We always have a blast with the members at the Akron Turner Club in Tallmadge. This is the type of place where "everybody knows your name". Every time we walk into the Turner Club we are welcomed so warmly, and these people just know how to have fun! After coming off of a rough and prolonged winter, I found it fitting to paint a beach concept for the evening. There was a lot of laughter and longing for the summer. I can't wait for our next party. Rumor has it, it may be at

Have kids? Have kid stuff? Ever wonder how to give clothes and toys that no longer have use in your home a new life, and make a few bucks? Round 2 Kids in Cuyahoga Falls allows families the chance to turn in what they are done with and receive either store credit or cash for the goods. They are a family business and strive to offer the best selection of gently used clothing size premie-14/16 boys and girls. In addition they buy and sell equipment, toys, shoes and more. Wit

Since I make my own schedule, I can sometimes accommodate a last minute request. In Brenda's case, her family was traveling in from all over the place and gathering for a ladies' night. When she asked if I could arrange to show up as part of the holiday fun, I was happy to oblige! Brenda had painted with me before and decided this would be the perfect activity for the gals. So we made colorful trees, and performed one of my favorite pastimes in class: baby foot stamps. M

On Monday, December 14th Nola's Salon opened the doors wide for guests that came to paint in honor of a local ministry dear to my heart, Rahab. RAHAB is a ministry devoted to rescuing and restoring women who are trafficked into sexual slavery and exploitation in Akron, Ohio. I had the pleasure of painting with founder Becky Moreland that night, along with many other friends that wanted to give back through this event. My home church, Grace Church, partners with this ministry

Kelci and Bree from Bumble Bree Art joined teams with Heidi Bogue of Crossfit HighGear for a "Paint and Plank" event. We started off the evening by getting pumped up with a Crossfit workout, mellowed out with a yoga class, then transitioned into our painting portion. Our refreshments for the evening were quite nutritious and served at the Pit Stop Cafe at Crossfit HighGear. It was the kind of party that appeals to all the senses. Endorphins were high, relaxation was infused a

Fairlawn Country Club was lush green with landscaping at its peak when Bumble Bree Art held a painting class by the pool. Some of the guests had never even picked up a brush and some had a wealth of art experience. This is the right painting for that occasion, since the wine glass and bottle painting can be beautiful just following the steps or customized with climbing grapevines and shading. Our painters did exceedingly well and stayed for the sunset. I was delighted tha

Over the past year I have been mentoring a friend of mine, Kelci Rayl to be a part of my artist team at Bumble Bree Art. I am happy to announce that she officially held her first, solo Wine and Paint party last evening, and it was a success! I knew it would be. Kelci is a talented and personable artist with a bright future at Bumble Bree Art. I am so excited for her and for our partnership. Check out these pictures from her first party. Great job Kelci! #Paintingclass #winepa

Summer has been busy with beautiful outdoor painting parties. For the recent event at the Stillwood Pavilion, Alyssa Naragon was the hostess. She is a repeat costumer of mine, and has become a fantastic artist. Alyssa is a pro when it comes to hostessing. She welcomes everyone, is an amazing cook and coordinates this kind of event to connect with her neighbors. The subject of the evening was a rustic window with a vintage bike. The most inspirational part of the evening wa

Preparing is a huge part of being an art instructor. Do I have enough brushes? Easels? Paint? I run over my supply list a hundred times before a class. I take notes. I take inventory. Almost like packing for a trip, planning for paint class is crucial. Though I've never forgotten an essential, there are always situations where I have to improvise. Sometimes it's immediate choices like leaving out a step based on the time frame. Other times, it's something done in advance fo