On Tuesday it will be a decade since my dear dad passed away. Yesterday I went to my parents' grave to bring a fresh garden flower. My Ma's peony plant was finally blooming, so I brought a big, fluffy blossom. I feel remiss in not having gone to the gravesite this since last fall, but then remember that my Dad had said shortly before his death that he didn't want me to be sad and maudlin, and only wanted me to visit every now and then and bring fresh flowers from the yard to the grave. It was during that important conversation that he said he wanted me to go on and live a happy life. What a gift. I still miss him, and my mom, so much. I don't think we ever get over losing our parents, despite how old we become. I am so glad I made portraits of them when they were alive as there is laughter we all shared together in them, like a time capsule.
On a bright note, today I will be heading west to Charlton, MA to present my artwork to the Cornerstone Quilters Guild. It will be a nice day for driving with the top down and getting some sunshine. I hope to let my mind work on the background of the skull piece as I drive today...still not 100% ready to make the pieces, I think. Driving is a great way to let the unconscious artist-brain boil up some ideas. Here's to creativity!
What will you make today?