Monday, August 27, 2012

ABC Art Is A Success!

When I first started my animal alphabet project, I had no idea how the drawings would be received. To my surprise, there has been such a huge abundance of support from family, friends and even people that I haven't even met. There has also been some great advice on how I might improve them. I would like to thank those whom I have described for being so amazing. My art would not be as much of a success without you. Thank you for what you have done and continue to do.

Sunday, August 19, 2012

Hot, Hot Hot August Nights

I'm back in Oregon after 3 days of Reno, Nevada's Hot August Nights. 'Hot' is probably the best adjective to use for the event. We arrived at our motel, unloaded the '64 Chevy Van from the trailer and all our gear. Called up my buddy Collin to let him know the fun had arrived, picked him up and went cruising in the "Vanimal." 

The next morning we headed to the swap meet. Aah, what a beautiful place, 5filled with vintage, rustic treasures. My mother and sister would feel right at home. We decided that we'd had enough of the swap meet and chose our default boredom filler: Cruising. We stopped at a few car shows at some big hotels / casinos and before we knew it 7 o' clock rolled around. Now it was time to cruise the registrated-only specified cruise in which they close off one block for people to show off their sweet rides. 

Our last day was similar to the day before with one exception. Chevrolet had a small test track in which people could actually drive a new Camaro or Corvette. They also had professional drivers who would take you on an exhilarating 30-40 second race around the track. After some convincing, my dad got me to agree to go for a ride. There was a big line because it was free, but the people with Chevrolet were so great. They put me right a the front of the line! Sometimes words just aren't enough to describe something, so here's the link to the video of my ride:


Fun, fun, fun.

I don't know if it's the elevation or the heat that makes it more difficult to breath, but I will say that I am thankful to have my ventilator to help with my breathing. I find that every year I go seems a little more difficult for me physically in one way or another. For a young man in my physical condition I make do with what I have. I may not feel the best, but one thing that will never change is my drive to keep going in life. People often ask me how I maintain my attitude in life. My answer consists of three main things: How I was raised, my personality and most importantly because God has blessed me with each breath I get. 

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Hot August Nights Prep.

My dad and I are getting ready for our annual trip to Reno, Nevada for Hot August Nights. Imagine the largest car show you can think of and that will sum up H.A.N. In one of my earlier posts I described my custom 1964 Chevy Van. We will be towing it down to Reno to cruise around town. Something about cruising, with the music blaring,  and seeing the reaction of people as we drive by brings a smile to my face. I will be spending time with one of my best friends, who actually helped work on the van. He hasn't experienced Hot August Nights yet, so it'll be fun showing him around. I will try to post some of our experiences over the course of the trip. Reno! Here we come!



Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Preparation for Roost Barn Sale

Today has been a fairly laid back day for me. I woke up and thanked the Lord that He has blessed me with another day, and asked myself, "How can I be productive today?"

Thought I'd give my wheelchair the day off.

Roost Reimagined is having a barn sale this weekend, which I have been fortunate enough to be a part of. I have been working to get my alphabet flashcards ready. Among the flashcards I will also have individual prints of the animal letters. Unfortunately supplies will be limited, but there will be more available prior to the sale. I look forward to all of your input on my art.