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Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Art Therapy

To say this week has been a bit of a roller coaster ride would be an understatement....As John continues his recovery in a Philadelphia hospital, and I spend my time alternating between his bedside and home, the stress level has been higher than usual around here. Still, I'm making time to paint - which is at first glance a little strange. I mean, wouldn't I want to set all that aside for while, as I focus on John?

Not necessarily. It's true, my time is more limited. But I learned a long time ago that art can be incredibly restorative. There's definite healing power and comfort in it. To take a few minutes to create something calms and touches us on a very deep level. They don't call it art therapy for nothing. ;)

So in answer to all the very kind emails and messages wishing John a speedy recovery, while reminding me to take time for myself, I thank you. And I'm painting. :)

This treasure box was completed just today, a reminder of all the blessings of winter, with a sculpted moon, and a little verse hand lettered around the edge:

"Winter moon, Stars alight, Peace on Earth, Blessings Bright."

Being a bit distracted this week, I couldn't decide what kind of cat to paint, so I decided to paint them all. Well, OK nearly all. There's a black cat, and orange tabby, a tuxedo cat, a Siamese and a gray tabby. Oh, and there are three small snowflakes inside the box.

It lists on eBay this evening, with a buy-it-now option. :)

There's another cat piece in the works too, and an ornament chest coming very soon, although completion dates remain up in the air until my schedule slows down a bit.

John is making definite progress, but may need to go from the hospital to rehab for a few days (noooooooo, not that kind - although a dear friend of ours whose friendship dates back to the seventies said "I always knew he'd end up in rehab someday!") Hehe....

Many thanks again for all the prayers and positive energy, and much love....I'll be back again very soon!

♥ Carolee
PS - If you scroll down on the right, the winter playlist is posted now - just a few of my favorite seasonal tunes (those I could find on Playlist anyway - there are lots more) - So please give it a click if you're so inclined. And have a kleenex handy for "Christmas in the Trenches". It's a true story, and does me in every time I hear it.

14 comments:

  1. I love your "art therapy," Carolee. What wonderful kitties!
    Sending continued good thoughts and vibes your way.

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  2. So glad to hear John is doing good! Hope he comes home soon!! and yes you need to take time for yourself to help with the stress and if painting does the job....then paint away.
    kathren

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  3. You do need time for yourself. And your work is awesome. Keeping you and John in my prayers.

    Hugs
    Pam

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  4. Ooo! I love your moon's peaceful face! It must be the look of contentment you're discribing when doing your art therapy. Again, sending healing energy and well wishes. Deb

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  5. Beautiful work and so glad John is getting better and you are getting some stress release from your painting.:)

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  6. Therapy in art is good for the soul and the loved one your with. If your less stressed they will be. Wishing more fast recovery for John

    xoxoxxo

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  7. Your power of concentration to keep working is to be envied. Hang in there.

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  8. Art therapy helps us bounce with the bumps in the road! My best to you and John. I'm off to listen to your playlist~ Christmas in the Trenches has always been very dear to me~ remembering the times that my Father was serving during the holidays.

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  9. I never had the chance to tell you how much I enjoyed your Halloween playlist...it was my all time favorite. I hope that John has a comfortable and speedy recovery, and I hope that you keep working through this. The box was beautiful...was, because by the time that I signed on this morning, it was sold...which is a very good thing.
    ♥, Susan

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  10. My best recover wishes for John. It´s great to hear that your artwork is good for your soul.
    Your pieces are so wonderful, they are good for everybodys souls I suppose.
    Have a good weekend
    Janine

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  11. I hope all is going well with you both this week... keep us posted please :)

    Lori

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  12. Most beautiful therapy, love to you both. Lindax

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  13. Beautiful, my favorite color too-blue!
    Wishing all good and positive things to come your way :)

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