Wednesday, November 09, 2005

Ferncliff---here I come!

Oh-- it's been the most gorgeous foliage this past week! I've had the pleasure of driving "over the mountain" (to Hot Springs) and once further up the interstate on errands and such! And, the colors have been stunning!! Surprising considering the lack of moisture we've had all year that there were even any leaves left on the trees at all! It even inspired me to get my Rebel out and snap a few pictures-- and send the Olympus off to repair the flash unit.

Why is it that picture images are so very vital to me?? I can't even begin to explain that-- but, by framing a composition and trying to achieve the right lighting that just completes a part of my that I can't define. And, then-- to further document the image by embellishing it with paint, ink and paper-- oh- that's really satisfying! And, that is why I look so forward to going to scrap retreats! Besides the friendships!!

Ferncliff is a beautiful little Presbyterian church camp not far from Pinnacle Mountain. It's what is termed as "cozy" and a bit like primitive in comparison to other retreats that are offered. I think the name alone inspires creativity and an ambiance for an artists getaway! From what I understand- the history of the Ferncliff crop is just a few friends looking for a cheap getaway. The waiting list has grown every year since! I've been on the waiting list for three years- I'm finally IN! Friend, Kim, is also "in" and we start our trek Friday.

This week should have been spent packing and pre-planning page kits... but- I decided to reorganize (complete with new tables and floor and shelving lay-outs) my studio. WHAT A MESS!! But- for some strange reason- I couldn't seem to THINK in the other configuration.. so- maybe NOW I can think through the mess and get some stuff found (of course, I've lost it all in the organization process!) and packed and get outta here! I also got an appointment to have my yearly gyno- check up and got an opening in the UAMS seminar weight-loss program; so-- I'm multi-tasking as well. I just hope I don't forget to pack the important stuff for the retreat... bed roll, pj's, some make-up(?), make home-made sweet-treats, argh... I'd better make some bigger lists.. and somewhere had better find some more time!!

What first sounded restful and peaceful is now looking like a looming stresser!! UGH!! How could THIS happen?? Oh. wait. Calm down. Deep breaths... think fall foliage... think.... lovely pictures... think... I don't have them PACKED YET!! ARGH! Gotta run workaround!!

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