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.....