Debbie's Art Works

New Sketches from Classwork

2012-01-22T08:23:00.006-05:00

Good morning all and welcome to this weeks submission for Sunday Sketches with Sophia! I hope you will join us this week! Here are a few sketches I've been working on while taking I Heart Drawing with Jane Davenport.

This last one, has a quick sketch I did for a card for my mom. She fell recently, and is planning to have knee surgery. The image on the right is the one I want to use on her card.

I'm not sure what the card will say, but something like "This is what you will be able to do once you have your knee surgery!"
I'm heading over to my daughters for the day, so it might be a little late before I get around to visit everyone today!
Have a great day!

New Sketches

2012-01-08T09:16:00.004-05:00

Good morning! I was busy the last couple of weeks with the holidays and family visiting, and I've missed everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and the new year will be filled with happiness and creative fun! Below are a couple of new sketches from the class I'm taking:

I also played last night in my art journal with water colors:

I didn't mention this before Christmas, but I had a cancer scare! I finally had my first mammogram and 10 days later, I received a note in the mail saying there was something showing that needed to be further examined. I went for another mammogram and then an ultra sound on Dec. 27th, a whole month later! I had a few sleepless nights, waiting for that date, but thank God, the 2 spots turned out to be benign! I hope everyone, will take the time to have a mammogram each year. I never should have waited this long to have my first one!
Well, I'm heading over to Sophia's blog to join in the Sunday Sketches fun! I hope you will join me! Happy Sunday!!

The Story Revealed and A Winner

2011-12-11T13:17:00.004-05:00

Hello all and welcome to this weeks submission for Sunday Sketches with Sophia. (See link on right) But first, the story I've been writing for my granddaughter is finally told! Here it is in short form: Olivia the owl, decides that she has outgrown her home, so it's time to move! She searches high and low, but nothing else is as nice as her own home is. The birds nest is outside in the bright sunlight, the cave is too cold, all of the other trees are filled and the rabbits nest is full too! She goes home and decides to give away her boxed stuff, that she's not using anyway, and low and behold, her house is perfect for her again! There's even room for another chair so company can visit!
The only person who mentioned, moving was
Jehanne's doodles said...
Oh the book is looking great!!
The book is about an owl :)and he is moving ??
November 13, 2011 1:37 PM
Great guess Jehanne! You win, so please let me know by email (cocains@yahoo.com) what you would like from my shop and your address. Thanks everyone for your encouraging comments each week!
Here is something new I've been working on:

I'm currently taking Jane Davenports "I Heart Drawing" and it is really fun! She has a great way to teach how to draw bodies. The next lesson is about hands! I can't wait for that one, since I've always had trouble drawing hands!
Well, I'm heading over to Sophia's to see the other submissions this week. I hope you will join me!
Have a great Sunday and week!

Finished Book for SS

2011-12-04T10:50:00.005-05:00

Good morning all! Welcome to this weeks submission for Sophia's Sunday Sketches! Thank you Sophia for hosting SS!! Below are the last 2 pages of the book I'm making for Josie for Christmas.

I have the words to add and the cover to finish, but at least most of the work on this project is done! Any more guesses as to what the story is about? Someone had a close guess last week! If no one guesses, I'll do a random drawing a still send out a painting from my shop! My way of saying thanks for stopping by and leaving your encouraging comments each week! They mean so much to me!
Please join in the fun at Sophia's blog and see what everyone has been creating! (link on the right)
Have a great week everyone!

Almost Finished -Sunday Sketches

2011-11-27T08:32:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone and thank you for your wonderful comments on my book I'm working on for Josie. It really encourages me and I appreciate each of you! Below are 3 more pages, leaving only 1 more double page! This weeks submission to Sunday Sketches should give the story away, so I hope you will keep guessing! The first person closest to the real story can have their pick from my Etsy shop!

Well I'm off to finish this Christmas present and cook my turkey! We didn't have Thanksgiving on Thursday like most Americans, but we are celebrating with my son and his family today! Yesterday, we drove to my daughters house and spent the afternoon with them! It's been a fun weekend! I'm heading over to Sophia's blog to see what everyone else has been making this week.(see link to the right) Have a wonderful Sunday!

More On My New Book For SS

2011-11-20T08:49:00.005-05:00

Hello all and Happy Sunday! Below are 3 more pages for my book I'm making for Josie for Christmas.

Any guesses this week on what the story is about? If not, next weeks pictures will definitely give it all away! The first one to guess correctly, wins their choice of art from my Etsy store, and I'm planning to add more pieces this week! Here is one I'm working on, that I hope to have done!

It's hard to see, but it's another plaster on wood with lots of yummy texture. I can't wait to add the color!
I'm off to see what everyone else at SS has been making this week! (see link on the right) I hope you will join us!
Have a great week!

More work on the new Book for SS

2011-11-13T07:11:00.005-05:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday! This weeks submission for Sunday Sketches are below. They are more pages in my book I'm making for Josie Ann for Christmas. My goal is to complete 2 double pages each week.

If I can keep getting this much done each week I should have her gift ready!
On a different note, I'm thinking about having a fun giveaway. It would involve guessing the story to my book, and the first person to guess the closest, would win one of my paintings from my Esty shop. Anyone interested? Then have fun guessing!!

Starting a New Book

2011-11-06T07:53:00.009-05:00

Hello all and welcome! I am joining Sunday Sketches this week and below is my submission:

It doesn't look like much, but before I could start my sketches, I had to use sandpaper and gesso for each page in the board book. Then I planned out each page with the words and pictures. Finally, I could start the pages themselves. I still have more to paint, but I wanted to show you what I had so far. I just wish I had a better name for the main character, the owl. I originally thought of Olivia. Does anyone have any other suggestions?
I spent last week with my daughter, who just had her second child, a girl! Here is Josie Ann, in one of her Halloween outfits:

She is the sweetest baby who hardly ever cries! (Well, I hear she does at 3am!)
Levi is now 2, here is a picture of him:

How cute are those cheeks!
My other grandson Grant, also had a birthday recently and is now 3! Here he is with his favorite gift!

Is that the happiest face or what!
My other granddaughter, Ashlyn, also had a birthday recently and is now 1.

