This is week three and the final week of my #21EmBody paint along. Who knew that a seemingly small commitment could have such a profound impact. But again, isn’t that how life is when you’re open to the unexpected and unplanned?

BREASTS
It all started when a friend posted to Facebook an invitation to paint, heal and show respect for our various body parts. Mmmm what an interesting idea! The event was orchestrated by Connie Solera a well known artist’s guru. I was intrigued.

BELLY

NAVEL

SPINE
And as I am prone to do, being the Torta that I am, I jumped in with both feet. Paintings are posted to Instagram and Facebook for the world to see. Not only did I get to follow the amazing work of artists from around the world painting the same subject, but I got to see my own work evolve. I have never produced an art journal before, and my 5×7 sketch pad is now a treasure.

HAIR
I appreciate the many comments from other artists and friends alike. Even last night I ran into a friend out and about in Bacalar who had seen and appreciated my work on Facebook and is talking about picking up a brush.

EARS
I couldn’t complete this story without a shout out to George W. Bush. Our forty-third has become an amazing artist with no background but a lot of heart. He was making the rounds of late-night talk shows and I caught him on Jimmy Kimmel. He was friggin inspirational. The man is amazing AND funny. I know, who knew?

LEGS
What did I learn? The creative process cannot be rushed. It forces me to slow my mind and listen to my inner voice. At the same time, I need to NOT listen to the inner critical voice. It showed up loudly when painting my breasts and belly. Especially my belly. That was the hardest. I learned that my work is mine and doesn’t compare at all to anyone else’s. I love looking at others’ paintings of the same subject. Their amazing work does not diminish mine in the slightest. I had so much fun.
DOS TORTAS
Congratulations on your art work! I’ve enjoyed warching your transformation 😊
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THanks Laird. Looking forward to seeing you and planning another trip to Bacalar perhaps?
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Alex: It was so much fun to watch your progress with this project. So very very glad you are a part of our painting group. So very very glad you took on this particular challenge and shared it all with us. You are an inspiration. Cool, eh?
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Thanks Caroline. I wouldn’t have guessed it, not in a million years. I’m making up for lost time in my quest to be an artist.
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I have enjoyed your #21EmBody series so much! Thank you for sharing your paintings with us. Your fearlessness and openness to new challenges are inspiring.
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Honey, fear keeps us stuck. I’m all about being happy and fearless is the only way to go.
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So proud of you and your work! It’s amazing…as are you. Wow. I love it!
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Glad you like it Nancy. I do feel accomplished.
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Looking good. I particularly like the self-portrait – assuming it is a self-portrait 😀
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Actually they’re all self portraits.
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