Has It Really Been a Year?

One of the beautiful views on St. Pete Beach.

WOW! Has it really been almost a year since my last post? I'm so fired!

So much has been going on! The end of 2013 was a whirlwind of activity that seriously changed my life for ever. Don't worry, it was for the better! I grew so much as a person and artist at the end of last year that I can't even fully put it into words, but I'll sure try...

I don't know about you, but I struggle every time I get out a canvas or a piece of paper to work. I was feeling stuck and almost ready to give up and put my paints away for a while until my mojo decided to return. I'd dabble here and there, but I couldn't really find myself anymore. Then, October rolled around.

October is always exciting because I get to celebrate another year of marriage to my wonderful husband, but this October was so much more than I could have ever expected! A day or two before my anniversary (5 years!!!), I got a Facebook message from my friend, Monique. Now, I've never had the pleasure of meeting Monique face to face; we met through our blogs and mutual love for photography and have been Facebook friends for a few years. Anyway, I was doing the ol' Facebook check before getting dinner going, and I had a message from Monique! She said she had signed up for a workshop with Tracy Verdugo in Saint Petersburg, FL and couldn't make it...would I like to take her place?

Some of the beautiful dunes on St Pete Beach, Florida.

I was SO floored! Just plain struck speechless and beyond touched that she thought of me, of all people! I told her, not only was she making my day, month, and year, but helping me mark off a bucket list item! (Tracy Verdugo is one of my favorite artists!) I still haven't found a way to repay her unbridled generosity, but I hope I can some day. 

Just a few of my workshop supplies!

All I can say is, October 2013 was when my mojo returned by way of Tracy's Paint Mojo workshop! It was also the time Life was trying to teach me to accept good things when they happen to me, face my fears, and have heaps and heaps of faith. I was scared to death! My mind started racing...I won't know anyone there! I've never been to St. Pete! I've never been to a workshop, what if I screw up?  There will be real artists there...I'm not anywhere near good enough for this.
Rob stopped me and told me to just breathe. He was right. I wasn't about to let my anxiety screw up another opportunity. This was the chance of a lifetime! I set about collecting my supplies and getting a hotel. A week later, we got up at the crack of dawn and struck out for St. Pete and a workshop that would change my life forever!

I was so nervous! A two and a half hour drive gave my silly brain unlimited time to freak out. I don't know how many times I told Rob I felt like I was a kindergartner on the very first day of school! I was just glad Rob could walk me in and help me get set up. The first few moments were scary...walking in, finding my place, saying hello to a few of the other students. As the room filled up and I unpacked, I got a little more comfortable. Rob kissed me goodbye and I was on my own.

Rischa and her mom, painting their hearts out!

But that was the last time I felt that way! As Tracy started the class, and we met one another and spent time in a wonderful circle on the beach, I wasn't as nervous anymore! And, as it turned out, synchronicity had another hand in the day and I ended up sitting next to someone who would become a sister I never new I had! It just so happened that Rischa and her mom, Mrs. Billie, were my long lost friends. At lunch break, we discovered we were all from the Augusta, GA area, we both have special health issues, we are both introverted creatives, and we both needed this mojo boost! By the end of the second day, we were best friends and soul sisters! 

Rischa and me out and about in DeLand!

The 2013 Paint Mojo Workshop gave me so much more than I could have ever expected. It wasn't just a class, but an awakening. I still can't find the words to give it the justice it deserves. I can't thank Monique enough for the gift and opportunity, I can't thank Tracy enough for helping me find my creative spirit again, and I can't thank the Universe enough for the life long connection I have with everyone in that room. I finally found my Tribe!

My fabulous St. Pete Tribe! Love you ALL!!!!

I had to get a picture with our Tribe leader, Tracy! 

Rischa and I have been inseparable since then...and our husbands, too! I mean, it really feels more like a re-connection with old friends rather than a new one. I feel so blessed! That workshop opened a flood gate of creativity in me that I can't explain. If you ever have the opportunity to take one of Tracy's workshops, DO IT. You won't regret it at all. I didn't just gain knowledge and new techniques. I found an entire new family. A tribe I gather love, strength, and creativity from every single day. I love them all!

So...yeah. There's been a lot going on around here! I've been on a creative wave since then, and I am so thankful! And in 2014, I will try to update more than I did last year. I hope you'll stick around!

