Artistic Journeys * Doe Grozs Art *

Saturday's Stones

2012-01-07T19:19:00.003-05:00

A day for the senses.

First you called me by smell.

Taste.

Such sweet bliss.

I moved through the afternoon with touch.

Cold. soft. smooth.

playing. shaping. molding you into form.

Soon you will be filled with love

and nourishment.

Sweet touch.

An offering.

Today's small stone

2012-01-06T18:39:00.001-05:00

Capping the paint cups from class, back and forth from table to table.

Cleaning up, wizzing around the room, when the most spectacular sunset

captured my eye and took my breath away.

I Stop... Get the Camera.

I took pictures until the brilliance faded.

2 Stones in a Row

2012-01-04T09:17:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I went into the art room, thinking it would be nice to have a small book to write these "stones" in.

Three small black moleskin books

and one with purple glitter.

Small enough to fit in one's pocket

and Big enough to carry

project ideas, sketches, quotes

and dreams.

Awareness of my mind,

sorting, unsure,

gathering together

these ideas flying through my mind.

Unclear... Uncomfortable.

I jumped from one idea to another.

my mind was just not settled..

I did not have my mandala time.

I will just have to "wing it"....

January 2nd's small stone

2012-01-02T20:38:00.003-05:00

Morning light draws my attention to the wall in front of me.

Vision board, boxes of art supplies are highlighted

Chimes outside tell me there is much more than a gentle breeze.

The distant sound of a train mixes with the wind, they meld together and then it is only the chimes..and then silence.

Then it is mandala time.

Another small stone - intense present moment awareness in yoga class.. closing my eyes in bridge pose, I felt so present... no longer the teacher, but the student.

I felt so very blessed.

River of Stones

2012-01-01T16:25:00.004-05:00

One of my intentions this year is to take some time for myself... balance the work with the time to stop, relax, become more aware and be in the present moment. Actually, I intend to be present to all of it... and like anything else, that takes practice.

One way to stay on track it to make a commitment.. to be accountable, so I joined the group (see side bar) River of Stones.. click on the link to learn more and maybe you will want to join in.

What better way to be present than through the lens of a camera. For me, it draws me in and makes me look deeper and appreciate all that this world has to offer. It helps me to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. It helps me to see it ALL as a miracle.

My stone:

Today I woke at 7:55

Greeted by my husband, delicious coffee and crow.

The Sun rose over the house and I let it's light warm my face

until it hid between the trees.

Then I knew it was mandala time.

Walking at the beach and surprised by large groups of people

swimming on the first day of a new year.

I like warmth and comfort

and looking at things with a fresh new eye.

An encouraged Path

2011-12-15T08:37:00.003-05:00

Saying good bye to the turtle altered spice bottle.

The show at the Mamaroneck Library was pretty successful. The Altered Spice Bottles received the most attention. I sold some framed mandala prints - 2 of my favorites - and some cards.

The cards are something new for me. The exhibit at Masterpiece Framing and the Wainwright House gave me the impression they would sell, not as well as I had anticipated, but enough for me to keep at it.

I sold one that had my son's digital image on it and that was one of those "feel good" moments.

She bought it specifically because of the image. Kudos to Jake!

Winding down this year and reflecting on all it held for us, we both did well in the art department. We both sold our art, encouraging us both to stay on this path of creating and putting it out there into this world. Putting one's art out there and feeling the welcoming response to it, gives us the encouragement that we have found a path that we can share.

We both love to do art and it is true that when you follow your passion, money will follow.

It's more than money though... it's the knowing that someone values your "being", your soul.

When someone has a piece of your art, that have a piece of your soul.

Thank you.

Namaste'

John's reception

2011-11-13T10:33:00.002-05:00

John's reception was yesterday, Sat. at the library in Harrison. It was wonderful to share it with friends and family and some delicious baked goods from my friend Jennifer. YUM.

some of John's earlier pieces. If you are in the area, it's up until Dec.2.

Window Painting in town

2011-10-17T08:23:00.003-04:00

Children and Adults came out to decorate the windows of downtown Harrison and West Harrison on Sunday. A beautiful day with the sun shining, it was a joyful sight to watch everyone have fun.

A Work in Progress....

2011-10-06T14:00:00.003-04:00

I'm taking an online course with Donna Iona Drozda. I love following her blog while following the phases of the moon. Working with the moon is learning to live with nature's cycles.. to everything there is a season.

As I have been following her lessons, I've been putting my images and ideas on to paper and canvas. The art show is hanging and I now need to refocus on my art again. I planted my vision seeds during the new moon. Each new moon, I write my intentions in a journal... and I usually leave it at that. This class is keeping me on track... following through with my ideas. Give birth to them. Those seeds that have begun to send a root down, they look like sperm, ready to fertilize and nourish my idea. 2nd Chakra.. creating that vision. I'm still home, working on this idea, playing and creating...until I am ready to take it outside.

mmm. who do I take it to? how do I present it? is it good enough????? notice those seeds that have sprouted?? it was while painting them, that I began to see them as question marks.

There is the challenge.. to move beyond those self doubts, beyond questioning things so much that I drop it. I want to nurture the seed/vision. Tend to them lovingly, gently.

It was during this quarter moon that I realized how energetic I became and how much I got done out in the world. Awareness. Being in Community. Those roots that grow deep into the earth mingle with other roots. They join together, in unity and those roots become stronger. We need to take our gifts out into the world, move beyond those self-doubts.

I realize I do not need to know how things will play out. Experience has taught me that life unfolds in unexpected ways and it's easiest to flow with it. Allow it to happen. Being aware, in tune with it, is like icing. Yum.

Earth's Playground

2011-09-25T07:48:00.003-04:00

Today is the opening of our exhibit at the Wainwright House in Rye... in the area? Come check us out. The reception is between 5 and 7. It will be up until October 21. The work is hanging downstairs as well as upstairs in the Harborview room. I'm actually surprised we were able to fit it all in - and thanks to Caesar for his help in hanging the work!!!

Before the reception is the Community Celebration which previously was The Healing Arts Fair. Not sure why they changed the name. It's pretty much still the same with lectures and various healing practioners having small sessions. John and I will be there for this and looking forward to it... Then the reception and following that is a fire ceremony with Susan and Leigh from 7 to 9.
Today, I relax and play and enjoy.
Wainwright House is such a wonderful place to hang out even when nothing is going on. Peaceful.

New Moon Mandala

2011-08-29T19:25:00.002-04:00

Back to creating some mandalas. I pulled most of my art supplies into the dinning room "just in case" we lost power during the hurricane. Luckily we didn't, but I did get some work done creating cards, doing some framing, working a bit on a painting. Today, I got to do some creating for the new moon.. a bit of meditating and setting some intentions for the new cycle.

New Exhibit- revised!

2011-08-16T08:31:00.003-04:00

Camp is over. I have my life back :-)

It seems once that camp ends, my mind races with all sorts of ideas. Camp eats up so much of my time, that when it's over, it creates a vacuum and now I am observing all that needs to be done around here. Work needs to be framed, cards made, other work to be finished.

2 nights of mental meanderings kept me awake.

Ideas flooded in.

Our exhibit is at the Wainwright House in Rye. Reception is Sunday, Sept. 25
from 5-7, right after the community (Healing Arts) fair.

Hey, go to the fair and then come to the show!!!

We've gone to the fair in the past and there have been some great lectures (free) along with having some readings done. Pam Cucinell did my chart last year and has really made an impression with me because of what she picked up on.

One was moving. Check!

the other was working with my husband.. and here we are exhibiting together. check !

We'll be hanging the work on Sept. 23 and taking it down Oct. 22, so if by any chance you cannot come to the opening, you'll have a chance during that time.

Once this comes down, John will be exhibiting solo at the library in Harrison for November.

We are busy bees :-)

I'll keep you posted..

Inner Dwelling

2011-07-17T09:26:00.004-04:00

adding some essence to the work...flower and gem essence to the water in the water pen I used to spread the glitter gel pens.. love it :-). This mandala doesn't have it, just outlined with the gel pen but they, the gel pens and water essence make it all that more magical... I titled this "inner dwelling" and that may be the title of the show...more to come about that :-)

Bird Magic

2011-07-04T10:28:00.002-04:00

Since moving here, birds have played a more dominant role in our lives. We wake to them and listen more intently during the day.. Crow seems to call out more often and the sighting of woodpecker is more frequent. Cardinal as well.
Add to that hummingbird.
I used to see hummingbird as my totem, but he slipped my memory until just recently. He came to visit while on vacation and his message rings true. find joy. lighten up.
I can lean towards taking things a little too seriously. There is that perfectionist part of me and will work until I see it as perfect or as close to it as I can get (especially if there is a time limit).
We have feathers all around us here at home.. hawk, turkey, condor, macaw, white peacock and crow. Many were gifted.. some found.
They are reminders to me.. ideas, dreams.. flight.
Yesterday, I had this feeling come over me of "not good enough".. not interesting enough.. too boring... John got a good laugh from this when I brought it up.. and that's when I thought of hummingbird and her message to lighten up.. it's ok to just relax (not work) and stop comparing. It brought me to the art room because that is the place where I go for myself.. to listen to where that message may have come from.. and create.
Mandala usually brings me back to balance. I used a newish journal with rag pages and took out the H2O's along with the markers and the glittering gel pens (those alone make me feel good)
Being that it's scanned, it doesn't show the glitteriness very well.
Messages are all around us if we pay attention and open our eyes and heart.. what is it telling you, what is it mirroring back at you?

I'd like a blue jay feather.

Just 5 days

2011-07-01T08:52:00.002-04:00

Unplugged for 5 days. I'm thinking I should do this at least once a week... or at least twice a month! Quiet. Listening to the sound of birds. This vacation was focused on birds. Watching streaks of red fly by or standing out among all this GREEN!

