Letting the Art Back In
Dear Friends,
I am feeling a bit tapped out and overwhelmed -- emotionally, creatively, and just with life in general. I think between having a bad season with regard to colds (the one from last week still hanging on...), stress about looking for a place to move to (still no good prospects on that, by the way), and just a feeling of having found myself behind -- one step behind my now more mischievous two-year-old and my almost six-year-old who leaves me feeling at a loss many days, behind in my work around the home, and so on -- I have allowed myself to let the "art" of living step right on out of my life.
So, with that in mind, I'm going to take about a week or ten days away from the computer. For all the amazing inspiration and motivation that can be found in the online world -- and the blogging "neighborhood" in particular -- there are times (I'm sure for everyone, not just me), when computer time seems to take over more than it should. And so a short break seems in order for me.
I am hoping that I'll return here late next week feeling refreshed, with maybe a few projects to share, and a feeling of having let a little bit more balance -- and art -- back into my days. Be well -- I'll see you soon!
xo, Grace
PS: I will be checking my email once a day out of pure logistical necessity, so don't hesitate to leave a comment or drop me a line. I may need to keep responses quick, but I'll be able to "hear" you.






Grace, I am right there with you in what you are feeling. I really like the title of this post "Letting the art back in" I feel like I am wanting the art and rhythm back into my life as well. Somehow Springtime and gardens brings these things back to me. But the waiting, waiting, waiting takes a toll! Be well, I hope you find inspiration in your everyday doings.
Posted by: Nicole | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 04:51 PM
I COMPLETELY understand, and yet I'll miss you.
Take care and see you soon.
xo.
Posted by: Alicia A. | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 05:06 PM
missing you already. (enjoy those living moment, friend.)
Posted by: emily | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 05:32 PM
i meant...
(enjoy those living moments, friend.)
now it's me with the typos.
Posted by: emily | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 05:33 PM
yup, totally get that. don't underestimate the power of the cello to fill some creative void! ;)
have a wonderful week.
Posted by: kirsten | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 05:41 PM
Be well, friend.
I was just thinking today how the computer can suck up so much of my time. Although much of it is for "business" related stuff, it still seems to suck up so much time and energy that is better spent on other things. Thanks for the reminder.
And I LOVE your new banner. What a great reminder of a new season on its way.
Posted by: Bluebirdbaby | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 06:06 PM
may your time away be restorative and rejuvenating! may you bring that art back in, and return when you're ready, my friend.
Posted by: cloth.paper.string | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 06:24 PM
I totally understand...and have been feeling the need for a break myself lately.
Have a lovely, productive and restorative break!
Posted by: Emilie | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 06:29 PM
Good call...I may follow suit.
Enjoy your break.
Posted by: miguette | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 06:56 PM
I know what you mean. The illnesses have just kicked our butts this year.
Posted by: Mama Urchin | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 07:04 PM
miss you already! will patiently wait your return...
Posted by: beautythatmoves | Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at 08:01 PM
I think I feel overwhelmed by everything at least once a month... Taking time off always helps. Take care of yourself and we'll look forward to when you come back :)
Posted by: Cassi | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 12:23 AM
Enjoy your break, see you soon
Lisa x
Posted by: Periwinkle | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 03:06 AM
Good girl taking a break when you need it. We don't mind. Hope you feel better when you return.
You were one of the lucky three picked out of the hat for my blogaversary. Thanks for the comment!
Posted by: tmmorris@bigpond.net.au | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 05:13 AM
smart move. i need to do that every once in awhile, too. hope you get a good rest and some of that balance back!
Posted by: erin | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 06:46 AM
I just had that epiphany myself last week, realizing just how much time this computer escape/socializing steals from my "real life" here with my family. It seems to be a double-edged sword, such a source of inspiration yet it can steal away free moments for our own creative endeavors. I guess that's about the longest way I could have found to say, I completely understand.
Enjoy your time away. Look forward to hearing from you when you feel refreshed!
P.S. Love the new banner
Posted by: Kate | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 07:59 AM
enjoy the break - sometimes the technology holds us down too much.
