It's September and the time we look at new beginnings. School starts, summer comes to a close but autumn begins, and the last long weekend of summer. It's great to find a way to celebrate the beautiful days of summer even as the summer fades. Over the last few weeks, I and about 150 others, have been sneaking off on Sunday nights for a dance rehearsal. A dance performance that will be a "flash mob" style dance on the TN Aquarium Plaza on Sunday, September 5, 2010. The sun is shining and typically there are lots of folks visiting the plaza. Suddenly, the music starts, one dancer, then two, then a dozen, and just as suddenly there are over 150 people dancing! The surprised looks on observers is wonderful! Smiles, laughter, and spontaneous applause become the spirit of the moment!
Please watch this video and share with others and encourage them to do the same. Our goal is to bring positive attention to Chattanooga, TN and to get one million views as soon as possible! Be a part of this great event by sharing the joy. I was not able to participate as I had to work at the last minute but I still share in the joy everyone must have felt that day.
Dancing has been something I've always enjoyed. While my creativity in dance is limited to being pulled around the dance floor by my partner and dancing cohorts, it doesn't diminish the creativity I feel inside by the power of music and others dancing around me. Look to your creativity for the positive feelings inside when you are doing something creative. It doesn't have to be perfect - just feed your creative soul.
Please watch and share so everyone can share in this wonderful Sunday afternoon!
Welcome to My Gift of Thoughts!This is my gift to you, the gift of receiving and validating your thoughts to walk with you through your journey.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Creative Time
This has been a thoughtful week for me. Some things seemed to be going better and all of sudden, things started falling apart. I am starting to see a relationship between being successful and time being creative. The more time or really the frequency that I take to be creative, makes a huge difference in my life. I have made the connection between how infrequently I have taken time to be creative and the "failings" of my days. Lately getting into my studio has been difficult. It seems that there is always something more pressing that needs my time and attention.
Here is my goal. To take time to be creative. Without creative time, nothing seems to work. This week I will focus on being creative - a way of focusing on myself - and see how this impacts my week.
How is your creative journey? Keep it creative.
Here is my goal. To take time to be creative. Without creative time, nothing seems to work. This week I will focus on being creative - a way of focusing on myself - and see how this impacts my week.
How is your creative journey? Keep it creative.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Journals
A new week and almost a new season is upon us. Have you looked back over this summer season to see what you have accomplished? It may not seem as though you have accomplished very much as you think through the summer in your mind. Did you write down what you do when you do it? I find a daily journal to be the best way to keep track of my life. I have one journal that keeps the daily necessities in order; various appointments, work schedules, calls to be made, etc. Another journal keeps my feelings recorded. This is where I look to see what I am accomplishing on a daily basis.
Here are some things I've accomplished over the last few weeks. Hung the wreath made with flowers from my son's wedding two years ago over my bed. Sanded, primed, and painted the headboard from my grandmother's house and put it up for headboard on my bed. Finished painting the trim in the dining room. Found and purchased the fabric for the drapes in my living room and dining room. There's more but I think you get the idea. On a day to day basis we may not feel that we have accomplished very much and wonder why we are so tired at the end of the day. Having a journal with my accomplishments listed, gives a perspective that would have been lost if I hadn't written it down.
Do you have a journal? Get something that pleases your eye (I get mine at the dollar store) and a pen that feels comfortable in your hand. You will soon find it is very easy to journal your accomplishments every day.
Have a blessed time every day.
Here are some things I've accomplished over the last few weeks. Hung the wreath made with flowers from my son's wedding two years ago over my bed. Sanded, primed, and painted the headboard from my grandmother's house and put it up for headboard on my bed. Finished painting the trim in the dining room. Found and purchased the fabric for the drapes in my living room and dining room. There's more but I think you get the idea. On a day to day basis we may not feel that we have accomplished very much and wonder why we are so tired at the end of the day. Having a journal with my accomplishments listed, gives a perspective that would have been lost if I hadn't written it down.
Do you have a journal? Get something that pleases your eye (I get mine at the dollar store) and a pen that feels comfortable in your hand. You will soon find it is very easy to journal your accomplishments every day.
Have a blessed time every day.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Clearing Out
Sometimes creativity gets the better of us! After spending time clearing out and cleaning out my sewing studio, I'm finding myself drawn to the space more so than before. With the clutter removed and my favorite fabrics, threads, notions, and sewing machines readily available, I find my mind is clearer and I am able to think through creative blocks. I've been able to carry forward my love of creating abstract flowers to be stitched onto abstract leaf type backgrounds. Hopefully, they will be mounted on painted canvases to be displayed and sold. It is inspiring to me to see my work laid out in a clear fashion rather than piled on top of miscellanous "stuff."
