Goodbye Frosty!

Goodbye Frosty

Pastel  5x7

Looks like Frosty the Snowman is waving goodbye to us.  Guess that means our snowman month is over.  But don't you cry--I'll be again someday!

I have enjoyed this month so much visiting with all of you.  Your comments and suggestions have meant so much to me and warmed my heart on these frigid winter days.  I sincerely hope you have enjoyed this month of lighthearted fun as much as I have.  Thank you--thank you for your time, support and encouragement!!!  You're the greatest!!!

I'll be back . . . 

Ole Purple Hat  --  Day 30 of the 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge
THE VERY LAST DAY!!!

Ole Purple Hat

Pastel  5x7

Two things I can hardly comprehend--that January is almost over and that the 30 Day Challenge has ended.  When I signed up for these challenges (this being my second one), it seems so daunting, but once I get "into it", it just flies by and I've enjoyed both of them SO much!!!  I benefit so much from participating in these challenges--growth in painting ability, confidence, meeting new people, hearing from ole friends and much more.  Now that it's over, there will be benefits too--such as a cleaner house, hot meals, etc. but I'd rather paint!

Oh, back to Ole Purple Hat--I was just looking for an excuse to use my beautiful purples, blues, pinks and he just dressed up so nicely in those girlie colors.  So guys, you need to take note.  Maybe you need to shake up your wardrobes and add a little spice to your life.  Color is a good thing--never shy away from it!  Try it--you'll like it!  Look how handsome he looks!

You are ALL so wonderful to have visited with me every single day for an entire month.  It made me want to be sure I didn't miss a day and that I delivered something that would, hopefully, brighten your day and bring a smile.  You kept me going when other things were pulling me away, and made me want to take time to paint and post.  You cannot possibly know what an impact you have on me and my art.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!!!! 

Don't go away--there will be more!

The Conductor  -- 30 Day Painting Challenge  -- Day 29

Guess what?  28 snowman paintings and we FINALLY got snow yesterday--about 1 1/2 inches, but hey, it's the white fluffy stuff and we haven't seen any in a couple of years, so you could say we are excited!!! I had almost given up, but here it is--beautiful!  Oh yes, we got a bonus(???)--19 degrees last night deep in the heart of Dixie! Last week, it was 11 degrees.  Let me tell you, our snow people are lovin' it!
This good looking fella in his green duds just looks so much like he is conducting an orchestra--thus the title.  As soon as I looked at those graceful arms, I just knew he could conduct a great piece of music.  Plus, he's dressed for a night to remember!  Did you notice that he even conducted the snow to fall in the same color as his attire!?!  Cool!

After the high of Monday's announcement of the lucky winner--I'm so glad we've got a special snowman to lead us into the last day of the Challenge.  We needed him to see us through.  

Sister Snowgirl  -  Day 28 of 30 Day Challenge

Since I did 2 brother snowmen, I decided I'd do a sister one also and dress her in a pretty bright pink hat and scarf to match and even the snow matches her outfit!  Since the family thing keeps coming up, let me tell you just a little about my family.  Actually, I have the best sister in the whole wide world!!!  Couldn't have picked a better one if I'd had the opportunity!  She is amazing!!!  And 4 brothers--count 'em--4--they are sweet, thoughtful and loving and I'm so fortunate to have them in my life!!!  I've already mentioned my parents early in this challenge.  I have the best family anyone could ever ask for!!!  That leads to some very important people in my life--4 wonderful grown children--a son and daughter in law; a daughter and son in law and 6 grandchildren.  They are beautiful, wonderful, extraordinary and bring so much pride and happiness into my life.  I'm so proud of all of them!!! Last but certainly not least, my sweet, supportive and helpful husband--I told you about him in the first challenge.  Unfortunately, I don't have enough snowmen/girls left to depict each one of them but trust me, they are all extra special!!!  I am truly blessed!!!

Building a Snowman  --  And the WINNER is . . . 

Celebrating One Year of Blogging

When I started drawing out my idea for this painting, my plan was to draw a child building a snowman.  But about mid-thought, I decided it would be so cute to have a snowman building a snowman and so nothing else would do.  I really like the way it turned out, a little one building a big one.  Plus the snow shows up so well on the dark background.  

It was a big step for me to start an art blog on January 27, 2013--a little scary to "put myself out there" and know that I had to think of something half way intelligent to say with each blog post--frightening.  But it has been the most amazing journey--meeting new friends from near and far and connecting with old friends.  Thank you ALL for being so diligent commenting on the paintings and posts.  I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your time, support and interest in my art this past year.  Since January 27th of last year, I have had almost 7,000 visits to my blog. 

