I Heart The Weepies

Stumbled upon a reference to The Weepies while surfing blogs today.

Currently listening to the new album, Hideaway, available on iTunes.

LOVE IT! * o

I Heart The Weepies

Mandala

The snail reminding me to slow down, and stay close to center.

The tree, reminding me to stay grounded. * o

Mandala

Standing.....ready to go in

Despite an onslaught of wet weather I managed to walk the labyrinth three times over the weekend. Each time, it took until I reached center to unwind my mind. The twists, the turns, getting closer to center and then further away were physical metaphors of my life's journey and my spiritual one. Sometimes, I felt like I'd never get to the center. Once, I got to center quickly and then walking out it seemed to take forever.

At center, I felt grounded and peaceful. I wanted to spend a long time in the center, but there was always a time issue or a weather issue and I felt like I needed to leave. Again, much like my life - I want to spend more time centered by there is always something else needing to be done, someplace else I need to go to.

Around me the birds sang, the squirrels squawked and the trees rustled. I found the most beautiful snails along the path - beige/brown shells that spiraled and wound themselves tight to center. They were probably out enjoying the damp bark of the path and the wet weather because on the last morning, when it was drier, I didn't see any.

Grounded and strengthened. God is good. * o

Standing.....ready to go in

The Labyrinth

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The Labyrinth

Her Dreams Are Brewing

When I was talking with my spiritual director this weekend, I was going on about how I have all these things I want to do creatively and spiritually and that I was unsure of what I was supposed to be doing and what direction I wanted to head in next.

She encouraged me to recognize that I was in an "in-between" place at the moment, a transition, and to be comfortable in this place. To rest in my creativity.

And then she said she had this image of a large pot, or cauldron. Mixing it all together and brewing up what's next.

This weekend, I will be walking the labyrinth and wondering what it is that I will bring in and what I will choose to take out.

Mixed-media acrylic - "Her Dreams Are Brewing" - Apr 2008 * o

Her Dreams Are Brewing

Dancing Labyrinth Spirit Dolls

Created these with polymer clay, to honor my upcoming labyrinth retreat this weekend, hosted by the Sisters of St. John.

I'm excited about getting to walk a labyrinth again, and just spending some time with the Sisters - something I've been looking forward to for a long time.

Hopefully, I'll have some pictures to share when I get back. The weather forecast is calling for rain (ugh). * o

Dancing Labyrinth Spirit Dolls

Spirit Box

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Spirit Box

It is Finished

My collage for the Nouwen course.

I am the prodigal daughter and the elder daughter, journeying home to the Father's welcoming embrace. * o

It is Finished

Playing with Clay

Spent the afternoon playing with some Sculpey clay, making faces and tiles for future projects. It was a lot of fun.

We've had a quiet weekend, John and I. Oldest son not home from college yet, and youngest one off spending a weekend in a VeryBigCity across the border. It's the quietest the house will be for a few months now.

Spent a little bit of time in the cottage yesterday, straightening things around in hopes of soon working out there again once the weather warms up. Spring is coming, albeit slowly. Too early yet to move my paints out there, but soon I should be able to start doing some work in there. I can't wait to have my own space again! * o

Playing with Clay

Note Cards and Collages

Got my note cards completed this weekend for the Artella Note Card swap. This was a fun and easy project to participate in. Just have to pop my cards in the mail tomorrow and wait for my swap cards to arrive!

Also spent the better part of the weekend working on my collage for my final project for the Henri Nouwen course. I've decided to work with Nouwen's book, "The Return of the Prodigal Son" based on his reflections on Rembrandt's painting and the parable. There was so much in that book that spoke to me and had me examining how I've been the prodigal and how I've been the elder and what it means to be the "Beloved" - the child welcomed home. (Speaking of the spiritual home here, of course ).

Here's a sneak peak at the collage in progress. I'll post the final piece when it is complete.


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Note Cards and Collages

New Song

She sings a new song,

gives lift to a new dance,

notes inscribed on her heart,

give hope another chance.

* o

New Song

Little bits of the end of March

Take the whole kit
with the caboodle
Experience life
don't deplore it
Shake hands with time
don't kill it
Open a lookout
Dance on a brink
Run with your wildfire
You are closer to glory
leaping an abyss
than upholstering a rut

~ James Broughton ~

(Little Sermons of the Big Joy)

I got totally inspired for the above collage from Kelly Rae Roberts article in the latest Cloth Paper Scissors issue. Actually I got inspired by a lot of things and I have no idea why I never thought to check it out before!

Got Teesha Moore's latest Art & Life issue today in the mail so I'll be pouring over that the next few days. Such a visual feast and it always makes me want to grab my journal, paint and play. (....There's a little piece of Teesha in the above collage...)

April will find me busy trying to complete my integration project for my Henri Nouwen course. I've been immersed in Nouwen's writings for two months now and have enjoyed every moment of it. My final project is going to be a collage, but I won't post the details until it is complete (surprise!). There is so much flying around in my head for it right now, I hope it translates OK from head to canvass.

Currently listening to Susan Lincoln's "Mother Heart" CD - beautiful.

Waiting for spring.....

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Little bits of the end of March

Clowning Around Newsletter

My friend Zura is putting out a weekly newsletter called "Clowning Around", on the subject of journaling and art journaling.

