14 Comments

Hello, a note of yours popped up, + I found my way to your request.

Thanks for inviting thoughts.

I live with a lot of physical restriction, which currently means ridiculous time-up constraints, too, and I find my way ongoingly, to give room enough for my creative impulses to land satisfyingly.

'Lowering the bar' + making Peace with How Things Are, both help.

I include 'paying it forward' in 'practice' now - sometimes organising the space to work in, or readying the currently-relevant materials, + noticing what's calling as I go - that may be as much as I have time for, and I make it ok, 'enough', for now. Something, adding into the overall creative flow.

I took a few months of not-posting, just rejoining the reach-out flow this week. And I mentioned, how Artistry is key to my being able to feel good amidst it all.

I generally share images of what I produce, in my own Sweet Time. I write a bit, too. I hope you may find something of value to you, amidst your current challenges, in my offerings, if you visit.

Sending you wishes for Grace-Full Navigation, going forward.

+ Thank you for your post; it brought me a sweet 'kindred' meeting moment.

I'll enjoy exploring your other posts, too.

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Also cool idea you had using the edge to apply white!

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I can’t claim to always remember during stressful times that my art practice is helpful. But just the act of strokes applied to surface is good for an eye hand memory as well as the calming effect that strokes can create if working slowly with intention. Sometimes quick sketches make me more nervous! I have sketchbooks with all kinds of medical devices drawn in from waiting. These weird items make me really think, cause they are not like anything I normally draw. Know you and your family have well wishes coming your way from here.

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For me it’s Sudoku. Not very creative, but my brain feels comfortable with numbers. I can wait for hours if I have a Sudoku book in my bag.

Best wishes to you and your family with the waiting, the diagnosis and the treatment plan. 🪷🌻

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I know several people who would also prefer to sudoku. I think the basic benefit is finding something that fully engages the brain to minimize the worry.

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Sending you love, I’m sorry you’re dealing with something so hard. Yes, art does help with the hard times, I can’t agree more.

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Thanks so much Jenn.

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You are welcome ❤️

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Likewise, I do quick doodles to calm down. I keep small loose sketch pages and a mechanical pencil in my purse whenever I’m on the go. Also, decluttering the photo album on my phone helps clear my mind a bit.

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I've had a 10 to 20 minutes session with a sketchbook every morning for years - through both good and difficult times. The habit has definitely smoothed the rougher edges of life. Thanks for writing !

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Perfect timing having spent five ER hours last night with sick husband. God knew I needed your message this morning to remind me I am not alone and to find those moments of respite (like this one) for myself. Blessings to you, Jo. 🙏

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May blessing surround you and your husband too Mary.

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Much love and healing prayers to your family member and you. These ideas are so helpful. Thank you for sharing them. I love incorporating creativity even in hard times and these are great ideas!

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Thank you so much Amy.

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