Monday Morning

The sunrise is peeking through my window blinds, gently nudging me to wake. It is the last day of August and it has been a hot one! I glance at my phone, could this really be today’s forecast? I roll out of bed & hop on my cruiser, the morning greeting me with a 79 degree soft breeze. I giggle, thinking it is almost sweater weather here in AZ… well, okay, that may be a bit of a stretch!

I ride by all of the sweet desert critters I usually see on my route and smile, bidding them all a happy morning. I approach the glistening golf greens where quite a few eager golfers are swinging away. A hummingbird flutters in front of me, almost as if to show me the way. Riding into the sunrise, I continue east.

It is time to turn around and begin my journey back home, the sun now warming my shoulders. Rounding the bend, I spot a pretty lady wearing a breezy blue floral dress. She appears to be enjoying the mountain view. Her face, soft aglow with the morning sun as she stares off into the distance. I stop for a water break and I say hello. We chat for a few moments talking about the nice change of weather, the sparse monsoons of the summer, and how thankful we are to live in such an incredible place. And then, she pauses and says, “We must always, each and every day, take in and appreciate this beauty.” “Oh my, yes,” I say. “Thank you for allowing me to share this moment with you on this glorious morning.” We sit in silence, allowing our senses to soak it all in. I then wish her a happy rest of her day. She smiles, and wishes me the same.

As I ride away, the pretty lady in her breezy blue floral dress stays behind, continuing to enjoy the morning on her cruiser… a wheelchair. Blessings to you beautiful lady! Thank you for blessing me with your lovely presence & the joyful reminder to appreciate the beauty all around us on this early Monday morning, and every day!

♥️Jana

The Laughter!

I got in trouble in the fourth grade. I laughed during a spelling test, out loud. I wasn’t laughing at my teacher as she methodically enunciated each word, (which I remember was actually really quite humorous) rather, I was laughing at the funny boys that sat directly behind me. I don’t recall what exactly sparked their enthusiasm but I know it wasn’t directed toward our teacher as she was a likable gal and very well respected by the class. “I heard something funny and I couldn’t help myself“, I explained. She didn’t buy it. So, down to the office I went. Next thing I knew, I was being swatted with a wooden paddle laden with holes…the paddle that hung proudly in the principal’s office as a reminder to behave, or else. This was the 70’s…definitely wouldn’t fly today.

These two boys were funny, not just during spelling tests but all of the time. It wasn’t the little chuckle kind of laughter produced by their antics but the bring on the tears type of laughter. They weren’t inappropriate, just hilarious… at least I thought they were! I was certain they would one day earn a living on a stage somewhere as comedians. I could say that I knew them back when and had front row seats to their very first show!

Life can sometimes hide our funny bone, stifling our laughter. Maybe we don’t want to appear silly or vulnerable so we become a bit guarded, taking life too seriously at times. Why do we often hold back when we know it is so good for the soul? Granted, during a spelling test isn’t the best timing to break out in laughter but when the funny bone is tickled …I often think back on that day, wondering how different that scenario would have been if our teacher had simply had a good chuckle along with us and then calmed us down before getting back to business. Maybe her funny bone was in pause mode or was lost waiting to be found? Maybe she was having a bad day or maybe she just didn’t have a good sense of humor? It didn’t matter, she did not find the situation funny, at all, and ordered swats… swats only for me, but not for the comedians! I was happy to take one for the team… I don’t remember any tears which was odd for this, never in trouble, sensitive soul! I really think I just needed a good laugh and wasn’t going to let anything ruin that moment.

I am thankful for that day & for those boys! My elementary school days make me smile and remind me that I do love a good sense of humor. I am also reminded of how much I really didn’t & don’t like tests and how much I loved & still love art classes! I wonder if those boys knew what a gift they gave me … they brightened my day with a little levity until the bell rang and we shuffled off to the next class where creativity awaited. Maybe one day, I will see them again so I can personally thank them…thank them for the fun memory they built, the smiles and the great story to hold in my pocket as a wonderful reminder to embrace the laughter! I think I aced my spelling test that day and turned out to be a pretty good speller… most of the time…LOL!

