A Touch of Inspiration

Switch and Artist Feature

2009-06-17T23:33:00.004-05:00

Aha! I have switched over to Firefox (which I'm still getting used to) and I am having fewer problems with this blog. Thank you to those who suggested making the change! I feel torn now because I love this blog but am also enjoying blogging at the one I started when this one was giving me trouble: http://blog.sweetsoliloquies.com.

My artist feature of the amazingly talented Camille Boggs appears Thursday, June 18th (tomorrow) and I hope you'll stop by and check it out: http://www.textyladies.com/?p=406. I just know you'll love her work like I do!

I'll be back here in the next day or two to properly thank Lamont for gifting me with the "Queen of All Things Awe-Summ" award! Lamont, you're the best!

New Blog

2009-05-31T22:39:00.002-05:00

I am posting today at Sweet Soliloquies, the new blog I'm putting together to combine several of my blogs. How many does a girl really need? With all the issues I've been having here, I thought it prudent to set something else up.

I plan to keep this blog going but for now, until I post something new here, you will find me at blog dot sweetsoliloquies dot com. I have several more blog links to add and some of the pages are not completed yet but they should be soon.

I hope to see you there!

Wishcasting Wednesday - Frivolity

2009-05-27T21:57:00.007-05:00

It's Wishcasting Wednesday again and our inspirational host Jamie Ridler asks this question:

What frivolous treat do you wish for?

I would just love, love, LOVE to participate in a weekend workshop at:

Valley Ridge Retreat & Conference Center

Valley Ridge Art Studio

Take a look at some of these workshops!

Story Booklace: an Intensive Three Day Journey into the Magic World of Jewelry Designs I - Instructor: Nina Bagley
The Black Swan and the Lost Key - Instructor: Juliana Coles
Stairway to Heaven I - Instructor: Michelle Ward
Personal Geographies: Mapping Your Life - Instructor: Jill Berry

Spending a weekend with other creative souls being inspired by such tremendously talented people sounds like a dream! Maybe you can meet me there?

(I don't really think this frivolous but it's something I'd love to do!)

Frustration

2009-05-25T20:31:00.005-05:00

I'm having all sorts of trouble with this blog and I'm not sure if this will even get posted. I understand some of you have had trouble commenting here as well. I'm not sure what to do but I'm considering transferring everything to WordPress. My links to all my blogging friends are here at this site and I've had difficulty getting to them when I'm bumped off this blog without warning. There have been so many issues here and I don't know if it is Blogger or something I've done with or added to my site. Maybe a little of both.

Having these issues with my blog has had a bright side in that it forced me to step away after getting frustrated enough and I think I needed that down time. I've known for some time but have finally admitted to myself that I must cut back a bit, participate in only a few memes, not be so obsessed with everything to do with this blog. It has become unhealthy and I've spent too much time at all these different blogs I've started. A Touch of Inspiration has become so special to me because I have met so many beautiful people through it. I will keep this blog (here at Blogger or transferred somewhere else) but I'm going to close up some of the newer blogs I've started. I think two blogs should be enough in addition to participating in my group blog, Texty Ladies. I've I'm going to write that novel or book of poetry (or any of the many projects I'd like to work on) I've got to make the time for it.

Hopefully, these words will post. If I decide to transfer this blog elsewhere, I'll definitely let you know where.

I hope everyone has had a fantastic Memorial Day and weekend! See you tomorrow or Wednesday for more wishcasting!

Jamie Ridler asked me...

2009-05-21T23:38:00.002-05:00

Jamie Ridler of Jamie Ridler Studios and Starshyne Productions was kind enough to answer my request that she interview for this awesome interview meme. After losing my initial answers, I've finally answered them again and am sharing them with you here. WARNING: This gets a bit lengthy so hugs and kisses if you make it to the end!

THE INTERVIEW RULES

* leave me a comment with your email address saying: “interview me”

* I will e-mail you five questions of my choice

* you can then answer the questions on your blog {with a link back to my blog}

* you should also post these rules, along with an offer to interview anyone else who emails you, wanting to be interviewed

* anyone who asks to be interviewed should be sent 5 questions to answer on their blog

* it would be nice if the questions were individualized for each blogger.

MY QUESTIONS FROM JAMIE

1. What were you like in high school?

I should have applied myself more in high school. I was placed in a high potential/gifted student program the year of its inception. We were able to choose a career we were interested in and the school would team us up with a mentor in that field. I chose journalism and was able to tag along with a journalist during their interview of a Minnesota State Senator. It was exciting and I had visions of myself as an edgy and hip Barbara Walters. A week later, I was told the journalist was not able to continue the mentorship so I needed to choose another field of interest. I chose child psychology and was able to work with kids with learning disabilities. I just loved those kids and it was a rewarding experience but I did not continue with more training in this area.

As I look back now, I see an uncertain teenage girl who was more concerned in becoming what others wanted than in exploring what she (I) wanted. I was the girl who got along with everyone but felt I belonged nowhere. I went to the parties but found them shallow and disappointing. I was fortunate enough to have a few true friends and I’m happy to report we still keep in touch today. Our class was apathetic and being a cheerleader or belonging to a group was SO uncool. Maybe that’s why I’m a joiner today. Making up for lost ground. I did belong to the Choir for two years and the school newspaper my senior year. The seniors were asked to state their ambition in life which appeared in our yearbook. Mine said: “To live in Jamaica in a beach house and write science fiction novels. Also, to become a psychologist.“ Hmmm…what happened there?

2. What do you love about the woman you’ve become?

While I’m trying to be more trusting, I’m basically an optimistic person and look for the best in others. I like that I can usually read people and situations fairly accurately, but as any true Libran would do, I play out the “but what ifs” in my head and do not pass judgment.

I’ve been through some difficult times over the last 44 years but they’ve only served to make me stronger. I explore this further in my answer to Question 5.

It is important to me that I was able to break free from destructive relationship patterns and give myself permission to accept a truly good and loving man, my husband.

3. On National Guilty Pleasure Day, what would you be doing?

I’d probably watch Clerks, Sandra Dee movies (The Reluctant Debutante!), the Top 100 80’s Songs on VH-1 (Tainted Love by Soft Cell anyone?!) and a host of other lighthearted fare. I’d then break for a lunch of tacos with sour cream, Fritos and M&Ms, and a Butterfinger Blizzard. Next, I’ll run through the Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Angel series while pretending to kick butt in my living room in a pitiful attempt to channel my special powers and work off lunch (as the guilt starts to seep in).

Hmm, maybe I could break out the old Monkees albums, too…

4. How do you get through challenging times?

My husband has called me Warrior Woman because he says when I’m sick, I just battle through it. When something is thrown my way, I’ll usually take it on regardless of what anxieties or fears I might be feeling. Maybe that is because as a single mother for 15 years, I pretty much had no choice but to keep on keepin’ on. It was not easy working full time while caring for a special needs child but I tried not to let that be the focus and we just lived our lives. Maybe having to be strong and positive for my son as we faced different challenges helped me tap into an inner core of strength (or maybe I‘m just stubborn!).

5. What would you say is your personal signature?

Hmmm… This is by far one of the most difficult questions to answer that I’ve ever been asked. Perhaps that is because I don’t know what my personal signature is or should be. While I think I know myself pretty well, I have a difficult time reading how others view me or what I’m doing. I would say that I’m a listener and wary optimist who enjoys encouraging others. My friends and acquaintances tend to seek me out when wanting to hash out a problem and they need a (hopefully) nonjudgmental ear. At least, that is what I’ve been told.

With regard to my writing, I prefer to write efficiently and get my thought across in the fewest amount of words possible. Maybe that is why I struggle with longer projects like novels. It seems overwhelming to whittle so much away and still be left with an acceptable word count. Sheesh, you probably don’t believe that last statement after the way I’ve been rambling here!

As I said, I’m not really sure how to answer this question and would be interested to know what others think my personal signature is.

Want me to interview you? Leave a comment including your email or email me directly and I'll send you 5 questions just for you.

2009-05-21T11:58:00.007-05:00

I hope you'll swing over to Texty Ladies today and try today's prompt. It's easy and fun!

Tomorrow: I'll be answering Jamie Ridler's five questions to me.

It's another crazy day but I plan to catch up with everyone tomorrow and over the weekend. Hugs!

Wishcasting Wednesday - Soul Wishes

2009-05-20T05:39:00.014-05:00

This week our inspiring Wishcasting Hostess Jamie @ Starshyne Productions asks:

What is your highest self wishing for?

What's rumbling in your soul?

What is my highest self wishing for?

I wish to be ever closer to God and know His plan for me. I wish to hear and truly listen when He speaks and I wish to be used as His instrument for the benefit of others. I wish to ease the burdens of others and encourage them in their endeavors. I wish to be more selfless and think of random acts of kindness before the opportunity instead of after it.

What's rumbling in my soul?

I wsh I had more time for writing and drawing and other creative pursuits. With my day job and the commute, I'm away from home for approximately 11 hours per day, then there's supper and errands, laundry and whatever family time we can pull together. I fire up the laptop around 9:30 p.m. and try to get some blogging, commenting, site creation, writing, research and surfing done between bouts of falling asleep with my fingers on the keyboard. Round about 12:30 or 1:00 a.m., I give up the fight, shut down the laptop and shuffle off to bed.

The possibility exists for me to take one day off every other week which would allow me time for the activities I've mentioned but it would require me to either work longer hours the remainder of that week or take a cut in pay. Neither one is a viable option right now unless we can get creative with our finances. I'm not sure I can get any more creative in that area than I already have!

I also wish to take better care of myself and my family by eating more healthy and non-processed food. I wish to get more sleep and pray that my struggles in this area be resolved. I wish to amp up the exercise and also find time to just sit and look out the window and dream.

There's a whole bunch of wishes right there! I pray that all of our wishes come true! :)

Still Kickin'

2009-05-19T10:09:00.002-05:00

I'm still around folks but have had an abundance of tasks to complete so will post as soon as I'm able. I hope you're all doing well!! :)

What?!!

2009-05-15T05:47:00.006-05:00

I could cry. I've started typing my longer posts in a Word document before inserting into my blog because I've lost far too many what I'm sure were absolutely brilliant words (ha!) to that darn sneaky blogmonster! Well, I smugly followed this procedure with my answers to Jamie Ridler's five question interview only to discover my document has vanished! Grrrrr!!! How could this happen?!

I do not have the heart to recreate my answers this morning so I'll do so later and post them this weekend. Sigh...

Update

2009-05-14T08:53:00.005-05:00

It's a crazy busy day! I'll post later this evening when the world quiets down..... I hope!

In the meantime, I've posted the prompt for Poetry Play Thursday over at Texty Ladies. If you're game, stop on over and have a look-see. :)

Have a bright, shiny day friends and I'll catch up with you tonight!

(The logo above is one I created for Texty Ladies.)

Wishcasting Wednesday - Connection

2009-05-12T23:45:00.015-05:00

Super cool funky chick and Wishcasting hostess Jamie asks this week:

Who do you wish to connect to?

I wish to connect with my son in a more meaningful way that will ease his anxiety and release his negative self-talk and self-image. He is intelligent, kind, handsome, talented and a complete stitch(!) and I pray that he develops a true self-love.

I wish to have a deeper connection with the creative and fearless side of me. She and I are getting closer as I'm able to start a few projects and make a few messes BUT the connection could be stronger.

I wish to continue the beautiful connection with my husband. As we grow older, I pray we continue to grow ever more committed and in love with each other.

I sometimes wish to disconnect with the more empathic side of me because the feelings can be overwhelming but today I wish to embrace empathy and pray that I'm shown the best way to use it.

I wish to connect in love and friendship with my family, friends (on and offline) and all those I'm supposed to meet.

For more connections, please visit the other Wishcasting Wednesday participants here.

Freedom

2009-05-12T06:20:00.002-05:00

by Beancat

I'm not sure where I found this but I think it's lovely.

Such Lovely Awards

2009-05-11T22:27:00.002-05:00

The very sweet and super cool Clairedelalune has gifted me with the One Lovely Blog Award! Claire and I recently discovered each other and I am having so much fun getting to know her. She's fun and is a breath of fresh air in the blogging world. Thank you oodles and oodles, Claire, for honoring me with this award!

Here are the rules attached to this award: 1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link. 2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you've newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

It would be difficult for me to list 15 blogs, not because there aren't 15 worthy of it, but because I'd surely make myself sick worrying about the choice. Instead, I will do this (please forgive me gods of the lovely blog award; I hope you'll accept my twist of the rules):

Since this award is called the "One Lovely Blog Award," anyone who writes in the next week about an act or expression of loving kindness may accept this award. If you do so, please let me know by leaving a comment on this post and I will link to your blog in next Tuesday's Simply Kind Tuesdays post. OR, if I visit your blog and see that you've written about this subject, I will mention you as well.

The lovely and talented Hybrid J has been so kind as to award me with the Noblesse Oblige Award. Whenever I visit Hybrid J's blog, I always come away with something to think about. I am so glad she received this award, because it is well deserved! I humbly accept it and thank you with all my heart, Hybrid J!

Details of Noblesse Award:

The recipient of this award is recognized for the following:

- The Blogger manifests exemplary attitude, respecting the nuances that pervade amongst different cultures and beliefs.

- Their Blog contents inspire; strives to encourage, and offers solutions

- There is a clear purpose at the Blog; one that fosters a better understanding on Social, Political, Economic, the Arts, Cultures, Sciences and Beliefs

- The Blog is refreshing and creative

- The Blogger promotes friendship and positive thinking.

The Blogger who receives this award will need to perform the following:

- Create a post with a mention and link to the person who presented the Noblesse Oblige Award

- The Award Conditions must be displayed at the Post

- Write a short article about what the Blog has thus far achieved – preferably citing one or more older posts as support

- The Blogger must present the Noblesse Oblige Award in concurrence with the Award conditions

- Blogger must display the Award at any location at their Blog.

Hmmm, what has my blog thus far achieved? I have tried to keep this blog a positive place to visit. Pretty pictures, positive thoughts and stories, and a sense of welcome and comfort. I'm inviting you to slip your shoes off, kick back in a comfy chair and share a cup of tea or coffee (or perhaps a margarita?) and some lovely conversation. I have met many beautiful and inspiring people through this blog and am deeply grateful.

Now, to whom do I give this award?

