Scribble Picnic (How To Straighten Curls)

This week's Scribble Picnic theme, CURLS, took me back to my more preferred illustration style and I love it! Yesterday, Louise wasn't too thrilled with her wonky, curly hair. Ha! Ha! Today, she's discovered the perfect book to help her get a more straightened look. As you can see, her woodland friends have happily picked out their favorite "how to" books as well. (wink)

So, off they go, books in hand, to join us this week at Michael's picnic! Save us some apple pie, please!

Scribble Picnic (Boston Flower Bed)

This week's Scribble Picnic's theme was flower bed. My idea this week derived from a photographer who I follow in Instagram who captures his home town, Boston. As you can see, once again, I wasn't able to finish painting it in but at least you can get a feel for what I was "dreaming up" on paper. Once it's completed, I'll post again for everyone to see.

Until then, happy picnicking!...I'm grabbing my picnic blanket and am off to take a nap. Hee

Scribble Picnic (Thimble Hill Cottage)

It took me ages to come up with an idea for this week's Scribble Picnic theme - buttoned up - but I did it and Ella and her Thimble Hill Cottage turned out wonderfully! Come on in and take a peek as there are so many things to discover....including her buttoned up dress and fresh laundry hanging from the clothesline. I honestly can't decide what parts I like best. How about you?

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to finish painting my illustration in time to post. However, if you visit my Instagram you can view the work-in-process, including the start of my painting (3rd image).

Miss Ella and I will finish gathering items from her garden and then off to the picnic we go! We're looking forward to visiting with everyone over at Michael's cozy place. Happy Scribble Picnic!

Caring For Your Creative Soul

Since my last post of opening up with how I've been feeling these past several months, I've been able to focus a bit more clearly on what my daily intentions are for my life (...and those around me). On top it, writing that post helped me realize it's only been 8 months since months since we've been home in states and how we lived in 4 different homes in the span of just one year! Goodness! No wonder I've been feeling a bit wonky and off-balance with life.

Taking a bit more time out for me has been key, I think. Meaning, re-figuring out the work-life balance all over again. One might think I should already know this but what I'm learning is that when one goes through life changes, whatever it might be, often requires figuring some of those things out again. It also means, being OK with it and giving yourself permission to do so.

One of the things I've added to my "new" daily routine is reading more, and it's been refreshing. There are some fairly new magazines out addressing some good topics such as well-being and refreshing one's creative soul. Here are a few I enjoy - Breathe, Flow, and Frankie. Many times, I stumble upon articles discussing how important it is to care for ourselves, not just physically but emotionally as well. I mean, seriously, how often do you think about caring for yourself emotionally? It's not the very first thing crossing my mind when pondering about life and the list of things I hope to accomplish. However, it's important to keep this in mind as a deteriorating mental health eventually impacts one's physical well being. Sobering, huh?

I personally believe this is crucial for those who spend most of their time creating. Being a full-time illustrator takes a lot out of one both physically and emotionally. Coming up with a new piece of artwork on a regular basis takes quite a bit of time, not to mention, painting it. It may seem easy-peasy but there are some weeks I spend an entire day in the studio, only to walk away empty-handed. It can be quite discouraging, let me tell you. But, I remind myself it's OK and that tomorrow is a new day! Caring for your creative soul leads to a healthy, balanced life. Isn't that what we all want?

Scribble Picnic (Goodnight sweet 'Ele')

Baby Lyndon....that's his name. Born July 2nd of this year and his room is already filling up with elephants. (Hence the title, "ele".) Several weeks ago, a long-time follower on my Facebook art page messaged me to request a custom illustration for her brand new grand-baby. The only requirement? - including a stuffed elephant.

My goal with this illustration was to create a long-lasting story to follow Lyndon growing up as a little boy. I'm very pleased with the results and my client is as well! In fact, she's head over heals with it!

Up until last week, I wasn't sure how I was going to capture Michael's latest Scribble Picnic theme, curtain. But, here we are...this sweet picture captures it quite well. In fact, I'm wishing I had a magical room like his! How about you? Can you spot all of Lyndon's favorite things in his room?