In the wee small hours of the morning ...

Upon being woken up by our pup the other morning ... and I should say "early" morning ... I found that I could not fall back to sleep. Didn't have the heart to put him back in his crate - so, to the laundry basket he tucked himself, as I did in my studio ... there is just something about being an artist that allows no realism of orderliness in one's schedule - My head is saying, "Get back to bed! The kiddos will be up in three hours!" - - while my soul is screaming, "Paint, Woman, Paint!" So .... I painted ...

Gosh ... that felt good!

Art is a collaboration between God and the artist, and the less the artist does the better.

~André Gide

Kudos, Honey!

Gals - just had to share with you the dinner that my dear, loving, chef-of-a-hubby prepared for our Valentine's Day (yes, it was a whole weekend worth of cupid!) ...

Marinated Venison Filet
-wrapped with Prosciutto and topped with a HOMEMADE chive and garlic butter
(yep - you heard me right ... he even made his own butter!)

Savory Skillet Potatoes
(made in a cast iron skillet - so you know they're good!)

Fresh Green Beans
-sauteed in herbs, butter & garlic

The meal was just exquisite! He truly has missed his calling ...

Well done, Sweetie!!

and ... thank you. :)

I was 32 when I started cooking; up until then, I just ate.

~ Julia Child

Sharing Rosey Hearts & Warm Hugs ...

Valentine's Day is adored in our home ... so Cupid usually stops by to spread a little love ...Valentine's Day Breakfast ...

Strawberry Cream Stuffed French Toast

Maple Sausage

Orange Juice

Coffee (for me!)

Then ... the children hunt for their Valentine's treats!

After the presents were unwrapped (just a little something along with a small box of chocolates) and a few stolen chocolates savored ... my daughter was off to school with her Valentine's Box in tow ...

It's lasted four years now ... much to her chagrin. She was to make a new one this year, as she has grown tired of its design, but strep throat set in ... and the stomach flu bite two others ... so, we sort of lost track of time. It's been fun ... BUT, we were all in good health & good spirits to celebrate and enjoy our Valentine's Day Weekend. Thank the Dear Lord!

Happy Valentine's Day to all ...

my husband, children, family & friends ... and YOU!

And, Happy Anniversary to my in-laws ...

... 39 Years!!

Now, ending this post, I toast my daughter with our favorite quote ...

I don't understand why Cupid was chosen to represent Valentine's Day. When I think about romance, the last thing on my mind is a short, chubby toddler coming at me with a weapon.

-author unknown

This always leaves us giggling ... (smile)