I read my initial blog and can't believe how much time has passed since I repeated the sage words  "no time like the present".  

Someday is definitely here and I am busy painting again.  This past year has included some life changing events, and retiring from many years as a manager in luxury retail is one of them.  Before retiring, an unplanned open heart surgery took time away from everything, but through the genius of surgeons, I was able to return to work and continue with my painting.  I am truly blessed with another chance to make the best use of time and follow the advice of my physician - "make sure to do things that bring you joy".  Well, that's all I needed to hear!!!  I do keep in mind that doesn't include anything illegal, immoral or fattening. 

I am very fortunate to have a studio that opens onto a patio and garden in the cottage where I live on the Island.  I love the garden and when I'm not painting, that's where I can be found.  Music always in the background.  This Zen lifestyle suits me and enables the creative process to work without angst.  If painting gets frustrating because it's not working in the way intended (happens often), a few steps into the garden, pulling some weeds or finding a new flower has a therapeutic effect.  Finding a vegetable growing under my tutelage - amazing.

I mention this as someone who has painted all her life, juggling work, family, home upkeep, and general life things with trying to get a painting done.  Possible, but not ideal.  It involved carving time out of a hectic schedule to make sure the art didn't get lost in the shuffle of life as that is akin to losing oneself.   I'm glad I kept things going as much as possible, but for years of fitting things in, the opportunity to have a lifestyle that is built around a passion is priceless.  So if you are an artist or creator who is thinking of retiring, it can be a beautiful thing; if you are still in the workforce and/or raising a family, be sure to make time for your own creativity - it's important.   Keeping that inner joy or positive spiritual connection going also makes us better on the outside - and the world needs more of that in all of us.