Follow my Artist’s Way journey here and spark your creativity!
And stay tuned on this blog for more zany adventures…
Well, maybe not zany, or particularly adventuresome, but definitely something that happened or occured to me (or someone I know) at some point in time that might be low to moderately interesting.
Does that sound exciting?
Hrumph.
I’m already bored.
Showing posts with label Yay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Yay. Show all posts
Monday, August 29, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
A Creative Endeavor, Cont'd
.....There on my bookcase, partially blocked by my miniature replica of Westminster Abbey, was a book I had purchased years before and had half-heartedly attempted to follow.
But, now, I knew I was ready! So, I went to the bookcase and pulled out The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.
Do you have this book? Have you heard of it?
You probably have. It’s sold over a million copies.
But, in case you haven’t, here’s the gist:
Only you can remove your creative blocks. You remove them by tapping into the creative power of the Creator/Universe/God/Zeitgeist/however you define it.
These blocks prevent you from not only creating art as society has come to define it (like painting, writing, singing, dancing, etc), but they also block you from living more creative daily (like figuring out a solution to a work issue, or developing fuller and fun-er relationships).
Creativity can heal you, and heal those around you. And tuning in to your creativity can change how you view your world, making each day more exciting. (And who doesn’t want that?!)
And The Artist’s Way helps you challenge your blocks and break through them!
Now, before you say, “But, um, I’m not creative”, you need to remember that creativity is our birthright, and in every one of us. So, while you may not be writing a novel or painting your family portrait, you’re probably choosing what you wear each day (and accessorizing), or making up a story for your child, or coming up with a new way to spice up your spaghetti sauce, or changing the layout of your living room, or re-telling an incident that occurred at work (with gestures and voices). THAT IS CREATIVITY!!!
One of my favorite quotes from her book is “[A]s we are creative beings, our lives become our artwork” (Cameron, p. xxvi).
2) You must have a weekly “Artist’s Date.” This date should be between 1 to 2 hours long and should be done solo. It doesn’t have to cost anything, but it should delight you!
Now, along with these two requirements, she has weekly exercises to pick and choose from. Julia suggests you pick the ones that make you the most uncomfortable. So, that’s what I’m going to do.
To be honest, I wasn’t going to mention it. It was just going to be something I did for myself, by myself. But last week, as I was discussing this book and it’s concepts with my friend, Taryn, she suggested that I should blog about it, and that perhaps it might inspire someone else to try something creative. And she’s absolutely right! (Plus, it helps me with accountability. Bonus!)
But, now, I knew I was ready! So, I went to the bookcase and pulled out The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.
Do you have this book? Have you heard of it?
You probably have. It’s sold over a million copies.
But, in case you haven’t, here’s the gist:
Only you can remove your creative blocks. You remove them by tapping into the creative power of the Creator/Universe/God/Zeitgeist/however you define it.
These blocks prevent you from not only creating art as society has come to define it (like painting, writing, singing, dancing, etc), but they also block you from living more creative daily (like figuring out a solution to a work issue, or developing fuller and fun-er relationships).
Creativity can heal you, and heal those around you. And tuning in to your creativity can change how you view your world, making each day more exciting. (And who doesn’t want that?!)
And The Artist’s Way helps you challenge your blocks and break through them!
Now, before you say, “But, um, I’m not creative”, you need to remember that creativity is our birthright, and in every one of us. So, while you may not be writing a novel or painting your family portrait, you’re probably choosing what you wear each day (and accessorizing), or making up a story for your child, or coming up with a new way to spice up your spaghetti sauce, or changing the layout of your living room, or re-telling an incident that occurred at work (with gestures and voices). THAT IS CREATIVITY!!!
One of my favorite quotes from her book is “[A]s we are creative beings, our lives become our artwork” (Cameron, p. xxvi).
I don’t know about you, but I’ve never thought about my life as being my artwork! What an inspiring idea! And I’m ready for the challenge to make it more colorful.
Are you?
The Artist’s Way is a 12 week course. And Julia (I’m going to call her by her first name because it sounds like we’re friends) makes two requests that must be fulfilled during the 3 months:
1) You must write three pages, first thing every morning. This she calls “Morning Pages.” You are not to show these pages to anyone and you are to write whatever comes to mind (even if nothing comes to mind). Ramble away!
2) You must have a weekly “Artist’s Date.” This date should be between 1 to 2 hours long and should be done solo. It doesn’t have to cost anything, but it should delight you!
Both of these things are going to be tough for me because:
1) I’m not a morning person. So waking up earlier, just to write poorly, is going to be a challenge.
2) While I don’t mind going places or doing things by myself, I’m not so good at following through when I’m not held accountable by others (especially when my pajamas are calling my name).
But, I’m going to do it. There’s a contract in the book and I’m going to sign it!
Now, along with these two requirements, she has weekly exercises to pick and choose from. Julia suggests you pick the ones that make you the most uncomfortable. So, that’s what I’m going to do.
At this point, if you’re still reading, you might be asking yourself “Why are you telling me all this?”
Good question.
