this kit is available for sale either.  😞

Cheers!! 🍷

Current Mood: 😞

Credits: 
Tube: "Winter" by ©Amy Brown
Scrap Kit: "Christmas of Old" by Freek's Creations
Mask: Winter Mask 1 by Dangerously Delicious Designs

Sunday, December 8, 2019

Snowfall



Beautiful! It's getting to look a lot like Christmas!  I am starting to get into the spirit of the season. 

Enjoy!

Current Mood: 😎

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Christmas Gift

Christmas Gift
Unbelievable that we are almost a week into December! I am trying to take it one day at a time. First things...first! A birthday is coming up quickly this week and that is garnering all my attention right now. I have a menu planned and I just have to make sure I get the gift.  He is easy to please...just a nice bottle of brandy!

Hopefully, I will get a chance to do cards...between grocery shopping and doctor visit...one more doc visit to go after this upcoming one. For some reason, this has been a more hectic holiday season for me.  One thing after another keeps cropping up on my calendar.

Friday was a rough day for me as Hannah's ashes came home and it rocked me back into a depressive funk.  I am slowly pulling myself out of it because tonight, hubby and I will be celebrating our anniversary. Time for me put on a festive mood! After 41 years...we do deserve to toast ourselves to making it another 40. Already feeling optimistic! Well, I am going to try...I think one extra dry martini with olives straight up might help...😀!!

Cheers!! 🍸

Current Mood: 😊

Credits:
Tube: "Fairylights" by ©Nocturne
FTU Scrap Kit: "Christmas Gift" by Pink Paradox Productions
Mask: Winter Mask 3 by Kapona

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Winter Morning

Winter Morning
It's been a very hectic time for me over the last few days.  Thanksgiving, Jury Duty (the trial of the century for me..haha!) and doctor appointments.  Rushing here and there with hubby...but we did find time to take a break and enjoy a nice lunch on Saturday and today, a quiet breakfast.

I was called for jury selection on Monday...but not to Florence. I was sent to the Superior Justice Court. So ok...we know that means local traffic violations or debt collector cases. When I saw the police officer check in as a witness I figured traffic violation and I was right. So began my day of waiting.  Finally they settled us all (24 of us!) down in the courtroom and began calling names to fill the jury box...ugh! I was #7.  Not good as they need 6 plus 1 alternate. They started with the personal questions and I figured I couldn't possibly be selected...HA! After eliminating half of the people called, they begin intense questioning of the remaining 12...remember I am lucky #7...so I get questioned again.  Once that was over we were removed from the courtroom while they made their decisions...LUCKY ME! I got Juror #3...and get sworn in.  Quick case...DUI...rest of the day was listening to witnesses.

Now while I am listening I am getting totally stressed out, as I had to leave the house early and drive the back road to Superior, Arizona. The drive is very scenic...beautiful in fact...but...this girl has a problem with steep hills and winding roads. Especially where one particular steep drop appears out of nowhere and it feels as if the road disappears and you think you are going to go flying over the edge. Roller Coaster rides and I do not mix well. So I really didn't want to drive that road back home...IN THE DARK. I have problems with my eyes driving in the dark. 😐

When the next witness called in as a no show for that day...we got released. Even though the sun hadn't set, I made the decision to drive the long way...down through Florence where the road is all desert flatland. For added assurance, I picked up my hubby on the way, and I chilled while he drove home.

Tuesday I drove in with hubby, dropped him off at work and took the long way home again when court was dismissed.  As I said it was a very quick case and we found the defendant "not guilty" since the police screwed up the DUI investigation and we didn't fall for their "retrograde blood testing". Two hours is two hours. Law doesn't say it's ok to take blood past the two hour limit and time travel back two hours with a few calculations, then say...oh but he was over the limit at time of arrest. Ummm...nope. If you can't get the tests done within the two hour time limit...sucks for you. We applied Arizona's own law against the State...sorry...the law is the law! 😂 We left the police officer stunned and we were out of there by a little after noon. 😂 I AM FREE!!! Well, from further jury duty.

