Welcome my Friends, to Thursday's Art and Dinner Date! 😊😊
BIG POST TODAY! I HAVE LOTS TO SHARE WITH YOU!!!
🎨For our 🎨 Art Date 🎨, today's optional prompt is Complimentary Colours! Please feel free to share any art you've created, we would love to see it! Tweety Bird is ready for bedtime in his purple pj's. I chose yellow and purple for my complimentary colours today!
Life Update: I would like to just get this out in the open and never talk about it again! After 10 years, I have ended my relationship. He will be moving out by the end of May. There has been a lot of conflict and it became intolerable for me. I decided it was time for me to be the brave one and ask him to move out. It's been tough, but trust me friends...I'M OKAY. It's really for the best. I have no regrets because I know I tried everything I could to nurture and keep the relationship healthy. Please don't worry about me, I'm excited about this new chapter of my life that is about to begin!! That was hard for me to say publicly, but I know a lot of you have followed my blog for many years and I wanted to be transparent about it so I can feel free to use "I" instead of "We" from now on!! 💛💜
⬆️⬆️ I painted a flower field with acrylic paints too. This was much easier than it looks, I used the Bob Ross method for painting as well as a few little tricks for the flowers!
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| Jack and Baby Oscar in Jack's New Bed |
⬆️⬆️ Well Friends, here is the news about Jack. He has an inoperable tumour in his nasal cavity. This explains the nose bleeds, the sniffles and his sudden onset of trying to clear his throat; it explains the sudden droopy eye as well. The vet said that his wheeziness has doubled since she saw him in February which means the tumour is growing. She gave me a list of things to watch for that will let me know "when it's time". For now though, his breath rate is normal though he has some congestion. He's on codeine nightly for two reasons: so he can sleep (me too), and to suppress the cough reflex. He needs to sleep in his crate now so that he's safe while I'm sleeping. Baby Oscar is keeping him company!
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| Jack and Raven - Bed Buddies! |
⬆️⬆️ I'd like to share this with my pet friends out there. While your dog is sleeping, set your timer for a minute. Count his/her breath. Under 30 breaths in a minute is normal breathing for dogs. Anything over 30 is a concern that there could be a breathing issue. Jack is at 21 breaths per minute right now. I check him 2-3 times a day. I'm holding on to the hope that the tumour will just stop growing. One can hope right?
⬆️⬆️ I DID IT! I built my "basement garden"! I purchased 12 shop lights on Amazon and built 12 stands from 2x4's. Now I can start my seeds indoors and hopefully grow lettuces, herbs and tomatoes (fingers crossed) year round! It only cost me about $200 CAD for the entire thing. I filmed the whole thing. If you'd like to watch, I have 3 versions to share:
⬆️⬆️ Version 1: The full 28 minute video where I talk about gardening challenges and show you the build itself; and I go into detail about the supplies needed for the build. In the video notes, I have my plans that you can download as well as a written description on how to build this system: Frugal Grow Light System - Basement Grow Light Garden - 12 Stands - $200 CAD - DYI!
⬆️⬆️ Version 2: The 13 minute video where I show you the footage of the build only: Footage Of The Build Only - Frugal Grow Light System - Basement Grow Light Garden - $200 CAD - DYI!
⬆️⬆️ Version 3: The 1 minute sped up short video where I show you the build: DIY Frugal Grow Light System ($200)
⬆️⬆️ For Rain Frances Art, I'm sharing my video How To Paint A Flower Field! Acrylic Painting! Bob Ross Style! (Real-Time Art Lesson!)
⬆️⬆️ For Rain Frances Art For Kids, I have How To Draw A Ladybug ! (Art For Kids!) - Easy Step By Step Beginner Art/Drawing Lesson!
That's all for now folks! Please check out the link widget below for more 🎨 artistic 🎨 and 😋 delicious 😋 creations! See you soon!!! 💗
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Upcoming Art Prompts For Rain's Thursday Art and Dinner Date: click on the links below for a description of the prompt and inspiring images! (Prompts are optional!)
