Hello my friends

"Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor... Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting." ......Mother Theresa The beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves, and not to twist them to fit our own image. Otherwise we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them. .....Thomas Merton Hello my dear friend, Enjoy your day...Be happy, Smile often and Dance when possible.... Have Big Dreams ... Ty for your friendship and for making a DIFFERENCE!!!... Peace, Love and Light... Huggs     This is really worth watching so I do hope that you will bring up the following Internet address,Turn your sound on too. And Oh, and grab a box of tissue..... you'll need it!!!                                                           http://www.teachermovie.com/

From Care2, it was Buddies Day

Helen

 

Happy Buddies Day to all of my care2 buddies. May you sparkle and shine the same way that the rose does that I send to you. HUGS!

 Karen

wildlife artist Daniel Smith.

 

Cold Plunge Acrylic Private Collection

 

Copyright Daniel Smith. All Rights Reserved.

 

 http://www.DanielSmithWildlife.com

More Hidden Art & even hidden hands with the Artist!

 

 

 

Photographer Greg Kiser .... first feature 7/25/06

I think ones work says it all really,

the photos tell a story on their own

and show the Photographer's heart and spirit. Ann

  
 

Trees of Ft. Fisher   





 
Copyright ©  G. Kiser

Smoke On the Water  

You can also read about my hikes

and see more pictures in my waterfall directory.

Copyright ©  G. Kiser

Anthony Creek Tributary  



Water Slalom  



Old Mossy Log  



Dugger's Creek Falls 

 

Fire and Ice  

                                   Photo Copyright © by his wife
Welcome to Photo Trek,
a North Carolina Photographer's Journal.
Greg Kiser

Four Forty-Six Photography an online photo gallery of my work -- updated 03-15-2007
Photo Trek My photo journal
The Call of the Waterfall My waterfall directory

email me at: NCPhotoTrekker@aol.com

 

Leaving the Rat Race  

                                                    (all photos copyright © Greg Kiser)

