5.21.2009

Sneak Peek


I knew I would be too anxious to share.
I'll post a group photo (set of six) after the opening.

5.20.2009

On My Desk

I feel I am not the only person who needs a deadline to be motivated enough to begin a project. (or finish a project.) I have to say, I had this idea for the "Trash to Treasure" show two years ago. And, the motivation to begin it yesterday... the deadline to drop off the work is this Sunday. Originally I thought I would paper mache the containers and paint with acrylic, but I've decided to just wrap them with watercolor paper and paint with watercolor. I don't know if I will post the finished piece before the show? It could be such a spectacular unveiling. Why spoil it? A watercolor matryoshka made out of garbage? I'm guessing this is probably the only one world-wide? 

After having shot this photo this afternoon, I am even more excited about lugging my work desk out of the basement for the summer sun-room studio.

I think I will include a copy of this black and white photo for the show. And, when listing materials used I think I will spell it all out: oatmeal box, cornmeal box, salt box, baking powder can, paper towel tube, mini-m&m container.

5.08.2009

Fast Forward 10 Years.


I was inspired to start running 10 years ago (almost 11) when I was 7 or 8 months pregnant with Maya. I did not start running at that moment of inspiration, of course. I felt so huge and completely disabled. I started noticing every jogger on the street and was determined to run as soon as I was able. After Maya was born I vowed that I would start off slow and walk everyday (about 2 miles) to take off the extra weight, but more importantly to give myself a break. I needed to step away momentarily from the feeling of being overwhelmed with the immense responsibility of motherhood. I did not walk with Maya, I walked away from the house so that I could be alone. This photo was taken from one of the few times I put on the Snugli. Even then I worried. . . was it too hot outside for her? was her head was bobbing too much? was her neck was strong enough? was she was going to spit up along the way? was I going to have to walk home drenched in puke?

I used to hold this tiny baby in my arms and worry if I would be a good mother. Could I teach her to be a kind and happy person? Could I help her live up to her full potential? Could I keep her safe from the crazy world out there?

I looked forward to the day that she would be big enough and strong enough to maybe ride her bike along side me while I jogged. I thought by then, I wouldn't be so stressed out and worried about motherhood and wouldn't feel the need to momentarily escape. I thought, by this time I would know if I was was doing an okay job as a mother.

We've arrived at and surpassed that goal. It was Maya that really inspired me to start jogging again. She was on the track team this Spring, so I asked her if she wanted to jog a mile and a half with me around the neighborhood. I was so out of shape. I had not run in 7 months. I ended up telling her "go as fast as you want, but leave your watch running so you can tell me my time when I get home." She ran it in 15:05. I stumbled in at almost 18 minutes.

I have renewed my interest in jogging, and I've jogged almost every day since then. Each day I have shaved a little time off that 18 minutes. Yesterday I was down to 15:40. Maya is happy and encouraging me, but let me know if we raced - she would win. We plan on trying that soon. I told her she would probably beat me, but best of all, we would both run a lot faster if we raced.

It's hard to believe 10 years have passed so quickly. This little one has taught me a lot. She has challenged me and made me a stronger person.

5.03.2009

The best of spring.


The lilies and hostas I moved last weekend are looking lovely. Now that the weather is warm, the kids are able to occupy themselves for longer periods of time. Quite a relief after a long winter. It's so good to open up the windows and let the fresh air in. I love walking out the door without a coat. And, I've finally taken up jogging again. I've exercised pretty consistently for the past 10 years, taking breaks for short periods of time over holidays or busy times. But, this past year has been bad. I ran a 5k last September and haven't picked up any routine since. That's 7 months! Proud to say I am starting small, but consistent. I've jogged a mile and a half 10 out of the last 11 days. Slow. But a little faster each time. My next goal - painting small but consistent. Not much going on there lately.