tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372759462471112532024-02-18T21:25:36.652-08:00Creativity TransformsDiscover the power of imagination in you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-42370134753748856702016-01-09T07:10:00.000-08:002016-01-09T07:10:33.196-08:00Be PresentThe first week of 2016 has come and gone. It's been a tough start because it began with a personal loss. A dear friend passed away on January 2nd after a very long illness. The wife he left behind is one of my favorite people. She is my hero and I am in awe of her strength. She handled each and every trying situation with grace and patience. I could feel God's presence in every moment. The dawn of this new year hasn't been an easy one, yet the experience has inspired me to rethink my goals for 2016. <br />
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I will be present. I am committing myself to practicing mindfulness in all activities, situations and interactions. <br />
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Practicing mindfulness and presence may sound easy to some people, but for me it's going to be a challenge. My days seem to be filled with activities and interactions where I don't have time to pause, let alone think! I'm overwhelmed by "busyness" and reacting to stimuli. I haven't made it a practice to stop, think, consider different options and just breathe. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Journal page 12 /29/15-1/7/16</td></tr>
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Here are some ways I will practice mindfulness:<br />
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I will listen more than I speak.<br />
I will freely give my time to others.<br />
I will keep my surroundings free of clutter.<br />
I will inspire others without constraints.<br />
I will create my own art every day.<br />
I will not gossip or pass judgement.<br />
I will practice meditation and yoga.<br />
I will pray before taking action.<br />
I will be present.<br />
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Like many people, I've found setting goals is essential to successfully accomplishing difficult tasks. I also know the best goals stretch me beyond my comfort zone. When I'm pushed to my limits, I'm inspired to find strength. As I design my happy, healthy and wealthy goals for 2016 I will include mindfulness. I will be completely present and there will be an added sweetness to my accomplishments.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-43297329464460445242015-10-31T06:38:00.002-07:002015-10-31T06:44:31.392-07:00The Curious Creative<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Eclipse"<br />
Watercolor on paper 12x18 2015</td></tr>
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Just about every day of my teaching career I've had at least I one
student ask me the same question.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> From kindergarten through 12th grade they're all curious about the same thing. </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Be</span>fore I even let them in the art room they want information.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes they stop me in the hall when they
first get off the bus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I might be
deep in conversation with another person and I'll feel a tug on my sleeve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I turn around they'll ask me, “What are we doing in art today?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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At times I feel a little impatient or annoyed. I'm not going to go into all of the things we need to do in class. I would have to repeat the answer over and over again. Plus whatever I say will lead to more questions. I don't have time for all of that! </div>
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But I ask myself the same kinds questions everyday. I start my wakeful thinking with curiosity. As I get out of bed in the morning I ask myself things like:</div>
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- What am I going to wear?</div>
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- What am I going to eat?</div>
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- What's on my agenda?</div>
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- How am I going to get it all done?</div>
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Some mornings I approach the day with a sense of dread because of all the things I "need" to do. Taking care of my obligations can deflate my enthusiasm and, at times, paralyze me. I procrastinate, avoid, make excuses and end up feeling stressed and frustrated. I'm worry more about taking care of things rather than just enjoying the day.</div>
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What kind of attitudes would I get if burdened my students with the specifics of academic objectives? What if I told them what they really needed to accomplish in each class? What if I said, "you're going to be exposed to a standard of learning where you will be using drawing, cutting and gluing to create a work of art."</div>
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But instead I say:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMsCzvMWl72nXDj1SlChHVz986cnTxmXkKlQ-m3ghqHopEtjW5RN6Sp5Fwzrw4WomaYL51xA_h8c6VtR6d2piYYexC-ovPILsyFxbuI_puOXjPmJl836QCw_veJl9aQFYYI4P1xUCaLgg/s1600/IMG_3944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMsCzvMWl72nXDj1SlChHVz986cnTxmXkKlQ-m3ghqHopEtjW5RN6Sp5Fwzrw4WomaYL51xA_h8c6VtR6d2piYYexC-ovPILsyFxbuI_puOXjPmJl836QCw_veJl9aQFYYI4P1xUCaLgg/s400/IMG_3944.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Eclipse"<br />
First Grade 12 x 18 Mixed Media Collage</td></tr>
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"We're going to get in my rocketship and fly to the moon! We're about to do something AWESOME!"</div>
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I started using this phrase when I taught middle school. At first it was just an answer to preserve my sanity. Then it became part of my regular dialog. Sometimes my answer prompts more questions:</div>
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"You have a rocketship?"</div>
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"How long does it take to get to the moon?"</div>
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"What are we going to do when we get there?"</div>
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Or it starts a discussion:</div>
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"Do you think she's telling the truth?"</div>
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"Do you see the rocketship?"</div>
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"Do you think we'll be back for lunch?"</div>
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Or sometimes it just makes them smile.</div>
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My hope is for my students to enter the classroom excited. I want them to be seeking answers, instead of dreading the lesson. When they see paint, glue, crayons, brushes and papers, I want them to feel inspired to experiment. So when I call them to attention, they're enthusiastic to hear what I have to say. I can then steer the artroom rocketship as they expand their creative curiosity. Some days we even sprinkle on a little glitter!</div>
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Curiousity is the root of all learning. Asking questions gets ideas flowing. My brain, like those of my students, questions everything. And like them, I'm seeking inspirational answers, instead of boring "to-do" lists. </div>
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So I'm challenging myself to begin each day with a simple question:</div>
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"What awesome thing am I going to accomplish today?"</div>
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Then I'll polish up my rocketship and fly to the moon.</div>
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Do you want to come?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-91373996104997970832015-06-26T06:04:00.000-07:002015-06-26T06:26:19.291-07:00Retreat to Create<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhD7eS6J9MsAARk3vGPQ3IMJeIVmdT7qm_fWPob3Z8H0LuVb9qVT_vcO6u9hXTEMdib4qgH2skhHinTgaWoBZQb_9NTAE3JuYrIIbFr-_cHm09LmH477vVgKS9A5X029S3I59YBdSo88/s1600/IMG_3162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhD7eS6J9MsAARk3vGPQ3IMJeIVmdT7qm_fWPob3Z8H0LuVb9qVT_vcO6u9hXTEMdib4qgH2skhHinTgaWoBZQb_9NTAE3JuYrIIbFr-_cHm09LmH477vVgKS9A5X029S3I59YBdSo88/s200/IMG_3162.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyj4acZvdNMBO7-DgJu3r5FUd7RdapnYJm3JKrL5D38GJFAM7qCtjt6n8Lt8ORgO-mYhl2qZRenY1tL66ONRye7YqJ28faQF2gemP7_Isi87wUCN5tMw9U6XiyQH8W_9h8dW4jzHh8Ag/s1600/IMG_3158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQyj4acZvdNMBO7-DgJu3r5FUd7RdapnYJm3JKrL5D38GJFAM7qCtjt6n8Lt8ORgO-mYhl2qZRenY1tL66ONRye7YqJ28faQF2gemP7_Isi87wUCN5tMw9U6XiyQH8W_9h8dW4jzHh8Ag/s200/IMG_3158.jpg" width="150" /></a>Last weekend <a href="http://creativesouljuice.blogspot.com/">Hobby</a> and I held our first Dare to Create Retreat in beautiful Weems, Virginia. Our program was about designing a new life theme through creativity. We began with food, cocktails, and art projects as everyone painted glasses and illustrated scarves. After dinner we then explored our stories with an exercise to discover our core values.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOa4dRP8tcT9G9qMDqTfq0rB2LV2-D4YdqkKBHqhLDmJFPEcdIYsmCL5VYE2nzzWJOHoMtNcS2AH3MbAWqVPl2JJpYT0i5CcybLHXXV42ybT2CCe2i8rO8wQjJRIqadhCJksF3ZRxm7xo/s1600/yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOa4dRP8tcT9G9qMDqTfq0rB2LV2-D4YdqkKBHqhLDmJFPEcdIYsmCL5VYE2nzzWJOHoMtNcS2AH3MbAWqVPl2JJpYT0i5CcybLHXXV42ybT2CCe2i8rO8wQjJRIqadhCJksF3ZRxm7xo/s200/yoga.