Beginning my journey

In June, I went to an art workshop in Carbondale. It was supposed to be a plein air art workshop and hike. I wasn't sure what to expect. I just know that I needed some space, fresh air, creativity, and peace. My life has spiraled out of control over the last six months or so, and I needed to figure out how to get back on track.

My husband was accommodating. We took the popup trailer, our daughter, and our little dog, and left late on Friday evening, and slept through a storm to wake to rain and a canceled art class. I got up and ran, we had breakfast, and we spent time together as a family. It was already starting out to be a lovely weekend. The workshop was rescheduled for the next day, so I got up early and headed out. I met up with about 9 other women and Sarah Uhl, the workshop leader.

We started in her studio, which was in itself, an inspiration. I loved siting in the small brick building - finally giving myself space to be creative. We left the warmth and comfort of the small building to hike up to Thomas Lakes just at the base of Mt. Sopris.

I loved Mt. Sopris. A beautiful mountain overlooking Carbondale.

We hiked a lot, and we didn't paint as much as I would have liked. HOWEVER!! I made connections with some of the other women, and we did a silent hike where we were to meditate and breathe and be completely present. WOW! It was truly powerful for me to walk through this beautiful and magical aspen grove. I could feel my soul being filled just during that walk. I could see children's books, I could see my paintings starting to flow through me, I could feel the forest all around me.

We made it to Thomas Lakes, and we all sat down for lunch and settled in to paint. It was good weather when we got there, but then it gradually got worse. I was still able to get a painting done.

I was getting used to the tools, finding my style, learning the colors, and the water. I loved the possibilities.

Unfortunately, it did start snowing, so we all packed up and headed back out. We didn't stop again on the way down, but the weather did clear up. And, I left with inspiration, my soul beginning to heal, and trying to find a way to give myself this time and space to be creative.

Since the workshop in June, I have found any little bit of time that I can to paint. I found pictures on my phone, pictures on the internet, and even gone outside to do plein air painting to continue this process.

The reason I'm blogging is to learn from my mistakes, track my progress, and share my experiences to hopefully inspire others.

My last painting is below. I'll post once a week, and my goal is to fill my journal by the end of the summer.