these are my dogs, this is my blog.

First post of 2012! (I'm fired)

2012-02-23T07:35:00.005-08:00

We entered a whole new year, you say. Uh huh. Well, I'm just catching up. Hello!

Nashville. Fireworks. Boom.

25th January boasted the high point of my year so far. Ft Campbell, rain and cloud, 2am. In marched my husband (and his team) to much fanfare and a sleepy wife. This- in a nutshell- makes me happy. And busy. My recent absence has been duly noted.

Illustration projects have also been in full effect and the current issue of 'Taste of Home' magazine, features some printed work that I can proudly put my name to. Page 65. Don't mind if I do.

(and there is nothing like drawing Italian wedding soup for a week to give a girl an appetite!).

Valentines Day came and went, in an explosion of chocolates and surprises. The dogs baked cookies for their girlfriends (hopeless, hopeless romantics).

Rudy turned two. Felix turned one. The mischief continues. My patience walks the tightrope. My walking shoes are oft employed. My heart is full to the brim.

So far so good in 2012. Happy belated!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

Just a month until Forrest returns home from Afghanistan! In the meantime, the boys and I are enjoying the festive season as best we know how. That is to say, eating a lot of cookies (something the three of us can agree on!).

also, I took the printing press for a spin and made my cards again this year. The poor dogs were covered in glitter for a week afterwards (doesn't really help with the tough-guy impression!)

Wishing you a very merry Christmas!

with love from Lou, Rudy, Felix and Bob the turtle

***

What's up, Gnomie?

2011-12-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

I have already introduced you to Mister Longbow, but he has come a long way since his last showcase on my blog.

Hunter is a patient gnome. He spent much of his visit untouched on my breakfast bar, where he witnessed a month's worth of activity and once almost eaten by a sneaky little Shepherd. Felix! NO!

Here he is at Thanksgiving. Quite naked, other than his hat.

Eventually though, we fashioned a fine set of clothes for him. He insisted on the tattoo.

Though he's a little late for Oktoberfest in his fancy schmancy lederhosen, I packed him off to Germany...home just in time for Christmas. Also, he's probably deploying to Afghanistan with his battalion next Spring, so wish him luck :)

Miss you already little buddy. Prost!

Behind the scenes of a mid-tour leave.

2011-12-08T11:26:00.000-08:00

Posing with my beautiful trophy-dog after the Nashville Half Marathon. (I placed 22nd out of 1039 women, surprising nobody more than myself....did I mention how many doughnuts I've been eating lately?! miracle.)

Feeling thoroughly smug that all mine and Lesley's training had paid off, and eagerly anticipating Sunday mornings with a hot chocolate and a book instead of 10miles of freezing misery. aaah! I mean, I loved every minute. yes.

The after-party is well represented by Rudy hiding behind his tail. Lively? To say the least.

Thanks to my friends who refrained from drawing all over my face when I committed the ultimate party foul of falling asleep at 9pm. at my own party. (A half marathon will do that to you apparently...)

And all of a sudden it was the day we had been trying to avoid. Time to pack Forrest on a plane (or five) back to Afghanistan for the last couple months of his tour. Behold Rudy's most valuable asset.... sad face!

Also, bonus points to Forrest for utilizing my homemade message-shelf in the back ground! Miss you too, Love.

November, in a Nutshell.....

2011-12-07T06:53:00.000-08:00

Oopsy....I seem to be running behind with everything lately. Not least, my poor forgotten blog.

To sum it up: my husband came home from Afghanistan for two weeks of leave. We vacationed in beautiful, colorful Gatlinburg. We ate a lot of doughnuts. I ran a half marathon. Family Neumann flew in from the Golden State and we partied like it was 1999. I somehow managed to squeeze two Thanksgivings in (which, being English and unused to this holiday- I do have lots of catching up to do!)

As if that wasn't enough....I've had a really fun illustration job (to be shared soon). Felix is developing a conscience (I've been waiting long enough!), and I have signed a self-publishing deal with a talented author friend of mine. Watch this space!

November, as seen through my camera:

yes yes, you're welcome for this picture of the legendary cuttlefish. I was especially charmed by the sweet little fellow who appeared to be slumbering whilst balancing on one leg! Too cute.

News and Views

2011-10-29T13:16:00.001-07:00

Allow me to introduce you to Mister Hunter Longbow. He's a charming fellow. I have been tasked with transforming him into a modern and desirable gnome, by my dear friend Chad, stationed in Illesheim, Germany. Hunter is the Bravo Company mascot, and let's be honest, his style choices are lacking and personal hygiene also falls below the bar (dust in your beard Hunter? Really?). So here he is, idling on my workbench, clearly disregarding my no-smoking policy. Maybe it's a bubble-pipe.

We have a lot of work to do here at Gnome Makeover HQ.

In other news (and check out the views!), it is my first year here in Tennessee, and the season is spoiling us. I've told the boys that Forrest is coming home soon (next week for R&R!) so here are my two cuddle-bugs gazing expectantly at the forest (no no, I said Forrest! Daddy!). oh well...

So it's almost the month I've been waiting for. I am up to my eyeballs in errands and projects and Rudy is tapping his watch and saying that BlueBall awaits us in the garden. No rest for the wicked. Oh, Happy Halloween!

On this lovely morning:

2011-10-24T07:09:00.001-07:00

life feels good.

Cold days, Warm dogs.

2011-10-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

It has taken just one week for the temperature to drop 20 degrees, all the leaves to fall off the trees and for me to switch my wardrobe from shorts and tees to long socks and sweaters. The dogs are looking smug in their fur coats when we brave the chilly 6.30am walk. I'm wearing gloves and hats and jackets in the 50s and wondering how I'll make it through the zeroes. With hot chocolate, for a start.

Dog-blog.

2011-10-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

I'm working on redesigning my blog banner, as the current one just isn't my cup of tea, my Sunday morning, my warm socks on a cold day anymore. I was telling my husband that he'd better come home soon, because I feel like I've been married to the dogs lately. Not healthy. That said, they are a big, bright part of my days, and so I thought I'd include them in my new banner. Felix brought me a bug from the garden today, so he deserves a little something in return, afterall. At first I ended up drawing something ludicrously detailed for a simple application, but after slapping my forehead, and cursing wasted time, I did a 5 minute sketch which will probably work just fine.

In the meantime, Rudy has collected all my old shoes together for me so that I can take him into the garden and play fetch. Mustn't keep him waiting....

(I'll tackle Felix tomorrow....it's a work in progress!)

Family Time!

2011-10-17T08:12:00.001-07:00

I suppose it is an inevitable circumstance that when a family member visits, they must at some point leave again. We gloomily waved my Mum back across the Atlantic yesterday, after what was an entirely pleasant three weeks of being a tourist in my own town, eating pie, and crowning my Mum the new most exciting person of interest for my dogs. As ball-thrower in chief, it didn’t take my Mum long to endear herself to the boys. Rudy fell in love. (again).

Felix must have grown 10 inches from all the extra treats. Rudy used his charm-face and spoke his human words in a bid for more (and more) ball-throwing. Walks at the river were a happy transformation from our fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants approach (two dogs, one under-muscled human: me) to organized semi-chaos (two dogs, three humans: Me, Mum and my sister, Kate). This might be the most relaxed I have felt since Forrest left 6 months ago.

Nashville Zoo entertained half-heartedly. It was nice but I was hoping for penguins. Maybe a hippo. Flamingos make up for any amount of disappointment however.

Nashville is becoming a little more familiar to me, though when my GPS broke halfway there, you could very well have deposited me on the surface of the moon and I’d have found my way around more efficiently. Eventually we succeeded in navigating between pancakes and parks. Not bad for a day’s confusion…

One of our final days trips was to the quite beautiful ‘Land Between the Lakes’. Thanks to the Autumn leaves for putting on such a show. Thanks to the weather for finally being generously cooler. Thanks to my Mum and Kate, for a lovely 3 weeks.

Good times, wonderful family.

25th of September (i've been waiting for you!)

2011-09-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

The latest:

*I have crafted my very own 'message shelf', which is pretty much exactly as is sounds. Nifty!

*I have vacuumed, laundry-ed, dusted and tidied with Mary Poppins-like enthusiasm, because today my Mum arrives from England for a 3 week visit. Whee!

*Discovered that a lunch of walnut bread, brie, apple and honey is perfection on a plate.

*A trip to the farmers market rendered me speechless, when the Nashvillians played their favorite game of guessing where I'm from. Scotland, Australia and Holland are the latest offerings (but at least I haven't heard 'Russia?' in a while!). Also, I have never seen so many pumpkins under one roof. It was astounding.

*Lesley and I ran 8 miles, brushing off our half-marathon training schedule like it ain't no thing (y'all). Hooray for guilt-free pie consumption.

This afternoon my sister Kate arrived for a Few-Day-Stay (official name) and being the good sport that she is, accepted an excited ambushing from Baby Bat. Now we are all twiddling our thumbs and paws, because did I mention? My Mum is coming to visit! yippee!

BigRudy and Blue Ball. The Love Story.

2011-09-19T12:40:00.001-07:00

I've been busy doing yawn-worthy tasks like cleaning the car and vacuuming the house and laundry and businessy things on the compooter. If you are me (which incidentally, I am), it is difficult not to be side-tracked by some whim or other in the midst of hard work. On this occasion, I felt very much inclined to make a piece of mini wall-art. As you do. My obsession with the dogs is already unapologetically over-documented, so it will come as a surprise to nobody that I painted this picture of Rudy (except perhaps Forrest, who may not expect to receive it in his next care package!).

Rudy is rarely found without Blue Ball. He mourns it's absence on our walks and tries to sneak it along for road trips. He greets people at the door with it, he sleeps with it and plays with it. Given the chance, I expect he's read it poetry. It's love.

At my request, BigRudy was so obliging as to pose for a photo next to his likeness (or more accurately, he was momentarily distracted by Felix who was singing a power ballad through the window). He is also naked because Felix chewed his collar and neckerchief off. Boys will be boys....

a bit of blah.

2011-09-18T15:50:00.000-07:00

Sundays must commonly be the hardest day for the Army Wife whose husband is deployed. I mean, Sunday was a pain in the butt to begin with. It was do your homework day. Which progressed into hangover day (university...I was not a saint). Now we are at 'fill-the-time-however-you-can' day. As such, it would be appropriate for me to point out that my neighbors and friends who take it upon themselves to keep me entertained while hubby is away are incredibly awesome. They are the kind of people that you hope humanity is made of, but you suspect you kind of just got lucky. I also got some work done, and walked the dogs (twice) and ate a cookie (well, two).

I get to see Forrest in November for two weeks of R&R. Plus, I feel like a braver, better person than I was four months ago. That said, I am not going to thank deployments, because I wish Forrest was here. Always. But he has the kind of heart that fills a room, and if he chooses to represent and defend his country, then I'm right there beside him. He's a champ. But in the meantime Gloria Gaynor sang it, and you know what I'm talking about. (No, not an invite to karaoke....)

I should add that despite the occasional gloom of Sundays and deployments, I recognize precisely how lucky I am for this life that I have. Not least, waking up every day to see two pairs of yoda-ears on the horizon of my duvet....happiness can be hard to avoid. High Five, Rudy! Cuddle time Felix!

