Pink Bangles

I am jealous of my blogging friends

2011-12-29T01:50:00.003-07:00

Well, I am tired of reading my friends wonderful blogs and feeling left out so I am picking mine up again! Besides I feel that this year I am going to have a whole lot more to write about. Things have picked up in my life and I look forward to all this coming year has to offer.

As many of you who have read my blog know I have been in a writing funk for some time...these are the barriers that keep popping up and slow down my writing.

1. The layout, it's no good and needs to be updated. (I can't work with bad design.)

2. I feel that I have moved my life in a new direction. Soon I may even have to write for two... Should I start clean with a new blog? If so what would I call it?

The layout and design I will fix soon, and though I feel a new blog will soon be necessary I will continue to write in this one for now.

Its only a little crush I swear...

2011-05-03T08:36:00.006-07:00

I love nights like tonight!

2011-04-29T00:10:00.004-07:00

Outside it is gently raining, my cat Figaro is cuddled near me on the couch. I am drinking an herbal tea made from fresh ingredients from my garden and I am reading a great book! I only wish I could spend more nights this way!

The tea I made was a "relaxation tea," if any of you would like to make it here are the ingredients.

2T Fresh Chamomile flowers
2T Fresh mint leaves
2T fresh fruit or pineapple sage leaves.

Bring your water to a boil, but DON'T boil for too long. I think I did mine for a too long and the flavor was a a little flat.

Runaway - Yeah Yeah Yeahs

2011-04-27T08:43:00.003-07:00

"Can't help looking back. Run, run, runaway. Lost, lost, lost my mind."

A little more on "Spring Cleaning"

2011-04-27T00:10:00.003-07:00

This spring I am cleaning out more than just my room. The thing I am tossing is:

Baggage. Lets face it we all have it, and its time to get rid of those metaphorical suitcases!

There are somethings that are not worth the struggle or the fight, and are harmful to hold onto. I'm letting go, and in doing so I hope to find the courage to live the life I desire, and to love freely with an open heart.

If anything or anyone is weighing you down and holding you back join me, and together lets let go.

Image of suitcase: via

Spring Cleaning

2011-04-26T23:18:00.001-07:00

I know that I am not alone when I say that I am not a fan of extreme cleaning. Perhaps many of you reading are also tired of constantly battling the second law of thermodynamics when it comes to keeping your home-room-etc neat and tidy. No matter how often or diligently we clean everything manages to get messy again doesn't it?! Its an eternal battle that never ends! Because of this I have developed the unfortunate tendency to drag my feet with the never ending task and have become comfortable with a system of organized chaos.

However my negative view of cleaning was altered this week while reading a passage in Paulo Coelho's novel "The Witch of Portobello;" a book I would highly recommend to anyone. In this particular passage a character, Edda takes a rather sunny view on the simple task of washing dishes. Edda says:

"When you are washing up, be thankful that there are plates to be washed; that means there was food, that you fed someone, that you've lavished care on one or more people, that you cooked and laid the table. Imagine the millions of people that have absolutely nothing to wash up and no one for whom to lay the table."

This idea can definitely be applied to more than just washing up. It is wonderful that I have a home and a place to clean. Even though constantly having to clean up can be a pain, it is a sign that people are present in and enjoy my home. As a playground of some of life's fondest memories, it is only natural that a home requires an investment of our time and energy for maintenance.

Image via

Sleepless Beauty.

2011-04-17T21:34:00.005-07:00

Its that special time in the semester when lots of shi* needs to get done, and sleep is a rarity.

As I prepare to stay up late again studying, I am reminded of the fairytale Sleeping Beauty. I have to say 100 years of sleep and waking up to a prince's kiss sounds lovely right about now... unrealistic perhaps, but lovely all the same.

2011-04-14T16:32:00.006-07:00

In a bookshop I found a greeting card that read:

"She requires a steady diet of faith and fancy, with a little mischief here and there for good measure."

I love it! :)

May I Live Here?

2011-04-05T00:32:00.002-07:00

Source via

Saturday April 2nd

2011-04-02T14:56:00.002-07:00

I discovered a fun and quirky illustrator, Schettler. Check our their profile it is lovely!

Character Design Fun

2011-04-02T01:04:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

In one of my illustration courses we are working on a sequential art project. Tonight I have been playing around with the characters I am going to use in mine and I thought I would share some of my rough work. I am still trying to get the hang of the medium guache... I don't know why it is so hard for me to use.

When my project is finished I will post the whole sequential piece.

Well, it is 2 am and I am off to get what sleep I can.

Cheers! :D

Artists Think They Are So Funny

2011-04-01T20:19:00.001-07:00

Well...maybe they are...

Getting Started

2011-03-28T23:16:00.007-07:00

I know that I have been really bad at putting my artwork online in the past. I am afraid I have the classic problem of never being satisfied with my work. However, it is time that I move on from that stumbling block and just get started! I am working on a website and it should be up and running by summer.

In the mean time here are some pieces from my sketchbook. Last week in my life drawing class we began to study drapery. All week I have been drawing and studying clothing! I absolutely have loved it!

The Tapioca

2011-03-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

This week my friends Stephanie and Hilary are having a combined birthday party and the theme is the 1920s. Do you know what this means? Oh yes, it is time to bring out the tapioca!!! Hahaha.

An Early Birthday Present for Me?

2011-03-25T07:29:00.005-07:00

Floating Gardens

2011-03-24T22:00:00.002-07:00

Finally it is the season for planting gardens and flowers! Although I am still working on obtaining a green thumb (sadly my indoor herb garden didn't survive the winter) I love gardens, and gardening. I feel that everyone should try gardening at least once in their life. There is something truly special about caring for plants and watching them grow. It is incredibly rewarding.

One problem that seems to get in the way of gardening for people my age is lacking sufficient space. I found a brilliant solution to this problem on Fossil's lifestyle blog. Fedor van der Valk has created a space saving, urban-friendly, and gorgeous garden technique called string gardens.

I am looking forward to making my own string garden. Although I know I will not have time to do so until after the semester is over. I am simply too crunched for time now, and I have a feeling it is going to take me a few attempts before I get it right. None the less, I welcome the challenge and look forward to the results. :)

Sources:

http://blog.fossil.com/2011/01/string-gardens/

http://www.stringgardens.com/

Ice Castles: My Farewell Post to Winter.

2011-03-21T23:16:00.004-07:00

As of yesterday Winter is officially over and Spring is here! While Spring is my favorite season and I am in no way sad to see Winter pass. I thought I would honor the parting season and do a farewell post for it; writing about something unique and special this winter offered me.

For those who live in Utah or visit it frequently, you may already be familiar with the Ice Castles in Midway. I just discovered them this year and all I can say is "WOW!" One man, Brent Christensen (with some help from nature), took art to a whole new level with his incredible ice castle creations.

How fun and romantic would it be to get lost in magical ice castles on a date? Sigh, perhaps it is pathetic but I keep envisioning holding someone's hand while walking through these and cuddling when we become cold. So boys who is up for it next year?

Images via:

Shutterstein

Alan Fullmer

Jeremiah.Cougar

I ❤ Crepe Sunday!

2011-03-20T19:53:00.002-07:00

One Sunday a month the girls in my ward get together in the morning and have a crepe party. It has turned into a really fun and delicious tradition! After I had finished eating one too many crepes I was left feeling very grateful for good friends and with the thought: "Bless the French!"

Here is a recipe for crepes if you want to get together with your friends and start your own "Crepe-Sunday" tradition. (I would highly recommend it.)

Ingrediants:

3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, beaten
3/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons whole milk
1 tablespoon sugar
Pinch salt
6 teaspoons melted unsalted butter

Directions:

1. Whisk together the flour, eggs, milk, sugar, salt, and 4 1/2 teaspoons of the butter to form a smooth, thin batter. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before proceeding.

2. Heat a heavy 6-inch skillet or crepe pan over medium-high heat. When hot, brush with a light coating of the remaining butter.

3. Ladle about 1/4 cup of crepe batter into the pan, tilting the skillet to evenly coat the pan with batter. Cook until golden brown on the bottom and the top begins to look dry, 1 to 2 minutes.

4. Using a spatula, carefully turn the crepe and cook on the second side just until the bottom colors slightly, about 30 seconds.

5. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm. Repeat with remaining batter.

For more fun crepe recipes go to partysugar.

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Also, I know it's random but I would like to give a shout out to the BYU Basketball team for their amazing game yesterday! It was a great game to watch (and not just because player 41 on the other team was incredibly hot...). Keep it up boys! We need you to bring it when we face Florida!

2011-03-19T22:58:00.001-07:00

At this time I am reminded of an old saying that follows: "If you put in what you have always put in you will receive what you have always received." I don't like what I have been "putting in" lately. The past few months I have been afraid of my own shadow, afraid to take the risks I need to take, and sulking in self pity. At times I have displaced the hurt of my failures on those close to me. I haven't been living up to the person I know that I can be. Soon it will be the beginning of a new month, and I want to make some changes in my life. In all areas of my life.