Enjoying the peace and quiet.. still enough, that I can listen to that voice within me. Reading, creating mandalas, journaling.. and of course exploring and shopping for new treasures.

John finally found his bird totem in Avalon Moon in Delhi.. a beautiful store filled with lots of good energy and so many treasures!!!! Found a beautiful bag for my yoga supplies that I've been looking for.

Wake up call! Yes, woodpecker was my alarm clock. His drumming continued through out the day. I'd run back to capture him with the camera.. Mostly I was unsuccessful as he was so fast, but I did manage to get a few shots. It was like living inside a drum.

The other bird I did not manage to photograph was the humming bird. A quick visit to validate a thought... I bought a book for John on the healing messages of birds. Reading on humming bird, I reflected on how I was so into this bird and thought it was definitely one of my totems.. I closed the book and there she was. Humming bird is about connecting with the joy in life.. and yes, sometimes I need to lighten up!

Vincent told us this was a baby and they grow to be pretty big.. can't imagine THAT sound :-)

Woodpecker is about keeping in rhythm with nature... (I thought about getting a drum)

Art show - part 2

2011-06-11T18:21:00.002-04:00

We had the reception for the art/photo show in West Harrison. Nice turn out - LOTS of wonderful food -and meeting a lot of very appreciative parents.
Next year, I'm going to add a slide show :-)
Love these kids...

Birds and the Bees

2011-05-21T08:17:00.000-04:00

and the flowers

and the trees ...

A cure for what ails you...

2011-05-15T13:11:00.003-04:00

Feeling a bit stuck, restless... and I needed to go out and walk for a while. Maybe a new cigar box to create with.. but they were closed. So I walked to one of my favorite houses to see if the poppies were open yet.

No. They weren't but the Iris's were and they were growing along the outside wall of the house.

One of my favorite flowers to photograph..

Behind the wall a few Rhododendrons were hiding their blooms..

and the walk home brought some more luscious blooms.

Feeling much better.

Don't forget to click for close-ups :-)

Looking Within

2011-05-14T08:58:00.002-04:00

One tiny incident.. or not so tiny... causes me to look within myself to find the real reason for the "mood". One decision made, sets off the feeling of doubt.. which way to go.. yes or no.. bringing up feelings of being taken advantage of.. caused by past decisions made.
I stop. Realizing where the uncomfortable feeling has come from..
it's past. gone. done with. let it go.
Move forward. Get in touch with my feelings about the situation now. I am different now.
I always have a choice and can make new choices.. choose new responses.
In order to do that, I need to stop.. go within.. get in touch with the truth of my being.. this me "now" and choose.
We have the answers with in us. We just need to stop the external commotion all around us.. get quiet enough to listen to that voice within.. and feel that power of knowing.
we do know. we DO know.
Know the triggers that set off those feelings, explore them, and then make the "now" decision.
I cannot be the answer for you and you cannot be the answer for me.. we each have that answer within us.. find it for yourself as I will work on finding my own answers..
and then we can share.
Share what we find. Commune with each other. Teach our process.
I cannot give you fish anymore, or at least I don't want to... I want you to fish for yourself... and here lies the journey.. how to fish, where to fish, which pole do I use, which waters are best... Each of us need to discover that for ourselves, I guess.. that is the journey.
Each of us need to find those sacred waters, discover our own way to dive in.. into the center of our divine Self.
Namaste'

A deeper look

2011-05-10T07:55:00.002-04:00

The antidote to stress for me is to take out the camera and go outside and wander around looking for flowers or other objects and take a closer look... a deeper, what's -going -on- in -there, deeper look. It puts things into perspective for me I guess. Brings me to ponder the mystery of life, why we are here and helps me take a look beyond the small petty stuff and look more to the bigger picture.. because it's all reflected in the small things of life.
From the wide expansiveness of the Universe to the smallest seed or grain of sand... as above, so below.... There must have been such an immense power of love to create all of this.
It humbles me.
It makes me take a deeper breath.
A deeper look within myself... to look at my beliefs.. question where they came from and if they still hold true or if I am just comfortable with them.
Change.. dramatic changes, crises kind of change, draws me in.. just like a flower. Taking a deeper look within my self - a deeper look to see those seeds that will eventually flower.
I want to bloom into my truest Self.
A scallion is no less beautiful that the lotus when looked upon with deep tender, loving eyes.. and that is where I can honor life.. through my lens, my eyes.. feeling blessed to know this moment, this present moment.
Namaste'

Favorite time of the year :-)

2011-05-04T16:11:00.000-04:00

Luscious Spring

2011-05-03T18:28:00.002-04:00

When life gets overwhelming

and the list gets longer

I feel

spent.

My time out

was to pull out the camera

and focus

the

beauty

that was

surrounding

me.

Rejuvenation.

We ARE worthy

2011-04-24T09:29:00.003-04:00

Morning meditation on Easter Morning..

I think on these things..

REbirth.. REnewal..

and the deeper mystery of life..

it's changes, transformations and how to rise above the fears that change..

unwanted and quick change.. creates.. change that comes to us when we do not understand what is happening or why.

The pain that comes along with the knowledge of someone else's pain.. compassion, empathy.. and the fervor of praying so hard it just has to change the outcome!

I think on this and the miracles that surround it..

Easter is the celebration of Christ rising...

ascension

is the message to us saying there is no death...

and therefore should not be feared..

then why do we fear it..

because we are not so sure..

How do we rise above the fear of losing, not being good enough, strong enough, loved enough..

In my mandala, I sent out prayers to the four directions of the Earth..

to the sun,

to the land,

to the waters..

to all of us.. for peace.. for love..

to overcome small pettiness, hurts from our childhood, from words spoken carelessly..

for healing..

We are worthy of all the abundance the earth offers.. we are entitled to happiness and the right to live a life that is secure.. that supports our basic needs..

healthy food, clean water, the right to breathe fresh air...
We should all be living a life that is filled with joy.. the opportunity to use our talents..

the encouragement and support to move forward -

discovering our true purpose,

our higher spiritual reason for existing.

We all deserve unconditional love.

Christ was all about love.

Whatever your beliefs are, we all share that..

that we are worthy of love..

I love you :-)

Namaste'

Blossoming to the edge

2011-04-23T09:01:00.002-04:00

Spring is a time to blossom..

we open our doors and windows..

take a deep breath of fresh air..

we grow.

We open ourselves up to new possibilites.

How much we grow is up to us.

How much risk do we want to take..

how far can we move outside our comfort zone..
how close to the edge can we go...

Nourish yourself.

Bathe in sunlight,

drink in all the beauty that surrounds you.

Make new creative decisions,

expand.

New beginnings are on the horizon...

Angels among us...

2011-04-17T07:09:00.003-04:00

I went to a lecture the other night and I was very aware of the continuing insights I was receiving.. and this even before the meditation. In this lecture, I was reminded of my path.. where I have been on this journey and those synchronicity moments that led me along the way. Reminded of the events leading to where I am today, I thought, if we all took the time, we would be in a constant state of awe. One thing leading to another until we reach our full potential. I had felt I had come full circle sitting there... another lecture years ago, committing to my path, the path of the artist. Here I was recommitting myself. Affirming my path and the direction I am taking and feeling very good about it. One of the ideas discussed was to take those challenging moments and look at them and ask, "what are they teaching me?" Why has this been placed upon my path, and what can I learn from it, what am I missing.. how can it make me grow... This usually happens afterwards.. we see in hindsight what that challenge was there for. How conscious are we in the moment of this "challenge" to ask that question... something I will work on. When we make a commitment to something, the Universe conspires to help us along the way... the path becomes clear for us, our vision laser-like. Yes. We can cut through the debris, knowing we can get to the destination.. the destination of our Self. It's the me.. the real, authentic "me" - the reason I am here.. to use my talents/gifts to the best of my ability. Allow the acorn to sprout and grow to it's magnificence. I'm not sure if I will know the "highest" purpose, whose lives I touch, what difference I am making.. but if I can know just some of it, I am satisfied. A simple decision can make all the difference to someone else's life. Know that. A decision made to do one thing differently, or try something new.. venture out to an unknown place.. can change the course of history.. and why not allow that to be you.. or me.. all of us. To bring to this life our highest potential, our courage to create, would this not be one wild ride! To dream the biggest dream. Not play safe, nor to doubt our desires, feelings, thoughts... but instead feel the embrace of angel wings gently guiding us to our true destiny. Some days we take gentle steps... and other days, we need to skip, jump, run... fly!

EVIDENCE

2011-04-09T19:34:00.002-04:00

Evidence of Spring.. my brother unwrapped the fig trees today. I went over in time to help a little bit, taking the tarps off the smaller tree.

Here, the tarps are laid out to dry.

before that, John and I went to the beach for a walk and it was so nice to find these flowers in bloom and the buds on the trees...

evidence

that

spring

finally

here!

Art and Joy

2011-04-06T07:32:00.003-04:00

The children's art exhibit is opening this Sunday. During approximately 20 classes, I work with preschoolers creating art, taking pictures... capturing moments in time. Moments of concentration, the true meaning of living in the moment. Being present.

The satisfaction of a work completed.. a thrill to watch their expressions of pleasure and joy.

They teach me the real meaning of play, exploration.. of creativity.

Along with the art, their photos, I have posted quotes. I do this mostly for the adults that view the exhibit.. held in the Municipal Building in Harrison .. so they can be reminded how important creativity is in all our lives.. We need to return to play, taking time for ourselves to enjoy the things we love to do.. sing...dance...paint.. glue.. stamp... photograph.. CREATE!

Rediscover the joy within you that you once had as a child.. take some time today to play and create and see how the world around you dissolves....

