Phoenix Peacock's Fiery Inspirations

Happy Friday: Joyful Germs

2012-01-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

1. Saturday - we went on a date to the National Western Stock Show in Denver. I've always wanted to go and I'm so glad we finally did! (unfortunately the Rodeo was sold out though)

This furry cow was so cute. He almost came home with me!

It was a super fun date night!

2. Picnik is closing. This does not make me happy. But what does make me happy is now I get to play with all the extra features that previously cost money. I have a feeling I'm going to be doing some photo editing from now till April!

3. Sunday - The Patriots won and are playing against the Giants in the SuperBowl. It was a fun day of football.

4. Monday - It was a rough day but I got little text pick-me-ups from my the wonderfully sweet and happy Kary. Sometimes its the little things that make the biggest difference!

5. Tuesday - Rather than our typical supervision and consultation, this week all the multisystemic therapists that specialize in problem sexual behaviors went out for lunch. After specializing in family therapy with families that have youth sex offenders... our humor is a bit twisted. And the humor was a nice break from what is typically a pretty rough job.

6. Wednesday - My birthday!

Not my typical birthday since the Hubby was too sick to speak/get up from bed. We forgoed my family's tradition of Belgium Waffle breakfast. But he did hum me happy birthday even though he couldn't really speak!

My co-worker/friend took me out for Pho during a lunch hour. Just to have a lunch hour is nice .... to actually go out and eat lunch with good conversation/humor is even better! I also only did meetings with other professionals with some of my clients, rather than see my clients in the typical family/individual sessions I run... which meant an easy work day without anyone calling me names, cursing, or any of that craziness! And I was done by 6:30PM which is an EARLY day!

And despite him being home with Strep throat, this is what I came home to from my hubby:

And inside that remarkable wrapping job... a lens for my camera! Lucky me!

And since our throats were scratchy it was a quiet night of soup and icecream with an early bedtime. But it was nice just to cuddle and be sick together. And we topped it off with hot toddies, as my family swears on the healing powers of whiskey. :)

Also, facebook was bombarded with lovely messages. It was really sweet.

7. Thursday - I was supposed to be in training all day but woke up too sick to go. Blessing in disguise? possibly! Instead I got to stay home, eat soup and drink tea, and catch up on my paperwork without staying up late. Of course I also felt like I was dying, but you know, you take what you can get!

8. Friday - A good majority of today I felt like a hot mess or I was completely knocked out sound asleep. However, thinking about all these happy things for my happy friday made me.. well, happy. I'm such a lucky girl to have so much to be thankful for. One of the blessings of having chronic illnesses is that acute illnesses really don't set me back mentally the way they seem to effect others. And so today, my heart is overwhelmed with joy.
And with that I give you this week's painting.

9. I'm going to watch Princess Bride. It is the best sick-day movie ever. And I can quote the entire thing word for word.. well I could if my throat wasnt so scratchy!

10. Tomorrow night I had plans to meet a friend for drinks. Obviously me and my germs are not gonna make the date. So instead she is insisting on bringing me lemon sorbet and doing a ding-dong-ditch to avoid contact with my germs. She is an absolute sweetheart. Thoughtful people are the best people.

Whats making you happy this Friday?!

Happy Friday!

2012-01-21T00:42:00.000-08:00

Just a few paintings done last week. This week my work days were much too much too long.

from the prompt "I will not enable ___ this year" I had to do a little response art to a client that keeps talking about "throwing in (her) mom card". Its a pretty big pet peeve of mine when parents say they are done parenting. I understand if you are tired of parenting... but guess what, you are a parent, you don't get to be done.

from the prompt "I want to improve ____ this year"

Another thanks to An'Angelia for the prompts.

And its Friday... so of course I still have my mental check list of red balloons floating in my mind.
These are the red balloons making this Friday a Happy Friday:

1. This fabulous combination of two great loves of mine: Star Wars and Dogs

I've seriously watched it about 7 times or so today... it makes me giggle each time. And that black lab looks so darn happy to be a part of it. Now if only there was a German Shepherd in the mix...

2. Some friends will be hosting a superbowl party in February. They actually are not football fans, but they like to throw gatherings with good food. It should be a blast. And they've promised the game will be on too. The above video got me excited about the commercials!

3. My bunny ring... an early birthday present from the hubby who calls me Bunny

4. Some more bunnies I found while thrifting (which is cute because Hubby used to call me Blue Bunny because I had blue hair)

5. Listening to Etta James. Her legendary voice will live on.

6. One of my friends started a program while we were in college together, where he began raising money for orphans in Hondorus. He has now just built his very own orphanage and school. I'm always thrilled to see his facebook updates. He is a modern day hero and has really seen his dreams become reality... in a big way.

7. The weather has been warm for January the last two days. It will change quickly, but I've been enjoying it while it lasts. And this weekend I'm looking forward to meeting up with a friend for a walk with our pups.

8. Hubby and I have plans to go to the art museum and then catch the rodeo. I love our dates!

9. Its my birthday this week and my hubby has been acting awfully cute about it! I'll have to work, but I've decided that I'm not going to have any evening appointments. Hubby is also not going to work into the evening and we are going to go out for dinner during the middle of the week --- which happens just about never. I'm excited!

10. I got a birthday card from my grandparents. They've been declining in health over the last few years and my grandmother (the one who used to be on top of everyone's birthdays) has advanced alzeimer's. She usually doesn't remember exactly who I am even when I'm visiting and has a much harder time placing me when I'm not there in person. Although I try to write them weekly, I haven't gotten a card from them in a few years. It was a really sweet surprise.

I'll try....

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

zombie face

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

being sick makes me feel like a zombie. but even too tired to chase for brains.

MLK a day late.

2012-01-17T21:16:00.000-08:00

“On some positions, Cowardice asks the question, "Is it safe?" Expediency asks the question, "Is it politic?" And Vanity comes along and asks the question, "Is it popular?" But Conscience asks the question "Is it right?" And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must do it because Conscience tells him it is right.”
― Martin Luther King Jr.

Collage Response from a 6 year old

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

From my six year old nephew...

Bad quality photo, but AMAZING quality collage. His crab is made up of other ocean themed images - fish and a shell. I think his ability for composition plus his ability to go with a theme is just genius.

It is now proudly hung on my refrig!

Fairmount

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

As a bit of my self care and in hopes to achieve my goal of becoming a better photographer, when I have time in-between client sessions, I take my camera for walks in interesting places nearby my client's homes/schools/courts/wherever I am meeting them.

Providing community based services has its perks.

Last week I took a walk around Fairmount, a beautiful, historic, and HUGE graveyard in the middle of Denver.

portraits of a different kind

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

I took a couple hundred photos on a solitary artist date I took myself on to the Denver Zoo.

Here are a few I thought worthy of sharing:

the bear isn't as good of a photo, but I like his big grin:

The quality of this photo of the monkey isn't good either.

But it was just so darn cute.

A toddler was waving around a brightly colored toy and

this little monkey was trying his hardest to figure out how to get through the glass

and snatch that toy for himself!

Mail Call: Collages

2012-01-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

from the very lovely Micaela.

I love a note to ring in the new year.

This also inspires me... I should really start dating my notes.

For Christmas I sent one nephew a how-to collage book.

I thought I would send he and his brothers some funky silly collages to inspire his exploration in art.

* may your mailboxes be bountiful this year *

Happy Friday: An'Angelia

2012-01-05T23:16:00.000-08:00

My happy list, like mental red-balloons floating around my mind to remind me that this is a Happy Friday:

1. My blogger-friend An'Angelia has been supplying her readers with daily prompts forever. This week for Paint Party Friday, I'm showing you the watercolors created from her prompts for this week.

2. TV shows started up this week. I havent had much time to watch them, but today I have a short work day and then I can come home and veg out for a bit.

3. Super glad it is a short work day. I am facing a flair-up in my illnesses and yesterday felt like it took forever to be done with... so today it will be nice to start the weekend a little earlier. Also regarding my flair-up. It is a nice reminder that I am not this sick or in this much pain all the time. And I'm really thankful for that.

4. Talking about sicknesses. My little nephew has been having some serious health issues for two years and can't seem to eat without throwing up. The doctors thought it might be something that would require surgery... he has been in and out of the hospital all week, and it is looking like there might be a much easier solution. He has been a real trooper and is doing well.

5. The client that has cussed me out and called me names every time I've met with him actually behaved himself yesterday, was bordering polite, and even smiled once or twice. It was a miracle. And well-timed considering #3.

6. Today is Little Christmas (the Epiphany, Three Kings Day). Merry Little Christmas!!! I love that my family celebrates this. I wish I had time this morning to make waffles, but we will have to skip that this year. However my hubby will get one small gift from me and I will bake something with a luck-baby inside. Traditions make me happy!

7. I somehow lucked how and got to drive all the nice company cars this week for work. It sounds silly - but it really does make a difference when I have to drive long distances between clients' homes.

8. Before I come home and veg... my camera and I have a date.

9. Yesterday morning my mom called me all excited that the Duchess is supporting art therapy. My mom was super cute and encouraging about it.

10. This quotation from Sydney Smith: ‎"Resolve to make at least one person happy every day, and then in ten years you may have made three thousand, six hundred and fifty persons happy, or brightened a small town by your contribution to the fund of general enjoyment."

2. "I will ____ less in 2012"

3. "I want to learn ___ in 2012"

4. "I will find greater balance in my life"

5. "I will pamper my body by doing ___"

6. "I will nurture my spirit by ___"

(WIP)

Where is #1 you ask... check out my earlier post this week :)

Thanks An'Angelia for the prompts!

A sunset inspired dinner...

2012-01-04T22:20:00.000-08:00

Tonight's dinner was inspired by the beautiful, beautiful sunset this evening.

I could see the sky turn glorious colors as I finished typing up my notes for the day at the office.

I quick ran outside to try to capture it. Unfortunately I missed the *perfect* time when the entire sky was full blaze. But I'm happy with what I did catch:

Then it was to the grocery store and on to home (*can I mention how nice it was to get home at a decent time tonight. An 8:30 - 5:30... almost the same hours as a typical job!)

This recipe was slightly modified from the one at Appetite for Adventure

Sunset inspired colors: Red cabbage, orange carrots, white daikon

Cloud inspired texture: Vietnamese spring roll wrappers

Add some extra bright orange from bell peppers, and some pinkish patterned shrimp...

all ingrediants inspired by tonight's sky.

and voila: a quick and easy dinner.

