Puffy Heart Post

I had a lady last week email me in a panic....she'd lost her favorite necklace.  Just like the one above.   It made me realize that this necklace, although it's something I thought had run its course, still means alot to people.  And means alot to me.  So I made her a new one and sent it on its' way to Dunwoody.  I could hear her excitement coming through the email. 

My Heart is Full.......
Friday night I was interviewed by a young lady who is considering a career in the field of art.  I found myself at a loss of words sometimes, and over zealous at answering other questions.  The bottom line is she asked a lot of questions about being an artist...and then specifically about being an art teacher.  I told her that what other job in the world could I paint, use clay, watercolor, crayons and sharpies all in one day?  Or have portraits drawn of me and love note grafiti all over my white board?  My heart is so very full everyday with joy for what I do for a living.  The pay is not good, I was painfully honest about that.  If I was in a certified teaching position it would be better.  But honestly, the money is not what drives me.  I teach in the most amazing school with amazing kids and co-workers.  Seriously, everyday they amaze me with their talents and energy to learn. 

I've had to adjust my entire life as an artist to teach.  Letting go has not been easy, but slowly I'm learning that it's okay.  (Especially after an awesome tax slap in the face.  geeeeeesh....)  I told her you can do both, teach and make art to sell, paint murals, custom paintings, do gallery work.  You just have to find the right balance.  It's taken me a spell but that's just a part of the learning curve.  Keeps me on my toes.  And keeps my brushes more wet than dry.  I hope my words encouraged her to research her options and to make decisions based not only on what the end salary would be but what would truly make her heart full.