I haven't had much time for art this past week, so I thought I'd show you my daughter on holiday in Berlin! Doesn't everyone whilst having a coffee gain a commission to decorate the cafe shop window?
She's in her element and loving Berlin.
I hope she remembers to show the window when it's finished so that I can show you.
Thanks Black Sheep Cafe
If you'd like to see more of my daughters work then click here to visit her.
Her website is undergoing reconstruction at the moment.
There aren't enough hours in the day apparently!
Now on to more serious issues...
I need your advice this week peeps... the momentous day has arrived.
My hubby has finally decided to retire!
ARGH!
He's been thinking about it for some months now, but today Friday 13th is the day!
That date has an ominous ring to it in my opinion, don't you think?
So, basically how do I survive?
Any tips, advice or general info would be appreciated.
I did practice some lettering... on his cake.
I've never know such tricky icing though.
The gold icing had a very weird consistency.
So that's about it for this week.
Thanks for popping into my place.
I hope you have a wonderful creative weekend.
Enjoy xoxo
Lovely photos of your daughter. I used to wonder how I would survive retirement, now I wonder how I survived work. Keep Hubby busy! Happy PPF, hugs, Valerie
ReplyDeleteThanks Valerie,
DeleteI think I'm going to have to have lots of outdoor projects for my hubby.
He is developing his man cave as I type!
Happy PPF to you
Oh dear, your everyday is going to change after your husband retires! No tips, I'm sorry !
ReplyDeleteThe lettering on the cake is perfect, I could never manage to create something like that.
Your daughter's work look fun!
It's day one and it already has!
DeleteIt's going to be a steep learning curve for us both I think.
I was pleased with the lettering, but have to say the gold icing was a little tricky. I wouldn't recommend it again. It had a very strange consistency. But it tastes fine, so I suppose that's okay.
Retirement is fast looming up on me and it sacres me. Hoping to go down to tree days a week for a couple of years. Hope hubby enjoys the cake
ReplyDeleteWell my hubby was a little scared, but he's braving through because after all it's been his decision to do this. I think to reduce your days is a fantastic way to get used to the idea. I recommended that's what he should do, but he didn't listen.
DeleteHe's actually munching through a piece of the cake as I type this comment Bill. There's only one piece left because my son has been helping him eat it!
Daughter is enjoying her life...so cool! Congrats to hubby, condolences to you, Nessie. ;) I hope he has a hobby to keep himself busy.
ReplyDeleteShe is indeed Nan, she's balancing being a lawyer and artist beautifully at the moment, but her heart lies with her art.
DeleteHehe... hmm... yeah condolences seems appropriate Nan.
He appears to have lots of his agenda so we will see. I was wound up by 11.am this morning, but it is early days!
Yup, but it will be a memorable day for sure. Congrats to your hubby, and hopefully the 2 of you will enjoy yourselves. I'm not sure about how to handle it though. I actually don't know if I could take my husband home all the time. Luckily it is still a few years, or at least I hope it is. Congrats to your daughter too. Happy weekend.
ReplyDeleteHopefully it will be memorable for the right reasons Erika.
DeleteI think we've both got lots of adjusting to do to make sure this works. Personally, I think my hubby is far too young to be retired, but as long as he can keep physically and mentally busy then he should be okay. I fear for my sanity that's all. Thank goodness I've got an art studio to retreat to in times of need.
Congrats to your husband on his retirement!
ReplyDeleteThank you Debra, he's quite excited by all of the possibilities available now that work is taken out of the equation.
DeleteWell as you know Neesie hubs and i have been dealing with his retirement for the last year.............. I can only speak for me personally but its been a rough road... theres alot of adjusting ..... for you and for him... hubby has to find his way...He has to find new passions in his life or maybe revive old ones that he set aside when work kept him too busy... He may seem a little lost now and then.... let him be a little lost... that was hard for me... I felt the need to 'keep him busy'... so i had to step back and just let him figure it out... he will.... But i have to say there have been some pretty wonderful times too... my favorite... snuggling in the mornings longer than we should because neither one of us has to get up for work.... YES! You'll be fine Neesie! Hugs! deb
ReplyDeleteHehe... aww now that sounds real Deb, I'm thrilled for him, but I'm not so sure about myself. We did have a trial period a few months ago when he was off work for three weeks. He asked me to make a list on the fridge of all the things that annoy me about him. Bless.
DeleteI hasn't to add that I never asked him to write mine down. At least he's aware that this is a big deal, so that's a good start.
He has got lots of ideas and things he wants to do... just getting in to cooking lately, but he cooks for himself and adds lots of spices and chillies... which have my son and I gasping for breath and iced water! He's got to appreciate that chefs cook for their audience and not just for themselves... (hehe)
Thanks for all of your encouraging words... they're very much appreciated. No doubt they'll be tales to tell over time... hopefully most for the good.
