Project Pink Suitcase

"JAX", Acrylic on Mahogany, 12 x 12" June 2010

2010-06-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since my last post. I almost forgot my password.
Anyway, this was for my dad's 80th birthday this year.
He loved it. I'm happy he is enjoying the painting.

I'll try to post more again soon. I hope all is well!

Snowball

2010-01-26T21:52:00.001-08:00

Snowball!
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Lookout Z is getting ready to throw a snowball at you! Actually he was aiming for me. That's why he has that big smile. Nothing is more fun than throwing snowballs!
Things here are good. Happy 2010!
I wish I had more time to blog about all the cool things that happen every week. Lately, ever since I joined Facebook, my on-line time has
been taken over by checking in to FB. I admit I have been sucked in.
Now that I realize this, I have been on FB a little less. Here I am, getting back to my neglected blog. It feels good to post to my blog.
Now back to my life again. The duty of motherhood is calling. Then sleep, then work, then motherhood again and the cycle continues...and this is also what happens.

Cowboys and Indians Party!

2009-10-17T07:37:00.001-07:00

Cowboys and Indians Party!
Originally uploaded by projectpink

So much going on, so little time to post to my blog.
Good stuff! Z turned 4. Grandma and Z share the same b-day, so we
had a big party. It was a Cowboys and Indians Birthday Party! Lots of fun!
I'll have to post more again soon.
Right now I am getting ready to go meet my friend Meredith who took this photo. We are going to go hiking with the kids. Meredith is an amazing photographer...check out her website. http://www.meredithparmelee.com
Have a great weekend y'all!

Windmill Hole

2009-09-20T06:46:00.001-07:00

Windmill Hole
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here is another classic! It's the windmill hole at miniature golf.
Z wanted to play miniature golf and kept asking me for 2 days straight. "When can we go to miniature golf?" He'd ask almost every 1/2 hour it seemed.
Yes, we made it to Castle Park. Z was so happy! He even got a hole in one on
hole #13. I made a hole in one on #12. Bruce made a hole in one
on #17. It was a good round of golf for all!

Castle Park Miniature Golf

2009-09-20T06:41:00.001-07:00

Castle Park Miniature Golf
Originally uploaded by projectpink

I love these crazy architecture gone wild things that happen at miniture golf courses. This one is a classic, complete with dragon!
I love it!

Golf

2009-09-20T06:38:00.001-07:00

Golf
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We got to play the full 18 holes over Labor Day weekend at Shandin Hills Golf Course. Bruce's parents watched Z.
It played very slow with everyone and their uncle playing due to the holiday weekend. It was so worth it though. I was way better on the back nine after I had a chance to practice a bit on the front nine.
I don't get much practice in these days, so I am getting my practice in while on the course. Bruce says that's the best way to practice anyways. It was fun!

Miniature Golf

2009-08-25T20:56:00.001-07:00

Miniature Golf
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's Z with his best friend A playing miniature golf.
He loves golf right now. Z loves putting and going to the driving range. He had a meltdown when we had to leave the course.
He loves to play!!! This was a temporary mini course set-up for
an Employee picnic at Mattel. Notice the Barbie golf pin flag.
It was fun. Z had the most fun on the course.

Kite

2009-07-23T06:52:00.001-07:00

Kite
Originally uploaded by projectpink

I love the long summer days! Z loves them too.
Last week it was windy in the afternoon, so we got the ol' kite out.
Up it went into the sky. Z is able to hold the kite string a lot better now. I usually end up flying the kite, but I enjoy it. It brings back fun memories of flying kites. This kite we have is so easy to fly. The kites we tried to fly when I was young seemed to have all kinds of
mishaps, crashes and re-trys. So, I'm loving this kite...so easy.

Nest Remnant

2009-07-23T06:45:00.001-07:00

Nest Remnant
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's the remnants of the nest. I think a hawk or a crow got it.
It's sad. I was so excited when I first discovered the nest with the tiny eggs, then to look out my window and see tiny beaks peeking out waiting for mom. Then one morning it was gone. Just a piece of it was left.

Humming Bird Nest

2009-06-29T07:02:00.001-07:00

Humming Bird Nest
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We have a humming bird nest on the side of our house, just outside our bedroom window.
I was trimmng the trees about 3 weeks ago and found this perfect little nest. This finding halted my tree cutting on this tree for that day.
Now, that it is 3 weeks later, I looked out our window this morning and saw a tiny beak sticking out of the nest. Soon after, the mama came flying in with food for her little ones. It's very cool.
I still can't believe we are in the middle of the year with 4th of July right around the corner.
Time flies!

Dodgers, Acupuncture & Painting

2009-06-15T21:11:00.001-07:00

Watching a Dodger Game
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here are two important men in my life. We went to see the Dodgers V.S. Phillies play on June 6th, 2009.
It's always fun going to the stadium and watching the Dodgers play.
They won that day too, so that is always a plus.
Father's Day is coming up this next weekend...Hmmm???
****
I'm feeling more like myself. The pain I was in is almost gone.
Now, I'm seeing an acupuncturist/herbalist in addition to a chiropractor. I am finding out I like acupuncture. A couple friends recommended it, but I admit I was reluctant to try it. I have a huge fear of needles. Then about 2 weeks ago, I thought why not? I had no idea that I would enjoy acupuncture so much. I thought I would be petrified of the needles, but I barely notice them. The whole history of acupuncture is so fascinating too. I know little of it, but what I am learning, tiny bit by tiny bit has me enthralled. I'm into my 3rd week of taking an easy yoga class too. This is great too. I'm trying new things for me which is so fun.
****
I actually made it to a plein air outing last weekend. A group of artists called the Allied Artists of the Santa Monica Mountatins meets once a month for Paint Outs. I was only there for an hour, but any little thing is great. I did a quick watercolor and took some photos. For a while I was member of the Allied Artists and was in a group show. Lately, I just try to show up when I can. I notice that when I paint now (post-having a baby), I am a lot more direct now. I am in a way more efficent with my brush strokes due to limited painting time. This has been interesting for me to notice. Actually, I am more direct in other areas too. I tend to make decisions quicker instead of pondering many outcomes before making a decision. Somehow I have adapted getting in the things I love to do with less time...becoming more efficient out of necessity. This is a good thing.
However, do not be confused, I would love to have more time in my day if I could.

***
Enjoy your day my friends!!!

Golf: 9-hole course

2009-05-29T18:16:00.001-07:00

Golf: 9-hole course
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's a photo from Memorial Day weekend of my dad and me. My mom and dad were visiting for the holiday. It was actually the first weekend I felt like I could try to play golf since my arm/neck/thumb injury. My husband and dad played an 18-hole, a 9-hole and then another 9-hole with me. I just played the one 9-hole.
I was happy to play, but I played terrible. I haven't played since last April up in Boulder Creek with my dad and Bruce. I was glad to not get re-injured. That was the key to my game that day. It also contributed to my terrible playing. I could tell I was holding back. So, now that I know I can play 9-holes without re-injuring myself I feel good that I can start playing more regularly again. Yeah! In general, I am happy that I am about 90% recovered. I still have some very subtle numbness in my thumb. It's getting better little by little. That's a good thing!

LACMA

2009-05-10T10:22:00.001-07:00

LACMA
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Last weekend we went to LACMA. It was fun!
Before going inside we explored the Rodin sculptures outdoors and
the Chris Burden lampost installation. I love that classic-modern
interchange. Here is Z going through the gates from Rodin to Burden.

Happy Mother's day to all of you moms! We are celebrating today by
going to a "free" mulch pile from the City of LA. What fun! Dirt!
We are going to put it on our rose plants outside. I hope to pull some of the weeds out, then put the mulch on top. We'll see. My shoulder is recovering from the last time I posted, but it is better.
I don't know how much mulching I can do. My thumb is still a little numb, with a somewhat pressure feeling on my forearm like I am wearing a sleeve. At least now I can sleep at night, which is huge.
It's some type of pinched nerve kind of thing which is slowing down the sensation to my forearm and thumb.
Anyway, I'm going to try to mulch.... We'll see.
Enjoy your day moms!

