I thought this might be where I wanted it but I will still have to push it. I may go the way I usually render but I would still like to find that translation from the watercolor that works. I look forward to the next one because I think I know what the problem is. Its too random in the direction of the marks. They need to flow in relation to each others direction. Below is the starting point and I think I like the less realistic one better. Next time, I will be looser in the accuracy. The other option is to just keep it traditional. I don't like that idea.
The final on top was done the long way in illustrator. I don't like the live trace or other automatics (for the most part) although they serve a purpose. This way, there are less points and I have more control doing them by hand. Iv done a lot of paths and can get through them fairly quickly. Its tedious but I love it.