Ship names; GhostPainting, InviablePaint, HauntedPainting, SpookyPainting, ArtistSpirit

Currently, I’m slowly working through The Artist’s Way for the 3rd time in my life. As any creative person who has read and worked this magical, transpiring book will tell you, it not only inspires change - but creativity, direction and downright joy. If you find yourself stuck or at a crossroads, this is the book that can make a difference. Promise. Nope, this isn’t an ad - I just love it that much because it has changed MY life on two previous occasions, inspiring me to not only create the career I craved but also write a children’s book series. (Now, I just need to find the direction and courage to get it edited and published ) One of my favorite “exercises” of #TheArtistsWay is the artist date - where you carve out time once a week religiously just for you. No spouse. No child. No dog. No friend. Just you and your thoughts as your companion. Oftentimes, it’s doing something you would have loved doing as a child. For instance, I have gone to the Santa Monica pier and rode rides, watched kids’ movies in the theater, taken long strolls, scheduled a Friday double-matinee for myself, or - as in the case on my date this week here at Fashion Island Hotel - swam laps alone around the cross-shaped pool, soaking up the sun, closing my eyes underwater, reaching out and not knowing what’s in front of me. That’s what creativity is if you ask me. Taking a risk with your eyes closed, reaching out in front of you and just swimming, swimming, swimming, hoping you won’t bump into a wall. Try it sometime. Both the swimming and that approach with your talents and creativity. I love staying at pools with hotels but I don’t always use them - which is a shame for a water baby like me. This photo was taken just after my swim when bartender Isaac (yep, just like Love Boat) rewarded me with his famous Beaches’ MaiTai and Nick came down and captured the moment. It will serve as an excellent reminder for me to always make time for dates with myself and my artist spirit. They are vital for keeping the creativity alive, fed and thriving. #DawnsDestinations #DineandDishWithDawn 📷: @NickYedinak for #DawnMcCoyMedia — with Clarice McCoy at Fashion Island Hotel.