nathalie-kalbach

There’s life in the old dog yet

4 1/2 years ago I created this layout called “Old”. I loved it so much- you know it was for me one of those layouts, when you create something and you are actually love what you did. For a long time it was a favorite of mine. It was also created in a time when I was still thinking that publishing something would define my value of my work….I submitted this layout like crazy and it was never taken. Oh well…I still loved it and that is why this layout had a place in my gallery.

Here is the journaling:

What is all the fuss about getting older? When I’m old I will be wrinkled, funny, kept and sunny- just like this car. Remind me of this writing in 20 years, ok? :-)

San Francisco, 2001

Fast Forward 4 1/2 years later , with lots of wrinkles more ;) I received an email by one of the Somerset Memories Editors, telling me, that she stumbled across this layout in my gallery and she would like to publish it. Can you imagine how giddy I was? Yes, there’s life in the old dog yet. And the moral of the story? Well…don’t think that just because something you submitted and wasn’t taken is not good enough, don’t think just because you didn’t make it to a design team or just because something else you applied for wasn’t taken, that you are not good enough. It might have been just the wrong time or the wrong place. Just don’t give up ! Believe in what you love!

What are you thoughts of getting older?

Huge hugs

Nat

 

 

Nat

Comments (23)

  • Conny

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    *wie sag ichs jetzt richtig ;-)* ich find das layout hammer! und ich finds beneidenswert – weil wenn ich mir meine layouts von vor 4 jahren anseh – gefallen mir nicht mehr viele *fg*….

    hm mein mann hat mir zum 30er eine skulptur geschenkt – mit einem 18 – wobei der 8 zum unendlich zeichen umgekippt war – sprich unendlich liebe, für immer 18 *und noch viel mehr ;-)* erschreckend find ich es, wenn ich mal die zeit finde und vorm spiegel steh und jetzt auch in der rechten ecke ein büschel schneeeeweisse haare seh und mir dann doch gedanken kommen, ob ich älter werde …. so blöde gedanken werden mit schokolade erstickt hehe

    mädl – du bist halt einfach die beste, weil du authentisch bist und du den leuten mit deiner art alles rüberbringst *ich bald deutsch-du werden sehen hehe*

    bussal aus wien
    conny

    PS: telefonisch nichts erreicht- ich geh am sonntag in die kirche – ich hoffe du weisst, was das für ein opfer is ;-)

    Reply

  • Birgit Kunte

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    Ganz genau so ist es! Aber wir Frauen sind ja sowieso immer zu selbstkritisch. Ein Wahnsinns-Layout und ich ich lieeeebbbbee das Journaling. Keep on, hugs Birgit

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Ja- doof oder? Wir Frauen machen uns immer so schlecht – die Männer sind da viel entspannter …oder jedenfalls tun sie oft so ;) ! Huge hugs
      nat

      Reply

  • MIcki

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    LOL, funny you ask. I don’t “feel” as if I’m older, meaning I still think I’m this young kid, sadly especially this year I’ve noticed that my skin doesn’t seem to think so. I’ve noticed a lot more fine lines and wrinkles. it’s not that I’m vain – I’m not but with only two more years until I hit 50, the lines and wrinkles just make me realize how fast time flies by. So basically…. NOPE, don’t like it at all. :-)

    Reply

  • Sue Clarke

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    Glad to hear that the LO will be shared in a publication since it’s so original.
    My thoughts on getting older? How much time do you have? LOL
    I am 48 and the older I get the less that I know (I’m not the first to say this).
    I know that about 40 I started to not care at all what people thin of me and that has given me great freedom to just be me. Many people love me and some just stay away.
    No problem. I am young at heart and enjoy playing with children and dogs. They always accept me for who I am.
    Enough for now. Peace<3

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      I love what you say that around 40 you didn’t care that much about what other thinks of you…I feel the same is becoming true more and more and it is so relieving! Loves :) Nat

      Reply

  • SusanJane

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    Begin rant.
    I’m a luddite in the world of old = bad. I simply do not understand why we literally buy into the myth that growing up is somehow wrong or (even worse) evil. Everything, absolute everything grows up, gets old, and dies. Animals, trees, stars, galaxies. What’s the big deal? Is our race so all fire superior that we can cheat the inevitable process and escape the cycle with a $300 jar of cream? A new dress? A new, younger mate? Life is a friggin miracle! The endless cycles of life are a miracle! I’m humbled and honored to be part of it. It’s far more important to put something into the lives of others and the future then it is to put money into Revlon/Clarol/Gucci. Be a luddite and join every single speck of everything in the universe and grow old. Have it be o.k. to be who you are at exactly this age and this moment.
    End rant.

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Love your rant :) So true in so many aspects! Thanks for sharing your thoughts SusanJane!

      Reply

  • Jo

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    Nathalie – you and Julie Fei-Fan Balzer are my absolute favourite bloggers! You two always bring something so real and alive to every day! You two are the best! And, I am so happy for you with this ‘old dog’s’ new life!

    Reply

  • Harriet Garrison

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    ps. How did you make all the little white circles in the layout?? They look raised but can’t tell for sure. Thanks again!!!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Harriet- this was a transparency by Hambly Screen Prints, they unfortunately closed. But their transparencies were the best ever!

