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How is it March?

Two of the intentions I wrote on my studio door at the beginning of the year are “take your time” and “slow down.” I do want to live a life that is slow and focused. Mindful and present. But wow, time seems to be speeding up while I’m not. I’ll admit that it would be nice to cross things off my to-do list a little bit faster…

In a way, though, the fast pace of society and the swift turning of calendar pages make me want to dig my heels in and slow down even more. “I’m not done savoring!”

So I’m going to keep savoring.

You may have noticed that I’ve kept the houseplant header for today’s note. Although signs of spring are starting to appear, I’m still obsessing about houseplants and continuing to putter around with my indoor garden.

It’s been inspiring my paintings, too.

In January I shared what I called “strange… in progress” art. I’ve been continuing with this series and hung the pieces (that weren’t done in my sketchbooks) on the closet doors in my studio.

What I’ve loved most about creating these portraits is the slow and unhurried way I’ve approached the project. There’s no pressure. No goal for an end result. Having them hung where I can see them allows me to spend time looking and thinking.

I need to spend more quiet time looking and thinking.

And so although I may feel as if time is flying past, I’ll gladly linger longer. It makes me wonder what a difference it would make in my life if I could allow myself to slow down even more.

A creative prompt:

Pay attention to the subtle (and not so subtle) changes as the season shifts

Today marks the first day of Meteorological Spring and the Vernal Equinox is now less than three weeks away. Of course, if you don’t live on the same side of the planet as I do, autumn is settling in for you instead. Either way, this time of year is a beautiful season of change. There’s something new to notice each day.

Let’s spend the coming weeks noticing!

Slow down. Unplug. Connect with nature. Use all five of your senses. Look and think. Record your observations in your journal or your sketchbook. Take photographs.

Challenge yourself to be present and truly savor the season.

Some inspiration:

• A studio in a shepherd’s hut. How cool is that?

• And if you enjoy studio tours, watch this one where Miss Mustard Seed gives us a peek into every drawer.

• Feeling uninspired? Here are some ideas from Abigail Halpin to kick-start your creativity.

• Self care is important! Max Daniels shares “the basics”.

• In case you need some beautiful photos of dahlias (and are curious about how new flower varieties are created), go check out this post from Floret.

• Planning your garden? Here are some tips (and lots of beautiful plants and flowers from a garden nearing autumn).

• Jess continually inspires me with her garden and with her calm, thoughtful take on living a life.

That’s all for today. Hang in there, my friend.

Wishing you joy,

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