I love palindromes! I figure that's a great way to start the new year.
From here on out I'll likely be posting periodically with updates, and I'm hoping to have everything done and wrapped up by the end of January.
This has been such an amazing, wonderful year... what an adventure! Thank you to everyone, sincerely, for all your support and encouragement. I hope this has inspired some to create art, volunteer, commit some act of kindness, smile at a stranger, get in touch with a friend, spread some happy and much more.
Happy New Year!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Week 52 The Grand Finale
Whew!! It's twenty to one in the morning, so technically it is December 31st! I had a burst of energy tonight so I did two paintings. Plus, I figured with New Year's Eve I'd be pretty busy so it'd be nice to have this all wrapped up. :) I'm very excited about this post... and sad... and oh, to sum it all up in words would cheapen it I think.
Needless to say, this has been quite an amazing whirlwind of a year in so many ways. Thank you for being a part of it! This won't be my last blog post since I still have many paintings to sell, but it is my last post with pictures. After this... any painting I do is going to be for me. I think I might take a day or two off! :)
So, here are weeks 51 and 52 to finish it up. I'll probably post again tomorrow night when I've had a chance to formulate my feelings into semi-coherent thoughts. Until then, enjoy:
And now, thanks to my slow computer, it's five to one... so good night! :)
Needless to say, this has been quite an amazing whirlwind of a year in so many ways. Thank you for being a part of it! This won't be my last blog post since I still have many paintings to sell, but it is my last post with pictures. After this... any painting I do is going to be for me. I think I might take a day or two off! :)
So, here are weeks 51 and 52 to finish it up. I'll probably post again tomorrow night when I've had a chance to formulate my feelings into semi-coherent thoughts. Until then, enjoy:
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| December 17 - Itty Bitty |
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| December 18 - Owl |
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| December 19 - Penguin |
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| December 20 - Forest |
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| December 21 - Purple Whip |
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| December 22 - Ice Age Fingerprint |
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| December 23 - Autumn Sunset |
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| December 24 - Sunny Splash |
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| December 25 - Heartstrings |
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| December 26 - Rainbow Rush |
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| December 27 - Two Blue |
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| December 28 - Whisper |
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| December 29 - Cats |
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| December 30 - Blue Lagoon |
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| December 31 - New Year's Eve |
November & December Paintings
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Always Interesting
I always find it interesting to look and see where in the world someone has been reading the blog. In the past 24 hours there have been readers in Canada, Latvia, Russia, the US, Taiwan, India, and Ukraine. This week includes more countries as well... to name a few, Brazil, the UK, Greece... amazing, just amazing!!
Tonight was another productive night. I finished up last night's (Dec 24th's) painting "Sunny Splash" and I really like the way it turned out. I also did one for tonight, unoriginally titled "Cats" and then started on a background for one that'll either be for December 26th or 30th. I'm pretty much all caught up though. The 26th is the only hole from the trip and then it's just the 30th and 31st which I can do on their actual nights! Woo-hoo!
I am behind in my emails I know... if you are reading this and have a painting on reserve then I haven't forgotten you... I just haven't gotten all my ducks in a row just yet. To those who have sent money, your paintings are going to be shipped tomorrow I absolutely 100% promise! I do apologize for the chaos... I can only blame myself, my disorganization, and the holiday mayhem that still hovers. Although, we did take down our Christmas tree and some of the decorations today. The living room is slowly being de-holidayed.
I was horrified to see Valentine's Day stuff in the stores today though. Oh. My. Gosh. Do we not move fast enough already?? My son's birthday is February 12th.... let me get a little closer to that before all the heart-shaped stuff gets plastered everywhere!! Sigh... gotta love retail?? Hmm... Well, I could jump on that bandwagon and suggest you buy someone a painting for Valentine's Day!! :)
Ok, enough from me... I'll pop myself into bed and keep trucking away tomorrow. :)
Good night!
Tonight was another productive night. I finished up last night's (Dec 24th's) painting "Sunny Splash" and I really like the way it turned out. I also did one for tonight, unoriginally titled "Cats" and then started on a background for one that'll either be for December 26th or 30th. I'm pretty much all caught up though. The 26th is the only hole from the trip and then it's just the 30th and 31st which I can do on their actual nights! Woo-hoo!
I am behind in my emails I know... if you are reading this and have a painting on reserve then I haven't forgotten you... I just haven't gotten all my ducks in a row just yet. To those who have sent money, your paintings are going to be shipped tomorrow I absolutely 100% promise! I do apologize for the chaos... I can only blame myself, my disorganization, and the holiday mayhem that still hovers. Although, we did take down our Christmas tree and some of the decorations today. The living room is slowly being de-holidayed.
I was horrified to see Valentine's Day stuff in the stores today though. Oh. My. Gosh. Do we not move fast enough already?? My son's birthday is February 12th.... let me get a little closer to that before all the heart-shaped stuff gets plastered everywhere!! Sigh... gotta love retail?? Hmm... Well, I could jump on that bandwagon and suggest you buy someone a painting for Valentine's Day!! :)
Ok, enough from me... I'll pop myself into bed and keep trucking away tomorrow. :)
Good night!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Late Night Post
Update: touched up the catalogue with the requests I received over the past week. I will get in touch with people I promise... just not tonight as it's after 1am.
Only have five and a half paintings to go... found my stash of "spares" that I had painted during the year to supplement any sick days and/or test days etc. I think there were about three of them! Oops, four... So, hardly a stash... more of a blip. However, they do come in handy and I like them... so there you go. :)
Tonight was quite the painting night! I finished "Two Blue", "Whisper", and started "Sunny Splash". I used four paintings to cover some of the absent days... they are: "Forest" for Dec 20, "Purple Whip" for Dec 21, "Ice Age Fingerprint" for Dec 22, and "Autumn Sunset" for Dec 23. Due to an error in my date/memory process, I accidentally dated two paintings for the 18th. "Heartstrings" which was painted that day, and "Owl" which was either that day or the next day. Anyway, I've decided to make the 18th "Owl", and due to the subject matter being close to my heart, moved "Heartstrings" to the 25th.
I can't quite believe it's the last week... really, the final three days... time has certainly flown by this year. I meant every word I said in every interview... this has been a life changing project and it only makes me want to do more and recognize that anyone and everyone CAN do something. Big or small, it doesn't matter... it's only a bit of time that's required. And hey, if I have time, anyone has time! :) I have plans for next year too... already collecting buttons... thanks to my Mother-in-Law for her help with a huge button donation! If anyone else wants to toss some buttons my way I'd appreciate it. :) I'll post a link to the new blog here as well... in case anyone wants to follow the next project. It won't be a daily thing I don't think... after all, I've promised Chris not to get too involved until school is through... but I hope to start with the new year and build up to a big finish. :)
Anyway... I really must get to bed... funny, I thought the vacation would mean early bedtimes. Silly me! But, it was a very productive night and I'm happy with the result so it's ok. Good night... and enjoy the final days of 2011!
Only have five and a half paintings to go... found my stash of "spares" that I had painted during the year to supplement any sick days and/or test days etc. I think there were about three of them! Oops, four... So, hardly a stash... more of a blip. However, they do come in handy and I like them... so there you go. :)
Tonight was quite the painting night! I finished "Two Blue", "Whisper", and started "Sunny Splash". I used four paintings to cover some of the absent days... they are: "Forest" for Dec 20, "Purple Whip" for Dec 21, "Ice Age Fingerprint" for Dec 22, and "Autumn Sunset" for Dec 23. Due to an error in my date/memory process, I accidentally dated two paintings for the 18th. "Heartstrings" which was painted that day, and "Owl" which was either that day or the next day. Anyway, I've decided to make the 18th "Owl", and due to the subject matter being close to my heart, moved "Heartstrings" to the 25th.
I can't quite believe it's the last week... really, the final three days... time has certainly flown by this year. I meant every word I said in every interview... this has been a life changing project and it only makes me want to do more and recognize that anyone and everyone CAN do something. Big or small, it doesn't matter... it's only a bit of time that's required. And hey, if I have time, anyone has time! :) I have plans for next year too... already collecting buttons... thanks to my Mother-in-Law for her help with a huge button donation! If anyone else wants to toss some buttons my way I'd appreciate it. :) I'll post a link to the new blog here as well... in case anyone wants to follow the next project. It won't be a daily thing I don't think... after all, I've promised Chris not to get too involved until school is through... but I hope to start with the new year and build up to a big finish. :)
Anyway... I really must get to bed... funny, I thought the vacation would mean early bedtimes. Silly me! But, it was a very productive night and I'm happy with the result so it's ok. Good night... and enjoy the final days of 2011!
Home Again, Home Again!!
Jiggity jig...
Ok... so we're finally home! I say finally because we had quite the long night last night... our plane got to Toronto just fine, we made it to the gate to the sounds of "final boarding call" and then had to wait as patiently as possible for an hour on the plane until we could be de-iced and on our way. Got to the Halifax airport to find no waiting available taxis, so had to wait in line to get one... made it home around 2:30am. Then Chris decided to pop out to get some groceries since the kids were none too pleased that we didn't have milk in the fridge. He got in around 3 and I think we finally nodded off around 3:30. Then he got up for work at 6. Ugh.
Right now both kids are at daycare, one happily, the other still making up her mind, but I did cave and call to check on her and she was doing just fine. So... now is my time to zonk out for a wee bit, do a little unpacking, tidying, supper prep, and oh yes, painting!
For everyone who emailed me while we were away, I promise to get back to you (again) to make any and all arrangements. Thank you SO much for your patience and understanding!!
Oh... and one quick little interesting note... my painting of Jack Layton will be hanging in a political office in Ottawa some time in the next day or so! Very cool. :)
And now... off I go to tie up all the loose ends and maybe, just maybe, have a little nap if I get the chance.
Will post more later...
Ok... so we're finally home! I say finally because we had quite the long night last night... our plane got to Toronto just fine, we made it to the gate to the sounds of "final boarding call" and then had to wait as patiently as possible for an hour on the plane until we could be de-iced and on our way. Got to the Halifax airport to find no waiting available taxis, so had to wait in line to get one... made it home around 2:30am. Then Chris decided to pop out to get some groceries since the kids were none too pleased that we didn't have milk in the fridge. He got in around 3 and I think we finally nodded off around 3:30. Then he got up for work at 6. Ugh.
Right now both kids are at daycare, one happily, the other still making up her mind, but I did cave and call to check on her and she was doing just fine. So... now is my time to zonk out for a wee bit, do a little unpacking, tidying, supper prep, and oh yes, painting!
