10 Things I learned last year....

A Far Brighter Light    2010

All of the sudden I realized that it's February.  Where in the heck did January go?  For that matter, where did last year go?  Time: she is a waistin'.  I've decided that with my horrible memory, I really need to start paying attention and writing things down that I need to remember.  Rather, I need to start blogging things down- so I can't loose it.
 (or can I?)

So - back to last year.  A list of 10 things that I know to be true:

1. Nothing is permanent.
 (I feel so strongly about these words of wisdom from the Buddha that I  made it my personal mantra - and - had it tattooed on my flesh so I can read it every day....yes, I realize the irony.)


2. When the Shit Hits the Fan....turn the fan OFF.  
(Then "dust" yourself off and keep going.  You can turn the fan on again after things calm down.)


3. When things get tough, lean on those who can hold you up. 
 (Thank goodness for good friends and family - this is what they're there for.)


4. If you think it can't get worse....just wait.  
( - and thank your lucky stars when things are going your way.)


5. I have the most awesome kids in the world.  
(Confirmed to be true, once again in 2010.  It's not bragging if it's true.) 


6. I DO have a favorite color.... and it's pyrolle orange. 
 (or...maybe it's cobalt teal....either way - I love you Golden Artist's Colors - and you ARE worth the money.)


7. Short cuts aren't worth it. 
 (why am I in such a hurry anyway?)


8. If it's not working - make a change.  
('cause change is good, um-kay?)


9. The things that I do - MATTER.  
(one way- or another, they matter....maybe not in a "change the world" sort of way - but in a small, "butterfly effect" way.)


10. Time is something that we are not guaranteed. 
 (I need to make the most of mine.)
                                   -  Bring it on, 2011!  I'm always ready to learn more.

nothing is permanent

ripple effect   48x36   diptych   2010

On Saturday, July 10th, the world lost one of the most special people ever created .....
Harrison James Greenberg   (1990-2010)
you are so loved and you will be missed.
It's so unfair that you had to go so young.


You were the best, Harry.
...and for the rest of us left behind:

there are moments in life that make you,

and moments in life that break you.

there are moments in life that influence you,

and moments in life that change you.

there are moments in life that challenge you

and there are moments in life that inspire you.

there are moments in life that crush you

and there are moments in life that destroy you.

there are moments in life of total peace

and there are moments in life of total chaos.

nothing is permanent, everything is temporary.

Driven to Distraction

The new "baby" - Angus T-Bone May 2009

Here is the brand new addition to the family. Casey's Angus T-Bone came to South Carolina last weekend and immediately turned the entire household upside down. We've all had to make some adjustments. My kids are big and help with "the baby" a lot...but they're busy and have sports and he is just like having a REAL baby in the house....naps, feedings, poop time, play time....What were we thinking? The household was on auto pilot! It was smooth and easy. We didn't have to introduce a new family member. But we missed our other bulldog SO much! And, of course....there is nothing cuter than a puppy! And yes, I am in love! And yes, he is a rolly-polly sweetie pie. So now, once again, I am trying to find the balance between doing the things I love (painting) and loving (and caring for) those around me. T-Bone likes to hang out in the studio with me while I try to paint. He hasn't formed an opinion yet on how he feels about abstract art. I guess we can talk about that when he's a little older.

Right now, he's busy trying to open canvases and hunt down stray paint caps and chew on the legs of my easels. I guess I'll just have to deal with the distractions for now. It's a little aggravating - but I can paint during "nap-time" and before the big kids get home from school. This only leaves a short window of opportunity to focus - but....what the heck...He sure is cute!