karma button

GREENish FRIEND inspired by A WAKE-UP STORY

2010-06-29T13:46:00.002-04:00

For at least the last 3-4 years of my life, I have worked actively and steadily at making changes to provide a healthier, more enriching, safer, and greener future for my potential children. I've never been the girl to plan her wedding or contemplate engagement rings (actually, diamonds make my cry because I imagine little amputee children and it shakes me to the core)--but I have seriously thought about what type of mother I want to be, the life I want my kids to have, and the practical nature of how making small changes at a steady rate can exponentially help many around us. So, today I got lured into watching this video...suffice to say it made me cry but also inspired the impetus already brewing inside of me.

A Wake-Up Story from Healthy Child Healthy World on Vimeo.

So as a friend (who luckily has quite a few wonderful friends who share info with me regularly)...here are just a few things I do to make a healthier present and future....and by no means have I reached my goal, but it's fun finding ways to get there!

All-natural (as in NO chemicals) body products and when possible make them myself.

My darling Cyndy gave me the book Natural Beauty at Home which has been immensely helpful. One thing I always do is I make my own shampoo (a little mixture lasts me MONTHS and I don't NEED conditioner).

Companies I like: Tom's, Nature's Gate, Uncle Harry's, Dr. Bronner's

Green cleaning products

There are so many easy to make products, but luckily in the world we live in now, there are so many eco-friendly products to purchase as well. Ultimately I would like to be at the point in which I create more than I consume, but if you're in a pinch, choose the eco-friendly option!!

Products to keep on hand: Baking Soda, Vinegar, Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemmon Juice, Essential Oils (pure!!)

Community Supported Agriculture

I am lucky enough to have a few green market options nearby, but even better is the vegetable share I just joined through SI CSA, a friend asked myself and another mutual friend to go in 1/4 each and what a joy!! So far our weekly share costs the equivalent of $10.28 a week for more veg than we can eat (at just 1/4 each!) and we are getting ORGANIC, LOCALLY grown food!! I am excited because the harvest is expanding and we are getting so many great things now that the season is booming!

SO friends, I would love if you shared some of the things you do to help spread a greener, healthier lifestyle. I will add more from time to time! xoxo

TO PROGRESSIVE THINKERS: NIKOLA TESLA edition

2010-06-09T18:12:00.000-04:00

Nikola Tesla

Too often I have listened to gripes, fears, accusations and what-have-yous about the push towards clean and renewable energy. I don't understand how being sustainable, earth friendly, and financially savvy could be perceived in such a negative view--but regardless, these ideas and proven possibilities of clean and UNLIMITED energy are not new fashion, nor did the Obama administration concoct this notion purely to anger conservatives and corporations (ahem, BP). I have avoided allowing this blog to be a political launchpad, I have very little agenda other than inspiring...so I'll let the person of interest speak:

“...Furthermore, an inducement must be offered to those who are engaged in the industrial exploitation of natural sources of power, as waterfalls, by guaranteeing greater returns on the capital invested than they can secure by local development of the property...”

"Electric power is everywhere present in unlimited quantities and can drive the world's machinery without the need of coal, oil, gas, or any other of the common fuels."

“Out of this war, the greatest since the beginning of history, a new world must be born, a world that would justify the sacrifices offered by humanity. This new world must be a world in which there shall be no exploitation of the weak by the strong, of the good by the evil; where there will be no humiliation of the poor by the violence of the rich; where the products of intellect, science and art will serve society for the betterment and beautification of life, and not the individuals for achieving wealth. This new world shall not be a world of the downtrodden and humiliated, but of free men and free nations, equal in dignity and respect for man.”

“When the great truth accidentally revealed and experimentally confirmed is fully recognized, that this planet, with all its appalling immensity, is to electric currents virtually no more than a small metal ball and that by this fact many possibilities, each baffling imagination and of incalculable consequence, are rendered absolutely sure of accomplishment; when the first plant is inaugurated and it is shown that a telegraphic message, almost as secret and non-interfereable as a thought, can be transmitted to any terrestrial distance, the sound of the human voice, with all its intonations and inflections, faithfully and instantly reproduced at any other point of the globe, the energy of a waterfall made available for supplying light, heat or motive power, anywhere — on sea, or land, or high in the air — humanity will be like an ant heap stirred up with a stick: See the excitement coming!

”“Though free to think and act, we are held together, like the stars in the firmament, with ties inseparable. These ties cannot be seen, but we can feel them.”

FOR THE LOVE OF LIVE MUSIC...a continuous love story...

2010-06-08T20:18:00.000-04:00

Been in a waking life as of late and unwinding--preparing for summer...yet looking forward to a beautiful September that awaits....year 29 is going to start off smashingly....

On September 17th (the day before my birthday) I am going to see Vampire Weekend with my sweetie roomie-- this is an early celebration of year 29 and a gift for his recent Master's Graduation!

And, the astonishment hasn't event kicked in, but on September 30th I am going to see BELLE & SEBASTIAN!! In my world, this is quite a big deal!!

Suffice to say, there are exciting and inspiring waves to come!

xoxo

I SHAKE MY HEAD AT YOU NY!

2010-05-10T15:34:00.002-04:00

Seriously New York, why??

Why are the first things cut always what benefits our future the most? Ahem, schools/education?

All is full of love...

2010-05-06T21:26:00.000-04:00

If I were to start sharing everything I would burst...but while walking on tight ropes with the wind blowing heavily, there is so much beauty! Here's to hope.

"In the long run the pessimist may be proved right, but the optimist has a better time on the trip." -Daniel L. Reardon

well.balanced.

2010-04-15T16:52:00.000-04:00

photo by Danielle Thompson

To laugh often and much;
To win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children;
To earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
To appreciate beauty,
to find the best in others;
To leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
To know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Lately, despite life's general chaos, I feel quite balanced.

Success to all.

xoxo

TIME FOR A STORY: THIS AMERICAN LIFE

2010-03-30T15:11:00.000-04:00

   Thank you for feeding my mind and soul. Thank you for your beautiful vignettes and cinematography. Thank you for valuing the story of humanity and making me remember that I started my journey to do the same. Thank you for inspiring me, making me weep, making me smile, making me think, making me remember. Thank you for reminding me that messages always come when we need them most...messages that are/were always there, but pop up at those delicate moments that will impact you the most.

   Over the last two days I have watched all of Season 2 of the show (thank you Netflix and Spring Break!) What started as finding some background brain food to accompany my crocheting on a rainy, sinus-headache kind of evening became the obsession of the moment and that final epiphany that had been brewing for so so long. Personal epiphanies are always so hard to explain and end up becoming far too wordy for something that is just 'experienced'. So I will spare the twisted road that led me here to tell a short prelude to a yet unfinished story.

   My entire life I only thought of becoming an 'artist'. In ways I was bred to do that. There weren't many other options though my parents would tell me I was capable of doing anything I wanted. Part of me never believed them. In the meantime I was made to sit home and draw, draw, draw. So, in the midst of teenage confusion I did the only thing I knew, I applied only to art schools. My dream school was Pratt, and I got accepted immediately. I will never forget the phone call to my dad and then sharp reality, how was I going to pay for it? So I went for my FIT interview/portfolio test thinking at a SUNY I could at least get financial aid. I got accepted immediately and began the enrollment process. And then I went home and didn't tell anyone that I wasn't really happy about the reality of being a 'fashion illustrator' just because a school wanted me. So I avoided picking classes. I let them call me and ignored them. My best friend starting grinding me about making a decision. I broke down and secretly went with her to enroll at the College of Staten Island. I had an epiphany. I wanted to be a writer. My 'private' art in a world saturated by art.

   After I finished the enrollment process I went home with said best friend to tell my mother the news. I knew the result would be ugly--and much of the reason I wanted to write in the first place. Little did I know my mother was aware that I had been evading the prestigious FIT. Thus my big news became more reactionary than I had intended. I'll never forget her charging towards me screaming and asking why I hadn't scheduled my classes. I retorted, I did, just not at FIT. I finally sputtered out that I enrolled at CSI and that I wanted to write. I distinctly remember flinching, awaiting the barrage of screaming and hitting I had come to expect. But I actually ended up laughing at her reaction. She screamed, "Writer? Who reads books?" and then continued with, "Now my daughter's name won't be on the ass of my pants!" The reality was I read. Voraciously. I secretly stole books and lived with stacks around my bed--makeshift tables to hold more books and journals. I never planned on designing clothes at all, I was accepted as an illustrator...but her reactions were all typical of many parents, she was projecting her dreams for me onto me, despite their truth.

The irony? My dream was a projection of her. I wanted to write to tell her story. I wanted to write because she doesn't read. I wanted to write because no one else did. And somewhere I lost that spark. I became as insecure about reaching out as I did with my art. I graduated college with Professors ready to hand me phone numbers for editors at the New Yorker and agents in LA. And like that moment with my mother years before, I turned my back and went in another direction. The truth, I wasn't ready to tell the story I needed to tell.

   You may be wondering what any of this has to do with a show. And I will tell you: Big or small, every story is significant. Every human being, every experience, every ounce of expression important. Every day we live stories, and our existence is part of a much larger story than we can imagine. Over time my blog has become more about art and craft, partially to escape from telling stories or being judged or losing readers. Whatever any of that really means. So, I encourage everyone to remember, everything we share is part of our story, and if anyone or no one reads this, it is still being put forth and that is what matters ultimately. I am listening. I am reading.

xoxo

I WANT A PAINT-BY-NUMBERS WALL!!

2010-03-28T15:58:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't??!!

I wonder if my school would let me borrow one of the old projectors...hmmm

Check out Design Sponge for the how-to!

xoxo

SECRET OBSESSION: VINTAGE TIES

2010-03-09T17:25:00.000-05:00

So, I believe everyone has some secrets...so here is one of mine:

My modest vintage tie collection!

I started collecting ties about 15 years ago. Why do I call this a secret? Because sometimes when I let people know I am 'into' something, I end up getting tons and tons of that genre of item...thus my 'secret' obsessions or collections..my little quiet treasures.

Not that I would mind tons of vintage ties! But the lovely part for me if randomly finding ties that want to come home with me. I am actually rather particular!

I look for enticing patterns, textures, color families.

And I love them all so much.

[SEW COMPLETE]: BUTTERCUP BAG

2010-03-05T18:59:00.000-05:00

First I crushed on this fabric I found at the local Joann Fabric and Craft store:

And then I finally got to play 'for real' on my darling new machine!

And here is the first bag I have made that I am actually proud of!!

The pattern is the Buttercup Bag from the very awesome Made by Rae.

The lining is fabric I thrifted at the local Unique.

Here are some of the firsts I accomplished with this project:

1. Actually cutting and preparing a project in advance!

2. Pin tucks

3. Inserting a snap

4. Making a pocket

5. Sewing a yoke

6. Mastery of attaching strap between lining and outer...

Suffice to say I am pretty happy...and although it has been quite a stressful few weeks, finishing this projected lifted so much! As much as I want to sew sew sew more, I have to crochet a scarf for my dad and rest for yet another work day!

xoxo

CREATIVE VENTURES: WHAT I'VE BEEN SEWING

2010-02-28T11:41:00.000-05:00

[source]

CREATIVE GOAL #???: LEARN TO SEW!

