In going through my archives, a memory of a New Jersey Holiday event brought a nostalgic moment. In my “past life” as a Full-time Working Artist, The Holly Berry  Boutique held each year at the Upper Montclair Woman’s Club in Northern North Jersey was always a beloved occasion for me, my fellow artists, family and friends.

I exhibited my art at that event for well-over twenty years, always looking forward to working with long-time clients and meeting new customers. I wondered if the event had survived the passage of time, so when I looked at an event calendar for that organization, it made me smile to see that it carries on this weekend.

Being so far away from those days emotionally and physically makes me further realize how my life has changed in so many ways. Back then, I was painting on-demand, and selling what I painted consistently. I was a full-time studio artist for nearly 3 decades. It’s a tough life and if I were to resume life as an artist, I would definitely have a different way of working. I’m amazed and inspired to follow and keep in touch with those still “at it”. 

When Rich and I moved to Georgia, there was some talk about trying to reboot my art career there. I participated and helped to organize an art show for our local Woman’s Club which was a great success and even, for a time, had my work on display at a local gallery. 

Now, down here in Central Florida, I am inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds me just outside my window, and hope in time, when “settled” I can go back to my art in a new direction. I know there is a thriving arts community out on the coast and elsewhere, so maybe this coming new year will herald a new art start.

For now, I‘ve gone back to writing daily and just completed a draft for a memoir that has morphed over time to now being one presenting the first three years of my widowhood. In its writing, it is interesting to see process and progress while dredging up the worst and better times. With Non-Fiction, you just don’t write a book, you need a Full Proposal with synopsis, comp titles, marketing plan, bio, chapter outlines and sample chapters. And then there is the all-important query letter which is used to catch the eye of a potential Literary Agent or Editor/Publisher. It is your sales pitch and calling card. I’ve written too many to recall over the years.

I’m about to return to those trenches! I will of course share here, to perhaps inspire others to pursue their interests and dreams, or just to reassure myself that my true story has meaning and may resonate with others or just bring a smile. Of course it’s filled with adorable dogs, so that’s a plus. This week I also submitted a number of photos and written entries for the DWAA’s (Dog Writers Association of America). Annual Writing Competition as I do each year. Best of luck to all who entered. I still remain active with them serving as a board member and Social Media coordinator. 

This past Monday, of course, marked the actual third year milestone of Rich’s passing, so sending out my first official query then, one that received a very nice response, was like getting a hug from Rich. Bonus points to my big pup, Jackson, for bringing a wooden carving of a cardinal to me while I worked; one carved by a very close friend of my late husband who passed before Rich. After, Jackson went over to a kid’s musical toy he likes and used his nose to press a key to play me some sweet nostalgic songs. True story.

That’s why I write, especially about dogs. They always know, in their quiet and loving way, how to make a moment even more special. 

Have a good weekend. Thanks for reading along.