I have decided to give this to the group of bloggers who regularly participate in "Sleeping With Bread." What is Sleeping with Bread?

During the bombing raids of WWII, thousands of children were orphaned and left to starve. The fortunate ones were rescued and placed in refugee camps where they received food and good care. But many of these children who had lost so much could not sleep at night. They feared waking up to find themselves once again homeless and without food. Nothing seemed to reassure them. Finally, someone hit upon the idea of giving each child a piece of bread to hold at bedtime. Holding their bread, these children could finally sleep in peace. All through the night the bread reminded them, "Today I ate and I will eat again tomorrow." (Linn, Dennis et al, Sleeping With Bread, p.l)

These are the beginning words of a book that introduced me (the meme's host, Mary-LUE), to a practice called the examen. The orphans held on to what nourished them and were thus able to sleep peacefully at night. The examen, based on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius, helps a person hold onto what spiritually nourishes him by looking at what is giving him consolation in his life or causing him desolation. It allows someone to express his gratitude to God for the good stuff and turn to him for solace for the bad stuff. It is quite simple. You simply ask yourself, in the last day/week/month what gave me consolation and what caused me desolation.

Mary-LUE
Mel
Tara Lamont
Ashley
Dianne
Skeeter

If I have missed someone, I do apologize. On the weeks I have participated, reflecting on the previous week's ups and downs has helped me find the good that wasn't always apparent. It helps clarify what brought me through the tough moments and serves as a reminder of what or who will stick by me and where my focus should be. I do hope you will try it sometime. Thank you SWB members for inspiring and nourishing me!

A Day of Rest

2009-05-10T14:51:00.003-05:00

Feeling a little under the weather today but I'll post tomorrow. I have some lovely awards I'd like to show my appreciation for!

Have a wonderful Sunday my friends. :)

Full Flower Moon Dreamboard

2009-05-08T18:51:00.004-05:00

FULL FLOWER MOON

1. full moon {полная луна}, 2. I love art, 3. ...art...love...art...love...art...love..., 4. Winter Peace, 5. Earth Wind Water, 6. MAGIC in B&W, 7. Magic, 8. Magic, 9. magic moment, 10. The colorful world of pencils!, 11. ~ Magic Forest, 12. Write your destiny, 13. Abbotsford House from the gardens, 14. Me Must Be Dreaming!, 15. joy, 16. tranquility, 17. Autumn Ride !, 18. Dreams of a Journey, 19. You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one, 20. CXXXIX "imagine", 21. Minnie the Dreamer, 22. zero gravity, 23. Fairy Castle~Explore, 24. Dream Fairy

I'm excited to finally be participating in the Full Moon Dreamboard posts! In keeping with the name of this month's full moon, our heavenly host, Jamie Ridler, has asked us to visualize what we want to flower abundantly in our life this month.

Some time ago, in a post far away, I mentioned that I have strange and unpleasant dreams. I can't remember the last time I enjoyed one. Most nights, I'll doze in front of my laptop a few minutes here, a few minutes there and stay up until midnight or later, waking up at 5:15 a.m. During those hours in the dreamworld, I'm usually either on a quest or running from something or someone. I'm never really sure who that person is but I know they want to harm me in some way, emotionally or physically. My task in these dreams is to find a particular object or person. While most of these quests or escapes are set outdoors, houses and buildings are almost always an important prop.

Most people look forward to sinking back in their comfy beds after a long, busy day allowing Morpheus to have his way with them, but I truly prefer to encounter my dreams during the day when I have some measure of control. The soft, comfy bed is kinda nice, though.

What I want to flower abundantly this month is a practice of visualizing pleasant scenarios and locations before going to sleep in an effort to direct where my dreams will take me. I long to look forward to those hours in dreamland.

NOTE: This was posted before Jamie's Full Moon Dreamboard post and I took her question from her newsletter. In her actual post, she also asks What seeds will you plant this month?

Along with recreating my garden, I would like to sow seeds of contentment. I know there are others like me who love and and enjoy their lives and the people in it but are always thinking there's something still needed to make them truly happy. Maybe that something or someone is God, maybe it is something else.

I am NOT saying we shouldn't have wishes and dreams, long for a partner, plan a new career or work toward equality, justice and an end to hunger. I'm saying that while we are doing those things, we should appreciate where we are in our lives and discern what our purpose is at any given moment. I truly believe there is a purpose for our circumstance; that we can find something in our situation to hang on to and work with, no matter how difficult.

I have found that always looking to the future and not living in the present can be destructive. It can eat at you and breed hopelessness.

Let us wish our wishes, dream our dreams, search for hidden treasures and pray for the answers. And while we're doing that, let's also be thankful for our blessings and content in our situation knowing that it is where we are supposed to be right now. Perhaps it is where we need to be in order to get to where we're going.

P.S. I'm sorry if that sounded preachy. I just felt compelled to talk about this because it has been an issue for me for many years and I hate to think of others always feeling that churning in their gut, that frustration that what they're looking for (even if they don't know what that is) is forever just out of reach.

Many blessings to you all!

Wishcasting Wednesday

2009-05-06T13:52:00.020-05:00

With our esteemed Wishcasting Wednesday hostess Jamie Ridler on a balance break, I still planned to write about wishes today. It just doesn't seem right not to. Then, I saw Tabby's, of *I Choose Bliss*, post about wishes and thought, "Hmm, she must feel the same way I do." I was then off to Genie's blog, Reality Insanity, and found that Jamie had given her permission to host this week's WW.

Seems to me there's something special going on here. Something I've always felt and have noticed even more so in the last few weeks as the list of participants grows longer. Wishcasting Wednesday gives us permission to wish out loud. We are given the opportunity to think about what we truly want, explore the possibilities, and sometimes find out that we don't really want what we thought. WW also nudges us to dream and support others in their dreams.

Genie's question for today is:

What do you wish to find on your doorstep?

Goodness, what possibilities! I might have to write a list for this, both selfish and non. I wish for:

1. A giant box of books that I've never read by my favorite authors and some from authors new to me.

2. Another box of paints and pencils, markers and erasers, beautiful papers and stamps and all sorts of cool art supplies.

3. An envelope with a certificate stating that some kind soul is gifting me with maid service for the next year or more.

4. Might as well ask for a gardener, too!

5. Ed McMahon with a big fat check. One for my family and one for himself since I hear he's having difficulties.

6. Family who live out of town.

7. A bunch of friends who have come to pick us up for a day of fun and serving others.

8. A beautiful box filled with the endings to the stories I started and never finished.

9. An abundance of energy and confidence, both of which I often lack.

10. A key that will open the door to cures for the world's diseases and hate, bigotry and greed.

What would be really awesome is if all of you showed up on my doorstep. I'd welcome you warmly and we'd spend a glorious day sharing stories, encouraging each other and bonding with our tribe. Just like we do now, only in person! :)

..................................................

When asked what my son would wish to find on our doorstep, he said: "All my friends! I like them for them and they like me for me."

I love that answer, Alex. People who do that are true friends.

.................................................

Thanks, Genie, for hosting this week's Wishcasting Wednesdays!

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Mother Nature

2009-05-05T00:01:00.003-05:00

Nature's Kindness

By Alya G.

Universal Aid for Children Ukraine - Art from the Heart Program

Think of the ways

Mother Nature shows us kindness.

She provides sustenance

and offers shade.

She heals with warmth

and feeds our spirit with beauty.

Her majesty inspires

and teaches us respect.

Her infinite fragrance calms fear,

provokes memories and warns of danger.

She shows us the way

through birth, death and rebirth.

Her kindness is immeasurable

and must be appreciated to continue.

Please join me in showing appreciation

for Mother Nature's kindness.

What one kind act can you show Her today?

For other thoughts on kindness, please go to Claudia's Simply Kind Tuesdays.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - May 4, 2009

2009-05-04T05:42:00.013-05:00

For my fellow Sleeping with Bread participants, I will join you again. I've just felt compelled to post my Simple Woman's Daybook the last few weeks.

For today...May 4, 2009

Outside my window...The sun will soon rise. The chairs are strewn about the patio from last night's fire. It was fun roasting marshmallows, making smores, talking and picking out constellations.

I am thinking...I will feel better once I complete a task I've been putting off for the last week.

I am thankful for...easy breezy spring evenings sitting by the fire and enjoying each others company.

From the kitchen...I'm not sure what my husband will whip up but he broke out the grill yesterday so I'm thinking that might be involved.

I am wearing...grey slacks (it's Monday) and my favorite black top. Darn, I forgot to color my hair this weekend. I could let it go silver but it's coming in patches so I'd look pretty strange. Oh, well, I guess my hair will match my outfit!

I am reading...the last few chapters of PoemCrazy by Susan Goldsmith Wooldridge. I suggest everyone read it whether you're interested in poetry or not. It is plump, juicy and full of life. The chapters about the kids from her workshops will tug at your heart.

I am hoping...for a quiet work week so I can get caught up on some projects.

I am creating...my Full Moon Dreamboard this week!

I am praying...for beautiful weeknights so my family can get out for a few walks.

Around the house...I cleaned the house this weekend so there's really only laundry and a little darning left to do.

One of my favorite things...the smell of oranges and tangerines. I've been allergic to them since my teen years but I can still enjoy their scent!

A few plans for the rest of the week...I'll take my son to see the Wolverine movie and I'd like to get more writing and drawing time in. I'll also make the effort to throw in some random acts of kindness. :)

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Kali

You can find more Daybooks here.

Kreativ Blogger Award

2009-04-30T16:05:00.024-05:00

You know, this blogging community rocks! Isn’t it incredible that we can find and become part of such a supportive and nurturing community when we haven’t actually met its residents? One of those awesome residents, Alpha B., has awarded me with this Kreativ Blogger Award! Thank you so much, Alpha B.!! I do so enjoy your visits here and am happy you received this award because your blogs are fantastic!

With this award, I'm asked to tell you about seven of my favorite things.

With a previous award, I spoke of seven things I love and listed my husband, son, family, pets, etc., so I'll create a different type of favorites list here.

1. I enjoy early mornings when everyone is sleeping and I can write, read and surf online to my heart's content, usually with coffee nearby.

2. I enjoy staring into a fire, especially outdoors, while new age type music plays in the background. Visions and ideas come so easily then.

3. Autumn is my favorite time of year. Cool brisk air...sweaters...school...turning leaves...apple orchards...baking...anticipation...Halloween!

4. Being accepted by a kitten or cat...or at least tolerated.

5. Chocolate. Wait, why isn't this number one? I must be slipping.

6. I love lilacs. Not only do I love their scent and pretty little petals, but they always bring me back to lighter, more innocent times, my parents' home, and gathering bunches and bunches to bring as gifts for my school teachers.

7. Studying other cultures. I don't know if or when we'll be able to take a big trip but until that day happens, I can soak up as much knowledge as I can about the world around us.

I'd like to send this Kreativ Blogger award to the following seven creative blogger friends:

1. Tabitha at http://knittingjourneymanredux.blogspot.com/

2. Sara at http://mama-craft.blogspot.com/

3. Lors at http://threepupperonis.blogspot.com/

4. Sema at http://affirmart.blogspot.com/

5. Roxanne at http://never-shower-in-high-heels.blogspot.com/

6. Brandi at http://brandireynolds.blogspot.com/

7. Melba at http://www.melbamcmullin.com/

Thank you again, Alpha B.!

Poetry Ideas

2009-04-30T09:31:00.015-05:00

The contest winners for the Texty Ladies National Poetry Month poetry contest have been announced today. It was difficult to choose the winning entries, as you can imagine, but a contest generally requires a winner so there you go. It was fun reading the entries and we received quite an eclectic mix. They were all winners in my book!

We learn as we go and I think to make our next contest easier for the participants and judges, we will post a blurb about what the judges will be looking for in that particular contest. My personal preference and belief about poetry is that the meaning should not be a complete mystery to the reader; they should not have to work overtime to discover its purpose. Not that it has to be simple and spelled out for you. Like other forms of art, a poem can be subjective just not a complete mystery. Those are my thoughts on the subject anyway. I should clarify that the meaning or message was fairly clear in the poems submitted to the contest.

I'm still tinkering with Poetry Play Thursday. I'm not sure if I should switch up the format each month or just pick a different form of poetry to explore each week. For May, I'd like to give a structured prompt for people to use, not just one word but something like the following:

What if _____________?
I might _____________
What if _____________?
I could _____________
What if _____________?
I would _____________
(Ask a Question)______________?

Would anyone be interested in trying something that structured?

What if there was no daylight?
I might run with wolves and howl at the moon
What if the moon spoke in whispers?
I could learn the secrets of the universe
What if words brought life to dreams?
I would write of the pack, intuition and truth
What if we listened to the Wild Woman within us?

Wild Woman by Pamela Sweet is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Wishcasting Wednesdays - Read

2009-04-29T06:00:00.014-05:00

How do you do it, Jamie? Each week, I read on several participants' blogs that you asked a question pertinent to what was in their hearts at that moment. Once again, you've hit the nail on the head, so to speak. Jamie's question this week is:

What do you wish to read?

Reading has been one of my greatest joys my entire life. Escaping to new lands, caring for new characters, and resolving new conflicts not only takes us out of ourselves, it provides us new perspective on our own lives.

For quite a while now, I've tried to cram in some reading while riding the bus or immediately before falling asleep which leaves me with a fractured reading experience. It gives me bits and pieces and not a good overall picture.

I've been telling myself I must write, write, write; put what little free time I have toward that. However, my writing has been sporadic and my enjoyment of books has been the same.

In order to write, we must read. We must lose ourselves in fantastical journeys, gain insight from the sage advice of others, and be inspired by those who have overcome. Isn't time spent reading time well spent?

I wish to spend more time reading without worrying about other things I "should" be doing instead. I wish to take my coffee, tea or hot cocoa and curl up on the sofa or a chair on our Juliet balcony and enjoy a light, warm breeze as I lose myself in another world. I wish to read without guilt.

A few books I'm looking forward to reading:

Happy Reading!!

More wishcasters have cast their wishes here.

Simple Woman's Daybook - April 27, 2009

2009-04-27T00:40:00.020-05:00

For Today...April 27, 2009

Outside my window...The clouds are light gray, promising a time of waiting and then rain. A lone bird's insistent call disturbs the calm.

I am thinking...that there are days when I enjoy the gray, the rain, and quiet.