Of the many lists I like to make, one important one I have been developing is my "Creative Goals" list. I hate putting creating on the back-burner to all of life's other responsibilities, but I figured if I set goals, bit by bit I will reach them. Luckily I have friends like Cyndy and Renee who inspire my many ventures!

Being able to sew has been a goal of mine that has often been tossed aside since I was a wee-little lady. My mother always had a machine and baskets full of amazing buttons I would sift through-- but she rarely ever touched the thing and despite many promises, I never learned to sew on that old machine. I eventually learn some basic stitches and even hand-sew trinkets and doll clothes throughout the years.

Then I got my first machine about five years ago as a gift. Suffice to say, if I have made two or three things per year on my pretty lady I would be stretching it. But I am determined! I now have a relatively functional sewing space, loads of vintage fabric ( all thanks to the thrift revolution here on Staten Island) and even more old clothes to repurpose/upcycle. I have been slowly coveting inspiration, tutorials, and overall courage. I even splurged and am awaiting this baby.

I find myself easily discouraged and often without time or energy, but I don't give up...I just make baby-steps...teaching yourself everything requires you be both a good teacher and student simultaneously, and well...I may have adult ADD when it comes to playing both roles! But here are some projects I have actually 'completed' and what I've learned along the way!

Purse Organizer

This was a gift for my lovely step-mom and although there were clear imperfections, I think she still loved it for the effort I put in.

A lesson on materials: Because I used thick vintage upholstery fabric, it was a total waste of time to put in interfacing, which made the project so thick I broke one needle trying to sew through the layers of the edge!! Plus, I definitely need better quality thread for this type of material! I will definitely make this again though!

Zippered Make-Up Bag

This was another gift for my step-mom and the first time I tried to sew on a zipper.

Suffice to say, I didn't totally nail the zipper business and had to rely on my trusty friend: Fabri-Tac for a few fixes, thus the decorative ribbon edge to hide some mistakes!

Messenger Bag from Cargo Pants

I immediately fell in love with this project and got cutting up all of my old cargo shorts that either don't fit or have paint etc. all over them. This project was rather ambitious for a real beginner like myself, but I took it on...and though I made a ton of mistakes, the bag is still usable!

I made my own bias-tape out of vintage fabric. (I used fabrics I wasn't too in love with for this project because I knew there was plenty of room for error!) Making the bias-tape wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be! The strap was probably my biggest issue! Having cut up shorts, it was hard to get strips long enough, so I had to sew two pieces together--luckily the nature of the material permits random sewn pieces without looking out of place!

The strap is probably shorter than I would like (it hangs to just above my hip), the flap is wider than the rest of the bag (which is evident from the awkward stitching on the back), I couldn't figure out the whole strap between the lining and exterior inside-out trick....so I awkwardly sewed them to the outside using the x-box method. Really it's a bit of a mess...but it's complete and functional...thus I am somewhat proud.

Anyone else out there finding their craft endeavors daunting at times?

QUICK DIY PROJECTS

2010-02-22T13:09:00.002-05:00

Here are two quick projects I finished up so I felt like I did something creative over the break:

1. No Knit Scarf: inspired by Think Liz!

2. T-Shirt Recon taken from my trusty Generation T book!

Check their site for tons of great ideas!

Cute braided strap detail! Sorry for the photobooth quality!

What are people making out there? I am considering buying a new sewing machine so I can be more productive! Hmmm...

INSPIRED BY: [HOME INTERIOR VIGNETTES]

2010-02-20T17:01:00.001-05:00

I have been practicing this art through many apartments and find so much inspiration around the internet. There is something so special about making the ordinary beautiful. I love looking at little vignettes around my home and those of others, and seeing art!

On top of my desk in the office nook.

by It's Great to Be Home, whose flickr is infused with gorgeous examples of her styling!

Yet another series of inspiring interiors by imacookoo/squirrelpearl.

Rachel has to be one of my primary sources for decor eye-candy! This is one of my favorites because she coordinates even the smalles details for impact!

This one is by the uber-talented Leigh Ann!

I get goofy happy and inspired by the attention to details and art everywhere...perhaps to the point of being obsessive/idiosyncratic about 'arrangements' around my home...but I find peace in artful juxtaposition of items.

"Art is the only way to run away without leaving home." ~Twyla Tharp

INSPIRED BY: [VINTAGE BUTTONS]

2010-02-19T21:44:00.001-05:00

[source]

...for their design utility, for the nostalgia, for the cuteness, and because I love sifting my hand through them.

“For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream.”

-Vincent Van Gogh

INSPIRED BY: [THRIFTED TREASURES]

2010-02-17T21:24:00.000-05:00

Lately our local thrift shops have grown in number and quality and I love little more than going treasure hunting!! One of these days I will put together a user friendly local guide to my favorite 'treasure troves'...until then, here are some of my most inspiring finds of late:

Awesome retro-printed vintage upholstery fabric around .50 a yard!!

The above from BAY STREET THRIFT!

I better get on the sewing train with all of the fabric I find at UNIQUE.

The fabric on the left is from my friend Cristyn's nonna! Just scored the brown fabric at UNIQUE and can't wait to make a bag from it!

These are my favorite UNIQUE fabric finds! I think I paid about $5 and there are at least three yards of the denim!

And then this napkin set:

I am thinking these would be great for embroidering...any ideas??

The cashier and I shared a nice moment of understanding over this find! This will gladly join my 'She-Ra' thermos in exalted status!

The shoes on the left were $4 at UNIQUE and the other super-effing cool pair are from a Swap Party I went to last weekend!! SUCH A FUN and cool experience!

And then there are these special finds from my favorite little secret:

...GRANT CITY ANTIQUES...

I love love love treasure-hunting here! These two 1960's enamel brooches were only $1.50 each!!

Sigh. So many lovely things to gush about and new creations to dream about!

Anyone else finding anything special lately?

“In the souls of the people the grapes of wrath are filling and growing heavy, growing heavy for the vintage.”

-John Steinbeck

SOMETIMES I INSPIRE MYSELF...

2010-02-13T12:30:00.000-05:00

...is that wrong?

1. My very own Glockenspiel!!, 2. reflection of silver trees, 3. St. Paul's Ave. Garden Gnomes, 4. 2005 822, 5. Door of Glass shop on Van Duzer, 6. Alice Austen House: Isadora Duncan Dance Troupe, 7. <3..., 8. At the playground, 9. Something's Hiding In Here Booth!!

I like to take pictures.

To me, photography is an art of observation. It's about finding something interesting in an ordinary place... I've found it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them.

-Elliott Erwitt

COLOR LOVES: [TURQUOISE AND YELLOW]

2010-02-12T21:39:00.001-05:00

COLOR LOVES: [TURQUOISE AND YELLOW]

[SOURCE]

"The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
– Winston Churchill

THERE'S ALWAYS ETSY

2010-02-11T19:14:00.001-05:00

So, I am behind as usual, lots of life happening...no more excuses or explanations, just inspiration:

CB78: CHRISTINE BERRIE

THE EVER FABULOUS ASHLEY G

TUESDAY MOURNING

ALYIOSIUS [KATE BANAZI]

BIRD AND BEAR [JOETTA MAUE]

DESIGN IDOLATRY: ALEXANDER GIRARD

2010-01-18T19:43:00.001-05:00

DESIGN IDOLATRY: ALEXANDER GIRARD

Visit House Industries for a beautiful homage to Girard and an array of amazing products and Girard fonts!

Of the many many artists/designers I adore, I cannot escape the unending inspiration I continue to get from Girard-- even posthumously!

But here is why I love him so much...

Alexander Girard, besides being a pioneer of Mid-Century Modern aesthetics,

...you were also an artist who lures me in with your mixture of folk and modern...

...who designed so many beautiful textiles juxtaposing geometry with the organic...

...and used typography as an artistic form...

...and you understood that art is a way of life:

“Art is only art when it is

synonymous with living.”

— Alexander Girard

For more on the impact of Girard, check out this great article!

And to seriously, Urban Outfitters has so many Girard products I want to weep!!

Like these:

And here is serious wishlist item:

My favorite one from Electra Bikes!

Hope you were inspired!

xoxo

KARMIC GOODIES: THE THIRD AND THE SEVENTH

2010-01-14T22:53:00.000-05:00

Beauty of epic proportions by Alex Roman. Hope this inspires you as much as it did me!

The Third & The Seventh from Alex Roman on Vimeo.

Thank you to Jason Joseph for sending this my way!

xoxo all!

ART I HEART: TREY SPEEGLE

2010-01-12T21:01:00.001-05:00

ART I HEART: TREY SPEEGLE

Thank you for Poppytalk for introducing me to Junk Culture Shop who introduced me to Trey Speegle!

Dear Trey Speegle,

...Your work mixes my love of kitsch Americana with a subversive attitude...

...combining folk art forms with modern principles or aesthetics...

...you channel Rauschenberg, Jasper Johns, and Joseph Cornell...

...you use iconography and typography to a profound effect...

sigh.

Send some love his way!

xoxo

ART I <3: MARC JOHNS

2010-01-11T18:47:00.002-05:00

ART I <3: MARC JOHNS

Dear Marc Johns,

So many of your illustrations:

....inspire me to create...

...suit my love of irony...

...capture my whimsical fantasies...

...make me chuckle from the gut...

...and all around make me smile...

Art makes me happy!

...and...you love lightning bolts...

If you want to send some love to Marc Johns:

check out his flickr, buy some stuff , or peruse his site!

xoxo

KARMIC GOODIES: TO-DO LIST TEMPLATE FOR YOU!

2010-01-10T17:19:00.003-05:00

KARMIC GOODIES:
TO DO LIST TEMPLATE FOR YOU!

I really believe I have Adult ADD...or at least when I am home. Earlier today I started a new blog post for a series I want to start and it disappeared...rather than fret, I moved on to millions of other tasks. Vacuum for a few minutes, then stop and craft, then more housework, stop and create...and so on.

So...in the midst of everything else I want/need to do, and share, I made new pocket-size to-do list pages. (Which was on the to do list for this week anyway!) There are many awesome (and free) planner pages around the internet-- like DIY Planner and Ahhh-Design-- and inspired by the latter and this great tutorial and template I made my own to share.

You can download my template and follow these steps, or just doodle like I did. Either way I find the act of using creativity for the daily rigamarole gives me incentive to actually commit to the things on the list!

1. After doodling 8 list templates on cardstock, I made a copy and got my trusty bone-folder and Xacto.

(You can use any straight edge for folds, I just love the ease and precision of the bone-folder.)

2. Fold in half lengthwise.

(If you are doodling your own, make sure to make your images facing in opposite directions so they are all even when you fold. You could measure your drawing or make fold marks with the cardstock so you know your drawing perimeters.)

3. Unfold and prepare to cut along the fold between these two points only!

Just like this!

4. Then fold all of the pages in to make an accordion.

Like this!

5. Then open the slit and fan out like a diamond.

Like this!

