tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76081458065428368542024-02-19T20:08:30.762-06:00Phoenix PyrocreationsLaurisa's Christian and Wildlife pyrography art and a perfect corner of the web to share her thoughtsLaurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-48916889670923833112013-06-23T14:16:00.000-05:002013-06-23T14:16:09.836-05:00Horse WIP <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh56DPGMisTggB8anvLXmfwIdUHEx2l0W6TshEORUbhdpWkaMRcg0t52kFALYrRLtdSF8i1loC84zw1U50ykbW4OaU_h_-gamNnLEr2FSUsALHunIGQTiV_avCmoQbaAoQ2n6j5aySWkN8/s1600/Olivia's+Birthday+089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh56DPGMisTggB8anvLXmfwIdUHEx2l0W6TshEORUbhdpWkaMRcg0t52kFALYrRLtdSF8i1loC84zw1U50ykbW4OaU_h_-gamNnLEr2FSUsALHunIGQTiV_avCmoQbaAoQ2n6j5aySWkN8/s320/Olivia's+Birthday+089.jpg" width="240" /></a>So I went through one of those dry periods, which I'm still chugging through. Inspiration was low and what I did sketch I was very indecisive about. Finally a little voice in my head said, "It's time for a horse." And indeed, it had been a very long time. So, I took ten minutes and sketched out this handsome steed, placed him on the wood and began burning. <br />
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Normally, I don't have the patience to burn large backgrounds and vast areas, but horses hold my attention. The lighting on this one is particularly fun, and I had a blast with the mane and forelock. <br />
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I'm not finished yet, but here's a peek at my progress.<br />
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See my Facebook: Phoenix Pyrocreations Pyrography for more details.</div>
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I am really excited to make prints of this one.</div>
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Thanks for coming!</div>
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Please leave a comment or follow,</div>
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Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-35231812918769924332013-04-15T18:55:00.003-05:002013-04-15T18:55:44.934-05:00Kokopelli Fire-flute<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This Kokopelli was entirely of my own conception, and the inspiration for the embers glowing throughout his body came very shortly after drawing his silhouette. </div>
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My client wanted a silhouette ..but I thought... needs some color. So we agreed and I hope to release this amazing Kokopelli portrait as a reproduction print on my Etsy shop very soon. (Licksoffire) </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/76968250/mother-natures-origional-water-carved?ref=shop_home_active">https://www.etsy.com/listing/76968250/mother-natures-origional-water-carved?ref=shop_home_active</a></div>
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In the mean time, check out my other Etsy listings and follow me on Facebook! <br />
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I am always accepting commissions and will gladly work with you to create the perfect wood piece for you and your home.<br />
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The original Kokopelli Pyrocreation resides in the home of my client, Ms. McKinnell and is not for sale. <br />
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Thanks for dropping by!! </div>
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Comments and feedback are coveted!!</div>
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Let me know how I can better serve you!</div>
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Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-56596238734725313602013-02-25T17:39:00.002-06:002013-02-25T17:39:48.445-06:00New Prints Available SOON<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Hey Everyone! I've been terribly busy torching out my latest, and now we're getting ready to make these sweet little Pyrocreations available as reproduction high quality art prints for your wall!!</div>
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Check out the Chess Set, for Man-caves, kitchens, game-rooms, dens, or ...anywhere you want your Chess nook! </div>
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The Rook, the Knight, and the Queen, or King piece. I called it Queen, but it has a cross on top which is unique for Queens in most chess sets.</div>
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And then.... the Jazz!! Presenting Jazz is the Color!</div>
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I am tempted to offer this one in sepia, black and white, as well as full color! </div>
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So keep tuned on Etsy for the appearance of these awesome prints, and in the mean time, check me out on Facebook!! Thanks for dropping in!</div>
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<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-3868865729068959552013-02-02T18:31:00.001-06:002013-02-02T18:32:24.354-06:00Teaser (Paper Shackles Book Release Excerpt)<br />
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So maybe you've heard a little word noised abroad that Paper Shackles is now available on Amazon, through Kindle, and on it's own page. See link below. </div>
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<a href="https://www.createspace.com/4077773?ref=1147694&utm_id=6026" target="_blank">Get Paper Shackles HERE!</a> </div>
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But if you're not sold by the cover and the summary, here is a teaser trailer to tickle your senses for mystery, adventure, excitement, and generally... teenage mischief </div>
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Paper Shackles TEASER</h2>
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Excerpt from Chapter 1: The Motivator</h3>
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Seventeen
year old Jason Sparks stood patiently by the getaway vehicle, dragging on a
cigarette to calm his nerves. A crisp,
March breeze chased dead leaves around on the asphalt and fueled the burning
end of the cigarette. It glowed bright
orange one moment, then fell to a dull red, then sparkled a bright yellow the
next. A rickety, wooden fence, far from
upright, bordered the back of an old convenience store and directly behind it
raised the dry branches of an overgrown wood.
The dead, winter leaves chattered and rattled in the wind sounding very
much to the ear like a soft spring rain.
Even though it was late, a chorus of bullfrogs croaked from a
water-logged ditch nearby. The glow of a
street lamp on the front corner of the store lot provided just enough light for
someone on either side of the building to work without being seen. Jason's eyes wandered over to the convenience
store as he thought about the task at hand.
He wasn't superstitious; but the entire setting gave him ominous
vibes. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
The handgun
lodged in the young man's belt was perhaps a large part of his
discomposure. He had never handled a
weapon of that sort before, having no tendency for violence. Times before, the gang had taken on daytime
thefts accomplished by the boys working in pairs or acting as a mob. One had usually caused a distraction while
the others made off with the product. At
other times, they had all acted as one, smashing, looting, grabbing and
running. Jason had not been only
surprised when the gun had been placed in his hands, but quite disturbed. He had even protested. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
“Never seen a
gun before, Jay-man?! In case things heat up, you got yourself a
motivator. It's yore ticket to freedom
if something goes wrong!” Spencer, the
Alpha Brother explained, checking the rounds in his own handgun. “We're going to the next level. You been here long enough to share the glory
tonight. That's love, man.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
Jason had
tried to look competent with the gun, but failed miserably. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
One of the
brothers shook his head peevishly as he arrested the gun. “Safety’s on.
Never use a safety! Never know
what could happen!” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
Humiliated
and angered, Jason flipped the safety back on when the thug wasn't
watching. He could find some ointment
for his pride by pointing the locked gun at his competitor's turned back. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
The gang kept
its members true with terrible penalties for any disobedience or
infidelity. Superiors had to enforce
their position by performing crimes or they risked having their position
usurped by another. Before Jason's
induction, the gang had appeared to be a very tight-knit family, full of love
and support. Once initiated, Jason found
that they were a very tight-knit family, full of “love” and support, but at a
very high price. After the initiation
ceremony, the end of which Jason had not been conscious enough to even vaguely
remember, he awoke in the bed of his Alpha Brother, the man everyone in the
gang answered to for better or for worse.