How have you cleared the space in your mind for creativity? Do you still have alot of clutter that interfers with the thoughts that bring your spirit to the front?
Spend some time this week clearing out your mind. Write those thoughts down and throw them away. You don't need them any longer. Write down those creative thoughts that now have time to move to the front of your mind. Post them in a prominent spot in your studio, the front of the refridgerator, by your bathroon mirror. Choose several places that you will see every day. This will help keep your creative thoughts to the front of your mind.
Erase the clutter and move into your creative spirit!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Creative Time
The heat appears to have broken! It is still in the 90s but after 100+, this feels wonderful. Have you ever noticed that the times you had your feet held to the fire, when things got to a make it or break it point, that those were the times you reached deep inside yourself and did what you wanted to do? I think we can identify with that feeling.
It is so easy to just go through each day with no real thought or purpose for what the day holds. We may have planners and notebooks to remind us of "things to do" but we still just float through the day. Do you put creative time in your planner? Do you add an hour to read a book or write in your journal? These are the times that feed our soul, the times that lead us to our ultimate happiness.
Start putting creative time in your planner. Dedicate time to doing something that feeds your heart rather than just letting the day go by. I'm sure you will feel happier, brighter, and sleep much better by being creative.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Time for Creativity
How has this impacted my creative life? I haven't been able to get into my studio all week. My brain is totally fried from being on the computer job hunting. Maybe my brain is fried because I haven't been in my studio. A creative outlet is so necessary for our well-being. Being creative releases stress and tension. It allows our mind to rest from concrete thoughts and just "be." That feeling that whatever I do will be right. There are no rules, no expectations, no set of directions that I must follow. It is just my muse - whatever I create is without judgement. Certainly someone else may look at what I have created and feel that it is wrong but that doesn't diminish my creativity. It is just one person's opinion of one piece of art. They do not know where I am coming from and I do not know where they are coming from.
My goal for the week is to be creative everyday - even if it is only for five minutes. I bought a blank journal last week. I think I will make it my Creativity Journal for my studio. A place where I can document my creative endeavors just as I do with my journal where I write my thoughts nearly every day.
What is your creative goal? For the day? For the week? For the month? For the year? For your life? It may seem like a big endeavor that requires lots of planning and expectations. It is your creative goal, it feeds your spirit, it is a piece of who you are. Live your creativity and your being will be better for it.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Friends
This brings a saying to mind, "Friends are flowers in the garden of life."
Isn't that so true? Think of a friend or two. They have been in your life for a long time, holding you up, much like the greenery I have been stitching. Even when I remove the stabilizer, the greenery stays beautiful and creates a new background for the finished piece. The flowers are layers of thread all connected to each other with thousands of stitches. Aren't our friends like that? Just when we feel alone, they are there in the background ready to support us even when we think all support is gone. Friends bring beauty into our lives. They bring us smiles when we least expect it and stick with us through everything. The photos above were taken by Latta Johnson. Latta is a friend who has taken up photography in retirement. Doesn't he have a wonderful eye? He has a wonderful eye for nature and captures it with his camera. I rarely miss an opportunity to let him know how much I appreciate his work.
Today, write a note or send a card to a friend. You don't have to write a long letter, just a message that let's them know that they bring beauty into your life. Today, let the flowers in your life know just how much you appreciate them. Have a wonderfully beautiful day!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Sunshine
It has truly been hot and humid, even for the south over the holiday weekend. I have been struck by the amount of sunshine we are having. Sunrise is early and sunset is the latest it will be all year.
How does this fit with creativity? As an artist who works in fabric and thread, the sun provides the best natural light for determining color and dimension. This has found me challenging decisions I had made on some fabric and thread combinations. True natural light provides a view that doesn't exist except when the sun is at its brightest. It is very striking to me because I have "natural light" bulbs throughout my home. These lights look better, make me feel better, and are more energy efficient. I've been working in my studio pulling new colors together and time will see what they bring as I work with them.
The sunshine has also encouraged me to be outside. Yes, the humidity is terrible, but I've learned that sitting on my porch with my laptop has allowed me to complete those activities that require the computer. Reading on the porch is always an excellent choice.
What decisions are you making about the sunshine? Have you decided to stay in the air conditioning with the blinds closed? Or have you embraced the natural vitamin D of the sun and benefited from the creative spark it can ignite? Can you creative something or write something that the sun is doing for you? Next winter when it is cold and dreary you will welcome the warmth of that piece or the words that you have written.
I wish you sunshine, creativity, and the warmth of being your creative self.