To be honest, I wasn’t going to mention it. It was just going to be something I did for myself, by myself. But last week, as I was discussing this book and it’s concepts with my friend, Taryn, she suggested that I should blog about it, and that perhaps it might inspire someone else to try something creative. And she’s absolutely right! (Plus, it helps me with accountability. Bonus!)
So, if you’re interested, I’m starting next week (on Monday, of course). I’ll being posting about the exercises I choose, the struggles I have, the discoveries I make, and my weekly Artist Date. My plan is to post all this on my sad, lonely, and forgotten blog. (I want to leave this blog open for all my other witty thoughts…..… [crickets chirping]……… [hollow wind blowing]……… [……….]………)
If you want to try this with me, great! I would love for you to share this journey with me.
But, more than that, I hope you realize that you have the option of injecting creativity into your life any time you choose.
Choose now!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
A Creative Endeavor
Let me ask you a question:
How creative is your life?
Very? Not very? Huh?
Now, let me ask you a slightly different question:
How creative are YOU in your life?
A little? A lot? What?
Okay, let me ask you a third question:
Would you like more, and to be more, of it? (Creative, that is.)
Yes? No? Maybe?
Now, let me tell you why I’m asking.
Before I started Grad school two years ago, I was dabbling in creative things. I was working on my mixed media art, I was taking online art workshops, I had started a blog about my poetry/fiction writing, and I was frequenting dozens of creative blogs for inspiration and community.
But, then, I started school.
And with that, everything else “superfluous” took a back seat (or in some cases, was dropped off at my parent’s house, never to be seen again.)
That’s how it remained from August of 2009 through June of 2011 when I graduated. (Hooray!)
But instead of falling back into my creative endeavors, I did the opposite.
Now, yes, a break was needed. So, I told myself that it was perfectly fine to take a few weeks to decompress from the stress of it all. (And by decompress, I mean sit around doing nothing but watching TV in my pajamas. (And I may or may not have put on said pajamas as soon as I got home from work. (What?)))
After about a month, though, I realized that while I felt much more relaxed due to my nightly three-hour pajama-wearing TV time, I was slowly turning into a lifeless person with nothing to talk about but what so-in-so did on such-and-such TV show*. I had nothing to say about my actual life. (Except that work was fine, but busy.)
With that startling (and depressing) realization, I’ve been on a search for other things to occupy my time, and actually help me to improve my skills and interests as a person.
Now, don’t get me wrong, TV has taught me a few things that have added to my life, but by its nature, TV is passive. I observe. I don’t engage. But what I realized I was longing for was improvement by doing, by taking action, by living!
After this epiphany, I started setting parameters (because that’s how I am). I wanted to do something that wasn’t too hard, wasn’t too time-consuming (I still have shows to keep up with, after all), and didn’t cost a lot of money.
But, I wanted whatever it was to push me out of my comfort zone, challenge me creatively, and increase my daily joy.
All of this has been marinating in my head for the past month, and it wasn’t until last Monday night as I was contemplating my situation (which might have been while wearing my pajamas and during the commercial break of a well-known gossip show), I looked over to my bookcase and something caught my eye.
Eureka!
TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW BECAUSE THIS POST IS ALREADY WAY TOO LONG…
*Part of my TV viewing was shows on the Documentary Channel. Do you have this? It’s fabulous! Next time you see me, ask me about some of the documentaries I’ve watched. I will regale you with stories about fascinating people: like people who stare at the sun for energy, or the boy who looked for his invisible girlfriend, or the Mountain Talk folk, or what luminaries of our time have to say about forgiveness, or… **
**On second thought, you may not want to ask me. I’ve counted up and in the last three months I’ve watched 27 documentaries. It might be best to keep that door shut.
How creative is your life?
Very? Not very? Huh?
Now, let me ask you a slightly different question:
How creative are YOU in your life?
A little? A lot? What?
Okay, let me ask you a third question:
Would you like more, and to be more, of it? (Creative, that is.)
Yes? No? Maybe?
Now, let me tell you why I’m asking.
Before I started Grad school two years ago, I was dabbling in creative things. I was working on my mixed media art, I was taking online art workshops, I had started a blog about my poetry/fiction writing, and I was frequenting dozens of creative blogs for inspiration and community.
But, then, I started school.
And with that, everything else “superfluous” took a back seat (or in some cases, was dropped off at my parent’s house, never to be seen again.)
That’s how it remained from August of 2009 through June of 2011 when I graduated. (Hooray!)
But instead of falling back into my creative endeavors, I did the opposite.
Now, yes, a break was needed. So, I told myself that it was perfectly fine to take a few weeks to decompress from the stress of it all. (And by decompress, I mean sit around doing nothing but watching TV in my pajamas. (And I may or may not have put on said pajamas as soon as I got home from work. (What?)))
After about a month, though, I realized that while I felt much more relaxed due to my nightly three-hour pajama-wearing TV time, I was slowly turning into a lifeless person with nothing to talk about but what so-in-so did on such-and-such TV show*. I had nothing to say about my actual life. (Except that work was fine, but busy.)
With that startling (and depressing) realization, I’ve been on a search for other things to occupy my time, and actually help me to improve my skills and interests as a person.
