Sarah Shearer

Good Stuff

2012-01-12T17:25:00.000-06:00

As I think about blogging and wanting catch up on here all the things that have been going on in my life- I don't know where to start! There have been some really, really wonderful times in the last several months and I really, really want to share them- as well as express gratitude for who and what I have in my life.

I considered going chronologically starting where I really left off- mid October. Instead I'm going to blog "back to front"; I'm starting with the recent weeks and blogging my way back in time.

Today I start with the end of 2011, beginning of 2012. As the years go on, I'm appreciating Christmas more. Perhaps because I 'm fortunate to work in an environment now where we are off for holidays- that might have a little something to do with it! This Christmas season, I got full -on festive. That includes Christmas parties, family visits, even a performance of the Nutcracker at the Nashville Ballet (see above photo with two of my lovely friends, Mardie and Cristina).

This sweet photo is of my oldest brother, Aaron, and his growing family. We did a post- Christmas visit in Nashville- breakfast at Pancake Pantry!

These are some Christmas eve moments captured in east Tennessee with my folks. Aren't they cute?!

And this, this is New Year's Eve!!!YES. I enjoyed a show by the Guilty Pleasures with a great group of buddies including the stunning Miss Amy, who truly will travel a new road of her life in 2012 as she marries her new FIANCE! Congratulations Rod and Amy!

Last, but far from least, we celebrated Blake's 6th birthday! WOW. As I went back through recent photo albums choosing images to post here I just have to say- I am blessed! I am surrounded by more than my fair share of love and goodness! By some standards I may have a simple life, but it is true and real and wonderful to me.

A Very Happy 2012 To You!

2012-01-04T23:08:00.001-06:00

I hope 2011 came to a good close for everyone. Even though I'm a couple days late on this, I want to say Happy New Year!

Really, what's a couple days when you've missed a couple months? That's right, MONTHS. No posts since the end of October! Holy moly. I 've just been busy, but good- busy. Nothing earth shattering or record breaking, I was just doing the things that make me happy to be alive. And not blogging, apparently.

As I've mentioned before, I FREAKING LOVE NEW YEAR'S EVE. It's one of my favorite holidays. I love a good group countdown at midnight. I love fireworks and revelry. I love that on New Year's Eve 12 years ago on a mountain in North Carolina, this amazing man asked me to marry him. I love him so much.

"New Year's eve is like every other night; there is no pause in the march of the universe, no breathless moment of silence among created things that the passage of another twelve months may be noted; and yet no man has quite the same thoughts this evening that come with the coming of darkness on other nights."~Hamilton Wright Mabie

How Much Difference Does It Make

2011-10-24T16:38:00.002-05:00

PBS aired Cameron Crowe's new documentary, Pearl Jam Twenty, over the weekend. As someone who "grew up" with their music in high school I totally enjoyed the video footage of their early performances, interviews with the seemingly personable band members, and an update about what they've been up to in recent years.

To me, the first half of the movie was the best part. The second half jumps around a bit, and doesn't go into much depth about what has really influenced where they're at now. I wish their had been interviews with close friends, wives, or family. I wish difficult questions had been asked. Are they still friends? Do they still make music together? When they made Vitalogy and started to implode as a band, what kept them from breaking up? Do they feel like they will now that Vedder is pursuing a solo project? I'm sure Cameron Crowe is dying to know what I think of his film, so will you pass this on to him if you have a chance? Great. Thanks.

So, Pearl Jam. I heart them. I heart them for wanting to make a difference and for being passionate about their work.
Here are a few comments from documentary interview footage that particularly interested me, for whatever reason:

"a real person, not a person trying to sound like another person"- on hearing Vedder's vocals.

"[we were] strangers coming from a similar place"- on Vedder joining the rest of the band, who were already friends.

"maybe talking about the dark parts of my life brings me happiness"-on why their music had an edge of "darkness", and would it ever be "happier".

"a grammy. what does it mean? you get an award for art?that's ridiculous!"-on being awarded a grammy, obv.

Also, who doesn't love a good plaid flannel shirt? No one, that's who. Get on your favorite flannel, crank up some rock & roll, and next time your friends are standing around in a group try diving into them!

Run Chicago!

2011-10-14T11:26:00.002-05:00

Myself, my awesome Chicago Marathon training group, and our friends and families carbed up at the Tuscany on Saturday evening before the race. Wow. It was SOOO good. I may have overdone it though, with the bread. Chalk that up to things to remember for next time. If there is a "next time"- talk to me several months from now about that!

Post dinner Jon, Seth (my youngest brother), and I returned to Seth's apartment in Lakeview. The day felt a bit hectic: flying in, navigating our way into downtown and to the expo, picking up my race packet, dropping off our luggage, and then rushing to little Italy to join the crew at Tuscany. Another thing to remember for "next time"- don't exhaust yourself the day before running 26.2 miles.

Saturday evening, I laid out my gear, set the alarm for 4:45 a.m., and went to bed (a bit later than I should have). Sunday morning came so fast! I got out of bed, got dressed and prepped, had my usual morning routine (2 cups of coffee and a protein bar) and headed to the train.

It took me a bit longer to get downtown than I anticipated so I was late to meet up with everyone at a hotel near the start. Here we are (photo above), bright, shiny, nervous, ready to go! We began the short walk down to the starting area as the sun was rising above the lake. Temps were in the 60's, very comfortable.We checked our bags (to have dry shirts, flip flops, etc at the finish), made last minute bathroom stops, and got in the corral.

A handful of us started the race together, but split up pretty early on so we could run at our own paces. I planned for a finish time of 4 hours and 30 minutes, which I thought was generous and would be no problem. HAHAHAHAHA. My finishing time was 4:45:39. And that took everything I had.

Here I am after the finish, about to reunite with everyone. What an epic feeling of accomplishment and relief! But, let me tell you more about what happened prior to this moment:
The first 10 or so miles were lovely. We ran along the beautiful lakeshore, and Jon and Seth came out and cheered for me at mile 7 and 8. There were lots of crazy fun "cheerleaders" along this part: great costumes, music blasting, plenty to look at. Seth also jumped in and ran about a mile with me here.
The next 6 miles or so began to decline in loveliness. I think I got a little bored, at this point I was running alone. The crowds were a little calmer, and I didn't feel their energy as much. Or maybe I just zoned out. Not sure.
The next 4 miles or so got a little better because a sweet girl by the name of Jenny Magill ran into me. She is an East Nasty who now lives in Chicago, and decided to run the marathon. She is an incredible runner: fast, ultra-marathoner, experienced, and super motivating to run with. She really supported and talked me through some tough miles, even though I was running a pace minutes slower than I know she would've done on her own. THANK YOU!
The next 6 miles got really hot. At this point we are headed back into downtown, no more shaded neighborhood streets, and the midday sun is beating down. I walked through every fluid stop, drinking a bit of gatorade and of bit of water. I took salt tablets, too, and never cramped up. At this point though, my legs just felt heavy. Heavy and so tired. Maybe I should have had caffeine at some point midway through the race. I took my shirt off because of the heat. I hate running hot and wearing extra layers. In retrospect, I question that decision becuase now in all my end of race photos I notice the flab around my waist and how I look like I might pass out on the street. Oh well! The last couple miles Seth, Cristina, and Nicole jump in and run with me. What angels they are. Their pride and belief in me carried me through the most miserable part.
The last .2. Wow. What a mix of very intense emotions. I want to stop. I wonder why I chose to do this. I wrote my name on my race bib; total strangers yell my name and words of encouragement. Thousands of people are watching, I can't show weakness now. I see the finish line, and grandstands full of spectators on either side. I know elite runners have crossed this line and broken records. I know tens of thousands like me will cross it today and break their own records- not just of running, but of what they ever believed they were capable of. I'm getting chills just typing this out.

The post 26.2. Jon and Seth met me, and got me to our group of friends. I was glad to regroup, but also just wanted to go home and lay down! We walked a couple blocks to the red line and rode back to Seth's apartment on the north side of town. I have never been so happy to take an ice bath in my life- odd as it sounds, it felt great. So did a shower and some dry clothes. Next, I hobbled to Joy's noodles and had the best Thai curry ever!

I spent the next several days walk /hobbling about Chicago. Sore muscles, aching knees, and a bit of chafing were the worst I was left with. It's been 5 days, and I think I'm back to normal now! Will I do it again? Maybe I'll decide that after I can't remember anymore how terribly painful those last several miles were!

Hillsboro Village October Art Walk

2011-10-07T09:48:00.000-05:00

These are 8" x 10" ink & watercolor on paper, $40. If you're interested having a meerkat to call your own, just let me know!

The Hillsboro Village Oktoberfest Art Walk last night was lovely. Bosco's Brewing Company & Restaurant invited me to be their featured artist for the event. Bosco's got very festive for the evening, and even brought in a band!

I'm ready for the weekend now; in the morning I'll be on a plane to Chicago and I'm already bursting with excitement! There will be plenty of awesomeness happening around Nashville though, too. It's still "Artober" which means a full calendar of creative events. Last weekend I worked with an Artober event, the Handmade & Bound Nashville Book Arts festival, welcoming families and encouraging kids of all ages to to get there hands dirty with sidewalk chalk.

Here's to another wonder- full weekend!

Before and...

2011-10-05T23:25:00.003-05:00

Only 80. 5 hours till my first marathon- Chicago. Not that I'm anxious or anything. I think I 'm ready, ready as I can be. I've trained well and planned for what I can. Now it just depends on last minute variables like weather (forecast is a little warm, but no rain!), the night before (nutrition and rest), and my knee (which is again sore).
We leave for Chicago on Saturday morning. The race is Sunday morning. If you think of it, say a prayer for me! I'll give you a run down next week (pun intended)! In it, I might even include before and after race shots inspired by Sacha Goldberger's "Before and After Shots of Joggers" project.
What do you think of his project?
What do you think of my desire to run 26.2 miles throughout the windy city?

Maybe it relates to this sentiment? Ha!

images courtesy of pinterest

Art Slash Oktoberfest on Thursday!

2011-10-03T10:39:00.004-05:00

I 've been experimenting with new little projects lately. This one began with a sheet of watercolor paper, liquid watercolors, and feathers on my mind.

Undiluted liquid watercolors produce very intense, brilliant color. After dripping them on a sheet of water color paper and letting it dry, I cut out multiple feather shapes. Using a fine point black sharpie, I added detail work to each of them.

After letting paint and ink dry thoroughly I attached, with glue, each feather to it's own 5" x 7" archival card.

The finished cards are blank inside, and also fit a standard size frame.Give your loved one a card with a sweet message while also giving them the gift of art! These are only $10 and will be available at my table in the Hillsboro Village Art Walk this Thursday, October 6, from 5- 8pm.

AND, the entire month of October is overflowing with creative events like the Hillsboro Village Art Walk, many thanks to Metro Nashville Arts Commission partnering with dozens of arts and cultural organizations to host the first annual "Artober". Many special art events throughout Nashville during the month of October are occurring, highlighting the depth and breadth of arts activities middle Tennessee has to offer! Check HERE for a full listing of events.

Weekstart

2011-09-26T10:19:00.002-05:00

image courtesy pinterest

Happy Monday! How was your weekend? Mine was pretty good, thanks for asking. It kinda seemed like it had a "blast from the past" feel, because Saturday involving a rollerskating party at the local rink and Sunday Jon and I had a putt-putt, arcade, go-kart date. All things I haven't done since the 80's/90's- it was great!
However, I didn't get much done around the house or in the studio. Serendipitously, I just came across this article. It's all about that feeling of needing a weekend to catch up from your weekend! Here's an excerpt:

When the weekend rolls around, my expectations are that I can draw energy from alone time, spend tons of time with friends, exercise, catch up on sleep, go to church, work on chores, work on creative pursuits and catch up on email all in the same weekend.

Although this is all possible to do in one weekend, when I place unreasonable expectations on any chunk of time, my energy is divided and I’m left defeated and wanting by Monday morning.

Check out the full article by Nate Baker HERE.

Rilke & Petah Coyne

2011-09-23T13:17:00.001-05:00

Everything that has been wrestled from doubt
I welcome--the mouths that burst open after
long knowledge of what it is to be mute.