You can read about it at Zura's website and sign up for it here.

When you sign up, you'll receive a free"Journal Prompt Cards" e-book, full of great journal prompts and tips. * o

Clowning Around Newsletter

Bloom

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Bloom

Blossom

Sometimes when I set out to create a SoulCollage card it turns out quite differently than what I expected. Like this one. I sat down with magazines around me, flipping through for images, intent on creating a card that reflected a phrase I had been meditating on - "I am the glory of God".

I ended up going in a slightly different direction. I'm still not sure exactly what this card is trying to reflect. I've thought of the seasons - winter turning to spring; of the cycle of life - birth, death, renewal; and finally of "blossoming". Blossoming or birthing the crone (although I am not quite near crone phase in my life).

Today I got my copy of Christine's latest reflective art journal "What is Blossoming Within You" and I read the following which ties in so well to this card I had been working on:

"There is a playfulness and spontaneity to the season of spring, that invites us to join this joyful abandon. We are called to both listen deeply to the blossoming within ourselves as well as to forget ourselves - setting aside all of our seriousness about what we are called to do and simply enter the space of being." What is Blossoming Within You? Christine Valters Paintner, PhD

What are you longing to give birth to as spring approaches? * o

Blossom

Tulips

Just a simple little bouquet. A little under $4 from the Big City Store. Not much really, but they look so cheery on my kitchen sink that I can't help but look at them and long for spring.

Sometimes it's the little things that get you through the days.

Lent is almost over, Easter is coming. Winter is almost over, spring is coming. Death, rebirth, renewal - and the wheel turns on another season. * o

Tulips

Silence

Come,
pray with open hands,
emptied and willing to receive.
Uncurl and unclench fists - let
go of all you are clinging to,
hang on to nothing.

You have nothing to offer
and everything to receive.
Be willing to be empty and choice less.

You have made it to here - you do
not need to worry about anywhere else.

I wrote the above at a silent retreat yesterday, in response to the question "What does God want me to let go of?". The day of silence was so very welcoming and refreshing to me. I have been exhausted by words and talking lately, and was definitely ready to enter a room and not have to make small talk. All that was required of me was that I sit and listen.

While eating lunch in silence with about 40 or so others, I thought silence is such a great equalizer. Without listening to anyone speak, I made no judgments or impressions about anyone else in the room. I wasn't basing my likes or dislikes on something someone was saying. Everyone was the same without words. Silence is very communal.

The other great joy of my day yesterday was the opportunity to meet with Sister Elizabeth (SSJD), my Associate Director. We only had about twenty minutes to chat, but it was an opportunity to connect, and for me to get some wonderful advice and affirmation. God is good. * o

Silence

Interesting

You’re St. Melito of Sardis! You have a great love of history and liturgy. You’re attached to the traditions of the ancients, yet you recognize that the old world — great as it was — is passing away. You are loyal to the customs of your family, though you do not hesitate to call family members to account for their sins. Find out which Church Father you are at The Way of the Fathers!

I get the love of history and liturgy. Not too sure about the "accounting family members for their sins" thing.......

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Interesting

Candlemas Blessings

Garden of Renewal
May you enter your soul garden today
and find that winter's cold is not quite as cold.
Maybe we don't feel it yet, as old ideas do linger.
But Spring has called her maidens,
I can hear them chanting today. Listen...
Her paper white narcissus are blooming
right next to the red poinsetta.
And the flowers are sending out their messages:
forgive...try again...move forward...life comes...
death comes...find new life...joy is dawning.
Turn the garden beds of your mind.
With a bright pitchfork. The pile may be deep.
It may be hard ground. It may be murky.
Surely it is compost for the new flowers.
Do with it what we must do with compost.
Use it to nurture new life.
Don't leave it in a pile in the corner
where no one wants to go.
If you look, you will see that nasturtiums are
growing amongst the dank.
They sing...
You can grow anywhere you are planted.
The robins, who live by the hundreds in your garden
red breasted and full of spark
are singing songs of renewal. Of letting go.
Of holding onto only what is needed.
Things have happened that make us sad,
uncomfortable, doubting and in anger too.
Pick up a few stones, and for each one say a prayer
for the hard things you have witnessed.
And place them at the gardens edge - organized - so
they do not take up too much space.
Turn that earth over and over. Smell the fresh soil.
Then get your seeds ready.
Begin planting and saying new prayers. Intentions.
Hopes. Dreams. Visions. Creations.
See the flowers bloom in your mind.
Tiny worms travel in twos like veins beneath the earth skin.
Making space for your seeds and sprouts.
Creating a great exhale for your garden,
she welcomes your new thought seeds
and the wild seeds all over the garden of the soul.
Even though our challenges will persist
(they always do)
We can choose day by day bliss and beauty.
We have to in order to survive. So choose.
It has been a long day in the garden,
and it is time to go into the kitchen now.
Turn on the tea kettle and light three candles.
One for yesterday and one for today and one for tomorrow.
Write in your journal.
Weave your shawl.
Make a pot of medicine soup.
Pick up your guitar.
This is the time of renewal.
And it belongs to you.
Amen
Shiloh Sophia McCloud © 2008

