Trying to finish a second copy of this painting.....

This is a oil painting I completed before leaving my last school.  I presented it to my Educational Assistant Debbie as thanks for all the support and hard work she provided over my five years at the school. 

My second attempt is almost completed, with the exception of the moss roses.  I am procrastinating its completion as I am pondering a change of flowers......but I'm not sure what I would use in their place.

This painting was  presented to my teachering partner upon my leaving my last school.  I learned much of what I know about Learning Disabilities from this lovely lady.  We find many mentors as we travel  our various journeys, if we are open to them and thier knowledge.  Jill was certainly one of mine. 

Speaking of mentors, this is an oil painting of my first teacher mentor when I began my teaching career in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan in 1985.  This is my first and only attempt in painting a portrait.  I think it is high time I try my hand at it again sometime soon.

I am also in the process of completing a larger oil painting of two calves in a field of orchard grass.  The Jersey-cross calf has turned out quite nice, but the white faced Herford is causing my stress.  I am having difficulty getting the shading on his face just right and where it is white it is puffy and odd shaped on one side.  I will post both pictures in the morning and will post progress pictures as I go.

Now, as I am trying to blog my artistic journays, I will have to be more diligent in the area of my photgraphic skills....particularly in the area of taking before, during and after pictures.  It definitely adds to to the story.  But, at this point, I think about taking picutures after the fact.  I have to curb my need for "immediate gratification" and to jump in and get it done.  Patience is a virture and one that I need to practice.

More tomorrow.  Good night.