A Mermaid's Diary

All A's and B's.... WHOO HOO!!!!

2011-07-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

Sam is home for the summer.... Just got a letter from the dean.... all A's and B's again this semester! Big ole life, here he comes! :)

OMG....

2011-07-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

New gallery space... Donna Burgess Gallery

SLACKNESS....
I didn't realize I was this far behind... my last post was in January 2010? LOL!

I have been totally slack in tending to my website... it's just one of those things that I lay in bed at night and think about and always throw it over on to tomorrow. I AM gonna get on it!!!!! Please don't give up on me.

FACEBOOK....
I have two facebook pages and I hope that you will join both....

Wendy Grant Prentice is more of a personal page, but if interested... join in!

Wendy Prentice Mermaid Art is my new art gallery page.... PLEASE 'LIKE' if you are a facebooker!
www.facebook.com/WendyPrenticeMermaidArt

BIG NEWS.....

I am no longer at Artists at Gulf Place.
It was the best 5 years of my art life and I will miss my artists peeps, regulars and the atmosphere more than anyone could imagine. It was one heck of a ride and I leave there with a whole lotta love for a whole lotta people and memories I will cherish FOREVER!

But I am moving on.... with a whole lotta excitement for my art future!

In the process of trying to secure a retail space/lease for 'Mermaid Lulu's', things moved a little slow and I found myself on the doorstop of the one and only, Donna Burgess... fabulous artist and now fabulous friend. Little did we know upon meeting that we went WAY back, but that's another story for another day.... but the connection divine. :)

So.... I am now setting up shop and studio workspace with Donna Burgess Gallery for at least the summer. If you are in the area, please visit us at Grand Blvd. (on the west side of Orvis).

LIZ'S WHERE Y'AT...
I am still with Liz in Mandeville! This week made two years!!!!
If you are in the New Orleans area, please visit the restaurant and gallery.
2500 Florida Street
Mandeville, LA

Planting Peace UPDATE

2010-01-16T06:54:00.000-08:00

Planting Peace Update

Two of the four Planting Peace orphanages in Haiti sustained structural damage and all of the Planting Peace children have been moved into one home.

Planting Peace is rationing their food and water to the children within the orphanage because it is unknown as to when they will be able to receive more food and water.

Jon and Roman, the two UF students who have been following Aaron for the last year while working on a documentary are safe! Jon is now back in the states and Roman is in the Dominican Republic awaiting a flight home. Thank you God, Jesus, Buddha and the Holy Ghost for getting them home safe.

John Dieubon, co-founder of Planting Peace, has spent the days following the quake picking up bodies from the streets of Haiti and transporting the bodies to an area close to the hospital. Please pray for John as he goes through these days. I cannot imagine his pain and sorrow....
I love you John.

Planting Peace NEEDS your help. Please donate today! MONEY IS NEEDED... thank you, please!

Please go to the Planting Peace website at www.plantingpeace.org to learn more and to donate!

With love and peace... wendy

Planting Peace Fundrasier...

2010-01-16T06:49:00.000-08:00

Rainn Wilson, of the hit television show The Office is auctioning off a one of a kind, special T-Shirt to benefit Planting Peace.
Check it out!
CLICK HERE

THANK YOU RAINN!!!

PLEASE HELP HAITI!

2010-01-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

Haiti and Aaron update....
Aaron is not in Haiti.... he had a ticket to go yesterday but for whatever reason (divine intervention?), he did not go.....
His friends and documentary crew, Jon and Roman from the University of Florida did go. As of this writing, Aaron has not been able to get in touch with them, John or anyone from his orphanages. Please pray for Aaron and for his people.

PLEASE HELP AARON HELP HAITI!
Aaron has 1.5 million doses of medicine in Haiti but needs to get water and food to those in need as soon as possible. Please make a donation today at www.plantingpeace.org

THANK YOU!
With love and peace,

Wendy

A New Year....

2010-01-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

In the twenty (close to 30) something years that I have smoked, not once has quitting ever been my new year's resolution..... not once! I love and NEED my Virginia Slim Ultra Lights too much to give them up just because it is a new year! BUT, drum roll please..... (or those that know me that have not heard.... sit down and take a big ole swig of vodka).... I quit smoking!!!! On November 7th of this year, I did it! .... no planning, no quitting aids, no nothing... cold turkey and out of nowhere! I was smoking a cigarette, put it out and said, "That's it." I think I may have had a little divine intervention or something. It certainly wasn't on my 'to do' list!

Had I been smart about it, I would have made some 'I can do it' bets with my loved ones.... They would have gone in high, because not a one of them thought I could ever quit smoking. Gosh, I could have probably gotten a new car out of it or something.

Here are my stats.....

Your Quit Date is:Saturday, November 07, 2009 at 2:15:00 AM
Time Smoke-Free:55 days, 6 hours, 3 minutes and 31 seconds
Cigarettes NOT smoked:1934
Lifetime Saved:14 days, 18 hours

The 1,934 cigarettes 'not smoked' freaks me out. I didn't even know I had smoked that many in 20 plus years!

At the same time, I also did a detox... no sugar, dairy, wheat, rice, meat, caffeine, carbs, beans nor gummy worms. I was on green vegetables, sweet potatoes and water for 31 days! It wasn't a weight thing. Actually, I didn't lose any weight..... thanks to the sweet potatoes and my only dairy, organic butter. I did the detox for health reasons.... at the time, I had been suffering from a headache for three months. I am now four months into the headache and have had numerous CT Scans, MRIs, MRAs, neurologists, specialists, gallons of blood work, my own pharmacy, quit smoking, did a detox, etc.... and I STILL have a damn headache.

Didn't mean to go into the whole headache thing.... just wanted to share that I had 'not smoked' 1934 cigarettes!

LOVE AND PEACE IN THE NEW YEAR!
Wendy

The door to peace....

2009-08-22T04:38:00.001-07:00

"The Door to Peace"
$300

Peace Chair....