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLi4yIfYr9LtTMs-FET4HT5WgIJ3DN1p6ZUjuzXJKisK83LeWJlGdi3NT0o3uOWaQ95q1VT_IadjsgSCKjFd4euCWnselJKoOQkp2bULTGeaToYHh7BEIuqZMJrEMqtHjjMTd1ej0NH1w/s1600/yoga+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLi4yIfYr9LtTMs-FET4HT5WgIJ3DN1p6ZUjuzXJKisK83LeWJlGdi3NT0o3uOWaQ95q1VT_IadjsgSCKjFd4euCWnselJKoOQkp2bULTGeaToYHh7BEIuqZMJrEMqtHjjMTd1ej0NH1w/s200/yoga+2.jpg" width="200" /></a>Saturday began with a meditation and some yoga on the dock. It was a beautiful morning as the light sparkled on the water with fish jumping and birds singing. Even the most timid and inexperienced participants felt the release as we opened our minds and stretched our bodies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOmpztIVdjP5hkwZzg2vs8UArXlAttqhmIB11T_Xg6FL8rNXbruT7_DkWQT8Qf0SswRJ60WQilGTA2w0iltBWMc3C4v2eQ3fmHL2286dgOiec4wgGy4Q8fPXglGVN1OZKVtdB0WpJf3c/s1600/11141379_10153109505658640_2580618107721773398_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOmpztIVdjP5hkwZzg2vs8UArXlAttqhmIB11T_Xg6FL8rNXbruT7_DkWQT8Qf0SswRJ60WQilGTA2w0iltBWMc3C4v2eQ3fmHL2286dgOiec4wgGy4Q8fPXglGVN1OZKVtdB0WpJf3c/s200/11141379_10153109505658640_2580618107721773398_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYIiWScMqVRaAx7DgZStHTkh21D3S0g_CYdfqn3r9pVR7SHhiixakxYmYqfeQjGvkP7xzQ0WM-Mqqg6xyAFU6vRMaCqj75wCmqmb27GaxDA07jK9aUu41pfHH66R-adVDEQYdbI37Ls8/s1600/11046502_10204717127787471_498360408361369429_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYIiWScMqVRaAx7DgZStHTkh21D3S0g_CYdfqn3r9pVR7SHhiixakxYmYqfeQjGvkP7xzQ0WM-Mqqg6xyAFU6vRMaCqj75wCmqmb27GaxDA07jK9aUu41pfHH66R-adVDEQYdbI37Ls8/s200/11046502_10204717127787471_498360408361369429_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RxYmZ_L_ixqaXqvJNNr1nqUph9hRnby6293QPq7uASHtA0KFQ5ep3pFDFGhR7-HTW9QVT2nF1smUP9esZccb_rMcKoAoD4C1mVGEMOCIMBNgyalSgNyZN9iGNZL5ckTOPMkVR3wum5g/s1600/1977481_10204717128427487_7528862589519477080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="109" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RxYmZ_L_ixqaXqvJNNr1nqUph9hRnby6293QPq7uASHtA0KFQ5ep3pFDFGhR7-HTW9QVT2nF1smUP9esZccb_rMcKoAoD4C1mVGEMOCIMBNgyalSgNyZN9iGNZL5ckTOPMkVR3wum5g/s200/1977481_10204717128427487_7528862589519477080_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcgQOthE64dX8luuLAqFThoFbwVtzvsd20QMbSJSY8W_by_tmawSQUVR9I4zKJ2QHyJcna9qSHKqDS-xriMPA-7y7r5ishtVx8EL7Av8vSshlKqhSa0aUd9Xkdjsnr6HNtWppXMIg5zE/s1600/10177900_10204717129747520_7511095198977549883_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqcgQOthE64dX8luuLAqFThoFbwVtzvsd20QMbSJSY8W_by_tmawSQUVR9I4zKJ2QHyJcna9qSHKqDS-xriMPA-7y7r5ishtVx8EL7Av8vSshlKqhSa0aUd9Xkdjsnr6HNtWppXMIg5zE/s200/10177900_10204717129747520_7511095198977549883_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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Then it was time for some art play. We printed, painted, stamped and drew as new techniques and materials were explored. At times the materials were overwhelming, but with laughter and collaboration everyone was inspired.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDWYgzQg_fw8jNWpMDngbS6P3b_Lu5uqngV34pmFzdNtGcp5anGMfjZnak6hZ6dIzjiNOXQ_946k8VKr17Qw2lshdHvMhcP9oP008wV3x00wjII01lR3pfZM889GLM7LeYbqR2Bjxmtc/s1600/10437660_10204717132507589_2679913660189775776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDWYgzQg_fw8jNWpMDngbS6P3b_Lu5uqngV34pmFzdNtGcp5anGMfjZnak6hZ6dIzjiNOXQ_946k8VKr17Qw2lshdHvMhcP9oP008wV3x00wjII01lR3pfZM889GLM7LeYbqR2Bjxmtc/s200/10437660_10204717132507589_2679913660189775776_n.jpg" width="150" /></a>After lunch we began to pull everything together as we introduced visual journaling. Each page can represent a different ideas in designing a new life theme. Values, love, songs, dreams and selfportraits were some of ideas participants focused on. <br />
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And the results are beautiful!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmk7gDk7YWWbAJE4LbEQTv7sHiqbRcNdoslExWzAAfcW0LoJAf_FdWNo_DcYVyIYpoVE5PnlHhV3GBvv-4drq660A_twC5fnpg-D0Oxa75dthiaBAh2zmndTRBw_6TtUpvYQisVqNNvwE/s1600/1512423_10153005606546801_2375499311518993902_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmk7gDk7YWWbAJE4LbEQTv7sHiqbRcNdoslExWzAAfcW0LoJAf_FdWNo_DcYVyIYpoVE5PnlHhV3GBvv-4drq660A_twC5fnpg-D0Oxa75dthiaBAh2zmndTRBw_6TtUpvYQisVqNNvwE/s320/1512423_10153005606546801_2375499311518993902_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKg9zew1HfZp9lerJrTCEmyNeiXWl9iZSx6Va9T7w-xWacsV4SE4QLM1Ws0rTLpASbswa6OKFHFlPNyAld8rd4yXoYW2dPeQP14frGWzV4BwVVpZzddkQjWTrw2JEzC68Y91zWfd4B0qI/s1600/11659552_10206758854070860_5205029761016782568_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKg9zew1HfZp9lerJrTCEmyNeiXWl9iZSx6Va9T7w-xWacsV4SE4QLM1Ws0rTLpASbswa6OKFHFlPNyAld8rd4yXoYW2dPeQP14frGWzV4BwVVpZzddkQjWTrw2JEzC68Y91zWfd4B0qI/s320/11659552_10206758854070860_5205029761016782568_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwebP_yQd6KCWWL2P07FLQy4ay33dZ7SVULryV6hu026S5DSN2lEJMRX4bSUJW0AZ2esVSQklcj3fnsPmooxIQ8JzbecVZnN8CfumF9n04PraDbqspGyBB9QKEVvT7CWT_QJdoC1jDKSg/s1600/11659433_10206635011651978_6853381936110978418_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwebP_yQd6KCWWL2P07FLQy4ay33dZ7SVULryV6hu026S5DSN2lEJMRX4bSUJW0AZ2esVSQklcj3fnsPmooxIQ8JzbecVZnN8CfumF9n04PraDbqspGyBB9QKEVvT7CWT_QJdoC1jDKSg/s200/11659433_10206635011651978_6853381936110978418_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I would share all of their pages but some are very personal. A life theme journal can be share or just remain private. Visual journaling is more about the process than the product. Let go of your old stories and write a new one!<br />
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Our last project was to create Artist Trading Cards. These "mini-masterpieces" are little creative doodles we made using watercolors, pens, stamps and collages. I'll share these images in a future blog post!<br />
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I hope this weekend was as rewarding for all the participants as it was for me. I learned so much from these amazing women and can't wait to continue our creative collaboration!!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-40419602835406033902015-05-19T02:06:00.000-07:002015-05-19T02:06:09.953-07:00Changes<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8oM7ilT1n3rTPcFUlu9RP4DXzRcv6965n-OH4VZTKb21RNfZriOJ4PUoXUjWqZvCu0f2Ye3ZlNziwB70pJG6mmj1wS9YoDkGQr9HsMMMHQN8x-Y9ibhhLlHMof8p73QV8_ZZX-WKMhg/s1600/IMG_1715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8oM7ilT1n3rTPcFUlu9RP4DXzRcv6965n-OH4VZTKb21RNfZriOJ4PUoXUjWqZvCu0f2Ye3ZlNziwB70pJG6mmj1wS9YoDkGQr9HsMMMHQN8x-Y9ibhhLlHMof8p73QV8_ZZX-WKMhg/s320/IMG_1715.JPG" width="320" /></a>So far this year has been like an ultra long marathon. There were times when I felt like I was running in cement shoes through mountains of marbles. I'd trudge along, slide back, inch forward, get off course or just simply crash into a wall. I was bombarded with ideas, demands, committments and challenges. But now I see the finish line up ahead. <br />
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In just a few weeks I'll be finishing up my time in Texas. When I'd agreed to move here in 2012 it was for 5 years. Then a combination of things happened and my time was extended an additional 3 years.<br />
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It's time for many changes. I'm heading back to Virginia to enjoy the next phase in my life. In August I'll start a new job in a familiar place. Back to an elementary art room at a school where my teaching career began. I'm excited and a little nervous. But change is good and I'm ready.<br />
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I'm returning to my hometown a different person than when I left. I am happy for so many reasons. I'm married to an amazing man who I adore. I create every day and I inspire others to do so. I'm so much healthier. I've lost over 60 pounds and have completed 10 half marathons. And I've learned to focus on my core values: Creativity, Learning, Collaboration, Happiness and Family.<br />
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This summer is going to be a busy one and I'm planning on enjoying every minute! But I'm going to try to take some time to calm my mind and breathe.<br />
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<a href="https://snapguide.com/guides/create-a-labyrinth/">Creating a Labyrinth</a> is a little journaling exercise I designed to help with focus.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-50078535490025241372014-11-14T08:17:00.001-08:002014-11-14T08:17:13.261-08:00Details, Details, Details.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVb1hkQJ1ZMJpPQ5hIfj5eij7mkJXpEgM0hC0Rwdyt28I3J3cPGViSKd3eFVKmMO0fNN9eUnAnzevqnIx3N4I4onzIrvUBNoeN3mEDcqY4aUtDcH5SUvT2BIojXK0blWu1S8MuiI4EpM/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVb1hkQJ1ZMJpPQ5hIfj5eij7mkJXpEgM0hC0Rwdyt28I3J3cPGViSKd3eFVKmMO0fNN9eUnAnzevqnIx3N4I4onzIrvUBNoeN3mEDcqY4aUtDcH5SUvT2BIojXK0blWu1S8MuiI4EpM/s1600/001.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM2hDeGGR6ZBw3u1ZS45io1t5STGifn2RkHrbyLY1RJYqb-9EHDCrI62Iac-PfS8cjnqiQZ_323Gz5OHOLs6JlcpMnC_9Mncuoyru0FTwRFdVfq0jHEpSpmZ8SYb4KMSsttSgEhIUhLI/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirM2hDeGGR6ZBw3u1ZS45io1t5STGifn2RkHrbyLY1RJYqb-9EHDCrI62Iac-PfS8cjnqiQZ_323Gz5OHOLs6JlcpMnC_9Mncuoyru0FTwRFdVfq0jHEpSpmZ8SYb4KMSsttSgEhIUhLI/s1600/002.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a> Architectural details can be frustrating at times. I get my sky just right, but when I step back I notice my lines are not right. So I pulled out my biggest ruler and a water soluble pencil. This type of pencil blends really well with acrylic paint so I can easily soften the lines.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0N3qvDMPEntM7NqVnyL8t9Twr7bAbCxZxYACqjWY1KvP4GB_JYO9U2Wm4_h74J87weQsa5h_FrMjM2SRboRpryT0dAkT02qV3rMtkt4vr7fVYn_wDPcSahRrxVQfDfEcCeurMXNXazOY/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0N3qvDMPEntM7NqVnyL8t9Twr7bAbCxZxYACqjWY1KvP4GB_JYO9U2Wm4_h74J87weQsa5h_FrMjM2SRboRpryT0dAkT02qV3rMtkt4vr7fVYn_wDPcSahRrxVQfDfEcCeurMXNXazOY/s1600/005.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before #1</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqYER4z6NkCsv2OXFA1uF3q0LqgzeTAqczViLS69EoPr6UsyAMaFU3Ud8NUJbj6XX62TBJHeBqDzUU5NmfBcqjo-niS-ZcwuwLJrpdjmATPblpNuaKkZJqzGSO5_fAYYsWE0WxKYyCloA/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqYER4z6NkCsv2OXFA1uF3q0LqgzeTAqczViLS69EoPr6UsyAMaFU3Ud8NUJbj6XX62TBJHeBqDzUU5NmfBcqjo-niS-ZcwuwLJrpdjmATPblpNuaKkZJqzGSO5_fAYYsWE0WxKYyCloA/s1600/004.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a> After I redrew the lines I had to change some of the angles. I did so by reworking the negative spaces around the railing. I used a dark green and matte medium because I knew I was going to develop the sea grass in those areas later.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrakEVf7aDITlWRIcr26hF7hVDN_VxNrNlsBPl86Qaol-Gjc5C5WAaicTxU-jS-xd3iECdkSC-3k2iSu6Pd4SjtJazZ3_gTwg1XDTEpgSH5reUd0fibbuyvrdakb99m6CGxUsw0IktgRc/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrakEVf7aDITlWRIcr26hF7hVDN_VxNrNlsBPl86Qaol-Gjc5C5WAaicTxU-jS-xd3iECdkSC-3k2iSu6Pd4SjtJazZ3_gTwg1XDTEpgSH5reUd0fibbuyvrdakb99m6CGxUsw0IktgRc/s1600/006.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before #2</td></tr>
