Hub and I, Nerf Gun style
My hub, son and two daughters, with Craig the boyfriend
My girlies and I. They've both gone blonde for xmas, totally freaking me out because they just turned up like this with no warning :-)
Sunday, 25 December 2011
Merry Christmas
Odd to write an update on the biggest holiday of the year, i know, but we've had a simply wonderful time and we're all chilling out now. The kids descdended upon us for prezzies, food and festivities, wallowing in some lovely time together for the first time in ages. What a splendid day!
Hub and I, Nerf Gun style
My hub, son and two daughters, with Craig the boyfriend
My girlies and I. They've both gone blonde for xmas, totally freaking me out because they just turned up like this with no warning :-)
Hub and I, Nerf Gun style
My hub, son and two daughters, with Craig the boyfriend
My girlies and I. They've both gone blonde for xmas, totally freaking me out because they just turned up like this with no warning :-)
Tuesday, 20 December 2011
Here I Am Again
It's Tuesday again and I'm (joyously) at home. Similar to last week however, I have things I need to do. I'm stopping the devil making work for my idle hands just now by writing this as the floor is drying. Yes, I've been a hive of industry, which is necessary in order to get us ready for xmas. The house is ghastly, or rather it was until I set about it with a myriad of cleaning products today.
On a rather dour note, I have zero time off to spend with my lovely family. Just the 25th itself to be precise. I could whitter on about that ad infinitum but I shall refrain. One of the things I've been doing today is looking for a new job, and it's been fairly productive with several phonecalls received and one definite CV put forward by an agency to a local company. Cross your fingers, toes and moustaches for me please.
In my tidying frenzy I have come across several unfinished bits and pieces of paintings, some of which I will try to complete over the next few weeks, as they have a glimmer of hopefulness about them. I am also very excited with the knowledge that santa is bringing me a whole load of lino printing materials and tools, all ready for my next adventure in the new year.
Speaking of new year, I really must pat myself on the back. My intention last January was to get back into doing creative work, and looking back over the past year I can't help but be pleased with the huge progress I've made. I've got a whole portfolio full of paintings here that I'm really quite pleased with, not to mention the 50 plus pieces that have sold. I guess I can call myself a professional artist now, eh?
It was shaky at first, but it was going to be, wasn't it? With the support of other people in a similar position I have grown in confidence, producing (among other things) a few pieces that I don't think I'll ever be able to part with. I also got the courage together to promote myself, which was one of my biggest hurdles. Nowadays I'm quite blasé about showing my work off, having shed my shyness and worry that people will think it's rubbish. I imagine plenty of folks do think that, but it honestly doesn't bother me at all. I'm thoroughly enjoying doing what I do and it makes my life so much richer. All in all a wonderful place to be.
There's still stuff to be done around the place, namely my dreadfully messy bedroom, so I'm off to tackle that before my beloved returns home form the hill, so to speak. I hope to be back soon with new paintings and wonderful news of pastures anew. Come on santa, get your act together and bring me a lovely new job!
On a rather dour note, I have zero time off to spend with my lovely family. Just the 25th itself to be precise. I could whitter on about that ad infinitum but I shall refrain. One of the things I've been doing today is looking for a new job, and it's been fairly productive with several phonecalls received and one definite CV put forward by an agency to a local company. Cross your fingers, toes and moustaches for me please.
In my tidying frenzy I have come across several unfinished bits and pieces of paintings, some of which I will try to complete over the next few weeks, as they have a glimmer of hopefulness about them. I am also very excited with the knowledge that santa is bringing me a whole load of lino printing materials and tools, all ready for my next adventure in the new year.
Speaking of new year, I really must pat myself on the back. My intention last January was to get back into doing creative work, and looking back over the past year I can't help but be pleased with the huge progress I've made. I've got a whole portfolio full of paintings here that I'm really quite pleased with, not to mention the 50 plus pieces that have sold. I guess I can call myself a professional artist now, eh?
It was shaky at first, but it was going to be, wasn't it? With the support of other people in a similar position I have grown in confidence, producing (among other things) a few pieces that I don't think I'll ever be able to part with. I also got the courage together to promote myself, which was one of my biggest hurdles. Nowadays I'm quite blasé about showing my work off, having shed my shyness and worry that people will think it's rubbish. I imagine plenty of folks do think that, but it honestly doesn't bother me at all. I'm thoroughly enjoying doing what I do and it makes my life so much richer. All in all a wonderful place to be.
There's still stuff to be done around the place, namely my dreadfully messy bedroom, so I'm off to tackle that before my beloved returns home form the hill, so to speak. I hope to be back soon with new paintings and wonderful news of pastures anew. Come on santa, get your act together and bring me a lovely new job!
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Latest Work
Have I really not spoken to the world since my birthday blog? Good gracious. I stand ashamed with head hanging, or at least metaphorically, since I can't type like that. Sheesh!
Tine for a brief update then. I'd stay longer and kick back with you guys, but dinner's in the oven and my poor husband who's lived on cupboard surprise for weeks deserves a nice meal for once.
Work has been diabolical, which is the main reason for my absence. I shan't be a bore and give the numbing details, suffice to say I've been something on the far side of busy and stressed for ages.
On my days off I've been concentrating on doing as much painting and whatnot as possible. I stand by my opinion that this is what keeps me relatively sane. Oh and hub's great support of course, which cannot go unmentioned.
