Greetings to all,
 

My biggest hurdle as an artist, and in life is bipolar disorder. This week, after being stable for a month or so, the downward spiral sent me back into the spin cycle.  With an understanding spouse, and wonderful friends, I have the support I need. But it is ultimately a process and journey I have to make on my own.

Art helps me tremendously. I can get lost in my work, and forget that my brain is in a yucky place. The colors and act of releasing them onto my paper or canvas is soothing. And nothing beats a field trip to the art store. Just looking at all the supplies that hold so much promise is enough to cheer me up and out of the worst depression.

But ultimately, patience and waiting are the keys. I cannot change the fact that I have this illness, and need to take meds to try to control it. But I can keep my head high, or when appropriate, eat chocolate ice cream in my slippers and pjs. I am blessed to have a good support network and treatment team - and my art. It doesn't get any better than that.

Artfully yours,
Cathy Harville