Do we know this, my friends, or don't we know this?
Both are formed by the hesitant hour
in the deep calm of the human face.
Rilke

Art work by Petah Coyne.
Beautiful words and beautiful work.

Octoberfest Art Walk!

2011-09-21T11:59:00.000-05:00

I'm preparing new pieces for the next Hillsboro Village Art Walk. I'll have a booth set up in front of Boscos from 5-8pm on Thursday Oct 6. Come out- enjoy Octoberfest and art in the Village!
I'll have brand new small sketches and illustration-style paintings of a whole zoo of animals, with prices ranging from $20 -$75.

Vadis Turner

2011-09-15T14:20:00.001-05:00

Vadis Turner is a Nashville native, now living and working in NYC. She maintains ties with Nashville though- following the severe floods of May 2010, Turner collaborated with other Nashville artists to create a picture book, "Nashville Counts" whose proceeds went to Hands on Nashville to support their volunteer efforts. Read more about it HERE.
Most recently, Turner's work has returned to Nashville with an exhibition of her work at the Rymer Gallery. I LOVE it. She works in various combinations of materials, but the Rymer exhibition focuses on her ribbon paintings. "Her work is well known for the exquisite and fragile balance between mixed media, color theory, abstract expressionism, and feminism. These themes are very dear to Vadis, whose main focus interest is women's work and gender roles.", says David Gargiulo in a Vestal magazine feature on the artist. Vadis
says of her work, "In my compositions, I like for there to be a tension between beauty and darkness." I think that is very evident in all her bodies of work.I can't wait to see what she does next!

"I keep my eyes and mind open to everything because all types of design and art are in constant conversation with each other." ~ Vadis Turner

Art Crawl, Art Crawl, ART CRAWL!

2011-09-04T21:03:00.002-05:00

This past week, 3 separate middle TN "art crawl" events lined up in succession to form a fantastical art-filled weekend. The Hillsboro Village Art Walk kicked it all off on Thursday evening. Next, Franklin held their very FIRST art crawl on Friday night. Last, a tip- top Downtown Art Crawl bubbled out into Nashville's downtown art's district on Saturday evening.
Each event had a distinct vibe. Hillsboro Village is nice and low-key: an unpretentious creative mixed- bag. Franklin was worth the trip! I don't know how long it will stay this way, but since it is brand new there was a lot of excitement going around, and the effort the participating places had put into it was obvious. And enjoyable. I didn't feel cramped for space, the art was good, and everywhere I went I was regaled with delicious food and wine! However, nothing tops a downtown art crawl and this was indeed a respectable one. Downtown Presbyterian featured the annual children's art show, which I was happily involved with, albeit in a minor way. I got to "decorate" the 5th Ave entrance- see pics below!

Marriedwomanshearer.com

2011-09-02T13:51:00.001-05:00

It's an art crawl-tastic weekend in middle TN- last night, Hillsboro Village Art Walk; tonight Franklin Art Crawl; and tomorrow Downtown Art Crawl. Downtown Art Crawl will always be my fave, and this time around I 'm looking forward to participating as a volunteer at Downtown Presbyterian Church helping with their children's art show. They do some super cool stuff with kid's art that you 'll probably want to try and do yourself! Come out!

I'm also currently in the midst of updating (and hopefully improving) my blog. I looked into switching my domain name to sarahshearer.com, and losing the "blogspot" part of the address. Well, that name is already taken, but I'd like you to see some of the suggestions I was offered. Although I 'm giving "marriedwomanshearer.com/net" and "sarahdancer.com/net" some serious consideration, your suggestions are welcome, too!

Choose a domain name (step 1 of 3)

You need a domain name to use Google Apps. A domain name is a unique name that will be assigned to your Google services. For example, if you choose example.com, you can create an email address for john.smith@example.com and web pages at buy.example.com. You can also sign up with a subdomain, such as sales.example.com, to create an email address for jane.doe@sales.example.com.

Fall Window Install

2011-09-02T12:10:00.001-05:00

Here are some pics of the fall window display project I created for Rodney Mitchell's Hillsboro Village salon in the heart of Nashville.
My sweet friend and excellent photographer, Cristina Young, photographed the process as you may have noticed in this previous post. I love the perspective she brought, and am flattered that she even featured me on her website ! Cristina works hard to get awesome shots of her subjects; if you need new images for your portfolio, pics for your website, or photos of your event (music, art, personal,etc), she is the go- to girl! Contact Cristina Young at 615.955.0465 or visit her website for more info www.cristinayoungphotography.com.

Nail Art!

2011-08-31T14:09:00.000-05:00

Why not?

It's pretty difficult for me to do both hands with the same amount of precision, being right handed. This is my left hand, which turned out quite a bit better than the right!

Think nail art is tacky/cheesy? Wait till you see what kind of designs this little lady comes up with:

Juliana Horner and her blog of ultimate coolness will inspire you!

This is image is my absolute favorite of nail art ideas I 'd like to try on myself for fall.

So perfect. Not that I could get it quite that precise, but I love it enough to give it a shot!

In other art related news: Franklin now has an art crawl. It's centered around downtown, but also includes artists studios and galleries in the Factory. I'm looking forward to exploring their first event this Friday, with my sister-in-law and fellow artist, Missi. Checkout Franklin Art Scene's website HERE for more info.

Press Release and a Sneak Peek!

2011-08-29T14:24:00.003-05:00

**Scroll down to the block highlighted in pink for bulletin on my work, and bottom of page for more images of work in progress!**

PRESS RELEASE:

HILLSBORO VILLAGE ART WALK

Thursday – September 1st, public invited, 5 – 8 pm

Village Art Walk receptions, shows and events are hosted in most Hillsboro Village shops and restaurants. This is a year round event that provides changing movies, music, artists, demonstrations, book signings and much more.

Free Parking after 6 pm behind Cornerstone Financial and on 21^st Avenue

Address: 21^st Avenue South in Hillsboro Village @ Belcourt Avenue

Phone: Info: Duncan Ragsdale 615.352-4891

Email: Hillsborovillageevents@gmail.com

Facebook link:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hillsboro-Village-Events/393145595224?ref=ts

Shop of the Month ~ Belcourt Theater

For over 75 years, The Belcourt Theatre has provided a space for premiere entertainment in the heart of Nashville's Hillsboro Village. During this time, The Belcourt has existed in many incarnations - each of which has furnished a home for some of the city's best and most unusual performing arts. http://www.belcourt.org/venue

Join us for a wine & cheese reception in the lobby. Here is what will be playing:

SENNA Dir. Asif Kapadia, UK, 2011, 104min, NR, 35mm In the mid 1980s, Ayrton Senna, a young, gifted driver, exploded onto the world of Formula One racing. As a Brazilian in a predominantly European sport, a purist in a world polluted with backroom deals, and a man of faith in an arena filled with cynicism, Senna had to fight hard—both on and off the track. Facing titanic struggles, he conquered Formula One and became a global icon who was idolized in his home country. Told solely through the use of archival footage, Asif Kapadia’s documentary is a thrill ride worthy of its daring subject

TERRI Dir. Azazel Jacobs, USA, 2011, 105min, 35mm http://terri-movie.com/ John C. Reilly plays an assistant high school principal (!!) with a soft spot for his school outcasts. His newest recruit is Terri (impressively played with oafish detachment by newcomer Jacob Wysocki), an overweight kid who looks out for his aging pilled-out uncle (Creed Bratton) with more attentiveness than he can muster to get out of his pajamas for school. Through his sessions with Reilly's character, Terri befriends two other fellow outcasts, an abrasive goth-like weirdo and a pretty blonde who may be turning into the class ho.

Raffle give-away basket that includes:

· Belcourt Screenwriter membership

· 2 tickets to the nD Festival Fashion Show

· Belcourt t-shirt

· Belcourt hat

· Belcourt cup (gets $1 refill in the theatre)

· Date night package to include 2 tickets to a regularly scheduled Belcourt programmed film, 2 drinks & a large popcorn

TOTAL value: $275+

These 3 guys will be in front of The Pancake Pantry:

1) Team Power Chics will be there in full regalia. They do the five-mile walk every year for the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” Walk in October, which will be on 10/15 this year. “I have been a “Pacesetter” for the past six years, and hopefully this will be my 7^th! Pacesetters raise at least $2000 on their own. Over the past 8 years that I have done this, I have raised over $18,000 by myself, and obviously I am very proud of that! I am even in the official ACS video for this event! As you can see, we make quite the fashion statement. This year we will have 15 walkers on the team.” – Colleen Cussick. Check it out: http://youtu.be/EwDhJvFzkzI

2) NASHVILLE ROLLERGIRLS - Skater owned and operated, the Nashville Rollergirls is a non-profit organization whose mission is not only to bring an exciting team sport to the city, but also to contribute to the community by supporting local charities and participating in community service events. The last Nashville Rollergirls doubleheader of the 2011 season is Saturday 9/10 at Municipal Auditorium.

3) Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee will have a table set up in order to pass out fliers and bring awareness to their cause. They will be collecting food at the October and November Art Walks as well.

HILLSBORO VILLAGE AUTO SERVICE – The Lane Motor Museum will be with us again in September!

A THOUSAND FACES –artist - Modern Bronze Jewelry is lovingly hand crafted by twin sisters, Sarah Knox and Liz Anderson, in Franklin, TN. In addition to traditional sterling and gold-filled metals, Modern Bronze is unique in their preference of copper and bronze. These metals are hammered and shaped into unique pieces and often adorned with gemstones and pearls. Sources of inspiration for the sisters' creations include luster and texture of the metals along with the jewelry-making techniques and artifacts of ancient civilizations.

POSH – musicians - will host performances by Noel Barefoot and Meredith Mazie.

CLOTHING XCHANGE - Art: Jeff Bertrand

Music: Judah Magnolia

Food: CX Employee Cook-off, Back to School style!

Fun: Academic Decathlon for which the winner will receive a $50.00 gift certificate to Clothing Xchange! All customers and friends are welcome to test their skill to win.

SEE EYEWEAR – artist- Wendi Strauch Mahoney. I have been painting for a number of years now. I have been drawing since I was a very young child. My goal with every subject I paint is to capture its essence. The images I paint come both from photographs I have taken and from my memories of experiences. However, my best paintings are those that evoke a visceral reaction from those who view them. Landscapes should provoke the senses, capture a moment and transport us to a familiar place. Portraits and figures should elicit a connection with spirit, state of mind and temperament. When I look at art, I want to feel something powerful that transports me to a place or a feeling that resonates deeply. I cannot imagine my life without art. I cannot imagine my mind without the potential for the creative. I love to paint and draw. I hope that is communicated to you. (wendi-strauch-mahoney.artistwebsites.com)

We will be offering $40 off one pair and a total of $100 off two pair, during the walk.

PROVENCE – artist- Brian Nash

I’m a self-taught artist who came to painting late in life and in a rather circuitous way. I have an MBA from Dartmouth College, and was Director of Retail Marketing for Polo/Ralph Lauren in NYC when I got the bug to write country music. I moved to Nashville to become a songwriter, and have had a few dozen songs recorded.

One day, I impulsively picked up a brush and some paint, and started painting. I haven’t stopped since, other than to take the occasional nap. I love writing songs, but painting gives me a joy that is unique and complete.

I love colour, and, for better or worse, I love playfulness. I’d like to think that most of my paintings have evidence of both.

– Musicians - Local Band, Gypsy Pompe will be playing gypsy jazz and western swing music. Zander Wyatt- Guitar Derek Pell - Violin Brad Barrett/Geoff Henderson - Bass Ethan Ballinger-Mandolin Charles Butler-Banjo Noah Denney--Brushes on a Manhasset.

