Lighter
September 12, 2009
[My uniform at Squam last year; my uniform at Squam this year.]
It has been a week, I tell you.
Good. Intense. Prayer-full.
So much of everything.
My husband and I saw "Julie and Julia" last night, and I was weepy throughout the entire movie. I had read and heard that the Julia part was much more fun and interesting than the Julie side of the story, but I found every inch of the movie just lovely. After what might have been my most hectic summer yet, I walked out of the movie realizing I have, in many ways, forgotten to keep the joy in everything I do. Julia Childs loved eating, loved cooking, and followed that love fearlessly; learning more about her journey and the ripple of joy and inspiration she created helped me see how far I've strayed from that…lightness. It was the exact reminder I needed at precisely the right moment.
During this same 24-hour period, I also got inspired by Marisa who has, I believe, started a movement. In the midst of having to tie up all the loose ends for my journey to Squam Art Workshops next week, I could not wait a single moment to do a massive household purge. This created two carloads to Goodwill and a total re-arrangement of my studio. I am now sitting at my desk with a whole new perspective, literally, feeling like I can board that plane to New Hampshire with…less. Less clutter in my home, my studio, my mind, and my heart. For as I've released boxes and bags of material items, the end of the summer has also provided me with a number of opportunities to release unhealthy stories, patterns, habits, and feelings.
As I said, it has been a week.
But the trash has been cleared, perspectives shifted, so much of what I have and know moved around, passed along, or maybe just slightly adjusted. And in 48 hours I'll be on my way to the magic gathering in the forest that is Squam Art Workshops…feeling light.
"Courage is the power to let go of the familiar." ~Raymond Lindquist
Just came out of Julie & Julia (like, an hour ago)and I feel the same. I cried while chopping onions afterwards. Feeling good about my life. Wow, thanks J&J…
i’m soooo looking forward to your class at squam!
i think a good purge is healthy ~ i try to do one every season.
~so excited to meet you and Marisa at class next week!
thanks for the inspiration…
and I will miss seeing you at squam this year, but never forget meeting you there last year…
and your book….still at the top of my list of favorites !
it has been raining all day where i live so i cleaned/organized house and creative space. it does feel extra extra nice. i hope i can attend Squam next year. have a wonderful time.
i am soo looking forward to seeing you this week and letting the Earths Alchemy do it’s magic. linda
wasn’t her julia amazing?????? She’s the best. xo
That was on my list today…clean studio! haven’t done it yet, but now I’m inspired! Miss you my friend! Come visit me soon – k? xoxo
can’t wait to behold your magnificent brilliant lightness of being. just as you are. in the forest. with paint. and glue.
xoxo
I really enjoyed Julie and Julia- in fact we’ve gone through 2 brie rounds with baguettes and a bit of wine since I saw that movie. lol!!
I read Marisa’s post, picked up some of the books and realize I’ve been clearing for a while now, but then I re- gather stuff, so I am trying to figure out what’s going on with that. Hmmm… But I applaud your lightness and hope you thoroughly enjoy Squam.