The Fine Art of Concealment

The Fine Art of Concealment

By Michele M Beaulieu 
Monday, January 01, 2007
Article Rating: 9

The Fine Art of Concealment One of the most pleasant surprises in viewing art is to see something we thought we were looking at suddenly change before our eyes and become something else. This is a technique the artist uses to present the art of concealment. It’s a vision within a vision. It’s about images hidden within images. There are stories hidden within objects, people or animals that switch themselves like a modern morphing wonders. It’s referred to in the art world as camouflage art or hidden images. In the juvenile world, it’s sometimes called hide and seek art. Contemporary masters of this illusionary technique are Bev Doolittle, and Judy Larson. Other artists using similar techniques are Deborah Mae Broad, Chris Van Allsburg and Anthony Browne. Two of these artists are scratchboard artists (Larson and Broad) and being a scratchboard artist myself, of course I am intrigued not only by their work, but how they have incorporated this technique into their art. My Early Awareness My introduction to this phenomenon was as a kid sitting at the kitchen table and studying that famous illustration (first concept appearing 1914) on the Morton Salt shaker cardboard box. The company developed a salt that would be free-running even in damp weather. In 1911, a little girl with an umbrella and her now-famous slogan, "When It Rains It Pours”, was created to promote this new product in a national consumer advertising campaign. The little girl in the yellow dress against the dark blue background was seen holding her umbrella, walking along, holding a box of Morton salt under her arm as it spilled out . The salt box she was holding showed a picture of none other than herself in the same pose, and so on. I remember being transfixed at that image thinking how this was a never ending loop and remember the hypnotic pull to such a kooky idea of an image that never died or went away–it just happily recycled itself into itself, thus achieving immortality in the world of art. Pretty clever I thought. http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/3saltgirls.jpg Hidden Images in History Michelangelo was known to have hidden images in his paintings and carving them into his marbles. Peter Breugel the Elder 1520-1569 and his fantastic surrealistic paintings concealed and twisted images 500 years ago. The Fall of the Rebel Angels by Peter Breughel the Elder http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/brugel-text.jpg Contemporary Artists Bev Doolittle Artists use many different techniques to achieve the same goal. We are probably all familiar with Bev Doolittle’s “Pintos” watercolor painting, where she shows a group of pinto horses (brown and white) at the foot of a rocky snow covered rock formation. The rocks and snow reveal much more than rocks and snow. And so we have the 2nd story: What does this mean? It’s obviously more than an illusionary trick of the eye. We could interpret Bev’s painting to mean many things....forms in nature repeat themselves...there is a great majesty we can only be in awe of as observers of nature......the past is never lost, but is carried on with the living. The symbolic meaning is up to you. What is wonderful about this art is that it asks questions that we the viewer, are challenged to answer. It does not give us answers but only asks the questions. http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/doolittlepintopair.jpg Here are Bev’s words about how it happened. "I was observing a small group of chestnut horses in a grassy meadow when I became aware that they were 'observing' me. This seemed like an interesting situation for a painting. I also thought it would be fun to have the horses observing you, the viewer, before you could find the horses! So I began to think of ways to camouflage them. The chestnut horses became Pintos, and the grassy meadow turned into a backdrop of rocks and snow." - Bev Doolittle Judy Larson Larson is consumed by the story as well. Her pictures tell a fascinating story and go beyond a beautifully executed drawing. Her works like that of Doolittle’s, ask questions of the very nature of man and his relationship to the world. Perhaps in these times of destruction, war and extinction of our beloved animal kingdom, we might reflect upon artists who are dealing with these issues in a non-combative way. They are presenting their philosophies through the mediums of their art and their art is available to all of us at many price points. There are no excuses not to open our eyes. On her website, Judy Larson has a page where you can move your curser over the scratchboard drawing to reveal the spirits within. http://www.judylarson.com./imagekey/index.htm Child’s Play by Larson”Child's Play" celebrates the wolf, now listed as an endangered and threatened species. http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/Larsonduopair.jpg " The subtle hidden image of the two Native American children asks that we replace the deep superstitions of our European ancestors and awaken to the joy and wisdom wolves bring to our world.” Deborah Mae Broad Broad does etchings, wood engravings, drawings and scratchboard. Her art encompasses poignant portraits of animals in surrealistic settings. She uses humor and satire to present her point of view. Her soft and subtle use of hidden images lead the viewer to another place in time where one’s imagination can soar. http://deborahmaebroad.com/gallery.htm Camouflage Art for Young People In the world of children’s books, camouflage art sometimes is  referred to as Hide and Seek art. Chris Van Allsburg Many people are aware of Van Allsburg for the films from his books like Jumanji and Polar Express. Van Allsburg has been awarded the Regina Medal for lifetime achievement in children's literature. In 1982, Jumanji won the National Book Award and in 1996, it was made into a popular feature film. In my opinion, the film has its place but cannot compare with the experience of sitting down with a child and reading this book together, watching the magic happen and the story unfold through these amazing drawings. http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/jumanjipair.jpg Jumanji “In his second book for children, Chris Van Allsburg again explores the ever-shifting line between fantasy and reality with this story about a game that comes startlingly to life. His marvelous drawings beautifully convey a mix of the everyday and the extraordinary, as a quiet house is taken over by an exotic jungle.” See Van Allburg’s terrific website http://www.chrisvanallsburg.com/home.html View Allsburg’s books at his website http://www.chrisvanallsburg.com/timeline.html Anthony Browne Anthony grew up in a pub in a village called Hipperholme in Yorkshire. He loved art and would spend hours drawing with his father. As well as drawing Anthony played a lot of sports like rugby, football and cricket. After school Anthony studied graphic design and then went on to paint pictures of the insides of people's bodies for medical textbooks. He found this job fascinating but after three years felt that the work was becoming a bit repetitive and so began designing greetings cards. This led him to illustrating children's books - his book Gorilla began life as a picture on a birthday card. You can find Anthony Browne’s books (over 22) at the Walker Pbl site http://www.walkerbooks.co.uk/Anthony-Browne Here are two of my favorites:  Changes and The Tunnel. Don’t think they are just for children. You will be surprised. Check out the sink carefully. http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/browne2bkspair.jpg In conclusion, camouflage art is an exciting exploration into the art of drawing. It’s more than just another art technique. Look around and you will find more hidden images than you thought existed. Once you become aware of this style of art, it’s fun to collect this art and enrich your life, the way art is supposed to do. The author (Beaulieu dba Naquaiya's) contribution to hidden images world inventory. Spider Cat scratchboard by Naquaiya http://www390.pair.com/naquaiya/spidercat.jpg

