digital play

I forget how much fun Illustrator can be at times (as long as you know how to work that pen tool ).

Oh yeah! For a lovely audiovisual experience listen to this or this while viewing the image above.

Enjoy!

for the library lover in you

Did you know that the local library has so much more than books?

I’m sure you know this but I needed to be reminded of this recently. It all started with a strong desire to hear Maxwell’s first cd and realizing that I must have given it away  (because I knew I had it years ago). I figured I’d check the online library catalog to see if they had it and guess what? They did! I did a little happy dance and then wondered what else they had to fulfill my musical and culinary appetites.

 

Below is what I found and I’m thrilled! 

 

 

 Now I’ll wait a few days for the items to find their way to my selected library and there you have it…

So, visit your local library because you never know what awaits you!

under the stars

 

Seeing the above image of Nuit makes me thankful for being able to create and seeing others do the same. Please check out Erika’s work. It’s magical and natural!

Kallima Art Gallery

animal messengers

Yesterday it felt like I was in an episode of the Twilight Zone or in a movie being viewed by the Mystery Science Theater 3000 folks. It was strange yet filled with (sometimes funny) messages.

Before resting, I was greeted (and bothered) by several mosquitoes. My natural inclination was to slap them away as soon as they approached me. I’m not fond of these blood suckers because they love to leave large reminders all over my legs of their presence.

Well, I must have assisted about 9 mosquitoes in their transition last night and was mumbling to myself, “What does this mean?!?!”  So, after closing a window that was essentially their doorway to a feast, I picked up my copy of Animal-Wise to gain some insight on this night of mosquito terror.

The following assisted me in learning more about their presence…

Blood infections, of which mosquito bites are, often reflect temporary things we are allowing to affect our vitality and joy. The key is that these things are temporary and should not be dwelled upon.

All irritations of the skin should get us to ask questions about what is aggravating us, what kinds of unresolved issues are irritating us, and what kinds of things we are itching to do but failing to do.

When mosquitoes truly become pests, we need to take a serious look at the environment in which we are working and living. Perhaps we need to be more protective of ourselves. Perhaps we are becoming too still and stagnant.

When mosquitoes appear, irritations are short lived. We should focus on protecting our creative projects, our own sense of joy and accomplishments.

Source — Animal-Wise: The Spirit Language and Signs of Nature

This book has been very helpful along with Animal-Speak. Enjoy decoding those messages in your life!

One…

you need some “p” in your life

Play!

P is for playfulness 

The following suggestions are offered to create a sense of balance. This is especially for those of us who have a tendency to only focus on our stressors throughout our days.

• Perform at least 3 cartwheels each day. This is one way to add fun into your daily exercise.

• Eat outside at least once a week. Use colorful dishes, containers, and utensils to enhance the moment. This experience can assist you in being present and slowing down enough to enjoy your meal and your existence.

• Climb a tree. Climbing a tree enables you to work your muscles naturally while gaining a different view of your surroundings. In addition, it’s just plain fun!

• Keep a set of colorful pens/pencils/markers and a note or sketchpad with you. Use them to record your day through drawings. Expressing yourself in this way will allow you to release daily tensions.

• Talk to strangers. Speaking to people that you don’t know is a great way to enrich your daily experiences. Communicating with folks in general is a wonderful way to learn more about yourself and others.

• Smile and laugh more often. There is usually a reason to do both. Redirect your focus and you’ll find it.

• Write a theme song for yourself and sing it! Songs can be viewed as a form of programming so be aware of what you’re creating while constructing your tune.

Enjoy!

class is in session

Being kinky is freeing…

push on through…

Invitation to grow…Mos Def did his thing with this on the Brown Sugar soundtrack!

Well, this week I placed myself on a talk fast so I could gain some clarity on things. I did not realize how helpful it would be in calming certain frustrations. Since I was not speaking, I was able to receive more (ideas and insight mostly). I was inspired to also write a short story as a result. It went well for the most part but I decided to break it today to contact a friend.

I’ve decided that I will do this more often to stay connected to what is happening within.

One…

serious business

Peace folks!

Today is your day to check out Issue #7 of Purple Magazine. I’m eager to dig into the contents…And oh, yeah!  I’m in it! Yay!

PurpleZoe did a great job with the above fae image.

 

About the following image — Well, the serious business image was created awhile back. I selected a school photo of myself and proceeded to work Photoshop magic. A sisfriend recently reminded me of it, stating that she wants to see it on something wearable.