How does this fit with creativity? As an artist who works in fabric and thread, the sun provides the best natural light for determining color and dimension. This has found me challenging decisions I had made on some fabric and thread combinations. True natural light provides a view that doesn't exist except when the sun is at its brightest. It is very striking to me because I have "natural light" bulbs throughout my home. These lights look better, make me feel better, and are more energy efficient. I've been working in my studio pulling new colors together and time will see what they bring as I work with them.
The sunshine has also encouraged me to be outside. Yes, the humidity is terrible, but I've learned that sitting on my porch with my laptop has allowed me to complete those activities that require the computer. Reading on the porch is always an excellent choice.
What decisions are you making about the sunshine? Have you decided to stay in the air conditioning with the blinds closed? Or have you embraced the natural vitamin D of the sun and benefited from the creative spark it can ignite? Can you creative something or write something that the sun is doing for you? Next winter when it is cold and dreary you will welcome the warmth of that piece or the words that you have written.
I wish you sunshine, creativity, and the warmth of being your creative self.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Create a Blank Canvas
The sun has been shining through the longest day of the year along with high humidity. For most of us, that means lots of time indoors to avoid the heat and humidity. Have you used your time creatively?
Have you cleaned out a closet or reorganized a room? You may not think of this as being creative but it is. You were clearing out the "old" and making room for the new. An empty closet or even just an empty shelf is a blank canvas for you. Try looking at this blank canvas and envision one of your goals or dreams. Can't think of one? Go back to what you have written in your journal or created in your vision board and find what attracts you. Define it so it will fit in the space available. Small may be more manageable as you color your blank canvas.
I have been busy creating my own blank canvas. After totally emptying my studio, I carefully considered each piece as I put it back into my studio. Now when I go in to create, only those materials that "speak to me" are in front of me. No, I haven't created mountains of art but my focus is much better. I'm learning what does speak to me and where I want to go.
Use these hot, humid days to create a sanctuary where you can let your art flow freely!
Have you cleaned out a closet or reorganized a room? You may not think of this as being creative but it is. You were clearing out the "old" and making room for the new. An empty closet or even just an empty shelf is a blank canvas for you. Try looking at this blank canvas and envision one of your goals or dreams. Can't think of one? Go back to what you have written in your journal or created in your vision board and find what attracts you. Define it so it will fit in the space available. Small may be more manageable as you color your blank canvas.
I have been busy creating my own blank canvas. After totally emptying my studio, I carefully considered each piece as I put it back into my studio. Now when I go in to create, only those materials that "speak to me" are in front of me. No, I haven't created mountains of art but my focus is much better. I'm learning what does speak to me and where I want to go.
Use these hot, humid days to create a sanctuary where you can let your art flow freely!
Friday, June 11, 2010
Inspiring the Next Generation
Alot has happened in the last 10 days! Lots to write about in my personal journal. My days were very busy then everything seemed to come to a stop and now am spending a few days reflecting on the events.
My daughter married last Saturday, June 5. It was a wonderful day with lots of family and close friends. The wedding was very reflective of them both which made the day so much more meaningful.
I was struck by the number of creative things they chose for their wedding. The location was a family home on the river, cheesecake was the dessert, flowers came from the gardens of friends, handmade invitations, friends who provided the music, and more. For me, I realized the impact of the creative activities I did with her as she grew up. She had spent a lifetime seeing the joy of the creative spirit and the memory encouraged her to create -rather than buy - for her wedding.
Have you ever wondered how your creativity influences others? Have you shared your creativity with another and seen that "lightbulb" moment when they understand the process? Have you been influenced by another's creativity?
How do you feel after reading a book, attending a performance, or viewing art? Does it excite you? Empower you? Lift your spirits?
Next time you see something that draws your eye, take a few minutes to write down that feeling so you can reflect on it as you examine your own creative spirit.
My daughter married last Saturday, June 5. It was a wonderful day with lots of family and close friends. The wedding was very reflective of them both which made the day so much more meaningful.
I was struck by the number of creative things they chose for their wedding. The location was a family home on the river, cheesecake was the dessert, flowers came from the gardens of friends, handmade invitations, friends who provided the music, and more. For me, I realized the impact of the creative activities I did with her as she grew up. She had spent a lifetime seeing the joy of the creative spirit and the memory encouraged her to create -rather than buy - for her wedding.
Have you ever wondered how your creativity influences others? Have you shared your creativity with another and seen that "lightbulb" moment when they understand the process? Have you been influenced by another's creativity?
How do you feel after reading a book, attending a performance, or viewing art? Does it excite you? Empower you? Lift your spirits?