Road Trip: Savannah, Georgia

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It's been a while since I've stopped to take a moment and write. Life has been crazy in these parts the past few months and I have just needed a break! And to me, a break means a road trip! Who doesn't love a road trip? I know I love them! Well, it's been a while for me and a change of seasons always makes the nomad in me itch to travel.

Somewhere.

Anywhere.

I just need to GO.

Luckily, I have a best friend that can feel my travel itch from 249 miles away. Deanna had visited me not too long ago, but she still made the trip down to Florida last Tuesday and I was officially kidnapped! So, since last week, I've been enjoying a break from the norm here in beautiful Savannah, Georgia with good friends. Such wonderful friends that we even took another side trip into Aiken, SC to be with my grandmother for her 86th birthday. I had thought I was going to miss it completely, but being able to make the trip really made my grandmother's day!

From the left, my wonderful Aunt Pearline and my sweet, beautiful grandmother! Fatz Cafe was glad to see us, for sure!

I always love to travel and see family, but we were glad to get back to Savannah and sit still for a hot minute, too. Unfortunately, we all decided to catch the crud at the same time. But you know what? Sitting inside is a great time to create! Deanna has an AWESOME creating space, so we have made cards or scrapbooked this week to our hearts' content.

Just to get some fresh air and sunlight, we toured Wormsloe Plantation here in Savannah. (It's beautiful! Go!) The ruins are gorgeous, it's educational, and there's even a 3 mile loop through the woods to enjoy.

Beautiful Wormsloe Plantation and Forsyth Park, both in Savannah, Georgia.

We also ventured downtown a bit and enjoyed Forsyth Park, then some beautiful back road views of the Ogeechee River on our meandering trip back home.

I loved the quiet riverside views at a park just off HWY 17 on the Ogeechee River in Savannah!

We are all getting over our varying degrees of crud, so I'm heading home tomorrow, but I still think this was the best trip in a long while! Hopefully, we'll get the chance to stop along our way home for more photo opportunities. I just can't hold back my inner shutter bug...

I completely agree with whoever said that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. There's certainly nothing that recharges you more than travel and time spent with family! I've collected a lot of pictures and memories in a week and now I'm itching to get home and create with my freshly recharged batteries. What a way to welcome Spring!

First Solo Art Exhibit...Check!

What a weekend! It sure was hot, and I sure was busy, but it was fun! 

Last Friday was the finally the time for my solo exhibit for the DeLand 4th Friday Art Walk! Mother nature decided I had to work extra hard for it, so it was inching toward 100°F around time for the festivities with no rain in sight. Thank goodness for wonderful friends and family, too, or I would have never gotten things set up in time!

My adopted family, Deanna and Mary, came all the way from Savannah to help set up for the show. I hope they know that meant the world to me, too. And, my adorable husband gave 110% getting things just right once we got everything set up. If you came by, you probably met him on the street, shaking hands and handing out cards like a mad man. (Thanks, baby!)

Thank you to everyone who stopped by for a visit. I appreciate you coming out in the heat to share my work. I really enjoyed talking techniques and answering questions about my process. I didn't know what to expect for my first solo exhibit, but in all I think I greeted about 50 people!

For those of you who weren't able to make it, here are the new pieces I debuted at the show!

Wander is a 4x12 inch mixed media on canvas. It's one of my favorite quotes! It never fails to motive and inspire me. Leave it to Tolkien to inspire, right? I enjoyed this a lot,

I Want to Ride My Bicycle was inspired by a local contest. I didn't make the deadline to enter, but I still loved my finished piece! The journaling is the lyrics of the chorus to the famous Queen song!

Happier  is sort of self explanatory. Who doesn't love a french fry? I loved this little quote when I saw it on Pinterest, and I just had to put it on canvas!

And, last but not least, Sacred Centers was inspired by my yoga practice and spiritual path. I've really felt the creativity flowing since discovering chakra meditation. This piece is what I imagine my creativity looking like from my soul's perspective.

Thanks again for all the support, and to everyone who came out for the 4th Friday Art Walk! I hope this is just the first of many shows! If you're interested in purchasing prints of my work (originals aren't available just yet so I can get prints made of everything) please visit my shop, Mixed Media Art by Melissa Sherbon!

Wearable Art Rocks!