I apologize to all those around me for when I haven't been as strong as you have needed me to be. I am sorry when my areas of weakness have burdened you or might have caused you pain. With every mistake I make I am learning, and I hope to become a better person for you and for me.

To myself, I am sorry because I know I have always been my greatest restraint. I wish to shed my hesitation and open the doors I need to open. I am sorry for always looking backwards, I know now that the only direction for me and my heart to go is forward. I want to be the best I can be.

An Adventurer

2011-03-16T21:23:00.002-07:00

Remember the question "what do you want to be when you grow up?" Some of the girls around me wanted to be princesses, dancers, teachers, presidents, etc. Had you asked the little girl Ashley what she wanted to be, she would have boldly proclaimed that she wanted to be an adventurer!

An inner voice whispers to us to seek, discover, and finally to know.

Is 21 too old to still be searching?

Is 21 too old to still be yearning to break away?

That inner voice I mentioned is not whispering to me, it is shouting.

To be honest, I fear the day I can no longer hear it.

My Favorite "Lullaband" (Name Courtesy of Kurt Beard)

2011-03-14T23:02:00.007-07:00

This post is for Scott, Emily, and Ciera some of the coolest people I've met. Thanks for the music guys.

I remember the first time I heard Book on Tape Worm perform almost a year ago. When Scott, with his ambient vocals, began to sing I was swept away. The words and melodies reflected all of my darkest secrets; my insecurities, pains, regrets, and hopes. I know that the music is his personal story, yet I cannot help but feel when I listen to their band that no one knows me better than Scott Shepard.

Finally (after much arm twisting) the band has announced that they’re recording an album! To fund the project they have started a Kickstarter page. After one performance on Saturday they have almost raised half the money needed! Woo-hoo!

Together, Scott, Ciera, and Emily make a good team. Their stage set is always really neat too. Look into this band if you have a moment. If you like what you hear become a fan on Facebook or look at their website: bookontapeworm.com. To raise awareness for their new album, this month is "blog about Book on Tape Worm month" (as if I needed a reason to write about them) so to further contribute I will post more videos of the group on this blog. Here are two for now, enjoy :).

The song in this last video, "Corners", is one of my favorites. It is beautiful.

"I'm not photogenic, but I'll take your pictures love, You'll see I'll be the finger in the corner of your favorite memories."

"Growing old is the slowest form of time travel."

Another Post About Japan

2011-03-14T21:46:00.003-07:00

Social media can be a very valuable thing, especially in times of crisis. It never fails to amaze me when I realize how connected our world has become. Social networks have been buzzing since the 11th of ways to take action, find loved ones, or just raise awareness. Facebook alone counted 4.5 million status updates from 3.8 million users across the world on March 11 that mentioned “Japan,” “earthquake” or “tsunami.” The animated graphic below reflects this in 10 different points in time.. (You may have to click on the image to see the animated version or go here)

I am glad that the Internet exists, how else could a girl across the planet have any hope of helping the victims overseas or receive accurate up-to-date information? The tsunami and earthquake may have passed but the recovery has just begun. (Not to mention, the situation could become worse depending on what happens at the Fukushima nuclear power plant...)

Social media makes donating to relief efforts such as the American Red Cross or Save the Children easy. If you aren't very good with the Internet and taking advantage of social media (I was one of them...twitter still confuses me.) There is a web page that explains how in seven simple easy ways. Click here to view the page.

Too often I hear people whining and griping about the "evils technology have brought to our society," but look at how the social media has been used in this crisis. In fact, Monica Diaz of the Red Cross Los Angeles chapter said that "the best way anyone can help is by going online."

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Source:
How Facebook Users Reacted...

Do I Have To?

2011-03-14T19:26:00.004-07:00

Image via: Real Simple

I am the exact opposite of a person with a foot fetish. I don't know why but feet have always grossed me out a little. Unless they belong to an infant (who could hate those cute things?) I don't want to spend a lot of time touching them, looking at them, working with them...etc. I will give myself pedicures and take care of my feet as far as I have to but that is the extent of my relationship with the appendages. So imagine how thrilled I was to learn that this week in my intermediate life drawing class we were going to spend all week studying and learning about the foot.

Actually, I was okay with that part. The feet are a tricky part of the body to do correctly and I could always use more practice. What I am dragging my feet about (no pun intended...well maybe it was a little intended) is that I have to draw 25 feet from life. This means I get to go around asking people if I can draw their feet (alone). Tell me that question wouldn't make me sound like a total creeper? Ha ha a boy in my class when he found out our assignment joked and said he was going to ask people if "they would remove their shoes slowly" before he began to draw them. Oh man.

Personal creepiness aside, as I mentioned above other people's feet gross me out. Lets face facts, most people's feet do not look like the pair in the image above. They are dry, cracked, and smelly.

Aw well, I guess I will quit whining and just get to work.

Until next time.

The Weekend Ended Too Soon...

2011-03-14T09:00:00.006-07:00

This weekend was exactly what I needed! On Friday my friends' bands, Shawty & The Beast, Apt, and Chance Lewis played a free hip-hop show at Sammy's.

After the show I went and danced all night at Dance Dance Vinyl Monster! It was so much fun and I needed the release that dancing offers!

On Saturday, I was able to go to a lot of good concerts! Book on Tapeworm performed and to my great delight announced that they are in the process of recording! Yesss!!! Also, Wild Apples and Ferocious Oaks played a fun show at Muse. After the concerts we all went and ate and hung out at Village Inn.

Thank you all of my friends for the great weekend!

Here are some video clips of the show at Sammy's. These videos aren't of my friends' performances. Unfortunately I showed up a little late and only caught the last group.

Major Pangs

2011-03-13T18:35:00.013-07:00

I love the art program I am in, I truly do. They don't accept that many people and I worked too hard to be accepted into my program to change my major now. Even so, every now and again I find myself worrying if I chose the right major. If I should instead be studying in the David M. Kennedy Center for International Studies. I love learning about life in other countries and I want to travel to A LOT of places.

Even if I am not an "international relations" student, I still take the classes they offer and participate in their forums and events. Through that program I have been able to meet, listen, and on some occasions have lunch with, an ambassador from almost every country. Not to mention listen to some other rad people such as Greg Mortenson, Condoleezza Rice, and Paul Rusesabagina.

This past week I was able to listen to Ambassador Hem Heng of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Even though the room he spoke in was filled with mostly Caucasian students, almost everyone in it spoke the Khmer language...I felt a little out of place. When the Ambassador spoke he discussed his country's past and present and the history of the U.S.'s relation with them. It would seem that our two countries which are now allies have had a rather rocky past together.

I am glad Ambassador Hem Heng and his wife were able to visit Provo. It was great learning about Cambodia. My knowledge of the country was basic and left much for wanting beforehand. Unfortunately, this time I couldn't meet Ambassador Hem Heng. After he spoke I had to run and finish a project. I look forward to next week's visitor, the Ukrainian Ambassador Olexander Motsyk. If you live in Provo or near it you should come!

To Japan With Love

2011-03-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

I am sure most of you have heard of what has happened in Japan. I almost have no words, watching the news...it is surreal to see the damage that has been done. I love Japan, I have studied the language and culture for years now. I have friends staying in Northern Japan and since Friday I have been worried sick for them and the people of Japan.

My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this tragedy. If you want to help text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate to the Japan Quake Relief Fund.

2011-03-10T00:03:00.019-07:00

(Concept art for Disney's Tangled by Bill Perkins)

Guess who I was able to spend 3 days with. Pfft not even close... Give up? Bill Perkins! The acclaimed Disney Artist! Recently, he did the concept art for the movie "Tangled" but he is no stranger or newbie with Disney. He was the art director for Aladdin and Fantasia 2000, the key layout and workbook artist for Beauty and the Beast and has worked on many Disney movies and others such as Shrek. If you would like to see a list of all the films he has worked on click here.

On Monday (the 28th) through Wednesday (the 2nd) he came to my school and I was able to meet and learn from him. I was very interested in his history. He didn't start out as an animator, he graduated in illustration and later dabbled with fine art and gallery work. During a recession he worked with a group of artists to get their work into a museum. After that project he became fascinated with the idea of "collaborative art" and started working at Disney as a layout artist for the film Oliver and Company. And from there he has become a legend in the animation world.

The key concepts I took from Bill's lectures and demonstrations were composition and design. The man knows design! (I will come back and post some of my notes later.)

On his last day here (unless you spent 300 dollars and attended his color workshop), Wednesday, two animated films were premiered: BYU's newest animated film Dream Giver directed by Tyler Carter and a new animated short by Disney that hasn't been released yet Tick-Tock. After the films Bill Perkins shared his experience.

