They grow up way too fast.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Holidays...........and brown paper packages
In the rush of Fall and the holidays of Halloween and Thanksgiving…..time starts moving so fast, that all the things that I have in my heart to celebrate become a blur of activity. The retailers are aglow with ghosts and pumpkins and pilgrims and yes, even Santas and candy canes………..I would like to give each holiday its’ fair time….but I find that during this busy season, with all the different celebrations, that my celebration of Christmas can become a such a frantic whirlwind of activity …….and not enough of my time is spent in reveling in the awe and wonder that this season so rightly deserves. So………..I have decided to stop for a few moments (and yes I know that it is October) to think on things that should be pondered more often….way more often during the year…….so I’m starting my heartfelt Christmas journaling early this year…so early in fact, that my blog entries will seem to flit from here to there………….and rightly so….my brain does this on a regular basis….:D
“Brown paper packages tied up with strings, these are a few of my favorite things……….”
The excitement that wrapped gifts bring……the thrill and the anticipation of an unopened gift….. What a wonderful way to illustrate the miracle that Christmas brings to each of us.
The birth of our Savior…..The Gift to all people…….
The wonder of this newborn baby…….quietly sleeping, wrapped gently in warm blankets, in a manger filled with golden hay. His presence is radiant….the stars glow from the heavens and light the way for all to see him……splendid as he is……His parents are so pure of heart and so full of faith….that they were chosen to receive this precious gift……the thrill and the anticipation….what wonders are about to be revealed?…..what wonders will come? This is the greatest of all gifts ever given. This is the gift of true love.
We are so right to feel the excitement and the mystery…. the anticipation and the thrill of that oh most holy of nights. When, angels filled the air with songs; and kings and shepherds joined together to worship the birth of one most precious baby. When past and future joined together in one magnificent moment and the earth stood still with awe and wonder.
Remember what we celebrate this season. The gifts are just symbols. Symbols of things new, symbols of love, symbols of hope……………..But, what we need to remember is what we celebrate is real…….It was real then. It is real now. It will always be real. He is our gift and hope. He is our love and life. He is eternal and his love is everlasting. He is our light home.
“Brown paper packages tied up with strings, these are a few of my favorite things……….”
The excitement that wrapped gifts bring……the thrill and the anticipation of an unopened gift….. What a wonderful way to illustrate the miracle that Christmas brings to each of us.
The birth of our Savior…..The Gift to all people…….
The wonder of this newborn baby…….quietly sleeping, wrapped gently in warm blankets, in a manger filled with golden hay. His presence is radiant….the stars glow from the heavens and light the way for all to see him……splendid as he is……His parents are so pure of heart and so full of faith….that they were chosen to receive this precious gift……the thrill and the anticipation….what wonders are about to be revealed?…..what wonders will come? This is the greatest of all gifts ever given. This is the gift of true love.
We are so right to feel the excitement and the mystery…. the anticipation and the thrill of that oh most holy of nights. When, angels filled the air with songs; and kings and shepherds joined together to worship the birth of one most precious baby. When past and future joined together in one magnificent moment and the earth stood still with awe and wonder.
Remember what we celebrate this season. The gifts are just symbols. Symbols of things new, symbols of love, symbols of hope……………..But, what we need to remember is what we celebrate is real…….It was real then. It is real now. It will always be real. He is our gift and hope. He is our love and life. He is eternal and his love is everlasting. He is our light home.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Saturday, October 3, 2009
All Souls' Day ..... Day of the Dead ..... Art Exchange
Here are my art pieces for the Mother Henna "Day of the Dead" Art Exchange. I thought I would put up some pictures of my process of creating. I drew the picture, then transferred it to a stamp block and cut it out. I stamped, inked, swirled colors, layered inks for the overall texture. The inside of the eyes are hand drawn with glitter pens and glitter pens and spider writers were used to continue to layer on top. The bones and face of the skeleton have a shiny gloss coating and I have used silver and clear glitter pens to accent different areas of the hood and cloak. I inked the edges of the paper and the edges of some orange cardstock and layered the art onto the orange cardstock and ta-dah...........
The cards are packed in clear envelopes ready to be mailed to Kara. I can't wait to see all the other "Day of the Dead" Art. Be sure to go to her blog http://www.motherhenna.blogspot.com to check out the progress on the "Day of the Dead" celebrations.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Six Word Saturday
My 6 words for Six Word Saturday..............are:
Running water is a beautiful thing.
Running water is a beautiful thing.
Wishcasting Wednesday - What Luxury Do You Wish For?
Jamie Ridler's prompt in this past weeks Wishcasting Wednesday....asks....."What Luxury do you wish for?" hmmmmmmmmmmmmm...good prompt...............
I wish for a small house on the beach.............that I can go to anytime, from anywhere................ with friends and family, or completely alone.........filled with art supplies, good books, and great food..................no clocks, no phones, no tv..............and so it is..................
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Changes.....................
Richard Gere’s character in Shall We Dance says the following to his wife after she finds out that he has been taking dance lessons without her knowledge.
“The one thing I am proudest of in my whole life is that you're happy with me. If I couldn't, if I couldn't tell you that I was unhappy sometimes, is because I didn't want to risk hurting the one person I treasure most. I'm so sorry.”
We all change and grow and learn and love. Many times even the different parts of ourselves change and grow and learn and love at different paces. It doesn’t mean that we are unhappy with our life. It doesn’t mean that we don’t love our family. It just means that we are living….we grow…….we change…..we need different things…..it doesn’t mean that we want everything to change….but it can mean that a change is needed…….whether it is dance lessons, traveling to new places, learning organic gardening…………To live is to grow……to grow is to change……..if we don’t change and grow……… we die.
In Sue Monk Kidd’s new book Traveling with Pomegranates, Sue and her daughter, Ann; engage us in the “passing of the baton” of womanhood from mother to daughter. As I sat on the beach this past weekend and immersed myself into their story, it wasn’t hard to see the similarities in our lives……it felt as if the words were written just for me……me…pushing 50……,,.me…….starting to create my own new world (while keeping many parts of it the same)……no longer the mom of small children……..no longer creating new life within myself…….learning that creating is life…..whether it be creating a baby, a poem, a work of art, a great dinner, a loving home…………..me,, with beautiful, articulate daughters that are each finding their own unique voice and style..….......becoming…..becoming who they are…….…who God made them to be………….ready…ready to take the world by storm………..ready to create…..new lives, new loves, new spirit…………and in the midst of all this change…..recognition of the miraculous voice of the divine in each of the changes.
And still…..there is the ever so subtle feeling of loss……loss of youth….loss of “mommy hood”, loss of skin without wrinkles………And in my determination to work through the feelings of loss… a new sense of power at my own becoming……becoming someone who isn’t so involved in looks and things…..someone who is a good teacher and healer……..someone who is able to take the world in her arms…….someone who can see children (of all ages) from all over the world as her own children….someone who is growing into a wiser old woman…..a more laid back woman…..a much more spiritual woman……I am on my way to becoming the woman I am to be for this second half of my life…………….and I’m liking her….especially her strength and her compassion.
And I am able to watch my girls, as they begin the newness of their own lives….being out on their own for the first time…..learning to love……..…..learning how to hold on to who they really are while learning about relationships……..finding their own way through life…………..learning about change………….. I get to watch all of this with much love and with a heart bursting with pride at the women that they are becoming.
What wonderful journeys we all are on.
“The one thing I am proudest of in my whole life is that you're happy with me. If I couldn't, if I couldn't tell you that I was unhappy sometimes, is because I didn't want to risk hurting the one person I treasure most. I'm so sorry.”
We all change and grow and learn and love. Many times even the different parts of ourselves change and grow and learn and love at different paces. It doesn’t mean that we are unhappy with our life. It doesn’t mean that we don’t love our family. It just means that we are living….we grow…….we change…..we need different things…..it doesn’t mean that we want everything to change….but it can mean that a change is needed…….whether it is dance lessons, traveling to new places, learning organic gardening…………To live is to grow……to grow is to change……..if we don’t change and grow……… we die.
In Sue Monk Kidd’s new book Traveling with Pomegranates, Sue and her daughter, Ann; engage us in the “passing of the baton” of womanhood from mother to daughter. As I sat on the beach this past weekend and immersed myself into their story, it wasn’t hard to see the similarities in our lives……it felt as if the words were written just for me……me…pushing 50……,,.me…….starting to create my own new world (while keeping many parts of it the same)……no longer the mom of small children……..no longer creating new life within myself…….learning that creating is life…..whether it be creating a baby, a poem, a work of art, a great dinner, a loving home…………..me,, with beautiful, articulate daughters that are each finding their own unique voice and style..….......becoming…..becoming who they are…….…who God made them to be………….ready…ready to take the world by storm………..ready to create…..new lives, new loves, new spirit…………and in the midst of all this change…..recognition of the miraculous voice of the divine in each of the changes.