She is so cute! I'm certainly blessed with 4 wonderful grandchildren!
I hope you will join us this week for Sunday Sketches! (The link is on the right)
Have a wonderful week!

Finished sketch for Sunday Sketches

2011-10-29T09:03:00.003-04:00

Hello all! My daughter had her baby on Monday so I will be traveling on Sunday to stay with her for a week. Which is why I am posting my painting for Sunday Sketches today! You may recognize this painting from a couple of weeks ago. I did this for a friend at work, who lost her father a couple of years ago.

I'll link to Sophia's blog (See link on right) tomorrow and hopefully get around to see what everyone with SS has been doing on Monday!
Have a wonderful weekend and week!

New Sketch and Halloween Project

2011-10-16T09:02:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone and Happy Sunday! Below is a new sketch for the SS group over at Sophia's blog. (See link on the right)

I'm still working on her, especially her hands! She might show up on this background.

I found the cutest pumpkin project for halloween, over at Alisa Burke's blog. I had to try it!

How cute is that?!!
I hope everyone has a wonderful relaxing Sunday!

New Watercolor & Acrylic Paintings

2011-10-09T10:14:00.006-04:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday! I played with my watercolors again today, but with a fall theme.

I've also started thinking about a new story for my granddaughter who should be born by the end of the month. Here is the main character:

Here is a painting in progress, with acrylics and plaster. I love how the plaster has so much texture!

Finally, I got these adorable handmade cards in the mail Friday, from my good friend Sophia!

She is also the host of Sunday Sketches, which I hope you will join me by checking out what other artists have been making this week! Have a wonderful day!

New Beach Watercolor Painting

2011-09-25T09:25:00.004-04:00

Good Morning and Happy Sunday! I'm still playing with my beach pictures and water colors. Here is my latest attempt:

I think this one is a little better then last weeks which is all due to my new class I am taking with a wonderful artist, Alisa Burke. If you haven't heard of her, please check out her website!
That's all I have for today, but I'll be working in my art room most of the day, so I hope to have more soon! Please check out Sophia's blog and I hope you will join us for Sunday Sketches!

Beach Sketches

2011-09-18T15:31:00.006-04:00

Hello everyone! I'm a little late with my submission to Sophia's Sunday Sketches, but I had my granddaughter's first birthday party to attend! Here are a few sketches done in water color from my beach trip last week.

This last one isn't really a beach painting, but it was just fun to do!

I'm off to see what everyone else has been up to! I hope you'll join me by going to Sophia's Blog!
Happy Sunday!!

Sunday sketches-my beach trip!

2011-09-11T09:48:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone! I am off to the beach for the next week, but I haven't posted in a while so I wanted to share what I've been making.

The first painting isn't finished, but the other 2 are! I'll be on the road for the next few hours, but I should be able to go see the other submissions for Sophia's Sunday Sketches later today. I hope you will join me! Have a wonderful day!

New Sketch and Finished Page

2011-08-14T07:55:00.004-04:00

Good morning and Happy Sunday! I'm giving a baby shower for my daughter today, so I am posting early, but I won't have time to see everyone else's entry for Sophia's Sunday Sketches until later today. Here is a reworked sketch that I started weeks ago, but just didn't like how it turned out.

I have more to do before I start painting, but I like this sketch better!
Below is my red page (it looked orange in the picture I took!)I posted last week, with a girl I had sketched weeks ago, all painted.

That's all I have time for now! Have a wonderful Sunday!

Sunday Sketches with Sophia!

2011-08-07T12:14:00.007-04:00

Hello all and Happy Sunday! I have a couple of journal pages that I worked on this week.
This is a favorite day dream of mine. Me and my kids and their families living near each other!

I loved this pose I found in a magazine, so I wanted to practice it.

I journaled along the edges, "don't let fear of tomorrow, steal your joy today." She is praying for peace. With everything happening around the world and here in the states, it's hard not to worry about money, jobs and the future. I've been reading Joyce Meyer's book, "Battlefield of the Mind." She is a great teacher of this principle.
Here are a couple of pages I started and will add images to as the ideas come:

That's all for this week! I hope you will join me by going to Sophia's blog (see link to the right) and see the other wonderful artists who have participated this week. Have a fun day!

Finished sketches and new one!

2011-07-24T11:26:00.003-04:00

Good morning and welcome to another Sunday Sketches hosted by Sophia!(see link to the right) Below are 2 sketches that I colored with pencil and paint. The one was added to my art journal, but I haven't decided what to do with the 2nd one.

I've been trying to improve my side view, so here is one of my practice sketches.

The hand still needs a little work. Another area I struggle with, but it's fun to be challenged.
We had a good service at church today about courage, and it reminded me that we are in a battle everyday, but God has already won the battle. We just need to trust Him.
I hope you are enjoying a restful day!

New Sketch Painting and Book

2011-07-17T14:14:00.006-04:00

Hello! I've been busy with different projects this week. Below is my entry for Sophia's Sunday Sketches: (see link on the right)

I also worked on this painting.

And last, I made a new sketch book which will be in my Etsy Shop later today.

I hope everyone has had a good weekend! We just got back from watching Horrible Bosses, which was the funniest movie I've seen this year. I'm still laughing!
Have a great week!

Sunday Sketches

2011-07-10T10:13:00.005-04:00

Good morning and welcome to my latest submissions for Sunday Sketches with Sophia. (see link on the right)

I did these both rather quickly while watching tv a couple of nights ago. I hadn't sketched in charcoal in a long time, so it was fun to do something different.
I hope you'll join in the fun and add your name to Sophia's blog! I'm off to see what everyone else has been sketching this week. Have a wonderful day!

Sunday Sketches

2011-07-03T14:08:00.004-04:00

Hello and Happy Sunday! My husbands birthday was a couple of weeks ago and I made this painting for him:

It has our letters to each other from years ago, (1985 is the date on mine!) and our kids birth certificates, along with the receipt from my engagement ring. There are a few other memorabilia from our 33 years together. The t-shirt he is wearing is one he actually had years ago. (a play on our last name!)
I think he really likes it since it is hanging in our living room. :-)
I'm off to see what everyone else has been sketching! I hope you'll join me and the others by going to Sophia's blog. (see link on the right)
I hope you all have a wonderful week!

