Monday, February 23, 2009

lucky you.

lucky 5 of you, actually.

i have been having the best day! mostly because of all the sweet e-mails and comments i’ve received thanks to liz and this wonderful post. [i’m in the process of responding to everyone – i promise i haven’t forgotten about you]

so in honor of my awesome day, i decided that the time has come for my very first giveaway!
DSC_5960
[a mess crafted by me]


but first – some restrictions and limitations may apply:

1.  5 lucky winners will receive something handmade by me, especially for them. which means each prize will be different and completely awesome.
2.  prizes have a 99% satisfaction guarantee. so in the event that you win and don’t like your prize [which hopefully won’t happen], i’ll be incredibly sorry, but there are no refunds or exchanges.
3.  winners may have to be patient. i have a couple of really good ideas, and i know for a fact that some of them will take longer than others. but i promise that your prize will come, and it will come in 2009.
4.  to enter, simply leave a comment below telling me what creative thing you wish you could do most. [i personally would love to learn how to sew and play the guitar or the piano, but you only have to tell me one]. feel free to comment even if you don’t know me and/or you don't have a blog of your own and/or if you live in a foreign country – i promise i’m nice.
5.  last but not least, these 5 lucky winners will be chosen completely at random next monday [march 2 at 11:00pm pacific standard time] after i finish watching the much-anticipated finale of the bachelor [dear jason, pick melissa… i guess].

sound good?


hope you’re having a happy day too! 
comment away!



xoxo.
jana

p.s. thanks for the idea chelsi!

151 left some love.:

Lyn Kearns February 23, 2009 at 5:29 PM  

I just found your blog from the amazing painting you did for just us blog. That was fabulous! So this was the first time I even went to your blog and here you are giving something away. Lucky me for the chance to win. I wish I could write a fiction novel that was good enough to be on a bestseller's list. That's my creative want.

Chrissy February 23, 2009 at 5:36 PM  

Hey Jana! Thought I'd try my luck... seeing as you're incredibly talented and if I won it would be well worth the effort!

My creative idea is... duhn duh duh duhn!: sew my won wedding dress! (oh how I wish I were good enough to, it has been my dream for as long as I could remember)

Bridgette February 23, 2009 at 5:37 PM  

I wish that I had the patience to learn to sew really well! I would make beautiful quilts that my family would love to keep forever and pass on to their children.:) Oh yeah, and play the guitar. Good answer.

I love the painting you did on Elizabeth Kartchner's blog BTW.;)

The Cox Family February 23, 2009 at 5:39 PM  

Hi Jana. I found you via Elizabeth Kartchner's blog, intend to contact you for a quote on a pic of my 2 boys. I couldn't resist entering your giveaway. My creative wish is to be able to quilt well -- I started one once -- it wasn't very good, it still remains in pieces....

Jen Cox in Rogersville, MO

Megan February 23, 2009 at 5:40 PM  

I would love something from you. I found your blog through the painting you did for Liz.
I wish I had mad photography skills. There is so much to learn and that is something I would love to be better at!

Amy Miller February 23, 2009 at 5:43 PM  

your paintings are AMAZING! and I have been looking for this kind of work for the last year of my two kiddies.
As for my wish talent... I wish I could cook and love doing it. I can keep us alive each day with some nutrition (do chicken nuggets count, j/k), but I want to be one of those people who love to just throw things together and they taste divine! thanks for this contest and a new blog to chekc out!

Unknown February 23, 2009 at 5:47 PM  

I also found your blog from Elizabeth Kartcher's. Amazing work! My creative wish is that I could work in a museum restoring and researching paintings and artwork. I would love to be surrounded by all that goodness all day!

Britt February 23, 2009 at 5:51 PM  

I also found your blog through Elizabeth! It awesome to see someone who is a student still makes time to be creative! I struggle with that :)

But, if I could do anything creative, I really REALLY want to learn to sew! I have a machine but don't know how to use it! LOL. I dream of making purses, blankets, and baby clothes... ah... well, I can dream anyways...

Can't wait to see more of your blog :)

BTW, I am a Bachelor fan too... I am anxious to see who Jason picks! I was a Jillian fan as well!

Karen February 23, 2009 at 5:56 PM  

Hi Jana! I found you from Elizabeths' blog too! Wow It's so great to be able to soak up ideas from such talented women! I enjoy sewing, scrapping, cross-stitch and painting, but I WISH I could play piano! Not just play...but REALLY PLAY :) I'd stay home all day playing "Clocks" by Coldplay and never leave my house again. That's probably why I don't play the piano.... Thanks for the chance to win something wonderful from you! You rock!

Unknown February 23, 2009 at 5:57 PM  

I would love something creative from you - you have so much passion and energy for it! Something creative I'd love to be able to do? I would LOVE to be able to dance well, and to be creative on the dance floor. I just don't feel super coordinated, and so never really try, but I would love that ability.

Johnson February 23, 2009 at 6:02 PM  

Love your stuff!! I would love to learn how to knit!!
Hannah

Cheri February 23, 2009 at 6:06 PM  

Wait, so I don't have to promise to do this for 5 others?? :)

I would love to be artsy with photos.

Amy C February 23, 2009 at 6:08 PM  

Hey, I found you from Just Us! Cute blog! I would love to learn how to take better photographs! I love looking at pictures, but I just don't have the eye for taken them!

angie worthington February 23, 2009 at 6:15 PM  

i just found your blog today, thru liz k!...the painting of Q & A is just awesome!!!...

i wish i had more time for playing with paper...and, i wish i could sew better and learn to crochet or knit...

