Special note- I will be returning in January 2013 on a weekly basis.
For now I have some thoughts on the man of the season....Santa Claus.
When I was a second grader, the weekly Show and Tell was a big deal for me. It was one of the few times I loved going to school. It was a time for me to get up and talk. (I've always loved to talk and tell stories.) I remember the Show and Tell after the Christmas Holiday break, I brought the beautiful cat stuff toy I had received from Santa that year. I remember proudly stating that I had gotten the toy from Santa. I remember hearing giggles from my class mates. I was sort of an snarky, outspoken child, so I stopped my story in order to confront the hecklers. One of my classmates loudly proclaimed there was no Santa, and that presents come from your parents not Santa. I disagreed with him. The teacher suggested I take my seat. I still to this day disagree with that kid and anyone else who says there is no Santa.
I believe in Santa. I know he exists. For me Santa is all about love, generosity, magic, thinking of others, and my big one- creativity to make the world better. For me, not to believe in Santa's existence means, what he represents doesn't exist. Looking at the news in our world, this season, it may seem like we are in need of Santa and what he represents more than ever. So, let's all be still in the moment and embrace Santa, and who knows...you might even see or hear him.
Wishing you all the magic and love of this season now and always.
See you all back here in 2013 for the happiest, most creativity and positive year in all of our lives!
Until then...create to feel great!
P.S. I've been creating like a whirl wind...I hope you have been as well.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Campaign Announcement!
This is when I usually embark on the next year of the Campaign. Dig in and start creating my projects of the week. Move forward with the same old same old. Well...I'm not. I've been giving my next step here a ton of thought. One thing this Campaign has done for me over the last 3 years is to shift me into a much more thoughtful person. I'm not so willing to just jump at the first thing that comes along. Get down the road and say "what the hell did I just do?" Then get frustrated and angry at every thing and every one. So, I think a bit more. In that spirit, I'm going to take until the end of 2012 to think about how to proceed into year 4. Please know I will be back in 2013 and I'm not giving up. There still is plenty of work to do and projects to create!
I don't usually use this blog to get political, but I can't help to make a comment here. I my opinion, I feel that as a collective American public, we took a huge step towards a positive future. I don't care who you voted for in the election. I think the outcome is sending a message to the folks in power that we the people are done with the fighting and bickering. We want to get this mess cleaned up. So, let's get to work and do it.
I'm hopeful. I do see it as one step forward into a better tomorrow.
I hope I will see you all back here in the new year. I do have plans for some changes and taking a different approach with this blog. Some slight changes.
Have a great holiday season! And until we meet again...create to feel great!
I don't usually use this blog to get political, but I can't help to make a comment here. I my opinion, I feel that as a collective American public, we took a huge step towards a positive future. I don't care who you voted for in the election. I think the outcome is sending a message to the folks in power that we the people are done with the fighting and bickering. We want to get this mess cleaned up. So, let's get to work and do it.
I'm hopeful. I do see it as one step forward into a better tomorrow.
I hope I will see you all back here in the new year. I do have plans for some changes and taking a different approach with this blog. Some slight changes.
Have a great holiday season! And until we meet again...create to feel great!
Saturday, October 27, 2012
That's A Wrap!
Well, folks here we are. Year 3 of The Campaign For Creativity To Banish Negativity is now complete!
I sat down four times to write this post. I don't usually have any trouble writing a post. Today it is different.
I can't pin point what is happening. I consider myself a completion junkie. I love the sense of completing projects. I'll confess, I'm having a bit of trouble coming to this finish line. In the years since starting my little campaign, I've seen the most change in myself. I've accomplished much. Somethings I never thought would happen to me (all good) have happened. I'm constantly learning how powerful a positive mind-set can be. And how challenging it is to maintain that mind-set in a world that really resists supporting me, and I sometimes get the feeling that I would just give up and let negativity rule. Yet I hope.
Hope is the one thing that no one can take away from another person. I really believe that.
I also know that NO ONE can take away my positive mind-set, unless I hand it to them. Allow myself to walk down the dark road of negativity into nowhere.
I also know that creativity born and expressed out of a desire to give love as a gift is a huge force for change. So powerful that we are often so scared of it's beauty that we turn away when all we have to do is embrace it and let it flow within us.
We can not and should not deny our birth right to be creativily expressive people. Discovering those gifts we have is the greatest delight this life has to offer us.
It is now a time to dance, celebrate, create in love and joy.
In closing this year, I once again question. What's next? Do I have another year of Campaigning in me? If I do. What will next year's campaign look like? Are the folks who read this (thank you all) tried of hearing my noise?
So, questions. I will take the next week off. Think about my next step. I do know this. The creating won't stop not me and I hope not for you.
For the folks who read this blog either once in a while or all the time. Thank you. I know you are out there supporting me and cheering me to keep going. (I can even hear the cow bells and whoops in the back ground as I write this.)
I have one wish for everyone. That you all find that place inside you that will guide you to create the master piece that you call your life. That the masterpiece is filled with all the love and joy you want plus a whole lot more. And you boldly share the masterpiece that is you with the rest of the world. That is my wish.
May you always create to feel great!
52 projects complete! 0
This week's project is a massage oil carrier. For a good friend who just completed massage training school.
I hope she doesn't read this until later next week. But if she does...surprise! I'm proud of you!
I sat down four times to write this post. I don't usually have any trouble writing a post. Today it is different.
I can't pin point what is happening. I consider myself a completion junkie. I love the sense of completing projects. I'll confess, I'm having a bit of trouble coming to this finish line. In the years since starting my little campaign, I've seen the most change in myself. I've accomplished much. Somethings I never thought would happen to me (all good) have happened. I'm constantly learning how powerful a positive mind-set can be. And how challenging it is to maintain that mind-set in a world that really resists supporting me, and I sometimes get the feeling that I would just give up and let negativity rule. Yet I hope.
Hope is the one thing that no one can take away from another person. I really believe that.
I also know that NO ONE can take away my positive mind-set, unless I hand it to them. Allow myself to walk down the dark road of negativity into nowhere.
I also know that creativity born and expressed out of a desire to give love as a gift is a huge force for change. So powerful that we are often so scared of it's beauty that we turn away when all we have to do is embrace it and let it flow within us.
We can not and should not deny our birth right to be creativily expressive people. Discovering those gifts we have is the greatest delight this life has to offer us.
It is now a time to dance, celebrate, create in love and joy.
In closing this year, I once again question. What's next? Do I have another year of Campaigning in me? If I do. What will next year's campaign look like? Are the folks who read this (thank you all) tried of hearing my noise?
So, questions. I will take the next week off. Think about my next step. I do know this. The creating won't stop not me and I hope not for you.
For the folks who read this blog either once in a while or all the time. Thank you. I know you are out there supporting me and cheering me to keep going. (I can even hear the cow bells and whoops in the back ground as I write this.)
I have one wish for everyone. That you all find that place inside you that will guide you to create the master piece that you call your life. That the masterpiece is filled with all the love and joy you want plus a whole lot more. And you boldly share the masterpiece that is you with the rest of the world. That is my wish.
May you always create to feel great!
52 projects complete! 0
This week's project is a massage oil carrier. For a good friend who just completed massage training school.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Let It All Flow
"Going against the grain may result in not producing the desired effect."~ From a can of floor sealer
This week for me was a lesson in going with the flow and going with the grain to achieve my desired effect in my life. I heard stories for loved ones about how they received messages from the universe to take a turn in their lives, not to fight what they were hearing but to go with the flow. The results, for them, so far have been amazing. Sometimes fight up stream to get what we want or to get to a new place in our lives isn't going to get us there. To flow with the stream, whatever it maybe, and to rejoice in the moment at where we are allows us to know if we are on our path and helps us produce the desired effect in our lives.
Now I'm not saying to not stand up for what is right or to not think outside the box. I'm saying listen to what you are hearing around you, in your heart and soul, and don't fight with what you are hearing. Beiug in the flow or going with the grain for whatever it is in your life with produce the desire effect with ease.
Until next week...create to feel great.
51 projects complete! 1 more to go!
This week I tried my hand at painting watercolor cards. I took lessons off internet sites.
This week for me was a lesson in going with the flow and going with the grain to achieve my desired effect in my life. I heard stories for loved ones about how they received messages from the universe to take a turn in their lives, not to fight what they were hearing but to go with the flow. The results, for them, so far have been amazing. Sometimes fight up stream to get what we want or to get to a new place in our lives isn't going to get us there. To flow with the stream, whatever it maybe, and to rejoice in the moment at where we are allows us to know if we are on our path and helps us produce the desired effect in our lives.
Now I'm not saying to not stand up for what is right or to not think outside the box. I'm saying listen to what you are hearing around you, in your heart and soul, and don't fight with what you are hearing. Beiug in the flow or going with the grain for whatever it is in your life with produce the desire effect with ease.
Until next week...create to feel great.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Do It My Way
I discovered a couple of weeks ago that I've been knitting the "wrong way" for over 40 years. I've been poking around on how dos on the internet and in books to see if there is any one describing the way I knit. I'm yet to find it. My Granny once chided me for how I knit saying, "what monkey taught you to knit?" At the time I didn't think anything about it. I just kept on knitting my way for the next 40 years. Oh, well. I do a lot of things not the way most folks do them. I think I sometimes see the world very differently from the rest of the world. Oh, well. That's me. At turning 56 years old next week, I'm at the I don't really give a damn what folks think stage of my life. That's not to say I'm insensitive to others. I really strife to be aware in the world of others and their feelings. It's just that I don't care that I don't knit the way everyone else does. Or that I sing in stores as I shop, sometimes do a little jig. That I'm married to a man who is just as odd as I am. Or that I spend my days mostly with two cats and I talk to them like good old dear friends. There are a million other ways I might be viewed as weird. So be it. I'm embracing life my way. I'm not hurting myself or others so I'm going for it. And I'm feeling so good, real and honest about who I am that I'm not going to stop. Besides, I live in Portland, Oregon- one of the city's outcries is "Keep Portland Weird." Believe me I have a long way to go before I'm even begin to register on Portland's weird scale.
