Art in Every Day

"The Peony: A Kiss of Bliss"

2009-06-22T23:17:00.025-05:00

(double-click for a peony kiss!)
I am smitten.

Peonies.

Their beauty and presence intoxicates my soul...

...especially peonies like these:

voluptuous,

feathery blooms,

....with a flirt of pink.

Yes, they've cast a spell over me.

They transport me to an "other" place.
Imbibing them visually, experiencing their presence...
is a kiss...of bliss.
A meditation of...
embodied gratitude.
A prayer answered.

* * *

Double-click on the photos

to "experience" the heavenly vibration

of these gorgeous Goddess Flowers...

their life-size Presence is breathtaking!

They continue to sweep me away

to an "other" world....
It's a soul love affair.

* * *

If I were a flower...
I would be the Peony...
Delicate,
other-worldy,
heavenly fragrant,
grace & beauty endlessly-unfolding.
A short-lived bloom....
and yet...
long-lived in the minds

and hearts
of those who knew me,
...a kiss...of bliss.
* * *
So...what flower would you be?

Lattices in Winter: "Anticipation"

2009-02-22T20:22:00.007-06:00

My Art in Every Day walk today revealed these bare lattices.

They fill me

with anticipation

of what is to come:

beautiful...

blooming...

colorful...

cascading

flowers.

It reminds me of the importance of our foundation; and how we too are challenged in the seasons of our lives to stand firm as needed...to bear the winters so we can support the harvest of our flowering life-seeds...our intentions...which bloom into... beautiful, colorful, and cascading...flowers of our life - vivid with color and emotion...

passion and inspiration...

seed pods...and transformation...

reflections...and lessons...

and blessings.

I'm at the Oasis!

2009-02-16T04:10:00.003-06:00

Come on over! ...visit me at my blog: the Mandala Oasis !

"Lovee" - Intention Doll

2008-11-03T21:34:00.005-06:00

Once my friend Brenda heard about, and saw my Intention Doll... she ordered one of her own...custom with her specific intent. Words cannot express how rewarding it is to create these dolls - each one (2 so far...and working on the third ordered by another friend) - not only a unique doll...but a unique experience...it's like giving birth....I'm sort of ...the Stork... delivering the dolls to their new family ..after Spirit creates. By the way... Brenda loved her doll!

I just love this process, and I'm so glad that I found out about Lisa Sorce Schmitz, and the healing art she facilitates at her Studio, Whispers from the Moon...which you can read about here. She offers a banquet of goodies for the soul; one of which will be my SoulCollage workshop on January 24, 2009 - which you can read about here.

Intention Doll

2008-11-03T21:14:00.005-06:00

What an amazing experience...creating this "Intention Doll" - at a workshop faciliated by Lisa, owner of Whispers From the Moon. The photos can't capture the charm and presence of this doll, but believe me...she is something special. The workshop was truly an experience of creative bliss. It's like 3D Soul Collage!

Speaking of SoulCollage....I'll be facilitating a SoulCollage Workshop at Whispers from the Moon on January 24, 2009! If you're in the Chicago area want to attend the workshop, - OR be added to my mailing list...send me an e-mail: cherylsworld at hotmail.com - I'll be happy to add your name.

Dialing it down...

2008-08-02T14:56:00.009-05:00

Teri has inspired me to try more Haikiu, so...here goes:

Coming in for a landing
It's the purple path
Sacred balance is the way

In an effort to dial down the pace of my life...and create more time for simply being, as well as to further nurture and develop my creative dreams...I will not be posting here for a while. I will however, post from time to time on my Mandala Oasis and SoulCollage blogs; so please...come visit me there! And in case you don't know yet... I am overjoyed that we've created a creative & kindred community at the Mandala Oasis Yahoo! Group, which you are welcome to join us if you'd like to explore your creativity and inner-landscape in a spontaneous way.

Please know, it has been most rewarding getting to know you all over the last year; and your presence has enriched my life more than you might know. Take care...be well...be creative..and keep shining your light! I'll hope to see you at my Mandala Oasis blog.

Love,
Cheryl
P.S. The orange text is a live link

Star Mandala

2008-06-21T23:14:00.017-05:00

This star mandala is on it's way to Jillian Curtis and her sons in Minnesota for a memorial project they have created; details of the project are *here. I colored it specifically for Jillian's project using PrismaColor markers. The beautiful mandala design is by *Clare Goodwin . If you would like to contribute a star, or stars of any kind, Jillian can be contacted through her blog*. She would be delighted to hear from you. ~ Namaste.

You can see my hand-drawn mandalas on this blog, as well as on on my new mandala blog, here* -- Thanks for coming by!

*(live link)

Mother Nature's Mandalas

2008-06-13T22:45:00.011-05:00

Don't ya just love the way Mother Nature creates her own mandalas? And...I just love her flower mandalas, especially these - a series of clusters is quite unique.
A few days after my birthday...I opened my office door and this batch of potted mums...(did you know mums could be so beautiful?!)... greeted me like a choir! They were so perky & colorful ..and gorgeous...I swear they were swaying when I walked in! They were a gift from a thoughtful, sweet guy who waters my plants for me, long after I've forgotten about them.

There are so many things and reasons to be thankful, and natural beauty and color raises that "gratitude vibration"...family and friends raise it a thousand fold!

"Beauty is truth, and truth... beauty." ~J. Keats.

Oasis Mandala

2008-06-09T02:10:00.017-05:00

Deep in the center, benevolent energy radiates from deep within the layers. Ripples shimmy-out and touch the whole...sending gentle shock waves from bud, to petal, to bloom...then stem...and...the entire bloomin' galaxy......calling back to itself all that is familiar......sounding to the kindred invitation:

"Come....let us gather and quench our creative souls together..at the Oasis."

Hello everyone and mandala enthusiasts especially... My love of the mandala process, and a good friend, has inspired me to start an online community. You are invited to join us at the new and exciting Mandala Oasis - a kindred Yahoo! Community that focuses on the intuitve art of making your own mandalas...their inspirations and insights. In honor of this and the one year I've been on this mandala journey...I have created a new blog just for mandalas! I look forward to still seeing you here though, where I will continue to post other creative musings, insights and gratitude.

"The only way to truly understand mandalas is to draw them." ~Michael Brown Ed. S. ~from Meeting the Mandala, by Clare Goodwin

Whispering Petals Mandala & the Creativity Club Sandwich (CED 2008)

2008-05-27T21:33:00.024-05:00

The flower petals in this mandala twirl and reveal their whisperings of harmony and nurturance: grace, joy, trust, shadow, light, giving, gratitude and more. I find it a bit mesmorizing. It actually feels like the petals are twirling a litte, like a windmill catching a breeze. I'm transported to a place of slowing down, and being present to the moment.

Being an "everyday creative", as Eric Maisel mentions in his, The Creativity Book - soothes my soul like nothing else. Creative expression creates a silent conversational dance between the greater part of me that stands ajar noticing what I'm doing, thinking and being - and the rest of me.

My Muse, the guardian angel of my creative spirit, informs me of ways new ways to "sandwich" creativity it into my every day. The good news is it's a Creativity Club Sandwich! Isn't that great?! That means it's double...no, triple-decker creativity of many appetizing pieces! Sometimes the creativity is the main sandwich ingredient, and sometimes it's the condiments, or the garnish...depending on the nuggets of time and place that are available.

A Creativity Club Sandwich...is a small yet, potent way we can be everyday creatives. This mandala was made that way, on dayplanner paper one bite at a time over a few days. So now, any impatience lessens while waiting in line, or at the drive thru, or at an appointment. Now...a seeming-delay becomes a Creative Oasis calling for you to dive in and take a bite (or a nibble) of the Creativity Club Sandwich that has materialized before you. ~ Yes...creativity one bite at a time and sandwiched into our everday life. Delicious!

Like many of us, my artist-cyberfriend Leah is an "everyday creative" too. She's created her wildly successful and fun Creative Every Day 2008 project, which I am giddily thrilled to be a part of! - Leah's project has grown from being held once a year, to an ongoing project throughout 2008. Thank you, Leah! You can click on over to her site...and check it out!

One more thing, can someone please help me...? Do you know why there's a bluish tint in the background of my photos? And, can you tell me how I can fix it? I appreciate any help you can give. Thanks!

Mountainous Whimsy! (CED 2008)

2008-05-26T02:12:00.014-05:00

Oh what fun

"creating on the fly" is! Giving myself a limited time in the spirit of play...and who knows what will show up. This is another creation on blank dayplanner paper. So, now I'm caling these "Dayplanner Doodles".

Thank goodness for portable creativity! Some people carry books on their daily commute (which I alternate those :) but often I carry markers or colored pens, and blank paper in my dayplanner; and..I have an extra stash of markers at work for when I'm on the phone and on "hold". My friend Pattie calls those "Phone Doodles". It's a beautiful thing... to take a minute here and there to draw without mental investment in the outcome....to do it for creativity's sake...and to delight our creative spirit.

Sometimes I look at this dayplanner doodle, and it feels a little creepy...like it could walk in all directions simultaneously...now that IS creepy!..yikes! And...at other times it feels like fun that has broken out all over....one big party! (What does it look like to you?) - And that eye at the bottom...it's watching over us to remind us...to have fun, be creative, take time to smell the flowers...and give ourselves permission for all of this ...and more. Give it a try...see what you come up with doodling a little bit here, a little bit there...and if you'd like to share it...I'd love to see it!

This is entry #2 for Inspire Me Thursday, click here to see #1. This also doubles as an entry for Leah's inspiring project: Creative Every Day 2008 (click to see it).

The Color Purple

2008-05-23T23:45:00.026-05:00

Now this is the Art in Every Day I'm talking about! This beauty welcomes our

appreciation of it. It was a wondrously, glorious and beautiful day to celebrate Nature's beauty at the Lilac Festival!

Who would have thought there are so many different varieties and shades of lilacs! The wind was blowing when I took that first photo...but even though it's a little blurry...it makes it easier for you to smell the lilac's windblown fragrance...right?

