Richeson Family Business

Linda Richeson's Birthday

2009-11-20T12:05:00.006-06:00

BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR

LINDA RICHESON

Today was very special. Today we celebrated Linda Richeson's Birthday (Jack's Wife) with a small family gathering in our conference room at lunch. With all the craziness of running a family business, sometimes the best time to get together is at the office! With that in mind we invited Linda to stop by the office when she ran errands today.

As she pulled into the parking lot, family gathered in the conference room. Candles were lit and when Linda walked in, everyone sang Happy Birthday. It is wonderful, in the midst of the craziness of a friday, to be able to take a few moments, gather together and celebrate.

Monday, Linda heads out to Britain to see her grown children and their family's. She has grandchildren near London from her daughter Louise and husband Simon. Up near Leeds, her son Duncan and wife Viv are expecting twins any day!

Happy Birthday Linda!

FRIENDS AT ART OF THE CAROLINAS

2009-11-19T11:26:00.003-06:00

Left to Right

BRENDA MATTSON, STEVE QUILLER,

ROCKY ALEXANDER

Art of the Carolinas wrapped up on Sunday afternoon in North Raleigh, NC. The event was busy and offered over 40 instructors teaching a WIDE range of classes. I was blessed to work with three of great folks. Rocky Alexander is a NC resident. She teaches a variety of classes and workshops in NC. It was an amazing experince to have her demonstrating in the Richeson booth for three days. She taught me amazing things about our Richeson Oils I did not know!

Stephen Quiller flew in from Creede Colorado to teach Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Steve is an amazing instructor and an incredible painter. The students ALWAYS rave about his classes. Over the four days he taught watercolor, watermedia, use of color and casein. I truly hated to say good bye to our friend at the end. However, I know as much as Steve loves teaching, he was REALLY excited about going home to Creede and an early snow!

Brenda Mattson taught classes all four days also. Brenda does work with pastel that most painters only dream about! In addition Brenda taught a collage class and mixed media class. It has been exciting watching Brenda expand her teaching into the other areas! In between classes Brenda helped me in the booth. I truly don't know what I would have done without Brenda's help in the booth!

If you get a chance to attend this show next year we would love to see you!

Art of the Carolinas Event

2009-11-14T06:16:00.003-06:00

Steve Quiller Teaching Watermedia at

Art of the Carolinas

This week I have been in North Carolina at preparing for the Art of the Carolinas Show. For anyone who is not familiar with this event, it is a great way to take classes and see what's new in Art Materials.

My good friend Stephen Quiller is here this week teaching a variety of classes over a four day period. We tease him and refer to him as "The Maestro". He truly is an amazing painter and teacher. My dream is to one day have the time to take classes from Steve instead of always being a spectator.

To learn more about Steve and his work go to www.quillergallery.com

Art of the Carolinas Show

2009-11-08T15:18:00.002-06:00

Another week on the road. I am quickly learning that a once a week post on the Blog is more realistic than daily!!! Tomorrow I leave for Charoltte NC. I visit customers and have the joy of visiting in the evening with my brother David's family.

David is not part of the family business. Some days I think it shows HE is the smart one!

Wednesday I head to Raleigh for the Art of the Carolinas Show. If you happen to be in the Raleigh area, consider stopping in Friday, saturday or Sunday to see. us. We are the the North Raleigh Hilton.

My good friend Steve Quiller will be teaching classes in water media. Still plenty of time to register! He is an amazing instructor.

Hope to see you there!

JACK'S 77TH BIRTDAY PARTY

2009-10-29T16:18:00.002-05:00

GETTING READY TO BLOW OUT THE CANDLES!

This week was special. We celebrated my dad - Jack's 77th birthday with a small family gathering. Now you must remember that with the Richeson's, even a small family gathering is usually 20 or more. This night was no different.

Hard to believe Jack started in the Art Materials business when he was only 16 years old. That's 61 years ago! The industry has changed in more ways then you can imagine in that time. Still I can't think of a single person in this industry with as much knowledge on Artist Materials as my dad.

If you are ever curious about what the industry looked like in the 1950's...you must get a copy of his book -"Confessions of a Brush Peddler". It is truly an amazing read!

NEW!!! Richeson Oil Mediums

2009-10-27T16:06:00.004-05:00

Richeson Oil Mediums and Richeson Oils

Just got images from our art department today on the packaging for our Richeson Oil Mediums. If you have never had an opportunity to try them, I am confident you will be pleased! These mediums are the perfect partner for the Richeson Oils introduced in August this year. The positive feedback has been exciting for everyone here!

One note on the Oils...if you get frustrated by the oil at the top of New tubes of color, you will be thrilled with the Richeson Oils. We allow the color to rest for between 60 and 120 days after milling. This allows for maximum absorbtion of the oil into the pigment. After "resting" for an appropriate period of time, we test the oils, remove any excess oil and remill if needed before tubing, bringing artists only the best of the best!

Call us at 800/233-2404 for a dealer near you!

Learning and Product Expo Set Up Day

2009-10-17T11:21:00.002-05:00

TRADE SHOW SET UP

Thursday was Set Up day for the Pasadena Learning and Product Show. It always amazes me how things look before all the booths are set up and ready for the artists. It looks like an impossible task! There is skid after skid of product waiting for the vendors to transform the space into a beautiful high energy store for the artists to shop.

This particular event has a long history in Pasadena. Started in the late 1970's by the Blacher Brothers. At that time the show was known as Tools of the Trade. The purpose of the show was to give artists a chance to try and experience product they may not be familiar with.

Tomorrow - pictures of the show after set up,

Pasadena Here I Come!

2009-10-13T09:50:00.003-05:00

This past two weeks has been insane! Back to School is in full force for our dealers.....Tensions are high as we work to improve our dealer services to new heights of excellence.

In the midst of this, the Fall Teacher State Art Ed conferences are now in full swing. My brother Mike and Debbie in Sales are on the road until Thanksgiving. Steve just returned from an amazing event at Savannah College of Art (More on this soon), and I just landed in a wet and cool S. California(Dog gone it! I was hoping for sun!)

Oh yeah! I can't forget Jack (my dad) and Linda! They are in Newport Beach area for the National Watercolor Society annual event......which I understand was incredible!

The economy has meant doing more with less. We are travelling more, working later at night so we can get done what we would have done during the day. This next 12 monbths looks to be challenging but exciting. In talking with dealers yesterday....we all take a step back....touch our skin and realize...WE HAVE SURVIVED!!!!