      Reply

  • Harriet Garrison

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    I REALLY love that layout and the wise words you spoke about not thinking you aren’t good enough, just be patient, was something I needed to hear!!!!! As an artist I think we fluctuate day to day about whether we are good or not. There is always someone better (and younger) out there, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t good in our own “artful” ways…..everyone has different tastes for different things. Art is a million different things to a million different people…just do what you love and makes you happy…someone will come along and share that happiness!!! (War of Art is a neccessary book for everyone!!! thanks for mentioning it awhile ago). You ROCK!!!!!

    Reply

  • magandscrap

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    oh wow !! Love this layout and the journaling too !!

    Reply

  • Nancy Sapp

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    LOVE your yellow truck layout. Old trucks have character, don’t you think?? As for getting old – I’m ALREADY there. I’ve got the wrinkles to prove it but maybe I should think of them as “character lines!”
    Furthermore – you’re very cute & I’m sure you don’t have wrinkles…
    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      LOL Nancy….yeeah… no wrinkles- ;) Nah- of course I have wrinkles !
      BTW- yes- old trucks have character- I somehow love spying them and then taking pictures.

      Reply

  • tina phillips

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    Oh I love this!! May IU ask what size this is?

    Reply

  • mjmarmo

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    Congrats! And that is a good reminder for all of us!!! I have a HUGE birthday (60) coming in February. I keep telling everyone that I am not going there. That one is freaking me out:)

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      You look so much younger! You will rock this birthday!!!!

      Reply

  • MichaelaBM

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    Love your Layout!
    My body might get older and the grey hart might get more but my mind and heart still stay young ;-)
    Hugs Michaela

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Exactly- that is what I think too! …Maybe my brain gets a little older- LOL…but as long as I forget that is fine ;)
      huge hugs
      nat

      Reply

  • muriel

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    Hello from France! I consider getting older is for the lucky ones. I have just turned 55 and I hope I’ll have many other birthdays. Of couse I don’t look as I did when I was 20 and I am not going to lie, there are days when I don’t like my face and my body, but when I think of it the most important is not there. Getting older also means seeing my son grow into a man, sharing my experiences, having plans, lots of reasons to be happy. I love your lo!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Muriel I love how you said that – getting older is for the lucky ones! That is such a beautiful way to say it! I wish you many many more birthdays to come too!!!!! Huge hugs
      Nat

      Reply

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About Yarn Sausages, Creative Students and a Walk

Yesterday I came back from Munich where I taught 3 fun workshops at Scrappies. If you wonder why this Blog post is called YarnSausage – well…you know…even in the same country there are differences in food on the menu and if you read “Wollwürste” which I literally translate into Yarn Sausages then you can’t but raise an eyebrow and ask “Ahem…so….what is this”. Sweet Sandra tried to sell those to me like this “ohhhh those are yummie, yarn sausages…they taste like….yarn”…ok…ahhhaaa…oh well..you know what…I ordered something else LOL ;)

It was so much fun to come back after the workshops in April and I loved seeing so many familiar faces and a couple new ones. Thank you again all my wonderful welcoming students and also to Sandra and Gabi- you girls are amazing and I love your store!

Here are some pictures of the first Workshop “Chalk on the Wild Side”

Loved how the students played with the PanPastels and Prima Fluid Chalks

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturdays we had first the Portrait of a Lady Class – I can never get enough of the results and how the students just take it and create fun and unique portraits! They had a lot of fun using the Derwent Artbars, which Scrappies has stocked in their store too.

 

 

 

 

 

and I so loved this portrait of a boy

 

 

 

the last workshop was “Tag You Are it” – lot’s of PanPastel techniques

 

 

 

 

Here is a group photo but some are missing

 

It went by so fast and I miss the fun girls already…but rumor has it…it might not be for too too long ;)

Sunday morning I was woken up by a cup of tea again- thank you Sandra for such a wonderful time again in your house and all the sweet things you did for me. We went out for a long walk through the foggy forest.

 

 

 

 

Pretty hard to do some decent pictures with the phone in this fog but I really enjoyed this os much – I love being in the city but I miss the nature like this sometimes, as they are somehow no real seasons in a city.

Now  back to yarn sausages…what kind of “funny” food is there name wise in the country you come from ?

Have a wonderful start into your week!!!

nat

Nat

Comments (29)

  • Moni

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    Hey Nathalie, es war eine große Freude Dich kennengelernt zu haben! Deine WS haben Riesenspaß gemacht und ich habe viel dazu gelernt. Mein Porträt wird zwar nicht an die Wand kommen, Du weißt schon wegen der Augenbrauen,:-))) aber ein neues Foto ist schon gedruckt und ich werde einen neuen Versuch starten! Deine Freude bei der Arbeit steckt an! Danke und vielleicht bis bald mal wieder! Würde mich freuen! Ganz liebe Grüße Moni!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Liebe Moni, ich habe mich auch gefreut Dich zu treffen! Dein Portrait hat so gut angefangen und die Augenbrauen…ja..LOL, das mit dem Gesso war ne Idee zu viel- aber jetzt weißt Du wie es geht und ich bin sicher es wird super! Sei ganz dolle gedrückt und Danke dass Du da warst. Bis hoffentlich bald…vielleicht nächstes Jahr ;) Nat

      Reply

  • Sandra

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    I love the comment about Spotted Dick …. that was a typical school lunch dish … yummee! How about ‘Toad in the Hole’ …. anybody know that one?????

