2nd Sunday in January

Portrait for my cuz

My cousin’s birthday just past, I drew her a portrait by referencing one of her online pictures. She was pleased! I’m proud of myself for getting a likeness. It’s one of the hardest parts about portraits.

Cody Drives

During long trips I’ve drawn my partner Cody while he drives. It’s been a great way to pass the time and help me focus on something that is soothing.

My work schedule was adjusted, which means I have more opportunity to work on my personal projects within a routine . I predicted that some of my classes would not fill so I posted more than I wanted to teach just incase. I’m slightly relieved, as I was worried I would be unprepared in planning to teach so many courses. I’m lucky to have the privilege of a secure housing situation, ever since the pandemic it has made the economy hard to navigate, Finding a job where employees needs are met is exhausting as all these big companies have influence on the labor scene. My partner has applied to jobs these past few months and it’s been grinding him down, although some leads have shown up recently which we are optimistic about. The Labor scene is so different now.

Labor should be redefined. I once heard that if you refer to everything as “play” our mindset changes. We love play, we hate work. We pretend to like work, but I believe that we cover up our feelings about work sometimes. “But Allison, there are people who love work!” Well, sure, but I might consider them as someone who likes completing goals or have some interest or passion in the work they do. Perhaps that’s what keeps it interesting to them. I’m defining “work” as a task or duty that is accomplished for someone else. Something expected of you to complete, not out of your desire to create or build.

I find conversations about how we tackle play and work intriguing. Brains are my fav.

On this Sunday I have decided to rest after a week of daily plans and social gatherings. I have been working on regaining balance with my emotions. After going through what I’ve been dealing with this Holiday, I find it hard to feel hopeful that things will get better, but I know that these things don’t last long and will pass.

I wanna thank all the folks who sent us cards this December! We had made lino prints to send out but I have ADHD, meaning it’s going to be sent out late.