Big Sur: Andy & Greg

2009-04-19T15:49:00.001-07:00

Big Sur
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We did a road trip to see my parents. On the way back we drove PCH along the coast through Big Sur. Usually we just take the 5, but
we (my mom, dad, husband, son and myself) wanted to stop in Big Sur to celebrate my brothers' lives. The day we went was on their birthday on April 10th. We stopped at one of Andy & Greg's favorite spots, Sand Dollar.
It was a perfect day to drive through Big Sur. You never know if it will be overcast or not. My brothers loved Big Sur. I love it too.
This photo is at Bixby bridge on the way to where we would stop to
remember my brothers.

Now I am back home...and I have a brutal pain in my shoulder,arm and neck. Part of me thinks it might be partly due to the passing of my brothers. I don't think I have really come to terms with their passing. Now my body is in pain...I didn't do anything out of the ordinary to get this pain that I can pinpoint. Emotions, stress, bad habits, sleep position, picking up my 34 lb. son...all kinds of things are factors in the way the body operates. I'm icing the painful area and getting an MRI in my shoulder area tomorrow. I have had this brutal pain for over a week now. I hope to have relief soon. The DR said, "breathe". For whatever reason (most likely stress), I am taking short breaths. I'm trying very hard to relax, which seems like a stressful way to relax.

Meerkat

2009-04-04T16:58:00.001-07:00

Meerkat
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Another day at the zoo!
It was fun to see the meerkats out today!
They are fun to see. Z is now completely asleep in napland.
Ahhh...the life of a 3 1/2 year old.
We met some friends and had a super time.

Party!

2009-03-21T20:58:00.001-07:00

Party!
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here is Z at his friend's 3 year birthday party!
Lots of action there today. They had pizza, apple juice, cupcakes and a bouncy house.
Most of his friends were there...so what more could you ask for?
Then, Z had a huge nap!

Dandelion

2009-03-13T20:24:00.001-07:00

Dandelion
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We have many dandelions in our backyard.
Once in a while I try to dig them up, but it is no use.
They come back. I just read that trying to dig them up actually helps them come back even more. I surrender.
Z loves them. I don't blame him. I used to love blowing the little parachute seed pods myself as a child. Once in a while today I still blow one just to see the seeds blow in the wind and disperse. Mostly now, I just watch Z do it. He can't resist a full round puffy dandelion.
Right now we have lots of tempting dandelions to blow.

Snow!

2009-02-24T20:38:00.001-08:00

Snow!
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Z went to the snow.
We didn't stay outside too long since we
didn't have snow gear. We were outside just long enough to
build a mini snowman and take some photos.
Z ended up getting snow in his boots and got cold very fast after that. We used his rainboots and since the snow was a little over a foot tall the snow easily got inside. Now we want to go back better prepared to enjoy all of the fun of the snow. It was fun. I got him a snow saucer already for next time. I know he will love it.

Gorilla Sculpture & Z

2009-02-15T16:38:00.001-08:00

Gorilla Sculpture & Zach
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We went to the LA zoo for Valentine's day. This photo of the sculpture was taken near the Campo Gorilla Reserve. Z didn't need any prompting to go
next to the gorilla sculpture for a photo. He was having fun checking it out.
It was just Z and I with a million other people from LA. It was fun.
Z is beginning to know the layout of zoo. He likes to look at
the map to see where we are and what animals we are going to see.
He is also an expert at getting treats lately. We had an icecream sandwich. Then, later at home he remembered that he had some Valentine's day treats from preschool.

Big Horns

2009-02-06T15:38:00.001-08:00

Big Horns
Originally uploaded by projectpink

At first glance these Big Horns look like they are ramming each other.
Then on closer inspection it is realized that they are eating.
It's feeding time!
We became members to the LA Zoo, so expect to see more zoo animals posted this year.

The Zoo

2009-01-18T17:21:00.001-08:00

The Zoo
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We went to the LA Zoo today.
Z loved the gators. When we went to the park section of the zoo he found the gator to sit on. It was a photo Op moment. Other moms were posing their kids on the gator too. The gator didn't seem to have much time without a child riding him, sitting on him or jumping off of him. The other highlights of the zoo were the giraffes, the
chimpanzees and snow cone. Lots of stuff going on there today with lots of people.
You could say it was a zoo at the zoo.

Trail

2009-01-10T16:17:00.001-08:00

Trail
Originally uploaded by projectpink

I hiked on a trail in the Santa Monica mountains today.
The day was beautiful. I was a little sleepy, but still enjoyed being out in the mountains. Happy 2009 everyone!

Candy Cane

2008-12-07T01:03:00.001-08:00

Candy Cane
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Today we got a Christmas tree at a tree lot. Z loved running in the
"tree forest". Here he is with a holiday favorite, the candy cane.
I'm still slightly in denial that we are in December already.
Despite my denial, I am doing lots of Christmas things with Z already. He is noticing all of the Holiday lights going up in the neighborhood. We are reading about "Frosty" and "The Old Lady Who Swallowed a Bell". We are even listening to Jingle Bells in my car. Tomorrow we will decorate the tree. I love this time of year and each year it seems to go by quicker and quicker. Blink. 2009.

Getty

2008-11-23T16:48:00.001-08:00

Getty
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We went on a mini trip to the Getty.
It was brief but beautiful.
Here we are by the garden. After going to the Getty cafe, the garden, then to look at some historical landscape photographs, Z was done.
We only made it to the one photo exhibit (one room), which is barely anything of what they have. I have to say it is more than I have done in a while so I will take what I can get. I love the Getty, so any little bit is a treat. It reminds me that I should try to go more often. When Z is a tiny bit older they have kids' activities I can take him to.

Batting Practice

2008-11-09T23:02:00.001-08:00

Batting Practice
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here is Z last weekend doing some batting practice. He loves it.
When I asked if I could have a turn, he said "sure". He let me try 3 balls, then it was Z's turn again. We were using a Wiffle ball bat which is harder than it looks. It's a thin bat. I'm used to a big
ol' thick softball bat with a large softball to hit. I'm out of practice, but it was fun getting out to a baseball diamond and watching Z hit some balls. He likes to run the bases too. The first base he went to last weekend was the pitcher's mound (not a base), then to second base, then he makes his way back to home plate on the path of a bumble bee. Z just knows that at some point in the game of baseball the batter runs and that's what he does.

Z and Me

2008-11-02T22:53:00.001-08:00

Z and Me
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here we are on Halloween at Z's daycare. Yes, I was a witch as promised with my red hat. I temporarily traded my Velma wig for my friend's pink wig.
I love this pink wig. Z didn't seem to mind it either when he saw me put it on with the witch hat. Later I wore it to the park by itself for fun. It was Halloween, so it seemed like the right thing to do. Z was a Ninja at the park.
After about an hour, he pulled the pink wig off my head. Later I put it all back on for trick or treating.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-02T22:47:00.001-08:00

Halloween 2008
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Z had 2 costumes this year. He picked out a Lightening McQueen pit crew outfit and later on the week of Halloween he spotted this Ninja Warrior.

Halloween Fun

2008-10-26T22:25:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Patch
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We went to a local l Halloween event for kids.
Z had fun. We met his friend A, and his mom there.
Not much going on here except we are getting into Halloween.
I'm going to be a witch again this year. I'd plan a more elaborate costume, but I like the ease and simplicity of it. I love that a witch is so classic Halloween too. I almost bought a wig for long hair, but Z said it was too scary. It wasn't scary, but for some reason he thought long purple hair was scary. Not related to Halloween, he also thought that the long extension poles for painting at Home Depot were scary so I'm not sure.
Yet, on the other hand he likes watching scary movies on TV. Go figure.
More Halloween coming soon...

Mighty Tonka Truck

2008-10-19T23:37:00.001-07:00

Mighty Tonka Truck
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's Z with a friend's old school Mighty Tonka Truck.
The truck is mostly metal like how they used to make them.
It is still in great condition. Z loved pulling it over the paver stones
in my friend's backyard. It was filled with hotwheels. He is completely 100% boy.
*****
I've been thinking I should change the name of my blog to Project Z since it has been almost completely about Z. You can see where my priorities are, as they should be. I totally enjoy him.
For now I'll keep my blog as Project Pink Suitcase because I still have projects in the works. They just take longer to execute now.

