Monday, April 28, 2008

My new hobby

Over the Christmas holidays, my wonderful sister-in-law Stephanie and I had a long discussion about being true to ourselves "even though" we're mommies. You know what I mean - having outside interests and stimulating our brain cells more than Elmo or Barney can. (Not that I don't love playing "Go Fish" fifty times a day ...)

We talked about hobbies we have and would like to have, and both of us mentioned that we always wanted to try our hand at oil painting. (I gave her a set for Christmas - have you used it yet, Steph?) I'm currently trying to jazz up our guest room for my mom and sister (they'll be staying seven weeks and I want them to feel SOMEwhat at home ....), and the four blank walls inspired me. Why not DO IT?!

So here's my first oil painting. I'm immensely proud of it, even though hopefully someday I'll get good enough that this will be hopelessly embarrassing.

But now I have a dilemma. What should I paint the background? I don't want to leave it white ... it kind of washes out the flowers. But anything too dark will wash out the leaves. I was thinking a blueish-black. But I'm afraid. Suggestions?

7 comments:

heidizinha said...

becky, its so beautiful! what about a light light yellow to accent the stamen (is that what its called?)?

kristi said...

Seven weeks!!!!!! Wow, that is along time. Are they trying to come a little bit before the baby comes too?

That Girl said...

Oooo ... I like it. Like a lemon yellow maybe? The "traditional" background for an oil painting of flowers is black, and I was trying to just tone it down with the blue idea. But a nice lemony color sounds really good. I think I'm sold. Knew you'd pull through for me, Heides!

My mother told me today that I'm supposed to paint the background first. Oh. Live and learn, I guess. This is what happens when you have no instruction whatsoever!

And yes, they're coming for 7 weeks - actually, a week AFTER the baby is due (Abby couldn't miss Girls Camp!) But hey, she's out of school and it's summer break. And the flight's long enough that they have to make it worth it! Dude, I'll take all the help I can get -for as long as I can get it!

Rocketgirl said...

that is insanely amazing - not only for your first time out but for any time out!! I'd be terrified to screw something that good up with background color... mostly because it would be a miracle to get the flower looking that good in the first place. High Five!!

kristi said...

Hey, I don't blame you I think that it is great that your mom can stay that long. I know that it is not like she can come every few months. When are you coming up again? Is it not until Christmas?

Kim L. said...

K, Seriously... can I buy it? That is so beautiful just the way it is. A mustard/tan color would be cool, too. I am soooooooo impressed. I totally agree with the idea of having something that is "YOU" outside of motherhood...still deliberating what mine might become. I am too tired when the time comes... I just want to sleep my free time away.\"/ Anyways, You are cute as ever, and I am relieved that you have help on the way! You are my hero forever!

Elizabeth said...

It may be too late, but I'd personally go with a muted red, which would make both the leaves and the flowers stand out more. But yeah, good luck around the edges.

How can you have time to paint and do all the other million things you do AND be pregnant??? I can't even do my own dishes!