New Year Resolution: Breathe

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

A couple ideas from Jennifer Conrad in slowing down and taking deep breaths that I thought I would share:

1. Put a pretty postcard of a place you;d like to visit or a souvenir from your last vacation in a handy to reach place - the sun visor in your car, the top desk drawer in your office, or framed on your vision board/wall. When you are stuck in traffic, answering emails/phone calls, or needing a quick breather - look at the image and imagine your cares melting away.

2. Take quick breaks to say a meditation, prayer, mantra, and/or affirmation. If you need to "use the restroom" or "take this call" to get that time fit in, then do it.

This is my combination of #1 and #2 for today: a photo from a camping trip summer 2010.

2012-01-01T22:28:00.000-08:00

Linking up with An'Angelia who provided me with this prompt for Jan. 1

I feel fine

2011-12-27T05:00:00.000-08:00

It is the last week of 2011. Hard to believe.

And R.E.M.'s song is on re-play in my head.

via
(interesting side note... my father's initials were REM)

I am curious to see what is to come in 2012. Not just personally, but generally as well.

Christmas mail call

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays due to how busy my mailbox becomes with season's greetings!

I love the vintage feel of this fantastic postcard sent from Kitty

Somebunny knows my nickname is bunny and goes out of her way to pick bunny themed things to send my way! Oh she know me well. Thank you my darling dear Micaela!

Santa cheer from my new love, Kary.

From Chantelle in the UK:

And Chantelle included this beautiful ornament:

Thank you Chantelle!!!

I love being a therapist with therapist friends. This cracks me up:

I also love being an artist with artistic friends. Some fabulous art mail arrived for the holidays:

From another art therapist, friend, and peer:

From the talented and always encouraging Kelly

From the ever inspiring and always thoughtful Janet:

Janet sent me a random little package out of no where before the holiday season hit.

Why?

Because I had mentioned that my childhood nursery was Peter Rabbit themed and that I saved onto all of it for my child's nursery. How thoughtful and touching is that? And the best part is that it arrived after a 14 hour work day of having a client scream profanities at me. Ahhh... to know someone out there has a kind heart after a day like that... divine!

To one of my dearest friends who just celebrated her birthday and is about to celebrate her wedding:

And my Christmas card.
I'm sharing my letter with you all:

Happy Holidays!

I love this time of year because it is a time I get to hear from all of you and we can take a moment out of our busy lives to catch up and share all the joy of the past year.

Hubby has continued to work for IBM and go to school to study forensic computer-y stuff... maybe its computer forensics. Yes, that sound right, but I still can't tell you any more about it. I do know that Hubby and I both share a passion for TV shows about crime and in particular, serial killers. It is very romantic stuff.

This year, Hubby has really started to enjoy mountain biking. He even has padded shorts; it is serious business. This leaves me teasing him until I'm literally eating his dust as he goes past me. There was one day that I was determined to beat him... it didn't happen; I obviously blamed it on not having padded shorts, obviously.

I *finally* graduated with my masters in Transpersonal Counseling and Art Therapy (I swear it isn't the same as underwater basket weaving) and went out into the "real world". I am working as a multisystemic therapist, which is a type of in-home family therapist for families that have a teenager labeled either "at-risk" or as a youth sex offender. It is intense work but also has a lot of perks, like:
* I am reminded daily what a great family I have. It would be unprofessional to say "nanny nanny boo boo, my family is better than yours" but sometimes I think it.
* my children (no, we don't have kids yet) won't get away with anything. I now know all the tricks in the book (I really hope future holiday letters don't make me eat my words due to having raised delinquent children.)
* it also gives me proof that I was a good kid albeit blue hair, tattoos, and loud music
* it has a pay check! It is a huge raise from making a whole $0.00 as an intern. Awesome, because student loans are due. I thought about going straight through for my Ph.D. to avoid having to pay those back just yet, but then my brain threatened to self destruct.

During the summers I continue to work as an art therapist at the Colorado Heritage Camps for adoptive families. It is a job I *LOVE* and have no snarky comments for. I ionly wish I could figure out how to make it a full-time all-year position.

This summer we took our first vacation together since moving to Colorado. We went to Maine and Massachusetts and spent our third wedding anniversary in Chatham, Cape Cod, the town we were married in! It was a delightful get away. We also had a lot of family visit Colorado this year. It was so much fun to see everyone. Speaking of family... we are expecting our 13th niece or nephew in 2012 from Hubby's brother. Even though it is our 13th, it is the first baby on Hubby's side of the family! We love being aunt and uncle - so we are pretty excited!

All in all, life is good!

I look forward to hearing all the joy you've had in your year!

May your blessing abound in the year to come,

xoxo Bunny.

Sleep Shopping.

2011-12-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

I can't sleep. So instead I'm screen shopping playing make pretend I have money and can buy myself these items for Christmas.

From Beautiful Details by the Sea Shore

From Kelly's Art Journaling

I would kill for this hat and glove set. SO freaking cute! From Stylish Knitting

since the bunny is my spirit animal after all... From Sandra n Dan

Mojo Spa is divine. The infinity scarf I love reminds me of a rebel woman in a bomber. Totally 1920s love. And the bow! oh the bow. Coco would be proud.

Down time in-between a family session and a court date.

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

A quick walk around Fort Collins, Colorado

Thanks Karina

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Not only was my marvelous ornament package wonderful...
it made me feel wonderful too.

As part of it, Karina gave me the coolest peacock feather earrings.

I wore them to work yesterday. It was a long crazy day. And one without caffeine. Bad idea.

Despite the craziness I kept getting compliments on my fantastic earrings along the way.

So when I finally got home late at night, I had to say thank you for giving me something that made my day survivable.

Thanks Karina!

See!

(I'm such a dork)

Feeling fabulous and sassy

Paint Party Friday: Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-08T21:08:00.000-08:00

Easy peasy pallet christmas tree

if you are cheap like me and refuse to put a pretty pennie to buying a christmas tree

this is a fun, easy, and FREE way to be festive.

Step 1. Score yourself a pallet.

Step 2. Pull it apart.

Step 3. Paint those bad boys

Step 4. Cut them in decreasing lengths for a tree-ish shape

Step 5. Nail it all back together. Only really needs on nail per limb.

Step 6. Sand it down

Step 7. Display and decorate.

Step 8. Eat lots of cookies and have some spiked egg nog.

PS. step 8 is the most important. if you have not done this, you have not properly made your christmas tree.

Ornament Swap with Karina

2011-12-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

Sweet Micaela hosted her annual ornament swap and this year I had enough pennies to participate!!

I was SO SO excited when I was paired up with Karina from C'est La Vie

Karina SPOILED me! Her thoughtful carepackage put mine to shame.

So this girl knows how to pick accessories! I'm in love with the earrings. Peacock feathers are obviously a winner in my book. And those teal ones!! ooo divine. (PS Karina, the little polka dot feathers are another favorite of mine)

That flower, is a ring! I am so excited to wear it.

Plus some lip smacking good chapstick in berry flavor!

And cookies!
fancy ones at that

Karina's son, Miguelito, picked this little guy out for me.
HOW FREAKING CUTE!!!
He might have to stay out all year.

And then Karina picked this little flapper peguin because she knows I love the 1920s.
Plus it has teal glitter and feathers!

You'd think she had known me for years. She did good!!!

To send Karina something I knew she would like (or at least I really really hope she liked), I had asked her some interview questions. From those, I learned her favorite colors are red and silver.

I also loved her answer to my question to be glittered or not to be glittered.

"We all need sparkle in our life! :)"

How sweet is that?

My guess is that her son is that sparkle.

And when I asked if she had a favorite animal, shape or symbol... her response was absolutely touching. Here, I'll share.

"In Mexico it is believed that when someone passes away they

turn into butterflies. The morning before my grandfather passed away (he passed away during the night) I got an urge to get my first tattoo, I went and got one of of nowhere, it was a blue butterfly and it rest on my chest to the right side of my heart. I always look at my butterfly tattoo and think of my abuelito."

This little ornament idea came from Design Sponge

The only thing I did different was use invisible fishing wire to hang the butterfly so it was flying.

And then, just in case my homemade ornaments turned out to be disasters, I bought this one for her love of cupcakes:

and just because I've been on a banner kick...

Mail Call Monday

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-08:00

I am lucky to have three people write me regularly:

1. The lovely lovely Micaela, who's letters always make me feel so loved and understood. They really are what I look forward to most, and I check my mailbox every day hoping I'll have a little love from this darling girl. Don't you admire this handmade paper? It had such a lovely texture to it too.

2. My dear sweet Mommy. This postcard of Salome by Robert Henri captures my gypsy soul. My Mommy and I both fully acknowledge that we must have gypsies in our ancestry... our wanderlust is so strong, we have music in our hearts and bodies, and we will always overcome whatever obstacles are in our paths.

Mommy also visited the historic mansions in Newport, Rhode Island. It looks like it is Versailles, doesn't it?! This trip has been on my Mommy's bucket list for a while. Although I'm jealous I didn't get to go with her, I know she had a blast going with her best friend.

3. Sweet Kelly who is always so supportive and genuinely interested in how I am feeling and coping with my illnesses. She is one of those rare gems that actually gets it - and for that I am always thankful!
I love the fall beauty captured in this card.

And ^This card is one of Kelly's own sketches! Seriously talented, right? Guess what... she just opened up her very own etsy shop. You should really check it out. I'm lucky enough to have one of her originals, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. So hop on over to her store Kelly's Art Journaling and check it out!

In addition to the mail from me three loyal writers I got a wedding invation. This invitation is extra special because the bride is Tyler, of The Girl Tyler, who designs paper goods (in addition to being a photographer - namely a wedding photographer). She and Martin are a cute couple who are really laid back, artsy, and retro. How cute is her idea of a record and album? So cute!

And just to brag on my friend a little more. Please check out this Save the Date video she made for one of her clients....

Save The Date | Kim & Ly | 1.28.2012 from The Girl Tyler on Vimeo.

today my heart hurts

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

It has been a very long, very hard week. There are times I question my profession.

Why did I choose to be a therapist? Why did I choose to be a therapist working with this particular population - the one that is hurting and breaking to such a powerful degree. The one where basic needs aren't met. The one where there seems to be barriers and obstacles every step of the way.