Today my hubby and I had doctor visits...so we went to his doctor first, then breakfast and then we went to my eye doctor.

Good day because I didn't have to cook. Sad part of the day was when the vet's office called to let me know Hannah's ashes were ready to be picked up. 😢

Current Mood: 😐

Credits:  
Tube: "Winter Morning" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: Cerulean Snowflakes by Pink Paradox Productions

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Warm Wishes

Warm Wishes
Hope everyone is enjoying a peaceful and relaxing Thanksgiving Day! May this magical time of the year bring you the gift of good cheer!! 🍷

Current Mood: 🦃

Credits:
Tube: "Witch_2" by ©Alex Prihodko
Scrap Kit: Warm Wishes by Dees'Sign Depot
Mask: DD_WinterMask_2 by Dangerously Delicious Designs
Mask: DD_WinterMask_10 by Dangerously Delicious Designs

Saturday, November 23, 2019

A Taste of Winter

A Taste of Winter
A cute start for the winter season! I pulled an old scrap kit out of my hat and played with colors.  I am quite pleased with the results. I am finishing up on my blog theme for Christmas.  A little behind, I know, but I am making progress...life of course, is unpredictable. 

Weather feels like winter here in San Manuel, what happened to fall? I suddenly had to pull my jacket out of the closet this week. All the rain brought the temperatures down in the evening and early morning. The days seem to be flying by so quickly! Almost time to decorate for Christmas!

I am missing my Hannah and not ready to commit to getting another dog. I realize the new dog won't replace her, as every dog is unique in their own special way. I just feel empty inside whenever the subject is brought up. Oh believe me...I love dogs, so it's not like I haven't been peeking at puppies on breeder's pages. I have even settled on a few breeds that I like more than others. Let's face it...they are all adorable puppies, no matter what breed they are! But...I haven't been touched yet in my heart to commit. I keep seeing my Hannah's beautiful eyes. 

Oh..almost forgot...I have been called to jury duty at one of the justice courts...not sure I am thrilled about that experience to be, but yeah...should keep me occupied for a time.  But first!! Thanksgiving...🦃

Current Mood: 😔

Credits:
Scrap Kit: "Tina's Winter" by Pink Paradox Production
Mask: Miz_MaskXMS by Mizteeques

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Hardest Goodbye

Hannah (8 weeks)
Tonight we celebrate Hannah's life. She has been thoroughly spoiled this evening...choice treats with  lots of love and attention. This is her last evening with the family.

My Hannah will always have a special place in my heart.  She chose me.  I still see that sweet face looking up at me among all those yapping puppies while I tried to settle on one and watching as she waddled over to settle little tush on my shoe.  It was love at first sight, for both of us. She has been a faithful, protective and loving companion for us all.

Tomorrow morning she will cross the Rainbow Bridge and I will be with her as she takes her last breath. She will then be able to run once more. Running without dragging herself, without losing her balance, without the look of utter frustration and confusion on her beautiful face. I am sure her buddy Shadow will be waiting for her on that bridge. Oh the adventures they will have!!! I wish I could witness their reunion. 

Hannah...you were my favorite hello....and my hardest goodbye. We will meet again one day. Until then...run free my dear friend.

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Peace on Earth

Peace on Earth
Gorgeous tube by Alex Prihodko! I paired her with a scrap kit by Dees'Sign Depot called, Peace on Earth. This is my first tag for this holiday season. I am trying to get into a wintery holiday mood, but I am failing. It may take a bit longer to get my "muse" going...I keep resorting to gothic inspirations and the lovely steampunk. Never fear, it will hit me with a sledge hammer before Christmas Eve...I promise!

