[We] Exist to Relate

Sharing Is Caring

2010-09-29T14:21:00.000+02:00

School Update: I have transferred over into a Master's Program in Professional Counseling at South University in Columbia,SC! I'm still living in Charlotte & commuting to classes on Saturdays.

Work Update: I have now been hired on perm at LexisNexis as a Records Specialist, woohoo!!! :) Benefits, Paid Time Off, and a job that never fails to use my brain!

Home Update: Living in Charlotte,NC with three, shall we say interesting, roommates. Beats living alone these days!

The November Art Everyday Challenge should be coming up again soon (starting November)... I'm hoping so anyway. I can't wait to delve back into some art projects, especially ones that I can incorporate into SecretAgent drops around town. Have you checked out the SAL project yet? www.secretagentL.com

Remember, any day you wake up is a good day, then YOU make it Great! ~ Be well ~

The World Keeps Spinning

2010-05-19T14:16:00.001+02:00

Only absolutely random things are popping up here since I'm now in touch with 98% of my friends on Facebook. Yippeee...

But if you're looking in... I just graduated with my B.S. in Social Psychology. I've been accepted into a Master's program in Criminal Justice that starts in June, and we'll see where it goes from there.

Not much painting going on write now since I'm insanely busy with a full-time job (yep, found one!). I'm learning ASL in my spare time and doing my best to catch up and keep up with friends (now that I'm done with the military). Life is good!

And right now, I'm listening to Peter Parcek's new cd ... http://peterparcekband.com/

Be well & Live it Up! ~ Cora

What Goes Around...

2010-03-10T13:32:00.000+01:00

In between classes, I finally feel like I have the down-time necessary to catch up...

As noted in my last post, I have finally begun the painting process again,

now that I'm settling into my new home.

Some updates:

I have one more semester (two classes) to go to finish my B.S. of Social Psychology with Park University. It's been a long time coming. Now, I have applied for a second Bachelors in Art with a minor in Art Education at UNC Charlotte. I'm still waiting on an acceptance letter (soon, soon!). My GPA is still 4.00 so I'm doing well. :)

I recently bought a rowing machine, a Tunturi R25, so that I can get my work-out going on from home.

I've also recently found a great book called Appetites, which goes into one woman's journey through anorexia and her battle with her psychological and physical appetites. She expresses herself in a way that truly speaks to our condition of wanting, not just of food, but of other things as well.

So, more art should be coming soon... til then, go check out Art21 and meet a new artist!

Labyrinth Painting: Greed, Guilt, Growth

2010-02-27T16:05:00.008+01:00

Finally, the art returns...
I have nearly settled into my new home and here's my first painted piece

Greed, Guilt, Growth
Copyright Cora Drew 2010
12x36 Studio; Made w/ Acrylic, Texture, Reflection

The inspiration for this painting is a labyrinth, which is partially represented with the white lines. It is not a maze but a journey to center and out again. For me, physically walking a labyrinth clears my head, brings my awareness to the present moment, and helps me feel more rooted in my body. There's one about 11 miles from my house at the Presbyterian Hospital (a Chartres style) that I can walk anytime I like.

The labyrinth style represented here is a Native American design called Man in the Maze as well as a Spider Labyrinth. I included the raven because of its totem qualities and the presence it has in my own life. The Raven is the keeper of those secrets and therefore is the keeper of this particular labyrinth painting.

The labyrinth can be seen as a journey inward to find your own inner secrets and mysteries. It's a place you can visit alone or with another. Walking a physical labyrinth brings so much awareness to many things. I had the opportunity to walk the Chartres labyrinth in France, (which checked off a thing I had to do before I died) and it was a wonderful experience!

I like the dark quality of the painting as well as its title bodes. Greed, Guilt, Growth represents those things that come to our awareness when we walk a labyrinth. We think of our needs, wants, desires and how we can go about getting them. In conjunction with these thoughts, we may feel guilt for wanting these things or for having done something to another to obtain them. Even the texture of the painting is symbolic of the rough terrain that we trek on our journey. Growth comes when we first realize our own greed and then choose to change our process, to become more Giving (which is the final but unspoken word that must be discovered).

Overall, this is a power painting. As a reminder and for reflection.

~ Cora Drew

This painting is also listed For Sale on Etsy. Click HERE to see it there.

Be Grateful Year-Round

2010-01-25T01:50:00.002+01:00

This article was posted in my management class...

How Gratefulness Destroys Negativity

Thanksgiving in America is over, but I hope for all of our sakes that gratefulness is not. It is the boundary that keeps negativity at bay.

For example…

- Being grateful for the freedom we have in America gives us perspective to handle frustrations we have with administrations or bureaucracy.

- Gratefulness toward having a job or career we love gives us patience to handle short term seasons of animosity or worry.

- Being thankful for our families allows us to put up with any pettiness that naturally exists in day to day living.

In my experience, when gratefulness is turned up to its highest level in a person’s life, then areas of selfishness, greed, and unnecessary worry and frustration get pushed out of that life.

It makes sense, doesn’t it? When a person spends more time being grateful to our Maker, thankful for the people in their life, or appreciative for their job, then their perspective will produce a different spirit that is attractive and helpful. This cumulative thankfulness spreads like wildfire in a person’s mind and heart and inevitably spills over onto other people around them.

Being grateful is a great way to live.

Where do you start? Well, for me, I start with my journal and begin making lists. Try it.

What are you grateful for? Really. Don’t just list the obvious, but give detail like…

• “I am grateful that I have a job in this period of time that is life-giving.”
• “I am grateful for a wife that not only loves me, but supports me in who I am.”
• “I am grateful for kids that are healthy and fun and who respect us the way they do.”
• “I am grateful for…”

You get the picture. Now start painting your new perspective.

A second list is required to go along with the first. Make a list of the things you are ungrateful for and watch your perspective change after you have made the first. Once you realize the number of things you are grateful for I suspect that your levels of frustration will diminish before your eyes.
Here is why… Most of the things that we are grateful for have longevity. Most of our frustrations are short term, and are usually caused by ourselves.

