Painting the New Year, Zentangles and a Starting Point

New Year's Eve was so special for a number of reasons. Firstly we were in Cornwall near the sea with good friends and the children. Secondly there was a fabulous full moon (a Blue Moon) over the sea and thirdly the children lit paper lanterns and sent them sailing to the heavens with their secret wishes.
The frost still lay upon the ground and the moon lit the grassy mounds. It was rare and beautiful.




Today I played with paper, colour and monotone. I have been interested to read in "Cloth Paper Scissors" about the art of "Zentangle".
It's very therapeutic, works nicely in a journal and allows freedom and play. Here is my first. There is no need for words at all, there are no rules but the guidelines can be found at http://www.zentangle.com/  the size of pattern is generally 3.5" square - small enough for one a day.

Here I have been preparing a background for some creative stitching ... more to come. I'm glad I've started because the ideas keep me awake at night until I begin!

I love the way the frost has played on these parchment like hydrangea flowers today. The grass is so hard under foot it is like walking on eggshells! The night is clear again and we are expected to wake to -7 degrees tomorrow.