;) awesome giveaway, i am sure!...

Chelsi February 23, 2009 at 6:16 PM  

Oooo I want to play! I would love to learn how to play the piano. I took classes in 5th grade but quit cus I didn't want to practice...silly me! I'm crossing my fingers!

The Rees' February 23, 2009 at 6:17 PM  

J! I am SO glad you are having a FANTASTIC day! I wish I could PAINT and take AMAZING PHOTOS. One thing at a time though.. right? :) [I did go pick out the camera I wanted tonight.. only to find out it wasn't in stock]

Hope your week continues to be full of wonderfulness!
OX
Mish

Anonymous February 23, 2009 at 6:20 PM  

I wish I could play the piano. When we moved into our home 7 years ago, the previous owners left a completely functioning upright piano. Sadly, no one in our family can play it. So it just stands there, alone, empty, quiet.

Whitney February 23, 2009 at 6:43 PM  

Hi Jana! Found you through Liz, that painting was fab! My own creative wish would be that I could paint/draw. I'm absolute rubbish with anything related to those two arts! I would blame it on being left handed, but then I remember Da Vinci was left handed. Or as I also like to tell myself, when they were handing out the Artistic gene in the pre-existence, I was somewhere flirting with an angel. **Sigh**

Brandy February 23, 2009 at 6:46 PM  

I just found you from Elizabeth Kartchner's blog - I LOVE that painting you did of her sweet little girls! That's amazing!

I would love to be able just to whip up anything my heart desired on a sewing machine. And my other (it's a tie between the two) is to be able to take more amazing photos.
~Brandy F.

Becca February 23, 2009 at 6:48 PM  

Your painting for Liz was fantastic! I to wish I could sew and paint. My sister paints these funky things for her house and well....my walls are bare.
Pick Me
Pick ME!

Liz February 23, 2009 at 7:08 PM  

I would love to learn how to paint so that I can fill my house with one-of-a-kind pieces of me.
Liz

Erica February 23, 2009 at 7:10 PM  

I would love to receive a painting by you. I hope I win!

Cass & Co February 23, 2009 at 7:19 PM  

Hi Jana,
I have come over to visit from Liz's post!! Just love that painting!!
I wish I could write!! Creatively I mean, of course I can "write"!! I have a near one year old and still haven't been able to write his amazing birth story, cos I feel I couldn't do the experience justice!!
Have a great day!!

Cass H
Western Australia

Anonymous February 23, 2009 at 7:21 PM  

I found your blog from the super cute painting you did for Liz her "just us" blog! Such talent! Okay..so I wish that I could play the piano {for fun & professionally}, or any musical instrument for that matter & sewing has always been something I've desired. Quilts, shaws, cute vintage dish towels..
ewhhh..I HOPE I win!!
smiles
Rene'

Carrie February 23, 2009 at 7:25 PM  
This comment has been removed by the author.
Hannie C February 23, 2009 at 7:27 PM  

Me? I would love to learn how to sew, by that I means I wanted to have my end product that I can wear :D

Carrie February 23, 2009 at 7:28 PM  

If I had to choose just one thing that I would love to learn. It would have to be learning to crochet/knit. I have heard that it is a great stress reliever and fun to do as well.

Love the picture that you did for Liz of Q & A!

Jennifer Stanley February 23, 2009 at 7:38 PM  

I sent you an email today, but wanted to post here to enter the contest. Hopefully you got my email inquiring about pricing. I loved the photo you did of Q&A for Liz. I wish I could sew better with my sewing machine. I can do great if there are lots of straight lines, but give me a curve, and it's a mess. I'd also like to learn more about photography, specifically editing, tricks, brushes, frames, etc. Thanks for entering me into the contest. Jennifer S.

tilda February 23, 2009 at 7:39 PM  

i would love to be able to play the piano or violin. i love all your creative ideas. can't wait to see more of them.

Olivia February 23, 2009 at 7:53 PM  

Thanks to Lizzy I found your blog. Your paintings are awesome. I so wish I could paint half as well as you do. I love to paint, but I'm never happy with the results. I have considered taking classes, but I haven't had time yet. I also want to take a cake decorating class, a photography class, and a floral arrangement class. These are all things I enjoy doing, but lack the best of skills at.
Thanks for the chance to win!

Ann Lively February 23, 2009 at 7:54 PM  

My wish is to blow glass. Not just to blow glass, but to blow Murano Island glass with the sweat dripping and the soul pouring! That kind of glass blowing.

Unknown February 23, 2009 at 7:55 PM  

I just saw the gorgeous piece you made for Liz on her blog. I would love to purchase a few paintings in the near future. I love your style.

The one creative thing I wish I could do is sew. My husband and I are both active duty AF and I really tire of having to take our uniforms to the alteration shop on base everytime we move or one of us makes rank! LOL. Plus it would be nice to use the technique on my scrapbook pages every now and then. ;) Enjoy the rest of your week!

Unknown February 23, 2009 at 8:03 PM  

I would love to know how to sew. I love scrapbooking and collecting paper - I'm sure collecting (and using!) fabric would be equally satisfying.

Loren February 23, 2009 at 8:06 PM  

I TOO am having a most awesome day! And then to find your magnificent work on Liz's blog was the chocolate syrup on top of my sundae! (i don't like cherries) Congrats on the publicity!

