“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” ....Oscar Wilde

Thursday 18 October 2012

A double whammy...WOYWW (#176) and APR ~ Stargazing







I never thought for one minute I'd be able to spend any time drawing during this holiday, even though I did pack my journal and pens...but surprisingly a window of opportunity appeared this afternoon and therefore I seized it!
Hubby has gone off for a game of golf with our kind host so whilst the golfer's away...the artist can play! https://secure.quebles.com/content/hotmail/emoticons/1508618.gif

Then the difficulty begins because I've seen so many wonderful sights over the last few weeks both here and in Australia whilst on holiday that have taken our breath away...amazing views, scenery, truly inspirational sights...so where do you start?

Then I remembered it was Wednesday....
Julia's WOYWW (What's on your work desk Wednesday) would be a great place to start. I normally enter each week to have fun snooping visiting other desks around the world and I did have a beautiful desk a few days ago which I thought you all might like to see...
So although I'm incredibly late I'll pop over to enter. Why don't you take a peek too?
(I have to apologise to all my visitors because I've not visited anyone since starting this holiday. 
I know that's just rude...but I do always reply to my visitors but I'll make up for it once I get home. Promise!
To make up for it...I've decided that I should have a 'giveaway' as a reward for your loyalty! Then I'll try and catch up with everyone...) 

I didn't produce any work sitting here...but then look who would want to work! 
I just enjoyed sitting there relaxing!

I'm being super sneaky maximising my time whilst I have some...so I'm entering into Jenn's Artist Playroom challenge at the same time. This week Jenn's topic is stargazing and other than staring up at the amazing night sky here in Whangamata on the Coromandel Peninsula I didn't really think I could enter.
But then we were discussing the differences between the Australian flag and the New Zealand flag... 'Eureka' the flags both have stars on them! LOL (how's that for thinking outside of the box Jenn?) 


It's funny that sometimes you look at something but don't really see it properly...but once you start to open your artist eye things change. Details become far more clearer.

The New Zealand flag is blue with the Union Jack (the flag of the United Kingdom) in the upper hoist-side quadrant. Four red five-pointed stars edged in white are centred in the outer half of the flag. The stars represent the Southern Cross constellation.
Notable points of difference between the two national flags: the New Zealand flag has nothing in the lower hoist-side quadrant (occupied by the Commonwealth Star in the Australian flag) and its Southern Cross comprises four five-pointed white-edged red stars (whereas all the stars in the Australian flag are white).

Now I do hope that no-one will be offended by my artists impression of their National Flag...I do know how sensitive these things can be...but forgive me this once!

I had to nip to the local shops to try and find a blue and red pen...the only ones I could find were Stabilo which have done the job but oh what I wouldn't have given for a larger nibs!

I couldn't resist adding the little kiwi onto the page...they're New Zealand's endangered, indigenous flightless bird...they are a little strange but so adorable. 
If you haven't heard or seen one before here are a few facts....

  • The Kiwi cannot fly, and lives in burrows on the ground.
  • Its diet is mainly worms, spiders, bugs, grubs and fruit.
  • Kiwi's mate for life, some have been together for 30 years.
  • A Kiwi's egg is large compared with the size of its body (An egg averages 20% of the females weight, compared to 2% for an Ostrich).
  • The female is larger than the male. In some varieties the males are the ones that sit on the egg.
  • It is the only known bird to have external nostrils at the end of its beak, and one of the few birds to have a good sence of smell. At night a Kiwi can often be heard making snuffling noises, which is caused by the bird trying to clear dirt out of its nostrils when it is searching for food.

    OH NO....the golfers return... 
    That's it folks until the next time. 
    Have a great week and I apologise Julia  for the long post...I know it's supposed to be short but I'm late so maybe no-one will be out there and notice?

42 comments:

  1. OMG, that kiwi is so cute!! I looked up the kiwi bird to see how big etc he is and you did a great job in capturing him.

