tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21461906188418101202024-03-13T05:01:05.262-07:00Bead and NeedleTanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.comBlogger381125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-43834872514742545362016-11-15T11:11:00.001-08:002016-11-15T11:13:05.683-08:00ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK - A View From the Top ~ "Travel Tuesday"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-stelDQtBT_o/WCtPHDhmaSI/AAAAAAAAITM/u8oRWgNauqkBI6ZGhT1mX6iya1VdVz5mwCLcB/s1600/DSCN0233%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-stelDQtBT_o/WCtPHDhmaSI/AAAAAAAAITM/u8oRWgNauqkBI6ZGhT1mX6iya1VdVz5mwCLcB/s400/DSCN0233%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
As a continuation of my previous post on Rocky Mountain National Park, there are three ecosystems at work within the park. This is the ALPINE (elevations over 11,400 ft.), or as far as I chose to go hike up it that day. Far enough, really...12,005 ft. above sea level.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Po4Q1fLwWB4/WCtPImgtqdI/AAAAAAAAIUA/Vu0CmQ_fJgUZEPmQ3q2QWVmOKux871OTgCEw/s1600/RMN6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Po4Q1fLwWB4/WCtPImgtqdI/AAAAAAAAIUA/Vu0CmQ_fJgUZEPmQ3q2QWVmOKux871OTgCEw/s400/RMN6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Alpine Visitor Center sits further back in the park, along Trail Ridge Road. Out back of this beautiful center is a pathway to the top, known affectionately as "Huffer Hill". A smooth, paved trail to about the halfway point, where it's replaced by large stone steps to the summit. The Visitor Center itself sits at an elevation of 11,796 ft., meaning I climbed 209 ft. in a very short span...and I understood the meaning of the name.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MIsS_z0CH1k/WCtPJP_ZnbI/AAAAAAAAIUA/sANn02W8mmsDDEcBYU_jkQDbnvWa9SSzwCEw/s1600/RMN7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MIsS_z0CH1k/WCtPJP_ZnbI/AAAAAAAAIUA/sANn02W8mmsDDEcBYU_jkQDbnvWa9SSzwCEw/s400/RMN7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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AND, I had the proper footwear for my trek that day - no cowboy boots - no thongs (yeah, that will come later, as I trekked about the desert landscape in Hawaiian thongs this summer, also). The view from the top was spectacular, with plenty of photos stops/breathing breaks along the way up. I chuckled at how many times I heard, "Man! I thought I was in good shape" (even murmuring in my own head), ascending and descending.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-por1vRoD3Sc/WCtPHFF4b3I/AAAAAAAAIUA/h2hVSnCg9fo3UOS7andwZn8fUC5kSXxhgCEw/s1600/DSCN0237%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-por1vRoD3Sc/WCtPHFF4b3I/AAAAAAAAIUA/h2hVSnCg9fo3UOS7andwZn8fUC5kSXxhgCEw/s400/DSCN0237%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yes, "unbelievably spectacular" I say, while trying to slow my breathing to steady the camera. This is the land of the hearty tundra dwellers - marmots, ptarmigans, and the big horn sheep, though the sheep do trek downwards in the winter.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-520cyFJV8/WCtPIhuenrI/AAAAAAAAIUA/Cin2iL2PWyMJ_mqMrutv7zIAHDxmxauyACEw/s1600/RMN5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-520cyFJV8/WCtPIhuenrI/AAAAAAAAIUA/Cin2iL2PWyMJ_mqMrutv7zIAHDxmxauyACEw/s400/RMN5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Below the Alpine lie the Sub alpine elevations - anything falling between 9,000 and 11,400 ft. This is where the shrubberies and trees come back into play, and you'll find most of the larger animals within the park. We spotted four elk that ran into view at the bottom of that little mountain glacier, as we stood there taking in the beauty. Elk, deer, bighorn sheep - the Park is home to over 350 Bighorns, which were nearly extinct within it's boundaries in the 1950s. Binoculars are always a great bet...throw a pair in your trunk - you'll be glad you did.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ab593EoK8sU/WCtPH0YdAYI/AAAAAAAAIUA/Hicac__GyR01pWg-6dDs-Wy-cc_362icgCEw/s1600/DSCN0251%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ab593EoK8sU/WCtPH0YdAYI/AAAAAAAAIUA/Hicac__GyR01pWg-6dDs-Wy-cc_362icgCEw/s400/DSCN0251%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The third ecosystem within the Park is the Montane - this is below 9,000 ft. in elevation. Now you're in full-blown pines, firs, and aspens; wildflowers, birds, beaver, otter, and most of the larger animals. These are the areas that are fed by the runoff from winter snows in the spring and summer months. These are my Rocky Mountains - spectacular at every turn.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_Ov0Izp9j8/WCtPIET8YrI/AAAAAAAAIUA/IaGoTSzmPOc8epyjE4Z_Z6SJYSBMNJGFQCEw/s1600/RMN10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e_Ov0Izp9j8/WCtPIET8YrI/AAAAAAAAIUA/IaGoTSzmPOc8epyjE4Z_Z6SJYSBMNJGFQCEw/s400/RMN10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The west side of the Park finds you travelling alongside the Never Summer Mountain Range, opening to views of the valley and town of Grand Lake below. Upper right photo is of Poudre Lake.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kbRn0FW1taA/WCtPJMCLhzI/AAAAAAAAIUA/tgWGVkQr_BQJNEMLmbl9EzPVPJUdCf5FACEw/s1600/RMN9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kbRn0FW1taA/WCtPJMCLhzI/AAAAAAAAIUA/tgWGVkQr_BQJNEMLmbl9EzPVPJUdCf5FACEw/s400/RMN9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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THIS is where the Colorado River starts - just a tiny stream fed by runoff from snow melt, supplying water to some 60 million people downstream. </div>
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The Park - whether you approach east to west, or vice versa - is travelled via Trail Ridge Road. The innermost portions of this road are closed, due to winter weather conditions, from Mid October to Memorial Day (in May). You can still travel some of the lower elevations during that time...check <a href="https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm" style="font-weight: bold;">ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK</a> (that's a link right there, that will take you to the NPS website) for road closure information if you are planning on visiting anytime other than May through October.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bd6G3ktcQJk/WCtPHnpExVI/AAAAAAAAIUA/vUAmC6E_7b8J3dH3tKn3W1UD5AHpshVdwCEw/s1600/Full1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bd6G3ktcQJk/WCtPHnpExVI/AAAAAAAAIUA/vUAmC6E_7b8J3dH3tKn3W1UD5AHpshVdwCEw/s400/Full1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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A parting shot of Grand Lake, CO. In an attempt to push aside the day to day nonsense that has recently take over my time, I am working my way through Aspen tree fall color shots, taken in September. The first time I've been home to see it in all it's glory, in about 25 years. Back soon - get out and see something!</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-55967281171896028372016-11-01T17:14:00.001-07:002016-11-02T09:16:10.090-07:00ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK - Celebrating the National Park Service Centennial ~ "Travel Tuesday"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5N5DBv72ys/WBkXwv4nz7I/AAAAAAAAIRs/d8GXiQQ4-8MCDVKoM-JBW_JaqSnYdIDoQCLcB/s1600/Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5N5DBv72ys/WBkXwv4nz7I/AAAAAAAAIRs/d8GXiQQ4-8MCDVKoM-JBW_JaqSnYdIDoQCLcB/s400/Cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Happy 100th Birthday, National Park Service!</b></i></span></div>
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Since its inception on August 25, 1916, at the pen of President Woodrow Wilson (and 44 years after the establishment of Yellowstone National Park), the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our National Parks, National Monuments, National Memorials, National Military Parks, National Historic Sites, National Recreation Areas, National Seashores, National Scenic River ways, and more.</div>
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The third most visited National Park in 2015 happens to be in my home state of Colorado...</div>
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<b><a href="https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm"><span style="background-color: #f3f3f3; color: blue; font-size: large;">ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK</span></a></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(a quick click on the line above will take you directly to the NPS.gov page).</span></i></div>
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<b>I am also teaming up with... </b></div>
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<a href="https://www.cotopaxi.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><b>COTOPAXI</b></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(again, a quick click will take you there)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">They've allowed me access to some pretty great graphics for these two posts (too much photo overload for one). <b>As always, all photos can be clicked and clicked again (including the graphics), for enlargement.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"><i><b>"Cotopaxi is an adventure company that tries to get people outdoors and also, to do good. We are a Benefits Corporation, which means with every sale we make, a portion is donated to world heath initiatives, and our </b><a href="https://www.cotopaxi.com/collections/backpacks" style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: blue;">travel backpacks</span></a> </i><b><i>help us make the biggest impact"...</i><a href="https://www.cotopaxi.com/"><span style="color: blue;"><i>Cotopaxi.com</i></span></a></b></span></span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i> </i></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sT46MocyHvg/WBkgSCP2wHI/AAAAAAAAIR8/lcuzkZsINys6WnY4BA7oMLllB1gn9il4ACLcB/s1600/RMN1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sT46MocyHvg/WBkgSCP2wHI/AAAAAAAAIR8/lcuzkZsINys6WnY4BA7oMLllB1gn9il4ACLcB/s400/RMN1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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RMNP is located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, about 70 miles west of Denver. Nestled between Estes Park and Grand Lake, the Continental Divide and its eastern and western slopes run through the park; the headwaters of the Colorado River begin here, as well.</div>
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The park is filled with awe inspiring mountain views, lakes, and varied environments (from forests to tundra) along with just about any type of western wildlife you could hope to see (that rainy day we spotted bear, deer, elk, and a large gathering of eagles - perched roadside, seeking shelter from the rain). You'll also find easy access to back-country hiking trails and campsites, for those who want to get off the beaten path.</div>
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About a half mile into the entrance that day, we (and about 18 other cars) spied this sow bear and her two large cubs overturning boulders, on a hillside, in search of grubs. The Park Service Rangers were quick to disperse the crowd - believe me, I was nowhere near these magnificent creatures to get this shot (and only had a normal lens on my camera, hence the bit of blurriness)...ALWAYS respect the animal life, and give them a wide berth!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLVzJKjcpzQ/WBkgqvXsCaI/AAAAAAAAISU/mvt8U0GUSNoUxC3n2zlWLPbvvqVmIL3TACEw/s1600/RMN%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLVzJKjcpzQ/WBkgqvXsCaI/AAAAAAAAISU/mvt8U0GUSNoUxC3n2zlWLPbvvqVmIL3TACEw/s400/RMN%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The park encompasses about 266,000+ acres (or 415 square miles), and is one of the highest national parks in the nation - elevations range from 7,860 to 14,259 feet. Sixty mountain peaks over 12,000 ft. make for some breathtaking viewing. And, <i><b><u>300 MILES OF HIKING TRAILS</u>, </b></i>for those so inclined!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5YnZnaJf_vg/WBkgbSOWiXI/AAAAAAAAISA/FHJ2yNK0Q34PLbU6Ra1TRo3A6WRoQ85TQCEw/s1600/RMN1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5YnZnaJf_vg/WBkgbSOWiXI/AAAAAAAAISA/FHJ2yNK0Q34PLbU6Ra1TRo3A6WRoQ85TQCEw/s400/RMN1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For those who'd rather do their sightseeing from the comfort of the car, as we did that day (though we took <b>many</b> opportunities to hike some easier trails, or just pull off for photo ops), the Park offers Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge inspired awe even before the first motorist ever traveled it. "It is hard to describe what a sensation this new road is going to make", predicted the director of the NPS, in 1931. "You will have the whole sweep of the Rockies before you, in all directions." INDEED, you do! We traveled in fog and low hanging clouds that day, until we reached our first pullout and paved hike...</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0i_sq9-Y_XA/WBkgbeiMOJI/AAAAAAAAISE/VETrtJcj8esKyd7bMAG67aKsoTuaKh6IQCEw/s1600/RMN4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0i_sq9-Y_XA/WBkgbeiMOJI/AAAAAAAAISE/VETrtJcj8esKyd7bMAG67aKsoTuaKh6IQCEw/s400/RMN4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A quick, easy trail that led to this beautiful vista...our trek started in the fog, and cleared as we approached the end (along with quite a few more folk who didn't seem to mind the rain that day - the backwoods trails will see you far away from crowds like this).</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6hj1dX1YI0/WBkgf_eD-QI/AAAAAAAAISM/GikC8fh4cdUurjd0Z5kxXf51htq22vgEQCEw/s1600/DSCN0190%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6hj1dX1YI0/WBkgf_eD-QI/AAAAAAAAISM/GikC8fh4cdUurjd0Z5kxXf51htq22vgEQCEw/s400/DSCN0190%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I couldn't have asked for a more perfect window of opportunity when that curtain of fog parted.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4j3LF0-uSso/WBkgbaR97II/AAAAAAAAISI/R-WgzMbibUc-_1E4hrMifC4-Qd6dRwxdwCEw/s1600/RMN3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4j3LF0-uSso/WBkgbaR97II/AAAAAAAAISI/R-WgzMbibUc-_1E4hrMifC4-Qd6dRwxdwCEw/s400/RMN3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Trail Ridge Road (seen ever so faintly in the upper right photo) covers 48 miles between Estes Park and the town of Grand Lake, on the west side of the Park. Eleven miles of this road take you above timberline (the Parks' pines stop at about 11,500 feet). The road tops out at 12,183 feet in elevation, while winding across these beautiful mountain tundras. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TSfhUvaUPs/WBkgo2mUJiI/AAAAAAAAISk/FVfOJNUBF6El-hDWcGbAeDPV5fUaYGgiQCEw/s1600/RMN8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TSfhUvaUPs/WBkgo2mUJiI/AAAAAAAAISk/FVfOJNUBF6El-hDWcGbAeDPV5fUaYGgiQCEw/s400/RMN8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pullouts are plenty, and there's the Alpine Visitor Center at the top, if you really want to stretch your legs (and lungs) - more on that on Thursday.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SkfWTr6dtUY/WBkrrMILvbI/AAAAAAAAISo/39xJjvYET4wT6CB1OeGerDMqufpBrkSggCLcB/s1600/cotopaxi_national_parks_x2_v04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SkfWTr6dtUY/WBkrrMILvbI/AAAAAAAAISo/39xJjvYET4wT6CB1OeGerDMqufpBrkSggCLcB/s640/cotopaxi_national_parks_x2_v04.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://aventuras.cotopaxi.com/national-park-pride/"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">COTOPAXI - NATIONAL PARK PRIDE</span></a></span></div>
