I find these blogs very interesting, and I can relate to so many thoughts and issues. Thought I'd contribute a few lines.... After bringing up the family, one son now having left for Uni, I have a little time for myself. I completed an art degree many years ago and decided, after a great deal of thought about 'what next', to go back to my roots. Instead of Graphics-my degree, I decided to pursue my dream of painting in oils. Never having done this before I enrolled on a course in 2008, and first painted in oil in Oct of that year. I've put in a good few hours trying to get my drawing skills back, and trying to learn about technique with the paints! What an incredible first year it's been! I've enjoyed this site hugely, so thank-you everyone for all your encouragement and comments.