Dear Friend,
What a time we’ve had since 2020!
I know you have memorable life stories. Me too. I’d love it if you share in the comments below.
And, since the beginning of 2022 to mid-2023, sad to say, I barely painted. But, I did draw and draw and draw.
Here’s an update… in December, 2019, my loving Dad passed away, leaving my Mom alone after 74 years of marriage. They’d never been apart. She’d never lived alone.
I live close by, so I stepped in and started helping her. Then, March 2020 and Covid shutdowns. No more in person classes to teach, no traveling to meet other artists and to share what I do. My friend Mary suggested I contact French Escapade and try teaching on Zoom, which I did for a short time.
In January 2021, Mom fell and broke her leg. So, again I stepped in and stepped up my care for her. Then another fall at the beginning of this year fractured her neck.
When we go to the doctor or out for a meal, I see people around my age with their elderly parents. So many of us are in this same boat. We have the privilege, the responsibility and the difficulties of taking care of those we love. It means leaving some things behind that we just don’t have time for anymore… and sorting out what those things may be. It’s a very confusing journey at times.
When I come home these days, home doesn’t feel like home. I think about the girl who used to live here. The girl who had plenty of time to paint and work and share by teaching.
When I come home now I water the yard. I feed the cat. I rest. But I do not paint. I think I should paint. But, I do not. I think of all of the artists/students I’ve talked to over the years who have said “I just can’t get started painting”.
What to do?? Start with a little tiny step.
And, now it is February of 2025. Mom passed away at age 98 in January of 2023. I’ve inherited Mom and Dad’s home. My “little” sister, Sue passed July of 2022. I think often how much I miss my family, my sister, my Mom and Dad. Now here I am on a beautiful piece of property, live oaks all around, a house built by my parents in 1980. I have spent the last couple of years moving and going through belongings… my Mom and Dad’s, my sister’s, and my own. And, I still have way too much stuff.
Stuff aside, I am so grateful for this beautiful home, the wildlife out my windows, and the long time I was able to have with my family. I’m not alone though. I have two loving sons and five grandchildren who give me so much love and wonderful times.
And, now I’m taking time to teach again and paint regularly. I hope you are getting along and still finding time for art.
With Love,
Jeannie