A site for my handmade cards, accompanied by my photos and written meanderings which are occasionally witty, often tongue-in-cheek, and rarely profound. Beginning in June 2013, you'll also see lots of NBUS, which is an acronym I coined for Never-Before-Used-Schtuff. Note: my Privacy Policy can be found at a tab below and you can find my NBUS Challenge online. I hope you'll join in the fun there! Thanks for coming by! Have a beverage and enjoy!

March 23, 2016

Outside My Window ~ RIP Karendipity

Hi Every Body!

I hope you are doing well and that signs of spring are budding forth where you are. Or perhaps you live where things are cooling off and fall is peeking around the corner. Wherever you are, I hope you're safe and snug. Or better yet, snuggling.

I'm feeling better and able to spend a bit more time on the computer. I can tell you that if you want to take a bloggie break, you really need to take a computer break. Otherwise . . .

I've been slowly visiting all the marvelous NBUS partypants and as I drove around Blogland, I couldn't help but see the challenges you all are playing in. I don't get too distracted if I sneak on the computer while the hamsters are sleeping, but if they are up and peaking over my shoulder, well, all kinds of creative chaos ensueciates and the next thing I know we all want to play!

So what happened was we happened to see the current challenge at Less is More is, "What's Outside Your Window?" First of all, what a fun idea for a challenge! Second of all, I just happened to have something worth sharing right outside my window this very week, so how could I not NOT join in!

Those of you who are long-time friends will not be surprised that this is my card representing my view:
We are so fortunate to have these delightful little creatures visit all year long! For my card I used a very old piece of twinkly light blue card for the sky. The watercolored hummingbird is made using a die from Taylored Expressions called "Hovering By." The sediment is from "Compact Sentiments" by Waltzingmouse. (I'm so sorry she is going out of business.)

I used a snippet of textured red paper for the feeder top and a snippet of yellow for the little tiny die-cut flowers. The holder is a snippet of mirri paper and the base of the feeder was cut from a piece of vellum using an oval die from The Stamps of Life.

I have to say that feeder base of vellum to represent water is pretty genius. You've got Hannahbelle to thank for that. She finished her dinner before the others and rode on my head over to where I keep my speshellity paper.
She ran down my arm and was bouncing up and down on my hand as I was flicking through the vellum. When I pulled out this one, thinking it was clear, she made that funny little barking sound she makes when she wants me to focus.
I mean, seriously, these hamsters are worth their trouble! I've got too many of them and I really should give some away, but the older I'm getting, the more of them I need!

Challenges

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~~~

And now let's get to what's outside my winder . . .

What happened was, the day before yesterday's day before, I was at the patio door to go out to the Playhouse and I had to stop and wait because a hummer was at the feeder. The Mister was sitting there on the couch so we both watched. We were particularly enchanted because this little dude had a patch of white on him, unlike any of the usual hummers we see.

So we watched. And we watched. And we watched. And he never moved. Well, you don't have to tell me three times. I scootched off and got the camera.

I quietly opened the patio door and walked a couple of steps out and took a coupla photos and then a coupla more steps and a coupla more photos. As I got closer and I'm talking to him, I could see that he was just a tiny baby and the white we were seeing was a fluffy baby feather.
Isn't he sweet? I was so tickled because once again ~ for the third straight time ~ I recently had a mama hummingbird build a nest where I could see it and once again ~ for the third straight time ~ a blue scrub jay came and took the eggs for breakfast. I know it's nature, but it's still upsetting to see it happen. So I don't know where this little guy came from, but we were delighted to know at least one nest had survived somewhere in the neighborhood.

Anywiddle, by now a few minutes had gone by and I'm thinking I'm the world's best hummingbird whisperer. I am close enough to reach out and touch him and you can see from the photo that he had his eyes tightly closed as if I were hypnotizing him.

(If only my brain wasn't made of hamster food, I would have been smart enough to be recording all this on camera for you. But I wasn't and so you will have to just imagine what happened next.)

All of a sudden out of right field, here came a male hummingbird. He flapped and fluttered right next to me and the baby. I involuntarily stepped back when he swooped in and then I watched mesmerized as the male hummingbird quite literally kicked the baby in the head! The baby hummer woke up with a startle and they both darted off!