I've been told my heart is too big. It seems it always has been. For as long as I can remember I have had people telling me that I shouldn't let other peoples affect me the way I do. Sometimes their hurting and breaking becomes hurts and breaks in my own heart, even with all the self-care practices, the trainings, the previous experience.... it still gets to me.

There is a part of me that has to admit that I want it to get to me, I don't want to become hardened.
But at times, like now, my heart just hurts.

This week it seemed like all of the families I am working with were in extreme crisis. Whether it was placement, suicide attempts, or very serious legal consequences... the shit seemed to hit the fan in every single case. And while crisis is a big part of the job description, and I am trained well, and have a good support system with excellent supervision.... there are still times where I feel completely useless to these families because it is not in my power to take the hurt away.

In addition to the professional life, my heart has broken over personal issues this week too. Like Sunday night, the hours long phone call I received from someone I haven't spoken to since high school. Who called me because he had no one else he trusted to call, who called me to say that he still was scared from his last service when he barely stayed alive, who called me to say that he needed someone to say goodbye to before he went back to war in 2 hours, who called me to say he didn't think he was coming back. And as he cried on his end of the phone - miles and miles away - I cried on my end.

I am proud of who I am. I am proud of my big heart.
I like being that person, who even years later, you know you can count on to be there, whether I'm there for the fun positive stuff or during the scariest darkest moments.
I do. I take pride in that. But I also feel beaten up by it.
But I know I will continue to allow it.
I will continue to have my heart broken and opened.
Because to me, it seems that allowing that only makes my heart bigger with each repair.
And I would rather have a heart that is too big than a hardened heart.
I would rather feel the hurt than be oblivious to it.

But today, I'm finding time in my busy day, to do a little mending and repairing. I have my traveling sketch book with me, and in between sessions and court dates I plan on sketching and sipping tea. I can't wait to get home tonight, to curl up with my husband (the one that is there for me) and my sweet puppy (who only cares about food, balls, walks, and belly rubs and reminds me to enjoy all the little things life has to offer) and hopefully get an early nights sleep.

(The picture is by Shira Sela and is available at her Etsy shop. I think I might have to splurge and get it for myself as a little gift for surviving the week)

Random Things About Me

2011-11-16T05:28:00.000-08:00

So I feel like all my posts right now are either about painting or photography. Which I love both - but it leaves out some of that personal stuff. And honestly, the blogs I love the most are the ones with the personal connection.

A blogging friend, Micaela, hosts Wanting to Know You Wednesdays, where she usually discloses something about herself and then asks her readers to also. She is also a fan of having people tell her 10 random things about themselves.

So in the spirit of Micaela....

1. I really like Quotable Cards. I always end up hanging them on my vision wall or keeping them around the office for YEARS until I un-tape them from the wall and send them to a friend.
The above is one that I picked up sometime in undergrad. It has been taped to walls, refrigerators, and in the car. It is finally ready to be passed on to one of my friends (one who will overlook the tape)

2. The blog name Phoenix Peacock comes from a tattoo I have on my left shoulder. I have always loved the stories of the Firebirds, particularly the ones from Russia.

My mom had this fabulously illustrated Russian folktale story book that I just loved as a kid. I had a gold tutu that had lace I could wrap down my arms. It was my very favorite item in my dress up box and I always used to pretend I was a gold Russian Firebird when I wore it.

(Me at my 7th birthday party)

3. I am drawn towards birds in general... particularly when it comes to my tattoos. I only have two, but they are both birds. As a kid I remember going for long walks and climbing trees and just spending hours bird watching. I had a bird book and a monocular.

4. Even though my blog name is Phoenix Peacock, it should really be Bunny.
I'm the youngest (by a long shot) of 4 children. The three oldest (whom I've always called the Big Kids) were clumped together age-wise and then 9 years later I came along. My father's Air Force squadron teased my parents that they reproduced like rabbits... and so my nursery theme became bunnies.
Im pretty sure I have the entire Peter Rabbit and Friends collection.

Plus I have all sorts of homemade bunny items.
They are all currently packed up and in a box in my Mom's basement... just waiting for me to start a nursery with! I can't wait to unpack it all.
The bunny obsession continued later in life too. As a little kid, my oldest sister took me to see one of the Disney princess movies in the theaters, I think it was Sleeping Beauty, and when a bunny hopped onto the screen I just about screamed in excitement "BUNNY!!!!" I was much more impressed with the bunny than the princess. ha.
In college, when I first started dating my Hubby, I had a bunny named Puka. Without knowing about my childhood obsession, Hubby started calling me Bunny. And the obsession took off all over again. Anything bunny now gets the same excitement today that it would have when I was 4.

5. I really like teal. I think other than pink as a little girl, it is the only color I could ever say has been a favorite. For most of my life I didn't have a favorite color... so I guess I'm excited about it. Is that weird?

6. Speaking about favorites, I don't have a favorite season. I love different qualities about each one.

7. I am fascinated by different cultures. I want to know about their holidays, their food, their traditions, their dances, their dress, and their decoration. One day I really want to travel the world. And I hope the home I own in the future reflects all of that. I want furniture and decorations to reflect the many cultures I've had a pleasure of being introduced to.

8. I'm also really fascinated by sculpture, sculptural components in design, and in particularly - the use of upcycled materials. I like both the modern edge and shabby chic... but I really like the creativity and the new life breathed into items that use materials in new and exciting ways.

9. I have a fascination with metal and rust. I also have a fascination with paper, book pages, and old maps.

10. I have extreme wanderlust and always feel the urge to go somewhere and explore. This has been a life-long feeling. I also have a mind full of ideas - to the point it is hard to accomplish anything because I want to do everything.

What are ten random things about you? Or, if thats too much, tell me one project you've been pushing off, or only half-way committed to, that you really want to accomplish!

Barns, Sheds, and Silos

2011-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

No place is boring, if you've had a good night's sleep and have a pocket full of unexposed film.

-Robert Adams, Darkroom & Creative Camera Techniques , Page: 37

At our best and most fortunate we make pictures because of what stands before our camera, to honor what is greater and more interesting than we are. We never accomplish this perfectly, though in return we are given something perfect--a sense of inclusion. Our subject thus redefines us, and is part of the biography by which we want to be known.

- Robert Adams

Your own photography is never enough. Every photographer who has lasted has depended on other peoples pictures too - photographs that may be public or private, serious or funny but that carry with them a reminder of community.

- Robert Adams

Inspired by Robert Adams

2011-11-14T11:29:00.000-08:00

There is an exhibit by Robert Adams at the Denver Art Museum right now. I found it 100% inspiring... particularly since his photos were taken right in back yard. I had already taken these photos, but now found the time to revisit them, edit them, and share them with you!

A series of Trees from a bike ride I took awhile ago....

more photos from the same ride soon

Happy Friday: Believe

2011-11-11T06:54:00.000-08:00

When I was in undergraduate school, there was a guy on campus, who every Friday for all four years he was there, would carry red balloons around with him and greet everyone he met with "Happy Friday." I got to know him and he was so inspiring. Before college he had been in a severely bad car accident that resulted in multiple physical and cognitive disabilities. Even though it took away his talents as an athlete and set him back drastically physically and mentally, he was just so positive about life. And part of that positivity was recognizing that every Friday is a celebration. He had made it one more week!

Although he and I have lost touch, and I don't even remember his name, every Friday I think of him.

Every Friday his positive spirit still reminds me that no matter what is going on in life at the moment, it is still a celebration to have made it through one more week.

I think he has forever changed my life and my outlook.

This Friday. I am celebrating these things that make me happy:

Its Veteran's Day. This doesn't make me happy in the usual sense, but it makes me grateful. And I believe that gratitude goes above and beyond happiness. In fact, I don't think you can be truly happy without being grateful.
New love. I love seeing my friends who have just gotten married or just had a baby. New love is an instant reminder of that feeling, and then you look over to your partner that you've been with for years, and you feel all gushy and butterfly like. And all of a sudden your reminded that each day, no matter how long you've been together, there is always the choice to fall into new love with your partner all over again.
Also Old Love. I love seeing old couples that are obviously so happy and in love together after decades. It is inspiring. It is sweet. We all know there are days where liking our partners or being likable to our partners is difficult. To know that that is just a single day and not worth ruining the years or even decades to come... plus old couples are just so freakin' cute!
Dance parties when you are stuck in traffic. It makes me giggle. I don't care that other drivers think I'm crazy... I'm having a lot more fun than they are as they yell miserably at the car in front of them.
Audio books. I now have clients that are 130 miles away from each other. With the intense therapy I offer, I see my families a ton... so I am in the car a ton. And audio books make that fun!
Getting unexpected mail from a friend just because she knows that my illnesses have been giving me a really hard time lately. It is pretty lovely when people reach out. I don't think anyone realizes how even the littlest thought of support can mean. Its huge.
Paying it forward. I have a project in mind that combines a bit of #1, #2, and #6. Please see the bottom of this post.
Time with friends. Tomorrow I am hosting the second monthly art making party. It will be really nice to see a friend I haven't seen since graduation who is coming. Also I love making new friends and will be glad to see the ones that were at the last art making party in October, and to see some new ones too.
Art making time. Like I said, art making party! whoo-hoo!!!
Believe. Whether it is believe in a spiritual being, believe in magic, believe in you... beliefs are so important, so worth it, and definitely help with the happiness factor.

Something I believe in is the power of community, the power of a single act of random kindness and love.

My young cousin, Meghan, just graduated from school and married her high school sweetheart, Jack, in the Summer. As soon as they were married, they moved from the furthest you could be on the East Coast of the States to the furthest you could be on the West Coast of the States, where they knew no one. All because her sweet new Marine husband was stationed there. And now he is in Afghanistan, where he will remain over the holidays. Meghan is very brave and very upbeat, but she doesn't have the support that she would have if she and Jack had been with their squadron for a while first, and she doesn't know anyone else in California other than the co-workers at the job she just got. And Jack is serving his country for the first time - completely new territory both actually and metaphorically. I know many friends and family that have gone through this, and they all say the love and support they received was a phenomenal part of getting through it. So this veterans day, I'm asking for your love and support.

Wouldn't it be great to take a moment and just write a little note or make a sweet little piece of art to send to Meghan and/or Jack? Just something little, not anything big, not anything that will take much of your time...

would you do that for me? for them?

if you are game for it, please send the letter/art/whatever to me (I'll send them all as carepackages) so that I can surprise Meghan and Jack by forwarding them on... on the envelope just say if it is for Meghan or Jack, so it gets to the right half of the couple.

in care of:

Phoenix Peacock

423 South Dover Avenue

Lafayette, Colorado

80026

USA

You'd be so awesome if you did!

