Inspiration & Creativity-June 18, 2026

It has been raining all day. But it is a perfect time to just sit back and enjoy a cup of White Coconut Crème Tea. Doesn’t that sound wonderful?? It is! Of course, it is even more perfect because I have my sweet cat, Buster, in my lap…that really makes it perfect. He is such a loving little guy.

We have really needed this rain and I have been so thankful that it is not storming…it has been a gentle rain…exactly what all my plants have needed. There is just something peaceful about listening to a soft rain while the world slows down a little. Sometimes I think we all need days like that.

I am in the process of painting pet portraits again. (See my new painting-Gus) Such a joy! I love animals of all kinds. I have even painted a turtle!!! Ha! And I am actually venturing into painting children…that is one of my heart’s desires…to be able to “capture” a child in my watercolor paintings…not posing, but simply being their little precocious selves. It is definitely a challenge though. If I paint a cardinal and get one feather a little off, it really is not a big deal. But with children, one tiny shadow or misplaced shading can completely change the expression or likeness. It amazes me how delicate and important those little details are. But honestly, I think that is part of what draws me to it. I love learning. I love stretching myself creatively and trying things that feel just a little beyond my comfort zone.

Right now, I am mostly painting my own nieces and nephews as I practice and learn these new skills. (They are forgiving!!) Children are so full of life and wonder…and I want my paintings to reflect that sweetness and innocence. I do not want them to look stiff or overly posed. I want them to feel natural…like a little moment in time that was quietly captured forever.

Art has been such a blessing in my life. When I first began watercolor after retirement, I never imagined the journey it would become. Painting has taught me patience, observation, and gratitude. It has made me notice the beauty in everyday things…the sparkle in an animal’s eyes, sunlight on feathers, tiny hands holding flowers, or even a sleepy cat

curled up nearby on a rainy afternoon.

As I think about it: sometimes,  inspiration comes rushing in…and sometimes it arrives softly, like today’s rain. But I have learned that creativity does not always have to roar. Sometimes it simply whispers. And today, I think I am content to sit quietly, sip my tea, listen to the rain, pet my kitten, and be thankful for all of God’s beautiful creation around me.

As always, thank You, Lord God!!