HappyTrees Studio

The Reason I'm a Bartender...for now...

2012-02-09T18:10:00.001-05:00

This is my awesome friend Xaine (Go to her site-NOW, you will be astounded by her talent)- an amazing Fiber Artist, super creative and talented in everyway; and-she's having a bad day today...ie: "I can't make it financially, I'm not good enough, I should just give up now, I'll never make it" etc...

I have these days A LOT. They're scary, debilitating and sometimes brings on such a strong wave of depression, I won't even go into the Studio for days. WHY? What happens in our head that makes us do so well for so long and then in the blink of an eye we are so depressed we decide we'll never do anything with our lives and we may as well quit now. I know that when I have a bad night bar-tending or my bills are due, I start thinking " If I wasn't such a crappy artist I wouldn't have to work at the bar" which continues into," I'll never make money, I'm not a real artist, I should quit now, I don't try hard enough"... which sends me into an even further decline of looking online and comparing my work to others work and getting jealous, and wishing and wanting, and not be as good as...which wastes DAYS. At the time I don't see that, but what I SHOULD be doing is CREATING THROUGH IT ALL!
When I start feeling 'less than'- I need to get off my arse and get paint on my hands, or a pencil to some paper, and work through my pain, and self doubts. I have to force my way through that cloud of funk.

As for comparing myself to others- that should be a NO NO in all artists lives. I'm an orange your an apple- hell, usually i'm a cactus...not comparable- yet I do. Finding inspiration from other artists is awesome- being inspired to the point of jealousy or competition is CRAZY. I'll never make art like you- my soul is like a snowflake, a thumbprint...it's unique to me and even if I painted the same picture it would still not look exactly the same because it would have my art soul all over it.

Yeah, so I'm not self employed yet, and I have to work another job to help out...but that should fuel me into wanting to work harder and prove to myself that I AM AN ARTIST! Sometime, part-time, quiet time, all the time... doesn't matter, I'm an Artist and as an ARTIST I have to MAKE. ART is MAKING AND DOING, not the done...not the product, and the more I make, the more options for others there are out there for some one to fall in love with, and want to purchase. I will forever more try to work through my depression instead of marinating in self loathing!!! That's a promise I'm making to me and you!

My new Girl

2012-02-08T12:56:00.000-05:00

I've been working with a series of girls that all sorta look like her for a bit, and I'm really happy with her. Sometimes they're acrylic, sometimes ink, this time watercolor. Now on to the body!

Casey is having A Giveaway!!

2012-02-07T12:37:00.000-05:00

Go to The Weigland's NOW! She's having an awesome giveaway of Blowfish shoes and She has a beautiful blog...Her art and Heart are amazing and you'll love it as much as I do...I'm sure!

Messy and fun

2012-02-03T13:48:00.001-05:00

This is the painting I've created for Poor Richards Book Shoppe. It's acrylic, ink pencil and crayon on a wood panel. I paint with my hands only and intuitively. A messy practice but SO FUN!

Styles I Adore

2012-01-31T15:58:00.002-05:00

lifted from Rookie

Oh David Bowie- Your sexiness is animalistic to me! I want to be you and do you at the same time!

I promise to post some arty post's this week, I've been a little over bowled with projects this week...

xxsmoochyxx

Styles I Adore

2012-01-30T12:24:00.001-05:00

Everything about this photo makes me yearn for the days of Studio 54-Edie's BOOTS! Those crazy earrings! Andy's sass...I love it all!!!

My word of the year

2012-01-25T13:05:00.001-05:00

Everyone has been choosing a word of the year. A word that will carry them through this year, and help them when they need a little push, or remind them of their goal. I FINALLY chose mine, and it's perfect.

I have struggled with this for a while, not because I didn't have a word, but because I couldn't narrow it down...but I finally realized this year is about
DEVOTION
to my god
to my family
to my husband
to my art
to myself
I will practice
DEVOTION

So I'm obsessed with all things mod...

2012-01-24T17:31:00.001-05:00

Right now...If it's 60's or seventies...I'm down. I've been a fan of the bohemian/hippie look for a long time but the lady like and groovy girl is quickly becoming my style now. Pan collars, big hair and chunky jewelry with lots-o-eyeliner is cool. I found this scarf pic at a Beautiful Mess. Go there and check out her EVERYTHING. She is awesome and the DIY projects are amazing!

My sweet loves...

2012-01-23T21:50:00.001-05:00

Styles I Adore

2012-01-21T09:13:00.002-05:00

Need I say more?!?

When I Grow Up...

2012-01-19T17:15:00.000-05:00

When I grow up I want to be as funny and beautiful and business minded as Lucille Ball- she makes my heart beat faster with hilarity and love!!!!

Paint is flowing through my veins and new paintings are in my dreams. I'd rather be creating than anything else right now...so new beauties will be in the shop soon!

Styles I Adore

2012-01-16T10:49:00.000-05:00

Joanna Newsome

30 Days of SUN!

2012-01-11T18:19:00.003-05:00

So as I've mentioned before, I began my Yoga Teacher Training in March and I'm soooo excited! BUT- I'm terribly out of shape and I only practice maybe 3 days a week and my meditation is like at twice a week. I've lost dedication to my practice. So I decided to start over completely! It takes up to a month to form a habit, so I'm going to do AT LEAST 5 Sun Salutations a day...I know that when I move my body around I'll be so jazzed I won't be able to stop! (If you're not familiar with Yoga or Sun Salutations I have a video link here.)

I'll let you know how my practice is going!

Since I love company so much maybe you too could try out 30 Days of Sun with me! Leave me a comment and I'll check out your blog to keep up with your progress too!

Styles I Adore

2012-01-10T06:02:00.000-05:00

Catherine Deneuve

Get Into YOU!!!

2012-01-09T21:00:00.001-05:00

Styles I Adore

2012-01-09T17:46:00.000-05:00

borrowed from: http://frankie-machine.tumblr.com/post/12087072573

I think Mia had THE BEST style. Everything was cute and dolly and girly and fun. You should have fun with your wardrobe everyday!

I love Art Journaling.

2012-01-06T19:36:00.001-05:00

I love to journal...i love to talk about it, write about it, teach about it, learn about it...everything! Even when I paint big and on canvas I am still journaling...using a little bit of me and my soul in each piece, but allowing the viewer to decide what he sees for himself as well.
I'm teaching a class at Arts on Main on the 12th and 26th of January. It's called Journaling Inward: Adventures in Art Journaling and I'm really excited about it!
The pic above is just a sample of some of the journals I use on a daily basis.

Journaling to me is so soothing, so freeing. I don't have to care about anything other than making me happy. Expressing my self fully for just me. And even if I plan to show others what I'm working on, their judgement doesn't bother me, because it's my soul, on paper! It's a constant work in process!!! It's a visual way of me meditating and figuring me out. It's so MUCH it's hard to emphasize just how amazing it is for me, and my sanity!

