Dear Life, Winter Solstice is today and with it comes the daily increasing light within winter darkness. It is a time of reflection to acknowledge the accomplishments of the past year and to release what is no longer needed for the upcoming year.
The season of winter provides 90 days of recalibration and rejuvenation. I wish everyone a loving and peaceful Solstice.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
Dear Life, It was 5 years ago during an 11-day stay in the hospital that I had a “near-death” experience. I starting writing a Love Letter to Life . Twelve biopsies and numerous tests were inconclusive but my health and life changed radically. A year later, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Large Cell and Small B Cell Lymphoma. The cancer journey began and with it a daily dose of gratitude no matter what the circumstances. The message my spirit keeps giving me is LEAN INTO LOVE. I am still here. Thank you Life Force. Thank you Spirit.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
Collage 12.18.2024
Dear Life, Anyone on the cancer journey experiences the bumpy ride, the ups and downs of the body and emotions. One expects to feel elated with a good PetScan report yet can experience exhaustion from the anxiety. Then slowly, the “good news” sinks in and there is some relief but measured. Riding out this leg of the emotional road can only be done by being in the moment with a full dose of acceptance. I am wearing my spiritual seatbelt and bumping along the road. Today woke with gratitude and ready to dive into my book project. Thank You Life!
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
Sketchbook Painting 12.06.2024
Dear Life, A good report: PetScan showed minimal growth of lymphoma. One “lit-up” lesion and minuscule activity. I will continue non-evasive treatment for three months; no chemo or infusions. With the uptick of Covid and flus/colds, I need to protect my immune system by masking and avoiding large gatherings. It will be a quiet holiday season. I am grateful my body is rejuvenating and strengthening. Thank you friends for the support.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
Dear Life, Today my Major Projects class will have a final critique with Shane Tolbert, teacher, and Jordan Eddy, writer and curator. I look forward to seeing my classmates artwork and hearing everyone’s comments. I have received many gifts being at Santa Fe Community College: uninterrupted studio time to explore new work, feedback from a variety of guests, students, and teachers, a wonderful community of people engaged in creative pursuits. I look forward to working in my campus studio and taking classes through May 2025.
yOUrs Truly, Pamela Rose
Acrylic and Collage on Paper 30″ x 22″ 11.14.2024
Dear Life, Sustenance: a. means of support, maintenance, subsistence; b. food, provisions, nourishment; c. something that gives support, endurance, strength. I love the dictionary. Sustaining my body, mind, and spirit is built on healthy thoughts, words, and actions. It includes all that feeds me. Today, the fridge gets cleaned out of “holiday” leftovers and will be filled with easy to fix nutritious food. The campus studio will be prepared for a mid-week critique as I finish up work then prepare art to be moved home. This is all sustained by an incredible Life Force, a gift from my Higher Power, living in and through me, and connecting to community. Thank You.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
SFCC Campus Studio 11.25.2024
Dear Life, I love Dr Seuss books and love these ceramics. They delight me with their shapes, lines, and color. New addition to my happy home. My best art “finds” are from local artists. I am grateful to live amongst a large community of creatives who inspire me. My life is enriched by their presence. Thank you.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
Dear Life, When the paint serves up pastels, my art critic shakes her head and sneers, “Really?” Why such a reaction? I spoke back to the inner critic, “This is how my spirit moves me.” Let my joy and peace be felt amidst the grief of loss, the turmoil of world events, the upside-down political climate, the challenge of cancer. Let my heart feel my deceased mother tapping me on my shoulder and hear her whisper, “I love this painting”. I will bring this painting home, hang it, and call it, Rosie. Missing you, Mom, during this season.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
Acrylic and Collage Painting 30″x22″ 11.21.2024
Dear Life, We are entering the season of holidays. I enjoy this time of year, the gatherings, festivities, displays of lights and big bouncing Santas and decorations beginning to show up everywhere. These are outward signs of people sharing their gratitude, joy, and hope. I am conscious that we bear the challenges of living. I am grateful that when we come together in community, we lighten the weight of our individual burdens. Spirit connection leads to love and love is greater than darkness. Lean into the light of love with me today.
Yours Truly, Pamela Rose
30″x22″ Painting and Collage 11.18.2024
Pamela Rose Markoya 