Things I have produced are
Yes, I've ventured back into the ACEO world, which I must say has been very useful in arranging my thoughts and getting ideas down on paper. A few have even sold, though online sales have been very poor. On the other hand, I've had a fair bit of success selling in the real world with a steady trickle of commissions coming in this past month.
We had a little trip to Scotland a week or so ago, which rejuvenated me. It was my first time off since July and a well earned couple of days, despite being called into work on the third day of my hols to cover for people who hadn't turned in. I ogled the landscape all the way, loving the trees and dramatic skies through the Lake District and beyond. My work is firmly entrenched in the natural world just now, so it was like a huge research field trip.
Finally, I've been attacking the photos of the lilies from summer. I knew it was worthwhile hanging onto those, and I'm using them as a basis for my current project. Last week I painted a single bloom and today I've done a group of three, although I can't photograph it now because there's zero daylight to help me. I have a new camera too, joy of joys. I heart it very much.
Here's the lily, along with a few others. The Japanese blossom ones have proven very popular, four of them have sold this past week, two of which I got a crazy amount of money for. I feel all proper artist-like now.
Tine for a brief update then. I'd stay longer and kick back with you guys, but dinner's in the oven and my poor husband who's lived on cupboard surprise for weeks deserves a nice meal for once.
Work has been diabolical, which is the main reason for my absence. I shan't be a bore and give the numbing details, suffice to say I've been something on the far side of busy and stressed for ages.
On my days off I've been concentrating on doing as much painting and whatnot as possible. I stand by my opinion that this is what keeps me relatively sane. Oh and hub's great support of course, which cannot go unmentioned.
Things I have produced are
Yes, I've ventured back into the ACEO world, which I must say has been very useful in arranging my thoughts and getting ideas down on paper. A few have even sold, though online sales have been very poor. On the other hand, I've had a fair bit of success selling in the real world with a steady trickle of commissions coming in this past month.
We had a little trip to Scotland a week or so ago, which rejuvenated me. It was my first time off since July and a well earned couple of days, despite being called into work on the third day of my hols to cover for people who hadn't turned in. I ogled the landscape all the way, loving the trees and dramatic skies through the Lake District and beyond. My work is firmly entrenched in the natural world just now, so it was like a huge research field trip.
Finally, I've been attacking the photos of the lilies from summer. I knew it was worthwhile hanging onto those, and I'm using them as a basis for my current project. Last week I painted a single bloom and today I've done a group of three, although I can't photograph it now because there's zero daylight to help me. I have a new camera too, joy of joys. I heart it very much.
Here's the lily, along with a few others. The Japanese blossom ones have proven very popular, four of them have sold this past week, two of which I got a crazy amount of money for. I feel all proper artist-like now.
Tuesday, 4 October 2011
I Had a Birthday
I turned a further forty-something last week. Try as I might, they wouldn't let me have the day off work, so I took cakes in and was determined to enjoy my day anyway. The office had other ideas however, and I had one of my worst every days so far in there. The job is still hanging in the balance in as much as I'm not sure I'll be staying. I've been there for over two months now, working from 8am and am yet to have a lunch break, a thank you for staying late every night or any acknowledgement of anything I've done. Anyway, enough of that.
I went for a meal with my beloved and two of the girls from work on my birthday night. We had a really lovely time, which set me up for the next morning (a Saturday) and my special day out with treats. First was the pumpkin farm, where there have been a lot of changes since last year. There's now a café and shop, so we breakfasted there. The owner has asked me to go along on Halloween weekend to carve pumpkins and show some of my own off. That will be splendid.
Next we went off to Liverpool and did a bit of shopping, The King's Regiment marched through the main road while we were there, band playing and everything. There was lots going on all day with music and street performers. We went to the Blue Coat Gallery for a mooch and happened upon a jewellery shop where Jay got me a heart necklace. I bought him a pen from another shop and we got chatting to the owner, who has asked me to email him to discuss stocking my paintings. That's a stroke of good fortune! I need to get down to some more painting soon really. I've had so many other committments recently for other people that my own work has taken a back seat. I'm not complaining of course - I'm still being creative and that's what makes me tick.
I've been working for weeks on my latest project and this evening sees it completed. Here are my two demon masks to be used in a series of performances next week.
I've worked really hard on these and spent every spare minute doing them so I could meet the deadline. I've done it by the skin of my teeth! I've also got a lovely new camera and this is my first time using it to photograph my work. I'm ever so pleased with it. One good thing about having a job again is that I can get the occasional thing like this. I've been wanting a decent camera for years, so this is especially awesome.
Another birthday prezzie was a mount cutter. A weird one in the grand scheme of things, but it means I can now paint in any format I like and create a mount that will fit a standard frame. This is loads of scope and very exciting. I do love unusual formats, so I'll be experimenting with it a lot. I'll also be able to make little mounts for my ACEOs, which may be useful when selling them. Then there's the fact that mount board comes in a gazillion different colours. What joy!
I've made a meal this evening for the first time in months. Jay has been on cooking duty for ages, so I did a nice chilli. After that we set to and had loud music while we cleaned up the most dreadful mess I've made round here. The dining table is now free of gloop and my desk here has a few more square inches of space for moving about on. It feels quite luxurious. I'm more than ready for bed now, so I'll quit my whittering and be off for a well earned sleep. I hope to be back soon with lots more lovely new stuff.