It was the darnedest thing. At first I thought it was an attack, but once I saw the photos, I'm pretty sure that the tiny newling really did fall asleep and that was his daddy who swooped in. He could see that I was getting way too close for comfort so he had to get him out of there, even if he had to kick him to do it!

And that's what's been happening outside my window!

RIP Karendipity

I'm so very grateful for moments like the above that can take us to a happy place where bombs don't go off and friends don't die before their time. This is my second such loss this year and it's only March.

My PhotoYesterday, I received the very sad news that my dear bloggie friend Karen Bourke of Serendipity Dragonfly lost her long battle with cancer in the early hours of the morning. She and I hit it off when I first moved to Blogland four years ago. I called her Karendipity in that way I do and, not to be outdone, she immediately started calling me Dippy!

The news of her passing is especially sad because we were so looking forward to meeting each other in July during my trip to England and I was planning to spend two days with Karen and her husband Tony. My heart goes out to him and to her family, especially to her sister Val Nolan, who also lives in our community, over at Canonbury Creations.

I think it is so serendipitious that my post today was already written about the baby hummer because Karen loved it when I shared about them. This was what she said in a comment on a post of mine a year ago April:
"I am so jealous of your hummers - I think they are the most amazing birds but don't see any down here in Somerset!"
Rest in peace, my friend, and free of pain. I like to think that The Craft Room in heaven just got a whole lot more talented and filled with a whole lot more laughter! And I like to think you have hummingbirds perched on your shoulders!
~~~

Enjoy your day! No, seriously, enjoy! LITS ~ life is too short!

As always, thank you for coming by to visit the Playhouse and special thanks to you if you take the time to join as a follower! Please let me know you came by, so I can be sure and return the flavor!


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93 comments:

Hannelie said...

Oh Darnell, I am so sad to read about Karen as I was also a follower en visitor to her blog. Sad sad news.
I think your card is genius and I really want you to sent Hannahbelle over some time. We do share the same name (kind of ;)
Please make some extra time to watch the hummingbirds on my behalf ? They are amazing creatures.
Take care

Tracey McNeely said...

We'll talk about memorized. I just read your entire post and enjoyed every,last detail about you hummers. I love them too and I believe that will be the only feeder I can have here at my house. No more bird feeders like I had in the city we don't want to attract the bears! I love your hummingbird card the red dish is fabulous! I am very sorry to hear about your friend. So sad that cancer has taken someone else far too early. Hope you and the mister are getting better!! No fu. Being unwell!

Chrissie said...

Fabulous post, fabulous card and such a fitting tribute to Karen...a LIMette of several years standing. She will certainly be missed.
Love your hummer and remember them well from our years living in Virginia.
Thanks Darnell
Chrissie xx
LIM

kiwimeskreations said...

Oh Darnell - hugs and more hugs on the loss of your friend - Cancer sucks :-(.
Love your card, and your story about the hummers - we don't have them here, and I love to hear about them - especially to see one photographed so close up.
Blessings
Maxine

Sid said...

Fab card Darnell and my thoughts are with you !!

Jane Willis said...

Such a moving post - first you made me happy with your lovely card and your beautiful and funny story about the baby hummingbird (I am SO jealous of you - would you like to trade your hummers for my blue tits? [the birds, not the bosoms]) and then you made me sad with the news of the death of your friend. But not as sad as you must be feeling now. Sending you big hugs
Jane

baileyrosy.com said...

I was devastated to hear of Karens passing yesterday we were teamies at ATCAS and Addicted to stamping and became firm friends she was always so supportive of me during my own health problems even though her own were so serious. I loved her humour and positive attitude to life she never complained it was a joy to know her.

As for your card Darnel its beautiful you have captured the hummer perfectly mid drink. What an amazing story thank you so much for sharing it with us nature is such a wonderful thing.

Take care

Marie

Esther said...

I'm so sorry for the loss of your friend :( How very sad. From what you've said, she would have absolutely loved your card with the beautiful hummingbird and very creative way to do the feeder water (copyright Hannahbelle the hamster 2016). This is a wonderful LIM entry. Hugs x

Canonbury creations said...