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Again, a click on the bold link will take you directly to Cotopaxi.com, where you can read more about what they are doing to promote our National Park Service, and helping you to get out and "Explore Your Park". <b>In need of a really great backpack?</b> Check out their <a href="https://www.cotopaxi.com/collections/backpacks" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: blue;">"Gear for Good" </span></a> (go ahead and click right there, or <a href="https://www.cotopaxi.com/collections/backpacks"><i><b><span style="color: blue;">RIGHT HERE</span></b></i></a>).</div>
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<a href="https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><b>NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CENTENNIAL</b></span></a></div>
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And, one more link to entice you to make a trek of your own to this grand old Park - or one in your <b>own</b> neck of the woods. Wherever it is, take the time to explore what it has to offer. Been there before? <b>Go again! </b>Relive the memories, and make a few new ones! Celebrate some of our greatest national treasures - 100 years strong!</div>
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I will be back on Thursday with the remainder of the photos I have for you, plus proof that I <b>do</b> own a great pair of hiking shoes, and didn't hike around in my cowboy boots this time. Thanks to my dad for another well-thought-out day in the beautiful mountains of home. Love you more!</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-66492207528830390772016-10-30T01:34:00.003-07:002016-10-30T01:44:18.872-07:00WHERE THE SHOWGIRLS WENT...VEGAS HALLOWEEN 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKaSpQHzAAk/WBWrMCUjLRI/AAAAAAAAIRM/AvaX6Yup0tAuwUR6SNLbYOj5QM-Ixty8gCLcB/s1600/Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DKaSpQHzAAk/WBWrMCUjLRI/AAAAAAAAIRM/AvaX6Yup0tAuwUR6SNLbYOj5QM-Ixty8gCLcB/s400/Cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Trick or treat...</b></span></i></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8guz2MuZvnA/WBWrMAwvX3I/AAAAAAAAIRQ/GMyTV_TUPUE9intcMB-ZZAQ_Vzqk1cwfACEw/s1600/Hallow2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8guz2MuZvnA/WBWrMAwvX3I/AAAAAAAAIRQ/GMyTV_TUPUE9intcMB-ZZAQ_Vzqk1cwfACEw/s400/Hallow2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Smell my feet!</b></span></i></div>
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(2016 saw the demise of the iconic Las Vegas Showgirl - evidently she was killed off by zombies! This fondant beauty is life size, and sits above the prep table at the fabulous Jean Phillippe Patisserie, inside the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas )</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYLS09LL6Xo/WBWrMEL6zrI/AAAAAAAAIRU/Iz1EbBV4V_8FpYI8WA1m774CARFxd0iZgCEw/s1600/Hallow1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYLS09LL6Xo/WBWrMEL6zrI/AAAAAAAAIRU/Iz1EbBV4V_8FpYI8WA1m774CARFxd0iZgCEw/s400/Hallow1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Give me...</span></b></i></div>
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(These are all fondant and/or cake creations - all edible - all incredibly detailed! The haunted house and skull thing are each approximately four feet tall)</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0t4a3jl84qg/WBWrMXEP6MI/AAAAAAAAIRY/-sk7_bG1z2gz87vtseifSEOpT6hs6aCkwCEw/s1600/Hallow3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0t4a3jl84qg/WBWrMXEP6MI/AAAAAAAAIRY/-sk7_bG1z2gz87vtseifSEOpT6hs6aCkwCEw/s400/Hallow3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">something...</span></b></i></div>
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(The charming and ever-appetizing "Condiment Area" - more fondant covered cake heads)</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NcOKhg6yfU/WBWrMhjNh3I/AAAAAAAAIRc/CeUN-TYWNt4SDukEd7TNly9imrGJGwzrACEw/s1600/Hallow4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5NcOKhg6yfU/WBWrMhjNh3I/AAAAAAAAIRc/CeUN-TYWNt4SDukEd7TNly9imrGJGwzrACEw/s400/Hallow4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">good to eat!</span></b></i></div>
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(I'm not sure, but the LARGE, evil snowman cake appeared to be eating the little tiny ones).</div>
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Back from a lonnnng hiatus - Dad (and anyone else who might be interested), I <i><b>PROMISE</b></i> a travel post on Rocky Mountain National Park on Tuesday. Pictures are all ready to go - I just need to fill in the details.</div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Halloween!</span></b></i></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-66429914502307380902016-09-07T12:00:00.000-07:002016-09-07T17:02:51.806-07:00OF TRADING POSTS AND TIMELESS TRINKETS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpjPMJv0g5c/V9BQ0Qmw9EI/AAAAAAAAIPw/JEHt_n5yOHYkuirSxAk07Roxr-vCO3i9ACLcB/s1600/zBellCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FpjPMJv0g5c/V9BQ0Qmw9EI/AAAAAAAAIPw/JEHt_n5yOHYkuirSxAk07Roxr-vCO3i9ACLcB/s400/zBellCover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I started a new collection of sorts (like I needed another), this summer...Bell Trading Post copper jewelry. These pieces are all from the 1930's to late 1950's, dated through the hallmarks found on the backs of each piece. All Indian-made, for tourists of the time. Still to be found, readily - these all came from antique stores in the Denver area. Still affordable, if you search out the right deals - nothing here cost me over $32.00 (three were under $15), though it's all worth more.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-isDVmGqEY2g/V9BQ4s0yyuI/AAAAAAAAIP0/avze3QxSdj0SoaXs0zV9NxFDqqMMg3GWwCLcB/s1600/Bell%2BTrading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-isDVmGqEY2g/V9BQ4s0yyuI/AAAAAAAAIP0/avze3QxSdj0SoaXs0zV9NxFDqqMMg3GWwCLcB/s400/Bell%2BTrading.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bell Trading Company was founded in Albuquerque, NM in 1932. Native American artisans were employed by the trading post to make jewelry for tourists (often behind windows where you could actually watch them at work) along the Route 66 corridor of the American Southwest. Copper was a big selling point for a lot of this touristy jewelry, due to low cost in manufacturing. It's actually come full circle in recent years, with many of today's Native American jewelers turning back to working with copper and brass due to high silver prices. Today's current metal prices: </div>
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<b>Copper - $2.10/lb.</b></div>
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<b>Silver - $19.79 oz.</b></div>
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Yeah - THAT'S why!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uf0ki6gttmA/V9BRFLQQ4iI/AAAAAAAAIQM/TJqVu5JDx2YmUIBTLNNgjwdFh8j5XlliACLcB/s1600/zBellBracelets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uf0ki6gttmA/V9BRFLQQ4iI/AAAAAAAAIQM/TJqVu5JDx2YmUIBTLNNgjwdFh8j5XlliACLcB/s400/zBellBracelets.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The turquoise in the butterfly bracelet is a synthetic, made using a type of epoxy and ground turquoise dust. Sterling silver jewelry items were also produced (as well as nickel silver pieces, which were more along the price lines of the copper), but the copper made for a line of jewelry that was well affordable to tourists seeking out real, Indian-made items. Copper was also touted as an arthritis relief remedy - then AND today, with so many athletes turning to copper lined clothing, necklaces, etc.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUrdYKrwFaU/V9BRC6OZybI/AAAAAAAAIQI/QQqucawutzAfVfvW1g0Gqaz6u5j4AB_3ACLcB/s1600/Maisels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUrdYKrwFaU/V9BRC6OZybI/AAAAAAAAIQI/QQqucawutzAfVfvW1g0Gqaz6u5j4AB_3ACLcB/s400/Maisels.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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Bell's competition, at the time, was Maisel's Trading Post - also in Albuquerque. The two businesses merged in 1935, and Maisel's is still going strong today - <a href="http://skipmaisels.com/index.php"><b><span style="color: #990000;">MAISEL'S</span></b></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zG-4T9B5ysQ/V9BRIJdBeHI/AAAAAAAAIQc/LPfoKtEDWEYbE4vkBb0PuFF6sG5ujUNGwCLcB/s1600/zBellHallmarks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zG-4T9B5ysQ/V9BRIJdBeHI/AAAAAAAAIQc/LPfoKtEDWEYbE4vkBb0PuFF6sG5ujUNGwCLcB/s400/zBellHallmarks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wondering where your piece is from? As in my post about authentic Indian jewelry, flip it over and look for a "hallmark". These all have the Bell symbol from the time period of the 1930s and the late 1950s. Sometime in the 60's the symbol was changed to an arrow with a hanging sign below it, and later, to a "Sunbell".</div>
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One of the "drawbacks" of copper jewelry (as anyone who was a child in the 50s/60s and had a copper ring or bracelet can tell you), is that it WILL turn your skin green. Skin is easily washable. Whoever owned a few of these pieces actually shined them up before selling them. I'm one who would rather have the patina, but it's all a matter of personal preference. These will patina again, over time (they neglected to get the inside, where you see the green).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YTXvqT4PIcc/V9BQ_xGrC3I/AAAAAAAAIP8/sdWTDHgnUKgx56Hz_PhiN3TMLtv-fgusgCLcB/s1600/FiveTraders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YTXvqT4PIcc/V9BQ_xGrC3I/AAAAAAAAIP8/sdWTDHgnUKgx56Hz_PhiN3TMLtv-fgusgCLcB/s400/FiveTraders.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Indian Trading Posts found throughout the SW were originally places of trade - the tribal artisans would bring items in for just that...trade. Many of the posts also dealt with pawned items, giving the Indians money to hold their pawned jewelry, saddles, blankets, etc., and selling it once the items went "dead" - meaning they were no longer wanted or retrieved by the owners. Today's trading posts work in the same fashion, though the artisan items are usually sold to the shops now. Clockwise from upper left - Cameron Trading Post, Cameron, AZ; Perry Null Trading Post, Gallup, NM; Santo Domingo Indian Owned Trading Post, Old Towne Albuquerque, NM; Jackies Trading Post, Taos, NM; Tuba Trading Post, Tuba City, AZ.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rp5YaPctI20/V9BRH_AdQ0I/AAAAAAAAIQU/XN_wYjiap44z1ZYSIbrNGNarHlB8XedhQCLcB/s1600/zButterflyBell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rp5YaPctI20/V9BRH_AdQ0I/AAAAAAAAIQU/XN_wYjiap44z1ZYSIbrNGNarHlB8XedhQCLcB/s400/zButterflyBell.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The top bracelet is done in the "Repousse" style, meaning the large raised designs were hammered into the piece from the backside - it is 1.75" wide, and cost me a ridiculously low price...SO low. The butterfly is 1.5" wide, and soldered to a full split shank bracelet - again, the turquoise is faux, but every piece here is, indeed, Indian made - and<b> heavy</b> copper. This one cost me $32.00. The two smaller bracelets? One was $6.00 and the other, $10. And, OK...the large one up top ran me $12 - fabulous antique store finds, and a great starting point for those wanting to get into collecting some beautiful pieces with a little Route 66 history behind them, at affordable prices.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PG9e58qE_Nw/V9BRCyb1t1I/AAAAAAAAIQE/ohop14nGdYwhvGcpD_znyjHaIniT5dLegCLcB/s1600/Richardsons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PG9e58qE_Nw/V9BRCyb1t1I/AAAAAAAAIQE/ohop14nGdYwhvGcpD_znyjHaIniT5dLegCLcB/s400/Richardsons.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Richards Trading Post in Gallup, NM - these cases shown hold old pawn pieces for sale, as well as being backed by a wall of pawned saddles.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q66HsaHXCi8/V9BRIKNY4hI/AAAAAAAAIQY/JMOjh1WpxMU5eonLkmKipiKSmodSMmzQgCLcB/s1600/zBellRepouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q66HsaHXCi8/V9BRIKNY4hI/AAAAAAAAIQY/JMOjh1WpxMU5eonLkmKipiKSmodSMmzQgCLcB/s320/zBellRepouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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On my newer copper pieces, I have protected the fronts of my bracelets with painter's tape, and sprayed a light coat of polyurethane on the inside, to lessen my arm turning green - it does work for awhile (depending on how hot the day is and how much my arm sweats under the bracelet), before eventually wearing off and requiring another coat. <u>Do not spray the faces of your pieces</u> - you can remove time acquired "color" with a simple once over with <u>REALLY</u> FINE steel wool, or a polishing cloth, if you like. Me? I can't wait for the patina to eventually reclaim this one.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZNy9exxWB8/V9BRC8wxM8I/AAAAAAAAIQA/SUqIaQm5v9M0BZJC1ZWzdjy5YASMtrCQQCLcB/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZNy9exxWB8/V9BRC8wxM8I/AAAAAAAAIQA/SUqIaQm5v9M0BZJC1ZWzdjy5YASMtrCQQCLcB/s400/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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While travelling between Santa Fe and Albuquerque last month, we dropped off the main highway to visit Santo Domingo Pueblo, hearing that the old trading post there that had burned down in 2001 had undergone renovations, and was set to reopen to the public.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6VLXlWSrP4g/V9BRFBuhr-I/AAAAAAAAIQQ/QyRarhu13WAxLP9IRh7-Z2ki9y1OMni0wCLcB/s1600/Santo%2BDomingo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6VLXlWSrP4g/V9BRFBuhr-I/AAAAAAAAIQQ/QyRarhu13WAxLP9IRh7-Z2ki9y1OMni0wCLcB/s400/Santo%2BDomingo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sadly, the date had been set and then cancelled, suddenly, with no explanation - the post remains unopened. We did drop into the Santo Domingo Pueblo, to walk through the beautiful old Church in the center plaza, and were treated to a visit at a potter's house. There is no photography permitted within the pueblo itself, hence a lack of photos, other than the trading post which is back on down the road. <b> </b></div>
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<b><a href="https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/route66/santo_domingo_trading_post.html"><span style="color: #990000;">SANTO DOMINGO TRADING POST</span></a></b></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7XBqMOpYwk/V9BRIRNGOMI/AAAAAAAAIQg/zS1RNwNiRwoC16kvKHAAmAwF8_4iy9hjgCLcB/s1600/zButterflySide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7XBqMOpYwk/V9BRIRNGOMI/AAAAAAAAIQg/zS1RNwNiRwoC16kvKHAAmAwF8_4iy9hjgCLcB/s400/zButterflySide.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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How something so kitschy and touristy has captured my heart, at the moment, is beyond me...another of those links to happy childhood vacation trips, and having a few precious bucks in my pocket to spend on beautiful treasures!</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-84834927554112231872016-09-04T13:00:00.000-07:002016-09-05T10:11:42.916-07:00EAGLE PLUME'S TRADING POST - Allenspark, CO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2OB9VqrtSbs/V8xitqnRuXI/AAAAAAAAIO0/dywDGfO7d5QjqrvfjS-VGgJuFpgF0_fSACEw/s1600/A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2OB9VqrtSbs/V8xitqnRuXI/AAAAAAAAIO0/dywDGfO7d5QjqrvfjS-VGgJuFpgF0_fSACEw/s400/A.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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On the less traveled road from Central City to Estes Park, Colorado - past the happiest carousel ever, in the sleepy little hamlet of Nederland - just a stone's throw from the beautiful old rock chapel of Camp St. Malo - sits something pretty special in it's own right. <a href="http://www.eagleplume.com/history.htm"><b><span style="color: #990000;">EAGLE PLUME'S TRADING POST</span></b></a> - I'm betting it has been close to <strike>50</strike> 25 years (at least) since we were last in there, enticed by a pronouncement of "treasures for good children", made by a grade school teacher. Dad and Mom took us then - they also took me last month. It was the first time since 1960-something that any of us had been back. Magical then - even <b>more so</b> through my adult eyes.</div>
