Inspire Me Monday

I'm a firm believer that inspiration is all around us each and every day.  At the same time, I realize its often difficult to *notice* all of the beauty, joy, creativity and inspiration that exists in our daily rounds.  How many of us get caught up in the minutiae, the "to-do lists" and distractions that seem to fill up our every waking hour?   We can become overwhelmed by these things easily...unless we pause to recognize there is inspiration to be found everywhere.  We just have to remember to look for it.

So as a reminder to myself to seek out that which inspires (and hopefully you too!), I'm participating in Create With Joy's inspirational blog party.

I'm Inspired By Food

I know its probably a wee bit early in the season, but this week, I've been inspired by pumpkin pie!  So much so that, I caved in and bought a Sara Lee frozen pie and plan to top it off with some whipped topping for an easy, comfort-inducing dessert this week.

I know, I know....frozen pie is not the same as whipping up a freshly baked one, but sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do.


I'm Inspired By Color


The days are definitely getting shorter now...but one thing for sure is the spectacular color palette of autumn is only just beginning to be revealed.   There's something warm and reassuring about the rustic and golden tones which dazzle us on bright October days.

{Abstract Art By Christian Hetzel}

I'm Inspired By Owls

Mie is a whimsical artist from South Africa whose blog is a lot of fun to read.  She also has been crafting these adorable, cozy owls that I can't stop smiling about.

Owls are such awesome, autumnal creatures, don't you think?

I'm Inspired By Heroes

I may be late to the party, as I've only recently discovered the tv show Heroes via Netflix.  It's such a fascinating show layered with supernatural twists, and yet, there is something very common about the "heroes" who in spite of their special powers, struggle with life issues just like the rest of us.  In a way, its their flaws that make the characters more compelling.

I also really enjoy the theme of fate that is carried out through Heroes.  I tend to be of the school of thought that believes nothing ever happens to us by coincidence.  Every event, every person we encounter has something to teach us.


What's inspiring you today?

Creatrix Of The Moment: Allison, Paper Party In The House!

In this installment of Creatrix of the Moment, allow me to introduce you to Allison: outdoor addict, thrifting aficionado, paper craft queen, dog-mom, party consultant, loving wife, and entrepreneur extraordinaire!

Allison resides in Tennessee, along with her hubby and adorable fur-baby, Bailey. When she isn't doing outreach work at the Center for Civic Engagement or spending time with her family enjoying the great outdoors, she runs a wonderfully whimsical home and party decor shop on etsy called Hoopdaloop. Allison was so very kind to participate in the Creatrix series and I invite you to read along to learn more about this savvy, fun-loving, inspiring young woman!


Everyone loves a good party! If you could be asked to consult and provide the decor for any specific theme party right now, what would the theme be and why?

I would definitely go for a wedding and reception outdoors and then under a tent for the reception with a shabby chic, rustic vibe! I mostly feature custom paper garlands in my shop, but I would start with those and dream big (but affordable)! For my own wedding, I had a similar feel and spent many hours searching thrift stores for the perfect details and now that I'm older, I have even more ideas!

Do you usually decorate your home for various holidays? What are some of your favorite personal seasonal decorations?

Yes! Last Christmas was the first Christmas I shared with my husband and I spent a lot of time thrifting to find vintage wooden ornaments for the tree. I absolutely loved how it turned out! (Getting the idea that I dig thrift stores?!)


What is the difference between bunting and traditional paper garlands?

Well when people think of bunting, they probably think of fabric, but paper garlands are obviously made of paper. I love bunting, but I also love the versatility of paper garlands. For instance, I was consulting with a bride this past week on her wedding decor (that I am doing!) and was giving her a lot of ideas on how to decorate with her paper garlands. I loved the idea of taking large sticks or branches (think thin branches towards the ends of a tree limb) and putting them in a vase of jar and then draping paper garland over the limbs. You can't really do that with traditional bunting. This is also a great tactic for decorating Christmas trees!

Where do you find inspirations for the colors and patterns you use in your designs?

I have always been naturally drawn to colors. I think my brain unconsciously absorbs color palettes wherever I am whether it be shopping for clothes or taking a hike. I definitely love wild and crazy color combinations and natural hues. I spend a lot of time outdoors so it is definitely inspiring!

