Finding Your Voice

Living alone a lot of my voice is here as I write a blog. Alot of what was discussed at the Workshop: The Art of New Creation was on our inner voice We had many excercises One was to find your inner child Another was to talk to youself as it was God was guiding you. We talked about the winding river of life. And how we adjust to the bends in the river. I am realizing a lot more listening to the voices of others are so important in this part of my journey. Life is not a perfect straight line. It really sucks sometimes. This is the empath in me. It distracts me from my own problems. I have been paying attention to music for a long time I feel it is my best mood booster. It is not just the words but, the rythym that can lift me up. Sometimes, I listen to music to calm me down. So, music is powerful. One story I can't get of my head is Jesse Malin. He is a musician and I have heard him as a DJ on Underground Garage. His life right now isn't a bend in a river. It is a big boulder stopping the river from flowing. He suffered a spinal stroke, and is paralized from the waste down. I heard this song he wrote, and I thought it might be about the voices he hears as the "them". He does a lot of charity work, so I am sure he has an army of people who can support him during this difficult time. My hope is he can take his own advice, and get through each day gracefully. Quote of the Day: The Voice of Grace Elizabeth Gilbert https://www.elizabethgilbert.com/the-voice-of-grace-dear-ones-heres-the-thing-about-our-heads-they-are-som/ Song of the day: Jesse Malin Don't Let Them Get You Down https://youtu.be/TW2JGi_k14w

Let’s Take Time

Every time I look out this window, I notice something different. Not, just because of the change of seasons But, because I am still growing and learning I think we are a lot like flowers. We have years we bloom, and years we are dormant. Most of the time it is for reasons out of our control. Rob Bell during the workshop with Elizabeth Gilbert brought up the subject of time. He noted sayings about time. As if they are a crime or something violent if we take our time. Sayings like: carve out some time, stealing time, or the best one is killing time. This last job I had was the most time off in a year, and it even had initials: MTO Managed time off. It took me a year to figure out I could only have one weekend off a month. And, any vacation could only include one weekend. As I get older I realize most celebrations take place on weekends. I am just too old for having permission or choosing what I can celebrate. In the picture above I found this in a book I revisited. And, it really has changed the way I am thinking. That will be the topic of my next post. I will also be washing the window screen inside and out. Not out of guilt. No, because every chore I do feels so much better, now. I am not stressing or rushing to get things done. It's all on my time, now. Also, he talked about framing our thoughts. And, that has helped me with my writing. It helps me focus, as if I am painting a thought. Song of the day: Time is on my Side The Rolling Stones Quote of the day: The day is ending. It's time for something that was beautiful to turn into something else that is beautiful. Now, Let go.” — Elizabeth Gilbert.

Just Relax

I have been taking a lot of pictures of archways lately. I think with each one I pass through it is showing I am open to learning new things. The archways make me feel like they are welcoming me into a new path of my life My favorite is the archway at my daughter's house. The arch way in this picture was from Omega Institute. My biggest take away from this workshop was to learn how to relax. Sounds silly, but I am having a hard time with it. Elizabeth Gilbert actually wants to start a Relax Revolution and I am in. She wants us to not feel we are lazy by relaxing. She shared some of her meditation practices, and I found them really helpful. Especially, one using counting and all five senses. So, I hope you find some time to just relax today AND feel good about it. Quote of the day: To me that the less I fight my fear, the less it fights back. If I can relax, fear relaxes, too. Elizabeth Gilbert Song of the day: Simon and Garfunkel 59th Steet Bridge https://youtu.be/mWBvcJAXwu4

The Art of New Creation

I should be waking up in Kingston, NY this morning. And I should be in a workshop with Rob Bell and Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat Pray Love) I am writing this on my phone because my laptop is slowly dying. I am happy to report I am good with it. When I first saw the workshop posted I was shocked I was able to get in. It was a sold out event of 450 kindred spirits. When I pushed the button and I was in, my heart jumped. Of course it did. It went right to my practical part of my mind thinking of the cost. But, then I saw an application for a scholarship. And, then came the waiting game. And, I got it! I was one of the 20 lucky attendants and was awarded the workshop for free. I waited too long to get a place to stay on campus I checked into a Marriot in Kingston, which was about twenty minutes away. Last night after a ten hour day at Omega Institute I drove back to the Marriot. I was charging my phone because I accidently left the video on (now deleted). I arrived at the Marriot and started checking my email. And I recieved a concerning text That checkout was at noon and they removed my belongings. It was sold out due to a wedding. I went to the front desk only to find out after scrolling through my emails and realized it was me that skrewed up on the reservation! So, here I am at home. Disapponted, but not devastated. Actually, the workshop was abount dealing with disappontment Especially, buried disappontment. It taught me about framing my thoughts. Each day this week I will be sharing my take aways from the event. Song of the day: https://youtu.be/zWpvDddreaA

