twodressesstudio

Monday morning and I am hoping to make some progress this week in blogging, artwork, wrapping up details from the CHA show, get my newsletter finished and start on some new tutorials I promised using Craft Attitude to share with the art blogging community.

I spent last week reorganizing after I had literally pulled apart my studio and parts of our home to accomodate the large canvases I was creating.  It wasn't pretty and I was noticing how often I was distracted as I tripped around heaps of paper, etc.  not to mention the ' visual chaos'!    Slowly things are getting reordered and I'm adding  several new storage compartments to organize the growing number of  supplies, paints, papers...well, you name it, ...STUFF.   This has taken some time to come to fruition as I  wait until I can get a 40% off coupon at Michael's to buy the "Recollections" modular shelving units.  They are affordable and if I splash some media on them, I won't be too upset.

 Maybe I am trying to rationalize that if I'm organized, then I can't be labelled a hoarder!  The above collage  is a composite of some of the work-in-progress as I reorganize, like my personal "cabinet of curiousities".  Some may call it a variation on a junk drawer, but each little knick-knack has  personal meaning to me, usually a good memory of a friend or a time in my life.

Another goal I have to work on is how I will 'give back' this year.   I have a few ideas about charitable work, how I can contribute, or 'make a difference' , however small.   I am open to ideas and would love to hear your thoughts on 'giving back', or "paying it forward."

I know I woke up this morning thinking "I have it all" - I am so grateful for my life.   I really feel blessed.

Before the holidays in December one of my dearest artist friends sent me the image below.  I now have it framed and hanging next to the kitchen sink as a reminder.  I hope it brings a smile to your face and that somehow today, I've made a teeny little difference in your life by sharing it as she did in mine.  Thanks for this Linda.

What are your plans today?