Tag: New Blog

Change

There are subtle and drastic changes in the topography of the desert landscape. Weather can carve new paths and crevices in the rock faces, washes, and leave flora twisted upon itself. The past few times I went hiking was on the same trail yet it was different in so many ways. Lighting on one particular day was glorious and magical. A cloud covered a section of the mountain while the sun peaked through and shone so brightly on another. To be there in that moment and witness the light was breathtaking. This space of time literally had me pause my breath for seconds, it was truly amazing. The picture below does it some justice, but as we all know a photograph from a phone does not get the light exactly as it was during the moment. Looking back at my photos from the hike prior to that day, the mountain looked drastically different as did the wash. I long for the day to paint these photographs even if just in a sketchbook to immortalize the memories of each beautiful day.

After being completely mesmerized by the light and sharing the moment with our daughter, she brought my attention to something else entirely. I love how toddlers can do this. All children have different attention spans and I love how their imagination can take over in an instant. We started to gather rocks and began stacking them up in towers, or carins for my outdoor friends. We found that releasing pebbles and sand from our grasp at different heights onto the stones made different sounds. Some were high pitched noises whereas others were subtle and soft. We started to hum and sing little tunes while making music out of natural objects. It was a lovely day outside. I hope you all have a Fabulous Friday and get a chance to go outside this weekend. Thank you for reading!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog

These Precious Moments

Bountiful rejuvenation happens in the desert after moderate levels of rainfall. The luscious green plants spring up all throughout the land. Some may say, there is nothing as far as the eye can see, but I see everything! The ankle breaking cholla cactus that drops its seeds everywhere are quite interesting. The dog has to learn to avoid such plants. Some plants are friendly to the touch and tickle our palms as we walk by. Our daughter loves reaching out and feeling trees or bushes so I am constantly on the lookout for thorns or unfriendly protective plants while hiking in the desert. This plant was lovely and she really enjoyed the texture. It had yellow and green leaves and was set inside a crevice of sandstone. Plants amaze me how they can grow in cracks. They are so resilient.

Karen Hilliard Art | Blog | These Precious Moments

I have been working on this small sketchbook of our hikes and backpacking trips for her memories. Hopefully, as she ages, she can look back and remember some of our wonderful moments outside. So much happens out there. This sketch is from hiking at Red Springs in Calico Basin. The parking lot is the turn off right before the loop of Red Rock Canyon and it is free to hike Red Springs. A natural spring! There is also sport and trad climbing right near the parking lot. The boulder field is up a ways and past the houses. It is a great out and back day hike and wonderful for children. They get to run around, climb, and explore what looks like another planet. I hope you all get a chance to go and if you need any more information, I linked it here! May your Monday night be magical and thank you for reading!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog, red rock canyon, watercolor painting

Sands of Time

Letting sediments run through the spaces between my fingers and watching it fall to the ground is truly enjoyable, calming. Listening to the “woah,” and “wow” coming from our child was wonderful. I loved watching the sand change my perspective when I put it in the sunlight versus the shadows our bodies created. She loved watching the “dirt” float in the breeze and move in different directions. We did not travel far, as I stated in Monday’s blog, but it was enjoyable and an overall remarkable experience. Time stood still in moments and slowed down in others. Having a child has been a constant reminder to take time and treasure every second of the day. I have learned that when I speed myself up or try to take on too many tasks, that becoming overwhelmed can happen. Juggling many ideas, jobs, etc. at once used to be easy for me and not even a thought process. I went from task to task with speed yet accomplished so much. Putting my all into everything so it was all done right was very important to me.

Work in progress…

I have recently learned that breathing and slowing down opens up an entirely different world of unknowns. I had no idea that moving at a slower pace would be so lovely. Now I am seeing the world all over again with new eyes. I think I mentioned this before in a previous blog but everyday it happens again and again. Nothing could have prepared me for this new adventure. Sands of time are unique and different for every individual. Over the years I have been fortunate to create a thick book of life for my short existence on this planet. It is filled with chapters and stories of many loved ones and countless adventures. Backpacking with another human on my back is amazing and I can honestly not put into words how it truly feels. I hope to fill all her days with wonder, art, music, exploration, and so much imagination. Where are some places you have traveled to that sparked happiness in your life? I would love to hear about it. Thank you for reading and I hope you all have a wondrous Wednesday!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog, red rock canyon

Play Time

Traveling from California forests to Nevada deserts was a huge climate change for our little one. Not only were there vast topography changes but also stimulation and shifts due to weather differences. In California we had the cold, wet, damp, and dewy mornings combined with rain. This led to luscious forest growth and green all around us under the redwoods. In the desert we shared moments of sand running through our fingers and staying in the crevices of the lines in our hands. Both climates were cool, however, California had a bit more of a chill due to the coastal midst. Hiking in the desert is also magical how quickly the temperature can drop once the sun sets behind the mountains. Both states shared a winter chill that our daughter and I enjoyed. We both love wearing hats so it was nice to be able to share fun memories with our knitted wear.

