Nymphs, Westerstraat Market, Amsterdam.
Today I am indoors with the shades drawn against the blazing heat, listening to Amy Seeley's "I've Got Ideas," from her Eight Belles CD. I'm working on making my creative ideas real. I'm slowly - gently - nudging open a couple of intriguing new doors (not kicking them down, as my restless nature once may have preferred).
The important thing to remember is that stretching one's limits; pushing past boundaries - real or imagined - is a process; effort, patience and time must meld for fruition. That means persistence; not letting others' negative thinking discourage plans-in-motion. What about you? What ideas are propelling you forward through these heat-filled summer days and nights?
Summer giveaway winner
Stacy Hurt is my latest summer giveaway winner. Congrats to Stacy, who wins a Paris flea market surprise. And thanks to all who left such inspiring comments! I'll host another giveaway in September.
Ahhh, i'm struggling with that at the moment! WOrking on my portfolio and trying to persevere and push boundaries yet not be weighed down by negativity!! ARGHHH!
Slowly SLowly, i'm learning to walk away when i feel that feeling coming on! Have a break and come back with a renewed mind!
THANK YOU for your constant inspiration!
Leonie
Posted by: Leonie | 14 August 2009 at 09:37
Here I am, catching up. And then I come to this one with such a beautiful image and powerful words. I'm on the bring of something, too. And I don't know what -- but it's there! And knowing you're going on your journey, too, well -- that inspires me!
Posted by: jeanie | 13 August 2009 at 23:06
Why did this make me cry a bit? That photo is lovely.
I know about rushing and pushing. I'm trying to go slowly, and sometimes I feel it's too slow... There's definitely a hint in the air for breaking out, exploring. I wish you the best in those endeavors.
As for me, I think painting painting painting is the path...
Posted by: Chris | 12 August 2009 at 19:29
I'm very excited! I can hardly stand it! Thank you so much & I promise to post photos as soon as I can!
Posted by: Stacy | 11 August 2009 at 23:25
Right there with you, Mom. I'd have to say planning an exciting journey is propelling me forward!
Posted by: Jordapeach | 11 August 2009 at 22:33
I'm convinced that pacing is the secret of life. It's difficult not to be a bull in a china shop when you've got a great idea.
Beautiful photo; I must have been just around the corner but missed these beauties. Thanks for bringing them here.
Posted by: dutchbaby | 11 August 2009 at 16:46
Just loving what i read Tara ! persistence and not letting others discourage yourself...oh yes, this should be one the basic rules when one has a project.
as you know, here summer is hot and slow, although it's raining today and i'm listening to some...Russian choir
talking about projects, i've just started a new activity which needs persistence! - pop over to my other blog http://mariageausoleil.blogspot.com, when you have a minute !-
:-)
Posted by: my castle in spain | 11 August 2009 at 13:53
Beautifully said.
It has cooled down a bit here in Amsterdam, but still rather humid. As you can imagine, I'm loving the heat, the sunshine, and the blue skies.
px
Posted by: pia | 11 August 2009 at 09:54
Not kicking down doors? Geez I find it hard not to as well!
Posted by: simon | 11 August 2009 at 05:12
Painting... I started taking art lessons.
I'll ck out the CD, for when I paint I get to listen to the most enjoyable music to inspire me!
Posted by: MiddleAgedWomanBlogging | 11 August 2009 at 03:30
i like that nudging process. it takes patience, but im all for it. ; ) your photo is so lovely.
xo
congrats to Stacy.
Posted by: Christina | 11 August 2009 at 02:22
Sounds like you are in one groovy place Miss Tara.
I'm where I want to be for the moment, planning trips, trying new recipes, getting fresh air, sleeping as much as allowed, and snapping pics.
A happy place to be!
Thanks for the music recommendation. I trust your good taste, I'll go buy this. xoxo
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | 11 August 2009 at 02:09
oh, you know this speaks to me and is exactly what i need at this moment. must get that music. immediately. going to iTunes now...
xox,
/j
Posted by: julochka | 10 August 2009 at 21:55
I know what you mean. I'm learning to ease into things and get used to new surroundings and situations, whereas in the past I'd be a little bulldozer ;)
Congratulations, Stacy!
Posted by: Amanda Nicole | 10 August 2009 at 21:01
It sounds like you are in a similar place to what I have been thinking lately. Pushing the boundaries without letting negative thoughts intrude. I was just writing about this earlier today and will post my thought sometime this week. Where I move forward with these thoughts is giving myself more challenges, like signing up for the workshop next April in Santa Fe. Finishing projects and returning to writing in the winter will be another challenge, which I am indeed looking forward to. Just traveling in France in September will also be an education and push to open up new avenues of life and observations. I am so excited to grow, learn, and move forward.
Posted by: Marilyn | 10 August 2009 at 20:27
Oh! You'll have to share how to go from kicking to nudging. I am still a kicker.
Passion for new media and publishing my first book propel me right now.
And I have some secret Mondo Beyondo wishes I think I am slowly growing closer to owning up to...
Maybe I'm nudging toward those while I kick down doors toward the others.
Love Amy Seeley. Good stuff.
Posted by: Rebecca Self | 10 August 2009 at 18:33