Is it harder for moms than dads? If it's a family with a stay at home mom and a working dad, then my generalization mind says, it's probably emotionally harder for the mom to leave and probably physically harder for the dad to leave due to job vacation constraints. Vice versa if it's a stay at home dad, working mom situation. Ultimately, it's hard for anyone to take 2 weeks to a month off just for themselves (unless you're living in France, as the French take and receive long vacations, or should I say "holiday"). And with two working parents, it gets even harder.

Our country doesn't make it easy on its artists. We have to find our way, clear our own path every day of the week. It's not an easy task. Vacation is limited. Time is limited. Life is limited. But we need to make our way, cut down the blackberry vines that have tangled themselves in our way.

I don't believe art is a luxury and while I recently heard someone say, Art is a privilege, I'm not sure I buy that either. What do I think? Arts are a necessity. As important as food, water, shelter, love, friendship, health. It nurtures us. As does nature. Another necessity in my book. I could get rid of a lot extras in my life, but I was a sad soul with my books and my music. When I am feeling low, I go to museums. I read about others in the world who are living their art. Twyla Tharp, who said "Art is the only way to run away without leaving home."

For me, writing helps me make sense of everything. It has been the one constant in my life. I am thankful how little you need to write-- pencil, paper. And yes, a little time, but we can find it, steal it in between disasters, imagined or otherwise. The time is there for us, we decide how we're going to use it.