One Rare Bird

I'm An Artist

Like a lot of creative-types, I've struggled to call myself an Artist. I paint, I write, I bake,  I take pictures - I couldn't imagine living in a world where art isn't a primary focus - but does that make me an artist? I'm coming to the conclusion that it does. And sometimes it takes something like winning a photo contest to help me realize it.

I'm honored to be the winner of last year's Salem Is photo contest and to be featured in an interview where I get to talk shop about life, photography and what it means to live in Salem, Oregon. It's also another opportunity for me to stand to my full height as an Artist and embrace my unique perspecitve.

 

"There is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost." -Martha Graham

Goodbye 2013...

 

Treat People Like It's Their Birthday. Every. Day.

This says it all...

  A Pep Talk from Kid President by Soulpancake

For Your Enjoyment

There's nothing like a hilarious video that leaves you laughing for days. These videos are so great and deserve to be passed around for everyone's enjoyment. The first video was sent to me by a friend on Facebook, the second video was brought to my attention by a co-worker (I especially love minute 1:59), and the third video...I don't know where I found it, and it's not exactly funny, but it makes me very happy and extremely uncomfortable at the same time. Enjoy!

Substitute Teacher by Key & Peele

A Bad Lip Reading of the NFL

Dance Like Nobody's Watching via Hello Giggles

The Best Argument I've Heard for Gay Marriage So Far

One to Make You Cry, and One to Make You Laugh

I don't spend much time on Facebook but I was browing my Wall (or whatever that place is where you can see everyone's posts...) and came across two really great videos. The first took me back and warmed my heart because I feel very lucky to have spent my childhood afternoons with Mr. Rogers. The second video brought the much needed relief and joy that only deep laughter can bring. Maybe these won't have the same effect on you, but it's not everyday I'm grateful for what Facebook has to offer, so I thought these worth sharing...

Mister Rogers Remixed

Conan Writes Blues Songs with Kids

Holiday Movies I Can't Live Without

Last year I shared clips from my all-time favorite Christmas movie and since it's that time of year agian I feel compelled to share more of my go-to faves. If you haven't been bitten by the holiday bug quite yet then get yourself to the couch with some cozy blankets, a steaming cup of hot cocoa, and all of these movies, and be prepared to engage in some holiday cheer!

Love Actually

The Family Stone

The Holiday

The Family Man

P.S. I'd love to hear what your go-to holiday movies are? A girl can never watch too many :)

"The Thought of Bastardizing Coffee with Milk Makes Me Want to Throw Up"

I'm a total coffee snob who likes to boast regularly about my history as a bad-ass barista with mad espresso-making skills, and since I live near Portland I've definitely experienced a snobby barista or two - I can't deny I've probably been one myself - but these girls take "coffee snob" to a whole new level. Enjoy!

Brannock is 5

Today is my son's 5th birthday, and I'm once again shocked at how quickly the time has flown by. It's undeniable how his life, with his huge sense of love and wonder, has changed the trgectory of my life forever. So today goes out to the One and Only: Brannock. Happy Birthday!

Growing is Forever

This video says it all: Growing is forever. It's beautifully simple, and sometimes awefully hard, and always - always - worthwhile.