I have been watching quite a bit of television lately, with all the political hearings and Disney+ making its debut all at once.  Has anyone watched the new Star Wars series, The Mandalorian?  Well, I will leave my thoughts about it for another time.  The new HBO series, "His Dark Materials" has promise, but I am hearing noises about it not taking "Game of Thrones" place.  It really shouldn't, its a book onto itself. So far, the show reminds me of another movie based on the books. Remember "The Golden Compass"?  Same book, different title. 

This is going to be a difficult week for me...I will share the details as they occur.

Enjoy a peaceful day....🍁

Current Mood: 😢

Credits:
Tube: "Lyndsay" by ©Alex Prihodko
Scrap Kit: Peace on Earth by Dees'Sign Depot

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Steamy Notions

Steamy Notions
Another steampunk beauty, purchased recently...just love the look! I paired her with a scrap kit by Tiny Turtle Designs called "Steampunk Days". 

Went to see my PCP today as a follow up on a follow up back in August. I am doing well, my bp was 140/82, much better than it has been over the last year.  I have to get a mammogram done and two more doctor visits to go in December and I am free until March 2020.

This year I added two new doctors to my calendar, a cardiologist and a urologist. So now I think I have quite a number of body parts covered...LOL! Heart, kidneys, stomach/throat, boobs and eyes...and...oh yes I almost forgot my dentist.  Let's see what other health problems are going to crop up in 2020! I remember when my family doctor took care of  just about everything, even surgery. Just love this new medical game as I get older...juggling doctor appointments. 😜

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood:  😜

Credits:
Tube: "Steampunk 30" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: Steampunk Days by Tiny Turtle Designs
Mask: Miz_Mask_152 by Mizteeques

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Autumn's Dark Angel

Autumn's Dark Angel
Beautiful angel by Anne Stokes! I paired it with a wonderful scrap kit that I have used many times, its one of my favorites.

What is a black winged or dark angel?  I am of the opinion that dark winged angels are just like every other angel, a creature from heaven with pureness of heart.  Black wings may just symbolize they are the angels of protection, justice, vengeance, death and sorrow.  I don't find them evil, as I believe they keep the universe balanced. Consider them the angels of free will, who can also be rebellious at times, but only in the best interests of humanity.

However. I am quite certain that many people would disagree. An angel with black wings could actually be a different creature altogether. A demon. A disgraced angel. Or, they could be a representation of the occult. I will leave it at that, as I am not a theologian. I'm just a person who doesn't think you should call something that is evil...an angel. 😮

Having a lazy Saturday...hubby had to have gum surgery last Thursday, and he is recuperating nicely.  However, I don't get much done around the house when he's home. This doesn't bode well for when he retires next year.  I guess I will have to make some adjustments of my own, since I am finally on a schedule with household chores and needs.  (That alone took some time to getting used to, since I was always working even from home!)  I hope when he retires, I will get used to having him around all the time.

I have to laugh because everyone has been telling me, "wait until he retires, that's the biggest adjustment in life  you will have to make".  I always thought when he retired, we would be busy traveling, not adjusting to each other's presence in the same house.  Ummm...I may need a bigger house! 😂

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 😂

Credits:
Tube: "Angel Rose Saskia" by ©Anne Stokes
Scrap Kit: "Autumn Solitude" by Pink Paradox Productions
Mask: Mask_Viv_0038 by Vivienne's Paintbox

Friday, November 8, 2019

V-Wars

Ian Somerhalder
In all of my excitement about the new prequel to Game of Thrones, I almost missed the notice from Ian Somerhalder (yes, I follow him on Twitter), about the release of his new series, "V-Wars". 

From the comics by Jonathan Maberry and Alan Robinson comes V-Wars, where vampirism is caused by a millennia-old virus. The virus affects individuals differently based on their personalities and cultures. The only sad part about this new series is that Ian doesn't play a vampire.  Instead, he plays Dr. Luther Swann, a human doctor trying to understand the disease in order to cure his best friend.

I  have been waiting patiently to see Ian in a new series, no matter what the venue!!!  'V-Wars' can be streamed on Netflix starting December 5, 2019. I already have it marked on my calendar!!!