Pink Clouds

2008-10-05T23:14:00.001-07:00

Pink Clouds
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's a photo from a walk around the block at sunset.
I love looking at clouds especially pink ones.
I know I have mentioned my love for pink clouds before.
****
I'm still in shock about the loss of my brothers. I know it will take time. My posts have been brief and sporadic lately. I'm savoring time with my little one, plus he demands that I pay all of my attention on him.
*****
A group of surfers did a Paddle Out for Andy at Natural Bridges yesterday on Sat. Oct.4th.2008 at 1pm where Andy loved to surf. They said he "owned" that spot by the tide pools. Those who knew him are now referring to that spot as "Andy's". My mom brought burritos and Snapple for the surfers. I'm sure they were yummy.
I heard about it from talking to my mom. I wish I was there, but I'm in LA. It would be cool if I could travel at light speed and go for free. So many places I would go.

Funkey Frida

2008-09-24T23:36:00.001-07:00

Funkey Frida
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's a recent custom painted XL Funkey I did for a charity auction.
I did Funkey Frida. I was thinking of my blog friends who are also Frida fans (Patrice, Annie and Kelly to name a few...)
The auction takes place this Friday night 9/26. At work they held a contest for any of us to do a custom Funkey. How could I resist?
If you don't know what Funkeys are, here's a brief description,
"U.B. Funkeys™ - the collectable figures that unlock a virtual world filled with games and items. Each Funkey that you collect unlocks new zones."
http://www.ubfunkeys.com/index.html
To check out the info for the auction and exhibit see this link.
http://www.munkyking.com/gallery_home.php

Pony Ride

2008-09-20T00:28:00.001-07:00

Pony Ride
Originally uploaded by projectpink

We had some fun moments during our week of being in Santa Cruz for my brothers' memorial. It wasn't all tears. Going to see the horses and "Buddy" the pony was definitely a nice break from mourning. Z loved "Buddy" the pony! Friends, Katie and Reenie took us to where they keep their horses. Intuitively they knew what we needed in our time of loss.
It was a neccessary fun thing to do.

Andy and Greg

2008-09-13T23:05:00.000-07:00

Andy and Greg Holman
April 10th, 1971 - September 5th, 2008
Ages 37. They were twins.
Ohhh my brothers...I wish I wasn't writing this, but their lives came to a tragic end on Friday Sept. 5th, 2008.

I wrote an obituary for them with my dad that was printed in the Santa Cruz Sentinel on Sept. 10th, 2008.

Car crash took the lives of Andy, Greg and friend Ricardo Leon in Carmel Valley.

Andrew Carl Holman and Gregory Hebert Holman were born together on the same date to Bruce and Barbara Holman in Los Angeles. They were fraternal twins. The family moved to Santa Cruz in 1975. Andy and Greg have lived in Santa Cruz ever since. Andy and Greg will be missed by their parents, their sister Valerie Holman Gresham, Bruce Gresham and their loving family and friends.

Andy and Greg both attended Santa Cruz High and graduated in 1989. Andy was an avid surfer and shaped his own boards. Greg was a carpenter, handy-man and all around fix-it guy. Andy surfed as often as he could and once had a close encounter with a shark near the Waddel Creek area. Greg enjoyed fishing and being with his friends.

They both enjoyed being proud uncles to their nephew Zachery Gresham.

We will all miss their wonderful smiles, laughter and good times we had. Their memories are with us forever.

Here's the brutal news story version.
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/ci_10398840?IADID=Search-www.santacruzsentinel.com-www.santacruzsentinel.com

We had a nice memorial service for them on Friday, Sept. 12th, 2008.
We had an Indian "Smudging" ceremony by a special Indian friend of my mom's who knew my brothers. It was perfect. Prayers were read. Later, some Westside Surfers did a Paddle Out for Andy after the memorial service.
We pray they are at peace. Andy is surfing the Big Waves in the sky. Greg is fishing, smiling and hanging with his friends.

Flying Kites with A&K

2008-08-23T15:40:00.003-07:00

Here's A and his mom.
They have a box kite from
REI.
Very cool kite, although we
both agreed it flew a little crazy at first.
A's mom, K, got control of it after a while.
Fun afternoon!

Flying Kites

2008-08-23T15:40:00.001-07:00

Flying Kites
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Another fun day with A & Z.
We went to the beach to fly kites. A had a kite too. A's mom went and got a kite just for the afternoon so that A would have a kite too.
A had an orange/yellow box kite from REI which was very cool.
This photo shows the type of kite Z has. Friends have asked what kite it is, so I thought I'd add it to the photo. It's a classic Gayla Delta Kite. It's made out of nylon with a rainbow pattern. It's a nice, easy to fly sturdy kite. We love it. I googled them on the internet and found out that I used to fly the BAT kites made by Gayla when I was growing up. The one I had was a thick plastic black/white and had red "googly eye" stickers for eyes.
Gayla is a good solid kite company which has been in business for a while. They are still making them.

Sunset in Low Res. # 2

2008-08-20T23:26:00.003-07:00

Here's another sunset in low res.

Sunset in Low Res.

2008-08-20T23:26:00.001-07:00

Sunset
Originally uploaded by projectpink

I finally downloaded photos from my "full" photo storage on my cell phone. Here's one of a cool sunset. Now I can take more photos again with my cell phone. I love these Low Res. photos. Things get simplified.
It can be very cool to see what it does to images.
More on Low Res. later. To be continued...

Henry Cowell Redwoods

2008-08-17T14:47:00.001-07:00

Henry Cowell Redwoods
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Another one from 4th of July vacation. We went on the loop trail
at Henry Cowell Redwoods.
Here's one with Z, H & C sitting on a redwood tree log bench. H & C are Michelle's two boys.
Z is mine. I couldn't resist. If I had more time I'd turn all of them into
antique photos. (Maybe I will, eventually, as one of my many unfinished projects) It was fun.
Good times!

Ol' Buggy Ride

2008-08-17T14:26:00.001-07:00

ol' Buggy Ride
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Here's one from 4th of July. I've been meaning to
Sepia tone it and put it in a faux antique frame since our trip to SC in July.
Actually the trip to Henry Cowell Redwoods and Roaring Camp with
Michelle (Green Kitchen) was the inspiration. It reminded me of
all of the sepia toned photos I did at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk one summer. Yes, I worked in the Antique Photo Old Time Saloon. It was actually kind of fun. I got used to the loud arcade sounds and thousands of tourists that stop by.
I still have great memories of the Boardwalk. This particular photo was taken in the backyard of Katie, who was my high school art teacher and continues to be an inspiration and good friend as well.
Everyone who knows Katie knows what I mean.

A & W Root Bear

2008-08-10T23:28:00.000-07:00

We have been very into rootbeer floats this past month. Especially lately with the warmer weather. A&W rootbeer is still my favorite after all of these years.
It has to be regular A&W. Diet A&W is not the same. Although I do admit that I have come to love the weird taste of Diet Coke. It's just Diet Coke that I like in Diet. Most sodas I would rather have regular. I am trying to cut down on soda, but that is a whole other blog post in itself. Right now I'm just talking about the pure enjoyment of a classic A&W rootbeer float.
On a sidenote: I love these Wacky Wobblers. This "root bear" would be in my collection of bobble heads if I had more room to collect. I'm trying to embrace the "let it go" way of thinking for cleaning out space. Yet, I keep holding onto things. Yes, I do have some ol' Dodger Bobble Heads around. Will I get rid of them? No, probably not. I am tempted to go to the LA Dodger game this Tuesday for the Joe Beimel Bobblehead promotional giveaway. My husband thinks I'm kidding, but if he seemed the slightest bit interested, I would totally go just for the bobble head.
On a super side note: the Summer Olympics have been fun to watch. Go USA! I've been watching the swimmer Phelps win some medals. He's amazing.
That's it for now.
Oh, and my little guy Z got a big boy bed this weekend. Yep, a twin size. He's not so little. Well, he is little, but he's out of his crib now. Watch out. Potty training? That's still on the horizon. He is aware of the potty, but doesn't want to really use it yet.

