I love to Dream, live to Create and hope to Inspire!

2012-01-28T13:31:00.001-05:00

Bluebird in meadow of wildflowers

A couple of months ago I saw this picture on Pinterest and it inspired me to paint the bird in this beautiful "misty meadow" on a wildflower stalk. I loved the way it turned out and think everyone that learned how to paint it yesterday did such an amazing job!

Loved hearing all the "oooh's and awwww's" in class.

Didn't get a picture of my friend Nicole - she had to leave early and Sue won the drawing and got to take home my picture but she couldn't be with us in class cause she just had hand surgery earlier in the week! We missed you Sue!

I love the way this turned out so much that I'm painting it on a 12x24 long gallery wrapped canvas right now - will share the pic with you when I get it done!

Lanelle

Beverlyn

Sherry

Glo

Ann

Patty

Roz

Sandi

Patti

Karen

Hope you have a wonderful weekend! Getting ready for another class on Monday - we're painting hollyhocks! Enjoying this beautiful weather too - feels like Spring and seeing daffodils blooming in January just isn't right but I'm not complaining ~ would rather be hot than cold any day!

Blessings,
Sandy

2012-01-22T16:23:00.001-05:00

Have a fabulous week! Blessings, Sandy

2012-01-16T13:34:00.001-05:00

Landscape Workshop

Saturday we painted a landscape with trees and a meadow of Texas bluebonnets. It was nice to not RUSH through the painting and take time to talk about clouds, shadows, light source, etc.

Everyone did a beautiful job and many were going to continue painting bluebonnets on their canvas when they got home. I did the class and the top painting here in acrylics but then showed them how to paint the same project using wOils (2nd painting down).

Have a feeling many will paint over their acrylic with the oils too!

wOils

Monica

Sue

Ann

Beverlyn

Glo

Lanelle

Patty

Barb

Roz

Sherry

It was nice to get back to classes after taking a break after the middle December.

Have some wonderful classes coming up in both acrylics and oils and soon back to Clay Classes too! Have missed creating with the clay!

Have a great week!

Sandy

2012-01-03T20:55:00.003-05:00

INSPIRATION!

So I've been wanting to do a post on how PROUD I am of my baby sister on her healthy lifestyle change and losing 150+ lbs. over the course of a year and some months. My older sister did a post today so I thought I'd share her post with you since she did such a great job writing it and added a bit at the bottom from me!

DayDay (aka - Debbie) we LOVE you and are so PROUD of you!

From my sister Linda over at Engraved in His Palms

Do you need a little inspiration????Got it right here!

I am the oldest of three girls. I love my sisters. Sandy, the middle sister and I have always looked the most alike-we look like our mom's side of the family. Debbie has always looked more like my dad's side of the family. Sandy was never overweight in high school, she has struggled some as an adult but has always had pretty good control over it. I, too was very thin in high school but have struggled my entire adult life with my weight and am currently about 50lbs heavier than I would care to be so overweight is the term I am labeled right now.(Having said all of that about me I must tell you I have a saint for a husband who truly loves me just the way I am . I know he would like us both to be healthier but everyday he asks me how I could be more beautiful today than the day we met? In fact he will probably be upset with me for talking bad about myself because he hates it when I do that. I seem to self deprecate a lot!!!)

I have digressed because this post is supposed to be about my sister..
Debbie, the youngest has always struggled with her weight. She was an overweight child, a happy child that had tons of friends and a family that loved her but the weight kept mounting and I know she tried to take it off several times but, like most of us, it never worked for very long.. Well as she was watching Biggest Loser one night something clicked for her and she never turned back...
I am so incredibly proud of her taking control of her life in this area. She has worked very hard and used the weight watchers program. She is truly an inspiration.

Sandy- the middle one

Debbie with her family about a year before she started her journey

Debbie and her kiddos with Ruby- from TV-- she drove a couple hours to workout with her and tons of other people

Debbie today-- love it!!! She does say after so many years of being overweight she has to deal with accepting the new her and trying to keep it off.
She started in May of 2010 and had lost over 100 pounds by May of 2011--this picture was taken 1 year and 5 months into her journey.
I am sooooooo proud of her- She got off the couch and out from in front of the TV-she made no more excuses and just did it.... She is an inspiriation!!!! Love you Day Day!!!

Here's hoping that she has inspired me enough to begin, yet again.... Linda

***************************************************************

Thanks for writing that today Linda! All of Debbie's friends and family saw her struggle with her weight and she always tried to fool everyone into thinking she was happy - but she'd be the first to tell you that she wasn't.

The repeated trips to the doctors office for her heart, thyroid, etc. AND it seemed like she always had a cold or was sick.

Something "clicked" which is what I think has helped her have long term success!

She had a LONG road ahead of her (see picture above - probably at her heaviest) and she took it one step at a time - literally - in fact she's still taking them.

She works out and continues to check herself on what she eats ~ which I might have to add is a lot more vegetables than I think she never knew existed. She doesn't drink soda anymore (I've given up Diet Coke more than I can count - but it's my weakness). She INSPIRED & continues to INSPIRE me!

I think we all have to remind ourselves that we only get ONE shot at this life and we have to make the BEST of it while we are here ~ we're gonna stumble, fall and even sometimes fail miserably ~ but we also have to remind ourselves that WE can pick ourselves UP, look forward to another day - a better day, achieve and succeed!!

Blessings,

Sandy

2012-01-01T16:29:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!

Loved this and wanted to share! Looking forward to a NEW YEAR! Make the most of it and ENJOY!