As reports that economic recovery us starting but slow.....we are all still here. We have life to fight again another day!

NEW - KINSTLER MEDIUMS - NEW!!!!!

2009-09-22T13:27:00.008-05:00

KINSTLER ALKYD and STUDIO PAINTING MEDIUMS

A number of years ago I had the honor of meeting one of today's greatest living portrait painters. It is a name I am sure many of you know...Everett Raymond Kinstler. The event was the third annual Art of the Portrait Conference. I was working the booth when a hush came over the room. In swept a man who is bigger than life. You instantly knew you were in the presence of greatness! My Dad - Jack had known Ray for sometime and brought me over for a personal introduction. It was an honor I will never forget.

A few years later, I had the privlege of visiting Ray's studio on Grammercy Park with my dad. It was an experience that defies explaination. To see a studio of Everett Raymond Kinstler.....AWESOME!!!!!!

To think that now our company has available Alkyd and Studio Painting mediums under the Kinstler name is truly exciting. For more information or to find out where you can purchase, please e-mail me at colleen@richesonart.com

PARTIAL BIO -

EVERETT RAYMOND KINSTLER is a native New Yorker who began his career at age 16, drawing comic books and hundreds of book and magazine illustrations, as well as covers for paper back books. As one of the "golden age" era of comic book artists, his illustrations for magazines, including The Shadow and Doc Savage, have influenced the pop art school.

Mr. Kinstler has painted more than 50 cabinet officers, more than any artist in the country's history. Six Presidents--Richard Nixon, Gerald R. Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton have posed for him. His portraits of Ford and Reagan are the official White House portraits.

Mr. Kinstler is currently painting the official mayoral portrait of former NYC Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. Recently complete portraits include Sen. Robert Dole for the U.S. Senate; Neil Rudenstine, former president of Harvard University; Judith Rodin, former president of the University of Pennsylvania; and Donald Trump.

For Mr. Kinstlers complete Bio go to - http://www.everettraymondkinstler.com/

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

2009-09-21T13:35:00.005-05:00

UK ON SATURDAY

MARATHON ON SUNDAY!!!!

I suspect when most people think about "Life in the Fast Lane", they are thinking Fast Cars, lost of money, and parties. When you are involved in a family business, life in the fast lane takes on an ENTIRELY different meaning!

Saturday morning I was gazing out a Hotel window in the UK....at 2:30pm I boarded an overseas flight for Minneapolis. I got home about 10pm Saturday night. Sunday Morning at 5:15 am we were headed for the Fox Cities Marathon where my husband Greg and I did a 13.1 mile walk and my son Scott(pictured with us above) did a 26 mile run. This is MY life in the fast lane.

In a family business you sometimes can't just walk out the door at 5pm...sometimes work overflows into the evening and weekends.....still to keep life in order and meaningful, Family and those issues in life one is passionate about MUST have a Priority. Sometimes that means a smidge less sleep and a craziness at times. It is a balance I often fail to achieve but know deep in my heart must be strived for.

I am grateful for the craziness.....thankful for family and that in a crazy world, we have work!

MAKING PROFESSIONAL WATERCOLOR PAPER

2009-09-17T10:26:00.005-05:00

THE PROCESS

The visit to the Mill that makes our paper was amazing. Although I had seen it before, l learn something new with each visit. The images above give you just a glimpse of the process. The top image shows all the ingredients being broken down in a large VAT. The middle image shows the process a bit down the line as the newly formed paper is being heat dried. As the paper moves along the rollers the heat intensifies. The bottom image shows the paper coming off the machine The cream colored surface is the felts that give the papers their amazing surface.

The Papers made for Richeson are "Mould Made Papers". This process creates a paper as close to hand made as psossible without being hand made. The lifting ability and strength of this paper is phenomonal....another great feature is the paper does not emit an order when wet.

If you are interested in more information on the Mould Made papers offered at JRC please e-mail me at

colleen@richesonart.com.

PAPER MILL VISIT

2009-09-16T16:55:00.003-05:00

WATER INLET FROM THE RIVER AXE

Today was a fantastic day! I spent the day at the Mill that produces our Premium Watercolor papers. If you had asked me when I was 25 if I would enjoy spending a day at a factory, I would most likely have looked at you as if you had lost a few marbles. Today I LOVE exploring the factories we use for our specialized product!

This day was a day of learning! The picture above is from a small inlet that draws water from the River Axe. This particular river is especially suited to making non alkeline papers for the fine art market due to the mineral deposits in the water from the Limestone located in the Mendip Hills. It is from these Hills, the river obtains run off containing mineral deposits

More tomorrow on other stages of the paper making process!

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

2009-09-15T13:09:00.005-05:00

BEAUTIFUL WELLS ENGLAND

Yesterday I left home for beautiful Wells England. Seems like I was just in this part of the world! Oh yeah! I was!!!!! After being home for a little over a week from our Scotland workshop an opportunity presented itself for me to visit our paper mill and attend a Printmaking Conference in Bristol England. I arrived in London this morning and drove to wells.

The pictures above are from this classic medevial style town. The Cathedral in Wells is known arounf the world. I love walking the grounds and enjoying the trip back in time. The last picture is from the courtyard of my hotel. You can almost imagine ladies walking in long gowns and horses tied near by.

Tomorrow I will post some images from the tour of the papermill.

NEW! ECO FRIENDLY GESSO SLUDGE!!!!

2009-09-11T09:38:00.005-05:00

f GESSO RESPONSIBLY!

100% Recycled Waste Pigments!!!

Here it is! Hot off the Presses! This Cool exciting new product has not even hit OUR shelves yet. Our first order is due in two weeks. We are excited beyond belief!! Tri-Art of Canada produces this HIGH quality gesso from 100% recycled waste pigments remaining from runs of acrylic production. Instead of disposing of the "waste", the material is used to manufacture a VERY high quality "Green Product". The end result is an amazing gesso with more pigment solids!

The Gesso Sludge will always be made to a neutral shade of grey. Colors will vary from batch to batch. Call our office at 800/233-2404 to learn which dealers are climbing on the early roll out. I am convinced once you try this product you will never want anything else.