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Candlemas Blessings

Chalice Prayer

Prayer of the Chalice

Father, to thee I raise my whole being
a vessel emptied of self. Accept
Lord, this my emptiness, and so fill
me with Thyself - Thy light, Thy
love, They life - that these Thy
precious gifts may radiate
through me and overflow the
chalice of my heart into the
hearts of all with whom I
come in contact this day
revealing unto them
the beauty of
Thy joy
and
wholeness
and
the
serenity
of Thy peace
which nothing can destroy

Source: Diocese of Florida website

image: Chalice Prayer, mixed-media collage, Jan 2008

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Chalice Prayer

Mid-Winter Blahs

This week’s blog topic at Artella is heroes . Specifically, who is your hero and why. This morning I was thinking that right now, my hero is anyone who can work a full day’s work, come home and find time to create some art, or write some poetry, or exercise, or stretch their body. The mid-winter blahs have officially hit me, like they do every winter, and I have zip energy left for anything at the end of the day. See, my body is somehow primitively wired back to those ancient days of hibernation. Days without artificial light, TV, computers or other stimulus to keep you going long after the sun has gone down. Days when the darkness came, you hunkered down in your cave or cabin or whatever, threw another log on the fire and rested. You slept, you dreamt of warmer days, and you waited for the light to return. You worked when it was daylight, and you rested when it was dark. You only moved in the darkness to keep the fire going. That’s where my body is at. Instead, my body lives in modern times. Times when everyone’s mantra seems to be “how can I do more?” I get up in darkness, go to work and spend the day under artificial lighting, go home in darkness and try to accomplish more things in a day then can be accomplished. Sooner or later, the body wins. It must have its rest. “Resistance is futile” it says, in its best Star Trek Borg voice. So forgive, if I post not much these days, or create much, or have the energy to respond to an email. My body is craving primordial hibernation and it’s starting to win the battle. And so I ask, is it not more “heroic” to listen to the body’s needs, rest when it is craving it, and return to fight the creative battle another day? Wishing you sweet winter dreams and time to hibernate, however that looks for you. Spring will return eventually. * o

Mid-Winter Blahs

Winter Wonderland

Last week, winter arrived with a "wall of snow" - yup, that's how they described it in the winter storm warning on the Environment Canada website. Winter storm watch in effect, a wall of snow moving in across Lake Superior. Wall of snow! Sounds terrifying doesn't it? I mean I was picturing this huge, white wall rushing down the Trans-Canada highway pushing away every thing in its path.

Of course, it didn't come as a wall but a heck of a lot of snow fell in a couple of days and we went from no winter to total winter overnight. It's officially here.

So is December, so is Advent. I don't know if it's because my kitchen is still not yet complete and I'm counting the days down until it is, but I seem to be acutely aware of how rapidly Christmas is coming. There are still presents to be wrapped and mailed, don't even ask me about the Christmas cards yet, and forget decorating. We can't put the tree up until the fridge is out of the livingroom anyway :)

This morning on the way to work I had one of those moments when time froze for just a second. The sun was coming up over the mountains, a beautiful orange glow spreading across the sky, the pine trees wore dresses of white, and the sky was that clear, light winter blue it is this time of year. It was awesome and I breathed it in, grateful that I live in such a beautiful country. Thankful that I'm warm and well fed and that I have a kitchen (even if it is in a mess) when so many don't * o

Winter Wonderland

Best Christmas Countdown

Sara, at Going Jesus has the best way to countdown the days until Christmas - the Cavalcade of Bad Nativities!

Check out It Came Upon a Midnight Weird - it's more fun than chocolate and better for you too!

Of course it's early yet, but my favorite so far is the Leprechaun nativity. * o

Best Christmas Countdown

Embracing Soul

"When you listen with your soul, you come into rhythm and unity with the music of the universe."
- John O'Donohue


"Embracing Soul" - art journal collage, Nov 2007

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Embracing Soul

Speak Gently in Silence

Dear God,
Speak gently in my silence.
When the loud outer noises of my surroundings
and the loud inner noises of my fears
keep pulling me away from you,
help me to trust that you are still there
even when I am unable to hear you.
Give me ears to listen to your small, soft voice saying:
"Come to me, you who are overburdened,
and I will give you rest....
for I am gentle and humble of heart."
Let that loving voice be my guide.
Amen.
- Henri Nouwen, With Open Hands * o

Speak Gently in Silence

Imagine a Woman - Journal Entry

This is the page I did in my journal for Zura's "Imagine a Woman" weekly journal prompt.

Imagine freeing yourself of the stories you carry around with you that do not belong to you, but are someone else's baggage. Imagine owning what is yours and letting go of the rest.

Knowing our stories helps us to understand ourselves. Knowing another person's story helps us to understand them. * o

Imagine a Woman - Journal Entry

My Gots a New Floor

When my youngest son was very little, he used to refer to himself as "my". As in, "my want", "my like", "my said"....etc. Very cute :)
So, in that spirit, I'm very excited to report that "my got a new floor". In my bedroom. No more old linoleum, with metal strips holding it together, that looked so ugly and never looked clean. and that I've managed to live with for that last 20 years.

My new floor is beautiful, and clean and makes my bedroom feel so much more restful. With many thanks to my hubby for putting it in. * o

My Gots a New Floor

Imagine a Woman

My friend and awesome art journaler Zura is doing a weekly series of prompts based on the book "Imagine a Woman in Love with Herself" by Patricia Lynn Reilly.

