My Resolutions for 2015

I don't know what it is about this new year but I feel that great things are going to happen. Yes, anything is possible if you put your mind to it. I illustrated a few things that I'd like to continue doing... 

1. Drink more water. It's as simple and healthy as that. 

2. Meet new people. There's so much I learn from new friends, whether it's through my blog or sitting next to someone at a coffee shop.   

3. Share ideas. I love collaborating with brilliant, creative minds and seeing what fun projects we create together. I'm excited to see what partnerships are ahead. 

4. Go outside often. I have to remind myself to step away from my desk to get a little fresh air and sunshine. It's amazing how great it feels to get out and about. The outdoors is also a great place to find creative inspiration.

5. Keep on sketching. Exactly. I need to do this more often. A simple doodle usually gets my mind flowing with new ideas that I can't wait to start on. I just have to remember this the next time I'm too busy or too lazy to pick up my sketchbook.

This is all on top of wanting to travel to new places, blog more often, try new foods and the typical resolution, exercise a bit more.

I've pinned these sketches next to my computer as a daily reminder. I'm hoping that by keeping my goals in sight (literally), I'm set to accomplish them.

DIY: Handmade Tags

Here's a fun way to spread some valentine love...handmade tags for that special someone. Use them as gift tags, book markers or wear the string as a simple, braided bracelet.  :)

Reminiscing

I've been thinking a lot of my visits to Asturias, Spain, which were years ago and long overdue. It's just so beautiful there! If you ever have a chance, you must see the green hills, cobblestone streets and try their amazing food. A few that I can't live without...fabada, tortilla española, pote asturiano, chipirones, pulpo, jamón and aceitunas con anchoas. I've been quite inspired by my summer memories of a luscious green Asturias that I picked up a pen and went to work. :) Although, I must say, I do also love bundling up for their rainy days and winter snow. :)

Turkey & Company

Aside from Thanksgiving's main attraction, the turkey & stuffing, I have always loved the side dishes.

Well, to be honest, maybe my favorite is the pumpkin pie. :)

Travel Bug

Lately, I've been daydreaming about the calm beaches of Ibiza and the sidra in beautiful Asturias.

Life Exploration: Fig. 7 & Fig. 8

Freckles & Sand

That Summer Glow

Feeling inspired by our summer sunsets. 

Life Exploration: Fig. 5 & Fig. 6

Gloomy Days & Greener Grass

Life Exploration: Fig. 3 & Fig. 4

Sea Foam & Diamonds

Happy Hearts

With my recent paper balloon tutorial in mind, I was inspired to create some colorful digital origami hearts.

Happy Holidays!

A Perfect Fit for Your Cards

Handmade card holders... they're great for a small clutch or pocket and are pretty fun to hold onto. 

I hand painted each one, apart from the first which is made of fabric, and handstitched them with 

protective vinyl. New designs are in the works so keep checking in. And let me know if you're looking 

for a custom card holder. :)

A Little Goodness

I always find it wonderful how a little goodness can stretch a long way. It's contagious! Like when 
driving...you let someone merge into your lane and later you see them extend that same kindness 
as they allow someone, who has been struggling to change lanes, to merge ahead of them. And 
you never know...you may change someone's day (or life) with your smile and by genuinely caring 
how their day is going. :)

Life Exploration: Fig. 1 & Fig. 2

Baby Time!

It's always exciting when there's a baby on the way! I was so happy to put some things together for my 
friends' baby shower earlier in the year. I designed a few silhouettes of animals to create an invitation, 
placemats and a homemade elephant stamp for advice cards and goody bags. And with the cute baby 
photos of mom and dad, I created a mini-collage. Congrats! :)

Giraffes!

There's something about giraffes that I just love. Not sure what it is about them but I've loved them
since childhood. I created a fun stationery set that makes note giving and receiving a little more fun...
and they're great fridge art too!