While the Sun Shines

It’s time to have some fun while the sun shines! Ed and I are out almost every night for sunsets and lately I’ve been indulging in some late night swimming after dark. There’s something so peaceful and solitary being the only one in the lake. Just me and the fish.  

We’ve done a bunch of house projects–big ones, and I’ve needed a way to deal with the chaos and stress of it all, and water is my healer. But as of this week, all the major projects are done! I’m ready to sit back and enjoy our space.  

And there’s flowers and fruit, the cherries and the blueberries, my heart is full of colors and taste. It’s time to be out. Time to DO.  Time to FIND. Time for FUN! My parents are at the cottage up here and we’ve had them over several times. It’s so great to be so close for a few months and they’re always up for something spontaneous! Ed’s “kinda” niece was up for a visit. She’s always a good time!

I’m finding quiet time for looking and listening. This morning, I drove 20 minutes to get my favorite biscuits and gravy. Seated at the table next to me was a friendly man who was a bit chatty. We exchanged a few words and found he was particularly interested in my grief paintings and poetry. We were the only ones in the back of the restaurant and that gave us an opportunity for a real conversation–a profoundly intimate sharing of grief. His wife of many years passed away about a year and a half ago. He said talking to me was like looking in a mirror! Another reminder about the importance of this work. Got to keep an eye out for these experiences.

I’m paying attention. I’m paying attention.

What catches my eye? The lake sparkles and makes me think about where’s the sparkle for me right now? Where’s my new joy? What’s going to show up next in my work?  

I’m gathering and playing with some driftwood and organic fibers as I continue to toy with the idea of making some organic sculptures. I’ve started several neutral paintings that I plan to frame traditionally and hang for myself. There’s finally room to start working on the big series of 48x48” paintings too.  

In general, I’m making space for play. Play is so important to my creative process. Play CREATES energy. Play MAKES joy. This is a season for openness, for fun, for exploration! I ordered a 9x12” pad of canvas paper so I can doodle to my heart’s content while I keep watching and keep listening.