5. Then fold your little book any way you want!

(Notice I only put 7 lines per day, I read a study that if you give yourself only this magic number of tasks to do, you are more likely to accomplish what is on you list!)

I hope you enjoy! I left these simple so they can be colored and played with throughout the week. I already started filling mine out! I would love to see what you do!! Link up!

xoxo

Here's the LINK to the PDF! Let me know if there are any problems!

TO THE FINE 2009...

2010-01-05T20:57:00.001-05:00

...I am not too sad that you are over! Don't get me wrong, I loved you in your own right, but I am excited to get to know 2010!!

So, a final farewell...thanks for the magical moments.

I made this photo-collage with the intentions of sending it to my grandma so she could get a glimpse into my life this year.

Lots to share....hopefully time will find me before I chase after it!
Hope your 2010 is starting off with optimism!

A GIFT OF MUSIC {2009 STYLE}

2009-12-30T22:15:00.010-05:00

KARMA BUTTON'S FAVORITE 2009 MUSIC

{as in the albums that came out this year because I can't possibly keep up with all of the music I listen to!}

Add a playlist to your page using iLike

My Night With The Prostitute From Marseille by Beirut
Someday by Tegan and Sara
Black Rainbow by St. Vincent
Hysteric by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Southern Point by Grizzly Bear
"Thank You" by Jay-Z

Add a playlist to your page using iLike

Dominos by The Big Pink

More The Big Pink music on iLike

DISCLAIMERS:

**The Big Pink was a last minute add because I haven't listened to the album, I just became cheesily obsessed with the song while watching the BBC series "Being Human"

**Sorry for the multiple embeds, had issues with the embedding!!

I hope you enjoyed this playlist and hopefully discovered something new to love! If you are on ilike, find me so we can share more music!

xoxo

"If music be the food of love, play on." -William Shakespeare

INSPIRING BLOGS OF 2009 [and beyond]: LOVE THOSE HOOKERS

2009-12-30T02:11:00.002-05:00

Thank you Royal Sister for this tutorial!

AND by hookers I mean, CROCHET HOOKS!! {yes, cheese is one of my middle names}

One year ago I dislocated my shoulder (which was THE worst experience of my life so far) and taught myself to crochet because I go insane if too many days pass and I am not making or doing something, my main {left} arm was immobilized for some time and crocheting predominantly requires one's right arm--voila a new obsession....and since then I am ever so thankful that I filled a negative part of my life with a skill that keeps on giving!! That's right, I said SKILLZ!!

KARMA BUTTON'S 2009 TOP FIVE CROCHET BLOGS:

ATTIC 24

Attic24 you have made me obsessed with granny hexagons, taught me how to join as I work, and offered me so much inspiration to hook away!! {lol}

THE ROYAL SISTERS

OMG Royal Sisters you make me use abbreviations! Thank you for the awesome pictorial instructions and the star tutorial-- I sold about 15 for our 1st Holiday Fair {ALL proceeds went to our club-- I didn't even pay myself for supplies} Those stars kept my mind busy during some hard times this past month!

CREATIVE YARN

This is one of the sites that made me want to get good at crocheting!! I love her patterns and have made SO SO many variations! {some showable, some beginner's crud}

CROCHET SPOT

Great place for beginners and for so many user-friendly practical projects!

ROSEHIP

A very recent find with so much more creative inspiration than crochet! I love her style and personalization of an age-old craft!

There are really so many great crocheting resources on the internet. I attribute the computer to my own development--whether it was the latter blogs, the plethora of group sites, youtube for tutorials, or just random searches for a specific project. Hope anyone reading this gets a glimpse at why I love this newish {and overabundant} hobby!

xoxo

INSPIRING BLOGS OF 2009 [and beyond]: PEOPLE OF {my} INTEREST

2009-12-30T01:04:00.003-05:00

Been a busy bee cleaning up the studio in the hopes of it eventually being a functioning workspace, regrouping from the past holiday and the coming New Year, figuring out what is exactly wrong with my gastrointestinal system, and crocheting like a mad hooker. Regardless of all the crazies, here is some reflection-- my top five inspiring personal blogs. Each of these individuals {lovely ladies} motivate me to do so much more, and bring beauty to my internet world on a regular basis. In the hopes that I complete my series of 2009, here is phase I:

KARMA BUTTON'S {INTERNET} PEOPLE OF INTEREST [2009 STYLE]

ELSIE FLANNIGAN

I have loved this super cute chica for years. If I were to partake in fandom beyond the realms of LOST, she would be on my list! She bestows me with so many ideas, eye-candy, and hope in one day being an independent artist of sorts.

Isn't she adorable?

RACHEL DENBOW

When I started following the work of Elsie, I inevitably fell in love with her partner-in--crime Rachel. The two of them make me dream of meeting my creative soul mate too! I love Rachel's practical and stylish approaches to life, her insight, her honesty, her photography, and her overall great taste!

DANIELLE THOMPSON

Besides her gorgeous photography and love for all things vintage, Danielle is the creator of Kitschy Digitals which makes me want to hone my photoshop skills! I have a cetain "je ne sais quoi" fascination with her photos and use of PS actions. Sigh!

I want to make all of these!!

SILJE of LITTLE BIRD CRAFTS

Besides being overall beautiful, Silje supplies me with a belief in doing it all and saying eff it to the world. haha. silly, but true.

I covet her sewing skills and body art!!

KERI SMITH

always!!!

Keri Smith has been one of my ultimate sources of inspiration and confidence for years now. Here amazing books have given me reasons to explore my creativity and continue as an true observer and explorer of the world!!

If you want to challenge yourself as an artist, and as an inhabitant of this world, I suggest checking her out!!

Well, it looks like Round I is about the ladies...and as anyone who reads this knows about me, crafters/artists. Hopefully this little blog challenge will inspire you, help me organize, and most of all recognize the patterns in what I enjoy and wish to share!

xoxo

"I make the most of all that comes and the least of all that goes."
– Sara Teasdale

A TIME OF BEAUTY

2009-12-23T20:32:00.000-05:00

santa hat + music + lovely photography x wrapping presents= happiness!

1. have a merry and a happy!, 2. Shiny-Brites, 3. Vintage Candle Ho HO HOLDER, 4. Pretty For Christmas, 5. ...candy cane love... explored, 6. Shiny Brite Spill, 7. Untitled, 8. This year's Shiny Brite collection Part 1, 9. Untitled

KARMIC GOODIES: MORE FREEBIES/UPCYCLING

2009-12-13T17:45:00.000-05:00

PRINTABLE POCKET CALENDAR

by To Have and To Hold

(I love that you can embellish the template to suit your style and/or available supplies!)

TREE CONES

by Kind Over Matter

(You can paint the tubes or even if you don't have toilet paper tubes around, you can

just glue the cones on top of each other for a paper tree!)

COFFEE SLEEVE WREATH

by Magpie & Cake

found via Craftzine

(I am not going to lie, I both save and steal these for projects but you could use

any recycled cardboard!)

TEARDROP ORNAMENT

by A Little Hut

(You could even paint some newspaper or use magazine paper!)

"The important work of moving the world forward does not wait to be done by perfect men."
– George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans)

MORE HOLIDAY INSPIRATION

2009-12-13T17:25:00.000-05:00

While I am planning some more meaningful posts and feeling very akin to the nasty weather, here is some visual stimulation:

1. Untitled, 2. menagerie, 3. Antlers, 4. Untitled, 5. Joy, 6. 2009 HOLIDAY DECOR: Mantle Close-Up, 7. Ruby's Corner, 8. jackpot, 9. Trio of Cloth Knee Huggers

HOLIDAY DECOR WITH WHAT YOU {might} HAVE!

2009-12-09T20:15:00.000-05:00

HOLIDAY DECOR WITH WHAT YOU {might} HAVE!

Upcycling for the holidays--from Martha Stewart!

these cute fabric trees are from The Small Object-- I want to try this with paper!

Recycled Magazine Trees from Just Like Martha

Such a great idea!! I hate throwing magazines away....but sometimes it gets to be too much!

Yarn Trees by Pretty Ditty

It would be cool to use up scrap yarn and upcycle some cardboard into a tree shape for this!

These cuties are from Design Sponge

I love the idea of re-conceptualizing items in our homes!

Added Bonus for wow-factor:

these paper Finnish Stars are from Fry Dog Design

"A person who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new."
– Albert Einstein

PRINTABLE HOLIDAY GIFT TAGS I LOVE:

2009-12-08T17:05:00.001-05:00

PRINTABLE HOLIDAY GIFT TAGS I LOVE:

A PRINT A DAY

(So much more than just tags here! sigh, i just adore her madly!)

BADBIRD

(i <3 these illustrations)

HELEN DARDIK

(can i love her any more than i already do?)

OLD-SCHOOL LOVES:

ASHLEY G

(still my favorites!)

MARTHA STEWART

(these were my most used last year! I love the colors and the fun retro designs for everyone!)

SEW MAMA SEW

(for those handmade gifts!)

"Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit."

– e. e. cummings

KARMIC GOODIES: PRINTABLE 2010 CALENDARS!

2009-12-07T22:05:00.001-05:00

Customizable photo calendar from the SHUTTER SISTERS!

(Requires some from of photoshop program!)
or check out another adorable and customizable calendar
FROM SCRAPBOOK INSPIRATIONS!

This is one page I made as a little gift for my dad!

They are sized to fit a CD case!

Super cool DADA CALENDAR by LITTLE BROWN PEN

CANON'S CREATIVE PARK

(I find so many fun things here!)

An awesome mid-century modern/retro calendar from BLUE ANT STUDIO

Hope you enjoy!

xoxo

CROCHETED GIFTS

2009-12-06T22:11:00.000-05:00

Some things I have been making for presents:

PETITE SCARF

(I made my flower into a pin so that it is removable or could hold the scarf together more securely. I really love this and can't wait to post my pictures!)

TRIBBLE TRIVET

(I want to make a million of these!! A great tutorial too!)

GRANDMA TWINKLE

(After seeing so many beautiful star garlands I went on an insane webquest to finally find the perfect FREE tutorial!! Since I spent many many hours by my mom's side in the hospital, this was one of those great projects to tide the time in a beautiful way!! Love love love their other tutes as well!)

And for all of the crochet lovers out there, here is the MECCA of all crochet sites

(brace yourself!)

CROCHET POET'S PATTERN COLLECTION

xoxo

HOLIDAY INSPIRATION

2009-12-06T14:39:00.001-05:00

While I am working on a few big posts, here are some of my recent holiday faves:

1. Santa Pop, 2. candy canes, 3. Vintage Ceramic Tree and Deer, 4. DSC_0518, 5. Let The Magic Begin, 6. Our Christmas tree, 7. "...And The Stocking Was Hung By The Chimney With Care, In Hopes That St. Nicholas Soon Would Be There...", 8. pink*red*white, 9. Vintage Pink Glass Christmas Ornaments

What is inspiring you this holiday season?

Side note: We had our first snow yesterday--large fluffy flakes that turned to sludge but left a nice dusting over the landscape--just the right ingredients to make me want to stay in all day and soak up some seasonal energy! xoxo

KARMIC GOODIES: VISUAL THERAPY

2009-11-30T19:02:00.000-05:00

I am ever-so-thankful for flickr!