We will see…In the meantime I’ll continue to sip on my juicy juice.

 

 

One…

fruit of love + fresh

Hand painted onesies for the little ones. Inspired by the new mamas and mothers of the future.

Contact me for further information regarding sizing…

Thanks!

connect

I love this painting! It reminds me of so much of what I enjoy…bright colors, interesting folk, and creative use of space It’s a great reminder too (check out their afros!).

I hope that you enjoy it as much as I do…

greetings world!

Welcome!

This blog exists to promote artful living, abundance, optimal health, and creative power. Thus, I will share what I’ve created (or works in progress) with you. As well as share what inspires me in hopes that it does the same for you.

First up, plantFolk!

Wearing art that makes you feel great and reflects nature’s beauty…

These wonderful plantFolk tree-shirts were created with you in mind. The image is unique, fun, and charged with feelings that are intended to attract abundance, love, and fresh opportunities. 

p.s. When you purchase the tree-shirt(s) you’ll receive an original art card crafted specifically for you.

Additional information on plantFolk, myself, and how you can go about purchasing a tree-shirt for yourself can be located on the plantfolk tree-shirt page.

 

 

 

Thanks for viewing and supporting!

outdoors with higherhustle clothing

Let’s go outside!

Brief Q & A with CEO of HigherHustle clothing.

from the main site:

Higherhustle (hi erhus’el), n v adj: 1. a being who hustles to seek the higher things in life by any means. 2.elevated talk, walk, thoughts towards your life’s mission. 3. your inner swagger. 4. Your Higher Self Hustle

Sounds good to me…

For more information on HigherHustle clothing visit the following links

higherhustle on bigcartel

higherhustle.com     

higherspace

sistah vegan representing!

I’m excited about the following image, which will appear in Sistah Vegan! Food, Identity, Health and Society: Black Female Vegans Speak

 

To learn more about the book please visit the link below

Sistah Vegan!

 

ybor art studio event

 

I’m participating in the upcoming Ybor Art Studio event and I’m geeked!  

I’ll be there sharing my art with others and being inspired by the creatives around me. This is the first event of its kind at this studio so it should be quite an experience. If you are in the area please come through and enjoy the occasion with us.

yay for artists (and their art)!

Ok, I’m back from the art event and I’m glad that I participated!  There were so many talented folks around. It was wonderful to connect with others who are driven to create. I was also excited to learn about what their work meant to them and what they hoped to convey with their efforts. My art (ma’art) is shown below. It was quite an experience to share what I’ve created and then receive such positive feedback  

Many thanks to Melissa Peters for bringing us all together! She’s such a sweet spirit! 

ma’art (my art)

 

Melissa Peters and Janine “the planter” Jackson 

 

Mr.Higherhustle sharing his vision

 

Nicholae Tucker – His work is amazing!

 

Paxton! – His work pulls me in and I just want to stay…

 

So, that’s that! Thanks to all who came through and to those who wanted to come through. Your positive energy was/is greatly appreciated!

i’ve been tagged

Dag, I had no idea what Cy meant by this so I skipped on over to her beautiful online space for clarification.

Ok, 6 things about myself that people may not know…

1. I’m a sensitive soul

2. Intelligence and a sense of humor is valued greatly around these parts

3. I think Dule Hill is kind of fun to watch and can be considered the coolest nerd on tv

4. D’anjou pears are one of my favorite fruits

5. I think Djehuty Ma’at-Ra is an awesome being

6. And, last but not least, Home Movies is one of my favorite adultswim shows

 

Ok, on to the 6th photo from the 6th album on my computer…ok, it’s not really the 6th photo from the 6th album on my computer BUT it is the 6th pic in one of my folders

 

This is a bird residence in a local park…simple yet pleasant to view.

 

And tag 6 more people…sheesh. lol

I’m fairly new to the blog world so this might be a difficult task…

Kara has been lovingly tagged

so has tie

and althea

Hmmm, I’m drawing a blank…

Oh well…power, peace, progress, and prosperity to all!

creating experiences p.2

He possessed an energy that was sincere, which was incredibly comforting. Being very intrigued at this moment, my mind began to race with questions – Was he a vegetarian? If so, could he cook?  How many years had he been living? Was he a solo bird? Did he smoke…anything? Did he drink? What makes him laugh? I decided to wait until we had another chance to converse, if there were to be another.

