old anxieties
wind tugs at browning leaves
time to let go

Happy Thanksgiving! I was recently reminded of this lovely poem fragment by Mary Oliver:

“Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.”

At a Halloween party twenty years ago today, a slinky black cat crossed paths with a tall, blue-eyed sea captain. The sea captain had an exceptionally kind and intelligent face, a warm heart, and a great sense of humor.

And so I met my future husband, father of my children, partner in life adventures, and best friend. Happy 20th anniversary to us! And it’s palindrome day to boot: 11-02-2011.

Dear Friends,
I’d like to share with you the latest exciting news about Makino Studios.
You’re Invited: Artist’s Reception During Arts Alive
The October 1 opening for my first solo exhibition was a wonderful event. Heartfelt thanks to the hundred-plus people who came and enjoyed my collections, “Haiku for Dog Lovers” and “Aha! Haiku Insights.” Here is a blog post with thoughts on the opening, and here are photos on the Makino Studios Facebook page.

Cocoon hangs empty,
Security traded for
The beat of new wings.

What a wonderful opening for my first solo show last night! Well over a hundred people came through, and my work seemed to really touch them. I loved seeing people respond to my pieces, smiling or laughing, sometimes tearing up, calling friends over to share favorite pieces.

Below is a press release about my first solo show, coming up on Saturday, October 1. If you live in the Humboldt area, I would love to see you there!

Playful Art Show Features Haiku and Paintings for Dog Lovers

Dear Friends,

Well, it’s been about a year since I first began writing haiku and making Japanese ink paintings to accompany my poems. And it’s been about six months since I launched my Makino Studios website to share my work.

I wanted to take a moment to thank those of you who have given me support and encouragement on this surprising, scary and exciting journey of becoming a poet and artist. Special thanks to those who have purchased my work; it's so great to know it has touched you.

Whispered message
Of each new wrinkle and gray hair:
Rejoice! You’re still here.

I found myself reflecting on this piece before my thirtieth high school reunion recently. Probably like all my former classmates, I felt some anxiety about how I’ve aged since graduation, while trying to keep those new wrinkles and pounds in perspective.