What do you love most about your work at the Outreach Center? What do you love most about creating items in your party decor shop?

I love working with kids and teaching them that they have a voice in their schools, communities, and world at large. For my shop, I love working with customers! I do lots of custom orders and my customers always have such great ideas and excited to make their event whether it be a family get together or a wedding special and unique.

Please share your philosophy or thoughts on your particular "creative process". What one thing about creativity/being creative in general holds true for you?

People often limit creativity to "art" or "crafts" and may not think themselves particularly artistically inclined. But creativity is used and can and should be used in so many ways! A great meal, a fun date, an imaginary game with your kids, the way you arrange your furniture or even just your pillows, making something instead of buying it, going on a walk and noticing the shapes of the trees... so many ways. I think creativity is something we should all intentionally foster in our lives and others. For me, I have an Etsy shop and a blog which are obvious outward expressions of my creativity, but I also love to look at the shapes of leaves, cook a good meal, or create crazy imaginary worlds with kids.


If you were to describe your personality in terms of a color, what color would you be and why?



Can I cheat and describe myself as one of my multicolor garlands? This means I choose a mixture of colors bright neons and neutrals and primaries and on and on. I don't think I am consistently just one color. Some days I'm chill and relaxed like a blue, other days I'm a hot pink, ready to get some stuff done! and so on and so on. I will say though that my favorite color is blue! Pretty much any shade!


Tell us what you enjoy doing when you're not working.

Being outside! I grew up on a farm out in the country and spent most days outside playing when I wasn't in school. Even when it rained, I would head outside to do a rain dance :) Out in the country, out in nature... that's where my heart is. I like being outside best when my husband and pup are outside. I also love spending time with my family and friends, reading, and learning new things.



What two or three traits or abilities do you feel are crucial for any business owner or entrepreneur?

Dedication- because it's a lot of work and not always easy. Ingenuity- a lot of times you have to do the best with what you have and know to succeed. Love- you really have to have a passion and love for what you are doing. If you don't, you will probably burn out and even if you don't it won't be worth it.

Not only is Allison a most gracious interviewee, she also is a generous soul. She has kindly offered a coupon for 15% off the total purchase for any items in her store for the readers of this blog. Simply enter the coupon code mizcreatixrox to apply for your discount at her store, Hoopdaloop.

Thank you to Allison, for taking the time to share and for being an inspiring example of what a being a Creatrix is all about!

Be sure to also check out Allison's blog, A Girl and Her Scout as well as her Facebook and Pinterest pages.

Musing Monday: Audio Books, I Hardly Knew Ye...

Miz B over at Should Be Reading hosts a fun weekly blog event revolving around the wonderful world of books and reading. I've been making a serious effort to get back on the book-reading wagon over the past few months, and so far, I'm kinda proud of my progress. So...in an attempt to draw out the dusty, dormant bibliophile within, I thought it would be cool to start participating in these memes.

Today's topic:

Do you listen to audiobooks? Why, or why not?

For the life of me, I just cannot get into books on tape. I have tried on several occasions in the past, but to no avail. The first time I ventured into the realm of audio books, I borrowed one of the Patricia Cornwell novels in the Kay Scarpetta series. I thought it was an excellent selection in which to break my audio book cherry-y'know....murder-mystery, strong, smart female detective heroine--all the stuff that makes for an intense, gripping read.

Yeah, so I totally fell asleep within the first half hour of listening.

I even gave it another shot the next day. Same results. I thought maybe it was the novel itself...but I'd read other Cornwell books the old fashioned way and hadn't found myself bored by any means. But I didn't want to give up so quickly. I wondered if perhaps it was the *way* in which I was taking in the audiobook. Maybe lying on my bed while the book played on my headphone set was just asking for trouble.

Next time I would be wiser.

I tried an Amy Tan (The Kitchen God's Wife) novel for my second book-on-tape experiment. And this time, I put the tape on my stereo while I was cleaning my house. I figured, I hate house cleaning, but maybe by having an audio book playing while I was participating in my least favorite chores, I would be distracted enough so I wouldn't realize I was cleaning in the first place. I imagined time flying by and becoming completely engrossed in the story, and then hours later, I would reach literary nirvana AND have a sparkling clean house! I really believed I was on to something here.

