What do you think Santa does in the off-season? I’m betting he takes a relaxing tropical vacation somewhere to unwind after the holidays. Though Santa’s definitely enjoying his post-Christmas downtime, he did make an exception for me last weekend. He was kind enough to make a special trip from the North Pole to my house for our annual marathon Jolly Old Elf photo shoot. (Santa may be a whiz at toymaking and overnight delivery, but those aren’t his only talents… he’s also a great model!) First, I want to send out a big “Thank You” to everyone who helped us…

I’ve been sitting here in front of my computer this evening wondering what to write to you this week. Unfortunately, I’m having a really hard time keeping my mind on the written word – but I have a really good excuse. I’ve been very distracted lately, deep in thought, seeking inspiration for my next painting in the Jolly Old Elf series. You see, this Saturday Santa will be coming to my house to pose for this year’s paintings. But I still don’t have all the props I need! That’s right – Santa’s coming Saturday for his photo session, and I’m…

All my life, my art, my painting, has been the way I express myself best and communicate my feelings. When I was a girl, I was very quiet on the outside. There was a lot going on inside my head, but to everyone else, I was just a shy little kid. If I liked you, the easiest way for me to express it was through my art. I would probably draw a portrait for you or maybe even make an attempt at a needlepoint gift (though I was really awful at that!). Sometimes I would even create something out of…