Living Outside The Lines: Staying Creative During Down-times

For the past several days, I've been really very sick. My flu test came out positive, but I have been sick for too long to take anti-virals. I also was diagnosed with pneumonia. And that combination is wreaking havoc on my asthma. So, I'm pretty much confined to my bed right now, and that is REALLY cramping my style, as what I want to do is have time to work on more creative projects. I do have some great books to read, but my idle hands are making me nuts! It can be very frustrating, and, if you're not careful, even depressing. Therefore, I came up with some things I can do, without overdoing it, and prolonging my illness. And, give me a positive attitude, which I firmly believe speeds up the healing progress. I have my idea notebook here next to me, and as I come up with the many things I want to make, instead of getting frustrated, I write them down, and draw out some rough sketches. Part of my daily routine is a long walk, which I can't do right now. And that walk is essential to me - it keeps me grounded, and is such a feast for my eyes, as I look around and appreciate the beauty of nature, then coming home with more ideas. So, I pulled out my scrapbooks that contain pictures of the many beautiful places we have vacationed at. Particularly, I'm looking at the ones I especially loved, close my eyes, and do a form of meditation - feeling the breeze, smelling the clean air, the trees, noticing the several shades of blue in the ocean, etc. And, wouldn't you know it, my idea book is filling up with even more ideas!!!!!! And instead of being frustrated, I'm enjoying reliving some wonderful experiences from my past, while using the same memories to incorporate happiness- while I'm stuck here sick- into my present moment! So, the next time you're outside, or on vacation, STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS! And photograph them too. Because you never know when these memories will bring you further joy......