Best Birthday, Part 2

The next morning, I was supposed to go to Emily's singing recital. I was very much looking forward to it, having never heard her perform solo before, BUT, she had laryngitis the day before, and couldn't hit her high notes at all, so she had to cancel. We'll look forward to a private concert for the family sometime soon!

So, it was off for an art day with Deirdra! First stop, Blackbird Farms, the lovely home and farm of our new friend from Cloth and Clay Dolls, Nancy!

Although the farm is close in, with all these gorgeous views all around you feel like you're way out in the country.

Two of Nancy's horses, Nellie and Cochise.

What a handsome fellow!

Nancy's studio - a delight to the eyes, filled with the wonderful dolls she has made or collected over the years.

All the modern appliances.

Warm and cozy feline friends.

Nancy's artistry with needle felting.

Below, Nancy shares the secret of her birthday doll...

I've got my eyes on you!

Wouldn't the bunkhouse down by the barn be a perfect space for art workshops? Good idea, Nancy!

We say thank you to Nancy for such a perfect afternoon of sharing enthusiasm for what we love to do! We look forward to visiting again soon!

After visiting with Nancy we went back home in time to see Emily all dolled up for her senior prom. Lovely!

As soon as she was off, we were off again, too. Portland artist Jesse Reno was showing his works in town - we were just going to see his work there, but after Deirdra talked with him on the phone, we were invited to his house! What a privilege. Jesse is one of those people who lives, eats, and breathes art. He shares the home and studio with his partner Lana, herself an amazing textile and mixed-media artist. Every wall, every corner of the house had something intriguing to see and ponder. I didn't take many pictures - I think I was too mesmerized just looking at the work, layer upon layer of color, texture, and symbolic imagery. Below is a detail of one of Jesse's large diptychs.

Jesse is very articulate about his work - a pleasure to listen to. I have heard that he is a wonderful teacher - I'd love to sign up for one of his workshops! Once upon a time (23 years ago?) I painted large and free - maybe someday I'll find my way back. Thanks to Jesse for sharing his time with us - it was incredibly inspiring.

After a full day of taking in visual stimulation, a body needs sustenance. Lana and Jesse suggested a nearby Mexican restaurant, which turned out to be La Calaca Comelona. ¡Qué sorpresa! It just happens to be a restaurant I'd been very eager to try out!

Like tourists in a foreign land, we snapped photos inside and out.

Our lovely hostess greeted us at the entrance.

Images of Frida and my favorite color combinations on the walls - it was just like home!

Thanks for such an amazing art day, Deirdra! So fun to celebrate my birthday this way!

When I got home I reflected on the day. We had been to two very different environments, and I loved both of them! But it made me ask myself:

Am I some of this or some of that, or somewhere in between? For now, perhaps I am only