Mandi I have come back for another look at the picture of your friends I love it, your style reminds me of one of my favourite artists Beryl Cook have you seen any of her work ?
I have added a link in case you haven't she has a good sense of humour I might add, that is partly why I love her, her work always makes me smile.
http://www.berylcook.org/desktopdefault_BC.aspx?tabid=94&tabindex=0