 I love to help; I really do. I'm generally volunteering for something or another (over a quarter century, from being on the helpline for our states home educators network to the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators). But as I get older, I've become less energetic, while at the same time I still want to try out new and different interests (such as surface pattern design) or get back to old hobbies (such as playing the ukelele), I don't have time to do it all.
Even worse sometimes, the help I offer is wholly unappreciated. It's not like I seek out glory or monetary compensation, but just knowing there's a bit of gratitude for the time I put into something would be nice. Twice in the past month, I have put much effort into a couple of things with zero acknowledgement. And this was a busy month with lots of vegetable processing, book deadlines, and taking classes. The veggies, book deadlines, and classes are a great return on my time invested. The other 2 things, not at all. So, henceforth, I will give up volunteering for pretty much everything. The exception? Being a writing mentor. I have mentored three people so far and they have been really rewarding experiences. I genuinely care about the careers of the writers I coached. So, I will, as time permits, continue to mentor. Do you find yourself saying yes to too many things that aren't giving you anything in return?
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A couple of bold souls from the group that participated in the inaugural Creative Fun In The Sun challenge are letting me share their beautiful creations. I'm so proud of them for attempting the prompts! For the challenge, I sent out a prompt every other day for a total of 7 days. People could interpret the prompts in whatever creative way they wanted--by writing, art, dancing...the sky's the limit. amerryheart6 shared her touching, raw, and honest essays that not only offer a glimpse into her heart but also delve deep into the nature of being human. Read more of her writing on Instagram!  And Myriam shares her spectacular and whimsical art with us! She and I have been friends for a number of years now. We first followed each other's blogs and now we've transitioned to Instagram where her art and comments always brighten my day. Be sure to check out her account.  She also wrote the cutest Lewis Carroll-esque poem for her adorable owl!  I hope you love these as much as I do and will consider joining me in next year's Creative Fun in the Sun Challenge.
I was so busy with a book deadline after running the #FunInSun2024 challenge that I completely forgot today is Friday and I need a blog post (for the 3 people, maybe, who read my blog posts...LOL...really not kidding). The Challenge turned out to be most enjoyable, at least for me and, I think, two other participants. 😉 Here are a few more things I ended up making for the prompts:
 The earrings and bracelet are both for sale. And I may make prints of the mock strawberry blossom as well.
I have enjoyed doing art versus writing lately and plan to make more time for it. Next week, I will share the work of those who participated in the Challenge...hopefully more than one person will want to share...and also announce the winners of the prizes. Hope you will join us next year! I've been busy trying to keep up with the #FunInSun2024 challenge this past week. Here are a couple of pieces I created for the first two prompts. They're in an illustrative style which is something I want to do for children's books. The paintings are done on 4"x4" wooden Art Boards that have holes in the back for easy hanging (or you can just stand them up like so). The one on the left is a Common Eastern Firefly while the one on the right is a Black Firefly. I think they would look great in a nature-loving kid's bedroom!  Each piece is $30 or you can get the pair for $50. Leave a comment or use the Contact Me form to let me know if you're interested in them!
I'm doing it! I'm running my first ever creative challenge...and I don't know about anyone else participating, but I'm certainly feeling inspired. :) Here's my intro video: If you're still wanting to join us, it's not too late. Just hop over to my News & Events page and look for the pop-up to sign up.
p.s. yes! There are prizes to be won :) |
AboutI'm in the process of moving content from my Wordpress blog to here. I'd love for you to follow me here; we will have fun together! Archives
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