I went for a meal with my beloved and two of the girls from work on my birthday night. We had a really lovely time, which set me up for the next morning (a Saturday) and my special day out with treats. First was the pumpkin farm, where there have been a lot of changes since last year. There's now a café and shop, so we breakfasted there. The owner has asked me to go along on Halloween weekend to carve pumpkins and show some of my own off. That will be splendid.
Next we went off to Liverpool and did a bit of shopping, The King's Regiment marched through the main road while we were there, band playing and everything. There was lots going on all day with music and street performers. We went to the Blue Coat Gallery for a mooch and happened upon a jewellery shop where Jay got me a heart necklace. I bought him a pen from another shop and we got chatting to the owner, who has asked me to email him to discuss stocking my paintings. That's a stroke of good fortune! I need to get down to some more painting soon really. I've had so many other committments recently for other people that my own work has taken a back seat. I'm not complaining of course - I'm still being creative and that's what makes me tick.
I've been working for weeks on my latest project and this evening sees it completed. Here are my two demon masks to be used in a series of performances next week.
I've worked really hard on these and spent every spare minute doing them so I could meet the deadline. I've done it by the skin of my teeth! I've also got a lovely new camera and this is my first time using it to photograph my work. I'm ever so pleased with it. One good thing about having a job again is that I can get the occasional thing like this. I've been wanting a decent camera for years, so this is especially awesome.
Another birthday prezzie was a mount cutter. A weird one in the grand scheme of things, but it means I can now paint in any format I like and create a mount that will fit a standard frame. This is loads of scope and very exciting. I do love unusual formats, so I'll be experimenting with it a lot. I'll also be able to make little mounts for my ACEOs, which may be useful when selling them. Then there's the fact that mount board comes in a gazillion different colours. What joy!
I've made a meal this evening for the first time in months. Jay has been on cooking duty for ages, so I did a nice chilli. After that we set to and had loud music while we cleaned up the most dreadful mess I've made round here. The dining table is now free of gloop and my desk here has a few more square inches of space for moving about on. It feels quite luxurious. I'm more than ready for bed now, so I'll quit my whittering and be off for a well earned sleep. I hope to be back soon with lots more lovely new stuff.
Tuesday, 20 September 2011
Lots Happening In These Parts
I feel like I haven't had a breather for weeks!
Last Tuesday on my day off I was whisked away for a day out in Blackpool. We love going there off-season when the weather's stormy and there are no tourists. There's quite a macabre feel to a deserted holiday town in the Autumn. It was incredibly stormy and the sea was roaring up and over the protective wall that backs onto the promenade. I was a silly head (what's new?) in getting as close as I could to take photos and videos. The spray was painful, being filled with sand that had been sucked up by the wind. It was all very exciting! Later in the day when the tide had gone out there were huge tree trunks and rocks deposited right up at the top of the steps. It's hard to get your head around the power of the sea until you come across such things. We walked for miles against the wind and got a serious workout. I must be thin by now, surely? Anyway, what a splendid way to spend our wedding anniversary. It was the perfect day.
Work has been a rollercoaster since I last spoke. See what I did there, keeping the Blackpool theme going? I've had some really good days and some horrifically stressed ones. We're short staffed with folks being on holiday and off sick, so it's been down to as little of three of us doing the work of six or seven. This is all well and good on days where things run smoothly, but as soon as a couple of problems arise it becomes frantic. I've dealt with it at times, but the stress that makes my teeth fizz has also appeared, which coupled with the fact that we never get a break (apart from the occasional dash outside for a theraputic cigarette) serves to make for arduous days indeed. I'm told I'll be changing roles at the start of October, taking on more responsibility in looking after the sales team and their progress. This should put me more in the eye of the storm than in the current swirling mass of chaos, so I'm happy to take on the challenge. Goodness knows I could do with a settled position where I know my duties and can have time to perform them well.
Art stuff? Well, I got the Games Workshop commission finished. They wanted a banner to attach to a standard to be carried on Games Day at the Birmingham NEC, which is next weekend. For those not in the know about such things, it was for a faction called "Nurgle", which are revolting monster type things covered in diseased skin and all that. Naturally they wanted something grotesque and I came up with this little creation, which has been well received. I look forward to hearing how it goes on the day.
Today I have some painting to do and I'll be popping out for a very civilised lunch with someone from work. I'm enjoying the peace and quiet right now though, before I get motoring.
Oh, and I must mention my glee at being a featured seller on Folksy! They put me on the front page yesterday, as well as posting an interview with me on their blog. How exciting is that? I never thought for a moment that I'd be on there, so this is such a treat. The link is here for anyone who fancies a quick read:
Me on Folksy
Finally, a quick word on the auction I ran for Monika, as explained quickly in my last blog. I decided to put three paintings up for people to bid on, and with that and some very kind donations I've been able to send a total of £56.00 towards the costs of flights and childcare. I can't describe how happy I am to have been able to do this for someone in such need. I'd have sent her what I could personally manage, but to be able to add to that is just wonderful. People are so kind; it doesn't half restore my faith in humankind to receive such support. Also to those who offered their kind wishes because they didn't have anything else to give - a massive thank you. It all means such a lot.
Despite my love of waffling, I must get on and do some work. Have a lovely day everyone, and ignore the rain, it may go away if we don't pay it any attention.
