Creating Anyway: Finding Joy in the Middle of it All

Bringing new work to life, even in the middle of everything.

This week, my studio was full of movement, color, and a whole lot of figuring things out as I went.

Not because everything lined up perfectly…

But because I chose to show up anyway.

And honestly?

There was something really beautiful about that.

A Week of Making It Happen

I spent the week printing, cutting, and preparing new work for the gallery—bringing a whole new collection of prints to life.

There were moments of figuring things out, adjusting as I went, and yes… a few “why isn’t this working?” moments 😄

But there were also moments of excitement.

Seeing the prints come together.

Holding them in my hands.

Knowing they were ready to go out into the world.

That feeling never gets old.

Honoring Where You Are

As many of you know, I’m also preparing for surgery in just a few days. And if there’s one thing I’ve been reminded of through all of this, it’s this:

👉 We have to honor where we are.

Not where we think we should be.

Not where we used to be.

But where we are, right now.

Some days that means creating a lot.

Some days it means taking a step back.

Both matter.

Creativity Doesn’t Go Away

What I’ve come to trust is this:

👉 Creativity is always there.

Even when we slow down.

Even when life asks us to pause.

Even when our energy shifts.

It doesn’t leave.

It waits.

It evolves.

It meets us where we are.

Still Creating, Still Moving Forward

Even in the middle of everything, I’m still creating in new ways.

I’m beginning work on a new commission piece.

I’m diving into creative growth with Jane Dunnewold’s Creative Strength Training.

And I’m exploring new ways to share what I love through YouTube and future online courses.

Because creating isn’t just what happens in the studio.

It’s also:

• learning

• growing

• expanding

• imagining what’s next

For You

If you’re in a season where things feel busy, uncertain, or a little out of rhythm…

This is your gentle reminder:

👉 Honor yourself

👉 Honor your energy

👉 Honor where you are

And trust that your creativity is still right there with you.

Closing

Because creativity doesn’t live in perfect conditions.

It lives in real life.

In the in-between moments.

In the shifts and transitions.

In the quiet decision to keep moving forward—however that looks for you.

And sometimes…

That’s where the most joyful creating begins.

Deb Deaton

No Rules, Just Art®