Farmer Snowman  -- Day 26 of 30 Day Challenge
The LAST Day to enter for a chance to win a Snowman Painting

My son wanted me to paint this little farmer snowman with his pitchfork and hay.  Instead of shoveling snow, he's shoveling hay--must have livestock to feed in this frigid weather we're having this winter.  He sure did dress nice for work in his red plaid shirt and straw hat.

The Very LAST day to enter the drawing is already here.  You must enter a comment by midnight tonight for a chance to win a free painting of One Round Snowball painting which is featured on Day 15.  This has been so much fun!  I hope that you have enjoyed following and commenting as much as I have enjoyed reading each one of them and visiting with you via the internet.  Time has just flown by and tomorrow morning, we will all know who the lucky winner is, so stayed tuned.  Remember that we are all winners because we have taken the time to share with each other and had some lighthearted fun each day.  

Friends  -- Day 25 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge
Enter to Win a Painting - Time is About to Run Out

Friends

Pastel  4x8

I went from a large closeup view yesterday to tiny little people today.  These friends are out for a snowball party and you're invited to come play.  The little girl in the middle hasn't decided if she's happy about this party or had rather be doing something else, but the one in the black hat is just lovin' every minute of it.  He'd make a great playmate.  Come join the party and throw a few snowballs. 

Oh, and while you're at it, don't forget to comment on this blog, Facebook or email for a chance to win the painting of Day 15.  You only have one more day to enter.  Don't miss out!  Good luck!

Mrs. Frosty --  Day 24 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days
Enter to win Original Painting

Mrs. Frosty

Pastel  8x8

You know there had to be a Mrs. Frosty and I think she just looks like the sweetest little grandmother type.  Bet she can cook good too--oh no, I forgot, she is not allowed close to a stove.  That would be a disaster.  Well, you know she would be great with the kids--lots of hugs and attention and play time.  

You can see that I'm back on my closeup kick. There's something about those closeup views that I just enjoy painting.  Don't forget to comment to enter the drawing for that painting!

Mr. Frosty  --  Day 23 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days
Enter to Win an Original Painting

Mr. Frosty

Pastel   8x8

When I named this big ole fellow, he reminded me of the original Frosty in the song, story books, etc.  But maybe my memory is foggy because the song says he has a button nose.  Maybe I need to look up the original and see if there is any resemblance at all.  He looks pretty happy and I know he would play with the children if they would just put down their devices and come out to play--come on kids! Original Frosty didn't have to compete with devices--times do change.  However, I'm sure that if we got snow down here in Georgia, those devices would be forgotten and ole Frosty would have lots of playmates--some things never change.  

Enter to win a free original snowman painting.  Just enter a comment on this blog, Facebook (link is just to the right of this post) or email.  Each time you comment, your name goes in the snowman hat for a drawing on January 27th.  Good luck!

I want to thank all of you for your wonderful comments!  Keep 'em comin'!

Red Earmuffs  -  Day 22 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days
Enter to win a Painting

Red Earmuffs

Pastel  5x7

Look at this--it's snowing blue to match her clothes.  Now, that's fashion conscious!

Can you believe that we still have not had snow!?!  The cold weather is sure lingering, but no white stuff to go with it.  I know this little lady in the matching red winter attire would like to have a blanket of snow to insure her safety for the remainder of the winter.  Snow, oh snow, where art thou?  

We are giving away a painting One Round Snowball from Day 15.  To enter the drawing, you only need to comment on this blog, Facebook or email and your name will be in the snowman hat.  Comment every day for more chances to win.  Best of luck!

The Judge -- Day 21 of the 30 Day Challenge

Enter to Win a Painting!

The Judge

Pastel   8x8

After I painted this and set it aside to ponder over what might need some attention, I knew the title just had to be The Judge.  He just looks very authoritative--not sure if would want to be in his courtroom.  But then again. . . he does look like a pushover.  He's a snowman!--he has to be sweet and fun lovin'.  Anyone that wears that bright blue hat can't be too tough.  I present to you The Judge.

We've had lots of comments and that ole snowman hat is gonna be full.  Don't be left out in the cold--get those comments in.  They're so fun to read, and I sincerely appreciate each and every one of them!

It's All About The Nose  --  Day 20 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge
Painting Giveaway!