Here's a tiny list of some of the amazing journalers out there that I <3
Journal Girl - I'm taking 2 of her classes right now and she is awesome!
Finding beauty in the Broken Places
Dawn Sokol
Daisy yellow
Balzer Designs

Visit their sites, take some classes, or come see me next week for Journaling Inward! I hope to have a PDF of the class by Feb. for purchase!!! Now, Go make something!!!

The GREEN WARDROBE

2012-01-05T13:16:00.001-05:00

I'm on an up-cycling mission this year....I am NOT so bold as to say I won't buy ANYTHING new this year...however, I'm going to try to only recycle my closet and vintage clothing. This will be the year of the GREEN WARDROBE! I'll post all of my up-cycled outfits here too and offer DIY tutorials for ya to help you change up your wardrobe as well!!! Let's make this the most creative year yet!!!

I Believe...

2012-01-02T20:08:00.000-05:00

In me
In my friends and family
In my art

I am...
loving
fun
happy
creative

I will...
be true
be honest
be nice

I have...
everything i need in me

This is the year that I choose me. I promise to believe in me and push me to always do better. 2012 is and will be the year of happiness and great things-and Positive Thinking is the way I'll achieve this goal!

Make positivity your goal too!

Setting my Intentions

2011-12-30T10:58:00.000-05:00

Sorry for being MIA- The holidays +work got me big time...I'm finishing up my 31 days of Giving by donating all that is left to the Kidney Foundation of Gaston County.

BUT NOW!!!

I'm super excited for a brand new year!!!!!

Do you make resolutions? Have trouble with them? I usually do, but I think I've finally figured out the perfect formula.

Think long term, but make it easy enough that you'll finish. You need a goal that you work on a bit at a time through the year.
WRITE THEM DOWN!!! PUT THEM WHERE YOU WILL SEE THEM!!! Nothing gets me going faster than a good ole dose of self guilt, looking at a list and knowing I need to accomplish something will make me follow through. So I'm putting it somewhere I and everyone else in the house will see them.
Create a plan and start TODAY. Don't wait till the first, or tomorrow, or after this pack of cigs...start now. Make a goal and make time to do it.
Gift yourself. You deserve a reward for trying hard and following through.
Track your accomplishments(or failures). This will help you hold yourself accountable.

So here are my goals this year...

GET IN SHAPE- I start my Yoga teacher training in March and I am not ready for that kind of workout. So I have to really stick to my daily practice.

Create something new ever week. 52 works of ART.

GET PUBLISHED- I really want to be published this year, and I'm going to work on that diligently.

I think those are some pretty big goals, and I WILL achieve them. What are your resolutions? I'd like to know! xxsmooch

Day 16 of Giving!

2011-12-16T08:43:00.002-05:00

Feel free to share this any way you want!!!

Days 12, 13, 14, and 15

2011-12-15T16:54:00.000-05:00

whew!
I have been going through EVERYTHING in my house and bagging it up and giving it away. Clothing to the Kidney Foundation, toys to the Salvation Army, and we're boxing up books for our local, and coolest, bookstore- Poor Richards Book Shoppe. So freakin busy- I haven't been able to post. But please know I am staying true to my word and giving daily! That being said, I'm pretty disappointed no one has entered to get a copy of the book I have:( I'm going to extend the giveaway till Sunday- then it's it going to PRB if no one wins it. Leave a comment here or below to be entered to win a copy of Kaleidoscope.

Day 11 of Giving!

2011-12-12T23:12:00.001-05:00

I have another awesome book to giveaway!!! This one has ideas and projects to spark your creativity. Kaleidoscope has some amazing photo's and great ideas throughout! All you have to do to get a chance to win is leave a comment here telling me how your 31 days of giving is going. I'll let Bama pick a name out of the bowl Friday and tell you who the winner is then. Good Luck!

Day 10 of the Giveaway!!!

2011-12-12T13:35:00.000-05:00

Day 9 of GIVING!!!

2011-12-09T13:54:00.002-05:00

I love essential oils. And I love to be encased in a wonderful aroma when I paint, it seems to center me. So I have 3 spray bottles, depending on my mood, that I use every time i paint. And my paintings and journals always smell like me!

Here's my secret!!!

SAGE

ROSEMARY

PATCHOULI

I take a jug of distilled water, and fill my bottles, then I add about 10 drops to each bottle of each oil...anytime I need a little aroma therapy 'pick-me-up' I spray my room or artwork, or even self!

DAY 8 OF GIVING!!

2011-12-09T01:11:00.006-05:00

FRIED "CHICKEN"

I borrowed this Recipe from VegWeb My new favorite recipe place!!! I miss the taste of greasy fried chicken...as gross as that may seem to some of you. This is really good!
From veggiewedgie, 05/19/05

Fried "Chicken"
Ingredients (use vegan versions):
1 pound seitan (use Quick Seitan recipe from this web site)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon pepper
cayenne (optional)
2 cup unbleached flour (use white if you want a traditional feel)
4 tablespoons nutritional yeast (gives color and flavor)
3 tablespoons yellow mustard (or spicy mustard if you dare!)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder optional
1/2 cup water
3 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Directions:
This is junk food of the vegan gods.

Make your seitan according to directions, molding into "strips". When all done and cooled, cut into smaller strips.

Mix together salt, onion, pepper, cayenne, nutritional. yeast, baking powder and garlic powder in a pie plate or wide bowl. In a second bowl, mix water, mustard and 1/3 cup of the flour. Add the rest of the flour to the seasonings bowl.

Heat the oil in a deep fry pan or skillet. Coat a "strip" with the mustard batter and then dip into the flour mixture (crust). Place carefully into hot oil, and fry on both sides until crispy and golden.

Serves: 4

Preparation time: 30 min

DAY 7 of GIVING!!

2011-12-09T01:07:00.000-05:00

Day 6 of GIVING!

2011-12-08T23:38:00.000-05:00

Layers- Intuitive painting is all about layers. No plan no path no end in sight. You HAVE to feel. Today's gift to you is this: FREEDOM It's okay to make a mess, have fun doing it and enjoy the experience. Get out your paints and turn up your music. Feel your way through the art with love and trust in yourself. Give yourself the okay to make a mess and feel good. Art is in the making, once it's made it's just an object. Give yourself the freedom to make art.

Day 5 of GIVING!!!

2011-12-06T00:07:00.002-05:00

I just so happen to have an extra copy of Micheal Demeng's book Dusty Diablos- so I'd like to give it to one of you! Leave a comment below and I'll choose randomly on Wednesday Dec. 7 and post the winner here.

edit-Congratulations! Bama chose TAMS' name out of the bowl!!!

Day 3 and 4 (And why I'm doing this)

2011-12-05T15:29:00.002-05:00

For those of you that don't know, I am the proud mama of 4 kids and I pay the bills by bartending in the evenings, sometimes until 3 or 4 in the morning. Thus- my weekends are insanely hectic. Which is why I didn't post Sat. or Sun. That being said...I was giving!