The Charlie Schulz Philosophy
(This is marvelous!! Scroll thru slowly and read carefully to receive and enjoy full effect)

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip.

You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just ponder on them.

Just read straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.

3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.

4 Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

The point is, none of us remembers the headliners of yesterday.

These are no second-rate achievers.

They are the best in their fields.

But the applause dies..

Awards tarnish.

Achievements are forgotten.

Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!

5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:
The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials..
the most money...or the most awards.

They simply are the ones who care the most .

''Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!"

2011-12-31T22:28:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Hope you and your family have a wonderful 2012!!

Blessings,

Sandy

2011-12-22T23:09:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

I adore vintage postcards and wanted to share a couple of my favorite holiday ones with you!

It's hard to believe this year is almost over. It's been a busy, amazing, sometimes painful, but all together GREAT year!

I'm blessed with a wonderful husband and three fabulous sons, family and many friends all over the world! I don't count any of this lightly but with a humble and greatful heart and am truly thankful for everything I have!

I hope you and your loved ones have a very Merry Christmas!

Blessings,
Sandy

2011-12-18T14:43:00.000-05:00

Wasn't sure if I had shared this or not! Too good not to share!

The Wooden Bowl

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year-old grandson.
The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered.
The family ate together at the table, but the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and
failing sight made eating difficult ~ peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor and
when he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.

The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess.
'We must do something about father,' said the son.
'I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.'

So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner.
There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl.
When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.
Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.

The four-year-old watched it all in silence.

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.
He asked the child sweetly, 'What are you making?' Just as sweetly, the boy responded,
'Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up. '

The four-year-old smiled and went back to work.

The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.

That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason,
neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.

On a positive note, I've learned that, no matter what happens, how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles four things:
a rainy day,
the elderly,
lost luggage,
and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as making a 'life.'

I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.

I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back sometimes.

I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you
But, if you focus on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very best you can, happiness will find you.

I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.

I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.

I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone.

People love that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

Have a wonderful week!
Blessings,
Sandy

2011-12-17T17:19:00.000-05:00

Byron's "Big Peach" Holiday Event

Had a fabulous time today up at the Byron Welcome Center/Art Gallery ~ lots of fun things going on! Breakfast with Santa, petting zoo & car show in the parking lot, Authors at the gallery signing their books, Barb & Sue face painting, artist Allan Carey painting at the gallery, Artist and TV Personality Mark Ballard showed us how to make a Festive Holiday Wreath and the Holiday Mart was rocking with lots of shoppers! Events going on til 7p.m. so there is still time to get out and do some shopping!

Barb

Sue

Allan

Regina & Mark

Michael Rady ~ signing his book ~ it's available at the Welcome Center/Gallery ~ if you still want a copy of his book.

Some more action outside! Mary & Shirley painting ornaments and snowmen!

Mark showing us how to take a plain evergreen wreath from drab to FAB!

Some of Mark's holiday Merchandise ~ you can see more of his amazing items on his website at www.markballard.com
He has a Facebook page as well under Mark Ballard ~ "LIKE" it today!

Aprons, cards & cookbooks are still available in limited supply at the Byron Welcome Center/Art Gallery - stop in and see Frances!

Mark & Frances ~ Frances ended up purchasing the wreath ~ to go on her RED door for the holidays! She organized the entire event and is such an amazing lady and asset to the city of Byron!!

Now to back up a bit ~ had a wonderful time with my mom & dad here and then my younger sister and her kiddos rolled into town. Was awesome to give my sister some clothes that I no longer wore and even more awesome how great she looked in them! Never would have thought I'd be giving my sister a size 10 pair of pants!! She is still working out and looking great after losing over 150 lbs. all through diet and exercise.

Ready to curl up on the couch with my hubby and watch a movie!

Have a great day!

Sandy

2011-12-04T18:47:00.001-05:00

Painting Amaryllis

We painted amaryllis in class on Friday and I just love the way they turned out. My hubby has wanted me to paint this flower for years and I finally got around to wanting to paint it myself. We did this on a repurposed sign that was sanded and painted over with Plaids Folk Art Enamel paint. Then we painted our design using wOils ~ which are amazing water soluable paints.

Ann

Sandi

Ann

This was Ann's first class with us and she did a beautiful job - think she really surprised herself and I look forward to having her back in class in the New Year!

Sherry

Roz

Pat

Kim

Glo

I only have one class this month as it's such a busy busy time of year and I really wanted to enjoy the holidays and my family and not feel so rushed.

I am doing some pre-planning for my classes and certification dates though for the New Year and will hopefully get all of that on my website soon!

New Year! That just sounds crazy doesn't it - 2011 FLEW BY!

It's been a good year - busy but also fun!!

Have a wonderful day!
Blessings,

Sandy

2011-11-23T22:48:00.006-05:00

Hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Take time to really reflect on what is important in life and to be thankful and grateful for all that you - even if it isn't all that you want! Cherish the memories you make with friends and family and make sure you let them know how much they mean to you!
Blessings,
Sandy

2011-11-22T20:34:00.003-05:00

Mistletoe Market 2011 & being a bad blogger!

So first I'll start with the Mistletoe Market - this was our 5th year at the MM and it's always a lot of work but also so much fun! We have such a wonderful response to our creations and honestly that makes it all worth it! We have some fabulous repeat customers that come year after year to have new ornaments or tiles made and we love to see and hear people say "oh this is the one I got last year...or the year before!"