It's All About The Nose

Pastel   8x8

Just the head and the nose--you know I like closeup views, and I thought this one was just what we needed to show off the details of the snowman.  He's sure got a big ole nose!  Bless his heart!  (Southern for, "I'd hate to have THAT nose!")

Have a fun Monday!  Is that possible?--of course it is!  Don't forget to comment--the more you comment, the more chances you have to win!  We've got one more week to get those chances in to win a painting to celebrate the One Year Anniversary of my art blog.  Drawing will be held on January 27th.  Don't miss the fun!

Stylin' Snowgirl  --  Day 19 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days
Painting Giveaway!

Stylin' Snowgirl

Pastel   5x7

This little snowgirl knows the lastest styles, and is showing it with her chevron hat, scarf, jacket and mittens.  Plus, she's all wrapped up and warm--as warm as you can be and be made of snow.

If you're just joining the snowman parade on this blog, I am giving away the painting of Day 15 entitled One Round Snowball.  All you have to do is enter a comment on this blog, or Facebook or by email.  The more times you enter, the more chances you have to win.  The drawing will be held on January 27th--the One Year Anniversary of starting my blog.  Good luck!

Hope you are having a pleasant weekend!  Remember those comments!

Howdy Pardner  --  Day 18 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days 
Painting Giveaway!

Howdy Pardner

Pastel   4x8 

My sister suggested that I paint a cowboy snowman, so here he is saying a big hello to each and every one of you!  He might be a sheriff--he has star on his belt.  Don't know why he didn't pin it on his vest.  How 'bout that 10 gallon Stetson!

Don't forget to do your homework and comment somewhere, somehow, some way to win a snowman painting.  Tell your friends--they might want to enter.  You can comment here on the blog, Facebook, email.  Drawing will be held January 27th.

A Gray Day  --  Day 17 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days
Painting Giveaway!

A Gray Day

Pastel   5x7

It really does look like a cold, gray day here, but that red scarf and hat band really brightens things up a bit. I don't think I could stand out in the snow like he's doing.  I like to play in it a while, but the warm fire keeps beckoning me to come inside (on the rare times we do get snow).  As much as I do love snow, I like it in small amounts and short periods of time.  My snow hat is off to our northern neighbors who live with it all winter long.

Remember that each time you enter a comment on the blog, Facebook and/or email, your name will be entered into a drawing to win the Day 15 painting.  The drawing will be held on January 27th--the One Year Anniversary of starting my blog.  Good luck!

Thank you for all your comments!!!  Every comment is special to me, brightens my day and gives me renewed energy to keep moving forward.

Help, I'm Falling  --  Day 16 of 30 Day Challenge
Painting Giveaway!

Help, I'm Falling

Pastel   5x7

We need some help here--he's falling over.  If a big wind comes--he's down for the count.  Maybe things will stay steady for the remainder of winter and he can keep his footing.

If you missed yesterday's post, I am giving away yesterday's painting One Round Snowball.  Just enter a comment on my blog, Facebook or email and your name will be entered into a drawing--you can comment on all three.  Drawing will be held on January 27th--the One Year Anniversary of starting my blog.  Good luck!

Remember to comment and have more chances to win!  Invite your friends to join the fun!

One Round Snowball  -- Day 15 of 30 Day Painting Challenge
Enter to Win a Painting

One Round Snowball

Pastel    5x7  

To celebrate the 1 Year Anniversary of starting my art blog, I am going to give away a painting to one of you--my loyal friends and followers!  You can enter every day between now and January 26th to win THIS cute, little, round snowman wearing that pretty red scarf.  All you have to do is post a comment on my blog, Facebook or email.  Each time you post, your name will be entered into the drawing.  The winner will be announced on January 27--my 1 Year Anniversary!  The painting will be framed and mailed to you as soon as possible after the drawing.  

So, you have several days, several ways and several chances to get your name in the snowman hat!  Good luck!

Snow Belly  --  Day 14  30 Paintings in 30 Days
Look for an announcement tomorrow . . . 

Snow Belly

Pastel   4x8 

"Somebody put some more snow on my belly--I'm too skinny!  Someone didn't roll the snowball nearly big enough.  I'm going to melt!"  Sounds like this snowman has a problem--he's way too skinny, or so he thinks.  Most of us would like to have his problem.  Just looks like he's in good shape.   

Have a great day, and don't worry if you're too skinny--you look great!

