The Musings of Me

I have moved...

2011-03-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

Please come visit me at The Meandering Mermaid. I've only just begun, but I hope to see you there.

Namaste,

Celeste

Just because....

2010-02-26T12:56:00.000-08:00

It's Friday...and I'm feeling silly, and reflective at the same time...and because I found this meme on Deb's lovely blog, I thought I'd jump in on the fun...:-)

I am: a HUGE procrastinator
I think: well, I will call it abstractedly

I know: love is all that really matters.period.

I want: for nothing...no really. Except for a little piece of land, with a tiny handmade home near the sea.

I have: a smile on my face

I dislike: insensitivity...and hearing cruel, thoughtless words coming out of people's mouths.

I miss: nothing

I fear: getting sick. Really sick.
I feel: content for the most part
I hear: children giggling as they play dress-up

I smell: nothing, because I don't really have a sense of smell.
I crave: simplicity

I usually: try to help wherever I can

I search: for balance. Well, I did...but I've since figured out that the best you can do is to go with the flow.

I wonder: if I will ever feel confident handling a camera...and when it will be warm enough to plant my garden

I regret: not getting my driver's liscence before 30

I love: laying in the grass on summer nights looking up at the stars

I care: sometimes too much

I am always: doing something...I can't sit still
I worry: not a whole lot

I remember: Maypole dancing when I was a little girl, on the front lawn of the Parliment buildings on Victoria Day...and I'm not sure why that just came to mind.:-)

I have: a pocket full of dreams

I dance: ummmmm...wildly, and not very well.

I sing: constantly
I don’t always: find the right words to express myself

I argue: I think fairly...and respectfully

I write: sporactically

I lose: not often. If I'm angry I tend to take a breath, and think before I open my mouth.

I wish: for all beings to be happy. Well, if you're going to wish, wish BIG,right.
I listen: far more openmindedly than I used too
I don't understand: the point of most rap music

I can usually be found: at home

I am scared: hmmmm...

I need: to be more adventurous
I forget: not a whole lot

I am happy: most of the time

Have a wonderful weekend...xo

A Little Magic....

2010-02-23T08:58:00.000-08:00

(Click to enlarge.)

Look what I happened upon this morning...much to my surprise!

Wishing for you...whatever it is you wish for...

Hope you have beautiful day...

xo

December views

2009-12-09T08:27:00.001-08:00

It has been very, very cold in this neck of the woods...so we have been passing the time doing quite a bit of this...

And this....

And I've been whittlin' up these like nobody's business...I'm not sure why it took me so long to discover how fun these are to make...and nothing is cozier than a handknit sock...well, other than having a big, squishy golden retriever to keep you warm. :-)

And I might as well throw in a couple more pics, since I skipped so many days...

I hope where ever you are you're keeping toasty warm...and for more December views or to join, feel free to click here.

2009-12-03T19:32:00.000-08:00

(Come sit with me...and toast your tootsies.)
(One of my original designs...I made this 'Disco Snow Diva' top for my daughter.You know...just a little shameless plug.:-)

(We love to trim our holiday tree with natural and handmade ornaments. This garland was a family project from last year...crafted while watching a movie and munching on popcorn.)

2009-12-02T18:58:00.000-08:00

December Views begin...

2009-12-01T09:45:00.001-08:00

(click to enlarge)Dusk falling on the prairie...This was taken the other day, just outside of the tiny hamlet of Madden, Alberta,which is about a five minute drive from my home.

2009-11-30T07:23:00.000-08:00

(My favorite necklace by Jen)
I've been having a restless...shifting in my bones kind of feeling. I want to tell this girl in the mirror what to do next...I'm just not sure what to say to her yet. You would seriously think that after almost 41 years, I would know, right? Well, okay...perhaps not.

The other day I casually tossed the idea of a career change at my husband. I told him that I thought it would be something that I could be really good at. It's something I could meld my yoga teaching with. Jon just smiled, and agreed that it would be perfect for me,and that was it. I've just been sitting and mulling it over. It is one that would mean going to university...and I imagine a pretty heavy duty work load. It would mean major changes for our family if I went for it...especially since we have a son who will be graduating high school in the spring, and who also will need help with whatever he chooses to pursue.

I grew up in a family where one person's pursuit of their creative dream really caused hardship for everyone else, so I am especially sensitive to how my choices impact the ones I love.

I am nothing,if not true to my ways. I'm pondering the logistics of it... because I know there is a way. This is what I did for a long time before I went to school the last time, but in the end I just leap and went for it. So,in my heart of hearts...I know where this is leading...right, dear Universe?

(My latest painting...but I'm stuck on the name. Any ideas? :-)

And I guess I don't worry to much...it's hard to when you feel so damn grateful for every moment of every day...I treasure days that are filled with love and light...colour...music...movement...laughter...and the steadfast belief that things will just be as they are meant to be.

What is causing you to stir and dream today? I'd love to hear...

Peace & Love...

Good Morning Sunshine...

2009-11-13T08:38:00.000-08:00

(I shall preface this post by warning you that it's not all that exciting. :-)

(Baby clothes I made from vintage linens.My daughter outgrew these long ago.)

How are you? I guess I've been in one of those funky, transitional places. I've felt quiet...very quiet. But things are shifting. Especially creatively. You know that old ebb and flow...well, most definitely the tide is coming back in I am happy to say. I have been working like a wild woman around my home trying to get a handle on our clutter. I love how the moment to create space, you can breathe a little easier, don't you? (That sounds like the kind of line a yoga teacher would use. :-)

So last weekend it was the basement. We took five bags of fabric, and clothing to a local charity shop. Then on Wednesday I tackled my laundry room/ sewing room...and yesterday my studio. Another few bags of donations. Oh ya!

I am falling in love with my space all over again. I find this important because I both work, and live here. (Okay, let's just say I'm home a bit too much.) All this work has freed me to begin the oh-so long list of winter re-decorating projects that I've made...although I guess I will scratch off painting my studio robin's egg blue after my husband reminded me how fun it is to paint over red.

My favorite spot in my house right now is our dining area just off our kitchen. The footprint of the original kitchen was about 5x11...basically a closet. When we renovated we couldn't really expand the space any other way except to add on. So the actual working part of the kitchen is in it's original location, but we added a dining space/entryway. The garden doors flood it with light. It's furnished with cheap or free furniture and antiques...and my art...and a couple of weeks ago I strung coloured lights all along the perimeter. So, I thought I'd just share a few pictures on the gloriously sunny Friday...

One of my favorite things is the stacked antique butter boxes for shoe cubbies. The rustic benches were built by Jon using scrap wood, and the laundry room door is a salvaged front door from a house here in town.

Now I'm thinking that I could use some lovely Fiesta ware...in about eight different colours...Hmmmm...maybe one day. In the mean time, feel free to come by for tea anytime.

Hope you have a beautiful weekend...xo

From An Autumn Afternoon...

2009-09-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

(Kananaskis Country,AB Sept.26,2009)

...and what is it exactly,
I wonder out loud,
that beckons this forest
to prick up her ears,
and listen to our secrets so
wholeheartedly?

on this most flawless day of sun and sky
dreams rustle...
then fall from the trees,
and land at our feet.

I pick up two or three...
unprepared for how perfectly concrete they feel,
in my hands.

I touch them wistfully...for just a moment...
then I pass them to you,
to be tucked in your pocket
for our safe-keeping.

(Our Path,Sept.26,2009)

Peace and love to you...

Softly...In the Early Morn...

2009-08-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

(Just Before Mornings Light,Pencil and Charcoal, 2009)

There are certain promises
That can be
Only barely whispered
Before we stumble into the light of day...

You know...Just in case you forgot...

2009-08-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

(Tegan~Pencil/Charcoal/Acrylics, 2009)

We all deserve to be heard...
To have a hand to hold...
And arms to fall into...
At the end of a long day.

We all deserve to be treasured...
And adored...
Never told to be quiet...
Or worse yet, ignored.

We all deserve to have someone...
Honour our tears...
Someone who knows full well our strengths
And accepts our short-comings.

I was just feeling especially appreciative of my *someone* today...:-)

Love & Compassion...

C.

Random Joy...

2009-08-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

('A Fairy's Dream'...today's work in progress.)

I am so very thankful that I continue to feel inspired to paint and draw...

My Bee Balm is in bloom! These flowers always make me smile. They kind of look like little court jesture hats, don't they? I also finally found some time to frame some photographs from some lovely photographers...

(Northern California Windmill by Denise Andrade)

I did an art exchange awhile back with Denise...and chose this print of hers. It is so hauntingly nostalgic...and it took me awhile to think of how I wanted to frame it. I took this old window and made a little shelf on it with crown moulding...added flowers...and a starfish, of course...:-)

(Click to see these wonderful prints larger.)
Then there are these prints of Maddie's. I became completely enamoured with her work awhile ago...they just drawn you into the story...I simply matted and framed them...then layered the frames over a vintage window screen. These two framing projects totally made me love my livingroom again...:-)

And then there's these...

And last by not least...My sweet Cootsie...feeling his joy...

Whew! That felt good. It's been pretty heavy around here lately...and it was nice to just revel in a little capricious fun...

Hope you are having a wonderful evening...

xo

Okay...a little late...

2009-08-17T16:48:00.001-07:00

(Bewitched,2009)

but I was waiting to pin down my kiddies to draw names. Sooooo...Rhianna drew Dar's name...and Joe drew Bohemian Mom's. If you lovelies could let me know which print you would like, and send me your address I will send them too you right away. :-)

My love and thanks to all of you who entered...xo

Shades of Grey...and a Give-Away...

2009-08-09T15:27:00.000-07:00

As I type this the sky is turning ever darker...I've already hurriedly pulled the laundry from the clothesline, and now comes the hush. You know the hush that comes before a late summer afternoon storm hits...that strange hush before the wind picks up...and those clouds start booming and cracking. I love it...but my sweet Daisy girl is not a fan to say the least. She will be my constant companion until this is over.
('Morgaine' Pencil/Charcoal/Watercolor on paper. 2009)

This past week felt a bit strange. I find the weather most definitely effects my moods. Most of the past week was dark...dreary...and very wet. So...ya,I found myself in a wee bit of a funk. My creativity loves a little funkiness. It's been ages since I've just picked up a pencil and paper just drawn. I started and I haven't been able to stop. My sketchbook has been going everywhere with me...I. LOVE. IT. :-) I also love that I have a whole week off to play...catch up on some projects around the house...shop...and camp! Yes...it'll be a busy one...

(Fiona,Pencil on watercolour paper. 2009)

But for now...off to finish today's work.

*Oh, and now my favorite part...I am happily giving away an 8x10 print of either 'Morgaine' or 'Fiona' to two of my commenter's. I will draw the names next Sunday evening (the 16th). You can click on any of the images to view them larger.(And if your interested, the originals are available in my Etsy shop.)

Hope you have a fabulous week...xo

*Update...You can also now chose a print of 'Melody'. I just finished her last night. :-)

Boom...Boom-Shacka-Laka...laka!!

2009-08-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

On this most sunny of Sunday's I have been cruising around my garden...and the mood is quite jubilant, I must say. Everywhere I turn there is blossoming...and ripening. There is dancing and humming in every little niche...

The sunflowers are doing a little shimmy-shimmy shake as they reach evermore towards the sun...

Honeybees drunkenly drift from bloom to bloom...I know the feeling...:-)

Everywhere there is the sparkle...

...and shine...of the quintessential summer's day.

Oh yes...and then there's this...

Can you dig it...?:-)

Happy Weekend...xo

Today...

2009-07-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

(My pink Schwinn Cruiser...:-)
It has been a day of joy...A little sitting out on the lawn in the early morn, sipping coffee, listening to the songbirds...bare toes tickled by the dew damp grass. A little shopping with my honey for new art supplies and a little fresh inspiration...a little meandering about town with my little girl (who is quite suddenly turning ten next weekend, and not so little!)

It has been an afternoon of sweltering heat...a hint of mugginess...telling me that mama nature should delight us with a beautiful light show tonight. I find summer thunderstorms so romantic...

It has been an afternoon of wandering through my yard looking for those little bits of ordinary magic that I sometimes forget about...those little hidden nooks where maybe fairies choose to dwell...

Little places where the light dances...

Oh, and I'm almost finished this...

and working on this...

I've been all about watercolours lately. I'm loving them!

Yes...it has just been one of those rare,perfect days...

and I hope you are having a perfect day today too...:-)

ox

Simply Happy...

2009-07-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Today, I have two of my nieces here. They came into the living room when I was taking this picture...

'Auntie Celeste, why are you laying on the floor taking pictures? That looks fun.' Why yes, honey, yes it is...:-)

As I come here this morning, I have to say that honestly, it doesn't take much to make me happy these days...the chippy green paint on an old screen door hanging on my living room wall...smiley kids...the sweetest husband (who is at work running on less than three hours sleep because he took me to see these guys. There was a wee bit of swwwooooonnnnn-age going on...:-)

And speaking of swooning...

Jon is almost done our greenhouse...I couldn't be happier with it! This weekend we will be putting the stone on the foundation, an I hope to have the interior and exterior painting finished.

