In a reflective post, Morag Noffke explores her creative quirks, which are unique habits that define her artistic process. She prefers a tidy workspace for new projects but embraces chaos for ongoing ones, enjoying the ritual of drinking tea. Silence reigns during her creative flow, with her cat providing calm companionship. Inspiration often strikes unexpectedly, demanding immediate attention, while joy leads her to dance during exciting moments. Noffke emphasizes the importance of acknowledging inspiration and allowing creativity to evolve organically.
inspiration
Relationships in Synergistic Communities
In the past, the author viewed friendships as separate from other relationships, perceiving them as burdens. However, their perspective has evolved to embrace all individuals as part of a vibrant community, likening it to a diverse garden. Each person, like plants, holds unique value, contributing to the synergy of social interactions. The author emphasizes the importance of collaboration, kindness, and connection, advocating for community growth and effective relationships that can address shared challenges while respecting individual roles.
Interlude
The author reflects on a serene moment by the Tweed River, enjoying a sunny afternoon after a walk. Inspired by the scenery, including playful lambs and birdsong, they express gratitude through a poem. The passage also notes the beauty of nature's unpredictability, with a sudden hailstorm following the sunshine, fostering a sense of humility.
Slivers of Joy
The author reflects on the importance of taking pauses in daily life, contrasting past rush with newfound appreciation for quiet moments. Through this practice, they enjoy simple joys, like sunshine and birdsong, while questioning activities that enrich their life. Emphasizing mindfulness, they encourage others to recognize their own moments of joy.
The Sun Rises Out of the Dark
"Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark.” – Rabindranath Tagore It is easy to feel weighed down by personal problems or world events but what I know I need to do is turn my face towards the light when the dawn is still dark. Here is my letter-poem … Continue reading The Sun Rises Out of the Dark
We Leave Our Imprint on Others
In the story, the author shares a reflective moment with her cat Pangea, highlighting their close bond amidst life's unpredictability. As she holds her petite tabby, she contemplates her life’s expectations and the potential disconnect between dreams and reality. The muddy paw prints left by Pangea symbolize the unexpected marks that loved ones leave on our lives. The piece invites readers to explore various cat tales filled with philosophy and adventure, celebrating both the ordinary and extraordinary moments.
My Studio Friday: Crafting with Ellie
In "My Studio Friday," the author shares a heartfelt experience of crafting with her daughter Ellie. They repurposed materials like orange peel and toilet rolls into decorations while enjoying each other’s company. A video captures their creative day, encouraging others to embrace their own artistic endeavors and find joy in creativity.
The Challenges of Moving Countries, part 1
The author reflects on the chaotic experience of relocating from South Africa to Scotland, describing it as a "guddle," a Scottish term for confusion. While embracing this chaos, she acknowledges the stress of navigating a new life, learning unfamiliar systems, and sacrificing beloved art supplies. Despite this turmoil stifling her creativity, she found solace in knitting, which provided moments of expressiveness. Ultimately, the journey demands resilience and adaptability, illustrating the complexities of starting anew in later life.
Moments in Nature
While cat-sitting for family, I've embraced creativity through knitting and up-cycling projects, inspired by nature. My poem reflects on the lives of the bee, bird, and cat, highlighting how each embodies aspects of my own journey and connections. Moments of rest and observation bring joy.
Some People Do, Some People Don’t – It Just Depends
I was asked a question: do I and my readers tend to carve out time for their creativity. The short answer is some people do carve out time regularly for creativity and some people don’t. I myself have struggled with carving out time consistently over the years and it is only as I have worked … Continue reading Some People Do, Some People Don’t – It Just Depends
Morag Noffke 