tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37118277777315543322024-03-14T00:45:03.648-07:00almost mondayThe trials and tribulations of an artist.Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-12031909175124376712016-05-29T20:15:00.000-07:002016-05-29T20:15:12.442-07:00Back in the Saddle Today I dropped off some prints and jewelry at the lovely <a href="http://www.pdxchange.net/" target="_blank">PDXChange</a> on Mississippi Ave. Tom and Jess have been very supportive of my work and are wonderful shop owners. Stop by and see them if you've never been and even if you have. They have a wonderful assortment of things from around the world and local Portland goods. Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-11451596597905458692015-11-30T10:17:00.000-08:002015-11-30T10:31:07.673-08:00TransitionsWow! It's been over 2 years since I last wrote here. I've been busy traveling and creating! But it hasn't been printmaking or painting. I do miss those things but my new venture is also very rewarding! Maybe you know what's been taking up all my time? If not, let me introduce you to my new creative outlet! Steel and Stones - Artisian stainless steel jewelry. I'm working with my boyfriend who lives in Oaxaca, Mexico. Please check it out. We have an <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SteelAndStones" target="_blank">Etsy store</a>, and sell in <a href="http://angstgallery.com/" target="_blank">Angst Gallery</a> and of course have a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SteelAndStonesJewelry" target="_blank">facebook page!</a> Please do "like" us on facebook to see the latest creations. <br>
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And what's new with you? Do tell! :)<div><br></div><div><br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih8J9sLq5AEu-LSZKwp6fqMCnxqG-VRpEHlabgY-RlVxL5gG9obQZetgNDdCj8vrBRWc1_LyEmVph5tU42_HmYYIcUoetbjGGdFPrmRGrExvfYZhib4q1dpvTsMo7cBAtf5N0-C4TqsQ/s640/blogger-image--1398221626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgih8J9sLq5AEu-LSZKwp6fqMCnxqG-VRpEHlabgY-RlVxL5gG9obQZetgNDdCj8vrBRWc1_LyEmVph5tU42_HmYYIcUoetbjGGdFPrmRGrExvfYZhib4q1dpvTsMo7cBAtf5N0-C4TqsQ/s640/blogger-image--1398221626.jpg"></a></div><br>
<br></div>Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-73047924355886148592013-11-14T15:54:00.001-08:002013-11-14T15:54:47.976-08:00Bikecraft 2013Get ready! http://www.bikecraftpdx.com<div><br></div><div>November just turned into a busy month! </div><div><br></div><div>November 30th and December 1st at Velo Cult! See you there! <br><div><br></div></div>Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-40249216743088511012013-04-08T14:37:00.002-07:002013-04-08T14:37:58.039-07:00The D.T's<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftddVtru61eFsyVO2MduWs4Ffupl55yFDgNwJHYWb6tduu5Lc01M3TMHv4x_8Hbwxl25_pXggBqlUT9mwj9l7onPpq9hQOez-sLtdlG2d30ZU3aLfg3pva1iMSyQ28kTluBWsEr_TVxk/s1600/P1000607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftddVtru61eFsyVO2MduWs4Ffupl55yFDgNwJHYWb6tduu5Lc01M3TMHv4x_8Hbwxl25_pXggBqlUT9mwj9l7onPpq9hQOez-sLtdlG2d30ZU3aLfg3pva1iMSyQ28kTluBWsEr_TVxk/s320/P1000607.JPG" width="180" /></a>Delirium tremens, also known as the shakes. It's what happens to alcoholics or other drug users whenthey suddenly stop. That's not exactly what happened to me when I put my brushes down and moved out of the studio Feb. 26th, but close. My mood plummeted and my irritation rose. Not exactly the smartest way to go about things but I was up against deadlines and other obligations. So here I am one month plus of no painting, no home studio set up and no time soon for painting. The month of May will be the month of refocus and back to painting I will go. It may look different to me, with less time dedicated to only painting, as I have taken a part time job and possibly another one on the way. But not without a little R&R in the tropics and a crap ton of yoga first to recapture some focus and clarity. <br />
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In other news, I am thinking of offering a very limited edition of prints from the March show. Once the paintings are properly photographed and digitized. <br />
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Happy Spring!<br />
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<br />Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-65562906098998762372013-03-01T12:02:00.002-08:002013-03-01T12:02:29.250-08:00Solo Show Opens Tongiht!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrisFUtIfCb8ZowNVvXgzC7qmEEjaREvkHuOiW3trkqzPbhdWwc18mMVovAtfR7kNAKASdwdxNiNJ2Xmm8_UzvIqHVGVP9oN-oBVx6qsWv51Y2CKUSA5P4wlLozfsdKSRURfcHAZvw81I/s1600/photo(57).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Tonight is my first solo show and I'm pretty excited. I've been so busy
painting I haven't been able to update this blog! So here's a sneak
peak! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1uxL4GPArTnT3G1liQNgLn7WcmpAGEPDO-wOgZzHYhK6V9B0zkNNfSZUFfYD05lPED1bG0DQYLDXZ-f4D2wZ608ccvmQWBpyWcLGOQ5aSF5pcGNek9jzSdNDkN2l7p9g0tb1MbgAQD0/s1600/photo(60).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1uxL4GPArTnT3G1liQNgLn7WcmpAGEPDO-wOgZzHYhK6V9B0zkNNfSZUFfYD05lPED1bG0DQYLDXZ-f4D2wZ608ccvmQWBpyWcLGOQ5aSF5pcGNek9jzSdNDkN2l7p9g0tb1MbgAQD0/s320/photo(60).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Living: Hand to Mouth. What Sustains Us?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-Y1xYsGzJNY0Ih2Rtb0_P2KD6M6jdoTukMwYoUv8N04l_XeRaL_5A93zXP7M_Q4eDO02bJyNAoVo2asbaeA6kZZ9DZ5yo3euQu2XiU5jYWsPYR7PMYcNyk3GiMzkBBOWenQAd9rOPCg/s1600/photo(59).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-Y1xYsGzJNY0Ih2Rtb0_P2KD6M6jdoTukMwYoUv8N04l_XeRaL_5A93zXP7M_Q4eDO02bJyNAoVo2asbaeA6kZZ9DZ5yo3euQu2XiU5jYWsPYR7PMYcNyk3GiMzkBBOWenQAd9rOPCg/s320/photo(59).JPG" width="320" /></a>This series was
sparked during lunch with a friend when he jokingly placed his napkin in
front of his face as I took his photo. I began to think about how our
gestures and the things we cherish are representative of "us"; how each
person has something that defines them; how the small things can sustain and nourish
us through life's difficulties. Some of the things portrayed are literal, others
representative of something larger. It is important to me that I
capture, but not hold prisoner, a piece of the subject's essence in each
painting. Because it is more than a form or parts of the body that make up a
figure painting. <br /><br />For this body of work, most pieces were created
using a limited pallet of transparent earth red, ultramarine blue,
yellow ochre, titanium white, and at times, actual black and a hint of
cadmium red when required. Most of the darks seen in the figures are
the result of transparent earth red mixed with ultramarine blue. I
paint for the pleasure painting, sometimes there is not a finished
product. Painting gives me a sense of peace and belonging, along with endorphins, similar to a runners high. It's my
belief that these emotions further my connection to the painting and
thereby embedding part of my spirit in each painting, too.
