“She was warned. She was given an explanation. Nevertheless, she persisted.” She will not be silenced. Neither should we.

The world seems to be becoming more divisive. We are focusing on our differences at the expense of our similarities. This is one of my favorite quotes from Maya Angelou. A good reminder that “we are more alike my friends, than we are unalike”. Love each other. Hate never solved any problems.

We are facing stormy days.. feels like there is some kind of protest springing up around the country everyday. And we are flitting from one craziness to the next. Sometimes I wonder when I will wake up from this nightmare.

As always when I paint my girls, I have no idea in mind. Simply a posture I am interested in. And when she emerges, she has a message for me. In this case, a poem from Atticus.

“There was a storm in her eyes

Rocky seas from a hundred stormy nights

But also there was a light

A warm wind

From a distant shore

So that’s where I headed

Towards the light

That shone in her eyes

With gentle seas.”

I love the words of Maya Angelou. They bring me hope, joy and inspiration. Given the craziness of this week, I needed to surround myself with her words and my favorite things… colors, flowers, hearts, doodles, butterflies, dragonflies… thank you Maya. 

Close up pics. Acrylic paint, molding paste, glitter, collage, doodles, stamp. 

I believe in PINK. I believe in LOVE. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest. I believe that art isn’t paint. It’s LOVE. I believe that I CAN and I WILL. 

Mixed media painting in my altered book journal. Acrylic paint, molding paste, glitter glue, collage doodle, gesso and stamps. 

Here are some close ups. 

I used to be a shopaholic. Now I am a wanderluster. A collector of experiences, not things. Have always loved traveling. So much wonder in this wonderful world around us. So much to see, so little time… I am always thankful to be home after each travel. To recharge, to get ready to explore again. 

Mixed media page on my altered book art journal. Acrylic paint, ink and collage. 

Today is a historical moment. Thousands of women from all over the world came together to march, to let their voices be heard. I wasn’t able to attend the march but I was watching it all day on TV and through the posts from my friends on social media. Interestingly, I did not feel angry or frustrated at the end of the day. It was peaceful and importantly, it was inspiring to see so many strong women coming together, united, speaking out.

At the same time, I have not been painting for a while due to travels and family stuff. I was finally able to get a few minutes at my art table today and she popped up. I love her softness. But don’t underestimate her, she may look soft on the outside but she is strong on the inside. This girl will fight back when needed.

To all the women who marched today, I salute you and I am with you. I am proud to be a woman.

It is January and I am already thinking of the ocean.

I love the ocean. It cleanses my soul. It is where I am the happiest and at peace.

This quote really spoke to me. The ocean is where I visit to find myself. To be myself.

Perhaps it’s time for a trip to the beach?

Watercolor painting. Trying to keep my paining loose.

Last day of 2016. Glad it is coming to an end. While I am uncertain of what the future holds, a new beginning always bring new hope and inspiration. I am ready. Ready to live fully… Love boldly…Live from my heart.

Cheers to 2017! May it be a year filled with love, hugs, laughter, yoga, painting, dancing, sunshine, friendship, kindness, peace, inspiration, good reads, snuggles, magic, dreams, fine wine, fine company..

Seeing the northern lights is on my bucket list. I will get there one day. I will. 

In the meantime, I will attempt to paint it. This is a big deal for me as I am terrible at painting landscapes. That’s why I never paint landscapes. 

This was hard for me but I am glad I pushed myself. Will try again and again until I am better at it. 

I BELIEVE.