Drawing from the Well

For Trisha-dora

2007-01-02T14:01:00.000-07:00

For Trisha-dora
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Testing My Resolve

2006-09-05T20:24:00.000-06:00

Testing My Resolve
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This drawing makes me think of how I was feeling this morning. Not because this is the plan for my attitude today but rather because today Tanner has tested every boundary and is forcing me stick to my guns. I'm feeling somewhat proud of the fact that I haven't pinched off his little head. That is what it feels like he deserves today but I have been able to squelch my anger and just hold the line. It's a good thing I was warned that there would be days like this or I would be sending him somewhere else to be educated. Homeschooling is not for the faint at heart, at least not in the beginning working with a strong willed kid who's motto is, "I dare you to teach me!" Grrrrr....

Checking in

2006-08-31T21:07:00.000-06:00

Checking in
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I'm feeling like a school marm! Well actually not really that "marmish" but I am feeling like a teacher to Tanner. We've been doing school since the 22nd of August. I started early and with a very light schedule so I could sort of "feel" my way along and also to keep things on a very positive note for Tanner. So far so good. We've had some ups and downs which I expected, one VERY bad day and the rest have been pretty darn good for us. I am doing much reading in my spare time and learning so much. I'm actually enjoying myself and that surprises me.

I have not been doing art at all but hope to draw just a bit tonight. I do plan on doing some art next week when Tanner and I do a paper Mache project; we are going to make insects since we are doing a unit study of the critters. I'm looking forward to it and I hope he is. Oh, I just realized I can show our work here, what fun!

My other news is that Holly and Elton have left Chicago and moved back in with us. It's really sad in many ways because the reason for the move is Holly's poor health. They drove back without a clue that they would move home a month later but as soon as they got back to Chicago Holly got sicker and there were a few other issues too, like not being able to find a place to live near everything they needed and within their very tight budget. Holly had given it everything she had and was broken hearted to give up her scholarship and Elton gave up being the head of his class at Shimer. They are still adjusting since they've only been home a week. Elton did get his old job back here in Boise so that is at least a bright spot. They are researching schools on the west coast now and hope that they can start at new schools in January.

Hope all my LJ friends are doing great, I've not had time to read journals for a while so I feel very much out of touch.

Home alone

2006-08-08T20:41:00.000-06:00

Home alone
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Usually I go to a group on Tuesday evenings but it was canceled tonight. Instead I stayed home and made a birthday cake for Tanner. Tanner will be 10 years old tomorrow. We will be taking a couple of friends to the wonderful water park, Roaring Springs, on Friday to celebrate. I have to say I'm very excited to go myself because this summer I'm not fat and I have lots of energy so I can go on all the slides and stuff, whoopeee!

Tomorrow night Tanner and I are going to break his new fort in by spending the night out there. It's not actually quite finished but it's enclosed and windows and door are in it's far enough along for us to enjoy. We'll be reading some scary stories and eating some fun snacks and hopefully we'll be going to sleep too. I'm not sure how I feel about sleeping out there, I suppose it will depend on how well the air mattresses can keep my old bones off the floor.

Out on the Canoe

2006-08-08T20:40:00.000-06:00

Out on the Canoe
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This morning Paul and I took the canoe out again. We had such a nice time, it's so quiet and peaceful on the water in a canoe. We didn't have Tanner with us so there was plenty of time that we could hear birds singing and in the case of blue herons, croaking. I think it's pretty good exercise too, at least for the upper body. It's only about 20 minutes from our house to the reservoir so we don't have to go far to get a little break. We really want to take some trips to more interesting places but haven't gotten a chance yet, thankfully we live in Idaho and there are many interesting places to check into though. (By the way, this is my "outdoorsy" look... ah naturale!) It's nice to do things that don't require "getting fixed up".

Out on the Canoe

2006-08-08T20:37:00.000-06:00

Out on the Canoe
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Home alone

2006-08-08T20:25:00.000-06:00

Home alone
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Summer Sicky

2006-08-02T09:21:00.000-06:00

Summer Sicky
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I missed going to the Y both yesterday and today, bah! I've got one of those nasty summer colds so I'm laying low today until time to go bowling just after lunch.

I've been getting things ready to start school but not moving very fast. Got some curriculum ordered, got some research done, started preparing a place in my studio for the actual classroom. There are some really exciting things about homeschooling that get us looking forward to it. For one, we can take field trips and stuff while teaching that give us opportunities to see stuff that we would normally miss during the school year. More time to pursue what we really are interested in! I think Tanner is starting to get into it also!

As far as art is concerned, I am going to keep trying to do drawings on a regular basis but I am going to try and do them with the written word too so it will be a form of journaling in a more deliberate way. We'll see how it goes. I've been journaling without drawing and it's been taking so much time that it's frustrating. I want it to be accomplishing more, to give me a chance to work on creative writing and drawing at the same time. Dunno if it will be possible but that's the goal. I think it will be interesting to document what we are going through as we start out on this new adventure of home schooling.

Life's Ups and Downs

2006-07-28T16:42:00.000-06:00

Life's Ups and Downs
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Reno on the day he got neutered. This is my favorite picture of him because of the funny look on his face, it looks like he knew what was coming doesn't it?

This morning Paul and Tanner and I took the canoe and had a wonderful time paddling around in the reservoir. We went further than we had gone before and when we got to the murky, slow moving part where there is lots of plant life in the water we saw Blue Herons and Plovers, Eastern King birds and heard frogs and stuff! It was great. We also found a couple of sand bars where it was fun to swim (where the water was clean and nice). We were out for 2 hours and my shoulders and abs can sure tell! We had a wonderful time though and look forward to going again.

Daniel got here just a little while after we got home and the day went from Up to Down real fast. His beautiful Australian Shepherd, Reno, had to be put down today. It is so heart breaking, my eyes still feel sandy from crying.
Reno was so smart and a perfect gentledog with us but he was very protective in Dan's pick-up. He has bit several people who reached in to pet him. Gah, we've tried everything and in fact had even given him to Dan's ex-girlfriend because it seemed a better home for him where he'd not need to guard. Unfortunately he got out of her truck one day at a rodeo and bit a woman. So, Dan took him back and has been trying to find a solution that didn't include the dog being put down. He tried a muzzle for when Reno was in back of the truck but the dog just hated it and spent all his time trying to get it off. Last week while the muzzle was off a girl reached into the pick-up to pet the dog and he bit her. He's never done huge damage but that's beside the point, he's a liability and this time he had to be put in quarantine for a few days which was very hard on him. It's so incredibly difficult to have to come to this. We all cried so hard, especially Daniel and Tanner. We had a funeral and buried him where we can keep his memory right here on our property.

I've spent some time arranging a cd of his best pictures to keep his memory alive.

It's not even hot here in Idaho..

2006-07-24T19:35:00.000-06:00

It's not even hot here in Idaho..
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Compared to Central California that is! Just talked to Holly and she said it's 114 degrees today! Geesh, it only got to 103 here today so I have nothing to complain about. Well, I could complain that I miss Holly, didn't like it that she wasn't there with me in the pool today.....

Got to spend a good part of the day at home working on homeschool stuff! It's so nice to be home and it's real nice and cool right here in front of my computer.

Tomorrow morning Paul and I are going to get up early and drive to a local reservoir to go out on a canoe. We tried it out while in McCall and enjoyed the experience so we are going to see what it's like early in the morning. I'm thinking it's going to be fun to do a different kind of exercise for a change. I'll take my camera so I can take a few photos. Hmmm, have to figure out a way that I won't get wet... I'll bet they sell waterproof cases for just such a purpose.

Nothing else newsworthy, just moving along in life and trying to continue with the simplicity plan. (real slow in progress)

Dog Days?

2006-07-22T16:47:00.000-06:00

Dog Days?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Oh my, it's so hot! It was about 103 degrees in the middle of the day and just going up, up, up! However, it's nice and cool in the house where I'm staying for the most part.

Life's been on full speed ahead as usual and doesn't show signs of letting up. Holly and Elton are getting ready to go which makes me sad and yet..... There is so much to do to get ready for homeschooling Tanner since I've not done it before. I want to learn all I can so I can make it as successful as possible. I make lists of things that need to be done and then as I do them (or before) I remember more things that need added to the list. I suppose that's how it is for everyone huh? One thing for sure, there is never a dull moment!

I've been gone running around a lot, with Holly and even just by myself so it's a big deal for me to be home all day today and get a few things done around here.

Well, just wanted to post a drawing after all this time, I only do about 1 a week or maybe less these days.

Summer's long days

2006-07-12T09:56:00.000-06:00

Summer's long days
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

The days of summer are so long! I feel like the days are never going to end and I get frustrated that my sitting and drawing time are almost non-existent. I suppose it would be great if I could sleep in but I'm not wired that way, I always wake up early and go to bed after 11pm. Here in Idaho it stays light until 10 pm in the middle of summer!

Today my friend and I will be taking our boys (both 10) bowling. I like to do this weekly and see if Tanner and I can improve.

Yesterday I got some stuff done but not nearly what I had planned, what's up with me anyway, I used to be so focused and I was like a tornado, maybe I just have different priorities now and I've not come to terms with it?

This summer I had a yard sale and while getting ready for it I ran across some journals that I had written when my kids were little. I had never gone back and read them since. Holly got really interested and so I started reading them to her and it's been really fun. Gosh, I'm so glad I recorded some of those memories and feelings from so long ago. It is amazing the details that one forgets if you don't write them down. It has also been really good for Holly to get inside my head when I was a young mother and wife with 2 little kids and one of them very ill and near death. I had also recorded some thoughts and feelings about long distance running at the time and that was pretty revealing about how out of balance I was concerning diet and exercise. I've not made it all the way through the five years or so that I journaled, we have that to look forward to. So, now I'm journaling again, I've got lots of things that I'm working on, the simplification of life, learning to practice some of the spiritual disciplines, parenting and teaching Tanner and on and on. I just need to learn to keep it short and concise so it doesn't take loads of time.

I'm off for a walk with my darling Paul and Tanner (who keeps up on his bike).

Yes, I'm still kickin'

2006-07-11T08:55:00.000-06:00

Yes, I'm still kickin'
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Hello to my LJ friends!

Since a few of you sweet gals have posted comments to check on me, I thought I'd just check in and say that yes, indeedy, I am fine. Life is just extremely busy (for all of us I'm sure) and summer has been fun but not a good time to be on the computer much. I have had Holly and Elton here for the summer, am getting ready to home school Tanner (which is a big undertaking), am still working out and have lost a total of 63 pounds (not trying to loose more), I look 10 years older now and that is difficult to adjust to but I'm trying, I'm not doing much art, just drawing a couple of drawings in my sketchbook a week and we've taken a wonderful weeks vacation here in Idaho.

The picture was taken last week on that vacation while we hiked and enjoyed a beautiful marsh called Lily Marsh in Ponderosa State Park. We had rented a condo right on Payette Lake in McCall and had a great time. The condo had a pool too so we were never without a nice way of relaxing. Tanner had the time of his life and our kids came up and spent part of the week there too, it was hard to come back home. I'll try and post some more images soon.

Right now I'm in a big hurry to get going to the "Y" but just wanted to let you know I'm still around:-D

Thanks so much for checking on me!

My favorite color is GREEN!

2006-05-22T13:19:00.000-06:00

My favorite color is GREEN!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

On Saturday Paul and I went to a memorial for a sweet lady who pasted away a month or so ago. The memorial was a brunch held at the Idaho Botanical Garden and it was just the most beautiful setting. There had been quite a storm the night before with lots of lightening and thunder and rain but it cleared off in the morning and left everything washed clean and sparkling. As we sat outside at round tables with crisp white tablecloths and large colorful bouquets the warblers kept up a steady song in the trees above, the sun shone but not too hot and flowers bloomed all around. This woman's friends and family got up in turns and spoke lovingly of what she had meant to them and paid tribute to a life well lived. It was one of the nicest memorials I had ever been to.

