Moments of inspiration and creativity

A warm welcome to you from Crows Chase Cottage. With the last week of August now behind us, I would like to reflect on how the last few days have brought such lovely moments of inspiration and creativity. Having written last week of the need to be still, to step back and focus on why I began this journey, I think that realization brought positive changes. Early last week, I made a plan for each day. Errands on Monday, my day at Grinning Possum on Tuesday, Wednesday shopping, with the remaining days for painting and crafts. By mid week, my vibe hadn't bounced back. I felt sluggish and deflated, not necessarily due to lack of creativity, but due to high heat and drought. Strangely enough, long dry spells zap me of energy, almost like it zaps my gardens of life. Our lawns and gardens had large dusty patches and many of the wildflowers were wilted and turning brown. I needed some brightness and color for my home, so I picked up a magnificently yellow bouquet of flowers that had been extremely discounted. Their brightness brought joy to the entry steps of our cottage, and lifted my spirits a great deal. Amazing isn't it? How just a small thing can boost our emotions, our spirit. Do you find that to be true? Don't overlook those small things, it can change your entire vibe, be that kick start you needed to keep creating.

With the arrival of Thursday, I was more than ready to put brush to canvas and begin practice sessions. There are still so many styles of painting that I wish to improve upon. Moreover, there are numerous scenes that I desperately need to practice painting overall. But this is my journey, and I have to take it at my pace. We all have our own strengths and weaknesses, our struggles. Some of us pick up on techniques more quickly than others, some can paint or draw flowers brilliantly....others struggle for months before finally capturing the perfect petal. ❤ But we are creating art no matter the final outcome. It is a beautiful journey, every moment we put into our creating, our art form, is therapy. I realize that seems to be my catch phrase, and I am good with that. 😊 Even though I was attempting something new, painting bark on a large branch, I enjoyed the process. The act of figuring out what colors of paint I might need to create this image was even enjoyable. I do believe that observing your surroundings, especially when creating pieces that involve nature can be a massive benefit. Beyond just observing, actually being in a natural setting can calm our souls and inspire us generally. In the end, I chose lamp black, burnt umber, yellow ochre, and white to complete my painting. I was ready. However, I will freely admit that the moment my brush touched canvas, my nerves were not steady. But I pushed onward.

The branch took shape, using black as the base color. Then everything else was layered, umber, ochre, white...with a quick blending in between each application. Finally, the completed limb lay before me....and I was actually pleased. 😀 I hadn't failed, it looked nice....and I had created something that 10 minutes before had not existed. A sense of accomplishment settled in. In completing this practice, I knew I had laid the foundation for completing an overall painting of magnolia blossoms planned later. So if you dread even picking up a brush to practice, please don't. Every brush stroke is a step forward in your own creative journey.....and you deserve every moment of creativity. 👏

My Friday was hurried as I kept thinking of more and more items that would work for Saturday's junk journal class. Even though I spent most of the day digging through supplies, packing up goody bags, and figuring out which instruction outline was best, my thoughts were positive, even excited. The idea that I would be instructing others beginning their artistic journey left me a bit overwhelmed. But, a good overwhelmed. So when class began on Saturday afternoon, I knew it was going to be fun!

That was my goal....no stress, just creating and joy. One of the participants had been journaling for a few years and was familiar with most techniques I demonstrated, but not everything. However, there was one that had never heard of junk journaling and was thrilled to learn. This person thoroughly enjoyed every piece we created. They were hooked! I noticed how their face lit up with each new little technique or example of up-cyling given. This positive reaction of these participants is exactly why I wanted to share my art! That they can forget the chaos outside, focus on creating, calm their spirit, is success in my book. 

The fact that you have brought this happiness to others by introducing them to a new creative outlet is powerful. You can do that for others. Don't hide away your knowledge, whatever art you create. If someone shows a true interest in your craft or art, offer to guide them in learning about it. Even if it is just basics. That can do wonders for someone feeling like they haven't anything to create, no outlet. Yes, it is intimidating to think about. I was intimidated in the beginning but the joy I show with my creativity will appear genuine to others. That makes all the difference. They will know you are authentic, you actually want to help them on their journey with creating. In doing this, it does not just cheer their spirit, it can also cheer yours. With your small act of sharing what you are passionate about, you have taken a large leap forward on your journey. And that is what we are seeking, a beautiful creative journey. 

With such wonderful creativity and inspiration taking place throughout the week, it was fitting that our overly hot and dry patch of weather broke Saturday evening. Rain and average temps arrived! As I write this, the sky is mostly cloudy and the grass remains quite damp. More precipitation is due this afternoon, which is still needed. My little garden pond had been getting lower, leaving some of the shallow plant pots exposed. This morning the depth had improved and I noticed a new blossom forming on the pickerel rush. With the onset of cooler daily temps this week, a new mindset in my creative process, and more classes to teach.....it seems as if September will be offering up beautiful opportunities for creating. As we journey closer to autumn, it is my hope that you also find those beautiful moments of inspiration and creativity. And don't be afraid to share your gifts if someone seeks them out. You have the power to guide someone, to alter someone's life for the better without ever knowing. You could be that 'one' thing they needed. And you know what? That is powerful 🙏 With kindest regards, from the cottage at Crows Chase.