Artist: Judy Larson

Studio W

The Official Judy Larson Websitewildlife camouflage artist judy larson features limited edition prints canvases of wolves horses Native Americans and hidden images art ART ONLINE ART.
www.judylarson.com/ - 6k

From Care2:)

HAPPY SPRING
Hugs

R.

WHEN BICYCLE HELMETS MAKE NO SENSE

 

 

 

 

In the late afternoon we arrived at the Cliffs of Moher, my main excuse to visit Ireland. The 600-foot-tall cliffs are entirely vertical and very abrupt. My dream was to ride along the curvy ledge, which ranges from six feet to six inches. But when we arrived, the weather was deteriorating and herds of tourists and security guards made another pub crawl a better choice. (Victor Lucas) // view gallery http://thoseresponsible.com/blog/screenshot.asp?gallery=23&foto=120             Risk in Adventure The art of marrying competency and risk in order to create a peak experience. Psychological Risk in Adventure Nearly Roadkill: An Infobahn Erotic Adventure (High Risk): why people adventure, the role of risk, This same scenario is repeated year after year, with death or debilitating injury coming to people skiing/boarding, canyoneering, rock climbing and participating in other adventure sports.Today is one of those days when I reflect and ask, "Is it worth the risk?" There is no easy answer to that question. Skiing out of bounds where there is extreme avalanche danger is certainly not worth the risk. But there are plenty of opportunities to participate in adventure sports that carry minimal risk. With proper training, proper equipment and common sense, almost every hazard can be avoided.Yes, I did say "almost every." Adventure carries risk. On rare occasions accidents are unavoidable. So, again, I ask myself, "Is it worth the risk?" I think it is. I believe adventurous activities, keep within reasonable bounds, offer tremendous payoffs. And I’m talking about benefits more tangible than the thrill that comes with the adrenalin rush. Sociological studies, and my personal experiences, suggest adventurous activities help kids develop confidence and self-esteem. Kids that fish and hike and ski and camp are less likely to get into legal trouble. Participating with family members can strengthen family bonds. The activities often become serious hobbies that provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Many humans, myself included, seem to have an inborn craving for adventure. Inorder to survive, most of us learn to temper this appetite by using common sense. We discover we can have tremendous adventure rushes while minimizing risk. By Dave Webb

Our mission—“we” including current downhill world champion Steve Peat and Irish photographer Victor Lucas—was to hit some of Ireland's best biking spots and most famous pubs. We’d been at it for six days, crammed together in a camper with six bikes, including my two GTs and Peaty’s Santa Cruz downhill and freeride steeds. The good news? We were winning. We’d hit seven pubs already including the Guiness Brewery—yes, of course it tastes better there—and Sean’s Pub, Ireland’s oldest, dating from the 17th century. The bad? I didn’t want to see another pub for another month, or at least a few hours.

 

The accompanying gallery chronicles our trip.

—Hans Rey

Hans Rey is the former mountain biking trials world champion. He currently travels the world as a sort of fat tire ambassador.

Greg wanted a Mens Day? They have a day, a week and month!!

I noticed this on my calendar today...I had to wonder if there was a "man's day"?  Now don't say Sunday because the games are on TV, I couldn't care less about sports, so if that's it, I just got hosed.  I want a day!  Happy Woman's Day to you!