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I think everyone loves some sort of art. I love all kinds, but even I tend toward aesthetically pleasing every day objects. I'm practical, so sue me! Take bangle bracelets for instance. I love their look. The ornate metals ones, the carved wooden ones...even the trendy plastic ones work with some outfits. I'm more inclined to the wooden carved ones. It's just my inner Bohemian. But you know what? Sometimes all a girl can find are the plastic ones. And sometimes, that's what an idea needs.

I love unique jewelry. I love shopping for it, but I also love making it myself when I just can't find that special piece. So, when I was paint shopping at our local Michael's and came across an entire bin of $1 plastic bangle bracelets, my mind when into overdrive! The 80s are back in force, so most of the bracelets were crazy neon colors, but that didn't matter. I wasn't about to leave them alone and naked. They needed a little personality!

If you know me even a little bit, you know I have a paper fetish. Tissue paper, scrapbook paper, newspaper, vintage book pages...I love them all! This love goes beyond a mild appreciation. I almost always feel completed to cover things with them. Mod Podge is this girl's best friend! So I immediately thought back to a gift I made my sister a few years ago for Christmas.

Thanks to my lovely sister for her modeling talents!

I knew how much my sister loved a bangle, so I decided it'd be a good idea to make one. I went to the Dollar Tree and bought two or three student dictionaries and I was set! I covered her bracelet with words and definitions that described her; a Self Portrait Bracelet of sorts. It's been a few years, so I can't remember most of the really unique words, but I know beautiful, smart, athletic, and outgoing made the list.

I always wished I had made one for myself after giving that to her. So, when I saw that bin of bangles, I dove right in! Three bracelets came home with me, and two have been reborn.

My self portrait bangle! And my new, yummy periwinkle fingernail polish, too!

The first one was my very own Self Portrait bracelet. It's harder for me to pick out self descriptive words than it is to pick out descriptive words for my loved ones, let me tell you. Yeah, I tend to be a little hard on myself sometimes, but this was an exercise is self affirmation. I picked words I thought people should see so they could learn a little bit about me when they read it. You can see artisan, yoga, beach, and fragile. I also included mermaid, artist, woman, peculiar, tender, loving, kind, grateful, wild, shy, divine, awesome, free, and effervescent to name a few more. I wanted to have something that reminded me that sometimes, even if I'm hard on myself, my loved ones see these words in me and that's what counts. It's a pick-my-up every time I wear it!

Right in line with including peculiar on my Self Portrait Bracelet, another strange thing I like to do is collect fortunes from fortune cookies. This is a nice thing to collect since you have to eat Chinese food to get them. Some perk, huh? Being gluten free hasn't stopped my collecting either. I just take the fortune and leave the cookie! 


Well, the down side is seeing how often in your life you eat Chinese food. I have a bucket (it's small!) full of fortune slips. My husband's jaw actually dropped when I brought it out of hiding. I had another bracelet plan. I rummaged through my many many fortunes and took my absolute favorites out for this project. 

I love fortune cookie slips!

Most of them are inspirational or thought provoking. Then there's the comic relief favorite: "Beware of cookies bearing fortunes." I love that one! This bracelet has 20 fortunes on the outside and 12 on the inside. It's my little reminder to always be mindful and live in the moment!

I'm still thinking about what I should do with the other blank bangle. I'm feeling colorful about it though. We'll see what happens!

DeLand 4th Friday Art Walk: Three Days to Go!

Love my supplies!

Wow! I can't believe the time has flown by so fast! It seems like yesterday when I was asked to participate as an exhibiting artist in the DeLand 4th Friday Art Walk...but it's been five weeks! The good news? I've gotten a lot of work done in those few short weeks and there will be five never-before-seen pieces to display! There's nothing like a looming deadline to get the juices flowing, is there?

excerpt of Wander, mixed media on canvas

Deadlines aren't my only inspiration, of course. I like finding inspiration in anything and everything. Some of my favorite muses are quotes. I follow a bevy of inspirational quote pages on Facebook, so I always have something passing through to read and get me thinking. I even keep a notebook close by to jot down my favorites!

One of my all time favorite quotes comes to us courtesy of J.R.R. Tolkien: Not all who wander are lost. I love to wander, so it's always encouraging to be reminded that sometimes, the detours I take might be a better path than the one I was following in the first place. In honor of this wonderful quote, I had to put it on canvas! Here's a sneak peek before Friday's exhibit. You'll have to come out to DeLand Friday evening to see the rest for now. Don't worry, if you aren't able to make it, I'll be posting pictures from the show as soon as I can. I promise!