The problem with that program was two-fold. Firstly, whenever I needed to move into a different room of the house, I had to really crank up the stereo or else strain to hear the audio book (my stereo was in the living room). Secondly, I learned that I am not all that successful at doing two fairly concentrated activities at the same time. Either my mind would wander while scrubbing the bathroom and I'd miss out on a portion of the novel, or I'd slow down my cleaning process to follow along with the story and end up taking twice as long to load the dishwasher. Also, vacuuming is not conducive to listening to an audiobook.

I even tried to listen to audiobooks while at the gym. Unfortunately, I found that this made my workouts go slower. Or at least that's how it felt to me. When I listen to music during a workout, I feel pumped up, energized and before I know it, I've done a half hour on the elliptical machine. Listening to a book-on-tape made me feel like I was moving in slow motion...and five minutes would go by like five HOURS!

I wouldn't even dare attempt to put a book on tape/CD while driving. Just see my track record above. Yeah, could be dangerous.

So, that's where I stand on audiobooks. Not a fan, never was and doubtful that I ever will be. They just don't mesh well with me. Throughout my life, I've never cared for being read aloud to...back in grammar school, "story time" left me feeling a little restless. Maybe the book-on-tape concept is lost on me due to some residual effect from my school days. I much rather prefer to take a book into my own hands and soak up every beautiful written word on the page in front of me.

What's your take on audiobooks? Do they work for you?

{Image Via: Bookworm}

Halloween Extravaganza

I want to extend heartfelt thanks to all those who have been visiting from Vanessa's Halloween Blog Party. I appreciate the kind comments and am so loving discovering all of your blogs as well! I am astounded at the diverse, unique and extraordinary creations I'm finding...you all simply knock my striped witchy socks off! In fact, I am so impressed with what I've seen at all of your fun, festive blog parties that I created a special Pinterest board to highlight the amazing things I've come across though Fanciful Twist blog hop. Come stop by to get a glimpse at all the Halloween happenings!



If I was able to grab the blog link left behind at Vanessa's original part post, I pulled a favorite photo or image from the participants blog. Below is a tiny taste of the Pinterest Fanciful Twist Party Board I've created...but it really doesn't do justice to the immense, incredible Halloween blog extravaganza that took place. So many amazing things to see...from handcrafted give-away items, to whimsical holiday creations; delicious and diabolical art to scrumptious feasts; haunting, silly stories to spooky, funky Halloween decor. Visit the board and follow along...you will find inspiration and an abundance of Halloween gloriousness!


Special thanks are in order for Vanessa for putting the blog party together...that woman is beyond magical! She personifies Creatrix to the nth degree! Vanessa, you are an inspiration more than you can ever know.

XOXO

Summoning The Creatrix

The time is drawing near. Soon, the Eve in which the magic and mystery of secrets, the spirits, beginnings, and endings will be upon us. While Samhain is a holiday of remembrance and honoring those who have passed on, it also a time for celebration...for feasting, fun, games, tricks and yes...even a few treats! Come join the festivities; all are welcome.

Now before we start the actual celebration; you have to pass a little "initiation". Oh, don't worry...it's no biggie. It's just something all the new kids have to do...think of it as a way to show you believe in the magic of the season. That doesn't sound so scary, right? Right! Come on then; take my hand and I will lead you to your initiation destination!

I'm sure you're wondering what this is all about and where we are going. You should probably wear something warm as it gets quite chilly at night this late in the autumn season around here. Oh I know it isn't quite nighttime yet....but you'll spending a little while at your initiation site and nightfall will arrive before you know it. Let's start walking, shall we? That wind is starting to pick up a bit, do you feel it? I've brought along some blankets and other items in my tote bag, so don't worry. Isn't it fascinating how at dusk, your eyes can play tricks on you--especially when the wind blows and the near-bare branches of the trees cast such creepy shadows?! For instance, just now it looks almost as though there is a long, bony arm reaching out beside us and motioning with a decrepit pointy finger! How bizarre!

We're almost there now. Just ahead...see that barren land beyond the path at the end of the street? Why yes, that is in fact the cemetery. Didn't I mention we were going there? Oh, I didn't, did I? That's right...it was supposed to be a surprise. Surprise!

