All But…

I have all but disappeared off the face of the earth. It wasn’t a conscious decision or a well-thought-out choice. It just happened.

The last few years have been emotionally challenging. My mental health has taken a big hit. The pandemic had nothing to do with it. I was a mess before it arrived, and it actually had little impact on my day-to-day life.

Medication can only do so much when you have ignored your well-being for the majority of your life. I’ve made things, but I haven’t shared them. Nor have I listed any in my Etsy Shop. It’s on the list. It’s been on the list for a year now. I’ve done some art journaling. I made digital art. I learned to do a few things in Procreate. I have also begun dabbling in typography, creating my own fonts. I’ve even done a little writing…again, I haven’t shared any of it. I have a camera roll full of photos and videos….Waiting. Waiting to find out if they’re going to go in the archive, trash, or share piles.

I have been disengaged, distracted, unfocused, unmotivated, lost, confused, and exhausted. I’ve learned that I have normalized feeling bad. If I’m feeling tired, bored, or meh…I’m good. I recently decided to devote time to self-study. I aim to increase my emotional intelligence. I also want to study some of the art lessons I have purchased. During the month of May, I have been Painting with Yvette.

I rushed through a couple. There are mistaeks, and they are far from perfect. But I’m learning to give myself permission to play and go with it, and I love some things about them. Making art is so very good for healing. Sometimes, it is hard to get to the art desk, but it always pays off. Each time, it gets a little easier.

Pictured below are the first six spreads. As I flip through the pages, I love how this little journal is coming together.

Be well and take care of yourselves. Thanks so much for stopping by.

Until next time,