What I Did Over Winter Break

So it's back to work today.  After a couple weeks away I feel completely and utterly inspired.

I'm not one to just sit around, so the time was incredibly well spent.  Starting with a visit to the Like the Spice Gallery in Wililamsburg for the It's A Small World show.  As mentioned before, my friend Abby was showcasing her menagerie of animal hybrids.  I've seen them on her site and in photographs, but on display they're amazing.  Her die-cast rings were also available and I don't know what was more impressive, the rings themselves or their displays. 

My friend Chris Frederick was also in attendance.  He's continuing to work on his film.  Right now, he's offering a unique opportunity for people to become a part of the film by making a donation through the non-profit organization Fractured Altas.

The gallery event was followed by dinner with my former roommates Lauren and Clara.

Years ago, I met Clara and then Lauren through Craigslist.  We each needed roommates, that was all we knew when we first met.  Something in the cosmic cards must have aligned correctly.  When I met the lovely ladies, I was at a vulnerable period in my life ... just starting to get my life together.  The fun, nurturing environment we fostered in our apartment, "the bottom bell" (so named for the location of the buzzer) or "house of healing" (so named for the welcoming and nurturing environment), became a real sanctuary.  When the time came and we all were ready to leave the nest, we did so with amazing strength and support.

I've been thinking back to those days, the bottom bell days, during which I was completely content no matter what was going on in my life.  I've been reaching back to the person who felt so secure and was so creative constantly.  It's funny how a few trials and tribulations can move you from center.

Robert was home for a week, so we were able to spend some actual quality time together as well as address the needs of our apartment.  Suddenly my space seems workable again. 

In all of my rush to get my business going, it's really important to remember the other aspects of your life. I've said it before, but perhaps it needs to be repeated like a mantra.  A night out on the town, a night out dancing, a great movie (review coming soon) can really have a lifting affect.

As well as saying yes to the world, in 2009 I'm going to experience as much as I possibly can.  I'm going to reach out as much as I can.  I'm surrounded by so many amazing people.  Seeing myself through their eyes is just about the most inspirational thing I can find.