Next time you see something that draws your eye, take a few minutes to write down that feeling so you can reflect on it as you examine your own creative spirit.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Creating Memories
We have spent this past weekend remembering those who sacrificed their time and in some cases, their lives to protect our freedom. It emphasizes the value we place on each other for our way of life. How can you show your gratitude to those who are here and influence you on a regular basis?
This Saturday is my daughter's wedding so we are in "full wedding mode" with final preparations. We have family coming from out of state and will have the opportunity to meet the extended family of my new son-in-law. Lots of pictures and special events have been planned to make this a memorable occasion.
Yesterday was my Dad's 80th birthday - what a blessing to celebrate! I am so blessed to have him here and living just 11 miles away. We took the afternoon away from wedding mode to celebrate with him. It was wonderful to celebrate with him but also gave me pause to reflect on my daughter's life. I am realizing that time is how we create memories.
Are you creating a memory today? Will something happen to you or will you do something that create a memory? Or will today just disappear into a mundane day, just another day on the calendar? Write a note or make a call to someone who is important to you or influenced your life. It will improve your day and create a memory to the recipient.
Enjoy creating memories!
This Saturday is my daughter's wedding so we are in "full wedding mode" with final preparations. We have family coming from out of state and will have the opportunity to meet the extended family of my new son-in-law. Lots of pictures and special events have been planned to make this a memorable occasion.
Yesterday was my Dad's 80th birthday - what a blessing to celebrate! I am so blessed to have him here and living just 11 miles away. We took the afternoon away from wedding mode to celebrate with him. It was wonderful to celebrate with him but also gave me pause to reflect on my daughter's life. I am realizing that time is how we create memories.
Are you creating a memory today? Will something happen to you or will you do something that create a memory? Or will today just disappear into a mundane day, just another day on the calendar? Write a note or make a call to someone who is important to you or influenced your life. It will improve your day and create a memory to the recipient.
Enjoy creating memories!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Week 9 - Ridding Myself of the Past
As part of my creative journey, I realized that sometimes you have to rid yourself of the past so you can move forward. Saturday and today (Sunday was Mother's Day) I took everything out of my sewing studio. My 11' x 11' studio has now taken over my hallway, foyer and kitchen. How did so much stuff fit into that room?!? Now the real challenge begins. What goes back in? What do I keep and where do I keep it? What do I donate? Sell? Throw away? Where does everything go once I put it back in? Do I relocate furniture? What do I really want and need in that space? This is my challenge for the week. It is a bit scary to face all of this but I need to focus on the future.
What is your challenge this week? Are you afraid? Think of the possibilities as you sort through these pieces of your life.
What is your challenge this week? Are you afraid? Think of the possibilities as you sort through these pieces of your life.
Monday, May 3, 2010
A New Chapter
This has been an exciting few weeks - some wonderful, some disappointing - but all point to better things. It is certain that I will lean on my creativity as I move forward.
On the downside, the economy has hit my part time job at Alkahest Artists & Attractions where I have worked for almost 2 years. I will miss my job - and the paycheck -however it was a positive experience and I know it has given me new skills to carry into the future.
On the upside, I went to Lake Barkley, KY for the weekend of April 16 -17 where I had the opportunity to compete on the District 63 level for Toastmasters International. The five of us who were competing had all won on our club, area and division levels so the competition was very challenging. After drawing lots, I was the last speaker so I had plenty of time to hear the competition before I had to give my speech. After the votes were counted, I had won second place! A tremendous honor! I was thrilled to see that my hard work had paid off! The winner was Stephen Cornwell who had won last year and had gone on to compete on the international level last year. Many of my fellow Toastmasters congratulated me and offered wonderful encouragement to continue on my journey as a speaker. A very exciting weekend that truly drew on my creativity.
With the loss of my job, I am now faced with the challenge of seeking new employment and opportunities. I will continue to network and call on my creative skills to move on to the next chapter in my life. This is an opportunity for me to focus on opportunities that I didn't have time for previously and I have already started on that journey.
How are you doing on your creative journey? Are you writing down your creative experiences and goals? I am continuing my journal on my creative experiences and find it brings me great encouragement. I have decided to post my goals where they are more visable to help me keep my mind focused on where I am going. This visualization is very powerful and supports your efforts especially when things don't go exactly as planned.
This week let's both focus on the creativity within us to further our professional and business lives. Please leave your comments so we can share and uplift each other.
On the downside, the economy has hit my part time job at Alkahest Artists & Attractions where I have worked for almost 2 years. I will miss my job - and the paycheck -however it was a positive experience and I know it has given me new skills to carry into the future.
