365 Days of Colour - Flower of the Day 195 - 201

Day 195

Reflection

There is so much to be thankful for, make a list of 5 things you appreciate in your life.

Quote

All of our dreams can come true- if we have the courage to pursue them.....Walt Disney

Scripture

By one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy...Hebrews 10:14

Day 196

Reflection

We make choices all the time, which ones will you make about your life today

Quote

I am only one.  But still I am one.  I cannot do everything, but I still I can do something.  I will not refuse to do the something that I can do...Helen Keller

Scripture

O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His loving kindness is everlasting...1 Chronicles 16:34

Day 197

Reflection

Life is what you make it Every day

Quote

Enthusiasm is a kind of faith that has been set afire....George Matthew Adams

Scripture

Every word of God is pure; He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him...Proverbs 30:5

Day 198

Reflection

The sun came out just for you today

Quote

One of the first things to do is learn to accept, and to expect this Power to flow through everything we do....Ernest Holmes

Scripture

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angles without knowing it...Hebrews 13:2

Day 199

Reflection

What are you hoping for today, how can you work towards it?

Quote

You can’t erase a dream, you can only wake me up....Peter Frampton

Scripture

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe...Proverbs  18:10

Day 200

Reflection

You are a work in progress

Quote

Why should we all use our creative power? Because there is nothing that makes people so generous, joyful, lively, bold and compassionate, so indifferent to fighting and the accumulation of objects and money... Brenda Ueland

Scripture

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ...Ephesians 1:3

Day 201

Reflection

It’s time to take action

Quote

This we know: all things are connected, like the blood which unites one family. All things are connected.  Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. Man did not weave the web of life. He is merely a strand of it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself....Chief Seattle  

Scripture

This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us...1 John 5:14

365 Days of Colour - Flower of the Day 188 - 194

Day 188

Reflection

Treat yourself like the treasure that you are.

Quote

Every production of an artist should be the expression of an adventure of his soul...

W. Somerset Maugham

Scripture

This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us...1 John 5:14

Day 189

Reflection

Let go and shine, like the star you are becoming

Quote

I will not die an unlived life. I will not live in fear of falling or catching fire. I choose to inhabit my days, to allow my living to open me, to make me less afraid, more accessible, to loosen my heart until it becomes a wing, a torch, a promise. I choose to risk my significance; to live so that which comes to me as seed goes to the next as blossom and that which comes to me as blossom, goes on as fruit.  ....Dawna Markova

Scripture

..the Lord delights in those who far Him, who put their hope in His unfailing love...Psalm 147:11

Day 190

Reflection

Take the time to sit back and really enjoy the blessings in your life

Quote

Every blade of grass has its angel that bends over it and whispers, “Grow, grow.” ..

The Talmud

Scripture

The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice..Psalm 97:1

Day 191

Reflection

Love is the key, how will you show yourself that love

Quote

Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive...

Harold Whitman

Scripture

And do not neglect doing good and sharing; for with such sacrifices God is pleased..Hebrews 13:16

Day 192

Reflection

It’s your time to let love in for you

Quote

All is procession. The universe is a procession with measured and beautiful motion...

Walt Whitman

Scripture

Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God...Matthew 5:9

Day 193

Reflection

Amazing blessings will start to unfold into your life

Quote

I believe the lasting revolution comes from deep changes in ourselves which influence our collective life.  ....Anais Nin

Scripture

For He will give His angels charge concerning

Day 194

Reflection

Bless yourself with honesty, be gentle

Quote

The position of the artist is humble. He is essentially a channel...Piet Mondrian

Scripture

For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways...

Psalm 91:11

Try Something New for 30 Days December 2011 Challenge

December sees a new month and new challenges to be had!  I really want to make changes to every aspect of my life and starting out with small changes will eventually become bigger changes.  You can see how I got on with the November walking challenge.

The challenge I have set myself this month will be to write a minimum of 100 words a day.  The overall aim is to write a selection of childrens short stories combined with my mixed media art work in it. This is something I have always wanted to do, and thought why not for one month - again giving myself small chunks a day at a time see how I get on, I might find that I absolutely love it, or find that it was great for a month and its not something I want to continue. 