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As always, clicking on the photos will bring them up larger - clicking again will enlarge them even more (and make them a little clearer...something in the collage process is making some of my photos a little blurry, as of late - I will be seeing about a remedy).</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MIUCCZ7blow/V8xit0qfznI/AAAAAAAAIO4/Dpf_voffLukkB5Fku2bIlJcjbu1ESU06ACEw/s1600/B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MIUCCZ7blow/V8xit0qfznI/AAAAAAAAIO4/Dpf_voffLukkB5Fku2bIlJcjbu1ESU06ACEw/s400/B.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Founded in 1917 by Katherine Lindsey, who sold antiques, art, and curios (as well as afternoon tea to customers), the shop was originally called The What Not Inn, later renamed Perkins Trading Post after her marriage. Influenced by her own father's collection, Katherine eventually shifted her focus to the arts of the American Indian, becoming one of the better-known dealers in the Western United States at the time.</div>
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A newer sign out front, but the building is much the same as it has always been. At the front door, we were greeted by a pine box for "Messages, Tall Tales, and Dirty Jokes"...there WAS one inside that day.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9sTJcQJeBM0/V8xit-Dm1oI/AAAAAAAAIO8/zNIHD7451WcWLv_8t9u_WSSe_C_5b5SGwCEw/s1600/C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9sTJcQJeBM0/V8xit-Dm1oI/AAAAAAAAIO8/zNIHD7451WcWLv_8t9u_WSSe_C_5b5SGwCEw/s400/C.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sometime during the late 1920's Charles Eagle Plume found his way to the trading post, endearing himself not only to the Perkins', but carloads of visitors. As Mr. Perkins' health declined, Charles was instrumental in helping out around the post - he and Mrs. Perkins continued to run the post until her death in 1966.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7B76cfWI54/V8xiui8cYkI/AAAAAAAAIPI/5JiTsyuGUzkWyWAx-06iDQuVO61GVMy2gCEw/s1600/Charles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7B76cfWI54/V8xiui8cYkI/AAAAAAAAIPI/5JiTsyuGUzkWyWAx-06iDQuVO61GVMy2gCEw/s400/Charles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Charles (he hated the name Charlie, I have read) not only entertained and enchanted visitors to the store over the years, with Indian lore and corny jokes, he also toured the United States, making a name for himself as a sought-after lecturer on Indian Arts and culture. I remember him as he was in the top right photo (perhaps a little less gray at that time). I also remember being given an arrowhead by him, just as my teacher had promised...one that was "misplaced" (or taken by my sister, who did things like that!) over the years and miles of my life, sadly.</div>
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Charles touched the lives of many people during his years of running the post and on his lecturing circuit. Before he passed on in 1992, he established the not-for-profit Charles Eagle Plume Foundation, which encompasses his vast, personal collection of over 1,000 pieces, housed at the store.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0OPfIuSzMw/V8xiuTdNJTI/AAAAAAAAIPE/XP-gXAeov7kiKQSC_fDgdg8JW3jCyPkBACEw/s1600/D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0OPfIuSzMw/V8xiuTdNJTI/AAAAAAAAIPE/XP-gXAeov7kiKQSC_fDgdg8JW3jCyPkBACEw/s400/D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They were more than willing to let me photograph inside that day - <b>ALWAYS</b> ask first. This trading post was a wonderment when I was 8 - even more so to me now, in more of a historical museum aspect. Charles' collection is incredible. As this is a "working" trading post, there ARE newer art, collection pieces, and jewelry items (as well as vintage pieces), available for purchase (my Mom went home with a beautiful pin that day), in addition to curios and items for the children Charles so loved.</div>
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Completely hand-beaded Plains Indian cradle board...</div>
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as well as hand beading on an incredibly detailed leather ceremonial "hair shirt".</div>
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The stairwell leading upstairs - all very old...all very loved - baskets, bead work, and a chief's bonnet that left me wondering if it was the one from the photo of Charles, up above. I'm just going to believe it was.</div>
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More jaw-dropping bead work, and a grouping of beautiful old, deep blue wool Crow dresses covered in Elk teeth, dentalium (long seashells), and antique coins. If you go, allow yourself plenty of time to take it all in...there's something interesting and beautiful at every turn!</div>
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Which brings me back to that arrowhead I was given, all those years ago...ok, it was more than the 25 I claim! On telling the ladies working that day, of my first trip and the fate of my arrowhead from Charles, I continued through the beautiful collection before me. A tap on the shoulder and an urging to open my hand found the black arrowhead above placed in the center of my palm, with my fingers closed back around it. The kind woman told me that Charles never picked out a certain arrowhead for any child, instead just reaching in and taking one, sight unseen - exactly as she had done with this one. <i><b>Dear Charles Eagle Plume - this one will stay with me forever! </b></i></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tI1qomqV-Vg/V8xiuL1pQrI/AAAAAAAAIPA/7Zz42ll-prUA2SczR9lxjsodNMZCpllBgCEw/s1600/Charles%2BLadies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tI1qomqV-Vg/V8xiuL1pQrI/AAAAAAAAIPA/7Zz42ll-prUA2SczR9lxjsodNMZCpllBgCEw/s400/Charles%2BLadies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thank you dear ladies, for rekindling some very special memories that day, and making new ones for us (there's a bittersweet story behind that clock in the photo, also...if you go, be sure to ask). Want to make some memories of your own - visit <b><a href="http://www.eagleplume.com/index.htm"><span style="color: #990000;">EAGLE PLUME'S - Real Indians. Real Indian Art</span></a> </b>by clicking on the red link, directly above, for more info on the store and directions on how to get there. <b>"</b><i><b>Epeheva'e - (it is good) This is a place unlike any other, ask anyone who has been here. A place with walls that whisper, floors that creak underfoot, a place with a rare history, a patina left by time and an endless parade of characters"</b>...<span style="font-size: x-small;">from Eagle Plume's advertising postcard</span></i></div>
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The punchline from the joke inside the box, from the photo up above (you thought I'd forget, didn't you)?: <b>Because they had their trunks down!</b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Here's to "dirty" jokes and Charles Eagle Plume! </span></i></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-26475910367678869902016-08-23T08:35:00.000-07:002016-08-23T14:50:29.455-07:00CONGRATULATIONS, LOUIE AND ABBI - AUGUST 13, 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Lots to show - lots to tell - and the summer isn't over yet. I have travel posts and more, now that I'm back, but wanted to start with the one dearest to my heart at the moment.</div>
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It's the reason my last post has been on for <strike>years</strike> months, and I apologize, but it was a nice post to leave in place.</div>
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This post starts a brand new chapter in our lives. My son, Louie, and his sweet bride, Abbi, were married two weeks ago, at the University Club in Denver.</div>
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In deference to the real photographer, I snapped only candids - the evening rehearsal and the big event couldn't have been better!</div>
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Short on words here, except to say it took our breath away, in more ways than one.</div>
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My daughter, Jaci, with her posse of groomsmen - two of whom have been her buddies just about forever.</div>
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I did notice my son's favorite chocolate cake, hidden inside this gorgeousness.</div>
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Their engagement picture received signatures from guests.</div>
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Beautiful University Club in downtown Denver, built in the late 1800's.</div>
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Rehearsal shenanigans...</div>
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Abbi enjoying the dance...</div>
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The wedding venue was a block away from Denver's beautiful, gold-leafed capital building.</div>
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My son told my parents, the evening of the rehearsal, that he was hoping to emulate their own marriage - I think he's off to a great start.</div>
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60 years strong!</div>
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Jaci and best man, Chris - one of the greatest friends ever, to both of my kids.</div>
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Jaci and her cousin, my sweet niece, Jessi.</div>
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And, for those who never COULD figure out the color of that damned Internet dress, proof positive that it was black and white...just like the chairs!!!</div>
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<i style="font-size: x-large;">Congratulations Louie and Abbi - here's to your own 60 years!</i></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-70084688458342754192016-06-19T07:51:00.000-07:002016-06-19T07:57:34.141-07:0060 YEARS IN THE MAKING! A TWO-FOLD FATHER'S DAY POST...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TGdefONDCsg/V2avVn44YZI/AAAAAAAAIMg/_0lH_8O4NAAxutoWpTBYepljsBOMg9NMQCLcB/s1600/60years.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TGdefONDCsg/V2avVn44YZI/AAAAAAAAIMg/_0lH_8O4NAAxutoWpTBYepljsBOMg9NMQCLcB/s400/60years.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Happy</i> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">60th</span><span style="font-size: large;"> <i>Anniversary, Mom and Dad!</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Happy Father's Day, Dad!</i></span></div>
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Because these two met, fell in love, and tied that knot <span style="font-size: x-large;">60</span> years ago, on June 17th.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: medium;">ALL </span><span style="font-size: medium;">because of that,</span></span></div>
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I AM!</div>
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<i>You have my heart, you two! XOXO Tony</i></div>
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Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-56735248068986126942016-05-30T07:08:00.002-07:002016-05-30T07:31:15.798-07:00HONORING AND THANKING...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiyPdu5V2i0/V0xLSQS3MAI/AAAAAAAAIMM/En2zWIFDryAf2SX1572ZVERmID_4wUsCQCLcB/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiyPdu5V2i0/V0xLSQS3MAI/AAAAAAAAIMM/En2zWIFDryAf2SX1572ZVERmID_4wUsCQCLcB/s400/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">GOD BLESS AMERICA!</span></i></b></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-38386163713012462302016-05-28T20:00:00.000-07:002016-05-29T07:06:09.487-07:00"MORE TEQUILAS THAN SEATS" - LA COMIDA MEXICAN RESTAURANT, LAS VEGAS...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wL81Vuxnqss/V0nDv5lUQBI/AAAAAAAAILI/5Ju7zyUtWbcm_7TzL2dh9DK8eWiQHyZhACLcB/s1600/DSCN7942%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wL81Vuxnqss/V0nDv5lUQBI/AAAAAAAAILI/5Ju7zyUtWbcm_7TzL2dh9DK8eWiQHyZhACLcB/s400/DSCN7942%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
This is one of those "damned if you do/damned if you don't" posts - something you want to keep secret, but you also want to make sure it thrives and stays where it is. La Comida, in downtown Las Vegas, is just that!<br />
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Straight from their own mouths: <i><b>"La Comida is a Mexican Restaurant with Mexican food and American rock. A sensory departure from reality with spice, sound, color and the warmth of tequila at the back of your throat. In the spirit of downtown Las Vegas, this venture takes a familiar favorite and twists it in unexpected and irreverent ways, as Jenna and Michael Morton are known to do, indulging both the simple taco lover and the mole connoisseur".</b></i><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzPR1zEspRk/V0nD184l2fI/AAAAAAAAILk/XUBSl-x8eFU8Un2llmHZr-P6G1A76VpuQCKgB/s1600/Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzPR1zEspRk/V0nD184l2fI/AAAAAAAAILk/XUBSl-x8eFU8Un2llmHZr-P6G1A76VpuQCKgB/s400/Front.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We stumbled upon this sheerly by happy accident. Jesus in the bar (seen from the open patio window, as we walked by), blessing the wine and tequila, made us do a double take - and it was all uphill from there. I've been back three times, since - each a new taste experience...definitely try the mole! That's a six foot neon skeletal monkey on the front of the building.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eKzgGfrSfCw/V0nD164RF8I/AAAAAAAAILk/CKFHQ-2qKz0HsZzz8W00xuL3AUCBVeJngCKgB/s1600/Entrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eKzgGfrSfCw/V0nD164RF8I/AAAAAAAAILk/CKFHQ-2qKz0HsZzz8W00xuL3AUCBVeJngCKgB/s400/Entrance.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Entrance is down "that" alley from the previous post (not <b><i>that</i></b> far down the alley - just off the main street), and is charming as all get-out. Calavera skulls and the Virgin of Guadalupe welcome diners.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kS2TEFz_EQI/V0nD11so9vI/AAAAAAAAILk/xryvGeBz1PkGG8bbbwpt2ieLE9kMlAT0gCKgB/s1600/Inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kS2TEFz_EQI/V0nD11so9vI/AAAAAAAAILk/xryvGeBz1PkGG8bbbwpt2ieLE9kMlAT0gCKgB/s400/Inside.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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With PLENTY of inside (as well as patio) seating, if their tag line is correct, the tequila list <i><b>must</b></i> be killer! Can't say <b>enough</b> about the food in this place - you'll have to take my word for it (and I LOVE my Mexican food), and just go! Servers are friendly; meals are plated on mismatched vintage dinnerware; margaritas come in mason jars; and the decor does, indeed, ROCK...</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v7iYNga32Dg/V0nDyFd7MKI/AAAAAAAAILg/NEbpmcqQMm8jfXcaJglveakUznmTKM-XwCKgB/s1600/BathroomAngel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v7iYNga32Dg/V0nDyFd7MKI/AAAAAAAAILg/NEbpmcqQMm8jfXcaJglveakUznmTKM-XwCKgB/s400/BathroomAngel.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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even in the bathrooms, where this beautiful angel with the neon halo stands watch.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0OExn7qmMzk/V0nDyLtsXsI/AAAAAAAAILg/yaGumqsu5eIrFd8pg3eHOfSPgp2EL1RGwCKgB/s1600/DSCN6811%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0OExn7qmMzk/V0nDyLtsXsI/AAAAAAAAILg/yaGumqsu5eIrFd8pg3eHOfSPgp2EL1RGwCKgB/s400/DSCN6811%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In town and visiting the downtown area...or LIVING in Vegas and looking for a new spot with fabulous food and unbelievable charm? Check it out for yourself - </div>
