Category: PERSONAL UPDATES From Rafi And Klee

Personal Life Updates with Rafi and Klee takes you behind the scenes of their creative journey, offering a heartfelt and humorous glimpse into their everyday lives. From navigating challenges, celebrating wins, and sharing personal growth moments to discussing the unexpected twists and turns of life as artists, musicians, and partners, Rafi and Klee keep it real, relatable, and inspiring. Join them for candid conversations that highlight the beauty and chaos of balancing art, love, and everything in between.

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An Update on Klee, Day 6, Progress and Gratitude

Hi, awesome humans.

I wanted to share some updates on Klee’s health, her progress, and our plans moving forward. The last couple of days have been a whirlwind, but we’re finally starting to see some light at the end of this tunnel.

Last night, Klee had her first full night of uninterrupted sleep since this all began. That, in itself, was a huge relief. Yesterday, we received the rest of the test results back. Thankfully, nothing serious has shown up, which is an enormous weight off our shoulders. They started her on a new medication yesterday, and it seems to be working. She’s been doing well enough that, if things continue to improve, she’ll be coming home tomorrow night!

That Little Ball Of Hair In The Bed Is Klee Sleeping Soundly. That Ball Of Mess In Front Is Me Battling The Chair I Sleep In.
Klee Resting After The Medication
A Beautiful View From The Window
A Small Thank You To The Doctors And Nurses Who Have Been Awesome To Us.

We’re both excited about the idea of having her back home, though we know the road to recovery isn’t over yet. Klee still has some pain flare-ups and isn’t fully out of the woods. We have appointments scheduled with specialists to get to the bottom of it, but for now, her appetite is back, her spirits are lifted, and she’s looking much healthier than she has in the past week.

Preparing for Klee’s Homecoming

After spending the last few days at the hospital, I decided to head home this afternoon. Today, I’ve been busy getting everything ready for her return. I picked up her medications, stocked the fridge with the appropriate foods, and prepped the house to make sure it’s a cozy, healing space for her. Knowing she’ll be coming home soon has given me a renewed sense of hope and excitement.

Of course, life threw a little curveball my way during all this. On my way home, a deer jumped out in front of the car. I couldn’t completely avoid it, so the car has some damage, and unfortunately, I’m not sure what happened to the deer. It wasn’t the most pleasant moment, but right now, my focus is on Klee and her recovery. Everything else can wait.

This is one of those WTF moments, but It Could Have Been Worse And For That I Am Grateful.

A Little Bit of Bright News

On a positive note, the Me and It Creatures calendars arrived today as I was getting things ready, and they look amazing! For those of you who pre-ordered, I’ll start shipping them out next week once Klee is settled in at home. There are still some available and I am trash at promoting anything right now, so if you want a happy “Me and It” calendar, I have some I’ll be shipping out next week.

Some of you showed your support by ordering something from us and kindly will wait until next year for us to mail it out. Thank you for that. If you purchased something from us, I’ll be reaching out soon (within the next couple weeks) with a plan for when those will be created and sent out. Your patience and understanding mean so much to us and we appreciate you so much.

Once again, I want to thank everyone who has supported us—whether through donations, ordering something, love, or kind messages. You’ve helped us navigate an incredibly challenging time, and your kindness will never be forgotten.

Endless Gratitude

You have been following our updates and sending love, I can’t thank you enough. Your support has been our anchor during this difficult time. To those of you who sent financial help, words cannot express how deeply grateful we are. Truly, I don’t know how we would have made it through this past week—and the months ahead (which are looking more doable)—without your generosity.

She Looks So Much Better, My Heart Feels Alive When I Experience That Amazing Smile.

Because of you, we’re close enough to our financial goal to focus fully on Klee’s healing and health without the added stress of financial disaster looming. Stress is the last thing I want for her right now, so thank you for giving us this incredible gift of peace. You have no idea how much this means to me. To everyone who donated, I’ll be reaching out over the next couple of months with a special gift to express my gratitude (I know you will say I don’t need to, but I want to).

Here’s to Klee’s continued healing, a brighter day tomorrow, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this amazing community.

With love,
Rafi

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS TO US!

Due to Klee’s hospitalization and illness, we have had to cancel several shows and events for the holidays. This put us in a financial bind. Some of you asked how you can support us financially. I added this section. Thank you.

