Linda, congratulations on your recovery! If your looking for inspiration, you could paint a self portrait that's more about how you feel instead of working toward a likeness. I don't know if that's something you would be interested in doing, but I thought I'd make the suggestion since it helped me.
Beth that puppy is SO cute! And looks like she is full of mischief!
I have a 'living room' studio, too, which works out great because I can keep an eye on my boys (11 & 7) and get between them before any major blood loss. Did I mention that they're both in karate? ? I've thought about moving into another room so there wouldn't be as many distractions.... but this is safer.
Renee