Trying new Media

What’s the worst thing that can happen? I love to try new mediums of art. It’s a blast to discover new ways of making something beautiful, while having fun doing it. Let me just emphasize the fun part! It’s about having fun, not what the results will be. When something turns out nice, all the […]

Looking for a Magic Bullet

I know that a lot of people are looking for healing. Many people hope and pray and expect to be healed all at once, declaring it to be so. I confess I’m looking for that magic bullet too, and I don’t believe in engaging in magic. I’ve been waiting for a miracle and in the […]

Creative Rebellion

“All will be well. What do you hope for? In fearful day, in raging night, with strong hearts full, our souls ignite, when all seems lost, in the war of light, look to the stars, for hope burns bright!” —Blue Lantern (DC Comics) I am an over-educated, arrogant, self-righteous Creative, who struggles with a few […]

Emotions: I CAN/NOT

Whether I “Can” or “Cannot” really does not matter. Not if I’m talking about making art, or overcoming a debilitating CRPS or EDS flare up. I need to focus on what I “Can” do at that moment, and place my “Cannot” where it belongs. Problem is, it can be really hard. When I hear myself […]

This & That

THIS thing is happening to me. This thing exists here and now, and most likely will in the distant future. This keeps me awake at night, and restless in the day. The problem with this is, I cannot help but remember THAT. There was no this in that. That was a time when worries seemed […]

Emotions: The Great Equalizer

Healthy people have feelings too.

10 Talents = 1 Dime

For me sometimes, but probably not for you, a dime found all alone in an odd place is a symbol or sign. A dime is a reminder to me of my natural talents or abilities. When I see a dime, I feel as though God is asking me to remember my talents and that I […]

Waiting for Here

Jana’s Sketchbook No. 9 For the past several years now, I have been in “wait” mode. I have been waiting for a diagnosis or answers at least. Waiting to feel better. Waiting to walk again without pain. Waiting to lose weight. Waiting to get back to work, rather than doing the “work half of the […]

The Creative Roller Coaster & the Sturdy Rock

Jana’s Sketchbook No. 8 Being an artist can be difficult. We artists endure a wider range of expression and experience than many. Our ups are higher than words can express, and our downs go deeper than we would ever wish for others. Add in a few loops and spiral turns and we just want the ride to stop. Does […]