Home, Sweet Home.

2011-09-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

If September isn't officially craft-month then it should be...because I've been afflicted with that bug lately.

I'm on a mission to make this house look like a home, and the dogs have been busy distributing their toys around, helping me with the 'lived-in' aspect of homeliness. Thank you, boys.

I've been strutting around in my work shoes (furry slippers), donning some fetching eyewear (plastic goggles) and commandeering the power-tools (trying not to lose a finger). Cutting up wooden triangles might prove to be the pinnacle of my abilities, however. After all that excitement...painting was a relief. Sometimes the comfort-zone is, well, comfortable.

I'll confess, I was going to make a 'welcome home' sign for Forrest (though he is not home for many moons), but in the end it all took so long that I wanted something that could hang around for longer than a few days!

In the meantime, Baby Shepherd has acquired all manner of booboos. Singing his whalesong, doing gymnastics in anticipation of dinner, and trying to 'crowd surf' on Rudy after leaping off the sofa, Felix clearly thinks he's a rockstar. Trying to raise them right....my work here might never be done!

Autumn? hi!

2011-09-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

I know it isn't officially Autumn yet (ahem, 'Fall'), but I feel as though my household has transitioned into the new season already. What can I say? We are trendsetters.

My wreath is prematurely complete and being worn by the front door. I have taken to wiggling my toes into long socks (venturing past my usual barefooted/ Birkenstocked look of Summer). We have purchased a compost bin, in anticipation of fallen leaves. We got rained on instead of sunburned at the local 'RiverFest' this weekend. We are opening windows instead of burdening the AC (whilst dancing around at the thought of next month's electric bill. mmm)

Regardless of my delight in new seasons however, here is Rudy- complete with blue ball. Because some things don't ever (should never) change!

Mister Felix.

2011-09-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

Around a year ago, I drew a puppy-portrait of Rudy. Now it's the turn of the sweet (mischievous) Mister Felix. Commonly known as 'CrazyFace' 'Little Thing' and 'Felix the Bat', this ball of energy is growing into big-boy barks that are finally aligning with the superior confidence he was apparently born with! The squeaks of yesterdays just didn't cut it. While Forrest has been away, I have wavered between being infuriated by Felix's prankster-like antics, and eternally charmed by his cheery nature. Luckily annoyance can't last long when he trots past grinning from ear to ear in the wake of whatever destruction he has most recently caused. His comedy is his savior. Or is that my savior? Either way I adore the boy named after a cat :)

This Rainy Tuesday

2011-09-06T14:22:00.000-07:00

This is the cosy sort of day I'm having. Shame about the 10k in the rain that beckons shortly.

(good thing about the peach cobbler I made for afterwards.... :)

Once Upon a Summer's Day. (with a winter theme. And some cake.)

2011-08-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

People buy wreaths. Or they buy ‘wreath-making materials’ and wisely get their craft on in a manner that is advisable, with wire and twigs and berries and y’know…instructions! Because I’m a glutton for creative punishment and frustration however, I instead decided to make a completely impractical far-too-heavy wooden wreath that will never conceivably hang on our door. But I’m really enjoying it. It’s also a winter wreath, because I’m in my ‘so done with summer I’m pretending it’s winter’ mode.

In our spare time, we are branching out and going to parties where there is cake designed like a beach. Rudy is attending acting class and practicing his tough guy expressions. Sadly it’s wasted on Mister Felix who yawns in the face of amateur dramatics. The House of Dog continues to amuse.

One foot in front of the other. Eat a cookie.

2011-08-17T12:47:00.000-07:00

I have achieved an unlikely balance somewhere between a feverishly impressive work ethic and sharpening-all-my-pencils-twice procrastination. I have done a bit of both and the result is that I'm ready to contact a delectable list of would be, could be (and have-been) clients.

In a manner of sweet hilariousness- the way only they know how- the boys have kept me company during these frustrating days and weeks at my desk. They almost witnessed a printer get propelled out of the window. They dutifully chased the vacuum cleaner around when I procrastinated a little more. We all did cartwheels together when I figured out how to use the new printer. Have a cookie. We deserve it!

go on.

2011-08-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

August, lately.

2011-08-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

If I'm looking for advantages of the geographically challenged aspect of my marriage at the moment, I'd say there is less excuse for distraction. It doesn't seem quite so necessary to cuddle with....who, myself?.....on the sofa for a couple of hours every night. Dinner is a 10 minute rather than an hour long affair. There is no packed lunch duty, or the need for 'his & hers' trips to Lowes (small victories!). The dogs receive more affection than they ever asked for, but my one sided conversations with them can only last for so long. Now that Felix is a little older and not trying to sprint off with my shoes/ books/phone every two seconds, it's a relief to have more time to devote to illustration work. There have been long hours in my workroom. Battles with the old printer. The purchase of a new printer. (Battles with the new printer....). Research and photoshop and lists and nerves and spray mount and frustration and good old fashioned stubbornness.

Oh, and my new website was quietly revamped over at it's usual spot. Fist pump, high five.

Rudy and Felix have been doing a grand job of keeping me busy and entertained. Felix still sings whale-song for his breakfast and he tap-dances for dinner. He walks and runs and plays and sings and leaps and jumps and hops til he drops. Happy 6 month birthday little buddy. Love you forever ever.

Dog Days of Summer

2011-07-26T12:35:00.001-07:00

I have a million ideas in my head. One pair of hands. Then the puppy wakes up from his nap. But I have a list as long as Rudy's tail (very long), so I need to keep things moving. Time to clean up the studio and make this house look like our home! I've painted a sign. It's a start!

I've been busying myself with a few projects. I'm crafting a detailed honey-do list for Forrest upon his return (naturally), but also putting forth effort so the the place doesn't look exactly as it did when he left, next time he sees it. Luckily (or not), time is on my side. Almost ready to say hello to the 6 month countdown. Well, I'm more than ready, but time is stubborn and will do things at it's own convenience. I painted a welcome sign for the second biggest mess of the house- my office (the first is Forrest's office, and I'm not even opening that door, lest all the unpacked boxes come crashing out of it). Upon entering my workspace you will likely discover myself donning a painting shirt, and a dog or two looking spiffy in a neckerchief. Welcome!

Attending Doodlers Anonymous.

2011-07-11T15:44:00.001-07:00

So I was working on my website, y'know, going through that wretched mis-named, non-indexed, badly filed encyclopedia of images on my computer and trying to coax them into more-organised chaos. I was super-duper bored. Oh man, so bored. So in a bid to re-engage the saner side of my brain, I embarked on a fun weekend project. Doodlers Anonymous has a calendar design competition happening, so I jumped on it.

My design is all about the lovely things of Summer, and since I try to practice what I preach, I also made time for a BBQ, a 10K run, a Jazz Concert at the winery and a trip to the movies (thank you very much). I lost all notion of jpegs, pdfs and html pretty soon after the first glass of wine.

Kinda got into some mono-printing too. And lettering. And pizza-making. And cookie-baking. My messy weekend playtime...

Hi, love.

2011-07-07T19:48:00.001-07:00

I go about my days with purpose. I have friends who make me smile on a daily basis. I have dogs that make me laugh until I howl. I live a life that makes me thankful for everything that I have. But nonetheless I miss that husband of mine. He had me set in his sights pretty soon after I first met him. His effeminate snowflake fleece made me walk the other way (well, I was at art school, where boys were fashionable, I mean seriously). But Forrest was sweet. And he was persistent. And he proposed to me (three years before he really proposed to me) with this plastic ring. Today I found a drawing of it, and I think my heart just melted.

BigRudy saves the day!

2011-07-05T13:18:00.000-07:00

In a bid to kick things back into gear, I am re-fluffing my illustration website. Brushing away the dust and putting some brand new artwork up on my website walls.

This always results in the most tiresome days spent trawling through the million zillion folders on my computer. Even when my artwork turns out awkward and ugly and embarrassing, I find it hard to let go of since I put time and affection in to every thing that I draw. Kinda like my old sock box (because who's to say I won't wake up one morning with an urge to wear the sock with a hole in the toe! Y'know?). On the upside, the occasional treasure of a forgotten memory is always waiting around the next corner to cheer me up and cheer me on. I just found this sweet little compilation of RudyFaces. I don't remember why I made it or what it was intended for, but today it provoked a much-needed giggle from my temporarily serious self. BigRudy, with the gift of a face that never stops giving!

Day Five of the Food Fest

2011-07-02T12:05:00.001-07:00

My collection of salami is becoming impressive. I have an entire fridge drawer dedicated to this current obsession. Presumably it's a just phase. But seriously, gimme a bagel, cream cheese and some black pepper and we are talking serious business. Don't judge.

I don't know how the dogs keep creeping into every post....they are sneaky like that!

Today is a run-day (uh-oh).

2011-06-30T19:23:00.000-07:00

There is no denying that I am currently in the half-hearted stage of half-marathon training. I still eat too much before I run. I yawn and fall out of bed into my shoes and onto the road without a thought about stretching. I worry about what the dogs eat before I have my own face-off with the breakfast bagel (or even worse, cinnamon toast. horrifying, I'm sure). One of these days I'll have it all figured out. I'll shake hands with my bowl of bran and give a wink to the protein shake on the side. But until then, just slide the chocolate spread and toast and in my direction and I'll figure out the consequences later. You want my melon slices? I'm not in the mood. And put the coffee on would you? I'll be needing it. I always do.

Oh but today I ate lobster. Mainly because I love the word crustaceans. Crusteceans. Ooh.

Day Three. Eat up!

2011-06-29T12:35:00.001-07:00

Two months ago there was a heated discussion between myself and the hubby about the purchase of this mug (yes, life is that exciting!). I said '$18 is much too pricey darling honey favorite one, what- are we made of money?' but Forrest insisted 'wifey, treasure, dearest heart, I see what you mean but I really must have it'. I think that's roughly how it went... Well, I relented because I am super-nice. Anyways, two weeks after this item joined our already sprawling collection of coffee cups, Forrest deployed to Afghanistan.

Now I have used this mug every single day since he left. And I enjoy it. So this is me eating my words (which, by the way, taste better with coffee...).

We are going back to Gatlinburg when Forrest is home for R&R in November. I will buy my own mug. It will sit proudly and expensively next to Forrest's, and there will be no more talk of it. (Maybe after an initial personality clash and a few awkward jokes they'll fall in love and get married. It happens to the best of us).

Aside from coffee cups, I had some of my favorite company for dinner. My friend Lesley the worker-bee needs to be lured away from her study-notes with sangria from time to time. I do my best to oblige. Plus, my dogs are in LOVE with her, so it's a win win when she comes over.

In all, an exciting day for food! high fives and a clear-ish conscience. (incase you hadn't noticed, we are ignoring the breakfast cookie and the thirty one m&ms. oh and the sangria. Who mentioned pizza? Yikes)

Foodstuff. Day Two.

2011-06-28T20:43:00.001-07:00

We admired the asparagus. It was beautiful. I ate it.

