The Artist in Me

Working Off The Flow

2011-12-01T12:39:00.009-05:00

I have been honored to be a part of a group of friends that I so affectionately call my family!

There is no coincidence that I am occupying this space at this moment in my life. No, I am not the booming business owner, wife, mother or billionaire (yes, I said billionaire!) that I am going to be yet, but I am learning some valuable lessons in this stage of life.

Character Building
I am beginning to understand that this is the foundation to ever good thing....my character...my good character...my integral character! A character that understands that my word is only as valuable as the action that is taken to make that word come into fruition.

Taking Lessons From a "Miracle Fruit"
There is a tiny little berry that has become popular in the last few years called the "Miracle Fruit" or it's scientific name Synsepalum dulcificum. Although the fruit is flavorless it has amazing properties that psych tastebuds into thinking sour, bitter and spicy tasting foods are really sweet.

Pretty awesome in my book, and gave me a new found way to greet life. Yes, things that we take in are sometimes sour and downright nasty, but we don't have to ingest it that way. In other words, it's not always the trial that makes a trial bad, but how we perceive that particular trial.

We have all heard the saying about lemons that rings true. Lemons don't always have to be sour if we take the time to find out how to make those lemons lemonade!

Self-Esteem
The ugly bouts of low and high self-esteem happen, but do not have to take over!

I admittedly have bouts of both from time to time, and am learning new ways to overcome both. There is a fine line between confidence and arrogance, as well as surety and insecurity. Well, the fine line I want to walk folks! As a matter of fact, I am determined to walk the fine line, not teetering on either extreme. A determination that has a healthy attitude and outlook on who God has really created me to be!

The Best
Simply put..the best is yet to come!

In its blank state

Detail shots

It's coming together quite nicely!

So, thank you Nerd family! You inspire me to press forward more than you know! I love you all!

Pearls of Wisdom:
The great gift of family life is to be intimately acquainted with people you might never even introduce yourself to, had life not done it for you.
~ Kendal Hailey

Be blessed!

Grateful

2011-11-24T12:06:00.005-05:00

I woke up yesterday, and did my normal routine. Then I decided to watch a clip of a show on MTV's "Real Life" called "Losing My Sight". The young folks featured were all born with sight, but for various reasons (accidents & generic diseases), their sight was declining to blindness.

My thought..."WOW! Amongst all of the things that I complain about, I still have my sight. I can still see the brilliant creations of our CREATOR! Who am I to complain?" I immediately got to work! I stretched a canvas before getting in a good word from the house of God.

The world calls this day...Thanksgiving Day! And today, I thought it was only appropriate to let God know just how grateful I am to Him by doing exactly what HE created me for.

Here goes the start of a new painting folks.

It's stretched and primed!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.
~Brian Tracy

Be blessed!

Giving

2011-11-15T17:55:00.002-05:00

This morning I woke up with a song on my mind. The name of the song is, "I Give Myself Away". It made me think a great deal about giving and the giving away of stuff...material things.

I can say that I am a giving person at the core of who I am...giving of my time, giving of my talkent, and giving of my heart. However, sometimes I find it hard to give away material things. Perhaps the thought process is that if I am giving of myself in other areas I should at least be able to keep my stuff; or so I thought until last week.

Last week I was slammed with the unction to give away some of my things (a painting and a pair of shoes to be specific). I know, a pair of shoes out of the 200 pairs or so That I have, and a painting in the arsenal of paintings that I have not sold as of yet is not such a big deal! That is what you are saying right?

In the grand scheme of things...no it does not matter. If I had to be honest though, sometimes giving of my things hurts. I love shoes, and my paintings are like my babies!

Obedience can be a beast, especially when it is something that seems will have you to lose instead of gain. But what I am learning is that there is a things called sowing seed, and reaping a harvest. Yes, this is a biblical system, but works for anyone who decides to use the principle. IBM, Starbucks, and NIKE are all companies that find ways to give back using the principle without being founded on Christian principles.

The system works folks if one works it! So me giving away a pair of shoes and a painting is just the beginning of the process. I am in the sowing phase of my life. Sowing into my business, my financial stability, and my future.

Each time I sow, I am targeting or naming my seed. That means I am naming the harvest that I am looking to grow as a result of planting the seed. As a friend said to me earlier today, what farmer plants a seed and expects nothing to grow as a result of planting that seed? They don't! They plant a particular seed and expect to get the harvest of that particular seed they planted.

I will name the thing (harvest) that I am looking for/expecting each time I give (sow). Therefore, each time I sow I am expecting a tremendous harvest!

What am I looking to expect from the shoes and painting given away? I would say making new connections with artists to start with. Then, selling my pieces, being represented by some galleries, being accepted to some residencies, and eventually opening up my own gallery!

This is only the beginning!!!!!

Later this week:
A painting of a sketch done!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Give, and it will come back to you..pressed down, shaken together and running over!
~KGCM

Be Blessed!

A Rough Few Weeks

2011-09-20T20:18:00.002-04:00

They say what won't kill you will only make you stronger, and I believe I am indeed a bit stronger.

Graham...the sweet, yet tough 90 year old woman that I have blogged about in the past, passed away on the 6th of this month. It was a shocker as I was in the midst of helping a dear friend of mine dealing with the funeral of her father. I was trying to be strong for her....I did my best to do what I needed to do for her and her family. I attempted to stay in the moment, but all I could think about was I was never going to hear her voice again.

The thought was bittersweet. No, she wasn't ill to the point of death, but yes she was tired. She survived all of her 12 siblings, her husband, and her best friends. And although she had us, she was undoubtedly lonely.

So on one hand, I am sure she was happy to go. She did so peacefully. And on the other hand, I will miss her, even though our relationship wasn't what I may have wanted it to be. She loved me, and I loved her. We had a good understanding of one another, but not like a grandmother/grand-daughter relationship. She was a tough cookie, and like so many of the women on my mother and fathers side of the family, lacked an affectionate component.

It's pretty amazing because my mother is and my father was probably some of the most affectionate people that I know. Growing up, I saw that example and have taken it to another level. I am an uber affectionate person. I am comfortable with that now. It's who GOD has made me...a woman with a whole lot of love to give. It's a good thing that my parents have passed down to me. I declare that my husband and I will pass the same down to our children. It's a legacy that will be carried on for generations to come!!!

So, I don't have any new art work to share with you all this evening. I am getting back in the saddle and should have something to share in the next few days. And the journey continues....

Pearls of Wisdom:
A friend who is far away is sometimes much nearer than one who is at hand. Is not the mountain far more awe-inspiring and more clearly visible to one passing through the valley than to those who inhabit the mountain?
~Khalil Gibran

#7 - City Hall Complete

2011-08-27T20:08:00.005-04:00

City Hall is complete!!!

I got so involved in this piece, and the detail once again pulled me in. This is by far the piece that I have spent the most time completing since I have started this project. I put it down and picked it back up a few times. It became a bit daunting sometimes, but I was determined to push and finish. So there you have it, a finished product!

Original picture

Original picture against painting

Finished painting

Thought For The Day
I am learning to be comfortable in the fact that I am ever evolving. I am not the same person that I was 10 years ago, and am not what I will be 10 years from now. That is the cycle we call life, and I am okay with that now! So I say to my journey, "For sure here I come like a tenacious pit bull, ready to get my purpose done!"

Pearls of Wisdom:
"Mankind must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression, and retaliation. The foundation of such a method is love."
~Martin Luther King Jr.

Be blessed!

Complete Winnie the Pooh Mural!

2011-08-17T08:08:00.020-04:00

Good Morning Good People!!! I attempted to post last night, but the exhaustion took me down. Today is a new day, and I am feeling refreshed!!

I read a blog not too long ago that talked about evolving. I thought that it is true that we are constantly evolving...constantly changing...constantly reshaping ourselves (for the better I hope). So I have decided to make a small change in the way that I blog. I love giving you folks an inside peep on what is going on behind my art, and that won't change. A lot of times that means there are some words to read...sometimes more than others. However there is a beauty in words that sometimes captures what the eyes cannot see. I am all about tapping into all of the senses. God gave them to us and I want to use all of them to the best of my ability!

With that said, just the aesthetics of the blog will change a bit. I am going to be adding a My Thoughts For the Day subtitle. A small change, but a change I think will make reading a little easier. I will try it and see if it works...if not, I will change again. After all these years, I realize...change is good!!!

WINNIE THE POOH
mural
is complete

Yes...the mural is complete. When I started the sketches for the mural a few months ago I was so unsure if I would be able to complete the task. As I explained in earlier posts, although I normally work very large, this would be my first mural. If I had to be honest, I was kind of shook. I did a whole lot of praying and asking GOD for wisdom, and HE definitely came through as always. Each time I put my brush to the wall I gained more confidence. I realize that when a task is given, and I know that I am purposed to do it, I must just do it! I recognize that most times I have nothing to lose, and truthfully the fear of "I can't" sometimes pushes me to the point of knowing that "I will...I must!" So, I did, and praise GOD it turned out great. There are definitely things that I would have changed, but there is no room for a perfectionist attitude right now. I am learning to leave well enough alone, and move on to the next projects.

I want to thank Stacy and Byron for believing with confidence that I could complete this awesome task. People from all over will see this, and perhaps ask for my services. I know that it was given as a gift, but you all have given me the best gift ever of allowing me to showcase my abilities! Thank you so much! I love you all and can't wait to see baby Thumper!!!

My thoughts for the Day

I had a pretty amazing epiphany yesterday...I am a very passionate person! Now before you all get to thinking outside of the box that I am putting that word in, let's define the word passionate. It simply means to express or show intense emotions and feelings about a particular thing. Some good synonyms...excitable, zealous, enthusiastic, earnest, and animated...to name a few.

I do! I work passionately, I create passionately, I sing passionately, I write passionately, I live passionately, I laugh passionately, and I love passionately (In the box right now! All my single people understand lol!). That's just a short list, but covers so much. I simply am a passionate person. I see that as a good thing, and make no excuses for it. It means that each day I attempt to do things to the best of my ability! I am grateful to GOD for allowing me to be passionate about life period! It keeps me going when I feel I have nothing left to give.

So there you all have it....the new subheading! I pray you all enjoy! I will be updating on the 365 Philly Project next. Have a great day...living and loving on purpose!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
“The more intensely we feel about an idea or a goal, the more assuredly the idea, buried deep in our subconscious, will direct us along the path to its fulfillment.”
~Earl Nightingale

“The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.”
~Mitch Albom

Today take time to listen to the heart of GOD. Be quiet, listen good, and then ask the necessary questions. Once you receive the answer, trust that answer and get to doing what it is you are supposed to do. Do whatever it is with a passion like never before!

Be blessed!

Winnie The Pooh Mural Part 2

2011-08-14T17:05:00.003-04:00

I am having a hard time concentrating. My mind is racing about a hundred miles a minute about much of nothing, but sleep. The funny thing is, I am so exhausted that I am unable to sleep. I mean, I did stay up until after 1am and get up before 7am more days than not last week. It's all catching up with me now. Last night was the last straw, but I had a ball chilling with some really cool people!

So here I am blogging about the Winnie the Pooh mural, which is something that I should have done last week. I managed to finish Piglet, Tigger and the rock that they are all sitting on. Things went rather smooth this go round. I believe that familiarity with the canvas (or wall in this case) helped a lot.

I will be posting pics and a video of the finished product next week!

I will finish up this week. I am looking forward to seeing the finished product.

Random Pic of the Day:

It was pouring this morning as I pulled into the parking lot of church, and this is what I saw. I had to pull back around to make sure I was seeing properly. What child parked their chair in this parking spot? There are odd and random things all over the place if you are looking!!!

There you have it folks...a short and sweet Sunday post!!!! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"The primary joy of life is acceptance, approval, the sense of appreciation and companionship or our human comrades. Many men do not understand that the need for fellowship is really as deep as the need for food, and so they go through life accepting many substitutes for genuine, warm, simple."
~ Joshua Loth Liebman

Be blessed!

#7- City Hall & My Calling!

2011-08-09T22:57:00.000-04:00

Sometimes we spend so much time trying to attain others gifts that we fail to nourish our own. Today I am fully convinced that I was born to be an artist. It's just the truth of the matter. I enjoy doing many things. I admire the gifts of others and if the truth has to be told...have even envied those gifts at times, but I am sure that GOD thought of me as a creative being before I was formed in my Mother's womb. That's real sure huh!

But I do! It's not just a passion or my career, but my calling! I was purposed to create, and share that creativity! I remember as clear as day almost over 10 years ago. I laid across my bed in my one bedroom apartment at the time in Northern Virginia. I sobbed and repeatedly asked GOD who HE made me to be. I asked, over and over what I was created in this world to do. I pleaded for answers. As I drifted off to sleep, Exodus 31:1-6 came to me to read. I read, and learned that GOD was telling Moses the craftsmen that would be building the tabernacle. I was floored, and if there was any doubt what HE said, a friend called and said that he thought about me as he read. He gave me Exodus 35:30-35, which is Moses telling the people what GOD told him in Exodus 31:1-6.

So here I am sharing with the world what I know to be a gift from GOD! My prayer is that you, the one that views and reads this blog can benefit from my gift!

Today's painting is the start of a view of City Hall. I am going to be publishing this post, but will come back to put up finished photos as well in the next few days.

I never understood the buzz about City Hall until a few years ago. It was a place that conducted serious business. A place where one goes to get their birth certificates, marriage licenses, passports, and so forth and so on. I never really took the time to see the beauty in its architecture. It is absolutely amazing! Not only is the structure amazing, but the view of the city from its entrance and exit points are something to marvel at.

There I was with a friend, and decided at that point that I needed to capture that particular time and space to paint as a part of this project.

There you have it!!! Have a great evening!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
“I am here for a purpose and that purpose is to grow into a mountain, not to shrink to a grain of sand. Henceforth will I apply ALL my efforts to become the highest mountain of all and I will strain my potential until it cries for mercy.”
~Og Mandino

Be blessed!

#6 - The Other Side of The Tracks

2011-08-04T22:40:00.005-04:00

I came back from a mini (and I do mean mini) vacation on Monday, and just couldn’t seem to get my bearings straight to paint or blog. I started to catch up on Tuesday with the painting, and just now getting to update you all on what has been going down!

Today’s painting (or more like this weeks painting at this point) is about an area in Philly (6th & American) that used to be thriving warehouses. There are still some up and running, but the majority of them have been closed and abandoned for quite some time.

There is something funny and actually baffling about cities. One street is obviously affluent, and the next block is the total opposite. And I don't care what city you are in...every city has an area such as this. I understand that there is such a thing called gentrification, but really…just less than a hundred yards from one home to the next things look so drastically different? It raises more than a few questions, which I won't go into due to the sake of time (feel free to post your comments).

So I have taken a little bit more of a laid back approach with this painting. I am more of a perfectionist and detail oriented (most of the time), but I will be trying to get loose for the next few paintings.

There you have it folks!!! I must get my beauty rest to get going on my purpose all over again tomorrow!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Coming generations will learn equality from poverty, and love from woes.
~Khalil Gibran

Be blessed!!

#5 - Bridges of Life

2011-07-27T22:23:00.007-04:00

I was slapped in the face by a reality today concerning this project. I was telling a dear sister friend about my plans for this project, which includes of course painting and blogging on a daily basis. No sooner than she stated something like, "Whew that is a lot!" did I think to myself, "I've put the cart before the horse again!"

I reassured her (really myself...lol) that it wasn't an option for me not to do. I have started and stopped so many times that if my life depended on it I would be on a "cooling board". I explained that if a woman who is a wife, mother and career woman can manage to blog daily, so could I.

So here I am attempting to make this thing work! I will paint 365 paintings about the city of Philadelphia, even if it means that it takes me 400 days. I am determined! I wasn't nicknamed tenacious years ago for nothing!!!

Anywho...today's painting subject is the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. I don't have a history on the bridge for you today, although there is much history to be given I am sure.

A bridge by definition is a structure spanning and providing passage over a river, chasm, road, or the like, and a connecting, transitional, or intermediate route or phrase between two adjacent elements, activities, conditions, or the like.

As I read the definition, I thought about life and all of its intricacies. I thought about experiences of the past and how they connect me to my future. I thought about relationships of old and how they make a path for those of new. I thought about how past failed business ventures made way for the success of those businesses I am supposed to have. I thought about financial woes from back in the day that made it possible for me to know that GOD always makes a way. I thought about my sometimes wretched mistakes that helped me to blossom into the woman GOD has me today.

All in all, I understand that there is a purpose for the bridges in life. There are purposes for those things that link you from one journey in life to another. I thank GOD for the bridges, and the people that help make getting over the bridge a smoother process.

For this piece I did a bit of collage at the top. I used tissue paper ripped in strips to create my rendition of the sky at sunset. I decided to use modge podge to secure the tissue paper to the canvas, and painted the image of the bridge on top.

