Trying to clear my head at the moment...just get in it, get out of it, and everything in between. Conferences, while often anticipated for the travel, the change of pace, and the promise of face time with my colleagues, does indeed bring a crash. I remember my first APAP and the crash that followed. It was like the day after Christmas. Many moons have passed since then but I still experience it. I was cranky last week, no doubt just trying to get caught up on sleep and tie up loose ends before the next trip. Midwest was terrific - easier, busier, great meetings, a great session, meaningful connections. I felt for a moment, brilliant. And PAE was...well, when I get out my own head and get perspective, even a better sense of space and time, it was decent. Especially given that I didn't know any southerners. I made a lot of new connections and that does matter in the long run.
It's hard to not compare the two conferences. Each has its own mission and values and personalities. Hard to not compare my experiences at one versus another. They were both decent in their own way. I long for consistency and pay off. I suppose it will eventually happen.
It's also hard (for me) to not always be thinking, what's next? What is the next goal to achieve? It's hard to be in the moment. Be content and appreciative and grateful of this time and this experience. That overachieving side of me is one of my greatest strengths but also a weakness since it can eat away at a sense of worth. It's easy to let myself be defined by a series of achievements and met goals. I'm remembering a TED talk about how it's important (and often enough at times) to just show up. To show up, bring our best, put the time in and do it. Not every day is magic or brilliant.
Not every conference or meeting or moment is awesome and most probably won't be.
Not every piece of art I create is stellar or needs to be stellar.
So accepting that and being OK with showing up and creating for the sake of creating...that's enough. And in the world of conferencing and artist representation, I need to find a way to be OK with the mundane. I suspect these two are related. If I can get back to some things that I've missed for some time, namely creating some art, I think I will find an inner peace that will allow me to feel like the hard and smart work of each day is enough, and will in time, allow for another moment of brilliance.
Showing posts with label Motivation | Reflection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motivation | Reflection. Show all posts
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Monday, September 17, 2012
Some people are just moody souls sometimes and the other night at the opening party my mentor was in a mood. I let it go and did my own thing. My last words to my roommate before nodding off to slumber were, "I hope he doesn't come to my session tomorrow."
The thing is some teeny part of me thought he probably considered it. But truthfully, he doesn't attend keynotes or sessions or any of that so I never expected him to show up. At 8:05, maybe 30 seconds after I started my presentation, he walked through the door. Amazement and panic hit me in the face. I couldn't stop, I had to keep going, but it tripped me up for a few minutes. Eventually I had to not think about him being in the room and my nervous thoughts that I was "on" and was I doing a good enough job? Was I measuring up? It's easier for me to talk for 90 minutes to a group of strangers versus to one person I know. And not just know but respect and admire and whose integrity and business ethic and smarts are what I strive for as well.
Way to make me nervous.
I never looked over his way the entire time. Somehow I got through it and it was near 9:30am and as I was wrapping up he offered some additional insights to our audience. It was over, I was done, I packed up and finally breathed and took in the fact that I just led my first ever professional development session at a regional. I did it. It was tough but I did it and it was rewarding.
I fired off a text message that was - I cannot believe you came. I couldn't even look at you. Way to make me nervous. To which he replied, Sorry. You were great. I wanted to hear it.
I spent the better part of that morning "on" in the booth and decompressing and digesting. I immediately felt like he set out to make me nervous...to crash the session if you will. But slowly, I realized that wasn't the case. Let's just say building confidence as an entrepreneur is tough, even for otherwise independent confident people. I'd been fighting to find myself - both old and new versions of me. I had been realizing since November just how much BS was in my head and how easy it is to get caught up in old patterns of thinking. Thinking that people are out to make me feel nervous, "on" and to be perfect all the time so as to impress and prove myself. Something, I don't know what, got a hold of me and shook me to my senses. It's enough to show up and do what we do. It was enough to show up, in Grand Rapids, be my great self, bring my knowledge, and be part of something bigger. And people come because they care - about me. Isn't that why I go? Even when I know the material? It's for moral support. Finally, I gave myself permission to accept that I was enough and I was worthy of that. That maybe I had shown the gorgeous genius that I am and continue to be.
I circled back with a very sincere thank you...thank you for coming. It was great to have you there. So many compliments on the session, on my knowledge and on "that guy at the end" who had really thoughtful insights. He was there for me. He had my back.