I am thankful for...the weekend I had with my husband. We had originally planned to stay at a swank hotel and have a fancy dinner to celebrate our anniversary. Instead, we looked at books, books and more books, ate lunch and dinner out, spent quiet time alone, and just enjoyed the silence.

From the kitchen...Dinner will be spaghetti and meatballs courtesy of my husband. I am so thankful that he cooks dinner during the work week!

I am wearing...my burgandy sleep shorts and a soft peach long-sleeved shirt. As I've said before, I sleep in some of the weirdest ensembles.

I am going...to learn to let go.

I am reading...I finished Poltergeist by Kat Richardson and am deciding whether or not to move straight on to the third book in the series, Undergound, or slip a book in between them. For some reason, I like to torture myself that way. ;) I'll be starting The Tao of Writing - Imagine. Create. Flow by Ralph L. Wahlstrom soon.

I am hoping...for a stress-free, productive day.

I am creating...another collage for Full Moon Dreamers that will be posted May 9th or before. I just knew once I started to collage, there'd be no holding me back!

I am praying...that the reawakening I feel in my spirit continues to grow and flourish. I also pray that the endeavors of my blog friends do the same.

Around the house...Goodness! There is so much to be done around the house this week. Catching up on laundry is a must and I'd love to dig out the hostas in the backyard. The previous owner planted in them in too sunny a spot. They also house the bunnies that I'm fond of watching but am not fond of their eating habits!

One of my favorite things...Looking through the windows and out over the balcony to what appears to be stillness but is actually a haven of life, critters stirring preparing for their day... It makes me think of the Wind and the Willows or some other children's story.

A few plans for the rest of the week...I'd love to get some reading and writing time in. I'll also be judging the Texty Ladies poetry contest and gathering prizes together for shipping.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

Just because.

You'll find more Simple Woman's Daybook entries here.

enCouraging Bliss: My Happy Place

2009-04-26T21:13:00.019-05:00

Christine (BlissChick) encouraged us to create a collage that represents our Happy Place. Collaging is new to me but I've been wanting to try it for a while and Christine's prompt made it fun! I could create dozens of Happy Place collages!

I apologize that the photos are so small. I used Mosaic Maker and Flickr to create this so if anyone knows how to save the collage so it appears larger, please let me know. :)

It's interesting to look at the choices people make when collaging. As I look at my choices, beauty is apparent. Beauty has always given me a high, as I'm sure it does most people, but digging deeper I find comfort, warmth, solitude, spirit, celebration, culture and knowledge. What do you see?

For more Happy Places, please check out Christine's Blisschick blog on enCouraging Bliss.

2009-04-25T18:20:00.002-05:00

What we do for each other.

To Sarah at Cottage Garden Studio

2009-04-23T22:04:00.005-05:00

Sarah,

Thank you so much for visiting my blog and leaving such warm comments that make me smile. I want you to know that I am having difficulty leaving comments at your blog for some strange reason but it is not for lack of trying! My computer has been a bit temperamental lately so it is probably on my end.

Your story about the purchase of "Heart of Darkness" by Tabitha's husband as a gift for her is so touching! I'm happy for you that everything turned out the way it did. To everyone else, please go to Sarah's blog to read about this. I don't want to give away too much here.

With regard to Wishcasting Wednesday and the steps you wish to take with your art, I must say that you are very talented and I have every confidence that those steps will be successful. May you be blessed with courage and joy during the journey! Thank you for sharing your bliss with us!

Let's hope this computer issue disappears and I can comment at your blog again soon. I am still in the process of catching up with everyone's blogs and hopefully this won't happen elsewhere.

Love to all,

Pamela

Happy Anniversary!

2009-04-23T05:52:00.013-05:00

Happy Anniversary, Honey!

My husband and I married three years ago yesterday; been together for over seven years. We were busy running around yesterday so this comes a day late.

I had planned to tell the story of our somewhat unconventional relationship and courtship but I think I'll save that for another time and maybe another format.

I want the world to know that I love my husband beyond measure and am happy and content in our relationship.

Here are a few things I love:

YOU

Quick Wit
Gentle manner
Acceptance
Caresses
Forgiving nature
Talent
Comfort
Desire
Commanding touch
Patience
Intelligence
Empathy
Support
Persistence
Love

Silliness
Acceptance
Similar interests
Faith
Mutual respect
Desire
Forgiveness
Challenges
Imagination
Support
Growth
Love

For those of you who are not currently in a romantic relationship and would like to be, I must share that I met my husband when I was 37 years old. I had not given up on a lifelong partner but did not expect to find one either.

You may find your partner anywhere, any place, any time and at any age. I would say do not ever lose hope but find joy in your life where it's at right now. You never know where your journey will lead you!

Wishcasting Wednesday - April 22, 2009

2009-04-21T23:27:00.014-05:00

"Be a maker of magic and a tender of wishes."

Jamie's wish prompt today is:

What step do you wish to take?

Hmmm....I guess wishes aren't enough. We've got to take action? Jamie's right. As my sister and I were saying just the other day, "It's time to stop waiting for that big thing around the corner and start living in the here and now." Many of us believe from an early age that our lives are destined for greatness. We just know that at some point, big things will happen and everyone will see our true worth.

I always thought I'd be a great writer and artist by this time, traveling the globe and thinking lofty thoughts. Maybe I'd come up with the solution to world hunger or find a way to bring peace to the stricken.

In my head, I always knew my destiny wasn't going to play out without some involvement from me, and yet I kept looking ahead, waiting for it to fall into my lap.

How can we be content when we think something better is just ahead of us? I'll be happy when such and such finally happens, we think. Why not be happy now?

What step do I wish to take?

I wish to make a concerted effort to live in the moment and enjoy not only the end result but the process of what I'm doing at any given moment. Hear the clickety-clack of my keyboard as my fingers fly over its keys, smell the tempting orange sitting in a bowl on the dining room table, enjoy the jumble of words tumbling about my brain as they jockey into position and form sentences, forget about whether or not these words bring me riches and glory but only care about whether or not they'll have meaning for me or someone else.

It is wise to set goals and reach for the sky; it is also wise to find value in the steps you take to reach those goals. Should I not become a famous writer and artist, but stay exactly where I am, a sometime writer/artist, daytime legal assistant with a fabulous family, a few extra pounds, and a generous heart...that's okay, too. I will take steps to find the beauty in each act and moment.

What steps do you wish to take now? To find out what others are wishing, visit Wishcasting Wednesdays hosted by Jamie Ridler at Starshyne Productions.

Photo by ClickyPenPixieofDoom.

Computer Issues

2009-04-21T11:22:00.002-05:00

My laptop will not turn on and I'm hoping to get the problem solved tonight. Wish me luck! (currently at work)

The Simple Woman's Daybook - April 20, 2009

2009-04-20T05:26:00.013-05:00

We had family staying with us over the weekend and the entire family came over Saturday night for food and fun. The weather was beautiful, sunny and 70's, and it was good to be together again. With my parents gone, it is important that we continue to make memories.

I'm terribly behind in reading and commenting on my favorite blogs and because there are so many, it will take me some time to catch up. I look forward to reading about what you've been up to! Here are my thoughts:

For Today...April 20, 2009

I am thinking...I will be gentle with myself today.

Outside my window...the birds are throwing a wild party.

I am thankful for... my family, my job, and my relative good health. None can be taken for granted.

From the kitchen...We still have a few leftovers of fajitas and spanish rice from the weekend. Not much but enough to provide my husband with a good lunch today, his day off.

I am wearing...grey dress slacks and a black knit top. I tend to dress in grey or black on Mondays, not necessarily because of my mood or that I'm unhappy it is Monday. I think it's because I feel confident in those colors, and they help me ease gently into the week. I suppose I should wear brighter, cheerier colors on Monday but it just doesn't happen that way.

Iam reading...John Lithgow's "The Poet's Corner", trying to finish it before Saturday, when it needs to be returned to the library.

I am hoping...for a gentle day, no stress, all smiles.

I am creating...a simpler life. I'm far from there but am heading in that direction.

I am praying...for the continued good health of my family and me and that my son's recent application for some assistance is granted.

Around the house...Yikes! There is more laundry than I care to think about. Other than that, the house is in pretty good shape since we cleaned for the weekend. Just need to get the electric situation figured out so we can use the vacuum again without it blowing out the lights.

One of my favorite things...Having quiet time to myself to sip coffee and read my favorite blogs.

A few plans for the rest of the week...I'll catch up on laundry and reading blogs, finish reading a few books, clean up a logo I created for Texty Ladies and spend some quality time with family.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing with you...

From Macy's 2009 Flower Show. The photo is a bit dark and I haven't cropped out the people sitting at the end of the flower bed yet. I just thought the field of tulips was lovely.

Please join Patty and the other participants

of The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Zen Habits according to Big Bowl

2009-04-16T10:04:00.008-05:00

By Bella Dos Santos

Slurp Freely

Breathe Deeply

Speak Frankly

Simplify

Take Chances

Dress Casually

Think Fast

See Clearly

(Found on the walls of Big Bowl Restaurant.

Who knew dining could be so enlightening?)

Wishcasting Wednesdays - Clear it out!

2009-04-15T09:24:00.013-05:00

"Be a maker of magic and a tender of wishes."

Wishtress Jamie always knows just what to ask. Her prompt today is:

What do you wish to clear out?

I could go in a number of directions with this one. There's always the household clutter and storage (junk) room downstairs or last year's leaves still mucking up the yard but I think something more important needs clearing.

Fear.

My mind seems to be riddled with fear. It's not that I'm constantly quaking in my boots but I see a theme running through the past several years of my life and its time to look for a new template.

I want to make a living as an artist and writer. I want it so much I can taste it but the fear of failing chokes me and has held me back from even trying. Less than two years ago, I decided to try blogging, dip my toes in, if you will, and I found the waters quite warm. Since then, I've written a few pieces of flash fiction, some short poems, and started writing more than one novel.

Dreams became reality when I started drawing again after the group decided to create another logo for Texty Ladies. Not only am I excited about the finished project but I'm enjoying the process as well.

You say, "Well, where's this fear you speak of?" The fear prohibits me from getting really messy, making mistakes and discovering a host of incredible lessons in creativity. It cripples me and begs me to play it safe.

This fear isn't satisfied ruling one area of my life...no, its tentacles have latched onto others as well but I'm putting a stop to it now.

My wish is to clear out the fear faction so I may explore, discover, command, produce, release and yes, even fail at whatever I choose to do.

I'll be participating in Jamie Ridler's "The Next Chapter - Wreck This Journal" to help break free from fear and give myself permission to play and get messy. Maybe you'd like to join us!

For more wishes, go to this week's Wishcasting Wednesday at Starshyne Productions.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Organizations

2009-04-14T09:10:00.010-05:00

For this week's Simply Kind Tuesday, I'm listing some pretty cool sites that help promote kindness. If you have a look at any, please let me know what you think and if they've helped you in any way.

1. HelpOthers.org - Kindness is contagious. This is a portal dedicated to small acts of kindness. The site has a game of pay-it-forward: anonymously make someone smile with an act of kindness, leave behind a card asking them to keep the ripple going.

2. ActsofKindness.org - Geared toward high school kids and college age adults. A resource for people committed to spreading kindness. Freely provides a wide variety of materials, including activity ideas, lesson plans, project plans, ...

3. HumanKindness.org - Non-profit organization which stresses simple living, a dedication to service, and a commitment to personal spiritual practice.

4. KindnessRanch.org - Kindness Ranch is a place for animals who are in need of a safe place to call home. They are initially focusing on lab tested dogs, cats, and horses.

5. ATraditionofKindness.org - Stories of men and women who have shown extraordinary kindness in difficult circumstances.

6. The Kindness Cure - An online community whose purpose is to bring together the nicest people on the planet to help perform one million acts of kindness in one year!

7. TheKindnessRevolution.net - A members-only business initiative of companies who are committed to raising the awareness of the importance of kindness in leadership and customer service.

Who would have thought there would be so many organizations focusing on kindness! I'm sure these are just the tip of the iceberg! Makes the heart swell, doesn't it?! :D

Take a look here for more participants in Simply Kind Tuesdays.

Sleeping with Bread - Twilight Zone

2009-04-12T22:31:00.011-05:00

Sleeping with Bread is about finding that one thing that will get you through, carry you over, and hold you tight. It's about having something to hold on to when times are rough and even when they're not. It's also about being the one to provide that lifeline when it's called upon.

The last few weeks have been strange, like I've been in limbo, almost like a Twilight Zone episode where I'm riding a bus that goes nowhere. It just keeps on going.

Negative moments during the ride:

1. Being unsure of whether or not I should continue my involvement in a particular group effort. Am I still receiving benefit from it? What is my motivation for continuing to be involved? Could my time be put to better use? Is it still fun? Is that enough? I don't want to let anyone down but I often feel like my voice and involvement are not truly respected.

2 Like many others, I'm still concerned about how the economy is affecting my employment.

3. Not being sure of what to do in certain situations with my son. Sometimes, I feel like I've exhausted all efforts and ideas and just don't know where to turn. For the most part, I think we live with his Aspergers Syndrome pretty well. He's grown and learned so much but every once in a while, there are days of feeling stuck. All of us, caught in thought and behavior patterns that get us nowhere. Thank God for the few and far between moments of "Aha! We could try this!" I just wish they'd happen more often...hint..hint...to the One upstairs! :)

Positive moments during the ride:

1. Completing a fun design and form creation project at work.

2. Starting after-dinner family walks a few times each week.

3. Receiving two blog awards from women I respect and admire.

4. Being an ear and shoulder when a friend really needed it.

5. Witnessing my son's growing maturity and more clear and flexible thinking.

6. Knowing my husband is by my side no matter what crazy thing I decide to do.

What do we hold on to in times of doubt and indecision? What do we do when we don't know what to do, when no one path looks more promising than the next?

We hold on to what has proven true in the past. We may not always know where we're going but we can trust the One who will take us there. Whether you believe in God, your Inner-Goddess or someone else, know that these times of uncertainty will pass and He, and you, can be trusted to get you through. These times bring growth, build character and strengthen faith.

I'm holding on to Him, my family, friends and me. Doing so will not only benefit me, but help me to be that lifeline when I receive the call.

Stop by Sleeping with Bread to find out what other participants have to say.