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:
Photo courtesy of Warner-Media

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Time Lapse

Time Lapse

Took a little break...no worries...back at the canvas and playing with the paints once more. I really love steampunk and am working on several pieces. I finally finished the one above...it was a bit of a challenge. I treated myself and purchased two more tubes from my favorite artist so I could create more! 😍

Days are cooler and I am enjoying this weather. Reminds me of New York in the early fall...cool days and chilly nights.  This is the time of year when you can actually smell roasted chestnuts in the air. Too many memories to sort them all out, but this is a wonderful time of the year to visit New York, before the cold settles in.

My dog Hannah is having a harder time getting up these last few days. There are times when she takes off running, chasing kid/rabbits and winds up almost crawling later on in the day.  I don't know how much more I can take watching her daily deterioration. I thank the Lord for the days that we have been given to spend with her and always hope for just a few more.  💔


Current Mood: 😟

Credits:
Tube: "Steampunk_23" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: "Like Clockwork" by Mizteeques Digital Designs
Mask: Stamp2 by Minja's Designs

Saturday, November 2, 2019

The Witch's House

The Witch's House

This is my last tag for the Halloween season.  I didn't realize I had made so many tags in the month of October! My muse was working overtime it appears.  Well, we shall see what my imagination comes up with going forward.  Right now I am working on a new blog skin...hopefully, I can finish it today and post it later tonight.

I am so excited about two television series, one will be released December 20th and the other sometime in 2020.

"The Witcher" hits Netflix next month...I have been waiting for this series for a long time...based on the series of books published by a Polish author back in the 80's.  I don't even think the books are available anymore...probably out of print.  I haven't checked Amazon, so don't take my word as written in stone. So many fantasy books are unavailable from just 10 years ago!

The second announcement that brought my heart beating fast was the prequel to "Game of Thrones", "House of the Dragon" coming to HBO! As you know, I love dragons and this prequel takes place 300 years before the original series, and focuses on the rise of the House of Targaryen! So yes...I am very excited about this series

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 😊

Credits:
Tube: "Alizi4" by ©DiLara_Elegance 
Scrap Kit: Miz Poison by Mizteequees
Mask: Miz_Mask_47 by Mizteequees

Friday, November 1, 2019

Witch Night

Witch Night
Today is All Saint's Day...it is also the beginning of the Druid new year, called the "Feast of Samhain", celebrated on November 1st...Happy New Year!!!

The Druid religion, dating back to 200 BC, was practiced by ancient Celtic tribes living in Ireland and parts of Europe. During that time, the Celtic tribes were close to nature. As a result, they worshipped many things in nature as their gods. No Druid god was more powerful, nor more feared,  than Lord Samhain, the "Lord of Darkness". Samhain reigned over the long winter months, with his power growing stronger only in the hours of darkness.  The poor fella could only roam the earth under the light of the moon.

During the night, Samhain would search the world for souls to capture and take them to his world, which of course was dark. To this day, some people put lights in their windows to help the dead find their way and keep Lord Samhain away.

So how do we celebrate this "Feast of Samhain"? It is typically celebrated by preparing a dinner to celebrate the harvest. The feast is meant to be shared with those who have passed on as well as those still with us. You must set a place at the table for those in the spiritual plane, providing an offering for them which each serving of food throughout the meal. In addition to those who have passed, friends and family should be invited to enjoy the feast with you. Typical beverages include mulled wine, cider, and mead, which should also be shared with the Dead.

Let us not forget...Samhain is also known as the witch's new year. It is a time to think about the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Tonight is therefore...the witch's night to fly! 🎃

If you thought the season ended on Halloween Night or All Hallows Eve as it's known to the Druids, you were wrong. Pagan religions give inference to “the Days of the Dead” which refers to the days of October 31st – November 2nd.  October 31st is Halloween or All Hallows Eve. November 1st is “el Dia de los inocentes” or the day of the children and All Saints Day.  November 2nd is All Souls Day or the Day of the Dead.

