So, I am extremely thankful that I buzzed around for a few more scholarships and grants at the beginning of this year, because I have enough of them now that next year my spring and fall semesters are covered-no loans, etc.  This is a blessing from God, especially since there's even extra money as well.

This makes me feel a little better, since I am taking three extra semesters to graduate with a BFA painting degree.  Thanks to the parent's support, I have no debt with college, but funds are getting a bit tighter for them as Dad's old job is closing-- although a new thing is opening up in the same company which might mean he could work at home, which is brilliant.  Anyway, good news overall.

I won a Kindle Fire for best painting in show at a school contest, and also this summer I have been busy illustrating a children's book for a friend which will hopefully come out in December.  I can't talk too much about that, but I will let you guys know what is up!

In the fall there's another contest for the Civil War at our art gallery for students and professors, so I'll try to get something in that as well.  I'm torn between absolutely silly and something more serious, so if I can have two entries maybe I will put in both ideas.