This conference was the final nail in that old thinking's coffin. I realize how much support I have. Real, genuine, I believe in you and have your back, support. It's not always spoken by our colleagues and mentors but it's there. I'm liberated and very blessed.
The thing is some teeny part of me thought he probably considered it. But truthfully, he doesn't attend keynotes or sessions or any of that so I never expected him to show up. At 8:05, maybe 30 seconds after I started my presentation, he walked through the door. Amazement and panic hit me in the face. I couldn't stop, I had to keep going, but it tripped me up for a few minutes. Eventually I had to not think about him being in the room and my nervous thoughts that I was "on" and was I doing a good enough job? Was I measuring up? It's easier for me to talk for 90 minutes to a group of strangers versus to one person I know. And not just know but respect and admire and whose integrity and business ethic and smarts are what I strive for as well.
Way to make me nervous.
I never looked over his way the entire time. Somehow I got through it and it was near 9:30am and as I was wrapping up he offered some additional insights to our audience. It was over, I was done, I packed up and finally breathed and took in the fact that I just led my first ever professional development session at a regional. I did it. It was tough but I did it and it was rewarding.
I fired off a text message that was - I cannot believe you came. I couldn't even look at you. Way to make me nervous. To which he replied, Sorry. You were great. I wanted to hear it.
I spent the better part of that morning "on" in the booth and decompressing and digesting. I immediately felt like he set out to make me nervous...to crash the session if you will. But slowly, I realized that wasn't the case. Let's just say building confidence as an entrepreneur is tough, even for otherwise independent confident people. I'd been fighting to find myself - both old and new versions of me. I had been realizing since November just how much BS was in my head and how easy it is to get caught up in old patterns of thinking. Thinking that people are out to make me feel nervous, "on" and to be perfect all the time so as to impress and prove myself. Something, I don't know what, got a hold of me and shook me to my senses. It's enough to show up and do what we do. It was enough to show up, in Grand Rapids, be my great self, bring my knowledge, and be part of something bigger. And people come because they care - about me. Isn't that why I go? Even when I know the material? It's for moral support. Finally, I gave myself permission to accept that I was enough and I was worthy of that. That maybe I had shown the gorgeous genius that I am and continue to be.
I circled back with a very sincere thank you...thank you for coming. It was great to have you there. So many compliments on the session, on my knowledge and on "that guy at the end" who had really thoughtful insights. He was there for me. He had my back.
This conference was the final nail in that old thinking's coffin. I realize how much support I have. Real, genuine, I believe in you and have your back, support. It's not always spoken by our colleagues and mentors but it's there. I'm liberated and very blessed.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
On My Shoulders
We were talking about big long term plans and he had asked if I'd stay in our current house and I confided how I wanted to move...how I'd been ready to move for 2-3 years now but given the turn of events from 2009 to present day, it doesn't allow for it. I gave him the Reader Digest version of it all and summed it up with how I feel like it's my fault things aren't progressing. And he stared me straight in the eye and said - That's a whole lot of responsibility to put on your shoulders. You should try to take some of that off.
I felt vulnerable in that moment...like I suddenly realized I'd said too much. And why do I always offer so much? On the way home I thought of other specific questions I'd had and forgot to ask. Damn. But then thought - that wasn't what it was about. Sure, he's a great sounding board for business tactics and planning but he plays another role too.
He's always telling me to not be so hard on myself.
I'm always conflicted after these conversations.
I felt vulnerable in that moment...like I suddenly realized I'd said too much. And why do I always offer so much? On the way home I thought of other specific questions I'd had and forgot to ask. Damn. But then thought - that wasn't what it was about. Sure, he's a great sounding board for business tactics and planning but he plays another role too.
He's always telling me to not be so hard on myself.
I'm always conflicted after these conversations.
Saturday, May 05, 2012
Just A Little Boy
As a mom of a little guy about to be four...foreseeing endless baseball games in the coming years (and/or track meets, soccer games, etc.), I saw this today on FB and had to post. It's so sweet and humbling.
