In appreciation for fresh pie ~ stained glass for the chef's gals

3D for L
by Wayne Stratz

 For several months this past year we celebrated the local harvest through the creative talents of a friend who happens to be a pastry chef (amazing food recipes found there). 

 It started with rhubarb and wound it ways through strawberries, blueberries, apples, peaches, back walnuts, raspberries, ...  Margaret and I would go over on a Tuesday or Wednesday night and eat pies and tarts (sometimes with homemade ice cream) and drink coffee.  The latter was too late and I would wake up to go teach with a "pie hangover."

Maybe sometime around July when the pie maker walked us outside, I told him my way of thanks... stained glass for his wife and two daughters.  The youngest (a senior in college, who was a pleasant addition to those summer pie nights) got the blue and green 3D piece that greeted you.  The daughter who teaches little ones got this 3D piece ~

3D for M
by Wayne Stratz

 As for my friend, Red (the wife of said Chef), well she has always been a fan of my Wernersville Cross and my patchwork designs, so I thought the Wernersville Cross II should be introduced to the world by way of gift.  So here folks is the one and only cross of this type.  I will make more, I think, but for now I am so glad to know where the first one resides. (and yes, every one has 21 pieces)

Wernersville Cross II
by Wayne Stratz

Epiphany Stars ~ studio goals for 2013

At our last show of the year, a man was clearly disappointed by a lack of stars. At some point between that moment and Epiphany, I decided to draw three new star designs when Epiphany arrived they were ready to leave my head.

I was not feeling the best that day, but good enough to use a pencil. The first batch is done. I am thinking seven batches for the year. 21 stars. Once I have a flock, I am going to walk on down to the Virago Bakery and put them on display.

A Few of My Favorite Things 3 ~ 21 Hopes

collaboration between
Wayne Stratz and Margaret Almon

1. I hope that when I enter my studio something beautiful will emerge
2. I hope that after a day of teaching I have the gumption to create something in the kitchen
3. I hope that my students will experience joy and just maybe realize how cool science is
4. I hope to celebrate a 50th wedding anniversary
5. I hope to make pizza for 60 people this year or come dang close
6. I hope to commission art
7. I hope to watch friends heal when life makes them weary
8. I hope to learn to really listen to people
9. I hope to one day love all colors even chartreuse and mauve
10. I hope to teach others how to make strudel just as my mom-mom taught me
11. I hope that migrating birds find a safe place to hang out at the other end
12. I hope to never lose the joy of music touching my heart
13. I hope that things worth saving are saved
14. I hope that people experience less hatred
15. I hope that Mosaic Woman can continue to be a stay at home artist
16. I hope that I let my life unfold into the mystery and not try to hard to control its path
17. I hope that my house keeps me warm and dry
18. I hope to see the Oregon coast again
19. I hope that I take the time to watch a bird which has allowed me the pleasure to see it
20. I hope my doubts fade, but never completely
21. I hope to sing these words on many more Christmas Eves at my current church ~

Long lay the world in sin and error pining,

'Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of HOPE the weary world rejoices, 

For Yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

The Call of the House Number Signs

It has been quite awhile since I cut a piece of glass, well it seems like it has been a long time.  But as I focussed on drawing cards, Margaret moved forward on some commissions that did not involve me.  But now three house numbers are priorities and I am looking at a five day weekend.  I think I got some numbers in me, what do you think?  

Even some thought to be unlucky.  I can't wait for a request for a 21 to come my way.  Order yours here

Rules

My classroom wall 2007

 Rules

1. Leaves of three. Leave them be.
2. Spread joy. Be exuberant.
3. Attempt the task which you fear.
4. Help other to discover success.
5. Emerge into the person you desire to be.
6. Work with tools. Play with toys
7. Be filled with hope.
8. When plans get changed, see where the new plan takes you.
9. You can disagree and be pleasant at the same time.
10. Attempt to answer big and small questions.
11. Be Mindful.  The present moment is a fine place. 
12. Forgive your teacher, your classmates, and yourself. Accept the imperfections we all have with grace and kindness.
13. Accept your fate and work with your assigned team.
14. Question accepted truths. It is the way science improves.
15. Be creative with flowers, thoughts, and colored pencils.
16. Live a long life. Avoid eating house plants and leaves of nightshades for that matter.
17. Wonder why and how.
18. If you have tried and failed , then try again or ask for help.
19. Be aware of how your emotions are affecting how you behave.  
20. Understand this, that Mr Stratz enjoys being a teacher. Your behavior controls how much he can teach. 
21. And finally... Enjoy the jazz.

Drawing Cards again and again

warm collection of cards
by
Wayne Stratz

My Lenten practice of drawing cards has led to new directions besides my surprise gifts at work.  Mosaic Woman has printed out the names and addresses of the 144 people, who not only gave us their e-mails but also provided things like their house number and zip code.  And there I go counting by 21's again and sending out surprise gifts  from the local post office.  Want to be on the list... sign up here (form is on the right above the floating testimonials).

At a recent craft show a friend showed up and wondered why I had shown up with none of my cards for sale.  So moving in that direction I decided to place something on etsy.  Do you know someone who could use one of my cards of hope or joy or love or peace?

... check out my listing and I will draw one especially with them in mind and spirit.

21 words , 21 mosaics

Hope in the Dessert
Wayne Stratz and Margaret Almon

There is something emerging in the two studio one bedroom row of Nutmeg Designs.  Margaret and I are planning a big project and you can help us by letting us know what words you would like us to create out of glass...


Thanks for sharing your opinion (remember, hit submit)

brought to you by the number 21

ever since reading about the 21 attributes of Wisdom, it has become my favored number.

I use it to pick out things.

today it led to this... 21st Christmas Song on I-Tunes.

and this photo...