I also get inspiration from contests. I was so excited about one local art contest, then I didn't get things finished in time to enter...but that doesn't mean I can't share the piece with you! A local art gallery in New Smyrna Beach held the contest. The theme was Bicycles and I had a blast coming up with this piece. OK, I'll give you a sneak peek...

excerpt of I Want to Ride My Bicycle, mixed media on canvas

Another wonderfully addictive source for inspiration is Pinterest. LORD, the hours I have spent pinning! It's shameful and there should really be a 12 step program... Yeah, it's that addictive.

Anyway, Happier is a piece inspired by a quote floating around on Pinterest: "Today, I will be happier than a bird with a french fry." Every time I hear or read that line, my heart smiles! Who hasn't been lucky enough to see a little bird discover a french fry he gets to have all to himself? It's the definition on happy!

excerpts of Happier, mixed media on canvas

My yoga practice also greatly inspires me, so there will me a few pieces on display any yogis in the crowd might appreciate. Sacred Centers is one of them...

excerpt of Sacred Centers, mixed media on vintage book page

These are just some of the pieces I'll have on display this weekend at the 4th Friday Art Walk in DeLand! I hope this has whet your appetite a little. By the way, I'm not the only artist, either! Make sure you plan to visit DeLand if you are in the Daytona Beach or Orlando areas this weekend because DeLand truly loves their Artist Community! My work will be on exhibit from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Got Knots on New York Avenue. (Get more info about the event here!) Come by and visit, sign up to win a free massage from the amazing Got Knots, then hit the Artist Alley for loads more awesome art and culture. You'll be glad you did!

On Following Your Bliss...

It's been a long time since I could say I was truly following my bliss. I think we all have that problem, especially as adults. We tend to lose our wild abandon and courage to follow our dreams as we grow; that's definitely something I have been guilty of doing for a while now. Well, no more! Change is afoot here in my little Florida apartment. I decided to jump and trust that my wings would show up. Since today is really the first part of that jump, I can't say I see my wings yet...but I think I feel them unfolding!

Best. Feeling. Ever.

Today was the first day in nearly a year that I got out my canvas and papers and got paint under my finger nails. It was pure bliss! There's nothing quite like splashing color, tearing paper, and doodling designs. It'd been so long, I was afraid I'd feel weird or not be able to get to what I felt needed to spill out onto the table. Turns out, creating is kind of like riding a bike. It might feel wobbly at first, but once you have it, you can't ever really lose it.

"Bliss" has meant a lot of different things to me in my life, but I now know that pure bliss is being right where you are supposed to be, present and experiencing your path in the moment. My path was wooded and overgrown for a while, but I reached a fork in the road and took Robert Frost's words to heart. I took the road less traveled. I followed my heart, and my art. I dug deep and found the courage to open a shop, but more importantly, to open up and truly find myself again through creating.

Pumpkin loves helping me paint!

I am blessed beyond belief to have a wonderfully supportive cheerleader in my husband, Rob. We talked for months and months about which road for me to choose, but in the end he supported my decision to walk away from my part time job to follow my art...where ever it may lead. That choice, coupled with his unfailing faith in me, has made me feel light as a feather today. I wish I could share that feeling with the whole planet! Unfortunately, I don't know how to do that quite yet. I did at least share it with my trusted muse a bit today, since Rob was at work. My babies (I have three!) are never far and always love seeing what I'm up to.

I felt super inspired today. My whole body was vibrating; I just I couldn't stop smiling. I guess that feeling came out! I'm excited about my new journey. I'm making a promise to myself to follow my own unique bliss and to trust myself, my path...and my brand new wings.

Sunshine On my Shoulders...Soon!

I can't believe October is almost a memory! So much has happened in the last few months, it's hard to believe I am the same person. The biggest news also happens to be the biggest life change I've ever had...yes, even bigger than picking up and moving to Pennsylvania! OK, hold on tight, there's a lot to tell!

My husband officially finished school at the end of September with his Associates of Specialized Technology degree in Bio-medical Equipment Repair! He thoroughly enjoyed his internship with DaVita and really wanted to go after a position with that company, so he put out his resume at the beginning of October and we crossed our fingers.

October 11th came out of nowhere and we were celebrating our third wedding anniversary before we knew it! Animal lovers that we are, we headed to the Erie Zoo for the day, but before we left the house, Rob's phone rang. It was DaVita! He chatted a moment or three and when he got off the phone, he had the biggest smile on his face! They had scheduled an interview for the following day for a position with their company. Of course, besides spending the day together, there wasn't a better way we could have though of to celebrate our anniversary!

