Tag Archives: Leslie Saeta’s January 30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge

Sun-Shiny Day – Day Three 30 in 30

Sun-Shiny Day. 5 x 4, watercolor, pen, gouache, 140 lb. cold pressed paper. © 2014 Sheila Delgado

Song lyrics often invade my brain. A geeky little trait I share with my good friend Naomi. Today it is this classic by Johnny Nash. I could listen to it all day. How can you not be happy when this is playing? The song has been covered over forty times, and it is a pretty good bet that is why. His was released in 1972. I was five, and I have clear memories of my Mom and her sisters playing this album again, and again. There was a lot of dancing going on!

Jimmy’s version will get you dancing too. Admit it, you are singing along!

The Holly Cole Trio released their version in 1993. About the same time my marriage was ending. No wonder I find this so powerful. In the beginning she is not quite convinced. She wants it to be true, but heartache and doubt linger. Her strength builds slowly. In the end, she can only be true to herself. Her power cannot be denied. Her light is bright, and will not be dimmed.

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way
Gone are the dark clouds that had me blind
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.

I think I can make it now, the pain is gone
All of the bad feelings have disappeared
Here is the rainbow I’ve been praying for
It’s gonna be a bright (bright), bright (bright)
Sun-Shiny day.

Wishing you a very Sun-Shiny Day!

Arty happiness is in Leslie’s challenge!

Sunny Delight – Day Two 30 in 30

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Sunny Delight. watercolor, gouache, pen. 4 x 5, 140 lb. cold press paper. © 2014 Sheila Delgado

This was a delight to paint. I am trying to capture the look of a sunflower I did early last month. In that I think the head is much too dark, but the petals are very nice. Just another reminder of one of the great things about painting. You can always try again!

I watched a video about being grateful each day. I think it is a great lesson for all of us. I know that in my earlier life, being grateful was not something I thought about daily. I was too busy with work, life, stuff.

But ever since my diagnosis in 2007 (Lupus), I am very aware of all the gifts I have to be thankful for. Right now, this moment, I am thankful for the view out my window. Fig tree, Bougainvillea along the fence, mountains beyond. It is not a view I get to see everyday. Dog sitting has its perks. While I am here, I am taking notice.

Remind yourself of one thing you are grateful for today. Or all the things.

While you are making breakfast.

Sitting in traffic.

Falling asleep.

You can sneak it in.

O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. ~ Psalms 107:1

Leslie Saeta January 30 Paintings in 30 days Challenge

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Happy 2014 Everyone!

I did it. I am doing it. I took Leslie’s challenge again.

I thought I had read somewhere, that it takes six weeks to develop a new habit. But I just did a quick search, and it seems it may only take between 21 and 30 days. So I am good to go on the painting everyday habit, after completing Sea Dean’s December Painting Party.

I have managed to start a few paintings early. Whew!

At last check, there were 365 artists signed on to take Leslie’s challenge. Wow! What a great way to start a creative new year! I am so excited to see all the great art that is going to be born this month!