1. evolve, 2. Untitled, 3. inspiring...., 4. sweet affirmation, 5. not to put too fine a point on it, 6. u lune, 7. Don't Give Up (first explore!), 8. positivity, 9. Group hug

HALLS ARE BEING DECKED...

2009-11-29T21:23:00.001-05:00

Here are some peeks inside my home...

On the mantle, my modest collection of knee huggers!

And this sweet little elf!

Vintage light reflectors!

The full view:

And my literal hall is being decked as well!

Just little bits of joy amidst a rather rough holiday weekend!
Hope you are making the most of what's around!

"You can't always get what you want...but if you try some time you just might find, you get what you need!" -Rolling Stones

FAUX-LAROID SANTA GARLAND

2009-11-29T00:40:00.001-05:00

FAUX-LAROID SANTA GARLAND

I have been in MEGA house cleaning and decorating mode, and since I am trying to limit holiday spending this year I put together a SUPER EASY and cute garland inspired by the lovely Elsie and a photo spread from this month's Martha Stewart Living magazine. This project took about an hour and could easily be embellished more or altered depending on what you have around the house-- but tonight was about squeezing in some late-night craft for instant gratification!

Supplies I Used:

-Martha Stewart magazine spread ( 9 santas! )

-trusty glue stick

-white cardstock (for weight)

-red crochet yarn (I used some Sugar 'n Cream)

-crochet hook ( I used a size 8 to make quick loose loops)

-paper cutter

-mini-clothespins (I happened to have some Jolee's Boutique, but these are cute!)

-red pom pom trim

What I Did:

1. Cut out santas!

2. Cut cardstock so that each piece is 3 inches wide and 4.5 inches long

3. Glue santas to cardstock leaving more space on the bottom to mimic the polaroid look

4. Crochet a long chain (mine was made making 150 chains)

5. Tie pom pom trim to chain

6. Hang garland

7. Clip on santas!

I SINCERELY HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS PROJECT!

Let me know what you make-- love the inspiration and motivation to create!

(I only had 8 mini-clothespins, so I saved my favorite to decorate my hallway!)

27 Things I am Glad I did Before 28...

2009-11-20T17:03:00.003-05:00

photo by Mad_T

I have been wanting to write a post looking back on my "27 Things Before 28" list (thank you to Andrea for motivating me to consciously do this for the past few years)--as in what I did or did not accomplish, and sharing my new list...yet it seems it takes me awhile before I can fully reflect and put things into words. Today I was first inspired by Elsie and the photo above...so I will share the supplemental list I made a few months ago (when I actually turned 28) to make me feel better about the things I didn't do on my initial list.

27 Things I am Glad I did Before 28...
(some huge, some seemingly trivial)

1. Van Duzer Days!-- Upcycling Booth--on two different weeks I broke out of my shell and upcycled loads of junk through the outlet of art and sharing! I felt like so much was purged--literally and figuratively by the simple acts of sitting on sidewalks painting cardboard with people. So many things I love all wrapped up in single days full of creation and friends!!

2. Matt Accardo portrait-- I had secretly hoped I would one day be photographed by Matt, who has since become a great new presence and inspiration. I love how he captures people, and mostly that he is recording stories of our island!

3. Tattoo #4-- gam zeh yavoor: This Too Shall Pass. To lift me up when I am down, to humble me when I am too full of ego...to remind me of impermanence and irony.

4. Sewed a tool roll-- I never follow through on projects...this once I did! The tutorial came from Lotta's Simple Sewing book!

5. Vedic Astrology classes-- every Thursday I either host, or at least commit to learning and discussing so many amazing things along with my friend and astrologer Jay!

6. Movies at the Tibetan museum!-- a J.P., Jay, and I ritual when there are events!

7. Saw a Meteor!--even though there wasn't much of a shower, J.P, Cristyn and I hung out on the beach and enjoyed the sky. Each of us saw one, separately--thus we know there were at least three that sprayed across the sky!

8. Got a new bed!-- a real big girl bed!! This has perhaps been one of my largest adult purchases...and my body thoroughly thanks me for this...especially after spending months sleeping on a couch and then futon!! ouch.

9. Got a Bicycle!!-- a super rad electric blue vintage one!! (yes, RAD!)

10. Made a chocolate chickpea cake! (indulgent and good for you!!)

11. Made Zucchini cupcakes! (I feel similarly about these as I do about the chickpea cake!)

12. My Peanut-butter granola balls--(need to find a shorter name!) were loved at a local Wellness fair!! Yummy little doses of energy! Easy (and healthy) recipe came from Everyday Food magazine!

13. 92 Y blog mention!!!

14. Featured on scribble project-- this entire concept is so much fun and inspiring!!

15. Started 365 project-- though it has been quite hard to be consistent here! Overall this project has been quite a profound little journey for me!! hmm...

16. Crocheted a gillion tawashis and dishcloths!! Gave some to friends, use some...love 'em!! I have learned that one ball of Sugar 'n Cream yarn makes exactly two tawashis!

17. Made my own shampoo-- can't remember the exact source of the recipe, but essentially I just used some lavender Dr. Bronner's castille soap (thank you Cyndy for introducing me officially!), a splash of apple cider vinegar, a drop of olive oil, and water--put it all in a spray bottle, shake and use! This will last forever and makes my hair so much healthier...and mind you saves a lot of money on product that robs you of your natural oils.

18. Participated in a Red Velvet Art on-line craft class!

19. Made my own room mist-- no more buying toxic air sprays...a few drops of REAL essential oil and water in a spray bottle!

20. New upcycling projects!-- making journals for and with friends, inspiring others, discovering so many more ways to be self-sustainable!!

21. One allergy free room!!-- much to my cat's chagrin, my bedroom is my ultimate sanctuary...though dust magically accumulates no matter what!

22. Survived a difficult break up relatively unscathed--and helped some friends with my determination to enjoy life at all costs! Keep on truckin' through thick and thin! (yay Grateful Dead reference!)

23. Had a student thank me in a speech and another tell me her tattoo was inspired by life lessons I taught in class. Not much is better than those moments...

24. Iphone!-- do I need to even explain the beauty that is iphone?? I am an open Mac lover!!

25. Finished books 1-5 of Sookie Stackhouse series and caught up on the show--total indulgent mind numbing brain candy...guilty as charged!

26. Cristyn and I became addicted to Being Human and all things BBC America (see 25!)

27. Renegade craft fair! Such a fun day with so many opportunities to take photos!!

I do all of this so I can remember, and share the little things that make life so so worth it. This alone is a huge challenge to myself and to all of you...take time to consider what makes you feel good about being you, about the life you lead and the people in it. There are so many things each year that make life difficult, but I try to balance that with beauty and gratitude...and for my own sake, for my loved ones, and perhaps for my hypothetical future children I try to document all of the good so I can one day look back and say "beautiful".

WHAT I WANT TO MAKE THIS X-MAS [PART III]

2009-11-15T17:56:00.000-05:00

CREATIVE YARN

CROCHET SPOT

(This will be perfect for my friend Jesse, who luckily never goes on the internet!)

CROCHET SPOT

(so many awesome tutorials!)

TIPNUT

TIPNUT

NOODLEHEAD

WHAT I WANT TO MAKE THIS X-MAS [PART II]

2009-11-13T11:16:00.001-05:00

Getting excited!

PRETTY DITTY

RAVELRY
(made one so far though I think I made it too small!)

REFINERY 29

THE PURL BEE
(I started one of these, but the thread wasn't right so it was hard.)

CONFESSIONS OF A COMPULSIVE CRAFTER

WHAT I WANT TO MAKE THIS X-MAS [PART I]

2009-11-12T16:33:00.001-05:00

If anything I feel like I am late in contemplating the holidays...

LARK & LOLA

ATTIC 24

SUZANNE STEIGE

LAUGHING PURPLE GOLDFISH DESIGNS

(Made one already!)

NATURALLY CARON

Looks like crochet is the theme!! I have two projects (not listed here) started--will share more soon!!

MEMORIAL CRAFT

2009-11-11T12:02:00.000-05:00

In learning to cope with life, I need to create. Here is to adding to life when encountered with voids.

This paper memorial was first hand drawn on cardstock, then cut. I used clear jewelry wire to attach the cloud to a twig I found, and then used the wire to attach rain drops made from cardstock. I like the droplets from afar, though up close one can see I glued dimes in between the paper for weight. I think of the dimes as offerings so that I don't obsess over the imperfect aesthetics. Now I just need a proper home for this piece.

I made this papercut for my friend Denise who passed recently. Not only was she a living Shakespeare encyclopedia, but she is the person who propelled my love of the bard. One of her favorite plays to teach was "The Tempest", which to date is one of my own--and the play the broke my brother out of his box. The text reads: "How many goodly creatures are there here! How beauteous mankind is! O brave new world that has such people in it."

And here is a touching poem my brother wrote for our bard:

Sleep Soundly Lady Macbeth
(in loving memory of Denise Simone)

The sky looks like it's cooking up some sort of mess,
a tempest and someone isn't going to make it.
That's when I heard about what happened to you
as my tears swell up from this great tragedy
I hope you know what you did to my life
with kindness and support.
Can I wish you a Midsummer's dream
in the belly of the Fall?
My burning barge, how I thank you
you've made me into this perfect sonnet
and taught me that all's
well that ends well,
but the night brings forth shivers.
Tell me, where did you find those clipped wings?
And why did you say the looked good pinned on my back?
Walk along with the ghost of a literary father
bow out like a satisfied, underpaid actor
remembering the power of words
because sometimes "I love you" is just enough.

This papercut is for my friend Joe "Semz" who passed a few years ago. The design was taken from a well known photo of him featured in a magazine.

I drew some contour lines and made some tweaks so that I could transfer the soul of this image into a papercut.

To Joe

You were never just a name on the wall
you were a work of art
misunderstood
vibrant
your name was never you

cisco in a she-ra thermos
staring at the city ahead
ferry boats
hiding out by the water
it's so high now
our rocks are almost gone

underground universes
kicking of our shoes
new york explorers

the tower windows
even they are gone

you let me paint your nails
break into your car
you revealed your face
and i kissed your forehead

we cried until we laughed
we laughed until we snorted
and marked our territory
before we disappeared

BE AN EXPLORER OF THE WORLD...

2009-11-10T18:29:00.000-05:00

because I love Keri Smith...

because this is the meaning of life...

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS: Enough of this Death, Let's Celebrate Life...

2009-11-01T20:34:00.000-05:00

110/365: To The Dearly Departed

It takes me a long time to process many things of an emotional nature. My logical self has to go through a series of panels with my emotional self until I have a conclusion. Let's say that takes awhile sometimes. Especially when it comes to how to be after someone close has died. Perhaps no one is ever prepared for the amount of death or loss he/she might suffer in life. Sometimes I think I have had more than my fair share at 28. Statistics can lie.

