By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
This weekend, my city held its annual, two-day, Outdoor Art Fair. The weather was magnificent and the setting was beautiful, since it was held down at the Civic Center amid the lovely fountains there. This event is sponsored by an all volunteer group – The Oceanside Cultural Arts Group. I can’t thank them enough!
I spent all Sunday afternoon there, oohing and aahing over art, pottery, blown glass, jewelry, dream catchers, etc. There must have been 100 featured artists as well as multiple food vendors, including the Knights of Columbus selling their famous hot dogs and hamburgers. I chose tacos from the St. Mary’s Youth Group.
Just prior to this event, I was mulling over how my health had changed, and how I had not been able to attend it for the last 2 years! A 10 day hospital stay ruined everything back then and I have not fully recovered my energy or walking ability. I was feeling a bit sorry for myself and asked myself “How much fun can I have when I have to get around with a walker?” That’s going to be a drag!
It’s amazing what good can happen when you have a shift in your thoughts. I told myself how lucky I was to be able to drive this year and not be stuck in a hospital bed! That did it. I’m so glad I had a change of heart because I had a wonderful afternoon. Parking was a snap, especially with a handicapped sticker. Also, I saw several others with their walkers enjoying themselves. My walker became a god-send because I could sit down and rest a few minutes if I got tired and still be amidst all the activity.
This experience also taught me to venture out to other events and not make the walker an excuse for not going! Folks are always out there to help you and share with you. That’s part of what I like about this fair. I visited “Artists Alley” between North Coast Highway and Pier View Way. There were some fantastic art pieces and pottery by folks in the military as well as senior citizens. They told me they wanted more folks to exhibit next year. Don’t you know I filled out the application and told them to count me in! Yippee! It’s back to the canvas and oils for me.
If you have a handicap I hope I’ve inspired you to overcome it and enjoy what life has to offer. Perhaps the best part about this fair is that its free! I look forward to seeing you at the fair next year!
H'm, I see a speech or two here for my Toastmaster Club!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE
By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
I am so blessed to live on the verge of what is known as the “Golden Triangle,” that encompasses the communities of Carlsbad, Oceanside and Vista. These three cities really cater to the needs of their senior citizens. They offer wonderful programs/workshops and new, on-going learning experiences, and opportunities to make new friends if so inclined.
Last month, I discovered the exciting “Carlsbad Film Series.” Not only is the series free, but before each performance we receive an excellent introduction of the cast, crew, and author. Set layouts and scenery are described along with the hazards of filming on location, etc. At the conclusion of the movie there is a question and answer period that allows you a glimpse of how others view the material, story line, and acting, etc. I enjoy this as much as the actual movie.
In February the 4 films selected were: “The Kids are All Right,” “Amelia,” “The Reader,” and “Elizabeth The Golden Age.” They were chosen to highlight the talent of today’s leading young actresses; each having won one academy award, and each being nominated several times for additional academy awards.
The first film featured Annette Bening and Julianne Moore in a funny and very modern American family. ”Amelia” based on the famous American aviatrix’s life, Amelia Earhart, who was played by Hilary Swank. Hilary gave a marvelous performance of the complicated aviatrix. I came away with a totally different impression of Amelia Earhart and find myself in the camp of those who thought she should not have continued on the last leg of her journey.
Kate Winslet played the lead in “The Reader,” and I am still mesmerized by it and still talking about it. Entertaining does not even begin to describe this movie perhaps because it is set in Europe, in post World War II where I lived. Kate’s performance is nothing short of riveting as Hanna Schmitz, a lonely, uneducated, working-class woman who has an affair with a teenage boy. Later they reconnect as Hanna goes on trial for her part as an SS guard at one of the notorious concentration camps. Sadly, it is her lack of being able to read or write that seals her doom … Ralph Fiennes rounds out this wonderful cast.
The final film has Cate Blanchett portraying “Queen Elizabeth” in this gripping, historical thriller, loaded with intrigue and betrayal. Suspense permeates the film to the very end. Cate’s portrayal of Queen Elizabeth is also riveting!.
