Art Journal: Building Blocks

Building Block Art Journal Spread by Dawn Herring

Have I told you how much Fun art journaling is? But it's not just fun. It's insightful. It's a place to give full expression to your heart, your emotions and your thoughts about life. And you can get a specific and as general as you wish. 

I find art journaling to be a powerful subconscious tool since it can combine many elements together, such a color, texture, image, words, and layering of things that can be meaningful in ways that go deeper. I like it when I go deep. Although it can be a challenge to assimilate what I learn since the deeper you go, the more insightful it gets. When you receive insight about yourself, you may recognize areas you need to change, And we all know that change isn't easy. But it's necessary if we are to grow into Who We Are every day, right?

So, art journaling is, for me, a great way to understand and know myself in such a way as to create authentic positive change. 

For this spread, I started with a stencil. I recently purchased alpha and numeric stencils to use in my art journaling, and lately I've been experimenting (love to experiment!) with sprays. I've been putting pigment in water in a little spray bottle to see how well it works and how dark a color I can get with it. That's still a work in progress. 

This time I used liquid ink in an red/orange color with water and sprayed it twice (drying in between) over a numeric stencil. It didn't come out as dark as I would have liked but it was visible even though washy. This was also a spread I made stencils for. (Making stencils was one of my goals this year as an art journal keeper and artist in general.) I made a leaf stencil and one with squares, both of which I used in this spread as you can see even more clearly in the images below. (I also added a yellow watercolor.)

Up close of Leaf Stencil

I like the way the leaf stencil came out. I used a cosmetic sponge to apply the watercolor paint. I just have to watch I don't use too much water otherwise it gets under the stencil. It really is all in the experimenting! I learn as a go, and I have fun at the same time. (That's my mantra in art journaling, isn't it? ;)) Once I had my stencils work in place, I noted that the squares reminded me of building blocks. So I decided to add the words, Building Blocks, using colored construction paper as background and I would stamp each one with a letter. I had to determine where the blocks would go. There are so many variables based on what's on the page already as well as what looks right. Once I settled on the 'where' of it, I adhered them with matte medium, and then stamped the letters. 

Up close of Blocks and square stencil

Once I had that completed, I felt like the yellow was a bit "loud," so I decided to tone it down a bit with red watercolor paint applied with a sponge and then later, outlined with a paintbrush. I also decided to add more building blocks to the page by cutting out squares of paper, laying them out in such a manner as to resemble bricks, which I later outlined in white  and red on yellow. 

Up close of Challenges

Once I had that completed, I begin to think more deeply about the Building Blocks of life. Not only do our homes get built with a strong foundation, but our inner lives have one as well. But what are those building blocks made of? 

Joy and Happiness are wonderful building blocks created from lovely life experiences we have. But what about those life challenges that throw us off our center or make us look more carefully at our choices? 

Ah yes, those! They have so much to teach us, don't they? What triggered that initial reaction or action on our parts? What can that tell us about ourselves? 

I'm always one to dig deeper in my journal when I ask myself such questions so I can learn what I can to make that all-essential positive change. Know what NOT to do next time and what TO DO for my health and well being. 

So as I asked this question, I decided to add 'Life Challenges" to my spread, using a stencil for the lettering, which I applied with watercolor and outlined with white gel pen. 

As I thought more deeply, I realized that Life Challenges are Building Blocks to....Alignment! (Which I added also with stencil.) Yes. When we recognize the positive change needed and take action to do what is necessary to implement that positive change, we get REALIGNED with Who We Are. (I was actually excited to share that with you since I know how powerful it was for me.) 

I am all for realigning with Who I Am, since I know when I am thrown out of alignment from life challenges, it doesn't feel very good. No. And who wants to stay there anyway? Not a very healthy place to be. 

My journal and art journal are both places that help me stay aligned and help me re-align when needed. 

Art Journal/Journal Prompt:
Are you facing a life challenge that has thrown you off your center? Have you been blindsided by something unexpected and are smarting because of it? Explain in detail this challenge in your written journal, including what triggered the challenge, how you reacted to the challenge, and what made you realize it threw you off your center. What did you do or still need to do to get realigned? What positive change do you need to make as a result of this life challenge? 

In your art journal, use the color that most represents this challenge for you and apply in a way that Honors your emotion and your feelings right where you are. Pull text from magazines or simply write words that express those feelings best visually. You can also use an image that best represents what this challenge is telling you about yourself. You can also write a poem that Honors the Positive Change you are implementing as a result of this life challenge you have experienced. 

Validating and Honoring your emotions and Who You Are in a Life Challenge is essential to help you go deeper in understanding how your life works for you and what you can do to make it the best quality of life you can. 

Remember that those Life challenges can be the Building Blocks to the Life You really want. Don't be afraid to go for what Aligns you with Who You Are from the inside out. 

Copyright 2015 Dawn Herring
Copyright 2015 Images by Dawn Herring Collection

Note: I have included a link to my new Refresh Daily blog where this post was originally created. I wanted to be sure you received this post since you are a  reader and subscriber to this For A Fresh Perspective Blog. However, I am not posting every Refresh Daily post here. If you want to get all of my blog content, you are welcome to subscribe to Refresh Daily. 

Art Journal: Soul Deep

Have I ever told you how much I love Art Journaling? I'm always singing its praises since I know how rewarding the process can be. And this 2 page spread that you see in the first image is no different. 

I did want to express the importance of having a good stash of art journal fodder on hand if you like the collage element of creation like I do. I recommend saving magazines, circulars, junk mail and anything that has images, text or designs that you like and pull what you're drawn to. I love doing this; sometimes when I don't want to paint but I do want to get into a creative mindset, I'll go through a magazine or two and pull what I like and stash it in my drawers for future reference. 

