AUTUMN & ATTEMPTS

The fall colors have finally arrived here, two weeks past what is the norm for this part of the country. This next week will see them at their peak. I do not know how anyone cannot appreciate the beauty that autumn brings.

It was on our way out into the country for the chili cook-off that I took in the flaming colors. Countless times on the drive I pointed out this tree and that one to hubby. Goodness, it was incredible. And to top it off by having an absolutely hysterically fun time at the gathering made it a perfect day in all ways.

I visit some journals of those who are artists. Real artists. Talented ones. I am in awe of their creations. Different styles, different mediums, different subjects. It is a treat for me to look at the works they produce. Sometimes, it gives me a feel for each person's personality.

The above painting is one of mine. ::laugh:: I felt it was perfect for this entry because the colors I saw today were some of the same ones in my painting. I am NOT a real artist. My talent is limited. But you know what? The effort is there. The willingness to try to push myself, so one day I might be able to feel like I am REALLY an artist. If that day does not ever arrive? It does not matter. I have the satisfaction of knowing I made the attempt. I did not quit before I started. I did not say, "I cannot do this, so I will not try." Nor will I have tried once or twice and given up.

To me, that is what matters the most...the attempt. How do people know with certainty they cannot do certain things if they have never tried them? I would rather try and fail than not try at all. It is a personal challenge when I take on something new. I am testing myself. And I like it. I have surprised myself in the past during these challenges. I discovered that I CAN reupholster furniture without having the faintest clue beforehand how to do it. I found that I do a pretty bang-up job of restoring antiques without any real knowledge of the "correct" way it is done. I even found I could design a playhouse that is a replica of a real house AND help build it. I do a mighty fine job of putting on siding, too!

Without attempts, we are resigned to staying in a safe zone. It is fun to slip outside of that cushioned zone and see what I am made of. ::smile:: I think I like my substance.

"In some attempts, it is glorious even to fail." ~Anonymous