On the Art of Freaking Out

Freaking out, I believe, is a moment of emotional panic that can blur common sense. I also believe it happens in clusters than can diminish in strength.

The clusters are made up of various sizes and durations of freaking out.  On the good side, as they go on, one’s awareness can increase as the identification of what stupid looks like becomes sharper as well as kicking in quicker. One can learn to handle freaking out with great skill. 

To all those (of us) out there on the learning curve of self control during a freaking out cluster or a one time event, please know you are not stupid or emotionally weak. You are not alone. I myself have been there more times than my ability to cope with the shame allows me to admit. (I haven’t kept count.) 😎😂

No, no mobile app today
Medium hot coffee w/cream & sugar

There are times when the world does look topsy-turvy.

The Sparkle of Sunshine

 When the sun shines just right in the trees on a windy day, the leaves sparkle. I stood looking at what I think is a beach or type of birch tree, thinking about how to paint that. There are ways, but none that are better than seeing it happen in person.

Spring is the best when seen outdoors as a physical biosphere experience. 

I was zooming in for a flower close up.
Instead, a beautiful sunny branch shows up.

Sunny morning

Refreshing an art minded altitude

A post started early this morning, edited…

Trying to pull up a visual emotion to paint from is difficult for me. Impact worries take over, is the artwork meant to be or not. Painting a scene as the source of reference has issues, but not as much emotional mining as an image that at first sight of it, was a big wow moment. 

A 40 inch by 53 inch canvas physically feels stronger than  5 inch by 7 inch canvas you hold in your hand.  Bigger impact. 

Now that I can (almost) easily navigate around my easel space to paint again, I’m pondering what I want to achieve instead of what can I do. Do I continue with old projects I let go that were started months ago or start fresh? So, I gave myself permission to just grab what’s around and let worry take care of itself.

Ink & watercolor drawing started last year 
It was on the floor between cabinets. 
Placed in front now for me to see
and consider what next. 

In the photo, my stuff on the floor next to my recliner. Tissue box on the right and charger cord hanging down on the left.  

Reflection Monday May 2026

Thoughts on social media

Change is needed. I stopped spending time on Instagram. For a second or two, I missed seeing how folks and animals are doing. I also thinned out what I watch on YouTube.

Doing others things instead, fluffs things up for me. I’ve learned that not all creators are skilled in being sensitive to their audience. Creators can be so wrapped up in their lives, they fail to consider people are also waiting, wondering, expecting news. 

Viewers have to accept creators have things going on in their lives that they don’t want to or may not be ready to share. When to vs when not to is a fine balance. Think adjustments. 

Telling the audience news, but withhold the particulars, some very basic, until the video next week I feel, is disappointing and hugely inconsiderate.

When things like that happen, I unsubscribe or block. The same on social media as in real life. If you don’t like the service, then don’t go back. People prefer places where the experiences are good. 

Social media can provide perspective. Managing the time spent as well as building favorites helps enhance the experience. 

Wild Violets