Queen of the Blogs! Me?

2009-04-11T18:23:00.012-05:00

Talk about fantastic blog friends, the ever warm and wonderful Gypsy, from Confessions of a Kitchen Witch, has awarded me my second award this week: the Queen of Blogs Award! While it's unlikely I could live up to that title, I do appreciate Gypsy's thoughtfulness. :)

At Confessions of a Kitchen Witch, Gypsy shares some excellent recipes and home and hearth information, including Old Thyme Rituals and Tradition. Go check it out; you'll be glad you stopped by!

Now, I would like to pass this Queen of the Blogs award on to some fantastic bloggers:

1. Mel @ melsdream - Thoughts For The Day, plenty of wisdom and humor;

2. Tracy @ Seaside Enchantment - Stories of home and family, wonder and gratitude;

3. Kazari @ On The End Of My Rope - Writings on life, adventure and wishcrafting; and

4. Joanna @ Little Faerie Tales - Artistic endeavors and inspiration & Celtic Mythcraft - Spiritual artifacts and alchemy.

I strongly suggest you visit their blogs as I know you're in for a treat! :) Thank you again, Gypsy!

We Need You - Poetry Play Thursday

2009-04-09T09:31:00.004-05:00

I'm trying something different at Texty Ladies today for Poetry Play Thursday and I hope you'll stop by and help us out. The poetry form I've chosen for the week is Renga and it requires pairs or small groups to write.

I think it will be fun if people participate. You don't have to be a seasoned poet, just be willing to write a few lines to continue the poem.

I can't wait to find out what direction this poem will take! See you over there! :)

Wishcasting Wednesdays - Transformation

2009-04-08T13:15:00.010-05:00

[NOTE: My following wish is a true wish but I'm going to claim another one and explore the topic of transformation in another post. - 4/9/09]

Jamie's question today for Wishcasting Wednesdays has me perplexed.

What do you wish to transform?

Hmmm. What WOULDN'T I like to transform right now? My figure, my yard, a certain relationship... Wait, I DO know what I'd like to transform! My kitchen!!

Let me give you the picture (I'd post one but then I'd have to do the dishes):

Our stove/microwave combo is I'm sure one of the first models ever made. The fan is basically a whole in the kitchen ceiling rimmed in silver. There's a pretty cool cut-out oval shape in the ceiling but it's trimmed in a faded border of peaches, leaves and butterflies (not the pretty you're imagining). The maple cabinets show an awesome grain but the hardware is dated and the overall look is tired and 1950s.

I don't know what the original owners were thinking but they put in a white tiled floor. White! Besides being incredibly cold on the feet, it shows every little speck of dirt and I end up getting on my hands and knees to wipe it down more often than I'd like. I'm not EVEN going to get into the curtain situation!

It might not sound too terrible but it drives me crazy and if we ever have the funds to do a remodel, that is where I'd start.

I wish to transform our oft used and outdated kitchen!

Find out what other participants are wishing at Wishcasting Wednesdays.

Lemons to Lemonade

2009-04-07T05:46:00.006-05:00

I was having a difficult few days and didn't have any words to share when I sat down to get caught up on a few bloggy things and what did I find? A beautiful gift from a beautiful person!

I'd like to give thanks to Sema for gifting me with the Lemonade Award!

A Lemonade Award is given to bloggers that show a positive attitude, gratitude,and a willingness to share their ideas, support and online friendship. In other words, people who make lemonade when they get lemons!

Sema shares her amazing mantra cards and beautiful thoughts at her blog AffirmArt. Isn't that a fantastic name? She's also a fellow participant in Wishcasting Wednesdays and her wishes are always an inspiration to me. Thank you so much for this award, Sema!

Here are the rules for the award:

1. Put the logo on your blog or post.
2. Nominate at least 7 blogs that show great Gratitude and/or Attitude.
3. Be sure to list and link your nominees within your post.
4. Let them know they have received this award by leaving a comment on their blog.

The following 7 blogs have blessed me and helped me in my journey and I would love to thank them for it.

1. Tabitha @ ♥I Choose Bliss♥

2. Tara @ Uphill Idealist

3. Genie Sea @ Reality Insanity

4. Rachelle @ Magpie Girl

5. Claudia @ On a Limb with Claudia

6. Sarah @ Cottage Garden Studio

7. Tabitha @ The Knitting Journeyman Redux

I'm considering this my article for Simply Kind Tuesdays because I want to celebrate the generosity and support I've found here in this blogging community. The building of spirit and kindness shown is a beautiful thing to witness and experience. Thank you all for your warmth and wisdom.

Find other Simply Kind Tuesdays participants here.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - April 6, 2009

2009-04-05T23:02:00.014-05:00

I started participating in The Simple Woman's Daybook because I enjoy the questions, the quiet time in the morning to reflect and look ahead, and it is fun to read how other participants are doing. It is also a reminder to me that I do indeed want to live a simpler life although it seems I keep adding more and more to my schedule and am doing anything but!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Outside my window...it is dark and the bunnies in the backyard are sleeping peacefully, dreaming of the yummy flowers they'll be eating from the flowerbeds.

I am thinking...about the coming weeks: a very welcome visit from my sister and her family, and my husband's and my anniversary.

I am thankful for...this day and another opportunity to get things right.

From the kitchen...I must remember to pick up some A-1 sauce after work as my husband is making steaks tonight!

I am wearing...my violet sleep shorts and the thin red shirt I wore yesterday. I was too tired to change last night. lol! My poor husband has the privilege of seeing me in all sorts of weird sleep ensembles when I'm that darn tired.

I am creating...some new graphics for my group blog, Texty Ladies.

I am going...start doing some yoga again this week. I do not practice the spiritual meditation sometimes associated with this but the asanas (positions) definitely strengthen me and make me feel better all around.

I am reading...Poltergeist by Kat Richardson (still) and Poet's Corner by John Lithgow (National Poetry Month).

I am hoping...for a calm and productive week.

I am hearing...some birds chirping outside and my kittens' ears are perking up.

Around the house...Dishes and laundry must get done and I need to sew up a small hole in my son's shirt. If it's warm later this week, I'd like to rake up the remaining leaves in the yard.

One of my favorite things...When the kittens look up with sleepy eyes, just waiting for me to pick them up and cuddle.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Help my son organize his room since we didn't do it last week, sew some more decorative patches on his jacket, and take a few walks since the sun is supposed to shine.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing:

This WILL NOT be me this week!

Please join Peggy and the other participants
at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

POETRY CONTEST & Poetry Play Thursday

2009-04-02T12:30:00.003-05:00

In celebration of National Poetry Month, the Texty Ladies are holding a Poetry Contest! For more details, please go to the Texty Ladies site. Good luck to those who enter! (Even those who don't.) :)

Still trying to catch up on visiting and commenting at all the blogs I love to read...

Wishcasting Wednesdays - Trust

2009-04-01T12:43:00.007-05:00

Wishtress Jamie asks this week:

What do you wish to trust in?

Learning to trust can be an issue. With the exception of my husband, most of my romantic relationships were doomed by me from the start simply because I'd always choose someone I could never trust: men who could not commit, were semi-committed, musicians with groupies... you get it.

Even though I know in my heart that I can trust my husband, I still play games in my head on occasion worrying about what-ifs. Instead of getting freaked out because I'm conditioned to expect the worst, I now talk myself down, reason it out, and talk to him if I'm still concerned about something. It's amazing how our minds can convince us of something that is not true.

My wish this week is to trust:

1. My loved ones;

2. My abilities;

3. My intuition and instinct; and

4. My heart.

Visit Jamie's Starshyne Productions for more participants' wishes.

Wordful Wednesday - Critters

2009-04-01T05:55:00.004-05:00

I will take our yard back from this furry beast and his family this summer!

They run around like they own the place!

Oh yes, Mr./Mrs. Cute Bunny Creature, you are SO mine!

For more Wordful Wednesday photos and fun,

please click this button:

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Poem

2009-03-31T05:47:00.003-05:00

Doesn’t it sometimes

Happen that way?

Kindness

And you meant to say thanks

But life gets so busy

And something else

Outranks

And days go by,

Then weeks, maybe years?

And what was done for you

Nobody hears

It meant the world at the time

You should have expressed

How much it meant

And how you were blessed

Next time remember

How it would feel

If you had told them

It meant a great deal!!

~ Linda R. O'Connell

Found at Poems at The Poetry Showcase

Find other acts of kindness at On a Limb with Claudia

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-03-30T06:09:00.001-05:00

FOR TODAY (Monday, March 30, 2009)

Outside my window...it is dark and all is quiet before the sun rises to wake the sleepy world.

I am thinking...that I would like to stay home and have a quiet, simple day, puttering around my house and yard, but I will get myself to work and make it a productive day.

I am thankful for...these quiet early morning moments when I can collect my thoughts and prepare myself for the day ahead.

From the learning rooms...I'm excited about the software I'm learning at work and the new forms and feature we'll be rolling out to the Firm this week.

From the kitchen...two brown sugar cinnamon poptarts and a glass of milk.

I am wearing...grey slacks and a grey sweater. Hey, monochrome is slenderizing! Besides, I love the color.

I am creating...a feature at work to honor and bring notice to LAAs.

I am going...to bring Devi in to the vet tonight to have her stitches removed.

I am reading...two books, Poltergeist by Kat Richardson, and The Right to Write by Julia Cameron.

I am hoping...that I find some missing documents at work today.

I am hearing...the kittens munching their breakfast and the clock ticking, telling me I need to shut down the laptop.

Around the house...the dishes need to be done and the folded laundry on the dining room table needs to be put away.

One of my favorite things...the stillness of early morning.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Clean house, sew some patches on my son's jacket, pay bills, and have family night.

Here is a picture thought I am sharing...

Last year's peonies from the bushes on the east side of my house.

I'm looking forward to this year's beautiful blooms.

Please join Peggy Hostetler (creator of this meme), the other participants,

and me at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

See the Child

2009-03-29T14:23:00.004-05:00

I loved Juliette West's painting "Inner Child" so much that I had to go back and look at her work again. I found the following and thought it tied in with yesterday's post and BlissChick's enCouraging Bliss question.

See the Child

Through my fantastic journey of the

soul,

I found a parable, both beautiful and

heart warming,

To see the child within my reflection,

And through the eternal process of

life,

Find forgiveness within my heart,

Through the simplicity and wisdom of

love,

Find compassion for those who

wronged me,

For there in my fanciful illusion,

Did I find peace.

~ Juliette West

enCouragingBliss!

2009-03-27T23:59:00.011-05:00

Beautiful Blisschick (Christine) asks us to enCourage bliss. Her initial post explaining her weekly prompt to enCourage bliss can be found here, with an update here.

This week's assignment is: Tell us what you were like when you were six. Would that little girl be happy with your life now?

Six years old, eh? I remember that as being a fairly lovely time in my life...with a few hiccups. Christine mentions having the FisherPrice record player in her post and I remember having a record player as well but I'm not sure if it was FisherPrice. I had six plastic records to go with mine that were songs from Sesame Street. "I Love Trash" was my favorite, sung by Oscar the Grouch himself! I think I still remember the words.... "I LOVE TRASH! Anything dirty or dingy or dusty...anything ragged or rotten or rusty!...." Oh yes, loved that tune! One record has Kermit the Frog singing "It's not easy being green...." which always made me feel sad.

People have told me that I used to dance all the time, especially for my father. He's said I'd dance and dance, fluttering all around, and then I'd get in such a precarious position he was sure I'd fall down but I'd manage to maneuver myself out of it and dance on. I rarely dreamed of being in the ballet but I do remember dreaming of always dancing. I loved how music could make my body move, that feeling of sparkly magic in my belly flowing out to my limbs, making them jump and sway and wriggle. I still feel that way when the right music comes on. I imagine we all do.

In my younger years, I don't believe I had a good idea of what I wanted to do with my life other than that I wanted to be creative and do something with words. My first grade teacher gave me a storybook about fanciful creatures to entertain me when I was completed with my schoolwork before most everyone else. I loved reading those stories of different worlds and faraway places. I'll admit I was a dreamer and wanted so much for myself and the world. I wanted the magic to be real.

Even back then, I was a peacekeeper. My neighborhood was filled with children and I usually had a few "best" friends. For some reason, those friends never seemed to like each other. I was told it was that they didn't want to share their time with me. That sounds very egotistical but I guess that's how it was. I just wanted everyone to get along so we could all play together. Maybe I should have turned those peacekeeping skills into some type of diplomatic career. It's true that those skills have come in handy on many an occasion.

My parents argued and didn't seem to know how to communicate with each other. Quite often, I felt like I was the adult and they were the children and I had to find a way to bring them together, help them to understand each other...and stop the arguing. That, of course, is not a child's role but it felt like mine. Hmmm, diplomat and psychologist. I'm in neither profession but it's felt like a life-long career.

We want to blame our parents for why we turned out the way we did or why we didn't do something we wanted to or should have. Their words and actions certainly affect us, mold us to some degree. I do believe, however, that we make our own choices and are ultimately responsible for who we become. Once we realize this, we can hopefully break free from any negative thought patterns and cycles we've been caught in due to whatever influence they've had over us. We can receive so many beautiful things from our parents but as they are not perfect, their faults are bound to touch us.

My parents, like their parents, were not free with praise. I'm sure they found it difficult; not because they didn't want to praise us but because it didn't flow naturally from their lips. I was always a high performer in school, labeled as high-potential, and saw the whole world before me. I could do almost anything. There was one particular incident, however, that comes to mind as being a catalyst in the direction my life took after it. (Jumping forward a bit in years...)

The eighth grade students at my school were participating in individual science projects. The top chosen projects would move on to a regional meet which in turn could go on to state. Wanting to be different, I chose a social science project and focused on abuse, child abuse specifically. I did the research, read the horrible stories, and presented a fairly decent project to the judges. I was happy to be chosen as having a top project that would move on to regionals.

Coming home that night, my mother was in the kitchen and dad was sitting in his favorite chair in the living room, watching T.V. I was not one to boast, feeling embarrassed, but I hesitantly and hopefully told my parents the news about my project and its high rating. Their actual words escape me but they were something like, "That's nice," and "Oh, that's great."