Each week I asked neighbors to join me but sadly most were not interested. It’s another lesson in life to go solo to interesting events rather than miss them! I am so happy and pleased that I took advantage of what the community offers. Now, I am now looking forward to the next film series. We voted on whom we thought the best young male actors of today are with star quality. It will be interesting to see whom got selected and why! Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, I encourage you to check out cultural activities for folks in your communities!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
I am so blessed to live on the verge of what is known as the “Golden Triangle,” that encompasses the communities of Carlsbad, Oceanside and Vista. These three cities really cater to the needs of their senior citizens. They offer wonderful programs/workshops and new, on-going learning experiences, and opportunities to make new friends if so inclined.
Last month, I discovered the exciting “Carlsbad Film Series.” Not only is the series free, but before each performance we receive an excellent introduction of the cast, crew, and author. Set layouts and scenery are described along with the hazards of filming on location, etc. At the conclusion of the movie there is a question and answer period that allows you a glimpse of how others view the material, story line, and acting, etc. I enjoy this as much as the actual movie.
In February the 4 films selected were: “The Kids are All Right,” “Amelia,” “The Reader,” and “Elizabeth The Golden Age.” They were chosen to highlight the talent of today’s leading young actresses; each having won one academy award, and each being nominated several times for additional academy awards.
The first film featured Annette Bening and Julianne Moore in a funny and very modern American family. ”Amelia” based on the famous American aviatrix’s life, Amelia Earhart, who was played by Hilary Swank. Hilary gave a marvelous performance of the complicated aviatrix. I came away with a totally different impression of Amelia Earhart and find myself in the camp of those who thought she should not have continued on the last leg of her journey.
Kate Winslet played the lead in “The Reader,” and I am still mesmerized by it and still talking about it. Entertaining does not even begin to describe this movie perhaps because it is set in Europe, in post World War II where I lived. Kate’s performance is nothing short of riveting as Hanna Schmitz, a lonely, uneducated, working-class woman who has an affair with a teenage boy. Later they reconnect as Hanna goes on trial for her part as an SS guard at one of the notorious concentration camps. Sadly, it is her lack of being able to read or write that seals her doom … Ralph Fiennes rounds out this wonderful cast.
The final film has Cate Blanchett portraying “Queen Elizabeth” in this gripping, historical thriller, loaded with intrigue and betrayal. Suspense permeates the film to the very end. Cate’s portrayal of Queen Elizabeth is also riveting!.
Each week I asked neighbors to join me but sadly most were not interested. It’s another lesson in life to go solo to interesting events rather than miss them! I am so happy and pleased that I took advantage of what the community offers. Now, I am now looking forward to the next film series. We voted on whom we thought the best young male actors of today are with star quality. It will be interesting to see whom got selected and why! Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, I encourage you to check out cultural activities for folks in your communities!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
PRIORITIZING MY PRIORITIES!
By Shirtley M. Carolan, ATM-G
Whoa! This month is speeding by as I extricate myself from information and hobby overload! It’s OK to have hobbies, I’m all for them. They keep you amused, entertained and off the streets. They even stimulate your little grey cells and can make you an interesting person to be around! But, when they encroach on your priorities it’s time for you/me to finally take a stand.
At the beginning of the month I was primed to write three different articles on some fun things I discovered: Advanced numerology, astral projection, chakra healing (which lead to EFT) etc. Now, I am calling a halt to all extraneous “hobbies/activities” and am going to concentrate full time on my writing skills. I have so much material I want to get published… consequently, when not seriously writing I will reward myself by indulging in my hobbies!
I probably will even get more done by using discipline to do first things first (writing) and then enjoying my leisure time. When I worked full time I had no problem with discipline and getting a job done. But, retirement is a different ballgame! It’s easy to get distracted by emails pitching all kinds of wonderful new ideas and quickly falling into mind overload!
Volunteering is another matter I need to curtail if it interferes with my writing schedule. And, I do intend to establish a schedule so that I can chart my progress and outline small, medium and long term goals and deadlines!
For those of you who are interested in advanced numerology I highly recommend this website: www.Numerologist.com. Blair Gorman does a wonderful job and you can even get a mini free reading from him! Also, Kimberly Powell has a wonderful genealogy web site with fabulous resources and articles over at www.About.com. May you get hooked as much as I did!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Whoa! This month is speeding by as I extricate myself from information and hobby overload! It’s OK to have hobbies, I’m all for them. They keep you amused, entertained and off the streets. They even stimulate your little grey cells and can make you an interesting person to be around! But, when they encroach on your priorities it’s time for you/me to finally take a stand.