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      hahahah- I never heard about the Toad one- that is funny.

      Reply

  • Micki

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    Wow those portraits are wonderful!!!! All of them!!! As for funny names, I’m from Bad Hersfeld and all I keep thinking of is the sausages but can’t think of their name. Oh I miss the food! :-) Also miss the forest. Not much of a forest here in Kansas.

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Oh Micki, I spent my teenage years in Hessia and I think I might know the sausage you are talking about. Ahle Worscht? It is like a Salami but a bit different? I love and miss that one so much, can’t even tell you — LOL. No Forest in Kansas…wow. I have not been yet in Kansas, so I guess I had a wrong picture of it in my head.
      Have a gorgeous day
      Nat

      Reply

  • Andrene

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    I just had to Google “french fries” and after reading several articles it appears no one really knows. All of the articles did say a probable reason is because the potatoes are “french-cut” into thin long strips. And where did they originate? A ton of countries have tried to claim its origin. It is considered the national dish of Belgium “moules-frites” (mussels and fries). OK enough for the history lesson which really didnt tell us anything anyway

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Andrene, mmmh..the mystery of the French fries ;) Thanks for looking that up- that was interesting!
      hahaha- Chili Willy- that is funny too! And I do laugh a lot at Ben&Jerry’s name too! Huge hugs
      Nat

      Reply

  • Sue Clarke

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    Those portraits are incredible! The first one and the last one are so realistic. They must have had a good teacher.

    Reply

  • Charlotte

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    I had such a good time at the Chalk on the Wild Side workshop on Friday!! Thank you SO much. It was my first workshop (and I decided that my first time should be in German!) so I was nervous, but I had a great time, and you are such a great teacher – so lovely. I spent yesterday finishing off my mini-album, and inspiration hit me to use it for a poem I wrote a long time ago. I’m so proud of it! Thanks. As for funny food, I can think of ‘Pigs in Blankets’ (little sausages wrapped in bacon) or ‘Angels on Horseback’ (Oysters wrapped in Bacon) I can’t really think of anything NOT wrapped in bacon.. :P

    (Also, I second Kathy’s comment about coming to England – preferably when I’m back next year. Otherwise, I’ll have to come to Hamburg in the Spring.)

    Liebe Grüße, Charlotte

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Charlotte,
      it was such a pleasure to have you! Thank you so much for your sweet words- that means a lot to me! You had no reason to be nervous- your German is extraordinarily good. Really!!! I wish after so many years of English my accent would lack so much of a German accent as your German is lacking of your British accent. Thank you again for coming and I totally want to see your album with your poem!
      LOL- I love Angels on Horseback …mmmhh- my husband by the way always states that “Everything taste better with bacon” ;)
      Hopefully I will see you soon again! Enjoy your time in Germany- and give me a shout out if you come to Hamburg.
      Viel Spaß noch in München – vergiss nicht, Wollwürste zu probieren!
      Sei gedrückt
      nat

      Reply

  • Riikka

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    Those workshops are looking great! <3

    Reply

  • Kathy Gledsdale

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    Wow what fabulous picture made in your classes, so much talent. Do you ever do any classes in Kent England, I would love to come along?

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Kathy, England is still on my wish list to go and teach – hopefully one day an opportunity arises! I would love to have you!

      Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      LOL- that made me laugh a lot!!! Thanks for sharing Sara :) !

      Reply

      • Sara

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        ;) Thought you might like that one!

        Reply

  • mjmarmo

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    What a fun time. Can’t think of any funny foods here.

    Reply

  • Jenny Palmer

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    Hi Nat
    Glad you had a great time
    Here in Tasmania we call lunch cribs [it is a minning term] and we call cocktail frankfurts [tiny littly red sausage you have on a bread bun or dip into tomato sauce at a party] we call them “Little Boy’s” lol
    Jenny
    waves from Tassie

    Reply

  • MichaelaBM

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    Es war wirklich schön Dich wieder zu sehen!! Meine “Madame Pompadour” hängt schon an der Wand ;-)
    Bis hoffentlich ganz bald mal wieder
    GLG Michaela

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Cool- da freue ich mich. Madame Pompadour ist aber auch zu genial geworden! Sei ganz dolle gedrückt! Nat

      Reply

  • Birgit Kunte

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    Hachz, meine Süße, es war sooooooooooo schön dich wieder zu sehen und die Workshops waren einfach klasse. Ich hoffe, du bist gut nach Hause gekommen mit leichtem Gepäck :-). Hoffentlich sehen wir uns bald mal wieder, drück dich, knutsch Birgit

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Du wirst es nicht glauben…der Koffer war 20 Kg…ehhh??? Tja- so eine Sachertorte, ein bayerisches Brot und ein paar Röntgenbilder scheinen doch mehr zu wiegen als ich dachte…vielleihct ist es die Sachertorte- LOL

      Reply

  • france papillon

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    looks like the ladies were in for a treat, that’s the only way to come to so much mojo loaded pieces! looks like you were in for a treat too ;) i’m happy for you :)

    hugs

    ps: french fries are actually… from Belgium… we should rename them!! lol

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      LOL- France – I have always wondered about that…why FRENCH fries?

