Keeping With The Times

living, learning, and keeping with the times

Highway 93A – The Old Banff/Jasper Highway

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Backing up a bit here … rather than taking the Icefields Parkway (HWY 93) to Athabasca Falls, we turned off onto the old Banff/Jasper Highway (HWY 93A), which parallels HWY 93 and ends up at the falls. It was a last minute decision and one we were astounded that we hadn’t considered before. It was spectacular.

If you like to avoid major highways in Jasper National Park for the peaceful meander of a Canadian Rockies backroad, then Highway 93A or “the old highway” is for you. Part of the original Banff/Jasper Highway, it now sees much lighter traffic.

Jasper National Park dot com

It was such an unexpected and delightful drive … we met approximately 2 cars and saw an older couple on bikes …
Highway 93A, Canadian Rockies Getaway, Barb Brookbank, Keeping With the TimesWhen we stopped to take a closer look at a lake peeking through the trees, this is what we were presented with …
Highway 93A, Canadian Rockies Getaway, Barb Brookbank, Keeping With the TimesI haven’t been able to identify the mountains …
Highway 93A
hwy93A_canoe_barbbrookbank-copy
Highway 93A, Canadian Rockies Getaway, Barb Brookbank, Keeping With the Times
Highway 93A, Canadian Rockies Getaway, Barb Brookbank, Keeping With the Times

It was a dull, drizzly day so most of my photos turned out kinda dark … however, I used several actions by Linda Sattgast from the “Fix Photos Fast” class she teaches at Digital Scrapper.

Just a few clicks to adjust exposure, contrast, and shadows/highlights. Two more clicks … one to flatten layers, and one of my own actions to “save for my blog” … done, done, and done!

Thanks for stopping by today!

See Sunwapta Falls and Old Man Mountain for Part VI

Fix Photos Fast! My Experience

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Have you had a chance to check out the class Fix Photos Fast with Actions by Linda Sattgast which I’m offering at a discount price?  If you are at all interested, please don’t wait … I can personally attest to the fact that you will be getting more than your money’s worth, and the offer ends tomorrow night.

Fix Photos Fast with Actions, Keeping With the Times, Actions, Linda Sattgast, Digital Scrapper

Final Image

I used a few of Linda’s Photoshop actions on this peony image to create an invitation for an “imaginary” garden party I plan to hold in July ;) oh wait … I think I’m having a garden party all summer long …

Here’s my original image, straight out of camera:

Fix Photos Fast with Actions, Keeping With the Times, Actions, Linda Sattgast, Digital Scrapper

Original

I played the action “Lighter: Shadows/Highlights-minimum” and with one single click I achieved what I was going for; I wanted to lessen the shadows but I didn’t want to blow out the highlights on the peonies. Ya gotta love these results …

Fix Photos Fast with Actions, Keeping With the Times, Actions, Linda Sattgast, Digital Scrapper

Lighter_Shadows_Highlights-minimum

Then I played “Smart Sharpen-Low” and “Color: Boost” which gave just the right amount of color without being overwhelming. I could have played more using the mask to brush away some color, but I had to stop somewhere! It’s addictive and it could not be easier.

Subtle, but powerful changes:

Fix Photos Fast with Actions, Keeping With the Times, Actions, Linda Sattgast, Digital Scrapper

Lighter: Shadows/Highlights-minimum, Smart Sharpen-Low, Color: Boost

The class comes with a money back guarantee so you simply cannot lose … .

Click here to find out more about this class.

Thank you for dropping by and have a wonderful weekend!!

Layer Mask Basics Free Tutorial

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If you like adding artistic effects to your photos, I have the perfect short (approximately 6 minute) Layer Mask Basics how-to video for you.

For the Photoshop version, click here. For the Photoshop Elements version, click here.

You’ll learn how to blend a photo of an old wooden clipboard with an ordinary photo to create extraordinary results!

Start with a photo like this cute kitty sitting on a column.
Layer Mask Basics Free Tutorial

Add a photo of an old wooden clipboard above the kitty.

Layer Mask Basics Free TutorialLayer Mask Basics Free Tutorial

Change the blend mode of the clipboard layer and use a layer mask to put the slightly grungy effect exactly where you want it.

