For the past couple of months I've been dealing with the end of an 18 year job and the beginning of a new adventure. The transition required that I work both at the same time and that's been incredibly difficult. The end of the job was a good (and scary) thing. I had been burned out to the degree where I had to talk myself into getting out of the car every morning when I got to the parking lot. I had to repeat positive, self-healing mantras on the drive to work each day while fighting back the tears just knowing I had to go there (if that isn't a sign that you're burned out I don't know what is). While doing that, I also began another venture with my painting partner. We've been teaching art classes together for years, we wrote a book together but now we're taking it to another level with our own studio location. So while handling the closing sales of the store and end of the job I was trying to get the new situation started. There's a lot to do to get up and running!
How do you deal with the end of a job and the expansion of a true calling while at the same time wanting to do research, write blogs, write to legislators, work on boards, paint paintings in the adoption series, see family, visit the kids, babysit the grandbaby, oh yeah - I am still married so seeing him occasionally would be nice too.
So, what's the point of all this whining? Just letting you know that I'm still here. There are certain people who can get me fired up, get back in the saddle and wanting to spread the word and they are Amanda and Robin, two of the strongest voices for adoption reform I know.
I may not be able to post as often as I'd like but I'm still reading, I'm still listening, I'm still here. Let's take the money out of adoption! Let's preserve families.
I may not be able to post as often as I'd like but I'm still reading, I'm still listening, I'm still here. Let's take the money out of adoption! Let's preserve families.
I will wait happily for your updates on your adventure, and maybe some advice for my niece who is a wonderful metal sculpture with no direction..... who wants to do nothing more than her art!
ReplyDeleteIt will all be good!
Lori, the best advice I can give your niece is to make the best art she can make and get it in front of as many people as possible. Learn from as many people as possible and an internet presence is crucial - websites, blogs, artsites, facebook, linkedin, selling sites like Etsy, Artfire, apply for grants, enter shows, etc....
ReplyDeleteIt's a lot of work and takes tremendous drive. I don't think anyone should pursue an art career unless they just can't imagine doing anything else.
Tell her to keep making stuff if that's where her heart is :)
You can see updates on our art stuff at www.hershbergerhuff.blogspot.com
<3 you are awesome!
ReplyDeleteWell, the feeling is mutual Amanda :)
ReplyDeleteI have always said that there are not enough hours in one lifetime to read all the books I want, see all the places I want to, do all the things I want to do.
ReplyDeleteAs the other half of Hershberger and Huff Studios, it is my pleasure to work with you. This is out nineth year of working together and I am predicting bigger and even better adventures.