On Saturday, we gathered all of our winter items that were too small and took them to the Salvation Army homeless shelter downtown. On Sunday, we made a donation to the Gaston Arts Council(who could use plenty more donations, yo) AND got to see The Nutcracker ballet...I took my 5 year old and he LOVED it! I don't have any pictures, but I will post day 5 later today.

The point of doing this is to ensure that I teach my children and remind myself, that Christmas should not be so damn materialistic...My oldest honestly wanted an iPAD2 and an iPHONE "and thats all mom" he already has games, gaming things, a computer, iPOD touch and a cell phone...why on earth would he even think he needed anything else and WHY would he think I would spend 1000 bux on just him this holiday?!? Because of MATERIALISM. Because I haven't done my job keeping them sheltered from commercialism. I allow too much TV and I indulge in too many name brands. I'm a sucker for packaging. The funny thing is, I don't care where my clothing or home items are from. But if my children want something, I've started buckling and buying it for them. I need help. I desperately want to get back to basics and help them see life can be fun without all of the technology, commercials, names, status. Any body out there have any hints or tips?!? They would be greatly appreciated.

Day 2 of Giving

2011-12-02T21:31:00.000-05:00

My amazingly creative best friend Farrah is doing some awesome art projects this winter. She put out a call for any used book or magazines, and so I'm giving her my well read and loved ReadyMade Magazines. I've been collecting them since 2005 and they were my favorites ever. This may not seem like a big GIVE to some of you, but I can assure you I have moved these back and forth across the state and written notes to myself when I loaned them out. I loved these magazines! But I feel like Farrah will now be able to put them to better use. (And maybe I can borrow an article now and then). So maybe y'all can give an object that means something dear to your creative self to another creative soul. Give the Love!

DAY 1 of GIVING!

2011-12-01T22:06:00.002-05:00

I thought with Day 1 we'd give the gift of self love first. A little soul nourishment. So often we forget that WE are the best and truest ever. No need to pretend or try to impress anyone else. Just be true to YOU. So today, I am giving a little reminder as a gift. For you or anyone in your life that needs a little reminder. BE YOURSELF! Everything else will be as easy as pie. Please feel free to print this artwork and hang it anywhere, EVERYWHERE! Post it for all to see, even for those who do not know they need it!

LOVE LOVE LOVE!

Let's further the Gift of Giving LOVE!

31 Days of Giving

2011-11-28T11:47:00.002-05:00

Starting December 1st, I'm going to enjoy the giving of the season. This came to me last night after the 10th toy commercial in a row followed by a chorus of "That's what I want for Christmas!" I've failed my children in this area, they're so hungry for materialistic goods, and things being advertised to them and they've lost their sense of what it truly means. There is a beautiful JOY in the giving of an item to someone else. So in order to remind my family and myself of the TRUE meaning of the season. I will give something away everyday. And I'll post about it here. It may be a tutorial, a recipe, a book to a child, something of mine that will bring JOY to someone else. And I'd like to invite you to do the same! Leave a comment below and I will add you to a blogroll at the top!!!! Let's get back to GIVING...

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2011-11-24T19:52:00.000-05:00

We are so happy and full I can't say anything more! HAPPY THANKSGIVING! Hope all is well in your homes!

Dear Sweet Procrastination

2011-11-20T14:50:00.000-05:00

Dear Procrastination,

I want to break up with you. You keep me from producing anything at all. I don't want to be held down by your lazy impulses and love of bad TV...you are taking up too much of my time and not allowing me to be my true creative self, and it is for that reason...we are through. Do not try to contact me in any way, and if you still have a hand holding back on my muse...LET GO! I need her here as well.

Ana

Protection in the West

2011-11-17T15:50:00.001-05:00

WIP Pitt Pin on Mixed Media Paper

My journey to the West held this magnificent beast in a cave at the bottom of the ocean, holding all of my fear beneath her like an egg. She protects me from the full brunt of my fear, only allowing a little to escape at a time for me to experience...but i'm learning to teach my protector to release that fear into the ocean to be consumed by the elements.

My First Medicine Wheel

2011-11-14T18:29:00.000-05:00

I cleared out the leaves, and the kids and I gathered 36 stones to create this beautiful medicine wheel. I followed Sun Bears instructions in the book Dancing With the Wheel. After I smudged, cleansed, prayed as I placed my stones and then gave an offering of cornmeal, i sat. And Listened. And FELT. Energy, warmth, peace, love, truth, safety...all of these emotions cocooned me so tightly I didn't want to move or leave. I have found my truth in the South and I am releasing...to become whole. As I read today I found out my stone is 22, the Raven, that's my birth month, and weird, because I've always been afraid of Ravens. Maybe the fear is of becoming true and real. So I will begin to embrace my fear and enjoy my truths and reflect on all.

It's not the FIRE it's the Burn

2011-11-12T13:56:00.000-05:00

I'm journeying in the South this week with Pixie Cambell and my SouLodge Sisters, and I feel like my creative fire is burning brightly. I'm not afraid to get into the fire, burning warm and deep, enjoying the excitement of the Muse. I'm afraid of the judgement that comes after. I create daily, I just hate the idea of someone looking at my soul and turning it down. It's ME, the real me, all of my trueness and realness that you are criticizing and disliking. Non-attachment is one of those things that I try to practice in so many ways and so many times, but something isn't clicking all the way. What do you do to un-attach yourself from your work? I need tips!

Wish Carefully

2011-11-11T13:49:00.001-05:00

The greatest Gypsy Curse is "May you get what you wish for"

I fully believe the energy is high today and will be all day, especially when the moon is full(ish) tonight-

So I'm pleading with you, think carefully on what it is you really want. Take care in what you really think is important to you!

{The reason the date is so unusual is that 11.11.11 is the only double-figure palindromic date, since there is no 22nd month.

And the last time it happened, on November 11 1911, an almost supernatural event saw temperatures drop by more than 60F in a single day.

This was the Great Blue Norther, a cold snap which hit the U.S. causing blizzards and tornadoes as well as record falls in temperature.

In Kansas City, it was as warm as 76F (24C) in the morning - but this had dropped to 11F (-12C) by the end of the day.(Borrowed from Mail Online)}

Goddess Girl Power

2011-11-07T17:35:00.001-05:00

I have been blessed with four beautiful children, two girls and two boys. My girls are ages 2 and 10 and the 2 year old is fierce and dynamic, never afraid to be herself, she hasn't yet learned shame, fear, or pressure, And I hope I can shield her from that knowledge of childhood cruelty forever...or at least until she's confident enough to not care. But my dear sweet 10 year old is so much like my young self it makes my heart ache. She's so good...so willing to please...and so unbelieving of herself it makes me want to cry and yell at the same time.
We have this practice in the family that if you say something negative, about anyone in the family-yourself included- you have to say three positive things to make up for it. I have to force her to say nice things about herself with the threat of time out or no TV...she says she doesn't want to sound too proud.

