It has been over 2 months since I've stitched a stone.
I find that totally unacceptable, especially since I consider the act of stitching these little meditations a form of therapy. It's little wonder I've been so off-kilter.
Life is very busy... busier than I'd like. Things get moved off the to-do list, shoved to the back of the line, to make room for the most pressing and noisiest of tasks. Regardless, stitching is going to have to be one of those things that is always on the list. It just has to.
In late 2013 I was poised and ready to make the leap into full-time art. My youngest would soon be in school and I had a plan in place to make a real financial impact by working in my chosen craft. Then life laughed and winked, and threw us some curves which necessitated my going to work outside the home. I ended up in a job as an arts administrator, one I'm proud of and often humbled by.
It's worthy work, but work that often drains me, physically and creatively.
So it becomes even more important that I keep up with the practice of self-care which for me includes time in the woods, stitching, family, and working towards that goal of being a full time artist, even if it's years away.
I'm starting by committing to 10 days of stone-stitching. No matter how busy or tired I am, I will stitch at least 1 stone every day for the next 10 days. At the end I'll have a shop update and a giveaway. I hope you'll be here to celebrate with me.
Day 1's stone seems to have taken its theme from my dandelion-covered yard.
Wish me luck, friends.
10 comments:
Oh, indeed! Good luck, Lisa. I am sure you will get there. Have had to face some similar curve-balls myself. I know what a challenge that is. The resulting path may a be a good deal windier but I know you'll get there. xx
Here is a hefty dose of LUCK, just for you. Your work is magical. I learned a long, long time ago that if I did not set aside special time, however rarely, to work on my pursuits, that it would never happen. I laughingly would call it "shields up time!" I imagined invisible shields isolating me from the stress and worries of daily life. Good for you, you recognized this need early. Have fun.
Good Luck Lisa! I have been struggling with a similar dilemma. My full time position started 1 1/2 years ago but in the area of finance, which meets my preference of being a 180 from art. I love the interaction with people but am trying to learn how to balance a day job with my art career. It has taken 1 1/2 years just to get my full artistic mojo back. Now, I can begin working out a pliable schedule for my off hours.
It's a little ironic. When I had time, I had very little financial backing. Now I have the finances and very little time. :)
So happy to hear your plan, and commitment to dedicate time to your artworks! I know for me, creating has taken a back seat to so many other, practical things, I am sometimes surprised to remember that it was a huge part of my life for many, many years. As the saying goes: Don't let this happen to you!
Looking forward to seeing all ten "days" :)
The best of luck to you, Lisa, and may your dreams come true much sooner than you expect.
Hugs.
Yes, making time for yourself is necessary, stone or not. Don't ever forget about yourself, ok ? xoxo
Have fun and enjoy yourself! I'm not sure there is ever a "perfect" way for everything to work out...it's all about balance and compromise but finding time to be creative is a very important part of that balance! Can't wait to see what you create :)
Starting off slow is how I did it with my #40DaysofTaLent and then deciding I could do a #365project. I pat you on the back, give you a hug and put a needle in your hand. Go forth and art, my friend. :)
Good Luck, Lisa!! If anyone can juggle all that you do and make Art every day it is you!! I have faith in you. <3 <3 <3 8*)
Thanks scrapiana, I didn't know you were having similar struggles. Wishing you all the best.
celkalee - I like the visual of the shields up. Thanks for sharing.
Brenda - oh that Murphy and his luck.
Quinn - thanks for sharing your experience. I don't want that to happen to me, but I recognize how easily it could.
Thanks Estella!
Thanks Sweet Zonia! xo
Thanks Mousy. That balance stuff is tricky business, for sure.
Heather - Thanks for blazing the path!
Thank you Melissa. xo
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