I believe we all have to face/endure/forge through disappointments, set backs and as my grandfather would say, "Don't let the bastards get you down!" Teaching girls and boys about winning and losing gracefully, about team spirit, about trying and moving forward or knowing when it makes sense to walk away, how to handle the conflicts with dignity and integrity -- definitely. We have to lead with hope and compassion as well as wisdom and empathy that comes from what we've lived. But let's not lose site of the fact that some times the boy at the plate is indeed 4 or 6 or 8 years old. With feelings.
I believe we all have to face/endure/forge through disappointments, set backs and as my grandfather would say, "Don't let the bastards get you down!" Teaching girls and boys about winning and losing gracefully, about team spirit, about trying and moving forward or knowing when it makes sense to walk away, how to handle the conflicts with dignity and integrity -- definitely. We have to lead with hope and compassion as well as wisdom and empathy that comes from what we've lived. But let's not lose site of the fact that some times the boy at the plate is indeed 4 or 6 or 8 years old. With feelings.
Monday, April 16, 2012
A Manifesto
I was on the phone this afternoon with a potential artist roster addition, talking about where things are, where I want them to be with the business. I can't remember the context exactly now, nor my exact words but I about a nano second after I said it, I heard it. I heard the words that came out of my mouth.
Over the last 3-7 months folks have congratulated me on my new business endeavors, made comparisons (and contrasts) between me and other colleagues, and many have mentored me and helped me work through a lot of business issues and insecurities. So many have had to remind me not to compare myself to others. And then followed it up with, "Is that what you want? What is that you want?" I didn't know.
But maybe I did. Maybe all that "comparison" was just my inner self really truly wanting and aspiring to that. Yes, there is no way to be where others are right now - that is/was certainly a lesson to learn. Everyone moves at their own pace and sets their own goals...moreover, my mentors have 15+ years on me. I physically cannot be there. But what about the rest? Have I really just been squashing what I want because I was looking at it through the wrong lens? Have I been afraid to admit or acknowledge it? Is it the sort of thing that everyone else sees (and you know deep down) but can't face yet?
Maybe.
But today it just came out. Like some gate opened and out poured the water of hope and aspiration. Whatever I was holding back, afraid to admit either because I was afraid of wanting too much or afraid my dream would look too similar, whatever had me pondering for so long and/or second guessing myself was overrun today by my subconscious.
I want an office. A real office. I don't want to work out of my house anymore. I want space. And frankly, to me, it feels more legit. Sorry, my home address has never boded well for a business address. "2nd floor" or "Suite 3" is more my style, coupled with some charm in the decor. It's been two years. I'm over it.
I want a staff. Maybe not a staff of 5 or 7 or 10. But about 3-4 people. Someone else in sales, someone to handle contracts and servicing, someone to handle marketing and social media with the presenter, and someone to handle AIE and crafting curriculum guides.
I want a roster of about 15 artists. I was cautious at first. I thought 5 sounded manageable because I wasn't really living it. Now I'm living it and it's not so bad. Moreover, having the right marketing mix can work in one's favor. The key is to grow organically and in due time.
I want a salary. I want a salary because I'm an independent soul at heart. I can go back to not feeling guilty over buying hand crafted jewelry...I can put my kid in private school...I can return to Greece in two years. Yes, I love to travel. A lot. Day trips, weekend trips, conferences, vacations, whatever. I'm a creature of change. I have no doubt I was a nomad in a previous life. I don't feel guilty about it...in fact, I lose a bit of myself when I can't travel and I'm a miserable person because of it. People don't get it but screw it, it's who I am.
I'm my own person, that is for sure. Maybe I look like a few of my mentors all rolled into one. Maybe I do look strangely similar to the places I've been, the people I've worked for. We are what we live. I don't care anymore. On the surface the ambition might look the same, and maybe deep down, it is similar, but we are all our own selves and we bring that sense of self to what we do. That's what differentiates us.
So yes, that is what I want. An office, a staff, a slightly bigger, more evolved roster, a salary and the ability to travel. To Greece. I did more than say it in conversation. I wrote it down. And now it's mine.
Over the last 3-7 months folks have congratulated me on my new business endeavors, made comparisons (and contrasts) between me and other colleagues, and many have mentored me and helped me work through a lot of business issues and insecurities. So many have had to remind me not to compare myself to others. And then followed it up with, "Is that what you want? What is that you want?" I didn't know.
