A Rustic Family Tradition

For the past couple of years we have been attending an old fashioned celebration of Thanksgiving in a cabin. The charm of this situation totally suits the gathering of friends and family associated with the Thanksgiving holiday. The beautiful drive in the country to get to the secluded location is down long winding roads, past old farms, and through small towns. We feel grateful and fortunate to have been invited to share in this unique tradition created by the generous family of one of Ben's relatives. I just love this cabin, and the love that goes into making this communal event something special for 

so many people! Truly a day of thanks and giving.

The feeling of warmth you get from this old camp located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains is absolute perfection. A central stone fireplace with a hearth on both sides, fills the room with heat and a relaxing place to sit and enjoy being in an old rocker. Certainly a great place to catch up with the relatives and warm our toes.

It is a large and friendly group that comes together to share the great outdoors and the cozy cabin atmosphere. There were about 37 people sharing Thanksgiving together in this space. The only thing that would make it more perfect for me, is to have my children drive out one year and share in this experience. Not to worry though, I did visit with my babies after Ben and my glorious afternoon in the country.

It is my guess that this private fishing and hunting club has been in existence since the late 1800's. The rustic main cabin is filled with the kind of old memorabilia you would expect to see in such a time honored place. It is living breathing vintage that's still being used to it's fullest potential today. Surely that is the way it should be.

The cabin sits on the edge of a large creek that after three days of rain had over run its banks.  The water was just feet from the cabin and caused road closures in the area just one day before Thanksgiving. Lucky for us that rushing water receded, and we had 
a warm, sunny, and wonderful autumn day. Everybody was happy, 
and all was right with the world. You can feel the goodness in those moments and be grateful. Being in nature gives you a chance to meditate on those thoughts in the ultimate peaceful surroundings.

There are many old group photos of the members of the club from over the years on the cabin walls. Old fashioned scenes of camping, and men standing in front of the very same cabin wearing the patina of time. This camp is still used by it's members all year long, weather permitting. The main cabin and surrounding land reminds you of a time when there was no television, people enjoyed the outdoors, each others company, and reading. How refreshing not to be assaulted by football and obnoxious commercials, and live the true spirit of Thanksgiving... Family, friends and great food.

Sitting on this stunning property is an expansive field next to a pond, just right for the sporty types to get their game on for real. For those who would like to relax while they enjoy nature there are many weathered picnic tables in the shade of various venerable old trees.

Families that are associated with this club have had their private cabins for generations. It's a fantastic tradition of sharing with your family and friends something other than a TV screen and a hand held device. You have to love that these days! Needless to say there is no need to replace that authentically aged sign either.

Everywhere I turn I find treasures and time worn items. Even the new addition to the cabin porch is done with that natural cabin style. But something was missing... Off I went looking for the old dinner bell that used to sit where this railing is today. I found that the old iron bell was currently resting on the ground beyond the porch.

You can see the creek runs right along side of the cabin. Pretty cool! So picturesque! Oh I was talking about the hubby! Well I think it's time to get back inside and see whats cooking! Hmmm I could have sworn that clock said ten of two before we walked outside... Most fishing and hunting cabins have their fair share of the ubiquitous stuffed animals on the walls, and this old place is no different. Saw a moose...saw a moose...did he do the fandango?

All the family members and guests bring a dish to contribute to the bounty of the many overflowing Thanksgiving bowls and platters that are set out on a table on the far side of the fireplace. The dessert table is up front by the entrance, I suppose so you can make a quick escape with your pumpkin muffin! Two very long wooden tables flank the room with rows of comfortably worn old wooden chairs on each side. I can smell ye olde' Turkey. So it's time to choose our seats, hold hands for a few kind words, and say grace.

Dinner was delicious, and I did a fair job of not overdoing it this year. Even with all the yummy dessert temptations, I only had a teaspoon taste each, of a pumpkin casserole, and an apple bake. Outside the sun is getting low on the creeks freshly made mud flats, and the girls are counting raffle tickets on the porch steps. I think we need to walk off dinner and stare into the calming effect of nature.

You can certainly see why I took so many pictures at this charming little camp. As I look at this photo of these branches from the woods next to me, something about it reminds me of the old John Lennon 'Imagine' album cover. Cool.... and hey, dig that 'Wizard of Oz' fighting tree with it's gnarled arms just below!

Our drive home during sunset was lovely and I was snapping photos out the car window! Silly me, a bit obsessed. I wish my eyes were a camera! Anyway, now we were off to round two of turkey time at my daughters home. My son was visiting and that is a rare treat! Oh, and I can't believe I had more to eat, but it was so gosh darn good!

You can view all of my images from this Rustic Cabin blog much larger in a slide-show format by clicking on the first photo. Even an image in the middle will do fine. A new larger view will open with a black background and then you can then click on each small thumbnail to scroll through the entire series. Images look much better that way!

Textures: Shadowhouse Creations, Frames: The Coffeeshop Blog

Jaime Brick's Enchanted Sculpture

We were so excited by these woodland inspired sculptures by Canadian Jaime Brick at Faerie Con that I knew I would have to blog about this imaginative and creative soul! Jaime was kind enough to let me take some photos of his extraordinary artwork. You can certainly tell this man has an understanding of natural beauty mixed with a sense of humor which is apparent in the two distinct styles of his sculpture projects. Check out those silly guys below!

