My saving grace

We went to a burial on Friday. It was for my husband’s brother-in-law who had suffered from a stroke a few months ago. It was in a rural part of the state and it was eye-opening for me to see the number of people out and about without masks. My husband and I both were double-masked throughout the day. He has received one of two vaccinations and is set to receive his second one today. We stayed with my parents as their house is kind of a way mid-way point to where the service was being held. They received their second shot yesterday. I’m relieved that they will be “safe” from the idiots who don’t believe in science.

Although not all are idiots and some are quite intelligent and believe what they hear on certain media outlets.

I was in kind of a slump for a couple of weeks the latter part of January. The pandemic and the isolation is getting to me. I very much miss interactions with people who are not my husband. My brain starts going down all sorts of different paths when I get into these types of ruts. I’ve not yet found a way around it other than time. I know it passes eventually, but when I’m in the midst of it, it really, really sucks.

Art making has been my saving grace. I have this pandemic to thank for that. I was telling my husband that I never thought I was good at art. This pandemic afforded me the opportunity to slow down a little bit and delve into that creative muse that has been whispering in my ear for as long as I can remember.

The art for today’s post is the second in a year long series done by Effy Wild called “The Year of Mary.” Each painting incorporates a quote by Mary Oliver. At the end of the year, I can create a calendar for next year. I love the ethereal quality of this one. I’m learning to trust my instincts and not be afraid to try something on my own. Effy had different supplies than what I have, so I had to make-do with what I had and trust that it would work. Each piece that I produce, I’m seeing that I’m improving in my art. It’s exciting for me to witness my own growth.

Too often, we don’t celebrate our own worthiness. We are taught as girls that if we celebrate ourselves that we are conceited and admonished not to get too big for our britches. I’m not going to be humble in my abilities anymore. I am creating some pretty awesome stuff and I look forward to continue to learn and to create and become.