Paint the Town Red

Saturday turned out to be one of my most favorite days in past weeks! Why? Because I was free! The day started with the library. Andrew and Alora and I headed to Decatur Public Library to sign up for the Summer Reading Program. The kids will be able to earn prizes and coupons for reading this summer. They had a mini carnival there so the kids had fun as we played and checked out the books there. Next, I got to mow grass! This doesn't sound that exciting but when you have been couped up inside for so long, grass mowing sounds like a sunny afternoon soaking up the rays and breathing in the outdoors! Finally, Andrew and I had Date Night! This was by far the most exciting thing. My brother was displaying three pieces of his art at a venue in Birmingham called "Paint the Town Red" sponsored by the American Red Cross. So, Andrew and I headed out about 5pm for Birmingham. We grabbed some Arby's on the way, blasted the techno jive music and talked about all the fun we would have.

The entire event was outside and there were large screens for the invited artists to display there work. There were screens along the street like this one and the rest of the art work was shown, projected in local store windows. It was so cool. There were booths set up and food and entertainment. A very lively atmosphere. Shown upon is one of David's pieces.

While we were there we ran into some old friends. First, this is Ollie. Isn't she a cutie? She is up for adoption so if you are interesdted in taking home the sweetest dog of all time let me know. I happen to know her foster mother. : ) Ollie is quite the dancer and check out her very chic outfit!

Ollie's foster mother is a friend of mine, Tara! We ran into her as we were walking down the street. It was so good to see and visit with her.

Momo, Dad and Mom came also and we had a blast walking up and down the streets to view the artwork.

One of the things that I have been dying to try is a cupcake from Urban Standard. In urban areas such as New York City, cupcakes are the thing and I hear about the fabulous tasty treats from Amanda all the time. My brother told me about Urban Standard months ago and their cupcakes. Andrew and I ordered red velvet cupcakes and, I must say, they were quite tasty! Andrew licked the foil and didn't leave a crumb. We give red velvet cupcakes and the new urban cupcake craze--2 Thumbs Up!

Andrew was so excited to see his friend, Jonathan, there. He met Jonathan at Mimi and Bebe's house the last time he was there for a visit. He really liked Jonathan and enjoyed seeing him again at the Art Show.

Andrew made lots of friends! He was talking so mature and meeting all of Unc's friends. Here he is having a very lively discussion with Libby.

There was a text messaging vote that took place and there were also qualified judges who voted on the art. I know there were over 60 piceces of art work displayed, short film, photographs and fine art. When the night was over David won the text messaging vote for this work called "Emersion".

And the winner of Best In Show Fine Arts category is......David Jolley for this work called "Ona". Congratulations, UNC! We were thrilled. He is a fabulous artist and he deserves it. As I looked around at all the other art work I realized that David is unique. There just isn't anything like it out there. I am excited about the opportunities he is getting to show and share his art!

Andrew and I didn't get home until midnight! Wow, it has been a long time since I stayed out that late but we had a blast painting the town red!