FIRE FINCH – artist - Colleen Wandel is a transplant from Buffalo, New York, who draws inspiration from meadow frolics and Shelby Park bike rides on her vintage Schwinn. She has the Midas touch with art; everything she touches -- whether on canvas, with fabric, or in the home -- turns to a vintage delicate gold. Her woodland sensibilities blend harmoniously with a love of Grandma's lace and hand stitching. In her free time, Colleen enjoys watching old films from the library and exploring the wonders of Tennessee. Follow her at oohcolleen.blogspot.com

PANGAEA –artist - Brad Keen is originally from Jackson, MS and has worked collaboratively and individually on a variety of projects for over a decade. He has exhibited at Kentuck Art Festival, Capture Cafe, Mellow Mushroom, and The Ignition Art Gallery in Tuscaloosa, AL. Brad’s favorite subjects are Musicians and Disney Characters. His use of color and lines seem to make the characters in his paintings come to life. Brads favorite medium is acrylic but he’s not afraid to use oil, pencil and watercolor. Brad is new to Nashville and is currently working at Vanderbilt University as the Assistant Director of Sales and Marketing for the Athletic Department.

A VILLAGE OF FLOWERS –artist - Mary Claire Crow

Awesome Food Samples - Youlanda Peña. After a successful career in business & banking I decided to return to my love of cooking and graduated from the Art Institute of Culinary Arts. My love of food has allowed me to share fun and healthy ways of eating with friends and family, which led me to becoming my own personal chef. I feel that more people would eat healthy if they knew how good it really was

RETROPOLITAN – artist - Candice Sone has a long and distinguished career as an interior designer having receiving her Bachelors Degree from the University of Illinois in 1987. It was in college she also began her training as a painter. In 2008, unable to find just the right pieces for her clients, she began to paint and sell her own artwork. What began as a necessity has become her passion.

Ms. Sone’s subject matter is closely connected to nature. An avid scuba diver, the water is a major influence in her work. She works primarily in acrylics to support a greener environment and often uses mixed media such as gold and silver leaf.

HOT & COLD – artists - Micah Smith (amicahsmith.com) and Ashley Owens. We'll be launching some "back to school" fall drinks on that day. We'll also be launching a totally new brew method (for coffee) and some new fall teas on that day as well. We will have DJs playing live sets.

FIDO – artists - Casey Pierce and David Hellams will be up through September 13th.

Both artists share a studio space and an appreciation for detail in their surreal work. Hellams takes wild animals and places them in the path of daunting human invention. The white paper focuses all of the attention on the relationship between the two subject matters. Some of the symbols present in Hellams' work jumps off of the paper and appear independently on the wall as unique flag-like paintings in various appealing color pallets. Pierce fills his surfaces with atmosphere placing extra attention to certain portions of the work through color and scale. A series of large-scale hands and forearms are dispersed among the canvases. Pierce shows fine tuned skill for bringing the viewer into the world of each piece.

JACKSON'S BAR & BISTRO – artist - Birmingham-based artist Paul Cordes Wilm paints whimsical, humorous and sometimes biting social-commentary pieces on reclaimed wood in a colorful and boisterous style. He has been the unofficial in-house artist at Jackson's in Homewood, AL since its opening in 2006 and is showing in the Village for the second time this year at Jackson's.

RODNEY MITCHELL SALON – artist - Sarah Shearer infuses her creative style into the art of retail window displays in boutiques throughout Nashville. Her latest installation will debut in Hillsboro Village's Rodney Mitchell salon at the September Art Walk. Don't miss her wildly enchanting salute to the arrival of Fall! For more info about Mrs. Shearer, visit www.sarahshearer.blogspot.com or send inquiries to sarahkshearer@gmail.com.

ZEITGEIST opens their Fall art season in Nashville with new work by two internationally recognized artists Kurt Wagner and Wayne White.

World known artist, art director, and puppeteer, Wayne White, is a Chattanooga native now living in LA. White has worked as an illustrator for the East Village Eye, New York Times, Raw Magazine, and the Village Voice and in 1986. He became a designer for the hit television show Pee-wee’s Playhouse, was awarded with three Emmys, and continued to work in television and music video garnering Billboard and MTV awards. His focus now is on painting.

White’s most recognizable works are his word paintings featuring oversized, three-dimensional text painstakingly integrated into vintage landscape lithographs. The paintings are thought-provoking and almost always humorous. White enjoys pointing a finger at vanity, ego, and his memories of the South.

In 2009, White's life and career were chronicled in an incredible 382-page monograph, edited by Todd Oldham. The book features hundreds of images from Wayne's earliest work as an illustrator all the way to his most recent fine art sculptures.

Zeitgeist is excited to also include in this exhibition work by Kurt Wagner. Wagner, an artist from Nashville and childhood friend of White, may be best known for his work with the band Lambchop, and then again maybe not.

Felt leaves & handstitching.

Gotta lay it out all to see what you've got!

Embroidery thread for detail work.

Check back Thursday, 9.1.11, to see how it all comes together!

All photos courtesy Cristina Young.

The Rash Decision

2011-08-25T20:34:00.000-05:00

Here they are- the stuff my dreams are made of. I have been obsessed with Sam Edleman's Wickley Boots for MONTHS now. They represent a major purchase for me- apparently unlike the writer for Vanderbilt University's student news who in a fashion post referred to Sam Edelman as "cobbler-to-the-commoner". Ha!

First, I told myself they would be my treat if I got the new job. Well, I didn't get the new job, but I did gain great experience and receive excellent feedback while giving it my very best. For that, and all the disappointment and frustration of not getting it, I decided it would be OK to treat myself anyway!
This is the most financially irresponsible decision I have made in many moons. A rash one, maybe. But honestly, if there ever were a shoe (besides my Nike's) that I will get a great return on- it would be a studded black leather boot. Expect to see me in these 24-7 for Fall/Winter 2011.

Recent events have left me so, so BLAH: the car repair bills, the job sitch, the freaking rash, the medical bills- it's been an incredibly discouraging month. Although the meds for the allergic reaction (a.k.a. the freaking rash) give me several hours a day of relief, at this point there actually isn't much progress. There are new welts developing which means the Dr considers the current treatment unsuccessful. I am getting the maximum out patient treatment possible, which means the next step is in patient treatment. If by next week it still hasn't gone away, I will be admitted to the hospital for a steroid IV until this thing is gone. I'm almost ready for that to happen-just so it will be over once and for all. Except that I would love to avoid a trip to the hospital. We'll see. Maybe something will shift for the better over the weekend.
At least in the mean time I will rock the awesomest new boots. As soon as they're on my feet I feel 50% more bad ass!

Nosedive or High Five?

2011-08-18T11:02:00.000-05:00

Well hello. It's been a minute!
I hope the thought of me writing in third person tickles your fancy. Why? Because I'm going to give you a Cliff's Notes style run down of my turbulent summer of ups, downs, and alot in between:

Prologue Summary & Analysis
At summer's start, a woman named Sarah looks ahead and prepares for what will be the busiest months of her year. Her workload will be at it's most chaotic, and it will also her favorite time of year- a season of bright colors, hot sun, swimming and kayaking in cool Tennessee waters, and any other number of outdoor adventures. The season is ready to blossom.
Part 1
June kicks off at a boisterous pace. A dramatic shift propels the rest of the summer into a turbulent time- Sarah's current boss receives and accepts an exciting new job offer. Within weeks, she- the only other full time staff in the department- is gone. From that point forward, a frenetic couple of months ensues. Days are spent training new people, learning new work (as Sarah is the fill in for the recently departed boss), maintaining current programs, planning the upcoming fall schedule, and tying up ends that were left loose.
Part 2
Burning both ends, Sarah pushes ahead. With the help of a small crew of very hard workers, all summer programs are pulled off successfully. Sarah realizes she has a genuine passion for this job, and is excited at the prospect of continuing in this role although no decision will be made about who will fill the position permanently until months later.
Part 3
Summer programs start winding down. Sarah is still working at a feverish pace to pull together an innovative new program for fall. She is excited by the possibilities, but the sacrifices incurred by her commitment to this work venture begins to weigh heavily upon her. The summer is almost gone, and she sees many things she cherishes were dropped along the wayside- her home has been neglected, the flower and vegetable gardens she keeps every summer are overrun with weeds. She has not spent time in the studio pursuing her creative goals. She has missed important events, such as weddings of friends, and has been generally absent from friends and family. No waterfalls have been explored, far too few sunny days have been enjoyed and appreciated.
Part 4
Interviews for the position are held, the process looms overhead for weeks. Sarah goes on vacation, relieved to drop the chaos of the work and enjoy the final weeks of summer. A series of mishaps- major car repair,a poison ivy outbreak, etc- overshadow the vacation. The end of vacation will also mark the announcement of interview results.
Part 5
Sarah returns home post vacation -covered in painful poison ivy welts and showing a significantly decreased bank balance. With the return home, heavy work news is imparted. During the week prior, one of the other top candidates was given the job- the job she has worked fiercely for all summer.
Epilogue
Part 1
Defeat, dissappointment, relief. How will she reconcile that months of the hardest work she could give was not enough to secure the job she thought she wanted?
Part 2
The initial shock begins to subside, as do the blistery welts covering 80% of her body. Refocusing is difficult. What was all that for? Was it worth the energy given? Was it worth postponing pursuit of the many of the other passions she has?
Part 3
Yes. As Sarah regroups and returns to appreciaitng the richness of the life she already has, she looks back and says "Yes, I gave it my best and have no regrets. A good challenge brings healthy perspective. This particular challenge wasn't meant to be but it was worth it." She faces ahead and thinks, "I 'm back! Back with a new appreciation for the joys my life already holds. No more setting aside the surrounding beauty, love, and inspiration." Yes. It is good to be back.

I've missed you. Let's make plans. XOXO Sarah

The Seventh Month

2011-07-17T18:29:00.000-05:00

Mid- July. The second half of the year commences. Life has been busy, busy, busy lately! I participated in a show with a group of other Nashville artists; the show opened July 2nd at Blend and hangs through the end of the month. The exhibition, Combustion, featured work by Mandy Brown, Charles Clary, Amanda Dillingham, Jason Driskill, Derek Gibson, Hannah Maxwell Rowell, and myself.

Shearer

Dillingham

Rowell

Driskill

Brown

Clary

Gibson

10 Pictures and a Handful of Random Thoughts.

2011-07-10T19:29:00.000-05:00

1) I am lacking a "domestic" gene. I can never quite bring myself to get excited over domestic-y endeavors. Not sure why- because I look at beautiful home blogs, like Heather Spriggs, and ohhh and ahh over their loveliness. Somehow it rarely translates to my life (I'm sorry Jon). The closest I usually come is yard work/gardening.

2) Jon and I met this weekend, 14 years ago, under the stars on a NC mountain. It changed my life, and me, in ways I never could have predicted.

3) It's true what they say about Naples, FL- lots of "blue hairs".Ha. BUT, it's a gorgeous town with lush green spaces and beautiful Gulf beaches. Delicious food. Diverse accents and nationalities. And a memorable motel just a 1/2 block off the beach called the Mariner. Last weekend I roadtripped there with my bud, Cristina, and her brother. Some documentation of explorations:

Stopped at the beach one evening while biking...

....we all just watched in wonder as the sunset. The sky was blazing orange and yellows- purple clouds and blue water.

When it finally dipped out of sight on the horizon, we all applauded. I've never experienced a sunset where that happened before, but it couldn't have been more fitting.

Olde Naples pier, near the Mariner.

Boats gathered in at dusk to watch 4th of July fireworks on the pier.

First time seeing fireworks over the ocean; I'm a fan!

Oh-no pics of these- but I also enjoyed sweet, juicy mangos (from the yard!) and yummy homemade pupusas during my stay- thanks momma Young!

You'll Never Believe This...

2011-06-23T17:17:00.002-05:00

I'm sure you'll never guess what I've been up to lately. Aside from when I am at work abiding the crazy-coolness of being surrounded by 4-18 year old summer campers, I have been roaming about the Tennessee outdoors. It's June, it's officially summer, and it's perrrrfect swimming, hiking, biking, outdoor time.

This particular day hike was at Fall Creek Falls, which is in TN about 1 1/2 from Nashville.

My friend Jessica and I went and explored several short trails, enjoying the overlooks and quietness of the woods.