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<a href="http://lacomidalv.com/"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">LA COMIDA</span></b></a></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-64685189571297512892016-05-27T21:37:00.001-07:002016-05-27T21:44:42.756-07:00LEFTOVER LOVE FROM THE "LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL FESTIVAL"...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keMGoDRuWmk/V0kUUdmxqhI/AAAAAAAAIKc/H2QoeaVb2sYPWC7nv5RqeL5PrCZtLTJPgCKgB/s1600/Love1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keMGoDRuWmk/V0kUUdmxqhI/AAAAAAAAIKc/H2QoeaVb2sYPWC7nv5RqeL5PrCZtLTJPgCKgB/s400/Love1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The fourth annual Life is Beautiful Festival (THE three day MUSIC, culinary, arts, and learning experience extraordinaire - a modern day Woodstock meets Electric Daisy Carnival, of sorts) will be held in downtown Las Vegas. in September. As part of the revitalization of this area (and certainly as part of this enormous festival), international artists have been brought in the past three years, to install and paint amazing artworks. Left in place after the yearly festival is done, they have most certainly added amazing ambiance to the area. I'll try to be short on words in this post - enjoy the murals.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f-s3knCzxRc/V0kVwy7WUpI/AAAAAAAAIKs/SG05XVxjipYgrEec1wBG9sK7kinSJJ_pgCKgB/s1600/Mural1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f-s3knCzxRc/V0kVwy7WUpI/AAAAAAAAIKs/SG05XVxjipYgrEec1wBG9sK7kinSJJ_pgCKgB/s400/Mural1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
ENTIRELY air-bushed (or at least as close as two art teacher friends and I could determine).<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ks_AMFg5ntU/V0kVwvydaPI/AAAAAAAAIKs/D6C45eJhOVwJAvOkoHh1AtpUYtoyXG_dgCKgB/s1600/Mural2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ks_AMFg5ntU/V0kVwvydaPI/AAAAAAAAIKs/D6C45eJhOVwJAvOkoHh1AtpUYtoyXG_dgCKgB/s400/Mural2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71rYAw5IIkE/V0kVxZsZRTI/AAAAAAAAIKs/81Rl73kuFncd8qNW4oDdyJN2ga2MNwfZwCKgB/s1600/Mural3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71rYAw5IIkE/V0kVxZsZRTI/AAAAAAAAIKs/81Rl73kuFncd8qNW4oDdyJN2ga2MNwfZwCKgB/s640/Mural3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8IBlBr5YAZE/V0kUUEnaOTI/AAAAAAAAIKU/heNJ9E89MOkbzbnV7OEdAdnHOrUOUSDeQCKgB/s1600/LaComidaWall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8IBlBr5YAZE/V0kUUEnaOTI/AAAAAAAAIKU/heNJ9E89MOkbzbnV7OEdAdnHOrUOUSDeQCKgB/s400/LaComidaWall.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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"Same"...</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X07nxDbXTv0/V0kUS5iCI8I/AAAAAAAAIKU/U6TP6ozfE5UvnFjXk2aFRWwsOuRNmFIxwCKgB/s1600/AlleyGirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X07nxDbXTv0/V0kUS5iCI8I/AAAAAAAAIKU/U6TP6ozfE5UvnFjXk2aFRWwsOuRNmFIxwCKgB/s400/AlleyGirls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I do have to interject here. This is in an alley next to the restaurant we ate at. We walked as far as we could until we ran into transients sleeping, and decided it was a good turning around point. Plus, we couldn't be sure if the shoes over the power lines were a real indicator of shady drug dealings, or just another "art installation" to go along with all of this (which would be my guess, with the great eating and drinking establishments around it), but we turned around anyway. This fenced off area is the back of a local bar. The paintings were beautiful - again, all airbrushed.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-7VW81inus/V0kUSyHOzlI/AAAAAAAAIKU/UDsBah-1r94HJIe0LzafAZk3VRzI3qa1gCKgB/s1600/AlleyGirls2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_-7VW81inus/V0kUSyHOzlI/AAAAAAAAIKU/UDsBah-1r94HJIe0LzafAZk3VRzI3qa1gCKgB/s400/AlleyGirls2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And less than six months later, the paranoid blonde has been replaced with Sherlock and a Unicorn! The bums and shoes were still there, however.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Po9IbqfeeZ8/V0kUTZV6GyI/AAAAAAAAIKU/wg6FAuRCEzUi9qmRiCo_m0EkbaBAkutGwCKgB/s1600/CollageWall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Po9IbqfeeZ8/V0kUTZV6GyI/AAAAAAAAIKU/wg6FAuRCEzUi9qmRiCo_m0EkbaBAkutGwCKgB/s400/CollageWall.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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"Interactive" graffiti'd wall, past the alleyway...</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9hiXaaPH0Q/V0kUTQB-jYI/AAAAAAAAIKU/jHdXdI1zgNAQBFVAnKqqS111iht1gYBqACKgB/s1600/CollageWall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9hiXaaPH0Q/V0kUTQB-jYI/AAAAAAAAIKU/jHdXdI1zgNAQBFVAnKqqS111iht1gYBqACKgB/s400/CollageWall2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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That has morphed, itself, in the past months!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-79bHieNsYLE/V0kUTBpdFrI/AAAAAAAAIKU/CKDx0I45nLYTbehFDffLS_p-VfwQKh9pQCKgB/s1600/BirdRocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-79bHieNsYLE/V0kUTBpdFrI/AAAAAAAAIKU/CKDx0I45nLYTbehFDffLS_p-VfwQKh9pQCKgB/s400/BirdRocket.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Further down the same street - I love this enormous "bird". The rocket ship mosaic was set into the wall, and no bigger than my hand.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V_4kD0SPdX4/V0kUTyIb-tI/AAAAAAAAIKU/JYCoXiEG1M8D3-LMUXpo84GnVqHDV4R9gCKgB/s1600/DSCN7953%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V_4kD0SPdX4/V0kUTyIb-tI/AAAAAAAAIKU/JYCoXiEG1M8D3-LMUXpo84GnVqHDV4R9gCKgB/s400/DSCN7953%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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How koi! I think it's a gold fish, actually.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZACPWRlmerc/V0kUUrwo_bI/AAAAAAAAIKc/CJOp9Wh6n5suuDe5uPtiIckEnBOg_ZFzQCKgB/s1600/OrangeLady2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZACPWRlmerc/V0kUUrwo_bI/AAAAAAAAIKc/CJOp9Wh6n5suuDe5uPtiIckEnBOg_ZFzQCKgB/s400/OrangeLady2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-01c_VNrQgNQ/V0kUVLroqiI/AAAAAAAAIKc/tVPJdM7CS7sXgigpesmHUqdTCnV6w-K-ACKgB/s1600/TwoWalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-01c_VNrQgNQ/V0kUVLroqiI/AAAAAAAAIKc/tVPJdM7CS7sXgigpesmHUqdTCnV6w-K-ACKgB/s400/TwoWalls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FADGrNGlY9M/V0kbFnxFSZI/AAAAAAAAIK4/Lx6DLE4o1tc5vLlGVLq7EjUwdDE2_QQfQCLcB/s1600/Robot2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FADGrNGlY9M/V0kbFnxFSZI/AAAAAAAAIK4/Lx6DLE4o1tc5vLlGVLq7EjUwdDE2_QQfQCLcB/s400/Robot2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m_8oyJLJ2gQ/V0kUUvIAD2I/AAAAAAAAIKc/-xce5iVP1zwE8u2yocvhnIpP3S3imQjmwCKgB/s1600/Paintings1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m_8oyJLJ2gQ/V0kUUvIAD2I/AAAAAAAAIKc/-xce5iVP1zwE8u2yocvhnIpP3S3imQjmwCKgB/s400/Paintings1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I believe this is the abandoned Vegas casino/motel that is turned into an "art gallery" of sorts, during the festival.</div>
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Another of my favorites - this sits across the street from the Praying Mantis - Meerkats, on a BUS, made entirely from cast off junk (shaded by a lone palm tree casting that weird shadow).</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzR15W8TxTo/V0kUT_OCDJI/AAAAAAAAIKU/pHEb69pXh0MdKYRQ0xtrUzNakAhHRg5YACKgB/s1600/DSCN7890%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BzR15W8TxTo/V0kUT_OCDJI/AAAAAAAAIKU/pHEb69pXh0MdKYRQ0xtrUzNakAhHRg5YACKgB/s400/DSCN7890%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And next to what looks to be the "Last Chance" for those "kats" to beat it out of town, at this bus stop!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P9SNch8hPsc/V0kUVIIyiDI/AAAAAAAAIKc/kjqmmGdTttobRyTqIhVfBgDVn7FLgEKiACKgB/s1600/StreetSigns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P9SNch8hPsc/V0kUVIIyiDI/AAAAAAAAIKc/kjqmmGdTttobRyTqIhVfBgDVn7FLgEKiACKgB/s400/StreetSigns.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sign, sign, everywhere a sign...that's my own camera lens in the center of a tiny mirror attached to a street light.</div>
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Thankful for anything that helps to clean up a desperately run-down area, this is most certainly the new hot spot in Vegas. There are many, MANY more murals than these as you drive around this area - all you have to do is look. I'm sure many of these will be covered (if the alley is any indication) for this year's festival - excited to see what September brings, anew! Tomorrow: a great restaurant tip while you're there, looking...</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-84931331719320384362016-05-26T08:40:00.003-07:002016-05-26T08:49:31.418-07:00SHOPPING, SPIRITS, AND BOWTIE LESSONS AT THE DOWNTOWN CONTAINER PARK...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9soaFlvGzA/V0cP4s57cqI/AAAAAAAAIIo/IhJYYPq-vBkX29kg-EpvNwBA3vOpuKvbgCLcB/s1600/DSCN7921%2B%25281023x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9soaFlvGzA/V0cP4s57cqI/AAAAAAAAIIo/IhJYYPq-vBkX29kg-EpvNwBA3vOpuKvbgCLcB/s400/DSCN7921%2B%25281023x1024%2529.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
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Sitting behind the giant praying mantis from yesterday's post, you're gonna' find one of the most eclectic and fun shopping spots in "new" downtown Las Vegas - 39 unique, one-of-a-kind boutique shops and galleries, along with restaurants, bars, an interactive playground, and a stage area for evening entertainment...ALL HOUSED IN REPURPOSED SHIPPING CONTAINERS!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RZAeCJ2rBSQ/V0cP4FYlBSI/AAAAAAAAIIU/nfavhd629sMs3j2u8lxsrAiZSq_3y4_-QCKgB/s1600/ContainerPk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RZAeCJ2rBSQ/V0cP4FYlBSI/AAAAAAAAIIU/nfavhd629sMs3j2u8lxsrAiZSq_3y4_-QCKgB/s400/ContainerPk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tiny shops - just the <b><i>perfect</i></b> size, really - in this cleverly designed, triple-decker complex. Shopping (with pretty great prices, actually) and eating around the perimeter, playtime fun in the center.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wYMRRxM1dWg/V0cP4KuiazI/AAAAAAAAIJI/6Sd0H1QetXIeKQdZzngWNP5oYzNa1DH2gCKgB/s1600/ContainerPk2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wYMRRxM1dWg/V0cP4KuiazI/AAAAAAAAIJI/6Sd0H1QetXIeKQdZzngWNP5oYzNa1DH2gCKgB/s400/ContainerPk2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Retail hours are from 11:00 am to 9:00pm most days, with the restaurant and bar hours extending to 11:00 pm and 1:00 am, weekends - <b>21 and older after 9:00 pm</b>. - for more info, click here:</div>
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<b><a href="http://downtowncontainerpark.com/">DOWNTOWNCONTAINERPARK.COM</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mk_AbVD07VQ/V0cP5JpQlEI/AAAAAAAAIJI/BuWciCDmOukESAbWXnZAZh4SRtL6d1mygCKgB/s1600/DSCN7934%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mk_AbVD07VQ/V0cP5JpQlEI/AAAAAAAAIJI/BuWciCDmOukESAbWXnZAZh4SRtL6d1mygCKgB/s400/DSCN7934%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The signage on the establishments housed here brought a smile on the days we visited - ranging from beautiful retro neon...</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mbma7jruHyw/V0cP4RxUnuI/AAAAAAAAIJI/EZu7f8n1Vx07bgmI6GUYqmwU_u5DuHAaQCKgB/s1600/DSCN7920%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mbma7jruHyw/V0cP4RxUnuI/AAAAAAAAIJI/EZu7f8n1Vx07bgmI6GUYqmwU_u5DuHAaQCKgB/s400/DSCN7920%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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to bright and melodic...</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bY-yJXrq7Dc/V0cP4Fz944I/AAAAAAAAIJI/zqfGkm6Mf68mKwNazGQ1c2zKRS9t8e40QCKgB/s1600/DSCN6855%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bY-yJXrq7Dc/V0cP4Fz944I/AAAAAAAAIJI/zqfGkm6Mf68mKwNazGQ1c2zKRS9t8e40QCKgB/s400/DSCN6855%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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and straightforward!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQI2kIssugc/V0cP4rR_ExI/AAAAAAAAIJI/HZun6X_8kyoXWYh48xxv_h4Myd5LPvNmgCKgB/s1600/DSCN7924%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQI2kIssugc/V0cP4rR_ExI/AAAAAAAAIJI/HZun6X_8kyoXWYh48xxv_h4Myd5LPvNmgCKgB/s400/DSCN7924%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Made ya' use your noggin...</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-Fk-y5whyI/V0cP5IV5OJI/AAAAAAAAIJI/UL0buxKCrDcLHHv258Bl-DsWJc4PPC6iQCKgB/s1600/DSCN7931%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-Fk-y5whyI/V0cP5IV5OJI/AAAAAAAAIJI/UL0buxKCrDcLHHv258Bl-DsWJc4PPC6iQCKgB/s400/DSCN7931%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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and some humorous double entendres!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AIklGx_SeZE/V0cP5dvIVXI/AAAAAAAAIJI/iU89JTu96aE-G__JeqGwKtDkoVvneOiaQCKgB/s1600/JoJoJerky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AIklGx_SeZE/V0cP5dvIVXI/AAAAAAAAIJI/iU89JTu96aE-G__JeqGwKtDkoVvneOiaQCKgB/s400/JoJoJerky.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Best laughs of the day, clever beef jerky shop owners!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGMIXkeIqVs/V0cP5Y6mJBI/AAAAAAAAIJI/4deA7IRYA-Mwv-f8lJ8RTcqHp1MJd0sQQCKgB/s1600/Stop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGMIXkeIqVs/V0cP5Y6mJBI/AAAAAAAAIJI/4deA7IRYA-Mwv-f8lJ8RTcqHp1MJd0sQQCKgB/s400/Stop.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They've got SCADS of creative fun with a little weirdness here (socks, candy from your past, AND "hipster" vibes, all in one spot) - have an hour or two? GO!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--3HargUBiLM/V0cP4yZ9FAI/AAAAAAAAIJI/u6UsujdDv4Q1BTxPorpPtG-9jvzBnlQ6ACKgB/s1600/DSCN7928%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--3HargUBiLM/V0cP4yZ9FAI/AAAAAAAAIJI/u6UsujdDv4Q1BTxPorpPtG-9jvzBnlQ6ACKgB/s400/DSCN7928%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We stopped for no llamas that day, but across the street is THIS...</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgqJJjBO1bI/V0cP5HaTU0I/AAAAAAAAIJI/3uc0aeh3-Eo4lCAKOYlcIO4XILStw8FoQCKgB/s1600/DSCN7935%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xgqJJjBO1bI/V0cP5HaTU0I/AAAAAAAAIJI/3uc0aeh3-Eo4lCAKOYlcIO4XILStw8FoQCKgB/s400/DSCN7935%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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BEST doggie day care center I think I've ever seen!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--tkH2rgC9I4/V0cP5VzvWsI/AAAAAAAAIJI/dHCLUe47NEouSgZZ0qIy3ihO0rnUe0BuwCKgB/s1600/HydrantClub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--tkH2rgC9I4/V0cP5VzvWsI/AAAAAAAAIJI/dHCLUe47NEouSgZZ0qIy3ihO0rnUe0BuwCKgB/s400/HydrantClub.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A play park for your canine children that puts the one for <i>human</i> children, inside the Container Park, to shame - both in size (a HUGE, beautiful, grass park) and it's furry occupants! These pooches were having the absolute time of their lives, while their people worked.</div>