Once you have finished your grateful list, share your thankfulness with those on the list. Live a life of gratefulness and watch your negativity begin to wash away in the flood of new perspective.

Jeremie Kubicek

Relocation

2010-01-22T20:18:00.001+01:00

Finally managed to move, again... now in Charlotte, NC.

I'll be updating my blog again soon once the packing / homework is finished.

Til then....

30NOV09

2009-11-30T10:15:00.000+01:00

The last piece of art for the month...
Thanks to Leah for hosting such a phenomenal sharing!

This one is entitled "Satyam"
which is also the title of a song by Prasanna
that inspires me to dream big and be the change.
Click here to hear a clip of Satyam

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

The painting is on a 24x36 canvas
(one of the largest pieces yet)
and it's now hanging over the head of my bed.

26NOV09 Update

2009-11-27T03:01:00.005+01:00

Still working on it...
it definitely got a lot of attention
while I was working on it before dinner!
My 5-year-old niece told me today that she wants to be an artist.
(warm fuzzy feeling)

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

26NOV09

2009-11-26T14:18:00.004+01:00

The next phase of the Ulanova Umbrella...
(my mother is trying to steal it from me already!)

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

The style is my own design but I've been told that I resemble Kandinsky
(Russian artist, how appropriate)

I got up at 6am this morning (yes of course it's Thanksgiving) and baked
Isa's Pumpkin Muffins
after properly inspired by my lovely friend Brenda...

Kari, the Peace Sign is for you...and
Brenda, the one with the Heart is just for You!

25NOV09

2009-11-26T05:35:00.004+01:00

Again, I am super busy wrapping up homework (week 6 of 8). I'm also at my Mom's for Thanksgiving, with limited art supplies. I took a break from homework and made a sketch on watercolor paper with pastel pencils (which I LOVE!) Here's the sketch of what's to come...

Ulanova Umbrella
Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

She came of her own accord and she'll evolve...

=D

Nov 24, 09

2009-11-24T16:52:00.004+01:00

This is the first piece of art painted in my new home!
The canvas is 24x30, Acrylics
Enjoy!

she emerged from deep,
scales flickering to make flesh,
when the moon eclipsed

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

She really did just emerge from the canvas,
no planning was involved.

Nov 22, 09

2009-11-23T18:47:00.000+01:00

No art today as I MUST finish research papers...
but...some Haiku for you!

words travel bravely
across my mind to paper
and swim in your thoughts

Be well,
CoRa

Nov 20, 09

2009-11-20T23:49:00.004+01:00

my independence
shines with the colors of night
on the avenue

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

I took this on Independence Ave, right down from the White House.
Click on the picture for a larger view to see the actual sign.
:) Enjoy :)

Nov 19, 09

2009-11-19T05:04:00.000+01:00

she speaks with the leaves,
colors the seasons with song;
rejoice in the sound

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

Since I'm traveling, sharing current art is difficult.
This is a mask that I created recently in Belgium
-with-
newspaper, brown bag, hemp string, glue, paint, gloss, and love. ;)

Enjoy & Be Well
*Back to the Road*

Nov 18, 09

2009-11-18T16:14:00.004+01:00

she sways with the wind
the tide takes her out and in
with the moon, she sings

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

I am sharing this painting today because I need to pack up my car and start my road trip
South from Mass. to South Carolina. I did this painting about 6 years ago on a tripod tabletop.
I removed the legs of the table and put a bracket on the back so it could hang on the wall. The black lines are actually glue! Enjoy... I have company for the trip & will be doodling on while on the road.

Nov 17, 09

2009-11-17T17:10:00.000+01:00

Today, a photo...

Nov 16, 09

2009-11-16T08:01:00.003+01:00

Today, I'm sharing a sketch of a puffin...
I didn't have enough time to paint it yet because I have a ton of homework to do.

(it's not really pink, it was just the best color to use
on the computer to help you see the light pencil lines)

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

I lived in Iceland for 15 months and loved seeing these little birds!
I think it is uber sad that they have them on dinner menus. :(
They are tiny, fat little birds that love diving for fish!
I often wonder if they are related to penguins...

Here's a NG video of puffins...

Nov 15, 09

2009-11-15T18:21:00.003+01:00

I watched "Up" last night
and one of the rocks looked like a turtle.
So I was inspired to draw one...
(sorry, cam phone pic)

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

Nov 14, 09

2009-11-14T18:02:00.003+01:00

Today is my 28th Birthday,
aka "Bird-Day"

I'm sharing a collage that I made with my own words.
It wasn't 'made' today but it has never really been shared
and I have a long drive to take to the road in the rain

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

taking to the road
rainswept highway behind me
I travel forward

Be well, Cora

Nov 13, 09

2009-11-14T02:23:00.006+01:00

I took a trip to the Boston Museum of Science today...for my Birthday.
I turn 28 tomorrow.

I decided to share my little sketches as today's art.
If you click on the picture, it'll open up much larger...
Enjoy. :D

At the live animal show, I saw an American Kestrel, a jumping chicken, and a red-tailed hawk.
I also saw an ancient, nearly complete Triceratops fossil named "Cliff"
and three small, very hyper vigilant Cottontop Tamarin Monkeys.

Here are some pics (from my cell phone)...
My camera battery doesn't get charged til tomorrow
when I drive back to CT.

Nov 13, 09

Nov 12, 09

2009-11-12T18:48:00.002+01:00

I struggled today
to fly on a windy sea
so instead, I stood

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

Though this painting is obviously a personal "learning" rendition
(I'm still new to watercolors),

I was inspired by Kirk at
http://www.kiroastro.com/birds/birdindex.html

It is a phenomenal feeling to have the opportunity to look through his lens!

looking through your lens
with the wonders of the world,
the feeling of flight
~ Cora Drew

over the top

2009-11-12T06:59:00.003+01:00

Thanks for the compliment Meredith
Mer thinks that my blog is...