Last Tuesday on my day off I was whisked away for a day out in Blackpool. We love going there off-season when the weather's stormy and there are no tourists. There's quite a macabre feel to a deserted holiday town in the Autumn. It was incredibly stormy and the sea was roaring up and over the protective wall that backs onto the promenade. I was a silly head (what's new?) in getting as close as I could to take photos and videos. The spray was painful, being filled with sand that had been sucked up by the wind. It was all very exciting! Later in the day when the tide had gone out there were huge tree trunks and rocks deposited right up at the top of the steps. It's hard to get your head around the power of the sea until you come across such things. We walked for miles against the wind and got a serious workout. I must be thin by now, surely? Anyway, what a splendid way to spend our wedding anniversary. It was the perfect day.
Work has been a rollercoaster since I last spoke. See what I did there, keeping the Blackpool theme going? I've had some really good days and some horrifically stressed ones. We're short staffed with folks being on holiday and off sick, so it's been down to as little of three of us doing the work of six or seven. This is all well and good on days where things run smoothly, but as soon as a couple of problems arise it becomes frantic. I've dealt with it at times, but the stress that makes my teeth fizz has also appeared, which coupled with the fact that we never get a break (apart from the occasional dash outside for a theraputic cigarette) serves to make for arduous days indeed. I'm told I'll be changing roles at the start of October, taking on more responsibility in looking after the sales team and their progress. This should put me more in the eye of the storm than in the current swirling mass of chaos, so I'm happy to take on the challenge. Goodness knows I could do with a settled position where I know my duties and can have time to perform them well.
Art stuff? Well, I got the Games Workshop commission finished. They wanted a banner to attach to a standard to be carried on Games Day at the Birmingham NEC, which is next weekend. For those not in the know about such things, it was for a faction called "Nurgle", which are revolting monster type things covered in diseased skin and all that. Naturally they wanted something grotesque and I came up with this little creation, which has been well received. I look forward to hearing how it goes on the day.
Today I have some painting to do and I'll be popping out for a very civilised lunch with someone from work. I'm enjoying the peace and quiet right now though, before I get motoring.
Oh, and I must mention my glee at being a featured seller on Folksy! They put me on the front page yesterday, as well as posting an interview with me on their blog. How exciting is that? I never thought for a moment that I'd be on there, so this is such a treat. The link is here for anyone who fancies a quick read:
Me on Folksy
Finally, a quick word on the auction I ran for Monika, as explained quickly in my last blog. I decided to put three paintings up for people to bid on, and with that and some very kind donations I've been able to send a total of £56.00 towards the costs of flights and childcare. I can't describe how happy I am to have been able to do this for someone in such need. I'd have sent her what I could personally manage, but to be able to add to that is just wonderful. People are so kind; it doesn't half restore my faith in humankind to receive such support. Also to those who offered their kind wishes because they didn't have anything else to give - a massive thank you. It all means such a lot.
Despite my love of waffling, I must get on and do some work. Have a lovely day everyone, and ignore the rain, it may go away if we don't pay it any attention.
Sunday, 18 September 2011
A Friend in Need
I don't usually do anything like this, but a fellow Folksy seller is in great need. I am going to hold a charity auction of one of my paintings and I would urge anyone who might be interested to please make a bid. I'll do this tomorrow so I can get any resulting funds to the lady in question as soon as possible. Please read the post below that she made on the forum.
Also, if anybody can help out in any way please let me know, or contact Monika direct. It's worth noting that she is offering 50% off anything in her shop using the code "mama" at the checkout. Her work is absolutely stunning and the results of a true artisan.
"Hi everyone,
My name is Monika and firstly few words about me.
I was born in Poland and for past few years I have been living in beautiful Scotland with my husband and two fantastic kids Alicia (6) and Philip (1). Here I run my little business.
Today I receive news my mum died. I would love to go to Poland to help my dad in this difficult situation – unfortunately I cannot afford it.
Yesterday I organized “End of Summer Sale” in my Folksy shop – but yesterday everything was fine.
Today is completely different day – I quickly need to buy tickets to flay to Poland, pay for childcare during my absence.
Instead of reorganizing everything in my shops I thought the best way is if you make me an offer on items you would like to purchase.
I have two shops on Folksy:
Exclusive silver jewellery made in wire-wrapping technique:
http://www.folksy.com/shops/Reverie
Wedding jewellery and accessories:
http://www.folksy.com/shops/BiancabyReverie
All your help is very appreciated
Sincerely yours
Monika
my blog: www.reverie-art.blogspot.com "
Also, if anybody can help out in any way please let me know, or contact Monika direct. It's worth noting that she is offering 50% off anything in her shop using the code "mama" at the checkout. Her work is absolutely stunning and the results of a true artisan.
"Hi everyone,
My name is Monika and firstly few words about me.
I was born in Poland and for past few years I have been living in beautiful Scotland with my husband and two fantastic kids Alicia (6) and Philip (1). Here I run my little business.
Today I receive news my mum died. I would love to go to Poland to help my dad in this difficult situation – unfortunately I cannot afford it.
Yesterday I organized “End of Summer Sale” in my Folksy shop – but yesterday everything was fine.
Today is completely different day – I quickly need to buy tickets to flay to Poland, pay for childcare during my absence.
Instead of reorganizing everything in my shops I thought the best way is if you make me an offer on items you would like to purchase.
