Let Freedom Ring!

235 Independence Days have come and gone since our founding fathers voted for rebellion. They knew their world was ready for change and were willing to put their lives on the line in order to make that happen. Recommendation: Watch the movie, 1776. Warning to "most" of the guys out there -- it's a musical.
The movie was made in 1972, an era of change in our own lifetime.

What about you? Is there something in your world you feel needs changing? Are you ready to channel your rebellious spirit? And just how much are you willing to risk?

Enjoy your day and remember to give thanks for your ancestors who made freedom a reality!

(Thanks to my friend, Jason, for his artistic talents!)

Afterwords Books - Grand Opening!

On June 1st Afterwords Books in Edwardsville opened their doors to the St. Louis Metro East community. Here's the unique twist -- they trade in previously owned, gently used books available at "wallet pleasing" prices. In these economically trying times what book lover couldn't use that?

The entrepreneur-owner, LuAnn Locke, is eminently qualified. A self-described tenacious bookworm, she has studied poetry, literature, and creative writing on the way to attaining her B.A. in English from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

I felt privileged to be given a pre-opening tour of the redecorated interior. NICE! The atmosphere is warm and comfortable, the kid-centric corner and available changing table are welcome sights to parents, and the book-oriented decor is inspirationally creative. On Tuesdays and Thursdays complimentary tasty treats are offered to customers. Saturday story-time is always a big hit at eleven a.m. (Mom/Dad: post a reminder on your fridge)! And every day they are open is "deal day" since there are always free books in the sidewalk cart. Pinch me! I think I'm in bibliophile heaven!

I know many of you who follow my blog are true animal lovers and rescuers of unfortunate creatures. You should stop by and visit Truman Catpote, the shop's rescue cat. He often sits quietly in the window inviting passersby to enter. He recommends a good book and the relaxation of petting a furry friend to ease the tensions of the work-a-day-world. The staff is wonderful and I'm sure we can all agree that there's nothing better than to be greeted by a smiling face and helpful attitude as you start, plod through, or finish a long day.

Family owned and personal, this shop will undoubtedly be an asset to area book lovers. Visit their blog at http://afterwordsbooks.blogspot.com

Earth Day

April 22nd was the 41st anniversary of Earth Day. Woohooo! This year St. Louis celebrated by holding their 22nd Festival on Sunday, April 17th (held early this year due to Easter conflict). My family gathered in Forest Park on the Muny Grounds to rejoice over another "green" milestone with an estimated 30,000 supporters at the premier event in the Midwest. There was plenty to see and learn with live music, cultural performances, local food, and 300 vendors exhibiting their earth-friendly wares. The statistics collected after the Festival show that St. Louis now ranks as the third largest Earth Day celebration in the nation (following Dallas and New York City). How proud are we?

In the wake of the environmental disasters (Gulf spill, devastation in Japan, tornadoes, wildfires, etc.) education in environmental stewardship and sustainable practices has become paramount. Now it's time to start planning your random acts of green for the spring and summer. Peak your outdoor efforts while the weather cooperates and then perhaps fix your attention on activism. Take to heart the slogans "Earth Day Every Day" and "Be the Change." Make a personal plan, make green moves, and make it happen!

Same place next year on April 22nd. Mark it on your calendar. Come out and join in solidarity with like-minded individuals. See you there!

Best in Show!

Merriment and dancing have commenced here at the studio! Congrats to Lindsey! Her entry, The Princess and the Pea, was awarded "Best in Show" at the Southern Illinois Art League's Spring competition. And yes, there IS a pea at the bottom of those pillows! Our resident Master Photographer, Craftsman, CPP, Assoc. Fellow is truly talented and has mad camera skills. Sure, we're prejudiced, but she certainly proves her photographic abilities time and time again! Lindsey, you rock!

Thanks to our princess-model, Zoe, and her companion, Sylvia Sharockman.

Love Your Pet!

Thanks to our model, Leo Valentine, and his companions, Natalie and Marc Luther.


This is the 7th annual Love Your Pet Day (always held on the 20th of Feb.). It is fitting that it follows closely after Valentine's Day. After all, our furry friends do love us unconditionally. It's a good idea for pet owners to celebrate Love Your Pet Day by doing something special. Pamper your best friend with a new toy or let go of a daily task to give your pet some extra time today. Clean the fish aquarium, hamster, or rabbit cage. Don't forget the many potential pets that wait patiently in rescue shelters. If you don't have a pet this would be a good opportunity to visit your local shelter and perhaps see if a very special companion has been waiting for you. Don't forget that donations of food and litter are always appreciated.