Last month I promised myself change. Change for my better self. I’ve taken back control of my artistic soul and I’m on a new path to freedom: freedom of expression.
I have all the things I need to “get going” again. My art studio is equipped, my supplies are getting replenished, and my muses have shown up. Nothing excites me more than new art supplies; whether it’s new paint, brushes or mixing mediums. When my mail order tells me an expected delivery date, I expect it to arrive on that designated date. So when my latest shipment was pushed back a few more days, this lioness paced restlessly in her den until Fed Ex arrived. Even for my illustrating husband, waiting for a new color pencil can be torture. Us Leos can only be so patient.
BLICK Art Materials is our “go to” for art supplies. Our closest location is in Sugar House, Utah, just 32 minutes from home. We don’t get there very often, so when we do, we’re like two kids in a candy store. We stock up on what ever we need to create our children’s books.
Do you have an inner dream that you’ve put on the back burner? Is your talent being suppressed? Life is busy, yes, I get that. There was a time in my life when I was working three jobs. You heard me right. I felt stifled and lost because “I didn’t have time” in my days to be my creative self. Art is my God given talent and I wasn’t using it.
One day I was at one of those huge outdoor events, I think it was Strawberry Days. I came across an older woman who was painting a picture. I stopped to admire her work and she asked me if I painted. I told her, “I used to.” She asked me why I stopped. I don’t know exactly what I said next, for at the time my life was a turbulent mess. But I will never forget what she said to me. “When your life settles down and you find yourself, you will paint again.” It was some years later, but she was right. I wish I could thank her for seeing in me what I, at that time, couldn’t see in myself.
So for all of you that have that one thing you’re passionate about, I say, don’t follow your dream, CHASE IT! Find your passion and don’t be afraid to pursue it. What makes you happy? Love yourself first, and happiness will follow. I knew nothing about writing children’s books until I pursued the thought of it. Now I have two published books and the third on the way. And that makes me happy.
Until next time, happy soul searching and God bless!
Skip’s mom, Cb
Some of Tim’s illustrations for the next book
One of my creations ready for paint
What I get excited about!
Ready for paint
Basket of Hearts for Valentine’s Day
My Valentine porch
Who says you have to go out for a good Valentine’s dinner?