Fast forward to today and we are packing our lives into boxes to move once again. Why? Well, Rob has been hired for a position with DaVita and we are ecstatic! I can't pack fast enough either. I have enjoyed Pennsylvania while I have been here, but I have missed my beloved South something awful. The thing I have missed the most (besides my family and friends, of course) is the ocean. We moved here in February of 2010 and I have seen the ocean exactly once during that time...and for only about thirty minutes. That? is unacceptable. Unacceptable I say!

But all that is about to change, because the position Rob was hired for is in beautiful, sunny Florida! We will be moving close enough to Orlando to smell the non-stop fun, and I am super excited. Not only will we be close enough to enjoy the touristy theme parks for a weekend if we choose...THERE'S AN IKEA!!! (Yeah, I'm a shameless Ikea lover, so what?)

The down side is that we aren't very close to any of our parents or siblings, but I'm trying to remind myself that there are a lot of families in that situation. For goodness sake, think of the traveling military families go through. I'm sure we will be just fine. I am super excited that I will be within about two hours or so of my Florida family members...people I next-to-never get the chance to see! I've got a lot of catching up to do!

So, I suppose that's it. It's been a whirlwind few weeks, but I wouldn't have had it any other way. The final pages of this chapter of our lives are here, and I can't wait to see what the next chapter will bring!

The beautiful beach I was lucky enough to see last October in Florida...A year is too long to go without the ocean!

For Today, August 3rd

Wow, is it really August? Already? I just can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday I was taking down the Christmas decorations and making sure I had plenty of blankets out to buffer against the cold wind blowing in through the cracks in this old house. Summer seems to have flown right past me this year! Sure, it's still plenty warm enough outside here in Pennsylvania, but the way this year is flying by, it'll be cold again before I know it. I mean really...there are only four months until December! That sort of puts things into perspective...

So much has happened in the past few week, and I have definitely been super slack about getting around to my personal passions. I know life sometimes gets demanding, but I feel so out of touch lately with myself. I really can't wait for the tides of life to leave something new in the sand at my feet. I can feel things coming! My hubby graduated last month! It seemed so far away last year, when we picked up everything and moved to Pennsylvania for him to return to school. Now, I can't believe how fast the time has flown by. He's starting his internship in the coming days, and after that, we have the whole world ahead of us. There's no telling where we could end up since he will be looking for a position in his new field. It has been difficult not to hope that we can return to my beloved South Carolina. Pennsylvania is beautiful, but it certainly hasn't been home. One thing I learned from my first-ever huge move was that I am Southern to the core...and always will be. I know our future location will be up in the air, but I can't help but hope I land somewhere near home. Hopefully near the ocean.

It feels good to get back to writing for myself again. I have missed this outlet, and I am resolving right now to make more time for it, which means making more time for myself. The best way I could think of to start is by sharing a Daybook entry! I love The Simple Woman's Daybook. Doing an entry really helps you slow down, take a moment, and really be present in the here and now...

(To participate in the Daybook, just click here!)

Outside my window... the sun is coming and going. Mostly going. We certainly need some rain around here though, so bring on the showers!

I am thinking...about the future. Yeah I know, I should try not to do that so much since I tend to worry and freak out, but I can’t help it. Honestly, I am trying a new approach to it. I’m consciously making a choice to release strict plans and try to be more open to whatever the universe has coming to me.

I am thankful...for my supportive, loving husband. I don’t know how I got so lucky. He truly supports me and encourages me no matter what. If you look up perfect husband in the dictionary, you’ll find his picture. I am thankful for him every second of every day!

From the learning rooms…life is a learning room around here these days! My hubby graduated in July and I am so proud, I can’t find the words to express it. We are both learning daily that life only gets better when you are lucky enough to spend it with your best friend. I can’t imagine facing the future without him.


In the kitchen...blueberries, blueberries, and more blueberries! We can’t get enough of the amazingly huge blueberries from our local Conn’s Blueberry Farm. We’ve been three times this season to pick. It’s a good thing you aren’t literally what you eat, because we’d both have turned into giant blueberries by now! We’re going again Thursday and can’t wait!

I am wearing...yoga pants and a t-shirt. Hopefully, they will inspire me to work out more than being in jeans, hehe!