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<br />Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-62761332146726409942013-01-27T15:12:00.003-08:002013-01-27T15:12:39.811-08:00You Picked a Fine TimeI'm in a painting frenzy! But it seems my body can really only take standing and painting about 5 hours a day lately. And apparently standing to paint makes me really hungry. I took the last photo to paint from for my series for the Show March 1st and will start the last one today. Then all the work will be started. Only 3 paintings are officially complete. I have 2 more that are really close. The remaining 11 are in various states. My biggest concern is also my largest painting. The female response to the dark angel(aka el corazon del hombre...) painting. I've finally got the forms mostly working, but any painting that is 4' x 4' is bound to run in to problems. Like a title. haha <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwqUbtuKRpX6_i2Ce9XE1Nh5_RvZPS6EkFEok69X47JQJuql_Vsk8uQca2psOypZDoImEkDrLNUEVL8Sym0ZgpG3nX_xHMX8BRbZAImsMaqyliHdgYOwoALuvkEooOLC3tZV4wOPh678/s1600/photo(53).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwqUbtuKRpX6_i2Ce9XE1Nh5_RvZPS6EkFEok69X47JQJuql_Vsk8uQca2psOypZDoImEkDrLNUEVL8Sym0ZgpG3nX_xHMX8BRbZAImsMaqyliHdgYOwoALuvkEooOLC3tZV4wOPh678/s320/photo(53).JPG" width="240" /></a>Framing is also a bit of a concern. I have 15 portraits that require frames. I'll need to find a frame I like, which has been a problem, and put hangers on the back. This is also expensive! Even if I were to find an amazing deal, anything times 15 is expensive. I will have to keep that in mind if I keep painting on these panels. I can't just paint the edge and hang them.<br />
<br />
I've had a headache since Friday which isn't helping anything. I'm in the studio today but not as effective as I should be. I basically have4 weeks to finish everything. Which sounds like a long time, but it's not. Paint has to dry, some form of vanish applied, framing. I also have other commitments and responsibilities to attend to. Spanish class twice a week until Feb. 11th. I now have a part time job on Wednesdays. I can't neglect my yoga practice, friends, cats, chickens, laundry, dishes, eating, and well you get the picture. :)<br />
<br />
Ok, back at it! Here's a sneak peak.<br />
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<br />Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-21060619073140655492013-01-02T21:19:00.001-08:002013-01-02T21:19:26.920-08:00Lists of My ListsHappy 2013! Day two of the new year finds me still getting ready for the new year. The good news is in my mind it actually starts on Monday. The rest of this week is for finishing up last years this and that, organizing, sorting and making some plans. <br />
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Things I'm looking forward to:<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wl4y4RouUHzEzbaN9RniQ5NiQsZKuSQpKU9Uc9tXtQCyjVt2IR3ZZcgHAjGLQfLqofuu64Fadr83I-PvfkvgVb4ZrcjJOm5WhUpXV8PfaiN6YRPRc3-bnF-zmyHTCymlQIAthNFjGTI/s1600/darkangel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wl4y4RouUHzEzbaN9RniQ5NiQsZKuSQpKU9Uc9tXtQCyjVt2IR3ZZcgHAjGLQfLqofuu64Fadr83I-PvfkvgVb4ZrcjJOm5WhUpXV8PfaiN6YRPRc3-bnF-zmyHTCymlQIAthNFjGTI/s200/darkangel.jpg" width="198" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"el Corazon del Hombre..."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Angst's annual <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AngstGallery" target="_blank">Male Form</a> show. I have placed "el Corazon del Hombre" aka Dark Angle in the show. The opening is this Friday the 4th. I'm planning on being there around 7pm. I'm excited to see what else will be there! <br />
<br />
I will be modeling for the <a href="http://www.outreach.c216.net/show/13/39-4242f9aed93e" target="_blank">Cuevas Art Studio</a> in Hillsboro on Jan. 12th .<br />
<h2>
<span itemprop="name"></span></h2>
Almost Monday prints is the featured artist for February at <a href="http://bikeasaurus.com/gallery/" target="_blank">Bikeasaurus!</a> I have some work to do to get ready and a couple new blocks to carve and print! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxN55d_IOucd8i7r9MG3t4hNnbzLPAdoZp8tLAIYfAVMi1LD87vcigSdb9BON1Wolw4AcA-xYQj9QG8hjuskDbtafuAkFksTFd8t5P1Y-y4DKUwL5e5_izeuE0I7-ekUedgrLnM7ND5Y/s1600/photo(45).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxN55d_IOucd8i7r9MG3t4hNnbzLPAdoZp8tLAIYfAVMi1LD87vcigSdb9BON1Wolw4AcA-xYQj9QG8hjuskDbtafuAkFksTFd8t5P1Y-y4DKUwL5e5_izeuE0I7-ekUedgrLnM7ND5Y/s200/photo(45).JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
I'm trying to get a solo show for my new series of portraits. I have a lot of painting to do and still some models to corral! Month and venue to be announced, soon I hope! <br />
<br />
Submitting a painting to <a href="http://cascadeaids.org/events/art-evening-auction" target="_blank">Cascade AIDS Project Art Auction</a>. Hopefully my piece will be selected! <br />
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I have some other things that I'm contemplating but they are still in the early list and to check out phases. <br />
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Here's to an exciting 2013 filled with love, happiness, peace and adventure! I wish you all the best! xo<br />