This did not surprise him as much as finding that he was wearing a
permanent bruise from the ceremony: the word “Retribution” tattooed down his
arm.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
Jason Bryant Sparks, Jr. was a lean but
well-built young man with a face carved by hardships. At first glance he would have been thought
handsome for he had thick dark brown hair, dark-green eyes, fine features and
olive skin. Deeper down, he was stained
with all his peer group had taught him and he had learned well to keep from
re-living the beating he had received at thirteen years of age. His eyes were narrowed and skeptical and the
overall appearance of his face hardened and mistrustful. His brow was wrinkled with premature worry
and dissatisfaction with life; and when his chin wasn't dragging across his
breast with this weight, it was firmly set and lifted to the sky to bluff
onlookers into thinking he had both hands on the wheel of his life. In truth, he did appear competent and capable
beyond his years so he was never granted any sympathy or leniency when he was
caught in mischief. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
Jason's eyes
glistened with street-wisdom and his lip set with some trained
roguishness. It was obvious that he had
graduated with a diploma from the street-school instead of the county
high-school. In truth, Jason's nature
could have been a pleasant one that perhaps had been twisted by his broken home
and the unfaithfulness of friends. When
in good company, he was a rather likable person who never antagonized or sought
to do anyone harm. He considered
arguments to be a waste of time and didn't bother to condescend into someone
else's misery to try to prove anything to them.
He carried himself with a certain aloofness and self-worth and often
spoke his mind which got him into a good deal of altercations with those of his
class. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
He lived in
the rough of inner-city <st1:place><st1:city>Columbus</st1:city>, <st1:country-region>Georgia</st1:country-region></st1:place>
with his mother, and several step-siblings and had known more than two
step-fathers. They were often in such
hard times, that there were frequent weeks without electricity, and sometimes
without water. There had even been two
brief times in Jason's early years that they had been without a roof over their
heads. Therefore, most of Jason's
energies and resources were spent looking for acceptance, stability, and love,
which he sought in the brotherhood.
Jason had spent more than one night in the <st1:place><st1:placetype>county</st1:placetype>
<st1:placename>Juvenile</st1:placename></st1:place> Detention center for his
unsuccessful mischief with the gang. The
majority of these, he had served as the scapegoat for another more seasoned
member of the gang. Jason looked to
himself for all the answers he needed in life. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
A
particularly strong gust of chilly March wind alerted Jason when it dragged an
aluminum can across the asphalt and made a clatter. He quickly turned his attention to a hooded
figure approaching him from the shadows of the building. It was Spencer. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
“We need ya
JayJay. They's having trouble with the
window- we need an extra hand and a lot mo' muscle.” He gestured with a handgun as he spoke. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
Jason
followed Spencer unquestioningly around the corner of the building. His heart pounded at the sight of a security
camera aimed at the door. “Ya'll didn't
see the camera?” He mumbled, keeping his
head averted and tossing the cigarette butt to the ground. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
“Took care of
it a long time ago, man.” The superior
grunted struggling with the window.
“Hold the flashlight.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
When the gang
had made a successful, clean entry through the back window of the old
building, Jason, much to his dismay, was
sent up and over to unlock the steel door from the inside. He had never been fond of heights and being
sent head-first through a high window only heightened his anxiety.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Once on the other side, he found
himself in the clerk's office. Jason
slid the revolver under his belt as he looked upon the cluttered office space
for signs of a safe or cash-box. Finding
nothing, Jason opened the office door, walked around until he found the back
entry-way and unlocked it as well. The
gang flooded through and began the process of loading their getaway
vehicle. Jason ambled around the
station, wary of touching or disturbing anything as his friends loaded themselves
with their desires. He had stolen many
times before, so his conscious wasn't going to speak too loudly about pocketing
any item he desired. Jason just couldn't
shake off that bad feeling. He felt that
he should leave the scene early, or at least go back and wait by the getaway
vehicle. Right then, Spencer, his arms
loaded with merchandise, ordered Jason to return to the truck; but almost as
soon as he had spoken, a soft light filled the dark store from outside. Headlights!
The light faded as quickly as it had come, and was succeeded by the
sounds of rising sirens. Then blue and
red light flooded the store and flashed off the glass and mirrors blinding
Jason and Spencer. Spencer dropped his
treasures without hesitation and began shouting to the others; but the other
boys were already fleeing like rabbits.
One boy ran blindly into Jason, laying him to the ground. A second stepped on him and didn't even seem
to notice in his mad dash for the exit.
The impact jolted Jason from his terrified stupor. He clawed products off the shelves and groped
a display for support as he struggled to his feet. The display came crashing down on top of him. Jars shattered and pickle-brine soaked his
clothes. Jason slid over cutting shards
of glass and rolling pickles as he wallowed around in the dark until he fell
into a broom closet in the back of the building. The brine stung his cuts, but that was the
least of Jason's worries. Where was the
exit? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
Jason heard
policemen shouting as they sprang out of their patrol cars and the roaring of
the getaway vehicle growling to a start.
Then the getaway car squealed off the lot and down the road, leaving
tire streaks and a cloud of foul smoke.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Jason, still dazed from his knocks,
blows, and spills, lay crumpled in the broom closet for about a minute. He heard investigative footsteps nearby, and
jerked the revolver from his belt instinctively. Now he realized why Spencer had emphasized
its importance when he had given it to him.
Jason aimed it at the doorway and shook at the thought of a dozen armed
policemen surrounding him. He trembled
as he remembered their rough hands, hard cold steel handcuffs, and curt
words. His heartbeat and breath echoed
in his head. He became increasingly
panicked and wild-eyed as the footsteps drew nearer and nearer. Sweat rolled down Jason's entire body as his
muscles jerked and spasmed. The seconds
warped into minutes as the officers began to search the store.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
“Two took the
truck. Get the boys to head 'em
off.” A voice bellowed. “I hear something. Might be another kid-” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
At the moment
Jason thought he could be still no longer an inhumanely bright light was thrown
in his eyes. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
“Freeze, or
you're dead-” A thick bass voice bellowed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
A gunshot
split the air. Jason released a choked
cry of terror and squirmed, thinking he had been shot; but he was pulled into
an entirely new realm of fear when he stopped kicking and took one look at the
policeman stretched out on the threshold before him. Another violent tremor shook Jason's body and
he could only muster enough strength to wrench his eyes from the policeman to
the gun in his own hands. The full
realization of what had happened coursed through his mind like forked
lightening. Jason's next thought was to
put the gun to his own head and hope that there was a bullet left for him in
its chamber; but before he could raise the weapon, he saw Spencer jump over the
policeman's legs in a maniacal dash for the exit. He hollered to Jason in mid-jump. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
“Jay-Jay!
Save your worthless hide man! Get a move
on! They catch you and they'll hang you
by the throat for this!!” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
So accustomed
to obeying Spencer's orders, Jason snapped out of his stupor, scrambled to his
feet, and sprinted out the back door after Spencer. As they ran out across the lit blacktop,
Spencer extended his arm and fired a shot in the direction of the police
officers who were assuming defensive positions after hearing the first
gunshot. The boys immediately found
themselves up against the rickety wooden fence at the edge of the wood. Spencer directed another shot at the officers
and began to scale the leaning fence.
