Every Day Matters #100 Landscape

I didn't have a digital camera to take a photo back when I was on TOP of Yosemite Falls, since there was no such thing as digital cameras back when I was 16! I know I'm aging myself. I used an uncopywritten photo from the net to paint from. The photo doesn't do it justice nor does my watercolor - but it was amazing to be at the top of this waterfall. The hike down is 135 switchbacks so I don't recommend it to anyone who's not in shape. I couldn't do it now! But it's a good memory for me :-) Maybe one day I'll be able to handle this hike again because it's a good symbol of what Yosemite is for me: wonderful places that are away from the throngs of people. The majesty of this Park is something that I shared with my own husband and children, so the legacy of those mentors from my 16th summer lives on.

An Award

I'd like to give Shirley a big thanks for giving this award to those of us newbies who, as she said, have been brave enough to share some of our work. Here's the original email:

I received two lovely blog awards this week and now must pass them along. Thank you Clare and Lisa. I would like to give them in turn to all of the new EDM members who were brave enough to stop lurking and share some of their work with us. So head on over to my blog and pick up your award.<http://www.paperand threads.com> You should then post it on your blog (you can right click on the image, save the award, and upload it to your blog).I joined EDM in September 2005 - and everything I know about sketching, watercolors, and visual journaling comes from the inspiration and instruction that I get from our members. Thank you all....Shirley

The rules of acceptance are:
1. Put the logo on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3. Nominate 7 other blogs.
4. Add links to those blogs on yours.
5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs.

I'll make sure to do all of these!

EDM #133 Draw a peach (or two)

This exercise was a stretch for me since I started with watercolors first - instead of my usual manner of drawing with pencil, lining over the pencil, and then adding the watercolors. This often results in me feeling like I'm a grown-up doing a coloring book! Hence, the need to stretch my abilities.

While I was doing this, the phone kept ringing, other commitments kept "calling", and a man stopped by to give me an estimate on replacing the roof on the house. I think the clutter in my life is reflected in this painting - but I wanted to post it anyway to remind myself (again) that everything doesn't have to be perfect. Intellectually, I know this. Now, I am waiting for my emotions to catch up.

Having said that, I do like the peach and soft violet colors together. About a year ago, I made a bracelet with these colors out of Swarovski crystal. Hmmmm.. that gives me an idea for future exercises: explore color and what combinations appeal to my eye.

"Hello Mindy"

Sometimes I just think too much. When I drew my water brush, I was wondering WHY I was drawing it. Then, I realized that's the point of Everyday Matters. I need to stop thinking so much and just enjoy the process, even when my results are less than perfect. I want the freedom to just create, enjoy, and learn.

I've decided that my art brings me joy, so why do I resist it at times?

hmmm, this makes me think of a 12 step program. "Hello. My name is Mindy and I'm a perfection-holic." "Hello, Mindy."

Sandwich Generation

As I wrap my brain around the fact that my mother really can't take care of herself, I'm facing the reality that she needs to live with us. I've seen this time coming for the last couple years and I watched my mother-in-law go through the same thing 4 years ago. I drew this picture of a sandwich since it's what I've heard my generation called - kids moving out of the home while parent(s) move in. The emotional side of me wants to run and hide, knowing this isn't going to be easy - but the rational part of my brain knows that she can't do this for herself - AND it's not fair to her neighbors to have to do *my job*. I love my mom and I want her to have the chance to live the winter of her life in dignity. Now, if she'll just accept that she can't do this for herself.....