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!

Wabisabi

The Denver Art Student's League hosted a free book making class on Saturday given by Gail Watson.  In my dreams I have the training, skill, equipment, opportunity and vision that she has!  Well, that could be said for so many of the artists that I admire.  There was a book on display that I fell in love with and didn't want to forget how it was constructed.  It was made out of balsa wood.  Lacking balsa wood, I made this sweet little book yesterday out of mat board I had on hand.  It's small, so I believe I can actually fill this one with art and complete something:

  

Pauline

I'm taking an amazing online cold wax class from Judy Wise, the best teacher ever.  If you have any desire to learn, techniques in encaustic, cold wax, plaster or mixed media journaling, her online classes get 5 stars every time.  This is my first endeavor in oil!  I am pinching myself and can't wait to start the next board!

Cold Wax Class 1st layer

So lucky to have found Judy Wise ♥  This is my 3rd online art class with her and always learn tons. Cold wax is all about layering and texture - abstract fun.  I have 2 batches of panels going.  The first batch is starting out with warm hues.  Here is the first layer:

The second batch is starting out with cool hues:

Saying Goodbye to a Faithful Friend

This little white truck got all 3 of my children through high school driving. It moved them and their stuff to various new dwellings over the past 23 years. When one of our cars has broken down, it has not only towed them to safety, but filled in as transportation backup. Has gotten me to work during many a snow storm. It's been my garage sale and Home Depot buddy. Today I sold our little friend to a mechanic who loves to tinker and will give it the retirement it deserves. In deep appreciation for all it's year's of faithful service.