But maybe I did. Maybe all that "comparison" was just my inner self really truly wanting and aspiring to that. Yes, there is no way to be where others are right now - that is/was certainly a lesson to learn. Everyone moves at their own pace and sets their own goals...moreover, my mentors have 15+ years on me. I physically cannot be there. But what about the rest? Have I really just been squashing what I want because I was looking at it through the wrong lens? Have I been afraid to admit or acknowledge it? Is it the sort of thing that everyone else sees (and you know deep down) but can't face yet?
Maybe.
But today it just came out. Like some gate opened and out poured the water of hope and aspiration. Whatever I was holding back, afraid to admit either because I was afraid of wanting too much or afraid my dream would look too similar, whatever had me pondering for so long and/or second guessing myself was overrun today by my subconscious.
I want an office. A real office. I don't want to work out of my house anymore. I want space. And frankly, to me, it feels more legit. Sorry, my home address has never boded well for a business address. "2nd floor" or "Suite 3" is more my style, coupled with some charm in the decor. It's been two years. I'm over it.
I want a staff. Maybe not a staff of 5 or 7 or 10. But about 3-4 people. Someone else in sales, someone to handle contracts and servicing, someone to handle marketing and social media with the presenter, and someone to handle AIE and crafting curriculum guides.
I want a roster of about 15 artists. I was cautious at first. I thought 5 sounded manageable because I wasn't really living it. Now I'm living it and it's not so bad. Moreover, having the right marketing mix can work in one's favor. The key is to grow organically and in due time.
I want a salary. I want a salary because I'm an independent soul at heart. I can go back to not feeling guilty over buying hand crafted jewelry...I can put my kid in private school...I can return to Greece in two years. Yes, I love to travel. A lot. Day trips, weekend trips, conferences, vacations, whatever. I'm a creature of change. I have no doubt I was a nomad in a previous life. I don't feel guilty about it...in fact, I lose a bit of myself when I can't travel and I'm a miserable person because of it. People don't get it but screw it, it's who I am.
I'm my own person, that is for sure. Maybe I look like a few of my mentors all rolled into one. Maybe I do look strangely similar to the places I've been, the people I've worked for. We are what we live. I don't care anymore. On the surface the ambition might look the same, and maybe deep down, it is similar, but we are all our own selves and we bring that sense of self to what we do. That's what differentiates us.
So yes, that is what I want. An office, a staff, a slightly bigger, more evolved roster, a salary and the ability to travel. To Greece. I did more than say it in conversation. I wrote it down. And now it's mine.
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Storypeople
Haven't browsed Storypeople in a long time...today I stumbled upon a very appropriate one for Vince and tonight I'm poking around looking for one for my sister. I'm still searching. I did stumble on this one although I don't know it's name.
I can put down roots pretty quickly in the face of radical change, she said.
I can put down roots pretty quickly in the face of radical change, she said.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
You'll be fine
Just found myself saying to my cousin the very words I heard the other day..."You know more about yourself at 24/25 than I did...you will be fine...try not to be so hard on yourself." Because I knew how I was then. I saw myself in her, in that moment. Young and overwhelmed.
So for all the "you're young" comments I hear, they must have heard them too...for all the stress I put on myself and unloaded, they were there too. More than there...they see themselves in me.
I've taken some of those comments as condescending, a little mockery, like they don't take me seriously, like I'm always a baby despite all my efforts to look otherwise. But maybe that's not really it...
And maybe the only words to say are those because really, I wouldn't have been able to handle, to live, anything more than that at 24/25. Or now at 34. Even now, I think of what I might have told myself then and if it could have mattered. All I come up with is exactly what was said to me. I would not have believed or listened to anything else because I had to figure stuff out on my own.
It's an amazing moment realizing someone sees him/herself in you.
"You will be fine."
So for all the "you're young" comments I hear, they must have heard them too...for all the stress I put on myself and unloaded, they were there too. More than there...they see themselves in me.
I've taken some of those comments as condescending, a little mockery, like they don't take me seriously, like I'm always a baby despite all my efforts to look otherwise. But maybe that's not really it...
And maybe the only words to say are those because really, I wouldn't have been able to handle, to live, anything more than that at 24/25. Or now at 34. Even now, I think of what I might have told myself then and if it could have mattered. All I come up with is exactly what was said to me. I would not have believed or listened to anything else because I had to figure stuff out on my own.