And still…..there is the ever so subtle feeling of loss……loss of youth….loss of “mommy hood”, loss of skin without wrinkles………And in my determination to work through the feelings of loss… a new sense of power at my own becoming……becoming someone who isn’t so involved in looks and things…..someone who is a good teacher and healer……..someone who is able to take the world in her arms…….someone who can see children (of all ages) from all over the world as her own children….someone who is growing into a wiser old woman…..a more laid back woman…..a much more spiritual woman……I am on my way to becoming the woman I am to be for this second half of my life…………….and I’m liking her….especially her strength and her compassion.
And I am able to watch my girls, as they begin the newness of their own lives….being out on their own for the first time…..learning to love……..…..learning how to hold on to who they really are while learning about relationships……..finding their own way through life…………..learning about change………….. I get to watch all of this with much love and with a heart bursting with pride at the women that they are becoming.
What wonderful journeys we all are on.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Lists
Sometimes when I'm feeling out of touch with myself, I will have an overwhelming sense of urgency to write....and to get things cleared out of my head......
but I can't always figure out where to start. That's when I will make lists.....lists of likes........lists of dislikes...........lists of favorites......lists of books..........lists of whatever. This always helps. I get words onto paper (or blog) and I feel better. It's definitely not Shakespeare, but it is cathartic.
10 Favorite Books
1. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
2. A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson
3. Anna Woman of Miracles by Haenni and Van Vick
4. Inspiration by Dr. Wayne Dyer
5. The Language of Letting Go by Melodie Beattie
6. Poem Crazy by Susan Goldsmith Wooldridge
7. Living Juicy by SARK
8. The Nine Modern Day Muses (and a bodyguard) by Jill Badonsky
9. What We Ache For by Oriah Mountain Dreamer
10. The Jesus Dynasty by James D Tabor
So there they are....10 out of my zillions of favorite books....in no particular order. I do love to read.....and I'm feeling better already.
Blessings
but I can't always figure out where to start. That's when I will make lists.....lists of likes........lists of dislikes...........lists of favorites......lists of books..........lists of whatever. This always helps. I get words onto paper (or blog) and I feel better. It's definitely not Shakespeare, but it is cathartic.
10 Favorite Books
1. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
2. A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson
3. Anna Woman of Miracles by Haenni and Van Vick
4. Inspiration by Dr. Wayne Dyer
5. The Language of Letting Go by Melodie Beattie
6. Poem Crazy by Susan Goldsmith Wooldridge
7. Living Juicy by SARK
8. The Nine Modern Day Muses (and a bodyguard) by Jill Badonsky
9. What We Ache For by Oriah Mountain Dreamer
10. The Jesus Dynasty by James D Tabor
So there they are....10 out of my zillions of favorite books....in no particular order. I do love to read.....and I'm feeling better already.
Blessings
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Wise words
The thought for the day………….I ask that you to take into consideration these words……
“Acting Simply” by Lao-Tzu
True leaders
Are hardly known to their followers.
Next after them are the leaders
The people know and admire;
After them, those they fear;
After them, those they despise.
To give no trust
Is to get no trust.
When the work’s done right,
With no fuss or boasting,
Ordinary people say,
“Oh, we did it.”
A portion of the definition of the word “trust” in my handy old (the last president listed is Nixon) Webster’s dictionary is “1. Firm belief in the honesty, reliability, etc. of some person or thing; faith. 2. The one trusted. 3. Confident expectation, hope, etc.: as, have trust in the future. 4. The fact of having confidence placed in one. 5. Care; custody. 6. Something entrusted to a person: charge, duty, future ability to pay for goods, etc; credit…..and on…….”
The definition of the word “faith” is “1. Unquestioning belief. 2. Unquestioning belief in God, religion, etc. 3. A particular religion. 4. Anything believed. 5. Complete trust or confidence. 6. Loyalty…….etc.”
We need both trust and faith……….and prayer…..Pray…pray with loving hearts for a loving peaceful world.
“Acting Simply” by Lao-Tzu
True leaders
Are hardly known to their followers.
Next after them are the leaders
The people know and admire;
After them, those they fear;
After them, those they despise.
To give no trust
Is to get no trust.
When the work’s done right,
With no fuss or boasting,
Ordinary people say,
“Oh, we did it.”
A portion of the definition of the word “trust” in my handy old (the last president listed is Nixon) Webster’s dictionary is “1. Firm belief in the honesty, reliability, etc. of some person or thing; faith. 2. The one trusted. 3. Confident expectation, hope, etc.: as, have trust in the future. 4. The fact of having confidence placed in one. 5. Care; custody. 6. Something entrusted to a person: charge, duty, future ability to pay for goods, etc; credit…..and on…….”
The definition of the word “faith” is “1. Unquestioning belief. 2. Unquestioning belief in God, religion, etc. 3. A particular religion. 4. Anything believed. 5. Complete trust or confidence. 6. Loyalty…….etc.”
We need both trust and faith……….and prayer…..Pray…pray with loving hearts for a loving peaceful world.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Savannah
I recently spent a few lovely days discovering Savannah with my daughter (who just moved there). I have passed through Savannah, but had never really stopped to soak in all the history and beauty......It is absolutely gorgeous there....and Ashley's new apartment is just awesome...built in the 1800's and has gorgeous fireplaces and woodwork.......such a fun place to live..........
Friday, July 17, 2009
Sage Seven Visions Project
A call to all artists, peacekeepers, light bearers, peaceful spirits....
Please visit my new blog: www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com.
In starting The Sage Seven Visions Project, it is my hope to heal the world one beautiful piece of art at a time. I envision submitting heart inspiring and thought provoking prompts using quotations, heart thoughts (mine and others), and words to create a safe place to share our dreams of universal peace and love for all.
Once a week, I will post a theme to think on and create with. You can create art, poetry, photos, digital art.....whatever way you choose to interpret the theme is wonderful. I would love for everyone to share their work.
I am providing plenty of open space for this project to stretch and dream and grow. The SSV Project needs you, your open, loving, creative soul,and your wonderful, healing thoughts and ideas to blossom. Let's grow this together.
Please visit www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com for more info.....and again on Monday morning, July 20th, 2009 for our first prompt.
Blessings!
Please visit my new blog: www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com.
In starting The Sage Seven Visions Project, it is my hope to heal the world one beautiful piece of art at a time. I envision submitting heart inspiring and thought provoking prompts using quotations, heart thoughts (mine and others), and words to create a safe place to share our dreams of universal peace and love for all.
Once a week, I will post a theme to think on and create with. You can create art, poetry, photos, digital art.....whatever way you choose to interpret the theme is wonderful. I would love for everyone to share their work.
I am providing plenty of open space for this project to stretch and dream and grow. The SSV Project needs you, your open, loving, creative soul,and your wonderful, healing thoughts and ideas to blossom. Let's grow this together.
Please visit www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com for more info.....and again on Monday morning, July 20th, 2009 for our first prompt.
Blessings!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Another wonderful artist blog to visit
http://studiomme.blogspot.com/2009/07/blog-post.html
I just found this wonderful blog and artist today. Please visit her giveaway. Her art is amazing.
Also...I have been having such fun visiting so many new (to me) blogs. One such blog is Thursday Sweet Treat......it has a challenge to play with posted every Friday for art to be submitted by the next Thursday. Fun....and happy......
I just found this wonderful blog and artist today. Please visit her giveaway. Her art is amazing.
Also...I have been having such fun visiting so many new (to me) blogs. One such blog is Thursday Sweet Treat......it has a challenge to play with posted every Friday for art to be submitted by the next Thursday. Fun....and happy......
New Art
I've been busy for the past few weeks working on some new paintings.
Some are mixed media on wood.... some are mixed media on canvas...some are mixed media on paper....as soon as I get the prints made, these (and others) will be listed on my etsy site....
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
A Wonderful GiveAway
Wishcasting Wednesday
Wishcasting Wednesday....July 15's prompt is
What do you wish to invite in?
My answer is..........
I wish to invite in the sacredness of being truly
in every moment of my life. This is my wish.
Blessings to each of you and may all of your
wishes come true.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Attitude is Everything
I've just spent 5 days...... in Atlanta, Georgia ....in the summer..... at my home..... without air conditioning. Realizing, of course, what a baby I am about the need for temperature control. There was nothing that we could do to save our 14 year old system.....we had to have her pulled out and hauled away. The new system took all day to install, and by the time the guys were finished and the sweet cool, air started coming up through the vents, it was all I could do not to kiss those guys on the lips...... Working Air Conditioning........who would have thought that these 3 words would be so pleasant to hear.....like a melody, really.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
Pen Making
Going from square chunks of wood to beautiful pens......fun to do.........once everything is glued up (first 2 pics).......then I get to turn the pens (no pic).....it's amazing how beautiful the patterns in the different woods can be. The close up picture is a pen made from olive wood from the Holy Land.
