just keep going

I'm having one of those days where I get overwhelmed.  When this happens, I shut down and have to focus on a simple thought, to get rid of the feeling that I might implode.  Today's simple thought is,

  "Just keep going.  Just keep going.  Just keep going.  Just keep going."

I made good progress on the pod over the weekend.  I made a stand, so now it's a little more "plantlike."  I'm having a bit of trouble deciding on the final colors.  I spent HOURS trying to make an ivory/ecru out of the polymer clay I had on hand - and finally ended up with a fairly nice tan.  But now I have lots of muddy grey unsuccessful clay lumps that I guess will be used as structure for other things.  The way I'm going to decorate the stand is also morphing in my head into a jewelry idea...

Just what I need!  Another jewelry idea!

I also have played a lot with finial ideas, but I'm still in the play stage.

I worked on making buttons.  Hmmm, now I can't remember where this idea came from, originally - to make buttons.  I've been carrying it around in my brain for quite some time.  The last few days though, it seems I can't lie down and "doze" or I will have 2 or more ideas for buttons arrive fully formed in my head.

"Dozing" for me is that time just before or usually just after sleep where my thoughts aren't verbal, they are visual, and very free.  I get a lot of inspiration and ideas during this "dreamtime".

Anyway, I had this idea for a kind of "tribal" button, big (2 inches square), and the scarf I will knit to go with it - a simple shawl, draped around the shoulders.  As the idea has rattled around a little, the concept of the shawl and how the button can be used has changed.

But that happens.  My brain (all our brains?) is like a rock tumbler.  Put something in there, and let it tumble around a bit, you're never quite certain what will come out the longer you leave it bouncing around.

And yes, I ought to keep a journal by the bed (or wherever I am napping), and write these inspirations down, but I don't.  I should.  If you have seen the series art:21  <--- this link is to a segment on the artist Richard Serra, and around 6:30 in the piece he talks about how he draws, and the purpose of it, of journaling, sketching, for him.  It's good stuff, that series.  You can see four seasons of the show at www.hulu.com.


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