Thanks to all friends and family who have helped us during my spouse's surgery and on-going recovery.  I am so far behind, but just wanted to post my gratitude for those of you who have shared your home, hospitality, brought home-made pudding, inquired, checked-in, encouraged, and cared.  This morning this wonderful breakfast showed up at our door.  If you are unaware, it is rare that we eat at home.  This delightful home cooked meal was delivered first thing and included a homemade card no less!  It was delicious and that jelly was fantastic...I'm pretty sure I could just eat it with a spoon.  We are mindful of the generosity you have shown us.  Thank you.  Back to my brushes.

"It doesn't matter what story we're telling, we're telling the story of family."  - Erica Lorraine Scheidt

Yes, I have been absent.  Thanks to all those who have inquired and sent encouraging messages.  For those unaware, we have been traveling to see specialists concerning my spouse's medical issue.  Surgery was scheduled for five days later.  In other words ASAP.  On a positive note, I am happy to share that my paintings were accepted into the National Watercolor Society's 95th International Exhibit; the SouthWest Artist's "Art of the Heartland" Painting Competition; and the Artist's of Northwest Arkansas 21st Annual Regional Exhibit.  The exhibition and reception dates can be seen on my Events page.  Feeling a little stressed about getting the NWS piece shipped before surgery.  For your enjoyment I have included one of my images featuring the wonderful architecture of the Seattle Public Library.  Back to my brushes. 

"It isn't the mountain ahead that wears you out; it is the grain of sand in your shoe."  - Unknown

Took a short trip to the Daniel Smith store and factory in Seattle while attending the NWWS 75th Diamond Celebration.  Guests enjoyed a private tour of the factory which included four very informative live presentations.  Instead of writing about it myself, I’m sending you on a short blog-hop to Carmella Tuliszewski page to read her great review of the event.  Click this link and be sure and watch the video: http://carmella-tuliszewski.blogspot.com/2015/07/show-musings.html   Enjoy!  Back to my brushes.

“Summer has filled her veins with light and her heart is washed with noon.”  - C. Day Lewis

I couldn’t find a *$ in Seattle – kidding.  Actually I found the closest store to my hotel was my best option for a quick and delicious breakfast on the run.  On the way to the Daniel Smith factory tour, we just happened to pass by the world headquarters.  Hard to believe I had the presence of mind to snap a pic thinking about what lay ahead.  All those colors -  and I got to try out all the ones I wished.  Magical.  Finished a tiny painting today showing the versatility of a technique I will be addressing at the workshop in September.  Back to my brushes. 

“People don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they’re happy.”  - Anton Chekhov