September is interNational Sewing Month! An ideal time to sew up back to school items like lunch bags, colorful fabric totes or for the cooler days ahead, a cozy throw or quilt. Holidays are right around the corner so sewing projects abound! Fun Halloween costumes, home decor harvest items or gifts for Kwanza, Christmas or Hanukkah.

With a new home pillows are my biggest sewing project this month. I love pillows and making them, my favorite style has been the flower pillow but for this Victorian home I am sewing up large floral and rich elegant velvet pillows. At present the fabric is just cut and wrapped around the forms but with a big event next weekend I am on a deadline to finish them up later this week.

The good thing about deadlines is they spur you on to finish projects that might drag on. Now that I have made a space for my sewing machine it is making my creative life much easier. My new studio at the back of this beautiful house will be under renovation for a while yet.

Looking forward to being completely settled in with all renovations finished in about three months. Here is to sewing projects, patterns and fabric stashes! Happy Sewing Month!

We all remember where we were on September 11, when our world, our lives changed forever. I remember coming home from a trip to Phoenix early that morning and my daughter's frantic call to me to make sure I was home safely. Our group did eventually all make it home safely. The New York bound members some lost those very close to them, one member her husband a firefighter who would have been a first responder had come with her on the trip as a vacation.

How we live is what we can offer in remembrance, we are a gift to and of this world, this life. To offer our best to live in a way that is compassionate, loving and joyful. To make the world a better place happens in the everyday living, the smallest of actions, of connections makes a difference, impacts lives and the circle grows wider and wider.

Live with love for I have always believed "Life is simply a Love story."

I have always believed Life is simply a love story, it is through loving, caring and sharing we connect with the world. It gives life meaning, value amd richness. This photo from the Sculpture Garden at Kingsbrae Gardens in St. Andrews speaks of love so simple and yet so expressive. We just see love, feel it and know it captured by the shape and placement of four rocks. How wonderful is that!

In visiitng the gardens over many summers from the beginning has been a true gift. The beautiful garden arbor was quite bare for the first few years but now is glorious! To wander through it was lovely this year.

Kingsbrae Gardens has evolved, grown with the years and the seasons, creating a space with all of nature's bounty, with woodland trails, formal gardens, water features, children's fantasy hideaways, animals, whimsical and striking sculpture all set high on a hill with the ocean breeze constant in the air! A place filled with creative inspiration! A joy! Happy weekend everyone!

(photo courtesy of www.MAGGbrucedesigns)

Glenda Bruce is one of the Graduates of the NB College of Craft and Design. I attended the opening of the Interdisciplinary Show by the Graduate Studies Class "Cross Processed" on the weekend. The pieces in the gallery were both stunning and evocative. This piece above is representative of the artistry showcase at the College.

Glenda based this earlier gorgeous felted piece on the Slavic folklore character Baba Yaga. Baba Yaga has been portrayed as both a violent antagonist and a purveyor of wisdom. 

Another very young and talented fiber artist www.alexandrakeely.com created a wall of exquisite felted scarves, whimsical sea inspired lengths of luscious color and movement.

Such artistic vision and technique! I was inspired! I hope this will begin your week with inspiration too! Follow the creative joy!

Spring is here in NB, Canada. The trees are a fresh green and spring flowers pop with color everywhere. I walk everyday and find both inspiration and mindfulness in nature and the history of this lovely city.

The old train bridge over the river has been converted into a walking bridge connecting to trails along the water on both sides. I walked it the other day and took some photos from the bridge. This summer I am so very grateful to be moving to a beautiful heritage home along the river where I can walk the bridge every day.

This is my town, my home where my heart resides. Enjoy!

Summertime, strawberry time and the living is easy! Admittedly I am spending much of my time indoors preparing for the CHA (Craft & Hobby) Trade Show. I do walk everyday and am exploring my neighborhood. Each season brings a whole new landscape to experience. What a lovely street of vintage homes and beautiful gardens.

Up the street is a charming place with beautiful plants that frame the front. Golf clubs are a whimsical addition to the shutters. The front door is so welcoming with a striking large arrangement of a watering can wreath. Just the perfect touch to a place that reminds me of a fairy tale cottage. I am thinking something similar on my deck's twig divider would be very striking. Inspiration is everywhere! Follow your JOY always! Debra

I am living downtown and love it. There is an energy in this small city of tree lined streets, stately homes, interesting shops, art galleries and home to the craft college.