New Paintings for Sunday Sketches

2011-06-19T13:15:00.005-04:00

Hello and Happy Sunday! I have this bad habit of starting paintings then taking my time finishing them. Below are 3 that I had in various stages, and finished up this week.

This last one is in my art journal.
Well, I'm off to see what everyone else has been sketching over at Sophia's blog. I hope you will join us!
Happy Father's day to all the dads out there!

Sunday Sketches

2011-06-05T14:39:00.004-04:00

Hello and Happy Sunday! I'm a little late posting today, because we went to church then to see a movie. I played in my journal yesterday and used some pan pastels that I bought last year but only used 1 other time.

I also used them on this canvas which still needs to be finished:

I really liked the pan pastels...they go on dry and really make a creamy background. You just have to remember to spray them with a fixative when you're finished.
I'm off to see what everyone else submitted for Sunday Sketches! I hope you'll join us!

Finished She Art for Sunday Sketches

2011-05-22T08:19:00.004-04:00

Hello all and I hope you are enjoying a relaxing holiday weekend! I finished a painting I had started a couple of weeks ago from the She Art class I am taking and I'm submitting it for this weeks Sunday Sketches with Sophia.

I spent the day yesterday with my son and his kids. What a fun day! I took my grandson to the river nearby where they recently put in a walkway. He loves throwing rocks into the water so we didn't actually get much walking in. My granddaughter is growing so quickly and I loved just holding her and watching her smile.
Today I'm off to watch Bridesmaids. Has anyone else seen it? I hear it's hilarious!
Well I'm heading over to Sophia's blog to see what everyone else has created this week. I hope you'll join us!
Happy Memorial Day!!

Boat Painting

2011-05-22T08:19:00.003-04:00

Hello everyone and welcome to my submission for Sunday Sketches with Sophia. (see link on the right) I saw pictures of tugboats on the internet and decided to try something different for this week. My grandson has a nautical theme in his room so he might get a larger version of this small painting.

I'm catching up on my scrapbooking so this is all I have for now. I'm off to see what everyone else is doing over at Sophia's blog. I hope you will join us! Have a great week!!

2More Small Paintings

2011-05-15T09:32:00.004-04:00

Good Morning all and welcome to this weeks submissions for Sunday Sketches, hosted by Sophia. (see link on the right)

I may add some words to the last painting, then she is off to someone special...my daughter, who loves Paris!
I'm heading over to Sophia's to see other wonderful sketches. I hope you will join me! Have a wonderful week!

New Paintings in Progress

2011-05-08T09:27:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone! I hope you all are having a wonderful Sunday, and Happy Mother's Day to all the moms! Below is a sketch that I then put on a background I had started last week.

Here is another small painting in progress.

I love this small size! It's perfect for putting in my cube at work. This one will say "She is beautiful in His eyes". I'm off to Sophia's blog (see link on the right) to see what other Sunday Sketchers have been making. I hope you will join me!

Finished Sketch & 2 New Paintings!

2011-05-01T12:26:00.004-04:00

Happy Sunday everyone! I hope you all are enjoying a relaxing day. Below is my finished painting I started a couple of weeks ago.

I'll have it in my Etsy shop later today if anyone is interested in buying this painting.
I also took Christy Tomlinson's She Art class this last week, and finished these 2 paintings.

I took the class to learn how to paint backgrounds in a more relaxed manner. Mine always seem so stiff, and take me forever to do! I have to say, she throws everything and the kitchen sink on her backgrounds and it's such a fun way to paint! I really relaxed and just had fun with both of these pieces! I bought more canvases yesterday, so expect to see more!
I'm off to check out Sophia's blog and find out what everyone else has been making this week! I hope you'll join us! (see link on the right)

Sunday Sketch

2011-04-24T10:22:00.004-04:00

Good Morning and please visit Sophia's blog for more wonderful artist who are participating in this weeks Sunday Sketch! Below is my progression with last weeks sketch.

Her hair needs another layer of paint and this one should be finished!
She is sending out a message of God's Peace & Love to everyone! Happy Easter !

Sunday Sketch

2011-04-17T12:40:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone and thank you so much for your support and wonderful comments. They are so encouraging and I really appreciate you all! Below is this weeks Sunday Sketch along with how I started the background.

I still have a way to go to finish this one, but I'm liking it so far!
And finally, here is my painting from last week, with an added sketch, but still not complete.

I'm off to see what everyone else submitted for this weeks sketches! I hope you'll drop by Sophia's blog and join me! (see link on the right)
Have a wonderful day!!

New Sunday Sketches

2011-04-10T09:01:00.007-04:00

Good morning and thank you for dropping by! I finished a painting last week and started on another one. The first one is similar to one I did in my journal, but it's now painted on an 8x10 wood canvas.

It has many layers of paper, paint, stamps and molding paste and was really fun to make!
This next painting is only about 1/2 way finished.

I started one like this, but didn't like where it was going, and I may just end up painting over it. I'm enjoying this new one so much more!
We had a big storm last night with large hail! Here is a picture of the hail we saw.

Hopefully we don't have any damage to our roof! Some of the hail was golf ball size! My son and his family lost power so they came over for a while.
Stop over to Sophia's blog to see other wonderful sketches! (The link is on the right)
I hope everything is going well for you all on this Sunday!

Sunday Sketch

2011-03-27T11:05:00.003-04:00

Good Morning! I had a stressful week, which is why I came up with this sketch...my reminder that He is always with me.

I'm on vacation this week, so no stress going on now! :)
If you want to see other sketches, check out Sophia's blog. (see link on the right)
Have a wonderful day!

Sunday Sketch

2011-03-20T10:09:00.006-04:00

Good morning all! I don't have a new sketch this week, but I painted the flowers from last week.

It turned out ok, and I might try again on canvas instead of in my journal. Below is a finished painting that I really love.

I wish I could visit that little hill and stare up at the stars. We were supposed to be able to see the super moon last night, which only occurs once every 18 years, but it got too cloudy to see anything. Did anyone else see it? In case you didn't hear, the super moon just means that it was a full moon and closer to the earth then usual.
I hope everyone has a happy Sunday and great week!xoxo (check out the link to the right to go to Sophia's blog and see other wonderful sketches!)

