Drawing by Danny Gregory from his book Everyday Matters
Okay, so I’ve been working my arse off and haven’t been writing in ages. What I have been doing however (when I finally collapse at the end of the day) is reading. And the book that has brought me the most joy these days is a book called Everyday Matters by Danny Gregory.
This book is a visual journal filled with drawings, stories, and bits of wisdom tucked into unlikely places. I love that the drawings aren’t “perfect” in any traditional way and his stories are incredibly personal and real. Danny is not afraid to tell the truth about things and he does so in a simple and beautiful way.
The story of his family will move you (and his insights that follow) but what brought me to tears at several moments in the book were Danny’s descriptions of why he draws, and how drawing saved his life.
They are so many ways to access the present, to capture the moment, and really stop and see what is around you. But being a visual person, I am attracted to drawing as a way to do this elusive thing… As a way to pray or to “count your blessings” as Danny says. He reminded me of why drawing is a meditation, why it is a spiritual act, and why art makes life richer.
You can see excerpts of his book on his web site. I think you will love it.
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thank you andrea, for sharing this wonderful book. life is really too fragile and uncertain to take for granted…but somehow we do. we all need reminders like these.
I went to Dannys website- it’s sooo damn cool and I just love his drawings and writing. I’m getting the book for sure.
I’ve missed your writings – thanks for all the cool stuff you bring into my world:)
xoxoxox
i just put that book on my amazon wish list a couple days ago! i love it so much. but i am not getting anything for me until i have $500 in my new roth ira… sigh. at least he has a web site and so do you!
I took your advice and checked out Danny’s website. It was even cooler than I expected. His insight and depth of feeling in his writing and drawings really moved me. I am heading to Amazon to see if I can buy this book right now…I can’t wait to read and see more from this inspiring artist. Once again, you are so awesome at finding and sharing great and uplifting sites to visit. Thank you for your generosity, especially at this time of year when we all need to stop and think about what is REALLY inportant. You are a blessing!!!!
Andrea, this is the third time in less than 48 hours that I have read a recommendation for this book. I think I’d better take the hint and get to the local bookstore!
Dear Andrea:
Thank you so much for your kind and insightful words about my book. I am a big fan of your site and your celebration of creativity and it is a real honor to be included in your circle of friends.
Your pal,
Danny
I’ve also been hearing about this book all over the place (The Morning News, Wish Jar Journal, here). And after the loss my family has recently suffered (last week we lost our baby…I was five months pregnant) I think it’s a perfect time for me to read this book. I’ve been thankful for such wonderful inspirations and distractions that have been coming my way lately.
Cool find! I love his website! Thank you for sharing this great book…