One of my favourite childrens books is by Ezra Jack Keats I still have a copy of The Snowy Day, he used a combination of gouache with collage in his work.

I was inspired back in 2010 to look at how I could combine my work into stories in a similar way.  This is how my decision to write started out....never took off and changed direction slightly:

• In 2004 I decided that I wanted to write childrens books, I never did, all I did was write a list of 45 possible titles, not sure why, but felt compelled to, I was determined to write......

• 2006 - I updated the book in January and promised myself that I would start at the end of the month.....
• 2007 saw me reviewing my goals ....and
• 2010 February after looking at why I hadn't started I realised I didn't want to write childrens books but childrens short stories and combine my love for mixed media.

So in December 2011 I have been nervous about committing myself, but you have to jump sometime!  I worked out that even doing my morning pages I write close to 1000 words if not more on occasions. So I will start, the main aim being not to complete the 45 story titles but to enjoy the process of writing and creating the art. If you don't start now when will you start, there is no time like the present!

If you would like to join in and give yourself a challenge this month leave your link below so that we can visit your blog and give you support and encouragment.  I will be leaving update posts each week to share how I have been getting on and look forward to visiting your blogs to see how you have been getting on.

Update - Week 1 and 2

Art Every Day Month (AEDM) and Try Something New Challenge Week 4 Update

Today sees the end of two challenges that I have been doing, the Art Every Day Month (AEDM) in my Mixed Media Art blog and Try Something New for 30 days here on this blog. With the AEDM the main thing was to do something creative every day and  I have thoroughly enjoyed taking part. 

Spending time with our creativity takes practice and discipline and over the course of time you see the value of spending getting to know yourself and how you work even if it is for only 5 minutes.   I still plan to visit the other artists that took part over the month there is so much inspiring work out there and a big thanks goes out to Leah Piken Kolidas for hosting AEDM as well as other challenges.

Making time for 'me' and and achieving goals were the reasons why I wanted to start the challenge Try something new, I realised there are so many things we say we are 'going to do' but the time passes and before we know it the years have passed us by.  It feels like yesterday that I committed myself to walking 20 minutes a day but it was 30 days ago, that's how fast time is flying....

...we have no guarantees about tomorrow, what are you going to do with your today?

I now know how easy it is to get myself up and out and enjoy walking, I have also found ways to be flexible and fit around my schedule and though we have come to the end of the month it is something  I will keep up, alongside creating daily.

For December I have decided to do another challenge for 30 days, something that I've always said I would do but didn't find the time.  I will be glad for others to join in.  What have you always said you wanted to do?  Make it a realistic challenge that you can stick to, break it down and set yourself up to look back at the end of December and see that the challenge is completed!

You will be able to leave your blog link details in the main section so that we can visit you and give you support and encouragement during the month.  Would love to hear your thoughts on challenges that you have done!

365 Days of Colour - Flower of the Day 181 - 187

Officially half way through these, only 178 images, quotes, scriptures and reflections to go!  It's been very rewarding, I hope you are still being inspired.  Stay blessed as you go through your week

Day 181

Reflection

Forgiveness is the key

Quote

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul alike....John Muir

Scripture

...with God all things are possible..Mark 10:27

Day 182

Reflection

It will get better

Quote

This is the beginning of a new day. You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in its place is something that you have left behind…. Let it be something good....Unknown

Scripture

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless.  He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him..Psalm 18:30

Day 183

Reflection

All is well, all is at peace.

Quote

And forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair.  ....Kahlil Gibran

Scripture

I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you...John 14:18

Day 184

Reflection

Can you believe it, you’ve come a long way

Quote

Here is a test to find out whether your mission in life is complete. If you’re alive, it isn’t...Richard Bach

Scripture

By one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy..

Hebrews 10:14

Day 185

Reflection

Smiling is contagious

Quote

There is no such thing in anyone’s life as an unimportant day....Alexander Woollcott

Scripture

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His loving kindness is everlasting...

