currently: i am...

Currently – I am…

Missing PLAYING THE PIANO. I confess. It has been a long time. I miss it though. I miss my piano. Try as I may, I can not think of one single good reason I ever let myself be talked into selling it. My son has a keyboard, but it just isn't the same thing. Ask a piano player, they'll tell you the same thing. This summer I plan on digging around the local auction houses. Maybe this Fall will find me tickling the ivories once again.

Purging  KITCHEN CUPBOARDS. All I really wanted to do was put a piece of tupperware away. One thing led to another, like it always does with me and cupboards and the next thing you know I am pulling ten years worth of stuff out of all the kitchen cupboards and drawers. My church thrift store is going to love me!

Wondering WHERE THE SCHOOL YEAR WENT. How in the world can it be the end of the year already? I swear it was just yesterday we were trying on uniforms and buying twenty five hundred reams of notebook paper. For what it is worth, I am happy to have Summer fast approaching. I love my kids and I miss them during the school year. Alot. I welcome our upcoming downtime together.

Creating WHEN I CAN. If I have said it once I have said it a million and a half times, LIFE HAPPENS AROUND HERE. The minute I get a good momentum going, something blindsides me and I have to go off the art grid for a few days. Do I like it? No. Would I change it? Not if it meant sacrificing family. Nine times out of ten I go off the grid for family. Instead, I pick myself up, dust off my stool and get back to work. Over and over and over again. This workshop,  GO GREEN – part of the new 21 Secrets Workshop Series for 2013, has made realize that art can be quick, easy and uplifting - even if I only have a few minutes a day to create.

Offering UP MY WORRIES. I could say this every month. I could say it every day. Without faith I would be lost. There is so much chaos that goes along with having a big family. To say I didn't worry would be a gross understatement, but I do try to remember that it is out of my hands.

Waiting FOR THE RAIN TO STOP. Don't get me wrong- I welcome the rain because lately we have just had too little of it...but...feeding the chickens is a whole lot sweeter chore when the sun is shining!

Listening to THE SOUND OF EVENING. In my house that means a living room turned music hall and the sweet sound of a violin.

Focusing ON MY VISION. I can't see. Really I can't. I have been struggling with a new type of lens that my body seems to want to reject. Today I learned that the only alternative might be to wear two lenses in each eye. Yuk. I came home with them in my eyes. Double Yuk. They hurt, they make my eyes feel dry and I still can't see perfectly well. Two weeks from now may find a new solution. I hope.

Sorting THROUGH MY PAINT STASH. Not my art paint. My house paint, and yes I do have a stash. Don't ask. I feel the need coming on to paint something. I broke the ice today with my better half and he seemed open to my newest hairbrained idea. I hope he still feels that way come Saturday. Fingers crossed.

Learning THAT SKETCHING DOESN'T GET EASIER. At least not for me. I have had not one, but two great teachers and I still am struggling. It is just plain hard for me. I am going to keep at it. I don't want to give up yet, but I so hope something happens in the way of maybe a fairy granting three wishes. I know what one of them will be.

Sewing NEW SCRAP BAGS. Not bags you keep scraps in, but bags made with scraps. I can't part with all of the those pretty little pieces at the end of a big project, so the scrap bags were born. I am having fun with a new look, but will continue to sew the ruffley bags too. Here are a few other ways I used old scraps! ---> look at how pretty this one is. And this one too! Old quilts have been finding new uses here too, as pretty, quilted bible covers.

Loving MY NEW PHONE. It has been a long time coming and I am so happy to just finally have a phone that works all the time. I am addicted to all of those awesome new photo editing apps and have to limit how much time I allow myself to play each day.

currently: i am...

Currently – I am…

Missing MY SOUL MATE. It stinks that life happens as it so often does and so work keeps us apart most days and nights - literally passing like two ships. It helps a person realize how much someone matters. I am sure this phase of life, like others, will too pass - but it won't be soon enough.

Purging  MY ONLINE PHOTO FILES.  All I can say is WOW and oh yea - don't wait until you have 13, 679 photos in Photoshop to make a final purge of things unless you like the slow torture of going blind, hunched over the computer for 8 hours a day six days straight.

Wondering HOW SHE CAN BE 12. How can my baby girl be twelve this month? No, really. How did this happen? I was just tucking a tiny curl behind a tiny ear as she slept in my arms. I swear it was yesterday.