For this particular spread, I used several things from my stash, with my current favorite color (or at least one of them!) turquoise. I decided I also wanted to lay down some newspaper and tissue paper along with the magazine fodder to create a more layered look. And I achieved just that. :) 

I used gesso to prime the pages initially. Then I started to tear the newspaper in strips and adhered them with matte medium. Once I had that down, I tore bits and strips of the turquoise fodder, first one with a lighter color turquoise, then later I added the darker hues that included black from another image altogether. I added more gesso between these applications to tone down the color but to also add texture and visual interest. Gesso is great for that. I usually apply the gesso with a wide plastic palette knife initially then I switch to a more narrow palette knife when using it over layers. The second image is an up close of the left page. 

Once I had all the layers and gesso down, I also added some turquoise watercolor paint from Prang and added stippling in various areas for more design and for visual interest. I also added some black in various spots to highlight some of the black on parts of collage I used. Once I had all of this complete, I began to look carefully at the composition I created and realized it reminded me of being under water with the color turquoise. Deep under water. Water can also been symbolic of emotion. And emotions are in the soul. Thus the title, Soul Deep. So I stamped the words SOUL DEEP with upper case alpha stamps and again in smaller letters. I accented the letters with black, turquoise and white to define them. The third image is an up close of the right page. 

One of the things I wanted to point out with this Soul Deep spread; when we want to go deeper in learning more about ourselves, deep where those core emotions lie, it can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when we reckon with unexpected emotions of the soul. This is where we have to be nurturing with ourselves, so we don't end up feeling like we desperately need to come up for air. You know how when you go swimming and dive deep, the first thing you want to do, out of necessity, is come up for air. The same goes for emotional swimming. There's a place for seeking and splashing and discovering. But when it's time for air, we need to be flexible with ourselves, rather than exacting. Especially when we've made mistakes. 

Be willing to go deep--even soul deep. But Be Gentle with what you discover. But be ready to see what needs to change too, because that will come. But you'll be ready for it. 

And when you do come up for air, the air will be sweet and invigorating; and you will be changed--for the better. 

Enjoy your swim! 

(This post was originally posted on my Refresh Daily blog; I have posted it here for my subscribers. If you would like to continue receiving all of my blog posts, you're welcome to subscribe to Refresh Daily.) 

Copyright 2015 by Dawn Herring
Copyright 2015 Images by Dawn Herring Collection

2014: My Year in Review

I am absolutely amazed how quickly this year of 2014 has gone by! It's such a surprise to me that it's time for my year-end review. This year has truly been a year of transition, re-prioritizing, and launching of many good things.

As I jotted down a list of things to share with you in my journal, I was amazed as to how much I had almost forgotten about, you know? It's like, when I think about things, sometimes it just doesn't feel that long ago or when it was months ago, I'm so focused on the present moment, that I sometimes forget all the good stuff!

Since I often talk about my Life Dimensions, I thought I would share with you my year based on the areas of life they are suited to, whether it's me as writer, artist, host, consultant, refreshment initiator, journal keeper or art journal keeper.

I'll begin with one of my favorite areas of Life as an Artist...I continue to greatly enjoy the Wonderful World of Watercolor. It's my favorite medium hands down in comparison to other mediums I've used, whether pencil, colored pencil, charcoal or pen and ink (and acrylics that I worked with early on in high school and beyond). Watercolor is fun to work and experiment with. I always get excited when I meet another watercolor artist, which is where I often derive inspiration when I see what others are doing with their paints. This year I started using Winsor Newton watercolor trays and tubes, which I now use exclusively for my watercolor canvas and paper paintings. I still use my Prang watercolors for my art journaling fun...which I've been doing for almost 5 years! I started my first art journal back in January of 2010 and I've never looked back. Art journaling is so much fun but it's also a powerful tool of understanding and personal expression that goes beyond words. I recommend it for anyone! You can check out my Dawn Herring Collection Art Gallery on my website to see all the paintings I've posted there. I did a total of 5 paintings this year: Tapestry in Translation, Tree of Heart, Dive, Potential, and one work is in progress! There are others from 2013 posted there as well. I have set some cool goals for my artsy side of life for 2015, and I also have a new space for my Art Studio/Gallery which I'm excited about.

Now I'll switch to another dimension as a Writer...first up in this category is my newly artistically -focused blog, Refresh Daily, on my website, which you can now subscribe to! I post my usual Fresh Perspective insights, but I also post about what inspires me and the inside details of my life as an Artist, which is my Authentic Refreshment revealed! I am having lots of fun sharing from my artsy point of view and would love for you to join me. We can all have a refreshed state of mind when we engage in something that Honors Who We Are, and one of my goals for Refresh Daily is to encourage you to find Yours!

I also continue to publish my monthly Refresh Journal  where I share insights from my life experience and share the best of what I find on the web in the journaling department as well as refreshing tips for your life dimensions. You're welcome to sign up for your personal copy!

I did two interviews this year...one was written for Marianne Rossi's Blog, Journaling for Your Life, where I shared about my journaling and art journaling practices. It was such fun detailing what I love engaging in so much.

The other interview was audio and was hosted by Linda Joy Myers of International Association of Memoir Writers; I presented Journaling for the Empowering Discovery of Who You Are. It was an honor to be interviewed by Linda and to share from my personal journalng experience as well as discuss being host of #JournalChat Live.

Which leads me to another Dimension of my Life: Journaling! As host of #JournalChat Live on Twitter and now Facebook as well, I having a joyous, refreshing time sharing and learning from other journal keepers. This year, I switched to using sketchbooks instead of lined books for my personal journaling. And boy, am I having a blast! I've added daily doodling to my evening routine, summarizing my days with words and phrases and having fun with Winsor Newton watercolor markers to brighten things up a bit! Didn't realize what a difference a sketchbook would make for me, especially for me as an artist. I find doodling and coloring so relaxing as I wrap up my day. You should try it! I continue to write a.m. and p.m. most days and sometimes a mid day entry depending on my work schedule. I love doing the dominant and non dominant writing and other techniques that have become mainstays in my daily journaling.

This year was the launch of my 21 Day Refresh Intensive Course; It was fun and insightful to engage with those who took the course and learned more about themselves in an Honoring and Intuitive Manner. I now offer the Course in PDF format so you can be refreshed anytime!