There was a pond just to the right of our table and this plant was growing there, isn't it beautiful! I just love the shades of green and the rain drops that clung to it.

Just wanted to share the beauty.

I'm still around...

2006-05-19T19:36:00.000-06:00

I'm still around...
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Yes, I'm still around but not on the computer for fun much these days. I've been working with Microsoft Money and that's been about all the computer time I get in.

Here is a little update on what's been going on here in Eagle, Idaho:

I've lost a total of 60 pounds and now trying to stabilize, it's been wonderful and I don't think I'll ever go back, my health, my energy level my self image and the whole works are all so much better off now. I'm still working out in the Deep Water Aerobics group 3 days a week and I walk with my dear Paul on at least one day, I'm very strong and can play baseball or whatever with Tanner any time I want now. If anyone needs encouragement then just ask, I can share loads of enthusiasm.

I'm excited that the whole family will be together this summer, my son had been gone for about 2 1/2 months but is now home and Holly and Elton will be home next week. We are all so excited, we feel like celebrating. I'd never been away from either of my kids that long before.

Paul, Tanner and Daniel are building a fort together, a nice sized place for Tanner that I'm sure he'll enjoy so much. It's such a neat project to see them working on and they are teaching Tanner some things about building as they go along. I'm going to be taking pictures of the progress so we will always have those memories saved to look back on.

I'm still working on the simplification process, it's very slow and sometimes feels impossible but I have made a little progress. We've now got a budget for the first time in 33 years which is a first huge step. Wow, was it ever an eye opener to take a long hard look at our spending habits, yikes! However, now we know where we are and what we need to do to make life more simple in that area. I've been cooking more at home, in fact, most nights now I'm serving dinner here; in the past we ate out about 5 nights a week so this is a significant change. I'm even starting to be a little creative with the meals like I used to be when my kids were little. Tanner keeps asking when we get to start eating dinner out again! I know it's really good for him that we are staying home and having meals around the family table though. I'm also planning a yard sale sometime in June, I want to get rid of lots of excess stuff that we don't need around here. De-cluttering in our physical world seems important to me and so does de-cluttering our inner worlds, I'm working on that too. I'm trying to spend a portion of each day in silence and solitude as a way to help that process along.

I so desperately want to learn to appreciate the little things in life, to stop and take time to notice the details. I also want to have conversations that have some depth instead of never speaking of anything besides superficial stuff. When I get old I want to look back at my life and say, "boy, I sure am glad that I spent my days in that way! I'm glad I took the time to sit down and read, to talk long and deep about those things I've found important, to be interested in what other people have to say, etc. I've gotten so tired racing along the top of the water and never diving into the depths.

I've got my little garden planted, it's just 2 8x8 beds but it's all I want or need. In one bed I've got tomatoes in as well as beets for my borscht, in the other are herbs and Zinnias. (I love having Zinnias to cut and bring in later in the summer.) This year instead of buying those little pony packs from the nursery I just planted seeds, everything is coming along really well too. On my deck I eliminated most of the pots that I usually plant and only saved 4 of the largest ones, they are all planted and I'm waiting for germination to take place.

This week was the last soccer practice and the very last games will be on Saturday morning, it's been a great season! Tanner is a good soccer player and for the most part the weather has been great so the season was really enjoyable. The team won all but one game so the boys are feeling really good about that!

Finally my drawing has dwindled to a trickle, I just seem to be unable to sit down long enough to draw in the evenings these days. For one thing the days are so long that we stay busy with other things until when we do sit down for an hour before bed, I don't feel inclined. I am still managing a drawing or two a week though. I feel pretty sure that as other things in life get in order I will be painting again, I just don't know when.

School gets out on June 7th and after that Tanner will be going with me to the YMCA most days and we will be bowling some too. I don't plan on lots of activities for him this summer, I think we will just let it be a laid back summer for the most part. We do plan to go camping for a week or so though, someplace where all of us can spend time just hanging out and don't have to think about phones or anything that is stressful. Not sure where but I'm looking for a cabin or something (true camping sounds stressful to me because I remember lots of preparations and clean up after in the past :-( ) We are skipping the trip to Canon Beach this year, it is really hard to even think about missing it but we are trying to save money as well as do something that the kids can participate in.

So, that's what's been up around my world, not very exciting reading but you know I'm ok without much excitement these days.

Howdy

2006-04-28T15:51:00.000-06:00

Howdy
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I'm glad it's Friday, are you? I guess the weeks seem so busy to me that I like the idea that there are no work outs on the weekend. I actually really enjoy staying in shape but today I'm tired and sore and just want to do something different.

I'm trying Arbonne skin care, since I've lost weight I really do look older in the face and when I sampled Arbonne products I was impressed but felt like I didn't want to spend a lot of money on skin care. Since then I've noticed the skin of several of my friends that looks remarkably better, only later finding out that they are using the products. So I've taken the plunge. It's worth a try in my opinion and if I decide it's not worth it then I won't buy more.

Tonight we are going to watch some really good team ropers for a while and tomorrow night we are going to watch the PBR (professional bull riders) so it's going to be a weekend with a western flare, maybe I'll need to dig out my old tight Wranglers and cowboy boots huh? There is also a soccer game tomorrow and the weather is supposed to be wonderful for it. So even though it's the weekend there won't be much sitting around, we stay so busy. Still, it's a different kind of busy than the schedule we keep during the week.

I've still been drawing a few days a week and enjoying it, just not daily like I used to. I feel like if I gave up my drawing I would be very unhappy. I use my drawing for therapy and sort of treat my Moleskin like it's a journal, sometimes I use words but more often I express my emotions or an idea in there. I'm pretty sure that in years to come I will be able to look back at the Moleskins and remember what it was that gave the inspiration for certain drawings. There are plenty of drawings that are just fun, colorful bit's of art/playing too, but many these last days have been art therapy recording in visual code what is going on in my heart or emotions or what is causing it. It's a wonderful thing to be able to record in visual form to look back on later. Today's drawing, by the way, was just a fun drawing with the idea of embroidery on jeans in the back of my mind. I'll bet you can always tell the ones that have a deeper meaning.

Sure hope all my LJ friends have a great spring weekend!

Posting for a change

2006-04-24T13:21:00.000-06:00

Posting for a change
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I feel like you may be wondering about this drawing. Remember when I said over a month ago that something had happened and it was awful? Well, this drawing was done right at that time. It was an icky deal then and we still have stress over the ongoing trauma but things are getting better. At any rate, without disclosing the nature of the problem, this drawing is about some of the feelings we have experienced. I do like the drawing, I hadn't looked at it for a month or so and now when I do I really like it.

(Actually the problem was not nearly so serious and shouldn't have caused nearly so much stress, it was the way it was handled that caused the stress and shame to us.)

Today my deep water class at the Y had a luncheon at the instructors home. It was so nice to have time to visit a bit and get to know some of the women a little better. And it's such a beautiful spring day! Our valley is green and flowering and wonderful today. It's just in the 60's but when it's sunny and no wind the temp seems just perfect to me!

Still thinking about the simplification process these days. I've made a wee bit of progress but the more I think about it the more I realize that it's not going to be easy to render life down to the basics and learn to be content with that. Our culture is such a do more, have more culture that simplifying will go against the tide. Still, I am feeling like it is absolutely necessary for my mental and emotional health. So far I've gotten our bills set up to pay on-line and I've been reigning myself in to be home more. I think the biggest thing so far has been a shift in attitude and the decision to make changes. It's wonderful that Paul is right on the same page with me in agreeing that this is necessary.

Popping my head in...

2006-04-18T08:42:00.000-06:00

Popping my head in...
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Ah, my life is just full of things to do, constantly there are too many things to do. I miss keeping up with LJ and "cyber" friends but I know I need to keep my nose to the grindstone and make progress in the "here and now".

Yesterday I missed my work out at the Y so today I am determined to get there and spend my hour in the pool. I feel frustrated when there are interruptions but sometimes it's unavoidable. Yesterday it was a problem with my computer that required that I take care of it immediately.

Today I plan on coming right home and getting to work on our financial stuff, that's what I'm trying to focus on right now as part of my simplification project. The progress is very slow but at least it's progress. I have to learn as I go. This evening we have the little guy's soccer practice, I sure hope it stays sunny and nice, that makes it so pleasant to be out at practice.

I've been drawing most evenings but I only finish a drawing every second or third day, the time to sit down on work on it is just too short these days. Still, I'm glad that I can keep up this small amount of drawing which keeps me going. So, I'll post more drawings in the near future!

Long time no post

2006-04-14T13:48:00.000-06:00

Long time no post
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This drawing is from way back on Feb. 18th which was of course my son Daniel's birthday. He doesn't look like this, he's actually tall and slim and has the mustache and is a cowboy but this drawing makes him look dorky which he isn't. (Well, in my opinion which may be a tad biased!)

I've been super busy with all kinds of stuff including tax preparations, soccer practice, soccer games, life, life and more life. And it seems to never end. Now I'm finally getting started on the simplification process that I spoke of what seems to be a long time ago. I know it will take a while but I'm up for it.

Spring has sprung in earnest here in Idaho and it's been beautiful in all those blossom popping, green grass growing, puffy clouds racing across the sky sort of ways, it's so energizing I think. Today it's sort of cloudy but warm and dry which I hope holds for the Easter weekend.

I don't have time to write more at this point but I'll be back soon I hope! If I don't get a chance to say it later then please let me say now that I hope you all have a wonderful and blessed Easter!

Chit Chat and thoughts

2006-04-04T18:35:00.000-06:00

Chit Chat and thoughts
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I'm just waiting to go to a group that I go to every Tuesday night so I thought I'd just post a drawing and say hi.

I finally got back in the pool today in spite of a bit of a sore throat, so far I'm no worse for the wear and I was feeling anxious to get back to it.

It's been raining like mad around here and Tanner's soccer practice was canceled because of it, sure hope it's not raining on Saturday morning when there is a game.

From what I understand it is the effects of La Ninja that we are experiencing. We have been dealing with drought conditions here in the high desert of Idaho for a number of years so at least the rain is a relief from that. It is such a frustration though, we're not used to it hindering our activities.

Part of our roof was blown off twice in the last week in high winds and rain storm, luckily we had it repaired quickly. Also I got my windows washed yesterday and am real glad the guy and I decided not to do the outside ones until there is a better window for dry weather. It is so nice to have both windows and blinds clean though, it makes me feel better anyway.

I've been drawing regularly since we got back from California, some strange faces appeared in my sketchbook while Paul, Tanner and I listened to The Goblet of Fire on CD this last weekend. I wasn't really trying to draw anything in particular and yet I guess faces are something that I do without giving it much thought. I suppose those who look at my journal know that though, don't you? My drawings are still the only art that I'm turning out these days and that makes me a bit sad. However, I have been doing some reading and concentrating on other things which I feel are vital at this time, I know I'll get back to drawing and painting in earnest when other things in life are in order.

