Well, well, well… here we are in the run up to Thanksgiving already. Is it just me, or has 2018 sprinted by in a particularly speedy manner? It feels like it was just yesterday when I was still absentmindedly writing 2017 on all my checks. Or maybe it was yesterday? I’m a lost cause when it comes to writing dates. I blame America. It’s asking way too much to have me remember to write my dates backwards and remember what year it is!!
Phew, I need a restorative cup of tea after just thinking about it.
Speaking of American things, in just three days it will be Thanksgiving. A day of overeating, watching Football, and giving thanks for the good things in your life. As staunch vegetarians, my family doesn’t go in for all that roasted bird business. As staunch nerds, we don’t get too excited about football either (unless it is of the European variety, or Beyonce is somehow involved). However, we do like the very lovely idea of reflecting on the good things in our lives, and giving thanks for them.
So in that spirit, here is a list of things in my life that currently make me feel very thankful.
Note: this does not include the very obvious things that I am always most thankful for, ie: my family, friends, good health, a proper cup of tea, and a roof over my head.
A new and exciting placement
This year, Arts Fairfax chose me as one of their artists in residence. So, in January, I get to teach a project at Glasgow Middle School. I feel extremely lucky, slightly nervous and very excited to be back in a classroom. We are going to be designing and screenprinting posters! Watch this space.
A new and exciting room
It’s official! It is actually happening! We are building a studio above our garage. Gasp. A whole, entire space dedicated to making things. A creative haven with big white walls just for me. I will be able to move all of my projects into one space at last (except for summer camp – that might just break the space!). I’m convinced that this is going to make me a more productive and better human being. Sigh.
An international support system
I am very lucky to have some amazing friends who cheer me on, even as I go into a slump, especially when I go into a slump. Phone calls, snail mail, and bits of inspiration that get sent my way all keep me going. My small town in Virginia is not quite crawling with artists, but I stay connected with a network of friends who keep me up to date with cool creative happenings around the world, and keep prodding me on with their brilliance (check out what this brilliant artist friend has been up to). Now if only I could apparate …
Books, always books
What would I do without a good book to sink into? And there are so many good books out there. I volunteer at my local library for a reason. One of my favorite things to do is read to children, because I can do a lot of silly voices, but also because I want them to love books as much as me, and know the happiness of being involved in a great read.
This list could be so much longer, and I do like to babble, but I’m controlling myself. There are things to be thankful for everywhere. I’m thankful for anyone who reads this post. Thank you.
Happy Thanksgiving!