It's an amazing moment realizing someone sees him/herself in you.
"You will be fine."
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Sometimes I get kicked right back to a place - an emotional place - that I thought I'd squashed and moved passed. Sometimes it's that same person who does it. Sometimes the 180 I do leaves my head spinning.
Today is the first day of Lent and my promise to myself is to do my best to get out of my own head and past old demons and insecurities that have reared their ugly heads in recent weeks due to the business' struggles and my innate desires to prove myself - to myself and others.
Maybe in 40 days I won't feel so unsupported...so hard on myself...so embarrassed...so young. Not letting certain things affect me takes major effort especially when I work so hard to change past images and perceptions and I want so badly to be seen as an ace. I don't know how I'm getting to that mental place.
Today is the first day of Lent and my promise to myself is to do my best to get out of my own head and past old demons and insecurities that have reared their ugly heads in recent weeks due to the business' struggles and my innate desires to prove myself - to myself and others.
Maybe in 40 days I won't feel so unsupported...so hard on myself...so embarrassed...so young. Not letting certain things affect me takes major effort especially when I work so hard to change past images and perceptions and I want so badly to be seen as an ace. I don't know how I'm getting to that mental place.
Monday, February 06, 2012
Falling Apart
I must be PMSed because I don't cry this much in one day. Earlier I sobbed over my business financials and could barely muster the energy afterwards to make a few call backs - and good call backs nonetheless - the ones to people who are actually interested and wanting to talk to me about an artist.
I just sobbed over a petition for a small dog that lost it's life overseas due to horrific abuse. My own dog has been driving me crazy this past week is getting a big hug now.
I put the boy to bed tonight and and like when he was an infant and I was a hormonal wreck, I pray for him, pray that he's always protected, safe, happy, and healthy...but I worry. I'm a parent so I worry. I worry - what if he's bullied? What if he struggles in school? In a sport? What if he's gay? What if he's unhappy? What if he hates his parents someday and rebels and turns to drugs? What if he's one of those kids that writes what they feel on pieces of paper and creates a video on YouTube? Christ.
Not all the above are scary per say but just worrisome because of the society in which we live and the pressures on kids (and even parents) today and the lack of control I have over others' behaviors. I mean, I have little to no control over most of the above. God has a plan. The end. I can only trust that me being his mother clearly meant I was part of that plan and I am equipped with his grace to handle things.
His school is teaching his class all about safety and I spent time this morning talking with him about strangers and what to do and say. I remembered the time at the kids museum when we walked out of the bathroom and he was engulfed by the crowd and I couldn't find him. For a good 30 seconds I covered a 10 yard radius shouting his name and surveying the crowd with no avail. Then I stopped and stayed in place for another 30 seconds and did the same thing, remembering that stay put rule...maybe he would see me first? Then I called in reinforcements. And within 1 minute the entire museum was on alert and a minute later a staff member found him.
And how I sobbed over him for a week after scared of what if...and how I couldn't sleep that week since we were slated to go to NYC and I was panicked of losing him (and still am - on the subway or wherever) and I carried his 30lb two and half year old self ALL over Manhattan that day out of fear. My arm was in pain for days after but I was completely freaked out at the thought of him walking or even being in an umbrella stroller. Even now, I take extra caution when I know we are headed to high traffic places.
Worry. PMS and a full moon have escalated my worry over all situations right now.
I just sobbed over a petition for a small dog that lost it's life overseas due to horrific abuse. My own dog has been driving me crazy this past week is getting a big hug now.
I put the boy to bed tonight and and like when he was an infant and I was a hormonal wreck, I pray for him, pray that he's always protected, safe, happy, and healthy...but I worry. I'm a parent so I worry. I worry - what if he's bullied? What if he struggles in school? In a sport? What if he's gay? What if he's unhappy? What if he hates his parents someday and rebels and turns to drugs? What if he's one of those kids that writes what they feel on pieces of paper and creates a video on YouTube? Christ.
Not all the above are scary per say but just worrisome because of the society in which we live and the pressures on kids (and even parents) today and the lack of control I have over others' behaviors. I mean, I have little to no control over most of the above. God has a plan. The end. I can only trust that me being his mother clearly meant I was part of that plan and I am equipped with his grace to handle things.