I'm interested in simplifying our lives. Are any of you into doing that? I really don't know what all it will take but I know that it's a key to our lives being more meaningful than just living by the tyranny of the urgent. I've been told that setting up as many bills as possible to pay on line is a huge help, anybody know for sure? From what I understand it takes a huge commitment at first to get things in order and then it gets easier to work through the simplifying process. It seems like there are so many commitments and obligations in life that it will take a long time but you know, when I get old I want to look back and be glad about how I lived and what I spent my time on and right now I can't say that I'm where I need to be. I think both Paul and I are guilty of just shooting from the hip and going through the paces, we have plenty to be thankful for and to enjoy but we don't take the time to give it much thought. We've got 9 more years until Tanner is 18, then I'll be 60 and Paul will be 68, we want to be ready for that time and not be on the gerbil wheel still. We are committed to raising Tanner to the best of our ability but lots of the changes we want to make will be healthier for Tanner also, different values and time management to name two. So when I say I'm not doing much art you understand that it's because I'm clearing the way to do more art later. (I don't intend to wait until Tanner is raised, just need to get things in order now.) I know this will be an ongoing process and will be like swimming up stream in many ways, it will take self discipline and courage but I think it will be worth it. Like I say, not sure what it will actually look like but I know it won't look like our lives currently look.

Whew, well, I guess I'd better get moving, it's almost time to go to my group and it's something I really enjoy. Tanner is going with me lately because it's not much fun for him to go to roping practice with Paul mid week. The lady who has the group in her house actually includes a little lesson for the kids who come and Tanner just loves it.

Another Bird!

2006-04-03T10:30:00.000-06:00

Another Bird!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Good Morning!

Finally another bird drawing, I think this one would look great on a pair of jeans but sadly I've not been able to get to doing another one of those for quite some time.

Tanner trotted off to school happy to be back to the old routine in spite of having a nice spring break. I'm pretty happy to be back to that routine too. I can't believe it's not that long until school will be out for summer vacation, eep.

I'm feeling a bit under the weather, and very frustrated about it I must say. The main reason for being upset is that I am missing my workout in the pool. Drat! Hopefully tomorrow I'll feel up to it. Besides that all is boring with nothing to report besides trying to get life in order on the homefront. I should have pruned roses 2 weeks ago, need to be outside doing stuff and inside doing stuff. Oh well, in time I'll get to it all right? Ha!

Hope you all are having a good start to your week!

An image from Valentine's Day

2006-04-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

An image from Valentine's Day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is a valentine drawing I did for Tanner. His nickname is Sniggler.

We had a wonderful morning this morning. We slept in which is rare and was especially pleasant since it was raining. When we got up we decided to go to town and have a bagel at our favorite bagel bakery, all three of us love to go there. Then since it was raining we decided to do our walking in the mall, we hadn't done that in years and it was fun. We ended our little outing with a piece of See's candy each and then came home. Now Tanner is at a friends, Paul has gone to work and I have some errands to do.

I've got to run but hope to come back later!

I'm back

2006-03-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

I'm back
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

These are peach blossoms, pretty huh?

Just got back last night, it's so nice to be home again! We did have a nice time though. California is so beautiful this time of year, the grass it tall and green, there are things blooming everywhere and the sky was full of fluffy clouds most of the time while we were there. It was a family visit and so we didn't do a lot of sightseeing, heck we used to live there so we don't need to. We did go to a beautiful winery in a small town called Murphy's though and that was fun.

Paul's mom is almost 86 years old but she is amazing! She wanted to go shopping and she was like the ever-ready bunny, she doesn't seem to tire when she's shopping. I was happy that her and I got a couple of days to goof off together. When we go to visit the folks we always eat breakfast just around the corner from their house in the this little cafe. It is one of those little local places where everyone knows each other and most of them have been around there for many, many years. I find it so interesting to see the dynamics of that kind of meeting place, it would be interesting to know all the stories of the peoples lives that have been eating at that place all these years. We love going there and seeing who shows up, hopping tables to say hello to old friends and hearing the latest gossip. One couple who have been very close friends of Paul's family since he was a child eat there every day at noon. When I first met them they were about my age and very vibrant and fun loving, now they are in their eighties, she can no longer speak and has some mental problems he's pretty slow and stiff, they shuffle in and enjoy the comfort of familiarity along with their meals. I love that!

There are so many memories there too, I started going there when Paul and I first got married in 1973, (it was owned by someone else back then) at the time I thought it was kind of "hickish" and old fashioned. (I was all of 19 years old) Now I think it's just wonderful that the place has been in existence for so long. When Paul's sister, Rita, was murdered 4 years ago that same cafe where she had spent plenty of time over the years and everyone knew her, was a place where the locals met to discuss what had happened and try to figure it out, where lot's of rumors about what had happened were passed along and where lots of the locals comforted the family with tears and sweet stories and memories of Rita. Rita had been going there for most of her life and all of the kids in our family have been going there since they were born, we have pictures of the family in that place from years past. Funny how you come to appreciate things more and more over the years. I guess that is one of my favorite things about visiting the small town of Waterford, having breakfast at Cathy and Carol's Coffee Shop.

So now that we are home I'm faced with so many things that need done, and today I'm just not getting with it. Oh well, I guess I'm making the re-adjustment to getting back in the groove.

Goodbye for a Week

2006-03-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

Goodbye for a Week
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I just haven't had time to get on the computer much and that is why I've been missing for the most part and not posting anything.

Been helping in Tanner's class and various stuff that would be boring to list, let's just say really busy. We are leaving in the morning to go to see Paul's family in California. Tanner is very excited and lugged out a bag of toys and stuff that he wants to bring with us before he even got dressed this morning. It will make spring break more fun for him to get to go on a trip.

I've not been drawing nearly as much lately, it seems like there is always something that comes up and prevents me from taking the time. Even Tanner's soccer practice used to be a time when I could draw but right now it's so cold that a few of us mom's sit in my car together and so I don't draw, I talk. Oh well.

I feel so out of the loop with LJ since I've been away so much but I guess it's part of the ebb and flow of life. I do try and read the entries of my friends list when I get a chance. Maybe things will ease up sometime soon.

So as usual, I'm off to catch up with stuff and in this case, get things packed since today is a soccer practice day and we don't get finished until 7:00 P.M. Hope you all are well and happy and I'll check in when I get back.

Sick Guy and Irish Calcannon

2006-03-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

Sick Guy and Irish Calcannon
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Have you ever felt like this? Like when you have the flu or a bad cold? Poor guy, he's really feeling lousy.

Today Tanner and Paul and I got up and went to our favorite bagel bakery and had breakfast of fresh bagels and cream cheese with good coffee. A sunny window seat and the news paper while Tanner played with some ninja turtles made it a nice little time for us. After that we took a 40 minute, fast walk in a lovely subdivision with lots of ponds and waterfalls and enjoyed that too. Tanner says he wants to do this every Saturday.

I didn't fix any Irish dish for us last night so today I tried my hand at Colcannon. I've got it ready to go with our dinner tonight which I'm quite sure is not Irish fare. We're having Salmon and broccoli. Oh well, the Colcannon will go great with the Salmon and we'll enjoy it all. I've sampled the new dish and it's not exactly exciting, I'm hoping that the flavors will blend and it will get better in the next couple of hours. Here's what's in it:

Colcannon

3 pounds of Butter Gold potatoes (boiled well in salted water and mashed)

1 small head of Cabbage (boiled slightly in salted water and chopped fine)

1 onion chopped and sautéed in 1 TO. Butter for 5 minutes.

4 oz. cream added to the onion after it's sautéed.

A big pinch of dill weed

A small pinch of nutmeg

(both added to the onion/cream mixture)

Everything is mixed together with more butter (Maybe another Tablespoon) and salt and pepper to taste.

The recipe says to serve hot with a well in each pile on plates to which is added more butter that's been melted. Dip each fork full of Colcannon in the butter as it's eaten. Of course the butter and cream are really fattening so I cut back on both. I won't be adding the well of butter for dipping. I'm sure that makes the dish really good but it's just not worth it to me to add all those extra calories.

We'll see if it is a keeper.

Happy St. Paddy's Day

2006-03-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Paddy's Day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Anybody fixing Corned Beef and Cabbage? I'm not, actually I've never had it and would like to try it. My mom was born in Ireland but as far as I know she's never made the dish. There are other things that are distinctly Irish that I grew up with but Corned Beef and Cabbage is not one of them. Steak and Kidney Pie, Soda Bread, Potato Bread and a few other things, even kidney soup were around when I was growing up and as I recall I liked them. (Well, maybe not the Kidney Soup which smelled like urine as it simmered :-( ) Tonight we are going to an open house and I'm not sure if it's a St. Paddy's theme or not, it would be fun if it is.

I'm staying home most of the day today which feels pretty good to me. I've been neglecting stuff around my house and if I get just a little of it done I'll feel pretty good.

Haven't started a new embroidery yet, just having a hard time deciding what to do. It's ok, we are going to take a little trip during spring break and I want to have a project to work on during that time. We are going to see Paul's folks and brother, we haven't been to see them in ages and this is the right time for us. (We will arrive on the anniversary of the murder of Paul's sister 4 years ago, we hope that helps his parents to split their focus a little and gives them some cheer.) I would also like to go and see Holly and Elton but just can't fit it in at this time. I would like to spend the next 6 days getting things in order so when we leave I will feel good about how I left things and be happy when we get back. We'll see, lately I've been giving in to whims and not taking care of business like I should.

That's it for now, I've got some stuff that needs done this morning and I'm going to make myself do it.....

I've met my Goal!!!

2006-03-15T08:10:00.000-07:00

I've met my Goal!!!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Today I met my weight loss goal!!!!! 55 pounds!!! I'm so thrilled and enjoying the new me in many ways. However, I've been REAL sore since I played ball with Tanner the other day, whew! In spite of being in good shape my body wasn't used to hitting baseballs and chasing them. It's ok though, I plan to do it more regularly so I will not be so sore each time I do it.

Yesterday was the first day of spring soccer practice for Tanner. It was quite cold and although the kids didn't seem to mind, a few of us moms stayed in my car and watched from there. I'm sure we're in for some mighty chilly mornings when the games start. I know sports are really important for Tanner though, he loves them, does well at them they make him feel good about himself. He has a really great coach too, a wonderful role model for a kids with a great attitude.

Yesterday I bought a pair of short pants for summer and I'm going to embroider a design on them soon. Not sure what yet but I'm looking forward to the project. I've found that doing these projects can be very portable and I can work on them in spare minutes while in the car waiting for Paul or Tanner or in other waiting situations. I love to stay busy and feel productive and so this fits my life right now.

Fishy close-up

2006-03-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

Fishy close-up
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Fish Pants and Baseballs

2006-03-12T17:57:00.000-07:00

Fish Pants and Baseballs
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is my latest design on my jeans, I'm very happy with it! I wore them to go out last night and it was so fun to wear my own art *grin* !

Been so busy with "stuff" and so I enjoy the time I've had to work on drawing with thread. I've got an idea for another design that I think will be really fun to do and quite beautiful. The only drawing I've gotten done is a few ideas for the embroidery.

Today after church Paul, Tanner and I had to do a few errands, we had lunch out and then came home. Tanner and I left promptly and played baseball at a local field for a while. Why is this significant? Well, because part of my motivation for getting in shape and losing weight was so I could play with the little guy and now I can! Let me tell you if felt really good to say, Hey Tanner, you want to go hit some balls? He loved it, and I like to hit best and he likes to catch best so the two of us did great together. It was cool and no wind so we didn't even need a sweatshirt after a few hits. I'm pretty sure my shoulder will be sore tomorrow because I'm not good at throwing and it hurt while I was there. I don't care, I'll let it get built up so I can do even more as spring moves along.

Tomorrow I have to be at Tanner's school to help with a mosaic project that they have going on. I hope it's fun and Tanner is glad I'm helping. I've said this before but let me say again: there are not enough hours in each day to accomplish the things that need done and those that I want to do. Oh well, better than being bored I always say.