We ventured down the Cable Trail, to Cane Creek Falls which is a short distance from Fall Creek Falls. It was a short, but strenuous hike. Check out the trail notice which was posted at the top of the cable descent:

It was strenuous, but totally do-able for anyone in decent shape. It was gorgeous, and I actually preferred the Cane Creek Falls area to Fall Creek Falls.

Being an overcast day, I kinda thought I wouldn't want to swim. Once I got to the base of Cane Creek falls though, of course I changed my mind!

Beautiful.

Weblovin'

2011-06-21T07:32:00.000-05:00

Recently, I've been the recipient of some pretty swell web lovin. Friend and writer, Chuck Beard, posted an entry on his sweet blog :

"The Marriage Behind Art & Music"

It had some really encouraging words for me, and also, for my hubs who is an artist of the musical variety. I am so proud of what he does and inspired by how hard he works. He is so dedicated to music, I love it. Check out his band, Eastern Block and see what you think!

Also, I was recently quite flattered/ecstatic to be featured as "East Nasty of the Week" on my running group's website. I love the write up, which was done by Rod Jones. It included an image of a pet portrait I did of which happened to be my favorite East C.A.N. rescue dog, Shorty. It also included a wedding picture (of me as a blonde); Jon and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary this month!

Bella La Vita

2011-06-10T22:31:00.000-05:00

"How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives." -Annie Dillard

Generally, I feel pretty satisfied with the way I spend my days, although there is room for some adjustments. I have been in a creative slump, but I learned years ago the only way to come out of that is by doing. By going through the motions and regaining that familiarity, until the flow of creativity returns.

I've been in this slump for months now. Thanks to good advice from artistic friends and a little wisdom from past lessons learned, I 've managed to not constantly beat myself up about it. Being insanely critical of myself is like a default reaction for me; I'm trying to learn more fruitful ways to deal with frustration.

I'm thinking of write now as "pre production" of sorts. I am asking questions, writing down answers, and giving new ideas room and time to be thought out.
Some things I am asking myself are:

*What is important to me right now?

*What do I care about most?

*Why do I make the choices I do?

*Who and What do I live my life for?

*What if people hate what I do?

And then I write down the answers, and in the process of answering those questions, MORE questions arise and I try to answer them too.

“The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes. If you foolishly ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it. Your life will be impoverished. But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.”

-Frank Lloyd Wright

Rollin'on the (Buffalo) River

2011-06-01T23:07:00.000-05:00

The first group canoe/kayak outing happened on Memorial weekend- me, Jon, and, oh, 20 friends.

Rod and Amy brought class to the outing; I call this their "Steeplechase on the River" look.

I said the morning we left that I would crush a beer can on my head. I forgot. I guess Cary was feeling the can crushing vibe that day, though.

ROPE SWING!

Rickety steps; questionable rope; big tall tree. As if these aren't enough to tackle, Rod shimmied up even further. Somewhat like one of those dudes that shimmies up a coconut tree to pick the fruit.

Amy, Rod, and Gus puppy.

Jon & I "parked" as the group got spread further and further apart to wait for a few buddies.

Me, Ian, & Lindsay cruisin' in our sporty new kayaks.YAY-guess what we'll be doing a lot of this summer!

Jon - just a swingin.

Jon and I take the plunge. We got married!!!!Hahaha. We jumped off what felt like a pretty tall bridge. I loved it! I love that he likes doing these things with me!

Matt, Jackson, and Christy- our illustrious trip organizer. She successfully coordinated 22 people for 2 day camping and canoeing adventure! Slight confusion over food resulted in 70 something hot dogs being brought for Sunday dinner, but hey, better too much than too little!

Regrouping to continue our 11 mile paddle.

One capsized kayak. Later one capsized canoe. Other than that, pretty smooth paddling. The river's current really carried us along without much work.

Jackson attempts to climb the tree to the rope swing. Look at that determination! What a sweetheart.

One bridge jump wasn't enough- I ended up jumping 4-5 times.It was perfect. Hot sun. Cool water. Lucky me.

Rampant Beach Frolicking

2011-05-18T21:54:00.001-05:00

Good times. Although the weather and water were actually a bit chilly most of the time, and there were occasional thunderstorms, nothing beats the beach. I mean, to each her own, but me, I LOVE IT.

There was a constant breeze/ wind/ sand blast accompanying the aforementioned weather. This is what our blanket looked like after we got up from reading one afternoon!

Perhaps it was a bit early for beach season but we still got in some great days of reading, walking in the sand, and catching up; it was wonderful.

Notice that no one else is in the water in these pics...Yep, I'm the only psycho willing to play in the water despite the frigid temps. Can't help it- gotta play in the waves!

This is what days of listening to the ocean does for me: chilling out.We drove by this sign at the Cooper River Disco (other sweet sign posted HERE) a couple times. Isn't it great? Eventually I just had to pull over for a little photo shoot.I hope everyone gets a break like this at some point in the summer. It's just SO good.

Biking Charleston, SC

2011-05-17T22:14:00.001-05:00

Now that I've had a chance to upload and edit the photos, I'm going to do a couple posts about Charleston. Because it's awesome and it deserves your attention! First off, this trip was one of my favorite types of vacations. I'd call it an "active relaxation" type. I did spend some time watching movies and lounging in bed, but what I most enjoy about traveling is getting out and taking in my new surroundings.

My beautiful BFF, Hollie, moved to Charleston several years ago and I have visited a handful of times. Enough to get a feel for it, and know my way around. I love taking a bike out and exploring places I 've noticed before-maybe a sign that caught my eye, a historic site I've read about, or even just a road /path that looked interesting. The pics above are from a sunset ride down a little road that runs through a marshy area and down to a boat ramp. Very peaceful.


This is on the boardwalk downtown on the harbor side. Charleston is generally very bike friendly. You will see lots of people riding them downtown, and there are a good amount of paths and bike lanes to connect you with some really scenic spots throughout the area.

View from the Cooper River Bridge- the Cooper River emptying into the ocean. It's just so grand. The hugeness of it, the power that can be felt here makes me love it. I get a tiny twinge of fear mixed with a great amount of awe.

A very important part of "active relaxation" is having the right fuel for your adventures. The Village Bakery always has what I need for that, i.e. hot hazelnut coffee and a fresh cinnamon rolls. It's my fave bakery in the area, aside from Baked.

The lovely colors and scents of summer were already out. The sweet smell of Jessamine and Honeysuckle floating on the breeze was heavenly. That may just be the next addition to my garden!

I couldn't not include a picture of Rainbow Row. Sure, maybe you've seen 350 pics of it already but, whatev. Still love it's gorgeous old houses and Southern charm.

That's all for this post. You have a beach-tastic post coming at you tomorrow!

Snapshot

2011-05-14T23:05:00.000-05:00

Today I returned home to Nashville after spending the week in Charleston, SC- lucky me! It was a week full to the brim with wonderful fun and sweet friend time. I can barely keep my eyes open, but before I pass out I wanted to post 5 quick pics of some of my favorite moments and places in no particular order:

1) Cooper River Bridge- the longest cable stayed bridge in North America. With a bike and pedestrian lane, and an incredible view of the the harbor. ocean horizon and downtown Charleston while the sun sets- it's epic.

2) Flora & Fauna- wildflowers in the dunes, manicured secret gardens downtown, dolphins, bird watching. I can get lost in watching and looking.

3) B.F.F.'s- Hollie is the bomb (do people still say that?). I love you girl!

4) East Cooper Disco- chilling out, spontaneous fun.

5) the Ocean- I love it. I don't know what this gesture is that I'm doing, but I know that I am 100% happy!

On Dissipating Disapointment

2011-04-05T22:20:00.000-05:00

Due to continuing pain (caused by ITB issues & inflamed tendons) I decided yesterday to not run the Country Music Full Marathon as planned. As planned for over 5 months. So much time and energy; so many great mornings spent training with my friends- I don't want to let go of it. It seemed like things were going so well until several weeks ago. Even after my longest run of 17 miles I felt shockingly good.
I can pin point several mistakes that led to this point, though:
1) I slacked on strength training and did not have the muscular strength to hold my legs in correct alignment.
2) Running an entire speed training workout in shoes that were wrong for me started irritation around my right knee.
3) When I raced in the Tough Mudder, it escalated from irritation to extreme pain and I decided to finish the half marathon course complete with obstacles, anyway.
So...I suppose next time I'll know what not to do. And now for some quotes on disappointment:

"Disappointment weighs heavy on the pride." ~Mike Howerton
I am nothing if not stubborn. Saying "I can't do the full marathon" is such a blow to my ego. I feel completely confidant in my ability to push through mental challenges because of my will power. I know that I am physically tough enough to push through pain. Withdrawing from a challenge feels like admitting defeat.

"Disappointment is often the salt of life." ~Theodore Parker
This is a disappointment that will leave me stronger, healthier. I came to the decision because continuing could potentially cause greater damage. I have always known that I still want to be active, healthy and happy 20, 30, 40 years down the road and I will accept this disappointment so that I honor that dream.

“The size of your success is measured by the strength of your desire; the size of your dream; and how you handle disappointment along the way.” ~Robert Kiyosaki

How do I handle this? I am so angry- as if my body has betrayed me. I am so disappointed in so many ways I won't go into them all, but trust me, it's been awful. Lots of wailing and gnashing of teeth over here.
But: Jon cheers me up and calms me down, my friends are supportive and they look out for my well-being , and my pups just want to love me. I have a lot of great things to not be disappointed in.

Seamus & Aka always cheer me up; it's time for some photo shoot silliness!

She's so intense. I can relate!

Sweet, sweet Seamus

This is how we roll. One big pile of snuggling.

“I'm disappointed, but I'm not going to run around like Dennis Rodman and head-butt somebody.” ~ Greg Norman

To conclude:
I am pretty crushed, but know that this decision is best for me. I know my non-injured friends are going to have an amazing race at the end of the month. If nothing else, I look forward to being there to cheer them on!

Spring [Paper] Flowers

2011-03-30T11:47:00.000-05:00

So, here are long overdue pics of the spring window additions for Rodney Mitchell Salon in Hillsboro Village. There are other products featured in the window, so I needed to come up with something a little smaller in scale, bright and eye catching without cluttering the window.

I found inspiration in Martha Stewart's craft blog; she features artisans who do some really cool projects! After watching a couple flower making tutorials, I broke out the supplies. Lots of tissue paper, craft paper, florist tape, hot glue and dowel rods were used among other things. My favorite part was adding subtle color variations to the tissue paper by dipping it in a bleach and water mixture.

This was an all day project. Actually, it was a couple evenings and a long day project, but it was the perfect indoor project for the dreary spring weather we've been having. My assembly time was really slow at first but I got faster as I established a technique. Unfortunately though, the faster I went the more frequently I burned myself with hot glue. Scalding hot glue + direct finger contact = blisters. Ouch. After "potting" them in 2 sky blue vases and delivering to their place in the window, I returned home to deal with the post flower creating carnage.

Yes, I am SUPER messy. This is my living room floor/ flower assembling station with Seamus watching from his spot on the couch. The tissue and craft paper cutting were the messiest part. Although, for some reason (whose name is Bella) I ended up with moss strewn about wildly, as well.

First a howling blizzard woke us,
Then the rain came down to soak us,
And now before the eye can focus -
Crocus. ~Lilja Rogers

Recylart

2011-03-25T16:43:00.000-05:00

THIS is the coolest website. It's basically a brainstorm of sustainable creativity. You're going to love it. You're going to get inspired. You're going to obsess over projects. Or...I may be talking about myself a little.

Candy Chang's public installation "Before I Die, I Want To" is currently featured on Recylart.com's home page with a link to her website . Go there. NOW.

I haven't scoured through all her work yet, but I am petty entranced with this project, so I'm sure I will. Chang states,
"I turned the side of an abandoned house in my neighborhood into giant chalkboard where residents can write on the wall and remember what is important to them in life. Before I Die transforms neglected spaces into constructive ones where we can learn the hopes and aspirations of the people around us."

Before I die I want to ....know that my life had a positive impact.

Before I die I want to ....live an adventurous life.

Before I die I want to ....have let go of regret and guilt.

What about you?