Jason followed clumsily. Neither
of the boys had made it completely over the wooden barrier when a third shot
split the air. Spencer halted suddenly,
uttered a strange groan, then fell limply backwards onto the concrete. His fall shook Jason over onto the other side
just before a fourth shot rang out. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Want More?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 35.25pt;">
<a href="https://www.createspace.com/4077773?ref=1147694&utm_id=6026" target="_blank">Buy your copy HERE!</a> </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Thanks for visiting!</div>
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<br /></div>
Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-16776553891172024762012-12-28T18:01:00.004-06:002012-12-28T18:01:50.952-06:00New Year ExcitmentWith the New Year, 2013, there will be some changes to Phoenix Pyrocreations Pyrography.<br />
<br />
First off, I will be offering High Quality Prints of my burnings for gorgeously affordable prices.<br />
<br />
Secondly, Phoenix Pyrocreations will not only be offering Pyrocreations Prints for sale, but Photography prints for sale. <br />
<br />
If you haven't recently, check out the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LicksofFire?ref=si_shop" style="text-align: center;">Pyrocreations Shop</a>. <br />
<br />
As always, thanks for stopping by, and don't forget to become a part of the Pyrocreation by joining me on Facebook or subscribing. Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-72590458696188938522012-12-24T18:28:00.002-06:002012-12-24T18:28:34.702-06:00The Redneck Shih-tzu <div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vGT4RPO7B2tnfe8mLIo76MrOfwAG3bMJQCWTNM6pGddPgdwczZk55kkHPn2Eft6ANPMZYfVxnQmzZE0oWm82Dga6pSC9h4a_lEUv_AtpGm3XjncF7pDZqMq8R86RbQob5KhyphenhyphenlY4tTks/s1600/1-Amelia's+Boy+011-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vGT4RPO7B2tnfe8mLIo76MrOfwAG3bMJQCWTNM6pGddPgdwczZk55kkHPn2Eft6ANPMZYfVxnQmzZE0oWm82Dga6pSC9h4a_lEUv_AtpGm3XjncF7pDZqMq8R86RbQob5KhyphenhyphenlY4tTks/s400/1-Amelia's+Boy+011-001.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
Life itself is not normal. So why do we expect those trapped in-between the here and there to be any more normal than we are. Even my chickens are batty- some of them. That Amelia chick I mentioned months ago, I had to extract about two feet of cord from her crop one day. She must have seen one giant white worm dangling from the coop rafters and decided she would be nourished for the next few days on that baby. Boy was she ever. It took me about a cup of oil and a lot of massaging and tugging to reverse that bit of rope from her gullet. Amelia I called her. Like Amelia Bedeilia. It was a perfect fit. And now that her egg hatched, I got one crazy little cock who stares around with that same not-normal psycho expression. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But in the There, or the limbo things are even less normal. There's this mom and pop flower shop in Defiance, Ohio. It's haunted my friend tells me; but not by any ordinary specter. Margaret they call her. Margaret the butt-pinching ghost. She may have tweaked the seats of a few random customers but so far, my friend has not been molested. When Margaret is keeping her hands to herself, she is busy tampering with the Florist's computers, opening up programs and resetting them. </div>
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And I can't fail to mention my normal neighbors. They live in Section Eight housing. They don't have much. There's really nothing wrong with them, considering that life itself is abnormal. But they bought this little Shih-tzu for a pretty penny a couple weeks ago. Oh, the pooch came from a classy litter no doubt. But it wasn't living a week in Section Eight before it became a real Dog. The Ghetto Shee-tzoo. They call him Gizmo. Gizmo the full-blooded Shi-tzoo. Gizmo sleeps outside on the land-fill driveway. He used to be white. But he's kind of black now. On Gizmo's first walk, his owner, stood in the street in lounge-wear, holding a loud phone conversation while juggling a cigarette from leash hand to phone hand. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9oYklZOZguuTNcLhlxt-PMymASMq116bAUm1bvJX6qFV7kf_J03u07IWhvr-045_SXMpQ3rb4Y016KEReiT1olTOVIlCfoOeWHdms-NWI24vIzQCJjzAC0tq1obHMAwNl7YWVtuEFp0/s1600/July+2011+002a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI9oYklZOZguuTNcLhlxt-PMymASMq116bAUm1bvJX6qFV7kf_J03u07IWhvr-045_SXMpQ3rb4Y016KEReiT1olTOVIlCfoOeWHdms-NWI24vIzQCJjzAC0tq1obHMAwNl7YWVtuEFp0/s320/July+2011+002a.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
But who's talking. My life has been no more normal than any of this. It's all in how you perceive it. Take this Chicken-nugget for example. What do you see?<br />
<br />
So this "Normal" girl is about to publish her first book. It's years later than it should be. -Like, I should have been published ten years ago. <br />
<br />
This particular story itself, was probably too awesome for me to tell. I feel so inadequate. But I've done my very best, and slaved away over it for over two years.... and now... it is ready... for Amazon Kindle!! Just so you know, nothing about the book is normal. </div>
Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-85930289174959393712012-12-01T15:17:00.001-06:002012-12-01T15:17:39.648-06:00Soon Coming Website and Prints!So after much research about how to get quality photographs of my art for print-making, I dared to brave the unknown, on my very own. I decided I would have to be the artist with the camera as well as with the pen. <br />
<br />
So of my latest commission, here is the Eagle, whom I aim to offer for sale in a variety of print sizes in the very near future. If he is my first print available for sale, he will be the start of a Phoenix Pyrocreations website as well!! Cheers! <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jdtT-bJElHDJz_zNs5cna5Z05xktbHct1IATqqLIO1z7dP7ZJQed8uDKkR46ByEYXZUIbRrDCHpG4q30n2EBu6SIm6dB6TsTe8IRDYrE6dUJbOCR8D_XZw3xrSZdFj5uIUK3u_zbgxY/s1600/1-Eagle+sample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jdtT-bJElHDJz_zNs5cna5Z05xktbHct1IATqqLIO1z7dP7ZJQed8uDKkR46ByEYXZUIbRrDCHpG4q30n2EBu6SIm6dB6TsTe8IRDYrE6dUJbOCR8D_XZw3xrSZdFj5uIUK3u_zbgxY/s400/1-Eagle+sample.jpg" width="325" /></a></div>
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I am so very excited!! </div>
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<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-66195770639460763742012-12-01T15:10:00.000-06:002012-12-01T15:10:05.503-06:00New York Police Officer's Wonderfully Big HeartMost everybody admires a man in uniform. We admire our soldiers, our EMT personnel, our Firefighters, our boy-scouts, our Football players, .......what about our Police officers? You know, they're the guys you don't much like to see because they usually appear behind you with a flash of lights, just to hand you a ticket because you were going too fast, or didn't make a complete stop. <br />
<br />
Honestly, the only times I've ever met a police officer face to face was on school field trips, or the time my home was invaded by a young man with a gun. I think they're pretty awesome. Sure, I haven't had one trailing me in his patrol car yet. At I certainly haven't met one with a bad attitude yet. They're humans, just like us. They have faults, they have families, they have bills to pay, and personal problems. But there are still a good deal of them who are honest, and this one in particular has a very big heart. <br />
<br />
I am very pleased to bring into the spotlight, and document on my blog, this one particular policeman who understood that his job is not just to chase down the "bad-guys", but the assist the needy. Here is a man, who like Saint Martin, gave part of his own cloak to the freezing beggar, and people made fun of Saint Martin, for walking around with half a robe on his shoulders. But then Christ appeared to the soldier that night, and said, "As you did to the beggar man, so you have done it unto ME."<br />