Greg
Comment from radar446 - 3/8/07 2:16 PM

 

 Here you go, Greg!

TheUncommon Man: In support of International Men's Day

---------- INTERNATIONAL MEN'S DAY 19th November

The objectives of celebrating an International Men’s Day include improving gender relations, promoting gender equality, producing responsible males and highlighting positive role models.

The annual observance of International Men's Day on November 19th seeks to address problems and challenges facing men. These issues include the involvement of men in domestic violence, drug abuse, fathering, homicides, sports, media, power, sexuality, politics, religion, parenting, war, suicides and family life.

Some of the goals of Men’s Day – to promote unity, resolvedisputes, cultivate greater understanding between men and women, increase tolerance and thus create a safer, better world.

This special day for men was initiated in November 1999 and received an overwhelming response from men's groups in North America, the Caribbean, Asia, Africa and Europe. In public forums, discussion groups and conferences, attempts were made to address and seek
solutions for the problems facing males in today's society.

Individuals, international associations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and religious bodies have been contacted to assist in the observance of this special day.

There is also a need for the regular hosting of international conferences on men to address issues and seek solutions.

Hopefully, in the long-term we can make International Men's Day on November 19th an annual worldwide event with beneficial results. It is hoped that men interested in improving themselves and reforming other males would be part of this ongoing "Men's Revolution" and annually celebrate International Men's Day.

At work, in our communities, schools and religious institutions, there should be dialogue between both sexes for greater understanding and tolerance. Thanks for your support and advice in this endeavour as we strive for gender equality and attempt to remove the negative images and the stigma associated with men in our society.

2004 International Men's Day --Trends Photo Gallery by Joyce Wa... photo sharing and upload · picture albums · photo forums · search pictures · popular photos ... 2004 International Men's Day --Trends. 2004.12.23,???? ... www.pbase.com/showmeafuture14/mensday

National men's Grooming Day??????  http://youguysshouldknow.vox.com/library/posts/tags/national+men's+grooming+day/

 

NMHW National Men's Health Week Featuring information about activities surrounding National Men's Health Week http://www.menshealthweek.org/

 

June is International Men's Month - 2006 Menstuff® celebrates International Men's Month June 1-30 by discussing a different men's issue each day at "Today" on our home page. ... http://www.menstuff.org/calendar/intmensmonth.html

Paintings of Dishes with flowers and cloths:)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thinking Spring! Flowers!!!!!!:)

WILDSEED FARMS

 

                                                                 

 

From a friend at Care2:)

hello!

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.' We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?... Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do... It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we subconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." .......Marianne Williamson From Wild Flower Collection Wild Flower Gardens   Bird's Eyes It is better to light candles than to curse the darkness. It is better to plant seeds than to accuse the earth. The world needs all of our power and love and energy, and each of us has something that we can give. The trick is to find it and use it, to find it and give it away. So there will always be more. We can be lights for each other,and through each other's illumination we will see the way. Each of us is a seed, a silent promise, and it is always spring. .......Merle Shain Little Running Deer, Poetry      picturezone/free/hybiscus             Trees Bow My heart leaped up As I saw the flowers, A deep rose Color here, The hanging Rosy purple Color there, As the fingers Of the Mulberry tree Brushed my hair. And the evergreen Trees bowed to me as I mowed their green carpet. Little Running Deer    http://thumb7.webshots.net/t/58/158/4/67/80/2888467800026745827eAAKHD_th.jpg Rhododendrens at Kalaloch, Washington State Kalaloch - Washington                                 Jewels In My Mind Drops of water Like jewels running Through my fingers The sweet water That I may Never taste again Mountain snow water So sweet and crystal clear Like a dream Of long ago The picture painted In my mind Of the shallow mountain River rushing swiftly by So sweet and crystal clear And the drops of water Like jewels running Through my fingers Are now running Through my mind. Little Running Deer