WHY ON EARTH NOT?!?

Who is going to love her if she doesn't think she deserves it? Who is going to see her full potential, and convince her it's there if she never believes?
I don't want my beautiful girl, who is so GOOD, to waste her childhood believing untruths. I am trying to help her become empowered, become strong, become sure, BECOME. It took me 35 years to START to believe in myself. And I know, looking back, all of the joy I could have found in life had I believed in myself. I can't stand the thought of it taking her that long. My mama bear comes out full force when anything happens with my babes, and it comes out with they are mean to themselves as well.

Last night we rolled the windows down and yelled at the top of our lungs-
I AM GOOD ENOUGH!
I AM BEAUTIFUL.
I AM SMART!!!
I AM WOMAN!!!
She hated it...
And the newest (embarrassing to her)project, is saying to our reflection in the mirror how much we love ourselves, everyday...every time we brush our teeth. I'm sure she thinks I'm a nut case. But it's worth it because (hopefully) one day, she will believe in herself as much as I believe in her.

MORE Naked Arts!

2011-11-07T00:43:00.000-05:00

Wowee wow wow! This is crazy amazing- Poor Richards Book Shoppe filmed our performance last Thursday and Crystal O'Gorman took beautiful photos! She made me look soft and artsy!!! That's what I look like in my head:) I was so nervous about painting in front of people, I almost backed out, when the hubby saved me; and now I want to paint with a group everyday! It was such a positive experience, so energetic and warm and wonderful. It has really given me the confidence I needed to continue to create.

Go here to watch the video!

The Naked Arts

2011-11-04T16:55:00.000-04:00

(UNFINISHED) Intuitive Acrylic and ink on 4X4 1/2in Pine

I got to paint in front of a crowd last night at Poor Richards Book Shoppe with The Menders playing! It was AMAZING! I fed off the energy of the crowd and the vibe of the music...I'm so happy today! Now I'm going to go finish this piece so Poor Richards can auction it off for charity! Win Win Win!

New Journey

2011-11-03T01:49:00.003-04:00

Feminine Magic,
Invisibility, Shape-shifter,
Protector at the Edge of the Unconscious.

According to Ted Andrews, Fox symbolizes the feminine magic of camouflage and shape-shifting. These have to do with the energies of the aura and the Second Great Magical Law. Fox lives in the border places around us: in the instants between evening and night, between nighttime and dawn, in the auric energies around our bodies, and in the spaces between waking consciousness and deep sleep.

Amazing. I did my first Journey tonight, ( I'm in Pixie Campbell's SouLodge) and the very last thing I see, before coming up, is a red fox...telling me to "Be Safe". I've never looked into the fox before, but everything that I've read and found is making sooo much sense. I'm absolutely giddy right now!

I hope you all journey safely into your next endeavor... but make a move! The time is now to begin to be YOU!

Cultivating MY Long Vision

2011-10-31T14:40:00.001-04:00

You'll know I'm serious about changing, and growing and leaping feet first by what I'm about to announce to you...

I will be doing a LIVE INTUITIVE PAINTING Thursday at 8:00pm at Poor Richards Book Shoppe while my husbands band The Menders plays!!! I'm so excited and nervous and happy and scared and wheeeee!

If you are in the area please stop by! If not there will be a video that i'll post a link too later this week!

I'm humbly asking for all of your well wishes and thoughts to be sent this way in the wind!

With Great Love, and Bright Light-
Anastasia

Wild Women

2011-10-29T01:47:00.002-04:00

Become Your Own Muse

2011-10-27T09:35:00.002-04:00

Are you ready?
It's a new day. Let's get started!

Who do you want to be?
Become your own muse.
What did you decide?
What can you do to make it happen?
(You know, you get to the same destination, with ten tiny steps or two big steps...)

I want to create an e-course, so I could jump feet first and do it all this weekend(which would overwhelm the heck outta me) or I could make a baby step. I choose a baby step. So today, I'm going to start on my brainstorming, by putting all of the ideas on paper that have been rollin around in my skull for weeks. Inactive and unused, I think I thought if I wrote it down, it'd be real, and then I'd have to follow through with it. Ha! I was right. The time for self-sabotage is OVER! By just making that first step, I'm telling myself "get off yer booty and make it happen!" That first step is the proof my insecure me needs to realize I'm serious about my life.

What baby step can you take today? What effort can you put into your life to get started?

This is the scariest part. That first move, after you take it, the rest is a breeze! And if you get stuck? ASK FOR HELP!

Yep, it's that easy.

I've been slowly gathering beautifully creative souls around me so when the time came I could use them as a sort of padding, a buffer, from my fears of failing and my insecurities.( I'm a part of the Goddess Circle, and I feel like they would help me in any instance.) Start thinking of who you could surround yourself with. What sort of person do you want near you to make you feel secure enough to make that leap? If you think you don't have anyone, ask me! I'll be there for you, I LOVE to help and if I don't have a solution, I'll find someone that does!

So today, make a move. Get started...draw a picture, collage a chair, put color on a canvas, ANYTHING...but do something. Start today on your new beginning. We'll do it today, together!

Can You Learn To Trust The Dark?

2011-10-26T11:35:00.000-04:00

A new moon is seen as a reawakening and new start as the energy the moon brings works with the energy of the Sun to solve things and harmonize. A new moon signifies the start of a new cycle.

Today marks the new moon, and this is perfect timing for me, as I am on the cusp of all of my new beginnings. Tonight, I plan to light a candle and give myself over to the unknown. Blind faith. I'm going to leap with both feet, eyes wide open and become ME.

I AM an artist.

Now I will begin to act on my dreams. They are no longer dreams, they are REALITY.

My goal of empowering women has already begun, and I will now turn that into a workshop for all to attend. I also believe strongly in Intuitive painting, and feel that I can teach people to believe in themselves, and listen to that inner child that knows she is an artist. I am going to help release that child, that joy, that confidence in self...To love the process of painting, creating and not care about the outcome. There is beauty in color and chaos- you just have to appreciate it.

So, tonight, I ask of you all, think of your intentions, light a candle, dance in the dark. Enjoy yourself and

BEGIN.
BE YOU.
BECOME YOU.

Think of what you want for yourself and decide to make it happen NOW. There's no better time than RIGHT NOW!

2011-10-24T23:15:00.002-04:00

Today I smudged myself, my house and my husband. He has been surrounded by a huge cloud of cynicism and self-doubt lately, and it's driving me bananas. He used to be the most upbeat guy ever. I almost feel guilty for finding my path and healing my Wild Woman. But I do put great intention and prayer into his being as well, hoping that it will lighten his load a little.

I've always wondered though, when I try to put good will into the universe, if they are not ready for it, does it attach itself to them and eat away at the negativity anyway?I hope so, I love my friends and family, but I love me more. And I cannot let anyone bring me down, I've fought too hard to find my path, and I'm too happy to sacrifice it for pessimistic attitude.