Smiles,
Jana

The Artist ~ How It Began

It was the early 1960’s. I was young, just around three years old… my mom was expecting my baby sister. We were living in a charming little rental house, up high on the south side of Camelback Mountain where only a few homes could be seen scattered about. My dad was painting for a living but getting ready to begin a career designing and building homes in the valley where his art forms would become visible in his incredible architecture.

I remember the big patio on the front of the house where my dad’s easel stood during beautiful weather, which were most days in the Valley of the Sun! There was a stately Saguaro that grew close to the house, so close that the overhang had a hole carved out to make way for the top of the cactus to poke through. The house was surrounded by desert with creosote galore…the summer sunset views were spectacular! It was on this desert patio where my art career began.

There were many fun outings to Simmon’s Art Supplies in Old Town Scottsdale where my dad would let me pick out a small canvas and some acrylic paint colors that I liked (not many 3-year-olds were lucky enough to play with acrylic paints… they don’t wash out easily!) Then back to the patio we would go … I would stand next to him with my big paint shirt on, sleeves rolled-up, ready for business. I would watch carefully as he mixed his paints, held the brush and applied the paint to his canvas. My canvas was so little and so was I, but I felt big standing there next to him! I was an artist! He just let me dip my paintbrush into those colors and paint away!

A few houses later and into my early elementary years, I attended various art classes. One that stands out was a class taught by artist, Earl Linderman, known for his flamboyant cartoon-like figures. This is where I learned and understood that no matter how or what I created, it was right. It was during the bowl of lemons still-life session that this lesson was made very clear to me. I clearly remember staring at that bowl of lemons, scared to begin. I remember Mr. Linderman walking to my side and gently asking what I was thinking. “I don’t know if I can do it right,” I told him. His response, I will never forget, “How you see that bowl of lemons is how you need to paint them, there is no wrong way to do it.” I recall the fear leaving my young body. This art teacher had just given me the freedom to be me, without judgement…what a life gift that was!

There were school art projects and contests entered. There were college drawing classes attended. There were greeting cards created for local stationery stores and craft fairs. Fast forward, there were stage props created and Art Masterpiece classes taught in my daughters’ classes. Then, it was time to get serious about putting my art out there. I was ready to become a working artist! Yikes! It had all been for fun but this decision changed everything! I had made the choice to share my work with the world and put a price tag on it!

I purchased a beautiful wooden easel and a set of acrylic paints & brushes. It was getting seriously real and honestly I was full of doubt. I loved to create so why so much pressure? How are people going to receive my work … remember the lemons , remember the lemons kept running though my mind. Am I going to be compared to my dad, how could I ever create like he did…. remember the lemons, remember the lemons. I set-up my well-lit painting area, all my supplies neatly placed upon my painting table, just waiting there for me to begin.

I dove in… that was 2008 and in 2012 I had my first art show. I rented an empty space, a perfect fit for a showing, with big, blank, white walls and great lighting… it was meant to be. I wanted to be in the space by myself as I prepared for and hung the show …I thought about my dad. It was emotional for sure and at the same time freeing. I wasn’t truly by myself, I felt my dad there with me. The two beautiful nights in October of 2012 were amazing, humbling & emotional. It was my debut….I was now officially a working artist!

A website was created, a blog section was added… my love of writing emerged. Commission paintings were created, art was shown in various venues, intuitive art classes formed and the story continues…. and every time I go to my easel I think about that little artist standing there next to her dad, creating away, feeling like a big artist. I think about those lemons, honoring the artist within me & my teachers along the way….creating & painting, just as I see it! And that is how it began.

