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The studio (along with its owner) is moving over 700 miles, and I'll be living in a new area, completely different from where I live now. Rural, peaceful, beautiful compared to the extreme hustle and bustle of my current home.  I'm in the last days of packing, and most of my artwork is boxed, wrapped, or otherwise ready for travel. Where those frames came from, multiplying on their own, stuck in this closet or that -- they'll take some wrangling, but surely I will come to the end of them soon!  I had no idea the stockpile of materials I had amassed. I've packed my supplies, my creative materials, in preparation for the moving truck. There is probably more art and supplies than household goods, and I suppose this silently speaks of what is truly important to me these days, and my life is upside down.

This whole move/relocation/adventure is a move of faith.  What I'll create when I get there, I don't really know.  I have a new style I'd like to explore, and I've only had a taste of what it might mean for future creations.  But mainly I am stepping forward into a great unknown.  Who will my market be? What will I create? Will I meet other artists, who will "fit" with my personality? Will I still have what it takes to get out and get it done? Will I be isolated, or have the strength to step out of my studio? Can I find my bearings? Will I even have a clue? 

I'm not running away.  I'm stepping out, trusting my heart to lead me forward. My husband's death, my marriage of 44+ years over, leaving my deep Southern roots, being separated from some family to be near other family, friends left behind (shaking their heads), will all bring challenges. My hope is that the singleness will be a sacred time, a time of reflection, calming of the spirit, and beginning again.  I think I will find joy again, probably where I least expect it.  I wasn't made to be afraid, but to walk in confidence. I have felt a subtle tugging, a leading of the heart, to change my life and begin with new eyes, new heart, and hope.  I can't say if I will find what I am looking for, but at least I will have courage and LOOK.  

Art, for the creative,  has a way of soothing the soul in a way that is almost a mystical experience.  The colors dance, come together, lead you on to capture a scene, a feeling, a shadow, a texture. It is always at work in my mind, even if the supplies are packed.  I have only to open the mental door and find a world of possibilities, of creative ventures, and ideas.  I expect it will be there in my new studio, waiting to be opened like the boxes I will find there.  I have faith that joyful living will not abandon me. I believe my resolve will not fail me, that hope in a bright future will not wither.  

Whatever the future holds, whatever art remains to be created, and explored, it will be a bright and cheerful place.   I have faith. I can't wait to get there. Stay tuned.