Creating NEW THINGS. I thought it was fun being one of the instructors this year- teaching  GO GREEN – part of the new 21 Secrets Workshop Series for 2013, but taking part in the other classes has been a real joy! I am learning so many new techniques and creating some beautiful projects! 2 down and 19 to go. Want to see what I have made so far? Here is a peek at Project 1 and Project 2. Want to create alongside of me? Join in here!

Offering TO HELP MY COMMUNITY. There is never enough for those in need and I don't want to see the offerings end with the Easter Season. I will continue to offer up my time and treasure, as small as it is, when I can. This week our church continues to collect food for the Green Bag Project, a program that ensures no school age child in our community goes hungry over the weekend. So tonight, more bags of needed food items are packed and ready to be dropped off tomorrow.

Waiting FOR THE TIMER TO BEEP. I wait for so many tough questions to be answered these days, but tonight I am setting those things aside to wait only for the timer to beep. The smell of these babies -  Giant Chocolate Toffee Cookies is making the wait oh-so-long.

Listening to THE HUM OF THE DRYER. For someone like me, the rythmic sound of the dryer is soothing. I find comfort in the constant drone, much like I find comfort in counting.

Focusing ON FINISHING. I am intent on finishing all of the projects that I start this year. I am not allowing myself to start only to walk away. Seriously. But what about the twelve projects leftover from last year? Surely those don't count!

Sorting THROUGH MY PAINT BOX.  Why do I insist on keeping a bottle of paint (or 500) when there is just one drop left in the bottom that won't even squeeze out of the lid? Why I ask?

Learning THAT OLD WOUNDS STILL STING. Sometimes a really old hurt can still sting like it is new. Sometimes just hearing the right phrase triggers a memory, sometimes it startles you into bone rattling sobs. This week I heard something that made a long ago tragedy feel fresh and recent. It reminded me that a part of me is still empty and sad all these years later. It reminded me to hang on tight to what we love - it can be gone in an instant. It reminded me that Heaven is the safest place and to never lose faith.

Sewing BOOKS AND BIBLE COVERS. I am loving what an old book can be transformed into. Beautiful books for art, journaling, note taking or list making. Just look at how pretty this one is. And this one too! Old quilts have been finding new uses here too, as pretty, quilted bible covers.

Loving MY LATEST READ. The River Wife. I can not put it down. I seem to gravitate to historical fiction, or dated books. I took a chance on this one at my local library and it did not let me down. It is raw and lovely and sad and just plain good.

currently: i am...

Currently – I am…

Missing JUNKFOOD.  I recently discovered I was hypoglycemic and to make matters worse, eating all the “good stuff”, like french fries and bagels, makes it worse. And while I did not eat it daily, I am really missing it and find myself day dreaming about a Mc Donald’s run! Who’s in?

Purging  MY STUDIO DRAWERS.  I was in the process of making the supply list for my new workshop prototype recently when I went hunting for a particular item. I never did find what I was looking for, but instead discovered loads of forgotten tid bits. Needless to say I set aside list and prototype to purge the drawers. Two days later, I feel re-organized, fresh and ready to make my list.

Wondering WHERE WINTER WENT. With the exception of a few chilly days and nights, we have had nothing but beautiful Spring weather here in Florida. Todays forecast calls for sunny skies and a high of 80°. Perfect.

Creating A PROTOTYPE.  Inspiration does not wait. I was just finishing filming GO GREEN – part of the new 21 Secrets Workshop Series for 2013, when an idea struck for another class. I quickly made some notes and have begun the prototype. I am loving it and can’t wait to share it with all of you!

Offering UP MY WORRIES. As time continues to propel us forward, Life continues to throw curves balls as us. Tests and trials are for the strongest of his flock and I have to continue to trust in the good Lord and remember that my life is in His hands. He will take care of all things.

Waiting PATIENLTY FOR ANSWERS. It is tough to wait for answers. I pray for fortitude and hope that I do not give in to worry.

Listening to TRAIN. Mermaid.

Focusing ON LEARNING. I still have so much to learn when it comes to the computer. I continue to plow through all that photoshop has to offer as well as take mini courses on the mac, via my daughter, so I will be well prepared when my computer dies and I make the move to Apple.

Sorting THROUGH MY STORAGE CLOSET.  Every so often I like to “shop my home” for things. It is a quick and affordable way to change things around and make your place feel new again. I had forgotten all about a cool wooden bowl, several silver trays and a beautiful arrangement. Who knows what will find its way downstairs during the next rotation.