If I could do anything in the creative realm of life, it would be...sing as well out loud as it sounds in my head :)

ROOT226 February 23, 2009 at 8:12 PM  

WOW-EEE, you're talented!!! I found your link on "Just us" blog and am excited she posted your blog link. If i could do anything creative, i would LOVE to design/sew infant clothing. OH and I would LOVE to design/weld metal art too. I have so much i wish i could do, wish i had the time. :-/

Bouf2 February 23, 2009 at 8:24 PM  

I wish I had more time for Tap Dancing... and Scrapbooking, Sewing and Photography.

Bonnie Young February 23, 2009 at 8:29 PM  

Hi,
I found your blog from Elizabeth Kartchners and LOVED your painting! You are seriously one talented lady, and if I could ever have a talent it would be art. I love it, but can't make what's in my mind look good on paper. So I hold you in the highest degree of FABULOUS! I would so love to recieve one of your projects and would display it in my house proudly, and recommend you to everyone I know!

Lauren Ashly February 23, 2009 at 8:42 PM  

l love your work! I agree about the bachelor selections... he let the best go last week. Anyways- I would love to restore treasured items that seem to be on the last thread... and make them new again. I just love to go to antique stores and re-inventing items! Shabby Chic if you will.

Sherrie February 23, 2009 at 8:43 PM  

Hello I also found you through Elizabeth's blog!!(hope you don't mind..) I would love to receive something from you!! You are very talented!!! I have always wanted to be a painter (water colors)I have an aunt that is fabulous I wish I knew her better so she could have taught me...and I REALLY want to learn how to play the guitar and be as cool as Dave Mathews!!! ;)
Sherrie

Dacia February 23, 2009 at 8:43 PM  

I found your blog through Liz. What a beautiful painting!

I wish I knew how to draw, but alas, I cannot. Also, I wish that I had time to learn how to play the violin!

SBR February 23, 2009 at 8:59 PM  

I also found your blog through Liz's. I would love to know how to paint! I actually always thought I was not an artist because I didn't know how to paint. And then I took photography and got into scrapbooking and realized I am too an artist. But painting... That would be nice.
Thanks, Sarah

Melissa February 23, 2009 at 9:04 PM  

I love your work because it inspires me to be creative. And that...is the secret creative talent I wish that I had. Deep down I have so much creativity flowing through me, but I lack the right amount of time to actually let it come to life.

But, the reasons that take up my time: being a wife and a stay at home mom fill me with great joy, so I wouldn't trade them:)

I love to see art that truly inspires and I hope someday to create something that spurs others to creativity.

Karen February 23, 2009 at 9:05 PM  

Hi I found you also because of "Just Us", love the painting you did for Liz.
I wish I could sing and dance. I can watch people dancing for hours. I love to sing but have a terrible voice. The only reason I get to sing in the church choir is because I have a loud voice and the good singers have to sing louder to cover me up.
I hope I win

Anonymous February 23, 2009 at 9:07 PM  

Wow, I would love an opportunity to win!

I always wish I could write a column for the local paper. Inspire people to get more creative in their everyday life.
Unfortunately my profession is in healthcare.
Lost out on my 'dream' job and secret dream creativity!

Donna February 23, 2009 at 9:08 PM  

I always wish I gave up piano lessons because I really wish I could play the piano now. Who knows? Maybe one day I'll take lessons again!

Heather M. February 23, 2009 at 9:12 PM  

I sew quilt tops and clothes, I knit, I scrapbook, I basketweave.....my wish is to finish a project that I start. I can't possibly pick up a new hobby at this point. I would like to learn to play the piano someday.

kaly February 23, 2009 at 9:16 PM  

Cute Cute Cute! How creative are you!?

I have so many creative wishes, just one is that I could play any instrument (but mostly guitar) by ear. And jazz piano without the books.

Dawn February 23, 2009 at 9:27 PM  

Fantabulous!! Looks like I was directed to you in the nick of time! ; ) Sewing is also my #1 top crafty thing I want to learn to do. =D My husband & I have been trying to get pregnant for over 14 months now and I would *love* to be able to sew something fancy for my first baby.

Bookmarked you, so I can't wait to see everything you have in store for us!

maggie holmes February 23, 2009 at 9:34 PM  

LOVE the paintings! and I would LOVe more info on those (email me please) or better yet, hopefully i will win one!! crossing fingers!! You are SO TALENTED!

I really wish I could play the piano amazingly well! I took lessons for a while but stopped after baby number 3 and haven't had the time or the extra funds to start back up... maybe someday! there's a time and a place for everything right??

Andrea @ Knitty Bitties February 23, 2009 at 9:37 PM  

Oh ... I get to be #50? That seems lucky :).

Hmmm, I wish I could dance really good. Instead I seem to (along with no musical talent) come up short in the rhythm department. But oh it looks like it would be so fun ... I think Irish/Celtic dancing (is it Clogging?) looks SO fun and I'm sure would be a work out and a half. Hmmm, maybe 30+ isn't too late to try.

Thanks for sharing your talent! I'm happy I found your blog from Elizabeth's.

Happy Day!

heidi February 23, 2009 at 9:41 PM  

This is my first visit to your blog and I'm blown away! You are so talented!! I wish I could paint like you. The eyes are amazing, so expressive. I also wish I could write (actually, I can write, I just need to be able to come up with an original idea...).

Kelly February 23, 2009 at 9:49 PM  

Oh I'm watching the Bachelor as I write this!

