A Labor of Love

So you have no doubt seen a lot of little snippets, bits and bobs and pieces of my work lately. Well, all of these little glimpses have been a part of a larger picture, and I have been pursuing my dream of storytelling: I have illustrated a book! I'll share more details in the weeks to come, but until then I want to savor a beautiful melancholy-ness in my heart.

This pile represents all of the days, and minutes, and months, and weeks that I have joyfully poured into my first book. It's a wonderful feeling to actually be able to reach out and hold a piece of time like this! I can not wait until you, too, can hold this tangible form of time.  

I am thankful.

Drawing Cozy

Something I have been busy working on lately that has a lot to do with coziness. Finished watercolor to follow.

The Kindergardener Snake

The Kindergardener Snake   8.5"x11"  watercolor on paper

Here it is! The finished illustration I painted and designed for a guide on the Python computer programming language written by Mike Driscoll.

Since the subject of the project revolved around a vintage school house, mice, and a friendly snake, I titled the finished piece: The Kindergardener Snake. I had so much fun creating this little school house scene for a book on learning and teaching yourself a modern language!

Book Cover: WIP #1

The beginnings of a fun project I am working on. Painting mice and a friendly snake, for a book cover on Python computer programming! 

More sneaky peeks coming soon!

Sweet William

Sweet William   8"x10"  watercolor & ink on paper

A Sweet William peddler employs the help of a friendly, obliging snail who is pulling along his little cart full of spring cheer. 

Maggie Among the Magnolias

Maggie Among the Magnolias   8"x10"  watercolor & ink on paper

A fairy and a robin make for the best of friends. These two are singing the sweet first notes of spring.

February 10th was when I spotted the first robin in my backyard. And now, we're having a taste of spring here in Michigan this week, and I must say that I a little bird told me it was coming.

Happy Valentine's Day: Froggie Went a-Courtin'

Froggie Went a-Courtin'   8"x10"  watercolor & ink on paper

Miss Mousie has a pleasant surprise waiting for her outside of her front door. Froggie has come a calling for her hand, with a bouquet of waterlilies. It seemed so appropriate for a Valentine's theme, and being animals I couldn't help myself.

Wishing you a very Happy Valentine's Day- whether that means sharing the day with a sweetheart, a friend, family, a loyal pet, or extending some love to the natural world around us. Even if there might not be a frog outside your door with a bunch of posies, I hope today has a few special surprises for you as well! ♥ ❤ 

Clover Bunny

Clover Bunny   6"x8"  watercolor and ink on paper

It's important to remember to stop and smell the flowers, like this little bunny. Afterwards however, she might enjoy it for lunch.

The Woodland Halloween Troupe

The Woodland Halloween Troupe   10"x8"  watercolor and ink on paper

A bit of woodland autumn fun, just one of the reasons why October is my favorite month in the year.

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A Parliament Owl

A Parliament Owl   5"x7"   watercolor & ink on paper

When a group of owls are gathered they are called a Parliament. Here's a barn owl who is a practicing student of law, in all of his powdered wig goodness.

Rainy Day Companions

Rainy Day Companions   9"x9"   watercolor & ink on paper

Dear friends sharing an umbrella in the rain, having fun splashing through puddles along the way! I imagine singing is involved as well. All of these ingredients make for the best way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Wildflowers & Bunnies

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A sweetheart of a bunny is enjoying her fragrant clover. She'll probably nibble on it in a minute or two, but for now she's taking time to stop and smell the posies. 

Inktober: Day 7

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A gathered group of owls are called a parliament, and I couldn't resist. Tucked under a wing is his book of law, and he is residing over the local Aviary Parliament.

Inktober: Day 4

Another day of inking in October: White clover and a friendly bumble bee. 

Inktober: Day 3

Happy October my lovelies!

Many apologizes for the silence I have been exhibiting the past month, but there have been a great many things that I have been working on that must remain under wraps. Secrets can be fun, and other times I wish I could let the cat out of the bag!

Anywho, I am getting a late start on Inktober, but am participating none the less! Here is a corner of a bird and floral piece I have been drawing this afternoon. More inking to come in this lovely, beautiful, dreamy brisk month. My favorite of all the calendar year... October! 

Here's to the wind, the apples, the leaves, the cinnamon, and pumpkins, each one chock full of magic and full of childhood delights I shall never outgrow! 

Summer Dreaming of Autumn

It's no secret that autumn is my favorite time of the year. So even though sweltering summer is upon us, my thoughts are on October...

Holiday Thinking & Inking

That time six days ago when this little holiday piece was being inked. ✎ ❄ ❅ 

Inking Work

The humble beginnings of a little mouse.

Rambling Jack Rabbit

Rambling Jack Rabbit   7"x7"  Watercolor, gouache & ink on paper

Rambling Jack has wanderlust and loves a good adventure. Most rabbits are content to stay in their woods and fields, but Jack is on his way to see the world. Right now he is going to visit his Aunt Hattie and three little cousins, Elliot, Rose, and Buttons.  

He's asking directions from a local owl, as Jack had heard they are supposed to be very wise. 

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