Nashville Farmers Market has a lot to answer for. Purple Peppers. My addiction to handmade soap. A considerably depleted bank account. On the upside, I guess I'm healthier, cleaner, but alas, still poorer....

Felix surveyed unfolding events whilst tap-dancing in the kitchen and staring down the roast beef, eyes as wide as saucers. That was my day. Oh, and learning how to 'stay'....(hooray!)

Every Last Morsel.

2011-06-27T16:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday is Day 1.

Give me a game, I will play it. Paper, I will draw on it. Dog? I will walk it. Food, I will cook it (then eat it). I am one of those people....I have to be doing something, always. (I sleep well at night).

I could use a bit of focus though. I need a map. A mentor. a GPS. Something to say go this way for more than 2 minutes. Otherwise you never get very far. Y'know? I do.

So my plan for the week is this: (and oh it is simple. Delicious and simple. Did I mention delicious? And simple. Ok). I'm doing a food diary. Something 1000 people before me have done, but I jump onto the bandwagon with enthusiasm and a shrug. I bet we all eat different things, after all. If somebody else drew 'Betty Jo's Hot Slaw' in their food blog, then knock me down with a feather- and feed me my own words. 'Til then, I present to you Day One of this challenge. And it actually IS a challenge, when I'm faced with a cookie that I want to eat (very badly, for I am a piglet) but must draw it first.....

I'm trying to keep it all about the food, but other things creep in. Hi Bob the Turtle. There was also an interesting storm cloud and I only just managed to hold back on a picture of the dogs.....

So that's day one. Simple, delicious....ever so slightly fatty.

oh, and also.....

2011-06-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

The previous post is only half the story. I was very fortunate when I moved to the US a year ago. The very best people chose to befriend me, including my (crazy 'Auntie') Linda- the funniest, most charismatic, caring person that ever there was. She and Rudydog have been the best of friends since the day they met (he was about 12 wks old) and I’m really just a bystander in their dog/human mutual appreciation situation. Auntie Linda wasted no time in inviting me and Rudy and Felix (and my sister, Kate) to stay at her house (coincidentally our old house!) for the duration of our visit to Southern Alabama. I say the duration…naturally we had to nip off to Florida to say hi to the beach, where I sampled my first ever bowl of gumbo, slept for an undisturbed night in a hotel without the dogs (love them, but bliss!) and swam and sunbathed and chatted and giggled until I really felt like I’d exhaled for the first time in a while. The photos sum it up rather well, I think!

I also strive to fulfill the role of a thoughtful wife, and went on an enthusiastic shell-search along the Florida shoreline, so that the desk of my lovely husband in Afghanistan can be brightened up with a jar of said treasures. Found some cool ones too! Check. It. Out!! Paperweight?

So long! Farewell! Aufwiedersehn, Adieu.

2011-06-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

Though I feared my sanity was at stake, I decided to pack the dear dogs into the car, have a stern conversation with the GPS and haul my self and 1000 items of luggage (I swear the dogs are like kids, and I was never a light traveler) on an 8-hour drive down to Enterprise, Alabama. After 4 months away, I have been missing some of my dearest friends from our old neighborhood and since one particular family is so inconveniently moving to Germany in a few weeks (boo Army) I figured it was time to show my face again. The sweet wife of this dynamic couple has been sending me care packages ever since I left town, so lately I’ve been racking my brains about what I could do for them in return. I did indeed hit upon a flash of inspiration. Anybody remember Forrest’s and my doggy trays of old? Well, excuse me for stealing my own theme- but …you can guess the rest.

My delivery mission was a success and my old pals seemed suitably charmed by my efforts. (Chad flies Apaches, the two Blondies are Abby and Gracie- their sweet spaniels and the German theme is self-explanatory).

Aufwiedersehn, Temples…miss you already.

Apache patch

2011-06-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

Though I don’t entirely count out the possibility of making multi-millions with my savvy business ability and award-winning artworks one of these days (cough)…..I’m still kinda one for doing favors since y’know, what goes around comes around. I try to keep on good terms with Karma. So when one of my favorite neighbors of old asked me to design a patch for his Apache helicopter class, how could I say no? I couldn’t! I didn’t.

There is this crazy thing with Apaches, where the pilots are trained to fly ‘the bag’. That is, with all the windows blacked out. Flying ‘blind’. Talk about a rite of passage into an elite group. I was lucky enough to witness one of these training sessions from the ATC tower one sunny Saturday morning in January. Some of the (often unintentional) Apache acrobatics performed by the flight school students were a bit dizzying, to say the least.

So, these bright young things fly helicopters to keep America safe. I design their patches to keep them happy. Good deal. The design- as I know you have guessed- is an apache student flying ‘the bag’. Your powers of deduction are second to none.

So I approached my house the other day, to a waiting box. The kind of box that says ‘get excited, I am full of treats’. There ain’t no better type of box. So while I didn’t ask for payment, this sweet class of pilots sent me a gift basket full of delights (thank you, I DO like to smell of ‘orchid blossom’ whenever possible!), and of course, one of the patches. I think it’s pretty neat. Glad I could help!

One, Two, Skip a few....(and suddenly it's June!)

2011-06-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

Oh I have been a bad blogger. A bad bad blogger......Four short months ago we moved house. And State. The dog, the turtle, ourselves. Hello Clarksville, Tennessee!

Amid confusion and chaos, my Greencard showed up. Irony is....just when I finally get the freedom to be with and stay with my husband, he was preparing to get whisked away from me. The Army can be such a party pooper! Forrest was settling in at work under the expectation of being deployed at the click of somebody's fingers, while I unpacked boxes, cooked meals, promised Rudy that everything was okay (our dear emotional Shepherd!). My family visited (from England!), we acquired Mister Felix (emotional Shepherds: Part II), I started eating meat. I learned to use the lawn mower. The weed eater. The DVD player (I'm still a bit fuzzy on that one actually....).

We met neighbours. We made friends. We went to football games. We drank wine. We took photos.

Then we turned into me. Me and the dogs, that is. The dogs and the turtle.

Now I am a pro at catching mosquito eaters. I am a disaster at swatting flies. I am a wreck at the sight of (HUGE Tennessee) spiders. I'm paying the bills. Watching the news with one ear closed. Getting less sleep. Drinking more coffee.

It's been busy around here....the laundry needs doing and the puppy just sprinted past with one of my slippers. I've missed you bloggers and readers, commenters and friends. This is me making my return....sneaking in the side door. Pretending like I was never gone. How've you all been?! And what did I miss?

Back-tracking and catching up!

2011-03-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

February tiptoed past, silently blogless. The past month has been a whirlwind. Remind me, which way is up?

January ended with good news and bad news and good news again (good wins every time!). Firstly, my Greencard arrived (hip-hooray for being an almost permanent fixture over here). Secondly we discovered that almost immediately after our impending arrival at our new duty station, Forrest would be unceremoniously stolen from our happy home to be deployed to Afghanistan (sucker punch, meet my stomach). Thirdly, gloriously and tipping the balance in favor of smiles, Forrest graduated flight school- and I got the chance to pin his wings (stab myself in the thumb), and blink back a bucket-load of proud tears.

January turned into February where my hours, days, weeks and moons were all consumed with packing. Celebrating our youth and exercising our ignorance, we decided to move ourselves. Who needs movers for the 10 hour trip from Enterprise, AL to Clarksville, TN? Even if it IS below freezing and there is snow and we have a million things, a dog, a turtle and we haven’t slept much lately? Not us! Fist pumps, back-slaps and…..yawn, stoopid.

Fast-forward a month. Slam on the breaks and here you will find me at our new home in Tennessee. There is much more to show and tell. Soon, I will get around to doing it!

Congraduations!

2011-01-24T07:56:00.000-08:00

If I were the sentimental type, I’d write this with a tear in my eye. I’m not, so I’ll just flash a ridiculous grin instead. This week my clever husband graduates flight school! Yes, I’m now expecting free helicopter tours of Alaska and the Grand Canyon, and yes I’ve been assured that I will not be getting them. Sigh….

Forrest’s Chinook class asked that I draw their picture for the plaque that they present to their instructors upon graduation. Probably against my better judgment, I accepted said challenge, saluted my pen box, and said a prayer. Helicopters aren’t exactly my specialty…but well, everybody loves a trier. And boy, did I try.

So for Forrest and CH47 Class 10-10- lemme hear some wolf whistles, gimme a Mexican wave, throw off your hats….it’s graduation time. Congratulations!

Mistletoe and Wine

2011-01-19T14:07:00.000-08:00

Christmastime. The newest installment in my memory museum is bright with adventure and new experiences. During our Christmas road trip to California we managed to pass through just about every city that was making the news for horrendous weather conditions. However, with steely determination (and single minded intent to get to my Mother-in-law’s homemade cookies), we arrived in Tahoe just in time for some hot pretzels and another giant dumping of snow. Snow shoeing ensued, snowballs were thrown, snow angels promptly made. The skies were generous with the white stuff…. though time on the other hand always seemed in short supply.

This time around we took Rudy along, and apart from demanding ball-throwing sessions in the -25c temperatures that we witnessed along the route, the boy did a sterling job. Forrest and I were proudest parents. From looking cute in the back seat to providing cuddles when I was cold, Rudy was a help rather than a hindrance and more than worth the compromises made to take him with us. But then again, with my melted heart, it’s difficult to see anything less than perfection when it comes to that boy…..my judgment can’t be trusted!

Christmas in Napa with family-Neumann was everything I needed to keep homesickness at bay (for my first Christmas away from the Father and Mothership), and winetasting, wedding showers, and catching up with old friends and family kept the schedule pretty much overflowing until it was time to leave again. Fast-forward to 2011, and the snowstorms were back for round two, new years resolutions hung questioningly in the air, my immigration paperwork required more attention and Forrest’s impending flight school graduation were the reality checks that reined us back down to earth and out of the heady orbit of Christmas euphoria. Talk about a welcome to the new year….

The next few months hold a lot of changes and challenges for our family of three, with Forrest’s possible deployment to Afghanistan hanging over me like a grey cloud. First though, it’s time to pack up our things and move to Tennessee for Forrest’s next duty station. Do the countdown with me…. Holy cowboy hats, it’s only three weeks!

Aspirations to be an Elf

2010-12-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

Well, Thanksgiving swept me sideways and it took me a while to find my sea legs again. It was my first year of hosting all the Neumanns, (and my first year as a Neumann) and I've got to say, I was not prepared for the sheer quantity of pie that entered my world. I welcomed it though, oh yes I did. It was a wonderful holiday- calorific and fun filled. In hindsight however, it appears that it distracted me from things that I would normally have begun gearing up for weeks ago. Namely; Christmas! (if I could make it flash gold and red and sing as well, I would do it. Green was the best I could do....). I had big plans this year too, so there was catching up to do. With my sparkly new printing press winking at me from across the room, I plunged into some 'trial and error' crafting that has resulted in an unexpected aversion to turpentine, an almost sliced-off finger (gore!) and a stack of Christmas cards that would rival your most glitter filled-fantasy. Are they perfect? Not on your nelly. Do I think they are a tiny bit charming? I'll let you decide.....