Darnell, what a fabulous card, my favorite bird as well having seen them in Canada. Many thanks for the tribute to Karen so many bloggers follow you that every one will learn of her passing xxx

Stamps and Paper said...

Karen would have loved your gorgeous card Darnell....Karen was a very talented lady as well as card making she was so clever with a needle and created the most beautiful machine embroidery pictures....she was a true friend and I will miss her so much....

Anne

Suchi said...

Oh Darnell! So sad to hear about your bloggie friends- may her soul RIP! The baby hummer is really sweet and your card is really pretty! :)
Suchi xx

Linda said...

Fabulous card Darnell, you're so lucky to have these little beauties right outside your window.
So sorry to hear about Karen .... she will be missed xx

Sue said...

Hi Darnell, Love the card. The hummer is just adorable and I did laugh at it's dad waking it up:)

Sorry to read about your friend and my thoughts go out to her friends and family.

Take care. Sue

Mimi said...

Cute hummer card-- that's good medicine: craft therapy. Sad news, sending hugs to you.

Kylie said...

Hi Darnell. Well, the news has been shocking. I was devasted when I read the message from Val when I opened my eyes this morning. My heart goes out to Tony, Val and the family. I was so looking forward to meeting with her in July as well. May Karen rest in peace now and I love the thought of her in the craft room of heaven. Your post is beautiful. Take care, my friend xx

Lynn said...

My thoughts and prayers are will Karen's family. So sorry to hear this news. Just awful but thankful she is out of pain. Love your baby hummingbird so so sweet. And your card is perfection!

Sazzle Dazzle said...

A beautiful tribute card and post and perfectly fitting for your friend Darnell. I'm sure Karen will be looking down and loving your hummingbirds which look spectacular for real and in your card. Thanks so much for sharing and playing at Less is More with this one. Sarah

Cara said...

A beautiful card. So sorry to hear of the tragic passing of your blogging friend. My thoughts are with her family and friends. Sending hugs. Cara x

Carole said...

Oh Darnell... big hug...this is a goosebump post...so sorry about your friend...so sad...we must be grateful for every day we have.As for the humming bird...so beautiful and nature so clever...and we all protect our young no matter how old! On to your lovely card...fabulous as always and as the sentiment says...thinking of you! xx

Julie Tucker-Wolek said...

So sorry to hear about your friend .... so sad! LOVING the hummingbird card and photo! Beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Marcia Hill said...

Beautiful post today Darnell! Your card is just lovely and I am quite jealous that you get hummers all year long! Another month and mine should be returning and I can't wait...they are just too fun to watch! When we get a bunch of them coming all at once, they do tend to dive bomb each other and it's quite the show...unfortunately I never have my camera at the ready! I'm very sorry to hear about Karen and am sending a big warm hug to you for comfort...so hard to lose friends! Take care Darnell!!

Mrs A. said...

Sad news about Karen. I followed her blog too. Loved your story of the humming birds and super photos. We have magpies nesting in the trees opposite the house at the bottom of your garden. It's a whopper of a nest. Hugs Mrs A.

My Card Attic: Hazel said...

First off Darnell, I'm so pleased to hear you are a lot better. Secondly, I'm sorry to hear of the loss of one of your blogging friends (I don't think I have come across her blog?) Thirdly, I love your card and as a regular visitor to your blog, I can see that your card is so very apt! Finally, I wanted to say that I am so jealous of what you see outside of your window. Unfortunately, I live on the outskirts of a city and the only birds we see now are crows (they have chased off all the little birds we used to see, not that there were many, but we did see Sparrows, Blue Tits, Goldfinches & the occasional Robin) . . . now, nothing, it is so sad :( It is such a treat seeing your marvellous photographs of your visitors. Thank you for sharing them with us, I live vicariously through your marvellous photos! Have a very lovely day! Hazel xx
My Card Attic

Ruth said...

What a gorgeous card and a fitting way to remember your friend. I hadn't discovered her yet, but I am sorry to hear she has passed away. Cancer is a big fat horrid thing and takes away lovely people too early. Xx

Brenda in IN said...

How wonderful to capture a picture of the baby so up close. I think you are right about Dad protecting it. I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your friend. I'm sending prayers for her family and hope they will have comfort in this sad time. My heart goes out to them.

Linby said...

You have captured the scene perfectly on your card - fab design.