1 Chronicles 16:34

Day 186

Reflection

You are beautiful inside and out

Quote

People travel to wonder at the height of the mountains, at the huge waves of the seas, at the long course of the rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars, and yet they pass by themselves without wondering.  ....St. Augustine

Scripture

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it...Hebrews 13:2

Day 187

Reflection

Take the time to nurture the dreams that live within you

Quote

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes...Marcel Proust

Scripture

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs into it and is safe...

Proverbs 18:10

Book Review - George Washington Carver - John Perry

This book is part of the Close Encounters of the Christian Kind written by John Perry.  I had heard of George Washington Carver but never really knew much about him. 

Carver is known for his research in discovering many uses for the peanut.  Reading this book uncovered a whole other side to what was a very complex individual.  We get to accompany the writer on an adventure into Carver's life and accomplishments.  Perry has an incredible knack of drawing you in and making the pages come alive, he has an easy writing style and language that almost makes you feel you are personally getting to know Carver.

From humble beginnings Carver, born in 1864 made many contributions to society.  Despite segregation and racism denying him an education his determination and faith drove him to better himself.  He pursued an education and worked to see better conditions and sustained self sufficiency for his community and the population at large.  In 1896 he completed his masters degree and he was asked to join the faculty of the Tuskegee Institute by Booker T Washington.

His research at the institute resulted in the creation of more than 300 products from peanuts such as cooking oil, peanut butter and paint. He also created more than 100 products from sweet potatoes and is responsible for inventing synthetic materials, such as marble and plywood, even inventing the dye which is still used in crayons. A talented artist, Carver created some of his own paints using local clays, he produced many works of art, but sadly most were destroyed in a fire.

His thirst for knowledge is admirable, not being content in following one field he became expert in a number of disciplines, not allowing his circumstances to define him or discourage him, he made a path for himself, was generous with his time and instilled hope in all who heard him speak, with a view that 'Any man could start with nothing and achieve great things'.

 I would definitely recommend reading this book, it's not only informative but is great look at where courage, discipline, focus and determination can take you.

Try Something New - Week 3 Update

I am astounded at how quick the week went, I thought I'd get this update done as I go into week 4.  I tried to vary the time of my walks to see how I felt, and did an evening and afternoon walk.

I realised I prefered to hear the birds tweeting rather than the traffic, and you notice how many people are on the road and it then doesn't become a peaceful 'alone with my thoughts' activity, so the verdict is that either walking first thing or walking at lunch time when there is a bit of sunshine all helps to make an enjoyable walk.  I am also beginning to feel that 'have to get out urge' rather than forcing myself to get my things together, and when I do get that feeling of not wanting to go out, even with all the preparation, I have to remind myself it's only 10 mins in one direction then back!

This week I took a walk round where my mother lives in Camden.  It  brought back childhood memories of me standing on my mothers balcony which looked onto the main road.

I'd sing songs I made up hoping a record producer would hear me as they drove by....I was determined to be spotted, and sang at the top of my lungs;

I'm only 11,11, 11 but what's the use, use, use of me trying to get in show biz,

wow oh wiz you never see me crying,

wow oh wiz I'll never stop trying.......

I would sing on the balconly mostly at the weekends. Funny I am not sure what the neighbours thought, I never knew if they complained the only one that did complain was my little brother who would tell me what an awful voice I had, (brothers eh)!

My mothers estate backs on to two film studios.  On Monday I was in the process of going for my walk and putting out her recycling in the boxes which overlook the studios in my 'never wear these out on the streets, unless it's dark and no one can see you tracksuit' and who should drive up through her estate to the studio but Gok Wan, who glanced at me as I turned, I had to laugh as he had the look of 'you'd be just right for my extreme Makeover show' on his face.  Anyway...not to be deterred by my momentary embarrassement I strode off, vowing to myself that I would get a decent tracksuit to do my workouts in.

There are a lot of squirrels still to be seen, not sure if they are confused by the mildness of the weather and are eating up all their spring store or if they are still collecting for the winter.