So, there you have it good people! I pray your day was fabulous, and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Do what you know how to do best! The rest, leave for others to do what they do best!!!

Be blessed!

Painting - Winnie The Pooh Mural

2011-07-26T23:35:00.001-04:00

I have accomplished more in this day than I have in a very long time. It just goes to prove that when you wake up determined to do what you are purposed by GOD to do and make HIM the driver, all that needs to falls into place.

I have started painting the Winnie the Pooh mural that I blogged about sketching a few weeks ago. As you all know, for the most part I work on a large scale, but have not done anything as large as a mural before. I would be telling a lie if I said that I wasn't a little nervous about charting new territory.

I had a few challenges in the beginning. I had to get into the grove of things, and there are spots that I definitely need to refine. However, as I painted I took deep breaths, and reminded myself that this is what I am purposed to do...to create, and I can do this!

The start of a beautiful process

Excited to be venturing into new territory

Getting dirty happens...lol, but I wouldn't want it any other way!

I am learning each day to push myself. Today, I pushed myself and the outcome (thank you HOLY SPIRIT) was great!!!!

In the voice of Elmer Fudd, "That's all folks!" Check back tomorrow for more on the series about Philadelphia!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Taking a trek into new territory could be the key that unlocks the successes of your life! What new land will you venture into today?

Be blessed!!!

Painting #4 - The Laborers' Union

2011-07-25T22:26:00.009-04:00

I don't confess to know much about unions...needless to say, I don't belong to one! However, in the past few months I have been hearing more and more about them.

As I drove across Spring Garden a few weeks ago, I looked to my right and stopped almost in my tracks. I pulled over and immediately snapped a shot. The men that sit in their lawn chairs picketing in front of the Bottom Dollar Foods that I sometimes visit, is the image that came to mind. The sign that they hold saying, "Don't shop at Bottom Dollar, they don't support a union."
At that very moment I decided to complete a painting surrounding what I shot a picture of.

It seems that a union is most important to those that stand in need of representation or negotiation on their behalf. In researching I understand that their is bargaining power in unions. They bargain for improved wages, proper complaint procedures, the rules governing hiring, firing and promotion of workers, fair benefits, and improved policies.

In looking at the Laborers' Local Union 57 website, it is evident that they are fighting for all that is listed above. And to me, anyone that is fighting on the behalf of another to make life better for them is okay in my book. Now, I may not always take heed to those that are picketing outside of stores because there is no union in effect. I shop where I can get the best deal for the product that I am looking for. However, I respect what they need to do in order to protect their livelihood.

There you have it! Check back manana for more painting!!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"It was the labor movement that helped secure so much of what we take for granted today. The 40-hour work week, the minimum wage, family leave, health insurance, Social Security, Medicare, retirement plans. The cornerstones of the middle-class security all bear the union label."
~President Barack Obama

Be blessed!!!

Friday Fun!

2011-07-23T23:36:00.003-04:00

So I have decided that I will not be blogging about the series that I am currently doing on Saturday and Sunday. I am keeping those days to post about what I have done during the weekend or not post at all. I am really trying to be disciplined in posting everyday. Sometimes I hit the mark, and sometimes I don't. However, I would like to hit the bulls-eye more than not!

Yesterday I had the pleasure of seeing my first Cirque du Soliel show in NY. It was a birthday gift from a dear friend of mine, and we had a ball!!! The show was great! The performers super gifted to do what they do.

Zarkana cast

Sitting area in the women's bathroom

After the show, we met up with another friend we met at a Stevie Wonder concert a few years ago. Both Mel and I are social butterflies, so it is no wonder that we met another social butterfly (Mari) on the fly..lol!

Hi Maribel and Melissa!

We strolled around the city and grabbed supper from a place on 24 West 45th Street called Karam. The food was great, and the customer service was superb. Marwan (an employee) made suggestions for our entrees, and threw in a sweet treat for us before we left. If you are into Middle Eastern cuisine and looking for someplace spectacular to eat while enjoying the beauty of NY try this place. And for those who are concerned, they do serve Halal meat! Greet the those who are working with a smile and they are sure to return the favor.

Hi Marwan!

After our stop at Karam, we were in the mood for something sweet, but light. We had it mapped out to go to a side vendor that sold Gelato, but stumbled upon a quaint ice cream shop called Steve's. They prepare what they call Craft ice cream, craft coconut cremé, craft frozen sorbet, and craft frozen buch. In fact, it was the word "craft" that had peaked our interest. When asked what craft meant, we were told that the ice cream is homemade, but that they add certain flavors that give their frozen treats an edge. Martina allowed us to taste every flavor that they had available. All of them were tasty, but Mexican Chili Chocolate was the most interesting. It was chocolate ice cream base with chocolate chips, and a burst of heat on the end tail that lays right in the center of your throat. The chill from the ice cream mixed with the heat from the infused chili spice was pretty amazing. I didn't choose that particular flavor as I thought that it would feel as though degrees were added to the sweltering 100 or so day that we had. Instead I took Urban Passion Kombucha (fermented tea) along for the walk. Again, a very pleasant establishment with knowledgeable employees who are willing to go the extra mile for their customers. Check their website out Stevesicecream.com. Oh they are on Twitter and Facebook too!

Martina served us well!

My choice: urban passion kombucha

Thank you Meli, Maribel and New York for a superb experience!

A piece of NY's skyline

Well ta ta for now good people. More about the series on Philadelphia on Monday! Enjoy the rest of your weekend, and be safe out there in this heat!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Do whatever you need to do to stay cool! Check on your elderly neighbors and those that are unable to care for themselves often!

Be blessed!

The Philadelphia Mural Arts Program

2011-07-20T23:16:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of hanging out in the city with a few friends. We met up at a central location, and that central location happened to be next door to the Philadelphia Senior Center at 729 S. 12th Street, where an pretty cool mural resides.

It wasn't hard to figure out that the mural was part of the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, a Program that has been around since 1984. As I began to do a little bit of research, I found that the Program started off as the Anti Graffiti Network. A Network that tried to redirect the destructive mindset of graffiti artists into a constructive mindset by painting murals that various communities in the city could appreciate.

To date, there are over 3,000 murals that have been produced since the Program has started. Not only does the Program beautify the city, but it also gives back to the community by offering art educational programs to local prisons and rehabilitation centers. In addition, they offer job and community service opportunities for those that are re-entering society after being released from prison.

Since I am intrigued by so many of the murals done by artists that collaborate with the Program, I decided to include some of them in my paintings. As stated before, the mural was done at the Philadelphia Senior Center. It was started in September of 2006 by Henry Bermudez and Michelle Ortiz, and finished in May of 2008.

The entire Mural

A section that intrigued me

The Mural Arts Program is truly a great Program! I suggest if you haven't taken the time to go on one of their tours, that you do so immediately! You will learn about the community that surrounds you and perhaps about yourself!

Pearls of Wisdom:
How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.
~George Washington Carver

Take the time today to be compassionate. It is only by the grace of GOD that we too are not in the same predicament.

Be blessed!

#2 - The City of Brotherly Love

2011-07-19T23:08:00.006-04:00

The great city of Philadelphia was deemed the City of Brotherly love by William Penn a little over a century ago (in the 1890's) after the Greek word philos, which means brotherly love. The city may not always live up to its lovely nickname these days, but I am a loving type of person. So I decided to do a painting of the Love sculpture by Robert Indiana in JFK Plaza that gave the Plaza it's famous Love Park nickname.

I speak highly of journaling and writing, and do a lot of it. As I have explained before, it is a space where I am able to be completely me with GOD and provides a safe arena for me to think creatively.

With this painting, I decided to use love letters that I have written as the backdrop. Yes, I am the mushy type who writes love letters to my mate. The mate that is not yet here, but thought of often.

I used glossy Modge Podge to lay the letters down, and to give me the glossy finish I was looking for. I then did a matte paint to paint the actual love scultpure and a permanent pen to write on the sides of the canvas.

There you have it folks! I pray you enjoy this. I will be posting during the week and taking a break during the weekend.

Pearls of Wisdom:
Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.
~Lao Tzu

Be blessed!

The Journey Begins!

2011-07-14T18:40:00.001-04:00

The painting frenzy has begun!

Anyone who knows me, knows that I am super detail oriented when it comes to my art work...my creative endeavors, and this one is no different. I am praying that I didn't bite off more than I can chew. I guess the only person that makes the rules is me, since it is my project.

I have finished the first of 365 paintings today. As I have stated in previous posts, this series is about the city of Philadelphia. I will be touring different parts of the city and depicting them through my creative lens. There will be a fair share of tourist sites, but also parts of the city that are not so glamorous. I would even be willing to take suggestions from you folks!!!

A few weeks ago some friends and myself had a fabulous lunch at Reading Terminal. Reading Terminal has been around since 1897, and one can find anything from produce to hand-made crafts, and everything in between there. I indulged in one of the best turkey sandwiches that I have had in a long time from The Original Turkey. It was fabulous and left me wanting more.

So since Reading Terminal is a staple to the Philadelphia community, I thought why not paint it as the first stop on this journey

.

Random Pic of The Day:
Randomness can be found in anything, and today it is about a strawberry that I bit into that resembled a porker...a pig! At least it did to me...lol!!!

Pearls of Wisdom: "Discipline is based on pride, on meticulous attention to details, and on mutual respect and confidence. Discipline must be a habit so ingrained that it is stronger than the excitement of the goal or the fear of failure." ~Gary Ryan Blair
Determine today to do whatever you are called to do despite the fear of failure that may present itself. After all, fear is just false evidence appearing real!!!

Be blessed!

Daily Doodle

2011-06-21T21:35:00.008-04:00

I admittedly do more written journaling than I do sketch journaling. I suppose because I have been writing in a journal since the age of 9 (which I still have). It is a comfortable place for me. It is a place where now I talk to GOD mostly about everything from what I did to how I am feeling.

One would think sketching is such an easy and fancy free thing, especially for an artist. However, it sometimes is the contrary for myself for reasons that may seem crazy to some. With my work, at my worst my perfectionist behavior takes over, and at my best I am free to let creativity take it's course without over thinking. On my best days, I don't care if that particular sketch is the cremé de la cremé. I sketch, doodle, scribble anything, and it all doesn't matter.

I took the time to doodle today. I doodled exactly how I have been feeling for the past few days.

The writing says this: "In this tangled mess I sometimes weave my hearts intentions radiate with truth and sincerity, and a path ever so small has been made clear so that amidst chaos my purpose and calling can go forth!"

I am determined to go forth with the tenacity GOD has given me to accomplish the big things that HE has set before me.

Journey, here I come full speed ahead, allowing nothing to stop this caboose!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"The artist must summon all his energy, his sincerity, and the greatest modesty in order to shatter the old cliches that come so easily to hand while working, which can suffocate the little flower that does not come, ever, the way one expects."
~ Henri Matisse

Be blessed!

A Winnie The Pooh Themed Room

2011-06-19T18:52:00.007-04:00

I feel so privileged to have the gift of creativity. It is a blessing, and extremely appreciated! Thank you GOD!

Recently some really good friends of mine asked if I would paint a mural in the room of their bundle of joy that is on the way. I was more than happy to oblige, and quite frankly ecstatic that folks are impressed enough with my work to want to commission me.

They are not sure of the sex of the child. Like so many, they have decided to wait until the baby gets here. They are doing a neutral theme, and thus we have, Winnie the Pooh.

I have begun to do my research and start to sketch. This is the first of the preliminary sketches. I decided to do a few simple samples just to try and get a feel for drawing the characters. I
will do other sketches throughout the next upcoming weeks.

There you have it for the day ladies and gentleman!

P.S. - I am starting a new mainstay category in this blog. It may not make every post, but it will be called the Random Pic of The Day. I tend to see recognizable objects in random things. So I thought that it would be nice to share what I see in randomness with you all!

Random Pic of The Day:

As I hydrated my skin the other day, a glob of lotion fell on my foot, and this is what it created. I don't know about you, but it looks like the perfect shape of a leaf to me!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"Welcome every morning with a smile. Look on the new day as another special gift from the CREATOR, another golden opportunity to complete what you were unable to finish yesterday. Be a self-starter. Let your first hour set the theme of success and positive action that is certain to echo through your entire day. Today will never happen again. Don't waste it with a false start or no start at all. You were not born to fail."
~ Og Mandino

Be blessed!

GOD In a Box

2011-06-14T20:55:00.006-04:00

Today I came to the tough realization that I have been guilty of putting GOD in the box a time or two...or maybe three, four or five, or a thousand times over.

And as I pondered, I wondered what good it was doing me to put the Creator of the Universe in a box? Do I not trust that HE who created me is good enough to guide me to the place where I am supposed to be? Am I apprehensive in believing that HE too is aware of the mistakes that I have and will make, and uses even those to allow me to blossom into who HE desires for me to be? Is it the fear of the unknown or the fear that HE will not make good on HIS promises? Is it my allowance of others reflections of their relationship with GOD to skew my own?

All these questions and more I mulled over, and here are a few things I was given.

Everything is par for the course:
With GOD, there are no coincidences! In fact, everything that we go through life is able to be used and learned from. Where I am at the present moment was ordained by GOD. Good or bad, beautiful or ugly, productive or non-productive...it (all that comes with life) is par for the course.

It's for someone else:
Although not always fair, the trials that we often go through are not about us. Often the things that we go through (for better or for worse) are about being an example for someone else. I look at it as a "how to" or "how not to" gauge. And speaking for myself, I know I have been used to serve as both to others. The reality is, people are not only looking at my trials, but more importantly how I respond to my trials. Am I going to handle them with poise and grace, with a smile on my face or am I going to buck the process?

The process is just as important as the final product:
As the famous saying goes, "Rome wasn't built in a day." As a matter of fact, in doing a minimal amount of research, it seems that the Roman Empire lasted approximately from 27 BC to 476 AD, depending on the historian. That means that it lasted for 503 years. If it lasted for 503 years, it is very likely that it took over 100 years to reach its peak. So to me that means that the process is almost more important than the final product. If I don't take time to get the process correct, how well is the final product going to be? There is no sense in rejoicing in the product being complete only for the final product to fall apart because the planning stages were poor.

GOD'S timing is superior to my own:
GOD thinks on a totally different wave length as a human being...me! Therefore, things don't happen the way I desire them to all the time, and much for my benefit (whether I recognize it as such or not). I am a simple being, where GOD is complex. I see things on the surface with my natural eyes, where GOD has the ability to see far beyond what's visible. I am only able to be in one place at a time, where GOD is everywhere at once. GOD has insight to my future, where at best I am blessed to be given a glimpse from HIM.

The bottom line...it's time to take GOD out of the box in my mind. It's time to free HIM from the confining four walls that stifle HIM. HE has created me to be exactly who I am, at this moment, for this moment, and I trust that this moment is preparing me for the next!

Ta ta for now!

Prelim sketch for a painting!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"Any existence deprived of freedom is a kind of death."
~ Gen Michel Aoun

Be blessed!

I Won't Say

2011-06-12T16:09:00.007-04:00

I won't say, "What I will..." or "What I won't..." do this go round. I will just create and post, create and post, and create and post, and so on and so forth. You get the hint!

I won't make any grandiose promises. I have come to realize (although with the best intentions at heart) that I can't always (nor do I always want to) live up to my promises. Sometimes we make promises that we think we can fulfill when we make them, later to find out that we can't make good on them or don't even want to make good on them. We as humans are super fickle, and for as much as I may hate it, I am no exception to the rule.

What I will say is that for today, I am blogging. For today, I am displaying my work. For today, I am confident that I am on this journey of creative discovery for a grander purpose than myself. For today, I am living life with no hesitation, but choosing to live and love. For today, I am able to express myself through the plethora of mediums that GOD has provided. For today, I intend to use those mediums to express the world of thoughts that swirl in my head that I am not always able to express verbally. For today, I feel free...free to be me, with no restrictions and no restraints!

What's been up in the last few months?

Life and all of its nuances! Ministry has taken precedence over all else in these past months. It should...at its core essence it is living life doing all the things I am purposed to do...even art. I have been painting and sketching (some images in this post), but I haven't been making much jewelry. I have been growing a massage therapy business, and helping to manage a program that serves as a positive outlet for inner city youth. I have been learning the fine art of balance!!!

Why haven't I blogged?

Honestly, I had become a tad discouraged! I know in previous posts I have mentioned that I am blogging to catalog this creative journey, but the reality is, it doesn't hurt to know that somewhere in this space that we call Earth that there are people that are interested in your journey. A "Whoo rah!", "Keep up the good work!", "Excellent job!", serves well as a morale booster. Even a, "I hate this piece!", "This is not my favorite.", or "Maybe try this..." serves as a good critique tool, and is better than nothing.

What's next?

Ha ha ha! Who really knows in this insanely multifaceted world of mine! What I intend to do though is to do a 365 day study of the city of Philadelphia. I am hoping to start the first of July or at the latest the first of August. I will photograph different parts of the city and do the daily drawings, painting or mixed media pieces from those photographs. I don't expect the pieces to be very large as I will be attempting to create one on a daily basis.

