I couldnt decide whether to actually write a journal or not, so i've decided to use it as a "list of resources" :)
Brushes:
http://ka05.deviantart.com/art/Splatter-Brushes-31656209 - splatter brushes
http://project-gimpbc.deviantart.com/ - a huge list of brushes - v.good.
Renders:
http://www.clantemplates.com/renders/gallery/ - various, mainly game related
http://mh4fungallery.altervista.org/index.php?pag=mostri - monster hunter renders
http://s766.photobucket.com/albums/xx303/RDK--RENDERS/ - football renders. Constantly updated, excellent resource
http://forums.digitalwarfare247.com/index.php?/topic/1380-render-centre/ - MW2 Renders