Park Slide

2008-08-02T16:10:00.001-07:00

Park Slide
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Another fun afternoon at the Park with A & Z.
They had too much.
Both of them did not want to leave and did their best to get in
"one last one" on the slide and playing in the sand.

Bobble Head Family

2008-07-27T16:57:00.001-07:00

Bobble Head Family
Originally uploaded by projectpink

Go Dodger Blue!
I know, I couldn't resist! I get promotional email from Dodger
Stadium because we go to the games when we can (maybe 3-4 times a season, then we watch the rest on TV). One of the emails was to create your own bobble head graphics.
Of course, how could I pass it up?
They are smart... you can see their website on the base of our bobble heads. http://www.xmbaseball.com/
Check it out to make your own and customize it to your favorite baseball team...although I highly suggest Dodger Blue.

More Bubbles!

2008-07-27T16:29:00.001-07:00

More Bubbles!, originally uploaded by projectpink.

He loves his bubbles!
We are breaking out the bubbles at least one or two times a day.
More bubbles please!
He takes his bubbles serious especially by the look on his face in this photo.
Usually he is screaming and laughing when doing bubbles. I caught him in a contemplative mood. He made sure I got his big bubble with my camera.
Fun summer days!

At the Park...A to Z.

2008-07-20T23:17:00.001-07:00

At the Park...A to Z., originally uploaded by projectpink.

Fun at the park from A to Z....
Adam and Zach.
A- Adam
B- Bugs
C-Climbing
D- Digging in sand
E- Excercise
F- Fun
G- Going, going, going...
H- Humming
I- Insects
J- Jokes
K- Kim (Adam's mom)
L - Laughing
M- Monster roars
N- No
O- On the go
P-Park
Q- Quite a lot to do at the park
R- Ride the plane
S- Sand Hill
T- Temper tantrum, not wanting to go home
U-Up and down the hill
V- Valerie (Zach's mom)
W- water breaks
X- xtra Sand in the shoes (and diapers)
Y- Yeah, that was fun!
Z- Zach

Beekeeper

2008-07-17T23:31:00.001-07:00

Beekeeper
Originally uploaded by V G.

David the beeman came to our house to take away the bees. http://www.davidthebeeman.com
He removes them without injuring them and takes them to a bee farm in Camarillo. We really liked him and his service.
Zach was excited about the whole process too. David asked Zach if he wants to be a beekeeper. Zach said "yes".

Aliki Grafft's Animation and Art

2008-07-16T23:30:00.001-07:00

Aliki Grafft's webpage
Originally uploaded by V G.

www.alikicarbonmade.com
www.girlsotg.com
Here are a couple more webpages for Aliki.
Cool animation and art stuff!
Thanks for the comment Aliki!
I had to post a sample of your website.
I really like your carbonmade site. Very cool!!!

These are the previously mentioned websites for Aliki below.
http://frederatorblogs.com/yaki_and_yumi/
http://www.martianpictures.com/aliki/home.html

Love is...

2008-07-13T23:07:00.001-07:00

Love is...
Originally uploaded by V G.

Love is...holding my son.
It really is. My back hurts but I still love it.
Last September my friend Aliki, who is a Disney animator, did this very cool drawing of my son and me. I've been meaning to post it. I saw Aliki today, so it reminded me that I been meaning to do this.
Thank you Aliki!
You can check out some of Aliki's art on her blog at:
http://frederatorblogs.com/yaki_and_yumi/
and at,
http://www.martianpictures.com/aliki/home.html
(I haven't had a chance to hotlink, so you'll have to do it the old fashioned way by copying and pasting these links into your browser.)
Aliki recently had a baby girl so her blogs haven't been updated in a while...but you can still see how wonderful her work is. She's been busy as a new mom and has started back to work.
She actually did this drawing in her last month of pregnancy. I feel so
lucky that she did this for me when she did. There's busy, then there is "really-really busy". New moms definitely fall into the "really-really busy" catagory. Thanks again Aliki! You rock! I will always treasure this drawing.

Bubbles

2008-07-13T03:05:00.001-07:00

Bubbles
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here's my friend Kelly's daughter, Valentina who I got to meet for the
first time on our 4th of July Santa Cruz visit. I also got to see Louise and her baby (Felix-4 months old). And, another friend Anna who has a baby in the belly right now due in August.
Bubbles, bubbles and more bubbles...
I've been doing lots of bubbles with my son lately. He loves them.
So good to see you Kelly!!!
I wish it was more often. Z had so much fun with V!

Painting is painting

2008-07-13T02:52:00.001-07:00

Painting
Originally uploaded by V G.

I'm taking another approach to painting.
Paint with son. Yes, it's a mess and doesn't last long...maybe
5-10 minutes...but it is so worth it.
He likes me to do a few brush strokes and drips.
Painting is painting and these days I take what I can get.
I did some painting touch-ups on the kitchen wall today...that's painting too. It's not the type of painting I prefer to be doing...but there is still that core: brush in paint on surface. Besides the pure material of paint, I love to see what my son actually does with the paint. It's amazing to see the freedom he has.
Then once we do painting, my son wants bubbles, then it's off to another thing, then another thing.

Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing

2008-07-08T23:19:00.001-07:00

Henry Cowell Redwood trail
Originally uploaded by V G.

"Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing, baby! Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing..." I couldn't help singing this song in my head.
I just got back from a nice trip to Santa Cruz, visiting family and seeing friends. It was very cool!

This photo is from a walk in the Henry Cowell Redwoods. I got to hang out with Michelle of "Green Kitchen" there and her 2 sons. The little guys took off running. If you zoom into the photo towards the base of the tree you will see them climbing over the rail together. Yep, trouble!

I saw some other friends I haven't seen in a long time too thanks to Facebook. I love the internet. But, as I started out saying, there "ain't nothing like the real thing". It is so true. I really loved seeing my friends.

I'll post more later...I'm up too late and have to get up too early.

Scary-cute

2008-06-29T23:48:00.001-07:00

Trying to be scary, but looking cute.
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here he is again.
This time trying to be scary, but looking cute.
We were at the park and he was in a scary monster "grrrrr..." mood.
To me, he just ended up looking too cute.

Golf

2008-06-23T23:46:00.001-07:00

Golf
Originally uploaded by V G.

We played golf this past Saturday. It was fun except for the parts that weren't fun. The fun part was that I played a tiny bit better than I did last time I played (although it didn't feel like it while I was playing...funny thing about golf). My husband shot his best game ever with a 79. The not so fun part was that the temperature was in the high 90's going up to 101, maybe 102 degrees. It was HOT.
I had the worst hole ever on the 18th going into the same water hazard 3 times ( or was it 4 times, I've blocked it out of my memory by now), right after I thought I had the worst hole ever on the 17th. Oh well... it happens. My excuse was the heat. Well, it was hot...it was kind of like survival out there that day. This photo caught me on a good moment...I think I may have just made a par...which was rare for me that day. On a positive note, I came close to making a birdie, but it eventually turned into a tap-in par. So, it gave me a little hope. I think I had 2 pars that day. Mostly boogies and double boogies. Anyway, I'm glad my husband got this photo of me. I look like I'm having a blast, which is just enough to keep me playing.

Wall-E

2008-06-18T23:07:00.001-07:00

Wall-E Billboard
Originally uploaded by V G.

My little guy loves this character Wall-E.
He first saw it on a billboard and couldn't stop looking at it.
Poor little guy even had a melt down over it. The conflict was that I wanted to "get buckled" to drive home and he wanted to keep looking at the Wall-E billboard. It was actually another Wall-E billboard with a large image of Wall-E looking at a bug on a white background that my little guy originally fell in love with. The billboard has been changed to this one since when we first saw it. I don't think we will see it when it is released at the theatres, only because our little guy is sensitive to sound. I think the theatre would be too loud and he would want to leave. We'll wait to see it at home on DVD.
***
On a sidenote, I recently joined Facebook. I been spending most of my on-line time there lately, hence my lack in posting to my blog. Once the intial "newness" of Facebook wears off, I'll be back to posting more regularly. So far I have been enjoying Facebook and reconnecting with some friends I have lost contact with. To be continued...