Went Down to Georgia: Part Two

2011-03-19T14:11:00.000-05:00

I talked with some of my fellow Tough Mudders last night, and when we were trying to describe the experience to other people- that weren't there- at first we said it was "intense", but that wasn't quite right. "Grueling" is what we came up with:

gru·el·ing also gru·el·ling (gr-lng, grlng)

adj.

Physically or mentally demanding to the point of exhaustion: a grueling campaign.

"Intense" implies something extreme, but maybe a little more focused...at least to me. There were intense moments for sure- like jumping of the 20ft platform into ice cold water (they literally dumped ice in it) or right or dashing into a tangle of electric live wires.
The bigger challenge of this lay more in the duration and constant level of difficulty. I consider myself a pretty strong willed and athletic person, and this kicked my butt. I thought the run would be a piece of cake, but instead of flat/ semi-flat trails that I could fly through, it was all on mountain and dirt bike trails in the Georgia mountains that amounted to a roller coaster for runners. Some inclines were so sharp I grab had to grab tree trunks and pull myself up them. Some downhills were so steep runners just slid down them (or in a few unfortunate cases, fell and hurt their ankles). And that went on and on and on. The last several miles were also just flat out a surprise. The course maps we were given listed an 11 mile distance. As we passed mile 10's marker though, there was no end in site and multiple obstacles left to complete. I think that was the point that was the most difficult: being mentally prepared to finish, then realizing we're still miles away from the finish line.
The second to last obstacle was this platform jump. That icy water took my breath away, but also give me one last burst of energy. Just in time to bolt through the last obstacle, electrical wires, and hurl myself across the finish line.

I 'm so glad I had these ladies with me; I probably wouldn't still be smiling at the finish if it hadn't been for their comradeship. Even when I made a totally nonsensical statement in a moment of exhaustion, they just went with it and seemed totally supportive of my decision, although no one besides me actually knew what the heck I was talking about. I mean if someone said "No, I don't want to joggle anymore.", would you understand that means "We have to carry a log on our shoulders and I just want to stick with the one I already started to pick up even though someones trying to hand me a different one." No? Well, when I told Sarah E and Mary Taylor that in complete seriousness, they went with it. Then we laughed hysterically about it later, and laughter is one of my favorite ways to burst through the wall of physical and mental exhaustion.
Well done, ladies! And gents (The pic up top is of Cary rocking the monkey bars! he made it across- I did not.)! Was it extremely rough? Yes. Was it the hardest thing I've ever done? No. Will I do it again? Probably!


Me, Mary Taylor, Sarah E

Georgia Tough Mudder

2011-03-17T21:38:00.000-05:00

OK, I'm alot slower posting about this than I thought I would be. I'll blame it on how sore I was after this race! I went to down to Georgia with some friends (not the devil) last weekend to run the Tough Mudder. WOW, did I underestimate how difficult it would really be. For one thing, it was seriously muddy-the entire time. The course was a half marathon in the red clay mud with 18 obstacles sprinkled throughout.

Obstacles involved scaling walls, climbing through drainage pipes, crawling under wires, carrying logs through the woods, monkey bars over mud pits, and more and more and more.

Many of the obstacles involved a team effort. It wasn't as much an individual race as it was a group adventure. Only 71% of entrants actually finish; I'm proud to say my group ALL rocked it and came away relatively unscathed.

Here, we are
realizing we've gotten to the obstacle I was most afraid of, Electroshock Therapy". Yes, electric live wires that you have to run through. Some are only mildly charged, some have up to 10,000 volts. True story.
Being shocked was not as painful I as expected, more of a bizarre loss of physical control. My mind still knew to keep going, but when I was zapped by a strong wire towards the end I felt it shoot through my body and my muscles just locked up. When I explain it to people I realize it does seem strange that I paid a good bit of money and traveled 4 hours to experience this.
I feel this experience was epic enough for two posts, so stay tuned for part dos tomorrow!

"Compassion Fatigue," an art show

2011-03-07T21:59:00.000-06:00

At Saturday's art crawl, I attended the opening reception of "Compassion Fatigue", a themed art show at the Downtown Presbyterian Church. One of the most striking pieces there was this photograph by my friend, Tasha French. The statement below explains it brilliantly. Hearing the process of it's making was pretty vivid, as well. I wish/hope you get to see this in person- it is so strong.

"Outreach"

"In this work, Hindu mythology mixes with Christian imagery to explore the grace and destruction inherent in compassion fatigue. In the Hindu paradigm, Kali is both creator and destroyer. In her aspect as the destroyer, Kali is over taken by blood lust and begins to destroy the universe. Her destruction only ends when her consort Shiva throws himself on the ground in front of her. The supposedly slain body of Shiva brings Kali out of her frenzy. Kali is Shakti, the primordial universal life force which brings about liberation and salvation. Yet Kali in her dark aspect is a forbidden thing that haunts our boundary regions and cremation grounds.

Here, Kali (embodied by a woman who performs the roles of activist, chaplain, teacher and homeless outreach worker) is present in the midst of destruction, yet is not the cause of the destruction. She is the Christ bodhisattva; terrible to look upon because of the reality she embodies and reflects. Two hands, seemingly empty, hold the nothingness that is everything, that which she truly has to give, but is seldom recognized as enough in a world of material needs and desires. Another hand holds a bowl of both baptism and cremation ashes, representing the eternal cycle of salvation and destruction. Another hand holds a staff, the shepherd’s crosier, marking the seemingly futile watching and gathering of lambs that nonetheless are taken to slaughter. Everyone healed is eventually destroyed. Another hand, raised defiantly, clutches the holy palm branch of Passover; symbolic of the willingness to turn toward the city and embrace destruction. And finally, behold the Lamb of God, raised by the sixth arm, watching the goddess in the midst of destruction. This is the anguish of the human Christ, vessel of unending compassion whose slain corpse reminds us of the cost of true grace.

Her body carries the burdens of those she refuses to let go, one lambs head representative of a child who died in her arms, one lambs head she holds as a the head of a brother executed by the state, and one head, the head of a man whose charred body marked the very ground upon which she stands, the cremation ground of the destroyed Tent City: a holy, sanctified, terrible place where the world’s disinherited and unwanted found love and healing in equal proportions with beatings, mental illness and dis-ease. Behind the goddess and the cremation ground stretch the highways leading into and out of the city, yet all is utterly still in the eye of destruction.

The potential of unburdened resurrection lies before her, yet until she allows for the liberation from samsara; she remains, willingly, fixed within the destruction."

Weekend Wrap Up and Robust Gonads

2011-03-06T22:59:00.001-06:00

How was your weekend? Lovely, I hope. Let me do a bullet point summary of the favorite bits of mine, because I know you were sitting there at your computer, on pins and needles waiting for me to publish such a thing. The wait is over:

Completed pieces and set up new window display at Rodney Mitchell Salon. Photos soon!
Finished a suspenseful, lyrical novel- A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick.
Ran the furthest distance I've ever run in my life (17 miles) with 2 sweet friends that made the whole thing fun.
Enjoy the company and work of fellow artists at the Downtown Art Crawl.
Went out with the Mr. on Friday evening.
Made some outdoor adventure plans for spring which may include caves and bodies of water.
Ate 2 1/2 cupcakes in 24 hours.
Read this article, felt thankful for my good health and things such as " a full pelt of fur", maintained brain volume, and muscle mass.*

*I felt like it would detract from the dramatic format of my bullet points to include these additional thoughts in the last bullet post, so here we are. I really wanted to share this article for two reasons. One, it includes the following sentence, "Their gonads were normal, as were their hearts. They could balance on narrow rods, the showoffs". Two, I certainly believe that physical health is tied to mental health. Exercise of all types brings such clarity, peace of mind, and strength to my life. It's a simple concept, I know, I think I've just gained a new appreciation for the impact physical activity- especially outdoors- on me in these winter months, when nothing else seems to give me any energy and then I read things like the article and learn it will have an incredible impact even years down the road. May we all lead a life full of love, happiness, mitochondria and unshrinking testicles/ ovaries!

I Would Like to Share This Award With My Husband

2011-03-05T11:40:00.000-06:00

Well, OK, there is no award, but if I were to receive one and hence deliver an acceptance speech I would definitely like to thank supportive spouses. Specifically, JON SHEARER.
For instance, when I do inexplicably weird things like compose a ditty to the tune of a Folger's commercial that goes something like this "The best part of waking up is Sarah in your butt." and then sing it to him when we're hanging out at home he manages to turn it into something endearing by posting this:

Jon Shearer

The best part of waking up, is Sarah......

Thursday at 3:00pm · ·

Travis Slagle, David E. Mitchell, Jay Evans and 7 others like this.
- Beard Evans I thought it was Folgers in your cup....
  Thursday at 3:06pm ·
- Jon Shearer close second sir...
  Thursday at 3:07pm ·
- Sarah Jane I get that all the time!
  Thursday at 3:36pm ·
- Stephen Anthony You're a good man, Mr. Shearer
  Thursday at 7:18pm ·

He also encourages me to go for my goals; even when some people think they are too much, kind of ridiculous, or just strange. As I get into marathon training and running clothes festoon the laundry area of our house like so much spandex decor and the alarm goes off at 5 am for early morning workouts- no complaints, just encouragement.
He even comes out to get togethers with my running group buddies and it occurred to me, that is an awesome thing which deserves a group of it's own!

Ashlee Horne
Jeffrey really liked you guys' idea for the spousal support group :-))))

about an hour ago via iPhone · · · See Friendship

- Sarah K Shearer Hahaha- they could be founding members of S.O.N.s (spouses of Nasties)
  about an hour ago ·
- Sarah K Shearer Other option:
  H.O.E. (N)
  Husbands of East nasties
  about an hour ago · · 1 person

I think he would definitely be a S.O.N, not a H.O.E. (n). Seriously though, his support and involvement in all my endeavors is something that carries me through creative slumps and challenging physical goals, and inspires me to always pursue my dreams.

- Also, thank you Facebook, for providing a forum for all my social networking needs.

Love & Marriage

2011-02-25T11:13:00.000-06:00

I saw this evaluation on a friend's blog and couldn't resist stealing it! (Do I get demerits for that?)

I'm fairly pleased to say I scored -4; honestly, I thought it would be a greater negative number. I mean- not only do I wear red nail polish, I sometimes wear black and never, NEVER dress for breakfast! Thank goodness times have changed! However, I came across this article when I researched the chart (because I thought maybe it was a joke!) that points out, some things have actually stayed very much the same. Personally, I just don't think a chart or online quiz can ever actually assess the compatibility of two human beings.

"People still rate their partners' characteristics as positive or negative, though the standards have changed. Husbands may not expect the same behaviors from their wives anymore, but some of its items--such as 'squeezing toothpaste from the top'- may still resonate with us today."
~Nick Joyce and David B. Baker, PhD

P.S. Is there a "Husband's Chart" out there?

Late February Fog

2011-02-24T11:18:00.000-06:00

erikhenne

I am in such a funk these days. I feel this picture is a good analogy for how I am functioning. Winter is dragging on, and S.A.D. is taking it's toll. Most days when I get out of the day job, I just want to go home and get in bed. The thought of working in the studio seems so far away, an impossibility almost. My creativity, energy, and motivation are at a low point.

The best remedy I have found so far for this winter depression is activity. I set a goal which I will need to follow a structured training plan for, and then I rely on friends to keep me going. This spring I chose the Country Music Full Marathon as my goal. It will be my first full marathon- 26.2 miles throughout the rolling streets of Nashvegas on April 30.

I began training having painful I.T. Band issues, but with a little physical therapy and lots of hip/ core strengthening exercises, I am back. I am thankful for my good health. Last weekend I ran 15 miles- the furthest I've ever run!

I am also thankful for my running group, East Nasty, and the great friends I have met through it. Recently, I have been inspired by a new runner, Roy, who decided he was ready to get healthy and took on the challenge of running the Tomato Fest 5k this past summer. After successfully completing that, he decided to train for the Country Music Half Marathon. At the end of a run last week, Roy suffered a heart attack. Thankfully kind people and capable medics were able to save him and no permanent damage was done.Years of unhealthy diet and exercise habits result often result in clogged arteries; heart diseases is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for men and women. Heart health is one of the great benefits of running, and I'm glad Roy started running when he did so that he had a stronger heart to get him through when he suffered the heart attack. He is recovering quickly and plans to continue training. What a great reminder of how important it really is to take care of our bodies, to eat and exercise so that health problems such as heart disease are not an impending fear.

