Altenew Year In Review Challenge

My card today is for the Altenew Year In Review Challenge.  The challenge is to use one of the Inspiration Challenge pix from 2018, shown here:

I chose the one on the upper left, January.  And, here is my card:

I stamped the main image from the Altenew Dearest Friends set onto Arteza watercolor paper.  I used masking paper to mask the image, then added some additional pieces of the image here and there to create my composition.   I used Daniel Smith watercolors to paint the image.  I added some leaves from Altenew's Remember This set, stamping them with distress inks. 

I was inspired by a video by Norine Borys, which I had watched a few days ago.  I wanted to try her technique of 'loose water coloring.'  Here is a link to Norine's YouTube video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=549vkaWP-VU  It is a look I've always admired, but have not tried.  So, today I took the plunge.   I had fun with it, and think I will try it again.  It's difficult for me to not fill in every part of an image, so I need practice in letting the water 'do it's thing,' and just be loose with my application, leaving white space. 

I used a verse from the Altenew Beautiful Day set, and stamped it with VersaFine Clair Nocturne ink.  
To finish my card, I attached the watercolor panel to an A2 card.  
I sponged distress ink along the edges, and added some splatters of the colors I had used on the flowers.

This Dearest Friend stamp set was a gift from my very dear friend, Karen.  So I thought it only fitting that I make her thank you card from these stamps!  I am not adding that to this post, as I don't want her to see it until she gets it from me.  It's very similar to this one, but the verse is a thank you and friend verse.

I am adding my card to these additional challenges:
Crafty Creations - Anything goes
Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Anything goes
Watercooler Wednesday - Anything goes

Thanks so much for stopping by.  I appreciate your visits and comments.  May the new year bring you joy, peace, and blessings abundant!

Blessings,