March 30th: Primary Colours
April 6th: Folklore
April 13th: Brushes
April 20th: Library
April 27th: Twisted
This art and dinner date date is all about creating. For the art date, you can showcase your paintings, drawings, photography, sculpting, poetry...whatever you like! You can follow the weekly themes or post any art you like! 🎨
And for the dinner date, please feel free to link up your foodie post! 😋
Don't forget to add the URL link to your post (not your blog) to the link gadget below to share your wonderful creations! Please revisit to make sure you don't miss those who join in a little late! All spam and non-related links will be removed! The link gadget will be available until the following Sunday at midnight!
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Rain thanks for letting us know you have decided to end your relationship. All the best with this new chapter of your life, you are so brave.
ReplyDeleteLovely art and food. Amazing work on the basement project.
Thank you Christine ♥
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about Jack, and (however much it hurts you) I know he is in the best hands for comfort and relief.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your other news too. I wish you nothing but good in your new life.
And thank you for sharing your creativity.
Thank you to YOU EC....I appreciate your comment! ♥
DeleteRain, you are strong and brave, and I am sure you will manage. It's better to end a reationship than to carry on with one which has 'gone off'. All the best to you as single super-woman! Hugs, Valerie
ReplyDeleteThank you Valerie, and it's very true. There is one thing to hold on if things start to improve, but when things just "go off" as you say, it's best to move on. I finally reached that point. ♥
DeleteLove your art today and your basement garden :) Nice job!
ReplyDeleteThanks Monica! I already have some lettuce and spinach pushing through the soil!
DeleteRain,
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to read about your relationship. Sending hugs and love to you for the new start. It'll be nice to read where this chapter leads. I must say I love Tweety's cute bunny house slippers! I use to love watching the Bob Ross show on the weekends when the kids were little. You did a nice job with your field of flowers. I'll be sure to watch your how-to video. Poor Jack! I'll say a prayer for him that the tumor stops growing. The picture of him and Oscar together is precious. Mmm, your food looks so good! And, how cool is this you build an indoor garden. This is a good idea. I can't wait to read how this works out for you. Thanks for hosting the party. You're such a talented, amazing woman. XO
Thank you so much Cathy ♥ Jack is doing well, the meds are keeping him pain-free and he's sleeping a lot now. I used to have bunny slippers that's why Tweety has some today lol! ♥
DeleteDear Rain, i wish you all the best as you venture into this new chapter of your life. May love and kindness meet you everyday.
ReplyDeleteMuch💜love
You're so sweet, thank you Gillena ♥♥
DeleteYour relationship is your business, Rain, and nobody else's. Based on someone I know, don't immediately leap into another one. She has just terminated her third mismatch!
ReplyDeleteGood advice David...there is a crude old saying "to get over someone, get under someone"....NOT. ☺
DeleteHello Rain,
ReplyDeleteYour Tweety Bird is adorable, well done. I wish you all the best with your "new" life , I think you will be fine. Sending prayers for Jack, love the photos of Jack and baby Oscar and with Raven. Your indoor garden will be wonderful, it is great to get a good head start on your plants and garden. The pizza and pasta, my favorites look delicious. Take care, have a great day!
Thanks Eilleen! I'm kind of excited about being solo! I think I'll be fine too! ♥
DeleteSo sorry to read about your relationship ending, but you are smart. If you are not happy do you want go through life being unhappy? It is too short for that. And I', also sorry to hear about Jack. Hopefully the growth will slow down. I know how hard it is to lose one's family members, no matter what the species. Your food looks yummy, and I am really impressed with your indoor gardening light system. That will be a super way to have fresh garden yummies, even when it's cold and wintery. Have a lovely Thursday and rest of your week Rain. hugs-Erika
ReplyDeleteLife is way too short Erika, that is something I think about daily. This is a good decision for me! ♥ I can't wait to see what grows down in the basement!!!
DeleteAt least you know about what is afflicting Jack now. Sometimes that alone can help, along with knowing how you can alleviate the symptoms.
ReplyDeleteThe garden set-up looks very nice. I will forward to the outcome.
Thanks TB. Yes, I'm very relieved to know what is going on with Jack, it does help a lot. ♥
DeleteThank you for mentioning your situation. It does shape us. I left my first husband in 1993. It was a shock.