I will be putting some in my etsy store......
if I have any left at the end of the day........these pens are flying away as fast as I can make them.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Photo Friday - Weekend
This is my entry for Photo Friday's prompt
"Weekend". It is a path to discover time for
fun, a path to discover new things, a well worn
path to wherever you would have the weekend
take you. Have a great weekend!
Inspire Me Thursday - Swirl
This is my entry for the Inspire Me Thursday
prompt - Swirl - it is a mixed media painting that
I did last year.......she is swirling, the colors and flowers
and circles swirl around her.
She is caught up in a swirl.................
A happy swirl...........
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Sunday, March 1, 2009
And We Have Snow..........
This doesn't seem like much to many of you living in other
parts of the country.......but we have snow......for the first time
in a couple of years..........and it's a really pretty one with the
kind of big fat flakes that you can hear as they hit the ground.
When we lived in Michigan....we had tons of snow....but that
was 15 years ago........so...........when it snows here.....it's an
event.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Photo Friday - City Life
This weeks prompt for Photo Friday was
"City Life". Here's my photo of one of the world's
busiest cities.....New York.......the city that
never sleeps...........the big apple................Times
Square............Broadway...............need I say more?
Lake Kedron
It's the end of February............
the trees are slowly awakening and their
small buds are beginning to make an appearance.
The daffodils and crocus are out and joyously splashing their vibrant yellows
and purples against the still dormant grass. The lake is
full of life and water.....which is wonderful because this time last year
it was down so low that the dock wasn't even in the water. This week
the blue in the sky and the blue of the lake seemed postcard perfect.
The air was warm and the breeze was gentle. It seemed like spring was here
for good.....but tonight, for the first time this winter...snow is predicted.
Maybe an inch or two....welcome to winter in Atlanta.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
This and that
My mind is scattered and so this entry is kindof scattered also.
It's a little bit of this and that from life.
Books that I am reading .....
St Mary Magdalene,
The Nag Hammadi Scriptures,
The Gnostic Discoveries, and
The Miracles of Archangel Michael
and a few others just for fun.
My new Vision Board is colorful and creative and
activated.
I am excited about going to Sedona to take a Karuna
reiki class.
The journaling class that I am teaching next
week is full and is going to be awesome.
The Valentines that I received from the Artist
Collaborative at Mother Henna's blog were wonderful.
It was such fun to make 20 Valentines and trade them....
just like in elementary school.
I haven't decided what to give up for Lent this year, but
I have a few ideas.
I am trying to purge my house of unwanted or unused
stuff. I filled 4 bags today....hopefully tomorrow there
will be many more. It always feels so good to get it out of
the house and into the hands of others who might use it.
I love looking at all the cool art on ETSY.
Have you seen Jennifer Jones' new Mermaid
dolls at her Buttuglee Creations? They are so
much fun.
A quote for today:"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost,to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." Eleanor Roosevelt
Blessings and Peace
It's a little bit of this and that from life.
Books that I am reading .....
St Mary Magdalene,
The Nag Hammadi Scriptures,
The Gnostic Discoveries, and
The Miracles of Archangel Michael
and a few others just for fun.
My new Vision Board is colorful and creative and
activated.
I am excited about going to Sedona to take a Karuna
reiki class.
The journaling class that I am teaching next
week is full and is going to be awesome.
The Valentines that I received from the Artist
Collaborative at Mother Henna's blog were wonderful.
It was such fun to make 20 Valentines and trade them....
just like in elementary school.
I haven't decided what to give up for Lent this year, but
I have a few ideas.
I am trying to purge my house of unwanted or unused
stuff. I filled 4 bags today....hopefully tomorrow there
will be many more. It always feels so good to get it out of
the house and into the hands of others who might use it.
I love looking at all the cool art on ETSY.
Have you seen Jennifer Jones' new Mermaid
dolls at her Buttuglee Creations? They are so
much fun.
A quote for today:"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost,to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience." Eleanor Roosevelt
Blessings and Peace
Friday, February 13, 2009
Photo Friday - Pets
Photo Friday's prompt today is "Pets" and I have
been blessed with some wonderful ones....here are
2 of my favorite pictures.
This is Zoe.
She was such a wonderful dog... always protective
of our family and a gentle soul. I miss her.
This is Charlie on his first day at home. He is now 2 years
old. He is a SweetHeart....and he can always make me laugh.
been blessed with some wonderful ones....here are
2 of my favorite pictures.
This is Zoe.
She was such a wonderful dog... always protective
of our family and a gentle soul. I miss her.
This is Charlie on his first day at home. He is now 2 years
old. He is a SweetHeart....and he can always make me laugh.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Celebrating my heART
My 20 cards for the Artist Collaborative at
A hand carved stamp, stamped, hand colored and painted on white paper...
attached to a square of red paper.....black ink around all edges.....quote (author?)
"All I really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt."
A chocolate kiss is attached to the left hand bottom edge.....cut from hershey kiss foil
and hershey kiss labels.
Inside says "Happy Valentines Day".
The back of the card has my business card, date, and the card number in the series of 20
(ie 1/20.........20/20)
The card is 5 x7. Each one has been placed in an unsealed envelope for protection.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Celebrating my heART
I have just finished making my 20
limited edition Valentine art cards for
an artists collaboration that is hosted
by Kara (Mother Henna). I am not going
to post my pics at this time, just in case
she would rather do it first on her blog...but,
I'll post here very soon.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Bits of Wool Christmas Giveaway
Bits of Wool is also hosting a great Christmas giveaway.
Please click the Christmas wreath or the link below
to go to her blog.
I wish I had found her site earlier....her blog is a fun read....
and I could have linked this giveaway up earlier!
http://bitsofwool.blogspot.com/2008/11/christmas-giveaway.html
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Katie's Magic Cottage
I wanted to share this with everyone..........David and I made this cottage for our niece who is 3 years old............We have had so much fun making it......painting it......making things for it.........It has been such a magic Christmas present to ourselves as well as to Katie. I can't wait for her to see it.
Christmas Tree
Christmas ornaments from Christmas Past.....ornaments from my Grandmothers' trees....ornaments that my girls made when they were much younger......ornaments my mom made........one I made in girl scouts.......ornaments from when I was a kid. Memories.............lots of memories.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Journaling Christmas - photos from today - (prompt #8)
Find Christmas in your Heart. Find JOY.
Blessings to all.....it doesn't matter your religion, your age,
your nationality, how big or how small you are, what
size you wear, or the color of your eyes.........
May peace be with you
this season........
now and always.
Journaling Chistmas - to do lists - (prompt #7)
Thinking of all the things that need to be done before Christmas can be daunting.....I'm going to try to liven things up by doing an ABC List................just to see if I can............
A address the envelopes for the Christmas cards
B buy presents
C candy canes....get a bunch!
D decorate the front door of my home
E enlist the help of the girls for making cookies
F find the perfect present for each girl
G gifts for extended family
H hang some mistletoe
I invite friends over for dinner
J jackets for homeless
K kiss David
L list needed baking/cooking ingredients
M make a big grocery store run
N notice angelic moments
O only do the things that really celebrate Christmas
P presents look pretty with fun trimmings...buy trimmings
Q quiet time....remember to find some
R relish the family time
S secret Santa gift
T Toys for Tots donation
U unpack the tree decorations
V vacuum, dust, and clean house
W wardrobe - what to wear on Christmas day
X X off the items on my to do list
Y Yorkshire pudding - is this the time to try and make it?
Z zeal -keep up the zeal without burning out
and there it is.....my ABC to do list for this Christmas....I had better get a move on.
B buy presents
C candy canes....get a bunch!
D decorate the front door of my home
E enlist the help of the girls for making cookies
F find the perfect present for each girl
G gifts for extended family
H hang some mistletoe
I invite friends over for dinner
J jackets for homeless
K kiss David
L list needed baking/cooking ingredients
M make a big grocery store run
N notice angelic moments
O only do the things that really celebrate Christmas
P presents look pretty with fun trimmings...buy trimmings
Q quiet time....remember to find some
R relish the family time
S secret Santa gift
T Toys for Tots donation
U unpack the tree decorations
V vacuum, dust, and clean house
W wardrobe - what to wear on Christmas day
X X off the items on my to do list
Y Yorkshire pudding - is this the time to try and make it?