I couldn't believe how incredibly nice Bill Perkins was! Like C.F. Payne he was incredibly helpful and I learned so many valuable lessons about the tools and elements of design!

Congratulations Laura and Andrew!

2011-03-09T22:39:00.002-07:00

Last Friday along with the "Bowls for Humanity" taking place, a friend from my old Young Women's group, Laura, was married. While I am very happy for her and Andrew, I am still having a hard time wrapping my mind around the idea. When did I reach the age that all of the girls I grew up with were going to start getting married?!

I couldn't attend the wedding but her reception, which was held in Provo's Historic Southworth Hall, was beautiful! No surprise there, Laura has always been very stylish!!!

Bowls For Humanity

2011-03-09T22:08:00.000-07:00

Provo has a new Food and Care Coalition building and I have a new bowl! Like it?

Last Friday Provo's Food and Care Coalition hosted the 5th annual Bowls For Humanity in their new building and used soup as a tool to fight local homelessness and hunger. Local potters-both amateur and professional-donated one-of-a-kind bowls for the evening. These bowls were sold at the fundraiser for $5-$20, and with each purchase people were given a dinner of soup, a roll, and a water bottle.

The proceeds went to help the Food and Care Coalition operate and run their new building which offers services such as dental care, temporary housing, showers, eye exams, laundry facilities and three square meals a day. The new building's mission is to provide a place that will inspire hope, confidence, safety and help the people get back on their feet. (You can click here to read their mission statement)

Over 900 people packed in to join a night of music, fun and soup. Over 3000 pots were donated and before the night was over they ran out! It was neat to see how much people care. In addition to the handmade ceramic bowls, flowers, food, and advertisements were all donated. And all the services I mentioned above are only available because people donate their time and talents.

Mothers

2011-03-08T13:57:00.005-07:00

Today marks the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day. I struggled when trying to find the perfect topic to write about. Who or what could I discuss that would encompass my view of the feminine and womanhood? I thought of writing of women who shook the world before their time, of famous politicians, scientists, artists, etc. Then it hit me, the women I need to spotlight on this special day are mothers.

I am so grateful for my mom and all she has done me. I am grateful for the women who have entered my life and acted as mother figures. So often mothers comfort others when their own needs are greater than those being comforted. I believe that the empathy shown by mothers during their own strife is a portion of divinity.

If we could see the real history of mankind in its entirety, would it feature the echoes of war and gunfire or the shaping sound of lullabies? The great fights of men or the peacemaking of mothers in their homes and neighborhoods? Neal A. Maxwell asked: "Would what happened in cradles and homes prove to be more controlling than what happened in congresses?" I think so.

Thank you all who have acted as wonderful mothers and mother figures. You have helped make the future a brighter place and this girl is very, very grateful for you.

The Truth Hurts

2011-03-07T23:39:00.009-07:00

I know these videos are old, but they crack me up! Let me say that I am all for "girl-power" (read my blog if you don't believe me), but that first video is why I prefer to hang out with groups of men. Although, the example in the second video isn't much better...

Boys will be Girls:

Girls will be Boys:

A Bird's Eye View of My World

2011-03-07T21:58:00.003-07:00

I spend the majority of my days studying in the Harris Fine Arts Center at Brigham Young University and I never know what fun things I will be a spectator of. I took these photo's from my phone while I was on my way to an art class in February. It was the Ballet Department's premier of Cinderella. Before the show began the main floor was crowded with little girls adorned in fluffy tutus, glistening tiaras, and feather boas, anxiously waiting for their turn to meet the cast.

Don't Forget

2011-03-06T23:55:00.002-07:00

'Whatever comes,' she said, 'cannot alter one thing. If I am a princess in rags and tatters, I can be a princess inside. It would be easy to be a princess if I were dressed in cloth of gold, but it is a great deal more of a triumph to be one all the time when no one knows it.'

-Frances Hodgson Burnett, A Little Princess.

Since infancy I have loved the story of Sara Crew in "A little Princess." I never forgot her courage or determination. The lessons I learned from the story have stayed with me into adulthood.

If I could get one message through to the little girls I work with, or any girl for that matter, it is how much they are worth. It matters not where you come from or your circumstances all girls are princesses.

Reflections: Feb 20th-26th

2011-03-05T01:06:00.004-07:00

I spent the majority of last week being sick. So I will skip most of the details (you are welcome) and write about the only good day, Saturday.

Saturday the 26th was very fun and very French!

During the day I got a ton of work done and in the evening I went over to my friend Ian's house and he and I made brie in puff pastry! I was a little nervous at first (due to the mold on the outside of the cheese) but I am glad that I tried it. It was actually really tasty! After we cooked and ate the Brie with French bread we watched the movie Amelie. It was an excellent film! One of my new favorites! :)

After that I went and saw one of my favorite local bands Ferocious Oaks play a show to promote their EP release. They were brilliant as ever.

With a new cd, a new taste for moldy cheese, and a new favorite flick I felt a little richer after Saturday.

Reflections: Feb 13th-19th

2011-03-05T00:40:00.005-07:00

Hello!

I am sorry I know it has been a while since I have posted a weekly reflection. The past two and half weeks have been very eventful! So much so, that I am overwhelmed trying to figure out how and where to begin. But I will do my best to recapture what has been happening in my life here in Provo. I will begin with the last week, and a little of the week before that.

For starters...

The last few days (well...for a while) my hair has been seriously out of control. In some ways I have to admire its spirit despite its difficulty. It has refused to be tamed or manipulated.

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With that said, I will begin writing about the bigger and better things ha ha. On Wednesday the 15th I was blessed and privileged to meet with a very renowned Illustrator C.F. Payne (Chris Payne)!!! For those of you who are unfamiliar with him, he is a man who has been dynamite in the illustration world for a long time. He has won multiple awards from every notable illustration and design institution you can think of.

He came to my school to give a demonstration and a lecture. During the demo I lucked out! For four hours I was able to sit in the seat right beside him and ask him questions and watch him paint.

Here are some of the main points I learned from Chris:

Always start with a gesture; look for dominant shapes.
You are only as good as your reference.
The work is the fun part of it- dive into it! It's where you want to be, there is only pressure when you are not working.
DESIGN is the most important! Communicate an idea and make it make sense.
KEEP IT SIMPLE-To design successfully you have to see shapes. Look at the space and design the picture. Don't get so caught up in little details.
Experiment!
Don't work in isolation, network and communicate with other illustrators and artists often.

Spending the day with Chris (at his demo and at his lecture) taught me so much! I learned so much from him. I also couldn't believe how nice, open, and honest he was! He answered all of my questions and the questions of my peers. Not only that but when I spoke with him I felt like he was sincerely trying to help me; that he really wanted to do all he could to help me improve and succeed.

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On Thursday the 16th I received lots of letters from Ben! They were incredibly sweet and turned my Thursday, which is normally a LONG and exhausting day, into a wonderful day!

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Speaking of letters! I owe an apology to many of you. There were so many who I wished to write a letter of love to but February ended up being super busy and school/work demanded most of my time. Please do not feel bad if you didn't get one! My parents and some of my best friends were slighted too. >.< sorry!!! I will work harder next year to get them in the mail - delivered.

I was able to make and deliver some on Sunday to my family on my Grace side who live in Utah. We met on the 20th and had dinner at my Grandma's house to celebrate my cousin Heather's birthday! Whoever said that "there is no such thing as fun for the whole family" obviously never met mine. My family is wild and I love spending time with them! I especially loved the desserts of the evening! My grandma made her specialty strawberry short cake and Danielle (Heather's sister) made cupcakes that looked like sushi. I know to many reading this that will seem random but Heather works at sushi restaurant so really the cupcakes were quite clever and fitting. :)

These are how my letters/valentines turned out.

Heather with her birthday strawberry short cake

Danielle and her "sushi" cupcake creations. Cute huh?!

My Aunt and Lucy

My dad playing with Lucy and Tyler.

For Your Nerdy Enjoyment

2011-03-03T01:08:00.001-07:00

For those of you who do not know March is the month that celebrates women's history and achievements. And the Smithsonian Channel is all set to participate! All this month the channel is focusing on many of the world’s greatest female scientists. On top of that the channel’s website has turned stories of inspiring scientists into short comics! The comics serve as a preview of the shows that will be airing this month.

These smart ladies run with wolves, tackle the question of immortality, and go on adventures around the world to study rare species.

Can you handle all the brainy excitement?

Source
Bust & Smithsonian Channel

Sick of Exams...and Just Flat Out Sick...

2011-03-03T00:16:00.005-07:00

"Cher's Dad: You mean to tell me that you argued your way from a C+ to an A-?!

Cher: Totally based on my powers of persuasion, you proud?

Cher's Dad: Honey, I couldn't be happier than if they were based on real grades."

