It’s hard to imagine that a year ago, I brought 3 abandoned kittens home. we called this little one Big Brother and though he was the first to explore, he was also the most skittish of the lot. This sweet, sweet boy has a sensitive heart, an aristocratic face and tufts on the top of his ears. Thankfully all of his fear and running to escape has turned into generous purrs and an oft-proffered belly. He is the one that will sit on my lap, keeping me company while I record the podcast or write on the blog. This boy is a heart-opener.
The Studio Kittens Then & Now: Escher
For our one-year anniversary with the kittens, I thought I would share some photos of the journey. This little one started off as Grey and soon became Escher. Though his name changed, he has remained this irresistible toughie. His beauty draws you in but that raised paw keeps you out. To me the first sign that we were making real progress was when I found him sleeping on my pyjamas. Now we can pet him much of the time and occasionally he even comes for attention. He is watchful and quiet and can sometimes be found playing by himself in the kitchen. It’s hard to get to know, Mr. Escherpants, but we keep working on it every day.
The Studio Kittens Then & Now: Shibumi
This Time of Year…
The end of June is a tender time for me. Last week was the third anniversary of my Mom’s passing and I have been feeling not only her loss but also how hard it was in those final moments when we said goodbye.
Also, at this time last summer, we said goodbye to my dear sweet cat Jinx, who had been my constant companion for 20 years. She was quirky, loving and had an impressive meow vocabulary, thanks to my sister Shannon.
Last year, in the midst of all this sadness, I met up with my dear friend Danette for some coffee and comfort. Little did I know that this outing would turn into a brand new adventure, one that would ask me to open up my ravaged heart.
One year ago today I went out for that coffee and came home with three abandoned kittens. It was the last thing I expected and exactly what the Universe prescribed.
This isn’t a story of easy love. These kittens weren’t tiny bundles of fur and curiosity ready to be held and stroked and loved. They’d been taken from their mom too soon, been left on their own too long and were intensely wary of people. I didn’t know if they’d ever settle in or be open to human affection. All I knew was that I was going to do my very best to help them.
It has been an amazing journey and we have all received such love and support along the way, including from all the Aunties and the Uncle who took part in Sparkles last year. With their registrations, they made sure the kittens would get all their medical care, including being spayed and neutered. Our hearts filled with gratitude.
Over the year, these three have become a part of our family: the feisty and playful Shibumi, the delicate and sensitive Scout and the handsome and reticent Escher. They have filled our house with stories, been muse to my inner photographer, immersed us in learning about love and grown our hearts exponentially.
We never know what this life is going to bring. All we can do is show up to all that is with all that we are and hope that we will rise to the occasion and find moments of meaning and love.
stART: Creating As We Go episode 65: Bumpy Roads & Pop-Tarts
In episode 65, it’s time to chat about sharing (or not…), working through challenges (including asking for help!), and lots of awesome jewelry and clay work. It’s a packed episode with lots of giggles and some tenderness too. As always, we talk through projects and challenges and cheer each other on in our creative endeavours.
In this episode we mention:
- Lisa Congdon’s Sketchbook Explorations at Creative Bug,
- Fairy Tale Summer Class by Carla Sonheim
- the definition of Lion Muzzled Clenched Fist
- Jamie shares a peek at her Picture Book
- Suzie’s Pop Tart Phone Cozy and Instant Pot Goodness.
Keep up-to-date with stART: Creating As We Go
Magazines for Collage: An Arabella Flip-through
(If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Artful Blogging Flip-through)
Engage, Connect & Expand Your Visual Vocabulary
Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday morning I invite you Behind the Scenes at my studio.
Today: Exploring the value of cutting up magazines and highlighting books as well as gathering images to expand your visual vocabulary – all while recovering and being gentle with myself.
Mentioned in Today’s Show
Send a photo of where you watch the BTS and you just might find it featured on the show.