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Little breather

Pike Place Market photo by Chandler O'Leary

The past couple of weeks have been an absolute whirlwind, and when I look in the mirror I see a walking, talking to-do list. The notes-to-self strewn all over the studio (among half-finished boxes, reference materials, pencil layouts, proof prints, watercolor pans, etc.) aren’t enough, so now I’ve taken to muttering little reminders under my breath—call this client, mail this order, drop off this pile of prints, invoice this subscriber, edit this illustration, proof these plates, cut this book cloth, list these cards, upload these photos, etc.

I needed a break. So today I bolted to Seattle to clear my head.

Pike Place Market photo by Chandler O'Leary

One of my favorite hobbies is wandering around the Market alone, especially on winter weekdays when it’s pretty much empty. Losing myself among the fruit stalls and neon is as therapeutic as meditation.

Pike Place Market sketch by Chandler O'Leary

I wasn’t in the drawing mood this time, but the Market is also on my short list of all-time favorite sketching haunts. This is one from a year ago or so, on a completely packed, sunny Saturday, when I flattened myself against poles and ducked down onto the curb to draw without being trampled by tourists.

Pike Place Market photo by Chandler O'Leary

I love it for the people-watching when it’s crowded, but there’s something special about having the place to myself. There is a downside, however (besides being heckled by bored fishmongers): it’s awfully hard not to splurge on sampling from the unbelievable smorgasbord of fresh goodies.

Pike Place Market photo by Chandler O'Leary

Now how could I say no to that?


5 thoughts on “Little breather

  1. Geek Knitter

    Nope, no way I could have walked by that either.

    When I need a day to decompress, I usually find myself at the coast, walking along my favorite path by a rocky beach. Bonus relaxation points if it’s high tide and stormy.

  2. Elizabeth M

    I love the Market, especially when it’s quiet…I even love how it smells.
    What’s not to like about ‘Big Ass Grapes’ and “Nice Bananas”?

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