Rich Strike Vs Hot-Walker

Rich Strike, thoroughbred horse racing, a story with Canadian History. Hot-Walker Life on the Fast Track, thoroughbred racing adventure crime novel.

There is nothing like a long shot, a great true story to stir the pot, especially when it is world newsworthy and financially upsetting, but in a good way. 

It was Kentucky Derby day in May, (2022) the richest pot in horse racing, and Rich Strike, a claimed chestnut horse (for $30,000. American less than 7 months before the noted race at Churchill Downs) shocked millions of fans with its spectacular run to win the prestigious 20 horse field. 

 (The Kentucky Derby Race 2022)

He is the son of mare Gold Strike, a Manitoba foaled Canadian thoroughbred champion, and sired by Keen Ice whose Canadian pedigree connection Smart Strike and Awesome Again (both connected to Canadian Champion Northern Dancer).  Rich Strike was 80-1 at racetime. From Rags to Riches for trainer Eric Reed, owner Richard Dawson and Sonny Leon, jockey.

It was true stories like this, along with personal events that prompted my writing the sports crime novel, Hot-Walker Life on the Fast Track. A 30 year saga based around hot-walker Frannie Harrison and her view of thoroughbred racing as seen in 1960-70s Canadian racing circuit... and her witness to the violent murder of her American draft dodger finace at Woodbine Racetrack. 

Horse racing has been around for a very long time. In 1665, the world's first race track was established in America, and ever since then, the sport has been growing in popularity. Horse racing in lots of countries, especially Australia, Ireland, the USA, the United Kingdom, France and New Zealand.. Slowly decreasing in Canada as race courses close.

Following the genre of Dick Francis, the king of horse racing novels, its all about the 'behind the scenes' that triggers intrigue and suspense. The background stories are definitely the most interesting. Hot-Walker Life on the Fast Track: a story of youth, crime, a sporting life that leads to crime and courtroom drama. The horse... SnoMann; The crime... revenge; The reason... money... The results... murder trial. Romance and Suspense. Life on the Fast Track.

Hot-Walker History... more info on the writing of the novel.

Watercolour Art Investment

 Art Display ~ Investment

A few good ideas and thoughts for art display, home decor and wall art treatments which can display an owners personality; likes and dislikes as well as offering unique design elements to any room. Watercolour Art has a different dimension than other medias, an energy that feels lighter and more whimsical. Theses delicate applications offer numerous opportunities for any home decor style as they are easily updated or changed as to the interior design of the space.

As time passes, and it is time to update the home decor or office space with new wall colour, accessories, window and floor treatments, consider doing the same for your wall treatments. For a quick energy change, paint the walls and change the art. This is visually the biggest and cheapest design idea for budget conscious decorators.

A watercolour piece of art is finished framed, under glass with a matting. They are more flexible to damage... if at some time the glass or fame gets broken, it can easily be fixed, replaced or repaired offering the item to the homeowner as a 'very good investment' as other items can be destroyed once damaged. Because of this flexibility, the watercolour art can be updated by:

• replacing the frame from one colour to another (black to white; wood to metal etc)
• removing or adding a matting to the artwork
• changing the colour of the matting from cream to black (keeping the matting a neutral (white, beige, gray, black colour)  complements the artists work as a stronger colour matting can make it 'too' decorative, losing its 'artist' investment) Stronger colours are suitable for prints, not original art.
• adding a double mat, bevel the insert edge or double the size of the mat which draws attention to the watercolour.
• consider purchasing small watercolours and place in groupings. Less expensive and can be updated over the years.

A few ideas regarding this concept as shown below are some neutral white or black matted original watercolours displayed in small collections, unframed, on a black background. A selection of four seasonal landscapes could be from your favourite holiday locations.

A grouping of three original watercolours unframed, displayed on a black background. Groupings of small originals (once framed) are arranged with a small 1" - 1 1/4" separation.

A set of two neutral matted watercolour originals (unframed)  displayed horizontally on a black surface with a slightly wider matting. Spacing, once framed is approximately 1 1/4 " apart. 

A couple of small 4" x 6" watercolour originals displayed on a black surface, matted as one piece of art in a beige matting, as these are similar watercolour neutrals and complement one another in a winter scene. 