♥️Jana
Abstract -Age 3

The Artist ~ How It Begins

People often ask how I begin a painting .. what is my process? I love this question because I feel it helps them to really get to know the artist within me and provides such great insight into an artist’s world. The answer is: it is different for each new piece I create… some just flow and some have to be worked and reworked. Often a vision for a painting will pop right into my head and I will quickly sketch it out before the vision disappears. The sketches stay in a file that I go back to for inspiration and some never make it on a canvas. Sometimes it begins with a hike in the desert, taking in the beauty, the colors and the natural organic shapes that live there. And sometimes, my work begins with tears. Tears you may ask? Yes, tears …. beautiful, cleansing tears that make way for the sun to shine & inspiration to bloom! Tears, a sign of strength not weakness… the honoring of emotions and letting go.

The act of creating comes from deep within. My latest painting began with tears, as I sat in my studio staring at a large blank canvas. I was overcome with emotion thinking about this gift… this beautiful gift to pick out glorious colors that I love and arrange them on a canvas that feels good to my soul. I was reflecting on my life, wanting my art to represent the journey I continue to live out. I thought about how my dad pounded the pavement as a young artist, painting what felt right to him and how he & other teachers taught me to do the same. I thought about how a sensitive soul can get lost in the shuffle of life, underestimated at times. I thought about the heart and how much this small & intricate organ experiences in a lifetime: the pain, the joy, the disappointment, the strength, the fear, the hope, the love and how important it is to feel, really feel, all of these emotions. I thought about what my agent recently told me (I don’t really have an agent, actually a dear friend, smile) “It is time to stop holding back, time to fly!”

And then, with those tears still flowing, now standing in front of that large blank canvas resting safely on my sturdy wooden easel ….with strength and clarity, the chosen colors mixed, I picked up my paintbrush…it just began .. .every tear turned into a brush stoke. And then, when the tears dried, my eyes saw a bold and strong piece. I couldn’t stop painting …I worked on into the night.

The how it begins…. unique to each work…. and with the completion of each piece, an honoring of the artist within me … an artist who wants you to know that a good cry is healing, as for the grace that blooms from those tears is simply magical….

♥️Jana

Moving Forward

We are living in confusing and tough times with unknowns and emotions abound, trying to navigate the best we can. How we personally get through this strange place we find ourselves in looks different for each one of us. My heart goes out to all!

Personally, I have had to dig deep these past few months striving to stay open-minded while being closed-off from the world around me. A few meltdowns have occurred when I allowed fear to take over but through loving friends, I was gently reminded to keep the faith. With everything that is swirling around us right now, I pray that what finally lands and sticks is empathy, love, strength, patience, kindness, clarity & light for all of humanity. I hold on to the belief that there is a grander and a more magnificent plan in the works than we could ever imagine! So I keep moving forward and when this world can fully “open back up”, hopefully even stronger than ever before, I will be ready to face it with a fresh perspective and clearer understanding of my place here on this vast earth.

I believe as humans we are here to help one another, encourage one another and with that comes a vulnerability…. sharing that personal side, the real & the raw, the joys & the fears, the challenges & the successes. My next few blog posts will give a look into my creative journey, my creative process, and the raw emotions that accompany it all. My hope is you will take comfort in my writings & perhaps be inspired to tap into that creative place within yourself… yes, it is there, just waiting to arise and release! We have had to be close to our thoughts over these past few months…we must be gentle with ourselves, taking good care of our tender souls!

I have always loved shadow images. There is a subtle strength, serenity, grace and softness there… a place of stillness, healing and reflecting. Then, as we move out of the shadows, a boldness, a flood of light, a clearer vision appears as we move forward…

Stay tuned for, “The Artist ~ How It Begins”.

♥️Jana

Cruisin’

The warmth of the sun shines on my shoulders and the soft breeze gently touches my skin. I am feeling happy & carefree. My body awakens, taking it all in preparing to begin a new day. My route takes me through desert terrain along the Arizona Canal and then through pristine golf greens. It’s like a candy store for the senses!