Posted by: capello | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 08:24 AM
I completely agree - sometimes this computer can act more as foe than friend - sometimes we need a break
Posted by: Kim | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 09:23 AM
Enjoy your time away! I hope you come back to us peaceful and refreshed.
Posted by: melody | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Lots of picnics, valerian and chamomile tea and fresh air.
xx
Posted by: QALBALLAH | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 03:10 PM
So SO SOOO understand!!
might have to do that soon too.
enjoy your break.
LOVE your new look.
Posted by: leslie | Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at 08:55 PM
Have a fun spring break...
Posted by: Emily | Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 07:53 AM
Amen to that, totally ! It can all get a bit too time consuming, wonderful though it is, can't it ? Have a lovely break and see you when you're ready :)
Posted by: asti | Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 09:44 AM
Have a good time away. I don't often comment, but enjoy stopping by for inspiration and smiles. I will miss that while you are away but know have very important a good recharge and renewal is. Take care.
Posted by: Peggy | Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 09:49 AM
Take care of yourself. I really enjoy your blog, but don't often comment (this may be the first, actually). Anyhow, I completely understand the feeling that life is kicking one's behind. I've been feeling a bit of the same, and hearing the same from other friends and blogs.
Posted by: Anna W | Thursday, March 20, 2008 at 09:15 PM
It's a good time to spring-clean our minds! Enjoy your break. x
Posted by: Emma | Friday, March 21, 2008 at 03:06 AM
Grace, I very much relate. Enjoy your time away from the screen... Look for signs of spring. Happy Easter!
Posted by: Caren | Friday, March 21, 2008 at 07:05 AM
Soak it all in , friend, and know that we are thinking of you and wishing you peace and lots of snuggly moments to refill the well!
Posted by: Stefani | Friday, March 21, 2008 at 07:41 AM
Wishing you a great break- I just got "back" from one that coincided with a vacation. I think it's important that we as bloggers do this...I know I've come back just bursting with ideas again. There is nothing wrong with filling up the gas tank, especially the momma one! When I started to think of it that way, I rarely ever feel guilty about saying "no" whether it's family, self, or business related. All the best...
((and yes, I confess, I finally delurked!))
Posted by: Joy | Friday, March 21, 2008 at 08:34 PM
Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt. It's around here somewhere, probably under that mountain of laundry I am ignoring while I read your blog =0P
Have a good rest, see you soon.
Posted by: Jeanette | Friday, March 21, 2008 at 10:07 PM
Enjoy your break :)
Posted by: Felicia | Sunday, March 23, 2008 at 02:12 AM
Crap! I just discover your blog as you are taking a much needed break. Oh well, the archives will just have to do for now:)
Posted by: Jennifer | Monday, March 24, 2008 at 04:41 PM
I enjoy reading your blog so very much Grace, take a well earned break, and hopefully you'll be able to come back refreshed and ready to take on the world at a slower, less stressful pace. Please don't feel you have to respond to my comment :)
Posted by: Alicia Ryan | Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 01:03 AM
You are so wise to give yourself this time that you need.
Take as much time as you need and know that there are so many people out there that connect with you and have been inspired by your honesty and loving spirit.
Blessings to you and your family this spring season.
Colleen
Posted by: Colleen | Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 08:48 AM
Your robin makes me itch for spring... Enjoy your hiatus.
Posted by: Liz | Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 01:23 PM
Hope you are feeling a little more balanced soon. I love reading your blog and know how hard it is to maintain one, esp. when you aren't feeling good. Take good care!
Posted by: carrie | Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at 09:29 PM
I hope you are starting to feel more inspired and joyful.
Posted by: Stacey | Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at 11:41 AM
Enjoy your break and come back refreshed.
Posted by: Ellen | Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at 09:45 PM
breaks are heaven-sent I think. From anything. It truly is always best to recharge, and reignite the mind to make it work at its best. Enjoy your rest!
Posted by: kate | Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 04:38 PM
Hope you get much needed rest. Also wishing you the best with the house search, I know how difficult that can be.
Sending blessings your way, Nichole
Posted by: Nichole | Friday, March 28, 2008 at 09:38 AM