Look for the Learning: For My Mom, Carol

Mom enjoyed my watercolors and gardening so this is for her.

Painful as it may be, a significant emotional event can be the catalyst for choosing a direction that serves us - and those around us - more effectively. Look for the learning. Louisa May Alcott

Taking some time today for a more personal post today....Reflecting, rejoicing, remembering...

My Mom passed away peacefully on a picture perfect fall day last week. Mom was an avid baker (her car’s plate is GR8COOK) so autumn was her favorite season. This "homey" time of year often included making treats, cider and apples, hot tea, reading a good mystery, watching a classic Hitchcock movie...All things I enjoy too.

Mom with our longtime childhood dog Ginger

In a sad week I'm finding considerable comfort considering how much my Mom influenced my everyday life as well as my art. And of course will continue to do so...

My Mom was our family's very own Julia Child. 

Because of my Mom I love color (particularly blue greens), dark chocolate, making soups, nature, the library, black licorice, baklava, scarves, farmer’s markets, tote bags, Macintosh apples, swimming, tarragon, making lists (like this one!), a great bargain (is this every Midwestern Mom??), jewelry, PBS "how to" shows (especially Julia Child) and of course helping other artists learn and master a craft that that they too can enjoy.

 Mom's handiwork on display---Apologies to my brother.

While not a painter per se, Mom was a skilled craftsperson—Knitting, sewing, quilting, hooking (rugs just to be clear). Many of my students in the studio wear her colorful aprons. Speaking of sewing here’s a fun “throwback” photo of my brother and and I resplendent in 1970’s era Mom crafted Halloween costumes.

One of the many fun knitted gifts from Mom.

Interestingly, Mom named me after the Amy (the artist) in Alcott’s Little Women. She also told me once she took a drawing class at an art museum while she was pregnant so who knows? I was likely set on this path from the very beginning...

My namesakes: Amy & Beth

I'll miss you Mom but will you think of you often in the studio as I continue to teach and learn. My heartfelt thanks to students, friends, everyone who has sent me kind notes and warm thoughts this past week. Wishing you all too a happy and peaceful season of learning!