Still not in N.C.

Today, I did the unthinkable, I walked out of Starbucks. After having 3 people in front of me order 4 or more drinks, and seeing only 2 people working behind the counter I knew I was in for the wait of my life. Realizing I was not in N.C. and there would be no free drinks at the end of the rainbow, I walked. I can't stand in line for 1/2 to get a coffee, even if it is Starbucks.

Art in your Pocket: ATCs

Where have I been. I just received one of my publications that had a feature on ATCs. In doing more research, I find that I am missing out on a whole art movement. some of these cards are great. The idea is for artists to exchange original art with each other. Some groups have shows at galleries, get togethers, etc.

This is one of the most informative sites I have found. Check it out:

Art in your Pocket: ATCs

We aren't in N.C. anymore

The Starbucks at International Mall today was out of soy milk. There were no offers extended. Unlike N.C. where Starbucks employees feel the need to make sure you leave their establishment with a good feeling, Tampa has no such problems. They know you will be back and they don't care.

Mr. Picassohead-by Kate

My 8 year old daughter also tried her "mouse" at being a Picasso with fabulous results:

Mr. Picassohead

Mr. Picassohead

Great fun for all ages. The Mr. PicassoHead Website. Create your own cut, paste and color Picasso. View mine at:

Mr. Picassohead

Free Starbucks?

We were just in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the Southeast Regional Oriechtas (an irish dancing regional competition). While we were there we visited 2 different Starbucks. The unthinkable happened, we were given free products! We always get little samples here and there when our Starbucks back home is selling new pastries but this was a little different. I forgot to order my water at the first Starbucks and the Barista said "don't worry abut it just take one." At the second Starbucks the line was really long and everyone received their beverage on the house! I call that good business. The Starbucks in Tampa and St. Petersburg should take a page from the N.C. Starbucks book.

Tampa Museum of Art

The Tampa Museum of Art is celebrating their 25th anniversary. We picked up our new members passes and took a look today at the current show featuring their permanent collection. Not bad. I would recommend it, it even held our 3 year old daughters attention. One of the pieces was scorched canvas. Isabel thought it looked like coffee stains. I have promised to show her the coffee art website and brew an exceptionally strong pot of coffee so she can try her brush at coffee watercolor painting. I'll post the results as I photograph them.

Messy desk, great photo opportunity

Took this picture of my desk with my picture phone. I just might have to recreate this one as a still life in pastel.

Back to coffee, Panera

Sunday, is breakfast at Panera day. Last Sunday the light was coming through the window illuminating my empty coffee cup and tray. The picture is great (I took it with my picture phone), the coffee is awful (Panera's always is).