The studio has sat empty for a while now. The rush and craziness of the busy holiday season annually chases me from my work space. Fear of burnout and recently being sick, keeps me from traversing the steps down to the space that I had spent countless hours in just weeks ago.

But today was different. I cleaned off my work table. I varnished over last years layers of paint that added up over the past 12 months to create a shiny fun work surface. (And WOW what a fun abstract painting it is on its own!) I took inventory of brushes and paints. I organized a few unfinished projects and housed errant supplies. I made myself at home in an old familiar place once again. The feelings of excitement rushed back as I mixed new bright spring colors and started a few small paintings.

Perhaps I should have started earlier. I should have jumped into a new season following a few orders and miscellaneous creations. But I firmly believe all things happen for a reason and I took this time because that is what my mind and body needed.

And so it begins again ...