Each of these pieces of slate are random pieces from a local quarry, Vermont Natural Colored Stone.  On a nice sunny day, I drive to the quarry (I have friends with great possessions) and wander for hours, hand picking all different colors, shapes and sizes in their natural state.  None of these are cut, sanded or changed other than getting a picture or a saying painted on them, and then protected with a clear finish.  They are painted using acrylic paints and no two are alike, in shape, size or design.  They can be painted with your name, a favorite saying or just a pretty picture and they add so much character to the garden.  

This slate was made for a memorial garden.  It ended up saying "Mum's Garden" and now lives in Barre, VT.  (As you can see in the picture below, Danny's garden ended up being a different scene, one that better reflected the outdoorsman that Danny was).

This slate was made for a memorial garden in MA.

This was done for the Vitale Family (you may have seen their featured story on ABC's Extreme Makeover Home edition).  I had the priviledge to meet Sara and their two boys, Kane and Louie, Jr.  Sara shares many of the same interests in art and photography as me, and this family has become very near and dear to my heart.  Sara has done a tremendous job with the Angel Boy Art foundation in helping to raise money for families with children who are faced with  multiple health challenges as well as giving these kids (and adults) huge confidence in their work.  The Angel Boy Art website features loads of artwork, that can be purchased either outright or by bidding.  I strongly encourage you to take a peak by clicking on the link above.