So, let me ask you all this....Are you living life your way?
Until next week...Create to fell great!
50 projects complete! (yes 50!) 2 to go! Finish line is in site!!!
This week's project is a neck warmer. The stitch is one I came up with on my own. Yes it is knitting.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
110%
"If you have zest and enthusiasm, you attract zest and enthusiasm. Life does give back in kind." ~ Norman Vincent Peale
I discovered the above quote a couple of weeks ago and thought that it is the believe that for me is what got me wanting to start this Campaign. I decided to use it this week, because I found myself engaged in several conversations about approaching our life's dreams with enthusiasm.
Folks who know me have commented that I go after anything I'm interested in with so much energy it is head spinning. Whereas, I get that observation, I sometimes think I talk a good game. I think there are areas hold back in and don't give my full "zest and enthusiasm". Then I wonder why I feel like at times I'm standing still and not moving forward towards what I say I want in my life. I've discovered this cycle of moving and then holding back and attempting to move some more, is not only crazy making it is cranky making. It sets me firmly on the negative path. By now, I know that is one path I do not want to be on or even close to, no matter how tempting it is.
I could use this insight as a club to beat myself up with, but I don't. It is just a realization of where I am and might be the best opportunity to stop, assess and move forward on a happy path. Along the way kicking up my "zest and enthusiasm" by reconnecting with what got me stated on this idea in the first place. I usually do this by checking in with myself and ask at what percentage I'm at right now? Then I work to figure out how to get up to 100% or 110%.
Something bright, positive and zesty is always a better choice for me than dull, negative, and bland. It may look like a simple choice but sometimes it is not.
What is one thing in your life you could do to create more zest and enthusiasm?
Until next week create to feel great!
49 projects complete! 3 (yes you read that right!) 3 to go!
This week's project...my newest craft love...little wallet purses. Soft little purses for times when I don't want to carry a bigger purse or wallet. Easy to whip up and uses up fabric scraps. Gotta love it!
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| A peek inside...pockets of cards and cash! |
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Settled Or Settling?
When I was growing up, my family moved a whole lot. Sometimes four to five times a year. It felt like we were always on the move. I'd watch the T.V. show Wagon Train and knew what those folks were going through...moving all the time. My mom hated it, even though she was the instigator of most of the moving. Her one wish was to be settled or to just get settled. Coming from all that movement, I'm grew into a fairly "settled" adult. I've been married close to 24 years. We lived in the same house for 17 years and in the same city for close to 30 years. I like it. It suits me. It has given me a base to grow and evolve as a person. I've been thinking a lot about the word settle. I think we can be settled any where we are. We can have calm, focus and peace of mind any where at any time we allow it.
Then there is settling. I think some times in my life I've settled for good enough or second best because I didn't want to be uncomfortable. My Grandma has a friend she use to say was in love with second best. The friend was happy with life's scraps. I think that is sad.
I think there is a real fine line between being settled and settling. Sometimes either one can cause unhappiness or great joy. So odd.
Again it goes back to what are we creating in our lives?
Is it time to break up with being in love with second best in order to create something first rate? I think being in the groove of creating something first rate is the best form of being settled.
Until next week create to feel great!
48 projects complete! 4 to go! (I can not believe it!) I hear cowbells ringing!
This week's project is an stuffed owl. To remind me to make wise decisions and he's fun!
Then there is settling. I think some times in my life I've settled for good enough or second best because I didn't want to be uncomfortable. My Grandma has a friend she use to say was in love with second best. The friend was happy with life's scraps. I think that is sad.
I think there is a real fine line between being settled and settling. Sometimes either one can cause unhappiness or great joy. So odd.
Again it goes back to what are we creating in our lives?
Is it time to break up with being in love with second best in order to create something first rate? I think being in the groove of creating something first rate is the best form of being settled.
Until next week create to feel great!
48 projects complete! 4 to go! (I can not believe it!) I hear cowbells ringing!This week's project is an stuffed owl. To remind me to make wise decisions and he's fun!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Fruits Of My Labors
"Be glad of life because it gives you the chance to love and work and to play and to look up at the stars."
~Henry Van Dyke
This is the last post of summer 2012. Probably, you are reading this on the first day of fall. So, how was summer 2012 for you? Mine was amazing, if I might brag a bit. Why you ask? Well, because I lived it fully.
All the crazy ups and downs. All the good times and bad times. All the excitement and fears. I live it all fully. Summer 2012 is one for my books, and I'm glad of it. I created every minute of it. (Yes, even the junk, and crap and stuff of it all.) I pushed and relaxed. I challenged myself. I discovered parts of me and my creativity I didn't know were there. I read, walked, cleaned, reorganized and I planted. I planted a raised bed garden. I planted seeds in myself. My gardens are doing great.
I'm raising a glass to summer 2012 and all it's glories. But most of all to me for living it fully, and to creating a great autumn!
How was your summer 2012? Is it time to create a great autumn? What would that look like for you?
Until next week create to feel great!
47 projects complete! 5 to go!
This week's project are the fruits of my labors in my garden. Tomatoes! Lovely abundant tomatoes!
I have an heirloom variety- Abe Lincoln. Cherry tomatoes and Roma/Plum tomatoes. All going into a sauce to be canned. So, far I've "put up" 7 pints of sauce. Canning has been my project this week to stay up with all my tomatoes! I've loved having my garden and next year I will expand the "lower 40". But for now canned tomatoes. As my Grandma would say..."We eat what we can. What we can't we can."
~Henry Van Dyke
This is the last post of summer 2012. Probably, you are reading this on the first day of fall. So, how was summer 2012 for you? Mine was amazing, if I might brag a bit. Why you ask? Well, because I lived it fully.All the crazy ups and downs. All the good times and bad times. All the excitement and fears. I live it all fully. Summer 2012 is one for my books, and I'm glad of it. I created every minute of it. (Yes, even the junk, and crap and stuff of it all.) I pushed and relaxed. I challenged myself. I discovered parts of me and my creativity I didn't know were there. I read, walked, cleaned, reorganized and I planted. I planted a raised bed garden. I planted seeds in myself. My gardens are doing great.
How was your summer 2012? Is it time to create a great autumn? What would that look like for you?
Until next week create to feel great!
47 projects complete! 5 to go!
This week's project are the fruits of my labors in my garden. Tomatoes! Lovely abundant tomatoes!
Saturday, September 15, 2012
To The Core
I have often heard that "the Core" is the base of everything. I recently discovered the value of having a strong core. In our bodies it means having strong back and ab muscles. Without that strength we have all sorts of aches and pains. We can't move as well or as fast. I do think that is important, because on an emotional and spiritual level it connects us to the flow of life. Our intuition. Our peace of mind. Our sense of purpose and who we are. When we are weak at our core, life is difficult. It is more than a challenge to pull our selves up and out of a funk. It is almost like we are rotting from the inside out. No fun. No joy.
How do we get a strong core. Physically, it is working those muscles out. Emotionally and spiritually it is also a work out. Learning to shift our mind set from negative to positive. Setting boundaries that honor who we are, and sticking to those boundaries. Standing up for who we are. Eliminating worries (because worry takes us out of the moment and 90% of what we worry about never happens. The other 10% we can deal with). Stop trying to control everyone and everything and stay in the moment. Whew! That's a work out! And like a work out, at first it might be a struggle to see the value in doing the work out. Yet if we keep at it consistently, we begin to see, feel and know the value. Soon we are strong at our core. Nothing can shake us. Creating and living a great life is really possible.
Are you ready to do a Core work out? Get yourself strong to the core?
Until next week...create to feel great.
46 projects complete! 6 to go (I can see the finish line in my sights!)
This week's project is a little crocheted lady bug. A Swap-Bot friends' grand daughter was in ill and in the hospital. I heard she loves lady bugs. So, I hope this brings her some cheer. It made me smile to make it.
How do we get a strong core. Physically, it is working those muscles out. Emotionally and spiritually it is also a work out. Learning to shift our mind set from negative to positive. Setting boundaries that honor who we are, and sticking to those boundaries. Standing up for who we are. Eliminating worries (because worry takes us out of the moment and 90% of what we worry about never happens. The other 10% we can deal with). Stop trying to control everyone and everything and stay in the moment. Whew! That's a work out! And like a work out, at first it might be a struggle to see the value in doing the work out. Yet if we keep at it consistently, we begin to see, feel and know the value. Soon we are strong at our core. Nothing can shake us. Creating and living a great life is really possible.
Are you ready to do a Core work out? Get yourself strong to the core?
46 projects complete! 6 to go (I can see the finish line in my sights!)
This week's project is a little crocheted lady bug. A Swap-Bot friends' grand daughter was in ill and in the hospital. I heard she loves lady bugs. So, I hope this brings her some cheer. It made me smile to make it.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Yeah But...
As summer begins to wane and we head into fall, I'm doing my annual home improvement dash to get 'er done. The pattern is the same, in the winter I dream of all the stuff I want to get done. June rolls around and that is still rainy and cold to do anything, but I gather supplies. July and August, something always comes up and gets in my way of starting. This year, I was focusing on Portland to Coast and nursing my back, which I had sprained my sacrum. So, September, my dear friend, here we are again. The list is still long and growing. The supplies sit waiting. The motivation is gone, baby gone. Yet, I love the completion and the feel of re-doing a room or taking care of my house. And frankly between you and me, it really is the only way I'll do a deep cleaning or any cleaning for that matter. With such a long list, where to start? I thought if I could get only one room done in the house which one? Two are on the A list. My dining room and the creation of my writing room. Broadside pointed out, I'd be happier if I worked on my writing room. I went into "yeah, buts..." If I do the dining room, we'll have it for the holidays. We can have people over to enjoy it. I'll do that room first then the writing room will be my treat for completing the dining room. Yeah but...
Broadside was quick to point out that if I did the writing room first and has a place to write, I would maybe get the writing done I've been wanting to focus on all year. Yeah but. He got tired of the yeah buts and walked out of the room, saying something like...you can yeah but all you want. Is that getting where you want to be? When did he a) get so smart and insightful? b) start listening to me when I coach? He asked a good question. Writing room it is!
