As each painting adventure begins, I have a little talk with myself. My subject – a painting or photograph — by a favorite artist – is usually simple and colorful. I anticipate how it will be. But I have a little chat with myself.
It’s not going to look like what I see, I say breathing deeply. You are not a camera, It doesn’t have to be some carbon copy I say, chiding myself.
Already I am thinking how to “adapt” the design or palette, excited for a new painting adventure.

Inspiration and End Result
The result of each recent adventure
Some paintings have worked out better than others; some look like I let the inner child pick up a brush! But, I am grateful for the time, space, and wherewithal to try again. Painting develops parts of my brain and heart that aren’t ready to atrophy!
For sheer excitement, you can keep movie premieres and roller coasters. An empty white canvas waiting to be filled. That’s the thing. (Pam Brown)
Painting feels as good as getting off a roller coaster, or seeing a top-flight movie or play, and wanting to go again . . . before common sense kicks in. And it’s time to clean up.
Since actually getting on a roller coaster, or going to a movie for that matter, is not going to be an adventure for a while . . . if ever, it’s a distinct joy to anticipate . . .
Nothing is so good as it seems beforehand. –George Eliot, Silas Marner, Chapter 18*
So, as these uncertain times have settled in for a longer spell than we hoped, it looks like I will paint on . . . I just ordered more paint and a few more SMALL canvases. Ok, half a dozen. Don’t judge.
I don’t know what I am going to do with all of paintings. There are always the bare walls in the basement . . .

I keep telling myself . . .
How are you holding up, dear reader? I appreciate your reading and your friendship. I am taking this thought into the new week, because there is a whole lot of shaking’ goin’ on, in the words of a rock n’roll legend.
We turn to God for help when our foundations are shaking, only to learn that it is God who is shaking them. ~Charles C. West
*Christiansquoting.com