Appreciating and sharing Mother Nature's jewels is another way to honor being Creative Every Day*. The Lilac Fest donned bountiful, fragrant and numerous varieties of lilacs.
.
We heard lots of "ooos" and "ahhhs"...and we were giddy as we stopped to "smell the flowers". The clear blue sky and Spring breeze werethe perfect backdrop to show off these lilacious gems!

Isn't this one gorgeous! Its color is a pinkish purple, and the flowers grow elongated on the branch vs. in clusters like the others.

Nature's beauty knows no boundaries... it overflows...and grows. What a gift to have such beauty around us.

Thank you God, thank you Universe, thank you Spirit, thank you Mother Nature, thank you Father Sun...thank you... thank you... thank you...for this captivating slideshow of your creativity.
.
*Click that link above,or the badge on my sidebar to see Leah's "Creative Every Day 2008" project -

A Smile of Whimsy

2008-05-23T22:42:00.007-05:00

Isn't it interesting that oftentimes the most quirky, fun and fun creative activity comes on a "whim"? You know...

when you decide in the blink of an eye to pick up a marker and squiggle something? ..or you let your hands do what they will and it delights your senses? ...without a left-brained thought? Now THAT..is fun!

That's what happened with this "A Smile of Whimsy" mandala. I created it while doodling on a sheet from my Franklin-Covey dayplanner. It might've been while I was on "hold" during a phone call. I created a section in my planner with blank paper just for just the purpose of capturing my creative whims....and I'm so glad I did! And...it's a perfect fit for this week's theme of "Whimsy" at Inspire Me Thursday click here to see whimsical entry #2 - wow, this was fun!

I find it delightful that certain shapes, colors and a feel of movement in a piece just makes me smile from deep inside. That's why this is "A Smile of Whimsy"...and I'm happy to share it with you! Here's to a day filled with whimsical smiles...from the inside, out!

Dancing Heart

2008-05-15T00:10:00.009-05:00

Wow! Does it feel good to be back in the Land of Blog. I feel refreshed, and feel myself renewing more each day. You know how it is when you need a break from something...and the time away can sometimes allow you to appreciate that thing even more? That's what this time has been for me. Visiting your blogs during this time kept me plugged-in creatively; so thank you for blogging your creative pursuits and your lives...it's a beautiful golden thread that keeps us woven together in spriit.

...And...what better way to re-enter the blogosphere than with the creative promptings of Muse Melanie of Inspire Me Thursday... with the theme of "Doors"....and what better doorway than the heart. Feeling it, listening to it, and heeding it. When I do that life's doors open to me...Life itself opens it's arms wider; when I push too hard...the door's opening isn't as wide. When I let the door of my heart bekon me to it's promptings, (i.e. nurturing myself) everything falls into place. The heart in this mandala is happy...it's an emerging, dancing heart! It's a celebratory, radiating heart...and its door is open...and for that I am thankful.

Thank you to Krissie, Beverly , and Karin - your loving comments on my post yesterday opened my heart's door even more! You all are awesome!

Thank you - I'll be back!

2008-05-13T09:04:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone,
I know it's been a while since I've posted...and my posting patterns have changed a bit...but I will be back! Thank you everyone who's posted a comment, or e-mailed me asking if I'm coming back :) I assure you that I am. Balance, harmony, wholeness, and being present to the moment, inner-listening...all of these I've been working with more intently in my off-line life; I'll be sharing that with you as I begin to post again, more regularly. Thank you all for staying tuned-in to me...and I'll continue to staying in touch with what you're up to via your blogs too. I thank you for your creative inspiration and kindred spirits that continue to share with me.

With love...
Cheryl

Ladders to the Sun

2008-03-04T12:14:00.015-06:00

Hi everyone! I miss you all! I'm ridin' the waves of my many creative passions. Once again my mandala medicine is my North Star. I made this one in November, and several days later I noticed the ladder-looking image...leading to the sun...to greater illumination, health, joy, order and beauty...whatever I am needing.

Whew! I'm determined to balance my creative passions as well as other facets of my life...so many things I like to do! Barbara Sher says those of us who like to do a million different things that we are "renaisssance souls" and talks about this in her book, "Refuse to Choose", which is on it's way to me now! Anyway, I am in SoulCollage® mode now (you can see one of my latest cards here) and loving it. It's what my soul is thirsty for right now. I am making it more a part of my daily/weekly life: making cards, doing readings, discovering more about myself and working through parts that are challenging or try to dominate my life. For instance my "creative/artist part" has been dominating for a long time, and it's time let the part of me that is supposed to handle the business/home-caring of living take center stage. SoulCollage® is unique and helping me balance that out, so I'll be making a card to honor that part of me...and allowing those two parts of myself have a conversation; it's so interesting to work it out this way! I've become my own art therapist!

Creating mandalas is still a part of my menu of practices. Their illuminating power is invaluable...plus, as you know they're relaxing and fun to just let go and "color and play inside the circle". Please keep me posted on the mandalas you make! Just in case you need a refill, here's my prescription for mandala medicine. Happy creating!

Marvelous Moon

2008-02-14T00:08:00.013-06:00

For me, the words
"marvel-
ous" and
"moon" go hand in hand. My daughter's first name means
"like the moon" and her middle name means "marvelous", in Swahili. So, this week's creative prompt - "Faces" - at Inspire Me Thursday was the perfect opportunity to share the face of my Marvelous Moon mandala. Her face is pretty cool to me, and...she has a mystical feel...like she's rolling along in space, sight-seeing the universe and in awe of it all. I suspect I'll glance at her one day and I'll hear volumes of insight. Her journey is indeed a marvelous one...just "like the moon".

Believe! ~ Defying Gravity!

2008-01-09T21:48:00.003-06:00

Whispers from my heart gently, yet strongly sing out...

"Believe". Yes,

"believe" is the guiding intention that's trumpet-

ing me into this new year; and in its wake I hear the words..."dream bigger"..."believe in the possibility...infinite possibilities. Just believe, Cheryl!?
.

What a gift! I know that living in and from that consciousness..allowing it to further blossom within my Being...yields an abundant harvest of love, health, well-being, joy and creativity. Years ago Emily Dickinson wrote, "I dwell in possibility". That's wise counsel even today. To dare to dwell in the possibility of what can be. Ahh...the anchoring contentment of living from that space of infinite possibilities, and "allowing" life to unfold. My heart speaks to, and teaches me from its sacred spaces of non-resistence and possibilities. Yes...we're beginning a new chapter in our Book of Life...365 new pages...each day a blank page of possibilities to fill.
.
This mandala invites me into its mystical center, beckoning me to cross its threshold and enter its exhilarating, transformative Realm of Pure Potentiality...where Infinite Possibilities await our acceptance. So...here's to living in and from our personal Land of Oz...Defying Gravity along the way. I invite you to join me; and..to get us off to a soaring and roaring start, here's inspiration for Defying Gravity...direct from the spell-binding cast of Wicked! click here.

So, I ask..."How will you defy gravity this year?" As for me, I'm allowing myself to really believe! ~ Believe I can: restore health & balance, get to bed earlier, balance my checkbook, dance in the rhythm of life...and create my home as a portrait of my heart...and my art; and to remember to "dwell in possibility" of what can be, believe in myself and the goodness of others...in each moment. Here's to us - defying gravity - and traveling as light as a feather.

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!

2007-12-24T13:24:00.001-06:00

I AM THE NEW YEAR. - I am unused, un-

spotted, without blemish, I stretch before you 365 days long. I will present each day in its turn; a new leaf In the book of life for you to place upon it your imprint.

.
I AM THE NEW YEAR. - Each hour of every day, I will give you 60 minutes that have never known the use of man...white and pure I present them; It remains for you to fill them with 60 jeweled-seconds of love, hope, endeavor, patience, and trust.

.
I AM THE NEW YEAR. - I am coming...but once past, I can never be recalled. Make me your best! ~~(Author, unknown, but very appreciated!)
.

This is one of my favorite declarations/poems/inspirations (this is one of a few versions). May we all receive from this what what speaks to us the most...and may these whispers be our companion as we begin a new page of a new chapter in the book of our lives...one day, one moment, one breath at a time. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!

(P.S. As usual, the Mystical Mandala Medicine continues to inform me of my inner-life. I had no idea this mandala would evovle into a Christmas-ornament/holiday spirt energy. Hmm...I've got more of the Christmas spirit that I realized. -- This mandala. I created this in early December. -- (Submitted to Inspire Me Thursday "Holiday" prompt.)

Meet Kamaria!

2007-12-24T12:26:00.000-06:00

I'd like you to meet Kamaria. She's my beautiful, generous, witty, courageous daughter that I talk about in the "Tag!" post below. So.. here are a few quick morsels about her:

1. She's a stitch! She's very funny...and will have you laughing before you know it, whether she's discussing real life, or telling a funny story.. it's that no-nonsense, quick-witted-clarity that is just so genuine and fair-minded...you can't help but love her.

2. She's creative, in an "inventor" type of way. At age 13 she created a pully-device in her bedroom which she could operate while lying in bed. The purpose of this contraption? To turn off the light switch without her having to get out of bed! She and my dad were bosom buddies...and often made things together in his wood shop. No wonder she loved the movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!..that Dick Van Dyke was always inventing something!

3. Oh my gosh, Kamaria is really good a paradies! She comes up with them in the blink of an eye. In Jr. High, whenever there was tension with a classmate...she'd come home and write a parody based one of the popular songs of the day...using one of the trouble-makers names, and creating lyrics that would just make them...back-off! They were so stunned, they had no come-back...(it kinda messed with their mind)...so they just left her alone. Oh, how powerful our mind is...using words and ingenuity as a neutralizer.

4. Kamaria made it her business to graduate from college in three years, she's now wrapping up her Masters in Corporate & Mass Communications. Her undergrad was in Radio, TV and Film, with a minor in Spanish.