I want to teach others to find their Joy, their Bliss. I want to teach others to BECOME themselves. I can't express fully how happy I've become by clearing my soul of negativity and actually putting in the work to be the best me. And I work on me every single day. I start out with my stream of conscious writing, and then I Art Journal. I also try to meditate and practice yoga daily. If I have time, I paint or sew a new creation.

You have to try to make time for yourself everyday, and I do this in little spurts. I grab 15 minutes here or 20 minutes there for myself, it doesn't sound like much, but it adds up! And when every one goes to bed, I really get to work!

Tomorrow- when you wake up, take ten minutes to write, just empty your mind onto paper for ten full minutes. Julia Cameron calls this Morning Pages, I call it, emptying the trash. It keeps garbage from rattling around in my head all day. Then at some point in the day stretch for a few minutes, you don't have to do yoga, just stretch. Your body will love it. Then, find some time to be STILL. Don't move for a few minutes. Let your mind wander, but not on business or home, on you. Listen to you, where are you sore? Where are you tired? Where are you sad? Breathe into that part of you. Inhale deeply and visualize your clean gust of air going into your achy ow-ey spot and forcing the "bad" out. (I do this with my son when he gets angry!) Push the bad out completely, even if it takes a few breaths. When you are finished cleaning out your insides,your outsides should feel a little lighter, and more content. If you continue to do this daily for a week, you'll really see a difference in yourself-I Promise!!

xxsmoochesxx

Going Native...

2011-10-21T12:03:00.000-04:00

I've always known that my great grandmother was a Cherokee Indian, and she lived on a reservation until my Grandfather came from Ireland and they fell in love- and she, of course, was disowned. I never, however, embraced my healing side until the past 10 years. It started with Reiki, and I remember the first time I felt the heat, the energy, flow through my hands and into my husband. So strong it almost had an aura. I began to 'heal' everyone in the house. Then, I took a few classes in Tarot. Not the witchy, spooky, party favor kind, but the real, intuitive, divination, kind. And I loved it. I've always been interested in herbal healing, but never quite sat down and learned correctly. So now, i'm studying at home, knowing that a homeopath will cross my path eventually, when the time is right. And I begin my yoga teaching in the spring. I'm on my way to being a healer. I know that I will be learning for the rest of my life. But that's the adventure! I want to absorb as much knowledge as I can, forever. And I want to teach as well as heal. I want to teach people, all people, to accept themselves, and welcome their real spirit, embrace it! I fought who I was for so long, and tried to force my self into this 'tough girl' mold. Never quite feeling right. That's because (I now realize) I was NOT being me. I'm not mean, cold and callous. I don't want to be. I want to be good, light, helpful, and loving. And I want to share that with everyone I come across. Through art, and healing, and love. That's why art journaling and intuitive painting mean so much to me, they help me learn a little bit more about myself, everyday. And I like who I'm allowing myself to be! And if you allow, you'll love yourself, too.

Coffee and Cigarettes

2011-10-20T16:50:00.000-04:00

My favorite Vice

I'm on the wagon...no big deal, no drinking, no whiskey, no beer, no wine. I can do it. I actually feel better and I'm sleeping better! My dreams are fresher, cleaner, more vivid...so are my thoughts. But smoky treats, ahhhh, they are so hard to put down. I love to smoke, I love the way it feels, it gives me something to do in my down time while my paint is drying...I stare off into the street lamps and let the smoke stream out of the corners of my mouth while I imagine and plan my next idea, big move, thing! I feel romantic and nostalgic, and so super old Hollywood cool when I smoke. And do you know what compliments my late night pot of coffee perfectly? Cigarettes. I want to quit. I want to not mourn the poison I'm filling my body with. But I do. I begin yoga teacher training in the spring, and even though I'm mentally and physically prepared for the adventure...my breath is not ready. It's not there. I get winded when I take a flight of stairs too quickly, and I exercise daily. I have to quit smoking...how can I teach Pranayama,when I can't even get through a whole breath?!? So my goal, before spring...is to quit, completely. I've had one ciggy in 5 days...but the late night coffee and acrylic seemed doomed without it. But NO MORE! I will fight the urge. wish me luck!

This is where I belong...

2011-10-19T11:04:00.000-04:00

My Inspiration

I want to go to SouLodge!!!

2011-10-17T22:47:00.000-04:00

Pixie Campbell of the Pink Coyote blog and Etsy shop, is having a 23hr contest on her blog- she's giving away 2(!!!) spots for SouLodge and I WANT TO ATTEND!!! Check out her blog and maybe you can go too!!! Let's get into our souls and do journey work together, how awesome would that be?!? Go check out her blog, NOW! xxsmoochxx

Journaling Inward Workshop : Success!

2011-10-17T18:02:00.000-04:00

Inspiring Creative Goddesses

2011-10-11T12:17:00.000-04:00

In my search for me, I tend to gravitate towards like minded ladies. These are the blogs I read constantly for inspiration...they feed my strength and want for my BECOMING ME.

Connie at Dirty Footprints Studio

Pixie Campbell

Goddess Leonie

Rachel Awes

Amanda Soule

Joana Carvalho

Flora Bowley

My fire...My Purpose

2011-10-10T11:26:00.000-04:00

My fire burns bright within me. It's my soul, my ME. And it's taken 36 years to find it. Like an archaeological dig, I've had to unearth it and re-ignite what was put out so many years ago.This amazing journey that I'm on...this self-realization journey...is not the easiest thing to do. It is one of the most amazing things I've ever done, and-the scariest, hardest, gut-wrenchingest. And once I come fully into me, I want to help others BECOME. I never knew how lost I was and how little I knew of myself. And I never realized that I just took things at face value and allowed myself to be herded around. Becoming me, anchoring my soul into my body and accepting me is the greatest thing I could ever do. It makes me realize how good things are and can be, and how I can help make things better for others. It's shown me my purpose. Meditate, write, listen to you. Find you and own it. Love yourself, it's okay, really! I love ME and I will teach you to love YOU.

Curried Butternut Squash Soup

2011-10-08T11:43:00.000-04:00

2 butternut Squash
2 cans of chickpeas
1 can of Coconut Milk
2 tbs. minced garlic
1/2 white onion minced
1tbs garlic salt
1tbs lemon pepper
1lime
3 tbs curry powder
2 qts Chicken Stock
1tsp white pepper

, cut squash in half and roasted for about an hour.
saute minced garlic, and white onion in olive oil in stock pot
scoop and add squash (peel-less) to the saute mixture
add, 2 can of chick peas, 2 qt of chicken stock, 3tbs of curry powder, garlic salt, white pepper, and lemon pepper
bring to a boil. Simmer for about an hour
for the last 30min turn to lo/med and add a can of coconut milk
season to taste
(I microplaned lime zest and then added lime juice to mine, as well as sriracha)

Dread bands

2011-10-05T18:29:00.001-04:00

I dyed all of this roving at home in my crock pot using food coloring and white vinegar, Then after it dried, I spun it all using my Kromski wheel(which I love and never talk about). Then I crocheted it into dread bands using a single crochet stitch or a half triple stitch and a size k needle. I didn't use a pattern, just freeformed the whole thing, but they are super comfortable and cute! If you like them they are for sell in my HappyTrees Etsy shop

Journaling Inward Workshop

2011-10-02T11:33:00.004-04:00

I'm so happy to announce my first workshop in the Journaling Inward Series!!!