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I then lightened those negative spaces and began to add shadows to the boardwalk. But it still didn't look right to me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2e0zZ8I4XCsCYbFssPUJPhW3-XXNdTjqCTNhP2pFTgKD4E1AGjbXSb0ucWZnI2Z73C8wG0l50SLa53F4sCZ2HNOhiRUN2u34msj1WHYV9bfT911V-SwzM9cEp3PXURtOXXfqNILwAelM/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2e0zZ8I4XCsCYbFssPUJPhW3-XXNdTjqCTNhP2pFTgKD4E1AGjbXSb0ucWZnI2Z73C8wG0l50SLa53F4sCZ2HNOhiRUN2u34msj1WHYV9bfT911V-SwzM9cEp3PXURtOXXfqNILwAelM/s1600/008.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Progress as of 11/14/14</td></tr>
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So I pulled out my ruler again and this time I drew my lines with white paint. All of these alterations required me to repaint parts of the sky and water. Details require lots and lots of modifications and patience.<br />
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The boardwalk still isn't finished but the lines are better. So it was time to attack the sea grass. Using small brush strokes of greens, golds and sand colors the dunes are beginning to take shape.<br />
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I think I'll take the weekend off. I'll attack the rest of the details next week.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EpkZaPseY1d1ypFM9vPtRd-VtTuU-080dZT22gRI_fWbA_L89YHoD_4hVAdxnx5-Z-I0nfKLApG8ODEx9IA0Bh8Ik6ZRB4Z3_fYYeiBhr18VV-UD2wbB1QI6plXld5kVf42DHPzN35A/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6EpkZaPseY1d1ypFM9vPtRd-VtTuU-080dZT22gRI_fWbA_L89YHoD_4hVAdxnx5-Z-I0nfKLApG8ODEx9IA0Bh8Ik6ZRB4Z3_fYYeiBhr18VV-UD2wbB1QI6plXld5kVf42DHPzN35A/s1600/009.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45aVdc03Q9Fqt9L4YEq_4TBbrNyFKxaGtkt64LgwhmwcdIqLwy1EmgjDNbCh3q00s27gUdzx-vbucqPubExJxVJwQlYKSkN0Nf2u1hTDN2Yjdq_tTM0ObhB9ovDB_j-oh_jA3TbtweGI/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45aVdc03Q9Fqt9L4YEq_4TBbrNyFKxaGtkt64LgwhmwcdIqLwy1EmgjDNbCh3q00s27gUdzx-vbucqPubExJxVJwQlYKSkN0Nf2u1hTDN2Yjdq_tTM0ObhB9ovDB_j-oh_jA3TbtweGI/s1600/010.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-75040927720382230132014-11-06T07:20:00.000-08:002014-11-06T07:20:03.735-08:00Painting is not always easy.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yooTAFYGyxByCL2pTSIsgho9qZaeHE8iqPb5vrpRGJ7M4D_hnQZBApSbDsYKXvGQ8bqh_RQgdYstVqfC314Yd3bBLUsGXQUOBZC1D8VvjckVyPQQ19SZJwnlvhn2Jvm-ErFKCcyYdbA/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yooTAFYGyxByCL2pTSIsgho9qZaeHE8iqPb5vrpRGJ7M4D_hnQZBApSbDsYKXvGQ8bqh_RQgdYstVqfC314Yd3bBLUsGXQUOBZC1D8VvjckVyPQQ19SZJwnlvhn2Jvm-ErFKCcyYdbA/s1600/004.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">before # 1</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjS8jKV9mVCPCKg_v7H6tGQ9qXx-EA0YMjI9KUjKHq02ExoOWdRgkv784pHZUCfJyogHPtSBXcRO-wCw8xY-4NIJLqBQ_XReGLEwg4zuZrwsdhNiB_A26lwIVyID0q4g-cxI3r9dejMo/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjS8jKV9mVCPCKg_v7H6tGQ9qXx-EA0YMjI9KUjKHq02ExoOWdRgkv784pHZUCfJyogHPtSBXcRO-wCw8xY-4NIJLqBQ_XReGLEwg4zuZrwsdhNiB_A26lwIVyID0q4g-cxI3r9dejMo/s1600/007.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">before #2</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKvjP6gLsXnXNWymIMqNXDDJpNsalaRWojT0mMOB1Pp5ZIKvq78d6JNmvK87REaSXrL3KRsCqWUDkFIiZ0IEszs9yfaY5Qo_rJ6TOMzsg5xU6Awi6I8hzgWtJ7XkXIqhDGIWOy9FsAMM/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHKvjP6gLsXnXNWymIMqNXDDJpNsalaRWojT0mMOB1Pp5ZIKvq78d6JNmvK87REaSXrL3KRsCqWUDkFIiZ0IEszs9yfaY5Qo_rJ6TOMzsg5xU6Awi6I8hzgWtJ7XkXIqhDGIWOy9FsAMM/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Sometimes my paintings are created with relative ease. Other times the process is a struggle. I have to continue to work on the image by changing colors, textures, values and details. This creation hasn't been easy.<br />
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The under painting in "before #1" was too vibrant so I muted in in "before #2" by adding layer's of grays and greens. But I still wasn't quite where I wanted to be. So I began to re-establish the composition in my foreground by redrawing the boardwalk in charcoal and white paint. (Don't worry the boardwalk isn't done - still has a long way to go!)<br />
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Then I started to experiment with different treatments on the dunes. I wanted to create the feeling of an early morning sunrise. I wanted to try different levels of detail. On the left I tried a more realistic approach by defining individual grasses<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26RiuVvtKkqSttGaFFFKhRo-3UGIBRcDXL5L0IYF29SWVk-Soef3jS3kSBkrVi9IdpgT9916NdL7a71ZtEEic7mS8ynNYqCi5FXy_jmPnmK9htFxrNvjkYNVPo9PC4xvTycNAyy278_A/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26RiuVvtKkqSttGaFFFKhRo-3UGIBRcDXL5L0IYF29SWVk-Soef3jS3kSBkrVi9IdpgT9916NdL7a71ZtEEic7mS8ynNYqCi5FXy_jmPnmK9htFxrNvjkYNVPo9PC4xvTycNAyy278_A/s1600/002.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">left closeup</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3rzsop7-e3s7WadkWUfMBQhFNTdEYuHH1ytN_FBfZRvVb7bUiwteOZE5yfBESoBnFZKtkx-A_CNtOuW-SHuSUFO6bxTV6V9CuLR4q_MnEVrWz1BWrAY-EmBW2mHKNhxqU4_M-ieTGJE/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3rzsop7-e3s7WadkWUfMBQhFNTdEYuHH1ytN_FBfZRvVb7bUiwteOZE5yfBESoBnFZKtkx-A_CNtOuW-SHuSUFO6bxTV6V9CuLR4q_MnEVrWz1BWrAY-EmBW2mHKNhxqU4_M-ieTGJE/s1600/003.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a>When I started to work on the right side I took a more abstract approach to representing the dunes. I blurred the sand and grasses a little more. To me the right "feels" more appropriate for the time of day. It still needs some more work, but I think this is the direction I'll be going on both sides.<br />
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Trial and error is my favorite way to paint. I try to always keep an open mind when I start a painting session. I experiment with colors and techniques. At times I fail, wipe off paint, cover over areas and start again. Underneath my acrylic are layers my creative journey. Always learning. . . . .<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-51808522381211986022014-11-04T07:34:00.004-08:002014-11-04T07:34:54.307-08:00Time BanditsSome nights I go to bed wondering where the day has gone. While I start off with good intentions I seem to get sidetracked by so many things. As a creative artist I tend to put my own work on hold while I take care of the squeakiest wheels. Fall can be the most difficult for me because I try to cram too many things into too little time. Right now my life is full of Time Bandits<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILsG86Ks9OZj1BM1OLvh63QyMhCHEQDaM7DOopNU7nRENzkBW6Ckgn5pslQAMQFDn2Qij5PiOG7dOz-QrM8duNolZLl_OKqT-39iz4niB_SirBGO5lkOWocFJ_YdaJSKF8RtrtEcmN1g/s1600/time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILsG86Ks9OZj1BM1OLvh63QyMhCHEQDaM7DOopNU7nRENzkBW6Ckgn5pslQAMQFDn2Qij5PiOG7dOz-QrM8duNolZLl_OKqT-39iz4niB_SirBGO5lkOWocFJ_YdaJSKF8RtrtEcmN1g/s1600/time.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a>This topic came up when I was recently chatting with with my friend and business partner<a href="http://creativesouljuice.blogspot.com/2014/07/how-creativity-can-inspire-your-day.html"> Hobby Parent</a>. She reminded me that everyone has the same 24 hours in their day and we need to start guarding our time. During this conversation we decided the best way to thwart these time bandits is to get back to setting goals, committing to daily actions and keeping each other accountable.<br />
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My list of time bandits:<br />
<ol>
<li>television</li>
<li>social media</li>
<li>email</li>
<li>phone calls</li>
<li>chores</li>
<li>people</li>
</ol>
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My list of things I really want to accomplish:</div>
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<ol>
<li>daily creating</li>
<li>writing</li>
<li>organizing my home</li>
<li>releashing weight</li>
<li>increasing training</li>
<li>high quality interactions with people.</li>
</ol>
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So for the month of November I'm setting the goal to use my time purposefully. I'm not going to let my time be stolen by insignificant activities. I'm going to cut back on allowing Time Bandits to keep me from my goals.</div>
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So here's my plan:</div>
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1. If I'm watching TV I will multi-task- crochet, doodle, sit-ups</div>
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2. No more than 30 minutes of social media - I'll set a timer</div>
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3. I'll clean out my email box every day for 15 minutes</div>
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4. I'll make phone calls when I'm walking the dog.</div>
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5. I'll spend 30 minutes a day cleaning/organizing my home</div>
