A Busy, Busy Journal Entry

A flurry of life has been fluttering in around me . . . yes, blessings all, but, none-the-less chewing off big hunks of my time. So, although my blog and you, my dear followers, may appear forgotten, you are not. Nearly, daily, I think of things I want to share. But the process of doing, painting, photo-ing, getting to the computer (hurrah, I'm now adept at using the laptop, and no longer have to wait for my hubby to be off the computer!!) loading and fixing images and sitting down to talk with you all. WELL, I'm here, yippieeeeeeeeeee, and I've got a bursting-full-Journal page to share with you.

Way back from August 8th, I'd started and slowly finished the sketch, begun while I participated in the Shady Cove Riverwalk Art Show. It was a lovely weekend with lots of people. My site was just across from the soothing Rogue River. Although I had a fellow artist between me and the river, I "erased" his curtains and filled in the river reflections for you to enjoy. That's the image in the upper left of the journal page.

Next, I wanted to fill the window I'd saved for Shakira. When one of my other "Women's Mexico Retreat" participants arrived in the area for her month long "Artist's Sabbatical", she brought her beautiful dog, Shakira. This dog has the most gorgeous eyes, almost like she'd heavily applied maskara and eyeshadow, as well as eye liner. She was just the most sweet, pleasant animal to have around and even Cody, our fickel Golden Retreiver, found Shakira to his liking too. In fact, Roland spent several days enjoying two pups company while Lena and I played (thank you, Dear Roland!) I had to paint her portrait. She began like this . . . and with more hours, she completed like this . . .

The final image I wanted to remember and capture was actually a triple portrait. Yes, a big assignment, but I'm jumping into challanges seems these days! So here I go - - feet first. Bonnie, the other of the Mexico Retreat participants AND now, my studio-mate too, was having a gallery grand-opening. So Lena, the "mother of Shakira" and I planned to surprise Bonnie at her gallery event. Lena slid in smoothly, only to totally surprise Bonnie and a sweet reunion ensued.

The trio here is Bonnie, Lena (center) and me. I could nit-pick, "shadows in Lena's face need softening, the left side of my jaw needs softened and brought in" and on and on but, it's done! You understand :)

So for now, I'm anticipating being more available for the blog updates . . . and I'll aim at more frequent posts. I'm just loving your feedback and, believe me, not matter if you have a comment full of opinions and suggestions - or - if you just want to zip me off a note to say "hi" and let me know you are reading my posts, I treasure every comment.

Now, go off and revel in the amazement of our lives and - oh -be sure to be grateful for our blessings. That way, they are guarantee to multiply. Til later . . .