January 2010 The Challenge

This is my second painting in January, called "Mom's Hiding Place". In September last year I went to Park City all by myself and found this super spot - a mother's dream - quiet, beautiful, a running stream and no one around but me. It was just what I needed. Before the 24 hours were over I was renewed and eager to see my family again. I was surprised how much I missed them.

I began this new year with a personal challenge. I have to complete one painting by Friday night each week of the year. I decided to do this because I've been talking about painting, dreaming about painting and wanting to paint, but hardly ever doing it. This forces me to plan what I want to do and really do it. This year is not about talking, but doing. This is my first painting in January called "Lehi pasture".

I was always afraid to show people my art, but now I'm going to free myself from that fear by allowing everyone to see it. I have mostly worked with watercolors, but now I've decided to learn oils. It's very different and I love the strength and gloss of the colors.

I'm a very busy mother of 4 children (ranging from 19 months to 10 years). I love my family so much. They bring me so much joy. Painting allows me to spend some time doing something I love. I learn each painting I do so I know by the end of the year I will have improved a lot.

My studio is a little corner of our family room. I dream of having a studio where I can have a quiet space and not have to put my paints away each day (for fear of poisening my youngest child). But life is good and I'm thankful for what I have. My children build me up and tell me I'm a great artist. When the kids are all gone to school it's something I would love to do full-time. I've spent most spare moments looking at other artists work. Now it's time to create my own.

I'm sure my dream is like many others. I've always believed in pursuing my dreams, but I've been on hold for a very long time. I think homemakers need something just for them more than anybody else. If somethings missing in your life maybe it's the pursuit of your dream. Right now since I've began my life feels so full. There's nothing else I need. I'm feeling so excited looking around and trying to decide what my next paintings will be. I see beauty all around - even right outside my door. Life is awesome! Come join me.