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6. I'll schedule time with the people I want to spend time with. This could be a meal, a phone call or skype. </div>
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And tomorrow I'll get back to my painting - - - - <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-54946568015480511812014-10-30T10:31:00.005-07:002014-10-30T10:31:56.884-07:00Building Texture<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_wGGnIt_Al7lIhsVZFb9hRcrfdS0bec104oat60EvbY9qgvha7T2vcoLF5AoXkwvl31ZpVLcYcvXNzSIsky-yJ_FZgVJXJ893Afy31XZrKsuClv5tirWng7Hxtbf9CIUEagyH4yqqnU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_wGGnIt_Al7lIhsVZFb9hRcrfdS0bec104oat60EvbY9qgvha7T2vcoLF5AoXkwvl31ZpVLcYcvXNzSIsky-yJ_FZgVJXJ893Afy31XZrKsuClv5tirWng7Hxtbf9CIUEagyH4yqqnU/s1600/001.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZEuW-Qt4S_t2rSV_kRtDklG8B4HfomHssgY1hUED1TvVae3KbURecZ1tqwkJYlwskavqVu7zzhoOZKAcFnz6sWclJxUhBCIYtzRHN8U3Sz0YU9SSK3ccqUzY65xVOGBfJG1TIgwm8yZY/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZEuW-Qt4S_t2rSV_kRtDklG8B4HfomHssgY1hUED1TvVae3KbURecZ1tqwkJYlwskavqVu7zzhoOZKAcFnz6sWclJxUhBCIYtzRHN8U3Sz0YU9SSK3ccqUzY65xVOGBfJG1TIgwm8yZY/s1600/002.JPG" height="150" width="200" /> </a></div>
I'm going to use two different types of texture in this painting, actual and simulated. I'll be adding simulated texture toward the end of the painting process. <br />
But today I'm creating actual texture.<br />
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To build up the surface in the area where the sand dunes and grasses are I spread a thick coat of gel medium. I then took a tile scraper and "combed" through the medium creating lines going in multiple directions. To develop another variation in the surface I used a paper towel. Gel medium is clear so when it dries the under painting will show through.<br />
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Because this painting is about early morning I've begun to soften the colors in the foreground. I've done this by replacing the bolder greens, yellows and oranges with duller versions of them. These lower intensities were created by mixing each hue with some of the color opposite on the color wheel (the complement). I also added some white to brighten some areas where there will be only sand.<br />
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I redrew the boardwalk and will continue working on the dunes after the paint dries.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-3856471339694637182014-10-29T07:11:00.003-07:002014-10-29T07:11:30.041-07:00Angry Sky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Looking at my painting today I noticed I'd created a very angry sky. The clouds appeared to be ominous like they're on the verge of breaking into a thunderstorm. Not the peaceful sunrise I was aiming for. Time to cool it down.<br />
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Purple is a cool color. But this color appeared too aggressive in my clouds, probably because of all the yellow in the sky. The contrast of these color opposites (aka-complementary colors) was too great.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikopsKQC4IuFkwgQExgSC2xKkMzvgxohRlNrbUEL5EgiVQicgIqLPfJwWUXB-4aDe6of1zafagixXBbq7fxeOveBgFSWFBS3pRajI2BuGk2IPyXeNmN5t-jZjMyISZR1cB4JmEb7SyBtM/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeK6TL4W_DHKawRhacjZJ4mJLspgvd2O2aBcYrA_EorwKTd1JayGejCpPjXgkf2c58iu-u1gPi3W94YbuCJOi_0IbBJZviFpht_6Jz22W22q-8je6zTOYpeFgOSkfi5M9A-PKYwamSJ4/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeK6TL4W_DHKawRhacjZJ4mJLspgvd2O2aBcYrA_EorwKTd1JayGejCpPjXgkf2c58iu-u1gPi3W94YbuCJOi_0IbBJZviFpht_6Jz22W22q-8je6zTOYpeFgOSkfi5M9A-PKYwamSJ4/s1600/001.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJKnch0zKGd3ibPxc9mDTaLSZkX6ZnnXABbTz1ifpensIq82fXeqnisgq02aWd2ySILTKbRqotmaYEvyAnhEDrSMxtw8UGmD9U2dsguWfOMB5XFQuioVLWM2vIvmRoBcHXpW7rzoOhAA/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJKnch0zKGd3ibPxc9mDTaLSZkX6ZnnXABbTz1ifpensIq82fXeqnisgq02aWd2ySILTKbRqotmaYEvyAnhEDrSMxtw8UGmD9U2dsguWfOMB5XFQuioVLWM2vIvmRoBcHXpW7rzoOhAA/s1600/002.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a> 1. I began to add a wash of blue to the left side of the sky. Not only did this cool down the temperature of the colors but it reinforce my focal point - the sunrise on the right.<br />
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2. I still wanted the feeling of billowy clouds so I fluffed in some white. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikopsKQC4IuFkwgQExgSC2xKkMzvgxohRlNrbUEL5EgiVQicgIqLPfJwWUXB-4aDe6of1zafagixXBbq7fxeOveBgFSWFBS3pRajI2BuGk2IPyXeNmN5t-jZjMyISZR1cB4JmEb7SyBtM/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikopsKQC4IuFkwgQExgSC2xKkMzvgxohRlNrbUEL5EgiVQicgIqLPfJwWUXB-4aDe6of1zafagixXBbq7fxeOveBgFSWFBS3pRajI2BuGk2IPyXeNmN5t-jZjMyISZR1cB4JmEb7SyBtM/s1600/004.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a>3. I brightened the horizon line with a wash of orange and pink. Then I added a little more color to the ocean. Before I finished the painting session I "cleaned" my palette by adding some color to my dunes and boardwalk, I never like to waste paint.<br />
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Tonight I meet with my painting group and am ready for critique. I can't wait for their feedback on my work!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavmeMl_Io6NqB88_Zb3oyt1h_QxfhNZ7a0m8xJFzw5yYFGvrPpauUM0tT73KF7hYS43OOXLmI9uf-ohXkzVoMvhcFll7UYzMDaQnekC32uK5URQTvuN7pCXXJP-l2keCtWdjenEx-GV0/s1600/landscape+process+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhavmeMl_Io6NqB88_Zb3oyt1h_QxfhNZ7a0m8xJFzw5yYFGvrPpauUM0tT73KF7hYS43OOXLmI9uf-ohXkzVoMvhcFll7UYzMDaQnekC32uK5URQTvuN7pCXXJP-l2keCtWdjenEx-GV0/s1600/landscape+process+001.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFS1YJxtQk86CnL22NeKi-nvm_mc32MH3gz8govw9hFu9IqnkEg5E5hDBF7lCJ5B8lrY0XGp_d9I54fgw9DtyC9CrpNlc2EeG2IiIr59JMJXehhCBK9jlASDGHBZkCiDNGFVpKKC5F6Xk/s1600/landscape+process+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFS1YJxtQk86CnL22NeKi-nvm_mc32MH3gz8govw9hFu9IqnkEg5E5hDBF7lCJ5B8lrY0XGp_d9I54fgw9DtyC9CrpNlc2EeG2IiIr59JMJXehhCBK9jlASDGHBZkCiDNGFVpKKC5F6Xk/s1600/landscape+process+002.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a>1. The basic forms are sketched in - sky, water, dunes and boardwalk.<br />
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2. I decided my composition was too symmetrical so I decided to change the size and shapes of the dunes and began to develop the sky.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpshy2pK7QilJgcEpkSFen3dYrqoVpyrp8bKXRlZJb4BkGSsht9baYXnRlSBSFxFAG9wrW3cXxYIzwO2EG863wVbgZvxPbruuIG5IV4c5ReK6UQ1q6TKtu0sWgK0Pqu2u7yKi-ghsy4o/s1600/landscape+process+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpshy2pK7QilJgcEpkSFen3dYrqoVpyrp8bKXRlZJb4BkGSsht9baYXnRlSBSFxFAG9wrW3cXxYIzwO2EG863wVbgZvxPbruuIG5IV4c5ReK6UQ1q6TKtu0sWgK0Pqu2u7yKi-ghsy4o/s1600/landscape+process+004.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a> 3. The water needed some color.<br />
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4. When I stepped back and looked at my painting I realized the boardwalk ended at the horizon line.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiyB8J6NSMLAJRxOjMP988w1pn8kPDy7QBdhH9q81f460cz2RVke3HFkxxIFiHRRdqNvr-UK2lPZjftOhI9Mif3PLYIoYAimls3NjvPU7wXu8OwhWxeGiBSKCDTHZbehA71_QMC3vmf4/s1600/landscape+process+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiyB8J6NSMLAJRxOjMP988w1pn8kPDy7QBdhH9q81f460cz2RVke3HFkxxIFiHRRdqNvr-UK2lPZjftOhI9Mif3PLYIoYAimls3NjvPU7wXu8OwhWxeGiBSKCDTHZbehA71_QMC3vmf4/s1600/landscape+process+006.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a> 5. So I lowered the end. With acrylics it's easy - I just painted white over the area and added sky and water.<br />
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6. Today I'm working on the sky. I'm not using a single picture as my source, but I'm looking at lots for inspiration. I'm not happy with the current state of the sky - too violent for a calm sunrise. <br />
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During my painting process even when I'm focusing on one area I add touches all over my canvas.This helps me develop a sense of continuity in my compositions. I want to see all of the colors on my palette throughout my work. If I'm painting orange in the sky I might clean paint residue off my brush by blending it on the dunes. This also helps to develop more texture on the surface.<br />
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Tomorrow I will work on resolving the sky. The ugly stage might go on for a while longer.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-19208358724602078362014-10-27T07:40:00.002-07:002014-10-27T07:40:58.529-07:00A blank canvas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDg456mLm85FYR06eO5WBwSDkoE_zi9FJPqh4wdQyPtGPxAifUw60c4urP0f0x-YU_6G8nYJ-6aV-EvKSn_mDRnnfzi5Pk6XK4hZ4e3WofGr0txM5ETXYMvApa9oOGkfa9VkDlpKvTZNw/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDg456mLm85FYR06eO5WBwSDkoE_zi9FJPqh4wdQyPtGPxAifUw60c4urP0f0x-YU_6G8nYJ-6aV-EvKSn_mDRnnfzi5Pk6XK4hZ4e3WofGr0txM5ETXYMvApa9oOGkfa9VkDlpKvTZNw/s1600/007.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>I picked up a new canvas yesterday. <br />
It's big - 30 x 40 inches. It's white. And it's scary. I know I can manipulate paint. I know I can fill it with an interesting image. I've worked through the process thousands of times. But it's always hard to get started.<br />
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I was reading a book today by <a href="http://austinkleon.com/">Austin Kleon</a> called "Show Your Work." In it he explains simple steps artists can take to becoming more visible. One step was to "take people behind the scenes," to help them understand the creative process. "When a painter talks about her 'work,' she could be talking about two different things: There's the <i>artwork</i>, the finished piece, framed and hung on a gallery wall, and there's the <i>art work</i>, all the day-to-day stuff that goes on behind the scenes in her studio: looking for inspiration, getting an idea, applying oil to a canvas, etc. There's 'painting,' the noun, and there's 'painting' the verb. As in all kinds of work there is a distinction between the painter's <i>process</i>, and the <i>products</i> of her process."<br />
