Someone asked me this evening what self care looks like to me.  I said it was taking time to do my art.  This is a strange season.  I have lots of time, and it’s really too cold to enjoy the outdoors much, so I make pottery, and paint.  This winter, my art process is even more insulated than usual.  New strains of COVID-19 are out there.  I’m more self contained than I was last year, because I have my own kiln.  It’s the perfect time to practice throwing pots, and try new glaze techniques.  Still, I feel isolated, and I crave conversations about art.  I became a full member of the local artists league, hoping it would give me the chance to connect with other artists, over video chats.  That hasn’t quite happened yet.  So I watch videos of painters and potters, and try to learn as much as I can.  People seem nervous about 2022.  I see it as an opportunity to develop new skills and find new ways to present my artistic voice.