Winter Days

Measure of Beauty (Construction Series) by Johntimothy Pizzuto

Foretold Series, no. 2 by Patti Roberts-Pizzuto

Johntimothy and I have a series of routines that vary only by whether it is a weekday or a weekend day. Despite the pandemic and the travesty of what has happened over the last year, we have realized that we are truly creatures of routine and our pared down life suits us. We spend time in the studio, cook, read, take walks outside when weather permits and move briskly about inside when it doesn’t. And we watch the river, appreciating the view at all times of the day and in all seasons. During the week, he is involved in preparations and teaching and I am stationed at my little desk off the kitchen, working remotely in my day job with the university. But there are still the daily practices we each undertake, with a little time eked out in the studio and a often bit of time carved out for reading.

Sometimes, over breakfast, I ask Johntimothy what’s on his agenda for the day…and of course, we both laugh, because it is the same as the day before generally. Our routines bring a level of comfort and continuity to life and the structure allows our creativity to blossom in the studio. I find I get so much more done in a day when I give myself the structure and framework to accomplish the things I want and need to do.

I know that with the constraints we are all under, due to the pandemic, many folks are bored and at a loss for things to do. But I find that there still are not enough hours in the day. So many books to read, so much work to explore, not to mention films to watch and things I want to learn. While it is easy to become paralyzed by the fear and tragedy that unfolds around us, there are still infinite possibilities around us to find joy and creative energy. Even from the spaces of our own homes, we can begin to explore almost anything, either online, film or in print. It only takes a measure of curiosity and whole new worlds unfold before us.

And now….back to my current reading adventure! Have a great week!