His school is teaching his class all about safety and I spent time this morning talking with him about strangers and what to do and say. I remembered the time at the kids museum when we walked out of the bathroom and he was engulfed by the crowd and I couldn't find him. For a good 30 seconds I covered a 10 yard radius shouting his name and surveying the crowd with no avail. Then I stopped and stayed in place for another 30 seconds and did the same thing, remembering that stay put rule...maybe he would see me first? Then I called in reinforcements. And within 1 minute the entire museum was on alert and a minute later a staff member found him.
And how I sobbed over him for a week after scared of what if...and how I couldn't sleep that week since we were slated to go to NYC and I was panicked of losing him (and still am - on the subway or wherever) and I carried his 30lb two and half year old self ALL over Manhattan that day out of fear. My arm was in pain for days after but I was completely freaked out at the thought of him walking or even being in an umbrella stroller. Even now, I take extra caution when I know we are headed to high traffic places.
Worry. PMS and a full moon have escalated my worry over all situations right now.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Understood
I think this speaks to parents, great friends, great relationships, and significant others.
These words reminded me of a moment at IPAY talking with colleagues and we were sharing some of our fears and insecurities and I recalled a few that while they are still with me are less intense now than they were about 10 years ago. It also reminded me of my colleague who once said to me - in front of others - "You can be so tough sometimes and then so completely vulnerable." No, I told Alex the other day, it wasn't a girlfriend but a male colleague. Uh, 8 years later, I still HATE that I had nothing to say in that moment...so taken aback, so called out, so mad he knew me that well. With a guy's perspective, he thinks it showed how much this guy cared for me.
Who knows. Truthfully, I can't forget it...it was that dead on...I used to say in my early 20s how much I wanted someone to just completely understand me and this person not only figured me out but had a wisdom to know who I was at 26...maybe he understood because he was/is the same.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
My Favorite Things
A repost from Piccadilly's blog from this week.
A fellow blogger recently posted about how she'd been inspired by
one of my favorite movies, Love Actually, and the words "Love really is
all around." She let those words be her guide as she decorated her
house - specifically her Christmas tree - for the holiday. Stenciling
those words on ribbon she encircled the entire tree in the ribbon and
adorned it with handcrafted framed ornaments of her family.
It got me thinking. If I had the time to do something similar, what would it look like? Most likely "My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music. Then I thought - in lieu of ribbon - I'd write a holiday blog post about my favorite things, especially at this time of year.
Classic Movies
I am watching Meet Me In St. Louis as I type. My Pop Pop introduced me to classics with the Sound of Music around the age of 5 so it's no surprise that I love that movie, and tons of others, and feel the need to watch them all one right after the other during these relaxing post holiday days.
Cocoa and Lights
A cup of cocoa and a stroll through a park, Macy's Light Show, or even South Philly looking at all the lights (and plastic praying Blessed Mother hands) goes a long way, especially with a 3 year old in tow. I love white lights most of all, especially when entire streets are lined in them. Cue a little Celtic music and it's the most romantic setting. My son is entranced with all lights (and scary blow up Santas, etc.) but it's OK...it's all magical to him and experiencing the holiday through his eyes is joy.
Vintage
My love of vintage runs the gamut but this time of year I especially love gorgeous vintage dresses, old photographs (in general but mostly of my family), mid century ornaments, and Christmas albums on vinyl.
Handmade
It was something of a lean holiday in this house but it made me grateful for my artistic side. For years I've given paintings from various classes, b/w photographs taken and framed, and most recently, hand crocheted scarves and dishcloths. Needless to say, a few daycare teachers received Trader Joe's coffee, cookies, mugs and a crocheted dishcloth. I appreciate all handmade goodies, be it jewelry, little ceramic magnets and stones, ornaments, pottery, you name it. And I love spending time hunting for that perfect handmade item for the artists and creative folk in my life.
Italian cookies
My Grandmom nails pizzelles as well as her lemon cookies. I experiment with ricotta ones but I have yet to try the pizzelle iron.
Pointsetta
Red, white, and tons of them. My Pop Pop would get them for my mom every year and they would adorn the house. Flanked with evergreen swag and red bows, it's so classic Christmas to me. And it ties into my next favorite thing.