      Reply

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La Dolce Vita Part IV: Amalfi Coast

 

Last Post from Italy :) We rented a car in Rome and drove down to the Amalfi Coast where hubs had rented a little house this time. To get to this amazing place in a little town called Positano though…one had to climb 200 of these evil steps!

 

There are 3 things that run through your my mind mind while hiking up

  1. The place he picked better be “extraordinary-ly” awesome!
  2. How do they ever get a new laundry machine up here?
  3. Hundred steps up to our own apartment at home without an elevator are really not THAT bad!

But it was all good- the house we had had an amazing terrace- the one in the front right here, which spans around on the right. We also had an amazing stocked kitchen that made it possible to cook a lot and spent a lot of evenings and mornings on the terrace! And look at the view – you can see capri from there.

 

One day hubs we decided to hike up to this church build in 1400. …pretty steep way up – this was taken when we already made half of the hike and about 2500 evil steps…

 

There were 4 things that went through my mind on that hike

  1. This church better be really beautiful
  2. 200 evil stairs to the Positano-Apartment are not THAT bad
  3. I guess they hadn’t had a laundry machine in 1400
  4. If you do that every day…you look pretty good …shape wise

 

The good thing about hauling your camera with you is that you have a good excuse in getting very interested in for example olive trees and take a lot of pictures from all angles for the purpose of stopping and trying to breathe a bit ;)

Well- the church was VERY beautiful and worth every single step…and stair…

I loved this church because it was beautiful in it’s simplicity…no pomp …

 

just sitting on this amazing plateau with this breathtaking view

 

We went to Capri one day- drove to Sorrento and then took the ferry. BTW driving…adventurous ….

 

Tour busses were only allowed in one direction – but the public busses of course in both. I think you have to prove you are a crazy person before you can apply for being a bus driver at the Amalfi Coast. You also have to wear GIGANTIC sunglasses. Those guys were COOL though…

 

well …back to Capri – beautiful!!!

 

just way too many people like us there… ;)

 

And here we could see our town Positano from Capri

 

The last day we went to Amalfi

 

We had a good time there…I bought some really nice handmade Amalfi Paper…love it…and will probably be very hesitant to use it for the next months- LOL (ohhh what project would be good enough to use this up???)

 

 

It was a wonderful vacation – especially after the crazy summer I had and also to get some sun as this was the WORST summer ever in Hamburg. I am freezing right now …LOL. So you made it through this vacation too- hope you enjoyed some of those pictures.

How many steps are there to the place where you live?

huge hugs

nat

 

 

 

 

Nat

Comments (21)

  • sandra gwilliams

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    beautiful photos!

    Reply

  • Sue Clarke

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    That “breathtaking view” is truly BREATHTAKING (it doesn’t even look real)!

    Reply

  • melania

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    My home!!!!!!I write from Naples! I like you loved my places :D

    Reply

  • LaurieJay

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    Even though I visited Italy and Capri once, many years ago, I found your photo of Capri heart-stoppingly beautiful.

    Reply

  • Nancy Sapp

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    Nathalie – Your wit is charming, your pictures stupendous & make us all jealous. Cold, damp & gloomy today is central IL, USA. Only 1 step into our house! Guess that’s very good as there are 12 steps to the basement to do the laundry & I’ve fallen down them 3 times! Can U say “Clumsy?”
    Thanks for sharing,
    Grandma (to 2 beautiful Blonde grandsons) Nancy Sapp

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Yikes…I hope you won’t fall down those stairs anymore…I would say those are evil stairs then ;) Have a wonderful week!!! Nat

      Reply

  • Milagros

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    OH!! beautiful images……………for dreams.
    Huhgs

    Reply

  • Sandi McLean

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    Oh what beautiful pictures! Now you must have very toned legs from all of those steps! Not many steps – we Canadians drive way too much and walk not enough!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      lol- I wish my legs would have been toned ;) We were there too short- LOL

      Reply

  • mjmarmo

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    Gorgeous!!! Thanks for sharing your trip with us!

    Reply

  • Martha Richardson

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    6 steps to the house….Nat these photos are INCREDIBLE…to be able to visit places like this is a dream for me!

    Reply

  • lynnmcmvt

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    Gorgeous! I think more and more about Italy as the Vermont winter approaches. I didn’t realize I’d have to take steps into consideration, though! ;) Only three steps here, two if you come in through the garage!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      Oh I love Vermont and I love the winter there too…well at least I have been in Vermont one time during winter time. But I hear you…I could live with some more sun too ;)

      Reply

  • pacools

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    The stairs a maybe the driving not so much. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply

  • peg

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    omg WOW!!
    jealous much, your photos are glorious!
    no steps here, just a gently sloping driveway :-)

    Reply

  • Kirsten Alica

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    Great photos, they confirmed my wish to visit Capri & Positano even more. And if I start training now, I should be ready for those steps in about, oh, five years or so. :) Thanks for sharing your Italian adventure.