For everyone who emailed me while we were away, I promise to get back to you (again) to make any and all arrangements. Thank you SO much for your patience and understanding!!
Oh... and one quick little interesting note... my painting of Jack Layton will be hanging in a political office in Ottawa some time in the next day or so! Very cool. :)
And now... off I go to tie up all the loose ends and maybe, just maybe, have a little nap if I get the chance.
Will post more later...
Friday, December 23, 2011
51 Weeks - No Photos, A Video Instead!
Hey Everyone!! Almost to 10,000!! I do not have any pictures to post today as I am still away visiting relatives for the holidays and my paintings are all at home. So... I will do a grand finale post next week with the last two weeks all at once. Something to look forward to!
For now... here is the video of the Live at 5 - CTV interview! SO EXCITED!!
I hope everyone who celebrates Christmas is getting excited... I know my two kids (and me!) certainly are. And, if you don't happen to celebrate then I hope you will accept my warm wishes for a happy weekend all the same! We celebrate from a secular perspective with the emphasis on showing your affection for family and friends and we do have a tree and exchange gifts. Pretty much that's about it. Nothing pagan per se, and nothing overly Christian except perhaps the odd carol. I figure that's ok because we don't go overly commercial either. Just keep it warm and fuzzy with the spirit of giving and sharing. I see nothing wrong with that and challenge anyone who does to come up with a compelling reason otherwise. :)
For now, I'm going to sign off and enjoy a little hot chocolate with a Christmas special on the tv... The kids are tucked into bed and the rest of us are going to kick our feet up and hopefully not fall asleep again. I nodded off this afternoon in front of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. Oy. It has been a year of sleep deprivation and it has totally caught up to me!! :) So, good night, merry Christmas Eve Eve... and I'll pop on again soon!
To everyone who has emailed me, please be patient with me and my slow replies. We're off to the museum of natural history tomorrow and it isn't always easy to get computer time. Thanks to all!!! Good night!
For now... here is the video of the Live at 5 - CTV interview! SO EXCITED!!
I hope everyone who celebrates Christmas is getting excited... I know my two kids (and me!) certainly are. And, if you don't happen to celebrate then I hope you will accept my warm wishes for a happy weekend all the same! We celebrate from a secular perspective with the emphasis on showing your affection for family and friends and we do have a tree and exchange gifts. Pretty much that's about it. Nothing pagan per se, and nothing overly Christian except perhaps the odd carol. I figure that's ok because we don't go overly commercial either. Just keep it warm and fuzzy with the spirit of giving and sharing. I see nothing wrong with that and challenge anyone who does to come up with a compelling reason otherwise. :)
For now, I'm going to sign off and enjoy a little hot chocolate with a Christmas special on the tv... The kids are tucked into bed and the rest of us are going to kick our feet up and hopefully not fall asleep again. I nodded off this afternoon in front of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. Oy. It has been a year of sleep deprivation and it has totally caught up to me!! :) So, good night, merry Christmas Eve Eve... and I'll pop on again soon!
To everyone who has emailed me, please be patient with me and my slow replies. We're off to the museum of natural history tomorrow and it isn't always easy to get computer time. Thanks to all!!! Good night!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
A Post From Afar
Well, as you probably figured out, we're away for the week. So, I doubt I'll manage a nightly post... and I will definitely have some catching up to do when we get back. I did manage a few paintings in advance and there's even a small chance I can do a couple while we're here, so who knows? Maybe I'll have something to share!
Speaking of sharing... Monday was the spot on CTV's Live at Five!! I wish I could have seen it... turns out my parents missed it too... they were watching CBC and their neighbour called to say he'd seen the bit on CTV. Oops! I'm hoping someone will have taped it and/or I can find an archive online. Here's hoping!
Over 9700 now... so maybe, just maybe, we'll make it over 10,000! Hey, a girl's gotta dream!
I won't write too much now, it may only be 9:30 here, but it feels like almost midnight! Hope to pop on again tomorrow... will do my best. The kids had a good day today... made a snowman and took a few toboggan rides. Lots of fun! Anyway... have a great night and a good day tomorrow!
Speaking of sharing... Monday was the spot on CTV's Live at Five!! I wish I could have seen it... turns out my parents missed it too... they were watching CBC and their neighbour called to say he'd seen the bit on CTV. Oops! I'm hoping someone will have taped it and/or I can find an archive online. Here's hoping!
Over 9700 now... so maybe, just maybe, we'll make it over 10,000! Hey, a girl's gotta dream!
I won't write too much now, it may only be 9:30 here, but it feels like almost midnight! Hope to pop on again tomorrow... will do my best. The kids had a good day today... made a snowman and took a few toboggan rides. Lots of fun! Anyway... have a great night and a good day tomorrow!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Twas the Night Before...
Today was a busy day... lots of packing and prep for our trip out West. I did manage to squeeze in some painting time while the kids were napping though! I'm feeling pretty good about it too. Finished an 8x10 that is inspired by "Valentine" and two 4x4s. The 8x10 is called "Heartstrings" and the two little ones don't have titles yet, but are of a cute little penguin and an owl.
I'm going to keep this post short because we're getting up at 4:30am. It's not much earlier than I was getting up for school, but any time the clock starts with a 4 it just feels really bad. I do not know how people who work early shifts or overnight do it! My body doesn't co-operate with me at that hour. Really, anytime before 7 and I'm moving pretty slowly! So... some sleep then a big trip. :)
I would feel weird about posting that we're going away, except that we have super vigilant neighbours who will practically be living at our house while we're gone... so it's no big deal. Besides... we don't have anything worth stealing! Except paintings... :) So, thanks to our friendly neighbours and have a great Christmas. I'll probably still blog while we're away... so you'll get to hear about our adventures. Good night!
I'm going to keep this post short because we're getting up at 4:30am. It's not much earlier than I was getting up for school, but any time the clock starts with a 4 it just feels really bad. I do not know how people who work early shifts or overnight do it! My body doesn't co-operate with me at that hour. Really, anytime before 7 and I'm moving pretty slowly! So... some sleep then a big trip. :)
I would feel weird about posting that we're going away, except that we have super vigilant neighbours who will practically be living at our house while we're gone... so it's no big deal. Besides... we don't have anything worth stealing! Except paintings... :) So, thanks to our friendly neighbours and have a great Christmas. I'll probably still blog while we're away... so you'll get to hear about our adventures. Good night!
Saturday, December 17, 2011
The Final Two Weeks
So, as you probably already know, we're going away for a week for Christmas. This means, basically, that I will likely not be posting photos this Friday for week 51. Instead, there will be a larger two week posting at the very end of the year.
This may change if I get some art supplies while out west. I can't promise anything because, hey, it's Christmas! I will say that I have painted a few extras now and I intend to "catch up" when I get back. So there will be 365 paintings at the end of the year like I promised.
Tonight's painting is a 4x4 canvas called "Itty Bitty" and it is a tree (again, I know). I love those trees, and I think I'm not alone! I called it Itty Bitty because it's a small painting and it's a little tree. Not perhaps my most original title, but certainly not my least either! Oh titles... they really do give me a hard time! Almost as hard as coming up with an idea when I'm stuck.
Sold six paintings today! Five little animals and "Raindrop" - the 5x5 one. I noticed as I was going through the catalogue Chris made, that there are more than one of some titles... whoops. Guess I really am less creative with the names than I thought! A few starry nights, a couple of raindrops... I'm sure there are more... So, just note the date in particular or at least the size so I know which one you mean!
To a slightly less fun topic... there are a few people with paintings who have already agreed on a donation but have not yet made that donation. I would greatly appreciate it if those of you would please make good on that as soon as you can. Mostly so that I know what is what and I don't have to chase anyone down as that makes me, and likely you too, feel uncomfortable. Thanks... I appreciate it.
Otherwise, today was a pretty good day. Still sick... but doing ok. Got lots of painting done tonight too. Finished an enlargement of "Valentine" for a lady who asked for it... I've temporarily forgotten who it was, but it's in my email. It will have its own title as well... Lots of people are asking for specific paintings which is great. It certainly takes the guesswork out of an evening!
Oh yes... I said it was a good day... this is a great example of how I am trying hard to focus on the good stuff. I would like to share a mishap of my day... just to provide a little perspective of my life. I went to the freezer to get out some food for lunch and perhaps something to make for supper when I found that our freezer was not actually on. Everything had thawed. It was still pretty cold, mostly because we hadn't gone into it in a few days, but wow. That wasn't a highlight of the day for sure! We tossed all the poultry, but kept the steaks because they were still chilly and my brother said they were probably ok. So... if we all come down with food poisoning in the next 24 hours or so, you'll know why. Good times. I feel ok so far, so hopefully all was well. I really cooked the living daylights out of them too! Sad for the steaks. Anyway... at the time I was pretty upset because it's wasteful in terms of the food and the money. However... as the afternoon went on I realized that it wasn't such a big deal. A loss, sure, but really... not an insurmountable one. It could always be worse! I think that's pretty indicative of the changes I'm trying to make in how I view the world. I could dwell on the spoiled food and really feel awful, or I could look at it as the minor inconvenience that it is, and hopefully remind myself that we bought a lot of it on special so it probably wasn't that expensive, and that we do have the means to buy groceries... when we get back. I'm just really glad it was only an unplugging issue and not a broken freezer. So there's the silver lining. Fixable problem. :)
And now to bed... sleep is good... I'm going to cross my fingers the kids let us sleep in a bit tomorrow. You know, till 7:30 maybe. :) Have a great night!!
This may change if I get some art supplies while out west. I can't promise anything because, hey, it's Christmas! I will say that I have painted a few extras now and I intend to "catch up" when I get back. So there will be 365 paintings at the end of the year like I promised.
Tonight's painting is a 4x4 canvas called "Itty Bitty" and it is a tree (again, I know). I love those trees, and I think I'm not alone! I called it Itty Bitty because it's a small painting and it's a little tree. Not perhaps my most original title, but certainly not my least either! Oh titles... they really do give me a hard time! Almost as hard as coming up with an idea when I'm stuck.
Sold six paintings today! Five little animals and "Raindrop" - the 5x5 one. I noticed as I was going through the catalogue Chris made, that there are more than one of some titles... whoops. Guess I really am less creative with the names than I thought! A few starry nights, a couple of raindrops... I'm sure there are more... So, just note the date in particular or at least the size so I know which one you mean!