Hugs back to you
I thought your daughter had moved to Berlin when you posted this on Facebook - she's just there on holiday and picked up a commission?! That's pretty cool - what's her secret! Congratulations to your husband on his retirement. I'd be planning a round the world trip together for all the places you haven't been to yet then once you get back you can worry about him getting under your feet!
ReplyDeleteYes that's right Nic, in fact she's also created posters for a comedy festival production. It seems Berlin is the young creative mecca and commissions just come flooding to you. I think it might have something to do with the lovely friends that she's making out there, but it's all a wonderful experience for her.
DeleteI think a trip for hubby and me might be planned for later, especially when winter comes to call... although today it feels like winter already with that freezing hoolie blowing through. Surely the three days of warmth and sunshine that we had last week couldn't possibly be summer could it???!!!?
Can't wait to see the window, looks like fun. NO advise on retirement yet... my husband is not there yet. He'll probably retire before me though.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure what is planned for the window, but it'll be interesting to see the outcome.
DeleteI think my hubby is too young to retire and should have just reduced his days for a couple of months first... to test the water.
He's got lots planned so hopefully he'll keep busy and I can get on with my own pursuits.
Your daughter's art is charming! As for a retired hubby, well, I am still adjusting and so is he. It's been 5 months. Truthfully, there is a lot of personal adjustment that the retiree go through transitioning to this new stage in life. My husband spend many intense years working so being without that identity takes some time. On my part, I spend much of my time creating. We try to have time together and explore things we like mutually and also separate time that we spend on our individual interests. Good luck. Have a lovely week.
ReplyDelete~~ Irene
Thanks Irene, I'm hoping she'll see this post and see all of the lovely encouraging comments.
DeleteFive months you say... shhhhzzzz... but then I suppose it is a biggy. My hubby has worked flat out for forty years, so he says he's done his stint. It's time to enjoy himself. I personally won't miss ironing all of those business shirts!
I plan to spend a period each day in my art studio so we have timeout! I've got a project on the go already.
Thanks for your lovely comment and good luck wishes. I hope you have a lovely week too... and good luck for your adjustments.
I love your daughter's cards. I had a wee look. As for retirement...I think you need to make a nessie cave...or get him to make one...then you will have a little piece of sanctuary. I don't understand man caves. Women need caves too!! :)
ReplyDeleteAww thanks Morag, my daughters work appears to be evolving with each design... but I suppose that's the normal progression with being an artist.
DeleteAs to a Neesie cave... I've already got a studio that I plan to retreat to in times of need. I think it's important that we both do things separately. I like the term 'she shed' but I don't think the climate here lends itself to me... I love to be warm. I'd have to have a wood stove installed for that to work for me. A bothy perhaps!
You already know I adore your daughters art, and what a great photo! Can't wait to see the finished window! That cake is gorgeous, I love your font! Just goes to show how creativity streams out of every pore when you're a true artist!! The question I asked young women when they were in doubt of their marriage was, "Can you imagine yourself retired with him?" My answer was always no! So I have no advice for you...make sure he has a hobby or ten so he doesn't infringe on your time!! Could be sweet or not. My parents loved each others company so it worked well...not the case for many!! Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteHugs Giggles
Aww bless you Giggles, I've no idea what's planned for the window. It might just be the name, but it looks fun and I know she's thrilled. I hope she remembers to take a photo at the end.
DeleteYou never cease to make me blush with your kind words. I just wrote on the cake and was quite pleased with the outcome considering the dodgy icing tube. Hubby was thrilled and I think there's only one portion left!
I had such a giggle with your wise words on marriage. He seems busy out there in his man cave, so maybe this might work. We've just got to readjust the balance and then I think we'll be fine. Especially if he just does what I say!!!! (HAHAHA)
oh how cool for your daughter- I do hope you have a completed window pic to share:) Super cake and lettering!! I know how much my hubby is looking forward to retiring though not for at least 5 more years. No advice because hubby and I both could be very independent of our own hobbies and yet come together for dinners and trips so i think we'll be just fine. All the best to you both!
ReplyDeleteSo do I Linda, if I speak to her I'll have to request one. Her holiday is nearly over, so I presume she'll be finishing it soon.
DeleteI thought we might have a few more years before my hubby retired, but he's decided after 40 years of working that it's time for some fun!
We both have separate interests so I'm hoping we'll just have to adjust the balance. He's so excited at all the prospects and possibilities. I've got reservations, but hopefully we'll work it out. We've worked everything else out up to now, so we should be fine.
happy retirement to hubby and congratulations to your daughter for picking up great work on Vacation!! Sounds like life is idillic, sending hugs.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure about idillic Jenn, but it's certainly time for change.
DeleteI have my studio to retreat to if the need arises (hehe)
My daughter has picked up a few commissions whilst being in Berlin. It seems a very artsy young peoples place and she loves it.