Layer Mask Basics Free Tutorial

This tutorial is especially helpful for anyone who doesn’t really understand how to use layer masks or why they’re even useful in the first place. The instructor, Linda Sattgast, says, “I use layer masks all the time when fixing or enhancing photos. It’s one of my most often used tools!”

Linda is the instructor for the Fix Photos FAST class I’m offering, so if you’re wondering whether you should take her class, this is a great way to see how she teaches.

Now through Saturday, June 27, 2015, I’m offering a discount on the Fix Photos FAST class. Click here to see my original post, and to get all the details.

Please don’t wait! This is an amazing class at an incredibly low price, and I can hardly believe Linda offers it at such a discount!

Again, for the Layer Masks Basics how-to video, Photoshop version click here. For the Photoshop Elements version, click here.

Fix Photos Fast with Actions

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Actions: Fix Photos Fast! Header
As a new affiliate with Digital Scrapper, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to offer the class “Fix Photos Fast with Actions” by Linda Sattgast, at a discount price!

But first, a little background information … I joined Digital Scrapper in March of 2009, and it has to have been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’d just purchased a copy of Photoshop Elements 4 which included the “Learn Digital Scrapbooking” CD by Linda Sattgast. Linda’s teaching style is friendly, clear, and concise, and 95% of what I know about Photoshop and scrapbooking I found at Digital Scrapper. Amazingly, I went from learning Photoshop to teaching Photoshop! True story!

What if you don’t scrapbook? I say … no matter … we all use photos! We have them in our personal albums, on our blogs, on Instagram and/or Facebook … so why not make it easy on yourself (and your viewers) by using Photoshop actions to enhance them?

Click on the following image to be taken to the full class outline, and an opportunity to purchase at a discount price!

Actions: Fix Photos Fast! Class Contrast

I firmly believe in Linda and her dedicated team of professionals at Digital Scrapper, and am confident you will love this class (I know I did!)

Here’s an excerpt from the class description:

Here’s What You Get With Fix Photos FAST (by Linda Sattgast)

  • Receive my personal set of 36 time saving photo editing actions that I use constantly to fix my photos.
  • These actions are available for the following versions: Photoshop Elements 7 through 12 and Photoshop CS2 through Photoshop CC.
  • You receive both versions of this class: Photoshop Elements and Photoshop, so if you change versions, I’ve got you covered.
  • Print out my action “Cheat Sheet” to use as a quick reference until you get acquainted with what each action does.
  • For those who want more training, I’ve provided more than 25 video tutorials on various topics from how to use individual actions more effectively to my personal approach to photo editing.
  • I’ve also included more than a dozen Watch-Over-My-Shoulder videos where I go through a photo from beginning to end and tell you my thought process. In my opinion, this alone is worth the price of the class. You’ll pick up so many tidbits and ideas you may never have thought of before!

Limited Time Discount

For 4 days only this class is on sale for $10 off, so if you’re interested in a faster way to quickly fix your photos using actions,  click here to find out more about the class.

Here’s what one class member had to say:

I learned in a few weeks what I had tried (and failed) to learn in the prior 14 years.
Terri Fullerton, Michigan

This is a sample video from the Fix Photos FAST class:

Actions lighter less contrast video button

In the spirit of full disclosure, this is an affiliate link, which means I may get a commission if you decide to purchase this class. I only recommend products & systems that I use and love myself. I truly believe in Digital Scrapper.

Do you have questions or concerns? Please leave a comment and I’ll be very happy to answer them!

Click here to find out more about the Fix Photos FAST class.

Wreath Play in Photoshop

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I had to have a little wreath play in Photoshop and thought I’d share it with you.

These days I’m taking advantage of every single bit of floral inspiration I see when I look out my window.

It’s a blessing to be able to stay in Arizona until the weather in Alberta turns lovely … not just spring in the technical sense, but warm, sunny, and green … sigh … I know it’s happening and I’m so looking forward to returning home … it’s starting to heat up here in Arizona—big time. I’m not complaining … just sayin’ …

Now, on to my wreath …

White Space

or is it two wreaths … you tell me …

Wreath Play, Keeping With the Times, Photoshop, tutorial, blend modes

I’m guessing you sense there’s a bit of trickery going on here since “Photoshop” is part of my blog title. OK … here’s the scoop.

