I've already watched the first four discs of the Monty Python box set and I have Extras Season One on the way. Maybe I will rent Rome next, I love that show and could watch it again and again.
Now is a time where little blee needs a lot of casual care from me. She is happy to play on her own a lot but I need to monitor her so she doesn't get into trouble. So out come the DVDs so I don't go crazy with boredom or spend too much time on the computer. I tried doing some collage cutting because I can do that in the living room but she is going through a grabby stage so that didn't work. I can't even drink a glass of water in front of her without her grabbing at it and screaming when I won't give it to her.
I go to the gym and put her in daycare two to three times during the week and leave her with Jon so I can go on the weekend and that gives me a much needed break.
But my art life has been suffering and I don't know what to do. By the time she goes down I am tired and grumpy and I am just feeling creatively empty. I tried getting back into sketching but I just don't know what to draw these days. Ever since I lost my daily walks things have gotten much worse for my art.
I am just lucky that I used to be super prolific because I have so much older work to keep my shops full. But having some fresh pieces would be nice.
I guess I am going to have to learn to be a stay at home mom without much of an art life for awhile. How long I don't know.
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8 comments:
I'm right there with you. With three at home, I can't/don't make art there, because I'm busy when they are awake, and tired when they are asleep. I do still habitually take my sketchbook home, but that doesn't translate to me sketching. Scheduled time has always been the answer for me in the past. Now if I could just be disciplined enough to schedule some art time. :)
Hope you are inspired soon. I have been missing seeing new work from you.
I totally understand! I went through the same thing with my daughter when she was little. The only consolation I can offer is that it won't last forever!
And if you can afford it, one or two half-or-full days of daycare can do wonders for you. (or maybe trade kids with a friend once a week so you both can get some me-time).
Good luck, I love your art!
It won't last forever! keep strong and maybe try a few other creative projects which you can snatch in 5-20 minute blocks. I know it's super-frustrating but life will definitely improve. Try to establish a quiet time once a day, with an enforced emphasis on it being a break for both you and blee to concentrate on your own things separately. I started this once afternoon napping left the planet and we're still kind of doing it almost 4 years later with some success.
PS: a day a week of childcare is a sanity saver
I hear you mLee! I can use the sewing machine for a while before chubbette decides to try and unplug it. I can embroider for a while on the sofa before she tries to climb up on it.
Daycare is expensive - is there someone in your neighbourhood, a teenager or pre-teen babysitter who wants some experience and a little bit of money, who could come and play with bLee while you are in another part of the house working?
its hard, but things will change.
are there simpler projects you could work on for a while and then pull out the carving when she is a little more independent?
Hey Marissa,
I'm PierogiBaby from TBW. I was just looking through your Etsy store and I adore you art, it's all gorgeous! As for your creativity, if your daughter is taking up a lot of your time, maybe you can try and pull some inspiration from her? Maybe some babywearing pieces..? Also, how old is she? My son is 13 months old, and when I need a break, I put on his favorite show. It's called Yo Gabba Gabba, he loves to dance to it! It's only about 20 minutes long, but 20 minutes of uninterrupted time is a beautiful thing.
Good luck!
Oh mLee- I know where you are coming from. Sometimes I will go a month without making a new piece. Then I will get a creative spurt and make a few pieces a day for a week. London is still into everything and we are battling some new issues now (emptying the dog water bowl all over the hardwoods and his clothes, and the latest undressing in his crib and then pooping...but I hear it is just a phase until then he gets his diaper ducktaped on). One thing I started in the Sept. was a Mother's Morning Out program. He goes 2 mornings a week from 8:30-11:15. It gives me some much needed time to workout, grocery shop, mop and vaccum or just sit and sketch or play on the computer. The programs around me are very very reasonable but I know sometime and in this economy that may not be an option.
Anyway, if you ever want to chat I know how it is. :) Take care
Shellie
yep - mine has come and gone many times over the last 7 years of motherhood. some stages in their lives it is easier, sometimes harder. i am lucky now my 7 yr old likes to create along side of me... but my 4 yr old wants to play with 5lbs of glitter on my desk.
totally understand your woes! but you will find the right balance for yourself. (and when you do - she will change it) :)
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