<br />
Here is a man who is valiant. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/video#video=31244460">Watch the Video</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for visiting, check out my latest updates on FB and follow me there. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0GXxoBTpoOeruPjFOPLXUKJjMN6KBIhItvovg5LLFHlEvhvpO4i23m1nYIHLXMCfg1I9FbDEw90fI8ryAzfMP-sSjA9d4WCcgxDTGvIuBXR1YhDtJTLpuiE8MnJi41ReXuX9RznSiVo/s1600/Officer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0GXxoBTpoOeruPjFOPLXUKJjMN6KBIhItvovg5LLFHlEvhvpO4i23m1nYIHLXMCfg1I9FbDEw90fI8ryAzfMP-sSjA9d4WCcgxDTGvIuBXR1YhDtJTLpuiE8MnJi41ReXuX9RznSiVo/s640/Officer.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
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Here is another photo, ....that inspires me.</div>
<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-5170197555283746332012-11-11T16:27:00.001-06:002012-11-11T16:28:27.894-06:00Thoughts on Narnia<h2>
Warning, this is a Ramble Post</h2>
<br />
I recently and very unexpectedly sold the Simba portrait, an early pyrographic piece to a lady from out West. She said it was a special gift for a special grandchild of hers. I don't normally throw goodies in the bag when shipping, but I guess inspiration struck- something possessed me to write a poem. Here it is:<br />
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<br /><br />The Lion is the King of Beasts, his only fear is fire. <br />His eyes are embers burning, <br />his gaze, stronger than his jaws. <br />May you have a lion heart, <br />be courageous, know no fear. <br />Do not roar when you are angry, be not lazy, Simba dear.<br /><br /><div>
- Phoenix Pyrocreations Pyrography (L.H. Borlovan)<br /><br /><br />I haven't written a poem in literally... over two years now. And when inspiration did strike two weeks ago.... a very rough... pathetic, unfinished version still lies on a piece of lined notebook paper in a pile at my headboard. <br /><br /><br />My sale was of a lion. My current commission is of an eagle- which leads to my next subject. Griffins.... Gryphons..... I am starting to prefer the latter spelling. I love Lions, and I love Eagles, so you can correctly assume that I am totally fascinated with Gryphons. Often I have people look at me oddly and say, "What's your hangup with a mythological creature?" <br /><br /><br />I don't think there is anything wrong with the image. After all, the two beasts meshed into one represent something very good in my mind. It is a symbol, a representation, not an alien or a dinosaur, or some beast of folklore and evil deed. I see the Gryphon as a very heavenly beast, not a dragon-like creature. <br /><br /><br />Which leads me to the subject of the Chronicles of Narnia. I had one cousin express how much he loved the movie and wanted me to see it, so I watched the first, the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe. I couldn't find a really deep Christian meaning in the entire thing, but I was pleased with the film and can appreciate it for what it is. It is something I would care to see again and show others. <br /><br /><br />This past week, while visiting another cousin, I find Prince Caspian on his DVD wall. Goodies, could I help but watch it? I found even less symbolism- easily recognizable allegories and allusions woven into the plot, but again, a perfectly fascinating film. So now, my thoughts. <br /><br /><br />Just want to say, not putting Peter aside, Edmond is my favorite character in the second film. Sure he made his mistakes in the first film, but he is a bundle of fight. Gusty. Gryphon's gall. I can't tell you how many time I was shouting, "Go Edmond!" From when he shattered the white witch's ice image to running to help Peter. His character... is like ...my alter-ego. He knows no fear. <br /><br /><br />So lion-hearts aside, I just don't understand why the Gryphon has such a small part in every Narnia film. I was totally flighted by the fantastic Gryphon invasion of the second film. Epic. And so...as you can imagine, I may be burning the creature in the near future. I aim to anyway. The Lion and the Eagle... they just fit. <br />
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Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-69564724969094563752012-10-29T19:10:00.002-05:002012-10-29T19:12:51.828-05:00And the Smoke ClearsSo I entered my work in the Mobile Country Greater Gulf State Fair for the first time, and Saturday took the morning to go to the fairgrounds and enjoy the bird show until they opened up for 4H exhibit. I gathered some interesting photos along the way I thought I would share. <br />
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Check out this skinny dude. The Cochins, Dutch Games, and Bantams made up the majority of the bird show, and seem to be more popular among hobbyists. They are adorable and fiesty, but far too impractical for me. </div>
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I took some reference photos at the heifer show. I love the natural beauty of a cow. </div>
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This set-up was for contestants to pose in front of with their animal and have their picture taken. </div>
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Calves for auction. The black calf kept running and hiding behind his friend whenever I came up to take a picture. </div>
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And then, when the 4H exhibits finally opened up at noon with the rides, I meandered in and was completely surprised to find my work on display, with three ribbons attached. Wow-zer! </div>
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At the other end of the exhibit were more unique pieces of art. I took pictures of my favorites.</div>
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This wicker peak cock for example...</div>
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Sure it won first because it was the ONLY wicker creation, but I think it deserved 1st even with competition. This was cool.</div>
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Somebody local carves some amazing walking sticks as well.</div>
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And canning...</div>
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And the pumpkins (oops, spelled Pimpkins there... haha, that gives me an idea for next year's pumpkin...I might actually enter one.) So really, the turkey got second, and the pig got second, the but the Angry bird deserved as much as the pig. See, those judges stuck up for the pigs.</div>
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Now that is a PIMP-kin. ANGRY BIRDS!!</div>
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I thought this was totally ingenuitive though. Definitely deserved 1st.</div>
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A favorite photograph that well deserved the ribbon. I have actually seen this homeless man in my area so the picture strikes home even harder.</div>
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And there I am. Shocked, but proud too. I am eager to do it again next year. Entering was easy, but next year I am going to try for the fine arts exhibit. Competition will be tough, but the prizes are better too. </div>
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Thanks for checking in with me. I am beginning an eagle commission this week so follow along on FB for quick updates. Feel free to write or comment,</div>
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<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-33569283998252915722012-10-25T17:57:00.001-05:002012-10-25T17:57:43.982-05:00Hi Everyone,<br />