To know me, is to know my dog, so it seemed only right that Rudy be my muse for my first homemade christmas cards on his first-ever Christmas. We did name him Rudolph (for about 2 minutes) after all! The tree is up, the house smells like cookies and next up, hand-printed gift wrap….Somewhere along the way (Mister Neumann, I hope you are paying attention) I have my fingers crossed for mulled wine. 'Tis the season to be merry, after all :)

Lost Property

2010-11-18T15:25:00.000-08:00

I have been stuck deep in the swamp of updating my illustration website. The documents folder of my computer is treacherous terrain indeed, so I had to put on my serious slippers for this one, lest I lose my footing among all the drawings of my meandering past. This process is always the gateway to re-discovery of old drawings, lost drawings and drawings I have no recollection of (thank you, hopeless memory of mine). I felt so sad for these forgotten pictures that I thought I'd welcome them into 2010, give them a stage and say 'guys! hi!- I didn't really forget you!' (except that I did, so don't tell them). I dedicated a little slice of my website to them…..a 'lost property' page, to try and give them a home. I feel better for it......

It's all about the (four legged) boy.

2010-11-03T13:47:00.000-07:00

Like milk and cookies, Autumn and craft projects go hand in hand. The personalised laptray that I painted for Forrest was looking a little lonesome, so with Rudy as my most obliging muse, I got to work. Now the hubby and I have his & hers laptrays, so don't be telling me that romance is dead :)

In Rudy-news, we took our enormous baby to the local doggy salon the other day for his first independent grooming adventure. Testament to his winning nature, as the lady crouched down to say hi, Rudy reached out to shake her hand. Tears streamed down my face from laughing so hard, but I was proud as could be of his good manners (of course that's also his trick to get his dinner, so he could have been after treats....). Rudy returned home with a brand new bandana (guess he mustve charmed somebody) and smelling like a bar of soap. This may be the fluffiest, most fragrant week of Rudy's life. Extra cuddles, if I may.

The Flying Hotdog

2010-10-27T10:49:00.001-07:00

Forrest is deep into his flight training, sailing back and forth across the skies in the flying hotdog (Chinook) which- against all expectations- I have grown to love. The Chinook is the helicopter that carries everything, namely soldiers, aid, food and other helicopters (I kid you not). It is a stud muffin. A workhorse. The Daddy of the copters.

These pilots-in-training eat, sleep and breathe helicopters, and their enthusiasm is contagious- which is lucky, because the subject is otherwise a little dry. Engines? Rotor systems? Instruments? Torque? Thrust? Weather patterns? Brain pain indeed.

I approach the whole thing from my own angle. Visual. I drew a little picture to put in Forrest's study folder for the purpose of making him smile amid the stress of academics. Some eagle eyed class member caught sight of it, and consequently I'm being asked to draw the class 'plaque'. A picture of the pilots-in-training and their aircraft that is presented to their instructors upon graduation. Pens and paper standing at attention? Affirmative Captain (officer /lieutenant.....). What did I just get myself into?!

You say tomayto, I say tomahto!

2010-10-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

Capturing the taste of summer in pickled and oven-dried tomatoes. Preparing for the winter months when those trusty red orbs lack a little of their Summer luster. Rudy is co-ordinated for the colour theme of the day. My pretty little boy is so patient with my style choices for him :)

Drawing is taking a momentary back-seat while I've been researching block-printing techniques. I grabbed caution with two hands, looked it in it's nervous face and tossed it into the wind. I then ordered the printing press that I've been arguing with myself about lately. I'm ready to add a little somethin'-somethin' to my usual style of work. With two books that I illustrated for Philo Trust being published in time for Christmas, some new ideas for my very own Children's book have been whirling about in my head. It's time to put the coffee on and kick the brain into gear. I've been slipping a bit. Distracted by 100 different things. But now...new season, new page, new work. Come on.

By the way, the oven-dried tomatoes were a winning idea that I lifted from one of my favourite foodie blogs; Tea and Cookies. Always, always a good read.

Summer folds up her Beach Towel.

2010-10-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

I welcome Autumn with a smile. I've got love and hugs for this season, as I contemplate the cosy allure of woolly socks and hot chocolates. The resident horse has mastered a winning technique for high-jumping onto the bed- stealthy as a ninja- so that the dark mornings come into focus with doggy kisses as four paws sneak along my side of the bed. The boy knows who feeds him, apparently.

There are end-of-the-Summer bike trips to lakes and the beach, as we cling on to the sunshine with fondness. Matching neckerchiefs for Rudy and me is October Vogue, and a 1lb burger challenge at the weekend firmly closes the door on swimsuit season.

October arrived with pride and a paintbrush.

2010-10-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

When you are as impatient a person as I am, waiting out the greencard application process can get a little fraying on the nerves. The eternity that it takes is a unique sort of torture- in the limitations that it places upon you, where you sit around twiddling your thumb -wishing you could work- while you try and find purpose in every day. There is at least an upside to this state of limbo, and rather than lamenting the limitations of my predicament, I am coaching myself to appreciate the time that has been gifted to me as a result of it.

Once we get past the mundane details of housewifeliness- the washing, the sandwich making, the cleaning, the shopping- I have hours stretched out before me for illustrative adventures, craft projects, baking and quality time with the fam-damily.

My treasure of a husband was recently promoted to 1st Lt. and the great honor was bestowed upon me to pin on his new rank and give him a punch (an Army tradition that I was more than happy to continue). Seeing Forrest work so hard every day, and meeting his friends who are some outstanding guys makes me proud to be part of this community, and proudest of my pancake making, football playing, copter-flying husband. To mark the occasion, I made him a....well....dinner tray, actually. Not the most elegant or romantic of gifts but hey, we Neumanns are all about practicality! Inspired by the four-legged-wonder-Rudy- and Forrest's other interests, the design is quite pleasing to me. After painting, I covered the whole thing in varnish, for luck (and protection).

So congrats, 1st Lieutenant Neumann....next time I won't punch you quite so hard!

Durango and the long road home......

2010-09-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

When I think of Durango in future, it will almost certainly be set in my mind along side the colour turquoise. There will be a taste of honey on my tongue, and I'll no doubt have a hankering to throw on a cowboy hat and just slow down a little. My experience of Colorado so far has been most therapeutic. My only previous visit to this state has been the Denver airport, where I once drank a pumpkin frappuccino on Halloween and walked about 20 miles whilst trying to find an illusive departure gate. It's funny what you remember.

By this point in the trip our bodies were opting for the most leisurely activities, which wound up with us spending our final day at a lake in Animas Valley, reclined at the waters edge, sharing our picnic with a chipmunk.

Our journey back into town took us past 'Honeyville', which- amid the giant rainstorm we were caught in- sang to me like a choir of angels. I was inside that place before Forrest had even parked the bike.

To my delight there was a real beehive inside a glass case and a pipe through which bees could buzz in and out of the building, quite at their leisure. We emerged from the store an hour later weighed down with more honey than you could shake a stick at, and high as kites from all the flavours we'd sampled. Seriously though- amaretto honey? Cinnamon? Spiced apple? I challenge you to resist. My Nanna used always used to say my eyes were bigger than my belly, as I'd lie beached after some cookie raid or other. Old habits die hard. I am a piglet.

So I was becoming a little teary eyed and sentimental about this place. We were sleepy and almost ready to be home, but goodness knows I've fallen head over heels for Colorado. The cool air, every view being unique and beautiful, the lakes, the wildlfe, and my own heightened awareness and appreciation of all these things. On the flipside, I will not miss John Denver playing on repeat in my head and on the radio, as if it's the price that must be paid for being here. 'Colorado Rocky Mountains High'- goodbye and goodbye.

So it was time to pack our bags and get skidaddling. The GPS was again stating '659 miles until your next turn', and energy drinks were back in style. Somewhere in Oklahoma we snatched 4 hours of sleep, sleep-walked to the coffee machine, wondered if our brains were still knocking around inside our skulls somewhere, then hit the road for another 17 hours without later remembering a single mile of it.

But of course it isn't all yawns and wails of despair, because it was hard to suppress a smile every time I thought of what awaited us at home. Rudy, the world's biggest, bestest puppy did everything he could to restore our enthusiasm in being back here. The boy is a champ, I think I'm glad to be home :)

Shiny, pretty things (and sandy rocky things) at the Mesa Verde.

2010-09-21T13:49:00.000-07:00

These were some of the last days before the bike went back on the trailer. Being keen to remain wind-beaten and sunkissed for as long as possible, Forrest and I rode from Moab to the Mesa Verde with Forrest acting as an on-board radio to keep me awake. Him singing with tuneless abandon, and me doing the arm dances cost us a glance or three as we passed through lights and stop signs, but oh well.... wearing a helmet is such a useful disguise when embracing your inner-crazy.

We arrived at the Mesa Verde National Park at the exact moment a giant storm came to greet us. The weather had been our friend and foe with remarkable fickleness up until this point, so donning our jackets and putting our faith in sun god, we ventured forth, only to find ourselves at the top of the mountain an hour later, shedding layers and squinting against the bright sky. Lovely.

It was fascinating to learn about the lives of the Puebloans, and to see the cliff dwellings that still remain at the Mesa Verde. The museum boasts a fabulous array of jewelry, arrowheads, pottery, clothing and all sorts of other intricate handmade items that make today's destined-for-garbage products seem hugely disappointing. The skill and the artistry of those native dwellers is pretty amazing to be able to see, staring back at you from the inside of a glass case hundreds of years later. I am not much known for my love of history (to the despair of Dad- an ex history teacher; and my husband- a history nut. Or, just a nut.), but something about the lives of native Americans really piques my interest. Plus, they made the coolest shoes, so of course I'm paying attention!

Descending the mountain as the sun was setting, I almost inhaled my tongue when somebody exclaimed 'Look, a bear!'. Basically just a dark speck to the naked eye, Eb produced a telescope- Mary Poppins-like from his bag- and all of a sudden the bear could not have been more real as padded along the edge of the forest; muscular and majestic. This is the first bear I have ever laid eyes on, and back home in Alabama I get the feeling armadillos and boll weevils may have lost a little of their novelty. A bear. I couldn't believe it.

From this point onwards, every single corner we turned boasted a new and spectacular view, with shadows from the sunset falling across the mountains. With all the resolve we could muster, we finally tore ourselves away from the Mesa Verde, and found ourselves back in Cortez, at the Main Street Brewery which does the meanest brew I have ever tasted. 'Mean' as in awesome. Like 'bad' when it means good. Y'know....

We left some hours later with promises to return in December, navigating handshakes with the charming German owner and a whole box of souvenir beer (really, Forrest? necessary?!). Wheels turning once again, it's back to Durango as we lament the soon to be final days of our trip. First though, I've got a date with the chocolate shop, so let's get to it!

Desert days, I love you a lot.

2010-09-16T13:40:00.000-07:00

Our adventures in Moab seemed to me the kind of thing you read about in books. Whizzing around the canyon roads on the back of the bike, snapping pictures and identifying rock types- it felt as though Christmas had come early. An unusually hot and sandy Christmas- I grant you- but a gift, nonetheless.

