I never would have thought I would be living at my parents in my 30's with my two children. I have been painting murals throughout the summer in the town they live in. There are perks though — they live on the beach of Lake Huron. This has lead to many great art projects.

My daughter and I were needing a little special time, so we took a long walk together. During this walk we collected "special" rocks, sea glass, and pretty shells. I would suggest taking a little bucket or bag along for these treasures.

Once back to the house we oiled up the rocks. Yes, I will explain this. Everyone loves seeing rocks while they are wet — it shows all the nuances and bright colors. Well, after years and years of collecting rock/stones, it took me until my college days to realize that putting oil on rocks keeps them looking like they are wet. I would take my rocks and roll them over my cheeks and nose area to brighten them — a bizarre Niki moment — but it is natural oil! My daughter Sela and I lubed up our hands with olive oil and glazed a little oily love to all of our special rocks from our walk.

I purchased a $3 wooden frame from a local dollar store. We used this frame to glue all of our treasures to and frame a photo I took of her on our walk. Don't buy special glue; find one you have around the home. Elmer's glue will work, but it will be a hair runny and take longer to dry. If you use Gorilla Glue (which I love) use a teeny, teeny bit — it expands. Any type of super glue will work great. We used Household Glue, Silicone Sealant by GE — it worked for us because Sela could squeeze the tube.

Glue your brilliant finds all around the frame, and you will have "A Day at the Beach" frame!