To a slightly less fun topic... there are a few people with paintings who have already agreed on a donation but have not yet made that donation. I would greatly appreciate it if those of you would please make good on that as soon as you can. Mostly so that I know what is what and I don't have to chase anyone down as that makes me, and likely you too, feel uncomfortable. Thanks... I appreciate it.
Otherwise, today was a pretty good day. Still sick... but doing ok. Got lots of painting done tonight too. Finished an enlargement of "Valentine" for a lady who asked for it... I've temporarily forgotten who it was, but it's in my email. It will have its own title as well... Lots of people are asking for specific paintings which is great. It certainly takes the guesswork out of an evening!
Oh yes... I said it was a good day... this is a great example of how I am trying hard to focus on the good stuff. I would like to share a mishap of my day... just to provide a little perspective of my life. I went to the freezer to get out some food for lunch and perhaps something to make for supper when I found that our freezer was not actually on. Everything had thawed. It was still pretty cold, mostly because we hadn't gone into it in a few days, but wow. That wasn't a highlight of the day for sure! We tossed all the poultry, but kept the steaks because they were still chilly and my brother said they were probably ok. So... if we all come down with food poisoning in the next 24 hours or so, you'll know why. Good times. I feel ok so far, so hopefully all was well. I really cooked the living daylights out of them too! Sad for the steaks. Anyway... at the time I was pretty upset because it's wasteful in terms of the food and the money. However... as the afternoon went on I realized that it wasn't such a big deal. A loss, sure, but really... not an insurmountable one. It could always be worse! I think that's pretty indicative of the changes I'm trying to make in how I view the world. I could dwell on the spoiled food and really feel awful, or I could look at it as the minor inconvenience that it is, and hopefully remind myself that we bought a lot of it on special so it probably wasn't that expensive, and that we do have the means to buy groceries... when we get back. I'm just really glad it was only an unplugging issue and not a broken freezer. So there's the silver lining. Fixable problem. :)
And now to bed... sleep is good... I'm going to cross my fingers the kids let us sleep in a bit tomorrow. You know, till 7:30 maybe. :) Have a great night!!
Friday, December 16, 2011
50th Week! Second Last Weekly Post
Fifty Weeks!! I feel like I should be having a party or something... so close to the end of the year and what an amazing day this has been!
Chris let me sleep in this morning... what a guy, eh? He took care of both kids, got them all ready and off to daycare. They did come up to say bye to me and it was so sweet... they were full of smiles, cuteness, and hugs. Then I went back to sleep for a bit... needed it, believe me!
At 10am CTV reporter Jill Matthews and the camera operator (I'm so sorry I've forgotten his name!!) came by to do an interview. That was pretty cool. They were both really nice and I'm SO excited that it's going to be on Live at 5 next week!! Someone please tape it as I won't be able to see it!
Then, Chris and I went out to do a bit of last minute Christmas shopping for the kids. We even took advantage of the opportunity to go out for lunch together! Love impromptu dates! Then back home just in time to meet with CBC reporter Yvonne Colbert, camera operator Steve, and a very lovely intern who I'm very embarrassed to say I've forgotten her name too. She bought a painting too so it's doubly bad that I can't remember. I want to say Stephanie, but that's my sister's name, so now I'm not sure. Sorry!!! I blame the strep throat. Can I do that?
After that very fun interview we had a visit from some friends... who bought today's painting (and made me sign the front of it!)... Chris picked up the kids, we had some supper and playtime, then it was off to bed for the little ones and a bit of relaxing for us.
It's funny... it was a really good day, but I feel exhausted now! Not too tired though... at least, not so tired I can't post this week's paintings! My apologies for Little Quack... it seems I did not take a photo before selling it, so I had to find a picture that had it in it. The angle is terrible... but you can get the general idea! So, here you are... week 50: Enjoy!
Chris let me sleep in this morning... what a guy, eh? He took care of both kids, got them all ready and off to daycare. They did come up to say bye to me and it was so sweet... they were full of smiles, cuteness, and hugs. Then I went back to sleep for a bit... needed it, believe me!
At 10am CTV reporter Jill Matthews and the camera operator (I'm so sorry I've forgotten his name!!) came by to do an interview. That was pretty cool. They were both really nice and I'm SO excited that it's going to be on Live at 5 next week!! Someone please tape it as I won't be able to see it!
Then, Chris and I went out to do a bit of last minute Christmas shopping for the kids. We even took advantage of the opportunity to go out for lunch together! Love impromptu dates! Then back home just in time to meet with CBC reporter Yvonne Colbert, camera operator Steve, and a very lovely intern who I'm very embarrassed to say I've forgotten her name too. She bought a painting too so it's doubly bad that I can't remember. I want to say Stephanie, but that's my sister's name, so now I'm not sure. Sorry!!! I blame the strep throat. Can I do that?
After that very fun interview we had a visit from some friends... who bought today's painting (and made me sign the front of it!)... Chris picked up the kids, we had some supper and playtime, then it was off to bed for the little ones and a bit of relaxing for us.
It's funny... it was a really good day, but I feel exhausted now! Not too tired though... at least, not so tired I can't post this week's paintings! My apologies for Little Quack... it seems I did not take a photo before selling it, so I had to find a picture that had it in it. The angle is terrible... but you can get the general idea! So, here you are... week 50: Enjoy!
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| December 10 - Golden Moment |
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| December 11 - Zen |
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| December 12 - Little Quack |
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| December 13 - Ovie |
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| December 14 - Anxiety Attack |
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| December 15 - Sunset Branches |
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| December 16 - 350 |
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Excitement City!
So... school is done for 2011! It felt a little weird to just be able to paint tonight... no studying to do, no reading to get done, no evaluations to stress over... just me, my canvas, paints and a bunch of brushes. It felt weird, but oh so good!
Don't get me wrong... I actually really love school. I enjoy the environment, the learning, and the people. Buuuut... it's also nice to take a breather and enjoy Christmas with my family without work!
I did go to the walk-in clinic today... my throat was (is) still sore and there was some white-ish spots so that's usually a warning sign that strep throat may have moved in. Oh indeedy. The doc's expression was nearly priceless! I think he said something along the lines of "Oh! Yup... that's strep alright." while backing away a bit. Must have been pretty obvious. I don't mind... no throat swab of doom needed. :) Plus, now I have some lovely antibiotics. Bring on the feeling better!
Tonight's painting is called "Sunset Branches" and is an 8x10 tree painting. So many people have asked about the trees that I thought I ought to do a few more! I love them... and it seems like they're popular... so why not?
I also thought I should do a bit of an update... so far there have been 148 paintings sold (I may have missed one or two, so bear with me) and 22 are on 'reserve'. So that leaves 195 still to sell! I haven't done the money count yet, but I'd wager it's up over two thousand by now. Probably on its way to 3000! Here's hoping! I'd love love LOVE to get it up over four thousand. That would make me so very happy!
Oh, and CTV is coming over tomorrow morning to do an interview! I think Jill, the reporter, said it may air next week... so I guess I'll have to troll the internet to find it. If anyone happens to see it, please feel free to tape it! :) CTV is pretty popular so I'm really excited that they're finding this project of interest. The more people that hear about it and want to support it, the better! Let's grant some wishes!!!
And now... since it's late... and I'm sick, sick, sick... I'm going to bed. I'm secretly hoping my very wonderful husband will say "it's ok honey, why don't you sleep in a bit" tomorrow morning. :) Crossing my fingers!
Until tomorrow... and more pictures!! Good night!
Don't get me wrong... I actually really love school. I enjoy the environment, the learning, and the people. Buuuut... it's also nice to take a breather and enjoy Christmas with my family without work!
I did go to the walk-in clinic today... my throat was (is) still sore and there was some white-ish spots so that's usually a warning sign that strep throat may have moved in. Oh indeedy. The doc's expression was nearly priceless! I think he said something along the lines of "Oh! Yup... that's strep alright." while backing away a bit. Must have been pretty obvious. I don't mind... no throat swab of doom needed. :) Plus, now I have some lovely antibiotics. Bring on the feeling better!
Tonight's painting is called "Sunset Branches" and is an 8x10 tree painting. So many people have asked about the trees that I thought I ought to do a few more! I love them... and it seems like they're popular... so why not?
I also thought I should do a bit of an update... so far there have been 148 paintings sold (I may have missed one or two, so bear with me) and 22 are on 'reserve'. So that leaves 195 still to sell! I haven't done the money count yet, but I'd wager it's up over two thousand by now. Probably on its way to 3000! Here's hoping! I'd love love LOVE to get it up over four thousand. That would make me so very happy!
Oh, and CTV is coming over tomorrow morning to do an interview! I think Jill, the reporter, said it may air next week... so I guess I'll have to troll the internet to find it. If anyone happens to see it, please feel free to tape it! :) CTV is pretty popular so I'm really excited that they're finding this project of interest. The more people that hear about it and want to support it, the better! Let's grant some wishes!!!
And now... since it's late... and I'm sick, sick, sick... I'm going to bed. I'm secretly hoping my very wonderful husband will say "it's ok honey, why don't you sleep in a bit" tomorrow morning. :) Crossing my fingers!
Until tomorrow... and more pictures!! Good night!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
What A Day!!!
Today was the day I got to put out a table at NSCC and with the help and support of the class we made it a service learning project and hosted a one-day sale. I thought, hmm... three boxes of paintings is probably overkill... we'll probably only sell about a dozen if we're lucky.
HA HA HA HA HA.
Between 7:30 and 8:30 we had sold that dozen... and it didn't stop there!! I think between the sale at the school and the people who came by the house to pick up paintings, we topped a thousand dollars and over 50 paintings. Plus... my mom sold 20 paintings at her workplace... so thanks everyone out there for their support! Plus, one of the lovely marketing ladies at the school put in a call to CTV and a camera operator showed up to do some filming and he's going to pitch the story idea tomorrow! Here's hoping they see it as a great opportunity to support the community and all those kids!!
Anyway... it was a very mind-blowing wonderful day and I have too many people to thank. I'll focus on two... Jocelyn, our faculty member who has been a champion for the project, and Kelsey who came in at 6:30 this morning to help me unload, set up, and man the table. She was AMAZING! I think I was getting a little muddled toward the middle of the morning... hadn't eaten much at that point and am, unfortunately, sick. But she kept me going and I really appreciate everything she did. Thanks to the other dental ladies who came by the table to support, shop, and encourage. You gals are fabulous!