I have two shops on Folksy:
Exclusive silver jewellery made in wire-wrapping technique:
http://www.folksy.com/shops/Reverie
Wedding jewellery and accessories:
http://www.folksy.com/shops/BiancabyReverie
All your help is very appreciated
Sincerely yours
Monika
my blog: www.reverie-art.blogspot.com "
Saturday, 3 September 2011
Saved The Day
I got off to a very slow start today. I'm usually up and dashing around very early on a Saturday, but for some reason I was a bit couch bound and sleepy. It could have been a complete bust, but I pulled it back and got working just before lunch. I wanted to get some paintings finished, do another for my lovely niece for her birthday and dye my hair. I'm happy to report that I managed all of the above, as well as a trip to Asda for the food shop. Victorious are me!
It's been a very hectic week. Work has been flat out chaotic with loads of stuff to do. I hven't made it out of there before 5.30pm any day, and yesterday it was a few minutes to six before I escaped. I'm meant to stop at five, but it just never happens. I've also had some stress in the form of problems with a colleague. I blimmin hate it when that happens. I've done all I can to nip it in the bud, but time will tell if I've been successful.
I'm moving on soon to some landscape work, a subject that I enjoy and haven't really explored for a long time. I'm kind of done with the stuff I've been making lately, so despite the fact that people like it and it sells, I shall be branching out. Before I do, here are my latest pieces.
It's been a very hectic week. Work has been flat out chaotic with loads of stuff to do. I hven't made it out of there before 5.30pm any day, and yesterday it was a few minutes to six before I escaped. I'm meant to stop at five, but it just never happens. I've also had some stress in the form of problems with a colleague. I blimmin hate it when that happens. I've done all I can to nip it in the bud, but time will tell if I've been successful.
I'm moving on soon to some landscape work, a subject that I enjoy and haven't really explored for a long time. I'm kind of done with the stuff I've been making lately, so despite the fact that people like it and it sells, I shall be branching out. Before I do, here are my latest pieces.
Tuesday, 30 August 2011
Trials And Victories of a Middle Aged Artist
Shocked at how long it is since I last popped by with any news. Shame on me!
I think it was a Tuesday off when I found time to blog, and now here we are again. I do have a good excuse as to why I wasn't here last week - what a hideous time that was. It all started on the Saturday when my beloved and I planned a lovely day out, a meal and a wander round Liverpool to celebrate my first payday. It started off well, but by Saturday afternoon it became apparent that all wasn't so well with the food we'd had. I got sick and spent Saturday afternoon to Wednesday night being ill in all it's forms. Tuesday evening was so desperate that I was in tears, between flights to the bathroom. I lost my lovely weekend and the ensuing days and it was simply wretched. Add to that the anxiety of having to take time off work in a new job and it puts the icing on the damned cake of doom. All best forgotten really.
Anyway, I'm over it now finally. I took a bit of time on Saturday to work on some paintings. I'm exploring the butterfly thing a bit more and playing with the technique I've been developing. The results are being well received and more have sold, which remains awesome and splendid and gives me a huge sense of satisfaction. I did a watercolour card too, which I failed to get a photo of (too busy I reckon), but the work colleague who asked me to make it is over the moon with the result and is sending it off to Bulgeria today.
These are from weekend:
I had an arachnid horror adventure one afternoon last week. Hub had picked me up from work and just as we pulled up outside the house I looked in my bag. I have no idea why, but I did and right there on the top of my handbag treasure was the biggest, fattest, most revolting spider I've seen in many a year. I did a comedy doubletake and shoved the bag to my unsuspecting spouse with a shriek. Now he's not afraid of spiders and he went fishing in there to grab the critter. It duly jumped out onto his t-shirt and began running all over him. I say running, as though something that size could have any great speed about it. It was more like an ocotpus giving him a tentacle massage. By this point I was out of the car and a safe distance away, shuddering and watching the hairs on my arms standing on end as though I were attached to an electricity outlet. He managed to catch it eventually and set it free. I'm goose bumpy here even describing it. Yuck! Needless to say he was urged to tip out the contents of my bag once we got indoors and I've been eyeing it with suspicion ever since. The worst thing about it? I'll tell you - I can't stop wondering how long I'd been carrying that thing around with me! It could have been in my bag for DAYS. Argh! I don't think I'll ever feel clean again!
The black comedy that is my life continues today. I woke up with a bit of a stiff neck this morning and within 20 minutes of getting up I was unable to move. That thing where you walk like Herman Munster and can't look round without turning your whole body? Yeah that. So hub has rubbed me with Voltarol Gel (romantic little scenario) and I'm sitting here with a hot water bottle jammed down the back of my dressing gown. Good job he's back at work today because he wouldn't be able to keep his hands off me.
It's lovely to be having my day off, despite the drawbacks. I have some work lined up to do and a birthday present to make. I was going to sculpt today, but my lack of supple muscle movement is a bit of a handicap. I may pop back later with an update, but if not, see you all another Tuesday.
I think it was a Tuesday off when I found time to blog, and now here we are again. I do have a good excuse as to why I wasn't here last week - what a hideous time that was. It all started on the Saturday when my beloved and I planned a lovely day out, a meal and a wander round Liverpool to celebrate my first payday. It started off well, but by Saturday afternoon it became apparent that all wasn't so well with the food we'd had. I got sick and spent Saturday afternoon to Wednesday night being ill in all it's forms. Tuesday evening was so desperate that I was in tears, between flights to the bathroom. I lost my lovely weekend and the ensuing days and it was simply wretched. Add to that the anxiety of having to take time off work in a new job and it puts the icing on the damned cake of doom. All best forgotten really.
