Merry Squirrels.

Are you done with your Christmas gifts?

Sorry - I was screwing around on YouTube with my girlfriend Jen and we were watching those fainting goats -anyway, knowing that YouTube is a treasure trove of video delights, I stumbled on this fellow -I thought it was hilarious and had to share it - it never ceases to make me laugh. It also seemed appropriate since there are just a few shopping days left until Christmas!

One of the nice things about this Christmas and creating this new little company this year, I had instant presents for my nearest and dearest.  One those happens to be my photographer Leslie.  She has become a wonderful friend who I enjoy tremendously.  I truly believe that God sends people your way for a reason -  I have been blessed to gain some new friends in the last few years and oddly enough some of them embody different qualities that are so similar to my mom's it is almost like having her around.  Leslie is one of those individuals.  I felt instantly comfortable with her and we have similar parenting styles, not to mention politically we see eye to eye and she is one of those people who appreciates a random phone call just to brag about my latest bargain.  She also could handle discussions on random things, like Sicilian cooking, Abraham Lincoln and best of all Squirrels!!!!

It was obvious to me that I needed to do a Squirrel painting for Leslie for Christmas.  She is from a small town called Olney in Illinois.  I think I have mentioned it before, but it bares repeating.  Olney is known for their Albino Squirrels.  In honor of her heritage I painted this for her:

(I hope you don't mind I grabbed it!!)

I have a few more paintings to share this week - but for now, enjoy this one - I'll be back after this weekend away.  Thanks!

Life

Life, kind of a dramatic title, but it fits.  I found out this morning I did not win the t-shirt contest at Jon's school.  I lost by a disappointing 30 votes.  Actually its pretty funny - so they asked three people - two of the others didn't pan out.  So the PTO scrambled, found another and then created a basic logo with the name of the school in circles.  Simple and to the point. Their design won!  I believe I was misrepresented because my logo was actually suppose to go on the BACK of the shirt not the front and lets be honest other than myself and the people who are from that town in southern Illinois that have the world famous albino squirrels, who wants to wear a big squirrel on their chest?  Ah, but I digress. ;o)

In happier news, today is the first day of school!!! I am so excited for Jon - I thought I would be more melancholy, but it was time.  He'll do great and I know he needs the break from me and being home.  The fights between he and Drew were increasing daily - our days were beginning to resemble WWF Raw by 10 am.  So we all get that much needed break and what is that I hear???  NOTHING, silence, Drew and Penny are playing happily in the basement.  Ah peace...

Traditional Front Step Shot

Totally un-artistic backpack shot

For anyone that hasn't seen Jon lately, yes he is growing his hair out and yes he has guitars on his shoes.  He has informed us he would like a guitar for christmas - ah my little artist.  I always hated that long hollywood hair - a la Zach and Cody style - but for some reason it suits Jon and his personality.  When I trimmed his bangs earlier this week, he informed me - "Mom, don't cut too much off - okay you're done now."  Nice - if it is the worst battle to pick - I don't mind consenting on this one.  Good luck my little boy on your first day of first grade!

So ever curious where and how I work?  Ryan captured me in my element - it is so glamorous and it will may you all awestruck I am sure!

Yes, I do all my work on the couch, I have my little cart with my paints and that is where the magic happens!  Yes, I am sporting a french braid on the top of my head to pull my bangs back. Yes, the pony part of the braid stuck STRAIGHT out the back of my head.  Ryan asked me "So, what's going on with your hair?"  Nice - for better for worse, buddy, for better for worse.

Thanks!  Tomorrow is PICTURE DAY!!!!!