I am so sorry that you have lost a friend - so sad.

Unknown said...

As I was reading your story, I could not help but feel the daddy hummingbird came down and slapped the baby bird in the head as if to say.... "what were you thinking?? Letting that human get close enough to touch you! Have not taught you anything?!" Lovely story. Will be telling this one to my mother today when I see her. Love all your stories and fun comments. We all do!

Karen Petitt said...

Beautiful card my lovely friend. I am so very sad to hear this news, Karen was an awesome card artiste that I was in awe of. I knew if I saw any of her designs at a challenge I was too entering then I knew I was not going to be a Top 3 or Favourite at that challenge but I didn't mind because her cards were beautiful.
We also both were inspired and loved the photographs you shared of your beautiful hummers too. I absolutely adore and am obsessed with them too, they are so pretty and so very special. Sadly we don't get them here.
Thank you my lovely friend for the tip on those links - wish I'd have known about that sooner too lol! I have now started to do that. Have a lovely weekend sweet friend and please send some of those hamsters here if you are looking for a new home for some of them Karen xx

Loll said...

What a special tribute to Karen. It's so very sad and I will miss her too, Dolly. Everything you said was so beautifully worded. Lolly xx

Marianne said...

A beautiful card and post, Darnell.
Your post is making me happy and sad at the same time. I did not know Karen, but it always comes as a shock to read that a member of this wonderful crafting community passes away suddenly or (in our eyes) before her time. It also makes me thankful for the things I do have, such as a husband who is recovering well.
I'm also happy to hear your health is improving and I'm hoping you will feel a little better every day.
Marianne x

Sandy said...

Are hummers not the most fun creatures to watch? Your card captures them perfectly, and your photos are amazing. The hummers around here are very skittish and scamper when they see a human.
So sorry to hear about Karen. I don't believe I have come across her here in Blogland, but as some other commenter said, cancer sucks.

TK said...

Beautiful! -- the card, the pics, and your lovely tribute to a dear friend!

Di said...

Oh Darnell, such sad news about Karen :( I followed her too and can't recall her ever mentioning her illness (although I knew about the fact she was ill from you of course). Your words were so beautiful!

Love the little humming bird and your card is a real stunner.

Love and a big hug as I know how much this will have impacted on you.

Love

Di xxx

Di said...

I forgot to say, I always loved Karen's very unique profile photo - it looked as if she was wearing a crazy floral hat! xx

conil said...

Dear me...so sad. Losing friends,no matter how far away, is always a blow. Hope she's building a huge scrap pile in heaven. So sorry for her family's and friend's loss. Perhaps the fledgling hummingbird was visiting as a bit of solace. Your card is a fitting & clever tribute to Karen. Bless her.

Vicki Dutcher said...

Such sad news to hear about Karen! She was known in the blogging world for sure. To young and a awful, nasty disease.

Your photos are awesome - too funny he was asleep - those youngins just don't know :)

I Card Everyone said...

I'm so sorry to hear you've lost a friend, and we've lost a fellow-card-crafter, Darnell. She'll surely be with you in spirit during your London visit!
Thank you, too, for being the President of the California Clan of Hummingbird Lovers! They are so easy to love! xx
=]

Alice (scrAPpamondo) said...

So sorry for Karen... :(

Cat Craig said...

Wow, this post is so full. A fabulous card, lovely pictures, and a heartfelt tribute. Hugs to you dear Darnell.

Birgit said...

First off-love your card! It is so sweet and love how you designed it. I find it amazing how this little hummingbird flew there and you could greet him/her. This happened around the time your wonderful friend lost her battle to cancer. I am just saying...maybe this was her way of meeting you and saying "I'm OK". Life is strange and sometimes things happen that make us question. I believe you will always think of her now when you see a beautiful hummingbird.

Redanne said...

Oh Darnell, I am so very sad to hear of the death of Karen, although I did not 'know' her, I always loved reading her comments and the way she called you Dippy... I feel so very sad and like Birgit, above, it is amazing how the little baby hummer turned up around the same time....

Your hummer card is so beautiful and I see it as a wonderful tribute to your lovely friend Karen.....

Big hugs, Annie xxx

Verna Angerhofer said...

What a beautiful card you made representing the view outside your window. I love hummingbirds too and love to see them flutter about. You have my deepest sympathy too. So sorry for the loss of your friend.

