Day 27 - Candle Inktober Watercolor Glass Votive - Doodlewash
By Charlie

An Evening By Candlelight

Written by Charlie O'Shields

This time of year, where I live, the days get far shorter and the sun sets early, casting darkness upon us before we’re quite ready. Thankfully lighting a candle transforms the darkness into a lovely and cozy atmosphere. So, I adore this time of year for the light that comes after dark. Last night, however, I spent a good portion of the evening in darkness while wandering through a couple of haunted houses with a friend and we had a blast! As suspected, I was only startled on several occasions, and spent most of the trip giggling and helping my friend up off the floor when required. I loved the imagination and artistry that went into all of the various rooms and locations we explored. At one point we were even given 3D glasses and had to wander our way through a wild neon colored environment of abstract designs and, yeah, a couple of large monsters. I was so fascinated that I completely forgot to be terrified. It was fun to explore the weird worlds that the artists created even in a place hellbent on scaring people. But, I have to admit, returning home was equally wonderful. Even if I’m not scared of the dark, it’s always nice to have a bit of light to enjoy.

In truth, it felt rare and wonderful to actually be out in the world on a Friday night. Something that happened a lot when I was younger, but these days, it’s an incredibly rare occurrence. The weather was cool, with just a few spidery clouds in the sky, and even the moon was bright and full as though it had dressed for the occasion. For just a moment, I was transported back in time, to my far younger self who had enjoyed these same haunted houses that have been around for over 25 years or more. Though I often talk about feeling like a kid again, sometimes it’s even better to just go ahead and actually be a kid again. It’s fun to do things that we’ve perfectly grown out of and experience them again. And while my child inside can appreciate a bit of spooky fun, there are other things that only my adult side can appreciate fully. Like the glow of a candle and the memories that it brings back to me. Those moments with someone special, spent with just a flickering glow that elevates every emotion in the room. A tiny spot of light that somehow manages to feel like a spotlight on our hearts. Those special moments are beautiful to remember and experience again today.

So, tonight, as the sun begins to set while I’m typing this, I’m going to light a candle as Philippe and I enjoy dinner while listening to a bit of music. Nothing crazy or anything that involves the world outside, but just the lovely comfort of being at home. These are the nights that I cherish. They’re so ridiculously simple that they almost become complex in their intensity. Without a hundred distractions rushing by, each little thing is amplified and made special. That moment of pause is so wonderful and rejuvenating. I adore the weekends for the chance to reset and rewind a bit before starting a brand new work week. Some may enjoy weekends that are packed with various activities, but for me, the quietest moments are often the best. It’s amazing to just be with the person you love most, doing nothing much at all. It’s a beautiful way to spend time together. Time that slows down a bit so that you actually have the opportunity to enjoy it properly. A magical moment that can happen simply by striking a match, sitting back, and pausing to enjoy an evening by candlelight.

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About the Doodlewash

Da Vinci Paint Co.: Yellow Ochre, Opus (Vivid Pink), and Indigo. Lamy Al-Star Safari Fountain Pen with black ink in an A5 Hahnemühle Watercolour Book. Want to purchase a print of this doodlewash? Send me a note with a link to this post, and I’ll add it to my shop!
 Day 27 - Candle Inktober Watercolor Glass Votive Detail - Doodlewash

Charlie O'Shields

Creator of Doodlewash, founder of World Watercolor Month (July), World Watercolor Group, and host of the Sketching Stuff Podcast. Sharing watercolor illustrations and stories while proudly featuring talented artists from all over the world!

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38 thoughts on “An Evening By Candlelight”

  3. I’ve been looking forward to this post because I knew you’d paint a candle, and I love your candles! What a busy week it’s been for you. Parties and Haunted Houses. You’re turning into a positive gadabout!

    Reply

  4. Aww I totally relate to your love and appreciation for weekends. I am especially enjoying them as I age, the quiet and peacefulness. Of course as you say, sharing them with someone you love. I always enjoy your posts Charlie, you have so much to share, not just experiences, it is your unique view and of course, yourself in full fashion. Nowadays it is hard to find such a clear hearted person who is willing to share straight from their spirit. I always feel connected to what you share, no idea why, perhaps it is that you are a sensitive, kindred spirit, one of a kind, we need more of you in this day and age. Cheers and enjoy the rest of your weekend! Along with Phillepe!

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    2. Thank you so much, Margaret! 😃💕 I love that you connect with my posts! That makes me so happy to hear! And your words are so sweet and wonderful… I can’t thank you enough. Showing up each and every day is no small task and so it makes my heart so happy to know that you enjoy it. Hope you had a wonderful weekend as well my friend! ❤️

      Reply

          3. I will ❤️I have been referred to as a ‘straight shooter’ life is too short not to share one’s thoughts or feelings. I have startled quite a few people with my straight forwardness but that is how I roll. 😉

  5. Last night I glanced at the clock and noted that it was 8:30. I already had my pajamas on. I had a quick flashback to my youth when right about that same time I would have been getting ready to go out and hit the bars. My the times have changed! 😂

    Reply

    1. Thanks so much! 😃💕 Yeah, those quiet moments at home are actually the best ones of all. Even the craziest of moments enjoyed out there in the world are made that way because we can compare them to the comfort of home.

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  13. Charlie says, “Even if I’m not scared of the dark, it’s always nice to have a bit of light to enjoy.”

    words to live by!

    You have written a lot of beautiful thoughts, but none more so than this whole post.
    Keep on keeping on!

    Reply

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