Now, don’t get me wrong, TV has taught me a few things that have added to my life, but by its nature, TV is passive. I observe. I don’t engage. But what I realized I was longing for was improvement by doing, by taking action, by living!
After this epiphany, I started setting parameters (because that’s how I am). I wanted to do something that wasn’t too hard, wasn’t too time-consuming (I still have shows to keep up with, after all), and didn’t cost a lot of money.
But, I wanted whatever it was to push me out of my comfort zone, challenge me creatively, and increase my daily joy.
All of this has been marinating in my head for the past month, and it wasn’t until last Monday night as I was contemplating my situation (which might have been while wearing my pajamas and during the commercial break of a well-known gossip show), I looked over to my bookcase and something caught my eye.
Eureka!
TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW BECAUSE THIS POST IS ALREADY WAY TOO LONG…
*Part of my TV viewing was shows on the Documentary Channel. Do you have this? It’s fabulous! Next time you see me, ask me about some of the documentaries I’ve watched. I will regale you with stories about fascinating people: like people who stare at the sun for energy, or the boy who looked for his invisible girlfriend, or the Mountain Talk folk, or what luminaries of our time have to say about forgiveness, or… **
**On second thought, you may not want to ask me. I’ve counted up and in the last three months I’ve watched 27 documentaries. It might be best to keep that door shut.
Monday, June 1, 2009
On My Walk Today…
Jehovah’s Witnesses!
Hurray! The best walk ever!!*
*And I mean this sincerely. If you know me, you know there is nothing I like better than a good Jesus discussion, especially when said discussion is from good people trying to save my soul**! I was only sad that I couldn’t chat with them more, but I was on a break and had to get back to work…
**This reminds me of a post I've been meaning to blog about: my TV pastor! Cause I have one, and I watch him every Sunday. And I've even ordered his book and am on his one month program! I've got a bracelet to prove it and everything!***
***Don't worry, I'm not converting. I'm just trying to understand how people believe what they believe (or don't believe, for that matter). This gives me something to think about when I'm in nursery...
Hurray! The best walk ever!!*
*And I mean this sincerely. If you know me, you know there is nothing I like better than a good Jesus discussion, especially when said discussion is from good people trying to save my soul**! I was only sad that I couldn’t chat with them more, but I was on a break and had to get back to work…
**This reminds me of a post I've been meaning to blog about: my TV pastor! Cause I have one, and I watch him every Sunday. And I've even ordered his book and am on his one month program! I've got a bracelet to prove it and everything!***
***Don't worry, I'm not converting. I'm just trying to understand how people believe what they believe (or don't believe, for that matter). This gives me something to think about when I'm in nursery...
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Is that a Poem in your Pocket, or a grocery list?
Yep, today is National Poem in your Pocket day!!!!
This means that you, yes YOU, need to share a poem with your nearest and/or dearest.
Last year, when I passed out poems to all of my co-workers, it was a great success that produced poetry discussion. Yay!
This year, I’m handing out one of my favorite poems by Dylan Thomas, “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night.” It’s a classic, and I love the power of the words. (You can hear him read it here.)
If you need some suggestions, visit this link. Poets.org has done all the work for you!
And, if you don’t have the desire to pass poetry on to others, that’s okay.
Just share it with yourself!
This means that you, yes YOU, need to share a poem with your nearest and/or dearest.
Last year, when I passed out poems to all of my co-workers, it was a great success that produced poetry discussion. Yay!
This year, I’m handing out one of my favorite poems by Dylan Thomas, “Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night.” It’s a classic, and I love the power of the words. (You can hear him read it here.)
If you need some suggestions, visit this link. Poets.org has done all the work for you!
And, if you don’t have the desire to pass poetry on to others, that’s okay.
Just share it with yourself!
Friday, April 24, 2009
A Question that has the power to change our lives…
1) If you knew you could not fail, what dream of yours would you make come true?
I’ve been thinking about this question for weeks now. Fear of failure stops us from so much in our life, and it’s something I’m working on overcoming.
Now, I have a great life, don’t get me wrong. And over the last year I’ve incorporated a lot more of what I love (and used to fear) into my day-to-day. But, I want more!
So, I’ve been asking myself, if failure wasn’t going to happen, what would I do?
And now, I’m asking you the same thing…
Think of the possibilities!
Would you quit your job and start your own business?
Would finally write that novel? Paint that picture? Publish that poem?
Would you move to a completely different country?
Would you leave an unhealthy relationship?
Sell everything you own and travel the world?
Tell your secret crush that you love them?
Would you cut and dye your hair?
We only have one life!
Don’t let fear rule it…
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Conversations…
So, I work at a university.
And for the most part I love it (except for all the students).
But, every so often, I have a conversation with a student that makes dealing with the other 22 gazillion unhappy ones worth it.
Yesterday, one such tête-à-tête took place.
ME: Hi, how can I help you?
STUDENT: I’m here to turn in this paperwork.
ME: Okay.
