Aspen Trunks

We passed closely by some aspen groves and I always enjoy the texture of them and the pattern they make.  In some respects they are more interesting with the addition of sunshine which adds some shadow and dimension but the sun must have been visiting Arizona.  I was happy to be able to just keep moving forward.

Lone Tree

Although we traveled through quite a bit of national forest land where there were lots of trees (immensely beautiful in the fall when the foliage changes to brilliant yellow) there are sometimes trees standing by themselves.

Road Closed

Fortunately this red and white "road closed" arm did not block our way as we traveled last week.  But it's also reassuring to know that if conditions are bad enough, traffic can be stopped both directions at two different locations which keeps us all safe.  Of course, I'd like to believe that we are cognizant of weather conditions before before we leave home and will cancel if those conditions warrant.  But, on the other hand, sometimes those storms move in pretty quickly.  From this location it's a rather good climb in altitude before dropping down again and the snow is usually thicker in the higher altitudes.  It's good to know that someone is looking after me and preventing bad situations.  

This photos shows a small portion of the 17,000 acreage owned by Ralph Lauren located between Ridgway and Telluride.  He named it the Double RL Ranch and because a road for national forest access goes through the property, the public can travel through.  In the summer months this portion of the ranch is usually occupied by a herd of cattle.  How often do you suppose Mr. Lauren is actually on this property?!

Tile Card

Look, look, look.  Can you believe it? I actually had some time in my studio today and managed to complete a few cards.

This one is thanks to Alison as it is one of the techniques she presented at stamp club this week.  Cardstock was scored before the image was stamped.  I added color using Distress Inks and then added two layers of clear embossing power which further enhanced the tile look.

I added a gold charm heart and key and gold cord tied into a bow.

Snowy Drive

We traveled south to attend a memorial service this week and drove into a snowstorm.   I wasn't driving so was free to do some "drive-by shooting."  These fenced trees were just past the turnoff to Telluride ski area.  I took the photo because I was inspired by the contrast and lines.

Although the roads became snowpacked and not always sanded, we moved along and enjoyed the trip.

Ladies Time

As a Christmas gift, I planned for myself, my daughter and my granddaughter to each create a necklace.  I wrapped up a kit containing some chain, beads, charms, etc. and also indicated that the gift included a shopping trip so they could pick out other things they wanted to include in their necklace.  Since our "Christmas" trip was cancelled, the gift wasn't opened until early February when we were finally able to be together.

The shopping was fun and they added mostly charms to the collection.  We set aside an evening where we all worked on our projects and we made good progress.  However, it was difficult to schedule another time when we were all available so they were completed individually but they were all done before I had to return home.

Each necklace was unique and personal and very different from the others and it was a fun ladies event.  This is mine.  My necklace is shown.