art is everywhere

Here's the story... when I paint I will often use a plastic lid as my paint palette.  It's a easy clean up.  After the paint dries you just peel it off.  Earlier today I was panting black and white checks in my art journal .  When I went to remove the dried paint this is what I discovered.

Most times it's the simple things in life

 that can make me smile.

Altered Brush Project

I had signed up for Donna Downey's Altered Brush Project.   It was alot of fun creating art out of a ordinary paint brush.  It didn't take me long to decide that I wanted showcase the current creative Late Bloomers from my other site .  You know when you are working on something that so exciting you have hard time putting it down?  Well that is what I felt for this project.  I think it turned out cute.

every life has a story

Just wanted to remind you to tune into the Late Bloomer blog on Wednesday morning and meet the newest flower added to the vase.  I sure hope you will continue to follow the blog and see other stories about women who are creatively blooming later in life. Sign up to be a Google Friend you'll be notified of a new post. Easy-Peazy!  Are you a creative Late Bloomer?  Do you know a creative Late Bloomer?  I'd love to share your stories.

I am having such a great time meeting all these wonderful women and sharing their stories.  It's imspiring to me to know these women.
I created these pages in my art journal with them in mind.

late bloomer reminder

On Wednesday, be sure to check out our newest creative Late Bloomer at http://www.imalatebloomer.com

art abandonment at the riverwalk

                    

I have been participating with other artist in a "movement" called  Art Abandonment.  You create a piece of art and secretly place it in an everyday place for some lucky person to find.  The whole idea is to bring a smile to someones face.  You leave a note with the art tell the person that it is a gift to them.  The first time did it I felt like a little kid, you can read the post here. 

This morning I got up at 6:45am, with my camera strapped to my shoulder and went to the Naperville Riverwalk.  It's a beautiful place to walk along a river. 

My intention was to abandon 2 more pieces of art at the riverwalk.  Yet I received much more.  I found serenity sitting on the park bench under this big tree while listening to the river cascade over rocks.  Peaceful would adequately describe the start to my morning.

from sketch to reality

It's funny to see what my original thought was for a painting and then to see what it actually came to be.  That could be a metaphor for life, couldn't it?   Anyway, I did this quick sketch in the early spring knowing I wanted to draw/paint her at a later date.  I remember I had been singing that day (thank goodness no one was listening) and realized how uplifted it made me feel.  When you sing you are "in the moment" and you seem to not have any cares.  I think this drawing sorta resembles Carole Burnett as a character she would have played in her sitcom.  I use to watch her faithfully.  I thought she was a stitch! 

Several days ago I thought it was time for me to draw her.  I had fun drawing her yet as you can see she isn't much like my previous sketch.  That's OK.  The first one was just a reminder sketch.  She is singing and she has curly hair.  When I first started her hair my husband made a sour look on his face as it to say, "it's not looking so good".  I had to agree with him, then remind myself that there is not mistake in art.  I think she turned out pretty good if I do say so myself.

                                              

I'm glad I listened to my heart

Last night my daughter invited me to join her and her family to listen to music in the park near her home. They go most Wednesday nights.  My initial thought was "I have so much to do, I really need to stay home and get it done". (I'm sure you know the feeling!). Instead, I said yes. My granddaughter, Delaina, was so excited that I was going she even let me re-comb her hair and give her a new ponytail. That is a big deal! She's almost 3 and  she gave me her version of what to expect. She cracks me up! We all sat on the blanket eating popcorn and listening to the good music. I "blanket danced" most of the night. I even sang out loud, I mean really loud to several songs. The song that got me the most was by Bon Jovi  "It's My Life".  I'm attaching a link where you can hear the song and read the lyrics at the same time.  Take a moment. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbcHJpSIxBk&feature=youtube_gdata_player

I'm so glad that I listened to my heart.  I enjoyed time with my family which is always good, I listened to good music, and received a valuable message that came at a perfect time.    I've heard it said many times to be open and listen for the messages.  I heard you!