THOUGHTS ON A CRAZY WEEK

2009-09-10T17:15:00.003-05:00

ST ABBS HEAD

SCOTLAND

If you have been following the blog you know I recently returned from a few weeks in the Scottish Highlands with Maggie Price's Pastel Workshop. Like most folks after an extended time away from the office, chaos reins at my desk. Everyone who has ever taken a vacation or had to travel away for business knows, life does not stop because you are away.

The bills pile up, the list of calls to return has grown to unbelievable lengths, and life has gone on in our absence. This week has been full of tying up loose ends for the upcoming Learning and Art Expo in Pasadena, preparing for 6 other upcoming trade shows, introductions of new product....all on a deadline.

As I was on a call, my cell was ringing, a line of staff stood at my desk and I hear the page overhead for me to call another department on an urgent issue. As the dust began to settle, I poured myself a cup of hot tea, pulled a Shortbread from my recent trip from the desk drawer, closed my eyes and dreamed about my trip next year back to Scotland. The image above of the Pirates cove area near St Abb's Head in Scotland is one of my very favorite places in Scotland.

If all goes well, Maggie will be taking a group there next year. Dreaming a little dream goes a long way to settling a stressed mind and body on a day like today. Consider joining Maggie in St. Abbs for the real thing in September 2010.

OUR LAST 24 HOURS IN SCOTLAND

2009-09-09T10:41:00.007-05:00

COACH DRIVER GRAHAM AND BILL CANRIGHT
DINNER THE LAST NIGHT

It has been a week since I have been able to post anything. Unfortunately the trip back, jet lag and the Labor Day weekend all played a part in keeping me from my appointed task! I returned to the office on Tuesday after the Holiday weekend to a stack of work and e-mails that I suspect require 24 hours a day for a month to weed through (Ok..Richeson's exaggerate!).

Our last evening in Scotland as you can see from a previous Blog we were treated to a Piper bringing in the Haggis and making the Traditional Scottish Address to the Haggis. The pictures I have posted above are from a couple of our tables at the last night dinner.

Last is a picture of Maggie's Husband Bill and our Faithful Coach driver Graham. Graham was great...always on time and ever patient...he would go where few coaches are ever asked to go....places such as Sma'Glen in the Highlands covered with heather...just so a bunch of dedicated pastelists could experience something most only dream of.

Maggie is looking at coming back to Scotland in 2010 and working in the coastal fishing Village of St Abbs. Follow this blog and her web site to the right for details as they are available. This is a trip you won't want to miss!

LAST NIGHT IN SCOTLAND

2009-09-02T00:43:00.007-05:00

PIPER

ADDRESSING THE HAAGIS

THE 2009 WORKSHOP GROUP

Last night was so much fun! At 1:30pm yesterday afternoon we started packing up all the painting gear for shipment back to the U.S. Painters came into our staging room in groups of four where we carefully packed up all the painting supplies. After 10 days in Scotland and lots of gifts to hand cary home I think everyone was thrilled they did not need to cpoe with getting gear on a plane on top of it all.

At 5:30pm we all met in the bar for a last night drink before dinner. At 6:00pm our Piper Stewart piped the goup into dinner in traditional Scottish style! One could not help but have goosebumps as the Piper played traditional Scottish music and the group followed through the hotel to the dining room.

After "Starters" (appetisers) the Piper returned with the chef who carriers the Haggis. The Piper marched the chef around the room as all stood in awe and paid tribute to the Haggis. Upon depositing the tray with the Haggis on a specially laid out table the Piper and the Chef toasted the Haggis with a "Wee Dram of Whiskey" then proceeded to address the Haggis with a traditional Scottish "Address to the Haggis" by Robert Burns.

Before retiring to bed we had a group photo. Unfortunately we were missing Jack & Linda Richeson, Anne, and Annette all who could only be with the group for part of the trip.

It was off to finish packing and an early night for all as the coach would be heading to the airport at 6:30am.

Kenmore Hotel Staff

2009-09-01T11:17:00.003-05:00

RECEPTION DAY STAFF

The staff at the hotel in Kenmore has been amazing. Anything we need is their pleasure to provide. I encorage anyone traveling in the area to stop and spend the night.

GLAMIS CASTLE

2009-08-31T15:28:00.005-05:00

BEAUTIFUL GLAMIS CASTLE

THATCHED COTTAGE IN THE VILLAGE OF GLAMIS

OUR PRAYING COW

Today was a wonderful day. The weather was forcast to be iffy so most decided to take sketch books and semi hard pastels. Surprisingly the weather was much better than expected. On arrival most of us toured the castle and then took a Tea Break.

While many went to sketch I took a walk into the Village of Glamis where I was delighted to find the Thatched Cottage pictured above. It is a treat to find a Thatched Cottage in Scotland. Typically most of the Thatched Cottages are found more towards the South of England.

Just before the coach departed to head back for Kenmore some of us took a few moments to visit with the Highland Cattle. I was especially delighted to find the Praying cow above!!!

Tomorrow is pack up day!

MAGGIE PRICE AND BILL CANRIGHT IN SCOTLAND

2009-08-31T14:54:00.004-05:00

MAGGIE AND BILL AT THE KENMORE HOTEL

Mornings are a great time here in Scotland. Maggie and Bill were both excited about ou prospects of a day at Glamis Castle. But breakfast come first! Everyone in the group looks forward to the breakfast buffet.

It has been such a treat having typical Scottish breakfast items available each day. The porridge is a special treat as is the mushrooms and broled tomatoes. I know that may sound strange unless you've tried it....but somehow here in Scotland it is just right! Remember to check out Maggie's blog on her web site for more updates on the workshop.

SCOTTISH MORNING BY THE FIRE

2009-08-31T12:22:00.003-05:00

MONDAY MORNING BY THE FIRE

My mornings have typically started right here! This is the fire by reception. I check my e-mail and update the blog before the group are down for breakfast each day. Hard to believe tomorrow is the last full day!

RED SQUIRREL WARNINGS!!!!!!!

2009-08-30T12:04:00.007-05:00

HOW BIG ARE THOSE RED SQUIRRELS!!!!!

The first time I ever visited this part of Scotland I noticed signs alerting travelers to watch for Red Squirrels. The explaination point on the Red edged sign made me laugh. I could only imagine Squirrels the size of Elephants threatening to crush my car.

The locals explained to me the squirrels are endangered and the signs are to caution drivers to take care and not run over the squirrels darting across the road. Still, I can't help but smile every time I pass a Red Squirrel sign and see visions of squirrels the size of elephants threatening to crush my car.

