Birthday Surprise

My Mom is going to be 79 on July 6th and I've been trying to figure out something unique that I can give her. I thought that a book with birthday greetings from around the world would be a wonderful surprise. If you don't mind would you please send her an email birthday greeting and let her know where in the world the greeting is coming from. If you will just email to this address michelewln@aol.com. I will then print them and put them in a booklet with pictures from various parts of the world and give it to her on her birthday.

Father's Day

Today is Father's Day in the US. It is kind of a bittersweet day for me since we are celebrating it without Dad. Today has been a day of memories for me though. My Dad was a World War Two veteran. I wish they had finished the WWII memorial in his lifetime. I would have loved to take him to see it.   It is the little things I am remembering today especially his sense of humor. I remember taking him to the first Star Wars movie. His first comment on leaving the movie was "target practice at 0800 hours." I remember having an extra ticket to see John Denver and asking him along. I thought he was just being kind since my car was on the fritz and he was driving but on the way home he started talking about how much he loved John Denver's music and how happy he was to have seen him live. I remember his asking if I wanted to throw a football or play softball with him. He was never sure what do with an only daughter and was thrilled when I turned out to athletic. Only one of the four boys turned out that way so Dad taught me all the sports he loved. I remember the "uncola" glass at my Aunt's place one Easter. 7-Up had come out with an upside down coke glass as a promotional. Dad called out to me "Michele quick put you hand under the glass the bottom just broke." I did and he laughed so hard he almost dropped the glass.   So Dad thanks for all the laughter and the love that I remember on this special day. And for all fathers everywhere I hope you and your love ones enjoy this day.  

Phoenix Rising

I have had a picture in my mind for several years of a phoenix rising out of the sun. I've done a couple of versions in acrylics but they didn't come out exactly right. It took almost three weeks but this version is finally what I was aiming for.