Good Life

Hello, everyone. Thanks for stopping by to read my watercolor blog again this month. I really appreciate you and your support. A very special thank you to those who have been brave enough to leave a comment of support. I really appreciate it.

This month I’m sharing with you a painting that I love. One day while I was walking in Mendocino, California, I happened to follow this lady and her dog. I was so captivated by the joy in her step. She was obviously enjoying herself fully. I could imagine her filling her lungs with the fresh coastal air, her mind clearing, her joy returning once again for life.

The fact that this all happened under the sign for the Good Life Bakery made the experience all the more memorable. I simply was compelled to paint this image. This is the way Mendocino makes me feel, and I know I’m so not alone in that feeling. The air is so crisp and fresh, the flowers bloom with joy, and the quaintness and charm of the village frames the sea in a way that fills the soul.

There’s the Blair House in all it’s white, statuesque beauty.

There are many wonderful places to eat in very charming settings.

And there are lots of charming stores to poke around in and enjoy.

May is a very special month, and this painting symbolizes the joy I feel. This month is also special in that not only do I get to celebrate Mother’s Day with everyone else, but I get to celebrate my birthday and my anniversary as well.

Vern and I just celebrated 31 years together. I am a very blessed woman to have had this man by my side all of these years. He has been my safe harbor, and he is the kindest human I know. I would never have pursued watercolor without his constant support and delight.

We are lucky to live very close to Mendocino. With just a quick drive, we are in this enchanting village and get to celebrate our moments together at an evening dinner under twinkling lights, a stroll along the headlands, spread out a blanket on the beach and soak in some rays, or enjoy a breakfast with a seaside view at a bed and breakfast or a quaint hotel.

THE GOOD LIFE

In discussing art this month, I want to encourage you to be brave, take heart, make the leap. It’s time to purchase those paints and take the time to do something you’ve always wanted to try. What do you have to lose? Over 20 years ago now, that’s what I did. I felt very bold and inexperienced at the same time.

I’d like to offer you the book “The Artist’s Way.” This book by Julia Cameron is available at most bookstores. It’s a kind of workbook/devotional/artist’s manual. It styles itself as “A course in Discovering and Recovering Your Creative Self. A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity.”

This book will really help you unlock your potential as an adult artist. If you are feeling intimidated or insecure about attempting art, this is the book for you. This book was given to me by a friend many years ago. I’ve cherished this gift. The main takeaway for me was “SHOW UP ON THE PAGE.” You have to be willing to try to make any progress.

This is what has worked for me. I refuse to be intimidated. I will show up on the page. No matter the result of my attempts, it is progress. I have been absolutely surprised and delighted how even the most simple artwork has charm and the ability to delight.

“When the soul wishes to experience something, she throws an image of the experience out before her and enters into her own image.”

— Meister Eckhart

I want to encourage you in your artistic pursuits. Even if you are an experienced artist, you have days of doubt and, in watercolor, mud. LOL. There is no way to get better at anything than to practice. I’m here to help you if I can be of support to you in any way.