There is no way we could do the event without the help of Nicoles family - Lexie has always been such a worker bee helping the customers and we knew after last year when Katie helped us out that we'd need both of them this year! They were great and so helpful with the customers ~ making sure they got the exact ornament with the all the extras that they wanted! (she has a lot of help behind the scenes from family & friends that is invaluable and for that I know we are both grateful!) All my boys came and helped us get out of the venue in record time at the end of the event - packed and loaded in 45 minutes!

Nicole and I didn't stop painting pretty much from the moment we got in there til the moment we left each day. None of use really ate anything and kept our liquid intake to a minimum cause we really had no time to go to the ladies room either. Today was the first day I've actually felt like myself again! Two days to set up for the 3 day event and two days to recover!

After such a fabulous year we decided we needed to expand our booth and are hoping for a 10x30 space next year as well as getting a website up for all those customers that continually ask us if we have a website so that they can order later. We're working on it so make sure to check back soon as you know I'll post it on my blog!

Now on to the bad blogger.....I cannot believe I haven't posted on my blog since the beginning of the month. It's been busy to say the least and on top of that I had another birthday so I'm a year older, a bit slower and well, have to make more lists so that I can remember what I need to do!

Life is good! I have the most amazing family - supportive husband that is my biggest cheerleader! Three fabulous boys that work hard at school and in their down time fill our home with LOUD NOISE - oh, I mean music! Huge amps, electric guitars, drums, bass and more! But I love to hear them play (more so when I recognize the song they are playing) and couldn't be a prouder momma!

I'm thankful that my parents live close by again and they get to come and visit us often!!
I'm thankful that I adore my in-laws (I have so many friends that don't have that same blessing)!!
I am thankful for my sisters and their families and my hubbys siblings and their families!
I'm thankful for all of my family!
I'm thankful that I LOVE what I do (painting) and that I get to share that with people and students that I adore!
I'm thankful that after 44 years I can admit when I am wrong and know how to say I'm sorry.
I'm thankful I know how to forgive and when necessary ask for forgiveness.
I'm thankful for all my dear friends that love me despite of all my faults and are always there for me!
I truly am blessed beyond measure and for that I am forever thankful & grateful!

I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
As I do I hope you will to think about what it is you are thankful for!
We only have one life to live so ask yourself if you are living yours to the fullest? Are you doing what you need to do in this life to be the best YOU can be?
Are you doing what you need to help your children become the best they can be with your guidance and unconditional love?
Are you thankful for what you have even if it isn't everything you want?
These are questions I've been asking myself these last few months and just thought I'd throw them out there for you to think about too.

Have a wonderfully BLESSED week and for my US friends a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Sandy

2011-11-09T09:02:00.003-05:00

Holiday Glass Painting Class
Monday in paint class we painted a santa plate, & a votive & ornament like Santa's belt.
I of course had painted way too many ideas and then had to edit for class time and loved the way the santa plate turned out so that is what we painted.

2011-11-08T16:01:00.000-05:00

wOils Iris Paint Class

Last week in paint class I taught this Iris and we painted it with wOils which I am LOVING! They all did such a fabulous job and I think many will paint and repaint this flower to give away as gifts.

mine

Ann

Barb

Sherry

Beverlyn

Patty

Lanelle

Roz

Sandi

Glo

Have a wonderful day!!

Sandy

2011-10-27T07:03:00.001-04:00

The only thing that would make this picture cuter is if they had on some girlie shoes!

Have a bunch to write just haven't had time to write lately!

Looking forward to teaching a one-on-one Level 1 One Stroke Certification today and tomorrow!

Have a wonderful day!
Blessings,
Sandy

2011-10-19T16:36:00.002-04:00

wOil Paint Class ~

Monday in paint class I taught this holiday arrangement with poinsettia, mistletoe, twigs & berries and swirls. I love the way it turned out! My students did such a fabulous job painting and I think they are completely hooked on these wOils as am I. wOils are oil paints that can be used with water, cleaned up with water, mixed with acrylics, etc. and are fabulous to use without any of the odors you usually get with regular oil paints and solvents used. You can find wOil products at my friend Donna's site here: www.dewberrycrafts.com under the wOils tab.

Pat

Barb
Sorry Barb (Glo took your picture for me and didn't get all of ya!lol)

Toni
Toni drove from Alabama (4 hours) to come to paint class on Monday!

Sue
Sorry Sue!(Glo took your picture for me and didn't get all of ya!lol)

Beverlyn

Roz

Glo
(Glo recently moved too ~ an hour further southeast from where she travelled from before - now taking her 3 hours to get to class ~ sure does make me feel LOVED)

Lanelle

Sherry

Cyndee

Ann

Patty

Janis

I haven't been posting much - been busy with preparing for my classes and preparing for the only event I do all year - the Mistletoe Market - held in November (18-20) at the GA National Fairgrounds. My friend Nicole and I do personalized ornaments, yard signs, family tiles and more! This will be our fifth I believe and it's only gotten better each year!

Hope you have a great day!
Blessings,

Sandy

2011-10-10T10:40:00.002-04:00

Painting BIG Workshop!

This past weekend I had an oversized canvas workshop. We painted poppies, lilies, hydrangeas, rananculus and other flowers. Everyone did such an amazing job and although we were all exhausted at the end of it we had a blast!

I of course wanted to change a couple of things on the original painting I did for the workshop so I painted another one the day before and changed the colors so many times that this new one has some serious texture to it with the layers of paint on it ~ but I was happy with the end result.

Jenny had to leave us early as she was given tickets to go and see Blake Shelton at the Georgia National Fair! I'll share her picture with ya another time.