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I thought I would take the time to share something I've found. As you may know I have been running around trying to figure out how to make prints of my work. Where to start?! This link proved to be very helpful. Unfortunately, it has not told me how to make a digital file for the work, but it is very informative. Take a look:<br />
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<a href="http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=382489">http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=382489</a>Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-80950380054964382352012-10-22T18:05:00.001-05:002012-10-22T18:05:35.990-05:00Local Fair<br />
I've never entered a real art contest before, let alone a fair so this month has held a world of new experiences for me. I was worried I would have to attach hangars to the back of my wood pieces- which I don't want to do until after I make prints of them- so there was a lot of pressure on me as the deadline drew close.<br />
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Every night after work I'd hasten to the table and spend most of the night burning. I was getting...burned out. No kidding. But when I went to the fairgrounds, they assured me that the hanging was all taken care of. So that was a huge relief. <br />
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Jazz is the Color is my latest burning, which I will have photographs of when they are released from the fair exhibition in two weeks. The Saxophone burning features a tenor Sax against a double bass. Lovely! Can't wait to show you the completed pictures. I also have more burn videos coming up so stay tuned for some embedded clips. <br />
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In the meantime, visit my facebook profile and page to keep up with the every-day details. <br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/phoenixpyrocreations.pyrography">https://www.facebook.com/phoenixpyrocreations.pyrography</a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by,<br />
Feel free to give me help and suggestions,<br />
I am still looking around for a print-shop that suits my needs. Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-63070846750962171692012-10-06T14:11:00.002-05:002012-10-06T14:11:37.768-05:00All That Jazz!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielweJfJliPWLo4PyLHwg0TARpkeZsZl42hVZ6GM1f4ymrllZhPbkK8wMVdyhsgL_CXTc_aK1738QUMNkXgrl9FurMsqRNLJzaEDdrKJaJWwp4cowiLNdXRUqtNGE6KHmvTYn3TV_ep-Q/s1600/Random+pics+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielweJfJliPWLo4PyLHwg0TARpkeZsZl42hVZ6GM1f4ymrllZhPbkK8wMVdyhsgL_CXTc_aK1738QUMNkXgrl9FurMsqRNLJzaEDdrKJaJWwp4cowiLNdXRUqtNGE6KHmvTYn3TV_ep-Q/s320/Random+pics+024.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
It has been a while since I've posted last. Apart from cutting my wood into all the wrong shapes and sizes (I had forgotten that I was going to burn a set of chess portraits), it took fresh inspiration a while to juice on through. <br />
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Then I remembered that I had also wanted to do something...musical. And I needed two instruments that would compliment each other, both in their sounds, as well as their composition, layout, and textures. <br />
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So I went with the brassy, metallic woodwind (a Tenor Saxophone), and what I had originally hoped to be a cello, ended up being a double bass. <br />
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So far, the burn has been going slowly. First step is to do a wash-coat sort of burn for the double bass and add the highlights and textures later. I love how the wood grain runs with the double-bass so perfectly. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyzueKeGKyY2jwEh2Yh5jB7CVLqAXi9ySZdakF2bhYocjZBMGuVQL1Ihak16Y-3E5Pmjk2JlOLzRghymFDeLNOcTKbQs7JpledxfDl7QeQ7wbYSWzyOrnVvZJLh492Xx5iva64-4-G6k/s1600/selling+photos+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyzueKeGKyY2jwEh2Yh5jB7CVLqAXi9ySZdakF2bhYocjZBMGuVQL1Ihak16Y-3E5Pmjk2JlOLzRghymFDeLNOcTKbQs7JpledxfDl7QeQ7wbYSWzyOrnVvZJLh492Xx5iva64-4-G6k/s400/selling+photos+040.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
It gives it such a nice wood grain burn. I hope to use two different oils when this piece is finished to bring out the yellow in the sax, and some reds in the double bass. <br />
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This birch ply is so much fun to work with, and I am carefully planning out my future pieces to offer prints of. It will be an exciting month, when I receive my first framed prints to sell!!!<br />
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As always, you can get more updates and the in-depth scoop by finding me on Facebook @ Phoenix Pyrocreations Pyrography. <br />
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Also, check out the Piano Guy's latest video!! Titanium/Pavane!! It is hauntingly beautiful. If you haven't already heard of the piano guys, look them up and subscribe. You'll wish you had known about them a year ago.<br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz4MzJTeL0c">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz4MzJTeL0c</a><br />
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As always, thanks for coming, feel free to leave a comment or write, and check out my Facebook page and profile for more details.<br />
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PhoenixLaurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-46766168847109882082012-08-28T17:50:00.003-05:002012-08-28T17:50:58.752-05:00The Far Side Friends!! Here we have the completion of my Lunar Landscape!! A Kaleidoscopic view of space, from the far side of the Moon. No atmosphere or light interferes on the dark-side, giving the viewer, a rather Divine perspective. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEOWyUVKyRPZ1ZFKpc1qO0UARNs2XmTTOp8OJajZVOB6AKHMIP3_DiigsQGU8UhgO410fsB9_UAzXif63VAsAZ_cRaOarrycaTL6HaWxLZxXHA9xG3EVAH5IiwrTfcKbE9tayxex0LpsQ/s1600/Dark+Side+Lunar+032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEOWyUVKyRPZ1ZFKpc1qO0UARNs2XmTTOp8OJajZVOB6AKHMIP3_DiigsQGU8UhgO410fsB9_UAzXif63VAsAZ_cRaOarrycaTL6HaWxLZxXHA9xG3EVAH5IiwrTfcKbE9tayxex0LpsQ/s640/Dark+Side+Lunar+032.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As before stated, there are numerous hidden images in this wood-piece. I welcome any feedback from anyone who thinks that they see what they may or may not see. In person, this stunning piece is best viewed from a distance. But as one steps closer, all those galaxies, planets, and stars separate and become a lovely medley of colors. The pearl in ever speck of stardust gives it a brilliance the camera, sadly, cannot capture. I hesitate to part with this work. I hope to offer it in print very soon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhta0NvPaRcIZosmDdQKBplnniet2W0iYAaUchjELcBq73ZTeAv5YVDcwaz5qtdr24ZYDcAII8fIOoqMp3Httq6BoRJfTfVB2rNLGK-LlzruJ0oPm44mfFcFEMquNky16ZZJY9AnHtyH0c/s1600/Dark+Side+Lunar+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhta0NvPaRcIZosmDdQKBplnniet2W0iYAaUchjELcBq73ZTeAv5YVDcwaz5qtdr24ZYDcAII8fIOoqMp3Httq6BoRJfTfVB2rNLGK-LlzruJ0oPm44mfFcFEMquNky16ZZJY9AnHtyH0c/s320/Dark+Side+Lunar+037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thanks for stopping by. Please leave a comment and follow me on FB!!</div>