I'm not getting to check in with my friends list hardly ever these days but I take a peek when I can. Will try to respond to comments to the best of my ability! I'll post a picture of the fish closer up in the next post since I'm doing this thru flickr and can only post one at a time this way.

Running

2006-03-10T17:01:00.000-07:00

Running
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Running around all day and now I'm just wanting to sit down and relax. That is the plan for this evening, we are going to watch The Goblet of Fire and try to relax.

Besides that I've not anything to say. Hope all of you are having a good week and that the weekend is wonderful.

Image of the Day

2006-03-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

Image of the Day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Just posting a drawing today. I'm pretty much without much to say.

Will try to respond to yesterday's comments before Tanner gets home and I have to work with him.

Peeking in again

2006-03-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

Peeking in again
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Ok, so this is how I'm feeling today. I haven't checked in for days because of a recent humiliating and horrible thing that has happened to our family. I won't say more but lets just say last week was a bad week.

On the positive side, well, I guess I'm thankful that things are going pretty well with Tanner, I adore my husband and we are best friends and in spite of the deep and difficult places of being a family and a mom, I adore my children. I'm 53 pounds thinner, I'm strong and healthy, my hair is grown out and I have many gifts and talents. So in spite of it all I am a person who can see the blessings and I appreciate them so much.

And as I always say concerning the challenges.... This too shall pass!

Today Paul and I took a really good walk and gave it a lot of energy, we enjoyed it and are glad we did. Tomorrow I'll be back at the pool. We also got the call that our new lodge pole bed is ready, not sure when we can get away to pick it up though. (It's in another town and will take a few hours out of the day to get it.) I'm thinking about setting my easel and pastels up so I can do some art in my studio even if it's just in short bursts. Also, I've started the embroidery on my second pair of jeans, I think it's going to look really cool.

I'm sorry that I've not responded to comments for a while, I hope I can do that this week but I'm not sure.

The Ear is under water?

2006-02-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

The Ear is under water?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I've had fluid behind my eardrum for a couple of weeks and it's not going away. I've decided to go to the doc because it's driving me crazy, my own voice sounds odd to me when I talk and some other sounds are odd too. It feels like it's "stuffed" up. I hate to have to go and pay a doctor but since I don't know what else to do, I'm going to do it today.

I've designed a cool image for another pair of jeans and will try and get started on it this evening. I'd say I'm off on a bit of a tangent but it's fun!

No other words today, I'm feeling sort of "drippy" with the ear thing. Besides, I've got to leave in a few minutes and don't have a lot of time. I will say thanks for all the kudos about the embroidered pants! I'll reply to comments later today.

Busy Day

2006-02-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

Busy Day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I've been gone most of the day, arg. Worked out in the pool and it was fun, we had races across the pool in teams along with the regular stuff. Then I had lunch with a friend and we had fun visiting. After that was the memorial for Bob Huckins. It was long and I didn't even stay after for food, but it was a good celebration of his life with lots of remembrance from family and friends. It gave me much food for though about the things I'd like to be remembered for. Bob was a wonderful man and his life was really quite beautiful, same wife for 49 years, 3 grown sons with wonderful wives and families and many friends and much more.

Tonight my guys are all going roping together and I'm going to watch the Olympics by myself and also work on a little project I've got going. I love evenings to myself.

I've had 5 hard work outs this week and I'm feeling a bit on the tired side right now so I'm really looking forward to the peace and quiet.

The Bundle of Potential

2006-02-23T10:52:00.000-07:00

The Bundle of Potential
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I took this picture yesterday as Tanner was working on his spelling homework. Thought I'd post it since I was writing about him in the previous post.

Reflecting on the past

2006-02-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

Reflecting on the past
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I love this drawing! I did it while we were at the Indian reservation for Doctor appointments which was a very slow process. I guess I've mentioned how much I love doing pen and ink drawings.

So today I decided to take a day off of working out since I plan on going tomorrow and I feel that 5 days a week is unrealistic for what I can sustain on a regular basis. So I offered to walk with Paul this morning and I was thinking a casual 30 minute walk would be fine. Instead we ended up doing a 45 minute walk with lots of hill work and we both enjoyed it and were glad we did. Geesh, it's so nice to be in good shape again! Let me say to any of you who are struggling to loose weight and get in shape that it is well worth the effort, it adds so much to life to feel good, have energy and eat right. This year I'm looking forward to playing baseball with Tanner and kicking the soccer ball with him.

Also, I had a neat experience a few days ago that struck me as one of those "being in the moment" kind of times. Tanner and I had been doing some shopping and stopped at Taco Bell for lunch. As we were sitting there he mentioned that he and Paul (Papa) had sat at the very same table the night before when they stopped on their way to roping practice. Then it occurred to me that Paul and I had sat at that very same table the day after we found out that Tanner had been conceived. On that day almost 10 years ago I was grieving deeply and felt extremely fragile emotionally because 11 days earlier I had lost my dad and then greatly grieving because this child that had been conceived was not planned, our son was just barely 18, the mother was .... well lets say it seemed an incredible tragedy at the time. We were discussing what this child would mean in the life of our son, in our lives etc. We were in shock that we were going to be grandparents. Well obviously as time as passed the full impact of this child's life has had a huge effect on our lives. Now we share that same table with a beautiful little boy who we adore, we have become the guardians of this little one and share wonderful experiences with him that will never be shared with either parent, he is a little bundle of enormous potential that's been placed in our hands to raise. It's so strange how that same table in Taco Bell reminded me of those experiences. It was wonderful to reflect back on those incredibly difficult emotions of the time in the past and have a "marker" to remind me that grief gives way to growth and hope.

Just a day

2006-02-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

Just a day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Great workout today! Had lunch with Paul and then did just a wee bit of shopping. Didn't buy a thing which is real good.

The weather has taken a turn for the better, it's sunny and in the 40's, it's really nice to have a change from the cold and grey of the recent weeks.

Not much else to say for now.

Just babble

2006-02-21T11:25:00.000-07:00

Just babble
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Just had a lovely walk with Paul, we walked fast in a really ritzy part of town where the houses are enormous and surrounded by ponds and trees and stuff. We enjoyed ourselves and then had coffee and conversation before coming home to get to work.

I'm staying home the rest of the day and just doing stuff here that needs taken care of. It's all gray and cold and actually kind of ugly outside so it's nice to be warm in the house. It's been nice to send Tanner off to school this morning, he had a good long weekend with good attitudes for the most part, lots of fun with a friend for hours yesterday but it's also nice to send him off to school.

You know how kids can say funny things sometimes? Well, the other night while Tanner was with the babysitter he watched a show he likes and was trying to tell us about it, he said it had "hillbillies from the 70's that wore astro hair". Hah! Of course he meant "hippies from the seventies that wore afros". I loved it and have laughed quite a bit about it.

We know there will be a funeral this week, just don't know when. Thanks for the condolences concerning Bob, I appreciate it.

Loss

2006-02-20T14:39:00.000-07:00

Loss
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This drawing is about how difficult I find it to get to that quiet place of inner contemplation. There are so many things that break into my attempts for solitude, so much complexity in life.

This morning Tanner and I dashed off to the "Y" and enjoyed our time there. As I usually do, I called Paul when I got out of there to tell him what was up next on my agenda. It was so sad to hear that he had gotten the call that our friend Bob Huckins had died at 1:30 this morning. This is my friend that was the gallery director at Drop Leaf Gallery in Rembrandt's Coffee House. We have known Bob and his wife for quite a few years, Bob had been Holly's spiritual father in many ways and Paul had sold he and his wife their home. I'm not sorry for Bob who I believe has now looked into the face of his Savior, but I am heart sick for the loss of his wife and family as well as many close friends, etc. He was a good man and will be so missed.

Now I'm off to try and reply to quite a list of comments and e-mails. Hmmm, they do build up when I don't take time on the computer.

Going to the "Y" yippeee!

2006-02-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

Going to the "Y" yippeee!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I love doing pen and ink drawings like this, it's just so fun for me!

I'm feeling quite well and am so excited that I get to go work out today!

Yesterday was a nice day with my Paul, we had a drive, looked at some land we bought for investment, had more driving to goof off, went out to lunch and also ordered a very rustic bed (lodge pole frame etc.) since the cal king sleep number doesn't fit in our old rustic, lodge pole set up. All in all it was a lovely day.

The bed will be like the one here in the upper picture only the upright posters are taller and it's has a bit more character. http://www.pinepride.com/

Gotta run for now.

Collage

2006-02-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

Collage
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is a little collage/drawing that I did in my moleskin a while back. Did I mention that I finished that moleskin, did a drawing on each of the 120 pages.

Today I'm feeling a bit better and will be spending most of the day with my dear Paul. We haven't had much time to goof off together for a while so we are going to take a little drive today and just hang out. I love this kind of day and will enjoy every minute with him.

Toodles!

Happy Valentines Day

2006-02-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Valentines Day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Happy Valentines Day to all my LJ friends!

Flickr

2006-02-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Laying Low

2006-02-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

Laying Low
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Well I'm laying low today and trying to get well. I'm not feeling really, really awful, just a cold with cough and stuffiness. The worst part of course is knowing that it will get worse if I do too much. Yes, I know this from experience.

This morning I made delicious Ricotta pancakes and bacon for breakfast for the boys- since it's Valentines day. I set out boxes of chocolates for each of them too. Tanner was thrilled and promptly put his in his backpack to take to school and share. Paul gave me a 90 minute massage gift card, isn't that wonderful? I don't know when I'll go and have the massage but it will be a special treat when I decide to do it.

Today I'm going to make a large batch of Borscht and freeze it in dinner sized portions for future use. I love having food in the freezer to have later. Other than that I'm not going to over exert myself at all. It should be a pretty low key day until 4:00 when the little one comes home. That's it, pretty boring post but it's all I've got right now.

Yesterday was better...

2006-02-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was better...
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

So yesterday was such a nice day and I enjoyed it until the early evening when I started feeling lousy :-( I had babied myself all last week because I was sick and didn't want it to get worse and yet last night I started feeling quite a bit worse, cough, stuffed up and overall crummy. Bleh, is it just because the cold is breaking up or is it that my body caved in and got it in earnest? I felt like a wretch this morning with a headache and all but right now I feel pretty good. I'm afraid to go to the "Y" to work out because I have the cough. Need I say how frustrated I feel?

Peaceful and Productive

2006-02-12T15:58:00.000-07:00

Peaceful and Productive
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I did this drawing the night after Holly and Elton got married, since my sketchbook is sort of a visual journal sometimes too. Do you see their names?

Having a great weekend, staying home and cleaning house for one thing, that always makes me feel so good. I also had a nice lunch out with a friend yesterday and nice time with Paul and Tanner too. Today Tanner has his favorite friend over and they have been having a really good time, it's so nice to see kids have fun and get along well.

Right now I have a chicken in the oven and it's starting to smell great in the house. I'll add carrots and potatoes and make a simple but yummy dinner and then we'll sit down to watch some of the Olympics later this evening.

I'm real happy that I'll be going to the Y in the morning. I've missed a whole week and I'm feeling anxious to get back into the routine. I did walk with Paul this last week though and I lost another pound. I'm not losing very fast now but it's still steady, I have six pounds to go to reach my goal. I'm almost over the cold which has been holding me back in some ways, so glad to see it go.

So, that's about it for now, nothing exciting but I'll take peaceful over exciting any day, kwim?

Sick

2006-02-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

Sick
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

My nephew was sick when he picked me up from the airport last Friday in Seattle, now I'm sick. I was feeling a bit like I was getting it the last couple of days so Paul and I walked instead of me going to the pool. Drat, now I'm fully sick and I'm not going to work out at all today. Boo!