It was my project of the week. It took me a week to pull this small little space together. And well worth it.
The room has always had good energy. It was once a kitchen, before we moved in to the house 17 years ago. A family of four once live in the upstairs, where Broadside, Gus, MickeyGrrrl and myself sprawl out. (the upstairs isn't that big. I don't know how those folks did it.) This room was a junk room for years. Now that it is re-done...I'm doing a different kind of cooking in it. I'm also now inspired to do the dining room...after some more writing! Sidebar...it is tough to admit it, but Broadside was right. The room makes me happy and I'm writing more and feeling good about it. Again, another simple shift. I love my house. I love my life and the people who are apart of my life. I'm also discovering that taking care of what I love is another source of joy. Whew. I think the re-do of this room was my final exam on that lesson. I'm feeling like I aced it.
Until next week...create to feel great.
45 projects complete 7 to go! Home stretch is coming into my sites!
Broadside was quick to point out that if I did the writing room first and has a place to write, I would maybe get the writing done I've been wanting to focus on all year. Yeah but. He got tired of the yeah buts and walked out of the room, saying something like...you can yeah but all you want. Is that getting where you want to be? When did he a) get so smart and insightful? b) start listening to me when I coach? He asked a good question. Writing room it is!
It was my project of the week. It took me a week to pull this small little space together. And well worth it.
The room has always had good energy. It was once a kitchen, before we moved in to the house 17 years ago. A family of four once live in the upstairs, where Broadside, Gus, MickeyGrrrl and myself sprawl out. (the upstairs isn't that big. I don't know how those folks did it.) This room was a junk room for years. Now that it is re-done...I'm doing a different kind of cooking in it. I'm also now inspired to do the dining room...after some more writing! Sidebar...it is tough to admit it, but Broadside was right. The room makes me happy and I'm writing more and feeling good about it. Again, another simple shift. I love my house. I love my life and the people who are apart of my life. I'm also discovering that taking care of what I love is another source of joy. Whew. I think the re-do of this room was my final exam on that lesson. I'm feeling like I aced it.
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| Before....Yuck. |
Until next week...create to feel great.
45 projects complete 7 to go! Home stretch is coming into my sites!
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| Much Better! My Purple Haze Heaven. Complete with floor cushion for MickeyGrrrl! |
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Hitting A Wall And Seeing A Million Stars
"To accomplish a great thing, we must not only act, but also dream:not only plan, but also believe."
~Anatole France
I can now say I walked to the Oregon Coast. I competed in The Mother Of All Relays. I knew it was going to challenge me. I had NO idea in what ways. More on that in a bit. I want to talk about my stats. I'm so proud of the fact that I took 4 minutes off my walking time. Averaging a 16.5 minute mile. Our team finished in 35 hours. I didn't know I had a competitive streak that ran so deep in me. It came out. Because I had injured my lower back in July, I didn't compete against others, I competed against myself. I really had to find that source in me that believed I could do this thing. And I did this thing.
I have a million stories etched in my mind and heart. I have thousands of lessons, I want to share the most important ones I took away, as they apply to life, at least my life. So, not in any order...
1) There are Guardian Angels. I met one from Australia who helped me pace myself, work out a shin splint and told me I could do this thing. All within the first two miles of my walking adventure.
2) Have a plan for the end. I had no idea the physical and emotional tole this event and prep of the event takes. Couple that with sitting in the hot sun for two hours and team mates wanting me to take care of their questions and concerns. I hit a wall. Not pretty, but we all survived. Having a plan for the end before leaving town would have helped.
3) When going after a great thing...have a good friend with you. One is the minimum. I was lucky to have one of my best friends with me. Made the world of difference.
4) I need more cowbell in my life. Every time a van with a cheering cowbell ringing team passed me, I knew I had to keep going. So, more cowbell.
5) Look up from time to time. Especially at night. I saw the most amazing star show while I was trying to get some sleep in the non-sleeping field.
6) Add some flare to what you are doing, and don't hold back. I had made gold lame visors, yet I saw folks being so creative and really going all out. Making the event even more fun. I love adding flare, and I sometimes hold back. I always regret this move (the holding back, never the flare.)
7) Don't down play the accomplishment. If it is a big deal for you. It is a big deal. If it is a big deal for someone else...help them celebrate, and that celebration looks different to everyone. It's still a celebration.
8) Everything is important, yet very very little of it is serious.
9) I'm a whole lot stronger, smarter and funnier than I allow myself to be everyday.
What's next? I'm training for next year. I'd love to get on a team with a group of friends and folks really wanting to have fun and really into pushing themselves. I'm not giving up event walking. I enjoy it way too much. After walking over 11 miles, in some of the best areas my state has to offer, walking looks a little different to me. Time for a walk.
Until next week...create to feel great!
43 projects complete! 9 to go!
One last P2C craft. A gold canvas duffle bag. The right size for over packing all I thought I needed on the road. It served me well.
~Anatole France
I can now say I walked to the Oregon Coast. I competed in The Mother Of All Relays. I knew it was going to challenge me. I had NO idea in what ways. More on that in a bit. I want to talk about my stats. I'm so proud of the fact that I took 4 minutes off my walking time. Averaging a 16.5 minute mile. Our team finished in 35 hours. I didn't know I had a competitive streak that ran so deep in me. It came out. Because I had injured my lower back in July, I didn't compete against others, I competed against myself. I really had to find that source in me that believed I could do this thing. And I did this thing.
I have a million stories etched in my mind and heart. I have thousands of lessons, I want to share the most important ones I took away, as they apply to life, at least my life. So, not in any order...
1) There are Guardian Angels. I met one from Australia who helped me pace myself, work out a shin splint and told me I could do this thing. All within the first two miles of my walking adventure.
2) Have a plan for the end. I had no idea the physical and emotional tole this event and prep of the event takes. Couple that with sitting in the hot sun for two hours and team mates wanting me to take care of their questions and concerns. I hit a wall. Not pretty, but we all survived. Having a plan for the end before leaving town would have helped.
3) When going after a great thing...have a good friend with you. One is the minimum. I was lucky to have one of my best friends with me. Made the world of difference.
4) I need more cowbell in my life. Every time a van with a cheering cowbell ringing team passed me, I knew I had to keep going. So, more cowbell.
5) Look up from time to time. Especially at night. I saw the most amazing star show while I was trying to get some sleep in the non-sleeping field.
6) Add some flare to what you are doing, and don't hold back. I had made gold lame visors, yet I saw folks being so creative and really going all out. Making the event even more fun. I love adding flare, and I sometimes hold back. I always regret this move (the holding back, never the flare.)
7) Don't down play the accomplishment. If it is a big deal for you. It is a big deal. If it is a big deal for someone else...help them celebrate, and that celebration looks different to everyone. It's still a celebration.
8) Everything is important, yet very very little of it is serious.
9) I'm a whole lot stronger, smarter and funnier than I allow myself to be everyday.
What's next? I'm training for next year. I'd love to get on a team with a group of friends and folks really wanting to have fun and really into pushing themselves. I'm not giving up event walking. I enjoy it way too much. After walking over 11 miles, in some of the best areas my state has to offer, walking looks a little different to me. Time for a walk.
Until next week...create to feel great!
43 projects complete! 9 to go!
One last P2C craft. A gold canvas duffle bag. The right size for over packing all I thought I needed on the road. It served me well.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Gone For A Walk
Dear Readers and Followers-
If you are reading this post on August 24th or 25th, I'm out walking. Walking from my hometown of Portland, Oregon to Seaside, Oregon, on the Coast. No I'm not walking the entire 129 miles. I'm apart of a 12 person relay team. I'll be walking 11 miles over two days. Over hill and valley. Singing, walking and riding in a van with 6 ladies, one of them a dear friend.
I've been training for a year to do this walk. I'm nervous and excited. So, why did I decide to do this event? To focus. Focus on myself. My health and well-being. To heal and lose weight (which I have...50 pounds, thank you for asking.) To prove to myself that I can do something so off the chain that it shakes up my entire approach to life. So, it is not just a walking event for me. I think sometimes we have to shake up our lives in a healthy way. I can not wait to see the sand of Seaside and my dear husband on the sidelines waving me in.
So, focus. Over the years, I've discovered that what I focus on manifests itself in my life. With this Campaign, I've focused on my creativity and creating a positive attitude. I have more creative flow and I'm able to shift my thoughts, outlook and attitude to the sunny side of things quickly and with ease. With Portland to Coast training, I've created health, strength and endurance.
What to focus on next? I'll think about it as I walk.
Until next week...create to feel great!
42 projects complete...10 to go!
Another P2C craft....First Aid kit. Hopefully, we won't need it, but just in case...We'll be ready!
pockets for all the supplies. Bag flattens for ease of operation.
If you are reading this post on August 24th or 25th, I'm out walking. Walking from my hometown of Portland, Oregon to Seaside, Oregon, on the Coast. No I'm not walking the entire 129 miles. I'm apart of a 12 person relay team. I'll be walking 11 miles over two days. Over hill and valley. Singing, walking and riding in a van with 6 ladies, one of them a dear friend.
I've been training for a year to do this walk. I'm nervous and excited. So, why did I decide to do this event? To focus. Focus on myself. My health and well-being. To heal and lose weight (which I have...50 pounds, thank you for asking.) To prove to myself that I can do something so off the chain that it shakes up my entire approach to life. So, it is not just a walking event for me. I think sometimes we have to shake up our lives in a healthy way. I can not wait to see the sand of Seaside and my dear husband on the sidelines waving me in.
So, focus. Over the years, I've discovered that what I focus on manifests itself in my life. With this Campaign, I've focused on my creativity and creating a positive attitude. I have more creative flow and I'm able to shift my thoughts, outlook and attitude to the sunny side of things quickly and with ease. With Portland to Coast training, I've created health, strength and endurance.
What to focus on next? I'll think about it as I walk.
Until next week...create to feel great!
42 projects complete...10 to go!
Another P2C craft....First Aid kit. Hopefully, we won't need it, but just in case...We'll be ready!