I am creating...a whole lotta nothing right now. Life got the best of me, but I plan to get back on my creative streak as soon as possible. Starting with writing, right?

I am going...to resolve to make more time for the things I love. Work, even if it is part time, feels like it has taken over around here! I have to make myself realize that my art isn’t just a hobby, it’s my passion. And, as my passion, it is just as important (if not more so) than things that might hold me back.

I am wondering...if I have the nerve to step out and risk it.

I am reading...Duma Key by Stephen King. You should be too.

I am hoping...that everything works out for the best.

I am looking forward to...what is ahead. I have a feeling September and October are going to be big around here!

I am hearing...three sleeping cats. I just love that one sort of snores and the other two purr on their exhales. A napping cat is the picture of perfect relaxation.

Around the house...chore have piled up again. Is it weird I miss doing them? I am so ready to dig in now that I have an afternoon or two free to actually spend time on our nest.

I am pondering...this quote from one of my go-to inspirational books, Fit from Within: “Forever and next weekend can take care of themselves. You take care of today.”

One of my favorite things...hearing my little Charlie Bug’s sing-song meow as she plays with her all time favorite toy - her pink milk jug ring. Yeah…she has loads of toys and her favorite is a free piece of plastic. She always gets a look of sheer bliss when she walks around the house with it in her mouth. Silly kitty…

A few plans for the rest of the week… Well, I am trying not to make too many. The general plan will be to get work done early so I can do at least one or two chores, then at least one thing for myself each day.

Picture for thought… I have had SO much going on! Here’s a storyboard of just a few things that happened in the past month!

I used an awesome Template by Allison Kimball for this layout!

Thanks for stopping by, and if you made it this far, thanks for sticking with me! I really appreciate your visit!

For Today...May 27th

It has been far too long since I blogged. I can't believe it, and I am going to strive to make it not be this long ever again! I have got to start taking time for me! So, the perfect way to focus and be present in the moment is the Simple Woman's Daybook. Make sure you visit the blog to participate yourself!

Outside my window...the rain has stopped, but I think it may return.

I am thinking... that being positive is the hardest thing on Earth to do most of the time. Why is that?

I am thankful for...my home and family. A lot of people have lost it all in the last few weeks and I know how blessed I am to have a roof, my family, and the things I love around me.

From the learning rooms...the end of school is drawing ever closer for my hubby. I'll be glad when he finishes because he works so hard at school and work. It's like having two full time jobs. He's burned out most of the time and I don't know how to help. I'll be very happy for the change and the new things (hopefully) coming after graduation.

From the kitchen...more coffee. Yes, that addition is hard to break! It's like a warm hug from a friend -something I could really use right now.

I am wearing...jeans and a sweatshirt. No matter how it tries, the weather can't quite shack off the cool temperatures around here! Get with the program PA weather...it is almost June!

I am creating...well, that's a loaded question! I have been painting and drawing, but I have also been working on the behind-the-scenes efforts of opening an Etsy shop. Why must fun things be made so difficult by taxes and licenses. So discouraging!

I am going... to take it minute by minute and one day at a time. It's all I can do.

I am reading... Duma Key by Stephen King. Wonderful so far, but it is making me more and more aware of how much I miss the ocean.

I am hoping... things won't stay this hard for much longer.

I am hearing...my new kittens making thunder upstairs. So full of energy!

Around the house...same old stuff, different day. So many chores but I put my personal stuff behind other business. Sigh...

One of my favorite things... how soft and warm Charlie and Bean (my new little girl and little boy) are when they beg to be cuddled. They've only been here a month and already I'm wrapped around their little paws.♥

A few plans for the rest of the week... see "I am going..."! I'm going to breathe and take things one day at a time.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing... my sweet babies, Charlie and Bean. the story behind Charlie's name is this: we were told she was a boy, but upon further investigation when we made it home...she was definitely a girl. Charlie really has a rambunctious, tom-boy like personality, so the name still fits her very well! Bean is the sweetest momma's boy ever, with a curious streak a mile wide! They make me laugh when nothing else can. ♥

Charlie and Bean, our brand new babies...11 weeks old now!

For Today...April 7th

To participate in the daybook, click here!

Outside my window...the day has faded to night and the traffic light is blinking at me from the corner.

I am wearing... torn up jeans and a tee, did more painting today!

I am thinking... how wonderful it is to have family and friends that support your dream. You know who you are, and I love you!