DONATE TO RAFI AND KLEE

Or Go To Paypal By Clicking The Link Below: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2GTZMGBCX3UBA

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Update on Klee, Day 5, Ups and Downs

As I sit here in the hospital typing this, I think, I would rather be updating you on anything else right now. But this is where life has us, and I want to keep you all in the loop because so many of you have been sending us support and love… and, I am spending a lot of time sitting here “thinking” while she rests. Writing this blog is a welcome distraction.

Many of you have been following our journey this week, and I wanted to share an update on Klee. Since Monday, we’ve been in the hospital, and it’s been a tough few days for her starting sometime before her hospitalization. Yesterday brought a glimmer of hope when she was taken off antibiotics and started showing some improvement. She even managed to do a few laps around the hospital, which gave her a boost of energy and lifted our spirits.

As the evening came, we were optimistic about the possibility of heading home soon—something my back, currently at odds with this hospital chair, eagerly anticipates. Unfortunately, the night didn’t go as smoothly. Things flared up again, and Klee endured another rough stretch.

This morning, she’s feeling a bit better, and the doctors are running more tests to get to the bottom of things. The silver lining in all this is that we’ve ruled out many of the scarier possibilities, which is a huge relief. Klee, as always, continues to smile through it all and find moments of joy despite the challenges.

We’re still in waiting mode, hoping for more answers and, fingers crossed, a path that leads us back home soon.

I also want to take a moment to thank each of you who has reached out with emails, messages, and financial support. Typically, our holiday season provides enough income to cover the slow period from mid-December to March. This year has been different. With Klee’s health taking precedence, we had to cancel events and plans, and your support has been a lifeline.

Words can’t fully capture how much we appreciate the kindness and generosity you’ve shown us. You’ve allowed us to focus on Klee’s health without the added stress of looming financial worries. You really have no idea how much it means to us.

Klee and I met and got together in 2009, and honestly, we’ve spent every single day together since. Rarely have we spent a day apart—in fact, I’m pretty sure I can count on one hand the days we’ve been apart. She is my best friend, my biggest supporter, and the most beautiful human I have ever had the pleasure of spending time with. She is magic.

Our life together has been a magical adventure of living on the road, starting a creative career side by side, and eventually buying our dream home together. Over the years, we’ve faced plenty of challenges, but we’ve always had each other’s backs.

2024 has been a particularly challenging year for us both financially and emotionally, for many reasons, including but not limited to—let’s just call it family drama invading our creative space. I saw the stress hit her hard this year and start to present itself in physical ways. Mine did too, but it mostly showed up in the form of more white hairs in my beard.

As much as I hate seeing her in the hospital, I’m grateful that she’s being checked for anything and everything it could possibly be. It’s a step toward answers, and that brings a small measure of peace amidst the worry.

I also want to give a big shoutout to the doctors and nurses here. They have been absolutely amazing and have really taken care of Klee. Their dedication, expertise, and kindness have made a difficult situation so much more manageable, and we’re deeply grateful for everything they’re doing to help her heal.

That chair next to Klee’s bed is an absolute nightmare.

For now, it’s a waiting game. I’ve been perfecting the art of sleeping (or trying to) in a chair that seems engineered to keep you awake. Don’t worry, though—I’ve graduated from vending machine snacks to actual food.

We’ll keep you updated when we can. Thank you for being there for us, for Klee, I am so grateful. Your messages of love and support are a reminder that we’re not navigating this alone.

Here’s hoping that the next update will come from the comfort of home.

With gratitude and love,
Rafi

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS TO US!

Due to Klee’s hospitalization and illness, we have had to cancel several shows and events for the holidays. This put us in a financial bind. Some of you asked how you can support us financially. I added this section. Thank you.

DONATE TO RAFI AND KLEE

Or Go To Paypal By Clicking The Link Below: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2GTZMGBCX3UBA

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STUDIO IS SHUT DOWN – Update on Klee’s Condition and Holiday Operations

This isn’t the usual fun and uplifting message I love to share, but I wanted to take a moment to update you on what’s been happening here at Rafi and Klee Studios and our recent health concerns.