My Father-in-law is one of those people who is useful to have around. An endless font of knowledge, and with the kind of internal compass that makes me look entirely lost at sea, Eb pretty much had our itinerary listed in the most time-effective schedule you could ever hope to achieve. The happy result of this was that during two days we did all these things:

*Visited the Canyonlands. Drove down the most treacherous canyon trail that thanks Forrest's 'hilarious' pranks and one-inch-from-the-edge driving, is sure to haunt my nightmares. Love you too, dear husband.

*Filled our water bottles from a fresh spring in the rocks (water has never tasted so clean).

*Journeyed through the Arches National Park where we encountered nature in all it's rocky, lizardy loveliness. The arches appeared to be playing musical statues, remaining frozen in one gravity-defying arrangement after another. Riding underneath a cloud-strewn sky, we got battered for 5 cheerless minutes by a fleeting rainstorm, just to remind us that we weren't infact on the surface of Mars. Then it was 500 degrees again, and we all fried.

*Also: sipped some local brews; marveled at the native art and ceramics; fell in love with the 'kokopelli' characters; tirelessly ate breakfast waffles like a hungry, hungry horse; sampled my first (and definitely not my last) affogato (gelato and expresso in a cup); sunburned my right leg, arm and cheek, which didn't do alot for my general appeal, but made me laugh out loud in the shower.

Then almost without warning, it was time to leave. So we did. Back to Durango, via Cortez and the Mesa Verde National Park. Not a moment to spare, so bike helmets on, ensure my ears are still attached to my head, and GO! Ok then.

Dessert in the Moab Desert. (sweet).

2010-09-11T05:52:00.000-07:00

The sign welcoming us to Utah didn't arrive a moment too soon as far as I was concerned. The drive through Nevada was- to be frank- squashed and uncomfortable. All 5ft 10 of me doesn't relish sardine-like conditions. Nonetheless, there is nothing like folding up your limbs and arranging yourself in numerous inconceivable positions for 580 miles to make you appreciative of a ride on the (motor)bike after it all.

The afternoon found us arriving at the Red Cliffs Lodge in Moab, which revealed itself to be quite the scenic masterpiece. The accommodations were exquisite, but- alas- we were only passing through for dinner. Still though, as a long time vegetarian who is tentatively welcoming fish into my diet, I've got to say their rainbow trout justified my dining-bravery (I consider every unfamiliar fish consumed to be a brave act at this point...).

It turns out that this particular location has played host many of the old westerns film sets, and all sorts of other modern movies that you presume were filmed somewhere of course, but not necessarily the place you happen to stop for dinner on a scorching, sweaty, sleepy day in the middle of your honeymoon.There was a museum with all manner of movie props, posters, and proud photos of the lodge as the backdrop to Brad Pitt and Susan Sarandon and any number of many-muscled actors from the old cowboy films.

There was a winery and tipis and beautiful gardens and scenery for which no amount of superlatives can do adequate justice. I ate like I wasn't planning on moving for a week, when in fact half an hour later I was delicately coaxing my bloated carcass back onto the bike as we headed for that trusty lodging- the Holiday Inn. Holiday Inns, as I have discovered on this trip are by no means of a consistent standard across the country. The one in Moab however, was like heaven on a plate- which is admittedly a ridiculous description of well... anything other than food- but suffice to say, it is very, very nice. And with that, it's time to take a breath, throw on some evening wear (that'll be the only clean T-shirt and whatever shorts/ jeans can be found at this point...) and go out and celebrate our arrival in Moab. This, I have been looking forward to!

6225 ft above sea level. Lake Tahoe.

2010-09-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

There seemed to be a pattern emerging concerning time, and the apparent shortness of it. Already I was perched on the back of the bike, waving to Napa in the wing mirrors as we headed east once more through the oven-like conditions of Sacramento. Onwards to Tahoe, where this time we intended to pay our dues and spend some time on those beloved, be-laked mountains.

Feeling more than a little travel-worn we arrived at Wright's Lake ready to shed our shoes, collapse on a warm rock and eat our picnic. We were becoming experts at the cheese, crackers and bottle of beer routine by now. Unfortunately as is usually the case, mosquitos had sensed the approach of my sweet-blooded self and had settled around me for a banquet. Attempting a hasty escape, I hopped towards the lake, fell off a log, sliced my leg open, laughed and cried and proceeded to swipe at every winged thing that dared appear in my line of vision for the remainder of the evening. Swiping- as it turns out- is not a fail-safe method of prevention. Next time I'm wearing a space suit.

Evenings were spent around the fire pit eating ice cream sandwiches and looking at the stars, while cuddling the family labrador and relaxing. Relaxing. (relaxing). I usually don't stop moving, so to find myself reclined on the porch deck, heavy limbed and heavy lidded- is testament to our play-hard ethic during this trip. Sleep was too easy, and mornings arrived in the blink of an eye. Family traditions die hard, with Mickey Mouse shaped pancakes to mark our final morning in Tahoe. With an afternoon to spare, I found myself getting all revved up on two small wheels- being taught by an admirably patient Forrest how to ride a Honda 100, an endearingly tiny motorcycle. Immediately I am in love. Apologies to my Mother, for this unwelcome statement...

But bikes on their kick-stands for now as it's time to head east again for a red-eye drive back through Nevada and onto Utah. This time, we had Forrest's parents and the motorbike in tow; ingredients for good times indeed. Many hours away, but worth every mile was our next stop: the Moab Desert. Rocks after rocks beyond rocks; more rocks.

Destination West: Napa Valley, (my adopted) home.

2010-08-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

California is the state where mine and Forrest's story began almost four years ago. A lot has happened since that evening spent watching 'Eurotrip' (Oh God) at my sister's apartment, where Forrest spent the entire evening talking to his feet because he was too shy to look at me.

Now we are arriving in Sacramento- where a family birthday party is being held- and Forrest's parents are giving us bear hugs, referring to us both as their children and me feeling like I've come home. As far as the 'in laws' lottery goes- I hit the jackpot.

So after a night of sleeping like we meant it, we were up and at 'em and on our way to Napa Valley where Forrest grew up; my adopted home. Forrest was in constant motion, squirming and fidgeting as he declared more times than I could count about how he could not wait to be reunited with his motorbike. YES DEAR, I know. He'd been waxing lyrical about it for the past five days. By now I knew it better than my own name. The bike was waiting at his parents house and I thought he'd cry when he saw it.

I could stay in Napa forever, but if I'm only getting three days then I'd spend them doing exactly this:

*Meeting the baby goats- Nova and Austin- who have ears like Jar Jar Binks. Wonderful!

*Catching up with friends Nate and Tammy who treated us to the best meal I've eaten since forever, and who's gorgeous kids make me think: Definitely, someday.

*Becoming reacquainted with the motorcycle and submitting to a ridiculous T-shirt tan.

*Riding to the cheese factory in Petaluma. Buying cheese. Eating cheese. Eating more cheese. Cheese.

*Dropping in on Sonoma- my favourite town for coffee, fudge, beehive cakes and...dish towels, actually.

*Spending time with Forrest's parents. Plus Moni's legendary breakfasts. Yums.

Also: Salsalito, Lappert's ice cream, Route 1, California weather, Armstrong & Getty on the radio, Chip & Olly (our old turtles) and In 'n' Out Burger. YES Please.

The Road to California!

2010-08-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Tonopah quickly became a fading memory as we lined California up in our sights. There was never a more impatient pair than we, as 'Lake Tahoe' showed up on the GPS, provoking a quick round of the happy dance and some California type sound track, probably the Chili Peppers. Phantom Planet. The Beach Boys.

The GPS looked confident, but we threw our eggs in a different basket with our choice of route towards the stateline. Sporting an attitude of nonchalance that usually spells disaster (but today with a stroke of luck)- we found ourselves approaching Tahoe along some gravelly mountain road that really wouldn't be advisable if you have ambitions for keeping a clean car. Since we'd already put dear Walt (yes, we named our truck) through the wringer twice and thrice, we figured a final coat of dust wouldn't be such an inconvenience.

We wound through the mountains with almost my entire torso balancing and swishing outside of the window. A sunny breeze is not something you will under rate if you've spent the past 3 months melting in a Southern Summer as we have. Lucky Boy Pass was like a discovered secret as we meandered through the mountains with the sun and shadows playing colorfully in the valleys. There were some questionable navigational decisions, mini river-crossings and cocking of eyebrows but California is like a magnet and eventually the Welcome sign appeared before us to rapturous applause from Forrest and myself. From there we could pretty much smell Lake Tahoe, with Forrest winding down all the windows shouting 'pine! pine! pine!' and me rubbing my hands together in anticipation of Papagayos, the most delicious little Mexican Grill in- quite probably- the whole world.

Of course we were flagged down at the visitors station to assure those serious looking fellows that no, we did not have a cargo of bananas or insects or tigers or foreign dirt ( though driving a truck that looks like it has been wrestling in a sand pit probably didn't help our case....). Eventually though, fueled up on burritos and tacos, we wasted no time in shooting through Tahoe and on to the Capital City. Our home from home, Sacra-tomato.

The Quiet Miles (through Utah and Nevada)

2010-08-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

There is something pleasantly calming about driving for hours and rarely passing another vehicle (I'm talking about you, Nevada). There is also something definitely disconcerting about the road sign which casually states 'no services for 100 miles'. Are you sure? Oh lord.

Utah seemed to boast a pleasing abundance of cars from an era when style prevailed over efficiency. I have love for the old look, but alas, no car smarts. So I blow it a kiss and we are on our way again, with me sighing 'one day....' and Forrest raising an eyebrow.

The last stretch of our journey westwards was a mess of mountains, desert and shrubbery. There were also salt flats and vacuum packed pasta and tiny kamikaze birds that kept zooming most terrifyingly towards our windscreen. There was not much else.

If like me you are a fan of the desert sunset, then you would enjoy this part of the trip. I mean really, I could almost have wept at the scenery (if I wasn't otherwise engaged with just trying to stay awake).

At about 8pm and ready for a year of sleep, we pulled into Tonopah, which really doesn't have much to recommend it, I'm afraid. Never matter, for our sights were set on California, just afew gravel tracks, pulsing highways, sleepy backroads and some number of miles away. First though, sleep. Secondly, waffles. Thirdly,looting some toiletries because hotel soap was never this good, and fourthly, finally, goodbye Nevada- California, here we come :)

The First of the Big Rocks.

2010-08-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

It turns out I married an encyclopedia; a human sponge. It's a weird thing, when you always secretly thought you were the clever one in a relationship, then suddenly you are being lectured about the history of your own country (by your 'foreign' husband) or how rock formations work, or what kind of lizard that is, not to mention the probable origin of the lunch you are eating, and the inner workings of the car you are driving. Well excuse me dear, while I look out the window at the pretty rocks...

Many indulgent hours were spent at Colorado National Monument as Forrest inhaled facts at all the information boards and I admired the views and snapped photos and just sort of stood around open-mouthed in absolute delight at our surroundings. At 'Cold Shivers Point' I was glad my Mum wasn't there to watch me hop across some stepping stone rocks and balance on a ledge suspended high above the canyon. We yodeled our way around various viewpoints (well, Forrest yodeled, I more accurately bleated), and felt very satisfied with our time in Colorado as we finally made our way out of the park and over to Utah.