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I have always been and always will be a process based artist. I paint intuitively. I let the colors blend and form into images as I continue to add layers to the surface. Sometimes I use photographs for inspiration, but most of the time I just let the painting tell me where it's going. My hands are inspired by the memories I have. I get lost in the process and hours go by with lightening speed. But sometimes I get stopped at a traffic light and get confused about which way to go. So I'll take a break and revisit the canvas with fresh eyes.<br />
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I recently accepted a commission to create a painting about the first moment you get to the beach. I love the ocean and have lots of experience with this subject matter. So I'm going to tame that blank canvas and bend it to my will. I'll document the process and will enjoy your feedback.<br />
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I started by spraying down my canvas with water.<br />
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I then applied cadmium yellow and yellow ochre both of which were diluted with matte medium and a little water.<br />
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I sketched in a horizon line and boardwalk with pthalo blue. I don't usually center my compositions but this one called for it.<br />
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I then sprayed the surface with water to loosen up the lines.<br />
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I'll let it dry for now and let the painting tell me what do do next.<br />
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<br />
"A lot of people are so used to just seeing the outcome of work. They never see the side of the work you go through to produce the outcome." -Michael Jackson<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(as quoted by Austin Kleon)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-53526470589674031742014-08-18T18:13:00.001-07:002014-08-18T18:13:13.926-07:00One Hundred & Eighty DaysEvery teacher knows the meaning of 180 days. Give or take a few, this is the number of days in a traditional school year. In August this seems like an unattainable number. In January it's still a long way off. But come April the end is near. I always try to start off the school year with a positive approach, hoping to keep my enthusiasm high. Yet I tend to fall into a sad state around day 30 knowing I've got a long way to go. So this year I'm going to take a different tack. I'm going to celebrate each school day as I check it off by reflecting on the good things I experience. And I'm going to record my journey in a little journal I'm calling "One Hundred & Eighty Days." I admit, I borrowed the title from my friend Julie. She can have it back when she writes her book. I don't think she'll mind.<br />
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This week I'll be demonstrating the process for creating your own planner. So gather some supplies and get ready to create. I found this little day planner in the dollar bin at Target. It's an academic calendar so it goes from August to August. But you could use any inexpensive day planner.<br />
<br />
Suggested Supplies:<br />
- small day planner<br />
- acrylic or craft paint - just a couple of your favorite colors<br />
- brushes<br />
- glue<br />
- washi or small duck tape rolls in one color or a variety<br />
- stamps and a stamp pad if you have any<br />
- markers<br />
- magazines<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-59770811274320758412014-08-02T08:24:00.000-07:002014-08-02T08:24:28.859-07:00The beach is my porch<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1slsZl0B1BXrUGCOKBhNL56LJ5NVD1wfakzRqqTLpOIiDaEBYHJEzJ1MrFseacwSUfzp3dLpdg36E1a6ZtyoRG09PpG0SHFIuZAv7ycSJOEee9ZEqfy43lqZvRTOpv5WS1HTBu81D2Y/s640/blogger-image-1508765285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1slsZl0B1BXrUGCOKBhNL56LJ5NVD1wfakzRqqTLpOIiDaEBYHJEzJ1MrFseacwSUfzp3dLpdg36E1a6ZtyoRG09PpG0SHFIuZAv7ycSJOEee9ZEqfy43lqZvRTOpv5WS1HTBu81D2Y/s640/blogger-image-1508765285.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee in my bunny mug, a fresh baked scone from<br />the farmers' market on a sunny morning.</td></tr>
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This has been a summer filled with tasks. The days have been filled with moving trucks, clearing out storage spaces, a yard sale, donating furnishings, household repairs, and lots of gardening. When I woke up yesterday I was a little sad when realized it was August 1st. Not just because my summer was quickly coming to an end, but because I haven't had the chance to stick even one toe in the ocean. So instead of breezes by the shore I'm going to enjoy taking mini breaks in and around my home.<br />
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I love my house in Fredericksburg. It's long over due for a good painting, needs the foundation fixed, requires some rewiring and new plumbing, but it's one of my favorite places to be. No matter how long I leave it alone it welcomes me home. Sometimes it's not so welcoming with a flooded basement or broken pipes, but I'm always calmer when I'm here. Kind of the way I feel when my toes are in the ocean.<br />
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Last night my good friend Cheryl came over for a quiet evening of journalling on my porch. She'd asked me to teach her my method so I pulled out supplies, plugged in the party lights and we began to create. I didn't stop to take any pictures because we were too absorbed in our art and a superb conversation. By the time she went home I felt the wonderful calm which comes over me whenever I create art. Especially when it happens on my porch.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My quiet space indoors</td></tr>
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So, while I miss not having a beach vacation this year, I do feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the fall. It will be our last year in Texas and my husband is counting down the days until his retirement. We're both looking forward to being back in our sweet, although a bit rundown, house. And then we'll take a long overdue trip to the beach.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a little garden cleanup</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">journal page 8/1/14</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-2760773128262164002014-07-04T12:10:00.002-07:002014-07-04T12:10:49.764-07:00AMERICA!<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">HAPPY 4TH OF JULY</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><i>FREEDOM!</i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="color: red;"><i>A little patriotic post - enjoy!</i></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span>
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">America the Beautiful</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">words by Katharine Lee Bates</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">melody by Samuel Ward</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">O beautiful for spacious skies, </span></i><i style="color: red;">f</i><i style="color: red;">or amber waves of grain.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">For purple mountain majesties </span></i><i style="color: red;">a</i><i style="color: red;">bove the fruited plain!</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">America! America! </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">God shed his grace on thee</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">And crown thy good with brotherhood</span></i></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><i>Remembering 9/11 14 x 22</i><br />
Mixed Media on paper <br />
2013</td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: red;">From sea to shining sea</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>O beautiful for pilgrim feet </i><i>whose stern impassioned stress.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>A thoroughfare of freedom beat a</i><i>cross the wilderness.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">America! America</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">God mend thine every flaw,</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">Confirm they soul in self-control,</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">Thy liberty in law.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>O beautiful for heroes proved i</i><i>n liberating strife,</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>Who more than self their country loved, a</i><i>nd mercy more than life.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">America! America!</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">May God thy gold refine</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">Till all success be nobleness </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">And every gain divine.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>O beautiful for patriot dream </i><i>that sees beyond the years.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>Thine alabaster cities gleam </i><i>undimmed by human tears.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">America! America!</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">God shed his grace on thee,</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">And crown thy good with brotherhood</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red;">From sea to shining sea.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-66710289262851587852014-06-23T04:40:00.001-07:002014-06-23T04:40:17.713-07:00Hello Monday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJraFhZQiwBr8k7bESt9mzhv_P0BRz8rp_VUT0Pk9SwAZyCVMNG194fMdbbfYzGzp49N7_v4S1j1EWF1riYoSKYdUubOFrS3fB6BH2PglshfMOQOKpOqOqAj0jo_fOHHlSUjiSI_o-5Q/s1600/IMG_1821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJraFhZQiwBr8k7bESt9mzhv_P0BRz8rp_VUT0Pk9SwAZyCVMNG194fMdbbfYzGzp49N7_v4S1j1EWF1riYoSKYdUubOFrS3fB6BH2PglshfMOQOKpOqOqAj0jo_fOHHlSUjiSI_o-5Q/s1600/IMG_1821.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a>For those of us in the teaching profession we look forward to Mondays towards the end of June. Because instead of getting bonuses in the form of pay, we get June, July and August. While we don't get a full 90 days off, most of us get between 8-9 weeks. When I went to bed last night I didn't set my alarm, no need. I was going to sleep until the sun was fully in the sky. But. . . . at 5:00am my eyes were wide open and my body was restless.<br />