5. She likes music, puzzles, bowling, trying new things; she likes to create/build things, do stuff around the house i.e. cutting the grass, and...she & friends recently layed laminiate wood in her living room; and she's always fine-tuning her vision of what she wants to do in her home...and her life. These are just a few things that she likes.

6. Kamaria is family oriented. When I visit her...I hang out with her and her friends...we have a good time!

What I'm most proud of is...that she's a good person. She's a caring, giving, thoughtful, compassionate Soul. I am so thankful that we've been so blessed to be in this life together, as mom and daughter. I just love her!

Tag! ...I'm "it"

2007-12-24T00:40:00.000-06:00

My friend Megan, of A Month of Todays has tagged me..I don't normally do these...but..what the heck....'tis the season. Here's how this works...I post 7 random tidbits, fact or fiction, about myself... and then three tag others to do do the same...

OK...here goes:
1. I have a beautiful, creative, witty and courageous daugter...she'll soon be 25 years of age.
2. I always wanted to be a school teacher, but was discouraged by another teacher in the 70s due to the surplus of teachers. I would've specialized in English/Language Arts...
3. I'm a Certified Empowerment Coach (aka Life Coach) - a 2003 graduate of IPEC; added to that in 2006 with Jill Badonsky's Creativity Coaches Training; however, my day-job is in broadcast advertising with the ABC Television Network.
4. I've written about 20 poems
5. I majored in Clothing & Textiles in school
6. In 1998 I ran a half-marathon, 2 hours, 12 minutes
7. I'm a homebody
...The End...
So now..I'm tagging: Krissie of Message in a Bottle, Karin of Creative Chaos and Annie of Journey Through Life, and Beverly of Embrace Your Gifts & Soar!
If you decide to participate, here's the way it works: In a post on your blog, link to the person who tagged you (that would be me) and share 7 random and/or weird things about yourself...or make them up(!)...who would know? Then tag 3 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs, along with "the way it works." Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog. Hope you find some fun with this.

Intentions: In Living Color

2007-12-11T01:55:00.001-06:00

Once again...I'm inspired by Krissie's post at her blog, Haiku in a Bottle...I just love it! So I decided to share a Haiku of mine too. Thank you Krissie...and the creators of Haiku Therapy, and Haiku: One Deep Breath.

As the sun rises in this mandala, I reflect on my perinneal intention to live a loving, healthy, fulfilled, joyful and creative life. One that is filled with beauty, color and fun...sprinkled with an abundance of "loved ones"...family & my family of friends...this means you! Ahh, I am indeed...wealthy. Life is good..
.
"Our intentions are
the atmosphere in which we
live our truth out loud"
.
So...here's to living out loud!!...and in living color!

Now You See it, Now You Don't

2007-12-04T01:21:00.000-06:00

Inspire Me Thursday's "Paradox" Challenge:
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Creating intuitively...heck, living intuitively is my prefered way of travel while on this this yellow brick road we call... "life". -- I began this mandala with a few random, intuitive strokes the other night ...just to do a little something creative and colorful before going I went to bed. -- The second night I decided to add a dab of red in the middle..just a few strokes...then off to bed. -- The next night it caught my eye while reading...so I added more red...first on the lower-right. Oooo! I liked that! And...then the upper arc...then the lower-left portion begged for red's attention. The next thing I knew I had the red planet, Mars...peaking from behind geometric windows of apple green, indigo and shades of violet....or did I? Where'd it go?!! It was there a minute ago! --Arrrrgg!! -- Oh..there is is! "Now you see it ...Now you don't"...Must be a paradox!
Soooo...what do YOU see?

The Bottom of My Heart

2007-11-27T22:06:00.004-06:00

Art Every Day Month ~

"Love...

from the bottom of my heart."

This mandala puzzled me at first. Since my mandalas are

"stream of

conscious-

ness" creations,

I remembered to trust the process, even though I didn't like the black; and in trusting...this mandala revealed much to me.

So...tonight as I pondered "The Bottom of My Heart" mandala I now see that its center it's alive and well and robust and red! And, that is the case no matter what...that's the core, the Eternal Truth of the matter; that...no matter what seeming-darkness comes into life...vibrant life is at the center; burning away any clouds, misunderstandings, negative emotions, restlessness....whatever might get in the way of well-being. And...like the Pheonix Rising from the ashes, new life prevails..."renewed life". The black is a reminder of those ashes...and the Phoenix principle, and THAT is a blessing. To quote one of my very first spiritual teachers (whom I think the world of), Louise L. Hay..."Deep at the Center of my being there is an infinite well of love*..." so...may we realize, acknowledge and be guided by it, and feel and live the love, joy and peace it gives. May you be well.

* "Deep at the Center..." is the title of a written piece, consisting of wonderful, uplifting, flowing affirmations of self-love, created by Louise L. Hay. It's been a part of my life since 1990, and reading it aloud creates beautiful shifts within me that I cannot explain. I dare you to read it and not feel good! :) -- You can read it here. - Enjoy...

Celebrating "Art Every Day Month" (click here) - or at least "posting" some art in some of those "every days" LOL!!

My Unique Way

2007-11-12T22:53:00.000-06:00

Art Every Day Month -- Out of this world! -- at least in my subconscious. These lines and angles keep showing up!! What's up with that? I'm not usually drawn to them...but here they are! Hmm...I'll have to let this sit with me...incubate a while and invite Insight to come. What flashes in my mind as I write this is: I normally have a difficult time following a "straight and narrow" structure of doing things; although I know it has it's advantages, it not "my way"...it's not the way that energizes me.
.
My natural way of being and doing is the scenic, meandering route....letting myself gradually get into the spirit of what "I" need before I tend to outside needs of the day. This usually includes a leisure cup of tea, gently waking up, consciously breathing, inner-time....a little time with Ike..."easy does it" is key for me. Then...my energy and focus build naturally from that and I'm on my way, otherwise it can be too jolting, unsettling...discombobulating.
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What it boils down to is recognizing, acknowledging, valuing... and giving myself permission to do things "My Way" as Frank Sinatra would say. Now I get it! That's what the lines and pathways in this mandala are about... they symbolize me staying "my" course, staying on "my" path...and embracing & celebrating "my" unique way of doing things...and to not allow things in my periphery to distract me from following "my" unique way. And what a bold, colorful way it is! Today, may you acklnowledge, embrace and celebrate your unique way...and unique you!

The Cutting Edge

2007-11-05T23:32:00.001-06:00

Art Every Day Month:

Thank you for hanging in there with me during my blogging slow-down, and I love the wonderful comments you left for me :). I've been enjoying creature comforts of the season: a slower pace, staying warm, puttering and enjoying home. I've also been contemplating a crochet/knitting project, and cooking more than usual...but still not that much (ha ha)!

Now...about this mandala. I realized after making it that it's about me realizing my Cutting Edge of awareness, and of "cutting through static"...whatever that means on any given day; be it internal or external static. Actually, it's a reminder to me that "static on the inside = static on the outside", and when it's neutralized within there's no static without, just beautiful life reigns and a deeper, more expanded dimension permeates my experience of living...everything around me is...plush. When that happens my surroundings having a depth that's almost magical...or is it me? That's the amazing experience I have after participating in a community drumming circle where everyone is a kindred spirit. I did that with a friend this summer, I swear...there's something about drumming ...its rhythm vibrates within our bodies and surroundings and a force field of healing, protection, love and peace is everywhere! It is awesome! The power of drumming is a Cutting Edge...and a greater vibration lingers in its wake. Truly an amazing experience. I thank this mandala - #80 - for reminding me of that.

This post is a part of Leah's Fifth Annual Art Every Day Month! Thanks for the inspiration Leah. Although I won't be posting daily, I will be working on something creative every day and will post it through out the month. Maybe you'll join us? Check it out here.

Green Oasis Mandala

2007-10-16T22:07:00.000-05:00

This Green Oasis Mandala provides respite for my soul. Its colors and shapes, and its Center Oasis, or eye, invites me to go deep into its presence of wholeness, freedom, peace...and bliss. I hear whispers beckoning me to "just let go" and rest. This mandala is a haven for me, and of all the mandalas I've made, this is the first one that has affected me this way. This intuitive art-making is truly a fascinating journey. I never know what's going to show up on the page, and I find that refreshing and gratifying. Yes, Intuition knows just what she's doing... so I curtsy to her as well as the the Oasis inside this mandala...and the Oasis inside of me...and I say thank you. Yes, I let the mandala medicine have it's way with me...I just Let it Be.

Mandala #77

Inpire Me Thursday: Hats Off!

2007-10-13T17:46:00.001-05:00

This week at Inspire Me Thursday we are prompted to put on our creative caps and be inspired by...HATS! "Make a hat, alter a hat, draw a hat, paint a hat, or whatever else your creative genius may conjure up."

I immediately thought of the fun, easy, breezy hats I love to wear during the summer...and while on vacation in sunny places. This photo was taken not that long ago while in Jamaica with friends...in Ocho Rios to be exact. That's me in the floppy hat and jeans shorts, and Deb in black wearing her very cool baseball cap. Boy did we all have fun on that trip! One reason I like summer hats is because they help shield us a bit from the hot sun**. And, I don't know why but wearing summer hats stirs up fun, freedom and yes...playfulness within me. So, here's "hats off" to all three...and to you too!

**I must share this healthful tip with you in case you want to give it a try...plus, you know I can't keep good stuff to myself! (You can click on the purple text, which is linked to the site) -- As you know hats don't protect us from the harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun, but MelanSol® 100% Natural Sunscreen does. And better yet, MelanSol® does NOT contain any of the harmful cancer-causing chemicals that are present in many (if not all) of the popular, mainstream sunscreens. A bonus is that I'm enjoying its anti-aging benefits, and since the sun's harmful rays are ever-present rain, overcast or shine, I now use it as my year round facial moisturizer. My skin has a healthier glow and I feel good that I'm providing natural, healthy nourishment for it. Others notice too, as I frequently receive compliments! Most important, MelanSol® is one more essential ingredient I've added to my recipe for healthy living. ~ It's primarily available online at the offical MelanSol® website from which you can receive a free sample here. "Hat's off" to enjoying the sun, safely.