Hugs back to you
Oh Neesie it looks like you will be able to write a book on how to cope with your husbands retirement after all these wonderful comments. First of all he needs an interest and to feel valued.... both of which MUST be outside of the home for your sanity. I suggest you nominate him to chop wood for all the OAP's and needy of Aberdeen - that will combine all his passions in one: his chainsaw, keeping fit, and doing his bit for the world and should do the trick for domestic bliss at home :) Smiling as I'm writing this as I know the two of you will be just fine!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your new life together... running now in case you through a freshly baked scone at me!
Wren x
I'm having to tread lightly already Wren, he's so excited and I'm so wary. It's just major changes and obviously I need to adjust to all the exciting prospects and possibilities that he's looking forward to.
DeleteWe've got to strike up a new balance, but we've worked well for over nearly 40 years (EEK) so we should be able to do this!
He laughed at your proposal for wood chopping and I can state he's out there now as I hear the chain saw on the go!
Fresh our of freshly baked scones Wren... it'll have to be banana and walnut loaf!
Congrats to your daughter getting the window job! I hope she does remember to send a picture of it when it's done.
ReplyDeleteI have no advice except to have things you love to do, so I hope he has hobbies and interests. When I was still able, I volunteered, too. Enjoy it!! :)
Her holiday is coming to an end Rita, so she must be near to finishing if not completed the window. I'll be sure to ask her for a photo of the finished window.
DeleteHe keeps telling me he has lots of plans, so hopefully we'll be fine. I will of course retreat to my art studio as and when the need may arise.
There's lots of possibilities and projects planned ahead... so it's a question of watch this space I think.
Happy Retirement to your hubby! He has to find a new purpose and not get bored!
ReplyDeleteBored isn't an option because if it's ever mentioned Christine, he'll have a list as long as his arm of chores! (hehe)
Deleteyour daughter's beautiful btw!
ReplyDeleteAww bless... thank you Christine
DeleteThat's great effort from your daughter, well appreciated.
ReplyDeleteConvey my congrats for your Husband on his retirement decision.
She told me about the window decorating, but I never envisaged this!
DeleteShe's in her element though, so whatever makes her happy.
My hubby seems a happy bunny with the decision, but it's all brand spanking new at the moment... hopefully he'll feel the same when winter comes to call.
the momentous day is here... already... that has freaked me out totally... escape and hide in your art room at once. he is going to take some training and you need to be strong for that... fill up on creative energy and the zen that comes with art and hope for the best. I have no doubt you will have him whipped into shape in no time. Start writing a monumental list of chores for him asap...
ReplyDeleteYep Trace, all life as I know it... Vamoosh... GONE!
DeleteWithin two hours yesterday we were a little techy and last night he decided to cook dinner, but he loves chilli's. He nearly blew mine and my son's head off!!! Oh the joys!
I plan to escape to the art room at regular intervals in this transitional period for my health and sanity. He's so excited and full of projects and possibilities so as long as they're all outdoor pursuits we may well be fine! (hehe)
We've worked through many trials and tribulations over the last 30 odd years, so I have faith that we'll manage this one.
If not the list on the fridge door for chores might well extend across to the freezer too!
Wish me luck!
Berlin, oh your daughter is a lucky girl to enjoy that city full of ART!!!! I like her cards, neat.
ReplyDeleteYour hubby, no, all men, should have a hobby, to study something out of their comfort zone - that's what we women do all our lives! (of course generalized). Something to do every day as a routine - cleaning (their way, they learn!), share homework.
And take own time out of the house too :) and let us have our own time to paint, draw etc. :) right?! :)
Have a good week ahead!
I can hear it in her voice that she's in love with the place. She's reluctant to leave today, but leave she must (for now anyway).
DeleteThanks for your kind words on her artwork and for your wise words on getting my hubby sorted.
He's been outside in his man cave for most of the morning... so he's happy fixing, fiddling and listening to the sports channel.
He says he's many projects lined up and he loves to cycle so could join a club soon. He used to cycle to work every day which is quite a feat in this hilly, changeable climate!
He has a touch of OCD so that might work as long as it's controlled by me! Sometimes he can tidy away something to a safe place, but then never remember where that safe place is. Which can be infuriating if it belongs to you!
Anyway... it's early days.
I can tell you are one proud Mama - they say the apple doesn't fall from the tree -- you are proving that correct!
ReplyDeletesandy xx
Congratulations on your husband's retirement and your cake is beautiful. Hope he adjusts well so that you can adjust well too. LOL
ReplyDeleteMy husband is still working but I am taking off either temporarily or permanently. I think my husband is liking the idea of seeing me at home when he comes back from work with hot dinner ready! I love your icing on the cake. Beautiful lettering but I was drooling too. Not surprised your daughter is talented too. You must be proud mama!
ReplyDelete