PICASSO’S DOG “Blue”

Decades ago, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) curated a display of Picasso paintings that included some from his Blue period. The exhibit expanded my awareness of, and appreciation for, Picasso’s work. Although I loved paintings and had visited museums on two continents, Picasso had always been inextricably linked to Cubism in my mind. The exhibit shattered that link.

Years later, I attempted for the first and last time to draw a picture on the computer. Art is definitely not my forte. My awkward attempt reminded me of Picasso’s paintings, and in his honor, I colored it blue and named it “Picasso’s Dog.”

Museums, whether they curate fine art, culture, history, or automobiles, enrich people’s lives. Visit and support your local museums.

Dirty Little Secrets

Once you’re infected by the writing bug, all bets are off. Lack of self-discipline, poor self-care, and ignoring social commitments hit the top of the offenses list.

I used to adhere to an early bedtime, get sufficient rest, eat properly, and exercise regularly. Seems like ages ago. Now I’m shocked that dawn comes so early when I’ve been writing until 2 AM. Sometimes I don’t clean the kitchen and just put the dirty pots, pans, and plates into the refrigerator to delay the eventual decomposition. ‘Social hermitism’ might not be a real affliction with a legitimate basis in some people’s mind but ask a writer in the throes of a creative streak. You’ll get confirmation.

Fortunately, I work part-time and so far, I’ve been disciplined enough to complete tasks and meet deadlines. But the siren call of retirement has been sounding louder in my head lately. Oh, to be able to write non-stop!