Can A Dead Artist Come Back To Life?

 My life as an artist died when I could no longer hold a brush, a pencil or a pen.

I was a professional artist for almost 20 years. I had a one-woman show. I schmoozed with all the artsy fartsy folk and loved it. Then my fingers, hands, wrists, and other parts hurt. Holding tools became more and more difficult. Fibromyalgia came and took up residence in my body. Over the last ten years, art has been delegated to football posters and locker decorations. I created a new image for our school mascot. But even then, I could only do so much.

Last year, I started Lyrica. Since January I've been participating in NOOM a weight-loss program designed to tackle issues scientifically and psychologically. I've been developing healthier habits including yoga, meditation, walks, good food.

Through this covid crap, I've been following my friend, Virginia Nelson on Facebook as she posts her latest paintings and projects. She inspired me.

When I was on vacation with the family at Lake 27, I attempted to draw. I managed a couple little illustrations. I must say, I felt really good afterwards. Maybe all is not lost. 

Sitting on the end of the dock, I played with a marker and paper.

Perhaps the artist within me will rise again to draw and paint. We shall hope and take small steps.

What do you inspire to do?

What's stopping you?

Freaky Fibro Friday - Ever Have One of Those Days?

 With the disease comes the fog, forgetfulness and funnies.

Yep... with Fibromyalgia, comes the Fibro Fog. Fibromyalgia affects thinking ability and memory. I'm only 53 so I really can't blame it on old age. Over time, my family and I have learned to laugh at some of the crazy stuff that results from the fog.

Take for instance, just the other day. After dinner, I decided I wanted  little scoop of vanilla ice cream (smothered) with chocolate syrup.  I pulled the pail of frozen goodness from the freezer and was greeted with a surprise. I had left the ice cream scoop inside from the last time I made myself a sundae.

Oh, Lordy, Lordy.

Hubby say, "It's okay, honey. We'll take care of you."

Do you every do crazy stuff?

Do you every have one of those days?

#Thursday13 - #GirlsNightOut - Wine and Cheese Party

Thursday Night during Blueberry Festival is the Annual Wine & Beer Tasting events sponsored by our local grocery store, Riverside Market. Half of the Coffee Club works the event while the other half does the tasting. Oh, trust me... those that work get plenty of tasting as well.

Because this year's festival was cancelled due to the Covid crap, Coffee Club held their own Wine and Cheese party. Debbie hosted the event in her backyard and her decorations were super cute! Each Coffee Club "member" brought two bottle of wine to share and a unique cheese. We took turns presenting our wines with flare. 

These are a few of my favorite photos taken. 

1. 

Debbie, our gracious hostess.

2. 

Most Michigan wine was presented, but several came from other states with fun stories of how they were obtained. (Kendra - getting the wine from a gas station while picking up piglets from North Carolina, they one getting carsick and running loose at a welcome center.)

3. 

Leslie found this bag and thought it fit our group.
We've decided to start a book club so we can all have bags like this,
and have an excuse to read books & drink wine.

4.

Beautiful pic one of the gals took.

5. 

Deb finds the most unique items.

6. 

One of my favorite photos of the night.

 

6. 

My favorite wine of the night. Amy found it at small batch winery in Northern Michigan.

7. 

8. 

Me & my bestie with her daughter.

9.

An attentive group of ladies, ready for some serious wine tasting.

10. 

Kendra & Peggy

11. 

Kendra & Tammie

12. 

Kendra & Deb

13. 

The entire party. Sorry it's a bit blurry. No, it wasn't the wine.

Bonus pic and my ultimate favorite, perhaps of all the Coffee Club photos over the years.

We're just missing a few gals.

Is there something you do with close friends, whether it be weekly, occasionally or yearly?

Isn't it awesome having friends to share this journey of life with?

What special things do you & your pals do?