They.................

Ever Wonder Who "They" Are?

We hear it all the time: "they say you shouldn't wear white before Memorial Day" or "they say that chocolate is bad for you".  The idea of some universal panel of experts falling under the heading of "they" has always annoyed me.  I've never been very good at listening to what "they" say.    

I've always heard that "they" said that living a kind and noble life, avoiding excess alcohol, cigarettes, and illegal drugs would result in a long and healthy run at this existence.  Wrong again "they". I found out that I have cancer.  

I know that there are certain phases that "they" say I will go through to deal with this new curve ball.  I am in day three of having this diagnosis.  I've already gone through extreme sadness, self-pity, guilt, anger, and utter determination.  I'm not sure how many phases there are in all, but I seem to be discovering them at a rapid clip.  I'm fairly certain that I will not only find myself dealing with new feelings, but that I will revisit the ones I've been hurtling through. Deal with them I will though.  I initially found myself completely paralyzed unable to even form coherent thoughts.  Well that sh----- just ain't gonna fly (as my oldest would say)!!

I'm going to follow my crazy thoughts on this blog and post photos of the art that comes out of this experience as long as I can.  In the meantime, I am happy to accept any positive thoughts that float out into the universe on my behalf.  And as far as "they" are concerned, I'm out!  Take your opinions elsewhere :)......................

The Joys of Swapping!

 

I have a friend in Virginia Beach that I have never met!  Veronica and I found each other through Blog Spot several years ago and have been art swapping buddies ever since.  We take turns setting a theme for the swap and then we give each other a couple of months to complete the challenge.  As artists, we have very different styles and yet we both come from a strong love of mixed media.  I learn so much from Veronica and the things she sends me.  

Her art is bright, lively, cheerful and generous.  I take something away from each and every piece.   In addition to sending me  awesome art pieces, Veronica is a supportive friend who is always willing to offer an ear when needed.

 I love swapping with my internet buddy and am grateful for the trick of fate that brought us together.

Thank you Veronica!!

Coastal Retreat..........................

Okay, it's true.  I am retired.  So why is it, that this time of year still makes me think about vacations and get aways?  I feel the need to get out of dodge, rest, relax, and feel the ocean or lake between my toes.  Had a retiree given me this speech while I was still teaching full time, I would have listened politely but secretly chosen a view colorful phrases as I thought about how a retired person could possibly "need" a vacation!

 

I now have a different perspective.  Fearful of being bored and lonely when I first stopped working, I quickly found a number of volunteer opportunities that would insure continued interaction with the human race. In addition to running my art business, I volunteer for three separate organizations.  On top of that, are all of the typical events that arise when one is part of an extended family and I actually find myself having to schedule "studio" time to be sure I tend to my business.  

 

I'm not complaining about any of it.  I love my new life! I'm simply acknowledging that  even now I am busy and exhausted.  In short, I need a vacation; much like my two little baby bird friends above who have recently flown to the coast for a little r & r..............................

The Gift of Time................

I often used this phrase when discussing possible retention issues with parents of my students.  Concerns ranged from little ones identified as late bloomers in certain subject areas such as reading to an overall immaturity that could possibly impact successful completion of the following grade level.  My intention was to assist parents in accepting the additional time needed for their child to mature as a gift that they were bestowing upon him/her as opposed to an academic delay equating with punishment.  The debate goes on in public schools as to the validity of academic retention vs chronological promotion at any cost.  I don't know the answer and thankfully I don't have to make that all important call anymore.  I do know that the children (and there are less than a handful ) who were retained under my tutelage, had very positive experiences as a result of the decision.  In fact one young lady who repeated first grade with me and is now a married mother of one, maintains contact and expresses her appreciation for the "gift of time" I gave her.

These days, the gift of time concept has a completely different meaning for me.  Two years ago, after much soul searching and debate, my husband agreed to bestow such a gift on me by supporting my early retirement and subsequent new career as an artist.  I so appreciate his understanding of my need to do this for myself.  I gave public education 32 years of my life, dedicating long hours, personal monies, and total commitment to the cause of educating our young people.  In addition, I raised two beautiful young men and am now an empty nester.  This is my time and I hope to spend it wisely as well as creatively.  The above piece is dedicated to my husband for his complete support..............................