I Did It!!

I completed my very first ever art journal page!  This was the first week of Tangie Baxter's Art Journal Caravan and one of our prompts was to pick one word to define our upcoming year.  I chose the word "Believe".

Originally, I was planning to do this by hand.  I had my nice Moleskin journal all ready and the pieces were cut out but then I decided it was going to take too long because I had to wait for paint to dry and I really wanted to get it done before the next assignment is given tomorrow.  So, I decided to do it digitally instead.  I still plan to make a handmade version as well so I guess you could say this is my rough draft.

The funny thing is that this ended up taking probably the same amount of time because I spent forever messing around with photoshop brushes so I could get the look I wanted.  I was trying to make it look as authentic as possible without using a premade paper.  I wanted it to look painted.  I was only partially successful.  I managed to get the first layer down and looking pretty good but then anything I put on top looked weird.  I think I just need to spend a day really playing with all the brushes and figuring out what they do.

So, one layer of paint is mine and the rest is from several kits by Holliewood Studios.  Hollie's papers rock!  I hope I'll be able make something like them someday.

My goal with this page was to remind myself to think positively and not worry so much.  I don't know about you, but I occasionally get bogged down by all those negative voices in my head.  Ok, ok, actually it happens a lot,  especially now that I'm starting a new chapter in my life.  Just between you and me... it can be a little scary.

Believing Is Seeing

I believe...

I will be successful

It's ok to make mistakes

There is nothing to be afraid of

I am good enough

I deserve to be happy

I will make my dreams come true

I can do it

Anything is possible

Believe in Magic

Believe in yourself

She stood on the edge... and she unfurled her wings

Happy New Year!

It's hard to believe that it has only been a year since I made my very first blog post.  What a year it's been, creatively speaking.  It was a year of change and growth and challenges but what I treasure the most are the friendships I've made along the way.  I would like to thank you all for reading my ramblings and taking the time to comment.  It has meant more to me than I can put into words. Thank you!!

I have many exciting things planned for 2011.  You have probably already noticed the change in my blog design.  It was prompted by the launch of my brand new website.  Yay!  I'd love it if you'd take a look and let me know what you think.  Just click the "website" button at the top of my blog. 

I will also be opening up my first Etsy store in the next few weeks.  I'll keep you posted! :-D

And, I've decided to jump on Tangie Baxter's Art Journal Caravan.  I've never done any art journaling before so it's a little scary but I'm up for the challenge.  I think it will be good for me.

Whew, it's going to be a busy year!

Please see my Flickr page for credits