Late Nights and Early Mornings

Hustling to get everything done while simultaneously going slow to ensure quality, ends up generating the feel of a constant juggling act. So how can creation flow and be consistent during these times of meeting deadlines? Balance is my answer. Finding space and time within the mind and choosing to take moments out for peaceful breaths or thoughts is a top priority for me personally. If I did not take breaks while trying to finish tasks and stay on schedule then I would have a hard time keeping my creative process active. Late nights and early mornings seem to be the only time of day where there is complete quiet for creations to come alive. A time when others are asleep and my dog nestles at my feet protecting me from every sound he hears off in the distance. His constant companionship and trust helps motivate me to press on and finish what I start. There are many projects I am currently working on and completing one feels like a triumph. So as I sit in the evening, under a yellow light bulb struggling to see, I have my trusted friend at my feet reminding me of my passions.

As I pet his head I remember the hikes we have been on where these photographs were taken. I remember the rocks, trees, streams, and smells of each forest we walked through. This beautiful dog bounding off over boulders and looking for his ball while my family and I walked and enjoyed the beauty around us. Currently I have several forest and desert pieces I am working on and each stroke of my paintbrush brings calming memories to my mind. Nature is my favorite place to be and brings a peace unlike one I have ever known. I am happy I get to share these hikes with my family and fur buddy. I am beyond grateful for my artistic talent and the ability to share our experiences with you all as well. I hope to bring the joy of nature to your homes and the whimsy of wonder. The Newsletter will come out this Thursday and I am very excited to hear what you see in this new painting! You can sign up for the News on my Homepage. Until then, have a marvelous Monday and thank you for reading!

-Karen Hilliard