Wednesday, June 9, 2010

The Best Kind of Present

Tomorrow morning I have my first actual painting class. It's a plein aire watercolor class and I'm taking it with a few friends.

When they first suggested it my first thought was "I can't do it". There were too many obstacles. For one thing, it's in the morning and I have a little boy at home with me. Then there were the materials, I had none. That's right a studio filled with art materials and I had none of the supplies. Oh, except a kneaded eraser and pencil. So there was cost involved there too. I really didn't think I'd be able to participate- it seemed too hard to make work.

But here's where the wonderful comes in. Out of nowhere my mother in law (the watercolor artist) decides she no longer needs some of her supplies. She's upgrading or they just aren't ones' she would use. Would I like them? I thought I must have told her about the class but no, it was just one of those amazing things that happen. Paints and brushes, check. Then my husband says he can work from home when I'm at the class. Babysitter problem solved- just like that.

Everything that I thought would keep me from this class has just fallen into place. Even down to the gift card to Michael's some friends gave me, and the 40% sale they just happened to be having on watercolor paper. God is making this work for me and I am so grateful. Sometimes it takes everything falling into place for me to see how God is moving in my life. I mean I know he's there when life is hard, and I lean on him then. But receiving a gift, which is what this class feels like to me, is one of those unexpected gestures that shows love. Like your dad sticking a $20 in your wallet when you're not looking. It's giving simply because you care.

So although I was feeling pretty nervous about this class, I also feel certain it's going to be a great experience. I'll let you know how it goes. :)

15 comments:

Sandy Byers said...

Jen, that is so GREAT about your class working out as it did. Have fun and enjoy your art-self!

Gina Lee Kim said...

OMGoodness. I am so excited for you Jen! I think that vulnerable/fear reminds us that we are living & growing.

You'll have so much fun! Watercolor is my favorite medium. Please do post your painting process. So glad you're taking it with friends. We are your friends too :)

A - Zinnia Productions said...

This is exciting Jen! I am so happy for you! What a wonderful gift to receive and also, the painting class is a fabulous gift you are giving to yourself. I hope you have lot's of fun. I would love to see what you cook up! oxox Zinnia

Unknown said...

wow, how wonderful. i love it when things just fall into place like that, the water color class was meant to be! have fun.

Rebecca E. Parsons/Cre8Tiva said...

jen...have so much fun with your class...it should be a world of fun painting plein air......just winging in from flying lessons...great to connect

blessings, rebecca

Single Stone Studios said...

God rocks ;)

Katie @ makingthishome.com said...

Yes! I love how all the little pieces came together for you. Just expressing yourself and really letting loose will be so much fun - especially because you have a friend doing it with you.

I feel like I am always happiest with life all around when I have a class or creative activity scheduled that I "must do".
Katie

Cristi Baxter Clothier said...

That is so cool, Jen! It was meant to be that you take that class. Have fun!

Dana Barbieri said...

That is so great when it all works out! You were certainly meant to take that class! Have fun!

carol gourley said...

Wow, I had a little happy tear in my eye when i finished reading your story. It is amazing when those things happen. It just reaffirms your belief.
Can't wait to hear about the amazing time in your class.

Terri said...

Only God! His hand is all over this, and His gifts are the best! He wants you there. I'm interested to see what He's going to do through you.
Blessings,
Terri P.

Katie said...

What a touch of fate about the watercolours! I hope the class went well!

Jen said...

The class was Wonderful! We ended up getting rained out but the instructor did show us how to do alot of stuff before that happened. This weekend I'll give it a go myself. I'll even be brave and post the pic. :)

Kristy's Art Corner said...

Hi Jen, Thanks for the inspiration in our e-course today. Your words were truly a blessing to me. BTW watercolor is my favorite, I always ask God if I can be a watercolor in heaven :)

Unknown said...

Jen-just had to let you know that I love your blog, your art and the way God gave you the gift of watercolor. Watercolor is my fave too!!! Wishing you a great journey-- see you in "flying class"