2009-08-22T04:35:00.001-07:00

A new peace chair.... enjoy!
$250.00

Aaron on Montel....

2009-08-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

If you missed Aaron on Montel Williams this morning, here you go!
You will need to fast-forward to 64 minutes and 23 seconds !!!

CLICK HERE !

Let the beauty....

2009-07-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

Let the beauty we love be what we do - Rumi

Aaron on Current TV...

2009-05-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

You know I am proud!

http://current.com/items/90088106_stars-for-planting-peace.htm

This is Current TV footage from the Planting Peace benefit held by the cast of Reno 911 and The Office actor, Rainn Wilson.

Mama Bear is very, very proud!

I LOVE YOU AARON!

Just an update....

2009-05-20T05:08:00.000-07:00

Wow... where does all the time go? It has been two months since I last posted... and I thought I was keeping up!

NEW GALLERY....

This past month, I opened a second gallery space at Father Fuds Market in Destin. The market is located between Fudpuckers Restaurant and Sunsations Beach Shop. (Or better yet... directly in front of Home Depot!) The market has a variety of handcrafted goods and two of my favorite people are in with me... Mershell and Mary Jane.

Mershell is my nutty artist/musician friend from Tallahassee. He paints big, bold, bright and beautiful paintings.... flowers, fish and beach houses. He has a website, but I am not going to post it here because it sucks. Well, the truth is, it is still in the making but for whatever reason, he still has the template up and running for appliance repair. Mershell, ????????.

Mary Jane is also in with me at Artists at Gulf Place. She is the master of all recycled children's art and accessories.

If you are in the area, PLEASE come check us out.

Artists at Gulf Place....

We had an awesome spring break and we are looking forward to the Memorial Day weekend kickoff to summer. We have lots of events planned for the summer... music, special guest artist, etc. Check out our website for the latest! www.artistsatgulfplace.com
And to those of you who came and played with us during Spring Break.... THANK YOU!

Gulf Place will be hosting the first annual "Beach Idol" on June 13th. If you sing, give us a call. First place prize is $1000! Woo Hoo!!! This is a charity event and a portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the animal shelter of Walton County.

World famous henna tattoo artist, Rosemary Kimble will be back for the first two weeks of June.... a short break and then she will be returning for July and August. This girl is unbelievable.... very cool tattoos! If you are here at the beach... come see her!

LIFE....

Same old and fabulous!

love and peace my friends.

OH YEAH... ONE MORE THING....

I am now on Facebook. I don't know why and I have not figured it out.
I think you have to send me a 'friends request' to get there (??????). If you know what you are doing and want to join in, send me one of those little request emails!

Again, love and peace!
wendy

Hula Girls...

2009-03-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

I will be putting my new hula girls on my site today... Yes, they have legs and feet.... A first for me!!!!

Enjoy....

WaterColor Show....

2009-03-25T05:21:00.000-07:00

I am at a loss for words, as there are no words to do justice the beauty of the WaterColor show and all that filled my heart and soul as I took in the day. It was overwhelming....

Thanks to all that came by and thanks to all who shared how "my dad" blog touched them.

And a BIG special kissy-kissy thanks to Mershell for setting up his bold, bright and beautiful paintings next to mine... for being a great friend... for bringing me new friends... for bringing breakfast, lunch, water and snacks.... for embracing and tending to my emotional side... for making me laugh... for all of your love and support.

IT WAS A GREAT DAY TO BE AN ARTIST!!!!!!!!

Another Peace Chair....

2009-02-04T04:26:00.000-08:00

Another "Peace Chair"..... I had such a great time transforming that old office chair into a "peace chair" that I painted another one! I purchased this chair at a garage sale some months ago... actually, it came from the same woman that had the red Samsonite luggage that I transformed. As with the last peace chair and the luggage, I doubt this is what the previous owner envisioned for it, but here she is!

THE PEACE CHAIR.....

2009-02-04T04:14:00.000-08:00

The "Peace Chair"

This is one of my favorite pieces.... literally!
My son found this once 1970's dusty blue vinyl office chair in a "free to a good home"neighbors roadside pile. I am not sure if this is what the previous owners had in mind, but here she is!

I am back!

2008-12-29T07:47:00.000-08:00

It has been forever… the ‘blog thing’ seemed like a great idea, but truth is, I never have time to write, and when I do, well…. I forget all about it!

However, it has been an exciting end to the year 2008!

MY HERO....
My son, Aaron, and actor, Rainn Wilson (of my new favorite TV show, The Office), coupled up to do a Planting Peace benefit in Hollywood in early December. Very exciting!!! CNN covered the event and aired the footage on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If you missed it, well of course I have the link! LINK

What made it even more special was my youngest son, William, flew to Hollywood (ALONE!) to take part in the event. He felt like a movie star…. Stayed in the penthouse of the Radisson Hotel overlooking the hills of Hollywood, ordered room service, took advantage of the ‘free’ cokes on the 18th floor, hung out on the set of 'The Office', had lunch with the cast, went to the Planting Peace event at the W Hotel and took over 500 pictures in 4 days! Of course it didn’t go off without incident… on the way home his connecting flight in Houston was canceled and he had to stay in a hotel for the night (ALONE!). He went back to the airport the next morning and realized he had lost his wallet and ID. Talk about a meltdown!

PICTURES...

Will and Aaron at 'the event' !

Aaron being interviewed by CNN !

Will and Rainn on the set of ' The Office'

Will and Slash

Gallery News….
We had our Annual Holiday Open House at Artists at Gulf Place over Thanksgiving weekend… it was our best yet! Before we ever opened on the first day, I cut the tip of my finger off with a pair of school scissors! Yes, the school scissors that barely cut paper! Being the drama queen that I am, I saw stars, thought I was going to faint, then thought I was going to bleed to death, blah, blah, blah. Then a trip to the emergency clinic to have it sewn back on. Thirty days later, I am still in stitches.

Despite that minor setback (major at the time) and a few downpours of rain, it was a whole lot of fun! Santa came by fire truck, several outsider artists showed their wares, live music, food and of course, not a holiday party without the bar! If you missed it this year, please come next year!

