Other than sketching, today was my first really work hard day. It felt so good to open an ink can and smell that oil based etching ink. I worked in the print lab most of the day as a T.A. I helped 3 or so people with their etchings, taught them how to bite a plate and ink a plate to run printer's proofs off. It felt good to help people.

Then for the second half, I painted in the painting lab. I had to finish a painting I started during the summer. I got some of Jess's water based screen printing ink and applied that. The colors were so vivid. I don't think that is possible with oil paints. I guess maybe I don't really know how to use oils proficiently yet. I will get there.

Friday's senior seminar class went great. Portfolio reviews are good, but standing for an hour and a half wasn't. I was really encouraged to see what I worked so hard on (even though being called a work-aholic) get praised. I also got great input from my professors. It is finally good to achieve that after feeling like I muddled around for the first 2 years here amidst professors who didn't like my work. Vindication! It's really not that dramatic.

Also this weekend, I realized the extent of grace I receive. I realized why I suffered so much my first year at Akron. I see now the wisdom I have gained. Nothing until that year about my life was ever hard. Praise the Lord for strife and the redemption from it. I suppose now I can fully realize His blessings. A family, friends, confidence, love etc.