Finding My Rhythm

This is one of those years where I find myself casting about for a root to hold on to. I got so far behind when I left country for a month and now in 2 weeks I go again. My journal is the thread that holds me here. And the online class that I just taught which was such a joy. I had to be completely present for that. 

I made this little book to take to Spain, thinking I could work small in it. Little sketches. Little collages. To see if I could say it without words. And then I couldn't resist beginning to work in it. At this rate I'll have it filled before I leave.

If that happens I'll have to make another book. 

I have so much to say.

I'm trying to figure out what to take to Spain. I've decided on paper, paint, wax, maybe plaster. Well, I can get the plaster there. And I bought a new suitcase. If it's big enough. We'll see.

I'm using lots of tea bags in this book. 

Every morning I pull out my little book and a new idea pops into my head. Scissors. Glue stick. Tape.

Go. It's just for me. For my enjoyment. I teach others not to work for approval and then I find myself working for approval. Well, not this time.

My safe boat.

Have I ever told you about my protective bubble? I can do that when I'm afraid. Cast a protective bubble over myself and hunker down. In the bottom of the boat. 

Hanging on the lip of the mystery.

In other news John got some good test results from his doctor. Since going on a vegan diet his cholesterol has dropped from 278 to 182. The LDL (lousy part) from 188 to 123. And Triglicerides from 249 to 98. That takes him from stroke and heart attack country to a safer place altogether. 

It amazes me that doctors put you right on statin drugs without telling you that changing your diet can achieve the same results and save you a lot of money. Plus John's lost about 25 lbs. So the only down side is that you have to buy smaller clothes. I did that this week too. 

Big Announcement!!!!!

 I'll be traveling to Wilmington, North Carolina this fall to teach a journaling class in the studio of Kim Beller of Big Strong Girl Designs. I'm super excited about this class for several reasons. First of all, it's going to be fabulous; one or two days as you choose and in a beautiful studio where we can share time and space with each other in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Secondly, because John is coming with me and thirdly because I've never had the opportunity of teaching or even visiting the southern part of the country and it's been on my bucket list forever.

Please please please come and join us for what promises to be a really great experience. Here is a link to all the information. Kim and I have had our heads together and we are going to make this really fun for you.

Now for a quick trip through the garden. 

We have sugar peas ...

Varieties of pepper ...

Varieties of tomatoes ...

and tulips and plum blossoms! The season turns again to new beginnings and baby lambs; hope and faith is renewed and the earth is green and new. I hope you feel in good spirits whether you are experiencing spring or fall; the circle of the seasons is one of the enduring blessings and mysteries of life. Get out and breathe it all in. ((hug))