I am thankful for... well, see above!!

From the kitchen... hmm. Wasn't thinking about it until I read that! Now I'm hungry.

I am creating... every day. I don't have to finish the project or painting, it's the process. Creating makes me feel alive and happy. It's my drug and I love it!

I am reading... Duma Key by Stephen King. It's really making me miss the beach.

From the learning rooms...my hubby had a speech today in class! I wish I could have seen him, but I know that would make him nervous. I am SO proud of him, especially for his speech class. I can not tell you enough how much I fear/loath/avoid-at-all-costs speaking in public...or large groups of people. Ok, pretty much any social situation.

I am hoping...I can keep this train on the tracks!

I am hearing... the TV, both my and my hubby's typing. Yeah, we're that couple.

I am going...to take this one day at a time. I deserve this!

Around the house...laundry,dishes,general tidying...and creating, though I wouldn't call that a chore! 

I am remembering...to tell myself that I AM worth it, I AM valuable, and I DO deserve good things. I shouldn't be so hard to believe that stuff, right?

Quote to commit to memory... "Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." ~Gandhi   ....and I am SO working on that!

A few plans for the week... getting some necessary things out of the way so I can get more paint on my hands and in my hair!

One of my favorite things...spending a lazy afternoon with my hubby ♥

Photo for Thought... Today was beautiful, and warm enough to go check out the lake, post-winter. Since the weather is warming up, but the water hasn't, there was an odd ring of fog surrounding town all day. It was clear and beautiful right in town, but by the lake, a defined wall of fog. We walked along the water, so I decided to take a shot or two. 

     Also, I finished a mixed media piece today that I was pretty excited about., so I'll share that too! Thanks for stopping by my blog, have a great night!

You can usually see for miles and miles, but today, you couldn't see the water until you were right up on the edge!

There's still some 'burgs in the lake, and the birds were taking advantage!

Find Magic, original mixed media (by me!) on 5x7 art board.

Finding my Muse

     I've been so bogged down in work and running around lately. Lately meaning, as far back as I can think right now. All the while, I've been trying in earnest to be more present and mindful in each day and moment. I always seem to fall right back into worries and stress, no matter how hard I try not to. I know life comes with stress, and that a lot of it simply can't be avoided...but sometimes I feel like I am wearing concrete boots in the middle of a sea of quick sand. Have you ever felt like that?

     Thankfully, my husband is the best possible supporter I could have been blessed with. Rob never stops picking me up, dusting me off, and placing me back on which ever shelf from which I fell. He is my everything. And, he is the one that encouraged me to start painting again. I never stopped on purpose you see. It's one of those things that happen when you grow up. I just sort of never got around to it anymore. Sure, scrapbooking or baking occupy me and make me smile. Photography is fun, and I have a penchant for covering anything I can get my hands on with paper, but there's something about painting. Creating something from a blank slate.

     Maybe it's the fear I have of not liking anything I do, but I think its a combination of all of my emotional issues. I tend to implode and become still when I am stressed or scared...which is most of the time. So painting something seemed like a lost cause. Why, you know? Why start something I might hate, waste all that time or money on materials? That's just how my brain works. 

    Well, Rob doesn't see life that way. He keeps nudging and encouraging me, and so a few weeks ago he made me do something for me. That's the problem. I have an extraordinarily hard time doing something simply for me...past taking a walk or making a cup of coffee, that is. So when I had a single small pay check from my job at the restaurant, he drove me to the art store and told me to buy myself some paint. The universe had the same idea since the forty-eight tube set of acrylics was on sale for 50% off. After a mini-breakdown in the paint aisle over saving the $24 for something we needed more, Rob marched up front and paid for the paint before  I could change my mind.

    Thank God for my husband. Paint might not cure anxiety or depression, but there is definitely something to this art therapy stuff. Sure, I still have the ups and downs that come with working on the painting...pressing forward to find the piece in that blank space, but I feel so much better after I spend time doing nothing but moving colors around on that canvas. Life goes away for a while and I get to be happy in my own little world. I like that. 

     So, my point is that I have been diving into my painting again! Living here in northwest Pennsylvania and so far from my beloved ocean, I naturally gravitated toward the nautical. I like to think I have an inner mermaid, so I decided to try my hand at letting her come out. I'm pretty happy with the outcome...