Squirrel was here.

2008-06-09T00:00:00.001-07:00

Squirrel was here.
Originally uploaded by V G.

A squirrel left this partially eaten peach on our fence.
Z, my little guy, has been amazed by watching the squirrel eat the peach. By the time I got my camera out, the squirrel had left leaving this on the fence.
Our neighbor has a peach tree which is producing little yummy looking peaches. The squirrel has been feasting lately. We are finding lots of peach pits all around the fence line of our backyard.

Mulch

2008-06-01T00:16:00.001-07:00

Mulch
Originally uploaded by V G.

Last week we went and got free mulch. There are places around LA hosted by the city that is for mulch pick-up. It's the first time we went to one. Here's a photo of it. It was great. It's just a big pile of mulch. You bring your own bag, buckets and/or shovels to haul it away. So far I put mulch around the base of the roses, our couple of fruit trees, the baby Gingko tree and the tomatoes. I just put in the tomatoes today. Getting the tomatoes in was my one big thing for this weekend. I was glad to get them in the ground. Last year, the tomatoes went wild. They loved it in our backyard. We'll see how they do this year.

Quirky but not Quirky

2008-05-29T00:29:00.001-07:00

White Castle Burgers
Originally uploaded by V G.

Quirky? Depends on your definition of quirky.
To me this list of things about me is quirky but not quirky.
That is, it's not quirky to me, but may seem quirky to you.
I live for quirky things!

1.) I love taking photos of my food. Perfect example is this photo of
White Castle Burgers that we had in Michigan recently. I've been known for my "sandwich" series of paintings which is part of this
quirky fascination with food. Although, I'm not quite as obsessed now as I was when I was doing the "sandwich" series. But, it still pops up!

2.) I *heart* love. I love love. I am in love with love. Does this make any sense? Another reason I love the comic "Love Is..." so much.

3.) Sunsets. If I am in the a place to see the sunset I have to look at it. If I have my camera I will take photos.

4.) When I drink Boba Milk Tea I imagine I could mingle with Madonna, talking about music, kids, and storybooks. Then, I could help design the graphics for her next performance.

5.) Even though I love LOVE, I still have a worse case scenario
default that happens in my mind. I find "what ifs" and come to conclusions, then do mock problem solving. I attribute this quirk to my creativity working overtime.

6.) I actually aspire to be more quirky, but motherhood and working full-time has mellowed me out. Which isn't a bad thing.

Patrice,

thank you for tagging me. Click on Patrice, to see more on Quirky.
Anyone want to volunteer to be tagged and make a list of 6 Quirks?

POW WOW

2008-05-24T01:46:00.001-07:00

POW WOW
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here's the Pow Wow at Walpole Island which borders Michigan and Ontario,Canada. The island is considered Canadian land.
Things are very green this time of year.
Z had fun with his cousin (in pink). They ran around like crazy.
I just tried to keep up with them all day.
We had fairly good weather. It rained for 15-20 minutes, then passed. Then it would rain again. Overall, we lucked out with the weather since this time of year you never know what you will get.
The Pow Wow was fun. I always enjoy the bright colors of the Native American dance wear. Since I don't go often, I at first felt very "white" even with my 50% of Native American blood from this specific tribe, Chippewa, who originated on Walpole Island. Soon later after eating fry bread, I found the sound of the pounding drums very familiar. This inspired me to dance with my son Z and his cousin out in the dance circle with all of the natives who were in their full dance wear. It was at a point in the Pow Wow when the announcer invites everyone to dance. It was fun and probably the most fun I had at the Pow Wow. The scattered showers cut our stay at the Pow Wow short, but it was just as well since we were travelling with little ones. Then we headed to a cousin of my deceased grandmother's who lives on Walpole Island for a bit. Upon leaving both little ones did not want to leave and both of them had meltdowns. That was not fun, but once we were driving it didn't take long for them to fall asleep in the car. It was interesting to see Walpole Island again. The last time I was there was 15 years ago. So yeah, I was due to go back again to see it. It was a nice time of year to go there.

H3 at the Ren Cen

2008-05-24T01:08:00.001-07:00

H3
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here's my little guy climbing into an
H3. Of course, how could he resist. This model was a golf cart size.
I've never seen such a mini Hummer.
It was cute, like a baby beast. We recently returned from
a trip to Michigan for a family reunion (for my mom, her sisters and cousins). We saw this H3 in Detroit at the Ren Cen, short for Rennaisance Center, which is the tallest building in Detriot. They had a display of cars on the first floor, which makes sense since it is the "motor city".

DO ART ANY TIME

2008-05-13T22:43:00.001-07:00

DO ART ANY TIME
Originally uploaded by V G.

I love this sign. This was in this past LA Times Sunday paper.
I usually don't get a chance to read the paper, but I was up early last Sunday just long enough to see this before my little man woke up. It is so inspiring.
http://www.islandsofla.com/
Go to this website to check out more about this. It is interesting and speaks to my inner actvist side that I used to enjoy expressing a lot during my art college days. It reminds me too that art is very much a state of mind and a point of view.
Here is the LA Times article. Copy and paste it in your browser.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/arts/la-ca-islands11-2008may11,0,840613.story

Back to Usual

2008-05-10T23:33:00.001-07:00

Beach
Originally uploaded by V G.

He's back to his usual funny self. You would never know that he was so sick last week. I'm glad for that. He is sleeping a little extra this week, but I think it's good for him. He lost at least 1 pound last week due to no appetite. Here he is full of energy stomping on an abandoned sand castle. He is very good at squashing sand castles.
It was an overcast day...a little cool, but not too cool. In a way it was perfect. Little guy loves the beach.

Happy Mother's day to all you moms out there!!!
Enjoy your day!

Kite

2008-05-10T23:04:00.001-07:00

Kite
Originally uploaded by V G.

Nothing like flying a kite.
Z took over holding the kite string to find out that the wind really does pull.
He immediately screamed for me to take back the kite. He held the kite just long enough for me to get a photo which I am amazed I was able to do.
He liked flying the kite. We had another small dragon kite from Target that looked cute in package, but didn't fly very well. It spun around in a spiral and crashed almost every time I tried getting it to fly. Oh well, it's still a cute kite. Hmm... I still have the package. If I can find the reciept for the dragon kite, maybe I'll return it. It seems like a kite should be able to fly. I had a feeling that the dragon kite might not fly well, but I loved how it looked. So much for looks. The kite in this photo flys like a charm. It's simple and wonderful... I love it when things work.

Snail Speed

2008-05-05T23:02:00.001-07:00

Snail Speed
Originally uploaded by V G.

I feel like I've been going snail speed lately, but at least I'm going.
Part of it has to do with my son being sick with a double ear infection, which includes periodic red ears, high fever and vomiting.
Any kind of art attempt gets put on the backburner (again).
So, like a snail I'm going at a slow pace, but I keep going.
Remember the story of the Tortoise and the Hare?
Since my son is sick, I'd better get to sleep while I can before he wakes up and NEEDS me. He isn't sleeping well with a stuffy nose to add to his list of current ailments.
I hope everyone is staying healthy out there.

Camping at Refugio

2008-04-27T22:59:00.001-07:00

Hiking
Originally uploaded by V G.

This was the reason for my recent lapse in on-line blogging activity.
It was camping at Refugio near Santa Barbara. It was a nice trip and went by too fast. We stayed 3 nights. We met long time friends Shanna, Mark and Max from SC there. Max is one year older than our little guy. They had extreme amounts of fun playing in the dirt and sand. It was a great trip. I give it high marks as far as campsites go.
My only complaint is that it was very windy at night. We were warm in our sleeping bags, but the sound of wind ripping through at all hours of the night makes for a light sleep. That's when the RV lifestyle looks appealing. I still want to travel by RV one day...just for a week.
I know they are gas hogs, but maybe just a little RV. That doesn't make sense does it, a little RV? You know what I mean, just one that isn't the hugest beast out there but has all of the cool RV things.
Anyway, there is still something cool about just a tent too. We enjoyed it. I'm fine as long as I am warm and the sleeping air mattress has air, I'm good. Oh, and my morning coffee, then I'm set.

