2011: A Year of Firsts

January started with the intention of doing One Little Word with Ali Edwards. My word: Balance.  One simple word…I won’t lie it hasn’t gone as well as I thought it would.  Working full time, being a wife, raising two kids, leaves little time for me or for balance.  When I take the time for me then other things fall out of balance and 2011 has had it’s share of struggles at home and at work.  Needless to say I am a bit behind with One Little Word.  What was to be a reflective project to help with my bring my life into balance has fallen a bit by the wayside.  I will get back to it…I promise.  It just may take me a bit longer.  Let’s face it, stress isn’t conducive to balance.

But there is an upside for the artistic side of me in 2011.  I have found the inspiration, with the help of some terrific online artists and crafters, to spread my wings a bit.  Every month this year has held some artistic, crafty firsts for me.

January – Art Journaling/Mixed Media – Inspired by Dina Wakley (http://dinastamps.typepad.com, Julie Balzer (http://balzerdesigns.typepad.com/#axzz1H5HXErgU) and Paula, the Journal Artista (http://www.journalartistaart.com).  I also found some great inspiration from Inkwell (http://inkiwell.blogspot.com) and the wonderful artists at http://artjournaling.ning.com.

Grow Happy - Notice the mistake?

Trying my hand at zendoodle. Couldn't resist adding color.

Love is...

 

February – Brought my first attempt at a ATC card and ATC swap.  I simply decided to approach it like a small card and I was happy with the results.  Thanks Lily for sharing our swap on YouTube!  🙂

Valentine ATC Swap

 

March – Another month, another new artistic experience.  This project is inspired by mixed media artists and the desire to play.  This altered CD is for a swap being hosted by Arte Dar (http://artedar.blogspot.com/2011/03/altered-cd-s-material-list-for-ustream.html).

Le Cirque - Altered CD

 

I can’t wait to see what inspiration the rest of the year will bring!