The season is dying down. The snow has finally arrived and everything is now quiet. The animals have sought shelter and all the plants have wilted away. Autumn seemed short but it seems to get shorter every year. Perhaps it just feels that way because it’s my favorite season. Regardless, the winter weather has arrived and I’m contemplating what I will be doing for the next couple months.

I definitely will keep up with Zentangle, continuing to incorporate it with my totem animals. I would like to think that is now a “forever” series. It will never end. The collection will just continue to grow. With the amount of creatures on this planet, I do not think I could cover them in a single lifetime. Plus it’s the best way for me to learn each totem. At the same time, I am also learning the different tangles. Win, win!

In researching Zentangle, I’ve discovered mandalas. At first, I thought it was just repeating patterns within a circle. Upon reading further I learned they are a symbol in Hindu and Buddhist practices that represent the universe and the unity we share with it. It is a symbol to show the never ending cycle of the universe. It seems like it goes hand in hand with meditative art. Plus I’ve been wanting to learn more about Buddhism so this is a perfect place to start. Another Win, win!

Let’s not forget, it’s almost Christmas! I keep thinking about my “Krampus” drawing I did a couple years ago. Perhaps it is time to do another one. I have also been teaching my son about Yule. Maybe I should do some drawings inspired by the winter solstice. So many ideas, so little time. I guess I better get pen to paper and just get something done!

Are you ready for winter? What’s your favorite thing to do during this time of year? Share a comment below! Thanks for stopping by this week. I hope you’re keeping warm where you are.

Until next time,

“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.”