With the promise of two days driving and a whole lot of desert between here and California we sped onwards feeling very Thelma and Louise-ish, fidgeting in anticipation since the best was yet to come. Still, let us not overlook the two states that we first had to journey across. Utah and Nevada, how sandy, how rocky, how surprisingly scenic you are.

Rainbow after the storm in Grand Junction, CO.

2010-08-17T18:41:00.000-07:00

The sun suddenly seemed a little low in the sky as Forrest and I dawdled in Ouray, trying to force upon each other the remains of the richest cafe mocha the world has ever produced. After heated debate, I ate the whipped cream, he drank the chocolatey soup. Testing out the new roles of marriage starts with sugary self-sacrifice. Hello, muffin top.

Eventually we consulted our watches. Then we shrieked.Then we set out at a considerable pace into a giant storm as we nervously contemplated a night of camping in Grand Junction, which we otherwise referred to as Junction City or Grand Thingy or The Campground at the Junction and every other combination and permutation imaginable; for I assure you- that name cannot be committed to memory.

We dodged cloudburst after cloudburst til we eventually got suckered into the torrent of rain that took us all the way to our KOA campground. Rather fortuitously, our campsite was located about 100 meters beyond the last raincloud of the day. We pulled into our spot which was framed neatly by a rainbow- and I challenge you to name a better welcome than that!

Doing as all weary campers must- we grudgingly erected our tent, explored the facilities,built a fire, got annoyed with each other by some trivial matter or other, then made up over a glass of wine and a cheese sandwich.

Soon it was bedtime, even sooner it was morning, then the requisite: 'Where's the bug repellent? Where are the clean t-shirts? Yes, you are having a shower, the coolbox needs ice, we're running out of milk, no I don't have the car keys, where did you put the camera? Our bleary-eyed confusion played out like a cartoon strip, until after quite a scramble we were on our way again. Westwards, via Colorado National Monument for our first (of many) big rock sightings. John Denver CD at the ready.

Million Dollar Highway, CO

2010-08-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

Even the rain couldn't dampen a mood as delighted as mine when we set out along the Million Dollar Highway. Squeezing along the edge of a mountain road behind a delivery truck that is scraping (literally) along the mountain wall does make for a most entertaining passage of time. Curled into my seat next to my #1 crush and stocked up with snacks and a camera, I questioned what more I could possibly want from life. The answer was a stroll, so to the smell of burning brakes and with an appetite for icecream, we pulled into Silverton- a Victorian mining town located down in the belly of a mountain valley.

The first thing I saw was a most enchanting horse and carriage clopping down the road. The second thing I saw was my giant scoop of icecream rolling off it's cone and being caught by my other hand. sticky. Then I saw a train shop and purchased a souvenir for my patch collection. (When I look at that closely it occurs to me that I'm just a wide-eyed, clumsy, patch collecting tourist. aka. such a geek.)

At this point, the concept of time and distance gets lost in a haze of mountains and trees and photos and energy drinks, so I can simply state that 'somewhere up the road', our next stop was Ouray. If Silverton was pleasant (which it was), then Ouray I can only describe as being 'more pleasant'. Because it's kind of the same as Silverton, but...y'know, better. It looked somehow prouder of itself. And why not? It was lovely. The evening was drawing closer and with some hours of driving left before our intended camping location, we visited 'Mouses Chocolate shop' and proceeded to consume sugar and caffeine as if we were on holiday or something. Life is sweet (and caffeinated), and we were really running late, so onwards to Grand Junction, for, dare I say it? ....Camping! On our honeymoon. Yes.

Durango, Colorado. And....relax.

2010-08-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

Forrest and I are at opposing ends of the scale when it comes to our preferred waking hours. I am an early bird and tried to swing momentum in my favour accordingly. I mean there was breakfast to think of. Mountains to admire. Cool air to swoosh about in. It's fair to say that Forrest grew accustomed to being pulled out of bed by his feet, and surrendered (eventually) to having clean clothes thrust towards him as I propelled him each day into wakefulness. I mean, we were in Colorado; I could hardly be contained beyond sunrise. My poor husband. Oh well.

Durango is a gorgeous old Western town, best known perhaps for it's steam train, but best loved by me for it's being home to the original Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Yes, I'm that girl. All of those irritating sayings about women and chocolate? That's because of people like me. I confess it.

But still, I can appreciate a bit of engineering genius and the steam train museum was moderately entertaining even for me of fishlike attention span. The model train set was a highlight. I mean there were teeny American diners and little mountains with tinier tunnels and there were buttons to press. Buttons are the way to my heart.

As one would expect, we were spoiled by the scenery; the mountain roads, the lakes, the wildlife. I was in marmit heaven, and don't get me started on the chipmunks (I wuv 'em!). But all in good time, for we were about to set out along the historic (apparently) Million Dollar Highway, at my personal request. Tomorrow tomorrow, I love you tomorrow.

Alabama to Colorado. 30 sleepless hours.

2010-08-04T13:41:00.001-07:00

The first day of our trip was the longest. When you are driving for thirty hours without a break you will:

-Stop as you enter every state to take a photo with the sign, until after 3 States, you give up. You just do.

-Find that energy drinks are a concept you will entertain. often.

-Listen to all of your favourite songs until they are your least favourite ever.

-Sing Bohemian Rhapsody with your husband, and realise nothing has ever been funnier.

-Threaten ugly murder upon the GPS and flick it really hard. You learn a lesson about the toughness of the GPS and the weakness of your finger.

-Become enchanted by small-town America, though disappointed with it's bathrooms.

-Wonder if you can get sunburnt through a window (the answer to which you will discover some hours later is 'apparently so').

-After 20 hours, wonder why driving across the country seemed like a good idea, then you reach Colorado and smile and breathe; at which point your lungs ask you where the oxygen went.

-Finally drive with fast-dissolving sanity into Durango, CO. Without any later memory of it; you find your room, fall into bed and sleep like a log. The laziest, sleepiest log you ever knew.

Forrest and I woke up on Sunday morning at the beautiful Strater Hotel with a renewed zest for life. At breakfast we were educated about the local enthusiasm for 'posole', and I was reminded how good a cream cheese bagel is. With this, the journey had commenced!

Honeymoon starts here....

2010-08-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

I have been a dreadful, terrible blogger of late. There are so many excuses, yet really none at all, because we do what we do what we do, and that's that. I should have been drawing more. It's my bread and butter, after all. My pen and paper.

So, now it is with zest and enthusiasm (and really, what more is there?) that I embark on the visual re-living of the past few weeks. America is a beautiful country. I know so more than ever. Here, over a number of blog posts, is why I love it.

It was with a lick of the finger to the wind and not a lot else in the way of planning that Forrest and I set out on our honeymoon three weeks ago. It was proposed that we would embark on a giant road trip from Alabama to California and back. Via Colorado, you say? Through Moab? Napa Valley? I have a weakness for adventure. I didn't need much convincing.

First off, we had to say goodbye to the little-ish boy. So with one last cuddle and a wave, he was off to Auntie Linda's for two weeks of luxury-living. Bye Rudy! (thank you Linda!).

Mrs Louise Neumann. That is me, I am she.

2010-05-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

We found two matching shells on the beach. Our 'married shells'. The tanned, muscly one resembles Forrest, and the white and weedy one is me, to a tee :)

As of last Thursday, I'm embracing my new status as the wife.

I powered through the giggles (an affliction of mine) to say 'I do' at the appropriate moment and landed one on my new husband's lips with all the grace (not much) and hilarity (plenty) that befits my usual manner. If there wasn't a video as evidence of the event, I'd probably still be asking whether it really did happen.

I should probably feel 'different', but this is simply not the case. I suppose I had already felt secure. I was already making lunches with good wifely enthusiasm ("mystery sandwiches' tomorrow, Dear?'). Forrest and I already bickered like husband and wife. Plus, married or not I will always forget to squeeze the toothpaste from the end of the tube. Nothing has changed.

The wedding was rushed for the sake of my visa requirements, so after my low expectation of the thing, I was ridiculously tickled by the loveliness of it, really. Who knew we would have the sweetest little lady in the whole of Alabama to conduct the ceremony, and who knew there would be surprise wedding cake, and a photographer, celebrations and a weekend at the beach with two of our nearest and dearest. The manta rays even came to play. My memory museum just opened a new archive.

My Big Baby.

2010-05-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

The boy is growing up/ The boy is still a baby

The boy is making friends/ Family photo

City drawing. Country living.

2010-05-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Re-doing a portfolio piece that could use some fine-tuning:

I think I always dreamt about cities. I think I still do. San Francisco holds the key to my heart, and the mere thought of New York awakens ambition like nothing else.

Despite this, life at the moment couldn't be more 'country'- but it's really not that bad because I like the fact that we have our own (small) yard, I like that we can grow tomatoes, I like to run past fields of grazing cows, and I definitely like watching the little furry one sprinting in circles on his miniature garden racetrack. I even like cowboy shirts and freckled noses.

Speaking of the four-legged one, I'm fairly sure he ate a toad last night. I was treated to an audio and visual production that nobody would welcome at 3.30am. It's lucky I love that little Stinker...

work and play.

2010-05-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

For the first time in many months I have a little time to throw around and decide what to do with. It is far too easy to dedicate all my minutes to the dear little Sharkface who is growing at the most ridiculous of rates. However, even the furry one sleeps occasionally, and it's high time my website had a bit of an overhaul.

Give me a month and it'll have to change all over again, when I find myself answering to a different name. Out with the Egger, in with the Neumann. But it's a matter of the baby steps for now. And speaking of babies, I think I can hear the thump of little (actually frighteningly large) puppy paws marching up the stairs. At 13 weeks, both of his ears have popped up, and he's less Sharkface, more Vampire Bat. The look on my face says it all.

Sweet home Alabama.

2010-04-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

The camellia is the state flower in my sweet new home, Alabama.
I've experienced the requisite spell of homesickness, now it's time to embrace the new life. My moment of clarity occurred at precisely 6.35 am as I jogged along the road- loving the sunrise, cursing the heat, waving at the cows, watching my knees turn pink. 'Well, this is life now' I said to myself. At 6.30 in the morning, I am not one for complex thought.

Adjustments are taking place. Growing up (more? yes, more!) must be done because I'm Mummy now. Mummy to the softest pair of ears in the neighbourhood. Walking, feeding, learning, playing, discipline and cuddles. Always the cuddles. I was prepared yet unprepared, but I've got so much time for this unco-ordinated, long-legged puppy who makes me smile every time I look at him. Pretty little Sharkface, the boy is a champ.

4297 miles west.

2010-04-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the combined effects of jet lag and a puppy, I've spent a lot of time in the company of my coffee mug just lately....

It is not without tremendous relief and cheer that I can say I finally made it back to the USA (pre-volcanic ash debacle!).

There is a puppy chewing on my toe and he is ours. The boy is at work 20 minutes away which definitely beats the distance of an ocean and a 9 hour plane journey.

It is everything I was hoping for, yet now that I'm here I hardly know what to do with myself. As anticipated I'm just a little homesick. My parents, my friends and always that naughty little Ellie-the-dog.

