In the current issue of Somerset Studio you’ll see one of my newest projects…a collage using my favorite inspiration, birds, which I’ve nestled within cozy cages.
While creating these pieces I thought about my early childhood. I was born in Thailand and lived there with my biological family until I was 3 when I was adopted and moved to the U.S. Sometimes life changes in an instant…just like that. I had a difficult childhood in many ways, including several periods in my teens and throughout my twenties when I was without a true family of my own. However, very unexpectedly everything changed once again…just like that, when I met Bill.
Here’s something that I created with Bill in mind…together we created a loving home.
And here’s me these days…sitting so happily, feeling immensely grateful to have landed in a comfy-cozy spot. To some, a cage might bring to mind negative thoughts of confinement, but in my case a bird cage seems more like a haven…a place to finally call home.
Sitting still…thinking (about how lucky I am to have Bill and Brook as my family)…and dreaming (about all the wonderful moments that still await.) My thoughts, my heart…everything is full of hope and love.
And speaking of love, here are a couple of little somethings that I made for “With One Stamp” which is published in this same issue of Somerset Studio.
The heart is ever-inspiring…let it be your guide.
20 Comments, Comment or Ping
LOVE LOVE LOVE the birds. You really make me love the birds. Especially when they have the little sparkle on their furry little chests. So cute!
January 2nd, 2011
This is so darling Becky, even sweeter with the reason behind it. So happy for you to have created your own dear family.
Congrats on being published too, I love those little birdies!
Wishing you much happiness in 2011!
♥jenny
January 2nd, 2011
Happy 2011! I haven’t picked up the new Studio yet but its at the top of my list. Its funny. This weekend I was brainstorming about March projects and focused on all things bird related. Guess we’re kindred spirits. Take care, stay healthy, and be creative!
January 2nd, 2011
And I am so happy that things changed “just like that” and you have now found your true home.
Hugs,
Suz
January 2nd, 2011
Oh Becky, what a lovely post! I just love the birds. I was just at the bookstore on the 1st and they didn’t have this issue out yet, and now I can’t wait to get it! You seem like such a lovely person, and I’m happy that I got to know you a bit through our blogs and art. You and your art is such an inspiration to me. I still have yet to check out the thrift stores for wool…it will be summer here and triple digits before you know it! LOL I’ve shown your previous articles in Somerset to my hubby and tell him, “she has visited my blog!” LOL. 🙂
January 2nd, 2011
These are wonderful. Your work and the Misty Mawn article really tempt me to purchase that magazine …
January 2nd, 2011
I just got my hands on the last issue about a week ago and now I can’t wait to see this one! I LOVED your work in the last one! And these look absolutely lovely!
January 3rd, 2011
happy heart…….happy home……..happy new year, sweet becky!! you are inspiration in its truest form…….i’m loving your somerset birdies (and your heart spool complete with banner on top is my favorite!!), and your watercolor bird from the past post is absolutely gorgeous!! lots of fabulous creativity in 2011 is in the works!!! xox
January 3rd, 2011
Becky I had no idea that you had such a childhood. Thank goodness you have found your way to a place full of love and hope and that no one could ever crush your spirit. I think I now have a better understanding of how you developed your uncanny ability to repurpose materials into art supplies and beautiful artwork. You never cease to amaze me. Love the birds that are content in their homes. These are just gorgeous. I can’t wait to get my copy and see how you achieved that texture in the images. Love it. The feature in SS “with one stamp” is fun. Reminds me of creating with friends and seeing how each of our projects always turn out a bit different, even with the same supplies. Fun. Take care!
January 3rd, 2011
Thanks all for your supportive comments…there sure is a lot of kind heartedness in the air, thank you.
January 3rd, 2011
These are lovely Becky. I’m so with you in seeing the cage as cozy and comfy and cocoon like. Congrats on the publications.
January 3rd, 2011
Can’t wait to see this issue; I so love birds! I love hearing about what inspires your work, the inner reflection~ I am so happy You, Bill and Brook
have made such a wonderful nest! The comforts of loved ones brings so much inspiration, to your art! I love these, can’t wait to see your article;yes I’m singing your praises 😀
January 3rd, 2011
Becky, me too…a not so happy childhood, many sadnesses….but I always had my art. Art heals. It’s truly a gift. Your heart comes out in your work. The bird designs are so peaceful and comforting to me.
Blessings!
Diane
PS: So happy to have met you through blogging – wishing you a very Happy New Year.
January 4th, 2011
Diane, I’m sorry that it wasn’t so fantastic for you either…but you’re right, art heals…we’re very lucky to have found this outlet.
January 4th, 2011
Happy New Year Becky,
Again a huge inspiration and I do so look forward to getting that copy of Somerset Studios(my fave), Home is where your heart is and I am so glad you found yours, I think we are all homeless sometime figuratively or in reality and it is a treasure when we really feel at home in our heart. no matter where we are. Your artwork and thoughts and life reflect the beauty in your heart and home.
Thankyou for always sharing,
Ivy
January 5th, 2011
I loved your post. I associate birds with “home” and I’m not sure why.
It fills my heart to the brim when any mother bird selects our property to build their nest. I feel like they know it’s a place where there is enough love for everyone. Funny, but it’s a very strong feeling. When I see a bird nesting in my honeysuckle, it makes my throat tighten with emotion.
It just reminds me of all that a mother’s love really is.
January 5th, 2011
dearest becky…
thank you so much for sharing a bit of your life story with us.
i was adopted too! family is the most wonderful blessing in my opinion! i am so grateful that you have both an amazing family AND a special haven to raise and love them in.
i am always amazed at your talent and get soo excited when i see your sweet name in a magazine…like my somerset life article i read today about wax paper.
you are such an inspiration to me.
happy new year friend.
much love,
c
January 5th, 2011
I received my first issue of Somerset Studio today, your work is quite lovely with a wealth of vintage feel. So glad I found you!
January 7th, 2011
It was this article that brought me to your blog. I am enjoying your creativity. Thanks for writing so well & sharing so much here.
January 24th, 2011
beautiful! (loved your bird on Brave Girls’ email today!)
Happy Friday, Heidi
February 4th, 2011
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