Just keep practising!

This is my second challenge from Different Strokes from Different Folks. I tried to work on the tonal quality of the buildings receding into the distance. I thought I'd failed miserably but now I look at the scanned image, I can see that I have managed to get the buildings to look like they're going into the distance. They really are a challenge these DSDF pictures.

I did this EDM picture with my new watercolour pencils. I like the way I seem to have more control over them - I'll enjoy experimenting with these.

More from the journal

This is EDM No. 97 - a gift I have received. I chose the ring my mum sent me from Crete. With hindsight I wish I drawn it on my finger but ho hum!

Have you noticed I've learnt how to use the scanner - much better for my journal pages.

Everyday Matters

In my efforts to focus my mind on things other than work and 'the big move' I have joined an online group called Everyday Matters. Every week they post a subject to draw. You can do them in order or not. You can do the most recent ones (like I have) or go back over old ones which I have done in my journal without realising it.

I am beginning to really value the online community. There are some extraordinary people out there - artists, crafts people, writers and all round talented folk. I find them truly inspiring and my experience so far has found everyone to be kind and encouraging. I posted some of my journal pictures on Flickr and had some very nice comments - it really warms my heart to think that someone I don't know takes the time to comment on my efforts.

So what with Everyday Matters and Different Strokes from Different Folks I have no shortage of arty inspiration.

Still creating

A few recent pages from my journal. I am joining the Everyday Matters group which I hope will inspire my journal entries, encourage me to challenge myself and stop me worrying about 'getting it right'.

I did it!

I've been creative over the last couple of days and here's the evidence!

My visual journal entries for the weekend.

Bernard the snow penguin



Coffee cake and fruit loaf, baked for Sunday tea.