Squiggly Sunburst Mandala

2007-10-09T22:21:00.000-05:00

Ahh...

these emerging squiggles always delight me! This was the second mandala of this kind. The first one was the Diamond Drum. They both found their way into my mandala journal this summer. I love the way they energize me with their their exuberant & colorful bursts of energy. Each one wiggling and then bursting mid-stream...popping with life! Seeing this reminds me of the radiant energy that's at my center...and yours, and it feels good! It brightens me up and makes me smile. So...here's to my smiles & yours....and to letting our true colors shine through...in every day...and in all seasons.

Mandala 69

Mystical Mandala Journey

2007-09-29T14:49:00.000-05:00

It's been five months since I began my Mystical Mandala Journey. I'm 76 mandalas deep into this soothing and revealing soul-homeopathic remedy that I call Mandala Medicine.

In this time I've seen recurring symols and themes in the mandalas I've made, which I've linked to as follows: There're the eyes, the V-like symbols, the squiggly lines, color explosions, as well as fun & games, to name a just a few...all of them revealing more insights into myself, more opportunities to see and grow, and listen; more chances to share, inspire, and to be inspired. I've witnessed Mandala Medicine make a difference in the lives of people, as mentioned in the wonderful comments, and in my post on Making Your Own Mandala Medicine.

It's been a fascinating journey. I appreciate every single one who has come and joined in this Mystical Mandala Journey, for it is truly "Our Journey"...and I'm blessed, honored and thrilled to be sharing it with such talented, caring, generous, creative, supportive and inspiring people. YOU make it fun and inspiring for me; and I look forward to the next 76+ mandalas, mine and yours...as well as whatever your heart and soul decides to create, and share.

I also want to thank Muse Melanie, creator of Inspire Me Thursday. Melanie, through your vision and commitment to living a creatively inspired life, you have broadened the horizons of my life exponentially with an opportunity to expand, be inspired, and be a part of a growing family of art-inspired friends and muses from all over the world! Thank you for opening the portals of your imagination to us.

Godspeed...and I thank you all for being in my life...indeed, this means YOU!

(Mandala #49)

Mandala 48 - The Enigma

2007-09-29T03:56:00.000-05:00

Usually I have an idea about the message, or symbolism in the mandalas I make. This one is more of an enigma. I sense the "centered sight, and connection" but that's about it. So, this is yet another ingredient of Mandala Medicine: Sometimes it's about expressing and releasing, and understanding comes later. It's a lot like SoulCollage® in that way. So, when I'm ready I'll quiet myself and dialogue with this "Enigma". Hmm.. perhaps it symbolizes that part of me I've yet to discover or understand. Now there's some food for thought...huh?

Almost a Square...

2007-09-23T00:19:00.001-05:00

Inspire Me Thursday's creative prompt this week is "Square". I know this isn't exactly a square, but hey,

considering I normally make mandalas...this is close enough for me! In my "mandala mind" anything with angles can qualify as needed: a square, a rectangle, or a triangle..LOL! : )

I do like this bright, boldly-colored, blooming flower, which evolved over a few days. Back in the summer I wanted to try my hand at something other than mandalas, just to see how it felt; plus I was trying out my new Prismacolor markers. And...even though I'm pleased with how this came out, I realize that I just don't resonate with straight lines and angles as a defined area to create in. If I get too many lines and angles in my mandalas, I get the heebie-jeebies!** I have this vibe going with the mandala...so I'll continue to honor that. And every now and then, as the muse moves me, I'll explore other shapes to work within, but for now I'm happy to be a mandala girl!

** And I can't argue with what comes up though, since it's created in the "stream of consciousness" state. I'll just stay tuned to what the lines and angles have to say to me when they do show up.

A Purrr-fect Evening

2007-09-21T22:47:00.000-05:00

My Sacred Life:
As a part of winding down tonight, after a rather hectic day at work...and as my kitty, Ike, was meowing away for my attention...I realized that giving him the attention he needed could also serve me as well...and it did. I grabbed his brush and we sprawled out in the living room floor...by the way he "luuuvs" to get brushed... and we just had a little Purr-fest. I'm brushing and he starts purring...my mind relaxes and I feel an inner-hum myself. It was a sacred, synchronistic dance. It was our "we time". It was rather meditative...the only sounds were that of his purring... oh so soothing...it was music to my ears and heart. A beautiful way to end the day. Thank you Ike.

To visit other My Sacred Life participants, click here.

Women for Women International

2007-09-13T18:43:00.000-05:00

Being able to share what I have be it ideas, knowledge, patience, food or money, etc. ...pleases my soul immensely. A while back I decided to sponsor a "sister" through Women For Women International. Many of these women live in war-torn countries, have no electricity or indoor plumbing, and live in fear for their lives, and their children's lives. Women for Women Int'l provides these women support and education to create a better life.

Over the summer my first sponsoree/sister graduated from the program. She writes to let me know of her progress and success since she started the program. Her life has improved in the following ways: the general health of her and her family, ability to get timely medical care, sense of self-confidence, support network, relationship with husband, role as community leader, ability to decide which children got to school...and to send them; as well as her economic situation. That's a wonderful dividend for a heart-investment, and it's less than a dollar a day per month. Giving, indeed is the gift... to the giver as well as the receiver. Another ingredient of my sacred life.

Tangerine Mango Mandala

2007-09-11T00:46:00.001-05:00

Inspire Me Thursday's creative prompt this week is using a "Limited Palette". We were asked:
"What colors surround you most… what colors repeatedly draw you in… what colors symbolize what is going on in your life right now?"

Well..."mango" has resonated with me for over a year now. It's been "cantaloupe mango"...and these shades feel like a "tangerine mango" to me. I've been so passionate about Mango that I named my home creative space my "Magical Mango Studio". It's sweet, furry mascot is my Mango Kitty, Ike. And...my fabulously talented artist-friend Pattie Mosca created Magical Mango Kitty to grace the wall of my mango-colored studio (oh, be sure to see the 2nd photo of the finished kitty). So...there was no doubt what my choice would be for this Thursday Inspirational prompt... Mango Mandala Madness! After partaking of my mandala medicine, I found it very interesting and amusing to look at this mandala "all the way around" so I posted three more views separately, below. This one is what resonated with me most, although the horizon view, as I call it, was a close second. May you enjoy this bit of tangerine-mango today.

(Using Prismacolor markers is a completely different creative experience vs. using my Crayola Super Tips...which I love those too. Mandala #74)

Tangerine Mango Mandala~ Triple-play

2007-09-11T00:27:00.003-05:00

Hmm, a different way...

...of seeing...

...possibilities...

My Sacred Life: Surrender

2007-09-10T18:05:00.000-05:00

"The creative process is about surrender, not control."
~ Julia Cameron

And, since living is a creative process... I honor the principle of surrender. It's funny that this quote came to me today since I just wrote about surrender two days ago. I love it when that happens, it's like the Universe is blowing me a kiss saying: "Here sweetie, this one's for you"! Yes...the release and power of surrender is indeed a haven, for that's when I get to flow with life rather than against it (i.e. unconsciously trying to impose my will on situations, people, places and things). Yep... "Row, row, row your boat gently down the stream"... It's the only way to go. Realizing this makes the moments that are my life... more full, textured and rich...and yes, sacred. Yes...life is good!
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To see all the Sacred Life participants click here.

Making your own Mandala Medicine

2007-09-09T00:28:00.022-05:00

Creatimg mandalas is fun, easy, and reveals ourselves to ourselves in one way or another.

I love, love, love making them, sharing them, and encouraging others to do the same. That makes them an essential ingredient in My Sacred Life. They are my spirit medicine...my "mandala medicine" as I now call it. Although, nothing needs to be ailing for me to benefit from this relaxing, and energizing form of creativity and self-discovery.

I've written my personal prescription for creating your own Mandala Medicine, at the end of a few posts, but today when I received the following e-mail from sister-blogger Kelly...I knew I wanted to make the Prescription a separate post so others can begin making their own and join in the fun, creativity and sharing of insights that come from this creative prescription. Kelly writes:

"Your mandalas really inspired me. You can tell yours are dancing and open to Spirit. That's what made me want to sit down and do one... the idea that there are no rules except to keep it kind of circular. :) Other mandala sites made me feel intimidated, but your site is encouraging everyone to try it. Thank you for that."

Thank you Kelly! I love it when things work together like this... inspiration begets inspiration! ...and "thank you everyone" who comes and shares your kindred spirits here.

Within the last few days I became aware of three people making mandalas who have stopped by this blog at some point. I was thrilled when Patti of Welcome to My Universe, left a comment saying she was going to make mandalas, and did she ever! That same day she made three, and then two more of late. From her blog I found Kelly's Kikipotamus the Hobo, she just made her first mandala a few days ago! And Annie of Journey Through Life loves the meditative experience of coloring mandalas, which I've not yet done..oh my goodness the possibilities are endless!

Here's my personal prescription for making your own Mandala Medicine..

Just draw or trace a circle (I use a CD)... and color, paint, or draw inside of it without giving it much thought...just choose what to do moment by moment....have fun...just play...you'll get a feel for when it's complete. Be detached from its outcome...an unintended mark or blob becomes another message; there are no mistakes. When you're done ...put it where you can see it and look at it every chance you get. Then make another one!! ...and put it so you can see it too. Repeat. Sooner or later they will speak to you in some way. Allow yourself to journal about your insights...and observations of the symbols, colors, how you felt in your body, and even what was going on in your life while creating your mandalas. Just let yourself be a vessel. All of this, especially in retrospect will be very revealing...like clues to a mysterious, hidden treasure...which is YOU! - Also, you can dialogue with your mandala, as I've done with Sabrina. The mandalas we make offer insights beyond what's apparent to us. It's yet another form of intuitive creativity...so have fun!

Check out the comments from bloggers below...they're having a good results from making their mandala medicine!

By the way, the above photo shows some of my mandala making supplies, along with a mandala in-process which is for a prompt from this week's Inspire Me Thursday.