You can read the first of the prompts here.

This is a great way to do some journaling, maybe a collage, maybe your own poem - based on the week's prompts. Zura will be posting each Sunday, so be sure to keep checking. And if you do end up doing some journaling around it, be sure and let Zura know! * o

Imagine a Woman

A Psalm of Signs

Frustrated, I plunked myself
down on the couch
and cried out,
"Lord, I asked for a sign.
For you to show me something
on my walk,
something that would assure me
you were there and you cared.
And what do I get?
Nothing. Where were you, Lord?"

And softly the Lord replied,

"My beloved child,
I warmed your face with sunshine,
and sent a soft breeze to caress you.
I dipped my paintbrush in lush paints
of crimson yellow and fire red
and oh so carefully painted each leaf
for you.
With the same paintbrush, I
colored the sky in more shades of
blue than an artist could begin to capture.
I perfumed the air with an earthy, woodsy
scent hinting of decaying leaves and moss.
I scattered a thousand shimmering rays
of sunlight to dance upon the water,
more dazzling than any display in a
jeweler's window.
I sang to you , with the songs of chickadees,
ravens and gulls,
while poplar leaves in golden gowns shimmied
and swayed to the breeze.
I sponge-painted perfectly designed circles
of moss on the boulders and
I whispered words of comfort on the wind.

Signs? My beloved child, I placed them
all around you.
I can not help that you chose to walk
with eyes closed."

@Eveline Maedel - 2007 * o

A Psalm of Signs

Playing with Wax

I managed to get some beeswax a couple of weekends ago, and since then have done a couple of collages. Working with the wax is both easy and difficult at the same time - I think because instead of using a travel iron like most of the directions suggest, I am using my own iron covered in tinfoil and I'm not quite getting the smoothness I need.



The second collage is a bit of tribute to my kitchen - soon to be remodeled after many long years! * o

Playing with Wax

Poetry and Prayer

Christine at Abbey of the Arts shared this poem a couple of weeks ago. It was speaking to me this morning and I wanted to share it again.

Forget Everything
By John Squadra

If someone says, "To be enlightened you must
fast and pray all night,"
Have dinner and go to bed.
If you see a sign, "This way to salvation,"
run the other way.
If someone says, "This book is the truth,
you can buy it from me,"
Take your money and buy grapes and roses.
If someone says, "He's talking tonight,
thousands will be saved."

Go for a walk...listen to the birds
and watch the clouds, and leave
your backpack, your Bible and your Buddha
under a tree and hope
they will be gone when you return.
Where we are going you can't carry anything,
not even your name.
If there is logic in the above,
be afraid, it's a lie.

But if you feel something in your chest
as beautiful as the grass beneath your feet,
be grateful...open your arms
and forget everything
you ever thought you knew.

Source: This Ecstasy

(image: altoid tin shrine I made this summer) * o

Poetry and Prayer

OK, Maybe a Tad Irreverant?

Most people beginning a time of discernment, would probably mark the occasion with a new bible, or maybe a prayer book or rosary. But not this chick. I got me a Bobblehead Jesus!

Why, you ask? (if you're still reading). Because, I have a wacked sense of humour and also because sometimes I just take myself a little bit too seriously. Ole' BJ here is reminder to lighten up.

When I'm getting all in pious, serious "oh look at me" mode, I just have to ask myself, "WWBJD?" (or What Would Bobblehead Jesus Do?) Just one nod from that head and I'll be smiling again.

To everything a season. There's a time to be serious, and a time to lighten up. * o

OK, Maybe a Tad Irreverant?

Discernment

Today marks the beginning of a year long period of discernment for me. A time to pray, listen and try to decide if I am called to be an Associate of the Sisters of St. John the Divine.

It'll be a time for me to develop and follow a Rule of Life, and to deepen my prayer life.

A year can seem like a long time but I am glad that it is a year. Too often I make impulsive decisions, or I think I want to do something that turns out later to not be so great. We all do.

Discernment gives me an opportunity to slow down, to not rush in and to really try and listen for God's voice. My greatest struggle will be the daily commitment to prayer and to making time for it. In a year, I will know whether or not I am capable of that type of commitment. I will also, hopefully, have learned the value in slowing down and not making hasty decisions.

When have there been periods of discernment in your life? What was the jewel or lesson you learned from that time of discernment?

(image - my window altar at Stonesthrow) * o

Discernment

Dreaming of Beeswax

I've got the creative itch to do a collage in beeswax - a technique I haven't tried yet. I've got the idea, know what I want to put on it and am antsy to try it. So what's stopping me? Lack of beeswax. See, in my small town you can't just run to the local craft store and buy whatever. Now there are plenty of people here who will tell you to "mind your own beeswax" and several more who can't resist the urge to stick their nose in to your beeswax, but actual, authentic beeswax is not to be found. And so I will have to hold off until I can make the next trip to the Big City to stock up on supplies..(sigh). Until then, I'm dreaming of beeswax. * o

Dreaming of Beeswax

Spirituality vs Religion

One of the questions in my course this week was "Is spirituality different from religion and if so how?"

My answer is yes. To me religion is more like a practice, or set of practices. It has specific rules, rituals and it's own hierarchy. Spirituality on the other hand is more of a relationship.

