Michelle Ward/GreenPepperPress Blog

It's been quiet here on the blog.  I've been active in the studio wrapping up the last phase of an overhaul by clearing up piles, putting things back into drawers or on shelves, and bagging lots of old stuff – unused supplies that will be donated, unwanted clutter that is clogging up the space, and unfinished projects I'm releasing by discarding.  It feels good to see the bags fill up by the back door.  I've accumulated a small stash of debris that will go in my journal – clippings that I can't part with because they are part of a narrative of my creative journey.  While I dislike blocking off time to devote to getting organized, I love the results.  More space opens up on my table and in my mind.  The process allows me to experience closure.  A re-evaluation takes place, and I am clear about the direction I'm heading.  I can part with materials that used to hold value because they no longer fit with what I'm interested in doing. 

As we wind down the final weeks of school, I'm feeling a mixture of nostalgia, completion, and pride.  There are lots of activities – like tonight, where I accompanied Fallon to the Art Show at the high school.  She had several pieces hanging up from her Graphic Design class and her Photographic Design class.  The exhibit was amazing – I love seeing the efforts of all the students, and got to thank the teachers for encouraging my daughter's creativity.  This Friday is prom, then graduation on the 20th.  This precious little thing, who arrived last to complete our family, is gliding right into this milestone with grace and charm and old-soul-wisdom. 

The bags below are holding the dresses she'll be wearing to the two events.  It's a very special time, made even more exciting as she has registered for her first semester of college classes.  I'll be back with prom pics in a few days.

It's been quiet here on the blog.  I've been active in the studio wrapping up the last phase of an overhaul by clearing up piles, putting things back into drawers or on shelves, and bagging lots of old stuff – unused supplies that will be donated, unwanted clutter that is clogging up the space, and unfinished projects I'm releasing by discarding.  It feels good to see the bags fill up by the back door.  I've accumulated a small stash of debris that will go in my journal – clippings that I can't part with because they are part of a narrative of my creative journey.  While I dislike blocking off time to devote to getting organized, I love the results.  More space opens up on my table and in my mind.  The process allows me to experience closure.  A re-evaluation takes place, and I am clear about the direction I'm heading.  I can part with materials that used to hold value because they no longer fit with what I'm interested in doing. 

As we wind down the final weeks of school, I'm feeling a mixture of nostalgia, completion, and pride.  There are lots of activities – like tonight, where I accompanied Fallon to the Art Show at the high school.  She had several pieces hanging up from her Graphic Design class and her Photographic Design class.  The exhibit was amazing – I love seeing the efforts of all the students, and got to thank the teachers for encouraging my daughter's creativity.  This Friday is prom, then graduation on the 20th.  This precious little thing, who arrived last to complete our family, is gliding right into this milestone with grace and charm and old-soul-wisdom. 

The bags below are holding the dresses she'll be wearing to the two events.  It's a very special time, made even more exciting as she has registered for her first semester of college classes.  I'll be back with prom pics in a few days.