Lessons learned

The new year is upon us. How did we get to 2010, a new decade? Time is certainly speeding up and I have so many things I want to do. I better hurry.
A reflection on the year brings to mind the 5k I ran in November. My favorite blogger, The Realist has asked me to write a post on my first 5k. Check out the realist's blog, http://www.dietsarecrap.blogspot.com for great health information. A personal insight into a real person's quest for healthy eating, exercise, and the stumbling blocks on the way. Her advice is very palatable. Lesson learned: new year's resolution includes reading this blog to keep my health goals in check.
The show I was accepted into, ArtistsRegistry.com Members Juried Exhibit produced an award of merit. Unfortunately I left the opening before the awards were announced so was surprised and delighted to receive the news via email. Lesson learned: stick around.
I have included a photo of "Lucy's Dogs" the commission I did before Christmas. This piece is acrylic, 30"x 40" with a gallery wrap. What a challenge and a treat to work on this piece. Lesson learned: shipping large paintings across the country takes lots of preparation.
The last month of the year was a great one for sales. Thank you to the wonderful people who thought enough of my work to purchase it to look at daily or to give as a gift. Lesson learned: I am blessed with people who encourage me, many without even knowing how important their confidence in me has been.
Please come back for an update on the 5k article, check out the dietsarecrap.com blog, and a surprise project for the new year.

Come in for a Landing at Avalon Island

The 5th Annual Artists Registry.com Members Juried Exhibit will hold its opening at the Gallery at Avalon Island this Thursday evening, December 17th. The reception is from 6:00-9:00. If you have never been to this space treat yourself with a visit for the opening event or at some point during this show which will be from December 17- January 15, 2010. The address is 39 S. Magnolia Avenue in downtown Orlando. This is the intersection of Pine and Magnolia, a fantastic turquoise colored building. There will be refreshments Thursday evening and the public is invited.
95 artists will have work shown in this juried show. Lady of the Stars, my acrylic 18"x 24" painting will be hanging for visitors to see. Not a print or giclee, but live and in person.
This copyrighted image to the left is entitled, Coming in for a Landing. Blessings from me to you this holiday season and in the coming new year.

Snowman in tow

Moving forward with snowmen in tow to the Trinity Art Bazaar on Friday. Come and support your local artists and see this piece, I Want That One.

Ho Ho Ho

In preparation for an art bazaar this week I am mounting some Christmas scenes on wood covered by Christmas themed paper. The image is then protected by a piece of plexiglass nailed to the board with decorative upholstery tacks. A little "ho ho ho" as the season takes off and we all run to keep up with it.
Take a break today with something or somebody that reminds you of good cheer and a warm happy household.

Run+ family+feast+friends+art=smile+gratitude

What a ride/run it has been through the last week. Thanksgiving morning I ran my first 5k, the Turkey Trot. I ran the whole way! My children ran with me, rather way ahead of me, they are pretty fast, 23:28 and 24:28, I was 39:40. After only a month and a half of training I am pleased that I could make that time. The great feeling of accomplishment will keep me going to more races in the future. We then feasted with dear friends and family. The next day my email brought the news that The Lady of the Stars had been accepted for the 5th Annual Artists Registry.com Members Juried Show. The exhibit will be open from December 17th to January 14th at the beautiful Gallery at Avalon Island.
This is a nice way to kick off the season. Optimistic and healthy and grateful.