We've got our own baby now though. The furry Shepherd who rounds us up when we are in different rooms. Who bites our elbows, toes and wrists. Who follows me everywhere I go with his expression of concern. That's Rudy, my little love.

Fairy Fingers, what else?

2010-04-03T12:06:00.000-07:00

Work, rain and thumb-twiddling. I may never have felt this impatient in all my life. Time has stopped, I'm sure of it. Waiting isn't something I do well.

Watching the rain fall outside, it seems like things need brightening up a bit. Flowers always help. Foxgloves- though poisonous- go by other amusing names that make me smile. 'Fairy Fingers, Witch's Glove and Deadman's Bells'. The stuff of fairytales. Today it suits my mood perfectly.

Name, Address, Date of Birth.

2010-03-28T08:32:00.000-07:00

I'm drowning in paperwork this week. See you on the other side, I hope.

It's not all bad though. I have procured some minutes from my non-existent stash of time and made some sketchbooks. It's been on the list for an eternity, there really was no more ignoring it. The fruits of my labour are, I must admit quite pleasing. There is nothing like a handmade sketchbook. Nothing in the world. The fabric spines are my old pyjamas, a long-suffering bookbag, and a square of mystery fabric that I have no recollection of ever acquiring. Perfecto-mundo.

A visit to The Smoke.

2010-03-23T05:23:00.000-07:00

I like London. Really I do. Y'know- the busy streets and secret alleyways and the coffee shops and the landmarks. That big city feeling- you know the one.

I didn't notice any of that last Thursday though. I woke up at 3am. Showered at 5. Tried to swallow some breakfast at 6. Gave up and got on the Tube at 7. Took a deep breath in front of the US Embassy at 9. The rest is a blur. More so than you'd imagine.

The last 7 months have panned out well and I have much to be grateful for. But life has been in limbo and I'm more than ready to be back in the States with the boy. The weight of that had my stomach in a tangle on Thursday morning, to say the very least.

After three hours of watching a screen for my number to appear, I managed to exchange afew pleasantries with the immigration officer before my body said 'nope' and well... I fainted. Right in the middle. of. the. embassy.

I don't remember much other than opening my eyes wondering why I was lying star-shaped on the floor. Almost a week later, I can giggle with the best of them about how it all played out. At the time, I was seeing stars, being offered cookies and saying 'I feel a bit silly' while having my blood pressure taken and being assessed as looking 'very grey'. oh good. This was not how I'd planned it.

Replaying this incident in my mind makes me want to stick my fingers in my ears and hum loudly. It's hard to look that memory in the face. But on the upside, despite missing a form which will delay my departure, my application was approved! I get to marry the boy.

I should express my gratitude to the people at the Embassy who were very sweet to me during this little drama. They will never read this, but they deserve a mention, as kindness must be recognised, I think. Thanks also to my Mum and sister who both took days off work to jolly me along (...thanks also to my dog, and my lucky socks and....). Ok, that is all :)

This was a big deal for me, I'm excited for the future.

Tea and Travel

2010-03-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

After four magnificent months, my current job (illustrating Christmas books for Philo Trust) is almost wrapped up. Like all roller coasters it has to finish, and like all roller coasters, I wish it didn't. I'm a glutton for the fever of it.

So it's time to tread that promotional trail once more. Cards and emails and "look at me, I'm over here"....(hi!).

I must prod the noodle into gear. How can I present my work simply, but with impact? How do I adequately communicate my love and energy for what I do? How should I show who I am, what inspires me, what I do best, what I can do for you (oh gracious art director, editor, publisher...). So many questions, too many answers, so lets start where I always start: tea and travel. The Cutty Sark; human form (but don't rely on my sea legs)!

When one is a Worrywart.

2010-03-07T06:38:00.000-08:00

Life is not without it's concerns. Did I fill out all 5 million forms correctly? Will my prayers be answered? Is it too soon to start stockpiling English tea?

Once upon a Christmas time, my Auntie gave me a little box of Guatemalan Worry Dolls. I thought they were marvelous. I'd sleep with them under my pillow and Mum would laugh when she'd find them in the washing, on the stairs, in the garden. 'How did this get inside Dad's shoe?!' etc.

Tonight I'll put my favourite doll inside my pillow case. The girl wearing the pink onesy. I know she'll help me out. In a month, I sincerely hope I will feel silly and be able to laugh. In a month I hope to be with Forrest and our little puppy, missing my family, but becoming a new one.

Illustration Freitags: Perspective (or lack of it...)

2010-02-28T03:57:00.000-08:00

The noticed absence of something proves it's existence, right? I think this applies for perspective where Las Vegas is concerned. A loss of perspective. Love that place, hate that place.Yes, Pina Colada, NO frozen Margherita. Cowboys and Pirates and too much skin and don't give me that card please and Celine Dion and sweets and gifts when we get upgraded to VIP by accident. I lost my perspective and wanted it back, but I'd probably do it again.

Where are you, Spring? (I'm cold...)

2010-02-26T03:15:00.000-08:00

Flowers are not my usual choice of illustrated subject. For some reason I find them intimidating. Still, I looked fear in the face and lassoed afew minutes to draw this 'Gladiolus' for my Opa. They are his favourite. In his younger days Opa was a magnificent gardener, with green-fingered abilities that makes me hope it's a late-developing gene that I will have inherited. I'm still waiting for it to reveal itself!

Opa won county awards for his gardens, and I won the family award for most unsuccessful attempt to grow a sunflower when I was about 10. Let's just say, there is room for improvement...

1000 words?

2010-02-21T08:32:00.000-08:00

I think I could draw a typewriter every single day, and find life enjoyable for ever more. Are they not beautiful? Still, I said something similar after my first pancake on Tuesday, and by the time I'd struggled through my third, I was losing the will to live.

I still like pancakes. I never learn my lessons. Tomorrow I will draw another typewriter, perhaps.

This little piggy (stayed at home?)

2010-02-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

A 'Berkshire Pig' commission I completed recently. An especially hairy breed, yet unfathomably appealing.

Amid talks of Dachshunds, and Labradors and German Shepherds and Coldstone cakes (an inexplicable aside), I have been thinking about piglets. Call me misguided, but I'd really like one. I was raised on 'The Sheep-Pig' and 'Charlottes Web', so truly I am blameless in my preferences.

I should talk to the boy about this. I think I'm on to something.

I hadn't realised farmyard animals had become such a theme, but browsing through my portfolio....uh-oh, is that a pattern I see emerging?!

City, city, countryside.

2010-02-02T12:19:00.000-08:00

Those country days made everything okay again. More than ok.

After fleeting visits to London and Liverpool for events dreaded and sad (respectively), we rocked up at that rural sanctuary known as my Auntie Mary's house. From then on it was all about freezing canal walks, coal fires, my Auntie's legendary cooking. Chestnut, mushroom and stilton pie that could have made me weep.

The mercury did it's winter thing and temps were such that the canal froze over. The mallards were looking especially pretty. Oh I cannot get enough of those glossy green heads. No, indeed. The dear dog tried so hard to behave herself. But squirrels and ducks, I mean what can you do? The swan squawked at her. I'm not sure who won afterall.

Back to where the colour lives! It's brighter here.

2010-01-25T07:54:00.000-08:00

I've been beavering away on my current illustration job for what seems like many moons now (...it is actually about two and a half months). I remember the first day I was given the brief whereupon emotions and events proceeded in this manner:

Excitement! Terror. Research. Bad drawing. Horror. A cup of tea. More drawing. Doubt. Better Drawing. Relief. A glass of wine. Storyboards. Characters. Dummy books. Exhaustion.

Exhaustion was yesterday, which brings me to the present moment. I am on the precipice of starting the colour images. This is brilliant- it is what I live for. It may be my holy grail.

As I await the 'go ahead' from the client, I thought I'd give my marker pens a stroll around the page (and check I remember how to use them....). A selection of my much-loved art materials and of course; a cup of tea :)

Chin up, feet up.

2010-01-21T13:31:00.000-08:00

My heart aches. That much is true. But at least I haven't had hip replacement surgery recently...so a big get well soon to my future Father-in-law. I've never seen him sit still for more than two seconds. He is probably entering a one-legged race (whilst eating a morning bun) at this very moment. And aren't crutches brilliant? Oh, fun! So, feel better, Eb. HOP, two three four xx

I Heart My Hat.

2010-01-12T09:16:00.000-08:00

Firstly, belated thanks to those who congratulated me on my newly minted engagement to the boy. Forrest also perused your comments and was equally heart-warmed. You are really too kind. Thank you :)

So I am not the first to say it, but we have snow here in England. Oh yes. It's the kind that is unheard of- that is blanket-like and powdery rather than slushy and sleety and grey and muddy. It is amazing and I am amazed. The dog thinks it's heaven, and her attitude is contagious. I have never been more grateful for my hat.

I hear it is everywhere- a worldwide settling of snow. I hope you are all enjoying it as much as I am!

Happy, sad, happier in 2010.

2010-01-03T09:40:00.000-08:00

it is a sad day indeed. The day when somebody reminds you that all good things must come to an end, and you tell them 'go away please' because you don't want to hear it. I tried to make myself feel better, but it turned out that eating half a Christmas pudding was perhaps not the answer.

This morning, I peeled myself out of bed at 2.30am, showered with my eyes closed, dressed in the dark, scowled at my coffee and cursed the fact that it was time to take my better half to Heathrow airport (next time dear heart- book a later flight...).

Events have progressed to the point where I find myself engaged, to a very delightful individual indeed. Betrothed, committed, due to be married. As badly as I accepted Forrest's proposal -I am emotionally ill equipped for such moments- I am quietly overjoyed at the prospect of my future with the boy. He's the type to get excited about puppies, and tickle my hair, and tolerate tofu because I'm vegetarian and plant rose bushes and play football and hold hands and make coffee and work hard and take all my crap with a smile on his face. He also has a sticking out ear which is very, very endearing.

Now he is on a flight to Atlanta while I keep one eye on the post and hope to be not so far behind him.

2010, how bold you are. 3rd January, how sad you are.

Three years ago- shortly after I first met Forrest- he 'proposed' to me in Germany with this plastic ring from a Christmas cracker. Guess I should have known how this would eventually end!

Christmas, in a nutshell.

2009-12-31T05:41:00.000-08:00

No Christmas is complete without a last minute helping of work and on Sunday I had a few illustrations printed in the San Francisco Chronicle. It was for their 2009 Geography Quiz, and never have I learned so much from a project. Did you know that duelling is legal in Paraguay? You must be a blood donor however. That is a fact. It was a wonderfully pleasant assignment, if a little hectic with the many many family members whose arrival for the holidays coincided with the deadline!

It certainly has been a whirlwind. This Christmas has been a whole new experience indeed, and as if to confirm that conclusion the weather has put it's own uncommon twist on things. Day upon day of ice and hail and sleet and whistling winds turned the usually mild village of Saundersfoot into a giant ice rink. The hills were like glaciers and we've all been shuffling around like penguins in a bid not to hit the deck every few steps.

There was also sunshine- fleeting but magnificent. We enjoyed it while it lasted.

Now 2010 is peeking across the last stretch of day, and I can't even believe it. Happy New Year everybody- I hope yours is a fun-filled and happy one!