There you have it! I pray you all will dive into this sea of wonderful possibilities called "my creative journey" with me. It's much appreciated!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Obstacles are like wild animals. They are cowards but they will bluff you if they can. If they see you are afraid of them, they are liable to spring upon you; but if you look them squarely in the eye, they will slink out of sight"

~ Orison Swett Marden

Teapot 2

2011-02-17T12:11:00.003-05:00

I was super spent after getting home at about 2am on Tuesday morning. I was spending time singing in worship to the LORD with some friends of mine.

However, I knew that I needed to get some more done on this project, and below is where I have gotten so far. In the last post I did some outlining of the design. This go round, I painted the outline, and mapped out some other embellishments to add to make the pot more interesting, all of which I will show in the next post.

Phase 2: The painting of the outline

In the next post, you will see the embellishments that I came up with to add. Until then, have a blessed day!!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"In the confrontation between the stream and the rock, the stream always wins; not through strength, but through persistence." ~Author Unknown

Be blessed!

Teapot

2011-02-13T11:34:00.001-05:00

The teapot that I spoke of last week is coming along quite well.

Last week I got the chance to outline my design on the teapot and started to paint the design. The design that I decided to go with is a modified paisley. It doesn't look so paisley at the moment, but by the time I finish putting on the smaller details it will.

The gold color that I decided to use is proving to be a great color. It is looking like it will pop off of the purple quite well.

Stage I: Outlining the design

I will be posting again quite soon to keep you updated! Until then, have a great day!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Permanence, perseverance, and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragement, and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak." ~Thomas Carlyle

Be blessed!!!

Cleaning House

2011-02-07T23:59:00.007-05:00

Last week, I took the time to clean some necessary house!!! I don't really like to admit this, but I hadn't been in my studio for like 6 months prior to last week. I go through spells where I feel like I just need to spend time working at my work desk in my room. And when I do this, my studio gets totally neglected.

So last week I started the massive cleaning, which included spiderwebs, and lots of dead cricket parts. It wasn't really something that I wanted to do off hand. I tend to do almost all of my painting (especially larger projects) in my studio. Since I have been asked to do a project that will take place later this month, I was forced to get in the groove and get in the studio. Once I get into the swing of things, I really enjoy being there. I actually look forward to being there.

The project that I have been asked to do is for a tea for a Co-Pastor of a church in Harrisburg. My aunt commissioned me to paint a teapot, but gave me free reign as to the design. I decided to use colors that signify royalty (purple and gold) for the pot and a blue-grey background color.

Here is what I have come up with so far. I will be doing the design tonight and hopefully finishing this piece come the end of the week.

The beginning of what may be an elaborate pot

Stay tuned to see the final outcome. I may be doing a bit more posting this week in order for you all to see the progress of the project. Caio until next time!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness. ~Martin Luther King Jr.

Be blessed!

Knitting & Crochetting Frenzy

2011-01-25T19:14:00.005-05:00

Hello Folks!

It is hard to believe that we are about to enter into February! It seems like we just finished celebrating the new year.

The last time I posted I told you all I had lots of projects on the horizon. Almost all of those projects have to do with either knitting or crocheting. A sister-friend of mine and I were blessed by a wise woman a few weeks ago (thanks Minister Pat). She showed us how to read a pattern.

Those that know me know that I am not really one to follow patterns (I don't have much patience). I would much rather figure things out as I go. However, a few years back, a boss of mine gave me a book of simple crochet patterns. I saw a cowel that I had to have, and thought that this would be the perfect time to attempt to make it.

I started it about 2 weeks ago, and have picked it up when time permitted. It doesn't quite resemble the picture. I didn't follow the pattern to the T because it would have been too small. I have a big head. Oh and, don't always believe when a garment says "one size fits all" because what they really mean is "one size fits most"! I also didn't use the same colors or the same yarn. I couldn't find the yarn that they wanted me to use, and those that were comparable were way too expensive. So I opted for an acrylic yarn that was pretty weighty. All in all, I believe that it will turn out to be good regardless.

This is what the finished product is supposed to look like from the pattern

This is what I have got thus far. I will keep you all updated on the outcome next week! Until then, be safe in what ever sort of weather you are bearing!

My incomplete version thus far

Pearls of Wisdom:

"You can tell whether a man is clever by his answers. You can tell whether a man is wise by his questions." ~ Naguib Mahfouz

Take the time to listen and ask the pertinent questions that will give the person you are asking the answers they are unknowingly seeking.

Be blessed!

100th Post!

2011-01-12T16:49:00.008-05:00

It took a while for me to get here, but I have reached my 100th post!!!!!!!

I thought that I was going to be able to keep up with ministry, businesses (art and massage therapy), a social life, and post daily! I crack myself up, and for sure haven't been able to do so for long periods of time. However, what I am able to do is post on a weekly basis, letting you all know what I have been up to creatively.

So today, although I have been working on knitting some scarfs this week for presents, I wanted to focus on artwork of some others.

These pieces are from some children that are in my life. Their sketches/drawings are absolutely amazing, and done with no fear whatsoever. It always amazes me that adults are sometimes afraid to do things due to what others may think, and children are simply fearless! They don't care if you like what they have created or not. All they are concerned with is transcribing what they see in their heads onto paper or whatever medium they are working with. As the quote states, they dance like no one is watching, love like they'll never get hurt, sing like no one is listening, and live like heaven is right here on Earth.

Maya has already started to develop a style that she likes. Can we say a future cartoonist, story board writer or children's book artist! The possibilities are endless!!! (I apologize for the position of the 2nd pic. Blogger is uploading funny these days)

Drew draws from what he sees, and decided to take it to the next level do a bit of collaging!

Today, I pray that you take lessons from a child! They are exquisitely resilient in many ways adults are not. They bounce back in minutes, if not seconds! Talk to you all next week!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching, love like you'll never be hurt, sing like there's nobody listening, and live like it's heaven on Earth."

~William W. Purkey

Be blessed!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-04T22:14:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year Folks!

If you are reading this post right now, you are truly blessed to see not just another day, but yet another year! WHEW WHEW!!!!

I must admit, this has been one of the best vacations that I have had in a long time. I spent lots of time with family and friends, and things were relaxing and peaceful. And to boot, everyone was so generous, and I don't just mean with monetary gifts. People took the time to give of themselves unselfishly...looking to be blessings to others instead of worrying about themselves. It made me so joyful!

Since I last blogged, I have been working on a few things other than jewelry. The latest is an invitation that I designed and created for my mentee's (more like my little sister) baby shower. It is hard to believe that the one that I have seen grow up and mature is about to have a little one of her own. I got the opportunity to sit and talk with her and the young man (who I also saw grow up) yesterday. Although I may have chosen a different path for them, and desired for them to wait to have children, I am so very proud of them. They really have their heads on straight. They both are in school, and have set things in order to insure that they will be able to finish school once the baby gets here. So I say...I love you Sakora and Andrew!

I really wanted to do something creative for them. I thought about how special a new baby is, and decided to play off of that. For the actual card, I ended up sketching out a mailbox and adding the U.S Postal service emblem. I decided to change the colors to suite the colors of the shower. I did a cut out on the top layer and added the wording on another piece of card stock and attached it to the top layer.

My crazy looking workspace while working on this project

The front of the card. I didn't show the inside because there is personal info there. However, it pulls down where it says pull...LOL!

While I liked the card, I was super excited about the envelope. I wanted to give it an old package feel, and decided to use brown paper bags. I got some string and wrapped the bag to look like an old school package.

The envelope. Not sure why it registered as vertical instead of horizontal, but you get the drift :)

So there you have it. A card for the special delivery that shall soon be here!

I look forward to posting later this week. I am getting lots done, and am chomping at the bit to share with you all! Until then....

Pearls of Wisdom:

As a single footstep will not make a path on the earth, so a single thought will not make a pathway in the mind. To make a deep physical path, we walk again and again. To make a deep mental path, we must think over and over the kind of thoughts we wish to dominate our lives. ~Henry David Thoreau

Be blessed!

It's Almost Christmas

2010-12-23T12:59:00.006-05:00

It is hard to believe that Christmas is almost here already! It seems like the summer was just arriving, and now we see snowflakes (which aren't necessarily my favorite).

During this season my prayer is that we never forget why we celebrate Christmas. It's the birth of the Ultimate Gift, Christ, that allows us to even enjoy the gifts that we give each other. Remember those that are less fortunate than yourself, and be mindful that things could always be worse. And if you don't have the dinero to buy a gift, give the best free gift out there....LOVE!

Today's or this weeks creative venture is a charm bracelet. I made it last week, before I had some other things I needed to get done, which I will be blogging about next week!

The chains and charm pieces are from various necklaces and bracelets. It is surprisingly light, as the charms are hollow, and it gives the pleasant jingle as charm bracelets often do. It seems like charm bracelets are the fad these days, and the last one I created went faster than the smell of flatulence on a windy day...LOL! It is a tad difficult for me to find the charms and chains from different sources that I believe work well together, and these happen to.

Again folks, I pray you all have a wonderful Christmas day! Be safe in your travels, and try to enjoy the predicted snowy weather!

Pearls of Wisdom:

This holiday season as you celebrate with family and friends may you remember the King of kings and His Kingdom. For the freedom and liberty He has freely given to us all is the true reason for the season! ~The Edmondson Family

Be blessed!!!

Honing In On Other Skills

2010-12-16T20:56:00.006-05:00

This week I have been focusing on honing in on my sewing skills. I am not the perfect sewer yet, but I am looking forward to being able to sew some things that I have been wanting to wear.

So today's creation is a jean skirt that I made out of an old pair of jeans. Ha! I guess I am still in the same vain...finding something old, and making it new! But really, I was excited about this one. I have been wanting to do this for quite some time.

The pair of jeans I purchased a long time ago...let's say 7 years ago. I had to either throw them away or finds something to do with them as they were starting to get holes. And you all know me, I am always looking for ways to make old things fabulous again!

As you can see, they are sort of utility like (they have the carpenter look at the bottom, and in the back), but that is what gives them such great character! I decided to leave the buttons on at the bottom to allow the skirt to remain super long, and to keep the flare. I opened up the seams in the middle, closed the front, and stitched it back together. I needed to do a little bit of hand stitching at the bottom to avoid from breaking or changing the needle on my machine.

I picked out fabric that I absolutely love. I got the fabric a while ago, but didn't know what to use it for. I didn't notice that the pattern was a leaf motif at first, but I like it anyway! I sewed the fabric on the back of the skirt to fill in the gap that was left from opening the seam, and then sewed the bottom to match up with the skirt, and VIOLA...we have a skirt!!!

Front of the skirt

Back panel with fabric. I used the same fabric for my journal!

Me, after rocking my skirt to a Christmas party with my church fam! I love you guys!

I have been super lazy about taking before pics of things, and I do apologize. I will do so for the next creation I will be making very shortly.

Have a great weekend! If it's snowing or hailing or anything of the sort where you are, please take your time and be careful!

I look forward to updating you on more creative adventures next week!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Honing in on different endeavours can expand your horizons for the passions of life! Wet your appetite for something different, and try something new!!!

Be Blessed!

Doing It Afraid!

2010-12-08T10:49:00.004-05:00

Last night I had the privilege of speaking in front of my class members. I was shaking in my boots...afraid. These are all people that I admire for their various gifts, talents and strengths, and I was just sheer nervous.

A friend of mine told me not too long ago though, if it something that you know that you are supposed to do, just do it afraid! That was later confirmed by another friend, and I took it to mean that this is something that I must simply get used to...just doing it afraid!

Last night, I did it afraid, and praise the LORD, things went well!

I am starting to realize that it is only me that stands in the way of my success. I guess I fall into the category of those that are more afraid of success, than failure...although I have had my moments of being in limbo between the two.

So creatively, I was able to get another pair of earrings made. I made them late last week, but was unable to get them posted due to other obligations. The round gilded pewtered like bronze piece is from a bracelet, and the hanging chain from a necklace. Neither of the pieces were broken when I received them, but I wanted to add my little flair to them, as usual :)

The original bracelet

New pair of earrings! I'm into the chains people!

I also made a bracelet out of the same pieces. I have a few finishing touches to put on it, and then I will post.

Pearls of Wisdom:

If you are called to do it, DO IT AFRAID!!! A little nerves is not a bad thing. It shows the value of the MASTERS strength, and not your own!

Be blessed!

Definition Of A Friend

2010-12-02T22:59:00.007-05:00

It's rare that you have friends that have the ability to tell you just how it is, whether that "is" is lovely or not so great. They care about your feelings and take measures to make sure that they express their care for you in a multitude of ways. They are honest and although the truth they state may hurt, they are looking out for your best interest...always.

I am truly blessed to have an arsenal of friends that have my back. They speak the truth in love and desire to see me flourish to what God desires.

Thank you all for being who you are! My prayer is that I give and sow into you as much as you give and sow into me.

Today's creation is two pairs of earrings. I decided to show them in the same entry since they are so similar. Both pairs derived from a broken necklace. With a little bit of handy work, I was able to salvage some of the pieces. These four pieces ended up being earrings. I don't normally go the bling bling route, but knew I couldn't allow these pretty pieces to go to waste.

I arranged the pieces differently to create two different pieces!

I do pray that you all enjoy, and continue to make this artistic journey with me. Thanks, and have a great evening. Until next time...

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Much of the vitality in a friendship lies in the honouring of differences, not simply in the enjoyment of similarities." ~Anonymous

Be blessed!

And The Winner Is...

2010-11-28T17:12:00.006-05:00

Hey beautiful people!

I decided to video blog this entry. It has taken me some time, but I finally have gotten to choose the winner of a piece of jewelry for the quarter.

AND THE WINNER IS.....

PATSY

Patsy blogs about her artwork over at heARTwork (www.patsypat.blogspot.com)! She does some really good stuff while keeping the mindset of Christ! Congratulations Patsy! I will be sending you a follow up email.

So there you have it folks. I pray that you all have had a fabulous Thanksgiving, and I look forward to sharing some more creations this week!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Remember to give thanks for all things large and seemingly small daily. Your small may be someones large!

Be blessed!

Truth Is...

2010-11-16T16:42:00.007-05:00

The truth is, there have been times where I wished I was someone other than who I am. Perhaps a queen on a remote island, a traveler of many lands who speaks a multitude of languages, a wife with a plethora of children, or even living the glamorous life, withholding none of my goodness unto men.

After brief daydreams, the simple truth is that I am who I was created to be. I am well equipped to reign on this throne that I have been given at this moment, moments to come, and decades more. And when my reign has come to an end, I will have left a legacy for my children to pass on. One that will accomplish even greater things that I have! And then, I will have lived the glamorous life, one that withheld no good thing!

So, I have decided to make another pair of earrings. I have to say, I enjoy making earrings the most. I like the challenge of making two things look exact, and the therapeutic comfort that comes along with repetition.

The square piece came from either a bracelet or a belt. I can't quite remember and to my dismay, I did not take photos of the original piece from the purchased broken lot of jewelry. I took it's original studs off, and replaced them with pearls. I re-strapped them on with wire, and hung chain from the necklace I used to make the earrings I posted about last.

I took off the studs and replaced them with pearls

The finished product!

There you have it! I pray you all have a great day filled with endless possibilities that only your creativity plugged into the Creative Source could bring!

Pearls of Wisdom:

You don't need to know where God is taking you. You just need to know what to do next, and then the next things after that. Enjoy each moment with Him, allowing Him to guide your every step! ~Someone other than myself, with my tweek :)

Be blessed!

Back In The Swing of Things

2010-11-15T19:14:00.004-05:00

It's been a rough few weeks, but thank the Lord, I am back in the swing of things!

Today's creation I have been thinking about for a few weeks. Although I didn't sketch it out in my journal, I sketched it out plenty of times in my head. The execution was pretty effortless, and the finished product was what I hoped it would be.

The main oval shaped piece hails from a belt that was purchased from a broken lot of jewelry. The chain pieces came from a necklace that was in the lot of jewelry given to me by one of my mentors.

The original necklace

The finished product!

So there you have it folks! I look forward to keeping you all abreast of the creative things that are on the horizon!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Art is beauty, the perpetual invention of detail, the choice of works, the exquisite care of execution." ~Theophile Gautier

Be blessed!

November Already?

2010-11-10T00:38:00.005-05:00

Hola Compadres! It is hard to believe that we have passed the fall months and are now approaching old man winter. I wasn't particularly fond of last winter. I had to do much of the shoveling (by choice). Who in the world would have their 60 year old mother outside shoveling snow by herself. That would be oh so cruel.

Anywho, it's been more than a week since I have blogged last. Last week was extremely busy. I spent most of my time editing close to 200 pictures for my friends that are expecting twins. I was going to bed at approximately 3am and waking up at about 7am. Then, I danced at a baby shower on Saturday and sang until I could sing no more on Sunday.

