I'm Going to Sing

Getting better with age, cajun shrimp and whimsical sketching

ESSAY | I’m Going to Sing

Last week I went to the elementary school to watch my two boys perform in the Spring Sing. I was the proud mom in the middle of the auditorium recording snips on my phone — cherished memories of my second grader and kindergartener.

We stayed to watch each grade sing a couple songs and it’s one of those rare instances where you have to be fully present. After my boys were done, I settled in and entered my artsy observation mode. As the young girls in 5th and 6th grade took the stage, I was instantly transported back to 1998 — in seeing them, I saw myself.

Although they did a really good job, I couldn’t help but notice they were a bit distracted — looking around at their friends for assurance, giggling to ease their nerves and singing softly under their breath.

I was quickly overcome with an urge to jump to my feet and shout, “Stand tall beautiful girls! You’re amazing! You’ve got this, sing!”

Although I’m not sure some random lady hollering from the audience would do anything but garner some weird looks and maybe an escort out.

I had been there before. I remember my parents encouraging me with great enthusiasm for all they knew I was capable of. Doing what they could to build my confidence to get up there and spike the ball, take the shot, and sing.

Even with a lot of encouragement, I couldn’t help but share my ideas quietly. I too slouched my shoulders so I wasn’t towering over anyone — I just couldn’t allow myself to take up too much space.

If anything, what this reflective moment gave me that day was total and complete joy for aging. Aging isn’t always celebrated but as I sat in the auditorium, seeing myself in those young women, I knew that I had a gift that only time could give.

At 37 years old, if I’m going to spike the ball, I’m going to do it with all that I am. If I have an idea, I’m standing by it, and I’m standing tall. And lastly — dear goddess — as my silver hairs peek through and lines edge my eyes if I’m going to be up there, I’m going to SING.

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ART | Photography, Poetry, Collage, Music, Documentaries & more

I was at the library this week and as I was walking by one of the displays, a book caught my eye. Lisa Congdon (who I love) — well, what book is this? How had I never heard of this book before?

A Glorious Freedom, Older Women Leading Extraordinary Lives

I tossed it into my bag of books and didn’t think much more about it.
That night I tucked the kids in and grabbed it to browse as I sat in the hall while they fell asleep.

Before I knew it, I’m halfway through the book and I’m squinting through the darkness to read. This book is moving. I love it. The title is so true and as I finish it up it has quickly become one of my favorites. What a glorious freedom, a glorious life to be a woman making her way in this world with each year that passes.

Once in a blue moon I read a library book that I know I need for my bookshelf. I just ordered this on thrift books for $8. I know I’ll be referring back to it again and again and might even have to leave it on the table at my sister’s house, too.

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LIFESTYLE | Kitchen, Home, DIY & more

It’s that time of year where things are warming up — that means I’m back to shaving my legs routinely and doing my at home pedicure each week. I want to share my favorite summer OPI color with you because it was a little delight from my week.
When I’m not feeling moody (Lincoln Park After Dark) I’m wearing Cajun Shrimp! It’s a lovely red/orange color that looks so nice when you're kissed by the sun!

Tell me, do you have a favorite nail color for summer?

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MANA STUDIO | Updates From My Studio

I’ve showed up all week for my creative practice. Every single day I’ve sat down with my sketchbook and a fine liner to see what happens. All 60 pages are just about full, front and back — and I can’t wait to show it to you!
I feel so drawn to loose, whimsical sketching. I’m obsessed with it actually and wow do I feel like such a beginner aka I kind of suck BUT my plan this time is to not get discouraged and put the pen down. This time, I’m continuing on. I’m determined to learn.

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Thank you for reading Norden Morning. This publication is created without artificial anything - it’s me, an artist/mother in my late 30s living life and sharing about it from my favorite little corner of the couch.

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