Growth

2008-04-12T23:43:00.001-07:00

Growth
Originally uploaded by V G.

I love that flowers are emerging and budding.
We have a tiny (right now) Ginko Biloba tree in our backyard that we
planted about 4 months ago. We thought we killed it. All of the leaves had fallen off. It looked like a Charile Brown Christmas tree, but even worse without any green leaves. Happily, we discovered
these new buds emerging just last week. I was so excited. They are even bigger now. I'm still learning about
growing trees and plants. I think the most important thing still seems to be regular watering.
This is what I do in between everything else. It's feels very rewarding to see a tree or plant thrive.
I'm still slowly priming my art panels...so no photos of these yet. I did a coat of primer today.
I have enough layers on a couple of them now which means that I could start painting. Hmm? Soon...I can't wait. In terms of my art at this time in my life, I can really relate to this little Ginko Biloba tree.

Wood Panels.

2008-04-05T23:20:00.001-07:00

Wood Panels.
Originally uploaded by V G.

This is a recent purchase. These are Mahogany and Birch panels to paint on. I love this surface to paint on.
I got them from a local panel and canvas maker (www.cksart.com).
Chris at CKS does an excellent job making these panels.
Little by little I am getting back to my art and it feels SO GOOD!
Tonight I even made it to an art reception at Bergamot Station for
a former teacher of mine, Tim Ebner. He's a painter.
He is showing at the Rosamund Felson gallery.
To be continued on the art panels...
This photo shows them lined up to get a coat of sealer.
I'm excited. I can wait to put a couple more coats on them and start painting-painting.

Hollywood Sign

2008-03-30T22:58:00.001-07:00

Hollywood_sign_web
Originally uploaded by V G.

It was a magical morning hike in Griffith Park. We saw the Hollywood sign in the distance with some fog lifting over the hills. Things are looking so lush and green right now at this time of year. The mustard seed plants are adding color too.
We are reminded that it might be a good time to see the poppy fields out in the dessert soon. I think my son would like to see that.

Headless Peeps

2008-03-24T21:39:00.001-07:00

Headless Peeps
Originally uploaded by V G.

My son loved eating the heads off the peeps. We ended up with
almost a pack full of headless peeps. It's toddler thinking at its best.
He gave me all of his headless peeps. "Here mommy! Eat it!" He'd give them to me all sticky and freshly bitten off with toddler drool.

Bunny Ears on Mommy

2008-03-24T21:16:00.001-07:00

Bunny Ears, close-up
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here I am as mommy in bunny ears gearing up for the Easter egg hunt. We had an easter egg hunt for little man at grandma and grandpa's (husband's parents) house. It was fun. Classic Easter!
Chocolate bunnies, candy...speaking of which I can't seem to stop sneaking bits of chocolate. I love chocolate. It is my other weakness after caffiene.

Bunny Ears

2008-03-24T21:08:00.001-07:00

Bunny Ears
Originally uploaded by V G.

I tried getting more shots with my little man wearing the bunny ears, but they fell off almost immediately. He jumped around like a bunny which made them fall off. Or, he started running.

Green Hands & Eggs

2008-03-24T20:26:00.001-07:00

Green Hands & Eggs
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here he is again.
He liked the egg holder but getting green hands was too much fun.
It took a while for it to come off, but it was worth the pure dipping
fun.

Toddler Talks Art

2008-03-18T22:49:00.001-07:00

We went to the Rosamund Felson Gallery at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica, CA this past weekend and saw the work of Steve Hurd.
Click here to check out the Rosamund Felson Gallery

This is my little man talking art describing the globe shape and how it is slightly deflated. It was once a fine plastic global ball shape fully inflated and pure. Now after some time has passed a slow leak has produced a deflated piece of plastic which is not holding it's former shape. Actually I don't know what he is thinking, it just looks like he is seriously describing this painting. As you may have guessed, my appetite for art is again being fed. My standards are
being raised back up. Sorry Starbucks.

Starbucks Bathroom Art

2008-03-13T00:10:00.001-07:00

Starbucks Bathroom Art
Originally uploaded by V G.

Ok, you know I'm getting desperate for art when I begin to admire art in the bathroom at Starbucks. When I saw this I had to take a photo on my cellphone. First of all, it is a print of a painting mounted onto a frame. So, does it even qualify as real art? Either way, I have to admit, I still do like it for it's simple
graphics combined with an abstract quality. Somebody, somewhere painted the original, Photoshoped it or created it. Plus, I'm a coffee addict.
I know it's better to keep it in moderation, but I still tend to overdue my coffee intake at times. I do like the coffee cup symbol. A couple other things I like about them are their size and shape. Ever since the Sandwich series, I have favored a small square format. There is something nice about it. The other thing that seems funny to me and very modern art in a Duchampian way is the air freshner mounted to the top of the first painting. Odd, funny and reminds us we are in a bathroom. It is a very space specific piece which also has roots in
a lot of installation type of art. I could write a ton more on this, but to get back to my point, I have been a little starved for art.
The heart sees what it wants to see. I'm happy to report that since my last post and before I saw this art at Starbucks I did start a painting. It is a square shape almost the same as these I saw at Starbucks.

Ahhhhh...

2008-03-05T23:18:00.001-08:00

Ahhhhh...
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here he is. He's mostly happy...but don't get me wrong, he has his terrible 2 moments too.
I've been gearing myself up for doing some paintings.
But, I get interrupted alot. Like almost all of the time.
Ok, I have a good excuse...here he is.
He will not be little forever. It already seems like a time warp.
At the beginning of the year I wanted to do a small sketch-a-day.
Well, that hasn't been happening. Now I'm shooting for sketch-per-month. When the time is right it will happen. I'm sure of that, so I'm not worried. Yes I am. No I'm not. Ok, I am a little worried, but I do believe it will happen. It will. Think positive. OK, I really have to start painting soon.

Self Portrait : 2008

2008-03-02T22:14:00.001-08:00

Self Portrait 2008
Originally uploaded by V G.

I took this self portrait last weekend. It's a follow-up to my last blog post with my photo from 1988.
Here I am 20 years later. Can you believe it?
I would probably have the same smile as my other photos except I took the photo of myself. It's strange taking a photo of yourself and saying, "Smile" to yourself when you about ready to press the button.
It's just as strange doing a self-portrait painting. The self portait paintings tend to look even more serious, usually since it encompasses concentrating on painting and trying to hold a pose too. I used to do lots more self portrait paintings,especially in 1988. Now, I take a lot of photos of my son and whatever else is going on.
The focus for me these days is usually not on self, but I decided to do it for old times sake.

1988

2008-02-24T22:22:00.001-08:00

1988
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here I am as a student at ACCD. I just noticed that I have a rip in my backpack strap, too. Those were the starving student days.
By this time I totally let my hair grow with no more perms. I haven't had a perm since 1987 (thank god). At the time of Art Center during the holidays when I saw my family, my mom commented that I looked pale and my hair was too long. I had lost my tan. I was totally immersed in college life, sometimes doing all-nighters to get projects done. It was another memorable time in my life. I still have some of my art projects buried in the garage collecting dust and spider webs. I have thrown out a lot of it since...but I hung onto a few pieces. So, that's me in 1988.

1987

2008-02-24T15:13:00.001-08:00

1987
Originally uploaded by V G.

1987!
What a year. So many memories...
From left to right, Kelly (high school friend), Nina (exchange student from Denmark), Georgia (native Italian), and me on the beach in Sestri Levante, Italy.
Here is my world in a nutshell for 1987. I graduated high school. I went to Sestri Levante, Italy as an exchange student, living with a family in Italy for a month in the summer. Then, a student stayed with my family for a month the same summer. I was accepted to Art Center College of Design and began my study there the same year in the fall.
I was very tan back then since I had so much time to go to the beach everyday. Since it was the 80's, I had a perm which was kind of a crazy perm. I liked it kind of crazy back then.
I had big earrings which I made myself in my high school jewelry class. My favorite pair were these big yellow enamel baked ones that I am wearing in this photo. I almost always wore a madonna-esque tie thing in my hair. Although at the time I was anti-Madonna. It's funny because now I really like Madonna. I even love her 80's music. I really love her current music.
That was a big year for me...lots of memories!