As many of you know, we had to cancel our annual virtual holiday sale due to illness. Unfortunately, shortly after, Klee experienced a significant downturn and we went to the ER. She was admitted to the hospital, where she’s been staying as we work with her doctors to uncover what’s going on. Despite the circumstances, Klee is staying optimistic, and we’re holding onto hope that we’ll have more clarity—and good news—soon.

These days, my time is split between being at the hospital with Klee and trying to stay on top of things at home during the evenings. To be completely honest, I’m not functioning very well at running a business while this is happening. Once I contact everyone today and get the books shipped out, and get snow tires put on our car, I’ll be heading back to the hospital and staying by Klee’s side until we know more.

Orders and Shipping Updates

  • Books: All pre-ordered copies of Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up are making their way to the post office. Unfortunately, any books shipping to Canada will be delayed due to the strike. I’ll keep an eye on the situation, but until it is resolved, I’ll need to hold off on shipping those books. If you’re in Canada, I’ve sent you an email with further details.
  • Calendars: If you ordered a Me and It Creatures calendar, they’re expected to arrive here on the 16th. My hope is that Klee will be home by then, resting comfortably, and I’ll be able to package and ship those out soon after.
  • Jewelry and Other Orders: I’m going to do my best to complete and ship all pending orders, but I ask for your patience. If there are delays, especially with jewelry, I’ll reach out to you directly to keep you updated. If it is ok to ship your order next year, that would be helpful.
  • Local Pick-Up: Some of you ordered books, items, and calendars for local pick-up. I sent out some emails today, but I may have missed a few of you. We will reach out soon (hopefully next week) to schedule a meet-up to pick up your items.

If you have any questions about your order, please don’t hesitate to email me. It may take me a bit longer to respond, but I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Shut Down for the Holidays

Although we are doing what we can, with everything going on, we’ve decided to shut down studio operations for the holidays. This wasn’t an easy decision, but it’s necessary to focus on Klee’s recovery and to navigate this challenging time.

I’ll be honest—it’s incredibly hard to see the love of my life going through this. There are health factors, financial challenges, and the emotional toll of uncertainty. But we are holding onto hope, and we know that brighter days are ahead.

In the meantime, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers and send us all the healing vibes you can muster. Hopefully, by next week, we’ll have more answers, and Klee will be on the mend.

I know that some of you have asked about supporting us financially during this time, and although I have a hard time asking for help, I appreciate it immensely. I’ve added a link for donations here.

If you want to support us by ordering something, please do. We are hoping to be back up and running by the end of January (we are optimistic), but orders will not ship out until then, especially jewelry orders.

Thank you so much for your understanding, patience, and support. Your kindness means the world to us during times like these.

With love and gratitude,
Rafi

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS TO US!

Due to Klee’s hospitalization and illness, we have had to cancel several shows and events for the holidays. This put us in a financial bind. Some of you asked how you can support us financially. I added this section. Thank you.

DONATE TO RAFI AND KLEE

Or Go To Paypal By Clicking The Link Below: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2GTZMGBCX3UBA

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VIRTUAL SHOW CANCELLED – Laying Low, But Still Sending Love: A Holiday Update from Rafi and Klee

We have some unfortunate news. We’re writing this with heavy hearts as we announce the cancellation of our annual virtual holiday sale, originally scheduled for December 8th. Klee’s health has been our top priority, and after months of not feeling well, it’s clear that she needs time to rest and recover. While we absolutely love spending this festive time with you—celebrating, sharing laughs, music, and offering discounts as our thank-you for your incredible support—it’s important for us to honor what’s most important right now: health and healing.

Over the last few months, Klee has been dealing with some issues, likely tied to the stress we experienced earlier this year. For a time, it seemed like things were improving, and she was on the mend. Unfortunately, the issues have recently flared up again, and we are putting a pause on everything. We are doing what we can, but at a MUCH slower pace.

Your thoughts, prayers, and love mean so much to us during this time. Thank you for being such a supportive and awesome bunch of humans. Your kind words mean the world to us.

In the meantime, we’re still determined to bring a little cheer to your holidays! To that end, we’re offering a 30% discount code: 29NSRGF9 for all the Rafi art you may have been eyeing. While jewelry orders are welcome, please keep in mind that made-to-order pieces may not ship in time for Christmas and will have to wait until Klee is feeling well enough to sit at her bench.