I created a wreath on a piece of white foam core and took a few shots in Auto mode … er … yes … I used Auto (and why not?) it gave me the sharpest image.

In Lightroom:

I adjusted exposure using Auto Tone, then did a bit more tweaking to get the colours brighter, whiter, and sharper.

With the Tone Curve tool I clicked and dragged in the white part of the photo to whiten the background as much as I could without blowing out any of the whites in the flowers or the wire frame.

I exported the image to Photoshop and dragged it onto a new 12in x 12in, 300ppi document. I duplicated it and moved the duplicate into the upper right corner … looks weird right?

Snip20150429_1

Here’s the magic, change the blend mode of the top image to Multiply:

Snip20150429_3

How fun is that?! When using the Multiply blend mode in Photoshop, areas on a layer that are pure white completely disappear from view!

I did have to tweak the white backgrounds again in both images, and used a bit of layer masking to hide edges but really the initial effect is pretty good.

When I posted it on Instagram I suddenly lost my mind and went off the rails … and created a kaleidoscope (not once but twice). I’m not sure how much it was appreciated, but I had fun!

I hope you enjoyed my little Photoshop tip today!

wreath_play_final

 

PS Touch: Fade

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Hello, and welcome to “app” happy wednesday #34!

If you’re new to the party, this is a weekly link-up to share your photos edited with “apps” of any kind! Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation.

I took this shot with VSCO, imported it into PS Touch, added a black overlay, and used the Fade function to fade the lower right corner. That left the upper left corner in the dark, so to speak. A touch more dramatic wouldn’t you say …

PS Touch, "app" happy wednesday, Keeping With the Times

PS Touch

You might want to check out a few of my earlier posts for some tips and techniques on using apps:

PS Touch

“I took the photo into PS Touch and filled a layer with solid black (circled in red) on top of the photo …”

Using Camera+

“To capture bokeh in Camera+, focus in on a small object by tapping the screen, then touch the Focus Lock (I circled it in red). Lift the camera up and your image should be out of focus and you can capture your bokeh! That’s it!”

Using PicsPlayPro

“Cropped both photos in PicsPlayPro. I also boosted the saturation with a filter. Imported the house image into PS Touch, then imported and layered the gull photo over top. Used the Fade function to fade the lower third part of the bird/sky photo to reveal the house and the field.”

So that’s it for me today. Now, let’s see what you’ve been up to!

  • Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it. Did you use just one? Did you use several?
  • Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
  • Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
  • Link back with a text link or use the “app” happy wednesday button which you will find at the bottom of this post.
  • Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday at midnight.

Sorry … this series is closed.

Vintage Kitchen Blues

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My vintage kitchen blues: my Mom’s cookbooks, a couple of  tea towels, a ladle and a blue Medalta bowl. Processed in LR using kk_within.Vintage Kitchen Blues

I’m loving Kim’s new guidelines for Texture Tuesday! Texture is now texture, whether it’s an overlay, a preset, or texture in an image … woot yay! I’ve become so enthralled with presets it’s almost all I use anymore. BUT today I added one (very light) layer of kk_touch-a just because …

Update: I got my postcards mailed – I’m so stinkin’ proud! and excited to receive six pieces of amazing art in the mail from people all over the world!

Texture Tuesday at Kim Klassen dot com

This Wabi Sabi Wooden Table

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This wabi sabi wooden table … oh my … there is a story behind it … but first I’m going to concentrate on the assignment at hand.

For day 12 of the Start to Finish class, we were to experiment with “shooting wide”, something that I’m not in the habit of doing. I’m always so critical of my space when I see it in photos.

This image was taken in our Arizona home and it does look bare. Truth be told, my homes are bare and that’s the way I like them. So why be ashamed?

Here the windows are not pretty. They’re standard aluminum frames with no drapes or curtains to hide them. We do have a simple roll-down blind for privacy at night.

So even though it seems there is not a lot going on here, it’s real. This is what you would see if you walked into our bedroom, but then you would be pulled over to look out the huge window and would be astonished to see a clear, unobstructed view of the Four Peaks Mountains … so. very. dreamy.this wabi sabi wooden table, vintage find, start to finish

This is about as wabi sabi as it gets …

wabi sabi wooden table, vintage find, start to finish

I have to be careful how I move this table since the boards are ready to fall apart …

wabi sabi wooden table, vintage find, start to finish

… and are as dry as tinder …

wabi sabi wooden table, vintage find, start to finish

So here’s the story. We were out and about last Saturday, driving around and checking out garage sales. I’d already purchased a few items such as rusty blackened cookie sheets, blackened pizza pans, and old ripped cloths. I was having a blast but I did feel a bit sheepish. I mean, not everyone gets it right?

