HAPPY BIRTHDAY

I just looked at the date and realized today is my half birthday!
Happy Half-Birthday to me!!

Art is Life!

I adore this painting. The little image in the sideline just didn't do it justice so I had to post it here too. This painting by Mariano (or Maria) Jose Fortuny y Carbo of his children in the Japanese Salon exquisitely captures the luxurious textures of the room with out neglecting the precious moments of childhood. I love it, love it, love it.

As a side note, I am working on developing a few art tours and tutorials and will be posting little art reviews from time to time. If there are any artists or periods you love or would like to learn more about let me know. I would love your suggestions!

Spark

My blog is in desperate need of renovation. It is looking sad and tired these days. If you have any suggestions that will spark my imagination PLEASE send them my way.

Red Hot Spot

I am not much of an online shopper - my sister got those genes - but every once in awhile I come across something cool on my very own. My latest find is like a world wide web hidden treasure -The Red Hot Shop by Target. Every month Target features very unique fun items in this specialty shop. They have things you wouldn't normally think you would find at Target - things you wouldn't think you could purchase anywhere.

My favorite find this month:

The Charlie Brown Lemonade/Advise booth.

I need one of these!

Bouquets of Freshly Sharpend Pencils

About a week ago my aunt Katie announced her engagement to Dave Briggs. A soon as I heard the news I volunteered my help. Katie may be getting more help than she bargained for. This morning, as I was doing some "research" I came a cross a wedding held at the Atwood Ranch in Glenn Allen, CA. It made me decide if I got married in the fall I would have bouquets of freshly sharpened pencils for my wedding favors.