My Sacred Life: Mandala Medicine

2007-09-08T21:19:00.001-05:00

Carla's post tonight reminds me of the blessings of stillness and rest, and what leads me to inhabit them. Sometimes it's an intentional act of self-care, and sometimes it's induced by a shadowy mood in which I'm so exhausted that I have no choice but to let go, be still, and rest. Although the former is prefered, the latter is where I was when I created this mandala.

I discovered a few years go through a poem I'd written that sometimes we have to stop resisting and "rest in the unrest"...otherwise known as "surrender"...a nudging from Spirit for which I am deeply grateful. After making this mandala, I experienced relief. A sigh, like I'd finally outrun a dark cloud that threatened an inner-storm. It passed through me after a short while, and it left some gifts in its wake. A new dawning swept though me after that, and I then picked up more markers to create again. My heart was lightened. A new blossoming was born. Inspirations from my surroundings were keener to me.

I've decided to call my mandala work "mandala medicine" for that is indeed what it is. After making this mandala, that same evening this one and this one emerged. And a few days later this one. All of them glowing evidence that this mystical "mandala medicine" works. Indeed, it is an essential prescription...to be taken as needed in My Sacred Life.

Update: Sister-bloggers are chiming-in with how mandala medicine is working for them! Check out the comments in the post, "Making your own Mandala Medicine".

(Mandala #46)

My Sacred Life: Using Our Talents

2007-09-05T03:27:00.002-05:00

This mandala:

"Cry Me a River", speaks for itself, doesn't it? It's mandala #47 of the 71 I've made so far since May of this year. It seemed fitting to post it with the Paint-It Pink Mandala Project™ that I want to share with you, but before I do I want to let you know that...

...I am truly loving the My Sacred Life Project because it reminds that so much of my life is sacred. My heart knows this, but sometimes my mind races ahead, so this project is doing just what it's creator, Carla intended...to bring to the surface mind, the sacredness of every day; which by the way is the purpose of this blog!...to see the Art in Every Day!...which I write about it in my description...and I indeed DO see the Art in Every Day; but it's the beauty of subtleties that can make the experience of living so much richer; so having the word "sacred" introduced to my "every day" attunes my heart even more to its existence in my life.

This is already the case with seeing the "Art in Every Day." Now I get to do that with Sacredness. THIS is what makes our life so very rich...more spiritiual ideas incorporated into our being-ness. The My Sacred Life Project does that for me, and I to pay homage to that principle, and Carla . Thank you Carla. And now...on to "Using our Talents".

There's not much I love better about creativity than using our passions and talents for a good cause. If you're reading this then no doubt you already know that I am hopelessly in love with making mandalas. For me it's a visual form of Morning Pages...self-exploration, discovery and releasing mind chatter, at it's best. My soul is soothed, and it exhales with gratitude when I indulge it in this "mystical mandala medicine". It's a prescription for well-being that I must fill regularly...otherwise I'm a little "off". Anyway...when I came across the Paint-It Pink Mandala Project™ the other night (yes...I was surfing the net for all things mandala :) it was all I could do to sit long enough to write and share this with you because...

...The Paint-It Pink Mandala Project™ combines creating mandalas + a worthy cause, Breast Cancer Awareness. It also helps to support artists whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. The Project was created by international mandala teacher Claire Sabo. Don't you think it's awesome that there is an "international mandala teacher"? That in itself lets us know that mandala-making is p-r-e-t-t-y powerful.

Ms. Sabo started the Project to honor her mother and grandmother, both of whom died of breast cancer. The Mandala Project organization, where Ms Sabo is workshop coordinator, describes the project saying: "This ongoing public art collection of pink mandalas sent in from all over the world, brings awareness and hope until the cure is found."

So this is the perfect opportunity to yet again, use our creative juices...and our generous, compassionate hearts...to make a difference. Can't you just see our "Works of HeArt" in their gallery...bringing awe to someone's heart, that they were thought of enough to do this on their behalf? And, since it's an ongoing project there a no deadlines...very cool. Details for submitting your mandala are available at Paint-It Pink Mandala Project™. For those who choose to participate...thank you. And, if you need an another reference for making mandalas I describe my simple process at the end of this post. Have fun and may you see and embrace the sacredness of using your talents.

P.S.- Here are pictures from a Paint-it Pink Mandala workshop featuring finished PINK mandalas!

My Sacred Life

2007-09-04T01:24:00.000-05:00

I came across this interesting and timely article*: Shadow Comforts, written by Comfort Queen, Jennifer Louden ...at the Soulful Living site...which in itself is a Treasure Trove for the Spirit. Jennifer's insights into shadow comforts is comprehensive; and I can, and will use the journaling promots she outlines in the article. I've been witnessing myself partake of shadow comforts for a while...and have wanted to overcome, transcend, transform them (that's code for working toward self-mastery). So...here's my chance...another chance, another soul-tool to incorporate. Yes...my prayer, desire and intention for assistance were genuine...for the answer came. It showed up synchronicstically through Carla (of Zena Moon & My Sacred Life Project) who commented on my Diamond Drum Mandala post, and her blog* led me to the article. Thank you Carla. Soul-stirring gifts were left in your wake.

It's been said: "Ask...and you shall receive". I know this is true. And I also say to myself: "Ask, Expect (to get it), Prepare (to receive it), Walk in the Consciousness of already having it, and Give thanks for it." It works. Oh...and when I forget that "it works" I remind myself to "Walk in Faith...not by sight, but in Spiritual Insight". What I've also discovered is...after genuinely doing this enough It becomes a part of my being... and I then I don't have to even ask...because I realize it's already mine. And in that awareness...in that moment...I say thank you, thank you, thank you. And I know...I will see it in my experience of living at the divine-right time.

Yes this is definitely a "Sacred Life" moment. And, I say "thank you Carla", for dreaming up the My Sacred Life Project...it's an honor to share the journey of my sacred life with you, and kindred travelers along the way. ~ Godspeed. Namaste.

Diamond Drum Mandala

2007-09-01T01:34:00.001-05:00

Inspire Me Thursday's theme this week is "Fun & Games...and this Diamond Drum Mandala was much FUN to make with all its colors, diamonds, squiggles and wiggles. It's funny, I didn't know what it was...I was "going for" a vase, but it didn't look like that to me..so it was the mystery mandala for a while.

Then, my friend Patrica saw it and said, "Oh...a drum!" Thank you Pat!...I agree...it's a drum! What FUN this is....it can sometimes become the GAME of... "What's that Mandala?" That's what's so great about these mandalas, you can't mess them up...the imagination just makes of it what it will...and I must say...that makes it more FUN! -- And...I can see and feel its vibrational beat...which makes me wanna just move & groove...and shake, rattle & roll!

Come join-in the mystery, and the FUN...& GAMES of creating mandalas*. This one even looks like it's having fun, fun, fun! (By the way...this is mandala #68.)

* Creatimg mandalas is fun, easy, and reveals ourselves to ourselves in one way or another. Here's what I do: Just draw or trace a circle (I use a CD)... and color or draw inside of it without giving it much thought...just choose what to do moment by moment....have fun...just play...you'll get a feel for when it's complete. Be detached to its outcome...an unintended mark or blob becomes another message; there are no mistakes. When you're done...put it where you can see it and look at it every chance you get. Then make another one!! ...and put it so you can see it too. Repeat. Sooner or later they will speak to you in some way...the symbols, colors, etc. you've drawn can be very revealing. The mandalas we make offer metaphysical insights to us. It's yet another form of intuitive creativity.

Violet's Magenta Visions

2007-08-27T21:21:00.001-05:00

I'm baaaack! --

Thank you for your happy wishes for my good time away..that means a lot to me : ) I had a magnifi-cent, creative, inspiring, heArtwarming & fun time with my SoulCollage sisters in the Boston area. Ahh...friendship is a marvelous thing...a haven for the heart, and food for the soul...when we allow it to be....Ahh...life is indeed, GOOD!

And...while away I discovered even more facets of myself (who knew!) during a very insightful SoulCollage® workshop...sponsored by Anne Marie Bennett of KaleidoSoul , and facilitated by Karen Mann ...all the way from Australia! Little-by-little I will share my new cards and insights at my gallery 1 or gallery 2 in the weeks and months ahead....

...In the meantime, please meet Violet. She sees with a mystical eye and shares beautiful, healing Magenta Visions for me, you...and our fellow & sister travellers. May you partake... be well...and may your days be your heArt's work of art!

(Mandala #72)

...Gone Fishin'

2007-08-16T16:24:00.000-05:00

Hi there... I'm relaxing on holiday for about a week and a half. See ya when I get back!

Powerful Beyond Measure

2007-08-15T01:01:00.006-05:00

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inade-

quate. ~ Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. ~ It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. ~ We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? ~ Actually, who are you not to be? ~ You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. ~ There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. ~ We are all meant to shine, as children do. ~ We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. ~ It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” ~~ Excerpt from A Return to Love, by Marianne Williamson.

I notice in my mandalas the V-like symbol shows up a lot. I view it as either a "merging"...OR a "fork in the road"...I see both as prompting me to be awake, aware and fully alive in each moment...making conscious decisions of how I will spend...as Garden Girl says... the "currency" of my time...the currency of my life! What a gift this mandala work is.

And so...as we embark on our continuing journey and come to crossroads, it's inevitable that we will be prompted to to either "merge with" the greater ideas and attiudes that bring us in closer alignment with our higher and best selves...OR -- take the "fork in the road" and leave behind what no longer represents who and what we are, where we're going and who we're becoming. They're two sides of the same coin, with a subtle yet powerful difference; sometimes it's more liberating to focus on moving toward where we're going...and sometimes liberation comes from acknowledging and giving ourselves credit for "letting go" of what no longer serves us. Each are pivotal, defining moments...a celebration of self, really....And that's when Marianne Williamson's words shine as a guiding light in and through me. It's a wonder-filled light...and may that same light shine on you ever so brightly.

