Tis the Season

After late nights and long weekends, my husband, Jim, finished his paintings in time for the gallery opening. As with any date in December, the weekend was packed with arts events and it wasn't as populated as previous New Editions Holiday shows. But what do you know, one of the attendees was the art buyer for the University of Kentucky Hospital. The major renovation includes a mindset that embraces the 'art heals' philosophy; according to Herald-Leader reporter Tom Eblen, UK Hospital is a notable art museum. They continue acquiring works to showcase Kentucky's amazingly talented, diverse artists, the most recent being nine of Jim's 18x18 mixed media pieces! What an honor!

Take a moment to enjoy his work while I digress...




I am not the only one who feels unprepared, behind schedule, frazzled and, well, tired. I know I'm not. But even after years of experience, I'm off the grid, out of the loop, in an oddly egg-shaped orbit that has taken me far from recognizable turf. I've seen very little of friends and festivities and lots of, well, preparation.



I do have two teenagers with busy schedules and a chronic illness that eats my time, and then there was the day after Thanksgiving incident involving abscesses, oral surgery... a painful ten days spent watching movies instead of being productive, blah, blah, blah. My new dentist, as she was finishing up my root canal last week, said she had a few patients who were completely prepared for the holidays and just enjoying the season. We had a simultaneous urge to barf. I mean, really??



The rest of us, a whopping majority I feel certain, all have unique and myriad reasons why we're never caught up with that sit-back-and relax kind of satisfaction. Think about it... if nearly everyone of us - are you with me? - is caught up in the fray, what does that say about our expectations? Are our days really supposed to be Chinese fire drill rehearsals? In spite of the countless reminders, self-help articles, sermons and vows about focusing on the true meaning aside, I wonder if I'll ever be willing to shift my perspective.



It's a matter of programming driven by the expectation trap. Life, as John Lennon said so aptly, is what happens when you're making other plans. Like my planned commitment to make 12 December calendars for the swap group I've been involved with for a few years now. Nope. The gifts I'd envisioned creating. Nope again. Between our own issues and the unplanned, it's all too easy to give up. Instead, perhaps there's something to be said for giving in.



Just when I think I've had the most comprehensive lesson in surrender, I'm tested anew. But the positive side is an acquired taste for acceptance, an appreciation of the days after the pain, the breather moments between pressure points. Along with a full realization of the incredible blessings that overshadow any trifling complaints.



The only work I've done in the studio since September has been to help Jim by prepping (previously posted) backgrounds, but what a reward. I may not be sending out Christmas cards but who says New Year's Greetings won't be appreciated? Yes, it took three days to get lights on the tree and I have yet to bake a cookie.



I haven't visited ANY of my favorite blogs either, hence the off-the-grid sensation. Less than a week before Christmas, twelve days until we greet a new year, and I decided to watch football with the boys and now, drink coffee and write a blog post and allow myself mindful meditation to focus on the good that really does outdo the petty negatives.



So, just when I've mastered the art of the excuse, I find I don't need it after all.

Happy day, blessed holidays, greetings and love to all!

Comments

Wow, Patti! You and your husband are so talented. Awesome work. And don't worry about being out of the loop. I'm just getting back in myself. I just decided to buy presents instead of making anything and am not struggling to get anything done. I'm taking my time and will have art ready for the coming year. With my insane work schedule I rest when I can.

Merry Christmas and a much better Happy New Year!
Seth said…
What sensational work. It is utterly unique and really compelling. What I want to know is when is he starting his blog?!?!
She Who Doodles said…
some pretty awesome work by your husband. congrats to him. i use to be more organized during the holidays then i am now and i have less to do. go figure. happy holidays.
Thank you for sharing your blessings, Merry Christmas dear friend! Mary Helen
Gaby Bee said…
WOW, these are amazing!!!
Warm Christmas wishes to you and yours! Health, Happiness and may all of your dreams come true for 2012!

Hugs, Gaby
Caterina Giglio said…
yeah... I agree with Seth! very original and when is he going to blog? yeah we all feel a sense of being in a haze at this time of year... but so glad you posted so I can wish you the happiest and merriest of seasons.... xox
Poetic Artist said…
Patti,
Thank you for stopping by my blog.
Your husbands art is wonderful.
I hope the new year shall bring you a new wind that blows through your spirit to give you strength and inspiration and you will listen and be prepared.
Love,
Katelen
You're right Patti- you're not the only one feeling overwhelmed right now. I didn't have time to decorate, and only finished the tree on Saturday, but I have decided it's OK. I think we put far too much pressure on ourselves during the holidays, so much so that it's not enjoyable any more. It's supposed to be fun, right? No way can I compete with those people who are prepared in advance and just sitting back (I have to admit I might hate them a little), but I'm betting they don't work full time or have a chronic illness. Like you said, its best to give in and learn a lesson from it, and try to lessen the pressure on ourselves.

Congrats to your husband, though- how exciting for him (and you)! I think his work is absolutely stunning. You must be so proud of him!!

Hope you are well and relaxing now that Christmas is over. big hugs,
Sharmon
p.s. And don't feel bad- I'm so out of the lop I don't even know where the loop is- lol!
Anonymous said…
oh, i love these! what a talent your husby is!!

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