Ok...now stop here. It's time for the initiation rite to begin. Yeah, I know...hanging around at night in a cemetery isn't really your gig, but trust me, this is tradition. And tradition is very important at the Creatrix Samhain Soiree. Help me spread the big fleecy blanket on the ground...right over there, in front of that tombstone.

Ok, now lie down upon the grave. Fold your arms across your chest just as though you were lying in a coffin. It's alright, there's nothing to be frightened about. What's that sound, you wonder? Ohh...it must be an owl! Yes, I'm sure that's what it is. I brought something that will help...let me rummage around in my tote bag...ah yes. Here we go. I'm going to place a candle right on top of the tombstone and you'll be able to see better. How's that? Better? See, *there* is the owl...he's just hanging out in the tree overhead. It's as though he's watching over us. That's a good omen. I assure you, it is!

All you have to do is lie quietly right where you are. This is the part of the initiation that might seem a little spooky, but as I said, it's tradition. You just need to remain silent and listen very carefully. What are you listening for? You'll know when you hear it...trust me. While you are listening, I am going to recite a little incantation...

When two or more are gathered on All Hallow's Eve,
A deed must be done for those who believe.
The dead have been silent for one whole year,
Now they must speak and the chosen one will hear.
Within the midnight hour you must walk with the dead,
Their graves of stone will mark their beds.
Carry a beacon to show you have come,
Call to them, "I am the chosen one."
Listen carefully for what you shall hear,
For it tells you your fortune for one full year.
Light one candle and leave it on a stone,
When the flame goes out, return to your home.
After the dead have spoken on All Hallows Eve,
They all shall visit your bed and your dreams.

Shhh....I hear something! Do you? I think the spirits are about to reveal your fortune for the next year! This is it...the moment we've been waiting for! What will the new year bring, I wonder?

The air really feels chilly now...oh wow! I have goosebumps all over my skin. The ghost woman hovering over us looks as though she's ready to speak now. So let's pay close attention to what she has to say.

"Do not fear, mere mortals be...
I've come to share good news, you see.
The year ahead will bring joy and mirth,
You will revel in the joys of the earth.
Nature's inspirations shall help you to see
The world around you offers so much beauty.
And when the days seem dark and stale,
Remember this night, this moment, if you will.
For you have all you need inside of yourself;
your gifts and the stories you have to tell--
can always be summoned and used to invigorate
and give you a myriad of reasons to...
CREATE
COLLABORATE AND CELEBRATE."


Such good news! There was really nothing to be afraid of...but sometimes we need to be startled a little in order to remember that there is much that we hold back from expressing on our Creatrix Journey. So as this Witches New Year approaches, I thought it would be a good time to remind us all that we need to think about what it is we wish to do with our creative prowess. We all have the ability to create, transform and inspire. But we also have a tendency to make excuses, and refrain from fully exploring our creative potential.





And now, for those of us who were a little spooked by the ritual, let's take a moment to calm our nerves...I brought something that might help.

Ok, so maybe libations aren't everyone's thing. Either way, I invite you to have a yummy beverage of your choice, think about your creative process and the things that sometimes scare you about it. What are you most frightened to express? What ways might you be able to deal with those fears and demons that can inhibit the creative process?

And when you're ready to join in the reveling and get into the spirit of the season, come on over to Vanessa's Fanciful Twist 2011 Halloween Party...you will surely find inspiration there! Be sure to scroll through the comments underneath her party post so you can stop by all of the other parties being held by the Creatrices who are taking part in the celebration!


{Samhain ritual components and incantation via: The Wiccan Book of Rites and Rituals, by Sister Moon}

Be Your Own Work of Art

“What strikes me is the fact that in our society, art has become something which is related only to objects and not to individuals, or to life. That art is something which is specialized or which is done by experts who are artists. But couldn’t everyone’s life become a work of art? Why should the lamp or the house be an art object, but not our life?”

- Michel Foucault

Halloween Party By A Fanciful Twist

The wickedly creative Vanessa over at A Fanciful Twist is hosting her 4th Annual Halloween Party on October 22. Blog hoppers and crashers, this is THE event of the season. You do not want to miss out.

