Now that I have developed a definite, structured practice, I'm excited to do a month in review! It's nice to have done so much doing & being and to have such a gorgeous record of it! As some of the Sisters in Book of Days say: I have an awesome BOD! Hah! *giggles*
January has been *awesome*. I have ticked off everything on my to do list this month (including dyeing my hair pink!) and I've not missed one art spread that I intended to do. I've made connections with some of the world's most beautiful women (and one man!) through The Sisterhood of the Book, and all the losses I've suffered or the traumas I've experienced feel distant and utterly redeemed.
There is so much grace in my life.
The women (and man!) of The Book of Days programme are my greatest blessings. Here's what a few of them have had to say:
Dianna Milano: Each time I watch one of your videos it seems I learn something new. I really enjoy all of the programs you have offered that I have been a part of. My goal this year is to develop my skills and to express myself on a deeper level. It seems it is easy for me to write about how my day was or what I did, but when it comes to checking in with my self emotionally that's harder. Slowly but sure I know I will get there if I keep arting with you! I have also really enjoyed all the feedback here in the facebook group. Everyone is so thoughtful and encouraging. It's a great experience and I am so glad it's for the whole year!
Debra Bradshaw Parker: It's difficult to put into words how something as common as an altered book would end up touching so many aspects of my life. Anyone can alter a book and art journal, but Effy, you have taken me and over one thousand other sisters on a phenominal journey. It boggles my mind to think that we've only been together for less than a month. The knowledge that I have gleaned in this short time has turned my life and arting around! I am so thankful for your very informative videos and am saddened when they end and can't wait for the next one!
My past has been like a steamer trunk that I've hauled behind me through life. I purposed in my heart that 2012 was going to be the year that I *empty* the trunk and smash it to bits. Little did I know that you and your wonderful program was waiting for me when I needed it most.
Besides being an AMAZING teacher, you have shared things from your own life experiences that have really helped me deal better with my painful past. I just love the fact that as I am growing as an artist, I am also growing into a more confident and strong woman as a result of finding Book of Days.
Thank you Effy, SO MUCH, for all you've imparted into my life. ♥
Arlene Holtz: This group and working on my Book of Days journal has really brought me the feeling that I can truly do it - I can journal regularly and express myself visually as well as in words. Before this I could only admire and look at others' art journals. I have a way to go to truly break through my tendency to get "stuck", but I feel more confident now that I am changing that. It's a wonderfully supportive and fun group of people, too, and Effy truly has the capacity to encourage people to open up their own creativity. I love it!
Cathee Riggs Stegall: All I can say is... I am doing it. Working the work and making a difference in my art life...even with a background in fine art ( which is sometimes more hinderance than help! ) I seem to be learning every time I PLAY in my journal. I am learning about myself,my craft and the other women that are on this journey with me. It is a life altering ...altered Journal. THANK you Effy for being an encourager and a creating a gathering place we can all call home. A true sister hood!
Janet Smith: I am so pleased to be able to journal the ordinary. The simple things in life in a simple way, I was worried at first that everyone would be journallling such exotic and fancy live experiences in such ornate pictures and I would not be able to keep up that pace. Thankfully, Effy you have modelled that everyday stuff is ok. Thank you.
*~*~*FLINGS GLITTER*~*~*
These comments were written in response to a simple question: "Now that we've come to the end of our first month together, how are you feeling about Book of Days?" I picked just a few from among the many responses I received to give you a taste of the *gorgeousness* I am surrounded with on a daily basis.
What I've gotten out of my first month with BOD is this: I art every day except my chosen day off (Saturday). I sit down and I do it. I share it with people of like mind and spirit. I am constantly encouraged and blessed by interaction with the classiest, most talented people I've ever been in contact with. I become aware of where I need to improve BOTH in terms of my rather delayed social skills and in terms of my art skills. I am fulfilled. And now, thanks to the premium program, I get paid, too.
It is quite the delicious package!
Thank you all so much for being here with me on my journey.
Love & Glitter
Effy
