Monday, December 31, 2012

Reflections Amidst Adventures...

Art journal reflections=2013 desired growth opportunities!

This past weekend was marked by a mix of adventure and reflection...

Friday afternoon finished reading Christine Arylo's Madly in Love with Me: The Daring Adventure of Becoming Your Own Best Friend (awesome read!). That evening, I settled in at home, post dinner date downtown; my art journal in hand.  There, I sketched my 2013 growth opportunities--those areas in which I hope to grow, gain skills, shed undesired patterns, etc.

Saturday, following an unexpected overnight snowfall, we ventured to Michigan.  While there, we enjoyed watching the Trans Siberian Orchestra in concert and dinner afterwards with family and friends.

Back at home, again, on Sunday, I created several art journal collages.  Wrote in my writing journal.  Sketched a few action steps toward realizing some of the growth opportunities I mentioned above. Finalized my January dreams.

This afternoon, I'm headed to see Les Miserables with my son.  Funny, but I've been to the theater more this past week than in months (We went to see The Hobbit on Christmas Day afternoon, and I took myself out on an artist's date last Thursday afternoon to watch Lincoln.) All were added ways to infuse a bit of action and adventure into a reflective point in time.

Suggested ways you can get your "reflect" on amidst New Year adventures:
  • Listen to this past Tickled Pink Woman podcast dedicated to year-end reflections (Following a two-week hiatus, a new podcast will launch next week!).
  • Check out my MP3 and e-workbook (a mini retreat dedicated to identifying your guiding mantra and reflecting upon your dreams).
  • Pull your journal and/or art journal out.  Write. Collage. Paint. Sketch. Most of all, reflect upon what's in your heart.

Joy, peace & an adventuresome + reflective New Year's Eve!  T.






Sunday, December 30, 2012

Art Journaling: 2012 Dreams Remembered...

Last January, I still called them "goals."  I also established them quarterly.

By February, I had devised a system that worked scads better for me--in terms of making my life's desires manifest more often.  My "goals" became "my dreams," and I began establishing them on a monthly basis. I developed ways to make time for them, assess their progress and celebrate my accomplishments.  I also learned how fun and totally permissive the whole dream-setting + achieving process could be!

Thought it might be interesting to take a look back at my 2012 dreams as set forth in my art journal.  Hope you enjoy my montage of dreams!

January 2012

February 2012


March 2012


April 2012

May 2012

June 2012

July 2012

August 2012

September 2012

October 2012

November 2012

December 2012

Pleasant dreams!  Joy & peace!  T.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

2012: Top Ten Dreams Realized...

Sweet Dreams!

This year, I joyously marked 50 years in existence, happily vacationed in Colorado, enjoyed family time in Boston, proudly attended my youngest son's college graduation and oldest son's wedding, celebrated my baby sis's sixth year cancer free, formed precious new friendships and several other wonderful life landmarks.

2012 brought its challenges as well; most namely, the unexpected, unrelated deaths of four beautiful family members over a span of only two weeks' time this past fall.  As difficult as that was, it has taught me to not only cherish and celebrate each and every day--along with all the fabulous beings in my life-- but also myself on a deeper, more dedicated level than ever before.

On that note, I'm unveiling my 2012 TOP TEN LIST.  My top ten list isn't about the places I've visited or the momentous family events that have occurred.  It is dedicated to those dreams I made real for myself in 2012. It's my way to realize my own efforts in this past year.  Here goes:

10.  Setting up my own Etsy Shop;

9.   Being interviewed for Terry Cohoe's blog: These Peas Taste Funny (Would welcome being interviewed by other bloggers out there!  Simply email me!)

8.   Launching Tickled Pink Woman television (my YouTube channel);

7.  Creating my MP3 + e-workbook: No Regrets + Self-authored: Making Your Dreams Real...The Tickled Pink Woman Way;

6.   Serving on the local Zonta Club's Committee that created a Z Club at Bowling Green State University;

5.   Being a guest blogger for author Gail McMeekin's Creative Success blog (Would love to be a guest blogger for your blog, too!  Simply email me!);

4.  Having my love letter published in author Jo MacDonald's glorious book, Note to Self: The Secret to becoming your own Best Friend;

3.   Holding my first (for pay) women's art journaling workshop;

2.  Establishing the Tickled Pink Woman podcast;

1.   Launching this blog (on March 5, 2012)!

Take time to list your top ten for 2012.  It is a great way to recognize your efforts and count your accomplishments.  You certainly deserve this spirit-boosting endeavor!