<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-82082514859467516182012-08-24T17:59:00.001-05:002012-08-24T17:59:29.754-05:00Galactic Lunar Landscape<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_w1gZm-Gr2idQSgniwelaecQzyid8c_XG2FFUp97mGAoCj2Q-DuIrLnpwxE-GjKEQ1FJZrfL_kKt4L58ibHENSDsPV-NTPnmQymf3eWtrgdLFQjWqUhIKO-rKjIiR_WVD5RviRXhH-dan/s1600/August+2012+363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_w1gZm-Gr2idQSgniwelaecQzyid8c_XG2FFUp97mGAoCj2Q-DuIrLnpwxE-GjKEQ1FJZrfL_kKt4L58ibHENSDsPV-NTPnmQymf3eWtrgdLFQjWqUhIKO-rKjIiR_WVD5RviRXhH-dan/s320/August+2012+363.jpg" width="246" /></a> I have let the Cowboy at the Cross portrait sit repeatedly so as to spot any problem areas that need touching up. Overall it is a pleasant piece that I must be proud of. All of my pieces are stepping stones to something better. It is a learning process.<br />
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I would be so happy for some constructive criticism on this piece.<br />
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Then I was inspired to do a moon-landscape. I wondered what the dark-side of the moon looks like. I considered how the sky from any object without an atmosphere might look. And I was led to create this piece- a rather dramatic burning.<br />
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This work came entirely from the heart. No reference photographs and very abstract, random pen-strokes. I let the heart take my hand and go with it where it willed. And the results were astonishing. This is probably as abstract as I'll ever go, though I truly love illusions. I also took the liberty to hide many images in this piece. I will not divulge the images hidden or their location. But most of the images can already be found in the night sky.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2FJCrf_oqXsAo0EDEsaPRsrJfJWluL0w1xi4OLAReKDS_C4g3m7dfU7aaOg1tA4hj314d1Zr4Dxh8tHP15jHhowFuZgnupzWP4tiMCG4F5jCx4SnoPrLEUq8xEXqFWKxGhipFWiMHrBz/s1600/August+2012+357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm2FJCrf_oqXsAo0EDEsaPRsrJfJWluL0w1xi4OLAReKDS_C4g3m7dfU7aaOg1tA4hj314d1Zr4Dxh8tHP15jHhowFuZgnupzWP4tiMCG4F5jCx4SnoPrLEUq8xEXqFWKxGhipFWiMHrBz/s320/August+2012+357.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Working on the moon craters, adding texture. Establishing the nebulae and layout of Milky Way. Also added three planets and a cluster of galaxies.<br />
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Completion pictures will be posted soon. I aim to make prints of this work. And hope to do more astronomy pictures, as well as some astrology works. </div>
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-76793088156486983592012-07-28T13:57:00.001-05:002012-07-28T13:57:13.724-05:00"Let Mama Do It" Hatching Chicks The Old Fashioned Way<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello everyone, it has been a while since my last posting. But this post is well worth the wait. My chicken hobby was just taken to the next level when I let my lil' Babette sit on six eggs. After 20 days of....patience...and waiting...and thumb twiddling... well, the pictures and video say it all. I wont be doing a how-to on raising chicks since there is plenty of information on-line. But I will say, for those of you interested who came across this, that my hen was not separated from other hens (she was still in the hen-house, just locked away in a dog-cage with a cat-carrier inside)-... ironic, I know) and when the chicks hatched, the other residents did not bother them much at all. Also, mother hen prefers scratch to chick feed from Tractor Supply, but I keep the chick feed for rainy days when they cannot get out to scratch. </div>
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So, feel free to ask questions through email or comments below. I will answer directly and quickly. And please enjoy my video. </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/eRlS-o-j9vs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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And if you want a day filled with cuteness, here are some still-frames to lift your spirits. </div>
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<br /></div>Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-15739095158043560402012-06-30T14:52:00.000-05:002012-06-30T14:53:17.723-05:00Cujo Commission Complete!!<br />
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At last, the adorable Chihuahua pooch is complete!! And I am very pleased with the results. <br />
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One mistake I will remember not to make again, is to oil-color the wood before applying wood oils. (DO it after!) The oils washed away all the white highlights so that I had to re highlight the picture. <br />
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I loved what the oils did for the wood, (and was surprised what it did for an ordinary basswood round) and hope to use it on many future pieces.<br />
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So here is beloved Cujo!! My second dog portrait ever...and one I feel I can be right proud of. I am always willing to take commissions...but I feel the urge to do a nice chess board soon. This project has been years in my head...so I don't know where I'll find the perfect piece of wood for it, or when I'll get my hands on it. <br />
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If you can, follow me on Facebook and don't forget to look around my Etsy shop Licksoffire for current sale items. Thanks for visiting. Please leave a comment!<br />
<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-50785271288992469072012-05-19T17:51:00.001-05:002012-05-19T17:51:19.423-05:00Cujo, the Chihuahua Commission So with the 1 hours of me time I get at the end of work every week-day evening, I sat down and spent a little time sketching this Cujo. It obviously wasn't an easy job since I had only the photograph on the left to go by and I am no good at drawing dogs...and I've never succeed in drawing any canine before or a chihuahua at that... the very word chihuahua is hard enough to spell!!<br />
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But...I think I got somewhere in that hour. : ) I plan on enlarging my sketch before transferring it to the wood I selected. <br />
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At first I doubted the way I was spelling this pooch's name... Cujo...what an odd name. So I began googling the name and found exactly where Cujo's owners came up with the idea. Cujo is the name of a Rabid St. Bernard in a Steven Spielberg Horror Flick Film. Interesting comparison...the title Cujo to a chihuahua. I have heard that these little dogs have devils in them. But I was told that this Cujo was the sweetest natured little dog ever. I tried to capture that in my sketch and I hope I did that well. <br />
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So with what time I have in the evenings these days this commission may take part of my summer. But I have a feeling I will have a lot of fun and adventures with this wood-piece. Growing excited.<br />
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I am starting to make more and more burn videos and set them to music. I don't have a program for making movies so I can't...you know, put it in fast-forward for cool effect but I do what I can. It makes it entertaining. Hope to do more of that soon so check up with me on Facebook, keep in touch, and please comment!!<br />
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The artist<br />
<br />Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-61785912799777661062012-04-28T15:12:00.001-05:002012-04-28T15:12:52.842-05:00Rock and Roe! My Phlebotomy Certification finally came in the mail!! So I am one proud Phlebotomy Tech....or mosquito. In celebration....I decided to spoil myself, and bought myself something I have wanted ever since I was a little girl. <br />
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Cowgirl boots!! These are my Rockys!! I was told by an old friend that Justin was the most comfortable, and perhaps he was right...but I couldn't find any Justin boots that were to my taste. When I first saw these on the back page of my Western Horseman issue, I instantly fell in love. These are me!!<br />
