Acorn is in a painting class this semester. It's almost complete (finals are next week). Watching them tackle their assignments has motivated me to spend more time painting. (I had plans to attend an art school in Ottawa a few years ago—I'm still a little sad that didn't work out.) Peeking over their shoulder at their experience is incredible.

Surrounding yourself with creative people in creative spaces is an addictive way to live!

I remind myself that learning isn't only found in art programs, schools, and classrooms. It is an incredible way to expand and challenge yourself as an artist. If I have a chance to go, I will—in a heartbeat!

While the art school path isn't an option right now, I am so lucky that there are so many online resources. It requires more self-direction and discipline... but it is right there!

While working on this painting, I noticed the different paths it was taking me. It was like I was the same person split into multiple people on separate, simultaneous journeys.

Me #1 was looking at and feeling the emotions that the photo I was painting brought up in me.

Me #2 was following my work (which had transformed into a sherpa, a guide at this point)... following it forward to a new experiential place, both emotionally and artistically.

Me #3, scared but curious and willing, following the evolution of my interpretation of the photo on my canvas.

Me #4 is the learner, the student, of what does and doesn't work.

And Me #5 is the teacher who can see what needs to be pushed, stretched, and explored... pushing and encouraging me to experiment, practice, and learn more.

A few nights ago, Paul and I watched a 15-minute TedTalk by writer Aimee McNee. In it, she talks about the critical importance and value of being a creative. I loved it because, for me, it confirmed the importance of creative work - both on a societal and personal level.

One of the hard parts of what's happening in the US is the dehumanizing, dumbing down, and making of things meaningless, uninspired, and exhausting. The moments when I feel the most hope are when I see others creating. Creativity comes in many shapes and sizes. Regardless of the type, the impact ripples and expands like a rock dropped into a pond.

Okay - I was almost done when Chibi asked me to take her out. I stepped outside our sliding door with her and was met with the sound of birds singing. I used the Merlin Bird app to identify who was singing by their songs and chirps:

Red-winged Blackbird, Chipping and American Tree Sparrows, and a Northern Cardinal. 🥰

And just over the top of all of them was the sound of someone playing violin. I tried to figure out where it came from because it was obviously live. Whoever it was, they were good and playing with beauty and emotion. It felt like yet another affirmation.

With creativity and hope,
Janece