Cappuccino, Ink, and Me: My Hour of Creative Solitude

 

Every week, when I drop my girls off at their keyboard class, I carve out a sacred pocket of time just for myself. Armed with my favorite set of black markers and a steaming cappuccino, I settle into a cozy café corner, music flowing through my ears, drowning out the noise of the world. This hour isn’t just about coffee; it’s about reconnecting with myself, letting my mind wander freely across the pages of my sketchbook. It’s a ritual, a pause in the middle of my busy life where I let my hand dance with lines, patterns, and stories waiting to unfold.

I do this not just during their music classes, but also when they are off at birthday parties, immersed in their own little adventures. While they celebrate with friends, I celebrate solitude, giving myself the space to train my hand and mind to create. Sometimes, I try to capture some fleeting thoughts, and other times, I study the strokes of artists I admire, learning and evolving. It’s an uninterrupted hour where my creativity takes the front seat, uninterrupted by chores, responsibilities, or daily chaos.

This small ritual is my way of keeping my artistic soul alive while balancing motherhood and work. It’s a reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant—it can be as simple as a cup of coffee and a sketchbook. These moments fuel me, inspire me, and help me return to my family with a heart that’s fuller and a mind that’s lighter. After all, what’s better than a little caffeine and creativity to keep life beautifully balanced?