Thank you Mer... I'd give the award right back to you! But I did list three below to pass on the love!

To accept my award, I should answer the following questions with ONE word
and pass the award on...

1. Where is your cellphone? resting
2. Your hair? red
3. Your mother? sleeping
4. Your father? Charleston
5. Your favorite food? Sushi
6. Your dream last night? strange
7. Your dream/goal? Love
8. Your favorite drink? Boba
9. What room are you in? main
10. Your hobby? blogging
11. Your fear? love
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? around
13. Where were you last night? couch
14. Something that you aren´t? lost
15. Muffins? pumpkin
16. Wishlist item? success
17. Where did you grow up? Carolina
18. Last thing you did? stretched
19. What are you wearing? puma
20. Your TV? crime
21. Your pets? rats
22. Friends? adored
23. Your life? interesting
24. Your mood? tired
25. Missing someone? always
26. Vehicle? subaru
27. Something you´re not wearing? bra
28. Your favorite store? etsy
29. Your favorite color? rainbow
30. When was the last time you laughed? now
31. Last time you cried? weekend
32. Your best friend? strong
33. One place you go to over and over? blog
34. Facebook? yup
35. Favorite place to eat? Fuji's

The second part is that I am to pass this on to 3 other bloggers...

I think that the three artists listed here also deserve the award...

Carmen... who inspired me to be true to myself

Karen... who's poppies lifted my spirits

& redorgrayart... who's simplicity quiets my mind

Exactly!

2009-11-11T23:44:00.002+01:00

This video was shared on an artist's website today,
and it is EXACTLY what I needed!

Inspiration!

exactly from mccabe russell on Vimeo.

Nov 11, 09

2009-11-11T16:50:00.000+01:00

she sailed 'cross the sea
and anchored on foreign shores
to feel more alive

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

I apologize for the quality but I'm having to use my cell phone to upload the images.
My camera battery died with the charger no where in sight...

Nov 10, 09

2009-11-10T18:05:00.001+01:00

I stick one leg out
not sure of where I'm going
I found my balance

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

Nov 9, 09

2009-11-09T23:55:00.000+01:00

I'm moving inward
nothing left to see but me
finding peace within

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

Nov 8, 09

2009-11-08T21:17:00.000+01:00

in pieces today...

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

Nov 7, 09

2009-11-07T23:00:00.000+01:00

Meet Sprout...Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

This piece is a few years old but I decided to share it here today,
well...because I had a rough day and art didn't happen.
Maybe tomorrow.

Nov 6, 09

2009-11-07T01:23:00.003+01:00

Today... I feel uncertain.
I am lost in a world
of my own creation,
feeling as if I'm spinning,
out of control.

And so, I call on the whirling dervish
to spin in my muck & show me that it's all ok...

a whale of an idea

2009-11-06T04:39:00.003+01:00

I felt like dabbling with my watercolors...
and ended up taking a journey
with this guy...

Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

Nov 5, 09+

2009-11-05T19:38:00.005+01:00

the Lady of the Day...
Pregnant with Opportunity

Copyright 2009 Cora Drew

I have found that these only come after exhausting my desire to scribble...
so I get the scribbling and doodling out of my system and then she shows up.
Like Haiku, inspired and from an unforced place.
I love it!

SXIP Shirley

2009-11-05T18:09:00.000+01:00

THIS man GETS it!

Neoteny

2009-11-05T15:49:00.002+01:00

Stuart Brown...

"A pioneer in research on play, Dr. Stuart Brown says humor, games, roughhousing, flirtation and fantasy are more than just fun. Plenty of play in childhood makes for happy, smart adults -- and keeping it up can make us smarter at any age."

Want to Listen to his Talk
about why play is important?

CLICK HERE
to watch & listen!

Nov 5, 09

2009-11-05T11:51:00.000+01:00

Inspired by a fellow artist on this journey, I decided to throw all of my calculating mind to the wind and make a mini book of doodles. I folded, cut, and doodled while listening to Ted Talks (a couple of which I posted earlier)...

The only thought that I had in mind was to let all thinking go and just doodle whatever came... here goes, my art for today.

front and back

each page before folding (top right is the first page

and inside...

Art Talk

2009-11-05T04:14:00.002+01:00

Need some inspiration?

...

Meet Vik Muniz...

"Vik Muniz makes art from pretty much anything, be it shredded paper, wire, clouds or diamonds. Here he describes the thinking behind his work and takes us on a tour of his incredible images."

CLICK HERE
to listen to a 15 minute talk
by the artist himself.

Nov 4, 09 +

2009-11-04T23:03:00.003+01:00

As I sat down to start my homework,
I just couldn't help myself...

Nov 4, 09

2009-11-04T17:13:00.008+01:00

While recovering, I am sticking to very simple line drawings with my friend's son's art supplies (drawing pad and markers). I have been drawing these for years. It was in response to someone saying, "I can only draw stick figures." These ladies are my own rendition of stick figures. Since my friend Al mentioned last night that he wants to see a mermaid, I decided to manifest one this morning.

ART Nov 3, 09

2009-11-03T19:15:00.007+01:00

Since I was in the hospital
with bronchitis bordering on pneumonia,
art didn't happen on the 1-2 Nov.
But it has begun now... :D

Nov 3, 2009
Copyright 2009, Cora Drew

[We] Exist To Relate ~ Products

2009-10-30T17:03:00.003+01:00

Art, Every Day

2009-10-30T05:37:00.003+01:00

Are You Ready...?

The art begins Nov.1st
I'm excited to see where it goes!

Business Card

2009-10-30T05:08:00.004+01:00

Yay, my business card is complete
...

the back is a secret... :D

A Repost of a Reminder

2009-10-29T09:23:00.001+01:00

Click Here and Watch/Listen

Inspiration

2009-10-29T08:45:00.000+01:00

Meet my Inspiration,
Oliver Sacks

A neurologist and anthropoligist,
he has written books on many aspects
of neurology and he is a great storyteller.

