The Porch

I offered a watercolor paint party as part of the Tropical Island–themed auction. My benefactor and partner organized today’s gathering at the Annex, the event center of Grosse Pointe Unitarian. She arrived with an indoor picnic that felt like an artwork in itself — sandwiches from a little deli near the big lake in St. Clair Shores, crisp dill pickles, cider and donuts, and a bright bottle of piquant white wine. Paint-and-sip parties may be the rage, but we all chose the cider and donuts.

Now, as the afternoon fades, I find myself replaying the hours with quiet delight. About seven of us gathered in the Annex. We sat around a round table and talked — about ourselves, our creative leanings, and our shared affection for free thinking.

Without much coaxing, we moved over to the table set with watercolor paper, brushes, and trays of color. My plan was simple: invite everyone to make a small postcard-sized study, something quick and free. What happened surprised me. The participants loved the small format. A few ventured to the 9x12 sheets, but most found joy within the frame of the postcard.

Two hours passed easily. Laughter, color, and conversation filled the room. When it was time to pack up, everyone left with a little palette of paint — squeezed fresh from the tubes — and the glow of having made something of their own.

I really did very little. I set out paper and brushes, said a few words about keeping them clean, and then stepped back to let creativity take over. That’s the secret, I think — to offer a space, a few materials, and permission to begin.

My partner gave me a ride home just ahead of the rain. The storm came in with bluster and promise, and now I’m on the porch, dry under a good roof, grateful for the day.

I wish every day left me feeling this way — optimistic, connected, and quietly successful in the one thing that keeps me whole: helping others rediscover their creative light.

I texted these words of gratitude to my benefactor 

Thanks again for being my partner in the watercolor painting party. You put your heart into it. That's why I glad all who attended loved it.

Painting by my partner, Robin Ramsay

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