The Beginning

"Art is a collaboration between God and the artist, and the less the artist does the better." 

- Andre Gide

How should I start my journey? This question has surfaced in my mind for the last few days. Is there a mini art project that would help me to, shall I say, 'loosen up' and get ideas flowing? And, if so, what? Hmmmm.

I am a wife and a mother of two beautiful children. One 2 1/2 years, the other, 3 months. Life has gotten really busy in the Ratteray household, leaving what feels to be little time to just be. So I think, what can I do that would help me to reconnect with myself. The answer... exercise.

This past week was the first of many weeks to come, where I will spend at least 45 minutes, 5 times a week, either walking or doing Cardio Kickboxing. That's right, kickboxing! I love to exercise, and before children, found cardio kickboxing rejuvenating (I think there's something about punching and kicking a bag that is therapeutic). However, I am proud to say that I have fulfilled my exercise goal for the week and I'm glad I did because I feel good!

But, there is something to say about time spent in nature and its ability to take you to a place of inner peace. I had an opportunity to experience that inner peace during my walk this morning. As I pushed my children along in the stroller I thought, wait a minute, my journey has begun. I have begun to take the steps needed to help to renew my mind, my body and spirit. In turn, this balance will help to nurture my creativity.

Activity #1 - Engage in an activity that you love. Commit yourself to doing it whether it be 10 minutes or 60 minutes at a time. Use this time to 'be'. Your creativity will begin to flourish.