I will have one more tag for the Halloween Season to share...stay tuned. 😉

Party on! 🍷

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:
Tube: "Witch_11" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: Witch Night by Bella Carbena
Mask: 4hwmask2.fecnikek2 by Fecnikek
Tutorial: "Witch Night" by Vivienne's Paintbox

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Hollowed Soul

Hollowed Soul
London, England ~ 1769AD

It was a warm night in the month of June, a night filled with the scent of honeysuckle and wet earth, for rain had been falling throughout the day…ahh…but the night...the night was meant for roaming, it was meant for the hunt!

Lady Lilith smiles graciously into the dark eyes of the gentleman who offered to help her into the waiting carriage, his gaze sweeping the empty interior waiting for an invitation. Her full skirts brushing against the man’s legs while taking his hand, stepping up and settling into the richly appointed leather seat. Turning her head slightly to acknowledge his polite presence, she let her sapphire gems dance with delight in anticipation of witnessing his utter disappointment. She skillfully fluffed the long black dress of silk, smoothing imaginary wrinkles with a wave of her hand. Leaning forward from her seat to brush lips against his ear...warm breath of a whisper…” Alas Sir Martin, perhaps we shall meet again. One never knows when, until given the opportunity.” She manages a modest blush befitting a lady of her class, as she quickly closes the carriage door.

Stunned at his dismissal, Lord Martin blinked rapidly in his agitation. He was a man not used to being denied. He began to mildly protest, hoping to cajole this beautiful woman into compliance, before realizing his name had slipped from her lips. He knew he had never given her his name, having accosted her on the curb to offer his services. She was a stranger to him, yet she obviously knew who he was. Curious, he raised the walking cane which was always readily at hand and rapped on the carriage door…” Wait! A moment my lady. How do you know me?? Are we acquainted?” Obvious confusion reigning over his handsome features. 

She merely laughs at his discomfort, dismissing the gentleman with a flick of a scented fan. Pursing lips, anger flaring in the blue depths of her eyes, she raises a delicate brow and whispers...“thanks once more dear Sir for all your assistance this eve.” Leaning her head slightly out the window to call out to her driver, she inhales deeply to calm her inner demons, reveling in the scents and sounds of the night. Sir Martin is unaware of what a lucky man he was.  

The carriage wheels clattered over several cobbled streets of London, rocking its lone occupant, her fan in constant motion as she peers through the small window. Sapphire eyes scanning store fronts, vacant lots, rowdy bars, cemeteries and dark tenet building, searching for her prey. The night drags on and her patience is thinning. 

Wait! There...its...there...heart quickening in excitement, nostrils flaring as a scent is finally picked up. The hunt is over!  Ruby lips parting as the hunger in her belly rises. Rapping sharply on the roof of the carriage with the fan, a signal to stop immediately; the driver calls out to the horses, staying them easily. A deep shudder of fear sweeping through him at the sound of the carriage door opening. 

Lady Lilith swiftly descends, holding her skirts high, her face flushed with anticipation of the feed. Dismissing the driver for now, the carriage moves on to return within the hour. The driver is quite familiar with his employer's nightlife and doesn't hesitate to take his leave. 

She spies her victim, an old female stumbling around in a dark alley. This particular female is rather inebriated according to the scent emanating from it's pores. The area it was wandering in happens to be a very dismal playground of the poor. Those humans who often settled in darkness to imbibe their addiction, whether it being drugs or alcohol. Lady Lilith is very familiar with the location and smiles to herself, knowing it would be days before the body is found.

She moves quickly… so quickly that the human eye is fooled into seeing nothing, coming up close to her prey, inhaling a rankness about its flesh that brings a deep frown to her lovely features. Really!! Humans should be forced to learn about body cleanliness from the cradle. A bare dab here and there of crushed flowers doesn’t do the job as well as bathing fully in their lush fragrance mixed with lots of hot water!

