Friday, January 24, 2014

There is






But

Somewhere out there

someone is building their

paradise


via

via



via


via
 
a young man and his dog

see eye to eye


via


a fish

brandishes its tail

that arrests you 

in a moment 

of 

weightlessness

 
via



a farmer waits to tickle

a field to yield 

tulips that will reap smiles 


via


a museum visitor 

stops and inhales the past




 while 

a forest creature

takes its first



via


via

and 

last breath.


via


But behind the cycle of good and sad

there's always someone 

who knows the secret to living.





In Tennessee

a woman illustrates 

and

writes about her farm animals

and  also

takes great care in designing

and sewing

the perfect bear to 

accompany her books


jeri landers


and

what color to make her frock. 



jeri landers



There's someone out there

who cares


135 comments:

Simplement ... said...

Des découvertes qui font plaisir ...
C'est avec ces blogs extraordinaires que j'éteins l'ordi, la tête et le coeur dans les étoiles.
Gros bisous Anita et mille mercis.
Marie-Ange

prince snow farm said...

Beautiful Anita! Farmers tickling fields….fabulous….art surrounds us. How privileged we are!

Rattus Scribus said...

Love this post. There is beauty you cannot bribe or corrupt. It does not age. It does not ask our permission to be. It would still be here if we weren't. But we can choose to join it. And it costs nothing. It is like poetry, which poet laureate Stanley Kunitz called the last uncorrupted art form because it has no market value. Great post. Great music. And those pics of the baby bear and the flower-smelling bear are too cute for words. They just made me laugh.
Bravo.
Ruben

Row homes and Cobblestones said...

Anita,
This post is beautiful, with perfectly chosen photos and words. Yes, there are people building their paradise... so many more than we even realize. Who believe that life holds special meaning and should be lived to it's fullest, moment by moment. You my friend understand how precious daily life and people truly are and have put together meaningful unique blog entries to make all of us appreciate and truly value the circle of life and to reach for the stars.
To be mentioned in your list of amazing bloggers has brought tears to my eyes and a desire to not disappoint. From the bottom of my heart, thank you my beautiful soulful friend.
XOXO,
Vera

Seawashed said...

O dear Anita this is just what I needed to read, see, feel today. You dig deep down into your(and our) soul and bring forth beauty, tangible beauty for all our senses to take in and birth hope. LIFE you give dearest friend. You are a light shining in the darkness and the darkness could not comprehend it. Bless you for lifting us Heartists up...always lifting our spirits and encouraging our souls. I love that koi fish...in all its light flowing pinkness. Merci merci merci and mercy....xxo I love that your momma prayed the rosary with you in spanish as a little girl. How tenderly she loved you. She taught you to LOVE. what a treasure. Kerrie

jerilanders said...

Oh my gosh, I think I may cry... The Bear Music, the "tickled" blue tulips, the wee baby bears all accompanied by your beautiful, lyrical "voice". And then, to scroll down and see my Mamsey, I am touched beyond belief. The breath of Nature and true art, living in that frame of mind, how wonderfully expressed that these can be "moments of incorruptible beauty". Thank you for honoring all these artists,and thank you for your consistently uplifting and treasured words.

a breath of fresh air said...

What a lovely blog, gorgeous photos too :-)
In trying to achieve a small bit of paradise here in e highlands I would love a table and benches like those in the 2nd photo. The bird with nesting material and the man and his dog photo really strike a resonance with me too, isn't it lovely how we all get something totally different from reading it.
Annie

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Bless your heart for this beautiful and poetic tribute to dear Jeri.. Mamsey Bear is a treasure!
Your words dance on the page my dear friend.. Your kindness is endless... Thank you for including my name along with these wonderful artists!
Bisous!

Constance said...

Good Friday to you Anita:)
That first english home with the lavender took my breath away it was so beautiful.
Perfect sound for this post.
As always, you lift me above with your heart inspired words and pictures.
Caring makes all the difference in life:)

Sarah said...

Oh, dearest Anita, I would put your name at the top of the list! Love the thought "heartist"! Your "word" images are exquisite. You never fail to delight the senses.

Andrea Ostapovitch said...

'heartists'. That is a great word. I'm new to your blog, and I have so thoroughly enjoyed your last 2 entries, I can't wait to delve in and go back to the ones that came before. A truly beautiful space you have created here. Thank-you.

therelishedroost said...