    Reply

  • Cuchy

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    LOL just one floor and I usually … (well, always) take the elevator :)
    How beautiful places. On my wish list…

    Reply

  • L

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    What a wonderful holiday … your photos are beautiful!

    Reply

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Back to the Scrappers Cove…or Workshops in New Jersey

Wohoo- so excited to go back to Scrappers Cove in Milltown, New Jersey! I had such a fun time last time and can’t wait to see you all again!

I will teach there on November 24th  the following workshops:

YAWP – PanPastel Art Journel Class

Saturday, November 24, 2012 – 10am- 1pm  – Costs: 40 Dollars

Are you ready to dive into art journaling? Let’s sound a barbaric YAWP over the rooftops of the world and get ready for a lot of creative freedom. Nathalie Kalbach will teach you how to create your own easy to create art journal using wonderful PanPastels. Learn mixing, blending, painting and drawing with those soft pastels. Learn how to get stunning results with different resist techniques and fun stamping tricks using embossing powders and other paint media. You can easily apply all of the learned techniques to later projects whether it be art journals, mixed media and even scrapbooking projects. Looking forward to yawp along with you in this 3 hour-long class.

Portrait of a Lady – Mixed Media Canvas Class

Saturday, November 24, 2012 – 2pm- 5pm  – Costs: 40 Dollars

Always wanted to learn how to draw a portrait? Join Nathalie Kalbach in this fun DIN A4/Lettersized Canvas Workshop and learn how to draw a portrait in a short period of time. You create a Portrait in your favorite colors and make it a one of a kind home decor item either for yourself or as a beautiful gift.

Furthermore you will learn heaps of Mixed Media techniques with gesso like: how to create a background, add texture, stamp, paint and use it for altering.

Learn how to use fun fine art paint media, how to layer and tie elements together and explore how to change up embellishments and make them fit your unique piece of art. Use some beautiful Prima Papers and Embellishments to give the portrait a lady-like touch. And the best? All the techniques can be used easily in future Mixed Media and in Scrapbooking Projects.  Come and join Nathalie in this 3 long workshop.

*embellishments etc. might change for the actual workshop

Please call the store (732-745-1000) during business hours, or email info@scrapperscove.com to reserve your space.

I hope I will see you there :)

Nat

Nat

Comments (4)

  • Anne Lemay

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    Hooray! I am registered for both classes. I am so glad you are coming back to teach at Scrappers Cove!

    Reply

    • Linda DB

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      Me too! Both classes look like so much fun. See you on Saturday.

      Reply

  • mjmarmo

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    So wish I were back in NJ now! Lived there when I was a kid! Looks like fun!

    Reply

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Fall is the Spring of Winter…or Blogover

I did some spring cleaning in fall and redesigned my blog. And no…it wasn’t really planned..ahem…don’t even go there…don’t even ask- LOL.

So anyway,  two days of nonstop tweaking, hair pulling and some smiles in between resulted into what you see around here.

There are some new things- there are some old things, some moved, some are maybe new to you, some are redusted..well…let me show you a little video  :)

[vimeo 51637403 w=400 h=300]

Let me know what you think about the new blog look – I love your feedback :)

huge hugs

Nat

Nat

Comments (26)

  • Andrene

    |

    Love it!! Very clean, inviting and easy to navigate. You did an awesome job. I started creating my own page and it took me forever to just get the header and a sidebar set up. Haven’t even posted on it (BLOG FRIGHT!!!) Maybe one day.

    Reply

  • sylvia

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    well done, i like the new, clean look!!!

    Reply

  • mjmarmo

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    Looks great!! Very sharp!

    Reply

  • Deborah Pierro

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    Hi Nat–I like your new blogover. It’s great that you get so many comments. I know I’m not anywhere near as well-known as you, but I wish people would comment on my blog. They did when I started it in August and now I only get views and no comments, or people comment in an email because they can’t figure out how to comment on my blog. Oh well, what do you want for free–I use Google’s Blogspot!
    I’d love to hear your input. Thanks, Deb Pierro

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      Hi Deb, thank you so much for your words! I am sorry you are disappointed about not getting that many comments.I know that can be so discouraging and I so hope that it won’t. Don’t take it too close to your heart!!! Let me say a couple things in the hope that makes you feel a bit better:
      1. I have many many posts that have not ONE single comment or only 1 – sometimes I post a tutorial and put a lot of heart into that and still get only 2 comments…so that happens to many of us…
      2. I never post for comments- yes I love them but I also post because I want to share things…just keep it up…don’t give up because of comments- you do not post solely for comments, I am sure. If I would…I would have given up sometimes ;)
      3. People have busy lives and I know that too. So I don’t blame people for not commenting. For example I have over 1000 blogs in my feedreader, I cannot simply all the time leave comments for all of them – and I am sure that is the same vice versa sometimes for my blog. Also you never know how people read the blog posts- if they read it on a mobile divice – ipad, phone etc. it is really tricky and heart to comment sometimes. And a lot of people read blogs via the feed reader and that makes them too lazy to do the extra click to leave a comment.
      4. When I was going to click on your name to go to your blog I got a message that the blog was not found. Not really sure why – but maybe something is off with your blog? That could be a reason too ?
      In any event- never never give up if you really enjoy blogging. I blog since 2006 and I could not imagine not doing it anymore- it is my voice, my outlet and my memory keeper. That thought helps me through the not so many comment times – maybe it could help you to!

