random thoughts – Day 2,263 (Thursday) – stress relief

With three dance performances on the calendar (May 31, June 13, June 16) and all the preparation work involved with practice, gathering costumes, planning hair and makeup, etc., I really had to question my sanity after accepting an invitation to be part of a photography exhibit with work due June 1. It added an extra level of planning and activity to what felt like an already full schedule, but the busier I am, the more I get done. Generally, anyway.

There was the review of photos, which began with 100 images on the theme of the show. These were reduced to 25 and test prints were done and used to reduce the count to six.  Full-size prints were made of these.

In the frame shop.

Back in the days when I exhibited frequently (a lifetime ago), I had a reserve of pre-cut window mats, backboards, and frames always at the ready. It turns out that inventory of window mats either no longer exists or is tucked away in some unexplored corner since moving. This was confirmed on Monday, after going through boxes and shelves of photos and already having been to the framing shop the previous Friday for mats for one odd sized photo. A message was sent to the frame shop on Tuesday to see if they could help with the additional need.

Today, my new friends at the frame shop hooked me up with five crisp white window mats and back boards. The relief I felt walking out of the shop this afternoon was immediate and it was a surprise to realize just how wound up I had been about it. Most people find relief at massage therapy or in a hot tub. For me, today anyway, relief happened in the frame shop.

I will get everything into the frames Friday and packed and ready to deliver on Monday as planned. It feels good.