To positive changes, to Roy, and to running- it's never too late to make a difference!

Early Spring?

2011-02-16T10:47:00.000-06:00

Last week after the groundhog predicted an early spring, this is what we got. Some hills even got caution taped off!

Eighth Avenue at sunrise last Thursday morning after we got a sudden several inches of snow accumulation overnight and the roads hadn't cleared yet. I kinda liked it!

Oh, my mild temped state- what has happened here over the past year has been bizarre. An epic flood in the spring caused tragedy, sweltering heat in the summer suffocated some people, and now a half dozen mini snows. I'm so over this winter. Where is my early spring, little groundhog?

I have to admit, the snow does make me enjoy winter more. It brings a crystalline, pure beauty to a time that otherwise feels like endless dreary gray mess to me. Waking up and walking outside through a dazzling blanket of snow still gives me a childlike sense of wonder. I enjoyed it, ran in it, made snow angels in it- but still hope its the last of it's kind for this year. The forecast is looking up this week, and I may just be coming out of semi- hibernation soon!

Racing for Wounded Warriors Project

2011-02-09T10:39:00.001-06:00

On March 12th I am racing in a 10 mile event called the "Tough Mudder" ; it is an obstacle course designed by British Special Forces to test all around strength, stamina, mental grit, and camaraderie. The course will be over 10 miles, and will include 18 obstacles such as scaling walls, hurdles in the mud, climbing through tunnels, jumping over fire, etc!

I am dedicating my race to our countries severely injured service men and women. I am slightly terrified (if you check out the website, you'll know why!), but ready to take it on. Although this will be a BIG challenge for me; I know it is a small thing in comparison to the toughness our injured service men, women, and their families exhibit in their everyday lives. I ask you to support me in this goal by donating to the nonprofit Wounded Warrior Project.

Here are some details about the project:

The W.W.Projects goals are:
* To raise awareness and enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members.
* To help injured service members aid and assist each other.
* To provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members.
Wounded Warrior Project began when several individuals took small, inspired actions to help others in need.

One night while watching the evening news, a group of veterans and brothers in Roanoke, VA were moved by the difficult stories of the first wounded service members returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq. They realized then and there that something needed to be done for these brave individuals beyond the brass bands and ticker tape parades. WWP began as a small, grassroots effort to provide immediate assistance when a warrior of this generation was injured. They felt the most good could be done by providing more comprehensive programs and services to the newly injured, rather than spreading too thin by trying to help all veterans. They also knew there were many terrific veterans' organizations for warriors from previous conflicts, but very few focused on serving our newest generation.

The support and resources WWP provides for physical and mental injuries is very impactful. Please donate on my fundraising page HERE . Twenty dollars or five dollars, no amount is too small to matter!

"No act of kindness, no matter how small is ever wasted. "
- Aesop

Finally, A New Post!

2011-02-08T12:55:00.000-06:00

The Groundhog predicted an early spring, but no signs of it yet in Nashville! We're still having winter weather advisory's and all kinds of unpleasant weather. It's been weighing on me a lot lately, just sapping my energy away. Due to that fact, I wasn't feeling super social during this past Saturday night's Art Crawl so I just did a quick run through. My favorite parts were Julie Lee's solo show at DPC, and Suspension at Twist- a show by Jamie Raybin and Ryan Hogan. In Suspension, one piece read, "There is a specific form of perfectionism where you can't make decisions, can't commit to anything, for fear of being wrong." It struck a major chord with me. I think about it and realize this kind of perfectionism inhibits areas of my life that are very important to me.

On the topic of perfectionism and fear, I watched Black Swan a couple weeks ago. Upon walking out of the theater I honestly didn't know if I liked it. Unfortunately, I had already heard a lot about the plot, so some of the suspense was missing for me. Here I am though, weeks later, thinking of it. After letting it sink in (I think I needed to because it was absolutely dizzying) I am appreciating it more and more. And the costume design by Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte, doesn't hurt!

You Really Have Got to Watch This

2011-01-30T08:41:00.000-06:00

The beautiful mind of Stephen Wiltshire:

So far, So good

2011-01-04T22:14:00.002-06:00

I'm actually kind of "blah" at the moment and being lazy tonight, but during my lazing I have replayed the past month or so in my mind. Good stuff! Here are some images of moments and places I enjoyed- in no particular order.

Baby bottles and...wine? Hahaha! This is preparation for the most delicious Thanksgiving dinner at my parents (my Mom is a fantastic chef and no, I did not pick it up).

Exploring, with Jon, on Thanksgiving night in east Tennessee.

Friends and I painted pieces to go on a community Christmas tree. Can you guess which two are mine?

The king of all Christmas pageants, Blake! Smart, cute, and so hilarious- he is the BEST. I may be a little biased.

Jon and I celebrated New Year's Eve with friends, at a little party at Casa de Shearer. We were going to head downtown for the countdown, but after everyone had a couple drinks it seemed like a bad idea to try to relocate the group and we had a countdown in the living room watching the Time Square ball drop, instead. Still lots of fun, still one of my favorite holidays! It's a toss up between New Year's Eve and 4th of July- I think I love them both equally.
Well, here we are four days into the new year. So far, so good. I like the way 2011 is looking!

1.1.11

2011-01-01T12:13:00.000-06:00

Some people dream of success... while others wake up and work hard at it. ~Author
Unknown

That is my theme for 2011. Last year was a pretty great year for me. I grew from challenging myself in several different areas of life and will carry on with that for this new year. As for resolutions, I normally don't make any. A couple nights ago though, I realized that I have one goal I have been intimidated to take any action on, so I have resolved to change that. I'll let you know what it is when I have succeeded at it!

These pics are "borrowed"; aren't they lovely?

Happy 2011, friends! I wish you all the very best.

Soaking

2010-12-27T16:24:00.001-06:00

I'm soaking the rays of afternoon sun, after many snowy gray days. What a relief. I feel like a cat; I very much want to find a sunny patch on the floor to curl up and take a nap. Instead, I'll paint in the studio with the light streaming through my huge windows and let the brightness carry me through this frigid winter a little longer.

"I tell you, the more I think, the more I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." - Vincent van Gogh

High Five, Tennessee

2010-12-23T10:50:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I high- fived Nashville; today I 'd like to take it a step further and high- five the state of Tennessee. I've noticed a couple things this month that are totally awesome about the state I live in.

First, results of the 2010 census reported on in the Washington Examiner earlier this week show Tennessee as one of 7 states with above national average growth; showing "growth tends to be stronger where taxes are lower. Seven of the nine states that do not levy an income tax grew faster than the national average."

Read more at the Washington Examiner: http://washingtonexaminer.com/politics/2010/12/census-fast-growth-states-no-income-tax?sms_ss=facebook&at_xt=4d1254c64add162d%2C0#ixzz18x69Vb2D

Second, the parks and outdoor recreation areas in this state are super.

I was lucky to spend alot of time outdoors exploring in 2010 and can say from experience that there is so much to offer in the state, you are more likely to run out of time to explore it all than places to explore. The highlight of my summer was the Great TN Waterfall Tour of 2010, but hiking a bit of the Appalachian Trail in East TN this Fall was quite notable, as well.

Roan Mountain, like most East TN mountains, is gorgeous! But that's not all that I love about it; I love that it is home to it's very own goat herd, The Baa-tany Goat Project. Read their brochure HERE.

What's not to love?! Well, maybe the dreariness of winter, but it could be worse!

High Five, Nashville!

2010-12-22T15:36:00.000-06:00

It's so great to see Nashville getting national recognition for being an awesome place to live, and drawing attention to the vibrant creative community:

"These artists are also putting the neighborhoods where they work, such as Downtown, 12South, and East Nashville, on the cultural map. "

Country Going Strong: Nashville's Best Hot Spots

Christmas Break

2010-12-21T18:42:00.000-06:00

Christmas break has officially begun! For my first time! I' m not used to having time off work like this during the holidays; how strange to think I won't be back in the office until NEXT YEAR. It's only 2 weeks away, but still! It's pretty great. I put up some Christmas decorations this year, and hope to have some lazy days enjoying the cozy glow of twinkle lights.

Bella, Christmas Terminator

Bella the kitty, my little Christmas Terminator, has a different plan for such things. She has pulled and shredded garland, knocked down ball ornaments, and "killed" bird ornaments since their arrival. I noticed yesterday that she actually knocked one of the lower branches loose from the tree. Kind of frustrating, but kind of don't care- Christmas isn't really a thing that I go crazy over and I guess I'm entertained by the scheming look in her eyes. I'm sure I'd be doing the very same thing if I were her!

Bella stalks a bird

I'm thankful to have had a quite decent amount of commissioned work lately; its allowed me to do a little extra Christmas shopping. I need to have one more piece done by tomorrow and then I will be working on some larger, non- commissioned things in the studio. Time in the studio is my main goal for this break. I'm a little nervous of time slipping by too quickly. Sometimes I just want to do so many things, it's hard to pick a starting place for any one thing. I can let myself get pulled a little in 10 different directions and end up nowhere, or I can choose one direction, stick to that path, and make progress- that is where I'm at. Tying up lots of little loose ends, letting go of worrying about low priority things, and focusing my energy on my goals. Maybe I need to be channel Bella's determination.

Before and After

2010-12-16T18:12:00.001-06:00

Custom pet portrait orders are keeping me happily busy these days! The fundraising Christmas special for East C.A.N. ends tonight at midnight, although afterwards I will still take orders through December 20 to be done by Christmas eve. The proceeds for those will benefit the Shearer pups- I'm thinking, new dog bed?

Aka Shearer & her slightly used bed.

An order came in earlier this week that I really was excited to see was of these two cuties, Bailey and Shorty. I don't know Bailey's story, but I do know Shorty as an East C.A.N. rescue. I met Shorty this year in the Spring when he was but a youngster. East C.A.N. brought him to East Nasty as one of the adoptable dogs of the week. Aka was with me that night and Shorty wanted her attention so badly; he ran alongside her during parts of the run, always looking over at her to see if she noticed- she didn't. But I did! He had the biggest personality and when I saw him months later -again as an East C.A.N.adoptable at East Nasty- he had grown into a big, some might think intimidating, guy. Apparently he even prevented a lawn mower theft from his yard. When I sat down next to him he was still such a big baby, waiting to be loved- he climbed in my lap! Even though there is no more room in the Shearer Inn I looked him up on the rescue's website that night; there is just something special about him. Seeing him in a forever home, with a family that loves him so much they're getting his portrait made, is just perfection.

Bailey's before and after.

Shorty's before and after.

Hillsboro Village Art Walk

2010-12-06T23:04:00.000-06:00

On the first Thursday of every month, Hillsboro Village hosts an art walk. Shops are open late, local artists are featured, and a good time is had by all.

I set up 4 paintings, warmed myself by drinking wine, and chatted with folks in the neighborhood for the evening. Hillsboro Village is one of my favorite areas in Nashville. I like the "mix". Its young, middle, and old. It's artists, college students, musicians, and an array of lots more which keeps it from being overrun by any one group of people (hipsters, *ahem*). The baristas are so friendly and I do love Bongo Java coffee, so I think I'd say Fido is my #1 pick in the Village.

I have to say Rodney Mitchell and his salon full of lovely guys and gals will keep you looking gorgeous, so they are a must visit, too! Very recently I worked on changing out their window display. This time the new decorations are inside (both windows, as well as throughout the store) and outside (lights and ornaments). Hope you like it!

wishing

2010-12-05T22:45:00.000-06:00

If I could be anywhere in the world right now, this would be it:

Calgon, take me away.