To put it another way, spirituality is like breathing. Religion might define how, when and where I breathe but it is spirituality that is the breath.

How do you define spirituality and religion? Are they one and the same for you?

(image - my first Zentangle - created Sep 19/07) * o

Spirituality vs Religion

Frost and Pumpkin Barf

Saturday morning we were hit with the first heavy frost of fall. A frost that finished off the marigolds in front of the cottage, and the Himalayan Impatiens in the yard. Hubby spent the afternoon pulling them up and tidying the yard. The first of the preparations for winter. Already. Sigh, I'm so not ready for it.

The painting project continued into this weekend. Teenage Boy wanted his room painted orange, and orange he got. It looks like a pumpkin threw up in there but he says he likes it. He better - I'm not painting it again for a long time. I have bedroom number two to paint next, but that will have to wait a couple of weekends. I need a break.

Creatively I've become hooked on doodling, specifically the Zentangle type of doodling. I've fallen in love with my Uniball fine black pen and I use it to scratch doodles over all my journal pages. Even my calendar at work. I'm insane.

My course on Spirituality and Family relationships starts this week. I'm looking forward to a morning routine of reading and journaling as I work my way through it.

Autumn is always so full, and I said I was going to release something didn't I?

* o

Frost and Pumpkin Barf

Autumn's Release

I just received my copy today of "Praying with the Elements" a beautiful little book created by Christine Valters Paintner, at Abbey of the Arts. It's full of scripture, snippets of poetry, thoughtful reflections and stunning photos and I highly recommend it.

While flipping through it at lunch time I was caught by this quote:

"This earth we are riding keeps trying to tell us something with it's continuous scripture of leaves." - William Stafford

Maybe it's because it is the fall season that this quote stood out for me. Christine writes, "I love the image of the scripture of leaves that Stafford offers - what if we were to consider the changing trees as sacred text where the Holy One is revealed to us in new ways each season? What if we followed the invitation of each season - spring's emerging, summer's fullness, autumn's release, and winter's rest?"

What indeed. Kind of makes you pause a moment and really look at the landscape as you are rushing out the door in the afternoon. And "autumn's release" - what am I releasing? I always seem to take on so much more in the fall, and I know it drains my energy until I long for winter's rest.

This weekend I'll be spending time reflecting on creating a Rule of Life, and I know I'll be looking at what I need to release this autumn. And I hope the cold, wet weather we'v been experiencing lately subsides for awhile so I can get outside and read the scripture of leaves.

Photo: Night Sky - Sault. Ste Marie, Michigan - taken by Charlie Maedel * o

Autumn's Release

Farewell Purple Octopus

With his brother happily off to college, Teenage Boy/Man has decided he wants to move into his old room, since it is just slightly larger than the one he occupies now. TBM has also decided he wants his room painted in "Lush Orange" with "Mango Tango" trim.

This has meant a weekend for me spent putting on a couple of coats of primer and preparing the room. Years ago when College Boy was much younger, in a burst of creativity I painted his room with an Under-the-Sea theme that included a giant purple octopus. Thought it was a great idea at the time, but obviously I was not thinking too far into the future to the time when I would have to somehow paint over and get rid of that octopus.

In all fairness to him, College Boy outgrew that purple octopus years ago, but I have not had the time or opportunity to paint that room until he moved out of it.

And so, after three coats of tinted primer we bid farewell to Mr. Purple Octopus, and all things "little boy like" and we get ready to say hello to Mango Tango and the last of the teen years. * o

Farewell Purple Octopus

Taking the Boy to College

His stuff is all packed, though his room still looks like a cyclone hit it. This morning we are piling it all into the truck and heading down to another city where he'll start college next week. Road trip! College tour! A busy weekend.

Hard to believe we're at this stage. Boy/Man has grown so fast. And Teenage Boy starts high school next week. This morning I am the beaming, proud mom. Proud of how they have grown, awed by the young adults they are turning into, and a little in shock at how quickly time has flown.

Time for breakfast, and then we'll load up and head off. He's heading out for new adventures! * o

Taking the Boy to College

How Then Shall I Pray

"Prayer too moves in rhythms, ups and downs." Inviting the Mystic, Supporting the Prophet (Dyckman/Carroll)

I've been thinking about prayer a lot lately. How do I pray, what are the ways to pray, and even why pray are just some of the things floating through my mind. I know there is no right or wrong way to pray, and that prayer is as unique as each person's relationship to God. Prayer deepens that relationship. Do I spend enough time in prayer? I guess that depends on the definition of prayer. If prayer is solely being down on your knees, hands folded, eyes closed and having a sort of one-way conversation with the Divine, then no, I don't spend a lot of time in prayer.

How then are the ways in which I pray?

• in church - both in corporate, liturgical prayer and private prayer
• intercession - quick prayers ushered up for someones safety, health or comfort
• gratitude - a few moments in thanks for safe journeys, health restored or the beauty of the day
• creative - by what I create, how I express my relationship to God in art, sometimes in a more abstract form like a collage and other times in something more concrete like this prayer wheel
• journaling - writing prayers, writing out problems, working through my spiritual crisis in writing
• the Jesus prayer - often repeated at night, in bed, to calm a rattling mind and invite God's comforting presence
• meditation

Even after writing that list I feel a desire to deepen my prayer life, to move beyond the routine and yet how?