On my way home from the local market two cute little girls had created some wonderful sidewalk art. It began with a chalk sign that read "I love art". There is something so timeless and treasured about the easy joy of sunshine, sidewalks and colorful chalk. Their message, their joy was bold and bright, their enthusiasm lit the street and their "gallery" was a delight for everyone walking by!

They were pleased I was taking photos. Their enthusiasm and confidence, the sheer joy of their creating without any inner critic or comparison was delightful! When do we lose that freedom, when do we stop coloring, drawing, creating for the sheer joy of expressing our own unique vision and just doing it. It is summer filled with sunshine days and streets and streets of empty sidewalks. How about just grabbing some chalk and heading outside to make art! Follow the creative joy! Debra, CEO!

Sometimes when we are the busiest, deadlines, commitments and overwhelm hits, this is the ideal time to take a break, to recharge, refuel. Filling up the mind and body with a new energy. Often we say "I don't have time" but there is always time. Will an hour taken playing, resting, relaxing, connecting make a difference? Yes it will, you will go back to your commitments with a renewed energy probably accomplishing even more faster.

So take some time for yourself. Instead of frustration just know the universe is sending you a message to stop and breathe or go fly a kite. For in these spaces when the mind is free, happy, relaxed the greatest ideas are born! Do something you love to do! Happy weekend! Debra, CEO!

January is a big month in the Craft, Sewing and Gift industries with several trade shows happening. Many designer and artist friends are busy getting ready for the Atlanta Gift Show next week and the end of the month is the CHA (Craft & Hobby Association) show in Los Angeles. Like everyone I have been busy finishing up designs for the show, for one of my client's portfolio.

Terri O who is the national spokesperson for CHA has a new TV show with PBS beginning tomorrow, Super Simple with Terri O! Terri is a bubbly sweet and very talented personality. I is always a treat to catch up with her at the shows. Usually she is wearing something she has created using paint and stencil techniques. Her lifestyle ideas are fun and easy and she has a great monthly newsletter.

The Sizzix Blog Hop group which consists of sixty designers and artists have decided to continue as a group. We had a great time working together so we will be shortly announcing our new group effort with monthly challenges.

Kathy Petersen is one of the most inspiring people in the industry and she is off on a speaking tour this year. Kathy and Barb's blog Crafting for Health shares personal and touching stories of how crafting has benefited people's lives. Kathy will be talking about creativity. She is a very busy woman but always takes the time each day to comment on my personal quote for the day.

2011 has begun, there is promise in the air. Dreams are fulfilled by the intentions and actions of each day. Create the life you desire, be inspired! I am reading Eat Pray Love and Happiness Project. I have chosen Love, Joy and Gratitude as my three words for 2011. To a new year, the adventure begins! Follow the Joy! Debra, CEO!

A New Year begins tomorrow. I look at the beautiful new journal my daughter gave me for Christmas, fresh pages ready for this next year of my life. New calendars, a new year to begin filling in. Resolutions, intentions, we are drawn to looking at our life on this last day of the old year and make promises to ourselves to live next year better.

To have wants and desires, goals and dreams is part of our nature, to strive and grow. We are on a journey in life, one of constant movement and change. Some changes we hardly notice, some shake our whole world but change remains constant like the waves. Through it all we have the choice in how we navigate our journey through whatever comes.

This I believe that life is simply a love story, the core of our being continues because of love. Who we love and how we love defines us. When we love deep, true and strong we anchor our life. It allows us to soar with our dreams knowing we matter in this life. To love your life allows you to do your best work, that work you are here to do. We all make a difference, our energy fills the air around us and travels far. It is a powerful force. As dear friend, the amazing Ms. Margot Potter says" Love trumps everything!"

This I believe that we do not walk alone, that Joy is always with us. With love, faith, compassion, kindness and gratitude we share our best selves with the world each day. We are enough just as we are, we are a gift in this life.

Create and be creative, inspire and be inspired, love and be loved. Share your gifts, talents, your essence with the world. Lead your best life in this new year and know you are perfect just as you are. To a new year, welcome!

To the past year of my life thank you for the love that has filled each day, to the special relationship that has brought me great joy. To my daughters who are the light of my life and have taught me more about life than they will ever know. To dear family and friends who are a constant reminder of the abundance of goodness, joy, love and laughter in this life!

