“Autumn Harvest” by Annie Dash Studios, 16×12″ watercolor on paper
“I’m so glad I live in world where there are Octobers.” – L.M. Montgomery
October is my favorite month of the year. The crispness in the air, the vibrant colors of the earth and sky, the start of school and projects, all lead to a feeling of renewal and hope. A sense of new beginnings and opportunities. My birthday month, a time when I look at how far I’ve come and where I’m going, October fills me with gratitude and joy.
One October day, exactly 8 years ago, when my oldest child was in preschool, we were leaving a field trip to a local farm. I was awestruck by an incredible scene as we drove up on the hill and could see down into the sloping pumpkin patch below. Here’s what I saw:
I thought this was such a remarkable scene and I had always planned to make a finished work of art from it — but truth be told, it took a number of years for that work to be completed. I had many competing demands for my time — children and family, client work, and a number of other priorities came before my art and creative practice. Plus, I will admit that I had some art blocks that kept me from pursuing my love of the fine arts.
I have since learned that making time for creativity means making time for joy. I can’t fully experience and process life without the joys of the arts — for me, that includes painting, drawing, photography, design, cooking, and singing. For others, it could be dance, instrumental music, interior design, gardening, cake decorating, scrapbooking, quilting, woodworking, sewing, and many others. Some are awestruck by the wonders of nature and even if they aren’t compelled to create something from what they see, they are able to appreciate the beauty around them with the eyes of an artist.
Today, I encourage you to make time for the creative practices and experiences that you love the most. Even if it’s just a moment, stop and savor the beauty of this
October day. It’s truly a special, awe-inspiring time of the year.
My question for you: what’s your favorite creative or artistic practice? Please be sure to comment below — I’d love to hear from you!
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I love seeing your creative process and hearing stories form your family. As of now, as you probably know, my favorite practice is nature photography. Love seeing the way you take your photography to new artistic realms.
Thank you, Kristine! I appreciate your kind words and insights. Your nature photography is absolutely stunning, and I love your new website– you do beautiful work!!