Sorry to say farewell to 2015

Every year has a theme, and I wasn't too sure how to label 2015. It was a year filled to the brim with new experiences, new places to explore, old memories to dig up and reassess, and moments that truly reveal my character. I had some really scary moments this year when I had to act fast, and moments to sit back and let people take me where they want to. There were things I couldn't change and had to accept. It was a year to let go.

I visited more new places this year than any other year; crossing off North Carolina, Rhode Island, Washington DC, Florida (outside of my childhood vacations in Orlando), Mississippi, Alabama, and New Orleans Louisiana. We stayed at the COSM in New York State and recorded in a Cave in Virginia.  I can't wait to cross off a few more in 2016!

It was a year to appreciate.  There were times this year when I felt fear I had never felt before because those who are closest to me had been hurt or really sick. I am so SO grateful that everyone's ok.  Although these moments came and went, the residue of those feelings stayed with me. I try not to take anything for granted.

Finally, at the age of 27, I finally learned why certain things happened the way they did in my life. It was a revealing year.  I had been so naive all these years and now I understand my behavior, fears, and wants because I unlocked so many memories growing up. I've been reading "The Glass Castle" and I really appreciated the statement in the beginning,  "Interesting people tend to have an interesting past."

I learned to cope with all this overwhelming information by focusing on a new skill, craft, and process- spinning.  In connecting with this very old process, I found some inner peace.

It was a year to enjoy the process of learning. Since I'm teaching Media Arts and Art History this year, I had a lot of refreshing and learning to do! Between the hours spent reading in cafes and libraries, visiting museums, and skyping with professionals, I rekindled a desire to learn.  Teaching myself has been a very rewarding and exciting process. 

This was a year to share some beautiful moments with Daimon.  We went on a long-awaited honey moon road trip back in February, went on two mini tours with our friends to play out of state, and won an Asbury Music Award.  We have a lot of fun together and he's my hansom partner in crime.

Daimon's always the driver so I can work on projects, look out the window and take pictures!

I didn't want to leave out that it's been a productive year for the people in my life. So many are making sacrifices to pursue their dreams in the arts. All of them are doing what they want to do. A few moved from familiar places to be reunited with loved ones or to soothe their wanderlust. And a few started their own businesses. A few even got engaged and are making plans for 2016! We're watching our friend's baby grow up so quickly too! It's like I'm soaking up the sun rays from these powerful stars who know where they want to be.  I'm proud and excited beyond words to hear what the next steps are for them. Whether they're heading west to work in the film industry, or making money on the road playing for strangers and making new friends, I'm glad to say that we're all not collecting moss, yet we do a pretty good job sticking together.

Jewelry made by Salt and Steel.  Oh, you didn't know that the Homeless Apians invaded Germany this year?

2015 will be a tough year to follow, but with the trips we have planned and our aims for the next studio recording, I have no doubts it'll be a great year. Wishing you a....

Small Business of December

December's featured small business goes to...

This girl might have scrawny arms and little hands but don't let that fool you! She's not only knowledgable about using the torch, fusing metals, and making casts but she can bring her skills and equipment to events, festivals and instructional programs. Tiffany Asraf, founder of her small business Salt and Steel, has had an eye for jewelry design since childhood. Jewelry making and collecting is in her family lineage and her heirlooms have inspired her aesthetic.  After lots of experimenting, completing courses from Montclair State University, and collecting jewelry over the years, Tiffany has created her own unique designs fusing gold and silver together. I fancy these rings so much, and they're only $25 on her etsy page.

This beetle cast ring can be made in silver or brass.

It's obvious that Tiffany's art and jewelry-making are closely related; you can see elements from her jewelry design in her artwork and visa versa.  Tiffany's art can be found on her blogspot.

Tiff is going away on a retreat in January and will return in the spring. Place an order for the holidays or revisit her etsy page after Memorial Day :)

http://www.etsy.com/shop/saltandsteel

Small Business of October

October's small business goes to.... 

Eric, founder of Atomic in 1999, started a small business that turned into a culture center 10 years later; bringing together local musicians, artists, collectors, and appreciators.  New artists have a chance to build a reputation thanks to Atomic, making this venue an important staple in my community.  I'm inspired by Eric and his partner Maureen because they give artists a chance- Atomic was the first store to have my artwork and Skullboy's work for sale, who now has had great success as a local artist. And he allows local bands to sell their demos without taking a cut of the band's profits. Why? Because he cares more about creating a network and has faith that this philosophy will "profit" his business in a more rewarding way; giving back to the community, protecting a freedom of speech, and encouraging the youth to participate in their local culture. Because this largely defines the purpose behind the store, I'm proud to support the business and what it stands for.

Atomic has a lot of everything to say the least. It's an experience just to walk through the door.  Vintage clothing, records, cds, jewelry, comic books, handmade items, art, vintage furniture and lots of little chotchkies saturate every little nook and cranny of the store. There's even has a whole shelf dedicated to mini versions of Godzilla! I love the handmade jewelry by Tess Bungay, a local crafter who uses plastic foods for earrings and necklaces; now you know where I got that ketchup packet necklace! You can find Elevator Art and the Amboys ep's too.

Atomic is the only store that has Creative Coop pillows, including these eyeball pillows, requested by the owner.

I always find the most unusual items.. I think I have to go back for that seashell Christmas scene.

Here's 3 of my favorite finds from Atomic.  I bought the purple and blue dress for $8, the wishing well earrings (one of my favorite finds!) for $8, and the black and red skirt for $4.

Atomic has some great, affordable items perfect for any halloween costume you've been planning, and be sure to check the links below for event details. Atomic hosts drum circles, artist meet & greets, and themed costume parties every other Friday.  It's conveniently located on Arnold Ave. in Point Pleasant just 2 storefronts away from Green Planet and a few blocks from the beach. Free parking too! Try a local business first before rushing to walmart!

Window Display by Richie Brown

https://www.facebook.com/atomiccds
http://www.atomiccds.com/