Vanessa is a Renaissance woman, a crafty Creatrix, and amazing artist all rolled into one. Spending time visiting her blog is truly a magical experience. I kid you not. She also has an Etsy Shop filled with many curious delights that beg of your indulgence.

I am ecstatic to be participating in this year's Halloween blog party...there is so much to do, so much to see, so much to celebrate! Please join in for an unforgettable day of magic and creativity!

Creatrix Of The Moment: Louise, Jewellery Deisgner, Entreprenuer

Today I am so pleased to share with you the story of a very talented jewellery designer whose clever creations are sure to catch your eye.

Meet Louise of Aurora Wire Jewellery!



A resident across the pond, Louise has been an artisan for much of her young life. Her designs include handmade accessories and gifts for all sorts of occasions. Her sleek, silver necklaces are both trendy and classic and most certainly appeal to fashionistas who seek to make a statement with their choice of accessory. Read on to get a peek at the life and times of this stylish, cheerful, up and coming entrepreneur!

How did you get started in jewellery design? What drew you to this particular medium?

"I've been designing and making jewellery as a hobby since about the age of 10, but I started making it seriously when I was 15. I bought some jewellery making wire from a craft shop and grabbed a pair of pliers and started making rings and taught myself through trial and error. I was inspired to do this after buying a wire wrapped ring from Camden market in London and thinking I could have made it myself! However, what I really wanted to do was make proper solid silver jewellery - so I did some research on the internet and found a new medium of making silver jewellery called precious metal clay, or PMC. I watched in awe as I saw tutorials on youtube showing what seemed like modelling clay turn into pure silver as it was fired! I knew straight away that I wanted to do this, so using some of my savings and money from my 16th birthday, I invested in a lump of silver clay and some other bits of equipment to get me going... and that's really the story so far!"



Have you lived in the UK all of your life? Tell us a bit about where you are from.

"Yes, I've lived in the UK all my life. I'm from a seaside town in England called Weston-super-Mare. Although, my ultimate dream is to move to London. I spend a lot of time up there with my cousins who live there, and the buzz is always just so exciting - it's a great place to get inspiration."

Your pieces are beautifully crafted with silver...how did you come to love working with this material?

"I've always loved silver jewellery over gold or copper, and I particularly love the way it goes with any outfit because it's such a neutral colour. I came to love working with silver after investing in some metal clay and (thankfully!) loving the versatility it - it's almost like working with liquid silver but without any heat!"

What is your work space/studio like? Where do you do most of your creating?

"I don't as of yet have a proper studio, but I have a large desk in my room where each and every piece of my jewellery has been made."



Are you in school? If so, what do you enjoy studying?

"I've recently left school to focus on being a jewellery designer full time! But when I was at school my favourite subjects were photography, textiles and art."

On your blog, I notice you promote reading. What are some of your favorite books or types of books to read?

"I've been so busy lately that I haven't been able to properly get into a book, but my favourite types are probably fantasy books that take you away from reality for a little while. I find them really therapeutic! My other favourite books are really old jewellery books with everything from Victorian jewellery to ancient Egyption jewellery!"

What influences your designs for jewellery pieces? How did you decide to come up with the "Alphabet Necklaces" line?

"The main thing that influences my designs is when I think of a piece of jewellery in my head that I would like, then look for it and can't find what I want anywhere - or I can find it, but the price is way out of my price range! For example, with the Alphabet necklaces, there's quite a few similar ones around but the ones within my price range were made from base metal which really irritates my skin, so I just thought I'll do it myself! So to sum it up, most of my jewellery is inspired by jewellery that I (or one of my friends/family) want, but can't find!"



What are three things (craft/jewellery themed or otherwise) that are inspiring you right now?

"One thing that is inspiring me now is the sudden change in the weather here in England. It's suddenly got really cold and it's getting darker quicker, so a lot of my designs in the coming months will be winter-themed. Another thing that always inspires me is old jewellery books. I'm going to start expanding my jewellery range soon and trying out new things inspired by all the elaborate earrings, brooches, cuffs etc. that the ancient Egyptions wore! Lastly, my friends and family. I'm constantly getting suggestions from them! "

If you could spend an all-expenses paid week vacationing anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?

"I would probably go to the opposite end of the world - or just anywhere that I could find that is the biggest contrast to England! I'd love to see somewhere like Australia, or even Africa!"

