Spring has sprung!

Take advantage of this burst of Spring!  

Take time to rejuvenate your creative hearts. 

May these beauties from my garden brighten to your day! 

Brighten Your Outlook with an Artistic Outlet

Often times, there is a string of negativity surrounding us and a lot of negative chatter in our minds. I have found that one of the best ways to quell those voices is to do something artistic. How does it work? When you break out your paints, your clay or your sewing project, you are spending quiet, quality time with you. And, as you are in the midst of creating something, your mind becomes fully absorbed in the act -- to the point that all other thoughts fall to the way side. I notice that my focus shifts and I lose track of time, so wrapped up am I in my creative outlet. It almost feels like a dream-state -- and I can't stop thinking about this quote from Van Gogh I saw the other day!

Remember to make time to create. Turn complaints into compliments!

Art in the Heart

Everyone is creative. Create! While some of you might be in the midst of a February chill, Southern California is bouncing in green. We've been blessed with rains for the first time in years. As a result, all I want to do is bring those vibrant greens in the house. 

There's nothing like a beautiful bouquet to inspire and brighten one's heart! For this bouquet, I've used a few sprigs of rosemary, some geranium leaves and some small purple flowers that bloom in the garden, dressed with a bow.   Very simple, yes, but brimming with vitality.

Those lush greens inspired me to sketch so that I'd have a lasting memory. 

Remember, art is in the heart -- of all of us! 

How to Create Inspirational Space in Your Home or Workplace

“Draw on your creativity” by setting your personal space up to allow for creative flow and inspiration. If you think you are not creative, think again! When you give yourself time for creativity, you discover a whole new way of looking—and thinking.  Creativity boosts critical thinking!

- Have a sketching pad when you sit down to watch TV.

- Have a sewing or a knitting bag nearby.

- Create an “idea lab” with some of your favorite magazines, books, photos or websites.

- Set aside a shelf for keepsakes like shells and stones collected on a beach walk, trinkets from globe-trotting travels, or leaves from an autumn hike. You’ll be amazed at how seeing these things every day will trigger your senses and your memory.

- Take a class to refresh your talents, learn new crafts and enhance your day-to day.

How do you give yourself a creative break? I’d love to hear from you! 

Enjoy the Season!

As we reflect upon this past year, may we welcome in a season of much hope and new beginnings. 

Before the new year arrives, take a moment to enjoy the scenery with friends and family. 

Take a moment to breathe, no matter where you are. Contemplate. Nature is your deepest resource of replenishment and renewal. 

Take time to reflect upon the season's of one's soul and welcome in a new year of hope and unlimited opportunities.

Here's to new beginnings. Let's welcome in 2017 and count each day as a blessing!  

The Hostess Gift and Saying Thank You

When someone opens their home to you and shares their personal side of themselves with you, it is special. Not only is that person inviting you "in," they are giving you their time and full attention.   That's why one should always arrive with a hostess gift as a simple gesture of thanks.

Your gift does not have to be costly or elaborate, but it should be genuine and from the heart.  It should signify "kindness and thanks" in appreciation for sharing a special time together or for a special gathering. 

Technology occupies every aspect of our lives these days but instant gratification of cyber connection and interaction cannot be compared to in-person relationships. They take care and maintenance -- and being thankful is a huge part of why those person-to-person relationships work -- and last.  

Thank you. These two words are so easy to say. They uplift the giver and the receiver's soul.  Use them often.

A handwritten note accompanied with a keepsake gift such as a candle, flowers or a plant, handmade craft, or a delicate food treat are the perfect way to express thank you to a friend, family member or a colleague.  

Give the gift of  "thanks" to those who share a personal time and space for you for it is truly a gifted moment.

Simple Pleasures and the Five Senses

Fall foliage is gorgeous. A treat for your five senses! 
It's a great time to get outside and refill your soul. 
Explore, connect with nature and acknowledge being human. 
Enjoy life's simple pleasures and hit 'refresh' often!