My creative wish is that I could have one creative thing I could master. Instead I tend to dabble in a few; sewing, photography, crafts and I am not too good at any of them! So if I had to pick one I'd say photography. That's what I'd love to really master.

Mel February 23, 2009 at 9:50 PM  

You are uber talented! :) I'd love the chance to win something made by you. I'd love to be able to sew. Another thing I'd like to do is brush up on my photography skills.
Melissa
OKC, OK

Just me... February 23, 2009 at 10:06 PM  

Great paintings! Would love to read more about pricing, etc. as would love to have my two little dogs done.

AniB February 23, 2009 at 10:20 PM  

Loved the painting you did for Elizabeth K. And hhhhmmmmmm, I wish I were more artistic in many ways. I wish I could draw better...
I wish I knew exactly what to do when I'm holding a few photos, cardstock, and embellishments...
I wish I took better pictures...
I wish I had mad skills in Photoshop and Illustrator...
Thanks for your generosity

Surfk9s@msn.com February 24, 2009 at 12:03 AM  

Jana, I just loved the painting you did for Liz. It is so modern and fresh. Love it!!!

I love to dabble in everycraft there is. My husband just seems to laugh at all my hobbies. My one passion is photography but I wish I was better at it. I never seem to get the right light or catch that unexpected moment. Practice makes perfect my Grams would say so I keep on trying.

familyfun February 24, 2009 at 12:44 AM  

Hi Jana I love your paintings! I wish I could paint too!

Lidia February 24, 2009 at 1:17 AM  

I love your work and try to get some this way... whaahhah..
I wish I could sing. I mean I can sing, but I wish I could really sing and dare to sing in public. It's so relaxing...
Lidia x

pballard February 24, 2009 at 2:41 AM  

So glad I came across your blog. Love your work. I would love to learn how to sew someday. To be able to make curtains, pillowcases or just a simple blanket would be so nice. Can't wait to see some of your older posts. Thanks for the chance to win. Pam
pamballard@comcast.net

Marilyn Goodrich February 24, 2009 at 4:49 AM  

Wow, what an awesome giveaway!! I'll be crossing my fingers that I can be graced with one of your fabulously unique creations! I wish I was able to play an instrument, maybe cello? Alas, despite having some professional musicians in my lineage, I unfortunately did not inherit any natural musical ability.

amyZ February 24, 2009 at 5:00 AM  

I wish I could paint and sew and knit. LOL. I know I could do all of these things if I just set my mind to it, but even typing this is difficult with my 2 year old hanging on my arm. Maybe someday when he is off to kindergarten!

Lisa February 24, 2009 at 5:23 AM  

I wish I could sew!!! How I wish I could make an adorable outfit for my daughter! Maybe one day...

thanks! Lisa K in tx

Terri Paulson-Sasaki February 24, 2009 at 5:45 AM  

I love the painting, so cute. My creative want would be to make adorable clothes for my grand daughters and be a better photographer.

Haley February 24, 2009 at 5:55 AM  

Hi Jana! I love your paintings and plan to write you soon. Creatively I would love to be able to play the violin. I think the sound that it gives off is just amazing!

Libby February 24, 2009 at 6:24 AM  

Hi Jana! You are SOOO talented! I wish I was awesome at all things crafty, but if I could pick one it would be to draw or paint. I can scrapbook, sew, make altered items but I've always envied those that could sit down with a white page or canvas and create something recognizable, like people or animals. For me it's always been stick figures :)

Debbi February 24, 2009 at 6:32 AM  

I just found you from the Just Us blog. Love the painting you did for them. Scrapbooking is my big hobby, but something I've always wanted to do is make a quilt. I've got one my grandma made. My goal is to learn to make one for my grandchildren. When I use my grandma's I feel like I'm wrapped in love. Have a great day.
debbi

Lydia February 24, 2009 at 6:59 AM  

Holy cow! I wish I was creative enough to make a living out of it!..kinda of like you seem able to do! You are amazing :) As a fellow college student I'm so happy to see someone my age with sooo much creativity!! Now only if medical school wasn't about to eat up all of my time :/ I've always wanted to be able to write so creatively that I could be published & these days I wish I could write fluently in Spanish! Have a wonderful day & thanks for the inspiration!

Jennifer Crosby February 24, 2009 at 7:04 AM  

I want to learn to use my SLR so I can take beautiful pics of my children and potentially make money taking pics of other's children. : )

t.m. February 24, 2009 at 7:07 AM  

I would love to learn to sew better. To make my own patterns, and be amazing at it!! I would also love to learn to make the amazing frosting on your Valentine cookies. You should post how!

wadev February 24, 2009 at 7:13 AM  

Love this! I so wish that I could play guitar too. I asked my husband the other day if he's mind if I started takign lessons and he said he had the same thought recently (about himself). I wonder if we can get a discount - two-for-one!

Jocelyn February 24, 2009 at 7:16 AM  

Soooo, I found you through the just us blog as well:-) Absolutely beautiful painting by the way! You are very talented. So, my dream right now is to be the Scrapbooker of the Year...hhhmmm...I bet start getting some original ideas together.

MeganL February 24, 2009 at 7:22 AM  

I would love to learn how to sew too! In fact, I have the sewing machine out...I just need a lesson from someone!
Your paintings are just adorable!! :)
Thank you for the chance to win!!

