OK so I'm not perfect.

I know that it has been awhile since I have posted. I have a book signing coming up on the book I illustrated for a close family friend. This will be my first time in the lime light and there will be numerous people I know and haven't seen for sometime. Am I worried about their opinion of the book and my illustrations? No, I am however worried about their reaction to how I have expanded over the last 18 years. I am reverting to being 15 again being insecure, shy and afraid of what they think and say. I keep trying to remember that I am successful, well adjusted married women with a beautiful family and a lot going for me. Am I alone in this or what.


I was driving back from Kamiah and I had to stop and get a picture of what has been left of ice jambs on the Clearwater River. They are astounding. I wish I had gotten to them earlier when it looked like the Artic here. Isn't Mother Nature Amazing! For now....Ilena

On your mark, Get set......

Greetings to all! I have not been as prompt as I had hoped in getting back to my blog. I have been busy with the everyday trivialities that tend to drive the sane insane. The weather here has been bleak and rainy. I guess that I shouldn’t expect a different tone in the weather as it is only January here and everywhere else. BUT you know there is someone, somewhere on a tropical island sitting on a beach, basking in the sun, sipping Mai Tai’s. Oh to be that person.

I have gotten some inspiration and creative juices flowing (Thanks to a DEAR friend who has been riding my ass! You know who you are and I love you for it!) AND have started working on an idea for a children’s book. As a child “eons ago” my grandmother gave me a teddy bear that has striking similarities to Poo Bear. He was my constant companion, trusted confidant and was a great shoulder to cry on. He was unique in the fact he was made of pink felt, thereby I christened him “Pinkie”. I am basing the character of the 14 page board book off him. The story is one of him riding his “cycle” in motocross. The book is for ages 2 – 5 years with lots of color, texture and action words. I’ll get a photo posted of “Pinkie” as soon as I can find him. I am just in the thumbprints and sketch phase of the project.


In trying to work on this project I have realized that I need to finish my studio. It was moved in September from the extra bedroom, now my oldest room (all of 7) and just sits in boxes is disarray for me to put back together. See below picture. Boy what a mess. But I can’t put the cart before the horse now can I?


I will close for know and keep all abreast on my progress on both projects but I can’t promises quick results. With two kids, two jobs, a house and a husband where does one find the time for your interests let alone time for oneself?

A beginning.

I don't hold up much hope at first keeping up to date with my blog until I become accustom to it and its needs and wants. Last year "Thank God!" it is over and a new crisp page has been turned in my "pourquoi" tale of life. What has been left behind in 2005 will stay there and I hope not to have brought too much of its baggage with me. As with every New Year there is always the thought of a clean slate and ambitions to achieve throughout the New Year.

I have many resolutions that I have to put into action. If I don't I will be sorely left behind. A few I have on my list in no particular order are weight loss & getting into shape, working on my creative side, house cleaning, making time for my Children, husband and myself. These are just a few. Like many I have a long list and lists of lists. I KNOW I can't be alone in this. Good luck to all.

This is just my first post of many and I hope to provide myself and you with insight, entertainment and enthusiasm. Looking forward to the days to come. Here are my men.