Learning Book Making

 I really need to spend less time with screens and more time walking and getting other things done around here.
One thing I'm doing is making books. Exacting, frustrating, and anxiety causing projects but a satisfaction beyond measure when done!
I am having trouble keeping up in class. I have a book art project due already. I've only just got all the stuff I need. It is conceptually cool involving AMWA (The American Medical  Women's Association) and using pages of The Petticoat Surgeon.  Let's hope the execution works well! I will try to have good photos when it is done.
I just finished my hardcover with spine and three pamphlet stitched signatures book. It's not bad for a newbie. Everytime I make a cover I learn how it could be better. Despite using stacked copies of JAMA, I still drilled a couple of small holes in the kitchen table. Cal still insists on using the phone book so I could not repurpose that. Time to get some wood putty for repairs!

Staying on track with weight loss

I'm good for a few days - then...
Right now I'm good. I stick to my diet program. I'm a bit off track with the exercise part. I still do a few regimens regularly and am getting back into the routine with other activities. My neck is always an issue, but that just means I have to be careful in what and how much I do. At ant rate, exercise is only about 20% of the solution. I did get to exercise for 20 minutes today as you see from the gym clothes outfit in this late night shot in my ever-so-messy craft room
A birthday dinner and a charity event this weekend will test my resolve when it comes to food. My strategy is to use high protein low-calorie meal substitutes and limited food choices, trying hard to stay away from my favorite high calorie, high-fat treats, and meals. I measure and weigh everything and weigh myself daily. I'm a fan of Spark People. com. If you listened to episode 56 of The Digiscrap Geek Podcast you know I'm also a fan of Sunbasket.com. Here's a link if you are interested in trying their meal delivery service - Try Sun Basket.The meals are above my 250-500 calorie limit but not by much, and they are healthy and quick to prepare. It is regrettable that Cal hates green leafy vegetables. (It's like having a little 83-year-old kid around.) I appreciate the good nutrition and three cooked dinners a week, each between 500-790 calories. So, not too far past my ideal calorie intake and I try to plan my day with that in mind.
Cal does cook some healthy meals; but, his tastes run to more fattening, less nutritious options; and, on occasion, I have to say no. I know, I've said that I cannot cook, but the individual recipe cards that come with the Sun Basket meals are detailed enough to make food preparation pretty simple. I think Cal appreciates the fact that I cook, though I do notice the leafy greens in the bin.

Lots Going On

Today is an exciting day. I'm the featured guest on the podcast Shift The Story with Beca Lewis It was a very enjoyable interview experience. Check it out here When you have to let go of something you love
Several people, my husband included, have remarked on my being the busiest retired person they know. I am busy but think there are likely many who are busier, though I have said I'm not taking on any new projects more than current plans until March 2017.
I do have some plans for a new podcast venture and hope I can share those soon.
The Digiscrap Geek is on hiatus until Carrie can return and make some decisions that are needed for that podcast to move forward.
I did feel a bit overwhelmed with my studio art classes, but my City College professor was very reassuring about my ability to catch up. I got so hung up over-doing things right that I lost sight of having fun. I'm back on track now! It is fun to learn the processes in intaglio printmaking and bookmaking. They are time demanding, not physically challenging classes and I do seem to get fatigued these days. Ceramics is usually relaxing for me, but my professor is a bit tense about the class. We are making murals for the art court. I am happy it is a team effort as my physical limitations would present difficulties. I cannot throw anything well with my neck the way it is; but, sculpting tiles in bas relief is enjoyable.
I promised more about my wonderful summer vacation in Europe and am including a few of my photos with this post. These are pictures of an actual canal house I visited in Amsterdam. What is fascinating is that when the wealthy folk of Amsterdam had these, constructed it was a custom that a beautifully detailed model of the house would be a wedding gift. The detailed models cost as much as the home itself! I've also included photos of models found in museums.

Here are some photos of the miniatures of a canal house of the time