USE THE COUPON CODE AT OUR ONLINE STORE CLICK HERE

This sale will run until Sunday night (December 8th), so it’s a great opportunity to snag something special and help support us during a time when we would normally be counting on this event for much-needed income.

Additionally, for those who love a little inspiration throughout the year, we have 74 calendars left from our Me and It Creatures collection. These calendars are packed with uplifting messages and fun holidays, designed to brighten your days. They’re available for $25, and we’d love for you to order one to bring some joy into your 2025.

We will still announce the winners of the raffle via social media and contact them directly via email, so keep an eye out!

Please send your love, good vibes, and prayers for Klee as she continues to rest and recover. She’s in good spirits, and we are navigating this challenging time with as much grace and resilience as we can muster.

Thank you for your understanding and support. We’re so grateful for this community, and even though we won’t be hanging out live this time, know that your presence in our lives means the world to us.

With love and gratitude,
Rafi and Klee

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS TO US!

Due to Klee’s hospitalization and illness, we have had to cancel several shows and events for the holidays. This put us in a financial bind. Some of you asked how you can support us financially. I added this section. Thank you.

DONATE TO RAFI AND KLEE

Or Go To Paypal By Clicking The Link Below: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2GTZMGBCX3UBA

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A Special Thank You From Rafi And Klee

Ah, Thanksgiving. The day of turkey, stretchy pants, and giving thanks—or at least, that’s the idea. For us here at Rafi and Klee Studios, it’s a day like any other, which means we’ll be knee-deep in projects, books, murals, and jewelry. We’re also in full prep mode for our Virtual Holiday Sale on December 8th, so if you thought today was all about pie and parades for us, think again. We might cook up something special later (because why not?), but for the most part, we’re staying right here, at home, doing our thing.

Thanksgiving, for us, isn’t about big gatherings or fields of cornucopia. Our tradition? We sit down with a cup of something warm, and we make a big ol’ list of everything we appreciate. It’s a grounding ritual—an anchor amidst the whirlwind of life. One of the top things on that list is the fact that we’re breathing. Seriously. If you’re reading this, congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of respiration. Cheers to that, my friends.

It’s funny how easy it is to forget what we’ve accomplished, to get wrapped up in the what-ifs and not-yets. But today reminds us to stop and look around, to recognize what’s working, what’s growing, and what brings us joy. Gratitude is powerful. It’s like a warm hug for your soul (and way less awkward than an actual hug, especially if you’re an introvert like us).

Now, let’s talk about the holiday itself. Thanksgiving, as the story goes, began as a harvest feast in 1621 between the Wampanoag people and the English colonists. These days, most of us aren’t toiling away in fields, giving thanks for a good harvest. So what do we celebrate? The answer is simple: everything we appreciate. Whether it’s the small victories, the people in our lives, or the fact that we didn’t burn our toast this morning, there’s always something worth raising a glass—or a coffee mug—to.

Speaking of appreciation, here’s a big one: you. You, who support us, cheer us on, and share in our weird, wonderful journey. You inspire us, encourage us, and remind us why we do what we do. You’re like a breath of fresh air, a ray of sunlight in the crazy, unpredictable world of two artists chasing their dreams.

So, from the bottom of our quirky hearts, thank you. You mean the world to us, and we adore you more than words can express.

Happy Thanksgiving, creative humans. May your day be filled with love, laughter, and gratitude—and maybe a little bit of pie.

With love and appreciation,
Rafi & Klee

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Embracing the Celestial Dance: 2024 Solar Eclipse

In 2017, we embarked on a journey across the US to witness the extraordinary spectacle of the solar eclipse. Standing beneath the celestial ballet, as the moon gracefully obscured the sun, was a moment of pure magic. It was a reminder of our place in the vast cosmos, simultaneously feeling small yet infinitely connected to the universe.

Now, in 2024, (April 8th) the anticipation surges once more as the trajectory of the solar eclipse brings it closer to home. Living less than an hour away from the path of totality feels like destiny unfolding. It’s as if the universe has conspired to grant us another opportunity to bask in its celestial glory.