<br />
So I got up and greeted the sunshine on my back porch, one of my favorite places on earth. With a cup of coffee and a pillow under my feet I started my day making a list of all I wanted to accomplish during my visit home. It's a long list with lots of household chores, more traveling and many fun events. But for now I think I'll have another cup of coffee.<br />
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Happy Summer Monday to all my teacher friends. Sorry the rest of you have to go to work!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancake as big as my head</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art Spark #11<br />Battlefield Restaurant, Fredericksburg, VA</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-49136993240466602662014-06-22T04:51:00.002-07:002014-06-22T04:51:21.562-07:00I made it.The trip was long, but entertaining looking for places to abandon little Art Sparks along the way. Sometimes I'd forget and make my husband stop at the last minute, but I did hit every state! He is such a patient man.<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFPTriAbWdRiK8m_wy3-_37dMI1jAn-5uw1y7BbCDzkamCO5O4IMytQNxeGldL4-sUeH9BurJLJs_BjHKnH3K8wcchD6NJNVJbnEM9pyr_1XfPVxyW_fkgb2dtbHC-vDtbXTnccsn_Xo/s1600/IMG_1798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFPTriAbWdRiK8m_wy3-_37dMI1jAn-5uw1y7BbCDzkamCO5O4IMytQNxeGldL4-sUeH9BurJLJs_BjHKnH3K8wcchD6NJNVJbnEM9pyr_1XfPVxyW_fkgb2dtbHC-vDtbXTnccsn_Xo/s1600/IMG_1798.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLz5OKmyLW2mndTlgHlw5muM-wFdnXtaCCWo2QS2y4GGn6bzpv4nVoYETlVnD6sc5zk-irII3TLdECevOl2kuR2DskDfS4TtMygXrFgYXavKoMg3pb4xTlMiEiDLHldvKh00Ng-O8yI8/s1600/IMG_1801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdLz5OKmyLW2mndTlgHlw5muM-wFdnXtaCCWo2QS2y4GGn6bzpv4nVoYETlVnD6sc5zk-irII3TLdECevOl2kuR2DskDfS4TtMygXrFgYXavKoMg3pb4xTlMiEiDLHldvKh00Ng-O8yI8/s1600/IMG_1801.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp99C0PRJyr-FS3s9-dmPYSmdGVtGHBj2cFdO5flGOS7WrORqDKIqs6dyDVUX4ybdMTYIw7ve8jiseD7lAgn6oCm8x1WceMPN0zzuL4OYilmu4Sv3b1IboXPTmU3yl9TcbS_3jjowVP50/s1600/IMG_1803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp99C0PRJyr-FS3s9-dmPYSmdGVtGHBj2cFdO5flGOS7WrORqDKIqs6dyDVUX4ybdMTYIw7ve8jiseD7lAgn6oCm8x1WceMPN0zzuL4OYilmu4Sv3b1IboXPTmU3yl9TcbS_3jjowVP50/s1600/IMG_1803.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a>Crawdaddy's in Madisonville, LA. Yummy shrimp Po'Boy for dinner.<br />
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Found this pay phone somewhere in Mississippi. I can't remember the last time I actually used one of these!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTvGV8MHvJmhAQz-IvC_gun3gvAQZgUnTU3hvWl9VFbyrWfckwlibRmW_3uL4WKv-JMBUatZYz-bkoSEWk6RtTaj1KjY4EXOwCh-6_dDlRbdMOpXF6zsWkfYs6qPhheJ6IkBMRFYVtDKg/s1600/IMG_1806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTvGV8MHvJmhAQz-IvC_gun3gvAQZgUnTU3hvWl9VFbyrWfckwlibRmW_3uL4WKv-JMBUatZYz-bkoSEWk6RtTaj1KjY4EXOwCh-6_dDlRbdMOpXF6zsWkfYs6qPhheJ6IkBMRFYVtDKg/s1600/IMG_1806.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a>If you're ever driving through Alabama and see the sign for Priester's Pecans you have to stop! Lots of free samples and you'll leave with a bag full of deliciousness!<br />
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At a truck stop in Georgia I pulled out the first card I touched and thought this was the perfect spot for it. I love the idea of both an antifreeze and coolant! Just the thing for a remodeled life!</div>
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We stopped for the night in Anderson, SC and the closest restaurant was one of my husband's favorites. I let him pick the Art Spark to be abandoned. He claims he loves the place because the beer is cold and the wings are hot!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYG5YxzEEx9PU2O81w-1YDTH8cNu2SfSPkHAjCx8Qe8PCnWCwNWR6eMcomhP1TU6vC7eYrlfNhN2eM0gtqgqXDSCQwInLTbFyeojuJOauW8IwG1Lx9z-PFTAJExZd0-Z8hNomWCL_OIqY/s1600/IMG_1810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYG5YxzEEx9PU2O81w-1YDTH8cNu2SfSPkHAjCx8Qe8PCnWCwNWR6eMcomhP1TU6vC7eYrlfNhN2eM0gtqgqXDSCQwInLTbFyeojuJOauW8IwG1Lx9z-PFTAJExZd0-Z8hNomWCL_OIqY/s1600/IMG_1810.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a>I just love this giant peach - It always makes me laugh. Does anyone else think it looks like a </div>
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Carolina Blue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-iq8VzVnXL4siXjGkLXAR1HIH3RhGd6O07ik4hhEwwrqxIL7HHZL0bln3jBjq-kx5QWI5_ylbMTA7WHyIkGZAu4hpEe6EYhujfSLauDCDPiaiUyt7lrqiasdYrK2ZBulYmLbPi8qZPx4/s1600/IMG_1812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-iq8VzVnXL4siXjGkLXAR1HIH3RhGd6O07ik4hhEwwrqxIL7HHZL0bln3jBjq-kx5QWI5_ylbMTA7WHyIkGZAu4hpEe6EYhujfSLauDCDPiaiUyt7lrqiasdYrK2ZBulYmLbPi8qZPx4/s1600/IMG_1812.JPG" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNagPN1ZVZq8m56fcp4Hs1od_OXJghTvt2kCwJUwTKPdKL3ZQQv5MoFsoY-T0oLpX5-A58gxKtQNqZfJwgNM3wDYq4fBQf-NJ1tqPi7p5brzZC1Fo9F7hB2PH9ouzWX5KTurbXRWPRAdU/s1600/IMG_1813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNagPN1ZVZq8m56fcp4Hs1od_OXJghTvt2kCwJUwTKPdKL3ZQQv5MoFsoY-T0oLpX5-A58gxKtQNqZfJwgNM3wDYq4fBQf-NJ1tqPi7p5brzZC1Fo9F7hB2PH9ouzWX5KTurbXRWPRAdU/s1600/IMG_1813.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a>Finally close to home. I may be partial, but Virginia really does have the best rest area in the country.</div>
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I hope all my traveling Art Sparks have brought smiles to their new owners' faces. I have many more places to go over the next few weeks and plenty of pieces to abandon. I may not have time to make a large, important work of art right now. But I can create and release little gems here and there.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-80857298994082575582014-06-18T19:16:00.001-07:002014-06-19T05:58:12.900-07:00Think<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art Spark Drop #3<br />
Berrytown Produce, Hammond, LA</td></tr>
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I was shopping for crawfish bread and produce when I remembered I needed to make a drop. I reached into my purse and pulled out the first Art Spark I touched and quickly placed in the bin next to me. The bin happened to be full of bright orange sweet potatoes, some loose and some bagged. This random placement was so appropriate for my day. Some things need to be bagged up and some need to be free!<br />
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I'm in the process of helping my husband's aunt go through all of her possessions. A few items will go with Aunt Ro to help decorate her little room to make it feel more like home. Other items have been carefully packed and will soon be on their way to family members. And then there are the things to be donated. It's been hard going through all of her prized possessions. I have to keep reminding myself to stop and think about how I will feel when I have to do the same thing. Value is not determined by of the individual item. Instead it's the symbolism of the treasured keepsake because, as I've been reminded, everything has a story.<br />
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I haven't been looking forward to this packing chore. I'm tired of moving and we've been trying to get Aunt Ro's house clear for a while now. But today I've realized this chore was really a gift. I've learned so many great lessons:<br />
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1. The simplest items can bring great joy to another person.<br />
2. Dropping donations off at a charity is inspiring knowing your possessions will be given new life.<br />
3. Never let you closet get too full.<br />
4. If someone wants to give you one of their possessions accept it with gratitude.<br />
5. Helping a loved one clean out their home is more fun when they're present to tell you the stories.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-44266937149694281652014-06-17T21:19:00.003-07:002014-06-17T21:20:34.053-07:00On the road again.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg095P2i2YO4Ptvhn9lrQdOsKTqz4IOc9g5AimQFqKKTzGU96nVujq9DwZ36__u21zyVVzvc-_jY3Bygh6icIMIwRc4PoIzz2cLp1CjeREhuk-Ex6Jau0DvKeNMOUQ_vqZOQohceM3dZcc/s640/blogger-image--953200389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg095P2i2YO4Ptvhn9lrQdOsKTqz4IOc9g5AimQFqKKTzGU96nVujq9DwZ36__u21zyVVzvc-_jY3Bygh6icIMIwRc4PoIzz2cLp1CjeREhuk-Ex6Jau0DvKeNMOUQ_vqZOQohceM3dZcc/s320/blogger-image--953200389.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art Spark Drop #1 <br />
Crawdaddy's, near Orange, TX</td></tr>
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I never sleep well the night before a trip. I toss and turn, knowing I have to get up early to complete all of my checklist. I've made this long trip from Houston, TX to Fredericksburg, VA many, many times. It's about 23 hours total drive time and I usually have two overnight stops. I take other breaks along the way and I'm very picky about the restrooms I'll use. Several years ago I discovered Crawdaddy's. It's become one of my traditional stops because it's conveniently located about the time Dasher and I need a break. The restrooms are clean and beautifully decorated. I left my first Art Spark there, right under the mirror. I took Dasher for a walk and I picked up a delicious hamburger, the best in Texas according to the sign.<br />
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Louisiana Welcome Center</td></tr>
