Overwhelmed? Anxious? Running on empty? I’m there. I’ve never felt so un-up to the many important things I’d like to be doing—helping Ukrainians; working toward a more resilient, regenerative world; preventing further global warming; eliminating racism and anti-LGBTQism; improving our healthcare system; ensuring voting rights and safe/fair elections; helping friends who have been affected by any struggle or injustice; helping those I’ve heard about but don’t know personally; and helping those I don’t even know but who I realize are out there—living in a hell I can’t even imagine, and probably doing so with less whining than me.
But what can I do? What can we do? When I’m feeling depleted, the solution for me often starts with a walk, preferably with a friend. Painting is a lovely escape, but it requires inspiration and energy, and walking always revitalizes me. I always return home with my head and heart in a better space and with the energy to carry on.
So if you’ve been in a mood lately, too, here’s my prescription for refueling your soul:
Call a friend and make a walk-and-wine date for the afternoon of Saturday, May 7. (This is the opposite of a sit and whine session). Start with an afternoon walk along one of the many trails at Holcomb Farm in West Granby, CT. (If you have trouble choosing a trail, I’ve been told the Tree Walk is great.)
After your walk, stop by the farm and pick up a plant or two at their annual Plant and Seedling Sale (one for you and one for a mother in your life).
Then swing over to Lost Acres Vineyard (just 10 minutes away in North Granby) for a glass of wine or sparkling water, and see some of my newer paintings depicting “The Land that Feeds Us”—the theme of my solo show of original oil paintings. From 4 to 6 p.m., there will be some noshables waiting for you to enjoy as you sit outside or in.
There’s no admission (beverages can be purchased by the glass), but you’ll have the opportunity to drop a tenner for the chance to name and thereby inspire a painting while supporting the great work being done by the Fresh Access program at Holcomb Farm, which provides fresh produce to families and seniors in need. Should you decide to take home a painting from the show, 50% of my proceeds will also go to support the Fresh Access Program.
Hope to see you there!
Narcissus, 14"x18", oil on canvas