The above statements are from the 1995 movie "Clueless," my all time favorite film adaption of Jane Austen's classic novel "Emma."

While I do not need to argue my grades up, I wish that I possessed the ability to pursuade my teacher into letting me retake a test I missed due to illness. I single handedly evacuated one of the most crowded restrooms at my school. And by some miracle when I finally made it home I was so violently ill that I couldn't roll over without hurling.

Not only did I get to spend the day in that pleasant state, I received my very first "0" mark on an exam. And my professor will not budge with his decision. Brilliant.

A little help Cher?

This Makes Me Smile

2011-03-02T01:15:00.001-07:00

My Bald Self

2011-02-28T23:21:00.003-07:00

With my Metric CD as my companion, tonight I set forth to tackle an 18"x24" bald self-portrait of myself that is due tomorrow at 8 a.m.!

I think I will leave the look to Natalie Portman... I just can't seem to pull it off...

Therapy

2011-02-27T23:41:00.008-07:00

"Therapy: Treatment by some rehabilitating or curative process."

I love to sing and I have been in various choirs since fourth grade. Though I practice often, rarely do people hear me sing by myself. The only exceptions to this were my Grandpa Grace and my old childhood friend, they were the only two who I would/will sing on command for comfortably.

The reason for this isn't so much stage fright as it is that singing is sacred to me. It is my therapy. When my heart becomes so full it spills over, the result has always been that I sing. It is one of the few things that I do solely for me.

I am curious what are some of your therapies?

WAKEFUL NIGHT

2011-02-26T01:01:00.001-07:00

I no longer know
what bridges over
are left
what roads between
are passable.
The frontier is closed
both to questions and to answers.

Still, there must be--
the crossing-point, the detour, the narrow foot-bridge--
the meeting-place!
Where we can talk
freely, as before...

But the only prospects left
are emptiness
and the unanswered letters--

-Osten Sjostrand

A.M.

2011-02-24T07:28:00.003-07:00

This morning with messy hair, chapped lips, and yesterday's shirt still on, I am feeling completely and delightfully human (alive).

Time to start a new day :).

Simply Lovely

2011-02-23T22:40:00.001-07:00

ALLISON WELLS

Aging with Spunk

2011-02-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

I have never been one to fear growing old, I do however fear becoming boring. Here's to women who never lose their "spunk." Ilona Royce Smithkin is 90 and is more full of life than most of the 20 yr olds I know.

Success

2011-02-22T11:37:00.002-07:00

“Success is the progressive realization of worthy goals or ideals.”-Earl Nightingale

"The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary."-Donald Kendall

Right Now...

2011-02-22T02:07:00.001-07:00

BERTA PFIRSICH

It is 2 a.m., I am listening to Hong Kong Garden by Siouxsie and the Banshees. My eyes are glazed over, and I no longer want to work. I want to sleep!

Monday Painting

2011-02-21T20:15:00.003-07:00

For the first time in a long time I can say I am very, very happy it is Monday. Why is that you ask? Because here in the States it is Presidents' Day, which means I get the day off from both work and school! I hope that everyone is having a great holiday. I have used mine mainly to work on a children's fairytale painting for my illustration class. The image above is how it looks so far, I still have a ways to go with it. Also, I apologize for the messy work space, the zebra printed thing in the upper corner is a blanket... I had to hang it up to block out the sun when it was setting.

The Blues

2011-02-20T14:27:00.001-07:00

B H L D N

I am blue because sadly these lovelies are all out of my budget :(

Improve Your Vocabulary and Fight Hunger.

2011-02-20T11:44:00.003-07:00

When I was a sophomore in high school my English teacher, Ms. Rock, gave us a link to a website that both improves one's vocabulary and gives one a chance to fight world hunger. Freerice.com is a vocabulary game. With each question you answer correctly 10 grains of rice will be donated by Freerice's sponsors to help people living in poverty. The game starts out easy and gets harder as you progress.

If you are looking to sound a little smarter when you speak, fight hunger or kill some time stop by freerice.com and play! Its a win-win situation!

The Unknown

2011-02-19T23:11:00.000-07:00

"If we don’t offer ourselves to the unknown, our senses dull. Our world becomes small and we lose our sense of wonder. Our eyes don’t lift to the horizon; our ears don’t hear the sounds around us. The edge is off our experience, and we pass our days in routine that is both comfortable and limiting. We wake up one day and find that we have lost our dreams in order to protect our days.

Don’t let yourself become one of these people. The fear of the unknown and the lure of the comfortable will conspire to keep you from taking the chances the traveler has to take."

-Kent Nerburn, Letters to My Son

I Wanna Dance With Somebody!

2011-02-19T11:56:00.005-07:00

Why yes, I did start my morning off getting ready with this song.

Whitney Houston I Wanna Dance With Somebody 1987

Friday the 18th

2011-02-19T01:15:00.011-07:00

Hello all,

I have decided to can the idea of only journaling on Sunday. Forget I ever mentioned it. While it still remains true that most of my free time to write will be on that day I prefer to write as it comes to me. Plus I would rather have lots of little posts than one gigantic post a week.

Without further ado, here is my journal entry for today!

-Morning & Early Afternoon-

This morning I woke up early and had my hair cut, colored, and styled. I felt like such a girl and I loved it!

Shortly after I had my hair styled my work held a chocolate fondue party! They really went all out with it. There were many different kinds of chocolates to choose from, my favorite being the melted white chocolate dip yum! It was great to be paid to eat chocolate and hang out with my friends!

- Afternoon -

I am a member of Students for International Development at BYU and it will soon be time for the annual Hunger Banquet they host to raise awareness about global poverty and to celebrate human dignity. Last year the organization hosted a creative competition for the event and I learned this afternoon that they are doing it again this year, woo-hoo!

This year the competition is to promote their theme: "Peace by Piece." Artists can turn in pieces that express the theme with various mediums. I want to submit a painting. :)

-Night (Glorious Night)-

Tonight the moon was bright and the art was great! I went up to Salt Lake City to see the Big-Eyed Women show.

"Big-Eyed Women is a group exhibition of Utah female artists who meet together periodically in order to celebrate womanhood through various forms of creativity. These women represent diverse life experiences and backgrounds. They join together to explore the common strands that are woven throughout their lives as women. Their art touches on universal themes tied to womanhood."

Okay, so I ripped that quote right off the flyer for the show...but honestly, I couldn't have written or described it any better... I went tonight to meet with the artists and to support my friend Emily's work (I wrote about one of her paintings earlier click here to view). I was impressed with the gallery, the art, and the turn out. I was even able to leave with some poetry-creative writing books. Can you say score?

Me being a dork by the art sign.

The girl in the red sweater is Emily! This is one of the paintings she did, isn't it great?!

Heather and Emily by her painting

After the leaving the gallery I went and ate dinner at the Rio Grande, a restaurant that according to many hasn't changed at all in 40 yrs. Their food is sooo good! If you are ever in Salt Lake City stop by there and order the #6. You will thank me.

-Conclusion-

Well, it is really late here where I am writing. To conclude, today was an eventful day, the weather was lovely and lots of good things took place. I hope that you all have a wonderful night!

Later days!

Oh Emily :)

2011-02-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

GIFSoup

Happening Now

2011-02-17T13:08:00.000-07:00

At Midnight Belgium will claim the world record for the longest time without a government. Unlike the previous record holder, Iraq, Belgium (both French and Dutch speakers) looks at the record as an excuse to party and protest with humor.

The protests include:

Growing beards (There is even a website called: "Beards for Belgium")
In Brussels, Ghent, and Leuven there will be free fries (Belgium's national dish)
In many cities people will simply party.

I know that the lack of a government is serious, but who wouldn't appreciate the humorous protests? Here's to you Belgium, way to beat the world record! I wish I could be there to celebrate and eat fries (or as you would call them "chips") with you.

Sources:
BBC
NDTV

Journal

2011-02-16T00:52:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I wrote and originally intended to post this on Sunday. From now on it is my wish to use Sunday as my day to document what has happened during my week. When the semester is over and I have more free time this may change, but I feel that Sunday is the perfect day to publish my weekly adventures. This post will cover two weeks so it may be a bit lengthy. Sorry!

School and Work

(We might as well knock this topic out first)

I haven't been as busy as I am now in a long time. I have sacrificed so much sleep for school and various work projects. Four nights last week I didn't sleep at all and I am still fighting to stay caught up with everything. Its funny when I was a little girl I used to fight and struggle so hard when my parents would try to put me to bed. To me the night seemed magical and mysterious, I felt that I wasted it with sleep. Many times I would lay in bed and think: "I can't wait until I grow up and can stay up ALL night!" I guess it's true when they say be careful what you wish for. If I'd only known that a time would come when I would be lucky and praying for time to sleep!