As Host of #JournalChat Live,  it's been a fun and insightful year and I am so appreciative of the Special Guests and contributors of our #JournalChat Live Events on both Twitter and Facebook. You can read the full list of what we engaged in with our #JournalChat Live friends! I so enjoy connecting with other journal keepers and those who encourage others to keep a journal for all the myriad benefits we can experience when we journal our lives.

New on the Dawn Herring Front is my newly re-launched website, Refresh with Dawn Herring, where I have added two new consulting services, Your Life Refreshed!, which is focused on Activating Your Creative Center for Daily Refreshment Authentic to Your Personality, Preferences and Purpose in Life, and Your Business Refreshed!, which is a combination of Creative Infusion and Social Media Marketing for greater visibility on the web. I'm excited to work with folks in these areas of development for their refreshment and success in their lives and businesses.

Wow. What a year it has been. My life is FULL, thanks to the many journaling, art journaling and writing and artist and many other friends I've connected with. It's been an insightful and fun journey as we learn and grow and care for each other.

I want to thank YOU, my readers and subscribers to this blog, For A Fresh Perspective and my newest blog, Refresh Daily. I appreciate your interest in what I do and who I Am. It's been fab sharing my life with you in 2014!

I look forward to what 2015 has in store for us; let's continue to enjoy this journey together---Refreshed! :)

© 2014 By Dawn Herring

JOY: A Seasonal Prompt

Excited to be a part of Jani Franck's Creative Community called the Bubbling Well. We're in the midst of a 21 Day Comfort and Joy journey in our creative journals, so I thought I'd share my stuff with you all. 

Having a sketch book for me has transformed my  journaling experience and has injected JOY into my every day journaling habit. Do you know why? Well, without lines, I feel free to express myself more creatively rather than just writing. So I Doodle! Doodling is so much fun because anything goes. In addition to my Uniball Micro waterproof black pen that I write with, I have also recently added Winsor Newton Watercolor markers. Fun, Fun, FUN! 

I am seriously having such a BLAST making colorful doodles; most of them I choose a word or phrase to summarize my day. Well, this particular JOY Doodle was initiated by my first prompt from Jani's Comfort and Joy journey, so here it is. :) (In case you're wondering about the shadow, I covered the writing above the doodle with paper, thus a shadow is cast.)

As I was JOYFULLY creating this, I thought of a candy cane for the first letter so I did Burnt Sienna for a reddish hue. The middle letter, O, I just did swirls around and then colored them in abstractly with Burnt Sienna and Raw Sienna. Had Super Fun with this one. Then the Y letter reminds me of a layer cake, or perhaps layers of refreshment you add to your day. 

I used the brush end of my markers since I prefer that side; it has a smoother application. So it's a bit hard to stay in the lines so to speak. But who says I have to do that anyway, right? I love to do art spontaneously. That works for me. But it's also nice to have something fresh to work with, thus this JOY prompt. 

I also followed this doodle with a list of what gives me JOY. Maybe I'll add more later. 

So, what gives YOU joy? 
Something refreshing,  uplifting, fun? 
You know what item really surprised me that I wrote down?
QUIET. 
We live in such a noisy world. So I really appreciate the Quiet when I experience it; very joyful, in a quiet sort of way. 

Try doodling your refreshment. I know I have fun and enJOYment when I do. No Rules. Just Spontaneous Fun. 

EnJOY your Holiday Season. Especially for YOU. 

P. S. This is a blog post I wrote on my Refresh Daily blog. I'm posting it here so you can see it on this blog, For a Fresh Perspective, as well. I value my subscribers/readers. If you would like to get all of my blog posts from Refresh  Daily, please subscribe there as well. I'm having so much fun, and I certainly wouldn't want you to miss out on any of it! 

Copyright 2014 Dawn Herring 

A False Start

Have you ever experienced a False Start? 
Maybe you know the kind...where you have an idea of something you want to accomplish. It sounds really good. But then when you actually start working on it, it's not at all what you envisioned. 

It can be really upsetting when this happens, and you wonder where you went wrong. You feel a bit thrown, perhaps off your center a bit, disappointed. You might even let out an Argh or Dang It as I sometimes like to say when I'm frustrated. ;) 

See the palette below? This is one I use for my watercolor painting. Actually, I have two, just in case I decide to do more than one painting at a time (which I haven't done as of yet, just with my art journal). 

Do you notice the residue from the Winsor Blue paint in the upper right corner and in one of the small round areas? Yep, that's where I had my paint placed for a new painting I was about to start. 

But it's not there anymore, is it? Not. Nope. I took it out within 5 to 10 minutes after I put it in. The consistency of the paint was not to my liking (straight of the tube with water), like my other colors were from my previous painting that I just completed. So I decided to just remove it. Just like that. (And I cleaned it out a bit better so now there's just a blue stain, not paint.) 

I put it on my blotter paper so that I could at least use it in collage at a later time; no waste then. 
But you know what was really interesting? 

The Winsor Blue wasn't the only color I had laid out. I also had Winsor Orange and Yellow Ochre, which I had used in my previous painting. But the colors didn't mix well (it's true that when you mix complementary colors, it looks like mud). Nothing mixed well. It just looked uninspiring, to say the least. 

But as I was removing the Winsor Blue, I had a glimpse of the Winsor Orange and Yellow Ochre, and thought, maybe I could work with those two colors and work with a couple of others besides and see how it goes.

In other words, as I was removing myself from this creative False Start, I had another idea for the Start that I actually decided to run with. It's often when we are exiting from something that disappoints, and might even tick us off that we can reveal our truer path of creativity. 

That might just actually work out! 

I did start a new painting, using the Yellow Ochre as a start. So far, so good. 

Have you had a False Start recently? Did you find another truer path in the withdrawal process? 
If so, I'd love to hear about it! 

In the meanwhile, I'm happily applying my paint, with ideas in my mind of where I want it to go. 
And you know what? I'm okay with whatever happens. 

