Tuesday, February 28, 2012

getting back on track--the bend in the road



Sometimes life takes you in strange and unexpected directions. On August 27, 2011 I had great plans for my business--quilts I wanted to make, shows I wanted to apply for, a studio to clean, marketing I wanted to improve. On August 28, 2011--well, my loyal readers know what happened--and the short story for the others is that my studio floated down the river as a result of Hurricane Irene. No need to go over that again.

Instead I picked myself up with the help of so many wonderful friends, neighbors and strangers, found a new studio and worked non-stop to replace the quilts and fabric that I lost.  After all, what else was there to do? But still I feel like I have gotten off-track. There are all the things I was going to do before Irene. There are still things that I have to do because of Irene. There are decisions that I have to make as a result of Irene. And there are the new quilts that I have designed in my mind--maybe because of Irene or maybe just because that is the direction my art wants to move anyway. 

Now I am not one to hold a pity party for myself--well, at least not too often and too publicly.  And I certainly know that I am not the only artist dealing with the obstacles that life throws in our paths. For a while I was too tired, too dazed to really do anything but make quilts. After all, the first thing I had my DH install in my new studio was my design board.  However, I do feel that finally I have the energy to tackle at least some of these questions so I have decided to begin a series of short blog posts as I try to move forward step by step not at all sure where I will end up or how I will do it.

I hope that not only will this blog help me move forward and get back on track so to speak but that my readers will come along for the journey. I know it has been only through the help and kind thoughts of so many that I have gotten this far. Now I could use the help and suggestions of you along the way also. I do hope you will come along for the ride.

7 comments:

  1. I can imagine what you must be going through, Ann. A hurricane can completely change your world. I lived in Miami when hurricane Andrew came through and had many friends who lost everything.

    It's a long road and I wish you well as you re-create your life and art.

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    1. Thanks Lisa--it is a long road and I need to keep reminding myself of that. I tend to prefer instant gratification--don't we all?

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  2. Ann..so sorry for your loss...I hope you feel the urge to make a come back stronger, more knowledgeable and determined than before...
    My daughter lost her home to the Chilean earthquake a few months ago. I just returned from visiting them in Southern Chile -- amariakindofday.com -- I can see the resilience, I can 'feel' the resilience in her and her family. Yes, they lost much, a house my daughter adored, now she has moved on, to a new one, not like the first, which she handpicked...but better...different...and I feel that is where you are...in the 'better and different' stage, of course, at great financial stress. I also visited my cousin, whose home was also destroyed in a previous earthquake leaving NOTHING to be salvage, except a couple of pictures and their lives. You are an inspiration to many, in spite of Irene....gather strength from the experience and guide the rest of us....
    Maria

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    1. Oh Maria--Your daughter's loss sounds so unbelievably hard. I feel so much for her and are so glad that both she and your cousin have you in their lives. Prayers go out to you and yours.

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  3. I've only just recently started following your blog and I had no idea what last year served you up. I'd be devastated if I lost my studio (not that I really have one) and my work. I hope you find your way again.

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    1. Thanks so much Ms Lottie. I will find my way--that I know--although I am not always sure what it is. I guess that is part of the adventure of life.

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  4. You are not off-track at all. The track has shifted in time and space, as they are wont to do...you are still here, and in the process of your work, a new track will manifest.

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