Eastern rising

2011-03-21T07:14:00.002-04:00

Spring. New beginnings. Uranus moved into Aries for some change.. big change! Lots of newness.
Looking towards the east, new horizons, I begin to ponder what is coming. What am I moving towards. What surprise do you have in store for me Uranus?
We watched the full moon rise the other night and it was such a spectacular site to see. Big orange glowing orb coming up over the water. It filled me!
Now it is Spring.. finally. It has been a long winter, but I have enjoyed it much more this year than any other living in our new place.. more room to move and play and create. It made all the difference.
Our exhibit was exciting and opened up new doors for us. Both of us sold our art and we both feel very blessed about that. Validation! Yes. We are on the path we should be on....
My focus on the Art of the Young Child has begun. Printing out photos of them, quotes to go along with the art work.. and I'm beginning to feel the pull between things. Tension.
Still need to do my taxes, but at least they are gathered in the same place. Camp order is almost done. These are the necessities of life right now.
I take it on.
They all take time and I juggle it.. trying to balance it all between teaching classes and taking care of other obligations and taking care of myself. I finally got an adjustment after over a year and making an appointment with the dentist after a broken tooth. The scales tend to tip towards the side of "others" and I pay the price.
How to fix that... my lesson in balance. Taking the time for me....
I do with my art, my mandalas as they are my greatest teachers right now.. and for now they tell me to look east.. towards new horizons. Keep open for new opportunities and
ASK FOR HELP.

focusing on the light..

2011-03-14T08:36:00.004-04:00

I love reading D.K Brainards horoscopes each week.. Words for the People.

Today, part of it, pertaining to my rising Virgo and Uranus in my 7th house, I read this:

In his thousands of channeled readings, American mystic Edgar Cayce repeatedly said that art and creativity are the most powerful and clear ways for humans to bring Divine energy and intelligence into the world. With Uranus, the ruler of your 5th House of creativity, sitting on the volatile Aries Point in your 7th House of relationships, this is a sacred time in which your art (and artful response to the fear, polarization and uncertainty of the times) can inspire the world to envision and create a better future. The Aries Point, which the Sun further activates as we build up to Sunday’s equinox, always invokes the collective consciousness somehow. The picture I see here is that by choosing to radically shift your relationship energy and emphasize those relationships where creativity, innovation, optimism and transformation are present, you are actually shifting the foundations of our society and making a better world possible. I mean, how else is it going to happen?

My husband just called down to me from upstairs that my art was compassionate. Originally, my husband was doing the art show on his own and was calling it, Dark Matters... too negative for me.. and he invited me to share the exhibit and therefore of course we needed to add some light... Thus, The Dark and Light Matters became the title of the show.

Both do matter. We need them both. We need the dark to rest, to renew our selves so we can move into the light more refreshed. We need balance.. too much dark is not good.. we get depressed.

Balance. Yin and Yang.

I can appreciate the light.. Light.. so much more these days after experiencing some pretty scary "darkness"... and that's what our show brought out to anyone who views it.

I choose to focus on the good, positive side - compassion, love, light! This is what I say in my art. At least the mandalas.. not always with the assemblages.

It's nice to be validated here and with a nod from the Universe saying, Yes, you are on the right path.

thank you :-)

Art show

2011-03-07T21:27:00.005-05:00

These are the pieces I sold in the show.. they went to good homes. I loved creating them and now, like children, I send them on their way...

Creating art and releasing it into the world is such a great feeling... and it makes room to create something new.. I am so very grateful for everyone who came and shared this wonderful experience.. I sold two mandala prints along with these three assemblages and I'm thrilled to have them out in the world :-) I created mandala cards.. all went out the door. Thank you.

John sold some of his work as well, so we both came home very happy.

Again, we find that we have very good friends... and made some new ones.
Namaste'

Art Show this weekend

2011-03-01T09:10:00.002-05:00

Anyone in the area of Harrison, NY is welcome to our opening reception on

Saturday, March 5

at Masterpiece Framing

243 Halstead Ave. Harrison, NY

2-4 pm

My husband and I will be exhibiting our art including assemblages, mandalas and drawings.

Refreshments and music

(very excited :-)

The Awakening

2011-02-24T08:46:00.003-05:00

Under the blanket of snow, seeds stir, break open.

One warm day, sprouts peeked through the ground, offering us their intention of renewal.

I too awake from winter's slumber...

ready to offer my internal messages,

my gleanings of this deep introspective time.

I bring what was buried inside, out into the world... my offerings.

Why am I here?

I have guessed this is a part of it...

...what brings me joy flows out into the world...

Awakening to the gifts and sharing them.

Thoughts become....

2011-02-10T08:56:00.003-05:00

We have all heard that we are what we eat... but we are also what we think.

Our thoughts define us.

Where we put our attention is what we draw towards us..

Law of attraction.

"All that we are is a result of what we have thought.

The mind is everything. What we think, we become."

~Buddha

We become the light if we choose to focus on the light

and looking towards beauty begets more beauty.

When in fear and doubt,

turn.

Look out a different window.

It gives me a different perspective on thinking - that we can change so much in our lives by doing this and I wonder what keeps us from it..

"Wait..

I can change all this by changing my thoughts on it."

Enough thinking on the good stuff will change a belief.

Believing in this change has to accompany the thoughts, otherwise you will be counteracting it.

Can we change our whole perception of the world???

Can we all heal ourselves and others???

Can we create a world of peacefulness and joyfulness and love???

Move in that direction..

Let your thoughts be ones of gratitude.

Thank you for reading my blog.

(and turn off the TV :-)

Heart Chakra

2011-02-05T14:22:00.002-05:00

Inspired by a conversation on color.. green in particular and what went with it.. I played with greens and pinks as these are the colors of the heart chakra. Challenging to limit myself to a few colors but there are 3 shades of green and used a burgandy as another shade of pink.
I've been wanting to do some mandalas that are focused on chakra and this one is for the heart center.. being grounded in love.
Love sets us off into flighty directions at times, making us feel light as if our feet barely touch the ground... but here I am saying that my love.. your* love helps to ground me. Gives me comfort and stability and helps me to keep my heart open and brave. Yes, you* give me courage and confidence to go out and be my Self and try new things.
I love you*.
you* = my hubby :-)

Mid point

2011-02-02T12:17:00.003-05:00

We are at the midway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox.. Imbolc.. Candlemas and the groundhog didn't see his shadow- supposedly we will have an early spring... mmmmm.
Tonight is the new moon and a great time to set intentions.
Mine?
They are to bring my inner Self out into the world more... let the light within shine.. it's a process that I keep working at and little by little I am bringing the me.. the real me.. out into the world via art and teaching and yoga.. and also not to play so small and safe but to open up and take more risks with my art.. my spiritual practice.
Ironically, it's all happening more from inside these days as again weather is keeping us in. But the internet.. definitely ruled by Uranus/Aquarius.. allows it to happen that we CAN share our true selves out into the world.. and to a greater audience... Community.. very Aquarian.
We can "be" with friends and all sorts of people we will never meet in person.. amazing, huh...
It's also a time for me to do some internal spiritual dwelling.. keeping myself clear on what exactly I should be sharing... my heart rather so much in my head..
Winter is a time to go within (nature being our example) and become less active, more receptive. The weather forces us all to slow down.... and so it is.
The art exhibit is in a month and preparation for it is my focus.. Exposure.
and then for tomorrow.. the Chinese new year.. Metal Rabbit.. so much to celebrate.
Here's to new beginnings!

Potential

2011-01-30T10:10:00.002-05:00

This morning as I worked on my birthday mandala

I thought about

how we are born with the potential

to be... to do

become

whatever/whoever we desire

because we are born with

free will.

We get to choose.

My first title - the thoughts that rummage through my mind-

was "beans and buds"

they both have potential

beans into coffee

buds into blossoms

but only if there is nurturing

water, sun

some grinding..

and of course that thought gave rise to

am I using all my potential

all my gifts

Life is a gift

and in return for it

I believe we give back to life

all we are capable of

all the love and blessings of giving to others

in whatever way or form

we can

WE ARE THE GIFT!

Waiting Room Mandala

2011-01-28T16:25:00.003-05:00

Waiting

for

you.

While I wait, it gives me time

to listen within

but instead

I hear so much outside my self

and try not to make judgements

Sometimes I find compassion rising

and other times

I learn so much more about myself

People come and go

but I continue to sit and wait for you

conversations change

but

remain

the

same.

This must be a record...

2011-01-27T09:04:00.002-05:00

waking to snow again here in NY...
although I must say, it is really beautiful to look at...

it look so heavy

and so very full

clinging..

and now the fun begins...

digging out the car once again..

where do I put this stuff?!?!

community

2011-01-24T11:46:00.002-05:00

Union

joining together

community.

These are the thought that entered my mind as I created this mandala.

Like-minded souls coming together

to share their piece of truth.

We live on the outer edge of the wheel

each of us going about our lives.

It is a special moment as we enter into union with another

or a group with common interests..

joining together

coming into the center

what truly matters.

Love.

Reap what you sow

2011-01-17T10:16:00.003-05:00

Whatever seed you plant, that will be what comes to fruit. We all know that if you plant an apple seed, it will be apples that you will feast upon when the fruit ripens.
Why would it be any different with our thoughts... where my attention lies is where things will come to be.. my loving thoughts will manifest into loving attention on those things around me. If I look to the outside world focused on beauty.. that is what I will see.
Obvious.. no?
Well, why do we...I.. keep forgetting.. I won't speak for you. Only myself.
Sometimes we dig our heels in, stubbornly seeing only our side of the situation... only our own perspective.. and we know there is always another way to look at something.