This reminds of A Lonely Doll , my very favorite book when I was little! The Bears were the spitting image of these beautiful bears!
Have a lovely weekend and keep on creating!!

Rhonda said...

Beautifully said and as only you can do! I love "Heartists" - it's brilliant! Blessings to you, an angel on earth.

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

Thank you for sharing the beautiful post - lovely words and lovely photographs to match.
Love the thought of the Heartists - I always come away from you blog and feel happy to have visited you.
Happy weekend dear friend and many thanks for your kind visit and words you left on my blog.
hugs
Carolyn

wandamarie.blogspot.com said...

OH such a WONDROUS and SPECIAL post! and I too just love that term Anita, "the heartists". much love to you, wanda

Anonymous said...

Awh...this was ever so sweet Anita...
and here's to you...to your fabulous
heart of hearts! xoxo

Christel said...

Dear Anita, Thank you! You too are anrtist, one of many talents, but I would say your words paint the most beautiful pictures for all of us to enjoy. XOXOX Christel P.S. getting better here finally. I hope you received my email?

Divine Theatre said...

There is no one quite like you, Anita!

xo

Andie

Createology said...

Dear Anita you neglected to include your name in this list of amazing HEARTists. Your beautiful words and images are breathtaking. Blessings Peace and Joy...

weekend et coup de brosse said...

Très joli post ! Très bon week-end!
Cath.
(Cath HC Photographie)

Art and Sand said...

I love that word - HEARTists.

There is so much bad/ugly/sad/mean in this world, BUT there is so much more goodness, beauty and happiness. Thank you for being part of the goodness and beauty and sharing it with all of us.

Little Miss Titch said...

SO Beautiful Anita,and a wonderful tribute to your friends,this year is so full of promise i just know its going to be wonderful when I read your creations,love from us both xx Rachel and Speedy

Lynne said...

Dearest Anita,
How do you do it?
You read my heart from afar.
Here is where the Heartist's gather, give and grow.
Here is one of my favorite places to seek joy through tears...
w/L

Unknown said...

I have a feeling 2014 is going to be a good year...there is so much wonder, excitement and beauty and this is what carries us all through the sadder days...as always, dear Anita, a beautiful post xx

Barbara said...

Dear Anita,
I never visit you without feeling better for the visit. Your lovely words and images will stay with me until next time when they will be joined with yet more lovely words and images.
Have a wonderful weekend. Thank you for all the kind words on my blog and thank you for being you! Hugs Barbara

Unknown said...

That is really lovely. Your post made us smile this morning Anita. Have a super Saturday.
Best wishes Molly

YONKS said...

Oh Anita,
You leave me speechless!
Love you.
Di
X

VM Creation Atelier said...

Anita,dear,wonderful Anita!!!
Enjoyed you post again and again...............................:)))*

LOVE all meaningful deatils and senses here,they are coming from your mind!
SOoooooooooooooooo special and SOooooooooooooooo BEAUTIFUL!!!

Thankyou million times for these moments,dear friend:)))*

Much Love,
***Violetta***

The Dutchess said...

.........

J'adore..xoxo

VM Creation Atelier said...

Anita,dearest!:)*

You are always beyond kind and wonderful person!
Thankyou for your visit by me and a very kind woords....
I had been a long time travelling and now try to find my creativity again:)*

Much Love,
***Violetta***

Jeanie said...

What a beautiful post -- every illustration, every word is simply divine. And I just loved how with all that there are still those who will make careful decisions on the color of the bear's clothes. And I am so very, very grateful for them! And you.

http://bitsandpieces-sonja.blogspot.com/ said...

It never fails... you always manage to surprise me with your thoughts, and bring something that I've never thought of, every single time Anita. No wonder I love to hop over here - you always make me smile.

Karena said...

"Heartists"... I love this Anita! Thank you so much for visiting and keeping me in YOUR heart!

xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena

The enchanted home said...

Thanks for letting me dream a little Anita. There is beauty all around us and this reminds me of how important it is to sometimes just block out the rest of the world focus on something we love or that makes us happy and just get lost in it for a little bit. Love your ability to help us look at even the simplest things in a new and profound way.

"Create Beauty" said...

