Personal Art Blog

Sharing the lessons I teach at the Artist Guild and the personal discoveries in my art.

Sunday, April 24, 2016

Yellow Roses And 1,000 Posts

Yellow Rose #1
6"x 6" oil on canvas panel $110  SOLD


It is rose season.
I managed to get two paintings
completed before the petals fell.
Thank you for sharing your
beautiful roses, Joan.


Artist Note.
I am giving myself a
pat on the back today.
This is my 1,000 post.
I had a shock when I saw
it on the sidebar.
That's a big number!

Quite a while ago I went back
 and deleted some of the
images/posts I thought were
ones I wished I had not shown.
I had gone 488 days without
missing a post, and the
quality... or lack of it
was definitely noticeable,
 and that is
the double edged sword
of "daily painting" and
posting it.

Yes - it is a marvelous way
to improve the actual craft
of painting, but the
creative side does not always
shine through under
those circumstances.
Not for me anyway.

I started to understand
that I needed
to paint every day with
an explority curiosity.
"Good" paintings did not come
out of this, but being aware
of what I liked
 and didn't like 
sure did  - and that
helped me develop
my own style

 I maintain the habit
of painting or sketching daily
Some paintings are
 definitely better than others
..just like some days
are better than others!

The enjoyment for me
is always
with the immersion
into paint and process.

Please share with me what
makes you happy about painting.
The process or the results?


62 comments:

  1. Good Sunday afternoon Julie, As usual, you have a beautiful painting posted and congratulations on your 1,000 post. You are spot on seeing earlier paintings and wanting them back. So glad to know someone else is in that boat. I must always remember it as a building block, the best I could do at that time. (Wish I could take credit for that statement, smiles.)

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    1. Thanks for the congrats, Blanche. LOL - together...we share a lot including a love of birds!
      Yep - the best at that particular time. So true isn't it?
      Hope you are painting....

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  2. Dear Julie, process is my magic moment....I love risk and I'm so happy if ,after my brainstorming with colors and supplies, comes out something good. I study, I experiment ...beauty of results is less important than process knowledge and my emotional side. Congratulations for your great work on art and on blogger..You paint, you write, you teach, you tell....
    All this, you gift to us, with deepness, wisdom and verve. Thank you, grazie mille!!!

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    1. I love that...process is your magic moment.
      You are an inspiration, in your work and life, dear Rita. The ability to take risk is a gift and that is why you love it. I had to learn "not" to want everything to be done as right as possible! Once I really did get to the place where I could tell myself -know no fear - then I could really start learning.
      I can see your adventurous spirit at work in your stunning anemone painting. Your trip to see Cy Tombloy's work brought out your love of risk. Thanks for the great comment.

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  3. Congratulations!!
    I think you know that I read EVERY post of you, although I don't comment all you show. I love to read what you tell us as much as I enjoy your wonderful pictures and I am thankful for what I can learn from you.
    To your question:
    The process is what makes me happy - in case the result is good I'm even more happy :)
    Beate

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    1. After looking at this last post of yours, Beo, I can see you truly love the "process."
      I was fascinated by the wonderful step by step pics you shared and noticed a great sense of design as well as color harmony in them all.
      The yellow in the hydrangea pic was especially to my taste.
      Thank you for the lovely words about my blog.

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  4. Hi Julie,what a great post...wow 1000! For me it's definitely the process, my way of painting is always risky as to whether I will end up with something good. I guess I'm on about a 70% hit rate, but I can't think of a single painting or drawing I've done where I didn't discover something and as frustrating as it can be sometimes, I don't think I could do it any other way without getting bored :) I could also never get bored of looking at your artwork :)

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    1. I can tell it is the process you love by looking at your work, Leesa. I also understand about the learning/discovering from everything you do. Me too, but I wonder why I repeat some of the dumb ones. The bored part is a genuine issue for me too.
      I look with awe at artists who only paint flowers or portraits for example and know I just couldn't do it. Wish I could many a time. Looking forward to seeing your next painting. You are due!