What are the culprits of my sleep deprivation? A massive essay for my ancient civilization class, a test in another, an outside figure study (the stupid thing had to be drawn on a HUGE scale), a type specimen book, and two paintings. The type specimens in my class turned out awesome. I wish that I could post pictures of them.

Even though I miss sleep I really enjoy the classes I am taking and am happy that I didn't try and lighten my load. In a bazaar way I welcome the heavy workload. You see the last few months my mind has really been stuck on certain things (okay fine a person) and with so much to get done I haven't had time to worry and stress about anything else.

Moving on to...

Last, Last Friday (Aka Feb 4th)

Lately I have been spending time with my mom and my family. My mom works at a university and last Friday she was able to check out a theater room and we watched the 25th Anniversary Edition of Les Miserables. I grew up listening to the 10th Anniversary Edition and I will never fully be able to describe how much this musical moves and inspires me. If I was a crying-type-person I would be in tears by the time the preacher gives Valjean the candle holders every time.

Among the many, many beautiful lines and verses in this musical my favorite is this:

"Take my love,
For love is everlasting.

And remember
The truth that once was spoken
To love another person
Is to see the face of God!"

At the end of the 25th Anniversary Edition they brought out 4 Valjean's who made the musical famous and had them sing "Bring Him Home." Although Alfie Boe is amazing the first Valjean who sings, Colm Wilkinson, is and always will be my favorite. Please watch it, it is beautiful.

After we watched the musical my mom and I went to the Gallery Stroll that takes place the first Friday of the month (click here to read more about it) here in Provo and saw a bunch of good art. My illustration program put on a show for the event as well. There was live music, food, and all sorts of fun.

Saturday the 5th

(Hip-Hop Night)

Something people don't know about me is that I love hip-hop (well...good hip-hop that is), especially when it comes to dancing purposes. On Saturday my friends' bands Chance Lewis and Apt played. It was Adam's band Apt's first show and I have to say I liked it. Adam did a good job!

Skipping to the Next week and the following Saturday...

Saturday the 12th

(The Painting, The Bargain, and
The Bad Love Poetry Reading)

My friend (who happens to be an amazing artist) Emily did a painting entitled "She Saw Pearls." And guess who the model was? None other than me :). The painting along with a few others is now hanging up in a Barnes and Noble in Sandy and yes I was vain enough that I had to go get a picture by it!

While I was at the bookshop I found a treasure in the bargain book pile! For those who may not know I am OBSESSED with the ocean, marine life...and well all things water related. This obsession surfaces a lot in my art, making a book all about the anatomy of ocean creatures a very welcome addition to my bookshelf. :)

Later that evening my friends and I attended a "Bad Love Poetry Reading" at the Parlor. It was so much fun! I ended up reading a poem that I had written in middle school (it was bad) and my friend wrote and read a poem about the band White Stripes splitting up. My favorite though, was when a girl stood up and announced that her poem was called "Love on the Beach" and proceeded to make dolphin, seagull and whale noises.

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T22:31:00.000-07:00

Real Simple

I am wishing all of you lovely people a happy Valentine's Day! I hope you were able to spend it with someone special.

To all of my single friends and readers: This is your year! ;)

Live Our Lives In Color

2011-02-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

"Gray is out. Gloom is gone. It’s time to live our lives in color!"

There are many ways to brighten the world around us. I recently discovered and signed up for a project that is too cool not to share! In March of last year, Dulux Paint started an international outreach project called "Lets Colour" to spread color to drab and dreary regions of the world. Their hope is that in transforming gray and weathered spaces (including houses, schools, bus stops, town squares...etc) to brightly colored spaces they will transform the communities and the people within them as well.

Stop by their site, the project's blog records the outcome in each city, as well as the locals' color choices and where their inspiration comes from. If you are like me and can't just drop everything and travel to places like India or Brazil at the current time don't fret! There are lots of ways to be a part of this neat project.

Brian Dwyer extended an invitation on his blog for people to join saying: "To those of you reading who favor brilliance and excitement over the mundane and depressing, I highly recommend picking up a paint brush and giving it a shot sometime."

What are we waiting for? Lets start coloring! :)

Sources:
Let's Colour
Bust Magazine

To Make : Pantone Cookies!

2011-02-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

As an aspiring artist and designer I am very familiar with pantone chips. I love them and I use them often when I am trying to find just the right hue or create a good color pallet. I also am very familiar with and love cookies. So I was very excited when I found the work the designer Kim Neill featured on Fossil's archive page. This designer combines the best of both worlds!

Neill says that she came up with this clever idea when she discovered some empty pantone tins while searching through an art supply store. When she saw them she thought "what better a way to fill the tins than with cookies?"

The best part is that on her website she gives the recipe to make them! I am trying to put together a show to display my work and maybe I will serve these delectable goodies. :)

Check out Neill’s page and look at her recipe for the cookies Here.

Wish I had Known About This!!!

2011-02-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

Artclash writes:

"It's time to get ready for our 7th Annual Fun-A-Day project, happening in January 2011! The premise is simple: pick a project (take a photograph, make the bed, draw a picture, bake a cake, etc), do it every day in January*, then show your work the following month in a big group show. Browse our photo archives for inspiration, and post your project ideas in the form below!

If you would like to participate, submit your project by the submission deadline for the show you want to be in (usually in the first or second week of February*). We will post submission guides and show information on this website as soon as those details are available. No registration required and we show all work we receive!"

I really wish I had known about this earlier! It would have been so fun!

Hey All My Fellow Blog Followers!

2011-02-12T00:46:00.000-07:00

Well its official, I have become a bit addicted to blog following (also known as blog-stalking...however, I prefer the first term). You know what? I am glad that I have because I discovered that my friends are very good writers!

If you are looking for a good read check out my friend Mallory's blog. To get to her page you can click here or, she recently did a really good post on beauty that you can click here to read.

----

I came back to this post because I had to add another blog to it. I didn't ask permission and I will remove it from this post if my friend wishes. But Kelsey's blog "and Everything" is one of the best I have read. Her writing always moves me to be true to myself and makes me want to be better. I hope that she goes on to publish something someday. Click here to view her page.

Stargazing: The North America Nebula

2011-02-12T00:13:00.001-07:00

Wow this is crazy! In our galaxy there is an emission nebula (a cluster of young forming stars) that looks remarkably like North America. Look at the resemblance of the Gulf of Mexico!

Anyway, even though astronomers have known about this nebula for a while, it showed up in news recently because a new image from NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope of the North America nebula shows more than 2,000 new, candidate young stars in the region, where only about 200 were known before.

Everyone is excited about the discovery and how the infrared image is so different from that of the visible image...but I am still freaking out about how the nebula looks in visible light.

Source: NASA

2011-02-10T00:11:00.000-07:00

I am fairly certain that...

Butter

&

Salt

Are going to be my downfall...

2011-02-07T22:26:00.000-07:00

I wanted to do a post that related to Valentine's Day, the following is a spilling of my thoughts, it is very rough and I do not pretend that it is perfect or that the list contains everything.

In love I need:

A partner who is willing to show up; A man who has the strength to trust and open up
A sense of belonging
Someone who understands
Desire and "EEEEE--!" (And "OH Yes!")
Real genuineness
A partner who will laugh and have fun and cherish me to my core
A good work ethic
I need to be able to surrender
I need exponential

-------------------------------------------
On a different note:

To my friends and family,

I am still working on those valentines-letters (see reference here). School has been keeping me super busy. So don't fret if you haven't received one yet!

Take Me There: Netherlands

2011-02-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

This video is awesome, I love riding my bicycle places. I think I would be right at home in Utrecht Netherlands. Maybe I will live there for a while someday.

Bicycle Rush Hour Utrecht (Netherlands) III

R.I.P. Old Glasses, Hello New Glasses!

2011-02-04T22:20:00.000-07:00

I am very sad to announce that two weeks ago my lovely Karen Kane Lily Field glasses passed away. There was a tragic accident when I was leaving my figure drawing class. I happened to look down at something and they slipped off my face. They landed in such a way that they snapped completely and perfectly in half. Seriously, it looks like someone cut it on the bridge with a laser!

I remember the day I got them, they were the first to catch my eye in the display. Sleek black and lime green on the inside, I knew the moment I saw them that they were meant for me. Even their name, "lily field," was perfect. For those who don't know I am a sucker for lilies. They served as good glasses these past 3 and a half years, and they will be missed.

That being said...

This week the new glasses I ordered (shown in the pictures above) came in and they are freaking sweet! I adore them with their purplish-reddish color, wider lenses and stellar profile view. They fit me a little better than my older pair as well. Normally I am a contact wearer but with these new beauts I may just be seen sporting the "glasses look" more often.

Who says men don't make passes at girls who wear glasses?

He Came Through!