Learning THAT FRIENDSHIP IS HEALING. Even just a few stumbled upon moments with a good friend can make all the difference. Like fuel for a fire, a little laughter and reconnection can get us through another week with a smile.

Sewing ON PAPER. Making some new collage paper for an upcoming project.

Loving MY NIGHTLY CONCERT. Each night I am treated to a personal performance by my daughter – just her and her violin. There is nothing sweeter and I savor each and every note. I will never tire of this.

currently: i am...

Currently – I am…

Missing MY GROWN DAUGHTERS. I know I raised them to spread their wings and fly away, but I changed my mind. I want them back. Well, maybe not BACK back, but mostly back. A weekend here or there is not enough anymore. I need more time. More FACE time. Phone chats are great, but I always hang up feeling sad. Like I missed something. A hug maybe.

Purging  MY STUDIO DRAWERS. I have a goal this year to NOT PURCHASE any new art supplies - or at least not until I have used something up. I have been weeding through the tons of stuff and have decided to "upcycle" some of it in some neat new projects this Spring.

Wondering WHAT THE OUTCOME WILL BE. Health issues are always scary, even when you know they probably shouldn't be. So why am I so nervous about an upcoming appointment?

Creating A NEW WORKSHOP.  I am honored and proud to be part of this year’s all new 21 Secret Workshop. 21 Artists joining together for one full year of artistic learning and fun! I am also working a few other workshops and tutorials that will go live this Spring!

Offering UP MY WORRIES and MY TIME. I want to help more. I want to count more. I want to matter more. So I am volunteering more at the school, at church, or just when a neighbor needs a hand.

Thanking  GOD FOR SOME TIME WITH FRIENDS.  Even just a few moments with a really special person in your life can make all the difference. I will smile bigger this week just for having had that time with her.

Listening to THE QUIET.  I am alone today and I am relishing the quiet. Later there will be music and chatter and I will love that, as I always do, but for now - just pure sweet silence.

Focusing ON MY FAITH. No matter how many curves life throws my way, I have to be vigilent in my faith. I can not pretend to know what God has in store for me. So, while it may seem the path is tough, and IT IS TOUGH LATELY, I must remain faithful. It is the only way.

Sorting THROUGH MY CLOSET. In trying to find one simple item today I realized I need to sort. I am SO organized, but often find my most harried moments are when readying for the day ahead of me. My closet drawers often take the brunt of the hurried assault. Nice neat piles will make me happy again.

Learning THAT I AM STILL IN LOVE. When times are tough and life is difficult, we often take it out on the ones we love. It is with great relief that I find we can still smile through it all and laugh at the end of the day. We forgive, forget and move on. Only with TRUE LOVE is this possible.

Sewing SCRAPPY BITS as part of my upcoming new workshop, and a few fun little things for my Valentine's!

Loving MY NEW WINGBACK CHAIRS. I have been SAVING, SAVING, SAVING for new living room furnture and it is HARD! Every single time I almost had enough LIFE happened. It stinks, and I pouted a little a few times, but I am FINALLY THERE. My true love helped me the last leg of my journey with a sweet birthday gift and I have my lovely new things...stay tuned for photos!

Currently: i am...

Currently – I am…

Missing MY SISTERS. They each live hundreds, even thousands, of miles from me and I do not often get to see them. I am beginning to feel very sad that LIFE prevents us from gathering together to share and love and hug one another.

Purging  MY LINEN CLOSETS. It is no secret that I have a serious problem with collecting textiles. Well, sheets, blankets and vintage pillow cases are no exception. It is time to sort and ponder just how many of these beautiful things I truly need?

Wondering WHAT THE NEW YEAR WILL HOLD. There is certain to be change, I wonder just how huge it will be?

Creating A NEW WORKSHOP.  I am honored and proud to be part of this year’s all new 21 Secret Workshop. 21 Artists joining together for one full year of artistic learning and fun!

Offering UP MY WORRIES. I doubt this category will ever change. I have to continue to trust in the good Lord and remember that my life is in His hands. He will take care of all things.

Hoping FOR SOME TIME WITH FRIENDS. Each passing years proves to more difficult in terms of finding time for friends. My family consumes so much of my time, but friends are vital and I hope to find a way, in this New Year, to make more of an effort to carve out time for those important people in my life.

Listening to LINDSEY STIRLING. An awesome, young, hip-hop violinist.