I'm listening and painting step by step; I'm honoring Who I Am as an Artist as I do. 
When you take the time daily to Honor Who You Are in whatever Life Dimension calls out to you, you are nurturing the core of your being and saying YES. 

You Deserve That. 
Enjoy.

P.S. To my readers of A Fresh Perspective: I am now posting from my Artistic Point of View on my website blog, Refresh Daily. You are welcome to subscribe to that one as well. I am posting content that is not being posted here on A Fresh Perspective. Here's a link to A False Start. 

© 2014 by Dawn Herring

Refreshment or Rejection?

Refreshment is a key component to my daily life. I know the deepest benefits and that's why I always remind folks to refresh themselves daily.

However, it's easy to let a day or two or many more slip by without re-invigorating ourselves in some way; but unfortunately we may experience the "side effects" of not doing so and, maybe, not even realize it.

Such was the case for me recently...

I was having a challenging morning, feeling a bit discouraged, a bit out of alignment and un-grounded. You know how I could tell?

I was feeling doubtful about some things. I was impatient, lacking faith in areas of great importance to me.

(Yes, this is an honest confession.)

I was really wondering what was going on with me; I don't like feeling or acting this way. It's very disconcerting, perplexing and distressing.

So I certainly did NOT want to stay there.
NO.

So I got my journal out and wrote my a.m. entry. After detailing my distress of those minutes I just described, I then switched to my non dominant hand and began to ask what went wrong.

What I wrote came as a complete but revelatory surprise to me.

I had not painted in about three days.

That was it.

You wouldn't think that putting pigment on a paint brush and applying it to watercolor paper or canvas would make that much of a difference, right?

But, here's the truth in a nutshell: I am an artist. It's a huge part of the core of my being. (I continued to journal just this truth when what was next came out in all of its profoundness...)

When I go one day without creating in some way, especially painting, which helps me activate my creative center and stay aligned with Who I Am, I am essentially Rejecting that Core Part of Myself.

Self Rejection!

This really woke me up.

It's easy to point a finger at another and say, this person has rejected me, and put the blame elsewhere.

But in reality, rejection from another is often a reflection of how we are rejecting ourselves and not even know it!

I realized with this revelation of self rejection when not taking the time DAILY to honor Who I Am as an artist, I also came to the conclusion that Daily Authentic Refreshment is even more Vitally Important than I initially realized, for as much as I remind folks to refresh daily.

I understood on an even deeper level what it looks like and feels like to not refresh yourself to nourish the core of your being.

Instead of simply saying to get your guilt free refreshment daily, now I'm saying, Don't reject that Core of Who You Are by letting a day go by without that essential nourishment that is so vitally important to your well being. That cannot be overstated.

I realize that now more than ever before.

So, guess what?
I have painted daily since then, whether in my art journal or on canvas/paper. I finished one painting and started another.

Yes, when I paint daily, not only do I nourish myself, I also get more artistic work accomplished, and have a splendid time doing it.

And it does make a major difference in how I feel: more aligned with Who I Am. I can hear that Intuitive Voice speaking ever so clearly: Go Paint. And I say, Okay, I will!

My painting gives me space to express what's in my heart; it gives me deeper understanding of what I'm feeling, thinking, saying and doing.

And you know what else I realized?

My journaling practice is a super powerful tool that gives me space to express how I feel and listen to my Intuitive Heart; but it's NOT ENOUGH to keep me nourished in the Core of my being.

Once you find what nourishes the Core of your being, do it daily. Whatever it takes. Even if it's just 5 minutes!

And if you don't know what that nourishing activity is just yet, you're welcome to check out my Your Life Refreshed! Creative Strategy Sessions so we can get on board with helping you find out just what that is!

No Rejection. Just Love, Care and Nourishment...ultimately so you can make a positive mark in your world.

© 2014 by Dawn Herring

Making Space

Do you have something in your life that you want to make room for?

We all have dreams or even small ideas that niggle at the back of our minds just waiting for space to be expressed, don't we?

So, what is holding us back?

Probably doubt.

But another issue that may be a tougher nut to crack is looking at how we are spending our time and determine activities that are the most time consuming, even if we happily engage in those activities. We have to determine if those activities can either be cut back on or eliminated all together to make space for what we really want.

My main "something" that I've been longing to spend more time on has been my ART. Over the past few years, as I've discovered the wonders of watercolor, I've wanted to engage with it all the more.

But so many responsibilities and activities have prevented me from doing so.
So recently, in my journal, I asked the question, what is holding me back from engaging in art more so, since this is the Heart of Who I Am. No second guessing that.

I touched on a few issues concerning doubts about my direction and other smaller things related to certain projects I have in mind. But I knew that wasn't the Core Issue. My main problem was where I was spending too much of my time.

So I got serious about looking more closely at my time-sucks.
Obviously my increasing duties where my skills are greatly needed in our Bill's Quality Electric, LLC electrical contracting company are of primary importance, which I already knew. So that wasn't the issue.

Soon I discovered what was the most time consuming, and why it was. So I decided that I needed to create more boundaries, determine what mattered most and greatly reduce what wasn't necessary. Of course, it hasn't been easy. Old habits die hard.

But every extra moment I've had in my studio as a result has been a great reward for reducing the other activity.

So, how do you reckon with making more space for your desired activity, perhaps an Authentic Refreshment?

You have to look honestly at what is sapping your time and energy and really determine what matters most.
What will you lose if you either limit the other activities or eliminate them altogether? Be totally honest here. Reckon with any illusions that may be causing you to think something negative could happen when, really, you  know it won't. You just think it will.

Once you have that figured out, set a do-able goal on how to make that change in time spent on that activity that isn't deserving as much time if any at all. Don't be afraid to let go of something if you think you'll really miss it. (Like emails that are begging to be deleted but you're hanging on to them just in case. I'm always surprised by the relief I feel when I hit that delete button; and I've never missed even one of those emails!)