I also finished a painting I was working on for a local kids recreation centre fundraiser auction...and I just sent her on her way...

I did something new with this one. I used real flowers...which prompted another little niece to ask me...'Auntie Celeste, what are you doing with those flowers?' Cooking them in the microwave, of course. :-) I think I may have to forewarn my sisters-in-law to keep an eye on their flowers...and microwaves...

Then I had a very sweet lady ask me to please consider teaching a girls yoga/art camp next summer...(Which coincidentally, I'd been pondering for quite awhile anyway.)

All in all it's been a beautiful...NOISY(seriously, kids...could you turn it down a notch.) crazy, busy week...and I am most definitely looking forward to revelling in a quieter weekend.

What are your plans? Whatever you do I hope it is something that brings you joy and nourishes your soul...

Peace and love...
xo

Today....

2009-06-25T08:57:00.000-07:00

(Mantra Necklace by Liz)

Simple and true...

2009-06-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

(My first Cosmo of summer...)

Hi there! How are you? I came here tonight feeling a little funky...and then I thought of this...

(Dar and I at in her neighborhood antique store...out of focus...:-)

A couple of weekends ago I did something that was a little monumental for me. Okay...to be honest I kicked fear in the ass. I am forty. Yep...4...0. Anyway, I had never, ever taken a solo road trip. You see, I grew up in a family that never owned a car. Getting a licence...a car was never something I ever really thought about...until I was 30. I finally took the plunge, and got my licence...although I still didn't drive that much. So skipping ahead to these past few months...and this shifting (or mid-life crisis?) I've been feeling.

Some people buy sports cars...get tattoos...or end marriages when they hit this time of life, but me...I just wanted to hit the open road sooooo...lllloooo. I kissed my worried husband goodbye, popped in some tunes and started singing at the top of my lungs on the way to a city I didn't know...to meet someone that I've never met in person.

So what happened? Nothing short of pure joy...I have come to not believe in coincidence. I believe that the people and circumstances that come into our lives for a reason...I believe that kindred spirits are drawn to each other.

After navigating my way through Edmonton's crazy busy Saturday traffic following Darlene's (excellent :-)directions I arrived at her sweet cottage, which is nestled on a charming street canopied by the most gorgeous elm trees. From the moment we met, I felt an instant warmth and familiarity. She is one of the most beautiful, genuine people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting...and she has an equally lovely family. Her sister-in-law Suvarna was visiting from Vancouver, and the three of us had such a fun afternoon lunching...shopping...sharing...

It was such a happy day. I came home having connected with a friend. I experienced how being brave doesn't mean doing something without fear...I just didn't let the fear hold me back from doing what I wanted to do.(Huge step!)...and I came home with a couple of trinkets from the Anthropologie store to boot.

What's next??? Being the Wonder Woman that I am...it will have to be conquering my fear of flying. It's kind of funny that I would have this fear...especially because I have been accused of living with my head in the clouds on more than one occasion...:-)

Love and light to you...

Daydream Believing...

2009-05-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

(...under our apple tree...)

I love blogging...I really do, and yet I keep struggling with it. So much has been changing that it's hard for me to deal with where it came from, or where it is going. I know somewhere along the line I decided that I didn't want to go through my life not really knowing myself. I decided that I didn't want to keep me tucked away. I also decided that I didn't want to just live on the surface...and it's hard to know how to share this...or know how much to share. I can say that the deeper I go, the more compassion and kindness I feel toward others...and yet, there is the fear that if I lay it out here, there are those who most certainly do not feel the same way. There are those who feel your feelings and views are fair game, and I have a tender heart. So I tread lightly here my friends...

This post was largely inspired by Stacy . Her post kind of stopped me in my tracks...I've been reflecting. I've been contemplating what to do next...and that is the problem. I know full well the joy that comes from bringing a dream to life...and I know I need to immerse myself in the doing. So I will start by spilling my dreams here...(and I prefer to state them as affirmations...because I just have not doubt about them...:-)

*I will earn my living teaching yoga and art. I will have a beautiful website created. I will write children's books...and poetry.

*I will continue studying yoga...art...photography...philosophy...oh, so much more...because I simply love the thrill of learning something new.

*I will live on a beautiful acreage in B.C. with my husband. We will build our own little cabin, and workshop...and grow old together creating. We will have huge gardens. I will have long grey braids, and a clothesline. It will be a magically special space that will be a legacy of love and joy for our family.

*I will continue to live my truth...

*and lastly...I will be able to stand on my head when I am eighty-six.

Now I'm reading back over what I just wrote...thinking it probably looks pretty simple...but honestly...those are my dreams. I think the last one it the most important for me, because if you are capable of standing on your head at eighty-six, how bad could your life possibly be? ;-)

(Bronwyn,2005,Acrylic on Canvas)

To move myself along I hung Jennifer Lee's business plan up on my livingroom wall today, and started working on it. I actually printed it off a few months ago, and it was collecting dust beside my computer. So...ya...it's up on the wall...and being put to task...

And to echo Stacy's sentiment...I too, believe that pursuing our dreams...our passions...only serves to make this world and even more wondrous place.

Happy Weekend...xo

39 Things....

2009-04-30T22:07:00.000-07:00

(No.17 on a Spring hike.)

Inspired by this lovely's post I thought this would be a fun thing to help me ease back into blogging again...Be sure to check out her awesome project!

1. I am a child in a woman's body.

2. I love to watch 'Love Actually' so that I can cry at the end...the shots of people greeting their loved ones gets me everytime. I have watched Practical Magic several times purely to look at the house, and garden...the kitchen is to-die-for...and a garden by the sea? Come on...the things dreams are made of...I have watched Pride and Prejudice too many times just to hear the words...'Mrs. Darcy'.

3 . When I was younger (teens and twenties) I put off persuing any dreams because I believed something awful would have to me as a consequence.

4. I have been stalked.

5. I fell in love instantaneously with my husband...He had a good 'vibe'. It was our grade 10 Halloween dance. I was dressed as the 'bad' Sandy from Grease...and he was all bad-ass attitude.

6. I have studied Classical Guitar, and Classical Voice. (I'll sing for you...but I can't play guitar to save my life.)

7. I love to run.

8. My favorite yoga poses are headstand and tree pose.

10. I am a vegetarian living in cattle country.

11. I had a life-threatening complication after giving birth to my first son, which left me extremely weak, and in post-partum depression. It took me five years to get the courage to have another baby.

12. I love to drink tea and read in the bath.

13. I'm not convinced that 'thinking positively' is necessarily a positive thing.

14. I grew up on Vancouver Island, and would move my family back there in a heartbeat, if...(ya, there are lots of if's)

15. I have lived on the same street for almost twenty years, in two different houses. Both of them old...and both of them were purchased primarily because they had a good 'vibe'.

16. I am married to a strong man, who never questions me when I say something has a good 'vibe'. (So far...so good...:-)

17. I love the smell of wet dogs, because I have an almost non-existent sense of smell.

18. I love art. Creating it...looking at it...reading about it...I recently was asked to come in and teach an art lesson to some grade 5 students...and I believe I ended up learning more than they did.

19. I have undergone major shifts in my beliefs and perspectives in the past few months...I have never felt more like 'me' in my whole life more than I do now...I am letting go of old fears...

20. I meditate every morning...There is nothing like that place of stillness.

21. When I was eighteen I was offered modelling jobs...and asked to be the lead singer for a crappy cover band. I turned down both because it would mean leaving home...(and I thought something bad would happen.)

22. I can't dance or turn a cart-wheel.

23. I avoid the news at all costs...

24. I've tried quitting coffee eight times, but I always return to my 'dark master'.

25. I believe in magic...because I have experienced it...

26. At 40, I am at my healthiest, and have never been in better shape.

27. I am passionate about love...kindness...recycling...composting...and creating the perfect dirt. (Seriously, I have been after that 'chocolate cake mix' texture for years.)

28. When I was fifteen I discover Sylvia Plath's poetry...I was captivated, and horrified by her story at the same time.

29. I am a romantic...I believe true love happens far more often than it is given credit...and that too much attention is paid to love gone awry...

30. Speaking of romance...I will visit Robinson Jeffer's Tor House and Hawk Tower soon...I discovered this place about twenty years ago, and have wanted to visit every since. The stuff of fairytales...

31. I can't swim...but I love canoeing and boats...and I will learn.

32. The most amazing place I have ever been was the Redwood Forest...I was awed and humbled by their beauty.

33. My favorite flowers are Cosmos, sweet peas, and gerbera daisies.

34. I have never been on an airplane (See #3) but I will....and I will visit the British Isles...

35. I like to enjoy a glass...or two...or three of red wine...especially Austrailian.

36. I'm not sure what my natural hair colour is anymore...but I think it's dark blonde.

37. My favorite food is fresh berries out of the garden...such a fleeting pleasure...

38. I prefer to wear handmade clothes and jewelry.

39. I can't believe I'm up way past my bedtime, and that I actually thought of this many things...:-)

'Night...

....and the winner is....

2009-04-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

Megg! Congratulations! I am sure you will find or create something beautiful to pay forward...:-)

~Paying It Forward

2009-03-29T19:17:00.000-07:00

('Lotus Rising' 2009)

I was just peeking in at my friend Darlene's blog ,and she is offering three of her beautiful photographic prints for her reader's to win. The winner is supposed to 'pay it forward' by then offering something up for their readers.

I just think it's such a fun idea...and I hate waiting on things, so...I thought I would just jump on in...and offer a print of the above painting to one of my readers. My kids will be drawing names next Sunday night...

Have a great week! :-)
ox

~Softly Unfocused...

2009-03-17T07:57:00.001-07:00

I've been missing blogging lately...missing visiting and commenting at my favorites...but right now I am completely entangled. During the day I am going about my usual routine...playing with my little ones...running my household...squeezing in time to study, and practice my yoga. Everything, is the same, and yet, completely different. I can't really find the words to explain this sensation any better...

I remember when I was reading the discription for this course I am taking. Right there in black and white it said it would be a...'profound, personal experience...'. Um....yes, yes, it has been...It has also awakened me to the fact that this is only the very first baby step. I love learning...learning about myself, about others...My body has become so much stronger, but it's the meditation that's been the real kicker...again, it's something that's hard to explain. If you do it, you know what I mean...

I can feel the little prickles of change coming. Spring just around the corner...my son's hockey season finishing...my course finishing...free time...time to plan, to dream...how do I want to teach...where do I want to teach...what do I want to study next...(herbalism, I think.:-) Gardens to get ready...a greenhouse to be build and planted...a house that desperately needs a little work...canvases that need to be painted...camping...hiking...friends to meet...journeys to take...You know how it is, I'm sure you've got a list a mile long too...

All this truly has me feeling happily...softly unfocused...:-)

Namaste....xo

2009-03-03T08:56:00.001-08:00

Today I ache...
For the light...
Sand between my toes...
The endless roar of the sea...
Dancing in the pauses of the waves...
The screech of birds soaring overhead...
Hauntingly beautiful cedars...reaching ever up to the sky...
Time worn...telling their tales...

Today I long for...
Farm fresh flowers in a milk carton...
Bought from a roadside stand...
Bike rides down island country roads...
Wooden basket picnics...
The flick of a whale's tale...

Breathing...breathing deep...
Fire lit faces...turned up to the stars...
Soft whispers...
Deep dreamed nights.

Yes...today I feel especially weary of this season of winter. It is not a day of sunshine, and glistening snow. No, those days I can honestly say I love winter. Today is grey...dreary...cold...wet...and I am shamelessly pining for the magic of a season that is still a little ways off...

Friday Fun...

2009-02-20T08:33:00.000-08:00

(I may have an unnatural love for the colour green...:-)

Hi there...feeling much, much lighter today...The sun is shining, and dare I say, playful? Uh,huh. This morning seemed perfect for a little wander around the house with my camera...:-)

(I love this old tin.)

(The photograph is my mother-in-law, and her mom...a family treasure. The etiquette book from 1953 I picked up at a garage sale in Victoria...it's a great read if you need some laughs.)

(This vintage Coke add always reminds me of Jon and I when we started out...)

(Starfish make me smile...)

(Old stove on the back deck.)

(...and I had to share this awesome entertainment center that Jon built. The doors are windows that we salvaged from our house when we built the addition. It's my favorite thing that he's built yet.)

Sooo...feel free to pop in for tea. I'll even clear the laundry off my table for you...:-)

Happy weekend!
xo

Love and Compassion...

2009-02-17T09:34:00.000-08:00

(Cozy scarf and necklace from Liz Elayne I love them both!:-)

(*Disclaimer. The following post was written on almost no sleep and too much coffee. A quick note to parents with little ones...please beware! Your preteens can keep you up more than a newborn!)

So I guess I've been in hiding. Not intentionally...but through two back-to-back illnesses(which is very strange for me) I just found myself knocked right down. You know that feeling when you're sick, and you start to imagine what it would be like if this is the best you ever felt...ever again? I started back-tracking over the past few weeks...how I haven't eaten properly...slept properly...struggling through my yoga practice.(It has been anything but a 'moving meditation'.)I can't even remember the last time I picked up a paintbrush...All of this, in turn, has made me a regular 'Little Suzie Sunshine'.

