The world is too much with us, said William Wordsworth. Some days this poem resonates clearly, as depressing as it is.
But recognizing this, I can soon muddle around in the emotions and come out the other side. I don’t need to stay there. And, as Wordsworth found, getting outside in nature helps. The sun on my face, the crisp air.
Focus on this day, this moment. It gets better.
…the less I sleep
…the more I worry
…and the more aches appear
But I haven’t stopped loving to learn.
The thing about letterpress printing is each time I ink up the press, I have something I need to figure out. Maybe it’s the paper. Is the ink too cold? What about the packing? Is that metal letter chipped? Why is it printing more on one side than the other?
At first, I feel frustration rising. And then I remind myself: you got this. I take some time and figure out what the problem is, and then…. Ta da! I love the feeling of success, too! I wish I’d discovered this early in my life. But I’m going to enjoy the time I have left with it.
Before the arthritis kicks in too much. #gettingoldhurts
Once I year (I can say that now because I’ve done this twice), I attend a camp in Asheville, NC. It’s called Life is a Verb, directed by author/speaker Patti Digh.
We make art, write, connect with friends, share quiet moments by the pond, and laugh at the raucous talent show. It’s an amazing experience, and I come away inspired to create and share my work.
So, for now, I am holding on to what is good. I am not going to let world events (and specifically our frustrating US political situation) get me down.
Do you have your cards? Stationery? Stamps?
It’s time…
When I first started letterpress printing, I wasn’t sure which direction I would go. I love working in wood, metal, and polymer. But I knew one thing I didn’t want to do– weddings!! So I assumed I wouldn’t want to do custom work of any kind.
I’ve been pleasantly surprised to find I LOVE doing prints and cards for people. I’ve had many people ask for specific quotes or themes, and it’s been great fun to work them out.
Here are two about to head out the door! Fruits and veggies for our local organic grocery story, Kickshaws, and a quote card for a fellow artist.
Who knew I’d have so much fun?
