08/11/2026
Unfortunately, I had to make the decision to withdraw from one of my favorite art shows this weekend… the Mount Gretna Outdoor Art Show in Pennsylvania. I have absolutely loved this show the last couple years, and I’m so sad to not be out East. I know it’s the only show I do in this area of the country, but sometimes… life happens.
After all my talk about needing to slow down and make more time for family, friends and myself…. It’s time I actually did it, I think. July was a BUSY month- two back to back art shows, along with some personal things going on with my family… left me with less studio time than needed in order to make this next show happen.
I’m sad to miss this one, and the people who I have been looking forward to seeing. At the same time, I hope there is understanding and something really important you can see from this.
I got to spend more quality time with my family, my husband, and friends. I’m not as continuously stressed as I usually am this time of year now… trying to be in the studio for 10+ hours a day. ( Which is not healthy … I see that now haha)
I have even started doing something just for me again… learning jiu jitsu at a new gym called Apex Labs Jiu Jitsu ! At first, I felt downright guilty for taking 2.5 hours out of my day to drive there, take a class, and come home. I haven’t worked out regularly in a long time… and it scared the s*** out of me, to be honest. But it’s been one of the best things for me, mentally and physically. I decided to not give up.
So while there is sadness/guilt surrounding the cancellation of a show, and what that might mean in the future… there is also a feeling that I made the right decision. It could be a sign that my July schedule needs to change next year, who knows. All I know is that the most important thing we can do every day is adapt, reflect, and learn. I never want to be caught in the same cycles that aren’t creating balance. I want to get better every day. Love you all ❤️
P.S. This beast of a new piece is so symbolic of what I’m going through. How does it make you feel?