Trusting in the Creative Process

I snapped this photo at my brother’s recent retirement party after hearing my daughter call to me: “Mom, Mom! Look, he’s resting his hand on mine.” Elya giggled. The photo op proved irresistible. Trust. What a perfect picture of this abstract concept. When creativity does not flow readily, I need to rest my hand in the …

Fame

What an interesting human-derived concept fame is. People strive their entire lives to capture this illusion of significance only to have fame remain upon the earth after they have perished.

Purposes of Non-Productivity

When did production become the touchstone of our worth? The concept of “being” as opposed to “doing” fascinates, and yet frustrates, me. As a person of faith, I believe that Jesus’s sacrifice for me enables acceptance apart from my performance. I also get the concept of moving beyond sitting back and doing nothing to actively …

The Birth of a Painting

My daughter's artistic talent never ceases to amaze me. Elya presents the progression of her acrylic painting with the words of E. E. Cummings as an accompaniment. Here's a couple of photos, but you really must see the entire process to appreciate the piece. READ MORE...

The Infilling

I am captivated by the concept that heavenly treasure can reside in earthen vessels, imperfect people filled with the Spirit of God: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; …

Recipes by Auntie Lala: Chicken Veggie Eggrolls

My daughter, Elya, is the quintessential creative eclectic. Along with arts and crafts of all kinds, she loves to cook. Recently her boyfriend, Chad, bought her a "Queen of the Kitchen" apron while on a trip to Italy. this post features her first of many recipes I've decided to post on my creativity website with …

Cayucos Antique Street Fair Finds

One of my favorite creative living activities is perusing antique stores and street fairs. So on a recent visit to the picturesque coastal town of Cayucos, I was thrilled to discover the antique street fair that weekend. This coastal town sports a western motif… and so I felt as if I’d journeyed back in time …

Concetta’s Kitchen

Concetta is our Italian grandmother. We are cousins. We like to cook, eat, and talk about food. Between our visits, we commune in Concetta’s Kitchen…or in available wine bars in quaint coastal towns. READ THE ENTIRE POST...

Heroes are Born

Today, I am thankful for the men and women who have served, or are serving, our country in the armed forces. Courageous people like my father-in-law, Julio Luna, who is one of the remaining WWII veterans. This past weekend, I had the privilege of listening to him tell about the time his ship was torpedoed …