Bonjour!!!!
It's important to our well-being to focus on what is good isn't it my dear?
Those things that are beautiful, excellent, pure, true.

all the other stuff craves our attention. the bad stuff wants to steal our joy.
But beauty and art uplifts.

Thank you for including me in your list.
You top mine!!!!

~ Violet

koralee said...

Oh my dear...this is so true! Such joy can be found when we focus on the GOOD. The colour of the little bear's coat is important to all of us heartist kindred spirits!. We do the things that make us happy! If I was to focus on the troubled world all day I would be in such awful spirits . Thank you so much for including me in your list..you are so so kind.
You have freezing temperatures still my friend..another day off on Monday? I will send you some of our amazing weather...sunshine

and temps of +12c {about 54d} ...it really has been unbelievable for January here.but I will not dwell on that as I know it can change in an instant so I will just enjoy the sunshine's gift today.... Happy weekend dear one....do what makes you HAPPY! xoxox

Denise said...

I'm familiar with some of these artist already,a few through You I'm sure.I'm excited to visit the new ones to Me. I always get excited about new inspiration. My spirit soul and body are always looking toward paradise here on earth (my own little one) and the eternal one in the future.Blessings to You and Yours Anita.Hugs Denise

Personally selected products said...

My dear ANITA!
Never stop to revel in your exquisite sense of aesthetics. your love for art and sensitivity that you project on each photo and each text.
  YOU are my big special friend, so far from my country and so close to my heart!

I always enjoy your every post to the fullest.
I wish you a good weekend

Luisa
xxx

Bilancia Designs said...

My dear friend, you never cease to amaze me with your thoughtful, beautifully designed posts that make us crave for more...
I am so very honored to be among the list of such a talented group of artists.
Thank you very much for including me.
You will always reign "queen" at the top of this list.
Thank you for making my day.
Much love to you...
Lisa xoxo

Unknown said...

Dear Anita,
A lovely post - as always. This may sound silly but you really do inspire me. One day I too will begin to build my paradise…
Kirk
x
PS
The photograph that spoke most to me was that bird with the nesting materials. I felt a pang in my heart when I saw it.

Leslie said...

To start the day with the birds singing.. such beautiful music Anita. Taking pride in what we do.. loving what we do, no matter what it is and realizing that beauty is everywhere:):) Enjoy your weekend Anita! xxleslie

Privet and Holly said...

Imagine that, indeed.
In a world that can be
filled with ugly, there is
also so much beauty that
it can take one's breath away.

Thanks for contributing your
own loveliness.....

xo Suzanne

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

Thank you very much for including me on your list, so kind.
It was also really lovely to have a visit from you.
Hope you are having a beautiful weekend
hugs
Carolyn

It's me said...

Owww Anita...you are my angel on earth...love you with all my heart !!!...love love love Ria...x !!

Row homes and Cobblestones said...

Anita,
If I could today, in a blooming winter's garden, I'd pick the most glorious bouquet to deliver to you in your open artistic hands and kind heart. Capturing absolute beauty to smell, cherish and admire the magic that exists in our world full of wonder and grace. For it is in sadness that makes you realize the goodness and greatness that passes through our lives. It makes us thankful for rare and fleeting precious moments. Enjoy your weekend and find beauty that grows upwards from your heart.
XOXO,
Vera

Red Rose Alley said...

Anita,
Artists make the world more beautiful, indeed. Some of these names I am familiar with, and they have such talent. Violet painted a picture of two girls that I won in her giveaway, and I will keep it forever, it's so lovely. And Marcia, oh my.........everything she touches turns into something special. I truly believe that she puts a stamp of LOVE on all her creations. Her tags are so pretty, and I'll cherish them always. Speaking of artists.......... you know, I gave the sweet Valentine cards that you made to dear people in my life, but I had to keep a couple for myself. I was wondering if you will be making any more this year?

I love the picture of the field of blue tulips, and the woman with her roses is so pretty. But I have to say that my favorite on here is that little bear smelling the daisies. Oh my goodness, that is priceless. I liked the story about the woman with her teddy bear. I love teddy bears and am partial to them. My mom collected bears, and when she passed away, we each got one.

What a nice post this was today, and you are a special heartist too.

Love,
~Sheri

Kelly said...