Sarah said...

Sad to hear of Karen's passing but a beautifully fitting post about your humming birds xx

JoAnn said...

Loved reading your post. So sorry about your friend Karen.
Love you card and the view outside your window. Glad you are better and able to craft.

Kathleen said...

Wonderful post, sad, comical and informative.
Too far for me but hopefully when you come "up North" I will be able to meet you.
Take care Lovely Lady.

Kath x

oldpunca said...

Dear Darnell, I'm so sad to hear about your friend. I'm sure that she is on a better place now.
Amazing story happened outside your window. :-) You have created a wonderful card. Great idea to use vellum for the water.
Hugs,
Sonja

Bonnie said...

I love your hummer story, Darnell! And what an awesome photograph! Last summer our hummer feeder was taken over by bees! I hope we'll have better luck this year. So sad about Karen. She will be missed.

Craftychris said...

So sorry about your lovely friend Karen, she has been taken way too soon! Your post is fab though and she would have loved it with the awesome photo and gorgeous card! I am soooo glad you are starting to feel a bit better - take care though! I expect those hammys to keep a very close eye on you! xxx

Susan said...

Hope you found memories of your friend help you during this difficult time. Thanks for sharing your card at Less is More!

Pat said...

I love your Hummer Darnell and you have managed to capture the look of the feeder outside so well, and also I am glad that you are feeling a lot better now. You told the story of the baby Hummer so well, I felt I was there with you and a great photo you managed to get too. So sad to hear about Karen who unfortunately I didn't really know but she sounds like she was a lovely lady and shouldn't have died so young! My heart goes out to her husband and family. x

nancy littrell said...

Your tribute to Karendipity will be treasured by Karen's family and friends. Karen will be watching over everyone with her constant beautiful hummer companion on her shoulder..both smiling:-)

Cheryl W. said...

Your story about the baby hummer is so poignant, given the sad news about your friend Karen. You have my sincerest sympathy, Darnell. Thank you for sharing your lovely card and for being such a tender soul.

Lisa Elton said...

Love your beautifully colored hummingbird and the precious real life baby hummer! How funny about the dad giving him a kick!! I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your friend Darnell, God bless her soul.

Patti said...

Delightful card and such a wonderful story of your napping hummer! : )

So glad you are back Darnell. Here is a BIG (((Hug))) in sympathy for the loss of your friend. I'm sorry you won't get to meet her but I'm sure it really brightened her last days planning the meeting. You'll do something silly in her honor when you get there : )

Patti

Ros Crawford said...

Sad news indeed and I really love what you said about the craft room in heaven ... I've never seen a hummer either and your story is amazing ... can't imagine me kicking my son in the head to wake him up haha! Fabulous card by the way ... those hamsters are so ingenious!

Olga Fink said...

I am so sorry for your loss Darnell! such sad news! sending prayers to you and her family! As we say in Greece to the loved ones of a person lost "May you live to remember her!"
but what an amazing blog post you have here today! I enjoyed so much reading it!
your card is gorgeous as usual!
xoxo Olga

OH Babs said...

I loved your hummingbird story. Is it possible baby bird was a message from Karen? What a sweet and kind story you shared with us. Your card is a lovely remembrance. Hugs from another friend, BBB

Greta said...

So sad--we keep loosing friends. Does make me appreciate each day & realize how good I have it. So happy you're feeling better, Darnell! What a wonderful experience with the hummers & to see a baby--wow! Use of the vellum is indeed genius! Hugs, Greta

Maura said...

So sorry for the loss of your friend, Darnell! But she would be so tickled to have you write about your hummingbirds in tribute to her. Thank you for always reminding all of us of life's preciousness!

Maura said...

So sorry for the loss of your friend, Darnell! But she would be so tickled to have you write about your hummingbirds in tribute to her. Thank you for always reminding all of us of life's preciousness!

Gerrina said...

Your baby hummingbird is so sweet and the vellum is awesome!
I would like to believe that Karen now has all the time to get so many ideas and enjoy them without pain... You made her a beautiful tribute! Hugs, Gerrina

Sarah G said...

It was lovely to see your fabulous card over at Less Is More, Darnell and I loved reading about the hummingbirds in your garden - how wonderful! So sorry to hear of Karen's passing - she was so talented and so supportive to others. Your post is a joy to read. Thank you for sharing it with us all at Less Is More x

