Cloudy Window and Admin Thoughts

Hi everyone,

How are you all? Please accept my apology as my challenge entry is running late. It's just that time of year and everything has demanded attention all at the same time. I know it's the same for all of us, so I just wanted to let you know why I've been a bit quiet this last month...or actually since the last challenge. (oh dear).

This is a really great group and the idea is an excellent one, losing any more members would really be such a shame so I am not leaving, but I am running behind at the moment.

I did want to take a moment to thank Marion for taking over admin whilst she did. Blogging looks really easy but it eats up a lot of time, is pretty thankless and the constant attention needed just to make things run smoothly is slavish. Obviously you can tell how much I love blogging! Actually I really do love blogging but I have so many troubles from my lack of computing skills that I really admire and appreciate anyone who can jump in and do it. It doesn't go unnoticed. So, thanks Marion.

As for us: well, I think the most pressing thing is getting the links right as some are still missing as well as getting the gallery up, including any sale options. Is anyone doing this?

It would also be really nice to have a group button so we can spread the word on our own blogs - again, I suppose we would have to decide on a symbol/design? And does anyone have any thoughts about a 'link within' bit beneath each posting? I think it would be a good idea as it throws up random posts that might be of interest to readers.

I know this may sound like a bit of a wish list, but there is such great stuff going on here that it would be great to get it some more exposure.

I can imagine that there might be some hesitancy from a capable (read: computer savvy) member due to concerns about doing things to the blog that other members might not like. I just want to say that I really don't mind about stylistic elements and if anyone Admins, I am happy for them to make executive descisions. I say this because it's something I feel!

Anyhow, I have gone on a bit here. Hopefully I can get back on track with my Challenge soon!

Challenge 1 Entry: Light and Shade

"Shadow & Sunshine"

I was taken by the idea of shadows being a degree of absence, not an absence. This piece is inspired by a photo I took of a church well on a bright snowing day. The well was very dark, however because of its material, it actually radiated light. I have always felt it to be a very simple but beautiful image. This challenge was the perfect opportunity to bring it to life with the shadow and light focus.

It's size is A3, which is working for me at the moment as I do feel that I need the limitation.

I thought a lot about feathering areas with the shading of feathers creating another dimension.

But after some thinking, that felt too fussy for the image, which I feel wants to stand alone.

The quilting had to be straight lines. Simple but effective.