The Mermaid’s Palace…
I spent a couple of weeks in October remodeling the Mermaid’s Palace. If you are planning a trip to the beach, let me know! The view is awesome!
Here’s the link to the VRBO site. We are offering a discount to all of our friends… you included!

HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GREAT CHRISTMAS AND BEST WISHES IN THE NEW YEAR!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS,
WENDY AND JAMES

Christmas orders...

2008-10-01T03:41:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.... Already????

Just wanted to remind you to get your Christmas 'special orders' in soon. I have already started on my list! Remember, if you would like a 'happy sign' I can paint whatever saying you would like on it.... in most colors. Check out the "Happy Signs" gallery on my site for samples.

Also, if you want any of my printed items (coasters, prints and mouse pads), please order soon, as quanities are limited.

Within the next couple of days I will also be adding some hand painted mermaid and flamingo ornaments to my site. Quanities are definitely limited as those little things took me FOREVER to paint! They are really cute and I loved painting them, but again, FOREVER!

Much love,
Wendy

Not just another day at the beach!

2008-09-18T06:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, we had a humpback whale off our coast. This week we had a flamingo show up!

The beach is full of tiny miracles.

What a Great Day to be an Artist!

2008-09-15T04:43:00.001-07:00

This weekend we had our "Fence of Flags" showing at Artists at Gulf Place. We had over 100 painted American flags from the creative and colorful locals of South Walton County. (Actually, some not-so-locals as well.) The flags were spectacular and the message very sweet. I could hardly look at all of the flags without getting a lump in my throat nor without remembering what 9-11 meant to me, how it made me feel, how it made my loved ones feel and how this country came together in a moment of crisis and sorrow. I couldn't look at the flags without thinking about all of the men and women in our armed forces and the families that are at home supporting them. It was certainly one of those moments!

We had so many people stop by to purchase.... all with a story of what the flag and/or 9-11 meant to them. 100% of all money collected from the sale of the flags will be donated to the SW Fire Department in appreciation of all they have given to our community and in loving memory of the 343 firefighters that lost their lives on 9-11-01. THANK YOU SWFD. Thank you flag painters!

And if that wasn't enough to make it a great day to be an artist, we also had a mini art show of sorts at the gallery as well as the Southern Breeze Wine Festival in our amphitheater area.

Mershell, my BESTEST art friend from Tallahassee and Donna, my BESTEST c0-mermaid painter friend from right around the corner, set up their displays of art in our 'grassy area'. IT WAS BEAUTIFUL... Both of them paint these big, bright, happy, awesome paintings. It looked fabs!

The weather was perfect... windy, sunny and bright. People were happy and the wine was pouring!

THANKS to all who participated! Thanks to all who made it a great day to be an artist!

Television Debut!

2008-09-10T06:06:00.000-07:00

In appreciation and memory of the firefighters that lost their lives on 9-11-01, Artists at Gulf Place has created the "fence of flags". These flags have been created by the ever so creative and colorful artists of South Walton County and will be displayed at our gallery for the month of September. All proceeds from the sale of these flags will go to benefit the SWFD.

So, yesterday, the local news came to the gallery and did this piece. (The video is on the right side of the page)
http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/28097669.html

If you are in the area, please stop by.... this fence of flags is spectacular and the message special.

Aaron's people in Haiti NEED YOUR HELP!!!

2008-09-04T03:33:00.000-07:00

In the last two weeks, Haiti has been hit really hard by the hurricanes.... making a very horrific situation even worse.

Aaron is grearing up to send 1 million treatments of deworming medication as well as vitamins and food aide. In a country already plagued by hunger, Planting Peace will distribute these medications in an effort to prevent additional malnutrition and starvation issues relating to the floods. The constant rainfall and flooding will put this second hungriest country one step closer to wide spread famine.

Please help Aaron help 'his' people.
You can make a donation to Planting Peace through his website
http://www.plantingpeace.org/

WITH ALL OF MY LOVE AND ALL OF MY APPRECIATION,
Aaron's mom

The Ironing Board Fish....

2008-08-28T06:18:00.000-07:00

This is the crazy Ironing Board Fish of my dear and precious friend, Brownie Boswell.... aka "Brown Man". He got this crazy idea in his head and traveled far and wide to find a used ironing board for his recycled art creation. Of course, he could have purchased a new ironing board at the Dollar General for eleven bucks, but it wouldn't have been the same. So after scouring roadside trash piles and all of the thrift stores within a 50 mile radius he finally found one in a garage sale in Fort Walton Beach. And here she (he?) is.... ironing board, rakes and a paint lid fish eye!

Brown Man also carves fish and birds out of cypress logs salvaged from the rivers of South Walton. Many of his pieces are embellished with recycled tools, lawn tools, license plates, well... you name it! His studio (garage) is unbelievable... he has piles and piles of treasures (trash) and a wife that doesn't mind!

If you are interested in seeing more of Brown Man's pieces, please visit his gallery at Artists at Gulf Place in Santa Rosa Beach or the Artists at Gulf Place website at www.artistsatgulfplace .com . You may also email him at brownmanfish@yahoo.com .

He is the bomb!

Be a mermaid....

2008-08-27T17:04:00.000-07:00

Oh, to be a mermaid...

I have been wanting to build and paint a mermaid photo cutout for some time! Actually, it has been on my list of things to do for at least a year. I just kept moving it over to tomorrow's "to do" list (along with 50 other things!). And then my friend Brandy said she needed one for a party... and she needed it the next week. So, wah lah !

She is now at my gallery, Artist at Gulf Place. Please stop by and have your picture taken!

"The" Suitcase....

2008-08-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

Several months ago, I found a great suitcase at an estate sale... a red, plastic Samsonite in mint condition. I am not sure how much I paid for it, but I do know that it was seven dollars for two suitcases, a side table and a chair... all of which I have already painted or plan to paint!

