How's that for a view out of a window:) It's been a tad bit chilly here to say the least, but the frost that formed on the window was so beautiful, the kind of beauty that only nature can create. Although I'm not so sure it's good to have frost on the inside! So here we are, January of 2009, a time to reflect on the past year and plan for this year. A long time ago I stopped making resolutions, they're the kiss of death for me-never ever work. But a concept for the year, or a plan, or maybe even a word to live by-now that I can handle. Tammy had posted about a word for the year, an idea that came from Christine Kane's blog, and then a couple of days later in another post she said "I wish to only do new things and/or to repeat only things which are bringing positive energy into my life." Within this post, she included a link to a blog that I hadn't been to before, and boy have I been missing out! It's Ancient Artist:Developing an art career after 50 and in this post the author, Sue Favinger Smith said, "We have a choice. Live on Purpose." Are you still with me, there's a point to all this which I"m getting to in my normal round about way. Then last night as I was trying to get caught up reading emails, I read a post from Leah's Creative Every Day blog, where she included a link to a blog that has a list of questions, that if answered could potentially help each of us guide ourselves through 2009, once again living with a purpose. I'll be putting those questions and my answers to them in my journal now, and again next December, so that I'll be sure not to forget to reflect, see how I did, and begin planning for the following year. But now I'm jumping the gun a bit, so have to back up. First I had chosen 2 words for myself for the year (even though it was advised to choose only one-never been very good at following directions) and those words were "awareness" and "choice" which I then put into a phrase for myself for the year, "know that I have choices and to be aware of them". Kind of sounds a little like Sue Smith's "We have a choice. Live on Purpose." quote, doesn't it? I'm a firm believer in the fact that these kinds of things happen for a reason, so I'm sticking to my phrase that I chose, and I'm also going to LIVE ON PURPOSE. Life can be way too short and I've had my fair share of close calls, and life is what you make of it. Yes, things happen, I'm well aware of that, but I'm the one that's responsible for the choices that I make and I need to be aware of everything around me, aware and in awe of all that surrounds me, especially the little things that we tend to overlook, like that frost on the window.
I've started journaling again (should have some photos tomorrow) and plan on keeping at it all year. I've said that every year for a long time but it always felt like I was taking time to do play and not do other stuff. So this year I'm working on it at times when I wouldn't be in the studio anyway, as I prefer to work only in natural light. And I'm already seeing the benefits of it, a chance to try out new colors, practice techniques, both old & new, and finally a good place for me to sketch. It's undecided at this point if it'll end up being mostly a visual journal or a written one, probably a combination of both. And to help jumpstart this and to be accountable for it, I've joined in on Misty's group of January Art Journalers-come join in! And another place to be is Leah's Creative Everyday blog, a no pressure place that just makes you be and think creatively every day, as intended. Which remindws me, I need to get the new badge for this year in the sidebar. Once again, I'm entering the year with good intentions and perhaps lofty goals, but if I just stick to my basic phrase, I'll be ok. Not much new to report on the medical front, except last week the doc told me I had to give myself 10 more of those damn belly shots, hopefully that will be it. At my last blood draw, my numbers were right on the money and if they're still there on Wednesday when I go for more bloodwork, I should be heading in the right direction, whew. Now I just have to quit worrying about it and get on with life, but I have to admit that everytime I feel something in that leg, I have to wonder if that blood clot is moving around! Once again, I talked too much, big surprise:) So I'll leave you with a picture of the beach in Algoma. You've seen plenty of them in the summer, but this winter view is enough to send chills down your spine just looking at it:) It's cool though, no pun intended, to see how that landscape changes so drastically. So tell me-what's new with all of you? Were the holidays good for you? I really want to know!
omg - just came to say my email to you bounced and saw these gorgeous photos )no time to read but I love that photos go directly into the brain - no time required. I'll be back! (the frost pictures are awesome!)
Posted by: Tammy Vitale | January 05, 2009 at 02:00 PM
Hey darlin!
LOVE the pics!!! And I also have a word to follow this year...."simplicity". That word to me is so "peaceful & tranquil", which is what I need in my life right now.
I too have been horrible about keeping an art journal...don't seem to get the time or at least take the time. I am hoping to start one soon...and try to keep it up. Maybe I'll pop over to some of those blogs you talked about to help me "jumb start" my journal.
Have a beautiful week and glad to hear you are getting better!
xo...deb
Posted by: deb | January 05, 2009 at 11:42 PM
Hi Sue ~ thank you for the mention. When it's the dead of winter, it's energy like yours that keeps the sun shining! Enjoyed your blog and will take time with your Etsy shop, too. Take care.
Sue Favinger Smith
Posted by: Sue Smith | January 06, 2009 at 11:09 AM
What a super post Sue, both in wise words and gorgeous pictures. So great to hear those blood numbers are spot on...HURRAH!! xox
Posted by: Linda Warlyn | January 07, 2009 at 01:14 PM
It's me again! Just wanted to let you know that I changed my blog address! http://thejunkinyaya.blogspot.com
come visit when you get a chance! xo...deb
Posted by: deb | January 07, 2009 at 09:25 PM
ach! my email bounced again today (1/8)
Posted by: tammy vitale | January 08, 2009 at 10:44 AM
Fabulous photos and you are so right about nature being the best designer, the greatest artist... Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Kathleen | January 10, 2009 at 01:50 PM
WOW!! Awesome photos!!!
Posted by: Debbie Overton | January 11, 2009 at 12:10 PM
You photos are awesome..and those on the glass, we who could create such beauty for us to admire but God!! It's been a pleasure reading your posts...Blessings!! Bevie
Posted by: Beverly A Sams | January 12, 2009 at 11:51 AM
Wonderful post - hope all is well with you! My word for the year is going to continue to be "believe" :)
Posted by: cheesehead with sticks | January 12, 2009 at 01:24 PM