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I was so thankful to get them at a sweet closeout price...and I'm also glad they still had my size. Because...the new boots Rocky is making for women... I definitely DO NOT like. If any of you out there are curious, these boots are very comfortable, and they fit my feet well- I wear 7 and 1/2. They are so stylish and I just don't want to take them off!!<br />
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Now, on to business... I have finally, finished Roe!! And he turned out well. The oil colors really helped. This was by far the most tedious, drawn out work I've ever accomplished...but I believe the dreary winter blues sent me into a little depression that just kept me from wanting to spend time burning. It was definitely slow going. <br />
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My client tells me she has another dog she wants burned...I may have mentioned this, Cujo. So, stayed tuned for a Chihuahua burning!! Thanks for stopping by, check out my facebook!!</div>
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<br /></div>Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-63053717473433289122012-04-15T17:56:00.000-05:002012-04-15T17:56:08.999-05:00Update on Roe: The Horse Commission<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdL1al0R8EWSvm3ZVV5_LE5QHxtGNlz6uAtPXoEh9LG3MN2HwdZFJ2yaU1gRKh4uZuVspkBEEiiWYdpKhFWOYBVmge2gA0-g4YhPi57iV6Tjxjngw5iYE1zFRyL070DE5nHGTSEsYOFC4/s1600/Roe+Update+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdL1al0R8EWSvm3ZVV5_LE5QHxtGNlz6uAtPXoEh9LG3MN2HwdZFJ2yaU1gRKh4uZuVspkBEEiiWYdpKhFWOYBVmge2gA0-g4YhPi57iV6Tjxjngw5iYE1zFRyL070DE5nHGTSEsYOFC4/s320/Roe+Update+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Right.... so, even though I rotated this picture, the upload isn't going to co-operate. Well, then this is a pathetic flop of a post! Because this picture isn't even the most recent picture of the work. <br />
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Well, this kind of sums up how life has been going for me. This portrait has been a struggle, and only because basswood rounds take much longer to burn because of the way the wood-fibers go.<br />
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Despite this and my lack of patience, Roe, the horse seems to be turning out well. This commission is for my music instructor. It is of her horse, who passed away 25 years ago in May. It is a very special piece for her because Roe stole her heart. <br />
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After I complete Roe I will be burning a dog, named Cujo. I have never met Cujo, he passed away recently, and took part of his master's heart with him. I never imagined I'd do so many Posthumous pet portraits, but I am very humbled to know that this portrait of Roe even in the unfinished stages, has touched my client. <br />
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Apart from Pyrography, here is a link to an awesome song that I will be attempting to play on my panflute. I have been working so hard at my music lately, and I give thanks for my renewed passion for my music, to Jon Schmidt and Steven Nelson (The Piano Guys) and their youtube videos. I hope to make a few recording soon enough but I have no means to do this. <br />
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So, if you're in the mood for it, take a gander at this link. <br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Uu-PdK6-oU&feature=my_liked_videos&list=LLrYiuvF8XI3br8N1nPVn0DQ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Uu-PdK6-oU&feature=my_liked_videos&list=LLrYiuvF8XI3br8N1nPVn0DQ</a> <br />
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Thanks for stopping by, please come by again soon. Don't forget to drop a comment, or check out what I"m up to on Facebook!Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-50350690651732187792012-03-30T08:52:00.001-05:002012-03-30T08:53:00.204-05:00Sgt. Dennis Weichel 2012 I am not fond of sad stories... but this is a story that should have as much exposure if not more than of the soldier that went on a shooting rampage- I haven't even followed that story honestly. <br />
<div><br />
</div><div> I could sit here and babble about this hero's wife, and the children he's left behind... but I feel he wouldn't want that. Instead, take the time you would have spent reading my babbling...and have a moment of prayer for them. And if you cannot feel to pray for them, pray and thank God for men such as this man.<br />
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.....And watch the link for the story:<br />
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<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/video/us-15749625/us-soldier-gives-his-life-to-save-afghan-girl-28773324.html">http://news.yahoo.com/video/us-15749625/us-soldier-gives-his-life-to-save-afghan-girl-28773324.html</a><br />
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I couldn't embed the video like I wanted to. </div>Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-77473931762312496082012-03-14T11:23:00.000-05:002012-03-14T11:23:23.610-05:00Harney Peak Eagles Commission Complete I am thrilled to announce that I have shipped off my latest commission as well as my first burned piece, the Canada Goose portrait. My latest and my first, all in one order....wow. It's a little sorrowful, letting go of my creations so quickly... but at least they will stay in good hands for many years. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6X77y7SmLTfiZb1mTh2mHdIN-rn1l-suINQJVtroJBysOMdgF6LLZWducgpYGNR4KjSmnHq04LjxvVC8f3DzM6XALeoP-I7Ta-nJiX26sdYi3qKasEA8QVkXmlYe2XrWf2WJFoCRBM9c/s1600/March+Phlebotomy+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6X77y7SmLTfiZb1mTh2mHdIN-rn1l-suINQJVtroJBysOMdgF6LLZWducgpYGNR4KjSmnHq04LjxvVC8f3DzM6XALeoP-I7Ta-nJiX26sdYi3qKasEA8QVkXmlYe2XrWf2WJFoCRBM9c/s640/March+Phlebotomy+024.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhecVRyDP9nJwDZdZk6nCv92lqfY3J5HLkSgjKDXydhffVUhAHNUdNDGvGxbbvxEvi6xJX1TV9Gp44AuHosN-fS5ZB88wuvBMPOXB8jPhOdmDeDGXsUPdc3SK9e8WiRDc01tnxQmN8WlF0/s1600/March+Phlebotomy+034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhecVRyDP9nJwDZdZk6nCv92lqfY3J5HLkSgjKDXydhffVUhAHNUdNDGvGxbbvxEvi6xJX1TV9Gp44AuHosN-fS5ZB88wuvBMPOXB8jPhOdmDeDGXsUPdc3SK9e8WiRDc01tnxQmN8WlF0/s640/March+Phlebotomy+034.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Picassa is doing wonders for my photography. I still don't have a good camera, but these pictures turned out nicely- and that is important to me because it is all I have left of my burning!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have been busy with a medical course, but I still squeeze time to burn in there every few days and I have more projects lined up!! So check out what I'm up to next on Facebook and subscribe!!</div>Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-15759951002670751382012-02-28T13:08:00.001-06:002012-02-28T13:08:34.222-06:00The Piano GuysHI Everyone,<br />
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This is a different sort of post. I will link you to some amazing music!! Recently, a friend and I were chatting away on Facebook and she shot me a link to a you tube video. When I watched it I didn't hesitate to subscribe to the channel. And now, I am going to share it with you!!<br />
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I am a super big fan of the Piano Guys!! Jon Schmidt and Steven Sharp Nelson (name?) from St. George, Utah. Jon Schmidt performs on the piano, and Mr. Steven on the Cello. The two have only been at their you tube videos for just under 6-8 months and already have a big following. I only wish I could have found them when their following wasn't so large, but I am here to make it bigger!!<br />