On my morning rides, I observe. The birds sing their morning songs. I watch closely and with respect, our Arizona wildlife at play….In wonderment I think how intricate life is and I smile. The cute little desert Meerkat squirrels playfully dash about, popping in and out of their burrowed homes…some sprawled out sunbathing, looking so peaceful. The darling Cottontail rabbits sit and watch with their wide dark eyes as I ride by. The ducks, with their brilliant feathers are wading softly in the water as they bob for breakfast while the sweet ducklings tread water trying to keep up. The covey of Quail, with their brilliant headdresses on, rustle in the brush and scatter about. The quirky lizards dart in and out of view.

Occasionally on my morning ride, I spot a coyote or two running through the green belt or resting on the freshly watered grass. On the dusty canals edge, bareback riders often trot by on their gorgeous, strong, and steadfast horses. I have met some lovely humans on my route like Daisy, Jackie, Barbara and a dad with his cute baby in tow. I fondly call him Mr. Mom…it makes him smile. Human connection & learning about one another… what an amazing gift! And oh, the cute dogs I see, always enjoying their morning walk! On rides end, I will stop and pluck some wildflowers when in season, bringing sunshine and cheer to my home space.

On my evening rides, I reflect…the air is calm and settling, peaceful. The sun begins to fade yet still warm, bringing an array of soft colors to the desert. There is a light haze across the green belt and a golden glow to the water. The temperature drops as my path dips into a wash, a refreshing reprieve from the hot desert day. The intoxicating smell of creosote lingers in the air. My mind is at ease and thinks deep.

I think about my beautiful daughters…their gorgeous souls and the strong bond and love we share. I think about, with gratitude, the dear souls that have always been there for me, encouraging me, loving me through this life journey. Sometimes, on my evening rides, I reminisce of my younger days with lyrics of my favorite 70’s & 80’s songs playing in my head… many times bringing heartfelt tears that roll down my cheeks. I think about the sensitive soul that I am and how I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I stop and take in the beauty of the sunset watching carefully as it descends behind the mountains, noticing the gradual change in hue. I feel the warmth of the glow as if the sun was hugging me… I think about our unsettled world, sending that warmth out into the universe for healing. I think about all that I am grateful for, thanking God for this day and the new one on the horizon… a day sure to be filled with hope, opportunity and wonder …another day to observe, feel, love, create, dream… another day to go cruisin’!

I would love to know what your “cruisin’“ looks like! What are you doing during this unsettled time to bring peace, find joy, have fun? Please feel free to share with me in the comment section!

♥️Jana

Barefoot In The Desert

With gratitude and open to discovery, I go walking barefoot in the desert. The desert can be dry, harsh, gritty and vast. The desert can also be inviting, lovely, spiritual and freeing. I have been blessed to live in the Arizona desert all of my life. This beautiful terrain has brought me strength, taught me perseverance and brought great joy to my heart. The desert has expanded my mind, opening me up to possibilities & opportunities. The desert has given me courage to explore, try something new and to be surprised!

“The Art of Surprise”, also known as Intuitive Art, is the creating of space within to explore, giving permission to self to express without judgment. It is about letting go of the idea of perfection … it is releasing, freeing and healing. I often hear, “But I don’t have a creative bone in my body”… But you do and it lives in your soul! Creating is about bringing out emotion and passions from within. What comes from the soul & the heart through the hand to the paper is pure perfection! Sometimes we feel clogged, stuck, stressed …this art practice allows us to move these feelings through, using art mediums to paint, draw, spatter, paste etc.. It is fun and joyful & can be revisited time and again when a little heart and soul tune-up might be needed.

I am thrilled to announce the offering of classes featuring “The Art Of Surprise“! Trying something new may often feel like walking barefoot in the desert, intimidating & tough at first but then the beauty emerges, the view breathtaking and full of surprises at every turn! I am excited to explore and to walk with you … you will be surprised at what blooms! Click on “Classes” to learn more!

