15 Comments
User's avatar
Alice's avatar

And as a reminder, Leonardo Da Vinci once said "simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

Elaine VanCleave's avatar

❤️

Mark Engleson's avatar

I'm thinking more, too, about relationships and being alone. I've had more luck with relationships the last few years, but I am, as my mom once described my late uncle, a magnet for "every bird with a broken wing." I wish my uncle was still around -- I can't go to my dad for advice. And with my situation - a neurodivergent person who seems to exclusively attract the same (and I'm trying for that, it just happens) -- limits the people who'd have anything useful to say.

Mark Engleson's avatar

And I'm not even sure how many of those guys would be helpful. A lot of checkered relationship histories.

Mark Engleson's avatar

I'm a 45yo man with Aspergers, genius-level verbal intelligence, a comfortable 6-figure income at a professional job, and I still sleep with a stuffed animal and will spontaneously speak in rhyme or alliteration. It's an uncommon situation, and I've had a therapist say I have to be considered as kind of a one-of-one case.

Gay's avatar

Hi Allison

Thank you for writing today. I’m happy your holiday time was easy in just the right ways. Your table is beautiful and I especially like the lights with the birds.

Maiden is a delicate girl for sure. Sounds like you’ve found the right spot for her. Maybe while you’re gone ( if you don’t have someone to pop in ) you might take an old towel, soak it in water and place nearby to help keep the air moist? I’m certain the relationship will work. She loves you already for bringing her home with you.

If I saw a book titled The Healing Places I would be drawn to it. Interesting how you said one art leads you to another. There’s a matriarch in one of the women you have painted.

Enjoy every moment of your vacation. I kinda hope you’re headed to sunshine. Be safe.

Wear a mask if you’re flying.

I have a couple of trips coming up that I’m excited about.

We’ve got a great year ahead Allison.

And yes I agree with the Swedish Death cleansing process.

Take good care

xo

Forgot to mention. You’ll probably laugh. The leaves of Miss Maiden remind me of the opening fans of Taylor’s ERAs tour. Beautiful

Susanna's avatar

❤️🕊️✨✨✨✨

✨✨✨✨🎵

Gina-Marie Cheeseman's avatar

I'm in a process of healing from childhood trauma, and as a result, I am becoming my true self, to use Richard Rohr's phrase. It's magical and wonderful.

Angie Aletha's avatar

Allison, I've been alone for a very long time. I am used to it, after many relationships that didn't work out. I am at peace within, and yet always growing and learning. I know I "look" when I am a bit attracted, yet, know myself too well, and feel safe alone. I can't explain it. Anyhow, your paintings are beautiful. Wishing you a beautiful vacation and New Year!

Rainbow Roxy's avatar

Regarding the article, your line "a smaller one would be easier to lose" really stuck me. It's such a clever and insightful way to put it, making me smile.

Rocket Cat's avatar

I gave my mom a maidenhair fern in humid East Texas, and it survived very robustly on her back porch with no special maintenance for a couple of years. I think it outgrew the pot or soil. They love the shade and humidity.

Jackie Ryan's avatar

For what it’s worth, all of your selves that you have shown us here have been intriguing and lovable, honest and true. You have always been good and you keep getting better. Enjoy your vacation. ❤️

Ch3ch0's avatar

It’s funny how plants can grow without any extra care anywhere outside; as opposed to the moment you bring them inside.

Debra Dreger's avatar

Although not the same plant, the hearty "Northern Maidenhair Fern" (Adiantum pedantum) is a beautiful native fern that should do well in a shady section of your outdoor garden. Its shiny black thready stems and mitten-like fronds are delightful. The plants are impossibly delicate when they emerge in Spring (they look like tiny pink curly worms sticking out of the soil...so easy to overlook and step on). Once they mature and the black stems harden up, they are tough little beauties. Give 'em a try!

Roberta's avatar

I love the word persnickety!