Her poor quarry hesitates for a moment, fear making itself known, much as a deer sensing the lion. It doesn't understand the signals it's inebriated brain is attempting to send. Fear? Of what? Glancing around, it's drunken state keeping eyes from clearly focusing. It sees nothing, hears nothing...yet just in case, waves off whatever ghosts that may be haunting the alley. Stealing a hand into the pocket of it's skirt to withdraw a small bottle of rye, raising the bottle to take a long sip and almost falling against a brick wall. Catching movement out of the corner of her eye...what was that? Another stab of fear, deeper than before,  causing a loss of balance, stumbling forward to it's knees. Blinking back sudden tears, shaking it's head to clear the cobwebs,  heart beating like a trapped bird within it's chest, threatening to explode from behind a cage of ribs…calling out...” Who??? Who is there? What do you want?” words slurring as more guzzles are taken from the bottle. Nearly folding to a sitting state, succumbing to the numbing effects of large amounts of rye, head tilting back, peeking through gummy eyelids into the mesmerizing gaze of the most beautiful angel it has ever seen... gasping out... “Who…are…you?”

She can smell the female's fear, hear the pounding beat of it's heart, the steady throb of blood pulsing through engorged veins. Fear carries a sweet intoxication of its own, overpowering, seductive…making her salivate. She focuses her glittering eyes on the thick vein in the neck, fascinated at the site of  the ebb and flow of blood. The hunger rising swiftly, demanding to be appeased…the voices of madmen throughout the centuries screaming in hungry anguish, urging her forward. Snarling in her hunger, she swings her hand to snag the tangled, dirty brown tresses, yanking her prey off  it's knees, while her other hand closes tightly around the slim column of a neck. Fangs distended, she leans down to lick a spot clean on the dirt stained throat before placing a soft kiss on a vein of blue. Drawing her head back slightly she smiles...enjoying the squirm and writhe of her captured prey as it hangs helplessly in her tight grip. Pressing a sharp talon against a beating artery, she severs it completely and parts her lips to fully revel in the resulting spurt that splashes her lips, fills her mouth...gulping down the coppery tasting fluid of life. Screams fill the alley just as fangs slash, leaving a gaping wound as blood flows freely, copiously soaking the lace bodice and skirt of her silky gown. The sweet smell of death rising to waft tenuously, filling the air, raising her blood lust, encouraging her to dine with feral ferocity, taking more blood than was necessary. The silence is deafening. 

Dropping the body and wiping the back of her hand across ruby stained lips, she pauses for a moment to gauge her thoughts. There is no guilt, nor remorse for the kill. The hunt wasn't satisfying, devoid of the thrill of the old days…only being necessary for her own needs. She misses the chase, the way humans taste when their blood runs hot from exertion. How they run and try to hide...such an intoxicating scent of blood and sweat. It can be more pleasurable than sex! Does that make her a monster? Even more interesting, does she care? A few minutes later she comes to the same conclusion as always...she doesn't care...life is all about survival and she has been a survivor for a very long time.  

She sighs while gazing at her elegant blood smeared fingers, shrugging shoulders, begins licking each digit clean. The lukewarm meal gratifying to whatever remains of her empty, hollowed soul.

She stiffens, feeling another's presence nearby. Running the pink tip of her tongue over her fangs, she fully turns to narrow her gaze, seeking his form from the shadows. A trickle of electricity jolting through her full belly, limbs warm with the gift of life, her skin glowing with a soft flush of rose. Ah, he always makes her feel...human. 

“Darling…I’ve saved some for you.” Ripe red lips curling into a smile, the tips of her incisors barely showing against her lower lip, glittering sapphire eyes meeting rich dark ones, as her fingers smooth the layers of lace across her bloody bodice.

The hooded dark one steps closer to the discarded body, giving it a nudge with the toe of his boot. His lips curve into a slight smile at her words.