Ann

Sandi

Wanda

Wanda travelled all the way from Talladega, Alabama to be with us!

Monica
Monica also travels over from Alabama to take classes!

Patty

Roz

Have a great day!!
Sandy

2011-10-10T09:48:00.000-04:00

~ Painting Updates ~

Can't believe how many week it's beens ince I updated my blog! Terrible of me I know.

Here is what I've been busy doing ~

My son's friend asked me months and months ago to paint him the cover of one of Metallica's albums and of course I said yes....well I really procrastinated about it because honestly I wasn't sure if I could paint it like he wanted. Well, my sons friend found out he was moving and my son asked that I get it painted so he could give it to him as a going away gift. It's on an 18x18 wrapped canvas and well, no my norm when it comes to painting but I love the way it turned out. I also put glow in the dark paint on it so it glows when the lights are out! All of my sons and his friend responded with "that's SICK" which translates I guess to "that's awesome".

Earlier last month I had the pleasure of having a private paint day with my friend Patty! She painted the SeaOats in wOils while at Donna Dewberry's Summit this past summer and wanted to paint it BIGGER for her daughter for Christmas. She had some pictures of some beaches she had gone to and one had a sailboat so of course we added that to her painting. She was so excited and couldn't keep the surprise from her daughter so she's already gotten the gift! Just like me! Hard to hold on to something you want to give but are too excited about it to WAIT!

I also got to have a private painting day with my friend Glo! She was signed up for classes and a few months back and then ended up in the hospital. There were days they honestly weren't sure if she was going to make it and if she did might have life lasting complications. Scared me big time! I was thrilled that they finally figured out what was going on (pretty much so) and she made a full recovery! We spent the day painting one of the projects she missed the vase with hydrangea and then she had a craft fair coming up so we painted a plaque that she could easily replicate (quickly) for that event and then personalize for the customers.

Hope you have a FABULOUS day!! Sandy

2011-09-21T16:31:00.000-04:00

~Holiday Arrangement ~

wOils class ~ we painted these beautiful holdiay arrangements in our paint class this week using the new wOils (water soluable oil paints) by Martin F. Weber. They are AMAZING to use and my students LOVED them and their paintings!

My idea behind the painting was to be able to take the picture and make my own Christmas cards this year - which my students thought was a great idea too!

Gloria

Roz

Jenny

Barb

Sandi

Sherry

Sue

Beverlyn

Lanelle

Patty

Next month we are painting poinsettias with wOils

Have a great day!

Sandy

2011-09-20T17:28:00.000-04:00

~ Fall Flowers ~

Yesterday in paint class we painted mums, coreopsis, hyrangeas, & cone flowers in beautiful Fall colors!

Lanelle

Beverlyn

Patty

Cyndee

Roz

Sherry

Janis

Glo

Sue

Sandi

Jenny

Roz

Roz loved both designs and wanted to come back to class last night to paint the other one! She did a fabulous job on both!

We're painting with wOils tomorrow - LOVE them! Will share our holiday paintings with you tomorrow!

Have a great day!

Sandy

2011-09-13T14:35:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Holland

Today our youngest son turns 15! Seriously where has the time gone? It is hard to believe that he can get his learner's permit now and within a year be driving with a license. He is our comic relief - not even realizing how funny he is at times! He is very organized and meticulous about things (much like his father) and is such a great student. When I asked him what special dinner he wanted his response was "sushi" and for his cake - "red velvet" of course with cream cheese frosting!

We love you Holland!

9-11-2011

Our church had a really nice service remembering those lost on 9-11-2001

Of course I made the boys take a quick photo before heading into church in their

red, white & blue shirts.

Then we drove over to my parents house in Albama and had a wonderful Sunday dinner. I did watch a few programs on 9-11 and it was really hard to watch and relive that day. One that I know I'll never forget and one I hope our Nation never forgets either!

Have a wonderful day!

Sandy

2011-09-06T18:40:00.000-04:00

Has Fall Arrived?

I hope so! Last night was a bit windy from the last bits of TS Lee and today - a nice (bit overcast) cool day!

I love opening my windows and letting the fresh air in!

I love the smell of nature as it breezes through the windows.

I love the sound of the birds chirping - although faint today - as I'm sure they were hunkered down in their nests keeping each other warm!

This weather is ideal - not too hot, not too cold - just right actually!

Now, I'm ready for the leaves to change and the "cool" weather to continue but I'm not quite ready for Winter - so hope it holds out for a while longer!

Have a great day! Blessings,

Sandy

2011-09-01T10:15:00.000-04:00

Twenty One Years of

Wedded Bliss

Two of my favorite pictures of my hubby and I.

We met on a blind date (thanks Janet & Wes) at a Sushi bar in Okinawa, Japan and 3 months later tied the knot (officially - with paperwork at the American Consolate) and then September 1, 1990 had our wedding at Chapel 1 on Kadena AFB, so that is the date we celebrate our Anniversary.

My hubby is an incredible husband, father and provider! More importantly, he is a Godly man that puts his faith & family first always! He's my biggest supporter and cheerleader! He is an active and attentive father - always present for us all! He's a hard worker and does nothing half way ever!

I truly am blessed beyond measure and thank God everyday for my husband and best friend!

Blessings,

Sandy

2011-08-30T13:21:00.000-04:00

GIVE THANKS!

We painted fall wall hangings yesterday in paint class and I just love the way they turned out.

I am so ready for some Fall weather! In fact Fall weather all year round would be awesome!

Anyway....back to our banner. They are hung with a wooden plaque that reads Give Thanks!

