My Rude Awakening

I've been pretty isolated this past year because of health issues.  With lots of rest, there has also been much introspection with the slowing down, as well healing and renewed strength.
​Now that my world is opening up again - artist receptions, live meetings, dinners out, friends over, swim parties, real coffee chats - I've been totally gobsmacked!*

Being a working artist requires a ton of solitude!

Did you all know that?  So how did I make it this far being so uninformed. I guess that's why, when my life was so busy, my average time to complete a painting was measured in years. Now I'm applying to galleries that want to see 100s of my paintings. That requires a whole lot of time. Yah - I haven't had any mysterious creatures in the middle of the night paint for me! 

I've had to embrace a new lifestyle of solitude. I'm thankful to be living my dream. Even if it involves a lot of being alone with my imagination. Putting in the hours in my studio. Causing me to miss out on the activities I used to be so busy with and the people who have been such a blessing in my life.  It's been quite the awakening.  But I'm willing to make the changes as I become aware of them.

I've heard it said, "Growing things change." I like that perspective. It's not that we intend to make life more complicated. It's just that sometimes we need to consider the changes we need to make to get where we want to go. Change is healthy and, though it's not always easy, it's a sign of life.

I'd love to hear about some of the change you're embracing in your life. You can click on the comments below.

*gobsmacked - utterly astonished; astounded (British). Ok. So I love Downton Abbey.

---