The very first concept I learned about yoga philosophy was 'ahimsa'...having a sense of love and compassion for all living things...which strangely enough, is supposed to include yourself. This is something that is a constant work in progress for me. So yesterday,as I was really focusing much of my energy on this...and found myself being reminded of a time that seems very far in the distance...

I grew up in a home that was a little unconventional(I know, who didn't?). The best way I guess to describe it, was that things were excessively strict, and ridiculously permissive at the same time. I am the oldest of four children...and I guess I could honestly say, I was born a 'mother'. Due to work and schooling commitments of my parents I grew up very fast. By ten I was cooking dinner, doing laundry, and caring for my three younger siblings on my own quite a bit...all the while being a straight A student. I babysat for my parent's friends quite a bit, and sometimes that money would go to help run the house. I worked very hard at being the perfect daughter...perfect student.Somehow, I would be loved...

This is how it went until I was almost seventeen...when I kind of lost it, and began living two lives. On the surface, nothing was noticed, but it could have been. I followed curfews...and rules...my report cards escaped being checked, so my parents totally missed that my grades went directly in the toilet. I could have given a shit...There were parties...and experimenting...and complete disregard for personal safety...Ya,the exact opposite of 'ahimsa'. But in the blink of one terrified eye one night everything changed...It just hit me that if anyone was going to pull this sliver of a girl onto the right path, it was going to have to be me. Literally overnight, that is what I did. I took that girl's hand and we ran...fast! I retreated from anything unhealthy...I dove headfirst into my studies, and quickly brought my grades back up...I used money from an after school job to put myself through classical guitar (Okay...I honestly suck at this...:-) and classical voice training (Much, much better at this.)I spent my spare time writing, and sketching...practising...singing...studying. I just threw myself headlong into joy with reckless abandon...and then came the best part...tumbling head over heals into the arms of one very, very special person...Someone brave enough to put up with my crap...and so kind that he truly makes my life better everyday...(well...almost everyday...;-)

So, I guess the point of my spouting here, is that I suspect, deep down we do know what is best for ourselves...we do know how to be caring and kind to ourselves...if we just stop and listen. Maybe allowing ourselves to hear it is the hardest part? I know lots of women who don't realize how wonderful they are...So girls, please... feel free to wrap your arms around yourselves...come on...I dare YOU! :)

xo

(...and speaking of love. I just couldn't resist...:-)

~Littlest Birds...

2009-02-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

I'm alive...and actually feeling quite human today. This is a song that my little girlie and I just adore. It's 'Littlest Birds' by The Be Good Tanyas. We love to dance around together singing it, and man, my girl can sing...:)

I'm dying to actually write something...anything...but the words just aren't coming right now...but it is my hope where ever you are today, you are happy, and the sun is shining...Basically, I'm just popping in to say 'Hi!'...:)

xo

2009-01-26T14:05:00.000-08:00

Today I put on an old broken record...all scratched and crackly came the sweet sounds of...

* I'm tired
* I'm overwhelmed
* I'm trying to hard
* I've got too much to do...and no time to do it...
* Who the hell do I think I'm foolin'...

Yes...pretty much I listened to it skip over...and over...and over...I know you've probably got one of these records too...hiding in some dusty corner. The truth of the matter is that I'm crabby, and sick with a bad sinus cold today. I am a 'grumblebum', which is a pet name I have for my kids when they feel like this. I am tired. I had a really crappy sleep last night...and I am trying to do too much today. I have children to care for, heaps of laundry, a big assignment to finish for school this weekend, dogs watching my every move for the 'sign' that they are going to get their walk...finally...and I'm laughing at myself right now, because I just made a 'to do' list for tonight that includes vacuuming...cleaning the upstairs bathroom...study time...and hopefully a hot bath...if I'm not to tired to drag myself into the tub.

I am just trying to fool myself...and as I type this I know that I am, by far, not the only woman out there who does this. Why, why, why?

I'm thinking I shouldn't be sitting here typing right now. I should be spending the last few quiet moments before my little ones wake up from their naps curled up on the couch with my pups...sipping my tea...

So if you'll please excuse the mild mannered rantings of one sleep deprived girl...I'm off to put my feet up...and maybe even rest my eyes for 10 minutes...and to remind myself that...tomorrow is another day...:)

xo

2009-01-20T08:37:00.000-08:00

(Presents from my kids...Photo by Joe Johnston :)
Your dreams have already all come true...you just need to open your eyes... Can you dare to believe this? After this weekend...I almost have too...

Sunday I turned forty. That evening found me standing with my husband twenty-something feet in the air...in the shell of a building under construction...looking out lovely arched windows...out over farmer's fields...and okay, train tracks. My heart in my mouth, my ears barely registering the words...'Your studio'...my mind whispering to me...Possibilities Celeste? No reality...if you finally surrender your fears, your doubts...this is your reality...right here, right now. I know this. I know it with every cell of my body...and saying this...to be really honest,scares me.

There is a business plan to write...finishes to pick...legal details...costs...equipment...and I'm sure hundreds of other things that I haven't even thought of. However...I know before I tackle all of this, I'm going to need to find some silence...let everything sink in...and just remind myself to...

Breathe...

xo

Just finished...

2009-01-12T10:06:00.000-08:00

(In Dreams...9x12 Mixed Media)

Artisticly speaking...I have been struggling lately. I sit to work, and find myself just flooded with emotions, and thoughts...and then a hollow frustration with myself. I know, often I don't heed my own advice. :) So, as I put the finishing touches on this piece this morning, there came a sigh of relief...and then the calm...and here comes that word again...a renewed sense of 'hope'.

Much love...
xo

~Scattered...

2009-01-05T20:56:00.000-08:00

(Your are what you read...?)

I've been asked over the past few days why I haven't posted lately...And, here I sit tonight, unable to sleep...Thoughts tripping over one another in my mind...feeling very much scattered...wondering where to focus...where to begin...

With this New Year, Jon and I have begun a flurry of activity around here. Trying to catch up on the many, many little unfinished things around our home. We just created a cozy new dining area, which has already had a big family dinner...It's full of light and colour...and I love it...

The best part was that it cost us nothing, because it was all stuff that we had already...but it has just been such a breath of fresh air...inspiring us to keep moving on...

With this...also comes the realization that I probably spend ninety percent of my time in this house...I live here...I work here...I create here...And while this place is ever so dear to me, the urge to get out exploring is growing very strong. Maybe it's the New Year...maybe it's that I am going to be 40 in less than two weeks...maybe it's seeing my children get older, and more independent...I don't know, but there is a definite 'turning of the page' feeling...In some ways it feels as if I've been walking around with part of myself crumpled up in the back pocket of my jeans, and I want to take her out...smooth out the wrinkles...and see if I can still make her out.

I know that kind of sounds like I'm unhappy...but really, it's the exact opposite. I am so grateful to be where I am at...Sometimes I find myself breathless thinking of the possibilities...painting...teaching yoga...taking those art classes...going on a solo road trip...going on a retreat...or visiting an ashram...and to have a partner saying go for it...well,I find that invaluable, to say the least.

Yet still, at times, like right now, I feel a bit overwhelmed by it all...I hope if I sit with this in a quiet place for a little while answers will come...Hmmmm...hope...Could that be my word for 2009? For now though...I've got to try and get some sleep...

Peace and love...
xo

Miss Daisy is wishing you....

2008-12-23T12:54:00.000-08:00

a very Happy Holiday...and hopes you have as much fun as she's been having...

and, of course, so am I. I'm just sneaking onto my computer for a moment. I have a list of what I 'should' be doing that's about a mile long, but instead I've been fiddling with collaging. This is one of my first mixed media pieces that I made just this morning...

How did I ever forget about the joys of podging...?:)

Peace and Love...
xo

December Views....Walking around the house with my coffee this morning...

2008-12-19T07:23:00.001-08:00

And now for Bohemian Mom's Christmas Meme

1. Do you celebrate Christmas? Yule? Winter's Solstice? Hanukkah? All of them?
Well...Christmas and Yule loosely...There's no religious significance for us, but we treasure it as a time to to slow down, and enjoy just being together.

2. Name your favourite X-mas movie. Love Actually...and Christmas Vacation

3. Your best X-mas present ever? A bike...when I was nine.

4. Do you bake cookies? Or buy them? Bake

5. How old were you when you stopped believing in Santa? Nine...when I busted my Grampa delivering the above mentioned bike to our house Christmas Eve. When I saw the 'Love Santa' tag on it Christmas morning the gig was up.

6. Your favourite X-mas food? Chocolate...and red wine...(I know that's not a 'food' per say...:)

7. Your favourite holiday tradition? We live in a very small town, and every year the volunteer fire department and a 'Santa' or two go around on the trucks going door to door wishing everyone a Merry Christmas on Christmas Eve. We then go to my brother-in-laws and hang with my husband's family all night.

8. Giving gifts or getting them? Definitely giving...and I totally think the thought behind it counts...and just grabbing something because you feel you have to give someone something.... I've said I don't want any presents this year except some of my mother-in-laws crocheted cotton washcloths. I love those.

Please feel free to jump right on in with this...

Have a great weekend! I hope wherever you are is a hell of a lot warmer than where I am....
xo

December Views...The 17th...

2008-12-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

A Place to Unwind...

...A Place to Dream...

What can you say about a man who, knowing how much his wife loves clawfoot tubs, rescues a little forelorn cast iron beauty from a contractor's demolition load before it hits the dump...Hauls it home...searches far and wide for the right legs for it...spends hours refinishing it...figuring out how install the telephone faucet...and the plumbing...all so she can have a bubble bath, and play mermaid...

Today I am taking a moment to express a little gratitude for this man of mine...and speaking of mermaids...She's done! :)

(click any image to view larger)

December Views...

2008-12-15T12:26:00.000-08:00

Shhhh....My bed at 6:30 this morning...-40 and the wind howling outside...

(Yes...I rocked it...and I have the incredibly sore, happy body to prove it :)

There was so much beauty and goodness at this event that I will have to give it a proper posting...

(Handmade prettiness for our tree.)

...and of course, a disco ball...

...and of course, I had to make Rhianna a shirt with a disco-dancing snow diva...

...and then, speaking of divas...

A little more work on her tail, and I should be done. (Truthfully though, I don't get the impression that she's a diva at all...:)

Peace...ox

December Views...Day??? :)

2008-12-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

Okay...I will hereby confess to sucking at this...I hadn't realized I had such committment issues until deciding to try December views. Oh well...*sigh*...on the plus side...I am slowly moving along on my painting...

We have a winter snowstorm warning...and the snow has just begun to fall...

It is supposed to be VERY cold this weekend. So it's a good thing I've got lots of heart-warming activities planned...Tomorrow I will be participating in the 108 Sun Salutations fundraiser to benefit an organization that helps abused women and their children get back on their feet. We are actually doing 108 full salutations...A's and B's...:) I have never done this before...so I'm not sure how far I'll make it...

After that we are going to a wonderful party that is sure to be a fun evening of wine...music...and lots of laughs...Then we'll finish off with a little sleep-in and watching our oldest play hockey...

Wishing you a weekend filled with love...and cozy good times!
xoxo

December Views...Day 7

2008-12-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

Something I've never done, is a photographic journal of a painting from start to completion. So just for fun, I'm going to start one here with a mermaid that I began today...

She began as a rough sketch on a little piece of scrap paper that I did back in August on holidays...

Then today, I drew her much larger on an 18x32 inch canvas panel...

The background was roughed in with vibrant greens and blues...

Then comes my favorite part...beginning the layers of colour that create highlights...shadows...and ultimately her personality...

I can't wait to get back at her tomorrow...:)

December Views...Day 6

2008-12-08T16:10:00.001-08:00

(Baby, it's cold outside...)

(Where it would have been nice to stay today...with my cranky old cat:)

My bedroom...I currently have a love/hate relationship with it. When it was first done I painted it a vibrant green...then I went to this sand colour...which in my minds eye, would make me think I was at the beach on vacation every morning when I awoke. Wrong! So now I am searching for a new colour(s)...I'm seeing a purple...red...orange... bohemian...gypsy...belly-dancing thing going on. Man, am I ever grateful that I have a patient husband. Speaking of him...He happened to have handcrafted our lovely nightstands...and our headboard from a vintage door...

Okay...so there's not denying it...I'm not at the beach...

December Views Day 5

2008-12-07T08:31:00.000-08:00

I'm sneaking in early today...It's going to be a busy one with hockey, and dropping a painting off for the fundraiser next weekend...then sourcing out a place that can get me new business cards... fast. I totally forgot that I would need those after changing my email. Yikes! Oh well, I get it done...somehow...

(click for larger)

Joe did this when he was three...it still makes me smile every time I look at it.

(I'm getting there...)

Magical Mermaid rocks...and treasures from the sea on the kitchen windowsill...

Have a happy Sunday! :)

xo

December Views...Day 4 Bits and Pieces...

2008-12-05T18:06:00.001-08:00

(My 'real-life' teddy bear...)

Have I ever mentioned that I LOVE my dogs? Oh, I do...they have such tender little hearts...