“A rather cold offering my love.” A curious tilt of his head, carefully perusing the lovely lady before reaching to caress her flushed cheek with the palm of his hand. “You know I prefer to drink from the source.” 

He lowers his head to sample her stained lips, flicking a tongue over the droplets of ruby that trickle down her chin. Sliding his hand around her neck, pulling her closer, drinking deeper from the well of her mouth, feeling the pulse of her heart, the shuddering of her body against his hard frame.

Sweet sigh of poignant release, getting lost in his kiss, the flames of passion rising between them…for centuries it has endured, burning brighter with each passing moment. She sways closer with an intimate press of her body to his…wanting him, needing him. Tongue dancing within the warm confines of his mouth, twirling around his own, beckoning him to her warm, wet playground.

He inhales the sweet scent of his beloved, thick fingers stealing through the strands of her hair, pulling it down from its carefully coiled state, curls tumbling over creamy shoulders. Tearing his mouth away from her lovely mouth, pushing her back against the cold brick of the building, gazing into her eyes, his hand reaching down to gather the rustling lace of her dress, pulling it up to expose the creamy expanse of her legs. 

His head lowers once more, cold lips steal over the warm flesh of her throat, nuzzling, lapping softly with the flat of his tongue, enjoying every quiver of her body against his. A soft prick of his fangs, the warm rich fluid filling his mouth...her gift to him. He seals the small wound with a kiss along with a gentle tease of his tongue over her healed flesh. 

"You have done well my love..." he whispers hoarsely against her throat..."ready for our next adventure?"

He is teasing her. She knows he will not accompany her on any adventure nor share her bed or his life...yet, she doesn't care. She knows tomorrow is just beyond midnight, with new prey to hunt and a million years to enjoy and wander this beautiful earth. There are many paths to travel, many men to conquer and make her own. That was his gift to her. ♥

A Touch of Lacie ~

© Copyright 2005 Lacie -- All rights reserved.
Writing.Com, its affiliates and syndicates have been granted non-exclusive rights to display this work

An excerpt from a short story I wrote many moons ago. Have a safe and happy Halloween!!

Current Mood: 🎃

Credits:
Tube: "Gretel" by ©Goldwasser
Scrap Kit: I'm So Hollow" by Dees'Sign Depot
Mask: Miz_Mask_152 by Mizteeques

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Restrained

Restrained

 "The dragons won't care about your blood, except maybe how it tastes. You cannot tame a dragon with a history lesson. They're monsters, not maesters". - A Dance of Dragons - George R.R. Martin

I love dragons, collect them in fact..from pictures to figurines. Of course, one of the reasons I started reading the Game of Throne books (before the television series) was because of "Drogon". I immediately fell in love with the story of how one woman controlled not just one, but three dragons.  The television show just brought Drogon to life for me.  

Cheers!! 🍷

Current Mood: 😃

Credits:
Tube: "Controller" by ©Anne Stokes
Scrap Kit: The Autumn Soul by Gothic Inspirations

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

The Judgement Card

The Judgement Card
Does anyone use Tarot Cards?  The cards were created in the 15th century and used to play various games. However, during the late 18th century, the cards became a source of divination and used for fortune telling.  Remember the old gypsy fortune teller, turning over the cards and reading someone's future? She was reading tarot cards.  🎃

Just for fun, get yourself a pack of tarot cards and see if you draw "The Judgement Card".  If you do, here are the meanings of this particular card.

THE JUDGEMENT CARD MEANING

The Judgment card in Tarot stands for healing. This Major Arcana card signals great transformation, renewal, and change. The basic symbols of the Judgment Tarot card are an Angel, trumpets, graves with people rising from them, and often water or an ocean.

UPRIGHT JUDGEMENT CARD MEANING
When the Judgment card is upright in Tarot, it symbolizes awakening, renewal, a well-lived life, better health, and a quickened mind. It can mean that you have to face a challenge head on, and make the changes required to succeed. You are ready to be judged and come out the other side. It is time to let go of the things that are holding you back, and step forward into your future.

