Friendship, a sheltering tree

A couple of years ago, my dear friend Kristi Steiner and her husband Bill moved just a few miles from me.  Kristi is one of the most talented artists I have ever known, and so generous in spirit.  This is one of her latest, luscious creations.

  I was lucky enough to be invited to Kristi's lovely studio, in her beloved Wren Cottage last week for some delightful "art play". We only spent a few hours together, but feeling Kristi's creative energy so inspired me to get back to my art table.  Seeing her beautiful work gave me the impetus to pick up my art journal, full of white pages... and begin filling it with sketches and washes of color.

I always have to "name" my working art journals. It makes it seem more like a "real" book, and helps me keep a commitment to my work.   I decided to call this journal "My Heart's Song".  I sketched and watercolored my little bird on my favorite-in-all-the-world paper--Fabriano Artistico hot press watercolor paper.  The paper takes the watercolor like nothing I've ever used before... just luscious! I then cut out my little bird and branch, and applied him to the first page of my sketchbook.

For days, we have been wedged in with the "gloomies", making it so dark in the house for painting. But today the warmth and sunshine have returned, bringing rays of light beaming into my little art space.... Ahhhhhhh.....

Trying my hand at doodling, I used a piece of fabric as the inspiration for my sketches.  I did change the color palette, but had fun with my Derwent Inktense pencils, copics and watercolors.

I decided I could take small steps... starting small...and then growing...

I have been focused too, on gratitude for the many blessings in my life.  Friendships are some of life's greatest joys.  I have been blessed with some of the best friends on the planet.  

I hope you'll spend some moments today counting your blessings, too.  It makes life so much more worthwhile.  Enjoy the sun today, if you are lucky enough to see it.