One question I often get asked with my artwork is how do I start? How do I know what to paint, where to put my photos, or what quote to choose? Unfortunately, I don't know what I want to do when I start.  

I look at what supplies I want to use, hit my stash, and just start playing. That makes art so beautiful because it plays out right before your eyes.

I am also a person who loves being messy. I don't worry about mishaps. I also don't take much time deciding what paint, image, or words to use; I see it and immediately start to use it. I just jump right into it.

It's the same with how do I know when I am finished? I knew it was done for this specific piece  (photo above) when the quote matched the art and image I wanted to reflect. I love it when I am finished "playing" and look at it and am happy with what I just created.

The more you regularly take time to play and explore, the more confident you become in your choices. I'm still a beginner but love making time to "art" daily. I am now at a point where I am comfortable with calling myself an artist.

Now it's your turn, you are...

I announced I was retiring a few weeks ago through my online newsletter, somewhat transitioning than retiring. Now that I have a CEO for Women Empowering Women Now, it has allowed me to embrace my creative side more profoundly and purposefully. It has also provided me time to spend with my grandchildren and assist my daughter where I can be of service.

This short journey so far has been a bitter-sweet one. I have released my business coaching except for a few clients I talk to monthly. My days are not filled with endless to-do’s (trust me, I still have tasks), but it’s a different feeling. I feel the urgency has lifted from me, and I am more at ease with the flow of my days. But at the same time feel like I am mourning the loss of my former go-getter self.

As I step into my new journey in this next phase of my life, I am setting soulful boundaries that will protect me and allow me to bloom.

Here are some of them:

• Turning to my art as a creative and emotional outlet daily
• Learning to protect my heart without feeling guilty about it
• Saying No, whenever something doesn’t feel like a big YES
• Connecting to nature, trees, plants, animals, walking, watching, listening, and being
• Writing
• Spending time ALONE
• Making time for those things that matter most

I am learning it’s okay to do nothing. Sit and admire the sunset, play shamelessly with my dog, or sleep in!

I am learning to let go of the people, places, and things that no longer serve me and to embrace and love the life I am living now.