My favorite book of his
is called "Seeing Voices"

Click here to watch and listen as
he talks about hallucinations

Please Vote

2009-10-29T06:06:00.001+01:00

Please Repost & place One Vote for Textaurant to present: http://bit.ly/57WLi They need 3rd Place!

Seeking...

2009-10-29T03:37:00.002+01:00

I am actively seeking the right Contract Lawyer
for a Children's Charity Adventure!

If you know someone,
please pass this on.

Thank You!

Rings True

2009-10-26T21:28:00.000+01:00

Please Meet...
Julian Treasure

"...he asks us to pay attention to the sounds that surround us. How do they make us feel: productive, stressed, energized, acquisitive?"

The clip is just short of 5 minutes.
Take the time to hear yourself think!
Click Here

La La Land

2009-10-22T02:54:00.004+02:00

Jill Bolte

... a scientist with a first hand experience of trauma...

"She had a massive stroke, and watched as her brain functions -- motion, speech, self-awareness -- shut down one by one. An astonishing story."

Click Here to
Watch and Listen to her talk about her
Stroke of Insight

"One Buttock Playing"

2009-10-21T21:42:00.005+02:00

Meet Benjamin Zander...

"Benjamin Zander has two infectious passions: classical music, and helping us all realize our untapped love for it -- and by extension, our untapped love for all new possibilities, new experiences, new connections."

This man has absolutely inspired me!!!

Click Here...
Watch & Listen to him on TED,
I promise it's amusing!

Everyday

2009-10-16T02:39:00.005+02:00

I am an artist.
But how can I be an artist, every day?
When do I find the energy to breathe art into existence?
How do I shift my perspective to one of creativity, joy, and connectedness?
When will I embrace who I am and live for me?
I truly believe that we exist to relate.
My relationships define me,
and you, I beLIeVE.

***
Oct.20th Update
I asked and received...!

Strategies for Optimal Self Care

2009-10-14T03:29:00.002+02:00

This flyer was a hand-out written by one of my friend's professors.
I decided to share it here...

Strategies for Optimal Self Care

Start off your day with breakfast.
Occasionally change your routine by meeting a friend or coworker for breakfast - allow time to relax and enjoy it.
Avoid drinking more than 3 cups of coffee a day.
Find some time during the day to mediate or listen to a relaxation tape.
Organize your work -- set your priorities.
Don't try to be perfect. Don't feel like you have to do everything.
Don't try to do 2 more 3 or more things at a time.
Reduce the noise level in your environment, if possible.
Eat at least 2 fruits and 3 servings of vegetables daily.
Take at least 20 minutes to eat a meal.
Don't take your job home with you or on breaks.
Always take a lunch break (preferably not at your desk).
Optimize your health with good nutrition, sleep and rest.
Get 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Develop with friends/coworkers your own brand of happy hour, parties, birthday celebrations and other events that act as a break in the usual routine.
Look at unavoidable stress as an avenue for growth and change.
Avoid people who are "stress carriers" or "negaholics."
Adopt a pet.
Don't watch the 11 p.m. news.
Give yourself praise strokes.
Develop a wide variety of resources for gratification in your life, whether it's family, friends, hobbies, interests, special weekends or vacations. Treat yourself to "new and good things."
Be assertive. Learn to express your needs and differences, to make requests, and to say "no" constructively.
Don't overlook the emotional resources available to you that are close at hand - coworkers, spouse, friends and family.
Don't be afraid to ask questions or to ask for help.
Allow 15 minutes of extra time to get to appointments.
Check your breathing throughout the day. Take lots of deep breaths when you feel stressed.
Humor is a great coping strategy. Try to find something funny in the situation.
Find ways to protect yourself...take a "mental health day."
Take time to cook yourself a meal at home.
Practice being patient: create patience practice periods, like when waiting in line.
Understand that we do not all see or do things in the same way.
Practice mindfulness - learn to live in the moment -- take a mindful walk, eat mindfully, observe nature.
Become a less aggressive driver.
Create helping rituals - they make you feel good: Open a door for someone, pick up litter, etc.
When stressed ask yourself "Is it really important?", "Will this really matter a week/month/year from now?"
Resist the urge to judge or criticize.
Become a better listener.
Breathe before speaking; then you won't interrupt or finish other sentences.
Be flexible with change - things don't always go as we planned.
Say a short prayer or sit for a moment of silence before meals.
Practice an affirmation each day (I am relaxed, one day at a time, I'm doing the best I can, I am healthy and strong, etc.)

From a class handout, author & date unknown

Subaru!

2009-10-08T05:12:00.005+02:00

Oh, happy day!
Buh-bye Tracker...
I have a new car

I love the Subaru Forester!
AWD, safe, affordable, super comfy,
& plenty of space for passengers.

Long Week

2009-10-02T04:22:00.005+02:00

Time is surely flying by. Thankfully, things seem to be moving in the right direction.
Besides enjoying my new found Veteran freedom, I have managed to get my car tags, title, and text books.
Now I'm just waiting on my car to show up at port so that I can go trade it in.

Signed up for LinkedIn, looking for jobs in the Columbia, SC area now...
http://www.linkedin.com/in/coradrew

Fall is in the air here and being near the ocean makes for a lovely breeze in the morning!
Christi flies up on Nov. 17th to drive back South with me.

Managed to catch up with a few great friends and some prior coworkers.

Also found two books today at the local Borders:

The Know-It-All

and

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle

I'm looking forward to digging into these while I have spare time.
Classes start oh-so-soon!

Sign Language Research

2009-09-22T00:53:00.003+02:00

Why hasn't Rosetta Stone jumped on-board yet?!

Signing Online: http://www.signingonline.com/about/index.html
Sign Writing: http://www.signwriting.org/
HandSpeak: http://www.handspeak.com/
ASL University: http://www.lifeprint.com/
Rocket Language: http://www.rocketlanguages.com/sign-language/premium/?hop=larmrmk

Art Finds

2009-09-21T18:21:00.009+02:00

While I was at the Art in the Heart Festival (Augusta, Ga), I picked up cards from the artists that I found interestingly involved. Here is the short list:

The Pottery Den ... is where I found my lovely coffee cup. Unfortunately, they don't sell online but only at art shows. :( I don't even have an e-mail address, just an address & phone number in Virginia. Old School! LOVE the cup though!

