Remember all that talk about “the state of the economy”? It has arrived in my life with the sad news that my favorite little store www.sequoiagifts.com in Three Rivers is closing. (Okay, my favorite to do business with in terms of my art – my favorite for personal shopping is Creekside Yarns www.creeksideyarns.com   – oh-oh, is it my fault that he is closing???) Scott is the most professional retailer I have encountered for a long time, and if he can’t make it, perhaps “it” can’t be made in the gift industry here in Three Rivers. Rather than become lachrymose, I’ll just stick to the facts. Now I have to find another outlet for my artwork here in town. Think think think. Never mind, just paint.  Today I began these 3 new pieces: Obviously (“obviously??? Maybe not, given the rough state of these embryonic paintings!) I am focusing on local subjects! Why? Because the only way to remain self-employed is to be an optimist and I KNOW I will find another place to show and sell my work in town!