Monday, February 11, 2008

To Everything There is a Season


When we moved east eleven years ago, one of the things I was most excited about was the chance to live "in season" again. Not that the opportunity wasn't there during our years in southern California - seasons change everywhere. But without the obvious and drastic climate change, it didn't really feel like much of a cycle...And while living by the ocean had it's perks (I still miss strolling the Seal Beach Pier, watching the sun set), it always felt a little strange to see people in shorts out buying Christmas trees, or celebrating Valentine's Day in eighty degree weather.

Seasonal living, for me, is filled with not only an appreciation of the current cycle, but also looking forward to the next one. Not a bad way to live a life - completely connected to one moment, but eagerly anticipating the next.

We're deep into winter here (although not nearly as drastically as our friends in the midwest!) and I must say I'm enjoying every bit of it; the shorter days and slower pace, the snuggling in; burning candles, baking bread, reading good books, and of course always creating....

But the seed catalogs are arriving in the mail, my neighbor's garden has a few bulbs popping up, the fish in the koi pond can be seen near the surface occasionally, and my thoughts (and work) are turning to spring. The anticipation was so strong yesterday, it found it's way into a new "Enchanted Garden" sign, shown above and listed now on eBay. I was thinking of my own garden as I painted, imagining which herbs I'll plant this year, wondering if last year's lavender will return, considering the relative merits of planting catnip, and so on.

Look for more spring inspired work soon, and for photos of my herb garden once the danger of frost has passed, and I can begin planting. And enjoy the blessings each season has to offer....

"Live each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influences of each." ~ Henry David Thoreau

Until next time,
~ Carolee

8 comments:

Random York said...

This is a wonderful entry Carolee- I really enjoyed reading it. That's a beautiful painting too!
John

Dianie said...

Carolee,
What a beautiful painting, And complimented with such lovely words...I always enjoy reading your posts, your words always give me such a calming peace within.
~Diane

Kitty Forseth said...

Thank you so much for your kind comment Carolee.

I love your witch.. she reminds me of the times I have spent wandering in my garden late at night, enjoying the evening primrose and honeysuckle.

xo Kitty

Anonymous said...

Like you Carolee, I enjoyed the seasonal changes. I grew up in southern California and I really can relate to your post. Your painting is enchanting and the cobblestone path makes me want to walk down it! Lovely.

Leah

Carolee said...

Thanks very much for the kind words, all. I'm soooooooo looking forward to spring!

~ Carolee

Christopher A. Klingler said...

Carolee ~ Your Garden Witch is beyond beautiful and it would have made a great Hallogreen Challenge piece! '-)

You write so eloquently and I always enjoy reading your posts!

I agree...come on Spring!!! :)

XOXO
Chris

Louise Peers said...

Wow ,beautiful work ,found your blog through Patricia at Zada .
hugs,
Louise

vintagepaletteart said...

Your sign is absolutely breathtaking Carolee! =D

*Lori