Painting Heather in the Highlands

2009-08-30T11:26:00.010-05:00

PAINTING HEATHER IN SMA'GLEN

Today was classic "PleinAire 101" ... Adjust your schedule to work with the weather. Since our arrival the weather has been one of our biggest challenges. We have seen more rain and blustery weather than I remember seeing EVER at this time of year in Scotland.

We were scheduled to be painting on the grounds of Glamis Castle(Today/Sunday). About 8:30pm last night as we were finishing dinner several of us came to the realization that our weather on Monday which was the day scheduled to paint the Heather in the Highlands was forcast to be rainy and blustery. Unfortunately that would NOT work for painting Sma' Glen.

Quickly we made a decision to flip flop the two days as Sunday(today) our Glamis Castle day was forcast to be pleasant, bright and sunny. A flurry of activity followed...could we confirm the coach would have a toilet (essential in the wild), what would we do about lunches (none were ordered as we planned to eat at the castle), could we rebook the Glamis Castle painting day?

With a lot of team work (our group is great) we decided to plunge forward and make the switch happen. While the day was not bright and sunny, and warm was NOT the word most of us would use, it has been an incredible day. The pictures above do not even begin to capture the beauty of what we saw. In spite of battling cold and grey the group produced some amazing work.

Tomorrow..on to Glamis Castle!

VISIT to the SMALLEST DISTILLERY IN SCOTLND

2009-08-29T15:01:00.006-05:00

ARTISTS ENJOY EDRADOUR DISTILLERY TOUR

It is hard to believe today is Saturday the 29th. The group arrived in Kenmore on the 23rd. The workshop ends on September 2nd. Already everyone is talking about how the time has just been flying by. Today was painting around the local area. After spotty weather we were excited to see prospects of sunshine for most of the day.

The area around the hotel offers so many different painting sites. The really cool thing about painting so near the hotel is if we do get a shower everyone can easily pop back in the Hotel for a break.

A small group of our folks took a few houres today to visit the very exclusive Edradour Distillery. This special place has the distinction of being the smallest Distillery in Scotland. Although I have been on the tour several times, I never tire of it.

Well, off to bed! Tomorrow is an exciting new day.

FREE DAY AT THE WORKSHOP

2009-08-29T01:19:00.014-05:00

TRAIN TO EDINBURGH and a VISIT TO "THE FRINGE"

Friday was our Free Day. This is the day our artist guests have free to paint, sightsee, or just wander and enjoy the countryside. I took a small group on the train to Edinburgh to enjoy the city. Many had arrived early and seen the city before the workshop started. Those folks stayed back and enjoyed the hotel and local sites. Some painted with Maggie and took advantage of some extra instruction.

The group that headed with me to Edinburgh on the train had a BEAUTIFUL day. One enjoyed the museums in the city. Some visited old friends and others toured the city. The city was alive with excitement. The Festival had just come to an end and "The Fringe" is nearing an end.

I had a GREAT time. When I was in school I dreamed of going to Edinburgh. At 17 I had an opportunity of a lifetime to spend three months with family in England. Knowing of my desire to see Scotland, my little English Grandmother took me by bus from the south of England to Scotland so I could see the country and city I had dreamed of. Ever since then Edinburgh has held a special place in my heart.

My daughter Mandie was blessed to spend a semester of studies at Dalkeith near Edinburgh when she was in college. She shares that special feeling about Edinburgh. I was so excited to be at the fringe I called her from a phone kiosk to share the day with her. If you have never travelled here, I would encourage you to put this on your bucket list!

PAINTING AT BLAIR CASTLE

2009-08-27T12:14:00.003-05:00

Maggie and the Artists Setting up to

Paint By the Creek

Today was our day to paint at the famous Blair Castle. After two days of dodgy weather we were grateful for dry and cloudy! The grounds are amazing and the castle is incredible.

At 2pm those who wished to take a break from painting took a run on the coach to The House of Bruar for a mini shoping trip. Part of the cool thing at the House of Bruar is the section like the Food Hall at Harrods. Also behind the shopping area is a hiking path up to the Falls of Bruar. Some of our folks headed up that way to stretch their legs.

We got back to the Kenmore Hotel about 5pm. Maggie did a quick critique. After that I grabbed my computer and here I sit in the Lobby by the fire waiting for dinner. Life is Good!

KILLIN, SCOTLAND

2009-08-26T16:00:00.003-05:00

FLOWERS,FLOWERS AND MORE FLOWERS!

The scenery here is an artist's dream. The little shop above was just down the road from where the group was painting yesterday at the Falls of Duchart. Everywhere you look there is an opportunity for a Masterpiece.

Today was really an exercise in patience for our artists. Unfortunately the remants of Hurricane Bill crossed Scotland resulting in heavy gusts of wind and blowing rain. The day was not lost however. Maggie worked with the group in a large open room made avaiable to us by the hotel. It was a great opportunity for teaching and learning!

Tomorrow we are at Blair Castle. I am going to bed dreaming about the prospects of sun!

MAGGIE PRICE DEMO AT FALLS OF DUCHART

2009-08-25T15:37:00.003-05:00

Maggie Demo's on Our First Day Out in the Field

Today was our Painting Day at the beautiful Falls of Duchart. The day started promisingly with bright sunshine. After a great breakfast, everyone grabbed their painting gear, boarded the bus and headed for the Falls.

After taking the gear off the bus, Maggie did a wonderful demo. From their things got VERY interesting!!!! The artists set up and began to paint. The first 45 minutes were good. Then the sky started to spit rain. Then the spitting got heavier.....then heavier.

About then Maggie suggested a break for lunch. Some brought sack lunches, others had a great Pub Lunch. Unfortunately the rain kept starting and stopping...never long enough to pick back up where we atarted so we called it a day. Fortunately we made it back to the hotel early enough some could continue painting in the hotel for the couple of hours before dinner

OUR ARTIST'S SCOTLAND HOME

2009-08-24T08:39:00.002-05:00

KENMORE HOTEL

KENMORE SCOTLAND

Yesterday (Sunday) we picked up the group by coach from the Edinburgh Airport. Many of the group arrived early and spent some time visiting the city and surrounding area. Maggie Price, Bill Canright and myself positioned ourselves in the International Arrivals area at 10:30am. By noon we had all but two of our painters accounted for.

