Yesterday was not so good, as I had significant lower back and leg pain -- the first time since the surgery healed and it seemed to be resolved. Scary. I've been happy the surgery was successful as my back felt stable and pain free, and the nerve pain in my legs had dissipated. Yesterday it was back to the point I had an ice pack in my pants to get to school. Which was awkward as it fell down my pant leg as I walked from the car to the building as I've lost weight and my pants are looser. Funny if you are a kid walking into school and seeing a teacher fish a soggy ice pack out of her pant leg, but whatever. I got to school, the main point. It was a scary feeling and while it is a bit better today, I am still walking and moving with trepidation. If this comes back...I can't even think about it after going through the surgery. I am praying it is just the RA or muscle stuff. Truly.
Now that I've submitted my daily physical complaint, I can think about art. I am happy to say that I have decided to move on the Embroidery Guild of the UK coursework. I think it will help me focus my efforts and expand what I am doing to make it better. The program is listed as a 120 hour program, so can be compared to a grad credit course, so professional re-imbursement is reasonable to expect. The tutor, Gill Riordan, has been in touch and seems lovely. Onward! I am so grateful that I live in the age of distance learning opportunities.
Started reading the book "The Compassionate Mind" by Paul Gilbert -- it is excellent. In the first chapter alone he has summarized the reason why we are the most stressed out, evolutionary-maladapted race of animals on the planet. He brings brain science to the table and has excellent footnotes that I plan to use to do more reading. His writing style is clear and interesting. Can't wait to read the rest -- and if you are caught in the trap of stress, over-business, exhaustion, and more, I highly recommend the book!
Today for art, just a pic of an intriguing Beaney piece -- is it a pepper? Is it an abstract image? Not sure. But it sure is interesting! The variety of thread marks alone are amazing. Enjoy!