On the upside, I went to Lake Barkley, KY for the weekend of April 16 -17 where I had the opportunity to compete on the District 63 level for Toastmasters International. The five of us who were competing had all won on our club, area and division levels so the competition was very challenging. After drawing lots, I was the last speaker so I had plenty of time to hear the competition before I had to give my speech. After the votes were counted, I had won second place! A tremendous honor! I was thrilled to see that my hard work had paid off! The winner was Stephen Cornwell who had won last year and had gone on to compete on the international level last year. Many of my fellow Toastmasters congratulated me and offered wonderful encouragement to continue on my journey as a speaker. A very exciting weekend that truly drew on my creativity.
With the loss of my job, I am now faced with the challenge of seeking new employment and opportunities. I will continue to network and call on my creative skills to move on to the next chapter in my life. This is an opportunity for me to focus on opportunities that I didn't have time for previously and I have already started on that journey.
How are you doing on your creative journey? Are you writing down your creative experiences and goals? I am continuing my journal on my creative experiences and find it brings me great encouragement. I have decided to post my goals where they are more visable to help me keep my mind focused on where I am going. This visualization is very powerful and supports your efforts especially when things don't go exactly as planned.
This week let's both focus on the creativity within us to further our professional and business lives. Please leave your comments so we can share and uplift each other.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Week 7 Toastmasters
I'm back. Despite my best intentions, I have been occupied with "life" over the last few weeks. This blog's purpose is to focus on your creative thoughts and actions. I have been busy with my creativity! Just three weeks ago, I competed in my Toastmasters club's International Speech Contest and won. This win took me to the area then the division contests, essentially defeating almost 200 speakers! Next weekend, April 16 & 17, I will travel to Lake Barkley, KY to compete in the District 63 contest. Here I will speak against more speakers who have competed and won on the same levels that I have. The winner on the District level will travel to Palm Desert, CA in August and compete for the title of International Speech Champion. Toastmasters is an international organization so there will be speakers from over 14 nations! Right now I am focusing on next weekend and the District competition. My speech is entitled, "Mentors, They Aren't Always Who You Think They Are," a speech about the various mentors in our lives.
I have also been working on my speaking skills in another area. This past week I recorded a session with Joan Hetzler's radio program, The Writers Show, on WAWL. I will include a link with this post so you can listen to it. I had the opportunity to discuss speech writing and Toastmasters during the show. It was very exciting and truly made me feel very alive to be involved in speaking situations. It is interesting to me that despite my love of quilting and the machine arts, it is speaking that makes me feel so alive.
How have you viewed your gifts? Are the gifts you have identified the ones that truly make your heart sing? Are you focusing on what you think is your creativity or are you avoiding the gift that really brings you joy? Over the next week or two, I am going to focus on where my gifts lie and what gifts truly make me feel alive. I challenge you to do the same. Look back at your list of gifts and the list of what brings you joy then look inside yourself to see your heart sing.
If you are reading this blog, please sign up to follow it and feel free to leave a comment.
I have also been working on my speaking skills in another area. This past week I recorded a session with Joan Hetzler's radio program, The Writers Show, on WAWL. I will include a link with this post so you can listen to it. I had the opportunity to discuss speech writing and Toastmasters during the show. It was very exciting and truly made me feel very alive to be involved in speaking situations. It is interesting to me that despite my love of quilting and the machine arts, it is speaking that makes me feel so alive.
How have you viewed your gifts? Are the gifts you have identified the ones that truly make your heart sing? Are you focusing on what you think is your creativity or are you avoiding the gift that really brings you joy? Over the next week or two, I am going to focus on where my gifts lie and what gifts truly make me feel alive. I challenge you to do the same. Look back at your list of gifts and the list of what brings you joy then look inside yourself to see your heart sing.
If you are reading this blog, please sign up to follow it and feel free to leave a comment.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Just wanted to update you on my week. Day one - thought about what I wanted for a backing. One that is one piece? One that would be several lengths of fabric sewn together? Finally decided on just one large piece. Day two - searched online for fabric without success. Day 3 - went to Atlanta and found some fabric! It wasn't on sale but it was 120" wide and that was what I needed to make it one piece.
Some days I accomplished more than others but I am staying focused on my gift of quilt making. Don't get discouraged if you miss a day or even two days, you can always pick up and keep going.
Some days I accomplished more than others but I am staying focused on my gift of quilt making. Don't get discouraged if you miss a day or even two days, you can always pick up and keep going.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Day by Day
"Oh, places you'll go and the places you'll see" Dr. Seuss
How have you done with identifying one gift and doing something with it every day? I did well, every day I spent time working on one quilt that will be raffled off to raise money for a friend who has cancer.