Super Brocoli

2008-02-17T17:03:00.001-08:00

Super Brocoli
Originally uploaded by V G.

We went to visit my friends Dawn and Mike to see their new garden.
My son got to pick out a brocoli to take home. He loves brocoli, which is good because he doesn't like a lot of other vegetables. He got to wear his Superman shirt and cape today. He took a break from it for about a week, but rediscovered it again today.

Mmmm Cupcakes!

2008-02-08T23:17:00.001-08:00

Mmmm Cupcakes!
Originally uploaded by V G.

We made cupcakes tonight in honor
of grandma's b-day. (Husband's mom)
My son LOVES cupcakes! Who doesn't?
He had fun mixing the batter with mommy
and putting extra-extra sprinkles on our
super chocolate cupcakes. I must be
coming up on my period...chocolate craving.
Since my last post, I am still experiencing
being sick. I actually went to the
DR today since it is taking so long to get better. The DR says I'm at the tail end of a viral cold-flu, but it may still take a little while to fully recover. He gave me a prescription which is a tiny bit more
powerful than a Sudafed Mulit-symptom tablet. We'll see.
I have hope that I'm on the mend.
So, I'm still trying to take it easy.

Nasal Congestion #3

2008-02-06T21:37:00.001-08:00

Nasal Congestion #3
Originally uploaded by V G.

I'm on day 5 of my cold. This photo is from day 3 of my waste basket with tissues. It reminded me of modern sculpture. Beautiful and gross at the same time. Wickedly sick! I've been blowing my nose every 5 mintues it seems. I have missed 2 days of work so far...and probably should have stayed home today, but I didn't want to miss the day's activities. Now, it's time for me to retreat again to trying to sleep with a stuffy nose. It's not easy.
Back to bed for me.
Stay healthy.

Between Storms

2008-01-30T19:57:00.001-08:00

Between Storms
Originally uploaded by V G.

This was between storms. The water flooded parts of the sidewalk.
How can a toddler resist? The boots kept him dry for the first minute until he started running at full speed through the puddle.
Fun, fun, fun...!

Super Water Play

2008-01-20T23:00:00.001-08:00

Super Water Play
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here's my son with the hose in his Superman shirt and cape.
He would not settle for anything less than his Superman shirt and cape this day. "I want to put on Superman." he told us. Nope, not Spiderman. No truck shirts. No dinosaurs.
Certainly not a stripe print.
It had to be Superman with the cape. He was Superman all day.
When I saw him with the hose, I had to get a photo of him. He was so excited to be the one with the hose. Priceless. This is one of those "happy to be a mom" moments. From the look on Superman's face, it's a "happy to be a kid" moment.

Beauty and the Cheese

2008-01-17T23:02:00.001-08:00

Beauty
Originally uploaded by V G.

I couldn't resist posting this.
Can you say "kitsch"?
I just went on a rant in my head and in email format to a friend (you know who you are) about an essay on "Beauty" by Jeremy Gilbert-Rolfe. I was remembering former art instructors, when suddenly Jeremy came to mind. He was a big influence on me during my time in art school. I recently admitted to never being able to get through one of his essays in one sitting. Then, I recently tried to read and get through "Beauty", but fell short about three quarters of the way through the reading with a huge headache. Jeremy has a way with words which exercise the mind. I can only describe my fascination with Jeremy in a "love-hate" kind of way. I admire him for his attempt at trying to describe something which is practically undescribable from my "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" point of view. I also admire him for his English accent and cranky view on American art production. What I do not like is that I am still trying to figure out Jeremy. This just emphasizes the influence he has made on me. So, when I saw this factory sewn, "Those who look for beauty find it" I thought of Jeremy. I'm sure he would cringe at this, but might get a slight kick out of it because it is so NOT him, but is him in a weird way. It's Jeremy in a kitsch form. I wonder if other students who had Jeremy as an instructor would agree?

Doll on a Stick at the Beach

2008-01-11T20:05:00.001-08:00

Doll at the Beach
Originally uploaded by V G.

We saw this doll on a stick at the beach today.
She was propped up looking at the ocean. She had sand all over her. Fresh from the ocean and still damp, she gazed into the ocean blue. "Oh where, oh where has my blow dryer gone?" She had a rough night but is making the most of her afternoon, soaking in some rays.

Self Portrait

2008-01-09T00:35:00.001-08:00

Self Portrait
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here's a quick sktech.
Normally I wouldn't post such a thing, but
I'm trying to keep doing it. It's me sketching on my little 4x6" pad.
I feel like the arch in my right eye is becoming more exaggerated.
I drew it more exaggerated than it really is.

Happy Blogiversary to me!

2008-01-08T23:37:00.001-08:00

Happy Blogiversary to me!
Originally uploaded by V G.

It has been one year of blogging for me, since Jan.6th, 2007.
My thanks go to Michelle at Green Kitchen for encourgaging me to start a blog in the first place. ("Hi" Michelle!) Her blog inspired me to start one.
I was hoping that by my first blogiversary I would have had a chance to "pimp my blog", but I have not. I did extend my blog header a little with the pink night owl painting on the side. The Holidays went by in a blink.
I had no major plans, but I was busy the whole time. All I need to say is, "Toddler in the house". Say no more, I think you get the picture.
Why sand and shell particles? I'm not really sure either. I just like
looking at these details sometimes.

Palm Tree Drawing

2008-01-05T16:27:00.001-08:00

Palm Tree Drawing
Originally uploaded by V G.

Here's one of my new year's resolutions that I started doing on January 1st: quick sketching. Which reminds me I should do another one today. I'd prefer to do a bunch a day, but now with a toddler, I'm lucky to get in anything. However, I must persist.
I have a tiny sketchbook 4 x6", super portable with a felt tip pen.
I'm going to go sketch right now while the little one is taking a nap.
I'm sure as soon as my pen hits the paper he will wake up. 1,2,3,...GO!

Sunset: January 1st, 2008

2008-01-02T23:19:00.001-08:00

Sunset: January 1st, 2008
Originally uploaded by V G.

This was the ultimate way to start the New Year.
Happy New Year everyone!
I'm a sucker for an intense sunset.
It has been a while that I have seen a sunset like this.
Truely "awesome" in all sense of the word.

White Christmas

2007-12-26T22:29:00.001-08:00

White Christmas
Originally uploaded by V G.

We had a White Christmas, involving a 1 hour drive there and 1 hour back trip. We didn't spend too much time out in the snow, but it was very memorable and worth the drive.
It was me, Z, my husand and G'ma (my husband's mom).
We drove up to Wrightwood Ski Resort and played in the "no snowplay" zone. We were getting a kick out of the sign that says "no snowplay" and watching all of the people who obviously did not
pay attention to the sign either. On Christmas day it seemed like a hard rule to enforce. There were also so many people disobeying the sign that it would have been hard to stop. We didn't last long in the cold, but we were very happy for the memory of Z's first snow experience.

This is Not a Rock.

2007-12-16T23:24:00.001-08:00

This is Not a Rock.
Originally uploaded by V G.

Z says: This is not a rock.
V says: What is it?
Z: says: It's a heart

This was at the beach today. We had a beautiful Magritte surrealist moment.
Z saw me (V) drawing a heart in the sand just minutes before he (Z) found this heart.

I heart that Z found this heart and declared that it was not a rock.

Mama love.

"Hotdog" painting

2007-12-08T23:19:00.001-08:00

Hotdog
Originally uploaded by V G.

