For those who know me well, when I get overwhelmed, I end up doing nothing because I can’t decide what to do next.  So when two of the artists I follow and admire very much sent me an award, this is what the thoughts inside my head looked like:

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So now that I’ve gotten my bearings back, I can function and proceed to thanking Clare Shotter and and Kelly of Illustrations 365 for thinking of me for the Kreativ Blogger Award.  Their style, cheerful subjects, creative lifestyle, and that right amount of whim totally move me.  Their blogs are a constant and touching reminder of why I should commit to my craft.

One of the best things I enjoy about art is watching people at work.  I know a lot of creative people who don’t like being bothered while working (that would be me). To see images of their illustrations in progress is a gift, a real treat for me because you get to see the colors and magic unfold everyday.

And to be on the receiving end of their thoughtfulness and validation — I say a deep and sincere THANK YOU This is truly very encouraging, considering I started blogging in hopes of breaking my 5 year-long artist’s block

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In the spirit of camaraderie and fun:

1. Thank the blogger who gave you the award and provide a link.
2. List 7 things about yourself that your readers might find interesting
3. Nominate 7 other bloggers, provide links, and let them know.

From my window, I can already see a different country Really.

My dog Jones is currently doing a great job recovering from his surgery.

I’ve traveled over the years but managed to avoid snow  — until recently.

My Kitchen-aid is a yummy shade of orange.

I have a gifted nose — one that has strong olfactory powers.

The smell of cooking garlic and baking bread are two of the best scents in the world.

Considering I’m such a lazy, fussy traveler, I have always loved Tintin Comics ever since I was small.

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Hear are some creative foodies who can make magic in their own kitchens and post recipes tried and tested in their own homes: Creative Noshing and What To Cook.  There is also The Old Kitchen Range, a  new blog but with a theme close to my heart: the blogger uses yellowed recipe cards that have been in their family for generations now.

For groovy sketches, paintings of daily life, and what they call “doodles” but what I consider true works of art, check out Rough Sketch,  Sassy Hand Turkey and Martin’s Doodles.

Then there is a wonderful puppeteer and poet from Brighton, Ann Perrin, with her charming characters and classic marionettes she and her family have brought to life over decades.  I get a nostalgic feeling watching the puppets in her videos — reminds me of my wooden toys back when being a child was real simple.

These sites  will surely add character to your day and make for a very entertaining read (even when you’re supposed to be working at your desk)