Resident Praying Mantis

The girls found this fellow while watering the flower box planted with cabbages. He (she?) has been feasting on the white cabbage moth larvae. Rebecca shared her discovery with her husband, Jeff and these are his photos he shared with us.

The shot above is my favorite - I love the definition of the praying mantis against the soft background. Look at his antennae - Doesn't he seem to have an intelligent contenance?

He's a big one, almost 4 inches in length.

He looks like he is waving - or motioning for Jeff to come just a little closer.

Okay, in this shot he is beginning to look a little miffed. Time to move along, Jeff.

My what creepy green eyes you have. How close did you have to get for this shot, Jeff? I too, am fascinated by nature and love to see lots of "good bugs" in my garden. However, these guys still creep me out.

Curious About Fairies

Marcy, one of the artists at Gardenology, just came into my office to disuss a decoupage project she has in the design phase. She wanted to use a "fairy" as the focal point and design the work around the image.

Did she ever come to the right place! I have been collecting images of fairies that I find interesting for several months. These are some of my favorites.

This one is my favorite -

Karen Jacks - Assemblages

As an artist, Karen has been specializing in a form of sculptural work called "Assemblages" for many years, as well as being a freelance graphic designer. Assemblages are 3-dimensional arrangements of items such as wood, metal, paper, ceramics/castings, fabric, etc., and by nature have a recycling aspect that Karen is really drawn to.

I fell in love with her work in an instant - no hesitation or thought. I had an immediate reaction to her work. It is complex and multi layered. Art for the thinking person. Karen's work would be a great conversation piece for the office and would provide something to tease the eye away from the dreaded computer flat screen. Girls, this would be a great Christmas gift for the man in your life's office!

Karen's work expresses her love of antiques, science, mathematics, & metaphors. Often she designs work that reflects the passage of time, either literally by incorporating a clock, or by the reference to a somewhat magical passage of time thru a history theme.

Her deep love and sense of wonder for the Kansas State Motto - "Ad Astra Per Aspera" - translating as "To the stars with difficulty" or "....by hard ways....". Karen feels that this state motto is by far the most mystical and intriguing which leads her to think of it quite literally and because of this fascination this charming bit of Kansas legacy will often find its way into her creations.

Karen has exhibited her assemblage work since 1995 in solo, group, and juried shows, including regional fine art events. She earned her BFA in Design & Illustration from the Kansas City Art Institute (1980).

Karen's assemblages are highly collectible and would fit well in a home or office environment. If you are seeking a truly one of a kind gift for that hard to buy for person - this is it! We currently have only two of Karen's assemblages in the shop as her other work is tied up at the gallery for a show. Once the show has closed we will be gaining a few more pieces.

Shoppe Manager

Where will your path lead you?

Gardenology is seeking a Store Manager that must be able to comprehend, communicate, and implement the store strategy and action plan. Responsible for motivating their team to complete the sales process, ensure customer satisfaction, maximize productivity and profitability. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Maintain and manage sales floor


• Enhance the customer experience by leading your team of associates in providing strong levels of customer care


• Monitor store presentation and support brand consistency


• Utilize merchandizing skills to drive sales through effective merchandise presentation


• Work with featured artists to enhance presentations of their work


• Manage and lead a team of employees


• Conduct associate recruiting, interviewing and hiring


• Create and maintain team relationships


• Diagnose, develop and evaluate the performance of associates

Requirements

Because of the level of responsibility accrued to a Store Manager and because of our high standards for our Manager the following are the minimum requirements for this position:

• Four year degree from a college or university; or two to four year's related experience and/or training; or education and experience


• Ability to lead, manage, and motivate a staff


• Strong sales and customer service ability


• Excellent communication and organizational skills


• Ability to muti-task


• Retail experience is a plus, but it NOT necessary

If you meet these requirements, please take advantage of this opportunity to join our management team at Gardenology. Call our office at (913) 227-0251 to inquire.

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