My Place of Escape

 It's only a few steps away from the main house, but it takes me to a place of peace, a creative environment, my own getaway.

 To my most recent angel I added a light dusting of fine white glitter to the upper part of the wings. You would have to see it in person to notice the glitter. 

I have filled three art notebooks and am working on a fourth. Once in a while I am pleased with a page.

And I have this notebook to keep memories of art pieces and the persons who liked them.

The idea for this picture came from another artist. I painted over my first attempt. My husband couldn't believe I had done that since he had really liked it. So I painted the girl again and decided to leave it.

Last Day of the Month Thoughts

 Computer woes have made posting difficult. I wonder if it is because so many are using the internet now. Where did January go? 

I haven't killed this pretty orchid yet.

Grandson Lucas gave my artist figures some new poses.

 While cleaning out my writing desk I came across these two feathers I had saved. 

Enjoying the Christmas gift from Olga and the boys. Many times I sit here in my chair with a book or iPad.

Green is my go to color.

One new painting titled "Louisiana Memories"

Weekend Pastimes

 Using old decorations 

Relaxing by painting small panel boards

Have a great week!

Hard To Imagine

 I can't imagine how horrible it must be to see whole towns wiped out by fires and to lose everything. Plus the terrible tragedy of losing family members. Will the turmoil of 2020 ever stop?

I'm going to shift gears and share little bits of daily joy.

These two succulents on the front porch are thriving much to my amazement.

I was unable to leave this statue behind at Goodwill. It was a lovely find for four dollars. Although made of light material and not old, it still spoke to me. I noticed the folds of her garment, her hands, the tender embrace and expression.

Did some painting on familiar themes of little houses and country churches.

Starting to pull out autumn decor...love the colors in these pumpkins. They were made last year by a sweet friend.

Strange Times and Random Notes

Our church reopened, and it was different due to taped off sections on the pews, masks worn by those in attendance, and no handshakes or hugs. But the hymns, Bible readings, and sermon message were good for the soul.


Spending quiet times t0 paint 

Art Journal Page

Thin Art Panel

Appreciating collected pieces that I've had for years

Butter pats and baskets were probably my first collections.

Appreciating nature

The bird seed I put out gets eaten sometimes by hungry squirrels. Recently I added some fake animals to the rolling cart - snail, rabbit, and squirrel.

Enjoying simple home decor

 This concrete planter holds a lot of loose photos.

 This little art piece was bought in a shop in Texas. 

Have a safe and peaceful week.

Day by Day

Recently I was at Lucy Flea Market with a friend and saw two paintings. She encouraged me to buy and paint over them. On that day I was hesitant. But on another day I went back for them. I wish I had taken pictures of those paintings, but before I lost my nerve I used gesso to cover the fruits and vases. 

One reason I wanted these was for the vintage canvas of one and the Fredrix archival canvas and sturdy frame of the other. Now what to paint? I came across a picture I had saved on Pinterest and used it for inspiration.

If I can't live in an old two-story country home, I can paint one.

Wilted roses are still very pretty.

These are left over from Mother's Day.

Hope this week will be a good one without turmoil.

Prayers are needed for understanding, renewal, and peace.

Calm

As each day brings more distressing news about the coronavirus, I pray for calm and cautious behavior for myself and others, for those trying to solve this deadly outbreak, for nurses and doctors working tirelessly to ease the suffering, and for world leaders to make wise decisions during this crisis.

This book came into my hands at the right time. It reminded me of another time when people endured hardships and survived.

Adding pages to my art journal helps me pass time in a pleasant way.

My husband would rather I use a dusting rag than a paintbrush. 

I do have time for household cleaning and decluttering, but just haven't been in the mood.

Thinking of you, our country, and world.

Endings

A large canvas 

When I paint, it is sometimes hard to know when to stop. 

This one I am letting rest for a while.

I think I like it as is.

A book

 Boy, oh boy, could I relate!

The breakup of a marriage is a devastating experience.

I know firsthand many of the thoughts and feelings

 of the woman in this memoir. 

P.S. If there is anyone who might need encouragement to get through the pain and sorrow of divorce, I found this book to be helpful.

Also this verse from the Bible helped me through a very emotional and  rough time. 

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart.
                                                                                                                        Psalm 27:14

That verse continues to help me when I'm discouraged.