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The holiday season was a crazy busy time for all of us.  I hope that all of you had a wonderful season filled  with friends and family. We are now in the New Year and I find that so many people are making resolutions. I prefer this year not to make any resolutions but to create a challenge. Let's look at the definition of the two words from the dictionary. According to the dictionary the words mean:

resolution |ˌrezəˈloō sh ən| (noun) a firm decision to do or not to do something

challenge |ˈ ch alənj| (noun) a call to take part in a contest or competition, a task or situation that tests someone's abilities.

I found that the 30 day/30 leaf challenge I did in October of 2011 was a great way to get focused and stay motivated. I had to fulfill an agreement I made with myself and I had to report to all of you out there reading my blog. There were times when I had to plan ahead, skip a day here and there but I managed to get 30 done in 30 days. I like deadlines and I like to be held accountable for my word.

So I am now going to focus and concentrate on creating 52 paintings this year. I am not talking about a painting a day but a serious painting a week. My subject matter will vary and I will do my best to post every week what I have painted and a bit about my techniques, inspiration, research etc.

"Double Upright Datura • Preliminary Graphite Drawing • ©2012 MLighthipe"

Here is my first beginning for 2012. It is a Datura that I have growing in my backyard. We are expecting a frost this week and I want to try to get it painted before it goes dormant. It has the last bit of blooms on it and I need them for the color. I started this piece back in November and want to get it finished for  painting #1 of 52. It is in graphite, in preparation for gouache to add the color.

Happy New Year to you all!