Time to Explore

It's no secret that 2010 was a particularly difficult year for me...a Lupus diagnosis, my husband's stroke and the usual garden variety challenges that go with aging parents and a down economy.  With every challenge that had to be met, it seemed as if my art slipped further and further away.  It wasn't just the time issues, as in no time to play, or the energy issues, although that was a big part of it.  It was also about inspiration and desire.

I'm working on the time and energy part with a better diet and exercise regimen, and organizing my day to minimize the "running around like a chicken with its head cut off" episodes.  These things I can do with a little discipline and the word "No" coming back into my vocabulary.  LOL!  You know, the "everyone is more important than me" syndrome. It seems we all suffer from it from time to time, and in 2010 it had me by the tail.

But the loss of desire and inspiration to create is harder, and more than a little scary, for me.  I tried telling myself to jump back in, but it hasn't worked.  My heart is just not in it.  So, I decided to try and figure out where my heart truly lies these days.  Yes, I'm going exploring...and I'm taking along a few books to help me on my way.

I bought this book because I admire Kelly Rae Roberts and love her techniques.

Also, I'm especially drawn to mixed-media paintings,
but for some reason I'm afraid to try it.

I've been painting since I was very young,
so this fear is baffling to say the least.  

I'm also reading this book because I tend to procrastinate.

And the author is perfectly willing to give you a real kick in the pants

about making excuses and not doing what you need to do.

She's kind of like your mother and your mentor rolled into one.

The last of my guidebooks is about mixing art and business.

I love reading business books.  I know - I'm weird!

When I started my blog I thought I would write about art and antiquing/junking, but it really didn't work out that way.  In fact, I barely wrote at all.  So this year I'm going to rededicate myself and my blog to exploring my heart and the art that I know is still in there somewhere.  Want to come along?

I'll see you on the road less traveled, dear friends.

Hugs,

Susan