Painted Voice ... When I saw Laurel's paintings, I felt like I could walk into them! www.paintedvoice.com & www.laurelgentemanart.com

reCYCLE Jewelry ... I love seeing everyday items recycled & repurposed. www.recyclejewelrynow.com

Lonnie Rich - Artist on East Bay ... This artist really blew me away with simple wood and stone creations. I had to drag myself away from this guy's stand! Seeing the flowing nature of wood and stone together, very nice! I'll be seeking him out again! www.artistoneastbay.com

Caroline Sandlin Jewelry... I bought a very nice hand-hammered silver ring with a spinner on it... She's on Etsy, Yay! She has some very nice pieces incorporating minerals as well. carolinesandlin.etsy.com

Gimme Beads - Mickey & Madeline Art Glass LLC ... This couple had some very impressive blown glass pendants. They seriously looked like underwater coral, alive!
They are on Etsy but while traveling, their inventory is not available online. If you look at their Sold Items, you can get a great idea of their skill. gimmebeads.etsy.com

Stan Bruns Illustrations ... I watched this gentleman working on a color-pencil drawing. I loved his rendition of a pelican (which drew me in). He also had some nice sets of drawings with dragons and runes... very nice! stanbruns.etsy.com

Two = Peace

2009-09-20T22:22:00.004+02:00

My how the week has flown by...!
I'm definitely feeling muscles that I haven't felt in years.

I didn't manage to get any pics from the birthday parties but both Landen (6) & Jonathon (5) were pretty happy to have presents & someone to wrestle around with.

Saturday was spent in Augusta on the Savannah River and at the Arts in the Heart festival...
I found a hand-hammered ring & a hand-sculpted coffee cup to add to my functioning art collection.

It was a beautiful day on the river!
We really did think it would rain.

We were out for about an hour and a half, and rode clear down to where the rapids begin.

It was hard getting a good view of these little guys but there were four sliders out on the logs

We also had a duck say hi...

I love the way the cypress trees look in the water!

Rich people living on this part of the river...

On Sunday, I finally met Beth... Yay!
As you can see, she's quite home sick
(but we had a lovely time)

AND I met her Girls... a d o r a b l e ...

Another wonderful week down...
Thank You Beth, for wrapping it up so beautifully!

My Step-Sis Marianne also came to visit. The food at the Art in the Heart Festival was very tasty.
Loempia, Banana Fritters, Satay, Baklava Ice cream...
and we went out for a movie. FYI: Don't go see Sorority Row (eeeek)!

This week, I'll be getting my personalized workout plan from the gym for my trip,
and flying to to New England til at least November. Woohoo!

Eat Right!

2009-09-19T06:52:00.001+02:00

http://health.discovery.com/national-body-challenge/recipe-search.html

Busy Bee

2009-09-16T02:46:00.002+02:00

It's been one heck of a week back in the states! It's hard to believe how much I've managed to tackle in seven days time...and I'm far from being finished!

In a nut shell, I've started my GI Bill processing, enrolled for 3 classes this term with Park, and started attending the local Gold's Gym which is only 5 minutes away...

I was finally able to visit my nieces, one of them after 4 years and the other for the first time.

The military has definitely made me realize how important family is!
Kerr (on the left) managed to knock an entire bowl of oatmeal on the kitchen floor
and Kenley grabbed and spilled a glass of tea within minutes.
Oh the joy of munchkins! I didn't sleep well...

I was so happy to see that Kerrigan took to the learning cards that I gave her!
Mom reads them to her every time she visits...

I love my 'red-neck' brother (sorta, haha)
He did cook dinner for us...

This weekend I have two birthday parties, a river cruise (with my Granny, Aunt, & Mum), an Art in the Heart (of Augusta, GA) Festival, and Sunday brunch with a lovely lady...

Next week, I fly to Boston to visit the North for a month or so...
Vacation, Car Registration, Visiting Loved Ones
and driving back to SC in my car (17 hours).

Here's hoping my other textbooks show before I fly North,
classes start Oct.19th...

Future Plans

2009-09-11T15:17:00.004+02:00

Well, it appears that my college plans are shifting in an exciting and unexpected direction...

I originally had no intentions of moving back to South Carolina. In fact, I call Boston "home" and love New England. However, opportunities have beckoned me back to the South, ones that I cannot turn down!

I have seven more classes to complete my BS in Social Psychology, three of which I am taking in the Fall II term online. That leaves me with two more in my core and two lower-level general electives. If all goes well, I'll be able to take two classes at a local college and transfer the credits back.

I'm also extremely interested in pursuing an Associate in Occupational Technology. After speaking with the department head yesterday, I am excited to note that I can tailor the program to my desires as long as I meet their specifications for # of credit hours. What it boils down to is that all of my general electives will transfer (except Speech, argh!) and I can concentrate on both Early Childhood Development -and- Basic Multimedia.

With this concentration, I feel that I will have the necessary knowledge to work towards constructing the assistive application for learning disabled children. This will also enhance my chances of being accepted into a Graduate program for Education Technology. To top it off, this entire program just went entirely web-based.

So, with no kinks in the system, I will have my BS complete by Summer of next year and will also be on my way towards my custom-fit Associate. Sounds backwards, I know, but they always say that hindsight is 20/20 and I know now what I need to succeed. :D

"The Birds" Finished!

2009-09-10T13:55:00.003+02:00

The tattoo is finished,
21.5 hours...
Thanks Kari!

Masked Personas

2009-09-04T12:10:00.002+02:00

A while back, I was reflecting on the nature of masks and how we use them throughout our lives. We dress up everyday, living multiple personas, trying to fit in, to be liked, to be loved. I also believe that we mirror others, reflecting on self in the process.