It's really hard for me to sit down and be still when I'm sick, I feel so frustrated. Oh well, at least we know it will pass.

I've been a bit out of control recently. Way too much shopping is taking place and I feel guilty about it. Yesterday I had a fun lunch out with my mom and my cousin and then we went to the mall because I wanted to take some earrings back. Well, I bought more than I took back including bedding for the new bed.

I had to go back last night because the duvet cover wasn't right. Bleh, it's good that I'm staying home today and not spending money.

I've been into buying and wearing earrings with plenty of "bling" just because it's fun to wear them with casual clothes and not just to dress up, I've been enjoying the sales at Macys, it's been fun to fit into clothes that are cute and stylish. However, I realize that a person can only wear so many clothes and even if the prices are amazingly low I still don't need very many. So I need to stay home and quit the shopping until I actually NEED something. So there, this is a confession about my silly, shallowness and my decision to curtail my sins.... or at least modify them ;-( Today I'll just putts around the house and make soup, I won't even need to wear cute clothes or new shoes and sparkly earrings.

My Sister and I

2006-02-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

My Sister and I
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

No drawing for now, I just wanted to drop in and say that I've been gone to Washington. My sister had her 50th birthday and it was a surprise for me to come and see her over the weekend. I left on Friday at noon and got home yesterday. She had no idea that I was coming and was very happy that I got to be there for her party. We had so much fun together. This picture was taken at the restaurant where we had a little celebration in her honor.

Now that I'm home I've got lots to do but I just wanted to post this picture of the two of us. ( I couldn't say anything about leaving in case she read my journal.) You guys know that I'm the blond and she's the redhead, right?

Birdie

2006-02-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

Birdie
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Not much to say this morning, I've got my nose to the grind stone. Both of us slept well on the new bed and feel rested this morning, it's quite wonderful.

Busy day as usual.

Portrait of a Snow Lady

2006-02-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

Portrait of a Snow Lady
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

After I made my snow woman earlier in the year I did her portrait, isn't she cute?

I'm spending a day at home today and so glad. Yesterday was fun, it was a Costco day with my mom, now I need a stay at home day too. We put together our Sleep Number Bed last night and spent our first night on it. Paul slept better than he has in years and woke up without his back hurting! He's so thrilled. I on the other hand I did not sleep well but it was because I was all wound up and somewhat caffeinated from drinking diet coke with dinner, not the smartest thing I've ever done. I think I'm going to take a nap on the bed today though since I'm sort of bushed.

Paul and I did have a lovely walk today, it was crisp but not too cold and we enjoyed it a lot. So that's already the 4th day this week that I've exercised.

Tanner has had such a wonderful week this week! I changed his med back to the old one (Concerta) and he is not nearly so oppositional. I'm sure that the Adderal was too aggressive. Will have appointment with the Doc on Monday so we'll see what he has to say. I'm also giving the little guy at least one day a week (on the weekend) without any medicine. It really breaks my heart that he doesn't function successfully without the stuff, in a perfect world he wouldn't have to function in a school setting like the one he's in. I'm also considering (in the seedling stages) home schooling him. Just starting to do a little research.

That's about it for now, my world is a little small right now, just trying to get things in order and set priorities instead of living by the tyranny of the urgent.

Monday Again! Gads...

2006-01-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

Monday Again! Gads...
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Good Morning, It seems like Mondays are every other day to me. Geesh, and I get less done each week it seems. However, I've had a very strenuous workout already, a good talk on the phone with my little mommy and now I'm home to have lunch with Paul and then to get some work done before the little one gets home.

Not much else to say this morning, just forcing my nose to the grindstone.

I don't look like the old Sheila any more

2006-01-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

I don't look like the old Sheila any more
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Don't know what to say about this drawing. I like it a lot but I don't feel like it fits my mood today, it must have been how I was feeling on the day I drew it. I have day's like that but today is not one of them. I'm having a very positive outlook today, enjoying myself and not worrying about stuff. It's one of those days when the sun is shining brightly but there are small storms that drift through and drop rain for a few minutes in the valley and then move to the mountains where they drop snow and make the view gorgeous. In between there are those big, puffy white billows of clouds floating along, it's really great. On top of that I've lost 47 pounds, I'm enjoying shopping for new clothes (and it seems like there are a ton of sales), I've worked out all week and will enjoy the weekend and Paul and I will be purchasing that new Sleep Number bed tonight, we need a new bed real bad. So hey, things are good as of this minute and I'm so glad.

I went to the chiropractor today for the first time in months and he didn't recognize me! It was so fun, I was sitting in the adjustment room and he walked up to the door to look at the chart, peeked in and as he went back down the hall I heard him saying, "this chart is for Sheila but that's not her in there". Isn't that so cool? Well, last time I saw him my hair was much shorter, not blond, I didn't wear glasses and I was about 40 pounds heavier. Paul came in a few minutes later and we got a real kick out of it. After we both got adjusted Paul and I went to Subway for a sandwich and had a nice time together.

Right now it's almost time for Tanner to get off the bus, I love Friday's because he doesn't have homework and so I don't have to deal with the opposition and frustration. I do plan on doing quite a bit of math with him this weekend but that's because I want to do it and not because it has to be done. I think I'll take it in small steps and not make it a marathon and that will be better for both of us.

I'm hoping to get to check in a bit with my LJ friends today, we'll see.

Birds Again

2006-01-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

Birds Again
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is one of my favorite bird drawings, not sure why.

Been gone all morning until 2:00 pm, Doc with Paul, walking with Paul, lunch and a bit of shopping for a good bed. We were trying out a Sleep Number bed, anyone have one and care to share how you like it? It seemed great to us but its pretty darn spendy.

Now that I'm home I've got stuff to do, I hate it when I have to leave and can't at least get the breakfast dishes cleaned up. The nice thing is that I've got dinner all ready so I don't have to worry about that.

Not much else to say for now.

The New Year's Baby?

2006-01-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

The New Year's Baby?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

When I did this drawing I was thinking of the new year's baby. That was almost a month ago I guess.

It's beautiful and sunny outside, makes me wish spring were a bit closer than it is. I had a few things to do in town after my work out this morning but now I'm home and getting things done here. I had put a chicken with lots of garlic in the crock pot before I left this morning and it smells so wonderful, I'm ready to eat right now! ... but I won't. Well, most days when Tanner gets home we sit down together and I have a latte and he has a hot cocoa with a bit of espresso in it (so he can call it a mocha.) Then we start on homework and lately he's been reading to me from a book he got at school called Frindle. I love it that he's such a good reader.

I was thinking how much enjoyment I've gotten from my drawing project. I've spent countless hours drawing and coloring in my sketchbooks in the last 2 years. Mainly I draw in the evening at home but I take my Moleskin with me often and draw while I wait for appointments and stuff. I did a very detailed drawing last week while at the Indian reservation waiting for the whole family to have their doctor appointments. (I can't see the doctor there because I don't have enough Indian blood.) When I start painting again I have hundreds of drawings ready to use as ideas for larger more important work, I know I'll be so happy about that. In fact I think about turning some of the drawings into pastel paintings and the idea is pretty exciting. I guess that's the medium that seems right somehow for translating the drawings. At any rate, I have sure enjoyed my sketchbooks and can't imagine not drawing regularly.

Fw: Collaboration with Tanner

2006-01-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

Fw: Collaboration with Tanner
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sheila Hudson

To: Flickr

Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2006 11:53 AM

Subject: Collaboration with Tanner

Tanner drew the little guy and I did the rest, patterns, texture and color. He thought it was really cool to see it finished.

Been out for a walk with my dear Paul this morning, it was quite cold but nice anyway. Afterward we went out for a cup of coffee just to spend a wee bit more time together. It was nice.

Now it's time for me to do a bit of household stuff and it always seems like Tanner is home before I get to anything else. We are working hard on establishing consistent routines with him and homework etc., so it requires some time. Last night I taught him how to mix up pancake batter for breakfast this morning, he loved it. I'm also teaching him to do dishes and other household stuff. He needs to stay busy and I just can't see that watching TV or playing with his Gameboy is the best way to do that.

My Borscht turned out great and someone asked for the recipe, I think I posted it somewhere before so I will look and post it again in case anyone else is interested.

Monday's return to normal....

2006-01-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

Monday's return to normal....
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is the first time I've sat down today besides meals. I've worked out, done the marketing and now I'm in the process of making a big pot of delicious Borscht. I loved it because as I started to cut up the vegetables the sun came shining through the clouds and lit up my kitchen. I'm making a double batch so I can freeze some for later, we love it and it's so handy to have some put away.

Holly and Elton left on Sunday and Paul and I are enjoying feeling like we are getting back to normal. So far the newly weds have not had bad roads, they were in Rawlins, Wyoming at lunch time.

I've done a few drawings in the evenings lately and I've really enjoyed it. My Moleskin has 120 pages and I'm on 116 so I've almost filled it up and will be needing to start a new one! That's it for now, I hear the timer going and it's time to do the next step on the soup.

Bird 'n' Bitch

2006-01-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

Bird 'n' Bitch
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Hi LJ friends. I'm sitting at my computer goofing off instead of being productive. I suppose I've given myself permission.

I was working with Tanner on math until his friend invited him to go sledding, it wasn't fun doing the math and I was at the end of my rope so it saved his neck (from me) that he got to go on a fun trip. Tanner fights tooth and nail about working on homework and makes it a real drag. I have to persevere and remain calm and deal with him and when he finally "gets" it and is finished he feels great and is very loving. I would love to find a different way but so far I'm at a loss. As a matter of fact he had a bad attitude most of the morning and didn't even shape up when he knew he would get to go have fun, honestly. What a wonderful morning.

This evening Paul and I are going out to dinner with one of Paul's business associates and I am looking forward to that. We are going to P.F. Changs which is new in Boise, I've heard it's real good food. I'm trying to eat light today so I will feel freer to eat later.

Holly and Elton will be leaving to head back to Chicago tomorrow. Sure hope the roads are ok for them, this is not a great time to be driving that far and that direction. It's been nice to have them around but I'm ready to get back to life as usual (whatever that is). When there are house guests even if it is your own kids it seems like things are always up in the air, kwim? They are not a bother and yet there are more complications and schedule organizing to do etc. Maybe I'm just in a bit of a snitty mood this afternoon, I don't know. Anyway, they will be off and we will be taking care of the usual daily routine again soon.

It sure is nice to be alone in the house for a while and free to mess around on the computer. Hope you are getting some down time also.

Yesterday

2006-01-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Yesterday our family including Tanner, Holly and Elton, Dan, Paul and I, went to the Duck Valley Indian Reservation in Owyhee, Nevada. We had so much fun on the drive laughing and talking. Paul, Holly and Dan are registered Native Americans and were seen by the Doctor there. It was a beneficial trip and the Doctor was very attentive and helpful for all of them even though it was a full 5 and 1/2 hours in the clinic. Holly had the most extensive exams and we learned some stuff about some of her illness that was helpful although there must be follow through in Chicago to get more help. Poor thing is sicker than a dog today because of some high powered antibiotics that she's being treated with. It seems that she has P.I.D., does anyone know much about that? Anyway, it was fun and helpful and an interesting experience for all of us.

I chose to share the snowflake image because we had lots of snow to drive in yesterday and I loved it. It's rained a lot here at home and there is snow on the mountains but nothing in the valley so I was glad to see it there yesterday.

Today I've been to the "Y" and now home to work.

I'm off to do some research about P.I.D. right now but if anyone has any helpful info please let me know.