And to the staff and students at NSCC... you guys should be so proud of what we collectively raised today!! I hope everyone is happy with their paintings and I hope that the lovely warm fuzzy feelings you get from helping Children's Wish stay with you now and forever. Who knows? Maybe someone will be inspired to start their own quirky project to support a cause they are passionate about. Now that would be a wonderful way to pay it forward!
Tonight's painting... getting to the point so I can get on to the mammoth task of updating the catalogue, is called "Anxiety Attack" and is a 5x7 board swirly crazy batch of colour. I guess you could say it's a little reflective of the day's ups and downs and round and round! Between adrenaline, excitement, illness, exhaustion, studying, testing, selling and soon sleeping, it has been an absolutely crazy wonderful day. Wouldn't change it for the world, but am looking forward to my bed too!
Don't forget to check out the new all-in-one viewer available on the left hand side near the galleries. Chris is up to the end of November now... and it is pretty easy to see everything. Plus there's a fun little random painting button. I amuse myself hitting that to see what pops up. It's a nice way to revisit old favourites!
Anyway... off to bed with me. Up again early tomorrow to finish studying. Preferably without falling asleep in my books! Good night!!!
HA HA HA HA HA.
Between 7:30 and 8:30 we had sold that dozen... and it didn't stop there!! I think between the sale at the school and the people who came by the house to pick up paintings, we topped a thousand dollars and over 50 paintings. Plus... my mom sold 20 paintings at her workplace... so thanks everyone out there for their support! Plus, one of the lovely marketing ladies at the school put in a call to CTV and a camera operator showed up to do some filming and he's going to pitch the story idea tomorrow! Here's hoping they see it as a great opportunity to support the community and all those kids!!
Anyway... it was a very mind-blowing wonderful day and I have too many people to thank. I'll focus on two... Jocelyn, our faculty member who has been a champion for the project, and Kelsey who came in at 6:30 this morning to help me unload, set up, and man the table. She was AMAZING! I think I was getting a little muddled toward the middle of the morning... hadn't eaten much at that point and am, unfortunately, sick. But she kept me going and I really appreciate everything she did. Thanks to the other dental ladies who came by the table to support, shop, and encourage. You gals are fabulous!
And to the staff and students at NSCC... you guys should be so proud of what we collectively raised today!! I hope everyone is happy with their paintings and I hope that the lovely warm fuzzy feelings you get from helping Children's Wish stay with you now and forever. Who knows? Maybe someone will be inspired to start their own quirky project to support a cause they are passionate about. Now that would be a wonderful way to pay it forward!
Tonight's painting... getting to the point so I can get on to the mammoth task of updating the catalogue, is called "Anxiety Attack" and is a 5x7 board swirly crazy batch of colour. I guess you could say it's a little reflective of the day's ups and downs and round and round! Between adrenaline, excitement, illness, exhaustion, studying, testing, selling and soon sleeping, it has been an absolutely crazy wonderful day. Wouldn't change it for the world, but am looking forward to my bed too!
Don't forget to check out the new all-in-one viewer available on the left hand side near the galleries. Chris is up to the end of November now... and it is pretty easy to see everything. Plus there's a fun little random painting button. I amuse myself hitting that to see what pops up. It's a nice way to revisit old favourites!
Anyway... off to bed with me. Up again early tomorrow to finish studying. Preferably without falling asleep in my books! Good night!!!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
9200 and Counting!
What an amazing jump! Over 200 views today!!
I'd like to take the opportunity to point out an addition to the links on the left hand side. There, you can find the galleries, organized in two month chunks. At the bottom is the link to the catalogue (please be patient with me, I am trying to stay on top of the sales in between kid time and studying for finals), and at the top is the new link to an all-in-one viewer that my lovely husband Chris has been working quite steadily on for the past few weeks. It's not all there yet, but it will be. He's also trying to show which ones have been sold... so I'd best get on that updating! So, thanks Honey for your help, and hopefully it will go a long way towards helping people find a painting that they like.
In terms of updating the catalogue, I think my biggest problem right now is that I have perhaps not entered a day of craft sales in there. There have been two requests in the past few days about paintings that I have a vague and nagging suspicion that I sold already. I thought I had entered that information in, but can't find it anywhere. I don't have the paintings here, and my mom, who has a box to sell, doesn't seem to have them either. So, I think they found homes already. My sincere apologies to the people who wanted them... I didn't realize that information was not updated after all.
Anyway, tonight, I will stay up late and try to get that sorted out as best as I can....
I finished painting my classmate's request this evening... I'm not sure I like it as much as my other classmate's dogs, the pug and bulldog. Those two turned out fairly well, but I'm not sure about this one. To be fair, I felt even less happy with it last night, but then today Chris complimented it and I even liked it better on a second viewing. Sometimes that just happens... especially if you're frustrated while painting. I may have mentioned that I was falling asleep toward the end so that may have influenced my feelings on the matter.
Anyway, I'll take it with me to school tomorrow... it's the day of the big sale! I sent a message out to the staff and students and I'm hoping that there will be a good response. After all, it's a win-win shopping experience. The buyer finds a gift for themselves or someone else, the recipient gets to enjoy some art, and the Children's Wish Foundation gets some money to help grant some wishes! Everyone wins! So, cross your fingers that tomorrow goes really well... and thanks to everyone who helped make this sale happen!!
Oh, and a special thank you to my mom... she called today and said she sold another five paintings... so that's eleven in the past two days! I'm so happy people are finding paintings they like!!
And now... to update things... thank you again for your patience and understanding... this part of things is so not my forte! Good night and happy almost Wednesday!
P.S. It's just a few minutes before midnight, and to the best of my immediate knowledge (ie, I haven't triple checked) the catalogue is up to date. If you are a person who has reserved a painting please make arrangements with me to pick up/ship/look at/etc the painting(s). Thanks!! And now, good night!
I'd like to take the opportunity to point out an addition to the links on the left hand side. There, you can find the galleries, organized in two month chunks. At the bottom is the link to the catalogue (please be patient with me, I am trying to stay on top of the sales in between kid time and studying for finals), and at the top is the new link to an all-in-one viewer that my lovely husband Chris has been working quite steadily on for the past few weeks. It's not all there yet, but it will be. He's also trying to show which ones have been sold... so I'd best get on that updating! So, thanks Honey for your help, and hopefully it will go a long way towards helping people find a painting that they like.
In terms of updating the catalogue, I think my biggest problem right now is that I have perhaps not entered a day of craft sales in there. There have been two requests in the past few days about paintings that I have a vague and nagging suspicion that I sold already. I thought I had entered that information in, but can't find it anywhere. I don't have the paintings here, and my mom, who has a box to sell, doesn't seem to have them either. So, I think they found homes already. My sincere apologies to the people who wanted them... I didn't realize that information was not updated after all.
Anyway, tonight, I will stay up late and try to get that sorted out as best as I can....
I finished painting my classmate's request this evening... I'm not sure I like it as much as my other classmate's dogs, the pug and bulldog. Those two turned out fairly well, but I'm not sure about this one. To be fair, I felt even less happy with it last night, but then today Chris complimented it and I even liked it better on a second viewing. Sometimes that just happens... especially if you're frustrated while painting. I may have mentioned that I was falling asleep toward the end so that may have influenced my feelings on the matter.
Anyway, I'll take it with me to school tomorrow... it's the day of the big sale! I sent a message out to the staff and students and I'm hoping that there will be a good response. After all, it's a win-win shopping experience. The buyer finds a gift for themselves or someone else, the recipient gets to enjoy some art, and the Children's Wish Foundation gets some money to help grant some wishes! Everyone wins! So, cross your fingers that tomorrow goes really well... and thanks to everyone who helped make this sale happen!!
Oh, and a special thank you to my mom... she called today and said she sold another five paintings... so that's eleven in the past two days! I'm so happy people are finding paintings they like!!
And now... to update things... thank you again for your patience and understanding... this part of things is so not my forte! Good night and happy almost Wednesday!
P.S. It's just a few minutes before midnight, and to the best of my immediate knowledge (ie, I haven't triple checked) the catalogue is up to date. If you are a person who has reserved a painting please make arrangements with me to pick up/ship/look at/etc the painting(s). Thanks!! And now, good night!
Monday, December 12, 2011
Almost to 9000!!
In the past 24 hours there have been viewers in
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| Tonight's painting is called "Little Quack" and is a little duckie on a blue swirly background. It's on a 4x4 canvas and I think he's pretty cute. There have been so many requests for kid friendly art that I've decided to keep doing them as much as I can. I do have a few requests for paintings so I'll do my very best to get them in. I did start a german sheppard tonight... can't say it's going that well.... but I'm trying! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Chris is hard at work on a website that will hopefully display the paintings a little better, plus pertinent information. So, basically, the blog without my ramblings, plus extra information and links to sales info for anyone who wants to do an order online. So... in theory it'll be super awesome. He's posted it to the internet... but has only the first half of the year on there. So... after this week's sale at school I'll try my best to update the catalogue again (because you know we're going to sell a lot... right? right??) and then we'll launch that site as well. :) He's such a sweet guy! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Our daughter started daycare at the same place as our son today... I think it went well. I wasn't there this time... now that was weird! The feedback seems mostly positive. I'm not sure about a few things, but I think it will be ok in the end. So hard to let your kids go sometimes. But... I get to hug, kiss and snuggle them to bits when the workday comes to an end! Love love love! | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| In other news... I think I'm getting sick. I have a pretty indestructible immune system... but I think even it is giving up on me! Perhaps some more sleep would help... I just have to push through the next few weeks and it'll be all good. Cross your fingers that the itchy nose and dry scratchy throat that has snuck up on me today is just a reaction to dry lab air and not the inevitable illness I figured I might get. With my girl sick, and still no shortage of hugs and kisses, it's really only a matter of time before someone else gets it. Usually it's Chris... and maybe it still will be... poor guy gets sick so easily... but me? I refuse. Or at least, I try to refuse. Might be, my luck has run out... | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Good night... and happy thoughts! |
Sunday, December 11, 2011
There are too many paintings in my house!!
Phew... I went through all of the paintings that are currently in my house today. I sorted them by month, re-boxed them so they don't get wrecked, displayed some, got things all tidy and even sold three! It took pretty much all morning to go through everything. I've been trying to cross-reference what I have here at the house and what I know for sure has been sold. There are some on reserve... which I hope will change to 'sold' soon (hint hint, dear and wonderful friends who have said they want certain paintings)... and with all the end of school chaos it has been a bit too easy to not update things everywhere they need updating. So... I'm working on the paperwork side of things and getting it all cleaned up and accounted for.