I don't know what I was expecting but I guess I hoped for a more enthusiastic response. My spirit plummeted. It wasn't that they didn't care, I just wanted them to care more. My brain took over my injured heart (or maybe it was the other way around) and I decided from that day forward, I just wasn't going to try anymore. What good would it do? It didn't get me the good feelings I so desperately longed for. (It seems like such a silly event to make such a drastic decision.)

The next few years were spent caring more about who was dating whom, and if I did this or that, would that boy like me? What did his look mean? You know, teenage girl stuff. It wasn't until my junior year that I realized I'd wasted so much time and should have been trying and giving life my all; for me, and my future, regardless of what praise or feel good vibes I received from someone else.

As I said before, my parents' actions affected me and my outlook but I can't blame them for my choice to give up. Thank goodness I came to my senses and realized my mistake. As children, we always want our parents' praise and for them to be proud of us, that's just natural. I guess this was a lesson for me on finding my own value in my actions.

Christine asked what we were like at six years old, and would that six year old us be happy with who we are today.

I might not be a dancer or international diplomat, but I shake my thang on the dance floor and in the privacy of my own home; and I still play the peacekeeper between family members, friends and at work. I've learned a few lessons over the years and I try to be a good, polite, forgiving, non-judgmental and accepting person. I enjoy encouraging others and find that I receive so much more in return.

While I think my six-year-old self would tell me to lighten up a little and find my inner child more often, I think she would be happy with the me I am today.

Thank you, Christine, for bringing me back and forward again with enCouraging Bliss!

My objective this week is to find my inner child and ask her out to play.

"Inner Child" painting by Juliette West.

Interview and A Quick Note

2009-03-26T11:26:00.004-05:00

My interview with author Melody Lane is now up at Texty Ladies. If you stop over and visit, I hope you'll give a shout so I know you've been there. :)

Speaking of comments, I have not yet visited everyone's blog from the past few days and will do so sometime later today. I do so enjoy all of your online homes; they fill me with ideas, hope and inspiration!

I'll also be responding to Blisschick's (Christine) call to enCourage Bliss in a post this evening.

Hugs to all!

Pamela

Wishcasting Wednesday - Money

2009-03-25T20:01:00.011-05:00

Rub the Money Buddha

Whispering your wish

Expect results tomorrow

So make your wish delish!

Jamie has a knack for asking the question that needs to be asked.

This week, she asks: What is your money wish?

I've been in a particular funk the past few days over money issues. I even gave in to a pity party yesterday afternoon but it was short-lived. Like others participating in Wishcrafting Wednesday this week, I wish to be financially secure, enough to cover debt and have a little extra left over. We don't need millions, although it would be grand! ;)

There are so many worthwhile causes and people we could help with a little extra cash and I'd love to get moving on that as soon as possible. We do what we can but I'd love to do more.

I have a few projects in mind to help special teenagers in our community. There's that age group of kids who are too old for daycare but too young or immature to be on their own for lengthy periods of time. What to do? What about kids with special needs who are in the same predicament? Community centers, after school activities and part time jobs will fit the bill for most teens, but many are not set up for teens with special needs.

I would love to provide a place for these kids. A second home they can go to where they can learn job skills and social skills, participate in fun activities and hang out with friends, grab a sandwich and contribute to a positive, nurturing environment. A place where they can get the encouragement they need to build a more independent life. A place I wish could have been there for my son.

I believe that God has given me this wish and desire for a reason. What role I will play in its manifestation is up to Him. My wish is to secure our financial position so I can focus more clearly on the bigger wish.

Wordful Wednesday

2009-03-25T06:04:00.004-05:00

My husband returned to Indiana for his grandmother's surprise 80th birthday party where he'd visit with family and relatives he hasn't seen in many years; some he's never even met.

I sent along the digital camera so he could make sure to take lots of photos and come back and tell me all about everyone. I've only met his immediate family.

When he returned (a good time was had by all and yes, his grandmother was surprised!), this is one of the three photos he had taken:

Lucy

the family dog

Two photos of Lucy and one of a cat who may or may not still be living with his family. No human photos whatsoever. Sigh. I guess he was having too much fun. :) You've got to admit that Lucy, in all her scruffy cuteness, is quite photogenic!

For more Wordful Wednesday photos and fun, go to Seven Clown Circus.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - The Simple Things

2009-03-24T16:10:00.014-05:00

Life has been crazy lately, for all of us. We get so busy, it's hard to squeeze in a moment to sit down, let alone a grand gesture of kindness.

You know, it really doesn't have to be much... a smile, an opened door, a pat on the back...or a kind word. It's wonderful to orchestrate big, elaborate surprises or group efforts to benefit another, but those opportunities present themselves less frequently than the small, quiet moments that can mean the most. I believe that giving our time to another, being completely mindful and present, is one of the greatest gifts.

Claudia's "Simply Kind Tuesdays" helps me to slow down, quiet my mind and reflect on any kind acts I witnessed over the last week, and reminds me to find opportunities, no matter how small, to show kindness to another.

Thank you, Claudia, for this weekly gift and reminder. Thanks to the other participants for inspiring me with their kindness posts. :)

I hope you'll be inspired by the SKT participants, too!

Sleeping with Bread - Lists

2009-03-23T21:35:00.011-05:00

This past week has been a bit stressful and has had its highs and lows. I'm stealing Tara's idea and creating a list for today's post for Sleeping with Bread.

Not So Good:

Being expected to play entertainment director 24/7.

Worrying about Devi until I got the good news that she came through her surgery just fine.

Financial issues.

Exhausting my patience and flipping out on my son.

Being uncertain about whether or not I am reading certain situations correctly.

Good:

Having time off to spend with family.

Getting a good walk in while visiting the MOA.

Witnessing my son and a new friend getting along just fine.

Discovering a new (to us) restaurant/bar with excellent food AND excellent service!

Not waking up at 5:15 a.m. six days in a row!

Warmer days and clear skies at night. Don't you just love gazing at the moon and stars?

THIS WEEK'S GOAL: Examine negative or harmful thoughts then focus only on what is nurturing and productive.

Updates

2009-03-22T22:36:00.014-05:00

My interview with talented romance author Melody Lane will post this Thursday, March 26, at Texty Ladies.

Poetry Play Thursday will return the following week, when we'll start our celebration of National Poetry Month.

The Texty Ladies are publishing a free ezine (through free subscription) in May and are accepting submissions of the following:

paintings

drawings

photographs

flash fiction

poetry

essays

writing and art tutorials

writing and art workshops

and more...

related to Spring, beginnings, fresh starts, growth, new love, renewed love...you get the idea.

Send submissions and/or questions to: textyladies@gmail.com

Submission deadline: April 15, 2009

Compensation: As we are unable to pay for your work, compensation will be in the form of advertising and promotion. We hope to be able to compensate monetarily for future work at some point.

Devi, You're a Woman Now.

2009-03-21T20:50:00.010-05:00

Devi, a literary cat already

(Neil Gaiman, eh? Good taste, girl!)

Our little miss Devi was spayed this week and has now joined her sister in kitty womanhood. The act of having what would be the equivalent of a hysterectomy has made me think of them more as mature women (cats). Like a rite of passage. They came out of the fire stronger, resilient, brave.

I, of course, was a complete mess the entire time the kitties were separated from us. They've become such an important part of our lives, so dear and lovable; I couldn't bear to lose them. Why do we imagine the worst happening, almost prepare ourselves for the event, when it is so unlikely?

I'm just happy to report that Devi bounced back quickly and endured the two days of hissing and pseudo attacks she received from Kali until the vet scent disappeared and Kali recognized her once again. Now, she's back to being herself, a nurturing sister and sweetie pie. :)

(Pre-surgery. A current shot like this might be indelicate.)

A Quick Note

2009-03-20T21:05:00.003-05:00

I hope to get caught up on my blogs this weekend, the ones I visit and my own. I'm feeling depleted of all energy tonight so I'll be turning in early and hitting the blogs in the morning. I hope your evening is dreamy! :)

Dreamy Twilight by Narco

Poetry Play Thursday

2009-03-19T07:29:00.004-05:00

It's Poetry Play Thursday over at Texty Ladies today. Each week we explore a different form of poetry. Can you guess which one it is this week?

Smart Bitches Trashy Books
A blog by chicks with brains and looks
We love their bit on cover snark
But is their bite worse than their bark?

Click on the badge above to find out. :)

Wishcasting & Wordful Wednesday

2009-03-18T09:09:00.011-05:00

I'm so glad I started participating in Jamie Ridler's Wishcasting Wednesdays. Her prompts are so thought provoking. I always find discover a new perspective while contemplating my answer. Today's prompt is:

What do you wish to say yes to?

I wish to say yes to the promises of Spring: beginnings, growth, fresh starts, wondrous discoveries and life! Not only do I welcome warmth after a brutal winter, the beauty of green grass and budding leaves, petal blossoms and sweetly singing birds, but also the excitement of new projects at work and home.

The protective shield I've surrounded myself with is melting from the fire that's been ignited inside me. I'm ready to take risks and refuse to miss another opportunity to follow my dreams. I say yes to doing all the things I've always wanted to do but was too fearful to try. Perfectionism is overrated. I will enjoy the journey and not worry about the end result.

I say yes to the friendships I am building both in the blog world and physical world. I am hesitant to say "real" world because my blog friendships are real to me.

Oh, I could go on and on... Thank you, Jamie, for a prompt filled with so much promise!

You'll find more wishes at Starshyne Productions and Worldful Wednesday photos at Angie's 7 Clown Circus.

Will the real Pamela please stand up?

2009-03-17T22:06:00.003-05:00

I'm not myself today. Hopefully, I'll be me tomorrow.

UnSettled by Mira Torres

SWB - Love, Family & Money

2009-03-16T21:41:00.017-05:00

Taj Mahal

(Click on photo for a close up and just look at that price!)

We spent the day at MOA and I discovered beauty at LegoLand. We haven't been to the MOA in a few years and this lego creation wasn't there at our last visit. It got me thinking about what someone will do for love.

Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in loving memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during the birth of their fourteenth child, Gauhara Begum. It took about 16 years to complete with the landscaping, gardens and surrounding buildings taking another five years. Emporer Shah Jahan used these words to describe it:

Should guilty seek asylum here,

Like one pardoned, he becomes free from sin.

Should a sinner make his way to this mansion,

All his past sins are to be washed away.

The sight of this mansion creates sorrowing sighs;

And the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes.

In this world this edifice has been made;

To display thereby the creator's glory.

I can't help but think about the word "favorite" when referring to wives. Obviously, it tells us there were others. Being who I am, I can't help but struggle with this, but clearly, Emporer Shah Jahan had a deep love for Mumtaz.

While gazing at the lego version of this beautiful mausoleum, I asked my husband if his love was such that he'd build a Taj Mahal for me. His response was, "I would if I had a lot of money and a lot of servants." He knew he was off the hook knowing my thoughts on servants. I truly believe, however, that he'd build me the lego version in a heartbeat! ;)

The real Taj Mahal

What would you do for love?

~*~*~

In Sleeping with Bread, we're to talk about the highs and lows of our previous week and focus on something we have held or can hold onto to give us strength and carry us through the tough times.

This week's lows:

1. Feelings of uncertainty about my job.

2. Struggles with my son and some of his vocal tics and demand for constant, and I mean constant, attention.

3. Thoughts of despair and wondering if some things will never change.

This week's highs:

1. I kicked butt and completed some projects at work that were nagging at my brain.

2. Warmer weather!

3. More sleep.

4. An exciting project I'm working on with my fellow Texty Ladies!

I held on to the knowledge that my husband loves me and, I think, had some idea of the challenges we'd face when he moved up and took on a ready made family. With regard to my job, I'm telling myself every day that I can only try to do my best and nothing more. Get involved, acquire new and marketable skills, and do my best.

If you're hungry, go here for more bread.

Sacred Life Sunday - Comfort Food

2009-03-15T18:41:00.012-05:00

It may be a little late in the day to talk about comfort food since Spring has almost sprung, but we had chili and cornbread for dinner tonight and I want to sing its praises; not mine specifically, but comfort food in general.

It reached a balmy 52 degrees here today which was a welcome relief after below zero temps and bitter winds in the last few weeks. It seemed a little strange making this meal with the weather so lovely outside; almost like a last hurrah for winter.

There's just something about chili and cornbread, warm soup and crackers, mashed potatoes, casseroles (hot dish here in MN) and anything cheesy or gooey that comforts us and lifts our mood. I don't know that you could call it sacred but comfort food is definitely a happy place for many.

I've made a promise to myself to try to eat healthier foods this year but I don't think that means excluding these foods. Moderation is key, right? And many of these foods do hold nutritional value. During my few months with WeightWatchers, I learned oodles about portion control and that it is okay to enjoy what many would consider "non-diet" foods as long as it isn't too often. When you do decide to splurge, enjoy every minute of it. Turn off the television, put on some lovely music, light the candles, and savor every bite of those chocolate chip cookies. Mmmmmm....

Now that we're heading into Spring and salad season, I doubt that cornbread and chili will be on the menu again soon. I raise my wineglass high and salute the goodness of comfort food...until we meet again. (Okay, so I'm a little silly today.... sue me.)

A Home for Fairies

2009-03-14T22:31:00.010-05:00

Fairy Gardens

Fairy Garden Pedestal

I don't know if I'll ever get my garden to where I want it since I'm one of those people who will pore over gardening books in the winter, imagine an incredible oasis in my own backyard, plant a few flowers...and then not feel like watering. I love the idea of it but when it gets right down to it, I don't want to put in the effort. I've been wanting to create a fairy garden for a few years now and haven't done so but maybe that's where my efforts should lie this year. Try for small scale.

Celtic Fairy House

I mean, how cute is this? Can't you just imagine a little fairy living here? Heck, I want to live here! So charming.

I'll let you know if I actually make my fairy garden fantasy a reality. It's only March....I've got time. :)

(Clicking on the photos will take you to enchanted places.)

Rest and Relaxation

2009-03-13T19:43:00.004-05:00

Ahhhhhhh....decompress.....relax....hop on the couch and read a magazine....

That's what I'm gonna do in the next few days. I'm finally taking a few vacation days and have only one appointment scheduled during that time. Usually, my vacation days consist of cramming in as many appointments (for my husband, son, self and cats) as possible so I can reduce the amount of PTO I need to use later.