Today we hiked the beautiful Red Rock Canyon here in Nevada. This place used to feel like our backyard as we were a bit closer and now it is a journey. Luckily, it makes the hiking there all the more wondrous and enjoyable. Sharing these moments with a toddler is a completely different experience than how my husband and I used to run 4 to 6 miles in a short amount of time. Now, the time is still the same, yet the distance may not even equate to a mile. Immediately out of the backpack, her hands glide into the sediments below her feet and around her being. The smile on her face illuminates everything and everyone on the trail. I love how when people see a baby they immediately smile and wave, or say hello. At least, out in nature this has been a welcoming experience. While greeting every human and dog on the trail, we were also fascinated by animal poop, wild plants, and above everything…rocks. More will be shared this week in future blogs so stay tuned and stay safe out there! Thank you for reading and I hope you all had a marvelous Monday.

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog, red rock canyon, watercolor painting

Forest Love

Canopies of California Number 3 | Karen Hilliard Art | Tiny Paintings — AVAILABLE CLICK HERE

Canopies of California Number 2 | Karen Hilliard Art | Tiny Paintings — AVAILABLE CLICK HERE

Back at the root of my inspiration and depths of my creative awakening in the heart of California, I walk into the forest and take a deep breath. The fog rolls in all around me and I look down at my feet to see the small seedlings bending with dew drops. The heaviness of the weather may weigh these small plants down, however, one day they will be mighty and taller than myself. The smell of fresh rain travels through my nostrils and my eyes light up with the cool morning temperatures. All of my senses are awakened in the forest. Traveling around with my little family this December has been wonderful as always. The roots beneath our feet remind me of my own family tree and the memories we made on this trip. The baby lasted a wee bit in the backpack and then chose to run around splashing in puddles. So much fun was had in this forest.

If you ever get a chance to visit the Grove of Old Trees in Occidental California, I highly recommend it. Also, the town has lovely artisan shops to peruse. Make sure to dress warm and bring a rain jacket as well as boots to be safe. Totally worth the trip! We were in the hunt for a new coffee mug and found a wonderful piece by a local artist. This mug took half an hour to choose and I went with the one that reminded me of the splashing puddles. Overall that was a huge memory. The dog drinking from every puddle and stream was also joyous. Every rain drop that fell on my husband’s shoulder and coated his sweatshirt with patterns were also fun to watch. Looking up at the canopy above reminded me to slow down and enjoy all the tiny moments. Have a wonderful weekend and thank you for reading!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog

Winter Solstice

The shortest of days and longest of nights is upon us! Winter Solstice has come and with it the first day of winter. A time to celebrate the return of the sun and the welcoming of warmth returning. My family and I celebrated this magical day with a hike, a meal, and reflection on everything important to us. We dried oranges to decorate our home while giggling and enjoying each other’s company. Our first attempt at a sugary delicious Yule Log was a success and the fire was lit in our fireplace. This is a time of year to remember those who are important and reach out to loved ones with open arms. We are fortunate to have many wonderful people in our lives and each one fills us with gratitude for their existence. The wonderful experiences I have with those around me really sparks the fire of my artistic journey. Today was about appreciation for loved ones and reminders were all around.

The hike was lovely with the sun shining overhead. The dog had a blast and was in full protection mode for our little one. Even though the parents were both there to watch out for her, he only left her side to fetch a stick. Keeping a watchful eye at all times, the stick was quickly dropped the second she even stumbled. He is an amazing dog and we are blessed to have him. Our daughter loved feeling the sediments between and beneath her fingers. Climbing up and down sand drifts as well as rocky paths were her favorite on this day. My husband and I just enjoyed the ambiance around us and carried it with us back to our homestead where we created some magic. Twinkle lights, orange slices, crafts, food, and more, illuminated our day with light. This solstice has been a wonderful start to an exciting new journey. I love the idea of rebirth associated with the return of the sun. Did any of you celebrate? If so, what did you do? Also, I made candied oranges which have a nice association with St. Nicholas and the gold coins he gave away, along with chocolate. Gift giving this time of year is by far my favorite. Thank you for reading and I hope you had a serene Saturday!!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog, watercolor painting

Making Quilts

Hats off to quilt makers all around the world. This is by no means an easy task to take on. I love blankets and patterns so quilting has always fascinated me. This Christmas I chose to make a few small ones as gifts for loved ones and the process has challenged me in several ways. I have never been a fan of measuring accuracy or straight lines so this in itself was intense for me. I triple checked every ounce of these quilts and still had some Happy Little Accidents. I think this is what makes a good quilt though. The love and time, also intention, put into one. With each thread or movement of the piece, I try to think of beautiful thoughts and imagine these wishes being sewn into every stitch. These are truly gifts of love and I am happy I can spread joy this year through another form of art.