(Daisy...aka. The Divine Miss Jiggs)
Notice the dog snot on the window...perhaps I should do something about that one of these days...:)

(One of my first portraits...)

(Mess=Bliss...)

(Hey there...)

Hope you have a beautifully creative weekend...
xo

December Views Day 4~

2008-12-04T16:15:00.001-08:00

Wandering these country roads today the world seemed infinitely...wild...open...
No sounds...other than the biting wind rushing through the grass, and whipping through my hair...The occasional click of my camera...and the crunch of my boots on gravel..

I paused on the hilltop...
Actually delighting at being alone out here in the prairie cold...
And I felt strangely...utterly connected...
To the long-ago abandoned church...

The distant snow covered Rocky Mountains...

These solitary trees...

I found myself touched by the impermanence of all of it...of everything really...The grey of the day hanging round my shoulders like a melancholy blanket...

So I wandered on home for a little tea...and afternoon karaoke...It was most definitely a Norah Jones kind of day...:)

December Views...Day 3

2008-12-03T20:58:00.001-08:00

So this will be a pretty lame little post...:) We changed our internet and phone provider today, so I've been working out all the little quirks and kinks that go along with that, which can be exhausting if you're not very technologically savy.

All I managed today was a reference photo for a painting I want to do...but mostly, I just wanted to show off my new red hair...I've alway wanted to try being a spicy red head...and I'm lovin' it, and so is Jon...:)

Tomorrow my camera is going to go for a little adventure around town, but for now it's off to bed...'Night.

Oh, and my brand new email is...jonandceleste@shaw.ca

Jumping In...December Views...

2008-12-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

(Three Wishes Anyone....?)

(Entangled...)

2008-11-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

(My non-doubting daughter near Kaslo B.C. this summer...:)

I have been thinking a lot about doubt lately...How many of us have let it spin wildly out of control to the point where it we find ourselves spiralling into the pit of fear...

Do you doubt yourself? Do you wonder what you're really capable of? I do...maybe a bit too much at times. Deep down, I believe that human beings are capable of pretty much anything if we don't doubt ourselves. I do believe that everyone of us that contributes something positive to this world makes it a better place for everyone on it...but the same holds true on that negative flip-side. If we give doubt the power it can literally cripple us...emotionally...spiritually...physically...

This morning, I'm feeling very heavy, as I see what is happening in our world. I know there are philosophical beliefs that say there are no such thing as bad people...but how full of fear, and hate does one's heart have to be to commit such horrendous acts? I'm sorry, but this is a very hard concept for me to swallow. I also know there are many, many good things going on too...but I struggle with trying to understand it all...

Coincidentally, Rhianna and I had a little mom and daughter field trip scheduled at the Hindu temple in Calgary this Sunday with my yoga class. She excitedly mentioned it again this morning at breakfast...and it just made me smile. Something that Rhianna has been from the moment she could understand, is fascinated by other cultures, and people around the world. To see her craving knowledge about how they live...what they eat...what they wear...what they believe...well...it just does a mom's heart good. As I watch her grow...and love...and learn, I can see that she,and the millions and millions of other beautiful little souls out there, are going to keep on doing great things for this planet of ours...no doubt about it.:)

Happy Sunday...

2008-11-16T14:28:00.000-08:00

(Yikes...time for Photoshop or some eyecream! :)

Hello you! :) I can't believe it's been almost two weeks since I've posted here. Many times I've sat down to write something...only to have my words vanish into thin air. I've been reading your blogs...and having a hard time expressing what I've wanted to say. This is a very busy time for me. I have really dove head first into my yoga teacher training program. It has literally been gobbling up almost every spare minute of my time with practising...and studying. But I love it, really love it. Learning the philosophy...physiology...and the hardest thing of all for me...to slow down and listen.

Today I promised myself I would make time for some painting...so of course, I whipped out my camera, and started fiddling around...:) I am the Queen of Procrastination...Jon bought me some awesome 30x36" canvases a couple of weeks ago,so I've been painting...BIG!

(My sweet Coots wondering when I'm going to get back to work.)

We also had our first 'real' snowfall today. Jon and I took the dogs for a long walk this afternoon. It was so still and beautiful...I absolutely love being outside in the snow when it's not too cold...

(View from my studio window...)

Today is definately the day for a big pot of veggie chili and homemade cornbread...I heart Sundays. I hope wherever you are, you are having a fantastic day...

xo

2008-11-03T06:23:00.001-08:00

(Morning Alter...click for larger.)
At my last weekend of school, our Buddhism/Hinduism philosophy teacher spoke again of 'collective karma'...that force that seemingly brings complete strangers together out of the blue. She reminded us again that this path...this life shift that we are on together chose us...and not the other way around. I do believe this...there is a very definate feeling inside when you find yourself drawn so strongly to something. I know to some, this whole concept might seem a little esoteric, but really if we open our eyes to it...it is everywhere...of course...it's right here in our blogging world.

I have been sitting a lot with my feelings...and fears lately in my early morning meditations. Doesn't that sound self-indulgent? It hasn't been all that pretty...but the more I do it, the more I notice subtle changes...Joy is slowly shining her light in those darkest of corners. And so, in that spirit, here are some things I am throwing out here today...nothing original...mostly just a reminder to myself...

*Life's beauty is in every breath...every body... whether you are writing a novel...saving a life...sipping your morning coffee... or homeless pushing a shopping cart through the city streets searching for bottles. You might not see it or believe it, but it's there...

*Everyone has the right to their own ideas and beliefs...Not just you...EVERYBODY. And it's okay if someone's views are different from yours...it's actually a good thing.

*Keep making mistakes...just stop tripping over the same shit...

*Smile...especially to yourself, first thing in the morning...

*The greatest gift we can give each other is compassion...

*Giving of oneself breeds happiness...Need proof? Do it!

*It's okay to leave the dishes and laundry until later to do a little karaoke with the kids.

*LAUGH

*Twirl (Thank you Dar! :)

*Play

*and last, but not least, EAT YOUR VEGETABLES!

xo

~FREE TO GOOD HOME~

2008-10-23T08:43:00.001-07:00

(Two sweet GREASSSY 'pains in the asses'.)

Care to imagine coming home from your morning to run to school to find about three litres of cooking oil flooding your kitchen? Finding your dogs licking each other like they were a couple of tasty,greasy, hairy French fries? Which is also probably exactly what they tasted like! (Last night Jon decided to make us fries the old-fashioned way. I was planning on dealing with the pot when I got home from taking the kids to school...and the thought did cross my mind that my beasties might think of getting into mischief...but nah,it would be okay! I'd only be gone 10 minutes. So now those ten minutes have turned into about an hours worth of cleaning! UUUURRRRGGGGG! :)

So if you're so inclined these two are also great at:

*Filling a king size bed. Cooter(the one with the guilty look on his face.)also loves to spoon and snore.

*Leaving little doggie bombs in your yard.

*Stealing folded socks out of your freshly folded laundry, and playing tug-of-war with them.

*Prewashing your dishes.

*Vaccuming up any food off your floors.

*Supervising your bathroom activities.

*Being 'doggie-doorbells' when guests arrive.

*Exercising your kitties...and you, for that matter...

*Shedding on EVERYTHING...

*...and making sure you are never short on unconditional love.

So...if you are so inclined to sign up for this...let me know. I promise I'll bath them before I send them on their way.

Love and doggie dust-bunnies...

ox

~Yesterday...

2008-10-17T08:35:00.001-07:00

Well, at least I can remember it like yesterday. And I know it looks like we stepped out of the 1950's...and yes, that is a scarf tied around my ponytail...but it was actually 1988. This was Jon and I on a hot date at the Calgary International Airport. We thought we'd duck into the photo booth for a little fun...I was listening to Deb Talan, and going through a box of old photos this morning...and these were at the bottom. Ahhhh.....bliss! :)

I love her song 'A Kinder Columbus', and was hoping to find a video on youtube...but alas, there isn't one...so instead here are the lyrics to this beautiful song...

an open sea by darkest night
still deep water and crossing
is made by faith starlight
the mystery was over
shifting oceans and changes
in topography
in dreams
we were swept together
when i awoke he was next to me
he is my columbus
sailed all around my heart opened
my assumptions lemons of light
in the dark there is nothing
i could hold away from him
like a native giving gifts
received with gentleness
he is my kinder columbus
dancing down a sidewalk
pasta honeysuckle moon such
tenderness and his head against mine
full blown technicolor
my eyes were blind
he is my columbus
sailed all around
my heart opened
my assumptions lemons of light
in the dark there is nothing
i could hold away from him
like a native giving gifts
received with gentleness
he is my kinder columbus
he'll never know how much
his loving me allowed me
to begin i didn't think anyone
would want to travel with me
all the way in i did not think
i would ever discover him he
is my columbus sailed all
around my heart opened
my assumptions lemons of light
in the dark there is nothing
i could hold away from him
like a native giving gifts
received with gentleness
he is my kinder columbus

Wishing you peace...love...and someone warm and wonderful to wrap yourself around this weekend. :)

~Changes in Progress...~

2008-10-10T12:13:00.001-07:00

(Bohemian Joy, and Summer Song in progress...:)

It stands to reason, that with the changing of the seasons...and the changes in my life...that so too, is my art. I've been feeling a little dissatisfied with it lately...like I've been pushing it...over thinking it. (Which, coincidentally, is what I do in many areas of my life.)

Growing up, I had the privilege of watching a fantastic artist struggle, and work, and grow...My father is the quintessential, eccentric artist...an extreme perfectionist, who left me awestruck...and VERY intimidated. I remember when I was about twelve, and he found one of my sketches on my bedroom floor...it was a pencil crayon drawing of a saloon showgirl, of all things. Let's just say that his critique made me no less passionate about art, but ensured that I kept my work hidden for years...knowing full well that it wasn't good enough.

How often we take experiences like this, and let them alter how we view ourselves. This is one of many interactions that left a mark on me. This is what I was thinking about the other day when I was staring at my canvas wondering why I just wasn't 'feelin' the love' for it. It was because I was standing there worrying about proportions...choosing the right colour palette...trying to get the shading right...blah, blah, blah. I'd totally lost the joy...that connection with our souls that we feel whenever we a focusing, deeply creating...and so I walked away. I sat with this for a few days...and then I let it go...not completely, but enough to bring me to freedom...and colour...swirly free-formed flowers, and little retro birds...and proportions be-damned! And after spending this weekend in class...I will be spending part of my holiday Monday singing...dancing...and painting. Who knows, I might actually get something finished. ;-)

Have a Happy LONG Weekend...
xo

~A Simple Day....

2008-10-02T12:07:00.000-07:00

(A lost fern...found this morning.)

I am...

Watching leaves of gold and red flutter off their trees, and float against the brilliant blue sky, scattering on the green grass.

Watching little ones doze off into to dreamland...listening to some beautiful music.

Sipping my green tea.

Thinking of snatching a few moments to paint...after I sweep the floor and do the lunch dishes...

but I may end up dozing a little myself...and wonder if it's possible to ever love to much. (I honestly don't think so.)

Today is a fabulous day...Hope you're having one too...
xo

~All Ready....

2008-09-26T11:26:00.001-07:00

I can't even begin to say how looking forward I am to school tonight. It's been a long week, and the thought of hours of yoga, and meditation where I'm not being interrupted by a dog sniffing my butt...or licking my face...or a child looking for some critical misplaced item...hearing that there's nothing to do...or he/she is bugging me...well, for reason just feels like bliss...

(click for larger)

So I'm heading off with my books...and my mat tucked into my 'new' yoga bag...I made it out of Jon's old jeans, and stuff I had lying around my sewing room. It was totally not my idea (you can find lots of them on etsy.) but I love it...from it's braided strap to the 'Om' symbol embroidered on the pocket. We love repurposing around here...:)

Anyway...I hope this weekend finds you blissfully doing something you love...

xo

~Fairytales Can Come True....

2008-09-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

It can happen to you
If you're young at heart
For its hard, you will find, to be narrow of mind
If you're young at heart...
(Old Frank Sinatra song. :)

A sprinkling of a recent conversation with my daughter...

Rhianna: Mom, I think I'm magic or something?
Me: Really, magic?
Rhianna: Ya,'cause every time I really want something to happen...it just happens...I don't know why, but it does.
Me: Huh, that is totally magic...

I think most of us have experienced this sense of wonder...I sure hope so anyway. My whole life has been filled with this kind of 'magic'. Now don't get me wrong, I have had some pretty horrible experiences...it's just they pale in comparison to all the beauty that has flowed through me... around me. The more I stay open to possibilities...the more things seem to be happening...

(Click image for larger)

Here's a most recent example...

A few posts ago I wrote about how I used to design children's clothing, and was kind of missing it. Well, inside of a week, seemingly out of the blue, I received an etsy convo from one of my old customers. About three years ago, she had found me on ebay, and asked me to design several outfits for her daughters. Over time she had lost my contact info...and I'd stopped designing. She just happened to stumble upon my art on etsy, and recognized my name...and asked me if I would consider making some more clothes for her girls. The outfit pictured above is one I just finished for her 4 year old daughter yesterday.

