52 Projects is an adventure in discovery. Every week, for 52 weeks, do something. Something you’ve never done before. Something you’ve always wanted to do. Something that scares you. Something that inspires you. Something that inspires others. Something that tickles your fancy. Something that caught your eye. Something that just popped into your head. It can be big. It can be small. It can be whatever you want it to be. Find out how doing something can lead you to discover things about yourself, your world, your God. Then, come here on Sundays and share it with others. I'll write about mine here, you write about yours on your blog, then use the tool in my post to link to your something. Please feel free to jump in and participate anytime throughout the year!

Jane


Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Update for Week 19: decorated bird house


Yesterday afternoon around 4pm I finally got to finish my project. Breen drilled all the scrabble tiles for me and I strung them on to copper wire with faux pearls between each letter. The bottom portion of the cage has four sides so I selected four words carefully.
Freedom: Breen suggested that I string Freedom across the front of the cage above the little door that stays permanently open. I loved this idea. This is also the side of the cage that faces our porch. When I sit outside and look over to the bird cage it reminds me that I have freedom to make better choices about how to deal with my neighbor. It reminds me of the freedom I have to fly outside of my little self-imposed cage and experience the wonder of adventure.

Karma: this word is strung across the side of the cage that faces my neighbor. It serves as a reminder that karma has something to do with this living situation and the lessons to be learned from it. If I don't pay closer attention, we'll just keep being presented with other neighbors like her wherever we go.

Peace: this word faces the street. I like to think of peace spreading out to all of our neighbors and people who pass by.

Love: this word faces our front door and I think it's obvious that love lives inside.

I also tried a new cloth bird when I had a little more time and patience. While Breen drilled the tiles, I whipped up another little cloth bird and this time I think he turned out well. I've got him sitting on a branch half way up the cage. I found the bird project here and I'm sure you'll fall in love with these sweet little creatures too. You can download the free pattern.


I only wish that bird cages were easier to photograph because the shots here hardly do mine any justice. I think the cage looks better in person but maybe you'd have to come visit us to see :) Trust me though when I say that it's a nice sight to see on my front porch.

8 comments:

  1. ~jane...your cage and words are adorable...words that speak loud and clear of such positive intentions...l♥ve it!! warm wishes and brightest blessings~

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  2. what a wonderful piece! I love the stringing of letter tiles/words (which maybe could change as mood/motivation shifts?) and fantastic bird! Small is always harder on a sewing machine! i love that fabric!!

    Well done project! I always enjoy seeing what you come up with :)

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  3. Love it! I have a little bird that came in my quilt magazine for a future project :) so now I know it is a bit harder than I thought. The words you picked were just perfect :)

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  4. Thank you for allowing me to drill your tiles.

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  5. MrB, you talkin' dirty?

    Jane: love the little curvy birdy best. You need a sewing machine to do it? That'd count be out until maybe Project 47 or something. Nice job!

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  6. what a great bird cage...now i'd be inclined to put a real bird in it...but i love the idea of it being an ornamental piece. I have one of my mil's in the backyard all rusted...but it think it'd take a solid week to scrub it up. It certainly isn't easy doing a different project every week, especially if you're trying something for the first time and intend on continuing. i've yet to think of something different for next week, but i do have something in mind.

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  7. Mine is in! Better late than never!

    Love your birdcage Jane. I love the strung words. Great suggestion, Breen!

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