I truly have soooo much to be thankful for and am blessed beyond measure! I have a beautiful family, wonderful friends, a passion for painting and creating and well you know life is truly awesome!

I could go on and on with a list of things that I'm thankful for but I'll keep it short -

I'm thankful for my mother-in-love who just celebrated her birthday on Sunday (Happy Birthday Oma)! Not only do I like her I love her ~ she is one amazing lady!

Mine

Bevelyn

Sherry

Barb

Sandi

Glo

Lanelle

Mary

Ann

Kim

Hope you have a blessed day and don't forget to GIVE THANKS for all you have!

Sandy

2011-08-27T18:27:00.002-04:00

Ornaments Class ~ 2011

We had a blast yesterday painting ornaments! Hard to believe Christmas is right around the corner! I managed to get a picture at the a.m. class but completely forgot at the evening class - urgh!!

So in the a.m. we had Mary, Sue, Barb, Glo, Jenny, Kim, Sandi, Patti, Sherry, Roz and Patty (all pictured below) and in the evening class ~ Ellen, Ann, Monica, Sharon, Lisa and Toni. Really bugs me that I didn't get a picture of them with their gorgeous ornaments!

Here is what we created in class

Ornament Jewelry

Have a great weekend! Hoping that all of you in the path of Hurricane Irene are SAFE! and have little to NO damage from the storm!

Blessings,

Sandy

2011-08-15T13:50:00.000-04:00

Savannah Georgia

This past weekend we had a short family getaway to Savannah - about a 3 hour drive southeast for us and we had the most amazing time!

This is what greeted us Friday a.m. - what a gorgeous sunrise last Friday. The sun rays were just spearing through the clouds and the prettiest pinks and purples in the sky were breathtaking.

Savannah Dan was our tour guide - he was fabulous in his searsucker suit and bow tie. We really feel like we learned a lot about the true history of Savannah plus he's a bit of a comedian so he was entertaining as well. He certainly is used to the weather because we were all dripping with sweat after walking for over 2 hours and I don't think I saw one sweat bead on his forehead.
Highly recommend Savannah Dan as a tour guide if you ever visit Savannah and want a tour!

After our morning walking tour of the city we ate lunch at the highly recommended The Olde Pink House. The food was incredible - the house gorgeous - and the service spot on!

Just loved these kerosene lamps all over the city!

Juliette Low residence - she was the founder of the Girl Scouts - our tour guide kept calling this Girl Scout Mecca! lol

Loved all these older homes - the trees covered with moss and just the quaint ombience of the city!

One of the many cemetaries in the city. We were going to go on a ghost tour after dinner on Saturday but it poured like crazy so we went back to the hotel after our amazing dinner The Chart House!

Owens-Thomas house - got to take a tour inside but unfortunately no photos allowed. Beautiful inside & out!

Leopolds Ice Cream shop - highy recommend!! Great history and yummy ice cream!

Down on the river ~ loved all the shops and art!

Sunday we went over to Tybee island and were all amazing to see this tanker carrying all these containers! Crazy full!

Then our last stop before heading home - Ft. Pulaski
Gorgeous and picturesque is all I can say. Thought the boys would be a bit bored looking around but they really enjoyed it and seeing the canons being shot.

So enjoyed our trip to Savannah and we certainly plan to go back when we have more time to see more of this amazing and beautiful city! Even the boys commented how they wanted to go back because they enjoyed it so much!

Have a great week!
Sandy

2011-08-07T09:05:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to my Daddy!

Today my sweet dad is 66 years old. We love you very much & hope you have an aweome day!!

We celebrated a little early yesterday ~ him and my mom drove up for some good ole GA BBQ from GA Bob's, we went and pampered ourselves with a pedicure while my hubby and boys did yard work. Then it was back to the house for some cake and ice cream!

Of course since he turned 66 we decked it out with Route 66 stuff (love Hobby Lobby and all their decor).

Have a wonderful day!

Blessings, Sandy

2011-08-02T07:40:00.001-04:00

Back to School

WOW! Where did summer break go? Way too fast I can tell ya!

Today one is a Senior, one is a Junior and our youngest a Freshman!

Their school decided to go to a basic uniform this year ~ which we were thrilled with. It really did make clothes shopping easier and well....I kinda missed the uniforms they wore when they were in school in England.
Khakis and a solid colored polo style shirt - tucked in with a belt. If they forget their belt or if the pants are sagging the school will provide the kids with a nice "pink" zip tie to hold them up for the day.

Have to admit and brag a bit about how proud I am of these three fine young men! They work hard at school to make good grades ~ although they were blessed with their daddy's smarts ~ so that helps! They all have good heads on their shoulders, love their church and their family! All three having amazing musical talent and I'm blessed to be their momma!

Before I know it our oldest will be walking across the stage accepting his diploma and this school year will be over. Looking forward to spending more time with them and cherishing every moment because they'll be off to college and we;ll be empty nesters before long ~ enjoying the journey as it happens and not wanting to rush anything ~ time will do that on it's own.

Have a blessed day!
Sandy

2011-08-01T09:08:00.000-04:00

Last February when I attended Vegas paints with my friends Donna & Lori ~ all three of us got to tape a "painting lesson" for Interactive Artist Magazine!
Mine is available this month to watch under "Video Lessons" (so is Donna's adorable project)

This online magazine is chock full of beautiful projects from some amazingly talented artist!