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree....

2009-12-10T05:20:00.000-08:00

Fully aware that this could be my last Christmas in England for a little while, I embarked on the task of decorating this year with extra enthusiasm. Anybody who is familiar with my usual levels of Christmas-time exuberance would realise this is no small achievement.

The tree is a fragrant individual with much character. I am nothing if not infatuated with it. My goodness, it smells like heaven.

There have also been frosty walks and paper bags of roasted chestnuts and songs of the season creeping merrily into my consciousness. Looking around at the lights and the shops and the general abundance of gingerbread...it seems everybody is fully submerged in the magic of Christmas. Penelope Dullaghan says it better than I do, right here.

The German ornaments are out in force, complete with the customary tug of nostalgia for all of my Christmases past. Next year I should be back in the States, starting new traditions of my own with the Boy Pickle, but for now it's hard not to revel in the familiar traditions of my own family Christmas.

In my little corner of the world (things are rather exciting).

2009-12-01T05:22:00.000-08:00

A big new illustration job has compelled me to rearrange my work space/ sleeping quarters. Now everything is backwards and I've tried to climb out of the wrong side of the bed twice in a row. But finally my desk is under the window, and that's worth walking into the wall and stubbing my toes for.

I write this with a smile on my face as I think about sensible things like hand lettering, and characters and layouts and pacing and deadlines. The smile transforms into a look of terror when I think about the deadline, actually.

So armed with a brand new teacup (thanks Kate) and a pen collection that seems to be breeding, it's time for action stations. I'm ready. Infact, I've already begun....

the Middle Lands.

2009-11-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

Firstly, a thank you to those of you who left such generous comments on my previous post. What a treat it was!

Now, I've been away a little while, spending the last two weeks in't North, like.

It was a fortnight of firsts, up there in middle England.

The first frost of the season.

The first firework display (followed by many millions more).

The first flu of about a decade (and hopefully the last for the next decade...)

The first inclination felt in a while to learn a foreign language. Oui. Le sigh.

So, on the scent of work, I moseyed on up to the place where my Auntie Mary calls home. My Auntie is one of those clever people who knows lots of long words and amusing anecdotes and lives at a leisurely pace.

She resides in the heart of the 'black country'- named for the coal mining (etc) of yore. Apparently it's imported from Poland these days. Oh well, I'm sure it does favours for the air quality...

The houses are visions from rural fairytales- cobbled bricks and smoking chimneys, squeezed between fields full of horses. In my head I can hear Forrest saying 'Orses', in his 'English' accent inadvisably based on Black Adder and Monty Python. 'Ooorses!'. Yes dear.

By the end of my stay, it was hard to bid farewell to all the good wine, open fires, paint pots and Bella the pigmy goat. Still, with my lonely desk a-calling, and Ellie the dog was wondering where her mid-morning cups of tea had gone....it was time to come on home. Hello again!

When work feels more like play (it's a good day!).

2009-11-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

In a bit of a departure from my usual marker-pen adventures, most of my week has been spent painting the adorable 'Smudge'. Talk about therapy. How relaxing it has been to do away with my usually fidgety self, and surrender to the organic nature of creating a painting that comes to life only after stage upon stage and multiple layers of paint. Who knew I had so much patience?

I've spent so many hours in it's company that I've reached the point of zero objectivity, with equal levels of love and dissatisfaction. Give me a year and I might have developed a useful opinion on it. Until then as with all commissions, I just have to cross my fingers and hope it is well received!

Eye of newt, and toe of frog. (Happy Halloween!)

2009-10-31T15:41:00.000-07:00

The pumpkin is a splendid one this year. After being elbow-deep in acrylic paints all week, I couldn't resist being reunited with the marker pens for a quick drawing before the carving began. Toasted pumpkin seeds are a welcome bonus. Yes please.

Time is dissolving at an unimaginable rate. It's November in just a day? mmm I've always liked November. I suppose everybody harbours a fondness for their birthday month, until the passing of another year seems more horrifying than a thing to celebrate. Oh well, 25 isn't something to feel too worried about I spose. I just regard it with a similar level of distaste as I would, say.. the spongy part of a jaffa cake, that is; viewed with mild concern...

I'm currently preoccupied with pumpkins and chestnuts and the treasures of Autumn. Beach walks with Ellie, papery leaves fluttering through the forest and rediscovering a long lost fondness for honest-to-God painting. Brushes and everything...

More on the painting shortly though. First things first, Ellie is giving me a meaningful look suggesting I'd better find some boots that are made for walking (Wales = wellies). Alrighty then.

Brain Pain.

2009-10-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

My head is somewhere beyond overload with putting together promo booklets. I've printed a million little pages, and layed them out in 5000 permutations and combinations. I've rearranged them 500 more times. I've stuck them on my wall, I've arranged them on the floor, Ellie the dog has walked on them (twice) and I've even dreamt about them. The unfortunate thing is- I'm more confused than I was when I started. I'm going for a 12-page mini-booklet- which seemed like such an easy task when I first thunk it. Not so.

As if I didn't have more than enough pictures already I keep thinking of better, cleverer, irresistible (and totally unnecessary) ideas. Illustrations that would help so much (not in the least). Perfectionism is such a saboteur...

Plus, I need a more objective critic than the biased and uncooperative duo that is my left and right brain. Always arguing, y'know?

I've also drawn a Chinese dragon for a little side project I'm working on. At this point it can go right ahead and swallow me up....

Rainy days and Fun days.

2009-10-23T06:18:00.000-07:00

When I was out running this morning, a firework whizzed over my head. It was 6.30am and very dark and I wondered to myself about the unlikeliness of seeing a firework right then. I guess it's coming around to that time of year again. How lovely :)

Before that, it has been a grey sort of week, making it more essential to get outside, even whilst it feels conversely less enticing to do so. Daylight appears rationed so I'm doing my best to get a share. I have an unfortunate knack for getting caught in rainstorms, streaking through town with my hair a slick wet helmet around my ears... Still, nothing beats returning home from such an outing for a steaming cup of tea and a cuddle with the dog. Oh, she's a cuddler :)

Mostly I adore the chilly days, but I become the Human Temperature Project when Autumn really sets in. I'm a changeable mixture of hot cheeks, cold nose, chattering teeth, hot ears, cold ears, wrapped up and toasty with knee-length socks and woolly boots, or shivering in a poorly planned nightshirt.

My fingers are a law unto themselves; white and uncooperative- freezing even if the rest of me is warm. Does anybody else have this problem in the cold weather? It plagues me annually, with my fingertips becoming swollen and tender- a particular nuisance for drawing. Happily, I have the best, most thoughtful Mum of them all. She returned home yesterday beaming- laden with this fleecy monk-like cape (er, a 'snug rug'?) and vowing that I will never be cold again. Looking at the thing, I will never be fashionable again, either. But if it's a trade for warmth, then I'll give up the style points!

In conclusion to gloomy-weather rant, and I'll finish with some cheerier thoughts- and a celebration of the hour or so that the sun took centre stage a few days ago. Our little family jumped for joy and dashed out for some dog-walking. Sensing our enthusiasm, Ellie took off for some mischief, like she really really meant it. Guess she knows when she can get away with it. At least there was no Badger Poop Rolling (her sport of choice), but she was under a fence and halfway across the field before we could blink. Squirrel?

Sometimes, nothing provides more happiness than the dog. Heres a toast to my future dachshund who- if he takes after me will have to be clothed in tights and capes of his very own next Winter.

Perhaps though, he will take after Cousin Arnold- a whirlwind of activity who hops through the snow drifts of Tahoe like he thinks he's a husky-dog. That's my boy. Here's hoping :)

YES, I can see my breath! (I love you, cold mornings)

2009-10-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

Along with the elaborate task of compiling promo pieces, I have completed a new commission. Briefs don't get any better than 'Please draw a Highland Cow'. And I shall, with pleasure! Isn't it fitting for the season? It is the bovine embodiment of Autumn for me :)

Oh, and it's a noteworthy day on my Countdown Calendar, with exactly two months until I am reunited with Monsieur Pickle (he isn't French) for Christmas. Since those two weeks are sure to fly by once they finally arrive, I don't want to build up to it too much. Oh well, today I'll allow myself just a small helping of excitement. I realise I am only person on the planet already looking forward to Christmas. But I've got to go against public opinion this year. December being is eagerly awaited in this little corner of England!

That Friday feeling...

2009-10-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Had I known Blogger would be such an easy transition from my cumbersome Doodle Diary of yore, I certainly would have arrived here a long time ago. Better late than never, so the old saying has it. True enough, I suppose.

It's something like a relief to have so much to do at the moment. I stave off boredom with the stab of a pencil, and I'm fully immersed in that time consuming task of getting together some promo material to send off to various corners of the publishing industry. I'm really only at the beginning, and will be tucked neatly behind my desk for a good while longer. The business of creating cards and booklets always leaves my mind in a bit of a spin,when I find myself unable to make a decision and stick with it. I've printed out mock-up postcards, argued with fonts and type, perused 5000 varieties of glossy cardstock and drawn a multitude of tea cups. There is a plan of sorts, but a day spent drawing teacups and cupcakes,feels difficult to justify, somehow. Is this really 'work'?It seems too much like fun...and I can't even complain about the calories. Life feels good today.

New Beginnings.

2009-10-13T06:33:00.000-07:00

As a first ever post, I should probably get straight to the point. I am an illustrator. A compulsive drawer and documenter of all things that spark my interest.Those who know my website -www.louiseegger.com- may be familiar with my 'doodle diary' (an illustrated daily diary- as the name suggests) which I battled on with for a year and a half before finding myself in html purgatory, unable to keep up with the daily demand of my time, yet too attached to the process to discard it altogether. Life- as it will- had it's own ideas for making a point, and a few weeks ago things came crashing down around my ears like a message from above; positively screaming at me to get my priorities sorted out. It has been the necessary catalyst for me to wave a fond farewell to the doodle diary, and stumble blindly into Blogger; where I shall continue to document my days with similar enthusiasm- but by lazier means. Perfect!

Life, as I was saying, set off in temporary a tailspin a few weeks ago, when all my plans fell on their head. Theoretically I should now be living in the United States of Awesomeness with my better half (Mr. Pickle) and ideally a Miniature Dachshund. Occasionally however, life throws you lemons or- in my case- presents you with obnoxious immigration officials at Atlanta airport. Sorry, I'm a little bitter. But never fear, it was high time for a shake-up of my intentions anyway. Now, with my sparkly new perspective on life, I will be enjoying the next eight(ish) months in my beloved SW-England hometown while I throw myself into furthering my career in Illustration; determined to make something of this new and unexpected circumstance.

Everybody goes through things and when in a years time I find myself setting up home with Forrest and the aforementioned puppy, I know it will all be worth it. For now, I shall relish the extra time with my family and my friends, and goodness knows there are worse places to find oneself than small-town England. It's just the first page of a book I wasn't expecting to open. New beginnings...it won't be a bad thing.

Speaking of new beginnings, the Horse Chestnut tree is all about it. Conkers are falling everywhere, and it's quite lovely. I feel like a magpie, as I study my collection. They are ever so shiny!