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Ah! Resistance-I'm Callin' You Out!
As I'm writing this, I am five days away from doing the Mother of All Relay Races- The Portland to Coast Walk. Yes. That is right...I'm walking to the coast with 12 others. I've been working towards this event for a year. I've walked. I've injured myself. I've healed and I've walked some more. I've been crafting cool stuff to take with me to make life easier for myself and my team mates. The start day is in my sites. I was excited until I heard that the speed in which everyone else is walking this event it is going to take 40 hours! Really! My first thought was, "well screw this noise. If no one is going to push past their fears of being uncomfortable I'll stay home." I'm now at- it is what is. Maybe this is my team mates pushing and doing what they can. If it takes 40 hours. It takes 40 hours. After all, some team has to be last. Right?
What I felt I was hearing was my resistance to pushing myself coming up. It is always easier to look at someone else and what the are doing or not doing than look at our self. Yet the blame game never gets the job done. This applies to long distance relay walks and everything else in life.
Once again, the trick is to stop and realize what is going on. If something feels off. If something feels negative. If something feels like pushing a rock up a hill. Call it out!
How did I get out of this place I found myself in? I focused on the fun! I focused on making it fun! I've still got some days to train. All my training is fun stuff I want to do or fun places to walk to. I have an MP3 player loaded with only high energy fun favorites. I have a treadmill where I work that my boss set up to help me train on the downhills. I get creative and make stuff. Most of all I keep in mind that bottomline- it is me out there on the road walking. This fantastic experience will be what I bring to it. With my walking times, my attitude and my energy. Resistance can now hit the road, but it sure as hell doesn't get to walk along the same road I'll be walking.
How do you send resistance packing?
Until next week...create to feel great!
42 projects complete! 10 to go!
One more P2C project...an arm strap for my MP3 player. I discovered that my best walking pants, don't have pockets. And I love walking and singing to music!
What I felt I was hearing was my resistance to pushing myself coming up. It is always easier to look at someone else and what the are doing or not doing than look at our self. Yet the blame game never gets the job done. This applies to long distance relay walks and everything else in life.
Once again, the trick is to stop and realize what is going on. If something feels off. If something feels negative. If something feels like pushing a rock up a hill. Call it out!
How did I get out of this place I found myself in? I focused on the fun! I focused on making it fun! I've still got some days to train. All my training is fun stuff I want to do or fun places to walk to. I have an MP3 player loaded with only high energy fun favorites. I have a treadmill where I work that my boss set up to help me train on the downhills. I get creative and make stuff. Most of all I keep in mind that bottomline- it is me out there on the road walking. This fantastic experience will be what I bring to it. With my walking times, my attitude and my energy. Resistance can now hit the road, but it sure as hell doesn't get to walk along the same road I'll be walking.
How do you send resistance packing?
Until next week...create to feel great!
42 projects complete! 10 to go!
Saturday, August 11, 2012
90 Percent
With the Occupy Movement we started hearing about the 98%. Years ago, columnist Dear Abby, talked about 90% of what we worry about never happens. The other 10 % we can handle. Recently, I discovered the Secret Society of Happy People. They proclaim that most folks can really be happy 90 % of the time. They peg, 90% because of that 10 % which is life that often times just grabs at us and we can shake it no matter what. Happiness happens, they say. Sounds almost effortless.
Being sort of an all or nothing kind of girl, 90% doesn't seem like it it hitting the mark. Yes, 100% of the time is a nice lofty goal. Again, that 10 % gives us some wiggle room and takes the pressure off of being perfect. What I'm finding is most days hitting 90% is not an issue it is an easy stride, so I go for that 10%. That extra 10% is a wonderful feeling.
So be it worry or happiness we can always handle that 10%.
Do you think you are hitting the 90% happiness scale everyday? If not what would you like to do to hit that mark? If you are hitting the 90%...go for the extra 10% for a week and see how it feels.
Until next week...create to feel great!
41 projects complete. 11 to go.
More P2C projects....I volunteered to make my team, The Under Toes, visors to wear for the event. And being me...not just plain visors but gold lame visors (well for the ladies- black with gold trim for the men).
I think we'll be able to see each other in the crowds. 15 days and counting to race day! Yikes!
Being sort of an all or nothing kind of girl, 90% doesn't seem like it it hitting the mark. Yes, 100% of the time is a nice lofty goal. Again, that 10 % gives us some wiggle room and takes the pressure off of being perfect. What I'm finding is most days hitting 90% is not an issue it is an easy stride, so I go for that 10%. That extra 10% is a wonderful feeling.
So be it worry or happiness we can always handle that 10%.
Do you think you are hitting the 90% happiness scale everyday? If not what would you like to do to hit that mark? If you are hitting the 90%...go for the extra 10% for a week and see how it feels.
Until next week...create to feel great!
More P2C projects....I volunteered to make my team, The Under Toes, visors to wear for the event. And being me...not just plain visors but gold lame visors (well for the ladies- black with gold trim for the men).
I think we'll be able to see each other in the crowds. 15 days and counting to race day! Yikes!
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Lighting The Way
This last week, I was part of an amazing theater experience. Lights Up! workshop production of Anything But Brilliant - A Love Story. The play is brilliant. The road to creating this wonderful work has been brilliant. And a love story in it self. It furthered my lesson and exploration on the theme of working from a place of love or a place of ego. This was full on working from love. All aspects. And my oh my it was fantastic.
I've heard it said that "Love is the light that you see by". This was certainly the case. We have to willing to hold the lamp for ourselves and others. That way we all shine so brightly and the path is clearer.
I know it can be challenging in the world that doesn't want it to work this way. Yet we have to be strong. We need to stop, check and ask..."Is this coming from love or ego?" Here's how I will know for sure. Everything will go dark. In the darkness there will be doubt and confusion. Resistance and sadness. That is the signal ego is at work. Love brings light. Fluidity and ease. Joy and delight.
Now who doesn't need that?
Are you willing to attempt to stop, check and ask..."Is what I'm doing coming from love or ego?" At least for the next week, just see what happens in your life.
Until next week...create to feel great!
40 projects complete! 12 to go!
The project of the week is my Lime green fleece polka dot blanket for Portland to Coast. I know I'll be sleeping in the van and on the ground. I want something light and warm (we are headed to the Oregon Coast..it get's chilling in the mountains even in August.). So there it is. Count down to relay has begun. 20 days. Yikes! I better put the crafting down and do some walking!
I've heard it said that "Love is the light that you see by". This was certainly the case. We have to willing to hold the lamp for ourselves and others. That way we all shine so brightly and the path is clearer.
I know it can be challenging in the world that doesn't want it to work this way. Yet we have to be strong. We need to stop, check and ask..."Is this coming from love or ego?" Here's how I will know for sure. Everything will go dark. In the darkness there will be doubt and confusion. Resistance and sadness. That is the signal ego is at work. Love brings light. Fluidity and ease. Joy and delight.
Now who doesn't need that?
Are you willing to attempt to stop, check and ask..."Is what I'm doing coming from love or ego?" At least for the next week, just see what happens in your life.
Until next week...create to feel great!
The project of the week is my Lime green fleece polka dot blanket for Portland to Coast. I know I'll be sleeping in the van and on the ground. I want something light and warm (we are headed to the Oregon Coast..it get's chilling in the mountains even in August.). So there it is. Count down to relay has begun. 20 days. Yikes! I better put the crafting down and do some walking!
Saturday, July 28, 2012
I Don't Want To Go On The Cart
My dear sweet little MickeyGrrrl, who will turn 17 in October, has been having a bit of struggle as of late.
She had a treatable UTI, with that came two rounds of medications. Her legs and back are slowing down and are a bit painful. With this condition comes a weekly shot in the shoulder. Her kidneys are showing signs of needing a bit of support, so I'm now giving her sub Q fluids once a week or as needed. She also takes thyroid and blood pressure pills. A true little old Queen. I'm happy to report, that all of these efforts and more are showing signs of her being very happy and very comfortable. Aging gracefully. Enjoying her sleeping spots, her hummingbirds, her food, Gus and me. Still. I hit a wall about all this stuff this week. I was talking to a good friend in a effort to frame a context around all that I'm doing for her. My negative mind went to...well, she'll just die anyway. This is just prolonging it. Well, negative mind you get to shut up. Yes. she is in the winding down part of her life. Aren't we all really just dying? So, we might as well live it up!
My friend reminded me of the scene from Monty Python's Holy Grail. The scene where they are throwing bodies in cart. One of the people they are trying to throw in the cart says, "I don't want to go on the cart. I feel fine. I'm happy!" She told me to stop trying to throw MickeyGrrl in the cart. She's right.
I'll go one further, with trying to throw MickeyGrrrl on the cart, I was throwing myself in there as well. I was starting to give up on things. On life. Both of us have far too many days filled with everyone and everything we love to get on that cart. Because we feel fine. We are happy! It is a good thing to remember. Now when I get in that place. I just remember..."I don't want to go on the cart. I feel fine. I'm happy!" Also look at MickeyGrrrl and can almost hear her say..."I feel fine. I'm happy!"
Life is so good.
Are you throwing someone or yourself on the cart? (Yes, I know in the movie this character gets bonked on the head, and tossed in the cart. It is Monty Python after all.)
Until next week...create to feel great!
39 projects complete! 13 to go!
Strip of fabric (gold glitter cotton...thank you). Make a tube and fill the tube with 1/2 teaspoon of polymer crystals (floral dept. JoAnns or Michaels). Close up the tube. Soak in water. The crystals expand and hold water and have a cooling effect. These can also be frozen for an added cooling effect. Now we'll be stylin' and cool all around as we head down the road. 27 days to relay day. More P2C crafts to come in the following weeks. And yes...I'm doing my walking training. Thank you for asking.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
But I Don't Want To
"Nothing is impossible with a willing heart." John Heywood
Since last August, I've been walking in an effort to train for a local walking relay called Portland To Coast. Come this August 24th and 25th I will be on a team of 12 in two vans taking turns walking legs to the Oregon Coast. We will arrive at Seaside to a huge party celebration. I will be walking about 11.87 miles.