Ketchup!

2011-11-06T10:02:00.000-08:00

“Three tomatoes are walking down the street…papa tomato, mama tomato and baby tomato. Baby tomato starts laggin’ behind and papa tomato gets really angry, goes back and squishes ‘im and says… Catch UP"

Because I've been taken pictures each week for Ashley's scavenger hunt Sundays. I just haven't had time to load them, edit them, and show them. But here are the last two weeks... hopefully I'll even get todays up and posted by nightfall!

1. Words

2. Orange

all decked out for Halloween

3. Under

4. Fly

5. Always Look on the Bright Side

Bright Trail is one of our favorite places for camping/hiking.

1. Macro - close up.

(hard to do if you don't have a macro lens)

2. Found Texture

(held a potato sack in front of the lens)

3. Home

If my hand is in his, then where ever we are, I am home.

4. Cover

5. The Tree

Happy Friday: Boo!

2011-10-29T00:17:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Although he and I have lost touch, and I don't even remember his name, every Friday I think of him.

Every Friday his positive spirit still reminds me that no matter what is going on in life at the moment, it is still a celebration to have made it through one more week.

I think he has forever changed my life and my outlook.

This Friday. I am celebrating these things that make me happy:

1. My monthly reports are almost done. I'm so glad they only come once a month.

2. I have not been bed-ridden once while being sick this month. Sometimes you have to remember just how fantastic the basics are. And after all, that isn't very basic.

3. Its Halloween weekend!

4. I'm not in school! Last year for Halloween I was up all night writing a paper. Finally had to turn off the porch light because the trick or treaters were interrupting my paper writing too much. It made me feel like the grinch. This year I have tons of candy ready to be handed out (and eaten too... I have very little self control)

5. We had snow this week. It was beautiful.

6. The trees had leaves so the snow made them heavy and there were lots of snapped limbs and branches . Thankfully none seemed to seriously damage any houses or cars that I've seen. And none were in my yard!

7. I bought myself coke zero. I almost never have any sort of pop in the house. But coke zero goes so well with rum. YUM.

8. The cold weather also means lots of my favorite teas

9. I got to make my first batch of homemade soup! YUM.

10. And I have some art to share with you again this week.

Linking up with Paint Party Friday with some Holiday Spirit.

I want to grow old together

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

Work at the end of the month means lots and lots of paperwork. And since some of my cases are ending, it means more paperwork.

So what did I do?

Procrastinate!

I watched the movie Lovely, Still. Holy crap - it was not what I was expecting and I had mascara down my face by the end of it.. but it was still really good. So that is your warning that it is definitely a tear jerker, and yet still worth watching.

And then I immediately curled up with my Hubby and held his hand and told him that I wanted to grow old together and that I would always love him no matter what.

(all photos found through google images: cute old couple)

It would be divine to grow old together. Hard, sure, but still divine.

-------------------

A lovely article from SheKnows.Com about how to support a friend with breast cancer.

LISTEN AND BE PRESENT

It is important to be a good listener. Someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer is afraid, angry and uncertain. Listening to these fears and being present with them, even in silence, can be a source of great strength for the person fighting cancer. Allowing them to express their anger and fears also demonstrates that you will be there to support them through it all, rather than abandoning them when times get tough.

BE A FACT FINDER, NOT AN ADVICE GIVER

The initial diagnosis of breast cancer can lead to shock and anxiety. It is helpful to support the individual by gathering facts about dealing with the disease, treatment options, and community resources, such as support groups. However, helping your loved ones find information is different from giving them advice about choosing their treatment or plan of care. Listen to them as they talk about their options and be helpful by finding more information as they desire, but don't give out unsolicited advice.

BE SUPPORTIVE OF YOUR LOVED ONE’S DECISION

A myriad of decisions must be made by your loved one in relation to the treatment process. Your loved one will not make these decisions lightly and it is important to be supportive of their decision, even if it is not the road you would have chosen.

LAUGH

Remember the old adage “laughter is the best medicine”? Don’t be afraid to laugh and have fun. Living with cancer and supporting someone with cancer can be stressful, and learning to laugh together can help get you through the tough times that you will face.

ACKNOWLEDGE THE GRIEVING PROCESS

The diagnosis of breast cancer for a woman attacks her very femininity and many of the treatment options continue in this attack. It is normal to go through a grieving process related to the feeling of this loss of femininity. Be supportive by listening to her anger, fear, and uncertainty and don’t be afraid to hug her and touch her.

GATHER A SUPPORT NETWORK

A variety of support groups are available to individuals living with breast cancer, as well as for individuals supporting a loved one with breast cancer. This is one of those times where you can’t do everything alone. Ensure that you have a positive group of supporters surrounding and uplifting you as you care for your loved one and don’t take on more than you can realistically do. Joining a support group is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength which will be invaluable to you and your loved ones throughout this difficult time.

HAVE SOME FUN

Go do something fun! It is vital to focus on more than just the disease, because your loved one is so much more than a diagnosis. It is important to do something fun – plan a girl’s night chick-flick movie marathon (or horror flick marathon if that is more to your liking), or, pending your loved one’s energy level, go out to the park, go to a game, take a walk, or go out to dinner. It is OK to laugh and have fun.

BE YOURSELF

It can be challenging to know what to do or say when supporting someone living with breast cancer, but it is important to be yourself. Being genuine shows your loved one how much you truly care about him or her as an individual, not a disease.
A warrior has strength and is prepared to fight through the challenges. Living with breast cancer requires the strength, steadfastness, and determination of a warrior; yet it cannot be done alone; it requires an equally strong and driven group of warriors who will support their loved ones through the highs and lows -- never giving up and never letting go.

(pulled from SheKnows.com)

Organization? Yes!

2011-10-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm a mess.

You too?

Yea, its human. It happens.... particularly when you are busy living.

But here is a random little tip for organizing instructions that I thought was kinda genius:

Clearly label the pockets of an accordion-style file with the name of each room in your home. Put the instruction and care manuals for appliances and equipment in the appropriate pockets. When you buy a new appliance simply staple the receipt to the instruction manual and file it. Then when its time to donate an appliance you can include the paperwork for the new owner. Or if something goes wrong, you have the paperwork that says what model number it is and everything.

Smart, huh?

One orgarnization trick I already use is using pouches in purses to hold things. That way I can easily switch purses without leaving behind anything essential. One pouch has pens and other office supplies. Another has my lip glosses, nail file, hand sanitzer, and toothbrush. Its always good to keep some bandaids in one too.

Another is that I organize my closet by category (both by type, ie. pants; and by dressiness) and then each section is organized by color. Anything I haven't worn in a year gets donated. Anything I don't really feel good in gets donated.
Also, not to be neurotic, but on weeks that I know I will be super busy, stressed, and tired.... I plan my weeks outfits ahead of time.

What is one organization trick YOU do?

-----------------------------------------------------------

American Cancer Society recommendations for early breast cancer detection

Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.

Current evidence supporting mammograms is even stronger than in the past. In particular, recent evidence has confirmed that mammograms offer substantial benefit for women in their 40s. Women can feel confident about the benefits associated with regular mammograms for finding cancer early. However, mammograms also have limitations. A mammogram will miss some cancers, and it sometimes leads to follow up of findings that are not cancer, including biopsies.
Women should be told about the benefits, limitations, and potential harms linked with regular screening. Mammograms can miss some cancers. But despite their limitations, they remain a very effective and valuable tool for decreasing suffering and death from breast cancer.
Mammograms for older women should be based on the individual, her health, and other serious illnesses, such as congestive heart failure, end-stage renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and moderate-to-severe dementia. Age alone should not be the reason to stop having regular mammograms. As long as a woman is in good health and would be a candidate for treatment, she should continue to be screened with a mammogram.

Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional, at least every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year.

CBE is a complement to mammograms and an opportunity for women and their doctor or nurse to discuss changes in their breasts, early detection testing, and factors in the woman's history that might make her more likely to have breast cancer.
There may be some benefit in having the CBE shortly before the mammogram. The exam should include instruction for the purpose of getting more familiar with your own breasts. Women should also be given information about the benefits and limitations of CBE and breast self exam (BSE). Breast cancer risk is very low for women in their 20s and gradually increases with age. Women should be told to promptly report any new breast symptoms to a health professional.

Breast self exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women should be told about the benefits and limitations of BSE. Women should report any breast changes to their health professional right away.

Research has shown that BSE plays a small role in finding breast cancer compared with finding a breast lump by chance or simply being aware of what is normal for each woman. Some women feel very comfortable doing BSE regularly (usually monthly after their period) which involves a systematic step-by-step approach to examining the look and feel of their breasts. Other women are more comfortable simply looking and feeling their breasts in a less systematic approach, such as while showering or getting dressed or doing an occasional thorough exam. Sometimes, women are so concerned about "doing it right" that they become stressed over the technique. Doing BSE regularly is one way for women to know how their breasts normally look and feel and to notice any changes. The goal, with or without BSE, is to report any breast changes to a doctor or nurse right away.
Women who choose to do BSE should have their BSE technique reviewed during their physical exam by a health professional. It is okay for women to choose not to do BSE or not to do it on a regular schedule. However, by doing the exam regularly, you get to know how your breasts normally look and feel and you can more readily detect any signs or symptoms if a change occurs, such as development of a lump or swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, nipple pain or retraction (turning inward), redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin, or a discharge other than breast milk. Should you notice any changes you should see your health care provider as soon as possible for evaluation. Remember that most of the time, however, these breast changes are not cancer.

Women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15%.

Women at high risk include those who:

Have a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, but have not had genetic testing themselves
Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of 20% to 25% or greater, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history (such as the Claus model - see below)
Had radiation therapy to the chest when they were between the ages of 10 and 30 years
Have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or have first-degree relatives with one of these syndromes

Women at moderately increased risk include those who:

Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of 15% to 20%, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history (see below)
Have a personal history of breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), or atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH)
Have extremely dense breasts or unevenly dense breasts when viewed by mammograms

If MRI is used, it should be in addition to, not instead of, a screening mammogram. This is because while an MRI is a more sensitive test (it's more likely to detect cancer than a mammogram), it may still miss some cancers that a mammogram would detect.

