Sunday, February 22, 2009

Solomon's Castle in Florida






While in Florida this past week, my husband, son and mother-in-law visited Solomon's Castle. This castle was built by an artist who has also covered the grounds and interior with unique metal sculptures. He recycles anything he can think of and incorporates it into his art. He has a boat on the site that is now a restaurant. He constantly creates with metal, stained glass and many other items. This is a large scale example of what my husband loves to do with metal. Maybe some of the things have inspired him. I expect a new sculpture in our yard this summer!
If you are ever in north Florida, check it out. The website is www.solomonscastle.org



Sunday, February 15, 2009

A Whack on the Side of the Head

A Whack on the Side of the Head...How you can be more creative!

I borrowed this book from a teaching assistant at the school where I work. I have only read the first chapter so far, but it is a very interesting and motivating book! It actually has exercises to try to challenge your creativity. It fits with my rule of only reading non-fiction books. I find that fiction books bore me and I can never seem to finish one. I think it has something to do with the fact that I am "wasting" time reading a story when I could be reading something full of knowledge or a how-to book. Since my husband and son are away for the week, I may actually be able to read this whole book. Then, maybe my creative juices will be flowing and I will start a project that I haven't yet thought of! I have a few projects underway from past creative moments...maybe I should follow through on those as well! I'm going to read more of it with my morning coffee.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Happy Valentine's Day!





I looked through my pictures and found some with hearts just to say Happy Valentine's Day!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

AJ's Lizards

Fonzie the Veiled Chameleon

Tiger and Lilly the Bearded Dragons
AJ currently has a total of 21 reptiles and amphibians in his mini-herp zoo. Fonzie is his veiled chameleon. Our uncle owned Fonzie but left him to AJ when he passed away, knowing he would be going to a good home. Tiger and Lilly were originally rescued bearded dragons. They were taken in by a friend's daughter from a pet store. When she could no longer care for them she gave them to AJ knowing they would have a good home. Lilly is the lizard on top of Tiger. She is showing her only good limb. She is missing 3 legs and her tail. She was attacked by other lizards when she was a baby. They are both doing well and have grown a lot. I will add more of his pets in future posts. AJ is planning to become a herpetologist...one who studies reptiles and amphibians. He has had this interest since he was about 6 years old. He would like to own his own reptile and amphibian zoo in the future. His goal is to have as many species as possible representing as many countries as possible in his zoo.