"The continued realization that prayer is gift, something God does in us, not something we do ourselves, frees us to relax, take the pressure off ourselves and wait, allowing God to come as he wills." Inviting the Mystic, Supporting the Prophet

Ya, that's it. Invite God's presence into every thing I do, not just five minutes of "prayer time". * o

How Then Shall I Pray

Journal Prompt Cards

Life in the cottage has been awesomely creative, so I thought I'd share some of the journal prompt cards I've been working on.

I'm altering a deck of playing cards, painting them, gluing on images and writing the prompts over top.

Images and prompts all inspired by Zura's e-class on creating journal cards.

Could someone contact the time fairy and slow things down a bit? Summer is going by way too fast for me... * o

Journal Prompt Cards

The 5.75 Questions

Michael Bungay Stanier has a great new video, "The 5.75 Questions You've Been Avoiding". Not only are the questions thought provoking, the clip is cartoony, funky and fun to watch. Michael is also offering a free e-course on the 5 questions, so check it out and sign up! * o

The 5.75 Questions

Soul Collage - Past Hurts

I am the one who stands in the doorway of past hurts.
I am the one who looks back in regret.
I am the one who wants to move forward and let go.

When I look at this card I am reminded of all the times I try to let go, but I don't and I let it stand in the doorway blocking my way to moving forward.

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Soul Collage - Past Hurts

The Shed has its own blog!

Having recently joined the staff at Artella, I've also got a new blog there which I've entitled "Stonesthrow Cottage - Musing and ramblings from my backyard" so I will be posting there from time to time. * o

The Shed has its own blog!

A Room of Her Own

For a long time now I have dreamed of a space of my own - a place to write, read, create, dream. A space where I could spread out, and not have to pack everything up that I was working on. I've tried to create this in my house, but there were really no extra rooms and the basement just didn't have the right atmosphere. I began to dream of a little shed, a garden retreat, in my own backyard. And while I allowed myself to fantasize about this place and decorate it in my mind, even going so far as to give it a name, I never gave much thought to it becoming a reality. An outbuilding seemed too expensive to buy or build. It was just a little dream.

Last month, at an auction, my husband purchased a small 8 x 9 shed and had it moved into our backyard. He's painted it, built a deck for it and put on a screen door. "Stonesthrow Cottage", my dream, has become a reality. I have space to create, to unwind, to dream or to play. And it really is the perfect space.

In the process of looking up ideas for this building, I discovered a whole world out there of people who work from little backyard sheds or shacks, appropriately named "shedworkers". They even have their own blog.

Should you be stopping by on a summer evening, you'll find me at Stonesthrow - the perfect place to have a cup of tea, a long chat, and to sit and dream. * o

A Room of Her Own

Ordinary Holiness

"the ordinary events of daily life become our practice...the routine of daily life is the path to holiness for lay folks"

-Father Thomas Keating - Open Mind, Open Heart

So often we search for holiness outside of ourselves - in some sacred place, in ritual, in worship, in a person or in a denomination. Can it really be so basic that the path to holiness is the repeated routine of my every day life - the waking, stretching, journaling, reading, eating, working, gardening, emailing, blogging, idling, sleeping routine of every single day? If so, then every day, every breath, every movement is sacred.

(photo: Therese rose, Charlie Maedel - June 2007)

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Ordinary Holiness

On turning 43

Art journal collage entry I created today in honor of my birthday.

Art inspired by Violette.

Words (which are hard to see in the image because the scan did not turn out so well...) inspired by this quote from Rainer Maria Rilke:

"You are indeed carrying within yourself the potential to visualize, to design, and to create an utterly satisfying, joyful and pure lifestyle."

(the page looks a lot brighter than it turned out in the scan) * o

On turning 43

Journal Prompts

When you are stuck in your journaling, or just in a rut, journal prompts are an effective tool to get you "over the hump".

Zura Ledbetter has designed a 12 week e-course that teaches you how to create your own set of journaling prompt cards using techniques such as collage, drawing and painting. The course includes writing prompts, how-to's, images to use and a yahoo group to share with.

So instead of dishing out money for a book of writing prompts, or buying a deck of journal cards, tap into your own creative energy and wisdom and make your personalized deck of prompts this summer.

Course starts July 1 and details can be found here. * o

Journal Prompts

Lunas continued

Art Journal entry after discovering the luna moth on my walk.

"She dances in beautiful green shimmers, as mysterious as the moon, on silken wings." * o

Lunas continued

La Luna

It's been one of those weird kind of days - not really strange, but slightly odd or off. Lots of electrical storms, heavy rains, power surges, and computers doing strange things.

On our walk this afternoon, we spied a Luna moth on the side of the road. I think he may have been near the end of his week of life, or injured because he was just lying on the road, letting the wind push him along. Such brilliant green wings I have never seen.

It was such a small gift of beauty in an otherwise odd day.




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La Luna

True Rest

I opened my little book on Centering Prayer, from the Contemplative Outreach program, to these words this evening:

Resting in God comes from the Sabbath. Sabbath is time consecrated with our attention, our surrender, honoring those quiet forces of grace and spirit that sustain and heal us.

