“Two, Four, Six, Eight. Who do we appreciate?”
In today’s world, I’m sure this qualifies as an old school cheer. I was a cheerleader in both junior and senior high school when this group shout was a standard. It was the days of sing-songy chants, split jumps in the air and semi-dance routines to live marching band music. During athletic events, our goal was to encourage the sports teams and guide the fans in supportive chants.
These garden bells are on their way to their new homes. A fellow artist and childhood friend entrusted me with the design and completion of this project. She provided some guidance with desired colors, but left the other creative choices up to me. Support like this encourages my artistic abilities.
Looking beyond sports, I’ve realized the importance of a good support team in professional and lifetime pursuits. Words of encouragement go a long way to bolster confidence and improve our attitude. I bet everyone likes to have enthusiastic and vocal supporters at work and at home.
Participating in a creative outlet is a good way to bring cheer in to your own life. There are so many ways to satisfy a creative urge you may have. Do-It-yourself Pinterest projects, studio painting parties or local 'crafternoon' gatherings are a few. Even new computer programs are a tool any of us can use to exercise our artistic muscle. Look what my husband created from a favorite photo of two of our dogs!
I’m lucky to have some great clay cheerleaders in my world. Other potters, my family and many of my customers are a vital part of this support system. Their encouragement, advice and positive feedback cheer me on and guide me toward success. In turn, I like to be a positive voice for people in my life circle. Verbalizing appreciation makes everyone feel good.
This group of bowls is accompanying a dinner set on its way to California. I experimented and accented each foot of the bowl with a pop of color. I like the results!
In addition to words, actions speak volumes. Even strangers benefit from good cheer. Eye contact and a smile might be just the uplift a fellow human needs. Purchases made at locally owned businesses are a boost to every community. Think about the people in your immediate circle and spread some encouragement there. I bet it reverberates right back to you tenfold.
If you live around the Washington, DC area -- this holiday show is worth the trip! I'll be on hand Saturday, December 10 and Friday December 16. Stop by and say hello! Click on photo for more details.