Monday Muse # 4

image - muse

Do you have alot on your mind except the kitchen sink?

I do too....

I never did get my Sundae on Sunday either...sigh.

photo by: Carey Primeau

Wait... where did I put that sink anyway?

Yep- it's Monday! I love Monday's!

I think one reason why I like them IS because

it's a start of a new week. Another day- another chance.

It's a new day! Please don't wish it away!

photo by: ©The World Is My Studio

A Sundae on a sunny Sunday...

A Sundae on a sunny Sunday sounds good to me!

What are your Sundays like?

And how do you like your Sundaes?

Talk amongst yourselves while I get another napkin.

Heavy on the hot fudge and all.

     Oh no... catch it before it tips over!

Leaning Tower of Sundae!

My lovelies, should I devote every Sunday to Sundaes?

Grab a spoon and tell me what you think!

♥

awesome art - love

Hide n Seek

A place for fairytales, games of hide and seek,

woodland creatures, and where childhood reigns.

Head on over to Kate and Oli

for a fabulous giveaway!

My favorites:

"Pray the anchor stays heavy, my child......"

"My Captain... We've reached the end of the world"

pencil - love

I use pens alot...but sometimes what you need is a pencil!

Now- these pencils are wicked cool!

You can get these at Earmark.

Check their shop for more pencils,
journals, banners and more.

The couple who run Earmark are from Massachusetts.

I went to college there... and I love it.

♥

Giveaway time!

Photo Giveaway! The lovely Kelsey of
http://www.courageousmother.blogspot.com/
 is hosting a giveaway for yours truly. Head on over to her blog and see what's going on! You could win a matted photograph from "The World Is My Studio"

Good luck!

Kitteh'

Hunter, Hunter-baby, Fluffy, Kitteh'

This is my parents cat.

He is a total country boy!

 Unfortunately for the nearby wild life,

he really lives up to his name, Hunter.

Words have power.

So, if you don't want your furry friend to be a devil,
don't name him "Devil".

When he first came into our lives,
I suggested we call him, "Fluffy".

Only sarcastically though!

I do call him that sometimes.

I say, he's got a split personality.

A sweet - angelic - Fluffy and

a ferocious - force - to be reckoned with - Hunter.

Occassionally, I have nightmares that he eats my birdy.

Complete, with me calling out in my sleep.

Lastnight, I dreamt he had something in his throat

but when I released it, it was a tube of conditioner. Strange.

He could use some. His fur gets matted.

He's not the cuddly kind but he does sleep on my bed.

He loves taking walks with me. I think that's pretty cool!

photographs by ©The World Is My Studio

Monday Muse # 2

image - muse

Today was a long day.

 I still love Monday's though!

The company was good, :) Mom.

This cheered me up some too!

Starbucks!

 Tall, Soy, Cinnamon Dolce', no whip = heaven in a cup (even in a to-go cup)

I've been looking for a cool scarf.. today I found this:

I was daydreaming about this:

Somebody please make me some! Pretty please!

lots more images and recipes - found here

What cheers you up?

Mom, Momasita, Mon mere', Judy

 My Mom is the most influential person in my life.

I'm proud to be her daughter!

Saying "Thank You Mom" for all you've done for me,

gone through with me, sharing good and bad,

doesn't really seem like much. Merely words.

But I mean them from the bottom of my big heart! ♥

©The World Is My Studio

If you are gonna dream, dream big.

Maybe a big balloon will carry me away...

image

"How I wish, how I wish you were here. We're just two lost souls swimming in a fish bowl... year after year. Running over the same old ground. What have we found? The same old fears. Wish you were here." Pink Floyd

image

By:  TCaponePhoto

What are you day-dreaming of?

Monday Muse

image - muse

I love Monday's!

*ducks down incase of incoming shoes*

 They get a bad rap! I don't have a stressful job that will bring me down though in my favor. There really isn't much to do around here on the weekends anyway.. so Monday brings a natural routine rhythm. One I like, as opposed to a dreaded work week. Maybe "Monday Muse" will bring a smile to your face and your day won't be so blue.

Pass the coffee, please!

This photograph is awesome! Find it here.

I love this! *note to self- Get an iPod!