When I came across this table, my heart started to pound. I’d promised hubby I wouldn’t bring home any (more) furniture. OMG … what to do? So then it started … “Barb, it’s just more stuff” “there’s no place to put it” “what are you going to do with it” “it probably has bugs”…

The guy who was having the sale walked over and said “you can take it for fifty cents”. OMG. Oh no … I was in for it … but my sweet hubby picked it up and started to carry it over to the car and as he walked away I could hear him mumbling “well, I guess we could always use it for firewood.”

With a huge smile on my face I handed over fifty cents. The rest is history.

Kim Klassen {dot com}

Friday Finds at kimklassen.com

Texture Tuesday: Silverware and Serviettes

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Wrap vintage silverware with twine and a spring of rosemary for a great addition to any autumn tablescape!

Good morning! I’ll try not to whine too much about our overnight dump of snow … but I did have to mention it, so as to get it out of my system … ugh …

Many of my flowers are mush now … but not my herbs, they’re  fine, so I decided to bring a few in and play around with them.

I edited these images in LR, first adjusting exposure, cropping, and then I applied the preset kk_lightly.

For the first two, I added the texture kk_leslie, at soft light (65%) which warmed  them up …

Silverware-and-Herbs

Silverware-and-Herbs1

The following set has just the preset with no added texture, which left them cooler …

I can’t decide which I like best! Usually I prefer the cooler tones but this time … it may be a tie! What do you think?

Silverware-and-Herbs

Silverware-and-Herbs2

kk_lightly only:

Serviette-and-Silverware2014

Many thanks to all who have signed up for my newsletter! I’m thrilled and honoured that you did! I’m looking forward to communicating in a more personal way.

So … exciting changes for me! The automatic RSS driven e-mail subscription will not be available after today …

Giveaway Winner!

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Sunflowers

Good Saturday morning! Just here to announce the winner of Photoshop Elements 12.

It’s Sheila of Odd Mood Designs. Congratulations, Sheila!

Thanks to all who visited and entered the draw!

Feeling Wishy-Washy

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I’m feeling kind of wishy-washy tonight as I prepare my post for TT. A busy week last week and a busy weekend combined with computer woes, e-mail problems, updates, passwords … all spinning around in my head … ugh … double ugh … I’m really hoping I finally have everything sorted out. I look forward to a quiet and uneventful September … fingers crossed.

I did so much to this photo that I can’t even begin to explain … I’ve been practicing in LR with presets and I’m pretty sure all that really ended up on this is Kim’s kk_lightly. I’m loving the 31 Days of LR with all the fantastic info and wonderful free presets! Yes, I’m behind but what can I say. I’m behind in just about everything right now.

gazania and tea

So for now I’ll bid you a “good-night” even though it will be morning when you see this!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

PS: I’m giving away a copy of Photoshop Elements 12 (draw on Friday, September 5). Check out this post for details.

Photoshop Elements 12 Giveaway!

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NOTICE: DRAW IS CLOSED. WINNER TO BE ANNOUNCED TOMORROW HERE ON THE BLOG!

Do you, or anyone you know, need/want Photoshop Elements 12? Perhaps you have an earlier version and have hesitated to upgrade, or you have a student in the family that would just loooove to have this!

Well, I have an exciting offer today! Digital Scrapper has provided me with one copy to give away!! Woot!

Now, I don’t need to “sell” you on the idea but if you’re interested in what’s new in PSE 12, you can check out this article at Adobe.
adobe ps 12, giveaway, keeping with the times, digital scrapper

So please, simply leave a comment and just say you’d like to have it, and your name will be entered in the draw (to be chosen by the True Random Number Generator.)

  • Make sure I am able to reach you … if you’re a no-reply blogger I have no way to respond.
  • Winner will be chosen on Friday, September 5th at 1:00 pm MDT.
  • If no one claims the prize by Sunday, September 7th at 1:00 pm MDT, another winner will be chosen.