I cannot believe that there are only three weeks left to this year. What am I going to do with myself in January?? Oh yeah, more school. hehehe
Yes, I have another project in mind... but I think it'll be less of a daily project and more of a monthly goal kind of thing. So as to take some of the pressure off and let me focus even more on school and my beautiful wonderful children. (and my husband!! Let's not forget about him!)
I've been enjoying the blogging as well, so maybe just maybe I'll start a new one for that project too. I know I've promised Chris to not do anything until school is over, but maybe I can talk him into this one little thing. ;)
So... this is the last week of school. Four days. Four tests. Bring it on! I managed to study a bit while waiting at the walk in clinic today. Yup, orthodontic instruments make for great waiting room reading. Woo-hoo. :) I actually feel pretty good about this week. Might be because I'm finished the practical evaluations... gives me an extra night to really focus on the book stuff, as well as lower the overall stress of the week. My plan is to bake a bunch (didn't get anywhere near as much done today as I'd like) and prep for our trip out west. I can't quite believe the first term of school is almost over! It really does feel like just yesterday I was starting again, all nervous about being a full-time student! I love it though... I really do. I like the learning environment, I love the challenges, and I don't even mind the assignments. Shh.... don't tell! So, wish me luck this week... I'll try to keep my head about me and not freak out too much. You might just see some weird paintings this week!
Speaking of paintings... you know, the reason for being here... I painted "Zen" tonight. It's a bowl of smooth grey stones with white flowers on long stems. That sounds a bit odd, but I don't know the name of the flowers so you'll have to take my word for it. I think they look pretty cool... peaceful anyway. I did it for Susan in the cafeteria at school. She asked me about a couple of ideas so last night and tonight I tried to do them up. I'll take them in with me tomorrow and see what she thinks. Oh, it's on a 4x4... I think. Might be a 5x5... Hmm... now I'm not sure... I need a ruler down there!
In other news... my husband is off this week so my little girl can switch daycares. She'll be with her big brother now. This should be interesting... I feel so bad on one hand that I'm taking her away from the place where she's comfortable and switching her so she has to get to know new people again. But on the other hand, she won't have to sit in the car for so long each day, she would have changed to the toddler room pretty soon at the first place anyway, and I won't be at school forever so she'd have to change at the end of the year regardless. Plus, this way she will be with her brother too... and she has met the teachers a few times so I think it will be less of a shock. Although I'll be a basket case tomorrow, I know she's in good hands and Chris will be right there to help her out. It is so strange to let go of the 'control' like this. I've gotten used to being the one to pick her up and drop her off. I kiss her goodbye in the morning... what am I going to do without that every day?? Oh I hope I don't cry tomorrow... good thing I never wear makeup!
Anyway... off to bed. I think my other eye is starting to feel gross now too, so hopefully some rest will stop that before it starts. Here's hoping! Good night everyone and think happy thoughts!
I cannot believe that there are only three weeks left to this year. What am I going to do with myself in January?? Oh yeah, more school. hehehe
Yes, I have another project in mind... but I think it'll be less of a daily project and more of a monthly goal kind of thing. So as to take some of the pressure off and let me focus even more on school and my beautiful wonderful children. (and my husband!! Let's not forget about him!)
I've been enjoying the blogging as well, so maybe just maybe I'll start a new one for that project too. I know I've promised Chris to not do anything until school is over, but maybe I can talk him into this one little thing. ;)
So... this is the last week of school. Four days. Four tests. Bring it on! I managed to study a bit while waiting at the walk in clinic today. Yup, orthodontic instruments make for great waiting room reading. Woo-hoo. :) I actually feel pretty good about this week. Might be because I'm finished the practical evaluations... gives me an extra night to really focus on the book stuff, as well as lower the overall stress of the week. My plan is to bake a bunch (didn't get anywhere near as much done today as I'd like) and prep for our trip out west. I can't quite believe the first term of school is almost over! It really does feel like just yesterday I was starting again, all nervous about being a full-time student! I love it though... I really do. I like the learning environment, I love the challenges, and I don't even mind the assignments. Shh.... don't tell! So, wish me luck this week... I'll try to keep my head about me and not freak out too much. You might just see some weird paintings this week!
Speaking of paintings... you know, the reason for being here... I painted "Zen" tonight. It's a bowl of smooth grey stones with white flowers on long stems. That sounds a bit odd, but I don't know the name of the flowers so you'll have to take my word for it. I think they look pretty cool... peaceful anyway. I did it for Susan in the cafeteria at school. She asked me about a couple of ideas so last night and tonight I tried to do them up. I'll take them in with me tomorrow and see what she thinks. Oh, it's on a 4x4... I think. Might be a 5x5... Hmm... now I'm not sure... I need a ruler down there!
In other news... my husband is off this week so my little girl can switch daycares. She'll be with her big brother now. This should be interesting... I feel so bad on one hand that I'm taking her away from the place where she's comfortable and switching her so she has to get to know new people again. But on the other hand, she won't have to sit in the car for so long each day, she would have changed to the toddler room pretty soon at the first place anyway, and I won't be at school forever so she'd have to change at the end of the year regardless. Plus, this way she will be with her brother too... and she has met the teachers a few times so I think it will be less of a shock. Although I'll be a basket case tomorrow, I know she's in good hands and Chris will be right there to help her out. It is so strange to let go of the 'control' like this. I've gotten used to being the one to pick her up and drop her off. I kiss her goodbye in the morning... what am I going to do without that every day?? Oh I hope I don't cry tomorrow... good thing I never wear makeup!
Anyway... off to bed. I think my other eye is starting to feel gross now too, so hopefully some rest will stop that before it starts. Here's hoping! Good night everyone and think happy thoughts!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Getting Run Down
You know you're a bit on the overtired side when you fall asleep anytime you stop actually doing anything! I conked out on the drive up to my parents house, and again on the way home. At least tonight I didn't fall asleep with a paintbrush in my hand! Small comfort...
I think, in three weeks, I'm going to start treating myself to 9:30pm bedtimes! Maybe that's what I'll ask Santa for, for Christmas... sleep in days and early nights. Oh my, I'm getting old. lol
Or, maybe it's just the past 343 nights of less sleep. Worth every bit though. :)
Isn't that crazy? It has been 343 days of this project. That's 343 paintings. 343!! Never in my wildest dreams...
So tonight I started the flower painting for Sue, the lovely cafeteria lady who makes great chicken wraps. Yes, I buy my lunch way more often than I should. Sigh. Anyway, she asked me if I could do a painting for a renovation she's doing and I said I would give it a shot. So, I think she may have wanted a larger canvas size, but the 5x5 was what I had. I've decided not to buy any more.... I have enough at home to see me to the end of the year, so I'll just have to work it out with what I've got. Shouldn't be hard... mostly I have 8x10s and 4x4s left. Good for doing a themed series! I called tonight's painting "Golden Moment" because it's a yellow flower on a turquoisy background. It made me think of all the words I could use for yellow, I settled on golden, and then one of the characters on the tv show I had on said "golden moment" and it just seemed to perfect to pass up. Of course, now that I think about it, I think she's planning on putting the painting in her newly decorated bathroom... so maybe that's not such a good title after all. Either that or it's perfect. ;)
Anyway... I'm going to take my mysteriously swollen eye to bed... it started aching yesterday, with no apparent reason... and if it's still bugging me in the morning I'm going to get checked out. Yup, I may be a bit overcautious about the medical stuff, it's the streak of hypochondria I have, but these are my eyes... I need them. So, cross your fingers that it feels fine tomorrow, or if I do have to go to the doctor, that it ends up being a super quick and easy fix! Hope everyone had a great Saturday... two weeks until Christmas! Good night!
I think, in three weeks, I'm going to start treating myself to 9:30pm bedtimes! Maybe that's what I'll ask Santa for, for Christmas... sleep in days and early nights. Oh my, I'm getting old. lol
Or, maybe it's just the past 343 nights of less sleep. Worth every bit though. :)
Isn't that crazy? It has been 343 days of this project. That's 343 paintings. 343!! Never in my wildest dreams...
So tonight I started the flower painting for Sue, the lovely cafeteria lady who makes great chicken wraps. Yes, I buy my lunch way more often than I should. Sigh. Anyway, she asked me if I could do a painting for a renovation she's doing and I said I would give it a shot. So, I think she may have wanted a larger canvas size, but the 5x5 was what I had. I've decided not to buy any more.... I have enough at home to see me to the end of the year, so I'll just have to work it out with what I've got. Shouldn't be hard... mostly I have 8x10s and 4x4s left. Good for doing a themed series! I called tonight's painting "Golden Moment" because it's a yellow flower on a turquoisy background. It made me think of all the words I could use for yellow, I settled on golden, and then one of the characters on the tv show I had on said "golden moment" and it just seemed to perfect to pass up. Of course, now that I think about it, I think she's planning on putting the painting in her newly decorated bathroom... so maybe that's not such a good title after all. Either that or it's perfect. ;)
Anyway... I'm going to take my mysteriously swollen eye to bed... it started aching yesterday, with no apparent reason... and if it's still bugging me in the morning I'm going to get checked out. Yup, I may be a bit overcautious about the medical stuff, it's the streak of hypochondria I have, but these are my eyes... I need them. So, cross your fingers that it feels fine tomorrow, or if I do have to go to the doctor, that it ends up being a super quick and easy fix! Hope everyone had a great Saturday... two weeks until Christmas! Good night!
Friday, December 9, 2011
Amazing Week 49
Ok, so a quick recap...
This week has seen over 1200 blog views, that's more than in some months!
The CBC interview with Olga Milosevich was aired again on the 6th.
The Chronicle-Herald interview was printed with a huge story on the 7th.
The Premier's constituency office called and left a message on the 8th.
I visited the Provincial Legislature to see if I could attend the reading of a resolution about this project. I did miss the reading, but have since seen it on the re-broadcasting online. Oh, and I met the Speaker who personally assisted me and found me an unofficial copy of the resolution that Premier Dexter read. He was very nice to me. Also, the gentlemen who work security at the Province House were so sweet to me! They helped me out, showed me around the galleries, and answered my questions. I must have seemed like a starry-eyed teenager! So exciting!
And... possibly the very best part... all of this media attention has translated into over a dozen emails from people who want to give feedback, encouragement, stories, and to buy painting(s) to support the Children's Wish Foundation!!! This is incredible! This week is so amazing. On the 4th I was so happy that we got to 7500... and now we're over 8700!! In five days!
