Two cards for some wonderful people.
Did you get what you wanted from this life?
I just recently found this photo of a quote I found on my alma mater campus. Missing my friends today at what feels like the end of summer, but I must say I know I am loved.
One Can't Resist Babies and Puppies
I love meeting new people and hearing about their lives and then get to paint for them capturing the images of the people and pets they love.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar Cheese is the nick name my sister gave her roommate's cat Cheddar. A gorgeous orange cat that likes to take long naps and hunt animals outside.
I Have a New Brother!
My dear sister Katie got married! I now finally have a brother, and my Dad is less out numbered.
Welcome to the family Nathan!
Michigan Summer
"Never miss a chance to dip your toes in Lake Michigan."
I'm not sure who said this lovely sentiment, but I love every time I get to be out by Lake Michigan. After my twin sister's wedding I got to spend sometime with college friends that were still in town. We spent the day walking around Downtown Holland visiting the farmers market, and of course strolling through our dear Hope College Campus. We couldn't believe how much has changed and thankfully how much had not changed since we graduated eight years ago. The day continued on the beautiful lake shores of Lake Michigan where we did dip our toes in the water no matter how chilling it still is this time of year. Fricano's Pizza and Captian Sundaes wrapped up the perfect Holland day.
Good times with great friends!
Right Off the Tree
If you are in Michigan during a you pick season find the nearest orchard or field and pick some of the best fruit in the world. Amanda and I had never picked cherries, so we decided hours before the rehearsal dinner would be a good idea!
Happy 4th of July
The best things about Michigan summer are enjoying the great outdoors.
Happy Father's Day
I have been blessed with some amazing fathers. Julie and I however totally failed at getting a card so I quick whipped one out a few minutes before we had to leave to take them out for ice cream and Julie wrote in the car on the way there...thankfully one of us can paint and the other is a mad skills writer.
Home
I cannot wait to go home and be with the ones I love. This card however was for my sister Katie to put in a gift she was giving to a teacher she has worked with for five years. She is leaving the school moving to the next chapter in her life. I know how hard it is to move on.
In the Navy
Paintings for the lovely ladies of the VT28 OSC
We look good in flight suits too.
Spring
I got to plant some flowers last weekend and this morning I went outside to see how they survived our storm. I am pleased to report they are all alive still and happy.
"And So, She Decided...."
Waterfall in Texas
With every turn of every corner more beauty was to be seen. I had no idea there was such a gorgeous place just a few hours from where I live. This weekend getaway was much needed. The area was so breathtakingly beautiful I could have stayed there all day. I cannot wait until the summer when I can return on a warmer day and swim in the clear blue green water.
Lizard
My dear friend Liz came to stay with us back in October. She brought beauty and excitement back into my world. Truthfully I was feeling rather down about living in the state of Texas...sorry Texans, but this is not my home. However, with saying that Liz encouraged me to explore this state and find some of the truly beautiful things about this area. I am forever blessed and grateful that she came.
Puppies
I do not own a dog, and if you know a bit of my history you would understand my love for dogs, but why I keep my distance. (My childhood dog bit my lip off.) After that time our my said that we could watch dogs, we just could not name one. I now get to enjoy painting other peoples beloved pets. This past weekend I watched a neighbors puppies, very tempting to take one home with me...but I love my furniture more...for now. I also met some new people who upon hearing that I am an artist asked me to paint a piece for a birthday gift, I was all but to happy to oblige.
Groundhog Day
Perhaps this is lame, yet my one of my favorite days of the year is Groundhog Day! February 2nd I traditionally watch the movie "Groundhog Day" as many times as I can (average 3 to 4), and if I can throw a dinner party. Someday I would love to go to the actual festival in Pensilvania. I work at a middle school and drew a groundhog on the board...non of my students knew what I was talking about...guess its only a holiday that is celebrated in the north.
Pour Over Coffee
A good friend of mine is always telling me to stop in at a coffee shop in Grand Rapids when I am home in Michigan. I finally got there and couldn't have been more pleased. I loved the space, the lighting and simplicity...and all the Herman Miller chairs, and of course the coffee was very good too.
Happy Birthday To My Twin Sister Katie
To my dear sister Katie. I have never once wanted my own birthday, I am so blessed to be your twin and share our birthday and many memories growing up. On this special day I want to wish you a blessed and wonderful birthday. We are turning 30 today! I know this next year will be one of excitement for you, and I cannot wait to see all the wonderful memories that will be made. I love you. ~Sarah Jane
Thirty, flirty, and thriving.
December Blueberries
My Grandpa was a blueberry farmer. Growing up we learned what it meant to work hard on a farm, however sometimes we just ate the blueberries as we picked them. My Grandpa planted many fields of blueberries and worked very hard in hopes to help give us a good education and future. When I go home to Michigan I love driving out to Holland. You know when you are getting closer because you can see rows and rows of blueberries. My favorite time to do this is in the winter when the branches are bare. When it is snowing you can see how red the branches are against the white snow. In the winter the fields are so peaceful and calm. I hoped to capture this beauty in this piece.
