Memorial Day 2009

As this Memorial Day 2009 comes to a glorious end, we will remember not only that it did not rain, but that we had peace because of what our military forces have worked hard to achieve. We thank them most hardily and thank those who serve us even now.

To those who have gone on before us, we remember with our hearts thankful , the memories we have to hold. We will someday join them at the sunset of our own lives and thank them once again. While we still have this moment to live, may we do it to the best of our ability. Time is our gift and this is why we call it the "present". Live your life to give and you will live with no regrets. Then you too, will hear those words: "Well done".

Today brought a time to remember loved ones that gave to us in order that we would have a brighter, better future. My hope is that we remember not to give up hope when life gets hard. Do not give up on your hopes and dreams.

The next few months will be a time to work on a part of the art learning that I have avoided in the past. When I first began a formal training in the art field, I made only one line study self portrait drawing and put it away quickly. It felt very self indulgent and frivolous. I have learned that it is just another integral part of the painting process and I will again begin to delve into this part of my studies. I love to paint portraits and hopefully will get to work in sculpting heads in the future. It is only a logical part of the learning process to use my head, so to speak, for studies. I will keep you informed of the process. It is my dream to be an artist.

What are your dreams? What do you want to achieve? Begin, continue and/or complete your dream this year! There is no time like the present!

Mother's Day Miracle

Mother's Day was not a day that I would have planned, but it turned out wonderful. The weekend was filled with not very good surprises and news. Family members were tackling difficult times and most plans for fun this last weekend were put on hold. It is always good to have plans that can be adjusted and flexible for situations that are out of the ordinary. This was just that type of time.

When the Sunday afternoon unfolded I had my family near and that is all that mattered. The meal was postponed for an hour later and was prepared and ready to serve right when the guests arrived. One son was on the couch resting while everyone else was gathered around the dining table. It was my "Mother's Day Miracle". Oh, and yes, it did not rain until after the luncheon meal. What more could a mother ask for?

Now that the weekend has come and gone, I sit and reflect about how things played out and wonder about how I even managed to get through. Someone said that it was amazing to see the peace on me in spite of the circumstance. My answer was that it was from a power that was not my own. That power is what generates my inspiration for painting, writing, or just plain living. My life is just like a lamp that cannot be used without the cord plugged into the outlet. I do not use music, meditation, or some outside the body experience for my life and work. My inspiration comes from a source of words spoken and living that have no end. It is the secret to life.

To all the Moms in the world: Thanks for being there!

This could be the location of your outdoor "plein aire" painting this summer in the Pacific Northwest! Fresh air, sunshine and birds singing are just a few of the pleasures enjoyed by outdoor painting enthusiasts. Don't forget the bug spray and suntan lotion when going out on location. A small container of distilled water for painting in watercolor is what I use when on location. Some have used the local water sources available, but deposits from minerals or live critters (smaller than can be seen by the human eye) can leave acidic deposits on the surface of your paper and ruin an otherwise marvelous experience.

Whatever you pack in on your day outing, make sure you leave it better than when you showed up to paint. No one will ever complain about the artist who takes care of the environment! Early morning starts can also surprise you with some unexpected wildlife, so be cautious not to disturb or get too close. Remember to bring a camera to capture the lighting for future studies from the outing.

You can make a view finder by cutting out old mat board the shape of the paper you will be painting. Hold it out a arms length and look through the "magic" window to discover all the possibilities of layouts. Look for large shapes that will dominate the design. You can add the details later or paint small studies of textures that will compliment the finished work. Remember to note if the piece will be dominate warm or cool. Work quickly once you have decided on the composition. My motto for art: "Look long and produce a little" Have fun!