There is a time and a season for everything; and sometimes what we used to spend vast amounts of time doing no longer feeds us like it used to. If it feels like it's sapping you instead of adding to you, you know it's time to make a change.

Once you start implementing the change, be gentle with yourself if you fall back to doing that activity too much again; just get back to the greatly desired activity that you really want to do, and you'll get into flow of Who You Are.

Remember, we are constantly changing. What worked for us before may not work for us now. The more we really listen to those changes and embrace what really keeps us centered and aligned with Who We Are, the happier, more peaceful and more energetic we'll be.

You have that idea or activity in mind for a reason; don't neglect what your soul really wants. Give it space to express itself. That positive change just might change your life!

© 2014 by Dawn Herring

Illusion

illusion (n) something that a person wrongly supposes to exist. A false belief about the nature of something.
pretend (v) to create a false appearance of something either in play or so as to deceive others.

We all remember what it was like when we were a child and had a desire to imitate life around us. Like pretending to cook in the kitchen or pretending you're superman with a cape on. Or writing in your diary thinking you'll be a grown-up writer someday.

What did you pretend to be when you were a child? Was it fun? Adventurous?
One of my favorite pretend activities was with my Barbie dolls; I would come up with all kinds of scenarios of what they would do and be. I also pretended to feed my doll bottled milk (you know the kind that disappeared when it was horizontal.) It was all so fun and felt grown up to do something I hoped to do one day. (Of course I had two daughters, so that did eventually happen!)

Pretending is a huge part of a child's imagination and an essential part of growing up. It's all good.

On the flip side of that whole typical picture is illusion.
I don't mean the kind that magicians carry out to make something look real when it isn't. That's all in good fun.

No, I mean the kind that speaks of things that we worry about. The kind of content that runs around in our brains when we're trying something new or when we're figuring something out or when we're determining what comes next in a relationship or conflict we are facing.

We don't often return to the childhood activity of play, even though we should; that's often where imagination takes on a decidedly authentic turn, showing us how to solve problems and determine which path to take when we are perplexed.

It comes naturally to kids to problem solve; they don't give up easily, especially if it's helping them do something they really want to do. Child's play is nothing to laugh at when it comes to it's effectiveness in helping us learn our way in the world.

So why do we resort to that worrying narrative that runs around in our heads, undermining our imagination and twisting it into anxious and fearful thoughts that are just that...anxious and fearful thoughts?

Where do they come from?

My guess is our subconscious minds are trying to solve our perplexities but it's not getting past the noise to the voice within. This happens when we don't choose to be deliberately mindful, choosing better thoughts as we recognize something we think about that isn't really true because it hasn't happened yet. I call those thoughts Illusion. Those thoughts, most of the time, cause anxiety. And when we give our energy to them, without even realizing that's what we're doing, it creates a sense of un-ease that is so unnecessary. It steals our peace and produces an unhealthy energy that saps us dry.

Let's get mindful! Let's get deliberate about the thoughts we choose to think. Let's record in our journals the thoughts that are troubling us so we can determine if they are based in truth (what we know for sure) or in Illusion (what hasn't happened). Let's use our imaginations to create a life that is authentic to Who We Are.

Just like children who do eventually grow up and become who they wanted to be. Maybe they really did become that artist, that writer, that astronaut, that Mom or Dad with their child in their arms.

And maybe you can be Who You Want To Be even now. Knowing Who You Are is the First Step toward directing your thoughts authentically and in a direction that is true and lovely and good.

We'll keep Illusion for the magicians who like to make things look real when they are not.
Know Your Truth and Live In It and Become Who You Want To Be. For Real.

© 2014 by Dawn Herring

THE FUN FACTOR

Did you have fun today?
I mean the kind where you laughed hysterically or experienced something that left you feeling refreshed and invigorated?

What do you think about when you hear the word: FUN?
Perhaps something you don't think you have time for?

Ah, that obligation dilemma always rears its undesirable head just when you're thinking about something FUN you want to do.

So, what is the definition of FUN?
How about this: Light Hearted Amusement. I like the sound of that. Light gives me the impression of not feeling the heaviness of things. Hearted means it brings delight to your heart so you feel good afterwards. And then there's the Amusement...that's where the laughing hysterically part comes in.

Have you ever noticed how good you feel after a thorough-from-the-belly-laugh? What makes YOU laugh like that? You need to inject some more into your daily existence. I know I do.

One of the things I've been doing on a daily basis to add more FUN to my day is a daily doodle (See Jani Frank's Unearth Ecourse at The Bubbling Well. In my opinion, I think Jani is hilarious and FUN; I often laugh out loud watching her videos.) Yes, Jani encourages a daily doodle for 7 days or as long as you decide to go with it. It really loosens up the expectations as an artist. You're just having FUN on the page instead of worrying about perfection.

So I thought about how I could incorporate this idea and decided that my daily Summary Word would be a great way to do so since it's every day. I have a journaling visual practice I use in the evening where I list all of the main events in my daily experience, and next to each one I put an X for something upsetting or annoying or a * for stuff that made me happy, excited or refreshed. And after doing this visual review, I determine what ONE WORD would appropriately summarize my day. Now instead of just writing it, I DOODLE it. And I am having FUN! It makes the whole expression so much more creative, intuitive and gives me an excuse to illustrate what that word really means to me. I look forward to this exercise even more now with my Daily Doodle. (Thanks, Jani, for the idea.)

Another way I have FUN in my day is, of course, with my art journal; I don't do this on a daily basis, but at least several times per week. (Maybe even 4 or 5 at this point.) I always enjoy my time in my art studio Playing and Exploring and Experimenting on the page. I love using watercolors, images (using image transfer technique sometimes), text either from newspaper or magazine or stamped text, and texture from using different items that create an interesting result on the page. I never have to ask myself if I'm having fun because I just DO.

Another area of life that injects FUN into my day is spending time with grandboy. His laughter, his smile, his adorable sense of humor, and his growing cognitive skills just make for a hilarious and interesting time. I especially enjoy looking at small plastic books with him. I usually end up singing a song to him or exaggerating words and sounds that always gets him giggling and laughing.