Anyway, I'm over it now finally. I took a bit of time on Saturday to work on some paintings. I'm exploring the butterfly thing a bit more and playing with the technique I've been developing. The results are being well received and more have sold, which remains awesome and splendid and gives me a huge sense of satisfaction. I did a watercolour card too, which I failed to get a photo of (too busy I reckon), but the work colleague who asked me to make it is over the moon with the result and is sending it off to Bulgeria today.
These are from weekend:
I had an arachnid horror adventure one afternoon last week. Hub had picked me up from work and just as we pulled up outside the house I looked in my bag. I have no idea why, but I did and right there on the top of my handbag treasure was the biggest, fattest, most revolting spider I've seen in many a year. I did a comedy doubletake and shoved the bag to my unsuspecting spouse with a shriek. Now he's not afraid of spiders and he went fishing in there to grab the critter. It duly jumped out onto his t-shirt and began running all over him. I say running, as though something that size could have any great speed about it. It was more like an ocotpus giving him a tentacle massage. By this point I was out of the car and a safe distance away, shuddering and watching the hairs on my arms standing on end as though I were attached to an electricity outlet. He managed to catch it eventually and set it free. I'm goose bumpy here even describing it. Yuck! Needless to say he was urged to tip out the contents of my bag once we got indoors and I've been eyeing it with suspicion ever since. The worst thing about it? I'll tell you - I can't stop wondering how long I'd been carrying that thing around with me! It could have been in my bag for DAYS. Argh! I don't think I'll ever feel clean again!
The black comedy that is my life continues today. I woke up with a bit of a stiff neck this morning and within 20 minutes of getting up I was unable to move. That thing where you walk like Herman Munster and can't look round without turning your whole body? Yeah that. So hub has rubbed me with Voltarol Gel (romantic little scenario) and I'm sitting here with a hot water bottle jammed down the back of my dressing gown. Good job he's back at work today because he wouldn't be able to keep his hands off me.
It's lovely to be having my day off, despite the drawbacks. I have some work lined up to do and a birthday present to make. I was going to sculpt today, but my lack of supple muscle movement is a bit of a handicap. I may pop back later with an update, but if not, see you all another Tuesday.
Thursday, 18 August 2011
Fruits of my labours
The last nine paintings I've posted here have now all sold, plus five others, all in the space of a few weeks. Do I need to attempt to wax lyrical about how amazingly over the moon and filled to the brim with squeeing joy I am? It's becoming a routine to be packing up parcels in the evenings, a chore that I do with a gigantic smile upon my mush. The pleasure of this has dragged me from doom to relative happiness and is even making me not quite so sad that I'm not home painting or making things all day any more. My life balance is constantly tipping this way and that and I'm doing my best to hang on. I could use some No More Nails I reckon.
I've not got a whole lot more to report today really. I'm just fresh from a delicious bath and about to dry my hair ready for a lovely early night. I'm looking forward to a day out with my honey on Saturday, when we shall have a trip to the art shop and a special lunch somewhere. I'll also be trying to squeeze some work time in of course, as well as my washing and ironing. Can this all be done in a day? Goodness me. Who knows?
There's this book writing thing in November. You write so many words per day and by the end of the month you have a novel, be it good, bad or indifferent. I'm considering having a crack at it. I definitely need a few more hours in my day, which would probably mean moving to a planet with a different set of logistics than my current one. I'd give that a go too if it were feasable, but alas, I doubt my Ford Fiesta would get me there.
I've not got a whole lot more to report today really. I'm just fresh from a delicious bath and about to dry my hair ready for a lovely early night. I'm looking forward to a day out with my honey on Saturday, when we shall have a trip to the art shop and a special lunch somewhere. I'll also be trying to squeeze some work time in of course, as well as my washing and ironing. Can this all be done in a day? Goodness me. Who knows?
There's this book writing thing in November. You write so many words per day and by the end of the month you have a novel, be it good, bad or indifferent. I'm considering having a crack at it. I definitely need a few more hours in my day, which would probably mean moving to a planet with a different set of logistics than my current one. I'd give that a go too if it were feasable, but alas, I doubt my Ford Fiesta would get me there.
Tuesday, 16 August 2011
Tuesday's Child
Yep, it's my day off again. I get Saturdays and Tuesdays off each week, in case I didn't mention that before. It's a most peculiar setup for someone who's always done Monday to Friday.
The job remains bearable on the whole. I've had a few hideous days and a few good ones, but mostly average ones really. I still don't feel settled there, I think it's going to take some time. I am however into the routine of being out all day and coming home to spend the evenings with my beloved hub. I'm still walking every day, although not the whole way because I tend to meet up with hub on his way home and get a lift for the last part of the journey. Even so, I expect I'll be thin in a fortnight, three weeks tops.
I've painted again today. I'm making a concerted effort to be doing this when I'm home. On Saturday while I was off I made a card, but mostly did couple things and had a chill out. Tuesdays are definitely the days of industry.
It's been butterflies mostly. Not my usual topic of choice, but I felt like giving them a go. Results are as follows. Oh and a landscape that I did last week while I was off.
