"Morning has broken

Like the first morning..."

…blackbird has spoken ..like the first bird”

A gorgeous song recalled this morning by Cat Stevens /Yusuf Islam. This song rolls back the years and memories for me and also made me smile and relate to the early Spring morning before me. The sun filtered through the windows with a slightly different golden tone and although the trees outside my home are leafless still- the birds kicked up a concoction of cheerful sounding melodies

A one minute video of backyard views on this sunny April morning

I realize (as has been evident in my recent posts) that I have been in a darker place -trying to make sense of the horror in Gaza and the way the world feels upside down and unreliable. Also I have felt frankly rather helpless to instil change. ..To stir up hope for better days . For a sense of humanity and sanity to return. Sigh . Thank you to those of you who have commented, participated in my art fundraisers and who are in solidarity.

I do need to take a pause.

My daughter is getting married this week and this important life event needs my full attention. Not just my physical presence but my total mental and emotional focus on her and this happy occasion. So in order to be there for her completely and to prep myself for the travel across the ocean I need to put some of my dark concerns and fretting on the shelf momentarily and immerse myself in the joyous moments ahead.

first crocus observed

Winston sunbathing as a post winter pastime

when we were walking today down a sun drenched gravel road we were distracted by the chorus of frogs in a nearby pond ..It was such a dramatic announcement of life that it made us pause and take it all in.. I believe they are Spring peepers and are announcing themselves in harmonious unison to their potential mates !

Nature reminds us what is important and everlasting in the moment .

So lastly ..I decided to make a sample art book for an upcoming book art workshop event that I am participating in as a facilitator. It’s called aptly Biblioarts and will feature a number of fascinating hands on learning opportunities from some local talented instructors !

My workshop is called “Blooms, Blossoms and Birds”.. and it lends itself to warm and bright colours and an upbeat creative experience . (I do like to emphasize fun and play in my workshops )

It didn’t take much persuasion for me to get a little messy and start making!

a little handmade sample book/art journal to celebrate the season…

I will be taking a short two week break from these newsletters but will return as soon as I am able !

Comments always welcome..

Thank you so much for reading Ageless Artist ..And Happy Spring to you wherever you are !