Day 29, Small Pause, "Timeout"

Carefree, 6x6in. Oil on linen/panel.
Painted En Plein Air in MacLellan's Brook, Nova Scotia.

Available Here



Today's Small Pause...

After being very busy the last two days completing domestic chores and projects, I felt like I had been in continuous motion. We have been blessed with an extra warm October day, so I decided to set my to do list aside and sit quietly on my back doorstep for awhile. 

While I sat in stillness, I suddenly realized how the roles had switched. I was still and nature busily flitted on around me. If I had not become an observer, I would not have noticed the abundance of ladybugs. They were soaring through the air on my deck, landing on objects and even me. 

I smiled with amusement as they crawled along my arm, tickling me as they ventured along. Chickadees were extremely active and entertaining as they ate from my feeders. A large blue jay landed on our outdoor umbrella, initially unaware of my presence. It was rejuvenating to just " stop" and become aware of the present. To slow down the pace of life and sit quietly in time out.

Interesting Autumn Shadows

It is easy to forget the importance of becoming still when the demands of life drown out the silence. Remember to slow down;  your inner self will be thankful!

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. If you have subscribed to my Small Pauses Blog, I apologize for my long absence. I was involved in a 30 paintings in 30 days challenge and it kept me hopping! I literally did not have any extra time to write this blog along with my other one. However, I continued to observe small pauses on a regular basis. My posts should be more frequent again. Thanks for your patience!

P.P.S. You may also like to Subscribe to my free Fine Art Ezine and Fine Art Blog. Thanks!

Day 15, Small Pause, "Light Dance"

Welcoming Spring, 4x4in. Oil on linen/panel.

Today's Small Pause...

I love late afternoon light as it enters my kitchen. It transforms objects into statements of beauty as it strikes their many shapes. Today the light transformed fresh tulips into a spectacular vision as it danced between crevices and folds of petals. It illuminated sections of petals until they appeared translucent. Interesting shadow patterns added to the drama as they contrasted with brightly lit areas. 

I have always found the striking of light fascinating. Today tulip greens became a brilliant lime green, while light pink petals shimmered and glowed. My eyes roamed up and down long stems and over petals as I observed the affects of  the late afternoon light. It was a moment to relish as it would be short lived. Soon the sun would shift and the light dance before my eyes would fade.  Being open to these brief moments adds depth to one's day allowing joy to step in.

Warmly,

Debbie

I would love to hear your thoughts or small pause today! Please feel free to share in the comment section below. 

Day 7, Small Pause, "Wall Shadows"

Free Flow, 24x12in Oil on wrap canvas by Debbie Lamey-MacDonald

Today's "Small Pause"...

Upper shadow is from an Amaryllis which is about to bloom.

After a busy morning completing domestic chores, I enjoyed a nice break in the morning sunlight. Light streamed in the window, lighting areas that are often in semi-shadow. Suddenly, my attention was diverted to a wall shadow. So subtle and soft, it swept across the wall, magnifying its source. Interesting diagonal lines and numerous subtle grays captivated my attention. My mind began to muse over the puzzle pieces that initiated these interesting shadows. As an artist, noticing every day subtleties often leads to future creations.

Warmly,
Debbie


There is always an open invitation to share your "Small Pauses" in the comment section below. Wishing you special moments in present time!

Day 6, Small Pause, "Visitor Captured"

My elusive visitor.

Today's "Small Pause"...

My elusive visitor returned today! While I was busy working in my kitchen this morning, I happened to catch a glimpse of him below my bird feeders. I have been waiting for several days to spot him so I could snap a photo of our gorgeous pheasant friend. 

He only makes one visit a day, so I was delighted to unexpectedly witness his presence today. It was fun to watch him shuffling through the snow hunting for seeds. His chicken like behaviors made me chuckle. His head darted up and down as he scratched the snow periodically. 

Full body View.

Look at those tail feathers!

I enjoyed viewing his beautiful markings and wonderful colors through my camera lens. Witnessing his visit today was an unexpected surprise that made me smile.

Warmly,

Debbie

P.S. Share your "Small Pause" today in either the comment section or on your own blog and link it to this blog via the InLinkz button below. I would greatly appreciate it if you mentioned the "Small Pause" Blog in your blog post as well. Thanks so much and wishing you special moments in your day!

Day 5, Small Pause, "Early Morning Sky"

Today's "Small Pause"...

While on my way to work this morning, I was struck by nature's visual beauty. After yesterday's snowfall, we awoke to a clear winter sky. A beautiful light infused the horizon, magically turning land and objects a pink, violet hue. The sun's brightness lit up vertical and horizontal edges of buildings making them glow. 

I began to mix paints in my mind, thinking about what colors I would use to replicate nature's gorgeous palette. I imagined my brush painting glazes of color and sweeping it over land masses just like mother nature. It was a wonderful image I tucked away in my mind for future inspiration. 

What was your "Small Pause" today? Join me and share it in the comment section below!

Warmly,

Debbie

Day 4, Small Pause, "Gentle Snow"

A gentle snowfall in Plymouth, Nova Scotia.

Today's "Small Pause"...

There is something incredibly peaceful about a gentle snowfall. Today I felt a great sense of peace and contemplation as I watched tiny white flakes drift gently to the ground. This type of day reminds me of a whisper. It is cozy and nurtures a slower pace. I very much enjoyed this small pause as I sipped on hot tea in the quiet of my home. 

A meeting of doves during a gentle snowfall.

Join me in sharing your "Small Pause" today in the comment section below!

Warmly,

Debbie