The suitcase had been well taken care of by it's previous owner.... newspaper lined the inside and tissue filled the pockets. :) I have no idea of the places it has traveled. All I know for certain is that it belonged to a lady named Helen in Reading, Pa. I can just see her now. Red? I know she was something!

I could hardly wait to get my paint to it, and I had a great time doing so. I have only traveled with it once.... a short vacation to the beach (not even out of town!). It weighs a ton! We have come a long way baby!

Enjoy.

Another month gone by....

2008-08-21T04:59:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought I was going to pull it together and keep my blog updated and all of my new paintings posted on my website, another month passed me by! I promise, I am still here... painting like crazy.... and going crazy!

We have had a fantastic summer season at the gallery and I appreciate all of you who have visited with us and shopped with us. Because Santa Rosa Beach (Destin) is a tourist destination, each week, I have had the opportunity to meet so many new people. It never ceases to amaze me what a small world in which we live and the connections that can be made in such a brief encounter. Thanks again for a great summer!

ARTISTS AT GULF PLACE GALLERY UPDATE...

We have two artist leaving us in September and we are currently taking artist applications for our kiosk. If you are interested in joining us, please let me know!

Gulf Place will be hosting the SoutherBreeze wine festival September 12-14 in the amphitheater area next to the galleries. If you are in the area, come join the fun! Wine, food and art... can it get any better than that?!

Have a good one.... much love and peace, Wendy

New Blog and Mermaid pictures coming soon...

2008-07-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

I have been painting like crazy trying to keep my shop full at Artists at Gulf Place. Despite the gloom and doom news concerning the economy, people are still coming to the beach and shopping the shops! It has been a crazy two months and very much appreciated!!!!!

I am recycling a lot of 'canvases'.... license plates, old suitcases, metal siding, my childhood bed (sorry mom), etc.
I don't have any pictures of the suitcase yet, but it is to die for. Check back soon!

Ice Cream Truck #3

2008-06-08T16:46:00.000-07:00

Another Ice Cream Truck... "The Mermaid Truck"

Another Day in Paradise....

2008-05-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Does this beach get any better?!!!!!

Yesterday, another precious gift from the gulf... a humpback whale.

I wasn't lucky enough to see her, but a friend staying with us for the weekend did see her surface. Of course we thought he (friend, not whale!) had consumed ten too many beers, but today another friend forwarded along this picture. And here it is... a 35 foot humpback whale!

May 14, 2008... Real Estate and Art...

2008-05-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

I have had a crazy week... juggling between the right and left sides of my brain... Real Estate Agent vs Artist.... It ain't easy being me!
I really do love the real estate gig... I have met so many wonderful people over the years, the excitement of pulling a deal all together, the highs, the lows and of course, getting to see the interior of other people's homes... Especially in this area where bright beachy colors seem to be the trend. Sometimes I will be at a property with a client discussing special assessments and square footage and I will be thinking, "Dang, I really like that shade of blue." You can take the real estate out of an artist, but you can't take the artist out of a real estate agent!

Anyways... that's where I have been most of the week with the exception of Mother's Day. Mother's day was perfect... My boys know how to do me right and as usual, they did! Aaron called from Miami with very exciting news about his meeting with the President of the Dominican Republic (more of that to follow soon!) and Sam and Will spent the day slinging pizzas at their respective jobs. So, after a morning of sweet cards and gifts (a new grill and $$$$$ for my favorite hippie shop), James and I enjoyed a picnic lunch at my favorite restaurant... Krystals! Sorry, but it's true! I am a Krystals freak!

But, I have been painting like crazy in the early mornings and have several new pieces to add to my website. I should be able to get them on the site within the next few days, so please check it out.

I have also been busy catching up on special orders. With wedding season upon us, I have had lots of orders for wedding signs as well as wedding gifts. If you need/want a wedding gift for someone, don't forget about giving the gift of art! Hey, that gave me an idea.... a gift registry!

Off to do some real estate comps... just needed to tap into the art side for a minute!
With love and peace,
Wendy

April 25.... Another Ice Cream Truck!

2008-04-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

I did another ice cream truck for "Rainbow Frost"!!!!!!
Two down... two to go!

April 24... The Ice Cream Truck!

2008-04-24T04:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I painted the first of four Rainbow Frost Ice Cream trucks! Just had to share a picture!

Also, thanks to all of you that visited Lisa and Lulu's website. These two girls are great and have become really, really special to me. I love the energy that they have put behind "becoming artists" and have enjoyed being a part of their journey. If you haven't checked out their site, please visit www.coastalsisters.com! Make sure you join their mailing list (by emailing them)!!!!!

Have a good one!
Love and Peace... Wendy

April 21... Lisa and Lulu

2008-04-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

Through the course of my mermaid art journey, I have reaped many rewards... MANY!

There was the recognition as a 'Coastal Character' in Coastal Living Magazine... my art being featured on the cover of local magazines... the many pieces I have shipped all over the country... the pictures I have received of my art hanging on the walls of someones home.... being known as the 'Mermaid Girl' around town (It's a small town!)... my own little gallery that I love like crazy... the many website guestbook entries letting me know how my art has made someone laugh or feel happy. Oh, it goes on and on and on... all good, good stuff!

But the greatest reward has come from being able to help other artists along the way... artists on the verge of putting their hearts and souls out there on a piece of canvas... not really knowing if they should... not knowing what step to take next and then turning to me for advice. At first it was a bit awkward. I would read these letters and I would say to myself, "They're asking me?" Who the heck am I? Most often, I don't even know what I am doing... I am just a girl painting mermaids on 'canvases' I have pulled from someones trash pile and seriously winging the whole artist gig by the seat of my pants. Really, I have no idea what I am doing... I am just doing it.

But there were these letters... some just a quick question... some pages long! (You know who you are!!!!) I couldn't let one go unanswered. I wanted each one of these 'strangers' to be an artist. I wanted them to experience the same feelings I was feeling in being an artist. I wanted them to put it out there... show the world... DECLARE YOURSELF AN ARTIST! And then I would get an email saying they had hung a piece in a gallery or applied for a show. It was like, YES, KEEP GOING!!!!!!! I am by no means taking the credit for any of their accomplishments, but only saying that being a part (although it very small) of someones art journey is the greatest reward of all.