Priorities

2006-01-17T09:06:00.000-07:00

Priorities
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Strange image, I know. It's my husband who is anything but psychedelic. (I think I spelled that wrong?)

I'm just about to go to the "Y" and get in the pool, I love doing my work out. Later I have the excitement of getting my Honda CRV serviced, wow.

Actually though, it's been a great weekend, very productive in terms of getting the organizational project started in the office. Paul and I are both on the same page about what needs done and we're focusing on the job no matter how long it takes. My main jobs at this time of my life are all about family and home, to get things in order and parent Tanner. I feel confident that if I narrow my focus down to these two for a while it will enable me to expand it in the near future and gain more balance. Tanner is a very challenging kid and getting more that way as time goes by and he realizes more about his situation (flakey parents, being raised by grandparents etc.). He's also A.D.D. like his dad, pretty severe, and he seems to have Oppositional, Defiant Disorder. He's not a fun kid to raise in many ways and I realize that it will take a very concentrated effort to achieve success. I'm not feeling sorry for myself at this point, just realizing that I am having to choose priorities and move ahead with my life.

So, I'm taking a deep breath and plunging in. I will still be drawing and I am looking forward to painting in the near future. I know that I have to take care of myself or I will be swallowed up and filled with resentment which is counter productive.

On that serious note I must end and head for the pool!

Just a bit of stuff

2006-01-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

Just a bit of stuff
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

So far today I've gotten T-boy off to school, Paul and I have had a wonderful walk and I've gotten caught up with a friend via the phone. So far so good. I'm happy that I don't have to go anywhere today so some home stuff can be taken care of.

I'm now at a 45 pound weight loss and feeling very happy about it. My actual "under the fat" figure is emerging and although it's not perfect it does look way better in clothing than the larger one. It is incredibly liberating to feel so much better about myself, I highly recommend it to those of you who are feeling like you need to shed some pounds.

I'm still not spending very much time on my computer these days, hopefully I can be back more in a month or so. I do try to check in once in a while and see what's up though. Geesh, there is so much creativity that I'm missing right now. I am still drawing but usually I don't get to finish a drawing a day.

Pissing and moaning

2006-01-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

Pissing and moaning
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Have you met this man? I think I've seen him around in various places all my life.

I'm having the post holiday/wedding re-adjustment. I feel a bit down, a bit overwhelmed and kind of depressed. I know it will pass and it's to be expected but I sure don't enjoy it. On the positive side I was free to go to the Y this morning and I really enjoyed that.

I've got so many things that I want to do and need to do that it boggles my mind. I am having to make lists so I can remember. I suppose it's my own fault that I'm overwhelmed because I don't stay on top of things, I am hoping to do better this year. At least now it's not an energy issue, I've got plenty of energy now that I've lost weight- one thing that I am so thankful for. I think I'm one of those people who just goes around "putting out the fires" and I don't get the routine stuff done on a regular basis. I have always been one to get things done when they need done, sort of intuitively, but not learned to do it in a disciplined way. Now that I don't get things done intuitively I see the wisdom in having discipline. Is it too late to learn? Can I make myself stick to a program or am I just a spoiled brat who wants to whine? I suspect the latter today.

I'll probably have a totally different outlook in a day or two, sure hope so.

Time to re-group

2006-01-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

Time to re-group
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

So the wedding is over and H and E are gone on their honey moon. I didn't realize I was so tired until I got up this morning and felt like my energy had left me. I'm glad the wedding is over but it was fun. It was a very laid back wedding and everyone involved seemed to enjoy themselves, especially the bride and groom.

I'm going to miss having lots of people in the house, Holly and Elton have wonderful friends that are fun to be around. We've been up late every night but didn't mind because we were either getting things ready for the wedding or just goofing off. Some of the friends from out of town stayed here, Tanner was in heaven because one of the guys played chess and other games with him and one couple played Scrabble with him.

Today Paul and Tanner and I went out to breakfast and then we took Tanner to school and went for a walk. We are trying to take it easy today because of the lack of energy. I took lots of pictures at the wedding and I've been editing them. I'm not really happy about how most of them turned out, it is hard for me to take good photos on the run like that, I do better if I've got lots of time to think and people have time to pose. In this case I suppose my photos are not much more than documentation about the wedding and who was there. It's also a problem that since I had to use flash there are lots of demonic looking people with bright red eyes. It means lots of editing of course and the software I have is not the best for correcting this problem. There were a couple of other people taking pictures also, sure hope they did better than me.

Yesterday was my mom's 70th birthday also. My sister and I had bought her a digital camera which I gave to her last week, she was very pleased with that. Also Holly tried to honor her last night by proposing a toast to her for her 70th. She is a very young 70 I must say.

Paul and I plan on getting started on some organizational things in our lives in the next day or two. We are in such need of getting things in order and doing some planning, we're both anxious to get started. It will mean that I am delayed on new art projects but I suspect it will also free me up when I do get started. I suspect that it will be a good month before we are on top of it but that's ok, it will save time and stress when we get finished. I do plan to continue drawing, it's my only artistic outlet and I really need it. I drew 266 drawings in 2005- lots of them can be used as ideas for paintings this year.

Blah

2006-01-06T19:26:00.000-07:00

Blah
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

No explanation, this is one of my recent drawings. The guy doesn't look to happy with life does he?

I've not much to say really, I am just being swept along with the general busy-ness of the pre-wedding plans and such. In fact, I'm feeling a bit numb or something. I just seem to be generally uninterested in things, I think I'm just tired of the hubbub and I want it to be over and life to return to semi-predictable life. I don't mean I'm feeling sour, just indifferent for some reason. It's weird. Maybe I feel like this guy looks?

Anyway, we will have pretty much everything ready for the wedding by tomorrow afternoon and then maybe it will be just a matter of relaxing until the actual time, right? Well of course we know that's not right, on Sunday there will be lots of little things to bustle around and do at the last minute. Still, I will say that this wedding is a very simple one and I prefer the quick and easy kind like this.

Tonight we are just going to kick back and watch the boob tube in an effort to relax, it sounds great to me. (I will be sketching of course.)

Again, I'm not around, haven't been able to check in with friends but I'll eventually be back. I can't believe 2005 is over, geesh.

I am still kicking

2006-01-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am still kicking
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This drawing is a collaboration between Tanner and I, he did the tree and I decorated it and colored it. He was not happy that I made it these colors, he wanted a green tree. Oh well.

I feel so honored that a couple of you have inquired if I'm ok, thank you.

I am actually just fine, I've had a great Christmas and New Years. We are in the throws of throwing together Holly and Elton's wedding in a big hurry so you can guess that I've been unusually busy. It's really the way I like it concerning the wedding, when it's done this way there is not time to get all overly detailed about choices and it's over in a wink :-0

The wedding is this coming Sunday so all of the preparations are going on this week. We had 4 concentrated days of shopping last week beginning on the day after Christmas, we had so much fun and got wonderful bargains on almost everything. Elton's mom also gave the couple a wonderful party at a local bed and breakfast on the night of the 30th which was fun. (She is from out of town so that's why she threw it at a b and b.) This week we've hit the ground running also and things are coming together just fine, I'm sure it will get a bit stressful by Friday or Saturday but so far so good.

Tanner has been great and easy to deal with during his vacation from school but he started again yesterday which is also good ;-)

Oh, I'm now down 43 pounds! I'm starting to get a bit anxious to get the last 12 or 13 off but I know it's a tough time of the year to do that. I'm ok, just eating the same and happy with my new size. I've bought quite a few cute clothes, mostly tops and jackets (little hoodies and such) but only one pair of jeans because I know they will be too big in a week or two.

So, that's all I have time to write for now, just wanted to check in with my LJ friends and say hey and let you know what's up.

Pretty?

2005-12-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

Pretty?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

These are the snow laden berries of the Mountain Ash tree, I love the colors in this photo that I took a couple of weeks ago when Paul's brother was here.

I'm in the strangest mood. I have a ton of things to do, still some shopping, planning Christmas dinner, wrapping and cleaning. Instead I just want to goof off. I did a ton of errands today and all the while planned on coming home and getting some stuff done here but it didn't turn out that way. I was so tired of rushing around town and doing a lot of little stops with Tanner chattering away (at times being argumentative) that when I came home I faded out and didn't start being productive as planned. I'm so happy that the little guy had a birthday party to go to tonight, I needed a break.

What did I do? Well, after he left I made a lot of really great coffee and got on the computer to browse around while I enjoyed the coffee. Paul is here with me enjoying coffee while he works in his office that he shares with me. In just a little while we will go out to dinner since Tanner is having dinner at the party.

What do I have left to do before Friday night when Holly and Elton get home (hopefully) if the roads between Chicago and Idaho are not really bad?

This list is for my own benefit... like....note to self:

Change beds in guest room

Plan menu and shop for Christmas meal

Finish shopping for gifts (not sure what I need)

Do a Costco run

Clean house (arg! it's bad)

Bake & decorate cookies with Tanner

Do some laundry

Wrap gifts

Tanner will be at a friends for a good portion of the day tomorrow so that's a good time to wrap gifts since most of them are for him. He'll also be gone part of Thursday which means the cookie thing will have to be Friday. Geesh, I guess tomorrow will be a clean house day and Thursday will have to be Costco run day. It helps to have a plan, I feel better already! *grin*

I have done several drawings but don't have the new ones photographed yet, that's why I posted a pretty photo today.

More Pears and Stuff

2005-12-16T20:07:00.000-07:00

More Pears and Stuff
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I like this one.

I'm feeling real good about getting all my decorations up yesterday, it was fun and it feels good to have it done. I'm not going to do any cleaning for several more days because I don't want to do it twice and I do want it done for Holly and Elton coming home. I've still got a wee bit of shopping left to do, mostly stuff with Tanner so he can get some gifts, he's been saving his money. I also want to do some baking but that will be next week. I think Tanner and I will make some decorated sugar cookies to give as gifts.

I've now lost 40 pounds! I am not feeling fat anymore and I have way more energy, still not to my goal but the end is in site!

I got a new, nifty phone today, one that takes pictures and all. Well, I will not be showing the pictures from the phone because from what I understand it's quite expensive. Still it will be fun. Can you tell I don't know much about it yet?

Tonight I plan on just sitting back and enjoying the Christmas feel in my house and letting other things slide, it's been so hectic lately. In fact, I think I'll even be able to draw! I've not been able to do much drawing for a few weeks at least.

My First Shopping Day

2005-12-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

My First Shopping Day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

One of the collages in my Moleskin from a while back.

Today I did my first wee bit of shopping. I didn't have very long to be in town because I had worked out at the Y and then met Paul for lunch. Still, I got started and tomorrow I will do more. I don't really have that many people to buy for, mainly our little Tanner.

I also got the Christmas decorations out and ready. We store them for the year so it is a bit of an advance just to have them at our house. The tree is still put away though so I can't actually get with it on decorating yet.

It must all come together by the end of the week or I will be too stressed for words. I think I can do it though.

Popping In

2005-12-12T22:03:00.000-07:00

Popping In
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I've actually gotten to draw just a wee bit tonight, it feels good. This has been the longest spell without drawing in almost 2 years. Our company left this morning and I got my nose right to the grind stone. My cards are pretty much ready to mail tomorrow! Of course that is all I've done about Christmas so far so I plan on going shopping after I work out in the morning. I've made a list of ideas and hope all will fall into place rather simply.

I feel so stressed out about Christmas every year, I could easily just skip it and feel happy. Oh, I always feel better as the day approaches and I've got my ducks in a row but really, isn't it such a bunch of stuff to get done in an already busy time? I love to give gifts, I even like to bake and make yummy, pretty food to give away, but I wish I did it more throughout the year and not all at once. It's my problem, I know.

