36 Comments
User's avatar
Beth L. Gainer's avatar

Ron! I am so happy to see paintbrushes and a setup for painting. I know it's not checked off your list yet, but painting is the best type of play in my unbiased opinion (LOL). I'm hoping this activity will give you a fun outlet. As we discussed from your reaction to my essay, there is certainly hope and I think you'll find joy there.

I have had to-do lists for years and love them, especially when I check a task off. Painting is always on the list.

just mud by Ron's avatar

Beth, thanks for your considerate insights. I've not often allowed myself to enjoy art. I did a little beach diorama with water, sand, sky and clouds for our anniversary, and it was fun! Like you, I think I am a bit more drawn to the texture and swirl of the paint. Creating a scene, as you are doing, is surely a whole 'nother level. Your perspective on always learning is not lost on me!

Jim Cummings's avatar

I misplaced my to-do list so I started a new one this morning. So far: Find to-do list.

just mud by Ron's avatar

😂 Hopin' you can't find it!

Jim Cummings's avatar

Not searching too hard.

Sharron Bassano's avatar

I used to have a TO DO list. But now I rebel against being told what to do. I now (seriously) have a DONE list where I keep track of things I accomplished in a day. "Swept floor. Responded to emails. Cleaned out junk drawer. Wrote a poem." I tell you, reviewing that list feels so much better than the one telling me to get my ass in gear. Just saying...

just mud by Ron's avatar

I know; climbed that hill-check!

Jim Cummings's avatar

If by chance I do something that wasn't on the list, I write it down then cross it out.

Sharron Bassano's avatar

That is so ridiculous!

I've done that too.

erniet's avatar

I treat my retirement like being 5 again...playtime, mealtime, exercise time, nap time...can my friends come out and play?

It's annoying when I actually have to do some adult thing, like fix something or make an appointment or go shopping...😂

just mud by Ron's avatar

It is annoying- right!

C.J. Heck's avatar

I adored this write up, Ron, and I LOVE the photos, especially the last one. That little girl just captured my heart with her smile.

Thank you for sharing!

just mud by Ron's avatar

Thank you C.J. You're surely welcome. Yep that little one was having ‘some fun!’

C.J. Heck's avatar

You’re welcome, Ron.

C.J. Heck's avatar

Great post --I love your photos!

just mud by Ron's avatar

That makes me happy, C. J.! I once wanted to be a photographer! Thanks for your kind words. 😏

C.J. Heck's avatar

You’re very welcome, Ron —you can still pursue photography you know. You have an eye for it.

just mud by Ron's avatar

I appreciate it, C.J. Alot of the pics inspire the posts.

C.J. Heck's avatar

💕❤️ I can see where they would inspire.

Joan Stommen's avatar

How do we know our “ playtime” is not just laziness or procrastination? That is my conundrum 😅I try to get one necessary/adult kinda thing done each day…laundry✔️…and then write, organize, dance, read. Reading and writing on Substack has become my go-to. Okay to consider that necessary play!? 😁🤔

just mud by Ron's avatar

No judging here, Joan! As a certified daydreamer, I try not to admit to laziness or procrastination-probably use contemplative as my descriptor! But getting one adult thing done is probably helpful. Sounds like you're building play in there too, and keep up that writing when you want. We like it! 🙌🙏❤️

Joan Stommen's avatar

😅contemplative! That’s my new favorite word! You always know just what to say, sweet man! Hugs for making me smile once again! 🤗😊

just mud by Ron's avatar

🙏 so welcome!

Hannah Holm's avatar

Amen!! Play is not “extra.” I’m good at making time and space for others to play, but not so much myself…I definitely need to play more.

just mud by Ron's avatar

Yesss! I can imagine the crazy days with you and your family’s adventures! It's ok to facilitate that play for ourselves. One writer, Julie Cameron, calls it a ‘play date’; a permission to do a thing fun for us. Go play!

Hannah Holm's avatar

I think play is a habit and a mindset, at least when you’re an adult, and I’m far too out of practice! I like the idea of deliberately scheduling it. I’m going to try that!

Night Owl Christian's avatar

Paint and play! Love it!😍

just mud by Ron's avatar

Yep, let’s go find some paint!

Brenda's avatar

Looks like a cozy, creative spot you have there!

just mud by Ron's avatar

Trust me, it doesn't generally look this way! Thank you, Brenda!

Brenda's avatar

I do understand…creativity kinda spills outside the lines doesn't it!

Sharron Bassano's avatar

Wow! Sounds like a great plan, Ron. You may be onto something. Stress relief through finger painting. Let us know how it goes!

just mud by Ron's avatar

My goal is the end picture, Sharron!

Sharron Bassano's avatar

Easy peasey

Kim Smyth's avatar

Same! I've been “playing” all morning crafting Christmas decorations for my brother.

just mud by Ron's avatar

Now you're talking; good job Kim! 🎁