Unfortunately, two of our folks had missed stateside connections resulting in missing their overseas flight. After a little bit of digging and with some help from the airlines we found out they were booked to come in Monday morning.

Once we knew all were accounted for, we headed to Kenmore to settle the group in. Arrival day is always an "easy" day. Everyone rests up and we meet for drinks on the house in early evening before enjoying a great Welcome Dinner.

Just a little bit about our hotel. It was established in 1576. That is almost unimaginable in U.S. terms! Britain has very strict rules on how historic properties can be updated. Imagine a warm fire in the lobby, multiple levels with little nooks and crannies. Each guestroom with it's own teapot and biscuits(cookies) waiting daily! In additional to being the oldest Inn in Scotland, the hotel is also known as a place Robert Burns visited and wrote one of his famous poems!

This place is an artist dream come true! Tomorrow we paint at the Falls

PITLOCHERY SHOPPING DAY

2009-08-23T15:03:00.004-05:00

TRADITIONAL FISH AND CHIPS

Just want to give you a "taste" of one of my favorite things we get to experience when we visit Scotland with a painting group. I absolutely LOVE Fish and Chips made the way only the Brits can do. I have been accused of negatively affecting the economy when I leave because sales for Fish and Chips significantly decrease when I leave!

Don't forget to click on Maggie's Web Site to the right. Maggie is adding even more fun stuff.

SEARCHING FOR PAINTING SITES IN THE HIGHLANDS

2009-08-21T15:31:00.004-05:00

FALLS NEAR KENMORE

After setting in to the Kenmore Hotel yesterday here in beautiful Kenmore Scotland, our Instructor Maggie Price, her husband Bill Canrite and I went to check out a few painting sites in preparation for our groups arrival.

The afternoon was amazing. I quickly forgot how jet lagged I was as we viewed the beautiful scenery. The picture above of the Falls at the opposite end of Loch Tay do not even begin to do justce to the amazing site we enjoyed.

Eventually we had to drag ourselves away. The drive back to the hotel was entrancing. We found a little driven side road that eged along the Loch. Just when we thought the road could not get any narrower, guess what! They got narrower! Maggie was riding shotgun, Bill in the back. Bless them they did not even cringe when the Lorries barreled around blind corners and threatened to force us into the stone walls along the sides.

Good News however! We made it safely back to the hotel. After returning we enjoyed a wonderful meal in the hotel restauraunt overlooking the River Tay. I was very happy to see my bed after a very long but enjoyable day. I am thrilled to be back here. Wish you were here!

More tomorrow!

SCOTLAND HERE I COME!

2009-08-20T14:04:00.004-05:00

Via Amsterdam

I made it! Yesterday morning at 8am my wonderful husband Greg drove me to the Austin Straubel Airport in Green Bay. My flight for Detroit was scheduled to depart at 10am launching the start of my Great Adventure to Scotland for our Maggie Price Pastel Workshop in the Highlands.

All went well with the flights. My overseas flight left from Detroit and flew to Amsterdam. Amazingly all were on time! I LOVE going into overseas gift shops (Ask Greg! I make him crazy with my love of "looking", He is SURE I will miss my flight one day) so my four hour layover was a treat rather than trauma.

Maggie and Bill met me in the arrivals area at Edinburgh Airport at 10:30am this morning. We picked up the rental car and headed to BEAUTIFUL Kenmore Scotland which is where I am typing this blog from.

It is now 8:15pm here in Scotland. 2:15pm for those on CST. I have managed to stay awake and not nap after arriving. I have always found if I can do that, I fall into bed Catatonic...sleep through the night and wake up refreshed and ready to take on whatever life has for me in my temporary home for the next 12 days. With that I am off to bed! More daily.

DON'T MISS CHECKING OUT MAGGIE'S WWEB SITE ON THE RIGHT. It will be fun to hear her vantage on our adventure and see her pics.

OFF TO SCOTLAND!!!!!!!!

2009-08-18T16:42:00.002-05:00

Sorry there is no picture today! I am leaving shortly to work with Maggie Price in the Highlands of Scotland. I am hopeful I will be posting lots of pictures as the workshop progresses.

I LOVE Scotland! I love doing the workshops.

More Soon!

MICHAEL RICHESON

2009-08-17T16:58:00.004-05:00

Michael-One of the Bro's stuck in the middle!

I hope through this Blog you will get to know each one of my family better. After all, one of the cool and crazy things about our company is that we have so many family members working here and somehow we get through a day without causing bodily harm and still walk out the door and look forward to going to a movie together, or sharing dinner with our families. From everything I hear about many family businesses that truly makes ours unusual and special.

Mike is one of my middle brothers. With 4 brothers between my sister and I it must be challenging to be in the middle. As the oldest I sometimes wonder what life would have been like as an only child. My conclusion is that it would have been boring and not any where near as much fun!

So back to Mike......being one of the guys in the middle, Mike learned to be tough as nails to survive. So tough we occasionally butt heads and I am tempted to nail his office door shut with him inside, disconnect the phone and run from the building. Then we walk out the door for the evening. Mike meets me on the way out, gives me a hug goodbye offers a smile that could melt ice cubes, says "Love ya Sis". With that, I smile, get in my car and head home, thanking God for ALL my family. I am reminded again...we are BLESSED!

WHAT A DAY

2009-08-13T17:32:00.003-05:00

DEBBIE

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

I made a commitment when I started the blog, I would not miss an entry on a work day. So much for the best laid plans of Mice & Men! (Or should we say women!) It is summer and in the summer folks take vacation. Summer also happens to be one of our busiest times of year as our dealers are getting ready for the BIG Back to School Rush!

Debbie is one of our mission critical folks, along with Steve, Jackie, Annette, Kelly, Sally, Jan, Rachelle and way to many VERY important warehouse folks to begin to list (Guys...I hope you know I appreciate you!) This week Debbie is on Vacation. Amazing how quickly you realize how much you count on a staff member when they are gone.

Needless to say.....Debbie has been DEEPLY missed this week. As the phone calls come in, and the messages I need to return for questions that need to be answered continue to pile up.....this poor blog got the worst of it. Debbie...hurry back...enjoy the time, get rested...we can't wait to see you on Monday!