Just Be Summer 2023

Seeking Serenity

I found it at Serenity Farms. But, it came with controversary. The family is moving to Florida. And, I overheard conversations, and I tried really hard not to listen. I approached the driveway and was impressed by the huge property. It started to pour, and the field was full of people. They continued to pick lavender, and take pictures. I was happy to see tables under a huge tent. I asked if I could watercolor paint. I found a chair that wasn't wet. I was disppointed with the paper I bought, and will have to buy better paper. But, listening to the appreciative people pay for the lavender they picked. I couldn't wait to get out to the field to start picking. I had the field to myself. I took videos and began cutting. Suddenly, realizing how quiet and serene this was. I inhaled with delight and exhaled exhaustion. I listened to the bees, who seemed just as happy. And, whenever I took a video I was able to dance along with a butterfly fluttering through the field. They were extremely generous with the pricing. They were really just happy to have us cut the lavender. For fifteen dollars I was able to purchase eight nice sized bunches. When I left I saw there was a huge sign that said there is a developer building fourteen houses on the property. I can't even think about that replacing a place called Serenity Farms. What I am concentrating on is finding peace and joy. Not, this and not now. It is not even a debate for me to waste my thoughts. I did tell the owner I was blogging about the experience, and I was more curious of why they started it to begin with. And, she kindly answered. They planted the fields and opened it to the public in 2018. They thought it would be a great business experience for their children. And, even with covid, it was great to have the public enjoy, because it was outside. I loved the ending sentence, which went that they squeezed every bit of enjoyment they could out of the fields. I left with those thoughts in mind. I came straight home, and the lavender bunches are hanging to dry for two weeks. This week I plan on visiting two lavender fields in New Jersey. I have a crown making class scheduled to end out the month. So far, the Spring is bringing beautiful weather for a good season. And, I am very happy the summer of 2023 will begin this week. Quote of the Day: God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Song of the Day: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0r4hESt_bgc Let There Peace On Earth International Children's Choir So nice to sing this song again this year at a Mass at St. Catharines to celebrate 1973's class. We sang this song many many times. I truley believe every moment matters.

Lavender Daze

Lavender season has begun. There is just a little pocket of time to see lavender in full bloom each year. I have already visited Mohawk Furnace Farm, PA and Pleasant Valley Lavender in Morganville. As I was driving home from Art on the Porch in Ocean Grove I almost drove right past the new Allaire Lavender Farm. It is a road I drive frequently. But, this was a Saturday, which meant the farm was open to the public for a few hours. I was happy to get a small bouquet to take home. This picture was taken there, and you can see the blooms in the field. Sadly, on the computer you can't inhale the scent of lavender. When I saw the sign up in December, I almost drove off the road. To think we have a lavender field in this area is remarkable. They had really nice things in the store. I especially loved the alpaca shaped soaps. It is also an alpaca farm. There is a great barn to celebrate a special occasion like a shower, anniversary or birthday party. Besides the author events this week, I have been able to read more about my dad's ancestor's history. I am pretty stunned of the revelation of his family coming from France to America before 1680. And, it is the SAME region where I started to consider a writer's residency. This summer is a treat to be able to visit all the lavender fields in the area. And, then to travel to France next summer looks to be an amazing adventure. Yesterday, I also was able to sit in on Jamie Beck who made a beautiful book: "An American in Provence". She has a beautiful instagram page and I have been following her for awhile. Ocean County Library offered the link to the discussion. And, I became immersed in the thought of visiting France for a month. She visited Provence for a year, and ended up living there. She became quite well known during Covid when she started sharing a picture every day on Instagram. She was a professional commercial photographer with a studio in New York City. And, is now living in France as a Fine Art photographer. The way she described life in France, is a lot like I imagined. I am mostly looking forward to disconnecting from the computer, social media on my telephone and giving up television. I say I am looking forward to that, but really all of those things I am addicted to. So, it will be hard. The trade off will be immensely worth it, because most of all I want to know what peace feels like. I am looking forward to being alone with my thoughts and writing it all down. Quote of the Day “I fell in love with Provence and with the insane beauty of Mother Nature that surrounds us and thrives within us,” Jamie Beck Author of An American in Provence Song of the day: Lavender Girl by Caamp

The Path Not Taken

I can feel my new life as a writer has taken hold. I am bursting with energy, to not just walk by a garden. But, to breathe in the sight and scent of each one. It fills my soul, and I can't wait to write about it. I am in two writing classes, now. I signed up for two book signings in Spring Lake this week. These are both really exciting, as they are launch weeks for each of the authors. I also am going to Asbury Park tonight, for "Writing Asbury Park Then and Now" at the Stephen Crane (Red Badge of Courage) house. And, to finish the evening Ian (my son) will be playing with Alix Simone (grandson of Nina Simone) at the Watermark. My calender looked pretty boring in the beginning of the week. So, happy to fill it in with inspiration of authors. The picture above is with Fiona Davis. It was pub day for her new book The Spectacular about a Rockette set in Radio City Music Hall. I will be making sure to see the Christmas show there this year. I absolutely love that building. I have vivid memories of my dad taking us there many times. Mame with Lucille Ball was the most memorable (she mentioned that movie playing and I was there in the Spring of 1974). Fiona graduated from Brick High School, which made her more relatable to me. She, also explained her journey and process. And, was very supportive and excited about the future. She has a two book deal. And, already has visited Egypt for research for her next book. Each book is set in a different building in New York City. And, this one will be set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I am in the planting seeds stage of my jouney. Each step in the direction of a new path. When, I write this blog it also helps me feel, I am not alone on my journey. I feel each one of you who read this, is on this journey with me. As always, thank you for your support and kind words.

