See Ya Later, Alligator

For Mom and Dad.

My parents live right on the water on the Eastern side of Mobile Bay. There's a creek on the neighbor's property that often changes course with shifts in weather, the seasons, and attempts to control it with retaining walls. It has recently developed a pond right near the shore, which is now occupied by at least four alligators. It appears that one is the five-foot-long mother, with the others being smaller, and thus presumably her offspring. Animal control won't come and get them until they demonstrate that are an immediate threat. This is not welcome news for the neighbors with small dogs and children.

Length of feather: 4 1/2"

Day 100: Fin!

Today is the last day of "100 feathers in 100 days."  It's been a pleasure, and even though I will stop the number countdown for now, I plan on keeping up the momentum with new posts every day. This initial push has forced me to paint and write daily, which is just what I needed this summer. Regular, disciplined practice is an necessary habit to develop in every creative art--writing, music, dance, visual art, etc. I'm grateful for all of my friends and family who have continued to read the blog. It has helped me stay on task during this time of transition. More to come. This is just the beginning. Thank you, friends.

Length of feather: 3"

Day 99: Almost There!

100 Days, 100 Feathers: Might. Not. Make. It! Almost There! I think I can! I think I can!

This experience has been really good for me. I do believe that I will keep blogging each day even after this first countdown is completed.

Length of feather: 3"

Day 98: Source

I get most of my feathers from an Alabama peacock farm that is located between Foley and Fairhope. It is a wonderful, magical property that includes all sorts of birds, llamas, alpacas, miniature horses and cows, and goats. There are lovely, old shade trees and rolling green pastures. There is clearly a lot of love for the animals and the property. It is a good place.

So rather than another painted feather today, here are photos of the birds that have provided many of my feathers, along with a few friendly cows and goats. Lots of lovely feathers, indeed!

Day 97: Trio

For Mom, with apologies.

I promised you an aligator for today, but it's the whirlwind of activity has been busier than I anticipated, so our pointy-toothed friend will have to wait a few more days before she comes out to play. Until then, enjoy this simpler feather design, and be careful down by the pond. Cary a big stick and be ready to RUN!

Love,
Elaine


Length of feather: 1 1/2"

Day 96: Chinese Crane

I was surprised by a wonderful e-mail from China this morning. One of my feathers that was purchased at the Starkville Cotton District Arts Festival in April has made its way to the Southeastern part of the People's Republic of China as a gift. In the email, the Liangs share that the crane is a Chinese symbol of longevity, which is especially appreciated by Mr. Liang, who will be turning 60 in August. I am deeply honored by how beautifully they have displayed and photographed the feather.

I do love to connect internationally. My group of friends in school always pulled in the various exchange students; I get a little thrill sending packages internationally (which I do a lot with eBay); I love international travel (which I don't get to do nearly enough); I love experiencing new foods, ideas, customs, and people. I struggle terribly at learning foreign languages, but I somehow still connect easily with friends from other cultures.

I once had a sweet, clunky conversation with a Spanish-speaking cab driver in Puerto Rico, where I managed to mangle my way through saying that all the Spanish I know I learned from Sesame Street. He replied enthusiastically that all the English he could speak was also learned from Sesame Street. Connections don't even need that elementary language level. Just showing up with an open heart is often enough.

Length of feather: about 5"

Day 95: Chick Ball

The Eighth Annual Jackson Free Press Chick Ball is set for July 28th at Hal and Mals. The event is raising funds for a rape crisis center at the Center for Violence Prevention in Pearl, MS. The festivities start at 6PM with live music and a silent auction of donated art, gift certificates, and "men of distinction." To see the complete auction guide, go pick up your copy of the Jackson Free Press or find it on their website. Learn more about the JFP Chick Ball, and come out on Saturday night to have a good time for a good cause.

Length of feather: 14"