November 18, 2010

Art Finds Friday - November 19, 2010



1) BOOKS

Last night I left the comfort of my home, my kids in care of daddy and went to Houston to a book signing  - Chris Guillebeau's book 'The Art of Non-Conformity'. I have been enjoying his blog for a while, he talks about leading a life that is outside the norm, doing what makes us really happy all in the context of service to others. I think that as a homeschooler it is inevitable that I would be a part of his audience. I like to listen to what he says and then apply it to my life as an artistic mother. Chris spoke for a while last night and then opened it up for Q&A, which was good, but to be honest I would have preferred to hear more from Chris, he has some interesting thoughts and ideas.


It was fun being there. I got to meet Chris, have my book signed and I met a few other bloggers. It was fun to be around folks who talk the same blog speak and know about things like Seth Godin and NaNoWriMo, stats and traffic and all that. I briefly spoke to author and blogger Karen Walrond, who was the host of the meeting.

I enjoyed watching this video Crystal Street put together of one of his meetings in North Carolina, it made me not so nervous about attending the one in Houston.


The Unconventional Book Tour stops in Durham, NC. from crystal street on Vimeo.

Videos are a powerful medium. I am in the process of creating one to talk about my book. It is a lot harder than I thought. I have given myself a Christmas deadline.


2) INTERVIEW

Please visit me at Stephanie Levy's blog. She interview me about being an artistic mother and has posted it on her blog yesterday. I am sure she would love to hear from you. If I remember correctly I actually got the interview because I left a comment on her blog one time I had wandered over, so you never know what can come of saying hello!

 
3) FOLLOWER LOVE and POETRY

I about fell over when I saw a man's name in my 'follower' list! Joel of Wildberries signed up and I am so glad he did. He has a downloadable journal fantasy, poetry and art called 'Wildberries Journal of Mythic Fantasy'. You may not be as into poetry as I am, but the art on p6s 6 and 17 by Christina Cairns is worth a look.

I am just over 800 followers now! Thank you, where did you all come from? It amazes me when I step back and think about it. I appreciate you visiting and letting me know you hear me. Nothing better than that for the writer soul in me. 


4) MUSIC

The man can sing. When you first listen to Jack L, you have no idea the amazing voice that is to come. I got to see him in concert in a pub in Ireland the summer before last, he was an amazing performer.

Here he is singing 'Rooftops' live with Dublin behind him:



And here is another lovely Irish singer, Lisa Hannigan. She used to be with Damien Rice, but has since become a singer in her own right.





5) ON MY TO DO LIST



1) Hang out with this cool, happy baby & his siblings.

2) I am going to focus on writing poetry for the remainder of this month. I will write everyday. This is my accountability. This, me announcing it. Here. Even on Thanksgiving day. Especially on Thanksgiving day!

3) Take next week off from blogging for Thanksgiving. So see you 11/29.

Please leave me a comment to tell me how I am doing with my new blog schedule, I am, again, rethinking it! My blog is like a tinker toy I just can't leave alone. I am seeking a balance between speaking in my own voice/way/content and giving my readers what they want. It is not an exact science!

12 comments:

  1. Hey Shona! Thanks so much for writing this up... so quickly! It was great to see you last night and I appreciate you making the trip.

    All the best to you and your family.

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  2. Hi Shona - glad to be helping the balance of the genders here on your blog! :) I was quite excited when I saw your web site and heard about your book, as it is up to every creative person to find the best way to integrate their creativity into their day-to-day lives. Who ever they are, whatever their role and whatever their gender, it's a big challenge. We need more blogs like yours that help to lead the way for others.

    Happy that you enjoyed reading the e-zine and hope you'll tune in to future issues!

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  3. Hi Shona

    I read your interview. Loved it!! I love your work and especially your photographs. Keep up the great ideas!! I will have to check out your book. Lesley Grainger :)

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  4. so nice to meet you via stephanie's blog. looking forward to exploring your book!

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  5. Glad you made it to see 'The Art of Non-Conformity' talk! Sounds like it was a great evening with an interesting guy. & Loved the interview with Stephanie. So insightful, as always.
    Thanks for sharing the music. Jack L's voice is mesmerizing & I could listen to Lisa H all day.
    Oh my, that photo of Max is perfect! Made my day!
    Look forward to seeing you online after Thanksgiving! Enjoy the break.

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  6. How cool - I am a subscriber to Chris' blog as well - though I don't think he's reached this part of the country yet.
    Thanks for the wonderful links and music and, as a writer, I congratulate you on your commitment!!
    best,
    patti

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  7. always enjoy stopping by your blog Shona. I have been tinkering with the idea of buying Chris' book. I also really enjoy Lisa Hannigan - a new find for me. Enjoy your holiday...

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  8. Ok, Jack L did not do much for me, but I LOVE Lisa!!! I love when you share the best bits of Ireland with us!

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  9. Hi Shona, How exciting to have a book signing and meet other bloggers! I wish I could have been there. :o)

    I hope to get to watch your videos soon, but Tim is almost finished practicing his cello..and then we can visit, so I have to go in just a minute.

    I just wanted to let you know that your blog looks just fantastic! I really think it is a great new style; very clean, simple, and professional. And I can't wait to hear more of your poetry. You really write beautifully.

    I just posted about the blogger meet up at La Madeline's this evening. I would have done it sooner, but like you, I'm trying to maintain the proper balance between blogging and family life. It really is very tricky!

    Love you,
    Donna @ Comin' Home

    PS. Max looks SOoo darling! I just want to squeeze him!

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  10. you've listed so many things here i cannot wait to check out! thank you for sharing so much inspiration!!!

    -juliette

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  11. So glad you had a good time - it is a beautiful post. AND congrats on 800!!!! HOW cool is that??
    I wanted to wish you and your beautiful family a very happy Thanksgiving, xoxo

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  12. Hello, Shona! So happy to have found you (circuitously...is that a word), via Stephanie Levy's interview of you. Found her interview of you view her interview of Aimee Dolich. So inspired!

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