If I Close My Eyes and Click My Heels 3 Times

2010-12-05T11:44:00.001-06:00

Can I be transported somewhere tropical in another country? I swear I hate this time of year. I've been trying to contain my grinchyness by focusing on the many, many things I have to be thankful for. My life is good. Great even. I feel like generally I am pretty good at not being self- indulgent and whiny, but just this once I want to do it.
1) I despise the darkness and the bitter cold that this time of year brings.
2) I am having pain in my knees, and it is frustrating the #%*@ out of me.
3) I wish I could travel more. It is so inspiring.
4) I wish I hadn't been miserably sick the entire week of the only vacation we did go on this year.
5) I wish Thanksgiving and Christmas could be deleted, as they are annoying/least favorite holidays to me.
6) I wish I were somewhere bright and beautiful listening to ocean sounds, feeling the sun on my face.

SO there. I'll stop. I should never complain like this, after all, I am fortunate to be surrounded by so much goodness in life.

Elizabethton, TN

2010-11-30T21:43:00.000-06:00

Jon and I recently went to northeast Tennessee to visit family. We wandered around through quiet downtown streets on Thanksgiving night, their lights brightly anticipating the next holiday to come...

If winter is slumber and spring is birth, and summer is life, then autumn rounds out to be reflection. It's a time of year when the leaves are down and the harvest is in and the perennials are gone. Mother Earth just closed up the drapes on another year and it's time to reflect on what's come before.
Mitchell Burgess, Northern Exposure, Thanksgiving, 1992

Downtown Elizabethton

Downtown Barber Shop

the Covered Bridge

Jon walking across the bridge

Lights above the Doe River

Thank You

2010-11-23T23:02:00.000-06:00

Thankful for:

*Jon- who is always there when I need him, is shockingly patient with my flaws, and I cannot/would not want to imagine life without.

*My good health- which I am often guilty of taking for granted.

*This year of gorgeous weather- so many beautiful days to spend/spent outside. This summer was one of the best in years-sailing, waterfall exploring, kayaking, swimming- days filled to the fullest! Even this fall, with its 5p.m. darkness, the mild temperatures and sunshine have been so pleasant that the depression that seasonally comes with the darkness has not been so bad. I'm optimistic for a mild winter, as well!

*Nashville community- I just love the people I am surrounded by. I appreciate that I am part of a vibrant creative ecosystem. As a proud Nashvillian, I'd like to point out that we rank 4th in the nation for cultural vitality being outranked only by NYC, Washington,DC, and Los Angeles. You can read about it HERE, but it's not something I needed a researcher to tell me because I see it in my friends everyday. They are opening their own art galleries; they are spending time volunteering and looking for ways to improve lives of others; they are dedicated to creating new music or illustrating books in addition to working their full time jobs; they are organizing free running groups promoting healthy lifestyles; they are vital.

Of course there is more, but these few are at the front of my thoughts tonight. I hope you are well, and overflowing with all kinds of goodness- Happy Thanksgiving!

New Paintings for Me! Or You?

2010-11-18T22:16:00.000-06:00

I finished two pieces yesterday that I want to hang at home (kitchen, maybe?) once I put them in a frame. I've got a couple basic black frames for them that I will paint a robin's egg, aqua type light blue. They are a combination of watercolor, ink, and collaged paper.

These guys are the sweetest little buddies EVER- how could I not paint portraits of their lovable faces?

If you are trying to find the perfect gift for someone who adores their canine buddy as much as I do, consider a custom portrait like these of their best furry friend! These pieces fit a standard size 8" x 10" frame, making framing easy and inexpensive. Price is $50; contact me for more details!

1hour.56minutes.24seconds.

2010-11-13T17:21:00.000-06:00

This morning I ran my third 1/2 marathon, but it was the first one I've ever raced. Like- set a time goal, wrote my mile splits on my arm with a sharpie, pushed myself past my comfort zone, raced. It was a gorgeous morning for the Nashville 1/2 Marathon, an I Run For the Party event, to take 1200 runners through downtown's riverfront, along the sunny greenway, out to metrocenter, and back.

The glorious weather calmed my nerves, as did seeing so many other East Nasties out on the course. East Nasties are the best, seriously. Supportive, encouraging, knowledgeable- everything a girl who's never really considered herself a "real runner" could ask for in a running group.

So, the best news is that I met and exceeded my goal- which was to finish in under 2 hours. My official time was 1.56.24- YEAHHHHHHH, THAT'S RIGHT!!!

Then, I went home and took an ice bath-yikes. YES it is entirely as bad as it sounds, but it does prevent aches and pains.

A friend commented this afternoon about how important being mentally committed is to this kind of thing, how powerfully your mind can tell your body what to do. Or not do. All my life I've told myself "I'm a slow runner", and I was until I told myself I wanted something different.

Girl Crush

2010-11-12T17:31:00.000-06:00

I don't get really, really into movies that often. No Twilight addiction or Lord of the Rings obsession;however, I am all about the Millennium Trilogy (Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Girl Who Played With Fire, Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest).

It's mainly because of the lead character, Lisbeth Salander. She is a bad ass. Period. Most awesome/interesting female character I 've seen in a long time. Unfamiliar? Here's a great write-up for you.

Anywhoo, I'm uber excited to see the 3rd and final movie, the Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, when it opens at the Belcourt theater next week!

Snippets

2010-11-02T21:27:00.000-05:00

Snippet #1:

I've been painting- working alot in the studio lately. It's been great. I feel very protective of it- it being the new work and the thought process involved in it's creation. So, I won't be posting about it. No pictures- I don't want any feedback about them yet. No shows-I don't want a deadline interfering with the flow of the work. Like Justin Timberlake said recently in regards to his making a new record, " All I’m saying is, in very simple terms, I’ll know when I know. And until I know, I don’t know."

Snippet #2:

I love that one of my friends chose my Halloween costume suggestion for her. I love, love that I got to cut/paint/ bedazzle it to perfection. I love, love, love that her husband agreed to wear it with her! How great is he?! Just looking at the picture makes me smile- and it was even better in person!

Double Rainbow, All the Way!

Snippet #3:

I 'm so lucky to have the life I do. I am married to an amazing man. We have a cozy home and sweet friends. My days are fulfilling. When I do have a bad day, I can always count on my four loving little buddies (Seamus,Aka, Carrey, & Bella) to cheer me up. And they do!

90 lb Lap Dog

Anna Dello Russo Does Halloween

2010-10-30T11:18:00.001-05:00

How does a style icon do Halloween? I can't think of any better inspiration than the spectacular Anna Della Russo. Find out more in her blog link below!

ANNADELLORUSSO.com: Nowness: Last Minute Halloween Costumes?: "Anna Dello Russo Looks to Gaga, Givenchy and Gold for Inspiration.We could think of no better expert on how to put together the most attent..."

Painty

2010-10-29T10:52:00.003-05:00

“What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?”

- van gogh

I've been really painty lately, and it's been great.

I 've been leaning towards color combination's similar this group of vintage buttons...

contrasted by something vibrant and bold.

I always do favor the blue greens of oceans and minerals.

At the moment though, I am obsessed with this striking shade of yellow green. I adore it, and sadly have extracted every last bit of it from the paint tube I have. Time for an art supply trip- which I wish could be in the form of a shopping spree.

Bourbon Chase Relay

2010-10-28T21:51:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I participated in a crazy awesome event called the Bourbon Chase Relay. As I did when invited to join my team of friends in the race, you may ask:

WHAT?

The Bourbon Chase is a unique, overnight relay adventure in which teams of runners cover 200 miles of scenic byways along the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Participants will experience the best of Kentucky. Starting near Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World, and wrapping up with a festive finish in downtown Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, The Bourbon Chase will treat runners to gorgeous horse farms and the rolling Bluegrass countryside.

And, as the event name implies, the featured attraction of the race will be the Kentucky Bourbon Trail which links the state's legendary distilleries.

And also:

HOW?

Teams are made up of 6 or 12 person teams. Each member of the team will run three legs over distances varying from 3 – 7 miles. Each team will provide two support vans to drop off and pick up runners at designated exchange points along the 200-mile route. So, you don't have to be a world-class runner. From casual joggers to serious racers, this event is great fun for everyone.

I'll attempt even further explanation:

Our team, "East Nasty for Life!", consisted of 12 valiant men and women. Upon checking in at the starting line, we split into 2 groups -of 6 runners each- which would for the rest of the weekend be known as "Van 1" and "Van 2".

Van 1 kicks off the race with their runners one by one completing the first 6 legs of the 200 mile adventure. Their first runner starts, then they drive to the end of leg 1, let the second runner warm up, and look for runner one to arrive. This process repeats all the way to runner 6. Van 2 drives on to the spot where the last runner (#6) of Van 1 arrives and hands off the relay wristband. Then Van 2's runners one by one complete the next six legs, at which point the relay wristband is handed off to Van 1's first runner and cycle repeats itself two more times. Each runner completes three legs (each leg averaging around 5-6 miles) of the journey, as the team cycles through all the runners non -stop until the finish line is crossed.

Add in extreme exhaustion, and you get the idea!

Post Game

2010-10-26T07:53:00.002-05:00

After the soccer game we got Mexican for dinner- yum. The Titans, who Blake is a big fan of, were playing that night too, so we got some great commentary!

He's so funny and cute!

Practicing "the Rocketship"....

... and "the Jellyfish".

I have some great memories of playing soccer in the fall as a child, and it is such a treat to see him enjoying some of the same things. What an amazing little guy.

So Proud

2010-10-26T07:47:00.002-05:00

The little man is playing soccer again this fall.

This time around they understand which direction to kick the ball, how to score goals, and play as a team.

GO BLAKE!!!!!

He's the best.

Ready (for the funeral)

2010-10-19T08:18:00.002-05:00

Fall. Fall. Fall. Time for a new Fall window at Rodney Mitchell Hair Salon in Hillsboro Village. After several months of not creating any display work, putting this together reminded me how much I do enjoy it.

And the folks at Rodney Mitchell- love them. Looking for a good cut and color? You need to make an appointment with Allison!

I adore Hillsboro Village, too! It's the best little village in town.

Plus, you won't get a better muffin in town than Fido's Pumpkin Chocolate Chip delicousness. They are seriously addictive.

Fall glam is the window theme, which I was very happy to do as opposed to going the typical brown/ rust/ orange "fall" route. Bleh. Have I ever mentioned those are my least favorite colors? Yep.

* orchid stripe, metal garland detail *

What IS my favorite lately is Band of Horses. After the seeing them in Nashville at Live on the Green several weeks ago, I've been hooked. They seem very much suited to be my current soundtrack. This song especially. On repeat. So Autumnal.

The Funeral

I'm coming up only to hold you under
I'm coming up only to show you wrong
And to know you is hard and we wonder
To know you all wrong, we were

Really too late to call, so we wait for
Morning to wake you; it's all we got
To know me as hardly golden
Is to know me all wrong, they were

At every occasion I'll be ready for a funeral
At every occasion once more is called a funeral
Every occasion I'm ready for the funeral
At every occasion one brilliant day funeral

I'm coming up only to show you down for
I'm coming up only to show you wrong
To the outside, the dead leaves, they all blow (alive is very poetic)
Before they died had trees to hang their hope

At every occasion I'll be ready for the funeral
At every occasion once more is called the funeral
At every occasion I'm ready for the funeral
At every occasion one brilliant day funeral

Admirationfest

2010-09-28T15:24:00.004-05:00

It's all around me. Be it artists, athletes, or animal rescuers-I have been blessed with meeting incredibly inspiring people. I admire how intentionally they choose to live; to act on the big ideas they have and be willing to be inconvenienced. It is so beautiful to see someone chose that over comfortability.

For instance, last night at East Nasty- the most awesome running club EVER- our usual route was postponed in favor of the Gumpathon. The Gumpathon is this: 6 men running across the country (3530 miles) for eight weeks, raising money for injures servicemen and women. Wow. It was an honor to support them as a group and join them for a tiny portion of their epic run.

Crossing the pedestrian bridge over the Cumberland river, we ran into downtown Nashville together.

Cadillac Ranch on Broadway hosted a fundraising concert for the Gumpathoners. At this point they are over 1000 miles into their journey from New York to Santa Monica. They are crossing 16 states, which will cover 10 mountain ranges and 3 deserts. What a choice to make. What a courageous heart you would need.