      .

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    2. Wow! 1000 blog posts! Incredible. I love it when the light comes on as I'm painting something and I know how to do it. It's always exciting to me to see when things start to take shape!

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    3. You explain so well how to take advantage of the "light coming on" your new post, Sharon. Being aware and receptive is what it is all about.
      Thanks for the 1,000 post kudos.

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  5. 'Congrats to YOU!!! That is GREAT NEWS.
    This painting is so full of LIFE!
    Thanks for always sharing your artistic talents with us on BLOGGER = )

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    1. Thanks so much, Sue. Always the "sharer" you are very generous with your fellow painters. I am always eager to see your explorations in paint.

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  6. Julie,

    Congratulations on the milestone and the general "keeping at it." Sticktoitiveness?

    I liked your point about daily posting and the level of quality that results from that constancy. We aren't always at our best are we? Daily posting is definitely a warts and all sort of thing and no one seems to talk about that much.

    I liked too what you wrote about going at the sketching and painting on a consistent basis, with a mind open to exploration, and how that attitude helped to develop your tastes.

    Thanks also for asking the last question. I like the problem solving aspect of what I do. Much of art making is about solving problems I think, like a puzzle. I also like the skills that I pick up and the revelations that come to me. Bringing unrelated parts together, forming an idea, and coming out with something new entirely is appealing to me as well. And lastly, I like writing about all of the above. That is part of the process for me too.

    Thank you for a great post! It made me think:)
    Libby

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    1. I am please we are in agreement about what I wrote. I know i have seen you grow through several developments in your paintings and along the way you always questioned and pushed the safety zone. I admired that and have been a devoted follower of your journey in Paint and Words.
      The last picture post recording your trip to Hoover dam and gorgeous Utah was every bit as enjoyable because of your writing skills. I definitely hope you let me know if you come to New Mexico. Would love to meet you.

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  7. Congratulations on the posts and the painting.What you say is true, some of our paintings are not A+, but I feel it is the road we are traveling. Having said that, I am down to posting only 2 times a week. Still painting everyday, but not completing everyday. It takes the pressure off, gives me an opportunity to decide what to post and what not too. I also think my blog readers burn out with more frequent postings. Process or results? With me, if I enjoy the process, I usually love the results and vice versa.

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    1. Agreed - you have worked out a perfect routine that you can continue to grow as an artist. So important isn't it?
      I loved seeing the results of the workshop you took...do I see a similarity to Ovanes Berbarian and the Russian plein air school??
      That is another way we grow isn't it? taking a workshop from an excellent artist. Thanks for the input carol. I do appreciate it.

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  8. Congratulations Julie! That is wonderful. It has to be process for me because outcome is mostly tossing it in the trash. That's with oils. Acrylics are kinder to me most of the time. With watercolors I can sometimes find a piece of the painting that is good and cut it into a smaller painting or an art card. I often cringe when I look at a photo of a painting I did and gave to someone because I thought it was good at the time but now I see all the flaws in that photo. I often hope they took it home and threw it away.

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    1. I understand about Acrylic being kinder. There is something neat about being able to alter and improve without destroying the surface quality. I have no logical reason why I love the oil paints so much I am the same with watercolors - easy to crop.
      LOL I totally understand - I, too, also cringe!
      This whole topic of process is interesting especially when I see you try something new. I think your use of the palette knife for painting the rocks added a lot to the surface texture and your shading was excellent. I hope to see you do more.
      Thanks so much for participating in the dialog.

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  9. 1000 posts? wooooo!

    Do you ever paint one painting exactly the way you imagined it? are you ever 100% happy with a work? Funny isn't it that we seldom achieve it all, but it doesn't stop us trying.