I made this mask from a blank one that I found at an arts/crafts store. The mask appears to be cracking up, and there's a shard of clear glass covering the right eye. To me, this represents the dichotomy of being self and other, and how we struggle with these images and reflections.

My amazing friend Ruth agreed to shoot some pictures of me in the mask...
and I feel that she captured the intent, perfectly!

Enjoy. :D

* * *

* * *

***

***

A Baby-Bundled Weekend

2009-08-31T18:50:00.003+02:00

This weekend was fairly low-key after an overnight hospital stay on Friday...

Who says that aliens don't exist!?!

So I missed the Royse Feesten in Gruitrode, BE

I did manage to meet and take a few photos of Coggs new family addition, Jacob!

Tattoo Haiku

2009-08-29T21:04:00.011+02:00

Over dinner (of sole in pepper sauce w/ creamy mashed potatoes),

I pondered the existence of a haiku for my bird tattoo...

a rush of flapping,
do you see her soul take flight
with cattails dancing?

Otherwise, my dinner was infused with a lovely view of small ponds, various fowl and flowers...
I'm staying at the Watermolen hotel in Bocholt (Reppel)... here are a few pictures of my evening stroll.

TAT Update

2009-08-23T22:36:00.002+02:00

4 more hours puts 'the birds' at 20.5 hours...
I am loving it! Thank you Kari!!!
Some leaves and little touch ups and it'll be finished.

Here are two pics from today's session:

Update of "the Birds"

2009-08-11T22:31:00.006+02:00

Here are the birds...
the tree, leaves, and background are next...
KARI ROCKS!

Getting Into My Pants

2009-08-09T21:39:00.004+02:00

My awesome friend Kari made me a beautiful pair of wrap pants that I can't wait to wear!
I'm waiting til my tattoo is somewhat healed though
since I don't want fresh ink in my fresh pants...HA!

Here they are...

She is such an amazing artist!
Thank you Kari!!!

Chock-A-Block

2009-08-09T00:12:00.006+02:00

My Lovely Friend Brenda
invited H~ and me over to the car show to hear a friend in a band...
The pics are here...

Chock A Block

Part_Time_Vegetarian

2009-08-01T16:50:00.002+02:00

The more conscious I become of what I am eating,
the more I lean towards less meat and more hearty, vegetable healthy meals...
I agree with Jana: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/the-part-time-vegetarian.html

It just gets better and better...

Here are two books (that I want) that my friends Kari & Brenda use religiously:

Veganomicon & Vegan With A Vengeance

oh, and... Vegan Cupcakes...

~~~MMM~~~

I C U

2009-07-31T00:24:00.007+02:00

Golan Levin makes art that looks back at you...!

http://on.ted.com/24

Golan Levin, an artist and engineer, uses modern tools -- robotics, new software, cognitive research -- to make artworks that surprise and delight. Watch as sounds become shapes, bodies create paintings, and a curious eye looks back at the curious viewer.

http://www.flong.com/

the Birds

2009-07-30T23:33:00.004+02:00

My ever-so-awesome & evolving tattoo
by Kari

I'm at a loss for words,
I'm just uber happy, hurtin!

Disclaimer: Yes, it hurts...So don't go planning an entire back piece at once unless you have some serious gonads!

A Quote

2009-07-29T22:55:00.001+02:00

"my friendship
is all
I have
to give"

~ Mozart and the Whale

Emotional Intelligence

2009-07-29T18:43:00.003+02:00

How can we boost our emotional intelligence? It's all in how we relate...obviously.

4 aspects of Emotional Intelligence:

Self-Awareness
Self-Management
Social Awareness
Relationship Management

To develop emotional intelligence, read on: http://eqi.org/eitoc.htm

Graded Relief

2009-07-28T20:01:00.002+02:00

So I now know my final grades for the three classes that have tormented me for the last 8 weeks...

92, 97, 97

Ssswwweeettt Relief!

New pics of my tat soon to come... Yay!

human

2009-07-24T22:11:00.004+02:00

Pondering the last days of my enlistment,
and listening to the Killers,
and these tunes
are so
...

"...and so long to devotion,
you taught me everything I know
wave goodbye,
wish me well,
...
you've gotta let me go..."

~ the Killers

now back to
the last
paper

the world we live in

2009-07-24T21:43:00.002+02:00

As above, ... so below.

I really do believe that we exist to relate,
and to affirm this,
I want to share some info
about the "helping relationship"
as it's part of this week's homework...

Carl Rogers, client-centered psychologist, asks

"how can I provide a relationship which this person may use for his own personal growth?"

Be Genuine: be aware of your own feelings (congruence)
Be Accepting: warm, unconditional regard for the person and their being (unconditional positive regard)
Be Empathetic: have a continuing desire to understand (empathy)
Active Listening: relaying understanding of feelings by responding with the same intensity of expression (affective expression)

Can you give another the freedom to be? just as he/she is? Can you free him/her of the threat of external evaluation (non-judgment)?

One's locus of evaluation (center of responsibility) lies within him/herself.

"The individual will reorganize himself at both the conscious and deeper levels of his personality in such a manner as to cope with life more constructively, more intelligently, and in a more socialized as well as a more satisfying way." On Becoming a Person by Carl Rogers

When we can accept another as a process of becoming (not a static object), then we are doing what we can to confirm or make real his/her potentialities.

Allow them to feel, whatever that feeling may be...without evaluation, without judgment. This increases trust and the freedom to explore, to truly be themselves.

"When I try to discover why I have been unable to accept him/her in every respect, I usually discover that it is because I have been frightened or threatened in myself by some aspect of his/her feelings. I fI am to be more helpful, then I must myself grow and accept myself in these respects."

Crow Pose

2009-07-15T18:50:00.004+02:00

I want to be able to do this... guess it's time to start that yoga back up

Contemplative Psychology

2009-07-12T18:20:00.007+02:00

In my musings (readings) for the week...
Up until this point, I have been learning about numerous types of psychotherapies....
And it's not all hokie, as one would think.
This week, I am amused with the concepts of contemplation.

Here are seven practices of contemplation...

Ethics - engaging in behavior that does not inflict harm, deconditioning destructive mental factors... a struggle to reverse old habits becomes "Whatever you do, you do to yourself"
Emotional Transformation - reducing problematic emotions, cultivating positive ones, and developing equanimity
Redirecting Motivation - motivations becoming less compulsive and addictive, less scattered and more focused, desired things become more subtle and internal
Training Attention - "the faculty of voluntarily bringing back a wandering attention over and over again is the very root of judgment, character, and will", fostering calm and concentration, cultivating desired emotions and motives
Refining Awareness - making external and internal perceptions more sensitive, accurate, and more appreciative of the freshness and novelty of each moment
Wisdom - this is cultivated through a deeper understanding of existential issues through the process of introspection and reflection
Altruism and Service - make your guiding principle to do your best for others, generosity helps transform the mind, "what we experience ourselves reflects what we want others to experience"

"the best way to become a better helper is to become a better person.
But one necessary aspect of becoming a better person is via helping other people."
~ Abraham Maslow

So Worth Blogging!

2009-07-11T21:33:00.003+02:00

Thanks H~ <3 Now back to my regularly scheduled programming (writing research papers)

I'm So Tempted!

2009-07-06T22:13:00.003+02:00

This is the house that I want...

CLICK HERE

Yes, I would so have a huge yard sale
and not be the least bit upset!

Call your Mother

2009-07-03T21:16:00.002+02:00

Zucchini Muffins & More

2009-06-24T21:06:00.002+02:00

I have been so bogged down with homework in three classes...
Enough so to even keep me from cooking.
So yesterday I kicked serious butt w/ my homework
and today, I tackled baking Zucchini Muffins

and OHMY they are delightful!

Inspired by three zucchini (and a few carrots)
in my fridge...I found this recipe:

http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/zucchini_muffins/

Sub'ed a half a cup of carrots since the zucchini wasn't quite 3 cups,
used whole wheat flour, added in a cup of golden raisins,
and voila! Go try it, they are aammaazziinngg!

clothesline

2009-06-12T01:31:00.002+02:00

(a poem by Marilyn Maciel)

i
you
us
them
those people
wouldn't it be lovely
if one could
live
in a constant state
of we?
some of the most
commonplace
words
can be some of the biggest
dividers
they
what if there was
no they?
what if there
was only
us?
if words can be seen
as they floated out
of our mouths
would we feel no
shame
as they passed beyond
our lips?
if we were to string
our words
on a communal clothesline
would we feel proud
as our thoughts
flapped in the
breeze?

inferiority

2009-06-10T13:19:00.005+02:00

v l
e a
r c
t i
i t
c r
a e
l v

vs.

h o r i z o n t a l
l a t n o z i r o h

t
h
i
...t h i n k i n g
k
i
n
g

...

What would a
yellow umbrella say
to you today?

Broccoli & Red Bell Pepper

2009-06-06T18:36:00.003+02:00

Oh what to do with a head of broccoli & a red bell pepper?

I do love a challenge with a few ingredients!

I ended up finding THIS RECIPE and tweaked it a bit...
Wish I had taken a picture of the final product but honestly
it smelled and looked amazing and I was too hungry to think...

I tweaked the recipe by adding in the red bell pepper (steamed),
didn't add nuts (not my thing), and served over basmati rice.
MMM MMM Good!

Thanks "Dining Alone"

Vegan Enchiladas

2009-06-05T21:21:00.005+02:00

My Lovely friend Brenda shared with me a recipe for vegan enchiladas...
her only stipulation, it must be blogged
So here goes...

It all started with a sweet potato, oh what on earth to do that hasn't been done...

So here are my gathered ingredients:

1 sweet potato
1 bell pepper
1/2 red onion
1 large shallot
1 large garlic clove
1 can of hominy (corn), rinsed
1 can of black beans, rinsed
1 can of mild enchilada sauce (I'd change the sauce next time, as I'm not fond of the brand or the overall flavor)

I chopped up the sweet potato into very small pieces and sauteed them first to give them a head start (to soften up)

While they were cooking up, I chopped up the rest of the veggies to go in the pan with...
