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Beautiful post and beautiful art Susan. I am in awe of your ability to complete these challenges but also in awe how transformative they have been. I think I need to consider a daily practice... but my inconsistency always feels like the biggest hurdle.

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Hi, Linn, thank you!! Great to hear this has sparked some inspiration. You know, you can always start with five minutes a week practice and work your way up - that’s what I did.

Also, you don't have to commit to 30 or 100 days from the start; you can talk your time! Part of the fun and creative journey is discovering what that practice can be for you.

Now, I'm curious to know, what practice are you thinking to explore?

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Sep 23, 2023·edited Sep 26, 2023Liked by Susan Jimenez

First of all, you saw an octopus while snorkeling in Croatia? Amazing! That would inspire creativity for sure!

Congrats on starting your 100 day challenge. I love seeing how your art evolved from the first challenge through the last one. And thanks for sharing about how your dad (as an artist/and also the grief of losing him) impacted your art journey. (I also lost my dad and art helped sustain me.)

I understand the reward that comes from the simple (but not-so-simple) act of sticking with something. Of showing up each time even when the work doesn't come easily or it's just bad that day.

I'd say showing up on Substack for the last 9 months has been a similar challenge for me. Nobody is making me do it. Nothing bad is going to happen if I skip a week. Sticking with it has helped me appreciate the fire in me to create that never goes out. So often the reward has been the sheer act of creating itself. Everything else is a bonus.

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Hi Aimee!! I did spot an octopus in Croatia once, and so its it's true what they say; the early bird catches the worm. Interestingly, it's been on my 100-day art list, and I've been eagerly waiting to paint an octopus again!

I really appreciate you taking the time to leave a reply; it means a lot to me. I've never openly shared that particular story about my dad before, and I was so tempted to delete it after I posted it. However, your reply made me think it was okay.

I am sorry for your loss. It's reassuring to hear that you've also discovered solace in art for healing.

Consistently showing up on Substack for the past 9 months is such a wonderful testament to your dedication and passion for creation. Creativity is sure a journey and I'm so delighted that you're sharing your creativity and art with us! xx.

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I mentioned a bit about my Dad's story in my newsletter this week and it always feels vulnerable to do it in a space like this. How much to say? How little? I've had it on my mind to talk about how creativity has shown up for me in times of grief. Maybe I'll write that soon.

Looking forward to following along with your art challenge. I'll keep my eye out for another octopus.

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It is a tricky subject to get around and there isn't a definitive blueprint for what one should or shouldn't express, as you've rightly pointed out. I'm really curious to know how your creativity and grief have come together in your creative expression. That’s if you feel okay about sharing it.

And I need to work on my octopus, but now I feel the pressure, lol!! ☺️ 🐙

Thanks Aimee!

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I decided spontaneously to do the 100-Day Art Project, too :) I read about it a couple of weeks ago and thought how amazing it would be to do something like that, but I was worried I couldn't commit to 100 days. But this week, I told myself I would give it a try. I aim to journal one page and at least 5 min of drawing practice. I'm learning to draw, which will help me immensely to practice it daily. Most mornings, I draw for 30 minutes; once I get started, I enjoy it. :) I also printed a habit tracker to tick off every day to keep me motivated.

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Yes!!! Oh, this is music to my ears!!! What inspired you to do the 100-Day Art Project? Was it something I wrote or from someone else? Either way, yay!!! You can do it. I believe in you!

It's good to start small and use a sketchbook; it's very wise. Don't feel that you have to fill out a page every day though; if it doesn't happen, it's okay to just open the sketchbook and just make one line (I did this when I struggled with the challenge).

Also, having a dedicated time is very helpful, and I love that you printed a habit tracker. I did this for my first challenges; they're fun to fill out. I can't wait to see what you create! xx

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