Top ten fave Tabitha photos from 2012!

Joy, hugs and peace!  T.

Friday, December 28, 2012

My 2013 Guiding Mantra...

The page is blank. 
The pen is in your hand.
This chapter (in life) is yours to author…
Please join me in writing the best year yet!

Tickled Pink Woman podcast listeners already know the scoop--the what and why surrounding my 2013 guiding mantra.  Missed that podcast episode? You can access the show notes, link in, and listen to it from here.

My chosen 2013 guiding mantra is: self-authored.  Simply put; self-authored reminds me the figurative page is always blank and the pen is in my hand.  In other words, I always have the ability to self-author my life.

Sure there are a lot of external forces at work in my life (it's the case in all of our lives).  But, when I keep in mind that it is me who possesses the ability to determine how and/or whether to react to each situation that presents itself, I am provided with a sense of greater self-empowerment.  Through my words, thoughts, actions (or chosen lack thereof), I have the ability to self-author whatever situation presents itself to me.  This is a reminder--one that will serve me well in the coming year as it's my greatest desired growth edge: realizing I have this much command over whatever occurs in my life.

Three years ago, I wrote an article for the Examiner entitled, "Affirm a Terrific 2010."  On the brink of 2013, it is still relevant.  You see, in that article, I discuss the ineffectiveness of establishing New Year's resolutions.  I instead offer the use of affirmations as a means of fueling life's desired actions and manifesting subsequent results.

What I found this past year is how very effective it was to establish a guiding mantra for the year; based upon what I sought most (living life with fewer regrets).  In essence, a guiding mantra is an affirmation.  It's one dedicated to directing my actions in a very specific way.

My MP3 and e-workbook: No Regrets & Self-authored: Making Dreams Real... The Tickled Pink Woman Way is a fabulous mini retreat dedicated to establishing your guiding mantra for the coming year and envisioning your dreams.  There's even a yoga mat giveaway contest taking place through January 5, 2013.  For more details, view this past post.

Regarding last year's guiding mantra (no regrets), I am carrying it forward with me in 2013 as well.  Yup, I have tapped into this mantra frequently enough, it has become a standard part of my decision-making process--yet another benefit...

Joy and peace!  T.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Art Journaling: In 2013, I Will...

In 2013, I Will...=Art Journal Joy!

Wanted to share a fun art journaling activity I engaged in last evening.  After collaging, I grabbed a Sharpie pen and wrote at the top of the page: "In 2013, I Will..."  Here's what I wrote:
  • Grow;
  • Invite challenge;
  • Celebrate myself;
  • Use my gifts;
  • In all matters, trust my Wise Self;
  • Exude mindful graciousness;
  • Shine brightly;
  • Embody classic style with modern flair;
  • Have fun;
  • Sparkle from within;
  • Make meaningful memories;
  • Seek out + create adventures;
  • Write to inspire;
  • Make a difference;
  • Live without regret;
  • Shed useless actions;
  • Ascend life's hills;
  • Welcome change;
  • Go where I'm intuitively led;
  • Reflect;
  • Dream freely;
  • Honor my need for white space;
  • Be proud of being different;
  • Use my voice without hesitation;
  • Do my right work;
  • Do at least one yoga pose daily;
  • Tap into my breath often; and...
  • On a blank page, pen in hand, author a great year!
What will you to commit to in 2013?  Would love to hear about it!

Joy and peace. T.

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Simple Stillness


There's a form of simple stillness in the air, this morning, that is sheer bliss.  Holiday celebrations with family began at my house on Christmas Eve and continued on throughout Christmas Day. As glorious as it has been these past few days, it is oh-so-comfy/cozy, right now, sitting here--in the early morning hours--mocha peppermint java in hand, looking out as the wind whips (pre-snowfall) as I write in silence.

I had a similar experience on Christmas Eve morning.  Awoke early.  Unrolled the yoga mat in my home office, and enjoyed a half-hour's practice--a very chill, sacred time of stillness. Not a creature was stirring, that morning, but me...

Moments such as these are both precious and vital.  They refuel me--allow me to gain perspective--enable me to give more fully to those I love.

Yes, even mere moments of stillness are sometimes difficult to carve out.  The more I realize the benefits from them, though, the better I seem to be at dedicating time to do so.

Wishing you the joy of simple stillness, today, amidst an incredibly busy time of year.  Joy & peace!  T.




Monday, December 24, 2012

Season's Greetings!