Something became very clear to me while working on this quilt. My gift - talent some would say - of quilting and working with fabric and thread, comes very easily to me and brings me great pleasure. Through the pleasure of quilting, I am able to bring great joy to another person.
Did you notice other's response to your daily gift? Did someone smile because of your gift? How did you feel every day as you did something with your gift? It should lift your mood and add a bright spot to your day.
Here's a thought for this week. Using the gift you have identified or choose another gift, continue to use it every day. This week please write what you did on a calendar, planner or somewhere where you can easily see it. An example for me working on the quilt would be:
Day 1 - Press and cut fabric
Day 2 - Assemble squares into short strips
Day 3 - Assemble short strips into finished lengths
Day 4 - Press all strips. Lay strips on the floor to determine placement in the quilt.
Day 5 - Pin strips together. Sew strips together to create quilt top.
Day 6 - Press the top. Measure, cut, and sew borders onto quilt top.
Day 7 - Shop for quilt backing.
As you can easily see, I didn't finish the quilt in a week, I didn't interact with others except the day I went shopping, but I felt incredibly empowered by using my gift of quilting. I'm looking forward to quilting the finished top and adding the binding over the next week.
This is my gift to myself and to my friend with cancer. Today is Day 1 for your gift, write it down and give yourself a brighter day by recognizing the gift you have.
How have you done with identifying one gift and doing something with it every day? I did well, every day I spent time working on one quilt that will be raffled off to raise money for a friend who has cancer.
Something became very clear to me while working on this quilt. My gift - talent some would say - of quilting and working with fabric and thread, comes very easily to me and brings me great pleasure. Through the pleasure of quilting, I am able to bring great joy to another person.
Did you notice other's response to your daily gift? Did someone smile because of your gift? How did you feel every day as you did something with your gift? It should lift your mood and add a bright spot to your day.
Here's a thought for this week. Using the gift you have identified or choose another gift, continue to use it every day. This week please write what you did on a calendar, planner or somewhere where you can easily see it. An example for me working on the quilt would be:
Day 1 - Press and cut fabric
Day 2 - Assemble squares into short strips
Day 3 - Assemble short strips into finished lengths
Day 4 - Press all strips. Lay strips on the floor to determine placement in the quilt.
Day 5 - Pin strips together. Sew strips together to create quilt top.
Day 6 - Press the top. Measure, cut, and sew borders onto quilt top.
Day 7 - Shop for quilt backing.
As you can easily see, I didn't finish the quilt in a week, I didn't interact with others except the day I went shopping, but I felt incredibly empowered by using my gift of quilting. I'm looking forward to quilting the finished top and adding the binding over the next week.
This is my gift to myself and to my friend with cancer. Today is Day 1 for your gift, write it down and give yourself a brighter day by recognizing the gift you have.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
My Daily Gift
Have you been listing your daily gift? I have identified my gift of sewing, particularly quilting, and my ability to sahre it with others. Over the last couple of days, I have opened a package of batting to let it "breathe" before I put it into the quilt I'm making for a friend. Another gift of my quilting was to iron the entire top of the quilt - a full 99" X 106"! Quite a project on my ironing board! Yesterday I selected and purchased the backing fabric for the quilt and this morning I fused the backing, batting, and quilt top and pin basted it as I prepare to quilt.
How is your list coming? Remember you only have to note 1 task from 1 of your gifts. I certainly haven't done something with all of my gifts, just made a few small notes of what I have done with 1 gift.
If you haven't selected your gift or listed your gift, take a few minutes to do it now. Today is a good day to start!
How is your list coming? Remember you only have to note 1 task from 1 of your gifts. I certainly haven't done something with all of my gifts, just made a few small notes of what I have done with 1 gift.
If you haven't selected your gift or listed your gift, take a few minutes to do it now. Today is a good day to start!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Action Steps
Have you been writing in your journal? Have you found a list of your gifts from last week? I hope so, it is a very encouraging feeling to realize how much you bring to the world.
This week I want you to choose one gift - just one - that you have identified about yourself. The one you choose will give you focus for this activity. Write the numbers 1 through 7 on alternating lines. You need to be able to write a short sentence or two after each number.
Every day for the next 7 days, write a sentence describing how you used your gift that day. It doesn't have to be big and spectacular, it just has to be your gift. Write it down every day. You will be amazed at how simple this is and how wonderful you will feel about yourself each day when you write down your gift.
This week I want you to choose one gift - just one - that you have identified about yourself. The one you choose will give you focus for this activity. Write the numbers 1 through 7 on alternating lines. You need to be able to write a short sentence or two after each number.