<br />Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-86080549949785580282012-12-17T19:57:00.001-08:002012-12-17T19:57:37.862-08:00My Life is Not Still<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7SWbPCXdD7r7hQdT3JlxarDtXB-49V-bqxPJqE_hzAIf_lxcVx5XqkpyKjvlPcmv86RZb-gTwQiqPSwZSZfmJ7fK3WHlboAtv01FmfxHIV2ztz4hyphenhyphenJ5RR0-XwhJH_FlBxvpIc4aTwHk/s1600/photo(42).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7SWbPCXdD7r7hQdT3JlxarDtXB-49V-bqxPJqE_hzAIf_lxcVx5XqkpyKjvlPcmv86RZb-gTwQiqPSwZSZfmJ7fK3WHlboAtv01FmfxHIV2ztz4hyphenhyphenJ5RR0-XwhJH_FlBxvpIc4aTwHk/s320/photo(42).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagtCRb_3p97moXDwAF5fHV_2JyLUDQGQuVoAhzrLhUtnRuSqo9dAUqPTpNBk98WqAqpNu3h3nZLmReE4LunhYwyC9AJQKun6SBi69dYRkr3vDO2iKxtS3WFVcJOJeHXVQlUyDFQPcUxM/s1600/photo(43).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagtCRb_3p97moXDwAF5fHV_2JyLUDQGQuVoAhzrLhUtnRuSqo9dAUqPTpNBk98WqAqpNu3h3nZLmReE4LunhYwyC9AJQKun6SBi69dYRkr3vDO2iKxtS3WFVcJOJeHXVQlUyDFQPcUxM/s320/photo(43).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Many times I've turned my nose up at still-life painting. I'm not sure why, a problem with figure painters I suppose. But then a fairly successful artist told me that you can't get better from painting from photo. (I don't know if this is true) Models are expensive and my eyes were getting tired of looking at the computer monitor. So I went to the grocer and bought some models for a few small still life paintings. It was a nice change. <br />
I will probably paint a few more in the next few weeks. Pomegranate and pear getting cozy, with a large pine cone lurking in the distance. Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-62910577935779514852012-12-04T11:54:00.002-08:002012-12-04T11:54:43.469-08:00tan·gi·ble /ˈtanjəbəl/<h3 class="r g0">
<span style="padding-bottom: 14px; padding-right: 15px;"><em>tan·gi·ble</em></span><span style="font: smaller 'Doulos SIL','Gentum','TITUS Cyberbit Basic','Junicode','Aborigonal Serif','Arial Unicode MS','Lucida Sans Unicode','Chrysanthi Unicode'; padding-bottom: 7px;">/ˈtanjəbəl/</span><span class="speaker-icon-listen-off" data-s="tangible.mp3" id="speaker_icon" style="margin-left: .7em; margin: 0;"></span></h3>
<table class="ts"><tbody>
<tr><td style="color: #666666; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px;" valign="top" width="80px">Adjective:</td><td style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px;" valign="top"><table class="ts"><tbody>
<tr><td>Perceptible by touch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ddd" height="1px"><td colspan="2" height="1px"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="color: #666666; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px;" valign="top" width="80px">Noun:</td><td style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px;" valign="top"><table class="ts"><tbody>
<tr><td>A thing that is perceptible by touch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ddd" height="1px"><td colspan="2" height="1px"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td style="color: #666666; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px;" valign="top" width="80px">Synonyms:</td><td style="padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 5px;" valign="top"><div>
palpable - concrete - touchable - real - tactile</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
One of my favorite things about art is that it is tangible. Every thing about art is tangible. The materials, the waste, the objects created. Obviously I am a 2D artist and that is what I am referring to. Another thing that is tangible is mail. Real delivered to your door (or postbox) mail. I'm guilty of not writing as many real letters as I should. It really is a lost art, and if you are looking for a New Years resolution, it's a good one: More letter writing. <br />
<br />
Sunday morning I opened my mail from the day before and I was pleasantly surprised to have a real honest to goodness heart felt letter from a friend. It really was perfect timing too. Remember the job interview I had a couple weeks ago? The one where 200+ other applicants applied for a part time receptionist position? I recieved an email Sunday morning informing me that they hired someone else. Part of me was relieved, as I felt like I was about to cheat on my boyfriend, Painting. But the other part of me was freaked out. I can't even land a part time job that I have more than enough experience with? But then I remembered the words in the letter, and they ring all too true. I hope my friend doesn't mind me sharing. "I'm glad you're doing your own thing instead of slamming yourself with the ridiculous job search. What a joke that whole thing is. People like us were not meant for the occupational death marches of today. We have to find alternatives because the options they offer are soul death. What's the point?!" <br />
<br />
I couldn't have said it better myself! Some people are meant for the daily grind, the 9-5 or the 8-7 everyday all day, in a cubical, producing, tasking, working for the man. I'm not one of them. At least not right now. It's not in my blood. Or my genes to be exact, I come from a long line of immigrants, explorers, Gypsy's, and hippies. I'm the first college graduate in my family, the first one to have a desk job, and the first one to tell you this isn't the life I was meant to lead. At least not right now. That could change. I know of a job coming up in the spring that might be perfect for me. Not sitting at a desk every day. But for now, I'm putting my brush to the canvas and my ink to the paper. I don't have much money, but I have my freedom. And I have time to stay up late talking to my friends and time to get up early to go to yoga with them. and that time with friends is worth way more than a new car or a big house or fancy clothes. Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-18578358541296014232012-12-03T18:16:00.002-08:002012-12-03T18:16:41.981-08:00BikeCraft 2012<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlybn23l118pTvRwPVgGg5cmceJ_osRkFZ8RSmo761B7xWZTPgFBQL3M7sVCTebocJnyv5Q78eesIeR9hv7SmxM53Y5mDuNyRB2Q5rD7bgiwIfOMP1MmfsyDPYHe14nYc-eHI_usThrCQ/s1600/photo(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlybn23l118pTvRwPVgGg5cmceJ_osRkFZ8RSmo761B7xWZTPgFBQL3M7sVCTebocJnyv5Q78eesIeR9hv7SmxM53Y5mDuNyRB2Q5rD7bgiwIfOMP1MmfsyDPYHe14nYc-eHI_usThrCQ/s320/photo(6).JPG" width="320" /></a>BikeCraft 2012 was awesome for many reasons! Mostly because I got to see the other vendors and customers that I haven't seen for about a year! Thank you everyone who made it amazing! <br />
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I've added my new things to Etsy. Although I need to retake some photos! :) <br />
