Bio of a Doodler.
At 3 or 4 years of age, I was perfectly content to have a piece of plain white paper or two, a fat kindergarten pencil, and an old school box full of broken crayons. I could sit for hours drawing and coloring at the restaurant-style booth that was our table when my family lived in my Baba's basement in Ohio. I preferred my drawings over coloring books any day and can remember after the 3 bears I had drawn were finished (a Momma, a Poppa & a baby of course) I'd cut them out with a pair of safety scissors and then tape all of their hands together. They would then be proudly displayed on our old refrigerator which was more round than rectangular. Everyone who saw them would be amazed that I did that. "Did you draw those all by yourself?!"
Art equals good feelings.
I'm not sure how long we lived in my grandmother’s basement, but I remember that she would save old window blinds. You know, the ones you pull down from a big roll? She would save them for us to draw on. Amazing! A vinyl white roll of endless canvas and a huge tin coffee can of crayons with every color you could imagine...
July 2024
Valerie Peterson's hometown, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a charming and unique town known for its historic architecture, natural springs, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, it boasts a rich history and a distinctive Victorian character. The town's layout is quite unusual, with narrow streets and steep hills, adding to its quaint appeal.
Historic Architecture: Eureka Springs is renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The town's historic district features beautiful Victorian homes, including the Crescent Hotel and the Thorncrown Chapel, which is an architectural marvel designed by E. Fay Jones.
Natural Springs: The town originally grew around the natural springs in the area, which were believed to have healing properties. Many of these springs are still accessible today, and visitors can explore them while enjoying the lush, green surroundings.
Arts and Culture: Eureka Springs has a vibrant arts community with numerous galleries, studios, and craft shops. The town hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and literature to crafts and food.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding Ozark Mountains provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, bird-watching, and exploring scenic byways. The Ozark National Forest and Beaver Lake are popular spots for nature enthusiasts.
Overall, Eureka Springs offers a blend of historical charm, artistic flair, and natural beauty, making it a delightful destination for visitors.