Good luck!!

 

“app” happy wednesday #19

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Welcome to “app” happy wednesday #19!

If you’re new to the party, this is a weekly link-up to share your photos edited with “apps” of any kind! Let me stress there are no rules!! Just join the fun and share any kind of artsy creation.

Do you use PS Touch? I’ve been using it more and more and the reason for that is the new Creative Cloud feature. It’s so convenient to access photos and textures!

  • I have Creative Cloud since it comes with the Photoshop Photography Program.
  • You can see I have a folder called iPhone 2014.
  • I offload my Camera Roll to my computer with LR and then upload them to the Creative Cloud. Of course your phone and iPad will share photos if you have the Photo Stream turned on, but I had turned mine off for a while since it was driving me crazy … .
  • I’ve also uploaded some photos to “DSLR Photos” taken with my BGC (which I do not post on IG – ever) but I can use them when posting to my blog from my iPad.
  • The best part is I uploaded tons of textures so now when I use PS Touch they are conveniently available to use on my images:
PS Touch Screen Shot, "app" happy wednesday, keeping with the times

iPad Screenshot

So what can you do in PS Touch? Well, for one thing you can work with layers.

Here I added two textures, both different opacities and blend modes. I also added a filter to the actual photo layer.

image

Here’s my final image after I added the frame in Camera+

… this creation is not one of my favourites and I will admit working in PS Touch feels awkward. But the whole point of this exercise for me is to push myself to learn the ins and outs of using different apps. Sometimes it just takes a while to warm up to something new and unfamiliar.

And just because I felt like torturing myself further, I used PS Touch to resize the images and then I created this post on my iPad. Arghhhh!! Why?!?! Why I ask myself?! I’m major fumble fingers when I don’t have a mouse … it’s a miracle I didn’t hit Publish halfway through.

One last thing to note – notice that I have a bouquet of peonies in August? How did I manage that? Well, way back on July 3rd I snipped 5 unopened buds, put them in a bag and left them in the fridge until yesterday. After I cut the ends and put them in water they burst open almost immediately! Way cool!!

So that’s it for me today. Now let’s see what you’ve been up to!

Use any “app” you like and perhaps explain how you used it.

  • Did you use just one? Did you combine apps?
  • Simply create some art. Post it on your blog or Flickr or wherever you are uploading your work, and then come back here and link it up!
  • Visit a few friends to see what they are up to and perhaps learn some fabulous new tips and techniques.
  • Spread the word about the link-up, the more the merrier!
  • Each party will start at 5:00 am on Wednesdays and will stay open until the following Sunday night at midnight.
  • You can now use Instagram to link your images! Way cool! Check the article here. I also added some tips on this post here.

*sorry … this series is closed

Friday Finds: Oregano

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I seem to be drawn to tiny, understated flowers, so when I saw that my oregano was blooming I had to snip a few sprigs to play with.
oregano-copy-2

I think it would make a great bridal bouquet … for an elf …

Friday Finds: Oregano, keeping with the times

The cute font is free and is DJB Jacked Up Kinda Love from our own fontographer, Darcy Baldwin (from Digital Scrapper). You can find her fonts in the shop here, and Darcy can also turn your very own handwriting into a font! Check that out here.

LR Preset: kk_lightandairy

Texture: kk_poetic

Time to Start Thinking About It

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Autumn Whites

 

Our summer this year was amazing. We had above average temperatures and no violent storms. We had lots of time with our family which we spent out on the lake, having campfires, and just generally hanging out.

Now the sun is rising later and setting earlier … there’s just no getting around it. That’s one of the first signs that things are changing. The leaves are looking tired and so are my flower pots.

I have to admit I’m a bit relieved to have some rain and cooler temps this morning and I plan to do some baking, something I haven’t done for weeks because of the heat.

And as far as blogging goes I feel like I’ve fallen off the grid and must now either step it up or … else …

So I pulled an image out of the archives this morning; something that has become a lot easier since I’ve been working on my LR organization. However, I was watching one of the videos for the 31 Days class and oh.my.heavens … my keywords are a disaster … oh my … but onwards and upwards!

Today I’m posting a creation and that’s what counts! I ran kk_lightandairy_film and then added one layer of kk_quiet on soft light.

