Creative Courage

I love paper - journals, cards, invitations, garlands, wrapping - you name it!  And as some of you already know I have expressed a desire to own my own paper shop specializing in paper products - mainly cards and invitations.  In the past I've created invitations for our wedding rehearsal dinner, parties, birthday cards, and other miscellaneous projects.

I had high hopes for opening an Etsy shop in 2011 but throughout the year I felt the inspiration draining from me.  This led to my temporary break from blogging.

Where did all my inspiration and creative energy go?  What happened to my motivation? 

I was feeling overwhelmed with the whole creative process.  Randomly back in November I stumbled across (I do quite a bit of 'stumbling' on the internet, isn't it a wonderful place?!) Stephanie Levy's blog and found myself signing up for her Creative Courage e-course.  This class is all about building confidence and jumpstarting your creative drive!  From her blog:  "Creative Courage is a practical guide that will help you clarify your own unique path and give you the tools you need to start making your goals real...".  This seven week course starts on Monday!

Just what I needed.

I received an email from Stephanie today welcoming me to class and announcing that there are still a few spots available.  I want to pass the word along to you!  I believe this will be a very fulfilling experience for me and I'm hoping to find the "creative courage" to continue on my [paper] path.

Open Your Heart

I truly believe.  Open your heart (and ears).

Keep Moving, Moving, Moving!

"The great thing in this world is not so much where you stand, as in what direction you are moving."  [Oliver Wendell Holmes]

I just love these shots from Egypt - everyone in motion!

James and I are heading to the coast tomorrow for a friend's wedding and then spending Sunday with our dads, starting with breakfast in the Bay Area and ending the day with a barbeque back in town.  I hope everyone enjoys this weekend! 

Happy Friday!

Tuesday Tune

Tax season is ALMOST over but it has been a LONG road!  I spend so many hours at the office (more than I want to admit) and that leaves room for a lot of songs to keep me going!  I thought I'd share a mish-mash of what's been on my playlist for these past few months. 

What song keeps you motivated?



I dare you NOT to dance to this one!


"...without love, where would you be right now?"



C'mon April 18th!!!

Starting Off Right

"Everyday is a chance to inspire, act and succeed."

[Seattle from the Space Needle - January 2004.]


Instead of dreading every Monday morning (AKA 'The Sunday Night Blues'), why not see them as fresh starts?  Mondays aren't just back-to-work days - they mark the beginnings of a new week.  And new weeks bring new opportunities to get things done, have some fun, read a new book...etc.