     I hope you have something in your life that brings you joy, like painting. It can be anything...gardening, reading, travel. What ever it is, do it. Taking time for yourself is not a luxury, it is a requirement. One I'm learning about daily. Go find your inner mermaid...I sure am.

For Today...February 20, 2011

To participate in the Daybooks, head to the blog!

Outside my window...the snow has all but melted, though it is still really cold. I remember last year, we didn't have any snow past the end of February. I love to watch it snow, but right now, I am so ready for warm weather so I can head to the water's edge in my flip flops.

I am wearing... jammies. I think I have come down with the icky sinus funk going around up here.

I am thinking...random thoughts. Warm sunshine, flowers, loved ones, not wasting a moment with those we cherish. 

I am thankful for...life. No matter how hard it gets sometimes. There might be long periods of darkness or down times, but just at my lowest point, there's a break in the clouds. If even for a second, to remind me to cherish life.

From the kitchen...nothing much today. Being stuffy doesn't inspire much hunger.

I am creating...slowly. And in spurts. I did actually do some painting this month and got two pieces I am pretty happy with. I'll share a picture of one of them, made for my hubby as a Valentine gift. The other is for a project of sorts. I had posted a status on my personal Facebook about a handmade exchange. I didn't get many takers, since the catch was you then had to repost offering your handmade goodies. But I did have one commenter...and if she's reading this I don't want her to see her surprise!

Rob's gift on my easel.

I am reading... well. I started Digging Up Otis by T. Dawn Richard and You're Not Who You Think You Are by Albert Clayton Gaulden. I usually only do one book at a time, but sometimes, if they are different enough, I read two. These two aren't really that engaging...so I picked up a Jen Lancaster book at Borders here in town, and LOVE it! Bright Lights, Big Ass is too hilarious and you should go get it. NOW. And while you're at it, read Jen's Blog. it's just as hilarious!

From the learning rooms...I'm learning to give myself time. For some reason, I have this thing in my brain that I have to do a perfect, finished painting in one sitting. yeah, sometimes it takes more time! My hubby is still doing very well in his classes. I still can't believe it's been a year since he began and that he graduates in September! Right now, September feels like a lifetime away, but I know it's just right around the corner. I'm so proud of him!

I am hoping...to figure out what the heck the deal is with my hormones. It's been going on for a while, but since turning the big 3-0, it seems so much worse. 

I am hearing...a cat purring in her sleep and the best cooking show on PBS, Cooks Country!

I am going...give myself a break...I swear I will. After doing some writing work, I'm going to make a big pot of tea and cuddle up with my cat and my book for the rest of the day.

Around the house...laundry,dishes,general tidying...how does this much crap pile up so quickly?

I am remembering...Rob's grandmother, known to most of the family as Grandma Great. She passed away this past Tuesday, and the funeral was Saturday. Since we lived in South Carolina, I didn't see her much. But, the times I did, I enjoyed thoroughly! She was a vibrant spirit that never lost her childlike fun side. Her apple dumplings were out of this world, and she loved everyone she met. We were still about 4 hours away living here in North East, so we didn't see her much, but when she got sick we planned a trip to see her on Rob's next day off. She passed before then, so our last visit was the family reunion last September. I am so thankful I could call her family, and that I met and got to know such a wonderful lady. 

Quote to commit to memory... "There are two ways to live your life. One, as if nothing is a miracle. The other, as though everything is a miracle." ~Albert Einstein

A few plans for the week... well, just getting well is first. I'm not what my family always called "Sick-sick". I'm that nagging, stuffy, wipe-your-nose-every-two-seconds kind of sick. So resting and lots of fluids for me. I'm sure the housework will still be here in a few days...

One of my favorite things...waking up to see my cat all snuggled up next to me. She is mommy's precious little snuggle bug!

Photo for Thought...I have to share this picture of Rob and his grandmother from our wedding. I just love the story behind it! See, after the wedding ceremony, the wedding party and the family had to gather for the posed shots before the reception. Well, Grandma Grape (as the younger kids called her) had misplaced her teeth in the flurry of getting ready at the house before the wedding. Rob's mom had told him about it...they had almost been late looking for them! Well, when it was her turn to stand and smile with Rob, he looked down and said, "I guess you found your teeth!" and she just blushed, then smacked him and said, "Oh, Robbie!" Our fabulous photographer, Brendon Sharpe, caught the moment and we cherish this photo! I thought it was a fitting memory to share in Grandma Peck's honor. She is greatly missed!