Another way I experience FUN in my life is through spontaneous time with my hubby. Whether it's shopping at the grocery store, going to book stores, taking a drive just because, or simply having terrific conversation, we have FUN together. (And we're celebrating 25 years of this.)

There are other activities I also enjoy, such a watching a funny movie, listening to musical auditions, perusing art journaling or collage related books and magazines, or watching something hilarious a friend posts on Facebook (this happens a LOT-Can you hear me laughing from here??).

One thing I would recommend you do to get more FUN vibes in your life is to write down one moment in your day where you laughed. You didn't have one? Well, then this Moment calls for Something that will.
Go! Do It! Then Laugh. Then you'll have something to write down. *Wink*

I give you permission to always include a FUN FACTOR in your day. Every. Single. Day.
You may notice you become more Aware of what makes you laugh and start pursuing it.
That's the idea! Yay! Go for it!

Then let me know. I'd love to hear about it. (And if you want to share how you have refreshed yourself with something FUN that helps you appreciate yourself for who you are, validates your emotions and feelings and nurtures your soul, please email me direct at journalwriter@sbcglobal.net.)

Did you have FUN reading this? I hope so. (I know I had FUN writing it!)
Now Go Make Some Fun Right Now. Really.  

Be refreshed!
© 2014 by Dawn Herring

A New Paradigm

We all have our routines filled with to dos, tasks, conversation, decision making, choices, relationships and expectations, either initiated by our own desires or someone else's. This all sounds like a pretty typical life. So we don't often make much change since we get used to the way things are.

But that's not necessarily a good thing.
Especially if we're feeling the stress of unmet expectations no matter the source, if we find ourselves tired and worn out from not pacing ourselves and if we find less joy and more discouragement in our overall emotional life experience.

We need to heed the warning signs of doing too much, saying too much, and not taking enough time to do what will invigorate, inspire and re-energize.

Thus we need a new paradigm. A new approach. A New Way of Doing Life.

How do we know what changes to make?

We have to base them on our values, what really matters to us most, what is priority over everything else.
That means saying no to things that we may see as valuable or at least reducing the amount of time we spend on them with no major consequence and at the same time, increase the amount of time of what we know is essential to our well being.

First of all, one of the best things I've ever done is choose to SLOW DOWN. Take it easy. Take Breaks. Don't push yourself too hard. And forgive yourself when you make mistakes. Life is full of them; we cannot expect perfection, just our best.

I have found that when I PACE myself, doing certain tasks at certain times, and then taking a break to relax, journal and do something that energizes me makes all the difference in the world for my over all well being. Don't let your life circumstances become so overwhelming that it's what you have to do. Pace yourself now so you're body will thank you later.

Another issue I've addressed: when I feel stress in a situation, I exit, going somewhere where I can regroup, center myself, and give myself space to release stress and relax, doing something I love to do, even if it's just being quiet for a time.

Speaking of Quiet, reducing your amount of conversation can actually enhance your well being. The less we say, sometimes, the better. Much of what we say, whether just in daily existence or in conversation with another, is full of unnecessary noise. How often do we find ourselves saying, "Why did I say that? I should have just kept my mouth shut." Exactly.

If you institute less talking (try writing down everything you want to say and you'll find yourself saying less automatically just because writing it down is such a pain), you will find more energy for doing things you want to do. It's also quieting for the soul. Less talk produces more quiet contemplation.

It can also help to keep a journal when you institute less talking so you can record what you're thinking and still feel "heard" in a way. At least your point of view still matters on paper. The point is that when you talk less, what you do say will have more power. They say your words carry energy; so when you use that energy to speak, really think about what you say before you say it. Be choosier with your speech. It may just change the way you think about everything.

These changes will take some getting used to since we're so used to being in a rush, talking too much, and doing too much every single day.

Make space for Quiet Contemplation. Connect with your Source Energy and find yourself more aligned with who you really are. With Quiet, Slowing Down, Pacing Yourself and Taking Time to do what you love, you will enter a whole new Paradigm and Way of Life that will increase the quality of your life experience and give you a greater sense of purpose in all you do, say, and think.

Do you need to Slow Down? Be More Quiet? Say Less and Do More of what you Love?
Start now before your body starts speaking for you in ways that are uncomfortable and unpleasant.

Listen carefully to your Higher Self, that place of Inner Wisdom and Intuition that will tell you what changes you can make to enter a New Paradigm for Living Authentic to Who You Really Are.

In the process, you'll also make the world a better place.
Have a Happy New Year and Happy New Life.

&#169 2014 by Dawn Herring

My Year 2013: A Rewind

As I did last year, I wanted to do a bit of review of my year in 2013, to celebrate, share and consider what I've learned and accomplished, with the hope of making a meaningful mark in my world.

What I share in this post reflects my life as a journal keeper, an artist, host of #JournalChat Live, as writer, as a grandma, as a refreshment specialist, as a researcher, as an author, and as a newsletter creator.

As you can see, my life is very layered, multi-dimensional and rich! For that I am grateful.

So, without further ado, (drum roll, please! ;)) my life in 2013!

I shall begin with my life as a journal keeper:
I continue to enjoy engaging with my written journal, usually recording entries in the a.m. and p.m. and others when the situation calls for it. But starting in November, I began to take more breaks in my day and record in my journal three or four times per day, which has given me an even deeper clarity and insight into what I'm experiencing, thinking about, and determining needs to be done, especially with creating positive change--always vitally important! My journal gives me space to pay close attention to my intuition, my inner wisdom and to the divine spark given to me by the Creator.

I continue to use my dominant and non-dominant hand approach to my entries, activating both sides of the brain for a more holistic, logical and creative result. My journaling exercise, using Xs for negatives and * for positives, continues to give me visual clues for where I need more balance (key word here!). I also add a summary word that tells my day succinctly; that really gets me thinking in the big picture. Just a few months ago, I started using colored markers to write my entries, and I've written so much, that I need a new set already! Also, I even did a little of backwards writing as the suggestion of a friend (Thanks, Suzanna!) on #JournalChat. It takes a lot of concentration so I don't do that every day. It has also been fun to incorporate some other ideas I've gleaned from my reading and chatting on #JournalChat this year; that's always fun!