Every day for the next 7 days, write a sentence describing how you used your gift that day. It doesn't have to be big and spectacular, it just has to be your gift. Write it down every day. You will be amazed at how simple this is and how wonderful you will feel about yourself each day when you write down your gift.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Identity of Gifts
"The greatest gift you can give yourself, is the gift of yourself." Anonymous
Last week I suggested you identify your gifts. Did you find more than you expected? This week I'd like to look at what makes me- me and what makes you - you. The diversity of each person keeps life interesting, it brings different perspectives to ourselves and to others.
Let's look at what we can identify as the diversity we bring to the community. The best place to start is to identify where you spend your time.
Family - what is your role? Are you the chauffer, the chef, and housekeeper? Are you the one who works long hours and isn't able to contribute very much time to the family? Are you the primary breadwinner or childcare provider? Are you one everyone turns to in crisis and celebration?
Work - what is your role? Certainly it is in your job description but what else do you contribute? Do you lead by quiet example or by leading workshops for other employees? Are you the critical one or the one giving positive praise and feedback? Are you the "face" of your company or do you work quietly in the background?
Community and Neighborhood - do you volunteer at church or in the community? Do you chair a committee or event or are you a dedicated committee member? Are you a friend to your neighbors? Do you know their faces but not their names or do you share a chat while out working in the yard?
Think of other areas where you spend your time and consider what you bring to that area of your life. Write these thoughts in your journal. When you feel unappreciated or that what you are doing is going unnoticed, come back and read what you have written and you will see what a blessing you are to all.
Last week I suggested you identify your gifts. Did you find more than you expected? This week I'd like to look at what makes me- me and what makes you - you. The diversity of each person keeps life interesting, it brings different perspectives to ourselves and to others.
Let's look at what we can identify as the diversity we bring to the community. The best place to start is to identify where you spend your time.
Family - what is your role? Are you the chauffer, the chef, and housekeeper? Are you the one who works long hours and isn't able to contribute very much time to the family? Are you the primary breadwinner or childcare provider? Are you one everyone turns to in crisis and celebration?
Work - what is your role? Certainly it is in your job description but what else do you contribute? Do you lead by quiet example or by leading workshops for other employees? Are you the critical one or the one giving positive praise and feedback? Are you the "face" of your company or do you work quietly in the background?
Community and Neighborhood - do you volunteer at church or in the community? Do you chair a committee or event or are you a dedicated committee member? Are you a friend to your neighbors? Do you know their faces but not their names or do you share a chat while out working in the yard?
Think of other areas where you spend your time and consider what you bring to that area of your life. Write these thoughts in your journal. When you feel unappreciated or that what you are doing is going unnoticed, come back and read what you have written and you will see what a blessing you are to all.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Week 3 Comment
This weekend I've been watching the Olympics. Despite participating on their team, with their country mates, each athlete retains their uniqueness. That special quality that makes them "different" from others. Not better, not worse, just unique. As you write in your journal, look for those traits that define your uniqueness and keep you a member of the team of life.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Be Unique
Be Yourself - Everyone else is already taken. Unknown quote.
Often we feel "different" from others, that we don't fit in and wish we could be someone else. We fail to see the uniqueness of ourselves and all that we bring to our world. Here are some suggestions for your journal.
1. List 3 to 5 qualities you admire in others. Next to each one, write an example of when you displayed that quality.
2. List 3 to 5 qualities you have that you wish you could change. Next to each one, write an example of when you showed that you really don't show that quality very often.
3. List 3 to 5 qualities that you like or admire about yourself. Next to each one, list a time when someone complimented you on each quality.
As you read over the lists and examples, you will see how unique you are and how much you bring to your world. These are the wonderful qualities that others love about you. Read these often to remember yourself of the gift you are to yourself and others.
Often we feel "different" from others, that we don't fit in and wish we could be someone else. We fail to see the uniqueness of ourselves and all that we bring to our world. Here are some suggestions for your journal.
1. List 3 to 5 qualities you admire in others. Next to each one, write an example of when you displayed that quality.
2. List 3 to 5 qualities you have that you wish you could change. Next to each one, write an example of when you showed that you really don't show that quality very often.
3. List 3 to 5 qualities that you like or admire about yourself. Next to each one, list a time when someone complimented you on each quality.
As you read over the lists and examples, you will see how unique you are and how much you bring to your world. These are the wonderful qualities that others love about you. Read these often to remember yourself of the gift you are to yourself and others.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
A Gift
http://www.edictionary.com/ defines "gift" as "something given voluntarily without payment in return, as to show favor toward someone, honor an occasion, or make a gesture of assistance; present."
