I am really happy for this particular Spring to have arrived! It means so many things, but foremost is it is the time I launch my first online/digital course into the world. My Contemporary Oshi-e: Basic Course is ready to go out into the world. I know in years to come this "new baby" will feel all grown up—but, for now, it is still my wonderful creation!

Also this year, in my garden, the trees I planted in honor of my husband, Lee, have bloomed for the first time since I planted them last fall. Lee was my biggest supporter, and my truest way-shower. He honored my creativity and pushed me to do things that I never imagined I could do. I do miss him for that in particular.

The blue chair in the photo is where I go to sit and ponder things, weather permitting. She needs some new paint, but it is something to watch the mountains and the clouds and the nearby cows from that wonderful vantage point. I am hoping to go there often now that the temperatures are rising. Once...

It was LOVE at first sight! 

The first time I laid my adult eyes on traditional Japanese Oshi-e was in a bank lobby in northern Japan. My husband (#1) and I were in the city while stationed at the adjacent Misawa (US) Air Force Base in the early 1970's.

I waited in the lobby while he went to secure funds to buy a car from a local dealer. When I saw that image, which I later learned was of the adult/parent lion in a famous Kabuki play called "Renjishi" (or The Two Lions), I was stunned by its' regal appearance and brilliant brocade fabrics.

The technique was like nothing I had seen before. I soon heard it called a "padded picture doll". As soon as possible I needed to know HOW to make one for myself.

After several phone calls (by one of the local bilingual secretaries who worked in the office with my husband), the very woman who created the image agreed to come and teach me on a weekly basis.

This began our 18 month-long challenge...