http://www.etsy.com/shop/almostmonday<br />
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Here is the right up from Bike Portland!<br />
http://bikeportland.org/2012/12/02/take-a-tour-of-opening-day-at-bikecraft-80775<br />
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<br />Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-62314041110739814492012-11-28T14:20:00.000-08:002012-11-28T14:20:52.543-08:00Plan-olasTrying to come up with a plan for my life. A long term plan. Seems reasonable but it's actually not. <br />
Last week I had a job interview. I know, I said I was committing to painting and only painting through the end of February, but this job is with an awesome company! So I applied, as did over 200 other people just as qualified as I am. It's not in my industry but I am more worried about working for a good company then having a glamorous job. Fortunately, I know a person at the company and was granted an interview. Which went quite well. They are interviewing 6 other people. I should know the results by Monday. It's part time to start so will work well as I finish up the portraits I'm working on.<br />
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I guess I'm waiting to hear back before I make any other decisions, such as house, or jobs in other countries, or jobs here. Or anything really. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKgJViKk_dgtTMHnzVkt355usah2I9Tz_Db3H08WQtLUaIZ8YR_WE1AuV_7DX3zgHyXAYnWn-izNwPaah9AGMxW-4J-ZPOHO4FqM7o_gPBh_xnhbmcj3bR96S-oyGEsPUXAjEIwmJ5uE/s1600/photo(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKgJViKk_dgtTMHnzVkt355usah2I9Tz_Db3H08WQtLUaIZ8YR_WE1AuV_7DX3zgHyXAYnWn-izNwPaah9AGMxW-4J-ZPOHO4FqM7o_gPBh_xnhbmcj3bR96S-oyGEsPUXAjEIwmJ5uE/s320/photo(7).JPG" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work in Progress: Julia y Baby</td></tr>
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In the mean time yoga is treating me quite well, as is painting. It's so nice having a schedule and a studio space. I am still doing a bit of pet sitting and am now insured. Check out my little site and please do give me feed back! :) http://www.crabbykittyinc.com/<br />
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I'll leave you with this portrait of my dear friend Julia and her son. I started this last fall and have now racked up approximately 1.5 million hours on it. Babies are hard to paint and bad photos are hard to paint from. But it's getting there. I estimate another 10 hours until complete. Or until I'm so sick of it I can't look at it any more! :) Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-9325014174452551772012-11-03T11:12:00.002-07:002012-11-03T11:12:55.231-07:00Ch-ch-ch-ch-ChangesSaturday morning, November 3rd 2012. Time goes by so fast. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSI9Y6wWdQ7MJBAuVI8QcosFs2tUmUXmhcOlI6bwMmnpYRUfRs98139igv_SoQveKq_Neebb7d3KxIoNTTEZTPZ2s88EC-Mg-1OCwj8_ZU2mkeiTx8kBMeSmEXsSKNH6klmg2TyYmUc3Y/s1600/photo(23).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSI9Y6wWdQ7MJBAuVI8QcosFs2tUmUXmhcOlI6bwMmnpYRUfRs98139igv_SoQveKq_Neebb7d3KxIoNTTEZTPZ2s88EC-Mg-1OCwj8_ZU2mkeiTx8kBMeSmEXsSKNH6klmg2TyYmUc3Y/s320/photo(23).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I was thinking about this blog and what it's purpose is, and of course, what my purpose is. I have dedicated myself to painting and not printmaking for the next few months. It was a 6 month commitment that started September 1st. It was a rough start. Trying to treat painting as my boyfriend, forsaking other men, travel, printmaking, and everything else that has distracted me in the past. It was hard with my studio in my bedroom. So many things around the house to distract me. But this week I moved into a real studio, and have a real schedule. It feels great to have a studio space and to share it with a good friend and fellow painter. I'm also surrounded by other artists and musicians. The kitties really aren't that great at critiquing my work. <br />
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I'm hoping to lock down a commission piece in the next week or so and start working on that. It will make for good work in progress posts. I also have a series of portraits going and a large self portrait I'm working on too. <br />
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The cold nasty weather makes for a great painting season! Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-31417165929359068382012-10-07T15:37:00.001-07:002012-10-28T20:58:51.176-07:00Two Years and a Couple of TearsFriday October 5th marked my two year anniversary of being laid off. It's funny I still have nightmares about my exit interview. One day I'd like to tell the offending partner how unprofessional she was. But that's an entirely different train of thought.<br />
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The few weeks leading up to this day have been strange to say the least. So much so I didn't realize the day was approaching until the night before. Things like ultrasounds, biopsies, talking to ex's, other ex's having babies, talking about others careers or new job options, researching grad schools, painting, dates with men that have girlfriends they claim not to want, considering online dating, asking a dude out for a drink, panicking about my future, having strange people in my home, worrying about missing cats and sick family and friends. You know normal life stuff, but there are days when all these things happening at once feel just a bit overwhelming. And then when you add the pressure of social norms, and believe me they are out there, one might start to feel like a failure. But when I think about all the amazing things I've been privileged to do, people I've met, places and things I've seen. I know I am nothing close to being a failure. <br />