    I love the flag, glad you had a small nib, I think it adds movement with all the lines etc.
    Much love,
    Jenn

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    1. Because I was rushed for time I think it loosened it up a little which is something I definitely need to work on...so for that reason alone it was a good exercise. ;D
      Yeah...small nib certainly got things moving!

      Thanks for the challenge...you keep pushing my boundaries...which is what it's all about.

      Isn't the kiwi a strange little cutee?
      We hope to see one before we leave. I think there's a place on our agenda which may tick that particular box.
      You'll certainly hear about it if I do :D

      Have fun in the playroom and I'll catch up with you as soon as time allows xoxo

      Delete
  2. Sounds like you are having a lovely time...and doing a fine job of fitting so much in! That little porch is lovely, as is your depiction of the flag and that cute little kiwi!

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    1. We are indeed Cameron...but it's tough! ;D (LOL)
      Thanks for stopping by and commenting...I really appreciate it.

      The porch was just perfect but each place we stay at has something different to offer.

      I'm having a brilliant time and don't want it to end. :D

      I hope your week is going well and you have a wonderful weekend whatever you have planned ~ enjoy!

      Delete
  3. Glad you are enjoying your holiday, and of course we don't expect you to visit us whilst you're away!! Helen, 4

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    1. Oh thank you Helen...I feel so much better now. I felt so guilty but now I have a pass I can relax ;D

      I hope you have a great weekend with lots of fun and creativity ~ enjoy! :D

      Delete
  4. Golfers return? Isn't that a pub?? really enjoying your holiday, and yep, that particular work desk needs no work, beauty everywhere! don't worry about visits, holidays and recharging are far more important!

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Hehe...could be Julia, golfers return does have that kinda ring to it doesn't it?

      Glad you're enjoying your virtual holiday...I know we are in reality!
      I thought you might like to see the desk so couldn't help but show you.

      Thanks for the pass on visiting...I'll make up for it when things are back to normal!!! (LOL)

      Ha...normal what's that?

      Have a great WOYWW and say 'Hi' to everyone for me :D

      Delete
  5. I think that porch would have induced a very long nap for me! I love your little Kiwi! Hubby is very keen to visit NZ. I think it would be exciting to see some of the places where they shot Lord Of The Rings. Soooo beautiful. Enjoy!

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    1. Hi there,
      I'm so happy that you joined me especially if it was on Hubby's list. I really think you should nip over here...you'd love it!

      You'd have to do the South Island to see those locations but both the North and South are special.
      We'll do the South on another visit ;D

      Yep I'll try my best to continue to enjoy but I'll make sure I pass some of it on to you.

      Have a wonderful weekend...whatever you have planned and I'll catch up with you soon :D

      Delete
  6. Very clever to think of the flags and I love that cute little kiwi. It's nice to have some time to yourself, even on holidays. Enjoy your time and don't eat too much :)
    Von

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    Replies
    1. Too late Von...I'm about to pop!
      We're having three wonderful meals a day that really can't be matched.
      I'm seriously searching for elastic waistbands now! None in my case so there could be a problem looming ;D

      'POP' there's she goes......
      x

      Delete
  7. Looks like you are having a super time! Loving seeing your photos, makes me feel like I am there too. If only! Take care lovely. Zo xx

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    Replies
    1. I'm so glad to hear you're enjoying being here with us ;D
      I have so much more to post but just haven't had the time yet.

      I hope your weekend will be a great one...whatever you have planned.
      Enjoy! :D

      Delete
  8. Just a whole lot of wonderliciousness, Neesie!! You go on and enJOY your Holidays. I loved learning so much and think your kiwi is splendid. Intrigued by your flag insights. Does make a person ponder, eh?!

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    1. Wonderliciousness indeed Currie, ;D
      I'll try my best to carry on enjoying but it can be such hard work sometimes (lol)

      I always think it's great to add a few facts along the way.

      The kiwi is a very strange bird but yep very cute!
      We're hoping to see one in the flesh whilst we're here.

