Exhale Gratitude

“When Shadow Takes Flight” is my latest piece, created this morning. Yes, I have my comfy chair, my tea, my morning routine back. I have time and space to create again.

I am breathing deep and sinking in to a feeling of… What… Relief or peace or comfort, I’m not sure the exact word. But deep breaths are involved.

Our home is back. Our kitchen remodel is almost done. The last little bits are finishing up today. Last night we were able to cook dinner using both stove and oven, wash dishes in a kitchen sink and dishwasher. The first time for all of that in four, long months.

Such a wonderful, simple pleasure. One I’ve taken for granted in the past, considering it more chore than anything else.

And yet… I can’t help but think I’m a wimp, for finding the inconveniences we’ve borne the last few months as uncomfortable. The phrase “first world problem” comes to mind. I think of the people who deal with much, much less as a way of life. Hauling water and fuel just to subsist.

So my relief is also filled with thankfulness, understanding that what I am viewing as “normal” is really a blessing. That I have a house and a way of life which allows me time and space to create is something I don’t want to take for granted.

This morning, I am breathing contentment in deep, and exhaling gratitude.

P.S. There are still spaces available in Smartphone Art I at Sequoia Gallery in Hillsboro this Saturday! Get the details here.