What has been the most difficult lesson you've learned as an entrepreneur so far?

"The most difficult lesson has been learning that everything takes time. You can't just expect to put your products online and think that people will find them and buy them straight away - you have to find ways of getting people to notice you! And when, like me, you don't have money for expensive ads etc., you have to be inventive and find ways round it - that's how my blog started!"

What is one thing you were surprised to learn about yourself?

"Looking back I would say I was most surprised that I've actually stuck with it! I usually start things and have big ideas but they all slowly fade out, but I've learnt that I really do have a passion for jewellery and I'm thinking about it all day, everyday! "

What advice would you give to an aspiring jewellery designer?

"My advice would be don't give up!! It might feel like everything is taking a lifetime to get going, but when you find the medium that you love everything will start falling into place. And just practise whenever you get the chance. I've never been to a jewellery workshop or course - so it's no excuse! Just get stuck in and learn from your mistakes."

Many heartfelt thanks to Louise for taking the time to participate in this interview! Be sure to visit her blog, Aurora, to keep up to date with her creative endeavors. In addition to her esty shop, Aurora Wire Jewellery, Louise's work is also available for purchase through Rockettt St. George, a UK online store.

Traces of Fall

Fall is both a passionate and mellow affair. Warm colors dance through the daylight; the scent of the earth preparing to sleep is rich and spicy. We are at once invigorated and drawn to our homes, for the time for winter retreat is drawing near. Soon the wheel of the year turns toward the somber season and the traces of fall we cherished will fade away.



This treasury was inspired by a delightful autumnal jewelery line by a designer named Pentunkalunka. Her creations are colorful, quirky and very vivacious! Do stop by her shop Pentunkalunka Jewelery Designs on etsy. Her pieces are sure to bring a smile to your face.

In the spirit of this time of year, dear readers, please share what one thing absolutely says "autumn" to you...

A Creatrix Is...

When I came up with the moniker "Miz Creatrix" I liked it because I thought it sounded unique, and a little sexy too. But beyond the connotation of a woman who dazzles the masses with her prolific ability to create miracles and myriads of fantastic things, there are several other traits I believe embody what a "Creatrix" is.

1. A Creatrix knows there is no one and only right way to do anything. What works one day, may not work the next. Projects which other Creatrices accomplish with ease may became the bane of another's existence. And most importantly, a Creatrix does not judge another being because of differing philosophies.
   
2. A Creatrix is at ease with herself, and because of this, she is at ease and peace with all those around her.
3. At times, a Creatrix is a bit of a cultural rebel. She is unafraid to go against the grain and defy conventional wisdom. She does not follow trends just because they are trends. If it doesn't work for her, she simply does not do it. She dares to be groovy in her own right.
   
4. A Creatrix is a person of strength and wisdom. She does not hesitate to help others and does not expect something in return. She has enough love inside of her that it can't help but to spill onto others.
5. A Creatrix looks for the connections in all things, people, events. She understands that in spite of surface differences, everything and everyone is interrelated.
   
6. A Creatrix is intelligent, courageous, and curious. Whatever her medium, niche or calling, she puts her heart and soul into all she does. She asks questions and realizes that sometimes, the questions are more important than the answers.
   

What do you think? Is there anything you would add to the list? And more importantly, do you live the life of a Creatrix? If not, what would it take for you to do so?

National Lace Day

Whether you create with lace or add lace accents to your projects/designs, there's something dreamy and ethereal about the beauty of lace.

Today, take some time to learn more about the history of lace.

"I consider lace to be one of the prettiest imitations ever made of the fantasy of nature; lace always evokes for me those incomparable designs which the branches and leaves of trees embroider across the sky, and I do not think that any invention of the human spirit could have a more graceful or precise origin." ~Coco Chanel, April 29, 1939

How Do I Love Coffee? Let Me Count The Ways...

September 29 is National Coffee Day! I could not possibly allow this day to pass without sharing a little ode to all things caffeinated.



I can't imagine a world without coffee. In fact, you probably do not want to imagine a world where I exist without coffee. Just sayin'.

I'll take mine with two creams and two sugars, please. =)

I orchestrate my mornings to the tune of coffee. ~Terri Guillemets