I haven't really "done art" since my senior year in high school 30+ years ago (Art 1 with Coach Welch, God rest his soul.) And I haven't done much gardening, either. I used to make rosaries before I became busy with midwifery work, but my beads sat untouched for years. Until recently. Since having retire early due to a medical condition, I've spent more time in prayer and more time outdoors. It would be easy to become depressed when I don't feel as well and I'm not able to do as much as I use to do.  But I intentionally choose joy.  I turned my back patio area into a colorful, joyful prayer garden, and this is where I create a lot of my rosaries and art. I'm happy out here, surrounded by reminders of my faith, listening to the sound of the fountain and my favorite music, interacting with the cats and cardinals and hummingbirds. Art, making rosaries, music, and gardening have been healing therapy for me. I hope my creations can also bring joy and comfor...