I've been blogging a lot about artists lately. I think I could devote an entire blog to it and never run out. My current obsession has to do with my own need to start painting again, not to sell but as a hobby. It's also fueled by my friendship with Marisa of Creative Thursday. I respect, admire, and above all, cherish Marisa for her wisdom and how genuine she is. These are all very important things to me, especially since some do not place a value on doing the right thing and being fair and Marisa does. When I need to pull myself back to center because the world feels really big (you know that feeling right?), I visit her blog because it's her diary and I like reading about her connections with others in LA, the fun places she visits, and most of all, her podcasts. It's refreshing to press "play" and be instantly connected to a voice that is speaking your language, and I don't mean English.

On Marisa's blog today, I read about a reunion she had with some of her artist pals, one being Cathy Nichols, whom I'd not heard of before. It reminded me of the value of positive female friendships, and by positive, I don't mean *kiss* *kiss* "How's the job?" as they half listen to your answer while thinking about what they'll say next, I mean friends that listen, support, advise. Women that care. Friends that clean your house when you are too sick to do it yourself, or surprise you with cards and calories you don't need - like homemade cupcakes.

After peeking at Cathy's online portfolio, I thought about all of you and how you may like her aesthetic. I also thought about how much I love seeing so many nice friends on the blog, commenting daily, sending me really nice emails. My inbox is a little wacky, so if things bounce back or I don't reply right away, please understand that I'm in a lot of places right now with work, life, and soon to go on vacation, so bear with me. Anyway, visit with Cathy and view her work, you can purchase originals or prints directly from her website using paypal. Let me know what you think.

And thanks Marisa, for all that you are, all that you do, and everything you share with your growing base of fans.

(image from cathy nicols)