I don't often take time for Sabbath, at least not true Sabbath. Weekends come with their own chores and demands, and although the pace is different than during the week, and there's usually a Sunday morning church service involved, I don't know if I can honestly say its time "honoring those quiet forces of grace and spirit". It's still just busy time.

On her blog, and in a recent tele-call, Jennifer Louden asked "What is true rest for you?" Excellent question because I believe most of us, especially women, don't really know what true rest looks and feels like and I believe that's a great source of stress for us.

So I've been spending some time contemplating this weekend on what true rest feels like for me. Here's some of what I think it is:

• sinking down into the mat in corpse pose after spending an hour stretching my body, and feeling how delicious it is to lay there completely relaxed
• eating when I feel hungry and not having to cook for anyone
• a really hot bath, followed by pampering myself with a favorite body lotion
• listening to music with my eyes closed and letting my mind wander

I think once you get going on this, you can really tune in, be creative and start listening to just what it is your body is asking for.

For true, true rest - I'm currently studying my cat. Cats have got true rest down to a fine art. Find a piece of sunshine, plunk yourself in it, stretch and have a nap. What more could there be?

What is true rest for you? * o

True Rest

Sacred Space Continued

"The garden heals. We hear these words and recognize they are true. Those of us who garden see what we do as creating a sanctuary from the forces of darkness, within and without. A haven of serenity, a respite from the noisy civilization around us."

Marjorie Harris, The Healing Garden

The sun shone this afternoon and butterflies danced around the yard. Lots of them too. It was a good afternoon to paint this old bench and transform this wall by the garage into a patch of sacred space. The bench is a good place to sit in the evenings, with a cup of tea, and to close ones eyes and listen to bubbling fountain. The cedar shrubs offer a bit of seclusion without completing blocking the view of the rest of the yard.


Fortunately, I got the painting done before the black clouds covered the sky and the heavens opened up to a cool, refreshing shower. Fifteen minutes and the sun was out again.

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Sacred Space Continued

Sacred Space

"We transform our gardens and yards into sacred space when we understand them as places of growth not only for plants and trees but for our inner selves." - Spiritual Gardening, Peg Streep

I spend too much time sometime indoors, surrounding myself with draining energies of computer and office lights. I forget how soul-restoring it can be too dig deep into the earth, to plant something, to pull weeds or to sit and listen to the fountain running in the pond.

Fortunately this afternoon I had a chance to rediscover that while planting the tomatoe plants and the rest of the bedding plants for the garden. The tomatoe plants are usually my husband's domain, but I thought I'd surprise him while he's away this weekend and get them in for him.

So for an hour I puttered in our little back garden, digging into the black earth, inhaling deeply the scent of tomatoe plants, and listening to the starling squawk at me from the garage roof protecting some nearby nest. The sun beat down and an occasional light breeze offered some respite from the heat.

"The garden can become a place where we can restore our emotional and spiritual balance and nourish our senses and souls, away from the noise of everyday life" - Spiritual Gardening, Peg Streep

It's been a stressful and somewhat mind numbing week. There are a still a million "things to be done" today and yet all I really want to do is sit outside, close my eyes and listen to the fountain bubble.

"Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow cycles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace." May Sarton * o

Sacred Space

Of Standing in line, monks, and musicals

Yesterday I stood in line for four hours, just to take part in the Canadian Antiques Roadshow. Nope, I don't have a priceless heirloom, and I didn't end up being filmed for TV, but I did see Valerie Pringle, listened to a whole lot of interesting people in line and saw some pretty interesting items. Though I like to watch the show, I wouldn't do it again. It's one of those fun-to-take-part-in once sort of things. I was exhausted by the time I got home.

On our way in to the city we saw the Walking Monk on the highway. We waved, he nodded. There's something kind of bizarre and serene at the same time about sighting a bald man in flowing orange robes walking along the Trans-Canada highway. I who find it difficult to motivate myself to walk home from work, have to admire someone who is walking across Canada as a spiritual journey. And while you may scoff at the purpose of walking meditation, I came to the conclusion that it was a lot more meaningful than standing in line for four hours to find out the gemstone in your grandmother's necklace is really just glass.

Today while cleaning the house I'm belting out the Andrew Lloyd Weber show tunes in anticipation of going to see "Jesus Christ Superstar" tomorrow night. My friend L and I saw the musical several years ago, but we're pretty excited about getting to see Ted Neely and I know it's going to be a great evening. My apologies in advance to anyone sitting in the row around us - we'll be the middle-aged women belting out the tunes and embarassing the heck of my teenage son sitting with us. ("I don't know how to loooovvvvveee him......")

All in all an interesting blend of materialistic and spiritual in one weekend. * o

Of Standing in line, monks, and musicals

Happy Freedom From Self Improvement Day!

Celebrate the wonderful person that is you!

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Happy Freedom From Self Improvement Day!

Like...bunches of really cool stuff dude...

Just wanted to share some of the neat stuff I've been coming across lately:

1) It's here! It's here! Artella 10 , "Body of Art", will soon be sent out. Check it out, the cover page is amazing - and this issue promises 12 full length "how-to" projects, a vintage ephemera kit, 35 ATC cards, a CD with downloadable free goodies, etc. etc. etc. The print version of Artella magazine is a work of art itself. So, no excuses, go there - order one now! There's a pre-order sale on, but you got to hurry up to get it.

