Waking from a Long Winter's Sleep

I feel like I just woke up from a long bad dream.

I realized I have not posted anything here since November 24. So, just to catch things up, I got a flu shot on December 1. Promptly got flu-like symptoms, and when I got something for that from my regular doctor, I had an allergic reaction to the medication. (Red bumps and cold sensitivity.) A few days before Christmas I had had enough and went to an urgent care clinic.

For the first time in a month I had my questions answered and started to feel better in the following weeks. In the final analysis, the urgent care doctor believed I might have contracted H1N1 (due to the respiratory symptoms) but luckily, it did not get to the level that some people have experienced. I've still got a nagging cough but for the most part I am better. Bear in mind all this started on December 3 and it is now February 7, so two months have passed where I have not been at my full capacity.

The good thing is that I have had some considerable time to do some pondering about my artistic future. Now that my son is nearing elementary school age I am looking at having more time here at home to freelance. Despite my previous experiences, I still want to be my own boss again. More importantly, I want to do what I love. Before, creating maps was great and enjoyable, but the really interesting art was created toward the end of my tenure with my former biggest client. Those were the pieces that I had the most creative freedom with. I also felt the most trusted in my decisions.

Those are the best assignments!

What I really look forward to now is picturebooks and science art. And of course, science fiction.

Having had five years away from the industry, I feel a bit rusty and a little wobbly but a recent assignment has excited me again. It reminded me that whatever my perception of my skills, I can still do the work. I have even learned a few new tricks while I have been "away".

During that time, I was mindful that I needed to stay aware of my field but at the same time maintain my skills. While I couldn't do as much work as I wanted, I do feel that the work I did was quality.

Now I feel like I just can't wait to get back to work.