I had in mind an idea... but for some odd reason, I could not find what I was looking for.. I looked and looked because there was this IDEA I had.. and I could not let go... I searched and searched. Moments of hope whithered away when I still turned up empty handed...
Finally, this morning I had a shift. Let it go. I wrote in my journal, did morning pages.. questioning the situation.. why, why could I not find what I was looking for.. did I even HAVE it.. doubts entered but nooooo, I do, I know I do... but the good thing was out of it came more unpacked boxes and I put more stuff away, progress of a different sort. It was good, very good that I was also finding other things.. things I needed to use.
Then another idea... If you continue to come upon a brick wall, take another path.
Change your mind.
I did.
I was planting a seed, but for some reason I expected a different outcome. Maybe it just isn't ripe yet and I need to wait with it.. be patient.
Instead with a shift in my willing to let go, something else entered into the picture and I became just as excited about it.
thanks for the lesson Universe.

layers

2011-01-08T08:45:00.002-05:00

I was thinking about healing and how it comes in layers. I would love for it to happen instantaneously... but find it comes in waves.. in layers.
This is the second mandala I did while waiting for John yesterday.. the other one is here.
It is what helps keep me from worrying and freaking out by keeping my mind focused. The snow is what had me concerned, but mandala helped me get through it.. keeping me calm and using it as prayer.
I believe our healing abilities come when we are in balance, so I try to do what brings balance. Bring the body, mind and emotions into balance. Easy to say, not so hard to follow when you are pulled in many directions by the outside world. One MUST come to a point where you give back to yourself the nurturing you need... quiet time, good healthy food, rich relationships, and even having to say "no thank you"... to turn inward to find your own answers, live your own truth and find what makes you deliriously happy and go there :-)
We learn in layers. We heal in layers.. moment by moment... learning to be absorbed in each moment, being the best we can be.
Savor each and every one.
Namaste'
Doreen

Mandala's Magic....

2011-01-01T11:17:00.002-05:00

The above mandala in the round is from my friend Kie and given as a gift to my husband for healing. Her mother in law made it and it is so very beautiful and special and hung where we see it all the time. Thank you Kie. My husband is deeply grateful.
I love mandalas - making them and seeing how they are made from others, from my many friends from the Mandala Oasis group to others found on facebook. They have the magical quality of calm for me. I become centered while making them and have been creating them in abundance this past year - one of the benefits of the year past.. thank you.
Looking back, there are those gems, those moments when you realize how strong you are, how you can actually move through a challenging situation and find yourself on the other end of it.
This is something to remember.
When you go through a crisis, and then know when another crisis comes around, you can say: I did it before, I can do it again... and this too shall pass. It always does.
There is always the other side of the door - grow through it!
There's where mandalas magic lies.. in it's presence.. a centering calm... a grounding... the Now.
Being in the present moment is the only place you can find peace.. never in the regrets of the past or the fears/worries of the future...never.
Only here.
Only now.
and that's where healing comes from. being in the now and enjoying this moment.
loving this moment.
being love.
and then sharing it.
I send a new year's message to you, my friends.. one that wishes you to always look to love for your answer. It will never steer you wrong.
I wish you all those deep dreams and desires to become manifested. To know your true north, your purpose in being and share it.
Shine a light on your talents
and may 2011 show you how wonderful you are.
Namaste'
Doreen

Winter Blues

2010-12-27T08:43:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we had a blizzard.. and I had a fever. I slept most of the day. Today my temp is 99.
a good thing.. as I was a bit worried when it was reaching towards 104. Here's the thing, a week off to finally catch up with stuff around here, like finally finish painting the hallway and a curve ball comes... no, not today says the Universe.
I'm feeling much better thankfully and gearing myself up to do something, even if it's something small.
I'm not fond of winter or blizzards and having to dig my car out. Gratefully, I don't have to go anywhere. I am tempted to take the camera out for a walk though. That won't happen as the practical side of me says that is NOT a good idea today, so we take pictures from inside.
The snow has stopped, not so much the wind... which was pretty scary last night.
Where we live now is a side street, so the attention to the clearing of roads is not as great as the main street we used to live on. I'm noticing most have snow blowers here and I am hoping to borrow a shovel. I could stay in until the weekend when the temps are supposed to go to 50 and melt it all.... I could stay in and just do art :-)

Holding Love

2010-12-16T09:51:00.004-05:00

My friend Chaska on facebook had asked a question about what made us smile. My reply was that anytime a child from art class gave me a hug because they loved to do art with me... and yesterday was another one of those days. Little 3 yr. old Ian got up from his chair making his claim that he LOVED art! and there's the smile... my heart danced!
There's that validation again... this greater gift of giving something that makes a difference.
Bringing a love of creating to a child.. My hands, his hands working together to create whatever our imaginations can conjure up. It's such a wonderful experience that fills me with love and I can share that love with another - a child who really appreciated it and let me know :-)
So, yes Chaska, another day with another smile.. never fails me.
Holding this love gratefully in my heart.

Dance of Love

2010-12-12T10:54:00.002-05:00

Chose some Christmas colors to get me a mood for the holidays. I love the idea of giving, but feel we have it all wrong in that department. It's the giving of the self that is what this season is about and not all the crazy stuff we run out to buy.
It is a wonderful feeling to received a token of affection from someone showing their appreciation, but to be honest, a thank you.. a sincere thank you is just as good and one of those thank yous that come out of the blue... when you least expect it.. feels even better.
I just have a really hard time with the whole commercial aspect of the holiday and the craziness of shopping and being on the road.
I want to stay in during the weekends just so I don't have to deal with finding a parking space. Instead, I'm loving staying in and fixing up our new place and doing some art and spending time with my hubby, warm and cozy.
I'd rather stay in the Dance of Love... the real message of the season.. to love one another, to move towards a greater peace.
If you are going to "gift" someone, why not make something, or give them some of your time.. but, if a gift is in order, buy in your own community, supporting the beauty of real personal service from a small business owner.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXh7JR9oKVE
and if you have to be at the mall, I hope this happens to you.. click the above link for joy in the making.
May you be blessed with the abundance of love and dance in it joyfulness.
Namaste'
Doreen

Layers

2010-11-19T11:32:00.002-05:00

Finally coming back to mandala more consistently thanks to my husband. I had started out doing mandalas every morning until the middle of October. Life went into hyper speed, kitchen got torn down and rebuilt. I painted in the art room and continued opening boxes and putting stuff away... and then I got sick.
My husband attributed it to not stopping, running myself down and not eating right.. so I stopped... even my mandalas.
The thing is, this mandala making is what I really needed to do to slow down, take some time for my self. I knew it, but didn't do it.
Then I noticed each morning, my markers and mandala book were laid out on the table ... waiting. I noticed, but there was too much to do... later.
Next morning and for a few mornings after that, he consistently set up my supplies.
He is so supportive, I thought and let him know that I appreciated what he did and then I sat.
I sat a made mandalas. I sat for a few minutes... caught some free time in between "obligations".. and began sitting longer and longer.
I paid attention to what came up... layers of feelings, peeling away like an onion... layer upon layer.
Let go of resistance, stop pushing the river, let my impatience fall to the side.. it all gets done in due time... little by little, step by step... layer upon layer it all unfolds, it all gets unpacked, gets painted, put away.
Forgive myself.
Forgive others.
I drove by the most beautiful sight. A tree caught in the sunlight, looking like it was ablaze and it took my breath away. Darn, I don't have my camera... I'll go back.
There are times I just want it all.. I want to embrace the whole of it, bite off way more than I can chew.
I went back.
Most of the leaves fell and although the beauty lingered, the moment was gone. I came across this quote today and it spoke volumes to me

"At some point in life the world's beauty becomes enough. You don't need to photograph, paint or even remember it. It is enough."
-Toni Morrison
I sit with this today, taking it to other levels.. sometimes one has to say, "enough".. stop. rest.
unpeel layers to find the core of what truly matters.
Love.
gratitude.
Thank you to my wonderful supportive husband :-)

the last pages

2010-11-05T10:24:00.002-04:00

To really appreciate Lila's work, click to get a close up. These beautiful watercolors are stiched upon and then layers of fabric added.. Lila, I love the bird.. I am a bird LOVER!

This last page in the journal makes me laugh. Gemma's happy elephant with her full trunk.. You KNOW me Gemma :-) I always have a full trunk... and I love that purse charm! This one cheers me to no end..... love it. Thank you. Travel well....

and now to work on the cover.

and more pages :-)

2010-11-03T09:53:00.003-04:00

Karen's Collages remind me of how much I want to begin doing soul collage. I've been saying this for a really long time. So much can be said with a few images.. simple, strong statements. I have enjoyed Karen's collages as they came by me.. thanks Karen
And Carmen! Carmen who initiated the whole process. I have been following her blog (she has a new one) for quite a while now. She is one to go to when you need a lift! Her positive look on life is contageous. I always feel good after leaving her blog. Thanks Carmen for inviting me to join you in this journey and happy to have you as a friend! Thank you.. Thank you

more pages in the journal

2010-11-02T11:42:00.002-04:00

This is the other page facing Susie's first page - hey Susie, I am all about flying :-)
Flying by the seat of my pants mostly... and butterfly for transformation! Thanks so much for these two pages!

I love this "kiss" from Ily, a very talented artist. I enjoyed watching her figures and faces pass through my hands as the books came by. She is an inspiration! This also brought me back to my Berjan School days working with toddlers. We had one boy who was Spanish and I learned the word besos, meaning kiss... fond memory :-) Thanks so much Ily!