Life is good my dearest Anita, we just have to Believe and SEE! I am having happy tears because of YOU and other wonderful bloggers out there! Lest we NEVER forget our BLESSINGS, my DEAR friend!!! Thank you, Anita and all who make this world a lovely place to take part in! <3

wandamarie.blogspot.com said...

thank you La Anita (i accidently wrote an "L" first, ergo La;) for your newest words on my blog. you have endeared yourself to me immensely. you are so very creative, talented and soulful, an extremely special human...i anxiously await each of your posts! Face Book has just about killed my blog and many others i have noticed. certainly not the end of the world, but i miss being more personal with like-wise souls, so i am extremely happy to find you. xoxo

Purple Flowers said...

Dear Anita: Once again you make me smile. On a cold winter's night, I sign on to your blog post, and see and hear such wonders of the world. Thank you my friend.

♥ Mary Janes TEAROOM said...

Dearest Anita...such a wonderful post ...you are such a treasure! Your words come straight from the heart and never fail to inspire! I always look forward to seeing the beautiful images in your posts too (in fact I'm dreaming of living in the house at the top right now :-) ) Thank you so much for including me in your inspirational list of 'Heartists' ....I feel privileged indeed...x
Happy Sunday to you lovely lady...(it's so dark and windy here this morning but I'm enjoying my morning coffee and some blog reading!)
Susan x

Pallavi said...

How beautiful dear Anita! There is so much of positivity in your posts ..always :) Love visiting your blog.

Simply LKJ said...

Yes, it is so refreshing to know that despite all of the terrible goings on around us, there is also still so much beauty. Thanks for sharing Anita. Beautiful imagery.

deb famularo said...

Dearest Anita,
Humbled to be among those artists in a touching post like this. Thank you, truly. I know, with all the chaos around us in these trying times, the escape of art is a Blessing. Life goes on. We need to color life happy in our worlds and when we get knocked down, we need to keep getting up, stronger. How do you always have the most inspiring messages for us? It's a gift my friend. You're a gift to us with your he-art! much love... and thank you..... xoxo

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Anita dear, artists just do things naturally and what inspires them. Your precious story is so sweet. Love the bear. You always leave me inspired and wanting more.....xo

donna baker said...

You, Anita, are one of a kind.

Down by the sea said...

Just so beautiful!
Sarah x

millefeuilles said...

Perfect! Dear Anita, I have tears in my eyes. Each time you hit the publish button you reach out to so many readers who LOVE your work. Each time you post your thoughts I feel as though you have looked into my head and heart.

Thank you for caring. Thank you for expressing so poetically what so many of us believe and feel.

Yes, I do believe there is a lady out there who muses, lovingly, over which colour frock to make her bear. I do, I do, I do.

Hugs from rainy, happy France,

Stephanie

Madelief said...

Sometimes I wish I could write my words down in Dutch. There are so many beautiful Dutch words to express how beautiful your post is and what your kindness means to me.

I hope the snow in your part of the world will melt, the cold wild dissapear and school will start again. You must miss your pupils so much and the happy atmoshpere.

The weather in Holland is so different from yours. No snow or extreme cold this year. Just noticed the first snowdrops in the garden. So lovely! How such a simple flower can make you happy :-)

Wishing you a happy week ahead! Sending love and kisses from Holland,

Madelief x

Bonnie said...

You always bring a smile to my heart. Beautiful! Bonnie

Stacey said...

Magical! Perfect images to accompany such a heartfelt post. Love it! I also love your coined term heartists; just perfect. xx

Das Hohe Haus said...

You are wonderful. Thank you so much for your writing, all your amazing pictures and the magical music. You make me smile, wonder, hope, believe. Thank you for being there.
Hugs, Steffi

koralee said...

Happy Monday my friend!!! Are in a deep freeze today? Thinking of you wondering if you made it to school or not.
It is another stunning day here so no excuse not to be happy for me. Love and hugs and we begin our new week.
xoxoxox

Martina said...

Hello dearest friend and welcome to a new week! Am still without internet and am stealing a few moments at my husbands office .... LOVE your new post and thank you so much for including me in it - just made me smile and sending you hugs from over the ocean! Soon more from me . have a funtastic day Anita! xox

renae said...

hello sweet Anita! Ohhhh, take care and do stay inside. My gracious! That is so freezing there. wow. Thanks for liking the new scenery. That was super fun to do. I have to drag HM with me tho, for protection. I mean it is not dangerous where we live at all but one never absolutely knows for sure, huh? A man did come walking by and I didn't see him at all until he was right by me. I turned and HM was out of the vehicle just to indicate that I was not alone.