Sunday Sketch and Baby News!

2011-03-13T09:59:00.005-04:00

Good morning all and welcome to this weeks entry for Sunday Sketches hosted by Sophia. (see link to the right) I couldn't resist these beautiful tulips at Harris Teeter yesterday.

And here is my quick sketch I did in my journal, which I hope to paint later today:

I made a few changes to a painting I posted a few weeks ago, after Wyanne critiqued it, and here is how it looks:

I love it so much more. Thanks again Wyanne, for the awesome "Tough Love Creative" class! If you are looking for one on one coaching, her class is perfect!
And now for the baby news...Yes! My daughter Tori and her husband Dean are expecting their 2nd child in October! Here is the way they told us when we went to visit 2 weeks ago:

This will be our 4th grandchild! We are so blessed! Have a happy Sunday everyone!

A finished Sketch

2011-02-27T07:54:00.005-05:00

There won't be any Sunday Sketch this week, due to an illness in Sophia's family. Her father is very sick and Sophia would appreciate your prayers. I have my sketch finished from last week, so I thought I would share it.

I have 2 other paintings in progress:

Today is my son in laws birthday party, so I'll be heading out shortly to go spend time at their house. I'll visit everyone when I get home. Have a wonderful Sunday!

New Sunday Sketch

2011-02-20T11:27:00.004-05:00

Good morning everyone! It's Sunday again, and time for Sunday Sketches! I hope you'll visit Sophia for other wonderful sketches! (see link to right) Below is my entry for this week.

It's in the messy stage right now, but I hope to have something completed by next weekend.
I gave my friend at work her picture I made for her and she loved it! Here it is completed:

Well, I'm off to see what everyone has been making this week. Have a great day!

Sunday Sketch

2011-02-13T12:16:00.003-05:00

Hello all! Below is this weeks Sunday Sketch, hosted by Sophia.

I painted many layers then added stamps and collage. It's a little different then my usual style, but it was fun to just let loose a little and not think too much.
I'm off to see what everyone else has been up to over at Sophia's blog. I hope you'll join in!
Have a wonderful Sunday!

Sunday Sketch

2011-02-06T11:57:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! I've worked for several days on finishing my sketch from last week, so I don't have a new sketch. I may still make a few changes, but here is my painting so far.

A friend at work lost her father just before Christmas. One of the last things he said to her was that he saw birds in her eyes. As a Christian, she and I both thought about the holy spirit and think he might have seen a vision, just before leaving this earth. This was the inspiration for my painting.
I'm heading over to Sophia's to check out everyone's sketch! I hope you'll join me!

Sunday Sketch

2011-01-30T07:54:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone! Below is last weeks sketch now finished!

I saw the most beautiful sunrise on the way to work a couple of weeks ago, which inspired this painting. I only wish I could have pulled over and enjoyed the sight a little longer. The colors were so bright and vivid I couldn't help but appreciate God's work.
I'm still working on my new sketch, but here is what I have so far.

Hopefully I'll have time to finish it later today.
I can't wait to see what everyone else has been creating. I hope you'll join us over at Sophia's blog!

Sunday Sketch

2011-01-23T10:45:00.005-05:00

Good morning everyone! I had company last week, so I didn't participate in Sophia's Sunday Sketch, but here is what I've been working on for a new class I'm taking with Wyanne, "Tough Love Creative." Wyanne is an awesome artist and teacher and if you are looking for a class to take, I recommend one of hers! Here is what I am working on for the class:

I still have a lot more to do!
Well, I'm off to see what everyone who signed up for the Sunday sketch has been creating. I hope you'll join me!
Have a wonderful creative day!

Sunday Sketch

2011-01-09T10:09:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone! It's Sunday once again (yah!) and below is a sketch I've been working on.

Has anyone been following Millianda's January journaling? She's been working with the letter, Z and making all kinds of fun pictures with Zebra's. Below is my attempt, which I'm calling How To Tame A Zebra. If anyone has seen the cute movie How to Tame a Dragon, you'll know where I got my inspiration!

That's all for now! I have another sketch I'm working on, but it needs more work! I just realized yesterday I have 1 week to finish my sketches for the Sketchbook Project and I have 3 pages to go! Yikes!
Have a wonderful fun and creative week! xoxo

Huge January Sale!

2011-01-03T08:04:00.003-05:00

I always appreciate each and every person who visits my blog and especially those who offer encouraging words, so to say thanks to everyone for your friendships over the last 2 years, I'm offering all of my items in my Etsy shop at a 50% discount! Just use the coupon code JANUARY2011.
Thank you and Happy New Year everyone!

Sunday Sketch

2011-01-02T10:01:00.009-05:00

Good morning everyone and Happy New Year! It's raining here today, which is good, as we were 7 inches short for 2010! Below are my entries for this weeks Sunday Sketch, hosted by Sophia. (see link to the right)

Here is another quick painting I did earlier this week.

We had such a nice time with our family this year, on Christmas, and even had snow which is very unusual for South Carolina!

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Sunday Sketch

2010-12-19T12:28:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! I hope you are enjoying a relaxing weekend! Below is this weeks Sunday Sketch, hosted by Sophia. (see link to the right)

My story has 1 last page, so it looks like I will make the Christmas deadline! And in case anyone is wondering, we have a black cat with a little white, who was once a stray. :-)
I'm off to check out the other participants for this weeks sketches. I hope you will join us!

Sunday Sketch

2010-12-12T09:29:00.003-05:00

Good morning! It's raining today, and since my throat is a little scratchy, I'm planning to stay in where it's warm and dry. :-) Below is this weeks Sunday sketch hosted by Sophia.(-see side bar)

Here is my painting from last week, finished!

He'll be in my Etsy shop later today.
I hope everyone is well and having a good weekend!

More Book Finished

2010-12-05T13:55:00.006-05:00

Hello and Happy Sunday! I've finished a few more pages of my granddaughters book...I'm starting to think I'll really have it finished by Christmas!