and in they went.

Once they cooked down a bit (I added in seasonings including quite a bit of cumin, some chili pepper, cinnamon, a bit of salt, and a tad of dried cilantro (didn't have any of the fresh stuff)

Hominy and black beans rinsed, I folded them in to not beat up the beans too much and let it heat through.

Gave it a taste, poured in a small bit of the enchilada sauce and then into the tortillas it went to be put in the oven.

Oh yeah, those were wheat tortillas...

and the rest of the sauce was poured on top...

no cheese for these, they are vegan
just like Brenda likes em. :)

Going into the oven...

Coming out the oven...

the smell when I opened the oven was absolutely fantastic!

and now they are (as a kid would say)...in my belly!

Very very tasty!
I'll definitely be making these again!

And there are leftovers from the mix
(I didn't have enough tortillas)
So, leftovers for lunch tomorrow
(I only ate two for dinner)
and more for Brenda... :)

Thanks Brenda!

One Week of Painting

2009-06-05T14:26:00.003+02:00

The kids' room at work is finally finished!
(Click on the Picture to see them all)

Dr.Seuss

Synaptic Solipsism (Self)

2009-06-04T06:47:00.003+02:00

If we only exist in our own heads,
then we must be running on synaptic course, right?I'm listening to Mum and pondering my existence (over a cup of java).

Click HERE for more Pondering

Born Stupid

2009-06-01T16:25:00.006+02:00

Enlightening talk...about our brain and how it develops and wires/rewires itself. This Doc was also on the team that invented the cochlear implant...I'm stoked to stumble over this guy's work at ted.com and also at his blog (link below)!

Neuroscientist Michael Merzenich looks at one of the secrets of the brain's incredible power: its ability to actively re-wire itself. He's researching ways to harness the brain's plasticity to enhance our skills and recover lost function.

"Merzenich is perhaps the most recognizable figure in brain plasticity and how one develops competence through experience and learning." ~ Dominique M. Durand

Click Here for Video Talk

A link to Michael Merzenich's blog

Symbiosis

2009-05-31T22:35:00.004+02:00

Music embodied in a dance of symbiosis...oddly entertaining to watch these two in this 'symbiotic' relationship on stage!

Two Pilobolus dancers perform "Symbiosis." Does it trace the birth of a relationship? Or the co-evolution of symbiotic species? Music: "God Music," George Crumb; "Fratres," Arvo Part; "Morango…Almost a Tango," Thomas Oboe Lee.

Click Here for Video Talk

and also a talk on 60 Minutes

Method to Madness

2009-05-31T21:26:00.005+02:00

After having listened to the last talk posted about learning to 'really listen,' I stumbled over a piece by Eric Lewis at Ted.com. I have to say, setting all conceptions about what a piano 'should' sound like aside, I can really tell that this man really "feels" the music as he makes it. Dissonance and all, there is a story here, about a man that is truly expressing himself without regard for how others judge his performance. It's quite cathartic to listen to if you allow yourself to "FEEL" it as you go... After listening, I feel like I honestly had a full-blown interaction with him. Amazing, the difference. So REAL...!

Click Here for Video Talk

Click Here for a web article written about him

What to do...?

2009-05-30T21:44:00.004+02:00

I challenged myself today. Only a small one really. But still,

a butternut squash
a honey crisp apple
a sweet potato
time & love

It has ended well
I believe.

A pinch of salt,
cinnamon, cumin
garlic & ginger
red onion
yellow pepper
a tad of chili pepper
& some veggie stock

Whoa, how smooth
it becomes
when blended,
mmm

a beautiful color
like a summer sun
the horizon's embrace
stunning

Can't wait to share it
with my love
when he gets here...
soon

To relate, through music

2009-05-30T18:20:00.002+02:00

...don't hold on so tight. Her demonstration of relating to the drum is much like how we relate with others. Open up, don't hold on so tight, learn to listen...

In this soaring demonstration, deaf percussionist Evelyn Glennie illustrates how listening to music involves much more than simply letting sound waves hit your eardrums.

Scottish percussionist and composer Evelyn Glennie lost nearly all of her hearing by age 12. Rather than isolating her, it has given her a unique connection to her music.

Click Here for Video Talk

Are You Irrational?!

2009-05-30T14:57:00.002+02:00

Are we in control of our decisions? Behavioral economist Dan Ariely, the author of Predictably Irrational, uses classic visual illusions and his own counterintuitive (and sometimes shocking) research findings to show how we're not as rational as we think when we make decisions.

It's become increasingly obvious that the dismal science of economics is not as firmly grounded in actual behavior as was once supposed. In "Predictably Irrational," Dan Ariely tells us why.

Click Here for Video Talk

Trust Me (You Can Play)

2009-05-30T14:36:00.006+02:00

At the 2008 Serious Play conference, designer Tim Brown talks about the powerful relationship between creative thinking and play -- with many examples you can try at home (and one that maybe you shouldn't).

Tim Brown is the CEO of the "innovation and design" firm Ideo -- taking an approach to design that digs deeper than the surface.

Click Here for Video Talk

"An Intolerable Neural Itch"

2009-05-30T13:41:00.006+02:00

Anthropologist Helen Fisher takes on a tricky topic -- love –- and explains its evolution, its biochemical foundations and its social importance. Anthropologist Helen Fisher studies gender differences and the evolution of human emotions. She closes with a warning about the potential disaster inherent in antidepressant abuse.

Click Here for Video Talk

Marshmallows

2009-05-30T13:06:00.004+02:00

Can you wait 15 minutes to eat a marshmallow?

A Study with 4-yr-olds on Delayed Gratification reveals...

Click Here to Listen to this 6 minute talk!

Today I feel...

2009-05-30T12:27:00.001+02:00

like taking a break

Why Are We Happy?

2009-05-30T00:48:00.008+02:00

A Ted Talk by Dan Gilbert, he is definitely amusing!

Daniel Gilbert is the Harvard College Professor of Psychology at Harvard University. His research with Tim Wilson on "affective forecasting" investigates how and how well people can make predictions about the emotional impact of future events.

Dan Gilbert, author of Stumbling on Happiness, challenges the idea that we’ll be miserable if we don’t get what we want. Our "psychological immune system" lets us feel truly happy even when things don’t go as planned.

Click Here for Video Talk

Click Here for More Ted Talks

Habits of Happiness

2009-05-30T00:21:00.003+02:00

Sometimes called the "happiest man in the world," Matthieu Ricard is a Buddhist monk, author and photographer. Here is his video talk on happiness:

Synopsis: What is happiness, and how can we all get some? Biochemist turned Buddhist monk Matthieu Ricard says we can train our minds in habits of well-being, to generate a true sense of serenity and fulfillment.

Click Here for Video Talk

love+oneness+beauty

2009-05-29T22:54:00.009+02:00

This is a free talk online that makes one ponder...
He's a great storyteller (hard to find those)

Rethinking Relationships by Don Miller (Harvard University)
http://www.veritas.org/media/talks/161

Summary: Growing up in a Baptist church, Miller left his faith because all he could get were How answers to his Why questions. He was taught Christian formulas that stole the beauty and mystery from a life with God, ultimately turning his back on God because he found his faith to be simple, silly, and stupid. In this honest and autobiographical talk Miller leads his listeners through his rejection of God and Christianity, his "reawakening to beauty," and way of following Christ through what he calls Christian Spirituality. Touching on topics such as identity, ethics, and the nature of story, Miller's talk is full of insight, humor, and wisdom for all who have questions of God, faith, and life.

More talks on Veritas: http://www.veritas.org/media/talks

Relationships...

2009-05-29T21:57:00.001+02:00