Now to my Authentic Refreshment with Art Journaling:
In January, it will be three years that I've kept an art journal; I am truly hooked!! I love using watercolors, oil pastels, crayon, tissue paper (for texture), colored paper (for collage), and rubber stamps to create messages as well as letters cut from magazines. In the latter half of this year, I've been experimenting with image transfers, getting the hang of working with gel mediums and creating layers on the page. Some of it has been a challenge, but I'm getting better and loving the process.

I always have so much fun going through magazines to pull images, text and color to work into my collages, my paintings and my pages. I love designing and combining different techniques to create fun works of art from the heart.

Also as a fine artist in watercolor, I did my first replicating rendering, using the stipple method, of a mocking bird, my adored bird you will find on my website, who delights my heart with his song and dance. It was such a delight to paint "In Your Element" considering my love for watercolor and for the mocking bird itself. I also continue to do intuitive paintings from my imagination and heart.

As an artist, I am absolutely delighted to have my Dawn Herring Collection Art Gallery available on my website, a long held dream of mine. It contains a page of my fine art paintings as well as my mixed media and watercolor bookmarks and message cards which are available for order! I love designing empowering message cards with favorite colors as reminders of who we really are and how we can make our meaningful mark in the world!

My whole website, Refresh with Dawn Herring, has been fully refreshed this year, featuring my empowering products and services, information about #JournalChat Live and Links Edition along with journaling prompts and resources for all things journaling that I've compiled from my reading and posting as host of #JournalChat Live on Twitter. There's a place to sign up for my now monthly Refresh Journal, which contains #JournalChat information, refreshing tips, music, and so much more, and to purchase my book, The Birthday Wall: Create a Collage to Celebrate Your Child, which had its one year anniversary of publication in March. My daughter, Sarah, shared her point of view on The Birthday Wall this year.

As Host of #JournalChat Live, I reached my two year anniversary in June with the structure of a weekly chat with new topic based on the journaling resource I choose for #JournalChat Pick of the Week. I even wrote a blog post covering all the resources and topics we covered for 2013 as a big THANK YOU for those who authored them and to those who participated. One big change that occurred back on October was the switch from Thursday afternoons to Sunday afternoons to hold the live chat on Twitter. And this month, another big change is being implemented in 2014, with #JournalChat Live being held the first Sunday of each month. Plus I've changed what was Pick of the Day to Dawn's #JournalChat Favorite and what was once Pick of the Week to Dawn's #JournalChat Choice to reflect those changes to once per month. I'm excited about these changes which I explain from the heart.

#JournalChat Live continues to be a source of fun, inspiration and ideas for journal keeping enthusiasts and we've had a lot of insightful conversation and support for our journaling community. Come join us the first Sunday of each month at 4 EST/1 PST on Twitter using the #JournalChat Hashtag in your tweet!

One of my good friends, Nathan Ohren of Write4Life, who has been a special guest on #JournalChat Live as well as an active contributor to our chats, interviewed me on his #JournalTalk podcast which was fun, interesting and fun! (When you listen, bear in mind that the time and day of #JournalChat Live is now on first Sunday of each month.) One of my favorite things about Nathan's approach to his podcast and his work in the world is his sense of humor (plus his heart). He has been a true supporter of my work with the live chat as well as my life as artist and refreshment enthusiast. It was a pleasure to work with him and to chat with him on #JournalChat Live. His podcasts with journaling experts are well worth listening to; I was glad to be a part of his series.

As a Refreshment Specialist, I've engaged in some refreshment research and have started a new blog called Your Authentic Refreshment, showcasing interviews with folks who engage in authentic refreshment which is something to help you appreciate yourself for who you are, validate your emotions and feelings and nurture your soul. Also new are my Refresh Sessions which I provide to work with people privately to help them discover what will refresh them and help them gain a fresh perspective in all of life's dimensions, thus loving themselves from the inside out and living empowered lives as a result!

As a writer, I have published several guests posts this year focused on journaling and refreshment on the websites/blogs of Kathleen Pooler, Karen Horneffer-Ginter, and in Outlet Magazine. I also continue to post on my Refresh with Dawn Herring blog (that you're reading now!) about once per month in addition to the content for Refresh Journal. I also have several longer works in progress, with one I hope to share in 2014.

As a grandma, I am deighted to say that my grandboy turned two! He is such a delight, always making Grandma smile and laugh with his chatter, his personality, and his love, always looking for hugs which I gladly give. We have so much fun together building with blocks, talking to his stuffed animals, doing sock puppets, and talking on the "phone." I just love to teach him all kinds of things, tell him stories, and just be plain silly to make him laugh. And Boy Does He Laugh! :D

When I look back on all of this good stuff, it really makes me want to do a happy dance; won't you dance with me?

My 2013 has been full, rich, insightful, and creative in many aspects and I look forward to what 2014 will hold.

My desire is to encourage folks to refresh themselves daily, keep a journal to record their special story for all posterity, and to love themselves heartily from the inside out.

I hope you will join me in this wild, wonderful journey; lets keep in touch in 2014!

© 2013 by Dawn Herring

It's About Time

You know how some folks pick a meaningful word at the start of a new year to create a specific focus?
Well, for 2013 my focus word was TIME.

Yes, time in all of its dimensions, meanings, uses, approaches and struggles.

I used time as a meaningful visual and textual dimension in my art journaling pages and journaled about time and its facets and how I wanted to make meaningful changes concerning time and its effects in my life.

When I think about time, often the issue that arises is not having enough time to do the things I love.
So I was determined to make more space for my artistic pursuits.

I moved my art studio from a bedroom with a door to the center of the house off the kitchen area. I knew this move would initiate more time at the creative table since it was more convenient and available to me. I could paint, create texture, stamp messages, collage, and paint some more in between making dinner in the kitchen, doing business on the computer and doing chores/housework.

