While journaling this morning and reviewing what I needed to accomplish today, I realized I had nothing on my schedule. Zip. No appointments. I have plenty of things to do, but nothing is of urgency or arrangements that would allow me to schedule how my day will unfold. It’s a rare moment. This moment has me asking myself how I can include more of these days.
I find that days like today are when my creativity and playfulness shine. I am more present with the world around me, enjoying its beauty and stillness. I’m listening to what nature tells me and grateful for the messages I receive. This is when I want to document the life around me by painting, memory keeping, writing, and junk journaling. It might sound silly to you, but I feel when I slow down, nature shows me all her glory to see. Purposefully putting things in my paths like butterflies, frogs, deer, and hearts. Even sitting here writing at my kitchen table, I watch the ray of sunshine come through as it dances on the side of my fridge. I’m noticing how the trees swing in the wind and the birds fly as they seem to be part of the show. It’s at this moment that I appreciate everything. And for even more validation, just before I was about to type this paragraph, I looked down to see my word count (which I never do), and the number was 226. I often see this number that represents home, love, and gratefulness. I hope you will find beauty in your day today. Until next time.
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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:
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. |
AuthorArtist, author and creative entrepreneur. Documenting life using my planners, traveler's notebooks, junk journals and a little mixed media art. Archives
October 2023
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