2nd and 3rd pages Art Saves Journal

2010-11-01T08:48:00.002-04:00

This page is from Serena. I was fortunate enough to have Serena work in two different books. I love the way her page complements Shari's page and her important message for me and for all of us. We all have that inner beauty that needs to be released into the world.. without that, it wouldn't matter how great your make-up is. Our true beauty does in fact shine through us - a divine light- when we feel safe and secure, when we embrace love and gratitude for all that Life has given us. Thanks Serena.
Susie's playful page with a great Frankenthaler quote, "Every canvas is a journey all it's own"
How true... how true. Anyone that paints know this.. a journey that will take you down roads you never expected to be there. Stuff shows up and you ponder the message and meaning.
Thank you Susie.
Susie did another page - I'll post it next.

Page one - Art Saves

2010-11-01T08:40:00.003-04:00

Shari's page... Practice random acts of art is something I like to practice... I even have a stamp with that message on it. Love the doll that goes in and out of the pocket.. thanks Shari for sending me joy in the mail :-)

Home again.. home again..

2010-10-31T13:28:00.007-04:00

This is the canvas journal RR with a theme of ART SAVES
Carmen started us off with canvas journals that she stitched together. Each month (or so) we each created in each others book. I put my journal into a box and had sign in tags for everyone to decorate as they wished:
Carmen who started this project collaged the LOVE tag but had to show the back of it because it's so pretty (just above the peace tag)

Gemma's Peace Tag... very cool -stitched together
Amazing Ily with the face.. loved seeing her faces and figures.. she chose the Live tag but again, had to show the other side
Serena chose the hope tag - on the bottom it reads, "that lovely feathered thing"
Lila chose happiness but her tag above shows a watercolor flower.
Shari's was blessings: "count your blessings one by one." I may have to leave this one out to remind me
another good reminder.. Believe "in yourself" which Susie chose.. a most important message!
Karen, who always mailed to me :-) chose Faith
and I did Inspire
thanks for adding your blog addresses and thanks for all the wonderful art you blessed me with.
I have gained some new friends :-)
I'll be back with the pages later... in the meantime, go visit these wonderful artists!

Shari's journal

2010-10-21T07:48:00.002-04:00

I woke this morning feeling such a deep feeling of gratefullness, filled with joy! I've been feeling that a lot lately. I'm just so joy-filled with being here in this new place. I spent the day yesterday painting in the art room.. the ceiling and "sky light" and found myself painting a book case 10 pm last night.

This book is Shari's from the ART SAVES Round Robin and is the last one. It was just what I needed to stay connected to my art while we were in this chaotic process of moving. I still am working out of boxes, but I know it will all get done in time... or will it :-)

I know myself enough to realize that stuff hardly ever gets "done" as one thing has a sense of order something else will need it and there is that constant search for "perfection" in things that keep it all moving.... after all - once things are complete, finished, we've moved on from this plane to another.. and then in a sense ... it's STILL not done. Who knows what work will have to do on the "other side" :-)

Hopefully it will entail something very creative.

Happy Day All

Still here...

2010-10-19T07:58:00.003-04:00

Birthday Mandala

It's been a while since I've posted. My time has been filled with work and trying to put our new place in order. I've been missing the blogging. There's just been so much going on that it's hard to make the time and when I do have the time, I am way too tired...
I'm behind. This mandala is the front of a card for my friend who's birthday was in September!! Yeah. waaaaay behind!
The art room is moving forward in small steps. I was on such a roll and then life shifted gears into high and I had to leave it be for a while. Yesterday I painted some more and of course ran out of paint AGAIN! I'm having my issues with Benjamin Moore lately...not covering and the cost of the paint. YIKES!
Anyway... it's coming along and I guess one good thing is as I take my time with it, other ideas move in :-) I've decide to paint in a sky light (due to lack of paint color) to emulate the ones in the bedroom.
Today I have a bit of a breather, but laundry has piled up on me and I have to finish up a project for a friend... after that - The ART ROOM! I'm so itching to get in there and work on it--- so I can work IN it!
I've been doing my mandalas on a pretty regular schedule, but haven't scanned them.. and then I hope to blog more consistently.
One of the round robin journals is finished and I sent out my last book... waiting for mine to return to me and then I'll post that.
Life is full.. Life is good..
Kitchen cabinets arrive today and will be put in on Monday.. a new kitchen!
WE LOVE OUR NEW LANDLADY!!!!!

Leaving...

2010-09-26T09:05:00.002-04:00

Jake made this painting table for me. It's strong and solid and I hated that I left it behind, but the new art room would not accomodate it. I had to be ok with it.. a little sad, but it's time to move forward.
Time to begin again. Start fresh with new ideas, new creations... a whole new world of possibilites!
I left behind 33 years of life in one place! Lots of good memories there, but as space got smaller and smaller, filled with so much stuff, it got to be impossible to work in this room. A room that became storage for art supplies rather than a working art room.. a place to create in.
Much got packed, but much also got released... given away.. thrown away.
I surprised myself.
I am one who usually holds on.. holds on tight.. too tightly.
Suffocating.
With releasing, I felt a sense of letting go. A part of me that I no longer needed. Who was that person? why did she need to hold on?
I think or maybe feel the reason that helped me through this process was death.
If I died today, who would deal with all this stuff?!? and would I want to lay that on anyone???
NO.
I emptied drawers and closets and boxes of stuff that hadn't been looked at in a very long time.
I came across art work from collage and even high school.. all now deteriorating.. and no longer feeling so important. I left behind the past. I moved on.
I don't need the physical stuff for me to remember. I just remember... the important stuff anyway...
I just didn't know.
Now I do.
NOW I know the JOY!
I know the joy of starting fresh... a new beginning.
Another chance.

Be filled with ....

2010-08-15T17:26:00.000-04:00

Sun Light Beauty

Love

Sacred Layers

2010-08-07T18:29:00.003-04:00

What is on the surface, this top layer of your life that is exposed, open for all to see? Are there obvious wounds, physical imperfections for all to see? Maybe not.
Maybe the wounds are just below the surface, just beneath the skin or maybe hidden beneath layers of clothing.. and then maybe the layer goes even deeper and not one person would even guess there is a wound, some scar left from the past.
How deep are these layers?
But even more important is how deep do we need to go to find the source of the wound... because it is there. The source for even the most obvious is buried deep within us... layers and layers.. and we dig and dig to get at it.
We unearth several layers, sacred layers of our existence to search for the truth - the source of our hurt. The real source.
The fear issue I was looking at today was defined to me as "abandonment". I didn't see it that way on a conscious level.. I just looked at my fear of someone dying as a deep loss. A little later on (during a quick meditation) I saw a moment of my past.. a source of this fear perhaps. Fear of something being taken away, fear of loss. An inner voice - that little "enlightened" moment.. aah, the holding on. I do hold on. Sometimes way too tightly.
I imagine releasing things, letting go, giving away.. and having compassion for myself for being this way. That is the dark side of grasping, holding.. so I bring it to light, bring it to the surface so light can shine on it. If it comes to the light, it can be delt with.. not so if it's buried in the deepest shades and I cannot see it.
A quote shared with me today:
"One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, it is by making the darkness conscious." Jung

Mandala for Annie 10x10

2010-07-25T19:43:00.002-04:00

This is one page... I'm going to do another :-)

10x10 journal for Monique

2010-07-25T19:04:00.002-04:00

In honor of the full moon in aquarius, this was the second page in Moniques journal.

I really love working on black paper. This mandala was for this very hot steamy day... and now it's ready to move on to Serena..

Be

2010-07-17T15:23:00.002-04:00

After another full week of being in the world, I finally got some time, and a book in the mail, to be with my self to create. To be creative is a most wonderful thing. I've been sneaking in some mandalas here and there, usually while I'm waiting....
I wasn't sure what I was going to do, but I managed to put some gesso and a base coat of gold on a page the other day when I received the book.. waiting patiently for the weekend.
I thought I might collage or even use some fabric, but the marker came out and I drew and then painted. It's what I really needed to do.
This is Lila's journal in our Art Saves.. Round Robin
And now to finish up a violin.

Frisbee mandalas

2010-07-09T19:15:00.003-04:00

At camp the boys designed their frisbees after a little inspiration of some mandalas I made. It was fun to watch them create and of course, some got into it more than others. I had hoped there were some extras, but nope.. next year, I'll order more.
Beware flying mandalas...

Peace and Quiet

2010-07-02T20:01:00.002-04:00

We took a few days to go upstate for some relaxation. This was a real do nothing get away. Sitting on the porch watching clouds go by. Listening to the sounds of nature. Watching and observing birds, rabbits... feeling the breeze. It was perfect weather. Very condusive to bringing me into bliss-state.
I did a little mandala art... a LOT of reading... a little shopping in Woodstock.. and eating the most delicious corn and salmon.. Thanks Jake :-)

Taking some walks by the "creek" to listen to the water, watching some tubers and these ducks. They were so cute and very fast.. especially when the tubers came!

This rabbit hung around almost every day. We shared space together, quietly.

Going into nature to spend some time is one of the most healing things we could have done. John was definitely more revitalized by it. A deep appreciation for this gift of time.. time to share with my son and his girlfriend... for John and me to share together without distractions - or not too many anyway...

peace and quiet.. what we need to give to ourselves more often.

No tv. No phone.

Away from doing.

Just being.

quiet.