Geri said...

Awesome post. I smiled and I cried when I read about Karen. We so need to live each day to the fullest.

The hummer pics are amazing! Really cool that daddy hummer tuned the little fella in!

Your card is delightful. Love the sentiment and LOVE 'velum water'...so clever!!!

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your friend Darnell. I wish I had known her, she sounds wonderful! I love hummers and have a number of feeders outside my front door :-) Your card is a beauty! Happy Easter!

Susanne Vargas said...

Wow! That post had a little of everything - card, nature story and photo, as well as some sad news.
Your card is fabulous! I have to admit that the vellum "water" is pretty brilliant!
Gorgeous humming bird picture! That little white feather is so cute! Can't believe how close you got! Bit too close for Dad, though, huh?
So sorry to hear about Karen! My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends!
Happy Easter to you and your family,
Susanne

MRS DUCK said...

Hi Darnell
So sorry to hear about your friend. I remember looking at the blog of your other friend andhoping that dear Bobra was being looked after..
Your card and live hummer are delightful.
We have a blackbird family nest in our garden and Dad usually brings the kids for feeding and often they come into the house!
You take care.
Ang x

Kim Heggins said...

Darnell...so sorry to hear about your friend, sending my prayers and thoughts for her family.
Your card is just beautiful. Love your sweet hummingbird.

Barb said...

I'm very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear friend Darnell.

Your card is very pretty and I really enjoyed hearing the story of the baby humming bird and what a sweet photo.

I'm glad to hear that you are now feeling a little better. I wish you and the Mister a Happy Easter. Barbxx

Angela Walters said...

I am so sorry for your loss, Darnell, and for all those who knew her. I'm glad you're feeling a little bit better. Please feel free to email me if you need to talk. I would make you a card, but I'm still not quite there yet. Hopefully it won't be long. Have a Happy Easter!

Anonymous said...

Sorry to hear of your friend's passing.

Your card is lovely - adore the pic.

:)

G Peplow said...

Hi Darnell, Your LIM card is simply fab, great work with the feeder, ingenious. Thehummers are just gorgeous birds and I totally envy you, them visiting you all year, WOW.
Awful news about Karen, cancer is the pits and my lovely friend Valerie has lost a much loved sister.
Well I hope that you enjoy your holiday weekend and are feeling loads better, hugs Gay xx

Aileen said...

Such a beautiful card Darnell, love how you added that shadow and what a wonderful story. I love that you share your humming birds too as they dont grow in Australia or at least I have never seen one.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. I can only image your heartache and wish you strength to get through the loss. My heart goes out to her family and they are in my prayers.

Laurie Unger said...

What a wonderful card and moment. I glad you captured that wonderful hummer with your camera as well. Happy Easter.

Helen F. said...

Oh Darnell, I am so sorry to hear this sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with you, her friend, and Karen's family. It's terrible to lose our loved ones, but thankful they are out of pain.
I LOVE your baby hummingbird photo, so very sweet. And your card is beautiful! Happy you and Kevin are feeling better...Wishing you a Blessed Easter.

Rose said...

A beautiful card Darnell & such a lovely take on your real life experience.Your photo of the baby hummingbird is stunning & I loved your story of how it came about. I think it's nice that you got so lost in the special moment & didn't end up recording. So sorry to hear of the loss of your friend. You've had a rough start to the year & I hope your memories will help to ease your sorrow.

Sybrina K said...

Darnell. What a pretty card that Karen would have surely loved. Thoughts and prayers to Karen's friends and loved ones.

Liz said...

Lovely card - perfect for the LIM challenge. Your little feathered visitor is so cute - wish we had some of those little hummingbirds in the UK.

So sorry to hear the sad news of your blogging friend. Taken too soon. xx

Claire said...

A lovely tribute post to your blogging friend Darnell - so sorry to hear of your loss. I'm sure she would have loved your card..such a clever design xx

Cris G. said...

I'm happy that you are feeling well, Darnell! I can see it by your beautiful card. It must be such a privilege seeing those lovely and fragile little birds so often.

I didn't know Karen, but it's always sad to see good people go. RIP Karen!

Hugs,
Cris

Neets B said...