Since the last time I blogged, I have had many great things take place. A mentor of mine gave me plenty of broken jewelry that I will be able to put in my arsenal of products. Thanks Sis. Naffessa! I may have gained a few customers as a result of my friends baby shower I attended. People were really pleased with their photos and inquired about having theirs taken.

So, that is what has been going on amongst a few other things!

Today's creation is a ring. This is actually something that I was sort of re-vamping. My mentor was in love with the ring and didn't want to give it away, but wasn't happy with it beginning to tarnish. I decided to burnish the edges where it was tarnishing to bring out the copper tone that was underneath the plated silver. It's now a copper accented ring.

The copper undertone makes the petal like structure pop!

I was glad to be able to make this ring new for it's owner. It just goes to show that sometimes you don't have to get rid of old things, but just have a mind to restore them to fit what you want them to be for you today!

Have a great evening! Until next time....

Pearls of Wisdom:

Let's make sure that we are looking at the treasure in what some call trash. Underneath it all, you might just find a gem!

Be blessed!

Keeping Busy

2010-10-27T23:40:00.006-04:00

The last couple of days have been wonderful! I haven't had the chance to blog, but have been working still.

I have been wanting to make a skirt out of some jeans for quite some time now, and I have finally leaped off the ledge to do so. I have opened up the hems and started to pin back together. I will be starting to sew in the next day or so.

I have also been doing some knitting. I like to knit or crochet a scarf or two every fall season. I have mastered the scarf, and may be looking to start a project that is not linear soon.

Today's creative piece is a pair of earrings. I liked those other pearl and chain earrings that I made a few weeks ago so much, I decided to make another pair. This go round I decided to use both regular and green pearls. And instead of having pearls dangling from the bottom, I decided to have a single pearl dangling in the middle of the triangle made with the chains at the top. As with the other earrings, the chains were previously a broken belt.

Green has been my color of choice this season

NEWS:
I have decided to still give away free jewelry to those that are commenting. I will be doing so quarterly instead of monthly because I don't have a whole bunch of folks commenting. However, I will be choosing a name to send free jewelry to for the month of September.

I pray you all have a wonderful evening, and until we meet again....ta ta!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for." ~William Shedd
Likewise, our gifts are safe if we keep them for ourselves, but that is not what our gifts are for. Share your gifts today. Your gift may be the driving force to change someones world!

Be blessed!

Alternate Creative Ventures

2010-10-18T19:50:00.000-04:00

Today I digressed a bit from jewelry to take a bit of time with Buddy. Buddy (for those that are not aware) is my camera.

I love photography, especially black and white photography. To me it tells a story that has occurred in a still moment. Much like visual art of various kinds, it leaves room for the viewer to have some creative license.

So today, I was more than happy to help a couple of friends of mine tell the story of birth. They will soon be welcoming two beautiful babies into this world. I am honored to help them celebrate and create memories!

Congratulations Lori and Rashaan! I love you all!

We will be blessed by your presence twins!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Everyone knows that by far the happiest and universally enjoyable age of man is the first. What is there about babies which makes us hug and kiss and fondle them, so that even and enemy would give them help at that age?

~Desiderius Eramus

Babies are gifts given to us by God. It is His ultimate display of love through and for us!

The Bracelet-Part 3

2010-10-17T19:38:00.005-04:00

TADA! Here you have it folks! The unveiling of the bracelet that I have been working on for the past few days last week.

I chose to pair the delicate crushed pearl center with a rather bulky chain so I could stay with the theme of the pieces I have been doing. The clasp is the original clasp that went with the belt I took the center piece from.

I hope you all like! I am looking forward to using the center piece of this belt for other projects (hairpin and necklace for starters).

Pearls of Wisdom:

Good things come to those who wait! What is it good that you are waiting for?

Be blessed!

The Bracelet - Part 2

2010-10-14T22:23:00.006-04:00

Hey Folks!

Well, it's day two of this bracelet journey. I explained that these few blog entries would be short as this week is extremely hectic.

So today, I decided to take some pearls and smash them into pieces. I started off with a mix of a purple and off white pearl. I love the colors, but it wasn't contrasting enough with the metal belt piece. Instead, I decided to use a mixture of dark and light green pearls. Although I have been using a lot of green, the contrast here was greater.

A close up of the first set of pearls I crushed.

There you have it good people. I look forward to showing you the next couple of days of this project. Have a wonderful and safe evening!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse gift will find a fitting place."

~ Margaret Mead

Be blessed!

A Slow Start

2010-10-12T23:38:00.007-04:00

As I spoke of yesterday, I am starting a new bracelet!

There are a couple of steps that I will be doing to create this bracelet, so I thought that I would blog in segments. The segments will keep each blog entry this week short and sweet, but also build some excitement for you at the end of the week.

So, I got the base for this bracelet at a thrift store in Southern Jersey called Villiage Thrift. It was a chain belt with a native american motif pieces fit into where a cobechan would noramally be. I liked the wooden painted pieces, but thought I would like to put something else in that space. I popped out the pieces and took off the metal pieces that created the chain.

I was left with one metal piece that I needed to bend in order for it to form to the wrist. I then chose out the type of chain I wanted to use.

The belt I took apart. If you look to the left you will see it's original clasp, which I will use in the new bracelet!

I popped out the piece in the middle. At the bottom you will see the empty metal piece and at the top you will see the pieces popped out.

Tomorrow I will be crushing some pearls to put in the center of the metal piece. Have a wonderful evening/morning yall!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"If we focus on being some other place because we think it's better, then we will neither enjoy where we are nor do what we must to succeed." ~ John C. Maxwell

Before you take a gander at the grass on your neighbor's lawn, are ou the best you can be where you are? Are you taking the time to enjoy where you are now, and are you doing what you need to do in the space you are now to succeed in the future?

Be blessed!

Cheat Day 2

2010-10-11T23:47:00.005-04:00

Hola Compadres!

I am taking the liberty to have a cheat day today. Today was busy, and this upcoming week will prove to be the same. Although I have a cheat day today, this week I will be working to create a bracelet. The project will probably take me all week, so I will be showing you all the progress of the bracelet each day. It's a little more detailed than some of the other jewelry I have made.

So today's creation was made about a year ago. At that time I was not in the same vain as I am now. I was still using natural gems, but I was into making daintier pieces. None of the pieces used to make this bracelet were found. By the time I made this piece, I was pretty fast at making these types of items. It may have taken me about 4 hours total.

Goodnight good people!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Find something that you love to do, and get to doing it! You would be surprised how it relieves you of your everyday stressors!

Be blessed!

A Beautiful Mess!

2010-10-07T13:15:00.005-04:00

Dictionary.com defines mess as, "to busy oneself without purpose or plan; work aimlessly or halfheartedly; putter, to waste time; loaf, to meddle or interfere; to involve or associate oneself (esp. for immoral or unethical purposes)".

As I thought about this definition and the recent work I have been doing with broken, found, and unwanted jewelry...I thought of myself. I can identify with the definition of mess...I've been a mess, and still am at times. However, what I realize is that what is seen as a mess to some is absolutely beautiful in the eyes of GOD. So today, I am grateful to be a beautiful mess, working to be all that I was created to be!!!!

Truthfully, I see the broken, found and unwanted jewelry much the same. It's a mess when I get it...torn, cracked and burned, amongst other things. However, what a awesome thing to be able to turn something tattered into something stunning. Being able to see the outcome, is priceless!

So today's bracelet comes from so many different sources. I posted a while back about some earring that I was trying to make out of a bracelet a friend gave me. The project didn't work so well as earrings, but was perfect as part of a toggle. I burnished the other end so it would match. I saw so much potential in these charms on a dress a friend gave me. The dress fared well without them too! I took the jump rings off a broken belt, and the chain is from another piece of broken jewelry from the lot I purchased weeks ago.

The bracelet, and part of the finished toggle

The other part of the toggle, and the mess of a belt I got the jumprings from

The dress I got the charms from. Can you see where they were?

Vwala...there you have it! A new piece of jewelry to be worn! You folks have a great day, and I look forward to posting more!

Front view Side View

Front and back view

Pearls of Wisdom:

LOVE HIMSELF loves mess...including me and you!

Be blessed!

More than Jewelry

2010-10-05T23:18:00.003-04:00

If you would have asked me years ago if I thought that I would be making jewelry, my answer would have been no. I don't even know how I got into jewelry making, but now find that I am coming into my own on that front.

If you have met me in the last few years you would think that I just make jewerly, and that could be the furthest from the truth. The truth is, I like to use a multitude of mediums. I like to use whatever material is going to get my thoughts across to others. That medium may be a pencil, pen, paint, via camera, sand, rice, trash...pretty much anything that you could think of.

So today's creative thought comes from a card that I made for a friend that is doing the Susan G. Komen 3 day walk. I decided to actually make the card instead of buying one, and this is what I came up with. Of course I used a sneaker because she will be walking, and I used the color pink because of the cancer walk. I doubled up on some string to make the shoe-laces, and a silver pen to do a bit of details.

The card coming out of its envelope

I thought she would like a fun envelope, so I made that too!

That's it for this evening everyone! I pray that you have a wonderful evening and look forward to more creations tomorrow!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." ~ Scott Adams

Be blessed!

Taking Care of Business

2010-10-01T00:53:00.006-04:00

Today was another productive day. I managed to take care of the business that I set out to handle today.

Today's earrings are quite simple. The top piece is from a bracelet, and the bottom piece is from a belt. They both hail from the broken lot that I purchased about a month ago.

There you have it for the day folks...a simple and easy post! Enjoy your weekend!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." ~ Leonardo Da Vinci

Be blessed!

Grateful For Simple Things!

2010-09-28T21:06:00.006-04:00

What a great day! There was nothing in particular that happened, but it has just been a great day! To be alive is great! To have great health is great! To be in right mind is great! To have a phenomenal family (including biological, friends, and spiritual) is great! To be able to see, hear, smell, taste, love, laugh, cry, and feel (among other things) is GREAT!!! I think we often bypass the simple things in life and look for the complicated luxuries. The truth is, simple things become beautiful luxuries when you remain grateful for them!

So, in my gratefulness, today I was thankful that I am still in my creative niche. Thank YOU LORD that you continue to give me a plethora of ideas daily. Thanks for my grind that I always strive to give back to YOU!!!

Creativity brings about another chandelier necklace today. This was another piece that I made last week, but did not have the time to post about. The chain portion is was a broken belt. The bottom chandelier portion is from a broken bracelet that I decided to cut to get the effect you see. The square wavy stones are green serpentine, and the small round stones are semiprecious rulite quartz. I am partial to this piece. I have been looking for a way to use these particular green serpentine stones for a while, and now was the perfect time.

It's green serpentine!!!!!!

Well...ta ta for the evening folks. I have some cooking to finish for tomorrow's dinner, and studying to do for next weeks class.

Pearls of Wisdom:

As I grew older, I realized that it was much better to insist on the genuine forms of nature, for simplicity is the greatest adornment of art. ~ Albrecht Durer

Be blessed!

A Six Day Lull

2010-09-27T15:16:00.005-04:00

It's been 6 days since I posted last. I knew that to be about the case when I blogged last week and said I had a busy week ahead. Although I didn't blog, I completed a few new projects, and started on a few others.

Today's post short and sweet is featuring a hair clip. I have been wanting to make hair clips for a while, but wasn't finding the right base material. Well, I found something that works pretty well at the moment. The medallion piece is from a broken belt, and I have placed some rhinestones on the base of the clip to match the jazz of the piece on top. I planned on wearing it to a dedication ceremony that was held for my uncle Den Den yesterday, but it didn't work with my outfit. So I ended up taking a pic of it for your viewing pleasure today!

I love the sparkles!!!

Here is an idea of what it looks like on

I am back, and I don't foresee another lull of this magnitude for a while. So, let's keep it moving!!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"We're never so vulnerable than when we trust someone but paradoxically, if we cannot trust, neither can we find love or joy." ~ Walter Anderson

Be blessed!

This Week

2010-09-21T22:12:00.004-04:00

Today, like the rest of this week was extremely busy. I won't complain though. As a matter of fact, it is a blessing that I am busy with purpose!!!

Because of that, this week I may be showing some things that I didn't necessarily make on the particular day that I am blogging. As with usual "cheat" days, it will be something that I has not been seen on the blog.

So today's piece was made a few weeks ago. I took this piece to the piazza as well. This was the start of me making "chunky" jewelry, and I would dare to say that this is the chunkiest of them all..lol! This piece wasn't actually "found" or "broken" jewelry, but purchased pieces with my vision in mind. The stones are serpentine and the chains are bronze and silver plated!

I don't know much about Carrie Bradshaw from "Sex in the City"...I wasn't really a fan of the show. However, from some of her outfits, I think that this would be a great addition to her collection. So...eat your heart out Carrie!!!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Just because something is old doesn't mean that it lacks value. There is beauty in the old as well as the new. Let's look and find the greatness in both!

Be blessed!

A Weekend Filled

2010-09-20T21:42:00.005-04:00

This weekend passed was truly filled with fun, family and friends!

It started off on Saturday morning with dear friends Becky and Tom at the Pitman Craft Fair. It was a gorgeous day for the event. The vendors and those that were visiting the fair were super friendly. I ended up purchasing some local honey for my horrible allergies, as well as an alpaca hat for my nephew's first birthday.

There were vendors that stretched for as far as I could see.

This kettle corn man stuck his tongue out at me in good fun!!

I saw plenty of jewelry vendors, but the best thing was that they were all so different. It reminded me that there is a place for everyone in the creative world...even in a small radius!

And when I left I got a surprise that made my lips pucker and turn up with a smile! There were two little ladies selling lemonade for twenty five cents. In an atmosphere with plenty of entrepreneurs, they were on their way to entrepreneurship themselves. I hadn't seen a deal like that in a long time, and they were simply the cutest, so I decided to partake of a cup. As I dug for my change one of the little girls said, "You can have it for free!". I gave them my money and asked their mom or sister (not quite sure which she was) if I could take a picture to post here. I hope they get to see themselves!!! Keep up the great customer service skills ladies...they will take you far!

Entrepreneurs in the making!!!

Mmmmmm......tasty!

Sunday I spent getting a good word, talking with Mel, and visiting family in PA to celebrate baby P's first birthday. Happy Birthday P...auntie loves you!!!

That alpaca hat looks good on you baby P!

Okay, Monday's jewelry piece is a pair of earrings. Metal mini washers, jumprings, and pearls make for an interesting combination. I wasn't quite sure that I would get what I had pictured, but nonetheless, I was pleased with the outcome. The bulk of the earrings (middle metal piece) comes from a belt I took apart. The pearls of course were added for a dainty touch.

There you have it for the evening folks. There are only a couple of days left in the month of September for you to be entered in a drawing to win free jewelry. So COMMENT, COMMENT, COMMENT!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:

People expect good service but few are willing to give it. ~ Robert Gately

Let's strive to give the service that we desire to get!!!!

Be blessed!!!

Procrastinating Less

2010-09-16T13:55:00.003-04:00

It's day two of me blogging earlier, and it feels great! It's a movement for me (I hope)...a movement of less procrastination!

I was watching Dr. Oz this morning as they talked about ADHD. Now I am not claiming to have ADHD, but some of the answers to the questions that indicate whether one may have ADHD fit me to a t. One of the questions was about procrastination. To be exact, "Do you procrastinate to get a task done when it is challenging?" Of course the answer for me was an astounding YES!

In the past years I have changed a bit with procrastination. I am not always on the ball, but I definitely don't procrastinate as much as I used to. I have come to realize that putting things off to the last minute sometimes comes out great, but how much better would they come out if I spaced tasks out to complete a project?

So, I am attempting not to wait until the last minute for much of anything, If I can help it!

Today I decided to create a bracelet to match the earrings that I made yesterday. All of the pieces are from various broken belts. I am not sure how much longer I will be somewhat intrigued by this wrapping process. It may last for another week or it may be gone tomorrow. I will ride it out until creative whims take me somewhere else.

A bracelet to match yesterday's earrings

Front, back and side views

Have a great day folks! Stay tuned for more jewelry ventures!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"We shall never have more time. We have, and always had, all the time ther is. No object is served in waiting until next week or even until tomorrow."

~Arnold Bennett

Be blessed!

Am I?

2010-09-15T11:02:00.005-04:00

I am managing to post at the 11am hour instead of the 11pm hour today. HOORAY!!!!

I thought that I was going to be able to post yesterday, but with starting a 360 degree Leadership class, I was biting off more than I could chew. From now on (until about Christmas time), I won't promise to blog everyday, although it may happen that way at times. What I will promise, is to blog at least 3 times per week. I have to be realistic about the things that I can do with all the other things that I have on my plate.

My thoughts for the day are geared towards this wonderful leadership class that I have started to take at Victory in Christ Christian Center. If I had to be honest, I took the class because it was the only one that could fit in my schedule, and because I had been wanting to take a class since I joined the ministry. I figured the least it would do is be a catalyst for me to do some studying of the Bible that was more concentrated.

