Reflections on the A - Z Blogger Challenge 2013

 

Another action packed, fun filled, stress and laughter inducing, insightful, touching and meaningful month was had in April.  Whilst I am relieved that the A-Z blogging challenge has finally finished, it feels like there is a big hole left - which will be quickly filled visiting those blogs that I didn't get to see..

I will start out by saying a big THANK YOU to Lee and all the team of Ambassadors and Co-hosts that helped, supported, cheered by the side lines as we rolled out our posts and left encouraging comments.

For my challenge I had decided that it was to be a celebration of life, I listed a range of encouraging words that I would talk about, we often don't get to celebrate our achievements, shining the light on our gifts, staying motivated to keep going.  Being a creative can be an isolating journey but its the collaboration and connection and network that you can find to participate in that makes it so rewarding.  On top of the encouraging words I decided to push myself and complete a series of paintings and journal pages, it became challenging towards the end but I am so glad I kept on going.  It was great to be able to visit so many more participants and I was able to share the links of some of the other participants whose blog began with the letter for the day, there are still a few to visit, but I can take my time now.

Two highlights happened in April I was able to share the news of being chosen to participate in an Art and Healing Exhibition  (running until 5th June 2013) showing the ways in which art can be used to impact on health and well-being.  And the other highlight was meeting up for the first time with Hilary from Positive Letters, - she came to the opening of the exhibition, and I shared this in my Relationships post.

All in all it was an enjoyable month, I really glad I participated for another year, many connections were made and I look forward to keeping in touch with new found friends.  If you were thinking of joining in and didn't  I recommend that you get ready for next year, you will not look at your blog in the same way and definitely get more out than you put in.  I am looking forward to the challenges that lay ahead and look forward to seeing you on the journey!

Gratitudes - Water

Water 

Helps to renew and refresh - a cool glass of water can set you up for the rest of the day....

What are you grateful for today?

Z is for Zest

Zest 

Great enthusiasm and energy.  The quality of being exciting or interesting, the outer part of the peel or an orange, lemon

I love life, knowing that I can make a difference.  We have the opportunity to make the world that we live in more beautiful, not just for the privileged few, but for all.  We have just one life to live and we have to grab it with both hands and shake it from time to time.  We have been given so many opportunities, and experiences that our life has to mean something, impact in a good way, going on to help others grow and develop.  We shouldn't be satisfied with hiding behind closed doors letting our talents and abilities shrivel up, but really appreciate each day, hour and minute, making it and being the best we can.  

I am amazed at how quickly this month has gone by, with this the last post for the A-Z April 2013 Challenge, I will probably do a reflection post over the next few days about the experience, will just let the dust settle a bit first.  It has been great being able to visit so many blogs, still got a few to go....

I celebrate the zest I have for my life and all that I can do to bless others.  What is it in your life that excites you?

 

 

 

Painting for the day 
Each day I will show a completed piece of art or journal page hope you enjoy today's

 Work in progress - One of the largest paintings I have worked on measuring 36"x40"

Blog Love

I am sharing some love with those who are also taking part in the challenge, it's not everyone whose blog starts with the letter Z, but a few of them for you to start with...

Zoe Cottage

A-Z Chuck Allen

A-Z Challenge - Third Age

A-Z Word Practice - Jocelyn Charette

A-Z Mommy

Y is for Youthful

Millions of pounds are spent each year by people trying to grasp onto their youth, either through the nip and tuck or buying products with the promise of youthful skin and banished wrinkles.  We abuse our bodies through lack of healty practices then want the quick fix that the industry can offer.  Trying to cover up or cutting away the outward appearance to appear forever young.

For me, what is important is to take care of our minds and bodies so that we prevent what comes through lack of care, and that we take each moment as special - making the most of every opportunity.  Life doesn't stop because you reach a certain age, you can look back and with wisdom launch yourself in your next adventure. I celebrate my life today for still being able to laugh and see the joy that is left.  How is your youthfulness expressed? 

Painting for the day 
Each day I will show a completed piece of art or journal page hope you enjoy today's

Art Journal Page

Blog Love

I am sharing some love with those who are also taking part in the challenge, it's not everyone whose blog starts with the letter Y, but a few of them for you to start with....

Your All-Write Nanny

Ya Gotta Laught about it

Yes, Virginia, there is life after Retirement

YA Writer and Hobbit in Training

Yum Food Blog