Coloring Outside the Lines |
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[Editorial published 9/4/08]
Hi Everybody,
Young children have no shortage of imagination. Yesterday my little one kept her hand in the air for an entire [short] car trip because she was "holding onto a tree". I wish my mind could fly with hers but, personally, I've been having trouble. For years, I've been barely able to tap into my own imagination. This block started in college and has become significantly worse since I became a parent.
Lately, my mind is almost solely focused on the literal world. When I wake up, I think about which tasks I'd like to complete for the day. I am stuck "coloring inside the lines". My husband would like us to pursue creative projects together (creating children's books, video games, etc.). Back in the day, we both had original ideas and wild conversations. Lately, I've just been an editor to his proposals.
To get over this hurdle, we've decided to change our environment for September. He's taking time off work, we're cleaning out piles of clutter from the corners of our home, and I'm not publishing newsletters for 2-3 weeks. We're going to share more creative time together, whether it's playing music, watching movies or exploring games. I'm going to try to tune out news and tidbits and instead fill my head with non-task-oriented thoughts. I aim to Color Outside the Lines with the kids — having the patience and open mind to connect with their imaginations.
To help get started, I've acquired an Anti-Coloring Book*. Each page is meant to facilitate creative thinking (examples). Designed for kids, I see no reason why adults can't benefit equally from these exercises. I'm looking forward to being well-rested, leaving the TV off, shutting down the computers, and not worrying about chores. I pray that once I get my mind jump-started and open like it was years ago, I will be able to connect with my kids, husband and myself in a new, deeper way.
Related Links:
+ My favorite discovery at the library this summer was the imaginative book, Iggy Peck Architect* about a free-spirited boy who's creativity saves the day.
+ Earlier this year I was delighted to discover these break-out artists: 3-D Sidewalk Chalk Artist, Julian Beever (online gallery - my favorite is his Batman/Robin in the bottom right); and Lego brick artist Nathan Sawaya (CNN clip, online gallery).
+ Last night while searching dozens of sites to populate the GreatIdeasForKids.com calendar, I came across Boulder artist, Susan Beloian (public exhibit, artist's site). Her "natural" mobiles captured my imagination. Perhaps this Fall I can collect branches with the kids and see what we can balance together.
Take a few minutes to browse their incredible work and I hope your mind enjoys the journey "outside the lines".
May your days be filled with laughter,
Jill
* You help support GreatIdeasForKids.com when you shop at Amazon after clicking thru one of our product links or using our Amazon search box. Thank you!
In my home, we use Amazon Prime to enjoy unlimited (free) 2-day shipping with no minimum purchase — it is even free when I ship gifts to other addresses!Try Amazon Prime for free for 3 months.
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Last Updated ( Sunday, 12 October 2008 )
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