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Another one of my traveling traditions is to stop at each state's welcome center. I don't stop at these for the restrooms, I stop for the maps. I love collecting these. I use them in art projects all the time. I tear them for collages, use them in papier mache, and turn them into books. I also collect them because I fear one day they'll be obsolete. With GPS technology available in so many forms who really uses actually maps for navigation? I don't. As soon as I get in my car I type in my destination because I am severely directionally challenged. Dasher likes these stops too - the dog walking areas are much better than random gas stations.<br />
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I've never been very good at reading maps, but I love looking at them. The multicolored tangle of roads, names of cities, bodies of water and other landmarks create beautiful patterns on the paper. I also reminisce about places I've been and dream about new destinations. I'll keep building my stockpile of maps until they stop handing them out. And they'll keep turning up in my art.<br />
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I'm in Hammond, LA for a couple of days then heading northeast on Friday. I'm looking forward to collecting more maps and leaving art behind.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-41961676538979299152014-06-16T12:33:00.000-07:002014-06-16T12:33:30.983-07:00Traveling Art Sparks<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLNa158tuI6anUMZWoE3W7ou-BokAaIOS8yLvhaEjJLiEaSJQC4DO_fkHLh9c28l8WryUQXd-K-OyureMCTR-dZeXVqEz2d87JWtnC9qFgmuFa3utNLU8WBtUlNek-vaYI7kAKVXHSkY/s1600/IMG_1793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLNa158tuI6anUMZWoE3W7ou-BokAaIOS8yLvhaEjJLiEaSJQC4DO_fkHLh9c28l8WryUQXd-K-OyureMCTR-dZeXVqEz2d87JWtnC9qFgmuFa3utNLU8WBtUlNek-vaYI7kAKVXHSkY/s1600/IMG_1793.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a>I'm leaving tomorrow for my summer trip back to my hometown, Fredericksburg, VA. It's a long drive with lots of stops along the way. Once I get there I have a full agenda with trips to Maryland, Washington, D.C., North Carolina, South Carolina, in addition to several cities in Virginia. As I was packing up art supplies I came across about 50 artist trading cards I'd created during workshops I taught. Some were complete, some were in need of a few details and others were barely begun. So I took a break from packing and began to finish these little gems. And then it hit me - why not leave these little pieces of art all along my journey?<br />
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I was recently introduced to the concept of abandoning art. I don't mean giving up the creation or enjoyment of art. Instead it's the practice of creating small pieces and leaving them for someone to find. A gift of art left for a complete stanger. These <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArtAbandonment/">art abandoment</a>s are happening all over the place and the movement seems to be growing.Starting tomorrow I'll begin to leave my Art Sparks for stangers to find. Some will ignore them, some will trash them, but hopefully some will treasure them. <br />
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I'll post Art Spark drops on my blog, Twitter and Facebook. Serendipity will connect my art with other people and I look forward to getting feedback. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-53390359805318654942014-06-09T15:18:00.000-07:002014-06-09T15:18:06.610-07:00I can do this.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"<i>Every little thing's gonna be alright." - - Bob Marley</i></span></div>
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I'm in the process of writing a book. It's not going to be the next "Great American Novel," although I'd love to write one. It's a non-fiction book about how to use creativity to improve your life. I'm not writing alone, I'm working with my wonderful (and very creative) business partner Hobby. Both of us have other jobs, I'm a teacher, she's a graphic designer and we're often frustrated about the lack of time we have to work on our project. Today was the first official day of summer break and I had big plans. I was going to finish editing pages. But. . . .<br />
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The day started off early with a 4:30 am "butt dial" from my insomniac sister. So I got up and piddled away a couple of hours on emails and social media. I got in my car to drive to the park for my run only to get stuck in commuter traffic. After completing my run, driving home, showering, and eating it was almost noon! Where did the morning go? Looking back I can see I was using procrastination as a self defense strategy.<br />
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I opened my computer and was ready to dig in when I realized Hobby and I weren't working from the same copy of the book. Ugh! She'd done an amazing amount of work on the layout, but I hadn't given her the latest version of the text! Being a relative computer knuckle head I still have trouble understanding where and how I'm saving and sharing files. But my ever patient partner says "don't worry, it's easy to fix." She's on vacation this week and I refuse to let her come back to unfinished pages. Her job now is to work on illustrations.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzYA8VjoOBdCUKzaBg-k2avotYVYcph8MbES3_rXHKQM_cwBjaW3RdvY1lFmoESIC8KZo8Wk5afUOTGIpBzhkLCo178GAXn1p0F991UOE5PH3t9dV-N3WbhzsOKoOWxNRfuvc4gqqe3k/s1600/IMG_1715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHzYA8VjoOBdCUKzaBg-k2avotYVYcph8MbES3_rXHKQM_cwBjaW3RdvY1lFmoESIC8KZo8Wk5afUOTGIpBzhkLCo178GAXn1p0F991UOE5PH3t9dV-N3WbhzsOKoOWxNRfuvc4gqqe3k/s1600/IMG_1715.JPG" height="271" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Listen" 9 x 12 Ink on paper</td></tr>
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Like many people I sometimes let negative self talk derail me. I lose sight of my goals and become mired in my own shortcomings and limitations. But it's time to STOP!! So I typed, cried, struggled and eventually, started winning. I lost track of time and soon the clock showed 5:00 pm, my self imposed quitting time. I am tired but proud. I perservered. I started figuring some of the computer things out. I can do this. I just have to listen to my own advice.<br />
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I didn't finish editing all of the pages, but I made a good sized dent in the project. I no longer feel like I can't do it and I don't feel paralyzed by doubt. Procrastination will not distract me anymore.<br />
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Tomorrow . . . I'll finish the editing. I CAN DO THIS!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-81171530617509611262014-06-08T05:50:00.000-07:002014-06-08T05:55:00.888-07:00Happy Anniversary Pete & SarahA year ago today my son, Peter, married the love of his life, Sarah. We spent a week Nags Head, NC preparing and celebrating with family and friends. There were some glitches along the way, but honestly those are the blurriest memories. Here's a list of my fondest rememberances from the day:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYx6xkU40_0fkKlYQ85tHtEe84GFEg27lH_fX6PgaRStm6KBikxqonVSE2U1XfaST1U7cW8ciiSH9cgIRlwWL_75SYbclLhoko1zAWQUOYFiBVcrYg2ygihig8xoUXeL0iEJunDEPgPg/s1600/IMG_1670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtYx6xkU40_0fkKlYQ85tHtEe84GFEg27lH_fX6PgaRStm6KBikxqonVSE2U1XfaST1U7cW8ciiSH9cgIRlwWL_75SYbclLhoko1zAWQUOYFiBVcrYg2ygihig8xoUXeL0iEJunDEPgPg/s1600/IMG_1670.jpg" height="400" width="216" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Wedding Day Sunrise"<br />
9 x 16 Acrylic on Canvas</td></tr>
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<li>The beautiful sunrise as I walked on the beach offering up my prayers for the day</li>
<li>Giggling at the hairdressers with MOB and the bridesmaids</li>
<li>Walking up to the inn and seeing the beautiful decorations just as Sarah and her mom had planned</li>
<li>Spending a few moments alone with Peter</li>
<li>Visiting Sarah as she dressed, experiencing her excitment</li>
<li>The hot bus ride to the church full of laughter</li>
<li>Preparing for the ceremony- adjusting ties and picking lint off the groomsmen</li>
<li>The moment Joe and I walked into the church feeling the love of all who were present</li>
<li>The look on Peter's face when Sarah walked down the aisle - the definition of bliss</li>
<li>The whole ceremony viewed through my happy tears</li>
<li>The utter chaos of picture taking - getting my family together was like herding cats</li>
<li>Entering the reception tent full of music, laughter and surprisingly very little ice</li>
<li>The processional dance of the bridal party</li>
<li>Peter and Sarah's first dance to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oH6mw2Rc3DQ">"La Mer"</a></li>
<li>Meeting, greeting, hugging & kissing as many guests as I could</li>
<li>The toasts - Eric stole the show! "Just look at her," he kept saying as he talked about his new sister.</li>
<li>Dancing, dancing, dancing. I remember the floor was overflowing during <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXVSakSzkIw">"Wagon Wheel"</a></li>
<li>Peter's face when Sarah returned from changing into her going away outfit. It was like he'd just gotten the best gift ever!</li>
<li>The last dance <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Red3R17FlUQ">"Sara(h) Smile"</a>. I cried through the whole song.</li>
<li>The bride and groom leaving to a pelting of glow sticks.</li>
<li>Returning to the house finding Peter and Sarah there - So I got one more hug before I dropped them at The Lucky 12.</li>
<li>Then the day after full of stories and laughter.</li>
