Repurposed Bird Stamp


A couple of months ago I received a letter from my Mom, who lives in Hong Kong.  And on the envelope I was delighted to see some bird stamps. I used one of them to make this tiny tree.

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This blue birdie went out on a limb, which is something I’ve been thinking about doing more of these days.

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On the other limb I placed a single feather (representing hope) and a dangling pearl (representing purity and honesty).  I also like how the feather is leaf shaped (so perfect for this season of shedding leaves).  Sometimes you have to let go of the old to allow space for the new.

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For me, trying new things is challenging because I like the familiar and routine.  I find comfort in knowing what to expect.   However, staying in this safe zone all the time can be very limiting.  And I like the idea of living a limitless life.

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If you’ve been thinking of going out on the limb more often, I’d be happy to send this tree (shown above) to you as a little visual reminder.  The first one who replies (just leave a comment to this post letting me know) can have it.

Thanks and I hope you have fun trying something new this weekend!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



13 Comments, Comment or Ping

  1. Your ” out on a limb ” struck an inspirational feather with me. It seems that is what life consists of “feathers” . Feathers of hope, inspiration, courage, dissapointment, anxiety, helplessness, joy, curiosity, forgiveness, love and some small ones of despair all floating together in one life. Sometimes the box seems way too small and sometimes way too large for comfort, none the less , we each have a personal box in which to exist and it takes some daring to step out of the border, even for a short while. Maybe I can take a step, and maybe not. We’ll just have to wait and see. Thanks .

    November 15th, 2013

  2. laura huffman

    No way. Who hoo. Looks like it might be me. Yeah.

    November 15th, 2013

  3. Jeanette in Illinois

    Becky,
    I love this message sent by way of such a sweet tree, your symbolism is remarkable!
    Hope your weekend finds you steps closer to that limb, you can do it!
    Blessings and hugs,
    Jeanette

    November 16th, 2013

  4. Becky Shander

    Hi Ladies. Thank you for the kind words as well as for sharing your perspectives on this post. I really love hearing your thoughts, thank you. And Laura, it looks like Martha replied first (but, I have plenty more to share so I’ll be in touch to arrange the details with you). Martha, I’ll send the tree your way as soon as I receive your mailing address. Thanks ladies!

    November 16th, 2013

  5. Michelle duke

    This is so lovely! And a wonderful reminder that we all need to reexamine our “box” every now and then and challenge ourselves! Thank you for sharing with us!!!

    November 16th, 2013

  6. Hi Becky, I’ve been meaning to send a convo and this gave me the perfect opportunity to say HELLO from down 495.

    The symbolism of your artistic tree is representative of the lives of so many people. I for one find it hard to break free from routine. I used to be so impulsive, ready for adventure at any given moment and now I struggle with taking time away from my art for a rendezvous with friends and potential friends.

    Your post has made me realize that I must get out of my little nest more often and connect with people.

    As always, Thank you for the depth of thought and inspiration you put into your unique creations,

    JoJo

    November 16th, 2013

  7. Linda K

    what a lovely tree rich in symbolism- a sweet reminder about taking a step and branching out. Like the tree, here’s to staying grounded, but at the same time going out on a limb. Have a beautiful weekend dear Becky.

    November 16th, 2013

  8. Mary Werner

    What a lovely small reminder to set out as a treat for yourself. It would look cute just quietly sitting on the narrow ledge of the window pane where it would be seen each morning as I draw open the drapes – a happy little piece of eye candy to start the day. I will get busy making my own version of something I need in my life. Thanks for all your wonderful posts!

    November 16th, 2013

  9. Mindy

    Did your mom use that stamp knowing you love birds? Sweet tree Becky. Love your creations.

    November 16th, 2013

  10. Jani Howe

    What lovely thoughts, Becky. Makes me think of all the times I’ve had to go out on a limb in life. Thankfully, things always worked out. I’m getting a little old for tree-climbing, but I am trying to artistically work more and more ‘out of the box’. The box being, of course, the boxes we humans make for ourselves, no? I hope to hear more of that limb you are thinking of climbing out on, if it is an artistic one!

    November 16th, 2013

  11. Sometimes we read the perfect things at the perfect time… Oct. 1st my life was completely turned upside down when my husband decided to leave myself and the kids. I was devastated to say the least. In the month and half since then, I have had to do so many things, make so many decisions and face so many fears. Slowly but surely I am getting stronger though, and constantly remind myself that this is a new beginning and the possibilities that lay ahead are endless.

    November 21st, 2013

  12. Becky Shander

    Shannon, I’m so sorry that you’ve been going through such a difficult change. The way that you’re dealing with it is amazing and I admire your ability to be strong. May your new beginnings bring you joy.

    November 21st, 2013

  13. Such simple joy in this bird stamp tree of life. It is your description that brings home the message of living life to the fullest with hope and happiness. Beautiful Dear.

    November 21st, 2013

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