Woman in the Window

I've been in such a fog!  More of an introspective, internal journey than focused on art.  Time to shake off the cobwebs and get back to work.  My goodness, I have become rusty.  This piece came out OK, but far from what I wish I was capable of.  Need lots of help with painting hair.  And of course I always wish I was a loose painter and not so tight.  But, it's a start...........

Felting

A friend from work gave me her supply of wool roving.  I've been meaning to try art felting for some time, but didn't have the inspiration or know where to start.  That is until I saw a wonderful felting blog by Jackie in the UK  What an inspiration dogdaisychains is!  And what a gift the internet is to inspiring art from all over the world!  My first piece is a baby step to what she does, but I am very pleased with it:

Brioche Scarf

I can't believe how long it's been since I've paid attention to my blog.  I've been in a knitting and sewing frenzy preparing for Christmas gifting.  I did very little shopping this year.  If I didn't have anything made, then I gave cash.  The only picture I want to post about knitting is the new technique I learned call Brioche, which allows you to knit in 2 colors, creating stripes.  Here is one of my favorite scarves. It's very long as I couldn't seem to stop!

DIY - Entrance Stairs

The carpet really needs to be replaced.  A peek under there is enough to make your hair curl.  It's quite disgusting what accumulates under the carpet.  I couldn't stand the stairs anymore, and once the first rip sounded, the DIY began.  The stairs are not as bouncy anymore, but at least they are clean!  I'm itching to rip out the living room, but not quite ready to take that project on.......... yet..........

Paul was elected the MSS Vice Speaker at the AMA Conference in Chicago last weekend. Shamefully I have lost track of his many accomplishments over the past few years and resolve to start writing them down!  He continues to astound me with his drive and passion for leadership, community service, and in so many other facets of his life.  Celebrating you today, Paul!

Alison in Thailand

I guess she is going to be staying for awhile.  First it was a trip to see her dad and explore with her friend Lisa.

Then with the help of dear friends, she found an amazingly perfect apartment and a Thai language course.

She spends a whole lot of time eating..................her favorite thing!  This is my sweet friend and her angel mom in Thailand.

Now she has a job teaching English at a private Catholic school.  I don't have a picture of that yet, but can't wait to see more of this amazing adventure as it unfolds!  

Chloe Garden Portrait

Can't believe how long it's been since I posted anything.  Must have needed a break.  Most of the last 4 months have gone to cleaning out clutter, having a garage sale and working in the yard.  I am into container gardening as an alternative to fighting with tree roots and grass.  DIY home  improvement projects have me in their grip!  Everywhere I look there are projects that come to mind.  Maybe it's a self-defense coping method to living alone.  One thing I do well is knowing how to stay busy.  Here is a portrait of Chloe by our new fence and a bit of the garden.  Pretty Girl!