By: curiouspug

And maybe you need this song in your head, cause it's been stuck in mine!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYHxGBH6o4M

Barefoot Books

  Barefoot Books is a children's book publishing company where you can get amazing books. Your child can learn about different cultures, the earth, even Da Vinci and so much more. Truly great story telling and beautifully illustrated books that will certainly capture your child's attention and encourage their imagination. There's some I want for myself! :) I was lucky enough to win this awesome Yoga card deck by participating in a little competition they had on twitter. I know some kiddos that will be happy to try them and I'm looking forward to using them too! Check out their sites! : @liveBarefoot  http://www.barefootbooks.com/

"You must allow me to tell you..."

I often feel like a Jane Austen character,
lost between the layers of time.

"Pride and Prejudice" is my favorite of hers.

I do have to admit, when I saw

"Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" in the bookstore...

I thought.. well, I thought,
 "Oh Jesus. What have they done to your novel Jane?"

Interestingly enough I have heard good reviews.

So, I decided not to judge this book by it's cover.
 Although I am not a Zombie fan,

I'll have to read it myself.
Of course, while sipping something hot from my new mug!

 (keeping fingers crossed!)
An awesome giveaway!

Here is the link. While there check out
olivebites blog!

♥

Goodbye Betty Suarez...

  Lastnight was the series finale of "Ugly Betty". I'm so sad to see these characters go. This show was fun and the characters were memorable. Crazy, ruthless, wacky, and loving. Betty took on MODE and the fashion world, where she didn't fit in and conquered it. Wilhelmina said "I never thought I'd say this, but you've got big balls, Betty Suarez." I love the way they wrapped up Daniel and Betty's storyline especially. They didn't throw them together romantically. That wouldn't have been realistic. But the "possibilty" of them as a couple IS there. And they will always have a great bond no matter what. They wouldn't be where they are without each other and they know it. How great would it be if Daniel ended up working as Betty's assistant? He went to London for her and wants a new start in life. He did say maybe he'd submit his resume. I will miss all the characters, most of all Betty. The kind of girl you want in your corner. Have fun in London Betty!

  Go here for Marc's advice column, shop, Amanda and Betty blogs, MODE magazine covers, Matt's paintings, photos and episode guides.

The blue hour.

The blue hour, a French expression- l'heure bleue, refers to that period of twilight each morning and evening where it is neither fully daylight nor completey dark. The quality of light is so unique at this time and when the smell of the flowers is strongest during the summer. This phrase also refers to Paris, prior to World War 1, which was considered to be "a time of innocence."

in the shop

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

If you are wondering just when this sweet light hour occurs in your area, find out here.

         Just sayin'

In case you forgot.

             ♥♥                 

It's all in the details.

  Going green!

It's important to use products that are

recycled and recyclable!

Here is a preview of the new packaging

that will be available to purchase soon 

at The World Is My Studio. ♥

Full Moon rising

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

I love when the moon is full and it pours light in through the windows. Even better when it's starry out and the land is all shadowy and light. Cats get a bit looney during a full moon if you ask me. Which makes it all the more amusing. The human body is made up of about 70 % water. If the moon can move the ocean, I'm sure it can move us. 

Letter to a friend.

.........I write better than I speak sometimes.
   I've been in a funk since I've been home. Understandably, when you consider I still have alot of pain going on in my body. I just thought I'd feel better once I got back into my room with my things. I feel a bit disoriented. Kinda like.. "What am I doing?" The other day I could not for anything remember what day it was? Friday? Monday? Oh wait, Wednesday. All I want to do is sleep and read strangers blogs. Maybe after the rest of my family come home I will feel better? Maybe after the list of appts. and such I have scheduled in April, including an MRI that I'm really nervous about, I will feel better? I feel like I've been in battle. And I don't know which side is winning. I can do this.
  My brother called  me 2x this week to ask when I'm coming back?! The kids say they need me and miss me alot. Angels have been the reason that I am still "sane". It's the daily duties, like doing a load of laundry or dishes that make me feel human. It's anything creative that I'm doing with my photography or writing that makes me feel alive. I have high hopes and a weakened body. Also a greater sense of self-worth, believe it or not. ♥

Spring Equinox

...when day and night are equal in the two hemispheres. Spring brings new life, growth and new possibilities.
Reflecting nature, take her queue...this is a good time for new potential for ourselves too. New dreams to manifest, new adventures to have. Change is good. And without it, how can you go forward?

"Have I gone mad?"

"I'm afraid so. You're mad, bonkers, off your head! But I'll tell you a secret: All the best people are."

While hanging out in NY.. we saw this:

I think it's safe to say the adults

 liked it more than the kids did.

I loved it! Visually brilliant!

Now, if I could only get someone to make

me a dress like this:

And where would I wear such a dress?