ReplyDeleteYou are a strong woman, and you will thrive in a better situation. And you don't have to be strong all the time, I give myself permission to have a bad one. I have had a bad week with two clients opting for MAiD, medical assistance in dying. One on Tuesday. It has been tough.
Sorry to vent. I believe in it. I don't know why it upset me.
Good luck with your pup. You are doing so well by him. That is all anyone or a pet can ask. A good life and a good death.
Thanks Jenn ♥ I'm sorry you had a bad week. I think it's important to let ourselves grieve, cry and feel bad. Otherwise we just bottle it all up and that's not healthy. A better situation is exactly what I am hoping for!
DeleteI know you are a strong and independent woman who will thrive in single life! Wishing you much happiness and serenity to come.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Debra, I agree! ☺♥♥
DeleteGood for you taking care of yourself! Hope your future is bright so sorry about your dog. Sometimes those things happen. Great idea with your basement grow lights!
ReplyDeleteThanks Nancy, long time no speak! ☺
DeleteSo sorry to hear about Jack's condition, but he's in good hands with you (and the cat!). I am sorry, as well, about your news that you have shared, but you are already an independent, resilient woman. You will be just fine. -Jenn
ReplyDeleteThanks Jenn ♥ I know I'll be okay! ☺ I have a huge support system. I hope your health is good too!
DeleteHi sis, I love this post and you know why. I am truly sorry about Jack. I know you have given him the very best life and this part will be the most difficult. Again you have the knowledge of giving him love and care and a very good home. I love how you built the grow lights too. So nice to have the space to do it. Much love and hugs. N
ReplyDeleteThanks Sis ♥ I wish you had room for a set up like my basement...so far I've got some lettuce and spinach popping up!
DeleteDear Rain, that sounds really like a tough time, but I can understand you well. Relationships that are only full of conflicts are better ended. (My daughter just experienced the same thing.) Have a wonderful new start! ❤️❤️❤️
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry that Jack is so sick. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the tumor stops growing! In any case, it's lucky that he's loved and has nice bed buddies. Then my tip with the nose oil was probably a bit too little. (I hope you got my email reply?!)
Your food photos whet my appetite - and I cross my fingers for your "basement garden", too!
Now for your Complimentary Colours: Tweety looks lovely in purple. In my post I can offer you the combination of orange-red and turquoise-blue - these are also Complimentary Colors :-)
All the best!
Hugs, Traude 😘
https://rostrose.blogspot.com/2023/03/costa-rica-8-kapitel-nationalpark.html
I agree Traude. You know, I can rest easy knowing that I tried my best, but the conflict was too much to handle. I'm sorry your daughter went through that but we all deserve peace at home right? ♥ I left you a message that I didn't get the email you sent!!!
DeleteSorry, I think I sent the wrong link in my comment. The link to my newest post is: https://rostrose.blogspot.com/2023/03/costa-rica-9-kapitel-nationalpark.html
ReplyDeleteGod bless you my brave artistic friend!
ReplyDeleteThanks Cloudia! ♥♥
DeleteRain, thank you for telling us about ending your relationship. I find that ending something that doesn't make you happy is a good thing - too many people carry on in unhappy relationships and really lose the joy of life and living, instead become bitter and disappointed. To me you seem to be a very strong woman and you just showed that again with this step you took. I wish you nothing but the best.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to read about Jack, that must be heartbreaking for you. I am confident that he is in the best hands he can wish for and that you will take good care of him.
Your field of flowers reminds me of Ukraine - that was actually my very first thought when I saw your painting.