To those of you who aspire to be an artist, just be one.
To those of you who are an artist, be a friend.

Here's where all this is going... Today, one of my 'artist friends' (and her artist sister) emailed me. She sold her first piece in a gallery!!!!!!!!!!!! And, she has a website!!!!!!
And, HERE IT IS! LISA AND LULU!!!! Please visit their site... Please send them an email and join their mailing list. http://www.coastalsisters.com/index.html Join in on their journey and love them!!!

CONGRATS LISA AND LULU!!!!!!!

April 11, 2008... Peace Signs

2008-04-11T04:51:00.000-07:00

New signs!
Check out my "peace signs" gallery on the main page of my website.

A portion of all proceeds from the sale of these signs will be donated to my favorite charity.... Yes, you guessed it, PLANTING PEACE.

Aaron is currently in Cambodia working on a project that will help children caught up in the sex slave industry. Thanks for all of your continued support in his endeavors!

April 8, 2008.... Free Music!

2008-04-08T08:41:00.000-07:00

Gulf Place is hosting the Jazz Festival again this year.
If you are in the area, and don't have a ticket, but want to "hear" the sounds, come hang out on our gallery deck! The beach bar will be open and we will be hosting several local artists!
It's a great place to hear the music!

Music schedule is as follows:
Thursday.... April 17... Music starts at 6:30 pm

Friday... April 18... Music starts at 5:30 pm

Saturday.... April 19... Music starts at 9:30 am

Sunday.... April 20... Music starts at 9:30 am

It will be a great day to be a local!

March 31, 2008... Ice Cream Truck

2008-03-31T14:17:00.001-07:00

I can add another truck to my resume ... well, sort of!
Yesterday, a friend of a friend (and now my friend too!) asked if I would paint the name of her business on the side of her ice cream freezer truck to make her legal with the DOT.
And the pay for a job like this? A CASE OF NUTTY BUDDIES! (It was a friend of a friend!)

Now I am hoping for her "ice cream man" trucks that cruise the neighborhoods... I am seeing pink flamingos eating big dripping ice cream cones, etc. That would be so much fun! I am hoping!!!!!! Plus, it would keep me from painting our family SUV a little longer!

March 25, 2008... Aaron on Larry King!

2008-03-25T04:12:00.000-07:00

I have yet to stop bragging! Aaron on Larry King finally made its way to YouTube!
If you haven't seen it, please check it out by clicking on this link.....
'CLICK HERE FOR AARON ON LARRY!

March 23, 2008... My dad

2008-03-24T06:20:00.001-07:00

This weekend, I did a show at ‘Watercolor’ in Santa Rosa Beach… It is my favorite show… the setting beautiful, the artists always incredible, champagne flowing and so far, the sun always shining. It is a very special, yet sometime difficult place for me to visit. I have never been there in which tears haven’t flowed and my heart not warmed to the absolute max.

Watercolor is the community my father was developing when he suddenly passed away six years ago. At the time of his death, they had little left to complete on the Watercolor Beach Club, a project he designed yet was unable to see to the end… Well, kind of. Over the course of the days following his death, crews of hundreds gathered to complete the landscaping and the final touches on the building in order for us to have his memorial service there. So, in a way, I guess he did see it to the end.

His personal artistic marks are all over the area… developments, homes, buildings, golf courses, etc. but Watercolor, in all of its beauty, is my favorite.

I have read way too many ‘life after life’ books (Sylvia Brown and Elizabeth Ross my favorites) and had way too many ‘signs’ not to believe that in spirit he is with me. I have developed this crazy thing for Journey songs, the number 11 and butterflies and it seems that when I need to see one or hear one the most, it is given to me. And whenever I do, I always say out loud and into thin air, “Everything is going to be OK.” Crazy, I know, but if I could only tell you how many times I have managed to work myself through something on the belief that these little ‘signs’ were given to me.

The night before the show, I had a difficult time falling asleep… I was worried about the overwhelming feeling I would feel once I got to the park… worried if his memorial statues and plaques would still be in place… anxiety ridden and worried. I woke up in the night and laid there thinking about what the day would hold. I rolled over and looked at the clock and it was 1:11. I smiled, whispered ‘everything is going to be OK”, and went back to sleep. I got up at 5 o’clock in the morning to get ready… grabbed my coffee and checked my email. The first email was an email forwarded to me from Aaron with a subject line that read “Chick”, my father’s name. It was from a person that my dad had first met when giving her a job back in the early 90’s. She wrote of meeting my father, what he meant to her, shared some memories and let Aaron know how proud she thought dad would be of him for his work through his Chick Grant foundation. I sat in front of the screen… tears pouring…. And knew that it was no coincidence that today was the day that letter appeared in my inbox. I printed the letter and put it in my back pocket. I got to the show, sat on the park bridge facing my dad’s memorial statues and reread the letter. I called my brother and read it to him… and cried and cried and cried and cried. Other artists were busy setting up around me but I just kept on. And then I got tickled. I started thinking that those around me were probably thinking that I had received a “dear john” letter and was reading it to a friend. If only they knew…..

It was in my fathers passing and in moments like that in the park that remind me of the person I want to be… Moments and events that force me to remember who I am and what I am to do in this life. I am to take nothing for granted nor any person for granted. I am to remember that time is precious and that people are precious. I am to remember that relationships are precious. I am to remember that you never know what a person is going through at any particular moment or what it is that may have forever changed their lives. I learned so much from my dad through his life, and I have learned so much from him in his ‘life after life’. There is not a day that I don’t think about him. There is not a day that I don’t miss him. Time has seemingly taken the knee-buckling edge off of things, but the feelings and the heart remain raw.

The show…. The tears dried up but the lump in my throat remained. The sun broke through a week of rain and clouds. Artist displayed their arts. The crowds gathered. Champagne flowed. The band played. It was a great day to be happy.