I decided to do this as a way to keep me motivated and working out. Once again, the value of having a vision or goal in mind or the brass ring to go after has hit home. I think without something like this, I get lazy and to be real honest sitting on the porch or watching TV is way easier. I think if I could figure out a way to stay in shape and be healthy by doing those two things, I'd much rather go that route.
So, how do I stay motivated? I keep focused on what I say I want. And not in a blah boring way, but in a way that is fun, alive and vibrant. Well, and because it's me...colorful and creative.
The last two weeks, my training has slowed a bit, because I tweaked my lower back. At other times in my life this would have been the finisher. The show stopper. Because I have this colorful fun vision of hitting this walking goal, I'm doing what I can to reach it while healing this injury. A friend of mine said that I now have an athlete's mind set going for me. Cool. And yet there are still time when I just don't wanna to walk. I just don't want to train. I just don't want to eat well. I just don't want to.
In those times I go back to my strong vision of what I want to accomplish. For me the vision has to engage all my senses. I really have to feel it inside and out. That connection is what propels me. I guess that is what some folks call passion. Or a willing heart.
I use this idea to create visions for everything I want in my life. It can't be a should've could've would've for me cause that's a vision killer. I allow me to connect to my inner self and find out what I need to do and want for the best of me. For there I get colorful and creativity and start coloring in the entire picture.
Yeah, I love sitting. I love sitting on my porch and I love TV. But there is much more in life. I find that discovering the much more to life, some days, it is just a walk a way.
Until next week...create to feel great!
38 projects complete! 14 to go!
This week...I tried my hand at making a visor. This one I will wear at the Mt. Tabor 5K Doggie Dash.
This is the fourth year I've done this event. I love to wear a hat, but they can be hot. So, I thought about a large brim visor. For my P2C team mates I will be making the traditional ball cap visor in gold lame.
And in the weeks to come...more P2C crafts as I prepare for "The Mother Of All Relays"! Stay in tuned. (I really do watch way tooo much TV)
Since last August, I've been walking in an effort to train for a local walking relay called Portland To Coast. Come this August 24th and 25th I will be on a team of 12 in two vans taking turns walking legs to the Oregon Coast. We will arrive at Seaside to a huge party celebration. I will be walking about 11.87 miles.
I decided to do this as a way to keep me motivated and working out. Once again, the value of having a vision or goal in mind or the brass ring to go after has hit home. I think without something like this, I get lazy and to be real honest sitting on the porch or watching TV is way easier. I think if I could figure out a way to stay in shape and be healthy by doing those two things, I'd much rather go that route.
So, how do I stay motivated? I keep focused on what I say I want. And not in a blah boring way, but in a way that is fun, alive and vibrant. Well, and because it's me...colorful and creative.
The last two weeks, my training has slowed a bit, because I tweaked my lower back. At other times in my life this would have been the finisher. The show stopper. Because I have this colorful fun vision of hitting this walking goal, I'm doing what I can to reach it while healing this injury. A friend of mine said that I now have an athlete's mind set going for me. Cool. And yet there are still time when I just don't wanna to walk. I just don't want to train. I just don't want to eat well. I just don't want to.
In those times I go back to my strong vision of what I want to accomplish. For me the vision has to engage all my senses. I really have to feel it inside and out. That connection is what propels me. I guess that is what some folks call passion. Or a willing heart.
I use this idea to create visions for everything I want in my life. It can't be a should've could've would've for me cause that's a vision killer. I allow me to connect to my inner self and find out what I need to do and want for the best of me. For there I get colorful and creativity and start coloring in the entire picture.
Yeah, I love sitting. I love sitting on my porch and I love TV. But there is much more in life. I find that discovering the much more to life, some days, it is just a walk a way.
Until next week...create to feel great!
This week...I tried my hand at making a visor. This one I will wear at the Mt. Tabor 5K Doggie Dash.
This is the fourth year I've done this event. I love to wear a hat, but they can be hot. So, I thought about a large brim visor. For my P2C team mates I will be making the traditional ball cap visor in gold lame.
And in the weeks to come...more P2C crafts as I prepare for "The Mother Of All Relays"! Stay in tuned. (I really do watch way tooo much TV)
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Not As It Seems
I went back to the Loaded Brush. The paint studio that lets you drink while learning how to paint. (Side Bar- Portland folks...it really is a great evening. You don't have to know how to draw or paint. It is freeing and creative. Go! Tell Aaron, DeeDee from the creativity blog sent you!)
So, back at the Loaded Brush...
We painted our version of Van Gough's Sunflowers. I went in to the class fearing I wouldn't know how to do this or how we would do this. Aaron is such a good and easy teacher, I decided to just trust the process and have fun. All was going well, I liked what I was painting. We came to the petals. Aaron instructed us in a 3 step process. The process involved globbing paint on the canvas. My mind went to how is this going to make petals. They look like globs of paint. All I could see were the globs of paint. I didn't see petals. I felt like the painting was ruined. I just kept telling myself, that it was a fun evening. The next morning the painting had dried. I had a night's sleep. I walked by the painting and I saw Sunflowers! I actually like the painting. I didn't see the globs of paint. I saw petals.
Out of something so messy came this cool look. I thought I knew how petals should be painted. I learned a new way. An unusual way.
After that evening of fun and painting, I got to thinking what else am I looking at one way and maybe there could be another way to approach it? Could I make petals out of globs of paint somewhere else in my life?
That painting shifte how I view and approach things. It was a really great evening!
Are you seeing blobs and globs or are the blobs and globs in your life really lovely pedals on you flowers?
Until next week...create (some blobs and globs) to feel great.
37 projects complete! 15 to go!
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And here's the painting!
So, back at the Loaded Brush...
We painted our version of Van Gough's Sunflowers. I went in to the class fearing I wouldn't know how to do this or how we would do this. Aaron is such a good and easy teacher, I decided to just trust the process and have fun. All was going well, I liked what I was painting. We came to the petals. Aaron instructed us in a 3 step process. The process involved globbing paint on the canvas. My mind went to how is this going to make petals. They look like globs of paint. All I could see were the globs of paint. I didn't see petals. I felt like the painting was ruined. I just kept telling myself, that it was a fun evening. The next morning the painting had dried. I had a night's sleep. I walked by the painting and I saw Sunflowers! I actually like the painting. I didn't see the globs of paint. I saw petals.
Out of something so messy came this cool look. I thought I knew how petals should be painted. I learned a new way. An unusual way.
After that evening of fun and painting, I got to thinking what else am I looking at one way and maybe there could be another way to approach it? Could I make petals out of globs of paint somewhere else in my life?
That painting shifte how I view and approach things. It was a really great evening!
Are you seeing blobs and globs or are the blobs and globs in your life really lovely pedals on you flowers?
Until next week...create (some blobs and globs) to feel great.
37 projects complete! 15 to go!
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Allowing All That's Allowed And More
One of my good friends was recently invited to attend an amazing play writing workshop in Italy, this August. Getting the funds together would mean a true act of faith and courage. My friend is amazing and very couragous. He set out his intention to go to this workshop. He told everyone, we all celebrated, send good thoughts and what we could. The gift of airfare came his way, he told me he almost said no, it was too much. But it was what he wanted and needed to get to his goal. My friend later told me that he knew if he turned down any part of this wonderful gift, the rest of the funds he needed wouldn't come his way. Why? Because we have to allow what we need and desire to enter our life. No questions. No thoughts of I'm not worthy or this is too much or I don't deserve this. We have to allow the energy, love, good thoughts to flow.
That's what my friend did. He's going to Italy in August to the workshop. For my lovely friend, it is a great honor and will help him become an even stronger play wright. I so happy for him and amazed.
I think we often ask the universe for things and or situations and then we stand with our arms folded and closed hands. I'm discovering the trick is to ask clearly and to stand with my heart, hands and arms wide open. Unquestioning. For however long it takes. No trying to shape what we think how it should go. No closing down. No looking back or around. That is the trick to allowing the good stuff to flow to you. It seems easy, but it is not. I always want to question. I always stop the flow.
I thank my friend for this example. It will stick with me and help me allow all that is allowed and more to come into my life!
Until next week...create to feel great!
36 projects complete. 16 to go!
This week's project was a thirft store find for a buck! A Tim Allen The ToolMan wood working project complete in the box. I wanted to make a clock for my new writing room. And this fun kit appeared.
With me...purple polka dots are the way to go! The clock works! Guess I better get to painting and decorating my writing room. Hum....I sense another project coming on!
That's what my friend did. He's going to Italy in August to the workshop. For my lovely friend, it is a great honor and will help him become an even stronger play wright. I so happy for him and amazed.
I think we often ask the universe for things and or situations and then we stand with our arms folded and closed hands. I'm discovering the trick is to ask clearly and to stand with my heart, hands and arms wide open. Unquestioning. For however long it takes. No trying to shape what we think how it should go. No closing down. No looking back or around. That is the trick to allowing the good stuff to flow to you. It seems easy, but it is not. I always want to question. I always stop the flow.
I thank my friend for this example. It will stick with me and help me allow all that is allowed and more to come into my life!
Until next week...create to feel great!
36 projects complete. 16 to go!
This week's project was a thirft store find for a buck! A Tim Allen The ToolMan wood working project complete in the box. I wanted to make a clock for my new writing room. And this fun kit appeared.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
The Unlimitlessness Of Gratitude
Gratitude. I'm coming to see that wonderful and powerful word is the key to making life wonderful and powerful. Expressing and acknowledging what I am truly grateful for is quickly becoming a daily practice in my life. Even on the days I get cranky or tense. Looking around me and acknowledging something I'm grateful for, shifts my mood. Clears my mind.