We're not traveling anywhere but plan to hit the MOA, take in a movie, visit a museum or two and try not to spend too much money. We hope to visit my in-laws in Indiana this summer so this vacation will be more low-key. It usually takes a few days to decompress so by the time I'm finally relaxed, I'll be close to heading back to work but that's okay. I'll enjoy the reduced responsibility and no commute.

It's not say I won't be working some. The Texty Ladies are putting together a newsletter and ezine so I'll spend time on that but it's something I thoroughly enjoy doing. I'm so excited about this ezine and will share more about it at a later date.

I hope all my blogosphere friends have a lovely weekend filled with fun and relaxation. Ahhhh... My shoulders are slowly starting to settle and thoughts of work are slipping away....

News & Contest

2009-03-12T11:36:00.005-05:00

Poetry Play Thursday is on today at my group blog Texty Ladies.

Look for my upcoming interview with talented author Melody Lane, which will post at Texty Ladies. I'll let you know when I have a confirmed date.

I also wanted to let you know that my friend and author Jane E. Jones is hosting a contest at Texty Ladies where she's giving away a romance themed gift bag filled with all sorts of groovy stuff! The details can be found here.

Wishcasting Wednesday

2009-03-11T13:43:00.006-05:00

[For WORDFUL WEDNESDAY - Please scroll down.)

Our beautiful and inspirational Wishtress Jamie asks today:

What do you wish to change?

My dreams.

More specifically, my night dreams. I will go into this further when I finally post my first Full Moon Dreamboard but right now I'll just say that for many years, at least all of my adult years, I have not looked forward to going to sleep. My dreams are odd or disturbing, as my husband can attest to after listening to some weird stories from me, and I rarely feel rested in the morning.

I'll say more in another post but for now, I wish to have more pleasant dreams.

By Josephine Wall

Visit Wishcasting Wednesday by Jamie's Starshyne Productions for more wishes.

Wordful Wednesday - WTF?

2009-03-11T00:01:00.002-05:00

"WTF!"" My faith in humanity has been restored!

My husband and I stumbled upon this very unique car at the B&N parking lot. Everyone who happened by did a double take. Let me just ask one thing. Why reptiles, amphibians and rodents?

Go here for more Wordful Wednesday posts.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Facebook Experiment

2009-03-09T22:18:00.005-05:00

Over at that incredible time suck of a social network, Facebook, I discovered the Karma Experiment - Pay It Forward.

Objective:

Start something positive by sending good karma to every one of your friends by inviting them to this experiment.

Experiment:

To increase a person's karma by doing a random act of kindness.

In the instructions, it says not only to invite all of your friends to participate but to also commit one random act of kindness and grade your life improvement after participating.

How is our life affected by sprinkling random acts of kindness all around our individual worlds? We should be commiting these acts with the receiver's benefit in mind but after doing so, how has it changed us? What have we learned from it?

Go on, give it a try this week and report back with what you have discovered.

Happy sprinkling!

Sleeping with Bread - In Troubled Times

2009-03-09T05:48:00.015-05:00

What do we hold on to when times are tough and life is uncertain?

FAITH, HOPE and LOVE.

"There is nothing that wastes the body like worry, and one who has any faith in God should be ashamed to worry about anything whatsoever." ~ Mahatma Gandhi

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God...shall guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:6,7

We must believe that our struggles will end. Maybe this recession was meant to happen as a monumental correction to what men have created. It's time to "let go and let God," as "they" say, and have FAITH.

"Courage, it would seem, is nothing less than the power to overcome danger, misfortune, fear, injustice, while continuing to affirm inwardly that life with all its sorrows is good; that everything is meaningful even if in a sense beyond our understanding; and that there is always tomorrow." ~ Dorothy Thompson

"Hope is like a road in the country; there was never a road, but when many people walk on it, the road comes into existence." ~ Lin Yutang

We can not succumb to the negative forces all around us. We must not give up but know that our troubles will not go on forever or defeat us. He has said He will not give us more than we can handle. It may not always feel that way but I know that it is true. Look forward, not down. Claim HOPE.

"Love is a choice you make from moment to moment." ~ Barbara de Angelis

"Love, like truth and beauty, is concrete. Love is not fundamentally a sweet feeling; not, at heart, a matter of sentiment, attachment, or being "drawn toward." Love is active, effective, a matter of making reciprocal and mutually beneficial relation with one's friends and enemies." ~ Carter Heyward

During difficult times, it is easy to think about ourselves, what we need to make things right, what God and the world need to give us to change our situation. Why not step outside ourselves and think about what we can do for others; how can we ease their suffering? How can we do this without seeking reward? Let's look to LOVE.

Click here for more nourishment.

Sacred Life Sunday

2009-03-08T22:20:00.004-05:00

Tonight,

I need a little down time.

No,

Sacred Time.

Tomorrow,

I'll be back with bread.

Blogthings seems to think so

2009-03-07T23:23:00.002-06:00

You Are a Playwright

You are a highly literate wordsmith. You love both reading and writing.

You are also a natural storyteller. You can turn a mediocre anecdote into a riveting tale.

You find people and all aspects of life fascinating. No topic is off limits for you.

In modern times, you would make a good filmmaker or novelist.

What's Your Medieval Profession?

Now, if I can only make it a reality!

Haiku Friday - Dirty Snow

2009-03-06T23:49:00.005-06:00

dirty snow crunches

beneath my worn boots, winter's

tarnished finery

It seems like winter will never end. My friends, co-workers and I walk around in a funk, waiting for something to happen, something to change. Could we be experiencing spring fever? To make it bearable, I tell myself that the dirt and muck and ever changing weather patterns are a sign of what's to come. Spring is just around the corner. For now, just enjoy the fresh, crisp air and crunch beneath my feet.

<-Click here.

Photo taken from Montreal's Daily Photo.

Poetry Play Thursday Starts Today

2009-03-05T05:54:00.000-06:00

I hope you'll head over to Texty Ladies today where I'm posting my new meme, Poetry Play Thursday. We'll start off easy and move on to more difficult forms as we gain confidence.

Why not give it a try?

Wishcasting Wednesday - Help

2009-03-04T09:39:00.000-06:00

(PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO PRIOR POST FOR WORDFUL WEDNESDAY.)

Wishtress Jamie asks the following question today for Wishcasting Wednesday:

What help do you wish to receive?

Hmmm, this is a tough one. I have a difficult time asking for help. Seems to me I should be able to handle things on my own but I know I want to be there for others. Why I am having such a hard time with this?

I could say I'd like help with freeing my creativity or furthering my career. I could ask for help with a number of things but I think I'll make this a practical wish.

I wish to receive a boon to our finances. We were going along fine, meeting our bills and on time, stashing away a little for the future when this whole economy thing happened. Now we're turned upside down. I'm not whining. Worse things could happen. We're certainly not the only ones in this rocky boat. But, it would ease our minds and lower our stress level immensely if we could just get a break in this area. Soon.

I'd like to wish this wish for everyone struggling with their finances (which might just be everyone!).

Click on the photo above or link to Wishcasting Wednesday to read more wishes.

Wordful Wednesday - Sisters

2009-03-03T23:13:00.000-06:00

Devi ** Kali

I love this photo.

It was taken the day after Kali was spayed.

We could see in her face the pain she was experiencing,

and were thankful when the painkiller took hold.

What I love about this photo

is the tender look on Devi's face

as she gazes at her sister.

My husband said that Devi followed him around all day

when Kali was at the animal hospital.

I'm sure she wondered why her sister was away.

When we brought her home that night,

Devi watched her sister's every move with concern

making sure to do so from a distance.

The next day,

Devi ventured close

and hissed because her sister had a different scent.

As the day wore on,

Kali was accepted again

and Devi's love for her was captured here.

Texty Ladies News

2009-03-03T01:21:00.000-06:00

We're amping things up over at Texty Ladies, my group blog. We'll be posting more artist and author interviews, writing exercises, book reviews and more. We're creating a newsletter that will be distributed periodically by subscription and we're also working on an ezine!

I'm starting a new meme called Poetry Play Thursday which will feature, you guessed it....poetry! April is National Poetry Month so, hopefully, this meme will help us prepare for it. You can click on the badge in the sidebar of this blog and it will take you to the website. I hope you'll give it a try!

Sleeping with Bread - Mixed Bag

2009-03-01T21:50:00.000-06:00

I've been into making lists lately so for this week's Sleeping with Bread, I'll list the good and not so good about this past week.

Not So Good:

1. I continued to battle my cough this week although it's getting lighter and less often.

2. My husband came down with some sort of virus and developed a runny nose, headache and body aches but, thankfully, he has not yet developed a cough.

3. The heavens opened and poured snow down upon us. In fact, authors Neil Gaiman and Anne Frasier both called it Snowmagedden on Twitter.

Good:

4. I'm thrilled to have several semi-creative projects in the works: interview questions for a fabulous author to be posted at my Texty Ladies blog, questions for two different feature groups, teaching myself how to use two different software packages and preparing forms in each, creating a newsletter for Texty Ladies, begin work on an ezine and new meme for the same, and I took on the Haiku Friday meme.

5. My book club, the Occasional Readers Society ("ORS"), met at my house last week. (Side note: We'd prefer it be the CRS (Constant Readers Society) if at all possible but you know how it is!) I'll admit that I was stressed out during preparation for the meeting because the house was in shambles and I didn't have the funds to plan the meal I would have liked but it all worked out in the end and I think everyone had a good time. The book selection I chose for the month was "The Girl With No Shadow," which is a continuation of the story "Chocolat" by Joanne Harris. Since both books are set in France, I chose a menu of mainly French food. Since the story contained a lot of symbolism and mythology, and a good sprinkling of magic, a lively discussion was had. I didn't realize how stressed I was about hosting the meeting until it was over and I felt such relief!

While my husband did develop a cold and my son's congestion has not completely gone, I am thankful they are both feeling better and am grateful my virus is mostly gone. I'm looking forward to a good week ahead and pray that each of you have one also!

Sacred Life Sunday - Quiet Moments

2009-03-01T12:42:00.000-06:00

Weekends can be such fun, going to a movie or museum, hitting the shops, dining out and getting together with friends and family. There is one part of the weekend, however, that I cherish beyond measure. Those peaceful moments after waking when my husband and I can cuddle and talk quietly about our day, our week, our plans for the future, dreams, hopes and desires are sacred to me.

I felt it shelter to speak to you. ~Emily Dickinson

My husband works every other weekend and on weeknights we're always busy having dinner, running errands and hanging out with our son. Any quiet time we can share together before the craziness of the day takes over blesses our relationship and gives us what we need to carry on.

I pray that no matter how crazy life is, no matter what it throws our way, we make these moments a priority.

Shared joy is a double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow. ~Swedish Proverb

Haiku Friday - Saguaro Moon

2009-02-27T23:02:00.000-06:00

bright saguaro moon

beckons and bewitches us

keeper of secrets

~*~*~

There is something about a full moon that entrances me.

I wonder how many dreams have been dreamed

and wishes whispered under its watchful post.

Wishcasting Wednesday - Sending Some Love

2009-02-25T06:48:00.001-06:00

Jamie's wishcasting prompt today is:

Who do you wish to send some love?

My wish today is to send love out to my good friend Jane. Jane and her family have had to deal with some tragic events the last few months and my heart goes out to them. No one should have to lose loved ones the way they have. I'd like to gather up all the love and peace in the world and beam it directly into their hearts, minds and spirits. They have some very rough days ahead of them but I pray the burden will be lessened with the knowledge that they are loved and cared for not only by their friends and family but by the One whose love surpasses all.

Please join me in sending them love and strength.

I love you, Jane!

~*~*~

Join other wishcasters at Starshyne Productions.

Sacred Life Sunday - Me Time

2009-02-22T22:43:00.000-06:00

Orange Sunrise by Petr Kratochvil

Sacred.

One definition: Reverently dedicated to some person, purpose,

or object: a morning hour sacred to study.

I love my men, my husband and son, but everyone needs a little time to themselves.

On the weekends that my husband works and my son is with his dad, I get a good 7 or 8 hours to myself. I always look forward to this time and dream about the creative projects I can work on and hopefully complete. The problem is, I rarely get to those projects.

I usually end up either out at the shops or planted on the couch with one or both kitties curled up on my chest. I don't usually watch much T.V. so when I have the time to myself, I like to watch a few hours of HGTV or a chick flick that my husband might not appreciate. I know I should be writing or drawing or even doing laundry or cleaning the house.

I guess I just really need that down time of doing nothing.

The absolute best part is when I come home after dropping my husband off at work to an almost empty house (kitties are home). I've secured my latte and banana bread and can now enjoy them while I catch up on emails and check out my favorite blogs. It's wonderful thinking about the day ahead when I can do everything or nothing. It's time to push away the guilt and just enjoy the day.

Art Inspiration

2009-02-22T02:41:00.000-06:00

Two of my favorite artists: Gustav Klimt and Alphonse Mucha. Oh, what inspiration!

Medicine (Hygieia) ~ Gustav Klimt

Water Serpents II ~ Gustav Klimt

Emilie Floege ~ Gustav Klimt

Les Saisons ~ Alphonse Mucha

Job ~ Alphonse Mucha

By Alphonse Mucha

What mad genius these men possessed!

Wordful Wednesday (For Wishcasting - Please Scroll Down)

2009-02-18T05:52:00.001-06:00

Mom (1928-2008) Dad (1928-2007)

We hated having them move to the nursing home

but Mom had Alzheimers and was starting to wander at night

so she needed to live somewhere secure.

Dad had a few heart attacks and kidney failure

and wasnt expected to make it each time.

He required medical care we couldn't provide.

At least they could be together .

I miss you.

For more Wordful Wednesdays, go to SevEn cLoWn CirCus.

For Wishcasting Wednesdays, please scroll down.

Wishcasting Wednesday - To the Moon and Stars

2009-02-17T23:46:00.000-06:00

Wishtress Extraordinaire Jamie's prompt today is:

Where do you wish to go?

I wish to go:

1. To Indiana and visit my in-laws.
2. Up north to visit my sister and her family.
3. San Francisco. I spent the day there once many moons ago and would love to go back.
4. Japan. My husband, son and I will get there some day! Maybe during cherryblossom season.
5. On a grand tour of Europe.
6. To a zone where creativity flows and I'm able to produce my visions and express my thoughts.
7. Visit my dear friend Jane in Ohio.
8. Dancing with my husband.