2011-02-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

Image from abc

Well don't I feel sheepish, in my earlier post (click here to read) I complained how the stupid groundhog always seems to see his shadow, thus predicting a longer Winter. But the little guy and his shadow (or lack of one) came through for us this year!

Phil came out of his hiding in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvainia and did not see his shadow. For those who believe in the tradition this means we can anticipate an early Spring. Here's to hoping the furry prognosticator is right! I am ready for Spring and warm weather.

Source

February the Month of Love (And Sometimes Bitterness...)

2011-02-02T22:11:00.001-07:00

Source via

I know I have posted a lot today, for the first time in what feels like ages I actually have a little time.

Well its here, February, the month we associate with love. The month that makes me think of the colors pink and red, of candy hearts, paper valentines and all things lovey-dovey. Although this notorious month can generate dread through the single community, I believe it is a good thing we associate "love" with February. Why you ask? Because of its dreary and cold weather (in Utah, especially Provo Utah, at least), lasting holiday bills, and the stupid groundhog who always sees his shadow, if it wasn't associated with "love" it would be associated with "hate." So I welcome the reminder that we all need a little more love in our life. :)

Actually, February happens to be one of my favorite months. I am a bit of a sucker when it comes to love. As the saying goes "I love to love" not just a significant other, but my friend's as well! I read a brilliant idea on a blog that I am going to try this month.

Image from Three Little Chickies

It is my goal to write 28 letters of love for my friends, family, and the boy I am crazy about. One for each day. I know this means that I will have some catching up to do, but I am excited. If you are in my inner circle look forward to a letter! :) Depending on how much time I have to devote to this project, I may turn the letters into postcards with some fancy doodle or ink work on them. That way it will be a good way to practice my art as well.

Well, it is late so I am going to go. Happy February everyone! Brace yourself for more mushy posts about Valentine's Day.

Time Traveling : 1960s

2011-02-02T21:41:00.000-07:00

Some days I like to time travel with my outfits. I love the 1960s fashion scene! I found a really fun video about it and had to share it. Now everyone can time travel with me! :)

Word Wednesday

2011-02-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

Gump·tion/ˈgʌmpʃən/ [guhmp-shuhn]
–noun informal

1. Initiative; aggressiveness; resourcefulness.
2. Courage; spunk; guts.
3. Common sense; shrewdness.

Source via

D a c e

2011-01-31T01:00:00.001-07:00

"Light,
Airy,
Natural,
Free"

If I had to choose, these would be the words I would use to describe the mood I am trying to incorperate in my personal style and in my spring fashion designs this year. So naturally when I stumbled upon the work of Dace Moore I instantly fell in love. Not only with her fashion, which convey a sense of classic femininity, but with her marketing. Perhaps it is terrible that the image and video I have chosen to showcase of Dace are a year (and a few seasons) old, but I was enraptured by them. When I have time to do a little heavier browsing I will post some things from the 2011 collection. If you have a minute be sure and watch the video!

2011-01-30T00:44:00.000-07:00

Right Now...

After spending 15 hours on Campus on a Saturday (a gorgeous, sunny Saturday) I could really go for one of these.

Hello everyone,

Technically it is Sunday the 30th. But I am writing about Saturday the 29th. I wish I could write to you about the splendid time I spent at the zoo, or about the great Night Night concert at the Story Tellers Show (an event at Velour, a local venue, where the bands tell the stories behind their songs before they sing them), or about the fun time I had baking brie with my friend Ian. But alas, all of the above are what I had to give up today. Instead, I spent 15 hours of what was probably the warmest and sunniest Saturday of the season on campus.

These days I have been spending WAY TOO MUCH time at school. On average I am at school from 8am to 10pm working on various things. The following weeks and weekends don't look any more promising either. I may just have to change my address to that of the library's pretty soon. Yuck!

I know I shouldn't complain about school. Don't get the wrong idea I am very grateful for the opportunities I have been given to be educated. Especially after reading UNICEF's recent report on the reopening of the main girls school in Pakistan's Swat Valley. It had been closed for most of the year due to insurgency, ensuing military operations, and flood conditions. After hearing how happy this one school's reopening made so many it is hard to take my own schooling for granted.

My whining aside, today was actually a really good day. I got a lot accomplished! My type specimen (In my earlier post I called it a font book. That was an incorrect term for what I am doing, so sorry to mislead.) is turning out awesome! I am ready for my upcoming test, and my paintings? Well... they are coming. I may scream a few profanities before they are finished...but they are coming. I'll leave it at that.

On a side note, For those who live in the U.S. does anyone know anything about the whole "re-introducing the Internet kill switch" bill? It doesn't sound good. Especially with everything that is happening in Egypt now.

Carmen Sandiego

2011-01-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

Does anyone remember the show "Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego"? Carmen has to be one of my favorite cartoon characters of all time. She was a stylish international thief with a high code of morals. She only stole for the challenge of it. Many times she even teamed up with the heroes Zach and Ivy to stop the more corrupt criminals. I was fascinated by her when I was little, I even had a wallet with her picture on it that I took everywhere with me. Embarrassing? Maybe but it is true. Oh that I were as cool as Carmen.

In conclusion, I would so much rather be watching old Carmen Sandiego episodes than working.

Peter Can I Visit You and Tink in Neverland?

2011-01-27T15:57:00.000-07:00

I would love to live in a place with pirates, faeries, and a mermaid lagoon. Wouldn't you? I may not be able to live there but last night I was able to visit such a place when my family and I went and saw the play Peter Pan. Its been a while since I have been to a play and I really enjoyed it.

It was a musical version of James M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan.” I really bought into the girl who played Peter Pan. She was energetic and nailed her role. Everyone did a good job in the cast. The orchestra was great as well.

When I was leaving my figure drawing class the night before I saw the play, I met the little boy who played Michael. He was so cute! He was still in character and spoke with a remarkably good British accent for a little boy from Orem Utah. Ha ha.

Next Month the de Jong Concert Hall is going to do Cinderella. I can't wait to see that one!

Art Has Consumed My Life

2011-01-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

Whoever said that artist's were lazy was seriously deluded. This week I have started working on a font book for my typography class. For those who are unfamiliar with the term (as I was a few weeks ago), a "font book" is a book that displays original, digital typefaces and presents them in a systematic way. Although font books normally display many typefaces, my assignment is to focus on one. I am to market my typeface's strengths on 12 pages in a unique and flattering way. The best part of the assignment? I have to make and bind the freaking book myself in a professional and creative fashion.

Seeing as I have never made my own book I have spent the last little while in the library looking up and studying book binding techniques. I have a feeling that the binding won't be the difficult part. Figuring out the printing is going to be the nightmare!

I am excited for this assignment, these books can turn out really neat when they are done well. I found a woman online who is brilliant at them. If you are interested at all in graphic design check out Claire Smalley's portfolio: http://www.clairesmalley.com/index.html. Her work is incredible! I hope that mine turns out half as good.

Along with my font book, I have to complete a narrative painting and a children's fairytale illustration. Did I mention that they are all due on the same day? If my paintings turn out good I will post pictures of them on this blog and my new art blog: Ink Blots and Paint Stains.

For my narrative painting we were given scenario's to work with, mine is "Dining Alone." I had my friend Alyssa model for me and we spent last Friday running from restaurant to restaurant in Provo center street and University Ave until I found the perfect one. The restaurant we took the photos in and ate at was called Spark. It is beautiful inside. I'll post some of the images I am using as a reference. I apologize, I am not a photographer and the photos when enlarged aren't that great. They were taken with a basic point and shoot and I didn't want to disrupt the natural light so I didn't use the flash of my camera. Also, I focused my camera on the center of her figure vs. her face to help with the distortion the camera creates.

(I believe I am going to use the above image as my reference. I love how her white cardigan looks with the dark background and the red couches behind her. I also love how the couches lead your eyes to her face.)

(I love the shadows on her face in this image!!!)

(Here is a random image of the food we ordered, fancy huh?)

I really like how the reference images turned out. Plus it was fun to go eat dinner and hang out with my friend. She was a great help and I am very indebted to her. I am not that far in my fairytale piece, but I will post pictures of my progress work and the end result later.

Today's Thought

2011-01-21T19:27:00.001-07:00

"Use everything in your means to bring about a better world." - Mairead Corrigan Maguire

Did you know that yesterday marked the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy's inaugural address? The very address when the famous phrase "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." was spoken. I feel we can take the message of those words and apply them to more than our country. What can we do for our family, friends, community, country, and world? I don't mean to sound preachy, but I feel that each of us has the capability and responsibility to offer so much back. These acts to make a world a better place don't always have to be extraordinary. There was a time when I was saved by someone's smile and small acts of kindness. The very actions that meant the world to me I am certain she never thought twice about. We were both kids and she used what was in her means-smile, be friendly, be understanding- at the time to make the world around her better.

