You've Been Good For Me

Email from Mom (Monkey) to Ellie:

You've been good for me. You encouraged me to get closer to Annie, and hers is a friendship that I believe will end up being one of the most positive aspects of my life. And you introduced me to a candidate I can actually support, not just vote for because he's "not X". Thanks! 

You know we're going to the island (Annie, Suzanne, and I) on Sept 22-29. Annie suggested we all work on "The Artist's Way", by Cameron. I think you would love it--it's a 12 week (but aspects of it are lifelong) program to help people get more in touch with the creative aspects of their lives. Their are two constant tasks, among other intermittent ones. One is to write, every single morning, three pages--takes about 1/2 hour. YOu're not supposed to edit, or worry about what it actually says--in fact you're not even supposed to re-read it for at least 8 weeks, nor can anyone else read it. It helps empty your mind, kind of like meditation, or get rid of all the distractions and mundane thoughts that flit thru ones mind. Oh yeah, and the other task is to have a weekly "artist's date". That's where you go out with the artist within you--ALONE--no spouses, friends allowed--and do something that the artist within you wants to do. Kind of like "the special days" I used to have with each of you kids. So you can go for a walk on the beach, go to an antique store, create a collage, go for a merry-go-round ride, whatever--just allow the creative child in you to really observe and experience what's going on. Sorry for going on--I just finished my three pages, and I think I got in "the mode" for writing! 

Anyway, you should do it sometime--not now. :) I'm feeling kind of down lately--seeing my mom, feeling so scared and dumb learning how to do medical procedures and ultrasounds amidst all these bright capable people. See, I told you I know exactly how you feel at medical school! But these feelings will pass, or at least lessen, and I'll get better at it. That's the NICE thing about being old---perspective. 

I love you lots, looking forward so much to seeing you guys in October!,
mama