      Send me your blog addy- so I can take a peak and once in a while leave you a comment.

      Huge hugs
      nat

      Reply

      • sylvia

        |

        Nat, you’re the sweetest really… what a lovely reply!!

        Reply

  • Sue Clarke

    |

    You know that I love to leave you comments Nat.
    It is a more professional, clean cut look.
    Mind you I loved the old one too.
    It is more intuitive and I think that categories are a bit easier to find.
    At the end of the video did you say “shoes” or “toodle ooh’s”…LOL?

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      Thank you Sue- you are the best- I look forward everyday to your comments!!! hahahaha- at the end of the video I say : Tschüss ….which is the German word for Bye If Americans say it….like Julie ;) it sounds like Shoooeeesss huge hugs nat

      Reply

  • sandy

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    If I am already a subscriber to your blog, do I have to re-subscribe to get the N-Studio blog?

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      Hi Sandy,that shouldn’t be the case as my url did not change. But did you get the new blog post in your reader? If so, then you do not have to do anything.
      Have a gorgeous day!!!
      Nat

      Reply

  • Milagros

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    A very clean and fresh but will miss your cheeks rosy.
    hugs

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      LOL Mila – like Cuchy said…guess I will have to put a little picture in the sidebar ;)
      Hugs
      nat

      Reply

  • Cuchy

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    I like it, I also find it cleaner and easier to read. I’ll miss your pic with the rosy cheeks though :)

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      LOL….I can make a little sidebar picture with it ;) I miss it too a bit

      Reply

  • lynnmcmvt

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    I like it, Nat! It’s good to clean house once in a while and same with blogs. :)

    Reply

  • Julia

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    I like this fresh and clean look! Well done, Nat! :)

    Reply

  • Martha Richardson

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    For some reason you have disappeared off my blog reader…is this why? Love the new look and now you have me thinking…hmmmmmm!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      Whaaaattt, LOL- you don’t like me anymore :( mmh – weird about the feed reeder, I hope it wasn’t a glitch. It is lot’s of fun withe the Blogover…welll….at least when it is done ;)

      Reply

  • Barb

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    I like the new look!!!!!

    Reply

  • eSeN

    |

    My first thought was that it was much easier to read, so usability is improved right away! Love the dropdown menus. I’m assuming ‘students about workshops’ are your testimonials. I would label them as such, and maybe place them in your ‘about’ menu rather than the ‘workshops’ menu. As others have said, a nice and clean look! I like it!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      Thank you for your input – usability is important . Mhhh- that is a good point you brought up about the Testimonials- I think I did it because not everyone from other countries knows what a Testimonial is – translation wise….but I like your idea about putting it in the About Menue- I will think about this! thank you!

      Reply

  • suzannebouchard

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    Well, the important thing is that you like your new look. Honestly I would like to see more of your artwork in the leading banner. I find clean and simpl cold. But I love your artwork a lot and all you do is interesting to me.

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

      |

      Ahh Suzanne, thank you for your sweet words. I do like simple when I read stuff…but I was also a bit hesitant on the blog, because I still wanted to reflect that I am an artsy painty person…I hope I somehow managed to keep that. Have a wonderful day!!!! hugs

      Reply

  • Trish

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    Very nice, Natalie!

    Reply

  • Vicki Chrisman

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    Very cool Nat.. clean and crisp. Man… doing a blog revamp is something I have been thinking about for …oh….. 2 years atleast..but I’m SCARED.lol You go girl!

    Reply

    • nathalie-kalbach

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      vIc, it is not as bad as it looks…kind of…LOL. I knew what I wanted but the lack of html knowledge makes it a bit hard if you know what you want. Kind of like when you have the picture of the perfect pair of shoes in your head and then go shopping….not too easy. But if you are open in the result I think it is a bit easier.

      Reply

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Second Floor Challenge #10: White Cardstock

Are you ready to take the second floor this time? If you have no clue what I am talking about- read all about it here :) The Second Floor Challenge

So today is our 10th Second Floor Challenge: White Cardstock

Click here to see what Julie did

Whatever that means to you or however it inspires you.  The prompt is simply meant to get you started.  The level of challenge you aim for is entirely internal and up to you

White Cardstock – something I use a lot as a base for my backgrounds. Usually you do not see later anymore that something started with white Cardstock. Which was a good start taking it to the 2nd Floor…how about having the white Cardstock show itself and speak for itself for once ;)

I picked a 12×12 smooth piece of white cardstock and then a white cardstock with linnen texture from which I hand cut circles.

And then the weird blank page syndrom started….LOL. Yep – I was like …what they hay…and I let it lay there….for a day ….and came back and then just wrote down the feelings that came up when I was looking at this new blank page that offered so many possibilities…

I added a postcard  I had printed from one of my paper designs several years ago. This paper didn’t make it into the emotions paper line back then but it is still one of my favorite pieces.