Would I ever do these on commission or try to sell a quilt I made…I really don’t think so. As I said in my opening sentence, “hats off to quilt makers around the world!” These gifts are true works of art and I am fortunate to say that I am almost finished with my last one for this year. I am thankful for a handy YouTube video with a really nice lady who posted how to add batting and backing as I had forgotten. Her link is HERE. If you would like to get into quilting, her channel seems excellent! I hope these quilts keep my loved ones warm for many years to come.

I am grateful for everything I have learned this month about sewing and my own perseverance. I knew it was strong and I was resilient, yet, these projects tested time. It is very easy to put a project down and think, “I will finish that later when I have time.” This is usually a stopping point for me and I end up not finishing it for years after I say that sentence. So I am working on this tonight, tomorrow night, and hopefully by Thursday..it will be done! I wish you all luck with any projects you have going on. Thank you for reading and have a marvelous Monday!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog

Peppermints

Red and white swirl together mixed with peppermint flavor and fond memories of my childhood. The scent of these hard candies on my Grandmother’s breath as she kissed my cheek and smiled when she held my face will live in my heart forever. A bowl of peppermints always sat on her table and they were continuously shared with love. Whenever I see a peppermint candy, or smell the flavoring of the plant, I think fondly of my Grandmother. With all of this in mind during the holiday season, and needing to find inspiration during commissions or competition paintings…the thought came to mind to make ornaments that looked like my memories. Placing them on my Christmas tree to photograph them for sale on my website was a true treat and a very special day. Painting them made my mind drift back into my past and several card games played with one of the most amazing ladies I have ever known.

Karen Hilliard Art | Ornament | Blissful Peppermint Number 1 — AVAILABLE CLICK HERE

One of the many things my lovely Grandmother did was work with adolescents who needed guidance. When one of them did not have anywhere to go for Christmas, she invited them to her family’s celebration. She was a remarkable woman and I am sure she shared her peppermints with the teens she shared the holidays with. No one was ever left out of her care or her love. Everyone who knew her, knew that they, themselves, were important. They knew they mattered. So these peppermint candy ornaments are my way of sharing this love and friendship with all of you. Reaching my hand out this Christmas and offering you my bowl filled with Peppermint Candies and loving memories. The true spirit of the season. Togetherness. I hope this blog finds you well and these ornaments bring happiness to your homes. Have a wonderful weekend and thank you for reading!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog

Thanksgiving in the Mountains

Grateful, thankful, blessed is an understatement for my family. Cousins truly make the best friends I could ever have imagined. Always welcoming and full of love. Thanksgiving this year was one I will treasure forever. Watching the children run around and figure out the stairs was entertaining. The food was excellent and every word spoken was kind while hilarious. There is so much to be thankful for and I feel so blessed to know these people. Being welcomed by them is one of the greatest feelings. We were fortunate enough to spend time with loved ones nestled in the snow covered mountains. The drive was wonderful as it did not snow during the trip and we had clear starry skies. When we arrived there was so much to do and explore.

We bundled the baby up like the child in the movie A Christmas Story and set out on adventures. The wind was gusty and lovely as it blew leaves around her, filling the day with pure enjoyment. The home owners had festive displays of pumpkins or Santa Claus and she loved seeing each home decorated with holiday spirit. The dog enjoyed all the new smells in the wind and the river was his favorite place to be. Many walks were taken and leaving stones along the path was beautiful. Reading other people’s messages on their stones was a wonderful experience. Painting Ornaments to say what we were thankful for created such a sweet memory we will cherish. Overall, an amazing time. I am so fortunate to call these people family. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and thank you for reading!

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog

Another Beautiful Day

Another beautiful backpacking experience through the desert near our home. We found multiple rocks and stones with different types of history intertwined within. Each one had various sediments and the stones were smoothed by wind and rain. Feeling the texture of the Earth beneath and through our fingertips was wonderful. Making shapes with our bodies with our shadows was entertaining. The shapes were followed by movement and flow with the wind. We got to watch a raven in flight and being held still in wind gusts. The fire preventative vehicles of Lake Mead drove the trail as well creating massive dust. They all waved at the baby and the dog sat while watching them pass. The gravel was deep like sand hills on a beach, for those of you that love the ocean or lakes, you know what I am talking about. It was a complete leg workout for sure. Having the dog on leash while carrying a toddler was an interesting experience.

We were fortunate to have a warming sun overhead and a cool breeze below. It was definitely hat and bundle up weather. Our favorite time to be outside for sure. The desert holds many marvelous transformations throughout the months. We went from massive heat waves to a drop in temperature quite quickly and are enjoying every minute of it. I recently made a reel, a post, with a video of the two little loves roaming about outside. I mentioned how all of us find a deep passion for the outdoors in our own ways. As an artist, I get motivated and find extreme inspiration for all my creative ventures. Motivation also pushes my ideas for knitting, crocheting, sewing, cooking, etc. Many talents to be explored for sure. I come home with so many ideas and hopefully carve out the time to complete a few. I wish you all a Wonderful Wednesday and hope you can get outside this week! Thank you for reading.

-Karen Hilliard

Tags New Blog