STUDENT: I wasn’t sure…[His phone starts ringing, and so he looks at it.] Oh, I have to take this. [Then he turns slightly to the side, (so as to not be looking directly at me), and answers the phone.]
STUDENT: Hello? Grandpa? Is that you? [He’s then silent while he’s listening for about a minute.] Grandpa? It’s me! STEVEN! No. No. STEVEN! No, Grandpa. I’m at school. SCHOOL! No, SCHOOOOOLLLL!!!!
ME: If you could just step to the side of the counter. [He doesn’t appear to hear me.] Sir, if you could just...[He holds up a finger. No, not that one. The index finger which is the universal sign for "Just a second."]
STUDENT: No, Grandpa. Don’t do that! NO GRANDPA!!! DON’T DO THAT!!! I’m not there. I’M NOT THERE!!! I’M AT SCHOOL!! NO, SCHOOOLLL!!!! Grandpa! GRANDPA!!! Put that down. No, DOWN!!! No, this is STEVEN! STEEEVVVEEENNN!!!!!
ME: [Trying not to laugh at what is cleary a family problem.]
STUDENT: Grandpa? GRANDPA? My mom should be there any minute, so just wait! MY MOM! No, DOROTHY! DOORROOTHYYYY!!! Grandpa? Don’t do that! DON’T DO THAT!!! JUST WAIT!!!!
[SILENCE for about 15 seconds.]
STUDENT: Grandpa? Is she there? Dorothy. Yes. Your daughter. Okay. Bye, Grandpa.
[The student now turns back to me.]
STUDENT: That was my grandpa.
ME: Oh, really?
People are funny.
And for the most part I love it (except for all the students).
But, every so often, I have a conversation with a student that makes dealing with the other 22 gazillion unhappy ones worth it.
Yesterday, one such tête-à-tête took place.
ME: Hi, how can I help you?
STUDENT: I’m here to turn in this paperwork.
ME: Okay.
STUDENT: I wasn’t sure…[His phone starts ringing, and so he looks at it.] Oh, I have to take this. [Then he turns slightly to the side, (so as to not be looking directly at me), and answers the phone.]
STUDENT: Hello? Grandpa? Is that you? [He’s then silent while he’s listening for about a minute.] Grandpa? It’s me! STEVEN! No. No. STEVEN! No, Grandpa. I’m at school. SCHOOL! No, SCHOOOOOLLLL!!!!
ME: If you could just step to the side of the counter. [He doesn’t appear to hear me.] Sir, if you could just...[He holds up a finger. No, not that one. The index finger which is the universal sign for "Just a second."]
STUDENT: No, Grandpa. Don’t do that! NO GRANDPA!!! DON’T DO THAT!!! I’m not there. I’M NOT THERE!!! I’M AT SCHOOL!! NO, SCHOOOLLL!!!! Grandpa! GRANDPA!!! Put that down. No, DOWN!!! No, this is STEVEN! STEEEVVVEEENNN!!!!!
ME: [Trying not to laugh at what is cleary a family problem.]
STUDENT: Grandpa? GRANDPA? My mom should be there any minute, so just wait! MY MOM! No, DOROTHY! DOORROOTHYYYY!!! Grandpa? Don’t do that! DON’T DO THAT!!! JUST WAIT!!!!
[SILENCE for about 15 seconds.]
STUDENT: Grandpa? Is she there? Dorothy. Yes. Your daughter. Okay. Bye, Grandpa.
[The student now turns back to me.]
STUDENT: That was my grandpa.
ME: Oh, really?
People are funny.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Book Begging
In the last 5 weeks, I’ve read 11 books.
For some of you, that may be a lot—for others, a regular occurrence.
For me, I always seem to live in either a state of drought or downpour.
And recently I’ve been putting on my galoshes* and dancing in the rain!
And while I’ve been reading a mix of genres, (political, historical, religious, and memoirs), what I’ve been loving is all the fiction!
It’s been a long time since I’ve lost myself in someone’s made up world and I’ve missed it. (I’ve even found myself liking books I normally wouldn’t.)
But, I’m running out of book recommendations.
So, I’m sending out a public plea to all who stumble upon my blog (whether I know you or not):
What books have changed your life? Altered your reality? What books do you turn to when everyday life is too much? When you need to escape? What classics do you love? What new authors are you raving about?
In essence, what are your favorite books?
Whether you have one or 100, I want to know about them. So please, pretty please, leave me a comment! (Or shoot me an email if that suits you better.)
I need more to read! So I’m begging you for book suggestions…
*I’ve never actually owned a pair of galoshes, but it’s always been a dream of mine. “Galoshes” is one of my favorite words…
For some of you, that may be a lot—for others, a regular occurrence.
For me, I always seem to live in either a state of drought or downpour.
And recently I’ve been putting on my galoshes* and dancing in the rain!
And while I’ve been reading a mix of genres, (political, historical, religious, and memoirs), what I’ve been loving is all the fiction!
It’s been a long time since I’ve lost myself in someone’s made up world and I’ve missed it. (I’ve even found myself liking books I normally wouldn’t.)
But, I’m running out of book recommendations.