And I have to tell you...it just totally felt right. From the initial design sketch, to the painting, to the sewing and embroidery...I was just totally blissed out.

Maybe I am traipsing around viewing the world through Rose Coloured Glasses...(this just happens to be one of my favorite Blue Rodeo songs. :) But as I was discussing with a certain gorgeous blossom this weekend...we can chose joy...

xo

~Thank you....

2008-09-21T15:37:00.000-07:00

First,I recieved this lovely award from Solticedreamer Thank you so much! :) Here are seven blogs I would like to send this award off to as well...

*Daisies...she always has something wonderful to say, with...or without words.

*Rhayne...guaranteed to make you smile.

*Megg...and her wide open heart.

*Periwinkle...beautiful dreamweaver.

*Joan...heartouching and honest.

*Debi...and her lovely perspective on things.

*Delly...my sweet mother-in-law who's just struggling for survival out in the woods...:)

Happy Peace Day!
xo

~Feeling Quiet....

2008-09-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

(Oregon sunset)
There are many wonderful things going on right now...right at this moment...I'm just finding the words a little hard. This is probably because my almost forty-year old brain is trying to digest mountains of Sanskrit...:) I'm feeling very much nestled in a soft quiet...but thinking of you all, and hoping all is well with you....

(Garden Friends)

Love and Light...

~ Sweet 16 ??

2008-09-12T08:52:00.000-07:00

(My lean, mean 'Dillybean' :)

In January of 1992 I found out I was pregnant for the very first time. Elated...ecstatic...I don't know...nothing would seem to cover it, despite having to get up close, and personal with the inside of the toilet for those first few weeks. No, nothing was going to dampen my enthusiasm. This was what I had wanted since I was a little girl...to be a mommy.

Things were clicking along just as they should, until we got to about eleven weeks. One afternoon came the unmistakable signs that something was terribly wrong. I left work, and raced to the doctor. After examining me, he coldly told me in all likelihood I would lose this baby. He prescribed bed rest, and to get to the hospital if the pain got to much, and they would 'take care of things'. I remember leaving his office bewildered by this man's attitude, and very, very scared. It would be twelve years before I would see this person again.

Anyway...I went home, climbed into bed...and bawled my eyes out for I don't know how long. Rubbing my tummy...wishing and hoping with all my might that this little life would somehow hold on...

It was lonely...it was me and the television most days, as Jon had to continue going to work...so I sat and ate...and ate...and ate...and rubbed my tummy...and wished. I dreamt of this little baby...pictured it growing inside me...knit booties and blankets for it...and ate lots more.

Our situation stayed the same for about two weeks...then slowly eased up. I remember waking one morning and the painful cramps were gone...I felt a new inner strength. I stayed in bed for a few more days,and hunted down a new doctor for us on the phone. He immediately sent us for an ultrasound where we learned that you were okay! No parent can ever forget that first sound of hearing their baby's heartbeat...that first sight of that little blip on the screen. I was overwhelmed, but deep down, not the least bit surprised.

After that...everything went just as it should. I took care of myself sleeping...walking...and eating...eating...and eating...I had always been a bit underweight in my life up until this point, and had worried that I wouldn't gain enough to have a healthy baby. All this worrying went to the waist side as I rapidly packed sixty pounds onto my frame...and to make a long story short, on the evening of September.13th, and two minutes to midnight(which is also the title of Jon's favorite Iron Maiden song...:) a beautiful 8 pound 14 ounce baby boy made his safe arrival into this world...

I'm not entirely sure why we beat the odds. I will tell you that when Dylan was twelve I bumped into that doctor that sent me home with all but a promise of miscarrying...He recognized me instantly, and then his eyes went to my son. 'I remember...Is this the baby?' he asked. When I told him, that yes, this was the baby, he looked totally stunned. He went on to tell me that he was so, so sure that my baby wouldn't make it...

Well, we are going to be celebrating 16 happy years with this wonderful boy this weekend. I often wonder how time has moved so quickly. Life with him now is filled with sports equipment, and guitars everywhere...loud, obnoxious music...stinky socks...and a towering boy that won't stop eating...eating...and eating...A little while ago he came to me, and thanked us for being such great parents. Ahhhh.....

So proud are we to call you our son...

Happy Birthday Dylan James...we love you.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
xo

~Rising Lotus~

2008-09-08T12:39:00.001-07:00

('Rising Lotus' 2008 Acrylic on Canvas)

One evening, a couple of years ago, I was laying on my yoga mat in my bedroom, after concluding my practise. I'm trying to think of how to accurately describe my feelings...I guess it was a moment of other-worldly calm...I felt totally open, and surrendered to whatever happened to flow through me. In that moment I had a little epiphany...in that moment I knew that I wanted to spread this feeling to others. I went downstairs where Jon was watching hockey with our kids and told him that I wanted to learn to teach yoga. He was his usual supportive self. I researched programs...we tried to figure out when, and how on earth we could afford it. At that time it seemed a little out of reach...but if there is one thing I have learned in my life, it's just to trust that things will unfold as they are meant too.

And so now here I am...this Friday I start my teacher program...finally! I am smiling ear to ear as I type this...just because it feels so very right. Jon asked me if I was nervous...and truth be told, I wasn't, until he asked me. ;) Honestly though, I know it's going to be great...and it pretty much has to be, because I have a full class of people right now waiting for me to finish...My head is aswim with ideas for classes that combine yoga with art...and journaling...for big kids...for little kids...I can't wait, and yet I must. I think there is a Buddhist saying...Each step of the journey is a journey, or something like that? Well, my toes are wiggling bravely forward...itching to take yet another step.

Namaste....:)

2008-09-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

(The last of my Sweet Peas...)

Today it is surprising how tenacious I am...
In spite of my obvious fragile nature.
I scoffed at last night's frost...
And today show off for the sun.
See me? Can you really see me?
All alight in my fuchsia blaze...
Look quick.
For soon I will be taken...
As the summer flickers...and fades.

~A Sunday's Ramblings~

2008-08-31T14:02:00.000-07:00

(The outskirts of Crossfield today.)

Shades of grey hang full and heavy
Clinging to the hilltops...
Her ghost whips through the trees
Rushes across the open fields.
My ears shock at the sound of Catherine...
Searching out her Heathcliff.
She darts across my windshield...
Taps on the glass...
And then she's gone.

Today as I headed home from camping with my little minivan packed to the roof with coolers, dirty laundry, stinky wet dogs and kids...of course the first thing to come to mind would be Wuthering Heights. Today it is cold, and misty. The whole countryside was one stunningly moody palette ...of brooding skys...rolling green hills...golden bales of hay...shimmering black ponds. Flocks of birds dotted the skies...it all felt almost gothic.

So now I'm home...coolers empty and laundry started...a pot of soup simmering on the stove.
It was wonderful camping out at my in-laws. This was their annual end-of-summer party. There is much to say about it, but I think I'll just marinate in it for a little bit...:)

I am feeling pretty liberated. The past few weeks I've felt really creatively stagnant. Then I was visiting Denise's blog and saw her request for a recycling sign for her kitchen. I have been a fan of her blog since I first discovered what a blog was...and sent off a little email asking her if she'd like to do an art exchange for the sign. Happily she agreed, and here is what I came up with for her...
(Click to view larger)

In return, I've selected this lovely photo of hers. I can't wait to have it gracing my wall.

It was the perfect little joyful project to nudge me to get going again...and so I have. Last week, I also started designing wearable art for us 'big girls'. This is my first piece...with lots more to come...

Each piece is handpainted...embroidered and beaded...and machine washable.

(click for larger view)

I am planning on getting these in my etsy shop as soon as I figure out all the logistics of it. However...if anyone is interested in the meantime, just drop me an email. For now though, my easel awaits...or maybe I'll do a little karaoke with my daughter... I hope you are having a fantastic long weekend...and that it is all you are wanting it to be. :)

Peace...

~My Love Affair With...

2008-08-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

(Lovely Soil. Google photo)

DIRT. Yes,dirt. Years ago, as a little girl I became simply smitten. Not in a Snoopy's-Pigpen-Character kind of way. Nope. It was a deeply-appreciating-the-wonders-of-our-world kind of way. Digging in the dirt revealed little earthworm 'families', and rare magical 'gems'...treasures to be sure.

I was completely enamoured with how nestling a little seed in the ground mysteriously brought it to life. Somehow, together with the assistance of the rain...the guidance of the sun...I am gifted with the sweet...

(Yesterday's crop)

the scrumptuous...

(Almost ready.)

the healing...

(Pretty Chamomile...perfect tea.)

the just plain beautiful...

(Perennial loveliness)

With all this beauty comes,well, even more beauty. The butterflies...bumblebees..dragonflies...and, just the other day a hummingbird! (It took my breath away, as I've never seen on before in real life.)

I have no doubt that my childhood romance with dirt will last the rest of my life...especially after discovering...THIS!

(Cob Cottage in Oregon. Photo:Natural Home Magazine)

While researching sustainable, enviromentally friendly home options for our near future, Jon and I came upon this enchanting cottage. We both took one look, and said,"That's it. That's us!"

Right out of a fairytale, this little abode was handcrafted out of cob. Cob is a concoction of sand, water, straw,and....clay(aka.....Dirt! :)

There are centuries old examples of cob buildings in Britain, and other parts of Europe. They are becoming more and more common in British Columbia, and the Pacific Northwest states. In fact, there are many places now where you go for workshops, and retreats to learn how to build them.

There are lots of benefits to using this building technique.
*Generally they are very inexpensive to build. (I've read 10.00 to 20.00 per square foot.)

*Highly energy efficient.

*Earth-friendly, because they are made of, well...earth(aka...yep, dirt.)

*Airy, and full of light

*Natural

*Very little construction know-how needed...

*and my favorite benefit...CREATIVE...WHIMSICAL...FREE-SPIRITED...Each one is a work of ART! You can make almost any shape...build in furniture...funky windows, and doorways...secret knooks...I'm telling you it's as endless as imagination...

Of which I have a rather large one. :) So now we go to see a financial planner...and my sketchbook will get fat on ideas...for our home...guest cottages...Jon's workshop...my yoga studio...gardens...and I live this moment by moment...until the time is right.

And yes, I know I am a total spaz. :)

Love to you...

~And So I'm Home????

2008-08-18T10:38:00.001-07:00

(View from our campsite, Mirror Lake B.C.)

We had an absolutely beautiful ten days. I drank in so many shades of green and blue to the point of intoxication...There were so many wonderful times, I'm not sure where to begin...

In Idaho we met up with Jon's brother, Dan, and my sister-in-law Jane. They had rented an incredible house on lake Cocolalla...and brought quite a brood with them....My two little nieces...Jane's teenage niece and nephew...and two of the most wonderful women you could ever hope to share a glass (or two,or three...)of wine with. Anne (Jane's 77 year old mom) and Evelyn(Anne's older sister who is over visiting from Ireland). These two ladies...(Sorry, they prefer to be called 'recycled teenagers' :) are so full of love and life. I honestly can't remember when I'd laughed so hard...and at the same time been deeply moved. Evelyn at one point said we should all be so lucky to be as healthy and vital as she is at her age. I couldn't agree more...

The kids got in lots of boating with Uncle Dan...we hiked 2.5 miles to a secluded swimming hole...fished...picniced...napped...rode rollercoasters...and celebrated this little cutie's 11th birthday.

(Happy Birthday my little Sunshine Superman!)

I canoed for the first time in my life. I fell in love with it the minute my paddle cut through the water. On our last night there, Dylan and I took a moonlit canoe ride out across the lake. It was so beautiful...and a little surreal...certainly one of those magical moments that will stay with me.

(My parent's roundhouse near Balfour B.C.)

B.C. was as enchanting as ever... There are so many things that make the Kootenay's my favorite area. The mountains...lush green forests...the heat of the sun (we had 40 degrees celcius everyday.) and the cool of the lakes and streams...The quirky little homes perched upon seemingly impossible hills...historic towns preserved with such pride...bursting with colourful art and music...the people. My ever-so-hip sixteen year old rolled his eyes, and dubbed Kaslo 'Hippyville'...I will simply reiterate myself, and say that every molecule of me calls it home.

In the past I've felt pretty blue leaving here...but now I am just taking comfort in the fact that somewhere...out there right now there is a little patch of paradise waiting for me and my bearded 'mountain man'. :)

(secluded stream in Sandon B.C.)

So now I have a week home to settle in, and get ready for school. The kids start in a couple of weeks...and my yoga program starts in less than a month...

I'm going to take a little while to catch up on all of your wonderful blogs too...:)
xo

~Four More Sleeps...:)~

2008-08-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

(Google photo of Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho)

After I suffer a little seperation anxiety dropping my pups off at the kennel I'm going...

Over the rainbow
To dip my toes in this cool, clear water...
Play with my children...
Hike these trails...
Breathe deep as I contemplate...
And meditate...
On all that is...and all that will be...

(Google Photo Kootenay Lake near Kaslo B.C.)