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Today I was put on the spot and had respond to those loaded questions such as: What are you doing now? Are you looking for a real job? Are you worried? It's nice to be confident in my answers and strong in knowing who I am and what I want right now. I may not know what I want in 5 months from now, but for now I know. I set the goal to paint for 6 months, not be distracted by work, men or travel. But as with any goal, no sooner have you set it do distractions start to come up. Or you create them.<br />
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Yes, I have legitimate panic about my future. But not every day. Most days I enjoy my life, freedom, painting, yoga, travel, reading, and of course pet sitting when I can. But having to cough up $420 for an ultrasound that turned out to be unnecessary caused some anxiety. Wondering how I was going to pay for a $700+ biopsy (thank you Oregon Breast and Cervical Program for under-insured low income woman over 40. Guess there is one benefit to being over 40) certainly caused more concern. Thankfully those results came back normal enough. <br />
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As with many of my posts, I'm not sure what the point is. That I'm happy to be unemployed, uninsured and scraping by on just paintings, prints and pet/house sitting? That goals are important? That I have great supportive friends and family to talk to when I need to whine about things? That thankfully my health is intact? That I have many furry friends too? That I have talent and inspiration? <br />
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I don't know. But what I do know and as I said earlier this week on Facebook, "<span class="userContent">It's true, I live a strange and interesting life, at times. And I'm never bored". I also really love a good run-on sentence!</span><br />
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<span class="userContent">I think one big lesson learned during the last two years is that it's my life, and I'm living it. My choices and my consequences. Doing the best I can with what I have, staying as true as possible to myself and hopefully giving something good back into the world as often as I can. </span><br />
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<span class="userContent">I'm sure I've quoted this before, and I'm sure I will again, but I leave you with this: </span><br />
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<b>“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” ― Mary Oliver </b>Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-6661071597843186472012-09-24T13:00:00.000-07:002012-09-24T13:00:18.841-07:00Almost Famous. Again. Almost. Sunset magazine October 2012 issue, page 22. Niche' a Wine & Art Bar, Vancouver, Wa.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvf2iDxwWlhJI4_9KnHbMhN25BWPYhrNhJkwbD2VOXmWod3q3aMFsDNz-NJg7_GGKFWE4hF7hwmhV-CPevkzXcTcrNPuQcx53EJy4PQU1pjrYKDA7r2t9Ph70HReSA9k37NDeB7pZjtNA/s1600/photo(16).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvf2iDxwWlhJI4_9KnHbMhN25BWPYhrNhJkwbD2VOXmWod3q3aMFsDNz-NJg7_GGKFWE4hF7hwmhV-CPevkzXcTcrNPuQcx53EJy4PQU1pjrYKDA7r2t9Ph70HReSA9k37NDeB7pZjtNA/s400/photo(16).JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
No mention of me, but still...Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-28837873000974249482012-09-24T09:13:00.002-07:002012-09-24T09:13:53.422-07:00Post #100! <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wl4y4RouUHzEzbaN9RniQ5NiQsZKuSQpKU9Uc9tXtQCyjVt2IR3ZZcgHAjGLQfLqofuu64Fadr83I-PvfkvgVb4ZrcjJOm5WhUpXV8PfaiN6YRPRc3-bnF-zmyHTCymlQIAthNFjGTI/s1600/darkangel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1wl4y4RouUHzEzbaN9RniQ5NiQsZKuSQpKU9Uc9tXtQCyjVt2IR3ZZcgHAjGLQfLqofuu64Fadr83I-PvfkvgVb4ZrcjJOm5WhUpXV8PfaiN6YRPRc3-bnF-zmyHTCymlQIAthNFjGTI/s320/darkangel.jpg" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4' x 4' oil on canvas</td></tr>
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For my 100th post I'm showing you a couple things I've been working on. I have a few other things in the works and am currently trying to find a studio. Painting in my bedroom isn't working out too well. Especially with the larger canvas sizes. I'm taking a break from printmaking and only focusing on painting. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXn6VQFr37vb5HzZINOy9-TonFywvTuXVg35BYTv57_I9OV-h3sYX59rqeV_MrOXq6sM72luHqlT8kgMqFEOy41LUzkhOz3Lf4A-zqCjhQI14DiTXNOhtTrvUHQM-JHT5MqqsSWueuh8/s1600/photo(20).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXn6VQFr37vb5HzZINOy9-TonFywvTuXVg35BYTv57_I9OV-h3sYX59rqeV_MrOXq6sM72luHqlT8kgMqFEOy41LUzkhOz3Lf4A-zqCjhQI14DiTXNOhtTrvUHQM-JHT5MqqsSWueuh8/s320/photo(20).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9 x 12 Quick study oil on panel</td></tr>
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<br />Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-72477382451293007182012-07-17T14:27:00.002-07:002012-07-17T14:27:31.345-07:00All the Voices and Choices<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQStUPgAHNZZfu1Iv2G8nG7n7uZDLFb99KIBQhx7PULfxb2xjkDk-Nl0Ui9xQCmyzxC17IBNekQy0d90vVM6Axz_DX4OeZPhnoLeXPDfhA7mLbbUhnaASwWsIgIQMfP33AjP_GiBdeas/s1600/P1000012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpQStUPgAHNZZfu1Iv2G8nG7n7uZDLFb99KIBQhx7PULfxb2xjkDk-Nl0Ui9xQCmyzxC17IBNekQy0d90vVM6Axz_DX4OeZPhnoLeXPDfhA7mLbbUhnaASwWsIgIQMfP33AjP_GiBdeas/s200/P1000012.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">not the painting that sold. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Last week I sold a painting, and took it as a sign that I was to spend the money to travel. Then all the exterior and some interior voices started again telling me to get a job and a few other things. It's funny how everyone judges so quickly that there are jobs to be had. Or should I say, jobs to be had by me. Or that I haven't been looking for a job. I will spare you the things people say to me or my other unemployed friends on a daily basis. (but I will beg you, that if you have an unemployed friend that you haven't seen for a while, please don't let the first thing out of your mouth be "so, do you have a job yet?". thanks.) <br /><br />
