Completely unrelated- my first portrait

I'm hoping to give away paintings for my christmas presents this year. Canvas and paint are relatively cheap materials, and its rather obvious I could afford the practice ;).

This is my first attempt at a portrait, so what better subject to choose than my girlfriend, right? I havent heard any major complaints from her, so I'll consider it a keeper.

It can be very frustrating when you have a specific aura or feeling you are trying to portray, but sloppy brush skills and rough edges can get in the way.

I was attempting to evoke the qualities of a person that is strong willed, yet friendly and outgoing.