2) The fabulous Queen of Comfort, Jennifer Louden, has come up with a spectacular idea. May 15th is Freedom From Self-Improvement Day. A day to celebrate our glorious selves, perfect just as we are. Go there, sign the declaration, get entered in a draw for lots of cool goodies! And on May 15th say to heck with the diet, the affirmations, the aerobics class and give yourself a big comforting hug, look in the mirror, and say "you are mah-vellous" in your best Billy Crystal impersonation!

3) This has got to be THE coolest journal I have seen - "Her Evolution" by Shiloh McCloud. Just got my copy yesterday and it is beautiful. I think it's the perfect coloring book for us grown up girls! It's spiral bound, with lots of blank pages for your own journaling or collaging, and those beautiful black and white drawings of Shiloh's just begging you to grab your markers or pencil crayons and color them in, or paint them, or decorate them however you wish. There is also some great inspirational writing and creativity exercises in the book. I'm looking forward to dipping into this one again and again. * o

Like...bunches of really cool stuff dude...

Yikes! I've Been Tagged!

Helen, at Straight From Hel, has tagged me for a "Thinking Blogger" award, which I think is way cool, but also kind of intimidating. It's always a bit of a secret thrill to find out there are actually people out there reading what you post, part of why we write in the first place.

The challenge now is for me to come up with "5 Blogs that Make me Think". A challenge because I think a lot of the blogs I regularly read have already been tagged with this honor - can I re-tag them? And, I really want to tag Helen back - her blog has great writing advice on it, plus I just love the catchy name!

So, here are my five:

1. Sue, at InnerDorothy, has already been tagged and she deserves it. I've been reading Sue's blog for some time now. I appreciate seeing the "church world" from someone in the clergy point of view, besides often being provoked into deep thought by one of her observations. And, her cats are adorable!

2. This one, Fran, at SacredOrdinary, is a recent discovery. There is a lovely mix of personal, spiritual and family here.

3. When I feel a need for art and creative stimulation, I check on Lani's blog. I so wish I could make puppets like she does!

4. Someone who has a wonderful mix of art and journaling and just keen observation is Keri, at wish jar journal. I go there when I want to read something unique and fresh.

5. And, finally, even though she also has already been tagged, Jennifer Louden at LoudenMouth, the Comfort Queen, has such an authentic style that she deserves to be tagged again.

So there you have it. Five blogs that make me think. Five places on the web I like to drop into and hang out at from time to time.

Thanks Helen for your link to my blog, and for tagging me with this award. I'm glad to have "met" you in cyber-land! * o

Yikes! I've Been Tagged!

Bird Watching

T.J. and I took part in a waterfowl viewing tonight down at the river. Now, I'm not much of a bird identification person. I can tell you that's a goose, and that's a pretty duck, and that's about it. So it was a good thing that there were bird experts there who graciously shared their scopes, and not only told you what duck you were looking at but pointed out it's distinguishing features. By the end of the evening I could quite confidently yell out "I see a Bufflehead!".

There were two highlights for me - a Great Blue Heron, and watching three male Goldeneyes do their mating thing for some lucky female. The sunlight was hitting the river just right then, adding that perfect touch of light so that all the features of the ducks stood out sharply right down to those golden eyes as they bobbed their heads and arched their necks backwards practically touching their backs - just trying to catch her attention. In the background, an otter swam sleekly down the river - a perfect nature moment.

My list of sightings: 2 Bald Eagles, Mallards, Pintails, Goldeneyes, Buffleheads, Common Mergansers, a Hooded Merganser, a Lesser Yellow Legs (he looked pretty goofy on his scrawny yellow legs), a Green Winged Teal, a Blue Heron, a whole lot of Canadian Geese and on Otter. * o

Bird Watching

Open Heart

Open Heart

I am the one who opens her heart in prayer and whose spirit longs to soar.
I am the one who sits in quiet, lost in the rhythmic clicking of beads.
Love builds a nest in my heart center.


A prayer attributed to St. Francis: "Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight, and give Your angels and saints charge over those who sleep. Tend Your sick ones, O Lord Christ. Rest Your weary ones. Bless Your dying ones. Soothe Your suffering ones. Pity Your afflicted ones. Shield Your jouous ones. And all for Your love's sake."

image - "Open Heart" - Soul Collage card created April, 2007

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Open Heart

If I Had One Prayer........

A prayer for people who hate. This awesome video is well worth watching:


May all be loved, may all be blessed, may all show peace. * o

If I Had One Prayer........

Transformation

Transformation

I am the one who....

...is changing herself
...seeks God
...undergoes renewal

I am the one who is transformed by love.


Breathing In....as Spirit transforms me
Breathing Out...may I transform the world

(image: Soul Collage card "Transformation" created April 2007)

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Transformation

Need a Little Breather?

Wow, April is here already. Where did March go?

I confess I have not been doing much on the creative front. I have been occupied with courses, and reading, and work while my journals and collage materials sit in a pile hoping I'll remember them and come and play again.

In the meantime, if your looking for a peaceful, beautiful meditation - a five minute breather as it were - check out this lovely movie, A Holy Splash of Time.

Many blessings to you....... * o

Need a Little Breather?