There really is so much in my life. Some folks would look at my life and agree. Others would not, as I'm so unconventional and a bit quirky. All that doesn't matter. I have a lot in my life to be grateful for. I haven't always been grateful. There were times in the past that all I could see is what I didn't have in my life. I was challenged to do a gratitude journal for a month. With a "I don't have much" attitude, that journal was a impossible. Yet I kept at it. Everyday for a month. Some where along the line, I came to the conclusion, that I had a lot in my life. Abundance was everywhere I looked. The problem I was having is that I thought abundance had to look a certain way. Lots of money. Lots of new things. Lots of lots of whatever. Those are nice and yet abundance is way better than all that. I was actually limiting myself by thinking I knew everything and how I defined abundance and what I was grateful for. Limiting beliefs and thoughts create frustration and they-well- limit us...paralize us, sometimes to the point of where all we can see in lack. When all we can see is lack, we can't really see all the wonderful things in our lives to be grateful for...even if it is something as simple as pasta or running water or a kitty who purrs so loud you can hear her down the hall. With that shift, life really opens us up to the possible. Unlimited supply.
What are you grateful for? Are you willing to express you gratitude?
Until next week...create to feel great!
35 projects complete. 17 to go.
Project of the week...neckties! For a friends daughter's wedding party. There will be 8 in total. Lovely green silk.
There really is so much in my life. Some folks would look at my life and agree. Others would not, as I'm so unconventional and a bit quirky. All that doesn't matter. I have a lot in my life to be grateful for. I haven't always been grateful. There were times in the past that all I could see is what I didn't have in my life. I was challenged to do a gratitude journal for a month. With a "I don't have much" attitude, that journal was a impossible. Yet I kept at it. Everyday for a month. Some where along the line, I came to the conclusion, that I had a lot in my life. Abundance was everywhere I looked. The problem I was having is that I thought abundance had to look a certain way. Lots of money. Lots of new things. Lots of lots of whatever. Those are nice and yet abundance is way better than all that. I was actually limiting myself by thinking I knew everything and how I defined abundance and what I was grateful for. Limiting beliefs and thoughts create frustration and they-well- limit us...paralize us, sometimes to the point of where all we can see in lack. When all we can see is lack, we can't really see all the wonderful things in our lives to be grateful for...even if it is something as simple as pasta or running water or a kitty who purrs so loud you can hear her down the hall. With that shift, life really opens us up to the possible. Unlimited supply.
What are you grateful for? Are you willing to express you gratitude?
35 projects complete. 17 to go.
Project of the week...neckties! For a friends daughter's wedding party. There will be 8 in total. Lovely green silk.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
The Big Black Block
I have been writing and creating for this blog for getting close to 3 years. Each week, I go merrily along my way. I create and write and post. I let folks know I'm posting with a Facebook announcement. I have some followers and there are comments, at times.
This last week, I discovered my Blogger account had been hacked. I had one sick Blog on my hands. I'm not the most savvy of computer users. I know just enough to get me in trouble (and have fun). This hacking and being listed as a harmful site was shocking and a little embarrassing to me. Once I got over the denial. "This is a mistake. It isn't happening to me. Who would do this to a creativity/positive growth blog?" The anger. "Damn it Google. Dam it Firefox. Damn it non existent tech support!" And the defeat. "This doesn't matter. No one reads what I write anyway. It is just a stupid blog. Might be time to hang it up."
Woza! A classic creative, moving towards my dreams and goal block. Staring at me in all it's nasty little ugly glory. It was like the negativity monsters were giggling at me and having a great little party in my head.
This blog attack isn't personal. The people who set these things up and attach sites with malware and all the other junk they have in their creative arsenal are after me. They don't even know or care to know me.
And I know folks read and enjoy my blog. I love doing this blog. My blog was sick it needed me to use my creativity to banish the negativity.
Given my very limited and awkward knowledge of all things computer and tech related I didn't even know where to start. I asked Broadside (who is my tech geek). He rolled his eyes and said, "That's a mess. You might want to just give this up." Not the answer I was looking for.
Time to employ some basic "get 'er done" creativity principals. Time to check inside myself and pull up what is needed to fix this issue.
I asked myself...How curious am I being? Am I asking questions or doing the research? Or just tossing my hands up and walking away.
How flexible am I being in my approach or thinking about this problem? Just because I don't know a lot about computers and the lingo. Doesn't mean I can't fix this. I had to let go of the fact that I don't know everything and had to be willing to find out what I don't know.
Am I willing to get out of my Comfort Zone? This means really focusing in an area I don't know about. Almost like going to foriegn country.
Lastly, was I willing to devote the energy to this? I asked myself how important is fixing this blog? The thought crossed my mind to just walk away and NOT fix this problem.
As I headed into this new world of saving my blog, I looked at like an adventure. I kept asking myself those four questions. I kept asking Google questions. I kept at the attempt to save my blog and rid it of the junk. This morning, I did a Google search for my blog and the dreaded message that this site could harm your computer was gone. I checked in on Blogger's WebMaster tools and got the message that I had no threats and my blog is once again healthy.
So, take that Malware and hackers! Creativity does indeed banish negativity! Score one for my team!!!
I feel really good about this and all I learned in the process. I'm still no techno geek, but I can at least get around with the computers a bit better.
I'm going to start to use these questions with much more awareness for future issues and creations.
Are you facing an isssue or the big black block that is getting in the way of what you want for your life?
Are you willing to work with these questions and see where the outcome takes you? I'd love to hear how that goes for you!
Until next week...create to feel great!
34 projects complete! 18 to go!
This week I created a zipper bag out of red brocade. I couldn't find a pattern I liked, so I made one myself. I hope the person I'm sending this to enjoys it.
This last week, I discovered my Blogger account had been hacked. I had one sick Blog on my hands. I'm not the most savvy of computer users. I know just enough to get me in trouble (and have fun). This hacking and being listed as a harmful site was shocking and a little embarrassing to me. Once I got over the denial. "This is a mistake. It isn't happening to me. Who would do this to a creativity/positive growth blog?" The anger. "Damn it Google. Dam it Firefox. Damn it non existent tech support!" And the defeat. "This doesn't matter. No one reads what I write anyway. It is just a stupid blog. Might be time to hang it up."
Woza! A classic creative, moving towards my dreams and goal block. Staring at me in all it's nasty little ugly glory. It was like the negativity monsters were giggling at me and having a great little party in my head.
This blog attack isn't personal. The people who set these things up and attach sites with malware and all the other junk they have in their creative arsenal are after me. They don't even know or care to know me.
And I know folks read and enjoy my blog. I love doing this blog. My blog was sick it needed me to use my creativity to banish the negativity.
Given my very limited and awkward knowledge of all things computer and tech related I didn't even know where to start. I asked Broadside (who is my tech geek). He rolled his eyes and said, "That's a mess. You might want to just give this up." Not the answer I was looking for.
Time to employ some basic "get 'er done" creativity principals. Time to check inside myself and pull up what is needed to fix this issue.
I asked myself...How curious am I being? Am I asking questions or doing the research? Or just tossing my hands up and walking away.
How flexible am I being in my approach or thinking about this problem? Just because I don't know a lot about computers and the lingo. Doesn't mean I can't fix this. I had to let go of the fact that I don't know everything and had to be willing to find out what I don't know.
Am I willing to get out of my Comfort Zone? This means really focusing in an area I don't know about. Almost like going to foriegn country.
Lastly, was I willing to devote the energy to this? I asked myself how important is fixing this blog? The thought crossed my mind to just walk away and NOT fix this problem.
As I headed into this new world of saving my blog, I looked at like an adventure. I kept asking myself those four questions. I kept asking Google questions. I kept at the attempt to save my blog and rid it of the junk. This morning, I did a Google search for my blog and the dreaded message that this site could harm your computer was gone. I checked in on Blogger's WebMaster tools and got the message that I had no threats and my blog is once again healthy.
So, take that Malware and hackers! Creativity does indeed banish negativity! Score one for my team!!!
I feel really good about this and all I learned in the process. I'm still no techno geek, but I can at least get around with the computers a bit better.
I'm going to start to use these questions with much more awareness for future issues and creations.
Are you facing an isssue or the big black block that is getting in the way of what you want for your life?
Are you willing to work with these questions and see where the outcome takes you? I'd love to hear how that goes for you!
34 projects complete! 18 to go!
This week I created a zipper bag out of red brocade. I couldn't find a pattern I liked, so I made one myself. I hope the person I'm sending this to enjoys it.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Love The Feast
Love After Love
The time will come
When, with elation
You will greet yourself arriving
At your own door, in your own mirror,
And each will smile at the other's welcome,
And say, sit here, Eat,
You will love again the stranger who was your self,
Give wine. Give bread. Give your heart,
To itself, the the stranger who has loved you
All you life, whom you ignored
For another, who knows you by heart,
Take down the love letters from the bookshelf,
The photographs, the desperate notes,
Peel your image from the mirror,
Sit. Feast on your life.
Derek Walcott
Do you know and love the stranger who has loved you? That stranger who was your self? Are you ready to invite that self to feast on your life?
Until next week...
Create to feel great!
33 projects complete! 19 to go!
This week's project...a painted gnome for my garden, which is doing great! I finished up eating radishes. I waiting for peas and beets. Tomatoes have blossoms as do the peppers. And what in the world do I do with a HUGE parsley plant? Maybe this gnome can help.
The time will come
When, with elation
You will greet yourself arriving
At your own door, in your own mirror,
And each will smile at the other's welcome,
And say, sit here, Eat,
You will love again the stranger who was your self,
Give wine. Give bread. Give your heart,
To itself, the the stranger who has loved you
All you life, whom you ignored
For another, who knows you by heart,
Take down the love letters from the bookshelf,
The photographs, the desperate notes,
Peel your image from the mirror,
Sit. Feast on your life.
Derek Walcott
Do you know and love the stranger who has loved you? That stranger who was your self? Are you ready to invite that self to feast on your life?
Until next week...
33 projects complete! 19 to go!
This week's project...a painted gnome for my garden, which is doing great! I finished up eating radishes. I waiting for peas and beets. Tomatoes have blossoms as do the peppers. And what in the world do I do with a HUGE parsley plant? Maybe this gnome can help.
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Whew! Whatta Challenge!
"Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage. The human spirit is to grow strong by conflict." ~William Ellery Channing
Mr. Channing you said a mouthful there! I do believe there is a ton of truth in that quote. I'm discovering that it is all in how I respond to the difficulties that makes the difference in me and my growth. If I feel defeated or want to act like whatever difficulty is happening in my life isn't happening, it keeps popping up. If I greet the difficulty with open arms, welcome it, not let it get the better of me and my mood and then engage my creative process to figure out a way through the difficulty- I do indeed grow and come out much stronger on the other end. Forward movement is way better than sitting in depression. Once again, it is all about my mind set and how I perceive what is going on in my life.
So, do we have to be strong people to life our lives? No. I think there are plenty of folks in this world who strengthening their spirit is the furthest thing from their minds and actions. That is their choice. It is not a choice I've been driven to at any point in my life. I also think at some point we do get a call to action, that's why we are put here. Again.. how do we respond to that call? You know I'm going to respond with my creativity.
How do you or will you respond?
Until next week...create to feel great!
32 projects complete! 20 to go!
This week's project...butterflies. It is about of an effort to help the Holocaust Museum of Houston with their display honoring and remembering the children who lost their lives in at the hands of Nazis during World War II. There were 1.5 million children murdered. There will be a butterfly for each of those children. I will be sending a dozen. Contact me if you would like to know how to contribute butterflies. I think the display will be stunning when complete.
UPDATE- These are crocheted with wires added. Very very quick and easy free pattern at
http://margarethubertoriginals.com/BUTTERFLY.html
Mr. Channing you said a mouthful there! I do believe there is a ton of truth in that quote. I'm discovering that it is all in how I respond to the difficulties that makes the difference in me and my growth. If I feel defeated or want to act like whatever difficulty is happening in my life isn't happening, it keeps popping up. If I greet the difficulty with open arms, welcome it, not let it get the better of me and my mood and then engage my creative process to figure out a way through the difficulty- I do indeed grow and come out much stronger on the other end. Forward movement is way better than sitting in depression. Once again, it is all about my mind set and how I perceive what is going on in my life.
So, do we have to be strong people to life our lives? No. I think there are plenty of folks in this world who strengthening their spirit is the furthest thing from their minds and actions. That is their choice. It is not a choice I've been driven to at any point in my life. I also think at some point we do get a call to action, that's why we are put here. Again.. how do we respond to that call? You know I'm going to respond with my creativity.
How do you or will you respond?
Until next week...create to feel great!
This week's project...butterflies. It is about of an effort to help the Holocaust Museum of Houston with their display honoring and remembering the children who lost their lives in at the hands of Nazis during World War II. There were 1.5 million children murdered. There will be a butterfly for each of those children. I will be sending a dozen. Contact me if you would like to know how to contribute butterflies. I think the display will be stunning when complete.
UPDATE- These are crocheted with wires added. Very very quick and easy free pattern at
http://margarethubertoriginals.com/BUTTERFLY.html
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Blissful
"Don't be afraid to follow your bliss and doors will open where you didn't know they were going to be."
~Joseph Campbell
Ah, bliss. That is such an easy word on the eyes and mind. Just saying brings a sigh of release. A smile to the heart. Bliss. Why is it the such a lovely word is so scary? I'm going out on a limb here, but I think most folks want that feeling of bliss in their lives. Yet what is really bliss? And where in the world do I find it?
Uh oh, it is in the moment. Dang. You mean to tell me I can buy bliss? I can't force bliss? I have to live and be aware in the moment? Well, yes. That pesky moment. That here and now. Learning to be in that place. Then learning to follow where it takes us. That is where great life journeys start and continue. The moment is where all things come together. Where bliss lives.
Summer is a great time to discover that feeling of bliss and what it means to us. So, this is my annual ode to summer. Time to follow your bliss, whatever it maybe. See the doors opening before you as you step into the warmth of the moment and create a great time for you. Not only for just a summer but for all your seasons.
Summer is just a great time to start.
What is your bliss? Are you following it? Is it opening doors for you and taking you places you never thought possible? If you aren't experiencing all that, when would you like to start? (hint..now.)
Until next week...create to feel great!
31 projects complete. 21 to go.
Project this week...is a Dotee Doll. This wonderfully little unique dolls, that are the rage on Swap-bot.
I made a Joan of Arc and a Cleopatra. They are addictive to make and design. My next one will be a mermaid.
~Joseph Campbell
Ah, bliss. That is such an easy word on the eyes and mind. Just saying brings a sigh of release. A smile to the heart. Bliss. Why is it the such a lovely word is so scary? I'm going out on a limb here, but I think most folks want that feeling of bliss in their lives. Yet what is really bliss? And where in the world do I find it?
Uh oh, it is in the moment. Dang. You mean to tell me I can buy bliss? I can't force bliss? I have to live and be aware in the moment? Well, yes. That pesky moment. That here and now. Learning to be in that place. Then learning to follow where it takes us. That is where great life journeys start and continue. The moment is where all things come together. Where bliss lives.
Summer is a great time to discover that feeling of bliss and what it means to us. So, this is my annual ode to summer. Time to follow your bliss, whatever it maybe. See the doors opening before you as you step into the warmth of the moment and create a great time for you. Not only for just a summer but for all your seasons.
Summer is just a great time to start.
What is your bliss? Are you following it? Is it opening doors for you and taking you places you never thought possible? If you aren't experiencing all that, when would you like to start? (hint..now.)
Until next week...create to feel great!
Project this week...is a Dotee Doll. This wonderfully little unique dolls, that are the rage on Swap-bot.
I made a Joan of Arc and a Cleopatra. They are addictive to make and design. My next one will be a mermaid.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Love or Ego
This morning I had another insight about the creative process. Here goes. Creating anything from a place of ego, will wind up in frustration and fear. Creating anything from a place of love, winds up going smooth and can be deemed a success. Love is the place to work from. Ego feeds on fear. Ego doesn't want anyone to succeed, it just needs to be fed. Love feeds on more love. Coming from a place of love everyone succeeds. The creative well doesn't dry up. Coming from love, the posibilities are endless. Ego shuts everything and everyone down. Folks might say, "Well, a strong ego means a strong confident person." I disagree big time. Ego pops up when fear is in play. It is how we cover up (not very well) that we are afraid of being found out and maybe not who we say we are. Ego is a part of us, yet it is the fearful place in us. The side that is doesn't want the world to see who we really are for fear of not being accepted.
Love is all about joyful acceptance. It brings out who we really are, warts and all. If you are stuck. Try loving the situation or person you are currently in. (sometimes very hard to do. Doesn't mean allowing them to run over you or abuse you.) Most of all love you.
Operate from a place of love. Creative and life will flow. End of insight.
Are you operating from a place of love or ego.
Until next week...create to feel great.
30 projects complete. 22 to go.
This week's project is a new tote bag. With a little owl. My own design! Gold canvas.
Love is all about joyful acceptance. It brings out who we really are, warts and all. If you are stuck. Try loving the situation or person you are currently in. (sometimes very hard to do. Doesn't mean allowing them to run over you or abuse you.) Most of all love you.
Operate from a place of love. Creative and life will flow. End of insight.
Are you operating from a place of love or ego.
Until next week...create to feel great.
This week's project is a new tote bag. With a little owl. My own design! Gold canvas.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Paint Crazy
In my quest of all things creative, I discovered this wonderful wonderful new local business called The Loaded Brush. It a BYOB painting class. Folks can have a glass of wine or beer or two or three and learn to paint a copy of a famous painting. I got a deal on Living Social and invited my friend Marilee to join me for an afternoon of creative fun. It was a great time. The owner, Aaron is laid back, informative, and funny. The studio is light and bright. What I really appreciated about Aaron is that he honestly believes anyone can paint, create and have a ton of fun in the process. We painted copies of The Chat Noir. We didn't have wine or beer, but had a relaxing enjoyable afternoon. I danced out of there feeling like I was a painter in Paris 1920's. As much creating I do, I don't think of myself as a painter. (Well, I paint rooms in my house, but not an art painter.) I amaze myself every time I create a painting. As we were painting Aaron mentioned a term he calls "Paint Crazy". That's when our negative voice rises up and says all sort of nasty blocking things. Aaron suggested we step back, walk away, take a break in order to shut the voice down. I was so in love with the moment and process, I didn't experience "Paint Crazy", until later in the week, when I was creating a costume for a show and suddenly everything I was putting together was wrong I felt like scrapping the entire show. There it was "Paint Crazy". Dang. I stopped what I was doing. Went for a walk. Did some yoga and made some dinner. The craziness got so bad, it was making me cranky and bitchy. I picked a fight and yelled at poor Broadside. It took me a good night sleep and two more long walks, and I think I shook it. This morning the costume that triggered this, looked good to me. Finally!
My copy of The Chat Noir, looks awesome to me. I want to paint more and will.
So, to Aaron at The Loaded Brush in SE Portland, I thank you for a fantastic afternoon, lessons on painting, making it easy for me to create something I'm proud of, and helping me realize the depths of "Paint Crazy."
Folks and Followers, if you live in Portland...check out The Loaded Brush. I can not imagine you not having a great time and loving what you paint. It might be a great way to put that "I'm just not creative" chatter to rest (which by the way is close friend of "Paint Crazy".)
Have you ever experienced "Paint Crazy"? How do you shake it off?
Until next week...Create to feel great!
29 projects complete 23 to go!
And this blog post would not be complete without showing off my version of The Chat Noir!
My copy of The Chat Noir, looks awesome to me. I want to paint more and will.
So, to Aaron at The Loaded Brush in SE Portland, I thank you for a fantastic afternoon, lessons on painting, making it easy for me to create something I'm proud of, and helping me realize the depths of "Paint Crazy."
Folks and Followers, if you live in Portland...check out The Loaded Brush. I can not imagine you not having a great time and loving what you paint. It might be a great way to put that "I'm just not creative" chatter to rest (which by the way is close friend of "Paint Crazy".)
Have you ever experienced "Paint Crazy"? How do you shake it off?
Until next week...Create to feel great!
29 projects complete 23 to go!