Most importantly take the time to say I love you, to tell those in your life how special they are. These moments you choose will be remembered forever.

To all of you who take the time to visit each day, a heart felt thank you! Fran & Freda appreciate their loyal followers on Fowl Friday! ( I had to bribe them for today!) May this new year be filled with a luscious life for all! Remember to Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

Pantone has announced their color pick for 2011, it is brilliant pink!!! My favorite color!!! Well if you visiting my site then I guess I am stating the obvious.  Joan Beiriger has a great article on her Art Licensing blog about the choice  "Pantone Announces their 2011 Color of the Year."

"Courageous, confident, vital!" I love pink because it is an energetic, sexy color which brightens up everything from cheeks to purses giving a rosy attractive glow. I have two daughters and they were infused in pink as babies! I wore pink to my graduation and pink at my Mom's wedding. When at the Luther Burbank Gardens in Santa Rosa I took some photos of the beautiful pink roses there. They were saucy, confident and reigned over the the other roses in all their glory!!!

Sitting on a bench in warm sunshine surrounded by a beautiful garden is a place where spirit dwells. There is a reverence found among the roses, the greenery, the fountain dancing to the melody of the day. The camera captures the moments of this space, the delicate veins, the purity of the shaded hues within each flower, unique, extraordinary in its own way.

We are like each rose, each flower found in the garden gifted with a beauty that is defined by an inner light, hues colored by the holiness of our inner lives. Joy, sorrow, laughter & tears are all expressions of the soul's story found within. So walk among the gardens of life, linger and see what lies within, what lies within thee. Debra, CEO!

inspiration [??nsp??re???n] n

1. stimulation or arousal of the mind, feelings, etc., to special or unusual activity or creativity

2. the state or quality of being so stimulated or aroused

3. someone or something that causes this state

4. an idea or action resulting from such a state

 

Where do you find inspiration? Why do we need inspiration? To be inspired is to feel really alive, to see something which excites the senses and then want to create from the feeling. I vividly remember being in downtown Houston several years ago when they shot fireworks off the tops of the buildings, they cascaded down reflected in all the glass, it was amazing the explosion of vibrant color. A year later there was a gorgeous quilt inspired by the fireworks hanging at the Quilt Market tradeshow in Houston. The quilter had stood beside me that evening and remarked "this will be my next quilt, Fireworks!"

 

Nature is always a source of inspiration, I had been wanting to add my writing to beautiful photographs of my own. Visiting the lovely Luther Burbank Gardens in California with a friend who leant me her great camera I was able to take some photos of the beauty found there. Each one touched me and the words easily came to go with the photo. Follow the Joy! Debra, CEO!

 

 

 

I came home from a trip away right into a large local craft show with hundreds of talented artists and crafters. It was my first time at this local show so it was fresh and exciting for me plus I got to hang out all weekend with creative people and one of my best friends, artist Carole Forbes stayed with me. I was immersed in creative enthusiasm, it was wonderful!

At the show I met a talented young jewelry designer and her Mom. Her business "Heart & Soul by LeGoff" They also concocted the cutest tutus which displayed on the wall like a frothy fairytale. THeir exuberant energy was a delight and the tutus disappeared like magic!

A young jewelry designer from Moncton, Christine Poirier, "Tierra" had exquisite pendants, bracelets and earrings. Her unique style reflected her warm personality and energy. It was so refreshing to be among the young talent found at the show and watch their interaction with those who attended. Their pride and passion in following their artistry was inspiring and it created a charming atmosphere. For me missing my daughters at home it was a true gift to spend time with these young women. There is a generation of exciting, confident creative women on their way and we are the women who have launched them. The rest they have made all theirs! Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

Last week I had the great pleasure of seeing and meeting Karim Rashid here in Saint John. He is one of the most prolific designers with over 3000 designs in production including the famous Oh chair for Umbra.

He arrived on stage, very tall, dressed in a white suit and pink shoes. He was both inspiring and entertaining with an easy going confident style. The theatre was packed with the enthusiastic audience ranging from students to seniors.

Karim spoke of how good design should be accessible to everyone, items that are inexpensive should be equally aesthetically pleasing. Our homes should be filled with objects that are both beautiful and useful. Our sensibilities are as refined as any "celebrities" and we should decide for ourselves what is beautiful independent of what others endorse.