Yes, do take more photos of your surroundings and such. You post is full of wonderful photos this time. I love those little bears.

Sylvia said...

Dearest Friend, you always make my heart soar... and my world more beautiful! A Heartfelt Thank you to all of you, Heartists! Your name stays at the top of my list!

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hello dearest Anita!!!!!!
How was your weekend? Cool blog post!!!!! I always adore your photos!!!!
My dad called Mayo on Friday but his biopsy results were not back yet. My mom is a nervous wreck as am I. We just try & keep busy. I try not to think about it.
Do you have any plans for the Superbowl? We usually just relax and watch the game- maybe invite a few friends over but nothing big.
It's SO cold here!!!!!! Overnight another massive frigid blast came through. Hope you're staying warm!!!!
Sending love & hugs,
Shannon

Unknown said...

Anita, everything in this post is just perfection! Those photos of newborn animals, it reminds me of when my kitten came out of the closet (where she was born) and saw the morning sun for the first time. Thanks for putting into words all this beauty!
xo Mary Jo

wandamarie.blogspot.com said...

oh Anita...thank you again for your words and for dubbing me a HEARTIST. YES there is MAGIC and YES i find it here every single time, even if it's a second or 3rd to leave a message...i stay longer and sigh and feel so positive after leaving. your WORDS and your PHOTOS and the WAYYOULAYITOUT, are PURE POETRY of the heart! xoxo

Anonymous said...

Heartist...love, love, love. Thank you for including me on this very special list, my friend.
You know how often I wonder about caring for such seemingly insignificant details the way I do, but it is those very details that make life so precious. Life...moments and details.
Yes, I will be taking in this beautiful post again and again.
Off to visit a bear about her frock. ;)
xoxo's

Anonymous said...

PS-Love the music too...listening to all that nature too...so peaceful.

Palomasea said...

Oh, ANITA!!!!!!! How will I ever find the words to express what it is you do to the soul...
I will say this, dearest HEARTIST, you create PARADISE for us...right here, right now.
This was like a short film...again! BRILLIANT WORK.
(And I saw Jeri's post...oh my goodness, I want that bear!!)
I must visit you by e-mail now....
See you there!!!!
LOVE YOU! THANK YOU FOR YOU!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Unknown said...

Pure beauty and inspiration as always Anita. I'm thinking the balance we seek may really be more about the focus. There are dreams and beauty all around if we look in the right direction. You are a gifted artist my dear and I love visiting your heartfelt home here.
xx

Unknown said...

Bonjour mon ami! Youve done it again and written something so touching, and shared a talent so deserving. Everyone cares passionately about something and I love how you bring passion to us through your writing. Bethany's post today on Winston is her new passion...come see! Have a great week. xo Nancy

hi-d said...

Hi Anita,
I came by earlier and then hopped over to Jeri's blog. Oh my goodness! Amazing what she's doing! You have some of the most talented friends, I tell you!

Hope you are having a good week. Are you still getting lots of cold weather and snow?

Heidi

Maria said...

~ As enchanting a post as you are, Anita...A true artist in both words and deeds...I LOVE that you mentioned other creative souls here today...I'm off to have another read and to pop in and say hello to a few you have mentioned....It's simply wonderful being your friend on here,,,
With kindest thoughts....Maria x

nélinha said...

Coucou chère Amie, je suis déjà sous le charme de cette belle musique douce et aux sons enchanteurs que peut nous offrir Dame Nature, je pourrai me définir comme ce visiteur qui s'arrête devant cette magnifique peinture et qui inhale de toutes ses forces les douceurs et les rêveries d'un temps révolu...Je suis en admiration devant ton billet et je te remercie de m'avoir cité dans ton lien d'amitié....C'est que du bonheur!!!!Merci pour cela....
"The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart." Helen Keller

French kiss
Nélinha

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

MERCI Anita, for your enthusiastic comment! You are always, always so encouraging...
So happy you enjoyed Oliver!
I must go see what Violet has going.
BISOUS!