Art Saves... Ily's journal

2010-06-16T15:11:00.002-04:00

This is my page in Ily's canvas journal.
It took a while to get to but I finally had a day "off" from most obligations, work, appointments... and was determined to get some art done.
Our theme of "Art Saves.." has had me mostly focused on how it saves me, but with this I have been more focused on how it has saved us.. We who inhabit this amazing and beautiful planet.
We humans have always created some form of art and so that tells me Art is here for a reason. We need it in our lives. From the earliest cave drawings to our modern digital art and all of it in between... art has saved us.
It helps us to deal with all the external stuff that surrounds us.. all the chaos.. all painful experiences. But it also helps us with grasping the beauty that surrounds us, trying the capture and hold on to it.. Assimilate it into our being.
Art is not just for artists but it is for everyone. How can we not live with art in our lives?
Unimaginable.
So, this page, for Ily, is my message of art spreading out to the four corners of the earth, radiating with love for all of us.. for all of the earth.
May art in all it's magic always be a part of your life.
Namaste'

10x10 RR for Valeria

2010-06-07T07:29:00.003-04:00

I added a rhinestone in the middle... didn't delete the bottom picture though...
Val sent a really nice watercolor book and some watercolors as well... but... I used my twinkling H2O's instead. I haven't used them in a while and just love them. What won't show up is the glimmer that have. I added a bit of gel pen too for some added sparkle and I'm also thinking that white spot in the middle may need a tiny rhinestone. I took out the pan pastels for the edges and on top of the writing. For you Valeria, hope you enjoy it. It is a window for you. Open it up and let all the beauty of the world flow in to you.
And may love always be there no matter what direction you travel.
Namaste'
Doreen

Carmen's book

2010-05-28T07:41:00.003-04:00

I spent some time last night working in Carmen's book, finally getting to finish it. I find it kind of funny how I waited for her book because I had these intentions of what I was going to do...but you know how that goes! With all that was going on, my idea went south on me, so I decided to start with a mandala and work from there and just allow it to unfold. Isn't that the best way to approach art anyway :-)
Of course the sparkle won't show as well here.. but enjoy it my friend. Carmen is my inspiration in following my dreams and this work was a message for me to keep doing just that!

10x10 For Ily

2010-05-13T19:01:00.002-04:00

Of course I made this in Ily's book and it is for her, but it is also for me. The hardest part of doing these books is making a decision on what to do, what materials to use. I've been in a collage mode lately, so I went with it. No matter what medium, there is always a message revealed to me later on. Someone else may get something else out of it, but I found certain things amusing - what my subconscious had to say...
After painting the background and spraying it with a bit of glittery spray which no doubt will not show here.. and then I ripped images, just stuff, randomly, but what I found interesting as well.
As I began layering and fitting things together, I tried to make it flow. I moved and rearranged things quite a few times until I found or it found its place.
Then the messages appeared.
The cycle of life, the different stages of existence. I found a paper mache' tree and put the paper bag "house" there on top. We owe our lives to trees. Our breath and so much more...
I guess it's mostly about transforming. We change. From our youthful days where time didn't matter to aging and holding on to our appearances. Painting our hair, surrounding ourselves in beauty. Everything changes.. new growth and then eventually death.
How do we remain calm, serene and how do we maintain the state of wonder, observing the miraculous life all around us.. Amazing beauty, amazing world we live in.. and then chaos strikes. Let's not forget that mind-boggeling chaos that surrounds us and we work so hard at figuring it all out. We lose our balance for awhile... and then, we come back home to ourselves. We see a bigger picture. We move through the fears and grow a deeper faith. There is a light, a divine light that enters us... touches us and it brings us back to the wonder and the miraculous life once again.
Trust. It is my message to trust the Universe.
It all flows together. We all feed off one another. We are touched by serendipitous moments... messages that call to us. Yes. You are on the path. You are ok. Trust.

Flow with it - don't resist. Play while you are here for it is a short journey.
Create.
Love.
Enjoy it all.
Namaste'

10x10 in Shay's book

2010-04-26T09:48:00.002-04:00

I couldn't scan this as it cut off the edge, so I took a picture and not a very good one... oh well. Hopefully it's in Coby's hands at this point. Waiting for the next book.... I was torn on this and what I felt like doing, so I doodled around the edge and then just HAD to do a flower mandala.. Fireblossom :-) If it were still in my hands, I'd probably keep filling in the space. click on it for a closer look....

Art Saves RR - Gemma's book

2010-04-25T16:22:00.002-04:00

A mandala for Gemma. Not totally sure I'm done with this, but I'm also trying not to clutter it up too much... I used metallic and pearl paint and added a bit of glitter glaze to the outside part, so I am sure this picture won't give the full impact of that. A clear heart gem for the center.
I focused on the heart chakra for this.. heart and hand. I almost used the daVinci quote: "Where the spirit does not work with the hand, there is no art". Instead I spoke from my own heart :-)
Hope you enjoy this Gemma... and now to work on your tag.

The Reception

2010-04-24T08:44:00.002-04:00

When the work is up and it's time to celebrate, this too becomes a favorite moment. I get to share with parents the joy of "playing" with their children.

They are so proud of their work. This municipal building holds two floors of their art and the kids get so excited going from floor to floor, finding their art and photos.

A budding romance???

I wonder who gets more joy... me or the kids...

Children's art show

2010-04-18T08:37:00.002-04:00

These are a few of the boards that will be part of the children's art show this month. This is part of week of the young child. I hold art classes for preschoolers, and while working with them, I take photos of them.. because it's really all about the process. Along with the art and photos are quotes. If you click on the picture, you might be able to read them. These are only 4 of 32.. plus sculptures in a case. I so enjoy working with these children, capturing their moments of creative expression... one of the highlights of my work.

I give them black circles and shapes and let them explore... some are so typical of the mandala stage of their drawings.

Playing with clay is one of my favorites.. and beading. Such concentration in their faces. And the pure joy of discovering new things.

and then there is this printing project. I give them soft blocks in various shapes and let them "build" on paper. Of course being a messy project, this usually turns out the be one of the projects that produce the best pictures of colorful hands. Those I will save for the next post :-)

Today is our reception... looking forward to seeing these cutie-pies and their excitment. Kind of cool having your art exhibited at 3 years old!

10x10 Round Robin Journal

2010-03-28T10:42:00.004-04:00

This is another, yes, a different round robin that I also joined. It has gotten me into the back room.. the art room that needs a major cleaning up! These get mailed out Monday for Coby to create in... "Have fun Coby" and then will move on to 8 more creative souls. I'll be posting here on this blog as books come through. It will be hard to do just one page, but will refrain myself. Sometimes it is just so hard to stop.

The problem lies in what to do.. which medium to choose. I started out painting, but also wanted to collage... but the pen, the zentangle/mandalas help to get me centered. They quiet my mind from the worlds distractions.

Thanks Ileana for inviting me to play. I needed it.

For Karen

2010-03-20T08:23:00.002-04:00

In our RR canvas journals "Art Saves", I have received Karen's book. She did a page with a Klimt images and I love Klimt. It was immediately inspired when I saw her page and I knew I would use gold. My original idea though was something different.
Instead, it turned into the "klimt-style" tree. Unfortunately, metallic paint and glittery accents don't show up so nicely so you'll get to see it much better when it reaches your hands. (those participating, anyway)
I took a walk yesterday and it was so nice to see crocuses.. white, purple and tiny buds on the trees. I was thinking about how much I appreciate Spring after a challenging Winter.. You who live in paradise type environments where the weather is mild most of the year... I wonder if you take it for granted. Do you lose the magic of these small buds.. these tiny miracles of life!
I am in awe all over again. GREEEEEN!!!!! COLOR!!! LIFE!!
It's actually happening. Today I welcome Spring with wide open arms today at 1:32 pm.

A use for a box

2010-03-16T09:21:00.002-04:00

This box held some yummy chocolate crunchy cookies given to me by a yoga student... best was the box! It has a magnetic clasp to hold it shut and it was a perfect size to hold the canvas book. It also contains a bag of "goodies" that you, the participants can draw from for whatever your heart desires to use it for.... and the sign in tag. It's not attached. I used a coffee filter for the pocket to hold colorful cards with various words on them. Pick one and sign in and play :-)
I put the box into a bag... one of those padded things from the PO, but "you" do what ever you need to do to send it, but I do want the box to stay nice... Maybe I'll paint it when it returns home.

Looking forward to the next journal................

RR - open spread and links :-)

2010-02-27T10:25:00.003-05:00

Here's the second page in the RR canvas book. Needing some color, I think this is the antidote to Winter :-) This actually triggered the paint response in me.. I needed to keep painting, so I did. Picked up another canvas I started and then another.. I'll post those later on.
Snow day yesterday = art day.
Others participating... take a look :-)
Susie/Angie http://crinkleroot.blogspot.com/

Gemma/Linda http://gemmasjournal.blogspot.com/

shari http://teainbohemia.blogspot.com/

Serena http://dreamwiththefishes.blogspot.com/

Karen http://deldino.blogspot.com/

Lila http://artycollagesanddolls.blogspot.com/

Scarlet/Ileana http://littleredhare.blogspot.com/

Carmen http://heartandsoulgardening.blogspot.com/

Art Saves Lives - Round Robin

2010-02-22T08:29:00.003-05:00

I'm participating in a Round Robin again... (getting over my fear of lost art)
I love doing this, but it broke my heart when another book disappeared with the last RR..
(But I'm over it :-)
and it's because art heals and it can save your life!
This is one page, the other is still in progress.
First some gesso and then I painted and I just HAD to use that stamp. I was in a painting mood mostly, but I did add fabric for the dress and the sign is stamped on card stock.
I'm not sure about the cover yet. Not sure if I want to do it now or later.
Now would mean it would be less bulky and most likely easier to deal with, but I may want to see the overall book and the flavor of it.. to tie it all in.
Still up in the air about it.
Most certainly, I will have fun with it!

