"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time." - John Lubbock, The Use of Life

After returning home from my FUN and successful show in Santa Fe, I find myself needing a well deserved break.  Although life continues on, I find the desire to get some unfinished projects done around my home, cleaning, repainting trim and doors - you know like the projects we put off until we just can't stand it anymore!

I have spent the last weeks also organizing and cleaning my studio which is deeply preparing me for new moments when I will feel refreshed and ready to get back to work.

I used to feel guilty when I took a few moments to myself or time off to play.  I am learning to be gentle with myself and realize that it is ok to take time for yourself, time to just be still, time to relax and enjoy moments of not always being on the go and working so hard.  I have come to realize that taking a break can be a relief of sorts.  As I take this short break I am fighting the urge to actually get back into the studio and in a way I am still living and breathing art!  I am looking through journals and notes and of course thinking and contemplating painting.

There are some new projects (my first collaboration piece with another artist that I admire) as well as new thoughts on color and texture that I plan to focus on once I do return to the studio.  I truly believe that taking this time to be still and contemplate my art and life may just lead me to where I go next.

Stay tuned.,.

                                                     "Fleeting" 48x38"  Oil/mixed media