Freedom, art, and the magic of beginnings

“And suddenly you know: It’s time to start something new and trust the magic of beginnings” Meister Eckhart 

I love the shifting seasons (hello, fresh start and cooler weather!), and always use the season markers as an excuse to reflect back. I was happy then to receive the most beautiful reminder of what it is to take a journey right before the equinox.

Here was my reminder, via Facebook:

Love.

There are days when I feel like I’ve been on this path forever, others when I feel like I’ve just begun. Thank you Universe for the reminder that at the core of everything we’re all simply seeking joy and freedom.

I’m feeling major gratitude for my younger self and the decision three years ago to just begin. What followed that beginning has set my heart and life in motion in so many unexpected ways.

Trust the magic of beginnings.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

We’ve started work on the next batch of animal prints – here’s a handful of test prints before we edit the colors, the white border size around the image, etc. Each print I offer goes through extensive editing to make sure the colors are vibrant enough and that they closely match the original painting.

I’ve also continued to paint my monthly sticker project! I sneak in 10 minutes here or there whenever I can but lately I’ve been so exhausted after Isaac goes to bed – he’s spending more of the day awake and now much of the night as well which equals less rest for this mama. Slow but steady.

Here’s month 8:

Slow or not, I’m happy with the progress I’ve made. Eric and I had no idea what to expect from this year with our little guy, and each day is amazing and also so very challenging. Isaac has been changing SO much lately as he gets closer to four months and he’s hilarious and so sweet and incredibly sensitive. He can really see at a distance now, which is fascinating to watch, and he’s discovering his hands for the first time this week.

Here he is in a recent photo:

In the midst of so much change, my art has been a steadying force to keep me grounded. I’m thankful for the sticker project that’s kept me dreaming and filled my well for the days when I’ve felt too stretched to function properly. I’ll always look back on this project as a key contributor to my happiness (and sanity!) as I made the journey into motherhood.

So here’s to beginnings, of course, but also here’s to the relationships, projects, and dreams that help us stay true to the core of who we are.

Have a beautiful day!

With love,