Notes on Returning No. 10
Watercolor painting has become my latest hyperfixation. I can carry them almost anywhere and they are quick little paintings producing alpha waves to soothe my ADHD brain. I’ve found painting so meditative and it’s a release of joy as I dip my squirrel hair watercolor brush into the Japanese paints onto thick paper. I’ve learned a lot through the daily repetition of this new practice. You cannot be too harsh with watercolors. You have to put a small amount of both paint and water on your brush to get the right effect. I usually freehand all of my work and rarely have a vision in my head when I begin. Instead, I let the brush take me places and if I mess up, I mess up.
Its been so freeing. And fun.
It’s easy in the middle of life transitions to stop and remember to just have fun. We are called to be like little children if we want to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. I think painting is one of those ways I am able to blend worship and co-create with the Lord. Max has been following along and paints beside me. It’s so special to get to do these little activities with him. I’ve taken him to so many art galleries over the last year. He’s always so patient and just looks at the paintings and sculptures with awe!
People are oftentimes surprised by his calm behavior. I let him run around in spaces that are kid-friendly, but when we head out he understands (most of the time) to be observant and involved in the activity we are doing. He usually is happy to have his snacks as he rides in the stroller or is seated at a table. Then we expend energy in spurts to keep us both happy. We usually stay busy most of the day and I think that allows him to be a two-year-old while also involved in my life. If I’m cleaning, he wants a broom. If I am painting, he grabs a brush. Including kids in the smallest of activities builds so much confidence for them.
He even picks flowers, not just outside but from a vase in the house. I don’t get upset. Instead my heart lights up because he is drawn to these little remnants God gave us. I hope one day he fills his own home with pastel roses or peonies to just admire a simple gift from heaven. As I close today’s Notes on Returning I encourage you to try a simple creative activity each day for the next few days. See what sparks your heart into feeling more joy!