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Dearest,
The music is on my sidebar, right next to the last photo of Oliver.. it should say Bebe's favorites!

Nadezda said...

Chère Anita c'est très beau, d'autant plus que mon nom de famille est lié à l'Ours :)

Amicalement !

Unknown said...

I hope 2014 proves to be a good year for you and yours!

vicki archer said...

Thank you Anita...
I do love this post... I'm up way too, too early this morning so I am enjoying a quite moment with your beauty...:)
xv

miss b said...

I do agree that taking pride in what we do is so important and paying attention to all those little details around us such as the bear's clothing! How relaxing to just sit and admire the beauty of the classic country garden of this pretty cottage and those tulips are just stunning., The vivid colour seems to jump off the page!
Thank you for your thoughtful comments on my blog - always appreciated.

Anonymous said...

Someone is building their paradise - I love that! And of course, there is you, ANita, with the biggest heart of all!

Anonymous said...

Someone is building their paradise - I love that! And of course, there is you, ANita, with the biggest heart of all!

BRASWELL said...

adore the music you have on this post + which by the way, is wonderful. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

Anonymous said...

Gotta love your header. :)
Thank you for visiting yesterday, Anita. Miss A.J. is starting to "FLY" with her painting and I'm loving it. Her dad was speechless, and that's always an extra pleasure for her. For me, I am simply delighted to see how she is LETTING GO and you can see it so clearly in this painting.
I added a few scenes from January's Flight and if you visit you'll see what I mean as far as its serenity. I have experienced so much beauty in that place, that a camera would simply never be able to capture.
Warm hugs.

Karena said...

Dear Anita,
I wanted to let you know about my first 2014 Artists Series feature...I think you will enjoy it..
xoxo
Karena

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Was that a hoot or what! Thank you for visiting again.

Barbara said...

Thank you so much for your visit today. I feel sad for the little child with no books, but I know you are making up for it now. Have a wonderful day xx

Constance said...

Happy Thursday to you, dear Anita! Hope that you have a wonderful day, making it magical despite all the snow:)

Martina said...

Happy weekend dearest Anita! Am making my rounds just now as we'll be gone for the weekend. Hope you'll be having a lovely one!
>So enjoyed looking at all your darling pix again - the bird is especially sweet! xox

Tammie Lee said...

such a lovely post. i feel as though i went on a beautiful journey.
so sweet that you shared Jeri's book. my copy arrived in the mail recently. i must sit down to enjoy it.
sweet days to you!

Sandy at You May Be Wandering said...

Thanks for sharing a little bit of dream land with me today, Anita! I missed this earlier this week and am so happy I found it now because it made my day. I hope you are having a lovely day, my friend, and that it warmed up a little bit. xoxo

Suz said...

Again, I missed this fabulously beautiful post of yours! My blog roll fails me.

M.A. the 2nd ~ Frances Russell said...

Dearest Anita! So beautiful and so wonderful to know that there are like minded souls out there who care about these beautiful details!!! To know that that pure goodness is there is so wonderful amidst the dark times in the world. We must continue to believe!
best wishes
Frances
xx

Vintage Home said...

Beautiful...and what a wonderful tribute to the creative hearts that beat as one...endless beauty and inspiration.

Ann said...

Thanks for spreading some optimism...
This is inspiring and I hope more and more people
will believe and experience for themselves what a beautiful world we live in.

I love all those gorgeous images.

Jen Beaudet said...

Love this beautiful post! So inspirational! :)

Deborah said...

Perfectly lovely and filled with love. That's YOU Anita!
Hugs!!!!
All my heart,
Deborah xoxoxoxo

Kerri said...

Oh what a sweet post! Very talented artists featured on your blog :) I love to paint so I can totally relate to your comment about someone cares what color a bears clothes should be! :)
Hope you have a blessed weekend.

xoxo
Kerri

Creations by Marie Antoinette and Edie Marie said...

Bonjour sweet Anita!

I am so mesmerized by Jeri Landers and her talents! She is such an incredible artist and it's all about the those tiny details that make her and her work so special. Wouldn't it be a true joy to live in her world for a day? I can't imagine.