He spoke of how he approaches design by not living in the world but seeing it with the continual fresh eyes of a "visitor" always questioning. Change is constant and the past is irrelevant in his design world. He made the comment that fashion looks to the past constantly chasing itself in a continual circle.

He answered questions from the audience and stayed around in the lobby following to speak to people expressing a genuine appreciation and sincerity. One of the questions asked of him regarded how he chose his clients to work with. He remarked his office is quite wild so if they are uncomfortable in his office it probably won't work out as a potential client. He also said he made his decisions now if there is a connection with the eyes that is the deciding factor. He is a remarkable talent and amazing human being.

Here he is in the lobby with one of many admiring groups of young people. Thank you Karim for sharing your refreshing vision! Follow the JOY! always Debra, CEO!

I like Mondays! Sunday evenings I like to get organized and do my schedule for the week ahead. I am feeling more and more at home in my new place. Entertained friends on the weekend which was fun. I even provided some excitement by almost setting the oven mitts on fire, one of them has a very cool burn mark design now, a very distressed look!

This week I am getting to design with some great fabrics from the Art of Possibility Studio. The fabrics are dynamic in design with vibrant color. Ketra Oberlander the founder is an artist who is blind. All of the artists she works with are very talented and have a physical disability. The name reflects Ketra's belief in anything is possible when you do what you love and follow the passion. I have had the pleasure of spending time with her at several shows. She is so inspiring and funny, I come away with a feeling everytime that anything is indeed possible!

I have a big project on the go, a new book proposal which at times seems daunting but I have found breaking it down into steps is very helpful. I have to set my own deadlines so this month it is to be finished and off to my publisher. It is a fashion book so the drawing class I just took at the Saint John Arts Centre was very helpful for my sketching. I am also volunteering there and look forward to an interesting Fall!

Wishing a you a great week ahead one that is rewarding, fulfilling and always take time for some creativity & fun! Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

Life has been in major change mode this past summer with moving to a new city and becoming an empty nester after twenty seven years of kids, pets, a house and all that goes with it. I love my new life, wish my girls were right around the corner but it was such a good decision to move and they are both so very happy in their new lives.

With change comes reflection and more time to read. :) I picked up a beautiful book the other day STYLE STATEMENT Live by your own design by Carrie McCarthy & Danielle LaPorte. It is a wonderful workbook, a guide or in their words "a compass for creating a life that reflects what's true to you in every way. From your wisdom to your wardrobe, from your longing to your livingroom--your Style Statement is where your essence meets your expression." There are lovely vignettes of "stylish"  strong personalities and their style philosophy. The photography is sophisticated and gorgeous. The questions posed "I express my reverence for nature, animals and ecology by..." are varied and wide ranging.

I think we all have a very strong sense of our own style but sometimes it does not always come together like we want it in all aspects of our lives. I am finding the book useful in defining those areas and the changes I want to make. I do know everytime I pick up this beautful book it gives me a feeling of a quiet joy, an appreciation of my serene surroundings and all the love which fills my life. Each day dawns with beauty and grace for each one of us to STYLE in our own unique way! Always Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

Deadlines! Much of my work is defined by deadlines, which is a great motivator. They help define and determine my weekly schedule. Giving myself deadlines does not always work as well but with September and many new things on the horizon I have been busily working away on updating and revising my website. Today will be another full day working away behind the virtual scenes. So short & sweet until tomorrow!

Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO! 

One of the most delightful and talented people I am so fortunate to have as a friend is the marvellous Margot Potter. She has a new book out which is getting rave reviews Bead Chic and she has stunning excerpts from the book on her popular blog. I love the "Chaos in Pearls" Necklace. Margot has written several books and whenever I meet up with her at a tradeshow she is always wearing one of her fabulous creations. She inspires me in many ways and one of these days I am going to seriously try some beading. For now I admire at the artistry and beauty of her pieces!

Today another very talented friend Kathy Peterson of Crafting for Health sent me a link posted to my Facebook page. They have posted today my piece I wrote about the Kids Craft Club I organized in my daughter's school. Such fun, this picture says it all!

 Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

Earlier today brought a lovely surprise! I was nominated by the talented artist Jen Goode  for the Kreativ Blogger award. Jen draws the most delightful whimsical penguins! The info on the award comes courtesy of Jen which came from the also very talented artist Tara Reed who nominated Jen!