The packet for my project is also available to download for FREE but again you have to subscribe to be able to see this project and more ~ well worth every penny I think! Plus, I've just added some of my packets for sale on my website - either by e-packet or hardcopy ~ you can get them here: http://www.sandymctier.com/

Have a great day!
Sandy

2011-07-30T11:31:00.000-04:00

Japanese Magnolias

Last week we painted Japanese Magnolias. I've always wanted one of these trees in my yard - think they are gorgeous.

Karen

Lanelle

Sherry

Roz

Janis

Sandi

Glo

Ann

Cyndee

Sue

Karen

Gloria

Barb

Kim

Have a wonderful day! Blessings, Sandy

2011-07-25T08:06:00.001-04:00

Borders Workshop

Had a fabulous Borders Workshop on Saturday - we painted grapes, hydrangeas, scrolls, and so much more! I think everyone loved what they learned and hopefully feel a bit more comfortable painting borders in a room - if not, they can paint what they learned on just about anything.

Have a great day!

Sandy

2011-07-25T00:12:00.001-04:00

First Car!

Our oldest son got his first car ~ a Scion XD!

He was super stoked about getting it and I think surprised at how quickly he got it from - "talking about it" to "actually getting it".

So after church today I made him "let me" take a picture of him with it - wasn't too stoked about that but nontheless here it is.

Have a fabulous week!
Sandy

2011-07-24T21:06:00.000-04:00

UGA VISIT

This past week we visited one of my oldest son's college choices for next year.

We were so impressed with how beautiful it was and a bit overwhelmed I have to admit at how LARGE a campus it is.
Enjoyed the tour and all the beautiful surroundings - the boys informed me while I was taking pictures that we weren't on vacation - lol.
After the tour we stopped and ate at The Varsity - YUMMY! yummy yummy!

Have a blessed week! Sandy

2011-07-19T07:23:00.000-04:00

Love this from "gr8quotes" on Facebook today and had to share!

‎"Change Your Words And You Will Change Your World"
A blind old man sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He had a sign which read: "I am blind. Please Help." There were only a few coins in the tin can.

When a lady came walking by, she stopped and backtracked. She looked disapprovingly at the sign, took it and wrote some words on the back. She put the sign back where it was, so that everyone who walked by would see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. Many more people were giving money to the blind man.

That afternoon the lady who had changed the sign came to see how things were going. The blind man recognized the sound of her high heels and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?"

The lady said, "I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way. I wrote: 'Today is a beautiful day, but I cannot see it.'"

Both signs told people the same thing... that the old man was blind. But the first sign simply said the man was blind. The second sign told people they were extremely fortunate that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the Story:

Be thankful for what you have.
Be creative. Be innovative. Think differently and positively.

When life gives you a reason to cry, show life that you have 100 reasons to smile. Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear.

Keep the faith and drop the fear... just remember God is Near!

Author Unknown

2011-07-04T08:46:00.000-04:00

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

I absolutely LOVE vintage postcards! These were some of my favorites celebrating our 4th of July holiday!

Many thoughts of thanks and prayers especially for all military men and women that gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we can ALL continue to be a land of the free!!

2011-06-25T13:21:00.000-04:00

Glass vase with Hydrangea ~

that is what we painted in paint class yesterday! I think everyone did an amazing job and think they were all so pleased with their paintings! I love the way they turned out!

Ann painted her shirt and I just had to take a picture and share it with yall!

Have a great weekend!
Sandy

2011-06-21T09:22:00.000-04:00

Patriotic Petunias
Had fabulous paint class yesterday! We painted red, white and blue petunias with an old fence post. Everyone did such an awesome job on their painting. I think of everything they loved how easy it was to paint the post.

Ann

Sue

Kari

Barb

Susan R

Sandi

Janis

Patty

Pat

Carrie

Hope you have a fabulous day!

Sandy

2011-06-18T21:01:00.000-04:00

Happy Father's Day!

Wow! I'm one lucky girl you know.

I have an awesome father, incredible father in law and a fabulous husband who is such a great father to our three boys!!

I want to THANK my daddy for always being there for me! I hope you know how special you are to me and how much I appreciate and love you!! You're my HERO!

I want to THANK my father in law for being such a wonderful example of what love, hard work, and dedication will get you! I sure did luck out when I married my hubby ~ to get such awesome in-laws.

I want to THANK my husband for being such an awesome father to our boys! Everything he does is for his family! I know my boys won't fully appreciate all that he does for them until they are grown and out of the house but I see it daily and appreciate every second of it now!

To all the other father's out there - Happy Father's Day!

Blessings,
Sandy

2011-06-15T19:26:00.000-04:00

Warner Robins, GA

Museum of Aviation Annual Auction July 2011

Every year I donate items that I've created/painted for the Museum of Aviations annual auction. If you live locally and haven't been it really is a MUST go to event!!

Here are a couple things I painted to donate this year ~

A cake plate/punch bowl with roses - I love the way this turned out. Toyed with putting white little flowers on it but kept it with roses only. Then I painted a pitcher and glasses with grapes - one of my favorite things to paint! Love the way those turned out and hope they bring some good money for the museum.

Have a wonderful day! Blessings, Sandy

2011-06-14T08:44:00.002-04:00

Happy Sweet 16!

Today our middle son Kendall turns "16"! OMGoodness where has the time gone!

He came into this world at 9 lbs. 14oz. and now at 16 is 6' 4" which is really no surprise.

At a couple months old he jolted up from my lap, rolled down my leg, landed on his belly on the floor and looked up at me (my sister Linda & my brother in law David) and smiled. I knew then that this kid was going to be fun (and probably a handfull at times) but mainly full of energy and fun!

