Plan B...

Wilted Sunflower
Photo taken June 2012
I took this photo just before we left for vacation. Even in it's wilted stage, I still think it is beautiful.

It's been a long 3 months and I've kept strong and optimistic however I''m alo a realist. That's why I've always had Plan B on the back burner. I hoped and prayed that I would continue to get better however I knew there was the possibility that I would have some long terms affects from the stroke.

Both doctors I've seen  agree that my vision issues are permanent at this stage.  My new glasses came in on Wednesday and although eyesight is a bit sharper, impairment still the same. I will continue to seek answers however it's time to try and get my life back to as normal as possible. I've been collecting items to aid my vision for several weeks and doing as much as I can around the house and yard. I've also gotten back into my studio some. I cannot do anything detailed but I can paint and have worked on a few backgrounds. Sharp objects are kept at length and my wonderful husband cuts out anything I need. I also realize that I may never get to drive again but again my husband has said over and over, he will take me anywhere I want to go. I'm extremely lucky. Creating has been a bit frustrating and slow going but I just keep at it. I need it to keep me sane.
I know how very lucky I am and I thank God, every day. I'm still optimistic and we are seeking second opinions but as a realist, I'm prepared to do whatever I can to live a normal life and create the art I love., that's my Plan B.

I've shared all the art I had finished before my illness and I look forward to sharing new art with you soon. As I mentioned, it's a much slower process for me now but I do as much as I can each day. My eyes also get very tired after a few hours of painting, so thankful I can still paint. So very thankful.

Cottage Love...

6 x 6 canvas

One of the pieces I had finished before I got sick.

I went back to the  Neuro Ophthalmologist yesterday and had more tests done. My vision field has improved and there is no damage to my optic nerves  however my vision is still impaired. She agrees with the Neurologist that the vision issues are a result of the stroke rather than the disease. It affected the area of my brain that controls my vision. Getting new glasses that will help with some close up vision however probably will never drive again. I'm ao thankful for the healing that has occured and will learn to live with my new limitations however I am in the process of seeking second opinions. It will be a slow process to create again but looking forward to doing whatevere I can once I get my new glasses.
The journey is still on going.

To plant a garden...

is to believe in tomorrow. Audrey Hepburn...

6 x 8 on watercolor paper

acrylics, vintage papers & images

peeling paint technique

A lot going on right now as we are preparing to move, this will be our last until we retire. We have finally found a place that is as close to perfect as we are going to find in the area we want to live. It's small and maintenance free and is just what we wanted, living area, kitchen, 2 bedrooms (or 1 bedroom and studio) and a bath. It also means we have another round of downsizing to do. Time to sell, donate and trash. We've already taken a full truck load to a thrift shop run by our local Humane Society, a very worthy cause. Needless to say that internet usage will be limited over the next several weeks however when we get moved, I'll have 24/7 access and will be able to blog on a daily basis again. I've missed that so much the past year and one of the main reasons for our move. I've already begun working on a website.I will try to pop in from time to time since I will still be creating throughout the move. Wish me luck!

Have a super weekend.

Taking a break...