Working on challenges to come....trying to get things organised such as website, goals and dreams for 2012, the thought of making 12 changes in the year that are lasting and will make a difference in my life is quite exciting.  I have been taking part in the Art Every Day Month on my other blog, will be updating some of the work I have been doing for the last few days, and have been doing some more backgrounds.  There is still so much to see in regards to the plant life, lots of bright blooms still on show;

and some rather unusual looking mushrooms growing on the grass..

but the changing of the leaves have been spectacular to see;

Roll on week 4 need to start thinking what challenge December will bring, what do I want to try?  What change do you think you would like to challenge yourself to making? Blessings for the rest of the week.

Week 4 Update
Week 2 Update
Week 1 Update

365 Days of Colour - Flower of the Day 174 - 180

I am practically half way through the 365 days of colour and it has been very challenging at times as I have had to be disciplined and sometimes as we know we don't want to update or show up, we just want to be.  What has kept me going is that I love the beauty of the images, and I remember where I was for every flower.  Some have come from my garden over the year watching the changing seasons, others while I've been on holiday or while out on my walking challenge.  I've stuck to the aim of providing colour and inspiration via the quotes, scriptures and reflections and it has been a blessing to me.  I do hope you are enjoying the posts and would love to have your thoughts on challenges that you are working your way through.  Have a blessed week.

Day 180

Reflection

Your life can be beautiful

Quote

You must be the change you wish to see in the world.  ....Mahatma Gandhi

Scripture

Do not fear; for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, surely I will help you...Isaiah 41:10

Day 179

Reflection

Some doors are meant to close

Quote

Stop the words now.  Open the window in the centre of your chest, And let the spirits fly in and out.... Rumi

Scripture

My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness..11 Corinthians 12:9

Day 178

Reflection

When you fall pick yourself up and start again

Quote

A rock pile ceases to be a rock pile the moment a single man contemplates it, bearing within him the image of a cathedral. ....Antoine De Saint-Exupery

Scripture

...the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved..Matthew 24:13

Day 177

Reflection

You have everything you need for your journey

Quote

Some men see things as they are and ask why. Others dream things that never were and ask why not. ....George Bernard Shaw

Scripture

..We have confidence before God; and whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His Sight..1 John 3:21-22

Day 176

Reflection

Do not hold on to anger or bitterness, they will destroy you. 

Quote

I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time...Jack London 

Scripture

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble..Psalm 46:1

Day 175

Reflection

What does God say about you?

Quote

I still need more healthy rest in order to work at my best. My health is the main capital I have and I want to administer it intelligently....Ernest Hemingway 

Scripture

Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness..James 3:18

Day 174

Reflection

Just because you acknowledge the pain, doesn’t mean you are weak....Hand it over to God, he cares for you.

Quote

Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart.  Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens. ....Carl Jung

Scripture

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His loving kindness is everlasting..Psalm 118:29

Try Something New - Week 2 update

Well end of week 2 of the challenge, noticed a few changes in the week. I took a different route this week to keep the scenary interesting, this is the back of wembley stadium (looks like a space ship landed)......

I've been more determined and focused to do things, wanting to make the most of time. I have been working on getting my website updated, and taking pictures of new work. 

Noticing more things about the environment on the walk, birds singing and chattering to each other - they seem to be really loud in the morning.  We have a bakery about 4 miles from us and you get the smell of cakes and biscuits in the air.  I am aching a bit more, but trying to keep a steady pace and stretch after the walk.  Wanting to tie up loose ends and make sure that I am up to date with my tasks that need to be sorted and generally work harder, again having to be flexible in my approach realising I could quite easily talk myself out of the walk, so I still need to make sure I have what is necessary to get up and out each day. 

Feeling like doing some gardening, tidying up and getting it ready for the winter period, we have our garden waste collected each week so I can get rid of more stuff for composting, with all this mild weather need to take advantage of it!   It's Sekani's birthday today he's 16 years old, and celebrations will commence for him on Friday. He has just finished his exams.  Looking forward to week 3 revelations!  Do let me know how you are getting on in your challenges.

Week 4 Update
Week 3 Update
Week 1 Update