The term "human race" can seem very abstract when spoken. But the truth is that the human race is you and me. Humans are made to be interdependent. We need other humans to be human, because of human consciousness and capacity we have the single greatest impact on all life on this planet. This is a huge responsibility and one that needs to be upheld not neglected. We need to use our means to try and make things brighter.

Anyway, sorry, I kind of went off on a rant... If anyone is bored take a moment and read Kennedy's address it was one of the most influential political and presidential speeches in history.

Conte Animated Blew Me Away!

2011-01-20T22:17:00.002-07:00

Tonight I was blown away by an exhibit in gallery 303 of the Harris Fine Art Center. The Exhibit showcased Ryan Woodward's work of Conte and his most recent animated work "Thought of You." The animation is a dance animation and it blew me away. The amount of talent and creativity exerted by some individuals never ceases to amaze me. Really, I was blown away tonight. Maybe some won't appreciate the rough gestures done in Conte. Trust me it is not easy to create, let alone make it successful and interesting. It is incredible the way he manipulates his lines and how he nails the shapes, and directions. His figures feel as though they are alive and moving!

Tonight was the exhibit's opening night and I was able to meet with the artist himself, he gave me some great insight on techniques and business. Sometimes it is daunting to go to shows where the work is so much better than your own. When the artist is leagues ahead of your own meager abilities. However, I also love it. I love seeing the possibility and what my work can someday become if I work hard. I almost feel it is dangerous to fall in love with your own work. The moment we become completley satisfied with our work and ability we become static and changless. I am a a little afraid of reaching a point I become so satisfied with my own work I feel I no longer need to grow. Such a state sounds dangerous.

Anyway to my friends and family who live in Utah or anyone else who lives here go see this exhibit ASAP! For those who are unable to go I will post the animated video below and some of his sketches from the exhibit. Here is a link to his Ryan's Webpage http://conteanimated.com/, go check it out :) Also Check the video out. I hope that you all enjoy it as I certainly did.

Wishing Everyone A Good Day

2011-01-20T11:09:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone, I am currently sitting in the Tanner Building at Brigham Young University. Along with the JFSB, the Tanner Building happens to be my favorite building on campus. I love the way it is designed and its very atmosphere. It is wonderfully sunny outside. I wish I could write more but I have to work on a few projects and contact someone clear on the other side of the planet. I hope that everyone one, wherever you are, is having as nice a day as I am. :)

-Ashley

Oh My

2011-01-17T12:47:00.001-07:00

My friend Ben is serving an LDS mission in Brazil. We write each other often and today I received an email from him containing a bunch of pictures. One of them I have to share because it is quite possibly the most frightening thing I've ever seen ha ha.

L.O.V.E.

2011-01-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

William Shakespeare said: "Love is blind."
Pat Benatar said: "Love is a battlefield."
If both statements are true do any of us stand a chance?

I've missed writing

2011-01-08T18:11:00.000-07:00

For the past year and a half my energy has been completely absorbed by art, work, school, and hanging out with my friends and family. Because of this I have become tragically negligent to my other love "writing." I miss painting with words as well as a paint brush. I miss finding ways to weave words to express any feeling. And really I miss blogging.

My "writers-block" is over and I really wish to begin posting more. I am not making any promises that I will repent of my blog-slacking ways. But I am going to try. Also I am not going to spend a lot of time catching up and writing about things that happened last year. I want to begin fresh, a lot happened last year and attempting to recapture it would overwhelm me. I want to post about events and thoughts as they come.

If I have any followers left I've missed you guys!

XOXO

Ashley

The drawing of the the typewriter was done by vol. 25

May Our Love Never Become Dull

2010-06-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

To my future lover-boyfriend-or husband,

When Valentine's day, my birthday...or whatever "special day" approaches and you have no idea what to get me... Know that more so than diamonds, pearls, or any other fancy trinket, I would like pair of spanking new Gingher Shears with a sweet inscription on it.

On Nights Like to Tonight...

2010-02-24T23:58:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of being grateful, I decided to take a moment and pause from the writing that has consumed my life and declare I am very grateful for Mountain Dew. Though I rarely indulge in high levels of caffeine--lets face it, it isn't healthy for you--on nights like tonight when I have six more pages left that I need to write and write well, I am pretty glad the beverage exists and that I can down one, or two...or ten and stay alert enough to accomplish the task at hand. I am particularly thankful for Baja Blasts, they are my favorite! I often find myself cursing inside that they only sell them at Taco Bell and not in 12 packs at local convenience stores. Then again maybe it is a good thing, I would drink far too many of them were they that available. As I stated caffeine really isn't healthy for you...perhaps I should look into vitamin B-12 as a healthier substitute for my late nights. It wouldn't taste as good though. :(

I am sorry!

2010-02-24T10:19:00.000-07:00

So I am not to the point where I want to go "Derek Zoolander" on my computer because of spam but I am almost there. Lately I am finding weird anonymous comments with links to websites I don't know (if you are a culprit knock it off!). I haven't clicked on the links and I would recommend that you don't either. I am going to try messing with my settings to help with the spam.

Again I am sorry!

P.S. For those of you who leave comments that actually relate to my posts or are in no form "spam" related, feel free to do so! :) I enjoy reading what you have to say.

Adventures with Maddie 1.

2009-10-22T20:53:00.000-07:00

(Note to the reader: I found this post whilst looking through all of the entries this year I haven't posted. I know it is old, but I couldn't figure out why I didn't publish it at the time. This year I began mentoring a little girl at an elementary school near by. I have had so much fun and learned so much from her. I plan to write more about my adventures with Maddie, however this was our first so I feel I need to post it :). )
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men⋅tor /ˈmɛntɔr, -tər/
–noun
1. a wise and trusted counselor or teacher.
2. an influential senior sponsor or supporter.

Alright, alright, by no means do I fill the role of the actual definition of the word "mentor." But I did agree to start mentoring a first grade little girl, Maddie. Tomorrow is my first day and I am really excited and a little nervous, what if she doesn't like me???

For one of our activities (I can't decide if I will be patient and wait till next Friday, or just do it tomorrow...) I have a really fun Halloween themed session! I can't wait. One of my girl's goals is that she wants to be able to read better, so I found the cutest beginner book called the "Wild Witches' Ball!"

It is adorable! After we read the book I thought it would be fun to draw (with Halloween colored crayons!) our own witch ball dresses and other Halloween themed things. Along with designing our own witches ballgowns I am bringing gold and silver Mardi Gras type masks that we can glue sequins and plastic jewels on to! I really hope she has fun with it! I am also bringing her a little goody-bag with candy corn, pop rocks, a witch sucker, and a little pumpkin toy. I really hope she likes it!

Words From A Very Wise Woman

2009-10-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you for the letter Maya Angelou! Your words meant a great deal to me. :)

Sincerely,

A most grateful daughter

If anyone is interested here is a link to order her book:
http://www.amazon.com/Letter-My-Daughter-Maya-Angelou/dp/1400066123

Lets Avoid "Yoga Toes" Before They Happen.....

2009-10-18T22:42:00.001-07:00

(Let it be known that I was highly debating publishing this post. Most of the time I am pretty grossed out by feet, but I think that is both really funny and somewhat relieving that they make a product such as this.)

Whilst I was stretching today my mother walked by and mentioned, to my great horror, that if I kept this up I was going to get "yoga toes!" Curious as to what this frightening statement meant, I Googled the term and found out that people who practice yoga often end up with REALLY gnarly toes. GROSS!!!!

Fear not! I was relieved to find during my Googling that there is a cure and solution to the problem. And that solution is...

(Original name huh?)

Apparently, they also relieve the pain one gets after wearing high heeled shoes all day. If they work I am game. Really though my main concern is keeping my toes straight! Yuck...and here I thought I was doing my body a great favor by doing yoga. I suppose that is what I get for trying being healthy.

A Break from Midterms.

2009-10-11T15:30:00.001-07:00

It has been awhile since I have harnessed my creative energy into a sewing/craftsey project. Well actually, with this semester's emphasis on GE's, political sciences, and international relations, it has been a while since I have harnessed my creative energy at all in the field of art. (Part of the reason I needed to look through images to get my creative juices flowing. (If you don't know what I am talking about, read the post directly below this one.))

To help let off some steam in between my studies, I decided to start sewing a dress I have wanted to make for quite sometime now. However, because it is the season of midterms (Yay...) it will probably be a while before it is complete.

Gold Rush

2009-10-11T00:10:00.000-07:00

Today I was looking through images to help inspire me. While I was browsing it soon became apparent that my muse was suffering from a case of gold fever. Everything that stood out to me consisted of orange, gold, and black. I have never done any pieces with emphasis on any of these three colors before so I am really excited! I am not sure what I am going to do yet, but I think it would be fun to start dark and work from there. Perhaps I will use a dark card with a gold color pencil? I also have a bunch of gold leaf oil paint that I have been itching to use!