♥️Jana

Shy…

…always have been a bit, not overly but enough to want to set out in my teenage years to understand more about this trait. I wanted to embrace my shyness, not apologize for it but was also aware there were things I needed to work on. I began by enrolling myself in a speech and communication class in high school. Giving a speech in front of classmates was a terrifying thought but knew it was needed. I am thankful for the talented teacher and incredible human in Rose A. Nack… a tiny powerhouse of a woman who embraced the strengths in all of her students. While others may have identified certain traits in us as a weakness, not Rose… she saw the strengths in those traits and in us all!

Looking back, I can see the shyness in me as a young child. I had difficulty approaching others with questions, didn’t like being in front of a camera and I liked my quiet time. I have a pre-school report card that reads in the teacher comment section: “Jana enjoys swinging on the swing set during recess most days”. I am sure that was my reset time after interacting and communicating during class. Amazing at that age, I knew exactly what I needed for my little self to recharge.

There are the characteristics of being shy that can hold us back. When it comes to compliments, I love giving them but have had to learn to accept and receive them. Modesty is a shy characteristic but can be to a fault. While I feel being humble and modest is a good thing, I have had to practice accepting what others see in me and my work. Speaking up and standing up is not easy for the shy type. Speaking the truth in love is how I have approached this one, as that feels good and right to me.

There are many positive things about shyness … it can bring a sense of calm to others around you. People who are shy tend to be approachable. I have often been told that I am a good listener and easy to talk to. I truly enjoy learning about others, listening to their stories and really hearing what they have to say. Shy ones enjoy deep friendships and have a hard time with small talk. Spot on! I love my friends and am incredibly thankful for each one of them…they get me and I get them. In a female, shyness may be viewed as gentle and soft… I embrace this, trying not to let the sometimes harshness of the world change this in me. The ability to adapt & overcome adversity …I really like this strength and it has served me well over the years as I experience the challenges that are a part of this life journey.

I am thankful to my dear mom for passing along the shyness gene. She knew first-hand what it was like & she always encouraged me along the way. I am thankful for the gifts and lessons this trait has brought to my life. I see the strength in all of my shyness, it is a part of what makes me, me. Oh, and I still love to swing & I am still shy in front of a camera!
Embrace what makes beautiful you, you!

♥️,Jana

Of The Earth

I close my eyes… I see sunshine beams, blue skies and strong hands. I picture the tiny seeds placed ever so gently and watered carefully. I feel these hard-working hands in the rich organic soil tending to their gardens and crops … the farmers sharing of their land …growing, harvesting with each bundle picked, a labor of love, a work of art, sent out to us to nourish our bodies and breathe life into our cells.

As I begin to wash and prepare, I take a moment to appreciate how these bundles have come to be and the journey they have been on. I then take in the delicious reddish pink color of the stems and the raw beautiful shape of the deep green leaves. The remaining soil that washes away …yet another glimpse of the origin of these vibrant plants once deeply rooted in the earth. I think about the nutrients contained in each stalk. The preparation is peaceful, gratifying…performed with care & gratitude. I am thoughtful of all the precious gifts of the earth… never once taking for granted what we have been given to care for.

♥️, Jana
Photo: Bundles of vibrant organic Swiss Chard from a dear friend, delivered to my doorstep …another labor of love.

“Train Long”

A beautiful song written by Mike Neal, performed by Faye Davis & Mike Neal live from their bathtub, 2012. It’s about the sweet and simple things in life. Enjoy!
♥️, Jana

LYRICS:
“Trading up, trading everything / I won’t mind losing one single thing.
I want my ocean, I want my garden dream / closer now than they ever seemed.
Train long and winding… winding in.
Hanging back, like I was taught / Oh my hometown sure helped a lot.
Wandering eyes, from all but one / and in those eyes I saw the rising sun.
Train long and winding… winding in.
Lay me down in tall grass / Taste it all before we pass / Hold me close one more time.
Warm waters, middle of the night / Ocean waves in soft, glowing light.
Southern breeze, make me sway / Grace above, carry us away.
Train long and winding… Train long and winding…
winding in.”