Inspiration Part 2

For the last 25 years my family has been spending part of every summer in a cottage on the shores of Sabbathday Lake in Maine.  Over the years things have changed, as the owner has updated and added on to the property.  But the beauty of the lake and the joy of spending days under the protective arms of the guardian tree never change.  Until now.

Two weeks before we left home a mighty storm blew through Maine.  A lightening bolt hit our tree and this 135 year old masterpiece exploded in a rain of wood and needles.  Luckily, it fell into the lake and not onto our cottage.  For this we are thankful.  But, still, it is hard to get used to the exposure, and I miss it everyday.  This tree has inspired me for 25 years.  My creative challenge is to continue drawing inspiration from my surroundings and it’s changes.

Inspiration Part 1

The day I have been thinking about all year is finally here....it’s time to go strawberry picking!  There are so many things that I love about being in a strawberry field.   The warmth of the sun on my back and a cool breeze in my face.  Turning over the leaves and finding a big, juicy red berry.  Hearing that satisfying “snap” as the berry is picked from the bush. Looking up at the clear, blue sky of a Maine summer’s morning.  Once I get started with the picking it is hard to stop, as I pile berries into my overflowing bowl.  I am already thinking about the strawberry shortcake we are going to eat for dessert.

These are the kind a memories that become inspiration.

Crafting For A Cause

 Yesterday I made some new crafty friends. Robin, of CitySisters , organized an afternoon of making Valentines to give to people at a local hospice. Everyone brought supplies, tools and brilliant ideas. It was fun to chat with people and watch the creation of so many different Valentines. With scrapbook paper, stickers, buttons, feathers, ribbons and more we felt the LOVE.

HOLIDAY HOME SHOW

Four women, seated in a room, looking at each other. "What have we gotten ourselves into? " we each were thinking. After weeks of planning and preparation, the hour had arrived, but there was no one knocking on our door. Had we miscalculated the interest of our friends and family?


But then, one person arrived. And then another. And before we knew it the house was full and we were BUSY.

I am talking about the Home Show and Holiday Sale that I participated in with 3 other artist friends. There were two photographers, a mosaicist/stained glass artist and I displayed beaded jewelry, notecards, and watercolor paintings both framed and unframed. We served snacks and drinks and invited all our local friends and acquaintances. Rita graciously offered her lovely home and it made a wonderful show space. For two afternoons last weekend we chatted with old friends, made new friends and met some interesting people. All the while our sales were exceeding our expectations. We ended the weekend on a high and started making plans to do it again next year. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the arts.