Indiana University Auditorium--taken December 2010

The Christmas celebrations with my family began at my home yesterday, and will carry on through today.  Wishing you the warmest, brightest and most joyous holiday season yet!

Love & peace, T.


Memory Lane=Holiday Cheer


December 24, 1990

Traveling down memory lane--it's an essential joy I cherish. The pic above was taken by Mark on Christmas Eve, 1990.  Every time I see it, I smile and fondly remember...

We were on our way out to dinner at a nearby state park lodge.  Our Christmas Eve ritual was to load everyone into the van in order to head to our dinner destination.  Every year, never fail, Mark would excuse himself to run back into the house to retrieve some "forgotten" item.  In actuality, there was a plan: he'd use that time to pull the presents out, display them under the tree, drink the milk and nibble the cookies left for Santa--all before heading back out to join us.  That particular year, I remember there was snow on the ground.  As we drove into the park for our Christmas Eve feast, two deer ran through the snow--only a few feet before us.  Holiday lights shining in the trees behind them, the boys  proclaiming them (each in his own exuberant way) to be "Santa's reindeer;" it was absolutely precious...as are so many holiday memories I hold near and dear.

What I have come to understand is that being fully present does not mean I can't fondly recall the past or excitedly plan for the future.  Just like the present, the past and future are also vital to my happiness.  It is the practice of mindfulness--while visiting past, present or future--that transforms wherever I choose to go into the gift I give myself.

Wishing you the cheer of the past, the sacredness of the present and comfort in the future!  Joy & peace, T.



Sunday, December 23, 2012

A Woman's Celebration of Self


Tickled Pink Woman=A Celebration of Self!

It is official.  A change has been made...

Those who listen to the Tickled Pink Woman podcast may have recently noticed my description of this blog (Tickled Pink Woman) has changed somewhat.  What I'd always described as: "celebrating all things Zen, elegant and feminine" is now: "a celebration of self."  No doubt, I will still continue to showcase issues Zen, elegant and feminine on this blog.  That will not change!

Yet, when I truly assess what this blog is striving to do...what it has done...  It has been designed to encourage women to celebrate themselves in all of their innate, remarkably unique, precious glory.  I envision the Tickled Pink Woman blog to be the place where self-celebration serves as the foundation which enables us to live more authentically, mindfully, creatively, gracefully and joyously--hence, the changes you see above (formalizing the title of the blog to "Tickled Pink Woman" and adding the descriptor "A Celebration of Self").

Please share with me your thoughts about the self-celebration concept as it relates to this blog.  I believe self-celebration truly does capture what this blog is (and has been) all about.  Your inspirations and feedback are so very welcome here!

Joy & peace!  T.


Saturday, December 22, 2012

Cornflake Macaroons: A Recipe for Joy

Mimi's cornflake macaroons=a recipe for joy!

In anticipation of our family’s holiday festivities next week, I’ve found myself recently poring over a collection of holiday recipes we have accumulated throughout the years.  There is one that is so near and dear to me--I simply had to share it. 

A number of years ago, while visiting my Mimi (maternal grandmother), I requested a copy of her recipe for cornflake macaroons.  Subsequently, she mailed it to me--handwritten, on a lovely holiday recipe card (see photo above).  On the back of the card, she even penned a precious, heartfelt note, which closes: "I hope you have a wonderful Xmas and much happiness in the New Year.  I love all of you. Mimi."


The back of the recipe card contains a lovely, hand-written note!

This simple little recipe card has brought me immeasurable joy--year after year--each holiday season.  In a sense, it brings my Mimi back to me in a very treasured way--every time I read it.    

What is your recipe for joy? Perhaps, it is recollecting a cherished holiday memory. Maybe it is sacred time spent with loved ones. It could be a time-honored tradition carried out each year.

Please share as I would adore hearing it!  Of course, I couldn't close this post without sharing my Mimi's yummy recipe for cornflake macaroons (shown below).  Hope you enjoy!

Joy & peace, T.

Cornflake Macaroons

2 egg whites beaten stiff
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups cornflakes
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1 cup coconut
1 tsp. (pure) vanilla

Add sugar to beaten egg whites, and beat well.  Add vanilla, cornflakes, nuts and coconut.

Drop from Tbsp. onto foil-lined pan.  Bake for about 10 minutes at 325 degrees.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Winter Solstice = Reflect + Shine

Reflect + shine brightly on this super-short day!

Happy Winter Solstice and welcome to wintertime in the Northern Hemisphere!  Brrr! The presence, this blustery morning, of snow flurries, ice, and chilled temps indicate our dear Winter has decidedly arrived here in northwest Ohio.

