Photo of the Week

 I wish I was here!  I miss the southern California coast so much right now......

Artist Inspiration

Watercolor Textures by Ann Blockley

 When I checked this book out from the library last week, this lady instantly became one of my new favorite artists! She uses watercolors in such a unique way.  Her paintings are full of life, expression, textures, and beautiful colors.  Sometimes, they don't even look like watercolor because of the richness and texture of the paint. 

I know it will take me many years to every attain this level of skill in watercolor, but I had to try right away anyway.  Here are a few of my water-coloring- Ann Blockley- Style experiments.

Crochet Flower Headband

Here is my first head band for an adult!  I usually don't have the guts to wear things like this outside the house, even though I think they are cute.  Most of the time, I'll put it on and get out the door, then let myself get all self-conscious and I take it off by the time I get in the car.  Ya, kinda lame.  So I decided I wasn't going to let that happen again and I wore this to the store.  It kept my ears nice and warm and I felt cute that day!

Since I can't remember exactly how I made it and I've never written a crochet pattern before, I'll just give you some specs on it, in case anyone out there wants to make one :)  Its very simple and quick to make.

Crochet Headband Pattern

11 Double crochet wide using an H hook
About 32 rows long- or just make it long enough till it fits snugly around your head

Watercolor Fruit

Oil painting is still my favorite art form, but I'm learning to love watercolor too.  I love how it turns out when I'm patient with it.  Here's an apple I painted last year.

Photo of the week

I'm back from my vacation, so on to more crafty stuff!  But, first, let me say... 

Happy New Year! May 2011 be everything you hope it will be!

Ok, now here's a lovely winter sunset to enjoy.