I'm sure you have been keeping busy. I heard that your state really got hit by the snow & winds & temps. We've stayed in a lot! Our escape is an antique mall nearby where we reminisce, wish, dream, regret some of the things we've let go and most importantly get our walking in! We've found so many cool Christmas gifts. ( We already have 2 gifts for next Christmas!)

My youngest "Sweetie Girl" is with us this weekend, she's our Valentine baby born on Feb 14th!! We are drawing and having fun with art today. Her advancement drawing her fav cartoon girls, Sailor Moon, is amazing. I bought her a vintage "how to draw" book for Christmas and she's really going to take off with drawing. I'm so happy that she inherited her Dad's artistic abilities.

I love every word of this post. It's wonderful!!

bisous my dearest, Edie Marie

Leslie said...

Anita! Did you not see that YOU are the winner of the giveaway?! You can replay directly back to the email comment with shipping information:):) xxL

Jen Beaudet said...

Hi Anita! Thank you so much! That is really unexpected but I'm so grateful and honored to be included! I'm so happy you get compliments on your portrait but it's YOU so of course you do! :) I love the name you've given her!(I need to go look up what it means) Have great weekend! ps Congrats on winning the giveaway!
Jennifer

millefeuilles said...

Dearest Anita,

How wonderful it was to see BOTH your messages this past day, thank you SO MUCH for taking the time to visit me in France, dear friend. I am trying very hard to visuaise the extreme weather conditions you are experiencing when on our side of the world we have been subjected to mild températures, sun, lots of rain; all most unwinterlike! I'm praying that February will bring dry cold and a little snow. Two hours of driving in the morning must certainly add to your day's work! I hope that spring sends you sweet messages very soon, wonderful friend.

Warmest wishes (it would seem you are in need of a little warmth),

Stephanie

Pondside said...

How utterly beautiful this post is. Thank you.

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Hi Leslie! Yes, I finally saw that I was the winner! I did send you an email that I hope went through, this morning! Thank you so much! Anita

Leslie said...

I was so excited that you won Anita! I'll ship them to you early this week! xxL

Preppy Empty Nester said...

Anita... thank you for always producing posts filled with such beauty and inspiration.

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Oh Dearest Anita to come here and see such beauty, (your blog is just pure beauty).....the home and those blue tulips are so cooling and refreshing to see on such a hot day as we are having!!! And then to see my name there with all the Heartists my Heart just did a big flip....Thank you so much for all the Beauty you share with us and I am so honoured to be up there! Much Love to you....Dzintra xoxoxo

hi-d said...

Hello my friend!
Just popping in to say "hi!" I hope you're enjoying your weekend. It's about time for me to head to bed...at least for a while until little one wakes up again. Enjoy your Sunday, sweet friend!
Love,
Heidi

Magia da Inês said...

¸.•°♡♡♫° ·..
Um delicado post.

Ótimo mês de fevereiro!
Bom domingo! Boa semana!
°º✿♫ Beijinhos.
º° ✿✿ ♫° ·. Brasil

Brandi said...

You have such a beautiful way with words.

Style Diary Of A Fashion Fanatic said...

Hello Anita!!!!!
How has your weekend been?
We received very sad news this week. My dad was diagnosed with early stages of esophageal cancer. I really wasn't expecting it. My dad is very hopeful & is remaining very positive!!!!
I feel good about the treatment today but it's still SO scary!!!!!
I hope you had a great weekend!!!!
Sending luv & hugs,
Shannon

June said...

The artistry in every one of your posts is pure magic dear Anita! I always leave here with a smile on my face and a song in my heart!
I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful week my dear!
hugs from here...

Ivy and Elephants said...

Thank you, Anita, and all those listed who share their artistic gifts and beauty with the rest of us. It makes the world a gentler and more loving place.
Big hugs,
Patti

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

Bless your heart my dear friend! My heart is happy reading your wonderful words you left for me and my wee mice.
I am so happy you enjoyed!
bisous!
Penny

hi-d said...

Dear Anita,
You are so sweet. I always enjoy reading your comments you leave on my blog. That photo was a selfie! Ha! I took it with my iPhone but didn't like the way I looked...so I cropped it and changed to black and white. Thanks for your kind words. I really like the photo now! :)

I am blessed by all of these men. heehee...they are lots of fun. And yes we did watch the Super Bowl. Rob's favorite team won! Yay!!!