I have spent more time pursuing my love of art journaling, mixed media and watercolor fine art. The samples of my work on my art gallery are evidence of the time I have set aside for it. Really, I have incorporated art into the fabric of my life which makes it more seamless, like it's simply what I do. It's priority--for my heart, my soul, my mind.

I also considered the time I spent on writing projects. I actually cut out several of them in late January since I felt I had written myself into a box and felt there was too much of it every day. So I stopped. I still kept my journals but I let go of those projects not concerning myself over if and when I'd get back to them. Sometimes it's just necessary to take a breather and regroup.

This time pause with writing projects lasted about two months. I was very much aware of what I was not doing in order to do less in my day, giving myself space. And I knew when it was time to get back to it. And it felt right, like I wanted to continue on with what I started. And I enjoyed the break I gave myself.

I also determined to change my approach and structure so it was more in the flow of who I am. It's amazing how we will create a structure that becomes binding when we don't have to or need to. Sometimes a small change can make all the difference in our energy and enthusiasm for what is important to us.

Another issue I addressed with time was thinking that very little time had passed when I started something new or was referencing an event or decision I made previously; it amazed me when I discovered that those time spans were much longer than I thought they were. (That's what makes journaling life experiences so wonderful for those of us who don't remember how long it's been!)

Something I chose to do three years ago only felt like 18 months to me.

When you realize the longer time span, you have to regroup and gain a fresh understanding of how that decision you made affected you with that longer distance separating you from that time long ago. It truly gave me pause, and I excused myself, in a sense, of not remembering. Although I do find it frustrating at times, like I'm totally out of the loop on when I started doing something, I realize it's okay not to remember.

Another issue of time I addressed was in relation to what I wanted to accomplish; there are some things that take longer to build or create; and it takes consistent action and persistence not to give up when things don't go in the timely way you desire.

For instance, it would take me several months to get a painting done instead of several days or weeks. Or I intended to post on my blog every few weeks and, instead, five or six would go by, and I wouldn't realize it. (I am now more mindful of this with my focus on Time.)

Then there's the issue of time passing and everyone getting older. Whether it's my parents in their 70s, my spouse in his 50s, my grandboy turning two (and not being so lap-interested like he once was) or having two grown daughters. My own age also comes to mind with keeping myself strong and healthy with a special focus on my spiritual, emotional and physical well being. (This I also address in my art and written journals.)

I want to be a good steward of my time, talents, gifts and roles I fill in my life; and knowing I won't be here forever keeps me motivated to stay true to who I am, to pursue what makes my heart grow, and to love fully.

This year, 2013, has been full of challenges, choices, decisions, determinations, boundaries, expansiveness and growth as I look at how my new perspectives and meaning of time has affected my roles as a wife, mother, grandma, journal keeper, artist, writer and host of #JournalChat Live. As a result, I now have an even stronger sense of purpose to help me make the most meaningful mark in the world that I can.

Ultimately, it really is about time.

&#169 2013 by Dawn Herring

Only What Gives You Joy

I was writing in my journal recently in the a.m. and asked a question about using my energy to line up with Who I Really Am and what actions I can take toward that end.                                                              

Instead of conforming to what I think it might look like, or what I should be doing, or being similar to what others are doing, I need to go with that flow that comes from my core essence. 

As I dissected this further, a notation of what types of activities would get me nailing my bulls-eye, I got the instruction: do only what gives you joy. 

Wow. This felt like an epiphany to me. 

Yes, I know my focus often resides on refreshment and doing things that enliven you, so it really should come as no surprise to me.

But, yet, it really struck me when I saw the word: JOY. 

JOY is an indescribable feeling that comes from the core of your being, from within.

You feel it when you are actively engaged in something or with someone that is in true alignment with who you really are. 

When the purpose of what you are doing is simply because you want to; not because you have to or feel obligated to. 

After I wrote this entry, I went into my art studio and gazed at my current art journal two-page spread and I immediately felt JOY come up. Like I was looking forward to working/playing with it. 

So this JOY idea really gave me pause. 

I started to think about what really gives me JOY and what doesn't...

Now I realize that we can't practically only choose to do things that bring us joy. There are things we must do to keep living that aren't necessarily fun and joyful; but our attitude can make all the difference in that arena. 

But when I think about how I spend my time aside from those other duties, and even the choices I make as a writer, an artist, a host, a social media marketer, or simply as a woman, mom, wife, grandma, friend, then JOY brings a whole new dimension. 

JOY can teach me what is really true, authentic, interesting, a natural draw for me.

JOY can show me what life experiences open my heart, such as:

Talking about refreshment, positive change and what truly enlivens you.

Sharing inner wisdom that resonates and gives food for thought.

Watching someone share their vocal abilities when they don’t even know they have it and being told they do. (I get so inspired by the surprise element that comes with such a life experience.)

Recording something I observed about my grandboy’s learning, imagination and personality that is new and spending time talking to him and playing with him…JOY unbounded!

Trying a new technique in my art journal that turns out better than I thought it would and what I immediately learn multi-dimensionally from that hands-on experience. Creative JOY.

Enjoying quality time with hubby where we share from our hearts and laugh a lot because we always have so much fun together….yes, JOY indeed.

Watching my eldest daughter with her son as they play word games together and he responds with great interest and laughs out loud as she gets silly. JOY bubbling up.

Seeing my youngest daughter get excited over something that truly lights her creative fire. JOY resonating.

Yes, there are many sources of JOY in my life; and I love recording every one of them.

And to use JOY as my barometer for decision making and determining my course is an awesome understanding that I will delve into even further in the coming days.

What would you do, how would you choose your course, your activities if JOY was your barometer, your determining factor to your life experience? What would that look like for you?

The actual definition of JOY is a deep emotion of pleasure, gladness and a thing that causes delight.

Who doesn’t want more of that?

I’ve got the joy down in my heart.

How about you?