Reflections!

     Gosh, I realize that I'm not a good blogger!  Time goes so quickly and so many wonderful things happen that it is difficult to keep up the post.  But fortunately, I have carved a bit of time for a quick update.
     Our precious grandson, Beau, had his first birthday in Huntsville at his family home to the joy of everyone in attendance.  He was such a sweet and very cooperative baby who clapped after everyone  sung Happy Birthday to him--just how adorable is that!
     This year I reached my 10th anniversary in the teaching profession.  Reflecting back to my first year  in 2004 it is very hard to realize that I made it this long!  Without the support of family and friends and much prayer I would have thrown in the towel long ago.  I'm going for year 11 with much excitement.  I'm taking on the job of FMS yearbook sponsor in addition to my regular teaching schedule.  I have been assigned a "hand picked" group of students to manage the process and I will oversee their work.  This new adventure stimulates my creative vibes and also brings back memories of my high school days on the yearbook staff.
     This summer has been relaxing.  It is the first summer in 10 years that I don't have speaking engagements booked which gives me free time for other things.  I can leisurely go to local professional development classes while still having time to paint, cook and sew.
     My latest challenge has been to paint wedding dress portraits.  The inspiration came from the encouragement of friends.  How exciting it has been to see the results.  It reminds me of the paper doll days of dressing the manequins in fancy flowing ball gowns.  It certainly seems to be taking off with orders that have already been placed.
     I just returned from delivering some of my artwork to a local Daphne restaurant, Samurai J, for an exhibition.  For several years we have loved getting away to enjoy sushi at this favorite local restaurant.  We have established a friendship with the owner, Michele, and after a suggestion was made about their featured artwork I've had the opportunity to showcase my work too. My home is now void of its wall art and the whole concept of "sharing" may take some getting used to!
     Happy summer everyone!