Inspiration Galore

I guess you could call it a tradition, that with each new year, us girls (my mom, aunt and cousins) get together for a yummy breakfast and page through lots of lovely magazines to put together collages of things that inspire us. After trimming and taping, I've re-validated my obsession with all things pink and lovely:


Ah yes, and this outfit... reminded me of Peter Pan and the "Peter Pan Syndrome" of never wanting to grow up.

Eye-Candy-Heaven. Off to start a painting for my living room.

'Do It Afraid'

You know that feeling when you get an idea in your head and you think it's got huge potential but you don't know the first thing about how you should handle it? Well that's me. Uh, let me rephrase that. That's been me for the past oh...9 months or so. I've been carrying around this feeling for much too long. So today I've come to the conclusion that you just do it AFRAID.

So in the process of doing this 'thing' afraid,


Especially if you're a sewer! I've had this urge to purchase a sewing machine. Mind you, I really don't know how to sew. Okay, so the last time I touched a sewing machine was back in sixth grade in my Home Ec. class when we made a pair of shorts and matching top. So to help me out, I got the new book by Anna Maria Horner called, 'Seams to Me - 24 New Reasons to Love Sewing'.


So where does that leave me? With way too many sewing machines to pick from. Here's what I do know: I don't see myself sewing garments, but more like handbags, blankets,... maybe quilts. I'd like to stay under $400. I've heard Singer isn't made the way it used to be - and more and more, I've noticed Janome being a top pick. Especially the Janome ThreadBanger12.


So if you have a sewing machine brand you really like or one you'd recommend, please leave me a comment and share!

On a side note, today I handed over my interview questions to the blog, Heart Handmade. On February 9th, Marichelle will be featuring me and my art and I will also be able to show you something new that I've been working on - the 'something' that has been taking my time away from Elegant Journey. I'll be sure to give you a reminder to head on over to check it out when it's posted.

Add to your MadisonReeceDesigns Jewelry Collection!

MadisonReeceDesigns has just released another one of my illustrations, Little Sprout, as a jewelry pendant on her Etsy site. Go check them out and order yours while they last!

I'm loving the way the rich magenta background plays with the contrast of the vibrant green leaves. When I drew this piece, I was thinking of how much it takes for a tiny seedling to turn into a strong, rooted plant. We don't 'SEE' the seed transforming, but we 'TRUST' that the seed is growing... and soon, we have proof of its transformation when it pokes through the ground.


Oh,...just following my dreams, having lovely conversation with my talented and courageous, dear Stephanie... *smirk* and painting glorious cupcakes. :)

'Nearly Nested'

A while back I mentioned my art was being used on some of the jewelry pendants by MadisonReeceDesigns. I got my 'Nearly Nested' bird piece in the mail from Melissa the other day and was really happy with the way they turned out. I love the chain that it's on too.

Check out her Etsy shop for other pieces illustrated by me as well.

Warm Banana Muffins

Yummy in my tummy. Warm banana muffins for breakfast. Find the recipe at Simple Recipes.

After 12 days of relaxing, organizing my studio, painting, getting some house stuff done and working towards my business goals for 2009, it's back to work for me today. I feel refreshed and ready to start the new year. With new inquiries about my art and a few tricks up my sleeve for Elegant Journey, I have a feeling this is going to be my *best year yet.

What are your resolutions for 2009?