Wwwwow...that was quite the learning experience. Seven weeks of burning the candle at both ends, and I've managed to survive.  Maybe a bit frayed at the edges, but no-worse-for-wear! Now that the whole ordeal is in the past, I can divulge the details. In early March I got a tip (from my good friend TheJugglingOctopus) that there was an opening on a project in Boston. The New England Aquarium has been busy since November (2012) taking apart the artificial reef in the huge central saltwater tank in order to replace it with a new design.  Basically repairing and improving the entire environment for the hundreds of fish, rays, and sea turtles that inhabit the Ocean Life exhibit. When the project began to fall behind schedule it opened up opportunities for artists who could help get things back on track.  I must admit that I hesitated to apply at first. I was already working a night job...and then there was the daily trek into Boston...starting at 5:15 every morning (AND the awful drive back to Rhode Island each afternoon)!  Needless to say I couldn't resist the chance to help create something that will be looked upon and enjoyed by thousands of people over the next fifty years!  So I started work on March 11th and was part of a team that was given the eviable task of creating the Elkhorn coral that would crown the top of the new reef.  The process moved at a hectic pace up to and including last week (ending April 26th) and I'm pleased to say that it was a complete success! The Elkhorn look glorious atop the reef, and I'm proud of my small contribution.  Having said that...I'm happy I got the job, but I'm also VERY glad it is over!

On a somber note...yes...I was in Boston when the bombings occurred...and was at work on April 19th when the city was locked-down.  Watertown is a few miles from the building in which we were working. It was eerie seeing the streets of Boston silent and deserted. Not something I am ever likely to forget.  My prayers go out to the victims and their families.

*long breath*

Time continues to move forward and Life with it.  I'm looking forward with renewed energy to creating new pieces to share. I will try to catch up on my Traveller Challenges...and create new Star Wars pieces as well.  I also have a few commissions that I'm eager to get started on.  Good to "see" you all again, my friends!

As a side note: My good friend Gus McPherson (TheJugglingOctopus) has been working on the New England Aquarium project since November of last year.  I'm proud to say that his creative talents produced some of the most inspiring pieces of the reef that is now taking shape at the aquarium. The official unveiling of the new Ocean Life environment will take place on July 4th. I encourage anyone in New England (and beyond) to come and take a look!