Don’t forget “app” happy wednesday tomorrow! I hope to see you there!

 

Friday Finds: It’s Chokecherry Time!

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Sometimes you don’t have to go far to find something interesting.

As I stepped out my front door, I wasn’t feeling particularly inspired. In fact I was feeling pretty much the opposite of particularly inspired. But then I spied a pink flower in the bushes and went over to investigate. The flower was pretty, and quite unexpected (it was a volunteer Lavatera), but then I spied the chokecherries.
Chokecherry on Towel, Friday Finds, Keeping with the Times

It’s a big sign that we are tipping over the edge of summer.

This brings a ton of mixed feelings; the urge to scream no, then excitement and anticipation for the time of year I love most, a bit of nostalgia, and a feeling of calm.

I’ll soon be making jelly with these sour little bullets. I can’t wait to be pouring the dark burgundy liquid into hot jars, sealing them tightly, and adding a cute little lid and tag. Treasures ready for gifting.

Chokecherry on Towel, Friday Finds, Keeping with the Times

Oh, and here’s the pretty volunteer Lavatera that drew me in …

Chokecherry on Towel, Friday Finds, Keeping with the Times

Thank you so much for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Texture Tuesday: Oh What an Inspiration!

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echinops, lightroom, adobe, adobe photoshop, lightroom template, kim klassen

Today is TT and I’m late to the party … but as it turns out, it’s a good thing.

When I read Kim’s post I was so struck by her words “something good is about to happen” …

Those words! So full of promise, anticipation, excitement.

Something good is about to happen!

I don’t really know what she is referring to, but that doesn’t matter. It’s not the point. If I saw these words on my bathroom mirror every morning I’d be so excited to start the day wondering what it could be … Perhaps it’s only that …

  • it’s a most beautiful summer day here
  • the echinops in my garden are glorious
  • I found the best tools and cleaners for my windows which are now beyond sparkling
  • I spent over 30 minutes organizing LR and now my presets are in order
  • I thought of a great new idea for an (autumn) wreath
  • and on and on … who knows? the day is not over.

For today’s image I used kk_melancholy and the font is Arsenale White on Overlay Blend Mode

 

Don’t forget! tomorrow is “app” happy wednesday!!

Square White Space

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Good Monday Morning! What are you having for breakfast?Bowl of Cherries

I’m having white space.

One of our challenges in the Be Still 52 class was to create a still life around a spoon. Once again my love for clean, minimal, and white kicked in.

I took this with my DSLR and I have to tell you that it’s becoming more and more difficult for me to set up for a square image. I’ve become so used to my phone which makes it a breeze because of the option to take a square shot to start with.

So here I first set everything on a 12×12 inch piece of scrapbook paper and then removed it when I was ready to shoot. That helped but it wasn’t perfect. I still had to crop and straighten. Then I had to lighten, brighten, dodge and burn. Oh well, it turned out in the end and I achieved what I was going for.

Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day!

Gingham Style Video Tutorial

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Hi all! Just popping in today to let you know about my newest tutorial “Gingham Style” available at Digital Scrapper (and it’s on sale too!)

Not only is this is an easy and fun technique where you’ll learn a bit about creating patterns and how to use them, you’ll also find some great Photoshop tips that may come in handy in any project you have in mind.digital scrapper tutorial, gingham style, keeping with the times

PS: this is not a sponsored post!

 

August: Inspiring Reverence or Admiration

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It’s August! Did you know it’s the only month this year to start on a Friday? Cool interesting fact!

Did you know that the Gladiolus is the birth flower for August?

I wasn’t really aware of that as I picked up a bunch of these stately flowers. I felt a bit guilty paying money for them but, hey … they cost $5.00 and I won’t be seeing them at this price for another year.

Gladiolus, August, Keeping with the Times

noun

AUgust

1.the eighth month of the year, containing 31 days.

adjective

auGUST
1. inspiring reverence or admiration; of supreme dignity or grandeur; majestic: an august performance of a religious drama.
2. venerable; eminent: an august personage.

Gladiolus, August, Keeping with the Times

So that’s what I found this week. I’m going to treat this month with the respect and dignity it deserves.

