Trees with Bling

patchwork tube top tree bling

I snapped this shot of a couple of  "Trees with Bling".  What does it mean?  I needed to know because trees throughout my neighborhood are now sporting sweaters and patchwork tube tops.  Is this in celebration of something? A bug deterrent perhaps?  A way to repurpose old sweaters and extra fabric?  Is it a secret sign that artsy people live there?  Time for the Rustic Rabbit to investigate!

 

After having conducted a bit of research I have come to the conclusion that these "Trees with Bling" are statements of joy;  pure and simple.  They are bright splashes of color in what can often be rather gray days (did I mention I live in Seattle.)  To this I say, "Viva Tree Tube Tops!!!"  They bring a smile to my face every time I see them..

Note to self:  Simple whimsy turns drab ordinary to rustic extraordinary.

Hope this sparks some simple whimsy ideas.  Be sure and share!
Have a great day,
Amanda

Clete Shields and Willie Nelson

Today is the grand unveiling of the Willie Nelson bronze sculpture in Austin, Texas.  The sculpture is amazing. . . I know because my brother, Clete Shields, is the sculptor!  Yahoo to my little brother!!!  This guy has always had talent.  By the time he was three he was fixing my art work and making it look a heck of a lot better.  The amazing thing is that he always knew what he was going to do and has never waivered.  I, on the other hand, must have been hiding when the talent was handed out but at least I am a carrier.  My eldest son has "the talent" as well so we will see what he does with it!  Here is a really well done YouTube that chronicles the making of the Willie Nelson statue and has some great footage of Clete.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CeTq0Qd4IA
photo: Thanks to Deborah Fleming