Borrowed this one from my dear Sutton.
What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
Creativity Extravaganza Week with Marelisa
January 30, 2009 · Filed Under Uncategorized · 1 Comment
Just wanted to steer everyone in the direction of Marelisa’s Abundance Blog this week. She’s got five STELLAR posts all about creativity. Be sure and check them out.
Sustaining Creativity During Tough Times
Recently, I read an article over at Creativity Portal that really hit home with me.
In the less-than-desirable economic times we find ourselves in, there’s a lot of heartbreak and sorrow. Just about everyone has been affected — some more than others — faced with difficult circumstances and trying decisions.
My husband and I haven’t been immune to this wave of difficulty. In September, he was laid off from his job. With Mississippi unfortunately boasting the 3rd highest unemployment rate in the country, we had some decisions to make. First and foremost, I would search for a full-time job and leave my freelance work to an “extracurricular” activity. Second, we knew there wasn’t much opportunity where we were living at the time.
So, to cut this long drama to its somewhat shorter version….here we are in Nashville. Most of our belongings are spread between our parents houses back home and we are living out of extended stay hotel, searching for jobs. Thank the good Lord, Josh starts a new job in February, but things are harder than they’ve ever been — financially, emotionally and especially CREATIVELY.
I never imagined it would be this hard for me to get a job. I have a masters degree and some invaluable experience. It’s easy to get down on myself and when that happens almost every ounce of creativity seems to drain right out of my soul.
BUT,
I am working on that one. Helen Read’s article is a great reminder for me - and anyone else who’s struggling with difficult times.
AND,
Even in the InTown Suites there is inspiration and creativity to be found. Here’s a few things I’ve been doing to keep my creative spirit alive and as well as I can hope for at this point.
Mandala Coloring
The mandala is ancient religious symbol, usually a complex circular design, found across many different cultures. Coloring the various patterns is a soothing form of meditation.
Stress relief and inspiring art all in one. Perfect when you’re living in a hotel!
Playing Around in Photoshop and Illustrator
There are so many great tutorials and tips for both Adobe Creative Suite products. Since I do have my computer, it’s a great way to pass some time creatively.
Here’s some Illustrator and Photoshop links to keep you busy for months.
Reading
There is nothing in this world like curling up and losing yourself in a good book. Inspiration abound.
Leo at Zen Habits has a great post about the love of reading today.
Best of luck in all your creative endeavors!
You must OBAMICON yourself!
January 20, 2009 · Filed Under Uncategorized · Comment
Found this one via Jess at How About Orange.
Shepard Fairey’s HOPE poster from the 2008 presidential election is not only an iconic image, but a beautifully designed image as well. Thanks to Paste Magazine you can OBAMICON yourself!
I used my Word for 2009 to Obamicon myself…
Happy Inauguration Day, everyone!
BELIEVE in 2009
January 5, 2009 · Filed Under Uncategorized · 1 Comment
Thanks to Leah and Ali for the inspiration.
2008 Year in Review
December 23, 2008 · Filed Under Uncategorized · Comment
White Water Rafting
What date from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
The night Josh proposed. It was the most perfect moment ever. And, of course, my wedding day.
What was your biggest achievement of the year?
BOOM Jackson magazine - I worked my butt off on it
What was your biggest failure?
Giving in to selfishness
What was the best thing you bought?
My wedding photographer’s time and talents. She did an amazing job capturing the story of our day.
Where did most of your money go?
From January –> August it all went to the wedding.
What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Moving to Nashville
What song will always remind you of 2008?
“That’s How Strong My Love Is” - Otis Redding
How will you be spending Christmas?
Christmas Eve with my husband’s family and Christmas Day with mine
Did you fall in love in 2008?
100 times over again
What was your favorite TV program?
The First 48, Time Warp, Mythbusters, Cash Cab
Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
No hate, but there’s definitely disappointment in a few people who revealed their true colors
What was the best book you read?
Way too many to choose, but I fell in love with Julia Cameron’s books all over again
What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
27, two days after Josh through me a surprise dinner out with friends and PROPOSED
What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
That’s one I’ll keep to myself
How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
I don’t know that I’d call it a “fashion concept” but typically I’m in the most comfortable thing I can get away with.
What kept you sane?
Josh, Buddy and Audi, Crafting, Writing
What political issue stirred you the most?
two words: Frank Meltion
Who did you miss?
My little sister. She’s soooo far away now. 
Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008:
“If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is a compromise.”
Robert Fritz
Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
I remember we were driving driving in your car
The speed so fast I felt like I was drunk
City lights lay out before us
And your arm felt nice wrapped round my shoulder
And I had a feeling that I belonged
And I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone
The speed so fast I felt like I was drunk
City lights lay out before us
And your arm felt nice wrapped round my shoulder
And I had a feeling that I belonged
And I had a feeling I could be someone, be someone, be someone
—Tracy Chapman, “Fast Car”
