Pursuit 365 Day 219: Tamara Spence

I am a mother of two teenage boys, wife, coach of many, former nurse, athlete and artist at my core. I have multiple interests and a desire to please people. I have a hard time putting myself first.

What are you most thankful for today?

It’s a tie… my husband because he lets me muddle my way through things while supporting all my crazy ideas and creativity because if I couldn’t create my life would be miserable.

Who do you most admire in your life?

My husband or partner in pickleball (historically we also played R2’s volleyball together but now we can’t jump no more and I have less temper tantrums). He is kind, loving, silly, smart, just, determined and loyal. He is consistently himself but always learning and changing. Really, who learns to ride a horse at the age of 50? My husband.

What is one way someone has helped you this month?

I was commissioned by my son’s Grad class committee to create a Grad Legacy gift.

I had a successful stint with water colours and a jaunt into realism this past year. However, with school class changes due to Covid I had to coach volleyball in the STA Academy almost every day in the Spring. Not a bad thing for coaching because I love it but, my day was chopped up. I soon left my creative side in the dust preoccupied with family obligations and daily tasks. If I don’t create it takes about a week for my inner harmony to get out of whack.

I committed to creating a 4’x8’ eagle mural with my son’s grad class during the last two weeks of school. Using my original design from one of my water colour paintings. We used paint for the line work and some details and then the students cutup cardboard of all different colours and glued it on in layers. I was there to guide through the steps and push to completion. It turned out amazing. I was able to contribute in my own way during this bizarre pandemic. I constantly have to remind myself that creating fills me up and that I am good enough.

What is the best thing you have enjoyed about your job recently?

One of the amazing young woman who I had the opportunity to coach and coach with this year wrote me a lovely card. It was so amazing to watch her grow as a person, a player and especially a coach. Coach Dahl you are a natural. You’ve come a long way baby. Cannot wait to see the places you will go.

What has improved about your life in the last year?

I gave my husband pickleball paddles for Father’s Day 2020. We tried it and then had a couple of lessons. We joined the Northshore Pickleball Club. We have made numerous friends and have a new physical obsession to replace volleyball because my knees, back and shoulder can’t play it anymore.

What is something you are looking forward to in the future?

During August I am the featured artist at Roam Gallery. I am learning that if I don’t commit to things that make me uncomfortable in my art career that I will not grow.

I enjoy creating through drawing, painting and sculpture, implementing inks, acrylics, cardboard, clay, papier-mâché, and watercolours. I enjoy mixing my mediums and challenging myself. I am process driven and seek nuance.