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Yup - the downtown area is the up and coming hotspot of Vegas...tomorrow (I can't believe I've stayed on top of this!) we're going walkabout among the street artworks there - stay tuned.</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-62723005783064864412016-05-25T08:22:00.000-07:002016-05-25T18:11:21.334-07:00INVASION OF THE 40 FOOT MANTIS...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPg_BREkt18/V0W4hAB7DtI/AAAAAAAAIH0/4kcz4mLLTHEns5DI3-4L_d4x2Y72xJBbwCLcB/s1600/Bug3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hPg_BREkt18/V0W4hAB7DtI/AAAAAAAAIH0/4kcz4mLLTHEns5DI3-4L_d4x2Y72xJBbwCLcB/s400/Bug3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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THIS! THIS is what sets behind that Love Locket from yesterday, guarding the entrance to the Downtown Container Park on Fremont Street East, in Las Vegas. Quite possibly my most favorite thing in town at the moment. A 150:1 scale exact replica of a female praying mantis by aerospace engineer turned artist, Kirk Jellum.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-91QLN0LaOOM/V0W4hW7t75I/AAAAAAAAIII/l4jKVEVRFwUrky5mwIEbxw7r5xbco_wcACKgB/s1600/Bug4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-91QLN0LaOOM/V0W4hW7t75I/AAAAAAAAIII/l4jKVEVRFwUrky5mwIEbxw7r5xbco_wcACKgB/s400/Bug4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Photos were taken on three separate occasions over the past 9 months, give or take (the gloomy skies on the first visit made for a great "impending doom" backdrop). I have always wanted to drive the Weinermobile, but I would KILL to drive THIS! Set atop a military looking Humvee (one of the old, BIG ones), this thing actually drives - considered a "Street-Legal Kinetic Mobile Fire-Art Vehicle" - yes, it's been to the Burning Man Festival!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSZ0wTdYliE/V0W4g3v3LjI/AAAAAAAAIII/tzz2QMo7LM0Jodmh0TrOaH0PHjdZjV3XwCKgB/s1600/Bug1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSZ0wTdYliE/V0W4g3v3LjI/AAAAAAAAIII/tzz2QMo7LM0Jodmh0TrOaH0PHjdZjV3XwCKgB/s400/Bug1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This was constructed by Jellum as a first wedding anniversary gift for his wife - my husband is SO lame!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-j_lNT5qHo/V0W4g_xtAAI/AAAAAAAAIII/Efzf_pgBJPESHVzEV2FcEUheIy5NkmidwCKgB/s1600/BigBug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-j_lNT5qHo/V0W4g_xtAAI/AAAAAAAAIII/Efzf_pgBJPESHVzEV2FcEUheIy5NkmidwCKgB/s400/BigBug.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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When fully extended, the Mantis measures 40' tall X 30' wide.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qGCEnjQmtW4/V0W4kb9WZUI/AAAAAAAAIII/p7KSrdUl_pIUYXAhrzCyS-TctHtDOi3SQCKgB/s1600/DSCN7290%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qGCEnjQmtW4/V0W4kb9WZUI/AAAAAAAAIII/p7KSrdUl_pIUYXAhrzCyS-TctHtDOi3SQCKgB/s400/DSCN7290%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Every night, at sundown (weather permitting), the Mantis is awakened by a "Call to the Mantis" Drum Circle Celebration (so, see - you don't even have to go as far as the desert of Burning Man to enjoy some of the "special uniqueness" of <b><i>that</i></b> whole event).</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2h5eQj0_Smo/V0W4ka-8FFI/AAAAAAAAIII/WDK2g0du2SgkP2gLuOHKT6qrkrBS8HPfACKgB/s1600/BugNight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2h5eQj0_Smo/V0W4ka-8FFI/AAAAAAAAIII/WDK2g0du2SgkP2gLuOHKT6qrkrBS8HPfACKgB/s400/BugNight.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This gal burns approximately 50 gallons of liquid propane each night, with flaming antennae and color changing eyes. In other words, she's LIT (as may be some of the drum circle participants). Who needs Colorado or Oregon? Mind-blowing without the edibles, and a lot cheaper, too - like FREE, man! Plus, no paranoia or munchies afterwards. Win-win!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3mQlHg_Z-s/V0W4kc6cb9I/AAAAAAAAIII/e-Ik_QnBzeIRqkACU13w9ttrSxVKk2HGwCKgB/s1600/Bug7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3mQlHg_Z-s/V0W4kc6cb9I/AAAAAAAAIII/e-Ik_QnBzeIRqkACU13w9ttrSxVKk2HGwCKgB/s400/Bug7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Jellum and a team of 20 built the Mantis in 2010 - 500 hours of design work, and over 3,000 hours of labor are invested in this creature. She also has a built-in 4,000 watt surround sound system, can speak 20 different languages (I just gathered info off the sign in front - don't ask me how a bug speaks 20 different languages), and takes a team of four trained/licensed professionals to operate (I can only assume they all have special "Kinetic Mobile Fire-Art Vehicle Operators Licenses"...my driver's license is SO lame!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YERkPPUTkQQ/V0W4g0IuOmI/AAAAAAAAIII/LVbnRee_y_AlpXWGrAR092liDvQInBVegCKgB/s1600/Bug2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YERkPPUTkQQ/V0W4g0IuOmI/AAAAAAAAIII/LVbnRee_y_AlpXWGrAR092liDvQInBVegCKgB/s400/Bug2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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See for yourself - she sets <i><b>behind</b></i> the Love Locket, <b><i>in front of</i></b> the Downtown Container Park (more about that tomorrow), and <b><i>next to</i></b> the Vortex Dome on the corner of Fremont and Seventh Streets (or 707 Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas, to be exact). I love her!</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-37251088883923037862016-05-24T09:54:00.002-07:002016-05-24T09:57:23.244-07:00A LOCK ON LOVE - FREMONT STREET EAST on "TRAVEL TUESDAY"...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YKEipKzF0Nw/V0R8swKAYVI/AAAAAAAAIHI/am4B50ZM980B9LaoGT7X9N3Q854JIaL6QCLcB/s1600/DSCN7877%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YKEipKzF0Nw/V0R8swKAYVI/AAAAAAAAIHI/am4B50ZM980B9LaoGT7X9N3Q854JIaL6QCLcB/s400/DSCN7877%2B%25281024x1024%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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While the weather is still enjoyable in Las Vegas, I thought I'd share a whole week (that's right, an entire WEEK of posts - all photos were taken on two separate "walkabouts" with friends - one overcast day, one sunny and mild) of THE newly renovated "hot spot" in town, and some of the fun things it has to offer for those who might think that Vegas is strictly casinos (or for those of you who live here, and are usually holed up inside due to oppressive temps).</div>
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Fremont Street East <b><i>used</i></b> to be the "wrong side of the tracks" - you NEVER went further than the main area of the noisy downtown casinos...those were "seedy" enough, but you NEVER ventured past them. All that has changed over the last five years or so. More about the entire area this week, but today we're just feelin' the love.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--RyKpiooU8s/V0R8tF-8LFI/AAAAAAAAIHc/P7R5kl-w01859Jrj73wQ-lVcS4GaWHPfgCKgB/s1600/DSCN7876%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--RyKpiooU8s/V0R8tF-8LFI/AAAAAAAAIHc/P7R5kl-w01859Jrj73wQ-lVcS4GaWHPfgCKgB/s400/DSCN7876%2B%2528768x1024%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Sitting on the corner of Fremont and Seventh, in front of the Downtown Container Park, is the "Love Locket". Erected by artist Nova May, in 2013, as part of the Life is Beautiful Festival art installations - a bare metal piece that has gathered lock upon lock/remembrance upon remembrance over the few years it's been in existence - filling both sides entirely.</div>
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January of this year found the sculpture vandalized, with one entire side being removed one night. Down but not out, the side was replaced and a fundraiser to fill the new side was held in February, with proceeds from one hundred $10.00 locks sold, being donated to the American Heart Association.</div>
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Got a lock and a sentimental/personal reason of your own? <i><b>This is your place!</b></i> Try not to wait too long, because hanging metal locks on a metal sculpture, covered with MORE metal, in the middle of 120 degree heat can be quite tricky - do it now, while the weather is pleasant.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aRfrCXRNY8/V0R8zAkaInI/AAAAAAAAIHc/nwlm2wMRkxA-1KyTIy5qmAVGCHxkx5-cgCKgB/s1600/Heart%2BLocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aRfrCXRNY8/V0R8zAkaInI/AAAAAAAAIHc/nwlm2wMRkxA-1KyTIy5qmAVGCHxkx5-cgCKgB/s400/Heart%2BLocks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And there's SO much more to this area to love and explore. Back tomorrow with what sets BEHIND this lock - might just be my favorite thing in Vegas, at the moment! Happy Tuesday.</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-88875788478805723782016-05-22T08:41:00.000-07:002016-05-25T08:22:42.257-07:00A CAMEO CLOSEUP...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just a few photos of my Mother's Day 2016 gift to my own Mom...taken and forgotten until this morning, as I was looking for something inspiring to write about. At the very least, may this spark someone's creative juices, with the idea of turning old into new, again. Mom and I always look at the beautiful old cameos while antique shopping - this was the perfect opportunity to throw three into one gift for her! Click, and click again, to enlarge any photo here...</div>
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Bead embroidery around old, broken down" cameos, and intact antique buttons - all turned into a piece of arm candy. No rhyme or reason - just lots of beads and time...a tiny bit of a beginning vision, but more or less, just "wild abandon" in putting it all together (hence King Neptune amongst all the ladies).</div>
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I have friends who actually save "junk" pieces for me, knowing I will use them eventually - thus, the old Angel Skin Pink Coral carved cameo, in a setting of 10K gold. Twas' a ladies ring in its former life - the shank had been twisted off at some point, leaving just the front. Check out the little white beads around the setting - those are actually the <span style="font-size: xx-small;">tiniest </span>white pearls I have ever seen - drilled through, and mounted onto this fabulous setting with gold wire.</div>
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The small Carnelian Shell cameo on the opposite side began life as a screw-back earring, while the large, heavy cameo in the center was a brooch at one time...she is called a Bacchante (<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.2px;"><b style="color: purple;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: purple;">noun (pl) bacchantes (bəˈkæntɪz) 1. a priestess or female votary of Bacchus. 2. a drunken female reveller</span></span></i></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: purple;"><i><b>)</b></i></span>.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span></span><br />
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The cameos carved to represent Greek and Roman Gods and Goddesses are fascinating, and information on the Internet is plentiful. Drunken female reveller is code for "party girl", evidently.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljmsrAEwda4/V0HEjhYZMCI/AAAAAAAAIG8/vl1I1wIok5g0TioOAGepmnKxk2GgHOXAwCKgB/s1600/MomsCameos6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljmsrAEwda4/V0HEjhYZMCI/AAAAAAAAIG8/vl1I1wIok5g0TioOAGepmnKxk2GgHOXAwCKgB/s400/MomsCameos6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sewn to a sturdy foundation, one bead at a time (I realize in looking at these photos, that the center cameo beads look a little wonky, and then remember that I included a small beaded ruffle over the top of her...drunken female reveller, that she is) - backed with ultrasuede, sewn in place (I'm not big on glue) with one-at-a-time edging beads. All buttons, including the large rhinestones, are antique. Thrown into the mix are Fire-polish glass Czech beads; seed and regular pearls; pyrite beads; and lots and lots of seed beads, in a riot of sizes and color. Finished off with a simple, old fashioned type hook and eye fastener.</div>
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May your Sunday bring some creative time...and a nap. Sunday naps are the BEST! See you on Travel Tuesday...</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-7442268082594535472016-05-19T07:24:00.001-07:002016-05-19T07:24:09.320-07:00HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE MOST REMARKABLE MAN I KNOW...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Another year older; another year INFINITELY wiser; another year of loving this wonderful Dad O' Mine! A plethora of information, and just a regular fun guy to be around...he shares my passion for candy cigarettes, "on the road", and he make friends easily...</div>
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And I just realized that could be because he's always waiting on US. A LOT! He's patient as all get out.</div>
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This was the time recently that I almost got a new Mom, right in the middle of Santa Fe...she even recited poetry to him before he told her, "Forsooth, I am married - yea, verily!" And married, he is - <b>60 years, next month.</b> He's a keeper to more than just me, evidently! So many women, so little time...</div>
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Waiting under his Swedish flag...waiting on someone else's front porch...waited so long on me taking photos, he decided to walk back home!</div>
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Happy Birthday, Dad - I hope today is the BEST, and you're not kept waiting - for ANYTHING! We're gonna' work on that - honest. I'll be back in July...just a short wait from now. XOXO</div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">I LOVE YOU MORE! </span></b></i></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-39553907699018353482016-05-07T19:35:00.001-07:002016-05-07T19:35:19.864-07:00HAPPY MOTHERS DAY, MOM!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKpcJIAdC2Y/Vy6kCSgi-gI/AAAAAAAAIFw/2CBBxTYYROc7-dk9YrxF1SsJ1ALwzN6BwCLcB/s1600/Mom1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HKpcJIAdC2Y/Vy6kCSgi-gI/AAAAAAAAIFw/2CBBxTYYROc7-dk9YrxF1SsJ1ALwzN6BwCLcB/s400/Mom1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i><b> May you NEVER lose that sense of humor or playfulness that allows me to set you on</b></i></div>
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<i><b>ducks </b></i><i><b>for portraits...and you pull it off with style!</b></i></div>
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<i><b> I don't know who was tougher on you to raise - us kids...</b></i></div>