For most women at high risk, screening with MRI and mammograms should begin at age 30 years and continue for as long as a woman is in good health. But because the evidence is limited regarding the best age at which to start screening, this decision should be based on shared decision making between patients and their health care providers, taking into account personal circumstances and preferences.

A little show and tell

2011-10-25T08:26:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to show you the halloween wreath I've made.

I started with using one side of a box, by cutting it out from the box and then trimming out the middle.

I wasn't too worried about getting exactly straight lines. This is for halloween, after all.

I then wrapped purple yarn around it.

The rectangle shape is trickier than I thought.

To get all the corners I had to cut too incisions on either side of the corner. This weakens the wreath, so I then taped up the back of it to add more support.

In the end the neatly tightly done yarn was to clean for halloween.

So I went over the wreath again a second time, leaving the yarn looser and messier.

I had some feathers from a lovely hat of mine that Sasha had chewed up when she was a puppy.

I also had some left over mirror and bead things and halloween sticks from halloween decor years before.

I obviously just never throw things away.

I only bought two things for it.

The "Beware" was part of a banner with ghosts. The ghosts are now flying solo over the door. And then the crow. These both were on sale at Michael's and cost me about $4 total.

___________________________________________________________________

For the rest of October, I'm trying to add more Breast Cancer Awareness to my blog...

Today a little excerpt written by Julie Halpert from a 2005 Woman's Day magazine (usually I find articles when I'm searching through up-cycled magazines for collage... just saying):

"A little exercise... may go a long way when it comes to preventing breast cancer. Recent studies have found that even modest amounts of physical activity can decrease your risk of developing the disease.
...
(a) study, conducted by researchers from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle and other institutions, found that women between the ages of 50 and 79 who walked briskly for four hours a week reduced their risk of breast cancer by 20 percent.

And that's not all. Exercise may also reduce fatigue associated with chemotherapy treatments, as well as decrease the risk of recurrence in women who have been previously diagnosed with and treated for breast cancer.

The message is simple: The more you exercise, the more you benefit, says Colleen Doyle, director of nutrition and physical activity with the American Cancer Society in Atlanta. And the exercise doesn't have to be strenuous. 'Women of all ages should just get out and be active for at least 45 minutes a day. Maintaining a healthy weight and diet are key ways to prevent breast cancer.'"

Mail Call Monday

2011-10-24T06:15:00.000-07:00

I love that my darling pen pal knows that I love everything bunny. Its been my nickname since before I was born.

Check out the most glamorous Save the Date from my dear friend, Tyler. She is a photographer and a graphic designer. Can't you tell?! Do you have an event needing some glamourous invites (or if you are in Virginia and need some fab photos)... check out The Girl Tyler.

And little something sweet from the UK!

a little love, after all, isn't that what mail is all about?

and some Halloween goodies.

The worst part about Mondays is getting up early and going to work.

But the best part is that a new week of mail has begun!!

Happy Friday 10.21.11

2011-10-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

My Happy list, like little red balloons floating around my mind:

1. Hearing my husband make me a latte. Going downstairs to find my latte in my favorite heart mug

2. Having planned on taking my husband out to dinner in the middle of the work-week. At dinner I found out that he had a really crap day and that the dinner plans were his light at the end of the tunnel. I love how that worked out.

3. Knowing that at 5pm today I can turn my phone off and not worry about my clients. If they need to call the emergency number thats fine, but guess what, I don't have the emergency phone this week! Not being on call 24/7 is awesome!

4. Finding out that the supervisor said I went "above and beyond" when using me as an example to another therapist. Kind of makes me feel like a rock-star and totally makes all the extra long hours worth it!

5. Getting to see a friend that moved back into town after moving away for the summer to be with her family when her dad died. I've missed her. And this whole summer I've been wanting to give her a hug. Now I get to.

6. The art party I had last weekend. It was a small group full of fun, creative energy, great discussion and a great art making time... and I got to meet a new person.

7. The new person I met lives just a mile or less away, she also has invisible chronic illnesses a lot like mine, we are both therapists, and now we are work-out partners. She and I went to the pool this week. Although I'm really out of shape and have to be extra careful to not overdo it on my knees and shoulders while swimming.... I love being in the pool. It is so relaxing.

8. The rec-center also has hot tubs. This week I sat in the one outside, on a cold night with a clear star-filled sky. It was lovely.

9. At work, I sneaked in some Guerrilla Kindness by leaving little notes that said "just because your awesome (and it's flu season)" and halloween-themed hand sanitizer. Only one co-worker knew it was me. The rest were surprised and left wondering who thought they were so awesome! Love it.

10. There is snow up in the mountains. Ski season has arrived!

What is making you happy this fine Friday??

________________________________________________________________________

Linking up with Paint Party Friday and all their awesome artists.

Here is the blow-by-blow of one part of the mess I made during the art party:

1. Tape is a wonderful thing.

I love being messy without worrying about going over boundaries, staying in the lines, or the end product looking like a train wreck.

2. See how messy I am?

Just throw that paint on there!

3. And don't try to make anything pretty.

Hell don't even think about the end product.

Just have fun.

Rolling paint is very soothing, by the way.

4. To go with my messy theme, I stick to using hand-made stamps.

(once upon a time I was a perfectionist... all this mess, my therapist would be so proud!)

4. Add some texture. Slap some random pieces of paper on there!

5. Create funky patterns by laying things down, painting over them, and removing them.

like a stencil... but messier!

Add some bubble wrap prints.

Pop some bubble wrap - just because its fun.

6. Finally stamp out the letter of your choice.

Charcoal makes it "pop"

7. Voila!

*This Paint Party Friday was brought to you by the letter E*

Oh, I love sesame street... man, I miss watching that show!

The final will be revealed after I've mailed it off to its recipient next Friday!

A little bit of Kindness...

2011-10-17T06:35:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many of you people know about Patience Salgado, the Kindness Girl, but all of you should (so if you didn't... now is a good time (well, after you've read this post first) to hop on over to her page). Today this post is kinda related to her Dinner with Jimmy challenge. I say "kinda" because it was a challenge that I found out about a bit late when I was catching up on her posts after a long week. More than likely I was going to run out of time to participate in it while it was actually a challenge... though I'm sure the Kindness Girl would have supported me in still participating past the 18th too, which is what I planned on doing.

Anyhow, I had told me husband about it and was brainstorming how to make a yummy gluten-free Italian dinner for a friend who has just gone through an awful tooth ordeal. I was thinking maybe Italian wedding soup - since it would be easy on her toofers. I've been meaning to drop by with some sunflowers, her favorite, anyway... so I think I will prep all of that to drop off tomorrow.

Agh. I keep getting side-tracked in my writing.
Sorry...
Stay with me - I'm just tired and lacking focus.

So then yesterday the pain I've been having for the last couple of days increased dramatically. Its all related to my chronic illnesses, but I'm still always surprised by how limiting it can be during a flair-up. In addition to having a full body aching with sore muscles I've-been-hit-by-a-mac-truck feeling, my feet had this weird intense pain where I could barely stand. It was bad enough, or I whined about it enough, that Hubby told me I could not cook because I shouldn't be standing....

WOAH. My Hubby never turns down a home-cooked meal.

Instead, he left the room for a bit and came back with this.

Another thing about Hubby. He doesn't cook.

SO WOW.
Granted the pasta was from the frozen aisle and is loaded with gluten and dairy. But still!!! (Oh and it was so good to have real pasta rather than the rice kind for once).
The salad was one of those mixes all ready to be tossed together.
But then notice those tomatoes with basil... thats all from our garden.

And so my darling, sweet, non-cooking husband totally surprised me with a Dinner with Jimmy.

Scavenger Hunt Sundays 10.16.11

2011-10-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

Linking up with Ashley

As always, you can double click on the image to make it larger... which might be helpful for #4.

1. Abstract

2. Round

3. Fire

4. Seeing Faces in Unusual Places

(see the face in the bush right next to the leopard?)

5. Stars

Happy Friday and a plant marker.

2011-10-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Although he and I have lost touch, and I don't even remember his name, every Friday I think of him.

Every Friday his positive spirit still reminds me that no matter what is going on in life at the moment, it is still a celebration to have made it through one more week.

I think he has forever changed my life and my outlook.

This Friday. I am celebrating these things that make me happy:

1. Getting to celebrate with a client who has made some *REMARKABLE* steps in changing her life around for the positive. Getting to that point in the therapy is as much a reward for me as it is for them.

2. Taking a family, who wouldn't otherwise have the money or means of transportation, to the circus as a reward for following their behavior contracts. I almost cried - for a family that requires assistance getting basic needs met, going to the circus was a big deal.

3. The cooler weather has meant that walks with Sasha have become extended. She seems pretty happy about it.

4. Figuring out a braided hairstyle that does something with the bangs I'm growing out

5. mmmmm fall flavored teas in a heart covered mug

6. Celebrating marriages with friends.

Her bachelorette party began with painting ceramics, and thats what I'm showing as I link up to Paint Party Friday.

I thought I'd share what I made.

I'm pretty pleased with how my plant marker turned out:

a fall escape

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Sit for a spell and visit the mountains with me, as this photo-heavy post transports you.

Over the weekend, we escaped to the mountains to see the aspens all ablaze.

It was a good spot, past all civilization.

And then just a little further up the road, all on your own.

Where it could be a romantic adventure with the love of your life.

And the dog...

Where you could feel firmly grounded in the environment.

Where there was space to breathe.

Where you could feel your spirit expand.

much needed family time away from it all...

Some Equine therapy

2011-10-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

My job is really hard, not that any job is necessarily easy, but this job definitely meets "really hard" as an understatement.

I work as a therapist with families that have a teenager(s) who is legally defined as "delinquent." Because this is often their last chance before the state decides that out of home placement is necessary, the therapy I offer is VERY intensive.

I see my families several times throughout each week. I am in the homes working with the entire family (this includes primary caregivers and all the other kids in the family), I go to all the court dates, and I am in the schools working on improving their behavior there (most kids in legal trouble are also performing poorly at school or are truant). I work crazy hours - way more than the 40 hours a week I'm paid for. I leave early in the morning and I often don't get back until late at night. A big part of my job is working with parents/primary caregivers on their parenting techniques (because kids wouldn't get into so much trouble if they had rules to follow, consequences and rewards associated, good supervision, and had positive behavior modeled to them). This, as you can imagine, often leads to some heated conflict. I can't tell you how many parents don't want to parent ... its ridiculous. If you don't want to parent your kids, then don't have kids.