      Thanks for stopping by ~ I really appreciate it and will visit once we're home...promise!

      Have a wonderful weekend with lots of creativity! :D

      Delete
  9. I love the flag and the kiwi. I didn't know very much about them, but I liked the random facts!

    I hope you are having a wonderful vacation!

    Happy WOYWW (on Thursday - or is it Friday already over there? Its only Thursday morning in Chicago!)
    Katie #121

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    1. Hello Katie,
      Thanks for popping over to my place and leaving a comment.
      I'm glad you enjoyed your visit ;D

      Well it was Friday when I read your comment but its now Saturday now I'm relpying...the time just flies by when you're having fun!

      Enjoy WOYWW and have a great weekend whatever you have planned. :D

      Delete
  10. Oh what a delightful chill out corner that is. Just put your feet up and enjoy!! PS I love the little kiwi! x Jo

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    1. Hi Jo,
      I think the kiwi has to be one of the strangest but cutest birds around ~ I love the shape ;D

      We've moved on from that particular verandah, but today I've woken with a wonderful view of a lake...I woke early and nipped outside to take a few photos.

      Maybe able to post later although breakfast is calling!
      Serious amount of eating going on and my waistband is seriously challenged!
      Have a fantastic weekend and thanks for stopping by. :D

      Delete
  11. Aren't you the clever one? I'm at a loss with celestial and then I see everyone's clever interpretations and think I should be able to find SOMEthing....however, time is short and I'm still lacking ideas. So glad you're enjoying yourself and still finding a little time for art in some form!

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Well the idea just sort of popped into my head! It certainly was thinking outside of the box for sure! I think I just got away with it ;D
      Not sure I'll manage the next one though and I do feel guilty about not visiting...but there's only so many hours in a day as you well know.
      I'll peep into the playroom to see if you manage to submit anything...good luck! :D

      Delete
  12. Fab flag picture Neesie, the movement is incredible and of course the wee Kiwi is sooo cute! Thanks for the details about them, I had no idea they lived in burrows! Wow! Shame your solitude was so short lived, but, on occasion, any little peace is gratefully received huh ;-D Hope you're still managing to enjoy yourself ;0)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It was all a little rushed as I had to make the most of my little time alone...and I must admit I was surprised when they reappeared!
      It's amazing how time flies when you're engrossed in doing some artwork isn't it? ;D

      Thanks for stopping by again...I'm glad you liked the kiwi and random details.

      Hopefully I might get to post later today but we'll see :D

      Have a wonderful weekend ~ enjoy xoxo

      Delete
  13. What an amazing place Neesie, looks like a perfect place to curl up with a good book, or have a snooze! How on earth did you swing business class on the flight over!! I'm jealous!

    Hugs
    Brenda 3

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    1. I have no idea Brenda...I wish I did because I'd be sure to do it for everytime we fly.
      (Airmiles might have had something to do with it ;D)

      We've moved on from that beautiful verandha but we're staying some other great locations which I may get to post!
      This holiday milarky takes some planning :D

      Have a wonderful weekend whatever you're up to ~ enjoy!

      Delete
  14. Gorgeous little Kiwi! so cute love the flag... That porch Nessie. I would have a had a wee sleep It looks so inviting... Enjoy your holiday and DO eat & drink lots!!! Hugs May x x x

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    1. There's no problem on the eating front May...although my waistband does appear to have a problem...it's just too tight!!!! :$

      We just seem to be going from one gorgeous meal to the next. I feel I may 'pop' at any moment. Checking in my suitcase for elastic waistbands but there doesn't appear to be any.

      We've moved on from that place now but each new place we stop at has equally wonderful attributes and the scenery between stunning if only I could get to show you!
      I'll try my best...but I may be a little late.
      Enjoy your weekend :D

      Delete
  15. It sounds like you are having a truly wonderful holiday, Nessie. I would like to be sittng enjoying that beautiful spot with you.
    As always, your artwork is just beautiful. I love the little Kiwi.
    Happy WOYWW
    Hugs Lisax #84

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    1. I'm sitting in yet another beautiful spot Lisa...that I'll share later with you perhaps ;D
      I've been here since dawn appreciating it all.