A grouping of two watercolour originals: one black matted with 2 pieces of art and the second a larger single original matted in black sitting on a black surface. Both mattings are 11" x 14" creating a larger wall grouping. 

Original Watercolour Art is considered a very good investment, no matter what the size of the piece. Be inspired and update or purchase, adding new energy to the space. Good feng shui ~

Mallorys Art Design

An Artist's Inspiration

 How is an artist inspired?

Inspiration isn't just for artists, but is from the creative mind, as the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something creative, a feeling of enthusiasm that can give you new ideas. The inventor, doctor or engineer who are working on one specific project accidentally finds something that inspires and benefits another of their projects. 

As a designer, writer and artist, I have always been in need of 'triggers'. This need to be inspired is what keeps the writer from writers block. As an Interior Designer, I am constantly in need of staying on top of the trends while keeping the feng shui basics in balance. But now, I search for that inspiration to paint as the artist in me is constantly trying to stay visually focused on my surroundings so not to miss being mentally stimulated. 

Photography is another type of art that I am easily taken to, wherever I travel.

I am a walker. I actually try and do 200 km a month, not that I am consistent, but that is my goal, which is around 300,000 steps. And, like most people, I have my phone/camera with me, or my Nikon. This photo below is one of my favourite that I captured while walking the shoreline of Crescent Beach, near White Rock, BC. It looks great in both colour and black and white, but the watercolour painting just didn't do it justice. The sparkle from the ocean waters and peacefulness following a spring day shower were lacking in luster. This Covid-19 photo shows social distancing at its peak.

Social Distancing

Whimsical Watercolour

Toddler on a Mission

My best walking partner is my granddaughter. From an early age she liked to bring Pooh Bear along wherever we went, whether it was to the local market, down to the dyke for ice cream or on an adventure, like through the fields of sunflowers. She had an eye for detail and liked to pick up every stick, flower or stone along the way. Walking was a good thing. She inspired many of my whimsical watercolours... like the bouquet of lilacs she picked up and had me put them into a jam jar of water so she could watch them grow bigger. 

There are so many thoughts, visuals, inspiring conversations, places and people that can 'trigger an idea' for us, whatever our endeavour. We just have to be focused at the time so we do not miss it. Most of the time, the ideas and answers are right in front of us.

Everything we create has a source.

You might have created a special meal, dessert or cocktail which was perhaps 'triggered' from a picture, visual, conversation, media ad or a 'maybe this might work' thought. A lot of my personal inspirations over the years have come from ...

• a memory from my past
• music/songs
• surroundings/environment
• magazines, books I have read, movies
• children at play
• conversations with the elderly (someone older than myself)
• visuals; photographs (traveling, vacations)
• meditations, quiet times, long walks

When I was living in Peterborough, Ontario I was writing an article on a Canadian Legend, Scott Young (the writer and father of singer Neil Young) who told me there is nothing called 'writers block' if you leave or stop writing in the middle of a sentence, because every time you come back, you just continue on with your train of thought. Staying active and around people is your source of inspiration.

View My Gallery:

A selection of whimsical watercolours and photography. Each piece is not just a picture, but has a story behind it. Something inspired me to paint it or photograph it.

Mallorys Design ArtWork

Tote Bags: Whimsical Floral Art

Whimsical Floral Art TOTE BAGS

Inspiration ... creating a custom floral watercolor 'tote bag' first came to me while traveling in India, and then again in Malta. There were an amazing variety of designs and ideas that I was overwhelmed with the 'fun' and, of course, the practicality of them all. For me, it was a perfect concept and place to apply my whimsical watercolour art. Whimsical Lilac Bouquet TOTE

My grandaughter's first bouquet she picked at 2 1/2 years was the lilacs in a jam jar full of water. It became a memorable day together, and a fun concept for a whimsical tote bag. 

One of my favourite creations is the popular, a whimsical watercolor of a favourite child's toy that sits full of colourful blossoms ready to take to market or fill a banquet hall.  Little Red Wagon  

A tote bag is a great possession for anyone in need of a carrier while out-and-about. My gallery is full of whimsical watercolours that add a bit of humor or bring back a memory and are suitable wall decor for an office, home or cottage. Almost 50 whimsical watercolor prints in my gallery for sale. Take a look....

