Although I am not able to join them, my groups are on their way to Spain! LA FINCA DEL NINO near the sunny coast of the Mediterranean is an artist’s paradise. Come along with us the next couple of weeks to see a bit of the area and La Finca. Here are some photos of the first group and my recollection from being at La Finca last year.
“I didn’t know what to expect when I arrived at La Finca. Driving down the long road to the entry and then up to the wrought iron front gate, slightly open and welcoming. Here you enter a world of a thousand paintings waiting to happen.
La Finca is not fancy, but it is totally cool. It is a working mango farm and this is the Farm House. The four haciendas where we stay surround a courtyard full of flowers. These haciendas have two to four bedrooms each, as well as a kitchen and living area. They are actually little casitas. Wonderful Spanish tile and artwork from past visiting artwork. The living area opens up to your own private patio with a quiet place to paint. More nooks and crannies to explore.
We could probably stay here the entire time and find ample things to paint, but we choose to go out most every day to a wonderful new village or location. I wonder what our next adventure will be.
Denis and Sally are the wonderful owners. They have the two qualities I look for in workshop hosts – a fantastic sense of humor and the willingness to make our time with them the best experience we’ve ever had.
And the food, you ask? The food they serve is authentic and delicious. It’s like visiting your relatives in Spain…who happen to be the best cooks you know. Delicious is all I can say. So far, I haven’t seen a plate with food left on it. Not mine for sure! All in all, if you’re a diva who needs the amenities of a fine hotel, this may not be the place for you. But if you have the heart of a true artist, you’ll be in love!”
Needless to say, I’m pouting because I cannot join the groups this time around. But let’s join them in spirit, you and I. Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll be blogging about wonderful southern Spain and how it is to paint there, just to give you a taste of what it’s like. It’s so cool – being in the company of like-minded people, no other responsibilities or worries than to paint, enjoy your surroundings and just have the time of your life. It’s truly special.
This bout with cancer has only served to remind me of what a special time it is and how very fortunate I have been to experience it so many times. Do it while you can!
If you’d like to join us next year, the dates are: May 30th thru June 10th, 2016. The brochure isn’t ready yet, but anyone who’d like to get on list, just email me and I’ll give you first dibs when it does.
THIS YEAR’S FIRST GROUP ENJOYING THEIR TIME IN SOUTHERN SPAIN
UPDATE – Okay, you asked for it, so here you go…a photo of me right now.
Bradley and me.
I’m having chemo number 5 this Thursday. My final treatment will be in June. After that, we’re gonna celebrate! Come back and see what I have in store for you. A special gift from me to you.
Thanks so much for reading.
Kathie xo
Keep on fighting, Kathie! and stay positive…it really helps. I am hoping to take one of your classes at HOOT if you are up for it.
I’ll be there!
All the South Carolina girls are thinking of you. Looking forward to sharing painting time with you in the fall. Hugs!
Love you and your spirits !!! Keep fighting and yes we WILL celebrate !….with your friend network we will rock the WORld!!!
Sending huge hugs to you Kathie, as Michael and I pack for travels this Friday. We will miss you at La Finca for sure, but we will send lots of pics your way. Watch your mail for a little something also. (for one of my favorite generous women) Elaine
I’m hoping that you and Michael have a fabulous time! I’ll be thinking about you.
Kathie I think all that hair distracted from your true beauty. If it bugs YOU just wrap up in one of your fantastic scarves. Heart hugs going out to you.
Kathie–Thank you for sharing your story. You are inspiring in so many ways. Your open heart is allowing in all the blessings and love sent your way every day. Looking forward more than ever to Italy. Connie Rose
Having been to La Finca with you, I can tell everyone that your description is right on. It’s a beautiful place and everyone reading this should definitely get on your list. It’s a beautiful spot and sharing it with you would be so memorable. Your journey through this cancer is treatment is touching all our hearts. Praying for you and hoping that today is a good day. lots of love xo
Kathie, you look beautiful, as always! Bradley is so cute and good company too I bet! Send me the info on trip, told you I’m planning on going again. Count down…two to go and then it’s only a memory. Love and prayers…xox Judy G
I admire your courage, keep fighting and stay strong. Sending love and prayers you way. I know your generous caring spirit will prevail! XO
Kathie, you inspire me and many others! I was unable to go to Spain in 2015, but I want to plan for 2016 when YOU will be there. Your in my prayers daily. Love you!
