I created this fabric transfer during KC’s class and coupled her image with vibrant blues and represented the blooming roses through the golden roses beneath her.  And in the script that appeared below her, I wrote “Let go of the negative.  And there will be more space for the positive.” This mantra came to me during one of my runs and I have been focused on it for about the last month.

The mantra has helped me to realize the importance of moving on after a disaster, heart break, or disappointment.  And through KC’s class I could express this mantra through fabric with Our Lady Guadalupe.  How cool is that/  KC’s class has inspired me at a level that is hard to convey.  But, what I will say is that the mantra is true in that by letting go of some of life’s craziness, I have been blessed with the chance to meet KC Willis and move my art to a different and more compelling level for me.

I hope my mantra can inspires you as well.

All the best…

With that said, I could sit here and dwell on my disappointment or I could be thankful instead for the blessing of family, friends, and art.  These things, combined with running have made a devastating year, manageable and almost tolerable.  So, with that thought I wanted to share this piece I did in KC Willis’ class last month.  

This little girl has such joy, considering she grew up in a time when we were not allowed to vote, lived in a segregated society, and could at best dream of becoming a maid.  She exudes joyfulness and makes anyone that sees her smile.  So, I thought I would reflect on her smile and remember there will be other opportunities and other disappointments much more powerful than a missed race.  And if I can just stay focused on positive thought, I may not be able to avoid the disappointments, but I can keep focused on my blessings and be thankful for what I have.  And that will make what ever the difficulty, better faster than I could hope. 

All the best…

Two fun challenges in a row!!  I really liked this week’s challenge.  I originally was going to do a more traditional ornament.  But, I was so taken by my class last week with Kelly last week and all that has happened this month; I decided to do a Little Book of Hope.  

I picked some of my most festive decorative papers.  Then I created the cover using two cool papers and adding this little piece of left over fringe for the bottom.  I then stitched the book together to create a Fukoro Toji (see last week’s Mixed Media post).  Right before I stitched the book together I placed ribbon down the middle to create the hanger for the book.  As I commented a few months ago, “your thoughts create your future”.  As such, inside of my little book of Hope, I am collaging all the things that I hope for now and in the future.  This just puts a smile on my face and lifts my spirit.

What a cool challenge for the week.  I hope all of you have a great week!