Two sides of the coin

2010-01-25T08:49:00.002-05:00

This is titled, "Angry Bird, Happy Fish"
Go ahead and find each one of them... maybe with just a tilt of the head.
Living this life of duality, we come upon situations and it is our response to them that brings about that feeling of peacefullness, contentment, the allowing and going with the flow... OR we resist, kick, scream, have a tantrum, worry, fear and move into doubt and want to hide under the covers.
Sometimes it's easy and sometimes it not. Why is it that at one time, I can easily accept, while other times I just cannot. I get frustrated, angry, become fearful, doubtful and wonder what the heck I am doing here?????????????
And then... shift... someone comes along and helps you... oh, life IS good again. It is a lesson in patience sometimes.. sometimes, faith, trust.
Sometimes the lesson is deeper and more time consuming. It causes us to slow down and take a look within. Something we haven't done in awhile. It makes us humble.
We needed to change our perspective.. we needed to grow.
What we once saw as the wrong side of the coin, was some blessing (in disquise) and it brought good changes. We just couldn't see it at the time.
We were too caught up in fear.
My prayer: to have fearless bliss.
But in order to move towards it, we need to move t h r o u g h the fear and come out the other side. Ok, it's scary, but I'll do it anyway... that kind of thing.
Two sides: love and fear... same coin. Have you loved something so deeply, but feared not having it, being rejected, losing it...
Maybe we need to love our fears. Tend to them, cradled them and bless them... say, "it's ok, but we are going to try anyway, because I love much more than I fear."
Today I am a happy fish :-)

I am back :-)

2010-01-22T10:01:00.001-05:00

So there! you nasty little mean thing that was hidden in the computer.. take that! I now have an amazing computer guru....Thanks Hugo :-)

Miss you blogger

2010-01-20T14:03:00.003-05:00

I have not fallen off the face of the earth.. I just don't have my computer and even when I did have it, I could not get onto blogger.. why? I haven't a clue. I sure don't like not having access either. I will persist, though.
Until I figure this out.. have fun out there :-)

Return to the Sacred

2009-12-06T09:31:00.002-05:00

I decided to return to the practice of Sacred Life Sundays. It's been pretty crazy for awhile and blogging hasn't been the top priority, even though I love it.

One issue has been the computer itself. I'm not going to dwell on all the "wrong" stuff.. or let's say the challenges.

Rather, I will be thankful for all the good that goes on in my life.

Here's one of them.. my work.

The ultimate pleasure of watching children create.. discovering that the spiral fits perfectly inside that hole in the square! How joyful it is watching children play, explore, and allowing the messiness of it all.

How blessed my life is to be doing work with these children.

It is the time of the year to look back and see how many blessing I have actually had..

The art show with my husband who sold his first piece of art.

Not bad for his first showing!!!!

Getting closer to family. With the death of my sister in law, I have come to know my mother in law on a much deeper level and have had the blessing of her wisdom bestowed on us.

Being grateful and saying thank you to all of it.. even the stuff that is challenging, because that is where we grow.

My brother stayed at my mom's awhile, and it was so nice to have him around. I love talking to my brother, sharing our ideas, experiences.. helping each other work through "stuff".

It was so great having him here, helping with the caretaking of our mom.

And that is only the beginning....

A new venue...

2009-11-22T09:10:00.003-05:00

The work is down from the gallery and now it moves on to the town house.. into the case in the lobby. Anyone living in Harrison, NY or the surrounding area can take a peek if they missed the first show... Recycle into Art, the reincarnation of the cigar box...

The Show is up :-)

2009-10-03T10:01:00.001-04:00

Art Exhibit pictures are here

A quick update...

2009-09-20T17:15:00.003-04:00

Since we've gotten back from vacation, dear hubby and I have been focused on our collaborative exhibit.
It's at Masterpiece Framing on Halstead Ave. in Harrison... just in case you're nearby and would like to stop by.
After the show, I'll put up the pictures of my work. They are assemblages and shrines and I am having a blast in creating them. Ideas transform, each morphing into something else - inspiring even more ideas. LOVE IT!
I've begun my art classes and I'm back to yoga as well, both holding some surprises for me.
Expect the unexpected... Uranus... opposing Saturn. Still holding on to some old "stuff".
But life is good.. moving along in an interesting manner.
Merc being in retrograde will be blamed for me not getting on my blogs again. I'm at my MIL's house using the computer there. Thus, no pictures.
I really don't like blogging without pictures, and I rather not blog at all without them.
BUT... these blogs need an update, b a d l y.... and here I am.
so... get off the computer and go create something :-)

Woodstock

2009-08-24T22:10:00.004-04:00

Where else?

"Talisman" store window (one of my favorite stores in Woodstock)

a most colorful town. a fun place, but I have been saddened by some of the "missing" stores. Bead store is gone :-(

but a new photography gallery opened up :-)

Changes.

Hanging out :-)
Having fun, eating great food at Oriole 9 and finding the best books at Maribai.

Peace.

Done.

2009-08-15T08:37:00.002-04:00

Camp was a struggle for me this year.. too many things going on, with little "down" time for myself. The time we all need to restore and renew ourselves.. It had it's moments though....

It was when I had fun creating with the kids. We made power sticks. I told them with these "sticks" came the responsibility to take care of the Earth. They created the sticks with intention, using animal skin paper to represent the different energies that they represented to them and each feather represented a different element... I love working with children and watching the power that play has on them. Allowing them to create and to be able to play. It's wonderful to watch... and I found myself getting pulled into it myself. Playing.. yelling out "POWER!"

and teaching them how important it was to take care of the Earth.. Water.. Air..

Talking and listening to them.. what their favorite animal was, the use of Sun as power.

This is where my heart lies. This is what I've come to realize this summer: That my heart lies in teaching, healing, creating with children... on my own terms. More on that later.

Vacation beckons me now. I am off to restore in the mountains and by the stream, finding my balance again.

I'm baaaaaaaaaackk

2009-07-01T08:18:00.002-04:00

I've been doing a mandala a day now.. not sure how many day's but it's been steady and haven't skipped a day. They're small but sometimes so intricate they take a bit of time and other times, quick.
Yesterday, I went back to some and added to them. I love mandalas. They bring peace to me. Quiet. A stillness that I can use to help me center.
The above is called, A gift for you and done in sharpies. They smell too much and don't really like using them, but I love the smoothness of the color applied.

This is called Showering you with love. Unfolding my love - unraveling it, opening up to you and showering down upon you all that love that fills my heart. I think we are not always aware of how much love we have stored inside until we open up and let loose and we surprise ourself.. More.. more... keep it flowing. Feed the seeds and let those blooms open up and shower even more love.
So now, I have more blogs than I can probably handle but right now, I am soo very happy!!!

Moved :-)

2009-06-01T14:48:00.003-04:00

Come see me at http://doegrozart.wordpress.com for the main blogging and for my art, mandalas mostly... go to http://mandalas4me.wordpress.com
I really miss these blogs but until I figure out what I did and fix it, I'll be blogging over at wordpress... and hey, I may just stay there...
I cannot access my blogs, accept (or deny) any comments either on my own computer. I'm at the library which is why I am here.
Come by to say hi... I'm still figuring out the new blog, but I did put up my felted bag, so come see. It's at the mandala blog.

Mercury Retrograde!

2009-05-19T15:55:00.002-04:00

Most of the retrogrades, I get by without too much of a problem, but I've been WHAMED! by this one.... I'm not on my own computer which is why I can access it. I cannot sign in... what comes up is that it cannot be displayed. Tried all sorts of ways, but no dice!
Yeah. this #%@*!
First my car died, then the computer had this bogus virus detector that I couldn't get rid of. It sounded like a wild chicken and scared the shit out of you... had to mute it :-)
I did get rid of it by restoring the computer and am thinking maybe that is what I need to do again. ... very frustrating.
I won't go into too much of the other stuff happening in life, but just wanted you all to know, I miss my blogging and I'm not giving up!
Life!
If you leave me a comment, I can get it in my email, but won't be able to add the comment - approve it... but hey, you out there in blogland.. if you know of any way to get my blogs back, try to leave the comment and we'll see what happens.
May Mercury be kind to you!
Peace and Love

Missing something...

2009-05-05T08:32:00.002-04:00

This is my cousin "driving" the elephant. I haven't been blogging for awhile, mostly because I've been busy working on projects, teaching classes, taking care of family. I try to sneak in some art here and there, but what I have right now are a bunch of half-finished projects sitting in the art room... waiting patiently for my return. For the most part, it's because my room became too cluttered.
I did go back there yesterday, but it was mostly to excavate my closet. The path to it was blocked with bags of stuff. Stuff from classes, bags of paints from various client's projects, bags of stuff from camp!
I found stuff :-) my ribbon hole punch that I wondered where it was. I found more paint, fabric, beads, and all sorts of bits of stuff.
Good news is I probably don't need to do any more shopping for classes for the rest of the school year and doing this cleansing triggered the creative mind. I can also get to my closet.
Maybe that is why I was "clogged"... physically (nose congestion) and creatively! (This is the creativity center- Feng Shui)
So many projects came to a halt and just sat there.
Something is missing.. but what?
I'm missing adventure what my thought.
I told John I needed to do something exciting. When he asked me what I thouht it was, I felt at loss for what it is I actually want.. is it travel? or is it just the need for some major project to be passionate about. (like the art show that I just did)
This time last year and the year before I was with my friend in Peru. I love Peru, but I don't think I need to go back there... and not sure if there is another place calling me.
Maybe it is art I'm missing.
I had visions of painting off and on during the night.. not sure if I were dreaming or just having visions, but I think it is a call that needs to be answered. I'm sure I'll find the answers there as I usually do... I'm pretty sure it's not driving an elephant though.

Thank you for your beauty

2009-04-19T08:51:00.002-04:00

Are you here?

Are you finally here???
I think I have never appreciated Spring more in my entire life!

And now, it is time to face the sun and move forward.

Awaken from the deep slumber of winter and gather up all those thoughts and ideas and manifest them into the most amazing works of art!

YES!

You ARE here!

Uncle Sal

2009-03-01T09:27:00.003-05:00

My Uncle Sal died on Ash Wednesday at 98 years old. His beloved wife had gone before him, leaving him alone (kind of) and I think he waited for this day to finally be with her.

