my 200th post

This is my 200th post. Perfect time for some reflection. On what this blog is and what I want it to be. And although this post is about Joy, I'm going to postpone my Joy List for now because I don't want to cram everything into one post.

As I was ironing something the other day for a project I'm working on, I glanced up at the calendar* on the wall and noticed these words.




It was during an afternoon when I was feeling a bit down. I was "supposed" to be working on paintings, but I wasn't in the mood. And when I tried to force it, the paint did not cooperate. So I abandoned my original plan for the day and decided to just play in my studio for a bit and see what happened. I let my collection of supplies guide my inspiration. And during that play time, I looked up and saw those words. "Think happy. Be happy." Yes. Happiness. Joy. Delight. Beauty. Wonder. That's what this blog is about. Noticing it. Capturing it. Sharing it. Simple, really. Later that day I had an idea that I should have jotted down right then and there, but instead I saved for later. Amazingly, when I got the chance the next day I did remember. I scribbled words and doodles and again, I just played. One idea led to another and slowly the page filled up with words and sketches.










I sat at the kitchen island and lost track of time. I brought out some colored pencils and started adding color until I needed to leave for work.




I think sometimes when you're feeling stuck or you're feeling down you need to abandon your plans and play. Sketchbooks and journals are the perfect place for that. It's not about creating a finished product or about creating art. It's about Joy.

I want to thank all of you who read my blog. Who comment on my posts and give me encouragement. It really means a lot to me. I've met so many interesting and talented people on this blogging adventure. I can't wait to see where it leads next!




*Calendar from Mollie Makes magazine, designed by FRYD.

Comments

  1. I like your 'stack of joy' and the blue painted toenails! When I am feeling down your blog gives me joy Anne!

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  2. I totally agree with you. You cannot force creativity. Let it flow and it will amaze and delight. :-)

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  3. I love your illustrated bubbles and turquoise toes :) Like creativity you can't force joy but you can encourage it by focusing on the moment, looking for beauty and letting your mind rest or play, whatever feels good. Well done!

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  4. Congratulations on your 200th post! I love that little saying of Think Happy. Be Happy. I have a button on my blog that has a great quote on it from Mark Twain and it goes "Whoever is happy will make others happy, too".

    Your blog always makes me happy :) I love your paintings.

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  5. 200 posts full of heart.
    now THAT'S an accomplishment.

    xo

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  6. Congrats on the 200
    Gotta just keep on keepin on eh?
    Hugs x

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  7. Hard to imagine a life without blogs. Yours has brought much beauty, joy, and inspiration to so many, many. Congrats on the first 200. May the next 200 be full of enthusiasm and contentment.
    love ya,
    mom

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  8. Yay! 200! Thanks for the inspiration! :)

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  9. Congrats on 200! I hope there are many more to come, I really enjoy your blog :) I like where you're going with that sketch; you have beautiful penmanship too, it really adds!

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  10. Thank you all so much for visiting me here and reading my words. It's been such fun! And your encouragement is immeasurable!

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  11. I'm late, but I still wanted to wish you congratulations on your 200th post Anne! SO glad I met you through AEDM! And I just LOVE your sketchbook!

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  12. Happy 200! that's a big deal.
    The day you described here is pretty much the day I am having now. We had Easter plans for today, which got jumbled with car troubles. I unexpectedly find myself at home, alone, with the afternoon to play in my sketchbook. It's amazing what flows...

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  13. Thank you!! Judy, I'm so glad that we met, too! And Amy, isn't it fun when you get an unexpected day just to play!?!

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