Thorin Oakenshield and Filters

Given how I feel about Richard Armitage *swoon*, it was inevitable that my next sketch from the Hobbit would be of Thorin Oakenshield or "Thorton" Oakenshield, as he is known among the females of this household (most likely, only fans of North and South will get the reference). Been playing around with this sketch for about 3 days, trying to take my reference from 3 different photos to try to create a more unique portrait. Here is the scanned graphite sketch, only slightly darken with the "levels" adjustment in Photoshop.

Then I played around with some of the filters and enhancements. These were three of my favorites.

WARNING: Playing around with PS filters can be highly addicting. Proceed with caution.

I can't wait to see The Hobbit again, only in 2D. No more 3D for me. 

Also, we took 10 of our grandkids to see Rise of the Guardians yesterday. I've been a huge fan of William Joyce's artwork since reading Dinosaur Bob. I have the two Guardian picture books and so was familiar with the story. We were not disappointed. Not only was the animation amazing, the story was original and the messages timely and tender, with emphasis on cultivating the WONDER of childhood  which fits right into my new year goals. When a children's movie can ask important questions, like "What is at your center?" I have to give it my heartfelt recommendation. 

Lego-holics Anonymous

Hello. My name is Kim Kincaid and I am a Lego-holic. It all started with the grandchildren. It was innocent enough, opening that box of brightly colored, interlocking pieces in their organized, sequentially numbered bags for my grandson. But then, he was struggling with a part of the instructions and I...well, I began by reading the directions to him, helping him locate the corresponding shapes. I saw how they fit together...the logic of the design, the soft click when the wheels latch on to the little hubcaps. I was overcome. Soon, my grandson was relegated to assembling the little Lego people, while I finished putting together the buildings with their clever hinged doors and windows. Soon, the bags were empty (except for those few little extra pieces) and before my eyes stood a rescue truck and fire station. We both gazed at the Lego and then at each other and collectively exclaimed, "Cool"! Next, we were pouring over the ads on the back of the instructions, deciding which set Grandma should buy.

At first I waited for sales. But they were too few and far between. Soon, I was buying them regardless of cost. Harry Potter, Toy Story, Atlantis, Star Wars, City, Pirates.... But nothing can compare to discovering the Lego VIP point system. The more you buy, the more points you accumulate...and then you can buy more and then get more points which lead to more Legos and then.....well, you can see my addiction is out of control. That is why I'm here confessing.

But friends, I'm reaching out to you for help because....this June 2012,  Lego will come out with THESE!:

I am in so much trouble here folks. So far, I have Justified my Lego obsession because I share with my grandchildren (as long as they put them away in the "correct" baggie when they are done). But THESE....no way kiddies.

THESE ARE MINE....MY PRECIOUS LEGOS!!!!!!

The Hobbit Movie

Anyone who knows me, understands what a huge Tolkien fan I am. Today, it was announced on TheOneRing.net that the movie will become a reality and that Guillermo del Toro will be directing it. Read more about it here. I'm starting now to make up some awesome dwarf costumes. Watch out family. I be looking for recruits come line party time!