As I began painting, I realized that I was following the fatal trap I previously walked into. While painting, I had stopped using tasteful brushstrokes, and simply started to color in the lines - again! Whew! What gets into me? Here I must say that it was only by God's grace that I remembered Beatrix Potter. So I grabbed a few of her books and looked with all my eyeballs' strength!

The painting process was even longer than I thought it would be. For a while I really struggled with the woodwork, trying to keep it light and fresh, as opposed to the dark wood I tried earlier. When it came to his clothing, I stalled, not knowing which way to turn  - more warm colors? cool colors? stripes? a collar? etc. For some reason I ended up using a nice blue shirt, and weirdish-green pants, which ended up not looking too bad. The books on the shelves helped with that. :)

I was so sure I'd mess up and feel I had wasted all my time. So I worked on it for days, feeling this was taking me longer than any other I had done before. This particular painting taught me a lot about myself, as well as watercolor. I know when people say things like that it sounds cheesy, but it's true. Patience, consistency, perseverance....

But as I worked over the last portions, looking over the half-finished details, and touched up a few places with a light outlining, I took a reluctant breath and then let it out. I was done!

And with that, I signed my name.

I am now officially selling 8"x10" prints of "The Library". If you would like a copy, visit my Etsy shop. Each one costs only $15.00 plus shipping. They are easy to frame and make great Christmas gifts!