The job remains bearable on the whole. I've had a few hideous days and a few good ones, but mostly average ones really. I still don't feel settled there, I think it's going to take some time. I am however into the routine of being out all day and coming home to spend the evenings with my beloved hub. I'm still walking every day, although not the whole way because I tend to meet up with hub on his way home and get a lift for the last part of the journey. Even so, I expect I'll be thin in a fortnight, three weeks tops.
I've painted again today. I'm making a concerted effort to be doing this when I'm home. On Saturday while I was off I made a card, but mostly did couple things and had a chill out. Tuesdays are definitely the days of industry.
It's been butterflies mostly. Not my usual topic of choice, but I felt like giving them a go. Results are as follows. Oh and a landscape that I did last week while I was off.
Sunday, 7 August 2011
7 Days Later
Here we are a week on. I purposely didn't write anything during the week because I wanted to try and settle a little in the new job first.
Monday was a rough one if I'm honest, but then I was expecting it to be. I always hate the first day in a new job with all the faffing it involves. I walked almost the whole way home too (2 miles), so I had sore feet, being mostly a desk dweller for so long. Hub was a star though and cooked dinner, did the dishes, ran me a bath and gave me a foot rub afterwards. He's been simply wonderful this week.
I think I've started to settle in a bit now. The people are alright and I'm beginning to get used to the ways of the place, which has involved unlearning the habits that I had from my last full time job. It's a very similar company in that it's a supplier, but the way it all works is very different. It's smaller, so we all do a bit of everything rather than my own cut and dried little bit of responsibility that I'm used to. Thursday and Friday were pretty good as I felt like I was becoming more useful and learning a lot of the things I need to be up to speed with.
It's been scary. I have so many bad associations after my last job that I was waiting almost with my breath held for things to be unpleasant. Then there's the fear that I would instantly be plunged back into the misery I was feeling previously and that the despression would return in a flash. Sounds silly when I write it all down, but I really was terribly afraid of it being instant trauma and doom. I have to do this job, at least in the short term, and I need to hold myself together. So far I'm OK, but I'm still not relaxed about it. Hopefully that will come soon.
I didn't manage to do any creative work at all in the week. I guess I was a bit wary in making sure I chilled out in the evenings and nursed myself through the first few days. I was determined not to waste my weekend though, especially since in future I'll be working either Saturday or Sunday. They haven't put me in the rota yet, so I got to have a full weekend off.
Saturday I was so tired. It took my be surprise, as I'm always up and busy first thing. I ended up going back to bed for an hour mid-morning. Once I'd caught up a bit I managed to get all my washing and ironing done, which felt very encouraging. We had a relaxing evening and an early night; most indulgent!
Today I've worked my socks off finishing my commission paintings so I can send them off to my customer. I needed to get this batch out of the way so I can start the next project, which will be more time consuming (some scuplted masks). I also found an hour to pop to Ikea and grab some new picture frames.
So I've managed to complete a week in work and still get some art done on my days off. I'm really pleased and I hope with every fibre of my being that things will continue as well going forward.
Here are the paintings that are ready to be sent off
Monday was a rough one if I'm honest, but then I was expecting it to be. I always hate the first day in a new job with all the faffing it involves. I walked almost the whole way home too (2 miles), so I had sore feet, being mostly a desk dweller for so long. Hub was a star though and cooked dinner, did the dishes, ran me a bath and gave me a foot rub afterwards. He's been simply wonderful this week.
I think I've started to settle in a bit now. The people are alright and I'm beginning to get used to the ways of the place, which has involved unlearning the habits that I had from my last full time job. It's a very similar company in that it's a supplier, but the way it all works is very different. It's smaller, so we all do a bit of everything rather than my own cut and dried little bit of responsibility that I'm used to. Thursday and Friday were pretty good as I felt like I was becoming more useful and learning a lot of the things I need to be up to speed with.
It's been scary. I have so many bad associations after my last job that I was waiting almost with my breath held for things to be unpleasant. Then there's the fear that I would instantly be plunged back into the misery I was feeling previously and that the despression would return in a flash. Sounds silly when I write it all down, but I really was terribly afraid of it being instant trauma and doom. I have to do this job, at least in the short term, and I need to hold myself together. So far I'm OK, but I'm still not relaxed about it. Hopefully that will come soon.
I didn't manage to do any creative work at all in the week. I guess I was a bit wary in making sure I chilled out in the evenings and nursed myself through the first few days. I was determined not to waste my weekend though, especially since in future I'll be working either Saturday or Sunday. They haven't put me in the rota yet, so I got to have a full weekend off.
Saturday I was so tired. It took my be surprise, as I'm always up and busy first thing. I ended up going back to bed for an hour mid-morning. Once I'd caught up a bit I managed to get all my washing and ironing done, which felt very encouraging. We had a relaxing evening and an early night; most indulgent!
Today I've worked my socks off finishing my commission paintings so I can send them off to my customer. I needed to get this batch out of the way so I can start the next project, which will be more time consuming (some scuplted masks). I also found an hour to pop to Ikea and grab some new picture frames.
So I've managed to complete a week in work and still get some art done on my days off. I'm really pleased and I hope with every fibre of my being that things will continue as well going forward.
Here are the paintings that are ready to be sent off
Sunday, 31 July 2011
Here I go then, wish me luck!
I've not been very forthcoming with the old blog updates this week. It's all been a tad hectic since my last post, but I guess we knew it would be, didn't we?