Z zeal -keep up the zeal without burning out
and there it is.....my ABC to do list for this Christmas....I had better get a move on.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Journaling Christmas - A Tale of Two Christmases (prompt #6)
It was the best of times……….it was the worst of times……I guess I’ll start with the worst Christmas……We had invited all my husband’s family to our house for Christmas….His parents, three of his four siblings and their significant others, and their children. Let' s just say after much planning, cooking, and shopping........it was not even close to the Christmas that I had imagined....... I would go into detail ....in fact I did...... I just deleted it......because some things really are better off unsaid......and why stir up old hurts when they have been forgiven........Now….for the best Christmas………I have been blessed with so many wonderful Christmases that it is really hard to choose……I think all my very favorite Christmases were when the girls were little…..nothing is so wonderful as when experiencing the wonder of Christmas through our children’s eyes……there was one extra special Christmas…… it was the Christmas that I was 7 1/2 months pregnant with my first baby……….the Christmas service was the Nativity story………and when Mary came in riding on the donkey, so pregnant….and then giving birth to beautiful Jesus……….it was extra special to me because of the new life I was carrying within me…..I felt so close to Mary…..and marveled at how she must have felt………and how wonderful that night surely was.
Giveaway at Oodlekadoodle Primitives
Please check out Sue's blog....she has such an awesome giveaway going on! Just click on the link below and see all the goodies.
http://oodlekadoodleprimitives.blogspot.com/2008_12_01_archive.html#8732755922232977382
http://oodlekadoodleprimitives.blogspot.com/2008_12_01_archive.html#8732755922232977382
Friday, December 5, 2008
25 of my favorite things about Christmas - in no particular order
1. Christmas trees with lots of lights
2. ornaments from when the girls were babies
3. the smell of cinnamon
4. baking cookies in the kitchen with the girls laughing and dancing and everything is covered with sprinkles and flour
5. Christmas Eve Candlelight service
6. the eyes of small children when they see Santa
7. making ornaments with seeds and peanut butter for the birds
8. filling stockings for family and for people I don't know
9. snow
10. The Nativity
11. seeing angels in unexpected places
12. unexpected people becoming angels
13. Christmas music
14. Carolers
15. Christmas displays in toy shop windows
16. time to relax by the fireplace with a cup of tea and family
17. old Christmas movies
18. candy canes, sugar cookies, and pumpkin pie
19. the expressions of people opening gifts
20. buying tons of candy canes and giving one to everyone that I meet
21. when everything is wrapped and under the tree
22. hot chocolate with candy cane stick straws
23. "Silent Night" and "Oh, Holy Night"
24. David's eyes when he is watching the girls open presents
25. One gigantic birthday party!
2. ornaments from when the girls were babies
3. the smell of cinnamon
4. baking cookies in the kitchen with the girls laughing and dancing and everything is covered with sprinkles and flour
5. Christmas Eve Candlelight service
6. the eyes of small children when they see Santa
7. making ornaments with seeds and peanut butter for the birds
8. filling stockings for family and for people I don't know
9. snow
10. The Nativity
11. seeing angels in unexpected places
12. unexpected people becoming angels
13. Christmas music
14. Carolers
15. Christmas displays in toy shop windows
16. time to relax by the fireplace with a cup of tea and family
17. old Christmas movies
18. candy canes, sugar cookies, and pumpkin pie
19. the expressions of people opening gifts
20. buying tons of candy canes and giving one to everyone that I meet
21. when everything is wrapped and under the tree
22. hot chocolate with candy cane stick straws
23. "Silent Night" and "Oh, Holy Night"
24. David's eyes when he is watching the girls open presents
25. One gigantic birthday party!
Journaling Christmas - Counting down the Days
When I was still living at home with my parents (quite a long time ago).... every year we would put up the Advent calendar that I made when I was younger. The background was white felt and on it was a green Christmas tree.....there were circles (with numbers embroidered on them) running down both sides of the banner........we pinned small Christmas ornaments on each number....... and, every day a new ornament was placed on the tree. The first ornament was always the Angel for the top of the tree and the Nativity scene always found itself nestled under the tree on the 25th. Each day the anticipation would grow and grow until we would almost explode with excitement....I still can't believe that Mom and Dad (well, mostly Mom) would let us get up early and I do mean early Christmas morning (I'm talking 3, 4 am) to check to see if Santa had filled our stockings. (My children, much to my mom's dismay, weren't allowed to step a foot into the den until a decent hour (at least 8:00) "D ...and everyone had to go into the den at the same time.) Now, this year "Journaling Christmas" is my Advent calendar. Each afternoon, after I get Shelby from school, I take my time.....dancing through the memories in my mind....being led in directions and into days past that I haven't thought of in a while......these journal prompts are such a blessing. I have promised myself that I will do this daily...and so far, so good. I am very thankful for this new kind of Advent calendar.... this one will help me to think and feel and soul search....and remember....kind of like the ghost of Christmas past....put to paper. I think that's a keeper!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Journaling Christmas - Daydreaming about the Perfect Christmas
Daydreaming about my perfect Christmas…..I believe that a perfect Christmas for me would be one that started with the Christmas and Holiday cards being mailed out on time. That I could find, make, or purchase one perfect gift for each member of my family. The house would be lightly decorated….with candles and greenery….a Christmas tree with handmade and vintage ornaments….. the smell of cinnamon. There would be plenty of sugar cookies and pumpkin pie. We would adopt a family and surprise them a few days before Christmas with all the Christmas trimmings…Food, presents, a tree……stockings filled with small surprises….and an early visit from Santa Claus. On Christmas eve, one of my favorite ministers would provide a most meaningful sermon….after which we would return to a warm home full of good friends and extended family….to the scent of Christmas cookies and the sound of laughter…there would be a wonderful glowing fire in the fireplace and snow silently falling outside creating a magical wonderland. There would be a knock at the door and a bundled up group of people would be singing Christmas carols…and we would invite them in for cookies. After a wonderful evening, as we get ready for bed, I turn on the television and hear the words that a giant wave of peace and goodwill has surrounded our planet… all the wars have ended……all children are warm and fed….and everyone is safe and healthy and loved…Then, I would say a prayer of thanksgiving…for all of our blessings……for joy in the world…..and then, I would fall into a totally blissful sleep…only to be awakened hours later by squeals of delight and the smell of cinnamon rolls dripping with icing.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Journaling Christmas - Christmas cards
I love looking through old Christmas Cards….I never have the heart to throw any of them away…even the ones with just signatures….each it’s own time capsule, holding memories of people and places and times past…signatures and notes from people that I love that have passed on, causing me to pause and say a prayer on their behalf….causing me to remind myself that life is short and to live in the moment. The cards with pictures and newsletters make me smile at how clothing styles have changed, how our houses and homes have changed, and they make me wonder what the world holds for my children….What will things be like when they are my age? I love shopping for Christmas cards, reading all the different sentiments…seeing all the ways, rhymes, and reasons that the Holiday season presents itself to different people. I love to read them all…the funny and the religious. I have bought both in seasons past, but as I get older, the ones that I am drawn to purchase are the ones with Mary and the baby Jesus, Nativity Cards, and cards with Angels. Those with sentiments of love, hope, and joy ring true to my heart. Now, I must confess, I am not the best at sending cards, I have good intentions, sometimes spending weeks creating my own, or writing little notes in the ones that I buy, and then they sit there for a while, maybe get pushed under a pile of junk mail and then it’s almost Christmas and I notice that…oh…. my…goodness….I haven’t mailed them yet. I am sure that there have been years that my cards were the last to arrive. I do try….and then all the Santa things start piling up and my to do list gets out of hand, and cards are usually lost in the rush. This year, my intentions are honorable; and hopefully writing about how much I enjoy receiving cards, will entice me to go ahead and address those envelopes, get the pretty Christmas stamps, and send those lovely, warm, joyful greetings to all my friends and family…..and if I’m late, well, hopefully all those people will still know how much that I love them and how much they mean to me and will enjoy the cards…even if they are late.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Journaling Christmas – weather -
"I'm dreaming of a White Christmas, just like the ones I used to know." Really, I'm praying for a White Christmas, just like the ones I used to know. Growing up in the mountains of Western North Carolina, we got all kinds of weather, cold, sometimes warm, rain, sun, and then every once in a while snow. There is absolutely nothing like waking up on Christmas morning to a blanket of beautiful, white, pristine, magical, wonderful snow. When my girls were young, we lived in Michigan for a few fabulous years…and we often got snow there….but, we usually weren't home on Christmas….we were visiting family in the south. That's okay because we still had some of the most awesome snows. Michigan is a great place to live if you like snow. The snows there were soft and did not pack well….they were usually deep and fun to sled on and we did make some wonderful igloos (well more like lean tos), snowmen, and snow angels. We have been living near Atlanta now for about 14 years, and I really miss Christmas snows. It doesn't snow often here, but when it does, we make the most of it. Knowing that they usually don't last too long, we sled, make snowmen, and whip up some snow ice cream. We'll stay out until our noses are red and our hands are tingly….then maybe, just maybe we'll come in for some hot chocolate or hot tea with peppermint. It would be a most magical Christmas for me if it would snow on Christmas Eve. The holiest night, wrapped in a blanket of snow…..the quietness…and the peacefulness….staying up late by the fire and watching the flakes silently falling, what a Christmas that would be…………..and then on Christmas day, the kids (of all ages) can go and make some more holiday memories.!