Little Frosty  --  Day 13 of 30 Day Painting Challenge

Little Frosty

Pastel   5x7

Little Frosty is just standing in the snow looking for someone.  Sure does look cold there like a true January day.  Makes me want to stand by the fire, but he looks perfectly happy right there in the snow.  

Have a wonderful Monday!  Thank you for stopping by today!

Real Men Wear Pink  -- Day 12 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days

Real Men Wear Pink 

Pastel   4x8

Real men do wear pink or purple or any of those beautiful colors--they'd be silly not to.  This snowman looks great in his brightly colored scarf and hat.  I'd hate to have to carry around that nose everywhere, but it looks good on him.

Well, we still haven't seen any snow in these parts--instead we got a winter thunderstorm complete with lightening.  Not exactly what I had in mind, but there's still plenty of wintertime chances left the fluffy white stuff. 

Have a great day and thank you for your time and support!  

Floppy Hat  -  Day 11 of 30 in 30

Floppy Hat

Pastel   4x8

This little snow girl got carried away with choosing a tall hat, but I think it suits her.  She's also gotten out in a snow storm and got some really pink cheeks from the cold.  

Stay warm and cozy and have some fun on this January Saturday!

My Other Brother Snowman - Day 10 of 30 in 30 Paintings
And News to Share with You

Do any of you remember that goofy TV show from a long time back where the guy would say, "this is my brother Larry, and this is my other brother Larry"?  As soon as I finished these 2 paintings back to back, that show immediately came to mind and I started laughing.  I knew I had to name these paintings My Brother Snowman and My Other Brother Snowman.  Maybe they should have just been named Larry.  Anyway, I think they're just as cute as can be, but in spite of their cuteness, they have not brought me snow.  I will not give up though--I'm not a quitter!  I'm still wishing for snow--no blizzards please--just a beautiful 2 or 3 inches--maybe 4 or 5 or . . .

My news is that I have been invited by the Georgia Art League for a solo exhibit at Peach State Bank & Trust.  Only two artist per year exhibit, and I am very honored to participate.  If you live in our area, please stop by and check it out.  The exhibit went up today and will stay in place through June. 

My Brother Snowman -  Day 9 of 30 in 30

My Brother Snowman

Pastel  8x8

You can tell he's a BIG brother by the size of that head!  A cutie in that red hat.  Well we're 9 days into this wishing thing and nothing has fallen out of the sky yet.  You would think if anyone could, a snowman could bring snow--my goodness.

Thank you ALL for participating in my poll on whether to continue painting snowmen!!!  You answered with a resounding "yes", so here we go!  How many ways can you paint a snowman?  Well, we're about to find out, and I hope it will be at least 30 different ways.  Stay tuned to see whose on next.

Thank you for stopping by today and participating in my wishing "thing"!



Big Daddy -  Day 8  30 in 30 Paintings

Big Daddy

Pastel  8x8

 

Looks like Big Daddy has the same problem I do--he ate too much Christmas cake, cookies and candies and now he's having to pay for it.  It's time to hit the treadmill and eat tofu.  But he's still smiling and has a great attitude. 

 

I have a dilemma and need your help.  Before I started this 30 Day Challenge, my intention was to paint "Fruits and Vegetables" in oils, but then I got snow on my mind and all of a sudden, these little snowmen popped into my head and started begging to be painted.  So I agreed with them to paint a few and then move on to my intended oil paintings of good things to eat.  But--those persistent little snowmen are just dancing around telling me how they want to look, what they want to wear and even the color.  So my question is:  do I change over to my previously intended path, or do I let the snowmen win and bring them out to parade before the world:  I'll wait on your answer!  Better hurry though--we've got 30 days to cover. 

 

Thanks in advance for your help and for visiting today!



Old English Snowman -  Day 7 of 30 in 30

Old English Snowman

Pastel  5x7

 

This hat reminds me of Charles Dickens, thus the title.  Maybe he'll take me to England with him.  I've been there once and it was a marvelous place.  Loved the antiquity of it all.  Fond memories and a great photo album of all the sites.  

 

This morning as I looked out the window I saw snow flying through the air--looked like diamonds dancing in the air.  Only problem--it is a bright sunny day--go figure.  I was so perplexed, I went outside in the frigid air to see if there was a snow cloud hanging just over head, but no--only blue skies.  Guess it was just so cold, it was freezing what little moisture there is in the air and the sun was striking it just right.  Bet this is not unusual up north.  Anyway, I got to experience a special moment watching diamonds swirl through the air!