I never picked up a paintbrush until after my dad passed away. Actually, I picked up that first paintbrush as a means to heal… it was a therapy of sorts… a way to stop thinking… a way to escape. Many times I have felt so saddened that he has not been here to be a part of this ‘artist’ piece of my life. He never got to see my art. He never got to see my mermaids. He wasn’t here for my Coastal Living Magazine feature. He wasn’t here when I opened my first gallery…. But if it weren’t for his passing would I have ever even picked up that first brush? And if I believe that he got to see his Beach Club to the end, how could I possibly not believe that he hasn’t seen my mermaids?

I don’t believe in coincidences… I believe in tiny little miracles. This weekend held many!

These photos are of one of my dad's Watercolor Statues and plaques....

March 20, 2008... VAN-GO

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March 20, 2008

Last Saturday, we painted the ‘Artists at Gulf Place’ van… Well, the van actually belongs to Brownie, our woodcarver, but we certainly put our mark on it. His old $2,000 work van we now value at about $20,000, certainly less than any old Van Gogh, but certainly now a VAN-GO!

I have wanted to paint my own truck for so long, but have yet to take that leap. What would the neighbors think? What would the kids think? Blah, blah, blah… But I have been harboring this fantasy for a long time. And then when Brownie came up with the idea of painting his van for a means of advertising for Artists at Gulf Place Gallery, I couldn’t rest until we all gathered together with a modge-podge of paints and brushes and put that first splash of color on an old white van.

So here it is…. my dream come true!

February 26, 2008

2008-03-19T17:33:00.003-07:00

This is a picture of my buddy… bless his precious, precious heart…. He passed away this week after the fight of his life with cancer. I love this picture because his cell phone was his life line. He talked on the phone more than any guy I have ever known, and no matter where he was, he’d take a call! Losing him is absolutely heartbreaking, but it’s hard not to smile when I think of all of the wonderful memories he left with me.

What a guy… what a soul… what a friend. The cancer had his mind and body much too fragile for deep conversation over the last month or so, but up until then I talked to him almost daily. He had a way of talking me through just about anything… and always with a laugh at my expense. The last two days I have had many conversations with him… out loud… into the room. I know he still thinks I am nuts and that I love.

He is my hero. He fought his cancer with all his being and he did it with true grit and amazing grace. My memories of him will never fade as he had a presence in my life that was much too magnificent for that. I will miss him with all of my heart and I will forever love him with all of my heart.

February 15, 2008

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Ohhhhh, had a GREAT valentines! Lots of good love!

Flamingoes.... I added several new flamingoes to my site today and sold two within minutes! Now that is how I like to do it! These are painted on metal mexican roofing tiles from the 1930s. They were salvaged from a building in Tallahassee, Florida.

A friend of mine gave me a stack of the tiles and when I brought them home the family thought I was nuts. After some scrubbing and some paint, wah lah.... FLAMINGOES! Please check them out. These are the last of my tiles, so if you are interested in purchasing, please let me know. Oh yeah... they make great yard art!

February 1, 2008

2008-03-19T17:32:00.001-07:00

I added a great dog and cat artist to the "links" section of my website. Pattie Maney does really vibrant dog and cat portraits. Check it out! www.lovedog.etsy.com

December 22, 2007... With lots of pictures!

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This has been a crazy few weeks... getting ready for Christmas, playing Santa, shopping, living and loving it up with friends and enjoying the holiday festivities. I love this time of year... there is just so much joy and excitement in the air. And then there is family... I can't wait to have all three boys next to the same pink Christmas tree once again!

Last night, we went to the BEST Christmas party ever...The Hammits annual Christmas party! This year, they added a new twist... a talent show! OMG.... the talent! An 85 year old harmonica player.... the cutest orange juggler ever (to the tune of Mary had a little Lamb on the keyboard) ... "The Lunch Room Lady" on guitar... a sax.... a cello... a banjo... poetry... a card trick... and the singing! Oh, the singing.

I am still smiling and laughing!

Speaking of GREAT talent.... My 16 year old son, Sam, is officially in a band! He joined The Aeolian Bards (I have no idea how to pronounce it, what it means or if that is even close to the spelling). Another OMG! Sam plays the sax and they had their first 'real' gig at the Funky Blues Shack this past week. They brought down the house! OK, it was a Monday night and it was mostly parents and friends, but they couldn't have asked for a more fan based audience! They were awesome! Somewhere in the middle of Free Bird, I was like screw the bad grades and the messy room, Sam is going to find his way to a big stage one of these days! If any agents wants the tape, I have hours of footage!

They also played at 'Paper Moon' this week and will be there again on January 29. It's a hole in the wall, but it's a gig! They also just cut a demo CD in a 'real' studio. We had the pleasure of listening to the 17 minute song last night! Yes, 17 minutes. They play REALLY long songs!

SAM AT FUNKY BLUES SHACK!

OUR PINK CHRISTMAS.... Yes, I have three boys and they LOVE the pink Christmas tree!

James and me....

SInce I am in the picture sharing mood.... How about Aaron, OUR MEDICAL MARVEL CNN HERO on Larry King? !!!!!

And last but not least... my precious baby Will!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!
With love and peace this New Year and always...

Wendy, James, Aaron, Sam and Will

December 7, 2007

2008-03-19T17:31:00.001-07:00

Last night was wonderful! WONDERFUL! It just keeps going on and on and on.

Aaron did not win the viewers choice "CNN Hero of the Year" last night, but as I have said many times over, that was never meant to be his defining moment! He defined himself long before all of this and tomorrow he will leave New York (and Larry... and Anderson) and he will be back in the trenches with his people doing what it is he loves and living through his heart.

But, as his mom, I have to say, last night when Sara Ferguson.... Ex daughter in-law to the Queen of England.... Sister-in-law to Princess Di.... Auntie to William and Harry... introduced my son, I cried like a baby. Sara Ferguson.