REVERSED JUDGEMENT CARD MEANING
When the Judgment card is reversed in Tarot, it can mean fear of death, failure, possible loss, and ill health. It can mean you are turning your back on something you must do, and it is costing you. You are hard on yourself and filled with the thought that you are incapable of doing what you need to.

There are also Judgement Card love meanings, but....its Halloween time...let's just save it for Valentine's Day. I got these meanings from a webpage called. "Astrology".  You didn't think I knew all this by heart did you? 😁

Cheers!!! 🍷

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:
Tube: "43-1" by Enys Guerrero
Scrap Kit: Magic of Chichi by Gothic Inspirations
Mask: Miz_Mask_284 by Mizteeques

Monday, October 28, 2019

Pumpkin Spells

Pumpkin Spells
I discovered another wonderful artist. Her name is Kamilla Goldwasser and her tubes can be purchased at Pics for Design. The tube above is called "Belinda" and I matched it with the scrap kit "Witch Night" by Bella Carbena. Just love Bella's kits with so many elements and colorful papers to choose from.  I also recently discovered Bella has some gorgeous tubes for sale as well. Travel on over to her website, "Dreaming with Bella" and check it out. 😊

Three more days to go before Halloween! Our family is planning our candy wrapping for Tuesday night. Of course, we want to be sure we are ready when those goblins come calling. 👻 I get to man the front door first this year and I am hoping to catch the little ones.  They are always so cute in their costumes. Some are too shy to even shout out "trick or treat". 🎃

In the meantime....cheers!🍷

Current Mood: 😊

Credits:
Tube: "Belinda" by ©Goldwasser
Scrap Kit: "Witch Night" by Bella Carbena

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Midnight Collusion

Midnight Collusion

Almost everything happens at midnight. Ever notice the time when the ghouls and phantoms appear? Yup...its always around midnight.  Sometimes we watch the clock and prepare ourselves for the witching hour. Ever been truly scared? 

As a child I always dreaded the chiming of the clock at midnight. My grandmother would tell me it is the time when the devil walks the earth, hunting for bad souls.  Did I say my prayers? Was I a good girl that day...and hopefully...if I survived the devil's breath against my flushed cheek, would I be a good girl tomorrow?

I still ask myself those questions before I fall off to sleep, but at least I don't fear the midnight hour anymore. I just fear the answers to the questions I ask myself.

Cheers! 🍷

Current Mood: 😉

Credits:
Tube: "Dark Angel" by ©Verymany
Tube: "Black Wolf" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: "For All Eternity" by Dees'Sign Depot
Mask: 4HWMask2 by Fecnikek

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Wilhelmina the Guardian

Wilhelmina


“there is no courage in being fearless. Do you not know that? A person who knows fear and yet can still think of others, well, he be a brave man.”
Paula Brackston, The Witch's Daughter

A very good read if you ever desire to get into a book about how a woman teaches another in the art of witchcraft.
 
Cheers!🍷

Current Mood: 😊

Credits:
Tube: "Wilhelmina" by ©Verymany
Scrap Kit: Danse De La Morte by Pink Paradox Productions
Mask: CM-Halloween Mask by Creative Misfits

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Little Witch

Little Witch
“You know about witches, wizards. You can envision dragons, even if you presently think you are above believing in them. You doubt magic, but you have a word for it. Isn't that a strangeness that wears at you? All these things that you know all about, but you think you are above. Did you used to be able to shape the spell children use to find lost things in the grass? Did you always know to look at the sky, at stars, when you make your wishes? Who taught you the things your soul has always known?” ― Thomm Quackenbush, Don't Stop Believing

Current Mood: 😎

Credits:
Tube: "Little Witch" by ©Fiodorova_Maria
Scrap Kit: Dead of Night by Dees'Sign Depot
Mask: 4hwmask2.fecnikek(1) by Fecikek