Journaling Christmas
Lyrics to Faith Hill's beautiful Christmas song...
Where are you Christmas, why can't I find you?
Why have you gone away? Where is the laughter you used to bring me?
Why can't I hear music play? My world is changing...I'm rearranging...
Does that mean Christmas changes too?
Where are you Christmas? Do you remember?
The one you used to know? I'm not the same one...
See what the time's done..Is that why you have let me go?
Christmas is here....everywhere. Christmas is here if you care...
If there is love in your heart and your mind...
You will feel like Christmas all the time.
I feel you Christmas, I know I've found you...You never fade away...
The joy of Christmas, stays here inside us....
Fills each and every heart with love.
Where are you Christmas....fills your heart with love.
And, this is one reason that I am journaling Christmas this year. It can go by in such a whirlwind of constant motion. ... a flurry of shopping, gifts, parties, food........I need more. But, not more of those things.....I need to feel Christmas. I need to remember Christmas. I need time to reflect....time for realizing the absolute joy of it all. I need time for the awe and the admiration....time for meditation....time for quiet reflections. I need to feel Christmas and I need to see it in other hearts and faces.
So, starting now, today....I will keep a daily journal about Christmas. In this journal, I will reflect on Christmas' past, present, and future. I am going to slow it down and relish every moment..... and in doing so....I am taking back Christmas....so are many others....wouldn't you like to join in too?
Monday, December 1, 2008
The Great Christmas Give Away
What fun! Angelina's Trinkets is hosting
The Great Christmas Give Away. She has
many artists listed on her blog that are
giving away their beautiful artworks. What
a great way to get into the spirit of giving!
Come and join in the fun.
I will be giving away
this mixed media art quilt. (I have the quilt leaning
against the background, so it looks uneven...in reality, it
is much more symmetrical.)
This quilt measures 6 1/2 x 8 1/2".
The words are "Everything Grows with Love".
The stitching is a combination of hand and
machine stitching. And, as with all my art,
it is infused with Reiki....unconditional love.
If you would like to be in the drawing for this
mixed media art quilt, just leave a message on
this blog entry with 1. your favorite Christmas
Memory...and 2. your email address so I can get in
touch with you.... Drawing will be held on Christmas Eve.
Good Luck....Best Wishes.....and Blessings
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Visions and Thank you(s)
The Vision Board by Joyce Schwarz is out now and it is getting good reviews. I would like to thank Joyce for putting my artwork "Gratitude" in the book. It was quite an honor, being asked....and even though none of the artists in the book were paid, or will be paid, being included was exciting. I would also like to thank Leslie aka Funky Art Queen for highlighting my work on Etsy, because I am sure that it was because of this that Joyce saw my art......I would also like to thank Kara aka Mother Henna for her amazing blog and for sharing her life and for her love of surfing the net and the inspiration that it brings and to Suzie at Suzie's Sacred Space for giving me a place to develop my visionboards (dreamboards) and share others visions and dreams as well. These three ladies were my first blog friends and they are very special people. And, I have been blessed by meeting some amazing artists while working on this book. I especially would like to thank artist Jayne Pierce aka zjayne for her kind words and her inspired art. Please take a minute and visit these ladies' sites...you will be blessed.....by both their art and their words.........
Friday, November 14, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Soul Coaching - Day 4
Becoming a Sacred Observer...... It is so hard to not try and fix thing for my girls. I know they have to deal with their own "stuff"....and really at their ages they need me more as a sounding board than as a "fixer". But it is so hard..just being a sacred observer, as they bring their issues into my life. Do I think, somewhere in the back of my mind, that I am better at caring for them and dealing with issues than they are? Why do I need to hold on to the "Mommy can make everything better" phase? I can not always make things better for them now, but I hope that I have provided them with the tools that they will need as they deal with things on their own. I, of course, will always be here for them....but, it's their time to fly on their own. And, really, it's my time to remember how to fly....to remember the person that I am.....and begin to be.
Many syncronicities today....not the least of which, my youngest daughter (she's almost 17) had a really bad day at school ......God does keep giving me lessons to practice on until I am able to learn it by heart.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
New Art and a Christmas Bazaar
I've been busy getting ready for a Christmas Market Place and Bazaar. I've made Reiki infused Scrabble tile necklaces and bracelets.... Prints from my art that is in The Vision Board ... book by Joyce Schwarz......and original mixed media pieces. My art room, dining room, and kitchen all look like a storm has passed through. What a lot of mess. A fun mess, but a mess none the less.
I realize what a great blessing it is to be able to have time
to do all these things that I love to do. To be able to lose
myself in art is such a great thing. ... It feeds my spirit and
blesses my soul....It keeps me centered and it lets me
fly.......What a divine gift art is.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Saturday, October 11, 2008
A Must Read
If you get a chance, please read this book and let me know what you think. Wow. Very moving.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
busy, busy, and new website and blog!
I have been away for a few days, haven't I. I had a hijacker on my computer....it's called the cometcurser....well, I almost did start cursing....after days of trying to get things back to normal (btw no such hope) I had to get a new computer. That's the short version...it's much cleaner than the long version. ha
Also, I have a website up and running (kindof)..... http://www.sagesevenvisions.com and a new blog... www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com there's a fun contest at the blog, so please check it out.
Tonight and tomorrow I am going to visit everyone's blog...I've missed hearing your stories and seeing your art. Really and truly..............
Please come and check out the contest..... www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com Invite your friends and neighbors and everyone....It's my first contest and I would love it to be fun fun fun!
Also, I have a website up and running (kindof)..... http://www.sagesevenvisions.com and a new blog... www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com there's a fun contest at the blog, so please check it out.
Tonight and tomorrow I am going to visit everyone's blog...I've missed hearing your stories and seeing your art. Really and truly..............
Please come and check out the contest..... www.sagesevenvisions.blogspot.com Invite your friends and neighbors and everyone....It's my first contest and I would love it to be fun fun fun!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
The Vision Board: The Secret to an Extraordinary Life
I have great news that I need to share.....One of my pieces of black and white art is going to be in The Vision Board: The Secret to an Extraordinary Life!!!!! This is such a huge deal for me....and for you all too. The book is absolutely awesome. There is info on how to do vision boards, as well as art and vision boards from people all over the world....talking about gratitude, vision, abundance....
Go to http://www.ihaveavision.org/ or to http://www.visionboard.info/ and take a look.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Do you see what I see......
Even though they don't do it justice...........
I just had to share these photos!
God's little surprises are everywhere.
It was 11 am on a late summer day, the sky was slightly overcast, the
land was thirsty from lack of water, and what do I see? One hundred sparkling
diamonds among the dark green juniper. Each diamond reflecting the lights
and colors from all around my yard. Each shape unique, each size different, each
holding tiny secrets, like crystal balls.
What do you see??.....when you see a tiny spider web low on the ground...amongst the
shrubs, covered in morning dew.....even though it was late in the morning and all
the dew had long disappeared? A tiny miracle.....a gift that grabs you and slows you
down.....a sign of fairies and magic.......proof that God is everywhere.
Blessings!
Bluebird of Happiness
www.funkyartqueen.blogspot.com hosted a "10 tiny things" contest a little while ago and my prize came today. What a wonderful surprise....inside a little white box, a little blue bird of happiness was making its nest....a little blue bird to make me laugh and giggle.....a little bluebird to remind me to lighten up so I can fly. Thank you so much, Lesley. (Visit Lesley's blog......www.funkyartqueen.blogspot.com She has lots of fun, funky, and colorful art over there.....you'll be glad you did.)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
Tuesday Ten Tiny Things Challenge - hosted by Funky Art Queen
My ten tiny things include a pair of milk glass hands given to me by a great aunt. Inside the hands are symbols of all the little blessings that happen everyday....things that we can see when we slow down enough .......to see that everything and everybody creates all the time, whether we witness it or not....creation is happening.....to see that stars are shining brightly everywhere......from the heavens, from the sea, from the flowers........to see that love is meant to be shared and that the more love you give away the richer life is for everyone....to see how healing is a matter of using our own intuition and energy (and medicine if needed) to take care of ourselves.....and to see the beauty in all things, no matter how large or how small they may be....and most importantly to see that God's blessings are everywhere.....all we need to do is ask and we shall receive.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Dreamboard August
Quite a bit of my board this month is comprised of words. Words are always so important, so strong to me. I feel the need to take better care of myself and think more about being healthy and energetic and making good food choices. Also, I find myself feeling more and more spiritually connected and wanting more....see the picture of "me" holding a giant plug and wanting to plug it into the earth and spirit. ... More living in the moment..... More confidence.... More money. ... More art. .... As always, pictures of babies and little girls having fun run throughout the board.....and there is a huge "I believe" and "live in the moment" and "magic maker". Words to believe as well as ponder.The real kicker is ...tonight we ordered Chinese and my fortune was....You will soon find more adventure in life. Synchronistic, I think.
