I could have pushed myself to work last weekend.  I didn't think I could afford to take a trip. But one thing I know is that life is for living. I don't think I will say on my death bed, "I WISH I would have created 20 more paintings". An artist NEEDS to take time to drink in the beauty of life, take time to observe, to breath, taste, smell and feel. That's part of our work! I did that last weekend with my partner Paul who had 4 gigs in the mountains, enough to make it worth his while to go. We were provided a rustic cabin to stay in and there was a fresh snowfall up there. Oh come on! How could I say "no". We went to Idyllwild, that's in the mountains in Southern California by the way. It is a charming community of writers, musician's and artists. I'm getting to the best part. I woke up at 6am one morning and after writing in my journal, I bundled up and went snowshoeing. I decided to head in the direction that the sun was coming up in. I've never gone snowshoeing but I'd heard about the quietness of it. It wasn't too complicated figuring out how to strap on the shoes. All it took was 10 strides and I knew how to calculate my steps. They were right, the snow absorbs any sound that is inconsequential. As my snowshoes puffed up the hill of white, steamy clouds poured from my mouth. Artistic masterpieces were carefully planned and laid before me like gifts from God.  Squirrels darted across branches flitting snow to the ground. Air streams ran through icy creek beds chilling my face as bird calls echoed through the pine trees. Diamonds glittered on the snow as the morning rays lit them up. I made contact with myself that morning and found clarity in the bliss of life. I may not have as many paintings finished when I die since I take these occasional "time outs", but I think the painting I do today will be better because of my walk in the woods in Idyllwild.