The crazy thing is, about a month ago I had a dream about Fergie. I have no idea why. NONE. But the next morning, and the several days that followed, I wondered what ever happened to her. I couldn't seem to get her off my mind. I even thought about how nuts it was that I would even be thinking about her. I thought about it a lot.... even thought about doing a Google search.... crazy, I know! And then.... last night... in all of her beauty..... she walks out onto that stage and she says my sons name. HUH? Tell me I did not imagine that!

But again....... and again.... and again...... THANK ALL OF YOU FOR TAKING THIS JOURNEY WITH ME.... for listening to me go on and on.... for pulling for him... for voting for him, and most importantly, for keeping him in your prayers.

YOU HAVE NOT SEEN THE LAST OF HIM!

December 3, 2007

2008-03-19T17:30:00.002-07:00

A son on 'Larry King Live'.....

Where does a mother even begin?

The much anticipated airing of Aaron on 'Larry King Live' was last night! The boys and I sat there in awe.... none of us able to speak.... flowing tears and hearts of abounding love and admiration. Ok, I am his mother, but I thought he was perfect.... eloquent, informative, articulate, smart, inspiring and peaceful. At the end of the segment, I took a deep breath and I knew.... I knew that not only had my (our) precious Aaron already touched this world but that it would continue long after that final handshake with Larry.

Seeing him sit across from Larry King and listening to his words, I was once again reminded of just how blessed I am to love him and to know him. As his mother I am proud.... (oh, so proud!). Everyday, I am touched by his soul, his spirit, his selflessness, his kindness, his gentleness, his love and acceptance of ALL others and the peacefullness that fills his heart.

I woke up early Sunday morning reflecting on all that has happened to Aaron over the last few months.... CNN Hero, Larry King, Good Morning San Diego, local television, hundreds of newspaper articles, radio interviews, etc. This incredible amount of publicity has generated so much interest in his cause and in his work. The donations, offerings of time, sevices and monthly pledges have been overwhelming and for ALL of it, we are so appreciative.

His emails.... There have been THOUSANDS! Because I am officially his "email sorter", I have had the privledge of being able to read each and every one of his emails. I have hung onto word after word... reading them over and over again.... amazed by the outpouring of love and support and reminded in letter after letter that people are good.

And then there are the letters that I have received from so many of you.... my family, my friends, my 'mermaid art' friends and strangers. I do not have the words to tell you how they have touched my heart or just how many times I have cried. Oh, the letters. Thank you.

From the bottom of my heart, and with all of the love in my heart, thank you for taking this journey with me. I ask that each of you continue to keep Aaron in your thoughts and your prayers. Please pray for his safety, his health, his future and for his people.

This holiday season, and always, please continue to carry Aaron's message within your hearts..... One small hand giving in the name of love can make a difference in the heart and the life of another....

Today, someone needs you. Even if it is only a smile that you can offer, please build that bridge.

May peace be with you.... Happy Holidays!

Wendy

November 29, 2007

2008-03-19T17:30:00.001-07:00

Still no news on my CNN Hero baby. Bless HIS heart. Bless MY heart. Bless ALL the CNN Hero hearts! This is nerve racking.... but like I told him tonight, even if he doesn't take home the gold, he is still the 'stuff''. Almost 2 million Haitian children have been touched by his heart, his love and his devotion to bringing good to this world. That is a hero....

Tonight, I spoke with one of my love, love friends, Scott, from LA.. He went with Aaron to the Larry King set for what Aaron thinks was for moral support (and it kinda was). Actually, he went on my request so I could get all the details... like what does Larry King look like..... what was he wearing.... what did Aaron say... how did he feel... was he nervous.... all the things any woman/mom would want to know. It is ALL in the details!!! Of course, I got the whole scoop! Thank you Scott and Michael!!!!! Love, love, love!!!!

Don't forget... My gallery holiday party is this weekend! Hope to see you there!

November 27, 2007

2008-03-19T17:29:00.001-07:00

Sill no word from CNN... I guess we are all going to have to wait until December 6. I CAN'T WAIT!

Aaron shot the Larry King show yesterday and called me last night! Gosh, the excitement in his voice was worth every bit of everything he ever did as a child.... throwing his homework away, messy room, wet towels on the floor, losing his shoes...... etc. Talking to him last night was one heck of a mommy moment! He had a great time..... He felt as if he did really well... wasn't nervous.... was able to answer all of the questions without choking and/or passing out, etc! Of course, one of the first things I asked him was, "How did Larry look?" but in true male fashion, he didn't notice! What???????? Did he not know that would be at the top of my list? I also wanted one of those famous Larry King coffee cups.... no.

I know it must seem as if I am living and breathing nothing but CNN and the vote. Although that is partly true, I do sitll have my mermaid life and the teenagers. They have a way of never keeping you to close to just one thing and/or thought. We have had a big week. Sam, my 15 year old, played in his first gig on Monday. They played at Funky Blues Shack in Destin and got bookings for two more nights in December! My son is officially a sax player in a band! Last night they played at Gulf Place and will be there on most Tuesday nights. If you are in the area, please come see them.... they will be the ones with the BIG tip jar out front!

NOVEMBER 16, 2007

2008-03-19T17:28:00.002-07:00

Through all of this, I really am painting mermaids! Just want to remind you that I will be at Rosemary Beach doing the Holiday Show Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. So, if you are in the area, please come visit! I will have a new shipment of my coasters and cuttingboards by then as well!

Also, just a reminder... The Artists at Gulf Place Holiday Show is December 1 and 2. There will be artists demonstrations, music, food, adult beverages, and santa! This is a great annual event... lots of fun and lots to do. This holiday season, give the gift of art!

NOVEMBER 15, 2007

2008-03-19T17:28:00.001-07:00

The news just keeps getting bigger.... Aaron (and all six of the CNN Hero finalist) will be on Larry King on December 2 !!!!! Yes, LARRY KING!!!! This has been one exciting experience. As his mom, it is a feeling like no other.... to have your child honored by CNN..... to see your child featured on CNN... to know how he has touched so many others hearts.... to know that he has brought so much awareness to the children of Haiti...... on and on and on! But behind this story, there is an even bigger story (a story I am most proud of) .... behind all of the (exciting) hoopla and the (deserved) recognition is a young man that went into the trenches of Haiti and without all of this recognition, with very little money, and with little support, NEVER gave up. He dedicated his life to these children and with love and peace in his heart, he never looked back. That is a hero.