As a child I was pretty accepting of the passing of souls, and even though I have tried to keep a spiritual perspective on this natural part of the cycle, as I get older and see the numbers increasing...the truth is, dealing with it really sucks--no eloquent words for this feeling. I say this purely out of the ego of the living--out of someone who can't quite wrap this experience up neatly for any others. I guess I deal through sharing and expressing-- keeping memories alive. Perhaps that is a deeper part of why all of my tattoos pay homage to the paradox of the infinite depth we can feel/experience combined with the impermanence of moments.

When someone leaves this world, I look at myself much more closely and nitpick at all the "shoulda, coulda, wouldas". Anyone who has lost someone knows the pain eventually turns into self-reflection and moments of "dammit I miss 'so and so'". I am lucky enough to know that all of the people who have gone are still very much alive in my heart, but I am sure you all know the desire to have one last moment with that person near--a last moment to shout "You rock my world" and such.

My typical conundrum is that for many, discussing death is a source of discomfort--usually because of having to look at one's own impermanence. That is not so much the case for me as I secretly try to maintain the life of the dead through my thoughts, artwork, memories, stories-- and it is rare that I share that with anyone....but it is through stories and sharing that people become infinite--that their energy is still palpable.

Those are lessons I have learned from two amazing people who are no longer in the physical bodies I knew them from. Two people whose lives were devoted to expressing, sharing, living OUT LOUD. So, here is me breaking out of my interior world to shout "YOU ROCK MY WORLD" to two people who would have been celebrating birthdays last month, who deserve to be remembered even if I can't give them that last hug and I am not one to attend wakes, here is to the promise of celebrating life.

DENISE SIMONE

(1958-2009)

Denise and I circa 2004.

(Can't find my external hard drive for other pictures of her in full force!)

Denise was my brother Chris's English teacher in high school. She was also inadvertently one of my inspirations to teach at the school I'm in. Her energy deeply affected my brother, and I attribute her influence as the turning point in my his life. She helped him see the magic he had and pushed him to share that. She made the wallflower blossom--and since Chris is one of my best friends in the universe, and one of the most beautiful souls--- I thank Denise for so much more than just my own amazing experience of her.

This is a woman whose heart was boundless--there was no limit to what she had to give to all who encountered her. She was the type of educator I still aspire to be-- she pushed others to reach their potential and make their visions reality. She believed in experiencing as much as possible and exuded a sense of dramatic glamour and passion in every aspect of her life. When I was a wee student teacher she passed her love of Shakespeare on to me when I was scared out of my wits to approach the subject at all--yet she pushed me and not only gave me the odd confidence to perform in front of my future bosses, but gave me the strength to accomplish anything I set my heart to. She was my mentor, my colleague, my friend, my vision of possibility. Her drive was unparalleled and I am glad to have been on the journey of her dreams for some time. She showed me the supreme nature of what it is to be a teacher (even outside of the classroom) and the power we can have to deeply affect others in ways we may never know in our short lifetimes. I am glad I always let you know.

JOEY "SEMZ" MCCARTHY

(1976-2007)

Even though it has been close to three years since Joe passed, his memorial came the day after I learned of Denise's death. Both were sudden, untimely, hard to digest. I have a feeling I have blogged about Joe before, but probably at a time I was too private to specify people. Very few people know about the impact Joe had on my life. He was my friend at one of the most instrumental times in my development. He was like a brother who drifted in and out of reality inspiring people in the oddest corners of the world. In a "New York state of mind" Joey is a legend for his graffiti, his artwork, his music. I never cease to smile when remembering our escapades...living with total abandon...kicking our shoes off of the escalators in the towers, contemplating life by the harbor, naps on park benches, painting his nails...In my world, he was someone whose soul I understood--who was a friend when I needed it most--who shaped me in ways he could never know.

At Joe's recent memorial I was thrust back into a vortex of time/emotions. I was able to reconnect with the spirit of art he exuded and the heart that goes into every creation. I got to tell his parents what Joe meant to me-- how he believed in my path, encouraged me to succeed in college though it wasn't the pursuit many of our friends were choosing at first. He never let me feel like I sold myself out as an artist but insisted that I would ultimately give so much more as a teacher. He knew that the point is to share one's message-- in any pursuit.

Much love to everyone out there. For the sake of life, love, expression, remebrance, passion, and sharing. On this day, Dia de los Muertos, and all others I send my prayers and my heart-- the end of the physical life is not the end of one's affect on the living. To all I have and all I've lost, you are cherished.

KARMIC GOODIES: QUOTESKINE

2009-10-18T15:03:00.002-04:00

Just an, "i -exist-have-lots-of-things-brewing-but-wanted-to-reach-out-and-share" post!

If you have looked around my little cyber living space you will know the following:

i love art.

i love typography.

i love sharing.

i love quotes-- or any little poignant thoughts that resonate.

thus i love:

QUOTESKINE

Lee Crutchley's work is fun, satirical, thoughtful, and inspiring.

There is an addictive sardonic quality about this project of his, but I also love his form, simplicity and dedication. Art is an action. Sometimes I believe it's a civic responsibility. Other times I think it should just be great to look at!

Too many that I love! Check out his flickr set!

ON STATEN ISLAND AND REASONS {for me} TO STAY HERE: Part I

2009-10-11T15:14:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my home. I have invited you here many times before, but I don't know if I've clearly introduced you.

"clinging to the earth" taken on the usually forbidden hill at the back of the Tibetan Museum-- but today was special: The Tibetan Festival. Through torrential rain we celebrated life here.

I am a native Staten Islander. If you are a New Yorker you already have a dozen notions about what that means. For everyone else, that statement probably lures a big: "sure and...?" Well, it's not so simple. This is a place that is so much more than where I have grown up. There is a quality to Staten Island that is ultimately unique, at times controversial, at others mysterious and rife with misconceptions and inside jokes that are often self-deprecating.

from my window...

When I was much more focused as a writing major in college, a few professors urged me to write the Staten Island story...they understood the complicated nuances from the position of outsiders stepping in for a few hours a week. The closest I have gotten has been a few mediocre poems, satirical short stories, and 'blink-and-you'll-miss-it' backdrops to stories of long ago. Yet, the need to share the island still creeps up. I notice how it has started to drive me in photography, in blog entries, and in the way I have learned to see myself through all of it. I left, and came back--albeit kicking and screaming and plotting my next escape. But I am here, and I believe in being happy wherever you are. And lately, the urge to leave has quieted, and instead I hear whispers of "Stay", this is home...what I know of it anyway.

from the window of the special nook/office in my apartment

Maybe I am inclined to find beauty in everything for as many moments as I can-- but perhaps there is a certain charm unique to the energy of this place. Something that keeps me here.

Moments like this:

and this:

At Alice Austen House for Bridge the Gap II JP surprised me with this amazing birthday cake! Lots of love and sharing of his beautiful gift.

Places like this:

Richmondtown. The day we gate-crashed at the Richmond County Fair. Where little cub and I ran around holding hands and pretending we were back in a time before the rest of this place grew.

and this:

The Jacques Marchais Tibetan Museum. One of my favorite places to be. On this day we got to go up on the hill and look down on this baby shambhala. Despite the rain we embraced our little magical home for the sake of the Tibetan Festival...and although a barely recognizable percentage of this island came to an event like this...it still exists...and that's beautiful to me.

and of course this:

my sanctuary...

Even this coming Thursday there will be a FREE lecture by THE Robert Thurman at Wagner College (walking distance!), here on the brigadoon of Staten Island.

So perhaps I am forging a daunting path...but I hope, over time, through photos, through art, through writing, through it all-- to exude the beauty that is my home and my life here....because all of New York already knows the ugly of Staten Island...and that's okay with me...because I like having our little secrets.

Much love all!

KARMIC GOODIES: LOCAL ART I HEART

2009-10-04T13:21:00.000-04:00

I have been desperate to find the energy to blog...I have been pulled in so many directions lately (all of my own doing really) and pray that I establish some sense of true balance one day. Either way, I wanted to share some local goodness and love of these awesome friends!!

JOHN "EXIT" TREMBONE

photo taken at recent art gathering "Bridge the Gap II"

A little bit of background: seriously a local legend, I have so much respect for John because since I first met him 14+ years ago he has kept creating, expressing, being true to forms of art that have been misused and forgotten at times. John built this pyramid himself and had a bunch of us add pieces to the top to make it a communal message.

I think my friend JP or Cyndy took this, but this is one of the only pics of the piece in it's "completed" state. I think I look totally silly here, but my darling Jenny said I looked like a curator!

John's photo-- from "Homeless Art Gallery II"

DEMETRIUS FELDER

photo taken at "Bridge the Gap II"

There is nothing Demetrius can't do. An amazing spoken word poet, a dancer, a painter-- another local genius! I have been lucky to spot a lot of his work and love the energy he brings to any venue!

photo taken at "Van Duzer Days Part I"

this is Demetrius's photo of a mural done on the side wall of a local haunt "Martini Red"

KEVIN MAHONEY

of Robots Will Kill

photo taken at "Bridge the Gap II"-- So lucky to watch this gorgeous piece take shape. The subject is his adorable niece (who I got to meet that day!) Even though Kevin doesn't live on the island anymore, he is another one of those people I knew "way-back-when" who has continued on his path as an artist and is out there doing some amazing stuff!!

Kevin's photo!

Kevin's photo! This is one of my new favorites!

There are so many talented people hiding out here on Staten Island...and I love it. Rarely do I show pride, but lately I am proud of my home and at least a fair amount of people who inhabit it. I thank these and so many more friends who have made this place happen again...there will be more local love to share here! xoxo

Sad, but not too much....

2009-10-02T20:45:00.000-04:00

Sad is one of those many words like"nice" that is so vague and trite I don't know when to use it anymore. I am sad, but I am also quite happy. I am in my pj's before 9pm on a chilly friday night...is that sad? Lately I feel I "just know" so much, but claim to know so little, except this:

UPHILL JOURNEY

2009-10-01T15:30:00.000-04:00

I have done it again! A month of ideas and experiences. A month of epiphanies. A month without blog posts. I have even been slacking with my 365 Photo Project...not entirely wanting to look at myself as often. This is the time of year I dread and pine for. The new school year. Another birthday. The equinox.

Thrust right back into the machine! But this year is different. It's in the air. I am now 28, and in my "Saturn Return" period. I am learning deeper lessons--getting better at this whole life thing, and hoping I won't let this world slip away. So many beautiful things have happened, but naturally, so have many hard realizations that having a month off will allow me to sort through. So, despite all of the vagueness here, I am alive and pensive...aware that a lot of work needs to be done...thus my little playground here has suffered. The self-derived pressure of posting keeps me from posting. So much I want to share, thus I share nothing. Hoping to bring some goodness back here soon!

xoxo

THERAPY DOODLING

2009-09-01T22:47:00.000-04:00

For me, there is no limit to the many therapeutic hobbies I can take up. The truth is, though my face often belies a calm exterior, I feel. A LOT. I have numerous outlets, mantras, rituals, and techniques that build me up. One of them from a very young age has been drawing, or as I like to call it doodling-- because the intention is really just about release. So recently, I have been doodling a lot for some reason...and even though I am relatively protective of my private life, I am more than willing to bare myself. Here are some recent doodles and the lessons behind them.