Apparently the "Kreativ Blogger originated in May 2, 08 in a post by Huldas Verden as noted by Clay Garden author in this April 2009 post: Finally I found that it was started in Norway by a blogger named Huldas Verden." (courtesy Tara Reed) It definitely is a small world one that reminds us how close we are to each other, there are no barriers of distance and language. 

For this lovely award I am to:
1. Thank the person who has given me the award. 
     Thank you Jen Goode, both very sweet & talented artist!
2. Copy the Kreativ Blogger logo and place it on your blog.
     The pretty logo is in my sidebar.
3. Link back to the person who has nominated you for the award.
    1st line of post
4. Name 7 things about yourself that people might find interesting. 
    1. Bunnies, birds & snowmen are my favourite characters to create. (big surprise!)
    2. I eat the same breakfast every single day. (boring I know!)
    3. My studio is either very neat or a creative chaos. (sometimes the door is open)
    4. I choose not to drive, preferring to walk or fly. (I hide my wings well)
    5. I have to work facing a window, sunshine is very inspiring.
    6. I dance around the house almost everyday to very loud music. (the cats scatter everyday too at the same time!)
    7. I love to play Scrabble. (my girls humor me & play with me on my birthday)

5. Nominate 7 other Kreativ Bloggers.
My choices are wonderful warm generous talented artists, designers & most important of all to me, my friends who continually inspire me!
Margot Potter-Amazing & inspiring!
Eileen Hull-Delightfully creative!
Candie Cooper-Charming & very cool design!
Tiffany Windsor-Spreading the love of Crafting!
Brenda Pinnick-A color genius!
Sarah Hodsdon-Inspired sweetness & cool creator!
Phyllis Dobbs-Fanciful, fun & generous artist!

This has been a lovely surprise to be nominated and to be able to nominate some of the incredibly talented artists that I am so grateful to know! Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

Inspiration is defined as a "stimulation of the mind or emotions to a higher level of feeling or activity."  We see it happen all around us, the generosity or character of someone like Mother Teresa inspired millions to be more caring and selfless. Music inspires emotion often expressed through the joy of movement, dancing. Loving inspires lives to connect, to change, to make a difference. 

Inspiration & Creativity. The artist captures feeling, the message on canvas and the audience is continually inspired to feel deeply when they experience the piece. It is all about the emotion, the quieting of the thoughts and the falling into the feeling. The ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary. Those are the moments that infuse life with excitement. "Life is not measured by the breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away." 

With my work, what exactly is that feeling, I would describe it as a mix of imagination and excitement. Something I see inspires an idea for a new design, a kind of "aha" moment and an impatience to try it out immediately! Sometimes just doing nothing, letting the mind wander brings all kinds of ideas. In the mornings the view outside my window in the dappled sunlight is always inspiring, a tiny lively world lives in the branches of the apple tree. With each season the colors, the shapes change and it is constant source of inspired delight. It is barely spring here so the branches are stark in the sunlight, silhouettes are striking. The early morning finds many small birds flitting in the branches. Their energy is catching and the scene is one to be captured perhaps in a pillow design. Always Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

This week with several International Women's Day events happening locally I have been out exhibiting my Design & Creativity business. I have been asked many times so exactly what do you do. My short answer is I am a Professional International Author, Licensed Designer, Consultant & Creativity Coach in the Craft & Sewing Industries. I have also been following discussions this week around the topic of defining who we are and what we do. "Designer" is a very broad term which has to be narrowed and tailored with explanation. My experience and knowledge allows me to be flexible and adaptable, creative in working with my clients to give them the best support and results. I enjoy my work very much and the people in these industries are wonderful, it is a creative community but I also am a professional who earns a living in this field. The dilemma that is arising more and more is we are asked to do more work on spec, give more work away for free and if we don't there is a creative enthusiast who for the thrill of being published will. I do believe in sharing the love of creativity but I, we also need to be valued for our expertise and time. I am very fortunate to work with amazing editors and manufacturers, it is challenging times for everyone but working together and being a Creative Eternal Optimist! I believe we are moving in very interesting directions. The world needs more creativity, meaningful playtime! This discussion also brings up the question, How do you define yourself? Take some time to consider and be amazed at who you are. Always Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

The ART of the heART! the essence of life is art, everywhere creativity captures the soul of the artist and the audience. Whatever the medium used it is the means to bring a message to life. A message that is vital to the artist to express and one that the audience interprets individually and is touched, changed forever by the piece. I am very blessed to know many artists and creative people. Actually everyone I know is an artist, the difference being only, many know they are artists and many are unaware. I watch my daughter mixing and tasting another delicious dish, the aromatic flavors dancing into the air around her. Would she consider herself an artist no and yet her art touches my soul each day as she lovingly creates works of art that delight all of the senses.

