The start of my New Years resolution

Painting is my passion, my hobby and my learning experience. The more I paint the more I wish to paint. I made the commitment to paint 52 pieces this year. My New Years resolution-to paint one a week.

#1 Giraffe Twins

My first painting was a Giraffe. I was happy to sell this to my friend Ginny. The Giraffe Twins is from a photo I took years ago at Six Flags, Great Adventure Safari. I kept this photo and have always wanted to illustrate it. I kept my brush loose and was pleased with the outcome.

#2 Key West Proud

I took this photo in Key West last year in early February. What a gorgeous and proud Rooster. I have not painted many animals, but think that this is a good exercise in change.

#3. Cedar Beach Pinks

This is one of my favorite places in NJ. Cedar Creek Beach is a short walk from our cottage in Bayville and it has some of the most gorgeous skies and water reflections. I walk there all the time, and have painted this spot on many occasion. I am always inspired by my walks to Berkeley Island Park

#4. Iggy the Iguana

Wow I love this creature! He is so pretty. Who knew such a little monster could be so colorful? Iguanas are living on my sisters property in the Florida Keys, and in other tropical areas. I found the incredible coloring for this guy on line while doing some research, but the photo inspiration came from my friend's winter vacation photos to an island.

#5. Giant MVP

I am not so fond of watching football, but don't mind the Super Bowl. I thought that it would be fun to predict the winning team and start on this during the game. I did watch a few commercials and the halftime show. I am not thrilled with this guys face..My version of Eli Manning kind of looks like a teenager. 

# 6. The Valentines Crystal Rose

I wanted to paint something that had to do with Valentines Day. Hubby gave me roses years ago and I complained about how much money he spent! That was not a good idea. No more roses for me. Valentines day is our son Mike's Birthday, so it is special to us, but not in the way it is to most people. I now have roses to last me many Valentines days.