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Vintage Baking Powder Tin Vase

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The flower arranging bug has hit me — and hit me hard this year. I’m not content with putting only one type of flower in a vase and calling it done.

Last week after I arranged my Funky Modern Triangular Bouquet I started to see possibilities everywhere … such as this lovely lily and (bluebell) bunch that I placed in a vintage baking powder tin. Easy peasy.

In the past I’ve been quite annoyed by these purple flowers (I think they’re some kind of bluebell) and I would pull them out of my garden like weeds …

… oh, now wait just a minute … I love weeds! so I added some flowering thyme to fill in the spaces and voila!

I processed this photo in LR and used kk_oldendays at a reduced opacity.

Vintage Baking Powder Tin, keeping with the times, vintage, flower arrangement

For these two images I simply let the vibrant colours loose …

Vintage Baking Powder Tin, keeping with the times, vintage, flower arrangement

DSC_0604-copy

Summer is so busy! This week I have three of my grandchildren visiting and the days are packed full. So now before I call it a day I have to muster up some energy and go and water my plants.

So thank you for visiting and I do hope your summer is going as beautifully as mine!

Country Roads and Friday Finds

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Quite often in the summer I’ll jump in the car and simply drive around. Yes, I’m searching for photos, but at the same time I’m soaking up life. If I hadn’t gone out and about I would not have discovered this wonderful barn. I sat and stared at it for the longest time. The whole scene brought me peace.

So orderly.

So tidy.

So loved. I wanted to take it home with me.

I could smell freshly cut lawn and clover.

I could hear tall grasses rustling in the warm breeze, and a squirrel chattering in the evergreens. Other than that … silence.

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

Later in the day I visited Star Lake and ran into this fellow who was pretty much minding his own (business) …

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

… seriously?

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

OK. Goodnight! I’ll leave you alone.

A Drive in the Country, barns, country, country living, keeping with the times, friday finds

For the past few days we’ve had smoke from forest fires blanketing our area, so that’s why the sky in each of these images looks blown out and featureless. The poor air quality has been rated as high as 7 (out of 10) which is unheard of in these parts. And even though it does make for some interesting light I’m ready for some fresh air. Here’s hoping for a cool breeze and a bit of rain please.

Thanks for stopping by, I so appreciate it! Have a wonderful weekend!

Light and Airy Wildflower Bouquet

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It’s full-on summer here and I have wildflower fever.

I’m constantly scouring ditches and fields for pretty wildflowers and this year with all the rain and warm temperatures there is no shortage of material.Light and Airy Wildflower Bouquet

DSC_0375-copy

Light and Airy Wildflower Bouquet

On Sunday I threw on my sunhat, grabbed some shears and a pail of water, and and joyfully hit the road in search of treasures. I’d seen a vision and I was on a mission.

First of all I clipped a whole clump of purple vetch. It’s a must to put it into a pail of water immediately or it’s not going to make it. It wilts extremely fast and has a hard time recovering (if ever does at all). Most wildflowers (weeds) are like that – they need water asap. After I had gathered everything, I let it sit in water overnight (outside and out of sunlight.) The next day in the cool of the morning, I arranged my bouquet.

  • re-trim ends of all flowers
  • fill a vase with fresh cold water (I used a plastic cup inside this old cream can)
  • cut the cow parsley short and into single florets, and cluster them in the centre of the bouquet
  • strip most of the leaves off of the fire weed and place three of them for height
  • let the purple vetch do what it does best—spill out over the edge and fall over
  • add a bit of white yarrow for fill, keeping it close to the cow parsley
  • keep the bouquet out of the sun and change the water daily

So here’s what I used:

  • fire weed
  • purple vetch, white vetch
  • cow parsley
  • white yarrow
  • purple or white clover would have worked beautifully as well

Thanks for stopping by!

Texture Tuesday: Reflecting

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Good morning! The peonies are producing like crazy and I have light pink, dark pink and white ones vying for attention.

Today I have a single light pink blossom to share with you. I’m cheating … I know it’s Texture Tuesday but with all the lr presets that Kim has provided in the Be Still 52 class … I cannot stop playing …

I used kk_oldendays on these … sigh …
Peony Mirror Still Life, Keeping With the Times

Peony Mirror Still Life, Keeping With the Times

Peony Mirror Still Life, Keeping With the Times

… and be still my heart palpitations … I applied kk_darkmood and reduced the clarity from 57 to -44.