Oct. 13th 6:00 pm at The Bottle Shoppe, 174 W. Main St. Gastonia NC

This Art Journaling Workshop is the first HappyTrees Studio workshop in the Journaling Inward series. We will take a mixed media artistic look at who we are and how we know ourselves, through drawing, painting, journaling, photography and poetry.

Cost: $15
All supplies are included, Please bring you're own journal or sketchbook to take notes and sketches in. And, bring any personal ephemera you'd like to include.

Please RSVP!- this workshop will be kept smalll so that we can all have personal and reflective time. If you have any further questions please email me at happysappytrees@gmail.com

Anastasia
HappyTrees Studio

Sorry, but for now, this is offered as a Local event only...I'm working on the Online version now!

Nature is...

2011-09-30T13:08:00.001-04:00

So inspiring! The intricacy of the mushroom, all of the gorgeous details...amazing. From printmaking to painting, these are super inspiring to me!

Gypsy Stars

2011-09-29T01:27:00.000-04:00

We're getting ready for halloween this year and our theme is Gypsy Halloween...decorations are going up everyday!

Do You Love Yourself???

2011-09-27T11:46:00.001-04:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of myself!!

My entire life i have always worried that other people would think I was vain and not pretty enough to be vain. So I never let myself look in reflective surfaces if others could see me and I never tried to be the 'pretty' girl. I was 'buddy' girl. I always felt like the ugly ducking, orange hair, big teeth, freckles, round belly...I never let the real me out, nor did I let anyone else in. But now, that's changing. I'm not always happy with what I see in the mirror, but I am pretty pleased with how I feel on the inside, and I believe that is reflecting on the outside. I have, after 36 years, begun to love myself. Really and truly. I'm not cocky, or egotistical, but I know that it's okay for me to be happy, and I accept that I make my own path. I refuse to let anyone else ever hurt me...and I only try to be good...I am human, so of course mistakes are made, a lot....but I try always to make up for them, and make everyone as happy as I am. And i love me...how did I get here?!? Self reflection, meditation, and surrounding myself with an amazing group of spiritual and creative goddesses. And a little, fake it till i make it....It's okay to be happy. It's okay to love yourself. Even if you think no one else does...you do, and should. I want everyone that reads this to take some time today and remind yourselves of at least one thing you love about YOU...No negativity or thinking it's lame. Believe in yourself, if you don't how can anyone else? I believe in me, and I believe in YOU.

Be careful what you wish for...

2011-09-26T02:05:00.000-04:00

ever wish out loud that something would happen and it does, almost immediately, and you realize maybe that's not what you wanted??? So you have to figure out a way to adapt, and FAST. NO, I'm not pregnant, but I will be spending more time at home with the kiddos for a while, which means I can spend more time in the studio too! Door closes, another opens...light at the end of the tunnel...everything happens for a reason...you'll never be given more than you can handle...look on the bright side...I've said them all to myself- all day. I just want to say out loud-

UNIVERSE, spirits that be, I'm depending on you to help me. And I know you will. I have FAITH

(but i'll be way more careful of what I ask for from now on...)

xxanastasia

the fork in the road

2011-09-24T15:30:00.000-04:00

I am being (self?family?) forced into this position. I'm a self taught artist and a teacher, with no students. I pay the bills by bartending a couple of nights a week, which takes away from my children and creative time...I'm at the point where: do I jump in with both feet, eyes squinched closed and BE who I am, speak louder and prouder of my capabilities as an artist and creative enlightener, or do I say fuck it, and just doodle around the house? Do I get a REAL job,and quit trying, or do I continue for a few more years with my candle a blaze at both ends and hope someone realizes how great I think I am???

I AM NOT a quitter...I AM an ARTIST...and I WILL make this work...

I just have to figure out how...

Another year (b)Older

2011-09-23T15:26:00.001-04:00

My 36th Birthday is tomorrow and there are so many things I wanted to accomplish before it happened...but they didn't happen...so I am re-writing my birthday achievement/bucket-list and I hope to check each one off before the next year is up.

Before I turn 37 I want to...

Love more
Be Published
Teach a workshop
Receive my Yoga Teacher Training
Lose 35 lbs!
Quit Smoking
Paint a Mural
Offer online classes
Conquer the handstand
Sell 10 Paintings
Meditate EVERY day
Open a co-op
Own a chicken
Inspire someone
Take a figure drawing class
Hug a clown(without sweating or crying)
ween myself from red meat

I'll be adding to and crossing things off my list throughout the next year!

Preparing for Words

2011-09-22T21:40:00.000-04:00

The first of many pre-painted journal pages...for a long time I was trying to do everything all at the same time. I felt like I needed to sketch, draw, paint and write in order to finish a page. Silly! I don't have to follow any rules....there are no rules. Only wants...what do I want to do??? Who cares how others do it? It's so easy for me to forget that the coolest part of being an artist, and a self taught one at that, is that I never have to follow any rules. I never have to go into a box, never have to be structured...

So the next open path in my journey, is helping others figure out the same thing. There are no wrongs, screw ups, mistakes...it's all meant to be for a reason. You intuitively know what needs to be where, even if your mind and eyes are telling you different. The more we listen to our heARTs and souls, the more in tune we are with everything, and art just flows naturally. Will everyone agree? NO. And not everyone will like it, but you can't second guess yourself based on what you think others will like about you. I officially no longer give a hoot about what anyone thinks of my self expression and creativity. It's MINE! My art(and yours too) will speak to some, and some will dislike it...but you have to love it. Once you love it, the rest shouldn't matter, doesn't matter...Make ART!

Apple Festival!!!

2011-09-17T16:51:00.000-04:00

All that- And all the apples you could eat-apple pie, candy/caramel apples, apple ice-cream, apple fritters...it was awesome!!! I'm making apple pies and apple chutney this week!!!

Shakti

2011-09-15T11:27:00.001-04:00

acrylic, prismacolor pencil, micron, gouache, and watercolor on coldpress 140lb watercolor paper 22"X30"

Botanical Goddess

2011-09-13T12:42:00.002-04:00

Botanical Goddess, ink, acrylic, sharpie, pen and pencil.

This is the first in the series and I'm really not as happy with her as I could be but I know they will get better and better, Shakti is next! I like to paint flat and cartooney, whimsical, but I feel like some elements are missing. I'm sure staring at her long enough will make me realize whats missing. Until then, on to the next painting!

