*worn out*

the estimate on my car came back today. just under $2000. yeowch. didn’t think it would be that much. they’re replacing my windshield. it had some rock chips *shakes fist* from before, but one of them decided to go all nuts. my rear tire was worn and they’re replacing that, too, since it was also chewed up from the impact. since these are items that would have required replacing anyway, as part of maintenance and upkeep, they adjusted it as “betterment”. i can deal with that

i need to trade the rental in. it has a really yucky funk to it, like water damage, and the “low tire” light is coming on. plus, i really really do not like this car, at all. i can’t adjust the seat comparable to the scion’s and my right hip tends to get a bit painful as a result. the steering wheel won’t tilt any lower and that’s a major problem for me, too. [what can i say ... i "gangsta lean" when i roll].

“Adoration of June” was accepted for an all – woman’s exhibit in october at elder street gallery. i have to look into getting that professionally framed. i can’t imagine what that will wind up costing me out of pocket and i’m not looking forward to it. i could probably try and frame it myself, but it’s an odd size and they don’t make frames that are 6 x 12 inches [or larger in those dimensions, since i think a mat would be most suitable]. i can buy the kind you put together, but i really hate the selection i’ve come across, they tend to look rather cheesy.

i received an invitation to submit work to Arizona State University’s Anthropology department, they hold an annual dia de los muertos exhibit. their guidelines are rather specific. i wonder if there is anything i have readily available that might fit their bill, because i don’t really have time to make something specifically for the show as my time is rather limited with other obligations. MECA has also invited me to participate in a hispanic heritage event, for which i am happy to oblige. the santa barbara day of the dead event was something that came up recently, as well. these are all great opportunities which were not slated in my original schedules, just came up recently, and i can’t really say no to any of them, they’re all fantastic, and a wonderful way to get things shown out of state [except MECA, which is here, but i can never say no to lizbeth!]. i mentioned the latin grammys already, it coincides with alexis’s fundraiser. i am also waiting to hear back from the ymca about their event. plus, HP, i’ve already committed to that, just have to remember to take the time off from work to attend the daytime event. also waiting to hear about details for The Bridge, and a show in december at behemeo’s. [reminds me that i need to contact bettie, i miss her.]

i think i’ve been carrying around all these obligations in my head and mentally i’m wearing myself out. i find it hard to face the easel, when i need to the most. i imagine i won’t be doing anything with the lawndale tin until the 11th hour, as is my usual routine. there is also something rather awesome i’m keeping under wraps that i’m even afraid to mention so as not to jinx it. but let’s just say it is MY MOST PRESSING OBLIGATION at this time. and i’m no where near where i need to be with it.

good things. all good things. all blessings. all of them. and i’m thankful for them. even when i mentally juggle them and stress over the time i have to devote to them. all. good. things. and it just keeps getting better.

if i don’t answer emails right away, or respectfully decline on any upcoming events, i hope you’ll understand. [above all of these fantastic opportunities and sidetracks, i still have a full time job and family i have to take care of. god? can i please have 48 hours in a day?]