I didn’t get a Four Things post written last week. There was a lot of catch-up to do after being at the beach for ten days, and my work days just got away from me. As I shared at the beginning of this year, my business is also evolving, and I’m still figuring out how to balance blogging and sharing online with working on my books and painting commissions. I feel like I’m slowly getting into a rhythm, though, and I’m trying to lean into the change. As my days have been very full lately, I am so thankful for the longer days and more sunshine!
Here are my four things for the week: exploring charcoal, revisiting a childhood favorite, seasonal purpose, and carefully planning.
what I’m reading
When it comes to drawing, I struggle with line. I have always preferred paint over a pencil, but I do like to practice my drawing skills. So, I’ve decided to learn more about charcoal. I’ve worked with it a few times and have been frustrated with the mess, but I feel like it might be the best drawing medium for me. So, I’m diving into the book Drawing with Charcoal. I just started reading it, and it’s already excellent. I can’t wait to read more and practice what I’m learning.
what I’m watching
Jeff had never seen the 1986 version of Anne of Green Gables, so we decided to watch it together. It was one of my favorite series when I was a kid, and I watched it so many times I still practically have it memorized. It’s been years since I last saw it, so it was fun to watch it again and remember why I loved it so much. Modern remakes haven’t done the novels justice.
what I’m loving
In James Clear’s newsletter last week, he shared a couple of lines about change that really spoke to me –
“It’s rare to find your purpose for life, so instead look for your purpose for this season.”
“Life is always changing. It’s okay to pick a new North Star.”
I’m not looking at these quotes in light of my overall purpose in life. I believe that is to love God and love others. But these words are great reminders of the change in temporal things… in seasons of life and work.
what I’m working on
Oh, so many things! I’m working on preorder bonus material for Move Slow & Make Things while also working on my next book. I’m in a season where I need to plan my days carefully to make sure I’m dividing my time well. I usually spend my mornings reading, writing, and taking care of desk/computer tasks, and then I’ll paint in the afternoon. And, as the weather gets warmer, I will need to make some time for gardening and yard work in the evenings. I can already see weeding that needs to be done.
I’m also back to painting commissions. My queue is longer than it’s ever been, so I’m trying to work through those in a timely manner.
What have you been reading, watching, loving, and working on?
18 Responses
Hello Marion. I read James Clear’s newsletter last week as well. Like you I pondered his thoughts on change and perhaps a new North Star. My main purpose in life is to love and serve the Lord. I am in a different season of life, not exactly sure what it is supposed to look like, however I trust in Jesus. Your portrait of this dog is precious. I certainly do not know the pup, but I think you captured his or her joyous spirit. The pet owners must be thrilled when they receive their portraits. In terms of reading I find myself going back to many of your older posts. It is like visiting with a really wise friend. You are such an inspiration to so many people. Enjoy the warmer, longer days.
Oh, thank you so much for letting me know that older posts are still inspiring you. 🙂 I hope you find your new “North Star” as you love God and others.
Marian, THAT is THE ONLY version of Anne of Green Gables I would ever watch! You are correct … no other adaptation has ever captured the spirit so well. (Or should I say “kindred spirit?”)
I totally agree. The PBS version is by far the best Anne of Green Gables. If you can find The Road to Avonlea, I think you love that, too.
Love, love, love Anne of Green Gables. Matthew said to Marilla, “I wasn’t thinking about what Anne could do for us, but what we could do for Anne.” Oh, my heart! Just a wonderful movie!
We listened to the audio Anne of Green Gables book while driving to Minnesota a few years ago. It was a a delightful way to pass the time while heading north. We loved Anne with an E. I’ll have to look for the adaptation you recommend. Your dog portrait is wonderful. I’m not sure how you accomplish so much in a 24 hour day. Thanks for continuing to squeeze us in! I look forward to your posts and continue to be inspired by you. I love that your blog isn’t constantly trying to sell us something.
As a Canadian, it makes my heart sing that you enjoy this iconic Canadian story! It’s such a joy to watch at any age. You’ve inspired me to watch it again, for the umpteenth time. Never gets old! Thanks for sharing.
I agree that it never gets old. It was such a charming retelling of the beloved books.
I always loved this quote; author unknown.
“Your problem is that you equate your life purpose with goal based achievements. God isn’t interested in your achievements… just your heart. When you choose to act out of kindness, compassion, and love, you are already aligned with your true purpose. No need to look any further.”
More than 25 yrs ago my mom and I would watch Anne of Green Gables on MPT (MD Public Television) every Sunday. It was one of the things we loved to share. It’s always been my favorite version. ❤️
Wonderful quote. Thank you for sharing.
Yes, that is a great quote!
Can anyone tell me how to watch Anne Of Green Gables? What platform is it on? Thank you.
You can find it on Masterpiece/Prime, Roku or Tubi. You can Google anything you want to see and find out where it’s streaming. Hope you enjoy it
Yes, you can purchase it on Amazon Prime or buy it on DVD.
Hi Marian ! What are pre order bonus material relative to your new book which I cannot wait to receive ! I already put it in my Amazon cart ! Tks Irene Kelly
Thank you, Irene! We are just finishing up making them, and they will be released soon. If you’ve already purchased the book, you will still qualify to receive them. 🙂
I wholeheartedly agree that video version of the Anne books is by far the best! As a longtime lover of those books, I, too loved that series. I also want you to know that your Four Things posts inspired me to return to my own blog. I started it years ago to share what goes on here with my family. So, your posts seemed like something that would be easy to do. My version is Just 3 Things and I’ve sort of followed your four topics, adjusting each week to fit my doings. I really look forward to seeing all your posts and ideas and happenings, though. So, thank you for sharing!
Oh, I’m so glad it inspired you to share again! It does seem easier when there are set parameters. 🙂