New Year's Card(inal)

I cloned out several small branches and toned down the brightness of the background on the left. I also painted the eye as it was very dark, almost black. I used Topaz Simplify in 2 different layers with 2 different settings, blended with the original, one with soft light blend mode. Then I added the frame with PhotoFrame and a few snowflakes around on the frame and on the branch with another snow brush also, and added the star sprays under the text and the music notes.

I hope everyone has a healthy and prosperous New Year!

Very cute and clever Judy :S3: I love the puffed up bird and the open mouth. Great text and use of the stars and music notes!! Nice work, Happy New Year!

Judy, the original capture looks great and I love your enhancements - it makes a perfect card. Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year also:S3:

Happy new year Judy. Excellent, creative work from you as always. My best to you for the new year.

Thanks for the comments and good wishes Denise, Cheryl and Dave!

Perfect pose and processing, Judy! Love the RED. Happy 2013!!

The title is just perfect. Nice work on the eye, too. You did that very well. I like that the snowflakes on the branch and frame are almost subliminal.

Thanks very much Dennis! I was sorely tempted to put snowflakes in the background of the image but I restrained myself, LOL.

Love your puffed up cardinal, Judy. Very nice card. I think I would have liked the snowflakes :S3:

Very nice work Judy...love the text and notes too. I have a pair hanging around my backyard set-up but can't get them up on the perches yet.