Stephanie February 24, 2009 at 7:29 AM  

Oh, wow! You are awesome! I saw the painting of your niece on 2peas. As for the contest, I would love to be able to sing. I mean, I sing now but my kids ask me to stop. They say it scares them...so it must be pretty bad! lol...

Leah February 24, 2009 at 7:52 AM  

I wish I could draw :)

parkesphoto February 24, 2009 at 8:07 AM  

oh, oh, i want to be able to do interior design... my house needs a pick me up. i wish, i just knew how colors and styles go together... i guess i ahouls pick up some books or somthing.
awesome give away! mariana

Shara February 24, 2009 at 8:28 AM  

I love that painting you did for Liz. Adorable!!!! I am trying to do something creative at least 3-4times a week. Does gardening count as being creative. I have a new house and this summer the backyard is my project. I want to creative an amazing escape that I can enjoy and my kids can play in. I defintely have the creative juices flowing, hopefully I can figure out enough to make my trees and plants stay alive.

I can't wait for next week. You have to check out Jennifer Mcguires blog, there is an awesome article about the new Bachelor conspiracy-its all making sense to me know. Cant' wait for next week.

Marianne February 24, 2009 at 8:36 AM  

I have way too many things on "my list" but I'd love to learn how to play the guitar. I was close to buying one once and talked myself out of it wondering how in the world I'd have time to practice with a one year old running around! Maybe next year. =)

Jodi February 24, 2009 at 8:40 AM  

Found your blog through Liz's blog! You do lovely work.

I'd love to be able to both sew and play guitar. I have both a sewing machine and guitar - now I just need to learn both!

Nancy February 24, 2009 at 8:59 AM  

I also arrived to your wonderful blog via Liz too. I love your paintings, are you taking orders? I would love to have you create one of my daughter and our Golden Retriever (Goldens are irresistible) Something I've always wanted to learn is how to Throw Pottery with a Wheel!

Chrisanna February 24, 2009 at 9:07 AM  

WOW, I am totally and completely impressed with your creativity! I am in LOVE with your paintings. They are beautiful! I am so excited for the chance to win something fabulously created by you.
Something creative that I want to learn to do is sew. I got a machine last year for Christmas, but still don't know how to use it. I would also love to continue to learn more photography tips and tricks.

s a n s k u :) February 24, 2009 at 9:20 AM  

I already advertised your fun blog in my blog. Hope it's ok. :)

By the way, I'm from Finland and I was browsing your friends too and noticed that elder C is serving in Finland. Cool! I didn't read his blog because I felt it was personal but I quickly glanced at the pictures to see if I'd recognize anyone. :)

I have forever dreamt about being an artist. To be able to make huge paintings in some unique style.

I'd love to learn to play the quitar too but I'd never ever have the patience to learn it.

Love the portraits that you make!

s a n s k u :) February 24, 2009 at 9:21 AM  

ps. Nothing like a giwe away to get million comments. :D

Sarah E. February 24, 2009 at 9:26 AM  

Thanks for the email! :) I absolutely love The Bachelor too and I am routing for Melissa. :) I think I would most love to learn how to play the piano and also knit. Man that makes me sound old. :)

Unknown February 24, 2009 at 9:30 AM  

I found your blog from Liz's post. I LOVE your paintings and will hopefully be contacting you in the near future for some paintings of my 4 kids!
One of the things I would love to learn is how to sew! My Mom has always made clothes, purses, diaper bags, quilts, etc. and I wish I could do that!

Stacey February 24, 2009 at 9:38 AM  

What talent you have! I would love to be able to paint or draw.

angie February 24, 2009 at 9:51 AM  

I would love to be able to sew to perfection (or atleast well enough so that the pants I make aren't half capris, half full length.)
Love the paintings!
Angie

PS... more of a Molly fan myself, but I have a feeling he's going to pick Melissa

George February 24, 2009 at 10:13 AM  

I know that this isn't really "artsy" creative, but I really wish that I was a better dancer. I always feel all stiff and lacking rhythm.

I also wish that I could create art simply from my imagination (without having to see it somewhere first)

Kathy February 24, 2009 at 10:33 AM  

I loved the painting you did for Liz on her just us blog. I wish I were more "fashion crafty". I wear basically the same thing week after week and I really wish I was brave enough to spice up my wardrobe.

Amy L February 24, 2009 at 10:47 AM  

I wish and try to be open minded to see new things in everyday situations. I would love to be able to express myself through painting!

lisa February 24, 2009 at 10:55 AM  

I found your blog thru Liz. Your paintings are amazing. I wisn I could take pictures better.
Thanks for the opportunity to win a prize! How fun!
Lisa

kristen February 24, 2009 at 12:01 PM  

yes i found you through liz... you make some awesome things!! i wish i had the passion and talent to be a better seamstress! and so my sewing machine sits in the dusty corner of my bedroom...

Stamy February 24, 2009 at 12:36 PM  

What an amazing talent you have, your paintings are amazing. I wish I could draw, just to be somewhere or to see something and record it....without my camera.

Deauna February 24, 2009 at 12:36 PM  

I definitely wish I could take amazing photographs. I am so jealous of people with an artistic eye that can capture simple moments with such style and beauty... ahh, but it's not in the cards for me, I don't think. Also, I have always wanted to learn how to blow glass! I think I might take a class in that sometime...

Casie February 24, 2009 at 12:47 PM  

i wish i could paint. i have always wished i was monet or picasso, painting fabulous canvases all my life!