For those who have never experienced the solar totality, it’s difficult to put into words the profound impact it can have. As the sky darkens and the world falls into a hushed reverence, there’s a palpable sense of awe that permeates the air. It’s a reminder of the wonders that exist beyond our daily routines and concerns, inviting us to pause and marvel at the beauty of existence.

The upcoming solar eclipse is not just a celestial event; it’s a rare opportunity to witness nature’s grandeur firsthand. With the next eclipse in our area not expected until 2099, the importance of seizing the moment becomes even more poignant. It’s a chance to create lasting memories and forge a deeper connection with the universe that surrounds us.

So, whether you’re a seasoned eclipse chaser or someone curious to witness this phenomenon for the first time, I urge you to step outside and join in the spectacle. Allow yourself to be swept away by the cosmic dance unfolding overhead. Let the experience remind you of the boundless wonders that await when we simply look up and embrace the magic of the universe.

This experience will leave you inspired. In the aftermath of the 2017 solar eclipse, its impact lingered in our minds long after the sun had reemerged from behind the moon. The experience had left an indelible mark on us, igniting our creativity and inspiring us in unexpected ways.

The result was a stunning work of art by Klee—a delicate pendant that shimmered with iridescence, reminiscent of the sun’s corona radiating outwards during totality. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, each facet of the jewelry reflected the mesmerizing beauty of the celestial event that had inspired it.

As the 2024 solar eclipse approaches, let’s come together to celebrate our place in the cosmos and revel in the beauty of the celestial ballet. It’s a reminder that, despite the chaos of our daily lives, there is always something extraordinary waiting to be discovered if we only take the time to look.

So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and prepare to witness a moment of pure magic. The 2024 solar eclipse is upon us, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

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Letting Go of the Glitches: A Rogue’s Reflection on Simplifying Life

Today, we embark on a journey through the intricacies of managing a self-run membership site versus the streamlined simplicity of Patreon.

A year ago, we bid farewell to Patreon in pursuit of greater control and customization for our members on our dedicated website, theroguecommunity.com. The decision seemed like the right move, given our desire to offer a plethora of exclusive content and interactions. Little did we anticipate the challenges that lay ahead.

Our artistic haven, the Rogue community, thrives on live podcasts, private streams, workshops, art challenges, exclusive videos, and more. We’ve created a vibrant space for artists to connect and grow. However, as we delved into the intricacies of managing our own site, we discovered a hidden labyrinth of technical glitches, especially with the WordPress framework and various plugins required to deliver the best membership options.

The past year became a testament to the delicate balance between managing a thriving online community and nurturing one’s artistic soul. The website, while a hub of creativity, also became a source of unexpected challenges. Every week, a new glitch emerged, demanding my attention and diverting my focus from the art studio.

As an artist, my yearly goal is to create at least 150 new works of art, a lofty ambition that drives my passion for creation. However, the demands of troubleshooting website issues left little room for artistic endeavors. Despite the behind-the-scenes chaos, the members remained blissfully unaware, shielded from the technical storms I wrestled with.

The stark realization hit me hard – in the pursuit of providing more for our community, I inadvertently sacrificed my personal artistic goals. The very essence of being an artist involves immersion in the creative process, yet I found myself entangled in the complexities of maintaining a membership website.

Last year’s goal was to simplify, a mantra that echoed through our endeavors. We streamlined processes, eliminated unnecessary complexities, and aimed for a more straightforward approach. However, the website posed a significant challenge, introducing unforeseen technical complexities that disrupted the delicate balance we sought.

The toll on my artistic output was profound. The studio, my sanctuary, became a neglected haven, visited sporadically amid the chaos of fixing glitches and ensuring the website’s seamless operation. Art, the lifeblood of my existence, took a backseat to the demands of managing a self-run platform.

The financial repercussions were undeniable. While the membership site contributed to our income, the artistic side, our primary source of revenue, suffered a decline. It became apparent that the pursuit of a self-run membership site had unintended consequences on both my artistic fulfillment and our financial stability.

As the year drew to a close, a profound reevaluation became imperative. Simplify had been our guiding principle, yet the reality begged for a more drastic shift. The decision to let go of the self-run membership site, despite the fears and uncertainties it brought, became a pivotal moment in reclaiming artistic autonomy.