As I sat in class last night, I knew it would be so much more. I asked myself, "Am I really a leader?" Then it dawned on me that leadership is so much more than just simply being in charge or in control. It is a mindset of being the best that you can be where you are! So, today I am focused on being the best that I can be...in my passions, ministry, and life period!

Okay...creatively speaking, the wears for today are another pair of earrings. This motif seems to be becoming a recurrent theme in the last couple of posts. I am enjoying the wrapping of the wire. Although at times time consuming, it is cathartic. It gives me time to reflect on the things I have to be thankful for, or what the day may bring or just time for God to give me a good attitude adjustment.

These particular earrings components come various things. The metal discs are from a belt, and the chains are from a necklace (both from the broken jewelry lot). The stones are something I purchased years ago and never used. They sort of reminds me of a cat eye stones.

I'm hooked..lol!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"Leadership is a journey you never complete!" ~Pastor John Edmondson Jr.
Leadership mimics life...let's get to the point where we enjoy the journey!

Be blessed!

A Cheat Day!

2010-09-13T23:12:00.004-04:00

Hair days are always busy, and today proved to be no different. When I twist my hair, it takes me about 5 hours, leaving me not much time to do anything else for that day. However, today I did manage to get some running around done.

So, yes, I am having a cheat day. The earrings that are below were made about a month ago. They are part of a collection of jewelry that I make out of hemp. This was the first time that I paired the hemp with the metal, and was pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Pairin these materials together for the first time

There you have it good people. A quick and easy entry. Although tomorrow will be a twee hectic, I will return with something new. Have a great evening!

Pearls of Wisdom:

To busy oneself with what is futile when one can do something useful, to attend to what is simple when one has the mettle to attempt what is difficult, is to strip talent of its dignity. ~ Jose Marti

Be blessed!

September 11th

2010-09-11T23:44:00.004-04:00

It's hard to believe that 9 years ago we lost so many people in the twin towers attack. I remember precisely what I was doing...I was still in college. I was watching the news (which was/is rare for me), and talking on the phone getting ready for a dance class. When it was finally stated that it was a terrorist attack, I called my mom and boyfriend at the time to make sure they were okay (they both worked in city zones). It was traumatic, not because I lost someone close to me, but becuase there were so many that did.

So today I am keeping in prayer all those that have lost during this day years ago. I pray for peace and comfort for you!

On a brighter note...today mum and I attended a wedding! Congratulations Troy and Lisa! I was supposed to make a set of earrings for the event last night, but these allergies had me a little under the weather. Instead, I decided to get on the ball, and make a pair this evening!

We had a splendid time

Ode to Joy...thanks for a new hairdo idea!

For the past couple of posts, I have been using materials that have come from belts, and these earrings are no different. The last time I posted I used the same materials. I am liking the effect the wrapped wire gives around a natural stone.

And I keep wrapping!

Pearls of Wisdom:

It is easier to lead men to combat, stirring up their passion, than to restrain them and direct them toward the patient labors of peace. ~ Andre Gide

Be blessed!

Yes...Items Posted Are For Sale!

2010-09-09T14:23:00.005-04:00

Good Evening Folks!!!

Today was a fabulously glorious day. For the first time in ages I felt free! It could be the books that I have been reading. It could be the recent increase in clients. It could be the creative surge that I have been blessed to be experiencing. Shoot for all I know it could be the 1990's Tai Bo VHS tape that I have been doing for two days. Whatever it is, I am truly grateful for it! Thank you LORD!!!

NEWSFLASH!!! NEWSFLASH!!! NEWSFLASH!!!!

The items posted are for SALE!!!

If you are interested please comment me on the piece along with an email address where I can send the prices of the items!

Well I decided to sip on a little tea from my mother's cup as I made these earrings today.

It was a calming tea, but I was extra hyper today!

These beauties started off as part of a belt. I wrapped wire multiple times in a triangle design and added a light grey quartz stone in the middle.

Products

The finished product!

That's all she wrote for the evening! I look forward to sharing with you all tomorrow!

Pearls of Wisdom:

For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. ~ Nelson Mandela

Let's not just think selfishly of ourselves, but have the mind frame to enhance the lives of our fellow brothers and sisters!

Be blessed!

Adopting New Ways

2010-09-07T21:25:00.006-04:00

Stepping out of my comfort zone has never been my forte'. I will be the first to admit that although I am working on relinquishing control, I like to take the reigns more often than not. But as I read a great book by the name of "Boy Meets Girl" by Joshua Harris, I decided to put adopting new ways into practice today.

I won't get into details, but today I recognized that there may have been areas that I was wrong, and areas I am willing to take some slack for where I wasn't. The bottom line is, I am in the business of doing what I need to do to make things right in the eyes of my Maker.

With my brief thought of the day out of the way, a necklace was in the workings this evening. It is brass with serpentine nuggets. The parts come from a broken belt, and a few necklaces. While I was creating it I had an ideal of a woman in the Tudor period in my mind. They often wore heavy, and gaudy jewelry...somewhat like what is in fashion today.

It's chandelier style!

Mom modeling! She gets tired of doing it, but anything for her daughter!

Stay tuned for tomorrows creative conquest!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Laws control the lesser man... Right conduct controls the greater one."

~ Mark Twain

Be blessed!

A Time To Be Busy

2010-09-06T21:38:00.005-04:00

It is clear that this is my season to be on my grind in every form and fashion!

Yesterday I managed to give back to the community, get Kingdom business done, and get some potentially awesome clients. It was a long day, but a great day, and today was no different.

It just proves that I am on the right path along this journey of mine!

Now for the creative piece of the day! I actually started this piece on Friday. It started off as one thing, but turned into something totally different by its completion this afternoon.

A front and back view

It started out so different, but it matches the necklace I made a few days ago!

So there you have it folks...a short, but sweet entry today! Hasta Manana!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"The daily grind of hard work gets a person polished." ~Anonymous

Be blessed!

Figuring Me Out!

2010-09-03T23:18:00.004-04:00

I am realizing that "figuring me out" is the most important thing for me these days. I think I have been doing this for some time, but if I had to be honest with myself and others, it hasn't quite been on the top of my list.

Arranging and rearranging priorities is of utmost importance. My relationship with Christ being numero uno, and all else falling in line after that, especially my businesses. I must remain focused, and this blog is part of doing so!

So, today's piece was actually made in the wee hours of the morning....1am to be exact. I didn't have the umph to get on here and blog though, hence you have it now. I decided to make a pair of earrings today. The metal pieces are from the lot of broken jewelry, and the stones are natural stones.

It looks like the chain motif will be in my repertoire for a while!

It's the weekend, but I believe that I have a Saturday blog in me. That means I will be posting manana! Until then...

Pearls of Wisdom:

Don't dwell on what went wrong. Instead, focus on what to do next. Spend your energies on moving forward toward finding the answer. ~Denis Waitly

Be blessed!

Rocking My Wears

2010-09-01T23:35:00.004-04:00

What started off as a challenging day, ended beautifully with the confirmation that I needed to continue to press toward the mark that I know I will reach! A huge thank you to my family, sister-friends, and church family. They really keep me motivated...afterall, iron sharpens iron, and today I was dull!

With how I was feeling, I didn't get the chance to finish the piece that I started working on last night. However, I was happy to see that my wears were being donned by a dear friend by the name of Pam. I made them a couple of weeks ago, and was pleased with the outcome.

She makes them look oh so funky!

So that is tonight's piece. If you have purchased a piece of jewelry, please take a picture of you rocking it and send it to me. I would love to post them!

Night night folks! Sleep tight!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Sometimes we ask things over and over again, thinking that GOD has not heard us the first time. Perhaps HE has heard you and is waiting for you to trust what HE told you in the first place. HE hears the cries of HIS people folks, and your prayers won't go unanswered!

Be blessed!

Will I Ever...?

2010-08-31T23:24:00.004-04:00

I am beginning to think that it is difficult for me to post an entry before the hour of 11pm. It is interesting. I actually start the thinking process for making a piece of jewelry at about 8pm. Most times I don't have an idea of what I would like to create until I sit at my desk.

I look at the hemp, stone, wire, chain, bead, and toggle, and ask what could I do with these today. And not to super spiritualize things, but yup I do pray and ask God for ideas. Yall know that Jesus is my ace boon!

So tonight I wanted to make something simple, but different. I saw some string that I had and thought it would be interesting to add it to some metal. Then I have been on a chain kick, so I added some of them in there.

A nice organic and inorganic mix!

Well, ta ta for the evening! See you manana...maybe earlier than 11pm...LOL!!!

Pearls of Wisdom:
"Don't accept that you can't make a difference. Because if you can't make a difference, you won't make a difference, and if you put a multiplier on that we will continue on an unsustainable pathway." ~ Maurice Strong

Be blessed!

Encore!

2010-08-30T00:00:00.006-04:00

This will be a combined Sunday and Monday entry. I won't be combining days that often, with the exception of the weekend. However, there were more things going on than I could keep up with.

Sunday was fabulous! Church as usual, and then mom and I had the honor of going to a benefit concert that was being held by a client of mine. I told you all that I have the best clients! She is a wonderful classical singer with a testimony that will blow your wig back. Her name is Celeste Holmes, and as a thyroid cancer survivor (the tumor was attached to the main nerve of her voice box) she was never supposed to sing again. Well, mercy said no! I don't know what she sounded like before cancer, but after she sounded phenomenal! It just goes to show that sometimes we are better after the fire, when all the impurities can be burned off.

Us parlaying at the cafe'. We had a great time!

So the pieces that I have made are necklaces. It's rare, but it does sometimes happen. I reckon I may start to fancy making them if they come out as good as the one pictured below. I don't have a before pic, but this necklace is made from different broken belt pieces that I got from the lot I spoke of the other day. If I am not mistaken, it is actually from three different belts.

Chunky jewelry is "saying something" now, and I am enjoying making it!

That is all there is for this evening folks! I pray you have a fabulous evening, and tone into see what's new for tomorrow!

Pearls of Wisdom:

The road to success is not strait. There is a curve called failure, a loop called confusion, speed bumps called friends, red lights called enemies, caution lights called family, and you will have flats called jobs. If you have a space called determination, an engone called perserverance, insurance called faith, and a driver called JESUS, you will make it to a place called success!!! ~unknown

Be blessed!

Day 9 & 10: It's The Weekend!

2010-08-28T00:53:00.006-04:00

I have decided that it would be best for me to combine Friday and Saturday posts. I will make a piece or two before each weekend is over. On Sunday's I will resume daily blogging!

Yesterday was super busy as my clientele for massage is picking up, which is great for me. I then went and saw the very action pact movie, Takers. Today was full of fun and fellowship at a cookout with VICCC Praise & Worship team.

This weekends pieces are both earrings. I like the simplicity of one, and the intricacies of the other. One was made completely with purchased products, while the other pair is made from recycled jewelry, with the exception of the rulite quarts stone in the middle.

There you have it for the evening...or morning...LOL! I look forward to sharing with you again tomorrow!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither does change happen that fast either. Take the time to give someone a gift called mercy today, and remember that you are given a hefty, renewed dose daily!

Be blessed!

Day 8: It's Here!

2010-08-26T23:57:00.003-04:00

In by the hair of my chin...okay bad metaphor, but so true!

I got my broken jewelry today. The shipper was super, and I wouldn't mind doing business with them again. It was sent on Tuesday, and I received it today, and the stuff is off the hook. I see so much potential!

Broken jewelry pieces!

So while I was so excited to receive my package, I was unable to make anything new today. I wasn't feeling up to par for various reasons. I left work early, laid down, actually took a dose of ibuprophren (those that know me know that is super rare). I managed to feel better in time for Praise and Worship rehearsal, which was phenomenal as always!

Tonight I broke down jewelry, but wanted to post an item that I made a few weeks back for the Piazza show. I am not really one to use swarovski crystals, but I was pleased with the outcome of this piece. The toggle grabbed my attention first, and the rest was a wrap!

I love the mixture of the dainty swarovski crystals and rugged chain!

Well good people, there you have it for the evening! See you manana, with something new!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe." ~ Gail Devers

Be blessed!

Phillipians 4:13

Day7: A Change In Plans

2010-08-25T23:27:00.004-04:00

Today was a pretty low key day. I took the time to reflect of the path that I need to stay on in order to accomplish what I know I am purposed to accomplish. That meant re-evaluated plenty of things and folks that may distract me on this and other various journeys I am taking.

Enough of that! I ended up having to hold off on the earrings that I started yesterday. I attempted to do some light soldering with a tool that I have, and the pieces just refused to connect. So instead of getting discouraged and sidetracked, I decided to create another piece instead. The project is not a failure by any means. I will pick it back up at a later time when I have the heavy duty tools in order to do so.

Tonight's beauty evolves from a necklace that was given to me by a friend. The necklace was nice, but I am such a bracelet and earrings girl for the most part. They inspire me more than necklaces do.

The necklace before reconstruction!

So I decided to create a simple yet elegant bracelet by adding some strands of yellow jade and adding a faux antique toggle. This piece is ultra light, unlike some of the other chunky bracelets I have been making.

A new bracelet!

I hope that you all enjoy, and don't forget to leave your comments to be entered into a drawing for free jewelry!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Each of us has the right and the responsibility to assess the road which lie ahead and those over which we have traveled, and if the feature road looms ominous or unpromising, and the road back uninviting-inviting, then we need to gather our resolve and carrying only the necessary baggage, step off that road into another direction. If the new choice is also unpalatable, without embarrassment, we must be ready to change that one as well." ~Maya Angelou

Be blessed!

Day 6: I Get It From My Momma!

2010-08-24T23:03:00.007-04:00

To start, it is great to know that you are in a position to make someone feel better. Today I realize that I have the best clients in the world. It is an honor to continue learning in order to improve their health from the inside out!

You may be wondering where my artistic prowess comes from. I get it from my momma yall! I won't snubb my dad either, he could sketch with the best of them.

My mom is super creative when it comes to interior decorating. Me...not so much! She has the ability to look at a space, take yours, hers or anyones idea and make it pop. She tells me the story of when she was younger and was excepted to an art school in Philly. She went one day, got lost on the bus, and made up in her mind that she wouldn't go back. My grandparents didn't do anything to fuel her passion at that time. Art wasn't a big money maker, and as most folks see it today, just a hobby for my grandparents. It's okay...I was happy to go on and finish something that she started, getting my bachelors degree in Fine Art.

Thanks mom and dad for believing in, and paying for my passion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She's preparing to decorate for a family friends wedding!

Today's jewelry started off as a bracelet, but will end up as earrings. I haven't actually finished, but the process is a bit more involved. This go round, I didn't take just off things, and add something to make it my own.

I took off the chains of this Kenneth Cole bracelet, along with the pearls and the silver beads for a later project. I then used my electronic rotary tool (one that I am just using after having for a year or so) to file off the KC name and get this gold tone burnished look.

There you have it for this evening. Check back tomorrow for the prayerfully beautiful end product!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"I love you, and because I love you, I would sooner have you hate me for telling you the truth than adore me for telling you lies." ~Pietro Aretino

Tell those that you love the truth folks, and set them free. Hate or great dislike lasts momentarily for most, and love is neverending!

Be Blessed!

Day 5: I've Won The Bid!

2010-08-23T23:24:00.004-04:00

Yes ladies and gentleman, I have won the lot of broken jewelry that I bid on a few days ago. I know, I hear you saying, "She's so excited about broken jewerly?" Yes, I am! I am a frugal woman (free is the best), and paid a twee more than I really wanted to, but it is worth it. I will definitely post a pic when I receive it.

Today was a sweet day...literally! I spent time reading at a local cafe spot in Philly called Naked Chocolate. Look at that wonderful European hot chocolate below. It was supper yummy...can't you tell!

These earrings are today's creative venture. I created a pair of earrings with some chains a few weeks ago, and liked them and thought I would do something else with chains. Really I will be doing lots of things with chains in the future.

I have made it once again under the wire! Have a great evening, and I look forward to showing more tomorrow!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Express love in many ways today to many people. That may be the only expression of love they receive today!

Be blessed!

Day 4: Almost Can't Believe I'm Keeping Up!

2010-08-22T16:54:00.006-04:00

I am still at it, and more excited about this creative journey every day!

It rained like cats and dogs here today. However despite the rain, it was filled with fun! It started off with spending time in fellowship with my church fam and a good word. Then Meli made a fantastic taco going away din din to bid farewell to Bora and Michelle. Prinky and Brianna stopped by...doesn't she look fabulous with her Flower Fairy hand bag!!!

I forgot to mention yesterday that I went a little wild with buying the pens below. Those that know me well know that I spend lots of time journaling. That means that I go through plenty of pens, and I just couldn't pass up these beauties. They were a dollar a pack. Yes, I said a DOLLAR a pack!!! Uniball pens aren't cheap, and at that price, I should have brought the whole store out.