Speaking of brave people with big hearts, East C.A.N., works tirelessly to rescue, vet, foster, and adopt abandoned animals into loving homes. Do you love dogs, but don't have time or space to have one of your own? Contact these guys to take a pup to the park or for a walk; even just a little help goes a long way to support what these dedicated people are doing. Do you want to adopt a dog? Come meet a canine buddy every Wednesday at 6:00pm at 11th and Holly in east Nashville before the run. Also, see their webpage.

Since I biked to East Nasty last night, I didn't have one of my dogs with me. Don't tell Seamus and Aka, but I met the CUTEST little red pit named Penny and I took her with me for the run. I have another favorite, too; his name is Shorty. If I had any more money, space, or time, Shorty would be coming home with me!

SO, all that to say last night, this past Sunday morning, everyday really, I 'm having an admirationfest (it's a new word) for the people I meet who choose to accept challenges and struggle to aid others; they make our world a beautiful place.

Last but not least, I'm inspired by artists like Eric, who is biking cross country for a year, and drawing the entire adventure. It's not to make or raise money, it's simply to see. To put himself out of his social, economic, and geographical bubble and really see what other people living then, and as artists do, communicate it through their work.

Time for me to get out there!

2nd Annual SoundCrawl

2010-09-28T12:55:00.002-05:00

Did the inaugural event last year leave you wanting more? Have you heard about it, and wondered it is? Check out the "ABOUT" page from the official SoundCrawl website.
I'm looking forward to being serenaded this Saturday evening with avant garde goodness brought about by talented friend and artist, Aaron Hoke Doenges. You won't want to miss this!

ABOUT: SoundCrawl

Picture a Saturday night in Nashville when all the galleries are open. Beautiful people, drinks in hand, drift from one gallery to another to experience the best the city has to offer in visual art.

Now imagine that at various points along the way something new has been added, an opportunity to experience a new kind of art, art that you HEAR....sound art.

So in between the experience of the visual arts, artists and guests alike gather to listen to....a rhythmic beat of water drops....or a dizzying immersion of the sound of coins moving through space...synthetic audio wrapping around, tickling the ear drums of the city.

After a successful inaugural event last year, SoundCrawl:Nashville is returning this fall for a second sonic immersion of Music City. During the downtown ArtCrawl on October 2nd, from 6-9pm, Nashville will once again dive into the world of experimental audio with new sound art compositions from around the world. Compositions that immerse. Compositions that resonate. Compositions that explore.

about the ArtCrawl: (from www.artatthearcade.com):Every first Saturday of the month, the historic Arcade in downtown Nashville comes to life with over one thousand visitors. Multiple galleries open their doors to avid art lovers as well as anyone else that is just curious to see what the Gallery Crawl is all about. Art at the Arcade is a collective organization that hosts an assortment of contemporary artists from throughout the world to Nashville.

what is SoundArt: Between 1930 and 1965, composer Edgard Varèse gave a series of lectures that have since been collected and titled “The Liberation of Sound.” In these lectures, Varese was trying to understand – and explain – his own approach to sonic expression. He, along with Pierre Schaeffer and others, began to explore the organization of sonic materials – sounds from the ambient world, evolving electronic technology, and the traditional instruments used for centuries– in any and every combination into cohesive works of audio art on phonograph (and then tape, and now computer).

The only definition that seemed to fit his music was simply: “organized sound.”

This definition has been given several labels through the years: musique concrète (in the French, Varèse and Schaeffer’s native tongue), electroacoustic music, sound collage, sound music, sound art, etc., etc. Some of these labels focus on very specific types of audio used. Some do not. Each one, however, is all encompassing of sound. Any sound. That has been organized in some way.

It’s a pretty broad definition.

The cultural and mechanical forces that influenced Varèse and Schaeffer have only become more powerful in the intervening years. With the advent of the computer and audio software, the production possibilities of sound organization – something that this town knows a bit about - seem endless. This power has brought with it technological ubiquity – computers are everywhere – and with ubiquity has come the commonplace, and with the commonplace comes the ability to focus not only on the medium (the technology used) but also on the expression (the art of the sounds used). And has changed the art of sound as we know it.

So what is sound art?

Sound \'saund\: the sensation perceived by the sense of hearing

Art \'ärt\: the conscious use of skill and creative imagination especially in the production of aesthetic objects

Sound Art \'saund ' ärt\: The conscious use of skill and creative imagination in producing aesthetic sensations perceived by the sense of hearing.

Sound. Collage. Expression. Audio. Organization. Consciousness. Creativity. Music. Art.

Hanging Hopes Out On a Line

2010-09-21T23:46:00.002-05:00

image by Banksy

I have been struggling alot lately to keep focused- so many hopes and plans that sometimes I can't keep up with them. I want so much in life. I don't understand when people say they are bored.

Incidentally, lately I've found myself more depressed than I have been in many, many months and frustrated with the energy it drains from me. What a frustrating struggle, and I know I am not alone in it. I don't want to have a pity party, but I feel betrayed by myself. Why does my body do this to me? Or is it my mind? Is there a difference? The past couple weeks were such a string of high and lows. I want to let it go. I want my mind moving in a new direction.

Consuming Catastrophe part 2

2010-09-21T23:31:00.003-05:00

In thinking about my last post about the recent show, Consuming Catastrophe, I realized there should be more pictures. So here they are; a quick photo journey.

Consuming Catastrophe

2010-09-14T07:40:00.002-05:00

I really enjoyed this past month's event in Downtown Presbyterian at Art Crawl; unfortunately it was up one night only. Read the press release below to get the gist of it:

Press Release:
Downtown Presbyterian Children’s Summer Arts Program

If popular caricature is at all correct and church is the place where young people are
taken to learn to hate and fear their own bodies, Downtown Presbyterian Church is going
against the grain. Led by children’s education director, Sarah Dark and with the help of
area artists J. Todd Greene, Richard Feaster, David Carlson, Mandy Rogers-Horton, and
DPC’s own Beth Gilmore, Jake Larson, and Aaron Doenges, the children of the church
are working to transform the downstairs chapel into an installation of the human body.
The show’s title? Consuming Catastrophe: The Comedy of the Heart; A Play in Ate
Parts.
Guided by the conviction that a child’s relationship with God is healthily
underway long before adults start arming them with readymade answers, Dark
customarily begins their Sunday morning classes together with a story, followed by
questions. Take Jesus’ parable of the mustard seed, for instance. “The smallest of all
seeds becomes a tree so great that many birds can make their home in it,” Dark explains.”
I asked the children, ‘How is the kingdom of heaven like a mustard seed?’” What did they
come up with?
It is growing.
It is a home for us.
It is something small that is becoming great.
“I wondered aloud how the seed knew what to grow into.”

It is very powerful.
It is what it was made for.
“I asked where the children find this kind of power.”
In the trees around us.
In the seasons changing.
In our bodies.
It was the phrase, “In our bodies” that connected Todd Greene’s vision of a
human body machine with this year’s Summer Art’s Program director Dave Carlson’s
hope for a kinetic installation. Dark explains: “After spending a few weeks on what
art might be for and how specific artists create art that is interactive and moving, it
was time to put all of our ideas together.” Reporting back to the children, she had an
announcement: “Kids, we’re going to turn the chapel into a human body that you can
walk through. Oh, and you are the mustard seeds.”
It’s Dark’s hope that the children’s creation will serve as a visual aid, for young
and old alike, in better discerning God’s redeeming work not as something that happens
in spite of our bodies but within and among them and for better imagining the breadth
and outlandish scope of God’s love. She envisions the installation as “an interactive
space that will take us deeper into the poetry of this weirdly elusive but ever-expanding
kingdom...Participants will cross the threshold of the mouth and enter a bioactive
landscape, journeying through the esophagus of darkness, beneath the soul of the
stomach, into the forest of intestines, accompanied by the music of the heart, exiting
into the quiet of a blossoming tree so inclusive that life lives forever in it.” Ideally, this
culminating event of DPC’s summer arts program will somehow, in Dark’s phrase, “put
skin and bones on the mystery of the kingdom of God.”
The show opens on September 4th in DPC’s chapel at 6:00. Food and drink will be
available as a part of the Artluck’s 1st Saturday Art Crawl.

Winds of Change or I'm in Denial

2010-09-06T13:41:00.001-05:00

Pretty, luscious blooms of summer; I don't want to see them wither and fade. I love my little plants; we have quite a lot in common. We lie dormant, hibernating through the dark, cold Winter. We start inching our way out again in the Spring, refreshed by the promise of rain and warmth. We burst into bloom in the summer: fueled by the energy of the sun all types of fruits, vegetables, and bold blossoms arrive. We feel the cool wind of Fall creep in, and begin to withdraw. Withering and fading, we will prepare for Winter and complete the cycle once again.
Apparently, I AM a plant. This so accurately describes what I feel right now. I am a little embarassed to admit how severly this impacts me. I feel frustratingly out of control at this time of year. I am still trying to cling to the last days of Summer, not wanting to let go. Summer Sarah is adventurous, fearless, and energtic. I want that to be me year round, but the fact is I am affected by the seasons ( S.A.D. I suppose) and no matter what I say, do, or think, I will not feel the same in the Winter. Thus, Fall gets the short end of the stick- it's arrival triggers me to panic every year at this time. Every freaking year. Its frustrating. I'm manic- swinging wildly between desperately not wanting to let go of Summer, and alternately mourning the loss of it.
Once we are completely IN Fall, I will enjoy it. It's just the transition that kills me. Seeing the beginning of the dying season. The trees, the plants, the grass- dying. So apparently I am a plant or a closet hippie. I feel intense connection to nature.
What I am reminding myself now though, is that death is a necessary part of new life, new seeds, new growth. This past weekend's art crawl had an installation that really impacted me....more on that in the next post!

These Are the Perfect Days

2010-09-01T09:31:00.004-05:00

For the past couple weeks when I've thought about blogging, I felt I didn't know where to start because so much is going on, and then I 'd get swept up in the "goings on", and next thing you know another week has gone by.

The weather has been stunningly wonderful the past week or so. Still summery, but no more over 100 degree temps. These are the perfect days. Still a couple hours of light after the workday. River and lake water still mild enough to plunge into. Still able to wear my beloved sundresses. Most of all, I am still bursting with energy. Apparently I have a direct connection to the sun, one which channels energy to me like a powerline- fuel for Summer Sarah.

Summer Sarah can get up early, bike to work, work, bike to East Nasty, run with friends, hang out, then bike home. On a day off, Summer Sarah can run early in the morning, go on a waterfall adventure, swim and cliff jump the afternoon away, then spend time in the studio. I love how Summer Sarah is brimming with happiness and ready to steal every moment of the day and make it count. However, seasons change and so do I. I don't know if it's necessarily for better or worse, but I do know it is a great source of anxiety for me. I am more "hibernate-ish" in the winter. Not so sure of myself. Less extroverted. Less adventurous. That is what I know to be the natural way of things.

All that to say, here I am, at the changing of seasons knowing I too will change with the days. It seems so many people love Fall. I should love Fall. It will be lovely hiking and running weather. I should be OK with it, but instead I struggle. Every single year, at this point, I panic at the feeling of the warm summery sun fading away.

It seems biologically that I will always be like this, but I would like to adapt to the changes better. I don't want to feel such heavy dread at the end of August. I don't want to lose sight of the beauty of autumn, just because it brings us one step closer to winter. Fall lovers out there- help me! Show me your ways! I'm ready. *Actually,I'm not quite ready, give me another couple weeks:)*

World Traveler

2010-08-16T21:52:00.002-05:00

Tomato Fest was this past weekend, and part of the festival centers around art. Eastside Cycles put on a "bike art" show, for which I designed two helmets: the World Traveler and Mr. Tomato Head. World Traveler won 3rd prize!

Creations

2010-08-15T11:18:00.002-05:00

Over the summer I've created a couple window displays for a local running boutique store, Fleet Feet. One, is a birth announcement for the arrival of the owners new baby, Mason.

Another features local running events, such as the Tomato Fest 5k, and some of the cute running apparel that you could wear when you race!