The Winter Solstice is (depending on how you look at it) either the shortest day or longest night of the year.  Not to fret, though!  Episode #6 of the Tickled Pink Woman podcast shares my thoughts on how to figuratively shine brightly--despite fewer daytime hours (the show notes are found here). 

For a bit of added warmth, think back six months ago--to the Summer Solstice.  The post dedicated to that toastier season is available here.  

Last evening, I engaged in an on-line Winter Solstice reflection activity.  Lit scads of scented candles. Poured myself some chilled wine. Marked it as “my” time (smile). Today, I am still feeling the glow...

A few minutes prior to last eve's reflection activity...

In the process of establishing a guiding mantra and visualizing my dreams for 2013, I’ve dedicated a good deal of time, in the last month, to personal reflection.  Truly, it's been a most worthy endeavor! Details on how you can do the same are found in this past post.

Joy and peace to you, this Winter Solstice.  Reflect and shine brightly!  T.


Thursday, December 20, 2012

Choosing Creative Authenticity


Black & White & Red All Over... Yes, there is plenty of black and white.  The red, perhaps, is more like “a subtle infusion” versus “all over.”  The photo above features what I wore to work, yesterday.

Not so long ago, I would never have dared to wear red tights (much less stiletto short boots and RED lipstick) into the office for fear I might be perceived as "unprofessional." Now, I embrace each day’s opportunity to authentically showcase my creative side through my dress (See past related posts here, here and here). 


True love and celebration of self requires us to let our authentic selves shine—despite what others might think.  I came across a fabulous tweet on Twitter, yesterday.  It’s so very much in line with this healthy way of thinking. Hope it inspires you as much as it did me:  “It’s not your job to like me...it’s MINE!  --Byron Katie.” 

Joy, grace and peace!!!  T.

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Art Journaling: Glitter-embellished Dreams...

This month's realized dreams get the glitter treatment!

Late last month, Sharpie pen in hand, I sketched my dreams onto a recently-created, seasonally-themed art journal collage--making visible, my heart's desires for the month of December.  For added details, see this past post.

Generally, I’ll use a Sharpie or colored markers to draw a shape of some sort around each displayed dream once it has been realized. This month, however, I’m using glitter glue as a means of marking my dream achievements (as shown in the photo above).  Gives it a bit of a festive feel, yes?

I only began using glitter glue for art journaling this past year.  Mine is purchased at the dollar store, so it’s a minimal investment—and, I can get as “free” with this fab stuff as I wish (smile). 

Have you used glitter glue in your art journal?  If so, I would love to hear more about it! 

Joy and peace!  T.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Best Face Forward...

Read why I consider wearing sunglasses a skincare must!

I'm looking forward to indulging in a facial at a local spa, tonight.  It's been a personal goal to treat myself to a quarterly facial this year.  After this evening, I'm happy to report that I'll have achieved my planned 2012 outcome (smile).

Having turned fifty this past spring, I realize--now more than ever--how important it is to care for my skin.  Added ways I do this include:
  • Using sunscreen every day (My daily moisturizer and lip gloss both contain sunscreen!);
  • Applying a daytime moisturizer;
  • Wearing night cream (It's not the heavy stuff I remember from long ago; now, it's light and transparent!);
  • Donning eye cream;
  • Sporting UV sunglasses when outside (Last year, a friend's mother died from melanoma (skin cancer) of the retina. As a result, I now wear my shades even when it's cloudy outdoors.);
  • Washing with a gentle facial cleanser each morning and evening;
  • Removing ALL make-up before bedtime;
  • Exercising regularly (Gives me a healthier glow--truly, it does!);
  • Drinking plenty of water each day (I drink 64 ounces of filtered water a day.);
  • Taking a multivitamin each morning;
  • Eating fresh fruits and veggies daily; and
  • Getting plenty of shut-eye (I am not as good at this as I'd like, but I've made marked progress in the past year.)
What about you?  Does your skincare routine include added elements?  Please share as I'd love to hear about it!



Joy and peace,  T.

Monday, December 17, 2012

The Gift of Two Free Evenings...

Carving out time to art journal=a gift I give myself!

While participating in a managerial staff meeting, late last week, I learned tonight's 7 p.m. work-related meeting had been canceled.  Woooooo hoooooo!!!  Did I share with you my extreme excitement about this? Trust me, it's there (smile).