Anyways... I'll stop myself from that rant - because that could last forever.

With any taxing job it is important to add self care into the routine. Yet it is a struggle to do that when you are gone from early morning to late at night and only have time to eat and sleep in between.

So I do what I can.

This week I had a home visit near some stables. The family had some safety concerns regarding one of the kids, so I had to stick around the area in case it turned into an emergency (but I was trying to empower the parents to handle it - so I didn't want to be right at the home) and decided to fit in a few minutes of breathing time with this guy.

his no-nonsense "hi there" approach made me giggle. So I had to pass it on to you, in hopes that it brightens up your day.

So take this post as a reminder to add some self-care into your day today, no matter how busy you are!

Let go.

2011-10-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

I gathered seed pods from the tree in my neighbors yard and added them to some fall blooms as a visual treat for myself.

We all deserve a little luxury in life

we all deserve bouquets

we all deserve reminders that we are loved and everything is going to be okay.

And as I gazed at my fall bouquet

I was reminded.

that fall is all about letting go.

transitioning.

And so I took a deep breathe and was at peace.

2011-10-09T12:18:00.000-07:00

This Sunday I am back to linking up with Ashley for her Scavenger Hunt Sunday. I've missed it this past month while I've adjusted to the crazy new work schedule.

1. Landscape

I'm in love with Colorado, particularly when the Aspens are ablaze.

2. Complementary/Triadic Color

3. Black and White

4. Food

5. Blank Space

the weekends... those times where my mind can just be a blank space.

Happy Friday: Doodles

2011-10-06T22:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

Although he and I have lost touch, and I don't even remember his name, every Friday I think of him.

Every Friday his positive spirit still reminds me that no matter what is going on in life at the moment, it is still a celebration to have made it through one more week.

I think he has forever changed my life and my outlook.

This Friday. I am celebrating these things that make me happy:

Doodles I did during a training.

Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

Last night a text reached my iPhone that Steve Jobs had just died. And as I type on my MacBook this morning... I had to say thank you for the amazing creative genius of Steve Jobs. It isnt just about product, it is about vision. The sleek design, the ease of use, the thought that goes into every little detail. The obvious pride with a job well done. And yet with all the seriousness of a business, MacIntosh has always been light hearted and a bit on the silly side. I think that reflects a lot about the man who created it.

A true visionary. An inspiration.

“Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… the ones who see things differently — they’re not fond of rules… You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can’t do is ignore them because they change things… they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” - Steve Jobs.

The above quotation is one that I've had on my vision wall for years. While there are many inspiring, moving, funny quotes from Jobs, this is the one that has always captured my spirit - motivated me to be a visonary too.

Whether you are an Apple fan or not, it is always sad when the world loses a great innovator.

Pink October

2011-10-05T00:21:00.000-07:00

When I watched football on Sunday, the 2cd, I was excited to see the annual pink on the field.

I think it is particularly terrific that a "man's" game with all male players is supporting a (primarily) women's illness with Breast Cancer Awareness month.

I planned to done my annual pink nail polish for the month of October.

I also got a little over-zealous and bought some pink extensions for my hair (on the days I won't be in court or presenting to other professionals).

But then I got into a pink I hadn't been anticipating.

With the introduction of fall comes the introduction of flu season.

Its one of the things I hate about my job - I'm in contact with way too many people, including lots of sick kiddos. YUCK.

The beginning of October has been a rough one.

I missed a really fun and important (to me and just generally important) fundraiser due to spending the majority of the weekend in a major staring contest with the toilet (the toilet won).

Monday I had to be on conference call to a very important meeting that I really wish I had been able to attend in person. Thankfully calling in worked well though.

But the rest of Monday I couldn't do over the phone and it felt too pressing to cancel.

Instead I spent hours driving to clients homes and schools while having to occasionally pull over to avoid throwing up in the car.

Then monthly reports were due and I was literally at the office until 11:45 pm.

No exaggeration - I was 15 minutes short of working a 16 hour day. HOLY HELL.

My stomach is starting to settle though.

And I was very cautious to not give my germs to any one else.

(I hate when sick people go to work and spread their diseases... again YUCK)

And I've thought of Breast Cancer Awareness every time I've taken some Pepto Bismol :)

MAN Candy Monday.

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

There are characters I find sexy... like Jax Teller or Mr. Darcy... but I don't really become hooked onto the celebrity portraying the character (Except for Brad Pitt who I have long time adored... and used to get irritated when my mom would tease me that she was just as close to his age as I was). Then I saw Thor and fell in instant lust with Chris Hemsworth.

My husband actually got jealous as I blatently gushed throughout the movie. I think that's a first for him. Ha.

Besides the fact that Chris Hemsworth will make you drool... the movie is excellent too. The other worlds are stunning. And it is based on the mythology which I love. This is definitely a winner in my opinion.

Marvel has made some serious good movies lately.

Has anyone seen the latest X-Men? Also a winner. Probably the best X-Men thus far.

And then I also saw Bridesmaids, which I had heard a lot of good things about. Wow.... what a freakin' dissapointment. It had some funny lines - but I felt like they were trying too hard; it felt forced. Though, there were certain lines that had me laughing so hard I had to push pause so I could hear what was being said after. So I wouldn't say it was horrible or even bad, just not what it was cracked up to be. I can't believe all the fuss Bridesmaids got. Apparently my facebook friends (where I get this sort of info...) and I are not on the same page as far as movies.

I usually wait until movies are released to DVD to see them, but now that I have a job I might scrap up a few pennies to go see Killer Elite and The Help during the cheaper matinees. Although, there are a lot of movies that just hit theaters that I'm looking forward to seeing in a couple months when they are available on DVD. Like Drive and Moneyball. Man - I miss the days where if I wanted to see a movie I just went and saw it. But really, if that is what I'm complaining about then my penny pinching woes are seriously not bad!

What about you? What has recently been released that you've seen and enjoyed?

(This Monday I'm playing along with my girls Claire and Marz who are all about their Man Candy)

A daily dose of gratitude #1

2011-09-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of gratitude. Honestly, if I could give people just one thing, it would be that they would have more gratitude. I think its the best soul medicine around.

And no one should preach a life-style they aren't willing to live up to.

So I thought I'd share a little gratitude idea I have. I have a facebook account with a 100s of "friends." In the past I used to do clean sweeps and delete anyone I didn't have regular contact with ... but then I figured out how important networking is and that if I ever moved back to my hometown, I might want to see a few of those highschool people that were pretty awesome and nice (and still live in town!) but who I don't always talk to when there isnt a chance for a get together. However, I am still strict about only "friending" someone I actually know.

About 2 years I began a little gratitude project. I am slowly working my way through my facebook "friends" and sending each one a personalized thank you message. I'm thanking them for a life-lesson, impactful moment, or some other thing they did that left a lasting effect on me. I really lagged on it last year, but I am picking it back up now with the intention of having emailed each and everyone of my "friends" by the new year.

The project stems from my own belief that every interaction, no matter how small, has an effect of some kind. Which is why I try my hardest (though I don't always live up to it as much as I'd like) to live with the intention of having positive interactions with everyone... regardless of how large or small that interaction may be. This belief system also allows me to view all others as teachers.

This project is also a warm and fuzzy. There are plenty of emails that never get a response back. Thats fine - I'm not looking for a response. But then there are some emails that do a get a response that just warm my heart. Sometimes I get a thank you in return. Sometimes I get a reply that says that I gave that person a boost on a really shitty day. Sometimes I get a reply that says that they really appreciate feeling appreciated. And wow - that just seems like a gift all over again.

What are you grateful for today?

(and today, specifically, I'm grateful for my hubby and his homemade latte that he woke up at 5:30 am this morning to make so that I would have it while I was sitting in rush hour traffic on my way to start a 13 hour work day. Poor guy normally doesnt wake up until 9:30 or so.)

Making an upcycled coffee table

2011-09-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Hubby and I wanted a coffee table. But we werent willing to spend more than $10 on it. Sure there were a few in our price range at thrift stores, but they were all WAY beyond our taste range. Since we couldnt find anything we liked without going above our budget... we built one.

To keep the project cheap we used pallet wood, and pallets are easy to find completely free!
The legs were upcycled from a previous life and were found at a local recycling center for a few dollars.

Then we just had to use a few tools we had laying around to cut the wood to the length we had in mind, nail it all together, and sand it down.

The only thing we bought that cost us was the stain used to create a darker, more finished look. I think the whole table cost us $7.

And now we are kinda on a wood-project idea kick. Nothing else in the makings, but I'm sure there will be!

Happy Friday 9.9.11

2011-09-09T05:13:00.000-07:00

Although he and I have lost touch, and I don't even remember his name, every Friday I think of him. Every Friday his positive spirit still reminds me that no matter what is going on in life at the moment, it is still a celebration to have made it through one more week.

I think he has forever changed my life and my outlook.

This Friday. I am celebrating these things that make me happy:

1. The end of Today!!! I will be so thrilled when the work day is over. I have to be at my first appointment at 7:30 this morning and probably won't be done with my last until 7:00 or so tonight.

2. The fall weather we are having. Sweater weather is perfect weather!

3. Coffee dates with favorite new coworkers

4. Little happy messages on tea bags and food containers.

5. My supervisor's salted chocolate chip cookies.

6. My ability to only eat a few and not go overboard.

7. Getting an over-due library book returned.

8. Getting some mail off my desk and on its way to the people it belongs to.

9. The bubble bath I plan to take tonight.

10. Did I mention how excited I will be when I finally get home tonight?! YAY! Its the weekend!

This is me offering you a red balloon of celebration. What is making you happy this fine Friday?

Say YES

2011-09-08T11:00:00.000-07:00

The following is from Eric Schmidt, executive chairman of Google:

Find a way to say yes to things.
Say yes to invitations to a new country, say yes to meet new friends, say yes to learn something new.
Yes is how you get your first job, and your next job, and your spouse, and even your kids.
Even if its a bit edgy, a bit out of your comfort zone, saying yes means that you will do something new, meet someone new, and make a difference.
Yes lets you stand out in a crowd, be the optimist, see the glass full, be the one everyone comes to.
Yes is what keeps us all young.