Kindness
watercolor on paper
Have a wonderful and blessed weekend!!!
and
"Remember there's no such thing as a small act of kindness.
Every act creates a ripple with no logical end."
Scott Adams
Friday Fill-Ins #85
1. The last meal I had at a restaurant was a delicious Stir Fry Chicken and a decadent Chocolate Mocha ice cream pie for dessert... both of which I split while having a great conversation with my daughter. yum!
2. Seeing the kitties and puppies up for adoption at Pet Co and knowing that someone did not take care of their pets (and have them fixed)....that is something that I intensely dislike. I want to take all those kittens and puppies home with me.
3. The full moon is fun to picnic under, charge crystals with, and swim naked during.
4."With the grace of God" is one of my favorite expressions.
5. Sometimes it's best to just get away from it all and just veg out for a while.
6. Momma Mia is the best movie I've seen so far this year!
7. And as for this weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to curling up in a good, soft chair with a great book, tomorrow my plans include surprising my parents with a 50th anniversary party and Sunday, I want to surround myself with all my art supplies and create.
2. Seeing the kitties and puppies up for adoption at Pet Co and knowing that someone did not take care of their pets (and have them fixed)....that is something that I intensely dislike. I want to take all those kittens and puppies home with me.
3. The full moon is fun to picnic under, charge crystals with, and swim naked during.
4."With the grace of God" is one of my favorite expressions.
5. Sometimes it's best to just get away from it all and just veg out for a while.
6. Momma Mia is the best movie I've seen so far this year!
7. And as for this weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to curling up in a good, soft chair with a great book, tomorrow my plans include surprising my parents with a 50th anniversary party and Sunday, I want to surround myself with all my art supplies and create.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
New York City - shows and shopping
Ashley and I had a fast and furious trip to New York. Three days of shows and shopping...we never made it out of Times Square.....Saw Wicked, Young Frankenstein, and Legally Blonde....wonderful musicals!! Shopped lots, window shopped lots, had henna applied to our hands, ate tons of good food...had a blast. Ashley has worked all summer and it was a great break before school starts on Monday. It is such fun to have only one girl at a time on a trip...we get to know each other better, and make our own fun memories, don't get me wrong...trips with the whole family, David and all three girls are wonderful, but the ones that I take just with one at a time are extra special to me. Time to talk and see what wonderful women they are growing up to be. One on one..... Time to laugh...time to remember...time to see each other in new ways.... time to know how truly blessed I am. I have 3 wonderful girls and although I miss them being babies, I am awed and amazed at what wonderful people they are, how intelligent, how healthy, how loving, how beautiful, how strong.....and I am thankful that God allowed me to be their mom.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Listen for the Music
Are you listening? Can you hear it? The music of your soul is calling to you....stop and listen....The Divine is calling to you....Sing along, dance along.....fly.... it's all up to you......Stop, be still, listen........it's time.........Blessings to all.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Friday Fill-Ins #83
1. If I could travel back in time, I'd go to visit Picasso, Monet, and other amazing artists.
2. Give me quiet moments and meditations or give me children giggling.
3. I am listening to my inner child at the moment, and she wants to play.
4. Somewhere, someone is thinking that they'd like to run away and join a circus.
5. I'll always be grateful for my family, my life, and God's love.
6. My idea of a good time includes being outside, with crystal blue skies, nature trails, a variety of food, and good friends.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to releasing the past, tomorrow my plans include cleaning up my home, and Sunday, I want everyone to come home safely, get a good nights sleep, and wake up the next morning to some new adventures.
2. Give me quiet moments and meditations or give me children giggling.
3. I am listening to my inner child at the moment, and she wants to play.
4. Somewhere, someone is thinking that they'd like to run away and join a circus.
5. I'll always be grateful for my family, my life, and God's love.
6. My idea of a good time includes being outside, with crystal blue skies, nature trails, a variety of food, and good friends.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to releasing the past, tomorrow my plans include cleaning up my home, and Sunday, I want everyone to come home safely, get a good nights sleep, and wake up the next morning to some new adventures.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Trapeze - Ballet in the Air
These are 2 of my babies...........I went to visit them last night to see them flying high on the trapeze....and....it was awesome..............
It was like watching ballet...in the air.......almost heavenly.....the light in the warehouse studio was coming in in such a way that they looked like they were swinging on sunbeams.
Renaissance women.......................Friday, July 11, 2008
Daydreaming about Hawaii
Tonight I'm wishing for a month in Hawaii.........One month with no tv, no phone, no cell phones, and nothing that has to be done........... One month of quiet pleasures, warm sand, and bright blue skies......... One month to snorkel, to float on the water, to lay in a hammock and feel the ocean breeze...........One month with no problems, no worries, no stress............One month to eat fresh pineapple, fresh fish, but no poi........One month to play, to create, to center, to balance, to love.
One day hopefully....but,
this will have to do for now...beautiful pictures that I took on our vacation to Hawaii 5 years ago. Wow, what a wonderful place. Beautiful...just beautiful.
Friday Fill-Ins #80
http://fridayfillins.blogspot.com/ #80
1. Oh, I can't wait until I have a day just to do nothing.
2. Arizona Green Tea is the first thing I see when I open my refrigerator.
3. I never leave home without my keys and my purse.
4. If I were a condiment, I would be salsa, because salsa is colorful and full of yummy stuff.
5. Piling dirty dishes on the counter instead of putting them in the dishwasher is really high up on my list of pet peeves.
6. The last thing I thought of before I went to bed was blessings and peace.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to talking to my sister, tomorrow my plans include driving 4 hours to Asheville to babysit my 3 year old niece, and Sunday, I want to drive safely home, pick up Shelby, and have a great nights sleep.
1. Oh, I can't wait until I have a day just to do nothing.
2. Arizona Green Tea is the first thing I see when I open my refrigerator.
3. I never leave home without my keys and my purse.
4. If I were a condiment, I would be salsa, because salsa is colorful and full of yummy stuff.
5. Piling dirty dishes on the counter instead of putting them in the dishwasher is really high up on my list of pet peeves.
6. The last thing I thought of before I went to bed was blessings and peace.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to talking to my sister, tomorrow my plans include driving 4 hours to Asheville to babysit my 3 year old niece, and Sunday, I want to drive safely home, pick up Shelby, and have a great nights sleep.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Monday, July 7, 2008
Healing Spirit Art Dolls
I've been making Healing Spirit Art Dolls today.
"Joy" is infused with Reiki that sends energy and healing love to your Solar Plexus Chakra....your creativity center....in her pouch she carries a carnelian gemstone....and next to her heart, she has a rose quartz....
"Crystal" is infused with love and healing Reiki energy that focuses on your Heart Chakra. She will help you open your heart center and allow love to flow through. In her pouch, she brings a piece of rose quartz for you to meditate with.
"Ti" will help you work with your Base Chakra, as she is infused with Reiki love and healing for this chakra. She will help you as you learn to establish healthy strong roots on which to grow. She comes with a piece of hemetite that has been cleansed by smudging and is charged with healing and strength.........................................................Each Healing Spirit Art Doll and their gemstone has been cleansed by smudging, dedicated to be used only with loving energies, and infused with Reiki.
................................................................................
I have made Healing Spirit Art Dolls for friends, but until now I have never sold them. I'm going to list them on etsy tomorrow ....I believe that they are supposed to go to their forever homes with friends that I have yet to meet.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Thursday, July 3, 2008
High Flying and Skydiving
Para sailing is such fun....I can't wait to go again...but until then, I can check it off my "been there; done that" list. For my birthday in 2006, I went skydiving...also such a rush, such a thrill....and to think that only a few years ago, I was completely terrified of heights. I think Eleanor Roosevelt was so right when she said to do one thing everyday that scares you.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Beach Shadows
The beach was lovely last week and all five of us made it over safely...it was wonderful to just be together... The days were beautiful...the skies were that amazing, clear blue that makes everything seem almost surreal.....the sand...so hot...but, near the water so much fun to sink my toes into. We ate a lot of great seafood...Did all the beachy stuff....and we all went para sailing. Fun...fun....fun....I love to be up high in the sky...flying....it's magical... (I'll put up a picture as soon as I can find the cd-r.) As usual I took tons of pictures (thanks to digital photography)...and some people gave us a couple of odd looks when I started taking these pictures...my girls shadows.....well, I think that they are awesome......... (they still need to be cropped...)