The fear of returning to Patreon with a metaphorical “tail between our legs” clashed with the realization that holding onto a project that no longer served its purpose was detrimental. The members, our cherished rogues, remained at the forefront of our considerations. However, it was evident that a significant change was needed to restore the delicate balance between community management and artistic creation.

The decision to let go was not merely a surrender; it was a reclaiming of artistic agency. The emotional turmoil – fear, financial concerns, and a tinge of regret – were overshadowed by the need for a renewed focus on art.

This podcast episode serves as an open narrative, offering a glimpse into the struggles and realizations of the past year. It’s a testament to the artist’s journey, the constant negotiation between creative passion and external demands.

As we step into 2024, the mantra shifts to “simplify.” Yet, this year’s simplicity transcends the mere elimination of unnecessary complexities. It delves deeper into the notion of shedding projects that no longer serve our artistic essence.

The lesson is clear – life is short, and time is a precious currency. Focus on the things you love, and let go of the burdens that hinder your creative journey. In sharing this personal odyssey, I hope it resonates with fellow artists facing similar struggles.

Adios, wonderful rogues! May your 2024 be a year of simplicity, focus on magic, love, and everything that brings you joy. Life’s canvas awaits, and it’s time to paint with unabated passion.

Have an amazing, art-filled week, and I look forward to our next rendezvous. Until then, stay inspired!

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When Things Go Wrong

As I type out this blog post, I find myself in a different state of mind than usual. Normally, I’m all about positivity, and I tend to share the bright side of life. But today, I want to talk about those times when things don’t go as planned. You start thinking about your own life in the grand scheme of things and can easily find yourself focused on everything that is going wrong. Recently, we took a big financial hit, and the thoughts of our current financial situation have been dominating my brain jar.

Klee and I are what you would call, workaholics. Although our work is fun and creative, we have also put other aspects on our plate that can spiral out of control. This year, we set out to make our lives a little easier, so we could focus on what really matters to us. That has been challenging.

We started the year out by creating our own membership site. The initial idea was to make life simpler, to step away from Patreon, and to streamline our creative community endeavors. However, what actually happened was quite the opposite. The site brought a barrage of glitches and challenges, which only added to my workload. The plan was to simplify, but it seemed we inadvertently complicated things. That being said, it was my fault. As a self-proclaimed workaholic, instead of going the simple route with our membership community, I went crazy and added way too much.

This situation has led me to ponder the financial aspect of our journey. You might think that someone as dedicated as Klee and I, who work tirelessly on our creative pursuits, would be swimming in money. But, the reality is, that our jam-packed schedule doesn’t always leave us with the time to sort out our finances. It’s more like we’re constantly putting out fires, and this chaotic existence doesn’t exactly align with our desire for a simpler, more balanced life.

As October comes to an end and November approaches, I reflect on the whirlwind of activities that transpired. In just one month, we conducted our first artist masterclass workshop, we are about to release a song and a music video, and I introduced my limited edition artist’s calendars. On top of that, our daughter is moving in this week, which has brought its own set of preparations, emotions, and challenges.

We want to be as supportive as possible. It’s easy to do that when you are not focused on the financial dip your bank account has taken for the month. Life is undoubtedly smoother when you’re not just scraping by, but right now, we can only provide emotional support for our daughter as she transitions out of college and decides her path in life. We want to be a positive influence in her life, but the struggles we are focused on can be overwhelming and less than motivational.

Here’s the thing, despite these challenges, I know that I’m standing in my own way when it comes to feeling better about this stuff. This isn’t the first time we’ve faced such a situation; it’s a familiar place for us all at some point. The key, I’ve come to realize, is to keep your head up and your heart open to possibilities.

Amid the chaos and financial worries, we must remind ourselves that opportunities and possibilities are always nearby, if not right in front of us. Our power lies in focusing on what is working, on the things we can do, and on cherishing the moments we have.

When I take a step back and assess this year, I see so many things going right. We’ve built a fantastic online community, our daughter’s exciting new chapter is about to begin, we had a successful artist’s workshop, we’re releasing a stunning music video, and we’ve created a life that we both love. I’ve created beautiful art, we’ve made new friends in our new town, and we’ve found a home that we adore. Life could be worse, a lot worse. It’s really just a matter of perspective.