Nature
I know it's dreary out and we almost never get a White Christmas but I love nothing more than bits of nature brought indoors this time of year -- pine cones, green, berries. If it was up to me I'd have THE Charlie Brown tree (I'm not a fan of fat bushy trees). Brandywine River Museum has an annual "critter sale" - critters made from all natural elements, assembled by their volunteers - and I have a dog, squirrel, and bear and they are the coolest and simplest ornaments. There's also a bit of hope that shines on December 22, the first day of winter, knowing we gain a little more light with each day until June...always worth celebrating.
These are just a few of my favorite things...and if I look around I can see a little piece of each in my holiday decor, mood, and spirit. Piccadilly wishes you all a wonderful holiday season and Winter Solstice. May you find the time to rest and recharge, be with your friends and family and to quote one of my favorite bands, "Be here now." Enjoy and be grateful for the gift of the present moment.
It got me thinking. If I had the time to do something similar, what would it look like? Most likely "My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music. Then I thought - in lieu of ribbon - I'd write a holiday blog post about my favorite things, especially at this time of year.
Classic Movies
I am watching Meet Me In St. Louis as I type. My Pop Pop introduced me to classics with the Sound of Music around the age of 5 so it's no surprise that I love that movie, and tons of others, and feel the need to watch them all one right after the other during these relaxing post holiday days.
Cocoa and Lights
A cup of cocoa and a stroll through a park, Macy's Light Show, or even South Philly looking at all the lights (and plastic praying Blessed Mother hands) goes a long way, especially with a 3 year old in tow. I love white lights most of all, especially when entire streets are lined in them. Cue a little Celtic music and it's the most romantic setting. My son is entranced with all lights (and scary blow up Santas, etc.) but it's OK...it's all magical to him and experiencing the holiday through his eyes is joy.
Vintage
My love of vintage runs the gamut but this time of year I especially love gorgeous vintage dresses, old photographs (in general but mostly of my family), mid century ornaments, and Christmas albums on vinyl.
Handmade
It was something of a lean holiday in this house but it made me grateful for my artistic side. For years I've given paintings from various classes, b/w photographs taken and framed, and most recently, hand crocheted scarves and dishcloths. Needless to say, a few daycare teachers received Trader Joe's coffee, cookies, mugs and a crocheted dishcloth. I appreciate all handmade goodies, be it jewelry, little ceramic magnets and stones, ornaments, pottery, you name it. And I love spending time hunting for that perfect handmade item for the artists and creative folk in my life.
Italian cookies
My Grandmom nails pizzelles as well as her lemon cookies. I experiment with ricotta ones but I have yet to try the pizzelle iron.
Pointsetta
Red, white, and tons of them. My Pop Pop would get them for my mom every year and they would adorn the house. Flanked with evergreen swag and red bows, it's so classic Christmas to me. And it ties into my next favorite thing.
Nature
I know it's dreary out and we almost never get a White Christmas but I love nothing more than bits of nature brought indoors this time of year -- pine cones, green, berries. If it was up to me I'd have THE Charlie Brown tree (I'm not a fan of fat bushy trees). Brandywine River Museum has an annual "critter sale" - critters made from all natural elements, assembled by their volunteers - and I have a dog, squirrel, and bear and they are the coolest and simplest ornaments. There's also a bit of hope that shines on December 22, the first day of winter, knowing we gain a little more light with each day until June...always worth celebrating.
These are just a few of my favorite things...and if I look around I can see a little piece of each in my holiday decor, mood, and spirit. Piccadilly wishes you all a wonderful holiday season and Winter Solstice. May you find the time to rest and recharge, be with your friends and family and to quote one of my favorite bands, "Be here now." Enjoy and be grateful for the gift of the present moment.
By Chrissie
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
Every so often I circle back to these words, words I originally uncovered on a piece of paper (I believe at church?) back in 1999 when I was feeling confused and lost especially about relationships.
“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”
― Rainer Maria Rilke
Several years ago I would see this very passage engraved on the Jeanine Payer "Palmer" bracelet. I still covet this bracelet.
“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.”
― Rainer Maria Rilke
Several years ago I would see this very passage engraved on the Jeanine Payer "Palmer" bracelet. I still covet this bracelet.
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