My condolences go out to everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. We truly understand, and send love and gratitude for life.

Happy Fall to All,

Hoping that everyone had a relaxing, fun filled summer. I sure did. One of my dreams was to see Spain, Portugal, and Gibraltar. Countries that I have never visited. Yet, I am fluent in all three languages. So, 5 weeks later, I drag myself home having seen, tasted, experienced, and walked my way across all. It was a wonderful, no need to do again vacation.

Upon arriving home, the 2025 calendars arrived the next day. So, everyone that had ordered the calendars after seeing the originals, had them in the mail the next day. Then, I unpacked!

Corals and Florals is a beautiful calendar. I am proud to say that this is the 25th calendar of my art career, releasing the first one in 2000. And for all of these years, it has cost $25.00. The only thing that went up was the postage to send it. You can order online: https://coconutcoaststudios.com/product/2025-st-john-calendar/

My grandson, TJ Schutt will be joining me this year. He has finished (almost) at Savannah College of Arts and Design (SCAD). I am so very pleased to have him here with me. I am having my 80th(!!!) this year and would love to pass Coconut Coast Studios to TJ. So, with TJ’s help we will reopen the gallery mid October. And also resume the Facebook Live events each Wednesday, beginning in November. Patricia will be in and out, as she has aging parents that she is assisting in Florida.

So, even though I would love to retire, that does not mean that I will not paint anymore, And to that end, I have been invited to paint an image for the 2025 LIME OUT tee shirt. It is a huge honor and I will post the finished image, once the tee shirt is printed.

In spite of the weather forecasters dire warnings, we have been blessed with no major hurricanes thus far. I have a good feeling about this year. The weather here in St. John has been just beautiful. The water is warm and crystal clear. We are watching the peacocks feathers grow, as there is not much else to do this time of the year…..And speaking of birds, the flamingos decided to stay in St. John. This will be their third season.

Dove is anxiously awaiting your return. She is the most affected by the seasonal closings. She will be very pleased to see you, as will I and TJ.

All the best to you and yours,
– Elaine Estern
and the crew of Coconut Coast Studios