Akin to a gift, this scrumptious opportunity has presented itself to me: a free evening.  Originally, my plan had been to use it to attend a second yoga class (I already had yoga sketched in for Thursday night).

Then, I received word of a free opportunity, taking place on Thursday evening, that peaked my interest.  This resulted in what seems like a worthy self-compromise to me: I can still attend a relaxing yoga class on Monday night, and also participate in Thursday evening's virtual Winter Solstice-themed gathering.  Yes!

Below, I have shared a bit about the Thursday evening event I plan on attending (As much as I wish I could say I was going to be at the on-site event at a California winery--I'm live-streaming.). The information was taken from author Christine Arylo's Love Letter for Your Heart & Soul newsletter:

"This coming week is the Winter Solstice - it is a time for slowing down and listening deeply to your heart and soul, to nature, to spirit.

As my gift to you this season I invite you to slow down, take a pause and really reflect on who you've become this year, what is really important to you, and let that sink into your cells.

This Thursday, you can receive a free ticket to my monthly Wine and Divine series - in person this month at a winery in Oakland or live streamed into your home. I'll be sharing with you a powerful ritual I've used for 7 years to really connect with what matters most to me at the end of a year."

Sounds yummy, doesn't it?  I am going to chill and open one of the better bottles of wines I've got on hand, light some seasonally-scented candles, open my growth journal and totally immerse myself in this reflective activity.  To learn more about this free event, click here.  

One never knows when or where a gift might present itself...  Looks like I've received a couple, already, this week, and it's only Monday!

Joy, peace and happy Monday,  T.

Sunday, December 16, 2012

No Regrets & Self-authored: Making Dreams Real...

The page is blank. 
The pen is in your hand.
This chapter (in life) is yours to author…
Please join me in writing the best year yet!

I'm excited to announce the release of my first MP3 and accompanying e-workbook (in PDF format) entitled, "No Regrets & Self-authored: Making Dreams Real... The Tickled Pink Woman Way."  This fabulous combo is akin to a mini retreat!  It includes several reflection and visioning activities as well as an activity dedicated to honoring your creativity...and, of course, my tips on taking action toward making your dreams real.

Those who purchase the No Regrets & Self-authored: Making Dreams Real... The Tickled Pink Woman Way MP3 and companion e-workbook--December 16, 2012 through January 5, 2013--will be entered for a random drawing for a yoga mat (courtesy of General Electric's HealthyShare initiative).  One winner will be selected and notified on January 6, 2013.  

No Regrets & Self-authored: Making Dreams Real... The Tickled Pink Woman Way is available for $3.99 in my Etsy Shop.  To check it out, click here.  

Joy and peace!  T.



Tickled Pink Woman Podcast: Episode #7





Access at iTunes Podcasts: Subscribe to Tickled Pink Woman 

Or via Libsyn RSS:  http://traffic.libsyn.com/tickledpinkwoman/Episode_7.m4a


Tickled Pink Woman Podcast Show Notes:
Sunday, December 16, 2012

Hello and welcome to Episode 7 of the Tickled Pink Woman podcast, a woman’s celebration of self.  The focus of today’s podcast: Identifying a guiding mantra and dreams for 2013…

Musings on last year’s guiding mantra: “No regrets.”

Why I found a guiding mantra to be so very useful:
·      It forced me to stop and mindfully consider actions more so than ever before.
·      It became a “habit.”
·      It worked well for me.

A bit on my process to identify a mantra for the coming year…

Discussion about the finalists and announcement on my selection for 2013…

1.             Best foot forward;
2.             Personal best;
3.             Mindfully graceful;
4.             Action is eloquence;
5.             Savor the journey
6.             Act as if;
7.             Focus. Stretch. Balance.

My selected 2013 guiding mantra:  Self-authored!

Muse regarding my 2013 selection…

My 2013 Dreams (to date)

·      Extended read of The Artist’s Way (idea borrowed from blogger Christine of Yoga Twist on Life)
·      Launch Tickled Pink Woman e-course
·      Write and publish Tickled Pink Woman creativity e-book
·      Publish quarterly MP3s
·      Hire a coach or mentor
·      Engage in another biz e-course
·      Conduct at least 4 Tickled Pink Woman workshops locally
·      Blog daily
·      Visit Patrick (youngest son, attending graduate school) in Boston
·      Tour Edith Wharton’s home
·      Write Tickled Pink Woman book
·      Publish monthly YouTube videos for the blog and podcast
·      Conduct volunteer art journaling workshop for tweens
·      Complete my 10th Toastmasters speech
·      Reestablish my meditation practice
·      Conduct my first interview on podcast

Pinking Shears: Ways to take today’s concepts away and tailor them for your needs! 