What I learned from this challenge:

I love the chances that white cardstock offers -there is just so much freedom that attached to this supply.

I love to create layouts/projects with a deeper meaning- where the supplies itself have a meaning too.

I wish sometimes I could be a blank white cardstock again …I was so much more open and free in my work and I didn’t care about other’s and rejection.

My urge to add paint was calmed down once I had added this postcard with my painty artwork…I guess this paint obsession is not to overcome- LOL.

If you’d like to leave a link showing off what you did in response to this challenge, here’s the linky list:

hugs

Nat

Nat

Comments (7)

  • Bellaidea

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    very cool look!

    Reply

  • Jessica

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    I love your page. The white circles are like speech bubbles and the contrast with the postcard of your design makes your artwork just pop. I also really like the new design of your website!

    Reply

  • Carolyn Dube

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    This is the scariest 2nd floor challenge you have done yet! White cardstock?! I love where you took it- the circles with the words is magnificent! Your painting just pops with the white!

    Reply

  • Janet

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    Love it! I need to get busy! Thanks!

    Reply

  • mjmarmo

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    What a fun challenge!! Love what you did!

    Reply

  • Julie Short

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    Reading again I applaud your comment regarding rejection – tis a cold and lonely place out there at times in the blogosphere and the magazine mayhem if you aren’t the same as all the other cookies from the cookie cutter system! It seems it has to be the latest , the most expensive etc etc which is so not necessary!
    Oh and more cheers there’s not a leering pumkin or a ghoul in sight!
    Please keep encouraging your inner spirit and take your time to experiment for without it the world would be a duller place.

    Reply

  • Julie Short

    |

    Hallellujah! Singing loud and strong.- choosing to have supplies with meaning and relevance to you, the artist seems to have been forgotten. So good on you for stating that as part of your practise Nat!
    You refresh my spirit and remind me that I am not alone in the search for authenticity!

    Reply

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The Whatevers #5 – or Why…?

Are you ready for the 3rd Whatevers? If you missed the what the Whatevers is all about…check it out here.

Click here to see what Cat made out of this photo and which story she tells

Click here to see what Vicki made out of this photo and which story she tells

Here is my take on it

Why look so far if the good is so close by? Wilhelm would never understand why his son Heinrich went to America. Being a tram conductor wasn’t a shabby life! At least Karl was still with him.

Their Names: Wilhelm – grandfather to Elizabeth and Karl – Elizabeth’s Uncle

played with Derwent Inktense Blocks and Liquitex Acrylic Inks

And here is the photo for you:

Here is how it works if you want to play along:

  • Vicki, Cat and I have made a one-year commitment to each other and picked twelve photos with Whatevers whom we will give a story.
  • Every month – if possible always on the 15th –  each of us will do a post with an individual story that goes along for us with the same photo.
  • If you want you can play along and we will have the photo for you – just right click on it to safe it to download and show us your version of The Whatevers.
  • There is no rules to the story itself- it can be funny, sad, uplifting, breathtaking- WHATEVER
  • There is no rules on the length or the form of the story– it can be a short sentence, an essay, a poem or a soap opera – WHATEVER
  • There is no rules on the artform you choose – it can be a scrapbook layout, an altered art project, an artjournal page – WHATEVER
  • Here is a rule though: if you take the photo you have to link back to us andshow us your story.
  • These pictures are from our personal stash and are for personal use for you only! If you want to use them for a publication whether a book or magazine in print or digital form please ask for permission!
  • If you want to participate we’ll have a linky list for each Whatever Post.
  • You can also join our The Whatevers -Facebook Page

You can grab the blinkie here if you want to add it to your sidebar

You can share your work with us by submitting here:

// <!–[CDATA[

// ]]>

Nat

Comments (5)

  • Penny

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    Always so inspired by your backgrounds – this one is so bold and fun – just love it along with the picture!

    Reply

  • Martha Richardson

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    Fab everything!!!! You rocked this:)

    Reply

  • Catherine

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    Oh my — love the way the Inktense blocks look — so colorful and amazing! Wonder what old Heinrich is going on the USA — he can only be getting in trouble ;-) xo —

    Reply

  • Sue Clarke

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    I especially like the drippy paint and the wonky circles.

    Reply

  • Jean Marmo

    |

    I always love your stories! Hope to play with this one.

    Reply

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Workshops in the Sunshine State: Florida, USA – December 2012

Wohooo – Looking forward to have workshops at Everything Scrapbook in Lake Worth in Florida in December.

