I won...I won $200...what I am calling the ZNE -Convenzione Economic Stimulus package!! I posted to http://blog.couragetocreate.com/ , Michele Beschen's Blog, the wonderful crafter from the DIY network. I'm off to spend the money at the zne vendor fare!!!! (Don't tell my husband, he'll want me to invest it in a long term CD.)

Gridlocked - ZNE Convenzione Workshop

Here it is! My first art retreat project...ever in my entire life! Wheww.....I took a wonderful class with Lisa Kaus and we learned to use her style of "grid" collage..which I'm loving more and more. The finish is beeswax. So....what did I learn. A little structure in layout'design, use and techniques of fluid acrylics...(yes, more supplies needed now) and graphite pencils/crayons, how to attach 3-d embellishments, and beeswax techniques using a heat tool and mini iron. Lisa was delightful, very calming, gracious, generous, encouraging. I loved how she walked around the room offering praise, encouragement and and suggestions. She would "ask" if she could show you something on your art...and then would demonstrate, without intruding on your work. An excellent example of teaching!!!! If you are related to me or among my close friends in St. Louis ( or around the world). Plan on being tormented with a new style of art!!!

Photo Fun in Half Moon Bay California

Thursday I drove over to Half Moon Bay, California, it is soooo much better navigating in the day light. Actually didn't get lost, more on that later. I spent some time just enjoying the beach and reading. It was overcast but beautiful. These fun little girls were having the best time.