Happy Friday 9.2.11

2011-09-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

When I was in undergraduate college, there was a guy on campus, who every Friday would carry red balloons around with him and greet everyone he met with "Happy Friday." I got to know him and he was so inspiring. Before college he had been in a severely bad car accident that resulted in multiple physical and cognitive disabilites. Even though it took away his talents as an athlete and set him back drastically phsycially and mentally, he was just so positive about life. And part of that positivity was recognizing that every Friday is a celebration. He had made it one more week!
Although he and I have lost touch, and I don't even remember his name, every Friday I think of him. Every Friday his positive spirit still reminds me that no matter what is going on in life at the moment, it is still a celebration to have made it through one more week.
I think he has forever changed my life and my outlook.

This Friday. I am celebrating these things that make me happy:

The LONG weekend ahead! I'm so thankful for the extra day!
The end of the work week. Man, this new job is EXHAUSTING. I've been pulling far too many hours. Hello regular 10 hour and 12 hour days. I'm going to have to figure out how to get a handle on that (particularly because I dont get paid for those extra hours!). I am so happy that after a long day today... I get to come home and sleep!
I'm really happy about my bed. It is so comfy and I think in my current state of mind is on a bit of a pedestal at the moment... like the most perfect place to be ever! ha.
Although it is exhausting, this job offers a lot to celebrate: It counts towards my licensure. I'm getting a pay check. The team I'm working with is AWESOME and so supporitive. I'm getting good exposure by working with all the multiple systems involved - the schools, courts, social workers, parole officers, etc. It is an opportunity opener known as "bootcamp for therapists."
Bright cheerful coffee mugs. Fabulous start to an early morning!
Coffee inside said coffee mug. Mmmmmm.
The bright teal and blue nailpolish I've been rocking all week.
My garden is producing mass amounts of vegetables and herbs.
My slow cooker made some mean ratatouille to come home to at the end of a long day. Many of the ingredients were home grown! YUM.
My hubby. He has been working crazy hours lately too. And yet, when we get home, we are able to put all the grumbles of the day behind us and just enjoy eachother's exhausted company. Thats nicer than I can possibly explain.

What are you celebrating this fine Friday?

PS. Wish me luck. I have to speak in court today as a "professional" for one of my cases. Its a little nerve racking to be considered professional enough to present to a judge.

Whirlwind

2011-08-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

My life is a bit of a whirlwind with busy weekends and busier weeks.

So Im taking a bit of a blog break until September

And if I owe you something in the mail, it is coming as soon as I can get to the post office when they are open!

I hope you all are well and in good spirits. I cant wait to catch up with you in September!

DAM tour of Mudworks:Overthrown

2011-08-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

I feel so lucky that we have regular dates to the Denver Art Museum.

It has two parts. The North Building and the Lincoln Building.

I'm in LOVE with the Lincoln Building architecture.

All those angles. Like a space boat.

Surrounded by equally awesome buildings and public art.

Currently the DAM is holding a museum-wide special exhibit titled MudWorks.

As part of it there is a particular exhibit, called Overthrown, that I just adore.

25 artists were involved, many of whom made work JUST for this show.

Pretty darn nifty stuff too.

Annabeth Rosen created some really odd (but in a good way) sculptures straight from Alice in Wonder Land.

Walter McConnell used 5,500 pounds of moist clay to create these sculptures in plastic enclosures.

I have never seen damp clay as part of a finished product. I thought this was so cool!

This chandelier piece is probably my favorite. I just want to place a small dining table, room for only two, in the center! Jeanne Quinn, the artist, who is from Boulder, is a genius. I love everything about this piece!

Nathan Craven made these fun floors that you can walk on! I love art that is interactive!

Kim Dickey made this really interesting tapestry piece, all made from small ceramic flowers.

Mia Mulvey made an interesting tree that has birds and butterflies strapped to it by cable ties.

It is an interesting concept of biology and the study of dead creatures placed back in its natural habitat.

Inspiration: Moss patterns

2011-08-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

(photos taken near the CoastGuard Beach in Chatham, Cape Cod, Massachusetts in June 2011)

Mail Call Monday

2011-08-22T08:07:00.000-07:00

Seems like just about everyone I know has either just announced their pregnancy or just given birth. It seems like I mailed off hundreds of congratulations letters. I made a whole bunch that said congratulations on your "bundle of joy" (see the bundles below) that I thought were pretty cute.

I love babies and baby things. It is hard to not get a twinge of jealousy though.

Sunday Scavenger Hunt

2011-08-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

linking up with Ashley for the weekly Scavenger Hunt.

1. Geometry

2. Brushstrokes

3. Hanging on by a Thread

(this week was a little overwhelming to say the least)

4. Collage

(part of my vision wall over my computer.)

5. On the Dotted Line

inspiration: at the bike shop

2011-08-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

My husband's uncle builds custom bikes in his spare time and has a pretty cool little shop in Cape Cod. When we stopped by in June, I couldn't help but be inspired. Sometimes inspiration strikes in the most random places. And I'm sure what I was seeing in the bike shop was a lot different then what a biker would see, what my husband would see, or what his uncle would see.

I saw textures.

I saw patterns.

I saw organic compositions.

I saw visual contrast.

I saw interesting dimension.

I saw glitter.

I saw treasure in the cast-off leftovers/trash.

Where have you been lately that you have found inspiration in an unexpected form? Wonder in the everyday? Enjoyment in being right there in that moment?

Give Away Winner

2011-08-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

for the painted banner is

Lee!

Lee let me know what color you would like your "Believe" to be!

Ps. Lee asked me what my new job was. I am working (in the city - so a good commute away) as an in-home multi-systemic therapist working with at-risk adolescents and their families. I may be specializing in problem sexual behaviors (youth offenders) but that is currently undetermined due to reorganization in the company. I could also be at a different relocation... but again, they don't know yet. It would be a similar distance from my house either way, though the other location wouldn't require dealing with as much city traffic. The position is a little intimidating, but so far it has really just been paper work and lots of procedure manual reading.

I am super lucky to have another girl in the same position also starting at the same time (apparently that is rare). Not only are we in the same boat with being the baby therapists that just graduated, but she is also an art therapist like me, which is really cool because the company doesn't specialize in art therapy at all (although we can squeeze in art therapy on our own). She is also a Korean adoptee (all the adoptees in my family so far are Korean) and went to the adoption camp that I work at as an art therapist when she was a kid. All the coincidences made us instant friends. I'm very grateful to have her there with me.

Im also exhausted. I probably wont be visiting blogs as often until my body regulates to the new schedule. But I promise to be around to say hello to all you lovies soon.

Give Away Winner

2011-08-15T17:34:00.001-07:00

for the art goodies to craft ATC (or something else) with is....

April Cole

April, those will be mailed out in a few days!

Thank you.

Mail Call Monday: Mixed tape exchange

2011-08-15T05:36:00.000-07:00

I remember when Micaela posted all about the Goodnight Little Spoon's Mix Share Swap last year and how bummed out I was to miss out on it. So this year I stayed alert and when Mix Share Swap Vol 2 came around... I jumped on the bandwagon quickly!

For each of mine partners (I was assigned 2) I made 2 cds.

The first is the start of many CDs I made my nephew. He just picked up guitar lessons and on the first day asked if he could learn to play Smoke on the Water. Which I think is pretty awesome for an eight year old to even know. So this music list is what I would want to learn to play if I knew how to play guitar! Its a rock and roll, classic rock, and a little of the classic heavy metal education!

The second mix is a bunch of soft lovely songs I adore to listen to, particularly while driving. It will be playing today as I start my commute to my new job. Today is my very first day - and I am a bit nervous about this transition.

My second set:

Give Away Winner

2011-08-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

For the photography postcards

Sarah from The Stiles Files

Please shoot me an email with your address!

phoenixpeacock(at)gmail(dot)com

Congratulations Sarah!

And a big thank you to all my loyal followers.

You and your comments really make life lovely.

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2011-08-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

Linking up with Ashley for another Sunday hunt!
1. Against the Light

(this one is from my archives. It is a SOOC {aside from the watermark} from a camera phone)I love watching the mountains against the light of sunsets. It is always spectacular.
2. Frame within a Frame

I have a soft spot for taking pictures of my hubby while he looks at art.
3. Best Part of My Day

There are so many wonderful parts of my day. When I'm listening to music, when I'm cooking or baking, when I'm making art. etc, etc, etc.But three wonderful things happen every day that I look forward to:1. Snuggles with hubby when we both are home from work2. Playtime with Sasha. We go for 3 miles every morning and another shorter walk in the evening.3. Watering my garden in the morning and in the evening. Here some Borage flowers are prime for the salad.
4. Buttons

5. Ink

Isn't life wonderful?!

2011-08-10T12:47:00.000-07:00

Sasha seems to enjoy the clean sheets and the extra pillows I just added to our bed last night.

While I'd rather not have fur all over the just-cleaned sheets... she is too cute and comfy to be interrupted. And really, fur is a reality of being a dog owner and when it gets bad the washer and dryer are just a trip to the basement and I have extra sheets if need be.

Since I'm busy ignoring Fursace (sounds like Versace) and her thrown of pillows, I'm enjoying a second slice of just-made zucchini bread and a latte.

What are you enjoying to celebrate the middle of the week?

atc technique #2

2011-08-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

As part of my Personal Library Workshop during the month of August I am making ATCs using techniques from the Artist Trading Card Workshop book by Berlin.
She suggests using foam to create ATCs by painting over them and then stamping the top.
This is what happened when I tried:

These are kinda lack-luster for me. So while I may keep just a few for future use, the rest will be used as stamps for creating backgrounds on other ATCs and art journal pages.

Continuing with this week's theme of a gratitude give away for my followers (thank you, thank you, lovies!) I am offering a custom banner to one follower.
Here is an example I made for the lovely Micaela.

Yours could be one word or a whole phrase. It could be a banner for a party - like a birthday party, baby shower, bridal shower, etc. It could be a banner for a holiday. It could just be for decor. Its really up to you and what you want. The winner will choose their word/phrase and color theme.

All you have to do to be in the drawing is let me know in a comment that you are a follower.
(if you are not a follower, you are welcome to become one... but please only do so if you want to read my blog and not for the give away alone). In your comment let me know what your word/phrase and color choice would be if you won!

This is open until Sunday August 14. And the winner will be announced by Tuesday the 16th!

