the nine multiple intelligences

I have had this idea to teach people to access their own creativity for years. Recently, I began to assemble an outline of what such a class would look like. This is not a class strictly for artists. This class is for all who recognize that unleashing your own creativity allows you access to an amazing amount of brainpower. Yes, you all have the ability to be highly creative in areas of your own choosing. In my research I came across an article in the Northword Magazine by Tanya Davidson. She discusses the "nine multiple intelligences" (Howard Gardiner, Intelligence Reframed: Multiple Intelligences for the 21st Century, Basic Books, New York, 1999). Intelligence goes far beyond the IQ test! and by removing your blocks to creativity, you can access this pot of gold. Consider these: Linguistic Intelligence (word smart), Logical-mathematical intelligence (number/reasoning smart), spatial intelligence (picture smart), Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence (body smart), Musical intelligence, Interpersonal intelligence (self smart), Naturalist intelligence (nature smart), and Emotional intelligence. You are only limited by your own negative self-talk! I am putting together a series of exercises that will open up that tunnel vision to a wide, panoramic view. Should be fun!

a long and meaningful life

I am sad to share with you the passing of my Grandfather (in-law), Edwin Stewart. He reached the milestones of 93 years of life, and 72 years of marriage. His wife, the 90 year old Ethel is quite lost without him. This man touched many people with his unique brand of generosity and spiritual advice. A pastor since his mid-fourties, Ed gave fair, seasoned advice on all matters of life. He once told Kevin and me, "Never let the sun set on your anger towards each other. Be sure to resolve anything before you go to sleep that night." Following this advice has made a real difference in our marriage. Coming from a man married 72 years, its likely the best advice around. I'm going to miss his stories of childhood rescue... he and his brother once rescued a rabbit from a well using a plow horse and a rope around his waist. Well, something startled the horse and it bolted pulling Grandpa and the rabbit out of that well at high speed. He was dragged quite a ways before he could get the rope off...and his "interesting" art creations which always involved either a soldering gun or a glue gun. Once in the seniors home he continued to use his "guns" until they set off the fire alarm, alerting the staff to their presence. Even so, his cheerful countenance, and joy for living continued. May we all have the ability to "live life from the gut" like Ed did!

inspirational artists.

Two have caught my interest today; Samantha Keely Smith who is painting in New York. Her work contrasts light and dark, heaven and earth. The net does not do justice to the riches and depth she manages to get with those oil paints. And Rick Bartow whose drawings articulate feelings of fear and discomfort. He quotes an influence from Mark Chagall, but I find his work more reminiscent of Francis Bacon or the illustrator, Marshall Arisman.

this is becoming pathetic

I was hobbling around on my crutches and I stooped down to pick up some kid laundry laying on the floor; I felt a sudden burst of pain in my lower back and I fell to the ground in pain. My back has been alternating between dull pain and spasms ever since. Yesterday I had to attend a referee clinic for Karate in MacKenzie. That was very difficult. It involved lots of standing, making calls during a kumite match. I made it, but I was exhausted from dealing with the pain all day.

you were doing what?

I was participating in a secret form of martial arts exersize (basketball game for warm-up), when my right ankle folded over and down I went. I didn't even think to do a proper break fall. Now I have an ankle the shape of a softball, and bruises on the back of my head and my butt cheek. What was I saying in my previous posting about agility, flexibility...etc? I think it will be weeks before I can train as I can't even put any weight on the foot. I am using crutches to get around...it is very frustrating for me as I am always busy doing something. Sigh, this boredom shall crush me.