Workwise, I've been hammering at the various things I have on my list of must-be-dones. I was hoping to be finished on the painting front by today, but not quite there yet. I should be able to put a few hours in during the evenings this week and I'll definitely utilise my weekday off for wrapping up the last bits. Lists will be required for the other stuff I'm up to, as so kindly suggested by fellow arty types. I'm in full agreement that this is the way to go. I've always been a fan of lists, they never let you down.
General life things. Well, hub booked Thursday and Friday off work to spend some time with me. I must admit to allowing everything else to fall by the wayside for those days and abandoning all to revel in some wonderful days of fun. We're both delighted to have had what class way up there in the "best days of 2011 so far". We did a bit of shopping, marvelling in the fact that we'll actually be able to make it to the end of the month without tears and tribulations. Nothing massive, just a few little treats. I got some new shoes for work and a couple of things to wear in the fantastic Liverpool sales. We went to see Captain America too (awesome film - all you geeky types must go and see it), joined by our eldest and youngest spawn. The little one was 18 on Wednesday, so we celebrated with her by way of presents, cake and general sillies. I shall refrain from my moans of how old I feel having all of them over 18 now. Gah!
I went to the hairdressers to ask about having the many years worth of hair dye removed from my noggin. I've not been keeping up with it these last months due to lack of cash and my grey is really taking hold. I thought I might embrace it and start being graceful about my age, but the quote of £94 sent me straight off to Superdrug for a box of colour. Crikey. People really pay this sort of money to have their hair done? I'll stick to DIY thank you very much.
Today I've been super virtuous and done all my ironing. I've already unearthed my old work clothes from the past few years and washed them, so it was a whole afternoon of trying things on, sewing on buttons and general sprucing. I'm pretty pleased at how much I've got. My weight has fluctuated a lot since I got most of this clobber, by which I mean I got stuff, got fatter, got new stuff, etc. I am happy that I can now wear any of it because I'm back down to how I was about 3 or 4 years ago. I don't mind things being loose, so I've got heaps! And no, I'm not regretting buying two lovely new tops in the sale for £4 each - they'll be welcomed into the arms of my bulging wardrobe. Now I just need to decide what to wear tomorrow and paint my nails accordingly. That's the one girlie thing about me, I always have my nails painted, no matter what. Really it's just a long standing habit of about twenty years and not very much at all to do with glamour or fashion.
Hub has just got home from geeking with his friends, so we're going to have roast chicken and salad together in the peaceful house. Tascha is still doing 18th stuff, dragging it out for as long as she can (and who can blame her?), so we're chilling in the quiet.
I do so hope that next time I write I'll be pleased with how things are going at the new job. Cross your fingers and toes for me?
Workwise, I've been hammering at the various things I have on my list of must-be-dones. I was hoping to be finished on the painting front by today, but not quite there yet. I should be able to put a few hours in during the evenings this week and I'll definitely utilise my weekday off for wrapping up the last bits. Lists will be required for the other stuff I'm up to, as so kindly suggested by fellow arty types. I'm in full agreement that this is the way to go. I've always been a fan of lists, they never let you down.
General life things. Well, hub booked Thursday and Friday off work to spend some time with me. I must admit to allowing everything else to fall by the wayside for those days and abandoning all to revel in some wonderful days of fun. We're both delighted to have had what class way up there in the "best days of 2011 so far". We did a bit of shopping, marvelling in the fact that we'll actually be able to make it to the end of the month without tears and tribulations. Nothing massive, just a few little treats. I got some new shoes for work and a couple of things to wear in the fantastic Liverpool sales. We went to see Captain America too (awesome film - all you geeky types must go and see it), joined by our eldest and youngest spawn. The little one was 18 on Wednesday, so we celebrated with her by way of presents, cake and general sillies. I shall refrain from my moans of how old I feel having all of them over 18 now. Gah!
I went to the hairdressers to ask about having the many years worth of hair dye removed from my noggin. I've not been keeping up with it these last months due to lack of cash and my grey is really taking hold. I thought I might embrace it and start being graceful about my age, but the quote of £94 sent me straight off to Superdrug for a box of colour. Crikey. People really pay this sort of money to have their hair done? I'll stick to DIY thank you very much.
Today I've been super virtuous and done all my ironing. I've already unearthed my old work clothes from the past few years and washed them, so it was a whole afternoon of trying things on, sewing on buttons and general sprucing. I'm pretty pleased at how much I've got. My weight has fluctuated a lot since I got most of this clobber, by which I mean I got stuff, got fatter, got new stuff, etc. I am happy that I can now wear any of it because I'm back down to how I was about 3 or 4 years ago. I don't mind things being loose, so I've got heaps! And no, I'm not regretting buying two lovely new tops in the sale for £4 each - they'll be welcomed into the arms of my bulging wardrobe. Now I just need to decide what to wear tomorrow and paint my nails accordingly. That's the one girlie thing about me, I always have my nails painted, no matter what. Really it's just a long standing habit of about twenty years and not very much at all to do with glamour or fashion.
Hub has just got home from geeking with his friends, so we're going to have roast chicken and salad together in the peaceful house. Tascha is still doing 18th stuff, dragging it out for as long as she can (and who can blame her?), so we're chilling in the quiet.
I do so hope that next time I write I'll be pleased with how things are going at the new job. Cross your fingers and toes for me?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)