Spring

I’m really glad spring is here--and more sunshine. I’ve been playing in the garden sweeping away the last bits of fall and winter, cleaning up the canvas so Mom can paint it with pretty flowers. Since the days are getting longer, I feel I have more time to be creative both in the garden and in my studio.
Taxes and boring organizational tasks out of the way, I can focus on fun. I have painted once since working with Charlisa; I’ll post pictures of the additional work soon. Since I completed quite a bit, I’d like to push and finish one of the panels this weekend. I also need to get caught up on cards since there are a couple of birthdays I’m about to miss. I can’t quite figure out where I lose all my time. I feel rather inadequate I’m not producing more art when I have so little to show for my time. I see so many tremendous artists who have children, husbands, jobs, and other responsibilities to steal away their creative time yet they produce so many beautiful things. Is it that I’m too easily distracted or just too lazy? Spring is full of fresh growth and new beginnings so I’m hoping to inject my all projects with spring fever.

Art therapy

I’m a collector of unfinished projects. I have everything from a tri-fold room divider I’ve been “painting” for about 10 years to an unfinished car restoration I embarked on 6 years ago. Working to squelch my tendency to procrastinate and start a new uncluttered life, with fresh eyes I’m beginning to sort out what still fits and conclude everything that doesn’t. The Spitfire is a prime example of a project that no longer fits my life. It only serves to remind me of the past and money wasted. Even if it were magically finished, it is an unwanted weight on my shoulders. That project goes in the discard category. A few of my unfinished projects I’d still like to see completed. One obvious reminder of often started projects I’ve failed to follow through is the painted screen standing quietly unfinished and forlorn in my living room. Completing this visible reminder will be a huge victory in overcoming procrastination and a symbol of accomplishment. My friend Charlisa, who is a very talented painter, has volunteered to provide motivation and lend me a hand in finishing the project. After this emotionally difficult week, I’m really looking forward to some carefree time spent doing “art therapy” and sharing lots of laughs. Even if we don’t finish, I will make real progress toward a goal—and get a chance to catch up with Charlisa.