Cats in Hammocks

Yeah, cats and hammocks don't sound like a good combination. Kind of like cats and bathtubs. But, both of our kitties have mastered the skill of getting on and off the hammock when there are humans in it. Since Michael and I have been enjoying the cooler evenings by sleeping in the hammock, the kitties have been joining us, often all night.

"Good morning, Bagheera."

"I should probably get out of bed now..."

"Or not."

Room with a view of my favorite tree.

Editing::Networked Ladies

For the past few months I've been attending monthly Xperience Connections networking events hosted by Carole Cheatam. Each time I go, I meet new, interesting ladies, all entrepreneurs from a wide variety of industries, many of them active moms or grandmothers.

The Group! My webmistress, Sarah Greer, is down front.

I like the XC format. Each event is a ladies-only "closed" network, which means only one representative from each industry may be represented (no competing with the gal sitting next to you). It's a "pay per event" arrangement, rather than a fixed monthly or annual membership. And you can attend as many or as few events as you like. Our area has several leaders, all of whom have regularly-scheduled events, and you decide which one(s) you want to attend. You're not required to show up to every weekly or monthly meeting.

My new networking buddy Sandra Rogers

I especially like Carole's events. Hers are in the evening, so you're not interrupting your business day. We begin with socializing and a light supper (always creative and yummy) prepared by Carole. During the "formal" part of the meeting, we each give a three-minute presentation about our business. When that's done, there's more socializing.

Kimberly Fodrie (Snellville's leader) and Carole)

If you've got your own business, I highly recommend attending an XC event in your area. If you're shy about going to new places on your own, bring an entrepreneurial friend or associate. I was introduced to the group by my Personal Banker, Amanda Hayes at SunTrust. She's the Queen of Networking (that's a lot coming from me). If the other groups are even half as lovely as ours, you'll be comfortable whether you bring a friend or not.

The End of an Hair-a

Thomas as been letting his hair grow out for a few years now. He's got this thick, dark, curly hair, the kind any woman would kill for. But, as anyone with long thick hair can attest, it takes a lot of work to maintain, and is hot in the summer. Lately he'd been asking me to braid it for him when it needed to be under control.

I was a bit surprised when he came home from his painting job with short hair. He says it feels much better, but it certainly will take a bit of getting used to.

Snarl of curly locks

Editing:::Writing Retreat at Moon Shade Hollow: It Sneaks Up On You

Sometimes a thing just looks like an ordinary thing...

Oh, what a nice little table and lamp.

Until you get closer...

Hmmm...there's some sort of design on that table.

And closer...

Wow...that looks like it's handmade. And really complicated. What is that?

 And closer...

Holy crap, that's a bunch of different peices of wood all fitted together to make a butterfly.

Marquetry is one of those extraordinary traditional talent/skills that is easily overlooked and shouldn't be. Please take a few minutes to watch a demonstration of the process. Let it sink in how excruciatingly detailed this work is. And then take another look at some of the pieces I've posted during this writing retreat.

Then take a moment. Take a look at what's around you. Is there some human element that you hadn't noticed before and can now appreciate?

You might be surprised by what you find.

Editing:::Writing Retreat at Moon Shade Hollow: No Words Necessary

Well, I might have a few words...

Lake.

Boat.

Dock.

 

Saint.

  

Cats.

 

Clock (the other one that doesn't run, but these words don't count because they're in parentheses).

 

Medallion.

 This is Moon Shade Hollow and The Little House. Go there. You'll thank me.

That is all.

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