2009-10-10T14:51:00.000-07:00

Awhile ago I found this note while browsing through a book store. It was crumpled up on one of the shelves. Reading it, I was struck by its content. There have been many times in my life when I have been faced with the uncertainties expressed in this piece of paper.

Though, I try to stay away from the fear of success (What good does it do the world if we shirk away from our capabilities and be little ourselves?) I couldn't help wonder what it is that makes us fear success and happiness sometimes as much as failure? Does it tap into human's natural fear and excitement of the unknown? Or is it because that life teaches everyone of us ( I say that with confidence) that what goes up inevitably goes down? After all, the fall is greater when you are "on top" than if you stay where you are. Perhaps it is both or neither of the two scenarios I have stated?

Either I Am Really Immature...Or This Is Really Funny.

2009-10-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

When one walks into the girl's bathroom in the Cafe Rio in Orem this is exactly what one finds. I almost died when I walked in and saw this. The restaurant has quotes of customers and crictics painted all over its walls. This just happens to be the one (and only one) in the girl's room, and it just happens to be slapped directly above the toilet (In the color brown no less...). Am I the only one who finds this hilarious?

....I Can't Believe It!

2009-09-06T19:52:00.000-07:00

Well, I suppose after five years of dating and almost a life time (so far) of friendship it was about time we "officially" welcomed John into our family. Congratulations John and Shelby!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy for you! Shelby was ravishing, and the ceremony and the reception were absolutely beautiful!

It was about this time when every girl in the brides maid party started to get misty eyed.

During the vows and after they kissed physical tears were shed, it really was so beautiful.

Here is my favorite picture of Shelby and of course most of her a-m-a-z-i-n-g bridesmaids (I'll post another pic with crystal in it). In order from left to right: Cassandra, Brenna, Shelby, Me, and Dana

Here's Crystal!!! (From left to right: Crystal, Brenna, Cassandra, Me, Dana)

Hmmm...There are so many pictures I would like to share maybe I will just make a slide show and post it.

I Am Repenting Of My Blog-slacking Ways!

2009-08-15T18:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know that I have become the entity of the term "blog-slacker." I suppose I just got really bored of writing about me all of the time. A consistent blogger really cannot help but feel somewhat narcissistic at times. So I needed a little break.

However, this evening my family and I went and saw the movie Julie and Julia. It was such a darling movie! After watching it I was reminded of how much fun blogging is! ....And also of how much I love food and butter, ha ha! I know that I may not be a cook like both of the Julies were in the movie, and seldom will I blog about recipes, however, I am throwing my "blog-slacking" ways to the wind!

I hope I can offer my readers more stories from my often crazy life and thoughts from my even crazier mind :).

Happy Fathers Day!!!

2009-06-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

Dad, I know that you and I too often clash heads, but thank you so much for always being there for me. You are the one who taught me that magic is everywhere and all you have to do is look for it. I have had a lot of good memories with you but I will always treasure the memory of you reading Lord of the Rings to me at night when I was a little girl and falling asleep to the sound of your voice.

I love you Dad, I hope you had a great Fathers Day!

I Love To Ride My Bicycle!

2009-06-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

(No, sadly this isn't my bicycle. Yes, Tanner, I did steal this from your blog: http://tansbeachcruisers.blogspot.com/. Hook me up I want it!!!!)

After I finished eating dinner (that I made for once) I headed out on my bicycle and zipped through the neighborhood. It had stopped raining and was pretty decent outside so I had to jump...or bike (I am so clever, ha ha) at the chance. It was so much fun! On my expedition I passed a house that had such pretty rose bushes planted towards the edge of the yard. There was one bush of roses in particular that I found fascinating and beautiful, it did not consist of one main color, but three! The centers varied between vibrant yellows and oranges, and the middles and the ends contained explosions of pink. Not only was this unusual rose bush colorful, but the flowers were gigantic and smelled divine.

I can't wait to see what treat I will discover on my next bicycle adventure! :)

Happiness is a Milkshake!

2009-06-14T20:40:00.000-07:00

For as wonderful as it feels to wake up early every morning and do pilates and yoga, let me tell you, it feels just as wonderful to run down to DQ at nine o'clock at night, order and completely devour a milkshake! .....................It may feel a little bit better:P

Its Thunder Cake Time!

2009-06-12T23:51:00.000-07:00

"As summer clouds drift low over the fields..."grandmother looked at the horizon, drew a deep breath and said, "This is Thunder Cake baking weather, all right. Looks like a storm coming to me." - Patricia Polacco

Greetings everyone, from where I am reporting from it is the first major rainstorm of the summer! ha ha. I just came in from...thoroughly enjoying it, and although I took time to first change into warm pajamas and wrap myself snug in a quilt I am still simultaneously shivering as I type.

When the storm started I was leaving the movie theater parking lot. The rain hadn't started to fall yet, but the wind violently whipped my hair about in every direction as I ran to my car. In the distance I could hear thunder, and was reminded of an old children's book I used to read (and actively participated with) during the rainy season in Arizona when I was little.

The book was Thunder Cake by Patricia Polacco. It is a story about the author’s own childhood, how as a little girl she was terrified of thunder and how her grandmother helped her overcome her fear by baking cakes. When the little girl, filled with fear of the lightning and thunder hides under her bed, the grandma coaxes her out and tells her they need to "prepare the cake before the storm arrives, or else it is not a real thunder cake." She then tells her how to gauge how far away the storm is by counting seconds from the flash to the boom. They undergo different tasks to complete the cake while counting the storm's approach. When they get back to the house and place the cake in the oven the grandmother tells the little girl how brave she was for walking outside and completing each task as she did, and that she should no longer be afraid of the sound of thunder. As they pulled out the cake and began to slice it the rain started pouring down on their roof.

It really is such a cute story, I wish I still had a copy of it. As a child, I was never really too frightened of thunder, however, I loved learning how to measure the distance of a storm and practice such a unique way to bake a cake. (The back of the book gives instructions and a recipe to make "Thunder Cake.")

Anyway, back to the parking lot...As I was walking to my car when I heard the thunder I watched for the lightning to appear. Instantaneously when I saw it flash across the sky I began counting. "...One Mississippi, two Mississippi... and so forth," until I heard the loud roar ripple across the sky. It was my immediate reaction to count that reminded me of the book I had read so often in my youth. Although, unfortunately I did not have time to prepare a cake, I did race the storm to my neighborhood, I drove up aways to a road that is high in the mountain and over looks the valley. The neat part is that the counting worked as I parked my car the down pour started. I got out of my car and let the rain soak me as I watched the spectacular light show in the sky.

I cannot wait for the next storm to pass through. When it comes I am going to make myself and all who wish to join me a real thunder cake! I used to do it all the time, and I plan to do it with my kids someday, who knows perhaps it will help them overcome their fear of storms.

"As rain poured down on our roof, Grandma cut a wedge for each of us. She poured us steaming cups of tea from the samovar. When the thunder ROARED above us so hard it shook the windows and rattled the dishes in the cupboards, we just smiled and ate our Thunder Cake. From that time on, I never feared the voice of thunder again."

I've Become One Of "Those" People...

2009-06-08T21:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am starting to wake up early and practice yoga. There is something about combining stretching and meditating that is so rejuvenating! It makes the rest of my day go so much better! Once it stops raining and my lawn dries I am going to start doing it outside in my backyard.

Right Now...

2009-06-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

I just got out from the shower and am taking a break from blow drying my hair. I have all of the windows open in my house and am listening to the wind rustle the leaves around. My cat Figaro is on the bed alert as the edge of the storm approaches. Right now I am waiting anxiously for the rain.

Sorry to Everyone to Whom This Applies....

2009-06-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

I realized yesterday, how bad I am at accepting compliments. To everyone who has ever thrown me a nice word or praise I apologize if I have seemed rude in my response. I just never know quite know how to respond when someone praises me. Instead of a polite thank you and a smile, I somehow manage to butcher my response. I don't want to seem arrogant or rude so instead I just get really shy and awkward. What is up with me that I handle negative feed back so much better than positive feed back? Something seems very sad in that. Oh well life is a learning process right? I just need to work on it I suppose.

A Date To Be Marked On The Calendars!

2009-06-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

After spending an entire day parading around Utah, roaming many a model home and various home goods stores looking for inspiration and materials for my new room. I ended up at my Aunt's house exhausted and tuckered out. Much to my happiness and surprise Debbie (One of the many Mother figures in my life) walks in with two boxes of warm donuts, and excitedly explains to us that today is "National Donuts Appreciation Day!"

It made me and my very, very sore feet happy to (finally) sit down with my family and eat a nice warm batch of donuts while watching Lost.

So may everyone have an excellent National Donuts Appreciation Day!

P.S. Thanks Debbie for the boxes of Donuts!