Mallorys Art Design Gallery

The popular 'doodle art' is created in a whimsical floral watercolour concept suitable for any age but not everyone's 'cup of tea'. Every culture has their own style of doodling and it's a whimsical concept that captures the idle mind.  

Whimsical Doodle Art Tote Bag 

Gifts for mom, a neighbour, daughter, teacher, best friend, grandparent, teenager etc etc... its all about finding a 'fun' whimsical item that can bring a smile to someone. Home Goods, such as pillows and notebooks with original artwork are also a welcome idea.... and available online. 

Mallory's Art Design

Original Whimsical Watercolor Art

The unpredictable CV-19 years of unknowing has been a topsy-turvy kind of existence for most of the 'earths population'. Trying to figure out where and when one could leave home was unnerving; put on a mask... no, take it off. Really? And then, get a vaccine... no, get two vaccines. Mentally, we all became exhausted. Crime rates and protests were going through the roof, and sports were practically non existent. Shopping for groceries became the highlight of the week instead of a tedious necessity. All in all, the publication and library handling of books definitely increased as well as puzzles, magazines and video games. But... for me,  it was all about regaining my appetite for a hobby. There is only so many programs and movies one can watch. I already was in a regular regime of walking... trying for 200 km a month (almost 350,000 steps) by doing a little every day; I would lawnbowl or curl whenever the health departments deemed it advisable. 

Art Gallery       Mallorys New Instagram

For over 30 years, I worked in the design/build industry consulting and running a small business while raising two children. I enjoyed writing, photography and art, not to mention my love for traveling. Retirement was time to be active and relax at the same time. I certainly didn't count on being in ... in the prison of my own home without family around. Ugh!

So... as a few friends talked about their new 'hobbies', I just felt too tired and bored to venture into such a thought. But... after 14 months into the pandemic, I was desperate. Off to the dollar store, mask and sanitizer in hand, to spend $50. on numerous supplies to try an old hobby from my twenties... painting.  No longer was I interested in Oil or Acrylic paints. I had to try watercolour art... really messy when you have not attempted this medium before. Lots of reading and how-to youtubes played out for weeks until I took the big step. "I can do this!" attitude. From photographs to site visits, I created my own 'look' and hopefully, one day I will develop into a real artist. 

Now... that's all I really want to do... (after lawn bowling or curling, of course).

Artist in Training
Original Watercolour Art

Books for Fall/Winter Reading..

 'ebooks/print'  Fall/Winter Reads ...

A selection of novels and non fiction for your viewing. 

Each book description 'blog' is available in the side-bar for your review.

_____________________________________

Hot-Walker Life on the Fast Track

Background

 

Selection of 'ebook' outlets 'specials'
Print book outlets

Book Trailer video
Sports/Romance Crime Novel

*****

House of the Caduceus
Background

Selection of 'ebook' outlets 'specials' 

Print 'book' outlets
Book Trailer video
Adventure/Mystery Novel

*****

Fun Schway Interiors
Background


Selection of 'ebook' outlets 'specials'
Print 'book' outlets

Book Trailer video
Reference book, DIY

*****

Ancient Secrets for a Healthy Home
Background

Selection of 'ebook' outlets 'specials'
Print 'book' outlets

Book Trailer video
Sacred Teaching Ancient Studies DIY

The Best Studio (400sq) Update!

The Ultimate Studio Update: Whether a bachelor pad, suite or condo, it is very important to create a space filled with positive energy, be environmentally friendly as possible and most importantly

 feel like home!

There is a time in most peoples life, when they are looking for affordability in housing and begin or end their search with a small space. More and more condo's, apartments or suites are turning into an open single room that's no larger than a standard double garage. It takes a creative eye to turn this into an all-inclusive home. Good Feng Shui!

Interior Design & Feng Shui ebook
Amazon paperback book 

DIY healthy home Decorating ebook

Amazon paperback book

Considerations should include your most import needs.

1.   Cooking - kitchen area & it's purpose: to what extent you eat in, entertain  guests, or the need for food storage.
2.   Laundry area - appropriate room for a stacker washer/dryer and folding space.
3.   Work: computer - laptop, storage, desk, lighting and specific needs.
4.   Closet space - footwear, outer wear, clothes, bedding, household needs, cleaners, vacuum, brooms and other special needs.