Sarah February 24, 2009 at 1:13 PM  

Dang you are a popular lady! You need to start getting paid for your blog woman.
As far as creativity, I wish I could do anything visually artistic. Paint, draw, photography (I did some in high school, back in the SLR days, or in other words, pre-digital...it'd be fun to have access to a dark room, and do photoshop the old school way). I really wish I could paint though.
I am excited you're having a giveaway. You're super talented!

michele February 24, 2009 at 1:44 PM  

I wish I could paint. I try to put brush to canvas and I just can't leave the kind of marks and create the images I see in my head. And I wish I was a better writer. I have some good ideas up in my head and I seem to lack the ability to really get them out in a way that makes sense.

Erin February 24, 2009 at 2:01 PM  

Love your blog! Also found it from "Just Us" and LOVE that picture you painted for Liz. I thought all day yesterday about what photo I could possibly have you paint for me someday of my two girls. You are SO talented!
Hmmm...I've always wished I could sing better - not to be famous or anything, but at least carry a tune without making people cringe. :)

Stacey Hutson February 24, 2009 at 2:46 PM  

I wish I could paint!!! I love paintings and wish I could express myself this way.

Love your paintings!!!

Stacey

Jodie Allen February 24, 2009 at 2:57 PM  

Hmmm... great question! I would love to be able to illustrate. There are so many amazing children's illustrators and I just love dreaming up all the things I would draw and paint for my kids!

Shawn February 24, 2009 at 3:54 PM  

Your paintings are beautiful. I am going to check my photo archives for some possibilities to get these done for both of my boys.

As far as creativity....I wish I could play the piano or could take really good professional photos.

traceyjb February 24, 2009 at 4:37 PM  

Hi Jana,

Love your blog! Love your paintings as well - they're gorgeous! You are one talented person :)

OK - my creative wish is to come up with something creative on my own - in my own little head! (Instead of always needing to steal inspiration/ideas from others). I also would love to learn how to knit, I'd love to lean how to make beautiful quilts, and I really want to learn more about adobe photoshop so I can play with and enhance my pictures.

Thanks for the great giveaway opportunity and have a wonderful day!

Anonymous February 24, 2009 at 4:55 PM  

I would love to be able to take amazing pictures!!

ahiller February 24, 2009 at 5:03 PM  

I would love to be able to sew quilts. I have seen some awesome ones out there and since I can't cut a straight line with a ruler, I don't think I could sew one either!

Cindy B. February 24, 2009 at 5:06 PM  

Oh, I so wish I could paint beautiful pictures!

I love the picture you gave to Liz! So adorable!

Unknown February 24, 2009 at 5:17 PM  

Hello! I'm one of the people who found you through Liz's blog. I'm hooked! You are so creative and have such a cute blog.
I wish I could paint and be better at the things that I do, like sewing and photography.

tjolley February 24, 2009 at 5:19 PM  

I want to learn how to sew. My Mom is a wonderful seamstress and she has given me an IOU to learn. I am so excited.
The portrait of Lizzie's children is something she will always treasure, just pricesless.

Brittany February 24, 2009 at 5:52 PM  

Jana I LOVE your blog!! Your paintings are amazing!

Some creative things I want to learn how to do (or to do better) is to make gorgeous pastries, to sew ADORABLE baby clothes, and to learn how to sew a quilt! (My goals for 2009)

Cornflower Blue February 24, 2009 at 5:58 PM  

I like to learn how to whittle :-) hehe

Melissa February 24, 2009 at 5:58 PM  

I saw the beautful painting you did for Elizabeth and I had to check out your blog. I'm so happy that I did - I love your creativity and the paintings.

As far as my creative idea - I really want to learn to take high quality pictures by learning a lot more than I know about photography. Also I would love to use Photoshop. P.S. I'd love for you to check out my blog.

Nikki Petersen February 24, 2009 at 6:20 PM  

I just wish that I could be crafty!!! I try and it never works out. Someday one of my many crafts will come out the way it looked like in my head.

Charisma February 24, 2009 at 6:24 PM  

HI Jana,
I too found you via Just Us! I woudl love to learn how to knit...I cand quilt, and scrap and paint...but I would love to make my own fuzzy scraves and hats.

Serendipity February 24, 2009 at 6:32 PM  

Found you at 'just us'...
Your art is Fabulous!

I'd like to be great at photography...

Your blog is delightful...
You deserve to be having THE BEST DAY!

Tina N. February 24, 2009 at 7:48 PM  

I wish I could paint! Love your work---so cute!

Paula February 24, 2009 at 8:34 PM  

Ditto on how I found you (Just Us). I have a feeling your blog will become another of my daily habits. :) As for creativity - I think people would describe me as creative, but honestly I'm not. I'm just good at replicating what I see in books and online. So my wish would be to be creative 100% on my own. I would love for it to only take 30 minutes to make my own card or to complete a scrapbook page instead of the hours it can take if I attempt to be creative on my own. :) I'd also love to write a children's book.

Emily M. February 24, 2009 at 9:07 PM  

I would love to be able to draw well. I also would love to be able to make a film, something fun and quirky and lovely.

Kelly February 24, 2009 at 9:27 PM  

I would die to have that painting of my 2 girls! I couldn't stop staring at the one you made on Liz's blog. I love it!

My creative wish is actually to just be creative. I usually imitate cute things that I see. I've only come up with 2 or 3 cute ideas on my own and even those took me days and days to think up.
I would love to be able create my own beautiful works of art that were my own ideas!

Thanks for this contest! I'm so excited!