Anywho, the creation for the day is along the same vain as yesterdays. I am enjoying working with hemp. The material is light and easy to work with.

There you have it for today! Stay tuned though, I am going to start giving random free giveaways for those that post comments. I snagged the idea from Marisa over at A New Dress A Day.

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe, and it will come naturally." ~ David Frost

Be blessed!

Day 3 - Making It By The Wire!

2010-08-21T23:24:00.005-04:00

Ugghh..it's day 3 and one would have thought that I would have written an entry by this hour. Instead of it being 11pm, it's almost midnight. I have an early am tomorrow, but need to make sure that I keep up with this creative motion this go round.

Today I actually managed to finish a piece. That's right...no cheating going on today. It was a rather busy morning filled with fellowship with my church family. Shout out to Tammy & Rich...my flyer buddies! We (along with several other folks) handed out flyers for a community outreach program that will be taking place on Memorial Day weekend. It's one thing to have, but it is a blessing to also be able to have in abundance in order to bless others.

After walking quite vigoriously, I was pooped and took the afternoon and much of the evening to take a rest. As the night fell, I ended up trying my hardest to not look so much on ebay for this lot of broken jewelry, but it was calling my name. Anywho, while talking to a wonderful friend, I managed to get the majority of the necklace below done.

My beautiful Mum modeling today's piece for me!

So....that ends my brief description of today's creative journey. I look forward to updating you ladies and gents manana!

Pearls of Wisdom:
Our life is not our own...to GOD we belong, and we should desire to give ourselves to HIM!

Be Blessed!

It's Day 2

2010-08-20T22:53:00.005-04:00

Hey folks! It's day 2 and I am just making it in by the skin of my teeth. It's now almost 11pm in what some like to call the "Dirty Jerz", and I am just getting to take pics and write concerning my creative whims for the day.

Okay, so today I am kind of cheating. I didn't really create anything, but I am in the midst of searching endlessly for broken jewelry. Yes, I said broken jewelry. I find so much potential in what people deem trash when it comes to products that can be recycled. So, here is the call to all those that are out there in blogging land:

IF YOU HAVE BROKEN JEWELRY YOU NO LONGER WANT...SEND IT MY WAY!!! TO SAY THANK YOU, I AM MORE THAN HAPPY TO MAKE YOU SOMETHING IN RETURN!!!!!!!!!!

Now that my plug is over, a twee about today's featured piece. A few days ago a dear friend of mine was so gracious to pass along a pair of earring. They broke a few times and fed up she trusted that I would be able to transform them into something beautiful. This is what I have come up with.

The earrings consisted of the floral pieces. I added the chains, some aventurine stones, and a toggle. I have also created a pair of earring as well.

There you have it! A short but sweet post for the day. I look forward to continuing tomorrow. Perhaps I will do so before the hour of 11pm :)

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Fear is a self-imposed prison that will keep you from becoming what God intends for you to be. You must move against it with the weapons of faith and love."

~ Rick Warren

If we fear the journey, we will never get to the destination. Getty up and ride the journey express! It's not always guaranteed to be a smooth ride, but one that assures you will arrive to your destination when, and how God desires you to.

Be Blessed!

Welcome Back Inspiration!

2010-08-19T22:24:00.007-04:00

Okay, so using horrible vernacular...you know how I do! I fall off the map, and then I pick back up where I left off last.

This pick up comes at the hands of a young woman by the name of Marisa, who concentrates on spending only a dollar a day (for 365 days) on transforming ordinary clothing found at garage and flea markets into shabby chic apparel. She takes before, after, and how to pictures, and blogs about them everyday! Read it...New Dress A Day @ http://newdressaday.wordpress.com/about/

I first caught an article about the Julie & Julia type story yesterday on yahoo. Her inspiring story of turning one mans (or womans) trash into treasure has caused me to really push myself to do a little something every day.

What is the challenge? Well, I am so glad that you have asked! I won't put a time limit on it, but I am going to try my darndest to blog about what I have created daily. Although I journal faithfully (those that have been reading know that I sketch in my journal) it is probably safe to say that I will be blogging most about jewelry for the next couple of months. I have jumped back on that bandwagon again.

Although the thought of blogging daily seems daunting, I find it hard to believe that I can't post a little something...regardless of how exhausted I may feel. Afterall, I am sure there are folks out there that manage to do it while carrying more responsibilites than myself.

UPDATES:

While I was gone...perhaps contrary to popular belief, I was working. A friend and I sold our creations at a marketplace in the Piazza. I created approximately 75 pieces for the show. Buisness wasn't as jazzed as I would have liked it to be, but we got to meet several talented craftsmen/craftswomen.

I am blessed to have family and friends that will "don" my creations, and as a result I have gained the opportunity to have a few jewelry shows.

The painting has ceased for the moment, and Buddy has been sleep for a minute, but not for long. I can feel the need to put those brushes on canvas, and capture whatever I deem appealing coming up soon, and when I do, I will post them.

So, I thank you all for taking this journey with me. And thanks Marisa for letting me know that it is indeed possible. Let's ride it until the wheels fall off, and hope that they don't fall off tomorrow...LOL!

Melissa and I with our table at the Piazza!

My first jewelry post...one of many to come.

Pearls of Wisdom:

It's not how fast you get to the finish line, but the journey that you take to get there that counts!

Be Blessed!

In Motion

2010-06-10T13:07:00.010-04:00

It amazes me how time flies. It seems as it has been about two days since I have last blogged, however clearly it has been about 2 weeks.

Nonetheless, I have been busy, busy, busy. This go round...this blog entry, there is nothing super duper deep (as I can tend to get here), but just some pics of the works that have me on the grind.

Last entry I talked about how ignorant I have been to the history of the art community, and its greats in the past. As an attempt to correct some of my destructive behavior, I have been doing a bit of studying of some of the artists work that I like.

The first is Georgia O'Keefe. I have always admired the way that she portrayed flowers and fruit. Her work always has an organic, yet sensual feel that pulls you in to wonder where her thought process was at the moment. In my research I learned that although it was Georgia who created the artistic work, it was Alfred Stieglitz who made her well known to the art community. The art world deems to be no different than the world of other professions. Sometimes it is not about your work and how well you do your work, but about the people that you know or those that know you.

Bottom line...her life was fascinating to me and more in depth than I will get into here.

As a start to a new venture of this great motion that has been started in learning more about art history I have started a new series called "Pieces Of". They are studies of an artists work that I happen to like, and perhaps some that I am not too fond of. The first is "Pieces of O'Keefe".

These past few weeks have been busy and in addition to painting, I have been doing a lot more sketching, bedazzling and making clothing. I really use whatever medium I need to get my point across. I do what I feel, and this is all a part of this creative journey that I am on.

Sketches & Bedazzling: I don't know what got into me!

T-Shirt Dresses: Thanks to my creative cohort Khia! She gave me the instruction and inspiration on these tees. We are gonna do big things together!

I thought my UArts folks would love this one! I managed to make a dress out of old UArts orientation tees. I almost think that this is my fav of the those that I have made thus far.

Everyone needs a black number in their repetoire

These Goodwill tees turned into a fun, printed number.

As you can see, I am a tad addicted to making these...LOL!

There you have it for this post folks! I will be posting again soon!

Pearls of Wisdom:

GOD will finish the good work that HE started in you!

Be blessed!

Ignorantly Me

2010-05-20T11:20:00.004-04:00

I will be the first to admit that I have been ignorant when it comes to my craft to some extent. Ignorant meaning lacking knowledge or information as to a particular subject or fact. In my case by choice.

I am fascinated with creativity; how a piece is formed, what materials were used, and what was the inspiration behind the piece. The questions go for art as a whole...visual, performance, and literary. But what I have had a hard time accepting is history.

I remember being in college, and hating art history. It was part of the information I needed for my craft, but I couldn't stand it. I was excited for my studio classes, which taught me how to strategically create visual masterpieces. However, honestly I could have cared less about the masters that created those visual masterpieces. All which probably had lots to due with the way I viewed history.

For such a long time, history had been such a bad word to me. Instead of finding history interesting, I looked at the word as two words instead of two syllables (his story). In my mind I would always wonder who "he" was. Who was giving the information about the "he"? Was "he" a reputable source? Did "he" know the subject in question personally or through years of studying second, third, and perhaps fourth sources?

I often struggled thinking studying other artists would taint the style, and sometimes message of my work. I had my favorite artists. They were my favorites because of their work as opposed to their life. I didn't understand that their work was a reflection of their life. As an artist, I should have made the correlation, but I didn't. After all, I created from my life experiences, and my life circumstances...and still do!

After a succession of conversations with other artists where I made major blunders about art history, I started to process things a tad different. Perhaps I was missing out on a wealth of knowledge that could propel my work to the next level instead of hindering it.

I am convinced that ignorance is a direct result of fear (fear standing for "false evidence appearing real"). So here I am present day studying what I should have been bothering to learn years ago. I am no longer afraid of what is to come of my work from studying artistic giants. I am sure that my work will stand on its own two feet!

Pearls of Wisdom:
History is a tool to learn from others, but more importantly a tool to learn of yourself!

Be blessed!

Philly's Pulse

2010-05-01T22:07:00.004-04:00

I am a person that marches to the beat of my own drum. I realize that now more than ever. Some call it unique, different, eclectic, and perhaps even a tad weird.

As I strolled home from the UArts AAP Emerge gallery opening at the Sande Webster Gallery (which was great!), I managed to pass by Rittenhouse Square Park. It reminded me why I am just a train ride away from the city.

What a variety of individuals. I was drawn into the people that were just as eclectic as I am. There were some who juggled, some who did tricks with hula hoops, some strummed the guitar, some walked their dogs, some played with frisbees, some were on dates, and some practiced acrobatics.

I am connected to Philly's pulse, and with each reverberating wave I feel a need to create. A need to express just who I am through my work. It's just enough push without being overwhelming. It's unassuming, but holds expectations...great expectations for those that too absorb all the incredible things it has to offer.

Thanks for the inspiration Philly! I am soaking you up!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Find the silver lining in the clouds, but more importantly, find the inspiration that comes through and after the storm!

Be Blessed!

Got Success?

2010-04-23T10:42:00.007-04:00

It has been a week since I last wrote, and I am determined to keep up with blogging this go round…with readers or not! This time it is less about others and more about cataloging my successes, and turning those ventures that fall short of successes into experiences that will make me better as a creative individual.

It’s amazing the inspiration that I find in the smallest of things. Although there was far less dancing than I thought there would be in the movie FAME (a different story altogether), I found a quote that was used about success to be quite inspiring. The quote went like this:

Success is not fame, money or power! Success is waking up in the morning so excited about what you have to do that you literally fly out the door. It’s getting to work with people you love. Success is connecting with the world and making people feel. It is finding a way to bind together people who have nothing in common but a dream. Success is falling asleep at night knowing you did the best you could. Success is joy, and freedom, and friendship. Success is love!

I am coming to understand that success is more grandiose than the small space I try to cram it in. And from this quote I recognized this:

Success is personal - Success to one individual is not success to another. It is not about keeping up with the Jones' (whoever they are). It is about personal bench marks that are set and met.

Success' drive is different for everyone - Success' purpose is multi-faceted. The thing that drives one individual could be the thing that totally disinterests the next. For some it is financial, for some it is emotional, for some it is spiritual, and for some it is just about finding joy in a seemingly dismal situation.

Success should ignite a sense of freedom within - There is something special about accomplishing something that you set out to do. The operative word here being you. It could be a small or large feat, but a triumph for you all the same.

So this week I was successful on my own terms!

I spent much needed time helping my niece with her school project. It was a shoebox craft that everyone was made to do as a young student at one time or another. I didn’t do much but paint the outside and paste the pre-printed cards (thanks to my sister) on the top. However, my niece appreciated it, and that was more than enough.

I managed to fix some jewelry for a friend that was surprisingly relaxing. It gave me some fresh ideas for jewelry designs of my own. I researched ideas and possibilities for a new project that I will be talking about real soon. I sketched in my journal more than ever, and I made some necessary calls to those that I love dearly.

None of what I did this week was anything that was going to make me a dollar, and nothing that was going to get me recognition with the outside world. However, it made me successful in my own right!

I will continue to rejoice in the small successes that I make. I will remember to give thanks to God for each step I take to fulfill my purpose, no matter how miniscule they may be.

Pearls of Wisdom:

Success was never meant to have control of the wheel, but sit nice and pretty and enjoy the ride. Are you driving success or are you allowing success to drive you?

A Chance Encounter

2010-04-11T17:48:00.006-04:00

Yesterday an encounter that almost failed to occur because of my sometimes (which I use loosely as most times I am fancy free) planned ways. A short note that consisted of five or six words sparked a light yet deep, joyous yet intellectual, insightful, and truly inspiring conversation. It was just what I needed to thrust me into the realm of getting back on track with some things that I had put on the back burner.

He was an artist (visual), lover of music, an avid reader, and a family man. Although I had known him only a short while, his character exuded integrity that is rare these days. There were no sexual overtones that so often occur with friendly banter that is exchanged between females and their male counterparts. It was truly conversation that really made me ponder more things than a few.

As I laid my head on my pillow to catch up on much needed beauty rest this morning, I thought about my work and its progress. And based upon our conversation, here are a few reminders and revelations that came forth:

Continual education is paramount. There should never be a point in life where I think that I have become the crème de la crème when it comes to my craft. It’s okay to be confident, but pride comes before the fall, and it is the lack of further educating myself that could point to the demise of that which I have been gifted to do.

It is my responsibility to get my work out there…to tell my story. I have a moral and social responsibility of finding that happy medium of being vulnerable enough to allow my audience to see the real me without taking them to a place of misunderstanding my point.

I create how I feel! I grow attached to my work, but am (and have been for some time) in the space where I am able to let it go. I have to be open for my audience to interpret my work as they may. I must allow them to have their own experience apart from what my connection has been with the piece.

I am a product of my environment, but I am also someone who creates the environment in which I choose to live. My parents genes were definitely passed down as they both were/are creative individuals. They gave/give me the space to be unique, and fostered/foster that uniqueness. My mother is my biggest advocate to this day! However, I am so wonderfully happy to be me apart from others. I make my own rules sometimes and often view life slightly skewed...chock full of optimism!

Last, but certainly not least, there are others that share my experiences with sometimes having a love/hate relationship with their craft. There are others that struggle daily to make room for their passion to create in the midst of their daily grind to make a living.

So there you have it my good people…the story behind a new beginning. A new beginning that is going to be marked by excellency and greatness! Not only because it is new, but because this time I welcome the journey instead of an expected end.

I tagged this blog as “Chance Encounters”, but in fact I don’t believe encounters are at all chance, but rather divine. They happen for reasons sometimes that are unable to be explained. Their purpose perhaps never to be understood fully (or at all), but making an impact far beyond our understanding.

To that gentleman, I pray that I continue to meet individuals that further ignite my passion for my craft, the arts, and life in general. Our divine encounter meant more than words could express. Thank you!

Pearls of Wisdom:

"Every day, you have the chance to do or say something that will cause ripples of influence that will wash against lives." ~ Pat Croce

Let us make a conscious decision to make beautiful waves where the crest connects with the trough to envelope and nurture others throughout this journey called life!

Be blessed!

A New Start!

2009-09-17T23:57:00.006-04:00

Wow...it has been almost 4 months since I last posted! However, while I have not been updating, I have been busy as a bee working.

From here on out, I am going to be more vigilant about posting. I know, I know...I have said that before, but I am in a place where I am holding up to my words. Now in order for me to do so, I won't be doing so much writing, but displaying more of my work.

So...here goes folks! This is a new series that I am working on that has everything to do with color and pattern.

Enjoy and as always, your comments are welcome!

Pearls of Wisdom

Motivation happens when you least expect it. Welcome it with open arms and be prepared to go with its movement!

Be Blessed!

In The Studio

2009-05-11T22:45:00.005-04:00

Last week was an extremely productive week. I was able to set aside my previous hang ups about getting into the studio and literally attack my work head on.

While at the last Joose meeting (last week's Wednesday Whoop) I realized that there may have been several things keeping me out of the studio. One being the clutter in parts of my studio, two not having my own space, but the biggest speed bump of them all being my frame of thought. My frame of mind about my work, and warped feeling about my studio.

It almost felt like my enemy...the space that was holding up my creative process. When I got there, nothing would come, and I do mean nothing. No, let's get back to before I got to the space. How about it was hard for me to even get to the space.

So, I took the advice of some of my fellow artist friends. They had some good pointers. I just needed to be in the space. In fact, that may have been the very thing that was holding me back. Not doing! Who would have thought that not doing is what was causing me so much heartache and lack of creativity?

As a result of our conversation, the studio and I have been constant companions in the last few weeks. I now love the feeling I get when I am there. All else doesn't matter in that space. It is just me, my tools, my imagination, and emotions that create wonderful pieces of art work. Thank GOD!

