I stayed up very late the other night watching election coverage.
It was so nerve-wracking, I had to do something besides watch predictions and “paths” and the shock of the reporters as they announced each state’s decision and electoral numbers.
I wanted to do something pleasant and think pleasant thoughts. The happiest thing that came to mind is our sweet grand baby who is due any day now. As I thought of her, I thought of stuffed animals and cute animal characters. I thought of soft, cuddly teddy bears. And then I decided to create a teddy bear like stuffed character of Charlie, our furry adopted boy.
In the wee hours of the night/morning, CharlieDog was born on a 10×12 sheet of Arches 300 lb cold press. He has chubby chipmunk cheeks and curious cherubic eyes. His chunky belly is plump and soft and snuggable. He has one ear up on alert for Cliff the Mailman or Mike the UPS man or anyone delivering pizza!
Art has become such a calming, stress-relieving outlet for me. If anyone out there thinks they would love to draw or paint or create, but feels they aren’t “artistic” enough or don’t have any formal training, or have never tried, or whatever your reasons might be – just do it. Don’t let your mind tell you that you can’t. I would have said that a year ago. Do it for the joy. Do it for you – not anybody else’s approval or praise (that part was/is a struggle for me that I am getting much better at). Do it to create your own kind of beauty. Do it for peace and love and goodness – for yourself or someone your share it with.
Focus on things that make you happy, bring you peace, express joy, demonstrate love. Small acts change the world. Be your own kind of beautiful. Make your own kind of art or sing your own special song. Do your thing! Be you!
#FocusingonPeace
Cheers & Hugs,
Jodi
Aww, want to just hug him! Great job!
I was actually coloring in one of those adult coloring books as I watched the Election results. Like you said, had to do something to relax! 🙂
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A Charlie-bear! And I so agree about the creativity outlet…a couple of years ago I had no idea I could take pictures!
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This is absolutely adorable, Jodi! I can see this hanging in your granddaughters nursery! Sooo cute!!! — People are really upset over the election results and I hate to see our country so divided. It was a nasty election that made people very emotional. I hope he is able to bring us all together again and unite us as one.
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Thank you Jodi for this very special post today – I smile. And thanks to Charlie for being such a special dog. Happy Thursday! 🙂
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I’m so glad to make you smile buddy!!! 🙂
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Adorable! Cheers and hugs to you Jodi.
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🙂 thanks susan
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Great art work! So adorable! I’m hoping my art is someday a calming stress relief. Right now, it seems kind of stressful, since I’m such a newbie. Little by little, I guess. (I hope). Take care.
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Honestly – I felt that way in the beginning too! try not to be too hard on yourself. I always wanted to create something wonderful right from the beginning. Simply enjoy the freedom if you can 🙂
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CharlieDog is a delight and would bring a smile to anyone’s face!
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Thanks Kathryn! 🙂
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I hope this will be framed and hung in the nursery, it’s too adorable Jodi! Your art has changed and grown so much over this past year, you should be super proud of yourself!! You are definitely fearless!! Bravo!
Jenna
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I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that Jenna! I so admire everything you do!!
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Love the chubby cheeks on your Charlie Dog!! 💖🐶❤️ Glad you have found art to be a stress reliever! I find it helps me too! I still like to get positive comments on my art though as it makes me feel good! 😊🎨👍
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me too Jill – trying not to worry about it -but it is always nice 🙂 ❤
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Does the real Charlie get some treats for modeling fees?
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Thank you Ms Kelly for recognizing that! Mom says since you brought it up – YES! YAY!!!!! Love, the REAL charlie 🙂 ❤
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Jodi, Outstanding job with Charlie Bear! You give great advice,saying to create for yourself and for joy and importantly peace. The last few days I’ve tried to do this with my writing, to write for joy and peace despite the election. No matter who is in the White House, we can be instruments of peace and kindness in our corner of the country.❤️
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thanks so much Mary! and you are right! Keep on keepin on! Being wonderful you!
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He’s so cute!!! With his coloring and one ear up and one ear down, he actually reminds me of my grand-dog, Frankie. But I bet your Charlie is quite proud to be the true model.
And I second your thoughts on art and creativity. Making something, no matter what the medium, is a wonderful way to deal with stress and anxiety. Too many people hang back because they don’t think they have the required talent, when all that is really needed is the desire to create. And when we choose to create something happy and positive, that’s one step forward for all of us. Thanks, Jodi!!!
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Awh! I’m glad he reminds you of your grand dog – bet that made you smile! And thanks for your ongoing insightfulness and encouragement! Happy Day tomorrow! I’m thinking to myself ……. What a Wonderful World!… 🙂 ❤
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So cute, and wonderful message
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Thanks Lynn!
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Oh, gosh – super charming and sweet!
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Awh! Thanks Cynthia!
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