Patterns, Awareness and Simple Gifts

Clouds over backyard hillside-photo by Libby Fife

Nature's glorious patterns. 

Maybe it's too much reading of John Muir lately but I was sure struck by the show in the sky this morning. Who needs additional adornment?

This week I published my monthly art newsletter. In it, I advocated for the simple act of observation with your six senses. The simple act of trying to notice anything in your surroundings with just one of your senses can really awaken you to what's happening. It creates an awareness. 

So, notice those clouds in the sky? Yesterday, as I sat in my studio, I realized that all of a sudden I could smell the wet cement outside. Since it is summer and dry and hot, it seemed crazy to smell any kind of moisture. Sure enough though, I looked out the window and our rocks in the driveway were indeed wet. What an unexpected gift. And I mean not only a little moisture but also the fact that I took note of things. That seems like extra icing on the cake.

Libby