5.    Space planning - furniture (size, function, storage) Seating for 6
6.    Lighting - overhead, hallways, kitchen, lamps, fans, dark corners
7.    Wardrobes or buffets for storage
8.    Tables (eating) fold down and open, seating to accommodate guests
9.    Entertainment: Screen (wall mount), music, chromecast/bluetooth needs and other

10.  Sleeping area options, space saving
11.  Floorings: colour, texture, function, durability
12.  Window treatments: privacy, easy operation, appearance-style
13.  Wall treatments: colour, texture, variety, 'light-ness' durability
14.  Accessories: mirrors, artwork, hangings, greenery, collectables
15.  Overall storage needs

Recycle all items not needed, used or loved.

For your convenience, books available online - ebook & print

Ultimate Basement Reno

When converting a storage basement into an amazing apartment, it becomes the ultimate basement reno.

With the outlandish cost of housing and moving today, couples are considering alternative options, such as raising the roof for more bedrooms, an addition for a larger kitchen or redoing a storage basement into the ultimate apartment.

By salvaging cabinets, olde furniture, adding wallpaper, new paint and updated fixtures and appliances, a remarkable reno will increase the value of your home. This space becomes a cosy livable apartment for family or a valuable rental area for needed income.

Large bright windows, new entry door, light finished flooring and custom furnishings can be accounted for when preparing a specific plan listing the required materials, and then purchased when they are on sale for greater savings. The plan is everything as it keeps everything on budget.

Prepare a layout. Sketches or drawings will indicate correct placement and sizes of products. List everything from coat-hangers and door knobs to cabinets and furnishings, artwork and fixtures.  There is never a surprise if the project is well coordinated. Lots of items can be found in unusual places and used as unique design features turning it into a custom design project.
Change your environment, change your life. Living with Feng Shui is all about feeling 'good' within your environment.

Mallory's Books Online

    

Healthy Home

Tips & Ideas

 

Fun Schway Accessories for New Updated Interiors

Accessories: Fun Schway with Feng Shui to update your interior design with new trends from Thrift Stores and Dollar Stores when on a budget.
Create a new look for your home.

Accessorize Your Home

It's an easy fix!
Take your favourite space or a room that you would like to 'spring clean' so to speak.  A place that you would like to 'kick it up a notch'. Give that room some fun schway energy with budget decorating!

• first, you remove all your 'stuff' and even the pictures, but not the furniture, at least not the large pieces. (Use what you have got)
• second, pick out an accessory colour that goes or complements your existing furniture.
• rearrange these larger pieces, if this is an option, to create a visually larger space; IE place items on angles.
• set a budget for the accessories $75-$200 - you may create the new look for half this amount.
• list about 15 items to look for on your shop... candles, pillows to picture frames, sheets for drapes or table cloths for sofa throws
• hit the thrift shops, dollar stores, and check out the sales at your local home/garden stores.

Sample: a room with white walls and beige furniture is accented with blue accessories, a bold punch to brighten and enhance a new look with great energy, good feng shui!

Floor Plant, Mirror, Lamp

Collectibles, antiques,
canvas prints

Tray, placemat, tablecloth,
flowers, pillow

Lamp, violet, waterjug/vase

tablecloths and $4 thrift-store chairs

Plates, pillows,
tablecloth-sofa throw

Outdoor mat, tablecloth, pillow

Fun Schway Interiors, 

a book on healthy homes

 and a new way to create positive energy.

Spotlight on Mallory Wilkins

Author Spotlight

Publisher recognizes Mallory's writing in an Author Spotlight with a current listing of a few of the books available online.

More books by Mallory Neeve Wilkins

Just in time for spring reading ... Take a moment to view a couple of novels and photography books as well as non-fiction on the 'Spotlight' page. Youtube Book Videos display the Book Trailer.

Ancient Secrets for a Healthy Home
(How-to, reference)
Book Trailer

Hot-Walker Life on the Fast Track
(crime/romance novel)
Book Trailer  

House of the Caduceus
(novel/mystery)
Book Trailer

The Art of Laundry Hang-ups
(photography, whimsy)
Review