I waited tables in 1986. I don't drink coffee. I worked in a flyfishing warehouse 1987-1988. My extensive (bookstore, parts store, pharmacy, call centers, receptionist, admin assistant) customer service history doesn't even show on my one page resume since I started working when I was 12. I have a 5 year $50k professional degree and 7 years experience in the interior design field. Do you think I look good on paper to work for Starbucks, New Seasons or Whole Foods? How about Zoom Care or Mercy Corp? How about the outbound call center 20 miles away that pays $9 to set appointments? I'm competing with kids who have been waiting tables through high school and college, with coffee snobs, with people who have masters degrees in social service and with hundreds of other misplaced architects, designers, drafters and want-to-be-such college interns. I'm not strong enough to work in the woods. I might be able to fight fires. <br />
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I can count on one hand the number of jobs my degree qualifies me for in the last year and a half I've seen posted. I have been fortunate enough to hear of some through the grapevine. I've had three interviews. One second interview. One thank you but we selected someone else. This only counts the "design jobs". Out of the other places I've applied to, only New Seasons had the respect to let me know they selected someone else and that I wouldn't be called in for an interview. <br />
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Here's an example of someone who is obviously more organized than I am in record keeping. Keep in mind we have the same degree and similar over all experience. <br />
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In her own words <i>"i started looking for a full-time job in portland last fall. i
sent my very first resume/CV in mid-October. i didn't get anything (not
even an interview) so in December i took a long extended christmas vacation with
family. when i returned to PDX in january i started looking again in earnest.
In early March I shifted my search to looking for part-time work, as I
was offered a halftime position at my church." </i> <br />
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<b>Total places applied to (FT and PT): 52</b>. Some places multiple times, a la Whole Foods, McMenamin's. <br /><b>Total
number of first interviews: 5</b>; a yogurt shop, West Elm, Macy's, Jimmy
John's, Moonstruck Chocolate (3 of the 5 were *group interviews)<br />
<b>Total number of second interviews: 2</b>; West Elm, Moonstruck Chocolate<br />
<b><br />Total number of personalized hand-written thank you notes received after submitting my application: 1</b>; <span style="color: red;">Sisters of the Road (Side note from Serena - If you are looking to donate to a great non profit, here's more proof!) </span><br /><b>Total
number of jobs offered that I declined: 1</b>; Jimmy John's bike delivery
driver. The hours they offered conflicted with my existing halftime job.<br />
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So, maybe the painting that sold isn't a sign to get my TEFL certificate(though I am planning on it) to, travel or apply for every job I'd hate doing, but rather that I need to bust out more paintings and apply for jobs I'd enjoy. And just ignore the rest of the world who seems to have an opinion about what it is I should be doing? Yes, I'm venting. Yes, I'm trying to figure things out. Yes, I've been crying all day. :) and this doesn't help with money or the house, but it might provide some much needed piece-of-mind in the decision making arena. <br />
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*For those of you who haven't interview as of late, the new thing to
save companies money is a "group interview". This means that you show
up to your interview with 6-12 other applicants and sit in a group and
go around the table answering the exact same questions. Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-30427997011519813192012-06-26T22:04:00.001-07:002012-06-27T13:04:01.314-07:00A Return to Reality?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCZ8Ko4y416fW91TPKRbNG0zbrNc6RUCiix5iYLFErbsuLdRr-DhdVP6EQW8uwVOPGV_e2U_BREGAKvSew2T4uLEOL-iu8uVrnKU50dqZn9UR7Fu6nnQ00zz_8g2uyZEg9NmWpXJQgm0/s1600/DSCF1487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOCZ8Ko4y416fW91TPKRbNG0zbrNc6RUCiix5iYLFErbsuLdRr-DhdVP6EQW8uwVOPGV_e2U_BREGAKvSew2T4uLEOL-iu8uVrnKU50dqZn9UR7Fu6nnQ00zz_8g2uyZEg9NmWpXJQgm0/s320/DSCF1487.JPG" width="320" /></a>I've been out of work long enough to no longer have an idea of what reality is.<br />
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Summer is here but I don't see it or feel it. I'm cold, tired and feeling pretty frustrated with things. Myself included. I'm hoping to paint tomorrow with my long lost best painting friend in hopes that will snap me out of this little funk.<br />
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But in the meantime I'll dream of sun, art and a life less complicated than the one here.Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-60515924308619109992012-03-10T05:15:00.001-08:002012-03-13T07:16:49.583-07:00Pain and Paint<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDNv4z8nPMET7_tbT7r8Q-ioJwdIaaEgicb41d_fmoJtMimUZBWuWaaLC2dGmqXMZD7gnbnFbVpyEulqqOlpqrggVfBmM5xaAvQ8AoRUPhIsoiTu3IAmL0puFf-QEkUokzLB6iMQlMU0/s1600/photo(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDNv4z8nPMET7_tbT7r8Q-ioJwdIaaEgicb41d_fmoJtMimUZBWuWaaLC2dGmqXMZD7gnbnFbVpyEulqqOlpqrggVfBmM5xaAvQ8AoRUPhIsoiTu3IAmL0puFf-QEkUokzLB6iMQlMU0/s320/photo(4).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Johns bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The last 5 months have been pretty interesting to say the least. I've been doing more painting than printmaking, which isn't saying too much. I think I fell in love. Or maybe I was in love with the idea of it. But this week I discovered that everything was a lie. Or at least it seems like that now. So in the time of heartache and confusion I will use the best self therapy I know. Art!<br />