What a gorgeous card, you are so lucky to have these little hummers in your garden, just damn seagulls here on the coast of southern England! No beauty there! I was so sad to hear of Karen's passing, no doubt they have beautiful hummers in heaven so she will be made up!

Thanks so much for sharing your card at LIM and ATSM this week xx

Carole Pollard said...

Happy Easter and what a post those photos are stunning would love such colourful birds in my garden. Your card is perfect it reflects the view from your window perfectly. I am very sad to hear about your blog fiend a very dark day for her family Enjoy the rest of the weekend love and hugs Carole x

Cathy said...

Wonderful card Darnell and I love the hummer story, fabulous pic too. So sorry to hear of your friend's passing, Cathy x

Tina Z. said...

great card and I love your story about birds.
I am so sorry to hear of your friend's passing.
Hugs, Tina

Meihsia Liu said...

Love your beautiful card! The image is so pretty. Thank you so much for sharing with us at Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge. :)

wienerhoneymooners said...

wonderful post Darnell. I love how close you are to all that you meet. So special. You will always be reminded of your close friends with wonderful things in nature.

Lou said...

What a beautiful tribute to a special friend. An amazing garden visitor recreated perfectly. Lou x (Guest designer at LIM)

Brenda said...

Wow! Wow to both your card and to your sweet little visitor!! I love how your card came out. You sure do have some great little Hamster that help you out Auntie!! I need me some Hamster. I have never seen a hummer fall asleep before! Your pictures are so cool and I love that you were able to get that close to him like that. We will have hummers all summer long, and they say we have some that stay around in the winter too, but I've never seen them. I think you are so lucky to live where you have them year round. I can't believe his daddy kicked him in the head. lol I guess he had to do what he had to do to protect that sweet little one from the human. Now, I've never seen a feeder like yours! I am loving it!! Makes much more sense than the kind we have. I need to do me some research and find me one like that. I so love watching the hummers come to the feeders. Yes, I'm playing catch up again and it is going to tak eme a while too! Hugs, Brenda

Princess Judy Palmer said...

What a sweet post about your blogging friend. Too many friends are leaving too soon! I've showcased several freebies from a friend on my blog lately and those gifts were all given because that clock is winding down as well. So sad.

Your hummingbird card is too cute. I love hummers. They are the very definition of flighty. We have no foliage now in the new home so while we don't have to worry about roots in the sewer or trees toppling onto the house we don't get wildlife for visitors either. Loved hearing how papa hummer gave junior a kick. Too cute! Human papas need to take note!

Marybeth said...

I am so sorry for your loss of your friend Darnell! I know that it still hurst even though you never met. A few years ago we lost a bloggy friend to cancer as well and it hurts.
Your humming bird story is amazing and how cute is that one little fluffy white feather. We have our feeder above the hose and I can tell you it gets pretty scary sometimes when they bomb dive at you head. I have to remind them who puts out the food.
Hugs to you.

Tracie Pond said...

Hello Darnell, Thank you for stopping by my blog recently and leaving me a sweet comment. Isn't nature amazing?! I am so happy you shared your hummingbird story. I love them too. We do not feed them. They are attracted by all of our flowers. Sometimes when I am out in the gardens they fly by and actually startle me. I am not afraid of them, it just amazes me how close they come. Hope you are having a nice week. Hugs, Tracie

Jen W. said...

Oh, Darnell, I'm so sorry to hear about your friend. It makes me crazy that we can send people into space but we can't figure out how to stop cancer. It such a wretched disease that affects far too many of us. Big hugs to you, my friend.

And thank your for sharing your hummers and all the other wonders of your garden with us. Like Karen, we don't have hummers here so it's lovely to experience them through your eyes.

Anita in France said...

I'm so very sorry to hear about Karen, Darnell ... she was one of my first visitors (she came over from your place) and was so supportive as I found my way in blogland ... keeping her and her family and friends in my prayers.

Beautiful photo's of that baby hummer and such a lovely event for you to witness ... albeit a smidge dramatic at the end! Your card is fabulous ... love how Hannahbelle is such a help! Miss you loads! Hugs & bisous, Anita :)

JD/ Jill said...

So sorry to hear about the loss of your blog friend.
I so enjoyed reading the fun posts the two of you would pass back and forth.

great card and photos...thank you for sharing.