I've also been working on this little guy:

I still have more to add, and hope to work on him more tomorrow.
I can't wait to see what everyone has been creating! Have a happy creative week!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T07:57:00.003-05:00

Thank you to all of the wonderful people who come to my blog and encourage me in my journey! May God bless you! Happy Thanksgiving!!

Inspired

2010-11-22T11:44:00.000-05:00

Good morning! I was inspired a few months ago to paint this first picture, but it took me awhile to get all the details just right.

Here is another page finished in my Sketchbook Journal Project:

I still have this afternoon to play in my room, so I should have more pages finished for the book I'm making.

New Sunday Sketch

2010-11-21T14:41:00.003-05:00

Hello all! Below is this weeks Sunday sketch, another page in my granddaughters book. (see link to right if you want to see other wonderful sketches)

I'm on vacation tomorrow, so I hope to have at least 2 more pages ready to show. I'm getting close to the end! I'm sure you've been able to guess what will happen when the people return from their vacation. (smiles)
I'm heading over to Sophia's to see who else signed up this week. Have a great day everyone!

Sunday Sketch

2010-11-14T08:26:00.003-05:00

Happy Sunday everyone! Here are my sketches for this week...more pages in my granddaughters book I'm making for her.

I can't believe Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away already, and then Christmas soon after! This year has really flown by! I have 1 more class I want to take, Alisa Burke's color theory. Has anyone taken it? Her post is very encouraging about drawing every day. I've tried before to find time for it everyday, but it's so hard to do, since I work full time. Does anyone else have that same problem and have you found a way to make time?
Well, I'm heading over to Sophia's blog to see what everyone else has been sketching this week. Have a wonderful day!

Sketches for New Book Continued

2010-11-07T08:53:00.006-05:00

Happy Sunday everyone! Below is this weeks sketch for Sophia's Sunday Sketch. (see link to the right)

This is page 3 & 4 in the book I'm writing for my granddaughter. Speaking of Ashlyn, here is the outfit she wore last weekend for Halloween.

and here is my grandson Grant in his Halloween costume.

and here is my other grandson Levi.

I'm off to see my daughter Tori for the day. It's her 30th Birthday!
Have a great week everyone!

And the Winner Is...!!

2010-11-06T12:41:00.002-04:00

Last Sunday I had my first giveaway and here are the results of the random number
Min:1 Max: 11 Result: 11 Powered by RANDOM.ORG
I had trouble figuring out how to get the whole picture to show. Maybe someone can let me know how to download it?
The winner is #11 and that person is Marilyn Rock! I hope you'll check out her wonderful blog! She is very talented and such a nice person to know! Marilyn please email me your address so I can send you your picture.
Thanks to everyone who entered my first ever contest!

Sunday Sketch & A Giveaway!

2010-10-31T11:45:00.005-04:00

Good morning all! I've started a book for my granddaughter Ashlyn, as a Christmas gift. Below are the first 2 pages.

The story is about an incident that really happened to us, but of course I'm embellishing a little for the book. Here are the same pages painted. I still need to add the words.

I'm off to check out Sophia's blog to see who else is participating in her weekly sketches. If you want to come along too, then check out her link on the right side.
I've decided to have a give away for this painting!

All you need to do to enter to win, is become a follower and leave me a comment on this post. That's it! Good luck everyone!

Painted Sketch

2010-10-24T18:14:00.004-04:00

Hi all! Here is last weeks sketch completed!

I've had a busy day with some of my family, which is why this post is so late! My oldest grandson turned 2 this week. Here he is with his favorite gift...balloons!

If you want to see other sketches, check out Sophia's blog. (see link on the right)
I'm off to see what everyone else is up to...have a great week!

New Sketch & Finished Painting

2010-10-17T11:30:00.005-04:00

Happy Sunday everyone! Below is this weeks sketch, which I will use as a reference for my new painting I'm planning.

I was in Charleston this week and took pictures of the buildings which is where I got the inspiration for the sketch.
Here is last weeks sketch, finished.

And finally, here is a painting I showed you a couple of weeks ago, that I'm now done with...except for a coat of wax.

That's all for now! I'm heading over to Sophia's to see what everyone else has sketched today! I hope you'll join me!
Have a great week!

Sunday Sketch & an Explanation

2010-10-11T12:38:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! I missed posting yesterday, partially due to company all weekend. Here is my sketch I worked on over the weekend. (for more sketches, check out Sophia's blog with the link on the right)

This started as a scribble, then I looked at it from different angles and saw the chair and 2 cats. This is another idea from the Paint Free class I'm taking. I had several comments from my blog friends, wondering about the Paint Free class. What Wyanne is teaching, is how to let go and find your own style of painting. I'm really enjoying the class, so if you are interested, follow the link and please let me know if you join the class!
Have a great week everyone!

A New Painting-SS

2010-10-03T15:54:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone! I hope you all are enjoying the weekend. We have had beautiful weather all weekend long and I'm loving it! Here is a painting I've been working on for Wyanne's class-Paint Free.

I'm almost finished with the sketch from last week...here is my WIP:
I'm off to see the rest of the Sunday Sketches! Check out Sophia's blog (see link on the right) for other wonderful sketches!

Sunday Sketch...Finally

2010-09-26T20:07:00.007-04:00

I've tried to find time all day to post my sketch, but was too busy until now. (check out the link to the right for more sketches hosted by Sophia)

I'm taking Wyanne's class, "Paint Free" and here is one of my first assignments.

I'm learning to relax and just paint without stressing and thinking too much. This seems a little busy compared to my usual style, but it was so much fun! I also took Wyanne's class "Mixed Media with the Girls." Another fun class, which is teaching me so many new techniques. Here is my first painting...almost finished. I just have a few more details to add and she'll be done.

And last but definitely not least, my granddaughter Ashlyn Faith was born on Thursday.

I'm so blessed!
Have a good week everyone!

Sunday Sketch

2010-09-19T09:39:00.003-04:00

Hello and welcome to another Sunday Sketch! Dear and I were at the beach last week and here is a sketch I drew while sitting in my chair.

Note to self; don't take an eraser to the beach...it ended up with sand stuck to it!
Check out other awesome sketches at Sophia's blog,(see link to the right)and have a fun Sunday!

