It’s been raining here in Upstate New York almost every day for the last couple of weeks. I’d planned to take last Friday off and had something special on the agenda. My sister, Bet, and I had our day mapped out - garage sales, lunch and then more garage sales.
The moment we got on the road in search of our first sale it began to rain. We’re a couple of old gals and not easily deterred so we decided to begin our “treasure hunting” in spite of the rain. That’s when it started to pour.
Now, I’ve learned not to fret because of the weather. I know that rainy days can be some of the best days - the most remembered days. What’s more, we don’t have control over many things that happen in our lives and the weather is one of those things. What we do have control over is how we respond to what happens - to us and around us.
Bet and I were together, that’s all that really mattered. So we brainstormed (as we usually do) and decided to head north toward Saratoga Springs. Saratoga Springs is a quaint little town, always bustling with locals and out-of-towners. When “track” season begins in late July and the horses are here there’s an excitement that settles in until they’re gone in early September. In Saratoga you’ll find some of the best gift shops around loaded with unusual things, art galleries stocked with the most exquisite work and fine or casual dining all along the main drag.
Bet and I decided to head over to a local coffee shop and wait out the storm, ducking into a couple of art galleries along the way. The inspiration I found in those galleries is still etched in my mind and I have already incorporated some of this new information into one of the oil paintings I’m currently working on. The ideas and inspiration to be gained by observing and studying the work of others is bountiful. I’m grateful that the rain steered me toward these most superb expressions of creativity that day.
Once we arrived at the coffee shop we ordered our java and perched on our stools while gazing out the front window. Our conversation was non-stop, the coffee steaming, hot and delicious. Before we knew it the rain had stopped, the sun began to poke through the clouds and we’d soon be on our way.
As we headed south in search of the ultimate garage sale, I’d knew I’d already found my treasure that day. The talent I observed in those artists’ works stirred, in me, feelings of inadequacy and determination. Inadequacy, because I know I have lots to learn and determination because I know I’m not a quitter and am motivated, not threatened, by the success of others.
What a wonderful day we had together and in case you’re wondering, we did indeed find our garage sales. A whole slew of them. It was a rainy day and a day I hope to never forget.
Tags: Creative Motivation, Family, Motivation