Don’t cheap out
I walked past a bouquet of sunflowers the other day. Just what I need I thought.
But then, the cheapskate in me wouldn’t allow myself to pay the money. What next for a gal who needs a little bit of sunshine during the season when it is dark when I get up and dark when I go to bed?
In the unexpected.
Meet Ingrid Schmelter, an artist from Stouffville, Ontario, Canada. It would seem from her very unique, beautiful approach to depicting the sunflower, she has the skinny on capturing a sunny disposition.
I love how this print is not your typical bright yellow hallo surrounding the big brown face of the flower. Not to mention how she uses real leaves in her art making. Make sure to pay her Etsy shop a visit and look at the photos there of the process. I am in awe of her talent. Just goes to show you that the source of a bright spot can be found in the unexpected.
Make your own.
I have been saving this card to show you for just the right moment. And the time has come. Rite now.
You can almost feel the raised texture of the honey comb and bee popping out from behind the sunflower. As you know letterpress is one of my favorite techniques to card making and smockpaper does not disappoint. These fine folks have many a card that I could drool over.
I’m reminded of the quote, by some nameless yet wise soul, who said, “Some days you just have to create your own sunshine.” Indeed.
Here are 5 things I try to do to combat living with less sunlight during fall and winter:
1) take vitamin D
2) write 1 letter/note a week – spreads good cheer beyond myself
3) exercise – easy with the colder weather not to do this but I hate feeling sluggish
4) try a new hot beverage a week – could be a new tea, some new offering at my local café, and I do love warm apple cider this time of year.
5) in theory, it should mean I get more sleep as I could go to bed earlier…hmm…still working on this one!
What do you do to keep things cheery during fall/winter?
Here in Southern California we don’t really get much in the way of a change of seasons. I’m looking forward to heading to Chicago in a few weeks for some brisk weather. My absolute favorite days are those with a bright blue sky and a fresh layer of snow on the ground. I love the sunflower cards. I’m not sure there is a “happier” flower than the sunflower!
Southern California sounds lovely Mo, although I think I would miss the change of seasons a bit. But, it sounds like you will experience some of that when you go to Chicago. Enjoy your trip!
Those are great tips! I live in Utah, so luckily…most days have at least some sunshine!
Hi Jamie, Thanks. Lucky you in Utah, no dark days and mornings there I bet! Thanks for stopping in for a visit. Glad to have you here.
I try to wear bright colors, because that really lifts my mood. I hate when it gets dark so early! Vitamin D is good, too; it take it all year long. Plus I try to get out and hang with my friends. The social interaction helps so much.
Alison, love your idea about wearing bright colours! Never thought of this. And, yes, hibernation may be good for the bears but now us people folk. Tickled pink that you stopped in and shared your helpful tips! Thank you.