Beach shadows....our shadow selves......shadows, shadows, shadows.....leads me to think about how well do we know the people we love and really how well do we know ourselves? It seems to be a lifelong adventure...this learning.....It's challenging sometimes and joyful the next. How far deep inside can we go...how about how far outside can we reach? Sometimes, everything is smooth and calm like a gently flowing river...... Other times the whole of life seems discombobulated 
Beach shadows....our shadow selves......shadows, shadows, shadows.....leads me to think about how well do we know the people we love and really how well do we know ourselves? It seems to be a lifelong adventure...this learning.....It's challenging sometimes and joyful the next. How far deep inside can we go...how about how far outside can we reach? Sometimes, everything is smooth and calm like a gently flowing river...... Other times the whole of life seems discombobulated 
...one huge jigsaw puzzle and I'm missing a piece.......Sometimes. when it seems like I'm saying the same things over and over....and either I'm not projecting it right... or no one is listening...........that's when I tell myself that buried deep within it all there is this great lesson to be had....I'd just really like to have that mysterious key.....now.
(Maybe it's patience that I need to learn.)
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Time Shifter
Time Shifter is a mixed media painting that I have been working on. It's a different look than my other pictures, but I think it works. I would love to know how others feel about it. Thank you (in advance) for your input. (acrylic paint, inks, markers and pencil on canvas board)
Photo Friday - Movement
These are my photos for Photo Friday - movement. Seems like my family is always (and has always been) moving.
Inspire Me Thursday - Finding the Art in the Everyday
Beauty and Art are Everywhere, Everyday.....especially if you have eyes that really see. The small, seemingly insignificant ones are especially awesome.....so remember to slow down, and look around you, you may be surprised at all the wonders that you will see.
Creative Catalyst - The one life lesson that I want to teach my children
Creative Catalyst #14
I want my girls to learn to see God in everything…. In every flower, in every storm, in every smile, and in every move that they make. They should know that God is everywhere…all the time. I encourage them to speak to him constantly as they go about their day……in all times and in all ways…in fun, in sorrow, in joy, in thanks, and in need. It’s such a great lesson to learn and hold onto the fact that God made each one of them perfect… perfect in every way. And that no matter what happens in their world, that they are beautiful, and special, and unique, and creative, and loved. God did this for them. God did this for each of us. (Why is it so hard to remember?) In learning these things, it is my hope that they will be happy, self confident women who are caring and loving and nonjudgmental. That they will make the best of what they are offered, that they will be healthy and centered, that they will love with all their hearts, and that they will make the world a better place. In learning and remembering this lesson, the light of love will shine through their hearts and surround them…. the light of love will shine through them and reach out to others…..and they will know, really know, that God will forever hold them safe in his hands.
I want my girls to learn to see God in everything…. In every flower, in every storm, in every smile, and in every move that they make. They should know that God is everywhere…all the time. I encourage them to speak to him constantly as they go about their day……in all times and in all ways…in fun, in sorrow, in joy, in thanks, and in need. It’s such a great lesson to learn and hold onto the fact that God made each one of them perfect… perfect in every way. And that no matter what happens in their world, that they are beautiful, and special, and unique, and creative, and loved. God did this for them. God did this for each of us. (Why is it so hard to remember?) In learning these things, it is my hope that they will be happy, self confident women who are caring and loving and nonjudgmental. That they will make the best of what they are offered, that they will be healthy and centered, that they will love with all their hearts, and that they will make the world a better place. In learning and remembering this lesson, the light of love will shine through their hearts and surround them…. the light of love will shine through them and reach out to others…..and they will know, really know, that God will forever hold them safe in his hands.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
My earliest memory
Creative Catalyst 11 - What's your earliest memory?
When I was about 3 years old, we lived on an Air Force Base in Symrna, Tennessee. I remember my dad coming home in the evenings....the blue black sky of late evening creating a halo around his head....the dark blue officer uniform, the cap....touched by the light of the inside of the house.... made the medals shine. In my mind...the picture is very vivid...not moving...still...a moment paused in time. Just Dad, his uniform. and the blue black night.
When I was about 3 years old, we lived on an Air Force Base in Symrna, Tennessee. I remember my dad coming home in the evenings....the blue black sky of late evening creating a halo around his head....the dark blue officer uniform, the cap....touched by the light of the inside of the house.... made the medals shine. In my mind...the picture is very vivid...not moving...still...a moment paused in time. Just Dad, his uniform. and the blue black night.
Inspire Me Thursday - Whimsy - for May 22
A Poem for Inspire Me Thursday - Whimsy -
mashed potato islands
surrounded by gravy lakes
and dotted by green pea trees
mixed up together
in a twirly, swirly concoction
ready to be eaten
in one gigantic bite
such is life
mashed potato islands
surrounded by gravy lakes
and dotted by green pea trees
mixed up together
in a twirly, swirly concoction
ready to be eaten
in one gigantic bite
such is life
Monday, May 19, 2008
Inspire Me Thursday for May 15 - Crayons
It was so much fun playing with good old Crayola crayons again. The memories that they bring back...wow....so, I did a landscape of the mountains around Asheville, NC....where I grew up. Thanks for such a great prompt.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Happy 26th Anniversary
Yesterday, May 15, was my 26th wedding anniversary. Twenty six years ago, at the age of 21 years and 6 months, I got married. It was a beautiful day and a beautiful wedding. I remember how he looked at me as I was walking down the aisle…. a mixture of sheer panic and deep love….then the vows, a little bit of dancing and a little bit of rain….. a new life starts.
Thinking about this, I see the loving, playful, intimate times, but I also see the challenging times. The births of our 3 daughters, each with their own special entrances into the world, each one completely different and yet the same…… and the total awareness of the preciousness of life. …only seemed to make us pull even closer together. The "new" mommy and daddy years….fun, amazing, sometimes tiring and overwhelming, we made it through those years, only to see them starting out as adults, and yet always our babies. We managed to make it through the lonely, painful, hurtful years of my depression…somehow. I don’t know how we stayed together, but we made it through. But life was always good, even the bad days….but now it’s so much better. We love each other…I think we love each other more, so much more now than we did at the beginning. His laugh, his touch, laying in his arms, snuggling on the sofa, holding hands, everything….He is my home, my safety net, my biggest advocate, and my greatest supporter. Our girls tease us about being so affectionate...so much in love..….but they know that this kind of love is hard to find. It takes many prayers, many dates, and some syncronicity of events for this to happen. It is a gift from God….and I thank God everyday for this gift.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Inspire Me Thursday - Doors
Doors - entrances into the unknown
This is my post for Inspire Me Thursday. (Thurs. May 8)
Doors.....
These pictures were taken in St. Andrews, Scotland and in Oxford, England.
I have always been fascinated by doors...especially old doors....or old entrance ways...
They seem to beckon to magical, forgotten places.... Calling me to exciting adventures,
mystical experiences, and fanciful journeys. They are like presents wrapped in glittering paper, waiting anxiously to be opened and explored.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Beautiful Strawberries
Two of my most favorite times in Spring are ....... when the beautiful daffodils spring forth from the deep sleep of winter and surprise us with the vibrant yellows and oranges that suggest sunny and warmer days ahead...... and ..... Strawberry season. Yes, I just picked up a crate of fragrant, sweet, bright red strawberries from a local farmer. Oh my goodness. They are so incredibly good. Time to start making strawberry jam, and strawberry shortcake, and strawberry pancakes, and the list goes on.....................my kitchen is going to smell awesome. I took this picture, trying to capture the experience, but until our computers also allow scent to stream forth, I guess just a picture will have to do. Wouldn't it be cool if we had wonkavision...you know, from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I could just send the strawberries out and you could reach into your computer and sample some for yourself.