We truly have been blessed with an amazingly talented & sweet child. We're so very proud of the young man you have become Kendall and we love you so very much!

These pictures pretty much sum up what occupy his free time now-a-days! He loves to play on his guitar (don't have a picture of him with his newest one - which he got for his birthday) Jam sessions with his brothers tops the list of things he loves to do at 16!

He's always been a bit fearless - which at times has scared the living daylights out of me!

I used to think I was tall until Kendall shot up to 6' 4" this year!

I'm a little bit sad today that I don't get to spend today with the birthday boy! He's up in Atlanta with his older brother Austin having fun being counselors at Camp Invention. I don't think I've ever not been with my boys on their birthday so it's a bit strange. I know he is with family though and will enjoy the day at camp and then celebrate later with this brother, Aunt LouLou, and cousin Gabby!

I'm overjoyed too that my hubby's surgery went very well yesterday. They took out the lump in his throat about the size of a softball the doctor said. They did take the right side of this thyroid but the doctors said there was no cancer and the left side looked great so they were able to leave some of his thyroid there. He spent the night last night and we get to go and pick him up today to come home. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers!!

Have an OUTSTANDING DAY!!

Sandy

2011-06-07T07:00:00.064-04:00

Family Time & Family Fun!

My grandmother and parents came to visit the last week in May - just a short visit for the day so Steven and the boys could see grandmother while she was down visiting for Chandlers graduation.

We spent Memorial Day weekend at the farm to celebrate our other nephews graduation from High School. It was nice to all be together and enjoy some really fun games and lots of yummy food - too much of it actually.

Dillon ~ the graduate ~ with his mom & dad

Gabby & Opa

Me & my gorgeous niece Gabby

My youngest ~ Holland

Gabby & Holland

Trying to stay cool!

Kendall, Austin, & Dillon

Kendall - keeping cool playing pool inside

We had some fun racing games that my brother in law came up with - most of all fun - only had my foot run over once by the pug - my youngest was behind the wheel - blindfolded - so what else could be expected?!

Kendall & Gabby

Then Opa got out the tractor & wagon for some more fun and games that involved spoons & eggs.

The tired graduate!

We had a wonderful time and it was great to just relax and spend time at the farm!

Have a great day!
Sandy

2011-06-06T19:50:00.000-04:00

Painted Glass
I loved painting these glasses for one of my sons teachers. I had painted some glasses for her a couple of years ago for a teachers gift and she asked if I'd do some tropical/beach themed glasses for her and her friend.

They get together during the summer and take a "girls trip" this year they were making the trip with one less friend unfortunately because she lost her battle with cancer. She wanted some glasses for her and her friend so that they could remember this trip together. I loved the little accents on the base of the glass - shells, flip flops and their names. Then I painted each of them one with a fluffy flamingo complete with magenta glitter and all!

Perfect for summer don't you think!
Have a fabulous day!
Sandy

2011-06-06T19:43:00.001-04:00

Graduation Trip to Memphis
My younger sister and I road tripped to Memphis a few weeks ago for our nephews graduation. Was a quick trip in town spend a hole day and out of town the next but we wouldn't have missed it for anything. We're so proud of Chandler! He is going to be a HUGE asset to the soccer team at Memphis University!!

Was also great seeing some familiar faces ~ all the family & friends. Great to also see Tammy & Connor and meet Tammys beau and see Jessica (thanks for taking photos Jessica).
Plus, it was awesome to see Chad B. from high school. Haven't seen him since maybe our 10 year high school reunion?

Mom, Dad, & baby sister Debbie

Grandma, Mom, Chandler & Dad

Chandler and his great-grandmother and my grandmother Adkins

Chandler with his Memere & Pepere

Chandler with his Nana & PopPop

The proud family with Chandler the Graduate

Chan and his Aunts

Me, Chan & Debbie

Debbie & Chan

Chan & Linda (his proud momma)

Jessica & Chan

Linda & Jessica

Debbie, Me & Linda

Grandma, Debbie, Me, Linda & Mom

David, Chandler, Linda, Carson & Cameron

On our way to Memphis we passed through Birmingham and couldn't believe the devestation from the tornadoes that had ripped through there in April. We stopped on the way home and took some pictures. It was so quiet and even with a bus load of people there looking at the devestation it was quiet - really no words to say - just beyond devestating.

Kinda reminds ya we're not promised tomorrow huh? Make the most of your today with family & friends and be thankful for what you have!!

Blessings,
Sandy

2011-05-25T19:49:00.001-04:00

Angel Trumpet Flowers

This month has been so crazy busy & on my way home from my nephews graduation in Memphis I realized I didn't post pictures from my last class.

We painted Angel Trumpet Flowers - a flower I've wanted to paint and teach for a long time. I was blown away with how awesome everyone did. No pattern - just practiced before going to the canvas and painting the design.

Jenny

Sherry

Terry

Glo

Barb

Sue

Janis

Roz

Patty

Karen

Patty

I'm trying to work in June Classes. I have a Prep Course and Certification but am finding it difficult to work in some dates for class. I know several of my students are wondering when my schedule is gonna come out - will make that decision by tomorrow and let you all know.

Have a wonderful day!!

Sandy

2011-05-15T17:52:00.001-04:00

Blue & White Vase with Yellow Lily

Had a fabulous class on Friday and think everyone did such a fabulous job on their paintings!

We painted a blue and white vase with a yellow lily in the vase. I had also painted a smaller vase with several lilies in it that I loved but realized there was just no way to get that done in the 2 1/2 hour class.