Wow! would I ever love you to join us, Celeste!
Hi Kathie!
I’m sure that you feel our arms around you, supporting you every step of the way on your journey back to great health! And also sure that you take in some of the simple pleasures each day along with the challenges. You look so “cute” with your cat. So glad that your last treatment is coming soon and then the twinkle in your eyes and sparkle on your face, with your paintbrush in hand, you’ll be saying to each new day….Bring it on!
Oh how we all wish we could be in Spain, without any worries, in good health & painting our hearts out! That time will come again!
Good job on your book! I’m soooo glad that you decided to publish 30 days in book form! Very motivating and easy to take with. XOXOXOXO
Prayers and Big Hug! Thanks for taking the time to share. You are an inspiration.
Hang in there Kathie! Sending good thoughts and healing prayers your way! Bradley looks like he’s a real charactor!
prayers of healing for you Kathie, I look forward to your updates and am always encouraged by your positive attitude and humour
next yr you will be able to go to spain, it looks like an amazing place to paint
Love the photo of you and your faithful companion! God’s Peace for you and prayers for continued strength. I cannot imagine the fight you have undertaken, but know you are facing it head on with courage and determination. I pray you have all you need and some energy to paint and create. You are an inspiration!
Ellen
You are amazing! Just think of all the sea glass that will be waiting for you next May. XO Nancy
Hugs and prayers!!!
I am off tomorrow to La Finca – wish you were there but know your “journey” towards good health is more important. Maybe see you in Oct. in Tuscany. Love and xxx – Judy N.
Travel safely, Judy….and see you in Tuscany in October!
You are beautiful inside and out. What an inspiration you are. Sending lots of prayers and love your way.
Kathie there should be more women like you. Bravery has never been a word to describe women but you have enough to go around.
Take care of yourself and treat yourself to something you have wanted for a long time.
Hugs
A thousand loving thoughts support you, and you will be in Spain again.
Keep up the fight. The battle will be won. We are all in your corner. Sending lots of prayers, good vibes and love your way.
Hi Kathie
So GOOD to hear from you.
Also sorry you are missing your trip, but the next one will be even sweeter
Hang in there. Hugs and prayers.
Jo Ann
Finishing up our last day hear in Spain today with dinner on the beach. Your description of LA Finca is spot on. I am sitting on one of the patios reading your blog and listening to all the birds sing and hoping to finish my background on my Poppie painting. Sally and Dennis are amazing hosts. I learned so much from Barbara, Bonnie and Karlyn I won’t be afraid to draw my own paintings or just sit down and sketch out what I see in front of me. I can’t Waite to join you for a class the states when you are feeling better. You look wonderful next to your cat. Thanks for setting up this wonderful trip. I will send you more pic’s and sea glass when I get home.
Thanks,
Having taken several classes with you and following you on the blog, I know you are a very positive upbeat person. They can’t keep someone like that down, so I know you will be back traveling the world in no time. In the mean time, know that you have thousands of hugs and prayers coming your way. ☺☺♥
Prayers, love, and hugs winging their way to you daily. Rest and get to feeling better. You are an amazing woman and positive thoughts and all our love will get you thru this. Looking forward to celebrating with you, Sweetie! 🙂
Kathie, You are my hero! To still find the energy to write a blog, even though you’ve been feeling so sick…. well, there aren’t many as brave as you! I have such WONDERFUL memories of my trip to Spain with Karlyn and you! We are so fortunate to get to see the world with fellow artists who are as crazy as us! I’d love to go back!
Great blog! Great attitude! Great picture! Great person! Great wishes and prayers sent to you!!!
Kathie, thank you for sharing your story. It was really comforting to me to see your smile. Positive thoughts to you.