So, I’m sending out a public plea to all who stumble upon my blog (whether I know you or not):
What books have changed your life? Altered your reality? What books do you turn to when everyday life is too much? When you need to escape? What classics do you love? What new authors are you raving about?
In essence, what are your favorite books?
Whether you have one or 100, I want to know about them. So please, pretty please, leave me a comment! (Or shoot me an email if that suits you better.)
I need more to read! So I’m begging you for book suggestions…
*I’ve never actually owned a pair of galoshes, but it’s always been a dream of mine. “Galoshes” is one of my favorite words…
Thursday, October 2, 2008
See! I’m not a liar!!!
So, for months and months and months, now, I’ve been saying that I entered a poetry contest (by accident, actually) and my poem received an honorable mention (which was a complete surprise—since, again, I didn’t know I had entered the contest).
And all of you dear friends were like “That’s great Liz!” “Way to go!” “You’re the best.”*
And then months passed, and nothing. No proof that what I said was true.
I stopped bringing it up because I was afraid you’d all start thinking I was telling a tall tale. You know, that I had somehow confused having a poem published in a literary journal with reading a poem in a literary journal by someone named Liz.
But, yesterday when I got home from a long day at work, there was a surprise waiting for me in the mail…The Summer 2008 edition of Segullah and when I opened up the pages, there I was!!!!
A full page with my poem on it!!!
Yay!!!!
You can see the cover here. (And you’ll notice on the lower right of the webpage, under the Poetry section, you’ll see my name.”
I’m thinking of pinning the journal to my shirt and wearing it around town.
So, if you want to read it, just ask. I’ll have it on me**…
*These aren’t direct quotes. But, I’m assuming they’re close to what you said… =)
**And if any of you subscribe, not only will you get wonderful essays and poems by and about Mormon women, but you’ll also get my autograph. You know, for when I become a world famous poet.***
***Because when I become a world famous poet, I’m planning on moving to a small cottage in Ireland, where I’ll be a recluse. And then, it will totally be hard to get my signature, because if you stop by, I’ll probably throw stones and yell at you in Gaelic to get off my property.****
****Of course, I might let you in and give you an autograph if you’re there to film a documentary on my life, à la Grey Gardens. Because I’m sure, by then, I’ll be REALLY quirky. I can’t guarantee that I’ll be living with raccoons, and have a hot plate by my bed, but it’s very likely that I’ll have some kind of hygienic issue and questionable pet. Like my hair will be puffed out to the size of a small moon and I’ll have a pet jaguar.*****
***** I’d love to have a jaguar…I’d name him Kirk.
And all of you dear friends were like “That’s great Liz!” “Way to go!” “You’re the best.”*
And then months passed, and nothing. No proof that what I said was true.
I stopped bringing it up because I was afraid you’d all start thinking I was telling a tall tale. You know, that I had somehow confused having a poem published in a literary journal with reading a poem in a literary journal by someone named Liz.
But, yesterday when I got home from a long day at work, there was a surprise waiting for me in the mail…The Summer 2008 edition of Segullah and when I opened up the pages, there I was!!!!
A full page with my poem on it!!!
Yay!!!!
You can see the cover here. (And you’ll notice on the lower right of the webpage, under the Poetry section, you’ll see my name.”
I’m thinking of pinning the journal to my shirt and wearing it around town.
So, if you want to read it, just ask. I’ll have it on me**…
*These aren’t direct quotes. But, I’m assuming they’re close to what you said… =)
**And if any of you subscribe, not only will you get wonderful essays and poems by and about Mormon women, but you’ll also get my autograph. You know, for when I become a world famous poet.***
***Because when I become a world famous poet, I’m planning on moving to a small cottage in Ireland, where I’ll be a recluse. And then, it will totally be hard to get my signature, because if you stop by, I’ll probably throw stones and yell at you in Gaelic to get off my property.****
****Of course, I might let you in and give you an autograph if you’re there to film a documentary on my life, à la Grey Gardens. Because I’m sure, by then, I’ll be REALLY quirky. I can’t guarantee that I’ll be living with raccoons, and have a hot plate by my bed, but it’s very likely that I’ll have some kind of hygienic issue and questionable pet. Like my hair will be puffed out to the size of a small moon and I’ll have a pet jaguar.*****
***** I’d love to have a jaguar…I’d name him Kirk.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Collage Number Four (i.e. Hannah)
So, I FINALLY saw Hannah a couple of weeks ago, and was able to give her the collage I made for her birthday!
Yay!
You can see it, here.
Yay!
You can see it, here.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Busy Art Week
I’m having art overload this week!!
First of all, I started a Mixed Media art class last week and am already behind on my homework. I’ve got to start shading my faces and I still don’t have faces good enough to shade. Sigh.
Second, I’m trying to put the finishing touches on Rachel’s birthday present, and I think I’m just making it worse. I’m very tempted to throw it out and start over… (Dear Rachel, I'm sorry I've messed up your present. Love, Liz)
Third, I’m trying to finish my ATC’s (Artist Trading Cards) and get them mailed off to Canada, The Netherlands, and Spain, for my ATC group. So, I’m feeling stressed about that, as well.
