Saturday, April 30, 2011

Blossoms Galore


The sun finally decided to make an appearance today. The sky was a deep blue today, and the trees are full of magnificent colors. Enjoy the photos.








Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Sharing More of My Students' Artwork


Here's to teaching another group of wonderfully talented students at Crestwood's adult education program. We just wrapped up the spring semester, and I thought I'd share some of the students' artwork with you.


The last three pictures were painted by students who had no prior experience with watercolors. As you can see, they did an amazing job.



Saturday, April 23, 2011

Chizzy's In The House!


Since the Gray Baby's left town, Julius and Chiseler are back to their old routines. I washed the cat house that the Gray Baby used to call home, and I washed all the blankets. Now Julius and Chiseler take turns sleeping in the cat house. I guess you can call it a timeshare for kitties.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Hearts On My Mind

Sometimes the neatest things appear on your palette when you least expect it.

Saturday, April 9, 2011

Estate Sales


Here's to another fun-filled Saturday spent at several different estate sales in Kingston. Our first stop was at a house on South Dawes Avenue. Since I often jog by this house, I was curious to see what it looked like inside. I'm going to miss saying hello to the woman who lived there with her scruffy, little poodle named Muffin.


From the outside, one would never dream that the house would have so many interesting rooms, such as the one with the fireplace. The ceiling was so high, and there was so much light. This room would make a great studio.


This is the breezeway between the house and the attached garage.


There's nothing like the old sparkle of vintage, glass ornaments. Although they've seen better days, I'm sure they'd still look great on a Christmas tree.


~ Old, aluminum cake trays~


I like how the shelves are accessible via both sides of the wall. As you can see, there's nothing but junk sitting on the shelves.


~ Artwork on the face of an old TV tray ~


If anything, estate sales are great places to pick up good books. I already have the book on the right, but I thought one of my friends would enjoy reading it. I never heard of the other author, but for a quarter, you can't go wrong.

Thursday, April 7, 2011

The Gray Baby Update


The Gray Baby is officially in good hands as of this afternoon. After desperately searching for a good home for this adorable, little kitten, a neighbor gave me the name of a contact at the Delaware Valley Second Chance For Animals.

I immediately called the number and was thrilled to learn that they are, in fact, a no-kill shelter that seeks to find good homes for stray cats. I was also happy to hear that there was room for the Gray Baby. Several other no-kill animal shelters in our area never have room for strays when I call.

John was in charge of meeting with our contact, and she was kind enough to stop by our place to pick up the Gray Baby. I'll miss the Gray Baby, but I know he's in good hands, and I'm confident he'll find a good home. 

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Watercolor Inspiration


I have the pleasure of teaching some very talented students at Crestwood's Adult Education Program. I'd like to share some of my students' watercolors with you. Mark paints magnificent landscapes (above and below).



For a first-time watercolor student, Renee is doing a great job with her painting (above).


As always, Eleanor does a fantastic job with her landscapes (above and below). Her colors look like pastels.


The following paintings are various murals at Crestwood High School. I've always admired the workmanship of these murals. The students did a fantastic job.



The eyes say it all. This student definitely captured the insanity of Dali.


This is my favorite mural in the school. The artist's name is Rachael Acri, and the mural is dated 1987.


Monday, April 4, 2011

Junkin' in New Jersey


There's nothing better than spending a Sunday afternoon perusing through old junk at The Berlin Farmer's Market in Berlin, New Jersey. Save for the whipping wind, the weather was perfect for a day filled of junkin'.I love the turquoise color of these glass bottles.


It turns out that the bottles were made at Wheaton Village in Millville, New Jersey. If you ever get a chance to visit Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, do so. The museum of glass is filled with wonderful objects, and you can take a variety of different glass workshops and see glass-making demonstrations.


~ old gasoline cans ~


Although the sky was clear, I didn't see any seagulls. They're usually diving down at the people looking for food. Jersey seagulls will eat anything.


~ Inside Charlie's Clam Bar ~


They're all lined up for clams and oysters. I've never eaten at Charlie's Clam Bar simply because I'm always full after a good breakfast at the Stratford Diner. Perhaps one of these days I'll give it a try.