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<b><i>or Dad. Either way, you've done a hell of a job, and I learned from THE BEST!</i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">LOVE YOU MORE!</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">HAPPY MOTHERS DAY - XOXO</span></i></b></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-27916881017217503692016-05-03T17:57:00.001-07:002016-05-07T09:03:39.133-07:00 A TREASURE FROM THE OLD WEST - SANTO DOMINGO PUEBLO on "Travel Tuesday"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBF_W1TN4qI/Vyk0Nfdh8pI/AAAAAAAAIEs/KTxaO4UzQiwGlnHYNH3T3qhK7UmSIjHhQCLcB/s1600/SD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XBF_W1TN4qI/Vyk0Nfdh8pI/AAAAAAAAIEs/KTxaO4UzQiwGlnHYNH3T3qhK7UmSIjHhQCLcB/s400/SD.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Neck, arm AND eye candy, all in one shot. The large white necklace, and where it came from, is what this post is actually about, but the magazine shot doesn't hurt (and was done with my Mom in mind). Hell on Wheels starts back up for a final season on June 11th - if you haven't been watching it all along, you need to look up the back seasons on Netflix, because you don't know what you've been missing! Anyway, back to the neck candy - it came this week in my mail, and it's spectacular!</div>
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I talked a little in the last post about knowing who you are buying Native American jewelry (or other artworks) from, and someone commented about online buying being a bad idea. I agree - buying valuable jewelry online would probably be the last thing I EVER suggest unless you really know what it is you're after. My dad, who has collected Indian art and antiquities for 50+ years, peruses eBay and the online sites in his spare time, and has commented to me about an increase in newer pieces being made to look old in this market, as well. Reproduction pieces seem to be the norm, anymore, and you have to beware with just about everything.</div>
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However, if you REALLY pay attention to detail, check a seller's feedback, and <b>KNOW</b> what you're looking at (<b>research WISELY</b>, in other words), there ARE honest dealers out there. You just have to use your head. Dad and I have both made fabulous eBay purchases...the best one I've made to date arrived this past week - a purchase made from someone selling off a small collection of personal items collected in the 60s in New Mexico. They were ALL the real deal.</div>
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The necklace above (and below) was in that collection - a beautiful Santo Domingo White Clamshell Heishi and Natural Turquoise necklace. It has, very obviously, been in a vault, on a peg for the past 50 years. I would be very surprised if it has seen more than one wearing - it is THAT pristine!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6XAc1G9XI48/Vyk0NRNCquI/AAAAAAAAIFI/wsLgXotH-IsD-RjSiQ-G0a9GXIt4qjoHQCKgB/s1600/SD1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6XAc1G9XI48/Vyk0NRNCquI/AAAAAAAAIFI/wsLgXotH-IsD-RjSiQ-G0a9GXIt4qjoHQCKgB/s400/SD1a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I DID know what I was looking at when I stumbled upon the auction, but not exactly how spectacular, or substantial, this purchase was until it arrived. This necklace was (and it HAS been verified to be authentic, already) crafted in the Santo Domingo Indian Pueblo in New Mexico (about 25 miles south of Santa Fe and 35 miles north of Albuquerque - or pretty much "smack-dab" in the middle) by one of their skilled artisans - the exact maker may never be known due to the age of the piece, but we have a pretty good idea from the way the jaclas at the bottom are attached.</div>
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There are ten strands of hand ground clamshell and natural turquoise heishi. The turquoise jaclas (jaclas were actually worn as earrings by the Indian women - when not being worn in the ears, they were usually tied onto the bottoms of their necklaces) are connected permanently with what is known as a "squaw wrap", which you typically see at the neck of a necklace. Each of the heishi beads measures approx. 3/8" wide by 1/8" tall - and, in true tradition, there are real, red coral beads at the tops of the jaclas.</div>
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The necklace measures a total of approximately 21.5" in length - 15.5" from the neck wrap to the bottom of the white shells, and another 6" for the turquoise jaclas. <b>This beauty weighs in at 275 gms., or approx. 10 ounces - the equivalent of a can of Campbell's Soup!</b></div>
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I was told the 86 year-old woman and her husband purchased this in the 1960s, directly from the Santo Domingo Pueblo. My Mom has beautiful pieces of jewelry from Santo Domingo as well, and I remember visiting it as a small child. While the woman said she could remember very little detail, in all actuality with the time frame, it is very likely that it was purchased out of this iconic trading post, on the reservation.</div>
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While the bright signage was intended to attract tourists and was common at roadside trading posts and curio shops during the early 20th century (black and white photo is circa 1954), the post also served as an important source of food stuffs and finished goods for neighboring tribal residents of the Santo Domingo Pueblo. President JFK was said to have visited the post in 1962 (see the small round sign on the post in the right hand side of the color photo - photo circa 1971).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ebXsyyWXmFE/Vyk0OE7_R5I/AAAAAAAAIFI/1dBiwwkJdW4-ymKTCd4Y2Bx_LKJUfwLogCKgB/s1600/SD3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ebXsyyWXmFE/Vyk0OE7_R5I/AAAAAAAAIFI/1dBiwwkJdW4-ymKTCd4Y2Bx_LKJUfwLogCKgB/s400/SD3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The post was constructed in 1922, adjacent to the railroad and a small highway that would later become a short-lived alignment of Route 66. This two-story building was constructed just north of an older trading post that dated to 1880, and was used as a warehouse by the owners of the new post.</div>
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The trading post was nearly destroyed by fire in 2001, and has undergone more than a million dollars worth of renovation. NPS grants through the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program have helped provide stabilization measures in 2007, and a 2013 grant helped to restore the historic facade painting. It is scheduled for a grand reopening this July 9th - click here for more info:</div>
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<a href="https://www.newmexico.org/event/?eid=32257"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>NEW MEXICO EVENTS</b></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdqtn0nAfAw/Vyk0OASYUJI/AAAAAAAAIFI/s-NkqUolrCAvOMEHCTdfUlIxmWh6twy8ACKgB/s1600/SD4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdqtn0nAfAw/Vyk0OASYUJI/AAAAAAAAIFI/s-NkqUolrCAvOMEHCTdfUlIxmWh6twy8ACKgB/s400/SD4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Also called Kewa Pueblo now, residents of the pueblo maintain their traditional religious practices and social structure to this day. The pueblo has a long history of producing, trading, and sell crafts, especially jewelry and pottery. You can visit the pueblo and still observe the traditional way of life there, even attending ceremonial events such as the corn dance, held every year on August 4th. As with any of the pueblos, there are rules to be followed before attending. For more information, check out: </div>
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<a href="https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/route66/pueblo_of_santo_domingo_kewa_pueblo.html"><b><span style="font-size: large;">PUEBLO of SANTO DOMINGO/NPS.GOV</span></b></a> or </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.santodomingotribe.com/">SANTO DOMINGO TRIBE</a></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K8KcjXEN6qI/Vyk0Oc-srzI/AAAAAAAAIFI/7CbYDg8U-twkAd6y5PiJCt1eIhyLnJ9QACKgB/s1600/SD5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K8KcjXEN6qI/Vyk0Oc-srzI/AAAAAAAAIFI/7CbYDg8U-twkAd6y5PiJCt1eIhyLnJ9QACKgB/s400/SD5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bottom (color) photo is part of the modern day Santo Domingo pueblo...notice the ceremonial Kiva in the middle of the photo. If you get a hankerin' to travel this summer, legendary Route 66 holds some pretty remarkable treasures throughout the American Southwest. And me, I'm tickled to death to have my hands on this remarkable treasure of my own. Plans are to keep it as pristine as it is now, but to love and WEAR it...gently. This was made to be seen - after 50 years of storage, it's time!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LovBcH8tt-c/Vyk0N9X0UPI/AAAAAAAAIFI/r5iybU05h-opbAy2xDo6t5aSrhZ85EfmwCKgB/s1600/SD24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LovBcH8tt-c/Vyk0N9X0UPI/AAAAAAAAIFI/r5iybU05h-opbAy2xDo6t5aSrhZ85EfmwCKgB/s400/SD24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And, I'll leave you with this...not all my SW jewelry is Native American made. As I stressed in the last post, collect what "calls" to you - collect what YOU like - collect what you LOVE.</div>
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If it's important to you WHO made it, do a little research (these were made by an Anglo artisan in NM, and I loved them the minute I set eyes on them, so they're mine now).</div>
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PLEASE be cognizant of knockoffs, those selling them, and who they might be affecting with their dishonesty, other than you and your purchase. <b>There are true and honest artisans out there who would LOVE to sell you something made from their heart, <u>without trying to pull the wool over your eyes!</u></b> Happy Tuesday...hope you do some travelin' this week - whether in a car or just wanderin' someplace wonderful in your mind! XOXOTanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-86919672550180674932016-04-30T14:23:00.002-07:002016-05-02T08:16:21.902-07:00HOW DO I KNOW IT'S AUTHENTIC?...American Indian Jewelry and a New Form of Highway Robbery in the Southwest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eVwkeRdpFLE/VyUG4Bp1QCI/AAAAAAAAIDs/Bfc4M26B27o54N5mEb6MygdlRjPMvAZ8QCKgB/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eVwkeRdpFLE/VyUG4Bp1QCI/AAAAAAAAIDs/Bfc4M26B27o54N5mEb6MygdlRjPMvAZ8QCKgB/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was asked this question by an interested friend last week and, having bought what has turned out to be a <b>substantial</b> piece this past week (sheerly by accident, and a post for two days from now), and knowing there is a problem that has been arising in the American Southwest for some years now, I thought I'd share a bit of what I know:</div>
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<b>First and foremost, collect what you LIKE!</b> <u>If you don't care, then it doesn't matter</u>. However, if you DO care what you're getting, then arm yourself with as much information as you can beforehand. <b>The tourist areas of the American Southwest have been experiencing an onslaught of shops owned by people of Middle Eastern descent POSING as Native American, and selling jewelry that they advertise as being Native American when, in actuality, it's knockoff jewelry designs being produced overseas...and certainly NOT by Native Americans! And it's not just jewelry - rugs, pottery - none of it seems to be off limits to this deceptive practice.</b></div>
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To persons/tourists unfamiliar with our American Indians (and that's NOT an offensive word) <u>by sight</u>, this presents a serious problem. You're NOT getting what you THINK you're paying for, in these shops, and it's undercutting the livelihoods of one of the most historically oppressed peoples in the United States.</div>
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The pieces above (and below) have all been collected by me personally, since the early seventies. I used to wear them daily back then, and quit when everyone else zeroed in on the craze (thanks, Sundance Catalog). I've begun slowly pulling them back out.</div>
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It wasn't really a problem <b>then</b>, knowing you were getting AUTHENTIC pieces. Some of mine are old pawn pieces (if money was needed, Indians pawned their jewelry to trading posts on the reservations - when it went "dead", it was sold by the posts. This practice continues to this day). One bracelet was ordered and purchased DIRECT from the artisan - standing in his house, atop the mesa that houses the Hopi Reservation. ALL others were purchased from either TRIBAL OWNED Cultural Centers/Trading Posts, or from REPUTABLE dealers. If you walk into a shop where the guy behind the counter is wearing a nice, crisp white shirt, suit slacks, (OK, dressed like a Gold and Silver Jewelry dealer) and is on a cell phone, chances are you are not in the right place!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UULxXfvu7nY/VyUG4zwleTI/AAAAAAAAID8/KndWrj6G2aEDEK8vLUAElPPFev6QnkcoQCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UULxXfvu7nY/VyUG4zwleTI/AAAAAAAAID8/KndWrj6G2aEDEK8vLUAElPPFev6QnkcoQCLcB/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Look for hallmarks - most of the Native American pieces have an identifiable hallmark stamped somewhere on the back of the piece. The silver overlay Kokopelli bracelet contains the hallmark of Bernard Dawahoya (upper right), while the larger sandcast bracelet with the turquoise center is stamped FJ on the reverse. The three-stone bracelet was a high school graduation gift from my parents.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VB5xmjBVDbI/VyUG5ODVmkI/AAAAAAAAIEA/x2Yjuf2B65QIM0HbganCPQtzLZwdh5WcwCLcB/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VB5xmjBVDbI/VyUG5ODVmkI/AAAAAAAAIEA/x2Yjuf2B65QIM0HbganCPQtzLZwdh5WcwCLcB/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Old pawn necklaces from the Santo Domingo tribe (known for their heishi and turquoise necklaces), but also loved by, and usually attributed to, the Navajos. These were usually strung on imitation Sinew (the real sinew was taken from buffalo gut - imitation is much more obtainable), or waxed cotton cords. The newer pieces of jewelry utilize silver closures and more contemporary methods. Doesn't mean they're not authentic, but know who you are buying from...when in doubt, ASK!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fH_x9KLnsgU/VyUG5P9_jVI/AAAAAAAAIEE/t5TvlvlmpCMteTqIRxEHQeHLpaGavf0wACLcB/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fH_x9KLnsgU/VyUG5P9_jVI/AAAAAAAAIEE/t5TvlvlmpCMteTqIRxEHQeHLpaGavf0wACLcB/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I started with the rings when I was young, travelling with a knowledgeable couple of parents. These were all reservation pawn shop purchases, and extremely affordable at the time.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHZTMQD-pcM/VyUG5fxydCI/AAAAAAAAIEI/cP1oqyJgBKg8lkxLGomP-QCYNCzR2RijgCLcB/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHZTMQD-pcM/VyUG5fxydCI/AAAAAAAAIEI/cP1oqyJgBKg8lkxLGomP-QCYNCzR2RijgCLcB/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Which brings me to how easily confused someone "new" to the game can become when looking to start collecting. The two OLD necklaces are on the left, laying next to a piece that <b>I, MYSELF</b>, am stringing - a work in progress. NEVER to be passed off as Native American - <span style="font-size: large;">EVER!</span> This is being made BY ME, FOR ME, and I will TELL people I made it. This, however, is NOT the same honesty you will find among shop owners posing as something they are not, and selling dishonestly. Caveat Emptor - buyer beware - when in doubt, ASK!</div>