Carola, thank you. You really get it. I don't want to become that bitter, disappointed person who regrets not moving on sooner. I'd rather be alone than in this situation anymore. Thank you! ♥♥
DeleteYour plate is full ... some bad, some sad, but mostly wonderful creative and kind. Our lives go on and we must guide it to a place that works for us. You are a master at that and your choices are well thought out and full of wisdom. I know you will carry with you memories of the good times you have had with Alex and time will sooth the painful memories. I know you are strong and careful, but part of me worries about you being alone out in the wilderness. I hope you have some local contacts who you can call on in a time of need. Of course you have a world of friends who will be there for you including myself, so you will never be alone figuratively, but human contact is a part of the human psyche that can't be ignored. I hope in time you will find opportunities to fulfil that need. And Jack ... my heart hurt when you told us about his tumor. My pain is still raw from losing Izzi, Chachi and Fonzi ... if only time with our beloved pets were not so short. He will spend every loving moment he can with you and your kindness will allow him to leave when he needs to ... never easy. You have been blessed with many wonderful pets and you can dwell on the joy you have shared with them. Paint pictures of them and hang them where they will always be there with you. Life can be so hard. But then, there you are painting pictures of fields of flowers ( I watched your video and was amazed how easy you made it look) and cooking delicious foods that all of us would like to be able to reach into your pictures and sneak a taste. You are strong and brave and you will always thrive in spite of your painful moments. I have learned so much from you in many different ways. You are beautiful inside and out and your world will always be full of love ... and yes, love can be painful and the giving of it carries risk, but that has never stopped you. I have no doubt that you will have happiness in your future as we reap what we sow and you sow love in every way.
ReplyDeleteAndrea @ From the Sol
Andrea ♥ As I mentioned to you, I've copied your comment, and printed it out and it's now in my journal. Thank you so much for your words and your friendship! I know how you miss your babies...I look at photos of my lost furries every day and I miss them so much. Jack is doing a little better with the codeine, but I've got an eagle eye on him. I do hope he has a longer life, you're right life is much too short for them. ♥
DeleteHey Rain! I love Tweety Bird. So cute. Love seeing pictures of the pups and your pizza - amazing!
ReplyDeleteLOVE the indoor work you did. Working with timber is great fun.
Cheers and boogie boogie!
Boogie boogie Ivy! ♥♥
DeleteHi Rain, I deleted my earlier comment as I wanted to add that I am sorry your relationship has ended but wish you lots of happiness on your new chapter in life. I am though so sorry to read about my favourite, Jack, who has a tumor in the same place that my beautiful old cat Amber had, she too started with nose bleeds and was inoperable but we cared for her until our vet said we were holding her back, we ensured she reached her 18th birthday. I hope Jack will be pain free, whatever happens there is no doubt he will be secure in the knowledge of how much he is loved :) The basement garden could be mistaken for a cannabis farm! hope you don't have nose neighbours :) Take care - Betty x
ReplyDeleteHi Betty, thank you! ♥ Thanks for telling me about Amber, Jack is 17 this year...I do hope he reached 18 too. I had a pug who lived to 19 so I have high hopes. He's doing okay with the codeine, it's helping him rest very well. So far his breathing is still normal. I had to chuckle about the weed farm lol...it's actually legal here in Canada to have 3 plants I think? I can't touch that stuff though, I tried it in high school (yes, naughty Rain) and it made my world spin so I never touched it again!
DeleteThe art and the food, both look wonderful. The pic with Jack and baby Oscar is so cute, those eyes look so expressive.
ReplyDeletecheers to new beginnings!
Thank you Ira! Cheers to new beginnings!!! ♥♥
Delete...Pizzaghetti look GREAT!
ReplyDeleteVery delicious Tom!
Delete"One can hope, right?" Whatever the situation, Rain, we can always hope! My heart aches for you over Alex and Jack. It takes courage to end a relationship and strike out on your own. It can be terrifying, but you are one of the bravest and strong people that I know. You will be fine! You know I adore Jack. He is one lucky dog, because he has had you as his main love and companion throughout his life. I know that you will love and comfort him and make the best of the time he has left. How cute he is with Baby Oscar and Raven. I love your art, especially Tweety Bird's little bunny slippers. Your painting reminds me so much of a Colorado summer day on the high plains ~ beautiful! It only takes one look at your three meals to see that your favorite comfort food must be cheese. I love it too. Terry and I have cheese almost every day. Well done with your basement garden! May you have many bountiful harvests, especially in the winter. I was amazed when I saw the picture of you working on it When I saw the picture without you, the structures looked huge, and then I realized they were about half the size I first imagined. LOL! Of course I will worry about you, because I care for you, Rain! Sending you love and encouragement and a lot of hugs!