BEST IN SHOW

2009-08-11T10:10:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Richard Broderick - our Best in Show Winner of the Richeson75 Figure/Portrait Competition! Check out all the winners at http://www.richeson75.com/portrait/portraitawards.html

Awards Juror Anita Louis West's Comments on "Eric Polk":Excellent concept - mysterious subject. The knee raised to juxtapose the head and to bring the viewer's eye around is an exciting compositional diagonal. The drawing and light and shadow are beautifully painted. Bravo!!

EXHIBITION OPENING AT RICHESON SCHOOL OF ART AND GALLERY

2009-08-10T16:57:00.006-05:00

The Calm before the Crowds!

Friday night was an exciting night here at Richeson. We officially opened our 2009 Figure/Portrait Exhibition. We had a great crowd. Wine and Cheese was enjoyed by all. I love these events. It is a wonderful opportunity for our family to spend time not only with local artists but also artists who travel in from other areas just for the event. The work on display is absolutely incredible.

If you happen to be in the area or traveling through, please take a few moments and stop in to see this amazing exhibition. The quality of the work will blow you away!

NORTHWEST AREA ARTS COUNCIL(NAAC) DEMO

2009-08-07T13:37:00.004-05:00

Mary Telfer Holden Demo

NAAC Meeting August 6th, 2009

http://naac4art.org/

One of our favorite things to do at Richeson is to support instructors! Mary Telfer Holden is a wonderful painter who teaches using a variety of Richeson products. Last evening Mary demonstrated using a variety of Unison and Richeson pastels at the August NAAC(Northwest Area Arts Council) Meeting in Northern Illinois. The event was attended by 10 members and graciously hosted at the River Art Studio of Debbie Howard in Algonquin Illinois.

I heard from Mary this morning and it sounds like everyone had a great time. It was an opportunity to try materials the members may not have had an opportunity to experience before.

Members also tried the Richeson Premium Pastel Surface...an amazing gritty texture, that grabs layer after layer of pastel! More about this great surface on Monday.

Take a moment and check out the site for NAAC as well as Mary's website.

Have a great weekend!

PAINT WITH US IN SCOTLAND in TWO WEEKS!

2009-08-06T09:57:00.006-05:00

LAST CHANCE!!!!!

JOIN US IN SCOTLAND AUGUST 23rd!

It's NOT too late! If you have some unexpected free time...and have always dreamed about painting in the Scottish Highlands...now is your chance. Due to an unexpected medical situation with a couple of our guests we have some last minute openings for our Pastel Workshop with Maggie Price in the Scottish Highlands!!! If you are interested..please e-mail colleen@richesonart.com or call me during the workday at 800/233-2404.

Details on the trip can be seen on our website at http://www.richesonart.com/

UP UP AND AWAY

2009-08-05T12:26:00.002-05:00

Austin Straubel Airport - 5AM Tuesday!

I often get asked if it is exciting to be able to travel to so many parts of the country and the world on company business. Sometimes the answer is YES!! Usually that is when I am going somewhere exotic and fun such as our painting workshop with Stephen Quiller to Italy last year.

Yesterdays trip...was like driving to Milwaukee. I got up at 3:30am after not sleeping(I am always afraid I will miss the alarm!) and at 5:00am I was checked in for a quick flight to Detroit.

I worked with our rep for the day calling on our dealers (I do enjoy that!) and at 5:00pm he pushed me out of the car (We were tired of each other by then!) and I was heading back for Austin Straubel Airport in Green Bay. By 8:15pm I was watering plants on my front porch.

At the very least...my life is INTERSTING!

TUBING THE NEW RICHESON OILS -Shiva Series

2009-07-31T16:48:00.003-05:00

Monday is the day! Finally we can begin to ship our new oils. I have received a number of requests from artists for sample orders. We can still do a few more......If you are interested in taking our paint for a test run please e-mail me at colleen@richesonart.com

We have a number of dealers already promoting the paint so the cool thing is it will be easy to order more colors if you like what you try. Just type in RICHESON OILS under the search box. Up will pop some great places to order the paint. Plus, if the dealer you normally shop is not stocking the paint...ask them to special order for you! They will be thrilled to handle the order.

With that, it is Friday evening and I am off to mow my lawn! Enjoy the weekend!

JUST A FEW MORE DAYS

2009-07-30T16:25:00.008-05:00

COMING AUGUST 1ST

RICHESON OILS - Shiva Series

Just a few more days and we begin shipping our Richeson Oils! For us it is hard to believe it is actually happening. It has been so long in the works. Finally the dream of offering the Market a high quality Professional Oil at an affordable price under the Richeson Brand!

Did you know we are one of the few companies today who still allow our oils to "rest" after milling for 60 or more days to allow for maximium oil absorbtion? Once the oil has "rested" we test to determine if there is a need for additional milling.

If you are interested in testing these oils, e-mail me at colleen@richesonart.com

Supply of free samples are limited!

2009-07-29T19:20:00.005-05:00

OUR FIRST COMPANY WAREHOUSE!

We are often asked how our company got it's start. It is actually a pretty cool story! After 34 years of work in the Art Materials Industry, my dad (Jack) unexpectedly found himself out of work. At the time the family was living in Massachusetts. Most of us 6 kids had flown the nest. Only my brother Darren and my sister Kelly were still living at home. Darren was just graduating from college with a degree in accounting.

My dad made Darren an offer he could not refuse as a new college graduate. Come to work for him and my mother to start a business importing art materials. The real hook was my dad would pay Darren Free room and board, $50 a month and he would have a car to drive! What an offer! If you ask Darren today, I am sure he would tell you there are days he wonders "What was I thinking!!!"

With that they decided to move the family back to a place they lived years ago...beautiful Appleton Wisconsin where cost of living was reasonable and people are hard working. My mom and dad bought the house you see above and started Jack Richeson & Co., Inc Artist Materials. Product was shipped from vendors to the "Warehouse" above - orders taken on the house phone and picked and packed from the attic. This is where they stayed until the business grew enough my mom insisted it was time for the first fledgling "REAL" office and warehouse.

The company start was modest and everyone worked hard. No one could imagine how it would grow to eventually employ 12 family members as well as our other wonderful employees! This was only the beginning!

2009-07-28T07:52:00.004-05:00

THE JACK RICHESON & CO., INC KIMBERLY WI

Our Building

For those of you who have never had a chance to visit us in beautiful Kimberly, WI., I thought you might enjoy seeing our building! When I moved from California to Wisconsin in 1992 our bulding was a modest 40,000 square feet. It housed a small office area, warehouse storage and a small area to manufacture plastic palettes as well as a small wood working area to manufacture loom kits for the schools.