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The unfinished, natural turquoise slab pieces were purchased at a bead store in Santa Fe three years ago, with no direction in mind at the time. The bronze piece that I have hung from the bottom is an actual bronze sculpture, by Robert Rogers, that has hung from a simple leather cord since I received it as a gift. It has always deserved better, and I decided it was time to combine the two elements, along with some beading wire. I would NEVER claim this to be anything but handmade BY ME. If we were all this honest, there wouldn't be a problem. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPRvBgwbw0A/VyUG5aIbqYI/AAAAAAAAIEM/DH35BTyMsWMwgzEzKjrOICibp52UARy1ACLcB/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPRvBgwbw0A/VyUG5aIbqYI/AAAAAAAAIEM/DH35BTyMsWMwgzEzKjrOICibp52UARy1ACLcB/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Know your turquoise, as well...and again, <u>if you don't care, it doesn't matter</u>. Collect what YOU like. Natural turquoise deposits in the United States have just about been completely depleted, as far as mining it goes. Long ago, it was discovered how to make turquoise "go a little further", by grinding it into dust and mixing it with epoxy. Stabilizing in turquoise is sometimes hard to spot, unless you really know. Then there's the Dyed Howlite. Again, find a reputable dealer and ASK!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyxmqw4HI-w/VyUG5U2g8SI/AAAAAAAAIEQ/UiRVVpsuFV43Xzds56qB4Q2aqI00jRYCACLcB/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lyxmqw4HI-w/VyUG5U2g8SI/AAAAAAAAIEQ/UiRVVpsuFV43Xzds56qB4Q2aqI00jRYCACLcB/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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American Indian made? Both ARE, believe it or not. Rising silver prices have turned many of the Navajo silversmiths to copper and brass in recent years.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uy1YALqHpiU/VyUG5vGOGiI/AAAAAAAAIEU/kAc62Owb4dArA5FCNQ3fVDvcyOfs92N7ACLcB/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uy1YALqHpiU/VyUG5vGOGiI/AAAAAAAAIEU/kAc62Owb4dArA5FCNQ3fVDvcyOfs92N7ACLcB/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Again, HALLMARKS...the one on the left was made by Emerson Bill, a Navajo. Which leads me back to my statement of them both being American Indian made...the one on the right was made by a Navajo silversmith, employed by a red-headed designer from Texas, by the name of Rocki Gorman. She's got a breathtaking shop in Santa Fe, with a willingness to let you know EXACTLY who made the pieces for her, that she has designed. This is stamped with HER hallmark, but Indian made nonetheless, utilizing many of the old stamps and designs from years past - these are both purchases made within the past 6 or 7 years.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Um1Dune2wbM/VyUG5sfmrAI/AAAAAAAAIEY/meRbM0lFSiAkxyYRYUI0CX9JcmdHKvsOACLcB/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Um1Dune2wbM/VyUG5sfmrAI/AAAAAAAAIEY/meRbM0lFSiAkxyYRYUI0CX9JcmdHKvsOACLcB/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The copper and brass pieces are an affordable way to enjoy some beautiful Native American pieces, for a fraction of the cost. They patina beautifully over time, too!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xXWHobbwt9k/VyUG4GE83EI/AAAAAAAAIDo/aL5rcPIsLh0I-EmltdcaXfngmn9a4zITACLcB/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xXWHobbwt9k/VyUG4GE83EI/AAAAAAAAIDo/aL5rcPIsLh0I-EmltdcaXfngmn9a4zITACLcB/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Soooooooo...how DO you know you're getting the "real deal"? There are a few ways. First, BUY DIRECT. Many of the Southwest towns known for their Native American "draw" have Indian Markets and/or selling areas. Santa Fe has the Palace of the Governors Native American Vendors Program. Old Town Albuquerque has the same type of set-up, but is now allowing NON-Native Americans to hawk their wares, among the Indians. The bottom photo is my Dad, on a recent trip to Acoma Pueblo, where he purchased the beautiful bowl directly from the woman who made it. BUY DIRECT - it's usually the best way of knowing what you are getting, and from whom. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8WEz_vqkwfU/VyUG34ZzqBI/AAAAAAAAIDk/r2Hj4bstqD4ODEmzwn1zwrpVT2Q0F2VfACLcB/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8WEz_vqkwfU/VyUG34ZzqBI/AAAAAAAAIDk/r2Hj4bstqD4ODEmzwn1zwrpVT2Q0F2VfACLcB/s400/11.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
Buy from stores that announce themselves, RIGHT UP FRONT, as being Indian...<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6oIAnYkVJfE/VyUG4hRfEyI/AAAAAAAAID0/QCfIEDmBqCcfiXAzypUBlEz4ej5G09l5gCLcB/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6oIAnYkVJfE/VyUG4hRfEyI/AAAAAAAAID0/QCfIEDmBqCcfiXAzypUBlEz4ej5G09l5gCLcB/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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or Native American owned (these shops are both in Old Town Albuquerque, with faux Indian shops to either side).</div>
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This sort of signage has come about more and more in recent years, partly from desperation at the dishonest vendors moving in and pulling a "fast one" on unsuspecting tourists. One non-Indian shop that passes itself AS being so (in old town Albuquerque) has even gone so far as to hire a Caucasian woman to "front" a shop filled with both American Indian, but <u>MORE</u> imported items claiming to be Indian made. The honest shops in a town DO know who the outsiders are, and will always steer you to the right spots. <b>Don't just assume that a shop advertising Native American jewelry is actually selling the REAL thing. When in doubt, ASK!</b><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PYsykQA4BvI/VyUG4tpfGJI/AAAAAAAAIDw/JYCtxF-jo8oxxhH6ivBtZkcyS_tsKCzuACLcB/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PYsykQA4BvI/VyUG4tpfGJI/AAAAAAAAIDw/JYCtxF-jo8oxxhH6ivBtZkcyS_tsKCzuACLcB/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Seek out reputable dealers...ones that have been in business for YEARS prior to the deceitful practices the SW is experiencing. Ones that still deal DIRECTLY, and honestly. with the Indians themselves. Richardson's in Gallup (the tiny towns of Gallup and Zuni, NM both have a HUGE problem with this, now) has been in business since 1913. Garland's in Sedona, Jackies in Taos, Hubbell's historic site in Ganado, NM...ALL reputable. And they can tell you who else is! An interesting article from 2003 for some further reading, click here... <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2003/07/18/us/gallup-journal-tension-over-who-prospers-in-an-indian-capital.html">TENSION OVER WHO PROSPERS IN AN INDIAN CAPITAL</a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPSC7eQY_Oo/VyUG4_4ulZI/AAAAAAAAIEc/deQqiSWV_icrVCEa9eiRYKXCcoJiNh43wCKgB/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPSC7eQY_Oo/VyUG4_4ulZI/AAAAAAAAIEc/deQqiSWV_icrVCEa9eiRYKXCcoJiNh43wCKgB/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Rainbow Man (pictured above), Native Jackets, Shalako, Keishi, and Shiprock Gallery in Santa Fe will ALL point you in the right direction, if they don't have what you want themselves. Just arm yourself if it matters to you WHO made what you're after. Again, collect what you LIKE, but when in doubt, ASK! I'm not an expert, by any means...I've just learned - by asking and <b>paying attention</b>. In a few days, I'll be back to show you a special piece I acquired this week...have a wonderful weekend.</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-75033217858949653672016-04-29T12:06:00.001-07:002016-04-29T12:06:19.990-07:00HAPPY FRIDAY...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j7mWIogjRpY/VyOv1htfqnI/AAAAAAAAIDU/-7qqIYgAeGw1vi95RMWdsav-NTRI0Dn2wCLcB/s1600/BlogCactus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j7mWIogjRpY/VyOv1htfqnI/AAAAAAAAIDU/-7qqIYgAeGw1vi95RMWdsav-NTRI0Dn2wCLcB/s400/BlogCactus.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I really am working on that jewelry post...new puppy in the house makes for lots of lost time! Hopefully by tomorrow, latest.</div>
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Wishing you butterflies and blue skies this weekend...or at the least, VERY little snow!</div>
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<i>XOXO</i></div>
<br />Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-87574796903523808922016-04-27T08:54:00.000-07:002016-04-28T12:33:32.764-07:00I REALLY DON'T KNOW CLOUDS AT ALL...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tU7llhfGmqQ/VyDbDNhnw8I/AAAAAAAAIDA/ATcwJ6XzBc80GTD2_1E3QIAWI-FxgNenQCLcB/s1600/CloudsCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tU7llhfGmqQ/VyDbDNhnw8I/AAAAAAAAIDA/ATcwJ6XzBc80GTD2_1E3QIAWI-FxgNenQCLcB/s400/CloudsCover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Rows and flows of angel hair...</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRq20R5BnlE/VyDbDJtDMLI/AAAAAAAAIC8/OjYX8fjFCBgYR-L6tEtqm5caMxMlUED1ACKgB/s1600/Clouds9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRq20R5BnlE/VyDbDJtDMLI/AAAAAAAAIC8/OjYX8fjFCBgYR-L6tEtqm5caMxMlUED1ACKgB/s400/Clouds9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">And ice cream castles in the air...</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WAGPaUI0MjQ/VyDbCbndtlI/AAAAAAAAIDE/59WDZjtOkm05cL8jYHxTY65dD2xaVhqOgCKgB/s1600/Clouds4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WAGPaUI0MjQ/VyDbCbndtlI/AAAAAAAAIDE/59WDZjtOkm05cL8jYHxTY65dD2xaVhqOgCKgB/s400/Clouds4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>And feather canyons everywhere...</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r5SnCxhHj4c/VyDbC_w3_HI/AAAAAAAAIC4/_sPcYiz-4eYE5CWXLFtrmhJxW3RhqS78ACKgB/s1600/Clouds6.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r5SnCxhHj4c/VyDbC_w3_HI/AAAAAAAAIC4/_sPcYiz-4eYE5CWXLFtrmhJxW3RhqS78ACKgB/s1600/Clouds6.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I've looked at clouds that way...</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-65yqotrjK48/VyDbC4NfLpI/AAAAAAAAIC0/Z8XJ6BvQPjUARV8n4MbGEzLNZVvNhIC1wCKgB/s1600/Clouds7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-65yqotrjK48/VyDbC4NfLpI/AAAAAAAAIC0/Z8XJ6BvQPjUARV8n4MbGEzLNZVvNhIC1wCKgB/s400/Clouds7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I really DON'T know clouds at all...otherwise, I'd be able to name this effect (pretty sure it's called the Cotton Ball Effect...or not) that hung over Vegas for a very short time when I got up this morning . Whatever the cloud type, I hope you see something equally as breathtaking in your part of the world today. Back tomorrow with a jewelry post - happy Wednesday!</div>
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<br />Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-68084713362597230992016-04-19T14:17:00.000-07:002016-04-19T14:27:36.594-07:00BECAUSE SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE, NEEDS THESE BRIGHT BLOOMS TODAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGN-cVZuZkY/VxaYKY8tTVI/AAAAAAAAIB8/3k1vJJ5yDycLbxvigKqk4FBGcBGqmHcvgCKgB/s1600/DSCN8718%2B%25281024x769%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGN-cVZuZkY/VxaYKY8tTVI/AAAAAAAAIB8/3k1vJJ5yDycLbxvigKqk4FBGcBGqmHcvgCKgB/s400/DSCN8718%2B%25281024x769%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If that someone is you, then these are yours...because I care!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HsVFC52SULE/Vxacq2e5yQI/AAAAAAAAICM/cUsWZKA7Wzk44k7qGSHkhGPNhJeqjDoqgCKgB/s1600/DSCN8716%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HsVFC52SULE/Vxacq2e5yQI/AAAAAAAAICM/cUsWZKA7Wzk44k7qGSHkhGPNhJeqjDoqgCKgB/s400/DSCN8716%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ethel M. Cactus Garden should be in "full-on" mode in the next week or so...I stole 10 minutes to walk through this afternoon, to brighten my own day with the blooms that were already out.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QAU-2YRHWE/VxacmP9ISII/AAAAAAAAICI/q8EmK90F69I7Gyn_TyB1vcKhTnBDJWN_wCKgB/s1600/DSCN8729%2B%2528771x1024%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9QAU-2YRHWE/VxacmP9ISII/AAAAAAAAICI/q8EmK90F69I7Gyn_TyB1vcKhTnBDJWN_wCKgB/s400/DSCN8729%2B%2528771x1024%2529.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The colors seem to have a "pecking order" in how they appear...the yellows and oranges are always first, followed by the pinks at the end of the bloom.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzjqgG6054k/VxaczcBIRPI/AAAAAAAAICU/rihfUCcukEI8tb8kxqosVTF4o2lATxldQCKgB/s1600/cactus_flower_1969_ws_r4-front-www.getcovers.net_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lzjqgG6054k/VxaczcBIRPI/AAAAAAAAICU/rihfUCcukEI8tb8kxqosVTF4o2lATxldQCKgB/s400/cactus_flower_1969_ws_r4-front-www.getcovers.net_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cactus flowers DO have Flower Power!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBUjOkfpwCU/VxachzVsI9I/AAAAAAAAICE/Dcnt92ZMkMkQ8JHSWC_5rxERloF_AEKNgCKgB/s1600/DSCN8721%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBUjOkfpwCU/VxachzVsI9I/AAAAAAAAICE/Dcnt92ZMkMkQ8JHSWC_5rxERloF_AEKNgCKgB/s400/DSCN8721%2B%25281024x768%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wherever you are - whatever you are doing this week, may it be bright and happy in your little part of the world!</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-83630424073233363232016-04-12T09:06:00.000-07:002016-04-12T15:38:20.254-07:00PINBALL HALL OF FAME - LAS VEGAS, NV on "TRAVEL TUESDAY"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O4yoHVWGtIs/Vw0PyuwISZI/AAAAAAAAH_w/nTtCBnovP3wZJnqML95TWTBKgOUUXJgXQCLcB/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O4yoHVWGtIs/Vw0PyuwISZI/AAAAAAAAH_w/nTtCBnovP3wZJnqML95TWTBKgOUUXJgXQCLcB/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I always talk about getting out, opening your eyes, and seeing what cool little secrets your town has to offer...somehow we missed this, and it's been open seven years. BEST kept secret in Las Vegas, evidently. The <b><a href="http://www.pinballmuseum.org/">PINBALL HALL OF FAME</a> </b>(click on the link there for the O-fficial website).<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-daS4oyltiRA/Vw0PzQov_5I/AAAAAAAAIAs/7zI6BDEvncMdJjRoBOFF6vdtP1FzxtoIQ/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-daS4oyltiRA/Vw0PzQov_5I/AAAAAAAAIAs/7zI6BDEvncMdJjRoBOFF6vdtP1FzxtoIQ/s400/1a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In addition to looking at flowers in the Bellagio the other day, we did THIS. We stopped to see what cool photos were waiting to be taken inside this non-descript building - that was all - we were going to photograph it. We resisted temptation for about ten minutes before we ended up cashing in paper money for coins...lots of coins. Spent over an hour inside - 10,000 square feet of fun - 152 different pinball machines (203 games in all, counting some arcade games). <b>You don't get that big a smile on your friend's face from just lookin' at flowers!</b></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3PHgr8hfalc/Vw0Pzq2bGeI/AAAAAAAAIAs/MM4gokaa8ywJRoxZk24oXk3iooFntqd5g/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3PHgr8hfalc/Vw0Pzq2bGeI/AAAAAAAAIAs/MM4gokaa8ywJRoxZk24oXk3iooFntqd5g/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The color on these has been "boosted" - not a whole lot...just enough to pop! The machines are vivid on their own (I just felt like color today). They range in age from the 1950's through the 90's, and are <b>ALL</b> playable - at the OLD prices of 25 cents for the older games, and 50 and 75 cents for the 90's versions. This is a non-profit corporation, so all proceeds are donated to non-denominational charities.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZIX5VuztaI/Vw0Pz1dVl5I/AAAAAAAAIAs/lKAeSwqiHiQwKsXiOlSuWsv519wAmWO-Q/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZIX5VuztaI/Vw0Pz1dVl5I/AAAAAAAAIAs/lKAeSwqiHiQwKsXiOlSuWsv519wAmWO-Q/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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All machines housed in this building are owned by one man, Tim Arnold, who has an arsenal of pinball collectors that help him restore and maintain these fabulous machines.</div>