I believe art is really about giving yourself permission to express yourself in a way that is meaningful to you. A way that touches your heart, brings a harmony to your life, it does not require lessons or special supplies. All it requires is a way of thinking and being, of mindful actions. It is also about valuing your creativity, your artistic self and not being afraid. We are our own harshest critics as adults and yet as young children we would try anything just for the pure joy of it. So my offering this week of the heART is to express yourself in a way that brings you JOY for an hour. Simply pencil to paper and declare I am an Artist!

I have declared for myself this year to try many artforms and mediums, to not judge my results but to celebrate them! Please celebrate along with me and make this the year of your heART! (This piece was inspired by a dear friend's clay creation and my interpreting it through my stitching and poetry).
Follow your dreams, follow the JOY! Debra

"I believe" the title of the Canadian theme song for the 2010 winter Olympics. All this past year our young athletes' faces have appeared in TV ads with the message "I believe, do you Canada?" (Click link in pink Twitter sidebar box and scroll down to I believe music video) We are hosting the Olympics in spectacular Whistler, BC among the majestic Rockie mountains. My brother lives there and is a volunteer for the Olympics, his own dream.

What do we believe? I believe we are given the gift to dream because we also have been given the ability to make our dreams come true!  So to all the dreams that will fill our country over the next few weeks, may they all come true! Just believe! Debra Quartermain, CEO!

This year I travelled more than usual and sometimes missed things, that would translate into missing things at home and also more often than not overlooking other things. One such item was a post I did for the wonderful site "Craft for Health", the creative partnership of Kathy Peterson and Barb Dehn. Their blog features people from all over the world sharing their inspirational stories of how crafting has impacted their lives and those they share their gifts with. When our hands and mind are involved in the act of creation, our bodies relax and rejuvenate, creativity is good for us in so many ways.

The post I did way back in October tells the story of the Craft Club I started several years ago at my daughter's elementary school. There was an art room available to use and I brought in supplies for weekly noon hour craft projects. It was so much fun and the kids enjoyed themselves. Whatever their mood when they arrived was by the end of the hour they all left relaxed and happy. I will always remember one little boy coming up to me and saying he couldn't sleep the night before because he was so excited to come to Craft Club and make a bear! Read the full post (Oct 21st, near bottom of page)

What we create everyday touches someone and when we share that love of creativity we touch the world. We all make a difference! Always follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

"The only Journey is the Journey within", I am putting together a new studio upstairs and this is the line I have put above the window. It speaks to me in its simplicity and honesty. For who we are and who we become is because of our Journey. We stop along the way to linger in the land of cracker crumbs and juice or hold the hand of one who used to swing us in their arms. Each stop in the journey unfolds more of our strengths, our wisdom, our courage and our compassion. This journey too is filled with those who make a difference in our lives, the paths we choose. Let someone know today how they have made a difference in your life, let this be "thoughtful Thursday".

Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

All life is about creating, we arrive as miracles of creation, we create our lives everyday. Life is a living being, our actions are ones of creation, these acts result too in emotions. As beings we hold within us a wide range and expanse of emotion and feelings. Each day can bring us moments of pure joy, deep sadness and everything in between. Mostly I choose JOY, I choose JOY because I have lived many other moments that have been filled with the whole human experience. Yet because of those moments I can find great JOY. I define JOY as a feeling in my heart like the most glorious sunburst, rays radiatiing throughout my body, my mind, my eyes. My body responds by dancing (when at home I crank up the music and just dance around the whole house) Being able to move, kick, twirl is just more JOY!

My life in the past year and a half has been one of many changes, I moved my Mom and took care of her, I moved to be even closer to her, my oldest moved back in to finish her second degree. My Mom passed away peacefully, my youngest graduated high school, in University now, my oldest is now done her degree and finishing moving out today for the final time. I now have someone else new in my life after a long time. JOY often trails through our life mixed with bittersweet feelings of past moments now gone and replaced with the adventure of the present and the unknown yet to be.