So anyway, I just had a minute and thought I'd post a drawing and say hi! I don't even have the hope of reading many journals or blogs until January sometime so please excuse my lack of comments and know that I hope to be back regularly sometime in the future.

Fw: Popping In

2005-12-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

Fw: Popping In
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

----- Original Message -----

From: Sheila Hudson

To: Flickr

Sent: Monday, December 12, 2005 9:27 PM

Subject: Popping In

I've actually gotten to draw just a wee bit tonight, it feels good. This has been the longest spell without drawing in almost 2 years. Our company left this morning and I got my nose right to the grind stone. My cards are pretty much ready to mail tomorrow! Of course that is all I've done about Christmas so far so I plan on going shopping after I work out in the morning. I've made a list of ideas and hope all will fall into place rather simply.

I feel so stressed out about Christmas every year, I could easily just skip it and feel happy. Oh, I always feel better as the day approaches and I've got my ducks in a row but really, isn't it such a bunch of stuff to get done in an already busy time? I love to give gifts, I even like to bake and make yummy, pretty food to give away, but I wish I did it more throughout the year and not all at once. It's my problem, I know.

So anyway, I just had a minute and thought I'd post a drawing and say hi! I don't even have the hope of reading many journals or blogs until January sometime so please excuse my lack of comments and know that I hope to be back regularly sometime in the future.

Can it really be the 10th of December?

2005-12-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

Can it really be the 10th of December?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I am horrified in some ways that it's already the 10th and I've not started on Christmas shopping or planning. Paul's brother and his friend are here this week visiting and we've been busy but I should have done some stuff earlier. Oh well, this week will have to be designated for the big Christmas push. Paul and I will be going to the company party tonight and Uncle Phil will be babysitting Tanner. We will not stay all that long this year but I do want to go so I can wear my new pretty clothes. I'm sure some people will wonder who Paul's new woman is, lol.

Yesterday we took a drive to the snowy, beautiful mountains and had a nice time. Today we are going to see the Narnian Chronicles, we are all really looking forward to it! We stay busy all the time, wouldn't want to slow down and relax you know :-/

I've got about half of my Christmas cards printed and glittered, working on the other half now. It's a real slow job because my printer is slow, at least the end in sight though. As you can guess I've been working on them in stolen moments while having guests. I figure if I can send them out by the 12th or 13th it will have to do.

I've not been able to check on my friends or do much on my computer besides the card project but I hope to get back to it after Christmas or maybe after the wedding.

Hope you are all well and getting more stuff done than I am!

Did you miss me?

2005-12-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

Did you miss me?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I've been busy and now we have company. I haven't even been able to draw for days! Anyway, I'm almost finished with my Christmas card, now I need to print and add a few touches and send. I'll try to get some time to check in soon, as for now I'm off again.....

More Sunday Pears

2005-12-02T17:49:00.000-07:00

More Sunday Pears
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Just posting this image for the day and not spending much time here, I am home alone and want to work on my Christmas card project again.

Been in a bit of a grumpy, boo hoo mood today so I'm keeping to meself.

Hope all of you have had a great week!

The Snow Woman's View

2005-12-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

The Snow Woman's View
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is what the snow woman is looking at, she's got a great view of the mountains. It really isn't common to get this much snow overnight here and that's why I'm so excited.

collage

2005-12-01T06:36:00.000-07:00

collage
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is a little collage in my moleskin, it was really fun to create it!

I'm up early, couldn't sleep. There are at least 2 inches of snow outside and it's still falling! I love snow.

Yesterday I ended up skipping my work out, Paul and I just needed to spend a bit of time together. Later I went with my cousin to look at houses, she's buying one just a few miles away which makes me happy.

Today I will be going to my work out and then some shopping and in the afternoon going to get my hair colored. I'm just having a bit more blond put in to conceal the new growth which doesn't really show much since the gray blends so well with the blond. Still, I've got parties and the wedding coming up and I want it to look it's best during this time. After this one it will probably be 6 months or more before I do it again.

I'm starting to think about getting some of my Christmas decorations out. It surprises me to say it, I think it's because I've bought some really nice stuff the last few years and it is simple and elegant, it won't require much fussing at all. The tree will go up in a few weeks, I'm in no hurry for that. I've not been able to draw quite as much lately, it just seems that there is always something coming up during my regular drawing time.

I've really not much going on that is journal worthy, haven't for quite some time.

Sunday Pears/Pairs

2005-11-29T11:35:00.000-07:00

Sunday Pears/Pairs
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Someone asked me what Sunday Pears would look like so I messed with that idea a bit and this is one of the drawings that I did. I know that Sunday pears would look much different to those who are not of the Christian persuasion.

Today I'm going back to town to do more errands and shopping, seems like I'm always on the go these days. I found that I can wear Cold Water Creek clothes again! I am so excited about this because they have wonderful stuff that suits me well. So I found some stuff yesterday and wanted to think about it for a bit before I bought any. I have to be careful that what I buy will still fit when I reach my goal weight which should be in another couple of months or so. I love basic clothing that can be used for many occasions, I never buy clothes that are for just one event. And I don't like to shop a lot but let me say that having one pair of jeans that fit and even my undies are too big is getting old. This is that time when I am forced to make a few well thought out purchases to get me by.

Besides that I've got a visit and lunch with my dear friend and framer, a Dr. visit with Paul, buying a birthday gift for one of Tanner's friends and some groceries to get. Arg! So my day is full beginning with my work out this morning.

I'm still working on getting used to the glasses, leaving them on my face all day to force the issue.

So anyway, I'm off again to get things done.

Monday in a blur

2005-11-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

Monday in a blur
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I guess you've noticed that I've explored this idea quite a bit lately? These little drawings were fun to do.

I ran out of decaf and I'm buzzed on coffee this morning- I'm super sensitive to caffeine. Got my work out and then my last physical therapy session and then I'm going to go look for the perfect dress for the holiday festivities and wedding. I like to shop alone for this kind of thing since it could take a while and I want to shop selfishly for only my needs.

I worked for hours on the Christmas card idea and didn't get near finished. If my printer printed out exactly like the drawing on card stock it would help, instead it doesn't look as crisp and so I have to make adjustments in a program that I'm not very familiar with. Oh well, I'll be back at it tomorrow I suspect.

I'm in a hurry this morning to get Tanner to bus on time, arg, rush, rush, rush!

Have a happy Monday kids!

Super Sunday

2005-11-27T11:08:00.000-07:00

Super Sunday
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

It is such a great day today! My company along with Paul and Tanner are gone to a team roping all day and I have time to myself to work on my Christmas card project.

It's sunny and bright outside and my house is full of light- I love this kind of day!

I've nothing else to say but Yippee!

Myself in Glasses

2005-11-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

Myself in Glasses
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

What can I say? I am a middle aged woman and I can't hide it. Don't I look smart in my glasses, lol!

My Holly has gone again....

2005-11-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

My Holly has gone again....
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Holly and Elton left this morning, we had them at the airport at 5:30 am. I hated to see them go, we love having them around. I was so happy that we got to have them more than expected and I actually got a little time alone with my Holly Berry. They did leave stressed about homework that didn't get done while they were here but I think it was almost impossible to do hours of homework with so much other stuff going on.

We had a lovely Thanksgiving at my Mom's, it was simple and enjoyable. She sent us home with leftovers which we have enjoyed a lot.

Today I cleaned house again since we have company coming tonight. It was actually pleasant cleaning because the house was filled with bright sunlight which we hadn't seen for over a week because of the inversion. In fact we got a nice storm with wind, rain and snow yesterday and so today is sparkling clear and beautiful.

I'm so anxious to get moving on making my Christmas cards, it seems like I've had so many other things to get in the way. I'm hoping tomorrow I can get to it and spend most of the day at it.

Oh, I am now one of the people who wear glasses all the time. Got them yesterday and I am in the process of adjusting to progressive lenses. I've worn the kind of reading glasses you buy at the store without a prescription for several years but finally needed more. When I get a picture of me with the new ones on I'll post it and see if you think the style I chose is flattering. Holly and Elton both liked them so that made me feel pretty good! Ok, that's it for now, I'll try and answer e-mails and comments in a day or two when I've got some time alone.

The last of the Christmas card candidates

2005-11-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

The last of the Christmas card candidates
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Been real busy with various stuff, Holly and Elton have been here the last 2 days. It's so nice to be able to talk and be together.

Tomorrow I have it real easy since my mom is making the biggest part of the feast, this is the first time I've had it this easy in years and years. I will go over early to help her with the last minute details as well as bring a dish myself, seems almost effortless compared to getting the whole thing almost single handedly. How about you? Are you cooking or what?

Did a couple of drawings yesterday while Holly carved on her homework project (remember, she's a printmaker), I love it when we can both be working on art at the same time.

It has been absolutely ugly here, fog all day and the air quality has been really bad because of the inversion, dreadful for those that get depressed without sun shine. I have to put it out of my mind or it makes me feel anxious. Sure hope we get a storm of some kind to blow this nastiness out of the valley.

I have a few minutes to look at my LJ friends postings, it's the first time in a couple of days so off I go!

The last Snowman

2005-11-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

The last Snowman
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Ok, I think this is my first choice for the card- I think this snow person looks jolly and I like the colors and all.

Today I goofed off most of the day! I did my work out and physical therapy (which is getting harder because the therapist adds stuff each week) and then had to drop something off at my mom's. Well, my dear cousin was going by there also and one thing lead to another so we went out to lunch, chatted for a long time and then went to Costco. We had a nice time and it's a good thing Paul was here to get Tanner off the bus. I felt very irresponsible goofing off all day but don't feel bad about it at all.

Hmm....

By the time I got home Tanner had his homework all finished and we should be able to coast for the evening, nice.

The weather is so yucky here, we are having an inversion of the worst kind, it's been going on for days and the air is thick and soupy, it gets foggy in the early evening and although the sun shines most of the day there is a terrible glare that makes the eyes hurt. We need a storm to blow the nastiness out of the valley but it doesn't look like we've got one coming for at least another 5 days!

Sorry I've not responded to the last batch of comments or e-mail, I just a gad-about these days. I think I'll be home quite a bit tomorrow. Hopefully Holly will be able to come home too. She and Elton are helping in every way they can with his family. Gotta run.....

Another Snow Man

2005-11-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

Another Snow Man
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

According to some peeps here this snowman is a bit spooky, what do you think? I like the snowflakes on the drawing.

Holly and Elton spent the night last night, it is so good to be able to talk face to face and hug one another! Holly and I got a bit of time this morning before they had to leave to go be with all the grieving people. I know it will be a tough day for the family and then the funeral is tomorrow. I don't know when H and E will be back, we know that they need to be there and are putting no pressure on them to be with us. Tanner is so excited to have them around that he's been acting like a goof ball, good thing he's a cute goof ball.

This afternoon we are going to see Harry Potter in the Imax theater, just can't hardly wait! It sure is nice to have the house all clean and today it is sunny so my house is like a warm and sunny haven. My favorite thing about my house is the southern orientation which means in the winter if the sun shines my house is full of brightness!

My houseplants love it too!

Maybe my first choice? A Snowman

2005-11-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

Maybe my first choice? A Snowman
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Well today I've been paying for my slothfulness around the house. I have been neglecting my housework in a big way and today I decided it was time that I get the joint cleaned up. Naturally because it had been so long there was twice as much work than if I kept up on it regularly. Now I'm exhausted. I did a great job and got almost everything done, I even got the laundry finished. Tonight Holly and Elton will be staying here but leaving to be with his grieving family in the morning. After they leave I will clean the office and studio and it will all be finished! I should sleep like a baby tonight since H and E don't even get in until after 11 PM and we'll visit for a while before we go to bed.