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Creature from the Black Lagoon - he was so misunderstood!</div>
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We saved the Dunk N' Alien game for the very last thing we played that day. An arcade game that I'm guessing is probably unbeatable, save for a REALLY lucky shot. The alien was spitting out insults at us as fast as we could roll balls up and in, trying to hit that swinging red target - <b>LOTS of insults</b>. And we LIKED it - we were both laughing so hard it actually made playing the game difficult. Fifty cents for nasty insults - BEST laugh of the day!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJzp4SDbtcE/Vw0P0geHVBI/AAAAAAAAIAs/xbTYp1P11XkMJCujsEZFlUz_Mec7B5v6w/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJzp4SDbtcE/Vw0P0geHVBI/AAAAAAAAIAs/xbTYp1P11XkMJCujsEZFlUz_Mec7B5v6w/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two different Elvira games...I'm sure the Mistress of the Dark has one or two more in there, as well.</div>
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Look at THESE clowns!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFFcfu03oVQ/Vw0P1E2Y0dI/AAAAAAAAIAs/HgEl3q6Q0LQGjk7OnI0iF5JyzkbgCAYig/s1600/8a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFFcfu03oVQ/Vw0P1E2Y0dI/AAAAAAAAIAs/HgEl3q6Q0LQGjk7OnI0iF5JyzkbgCAYig/s400/8a.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Gene Simmon's disembodied head in the Kiss Army game.</div>
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Twilight Zone and outer space themed games.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_MzeBOAJ-i4/Vw0PyhJje-I/AAAAAAAAIAs/BAseCbsYZlsA0SzLjftiiUcwI9wLaBqJw/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_MzeBOAJ-i4/Vw0PyhJje-I/AAAAAAAAIAs/BAseCbsYZlsA0SzLjftiiUcwI9wLaBqJw/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Monster Rock, Jurassic Park, and Creature from the Black Lagoon.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-18bBrL_r8vI/Vw0Pyg-usGI/AAAAAAAAIAs/Mqw3b5LT6DEQ-w9vl9Fw1DN3NfLvgW0Rg/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-18bBrL_r8vI/Vw0Pyg-usGI/AAAAAAAAIAs/Mqw3b5LT6DEQ-w9vl9Fw1DN3NfLvgW0Rg/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Big Hurt (Frank Thomas), Captain Fantastic (Elton John), and EVEL KNIEVEL!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2QPtY2W1uik/Vw0P1ue_TXI/AAAAAAAAIAs/aXvvaQPS3tUAtrXYgZ_mZVar50eNkQd8g/s1600/CueBall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2QPtY2W1uik/Vw0P1ue_TXI/AAAAAAAAIAs/aXvvaQPS3tUAtrXYgZ_mZVar50eNkQd8g/s400/CueBall.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">"A far better return on fun than any Las Vegas casino environment, and the PHoF actually has </span><i style="background-color: white;">windows</i><span style="background-color: white;"> and a </span><i style="background-color: white;">clock</i><span style="background-color: white;"> in the room!"...<b><a href="http://www.pinballmuseum.org/">PINBALL HALL OF FAME</a></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9UY3fVxYp8/Vw0P18_hRtI/AAAAAAAAIA0/InDFKL58j2UfchCWAqzL5WjTjI9HVX-LQ/s1600/Oz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9UY3fVxYp8/Vw0P18_hRtI/AAAAAAAAIA0/InDFKL58j2UfchCWAqzL5WjTjI9HVX-LQ/s400/Oz.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The Wizard of Oz - this was a beautiful machine, though a little hard to play. We're just not the "Pinball Wizards" we used to be, evidently. Want to see this all for yourself? Click on the links provided. The doors are open from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 11:00 am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. NO ADMITTANCE FEE - just a desire for fun, and some quarters to play is all you need!</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt66jAsWzDk/Vw0aLk9I4NI/AAAAAAAAIA8/iPCy9pIy9p8vvtXKxZrgvM33U7NTxGiOACLcB/s1600/ZLast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt66jAsWzDk/Vw0aLk9I4NI/AAAAAAAAIA8/iPCy9pIy9p8vvtXKxZrgvM33U7NTxGiOACLcB/s400/ZLast.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">But it doesn't have to be! Get on over and make your own fun at the</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="http://www.pinballmuseum.org/"><span style="font-size: large;">PINBALL HALL OF FAME</span></a>,</b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">right here in <strike>River City</strike> Vegas!</span></div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-24565494560197703592016-04-09T10:14:00.000-07:002016-04-09T10:14:08.859-07:00HAPPY SPRING - CHERRY BLOSSOM TIME AT THE BELLAGIO CONSERVATORY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Now through May, in the Bellagio Hotel Conservatory here in Las Vegas. You canNOT believe the wonderful aroma in there! No further reading required - enjoy the scenery...</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Happy Spring - XOXO</i></span></div>
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<br />Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-2697228870177877452016-04-05T10:33:00.002-07:002016-04-05T13:16:29.597-07:00OH, GIVE ME A HOME...TED TURNER'S WOULD BE NICE...Travel Tuesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NN9SDiJoLA8/VwPkadv1P4I/AAAAAAAAH9s/_VkKszw8zIUlIcF0Wg1w_7oaeyyYQFwcA/s1600/2BuffaloRoam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NN9SDiJoLA8/VwPkadv1P4I/AAAAAAAAH9s/_VkKszw8zIUlIcF0Wg1w_7oaeyyYQFwcA/s400/2BuffaloRoam.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Where the buffalo roam...</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CrVZ1-z9zUw/VwPkaZa2vcI/AAAAAAAAH-M/dU2BM0o_e6UOMXPPz8p5T26ehibFUhbLQ/s1600/3Deer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CrVZ1-z9zUw/VwPkaZa2vcI/AAAAAAAAH-M/dU2BM0o_e6UOMXPPz8p5T26ehibFUhbLQ/s400/3Deer.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Where the deer...</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viA71mxQxuQ/VwPkah1pI_I/AAAAAAAAH-M/sfYqGXQsAFYx4PDUA5bY9oVdhcsfw3aUQ/s1600/4Antelope%2B%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-viA71mxQxuQ/VwPkah1pI_I/AAAAAAAAH-M/sfYqGXQsAFYx4PDUA5bY9oVdhcsfw3aUQ/s400/4Antelope%2B%2B.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">And the <strike>antelope</strike>...</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zzO5IolUrEU/VwPka8G44MI/AAAAAAAAH-M/OF0t4N2CQB0loRHr3PeIU7BCGxW_qiZsA/s1600/5pronghorn1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zzO5IolUrEU/VwPka8G44MI/AAAAAAAAH-M/OF0t4N2CQB0loRHr3PeIU7BCGxW_qiZsA/s400/5pronghorn1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; font-style: italic;">And the antelope play (they both have neck stripes - I may have gotten confused). </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">This one is a "stock photo" from a NM.gov site - the antelope were plentiful, but the car was traveling too fast for my own shot - they're out there, though!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UPzG7pef3c0/VwPkbO4-AOI/AAAAAAAAH98/0-qdm1z8T7o9paQkSR71-b9qbCbqTP-rg/s1600/6Skies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UPzG7pef3c0/VwPkbO4-AOI/AAAAAAAAH98/0-qdm1z8T7o9paQkSR71-b9qbCbqTP-rg/s400/6Skies.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;"> Where seldom is heard...</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqyTj4ANJu4/VwPkbAbjIJI/AAAAAAAAH-A/EtwLQuORbMUVlv3JKqWoOJi-ZKpNzWEfg/s1600/7Peaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqyTj4ANJu4/VwPkbAbjIJI/AAAAAAAAH-A/EtwLQuORbMUVlv3JKqWoOJi-ZKpNzWEfg/s400/7Peaks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;"> A discouraging word...</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-19w6nnOzwNs/VwPkbPfm25I/AAAAAAAAH-E/-sDJQ1WVPW0KRiVknzRRhvi7LFUVbN4Yg/s1600/8PalisadesSill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-19w6nnOzwNs/VwPkbPfm25I/AAAAAAAAH-E/-sDJQ1WVPW0KRiVknzRRhvi7LFUVbN4Yg/s320/8PalisadesSill.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Along the road that leads from the dinosaur in Taos to Cimarron, New Mexico (or as we like to refer to it, the "back way" home to Denver), there are some pretty spectacular sights to be seen. Deer; antelope; the cliffs and palisades (think fences or walls around a fortress) of Palisades Sill. The age of the Palisades Sill has been estimated at between 26 million and 34.7 million years...I wasn't too far off with the dinosaur, evidently!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2IlkFU0n_0/VwPkbS4oYqI/AAAAAAAAH-I/mYh5aOZ8oWkVJzedjhbtHomFBg0uP3JgQ/s1600/9Crinolated%2BPeaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W2IlkFU0n_0/VwPkbS4oYqI/AAAAAAAAH-I/mYh5aOZ8oWkVJzedjhbtHomFBg0uP3JgQ/s400/9Crinolated%2BPeaks.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Camping, fishing, hiking - all in one breathtaking spot. For more information, click on the link!</div>
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<a href="http://www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/cimarroncanyonstatepark.html" style="font-weight: bold;">CIMARRON CANYON STATE PARK, NM</a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MAVIhcYq61s/VwQZzVlrl0I/AAAAAAAAH-Y/Eqftzl8IQuko-sRtnSjRrkWBdgn6DdB3w/s1600/10BuffHerd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MAVIhcYq61s/VwQZzVlrl0I/AAAAAAAAH-Y/Eqftzl8IQuko-sRtnSjRrkWBdgn6DdB3w/s400/10BuffHerd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And just down the road from that, we ran across THIS!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Puz9ppiVcOg/VwPkYM1hH-I/AAAAAAAAH-M/EFhSJdn9u8UJTyxZCJ_elYNNu5H27Vcjg/s1600/11BuffRanch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Puz9ppiVcOg/VwPkYM1hH-I/AAAAAAAAH-M/EFhSJdn9u8UJTyxZCJ_elYNNu5H27Vcjg/s400/11BuffRanch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A glimpse of what life across the United States plains used to look like, on a far more minuscule scale. Imagine these plains COVERED with dark brown, as far as your eyes could see!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k3YGKMW1U4A/VwPkYLVoHuI/AAAAAAAAH-M/j0W9uMP-A1c-7Dc8WMI6CloskFvac1noQ/s1600/12BuffaloRoam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k3YGKMW1U4A/VwPkYLVoHuI/AAAAAAAAH-M/j0W9uMP-A1c-7Dc8WMI6CloskFvac1noQ/s320/12BuffaloRoam.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This private herd of possibly 200-300 head of buffalo was awe-inspiring enough - it's hard to believe, and indeed sobering, that these magnificent beasts were almost obliterated from the face of this earth by man's stupidity and greed.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3GeEItWnBs/VwPkYgRFkSI/AAAAAAAAH-M/eYJwMrklcaYXVzVOAgw5gw15HL4RuywFQ/s1600/13BuffRanch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n3GeEItWnBs/VwPkYgRFkSI/AAAAAAAAH-M/eYJwMrklcaYXVzVOAgw5gw15HL4RuywFQ/s400/13BuffRanch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A highly electrified fence (buffalo need extremely sturdy fences to keep them where they should be - they can make short work of an ordinary fence in no time), and no tripod to rest upon, made my distance shots a little hard.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WkVFAlWpOsM/VwPkY8zwQYI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/suIIOg2SHJIl083dXiAKnGwj9IXEOu4qg/s1600/14BuffRanch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WkVFAlWpOsM/VwPkY8zwQYI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/suIIOg2SHJIl083dXiAKnGwj9IXEOu4qg/s400/14BuffRanch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is a beautiful, obviously well-cared-for herd - we were certainly glad we took the "back way" home.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QEuf2aeLrhI/VwPkZYCCd0I/AAAAAAAAH-M/JZIHksEOme8gK3eM-CChLDqDJPjQjG0iQ/s1600/15Buff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QEuf2aeLrhI/VwPkZYCCd0I/AAAAAAAAH-M/JZIHksEOme8gK3eM-CChLDqDJPjQjG0iQ/s400/15Buff.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And now, in researching my own photos, I find that Vermejo Park Ranch is owned by none other than media mogul, Ted Turner - 600,000 acres worth (or about 3/4 the size of the state of Rhode Island - what a shame, huh?!) of prime beauty, stretching from NM to CO. <b> <a href="http://www.nmmagazine.com/article/?aid=91138#.VwQcG_krKM8">"A TURNING POINT IN TURNER COUNTRY"</a></b></div>
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These were taken from the side of the lowly road outside the ranch (thankfully it wasn't snake season, as I was in some serious, knee-high weeds along that road)...I can only imagine the inside - this is as close a look as I'll ever be able to afford. This was more than enough for me!<br />
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A young bull, surveying his "wealth". Here's to getting out and surveying some of your own wealth in the coming, warmer months. More Travel Tuesdays to follow, possibly with just enough inspiration for someone to make their own plans. There's SO much to see out there - time's a wastin'!<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b>...and the skies are not cloudy all day!</b></span></i>Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2146190618841810120.post-18301071852266046782016-02-20T11:18:00.000-08:002016-02-20T11:19:03.620-08:00PLAID LUNCHBOXES AND MERMAIDS - SATURDAY FUN...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTeyH1EOVI8/Vsi2maKip_I/AAAAAAAAH8o/8ZyOxzWS-BI/s1600/Lunchbox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTeyH1EOVI8/Vsi2maKip_I/AAAAAAAAH8o/8ZyOxzWS-BI/s400/Lunchbox.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Enough with the monkey - Happy Saturday, and JUST fun stuff! I have looked forever for the plaid lunchbox I carried to Grade School, starting the day of this picture - my very first day in First Grade. Untouchable because of price, in most antique stores, my daughter gifted me with this new reproduction set from Aladdin this Christmas. She ROCKS! My parents sent the picture - they ROCK, too!</div>
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My dress matched the lunchbox...and now I wish I had the Saddle Oxfords, too! As for reference to running past monkeys in the last post? It (an ENORMOUS black spider monkey) hung in the trees of a farmhouse on my way to and from school. TERRIFIED me - probably why I stayed so skinny then, from all the running! Maybe I should try it now.</div>
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The new lunchbox set is adorable, with all the old graphics under the lid, but new, useful containers inside - and an improved, large thermos, with METAL inside - anyone remember breaking the glass insides of the old ones? Running from monkeys?! This will go with me on my travels this summer. I love it - I love my girl who thought to get it for me - I love my parents for sending me to school in style. Stupid monkey!<br />
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And some final pincushion/cage doll inspiration for you to go out and fancy up one of your own. This went to a friend two weeks ago - a California ocean loving, girl...this is the mermaid.</div>
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Handmade silk and silk velvet (yes, it's a real thing) roses - antique buttons, and vintage brass pieces, including a large clam shell and octopus. Satin and oceany tulle skirts and ribbons - she was sent with oodles of large seashells, a large dried starfish and three mercury glass type ornaments to fill her.</div>
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Hoping your weekend holds nothing but fun. Maybe some creative time - definitely no monkeys - some "ME" moments for YOU, and possibly a well deserved nap. XOXO</div>
Tanya http://www.blogger.com/profile/10949961269443532464noreply@blogger.com11