I shall imagine something.

"Sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast."

Maybe I will sit and ponder this:

"Have you any idea why a raven is like a writing desk?"

Embrace your inner madness!

I don't have my "game face" on.

  I didn't realize just how often people think I'm always in a good mood. I always appear calm and in good spirits. I've also been told I have a very expressive face. So... I don't get it. Even when I am depressed someone will make a comment how happy I am. In seriousness. I suppose it may be due to the fact that I look inward for solace. I need physical comfort of course. But I do look to God for solace. I don't need to go far because He's in here ♥.
  It's cold and raining and I have alot of pain in my body right now. And..... I could be in Paris right now.
Yes.. Paris. If you know me well, you know it's at the top of my "Want" list. It was hard to tell myself no. But I did because I knew it just wasn't the right time. I am sad about it though. I've decided not to dwell on it and make sure that in the very near future- it WILL be the right time. Till we meet again Paris.

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

Next stop: home.

  My adventure has been a good one. It hasn't been as carefree as I was hoping. But then again, that isn't easy to achieve when you are staying with people who lead very stressfull lives. But I've had fun along the way. :)There is no other comfort than the comfort of "home". It's time.. I need to go home. It's where I'll be in a couple days. It has been great spending time with friends and family. It's important. I know for me- that will never be a regret. I spend time with people I love. My body is tired and the pain levels haven't decreased. I needed to get away and now I need to get back. I've never spent this long of a period of time away from home other than college. I can't wait to work on new projects. My creativity has been rejuvenated! And I've got ideas for new "stuff"!! I'm looking forward to working on them! I'll be sure to update you all, my lovelies! I'm looking forward to studying again too, continuing on my life's purpose. ♥

Keep on keepin' on....

Keep on keepin' on =
 Continue to do what you've always done.

Keep on reaching for your goals.
♥

With a jam-packed suitcase...

I headed north.

I love this view. 

I've never taken a photo
through a plane's window before 

but how could I resist when the
full moon and sky look like this?

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

destination: NY

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

Mount Dora, Florida

  I spent an awesome day in Mount Dora with my friends and my parents. We strolled through the shops, listened to 60's music by a tribute band, had wine tasting at the local winery.. and went to a ..uhhm-ghost-cough tour of the town.. and ran into someone I met on twitter. Small world. No ghosts. Beautiful place. Great wine. Sweet company. Inspiration found.  Go. Now.

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

Lookie what I found!

Erin, did you forget something?

Once used for sport enhancement. 

 

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

"Avatar"

  So, my friends and I went to see "Avatar" a couple weeks ago. I hadn't paid much attention to the previews or all the Oscar buzz. It wasn't a rock per se, that I've been living under. But.... anyway, it was amazing! I bet it was better because I had no idea what to expect. It truly is an amazing movie! Go watch it, if you haven't already. Preferably in 3D too. I especially like the parallel theme similar to what "we" did to the Native Americans. Except this time, they win. :)  Did anyone else catch that?  

How many blizzards does it take?

In my opinion, just one.

The N.E. is getting blasted by snow and wind.

Hold on my lovelies and stay warm and safe!

Time

  I wish days were longer. Yes, I think I could just hear a multitude of cringes from you all. I wish I was a morning person. I've tried, I'm just not. The light is awesome in the early hours too. And I'm all for a front row seat of the sunrise. Logistics DO play a factor in this though. It's easier to get up early if you're in a favorite place.

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

Florida, finally! (back log)

I spent a couple days with family before meeting up with friends, whom I will be spending awhile with. The weather is cool here for this time of year, however I don't mind too much. It's dreary at home. I'll take cool temperatures over freezing temperatures any day!

A walk and a feather... Notes from the road. (back log)

 Hello Georgia! I'm so glad to see you! Stopping for the night, south of Savannah. Heat, running water and pizza delivery! This campground is really nice!  Our site is right on the river. Ducks, geese and swans greet me. And lots of beautiful birds gracing the tree tops. This little one keeps an eye on me following along the water's edge when I walk. All the while striking poses.  

inspiration

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

Notes from the road. (back log)

 "Toto, We're not in Kansas anymore!" We aren't in Pennsylvania either. Drove through the Carolina's. Stopping at a campground for the night. It is basically deserted. I haven't been this cold in a long time and I live in the N.E. !
   So... we are taking a rest for the night and didn't bother to hook up everything. Which means we are roughing it.  No inspiration here. I did manage to knock over a bunch of brochures in the main office, unknowingly of course, getting a kick out of the reaction of the people who saw it. I'm turning in early....Dreaming of sunshine and Starbucks.
..................................................................
 Leaving early in the a.m. but making a stop that doesn't entail a gas station or a diner. To cushion the boredom blow.. I bought 3 new books for $3 each at J.R.'s!! Incredible! If you're ever in North Carolina check out J.R.'s.They have everything from cigars, perfume, bedding to books, etc. All very reasonably priced. ♥

Gone. In search of inspiration and sunshine!

