July 7, 2019: Humble Places
“Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where often people see nothing.” Camille Pissarro
I’m often asked the question“where do I get my ideas for a blog?” Usually, I’m inspired by something I’ve felt, heard, seen, or read during the week. Reflective thoughts will marinate for a while, and when ready, flow into words. It’s a process that has now become a beloved ritual. Unless we have a show, on Sunday mornings I wake up early, pour coffee into a favorite mug, and sit down with my laptop. By now, the thoughts have germinated into a theme, and I look for quotes for additional inspiration. This week’s blog was inspired by both a quote and a tiny wildflower.
Every Summer, we pack up all of our studio materials and migrate to northern Maine. Situated on a large lake bordered by Canada, we are surrounded by the beauty of nature. Weather permitting, we head out each day to explore the surrounding trails through the woods. I always bring a pair of binoculars and a camera, never knowing what might catch my eye. Through photographs, I’m collecting a history of what’s blooming or changing in the natural surroundings. Guide books help to identify what’s growing or flying, adding a sense of discovery to our explorations.
I’ve discovered that the simple intention of looking for objects of beauty to photograph has fine-tuned my attention, Where normally, I tend to hurry through life, I find on these walks I am both appreciating and noticing more. There are tiny blue flowers I would have inadvertently missed otherwise or the experience of watching a Swallowtail butterfly daintily collect its nectar During this time of extended observations, the troubles of the world seem to fade away. My thoughts are fully absorbed by the sights and sounds of nature and I return home, both my inspiration and spirit renewed.
Bluets Swallowtail on Hawkweed
When we get too caught up with the hectic bombardment of a modern world, we need to remember that the simple blessings of a natural world are gifts to our souls. Whether you head out on the trail, or look out the window and watch how the sun sets leaves aglow, there is a whole world of beauty to discover in even the most humblest of places.
My favorite quote for the week
“Wildflowers can’t be controlled, and neither can the girl with a soul boundless as the sky, and a spirit as free and wild as the ocean.” Melody Lee
Can you tell I’m in my happy place?
*Quilt in photo handcrafted by McNan Pins in Maine