Wordless Weekend from Silver Falls

TGIF

I am so glad that it's Friday! I just got off the phone and he said we're at 16 days and counting! I am so excited about my trip! I am going to have so many photos when we are done, he said we'll be able to go out several days. And you know how I've been freaking out about so much to do? Well, I'm making daily lists and checking the things off one by one. It's calming to lay it out like that.

I don't have a lot to say this morning, my list for today is floating in my head, and I have a couple of things to do before I leave for work. I hope it's an amazing Friday for you all!

Time for a break...

I so badly need a break. And that will come when I go to Utah. I will be going on the 22nd, so it's not far away. Until then... a million things to do. This weekend I'm going to a paper store to get an education. I'll be starting to make art journals/ scrapbooks for my shop and I want the paper to be able to withstand most anything! I will feel like I'm in heaven, wandering around a paper store.

Also, after our trip to Silver Falls, we drove back on some back roads and I'm just aching to go back so I can take some pictures of some awesome old buildings and barns! Dad has been brainstorming about where we might go on our photo day there. I'm glad I will be there a week because we don't have to be out all one day... we can take chunks of time here and there depending on what he has going on and how he is feeling. And while I'm there, I will gather some of his photos to bring back so I can post them periodically!

Of course, I'm really looking forward to seeing my brothers, sister in laws, and their children! I told my sister in law the other day that I want to be the totally awesome hippie chick aunt to her girls. Oh, that reminds me, something else I need to do... I'm taking my excess craft supplies down there for them. Anything to inspire, you know?

I am still in talks with the wedding photographer and hopefully something will work out there soon. Well, after my trip. Want to hear something funny? My husband was going to get me direct flights when I go see my dad, but I told him that I really love layovers, so I have one each way! I am thrilled about that. I'll have my camera in hand and wander! 2 1/2 hours in Denver, 1 in San Francisco. Yay!!

I hope for a wonderful Thursday for you all!

I'd like you to meet Kevin!

What is your craft of choice, and how long have you been doing that?

Airbrush, I have been working professionally forn sixteen years.

How did you get started?

I attend classes at the Indianalois Art Center. Ater finishing the course,I practiced three to four hours a day,after one month I decided to try and sell my work. I set up an easel in my front yard to attract attention within one hour I made my first sale, after one month I decided to make my living as an airbrush artist. I traveled from Elyria Ohio down to Florida selling my work along the way.

What is your inspiration?

I give credit to the Great Creator that blessed me with my talent. My Earthly inspirations are many, I would have to say the most important is Julia Cameron author of the"Artist's way" Her book motivated me to put my talent into action, and to have the courage,and confidence in myself to forge ahead.

How long have you been on Etsy?

One month! I am very new, so I am in the learning stages, I have much work to do. I guess the work never stops as I believe one must constantly evolve,and improve in order to survive.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Hopefully successful enough to employ several airbrush artists. Possibly expanding the business to include screen printing of my airbrush designs.

What is the most challenging thing about having an online business?

Getting my shop noticed! If people don't know you are there you have no business.I have found this to be more challenging than I had thought it would be. I am constantly promoting, networking,and learning new ways to promote my Etsy shop.

What is the most rewarding thing about having an online business?

Being able to work from my home.This cuts the cost of rent on a brick,and mortar shop.That money can be used to buy stock,sundries,and to promote my business. It also cuts travel expenses.

How does your internet business fit into your life? Is it your job or do you have another job as well?

This is it for me.I am a dedicated full time airbrush artist,online business person. I feel fortunate to be able to dedicate the time it takes to make a successful business.

When you are not crafting, how do you spend your time?

I spend my time with my Father,I like to make him laugh,and do things for him that he can't do for himself,as he is seventy seven years old. I also like to read good books, and cook.

Are there any links you’d like to share?

This is my Etsy shop http://www.fantasyair4u.etsy.com/

This is my instructional video http://www.youtube.com/kevsart

Here is a link to my flickr slideshow for anyone that would like to see my work. http://flickr.com/photos/34598641@N05/sets/72157612805911833/show/

Click on any of the photos for more information! Thank you Kevin!

A tribute to Dad

So... I've been planning this post for a couple of weeks. I've had some glitches, the main one being snail mail. But finally, all pieces are here and I'm ready.

The top two photos are taken by my sister in law Jai. She has recently started pursuing photography as a hobby. Dad has offered to take her out on a photo day and help her to see things through a photographer's eyes. Who knows, they might wait til I get there to go. So... Jai sent some pictures. These are two of the ones she sent me, I will be sharing others as time goes on. Here's what Jai had to say.

"To my father in law who gave me inspiration to take the pictures. The beauty of the sunsets represents who he is to me as a person. The snowy mountains are beautiful to me so I chose these pictures for him as well."

Dad... you've inspired me as well. You have taught me that life's too short and if you don't take opportunities, they may not come around again. And as far as photography goes, you've taught me to snap away... and I've begun to look for those sunrises and sunsets that you cherish so much. Each time I go out to take photos, I want to share them with you. And I know that you are right there with me, in my heart.

We really appreciate you, Dad... I just wanted you to know that. Now send me some pictures so I can share more of yours as well!

Silver Falls...

Yesterday we hiked at Silver Falls. We hiked a 5 1/2 mile loop that included 7 waterfalls. Each waterfall was gorgeous, but seeing them all in one hike was more than amazing. I should have some new photos up in my shop soon... photos and photo pendants. And some coasters.

Tomorrow, after quite a delay, will be the special post I was talking about last week. And since my trip is in 3 weeks, my class will be offered after that. So hopefully the 2nd week of March. I hope I have some people interested by then. If you are, please email me at robyns_art@live.com

In high school, my best friend's name was Jason. Last time I saw him was at the 10 year reunion. Well, next year is our 20 year reunion, and Jason's wife contacted me on facebook. He has been looking for me. So hopefully, he and I will talk soon!

There is so much to do before my trip. I tend to get overwhelmed. So today, I should make a little list and just start getting stuff done. But while I'm in Utah.... I'm not going to worry about anything :-). I will have someone here to hang my stuff in the art show, and someone here who can ship out anything that's ordered. Life is good.

Happy Monday... think of all the wonderful possibilities of this week!

It's going to be a great day!

First of all, just so you know, I'm offering free shipping in my etsy shop starting today, through next Saturday!

Now... for my exciting news! I am dragging the family out to go hiking today at Silver Falls. I will be taking tons of pictures and posting them soon!

My dad should be going home from the hospital today, and hopefully he will continue to recuperate because I'm going there in the end of February!!! I almost flew there the other day when he was in the hospital. But then I started thinking. I'd rather not just swoop in when he is very ill. I want to go at a time when I can spend some time with him!!! So, I'll be there a week, and if he is up to it we will go on a photo taking day. What an amazing opportunity for me to be able to learn from him. I have a lot of planning to do. And I will do my best to post at least 2-3 times that week.

I hope you all have an amazing Sunday.