So.... set your VCRs..... Larry King.... December 2. And as always.... PLEASE VOTE! www.cnn.com/hero

NOVEMBER 13, 2007

2008-03-19T17:27:00.000-07:00

Its that time... the CNN Hero final vote... six incredible heroes.... all deserving of this honor. As most of you know by now, my son, Aaron Jackson is in the final vote for the CNN Hero Viewers Choice Award. To have your child honored in such a way.... well, there are no words.

He is my hero. I wish I could share with each of you the stories of his work, the un-glorified work he does each and every day, the children he has touched, the children he has fallen in love with, the children that call him Papa Jackson.... on and on and on.... my words could never begin to touch the depth of it all. His story is incredible.... Again, he is my hero.

I speak of him often... Actually, I tell everyone I see about his work. Recently, while coming out of surgery, and heavily sedated, I told everyone in Sacred Heart Hospital about my CNN hero. My surgeon told me later that I had the entire hospital on their way to vote! Oops.... the things we do as moms... the things we say under anesthesia.

I also have two other boys... teenagers! And although they are each very different and each finding their own way, each of them have hearts that are grand. I am blessed!

Of course, Aaron has my CNN Hero heart, but I am asking that each of you view all six videos. Again, incredible people giving back to this world. It is my hopes that you will be able to connect to at least one of them and help them along in their journey!

Thank you for all of your emails, your loving words and your votes! Through Aaron and through this experience I have learned that people are good.

Please vote.... www.cnn.com/hero

Much love.... wendy

NOVEMBER 8, 2007

2008-03-19T17:25:00.000-07:00

I had a great birthday!!! Thanks again for all of the emails, birthday cards and well wishes!!!!
To all of you who commented on how young I look.... FREE PAINTINGS!
It really was a good one... the kids and I did our celebrating (another year of "old" birthday cards) and then a big people celebration at Royal B. To those of you in the area, you gotta go! It is delicious! It is my new favorite big people (white table cloths and no crayons) restaurant.

Birthday shoes.... Proof I don't only wear paint splattered flip-flops!

November 6, 2007

2008-03-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday!!!! I may just have the record on turning thirty! If today is anything like the last 46 (I mean 30!), good things are in store for me! Oh, happy day.

I have lots of upcoming events…… Mark you calendars!

The first weekend in December my gallery, Artists at Gulf Place, will hold its annual Holiday Show. For those of you in the area, it is a great time! There will be artist demonstrations (raku, children’s art projects, jewelry making, etc.), food, adult beverages, music and if all goes as planned… SANTA!

Thanksgiving weekend (Saturday only… I think?????) will be the show at Rosemary Beach.

For my friends in the Fort Lauderdale area, I am thinking about doing the Olive Oil Festival in March.…. Just seems like a place my Martini Mermaids need to be.

I finally have my coaster sets, mouse pads and cutting boards on my website. My photos don’t do them justice… they are fantastic! I LOVE them! I put the newsletter out last night and already have LOTS of orders this morning. If you are interested in any of these items for holiday gifts, please let me know as soon as possible.

NOVEMBER 2, 3007

2008-03-19T17:23:00.000-07:00

I made the cover of the Beachcomber!!! And a plug for Aaron's upcoming vote! More good, good stuff!

October 29, 2007

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My new pieces are in!!! I now have glass cutting boards ($40), mouse pads ($20) and coaster sets ($24) in "Booze Sisters" and "Zinnea". They look fabs! I hope to have them on my site within the next few days but if you know you want one before then, please let me know. THANKS!

October 28, 2007

2008-03-19T17:15:00.001-07:00

I did my first radio gig this morning on 105.5 with Handsome and Hussy in the morning. Oh my word... what a trip that was! It was great.... they were great! Too much fun! I was a nervous wreck going into it, and I am certain all of you who heard it could hear the shake in my voice. But the second segment..... I was all pro! If the mermaids don't work out.... well, I know where I am going next! Too, too much fun!

Laura and Mike had me on to talk about Aaron's work and the November 12-24 CNN Hero vote. I guess this is proof that I will stop at nothing... spare no one! Just another exciting day in the world of being a CNN Hero mom!

October 28, 2007

2008-03-19T17:15:00.000-07:00

October 23, 2007

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October 23, 2007….

It has been a crazy few months…. My son a CNN Hero (I just can’t seem to say that enough), a crazy and unexpected surgery (If ever there was any doubt, I am a baby!), a torrential downpour and flooding at the Destin Seafood Festival (thank you friends and strangers that held me down in the wind) and now a gearing up for the holidays. Fun but insane!

In all of that, I have decided to add a blog to the mix. I am not a blogger... have no idea what I am doing.... but because of all of the fun things going on in my life and with my art, why not?

NEW ITEMS… I just placed an order to have three of my pieces printed onto home accessories…. Next week I will have mouse pads, cutting boards, coasters and CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS! Yes, finally Christmas Ornaments. These items can be ordered online or purchased through my gallery at Artists at Gulf Place. I should have them on the site early next week.

Holidays…. I will be doing the Rosemary Holiday Show in Rosemary Beach over Thanksgiving weekend… Please no rain or wind. We will also be having our annual Christmas party and holiday show at Artists at Gulf Place. That will be held the first weekend of December. If you are in the area, please come… art, food, beer, wine, artists demonstrations, children’s crafts and of course MERMAIDS. FUN, FUN, FUN!

Are you ready for this? I will be doing a segment on 105.5 radio with ‘Hussy and Handsome in the Morning’ this coming Monday. I am freaking out! Tune in! If for no other reason, it should be a good laugh!

It's offical... I am now a blogger!