March's Third Thursday Art Night

If this image looks familiar, you're right, it does. This time last year I had just had my first art show and this was one of the pieces I submitted. Looking back, I can see how I've grown and one of those ways is in my need for gathering and sharing what I know.

What this means creative souls is that this March [March 20th to be exact] the 'Third Thursday Art Night' is all about reconnecting with creating art. Do you remember those days? Where playing and making went hand in hand. 

As we age it can be harder and harder to let go, play and create without self-judgment and fear. This ‘Third Thursday’ will be all about exploring mixed media collage and creating from the place of your inner child – the one whose art inhibitions run wild! 

No experience or supplies are necessary. All you have to do is bring an open heart and be ready to play -- with paper, fabric, paint, and a variety of found objects.

Class will be held at 'The Farm Table' at 4012 Ryan Place from 6:30-9 pm. The cost is $25 with a $10 discount if you bring a friend. Message me if you would like to attend. 

Friday's Quote

Last night was the first of many 'Third Thursday Art Nights'. Over the past year I have been craving for a place or regular event to gather with like-minded women. In searching the area over, nothing felt quite right, but when I looked within I knew right where to find that perfect place. It's at our farm table. Creating art, sharing, sipping tea and laughing.

'There is no passion to be found in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.' 

Nelson Mandela

Pure & True

There's something about this time of year that makes me yearn for white. White flowers, new white linens, the desire to paint a wall white...well you get the picture.

Maybe it's a reflection of the snow outside, the month of love [some think of red, but love is pure and white to me] or the new year that still has me wiping the slate clean, ready for what's next.

This afternoon was spent in the kitchen working with pure and true ingredients to make some tried and true products and a couple of new ones as well -- hand scrub, lip scrub, sprays, cuticle oil, facial oils and soaps.

The smells were heavenly. My hands were and still are super soft. And my senses in a state of peace. Yes, it really is all about being pure and true these days.

Friday's Quote

'The best and most beautiful things in the world

cannot be seen or even touched 

-- they must be felt with the heart.'

Helen Keller 

Treasured Moments

There are so many things about blog life I love and enjoy, but I will also readily admit that everyday life is not always as whimsical, dreamy and easy peasy as it can appear here. If you happen to be a fellow blogger or know a blogger, you may already know where I'm going with this. 

I strive to make this a positive place for you and without a doubt for me, as this is truly one of my happy places and getting to share it with others is icing on the cake. What this also means is that the struggles, the days where I'm feeling blah, up all night with a sick fur baby, or even the occasional overdosed reading session about highly accomplished people that makes me feel rather unaccomplished, doesn't make it to the pages of this blog.  

Rather I make a concerted effort to keep what I post here about treasured moments, similar to the ones displayed on the mantle, book shelves and even the top of my dresser. For when I look back, whether it be to last week or last year, I seek something of richer substance -- moments in my life where there's been love and joy. 

Well hello honey!!! I bet you weren't expecting deep insight on blogging today. And to be honest, either was I. I logged on to share sweet moments from my day, but after months of muddling through, the universe generously gave me gifts and moments that I was able to graciously receive. And they were as refreshing as the first smell of spring. Kind words, kind gestures, new people and new opportunities that are all being as treasured as my renewed sense of hope. 

Friday's Quote

"Steep

and begin a journey that spans continents and centuries on speed-of-sound steam trains. 

Sip 

the sun, rain and fog of the morning these delicate botanicals were picked. 

Explore

lemongrass lawns, carpets of chamomile and the living history of your ancestors. 

Taste with all your senses, but most of all with your imagination. 

Each cup is a story, unfolding with every sip." Tazo Tea

Seeds & Spring

We maybe in the middle of a cold winter in New York, but spring is on the brain and in my heart as cheery colors call my name and daydreams are made up of raised garden beds, seedlings, sketches of a French inspired pea gravel patio and freshly juiced watermelon and cucumber juice [a bit random, yes, I know].

This year's crop is going to include some of the standard summer vegetables, more hearty leafy greens that will take us well into the fall, a variety of herbs, sunflowers and a pumpkin patch - the latter really is going to happen this year.

As these plans grow, we're researching greenhouses and whether a smaller indoor version will be sufficient or a larger outdoor unit is required. Then I think, why research this at all when my heart is whispering,  'Plant an abundant crop.'