Anyway... I should keep this relatively short, believe me I could ramble on for hours about how happy and excited, not to mention honoured, I am! I'll stop here.... Tonight's painting is another little bird on a 4x4 canvas. It's a lot like "Grumpy Gus" actually... I had fun painting him and he sold almost immediately so I thought I'd do up another, similar one.
So... here are the pictures and I promise to update the catalogue tomorrow to reflect all the recent sales and reserves. My apologies for my tardiness... but it's been a busy busy week!! :)
This week has seen over 1200 blog views, that's more than in some months!
The CBC interview with Olga Milosevich was aired again on the 6th.
The Chronicle-Herald interview was printed with a huge story on the 7th.
The Premier's constituency office called and left a message on the 8th.
I visited the Provincial Legislature to see if I could attend the reading of a resolution about this project. I did miss the reading, but have since seen it on the re-broadcasting online. Oh, and I met the Speaker who personally assisted me and found me an unofficial copy of the resolution that Premier Dexter read. He was very nice to me. Also, the gentlemen who work security at the Province House were so sweet to me! They helped me out, showed me around the galleries, and answered my questions. I must have seemed like a starry-eyed teenager! So exciting!
And... possibly the very best part... all of this media attention has translated into over a dozen emails from people who want to give feedback, encouragement, stories, and to buy painting(s) to support the Children's Wish Foundation!!! This is incredible! This week is so amazing. On the 4th I was so happy that we got to 7500... and now we're over 8700!! In five days!
Anyway... I should keep this relatively short, believe me I could ramble on for hours about how happy and excited, not to mention honoured, I am! I'll stop here.... Tonight's painting is another little bird on a 4x4 canvas. It's a lot like "Grumpy Gus" actually... I had fun painting him and he sold almost immediately so I thought I'd do up another, similar one.
So... here are the pictures and I promise to update the catalogue tomorrow to reflect all the recent sales and reserves. My apologies for my tardiness... but it's been a busy busy week!! :)
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| December 3 - Sweetness |
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| December 4 - Chunk |
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| December 5 - Field of Daisies |
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| December 6 - Nigel |
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| December 7 - Twisted Twilight |
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| December 8 - Snowbird |
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| December 9 - Baxter |
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| Awesome paper flowers made by Nikole |
Thursday, December 8, 2011
An Interesting Phone Call
So... today has been another mind-blowing day! Lots of page views which is wonderful... quite a few emails about buying paintings and supporting Children's Wish which is fantastic (and I promise to write back to everyone tomorrow)... and... a message on my home phone from Darrell Dexter's constituency office about a resolution being read tomorrow in Legislature about this project. WOW!! I did phone back but it was too late and everyone was likely gone for the day. I hope I get to attend... we'll have to see about timing. Tomorrow is still a school day!
The support and positive feedback has been overwhelming and just incredible! I don't think there are enough words to describe how I've been feeling. I want to thank everyone who has participated in this adventure. The momentum of the last few days has been growing... or so it seems to me! I feel like, just a month ago this project was still relatively unheard of. Now? Well... I had someone recognize me from the paper at school today which was a bit weird, and a little cool. As long as people hear about the Children's Wish Foundation and the whole painting a canvas a day for charity that's great. Me? Well, as I've said before, there's not really much of anything about me that's so special or different than anyone else. That's part of the beauty of this project. Really and truly anyone can do it. Anyone can start a project that is aimed at improving another person's life. I hope that maybe, just maybe, somewhere out there someone is thinking, hey, I can do that... maybe I'll do something in 2012 to support a cause I believe in. Wouldn't that be great?
Now... on to tonight and the painting... I'm up quite late tonight because I was studying for tomorrow's final exam (ooo, scary sounding word 'exam') and then I decided that even though it was after ten, hang it all, I was going to paint! I could, in theory, have left it for tomorrow and caught up, but I think Chris and I are going on a date night/Christmas present shopping trip for the kids. So... the chances of me doing two tomorrow are actually a little slim. So... I painted a kid-friendly little bird. It would seem from a lot of the emails I've been getting that the little cartoony animals are quite popular! Tonight's 4x4 canvas is of a little purple bird out in the snow. I've given it the slightly unoriginal title of "Snowbird." Not to be confused with the Canadians who head South for the winter! I also started prepping tomorrow night's painting, also a 4x4 and also a little bird. Though this one is more like "Grumpy Gus".
My lovely husband is busily working on a website design for this project. He thinks he can come up with a better way to display the paintings and their relevant information... and maybe, just maybe a way to buy/donate online! I think he's got the first four months on there but is still working out the kinks. What a guy... he got up early this morning, delivered mail in the pouring rain and wind, took the bus home since he did overtime today and missed out on our carpool, and then went out to tutor math, then home to work on the website. He is so supportive... and believe me, this past year that has been a most appreciated quality!! So thanks Chris!! For everything. :)
And now... to bed I think. Almost midnight... up in about five hours to have what I'm sure will be a great day. Today's test went really well, and I feel pretty good about tomorrow's exam. So, what will be, will be! Good night everyone! See you tomorrow for the pictures of Week 49!!
The support and positive feedback has been overwhelming and just incredible! I don't think there are enough words to describe how I've been feeling. I want to thank everyone who has participated in this adventure. The momentum of the last few days has been growing... or so it seems to me! I feel like, just a month ago this project was still relatively unheard of. Now? Well... I had someone recognize me from the paper at school today which was a bit weird, and a little cool. As long as people hear about the Children's Wish Foundation and the whole painting a canvas a day for charity that's great. Me? Well, as I've said before, there's not really much of anything about me that's so special or different than anyone else. That's part of the beauty of this project. Really and truly anyone can do it. Anyone can start a project that is aimed at improving another person's life. I hope that maybe, just maybe, somewhere out there someone is thinking, hey, I can do that... maybe I'll do something in 2012 to support a cause I believe in. Wouldn't that be great?
Now... on to tonight and the painting... I'm up quite late tonight because I was studying for tomorrow's final exam (ooo, scary sounding word 'exam') and then I decided that even though it was after ten, hang it all, I was going to paint! I could, in theory, have left it for tomorrow and caught up, but I think Chris and I are going on a date night/Christmas present shopping trip for the kids. So... the chances of me doing two tomorrow are actually a little slim. So... I painted a kid-friendly little bird. It would seem from a lot of the emails I've been getting that the little cartoony animals are quite popular! Tonight's 4x4 canvas is of a little purple bird out in the snow. I've given it the slightly unoriginal title of "Snowbird." Not to be confused with the Canadians who head South for the winter! I also started prepping tomorrow night's painting, also a 4x4 and also a little bird. Though this one is more like "Grumpy Gus".
My lovely husband is busily working on a website design for this project. He thinks he can come up with a better way to display the paintings and their relevant information... and maybe, just maybe a way to buy/donate online! I think he's got the first four months on there but is still working out the kinks. What a guy... he got up early this morning, delivered mail in the pouring rain and wind, took the bus home since he did overtime today and missed out on our carpool, and then went out to tutor math, then home to work on the website. He is so supportive... and believe me, this past year that has been a most appreciated quality!! So thanks Chris!! For everything. :)
And now... to bed I think. Almost midnight... up in about five hours to have what I'm sure will be a great day. Today's test went really well, and I feel pretty good about tomorrow's exam. So, what will be, will be! Good night everyone! See you tomorrow for the pictures of Week 49!!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Front Page Picture!!
This has been the most awesome day!! I didn't know exactly when the article would appear in the Chronicle-Herald. In fact, I thought I might just have missed it. But no.... around lunch today, I was in the cafeteria buying a drink and one of the lovely ladies mentioned that they had seen my face on the front page of the paper. That was a bit of a shock as I knew it'd be in the Arts section, but that's not front page or anything. Lo and behold, there in the top left corner was a picture and a headline/caption. WOW! So, of course I bought a paper and went around with a huge silly grin on my face for the rest of the day. In fact, it's still pretty much plastered on! Then... imagine the extra boost of joy I felt when I logged onto blogspot here to see if we did crack 7800... only to find out it was at 8201!! As I write it's at an even 8300... so that takes it to over 600 page views just today! Hello to Turkey as well!
I even got some emails from people who had seen the article, and a few people are interested in seeing some of the paintings!! YAY! I can't tell you how excited I am that this is happening. For a little while it got a bit too easy to think that I'd be doing all of this for nothing... well, not nothing I suppose, I'd have 365 paintings to decorate my house... but now... well, with luck this will boost some interest and some sales and I'll get to hand over a bunch of wish-granting money to some very deserving kids!! Even though I am definitely not the Grinch, I think my heart grew a few extra sizes today with all the facebook sharing, blog views, comments, feedback and excitement for this project. Spread the Happy!!!
Anyway... it's getting later and later so I should probably discuss today's painting. It's called Twisted Twilight and it's a 5x7 board. Purple and green background and two twisty gnarled trees. I like it. I think in a black or black/white frame it'll look pretty sweet. I do like the boards framed... and I would happily frame them for people, but it is a matter of personal preference, and it adds to the cost of supplies. In case anyone is out there wondering about presentation of the paintings. Some are in frames, most are not. No real reason, it's just how it worked out!
So... here's to a fantastic amount of feedback and positive reaction! Thank you to everyone who took the time to look the blog up and send me an email today. It was wonderful to read the emails and I hope you all feel as good as I do for taking part in this project. Have a wonderful day tomorrow!! Good night. :)
I even got some emails from people who had seen the article, and a few people are interested in seeing some of the paintings!! YAY! I can't tell you how excited I am that this is happening. For a little while it got a bit too easy to think that I'd be doing all of this for nothing... well, not nothing I suppose, I'd have 365 paintings to decorate my house... but now... well, with luck this will boost some interest and some sales and I'll get to hand over a bunch of wish-granting money to some very deserving kids!! Even though I am definitely not the Grinch, I think my heart grew a few extra sizes today with all the facebook sharing, blog views, comments, feedback and excitement for this project. Spread the Happy!!!
Anyway... it's getting later and later so I should probably discuss today's painting. It's called Twisted Twilight and it's a 5x7 board. Purple and green background and two twisty gnarled trees. I like it. I think in a black or black/white frame it'll look pretty sweet. I do like the boards framed... and I would happily frame them for people, but it is a matter of personal preference, and it adds to the cost of supplies. In case anyone is out there wondering about presentation of the paintings. Some are in frames, most are not. No real reason, it's just how it worked out!
So... here's to a fantastic amount of feedback and positive reaction! Thank you to everyone who took the time to look the blog up and send me an email today. It was wonderful to read the emails and I hope you all feel as good as I do for taking part in this project. Have a wonderful day tomorrow!! Good night. :)
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Big Surprise!
