wondering and hoping


:wondering what shape it will take, graphite, handmade watercolor, pinholes on paper, 10" x 12"

:: this drawing expresses my feeling for this morning. I'm excited about things coming up and optimistic about the possibilities.
I hope you have something{s} growing a sense of promise in your life today...

I like the Dutch derivative of the word hope: hoop

inspiration: two ceramic artists

: The lovely ceramic work of Bibbi Forsman in her current show at K.H.V.C in Orebro is truly worth a look. Her blog is a favorite of mine to visit.

:: Another ceramic artist's work Annette Gates and her installation of "evidence of things unseen" is also inspiring to me. Her sculptural work is slip-cast white porcelain. I had the pleasure of meeting Annette this spring when she and I were each teaching workshops at Arrowmont.

::: above ::: starting a new pinhole piece, Formation VII.

beautiful day


At lunch M. and I actually picked up some sub sandwiches {after running a couple errands} and went to eat at the park by the river. The KU rowing team was preparing to practice but we had to leave before they set out in the water. Our picnic lunch together was certainly a rare treat! My lunches {that I pack for teaching days} usually consist of half a PB/J sandwich, carrot & celery sticks, and an apple. I need to shake it up a little, I know.
This afternoon I took a walk to admire the colors. It was so sunny and bright I couldn't resist. We had a frost advisory last night which seemed to intensify the colors.
While it was sunny here, I know there are parts of the country that would really like some rain, ie. the west and southeast. Hoping for some relief for them soon.

: marker drawings by a preschooler.

Pay it Forward continues...

Hmmm, I have decided to change the rules a little bit (also) to the PIF exchange, for several reasons.

1} two additional people were interested in joining beyond the first three comments. (so Bibbi & Calana if you're still interested in joining... :)
2} I would like to keep it open to more people because what it really means is the generosity will continue even more through those who sign up!
3} I have recently seen alot of generosity floating around and think it's fantastic. (more on this later...)
4} I was inspired by Jude, who first decided to change the "rules" to the PIF exchange, due to her overwhelming response. (way to go Jude!)
5} the original "rules" do state that we have 365 days to complete the handmade gifts, so that allows time to make more!

So if you're interested my PIF is still OPEN to additional participants! I will post a list on the side of this blog of people who join. (I view the comments before they're posted so I know you were here and can respond; so don't worry if your comment doesn't show up right away.)

Here's the original rules to paste into your blog that I got from Angie at Cozy Nest:
To quote the process of the exchange and extend the invitation to you:

    "I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. I don’t know what that gift will be yet and you may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it within 365 days, that is my promise! The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog."

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I hope you've enjoyed a nice weekend and your new week starts smoothly!

:: One of my drawings is part of Florence Forrest's mosaic monday this week. Thanks Florence!