Focusing ON THE NOW. What is important in the future may not be what I need to focus on right this minute. So many things that are in the now have the power to make me happy. I don’t see the need to concentrate on the future, one that may hold hardship or sadness. There will be a time for that, but not now.

Sorting THROUGH 406 PHOTOS from our trip North over the Holidays. Overwhelming but fully absorbing - I find myself smiling as I sort, remembering each newly acquired memory.

Learning THAT LIFE DOES NOT SLOW DOWN FOR US. I have to stay above water and it is tough sometimes. I wish I could just hit the pause button for a few moments, or turn the dial to a speed slower.

Sewing ON SOME DIFFERENT MEDIUMS as part of my upcoming new workshop.

Loving MY SPRING CLEANING. Okay – I know it is not Spring YET, but no one bothered to tell the state of Florida that. Today it is 85*, so it feels like the end of winter to me. And while we are sure to get another cool front, the warm weather and bright sunshine are all the  motivation I need.

currently: i am...

I am participating in Ali Edward's blog challenge.

Currently, I am:

Missing meal time. I never thought I would say this, but I am missing the fuss of family dinner. When I was cooking a big meal every night, around 7 different people’s schedules, I think I might have complained a time or two… (No more than that, I’m sure!) …but now that there is just the three of us at the table each night I am feeling a little sad… missing the banter, daily dramas and silly jokes that took place around that eight foot dinner table.

Purging  like crazy. I mean like crazy nuts. Rifling through closets, drawers, cupboards and pantries – chucking stuff left and right, getting ready for a big community wide garage sale. Last year it was a bust – only the Church Thrift Store, where I dropped twelve boxes of stuff off, made out like a bandit…BUT….I thought I would give it a whirl again this year. Besides, my local thrift store is looking forward to seeing me again!

Wondering “where the hek did the time go?” I see my “baby” climbing into the car after school and can’t believe it is the same little peanut that was just 4 pounds when I brought her home. She is still a peanut, but has entered middle school this year and has asked me EVERY SINGLE NIGHT SINCE SCHOOL STARTED to teach her to shave her legs! I tell her she can’t – she’s just the baby. She rolls her eyes and walks away…which leaves me right back where I started at 3:30 pm when she climbed into the car – WONDERING?!

Sketching a coffee table – a coffee table that I have been wanting for over a year now. Does it exist? Apparently, only in my mind, so I have been trying to make a rough (very rough) drawing of what I want it to look like so my husband can help me build it. I keep dreaming it will appear at IKEA, but so far it is just a dream.

Offering up my worries. It is tough to offer up your worries, to trust God whole heartedly, to let go, move on. I am actively offering up my worries each morning before I rise. I know that God can be and will be the only one to move me through what appears to be a tough situation. Reminding myself it is in His hands is a safe and sane start to each day.

Searching for a lost earring, STILL. I lost it two months ago. I won’t give up. It is my most favorite little earring. I don’t even know if I am searching in the right places, but just thinking I might find it makes the search worthwhile. P.S. Why are the $2.00 earrings always are favorites and the only ones we lose?

Listening to the sweet, sweet sound of my child learning to play the violin. It is fascinating to listen to her play as she seems to have a sound all her own. I want to close my eyes when I listen, that is how good it makes me feel.

Focusing on relaxing. Trying not to count while I do anything -  ok everything. Focusing on letting go and knowing I do not always have to be multi tasking. Focusing on slowing down and rewarding myself.

Photographing anything I see. I had missed this the last few months as I became busier and busier. Now I make time to do nothing but take pictures.

Learning all about Instagram and Facebook. I am terrified of social media and it has been a huge deal for me to learn it and live it as I try to grow my business. Some of this is hard folks – I actually had to take notes! I am not sure I can learn to love it.

Sewing up a storm. Lots of cool new things using reclaimed vintage quilts, funky new fabrics and even burlap. That machine definitely is getting a workout - plus the monotony of sewing calms me. The up and down of the needle, the hum of the machine, the trimming of threads, over and over again.

Loving  that my son love’s life. He is always LIVING – whittling his own bow and arrow for instance. Who does that now-a-days? He was on a mission to collect and prepare geese feathers for his flights. I drove him to a small local poultry farm and there he hunted and gathered only the most pristine feathers. I asked him why he wanted to make a bow and arrow in the first place. He said, “Because it is cool. I want to do lots of cool things in life Mom. Making my own bow and arrow is just one of them.”