I hate fireworks

Gracie in the art studio, asking why the world is ending. Someone near us was throwing firecrackers

First lesson in a new class

Repeated first lesson with different images

close up of what I wrote

I started a new class yesterday. I know, you are so shocked. It is "30 Days" with Gulfsprite - Christy Sobolewski. This is pure art journaling, and we are using the Canson Mixed Media larger journal, which is available at Michaels right now with a deal-an extra 12 pages for the same price. The paper is heavier but will slightly buckle with a lot of water. However, so far, it will smooth back out.

I used Daniel Smith water colors and Caran D'Arche gouache on the above pages. The idea was to create a background with pattern, and then add a collage element. For the hand, I traced my left hand onto some Mandarin text paper I received from another crafter a few years ago. We did an exchange by mail. Christy suggested you color the hand prior to cutting it out, so I did that, let it dry completely, then cut it out and glued it onto the art journal page.

Now for a short rant: what is the allure of setting off fireworks in a neighborhood? I don't understand several points here. First, it is money wasted. BOOM! Wasn't that fun? Second, you as an adult are disturbing your neighbors, animals, and creating tension and stress in a world that truly doesn't need any more of either. Jake, my terrier, wants to attack every single noise. Gracie is frightened beyond reason, and this is worse as she ages. Last night at 7p.m., Cathy and I are researching if I can give her Buspar, which is the only anti-anxiety/tranquilizer drug I had in the house. Cathy offered me Xanax, which she gives her rescue, but I decided to try the dosage recommended for the Buspar. It worked. Actually, it calmed her to the point she was willing to lie down next to me and be petted. Eventually she fell asleep. The fireworks ended at 11pm, which is the law.

As a child and teenager, I loved the fireworks. My friend Jean and I had a tradition of watching them from a spot not far from our homes. But as a senior, not so much. Empathy for the animals and veterans stops any enjoyment. Your viewpoint does indeed change with age.
Linda