It's been a ltitle while since I last took a Skillshare class, and returning to this one felt like coming back to a familiar and much-loved place. Jane, you were one of the first teachers who caught my attention early in my watercolor journey and inspiring me, and I am deeply grateful for all that you give to your students.

Over the past several months, I've been spending more time following my own creative path-learning how to balance guidance with intuition, and structure with personal voice. That exploration, along with some health-related pauses this year, has changed how I approach my work and how I show up creatively.

For this class, I chose to gently veer in my own direction while still hooring the techniques and spirit being taught. Having a subject to follow helps me grow, but allowing myselft to interpret it in a way that feels true is an important part of my process now.

I'm deeply grateful for this community-the teachers, fellow students, and friendships built here over the years have shaped me more than I can say. Even when I'm quieter, the influence and support remain with me.

My Skillshare membership expires in February, and while I don't yet know what that next cchapter will look like, the idea of stepping away is not an easy one. Part of me is considering renewing simply to stay connected with the wonderful friends and artists I've met here.

Thank you for being such a meaningful part of my artistic journey.

UPDATE - 

I wanted to add a small note after sharing this. Yesterday was my birthday, and when my husband saw how emotional it’s been for me to consider stepping away from Skillshare and the friendships here, he surprised me by telling me to renew in February as my birthday gift.

It reminded me just how meaningful this community has been to me — not only creatively, but personally — and how much I value staying connected with all of you. YEAH! ❤️

For this painting I used, Schmincke Tundra Orange, Daniel Smith Gray Titanium, Potter's Pink, Rich Green Gold, Pyrrol Red, Hansa Yellow Med, Piemonite, Bloodstone & Sodalite all Genuine's.