ReplyDeleteThank you Louise! ♥♥♥ You really don't need to worry about me! I made the right decision, a very healthy one! Living alone will be just fine for me. It will be hard to lose Jack...I know he's your favourite! ♥ Especially going through this relationship break up, but I know he's had the best life with me. When I adopted him in 2015, they told me he was 9 years old, that he may not have long to live, did I still want to adopt him? Hell yeah! 9 years old is just a puppy lol...I'm so grateful I've had the last 8 years with him, my little soul mate. I giggled that you thought my grow light stands were humungous lol! Thanks again Louise. ♥♥
DeleteI've changed the format of the comments to embedded on the post. I hope it doesn't kick anyone out of commenting, this is an experiment because I think it'll be much easier for me to reply to comments one by one as you have that option with the embedded comments. Let's see!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry for the poor Jack, and for the end of your relationship. I hope better days will come with springtime
ReplyDeleteThanks Kwarkito! Spring time is perfect for new beginnings. ☺
DeleteYellow reminds me of sunshine and purple reminds me of royalty. So together it makes Royal Sunshine.
ReplyDeleteCoffee is on and stay safe
Royal sunshine! I love that Dora! ☺♥
DeleteI send my good wishes as you soon start a new chapter of your life.
ReplyDeleteSaying a prayer for Jack.
Your food looks so tasty.
Take good care of yourself.
All the best Jan
Thanks so much Jan! ♥
DeleteAs you said, Rain, this post contained a lot, some sad and also forward looking. The update on Jack’s health was hard to read. The personal update, while unfortunate, is as David has previously said, your business alone and while such matters can be painful once the decision has been made, life can move on in a more positive way. Many of us many have had similar situations so there is a community of understanding here within the blogging community.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great indoor garden project and hope all goes well with the seed starting and growing. And, or course, those foods looked so comforting, but alas we are on a weight reduction plan, so only looking is allowed (sigh)..
Thank you Dorothy ♥♥ It was a hard decision and even though it's been months since I made that decision, I still have moments where I am very anxious and self-doubting. But in the end, I know it has to happen in order for me to move on to better things as you said more positive things. Oh a weight reduction plan....that wouldn't suit me at all lol!
Deletei felt sorry for your relationship being off dear Rain !
ReplyDeletei know that with the kind of magical and powerful person you are you will find way out soon though it is hard at first but with all your breathtaking talents and active life style it won't take so long i feel .
the art is marvelous ,the flower field is spectacular!!!!!!!!!
so is the food and thanks for sharing the art and building of basement garden ,looking forward to see how it works because it is totally new thing to me :)
hugs
Thanks Baili! ♥♥ It's been progressing worse over the last few years, so it was time to say goodbye. The hardest part isn't over yet though, that'll be the day he leaves I think. The grow light system...it's new to me too! I already have some lettuces growing downstairs! I'll be updating this on my blog as things grow!
Deletesorry about Jack ! wish him health!
ReplyDeleteThanks Baili ♥ I'll give him a big hug from you!
DeleteIt's always sad when a friendship ends on a bad note, but as you said, it's time to move on. Take care, my friend.
ReplyDeleteThank you Gigi! ♥
DeleteEndings are not always easy but way of life ~ you will do well I am sure ~ 'One step at a time.' ~ That is all any of us have ~ one moment ~
ReplyDeleteLove tweety, your fur persons photos, your pizza and look at that indoor garden creation is awesome ~ Xo
Wishing you good health, laughter and love in your days,
A ShutterBug Explores,
aka (A Creative Harbor)
Thank you Carol ♥ Baby steps! ☺
DeleteGood morning, Rain Good for you standing up and taking care of You-hugs. So sorry about Jack-cats are amazing to me, they know when someone is ill and give comfort. Years ago our Miss Calico Kitty knew our Nikita was very ill and slept with her til she passed. so special.
ReplyDeleteI love your videos-are you using full spectrum light bulbs? I don't know how expensive those are now but they will give you the full range of light
Your bread looks delicious. Thinking of you
Thanks Kathy! The lights are shop lights, I doubt they are full spectrum, but they have the required kelvins and lumens to act as grow lights - from my research I learned that! They were in a pack of 12, came to about $10 each though I got them on sale for $7.50 each. It's an investment for sure but I'm already seeing some results!!
Delete