When I opened the blog this evening (for the first time today) I was sitting there hoping to maybe just maybe crack 7500... since it was sort of close last night. Imagine my shock when it was well beyond my hopes! Over 140 page views today!! I wondered why... and then it became clearer that the big spike around 3pm was likely due to a re-airing of the CBC interview. I had no idea it was going on again. Thanks SO much to Olga Milosevich and the team at Information Morning for getting interested in the project and their amazing support! I had a lot of fun doing that interview too!
In other media news, I still don't know when, or if, the story in the Herald is going to run... but if it does I will definitely let everyone know. I think the youtube link still works as well... it's a good way to see and hear a bit more detail on the project and hopefully inspires others to come up with their own ways to support each other.
Today was a looooooong day. Or at least, it felt that way! It was evaluation day at school again. I was being a little ambitious and decided to try the last three skill sets I had. I wasn't sure I'd pass them all, but figured it didn't hurt to try, and it just might work out well. Plus, if I was unsuccessful I'd find out exactly what I needed to improve and I would still have next week. Lucky for me... I passed!!! :) So that's a huge stress relief! Then, after the regularly scheduled day, I went to the campus library to put the finishing touches on my specialties project. I didn't quite finish... my carefully laid plans of having Chris pick up the kids and have me bus home when I was done didn't quite mesh with his work schedule. So... I picked my daughter up (poor girl was the last one in her group still there) at 5pm, boogied across the bridge to pick my son up, then home way later than usual. I thought, ok, no problem... I can figure this out. I've done it before... I decided to save myself a headache and order pizza (the ordering is a rare treat) and then I'd actually have some time to play with my kids. I figured I had lots of veggies and some vegetable soup to supplement the pizza (topped with more veggies). Imagine my growing anxiety when instead of pushing supper back 20-30 minutes it started to stretch into an hour! Finally I called the place back and asked what was going on... turns out they got freakishly busy, the driver had a broken debit machine, and my order was still at the shop. Sigh. I did not flip out at them... though at that moment I sorely wanted to... but we managed to sort things out and I asked if there was any sort of "inconvenience discount"... didn't really expect anything, but again, never hurts to ask. They called me five minutes later to say the food was on its way and at no charge! That was even better than I had hoped! The poor delivery guy came to the door within minutes and he seemed like he was having a bad day himself. So, hopefully he cheered up a bit after leaving our place. :)
The kids were up late... but because of that, they managed to see their dad before bedtime! Chris put them both to bed so he could have some quality time. I totally enjoyed my time with them too. Usually if it's just me I end up stressed out and snappy trying to cook dinner, answer little boy questions, and fend off a hungry, crying baby who keeps sneaking off to the box of Cheerios. Well, at least the Cheerios part is cute... and my son is pretty great at amusing himself for long stretches of time. Just give the kid a book and he'll sit quietly reading for what seems like hours! Today, I got on the floor, read them each some stories, tossed some balls around, got out the tunnel and took some pics of the kids playing together. It was a good rest for the soul.
Then... I made cinnamon raisin granola bars (yum) and went off to paint. I think it turned out ok... it's a pug for a classmate. Not entirely sure I got the wrinkles quite right... but I think he's cute all the same. I love pugs!
Now... I'm going to bed. Must get to school early to finish my power point... only a slide or two to go...
Thanks to Everyone who came by today... the number jump was a big surprise and a really nice one!! Keep sharing and let's help some kids and spread the happy!! Good night!
In other media news, I still don't know when, or if, the story in the Herald is going to run... but if it does I will definitely let everyone know. I think the youtube link still works as well... it's a good way to see and hear a bit more detail on the project and hopefully inspires others to come up with their own ways to support each other.
Today was a looooooong day. Or at least, it felt that way! It was evaluation day at school again. I was being a little ambitious and decided to try the last three skill sets I had. I wasn't sure I'd pass them all, but figured it didn't hurt to try, and it just might work out well. Plus, if I was unsuccessful I'd find out exactly what I needed to improve and I would still have next week. Lucky for me... I passed!!! :) So that's a huge stress relief! Then, after the regularly scheduled day, I went to the campus library to put the finishing touches on my specialties project. I didn't quite finish... my carefully laid plans of having Chris pick up the kids and have me bus home when I was done didn't quite mesh with his work schedule. So... I picked my daughter up (poor girl was the last one in her group still there) at 5pm, boogied across the bridge to pick my son up, then home way later than usual. I thought, ok, no problem... I can figure this out. I've done it before... I decided to save myself a headache and order pizza (the ordering is a rare treat) and then I'd actually have some time to play with my kids. I figured I had lots of veggies and some vegetable soup to supplement the pizza (topped with more veggies). Imagine my growing anxiety when instead of pushing supper back 20-30 minutes it started to stretch into an hour! Finally I called the place back and asked what was going on... turns out they got freakishly busy, the driver had a broken debit machine, and my order was still at the shop. Sigh. I did not flip out at them... though at that moment I sorely wanted to... but we managed to sort things out and I asked if there was any sort of "inconvenience discount"... didn't really expect anything, but again, never hurts to ask. They called me five minutes later to say the food was on its way and at no charge! That was even better than I had hoped! The poor delivery guy came to the door within minutes and he seemed like he was having a bad day himself. So, hopefully he cheered up a bit after leaving our place. :)
The kids were up late... but because of that, they managed to see their dad before bedtime! Chris put them both to bed so he could have some quality time. I totally enjoyed my time with them too. Usually if it's just me I end up stressed out and snappy trying to cook dinner, answer little boy questions, and fend off a hungry, crying baby who keeps sneaking off to the box of Cheerios. Well, at least the Cheerios part is cute... and my son is pretty great at amusing himself for long stretches of time. Just give the kid a book and he'll sit quietly reading for what seems like hours! Today, I got on the floor, read them each some stories, tossed some balls around, got out the tunnel and took some pics of the kids playing together. It was a good rest for the soul.
Then... I made cinnamon raisin granola bars (yum) and went off to paint. I think it turned out ok... it's a pug for a classmate. Not entirely sure I got the wrinkles quite right... but I think he's cute all the same. I love pugs!
Now... I'm going to bed. Must get to school early to finish my power point... only a slide or two to go...
Thanks to Everyone who came by today... the number jump was a big surprise and a really nice one!! Keep sharing and let's help some kids and spread the happy!! Good night!
Monday, December 5, 2011
Eek!! Feeling the Pressure!
Ok... it's official... I am starting to feel like I'm slipping behind again. A friend just told me he thinks I'm holding it all together pretty well. I think he has no idea! However... it's not too late to hang on tight and giv'er. Maybe a little pressure is a good thing? We shall see...
I was planning on painting another dog tonight, but just didn't feel like I had enough time. I had to go out for some groceries and photo printing for Christmas cards, and by the time I got home it was after 9pm. Not so good for the painting or the homework! I did get some of both done... but my eyes are getting heavier and my fingers sloppier. Ugh.
Instead of a dog, I painted a greeny swirly pattern, augmented it with lighter green, then felt like making it more detailed so kept adding lines, and then finally, probably because I'm feeling a little anxious, I added some yellow and white and called it "Field of Daisies". I may have another painting with that name, I'm honestly not sure at this point! But it's a decidedly abstracted version of daisies. Not at all identifiable as a flower, but that's what it made me think of when I was done. So, there you go. My favourite flower makes yet another appearance! I guess I ought to mention it's on a 5x7 board! I almost always forget that detail...
And now, I'm typing and listening to my little guy coughing every twenty seconds or so... it's a bit depressing honestly. I know everyone says the first year of daycare is germy and hard... but I just want him to feel good for, oh, I don't know... a week? I count my lucky stars he's just getting colds and the occasional treatable infection... but still. There are lots of hugs and kisses at our house. I hope he gets some sleep...
Speaking of sleep... that's my subconscious telling me to get some too! BIG day tomorrow... oy. Have a lovely evening and see you tomorrow!
I was planning on painting another dog tonight, but just didn't feel like I had enough time. I had to go out for some groceries and photo printing for Christmas cards, and by the time I got home it was after 9pm. Not so good for the painting or the homework! I did get some of both done... but my eyes are getting heavier and my fingers sloppier. Ugh.
Instead of a dog, I painted a greeny swirly pattern, augmented it with lighter green, then felt like making it more detailed so kept adding lines, and then finally, probably because I'm feeling a little anxious, I added some yellow and white and called it "Field of Daisies". I may have another painting with that name, I'm honestly not sure at this point! But it's a decidedly abstracted version of daisies. Not at all identifiable as a flower, but that's what it made me think of when I was done. So, there you go. My favourite flower makes yet another appearance! I guess I ought to mention it's on a 5x7 board! I almost always forget that detail...
And now, I'm typing and listening to my little guy coughing every twenty seconds or so... it's a bit depressing honestly. I know everyone says the first year of daycare is germy and hard... but I just want him to feel good for, oh, I don't know... a week? I count my lucky stars he's just getting colds and the occasional treatable infection... but still. There are lots of hugs and kisses at our house. I hope he gets some sleep...
Speaking of sleep... that's my subconscious telling me to get some too! BIG day tomorrow... oy. Have a lovely evening and see you tomorrow!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Woo-Hoo! 7500!
I just LOVE it when the numbers spike way up in a few hours!! Thanks to everyone in all the corners of the world who popped by today. Hmm... corners on a globe? Who came up with that expression? Well, at any rate I think today there were viewers in Canada, the US, Russia, Germany, Sweden, and the Philippines. Very cool!
Tonight's painting was a challenge! I did a friend's dog as a gift for her parents. Just in case anyone related reads this I'll keep the details vague. I didn't do it cartoony... my usual style of choice... but instead attempted a somewhat realistic depiction. Well, with an pattern in the background, and it's only the dog's head... but you get the idea! It was a challenge because I kept trying to get the contouring and colours right without it looking very odd. Finally I got the shadows dark enough to provide contrast. Still not sure I got the pup's colouring quite right, but I gave it my best shot. Even tried to get the dentition (teeth) right. Otherwise it could be just any dog of a similar breed. Might as well try to make it look a bit like *that* dog. :)
Anyway, I will be showing her a picture of it tomorrow (paint has to dry thoroughly) so we'll see what she thinks.