Yet what I do know is I will always create JOY, I will always find moments that make my heart sing. Life is full, life is busy but it also must have a reason, a space for creating, for creating JOY. If you are looking for JOY, grab some crayons and paper, put on your favorite music, draw, dance and just open your heart, there is JOY! Follow the JOY! Debra, CEO!

On the weekend I took part in a conference for women, Nurturing Ourselves. A large group of women came together to relax and laugh, learn about themselves and to connect with other women. I met some incredible, strong, smart funny women all of whom lead full lives and for the most part recognize caring for themselves is vital to their future. Many women were in the sandwich generation and then there were the younger women, bright, articulate and self assured. We were entertained by the NB Rebelles Gumboot Troop, young women who performed a rhythmic drum dance with gumboots. The dance began in Africa when men were shackled to work in the water filled mines, they were given gumboots and were not allowed to speak. They developed a whole voice for themselves by drumming on their boots. The young women who developed their own gumboot drum group based their performance on speaking out against oppression, aggression and capitalism. A very moving and striking performance.

In the evening I attended my daughter's Nursing graduating class pin dinner. It was a very special evening and the class of approximately forty students, four young men and the rest smart, beautiful radiant young women. Their smiles and pride in their huge accomplishment of finishing the first two year accelerated degree program was a joy to be part of that special evening.

All the young women of the weekend were a reminder of what the future will be in their capable and caring hands committed to a bright future and to making a real difference. As I watched my daughter with her friends celebrating raising their voices in a rousing cheer my heart was filled with JOY for this is the future, our daughters.

Follow the JOY!  Debra Quartermain, CEO!

  Fran & Freda will return next Fowl Friday! I am here on a day when we remember September 11 and how all of our lives changed that day. The terror and devastation, the sadness all were raw and real. I had just returned from Phoenix just a few hours before and in our group were several designers from New York, one had her husband along, a New York firefighter. She organized many relief efforts and we became the best of friends. Our whole group like so many everywhere said what can we do and did. We are all shaped by that day and those that followed. Heroism happens in the quiet unseen moments when people continue past their breaking point, putting others first and caring deeply from the roots of their beings.

Believing comes from the place where when there is chaos or despair around us we still believe that it will pass, that we have to hold on to our beliefs for ourselves, our children for others of the world, that people are intrinsically good and when given the opportunity will rise to what they are called to do. We know so many that inspire us to shine, to be our best, to volunteer with our mind, body and soul. Today we celebrate those who truly are making a difference with some of the people I am very honored to know.

Today finds my daughter in one of her last clinical rotations of her nursing degree, her first choice was community and so today she is walking the streets as a homeless person to get a slight feel of what her clients live every day. Her instructor is a committed activist for human rights and the local shelters.

Bernie Berlin of a A Place to Bark, a no kill foster and adoption shelter, is a young designer who runs this amazing shelter. Her updates consist of the dogs rescued, their health issues, her success in reclaiming their lives and giving them a future. Her dedication is amazing and she could use votes right now to receive a much needed grant. Please visit her site to find out details to vote and to see her life's work.

The Holocaust Museum Houston is collecting handmade butterflies for an exhibit in Spring 2012 representing each child lost in the Holocaust, 1.5 million. There are a couple of groups on Facebook, one of which is led by the talented designer Michelle Zimmerman. Michelle's father is a Holocaust survivor. She and Helen Bradley another amazing talent organize the AMACO Friendly Plastic butterfly challenge.

Kiva , "loans that change lives", is a place where you can lend $25 to a small business somewhere around the world and make a world of difference. I support a women's sewing business in Africa and they have within this past year almost paid it entirley back. It can then be reinvested into another small business.

Believing and doing, a powerful combination. This is dedicated to all of those who believe and do everyday. We walk this path but once and each footprint makes a difference. To the steps we take and the path followed may it bring JOY filled difference to all who we meet along the way.

Remembering & Believing, Debra, CEO! Creative Eternal Optimist!

First I must apologize for Fran & Freda, they missed posting on Fowl Friday. I had to be away for the day and they were left with a very short list of to do's. (Thinking I need to rename their lists to To DON"TS!) They will be back tomorrow with news they are just all in a flap about! I am collecting their stray feathers for some sort of crafty project, now if I could just get them to lay some eggs...