Personal Library Workshop: August, 1st Check-in

2011-08-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

So in July I decided that I really needed to go through my personal library for inspiration and a creativity kick. Each month I am opening up one of my neglected inspiring books and using it as a reference for my own art. I invite you to join me in using the resources you have for your own workshop bootcamp. Just leave a link in the comments on this post!

The month of August I am working out of the Artist Trading Card Workshop by Bernie Berlin.

In the book Berlin introduces the idea of "intuitive watercolor" where you allow watercolor to be freeflowing and without an intended form. You then look at the dried painting to find images within the organic lines and shapes created.

What do you see?

Is it the same as what I see?

Today I am continuing my gratitude give away for passing 100 followers.

One follower will win a stash of creative supplies to make their own ATCs (or whatever else their paint covered hands are itchy to do) that will include various papers, collage images, ribbons, stamps, stickers, and beads.

Since this is a Thank You to my followers, you do need to publicly follow my blog in order to be included in the drawing.
(if you are not already a follower, you are more than welcome to become one. but please, do so because you enjoy the blog and not for the give-away. thanks!)

All you have to do is say you are a follower in a comment on this post.

If you are feeling extra chatting, I would love to know what type of posts of mine you most enjoy reading and/or what you would like to see more of.

The give away closes Saturday the 13th and the winner will be announced on Monday the 15th.

Scavenger Hunt Sunday

2011-08-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

It is Sunday and I'm linking up with Ashley Sisk again for her Scavenger Hunt Sunday.

If you'd like to see the images larger, just double click on them.

1. Seeing Double

it was a toss up between the two lady bugs or the shadow of the sunflower. I just love how the light is captured in the flower petals!

2. Whatever

don't you just love it when you find heart shapes in random things.

3. Sweet

it made me smile to see a sweet little girl run through a fountain in downtown Denver on a hot summer's day.

4. Space

even when I'm in the city, I manage to find so much space.

5. Bright

these are the items I'll be looking for over this week:
1. Against the Light
2. Frame within a Frame
3. Best Part of Your Day
4. Buttons
5. Ink

-------

In other news, I mentioned last week that I broke past 100 followers. It makes me blush in the "aww shucks" kinda way. Because it gave me so much joy, I thought I'd give a little something back.
So I'm offering a small token of my appreciation in form of a give-away.

I'd like to offer one of my followers a packet of photograph postcards by yours truly.

Since this is a thank you to my followers, you do have to be a follower to be included in the drawing.
(while you are certainly welcome to become a follower of my blog, please do so because you enjoy the blog and not just for the give-away. thanks!)

All you have to do is let me know that you are a follower.

If you are feeling extra chatty, please let me know what makes you interested in reading my blog and/or what you would like to see more of.

Give away will be open until Friday, August 12 midnight. The winner will be announced Sunday the 14th!

Thanks! I really do appreciate your input and your support. I have no idea why anyone would want to read my blog but it tickles me pink that you do!

t.m.i.

2011-08-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Today is a laundry day. Since this week has been pretty busy and we went camping over the weekend... its a chore that slid to the bottom of things to do. I did some yesterday, but not all of it. But now it has to be done immediately unless I want to wear crotchless underwear tomorrow. Because that is the only pair of clean panties I have left. None made it in any of the loads yesterday because I separate underwear and socks from regular clothes (that way I can wash them in hot water without worrying about fading my other clothes).
So yea.
Do my chores, or face wearing crotchless undies for more than they are intended for.

Happy Friday and Paint Party Friday: August 5

2011-08-04T23:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

This week I have several things to be happy about.

1. Last weekend Hubby and I went camping to one of our favorite spots. It was a great escape to a quiet spot in the mountains with amazing views of the valley.

2. I just spent last evening making vision boards, (3) laughing, (4&5) drinking wine and eating chocolate with (6) a new group of friends. It was wonderfully fabulous.

7. I've been making new recipes (and they're DELICIOUS)

8. and its Paint Party Friday. Yay!

These are continued from previous journaling.

Dear Aunt, How Does Your Garden Grow?

2011-08-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

The above photo is from the "Love Shack" in Cape Cod, which is a tiny little studio in the back yard of my husband's aunt and uncle which is our home during our stays there. The rest are from our aunt's garden that surround the Love Shack. The aunt and uncle work as successful landscapers on the Cape, and it is always so delightful to find their growing treasures! Back during our visit in June, I enjoyed wondering throughout their gardens and growhouses finding inspiration.

Oh take me back....

2011-08-02T07:00:00.001-07:00

Its been about two months since our trip to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. And yet I'm still thinking about how glorious it was.
Can you see why?

I love my time on the Cape. To take walks on the flats. To bury my toes in the sand. To see the colors that pop against the blue ocean. To taste the salt in the air. ah, divine.

(all photos taken at Nauset Beach in Orleans, Cape Cod, Massachusetts in June 2011. except the buoy, that was taken in Brewster)

What places have you been that have captured you, heart and soul, so that you find your thoughts are never far from planning the next trip back?

Mail Call Monday, Personal Library Workshop checkin, and 100 plus followers!

2011-08-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

So I've been getting some lovely mail from my penpals, family, and friends... but have been SO bad about posting it! Here are some of my recent snail mail goodies:

a lovely artsy TEXAN postcard from one of my favorite Texan twins!

Glittery painting from my 5 year old nephew!

The coolest collage from Janet. I love getting surprise art mail. It makes me smile ear to ear.

Yummy looking Sushi letters from Claire

and an adorable thank you letter from my 8 year old nephew (the one I recently threw a party for... obviously).

In addition to the wonderful mail, I had mentioned a while back that I have been wanting to take workshops but not able to afford them right now. But I realized how many inspiring books I have in my own personal library. So I'm doing my own Personal Library Workshop where each month I take one book off the shelf and use it as creative inspiration.

This month the book was Chanel and her world.

I saw this portrait of a young Chanel and fell in love. Playing with techniques and colors this is what happened:

It doesn't feel done, but it is a interesting start since it is more graffiti then Chanel. But whatever, I'm more graffiti then Chanel. I think there is place for the two worlds to meet.

I also loved some of the fashion sketches.

And again used similar techniques to create a grunge-y version in my art journal.

Neither feel done just yet. But we shall see what comes of them.
I didn't get much more done from the Chanel book as a big chunk of July was dedicated to family time.
So it might have to go back on the list of my Personal Library Workshop.

If you too have inspirational books being neglected, please feel free to join me in the month of August. I will be working from a book about Artist Trade Cards. In the future, I plan to make individual posts about my Personal Library Workshop on the first and third Monday of each month. If you'd like to join, simply leave a link in a comment on one of these posts. Eventually, if this is something several people are interested in doing, I will look into getting a link gadget all set up.

And finally, in conclusion of this long post, I'm excited to say I have 101 followers now! Wow. Thank you. That tickles me pink and warms my soul. In gratitude I will be offering a give away... so stay tuned!

Happy Monday. I'm wishing you a blessed week full of wondrous things to be grateful for!

Scavenger Hunt Sunday: a day at the Denver Art Museum

2011-07-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

1. Walking Empty Streets

2. Repeating Patterns

I couldn't decide by the gradient ceramic wall or inverted pictures of odd ceramic sculptures

The inverted images come from these two sculptures by Annabeth Rosen made for the Overthrown exhibit that is part of the larger MudWorks experience currently happening at the DAM:

3. Floor

A ceramic sculpture by Nathan Craven you could walk on! This piece was made for the Overthrown exhibit of the MudWorks experience at the DAM.

4. Then and Now

An edited image of a painting by Monroe Hodder for the MudWorks exhibit. The actual painting shows less color variations between the yellows. I pulled the hues to make more contrast.

5. Fingertips

from Kiki Smith as part of the permanent exhibit at the DAM.

Want to know more about the artwork?

Come back later this week for a fuller post on my most recent trip to the DAM!

Everyday Beauty: Keystone part 2

2011-07-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

At Keystone there was a lot to be in awe of.

Like the family in the rental unit next door to ours:

They made an appearance every night. Mom would go gather food and the babies would pop their adorable little heads, tails, and paws out as they impatiently waited for her return.

Stairways that lead to wondrous places.

And plenty of pretty, relaxing places to stop and take a break.

Resting spots where it was easy to remember to breathe deep and seek peace.

Amazing pops of color that were enjoyable surprises.

What has you in awe this weekend?

Happy Friday and Paint Party Friday: July 29

2011-07-29T02:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

This Friday I am happy about:

1. Getting to hang out with one of my college roommates, who currently lives in Texas, during her long layover in Denver. A cup of coffee with a friend has never been so delightful! She was one of my bridesmaids and the last time we saw each other is when we were both bridesmaids for our other roommate last summer.

^my 21st birthday - Pirates and Rum party.

I'm the one on the left, and she on the right.

below is during our senior year.

2. Renewing my commitment to pilots and yoga. Feeling sore in a refreshing invigorating way! And my pain levels from the chronic illnesses are remarkably manageable lately which means I don't have to modify nearly as much!

3. Exploring the new exhibits at the Denver Art Museum (which I will share more about and photos and all that at another time!)

To celebrate Paint Party Friday, I am continuing to work on the art journal pages I showed you last week.

What wonderful mess have you been getting into lately?

What is making this Friday a happy one for you?

Every Day Beauty: Keystone, Colorado

2011-07-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

When my family came to visit, we stayed in Keystone, Colorado

Just 2 hours up the road from where I am.

It was lovely.

Something about mountain air is instantly calming.

The sound of the river, rushing with melting snow, was refreshing.

And the sunsets and clouds... over the still-snow-capped mountains...

just stunning.

There isn't a moment that I live in Colorado that I'm not grateful for the beauty that surrounds me.

Where do you live and what makes it beautiful?!

Everyday beauty: Garden of the Gods

2011-07-27T07:00:00.001-07:00

So following yesterday's post about enjoying the beauty around you...

When my family came out to Colorado to visit, before we went up to the mountains we spent a day at the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs.

I thought I'd share some with you.

I didn't take photos of the different rock formations.

Having already been to the garden once, it really isn't my thing.

As my hubby would say "we have rocks in the Rocky Mountains, imagine that"

But it is still important for me to look at things with a fresh perspective, to remember the history, to enjoy the everyday beauty. To remind myself that you don't have to go somewhere exotic to find peace, relaxation, beauty, or who you are.

And the garden really does offer all of that.

so what path have you taken recently?

Where have you explored?