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Grandma
I often say that I was lucky to have the benefit of the wisdom of some pretty amazing women in my life, as I was growing up. My mom's mother was so much a great mom. She wasn't the a loving grandma. It just wasn't in her make up. I don't think she ever really wanted to be either one, but she came from a time and place where that was what women did. Got married (which she did a lot) and have kids (which she did 3 times). She was a chef in a time when women were not allowed to wear the chef coat. Yet she could cook her way around any of the great chefs past or present. She love a cigarette, a beer and a good game of cards. My memories of her are of summer nights at the dog racing track, fall afternoons cooking and baking down the kitchen, early misty mornings on the beach digging for clams and her flair for creating life drama. To say she was a character wouldn't even begin to cover all that was her.
I've been thinking about the other day, as I'm creating costumes for a production of Hamlet in a graveyard. The graveyard she that is her fianl resting place. She never knew the contribution she made in my life. I'm a good cook because of her. I know how to pick a winner and not just at the dog track. I think a good helping of my creativity came from her. I will also forever be grateful for her giving me the quote. "There is always money and time for cigarettes, a bottle of booze and a trip to Reno." Not one of the great metaphysical quotes of our time, but there is a ton of wisdom in the quote. If there is something we want, we can figure out a way to get it. Leave it to my grandma to make it colorful.
This is Mother's Day weekend, and whereas Grandma was never the warm loving spoiling type of Grandma, she gave me a lot of gifts. And for that I thank her. It will be nice to have her there during tech week. I think see might like the costumes I'm building for Gertrude.
Until next week...create to feel create!
28 projects complete! 24 to go!
Project of the week...Something I did with some of those Kanzashi flowers I got crazy with and couldn't stop making. My good friend needed a fun Asian flavor hat...so a fortune cookie fasinator with Kanzashi flowers.
I've been thinking about the other day, as I'm creating costumes for a production of Hamlet in a graveyard. The graveyard she that is her fianl resting place. She never knew the contribution she made in my life. I'm a good cook because of her. I know how to pick a winner and not just at the dog track. I think a good helping of my creativity came from her. I will also forever be grateful for her giving me the quote. "There is always money and time for cigarettes, a bottle of booze and a trip to Reno." Not one of the great metaphysical quotes of our time, but there is a ton of wisdom in the quote. If there is something we want, we can figure out a way to get it. Leave it to my grandma to make it colorful.
This is Mother's Day weekend, and whereas Grandma was never the warm loving spoiling type of Grandma, she gave me a lot of gifts. And for that I thank her. It will be nice to have her there during tech week. I think see might like the costumes I'm building for Gertrude.
Until next week...create to feel create!
28 projects complete! 24 to go!
Friday, May 11, 2012
Back To The Trenches
"The secret of joy in work is contained in one word - excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it."~ Pearl S. Buck
Last year, I decided to take a break from doing costume work. I've created costumes off and on for over 25 years. I wanted and needed a break to allow myself to explore other creative avenues.
An interesting and possibly fun project presented itself to me in the last month. A production of Hamlet set in a graveyard. Modern dress. Hum... the timing was right. The pay was okay. It is with a company I have enjoyed working with in the past. I'll do it.
I've been told I know what I'm doing when it comes to costumes. It is sort of in my blood. I grew up around it. Over the years, I've had a real love/hate relationship with it. I love the creating. I love working with the people. I love theater. I hate the hours I have to spend. I hate it that there are some people for which there is no pleasing-ever! The visions are always huge and the budgets are very tiny tiny tiny. It challenges me on all levels of my process. I have to be a diplomat, a designer, seamstress, artisan, psychologist, mind reader and magician. So love/hate. Yet I think that happens with anything or anyone we love. We sometime just get worn down. That is the point, when I look at and ask how might I create excellence. I know costumes. I truly and really do. As I start to work on this project, my plan is to focus on excellence. I have already started that. Guess what? I'm discovering a new joy is something that could be so automatic for me. Yes this show is not without the challenges and frustrations. I'm going to continue to challenge myself to create in the mode of excellence. Celebrate the joy. Even when I'm digging in the trenches to get the work completed on time.
I'll let you know how I do.
Until next week...Create to feel great!
27 projects complete! 25 to go!
This week's project...bow ties. For the production. Why don't I just go buy them? Well, I have the fabric. And at $3.00 to $5.00 a piece and needing 6. I saved $18.00 to $30.00 bucks of an already tiny budget. Plus, it is a fun project.
Last year, I decided to take a break from doing costume work. I've created costumes off and on for over 25 years. I wanted and needed a break to allow myself to explore other creative avenues.
An interesting and possibly fun project presented itself to me in the last month. A production of Hamlet set in a graveyard. Modern dress. Hum... the timing was right. The pay was okay. It is with a company I have enjoyed working with in the past. I'll do it.
I've been told I know what I'm doing when it comes to costumes. It is sort of in my blood. I grew up around it. Over the years, I've had a real love/hate relationship with it. I love the creating. I love working with the people. I love theater. I hate the hours I have to spend. I hate it that there are some people for which there is no pleasing-ever! The visions are always huge and the budgets are very tiny tiny tiny. It challenges me on all levels of my process. I have to be a diplomat, a designer, seamstress, artisan, psychologist, mind reader and magician. So love/hate. Yet I think that happens with anything or anyone we love. We sometime just get worn down. That is the point, when I look at and ask how might I create excellence. I know costumes. I truly and really do. As I start to work on this project, my plan is to focus on excellence. I have already started that. Guess what? I'm discovering a new joy is something that could be so automatic for me. Yes this show is not without the challenges and frustrations. I'm going to continue to challenge myself to create in the mode of excellence. Celebrate the joy. Even when I'm digging in the trenches to get the work completed on time.
I'll let you know how I do.
Until next week...Create to feel great!
27 projects complete! 25 to go!
This week's project...bow ties. For the production. Why don't I just go buy them? Well, I have the fabric. And at $3.00 to $5.00 a piece and needing 6. I saved $18.00 to $30.00 bucks of an already tiny budget. Plus, it is a fun project.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Year 3 Half Time Report
"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go."~ T.S Eliot
This post marks the half way point in Year 3 of this Campaign. I really feel like I've come a long way. I also feel like there is so much further to go. For the most part I enjoy that feeling. I'm always amazed at myself and the discoveries I make. The items I find to create. I've always known that creativity is endless, limitless and boundless. As vast as the universe itself. I'm testing that knowledge. I'm yet to say, "Well, I've crafted everything I can here. I've created everything I can." It's looking like it will be a long time, if ever, before I say that.
Another thing that I'm finding amazing is that, I'm changing in my approach to the world, in general. Attitudes, beliefs and world views change. It's a lighter feeling. I like it. A lot.
I keep meeting more amazing people. I keep connecting with the folks in my life at a deeper level. I'm creating a life I sort thought was possible, but was afraid to go after fully. This moment never looked so good.
When I started this Campaign and when I really wanted to go for Year 3, I kept thinking that this was really going a little too far for me. What I've discovered, is that I haven't gone far enough, yet.
Thank you for being on this ride with me. Now, let's...
Create to feel great!
26 weeks complete! 26 to go!
I like to celebrate with flowers. This week it's Kanzashi flowers. Folded fabric. I can not stop making them.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Role Model
This week, I met the most amazing and creative person. We got connected through a mutual friend. When this creative woman called to ask me if I would like to come over and take a look at some fabric she was giving away, I could not resist. Free designer fabric. Yeehaw! I'm so there. What I didn't know is that I was going to be in for a great afternoon and full of insights around the creative process.
The house she lives in is a testamony to creativity. I've rarely met anyone, who like myself dabbles in everything and I do mean everything. Creativity oozed out of her. She shined like a bright bright beacon. Now I think I have a lot of energy, at 71, this woman made me look like a slug. She said that it is the creativity that pumps her up. In our brief time together I learned and was reminded of some key life points.
Some the highlights were:
Stay curious. Always ask questions and don't be afraid to ask the deep ones, and this goes for asking those questions to yourself. Then shut up and listen for the answer.
Positive creatation is as important as food, water, light and air. Don't ever go a day without creating something. No matter how small.
Laugh and play. The best way to do that is to stay curious and in the moment.
Make mistakes and make them often. There's magic in them.
Try something new, all the time.
Something can be made out of what looks like nothing.
Don't be afraid to tell you story and share it with the world.
That last point was important for me to hear. She gave me a ton of fabric, of which I know not what I'm going to make out of it. More importantly, she gave me reminders of power of positive creating can bring to ones life. Her attitude embodied what I want to do with this Campaign. To infuse positive thoughts and creative actions into not only myself but the world. In the hopes others would do the same.
I wanted to share.
Until next week...create to feel great!
25 projects complete! 27 to go!
This week's project is something new...Button Fairies. They are made with a mix of paper images and buttons. The buttons make a tail and the fairies have to have a loop for hanging. Who doesn't love a fairy?
The house she lives in is a testamony to creativity. I've rarely met anyone, who like myself dabbles in everything and I do mean everything. Creativity oozed out of her. She shined like a bright bright beacon. Now I think I have a lot of energy, at 71, this woman made me look like a slug. She said that it is the creativity that pumps her up. In our brief time together I learned and was reminded of some key life points.
Some the highlights were:
Stay curious. Always ask questions and don't be afraid to ask the deep ones, and this goes for asking those questions to yourself. Then shut up and listen for the answer.
Positive creatation is as important as food, water, light and air. Don't ever go a day without creating something. No matter how small.
Laugh and play. The best way to do that is to stay curious and in the moment.
Make mistakes and make them often. There's magic in them.
Try something new, all the time.
Something can be made out of what looks like nothing.
Don't be afraid to tell you story and share it with the world.
That last point was important for me to hear. She gave me a ton of fabric, of which I know not what I'm going to make out of it. More importantly, she gave me reminders of power of positive creating can bring to ones life. Her attitude embodied what I want to do with this Campaign. To infuse positive thoughts and creative actions into not only myself but the world. In the hopes others would do the same.
I wanted to share.
25 projects complete! 27 to go!
This week's project is something new...Button Fairies. They are made with a mix of paper images and buttons. The buttons make a tail and the fairies have to have a loop for hanging. Who doesn't love a fairy?
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