I have been busy this weekend moving my “office” which was located in the bedroom/ half of the closet/some space in the bathroom :) It has now been RElocated to the closet (and a little shelf in the bathroom). Which might sound like a pain but i LOVE it. I have my own little corner which for some reason helps me focus (i knew I should have been tested for ADD). and I have everything I need within arms reach (computer, typewriter, griddle, books..) everything the closet artist might need!
Which leads me to the during photo picture in which I am working on a book for my Book Arts class. I took a print (I have previously posted) and played with it making this little book. So fun. It makes me want to add encaustic (wax) to everything I do! Which I will.. pictures to come on my next print.. :)
For your viewing pleasure.. I found this adorable little DIY I might have to attempt..it would be the perfect thing for my closet studio! Or for my Dad’s computer geeky office for christmas :)
http://www.designsponge.com/2009/05/the-green-space-travel-case-goodbye-to-you.html
I feel like this should be something that I chant to myself daily. I had an exciting day. A downer night. And {hopefully} a restful sleep ahead.
I am working with the visiting artist at school this weekend (it is technically my fall break after my tennis class tomorrow..yay for 2 days off) I have been feeling less than enthusiastic about my work and effort this semester so far so I am nearly literally prayer for a burst of inspiration that kicks my in gear. It is an artist I actually really love so I am hopeful.
I have a note above my desk that says “Result is worth everything”. I am starting to wonder what the result is that I am looking for…just to “make it” through school? For what purpose? As I am entering shows and looking for ways to look like a “good artist” I can’t help but wonder, why??? By the time I get home and get addi settled with dinner I am lucky if I can make dinner without buying at some fast food location and get seated before I hear “MOMMA” from the other room. I am not inspired at home, I often feel tired, cranky, and bored at school. I’m not inspired.. I’m not bursting with ideas I’m ready to sketch out and racing to the library to research printmaking techniques..so why am I here? I feel sick half the time and too busy to make a doctors appointment.. It’s like a never ending circle.
I know I am being a negative Nancy right now (it probably doesn’t help the consistent rotation of Amy Winehouse songs circling my Pandora playlist) but it’s true none the less. I think this is just something that can be solved in pursuing my 22 before 23 list.. I will be proud..happier? Something.. I’m waiting to feel something longer than 10 seconds..
This is my recent Letterpress print.
Last semester I was completely consumed with the thought of over thinking. That was a confusing sentence but true none the less. I am one to get completely lost and eventually depressed with my thoughts. My mind goes with the “what could have beens” “what should have beens” and those are terrible phrases no matter how your life turned out. It always comes at the worst times.. Reading my Bible earlier a friend texted me something that got my mind spinning and I’m not sure why.. It’s not like it really matters and although I understand the feelings, Im not sure why I have them. The thing I love about art is the way you can use image, word, title and express those emotions without anyone really having to know the entire back story. It’s nice.
Something that I am thrown into thought about now is my list. The things I want to do and accomplish..in no way that makes sense I want to do something great. Prove to myself that I am strong. Who am I trying to be? It’s time to work on that..
Number 11 on my list is to enter 10 juried shows this year. I entered my first of 10 today and I feel good about it. I entered the same show that I took first runner up in last semester. The first time I had ever been recognized for my work..felt pretty good. Ok well it felt really good and this year I obviously anticipate some failures..but I really hope for some victories.
Every time I have doubted my art, major, skills I receive a sign.. I take as an answer from God reminding me that I am on the right path right now. I certainly feel defeat frequently..surrounded by so many super super talented people it makes me question how I am even still there..but then I remember -I am good. I have never claimed “best in class” or even in show but I feel like I have gained respect from my instructors and from the occasional peer. If I even doubt my place God shows me that I have a place, right where he wants me. Do I know why? Do I have any clue what I am going to be doing in a year or two? No way! (sorry dad..) but I will..
I am also on my way to completing number 4- read the entire Bible. I have a reading plan set out and I’m actually really excited. There has been a lot going on lately..I am really blessed even if I don’t always pay attention. When you do pay attention life is that much better, happier and full of purpose.
I am back. As promised of course. And I am a proud new owner of an IPad which leaves me no excuse for not posting frequently. I just had my birthday, and although I really in no way feel old (in a way I feel too young still..given my status and the differences in my life comparatively.) I really want to make sure I am accomplishing all that I want to in my life. I spend so much time down on what I havent done that sometimes I forget to appreciate what I have accomplished this year (another year married, with addi, and in school..just to name a few big ones). I have noticed that I have been saying “this year” as though it is the new year..but it is something that has been marking my time my whole life. I have waited for my birthday, prayed for it to come faster, and then celebrated with large parties through out my life, and seeing as it is the most popular birthday..I can say it’s pretty big.
Anyways..I hate to think that down the line I will reach an age scared of how old I am. Scared that I’m running out of time with my family to really do the things I want to. And when I turn 23 I want to look back proud the amazing journey I had, starting today. I will remember the list I made (seen above) and remember how scary some of those seemed when I wrote them down last night..but that will all seem silly then..and I can’t wait!!!
Andrew has been really thrilled to start an adventure..to move and start this fresh new life. Although I am tied to my school right now..I am going to spend time this year in preparation for starting a brand new phase in our lives. All of that to say- I am going to make an effort to mark the journey as I start fresh with intention this year. A year to create ( #11 is to enter 10 juried shows), live (#1 is go on an adventure) and to love (#10 is be kind [to Andrew]). All in all I hope that I get to #12…with a smile on my face and love beaming from my heart..ready for number 22.
Addison is so awesome. I’ve been gone for weeks but I’m coming back..we have moved and love where we are! I’ve seem to have caught a little cold but I’m hoping to make it through the next few weeks.. Goals.. 1. Finish unpacking! 2. Cook more 3. Finish up school to the best I can! More goals for the month later:) Yes..there will be a later..

Who absolutely loves the photo booth app..and all of the neat effects…and barely ever lets me act like im kissing her without punching me in the face..i treasure the adorable child..
I want to title this image: “What was I thinking??”. Don’t get me wrong, I am so happy that I am taking my last Art History class (even though I am TRYING to enjoy it) and I am in my LAST science class and I absolutely LOVE my literature class. I know I will be proud in the end but it is hard to get myself active in these classes! Sometimes I wish I just took the summer off. I keep reminding myself that I will be done with my gen eds in the FALL! yay.
The house situation is done. Next will be our moving sale which will be NEXT WEEKEND. Then MOVING. yay.
Also addi will be back to school next week..who I have LOVED having home this week (as I question that statement I am stepping on a pile of toothpicks she dropped under my desk)..so more props to the stay at home moms..maybe one day..after I find my peace and good temper..it might be a while..
Addison and Mommy’s picture day turned into video too! Extra special<3
i love this kids laugh. she has a specific laugh that always cracks me up!!
I sure hope so! I am wiped out! My 10th…yes 10th person should be here to look any minute. And no I don’t mean 10 total..that would be 16 total views.
Don’t get me wrong, I am totally pumped about that..just ready for this madness to be over. And for my peace to ensue.
I took an encaustic class at the beginning of the summer and it was fantastic. I had a lot of emotional things going on at the time so my work was dramatic and more dark than it is usually which was actually kind of interesting to try..

Some of my favorite..not great pictures..but I hid my camera stuff for the showings..
My point was I haven’t been able to get my griddle and such out since the class…or really work on anything besides these classes..maybe 3 online classes..astronomy, art history, and literature was not such a good idea..Oh well..
picture time with addi and me today… maybe ill try and have one every day for fun <3
