I can’t believe it has already been almost a month since I was back in Oregon celebrating Christmas with my family! My entire time in Oregon was amazing and full of wonderful memories, one of those great memories being the painting party I had with my favorite ladies during my first week back home.
Knowing that I would be rushing around trying to see everyone when I returned home my mom and I began talking about ideas for how I could meet my friends all at once. My mom suggested having a painting party, which I laughed at because I am no artist, and then thought what a great idea!
Getting all your friends together to listen to someone convince you that your totally an artist as you follow along to their steps, all while drinking wine, well it is a guaranteed good time!
During our three hour class three important things happened. I laughed so hard I thought I might pee my pants, I seriously regretted my decision to attempt a painting, and I learned 5 very important things.
1. The possibilities are endless with a blank canvas
At the start of the class we were all seated at individual stations with everything set up and ready to go. I am pretty sure at this point we were all feeling pretty confident that we were going to nail our paintings and walk home with a masterpiece.
Our instructor, poor guy didn’t know what he signed up for.

As we sat listening to the instructor tell us the first few steps the sound of giggles and comments like “oh crap, I am screwed” filled the room. I am pretty sure our instructor knew he was in for a long day, but hey at least we were a fun bunch there to have a good time!
2. My friend is pregnant
My friend surprised us all by telling us she was pregnant! She chose an apron that had a somewhat creepy image of what was suppose to be a baby inside the womb and once she put it on she jumped in the middle of the room with her hands in the air to tell us all. I am so happy I caught this moment on camera and couldn’t be more excited for her. I am looking forward to meeting their little one this summer!
3. Drinking wine brings out the artist in everyone
One of the best things about the painting class was that we were able to bring in our own snacks and drinks. Throughout the session we were given little breaks, aka mimosa refill time. Not sure if all those mimosas helped my painting skills or not but it sure was a blast!



Some of us had a bit too much fun, but hey its my party, I do what I want.
4. My sisters are the artists in the family

This may have to do a bit with the fact that they actually paid attention while I, well you can see what I was busy doing in point 3. I seriously considering swapping one of my sisters painting with mine, but then I came back to reality and realized no one would ever believe I painted it so I let my sisters keep their masterpieces.
5. A painting class with my friends and family was the best welcome home party ever!
This really was a highlight of my trip. Many of these wonderful ladies I have know basically my entire life and it was so great to have them all around me again. I felt so special and loved that they all came out to see me, one of the best welcome home parties ever.
And in case you were wondering what happened to my beautiful masterpiece, well you better believe I bubble wrapped that stunning piece of art and brought it back to Iceland!
H is so proud of his little artist. Although he did comment as we were hanging it up that this was just temporary, I think what he meant was that it was just temporary in the bedroom, soon it will be in the living room for all to see and admire:)
Question of the Day?
Have you ever gone to a painting class/party? To my fellow expats, do you have welcome home parties when you visit home?