Since 1992 we have added 3 additions and major renovations to our building. We now have over 120,000 square feet. We manufacture some of the Finest Professional Artist Oil Paint (Richeson Oils - Shiva Series) available, Casein, Plastic palettes, manufacture the finest Oak Easels by Best available anywhere in the world as well as are an importer of our brand of Richeson Brushes, Quiller Watercolors, Unison Pastels and Richeson Lyptus Easels. We are the U.S. distributor for Tri-Art Acrylics - an amazing range of professional to educational acrylics. Plus we import a complete range of "sundries" for the artist market...everything for pottery supplies to well...you name it...we have it!

All this started in an old 3 story Victorian House on State St. in Appleton WI.! More about that tomorrow!

NEW!!!!! FIGURE AND PORTRAIT EXHIBITION

2009-07-24T15:29:00.004-05:00

It is an exciting weekend here at Richeson. We have a crew in the Gallery hanging the entries for the Richeson 75 Figure and Portrait Exhibition. The work that has been submitted for this exhibition is just AMAZING. I am awestruck! I can NOT wait to see everything hung.

Just when things can't get any better, we have Maggie Price starting a workshop this next week in Pastel! What a great way to launch the new Exhibition. Maggie for those of you who don't know is President of IAPS....International Assoociation of Pastel Societies. If you are not familiar with this great organization, take a moment and click on the link to the right. Guaranteed to take you into a bright colorful and exciting world!

For those of you interested in taking a class....we are pleased to announce reduced class fees. We hope this will make top quality classes more affordable to everyone interested. Click on the link below to see a list of future workshops.
http://www.richesonart.com/school/workshops/index.html

NEW!!!! RICHESON OILS- Shiva Series

2009-07-23T08:23:00.004-05:00

AUGUST 1ST 2009 RELEASE DATE!

We are excited beyound belief! When my dad was a teenager in Chicago, he delivered supplies to the well known painter Ramon Shiva. Ramon as well as other great painters of the day talked to Jack for hours about the importance of top quality materials to a professional painter. It is something my dad has never forgotten!

In the 50's & 60's Shiva Oils were the top selling brand of oil in the U.S. Unfortunately over time, the different manufacturers who owned Shiva changed formulas much to the disappointment of Shiva's loyal Customers. With the Aquisition of Shiva Oils our company began to pour our heart and soul into bringing the quality up to the level of the Finest Professional Oil on the market but yet striving for a price all....whether a student or a professional could afford and find great value.

If you are interested in testing these great new oils.....e-mail me at colleen@richesonart.com The first 50 people who e-mail will be sent a sample tube of this amazing oil. Once you try it, see the value, we are confident you will never want for anything else!

BECKY RICHESON -Our Summer Graphic Artist!

2009-07-22T15:34:00.010-05:00

Becky Richeson(seated)

Rachelle Hanson-Art Director(standing)

One of the joys of working in a family business is getting to work with my nieces and nephews as they became old enough to work. Few people I know really have a chance to get to know their sibling's children as adults. Watching these kids grow up has been fun. Even more fun is watching them grow up into GREAT adults!

There are 17+ (I lost count!) nieces and nephews and a number of great nieces & nephews. Becky Richeson is my brother Shawn's 18 year old baby girl. Becky just graduated from High School and this fall will be attending the University of Wisconsin/Eau Claire.

We are thilled to have Becky helping out in our Art Department this summer. In this crazy Techno/Instant everything world, demands are high for electronic information on our products. Becky has been filling in gaps and learning the ropes at the same time!

More to come about some of the other "cousins" as we go on.

NEW FROM RICHESON!!!! Italy's Finest Rolled Acrylic Primed Canvas

2009-07-21T09:21:00.003-05:00

RECENT ANNOUNCEMENT

FROM RICHESON TO DEALERS!

We are SO SO excited! Richeson is now the distributor for Italy's Caravaggio Rolled Canvas! Serious painter's who stretch their own canvas should call today for a swatch book. Reference - Colleen's Blog....ask for Stock # 30500000 for your personal swatch book. If you love this canvas as much as we think you will, call us back and we will get you connected with a stocking dealer.

Why do we think this canvas is so great?

-Milled in Verese Italy for over 30 years

-State of the Art Priming Method delivers consistency

-Cotton, Jute, Linen, Polycotton, Cotton Linen, 100% Polyester

-Extra Fine, Fine, Universal Grain, Rough, Extra Rough

-Sizes 63"x190", 63"x 390", 83"x 190", 83" x 390"

-Europe's Top Acrylic Primed Canvas

Beautiful Wisconsin! A Painter's Paradise

2009-07-19T19:39:00.000-05:00

LUNCH AT A NORTH WOODS LANDMARK

PACKING UP TO HEAD HOME!

Back home again! Even for someone who doesn't camp it was an exceptional weekend! The North Woods are amazing. Lake after beauftiful Lake...pristine...quiet....a painter's paradise.

Anyone considering taking a workshop at the Richeson School of Art and Gallery could really enhance the trip by adding a few days at the begining or the end and exploring BEAUTIFUL WISCONSIN. If camping is not your thing, there are amazing B&B's as well as small hotels.

If this is something you are considering, ask us....we are happy to offer some suggestions for side trips before or after your workshop.

MONDAY - News about our New Italian Rolled Canvas Line - Caravaggio!

Weekend Away From the Office

2009-07-17T07:46:00.001-05:00

OUR "UP NORTH" HOTEL!

What happened to the "Dog Days of Summer"? It will be in the low 60's here in Wisconsin. Go figure! This is the weekend I declare my love for my husband by heading up into the North Woods and spending the weekend camping with him.

Anyone who knows me well, knows that roughing it is the Hilton on a day when the maids all called in sick! Just kidding! Sort of!! I am not a big camper...although I love being outdoors, hiking and boating. Just wish it could have been HOT!

COMING MONDAY - Just released information on our new line of Caravaggio Rolled Canvas! really cool stuff! A favorite in Italy for Years!

Family Relations

2009-07-16T11:58:00.000-05:00

Jack taking a Soapstone class in our School of Art

Funny thing happened the other day.....my dad (Jack) walked in my office and asked me if he should be concerned. My immediate response was "About what?" He said my brother Darren...Company President had invited him to play golf that evening. Jack wanted to know if he was about to be fired!!!