Fourth, I’ve started another birthday M.M.A. that I need to get done in the next couple weeks and I have so many ideas I think my head is going to explode!
These reasons, and a few others, are making me very busy. I feel like every spare* minute I have I’m sketching something, painting something, or cleaning up spills. (F.Y.I. dark green paint DOES NOT come out of beige carpet, no matter how fast you try to clean it up or how many cleaning solutions you use.)
I’m feeling a little creatively drained…
But, I’ve never felt more alive!!
*Thankfully, (although a little tearfully), the Olympics are over, so I should have more spare minutes now!
First of all, I started a Mixed Media art class last week and am already behind on my homework. I’ve got to start shading my faces and I still don’t have faces good enough to shade. Sigh.
Second, I’m trying to put the finishing touches on Rachel’s birthday present, and I think I’m just making it worse. I’m very tempted to throw it out and start over… (Dear Rachel, I'm sorry I've messed up your present. Love, Liz)
Third, I’m trying to finish my ATC’s (Artist Trading Cards) and get them mailed off to Canada, The Netherlands, and Spain, for my ATC group. So, I’m feeling stressed about that, as well.
Fourth, I’ve started another birthday M.M.A. that I need to get done in the next couple weeks and I have so many ideas I think my head is going to explode!
These reasons, and a few others, are making me very busy. I feel like every spare* minute I have I’m sketching something, painting something, or cleaning up spills. (F.Y.I. dark green paint DOES NOT come out of beige carpet, no matter how fast you try to clean it up or how many cleaning solutions you use.)
I’m feeling a little creatively drained…
But, I’ve never felt more alive!!
*Thankfully, (although a little tearfully), the Olympics are over, so I should have more spare minutes now!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Friday Fluff
In today’s fluffy post, prepare yourselves for shock, intrigue, and spy amazement!
Oh, and find out where I’m moving in 2010 if I have nothing else going for me!!
______________
All I can say is it's about time!!
When this is finally available to the masses, I’m going to be the first in line to buy it! Just think of all the places I could go and be undetected!!
Well, actually, I can’t think of any off the top of my head, but I’m sure there are some places I'd want to go undetected. Give me a minute... um…
______________
And to stick with our undercover spy theme, did you hear about this? Who knew that she could cook up a mean bouillabaisse and at the same time gather secret info. on the Nazis!
What an awesomely awesome woman!!
______________
This last one has nothing to do with the other two, but I’m thinking of moving there. You know, since the mayor gave a “shout out” and all.
My favorite line in the article is when the mayor refuses to apologize because he’s “telling it like it is.”
There's hope for me at last!
Marriage, here I come!!
Whose with me?
Have a great weekend everyone*.
*And remember, there’s some desperate miner in a remote town in Australia just waiting for you! Isn’t life grand?!
Oh, and find out where I’m moving in 2010 if I have nothing else going for me!!
______________
All I can say is it's about time!!
When this is finally available to the masses, I’m going to be the first in line to buy it! Just think of all the places I could go and be undetected!!
Well, actually, I can’t think of any off the top of my head, but I’m sure there are some places I'd want to go undetected. Give me a minute... um…
______________
And to stick with our undercover spy theme, did you hear about this? Who knew that she could cook up a mean bouillabaisse and at the same time gather secret info. on the Nazis!
What an awesomely awesome woman!!
______________
This last one has nothing to do with the other two, but I’m thinking of moving there. You know, since the mayor gave a “shout out” and all.
My favorite line in the article is when the mayor refuses to apologize because he’s “telling it like it is.”
There's hope for me at last!
Marriage, here I come!!
Whose with me?
Have a great weekend everyone*.
*And remember, there’s some desperate miner in a remote town in Australia just waiting for you! Isn’t life grand?!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Flashback to the 80’s, Mormon Style
Hi, my name is Liz, and I’m addicted to iTunes.
And I don’t plan on stopping. So don’t try to organize an intervention.
Frankly, it’s too convenient stop!
I hear a song. I look it up on iTunes. I download it. And in minutes I’m dancing about in my room with glee.
No travel necessary. No wasted money on a CD with 2 great songs and 8 crappy ones. Just pick the one you want and enjoy!
I go to iTunes almost every day. Seriously.
And recently, I’ve developed a habit of typing random names in its search engine to see who pops up. (For example: I now have 4 songs on my iPod by 4 different women named Eliza. Who knew?)
iTunes has expanded my music world! From African chant music to Welsh folk songs to New Zealand “worship” singers, I love it all and have put it on my iPod!
But, something happened to me a few weeks ago that really opened my eyes to the great inventory iTunes holds.
I had decided that I needed a little 80’s, and specifically, some Howard Jones. (You know you love him!) So, as per the usual, I typed in his name and hit “search” and waited for the joy to occur.
Tons of “80’s Greatest Hits” or “Super Hits of the 80’s” popped up. And as I scrolled down through the songs of the 80’s, I saw what I expected: “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “Take on Me,” “Never Gonna Give You Up.” I was in heaven!