Peony Mirror Still Life, Keeping With the Times

… good heavens, I can’t decide! here it is with the clarity at 57 … which do you prefer?

Peony Mirror Still Life, Keeping With the Times

Oh my … you are getting off easy today. I could post 15 of these but I’m going to restrain myself and save some for a rainy day.

Happy TT!

Casual Country Garden Bouquet

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This week I’m like a kid in a candy shop. I”m finding flowers everywhere I look.Peony & Lilac Bouquet, keeping with the times, friday finds

To say my garden is exploding would be an understatement. I hardly know what to do with it all! Oh would that I could save some for January, February, and March! But alas I cannot, so photos will have to do.

Peony Lilac Bouquet

I could post a flower-a-day for 365 days I’m sure … .

So here are five random things that made me happy this past week:

  1. Spending time with family on the holiday long weekend.
  2. Lots and lots of delicious food.
  3. Weather ranging from not bad to amazing, and that the big storm with giant hail did not materialize.
  4. Flowers, flowers, and more flowers.
  5. Taking photos (especially with my iPhone) and editing on my iPad.

So what did you find this past week? What made you happy?

Texture Tuesday: Anemone Flashback

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Texture Tuesday, keeping with the times

Just popping in to say hi! and happy TT! Today is Canada Day, so Happy Canada Day to all my fellow Canadians!

We’ve had such a fun holiday visiting with family. Our oldest daughter and her family have been here since Friday. Today they are heading home … so sad … already can’t wait for next time … .

Have a wonderful day and I hope to see you tomorrow at “app” happy wednesday!

kk_awaken
LR Preset Melancholy at 25%

Friday Finds: A Quiet Moment

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Friday Finds: Butterfly and Lilacs, keeping with the times

I had planned to write a rather large post to take you on a tour through my garden but somehow the day got away on me. It’s the Canada Day long weekend coming up and we’re looking forward to some quality family time. The house is clean, the beds are made, and the bathrooms are sparkling. I have steaks marinating in the freezer, hamburgers ready, and pies in the works.

Between all the preparations I took a minute and sat down with a glass of ice cold water, camera in hand, and waited for that elusive butterfly that had been taunting me all morning. It had been flitting through the yard and around my head and not once did it land anywhere near me. So I set out some bait: a jar full of lilacs. I knew it could not resist and sooner or later I would “capture” it. And yes, well the rest is history.

I edited this in Lightroom with one of Kim’s presets (kk_oldendays) … a click of a button and magic happens.

Happy Canada Day to all my Canadian friends! I’ll see everyone next week or you can find me on Instagram if you’re interested in our weekend shenanigans!

 

Melancholy Lilacs II

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Today my still life blends lilacs present with lilacs past.

A fresh bouquet rests on a white tea towel while photos from last spring and a soft mauve scarf draw the eye through the image.

Lilac Still Life, Keeping With the Times

Melancholy-Lilac-with-Scarf1-copyAlthough the end is near, the shrubs still have blooms and even as they droop and fade their scent gets stronger and sweeter. Now there are swarms of swallowtail butterflies and hummingbird moths (hemaris thysbe) and bees and wasps all trying to gather up every single drop of nectar before it’s gone.

The parade of blooms continues in my garden. As the lilacs and anemones near their end, I watch closely as the peony buds double in size on a daily basis and the perennial poppies ready themselves to burst open. New growth and life is everywhere and some days I hardly know where to start. I do know that if I don’t move quickly the moment will pass. But some moments will pass and I’m good with that. Some moments are simply meant to be savoured, not saved.

Be Still 52 Class

Day 4: Make it Happen

kk_melancholy LR Preset

Texture: Cora/Soft Light 50%

Melancholy Lilac

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This takes me back to the farmhouse where I grew up. Faded memories of lilacs and mom.Melancholy Lilac, Keeping With the Times

I’m swooning over that window. Yes, it’s a sweet little prop …

Melancholy Lilac

… and the flowers are glorious this year.

Melancholy Lilac

Oh my. Thank you Kim for Melancholy. Just in time for lilacs.

Be Still 52 Class

Day 4: Make it Happen

Oh and don’t forget to join me for “app” happy wednesday tomorrow!