      I actually saw two kiwi but we were not allowed to use either phones or cameras. They have great hearing so we had to creep about without making a sound and with no lights but it was so special!
      They look even more bizarre when watching them go about their business but sooooooo cute.

      I need another cuppa now ~ have a great week and thanks for stopping by. :D

      Delete
  16. Neesie, it sounds as if you are are having a lovely time away. Glad you are posting for WOYWW anyway -- so nice of folks to go golfing so you can draw. I love your little kiwi bird. Happy WOYWW from Laura #153

    ReplyDelete
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    1. I know wasn't that kind of them...I also got a pressie before to keep any guilt at bay! ;D

      I didn't think I'd be posting to WOYWW or APR so that was a surprise and a little rushed.

      Thanks for popping over Laura ~ I hope to catch up when I return to see what you've been up to. Have fun in the meantime :D

      Delete
  17. Sounds like you are having a wonderful time!I love that front porch, looks cozy! The kiwi is adorable! waving hi from the hills of North Carolina :)

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    1. You better believe it Sandee,
      We've waited quite a while for this break but now we are making the most of it!
      I saw a kiwi two nights ago and he came so close we could nearly touch him. They are so funny to watch ;D

      Great to see you and I'll pop over to you when I can ~ promise!
      In the meantime have fun and I'll wave to you from the middle of an olive grove on the hillside overlooking panaramic views. Ahhhhh.....
      :D

      Delete
  18. Awww, your flag totally makes me miss the Southern Cross... who knew that even stars would "creep into your being". And that (cute) Kiwi gives me a totally different vision of the All Black rugby team... no wonder they need the Haka - the Kiwi is too cute to instill fear! (Sorry, just had to poke fun.)

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    1. It is amazing isn't it Minnemie,
      I'm so tired of hearing the words, wow, awesome, wonderful, amazing, incredible etc...I need to source some more words to discribe these ******* (you choose the word) wonders! ;D

      In terms of natural wow factors New Zealand is bountiful.

      I'll pop over to see what you've been up to soon I promise.
      In the meantime I hope you have a great week with lots of creativity.
      xoxo

      Delete
  19. Yes, you did think outside the box for APR - and a good think it was. The little kiwi in the corner is the perfect touch. I didn't make it to APR this week and don't even have the excuse of being on vacation.

    Darla

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    1. Hehe thanks Darla,
      I was quite pleased with the idea but not necessarily with the end product!
      I couldn't resist putting in the little guy. They are just so unique. In fact there's lots of that here.
      I'll catch up with you soon.

      Have a great week and hopefully you'll be able to play in the playroom soon. I'm not sure I'll make this week but then I never do know in advance. :D

      Delete
  20. Nice--the flag and the kiwi! And you managed to do this on vacation, too! :)

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    1. I know it show's just how dedicated I am Rita...LOL

      Hardly it was totally by chance when a window of opportunity came my way shall we say.
      I've never been so pleased to send my OH off to play golf! I think he couldn't believe his luck! ;D

      Have a great week whatever you are up to...have fun! :D

      Delete
  21. That is a great interpretation... and love the kiwi as well.. aren't they just the weirdest animals... cute but truly odd... but you have captured it perfectly... hope you are enjoying the wonderful wines while you are in New Zealand...xx

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    1. Certainly weird comes to mind when you look at a kiwi...the bird kind obviously! Don't want to offend anyone here!

      Off to a vineyard today to make sure no wine goes untasted. We're really putting in the effort here Trace ;D

      Hope to visit you soon...may even bring a bottle of wine? Any preference? What do you recommend :D
      Cheers xoxo

      Delete

I get so excited to see you here and love to read your thoughts and comments.
I always try to answer each one personally (I think it's only polite)
...♥...I truly appreciate your precious time here so thank you ...♥...

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