In other news... my little boy is continuing to test the limits of our patience. He is back to smacking things when he's frustrated. Occasionally he tries to smack me. There will be none of that. I have a zero tolerance policy for hitting of any kind. There's just no need of it. So, we had some trying moments today... but we got through. He's such a wonderful kid... I can't stay upset with him for too long, but he's not getting me to cave in to him either. After all, he comes by his stubbornness honestly! My little girl might, and I do say Might, be getting her mandibular lateral incisors at looooong last. The girl turned 18 months old today (a year and a half already???) and she's only got four teeth across the top and two on the bottom! I try to comfort myself with the idea that if they're not in her mouth they're not getting plaque and bacteria on them. That thought goes only so far. She has been using her new word lately too... "no" Good times. Love them both to bits though... more than all the stars in the sky.
Well, to bed with me... it'll be a busy week this week. Hmm... and next week... so I guess sleep is a good thing. I think I'll be at school a bit later this week to work on homework. I tried to download the software I need for my assignments but it just wouldn't work for me. At least I know they have it on the school computers. Wish me luck this week... I'll do my best to stay on top of everything. :) Good night!!
Tonight's painting was a challenge! I did a friend's dog as a gift for her parents. Just in case anyone related reads this I'll keep the details vague. I didn't do it cartoony... my usual style of choice... but instead attempted a somewhat realistic depiction. Well, with an pattern in the background, and it's only the dog's head... but you get the idea! It was a challenge because I kept trying to get the contouring and colours right without it looking very odd. Finally I got the shadows dark enough to provide contrast. Still not sure I got the pup's colouring quite right, but I gave it my best shot. Even tried to get the dentition (teeth) right. Otherwise it could be just any dog of a similar breed. Might as well try to make it look a bit like *that* dog. :)
Anyway, I will be showing her a picture of it tomorrow (paint has to dry thoroughly) so we'll see what she thinks.
In other news... my little boy is continuing to test the limits of our patience. He is back to smacking things when he's frustrated. Occasionally he tries to smack me. There will be none of that. I have a zero tolerance policy for hitting of any kind. There's just no need of it. So, we had some trying moments today... but we got through. He's such a wonderful kid... I can't stay upset with him for too long, but he's not getting me to cave in to him either. After all, he comes by his stubbornness honestly! My little girl might, and I do say Might, be getting her mandibular lateral incisors at looooong last. The girl turned 18 months old today (a year and a half already???) and she's only got four teeth across the top and two on the bottom! I try to comfort myself with the idea that if they're not in her mouth they're not getting plaque and bacteria on them. That thought goes only so far. She has been using her new word lately too... "no" Good times. Love them both to bits though... more than all the stars in the sky.
Well, to bed with me... it'll be a busy week this week. Hmm... and next week... so I guess sleep is a good thing. I think I'll be at school a bit later this week to work on homework. I tried to download the software I need for my assignments but it just wouldn't work for me. At least I know they have it on the school computers. Wish me luck this week... I'll do my best to stay on top of everything. :) Good night!!
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Successful Saturday!
Not only did I manage to get some Christmas shopping done with my little girl this morning, but I got a visit in with my friends Nikki & Peter and their adorable little guy, and... two paintings! Woo-hoo!
In case you're wondering why I would paint two canvasses in one day instead of the 'advertised' one, it's because I know that the end of term is coming fast and I'm quite sure there will be nights I have to study and not paint. Plus, we're off to Saskatchewan for a time during the Christmas break. Thanks to our diligent neighbours who will be watching out for our house and kitty. They're awesome! I love our street... everyone looks out for everyone else.
Anyway, the two paintings are somewhat similar, with a twist. The one for tonight is called "Sweetness" because I think it reminds me of wistfulness and romance... if that is possible with trees. It's kind of like the tree series I have going... but with purples and greens. Some pink and white work their way in there as well. Then, because I had extra paint I started a second. Waste not, and all that... those trees are more like "Branch Out" but with purples, blues, and green/yellows. I don't know why the pairs of trees appeals to me so much, but I just love them. I'm a big fan of symmetry and palindromes and for whatever reason the trees together make me happy.
So, at the end of a longish, but successful Saturday I'm going to sleep. Maybe I'll get the remainder of my shopping done tomorrow... maybe not... but I'm starting to feel the crunch. I had plans to make some stuff as gifts but I might run out of time!! I suppose if all else fails my family will be receiving paintings for Christmas (and yes I do pay for them). :) Good night... hope you are all having a good weekend! See you tomorrow...
In case you're wondering why I would paint two canvasses in one day instead of the 'advertised' one, it's because I know that the end of term is coming fast and I'm quite sure there will be nights I have to study and not paint. Plus, we're off to Saskatchewan for a time during the Christmas break. Thanks to our diligent neighbours who will be watching out for our house and kitty. They're awesome! I love our street... everyone looks out for everyone else.
Anyway, the two paintings are somewhat similar, with a twist. The one for tonight is called "Sweetness" because I think it reminds me of wistfulness and romance... if that is possible with trees. It's kind of like the tree series I have going... but with purples and greens. Some pink and white work their way in there as well. Then, because I had extra paint I started a second. Waste not, and all that... those trees are more like "Branch Out" but with purples, blues, and green/yellows. I don't know why the pairs of trees appeals to me so much, but I just love them. I'm a big fan of symmetry and palindromes and for whatever reason the trees together make me happy.
So, at the end of a longish, but successful Saturday I'm going to sleep. Maybe I'll get the remainder of my shopping done tomorrow... maybe not... but I'm starting to feel the crunch. I had plans to make some stuff as gifts but I might run out of time!! I suppose if all else fails my family will be receiving paintings for Christmas (and yes I do pay for them). :) Good night... hope you are all having a good weekend! See you tomorrow...
Friday, December 2, 2011
Week 48!! Picture Time!
Today was a pretty good day. I did my oral presentation on this project and I think it was pretty well received. I did get lots of requests and suggestions for paintings so that's fantastic. After 11 months of painting I'm running a little low on creativity! I'll admit, I do like sharing this project with people because I'm proud of it. I think it's a good way to volunteer on your own terms... especially since I used to be a volunteer doula and had to pause that with the two small kids. It's pretty hard to drop everything to attend a birth when you have two little people who need to be looked after! I do hope that I can get back into it after I'm working... if the boss is down with it. :)
Otherwise, I took my son out to the Bulk Barn to do a little ingredient shopping. One of the presentations today was about home made granola bars. They were fantastic and looked fairly easy to do. So I copied down the recipe (with permission) and decided to make some. I was hoping to go Christmas shopping, but I'll do that tomorrow instead. :) So, my son and I went for a little outing together. I really like getting a chance to have mom & son time. Don't get me wrong, I love all forms of quality time with any and all divisions of my family, but he and I get a bit less time than we used to. It was just the two of us for so long... Anyway, the boy impresses me to no end with all his reading in that store. I swear he likes to just read the signs over every food bin. Very cute! When we got home he calmly and seriously informed his Dad about what we bought. Sultana raisins Daddy... (instead of Thompson, which he smelled and pronounced them "Ick") I made the bars with dried cranberries (Chris doesn't like raisins) and chocolate chips. Thanks to Ashley for the recipe... I will be making them often!! MMM-mmm!
Hmm... on to tonight's painting... I did a 4x4 canvas and called it "Hypnosis". Sometimes I think I need a dose of hypnosis myself to get through everything that needs to get done! Maybe I could hypnotize myself? Who knows... at any rate... this is a painting that oddly enough was inspired by an Avon catalogue (I think?) that was hanging around the house. There was a neat scarf in there with swirly patterns. So, I sort of started from there and used colours that I like, and when I was all done I was turning it around in my hand and at one point I thought it almost looked like a Picasso-inspired face. So from there I was thinking of angry hypnotized people. I called it "Hypnosis" so it could be left open to interpretation...
One of the questions I got from my presentation today was if the paintings had stories behind them. I think I said yes, mostly, and I guess that's true. I figure there has to be a reason for painting something... whatever it may be!
Anyway, I should get on to posting the pics so I can go to bed. It's nearing midnight in my neck of the world. Oh, the page views are up over 7400 so YAY!! I can just feel the happy spreading around. It makes me smile! So, keep it coming, share with your friends, I'm hoping we can hit 10,000 by the end of the month. What do you think? Doable?? Only with your help! So here is week 48... Enjoy!
Otherwise, I took my son out to the Bulk Barn to do a little ingredient shopping. One of the presentations today was about home made granola bars. They were fantastic and looked fairly easy to do. So I copied down the recipe (with permission) and decided to make some. I was hoping to go Christmas shopping, but I'll do that tomorrow instead. :) So, my son and I went for a little outing together. I really like getting a chance to have mom & son time. Don't get me wrong, I love all forms of quality time with any and all divisions of my family, but he and I get a bit less time than we used to. It was just the two of us for so long... Anyway, the boy impresses me to no end with all his reading in that store. I swear he likes to just read the signs over every food bin. Very cute! When we got home he calmly and seriously informed his Dad about what we bought. Sultana raisins Daddy... (instead of Thompson, which he smelled and pronounced them "Ick") I made the bars with dried cranberries (Chris doesn't like raisins) and chocolate chips. Thanks to Ashley for the recipe... I will be making them often!! MMM-mmm!
Hmm... on to tonight's painting... I did a 4x4 canvas and called it "Hypnosis". Sometimes I think I need a dose of hypnosis myself to get through everything that needs to get done! Maybe I could hypnotize myself? Who knows... at any rate... this is a painting that oddly enough was inspired by an Avon catalogue (I think?) that was hanging around the house. There was a neat scarf in there with swirly patterns. So, I sort of started from there and used colours that I like, and when I was all done I was turning it around in my hand and at one point I thought it almost looked like a Picasso-inspired face. So from there I was thinking of angry hypnotized people. I called it "Hypnosis" so it could be left open to interpretation...
One of the questions I got from my presentation today was if the paintings had stories behind them. I think I said yes, mostly, and I guess that's true. I figure there has to be a reason for painting something... whatever it may be!
Anyway, I should get on to posting the pics so I can go to bed. It's nearing midnight in my neck of the world. Oh, the page views are up over 7400 so YAY!! I can just feel the happy spreading around. It makes me smile! So, keep it coming, share with your friends, I'm hoping we can hit 10,000 by the end of the month. What do you think? Doable?? Only with your help! So here is week 48... Enjoy!
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| November 26 - Winter White |
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| November 27 - Birdseed |
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| November 28 - Purple Wave |
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| November 29 - Happy Place |
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| November 30 - Windows |
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| December 1 - Daisy Deco |
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| December 2 - Hypnosis |
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