Then I will be sliding down this rainbow...
Into a fairytale village...
To daydream with Jon about creating our eco-friendly retreat for ourselves...family and friends...someday...
To hike through the relics of a long abandoned mining ghost town...
To journey down into the depths of our earth...
To build sandcastles...and float on the crystal waters and stare at the sky...
To reconnect with this special place that always feels like we're coming home...
For someday that's just what it will be.

~Weekend Meme~

2008-08-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

I'm having a pretty lazy Saturday putting off what I should be doing today...so in the true spirit of procrastination I decided to complete this meme I saw on Julochka's blog and listening to The Be Good Tanyas...

1. Your cell phone? None
2. Your significant other? Jon
3. Your hair? blonde
4. Your mother? creative
5. Your father? artistic
6. Your favorite thing? love
7. Your dream last night? magic
8. The room you're in? living
9. Your fear? FLYING
10. What you're not? high-maintenance
11. The last thing you did before logging on? laundry
12. Where did you grow up? British Columbia
13. Favourite drink? green tea
14. What are you wearing? tank top
15. Your TV? off
16. Your pet? Daisy
17. Your computer? hp
18. Favourite place? Oregon Coast
19. Your mood right now? cheerful
20. Missing someone? no
21. Something you're not wearing? shoes
22. Love someone? YES!
23. Your favorite color? green...any shade
24. Kids? three
25. Your life? blessed

Happy Weekend!! I think I'll go take a nap outside now...:)

~Mental Health Moment~

2008-07-30T12:48:00.001-07:00

(Miss Rhianna in her 'Namaste' tank top by moi.)
Okay...just taking a little break from:

~painting lily pads...
~the sound of two little girls and one little boy clunking around in high heels.
~dishes, and half eaten grill cheese sandwiches...and not crying over the spilled milk.
~listening to a timely conversation about who is and isn't a poo-head. (Apparently,I'm NOT one right now...but I may be uninvited from a birthday party or two if I keep insisting on help with cleaning up. Of course, not to worry, because I'll be reinvited as soon as it's baking time. Whoever gets to crack the egg will be loving me!)
~dog hair dust bunnies...and last, but certainly not least...
~various renditions of Miley Cyrus and High School Musical on the karaoke machine.(Note to self: It's your own fault for buying them.:)

Ahhhh....it's Wednesday. Happy Hump Day...only two more days till the long weekend. :) (I'm thinking of that old Seinfeld episode...Serenity now...serenity now...)

xo

~Home Views~

2008-07-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

(Click any photo to view larger.)
It seems that every other weekend(when Jon is at work)I make a promise to myself not to spend too much time cleaning my house...which inevitably leads me to spending too much time cleaning my house. I'm not a clean freak. I do not aspire to live in a magazine spread. Long ago I figured out that when you share your space with children...two BIG, hairy dogs...kitties, and whoever else happens to show up on your doorstep things are going to happen...

But yesterday I took the time to celebrate the rare little bit of tidy serenity that I got to enjoy...

This is where I spend ninety percent of my week days...I turned the old front room into the kid's playroom. It's big,and bright with all the old windows, and natural light spilling in.

Children are as charmed by history as we are. All the kids love the old school desk, and vintage Fisher Price toys...nothing stands up better!

Next to the playroom is our diningroom/art studio/greenhouse...

This is almost my favorite room...with all it's original mouldings and cabinetry, antique phone,and gorgeous French doors. (Which I always have to keep open and tucked away.)

There's no fine china in this china cabinet...just toys...and art supplies. And then there's my kitchen...I heart my kitchen...

(I think the passion vine hanging in the window is going to eat me someday...it's slowly taking the place over!)

It's not a huge space. We decided to stick to the footprint of the orginal one, but it works fantasticly for us. The kitchen is the last original room in the house...and it opens right onto the addition. If I ever manage to get the rest of the place presentable I snap a few pictures of it too...

What about your homes...what are your favorite spaces? I'd love it if you shared some pictures too! :)

.

~Through the Red Door~

2008-07-24T18:22:00.000-07:00

(click to enlarge)

Wander barefoot with me down this freckled forest path...
Mind you...watch your step,and keep careful watch...
For it's somewhere along here. I know it. Barely visible in this ancient underbrush...
There is a red wooden door, with an open heart.

Where did it come from? I don't know...
It has stood strong and tall for years...and yet hangs from no hinge.
Long battered by the weather, it still has a warm welcome for all who find it, and cross it's threshold.

And once through...what will you see? Well, let me just say...magic abounds.
The sun shines in a technicolor blaze...
Toadstools tower, and you'll hear a butterfly's song.
Daisies stretch up and tickle you...
Poetry lilts on every breeze.

Around a surprise bend we shall find...
An open meadow filled with flowers of colours you have never seen.
Giant, velvety bumblebees cheekily buzz to be stroked.
And here we will lie down among the blossoms to take all the wonder in...
and marvel at the sky.
The clouds take the shapes of our hopes and dreams...
As the words leave our lips.

We revel in this moment...knowing we will soon move into the next...
Which finds us walking home with dusk at our backs.
The forest turning in for the night...
And us full of joy and shared wonder...

Wishing you a wonder-full weekend. :)

xoxo

~Troubled Waters~

2008-07-22T13:26:00.001-07:00

('Ula' click to view large)

I'm finding it to be a very tumultuous time right now. The painting above is the first thing I have managed to complete in about a month. My mind is like that cluttered closet that you open...and shit falls out everywhere...Flustered? Yes, I guess that would be a perfect word to discribe my state of mind. And so I felt a little venting would be in good order...although to be honest, I'm not a very good venter...sort of soft-core if you will. It all comes back to believing that I've got no business being in this place, when there are so many others with bigger problems.

Speaking of problems...I've just started this great book, How to See Yourself As You Really Are, by the Dalai Lama.(Because after finishing a sweeping epic like Marley & Me, it's naturally the next thing on one's reading list.) Right off the bat...in the introduction, he got me. He speaks of how if we approach our problems with humanity...with love and compassion, the problem will cease to exist. If we face our problems with anger,or hurt we are just adding more problems on top the original situation. Someone very close to me is walking through a very difficult situation right now...the kind of situation where one doesn't usually find a whole lot of compassion for your fellow man. She knows we love her, and are willing help however we can... so there isn't a whole lot more I can do about it right now.

Then there is just the matter that I feel out of control. I can't seem to concentrate very well...I need to make a plan for my future. What do I want to do with my art..? What do I want to do with my yoga teaching? So far what I've come up with is a name...(Rising Lotus),and the idea to teach evenings art/yoga to children, and just yoga to adults. I would like to get my art out into galleries(I think!)...I don't know. See what I mean?

I just feel like casting all this disorder aside...and running...through the green grass and flipping a few cartwheels...or diving into the deep blue sea and becoming a sea goddess. Hmmm...I wonder if they ever have to deal with this stuff?

~Rhianna Banana~

2008-07-18T12:31:00.000-07:00

Nine years ago...my life was graced with a beautiful, little 7 pound 14 oz. package. In that moment, into my life came...
A Dreamer,
An Artist,
A Believer in Magic,
A Karaoke Queen,
An Actress,
A Comedienne,
A Dancer,
A Poet,
A Personal Fashion Designer,
A Fellow Yoga Enthusist,
A Wonder...

Happy birthday my beloved little girl!! Life just wouldn't be the same without you.

(My niece Jenny, and Rhianna mugging in the canola field last night.)

~This Morning's Song...

2008-07-09T12:05:00.001-07:00

My hearts skips...soft new sunbeams...falling upon all your pretty petals...

And you burst forth with your contagious joy and colour....

In the herb garden dwell the sparkling, fuzzy fairy flowers...

Majestic delphiniums rising up from behind the crab apple tree....

I bask in the meditative silence...this early light of day...

I so heart a quiet summer morning...and dreaming in sundried white cotton sheets. :-)
xo

~Ssssshhhh...breath...and remember....

2008-07-08T21:09:00.000-07:00

('Bliss Found In Solitude'2005)

Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair. ~Kahlil Gibran

~And They Lived (Mostly) Happily Ever After...~

2008-07-06T11:33:00.000-07:00

Seventeen years ago a girl and a boy who had been 'playing house' together for a couple of years decided to make things 'official' in front of their family and friends. The boy was terrified...but the girl knew that everything would be alright. She had known that this was meant to be from the moment she had laid eyes on him at a high school dance seven years before. How? She could never really explain it, other than it just felt like every molecule of her being shouted, 'Here He is!'.

There were lots of little bumps along the way...they were oh-so different. He was into working on cars...drag racing...heavy metal music. She was into poetry...art...classical guitar. His family was rather conservative...her's was artistic, and bohemian...Often he had teased her that she must have cast some sort of spell on him...A mystery...yes. Magic...maybe. She would certainly never tell.:)

Over the years though hearts and minds melded...although she still doesn't have any interest in cars or heavy metal...and he still smiles at her like she's crazy, when she starts talking about the ways of the universe. They have crafted a life of colour and beauty...Children...cozy homes...countless artistic endeavours...dreams for the future.

As in anyone's life...there have been those moments of pain and darkness. Blessedly...these fade into the back of their memories somewhere...

Seventeen years...of 'good mornings'...'good-nights'...'I love you's'...toes entwined under the covers as they fall asleep each night...

Seventeen years of learning...giving...taking...growing...and it only keeps on getting better and better.

I don't know where the next seventeen years will find us...but I am looking forward to finding out with you every step of the way.

Happy Anniversary Love...

~We Are...~

2008-07-03T07:03:00.000-07:00

We are...
Loving
Kind
Connected
Kindred...magical beings.

We are...
Boundless
Spiritual
Imagination-full!

We are...
Breath
Nature
Wonder
Our hearts beat
Pulses race
Laughter.

We are...
Freedom flowing like a stream
Into...and out of us...

We are...
Intuitive...
Mothers to our souls
Guardians of the past
Nurturers of our future.

We are...
Open to our possibilities
Choosing to let it all in
Choosing to let it all out.

~Dog Days~

2008-07-03T06:40:00.000-07:00

(My unhappy girl. :( )
Yesterday I had to take my pups to the vet for their annual check-up...Luckily (????) I already had the appointment booked, because we had just discovered that morning that our sweet Daisy Mae had a little raw spot under her collar, and to be really gross...it had an odour that would drop you. She'd been trying to lick her chest all the night before, and that morning. Weeellll....to make a long story short...the vet ended up shaving most of her chest(which required muzzling her, giving her a shot of antibiotics, oral antibiotics, and antibiotic cream. (And let's not forget the charming Elizabethan collar that she is now sporting for the next week or so.) So after such a stressful morning, she needed a little nap with her 'daddy'. :)

(My love, and the other blonde in his life. I'm only slightly jealous.)

~A Summer's Tale~

2008-06-25T13:12:00.000-07:00

(My 'throne' :)
Sandcastles stretching toward the sky...
Snapdragons hidden in a blanket lair...
Shining nights...gypsies' caravan...
Our secret wishes float up to the stars...
Firelight whispers...tales of times gone by.

Pretty thrones for dreaming...
Nestled under an ancient tree...
Conjured with love by my magic man.

In the shadow of an enchanted cottage...
Cloaked in red and green...
Princesses turn cartwheels...
And burst forth in joyous song...
While searching for fairies.
Are they hidden in those leaves?

(click to enlarge)

Little toddling princes marvel...
At butterflies and bumblebees,
Hitching rides on dragonflies...
Wondering where the treasures are to be found.

Somewhere...not to far away...comes a minstrel's lilting tune...
The sunflowers smile and sway...

~For You~

2008-06-24T09:49:00.000-07:00

2008-06-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

Yoga and meditation have become such vital aspects of my life...My pulse quickens when I flip my mat out on my bedroom floor and light my candles. It is this feeling I hope to bring to the people in my classes next spring...

When I was filling out my application for the instructor's program I was a little surprised by the deeply personal questions on it. One in particular caught me off guard...What has been your greatest life challenge, and how have you overcome it? It was the fact that I'd never even asked myself that question...and felt that I should have that struck a nerve.

I sat with this, and searched for an answer for about a week. I mean, we all face so many things both internally, and externally throughout our lives. In the end, I poured out onto that page what I felt was my most thoughtful, and soul-searched response...and sent it off to some complete stranger's hands...

Then last night I did something else that I've never done before. I attempted Bakasana(or Cranes Pose)for the first time. I've always looked at those arm balances as way to difficult...unachievable. I mean, were they serious? A normal, average person is going to be able to balance her body up in the air...on her arms? For sure I'd end up on my face...or worse with a broken wrist.

Yet, something last night told me to just go for it. And so, carefully...slowly...I followed each step...and as I gingerly tipped my torso forward, my feet left the ground...my arms straightened...and I was there! I was relaxed...and overjoyed at the same time. There was absolutely no fear...just love for this body, mind, and spirit coming together to achieve yet one more thing that those gremlins had been saying couldn't be done.

There are so many of us that seem more comfortable with living with our fears and doubts. In these past few years I have really learned that the cost of that fear is just too high. Are you putting off following a dream? Are you unhappy with your job? Are you in a relationship that doesn't work...but aren't sure how to leave? The truth is everywhere you turn... Shedding what is holding you back, and causing you unhappiness can only bring you joy, and health in the end. Think of how you feel when you are doing something you are passionate about. It's fantastic, isn't it?