"It Was The First...Always Will Be"

This doodle was made with the intention of being a papercut of sorts. The truth behind it is that I am aware that any experience you have for the first time, any milestone, will always have its place in your life, memory, and heart. There are some things that you can't change or escape. Perhaps decisions, relationships, adventures....the first is always the first. So I told myself to stop hiding from that reality.

"You Can't Go Back"

Another potential papercut, this one is both for me and my friends. The key to life is to keep moving forward essentially. We can never go back, but we can make a better future, and even at times correct our past along the way.

"Will We Ever Meet Up"

This kind of represents how I feel about men and women. It seems like we can be from opposite ends of the universe. One of my friends said it was like women were always a step ahead of themselves, and men three steps behind. It makes me wonder where we ever really meet in the cycle. Can we fully understand each other and live in balance--or we will we always communicate from opposite ends of the universe?

Hmmm...this post ended up being way serious, but as I said....it's all about outlets, being open to express and feel, and to learn from everything...to purging...

EXPLOSIONS. IN. THE. SKY.

2009-08-31T14:10:00.001-04:00

MUSIC IS MY MEDICATION!

My most amazing friend Cristyn got me an early birthday present: tickets to see Explosions in the Sky with The Flaming Lips at Penn's Landing Festival Pier in Philly. So this Saturday we took what started as a nice drive into the area, and as we are literally approaching the inner city, a huge storm (monsoon!) hits...we saw it lingering over us, creepily lurking until BOOM! Luckily it passed quickly and brightened up nicely for the show.

I have been over to Penn's Landing a bunch of times before, but this was my first time at Festival Pier for show. The full concert area is much smaller than what I am used to, but it was intimate and nicely set up. It never got too crowded and there was enough around to occupy the wanderers in between sets.

There were bleachers set up, a few tarped areas with seats, and a huge blow-up hall that was HUGE and had tables, pop-up bars and a huge screen to view the stage from water-damaged cameras. Later we would all be super thankful for this dome!

Waiting for Explosions to start!!!

What's funny is that even though The Flaming Lips were the headliner, I was much more excited about Explosions in the Sky since I have seen the The F-Lips before. I didn't get any decent pictures (and iphoto has been eating some of them lately), but in short the show was painstakingly beautiful and epic. I almost cringed over how good they were!! What a tight band! I must say I was all flushed and could only mutter "holy sh*t" when they were finished. I cannot rave about this band enough!!!

Here is a taste of one song from the show:

"First Breath After Coma"

And check out the bassist here!! WOW!

The Flaming Lips came on with the same charisma as is expected of Wayne Coyne and his regalia. The opening sequence/ introduction to their show involved all of the members walking out of a psychedelic birth canal...which was kind of funny in an eye-brow raising, curious about the amount of young children in the audience kind of way.

The Flaming Lips know how to put on a stellar show experience:

At the beginning of the set, Wayne Coyne told the audience that another storm was approaching--but they would play for as long as they possibly could. There were intermittent updates, but the band let us know they were in it if we were!! And they played-- solid, tight-- I firmly believe they had to up their game since Explosions opened for them...and then, the magic of the weather forecasters in Philly hit precisely as was predicted. The band kept playing as people were running for shelter. I luckily had a poncho, but became drenched before I could even get it on. About a minute in the band was forced to stop and everyone sought shelter in the dome.

So we sat and watched the water seep up from the ground. We could feel the entire complex being bombarded by some of the fiercest rain I have experienced. A few times the place became aglow with lightning...and over an hour later, the venue security announced they were canceling the show and kicking us out into the storm!!!

Despite my disappointment, I really love random odd experiences like this and smiled a lot despite the circumstances....really I was still in the clouds from seeing Explosions....

Hiding from the storm:

So, to send some inspiration:

MORE EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY!!

This one gives me serious chills:

I am so excited about my dawning 28th year! I haven't even started a new LIST and already I have tickets to see Sufjan Stevens, The Dodos, and Tegan and Sara in October alone!!! Good things ahead!

DOPPELGANGER: PART TWO

2009-08-19T14:03:00.000-04:00

Coming from a mixture of ethnic backgrounds, it is a rare occasion that someone tells me they saw a look alike of mine. I get a lot of vague similarities, but this is definitely the second time I have been piqued by a supposed doppleganger!

This portrait actually freaks me out a bit, mostly because my brother randomly spotted it while on a roadtrip with friends. They were staying at one of the guy's uncle's place in Arizona. Supposedly the house is full of regional artwork and while scoping out the collection my brother came upon this painting of a Native American girl and immediately grabbed his friends to say, 'this is my sister!' When I finally saw the image I was shocked because it really scarily does look like me. Down to the facial expression, eyebrows, nose.... Bizarre.

I started to wonder about alternate lives, double selves, past lives, and all sorts of esoteric possibilities. I wondered who this girl was/is, if she was just a figment of an artist's imagination that ended up being a projection of me, or if she was someone significant. The uncle wasn't around for my brother to inquire, so I am left with mystery and another reason to smirk at life.

For those who know what I look like, what do you think???

KARMIC GOODIES: UP-CYCLED/ MIND-BENDING ART

2009-08-18T17:35:00.000-04:00

I can't remember where I first stumbled upon the eye-brow raising work of Tim Nobel and Sue Webster, but I felt the need to be yet another blogger supporting their concept.

Image by: pashasha

Not only do I love the use of trash (or any resources available to you!), but the intricacy and depth behind this project are so profound! Anything that can be deep, saavy, playful, and mind-bending is worth sharing with others! Enjoy! And honestly, do you find yourself getting chills by looking at some of these? Maybe for me it's the shadow concept, or the shock of the figures being projected so clearly through trash. Tell me what you think!

taken from Raw Art Weblog

I know this one is naughty, but it is pretty amazing to see:

taken from an awesome article on Environmental Graffiti!

photo via Simplistic Art

HAPPINESS IS:

2009-08-17T17:50:00.006-04:00

-->This mention in the 92Y blog!

-->This photo as part of a local series, by the amazing Matt Accardo:

I hoped to be part of his series since so many people I know have been photographed and look amazing! This was taken after a sweaty day of art making during Van Duzer Days part I.

--> Being in the Top 50 Arts Blogs through Facebook!

--> Seeing Animal Collective as part of Celebrate Brooklyn in Prospect Park!

(Here is a supercool article since my pictures didn't come out well!)

--> Watching a Staten Island renaissance bloom!

--> Remembering the bliss of first loves-- and the chaos too, but being totally accepting of that 14 years later!

-->New people, new music, the potential of the future!

--> Sitting on my porch for hours with nothing I have to do other than listen to birds chirp and my iTunes shuffle.

--> Tickets to see The Flaming Lips with Explosions in the Sky in Philly next week!

--> Scoring tickets to go see Sufjan Stevens and also the Dodos at Music Hall of Williamsburg (my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE VENUE) in October!

--> The last two episodes of True Blood, and the show Being Human on BBC America!

--> Peter Jackson's District 9!

CEREAL BOX UPCYCLING: A COMPENDIUM

2009-08-14T13:49:00.001-04:00

UPCYCLING CEREAL/SNACK BOXES: A COMPENDIUM

Image by: Chris Toumanian

Why I love Cereal/Snack Boxes:

-->They are the perfect thickness for many craft projects! You can generally cut through these boxes with ease!

-->They are a great size for so many projects! You can turn one cereal box into at least two journals and two bookmarks with ease!

-->They are usually very colorful and fun (thus requiring little necessary decoration!)

-->They are altogether so versatile, but mainly they are ABUNDANT TRASH!

There is nothing better to me than finding ways to artfully or pragmatically reuse items rather than even exerting the initial energy to recycle. After seeing so many people using my literal garbage to paint at Van Duzer Days I was elated to know that all of the trash got new beautiful life for awhile. Everyone created with abandon and I felt comfortable fostering that since essentially our canvases would have been more landfill anyway!

So, to inspire you all further:

Things I Have Made:

-->magazine files

-->journals/ notebooks/ notepads

-->artful diorama

-->bookmarks

-->blog banner!

-->dry erase boards

-->stencils

Other uses/ideas:

-->I have now learned that these are the perfect canvases to paint on!-
-->But I tend to use boxes as my pallete or floor mat
-->penants!
--> kids face masks
-->paper dolls (for kids to decorate!)
-->wall art (I love so many of the colors and designs of cereal boxes!)
-->photo-mats (though you may want to use archival spray unless you want your photos to fade!)
-->place mats (you can cover them with clear plastic contact paper or vinyl!)

Awesome Tutorials/Templates:

-->Shala Beads of You Have To Wonder: Mega-List of Crafty Ways to Reuse Cereal Boxes!

I particularly like these Match-Book Style Mini-Notebooks. My version, I call "Mini-Art Pads make these with cut recycled paper and some pretty cardstock scraps. These cannot be more simple since all you need to do is cut, fold, and staple once!

-->Her Cup Overfloweth's awesome Cereal Box Tote

-->Replayground has so many fun ideas for upcycling! This Food/Cereal Box Wallet is easy and fun to make!

-->Plum Pudding uses cereal boxes as postcards, and Decorative Globes!

-->Applehead's Elastic Bookmarks (Cyndy and I made these awhile back and they were so cool!)

-->The Long Thread's Make-It Monday Cereal Box Journal! (I have so so many easy versions that I will have to pour into a visual tutorial a la karma button! A few of you at Van Duzer Days learned my super quick tricks!)

-->Whimsy Love's Mini-Cereal Box Organizers are so cool!! I have a bunch waiting!

-->Cereal Box-- Gift Box 1 (via Curbly)

-->Cereal Box--Gift Box 2 (via Instructables)

-->Cereal Box Gift Bags

And PLEASE, cue me in one any other cool ideas you find or come up with!!

TASTY KARMA: CHOCOLATE CHICKPEA CAKE!

2009-08-13T22:18:00.002-04:00

After trying a delicious chickpea cake I decided I had to try to make my own since I always have chickpeas on hand. Most recipes call for orange juice, which is what I had tasted-- it gave the cake a nicectartness, but since I didn't have any OJ on hand I found a recipe for chocolate chickpea cake and seriously it is so good it deserved its own post!

I found the recipe here and added a little bit of dark chocolate cocoa powder to the batter. My kitchen is somewhat short on supplies, so I used my magic bullet blender as a food processor and a large oven capable frying pan as a cake pan. I figure if I can make a frittata with it I can make a cake.

The picture isn't so pretty, but I assure you it is unbelievable tasty and looked nicer turned over. I was going to make a lemony glaze, but after tasting the cake I realized it didn't need much else. There is a richness like a mousse, yet a brownie like quality. You would never know this was made without flour-- so go to this all of you gluten free eaters!! Yum yum yum!!

Conquering my fear of the oven!

Oh, and one question: WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE NEW BANNER?

xoxo

CINEMATIC KARMA: "Where the Wild Things Are"

2009-08-12T15:50:00.002-04:00

Really I have wanted to post about this trailer for so long but I can't contain myself waiting anymore. If you are not deeply moved and inspired by the following, then you need to revisit your childhood!!