Almost as if he had picked up on my racing thoughts, he asked a question of his own, “What’s your name?” In a voice dipped in nectar, I answered, “Ada”. Smiling, he replied, “Nice.” Reaching into his olive colored messenger bag, he took a few sips from his water bottle before resuming our conversation. “I’d like to talk to you again, Ada. Do you have a business card?” he asked. 

A business card? I didn’t have one but that question served as a great reminder of why I needed one. I joked that I did not have one but I did have a sleek pen and a scrap of vintage paper. He chuckled a bit and reached into a compartment of his bag and produced a nifty looking card. He had a unique name, one that sounded ancient. The card also revealed that he was a graphic designer and happily self-employed.

After slipping his card into my bag I wrote down my information. Shifting my weight to one side I asked him when would be the best time to contact him. “Whenever you need or want to speak to me,” he replied. I smiled. There was such an ease about him that I knew that he was living in the flow. He just was. And better than that he didn’t have any expectations, simply living in the moment.

I wanted to grab his hand and take him to one of my favored haunts because I knew that it would be a mentally stimulating experience for the both of us. However, I knew I had to move on with the day and would have to end this delicious encounter. “Well, it has been a real treat meeting you today. I look forward to speaking with you soon.” 

Hearing this, he adjusted the strap on his bag and reached into it. Grasping a small stone and rubbing it quickly on his t-shirt, he placed it in my hand. A broad smile painted my face at the thoughtful gesture. It looked a lot like a piece of stone I had in my sacred space. “It has been a treat for me as well, Ada. This piece of chrysoprase will aid you in following your heart, if you allow it.” Looking at me intently he paused briefly, “We’ll connect soon.”

And with those words he disappeared into the walls of books. Gazing at the small greenish stone I thought back on why I visited that bookstore. I was searching for some kind of magic to wake me up, but realized that the magic I sought was easily accessible once I enjoyed just “being” in the moment.

 

creating experiences

I’m sharing the following story with readers because it is a reminder of our ability to create whatever we want in this life. Create what you want!

It was warmer than usual on this day and I sought refuge in a place that was air-conditioned and a worthwhile visit. I decided on the local bookstore. The blast of manufactured air did its job as I headed towards the Metaphysical aisle. Once I reached the section, I was greeted by a number of options. Being currently interested in divination/sorcery, I was thrilled to see titles such as Practical Magic, The Modern Sorceress, The Magical Life, etc.

I glanced down and noticed that there were additional titles so I hiked my dress-top up and was grateful for wearing my comfy jeans that day. Once I found my balance I transitioned into a squatting position, which always created a feeling of strength and ease. I ran my fingers across each title in hopes that a book would select me. While engaged in my finger traveling I wandered into the Wiccan section and let my fingers rest for what seemed like a minute. Snapping me out my mental drift, a molasses drenched voice queried, “Interested in Wicca?” I arose quickly, adjusting my garment simultaneously.

I wanted to respond but my eyes were transfixed on the man that stood before me. He was tall, had a slender but muscular build, possessed a smile that indicated he knew happiness personally, and rocked a ‘fro that could put Huey Freeman’s to shame. Staring blankly at him was all I could manage to do until I became aware of my self. Remembering his question, which seemed to have been asked hours ago, I answered, “Not really. I was just looking for something interesting.”

Attempting to regain my focus, I returned my gaze to the books that waited to be read. Thinking he would have left after our brief interaction I moved towards the end of the aisle to check out additional titles. He stayed near and began thumbing through books while casually looking in my direction every so often. He began looking through a little green book and smiled a bit after skimming a few pages. Handing me the tiny book he stated that he thought I’d find it “interesting”. Smirking a little, I gladly received it and noticed that it focused on nature spirits. Nice choice.

continues here

climbing trees

Today I decided that I needed to go to the local wilderness park because yesterday I was experiencing some funky feeling’s (like W. Ellington Felton). Whenever I feel like that I know it is time for me to take it outside.

I had this idea that I should climb a tree and I did! It was a fun experience. It has been a minute since I’ve climbed a tree so I received some scratches but it was worth it.

Here’s a pic of what I saw while laying back in the bark…

 

Lovely, right?

 

Oh, and I was a featured friend on Ultraviolet Underground ! That was a pleasant surprise.