Baby Cheryl

2007-08-14T00:59:00.004-05:00

Hi there...
My name is Cheryl and I'm excited that I get to talk about this week's Inspire Me Thursday topic, DNA. Thanks to the Creator, and my parents...Edith & Bill...this is how my Baby Cheryl DNA showed up about 50 years ago!* Happy, healthy & already creating!
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As I sit in this comfy chair...(which my mom made the slipcovers for...'Go mom!')...I am thankful and happy that I had the parents I did! Mom and dad were always doing something creative, something to make our life and surroundings more colorful, unique, pretty and comfy...like a garden with lots and lots of different kinds of flowers. Yep something creative was always in the works...and some of it you even could eat!...like my mom's oh-so-good homemade rolls, and her chicken & dumplings...or my dad's barbque...and his tasty chili (he liked chili-mac). I wrote a story about my memories of their creative pursuits...and how their loving, creative souls made my life a happy one. I invite you to read it here. It paints a picture story of my DNA lineage... my parents; and I wouldn't be surprised if you resonate with my story...since the creative DNA is present in all of us. Oh...and thank you Royce for the idea of DNA= Dreams Nurture Art...it's so true!

One last note: Our family is a creative bunch, not just my parents, my brothers, sisters and I...but my grandparents, cousins, aunts & uncles too. Even though I didn't know my great grandparents, my mom told me wonderful stories about her 'granny'...and the clothes she made using unusual materials. There was no box to think outside of back then...just unbridled imagination! Now, more than ever I realize how this creativity DNA has enhanced my life profoundly.

*To answer Garden Girl's question, I believe I'm between 12-18 months old in this picture.

The Texture of Life - Collage Therapy

2007-08-13T20:14:00.001-05:00

"In the evening mist my spirit rises to greet me, and my soul wanders home."
~ ~ ~ ~ That beautiful quote rests near the picture of the woman sleeping. Isn't it lovely?
A little collage therapy...(You can click for close-up...the blurbs might make you smile : ) This was one of my morning collages from last summer. I created this Collage-a-Day project during creativity coaches training...as a way to be creative on a regular basis...because like so many people...I thought my life was too busy for me to actually "make something" regularly...and that made for a cranky and blue Cheryl! Creating something every day, no matter how large or small...or working on something, even if you don't complete it...is so therapeutic...soothing to my soul. So whether it's collage, or mandalas, or jewelry or SoulCollage®, or blog posts, or crocheting or knitting...Twyla Tharp would be proud...I've cultivated The Creative Habit that she talks about!
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This collage is about appreciating the texture of life...and you know me, I'm a tactile girl! Life in 3D, and on the shores of 4D...taking in the rich depth, textures, gratitude and outright glee...and, knowing how to alchemize the shadowy moments...that's a part of the rich texture too. -- Don't you just love the look on the little girl's face!...and the woman in deep slumber...ahh... I can feel her releasing her day in appreciation for every bit of it...she just looks like she's a peace with life, and herself. By the way...if anyone can translate the words in the heart for me...I'd really appreciate it (I think it's advertising an apartment for rent.) And that perky little dog...and the swanky illustration of the women holding the sign of appreciation was the icing on the cake.
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Yes, the texture of my life is deeply embossed with overflowing love & goodness, and mystery & spontanaeity and joy & creativity...it's...ever-expanding good...and I'm glad I get to share it with you!

Salad Mandala!

2007-08-08T22:14:00.000-05:00

Look what I found...

....a mandala in my salad!

...They can show up in the most

unexpected places, can't they?

What a delight!

Ahh...this is yet another sighting of

the "Art in Every Day"!

So..."what juicy, unexpected art...or words...or scenes have you experienced, observed, or overheard today?"

And...if you haven't YET... this blessing is for you:

"May you be smitten by fields of unexpected, juicy & artful delights today...a bountiful feast for your senses!" ...And once smitten, please come back & share!

"A River Runs Through It"

2007-08-06T21:34:00.001-05:00

Patterns continue to emerge and unfold in my mandalas...both visually and in meaning. Swirly, squiggly lines, velvety colors fit together like puzzle pieces...all flowing toward The Center and rippling out again. "Center" is a theme that keeps showing up. It's meaning and presence in my life continues to expand and deepen. Even in the mandala post below...even in that canyon of tears...the Energy of the Center is alive there too...bathing me with compassion and Love. The salty tears cleanse my emotions...and heart, helping me release what needs to be let go. Unity is an ongoing chorus that sings throughout these mysterious circles.
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This mandala strongly whispers to me that... "A river runs through it"...through me. And of course, a river runs...through you too! We are all inlets continually flowing from where we are on our journey....to the great river of our being...and those ripples affect the current of the Great River of our Universe. We are being bathed in the unity, the love, the peace, the beauty...the wholeness that is ever-present. An more of it keeps rolling in....like that huge boulder in the movie, Indiana Jones ...remember that? That's the way this mandala rolls to me...but with a gentle, suspended rotation much like the "Rich, Textured Journey" mandala..; but, the presence of this one is as if it was a planet... or moon hung in our Universe...vibrating "unity"...which gently runs through it...and us.

One of Those Days

2007-08-05T23:44:00.000-05:00

Did ya ever have one of those days?...

One of the main things I love about creative-expression is the sharing of it...and the wonders it brings into our life and our very being. I am so appreciative that I get to share in your artwork, your process, your ideas...and your lives. My heart literally smiles and expands at the thought of this!

Tonight I viewed Garden Girl's Fear of Flying post, and it has touched my heart on many levels. Life is challenging and ever-changing...even if we sometimes don't realize it. Then something happens that jars our awareness of this. - The sentiments of her "Grief Mandala" and poem, are those I am all too familiar with.

She also mentions that my blog and mandalas have inspired her to deal with grieving in a new way. Thank you Garden Girl...for this I am touched, and grateful. I feel this is why we're all here...to help and inspire each other. I know I'm certainly inspired by everyone who comes here and IMT. So Garden Girl, you have inspired me to share this mandala.

In keeping with the spirit of creative and art therapy, I made this mandala last weekend to "let out" how I was feeling. I was having "one of those days" ..which lasted the entire weekend. The good news is I heeded what my heart and soul needed...I rested...slept...created this mandala...and then about 4 more which were brighter, like the rainbow after the rain....and slept some more. And...like you Garden Girl, I felt better too. It's interestng, seeing this mandala makes me appreciate the brighter days even more...and it reminds me that they are there...sometimes in the moment and sometimes on the horizon...but they are there indeed.

I Live in Color!

2007-08-05T04:00:00.002-05:00

"Dear Diary" is this week's challenge at Inspire Me Thursday. This is the cover of one of my favorite creative journals! -- I created it in October 2005 after I returned home from Jill B's Muse Group Leader Training in KC. -- Actually, I bought this sketch book during one of our assigned artist-date-type excursions while there.

I had fun creating it... and being the "tactile" person that I am ...I was near-giddy when I found the sunburst at Michael's ! It added just the dimension and texture I wanted! Anyway, the cover to reminds me of how important it is to fully, authentically, and audaciously... be me! - To accept, and yes...celebrate all my quirks, my talents and skills and my splendid imperfections! -- I feel that's one of the most important things for ALL of us, is to fully express our selves...and..."to thine own self be true". I think the rest follows suit more harmoniously after that.

In addition to the cover, here e are two pages from that express that idea:
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Alfri Woodard is one of my favorite people...and actresses. Something in me lights up when I see her...she's just got a good vibe! She walks in strength and beauty...it radiates from her like moonlight...and goes before her...like it's gently trumpeting the dawning of her arrival! She excudes, peace...and grace... and dignity...and spirited-fun as well! -- I loved her playful, humorous, loving-mother character in the movie Heart & Souls. The way I see it, Alfri Woodard is very much at home in her own skin...and it shows! And to me...that's one major ingredient of a joyful life!
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The blurb in the middle of this "Live in Color" collage is from my muse project I did with Jill B. In it, I talk about how important it is that we "live in color"...letting our true colors shine through ....
I also write about the movie Pleasantville and what happened in the town to the people once they began to "see in color" ...Once they glimpsed colorful living, their experience of living grew like fields of wildflowers...and there was no turning back! (You can click on the image to read the blurb...if you'd like.)--
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To me, living in color is continuing to discover, see and celebrate the colorful beauty...both tangible and intangible... that surrounds us. That's why I created this blog...to honor, celebrate and share that with all of you...and to share in yours as well! - - So...I raise steaming cup of Constant Comment Tea (my sweet mom's favorite)...to you and say, "Cheers! -- Here's to living in color!"

Rich, Textured Journey

2007-08-04T00:50:00.001-05:00

This mandala is one of my favorites. I think it's because the colors make me smile. They're an unusual and unexpected combination which is pleasing to me.

I find that I'm drawn to making that sickle shape...that half-moon...or parts thereof. it feels good to have my hand make the smooth expansive strokes with the markers. I continue to marvel at the the different shapes and squiggles and the unusual colors that were inspired.

This mandala represents the richly textured fabric of my life...and my life's journey: It's colorful, unique, harmonious, beautiful, unexpected, intriguing, cheerful yet soothing...and always vibing with and abiding in...The Center.

Mandala #56

Spiritual In-sight

2007-08-03T23:02:00.002-05:00

I started this mandala one evening while listening to a CD(set) by Dr. Michael Beckwith*. I've been a enthusiast of his since the early 90s, and he is a major Catalyst for me in regard to my inward journey of spiritual growth and transformation. On this particular CD, in addition to a soul-awakening message, he takes us through a powerful guided meditation in which it I saw a starburst of silvery-white shimmering light well-up rapidly from the Core of my being and rush through me. It then flashed behind my eyes and lingered a bit...as if to say "Yes...I'm Real". An awesome experience. It was exhilarating, assuring and a whole lot more that I cannot find the words to describe right now.

