Ready For Summer?

It seems impossible that Summer is just now on the horizon. After a very rainy Spring, trees and all things green are extremely lush and full, as if it were already the middle of July. A real perk for us  New Englanders has been a recent block of perfect days, with sunshine and cool breezes. Open windows and the sound of birds chirping have had the cats stationed at screen doors and on window sills, alert to any wildlife or neighborhood "outdoor" cats who might pass by.

                                                                                      Original Cut Paper Art by Judy Hartman

I've been seeing so many beautiful photos of flowers and gardens on blogs from all parts of the country and other countries, but it is just recently that I've noticed my own perennials coming into bloom.

The lilies are bursting out,

while the hydrangeas are timidly showing a few blue blossoms.

Original cut paper art by Judy Hartman

Soon, the whole

 bush will be brilliant with periwinkle flower balls,

and I'll be gathering some to put in my mother's milk glass vase - a summer ritual.

Paper Collage: "Joy rises in me like a summer's morn."

Samuel Taylor Coleridge

I finished up the paper/painted collage I was working on back here. I'm not thrilled with my lettering, but was happy with the result of writing on tissue paper with a permanent Micron pen, tearing the edges, then being able to incorporate it seamlessly into the collage with acrylic medium. That will be useful in future attempts!

Speaking of future attempts, as I've mentioned before, I've recently been considering the direction I'd like to take with my artwork. I had been receiving newsletters from one of my favorite art quilt and mixed media artists, Lesley Riley, and recently signed up for a one-on-one coaching call with her. Lesley helped me to see where my strengths lie, gave me the validation I needed, and encouraged me with solid, workable advice. Now to get to work!! (Actually, I have been doing that!) You can read more about what Lesley has to offer in the way of coaching and classes here, sign up for her newsletter, or listen to her podcasts on Art and Soul Radio.

I'll be taking a break from blogging, from now until July 1, when I'll be back with a new blog design and some new work.

Hope you have an enjoyable first day of summer on Thursday, celebrate all the beauty nature is pouring out on us, and manage to find some time for creativity. I won't be posting, but I will be checking out everyone's blogs and seeing what you're up to! Take care...