It took me three months to realize I had been paying for Apple TV, something I had never used. Ninety days came free with one of our phones and Apple "generously" extended the deadline during the pandemic. Such an oxymoron when it comes to its customers - Apple and generous. Apparently I failed to extend it on my calendar as well. Reviewing my bill I did wonder when my iCloud storage had increased, but carelessly dismissed the thought. The penny dropped when I compared the two credit card bills and realized we were paying for both services. Insult to injury? I could have had those months for free as I, too, had purchased a new phone.
I immediately went into action, cancelling the subscripting and noting I still had access for nearly a month. The challenge - watch enough free Apple TV to make my $18 mistake worth it. The weather has cooperated in supplying a "robust" storm system, perfect for movie/series watching by the fireplace. So far we've gotten hooked by Ted Lasso, viewed the documentary about the US presidential war room during the week of 9/11, and watched the Broadway production of Come From Away. I'd say we're getting our money's worth.
It's been quiet here as the kids have gone home with the exception of B and S, who can't leave due to covid restrictions at their destination. They've gone to spend the week with friends in Vancouver. I've spent a fair amount of time painting and taking online classes. I have been a follower of Lian Quan Zhen for years, studying with him in Spokane and Portland. A second Spokane class was cancelled due to the pandemic and he, like many artists, went the Zoom route. I generally find these classes too expensive for what they offer, but there have been exceptions. I found this one geared to his previous students and all the introductory information provided in the pre class video, so we spent the actual instructional time learning new things. I like the way he encourages us to come up with our own placement of objects, so everybody's composition is slightly different. It was nice to work larger, too, ending up with a 16x20 painting.
It’s easier and far less expensive framing-wise when a painting is a commercially standard size. I sell my pet portraits matted so they can be popped into a widely available standard 11x14 frame. Many artists use the oddly sized traditional paper measurements that can only be custom framed, which can be quite pricy. And don't you hate it when that happens? I cut my paper to fit standard sizes.
It’s getting to be that time, when Christmas gift commissions start coming in. If you know someone who is interested please comment or dm me on my artist’s page on Instagram. Matted 8x10 custom originals, for 11x14 frames, great gifts for $150-$200 including North American shipping. Finished paintings also available with a good selection of matted paintings for 8x10 frames for $40-$70 plus shipping.
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