Stopping to Smell the Roses

Time is going by swiftly, but I am taking time to do all the things that I love. It is amazing how naturally this still makes me feel guilty. I am noticing my own patterns and making efforts to change my old habits. I have been able to spend a lot of time in my hometown I am finding it grounding, and it is making me realize how much I am growing. The most important thing I have accomplished is getting a good night's sleep. I also can read a book in a week. So, this week I am going to two book signings in my hometown for some more summertime reading. I also am interested in meeting them, and hearing them speak. I still need to schedule a lot each week, to keep me happy. The roses in this picture was taken at The Art on The Porch walk. Such a lovely event which was free and no reservations needed. To see the gardens and the artwork made for an outstanding day. Quote of the day: No rose without a thorn--french proverb Song of the day: Everything is Coming Up Roses Bette Midler Most days,lately, I play this song first thing in the morning My laptop is almost dead. This is the first post done from my phone

Time Keeps On Slipping

Visiting Longwood Gardens at the time I did was quite amazing. It really put things in perspective for me. It was the mostly the roses and the scent in the air. Seeing the arbors of 100 year old roses and realizing I was there at a very perfect time. And,each year there are only so many days to witness this. And, even though I am not working, it is making me realize how short of a window of time I have left. I am not saying this to be morbid. It is just the more time I have to think. It is more time I feel I have to take to witness all the beauty there is to see. I have never felt this way before. I always had a "someday" attitude. And, now I get to treat every day as "someday". I am enjoying every day to the fullest. Even if it is just looking out the window as I am doing the dishes. This week I am still seeing a mother robin guarding her nest in a bush. My hydrangea bushes under my window didn't bloom when I first looked at this place last July. But, each morning the blooms reach higher. They are a beautiful green, just waiting to burst open on the scene. And, best of all to see my grandson last week, and watch him run around and play in the mud was priceless. Looking forward to the next few weeks of lavender season and then the sunflower season. Quote of the day: Sometimes, if you stand on the bottom rail of a bridge and lean over to watch the river slipping slowly away beneath you, you will suddenly know everything there is to be known. A. A. Milne Song of the day: Steve Miller Band Fly Like An Eagle

Walking On Sunshine

My journey to joy has been in the making my whole life. There are decades, where life was just taking me there with not much thought or attention. But, when I had some time to think, I would actually work on a plan. So, here I am one month of not working and collecting social security. I have a two year plan. And, what I am putting my focus and attention on is people who are taking thier land and either conserving it or farming it. This could be a lavender field or a place like Longwood Gardens. There are SO many places to visit in the tri-state area. I hope to also photograph and paint what I am seeing. There is a limited time for the lavender to be in full bloom. A lot will depend on the weather. It is a lot of work to plan out the perfect trips. But, since I can't control the weather, I am going to write out the addresses. If it is far away I will try to visit as many as possible in a day. I may even go in the rain. I have done that before, and find it just as enjoyable. I also am taking 30 second videos and each day two will be shared on instagram and facebook. I am capturing these usually at moments most of my senses are being used. It is very relaxing as it is happening. And, then by sharing them you can take a minute to breathe too! I plan on writing a book of this year. And, next year I plan on going to France to finish it. I will also be comparing the Tri-State area to Provence, France. When in France, I will be visiting where my ancestors on my father's side came from. And, visiting lavender fields. I have a place in mind for my writing residency, and it is very exciting to think about. I also have an amazing opportunity this June, I can't wait to share. Quote of the day: Words want to find chimes with each other, things want to connect. Paul Muldoon Song of the Day: Walking on Sunshine: Katrina and the Waves Longwood Gardens was a feast for the senses. The picture above is of the bell tower. The chimes are set electronically to ring every hour. The song was chosen because the Night Fountain Show theme was "It is Always Sunny at Longwood Garden." This show had an excellent Playlist https://longwoodgardens.org/events-performances/fountains/illuminated-fountain-performances-playlists#sunny I had a playlist back when I had the store, and most of these songs were on it. I put the day on my calender, and the weather was perfect. The sky was blue, the birds were chirping, there were places to sit along the way, I walked 13,000 steps and there was a dining terrace in the middle with a beer garden and live music (irish). Longwood Gardens is World Class. And sounds of water fountains everywhere! The chimes each hour was another favorite sound. I highly recommend it. Parking is free! I did pay a senior rate of $22. When I go back I hope to be getting SNAP ( a senior resource I still have to apply for) but, then the cost will be $2 !!!!