Ups and Downs

 Lauren's sweet baby

has been in the hospital since she was born on March 5th. Tallulah Grace has had two surgeries. Hopefully this week and next will bring good news as she recovers.

To help with stress I have been painting, changing decor, and enjoying spring blooms. Sharing a few random pictures...

 

My faith has been put to the test since Lauren's pregnancy and Tallulah's diagnosis.  There have been tears of sadness and tears of joy. God has control of each day, and I'm learning to put all my trust in Him.

Flowers

 A few blooms have made their appearance.

Planters near the front doors have blooms, too, thanks to Lowes.

And then I've been painting flowers.

Messy enjoyment!

I like these soft colors. One flower got the baking soda/paint technique.

Enjoyment

 Painting is a major source of enjoyment.

Browsing aisles in an antique store is another source of enjoyment.

I really liked this Heidi Ott doll. I googled this dollmaker's name to learn more about the Switzerland artist and her creations.

1956 Rexall Award

Here I am enjoying a day of antiquing.
 

I also looked up this artist whose work is most interesting. 

Red barn with wire across the bottom drew my attention.

Unusual clothes hooks

Pretty dishes chosen by a dear friend long ago

Hey, someone had a booth with my name!

Gardening is another enjoyment which I'll share another time. 

Waiting on some special blooms...

I Am Behind

 April is dancing by, and I haven't even greeted this new month. Yesterday I noticed magnificent blooms...not in my yard but in other people's yards. Wow, spring is such a colorful season of new growth and hope!

I saw this large painting in a gift shop, so I tried a mini version. The original was so cool-looking. Mine was a disappointment.

Prayers continue for Tallulah Grace who is still in the hospital.

She's a little sweetheart! She is being transferred to a children's hospital for an examination by an ENT. Hopefully her swallowing and feeding issues will not be major problems.