Yes, life doesn’t always go according to plan, but that’s just the nature of life itself. Instead of worrying too much, let’s savor the moments, enjoy life, and focus on what’s going well as much as you can. In the grand scheme of things, resilience and gratitude can pave the way for a brighter future. Trust me, I’m not just quoting some shit I’ve read, I’ve lived it, time and time again.

So, as I wrap up this outpouring of random thoughts, I leave you with this: Consider where your focus lies. Challenges will always arise, but life, at its core, is a series of moments to be cherished. If you are reading this, then you are here right now, living it. Embrace your life, enjoy it as much as you can, things will go wrong, but things will also go right. Make the most of it all.

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Resilience: Weathering the Storms of Life

It’s been a whirlwind since we moved to our new town. Between running our art business, volunteering, and making repairs, Klee and I haven’t had a chance to catch our breath. We were in desperate need of a reset. Luckily, with winter, we have had some much-needed downtime. We needed to get organized.

Despite feeling a bit out of place since our move, we’ve tried to stay involved in art-centric events and help out wherever we can. But there is only so far one can push themselves. Recently, we’ve faced a new challenge, which caused me to reflect a little. In facing challenges, we have been called resilient over the last couple of years, and I wanted to dig a little deeper.

Klee At Black And White Ball -Posing With Wings I Built.

Resilience is the ability to recover from difficult situations, adapt, and bounce back when life throws curveballs our way. It is a critical trait to possess when unexpected events happen at any time. Resilience can mean the difference between giving up or pushing through the suck.

So, the question is, have Klee and I always been resilient? The answer is no. We may have survived many situations in the past, but we were not always resilient. To be honest, I think we can thank “being artists” for our resilience. So how did we develop resilience? Why is it that we persist instead of giving up?

One way to develop resilience is by being organized. Having a flexible system and being proactive about managing our lives has helped us handle difficult situations better.

When we are organized, we can more easily identify what is essential and what is not. By putting our priorities in order, we can ensure that we spend our time and energy on the things that matter most. Being organized can also help us to be more efficient, allowing us to accomplish more with less stress.

Most Recent Challenge

That was a big problem for us before, during, and after the move. Changing our lives so drastically threw a wrench into the systems we had in place. With every new obstacle, things seemed to become more and more overwhelming. That is why it is important to take as much time as you need to put things where they belong. Being out of whack is no fun, trust me.

Another way to develop resilience is by working smarter. This comes with getting organized. We can all benefit from taking a step back and reassessing our actions. Sometimes, we get caught up in the routine and don’t realize that we are making things more complicated than they need to be. By examining our processes and identifying areas where we can improve, we can streamline things and make them more manageable. This can reduce stress and make it easier to bounce back from setbacks. Cutting the fluff makes a difference in how you approach your days.

Rafi and Klee Studios

All that being said, even when we are organized and working smart, life can still throw us curveballs.

Unexpected events like storms, repairs, financial problems, or accidents can disrupt our plans and overwhelm us. In those moments, it’s important to remember that resilience is not about being invincible. It’s about being able to weather the storm and bounce back afterward. As artists, our entire career is built on resilience.

Here are some tips on how we stay resilient in the face of adversity:

Take care of yourself: When we are under stress, it’s easy to neglect our physical and emotional needs. But taking care of ourselves is crucial for building resilience. Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and make time for exercise and relaxation.

Rafi and Klee Relaxing.

Lean on your support system: Don’t try to go it alone. Reach out to family and friends for support, or seek out a support group. Talking to others who have been through similar experiences can be comforting and help us to see that we are not alone.

Focus on what you can control: In difficult situations, it’s easy to feel helpless. But focusing on what we can control can help us to feel more empowered. Identify the things that are within your control, and focus on those. This allows you not to waste time thinking about things you can’t control that make you feel overwhelmed.

Practice gratitude: It sounds cheesy, but this step is essential. Getting caught up in what’s going wrong is easy, but focusing on what’s going right can help us develop a more positive outlook. Your brain chemistry changes when you do this, allowing you to think more clearly.

Learn from setbacks: This is life. We are going to experience roadblocks and setbacks. It can be frustrating and discouraging, but it can also be an opportunity for growth. Take time to reflect on what you can learn from the experience and how you can use that knowledge to improve in the future.

