Great Escape: Mom, Find Your Inner Artist

It's often difficult for moms I know to try activities without their kids.

When I ask my friend Monica what her plans are for the weekend, she often stares back like the answer should be obvious. 

"Well, Saturdays are Jackson's soccer practices, and Sundays Emma and I work on her reading," she says.

She does this without blinking, which frankly worries me. It's not that she doesn't want to do something for herself; it's that her children come first, which by all standards is an acceptable way to parent.

But on more than one occasion I've heard her voice a need for new exploration. If you too have an itch to expand your horizons and are feeling creative, here's your first chance.

in Brentwood is hosting Renoir Painting Day from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25. Participate in recreating a large community Renoir-style painting to be permanently displayed at the store.

While you're there, pick up art supplies to bring home and use during all of the free time you have. If painting is your medium, Artmart offers everything from acrylic to encaustic paints, along with brushes, easels, paper and canvas.  

Renoir used his family as inspiration for his work and you can too. Paint pictures of your children and be left with memories that last for years to come.