Let spirits soar

The snow is falling. Quietly falling.

I awoke to six inches of new snow and it continues to dance down in large beautiful flakes. It clings to everything, every branch, every object. I love the interesting shapes it creates, transforming shrubs and evergreens into magnificent works of art! My garden bench is always a particular favorite. With every snow fall and partial melting in between, it becomes an evolving work of art. The snow shapes left behind and the new snow added collects on the rails and slats in new and interesting patterns each time. I could stare out the window all day...

Black-capped chickadees take turns at the bird-feeders. The green gazebo shaped one is their favorite. I love the way the snow cones up high on its roof. In and out they go. The tufted titmouse joins in their feasting. Aside from the continuous falling snow, theirs is the only movement.

A day of calm and serenity awaits. My spirit rests. After the recent difficult news our family has received, a day of rest is is needed and welcomed. I'll start a fire in the wood stove. The warm heat will add to the day's peacefulness, relaxing the body to its core.

I will paint.

My "children at the beach" series needs my attention. They sit dry, calling to be added to. Dripping new layers of paint will be healing. I chuckle at the contrast with the day. Pure white snow and cold temperatures versus oceans of color on a warm beach day. Its exactly what my spirit needs. Don't you just love dates with your easel? In the calmness, I'll let my creativity soar.

Pictured is Marching, a finished painting in this series. I have many to go to be ready with inventory for my galleries this year. I think painting is the best job someone could have. Today is a holiday, but I choose to go work on my day off...

I wish you moments to let your spirit soar, no matter how heavy life may feel. Those precious days of calm and peacefulness are a gift to be embraced. Go embrace yours with whatever makes you feel good!

Roof Windows

My studio has roof windows. What an awesome way to have light pouring into your work space! I was surprised how different the light was coming from above as opposed to vertical windows. Even when its raining, there's ample light to work from. They're quite amazing.

I really like my roof windows.

A multiple-day snow storm finally ended yesterday. We got about a foot of the heavy white stuff. Though beautiful and inspiring, it plays havoc with my "light from above". My studio doesn't become totally dark. Light still filters in through all that snow. But painting with natural light becomes impossible. So out I go to clear the snow...

Luckily my roof comes down low...

At the beginning of the season, it isn't a hard job to tackle. Some years the level of the snow is over the roof's edge and it becomes a different story. But no matter how difficult the snow removal job is I always go let my precious light in.

I can't quite reach the top ones, but get my wood stove cranking and the rest will slide off.

Today the light will be perfect for painting!

So if you find yourself with snow on your rooftop or cobwebs in your attic, don't let it block out your light. Always remember light from above is always the best light, so don't be afraid to let it in...

(Photographs by Michael McAllister)

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