Still rollin' along...

The big Riverside project is "in the can" as they say, just awaiting final approvals. I'm now putting muscle behind a coloring book for Omnitrans, the bus line out in San Bernardino. A little e-mail I sent out about the Fabulous Divas marquee a few days ago set more projects' wheels a-turnin' – new season art for two theatre companies I've drawn for previously and artwork for a couple other shows. I feel so incredibly fortunate and blessed to be doing what I love to do.

Working freelance is right for some and not so right for others. For me, the pros significantly outweigh the cons. One relatively tiny pro that I'm increasingly thankful for is schedule flexibility. This manifests itself in ways you'd expect – being able to do errands at less crowded times and seeing movies at quieter midweek matinees – but another particularly great thing is that unless I'm absolutely swamped I can plan little trips. Wednesday I fly out to St. Paul MN to visit the bro and his family. As far as activities, I've had niece and nephew requests for tickling and coloring Easter eggs, and as for myself, I think I'm going to try to stay warm. I know it feels balmy there for this time of the year, but I find temps in the 30s to be a bit chilly. But it will be great to hang with family. Can't wait!

Well, it's back to the drawing board for me. We lost an hour this morning, folks! Gotta draw some screaming campers and a walking, talking bus. Ah, the life of a freelance illustrator! Peace and love, y'all!

Painted faces on parade...

Okay, that was a bit "musical theatre geek"y, but I'm now unveiling a new sketch - the Las Vegas cast of The Phantom of the Opera Spectacular. Check it out here. This particular piece features 45 people - one of my most populated illustrations. Kristi Holden, Christine in this production and old friend, commissioned it along with sketches of her conductors and stage management staff. It was a huge project, but it was a lot of fun, and I'm so thankful that Kristi thought of me for this.

I'm typing this wee entry from Seattle where I'm visiting my Aunt Pam and cousins. Just flew in today from Oregon where I spent Christmas with the folks and Grandma and a lovely gathering at sis Deanna & family's new place. It was a wonderful Christmas - even including snow! Now it's off to bed so I'll be well-rested to watch 'em toss fish at Pike Place. There's a birthday gathering for cousin Cori tomorrow eve, and in the in-between time who knows what adventures I may embark upon?

Peace & love, y'all!