Art comes in many forms . . .

I have a confession to make- I love watching home design shows. I was pondering my need to watch these shows because I am not a homeowner, and in fact, have downsized to a relatively small living space. So what is behind this "need"?

Then it came to me. The designers are actually producing works of art when they take a bland living space and turn it into something beautiful.

My favorite designer began as a visual artist, and on each episode he gifts the homeowner with an original canvas painting or other artwork. His designs are full of color and fresh ideas. One of the appeals to watching him is that he has such a wonderfully fun and joyous personality, and one feels happy just watching him interact with his great crew and his clients. He truly loves what he is doing. His designs are an extension of that joyous presentation.  He is on my "bucket list"- before I die, I would love to have him design a room for me or at the very least have an art piece done by him. 

Running a close second is a beautiful lady whose designs are truly divine. She too has a wonderful sense of humor, and like the previous designer described, she surrounds herself with a like-minded crew. Her room designs, use of textures and the right amount of bling, and her insight into what the clients want make the results absolutely stellar in all situations.

A former set designer and his English bulldog have also surprisingly stolen my heart and imagination (Okay, the bulldog stole my heart and the designs my imagination.) The series is edgy and radical, much different than anything I thought I would like. His clients are both residential and commercial properties, and the designs are equally outrageous and wonderful. Looking like a tough guy complete with tattoos, he always adds a surprise gift- something the space needs, but that the client has either not thought about or was not able to add themselves. This unexpected thoughtfulness sealed the deal for me, and his clients seem to be thinking along the same lines- they adore him. Needless to say, his crew members are as edgy as he is, but also just as delightful.

Do you know what these three, and several other designers that I enjoy watching, have in common? They embrace their respective gifts or talents- they really are artists following their passions. And from all appearances, they are incredibly happy doing just that- and making many other people happy as well. One cannot ask for much more than that in life!

Each of us has a unique gift or spark in us that needs nurtured. I would have loved to have been a visual or vocal artist, but that is not my gift or talent. And I know that when I do not write, it feels like something is missing and I am not as happy. When I allow that writing spark to flame up again, I am content. And it really is something special to be able to impact others with my writing.

Is there something you have wanted to pursue- maybe painting, music lessons, a writing class? Or just taking the time to enjoy your passion, whatever it may be? Well, why not start today!

Secrets One - The Series

What we sow, we shall reap . . .

Something has been bugging me! Negativity!

This has presented a challenge in writing this blog because I did not want it to sound negative, the very thing that has been bugging me!

Let me just say that I love the opportunities that the "internet” presents. To me, it is like a multitude of doors are open to connections. Or, this is funny because the picture just popped in my mind, one huge transparent wall now open to all my contacts! So, for me, the internet is a good and positive thing, and allows opportunities to write in a delightful variety of ways while being in contact with friends and family.

But, like every good thing, it can be used for harm. Depending on the use, the user can actually hide behind the anonymity of it all. If a person feels anonymous, the guard and restraint comes down, and things are written (said) or done that otherwise would not be. I have been floored by some of the things I have read- some directed at "regular" people and others at public figures-just horrible, negative and many times untruthful thoughts. There is no face-to-face contact, what does it matter?

In that same vein, I believe one's talent- or gift- is given for good purposes. I think it is meant for edification- for good, the uplifting of others- not for destruction or harm to others. I would rather speak (write) favor over someone- to encourage them. Now, of course, not everyone who types something into a website, blog or even comments section is called to the purpose of writing. But, still, the words are tools. Used mindlessly or harmfully, the words have the same effect on both the writer and reader- it causes harm, discouragement and even depression and anxiety.

I have said it before, and I will say it again- words do have power. Really, anything we “feed on” affects us- our thinking and our actions. My goal and hope is that what I write has a positive effect on others- whether it is uplifting and edifying, or simply entertaining and makes someone smile!

Like other actions in life, I do believe “what we sow, so shall we reap”.

Have a wonderful, creative and positive day!

Secrets One - The Series

A new book to be written . . .

Wow- it is really hard to believe 2010 is winding down, and a new year about to begin! It seems like only yesterday I wrote a blog about the open book of this new year!

Well, the chapters for 2010 have been mostly written. Some are what I expected, others had wonderful surprises, and some were disappointing or even sad. There were things to celebrate- such as my son turning 21! There was sadness, with the loss of good friends and medical issues for myself and a loved one. If there are any regrets for the year, it is time to put them aside and start anew in the year that will soon be upon us.

It is a common theory that artistic types are emotional or even temperamental. It is also said that emotions- particularly intense situations whether happy or sad- produce some of the best art whether it be visual, writing or performance. There is probably much truth in that.

Being a published author, blogging, and working on related projects are a work in progress for me. My background is in journalism, and in many ways a more straight forward approach to writing. With newspaper writing, emotions and personal viewpoints were not allowed unless it was a feature article or opinion piece. What a pleasure to have the artistic freedom to grow through various emotions and experiences as an author and collaborator.

I think I have grown artistically over the past year, and especially in writing this blog. The personal expression is a fun release! I usually am one of those people who will write from sun up to sun down, but don't ask me to write about myself- laughs! And, I do think each situation of the past year- good or bad- has helped shape those changes in me.

It won't be long before the book of 2010 will be complete, and the book of 2011 will be open with fresh, new pages. I look forward to great new chapters for us all!

Secrets One - The Series