In the Studio

2011-09-10T10:47:00.000-04:00

i am me

2011-09-08T02:42:00.000-04:00

I'm okay with being called a hippie, activist, feminist.
I'm alright with the labels that you place upon me...
for what I know to be true in my heart, is that I live with no fear, no hate, no sadness...only want...
want for a community that can and will rise above what so many have told us was wrong...
we have to overcome the labels and embrace the fact that change has to start at home.
it starts here.
Make your town ,your city, your life, your own.
Embrace your strengths and be willing to sacrifice yourself for the betterment of all mankind.
be it in your home, in your town, in your city...
you have the power to make a difference...you make a change.
Create CHANGE!

around the studio

2011-09-06T13:15:00.000-04:00

Quick post! I'm busy painting!

Watercolor with Sunshine

2011-09-04T20:15:00.000-04:00

My best collaborator ever is Ms. Alabama Sunshine...she loves to paint and draw as much as I do. Every time I go in the studio, she sets her easel or table up too. I never really work with watercolors, so to get away from the 'blank page' syndrome , I'm playing in my art journal. It's so much less intimidating, no stress, no one ever has to see it, and if I don't like it, I can cover it up. I really like the luscious colors and the sheer to opaque-ness I can create with them. But I'm still having a pretty hard time getting a fine line, without the bleeding, and muddiness seems to bean issue if I'm not super careful. Any tips would be super helpful!!!

I insist you create-even if it's crap.

2011-09-02T10:40:00.000-04:00

acrylic, sharpie, sequins, watercolor and love...

Quick time art journaling, coffee in hand, is just as therapeutic as my morning pages. It's all about the process, and getting it out of my head and on to the paper...is it my best work? Hell no, do I love it, yes, because it helps me form ideas for future paintings, color and texture pairings. Art journaling does not need to be good or perfect or great, it's the process of getting your hands and heart to synchronize and be able to put things on paper that jumble up your head. Go on...write a grocery list, affirmations, crabby list, anything. Random words, NO words...just photos, it doesn't matter, just CREATE. Get into the habit of a daily session with color, words and imagery so that you keep yourself open to the muse. The artistic highway...so what if you don't like it. NO ONE ever has to see it, it's your journal, your private stomping ground. But I promise, the more you work in a journal, the more confident you will be in your artistic endeavors throughout the day. Process Process Process- not product. Art is doing not showing. Go make something now! Your heART will love you for it!

Minus the Bear

2011-09-01T21:42:00.001-04:00

I'm still working on this one but besides a few minor details, I'm done. This was a crazy trip and started out completely different, the growth and stories it tells through the layers is personally astounding...This may be mine...

Agami Karma

2011-08-31T15:55:00.000-04:00

'Agami Karma' means- Karma yet to come.

There are many plans here at HappyTrees Studio! I'm working on an Art Journaling workshop called "Journaling From the HeART" and will be able to talk more about it soon...there will also be some tutorials going up next week and they will all be FREE! Little gifts of thankfulness from me to you.

I'm finally getting to a place where I find my muse as I'm working but I don't wait for inspiration to strike before I start to work. I'm getting in the habit of working at least an hour a day, to get my creative juices flowing, and keep the well full, and you know what?!? It's working!!! I'm always ready to create as soon as I walk into my studio, and I can't wait to get in here everyday! Practice really does make pretty close to perfect! I hope you will get into the habit of creating every day, be it something wonderful in the kitchen, an amazing craft with your children, or an awesome art project by yourself. Be creative EVERY DAY!!

Happy Birthday!!!

2011-08-30T14:26:00.000-04:00

To the most awesomest red headed sweet boy ever!!! Jon Roland Cash is 5 today!!! Hooray!

Floral-ish doodling

2011-08-27T12:34:00.001-04:00

This makes me happy, random markings on canvas...splashes of color that take shape in ways you could not foresee. Intuitive painting is very special to me, you just put everything down with wild and reckless abandon, painting from your heART not with your brain, not in a box. if you like green and puce together and tigerish is how you feel, do it! Remember when you were in elementary and you could and would just draw because it felt good, paint with colors that were your favorites? Make your self happy just by making something with your hands. That's what I'm trying to reconnect with. And that's what I want to help others reconnect with, your inner child needs to be nourished and loved with creativity and color. Get out your paint brush and show yourself some love!

And suddenly, sadness...

2011-08-24T18:37:00.001-04:00

Its amazing what sadness can do for your creativity...I'm not saying I want to be here in this situation right now, but I am saying I can paint a lot deeper, and write a lot fuller, when I'm going through so much pain...

Listening with my Heart

2011-08-22T01:25:00.001-04:00

My heart needs to be fed- it needs...
family
friends
movement
air
nature
space
LOVE LOVE LOVE

I need to live creatively and lead with my heart, not my mind- work from the heart for a self-judgement free living.

I want to be fearless
Fearless as I go about my day
Fearless as I lie in bed
Fearless with my loved ones
Fearless in my head.

My goal is to become more fearless and heart driven in all that I do and rid my life of all the useless shit that's gumming up my works. All the things that are keeping me from loving and creating freely and fearlessly.

The lasting impression I want to leave with all is that I was nice and true, and I never wavered in my self.

question...

2011-07-24T11:30:00.001-04:00

(I always check my email on my Blackberry, not from home. If a viral email comes through is it possible to get it on my phone?!? Or is it smart to check it this way to keep my computer safe?)

Painting is going well, I'm really digging Klimt right now...his use of textures and patterns are really cool and inspiring.... I'll post pics of my new paintings soon...

Lost In Emotion

2011-07-01T09:57:00.001-04:00

The only thing I can ever be sure of is that I will never have enough hours in my day, and that I am terrified the path I'm on may not be my path. I search my soul so deeply every day that
I'm scared I'm asking myself the same questions too often and I'm programmed with the right answers or that I'm not asking the right questions. OR- maybe I shouldn't question at all and just let the flow just BE. For as long as I can remember I've had to CREATE. Making something every day, something out of nothing, something from materials, something for me. The main question that's perplexing me right now is meaning. Is it functional? What does it mean? Is it just nice to look at or does it create an emotion? I want to create an emotion, and I want functionality...but sometimes all that comes out is shit. Useless bullshit...cute to look at but no purpose. I can't imagine I've been blessed with the ability to create to WANT to create and the only thing I can make is pictures.

Where am i going???

Affirmations

2011-06-30T13:36:00.000-04:00

Best painty day ever...

2011-06-29T15:09:00.000-04:00

Makers Faire!

2011-06-19T22:25:00.000-04:00

I got to go to the Makers Faire yesterday with Christiane from Three Ravens and spin for a bit.

It was supahh cool! We demonstrated spinning, from fiber in the beginning, to yarn and felting. The kids were the most awesome, they were really into it! It's been so long since I've created with fiber, yesterday made me remember why I love it so much... I also chatted up the folks at Spoonflower, if you've never been to their website, check them out! Now, I'm off to spin for a bit-i need more hours in the day...

a day in the mountains...

