In between the extreme busyness of art business activities, craft fairs, stocking the stores that carry my designs, holiday travels, family gatherings and birthday celebrations there have been moments of peace and quiet. I catch these moments when I can. Sometimes the moments are more premeditated and sometimes the quiet moments catch me by surprise.
Like now as I write this on an icy December night, the baby is asleep and my husband is out in his studio. I have the house to myself. I lit a lot of candles and am playing medieval renaissance music through the speakers. It feels good to sit in golden candle light and catch my breath at home in a peaceful atmosphere. I created this moment.
Another moment of winter quiet came by surprise this weekend early in the morning and at twilight as I drove to and from the craft fair in Charlemont, MA in which I participated. The rural winter scenes were beautiful as I drove and the light against the silhouettes of the trees so lovely. These quiet moments in the car were a welcome break from the constant sound of voices and loud, popular holiday music at the fair. The pictures above were taken during these moments this weekend.
Winter is a time for quiet, a time to think, reflect, regroup and dream. I'm slowly exhaling after all the running around of 2013 and I am ready to reflect and dream. For the next few months I want less agendas and less deadlines. My creative self needs this kind of break.
I turned 38 this past Tuesday. I am excited about this time in my life. I'm old enough to know more about what I want and who I am. And I'm young enough to continue working on projects and begin working on some long term goals. I can take steps, one at a time, that will eventually add up to something big. I think this something will take years and years to accomplish. I hope to still have plenty of time ahead.
And yet despite having goals and dreams, I feel wrapped in the mystery of the unknown and this is where the magic lies. Those unexpected, sometimes quiet moments when I feel held, embraced and guided by something bigger than myself.
Hi Kim, Your pictures are lovely. I'm so glad you are getting the time to reflect and set goals and dream dreams! I have come to these realizations later in life than you-You must have a lot of good fortune! I've found myself with time on my hands lately, since moving in with Mom in Haydenville. I have my own space and I don't have a studio/office room yet, though it is coming. Quiet reflection is so much easier here that it was in my last place. It is so valuable to us! Happy Birthday, too-May this be a great year for you.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Sherry
Hi Sherry! Thanks for your kind words. Best wishes as you settle into your new home. It sounds like you will have good creative energy there. Enjoy setting up your studio/office!
Deletexo
Kim
Oh yes. This post resonates deeply with me. While the details vary, the feeling is the same. Winter is my favorite season - precisely for all the reasons you listed. Lovely post. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHi Starr,
DeleteJust when I think I have favorite season...the season changes and I think it's the one I'm experiencing! I lived in southern California for four years and despite the lovely weather, it was hard. No drastic changes in season made me feel down. I really love winter and the stillness and quiet. Enjoy your cozy home and thank you for saying hello!
xo
Kim
Beautiful photos, Kim... ( I recognize some of my paintings in them) Look forward to getting together soon to celebrate a belated b-day with you.
ReplyDelete(Hi Starr!)
Thank you,Valerianna! I look forward to celebrating my b-day with you too and spending some time with you. I'll call this week to touch base.
Deletexo
Kim
Such beautiful photos! I think giving your creative self a break is a great idea, and I hope you have more such quiet, restful moments.
ReplyDeleteThank you Bonnie! Sending you warm, cozy thoughts on this snowy afternoon.
Deletexo
Kim
Ah, my Kimbally, reading this was like an infusion of soulfulness. It was much-needed indeed. For as much as I spent years building a world where moments like this were semi-plentiful. Alas, for whatever reason, they come few and far between anymore, and I need reminders like yours that these are the times that infuse me and strengthen me. Thank you for sharing this - I miss you, my friend. xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteHi Val! Thank you for your sweet words. I miss you so much too. I'd love to be sipping tea with you this afternoon in front of the wood stove while it snows outside. I'm happy you had a soulfulness infusion from this post. I've been enjoying your soulful photos of the exquisite sunsets you saw last month on FB. Love to you my friend!
Deletexo
Kim
Candles and renaissance music :-)
ReplyDelete