What a mess …lol.

Listen, resilience is essential in a world of inevitable change and uncertainty. By being organized, working smarter, and caring for ourselves, we can develop the resilience we need to weather the storms of life. Remember to lean on your support system, focus on what you can control, practice gratitude, and learn from setbacks. With this, we can bounce back from just about anything.

It’s been a rollercoaster since we moved to this new town, but I’m excited to see where it takes us. Persistence spawns resilience, and resilience gives birth to focusing on what is going right in life. I’m excited to see what new adventures we’ll have and what new people we’ll meet. But most of all, I am excited to be alive on this adventure called life.

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Where Inspiration Comes From

People often ask me, “What inspires you and your art?” At that moment, people expect me to say something like “Picasso, Warhol, or Dali.”

Although the great masters of the past inspire me, their art doesn’t inspire me at all.

Oh, sure, I may grab some ideas from here or there because I find something fascinating in the art. However, when it comes to inspiration, the things that inspire me have more to do with life than the products of life.

Let me explain.

What we create always comes from inside of us. It comes from that place where we absorb the world around us. It’s the stuff of life. Although just about every creative endeavor you witness expresses the artist’s journey, it is their interpretation. In fact, when you resonate with a work of art, it is because you have written your own narrative for it. It’s a beautiful thing. At that moment, the art becomes a collaboration between you and the artist. Ultimately, the artist sees one thing, and you may see something totally different. You see an image that may symbolize a moment in time in your life, but you can never really put yourself in the artist’s shoes. The art then becomes something even more powerful and transcends into synergy.

Recently Klee and I took a long road trip to Illinois for my daughter’s wedding. It had been two years or even longer, since we had seen anyone in the family (due to the year that shall not be named, and pandemic).

We were excited. That being said, there was also a good amount of mental preparation. Obviously, anyone with a family knows that sometimes you will have to deal with some quirkiness that is unique to your family dynamic.

Those things, those conversations, those smiles, those interactions, those quiet conversations, those heated moments, that laughter, the sadness, and all of it, are part of the stuff of life. All of it is part of what inspires us. These are the things that can knock us down or pick us up. These are the things that show us the lessons of who we are or what we want to be. These things allow us to overcome or fall flat on our faces.

These are the things that inspire my art.

It’s not Picasso’s art. It’s Picasso’s life that I’m fascinated by. Art is simply an expression of how he looked at the world. How ANY artist sees the world. It is merely an expression of how they saw the things that we can all take for granted.

In this world of hustle and being busy, it’s easy to let life pass us by. It’s easy to forget the little moments. It’s easy to look at the destination and forget the journey altogether.

Inspiration surrounds us. It comes from those moments of overcoming. It comes from those moments of absolute joy, and it comes from those moments of heartache. This is what inspires innovation and creativity. Many of us believe that we have to think our way through things. That we have to figure this or that out. But in reality, thinking doesn’t really get us anywhere. Usually, we exhaust ourselves by overthinking and take a break from it, that’s when feelings finally get their say and the solution comes to us. This is inspiration.

Feelings are powerful. Most people try to suppress or hide their feelings, yet feelings express our ultimate truth. So, if you’ve ever been taught to hide your feelings, it means that you’ve been taught to hide who you are, your authentic self, and the way you process and see the world. We have been led to believe that our feelings make us vulnerable, yet only in that vulnerability can we find our strength. It takes vulnerability to truly fall in love with life, yourself, and other humans.

Ultimately, at the end of the day, the things that inspire me are the things that I get to experience. Only because I allowed myself to be there fully in my feelings and not question the moment with brain chatter.

Things like watching my beautiful daughter walk down the aisle. That is a lovely moment in time. That is something that will inspire my art. In fact, I’m planning on creating work specifically for them based on my interpretation of that beautiful day.

There are so many things in life that we can focus on. I feel like sometimes we’re trained to focus on the things that really, ultimately, at the end of the day, don’t matter. What really matters is the fact that right now, you are breathing.

You are experiencing life and feeling your way through it right now.

So if your focus is on something that ultimately doesn’t matter, that may mean you’re stuck in your head.

I suggest just being out of your mind. That is where I like to spend most of my time. There’s no better place to be for true inspiration.