If reading art blogs makes you glow, flit on over to Pencils and Fireflies . The beautiful blogger behind it, Amalia, is a full time independent illustrator and crafts enthusiast. She began the blog during a dark time, when life had stolen away her dreams. Just when the nights were at their blackest, she started doodling again and drew hope back into her heart. Art is her haven, one she invites her readers to take refuge in whenever they feel worn down to the end of an eraser nub. Amalia's made it her personal project to show us that art heals and makes us better people at the end. Her blog focuses on art in all forms. She writes about her life, work, inspirations and passion for art. And although the images from other artists she finds are amazing, my favorite posts are from her In The Studio category. Reading how pieces evolve from daydreams into reality always fascinates me. For example, the charming pair to the left. I wouldn't have guessed Amalia was an insectophobic ...