But then, as I continued to scroll down, I found something odd. In between songs by Duran Duran were songs like “His Hands.” And right after Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam there was “Like a Lighthouse” and “I Heard Him Come.”
I couldn’t understand what happened! How did iTunes know I was Mormon? Why did it have Mormon songs in its database? And why was it stalking me with Kenneth Cope?
As I scanned the webpage looking for answers (while trying to calm myself down as I thought that perhaps God really WAS trying to contact me through the internet, and all those emails that “God loves you unless you don’t forward this to 12 people” were right), I noticed one of the album titles at the top of the page: LDS Super Hits of the 80’s!*
Yes, I know. You’re as surprised as I was! Someone actually compiled the greatest Mormon hits, put them on a CD, and then iTunes got a hold of it! What a magical world we live in!!
Of course, I had to click on the Album cover to see all of the songs listed. And they were just what you’d expect. (“Hold on, the Light Will Come”, “Greater Than Us All”, and “Win the Race”.)
What was interesting to me was to see what songs had the most downloads.
In a show of solidarity (and in homage to my teenage self), I put the song on my iPod that was the second most downloaded.
Do you think you can guess it?
Maybe?
No?
Don’t care?
It’s “Will He Really Answer Me?”
And the song with the most downloads?
Do you think you can guess it?
Maybe?
No?
Don’t care?
Well, it was “Be That Friend.” Seriously, that song was through the roof with the downloads.
So, if you’re lonely and one of the people who made it number one, take the song off repeat.
I’ll be that friend for you!
And if you have an LDS song that you love or loathe, drop me a line in the comments and we'll reminisce together!
*There is also an LDS Super Hits of the 90’s. (Just passing that along in case you wanted to get a head start on your Christmas shopping!)
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Big Bear Bonanza!
5 Things I learned while in Big Bear: 1. The Big Bear zoo makes me sad. All the animals there were abused, injured, or abandoned. There’s like a cloud of gloominess that hovers over the entire place. Yes, it’s a good thing to rescue animals and provide for them. Yes, I was happy to pay the larger fee because I knew it was going to animals that needed rehabilitation. (Like Huckleberry, the three legged bear. Poor old Huckleberry.)
But, holy moly, the dreariness of the place was palpable. All the animals would look at you with eyes that were saying “Just counting down the days until death. Sweet death.”
I don’t know if I’ll ever go back. The nephews liked it. But, they’re just kids, so the despair was lost on them.
2. I love the “House of Jerky.” First of all, due to its name. I think because it reminds me of “House of Pancakes.” Any establishment that dedicates itself to one item, and thrives, is okay in my book. (Well, as long as it’s not “House of Depressed Animals” which I’ve already mentioned I’m not a fan of.)
Second of all, because it makes me feel like a pioneer to leave with a little pack of jerky and think “I could trek across the great Big Bear landscape and survive the harsh clime with my jerky stash.”
I’m not as brave as some members of my family. I stick with the regular kind. I passed on the ostrich, buffalo, and venison.
3. I am now a huge fan of Mahjong! I learned how to play it this weekend from one of my sisters-in-law (Hi Daphne!) and fell in love with the game. (Even though I stunk at it.)
Now, if you’ve ever played a game with me, you will know that I’m not competitive. In fact, I will help other players win if I can. This was not the case with Mahjong. I don’t know if it was because it took me so long to get the concept, but I became set on winning. I didn’t, mind you (even though we played 7 games in a row). But, in my heart of hearts I wanted to be the Mahjong champion.
We’ve ordered two sets for my family, and soon I’m going to announce an upcoming “Mahjong Extravaganza Party!!” You’re all invited. But be forewarned, when I play with you, I’m going to try my best to crush you into dust (in a Christ-like manner, of course).
4. High tea is for me! In Big Bear they have this cute tea shop that is decorated to the nines. It’s like tea cup happiness exploded all over the ceiling. And they offer the “high tea” experience which means that they bring you a plethora of little foods to enjoy with your selection of teas. Tiny sandwiches of all varieties, tiny soup, tiny salad, and tiny scones, cakes, and muffins. I was in tiny heaven!
It was so much fun to go with my mom, sisters, and sisters-in-law and have time away from the boys to chat while using fancy cutlery and raising our pinkies. What a blast! Our only regret is that we didn’t realize (until we were leaving) that the hat rack filled with awesome hats were for the guests to wear during their tea. Oh well, next year!
The price of the whole thing made my brothers and father question our sanity. But, really, can you put a price on memories filled with little delights? Can you? I don’t think so.
5. I love my family!
Even in tight quarters with 7 people to a bathroom and 6 of us to a room.
Even with babies crying and children screaming and parents yelling.
Even with smeared chocolate mouths on new shirts and “Carry me!” on a long walk with a hurt back.
Even with slight disagreements over dishes and fierce competition over Mahjong.
In fact, I love them because of all those things! And can’t wait until next year when we do it again!!
Yay for families!!!!!*
Here are some pictures:
* And speaking of families, could you all do me a favor and say a little prayer for my brother Joe who has come down with a case of the Shingles? Yes, Shingles. Poor guy. It's terribly painful...