Today being Labor Day, a day free from Labor for some and the day before school begins here it always feels like the true beginning of a new year. It has been six months since my Mom passed away, it both seems like yesterday and forever at the same time. I often still forget and go to call her, I miss her very much but the time passing has lessened the early days of grief when tears veiled my eyes many times each day. Caring for her was not always easy in those last couple of years but I know it gave her a quality of life that she enjoyed in the time she had left and that she was ready to go.

I find myself at a time in my life after being a single Mom since my youngest was 15 months old that my caregiving days are dramatically changing. My oldest daughter has only three more months of school left for her second degree and will be out working in the new year, moving out into her own place. My youngest daughter, my baby begins University classes tomorrow and has been gone much this past week with Frosh week activities and friends. She has a car now and more freedom. She is going to University in town but much different than a regular school schedule and for how long she will be at home, those days are numbered.

So I find myself in a place of what now...I have always my work which keeps me quite busy and which I truly love. I find my creativity is renewed these days and the ideas are flowing. My daughters are encouraging me to begin dating again. Considering Fran & Freda's exploits with Hatch.com not sure of the whole internet experience. Community involvement and volunteering is something else I now want to give more time to and attending different events.

My Mom taught me many lessons and even with her passing there have been many more. To love like there is no tomorrow, to make a difference to someone or something each and everyday, to always be grateful and say thank you. I spent more time with my brother recently and am always struck by his gratitude and respect of everyone. It is the little things, whenever we went out to eat if the server was not wearing a name tag he would always ask their name and then use it often as they served us.

So the next chapter begins, I love where I live, I love my work and the opportunities it has given me and most of all the dearest of friends near and far. I guess this is my chapter and what I choose to write upon the pages will be my legacy someday. I choose my words, my actions to enrich my life and all those who are part of it. (and if anyone has a nice available friend say fiftyish email me :)

May you dance upon this earth each day to a harmony that will linger long & lovingly! Debra, CEO!

First I must apologize for Fran & Freda, they missed posting on Fowl Friday. I had to be away for the day and they were left with a very short list of to do's. (Thinking I need to rename their lists to To DON"TS!) They will be back tomorrow with news they are just all in a flap about! I am collecting their stray feathers for some sort of crafty project, now if  I could just get them to lay some eggs...

Today being Labor Day, a day free from Labor for some and the day before school begins here it always feels like the true beginning of a new year. It has been six months since my Mom passed away, it both seems like yesterday and forever at the same time. I often still forget and go to call her, I miss her very much but the time passing has lessened the early days of grief when tears veiled my eyes many times each day. Caring for her was not always easy in those last couple of years but I know it gave her a quality of life that she enjoyed in the time she had left and that she was ready to go.

I find myself at a time in my life after being a single Mom since my youngest was 15 months old that my caregiving days are dramatically changing. My oldest daughter has only three more months of school left for her second degree and will be out working in the new year, moving out into her own place. My youngest daughter, my baby begins University classes tomorrow and has been gone much this past week with Frosh week activities and friends. She has a car now and more freedom. She is going to University in town but much different than a regular school schedule and for how long she will be at home, those days are numbered.

So I find myself in a place of what now...I have always my work which keeps me quite busy and which I truly love. I find my creativity is renewed these days and the ideas are flowing. My daughters are encouraging me to begin dating again. Considering Fran & Freda's exploits with Hatch.com not sure of the whole internet experience. Community involvement and volunteering is something else I now want to give more time to and attending different events.

My Mom taught me many lessons and even with her passing there have been many more. To love like there is no tomorrow, to make a difference to someone or something each and everyday, to always be grateful and say thank you. I spent more time with my brother recently and am always struck by his gratitude and respect of everyone. It is the little things, whenever we went out to eat if the server was not wearing a name tag he would always ask their name and then use it often as they served us.

So the next chapter begins, I love where I live, I love my work and the opportunities it has given me and most of all the dearest of friends near and far. I guess this is my chapter and what I choose to write upon the pages will be my legacy someday. I choose my words, my actions to enrich my life and all those who are part of it. (and if anyone has a nice available friend say fiftyish email me :)

May you dance upon this earth each day to a harmony that will linger long & lovingly! Debra, CEO!