    Love the Yellow Roses

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    1. I see it in my mind very clearly and then halfway through it takes on a life of its own. That is different than when i was an illustrator. I had to follow what the art director gave me...no diverting into what I wanted. Nope - John - I have never had a painting that I was 100 percent happy with, but I have recognized progress with deep satisfaction of liking it.
      That is more important than wanting a "perfect" painting.
      Will your boat be perfect? Are you allowed anything that is not?
      Safety, and all that.

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  10. Beautiful painting Julie! I love your discoveries too! I have discovered I'm not a daily painter. I have had the same experience with losing enthusiasm when painting every day. So I call myself a "batch painter" for lack of a better term. I can paint like crazy for 3-4 days and get a lot done and then I have to do something else. I used to worry that I didn't have what it takes to be a professional artist because I would push myself and then burnout. Now I just go with my own way and am super happy about it! And, I love both, the process and the result! Thanks for your post and sharing your beautiful paintings with us!

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    1. Thats a great term...batch painter! I will remember that, Ginny.
      It gives you a lot of power when you can analyze your work habits and find a successful solution. Knowing you enjoy both the process and the results adds even more to your confidence and it shows in your work. Your new mother cow with calf is beautifully painted. Thanks for the great comment.

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  11. Wow!! 1000 posts! And each one a joy to read and a gift to learning artists! What I enjoy most I guess is when (if) I hit that 'sweet spot' during the process when I know the piece is coming together or I finally figure out how to fix something that's bothering me. (Then I try not to mess it up!) Wishing you (and us!) many more posts....you are a treasure!

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    1. What a lovely comment - thanks for the warm fuzzy.
      I recognize what you mean by sweet spot of knowing all is well.
      Wish I always got it. I love the physical paint itself. And COLOR... my soft spot. So your rose hit me right where it matters. What a beautiful job you did with your warm and cool reds!

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  12. Wow Congratulations! I look forward to every single post!

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    1. Thanks Kim - that is nice of you.
      Congratulations for getting best of show with Odd Man Out.
      Fabulous painting.

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  13. Yes, quite an accomplishment indeed! For me the process without expectations of a result is where the magic lies, but when I finish a painting and am pleased, I feel a nice sense of accomplishment:)

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    1. You are right about the magic. perfect word.
      You should be feeling a nice sense of accomplishment a lot because your work is at that level. Looking forward to every post.
      Have you wound down after the plein air trip to Cuba. Lucky gal!

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  14. Congratulations!!! 1000 Post it's really a lot :) Hope to see another 1000 (your painting) and even more.

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    1. Thank you for such a nice comment.
      I was thrilled to see you painted storks in a nest. I have never seen one but was raised with stories about them.

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  15. Oh my Julie a thousand posts. What an accomplishment. I am so glad to be able to visit you and enjoy your gorgeous art. These golden roses are fabulous. Your practice and dedication to your art really shows. To answer your question as to the process versus the results. I have such a love of drawing and painting that it most definitely is the process. Always wonderful too if the results work out well but even when I don't achieve what I wanted I still enjoyed the journey. Thank you sweet friend for each lovely post. I know I would surely miss them if you stopped. Hugs!

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    1. You are so warm and encouraging, Debbie. Thank you. it doesnt surprise me that it is the process for you. Time stands still when I pick up a brush and nothing else quite does that for me.
      I loved your beautiful April post and seeing the eagle made my day! What a thrill.

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  16. I enjoy the process the most. Having good results is a bonus! ;-)
    Your lovely yellow roses remind me of the ones growing beside my Grandma's house. Makes my heart glad to remember that. Thank you!

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    1. Ah - you too like the process best. We are lucky to have art in our lives aren't we?
      Lovely of you to visit and share. Thanks Kathleen.

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  17. Congratulations on your accomplishment,Julie. Not only on your 1000 posts, but also your ongoing quest for adventure. I don't believe you ever stand still, physically or creatively! Knowing you has provided me a continuing source of inspiration, and along with others who follow your blog, I've received boundless encouragement.
    Time and again you inspire me to move beyond my safe zone, providing a daily example of artistic exploration. And, yes, like you, I've posted paintings then deleted them after a sober second thought. That shows growth,I think, or at least growing discernment. Part of what I value about being part of the DPW community is the opportunity to see my paintings within a peer group that is larger than my local one -- to see how I measure up, for want of a better term.
    Your yellow roses are luscious. They are indeed a fitting bouquet for your landmark post! Cheers, Julie.