 

Thank you for continuing to follow along with me!



Snowgirl - Day 6 of 30 Paintings in 30 Days

Snowgirl

Pastel  5x7

 

You know this has to be a girl--everything had to match.  I believe she got a new scarf and hat for Christmas. 

 

Today is Monday which starts the first full week of the new year.  I believe the reason the time flies by so quickly is because we're all having way too much fun, or maybe lots of places to go.  Something sure makes it slide right on by. 

 

Enjoy your Monday!  Enjoy your week!  Thank you for following my progress.  



Ready to Play - Day 5 of 30 in 30

Ready to Play

Pastel  5x7

 

I'm not sure if he/she is ready to play or ready to go to bed.  The hat reminds me of the night caps in story books, but it's a happy little thing and needs a playmate.  Ooh, I think I see snow out the window!  Just kidding--it's that darn vivid imagination again.  I came by it honest--from my dad.  He is the reason I still firmly believe in Santa Claus.  When I was a little girl, he had us all convinced that Santa in his sleigh and 8 tiny reindeer were flying across the sky.  When he threw that door open and pointed to the sky, there they were just as clear as the night!  Because of his vivid imagination, excitement, storytelling and gestures, I can still see them as clearly as I did that night.  I will never forget that image.  He can still weave a good story or make up a poem on the spot.  He and my mom instilled a love of the holiday season in our entire family.  They are special!

 

Let's keep up our work to wish us a snowfall a few more days.  It might just happen--there are predictions.  

Top Hat  -  Day 4 of 30 in 30

Top Hat

Pastel  4x8

 

I think this little fellow is so cute.  Hope you're not getting tired of snowmen, but I haven't seen snow yet and I can't give up just yet.  Really I'm still not over the excitement of these luscious, brightly colored pastels and these snowmen are just loving coming to life (and they won't even melt), so I must carry on. 

 

Tune in tomorrow to see what might come up on your screen.  Remember to share with friends.  Thanks a bunch!



Long Tall Skinny - Day 3 of 30 in 30

Long Tall Skinny

Pastel  4x8

 

This little fellow didn't over eat during the holidays and is in great shape.  Lovin' that blue hat.  Guess what?  Last night the wind was howling and I looked out the window and it was snowing!  Well, it was snow flurries, but still it was snow!  My wish almost came true.  But not a flake this morning.  Okay Mr. Snowman, I'm still wishing for that blanket of the white stuff.

 

We're already on Day 3.  If you want to see lots of talented artist, check out Leslie's website at www.lesliesaeta.com .  She has lots of artist participating in the 30 Day Challenge.  Leslie does lots to promote her fellow artists and is so generous with her time and efforts to help us all. 

 

Hope you are having a great first week of 2014!



All Dressed Up to Work - Day 2 of the 30 Paintings in 30 Days

All Dressed Up to Work

Pastel   5x7

 

He has a broom in his hand but is wearing a top hat.  Guess he likes to dress up no matter what he's doing.  We need to get him a shovel for Christmas. 

 

We didn't have a white Christmas, so I thought maybe if I paint a few snowmen, I might wish it to bring us a snow.  I'll paint a few more and see if my wish comes true--not a blizzard, just a beautiful white blanket of the frosty stuff.  It's so exciting to wake up to a winter wonderland.  Maybe even more exciting is watching it slowly cover everything.  I'll take it either way.  (You can tell I don't live in the north.  Snow is an event here in the sunny south).  Everyone does not share my fondness for the white, fluffy stuff, but I'm still dreaming of a white . . .

 

Thank you for coming along with me on my 30 Day Journey.  Feel free to forward my postings to your family and friends--the more, the merrier!



Happy Happy New Year and a New Year's Snowman

New Year's Snowman

Pastel   5x7

I always have some sadness when the holiday season comes to a close, but we must move on to the possibilities of a new year and all that it might bring.  So I've painted this little snowman to wish you the very best in this brand new year and to announce that I have once again thrown my hat (or brush) into the ring to participate in Leslie Saeta's 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge.  This is my second time around.  Already the 2014 is shaping up to be a busy one, so wish me luck as I launch into this journey. 

As you notice under the title, this painting was done with pastels.  I've described these a bit in the past for my non painter friends and followers.  They are pigment which has just enough binder to press the paint into sticks and is much like chalk.  It glides on smoothly and is a fun and challenging medium to paint with, especially someone who is inexperienced in this medium--that would be me.