Sunday Sketches

2010-09-05T12:09:00.008-04:00

Hello and welcome to this weeks Sunday Sketch, hosted by Sophia. (see link on the right)

She is already glued into my journal page and ready to be painted.
Below is my sketch from 2 weeks ago...almost finished. I just have a few more details to add.

Last weekend, my family came over for my birthday on Saturday and Sunday Tori and I had a shower for my daughter in law, Amy. It was such a busy weekend I didn't have time to post anything! Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the weekend.

Isn't Levi sooo cute?

Amy is due in 3 weeks!

Grant is adorable!
I'll be at the beach next weekend for a whole week and I probably won't have my computer. It might be a couple of weeks before I participate in the Sunday Sketch again.
Have a great week everyone!

Sunday Sketches

2010-08-22T08:47:00.004-04:00

Below is my Sunday sketch, hosted by Sophia. (See link to the right) I'm enjoying the weekly challenge to have a new sketch by Sunday and here are a few I worked on this week.

I'm practicing mermaids so I can paint one for my granddaughter someday, and the birdcage and birds are for the WIP from last weekend.
Here is my finished journal page for the Sketchbook Journal tour.

That's all I have for now, and I'm not sure how much painting I'll get done today. Yesterday was my birthday and friends are taking me to a movie today. Yah! We're going to see "Switched." Has anyone seen it yet? It looks like a fun movie.
Have a great day everyone!

New Sketch

2010-08-15T16:43:00.005-04:00

Hello and happy Sunday! Below is my latest sketch I started last week.

I think I'll add her to my journal and paint her this afternoon.
Here is my box I started last week...finished now.

I'm thinking of painting another box in pink, for my granddaughter who is due to be born in September. Maybe with an angel on it or a mermaid? I'm still in the planning stages for that project.
And finally, below is a painting in progress:

I really want to try adding some metal but I'm not sure what it will be. Any suggestions? I'm thinking of maybe a bird cage?
Well, that's all I have for now. If you want to see other sketches check out Sophia's blog. (See link on the right)
Have a good week!

Finished Sunday Sketch

2010-08-08T10:42:00.004-04:00

Hi all! I hope everyone is having a restful Sunday. Below is my Sunday sketch for this week. I've already completed it and it's in my new journal.

I wasn't sure where I was going with the purple, but I wanted to try using some different colors. I have certain colors I want to use all the time, and I really need to try working with something different.
If you want to see other sketches check out Sophia's blog. (see the link on the right)
I'm off to do some shopping! Have a good day!

New Sunday Sketches

2010-08-01T12:10:00.005-04:00

Happy Sunday to everyone! I've been working in my new journal for the Sketchbook Project that I signed up for recently. The only problem has been the thin paper. I tried to glue several pages together to make it sturdy enough for paint, but it just wrinkled the paper and in some cases, curled it. Next, I tried PVA glue, which seems to be better then gel medium. Anyway, here is my sketch and finished page.

I also played with a chipboard box I bought awhile ago from Hobby Lobby. So far, I've just painted the lid.

Well, that's all I have for today. If you want to see other sketches, check out Sophia's blog. (Link is on the side)
Have a wonderful day and week!

Finished

2010-07-25T10:23:00.003-04:00

I think I'm finally finished with last weeks sketch, but after I walk away I may change my mind. Something about her seems unfinished.

I signed up for the Sketchbook Journal Project, and my book came this week. I'm excited about getting started so hopefully I'll have a new sketch or completed page by the end of the day.
Happy Sunday everyone!

Sunday Sketch

2010-07-18T09:46:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone! I wasn't happy with last weeks attempt at a 3/4 view, so I tried again and like this one much better. (It was the nose I didn't like!)

I can't wait to start painting her!
And below is my painting I've completed for my youngest grandson's room:

I hope Levi likes it!!
If you want to see other wonderful sketches, check out Sophia's blog. (See link on my sidebar)

New Sunday Sketches

2010-07-11T09:50:00.007-04:00

I sketched a couple of new girls this week. (for more Sunday sketches see my link on the side bar) I'm trying the 3/4 face, but really struggling with it. Maybe one of these will get painted, I'm not sure yet which 1.

We had so much fun last weekend and again this weekend hanging out with family. Yesterday, my niece and her kids were here for a few hours, along with Tori and her family. Here are a few pictures from the visit. This first is my niece Katie loving on Levi:

and these are my 2 great nieces playing with Levi:

We had such a good time. I only wish everyone lived closer so they could visit more often!
Have a great week everyone!

Sunday Sketch

2010-06-27T08:54:00.007-04:00

Hey everyone! This weeks Sunday sketch originated with a painted background and then progressed into a pulled painting!

...almost finished...

Finished!

This was such a fun way to paint I can't wait to try it again!
While on Mystele's blog, I saw her use a paper bag from the grocery store as a canvas and loved the idea! It's a great way to try out an idea.

What a freeing experience! I wasn't worried about messing up a canvas so the paint just flew onto the bag!
As promised, here are a couple of my favorite pictures from last weeks visit with my kids and their families.

Happy Sunday everyone!

Biggest Bead Giveaway

2010-06-23T20:46:00.002-04:00

Wow! This contest on Denise's blog is amazing! Please check out her giveaway here!

A New Face

2010-06-23T20:14:00.003-04:00

I finished face #3 in my class. It was a challenge for me to get the colors just right especially in the cheeks. (they actually aren't quit this bright, but the camera just picked up the color even more!) I think she could use a little more work, but I've set her aside for now.

We had such a nice Father's Day this past weekend with our kids and grandkids, but I'll have to post pictures another time, as they are all on husbands camara!
Have a good week! I hope to post more paintings on Sunday!

Back from the Beach

2010-06-16T20:51:00.008-04:00

We had such a nice weekend at N. Myrtle Beach last weekend. Here are a few pictures I took of our trip.

me...

and Russ...(better known as "dear")

I had a little time the last couple of days to finish another painting from Sharon's class.

I hope everyone's having a good week so far! The weekend is just 2 days away! Yah!

I Won Again!

2010-06-09T19:45:00.004-04:00

I was so excited to win a contest recently, on Diane's blog, one of my favorite artist! Please check out her blog here! This is what I won!

