So I was asked to be a presenter at The Arts day at my boys' school last week. It was a brand new event that I'm sure they hope to continue and I was thrilled to see them put it all together.
I've identified myself as 'an artist' since I was about 4 or 5 years old and has been a constant love throughout my life.
So imagine my disappointment through my own school years when art was just a kind of throw away subject.
I even took Industrial Arts in Jr. High so I could 'make stuff' rather than the girl-typical Home Ec classes (explains a lot now, doesn't it).
However, while I enjoyed painting ceramics and printmaking and a few other subjects, what I really got was to spend time with some jacking-around teen age boys who couldn't pay attention and a teacher who was painfully shy and not very communicative (although he was probably well intentioned, the boys were a lot to manage in a shop full of power tools).
All around, less than inspiring.
(I then went to 'art school' for college which was a thrill for me although in my own mind I saw it as a bit of an indulgence since 'artists' never make any money...but that's perhaps another topic...I digress)
Now back to the present...when a lovely friend of mine asked if I'd be interested in presenting a class on Photography for the kids at school my mind became a swirl of fear and excitement.
The more I thought about it, the more excited I became. Especially with focus more on the creative process. It was so much fun just thinking about what I could talk about with a group of fresh young minds!
It become a process of paring down the information to a reasonable amount for 3-6 graders so I didn't totally overwhelm then with all my excitement about photography.
When the day came I taught 4 sessions (which is good practice at getting over nerves) and I explained a few simple concepts and showed examples from my own work and then let them loose with cameras. Which was pretty awesome/hilarious to watch!
1. I am grateful for the enthusiasm of the teachers and parents at the school who made it a priority to have different artists come in and show a diversity of creative arts to the kids. (although the ultimate goal would be to have a yearlong program or multiple programs - but one step at a time)
2. I love photography. It was fun to really ponder and reflect on what makes me happy about this medium and how I got to where I am today. And looking back at photos of my kids - fun for me.
3. I am ever grateful to my mom who came into town to spend the day with my daughter so that I could spend the day doing something that was important to me. And rather than feeling left out The Babe got to spend a special day crafting and playing and being the center of attention. It doesn't get much better than that. Thanks Mom!
Monday, January 30, 2012
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Grateful 22/01/12
1. Family night - on Friday we all went to a hockey game compliments of Mr. Mittens work. While we do spend quite a bit of time together (too much??) it was nice to go out for the evening and spend time with new friends (grown ups and kids) too.
It was great fun to watch all the kids watching the game. It may have been one (or two) periods too long for some 4yr olds, but it was a lot more fun than my usual night out of getting groceries.
2. I am having a great hair day. I almost hate to sleep on it.
I try not to use too many heat products during the week when I'm not going anywhere and before Christmas I tried a new hair color 'experiment' that didn't go as well as I'd hoped. I really should have known better but sometimes I just can't help myself. Anywhooo...today it all worked out nicely for a change. Yay me.
3. I'm working on a project for Wednesday. It's not a secret or anything, I'm doing a presentation at the kids school for their Arts Day. I plan to go into more detail in an upcoming post. On Sat I had a few hours to get several things accomplished, which depended greatly on the efficiency of others. I was nervous. However, it all got done. Everything really fell into place. It was awesome and I'm really excited about it. I will definitely be getting back to you on the that one!
Happy weekend everybody!
It was great fun to watch all the kids watching the game. It may have been one (or two) periods too long for some 4yr olds, but it was a lot more fun than my usual night out of getting groceries.
2. I am having a great hair day. I almost hate to sleep on it.
I try not to use too many heat products during the week when I'm not going anywhere and before Christmas I tried a new hair color 'experiment' that didn't go as well as I'd hoped. I really should have known better but sometimes I just can't help myself. Anywhooo...today it all worked out nicely for a change. Yay me.
3. I'm working on a project for Wednesday. It's not a secret or anything, I'm doing a presentation at the kids school for their Arts Day. I plan to go into more detail in an upcoming post. On Sat I had a few hours to get several things accomplished, which depended greatly on the efficiency of others. I was nervous. However, it all got done. Everything really fell into place. It was awesome and I'm really excited about it. I will definitely be getting back to you on the that one!
Happy weekend everybody!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Happy 2012
Happy New Year! Ok, so January is half over, but that's still new-ish, right?
My formal 'resolution' this year is to buy a really nice fitting pair of jeans. Something that says, 'hey, I may have a flat butt, but don't your eyes just love these dazzling pockets, and wow I think I might look a little taller in these' jeans. If you know where I can find them, DO TELL!
But I was also thinking that it might be a good time to try something new here. I use to really love posting. I used to love sharing little stories or my opinion or whatever was on my mind. I still love posting photos, but I haven't felt like sharing much else. I just haven't been in the mood frankly!
So in an attempt to improve my mood I think I might start posting things I'm thankful for. Not exclusively, but a little gratitude goes a long way...right?! It's quick and simple and if you feel like joining in (here or on your own blog) please do!
(you know, like if you're not too tired when you're done pinning!!)
Even though a blog is really just ME, ME, ME, I really enjoy your thoughts and opinions too!
So for today I am thankful for (I think 3 things is a good number to shoot for)
1. HEAT - The kids are home today because it's too damn cold out. Heaters are cranked full blast. Oh I just saw a deer outside. Poor guy. I wish I could give him some ear/leg warmers. I'd love to see that!
2. $2 watercolor paints I got at the grocery store - I was smart and bought 3 sets so there wouldn't be any fighting. The tiny Picasso's are painting up a storm. And it mostly washes out of everything. Sheer brilliance on my part. Did you notice #1. up there where the kids are home from school today??
3. This Muffin in a Minute recipe - I add a handful of frozen blueberries, a minute and a half in the micro and yum yum yum! I have been eating gluten free for the past several weeks (and yes, I do feel better - less bloaty) so this little muffin really hits the spot.
And voila - I'm less moody already!
My formal 'resolution' this year is to buy a really nice fitting pair of jeans. Something that says, 'hey, I may have a flat butt, but don't your eyes just love these dazzling pockets, and wow I think I might look a little taller in these' jeans. If you know where I can find them, DO TELL!
But I was also thinking that it might be a good time to try something new here. I use to really love posting. I used to love sharing little stories or my opinion or whatever was on my mind. I still love posting photos, but I haven't felt like sharing much else. I just haven't been in the mood frankly!
So in an attempt to improve my mood I think I might start posting things I'm thankful for. Not exclusively, but a little gratitude goes a long way...right?! It's quick and simple and if you feel like joining in (here or on your own blog) please do!
(you know, like if you're not too tired when you're done pinning!!)
Even though a blog is really just ME, ME, ME, I really enjoy your thoughts and opinions too!
So for today I am thankful for (I think 3 things is a good number to shoot for)
1. HEAT - The kids are home today because it's too damn cold out. Heaters are cranked full blast. Oh I just saw a deer outside. Poor guy. I wish I could give him some ear/leg warmers. I'd love to see that!
2. $2 watercolor paints I got at the grocery store - I was smart and bought 3 sets so there wouldn't be any fighting. The tiny Picasso's are painting up a storm. And it mostly washes out of everything. Sheer brilliance on my part. Did you notice #1. up there where the kids are home from school today??
3. This Muffin in a Minute recipe - I add a handful of frozen blueberries, a minute and a half in the micro and yum yum yum! I have been eating gluten free for the past several weeks (and yes, I do feel better - less bloaty) so this little muffin really hits the spot.
And voila - I'm less moody already!
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