Crossroads seem to come and go

 Just an update on stuff and things

These are times of decisions, whether for work, safety, politics, lifestyles, all sorts of choices

Choices are important. Like crossroads, these options are what ticks away at the day, the week, whatever comes next. I have been thinking about what to make, how to sort the time, supplies, details and other bits.

In an effort to create happiness, it's helpful to have thought of what I want, what I like and how I might see things moving forward.  I try to stay focused on artwork. What i like are simple- color, composition, structure and input.

What i am distracted by will probably need to have some inclusion but some perimeters- real life expenses, being healthy and contributing as a participating community member. Its important to assess for what I can volunteer. Working in the non-profit community there are often things that should be done but don't have funds. It is rough to hear people who present themselves as art supporters asking for more donations, more "free" stuff, meaning as no cost to them, as though, as an artist, you don't qualify for the support as other professions.

Tricky and require both feet and clear eyes. I have mostly sorted it for  myself. I donate a certain amount of artwork for specific causes. I prefer to make a donation of cash, though, instead of seeing my artwork sold for less than a reasonable retail value. I prefer to donate time with causes that are not always part of my profession. It saves me from uncomfortable conversations and I really do like to volunteer when I can. I volunteer in pet rescue and adoption,  pet immunizations and spaying/neutering along with wildflower rescue and relocation. When I can, I help with early childhood reading and tutoring.

I have taken full advantage of the pandemic stay at home suggestions to 

• clear and brighten my space, which is always needed as I am always working,
• consider the changing of days, color of seasons and moments in a day
• observe how art is treated in the community

Having time to feel the earth turn, cool mornings creep into warm evenings, watch the plants reveal their growth and plan for shorter days is important for folks like me who need all the sunlight.

Try to be productive in your own terms, sustainable so it is not a struggle and creative within the community if it allows. or reaching the global community.

that is a lot

I want to tell everyone, if you want a contributing and sustainable creative community, make an investment. Everyone has their own talents and gifts. Take a workshop (pay and tip the presenter), buy gifts for others and for yourself, remember that supporting your community keeps funds in your neighborhoods, schools, economic workforce and builds some epic bonds with the everyday people in your life.

Off the soapbox but consider larger tips, buying things you can give away, buy things for yourself, enjoy more than life in a box. be sure to take walks, chat with pets, walk near flowers and be nice to your friends. 

While the stay at home situation has been an interruption and inconvenience, our air is cleaner, our books lists are shorter, our pets feel loved, families are keeping track of each other. 

Have a great autumn and enjoy the upcoming colors!