Last but most certainly not least: the super-talented Cole! I was a little worried when I was sketching him out that he was going to be too Bieber-y, but in the end, it all worked out. Props to Angela for being my fake drummer model so I could get the hands. 

I have to say the most rewarding thing about this whole process has been the reception. They were totally fun to paint, but to hear a kid say "I love it!" and actually mean it is a reward in itself. 

There are going to be more illustrative portraits in the future..... 

My awesome nephew Jude is a huge fan of baseball. The request was to incorporate blue and white,  and the number 85 if possible. My son got his bat and posed for me to help out - my kids are used to me grabbing them and posing them. 

Original pic: 

Joe's little sister is my niece Amanda, who loooooves herself some glitter! I used some of my favorite glitter watercolors on her portrait. And pink. Lots and lots of pink.

Original snapshot:

And now with a little glam:

I tried something a little different for the holiday paintings this year. I asked everyone if they'd like a portrait (yes) and how they'd like to customize it. They were such great fun to do! Here's my favorite oldest nephew, Joe.