PurpleZoe is an amazingly creative, smart, and funny sis who you should get to know by following her blog. Plus, Purple Mag is awesome! You can download the past issues to get a taste. She’s also written a fresh multicultural faerie book…

So, that’s that, folks

shine

It’s time to spread the word about other artists who are sharing something unique with the world. So, here we go…

Sister Latifah’s Art

A self-taught artist that  has been creating art for over 25 years in her home-based studio. Sister Latifah’s paintings are inspired by African, Native American and Eastern cultures. She also constructs unique handmade fashion jewelry. Her bold use of color and spiritual influences draws the viewer in to look deeper. Here’s a glimpse into what she sees…

 

To see more of her wonderful creations visit her site 

 

Erika L. Prater’s Art 

An everyday artist having fun with her imagination. Her work breathes with life via the use of fabrics, beads, paints, thread, etc. As a mixed media artist she pulls from various sources of inspiration to create images that seem to be otherworldly. In addition to her painted creations she crafts art dolls that appear to tell stories of their own.

 

To see more of her wonderful creations visit her site

 

support your local (or not so local) artists.

 

let’s take a trip

Let’s continue to spread the word about other artists who are sharing their unique gifts with the world. Next up…

Rachel Stewart

Rachel Stewart’s work is colorful, inspired, experimental, and lively. An artist from the womb, she began to express herself via various outlets (singing, painting, and drawing). However, it was the canvas that allowed her to journey through self expression to explore her past.  Let’s take a trip into her creative field of vision…

 

Space Gumbo

While viewing this piece, I feel as though I’ve taken a trip into another world. 

To see more of her wonderful work visit her site

 

Support your local (or not so local) artists.

medi mama

Greetings Folks!

Many ideas have made themselves known to me within the last few weeks and I want to share the results of this with you.

I’ve been working on this painting off and on for the last two weeks. Thankfully the person who requested ma’art is a patient man. He simply asked that it be 3 x 4 feet and that it complements the color scheme of the room. The image was inspired by the book Opening to Spirit  and her name is “Medi Mama”. She’s wonderful! My intent is that the recipient benefits from having her in his home.

I decided to place her outside since the sun decided to show some love. Mmmm, the sunshine.

She sees you…

The following is a sketch that turned into a drawing that reminded me of “Medi Mama” . This was drawn in September.  When I searched for the meaning of the name Medi I learned that it means September

 

 

The drawing was signed with Thank You because at the time I wasn’t drawing much of anything. So, I was grateful to be able to draw the sis that you see above. 

By the way, I appreciate all the words folks have left here. It means a lot to me.

Power, Peace, Progress, and Prosperity to all!

complete

She’s ready.

 

Changed her hair a bit, now it reminds me of a feather.

Chrysoprase – Traditionally chrysoprase is believed to attract abundance and to help in success in new ventures.

 

Cotton strap with cowrie shell (fertility, prosperity, protection)

 

Colorful and complete 

 

*Image is best viewed while listening to this

Oh, and I attended a cloth doll making class today. It was informative and fun. Sherrie Nordgren was the instructor and I can tell that she loves what she does. You can learn more about her creations here. Her fun dolls inspired me to create my own.

 

 

Focused

 

Power, Peace, Progress, and Prosperity, y’all!

harakiti

Learned of Harakiti via Ultraviolet Underground last year. The person responsible for the flyness sent an email with this short clip preview of the graphic novel. 

Enjoy!

 

Laughed out loud when I saw this in my inbox today because I felt like inflicting tornado style damage yesterday. It’s not always sweet, folks…

avocado ice cream

I made this yesterday and had it for breakfast earlier on today. Yum!

 

Avocado (with a touch of Vanilla) Ice Cream

3 ripe avocados I used two

1 tablespoon lemon juice from a real lemon

1/2 – 3/4 cup sweetener  I used a combination of maple syrup and agave nectar and the amount resulted in the latter measurement listed. You can add a bit more though since the sweetness is subdued once it’s frozen.

2 cups coconut milk  

1 cup almond milk 

1 vanilla bean Slice it length wise and remove the vanilla goodness with your knife or a spoon

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

 

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour contents into the  freezer bowl that accompanies your ice cream maker and follow instructions as directed. Enjoy!

 

Quick tip: Keep freezer bowl in your freezer covered with a bag so it is always ready for use.

 

The recipe above was inspired by several recipes found online. For additional ice cream recipes, check out A Vegan Ice Cream Paradise.