Fall Vignette

The last day of September- WOW. Time flies. We did a quick tidy up of the flat files today filed with all sorts of original art I haven't seen in ages. (like a walk down memory lane) Fun to see again now knowing who bought the art. (I like to know they've been placed in a good home) I found all sorts of bits I'll post over the next couple months. For now it's a seasonably appropriate fall vignette.

Samples

I've been busy putting together new samples of work for some of my favorite publishers. The photos are not all I had hoped for but as the packages have already left the studio it's a done deal. I try to format my work in different ways to keep it fresh for the recipients. This time it's a clothes line format with main image on front/ pattern or secondary image on the back. My favorite part was the clothes pin animals I built. (painting clothes pins/ paint & paper collage for animal heads) They turned out so sweet & I'm kicking myself for not taking a photo close up. The goal was to get it down, have it look good & get it out- So mission accomplished. Why does today feel like Monday?

Home sweet HOME

We're back from a business trip to New York. We mixed a little work with play which is never a bad idea. Luca was able to come with us. I feel so lucky we're able to take him along. (although I know it's taxing at times) We arrived home late last night & all I can say is Dorothy was right "There is no place like home."

Wall Play

Hello to all & Happy Saturday! I wanted to post some wall decals I made the art for. I received a box with these lovely samples yesterday. Can't wait to play with the Solar System & Alphabet in Luca's room. The company that produces them is Wallies. Check them out if you have a little one it's a really cool product!

Amazement

Who doesn't need a little wonder in their life? I try to find at least two beautiful moments, sights or sounds each day. Makes my world a happier place.

Todays: 1. Wrestling sound of fall leaves in the trees as the wind catches them.

2. My lunch date with my boys & the smile on their faces when I walked in the door.

(busy day at the studio so they stayed home today... Missed them!)

Saturday at the Orchard

Today I wanted to post a little glimpse of our weekend outing to Vaughn's Orchard in Weston Missouri. We go every year. Luca is an apple lover. (I remember when I was pregnant eating more apples than I had at any other time in my life.) We started out with a tour of the orchard,

picking apples as we wandered along. Then a stop at the tractor for Luca to take a ride, next a sampling of apple goodness. Two apple slushy, 1 cider, 3 fritters & one candy apple. With a tummy full of sweets we hit the store to take home apple butter, apple cider & a hand made wooden bobbing head turtle toy for Luca. All & All not a bad Saturday. Always my favorite the candy apple we even have a print to memorialize them.

Announcing MAX!

It's with Great JOY that I announce the arrival of Maxwell Jackson McDonald. My brother Brad & his wife Amy had their first little one today. (not the brother that just got married:) Luca now has a cousin in Boston. I'm on overload with family excitement! We missed Brad & Amy at the wedding last weekend so now we'll plan a visit to the east to meet the new addition. They'll be terrific parents! Welcome MAX we've been waiting for you! Love Aunt Jill.....

Luca's Birthday

So our little Luca turned two about two weeks ago now. Just posting a few of the highlights today. We spent the day celebrating him with his favorite foods, people & music. He is doing so well it's exciting to see his personality starting to bloom. He's surprising us, telling us just what he thinks, cracking us up & keeping us completely busy! He's by far the best thing I ever had a part in making. (and the journey continues)

Sailing Through Summer

We had a beautiful summer hope you did too. Today I'm posting bits from another collection I made for Two Peas in a bucket (digital downloads). It's got a folksy, americana feel that I love to paint, highlights about home, family & connections along with some nods to the nautical world.

Take a look, Happy Labor day - we sailed through summer!

Wedding Wishes

I'm almost out the door to my brother Kris's rehearsal dinner. He's getting married this Saturday to a lovely, sweet, smart lady - Ashley. I feel like my heart is getting bigger as I grow up. I understand the importance of of commitment more. I want to savor the sweet moments of celebrating those I love & can say I'm seeing the big picture so much more clearly. (before this would of been an excuse for a cute new dress) Being his Big Sis I couldn't be happier to see how his new in laws have embraced him, how he's stepped up to the plate & grown through the crazy planning a wedding process. I hear them talk about their future plans & dreams, see the twinkle they have for each other in their eye & that newly wed/ newly engaged need to kiss way to often. All this makes my heart sing! Here's to LOVE, Dreams & new beginnings as ONE! (can you tell I'll be a sobbing mess at the wedding)

My Great Adventure

Antonio & I are off for a day long business adventure tomorrow. That said I thought it was appropriate timing to share this Travel collection (My Great Adventure) that's now available on the Two Peas site. (see yesterdays post for the link) I've featured a few of my favorites. My approach to scrapbooking papers is highly illustrated & everything but the kitchen sink. Makes for a great paper but takes forever. Bon Voyage for today!