Here is a new series that I am in the process of starting. It is somewhat of a color study, but more about process. Enjoy!

Pearl of Wisdom!

Be not weary in well doing! GOD in heaven can do anything!

Be blessed!

The Wednesday Whoop - SALON JOOSE

2009-05-06T23:14:00.005-04:00

As I continue to grow as an artist, I find the importance in learning of other artists' and their techniques. So, in an effort to bring artists to the forefront that I appreciate and that don't often times get the notoriety they ought to, I am starting The Wednesday Whoop!

I will be highlighting a different artist or association every week. I will be primarily focusing on visual artists, but being a renaissance woman means that I definitely will not leave out artists that concentrate on other forms of art.

Welcome to Wednesday Whoop

SALON JOOSE!

I first encountered Tanya Dodd (founder) while serving on the University of the Arts AAP Board about a year ago. At one particular meeting she shared a booklet of her amazing photography and our love for art formed a great friendship from there. We exchanged numbers and email addresses and vowed to keep in touch.

A couple of months later I received an email titled Salon Juice-Fuel For Artists By Artists. It was an invitation to attend what I call an "artist forum."

Well, I decided to attend, and was ecstatic about what I found Tanya Murphy Dodd and Anyta Thomas (co-founder) had going on when I got there.

So what is exactly Salon Joose? Salon Joose is an open arena for artists of all kinds and caliber to come together to share past, current and future creative endeavours. These shared experiences are not kept in the physical realm, but taken viral as well in order to get vital information to artists all over the world via blogs and online talk radio.

Those who attend sessions that occur every 4th Sunday of each month receive honest critiques and suggestions of their work (if wanted) in a comfortable studio/gallery arena. If a discussion groups, workshops, exhibition space, space rental and much more is what you are looking for, then look no further than Salon Joose!

Another honorable perk of Salon Joose is that they have a running calendar of art events that is happening in and around the Philadelphia area noted on their blog.

So get JOOSED people!
For more information about Salon Joose and its founders, please visit http://www.4joose.blogspot.com/.
If you are interested in attending a forum, please contact the founders from the website above so they can put you on their email list. They are more than pleased to have additional artists join!

Thanks folks! I look forward to showcasing another artist next Wednesday!

Pearls of Wisdom:
If you believe in what you are doing, then let nothing hold you up in your work. Much of the best work of the world has been done against seeming impossibilities. The thing is to get the work done. ~Dale Carnegie

Be Blessed!

Getting Setup

2009-04-24T01:50:00.003-04:00

I am truly on my way to becoming the business woman that I am meant to be. I am sure of it. The road has not been necessarily easy, and I am sure that there are plenty of other snags that will come along the way, but I am so excited about that which has taken place, and that which is to come.

I have made some much needed purchases in order to aid in the proper flow of my businesses. These new items include a AIO printer, and a sewing machine. Yes...I said it...a sewing machine.
Now, I am not fancy with the sewing machine. As a matter of fact, I don't really know how to use one at all. However, there are certain pieces that I need to sew. I have been doing so by hand, and am more than happy to get the precision that I am looking for with the "Brother". I also don't mind the time factor.

So...here is what's new

Newsflash...Newsflash...Newsflash
The business cards have been printed and are out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Art Front

Painting/Drawing: I am in the midst of starting a new series. The series is derived from a friend. She actually is in need of a painting, and from that I have done some sketching and some purchasing of some oil paints, which I haven't done in a while.

Photography: Buddy and I are about to take some excursions. In order to get the study pics that I need for the new series that I am going to get into, I need to go to some arboretums. I will definitely be doing so in the next couple of weeks in order to get started.

I was also just asked this evening to do a family portrait for some family friends. I am stoked about it.

Jewelry: I have made a couple of new pieces. I have come to the conclusion that I will continue to do business with Elle Bee. I have been saying that I am going to take some more pieces there for the last couple of months, but I will have to do so within the next couple of weeks as they have almost sold all of my inventory.

Massage Therapy Front

I have come up with the name of the business: Enet's Graceful Touch Massage Therapy.

There is a website that is up. It is basic, but will be revamped within the next couple of months. I want it to be just a tad jazzier. www.enetsgracefultouch.massagetherapy.com. Check it out, and let me know what you think!

I have been giving out my business cards, and even have a gig this weekend to do chair massage (with the help of NMTI). I will definitely be networking!

Well, that is what we have folks. I will be sure to post pics to keep you updated as well.

Pearl of Wisdom:
"Beethoven, Wagner, Bach, and Mozart settled down day after day to the job at hand. They didn't waste time waiting for inspiration. The great composers did not set to work because they were inspired, but became inspired because they were working."
~ Earnest Newman

Be Blessed!

My Plan B, His Plan A

2009-03-18T17:49:00.006-04:00

It's been a while and no, I haven't fallen off the bandwagon, but have really been needing some time to get some things in order. I have been a tad hesitant about writing since I have had nothing visual to go along with my creative/artistic ventures. As I stated before, I believe I will write anyway; therefore we have this entry.

As I sat and spoke to a friend a while ago about some of my insecurities and woes of life, it became clear to me that my plan B may have been God's plan A all along. It's funny sometimes how we plan, set up shop, re-vamp the plan, re-vamp the shop that we set up, and the cycles go on and on, only to find out that plan B is so much simpler and conducive to who we are than plan A in the first place. The plan that made us sweat and toil day and night, cry hours on end, and sometimes compromise our identity was never meant to be so.

His plan A has been here all along. My ticket to freedom. However, although that free ticket is available for me to take a hassle free ride, I have been hesitant about getting on. One foot on the train, the other foot on the platform. The foot on the train realizes that I must make a move.

The foot on the train realizes that I must make a move. I have been created for a time such as this. To carry out that which GOD has gifted me with. If I don't jump on board, I will be left behind trying to find ways to pick up the pieces.

The foot on the platform questions the moves that I am making. "Are you thinking in an orderly fashion?" "Have you thought about consulting this one and that one before taking this leap?" "Do you really think that you are equipped to make this journey?" "Is this the right time? Maybe you should wait to make sure." If I jump on board, I may have left the station before the cargo has been loaded.

So with that being said, I am vowing to put all anxieties aside and hop on the train. I am ready to take the lead of my Master and go with His plan B, which ultimately becomes my plan A.

On the Art Front

Jewelry: December proved to be a great month for jewelry sales. I am assuming due to the Christmas season. Although I have not had the opportunity to make much jewelry, the store where I am selling items would like me to continue to sell items in their store. I will hopefully be replenishing their stash within the next 2 weeks or so.

Buddy (my camera): Buddy has not been used in a while. I need to take him out to do some product shots. While in school I made a new friend that I coincidentally went to the same high school as I did. He graduated a couple years after I did, but has a great eye for photography. We have not had the opportunity to shoot together yet, but will do so in the near future.

Button Series: I have gotten rave reviews on my button pieces. I completed yet another piece within the last month, and am working on how I would like it to be framed. I have one more that I want to do to complete this series.

Paintings/Other mediums: I have been blessed to have been introduced to many different art circles within the last couple of months. My mother has an associate who she has put me in contact with. This associate has gallery space available for free, and my fellow artists know how much of a jewel that is! So, I will be taking her up on her offer in the very (and I do mean very) near future. My former boss also would like for me to have a show in their work space. Therefore people, I have no excuse not to show and sell work. I will do it!

Other Adventures

Massage Therapy: I now can put the letters CMT (certified Massage Therapist) after my name. Although I was concerned about how well I would do, I graduated with honors and perfect attendance. It is just a pleasure to know that I am able to offer others relaxation, and comforts to their physical ailments. I am toying around with a couple of different names for my upcoming massage therapy business. I am up for suggestions!

Becoming Legit

2008-11-18T19:47:00.004-05:00

Life is funny sometimes, and God always seems to have an uncanny way of getting a job done through you when you have missed the mark, or have been too stubborn or afraid to get it done. There manages to be the smallest nudge that undeniably forces you to the next stage in life.

I received that nudge about a week ago. It came in the form of a W-9 tax form. I have been successfully selling jewelry items in Elle Bee. It hasn’t been a smash hit, but definitely keeps me receiving a check in the mail every month, which means that my creations are being worn on ears, arms and necks outside of my circle of family and friends.

So, I received this W-9 form, which I have never had to fill out before for doing consignment. I am actually very familiar with the form as I have to get those that do contract work with my job to fill them out in order to get paid. Although familiar, I never really took the time to get familiar with the forms for my own purposes. As a matter of fact, subconsciously I didn’t want to be involved with them, although I knew sooner or later I would need to in order to properly fill out tax forms for my businesses. Notice I said businesses with an s (but that is for a different blog).

The section that got me sweating said sole proprietor, LLC, and some other options besides other, that I cannot recall off the top of my noggin. I was sure that I could pass with checking other until I read exactly what other entailed (nothing that I could subscribe to).

I consulted a great lawyer friend at that moment and asked if it was possible that I would get penalized if I just checked other without an explanation. Of course, she said sooner or later it would catch up with me, and that I should just register as soon as possible. The law may be slow to cash in their monetary reward, but when they do, they manage to try and take you for all you are worth in addition to the pair of draws on your behind.

I took the plunge and did so the next evening. With the assistance of my friend, the process was almost painless and as a result, my business is birthed:

Exo 31 Art LLC

I am blessed to be in such company that can give me advice on how to get these matters straightened out. She did so effortlessly, as if she did it in her sleep daily, and without looking for compensation. The saying “you reap what you sow” is indeed correct. Lord knows that I have been diligent in sowing wonderful seeds, not because I have the intuition to do so on my own, but because the Christ in me demands me to do so. So, I say thank you to all those that sow good for the sake of sowing for the greater good.

Pearls of Wisdom:
Your little hands in the big hands of GOD always equals success, even if that success is not immediately tangible.

Be blessed!

I Rocked My Vote...and You?

2008-11-04T19:51:00.000-05:00

People I did it…I have successfully cast my vote for our next President. As a matter of fact, as I pulled up to the polls, I cried as Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna Come” played on the radio. A barrage of memories came to the forefront of my memory…the strongest one being a story shared by my pastor this past Sunday. He shared the story of his great grandmother, and how she walked just to cast her vote. It went something like she walked 12 miles to where she was to vote for them to tell her that she was not from that district. She walked to the next district she was sent…another 15 miles or so. She arrived to her destination for them to tell her, “Nigger, you are too late to vote.” She didn’t get to vote that year, but was sure to be the first in line to vote the next year.

When I think about voting, I think about the above and much more. I think about my ancestors who had to go through so much, just so that I could have this right. I think about their unselfish act of being sprayed with fire hoses, bitten by dogs, beaten by the masses (physically, mentally, and spiritually), lynched, and killed in all sorts of despicable fashions; all for the benefit of me.This was actually the first time casting my vote for a President. One may call it sad, and some may say that I should be ashamed, but I am not. I have come to understand that we all have our downfalls, and I am not at all left out from that category. However, I am thankful that I have understood the error of my ways, and have made the change. This is what life is about….change! A change for the better, and a change for the good.

You may have figured from the paragraph above concerning “change” that I voted for Barack Obama…and yes, you would be right. However, I didn’t vote for him because he is a black man that shares white blood (like most of us), but simply because he has a better regime. He has a better plan to pick America out of the muck and mire that we are presently sinking in. As I listened to the Steve Harvey show this morning, a guest had a good point. We vote for a better America…period. We all must coexist and aside from Barack being black, he is still an American. An American that I believe would make drastic changes for the better if elected into office. Despite all of this, win, lose or draw, this is a big step for America period!

I thank God that I have been able to take part in this smidgen of history. I am grateful that I have not continued to take for granted that which my ancestors sweat, bled and died for. I am thankful for being able to understand the importance of praying for the will of God to be done over my own with this election, and continuing to pray regardless the outcome.

Be blessed!

The Perfect Kiss!

2008-10-21T22:28:00.007-04:00

It has been a while. It seems like the more I declare I am going to do this thing more frequently, the more it lingers and falls into this lull. The funny thing is, I have so much to say on a daily basis.

Anywho...I wanted to post some responses that I have received from the prior post, asking what the perfect kiss felt like. Not to my surprise, all of the responses were great and unique in their own right.

LoveBabz: Ahh the perfect kiss feels like I am flying. Like I am weightless. Like the whole world is standing still waiting for me to catch my breath. It is like heat that begins in your toes and moves up your back exploding from your lips. It is passionate and gentle all at the same time. It is sweet and salty (sigh).

Kora: I have been kissed. It was by a lover and it was romantically. I was coming home from a long day at school and he just opened his arms and gave me a hug and a kiss, to tell me he was there and whatever happened is all over.

Kristen S.: It takes your breath away. You are not even where you were when the kiss first started. Everything around you is in a swirling blur.

Monique: Makes you feel like you are in la la land.

Nina W.: Not too long, not too short, a little bit of tongue. It has to be meaningful, fresh breath, and not sloppy.

Mackenzie C.: Small, intimate, not sloppy, like the... I don't even know how to explain it. I am so picky.

Gene C.: It has to be meaningful. I don't know, I never though about this.

Evan: I like kissing shorter women. To have them stare into my eyes and look up at me, and for me to share the same experience. I can embrace her as she leans in. You have a different vantage point. From my perspective, their eyes almost always close first. I like that. It is indicative of how to proceed. I like to open my eyes while kissing to see their reaction. Lots of tongue action. Long, passionate, and sloppy!

Renee' D.: Meaningful! Soft lips, open mouth, tongue but not too powerful, and hands behind the back of the neck.

Peg: Soft, tender, not wet and sloppy, lingering. You have to experience the perfect kiss to know it. I am a sucker for a good kiss!

As I thought about writing this entry, I struggled with answering the same question that I have asked others to answer. At times my imagination is rather vivid and descriptive to say the least. Of course I am being candid and whenever one is candid, there is exposure into the innermost thoughts of parts of who they are.

Again, this is my thought of an ideal kiss, and/or the scenario and emotions that go along with it. I don't carelessly give kisses away. In my mind, they are intimate and to be shared with someone special. However, when I sat down to write this short piece, I did have a particular individual in mind. An individual not from the past, but one that is in my present...one that I am intrigued with getting to know more about.

I'm not sure I can handle the soft, unspoken grace of your lips upon mine at this moment.
The distinct sweet aroma of your breath, slightly salty taste of your lips, and honey dipped flavor of the tip of your tongue.

Your lips lay ground work for impure and unholy thoughts
If I am completely honest, it is liable to encourage actions beyond the simple exchange of affection from my lips to yours, and vice versa
You accepting the natural juices that emanate from my oral cavity and even deeper, the mingling/sharing of our spiritual beings

Time halted, almost ceasing to exist
Oblivious to that which is around us deeply engaged and focused on that which is taking place between us

We create a melody

One that is all our own
Varying rhythms, changing tempos, diverse degrees of moisture
Icy cold, steaming hot, temperature difference

Soft, tender, and passionate
Suction and nibbles releasing endorphins
Blocking pain receptors turning an otherwise unpleasurable experience into a gratifying one

Too much to lose
Perhaps something to gain
Too many dormant feelings that stand to be exposed
Too many years past of silent kisses kept between me, myself, and I that have begged to be free

There you have it folks. I truly thank those that have given their input. I look forward to reading more of your responses. Keep them coming...they are very much so appreciated.

Be Blessed!

Some Kisses From Luscious Lips!

2008-09-27T19:24:00.005-04:00

XXmuahXX is coming along nicely. It's debut pic is posted below, and I have worked on it since, so it is ever evolving.

So, I have changed it's scope a bit and have another question for the reading audience:

What does the perfect kiss feel like to you?

I am hoping that this will draw more of a descriptive response.

The Art Front

Photography:

I finished the wedding pics that I spoke of in previous posts. I created a DVD, and am extremely pleased with the outcome. It was a rather long video, so posting it here is not an option. An opportunity to shoot another wedding has presented itself from this wedding.

Painting:

Aside from my own paintings, I have been asked by a friend of the family to paint a mural on a room wall. Word of mouth advertisement has proven to be very kind to me. This friend of the family has passed the word on and I now have yet another gig.

Jewelry:

My sister has been talking me up to some shops in Delaware. It looks like I may be in another store in this area soon.

All in all folks, I am thankful to the man above that things are on the up and up. I am holding the many balls that I am juggling fairly well, and must say that I am loving it.

Words of Wisdom

Management means, in the last analysis, the substitution of thought for brawn and muscle, of knowledge for folkways and superstition, and of cooperation for force. It means the substitution of responsibility for obedience to rank, and of authority of performance for the authority of rank.

~Peter Drucker

Be Blessed!

Is it for Sale?

2008-09-24T23:23:00.014-04:00

I have to say that I have been extremely blessed. So much so that it is beyond measure and certainly more than I have ever thought or could have imagined. My creativity is speaking for itself and taking flight all on its own.