Jenn Becker February 24, 2009 at 10:52 PM  

Hello! I just started readying your blog, love it!

I wish I could be an amazing photographer and graphic designer. I would also love to be able to paint the ideas I have in my head, but sadly was not given that talent.

bryn February 24, 2009 at 11:15 PM  

dear jana i know who jason picks and it's nuts because he turns into a sleeze you will just have to wait and see.

and i wish i could draw like you and do makeup for actresses in movies and red carpet and runway and be the most wanted makeup artist out there in the world. i also wish for a lot of creative things but that's it for now:)

Mique (as in Mickey) February 24, 2009 at 11:27 PM  

I hope you don't mind me entering your giveaway! ;) I would die to get my hands on something made by you.
So if I could create anything it would be to be really good at any one thing. I dabble in everything (sewing, embroidery, photography, quilting, etc) but am not diligent enough to get good in one thing. Craft ADD I suppose.

Anonymous February 24, 2009 at 11:35 PM  

Hey, found you through Just Us and I must say, wish I could paint like that! Since I haven't explored that art yet..., I wish I have more time to learn photography. :-)

essie February 24, 2009 at 11:53 PM  

hi jana-
like many of the others, found you through liz's blog too.
i guess, i want to learn how to make the most of the quiet
moments.
i know how to do a lot of things already, i want my children to appreciate the things i love as they learn what it is that THEY love.
if i can't appreciate the quiet time it takes to create-will they?

yikes-whoa deep-i know!
beautiful painting btw, thank you for sharing your gift!

Janelle Wind February 25, 2009 at 2:16 AM  

HI Jana - I have just discovered your amazing talent through Elizabeths blog. I am fortunate enough to work in the craft field but I have always had a secret passion to paint. I would LOVE to be able to put the pictures in my head onto a canvas and have it look spectacular. One day I hope to take lessons and see if I can be free enough to actually give it a go. Thanks for sharing your creativity x Janelle (Australia)

AuBien February 25, 2009 at 3:28 AM  

Hi Jana,...I found you from Just Us too...your painting was amazing! Awesome. I'd love something like that with my sweet cuties on it! :)

Me, I wish I could draw some kind of book about my children...something cute and relevant. I haven't drawn anything in forever and when I try it comes out so silly. Then I shake my head and toss it in the trash.

Thanks for a chance to win!

The Frost Girls February 25, 2009 at 5:26 AM  

i wish i could "think" up something creative on my own. i'm really good at lifting other's ideas, and they usually turn out well, but to come up with something on my own??

congratulations on your first contest :) i think that that's a blog milestone.

kiki comin February 25, 2009 at 5:37 AM  

what a fun idea..i think the thing i would most like to learn is to play the guitar..the one my hubby got for me 6 years ago and that has only left its case a handful of times.:) you are so talented..i am loving those paintings you do!

{VICKI} February 25, 2009 at 6:07 AM  

I wish I could write a children's book. I've been playing around with ideas, but just can't seem to get it going............

I found you through Elizabeth Kartchner----I'm gonna email you too to get more info on getting a painting like you did for her.....i love it!!!!!!!

Evelyn February 25, 2009 at 8:51 AM  

Fun blog! Discovered it while reading Elizabeth Kartchner's blog. I wish I could paint, like my cousin, or like you. Paint anything that would half resemble something beautiful. But since I am not destined to be a painter, the acrylic paint I occasionally slather on to my scrapbook pages will have to do. :-) Thanks for the fun giveaway!

Potters February 25, 2009 at 9:05 AM  

Your blog is awesome. I hope I can win something from your giveaway. You are so talented.

Jennie and Jeff February 25, 2009 at 9:38 AM  

I wish I could sew better and paint! I love your paintings and will be ordering one soon!!

Beck Family February 25, 2009 at 11:21 AM  

My creative want would be to some day own a store called, Stuff made by me, but maybe I should change that and call it stuff made by Jana and I be your store manager. And you could teach me how to paint, take pictures, photoshop, scrapbook, make pottery, and write awesome fonts. Yeah, my creative want is to do everything you can do.

katiebeck February 25, 2009 at 12:55 PM  

I already have something beautiful and hand-made that you created for me, but I have been thinking about this & I decided that I know what I would like my creative talent to be. If I could do any creative thing in the world, then I would get out a mircoscope, petri dishes, research articles, latex gloves, pipets, blood samples and all the other stuff & I would sit down and come up with a cure for cancer! Bye, bye cancer.... yeah, that would take some pretty brainy and creative work!

Love ya!

AngMomof3 February 25, 2009 at 4:26 PM  

You're adorable. So glad I linked to your blog via Lizzy's blog.

(And we're having a Bachelor Finale party here on Monday... wanna join us?)

Hmmm... one creative thing I'd like to be able to do... Mostly, I'd just love to really excel at ONE of the many I already dabble in. But I guess I really wish that I could be a more creative writer. I wish I could voice my feelings for the sake of my family.

Thanks for offering a give away!

Laura February 25, 2009 at 6:25 PM  

There are tons of things on my creativity aspiration list, but the one thing I really want and don't hope to attain in this life is the ability to sing. I don't want to solo, or be on American Idol, or anything like that. I just want to be good enough to sing in choir without being afraid someone will hear my voice. A 6th grade music teacher killed my confidence there and it is something that I cannot learn by reading a book.

