Chino Vallley: the next leg of the journey

Leaving California was a traumatic experience, and I can't say that the first year in Arizona has been soothing to the soul.  I do, however, feel that there has been a positive shift.  I have made some lovely, trustworthy friends here with creative spirits, integrity, and kind hearts.  I have made my way, despite all odds, with a 6 year old horse, a 2 year old hyperactive pup, and a cantankerous old cat.  I have viewed sunsets that could never be painted because the viewer would know you were lying.  I have witnessed stars so low that I can see light years away to only a flicker. I have seen landscapes so beautiful that I was left in total awe.  There hasn't been much time for art making over the past year, so I have had to live a balanced, creative life to stay healthy, breathe deeply, cry loudly, and laugh daily.  I am blessed now with a new muse.  He is a song in my heart, a twinkle in my eye, a joy to my spirit.  I have finished 3 books in the past month as gifts.  A hard-covered beauty for his birthday, a love letter, and a new structure of 4 accordions that transform into a box.  I am happy. I recently looked at a very dear friend who flew in from Los Angeles, and with tears in my eyes, said, "Is it safe to be happy again?"  I was assured that it is, so I have trusted his word, and am living like every day is a New Blessing, a new lease on life.  The grandsons are visiting soon, and I am very excited to have them in my new home.  I want to run and skip and sing songs with Jack, and lay on the floor and let Sawyer crawl around while I nibble his toes and tickle him.  Of course Willow will get in on the act, and will slobber their faces with pup kisses, and Pepito will run and hide in the closet, disgusted with any creature less than 4 feet tall.  A new job is around the corner, and I look forward to a New Beginning once again.  New students, colleagues, parents, administrators. I know this routine, but it is always a first.  I am indebted to the support and love of all of my students, beginning in 1979.  They continue to show me that I am on the right path, and that my work is worthy.  Their texts and visits and Facebook notes are treasured in my heart.  I hope they know that their light and joy has carried me when things look glum and gloomy.  So, yes, it is safe, and I am breathing deeply, and delighted to be happy, truly, again.