She looks awesome hanging on my wall, where I am inspired each time I see her. :-) The book was inspiring too! Thanks again Diane!!
And here is the finished painting that I started on Sunday.

We are off to Myrtle Beach on Friday for a long weekend. It's my hubby's birthday and I'm treating him to a mini vacation. Have a good week everyone!

New Class and Sketch

2010-06-06T14:14:00.007-04:00

I signed up yesterday, for Sharon Tomlinson's all faces class and this is the 1st sketch she has us do.(ck out Sophia's blog for more sketches!)

I'm excited about her class after watching the first few videos! She has some awesome tips for sketching a face and getting it on the canvas. Her painting techniques use inexpensive craft paints and the canvases were only $1.00 at Michaels! How cool is that!
I'll have my first painting to show by next weekend!
Here is a painting I finished up that I started last weekend. Right now, it just needs a final coat to seal it.

I made this for someone special so if she likes it I'll be mailing it out in a day or so.
Here is the promised picture of the baby bird that left its nest last week.

My camera focused on the leaves, so you really have to look for him or her?
I can't wait to hop over to everyone's blog and see what you have been creating!
Have a good week!

Quick Sunday Sketch

2010-05-30T10:45:00.005-04:00

I only had a few minutes for a sketch today, but wanted to try a face from this angle. If you want to see other wonderful sketches, check out Sophia's blog.

Here is my girl from last week, in my journal.

And finally, here is a quick collage I did with some paper I made. (sorry the picture is so bad!)

The baby birds are out of the nest and I had a picture of one of them, but my computer is having issues, so I can't post it now. (hopefully later today!)
Have a restful Sunday!

Sunday Sketch

2010-05-23T09:10:00.005-04:00

I finished my sketch early this week, and I'm looking forward to seeing who else is participating and what they drew. If interested check out Sophia's blog!

Here is my sketch from last week, now completed!

If you guessed she was holding an umbrella, you were right! (I liked the other guesses so who knows...maybe they will show up in a later drawing!) This umbrella has wings, protecting her from the storm. In the grass are the words trust and faith, which is what the storm is growing in her life.
Speaking of growing, look what we found in this hanging planter outside our kitchen window:

Here is what we found inside last week:

A Carolina wren has been busy since they hatched a few days ago. I'm trying to get a picture of the babies, and will post it if I do.
Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!

Sunday Sketch

2010-05-16T17:00:00.003-04:00

I guess my girl still has more to say...She is looking up and much happier this week. Does anyone have any guesses as to what she is holding?

I'm going to head over to Sophia's blog to see who else is participating this week.
Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!

I Won!

2010-05-12T20:15:00.003-04:00

I was so excited when I got home from work today and found this came in the mail:

I won this from a wonderful artist, Nicola! She has so many cute pendants and paintings!
I hope everyone is having a good week.

More Flowers & WIP?

2010-05-09T07:36:00.004-04:00

This painting started out to be all daffodils, but something happened to the larger one and it started to look more like a sunflower...so I went with that instead.

I don't think this one is finished, as I'm not real happy with the background. I tried the alcohol technique and even though it was fun to watch the paint move around, I'm just not sure if it looks like rain. The story on this painting is taken from the verse in Psalms 91:4, "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge..." The girl is so troubled over the storm around her, she forgets to look up and see that God is in control and protecting her.

We got to babysit our grandson Grant yesterday and played with him in the sprinkler. It was so much fun! Today we are off to our daughters house to see our youngest grandson's dedication service at the church.
I hope everyone is having a good weekend so far!

Sunday Sketch

2010-05-02T19:16:00.002-04:00

I've wanted to try the Sunday Sketch's with Sophia and found some time this afternoon. I was so involved in the drawing that I didn't realize I had added color before taking a picture.

She's going into a painting I have planned and hope to have done before next weekend.
Have a good week everyone!

Revised April Painting

2010-05-02T14:20:00.004-04:00

Something seemed to be missing from this painting, and when I saw my jar of these:

I knew they needed to be added!

There! That's better! :-)
I'm trying to get my Sunday Sketch done, so hopefully I'll have more to post later.

April Showers...

2010-05-01T10:10:00.003-04:00

Saturday is finally here! My windows are open and I'm enjoying the quiet morning while finishing up a painting I started last weekend.

I must be on a blue and yellow kick these days as those colors keep showing up. I really like them together...they just make me smile! :0)
What colors make you happy?

Deborah

2010-04-25T10:02:00.005-04:00

I've been working on this painting for a couple of weeks. I had so many attempts that just didn't look right, and it wasn't until I glued her down on the wood, that I noticed this time I had made her neck a little long! Yikes! It was fun painting her and using my molding and crackle paste. Deborah is who I was named after, and I've always found her story to be interesting. She was a judge who was also a mother...hence the title, working mother! I think she may have taken her kids to work with her and that's why she met people out under the trees, but that's just my idea, and not exactly what it says in the Bible. You can check out her story in Judges in chapters 4 and 5.

My irises are blooming next to my mail box and they look so pretty! I transplanted them last year, so I wasn't sure if they would bloom this year.

Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!

Spring Flowers

2010-04-11T18:55:00.004-04:00

Easter was a busy day, with both of my kids and their families here for the day, my in-laws in for the weekend and my mom here for the week. Here's my favorite picture of everyone, except my husband, who took the picture.

I definitely have the spring fever bug and after my mom left I pulled out my watercolor paints. Here are a couple of my paintings:

My mom and I spent the week shopping, visiting our museum and having lunch out a few times. Here we are at the restaurant just down the street from us, having a late lunch of crab cakes and pumpkin bisque. (YUMMY!)

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter!

Safe

2010-03-29T19:33:00.002-04:00

I've been working on this angel for 2 weeks now, and I finally finished it!

It's wrapped and ready to go with me to work tomorrow.
I finished my spring cleaning this past weekend and should have more time to spend visiting everyone's blog in the next day or so.! I can't wait to see what everyone else has been up to!
Have a happy creative week!

My 1st Angel

2010-03-18T20:04:00.003-04:00

I've never painted an angel before and after taking Suzi's class, decided to try one.