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I won't say another word about it because now it is up to you to explore the links below to their channels. Here is Jon Schmidt's personal channel: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/carlosian2">http://www.youtube.com/user/carlosian2</a><br />
He has a wonderful variety of music there.<br />
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And here is the official Piano Guy's channel: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/ThePianoGuys">http://www.youtube.com/user/ThePianoGuys</a><br />
Which will in turn take you to the official Piano Guy's website and other sources. Check these guy's out and if you like them- which you will, give them your support. <br />
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That is all fellow artists,<br />
Get watching those videos!!<br />
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BTW- their music is playing on this blog now. ;)Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-9845612509947997842012-02-23T11:06:00.000-06:002012-02-23T11:06:37.667-06:00Commissions Lined Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I have commissions lined up and one has a special deadline. May I introduce the Harney Peak Eagles- being burned in time for March 21st for a special anniversary. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z0CYrIh9VNB430dmC0ugZKqkoGT5W2TZ4Hd6qEeFDenQB0S13_jTzPea7VDRE0bXRDe8IAC1ym1U-R9_QJp3SPJSmtEA9rUKaE9IRWKxC9uiuqEqLQi-E7WQx1tNATYw2pItL6eHkaU/s1600/Harney+Peak+Commission+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z0CYrIh9VNB430dmC0ugZKqkoGT5W2TZ4Hd6qEeFDenQB0S13_jTzPea7VDRE0bXRDe8IAC1ym1U-R9_QJp3SPJSmtEA9rUKaE9IRWKxC9uiuqEqLQi-E7WQx1tNATYw2pItL6eHkaU/s320/Harney+Peak+Commission+007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> This gorgeous piece is of two eagles - talons locked, sailing above the granite needles of Harney Peak in South Dakota, the home of Mt. Rushmore. <br />
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I debated weather or not to put the historic fire tower in this picture, but the granite needles seemed a much more dramatic effect than the layout the rocks around the tower presented. There was too much depth and scope to be captured, a lot of foreground and a sea of background.<br />
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The sharp needles however...seem to do this picture wonders and I am very excited to be burning it.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBky-gRUat5snZoyV5RLhZdnE3ferO7ijPtAB7E5BB9hph-pA3RJ3aUoujP9sfVXL-C9mTkkP9M13zA6aCp7Ic1j9vXG-jv2YRnztejNIvVIiU4k2yp4Bi3gXj79z9_1DolLSrN8lR1bk/s1600/Harney+Peak+Commission+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBky-gRUat5snZoyV5RLhZdnE3ferO7ijPtAB7E5BB9hph-pA3RJ3aUoujP9sfVXL-C9mTkkP9M13zA6aCp7Ic1j9vXG-jv2YRnztejNIvVIiU4k2yp4Bi3gXj79z9_1DolLSrN8lR1bk/s400/Harney+Peak+Commission+011.jpg" width="300" /></a>After this one I have a horse commission and then if nothing else shows up at my steps, I'll go back to the cowboy portrait and a nifty little piece of leather I have planned out to burn. <br />
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I am eager to try out leather burning!!<br />
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Am hoping to turn out some cartoon portraits soon, but my sense of humor isn't...well... I've never been able to put it on paper, pen it, or re-create it in any fashion. It just comes out, makes the room laugh...and then it's gone. sighs, oh well. <br />
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Thanks for stopping by,<br />
Remember to find me on Facebook and commentLaurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7608145806542836854.post-91723164532141988202012-02-10T11:55:00.000-06:002012-02-10T11:55:12.854-06:00Updates is What This Blog is ALL AboutPage views have really been down, but then, Facebook is like THE internet for a lot of people now. I haven't had much time for blogging, but if I may be allowed to ramble for a few minutes I'll just say that:<br />
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Jaw Surgery didn't put me behind or out of the mood. I healed up quickly, swelling went down super-fast, it was the easiest thing I ever did - totally easier than having wisdom teeth removed. And apart from still being on a broken jaw diet, it's not all that bad. I can do things like blend up my turkey breast dinner and scarf it down with mash potatoes quicker than anyone else because they have to chew it and I don't!! I may post a Jaw surgery post in a few days here for those of you looking into Jaw surgery to help encourage you about the path ahead. I know my life story has always been to handle sickness, injury, and surgery better than everyone else (I always do) but I know there are other people out there who don't and wont swell nearly as bad as I did even and who probably handle pain even better than I do. So I will proceed to encourage. It was easy. Is easy.<br />
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My Big boy, Wyatt, a beautiful Easter Egger rooster, passed away in my arms the other day after battling a fowl illness called Coccidosis. It took him rather quickly and I am very sad that he is gone. I put the flowers the orthodontist and oral surgeon gave me on his grave. This has kept me out of the burning mood.<br />
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And on Wednesday I went down to pay tribute to a fallen police officer, a man who was killed in action, Officer Steven Green of the Mobile Police Department. The motorcade procession was impressive for such a sombre time and included sqad cards and officers from surrounding states and counties!!! I would estimate the procession included 150 motorcycles, several ambulances, firetrucks, Marine police, Airport security, state troopers, Judges, lawyers, state representatives, the mayor, K-9 units, and retired military, not to mention the large group of family, and the wide circle of friends, and then his lovely wife, all mourning the loss of their hero. I stood there at attention with my hand on my heart for just over 40 minutes until the last vehicle passed. It was quite a procession and one he well deserved. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKc3wERHu8NK35H9eorx5QdT9TzGyPNx0KaHjXxtWWMHEisvs7VSgCABT6ZCHUn8mfBFy1m44g4ABwGGzi0APHm9rqFrbdgb00OjdPpKyjDxNyE7iCFrFpkeT2BF-vFO6duwTFtxxWPbo/s1600/100_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKc3wERHu8NK35H9eorx5QdT9TzGyPNx0KaHjXxtWWMHEisvs7VSgCABT6ZCHUn8mfBFy1m44g4ABwGGzi0APHm9rqFrbdgb00OjdPpKyjDxNyE7iCFrFpkeT2BF-vFO6duwTFtxxWPbo/s400/100_0017.jpg" width="400" /></a>Now, on to pyrography!! Yet another client commission is out of the way and I have continued burning the Cowboy portrait. However, sadly, my camera is not taking good pictures of my work no matter what lighting and backdrop I try, so bear with me. These are the best representations of my work at this time. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28HQyWYvi6HYdguYsyWnTy5JvOxkmUtOp1VlJ-I6-4poni8aQmwxT0F8LdevA5ALDkmgHwEDi2hhQ8zW7eU9d8oUOGDnzfN__SMgxDOLcZRoBiO4j_2dMT5JvKjoGFDNndBN687qclss/s1600/100_0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28HQyWYvi6HYdguYsyWnTy5JvOxkmUtOp1VlJ-I6-4poni8aQmwxT0F8LdevA5ALDkmgHwEDi2hhQ8zW7eU9d8oUOGDnzfN__SMgxDOLcZRoBiO4j_2dMT5JvKjoGFDNndBN687qclss/s640/100_0036.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
There is more burn present than what met the camera's eye. I am about to kill the family camera. Or...I am apparently, no photographer!!<br />
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Thanks for dropping by!! Please leave comments,Laurisa Brandthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16021192639589976224noreply@blogger.com0