Friday, July 25, 2008
Friday Fluff…
…in the news!
First, what do you think about my new blog design? I think it’s bright and happy! Maybe a little busy, but for now, I’m sticking with it.
________________
Can I just say how excited I am about Rachel and Katie’s Olympics party? I have the costume for my country all picked out. And my food representing that country, chosen.
But, I hope and pray that like China, Rachel and Katie institute this rule for any food brought by other party guests.
Cause if not, I’m not touching a thing!
_________________
Did you ever go through a phase where you hated your name? I know I did.
But, I now see that I had nothing to complain about.
What is wrong with people? I’m not a fan of the idea of “Big Brother” monitoring everything we do, but, sometimes I really think people should be forced to take some kind of test before they become parents.
I mean, what kind of a parent names their child Violence? A good one?
I don’t think so.
_________________
And lastly, if you know me, you know that if I don’t have a pocket or purse (and sometimes even when I do), I’ll store something in my bra.
Phone, money, lipstick, keys, glasses, they’ve all been stuffed next to my décolletage.
And, I’ll admit that there have been times when I’ve forgotten that something is in there, only to be surprised later when it falls out.
But, this? A live creature? Come on!
How could you not notice? And she’s so calm about it.
If I found a bat in my bra, you would still be hearing the echo of my screams.
___________________
Well, I hope you have a fabulous weekend. I’m off to Big Bear to be with my family for a little mini-vacation.
And not to worry, since I’m going to be in the foresty mountains, I’m going to be extra careful that what I put in my bra isn’t alive!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
OPEN LETTER OF EXCITEMENT AND DISBELIEF!!!!! [Cue the bells and whistles and confetti]
Dear 10,000th Visitor,
Who were you? Come on, confess! I have a present for you! (Other than my undying love which is a given.)
I hope you were someone I know! Or at the very least someone who knows someone I know. Or someone who knows someone who knows me, but I don’t know them.
Really, I just hope you weren’t a spammer.
I’ve been hit by those recently and would be bummed if I had to give my “You’re Awesomely Awesome for Visiting Me” present to federal student loan or lottery gambling.
In any event, thank you! Thank you for stopping by, even if it was accidental, and you only looked at my blog for a nanosecond. I still love you!
So, tell me who you were so you can collect your gift*.
And come back soon!
Gratefully yours,
Liz
*Would it help you to confess if I told you about the present? Well, it’s a one-of-a-kind mixed media piece by yours truly entitled “To the Super Best Blog Reader in the World.” Who wouldn't want that?
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Question: What’s big, and heavy, and rectangle inside and out?
Answer: A box of books!
So, I belong to a book society/group that sends me monthly catalogs of books I've never heard of. Most of the time, I don’t order anything. (I already have stacks of books to read, after all.)
But about a month or so ago, they sent me an email saying that if I send them $50, they’ll send me a surprise box of books.
Now, how could I pass that up!
What I expected to get was a bunch of junk—stuff I would NEVER read or purchase on my own. But, I’m a sucker for the element of surprise. So, I sent them my money, and then promptly forgot about the whole thing.
Until one magical day, when I walked up the stairs, and saw my front door. There, resting as a possible safety hazard, was a beautiful cardboard box with my name on it!
And inside, I found joy in the form of seven blessed books!
They weren’t crap!
I’d actually read them!
Yay!
In case you can’t read all the titles, here they are:
The Traditional Shops and Restaurants of London (Now I’m ready for my trip to this great city! Who’s with me?)
Elements of the Table (Throwing a fancy party and want to know how to wow your guests? Well, this is the book for that. You know I’m going to use this for my next event!)
Reading Like a Writer (You all know how my favorite books to read are books on how to read! This is perfect!)
Drives Like a Dream (This is a novel I’d never heard of, but since I’ve started to write another book, (Did I tell you guys that?), I’m reading as many books as I can to “study the craft.”)
Gatsby’s Girl (Another novel for craft studying! This one looks pretty interesting…)
Cakes and Ale (I’ve never read anything by W. Somerset Maugham, but have always wanted to.)
And last, but not least,
101 Best Scenes Ever Written (Could this be more perfect for me right now?)
I wish every day I could come home and find a box on my doormat filled with surprises.
Don’t you?
What a way to live!
The Traditional Shops and Restaurants of London (Now I’m ready for my trip to this great city! Who’s with me?)
Elements of the Table (Throwing a fancy party and want to know how to wow your guests? Well, this is the book for that. You know I’m going to use this for my next event!)
Reading Like a Writer (You all know how my favorite books to read are books on how to read! This is perfect!)
Drives Like a Dream (This is a novel I’d never heard of, but since I’ve started to write another book, (Did I tell you guys that?), I’m reading as many books as I can to “study the craft.”)
Gatsby’s Girl (Another novel for craft studying! This one looks pretty interesting…)
Cakes and Ale (I’ve never read anything by W. Somerset Maugham, but have always wanted to.)
And last, but not least,
101 Best Scenes Ever Written (Could this be more perfect for me right now?)
I wish every day I could come home and find a box on my doormat filled with surprises.
Don’t you?
What a way to live!
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