Anyway, you might already know that "eyes" have been showing up in my mandalas since I started creating them in May of this year. - (Making them was part of the Integrative Breathwork Weekend that I participated in at FullCircle Retreat in Wisconsin.) - Since I create them spontaneously, the EYE...as well as everything else...really does decide if, when and where it will show up; I just let it come through and create it accordingly. As I was just about finished with this mandala, while still listening to Dr. Beckwith, I had a flash of In-sight and realized that it indeed represented the "flashing starburst of light" I saw during the guided meditation...my Spiritual In-sight. What a gift this is...what a gift life is!

*Dr. Beckwith, one of the teachers in the movie, and book "The Secret".

Mandala #71

Rockin' Girl Blogger Award

2007-08-02T01:37:00.001-05:00

Today I was awarded the "Rockin' Girl Blogger" award from my friend Pattie! Thank you Pattie! I am honored and excited...and I'm feeling immense gratitude that I'm a part of such a wonder-filled, amazing, inspiring and kindred circle of creative, warm, compassionate women. My creative world has opened up tremendously in the last two years; and meeting Pattie, as well as Royce was a big part of that opening...and richly rewarding one in ways too numerous to count. We met through Jill Badonsky and her playful-yet-powerful, quirky...wise and inspiring work through her book, The Nine Modern Day Muses &...a Bodyguard.

I've often said..."You turn right instead of left and your whole life changes!" -- It's the seemingly-simple and small choices and steps that can make a huge difference, and reverberate in our lives forever. This is the basis of the "Kaizen Way" as discussed in Dr. Robert Mauer's book, One Small Step Can Change Your Life ...and a large part of Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching.

Just think...in September of 2005, if I hadn't taken a few minutes to go online during my lunch hour, and "happen upon" The Creativity Portal, which lead me to Jill, who knows if or when I would've ever set my creativity free, released the blocks and learned about myself and my (the) creative process and the sensitivities that are inherent in us right-brainers! Meeting Jill and taking her Muse Group Leader Training as well as her Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching Training, and bonding with other sister-muses & coaches...changed all of that! My creativity has sprung forth in ways I'd never imagined...and the creative bliss, and energy I get from that is like none other...and yet, it's is still unfolding!

Actually, I've put the cart before the horse! A few months before I met Jill Badonsky, I read Anne Marie Bennett's article: Fall in Love with Yourself With SoulCollage® ...again, at that Universe of Creativity and Inspiration, The Creativity Portal! (By the way, Anne Maire is the creator of the awesome KaleidoSoul.) I was so inspired by Ann Maire's article that I made my first card using her e-workshop. I loved the process so much that 18 months later, I flew to California and took the SoulCollage® Facilitator's Training at a mountaintop retreat with Seena Frost, (& co.) the creator of the SoulCollage® .

...But wait! there's more!... Anne Marie and I have become the best of friends, and I have made other deep, heartful connections and friendships with many kindred spirits and sister-faciliators across the US, Candada & Australia! -- So here's a big hug and "thank you" to Chris Dunmire recognizing that our art-thirsty souls needed The Creativity Portal. And...Chris is also the creator of Creative Slush her endlessly creative and amusing blog...go on...take a sip, and please tell her I invited you!

So, Chris, Anne Marie and Jill, I am so thankful to you all for being rousing creativity-catalysts...and I'm glad Anne Marie, Pattie, Royce, Jill and I are "...still together after all these years" as the saying goes... or is it "...still CRAZY after all these years"? LOL!! ...I think it's all of the above!! -- And I thank all of you who visit here, leave wonderful, inspiring comments and share your ideas and encouragement. I'm so glad you're here...and I always look forward to visiting your blogs! You're all an enriching presence in my life.

And now...I pass the torch of "Rockin' Blogger Girl" seven other muses: Jill, Leah, Megan, Pilar, Lea, Chris and Anne Marie! -- Rock on girls! ..and pass it on, if you will.

"Peace...Blooming-out All Over"

2007-07-30T23:53:00.002-05:00

"Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me." ~ Lyrics by S. Miller & J. Jackson

The inspiration of this mandala says...

Eye see from Higher Ground. Eye hold a Higher Vision of peace, and see beyond the (negative) physical appearances and the news headlines. I am steadfast in my vision....and I live from that place of peace within me.

Peace begins within the vessel of my own being...and yours, and radiates out into our world as courtesy, patience, heartfelt smiles, or a cheerful "Hello!" Our peace expands with mindful living. We can beam peace from our hearts and souls... and let it shine through our eyes to every one we meet in our every day. We are Ambassadors of Peace, and we can decide to imbue blessings of peace to our brother-and-sister-travelers each day...especially to those who whose behavior shows they are not experiencing peace. Hmm... this could include agressive drivers, discourteous people, or those in so much in a hurry they're not "present"and do not show regard for others....you get the idea.

We can offer peace by yielding to them....and then observe as we experience the expansion of our own inner-peace. Like love, our peace increases when we share it. "Being peace" speaks ever so loudly...without saying a word; and even if it doesn't "appear" to make a difference...our acts of peace are cumulative...increasing the peace vibration on the planet. We are Beacons of Peace...and our sowing and harvesting of it helps create magnificient "peace-blooms" within the vessel of our own being, and then...an increased fragrance of peace permeates our planet, and universe.

Yes I breathe-in this poetic song, hear the melody, and let it soothe my soul & inspire my spirit..to "be peace". Yes..."Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me."

Blessings, everyone...
Cheryl

On another note: This mandala (#65) is a bit different from the others. I've begun using Prismacolor markers (vs. my Crayola Super Tips...which I still use, and love!). I'm getting better acquainted with the way they "take" to different paper, etc. This is the first mandala I made using Prismacolors and Micron pen.

Life Wheel

2007-07-25T23:48:00.001-05:00

Authentic self-expression, play, relationships,

inner-work, right livli-hood, prosperity, health and creativity -- all important components to keep my life wheel in balance. Now...to partake of them mindfully -- and create another wheel if need be -- This tool keeps me aware of the slices of life that are essential and need my attention.

Mandala #60

Waiting in the Wings

2007-07-25T22:53:00.000-05:00

Intention's Journey

2007-07-17T00:14:00.001-05:00

This mandala represents the inward journey of my intention. By introducing my heart-felt intention at the rim of my awareness...it travels toward the Center...and when I am completely

"at One" with it, it physically blossoms into my world.

One Spring morning during my quiet time, this Haiku poem on Intention emerged to greet me. Its simple beauty is contemplative and empowering...and reminds me of my role in my own life.

Haiku:

Our intentions are

the atmosphere in which we

live our truth out loud

Mandala #40

Ultimate Center

2007-07-15T19:24:00.001-05:00

This mandala represents my Ultimate Center of Being; the Center that Cheri Huber talks about in her book on compassionate self-discipline. I created this mandala spontaneously, and several days passed before I realized what it represented. Thanks to this mandala, now when I think of Center this image is what comes into my mind's eye. I see it just like this...all vibrant, bold, beautiful, and it has a shimmering translucence that's mesmorizing and transforming.

When I close my eyes and breath mindfully, and enter deep into my own being this shining, shimmering Center is what's waiting for me. It takes me into Itself and nourishes my soul. It's always there waiting to love, and soothe me....and welcome me back Home. It's waiting to heal whatever needs healing. It's waiting to inspire, enliven and give me more juice to celebrate and to express my full, authentic self.

Just as Royce writes about in "BOLD"... we MUST be our full authentic selves...and then go out into the world and "be it boldly"! We MUST embrace the fullness of our magnificient Selves! We MUST express fully who we are! I believe this is why we are here, and if we shy away from expressing it... others will miss out on the inspiration they would have received from us...and vice versa. We must be of good courage and go one (baby-step) farther to our Bold a new level that is waiting for us! Thank you Royce for your immeasurable inspiration!

Don't hold back! Be Bold, as Inspire Me Thursday challenges us to do this week; (my BOLD offering is here). We all have glorious gifts to share, and we can only do that when we say YES to the spirit of our magnificience. I am thankful that communing with Ultimate Center does that for me, as does induldging my creative passions, sharing them, and basking in the joy of others who share theirs! So, let "now" be the beginning baby-step, to BOLDLY go where no woman or man has gone before!

Mandala #45

The Center

2007-07-15T18:55:00.000-05:00

Just about all of my mandalas are created spontaneously in stream of consciousness. This one was a conscious decision before I even picked up a marker to begin; although once I got started, it too was stream of consciousness. .

This mandala was inspired by the cover Cheri Huber's book, Making a Change for Good: A Guide to Compassionate Self-discipline . After creating it I realized it is my rendition of what she calls "Center", at least the first level Center for me. It's a portal to my Ultimate Center.

When I see it I am reminded that when I live from the Core of my Center... my experience of living is awesome! It is vivid, alive, vibrant, self-nurturing, energetic, wildly creative...just to name a few. I am thankful for this beautiful reminder of Center...a portal that lives inside me....and beckons me to go even deeper.

Ultimate Center, Level II was created shortly after, and I have posted it above.

Mandala #44

Ode to the Mustard Seed

2007-07-15T18:47:00.001-05:00

It's been said that to have faith the size of a mustard seed is all it takes. If we have that, it's enough to declare "I believe!"

This mandala reminds me I have that Mustard Seed Faith...at least. The tiny dots at the center symbolize that...and the voluptous, flowering bloom keeps my eye and heart on the transforming power of beauty. I know my faith is more like a field of mustard seeds, but it's good to be reminded that a little bit is all it takes. This mandala is about the Beauty of Belief....my Ode to the Mustard Seed.

Mandala #43

Mystical Monique

2007-07-15T18:23:00.001-05:00

This mandala tells me her name is Mystical Monique, and she's all about my single-focused, forward movement in my mind, body, and affairs...letting go of what's behind me...no matter if I might call good or bad. Monique's job is to gently and powerfully keep me celebrating the moment. She is about making every day new, and about me being born "anew" to each new day and moment, and be "ever so present, to the present." Monique is a bounty of mystycal blessings.

Mandala #54

Bold & Vibrant Vision!

2007-07-15T00:47:00.001-05:00

This week's creative challenge at Inspire Me Thursday is to
BE BOLd

The elegant, gracious spirit of this mandala says to me:

I Am the part of you who has bold, beautiful vision and sees vibrant, colorful, and audacious new horizons for you...right now! ...and I always will!