Now in my mind, I have a little list of unconquered fears...and I was going to mention a few of them here...but I'm not. Somehow, I think that gives them more power...so I will wait until I've moved past the next one...when it becomes just a shadowy little ghost hanging around my psyche...

All of our tiny steps are taking us to our own uniquely beautiful places. :)

xo

~G is for Grace~

2008-06-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

(My gramma's charm bracelet.)

Grace Elizabeth Fairhurst. She was my mom's mom...and one of the most powerful positive influences in my life. When I was a little girl growing up in Victoria, I spent many weekends at my grandparents home, which was a stone throw from the beach.

It was a wonderous...magical place...filled with love and creativity. I can remember sitting at their kitchen table with my sisters. We had those pink foam curlers in our hair, and we sat for hours sipping tea, eating Peak Frean cookies, and cutting out paper dolls. My gramma helped us sew clothes for our Barbies...taught us to knit...and of course took us to the beach with grampa. I loved collecting seaglass...shells...digging for clams, and getting squirted...dipping our toes into the freezing surf...running from the waves, laughing, as they rolled in trying to catch us.

These memories are stamped on my brain...and they are the reason I get a little heartsick feeling everytime I have to leave the ocean. I am not much for material things, but the bracelet pictured above, is a truly treasured thing. I had always loved my gramma's silver charm bracelet...and after she passed it was handed down to me. What I especially love about it is how each of the charms represent events in she, and my grampa's lives...

This latest children's painting that I just finished was inspired by so much that is and was wonderful in my life...magic...colour...patchwork quilts...and love...always love...

(Click to enlarge)Grace and Her Magic Horse

I dreamt of something magical,
In a faraway turquoise sea...
A little cowgirl mermaid...
Upon her peaceful steed.

She rode upon his back of brilliant
Patchworked scales...
Gliding of to secret places...
With of flick of his genteel tail.

xo

~A Little Love From the Kitchen~

2008-06-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

(the clean part of my kitchen this morning.)

Now I'm no Martha Stewart...(insert 'Thank God' here.)but in an effort to put off all the things I should be doing this morning, I thought I'd come here and share a few little goodies that I've really been loving lately...

*My morning smoothie. Since I've quit drinking coffee,and started drinking this, my energy level has skyrocketed...and it's pretty simple to make...

1 cup of soy milk
1/2 cup of organic frozen blueberries
1 cup of organic baby spinach leaves
1/2 a banana
1 tbsp. of organic flaxseed powder
1 tbsp. of Greens+
1 scoop of Proteins+

Pop this all in a blender...and you're good to go. I find it keeps me full until lunch...and a couple of cups of green tea give me enough of a caffeine buzz to get by.:)

*Homemade Veggie Spray
I find it really hard to get all the produce I need organically...unless I want to drive an hour each way twice a week to get it.(Which is just not practical.) This is Sophie Uliano's recipe for Veggie Spray. It is supposed to remove a lot of pesticide residues from your produce...and of course clean it. It's super simple.
In a spray bottle mix:

1 cup of filtered water
1 cup of white vinegar
1 tablespoon of baking soda
20 drops of grapefruit seed extract
(This mixture will fizz like crazy to begin with, so I'd mix it in the sink.)

Then all you do is spray your food. Let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse.

The last thing I wanted to share was Homemade Lavender Water.I found this recipe on the internet somewhere. You can just lightly spritz your fabrics with it, or use it in your iron...(although I try to avoid mine like the plague.)

In a glass jar or spray bottle mix:

1 cup of filtered water
1 tablespoon of vodka
15-20 drops of Lavender essential oil

I'd love to here any of your new recipes or ideas that are making your life a little more lovely too...

ox

~Feeling The Love....

2008-06-06T10:21:00.001-07:00

My camera has been obsessing over our garden lately...She's been poking around in all the nooks and crannies...loving all she sees...appreciating the fact, that all this beauty is oh-so-fleeting...

What is more romantic than the Bleeding Heart?

Who smiles more than the Cosmos?

What is more nostalgic than the lilac?

Our garden is home to many...bees...butterflies...birds...frogs,and Lily-Loo...the Queen of Our Jungle...

And then my camera captures an ever-elusive creature...

(Should he not know by now there is no escape! :)

Love and Light to you....
xo

~In The Midst....

2008-06-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

Now, I am fully aware that what I am about to say will make me sound a wee bit kookie...but as I made my morning trip to the composter with my lovely bucket of banana peels, teabags, and watermelon rinds, I found myself ever-so-slightly jealous of my garden...

You see,all around me things are blooming...reaching...growing...Each bud, seedling, blossom...they are all in the midst of doing what they are meant to do, and they know it. They know little by little, day by day things are going as planned centuries ago...

I, however, am having one of those days where I'm just not sure. I'm usually a pretty 'live in the moment' person...but it's nice to have a little inkling of where your headed, right? And it's not like I don't have any ideas...if anything the problem is my brain gets all disconbobulated (now, I know that's not a real word, but I like it.:) with them.

I think maybe it's just the apprehension. I know in the next few years...as my children grow, I'm going to want, and need to make some major changes. Jon, and I often sit and chat about what we want our future to look like. As strange as this sounds, it kind of scares me that our dream is fully within our grasp.

Seriously, what could be more terrifying than sitting in an Adirondack chair, in the middle of a meadow petting a sweet little goat, and looking at all the pictures in the clouds above you.(Now that's a very small part of my future, but a part none-the-less.)

I don't know...this is just some crazy, rambling post from a girl that definately got up too early this morning...and obviously needs another cup of tea.

I think I'll go do a little daydreaming...

Sending you at least one happy little daydream today too...

xo

~Happy Girl~

2008-05-28T17:47:00.001-07:00

I am a happy girl, oh yes I am! I recieved a package of sunshine, and goodness yesterday...Now, McCabe's lovely rocks are gracing my other sea 'treasures' on my kitchen window sill...Other good things...* Newly printed business cards, and brochures for this weekend's auction...and not feeling too weird about doing a little self-promotion. (A little weirdness is a good thing, right?)

* Reminding myself that as long as I feel healthy, and can move my body anyway I want then I really have nothing to complain about...

* Our gorgeous apple trees, and their gorgeous blossoms of raging colour.

* Being excited about the archeological dig that I get to go on this weekend...to uncover the herbs in my herb garden. Honestly, my flowerbeds are all suffering major quack-attacks...(As in good old 'quack grass'.) Plus, I can finally plant my veggie garden, now that the rains have finally stopped. (Touch wood!)

* Being equally excited about ideas for a new series of children's paintings I am also going to start this weekend...Cowgirl Mermaids!

* Sitting down sometime this weekend to watch P.S. I Love You. My sister-in-law guarantees I'll be bawling my eyes out. (Well, alright...bring it on!)

* Playing my guitar on the front porch...softly, so the neighbors don't hear.

* Kids that drive me mental, but that I can't help but love them to death...

* My furry-faced husband. Even though we both dance to two very different tunes,at the end of the day we always find our toes curled up together under the covers.

* The fact that all these things...plus about a million more can't help but fill my heart with light...

Have a beautiful weekend...
ox

~Befuddled~

2008-05-22T19:03:00.000-07:00

Isolda's Search...16x20 Acrylic(click to enlarge)

I sat down at my computer tonight, and 'befuddled' was the first word that popped into my head. This is totally how I've been feeling the past few days...my mind feels like a disorganized...overstuffed closet. There's some really good stuff hiding in the back though...I just need to root through everything.

First...there is the painting that you see above. I have struggled, and struggled to complete her all month. This is a special piece that I was asked to do for a charity auction. I was so honoured to be asked...but almost as soon as I went to work on it I heard those harsh little whispers...Why are you bothering? Who do you think would bid on this piece of crap? Thankfully, I am a little wiser...I am able to push the whispers aside, and sing out words of kindness.Somedays I would just stare at the canvas...I changed the colour palette three times...I have loved it, I have hated it...I have completed it! Tomorrow I will happily hand her over, and let it go. I find everytime I go through this process, it gets easier, and easier.I know someday those whispers will not come!

Having a horrible cold, and non-stop rain for the past three days...and three more days forecasted doesn't do much for one's spirits either...

There are other things that are going on too...I can't really talk about here, but I'll just say...I am beyond thankful to have the husband, and children that I do.

I'm just having a little vent...and I feel kind of silly doing it, but in a good way?:)

Let's just say I'm looking forward to tomorrow...rain and all!

xo

~Treading Softly~

2008-05-19T14:21:00.000-07:00

(My flip-flop feet in the woods...with sweet Cooter.)

This weekend was a definite mixed bag...emotionally speaking...First,I had a call from a woman on Thursday night, who wanted to use my front porch for wedding photos on Saturday. I was more than happy to do it...even though it meant me getting up brutally early Saturday morning to decorate it. One of my absolute favorite things to do when the weather gets warm is to make my porch all comfy for us to hang out on summer nights...It's lovingly referred to as our 'outdoor living room'...and it's different every year...

(Come on over for tea! ox)
On Friday, I got offical word that I have been accepted into the Yoga Teacher Program that I had applied too. I am very excited! This is the first step to a dream I have of teaching yoga and art to children...and adults. I start in the fall...so by this time next year I will be certified...and ready to go!

We then went camping out at my in-law's place. I had the most beautiful, meditative walks with my dogs. You know the kind of walk where with each breath, with each step on your path your are reminded to be be present? There is a heightened sense of connection as your feet make contact with the solid ground beneath you... I noticed every sunlit leaf on every tree...the shape of every wispy cloud in the gorgeous blue sky...every new little wildflower beginning to bloom in the ditches...heard every bird singing... I was reminded that I am a part of all this beauty around me.

I also had a rare opportunity to just sit and talk with my mother-in-law. And though we talked of a subject that neither of us were happy about, I think just spilling out the words brought us both a little bit of peace. I know it did me, anyway.(Jenny and Rhianna. xoxo)
I also had time to hang out with my kids and my little niece, Jenny...
(My beautiful boy...Joe)And I also managed to capture an image of my 'camera-shy'love...definitely not an easy thing to do! :)
(Love you Jon!)

Then this afternoon, I went to work planting my kitchen garden...I am never so happy as when I'm up to my elbows in dirt! And so...strawberries...herbs...and some butterfly attracting perennials have found a new home beneath my kitchen window...

We packed a lot of love...and fun into these three days! What did you do? I hope you had a great weekend following your heart's desires...

~What A Difference A Week Makes...~

2008-05-15T09:05:00.000-07:00

(My house May.9th!)

Last week I woke up...put on my clunky winter boots...and the rest of my winter garb to go shovel the eight inches of snow off my walkway.
Today I am in shorts,and a t-shirt...going to put on my flip-flops and work in my garden!

It has been a strange week for me...
A week of an overflowing toilet flooding the bathroom and basement...
A week magic! Watching a baby crawl one day...and take his first step the very next.
Sunshine...garden shoots...playing at the park.
Long dog walks...and baseball practices...
Facing a creative brick wall...and then suddenly breaking through...
Finally taking a leap, and sending off my yoga instructor program application...
Feeling happy and sad at the same time...and for no apparent reason...
Reading to much...trying to hard...and most definately thinking to much!

I'm now looking forward to a woodland weekend of family...and fresh air...
A weekend with my easel...guitar...and camera...
Good food...good times...and oh, yes...shorts and flip-flops!!

I hope whatever you're up to this weekend puts a little light in your heart...
xo

~It Goes Without Saying...

2008-05-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

To those of you who are moms...and those of you who are wanting...trying and hoping to be moms with all your heart and soul...Happy Mother's Day...

Oh, and here is a wonderful quote that I think needs to be spread to every woman all over our world...

Woman is born to create… in creating she becomes herself, accomplishes her destiny. Her whole life is only an initiation into creative power. To create is not merely to produce a work… it is to give out one's own individuality.-Jeanne de Vietinghoff

May your day be filled with Love and Light...

Journey Back...

2008-05-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

It was just a quick glimpse...a shadowy form hidden behind a hugely overgrown tangle of caraganas...barely seen from the road.

A fairytale castle long forgotten by the prince? No, just an abandoned farmstead. A common site along our rural Alberta landscape...yet none-the-less enchanting...

In places we literally had to crawl on our hands and knees to find a way through to it...but when we did we were spellbound! There was such a warm spirit about the place...it swirled about us...happy to have visitors, I think. Time...and years of harsh prairie weather had not been kind...and yet, from somewhere unknown I saw the pretty new house...clad in cedar shakes brought by train from B.C. The front door gracefully framed in lattice...a tumble of Virgina creeper growing over it, welcoming all who came...There was...
Love...
Laughter...
Children running and playing...a dog happily running alongside them...
Laundry...freshly scrubbed hanging on the lines...
Bees buzzing...a young woman singing as she went about her daily chores...
A pot of soup bubbling on the woodstove...
Vegetable gardens...fields of wheat...
Chickens clucking...cows...horse-drawn ploughs...

Ramblings from a life of long ago...

My First Meme...