Sandi

Jenni

Karen

Sherry

Patty

Sue

Glo

Pat

Looking forward to paint classes tomorrow - we are painting Angel Trumpets!

This morning started off a bit eventful - fortunately I wasn't up so didn't get to see the surprise - THANKFULLY!

Hubby usually likes to have a cup of coffee when he sits down to read the Sunday paper before church and this morning he got it out of the mailbox, plopped it down on the counter in the kitchen and a black widow spider crawled out. I would have LOST it ~ thankfully I was still sleeping! I HATE spiders - big, small, baby, you name it - the only good spider is a dead spider. I know, they kill insects and do all these other great things I'm sure but I am terrified of them and they freak me out!!!

Hope you have a fabulous week!

Sandy

2011-05-14T17:52:00.000-04:00

Pattern Packets now available!

Click on the pictures to check out my

pattern packets that are available for sale!

Hibisucs & Hummingbird

& Calla Lilies and Monarch Butterfly

Can be painted on a garden flag (RocLon) or Canvas.

Have a fabulous day!
Sandy

2011-05-06T10:33:00.001-04:00

What's on My Easel

So a few of you have asked what I've been working on lately - and this is what sits on my easel today.

I am teaching Angel Trumpet Flowers this month in paint class and I wanted to paint them in oils.

I did this yesteday in about 3 hours and need to leave it alone - have tried to go in and add some shadows and all but I keep getting into the wet areas. I also need to fix up the flower on the bottom - not feeling the back petals are exactly the way I want them.

Can't paint today - just not feeling up to it! One of those days where I have 1,000 other things in my head and heart and if I try to paint anything today it will look forced. Will post a final pic of it when I'm done.

Needing to just be still & quiet today you know what I mean? Most days I'm confident with so many things in my life - not feeling that way today at all - and days like this really get me down!

Hope you have a wonderful day!
Sandy

2011-04-30T10:08:00.000-04:00

A Blue Rose

I had a friend share this story with me recently and I wanted to post to my blog because I wanted to share it with you! Hope you have a wonderfully BLESSED day!

A Blue Rose
Having four visiting family members, my wife was very busy, so I offered to go to the store for her to get some needed items, which included light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags, detergent and Clorox. So off I went.

I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies and headed for the checkout counter, only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man who appeared to be about sixteen-years-old. I wasn't in a hurry, so I patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there. This was when he waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice, "Mommy, I'm over here."

It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged and also startled as he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by. His eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said, "Hey Buddy, what's your name?"

"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded proudly.

"Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but my name is Steve."

"Steve, like Stevarino?" he asked. "Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?"

"How old am I now, Mommy?" he asked his mother as she slowly came over from the next aisle.

"You're fifteen-years-old Denny; now be a good boy and let the man pass by."

I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny for several more minutes about summer, bicycles and school. I watched his brown eyes dance with excitement, because he was the center of someone's attention. He then abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.

Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me for taking the time to talk with her son. She told me that most people wouldn't even look at him, much less talk to him.

I told her that it was my pleasure and then I said something I have no idea where it came from, other than by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. I told her that there are plenty of red, yellow, and pink roses in God's Garden; however, "Blue Roses" are very rare and should be appreciated for their beauty and distinctiveness. You see, Denny is a Blue Rose and if someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart and touch that rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God.

She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked, "Who are you ?"

Without thinking I said,
"Oh, I'm probably just a dandelion, but I sure love living in God's garden."

She reached out, squeezed my hand and said,
"God bless you !" and then I had tears in my eyes.

May I suggest, the next time you see a BLUE ROSE, don't turn your head and walk off. Take the time to smile and say Hello. Why ? Because, by the grace of GOD, this mother or father could be you. This could be your child, grandchild, niece or nephew. What a difference a moment can mean to that person or their family.

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Leave the rest to God.

"People will forget what you said,
People will forget what you did,
but people will never forget how you made them feel !"

2011-04-24T13:32:00.002-04:00

Easter 2011

Had a fabulous morning with my parents, sister and her family and my hubby and boys! We went to the 9a.m. service at church and then hit Cracker Barrel after that. But before all that we had to have our usual family photo ops which the kids always love - NOT!

Aren't these foxgloves and hydrangea gorgeous - my sister and mom brought them for me since Easter dinner was at our house.

My neice Hannah let me face paint her up!

My litter sister - looks amazing - 134 lbs. down!! I can't even remember the last time I saw my sister in a dress let alone a dress this little! Amazing sista!! Keep up the good work!

Here are some more snapshots from today!

Our Parents

Missed having the rest of our family here! Hope you all have a wonderfully blessed Easter! He is Alive!

Love,

Sandy

2011-04-23T16:02:00.001-04:00

Happy Easter!!

Had a wonderful lunch with my parents here and my younger sister and her family ~ would have been awesome if my older sister and family could have travelled down as well.

Chilling out and lounging around the house! However, I have a feeling my baby sister is gonna wanna go exercise later!! She has lost 134 lbs. She started a year ago tomorrow and is in the best shape I've ever seen her in!!

Will post pics later. Hope you and your family have a wonderful weekend and very Blessed Easter!!

Sandy

2011-04-20T22:00:00.000-04:00

Hibiscus Class

Monday we painted Hibiscus and a hummingbird - which was a lot of fun.

Sandi

Jenny

Sue

Nancy

Mary

Sherry

Glo

Patty

Janis

Susan

Pat

Ellen's

Barb

Bian

Diane

Kim

Have a great day!
Sandy