Wish I Had Your Talent

Filled sketchbooks on top shelves

In the last 22 years I have filled dozens upon dozens of sketchbooks. At last count I've filled 60 plus books. I've worked hard at perfecting my craft. My sketchbooks mean more to me than any painting I’ve ever done. I am not afraid to try new mediums, techniques, subjects and I can see tangible growth in my work. Within the covers of these books I can see my life. Here is where I am free to express myself with words and images. The pages contain the ups and downs of my life. I treasure these books.

Lighthouse Sketch 1992

Next week Danny Gregory and a film crew will be at my house to film my klass for Sketchbook Skool (the spelling isn't a typo). Danny thought it would be helpful to have students see some of my earliest sketchbooks. I had to go deep into the closet to pull out one of my first watercolor sketchbooks but I found one from 22 years ago. YIKES...this is a humbling experience! What a powerful reminder of how far I've come. I can honestly say to anyone who says "wish I had you talent or gift" ... I wasn't very talented or gifted 22 years ago.  It is also very clear how much I improved when I found a teacher who nurtured and encouraged me. Their teaching influence is very notable. I didn't make this journey alone...I was guided and nurtured along the way by teachers I admired and trusted. During their years of instruction I can see my greatest growth. I owe them a debt of gratitude! 

Lighthouse Sketch 2013

The first page of a new sketchbook feels a little unnerving and the last page feels a little sad...like the end of a friendship. With each new sketchbook I wonder where it will lead me, and what lessons I will learn along the way. 

I can hardly wait to share my sketchbooks, experience and knowledge. 

Happy Sketching!
Brenda
  

What a Difference a Year Makes!

April 2013

To my fellow artist and friends,

 It’s been exactly a year since my son Daniel had his final treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma...an update is in order. 

When I think back over those many months of treatment and the emotional journey I am glad to look forward! During the difficult months we were lifted up by your kind words, emails, phone calls and prayers. Today the doctors say Daniel is in remission…Praise God! They won’t use the word “cured” until he is free from cancer for five years. When Daniel finished chemo he was ready to move forward and never look back. Much to his dismay that is not the life of someone who’s had cancer.  He still has side effects from the chemo, doctor appointments, tests, more tests, scans… At times this depresses him. 

April 2014

Daniel is enjoying being out of school, working hard as a mechanical engineer, buying their first home and all the responsibilities of home ownership. 

Heidi is very busy with Joshua and Nevaeh, working at home, church, Mom's Club, teaching the kids... She's one of the most natural parents I’ve ever known (I could of learned a lot from her when I was raising my boys). The big news around their home is...they are expecting another child!

Life has its highs and lows and we are not immune from fear, pain and sorrow.  But, I feel grateful beyond words for blessings in life. 

Do not squander time...it's what life is made of.

     Brenda