Workshops December 1-2, 2012 at Everything Scrapbook in Lake Worth

Are you ready to dive into art journaling? Let’s sound a barbaric YAWP over the roof tops of the world and get ready for a lot of creative freedom. Nathalie Kalbach will teach you how to create your own easy to create art journal using wonderful PanPastels. Learn mixing, blending, painting and drawing with those soft pastels. Learn how to get stunning results with different resist techniques and fun stamping tricks using embossing powders and other paint media. You  can easily apply all of the learned techniques to later projects wether it be art journals, mixed media and even scrapbooking projects. Looking forward to yawp along with you in this 3 hour long class.
—————
Always wanted to learn how to draw a portrait? Join Nathalie Kalbach in this fun DIN A4/Lettersized Canvas Workshop and learn how to draw a portrait in a short period of time. You create a Portrait in your favorite colors and make it a one of a kind home decor item either for yourself or as a beautiful gift.  Furthermore you will learn heaps of Mixed Media techniques with gesso like: how to create a background, add texture, stamp, paint and use it for altering. Learn how to use fun fine art paint media like the Derwent Artbars, how to layer and tie elements together and explore how to change up embellishments and make them fit your unique piece of art. And the best? All the techniques can be used easily in future Mixed Media and in Scrapbooking Projects.  Come and join Nathalie in this 3 hour long workshop.
——–
In this Workshop with Nathalie Kalbach, you will create a stunning unique canvas that will be a wonderful home décor item. Learn how to create dimension and texture with tissue paper, items of daily life, acrylic paint, lace, burlap and gesso. Learn how to reveal the interesting and eye catching texture with acrylic paints and acrylic inks and add some fun stamping techniques on top.  We will be adding lots of layers and dimension to make this a spring, summer, fall or winter canvas…just as you like. All the techniques can easily be applied to future projects.
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Dr. Seuss knew it: there is something magic about books. Each book is a beauty in and of itself – a story that leads you into a new world of fantasy. Books also have a feeling of importance to them, such as with a fabric coated hard cover or just the paper itself.

But sometimes a book loses its fascination and ends up at a flea market or at the back of your bookshelf never be opened again. Why not breathe life back into those books again and fill them with your own stories? You can alter them in a way that these treasures bring unique joy back.

Nathalie Kalbach will show you how to create either a funky or a simple style altered book. You will learn beautiful folding techniques, such as ways to create pockets for treasures or hidden messages that go along with your story. You will learn how to use adhesive in unexpected  ways and learn fun embossing techniques. Accompanied by beautiful Prima paper, flowers and stamps, this book will be a personal keepsake or a special present to a loved one. What’s more, it can function not only as a mini album but also as a home decor item.

Come and join Nat in this three-and-a-half-hour long workshop. Be awesome and be a book nut!

——–
I would love to see you there :)
have a gorgeous day
Nat
Nat

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La Dolce Vita Part III – a little bit more Rome

 

Tired of my photos…hold on a bit more- LOL- don’t forget this blog is also a memory for me….for later to come ;)

After the workshops hubs and I had a whole day for sightseeing and to us – we went first to St. Peters

 

 

 

 

and we decided to hike up to the cupola

 

 

because you know…14 years later you have forgotten that it is a LOT of steps and that you do not like it so narrow….

 

actually you forget that right away again …once you are up there…and that is why I have to put it in this blog…so that 14 years later I will remember ;)

 

 

It was then time to go to the Vatican Museum – which overwhelmed me again

 

It was FULL. But as a short person you have a pretty good chance to detect amazing stuff there on the ceiling…it relieves you from having your nose constantly in someone elses elbow or worse …armpit.

 

 

This room had a very calming mood – probably because it was just beautiful and not totally overwhelming with art…because there is not one single space in this museum where you can rest your eye. Yes yes…I know it is amazing…and yet…it feels so…..BAM…

 

 

My favorite part of the museum was the modern art area right before the Sistine Chapel – and actually I didn’t remember ANY of this from 14 years ago. Wasn’t it there or was I just not interested in it back then? Oh well…

 

 

AND hold your horses…before you scroll further down…I need to do a Disclaimer:

Attention: This Blog Post and the VATICAN MUSEUM contains art work that shows nudity and some cruelty, if you have a problem with this, you might be better off looking at something else :) . Don’t email me to complain, don’t visit my blog anymore because I might post things like this again and for sure do not take your children to the Vatican Museum!

 

 

 

 

 

Then we were at the Sistine Chapel- you are not allowed to take pictures there…well I did, but since I am probably already in BIG trouble because of my disclaimer…I might hold off to those…and you know the pictures anyway as photo-postcards, right?

 

We had a nice break afterwards and strolled around and then went to my favorite building in Rome- the Pantheon. 126 AD …..and you see this inside…I mean….WHOHOO

 

Perfection….amazing…breathtaking…are you still there???

 

Are you tired? Well believe me…we were pretty tired after that day too – we went after the Pantheon to Villa Borghese, did a little bicycle tour – I spare you with those pictures- LOL and had a nice dinner. But this post is photo-epic enough – and I still want to bore you with some Capri Pictures later ;)

 

Which building is your favorite if you have a favorite one?

huge hugs

nat

 

 

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Nat

Comments (4)

  • vanessa

    |

    Attenzione!! ihihihih bellissime foto!

    Reply

  • Sue Clarke

    |

    Saint Peter’s is just beautiful. So much incredible art up, down and all around you. TFS your memories with us Nat.

    Reply

  • mjmarmo

    |

    Wow- so pretty! Have never been to Rome. Love your ceiling shots!!

    Reply

  • Jessica

    |

    Ich liebe Rome auch sehr viel, und das schönste “building”, vor mich ist St. Peters. In zwei wochen fahren wir nicht zu Rome, aber zu Koln, das ist auch schön. Mein German language ist nicht so gut, aber es mach spass in German ein comment eingeben.

    Reply

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