Welcome! This world needs more Artisan Grand – Elders like you, especially now.
You know how the world feels upside down and the littles you love like crazy are struggling and you’re not sure how to help in ways that are real for you?
Wow, do I hear that!
It’s entirely possible that you have two categories of clothing. Things that are splattered with paint or clay or glitter, and things that aren’t splattered, yet!
Or, your absolutely most essential possession is your stock pot. Magical, sensual cauldron of connection and flavor and health.
Once upon a time, if you claimed your Artisan-self early, you probably owned a be-dazzler. (I won’t tell!)
Or your copy of The Artist’s Way is snuggled into the bookshelf that shelters journals filled with what grew out of the miracle of meeting Sally Dick and Jane.
You create. It may be a spiritual thing, as it is for many of us. It’s probably a sanity thing – especially now. And, it’s always a fantastically hopeful thing!
It can be messy and scary to do what we do but, because creating has changed your life, you share it – every chance you get – with your littles.
I started by making things for my girls… Baby quilts. Knitted hats and sweaters. Even booties!
The light really came on for me when I made my first book. You see, we had two Newfoundland rescue dogs and a tiny granddaughter who was way more comfortable with cats.
A small sketch book, a bunch of glue, some markers, and photos were a great beginning. I used them to “tell” the story of Martha and Zeke, especially their lives before they came to us and why they needed our love.
My heart nearly burst with the sight of Kenz toddling around, clutching her book, and proclaiming, Gammy made! Gammy made!
Then, of course, there’s making with them.
You already know that child-safe materials are a must for littles. And you invite them to tell you about what they’ve made..
When they’re ready to mimic what you do, try a simple human face. There’s a whole lot of developmental neurology behind this suggestion. The one-time nurse who lives inside me believes!
After that, keep going!
If they’re a bit older, ask them for help with your work.
There’s nothing like co-creating a kinder, gentler world together to build strong, confident young people!
You are an Artisan Grandmother. Thank goodness!
Recently, I wrote a Grandmothers’ Manifesta. A friend asked me how long it took.
My answer was simple. Thirty-five years and 10 minutes! Which is to say, it’s a path. A path of passionate hope, even on the hard days. A path to empowering our families and our world. I’m so glad you’re on the road, too.
For much of those 35 years, I was making my way from life as a poor, scared single mom, turned professional student, all the way to a whole lot of diplomas in the basement and some really helpful learning. Among the useful things… years and years as a pastoral counselor putting that learning to use. I’m a certified leader of Developing Capable People, a certified Intentional Creativity® Teacher & Coach, and the author of three Grammy friendly Amazon bestselling books.
My life was transformed when I became a Grammy! So much so that, these days, I help wise Grand-Elders like you discover and claim your special archetypal gifts for empowering yourself and the ones you love the most to survive and thrive. Art and creativity are often involved!
You can get started now, with this link to download a copy of the Grandmothers’ Manifesta, just for you!