I love seeing your beautiful smile . My prayers continue for you dear friend. I have had a wonderful time here at La Finca. Thank you for organizing this ” painting holiday” in Spain. Love y’all, Michele and Pooh
Kitties are so wonderful.
Thank you for taking time out of your treatment to keep us all enthralled about Spain. I would love to be with you next year! Put me on your list to notify….and keep getting better and better! You are in my prayers for complete recovery! You can do it!
Just wishing you the best as you continue your treatments to be well again. I think of you often. I look forward to your class at HOOT! Fran
Kathy your smile is so inspiring, thank you for sharing your photo with us. Positive prayers for your recovery.
Thank you all so very much. It has brightened my day SO much to read all of your inspiring comments! THANKS!
Hang in there! You look great. I lost eyebrows and eyelashes and you still have such beautiful eyes. My chemo went from March til June so I know where you are. You are on the downhill side. Love your smile and the good friend you have there with you.
It would be so wonderful if I could go to Spain with you next year. Maybe the tooth fairy will leave some cash. In the meantime, you get all better and I am working to have a batik class here in Pa., Love, Jeanne
Thank you for sharing your journey. It helps us all more than you will ever know. Can’t wait to start another one of your paintings. You’re the best!
You are so beautiful inside and out! Happy to hear from you despite what you are going through. You are teaching us all a very valuable lesson on patience and strength. Stay strong and keep that wonderful positive attitude that you possess. Bradley looks like he is being a wonderful protector and caregiver. I know he is giving you much love. Cats can sense when they are needed. Stroking him can give you both much peace! Hugs, prayers and much love, Pat
Hi Kathie, the Richmond group is sending prayers to you. Keep that positive attitude
Keep up the fight, Kathy. Looking forward to seeing you in September.
You are so brave and generous with your talents. My prayers are with you for a complete
recovery. You are giving many hope and lessons in strength and coping in sharing your cancer journey. Thank you for being so generous with your love of painting.
Kathie, praying for you and really working on my drawing skills. Love the new book! Glad to see your sweet kittie there with you.
Love your hair cat! Would love to do another workshop with you soon, Beth
Spain looks fabulous and I am sure the girls there are missing you– and having a wonderful time!!! Meanwhile, hang in there and stay positive!!! I am saying prayers and sending healing thoughts your way!!! Hugs!!!
Kathie. Keep up your good attitude and you will be done soon and back to painting. Do not worry about your fellow painter because we all have unfinished projects and we will all wait for you to get stronger. Then we will do your great project. God Bless
Miss seeing you and taking your great classes. Got my order and will work on your techniques when I get a chance.
Hope this terrible time for you passes soon.
Hugs,
Ann
Sending lots of healing prayers and good thoughts your way, Kathie. So glad to hear you are so close to the end of your treatments. You amaze me with your strength and spirit!! I look forward to seeing you (and taking your classes) at HOOT and also to sharing a gelato with you in Tuscany. Stay strong!!!
Hi Kathie..of course we wish you were her with us but so thankful you are near the end of your treatments and on the mend. That is the most important thing. Loved the photo of your sweet smile and Bradly. Syl has appointed herself as our “fearless leader” and she is doing a good job even through our trials & errors!! She just told Janice “I hate to be bossy, but I’m good at it!!” We all laughed out loud!!! Barcelona is all you said it would be so far. When our jet lagged, sleep deprived brains & bodies finally get some rest….look out! Love & prayers to you always. I’m already thinking of next years trip…..
hahahaha…..that is SO SYLVIA! Thank you all so much for the photos you have sent to me and the updates. I treasure every one of them!
Hugs to you Kathy. May this time of chemicals do what they are supposed to. Can’t wait for all to be well.
Thanks for the update. Your inner beauty radiates! Your hair will come back, but you may not recognize it. So excited that you are so close to the end of this journey; June is not that far away! You have remained an awesome warrior and an inspiration throughout … love and hugs coming your way; prayers going up!
You are such an inspiration kathy!!
Bald is Beautiful!
Its a privilege to know you and to have taken a class in Nashville from you..I am waiting to be in your class here again, in 2016!
Looking forward to the class and doing some more batiks!
luv
radha kirtane, Nashville, TN