Usually about now I would be writing about this month’s postcard, a little back story about inspiration, but February’s postcards just went out, on March 2, so I thought I’d share with you a little of the magic happening that isn’t directly postcard related.

I moved to Portland 2 years ago, yes at the start of COVID, so making friends has been, um, tricky? Plus I’m recovering from a concussion that made scrambled eggs of my brain and conversations. (Thanks Caroline for that phrase.

A few weeks ago I was old I can move my studio space to a more private area in the same building, giving myself a little more room to work and fewer folks watching me. Plus I get to share space with Heidi of Shebeast Press and Dom aka Halftone Press, two super sweeties who have been supportive studio pals for awhile. Like most abstract things tossed my way, I said sure, because “soon” means not today and that’s all I can handle.

I continued on with other tasks, trying to go back to work, resting, doctors visits, collage, more resting. When pressed for a more concrete timeline, Adam and I made a plan, that worked with both our work and parenting schedules, fit into the larger studio plan, and we counted it as nearly done.

Then Adam sprained his foot. Which meant no running despite being two months away from a marathon. It also meant he couldn’t push a pallet jack with a 2500lb press on it. Neither could I. I asked for Adam’s help first because he has already moved it with me. Plus my scrambled egg brains don’t offer a lot in the way of strategizing and I wasn’t sure I’d be able to explain to anyone else how to roll this beast 50 feet to its new home.

Heidi agreed immediately. I assured her it would only take an hour or two (HAHAHAHA) and I had all the equipment (HAHAHA) . It went well enough. We had to drive across town to get a second scissor jack and it took us about 4 hours. BUT I didn’t resort to the sketchy bottlejack-under-the-front-of-the-press desperation and I realized I have a friend I can call on to move heavy things. A year ago I realized I have a friend I can call when I suddenly need a ride and a few weeks ago I called someone for an afternoon drink on short notice. Seems like I’m getting the hang of living here.

Oh, Adam’s foot seems better and he is slowly running again. And I took notes on how we moved the thing this time so maybe next time will be even easier.

defying gravity with friendship

chasing waterfalls

Keep Writing #153--Make Rules, Break Rules