Dandelion

Dandelion, if you look its meaning up in the language of flowers, you will find faithfulness and happiness listed.  For me, happiness rings true.  But more than that, the flower symbolizes a promising and lucky future because its seeds always fly far far way, and eventually settle down somewhere new.  Then, the cycle repeats itself again and again.  At least that is what my feelings are towards this flower--one that is often consider an unwanted weed in gardens, and don't get me wrong, I too have plucked them out of my mom's yard. 

That aside, I painted this with the thoughts of good luck, a bright future, and happiness in my mind.  I hope to share this feeling and well wishes with the ones who see this painting.

Autumn Leaves & The Rain

I don't usually like the rain, but on this day it was a little different...really don't want to say good bye to my favourite season, autumn...

Ajisai - Hydrangeas

Ajisai, or hydrangeas are in season and are blooming all over Tokyo.  I never really liked them back when I was in Canada, perhaps it is because of the numerous small black bugs that attracted by the flowers' nectar, or their dark colours.

It is quite the different story here in Japan.  You see, these flowers are a sign of early summer here in Japan.  I was rather happy when I came across this delicate, pastel coloured hydrangea the other day while on my way home.

Mother's Day - Tsubaki vs. Carnations

It's Mother's Day and I, trying to be a good girl am wishing from Japan, my mother a wonderful day.  She deserves more than just one day of course, but hey, aren't we all a victim of commercialization of celebrations?

I decided to paint a tsubaki, Japanese camellia, not only because it is one of her favourite flowers, but also of mine and someone who I have great respect of.  I know that carnations are "the" symbol of Mother's Day, but I really don't remember when I last gave carnations on this day.  I almost avoid it, if possible.

Tsubaki are beautiful, and we used to have a pink camellia tree outside our first home in Canada.  The flower brings back such wonderful memories, though my personal favourite is of the white varieties.

Well, Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers around the world! Yes, we children, just love to drive you crazy, so be the Queen for the day that is purely dedicated to you!  And thank you for all the years you have put up with us!!

Spring, Sakura and Cherry Blossoms

Spring, my favourite season, well other than autumn.  And my favourite symbol of this beautiful season is the sakura, cherry blossoms.  So much so, that when I painted a different cover for My Little Book of Happiness, I decided to use the flower.  How can you not fall in love with these tiny little blooms, kissed with a touch of pink?

It was windy and pouring in Tokyo today, but I still managed to take a quick shot of these beauties.  Noticed the few drops of rain on the fresh petals?

What is also lovely is just right after they are in full bloom, the breeze will pass by, and it will be snowing cherry blossoms.  That was the inspiration for the cover.  Taking a relaxing stroll under the sakura trees, daydreaming, and feeling blessed.  Ah, I just wished the season can last longer......

Happy 2014!

Decided to go with a four leaf clover to post on Jan 4 to celebrate 2014.  Clovers are a symbol of Good Luck, so I wish everyone a healthy, lucky, and creative New Year!

A New Flatmate: Yamori-kun

I found a new flatmate a couple of weeks ago.  It's a cute little yamori or gecko. Drew this after spotting him.  He is a quiet an adorable fella, and thanks to him, there are less tiny flies around.  However, he has been hiding somewhere since, maybe adventuring out in the great big world?!  Whatever the case, he is always welcome back to our home.

Interesting note, the kanji for yamori is "家守", which means "to protect a home" or "protector of the home"!

Ladybugs: Before and After Watercolour

The first thing I ever painted as a child at my community art center class was a pair of ladybugs strolling under some flowers.  Now years later, am still thinking of the same little creatures.

Am sharing both the B&W (roughly scanned) and completed images of my work.  I use carbon ink for all the outlines of my illustrations, and then watercolour for the colours.  Painting with watercolour is almost like second nature for me.  I have used various mediums before, but I find still it the easiest one for me to express myself.

These ladybugs are now taking off on their own little adventures!