More wishes at Wishcasting Wednesdays.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Nourishment

2009-02-16T22:01:00.000-06:00

We are living in a world today where lemonade is made from artificial flavors and furniture polish is made from real lemons. ~Alfred E. Newman

Isn't it the truth? Somewhere down the line, things have gone askew. I know my eating habits have. It's time to be more kind to my body and start eating healthier.

I have some weird food allergies which make it difficult to just pick up something healthy, like carrot sticks or an apple, and munch away. In my teen years, it was discovered that I had become allergic to almost all fruits and vegetables unless they were heated first. Apparently, the heat destroys the protein I am allergic to. After years of loving oranges and watermelon, fresh broccoli and more, I could now only eat those things after blasting the protein which in turn wrecked the taste for me.

After years of trying to eat semi-healthy without putting forth extra effort (and really not succeeding at it), I've decided to make a concerted effort to be kind to my body and try eating healthier again. It's so easy to slide into consuming mostly processed foods when they're so convenient and lack the protein I must avoid.

While I was sick last week, foods tasted differently, everything was too salty, and it reminded me that yes, all these processed foods ARE too salty and not just in taste. It also had me thinking about how I feel better physically when I'm eating right. That extends to my mental well-being as well. Funny how that works!

I think it's important to indulge in a big fat chocolate brownie once in a while and enjoying a tasty margarita with the girls now and again. That's being kind to our soul. :) But from this point forward, I'm making a pledge to be kinder to me by taking the time to heat up those veggies and bake those fruits into a pie instead of foregoing them altogether.

Would you like to join me in this pledge?

We are indeed much more than what we eat, but what we eat can nevertheless help us to be much more than what we are. ~Adelle Davis

Check out On a Limb with Claudia for more Simply Kind Tuesday posts.

Sleeping with Bread - Recovering

2009-02-15T23:46:00.001-06:00

It would be fair to say this last week has been a difficult one. I managed to catch a bad virus that has been going around at work and then just when I started to turn the corner, Mother Nature paid a visit and robbed me of all remaining energy. I don't really want to complain because people have it much worse off (what with natural and man-made disasters and all) and I really haven't been that sick in some time so I'm just going to be thankful it's almost over.

I've also had a hard time mustering up interest in just about anything I do. Maybe it's the winter blahs but everything seems like such a bore. Maybe you know what I mean; that "Is this all there is?" feeling? I've just got to keep keepin' on and this too shall pass.

Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion.-- Buddha

I'm going to be patient with myself and my less than positive mood and pray that its season is a short one.

On a brighter note, we are beginning a new week, most of the bills are paid, and the temps are creeping up. Being sick last week, I did not get to the art projects I had planned and didn't complete a Full Moon DreamBoard for the full moon on the 9th, but I can get started on those projects now.

My words don't sound very uplifting or inspiring today but I'm satisfied with being at least a step above whining. I find sustenance and inspiration in the blogs I read so I think I'll pay some of them a visit before calling it a night.

Have a beautiful week.

Thanks and I'm Back

2009-02-12T22:11:00.000-06:00

I want to thank those of you who sent me well wishes while I've been sick this past week. Your kindness is deeply felt and much appreciated. :) I'm starting to feel better now but am still beat down and tired.

I hope to have some time in the next few days to get caught up on reading everyone's blogs. Oh, how I've missed my daily visits!

Over at my group blog, Texty Ladies, I've posted a few questions for the writers out there. Please hop over and check out today's post and if you feel moved to do so, please leave a comment with your thoughts.

Thank you and may you have a blessed evening!

Under the Weather

2009-02-08T17:02:00.000-06:00

I'm not feeling well today; fighting off a cough and cold. The laptop hasn't been turned on much this weekend at all. I hope to post a Sacred Sunday later this evening but we'll see how things go. I hope all is well in the Internet world.

Awards!!

2009-02-05T09:49:00.000-06:00

I'm SO excited! Gypsy from Creative Soul Explosion has just awarded me my first individual award! I am so honored to receive it and want to thank Gypsy from the bottom of my heart. I have been having so much fun at this blog and am meeting so many wonderful people. I realize that I don't know all of you very well but I'm looking forward to getting to know you better.

It's funny how we can feel an almost immediate connection with people we meet online. We read their words and they make us laugh, cry, thrill and commiserate. From Gypsy's comments, reading her profile and her blogs, I feel a certain kinship with her as we seem like sisters of the heart. Thank you, Gypsy, for your gift and encouragement!

I would like to tag and nominate the following incredibly creative and talented people for this award. I wish I could tag you all as I have received gifts of beauty and inspiration from so many!

1. Mel at Melsdream

2. Genie Sea at Realty-Insanity

3. Molly at Her Speak

4. Jamie Ridler at Jamie Ridler Studios and Starshyne Productions

5. Mary-LUE at Life, the Universe and Everything

6. Jennlui at A Trinket Treasury

Now, to name 7 Things I Love:

1. My God. I've had an up and down relationship with my God over the years and I pray that will mature with time. I've never blamed Him for anything or turned my back completely but I haven't always felt close. This is my doing, of course, and I'm grateful His arms are always open for this prodigal daughter.

2. My husband. He is the most supportive husband in the world and I am oh, so lucky he's mine! We get each other. He took a chance, moved many miles and away from his family just to be with my son and me. He's handsome, intelligent and creative, gives the best hand, foot and back rubs in the universe and even thinks I'm sexy in my mismatched jammies with mismatched socks, medusa hair and no make-up! Thank you, honey, for sharing your life with me.

3. My son. For many years, it was just the two of us and I know it was difficult for him when my husband entered the picture, but he's developed a good relationship with my husband and for that I am thankful. My son's imagination blows me away and he'll sneak a funny line in now and again that will double me over. :D I am humbled by his bravery and love him beyond measure. I look forward to watching you continue to grow in your adult years, punkin'. I guess you'll want me to stop calling you that, eh?

4. My family. My brothers, sister and I, along with our spouses, kids and their kids experienced the loss of both of my parents in the last year and a half. We've always been fairly close and made sure we got together for holidays and such and I wondered if that would change once my parents were no longer here. It was difficult doing all the things you have to do when someone passes but we got through it okay and still get together on occasion. If it's at all possible, I feel even more love for them now than before and I pray we will always make time for each other.

5. My friends. I love that feeling when you're with your friends and gabbing about something and you start to laugh, then get on a roll and just can't stop! Tears are streaming down your face and your gut starts to hurt. I'm so thankful I have friends who can share those times with me and who have also stayed with me through the not so laughable times.

6. My kitties. Devi and Kali are so much fun and I just love them like crazy! They have such different personalities: Devi is our little catdog as she likes to play fetch and have her tummy rubbed. She also loves to snuggle. Kali is the wild one and her antics, while often naughty, are quite funny and are good for a story at the watercooler. She's also very sweet and will sleep on your face if you'll let her.

7. My writing and art. For many years, I pushed them aside and I'm still getting used to exploring that side of me again. It's a wonderful feeling, although sometimes frustrating, and with the help of many of you and your wonderful blogs, I'm excited about the endless ideas there are to explore and projects to try out. Thank you.

Please stop over at my group blog, Texty Ladies, as we were awarded there as well! :D

Wordful Wednesday - Hey, kitty, ain't it great bein' a girl?

2009-02-04T11:12:00.001-06:00

(Please scroll down for Wishcasting Wednesday.)

It's Wordful Wednesday again and I need HELP!!

This is our cutie pie kitten Kali. She is 7 months old and quite a handful. As of Monday, she is now in heat for the second time in the last month. We are about to tear our hair out from all the crying and whining and crouching in an unladylike manner. Yes, we should have spayed her and her sister Devi before now but the funds weren't there and we had set February as our time to get it done. Sigh... We feel for the poor thing and wish we could take away her suffering but there will be NO matchmaking for these kitties! I sometimes wonder if Kali questions why no suitors have come calling at our door. Maybe she understands that the 10, 15, 20 degree below zero weather might be holding them back. I'd hate for her to get a complex!

Please pray that Kali, and we, gain some peace!

For more Wordful Wednesday posts, go to 7 Cloud Circus.

Wishcasting Wednesday - On Becoming

2009-02-04T05:55:00.000-06:00

Jamie's question today for Wishcasting Wednesday is:

What do you wish to become?

There are a host of things I could answer here but in keeping with one of my recent posts I will say this:

My son turned eighteen in January and you'd think I would have it figured out by now but what our kids need from us sometimes changes. Some things should be constant, like the values we try to instill in them, hopefully visible in the way we live our lives. But as our kids get older and learn to tie their shoes, say please and thank you, ride a bike, finish homework first, be considerate on a date and fill out a resume, we parents need to be creative in our responses and approach while raising them.

I'm reaching the point now that many parents would have reached at an earlier age with their child, and I hope I can handle it as gracefully as some. How do I let go? How do I hold on to the bond my son and I share, yet help him separate from me and become his own man? In my head, I'm fairly certain I know what to do, but my heart? My son has what a therapist called a "Peter Pan complex," meaning he hasn't, up until now, wanted to grow up. It was just the two of us for many years and his preoccupation with me has been almost obsessive in nature. But, now, something has changed, clicked, become clear for him and he is now looking forward. It makes me feel good that he seems to have turned this corner but now I have to prepare myself for what must always come: the time when our children go up and begin to lead their own lives.

I wish to become the mother my son needs to help him gain independence and become a strong, confident young man.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Random Acts

2009-02-03T05:46:00.000-06:00

It's been difficult coming up with something to talk about today for Simply Kind Tuesdays. I've tried to think of a kind act I witnessed or one I performed and I'm coming up with zilch. Oh, sure, there's the every day niceties like allowing others to walk before you and opening doors for them but nothing that jumps out at me as "Wow, wasn't that nice?"

For one of my 101 in 1001 goals, I listed that I must perform at least one random act of kindness per month. Doesn't sound like much. It should be weekly or daily but in my mind, this random act of kindness should be something significant. I try to be kind to everyone at all times but I want to step it up a notch and go out of my way to be kind. Not for the glory or thank you I'd receive, just to truly help out another person and make their day a little brighter.

So, instead of walking around looking for acts of kindness in others, my pledge is to actively seek out ways I can make a difference in someone else's life today.

You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you. ~John Wooden

Sleeping with Bread - Friends and Tools

2009-02-02T05:33:00.000-06:00

This past week has been a busy one with visits to the dentist and doctor, interviews, and preparation for our Super Bowl party. Our party was a lot of fun but oh so much work. There's always a point in the midst of shopping, cleaning and cooking when my husband and I look at each other and ask, "Why are we doing this?"

We keep our house up okay but we're certainly not cleaning fanatics so there's always a bit of work before hosting a party but we're always glad once we've done it. This party was no exception and we know why we do it: we enjoy spending time with our friends in a relaxed environment with good food and a fun atmosphere. I've always enjoyed throwing parties but I wasn't sure my husband would feel the same way. Every since we decided to hold a Halloween party last year, he was hooked! He was just as obsessed with details as I can be. :)

We had a good time at yesterday's party and I think our guests did as well. This is what I'm thankful for this week: good friends (and family), good food, and good times. We had a somewhat odd mix of people over but everyone was friendly to each other and it felt more like one big group than several little groups. We sure know how to pick 'em!

What I am least thankful for this week are the OCD behaviors my son has been exhibiting lately. These behaviors will arrive, stay for awhile, and then are replaced by others or we get a temporary reprieve. The current behavior patterns are especially difficult to deal with and my husband and I are at our wits end as to what to do. If I haven't said so before, my son has Aspergers Syndrome (high functioning autism), Tourettes (mild) and Scoliosis. He does pretty well, is having a fantastic senior year at school, and for the most part is having a better time of it at home. It's just once in awhile, when these repetitive, OCD behaviors kick in that life gets more difficult.

I'm participating in NaBloPoMo again this month and switched it from my Dreaming in Digital blog to here. The theme this month is "Want." What I want the most right now is to find some tools we can use to help my son stop his current disruptive behavior patterns. Therapists have really been of no help in the past but if we could find one who could actually give us tools to use and not just tell us what we already know, I would be eternally grateful.

Have a very happy and productive week friends!

Thankful

2009-01-30T13:35:00.000-06:00

I want to thank the many of you who commented on my blogs this past week. Your words have been so warm and encouraging and I've felt inspired after visiting your blogs.

We hear so much about the negative aspects of the Internet and the people who pray on the vulnerability of others, it is refreshing to read about and be a part of a gathering of people who are striving to be their best. People who follow their dreams and encourage others to do the same. I'm excited to get to know all of you better and hope that I can give you in return the kindness and support that you have shown me.

Blessings to you all!

Wishcasting Wednesdays - Creativity

2009-01-28T19:11:00.000-06:00

I'm so glad I found Wishcasting Wednesdays hosted by Jamie Ridler at Starshyne Productions!

"Be a maker of magic and a tender of wishes. It’s easy. Answer the wish prompt above on your blog and then add a direct link to your post in the box below. Support wishes by visiting other participants, leaving a comment saying “As (insert name) wishes for her/himself, so I wish for her/him also.” It’s that simple. There is great power in wishing together."

This is a lovely idea and I'd like to support the dreams of others so I'm going to join this group. Today's prompt is: What do you wish to create?

My first wish is:

I'd like to break through the wall that's been holding me back

and start leading a more creative life.

I want to create a more creative life. In that regard, I'd like to try art journaling, collage and other mixed media but am not sure where to start. I write and draw but would like to try something more. If anyone has any book, website, or class recommendations they'd like to share, please do so in the Comments. Thank you!

Others are casting their wishes at Starshyne Productions.

WW: Talent

2009-01-27T22:39:00.000-06:00

Trent Reznor & Robin Finck of NIN

There's something about musicians that drives us ladies wild. They don't even have to look pretty (although we certainly don't mind (and in this case, Trent Reznor and Robin Finck look mighty fine!), they just have to have talent. There's a magic to talent that makes it so sexy and so addictive that young girls and grown women will bare their breasts, toss out their panties, and just plain make fools of themselves just to get near it.

What exactly is it about talent that illicits this kind of response? In the case of Trent Reznor and the current lineup of Nine Inch Nails, I believe the magic lies in his/their ability to show intelligence, high energy and raw power, softened by sensitivity and self-exploration, with some musical genius thrown in for good measure.