I hope you had a good weekend and have a blessed week!
Heidi

Rhissanna said...

Well, goodness, of course it matters what colour the bear's frock is! It matters very much indeed to the bear. Thank you for the list of Heartists. I will make a cup of tea and have a look at the talents you've curated; see what wonders are hidden there.

Martina said...

Dearest Anita, sorry i come so late - have been trying to comment from my cell, but it didn't work! Thank you so much for your kind visits and words - oh, i so miss my usual communication! Hope you have a splendid start into the week - Feb. - the month of LOVE - remember? xox

Martina said...

Forgot to say: of course you can pin my image/painting - anytime! :)

Lylou.anne said...

Coucou, je découvre ton univers grâce à Nélinha, Mes Passions en toutes saisons - un amour.
J'aime beaucoup ton billet, les photos sont magnifiques, merci du partage.
Je m'abonne à ta news pour ne rien manquer. A très vite, bisous.
LylouAnne

Michelle May-The Raspberry Rabbits said...

Oh my dear friend....you forever touch my soul with your writing, music and photo combinations. I always leave feeling like I got the biggest hug from you. :) :) :)
xx

koralee said...

How are you this week my dear.....what have you been up too? Hope your weekend was restful and you are ready for an exciting week. We are in the thick of Government testing. Poor grade 4s. xoxoxo HUgs

Elizabeth@ Pine Cones and Acorns said...

Hello my dear girl,

I tried to comment on this the day you posted but Blogger was not cooperating, my comment kept disappearing. No matter, this beautiful post has been ingrained in my mind. "Heartists" are all around us and how lucky for me that way back when I found you. Your words, images and love of life encourage me everyday and make me smile. You are a gift to many and your gifts of which you have been blessed with many are spread like fairy dust each and every time you post here.

I hope that you have a blessed week, stay warm.

Kirsten Steen said...

What a lovely tribute! And I'm so glad you have Penny in there. She deserves it. And I've been gone far too long. Hoping all is well with you and you're enjoying your class. Catch me up on what's been happening with you!

Leslie said...

Hi Anita! Your sweet crushed velvet hearts are in the mail :) It's been a busy work week and took me a couple days to get them to the post office. I hope you enjoy them:) xxL

renae said...

It has been a bit of a struggle getting to my blogging in the past few days. Just too many doctors and such bugging me lately {well, they mean well, but still bugging me nonetheless}. So thank you for your sweet compliments and kind words, dear friend. I shall be making better efforts in staying organized and on top of my blog until the surgery warrants me to rest. Thank you for being there for me and all! ♥

It's me said...

You are right ....yesterday i made some posts....i always do that once a time...and something goes wrong with blogger.....but friday their is a new post from me...once a week that is enough i hope .....love you...x !

Red Rose Alley said...

Hello, my love. I was just missing you and wanted to say Hi!

It's sunny here today. Do you have any special plans for Valentine's Day?
Me - just going to my favorite Italian restaurant with husband.

Hope your day is great.

Love,
~Sheri

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Add your name to that list, Anita! You are at the top!

Loved this...

xo

Sheila

HWIT BLOGG said...

Just LOVE the pictures….
Take care!
Titti

YONKS said...

Beautiful Darling Anita!
Just to get am mention from you makes my heart sing.
You are my guru!
Di
xoxo

marielle said...

C'est magnifique ! l'ours est un animal si attachant. J'ai gardé ceux de mes enfants et je les regarde parfois avec une grande tendresse quand j'ouvre le placard où ils dorment. Jeri Landers a beaucoup de talent. Ma maman est couturière et ce métier me fascine car je n'ai pas des doigts de fée !
Bises

Robyn said...

I am just immersed in a sea of beautiful images and thoughts as I read through these posts I have missed, Anita! You have me under a spell. You weave the most fantastic scenes and I am so grateful to have the chance to experience them. Thank you!
PS...You may have an issue with your mailing system. I tried putting 3 different emails into it and got a message saying that each one was already a subscriber, which is not the case. I have followed you on blogloving so I do not miss you again! Hope your weekend is wonderful, sweet lady.

Anonymous said...

Oh Anita, this is pure poetry! Your images and carefully chosen words take my breath away! Celebrating all of the artists you highlight… and YOU! Thank you for bringing such beauty to our world! ♡ Dawn