"Fall Leaf"

I live in a relatively new community, and the one downside is teensy little trees. I'm not sure what kind of leaf this is, but it must have blown onto my porch from some neighbor's teensy tree, as we only have Pin Oaks and a Bradford Pear. It was all by itself, and so perfect - I thought it must be a sign. Or maybe an ambitious leaf looking for fame?

"Dappled Silhouette" --- SOLD

First of all I'd like to announce a new website: http://www.dailypaintworks.com/. It's a collection of daily painters, with whom I'm proud to be associated. The website is updated with the latest paintings posted by each of the 12 artists. The site also features artist videos, upcoming workshops, and a daily email signup.

The title for today's painting was a consensus between my 2 stepdaughters, 12 & 16. The fact that they could agree on anything is a new one for me - must be because they haven't seen each other in a few weeks. One's been here while the other one's been with their mother. I guess absence makes the heart grow fonder even when it comes to siblings!

For those interested, the new brush I am trying (I painted this one with just it) is a Silver Bristlon Bright 6. The flats for this brand were a bit long, so I went with a bright because it's about the same length as a flat Monarch, which is what I usually use. I like it. I haven't decided if I like it better than the Monarch's yet - I don't think I do ... but it is cheaper.

"Strappy Shoes" --- SOLD

These are the fanciest shoes I have. I've had them for about 2 years, and I've worn them exactly 2 times. Since I knew the whites and blacks in this were going to be rather cool, I picked a warm brown as a ground. I used my new brush on this too, and I swear tomorrow I'll tell you the brand ... I'm too tired to climb the stairs again tonight to look. But I'm feeling better, and I hope to paint again tomorrow. This one was an extra I did right before I got sick.

"Carnation Cup" --- SOLD

I am finding that my wonderful new Windsor & Newton, Monarch brushes are wearing out. They're getting a bit frazzled on the ends, even though I clamp them in cardboard every night. So, I figured since it had been quite a few months, I would go out and buy some new brushes. And it's like magic all over again! This one seemed to paint itself - such a wonderful experience. Thanks to all of you who have offered such kind comments about my daycare and sick experiences!