Joyful Purpose

A Glimpse

There is a book called Blink that shows that you can learn more about a person by spending 20 mins in their room than you would knowing them for years.  For me I think that is true.  I love looking into someone's home - it tells such an amazing story.  So here are 12 random shots from mine.  What do you think they say? I am not going to tag anyone (because then you feel like you have to do it)  all I am going to say is that you are invited to do the same - leave a comment and your link so we can take a glimpse at you ...

Back to School

Well it was back to school for my boys today. So it has been a bit crazy around here getting back into the groove of things.  I decided to hang some Tibetan prayer flags in their room - figured they could use some prayers with all the transitions.  They have closet doors that are painted with chalk board paint so I used chalk markers to write out some helpful reminders ;) to keep them and me on track.

First day back Grayson 4th and Payton 1st

Color My World

Procion cold water dyes make fabulously rich, velvet like papers - a technique I learned from LK in her workshop.  So of course I ordered some and can't wait to mix them up and use them.  Basically you mix a couple of tablespoons into a canning jar of water - screw on lids keep dye for future use - and coat and puddle onto Rives print making paper and then let dry - and then you will get this ....

Sprinkle with Kosher salt and you get this ....

Love em', Love em' Love em'

Lucky Number 7

Payton 7yrs Old

 
My baby boy is 7 years old today.  How did that happen?  I have two beautiful boys - Grayson 10 and Payton 7 -  two miracles.  It took me 7 years of infertility treatments, operations, and shots to have Grayson.  We felt so blessed thinking that we would never have any children - Grayson we asked for.  Payton was sent.  3 years after having Grayson another miracle - this time a SURPRISE!  No shots, do drugs, no nothin' - Payton decided he was coming and that is his personality too - he is strong, determined, headstrong, and can't be stopped.  Qualities that will serve him well in life.  So Happy Birthday my darling boy - my loved one I am so glad you decided to come.

I am blessed with great friends

This weekend I took a workshop with my dear, dear friend LK Ludwig - the workshop was incredible - being an educator I can tell you that there are great artists and then there are great artists who are also great teachers - you know what I mean - they model, they facilitate your growth, they push you, they nurture you, they encourage your own unique voice, they are generous of heart and spirit without ego or pride - LK is one of these. 

And not only was it a great workshop but it was at my friend Carol's where I got to stay for the entire weekend!  Yup, I even spent Fri and Sat night in that fabulously, warm, comforting, inspiring, loving nest of hers.  Carol has one of the biggest hearts and spirits I know and I am so blessed to have her in my life.

and if it couldn't get any better my darling Judi took the workshop with me and was my seat mate .... not to mention that her talented husband Steve (who cooks like no other) made homemade salsa and guacamole for us on Sunday.

to complete this love fest where some great gals -Darci, Carol, Yvonne, Lindy, and Minnie.

I am filled up!

Love Bug

Here are pics of Bentley after his bath tonight - the boys decided to get in the tub and bathe him - he sits there quietly - not making a peep - just the same as he is being blown dry and brushed - now he is tuckered out.  He is such a sweet sweet pup - we all love him so - if you are looking for a great dog - go to Ludwig's Min. Schnauzer's where I got him.

Chinatown Trip with Friends

Yesterday, I went on a little trip to Chinatown with good friends - Carol, her daughter Amanda, Lindey and LK .

First there was Dim Sum at Empress Pavilion

Then a foot massage for LK and I

Then Joss paper shopping

and of course a stop at Phoenix Bakery for the best cake in the world!

 

then back to Carol's for cake and tea. 

My husband says when he comes back in another life he wants to be me ...

hmmm ... he might be right (grin)

I have a truly blessed life.

Jesse Reno - a true and tender spirit

I was one of Jesse Reno's helpers yesterday for his class at my friend Carol Park's Studio and what a magical time it was.  Jesse is such a soulful and generous spirit.  We gathered on comfy chairs in the warm space of Carol's living room to watch Jesse paint, describe his techniques and answer questions for over 3 hours and then artist's went to work on their own.  Jesse is an honest and humble artist who puts up no walls but opens himself up to connect with others.  That's what I call a true artist - one who gives of themselves freely and willingly without worrying if they are giving to much away.  One who shares their gifts with others knowing that in that unselfish act only strength and joy will be returned to their own work.  Jesse is one of those individuals.  There is no big ego here - just a kind and giving soul.  I feel very honored to have met him and watch him paint and share.  I also purchased on of his pieces for my husband for our upcoming anniversary which I will share later. 

On another note - Carol Park's Studio ....

I know she is a dear friend but honestly there are NOT many better places to take a class - this intimate and warm environment is so nurturing and healing.  Artist feel valued and welcomed in her home - which in itself is a work of art.  She has an incredible line up for the rest of this year and the next.  Make sure you check out her site and get on her mailing list - she has everyone you ever wished to take coming to her studio to teach.  This Fri, Sat, and Sun I get to go back and take a great class for me dear dear friend LK Ludwig - can't wait - more to come ....

Give Away Winner and Jesse Reno

Give Away Winner for the Tea Cozy is Kelly Kilmer!  Kelly email me your mailing info to [email protected]

I am going to my friend Carol's today to help out with the Jesse Reno workshop.  I can't wait to watch how he paints.  Plus I will be in the company of good friends - LK will be there and Carol of course - who could ask for anything more - great art, good friends, and a warm and inspiring studio.

Give Away!

I am in love with the ice tea cozy - I know I am a little bit freaky what can I say - but they just work great!  So I have decided to have a little giveaway!

When I go into bed and settle in for the night (dang I sound like a granny!) I bring a glass of ice tea and lemonade with lots of ice with me.

Leave a comment and let me know what your evening ritual is for a chance to win a set of ice tea cozies made by me.