This week I wanted to focus on what we are working on with this blog - the gift of thoughts. Your thoughts come to you voluntarily, no one else put them there and no one can take them away. Your thoughts can be favorable towards someone including yourself. They can honor a special occasion and you can be the guest of honor! You will almost always feel better when you give the gift of yourself to help someone else.
Here are some questions to start your journal:
1. Sit quietly, listen to nothing except your breathing. Slowly you will notice a thought coming to you. Repeat the positive thought over and over until it becomes rhythmic. Write it in your journal and read it when you need to feel relaxed.
2. Did your thought speak positively about yourself? If not or even if it was about you, sit quietly again and let a positive thought about the gift you are to yourself come into your thoughts. Repeat it until it becomes rhythmic. Write it in your journal and read it to stay positive.
3. What have you done for another person this week? Did you call a friend or send a card? Make dinner for a friend? Volunteer at a local agency? Clean out a closet and donate clothes you never wear to a worthy organization?
Remember that the greatest gifts of all are what you do for yourself because then you can be a gift to others.
Have a great week!
This week I wanted to focus on what we are working on with this blog - the gift of thoughts. Your thoughts come to you voluntarily, no one else put them there and no one can take them away. Your thoughts can be favorable towards someone including yourself. They can honor a special occasion and you can be the guest of honor! You will almost always feel better when you give the gift of yourself to help someone else.
Here are some questions to start your journal:
1. Sit quietly, listen to nothing except your breathing. Slowly you will notice a thought coming to you. Repeat the positive thought over and over until it becomes rhythmic. Write it in your journal and read it when you need to feel relaxed.
2. Did your thought speak positively about yourself? If not or even if it was about you, sit quietly again and let a positive thought about the gift you are to yourself come into your thoughts. Repeat it until it becomes rhythmic. Write it in your journal and read it to stay positive.
3. What have you done for another person this week? Did you call a friend or send a card? Make dinner for a friend? Volunteer at a local agency? Clean out a closet and donate clothes you never wear to a worthy organization?
Remember that the greatest gifts of all are what you do for yourself because then you can be a gift to others.
Have a great week!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
What To do
"Remember that whenever you want to do something, there are others who are there to help you. Even if you fall down, they will help you dust yourself off so you can ride on and be everything you want to be and do everything want to do." - Unknown
Have you ever been afraid to do something by yourself? Fear is one of the hardest obstacles to overcome. Yet, it is through fear that we make our greatest impact. Do you remember something you did that made you afraid? After you accomplished it, were there people to support you? Chances are there were people there however the greatest support was probably within yourself.
Make a list of what you want to accomplish. Choose one and list small steps that you can do every day to reach that goal. Tell a friend or two or three what you are doing and you will find all the support you need.
Have a great day!
Have you ever been afraid to do something by yourself? Fear is one of the hardest obstacles to overcome. Yet, it is through fear that we make our greatest impact. Do you remember something you did that made you afraid? After you accomplished it, were there people to support you? Chances are there were people there however the greatest support was probably within yourself.
Make a list of what you want to accomplish. Choose one and list small steps that you can do every day to reach that goal. Tell a friend or two or three what you are doing and you will find all the support you need.
Have a great day!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Waiting
This blog has been up for just a couple of days. Friends on Facebook have wished me well and I hope they and others are following. Posting isn't required or even expected, I hope just that you will be enriched by this blog.
I chose this verse because I believe there is a greater plan than the one we see for each of us. I have always planned to write in a journal and usually I do. I believe this blog is a journal for each of to "prosper" our gifts, whatever they may be.
I chose this verse because I believe there is a greater plan than the one we see for each of us. I have always planned to write in a journal and usually I do. I believe this blog is a journal for each of to "prosper" our gifts, whatever they may be.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
And So It Begins
Week 1
I hope you will enjoy the gift of this journey as we start our first week. I have chosen to start with a favorite Bible verse however each week our topic may be from the Bible or an inspirational quote.
Jeremiah 29: 11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This is probably my favorite verse from the Bible. It has had great meaning to me many, many times in my life. Look at the many parts of this one verse as you journal:
"For I know the plans"
"I have for you"
"Plans to prosper you"
"and not to harm you"
"plans to give you hope and a future.”
Enjoy this weekly gift for your thoughts.
I hope you will enjoy the gift of this journey as we start our first week. I have chosen to start with a favorite Bible verse however each week our topic may be from the Bible or an inspirational quote.
Jeremiah 29: 11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This is probably my favorite verse from the Bible. It has had great meaning to me many, many times in my life. Look at the many parts of this one verse as you journal:
"For I know the plans"
"I have for you"
"Plans to prosper you"
"and not to harm you"
"plans to give you hope and a future.”
Enjoy this weekly gift for your thoughts.
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