Sunday, August 23, 2009

FOUND ~ A New Hobby






Images by Me :)

I don't know about you, but between being a Mom and working, I let some of my interests fall to the wayside. Growing up I sketched and painted almost daily but put my paintbrushes and sketch pad away and barely touched them for years. On and off I've taught kids' art classes, and then of course I've planned and "tested" creative projects for my students. But on the whole, I really haven't pursued a creative hobby in a long time. It makes me a little sad to think about it, and it's a struggle to get started again, but I've been making an effort to do ONE creative thing a day, even if it's small.

Yesterday I took out my art supplies and discovered that "hey, I can still draw"! But when I began painting, it didn't come so easily and I left the table feeling a little discouraged. O.k., time for Plan B. ;) A few years ago my husband bought me an inexpensive camera for a college photography class. I ended up not taking the class and haven't done much with the camera since. I've always loved beauty and nature and posting all these amazing photos from talented photographers on Simply Hue has inspired me to pursue photography. So, yesterday I picked up my neglected camera and took the above shots. I'm actually semi-happy with them. lol. They're not perfect, but for a complete novice, they'll do.

What can you do today to bring richness and creativity back into your life? My hat's off to those of you who have managed to stay in touch with your creative side while raising young children and/or holding a 9-5 job! Maybe you can let the rest of us know how you do it. xo

19 comments:

  1. beautiful. love the flowers especially, think it has something to do with my former florist job. if you are ever down on yourself for not being creative once a day remember how lovely your blog is and there are people out there reading it and inspired by it. To me, it is a form of art. I just love taking photos for my blog to write a great story. So much fun!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks, Kim. :) I guess it is a creative outlet. I've just been dying to get started on drawing and painting again and I have a real mindblock. I appreciate your encouragement!

    ReplyDelete
  3. These are gorgeous! I especially love the first one. We do not have any little ones yet (besides our pets :) And I'm lucky that my 9-5 job allows me to take little breaks throughout the day and read inspiring blogs such as yours to keep my spirits up! I am trying to improve my photo skills and think it would be really fun to spend a day with a friend who has skills in this area and learn more.

    ReplyDelete
  4. lovely photos! Being creative while going to work, doing the laundry, cooking dinner ... it is hard! But it definitely helps me keep my sanity! I make sure to do something creative or inspiring every day - even if I only have 10 minutes to browse quickly through flickr - that helps!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Just gorgeous, Vicki! That last one in particular is breathtaking.

    How do I bring creativity into my life? I dunno--that's a tough one! The blog helps, for sure, but sometimes it starts to feel like yet another job! I used to do a lot of needlepoint and i'm looking forward to the fall when i can get back into cozy mode and take it up again!

    ReplyDelete
  6. That's great, Anne. I think you have to be a very patient person for needlepoint and I'm not! lol. I would love to see something you've done. :)

    Thank you for all of your kind comments and suggestions! It's a little intimidating putting these photos up since I'm just starting out as of yesterday. lol.

    ReplyDelete
  7. These look so fantastic Vicki! I really love that last one. I am off to fave that one too!

    ReplyDelete
  8. they look wonderful, vicki! you have a great eye. keep going.

    ReplyDelete
  9. They're great! Love the second pic! Keep it up, I love taking photos, no matter how novice they are, it's such an easy and fun way to be creative!

    ReplyDelete
  10. i like your style :) for me, the blogging (writing, photographing, and designing) really helps with the creative balance. i'm creative all day at work, but i'm forced to be ... if i want paid. but it's a different kind of creativity at home. freeing, in fact! i get done what i have to then allow the rest of the time to let my creative juices flow for as long as they need to.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Beautiful photos! I love your idea of doing one creative thing each day. I have been trying to stick to a similar plan most of this summer. It is so rewarding once you make the effort!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Vicki, I love your barn photo! You are one skilled woman. Keep up the good work.

    ReplyDelete
  13. You are such an encouraging bunch....thanks! ;)

    ReplyDelete
  14. I have been traveling and am behind on my favorite blog reading...but goodness this post gave me a chuckle -you are SO creative! I cannot believe these photos and your blog honey -is gorgeous- which is a direct reflection of your creative capacity everyday. I do love that you want to paint again etc. so doing a little new creative gesture daily could be fun for you. you rock.
    xo

    ReplyDelete
  15. Aww....thanks, Leslie. You're such an encourager. :)

    ReplyDelete
  16. You're a natural, Vicki: these are gorgeous, every one!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Great photos.......I LOVE the first one!

    ReplyDelete
  18. vicki,
    wow. these are AMAZING! i knew you had this creative talent within you! thanks for your great courage to show us these. i especially love the florals. so pretty. and what a way to celebrate your new discovery.

    ReplyDelete
  19. It is so hard to find time ! I feel the same and recently started The Artists Way ....again after 10 yrs . Already feeling the effects! Your photos are beautiful . Keep going.

    ReplyDelete

Thanks so much for your comments. Your thoughts, opinions, and ideas are important to me!

~ Vicki