A friend from work lost her baby boy last month and I had been wanting to do a journal page in memory of him.
I want to do a version of this on a larger scale and I've started the sketch. If it turns out I'll see if my friend wants it.
Goodbye for now sweet Carter! I'll see you and Renee again some day.

Spring Is Here...Finally!

2010-03-14T11:51:00.004-04:00

It seems like we have had the longest winter since we moved to SC, but spring is finally here! We went to the spring show in Charlotte last weekend and I couldn't resist taking pictures of the beautiful flowers:

With family visiting and spring cleaning it seems like there hasn't been much time to spend in my craft/art room, but here is something I've been working on:

I've missed seeing what everyone else has been doing, so I'll be visiting your blogs today!
Have a wonderful week!

New Faces

2010-02-20T08:15:00.004-05:00

I have really neglected my computer this week, but I've been busy working on several projects. Here are just a few of them:

I'm feeling sad today, thinking about a blogger friend who is sick. Some of you may know her; Renee from Circling My Head is in the hospital. Please pray for her that she will fight off the cancer once again!
Have a blessed day!

Crown of Beauty

2010-02-13T21:54:00.003-05:00

I'm having so much fun with the new class! Here is another picture I worked on this week.

I have 2 more in progress and hopefully will finish at least one of them tomorrow.
We had more snow yesterday and last night. Here is a picture of my backyard this morning.

Of course most of it melted today, but it was pretty while it lasted.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend and Happy Valentine's Day!

Journal Spread-Free Class Opportunity

2010-02-07T17:17:00.005-05:00

I was visiting Julie Prichard's blog and she is giving away a free class! I loved the classes I took last year and would love to win a free one! If you are interested in a color class, you might want to enter too!
I finished another journal page today. The 2 faces were done in different styles. I think I like the one on the left the best. What do you think?

I hope your Sunday is restful!

First Painting

2010-02-06T15:08:00.003-05:00

I finally finished a painting from Suzi's class! There were more steps then I thought and it took me several days to get the face just right. I can see I still need more practice, but I'm happy with the way the shading turned out.

Thank you everyone, for your sweet comments on my grandsons painting! You all are so encouraging and I appreciate you so much!
Have a fun and creative weekend!

Painting with Wings

2010-01-30T14:09:00.003-05:00

I just finished this painting of my grandson Grant.

I might add a quote across the top, and touch up a spot or two once it dries. (How do those white spots suddenly pop out??) Otherwise, I'm pretty happy with it. I just wish I was better with noses! Which is one of the reasons I just signed up for Suzi Blu's Portrait class! I'm so excited! Hopefully I'll have some new improved drawings and paintings soon.
Happy Saturday everyone!

Great News & Other Stuff

2010-01-27T19:46:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday we had a birthday party for our daughter-in-law Amy, and Grant was wearing this shirt:

Yes! We are going to be grandparents to another baby! Hurray!
In other exciting family news, my youngest grandson has his first tooth! Pictures to come...but here is one taken recently by a wonderful photographer in Southern Pines:

I've been busy working on a swap with some girls here in Charlotte. Here is my sample:

and finally, a new journal page:

Have a good evening!

She's Holding onto Hope

2010-01-17T19:22:00.004-05:00

No matter what life brings us, when we have God, we always have hope. This is what I was thinking about, when I finished this painting. You might have seen the beginning of it while I was taking Misty's class last fall.

I was going for a bleak look to the landscape, sky, and even in her dress. I'm not sure if I was able to convey that, but I always learn more with each painting I do.
Have a good week!

My Favorite!

2010-01-16T19:24:00.003-05:00

I found the prettiest paper several months ago, and I finally used it on this journal.

I also used Fabriano 140 lb hot press paper. I made one for me, but this one will go in my Etsy shop, as soon as I get some better pictures.
Have a wonderful weekend!

Journal Page

2010-01-11T19:51:00.002-05:00

I wasn't sure where I was going with this page. It started with a background, designed to cover up the first awful background. Then, while I was trying to decide where to paint a girl, I saw the bird...so instead it turned into this:

I think there might be a cat lurking in there somewhere too...

New Journal

2010-01-09T15:50:00.003-05:00

I started this journal a couple of days ago, but ran out of paper. I finally had time to go to Cheap Joe's for another sheet. I used full sheets instead of the folded note cards. It took a little more time, but I enjoyed the process even more then before.

I have another journal I've started, but this time, I plan to use a pre-painted rice paper.
I hope your Saturday is full of creative fun!

2 More Sketches

2010-01-07T20:07:00.004-05:00

I've been keeping up with the sketches, but didn't have time to post yesterday.

This was a picture of Brooke Shields I found in a magazine.
And here is a drawing of another girl in an add for jeans.

I might try to paint her...we'll see!
Tomorrow is Friday!! :-)

Journal Fun

2010-01-05T20:30:00.003-05:00

I played in my journal recently and drew this girl. She reminds me of my teen years in the 70's!

I tried something a little different with her hair..not sure if I like it or not, but it was fun to try something new.
I'm trying to draw everyday this month, sometimes just a sketch in pencil. Here is one of my drawings from Sunday.

Hands are so hard for me, so I try to find different ways to practice them.
Well, I'm off to watch a movie! Have a good evening!

A New Year

2010-01-02T17:33:00.007-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year with our family, and really enjoyed our grandsons with their gifts.

How was your Christmas?
I found a little time this past week, to work on painting faces...

...but I have a problem and I hope someone can help me. I can't get a really nice clean line for eyes and lips using the stabilo pencil. Are there any products that draw over paint, but have a thin point?
Any suggestions are welcome!!
Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Merry Christmas To All!!

2009-12-25T08:43:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone, and a happy and blessed New Year!

New Painting

2009-12-21T16:46:00.004-05:00

I finally finished shopping and wrapping for Christmas and had some time to paint. I really wasn't sure how this would turn out, since I started with a picture of my daughter and made some changes to her pose. (Sorry Tori!) I loved the original picture but wanted to try some of the techniques I've been learning in Misty's class.

I'm on vacation from work starting Dec. 24th through Jan. 3rd. I'm really looking forward to a nice long break!!