My husband and I were lucky enough to catch one of the November Lights in the Sky tour shows and were completely blown away. We saw them back in 2005 and were thrilled then but this was even better!

So, tell me, whose talent brings out the craziness in you?

For more Wordful Wednesday posts, go to Angies Circus.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Bus Drivers

2009-01-27T05:50:00.000-06:00

I want to give a big shout out today to a group of people who have to deal with a bunch of grumpy customers every morning....you guessed it, bus drivers. There are probably just as many grumpy bus drivers as there are passengers but every once in a while you run across one whose light shines brightly every morning which serves to cut through the fog and lighten our mood. I was lucky enough to enjoy the spirit of one such bus driver this morning.

Her cheery "good morning" and warm "bye now" sounded genuine each time a passenger got on or off the bus and her sweet smile simply confirmed it. Whenever someone sneezed, a "gezundheit" followed it. Maybe it doesn't sound like much but when you're half asleep, bundled up in several layers of clothing just to weather the 22 below to 15 above weather, and squeezed between a freezing cold window and a giant who is rammed into you because he's determined to claim his seat, this unforced cheeriness is a boon to the soul.

I've had bus drivers who swore, harassed riders, talked incessantly on the phone (a big no-no) and worse. I also had a bus driver who charmed us with his radio DJ commentary, another who took on a pilot persona, and one fine man who sang Christmas carols during the month of December.

If any bus drivers out there happen to be reading this, thank you so much for your cheery disposition and your kindness when waiting for us to run to the bus carrying three bulging bags and slipping on the ice. Thank you for driving safely and still getting us to work on time. And, a big thank you for putting up with a bunch of grumpy customers!

Sleeping with Bread #2

2009-01-25T21:21:00.000-06:00

Well, this last week certainly flew by! Here it is Monday again and it's time for Sleeping with Bread.

I had lunch with a girlfriend yesterday that I've known for what seems like forever. We haven't seen each other since Halloween so we ended up chatting away for four hours at the restaurant. I think the fact that she kept ordering cosmos helped to keep them from kicking us out the door!

I always look forward to the times I'll have by myself but often end up getting very little accomplished because that time alone seems so foreign to me and I can't settle into my own skin. I felt very much "me" though while rehashing old times with my friend and catching up on current news. We don't see each other very often but it never feels like it when we do finally get together. I'm happy that we were able to have that time together and feel that connection.

I felt less like me and less connected when at work this past week. I enjoy what I do and love the people I work with, but I've had some trouble feeling present when I'm there. Outside tasks and interests have stolen the thrill of my day job (has there ever really been a thrill?). I want to do more than just adequate work; I want to knock people out with my brilliance! My mission this week is to be more focused and present at work.

Sacred Life Sunday #2

2009-01-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

(All art by Elena Ray)

I'm still new to Sacred Life Sunday and mulling over exactly what the word sacred means to me. I guess I think of it as something we set apart and hold in the highest regard. It is something so special that we will not allow anything to interfere with its place in our life. I believe it is also something we deem to be holy.

Dictionary.com defines it as:

Dedicated to or set apart for the worship of a deity.

Worthy of religious veneration: the sacred teachings of the Buddha.

Made or declared holy: sacred bread and wine.

Dedicated or devoted exclusively to a single use, purpose, or person: sacred to the memory of her sister; a private office sacred to the President.

Worthy of respect; venerable.

Of or relating to religious objects, rites, or practices.

So, by these definitions, what do I hold sacred; especially on this particular Sunday?Moments. There are those moments when the clouds of everyday thought begin to part, and true clarity becomes real. Some bright truth is suddenly clear and we wish to take a snapshot to forever preserve that moment in our mind and memory.

Like when in the midst of chaos, you realize you'd better cherish the moment you're in with your children because they will grow up before you know it. We all know this in our head but this truth has a way of piercing our heart when we least expect it.

Or, when it becomes clear that all the fussing and fidgeting in the world will not change what another thinks of us and that we must not change who we are but become even more us. I can't count the times I've tried to become someone else in the hope of receiving love from men who were not right for me.

There is also that moment when we know we must finally go after our dreams because they're unlikely to just fall into our lap.

Some people don't seem to struggle with this very much but I know I do. I've always wanted to be a writer, artist and dancer. What do I do? I'm a legal assistant at a law firm. A great law firm, mind you, but this is not exactly what I set out to do. Finally, in my 40's, I've decided to push back the fear and chase after those dreams. Well, at least two of them. Its unlikely I'll become a professional dancer at this point but I can still shake my thang with the best of 'em!

As for the writing and art, I've been blogging for over a year now, have written some flash fiction and poetry, and plan to write some short stories for submission. I used to draw way back in school but haven't done much since. The tendonitis in my right hand gives me trouble off and on but I don't want that to stop me from drawing again. When I'm unable to do that because holding the pencil hurts too much, I can try art journaling, digital art and photography. I've been so inspired by the work of the artists I've linked to in my sidebar along with many other artists, like Elena Ray, I'm just itching to try some new things!

A sacred moment might also be when we are completely at peace and accepting of our place in life. We might plan to make changes in the future; and if we don't, they'll most likely still occur. But during those sacred moments, we are happy with the foundation we've built (family, friends, beliefs, values) and know we can survive whatever the winds of change might blow our way.

Our minds hold so much that we tend to think of many of these truths in a "yeah, yeah, I know" surface only way. The sacred moments I refer to here are the ones that reach our hearts.

I look forward to my next sacred moment and pray that my heart and mind are open to receiving it.

May you experience a sacred moment soon!

Wordful Wednesday

2009-01-21T11:53:00.000-06:00

Wordful Wednesday, hosted by Angie, is for showcasing a photo and writing all about it. This is my first time participating. I wanted to post something soft and sweet today, so what could be better than a few recent shots of my kitties, Devi and Kali!

My family adopted Devi (black) and Kali (grey) in September 2008 after the passing of my 21 year old faithful feline companion Indya in August.

Devi and Kali are not litter mates but were familiar with each other when we adopted them. You can see that they have certainly adopted each other.

Being with Indya for so long, I forgot how crazy kittens can be! Here's a shot of Kali, who is always looking to climb new heights:

On top of our spacey looking shower doors.

Here's what happens when a kitty gets daring:

Yep. That's right. She either leaped or fell into a tub full of water. We heard a horrible thrashing sound that went on and on as I ran to the bathroom, opened one of the doors and found her hanging by her paws from the inside door handle, big eyed and soaking wet! (The stopper malfunctioned.)

Little Miss Devi sat sweetly on the floor looking up through the shower doors at her sister, happy to not be in trouble.

Simply Kind Tuesdays - Pedestrians

2009-01-20T23:01:00.000-06:00

I'll try not to make this sound like a rant but I'd like to make this suggestion: Pedestrians, Please Be Kind To Drivers!

Please tell me if I'm the only one who experiences this. I'll be parked in a grocery store parking lot (always the worst), trying to back out of my spot in order to leave the lot. I'll look to the left and then to the right and back again. There will be no one coming from either direction when I slowly start to back out, double and triple checking all directions when all of a sudden, someone will walk out from between two cars and keep walking into the space my car is headed so I have to stop suddenly.

Now, I understand that pedestrians almost always come first but should that really be the case when you are clearly halfway back from your parking spot, no one is around, and then someone heads directly into your path? Do you know what I mean? When I am the pedestrian and I see a car backing up and I am not yet close by, I do not purposely walk into their path. It's as if these people are daring the drivers to hit them. What happened to a little common courtesy in allowing others to pass? I can be sitting there for several minutes before there's a break in the action or someone recognizes my intention and allows me to move.

I'm not saying that pedestrians have to defer to drivers at all times, I'm just asking them to please be smart, and kind, and aware of their surroundings. Thank you. :)

Sleeping with Bread #1

2009-01-19T13:31:00.000-06:00

I found another meme! Sheesh, you say, what is with this woman?! Well, when it's late at night and I've forgotten all the brilliant things I was planning to write about, I surf around, find a meme, and it inspires me. This new one (new to me) seems easy yet thought provoking. It's called "Sleeping with Bread." What?! Okay, hear me out...

(Taken from the Sleeping with Bread site and written by Mary-LUE)

What is Sleeping with Bread?

During the bombing raids of WWII, thousands of children were orphaned and left to starve. The fortunate ones were rescued and placed in refugee camps where they received food and good care. But many of these children who had lost so much could not sleep at night. They feared waking up to find themselves once again homeless and without food. Nothing seemed to reassure them. Finally, someone hit upon the idea of giving each child a piece of bread to hold at bedtime. Holding their bread, these children could finally sleep in peace. All through the night the bread reminded them, "Today I ate and I will eat again tomorrow." (Linn, Dennis et al, Sleeping With Bread, p.l)
These are the beginning words of a book that introduced me to a practice called the examen. The orphans held on to what nourished them and were thus able to sleep peacefully at night. The examen, based on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius, helps a person hold onto what spiritually nourishes him by looking at what is giving him consolation in his life or causing him desolation. It allows someone to express his gratitude to God for the good stuff and turn to him for solace for the bad stuff. It is quite simple. You simply ask yourself, in the last day/week/month what gave me consolation and what caused me desolation.

This is beautiful and I want to participate. Although the examen is a Christian practice, anyone should be able to share and take part in this.

For what am I most grateful?

I am most grateful this week for my family. In the last year and a half, we lost my father, mother and my long time companion, my cat Indya. I have many friends who lost family members and friends in the last year as well. I have two brothers and one sister but our family is small because we never knew anyone on my father's side because he was adopted and his adoptive parents died before I was born. He lost touch with this siblings until shortly before he passed. Anyway, there's just a small group of us now. We invited everyone over for a spaghetti dinner the night before last and we had a great time. We talked, drank wine, played RockBand, drank more wine, and enjoyed each other's company. I am so grateful for every member of my family and pray that we will be together for many, many more years to come.

For what am I least grateful?

This week, I am least grateful for the distance between my sister's and my homes. There's about a four hour drive between us so we don't get to see each other very often. I hope that some day we will live closer together but I know we won't be moving to her town as it's too small and cold for us. My son loves it there and I know I would love visiting but my husband and I enjoy some of the perks of living in the suburbs. It's a short hop to the cities, stores are open late, and we can get close to people around us but still claim anonymity when its desired. I should say that I am also grateful for modern technology because without it, my sister and I would not be able to communicate daily by email!

There you have it. My first Sleeping with Bread post. I'm off to read what some of the other participates have written. I hope you'll join me in "Sleeping with Bread."

Simply Kind Tuesdays #1

2009-01-13T22:35:00.000-06:00

Another blog I discovered this past week is Claudia H. Christian's On a Limb with Claudia. Claudia created a new meme entitled Simply Kind Tuesdays. She also created the Everyday Kindness meme. The goal for each is to keep kindness in our blogs and in our minds. It sounded like a great idea to me and another way for me to keep in a more positive mindset so I decided to participate!

A friend and I were waiting at the bus stop downtown, hoping it would hurry so we could get out of the blasted cold and home to our families, when a gentlemen walked up to us and asked for money. His appearance and manner were those of an unclean, unshaven, inebriated or mentally ill man. He wanted $8 so he could get a free meal at the homeless shelter and pay for a shower and cot to sleep on overnight. I have no idea whether or not they charge the homeless for those things.

Well, I've been approached by my fair share of homeless people before and there might have been a time or two when I gave them a dollar bill, but did I hand it over this time? No. My friend, however, did. She just wanted to be kind.

I wanted to be kind as well and when I think about their situation, I feel sick and outraged, and a healthy amount of despair. I've been told by women's self-defense teachers that we're supposed to ignore them or tell them "no" and walk away. You never know when you could be in danger, right? But are all beggars bad people? I think not. Sure, there are those who don't really need your money, who make a healthy living out of panhandling. There are also those who will take your $5 or $10 and spend it all at the liquor store down the block. On the other hand, I know there are millions of homeless people who end up that way because of bad luck. It could be any one of us on the street, especially in these uncertain times. Was I wrong to shake my head no? Should I have dug into my purse and given willingly?

My friend didn't hesitate long in making her decision and I think she decided to give no matter if the man was lying to her or not. Does that make her a gullible person or one who just wanted to be kind?

What would you have done?

Sacred Life Sunday #1

2009-01-11T21:29:00.000-06:00

If you scroll down the page a bit, you'll see a beautiful badge with the words "Sacred Life Sunday" on it. Some time ago, I stumbled upon the Zena Musings blog and immediately started feeling calmer as I looked over the page and checked out Carla Blaze's Zena Moon website. Carla is the creator, candle-maker and sole proprietor of the Zena Moon candle-making business.

Back at the blog, I read about her 30-day personal journey she called My Sacred Life wherein she posted daily a photo from her daily life capturing something that connected her to Spirit, like her prayer beads, candles, family, her garden, etc. Others joined the project and it became Sacred Life Sunday. It seemed like a wonderful idea to me but I already had so much on my plate that I never really got started with it. After checking back to her blog several times, and feeling the pull to take this journey myself, I finally decided to give it a go. So, here goes...

It may seem strange to some people, but I find an exquisite peace when I'm visiting a cemetery. Both of my parents passed on in the last year and a half and I felt the pull to visit them where they rest.

I enjoy walking or driving the paths of the cemetery no matter what the season. In winter, there's a chilly stillness and the trees show off their majesty.

The cemetery in spring and summer feels like a garden with the pretty flowers, winding paths and leaves fluttering in the wisp of a breeze. Autumn is my favorite time to visit. I love the riotous display of colored leaves playing the perfect contrast to the dark and sometimes decaying headstones. The cool breeze has a faint burning scent and everything seems so rich; just dripping with vibrancy. It's an odd word to use when talking about a cemetery but that's how I see it.

It's always interesting to walk around and look at the names and dates on the headstones and wonder about the life that person led. Can you tell anything from a name?

I'm glad I went to visit my parents today and I'm glad their site is not far from where I live. I don't think their spirit is there in that cemetery, no matter how romantic that would seem. I believe their spirits are soaring elsewhere and I hope to see them again one day. I'd like to let them know I appreciate their efforts with me and that I understand that as parents, we don't always know what we're doing, we just try to do our best. I want them to know that I'm trying my best with my son.

The Sacred Life Sunday objective is to get us thinking about what connects us to Spirit and I have to say that spending time in cemeteries, especially this one, helps me connect.