I did get two paintings done

One was of my Dad.

I took an old photo.





Then did an underpainting in burnt umber.





Then added colors over that painting.

It's hard start adding color because the painting looks pretty good in burnt umber and at first the color makes it look worse.

I know I haven't posted in a while

First we were working an extra 3 hours a day at work for a couple of weeks, then my parents house burned up. They were okay, but about a week and a half after that one of my Mom's feet and that same leg swelled double. She went to the Doctor and got sent to the Hospital to get checked out. They let her go home, but she has to go get checked out tomorrow.

I am maybe going on another painting trip next week, if she is okay Monday.

Potato Soup

Today was really cold and so I decided to make some potato soup with carrots and turkey bacon. It turned out really good and I will probably make it again soon. I'm trying to create a simple recipe book for myself of things that I like to cook.

I want to try to start eating healthier.

Quote: What I say is that, if a fellow really likes potatoes, he must be a pretty decent sort of fellow. - A. A. Milne

It's the first day of the New Year

I went to a New Years party last night. I'm not really much for parties, but it was fun. I didn't take pictures, but I did get this one that someone else took.

I noticed that the light on my tiara and glasses made it look like I had horns and glowing eyes. I don't.

This morning I woke up thinking about the parable of the talents and how sometimes were afraid to use the talents we have because we don't want to be judged or laughed at. When I first started painting I have to say that my paintings were pretty bad and I am so glad that I didn't just stop there. Whatever Talent that God has gifted you with (yes it is a gift). I hope you will be encouraged to use and develop it.

One thing that got me to thinking about this was my shyness about dancing. Not that God has gifted me in dancing ;-), but sometime I do want to be able to just go out on the dance floor and leave that shyness behind.

I have this little song in my heart this morning.

The Lord gave him Talents
and even though they were few
he used them and grew them
and now has some new

The Lord gave you Talents
he meant you to use
so don't hide them away
because your afraid to

Listen with your heart
and you'll hear God say
Try me and trust me
I'll show you the way