Together again.

I looked for a picture I had of him, holding me as a young child.

I remember dancing with him in my grandmother's living room, me standing on his shoes, carrying me along with each step.

He told me once that he liked being with me when he came here because he did not speak english and I hardly spoke at all, but I always agreed with him.

He smiled a lot. Laughed a lot.. always had the smoothest skin.

And he, like my grandfather had figs.

They were the master gardeners, always giving us surprises from their gardens...

but the figs, they were the best!

So, I decided to post pictures of the figs.

You will always be remembered as being as sweet as they were.

Yes, that's a NO

2009-02-23T11:29:00.003-05:00

Yes comes out of my mouth more often than not... thus, I usually overcommit. Yes is good and nice and friendly and a part of the wanting experience. I want to try everything (safe :-) and saying yes also helps me to push the boundaries and try to reach out of my safety zone regarding art. I'm not a risk-taker physically.
Sometimes No means yes... Yes to myself. How appropriate this came in my mailbox this morning from Susan Gregg:
"If we can't say no to people we aren't really able to say yes either. If we aren't comfortable putting ourselves first, if we aren't willing to love ourselves enough to do say no, we can't freely say yes. If we don't love ourselves we can't really love others either. Give yourself permission to say NO so you can say yes to the magic and wonders of life.
With love and aloha,
Susan
"This stuff seems like brainwashing," said the student."Your brain needs washing," replied the teacher.http://susangregg.com/meditationvideo.htm

She headed it with "No is a complete sentence". Love it. Simple. No explanations or whining.. just say no. No meaning yes.. to me that is.
This morning I gave myself a little bit of yes time.
and the ideas and inspiration came flooding in.
centered.
focused.
being with myself.
such a wonderful gift....
today give yourself some YES or No.. depends on how you look at it.
Love and Light,
Doreen

Full Moon

2009-02-09T11:29:00.004-05:00

Coming out of Traders, this big luminous moon followed us home. Beautiful watching it peak behind trees and pinkish clouds, balance on house tops and light up our bedroom last night.
A lunar eclipse too happened this morning. It actually happened in my 12th house..at 21 degrees Leo...
What mysteries will be unveiled with this moon?? This is the house of secrets. It's also the house of the mystical and spiritual... tonight I receive the DayKeeper's Rite, the 5th of the Munay Ki rites. The house of emotions rather than the head, so I'm expecting to "get it" on a deeper emotional level.
May your day be FULL of blessed events.

Solar Return

2009-01-30T09:57:00.002-05:00

My very cute husband knocked on the door yesterday evening.. holding a dozen roses and a chocolate cake :-) Today is my birthday and I get to look at these beauties all day long...
I'm feeling that this year will be an exceptionally good one. Jupiter is in Aquarius for the year and in my 5th house of creativity hanging out with my sun... Expansion is key word for Jupiter.
So my goals are to be expansive in my art.. to be courageously colorful.. fully expressive. As art should be.
I've got lots going on.. dolls, mandalas, art journals, oil painting and a "green" project that I'll share later on. My classes are expanding and I may even open up a new preschool class. People still call me for yoga classes.. EXPANSION!
Yesterday, I was at a client's house exploring various ideas in creating in her home. Lots of work there for me.. and fun stuff.
I had someone ask me if I was being effected by the economy.. I looked at her and said "in a good way"... my classes grew from last session. I have a belief. Live rightly. Do the best you can. Be honest. Offer something for the good of humanity and don't rip people off.
I am rich in love and friendships and work that I love and that is all that matters.
I'm working on my abundance dolls... yes, two. Mostly because it allows me options to try stuff that I may not do if I only had one.. and I may make more.
New class in Shrines is next with Chaska.
and now to go smell the roses............

Allow

2009-01-09T13:01:00.002-05:00

In Mandala Oasis group, we discussed choosing a word for the new year.. simple one word or small phrase.

Mine is Allow. I chose it because it helps me to be more in the present moment and not resist what is going on in the present time. Being here Now and not regretting or worrying which takes one into the past and future.

I tend to be more future oriented. There have been times when I truly regretted stuff, and could get stuck in the past here and there, but for the most part, I drop it.

I am more into wanting to know, wanting to prepare as best I can for the future... and we all know how THAT goes :-)

"Man plans, God laughs" by some wise person.

Allowing helps me to Be. It's that state one gets into when creating, so absorbed, all else fades into the background. Time becomes no-time.

It's interesting how when one focuses on something, the Universe responds in like... all the more reason to focus on the good stuff. Today I opened an email from yesterdays extremely busy mailbox. It is an Abraham-Hicks quotes:

We would like you to release the word "achieve" or "earn" from your vocabulary and from your understanding, altogether, and we would like you to replace those words with the word "allow". You're wanting to allow your Well-being, not achieve it. It's not something that you need to earn. All you have to do is decide what it is you would like to experience, and then allow it in order to achieve it. It isn't something you have to struggle for or try for. You are all worthy beings. You are deserving of this Well-being.

I chose allow to keep me grounded and not feel overwhelmed by stuff. When I look at the big picture, seeing all that needs to be done, anxiety creeps in.. Allowing helps me put one foot in front of the other. Be with what I am doing. The rest takes care of itself.

No sense in worrying about tomorrow and what I have to do before then, because sometimes the Universe throws us a curve ball and gives us a blizzard instead.

Allowing releases stress. It brings acceptance. It helps to bring one to appreciate the cycles of life, following the seasons, resting when it's appropriate and moving when it's time.

Allowing helps me to be who I am. Allowing my Self to Be - To Shine......

A day at the beach

2008-12-31T08:49:00.002-05:00

A walk at the beach is soothing for the soul... especially in winter. Water is healing. The day was still cold, in the 40's but warm compared to some of the previous teen temps we had. Many took advantage of the day... some soaking up the sun. One just in his shorts!

Bare naked trees show their true form and gulls gather flying against the brilliant blue sky... stopping along the way to observe.. Where have I been and where am I going? ok, that's not the bird, that's me.

some trees aren't so naked, wrapped in leaves.. green ones, no less... and then we play hide and seek with the light......

What is Sacred in Life?

2008-12-08T11:49:00.000-05:00

Working with Children

a video to share with you :-)

2008-11-26T11:58:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpunQZ4cUyI
ART.... Yes, you ought to :-)
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!
Grateful for your visits
thanks :-)

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-05T07:16:00.005-05:00

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

OH HAPPY DAY :-)

HOPE AGAIN!!!!

THE LAST OF AN IDIOT PRESIDENT!

YES, to a man that I can actually LISTEN to :-)

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO VOTED FOR CHANGE AND HOPE

TO BRING THIS COUNTRY BACK TO A PLACE WHERE ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE....

(and now I won't have to move)

YES!

LIFE IS GOOD :-)

Meanwhile, a Venus-Neptune supportive, 60-degree contact from Sagittarius to Aquarius (4:58AM PST) offers millions an olive branch of hope that somehow the human race will keep on trucking toward a brighter future.

(this from the cosmic calender)

Please Vote

2008-11-04T07:55:00.002-05:00

I'm finding this quite interesting that the two Planets Saturn and Uranus are in exact opposition today... What the heck does that mean??
Well, these two major planets are slower moving and therefore effect us all as a group as well as individually. Depending on where they are in your chart (house position) will determine what issues will be effected for you on a more personal level...
But on a more global level..
Think on this: (taken from the Cosmic Calender)
(I put in the bold lines)
p.s. you could also substitute McCain for Saturn and Obama for Uranus.

-- the first of five Saturn-Uranus oppositions (5:34AM PST) stretching out until late July of 2010. To say this is challenging is the understatement of the year. These planets form polarities around every 43 -- 45 years. They are definite rivals in which battle lines are drawn between the past and the future, tradition versus innovation, order versus rebellion, logic versus intuition, the status-quo versus revolutionary changes, and the list goes on. The fact that an American presidential election happens today -- not just influencing the USA, but also the entire world -- is par for the course that the universe loves to tinker with human affairs and earthly happenings. Everyone now has to do a delicate balancing act -- internally and externally -- as these two giant planetary archetypes push us all to the brink. Fear (Saturn) is now in many ways combating the urge toward liberation (Uranus). Nevertheless, the shattering of old bounds and established ways of doing things is always unsettling and, in this case, can be true on a massive, shocking scale. Keep in mind that the Moon is still void and thereby in unreliable shape until it enters Aquarius (4:03PM PST). Thereafter, it's a good idea to focus your gaze on group projects, team sports, community events, national goals, global causes and fulfilling your higher destiny.
Mercury enters Scorpio (8:01AM PST) until November 22. This ingress by the fleet-footed Messenger of the Gods encourages research, detective work, ferreting out secrets and learning more about ancient cultures and civilizations.
Another important polarity occurs today -- Venus in Sagittarius opposing Juno in Gemini (3:48AM PST) -- bringing in a sharp focus of the feminine confrontation that mimics the masculine divide symbolized by Saturn at loggerheads with Uranus.
Stay alert and write down inspirations in a special journal as Mercury makes supportive, 60-degree ties to Ceres (1:55PM PST) and Juno (11:43PM PST).
Copyright, 2007 Mark Lerner & Great Bear Enterprises, Ltd.

YES WE CAN

2008-10-31T11:05:00.003-04:00

I am optimistic that enough people are ready to see some change in our government. Personally, I believe we all need to begin with ourselves and not rely on the government to "solve" our problems but that is the ideal in me.
There are some things that we need to rely on them for and therefore I am being optimistic that this change is coming...
that we can focus on love rather than fear. Peace instead of war.
So please go out and vote...
VOTE FOR THE ISSUES... KNOW THE TRUTH.