2008-04-29T08:31:00.000-07:00

(click to enlarge)
I was over reading BohemianMom's blog, and she had this cute meme on there...and since I've never done one before, I thought I'd give it a shot...

1. What I was doing five years ago:
~Pretty much what I am doing now. Caring for little ones, and creating whenever I could.

2. Five things on my to-do list:
~ finally finish organizing this house!
~ start my seeds
~ finish the painting I started two weeks ago
~ take my yoga instructor course, so I can get teaching....
~ take back my overdue books to the library

3. Five favourite smells:
~ I have a very poor sense of smell, but the ones I can pick up are...
~ mint
~ lavender
~ Nag Champa
~ ylang-ylang

4. Five junk-food items I enjoy:
~ dark chocolate(it's kind of good for you...)
~ red wine...(also kind of good for you...)
~ coffee(I drink organic, but still way too much!)
~ thick cut sea salt potato chips
~ Canadian Moose icecream

5. Five favourite articles of clothing:
~my belly dancing scarf
~ my cozy cashmere aran cardigan(because I knit it myself)
~ my yoga pants
~ my husband's ripped sweatshirt(the perfect loungewear)
~ my new pashmina

6. Five things I would do if I was a billionaire:
~ donate like a wildwoman!
~ Make sure my kids,and close relatives were financially secure, but not spoiled...:)
~ Buy an old house, with a big old barn, on Salt Spring Island, and make it completely eco-friendly...live off the grid...with gorgeous gardens...and tons of trees....and an art studio, and workshop for Jon.
~ Have an organic farm....yoga studio/antiques store/flowershop...all in one...
~ Own a horse....and lots of big,cuddly dogs and cats...oh, and maybe a goat or two...

7. Five of my bad habits:
~ procrastinating
~ overanalyzing things
~ swearing
~ talking to myself(I'm not sure if that qualifies...)
~ starting a new task before finishing the other

8. Five jobs I've had:
~ daycare worker
~ receptionist
~ special needs assistant(working with autistic children)
~ waitress
~ artist

9. Five all time favourite movies:
~ Pride and Prejudice
~ Love Actually
~ About a Boy
~ Fried Green Tomatoes
~ Sleepless In Seattle

10. Five favourite bands/musicians:
~ Joni Mitchell
~ Liona Boyd
~ Deb Talan
~ Coldplay
~ Blue Rodeo

I'd love to read yours....so feel free if you're so inclined...:)

Hope you are having a beautiful day!!

A Pretty Little Treasure...and Purchased Bit of Spring

2008-04-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous Garden Necklace by Jen(click to enlarge)

I had my breathe taken away this morning as I unwrapped a little red box...This is beyond beauty...To say that I LOVE it would be a big understatement. Jen, you've done it again!

I have been doing a little reflective hibernating under the snow...My mind has been so foggy and jumbled the past few days.
But...today I've come out to greet the sunshine....and bought myself a bit of early spring...The colours just made me smile...I hope they do the same for you...

(click to enlarge)

This is one of my favorite parts of my house...my little breakfast corner... I got the table at an auction. There was an elderly couple in town that was moving to the old folks home. I paid 1.00. It's probably from the 30's or 40's...Anyway, I couldn't believe that no one else would want it. I love to imagine all the breakfasts that they must have had at it over they years...The quilt on the table is an antique crib quilt that I bought on our first trip to the Oregon coast. Jon thought I was nuts to buy it because it was so tattered...but that is what I love about it...

Do you have a favorite space in your home? Special treasures...maybe with untold tales? I'd love to hear about them...

And wherever you are...I hope you are having a wonderful day....

~I Am~

2008-04-14T19:28:00.000-07:00

In this vivid of a cool spring morn...
Quivering jewels scattered across the green...
In this soft quiet...change...
I am nestled in the delicate comfort...
of my own chrysalis.

Here within I am not...
A wife...
A mother...
A lover...
A sister...
A friend...
Or daughter...

I am not too much of one thing...
And not enough of some other...

I am wanting for nothing...
I am waiting for nothing...
I am shapeless...weightless...fearless...ageless...

I am emerging lacy breath...by lacy breath...
Coming forth...unfolding my new-formed limbs
I am only love and light...
I am the truth of being.

~Home Again...~

2008-04-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see.” Henry David Thoreau

Well...we made it back late last night, after a marathon fifteen hour drive! I came home feeling pretty weary from the road, a bad case of what I'll call 'car-seat bum'...but with the most wonderful sensation of enchantment hovering about me.

It was a totally fun weekend cruising...listening to the satellite radio...talk...loving and laughing...all the while watching the landscape transform along the way. I realized two hours into the trip that I'd forgot my camera bag...duh!!(This after I made countless 'note-to-self' reminders all morning before we left!) So, of course, we saw more wildlife than we have ever seen on any road trip before...brave mountain goats in the Rockies...herds and herds of deer in our Alberta foothills...elk...bison....and one lone, majestic moose.

Portland was lovely! Rainy...magically misty...cloudy...oh, and the sun did peep out a couple of times on Saturday afternoon just to say 'Hello!' to us.(We felt very privileged.) It was GREEN...lush lawns...ivy tumbling...moss thriving. It was BLOOMING...tulips...the sunshiney faces of daffodils were everywhere...roses...and some kind of trees that were covered in outragously pretty pink flowers. Magnolias? I don't know what they were except gorgeous!

We got blissfully lost looking for the Stars antique mall, and found ourselves on Oak Street(?)...with it's stunning, I mean STUNNING jewel-toned Victorians. Seeing how obviously these painted ladies are loved and cared for was delightful. I found myself wanting so much to know the colourful souls within.(And that was just a little tease...you can get a seriously sore neck twisting to see all the architectural lovlies!)

We did find the antiques mall. It was wonderful...we just wandered. I got some heavy duty creative inspiration...but in the end all I bought was a light green depression glass jug.

The weekend went by way too fast...and yet too slow. Coming home to my children,I did realize that truly, it wasn't so much what I looked at...it was what I saw with a little change of scenery...the timelessness of love...of family...our history...of our big beautiful planet...and all that it holds. I am renewed.

~Portland Bound~

2008-04-02T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well...tomorrow Jon and I are leaving for our weekend in Portland. This will be only the second time that we have left our kids in almost sixteen years I am sorry to say. The first time was last year. Honestly, this is something that we should have done more...especially when the kids were younger. I find it hard, as admittedly I am a little neurotic with planning...worrying..ugh! It is hard for me to go without a little apprehension...even though I know my kids are in the loving hands of their auntie, and have a whole fun weekend planned. I know once we get going I'll be alright, I'm just awful with goodbyes. We are driving...which will give us hours and hours to talk...and laugh...and dream. I'm looking forward to checking out this beautiful city a little bit more...uncovering treasures in the antiques shops.(Thanks for the leads Jen!)...And the real truth is, that in spite of my tendencies to worry...there is that part of me that is looking forward to casting my everyday routine aside for a few days to go on a little adventure...

I hope you have a wonderful...rejuvenating weekend!

xoxo

~A Little Whisper From the Universe~

2008-03-30T20:59:00.001-07:00

I just love when I get little messages from the universe. Tonight, I was sitting with my beloved sister-in-law Jane, having a few glasses of red wine...She said to me that she had been thinking about me, and my art...and she thought that I really need to do some more children's things...she'd been missing my children's work. The funny thing was that I had actually been kicking around this idea in my head for a little while now.

When my children were a little younger, I used to do lots of children's art...and design, and sell children's clothing. I truly loved the whole process of creating each piece of clothing...whether it was smocking...embroidery...painting...applique...I was passionate about each stitch...I felt a lot of pride in sending out each piece knowing that it was created with such love and care. I was actually doing quite well at it...but true to form...as soon as I felt myself getting somewhere, I pulled the pin on it.

I have spoken here before of my past tendencies to sabotage my success...to deny myself doing things that bring me joy...
I honestly, believe that I have crossed a major bridge...the gremlins have been left on the other side...I do hear them whispering now and again, but now I can plug my ears, and yell....'la,la,la,la...I can't hear you!' I am feeling protective of myself...something I have never felt the right to do before.

I am revelling in how good it feels to be ready to surrender myself to wherever this creative paths leads...allowing myself to be gently nudged to the place I need to be. I also take so much comfort in knowing that I am not the only one feeling this...I'm in beautiful company.

So...let us walk wherever our bold hearts lead us...

'night Sweet Girls...

~Striking a Balance~

2008-03-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

This is the painting that I have managed to get done this week. It makes me smile, because when I was painting it the whole time I was thinking about how much I wished I could be swimming in serenity with these girls.

The kids are on Spring break right now...which means I have a really full house! I've been tangled up in blanket forts...covered in paint...accidently sitting in blobs of multi-coloured homemade playdough. Baking cookies...building block towers...and seeing smiles...smiles...smiles! These little ones are SO sweet!

It hasn't left much time for anything else...yet I found balance. I have found a few scraps of time to do some Sun Salutations...to sketch...play my guitar(On Top of Spaghetti). I am sure if I hadn't found a way to do this I'd not be sitting here at naptime on this Thursday afternoon...sane...and smiling!

(But PLEASE....PLEASE...PLEASE Weekend, could you hurry up and get here!!!!)

Peace and love to you...

~Knock, Knock~

2008-03-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

She has arrived, Spring! Well, the weatherman said it's not official until close to midnight here...but she's on my cottage's doorstep!

I am an avid gardener...as avid as a girl living on the Canadian prairie can be.

I have been feeling a little like I imagine my mid-March garden must feel. A little bit soggy...sloppy. Applecores...Halloween's pumpkins...eggshell...bits of the past...gracefully decaying...creating fertile ground.
Speckled with pods...seeds from a season gone...
Lying in wait...breath catching with anticipation...

For those of you interested in eco-friendly clothing please check out magnoliapearl.com. I have got to get myself some of this loveliness!(Once upon a time...fairies on my front porch...)

Have a beautiful day!
xoxo

~Magic Follows....~

2008-03-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

I have been....
Breathing...contemplating...
Trying not to lose my balance...
Letting go...but...
Holding that which is precious to me...
Sinking into glorious...beautiful colours...
Surrounding myself with song...and kindness...

I did this painting on Tuesday...as a deliberate reminder to myself to keep my heart and eyes ready...for the magic that is sure to follow if I stay open to it...

Does magic follow you?

~Sweet Dreams~

2008-03-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here thinking...'Uggghhh...I can't wait to get to bed!' Instead, for the moment I will sit here and pour out this little rambling from my conscious...I've been in a bit of a 'funk' for the past few days. We've had beautiful...sunny days...and I've only seen grey. There are things I wish I could speak of here....there are people in my life right now that I wish so very badly I could help...but due to circumstances totally beyond my control I sit in silence...I haven't painted since Friday...my house is a complete mess...which coincidently mirrors my state of mind...

Right now my daughter is upstairs singing Fleetwood Mac's 'Dreams'(of course, that makes me smile)...fresh out of the tub...and getting into her jammies...My cue to go upstairs,snuggle up, and read with her...a little Anne of Green Gables is on tonight's agenda I think...

Then after I tuck her, and Joe in, I shall go sink into one of my favorite places...my beautiful antique clawfoot bathtub...with a cup of tea...and turn the faucet off and on with my toes while meditating on this unease...searching...for the wisdom in this moment...I know it is hiding here somewhere...right?

Wasn't it Scarlett O'Hara who said,'Tomorrow is another day?'

Love and Peace to you (Sorry for the downer post!)
'Night.

~Winds of Change~

2008-03-04T12:04:00.001-08:00

~Brianna~
(Acrylic 9x12)

She calls upon the Wind...
Longing to hear the lilting voice...
Of the spectre who will guide her way...
Along the arduous path...

Softly comes a disarming song...
The voice, her own...springs from within.

~Through The Looking-Glass~

2008-03-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

Last night I was going through my bedtime ritual...and as I was rubbing in my face cream...looking in the mirror...I thought of how quickly I zeroed in on my 'faults'. My crooked teeth...wrinkles...scarred nose...dark circles under my eyes. These things don't really bother me that much...I have a pretty nonchalant attitude towards them. They're just there...and they are a part of me. And the funny thing is that I'm guessing most people wouldn't even notice them.

Then I started thinking of how our own perceptions of ourselves tend to differ so vastly from how others see us...and not just physically...personality wise too...
I think for the most part, others view us in a kinder light than we see ourselves.

Do you think you see yourself clearly for who you are? Would you like to peer into the looking-glass, and see yourself as others do...even for a few moments? Do you think you would be surprised by what you would see?

I think I am just beginning to see myself clearer... I am still contorting to fit inside this skin of mine...and show my own true colours...

Peace and comfort to you...

~Etsy Endeavor~

2008-02-26T20:15:00.001-08:00

~Aina~

I have been feeling as if I've been walking on clouds the past few days. The whole process of painting...photographing my paintings...editing...listing...It has been such an awakening...a labour of love...a reminder of who I am...what I'm doing...and that I am right where I should be. I am revelling in this sense of purpose...

For those of you sweet girls who asked, here is the address to my etsy shop:http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=73287.

Now I'm off to dreamland...

xx