My most recent paintings have been lemons (in-progress), limes, and a bell pepper. I think I am almost ready to move on. They are turning out nicely, but the macro thrill is starting to wear off. I think I need to move on to landscapes or something different like that.

On the bright side, I sat down to paint today with my sister-in-law, who has little, if any, experience with painting. She is doing well! She is doing a very small painting to frame for her mother. Lots of small brushes out and toothpicks too. I'm glad to have "introduced" the relaxing, if not occasionally tedious, world of painting to someone new. Spreading the gospel! She left doing the same thing I do when I am part of the way done. Staring at it, picturing what else needs to be done, looking at the good parts and wanting it to turn out to my satisfaction.

My creative juices have been flowing in other ways as well. I played with Microsoft Publisher, ordered some Christmas gifts that involve photography (one is all my doing, the other I was just a participant with a pro behind the lens), and I've also done some baking. I really would like to make a couple of pies from scratch, if I can squeeze that in somewhere and borrow a couple of items (rolling pin and mat to roll out the crust). It is fun to share talents and put some time into a gift of your own making. It adds meaning!

I'm looking forward to wrapping Christmas gifts as they are purchased and ordered. There is an element of monochrome and uniformity, but also sparkle and prettiness . Soon it will be time to put up the Christmas tree! I don't know what I am doing for Christmas cards this year, but I did make a preliminary list of recipients and got out the box of cards.

On a completely unrelated note, I need to buy new jeans! I am wearing mine out. That's what happens when you only have 3 pairs to wear on a daily basis - they wear thin! Hopefully it will not be too torturous to shop for new ones. This stupid skinny jean trend continues to depress me - I am just not made for them, and if I was, I'd have to shop for shoes, which can also be torturous!

I think it is time to run along. Thank goodness it is only a 3 day work week this week! And there is family time at the end, and maybe my sister will have her baby this week! She is due in just over a week after all...

Ciao tutti,
Laura