2013

Happy New Year! Did you watch the Tournament of Roses parade this morning? It always amazes me - the floats made from natural, perishable materials - they are all so beautiful. And while I was looking forward to another year of surfing dogs, the Natural Balance pet food company created another impressive display this year. I spent some time painting, during and after the parade. I experimented a little bit with watering down paint into tiny spray bottles, but I'm not sold on that technique yet. I painted a canvas with a layered flower. It looks a little bit like I'd imagined it in my mind, with much more added detail. Sometime, I may paint something similar with more restraint in the details. I like it, regardless. It's bright and reminds me of patchwork, in a way.

One layer of the flower is a piece of coffee filter, on which I wrote my goals for 2013. They weren't resolutions, just ideas that came to mind about improvements I'd like to make in my life. They are simple, and they are mostly about simplicity, health, using resources wisely, being present and intentional, challenging myself creatively, and spending time with family and friends. There are so many opportunities ahead for me to grow.

May your 2013 be filled with peace and joy!