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    1. That is pretty powerful isn't it - the power of discernment? Yes that is how we know we have grown. It is hard to see at the time exactly how the painting really is, but after a while certain handy hints are available to have a check list.
      I agree about the DPW community. What I like is they have a full range of skill levels. I wish I had more time to participate in the things they offer. I think Carol Marine is a jewel in the crown of Artland. She encourages and demonstrates with skill and generosity. And David is a marvel to build and run the platform we are able to sell from. Glad you appreciate what they have achieved, too.
      You can imagine how thrilled I was to see the stunning crow painting you did. I caught my breath on first glimpse. Good for you, Helen, it is a winner!
      Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this interesting subject of process.

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  18. This looks like you've captured sunshine, Julie! Beautiful!!! Like you, I try to paint/sketch every day. When I don't the world doesn't feel right. I think I enjoy the process but when it starts to really work and my vision starts to come through. Of course I like the results too.

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    1. Hi Joan, glad you like it - thanks.
      I see a lot of artists like the process more than the finished results. It is like a bonus it it ends up good isn't it?
      For example - your five minute sketches. Is the the challenge of working fast knowing you cannot complete everything or is it the sketchy finish you like? Let me know. I enjoyed seeing all those five minute ones, and amazed you got two figures done in one of them,

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  19. Congratulations on you 1000 posts and this beautiful rose painting!! I think the same as you about posting paintings every day, a lot of mine have been wiped or binned over the last few years. I still paint everyday but post once a week....I found it stressful and therefore the paintings were not great! I have always been inspired by your lovely work and reading your blog...thank you for sharing so much!!

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    1. Thank YOU for sharing this, Karen. Stress is not good because art comes from the soul and if the stress of deadlines are there it makes it more like punishment than pleasure. I am with you a hundred percent. I had deadlines when I was an illustrator and boy was that total stress/pressure. I appreciate and cheris the lovely complement, too.

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  20. I always love yellow and grey and the touches of peach are so delicious! Beautiful painting to celebrate!
    Congratulations on your 1000 post Julie and I wish you a 1000 more!! Your blog is a continued source of inspiration.
    For me the process is what I love the most about painting. It keeps me going and feel so happy when I can paint and doodle.

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    1. I agree - I think the peach made the yellow look better. The buds really were that color and I noticed the roses without the buds near them didn't glow quite as much.
      I understand about how just feeling the paint can make us happy.
      Thanks for the nice words, Celia. I love your work and following your journey in paint.

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  21. Wow! First of all, the painting! It is stunning, so much so that I came over here from Facebook to leave a comment and buy it, but it was already sold (not surprising). It just glows with joy.

    Second of all congratulations on post number 1000. You deserve the pat on the back and more! I also deleted older posts I didn't like on my blog too and I've had guilt over it ever since. However, not anymore. If Julie deletes posts, then I can too! :)

    About your question. I enjoy the process of pushing paint around. I love how you can easily reshape things with oil paints...face too fat?...just scrape away those chubby cheeks, and OH, now look at that pretty face. Chair legs uneven? Wipe it off, put it in the right place (thank you Julie, I use my tool all the time). And with acrylics I love the layering, the scrubbing, and dabbing and the ease of them because they dry so fast. I used to always love the result more than the process, but that is changing as time goes on. It is most rewarding now when I can show a painting and say "with this one, I learned to...".