The mini photo shoot that I had about 2 weeks ago for a 40th renewing of vows ceremony, went well. I have posted a few pics to the side. I took over 300 or so shots. I managed to edit them, and plan to send them off the their perspective home over the weekend.

XXmuahXX is well underway. I plan to have it done within the next couple of weeks...meaning two weeks. It's not as large as some of the other pieces that I have shown, but nonetheless very interesting. I will post progression pictures in the near future

So, the question has been, "Are my pieces in the market to be sold?" The answer to that question at the moment would be...yes and no. The pieces that I have been posting for your viewing pleasure and feedback are not on sale at the moment. I am in the process of getting my pieces in some galleries and need to make sure that my portfolio is forever building. However, there are a few (and I do mean a few) at the moment that are in the market to be sold outside of the body of work that I am currently working on. They are not really anything like what I have been working on, but if I may toot my own horn...fabulous just the same. LOL! Of course I will be posting the galleries where my art is being displayed. If it is in a city near you and you feel inclined to purchase a piece, that would be great!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.

~Melodie Beattie

Be Blessed!

XXmuahXX

2008-09-09T18:22:00.012-04:00

I have finished the button piece that I was working on and ventured onto yet another piece. Interesting it is to say the least and has been on my mind since I have been in that loving kind of mood.

The title is XXmuahXX. Its birth started perhaps a few weeks ago as I sat and spoke to my mother about kisses. I rambled on and on about the good ones, the bad ones, the missed ones, so forth and so on. I simply explained just how much I desired to be kissed.

It strikes me as strange that at a young age I looked at kissing as just that…kissing. It felt wonderful as my young hormones raged. However, in my aging and as Lovebabz would say, coming into my “grown woman”, I have grown to seek kisses for different reasons. I have grown to understand that a kiss is not simply just a kiss….as the song goes. It’s much more. It denotes so much: friendship, love, care, honesty, etc.

Kisses act as a sort of binding contract, and at times serve as a sign of betrayal. They normally take place at the beginning and the end of interacting with another individual. You kiss a family member or friend when you first come into their presence and then before you leave. A kiss between lovers is shared during the beginning of the courtship phase and often at the end of the courtship (mostly if ended amicably). Lovers kiss to engage and end a particular act of sexual intimacy.

Kisses can be simple and complicated all at the same time. They can be sweet, but bitter. They can be loving, yet unforgiving. They can be passionate, yet mean nothing. They can be innocent, but mean the world. They can be passive, yet aggressive. They can be fearful, but exhilarating. They have the ability to make you smile and cry all at the same time.

Simply put…lips are wonderful body parts that God has made, and kisses are simple nuggets of joy that can be shared with others through them. So, XXmuahXX is a homage to all of the fabulous kinds of kisses.

QUESTIONS FOR YOU
Have you given a kiss or been kissed lately?
Where did it take place?
Where was the kiss placed?
What type of kiss was it?
What was your experience?

*As many of you know, I combine my writing with my pieces. I would love to gain feedback in order to place some of it in my piece. If you would like to forward this on to others, that would be great. The more the merrier. There is a possibility that it may or may not be used. Thanks you so much!

Be Blessed!

The End or the Beginning?

2008-08-26T21:02:00.004-04:00

As my life has begun to become consumed with my various responsibilities, I played with the idea of ceasing to continue this blog. I haven't been able to give it the time that I had originally planned to do at its start. I also found myself writing more about who I was, and the many things that was swirling around in my head as oppose to the artwork that I was creating. To the outside world it may have seemed that the two didn't coincide, but to me...they do. But as I really started to think about things...I need to continue. I will continue. I need to push through even when I don't feel like doing so. So, here goes folks. I will blog about my artwork. I will blog about my random thoughts. I will blog about school. I will blog about whatever I so please to blog about!

Playing Catch Up

I have recently started school. Yes...me...school! I never thought that I would be the one that would attend school after declaring never to return approximately 8 years ago. Although I like to do what I would call "recreational writing", I never became fond of technical writing. You know...the papers that can run 20 pages or so. However, the opportunity to become schooled in something that I always wanted to do, without the paper drama arose, and it was so unlike me to say no.

I said yes...and in return, school has said yes to me. It is showing in my grades, which I am grateful to be able to say. I will have completed my program in March of 09, with my National Certification as a Massage Therapist. Unconventional, yet so me. I am loving it you all. I am enjoying the practical portion the most. Where can you go get an education and get a massage daily. It's a beautiful thing.

The Art Front

Photography: I am going to be photographing a great friend of the families 40th wedding anniversary in mid September. I happened to take some shots at a cousin of mines surprise birthday party last month, in preparation for the wedding anniversary. I am trying to take Buddy plenty of places to make sure that I am up to par.

Jewelry: I am happy to announce that the jewelry in Elle Bee is doing well. My pieces are selling, which is the ultimate goal.

Buttons: I am finishing the piece that I am currently working on this evening. I have only a couple of stiches left to complete and it will be a finished work. It's exciting. I have to say out of the whole series, I draw to this piece the most. It chronicles the relationship/courtship between a man and a woman.

Pearls of Wisdom:
I am still on this whimsical love ride you all. Not that love has come yet, but the idea of the love that awaits me has me feeling marvelous.

The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances: if there is any reaction, both are transformed.
~Carl Jung

Be Blessed!

Enamored With Buddy

2008-07-29T15:45:00.008-04:00

I have taken Buddy out for numerous occassions now. I find myself just wanting to take him out wherever I go. Sidebar: For those that have not had the pleasure of reading...Buddy is my camera. End Sidebar.

The train is always a source of fascination for me. The tracks, the signs, the waiting areas, inside or outside stops, and those that are waiting to aboard. It's a place where some folks spend massive amounts of time and others use minimally.

I have more recently been interested in alleys. I can't explain exactly why. Perhaps it is the fact that they are dingy, but yet have so much character attached to them. I can remember passing an alley way in the wee hours of the morning while walking to work in Philly. It would be dark, but this particular alley would be illuminated by the pastry shop that stood at the it's end.

Graffiti and murals are also a thing for me, especially when they are well done. It's truly phenomenal how people can pull together to get something as massive as a mural accomplished. It is also pretty swift of a graffiti artist to pull off his/her work (tags) on a strict time constraint and having to constantly look over their shoulder.

Pearls of Wisdom:
"If you love what you do, then it is no longer work. The money you earn is secondary when you love your work." ~Catherine Pulsifer, a quote from Love What You Do

Are you loving what you do today?

Be Blessed!

Sore Fingers Return

2008-07-24T13:34:00.007-04:00

I am finally back to the button series. It is going smashingly well. It is actually going better than I expected, as it has been a minute since I have attended to it. I am assuming that is why it is going so well. My buttons need lots of love and attention, and so do my fingers. They become extremely sore during the process. So, I have vowed to do the button piece in small spurts..perhaps one or two a month, depending on the size of the particular piece.

Other Art Updates:

Photography: I have been using Buddy quite a bit. I have committed to taking him out at least once a week and sometimes more than that. It is wonderful the things that are available to be photographed. Often times it is the unsuspected things that create a fabulous photo. In another week or so, I am looking to post some of the pictures that I have taken on this photography site.

Paintings: I painted another panel in a series on my niece and nephews. I didn't like it at all. I would say that I hated it, but I love the subject...(otherwise known as "my kids"). Even though I didn't like the way that things were turning out, I decided to push through and finish it anyway. I once heard the creator of The Joy of Living Creatively say that an artist does not always like everything that he/she creates. However, an artist should not let that one faux pas stop them from creating masterpieces. The ideal is to push through that particular piece to get to the next piece. I have vowed to push through so that my creativity is never stagnant.

Jewelry: The ETSY page is up. I haven't made any sales as of yet, but then again I haven't made the effort to put much more on there since about 2 weeks ago. I have created some more jewelry, but I just need to put it on the website. That is me being a bit lazy on that end. I will find out how things are selling at Elle Bee Studio by the end of this month. The check in the mail will tell me. Other than that, I have been getting lots of compliments on the pieces that I have been wearing. It is making a buzz around town and selling itself for the most part.

Pearls of Wisdom:

I've been in a loving kind of mood for the last couple of weeks. So, just bare with a sister and allow the love that has been so graciously given to me spill over and engulf you! ENJOY!

"You can’t make someone love you, all you can do is be someone who can be loved, the rest is up to the person to realize your worth." -Unknown

Be Blessed!

I Went ETSY!!!

2008-07-14T17:53:00.003-04:00

Hey all!!! I have been a little off kilter when it comes to blogging. There is so much that I want to say, but I find it hard to sit down and just do what I am supposed to do...write. So I am here now with some overdo updates.

Jewelry: Okay...my pieces are in the Elle Bee store. I am not aware if they are selling, but I will know by the end of the month. My sister friend Lovebabz has purchased some of my goods and is pleased. Thank you Love! And I went ETSY you all. I am now selling my wearable works of art there. The site address is as follows: http://www.exo31artist.etsy.com/ I don't have much on the site as of yet, but keep posted, there will be more to come. Visit the site, let me know what you think and if you like...pass the word on. Oh and Torrance...I haven't forgotten about you! I am doing some research to get you some slamming doggy wearable art.

Photography: Buddy has not been in use aside from me taking shots of my jewelry. When I purchased Buddy I said that I was going to shoot at least once a week. Ask me how many times I shot....not much. It's funny, I have a phobia of taking Buddy out. I know it sounds weird, but a part of me does. I will get out of it real soon as I paid too much to keep it under raps and not used.

Buttons: I actually haven't worked on the buttons in a minute. They are still in the making though.

Paintings: I have just started a new diptych on mirrors. I am loving the concept thus far. It will be up here in a couple of days as it shouldn't take me more than that to finish.

Pearls of Wisdom:
We become just by doing just acts, temperate by doing temperate acts, brave by doing brave acts. -Aristotle

Leaving anonymous quotes is cowardly. Be brave and do a brave act by stating exactly who you are.

The Drop Off

2008-06-29T17:22:00.002-04:00

It took me some time, but I have finally made the "drop off". I know, it sounds like I made a run for the street pharmaceutical man, delivering the oooh wee...the candy...the snow...the dope...etc. However, that is not the case. I actually made a drop off of another kind, but do want to address the drop off spoken about above...if I may, briefly.

I watched "American Gangsta" the other week. The movie was long, but it kind of warmed my heart in the end. Again, I don't condone that behavior (he could have put his savvy intelligence to work for good from jump), but it offered hope to those that are involved in the game (often times who sadly know no better). The main character Frank Lucas was a natural leader, intellectual, and a go getter. He was calm about his business...low key and never flashy. He managed to come up with what I would dare to say was an excellent business plan. It was so savvy that at the height of his career, his per diem was approximately one million. His reign lasted for a minute, and would have lasted even longer had those that were working with him (his family) had the preservation of the business in mind. He ended up helping out the leader of the narc unit on the case and getting off with somewhere between 9 and 15 years in the slammer. He came out and now lives what is seen as a somewhat normal life. In his own words he is doing the following:

Lucas: I do whatever I got to do. I'm putting things together, trying to
build a facility where kids can go play ball and whatever. I'm waiting on the
mayor right now to get another space to go ahead and do that. I got some help on
the way, and I want to try to put that to use. I'm working with my daughter,
Francine. ... I'm getting some finances lined up now so I can do it. I want to
be remembered for helping these kids. If I can get them to follow what I ask
them to do, I'll be happy. http://www.mtv.com/movies/news/articles/1573648/20071106/story.jhtml

The story spoke volumes to me. It proved to me the following:
-There are cases where people go to jail, come out and can live decent lives.
-One can fall down, but the mark of a true man (or woman) is one that can get up from their mistake and turn it into something wonderful for others.
-In life, we give to get and get to give.
-Sometimes those who strive to look out for self, end up looking out for you too.
-Once we've waddled in the mud, it is our duty to see that those around us avoid getting dirty the way we did.

I just needed to get that off my chest. I have folk (as Mr. Stephens over at rawdawgb would say) on lock down for various reasons, and I need them to know that they can make it. It is never too late...as long as there is breath in your body to turn over a new leaf. Now into...My Drop Off!

I am officially featured in the

Elle Bee Studio store

in Manasquan, NJ.

I took the items on Friday, and had the pleasure of meeting the store owner...who was a gem. She is a jeweler herself and liked the goods. There is nothing better than knowing that another artist likes your work. The shop is about a mile from the beach, and there is a bead store around the corner that is like a beaders heaven. And it doesn't stop there folks. My sister traveled with me (thanks Kiwi) and wanted to eat at this restaurant we passed. We stopped in there and asked for a menu. It turned out not to be the restaurant that we were looking for, but it worked out to my benefit anyhow. We started to chit chat with the woman that greeted us. I told her why we were in Manasquan and she stated that the restaurant was looking to possibly have jewelry classes on Thursday night for their ladies night. Now, the store is about an hour and fifteen minutes from my home, and in all seriousness it may cost me more to get down there than what they would pay me for the class. However, I am a firm believer that God always makes provisions for the vision that He has put in motion. Things will go the way that He desires them to.

So people, there you have it! There will be much more on the horizon for sure. And on another note, I am extremely grateful today that I have lived to see my 29th year today. God is real yall! If you don't know, please ask, and I will surely let you know. The fact that I am alive and have the use of my limbs to explore the gifts that God has given me, is a beautiful thing.

Thank you JESUS!

Pearls of Wisdom:

Do what you do best. To do someone else never serves you or others justice.

Be Blessed!

An "I Wonder..." Day

2008-06-17T08:08:00.009-04:00

Have you ever had an "I wonder..." day? I wonder how I got here, but I'm glad that I'm here or I wonder how I got here, but I've got no clue how to get out? I've been on both ends of the stick, but within the last couple of days, it seemed to be the later of the two scenarios.

The great things:

I have taught my first jewelry beading class. It went smashingly well. It was a private lesson and the woman was so pleased that she is scheduling another class. She made a pair of drop earrings that she allowed her daughter to wear out of the store. They looked great! I will hopefully have some pics of my students work to put here a little later.

I have recently joined a photography website. The people have been very welcoming thus far. I look forward to posting my work there for some feedback, and being able to identify photography contests that are legit for me to enter.

I jazzed up my studio a bit. I hung lots of some previous prints that I have done in order to inspire me while I am there. It's a space that I feel real comfy going to now. Before, I had no choice...I had to do my work somewhere. However, now...I am sort of elated to be able to get down there to work.

The "I wonder how I got here, and what do I do":

Lots of thought have gone into the things below.

I took my car to the dealership yesterday for them to check out my breaks and tire rods. I asked for an oil change and a 25 point inspection. They came back stating that they could do none of the above. Why? The nut or bolt (or whatever you choose to call it) is stuck; the pan cannot be emptied. It seems the thread is stripped. That means that they have to replace the whole pan. The cost of that is roughly 1,200 dollars. I laughed when they told me. I thought it was hilarious, as I just paid 1,200 in February to fix some computer issues so that it could pass inspection. Oh, and it doesn't stop there folks. As I went to the back to check out the screw that could not be unscrewed, the mechanic pointed something else out. The piece that you take down to get to the oil pan that is supposed to be held by bolts, is held by ties. Yes people...TIES! You know the plastic devices that hold items down in stores in hopes that thieves don't walk away with items that are not theirs....kind of ties. I felt like hitting the deck at that point. It was only God (and the woman that was gracious enough to pray with me) that allowed me to walk out of that place with my head up. As I got home I did my research and found out that my car had never had an oil change. The last place just topped the oil off, which just reinforced that I was ripped off by the place I bought the car from. I started to think about all the things I could do to their establishment. How I could give them bad press if I wanted too. How I could go and picket in front of their store. As I thought, I was reminded that cheaters never prosper. I was reminded that they don't get to get my joy. I was reminded that there are wicked folks here on earth and there will always be. I was reminded I am not fighting that particular person, but a spirit that lives within them. Bottom line....they aren't worth my aggravation! I will ride Dayton (my car) until I can't ride him any longer. And I have a feeling that will be a long time...or at least I pray so.

I am faced with yet another decision as far as my job goes, which has really been a blessing. There is a possibility that my current part-time position will go full-time. It may not be within the next couple of months, but then again it may. Things on the art end are going well, but have not opened up enough to completely stop working as of yet. However, I do need a position such as the one that I have that offers me some flexibility to do my thing. I have to be honest and say that after weeks of thinking about this, I am not too worried. I know the God that I serve has

provided for me thus far, will continue to do so. Nerve racking....maybe. Impossible....NEVER!

So there you have it folks. The things that make me say "hmmmm". The things that just cause me to wonder. There are a few other things that I could ramble about, but let us just say that I am making my way to greener pastures. The season is about to change in a couple of days, and I am believing that there are great changes occurring for me around the bend.

Pearls of Wisdom:

Summer is the time when one sheds one's tensions with one's clothes, and the right kind of day is jeweled balm for the battered spirit. A few of those days and you can become drunk with the belief that all's right with the world."

-Ada Lewis Huxtable

Be Blessed!