Friday, May 2, 2008
What A Cute Little Guy
Saturday, this little guy sat on under the seat of a chair on our patio for about an hour. ....looking forlorn and lost.....and possibly a little grouchy. I started getting concerned about him and about the fact that Charlie (my puppy) couldn't get into the backyard to run off some steam. So, I called around. Finally, the nice lady at the Wild Bird Center....after getting a "look" at him through my eyes....suggested I think of him as a teenager. You know, the one who is thinking....."Hey, I'm big enough to do whatever I want to....so, I think I'm gonna fly right out of here." The only problem was that he didn't take into account the fact his mom kept telling him that he should take it easy and wait a while before spreading his wings. So, he didn't get very far. The nice lady suggested that I grab a drink and sit back and watch him through a window....that his mom and dad were probably very close by and were out looking for him. And, sure enough, within 10 minutes, a very brave mom, came looking for her baby, and she brought some sustenance...a nice, big, wiggly worm. She fed the worm to her baby, hopped away and came back two more times. Each time bringing a small insect to the hungry little "teenager". Well, that was about the time that I had to go and take my teenager to her weekend job. So, I had to leave......and by the time I returned that little guy was nowhere to be found.....BUT...that was not the end of the story. On Wednesday, after cleaning my labyrinth, I returned to the patio, and guess who was waiting there for me.... That same, cute, little, guy....a tiny bit older, and less downy looking feathers, but it was him. He was hopping back and forth on the doorstep, flying up into the windows on the door....trying his best to get in. I decided to sneak inside the house and watch. Guess who came to find her little one....yes, the mommy came back. I don't know how, but she got him going and they left together. I believe I saw the daddy in the trees beyond the fence. He probably was singing words of encouragement the whole time...you know how those dads are.Thursday, April 24, 2008
Inspire Me Thursday - Envelope
Hopefully better late than never.
Here is my acrostic poem about envelope art.
Eclectic
Narrative
Vehicle.
Exposing
Lyric
Opportunities.
Panoramic
Expectations.
Here is my acrostic poem about envelope art.
Eclectic
Narrative
Vehicle.
Exposing
Lyric
Opportunities.
Panoramic
Expectations.
PhotoFriday - Cold
This is my post for Photo Friday - April 18 -Cold. Rocky Mount, VA. These kids were really cold when they came inside. Good thing that there was hot chocolate.Reiki Drum Class
The Reiki Drumming class was taught at the Infinite Light Healing Center at Peace Place on Jordan Road in Sedona, Arizona. Micheal, the instructor, is a great teacher (as well as the founder of Reiki healing drum sessions). I am amazed at what we learned in the 2 day class....and we had time to study, practice, share, and giggle...too much fun. I recommend that if you have never had a Reiki drum healing session, find someone in your area ......it feels amazing...and it works.
I spent a couple of extra days looking around Sedona and the surrounding area. It is such a beautiful place. .... Brilliant red rock formations and glorious blue skies....it took my breath away.
On Monday night, we went to the Chapel of the Holy Cross and attended a Taize service. The energy and love in that space was palpable. The Taize chants seemed so familiar. It was just a wow moment. Now that I'm home again, I'm gonna break out the watercolors and pastels and start painting...Sedona was inspiring and I got some really good pictures.....so, art room....here I come.
I spent a couple of extra days looking around Sedona and the surrounding area. It is such a beautiful place. .... Brilliant red rock formations and glorious blue skies....it took my breath away.
On Monday night, we went to the Chapel of the Holy Cross and attended a Taize service. The energy and love in that space was palpable. The Taize chants seemed so familiar. It was just a wow moment. Now that I'm home again, I'm gonna break out the watercolors and pastels and start painting...Sedona was inspiring and I got some really good pictures.....so, art room....here I come.
I'm Back.......
I've been in Arizona taking a Reiki drumming class. It was awesome. Please check back this afternoon for pictures and a new blog post.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Far From Home - Photo Friday
When I went to Guatemala on a mission trip, it seemed so, so, so far away from home. It was a wonderful experience. This is one of my very favorite pictures from then.
Labyrinth and Peace...Inspire Me Thursday
The labyrinth that we built in our backyard is what
I think of when I think of peace.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Soldered Charms
These are some of my new soldered charms. I have posted a few
on www.AmberCoffey.etsy.com and will be posting more tomorrow.
I made 26; each has a copy of either a photo from my travels or a copy of my original artwork
. These pictures are printed on vellum for a nice translucent quality. No two charms are the same. Let me know what you think.
I've also been cleaning up this house of mine...you would think that it would stay clean, but every time I get it straightened up, I find a new project to start, or the girls are home and are "making themselves at home" if you know what I mean, and I do actually have to make dinner sometimes, which I wouldn't mind...esp if someone else would clean up after. So, yes, we eat out a bit. And then there's the laundry....yuck. So, enough about that. I do what I can and then......back to art!
I am really into art journaling and I love to help others find this wonderful emotional outlet...It is amazing looking back at old journals to see where I have come from...My friends who think that they "can't" do art journaling, because they aren't "creative", have been scarred by others judging what they do and.. that is
a bunch of nonsense...Everyone is born Creative. It's our birthright. I think, an easy way into becoming creative in your own eyes is to start art journaling. I mean it's really easy to open a magazine, find pictures and cut and paste. Then, little by little, maybe some paint, or crayons, or markers. Maybe a little writing about how the day went. How you feel. What's going on...your grocery list. Anything goes. No rules. Then all of a sudden, without warning it becomes fun to them. They look forward to those few minutes
each day to relax and "make a little art". It is so rewarding. I have taught a few art journaling classes and it always surprises me how timid people are at first...looking at that blank page...but once they get going, they really get into it. A whole new world has opened up!! Another creative soul unleashed!
on www.AmberCoffey.etsy.com and will be posting more tomorrow.
I made 26; each has a copy of either a photo from my travels or a copy of my original artwork
. These pictures are printed on vellum for a nice translucent quality. No two charms are the same. Let me know what you think. I've also been cleaning up this house of mine...you would think that it would stay clean, but every time I get it straightened up, I find a new project to start, or the girls are home and are "making themselves at home" if you know what I mean, and I do actually have to make dinner sometimes, which I wouldn't mind...esp if someone else would clean up after. So, yes, we eat out a bit. And then there's the laundry....yuck. So, enough about that. I do what I can and then......back to art!
I am really into art journaling and I love to help others find this wonderful emotional outlet...It is amazing looking back at old journals to see where I have come from...My friends who think that they "can't" do art journaling, because they aren't "creative", have been scarred by others judging what they do and.. that is
a bunch of nonsense...Everyone is born Creative. It's our birthright. I think, an easy way into becoming creative in your own eyes is to start art journaling. I mean it's really easy to open a magazine, find pictures and cut and paste. Then, little by little, maybe some paint, or crayons, or markers. Maybe a little writing about how the day went. How you feel. What's going on...your grocery list. Anything goes. No rules. Then all of a sudden, without warning it becomes fun to them. They look forward to those few minutes
each day to relax and "make a little art". It is so rewarding. I have taught a few art journaling classes and it always surprises me how timid people are at first...looking at that blank page...but once they get going, they really get into it. A whole new world has opened up!! Another creative soul unleashed!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Reiki Infused Art
Reiki and Art...........
I have been painting and creating collages with the intention that
Reiki's unconditional love and healing energies will infuse each piece as I
work. Reiki and art actually have a lot in common. Beautiful art is made in a state of relaxed meditation. Both activities are rich, so rich, in spirit. As it
is, each stroke of the brush or pen is channeling blessings into the artwork. Each
paper that is collaged and each embellishment that is placed is working toward a common purpose. It is possible to place specific affirmations and/or intentions into each piece of art. This practice has dramatically increased my ability to focus and channel Reiki. I am grateful and blessed for each piece that
I am able to work on. I hope others are blessed by this art.
I have been painting and creating collages with the intention that Reiki's unconditional love and healing energies will infuse each piece as I
work. Reiki and art actually have a lot in common. Beautiful art is made in a state of relaxed meditation. Both activities are rich, so rich, in spirit. As it
is, each stroke of the brush or pen is channeling blessings into the artwork. Eachpaper that is collaged and each embellishment that is placed is working toward a common purpose. It is possible to place specific affirmations and/or intentions into each piece of art. This practice has dramatically increased my ability to focus and channel Reiki. I am grateful and blessed for each piece that
I am able to work on. I hope others are blessed by this art.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Inspire Me Thursday for March 27, 2008
Inspire Me Thursday...Happy 2nd birthday.
Here is my mixed media sculpture honoring the number 2. It's made out of a wire armature, covered in plaster, mounted on a wooden base. It is painted and tissue papered and embellished. These are so much fun to make!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Fun New Art
I've used Zentangle idea and gone further and added images first and then the embellishments. I've been doing this stuff for years, but the Zentangle idea helped me see this as something more than just doodles.
These are so much fun to work on. I'm matting them with bright red, blue or purple on top of black. They are looking really great. I hope to have a finished piece for Whimsical Wednesday!
On some of the pictures, I am doing light watercolor washes. I can't wait to get them all put together. These are just works in progress. I just wanted to share, because they are such fun.
Let me know what you think. Thanks for looking!
These are so much fun to work on. I'm matting them with bright red, blue or purple on top of black. They are looking really great. I hope to have a finished piece for Whimsical Wednesday!
On some of the pictures, I am doing light watercolor washes. I can't wait to get them all put together. These are just works in progress. I just wanted to share, because they are such fun.
Let me know what you think. Thanks for looking!
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