How funny! I guess that's what happens when you work with 5 of your kids. (there are more siblings and step siblings elsewhere in the country and world!) When the movie the Bucket List came out, "the Boys" (Shawn, Mike, Darren) invited dad to see the movie with them. we had to laugh...he was sure there was an underlying message!

For those of you who have never met my dad Jack...he is an amazing and brilliant man. We could not manage without him. May he outlive us all!

Maggie Price Workshop in Wisconsin

2009-07-16T11:52:00.000-05:00

Maggie reminded me yesterday we still have openings for her workshop here in Kimberly Wisconsin. Click on the link to the right for details about dates and costs. Also, take a moment and look at Maggie's site. Especially if you live in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, or indiana this is an amazing opportunity to learn from a master! Plus, summers in Wisconsin are an unbelievable treat....pristine farms, beautiful farmlands and great midwestern folks. After the workshop, treat yourself and head up to Door County for a couple of days of fun and rest.

Maggie Price Painting Using Richeson Premium Sanded Pastel Surface

2009-07-15T10:28:00.000-05:00

Got an e-mail from Maggie Price this morning. Maggie has been working with our Premium Sanded Pastel Surfaces on Gator Foam for a while now. This is a product the family developed a couple of years ago with desire to make the Plein Aire Painter's life easier. Light weight, does not need to be mounted before framing AND glory of glories...you can rinse the surface off under the faucet if needed!!

On line images generally don't show the vividness of a painting. Yet on our Richeson Pastel Surface this painting POPS! Maggie will be using this surface in a variety of colors with students when we are painting in the Highlands of Scotland next month. Just the thought of Scotland could get me going on a whole different tangent. Focus Colleen! Focus!

I hope you will take time and click into Maggie's web site. Cool stuff, workshops and info on IAPS. If you want info on how to purchase our pastel surface in Paper, Gator or on hardboard...give us a call at 800/233-2404. We can direct you to a stocking dealer.

Great Memories! Zoltan Szabo!

2009-07-14T08:52:00.000-05:00

I am just learning how much fun Blogging can be! Yesterday a dear friend -Willa Mc Neil found our new Blog by accident when she was on line. Willa Mc Neil was the friend and business partner of world renowned Watercolor Painter Zoltan Szabo. I was blessed to spend wonderful time with both Willa and Zoltan at Richeson Sponsored overseas Scotland Painting Workshops, as well as a number of Dealer sponsored consumer shows over the years.

For those of you who were privileged to know Zoltan before he passed away in 2003, he had the gift of teaching. He had the ability to grow dormant seeds of desire to paint within those who had never picked up a brush before. Once they were a student of Zoltan's he drew talent and abilities from every student they never imagined they had!

Zoltan created techniques for watercolor painting never before seen. He developed and used Slant Bristle and Slant Synthetic Brushes with almost magical results. He taught others how to accomplish the same. Willa is carrying on Zoltan's dream. His workshops are available for purchase as are the special slant brushes and other tools Zoltan LOVED.

I hope you will take a short side trip today and visit Zoltan's website....you will see it featured on the right.

Monday Monday!

2009-07-13T08:47:00.001-05:00

It's Monday at Jack Richeson & Co. July 13th. Mike and Darren got back to town very late after working the Learning and Art Expo in Lisle IL. Mike says it was a great show! They are both exhausted. Amazing what aging a few years does to ones energy in setting up and packing up after one of these shows! Somehow it seemed a lot easier when we were in our 30's!

Luana Winner Luconi wrapped up a VERY succesful workshop this weekend at the Richeson School of Art and Gallery. Luana is such a delight to work with, and her wonderful husband Doug is SO supportive! I am looking forward to seeing Luana's Studio when I am in Raleigh in November for Art of the Carolina's. Take a moment and click the link to Luana's website. She has some great things happening.

The model is Judy is a sweet lady who has worked for Jack Richeson & Co for a number of years now. She handles our warehouse shipping desk. What would the family do without all our great staff.

Crazy Days!

2009-07-10T11:42:00.000-05:00

New Semi Hard Pastels from Richeson Available in sets and open stock.

Thank goodness for weekends! We may get a few moments of down time. That said, unlike years ago when I worked in a bank, you just don't walk out the door and forget work until Monday in a family business.

This weekend is no different. We are going in a hundred directions! My brothers Mike and Darren left our factory at 5:00am yesterday morning with a van loaded with supplies. Our company is a vendor at the Art & Learning Show this weekend in Lisle ILL. Should be an exciting time working with Artist Instructors as well as talking with Artists about their work and our products. We are especially excited about our new Semi Hard Square Sticks of Pastels. If all goes well, they will get back to their families around midnight Sunday night and be back at their desks by 7am Monday!

We will be at the October show in Pasadena. Click on the link to the site to register. I will be in our booth at that show. Come by and say hello. Anyone mentioning this blog will get a free sample of our new pastel surface.

In our Art School today(Click link for upcoming classes) we are in day three of our Luana Luconi Winner Workshop. Luana is such an inspiring instructor. It is a real joy to have her at our facility. I love slipping down to the school and observing her teach. What an inspiration! This evening after class, the group will be heading to Jack & Linda's home for dinner and night of fun. Should be a crazy night. Click on Luana's website to see her work.

The highlight of my weekend...when work is finally done...I get to have three of my grandkids spend the night with us! Family...that's what it all comes down to at the end...Yours, mine...that's why we all do what we do!

Art and the Family

2009-07-09T18:53:00.000-05:00

My Name is Colleen. I am one of 12 active members of our family manufacturing and importing business. During the summer months that number increases by leaps as my high school and college age nieces and nephews join us for summer work. We employ others in a variety of departments. Without those folks we would not survive. What makes what we do interesting is the dynamic between family members. Others in family businesses share with me how challenging it can be even when the business involves just two family members.

Ours includes my 76 yearold father Jack(who has been in our industry 60 years!) CEO, my Step Mother Linda (my mom Ruth passed away in 2000 but started the business with my dad and a brother), Brother Darren who is President, Brother Shawn Exec VP of Manufacturing & Warehousing, Sister Kelly VP of Finance, Brother Mike VP/National Accounts and I am VP of Sales and Marketing. Imagine working with 3 of your brothers, your sister, AND your dad!!!!! I'll talk about the other important familiy members in future blogs!!!

This is all about why it works (most of the time!!!), the joys, the challenges and the craziness! More soon!