Today is Paul's birthday and I've got a cake made for him (another project today), it just needs the hot fudge icing and then he can dig in. We went out for Mexican food tonight and he had fried ice cream there so he should be overly sweetened as he goes to bed tonight.

I made another little collage in my sketchbook last night and it was fun, it will come up in the drawing line up in a week or so. Right now I'm going to go finish the cake and then sit down and draw until time to go get H and E from the airport.

Hope ya all are having a great weekend!

Do you recognize this guy?

2005-11-17T20:54:00.000-07:00

Do you recognize this guy?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is one of my favorites for my Christmas Card design, I like it because it's a bit different.

I'm posting this on Thursday night because I'll be up and out early tomorrow and I know I won't have time. Tonight I'm going to go to bed early. Even though I've been lacking enough sleep lately I've felt sort of revved up and wired, kind of hyper. It's been that way for quite a while and I have no idea why. Anyway I felt like that this morning, like I was really wound up from the minute I woke. I went to my work out and worked out really hard, got my mom and we went to lunch and then Costco but as we were finishing up in Costco I crashed and got really tired and that's how I have been the rest of the day. I'm pretty sure I'll sleep good tonight and I am looking forward to it. I don't know what's up with me but I want to get back to an even keel if you know what I mean.

Anyway, I've finished tonight's drawing and I'm going night night.

Over the hump day

2005-11-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

Over the hump day
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This was a fun little drawing to do, I ended up doing several like this.

I've been having trouble sleeping, it seems like I wake up at 6 no matter when I got to bed and I always have trouble getting to sleep too. Last night we went to bed at 11:30 and I don't know when I finally drifted off but again, I was awake at 6 am. I seem to manage energy wise ok all day but I've noticed that I'm kind of emotional and teary. Hmmm..... Right now I'm up before the boys because I couldn't sleep any longer.

Today after my work out I will be going on the Costco run. I'm amazed at how often I need to do that.

Yesterday while Paul was getting his M.R.I. I sat in the waiting room and did my daily drawing so last night I decided to do something different in my Moleskin and I did a little collage, it was nice for a change. I think doing the collage for Holly got me going and now I'm kind of into them, Fun!

Another Santa

2005-11-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

Another Santa
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This was an attempt to make Santa seem more jolly.

Lots to do today, more than I can accomplish I'm sure.

The first of the Santas

2005-11-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

The first of the Santas
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

My husband thinks he's not jolly enough but I kind of like him, I did a card with Santa last year also.

Green

2005-11-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

Green
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

These are edameme pods. I had them sitting in my lap when the sun hit them and it made a striking picture. Just had to share my image with people.

Christmas Tea?

2005-11-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

Christmas Tea?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I like this one but it doesn't have Christmas-y colors. Did I mention that I will be adding text to any picture I choose? I've got quite a few more coming.

It is windy, rainy and wonderful outside today. Tanner had a great morning and is now off to school, I'm ready to go to the Y and will be thrilled to work out again. I've lost another couple of pounds and I'm feeling pretty good today! After the Y I have loads of running around to do before I come home.

The other night as Tanner was about to go to sleep he said he thought that he and I should make some art to send to Holly so she won't feel so homesick. We did that yesterday, we each made a collage for her and I am hoping to send them this week. It was so fun and I ended up spending quite a bit of time on mine. I'll take a picture of it this evening and then post it for you guys to see.

That's it, gotta run.

Feeling better finally

2005-11-13T11:46:00.000-07:00

Feeling better finally
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Well I don't feel as good as this little fairy but I am way better, thank goodness. This has been a doozy and I don't want to get anything like it again.

Been taking it easy and will continue to do so today because I want to get back to my regular routine tomorrow. It's so frustrating how far behind one gets when illness strikes. Today it's gray and rainy outside, I love it when it's like this. What I love most is how cozy it seems inside when it's cold and blustery outside.

It was fun to watch movies last night and the night before and not worry about doing other things, a nice side to being sick I guess. Last night we watched Master and Commander and the guys loved it. I was drawing as usual but looked up often enough to see what was going on and also got to listen- that's how I usually watch movies.

I plan on watching Super Size Me today, I've heard it will dampen any desire to eat fast food that may still linger. I confess to loving Taco Hell and eating there quite regularly.

Sick and Tired of being Sick!

2005-11-11T16:08:00.000-07:00

Sick and Tired of being Sick!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Went to the Y this morning but didn't work very hard in the pool, then to physical therapy and to lunch. Now I feel so icky that I just came home and tried to take a nap, my head is aching so much I couldn't sleep well and when I cough it aches worse. Honestly, I am so pathetic, I was sure I'd be feeling tops by now. I'm discussed to say the least. I'm going to lay low all weekend and continue on meds and maybe I can get over this. Bleh.

I didn't draw last night because I went out to coffee with a cousin who came to visit. It's a cousin that I grew up with and we were always pretty close, she moved away from Idaho years ago and is now considering moving back. We had fun chatting for a long time and then looking at photos. It was nice to just leave P and T at home watching football.

Ok, just shoot me and put me out of my misery.

The usual busy day, what else?

2005-11-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

The usual busy day, what else?
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I'm beginning to feel better but low on energy, bleh. Oh well, this too shall pass. Tanner is home today so we will try and finish his school project, I will be glad when it's finished and I can clean up our considerable mess in my studio. I'm happy that he is taking much more responsibility for this project than he has for past projects, I'm trying to let him do it himself as much as possible.

We also have parent/teacher conference today. Sign up for spring soccer, have a friend over etc, etc. There is rarely a day that's not filled with lots of things to do in our lives.

Nothing else to say today, I'm in a bit of a muddle mentally this morning.

Christmas Images

2005-11-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Christmas Images
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

As I said, I've been doing Christmas images lately in order to come up with my Christmas card design for this year. There are several coming up in the next week or so but I haven't decided which one to use. This is the first of my ideas, it's not a contender but I still like it.

Feeling really lousy today, my face hurts and my head aches- I have started on antibiotics but it will take a day or two I think. Tanner now has the cough but he's got a long (4 day) weekend so hopefully we can get him feeling better before school next week. Paul seems to be a bit better and had to go to work today regardless, he has out of town clients.

So, things around here are looking pretty bad, the house is a mess and so is my studio because of Tanner's school project. I feel perfectly justified in letting it go for now.

Yesterday I took Holly's print to be framed, I'm so anxious to get it back and have it hanging where I can look at it regularly. I have a couple more beautiful prints that she has done also but I choose to get this one framed because it had the most meaning. I do want to get the other's framed eventually also.

Ok kids, I've got a few things that must be done today and after that I intend to lay low. Thanks for the "get better soon" wishes, I'm working on it!

Holly's Print

2005-11-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

Holly's Print
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

This is the print that Holly sent me! I am going to get it framed very soon, I love it. The rabbits represent her and I and she used the symbol because rabbits are a presence in the night here in Idaho. The electric line between us is our unbreakable bond. The night sky is symbolic of the sky the night we had a very wonderful experience together and I taught both her and Dan some of life's most important truths. On that night so long ago I taught my kids about God's presence in their lives and helped them understand the significance of that incredible truth. I remember the night and how privileged I felt to be the one to teach them but I didn't realize that it had made such an incredible impression on Holly.

The color is actually a deep blue and not black but I couldn't get it to look like blue here. Image size is apx. 12" x 9" The title is, The Night You Gave Me Life

I am so blessed.

Bleh with Bright Spots!

2005-11-08T09:20:00.000-07:00

Bleh with Bright Spots!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Hi there LJ friends. Not feeling better so today I am going to the doc. Geesh, I hate giving in to sickness. Yesterday I stayed busy all day and last night I felt like I'd been drug through a knot hole or something. So today I just give up. I'll bet I can't work out all week, EEK!

I did do a Christmas drawing that I liked last night while we watched Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. A bright spot- I love to draw so much that I can't imagine not drawing every day.

Also worked with Tanner last night on a project for school- making a model of a Bannock Indian sweat house and environment. We did a little research and then set about making the model, I think we got the hard part done anyway.

I got a most wonderful gift in the mail yesterday also. Holly did a beautiful print that is about her and I and the Idaho night sky, she sent along a beautiful description of what she was thinking when she designed it and we both wept as I read it while we were on the phone last night. It is about a particular experience I had with her when she was about 6 or 7 years old, a very precious and spiritual experience that I didn't realize had made such a huge impression on her. Some gifts are so incredibly full of meaning that they are priceless, this is one of them. I feel so blessed to have a daughter like Holly. I will show you the image when I get it photographed.

More Pears and whining

2005-11-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

More Pears and whining
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Good morning. I just got back from driving down to put T-boy on the bus and since it's been raining off and on the last few days the air is pungent with the aroma of sage brush, beautiful! Paul and I are both sick, maybe even need to go to the doctor because I'm pretty sure I have a sinus infection etc. Bleh. I'm most frustrated because I think it would be a mistake to go work out this morning. Drat and double drat!

I've continued to work on Christmas card designs but still not happy with what I've come up with, it won't be long before I put the images up here and I can get some input from you guys.

Holly and I are missing each other a lot, we haven't gone this long ever before without seeing each other. (Last March I got to go to Chicago, remember?) It will be late in December before she and Elton come home for a couple of weeks and that's when they will be getting married. (January 8th I think) I'll bet it will be hard to get some quality time with her at that time. I may have to take another trip to Chicago in the spring. Hmmm... by then I'll be "the mother-in-law", I hope Elton can stand me.

Actually he is a great guy and we seem to be quite compatible, the three of us had a blast last spring when I visited.

So here I am feeling rotten, not able to work out and hating to just sit around- don't you feel sorry for me?

Saturday Pears

2005-11-05T13:05:00.000-07:00

Saturday Pears
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

More pears, I find pears to be a good choice to draw when I don't want to think very hard.

I'm sick, I thought I was over my cold mid week but now I feel like I have a sinus infection and I have a cough too. Boo. So today I'm not doing much, tidied up the house and put some beautiful persimmons in the dehydrator and now I'm letting myself goof off on the computer for a while. Tanner has a friend over and they are content so all is peaceful at the moment.

Drat!

2005-11-04T07:12:00.000-07:00

Drat!
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I didn't sleep well, stuffy nose and uncomfortable all night long, boo. So I'm up before the boys needing a hot cup of coffee.

Tanner is home today because of Parent/Teacher conferences, he and I will be doing some running around together and goofing off.

I've sort of decided that I should skip the work out today since I am feeling a bit under the weather, I suppose I can get some exercise tomorrow if I feel better. I'm just worried that if I go today I may make it worse and then I'll have to lay off longer. Drat!

I've still been drawing, lately working on ideas for my Christmas card, I haven't come up with the perfect one yet. I hope I can get to it this year like I did last year, it was fun to send out a design that I'd done myself.

Leaves again

2005-11-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Leaves again
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

I never even made it to my computer yesterday, just too busy with other stuff!

I had fun going out to lunch with a couple of my friends from the Y and then I had errands and by the time I got home it was time for my little guy to get home.

Oh well, it was a nice day.

I'm just taking the time to post this picture this morning and then I'm off again to do the morning routine as usual.

Walking Tuesday

2005-11-01T06:33:00.000-07:00

Walking Tuesday
Originally uploaded by Sheila Hudson.

Here is another witchy looking woman for today.

Tanner had such a good time last night, he went trick or treating with a few friends and got a load of candy, then the boys did lots of trading. He came home happy and saturated with sugar. I took some pictures of the little group but haven't downloaded them yet.

Today is my walking day with Paul, we always enjoy our walks together.