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The one good thing about being older and having lived through other heartbreak, I know the pain is temporary. I know I have learned some things. My trust level might have dropped back to the floor and I'll probably return to my jaded anti love self. But that's fine. At least for now. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tibo_elF0NKJsZd_ZKnnkXIamMdaYrth_HUGBX3DCGkjwYYYEOzOUWsNaRBcqU2SLYdgeTTlxVajMhMTjf9KCDqMZI2UILw3Jl66J-VlzFBApuzpTfHsXVO9G_xgD6xlrOQSozXfaHA/s1600/photo(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tibo_elF0NKJsZd_ZKnnkXIamMdaYrth_HUGBX3DCGkjwYYYEOzOUWsNaRBcqU2SLYdgeTTlxVajMhMTjf9KCDqMZI2UILw3Jl66J-VlzFBApuzpTfHsXVO9G_xgD6xlrOQSozXfaHA/s320/photo(3).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puerto Jimenez casa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Here's somethings I painted recently. I couldn't leave you with out some photos!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsDh11KK4m6S9tNVGSuovYO5s-T6hL76gDhFhrs7BBQNyKkNogkK1Z1KhCLPm19_ESXlrlphAezMSZkTGyw-t6CCYXH6xPqn79Ral3GpP3CiEU77QWf6Zh6yGhYTPxwuPsMh8fI-DhSQ/s1600/DSCF0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsDh11KK4m6S9tNVGSuovYO5s-T6hL76gDhFhrs7BBQNyKkNogkK1Z1KhCLPm19_ESXlrlphAezMSZkTGyw-t6CCYXH6xPqn79Ral3GpP3CiEU77QWf6Zh6yGhYTPxwuPsMh8fI-DhSQ/s320/DSCF0169.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first plein air painting</td></tr>
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Here's a question for all you artist! Can you call a painting of yourself from a photo a self portrait? I personally think you can't. Thoughts? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TOdBoa1YPhrw65FyeQPxGTNE7YCTQglpfdV2hUDS_caWYb8aRabc3cm6EUtSzDJS_P8DH90tMlcM7OfNOWD9dMtjnvX4XanMd1y-2a6OPwPiyLXnmX5n-fLtqk32qeFn0DQnsAAoku4/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TOdBoa1YPhrw65FyeQPxGTNE7YCTQglpfdV2hUDS_caWYb8aRabc3cm6EUtSzDJS_P8DH90tMlcM7OfNOWD9dMtjnvX4XanMd1y-2a6OPwPiyLXnmX5n-fLtqk32qeFn0DQnsAAoku4/s320/photo(5).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> in progress from photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-12229622768019214862012-01-02T10:28:00.000-08:002012-01-02T10:28:57.898-08:00Happy 2012!Wishing you Love, Happiness, Art and Adventure! <br />
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Here's a little inspiration! I may not agree with all of his philosophies but I felt like it makes a good point of practicing the craft! What ever your art form may be, practice and craftsmanship is always important!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/1590621?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0&color=cfcfcf" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/1590621">Edward B. Gordon - on iNCONTEXT.TV</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/dutch">dutch rall</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-37096977918538460042011-12-12T21:51:00.000-08:002011-12-12T21:51:17.761-08:00Brrrr!I'm still trying to get acclimated to the colder temperatures since I've been back. Catching a cold didn't help. <br />
BikeCraft was a success! I've just updated my Etsy store (use coupon code: facebook for 15% off) and I'm trying to organize my life and thoughts. <br />
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You'd think that after one year of unemployment I'd have figure out what to do with my life. Or found a job I like. I'm not sure which is more difficult. I do know I need to clear out the more clutter from my house and sell more unnecessary items. But I'm really missing my paint brush! <br />
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Looking forward for the new painting action! New household organization and some hot toddies! :)Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-81602580479440421532011-12-02T10:26:00.000-08:002011-12-02T10:26:31.195-08:00Back in BlackTo quote the classic AC/DC:<br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_1">Back in black</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_1"></span><span class="line line-s" id="line_2">I hit the sack</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_2"></span><span class="line line-s" id="line_3">I've been too long</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_3"> I'm glad to be back</span> <span class="line line-s" id="line_4"> </span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_4">Yes I'm, let loose</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_4"></span><span class="line line-s" id="line_5">From the noose</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_5"></span><span class="line line-s" id="line_6">That's kept me hanging about</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_6"></span><span class="line line-s" id="line_7">I keep looking at the sky</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_8">'Cause it's gettin' me high</span> <span class="line line-s" id="line_9"> </span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_9">Forget the herse 'cause </span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_9">I'll never die</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_10">I got nine lives</span><br />
<span class="line line-s" id="line_11">Cat's eyes</span><br />
<span class="line line-s hover" id="line_12">Usin' every one of them and running wild</span>"<br />
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Ok, that might not exactly describe me or what I've been up to, but I am back in Portland. I've had 6.5 weeks of adventure. And as the German expat I met on the dock told me, sometimes adventure is difficult. But totally worth it. <br />
<br />
But now I'm back in the "reality" of unemployment ( year one, month 1, day 29) and I really need to make some real life decisions. {side note: I can NOT believe how fast time has flown by!}<br />
<br />