 
Here is a quote from the Information card I picked up at his booth. " Abandoned as an infant, Jamie Brick was taken in and raised by a pack of wild medieval rabbits.  This unusual upbringing reflects in this artist's eyes as he sculpts, stone, wood and mixed media into creatures from a world that lies just left of center."...and...

Long-winded Artist Statement "My work reflects a didactic ascension into a downward spiral, metamorphosing into a translucent solid of good vs evil and my fear of abandonment."
 

In truth as with most art, the artist does not always know what direction the piece will take him on the creative journey, but you can smile in wonder when everything seems to work together perfectly.   

Many of the figures started as life casts, which Jaime has transfigured into very magical beings. How about being the subject of one of Jaime's sculptures yourself? You could be a woodland nymph, as Jaime also does custom commissions in which he can work on a theme along with your budget. He is a member of the International Life Casters association and he promises to provide you with a safe and comfortable experience using the latest materials. It would be so awesome to own one of his unique one of a kind sculptures and be the inspiration. Be sure to click on the individual photos to view the detail of his beautiful figures and sculptures!

 

If you should take on the quest of seeking out Jamie's Canadian studio to view his art or become a wondrous sculpture, your journey will lead you along a narrow winding road weaving through the forest of Draper.  "The forest is a rough magical landscape.  Legend has it that in the middle of the forest is a valley of white skin trees where Faeries still gather in gossamer gowns, their hair wild flower woven.  Great wizards still practice ancient lore.  At the end of the road near the edge of the map lies Bear Bottom Studio.  Here in the forest Jamie lives with his wife Annette in a century old cabin nestled against the Lake of Draper.  He invites you to visit the studio and walk through the lake side gardens or to sit by the lake and breath in the serenity."  

His work can be seen in the Life Casters Museum In Boston as well as other galleries that are listed on the Jaime Brick website. Jaimie's work ha been featured In Faerie Magazine, and Jaime Brick Studios will return to Faerie Con 2011. If you are traveling to Hunt Valley Maryland check his work out in person! You will be enchanted!

That Goddess Glow

Twinkling from a window last evening, the sun, rain and sky were creating magic! When I find rays of light, I call that 'God Sky.' When the light sparkles all around in the air, that is the 'Goddess Glow.'

The glow was spreading across the sky and landscape. You can see the rain in the shaded layers it made in the trees. We need rain and if you look closely in the clouds you can make out a spirit rain dance.

Protecting my camera under my arm, I walked carefully across the slippery yard. The treasure was just on the other side of an out building. A flash of rainbow came shooting up from the treeline.

The enchanted light was moving across the land and surfaces. Everything glowed and sparkled golden. This 'pot of gold' at the end of a rainbow spilled everywhere lighting up our world.

The generous beautiful Goddess was not done with me, as thirty minutes later I gazed into a shimmering lavender sunset. Deep pools of liquid color floated across her vast theater of sky. 

With this kind of magic in the air... the Fae would surely be out and about the Realm tonight. Returning inside, I am wrapped in the wonder of the light you can only glimpse...and never catch. 

State Fair Days

We traveled to the 'State Fair' two weeks ago. The weather was perfect for the Bink to visit the 4H animals and wander the 'Cow Palace.' Yes, even the cows in our magical realm live in a Palace! Though it is not as nice as mine!

When the children are little it's the tradition to go see the various 4H farm animals at the fair. So now my little girl, is bringing her little girl to the State Fair! Grandma and Grandpa get to share the joy.

The Binkster is nineteen months old and at the age where making animal noises is fun. Everyone enjoys watching her excited reactions to seeing real farm animals up close.

This little Alpaca was reminiscent of a car salesman!

One big cow on her way to the milking parlor was squeezing her extremely large head around her handler in quite a funny way.

Then a 4H member brought a calm little calf over to let the Bink get close. The calf even made a silly face for the camera!

The Midway at the 'State Fair' is colorful, crowded and loud. We much prefered to meander the 4H barns and buildings.

Aowyn the brave, reaches out for a horse. She loves all the animals!

A highlight of the trip is always the large Pig momma!

Those baby piglets are always a rambunctious sight! Yes it's all piggy giggles until mom rolls over and says she has had enough of this squealing feeding frenzy! The two at the top were having words!

Baby ducklings are very popular with the wee set. How cute is this line up of little girl peeps? Aowyn, much younger than the older girls next to her, fits right in with her momentary friends.

Just sharing a "very friendly" moment of wonder with her new pals.

This sweet pair of lambs look very lovey.

 And speaking of LOVE... There's my honey and me.

Check out the 'Champion Long White Fleece' winner. Looks very luxurious wool lovers! Fairytale spinning wheel anyone?

When you ask the Bink to "be cute"..this is what she does.....Yes, she already knows how to work it! Wins our heart every time.

We all enjoy our end of afternoon stroll through the 4H garden entries. This colorful squash reminds me that 'State Fair' days signify the end of summer. I love the autumn, so that is quite okay with me! Bring on those gorgeous fall days!