So... I packed a suitcase and left town. Sounds so spontaneous doesn't it? I hitched a ride with family. First stop, Gettysburg, Pa. If you've never been there, I recommend it. It's a great town, full of history. So much so, that you can feel it. Well, I do anyway. It's a place where interesting things can happen and do. After all, it is the most haunted town in America. We didn't stay long. Long enough to have dinner with family, relax and get a little sleep. I did manage to find my Uncle's stash of Guiness and his cd collection. I snagged a copy of ABBA! That made me happy.
To be continued....

photo by ©The World Is My Studio

p.s. I was glad to see that Extreme Home Makeover mentioned Soles 4 Souls, the organization I wrote about a couple of weeks ago. :)
p.s.s I chopped my bangs, regrettably.
p.s.s.s. Remind me to tell you about my trip to see "Mamma Mia" on Broadway. :)
p.s.s.s.s. Ignore the date on post. It has to go on paper and then online when access is available.

Help for Haiti ♥

Etsy is a wonderful community of artists and vintage sellers. http://www.heartsforhaiti.etsy.com/ is a new shop designed for the sole purpose of raising funds for the relief effort. Sellers are donating their art and wares and all monies from purchases are given to the Doctors Without Borders organization. I was thinking of donating a few photographs from myheart. The Series.

It's hard not knowing how to help or even knowing if your $ is actually going where it should be going in cases like this. Do research if you have to. I feel confident in this organization though. Please lend a helping hand in any way you are comfortable.

On twitter: Doctors Without Borders' updates from Haiti at @MSF_USA

I think I freaked out very gracefully.

I've had alot on my mind lately. Some very justified concerns. Yesterday, I had an appt. One I was really dreading. If you know me at all you'd understand why these things make me nervous. All in all, it went really well. But not before an assistant scared the hell out me, by telling me the worst case scenario was a very good possibilty! I wonder if he could see my heart sink in my eyes. I tried to keep a straight face when I said, "ok." and nodded. He left the room. I closed my eyes and summoned five angels before looking to a loved one sitting next to me. It was a very long 5 minutes I might add before my Dr. walked in! I was very quietly freaking out. His view was a bit different. When it was time to go I nodded in understanding of what is required of me next. As the Dr. walked out he turned back and put his hand on my shoulder and smiled. A sweet gesture. Maybe I didn't have a good poker face like I thought.

Moral of the story.. it's a very good idea to get ALL the facts before giving someone dire news.

Walk a mile in my shoes.

During chaos or tragedy, it's not always easy to put one foot in front of the other. Now, imagine doing this without any shoes. While surfing the web the other day, I found this non-profit organization, Soles 4 Souls. I kept thinking about the phrase, "Don't judge someone until you've walked a mile in their shoes." And the fact that we've all done it at one time or another. I also thought about all the shoes I have that haven't been worn in years. I don't need a karmic nudge to get it. You know what I mean? Check this site out for information on domestic needs, global needs and ways to help. Also, If you type in your zip code under the Donate(Your shoes) banner, you'll get a list of participating locations. Maybe as close as your local mall, where you can drop off a pair of shoes for someone in need. You know you want to. :)
http://www.soles4souls.org/

Au revoir 2009! It's time we parted ways.

Dear 2010....
You and I haven't known each other long, I know. You've been cold. I've been cold. We should probably take things slow but so far we've had alot of fun! I've got lots of plans for us. 2010, I think I love you. ♥

Merry Christmas from my corner of the world to yours!  bisous, bisous

Hello Winter Solstice

Sometimes it seems that life gets in the way of everything. It has been a long time since I've had the inclination to write. A long time since I've had the strength to. Today is Winter Solstice, Midwinter. However, if you live where I do, winter has just begun! This is the shortest day of the year and the longest night. With winter, comes a slower pace and rest. I think that this is a good time to take a "breather". In the stillness of the Solstice we can look inward -recall our dreams, visions and the whole-hearted desires we want for ourselves. Design and nurture them for the days ahead. ♥