BE INSPIRED, REVISIT MAGIC:

Did you not swoon over the depictions of the wild things? The overall mood of the mise en scene and cinematography? Did the juxtaposition of reality and fantasy mixed with Arcade Fire's "Wake Up" not make you fall back into a state of nostalgia, but also trigger a tear somewhere in the corner of your eye? Did you start to think Fall will be wonderful because this film will be out? Did you say to yourself, "Wow Spike Jonze, thank you for waiting for the right film!"? If not, I said it all for you.

Not only is Maurice Sendak's original book one of my earliest inspirations, but I continue to read this book aloud every year to my...(gasp) High School students. You would be surprised at how many of them have never glimpsed the magic of classic children's books. With some of my more advanced classes I have a deeper discussion about the power and symbolism behind children's books, but usually I just let the art express itself.

I can't wait to see how the film pans out and if it keeps to the integrity of the story. The imagery reminds me of the way children's films were made when I was growing up. A certain darkness and isolation that is quite akin to how so many kids still feel. As far as I can see, the trailer seems to do that and more, and I hear Sendak supports the film....so I patiently wait and contemplate taking out all of my original (still in the boxes) Todd McFarlane toys to ogle.

UPCYCLING @ VAN DUZER DAYS: WEEK 1

2009-08-06T12:52:00.006-04:00

SUMMER STREETS: VAN DUZER DAYS

CELEBRATING ART, CULTURE, COMMUNITY!

Promotional drawing by Chris Sorrentino! (I believe I am the Scottie!)

For a little over a year now, the art scene on the island has started to regain its bearings and unite in so many magnificent ways. With groups like SICOLAB and the many collaborations established through councils here, a mini-renaissance is brewing. In cooperation with NYC's Summer Streets, one part of the local "hip" or "happening" areas was closed off for most of this Saturday and became home to a wonderland of culture and buzzing creative energy. Van Duzer St. has been one of the artistic apexes of the island for quite a long time, but being in such a transitive area has often gone without its deserved appreciation. The street houses multiple antique shops, vibrant colors and architecture, the 'posh' restaurant Vida, the local haunt Martini Red, the artsy coffe-house The Cup, and a plethora of inspiring niches--this is one of my favorite neighborhoods to photograph!! Thus, Van Duzer Days-- a celebration of home that I knew I HAD to participate in!!

Van Duzer Street (facing Beach Street). As you can see, we totally lucked out with the weather!!

A Montage of the Lovely:

My Story: When the event was in its planning stages I offered to do some upcycling projects to celebrate art (Week 1's theme) and to finally break out of my invisible (though quite suffocating) shell. I went through various degrees of anxiety and procrastination but scolded myself and refused to allow myself to flake out. One of my dreams has been to be part of an arts happening. To create freely. To share share share. To inspire and teach others. But most importantly to both pioneer and participate. I was nervous and insecure...though I know I have SO MANY COOL THINGS TO SHARE. I just put something together and decided to play the event by ear and go into the entire day with quiet intention and little expectation other than to be mellow and have fun. I kept promotion out of my scope since all of this has been so new to me. I figured I would make something work and feel out the overall vibe.

Little did I know, the day would be a whirlwind of loveliness, nearly a week later and I am still spinning with reflections, inspiration, appreciation, and new ideas. I spent Friday in partial panic, and Saturday I spread some of that to Cristyn and Jay (who I owe the world to!) What we set up was a completely upcycled "booth" filled with paint and brushes for anyone to decorate while I tried to set up projects.

My "booth" on the corner of Van Duzer and Beach Street. Simple.

Here I am setting up shop. I made a binder of tutorials out of two file folders for people who were interested at the multitude of things to do with Cereal Boxes!!

photo by Laura Bruij Williams--whose brilliant little daughter was giving out stickers promoting my blog...I need to hire this kid!

I had NO IDEA how popular this would be!! I was so so so lucky to have Cristyn on hand to tend to the hordes of people wanting to paint any old piece of cardboard! For a good amount of time, my area was the busiest...abuzz with pure creative expression and curiosity. I had little expectation, but what occurred was well beyond what I could have imagined. My original intentions were to use up some of the massive amounts of cardboard I have collected (which is so much I decided that this week would be purely cereal/snack boxes and cardboard variants), share ideas and possibilities with people, make an art happening, and introduce people to the beauty that is upcycling. The reality was an all-ages union of art making on the streets. An empowering arena for free-expression and creative reuse of essential garbage.

Union of worlds through art!!

I spent most of the day behind the scenes multi-tasking and spinning in the clouds. From time to time I forced myself to stop and look around at everything happening. Words cannot describe my awe. The entire street was rife with beauty and the insane buzz around my booth--albeit overwhelming, was pure magic to witness. People LOVE painting on garbage!! And some of the work I saw was beyond fabulous!! (I kept some of my favorites!!) Here are some looks at what was being made:

Jay with his "niece" and "nephew". I can't get their grandmother Marjorie's line out of my head: "There are the children at work and the inner child at work." Perfect.

True beauty!!

A mother and child in the throws of art!! I made a little art-pad and gave it to them, in this picture I got to see awesome Mama making art inside of it!!

Aren't these amazing???

Our "gallery"!! It was beautiful to see how happy the kids were to see their work displayed! The ones that remained--that I didn't keep, I hung up on the telephone poles nearby. I was happy to see that after a storm on Sunday, by Tuesday many were still there!

Lucky for me Cristyn maintained a lot of order, which gave me the chance to make loads of stuff for people, keep a clean area (the goal is about reusing junk and not creating more!), socialize in dribs and drabs (which is hard to do when your head is spinning), and get actual chances to embrace the festival. There was simultaneous art making and upcycling! I got to make and teach others how to make upcycled journals (my tutorials to come) and got to see children and adults marvel in personalizing their works!!

Everyone was so focused and excited to make their own journals!!

This brother/sister duo were two of my favorites. I made them journals and they sat for about an hour decorating their journals on the inside and outside. I was amazed at how excited and thankful they were...even more so, how much they loved the simple act of creating!!

These make me so so happy!

Evidence that I was in fact involved in all of this! I am not sure if most people knew! Hahah!

Photo by Jason Siegel (who took my camera for awhile to make sure he got me tons of photos!)

Overall, I was more in my element than ever before and proved to myself that it won't kill me to step out of mystery and step up to my dreams. I now appreciate my home, friends, and even myself in such a more profound way!!

For more pictures of the day, check out my flickr set! I am contemplating another Van Duzer Days Week 1 post....either way, there is so much more in store!!

For even more information on Summer Streets Van Duzer Days:

SILive article #1 and #2

COME CELEBRATE CHANGE!!

2009-07-25T15:03:00.001-04:00

1. 25/365: Connected by Patterns, 2. 26/365: Don't Forget your Helmet, 3. 27/365: Mommy Dearest, 4. 28/365: Self-Sustained and Drained, 5. 29/365: Simple Day Satisfaction, 6. 30/365: Shine On, 7. 31/365: Movement, 8. 32/365: Summer in Bloom, 9. 33/365: Sometimes I channel..., 10. 34/365: Restart, 11. 35/365: Day and Night, 12. 36/365: Sing me to sleep, 13. 37/365: Independence:Interdependence, 14. 38/365: Home is where..., 15. 39/365: Life's Beachy Keen, 16. 40/365: Chick + Truck= Moi, 17. 41/365:Floating through, 18. 42/365: Order in the court!, 19. 43/365: Appearances, 20. 44/365: Stayed up Way Past My Bed-time, 21. 45/365: Retro-Spect, 22. 46/365: Moon Birthday, 23. 47/365: Lazy Siren, 24. 48/365: Inside time, 25. 49/365: Incognito, 26. 50/365: Building my Immunity, 27. 51/365: Trying to Capture the Days, 28. 52/365: Dust Fighting Bandit

EXTRA EXTRA, READ ALL ABOUT IT: KARMA BUTTON IS STILL ALIVE AND READY TO RUMBLE!!

Photo-project: UPDATE

One of the only things in my creative life I have quasi-kept up with is the 365 project. When I give myself the time, this project makes me look at myself in so many different ways, but even greater is that it has me delve into the life I lead and how to mark the day in some symbolic way through a single photograph of myself. I chose this for less than narcissistic reasons. I thought it was a good idea to give myself boundaries so that I wouldn't become overwhelmed or think too deeply into taking photos so that I could really learn. Yet, this project has made my mind whirl around so many ideas and realizations. The project makes me look at time differently, shows me patterns about myself and daily life, gives me markers to document life, and forces me to become more disciplined by giving myself a project merely for the sake of devoting time to creativity and expression with the same vigor and intention that most people devote to exercising their bodies. I am gathering so much inspiration and in a way, I can't wait to burst with a lot of it!

It has been such a long time since my last post that I am almost embarrassed, but mostly sad. There has been a lot going on inside of my busy noggin and I was so nervous because this is my "200th Post" (supposedly) and really, I wanted to celebrate in some way. However, the way my mind works, I pondered this concept for a long time and well, generally avoided blogging until my perfect posts were ready....which is really just silly. Who makes up arbitrary days and moments to celebrate and puts so much into them that one doesn't even enjoy the event? We should celebrate every day and not put pressure on oneself to make one day such a big deal (like me)...I was always the biggest fan of the Mad Hatter's employment of the "un-birthday" and enjoy sharing on this blog so much, that I need to stop putting pressure on myself to conform in some way or force myself to be anything but imperfect me. SOOO...hopefully some of my inter-pals are still reading and will stick around for some of my big big plans:

Here is a peak at the future of karma button:

--Celebrating Sustainable Living (Including my own contributions to trying to lead an ultimately more independent life.)

--Upcycling Workshops: I will be adding my own pieces, tutorials from all around the web that I have gathered, and hopefully tidbits I refine for workshops I will be doing in August. Lots and lots to share here!!

--Other Blog Categories: I want to make some appearance changes and work on organizing here. My Menu will show what I focus on here, like my love of art and music and generally sharing awesome stuff I find, so there will be a category purely for Inspiring others and sharing finds, one category devoted to Upcycling <3>

I know this post is long and seriously I hope to reward all of you who have read this far. I am finding it more and more important to DO, and ACT, and SPEAK rather than keeping things in--for whatever reason we find ourselves being "Self-sabotagers". Thank you all for coming along the ride so far. To even reach or connect with one person in any capacity whatsoever is really one of the greatest feelings. I want this blog to be my little platform and I hope to be doing some of the things I love the most-- like giving things away. Sending some of you treasures, sending love, support, and inspiration to others, and always remembering my own imaginary karma-button.

53/365: Trying to Protect from Pain

STAY TUNED

11 Days in the Life of Jenn: Self-Portrait Diary

2009-06-21T14:24:00.005-04:00

12/365: Child Heart

Tuesday June 9th: Despite all of the rain and exhaustion, I had a beautiful day playing pretend with my 3 yr. old nephew. We rowed imaginary boats to Coney Island and the circus, and then fought aliens in pretend spaceships. At one point he looked me in the eye and said, "You know, I like you." Cutie pie.

13/365: Vitamins of the Mind

Wednesday June 10th: After reading about my low blood-pressure fainting spells I became paranoid about losing brain cells for good, so I have been on a mission to consciously feed my brain as much as possible! What would I be without loads of crossword puzzles? Yum!