<li>I know there are more memories, but my cup is already running over! I didn't even cover the rest of the week.</li>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67HSQIjo3vhfWtD7VQVuDBA5DyabmANhSTZBvHsoBCd8qgpRJqI-6RuM8BMDD_Q2-fUU04s6W0k0cOKXGEjGf1znOXRmIYXYkffA4VJ_UxzaWUTlYoyxYJbIWo-ppbMnwD_cYydJKp5w/s1600/IMG_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67HSQIjo3vhfWtD7VQVuDBA5DyabmANhSTZBvHsoBCd8qgpRJqI-6RuM8BMDD_Q2-fUU04s6W0k0cOKXGEjGf1znOXRmIYXYkffA4VJ_UxzaWUTlYoyxYJbIWo-ppbMnwD_cYydJKp5w/s1600/IMG_0100.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by<a href="http://www.genevievestewart.com/"> Genevieve Stewart</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMeS1GaGVhWUR1UB3VoLc0pX1y3KmU8YVrbBDolvH7wMsAqkOHfrsjBpiV0QkcNWPSj9e64cNFQ8EY97ANlILL3i87smdSDJNeRGu9wZC9Fg1QBwO8rPJZooWBs6EB_LLw3opK4jiNc0/s1600/IMG_0088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzMeS1GaGVhWUR1UB3VoLc0pX1y3KmU8YVrbBDolvH7wMsAqkOHfrsjBpiV0QkcNWPSj9e64cNFQ8EY97ANlILL3i87smdSDJNeRGu9wZC9Fg1QBwO8rPJZooWBs6EB_LLw3opK4jiNc0/s1600/IMG_0088.JPG" height="200" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <br />
<a href="http://www.genevievestewart.com/">Genevieve Stewart</a></td></tr>
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Happiness is remembering my little boy married the girl of his dreams.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkHHnYrR1zVpScjEecqcSEFMrEV4oEDCX_P9-b49kPSzMZfekFYAKDuQj2E17E3MAozs83OMHIKLgzF6OE1zVMgiR3D10iocUTYhbDDlN6Kv8IsG2CLEizBbgs9ZBULzQZfZT6EeHZzA/s1600/IMG_0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkHHnYrR1zVpScjEecqcSEFMrEV4oEDCX_P9-b49kPSzMZfekFYAKDuQj2E17E3MAozs83OMHIKLgzF6OE1zVMgiR3D10iocUTYhbDDlN6Kv8IsG2CLEizBbgs9ZBULzQZfZT6EeHZzA/s1600/IMG_0093.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.genevievestewart.com/">Genevie Stewart</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy First Anniversary Sarah and Peter!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-10048387470150628262014-06-07T15:43:00.001-07:002014-06-07T15:43:19.078-07:00365 Days<br />
Today I start the count down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLDatVRR3o2esxcaF2Ah6WAB6J_SAW4umVn9xGYjpou48ih0Ja1gJrHoJwSw6mMMSCN5kS0M2Mmdbop2uFqrkG2MpZREZeMANx0xYrjP08QuNRB7WHEjoYczMijDAr5Kd3cogrgztlWM/s1600/IMG_1486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLDatVRR3o2esxcaF2Ah6WAB6J_SAW4umVn9xGYjpou48ih0Ja1gJrHoJwSw6mMMSCN5kS0M2Mmdbop2uFqrkG2MpZREZeMANx0xYrjP08QuNRB7WHEjoYczMijDAr5Kd3cogrgztlWM/s1600/IMG_1486.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTRkk0pSEUjYF8CmuWR8H4UwpbTTHQZ-2yq8D4uymWUmZoVyjxDG-QRcJWMM0eMyENmyrftDHJLPFGCdNl4bZd8IJMJiwuznmaWV9X2_PiYtBCTl70C_4SMkNg64GakLZ3HmmTxXwuyc/s1600/IMG_0800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTRkk0pSEUjYF8CmuWR8H4UwpbTTHQZ-2yq8D4uymWUmZoVyjxDG-QRcJWMM0eMyENmyrftDHJLPFGCdNl4bZd8IJMJiwuznmaWV9X2_PiYtBCTl70C_4SMkNg64GakLZ3HmmTxXwuyc/s1600/IMG_0800.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>As I've said before living in Texas is a temporary thing for me. My home is in Virginia, as is most of my heart. Both of my children and most of my family are there. Many of my closest friends are on the east coast. Forunatly Joe, my husband, has some family there too. Jobs are keeping us here for a little while longer, but the end is near. <br />
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On June 6th, 2015 I'll be done.<br />
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Many times I've said to myself, "I'll be happier when. . . " You can fill in the blank with just about anything. But so often when I get to the "when" I'm still not happier.<br />
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So it's time to look for some happiness everyday as I count down the days. I'll spend each day working on my dreams for my when. Simple, daily, joyful actions and activites to make the jouney as sweet as the destination.<br />
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I may not find time to post every day, but I will commit to daily happiness actions. I re-discovered the joy I get from daily art creation during my May Journal Project. I'll continue with those and lots of other activities and adventures.<br />
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My Happiness Actions today are:<br />
1. Sleep until I wake up naturally<br />
2. Walk with Dasher the dog<br />
3. Have dinner with Mara, my daughter-in-law's sister.<br />
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364. . . .Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-73654029399872011922014-05-31T13:35:00.000-07:002014-05-31T13:35:27.611-07:00May Journal Project Day 31<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
May Journal Project Day 31</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7A07DaUyUYjV_XPruf_szemGP66nWDqc3fKJZrQQkUrLKsl_1IKwtre9SGbk4aBgZDHIILTbUaV9pp5lD1BTsZEX-kudFd9juoMPTe13ohChsTRSWlDs3-5HNL7QT3mmTeI4UE44zvrs/s1600/Collage+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7A07DaUyUYjV_XPruf_szemGP66nWDqc3fKJZrQQkUrLKsl_1IKwtre9SGbk4aBgZDHIILTbUaV9pp5lD1BTsZEX-kudFd9juoMPTe13ohChsTRSWlDs3-5HNL7QT3mmTeI4UE44zvrs/s1600/Collage+two.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I create these photo collages on the last day of my journal recycling project I am amazed by the amount of art I shared. Some of these journal entries are complete and some are still works in progress. Yet all of them show my love of creating art. I love to use pens, paints, pencils, stamping and collage to bring together words, images and colors. I love to doodle and dream. And I love to inspire others.</div>
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While my May Journal Project is complete, I'm not done. I plan on continuing to rework more and more pages and will share them often on my blog. With summer break beginning at the end next week my schedule becomes very different. I'll be on the road a lot heading to and from Virginia with many stops along the way. I'll carry my journals and supplies with me so I can continue to create everyday.</div>
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Thanks for following my blog this month. I hope you'll consider starting your own art journal. If you happen to be in Fredericksburg, VA this summer let me know. I'm going to have art journal workshops as often as I can!</div>
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<br /><br /><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-71545911240659903492014-05-30T11:23:00.003-07:002014-05-30T11:23:28.112-07:00Five Days to FreedomMay Journal Project Day 30<br />
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Teachers look forward to the end of the school year as much as the students. We count down the days until summer, sometimes from the first day of school. If you ask some teachers why they chose this profession they'd tell you, "June, July & August." Last night at dinner I was telling my husband about my stressful day. He patiently listened and then said, "you're like this every May. Don't worry, it'll all be better at the end of next week." And of course he's right.<br />
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I'm looking forward to getting out of my "grown up" shoes and putting on my flip flops. I'll spend my days working on my house, making art, writing my book, teaching workshops, in addition to enjoying my family and friends. <br />
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Time will fly by and I'll be starting my new school year counting down before I know it. But this will be the last time. My husband and I will hopefully be retiring from our careers in Houston and moving back east. We'll start new jobs and a new business. Or maybe I'll miss teaching so much I'll apply for another job.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-a_bfyqtj4ubGao7mDyZDB9884FuuzJq_3baMS9YcChQi5AAL1EuFK2YGTMncdcVHp5sB6NIrp_5QTru7u1WBMo6fdZZYuDSF9QP5YtqxXwzYPinmzonuerlKWakQHHuUPDO7xjcdMQ/s1600/IMG_0893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-a_bfyqtj4ubGao7mDyZDB9884FuuzJq_3baMS9YcChQi5AAL1EuFK2YGTMncdcVHp5sB6NIrp_5QTru7u1WBMo6fdZZYuDSF9QP5YtqxXwzYPinmzonuerlKWakQHHuUPDO7xjcdMQ/s1600/IMG_0893.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Five Days to Freedom" MJP #30</td></tr>
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179 days, 178 days, 177 days ........... 5 days, 4 days, 3 days, 2 days, 1 day ----FREEDOM!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2537275946247111253.post-54880618392863274142014-05-29T18:20:00.004-07:002014-05-29T18:20:36.843-07:00CommitmentMay Journal Project Day 29<br />
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<b>Commitment </b>-<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <i>|kəˈmitmənt| </i>- noun</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>1 </b>the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc.:<i> the company's </i><b><i>commitment to</i></b><i> quality</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">• a pledge or undertaking:<i> I cannot make such a commitment at the moment</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>2 </b>(usu. <b>commitments</b>) an engagement or obligation that restricts freedom of action:<i> business commitments</i> |<i> young people delay major commitments </i><i>including marriage and children</i>.</span></div>
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I'm commited to many things. My husband, children, family and friends. I run/walk a minimum of 3 miles a day, part of my commitment to my health. I'm also commited to art, developing a business and writing a book. Commitment requires discipline. But some days it's tough!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Commitment" MJP 29<br /><br /></td></tr>
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Being committed to this journal project has required me to present some work that's not quite resolved. But I don't want a day to go by this month when I don't post. So here's a work in progress. </div>
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These pages are about how my husband and I met, and how our lives have been transformed. One of our favorite things to do is sit quietly and enjoy a peaceful sunset. </div>
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We're connected and commited - the key to our happiness.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10667248070297765704noreply@blogger.com0