2011-06-17T14:44:00.000-04:00

We took a day trip to Chimney Rock and regained our footing with nature. I forget all too often how much it means to me to be out in the open surrounded by mountains, huge trees and wildlife. I love it, and I need it. I feels so energized so RENEWED when I visit Mother Nature. My feet have found their way back to the path and my creativity is surging through my very being, and I'm good.

I Need This Now!

2011-06-09T14:30:00.000-04:00

If you feel the need to please me go to Celentano Woodworks they are located in Asheville NC, but have a cutey cuterson Etsy site too! Check out all of they're instruments- they're awesome!

i want this bear...

2011-06-02T15:38:00.000-04:00

My crazy big canvas adventure continues...slowly but surely!

2011-05-27T15:26:00.001-04:00

Print by Shepard Fairey

aaaarrrggghhhh

2011-05-27T14:11:00.000-04:00

Not a lot of things to show yet but tons-o-fun to be had! Summertime is almost here!

This is where i've been!

2011-05-26T09:14:00.000-04:00

Y La Bamba, Neko Case, T-Ball, Prom and Honors Society has kept me busy for the past bit but I'm back and painting more than ever!

stamps!

2011-05-16T00:15:00.001-04:00

(ignore the beer...it's my night off...)

I may be slow on the uptake, but I finally figured out how to create stamps without having to carve linoleum for hours! I got these garden 'kneelers' at Big Lots for two bucks and I already had a wood burning tool with different tips (I think I got it at Micheal's or Hobby Lobby a few years back when I was playing with transfers). I put in the smallest cone tip with a point and just free handed into the foam. Then I carved the rest of the foam I didn't want to show up in the stamp with an Exacto. Next, I put some fluid acrylic onto palette paper and rolled a brayer through it to get it even. I then rolled the brayer across the stamp and printed it on paper! Wah-la! (You could also just press the foam into the paint and then onto the paper.) The cheapest doggone stamps evaaahhh!

Floral maybe...

2011-05-13T15:14:00.000-04:00

This is the beginning of the latest painting...it's mixed media on 4X5 pine board. It's warping a bit and I think maybe I should have gotten something a bit thicker...this ones 1/4in thick.

BTW what happened to my last post?!? I can't find it anywhere and I posted it to twitter and Facebook and it's still showing up there just lost here. Anybody know what could have happened?

My Path

2011-05-12T09:09:00.000-04:00

It's becoming more and more clear.

I know what I want and I've almost figured out how to achieve my goals!

Firstly- Let me say that if were not for the ahhhmazing ladies in my Creative Cluster; The Creative Goddesses of the Peidmont, I would be to afraid to take a step to do anything...evaahhh. They have inspired me in our short time together and made me realize I can be me and that is freakin AWESOME.

Secondly- Goddess Leonie is a star. A for real on this earth Goddess! If you haven't yet, scoot your booties over to her site and scour it. She will help you develop your inner light so bright you'll have to wear shades!

Thirdly- Connie Hozvicka...This lady is a creative GENIUS! She is all about freedom and feeling your muse, painting from the heart. I thought I was the only one who wanted to paint cause it felt good. She is definitely teaching everyone that it's all about the Process not the Product. Her classes are amaahhhzing and her blog is inspiring!! She has made me see that I can teach and help.

And that's where I want to go! I want to paint, for me, for enjoyment, for fun. And I want to teach people creativity comes from the heART not the brain, not a photocopy of an image you've seen. Create from that land of child like whimsy that resides in your soul. Do it because it feels good, not because you want the label of an artist or you don't like working 9 to 5. If you make something, make it because you love it, you feel it....everything will start to fall into place. You have to trust your inner artist, your soul. Do what you LOVE! I want everyone to know how creative they can be in every way, every day. It's not about painting the perfect picture or drawing something that looks like a photograph, it's about creating from the heART and having a great time doing it. Laughing and giggling and FEELING!

Tunnel Vision

2011-05-10T13:47:00.000-04:00

But I can see the light at the end...

Being OK with me...

2011-05-06T13:16:00.000-04:00

I'm working through chapter 4 in "The Artist Way" and it's making me come to terms with me. The great and terrifying search, that one question I hope I'm not the only person asking....

Who the hell am I?!?

What do I like? Love? Want?

What am I really all about?

Some days I can't even figure out what my real goal is....

but then I chill, I do my poses, I meditate, and I work on those damn morning pages...and I realize...sometimes I'm so busy asking myself who I am that I don't shut up enough to realize that my voice, my soul is screaming, bellowing in the background "Hey!!! I'm here!!! Listen dumb ass!!"

I'm me, forgetful, 35, mother of four, wife, friend, lover, nag, artist. If I'd just be and quit worrying so much about the act of being, just live for this moment and not the next, then I'd know what and who and where I'm all about. I don't know, but that's what I'm going to do right now...just BE.

Freedom To Create

2011-05-04T11:36:00.000-04:00

I've been in painting heaven since I got home Monday night! Jesse Reno is one of the greatest storytellers evahhhh! His enthusiasm was extremely contagious and even a little intimidating! Being a loud mouthed storytelling entertaining shnook myself I was quiet and mouse like listening to him. If we had told our stories in the same room we probably would have had everyone bouncing off the walls! My paintings are nowhere near being finished but the techniques he taught are already being infused into my work and I'm making it mine. This guys lessons and "rules" were so on point I can't believe I didn't come up with them!

1. Have fun, if it aint fun, why the hell are you doing it?

2. If you get stuck, create a problem, it gets your brain working to figure out a solution, and when you finish you see the painting as a whole again.

3. If theres too much going on, figure out what you like and cover the rest. Close it off.

I really wish I could take one of his 3 or 5 day classes, there was so much more I could have learned, just not enough time. If you get the chance, go by his website and look at his schedule. If you can take a workshop DO IT! You will learn so much and it will open you up creatively. It was exactly the way I been taking my intuitive art and it gave me that boost of energy that I needed!

Hell's Yeah!!!

2011-04-30T18:53:00.000-04:00

Photo ganked from Allen Designs blog!

My sister and I are off to Hampton VA tomorrow to take a class with the freaking awesomest artist! Jesse Reno is a self taught painter who works mostly with acrylics and his hands. Check out his blog!!! Buy his work!!! Be inspired!! This will be the first 'real' art class i've ever taken....and it still feels unreal! I'll be back Tuesday with tons of photos!

Pulchritude

2011-04-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.”

Slooooowww Progress

2011-04-28T11:10:00.000-04:00

Inspired by my Creative Goddesses!

My Cheerleader

2011-04-27T10:39:00.000-04:00

If it were not for this most awesome of all women, I wouldn't be able to jump feet first. My mom has had my creative back since the beginning and she has helped make anything I want to do possible. She's always there for me helping, encouraging, supporting. This is my best friend and confidant, and I love my Mom!