Bears and self-care

“It is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world” Mary Oliver 

Oh friends, these past few weeks have been such a challenge. We’ve had two big family emergencies, I had a health scare, and Eric’s school schedule sped up incredibly before one of his final presentations this week. I’ve been completely overwhelmed but trying to keep life as normal as possible for our little guy.

And yet: we’ve now entered Spring, warmer weather is getting closer each day, and I’ve made a new and solid commitment to take care of myself (something I really haven’t done since becoming a mom). I’ve tried to keep art close especially through all the recent struggle, but instead of painting in my studio it’s looked a lot more like collaborating with Isaac while he colors:

I also managed to do some quick sketches last week and they continue to make me smile. I’m working at refining my style and that means trying lots of different approaches to see what feels best. The trick, especially during the past few weeks, has been to keep sketching without thinking too much about it or worrying if I don’t like a sketch:

Life has so many phases (hello, SPRING!) and I know that while these weeks have called on me to dial back and take care of myself and my family, I will also return to art-making soon. In the meantime, Isaac and I have gone outside, we’ve spent lots of time with family, and I’ve actually started taking care of my body again (lots more water and exercise, less sugar, more veggies and sleep).

Do something nice for yourself today! Give a hug, go on a walk, share your love with someone who could use it, and enjoy Spring’s fresh new start.