I Am the part of you who surfs the waves of gracefulness, passion and boldness like nobody's business!!!!

I Am the one within you who knows that... "The beauty of life is in the eye of the one who...is bold enough to behold it!"

I behold you as the apple of my eye & heart. I know your life is filled with the vibrancy, the vigor and the aplomb of Spirit! I want you to keep riding those waves, and continue to "see" your bold, beautiful, colorful life of love, wholeness and beauty. It is yours right now!

Mandala #59

June's Mandala Jubilation Gyrates into July!!

2007-07-08T21:40:00.001-05:00

Inspire Me Thursday's creative prompt this week is "Seven" . After making this mandala yesterday, signing and dating it 7/7/07...I knew this was my entry!

June's Mandala Jubilation was so marvelous that I'm going with the flow and letting it gyrate through the month of July! I've been so enthralled in this art as self-discovery...as spiritual practice that I'm just now stopping to post. It's been and energizing and amazing process. I've created 24 mandalas since my last post about a month ago...and more important the number I've made is what these beauties reveal to me about myself; much like my SoulCollage® cards - they're pieces of my own personal treasure map...created by my psyche...my soul. All of them have been created spontaneously...no plan...just pure spirit shining through...playing in the circle..detached from what it will look like. Another one added to the Mandala Suit of my SoulCollage® Deck.

Maybe you'll be inspired to give it a whirl...and see what imagery is deep within you waiting to whisper its wisdom in your ear. Creating them is simple... just draw or trace a circle... and color or draw inside of it without giving it much thought...just choose what to do moment by moment....have fun...just play...you'll get a feel for when it's complete. Be detached to its outcome...an unintended mark or blob becomes another message; there are no mistakes. When you're done...put it where you can see it and look at it every chance you get. Then make another one!! ...and put it so you can see it too. Sooner or later they will speak to you in some way...and the message will likely be very synchronistic. I have a girlfriend who can attest to this! She emailed me just yesterday telling me of her delight at her mandala's message...and how at first she didn't feel anything from it...then POW! ...it hit her. If you do decide to make one...and care to share it...I (and others) would love to hear about it... just drop me an e-mail, located at my profile. (You can also browse other methods for creating mandalas under "Links that Inspire Creativity".)

This is mandala #63 and it says to me: Your single-pointed focus of your intention, and the stillness you cultivate within yourself pierces through all of the lovely, colorful, and numerous distractions in your daily life, and it escorts you to a place of simple pleasures, calm waters within where your single-pointed intention...as sharp and precise as a razor's edge...ripples out into your inner and outer worlds...shaping it, creating your experience as you see and feel and know it to be in your heart...in your consiousness. Remember you have the power to do that, as it's available to everyone. You single pointed intention and focus reveals itself as your life. It's how you hit your target...creating the life you envision..of your heart's desire; and always remember... there is joy in the journey.

Make it a creative day!

Cheryl

"Sabrina" Mandala ~~ June Jubilation Rocks!

2007-06-09T19:18:00.001-05:00

June Mandala #3 - This sweetheart is...Sabrina. She is the first face to emerge from my mandala-making...and I am so glad she has joined me. Her birth began the same as my other mandalas...simply coloring in the circle -which is a fun place to play, as this small circle allows me to create effortlessly, without attachment. Colors are chosen rather spontaneously -- shapes, strokes and squiggles emerge from my muse's whispering whims .

At some point I notice an opening that beckons me to create a "room with a view" - and when it feels right, then...wha-laa!... an eye is created! It's almost as if the eye is whispering to me from it's formless state... requesting that I grant its wish to be made visible. Some of the mandalas I've created resonate an energy to me...a certain feeling of aliveness...and that's when I know to include it in the Mandala suit of my SoulCollage® deck .

This whole eye fascination is intriguing me -- I've been collecting magazine images of eyes, glances and such for my SoulCollage® deck for quite a while now. I now see that I'm giving honor to my delight in feasting my eyes...and inner-vision on the beauty of life...and living! ~

And... as I celebrated my 50th birthday on June 8th (Yay me!) I know I'm better than ever! I feel in in my bones!! I feel good in my skin!! ~ I am living life from the joy of Being...celebrating each day, each breath, each blink....each year ...and each and every experience that has brought me to this day...today...not just the anniversary of my birth...but this very day!! -- So I am shouting it from the mountaintops: Life is Good!! ~ Life is Full!! ~ Life is Beautiful!! ~ I am whole! ~ I am loved! ~ I love! ~ I have a rich, rich life...and so much to be thankful for!! I am thankful!

From the SoulCollage® point of view, Sabrina tells me:

Eye am your inner-vision. Eye am your honed focus. Eye have traveled the universe, exploring...and then...back home to you. Eye am the part of you who is enchanted with life...on earth and beyond!

Eye see living color in my inner and outer worlds. Eye am one who's at home with stars of all varieties. Eye am the part of you who sees and feels the sparkle of new and renewed love in your eyes...even before you realize it....love for friendships, kinships, family, creating...and life!!

It is my joy to see your life through my single eye...my eye of panoramic vision. Eye see new, colorful beginnings of beauty, love, joy...and order for you right now!

Keep loving, nurturing and being inspired by yourself and the wealth of kinships and inspiration that surround you...as well as the inspiration that finds you! Do what comes naturally. Above all...always let your true colors come shining through...just like you're doing...for there is no substitute for, and few rewards greater than authentic self-expression.

Tree of Life Mandala

2007-06-05T22:57:00.001-05:00

June Mandala #2 -

Inspired by the creative spark over at Inspire Me Thursday which was: reflect upon our "roots", literal or otherwise...and create something!

Immediately I thought of a tree...I am fascinated by...and drawn to...trees! However, I haven't yet learned how to draw roots...so I let that idea steep a bit while I wrote about my first entry -- and not long afterard, the idea of surrounding the tree with words came to me... (thanks to my muse). These "living words" are just a few of the foundational roots from which my life's garden has grown. Life, joy, compassion, peace, truth, creativity and beauty are a just a few (of many root sytems) that were passed on to me from my parents , my grandparents, and other family elders...and I too have passed them on to my daughter...and so it goes on and on. Roots are a beautiful thing.!

June's Mandala Jubilation!

2007-06-03T23:57:00.001-05:00

June Mandala #1

~~ It's Joyful Jubilation as I Begin Making Mandalas for June!~ ~

Ahh...summer is nearly here, vibrant color everywhere...a variety of rich textures are bursting forth; the chorus of birds singing in the trees is pure heaven to me... Today I saw a bird gathering twigs and grass his nest (he looked like a guy...LOL!) which I've not seen since I was a little girl! I paused and took these moments in. Life is good indeed. Oh...and hearing the breeze through the trees is so calming...each time I hear that it reminds me of a Haiku poem my daughter wrote for me when she was about eight, it had the line in it "the breeze through the trees.." -- just makes me smile. And yes...the fragrances of the flowering trees...tease us with promise of more to come. Mother Nature is in her glory...and so am I. It's a beautiful site to behold....and expereince. A dose of nature is good for the soul ....The Art in Every Day...is alive and well, indeed!

This mandala is one of the first SoulCollage® Cards in the Mandala Suit of my SoulCollage® deck. I become still, and ask this art from my soul: "Who are you?" -- It replies:

"I am the part of you who is wide-eyed with wonder and appreciation for the the vibrant color that I reside in. ~~ I am the one who is leaving my circle of color to explore the universe of color that awaits me! ~~ I am the one who is excited about the colorful options in life. I look forward to creating new colors and textures. ~~ I am the one who is creating a life that delights the senses and the soul. ~~ I am the one who is expanding my world...with arms wide open... moving into a vibrant life of beautiful, living color."

Mandala Journey

2007-05-22T01:30:00.002-05:00

"Loosely translated to mean "circle", a mandala is far more than a simple shape. It represents wholeness, and can be seen as a model for the organizational structure of life itself--a cosmic diagram that reminds us of our relation to the infinite, the world that extends both beyond and within our bodies and minds."
~From Mandala: Journey to the Center, by Bailey Cunningham

Inspiration for these mandalas came as "art making" throughout the weekend during an Integrative Breathwork experiential workshop called Musical Soul Journey held at the beautiful, bountiful Full Circle Retreat held May 4-6. This was my first time trying my hand at drawing, coloring, painting mandalas; each one emerged spontaneously and was quite a thrill to see...and fun to make. Three larger mandalas were created during the weekend as a way to further integrate our Breathwork experience; and... after returning home they just kept coming! I've made about 32 so far up through May 20! It is very intriguing seeing all this emerge. I look forward to witnessing even more of my Mandala Journey; and the spontaneous creativity it's inspiring as well as the insight that's being revealed. I've discovered that this free flowing, intuitive mandala-making is a visual version of Morning Pages for me! Wow! ...my artwork is revealing "me" to...me...very cool!

And...my Mandala Journey timing is synchronistic with the (then-current) "Circles" theme over at Inspire Me Thursday - a site that inspires enthusiasm for creativity..and its sharing! "Thank you" to the creative mind behind it all, Melanie. - Bravo Melanie!!

"Structure & Flow"
"Crop Rotation" -- May 8

May 8
Portal to the Universe

Radio Waves - Tuning-in
May 10

"A Good Harvest" - May 11

"Life -journey essentials"
Created Sunday night - after Breathwork retreat
May 6

"A Peaceful View"
May 7

"Eye like what Eye see" Cheeriness, colorful new vistas of abundance and variety as far as the eye can see, from my view through cheery cafe curtains...with protective aaura.

May 7

Sun, Mother Earth, Water:
A View from Above

May 7

"Eye know you, Eye see you, Eye'm watching you, protectively."

May 7

Created the day after the retreat May 7 - This mandala tells me, "See...beautiful things can be created within structure...like coloring withn the lines" (sometimes).
- - - - - - - - - -

Created on Sunday night, May 6 2007 - after Breathwork