Tomorrow is another day...

Some days are just not worth repeating. Case in point, a day where one gets rejected from a show or finds out that a grant they had written is declined. I have been working on a line of cards and this image came to mind on a day that was just not going my way. So I gave myself a little visual pep talk and created this image, and tried to remind myself that it is okay to fail, get rejected or have some things not go your way because to quote my mother," Tomorrow is another day." It's funny how when one day goes so poorly the next can be a gem and picking yourself up and giving whatever it is another go is worth doing.

I've Moved!

Check out my new blog at http://www.chankinspaint.typepad.com/. You can also get there via my web site www.chankinspaint.com -just click artist journal and you're there!

The Swan and the Blackbird

The Swan and the Blakbird
Originally uploaded by chankins

Like all moms I was looking at my four lovely rugrats and I thought- wow, where did the time go? They are no longer lap children...in fact they hardly fit on my lap. Even my youngest- my mommy magnet, no longer sticks to me like glue. So I had this moment of sadness because those baby days are gone...not that I miss the diapers, lack of sleep, and 3 a.m. feedings, but because It went by in a blink. I drew this picture about bed time and when my kids used to fall asleep in my arms. When you are in the middle of it- taking care of babies ,you just want to get through the day. I say this because I had 4 children under 5 years of age and was constantly moving...no time to smell the roses or even consider how lovely they all were. This piece is about all the good and the hardship that we endure while raising little ones. The swan represents the beauty and the blackbird the hardships.

The Big Easy

Bourbon Street
Originally uploaded by chankins

I just returned from my first visit to New Orleans. I went to see the Vagina Monologues tenth anniversary show with a few family members. The show also happened to be on the same weeked as the French Quarter festival...so let's just say there was a party atmosphere. But in New Orleans the party never really stops. I almost didn't make it at all...I was one of those American Airlines tragedies-mine not so bad as many others. I ended up getting new and expensive tickets on another airline thanks to my very generous husband, who I think was determined to have me out of the house.


I arrived before the rest of my family-we were flying in from all parts of the country to meet. My room at the hotel wasn't ready, so I stored my bags and walked down to Bourbon Street. It was only a few minutes from my hotel. Bourbon Street definitely lived up to it's reputation. It was bar after bar with strip clubs in between. Everyone was walking around the street with drink in hand and having a ball...and this was at about 11 a.m.- I can only imagine what Mardi Gras must look like!

I took a ton of photos... lord knows I needed some inspiration and a break from Minnesota grey. I love the color of the old buildings , the shutters and the hidden courtyards. The balconies were beautiful and well utilized on Bourbon Street. I walked until I had blisters on every inch of my feet. For some reason cute shoes were just not meant for long walks...go figure!

We went to a flea market near the french Market where I took a picture of these masks. Later while having lunch, I spied this hearse decorated with all kinds of crazy things. I thought that the flamingos were an especially nice touch. I think that I will have to add a couple to my next painting.

I also took many pictures of balconies and anything with greenery on it. I think that I really need spring to come... and soon!

Falling Slowly

I was craving romance like I crave chocolate with this piece. I tried to think of a romantic scene involving a couple that maybe just met or possibly have known each other for a long time. It could be anyones story really. I have been married for 15 years and have a handful of kids so those romantic moments can be fleeting. But I have to say that when they happen they are highly appreciated!

Waiting Line

Waiting Line
Originally uploaded by chankins

I think that I am on a roll. I worked on this piece for most of the week. It is kind of frivolous. I wanted to add elements that are around me all of the time. I also collect Chinese lanterns and wanted to include them. They are fun to hang and are so colorful. They also make me think of summer and sitting out on my porch before the mosquitos come around for dinner. My pets have been included as well. Sam, my English pointer, spends the better part of the day following me around waiting for food or just trying to figure out where to plant himself to be in close proximity. I also added my cat...she spends most of the day sleeping or trying o attack my feet. The coffee is a staple because I am not actually human until I have my first cup...just ask my kids.

Summer Dream

Summer Dream
Originally uploaded by chankins

I am waiting with baited breath for spring to come. We had another snow storm at the beginning of the week and all I could think about was how wrong snow in April is. Fortunately, I can imagine what it would feel like to sip wine and dip my feet in a lake with the sun shining overhead. This piece is about warmer fronts, cute red dresses, and taking a moment to relax.