Check out my MP3 and accompanying e-workbook (in PDF format) entitled, “Self-authored: Making Your Dreams Real the Tickled Pink Woman Way.” It’s a $3.99 investment that sets forth my tips for establishing a guiding mantra and making dreams real.  It contains various reflection and visioning activities. And, it’s illustrated with some of my own artwork I created in this past year (watercolor, acrylic, collage, mixed media and photography). 

If you purchase Self-authored: Making Your Dreams Real the Tickled Pink Woman Way between December 16, 2012 and January 5, 2013, you will be automatically entered for a random drawing for a yoga mat (courtesy of General Electric’s HealthyShare initiative.  One winner will be randomly selected!  

Self-authored: Making Your Dreams Real the Tickled Pink Woman Way is available in my Etsy Shop (http://www.etsy.com/shop/TickledPinkWoman).

Rosy Resources:

My past blog post entitled: “Vowing to Live a Life without Regrets,” dated March 30, 2012

My past blog post entitled: Finding that Special Mantra,” dated November 10, 2012

My past blog post entitled: Final Considerations: 2013 Mantra,” dated November 23, 2012

Tickled Pink Woman Promo: If you enjoyed today’s podcast, I hope you will join me on my blog it’s a great source for added inspiration and it is where today’s show notes will be housed: tickledpinkwoman.blogspot.com.  Connect with me on Twitter (@TickledPinkTina) and Like Tickled Pink Woman on Facebook.  Check out my book, Eternal Presents: Accepting and Using the Precious, Intangible Gifts Others Give Us on Amazon and Etsy

I’d love to hear your thoughts about the blog and podcasts.  Email me at tinatickledpink@gmail.com or snail mail me: Tina Bradley, Post Office Box 289, Bowling Green, OH  43402.

Thank you for joining me on today’s episode of the Tickled Pink Woman podcast. Hope you’ll join me this week on the blog! Joy & peace!

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Today, I Choose Comfort and Healing


Decided to forego the cold temps and rain this morning... Instead of venturing out for our standing, downtown breakfast date, Mark headed out to get donuts.  No rain or cold for me this morning; today, I choose comfort.

Another thing I've decided not to do today: listen to, read or watch any of the news reports arising in the wake of yesterday's sad, horrendous school tragedies in Connecticut and China.  Watching these sad events play out again and again only serve to upset me incredibly.  Rather, I choose to hold healing thoughts, as well as carry out aligned actions--much better responses for me than anger, fear and melancholy.

Deservedly, comfort and healing are in order for us all today.  How can you infuse both into your world? A still mind? Hot tea in front of the fireplace? Creating something of beauty? Spending quality time with loved ones? Calling a dear friend?

Sending thoughts of joy, peace, comfort and healing to you.  T.

Friday, December 14, 2012

Art Journal Activity: A Few of My Favorite Things...



Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens...these are a few of my favorite things...”  I don’t know if this is a holiday tune per se, but it does seem to get a lot of airplay this time of year. 

Looking for a fun art journaling or journaling activity?  Try building a list of your favorite things.  Listed below, are a few of my favorite things:

Color:  to wear=black; to view=a soft, petal pink


Cake: red velvet

Actress: Audrey Hepburn

Flower: tulips (Truly, I love all flowers... However, there’s nothing more exciting than seeing the first signs of bloom appearing each spring!)

Season:  Spring--maybe, Summer--make that Fall—I really cannot decide! As you can see, winter didn’t make the list (smile).

Holiday: Halloween (Yes, I know...)

Comfort activity: read and/or write in bed

Style icon:  This varies quite often, but right now, it's Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

Book:  Too many to choose.  Same with "fave author." For me, it's only non-fiction, though.

Wine: dry rose’

Scent: lavender

Guilty pleasure:  watching reruns of Ghost Whisperer (Please, don't laugh!)

Day of the week:  Friday (oh, yeah...)

Childhood holiday gift: Suzy Homemaker vanity (complete with three-way mirrors!)

Vacation destination: any place that's quaint and has mountains (or foothills)

Snack food:  white cheddar rice cakes 

Yoga pose: tree

Feel good: snagging an incredible find at a thrift, vintage or consignment shop

Candy: dark chocolate Hershey Kisses

The possibilities for this project are endless.  Play + have fun!  Check out this past post for suggestions on how to turn this into an art journaling activity.

Joy and peace!  T.