14/365: Brighten Up Already

Thursday June 11th: I am not going to complain about this bizarro June weather we've been having because it is usually dreadful in New York during the summer...but all I need is a little bit of sun!!! It seems like non-stop rain around here lately...which means less sitting on the porch for me!

15/365: Today is Friday,

It is the Last Teaching Day,

I'm Happy for the Sun

Friday June 12th: My title is a haiku because I got my wish for sun and I am feeling pretty poetic!! The year is closing and later tonight I will go for a nice walk, watch movies, eat amazing food, and crochet my little heart out!! Though I will somehow find that my crochet needles astral travelled somewhere and have not yet resurfaced!

16/365: Lefty's Bane or Silly Scribbler

Saturday June 13th: What a day!! After tons of scribbling, feeding of the craft-habit, and signing yearbooks, the reality of a lefty surfaces!!

Highlights:

Cyndy's justifying of our craft-spending by saying, "Well, some people have cocaine addictions."

The stream of students running up to having me sign their yearbooks, non-stop for a full hour. I nearly cried...this crop of kids will be missed dearly!

17/365: Showing Support

Sunday June 14th: Today was the last day of the awesome local event "Art by the Ferry" so Cristyn and I strolled around, saw some art, I got to socialize and see so many people I adore and don't see often enough, and watch "Captain Ahab and the Sea Crackens" play outside of a "Karl's Klipper". One of those days I love being an islander and love being out looking at life through rosy lenses! Later in the evening we stopped at "The Cup" so I could show some love to some of my students whose bands were playing there. When I entered the place I was floored with the excited greetings I received and was reminded of how often being a teacher is akin to a celebrity at moments. Luckily this press seems to like me!

18/365: "I want to ride my bicycle"

Monday June 15th: Today I bought my darling bicycle!! It is the first one I have owned as an adult and it is gorgeous! Jay came with me to meet Ed, who has local listings of so many cool vintage bikes via craigslist. I had been dreaming about this exact type of bike for so long, and my wishes manifested themselves in the form of a 70's era Sears Spaceliner in a super-awesome blue! (Pictures to come!!) We had a bit of an adventure getting the bike home since it didn't fit in my car as I assumed it would. Luckily Jay masterminded a rigging to tie my bike to the roof of my car and I was joyfully able to bring my new baby home in one piece!! Now, all I need is a day without rain to ride!!!

19/365: Unmistaken Moments

Tuesday June 17th, 2009: One of my favorite aspects of riding the ferry is sitting outside and being windswept and captivated by the beauty of the harbor. What made this day even more special is that Jay and I went to see "Unmistaken Child" at the Film Forum-- which will have to get its own post one day. It was the last showing so we made sure to reserve tickets and each lived that day in anticipation of a sure to be fulfilling movie. In short, we left in inspired silence and I certainly cried many a beautiful tear.

20/365: Moment of Bittersweet

Wednesday June 18th, 2009: Today was my brother Ben's graduation from middle-school at a local Yeshiva. Soon he will be going to live in Baltimore to attend high school and I am swept with so many varying degrees of emotions and apprehensions. I am so proud of the young man he is becoming and deeply wish I can be closer to him...yet there is an unmistakable bond that we have always had. Once the ceremony was over he ran right up to me and gave me a huge hug and I was transported back to the moment he took his very first steps in order to give me an equally beautiful hug when he was a toddler. It is still raining here.

21/365: On the road...

Thursday June 19th, 2009: Tired. Driving my brother home. It is still raining and dreary. Life is changing all around me. I fell in love with fabric tangkas.

22/365: Sunshine and IPhone

Friday June 19th, 2009: Finally some sun!! Granted we have had moments of rain throughout the day, I will take a second of sun with beaming appreciation!! Today I have joined the ranks of the technologically elite and received my first iphone. When I went into the Apple Store I was greeted with hugs from my friend Andrea and Shari...so awesome, there is so much love in that store!! In the back of my mind "The Jeffersons" theme song has been rotating and naturally, I am happy!!!

23/365: First IPhone Self-Portrait

Saturday June 20, 2009: Okay, so we are on yet another day of miserable rain which makes me so groggy and spacey...but there is my darling iphone to consume a lot of my attention. I love the snapfilter application because I get to edit photos on the phone!! If anyone has any pointers, send them this way!!

Now, it is Sunday, one of my first days spending a considerable amount of time at home all week. The annoying cat is sleeping at my side, I am trying to regain focus but find it hard with yet another day of gray skies. Much love to all! Thank you for dealing with my self-reflection project!!

MY DAD= A SOUL MATE

2009-06-21T13:26:00.001-04:00

I have a lot of catching up to do, with myself mostly...but because I have such a special relationship with my father, I decided to write a rather personal post in homage to the fact that my father is still here in this physical world with me. My older siblings lost their father at a very young age, before I was born even. The three of them lived through such a difficult childhood and literally watched their father get killed. Even though this wasn't ever much a of a topic of conversation in my household, it was something I kept deeply inside and a fact of life that made me work extra hard at maintaining a level of closeness with my own father, despite our own volatile path.

Lance Jay Hermus: My Adorable Father!

I have considered myself extremely lucky to have been able to get through some terribly hard and dark times with my dad and have also had the luxury to tell him how much I love and appreciate him-- through it all. My siblings never had that opportunity, and despite everything that has ever happened in my past (like leaving his home at 14, many months throughout my formative years of not even speaking, and even having a blow out that resulted in my being banned from his home for almost a year when I was 17) I can honestly say that I cherish every moment of having my father. He is so much of my own identity, and raised my brother and I for many years without much help.

AN HOMAGE TO MY DADDY

My father is a man of dreams and ideas.

He fostered my love of art, culture, learning, music, and experience.

He brought me to my first play (Les Miserables when I was 12) and continued to keep us cultured despite not having much money.

He reveled in the fact that I was born middle-aged and would have philosophical conversations with me when I was as young as 6.

He would put on Simon and Garfunkel and we would dance around our living room.

He brought us on road trips up and down the east coast of the US and Canada-- where we discovered, not only beauty, but a deep connection to exploration, finding art museums and thrift shops, and discovering the hidden gems of every little town we could find.

He would work countless amount of hours putting together trip itineraries and mixed-tapes for our adventures.

Every weekend for at least four years we went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art where he worked as part of a children's art class-- and I learned art history, discovered my love of drawing on a heightened level, got an inside look at the world of art, explored hidden corridors of this world-famous museum as if it were my own personal playground, and understood how G-d was everywhere since those weekly visits were like church to me. Those years are still such a huge part of my past that fills me with pride and appreciation of the unique upbringing I had.

After the Met we often had some New York City fun and then went to our weekend retreat, the Twin Towers. My father worked overnights in the south building (the one that had the antennae) and because he was primarily a single dad for so long, we would hide out and sleep there every Friday night. We drank the best hot chocolate and experienced our city from one of the highest possible points. I would stand in those ominous windows and look down at the world below me...it was here that I became deeply in touch with the spiritual path I continued on from such a young age.

My dad is still one of the people I confide in the most. There is no taboo topic, no situation I ever feel uncomfortable approaching. He is in his words, "my support network" and for years I never thought I would feel so deeply connected this way.

My father and I never spoke to each other like a typical father-daughter. We debate art, politics, religion--you name it. We shed tears over a beautiful music score. We listen deeply to the inner paths we followed to reach the present moment. We laugh over silly puns, made-up songs, and many other Hermus-isms that connect us with our ancestral sense of ridiculous humor. We are honest to a fault at times....but at this point in my life... I wouldn't have it any other way.

I look on my father as a soul mate. This awareness came to me at around the age of 8 or 9. I always knew our connection was one beyond this realm. I always felt I knew my father before he was my father. In ways, I have watched him grow as he has watched me grow. I can look upon my father and tell him I am proud of him without feeling condescending.

My dad is my cheerleader. He is one of my best friends. He is one of my deepest inspirations because he is a man who feels deeply, thinks deeply, and always reflects on the world around him. He taught me to be independent, to be true to myself, to always grow and reflect, to strive for my dreams relentlessly. He taught me discernment and how to get over heartache. He was honest with me, even when it hurt me. I know my father will never say something because I want to hear it. He sees me for who I am...not just as his daughter, but as a person and a soul. And he has endless faith in me that I can sense no matter where we are.

Our unique relationship is worthy of an entire volume of stories and reflections. As I even write this I am crying because of the overwhelming sense of gratitude and appreciation I have for my life and family. My experiences have been far from ordinary or easy, but they have been beautiful nonetheless.

So, to all of you out there, I hope for a moment you can see the man behind your father and appreciate him as a conduit of your life.

And for my dad, I love you and wish I could find even deeper ways to express my endless appreciation for the life you have given me and lived alongside me.

CHECK ME OUT ON THE SCRIBBLE PROJECT BLOG!!

2009-06-14T13:57:00.001-04:00

I am featured as the Sunday Scribbler over at The Scribble Project blog !

Thank you so much Oppy !! You super rock!!

THOREAU LOVE

2009-06-14T11:44:00.000-04:00

Thought: I really should completely submit to fate and Henry David Thoreau from now on.

Side note: This is not my originally planned post for the day, but one of those poignant moments of clarity I decided to share.

Picture taken while camping in Sept. '08

Message: Throughout my short life I try to listen to life's rhythms and allow myself to grow at my pace, while always remaining conscious of what is ahead. Today, while checking my mail, I decided to click on my Daily Inspiration quote(though I generally neglect this) when I saw it was one by H.D. Thoreau because the truth is, Thoreau has been with me and guided me for many years. One can see his influence in my teenage poetry and art, my college days' writings and creations, even during my graduation speech I made sure to start and end with Thoreau. Why Thoreau you may ask? Well, I will tell you a story:

Story: When I was about 12 I discovered Walt Whitman and Thoreau. I really don't know how I came to possess their works at such an age, but I do remember 'getting it' even then. I would eat up every one of their words like succulent treats, slowly digesting and embracing the sensations. I clearly remember the feeling of connectedness I had and how I felt understood-- even though I was a tweenage girl alive nearly a century after these men, somewhere in my consciousness I saw how one can tap into a source of literature or expression and know you see the world that way too-- and for some reason that is such a satisfying feeling to know you are not alone. I guess that is such an important realization to have as a kid going through changes and not feeling like he/she is understood. I found that fortification through reading, and often dreamed of my whole life as a proverbial "Walden"-- even though when I was young I thought that to find peace I needed to escape, my life lesson has been to "be here now" at all times!
And in doing that it is important to remain receptive to inspiration and messages everywhere around you. I see it as God's way of letting you know you are doing alright, like little pats on the shoulder assuring you that you are on the right path....or at least treading on it honestly.

Picture taken while camping in Sept. '08

The Mantric Message:

"We must walk consciously only part way toward our goal and then leap in the dark to our success."

– Henry David Thoreau

The Reason: Every day the gears inside are turning and I know I am preparing for so much more--but I am patient, because every masterpiece has a long time of thought put into it and experience behind it. In the words of Michelangelo, "Genius is eternal patience".