Have you ever seen a bluebird? An instant of brilliance in the quiet settlement of trees? It’s such a gift to see one, especially in the Rockies where they don’t pop up too often.

I saw one this weekend in Flagstaff. This trip was a return for me. Old friends, music, cappuccinos at Macy’s, the breath of fresh air…all beautifully combined to help remind me of who I am. Almost there, I think. There are moments when I want to give in to despair, want to run off and hide from it all

and then I see bluebirds.

A flash in the trees.

So blue it’s almost purple. No mistake.

Bluebirds symbolize transformation, the coming of the Spring after a long Winter. They bring a message of hope. Dawn. The sight of a bluebird lets you know that you’ve made it. You’re there. The hard part is over.

When you see a bluebird, you know the rewards are on the rise from a season of difficulty and darkness.

I finally found a way to start painting.

It’s an ancient form that originated in China that focuses on the technique of capturing the essence, the chi, the energy of the subject rather than an accurate physical portrayal. Brush stroke painting is spontaneous, energetic, quick. The image is created in short bursts, simple techniques. Masters study the simplicity of the technique for decades, learning to let go, to create more from less.

My efforts (um, that would be the first one up there) are simplistic and new, so I am experimenting with digital editing in order to create the memory of the flash I saw in the trees. My medium right now is ink and I’m working with watercolor brushes, traditional Chinese brushes, and bamboo pens.

Do you see a bluebird? If so, it’s a good sign.