    Congratulations on this absolutely gorgeous painting and your 1,000th blog post. We should have a party!

    xoxo

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    1. What a FABULOUS comment, Lisa. Thanks for taking the time to write such a complete reply to my question.
      You say it so well...I had a smile reading it and could see those chubby cheeks disappearing! (I agree, the tool is great and couldn't do without it.) I have read that stage one is trying to make it like a photo and stage two is going beyond into the materials as well as the image. The last stage is painting just for the pure pleasure of the process with no regard for the outcome. Just let everything you know and feel come out. Apparently it will be good. next question is...good to our eyes or someone else's' eyes?
      Thanks for the kudos on my bog. Love you Lisa!

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  22. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better....another WOW piece ! Love, love the warm sunshine colors . A definite worthy 1000th painting . ( I wonder if this last sentence even makes sense ?? )

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    1. yes - it makes sense. You are so nice - thanks, Jane. Good luck with your move.

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  23. Congrats Julie. I love and appreciate how generous you are with your knowledge. And I agree about Daily Paintworks. I cannot paint every day but what I love about my painting times is moving color about, creating my colors, blending, adding to a painting, subtracting. It is just a wonderful thing to be able to do.

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    1. You and I both love moving that paint around. We are similar in many ways so I am not surprised.
      How are you doing now? painting I hope.
      Thanks for the nice words of praise.

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    2. I forgot to say your brilliant new post has the perfect description and painting of the process being important. Even our timing is the same. great minds think alike.

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  24. congrats on all the posts!!

    def the process when making art, the final work is really not what helps an artist grow. its the work put in to it that does

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    1. You put it perfectly. Good with words aren't you, Jennifer? Have you always been that way?
      Thanks for the congrats!

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    2. lol not really, its probably from reading all the time :p

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  25. Congratulations on 1000 posts Julie! Amazing! Unfortunately I don't paint every day but I paint more often than before and I enjoy it so much! Even though I enjoy painting with oils I love painting with pastels more!
    I love these yellow roses ...an excellent painting!

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    1. Good to know you are painting more often. I think we are the same, and get into a special zone where time stands still. I think the reason you like pastels best is because it is what you are best at. Your soul shines through in your beautiful work.

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  26. Your painting is absolutely beautiful. The yellows just glow, and the composition is well structured to capture attention with great shapes and bold color. It's process for me, too, Julie. The painting leads me on a path as I do when we travel. I know where I want to go, but along the way there are opportunities to try alternative "routes" (methods) to get where I'm going. Sometimes, the "trip" is modified or even abandoned until another time. But, it is the journey that teaches me and lets me enjoy the destination.

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    1. I love the way you described your process.
      Brilliant!
      The journey teaches...
      Your wonderful new painting of the warbler has a neat contemporary "pattern" feel to it. Makes me want to try something flat and abstract.
      Thanks for great comment.

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  27. Just I would say WOW. I love roses but of all its colors I love yellow roses more. This painting is absolutely gorgeous. Congratulations with your 1000th posts.

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    1. Yellow are my favorite too. My hubby never buys me red ones.
      Your single rose is lovely.
      I think watercolor gives a delicacy to the petals that i can't get in oils.

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  28. 1000 posts! omg! You are the Queen! Love these roses. Never stop blogging--the world needs all these wonderful beautiful paintings

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    1. How good it is to see you back visiting and POSTING! love your new landscape. The light and contrast are fabulous!
      Would have loved to have heard your opinion about process.
      thanks for the kudos on the big 1000.

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  29. I felt an instant little squirt of pleasure pulse through my body when these buttery little flowers came up on the screen. Nobody does roses like you......and congratulations on your 1000 post. What an achievement!

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  30. Congratulations Julie!!! Love your dedication and honest tone of your posts.... I love the process but I also love seeing how much I have accomplished after periods of time, it usually seems I am not doing enough but when I do turn around and look back I realize it does accumulate and it all counts, the good, the bad and the ugly! Thank you for your inspiration Julie!

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I love that you are taking the time to comment and thank you for it. I am sure other readers will enjoy them too. If you cannot comment through this format then email me at juliefordoliver@gmail.com
Cheers,
Julie