This "Hotdog" painting was for an art auction benefit for PAWS/LA in 2003. 12 x12" acrylic on canvas.
I was reminded of this painting due to a mini PowerPoint presentation I did today at San Bernardino Valley College with my very good friend, my art collaborator, Meredith (Fine Art Photography). We were invited to talk to the painting class there when the painting instructor found out we were making a trip out to visit the art gallery. So, it was a fun day of talking and thinking of art. In preparation for the talk, I got to look through some digital files of paintings on my computer, the ones I could find, to make this presentation. A project I still have yet to do is organize my digital files of paintings. I still have them on different computers in various folders, with titles I may have forgotten until I start browsing my hard drive. Back to this painting... The dog is Elmo Diddle, Meredith's dog, who let me take photos of and study her dog curled up like a hot dog. The main reason for our visit out to San Bernardino Valley College Art Gallery was to see the new gallery space and start thinking of our proposal for an art show. In 1999, Meredith and I did a colloborative work called Pet/Circus at SBVC Art Gallery before it moved to the new building it is in now.
We did this show before either of us had kids, so preparing for a
new show now will be a lot more challenging time wise, but easier in other ways. At any rate, I'm excited about it and just as curious as anyone else as to what we will come up with. We have some ideas brewing which I'm sure I'll post about more as we get more into it.
We think this project may happen next fall in 2008. I'd better start painting now.

Native American Dancer

2007-12-06T00:17:00.001-08:00

Native American Dancer
Originally uploaded by V G.

This Native American did a dance and storytelling at my son's daycare last Friday for their annual Fall Festival. I was very impressed with him and how he presented himself. He told a story of the flute and did some samples of different Native American dances. Part of me (I'm sure it's the 50% Chippewa) wants to know more about the Native American stories. Over this past Thanksgiving my mom, who is 100% Chippewa reminded me that Iron Eyes Cody, Hollywood's most famous Indian, was not really even an Indian. Ironically, he fooled just about everyone, even myself when I was young. He was a good actor and really lived the part. I'm going off on a tangent here, but an interesting fact is that my grandma lived next door to Iron Eyes Cody in Silverlake, CA when I was very young for many years. When visiting my grandma, I got to go next door and visit Iron Eyes Cody and had always believed he was an Indian. He had many great Indian costumes. My grandma was a good friend to him. Iron Eyes attended my grandmother's funeral in 1992. Just Google "Iron Eyes Cody" and see the Wikipedia definition. It's interesting. In his heart and soul, he was a Native American. And...going back to this image I posted, it reminded me of
how little I know of my Native American heritage. One day I'd like to explore more of the storytelling.

Dandelions Rock!

2007-11-27T23:06:00.001-08:00

Dandelions Rock!
Originally uploaded by V G.

Rock On!
Toddlers know what's happening.
I would buy it.
Actually the nuts and bolts of this image came out of a "bummer" accident when I had the wrong setting on my camera, totally overexposing some cool photos of my son. I still loved the images and was kicking myself in the butt that I had the wrong setting. I was desperately trying to salvage them in some way.
Then, "Ah ha!" tonight it hit me how cool overexposure can be when used with a purpose, like fashion or music cover art.
Did I ever mention I like fantasy?

Acorns

2007-11-18T23:30:00.001-08:00

Acorns
Originally uploaded by V G.

I went for a hike this Sunday with my son. We walked. I carried him about a third of the way. He's getting better and better about walking. It used to be one half of the time that I'd have to carry him.
He's two years old. Say no more. We make a lot of stops. One stop was to look at acorns on the ground. For me it was looking and arranging. For my son, it is looking, picking up, and throwing. He especially likes to find the things I arrange so that he can pick it up and throw it. Here's a little cirlce of acorns I arranged before they were randomly scattered again by my son.
Happy Thanksgiving fellow bloggers!

I Want to See Wicked!

2007-11-11T22:58:00.001-08:00

I Want to See Wicked!
Originally uploaded by V G.

We were in Hollywood last weekend and walked by the Pantages Theatre. I've been hearing great things about Wicked, the Musical.
Tonight the Wizard of OZ was on TV and reminded me of wanting to see Wicked. I always love Glinda, the good witch and still hate the Wicked Witch of the West. From what I hear, Wicked is the story of Glinda and the Wicked Witch during their formative years. Maybe I will get a chance to see Wicked one day? It's also funny that the Wizard of OZ was on tonight, because my son has been playing with my witch hat. I call him the wizard. When I wear it, I am the witch. Whoever has the hat on chases the others around the house.
Anyway, you may be wondering why I was walking around Hollywood near twighlight? I was going to the PAWS/LA art auction at the Avalon with my husband and son to see how
the exhibit turned out. I got to see my Pink Night Owl painting for the last time. It turns out that we won a bid in the silent auction for a Meredith Parmelee photograph on canvas, "3 birds". This was a nice surprise since Meredith is a great friend and I LOVE her work. We didn't stay at the auction for long, but apparently long enough to be a high bidder in the silent auction.

Flying a Kite

2007-11-03T00:03:00.001-07:00

Flying a Kite
Originally uploaded by V G.

This afternoon we flew a kite. My son was so excited. He got this kite for his 2 year birthday in September. We finally got it out to fly this afternoon. It was the perfect wind conditions. You can see how excited he was to be at the beach with his new kite.

Spider Toddler and Spider Witch Mom

2007-10-31T23:19:00.001-07:00

Spider and Spider Witch
Originally uploaded by V G.

Happy Halloween!
OK, I did it. I dressed up. It was not a major costume, but it's a costume. I used to love to dress up as a witch when I was around
10-13 years old. One year as a witch I used stuff to make warts on my face and painted my face green. I remember it was very itchy.
This year I went with the spider theme for my witch costume to go with my son's spider costume. It's hard to tell from this photo, but the hat has a metallic rainbow spider web print on it. I have some spider jewelry on and a spider ring. Zach loved being a spider. He has seen the orb weavers in our yard this past spider season.

Scarecrow Heads

2007-10-31T23:08:00.001-07:00

Scarecrow Heads
Originally uploaded by V G.

I love these themed painted boards that have holes cut out to stick your head in. They are cheesy and fun and I love-love-love them!
This is at a pumpkin patch.

Pumpkin Season

2007-10-21T22:21:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Season
Originally uploaded by V G.

Yes, we are fully in pumpkin season. I'm still in denial that we are already in Oct. 2007. Yikes. However, I do love this time of year.
Here's a photo of my little guy trying to get the big pumpkins, of course.
I was thinking of doing a costume for myself this year, but I'm now feeling like I do want to keep it SIMPLE. By simple, I mean simple. I'm thinking I will just wear orange and black on halloween. But, like I said in my previous post, it's still not too late to throw together a costume. We'll see what happens.
Happy October-almost-Halloween to everyone!

Spider Costume

2007-10-13T00:19:00.001-07:00

Spider Costume
Originally uploaded by V G.

October? What? Where is the time going?
I can't believe we are at the last 2 1/2 months of the calendar for 2007.
Anyway,
My son is going to be a spider this Halloween. Here he is testing out the costume from Babystyle. I have been so obsessed with spiders these past couple of years. It's not because I love spiders, it's because I fear spiders, especially venomous black widows which have been spotted on our property. It's almost the end of Orb Weaver spider season. We have been watching them build their webs. My son knows about Orb Weavers and that they make big spider webs.

For me, I already bought myself an orange t-shirt with a black crow printed on it from Target. Yeah, I'm going super simple this year. Orange and black, SIMPLE. But wait, I still have time to make my spider costume. Oh, I do have time? I know, but I don't want to go through the whole pulling together a costume thing again this year. But, we were so cute last year. Yeah, that was last year. C'mon wouldn't it be cool if I did a black widow costume to match my son? I could do it simple. I knew this was going to happen...I probably will throw some sort of costume together at the last minute. It's in my blood. OK, maybe I'll make an attempt. If it's a total disaster I can use my orange tee with black crow print for a back-up. We'll see. No pressure.
Classic.

Giant Hot Dog on Roof.

2007-10-08T22:56:00.001-07:00

Giant Hot Dog on Roof.
Originally uploaded by V G.

This hot dog was spotted on Hollywood Blvd. and Western Blvd. in LA.
It's a classic old school roof top sign. I love it. I like how the onions
are square chunks. It's an oldie but goodie. It's getting kind of run down, but the essence is still there.