NewYorkerAtHeart February 25, 2009 at 7:25 PM  

I love your work! I wish I could draw. I imagine I would enjoy drawing somewhere near water with the sun shining down at me. CHEESY, I know, but that's what I wish I could do. ;)

Rena February 25, 2009 at 9:06 PM  

You are too cute and so funny, I love how you write your blog. ~And I think Jason is a dork for giving up Gillian too...;)

I am okay at most crafts but not super fantastic at one imparticular, so I would love to fine tune my oil painting abilities. ~no natural talent....all learned...which is harder. But I learn fast so one day, I need to take another class or two!

Alyssa February 25, 2009 at 9:16 PM  

I found your blog from Elizabeth's! and i love it! You/your stuff is so fun!

I'm trying to teach myself to sew.. and I guess I would really like to be able to sew very very well!

Beyond that... I wish I could just absorb the crafting/creativity of those around me! Then, I could be good at everything! :)

Amber Zimmerman February 26, 2009 at 5:40 AM  

Hey there. . .found your blog from Elizabeth Kartchner's. Your paintings are aMAZing! =) Love your style girl! Something creative I wish I could do more. . .photography. I want to learn everything there is to know about it. I'm addicted!

Jennifer Slaugh February 26, 2009 at 6:14 AM  

I would love to be able to sew. I would love to make a beatiful quilt for my bed. I would also love to be able to play the piano I want to be in church and be able to play all those wonderful songs that others do. And last but not least I would love to be able to cook. To make wonderful meals for my family, I want them to look great and taste great. maybe some of that stuff that they make on Top Chef that nobody has ever heard of.

Emilie February 26, 2009 at 6:26 AM  

Your paintings rock! So cool...such talent. My wish is to be the most awesome photographer on the planet. I think others have beat me to the punch, though, so I'd settle for being a little better than I am right now. Thanks for the contest!

MommyMe February 26, 2009 at 7:40 AM  

I wish I could create things the way they look in my head!

Unknown February 26, 2009 at 10:19 AM  

Jana-
I am so impressed with your talent and creativity while in this busy time of your life. Love your paintings, love your blog and I feel I've had my daily dose of inspiration now. I would like to creatively decorate my formal dining room. I have the table picked out, but I need the perfect color/colors that will spruce up the space!

p.s. I am married to my mish!!! Keep the faith!

The San Diego Mills February 26, 2009 at 12:22 PM  

What a fun idea, I've seen so many blogging friends doing giveaways lately and think I just may do one myself in the near future! I really wish that I could make a quilt or just be good at sewing in general! I once sewed a scrunchie my soph. year of h.s. and it took me about 2 weeks. So obviously I don't have sewing skills. Anyway, still loving your blog and hearing about your man on the mission and cheering you guys on!

Tina February 26, 2009 at 12:55 PM  

hi - found your blog through elizabeth's - great painting...i need one of those.

I wish I could paint not just paint but mix colors and know what looks good...I practice and I think someday it may all come together...thanks for the chance to win - i will visit again soon...please visit me if you have the chance

http://www.mommyscrapsalot.blogspot.com

Ariel February 26, 2009 at 2:38 PM  

Great blog! I absolutely love it! Besides photography my creative desire is to know how to start a non-profit organization to help all kinds of people in need. Then I would love to see my little idea turn into something huge like March of Dimes or something like that. I already have a name in my head of what I would call it. I just haven't a clue of how to get started.

Thanks for your inspiring blog.

PS I'm going to email you about some tips for painting with acrylics. :)

cyndibabe February 26, 2009 at 4:00 PM  

Hi Jana,
We are absolutely loving the painting of Chloe!!! Some of my many creative dreams are to also paint w/ mixed media, scrapbook (there are so many ideas out there, I get overwhelmed)design funky clothing and my longtime creative wish is it to write a fun & fabulous line of children's books & have Daryl illustrate them... My home & family would love any bit of your incredible creativity so I hope we win!!! ;O) Thank you!!

Unknown February 26, 2009 at 6:18 PM  

I wish that I could paint. I have attempted a few canvases but nothing comes out just the way I want. I see all of these sites like Donna D's and yours with these awesome prints and think "Man, I wish I could do that!" You are amazing!

Karenj February 26, 2009 at 7:35 PM  

Hi Jana! I found your blog from the painting you did for lizzie k., I was intrigued because I love anything to do with ART. That was my dream long ago, but not something I get to dabble in a lot these days. I used to draw and paint and I love that, I think someday when life slows down I will again. The thing I am most interested in learning now creatively is how to take awesome pictures.... Take care!

Elise February 27, 2009 at 7:13 AM  

I just found your blog through Lizzie Kartchner. Your paintings are beautiful! I also am mad that Jason kicked Jillian off. They had the same nose, and that means it was just meant to be. And he ruined it!

Tiff February 27, 2009 at 10:07 AM  

And yes I also came across your fun blog through your amazing talent. Beautiful paintings! Man there are so many things I wish I could create. I just took up crochet and love it, but wish I could figure out how to knit. I also wish that I could draw more than stick figures :)

Jill February 27, 2009 at 5:56 PM  

Jana! I am SO glad that I came across your blog earlier this week through Liz's post about your painting! I feel so lucky that I'll soon be having one of your amazing masterpieces hanging here!

Hmmm, my creative wish would be to have my own fashion boutique selling my personal HANDMADE clothing line!

RachelTate March 2, 2009 at 3:55 AM  

I want to be able to knit/crochet. I want to create beautiful blankets, booties, and sweaters