And before you ask, yes, I have been applying for jobs in my field, yes, I did apply for jobs while I was away. Yes I did apply for an awesome job this morning. The autoresponse I recieved said this:<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><strong>**We regret that due to the high volume of applications we receive, we currently only contact applicants who are highly qualified and most closely match our job requirements. Again, thank you for submitting your application.**</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong> </strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">While away I taught English as a second language for part of my trip. I absolutely loved it. Prior to that I did indeed apply for the Peace Corp to teach English, but that application process takes at least 1 year. That also would not really solve the problem of this house. This house has become a burden. Every month I make my mortgage payment I wonder if it should be the last month. I can't sell it, as the value has dropped 50K+ below what I owe. I can't rent the entire house to cover the monthly payment. So I've moved into the garage and have rented out the two bedrooms. I share the garage with one of my roommates bike repair shop, the washer, dryer, furnace, freezer, hot water tank and kitty littler boxes. It's interesting. :) </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Where am I going with this? I wish I knew! I guess I just wanted to say hello and to let you know I did not get eaten by a puma while away. Tomorrow and Sunday I will be selling prints at BikeCraft and need to get ready! </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">I leave you with this photo from my trip! </span></strong></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ypXmRHiKb303Wqb5grwo-u8txWlEQHVAxUBRgBWkUjK0FR2pt7ysf9uUohHT3EarXIVNxJ6msThoqwjYCFcuudX0doPtFVTeA1T6hCI9Qt5CVGlMsdszdG4AE7jOYbXjRAFgxwipyw0/s1600/390409_10150441355333223_677083222_10080675_2131587730_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ypXmRHiKb303Wqb5grwo-u8txWlEQHVAxUBRgBWkUjK0FR2pt7ysf9uUohHT3EarXIVNxJ6msThoqwjYCFcuudX0doPtFVTeA1T6hCI9Qt5CVGlMsdszdG4AE7jOYbXjRAFgxwipyw0/s400/390409_10150441355333223_677083222_10080675_2131587730_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I was trying to pry this Spider Monkey off of my, while it was biting. No broken skin thank the kitties!</td></tr>
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</div>Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-8775163347387490202011-09-26T11:45:00.000-07:002011-09-26T11:48:34.343-07:00Summer is Over?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipY76vfYLSGI_KeLoTW1NMB22FhNvGpF8CrTOXYwvpnjCXyi-GrOSZiQqyxXA-CrY0zIbpjivYiG7djEfJPic0NJgcUhN1Y2bHw-Rdz1k04igA-4F-fZDcKcqxSUQDbJyijaRNEQWoPoY/s1600/Villa+Tucan+Tango.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipY76vfYLSGI_KeLoTW1NMB22FhNvGpF8CrTOXYwvpnjCXyi-GrOSZiQqyxXA-CrY0zIbpjivYiG7djEfJPic0NJgcUhN1Y2bHw-Rdz1k04igA-4F-fZDcKcqxSUQDbJyijaRNEQWoPoY/s320/Villa+Tucan+Tango.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuLmiTwfY3rf2P9PTiCdr-CJBsU5voWJ2AMPEfPXArKg9yurnTzvDuHJAEiJk2CXPG6awVtn1J65Xy8nH14I7YjHaJmUKupM1uLnBpYER7iHT44U-LFTCZgQsXA-v1hxJnaYqpfdr-0w/s1600/Villa+Tucan+Tango2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuLmiTwfY3rf2P9PTiCdr-CJBsU5voWJ2AMPEfPXArKg9yurnTzvDuHJAEiJk2CXPG6awVtn1J65Xy8nH14I7YjHaJmUKupM1uLnBpYER7iHT44U-LFTCZgQsXA-v1hxJnaYqpfdr-0w/s320/Villa+Tucan+Tango2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Well, it is for a few days anyway. I'll be fleeing the country in 17days! I'm headed to Central America! All part of my mid-life crisis. Number 3 as far as I can tell. The current crisis always seems to be the worst one. <br />
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I haven't turned my back on the art dream, just needed a break from it. I really enjoyed summer! Swimming, camping, beaching and spending as many hours as possible absorbing as much vitamin d as I could.<br />
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And now, fall clean up, packing, and planning for the future will ensue! Who knows what the future will bring. Plus the future never gets here. We only have today. So let's live it while we can!<br />
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xo!Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-83363914472341407232011-08-18T07:02:00.000-07:002011-08-18T07:02:12.973-07:00Thank you I Heart Art / Etsy and DWR!!Had a lovely time last night at the I heart art mixer match! Thank you to everyone who made it awesome!!!<br />
Here's some info about it! <br />
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http://www.oregonlive.com/art/index.ssf/2011/08/i_heart_art_the_portland_mixer.html<br />
http://iheartartpdx.com/mixer-match/<br />
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Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-5442518446033544762011-08-01T21:02:00.001-07:002011-08-01T21:02:29.687-07:00Some Summer!August is jam-packed with summer goodness! I'll check back as I can, but I really need to have some good old fashioned summer fun! <br />
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Happy summer! Happy creating!Serenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06686581540234274954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3711827777731554332.post-43920829240976824512011-07-22T12:48:00.000-07:002011-07-22T12:48:54.796-07:00Starving Artist Sale! Make me an offer!!And I really do mean make me an offer. Everyone has a price in their head for what they'd like to pay for something they like. So, tell me what that is! I'm sure we can work it out! Check out the link! <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150319093923223.385848.677083222"> Starving Artist Sale! </a><br />
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Send me a message if you are interested and the price you'd like to pay for one! Nothing will offend me! :) Serena@almostmonday.com <br />
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Thanks! Oh and happy Friday!!!<br />
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