At the beginning of the month I was primed to write three different articles on some fun things I discovered: Advanced numerology, astral projection, chakra healing (which lead to EFT) etc. Now, I am calling a halt to all extraneous “hobbies/activities” and am going to concentrate full time on my writing skills. I have so much material I want to get published… consequently, when not seriously writing I will reward myself by indulging in my hobbies!
I probably will even get more done by using discipline to do first things first (writing) and then enjoying my leisure time. When I worked full time I had no problem with discipline and getting a job done. But, retirement is a different ballgame! It’s easy to get distracted by emails pitching all kinds of wonderful new ideas and quickly falling into mind overload!
Volunteering is another matter I need to curtail if it interferes with my writing schedule. And, I do intend to establish a schedule so that I can chart my progress and outline small, medium and long term goals and deadlines!
For those of you who are interested in advanced numerology I highly recommend this website: www.Numerologist.com. Blair Gorman does a wonderful job and you can even get a mini free reading from him! Also, Kimberly Powell has a wonderful genealogy web site with fabulous resources and articles over at www.About.com. May you get hooked as much as I did!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Monday, February 28, 2011
A MAGICAL MONTH!
By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
February turned out to be a magical month, despite a few early setbacks, which I now have a handle on. I am happy to say I’ve developed new hobbies – things I’ve been interested in for years but never seemed to have time to explore, e.g., “Astral Projection,” “Remote Viewing,” and more in depth “Numerology.” Despite having some wonderful hard cover books on numerology, I discovered a fascinating website with more data and software which, of course, I ordered. More on this later.
I’m still very interested in genealogy and am pursuing my writing career. Yesterday, I visited the Holistic Faire in Carlsbad and spent a wonderful day there. More on all these exciting pursuits coming up. They’ve certainly given me a lot of fodder for articles, blogs, and streamlining my writing in general.
Stay tuned for more!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Friday, February 25, 2011
CARLSBAD LIONS SPEAK!
By Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
It is always a joy to be called upon to be a judge at a Lion’s Club Annual Student Speakers Contest. Recently, I had the pleasure of representing my Carlsbad Toastmaster Club, Tick Talk Toastmasters in that capacity.
The goal of the contest is to encourage youth involvement, develop self-esteem, confidence in public speaking and offer financial scholarships for the formal education of the students.
The topic was “Enforcing Our Borders: State vs. Federal Rights” which is very current, relevant and challenging! Each student prepared an original, 10 minute speech on this subject which included extensive research, ideas and conclusions.
Students participating were: Samuel Gardner, Priscilla Keyrollos, and Yujia Pan. The winner was Yujia Pan who will now go on to participate at the Zone level.
Joining me as judges were: Joni Wilson, head of 3-D Voice Training System, and Annette Hubbell, a civil war storyteller. Elaine Brummell was the Chairperson for this outstanding event.
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer● Speaker● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
It is always a joy to be called upon to be a judge at a Lion’s Club Annual Student Speakers Contest. Recently, I had the pleasure of representing my Carlsbad Toastmaster Club, Tick Talk Toastmasters in that capacity.
The goal of the contest is to encourage youth involvement, develop self-esteem, confidence in public speaking and offer financial scholarships for the formal education of the students.
The topic was “Enforcing Our Borders: State vs. Federal Rights” which is very current, relevant and challenging! Each student prepared an original, 10 minute speech on this subject which included extensive research, ideas and conclusions.
Students participating were: Samuel Gardner, Priscilla Keyrollos, and Yujia Pan. The winner was Yujia Pan who will now go on to participate at the Zone level.
Joining me as judges were: Joni Wilson, head of 3-D Voice Training System, and Annette Hubbell, a civil war storyteller. Elaine Brummell was the Chairperson for this outstanding event.
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer● Speaker● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Friday, January 28, 2011
GENEALOGY GUEST SPEAKER
By Shirley Carolan, ATM-G
January certainly started off with a bang! I arranged for an expert genealogist, Margaret Read, of the North San Diego County Genealogical Society, to address my Tick Talk Toastmaster Club in Carlsbad, CA earlier in the month. It took a lot of preparation but was well worth it.
First, I designed a flyer that could be posted in public places, and sent by email to all Toastmaster Clubs in San Diego county, as well as personally hand delivering them to several businesses. Since I had an RSVP I expected to be deluged with calls.
Next I notified the news media throughout the county of the event. It was so good to see the article I wrote appear in several newspapers. I even sent it to on line media news cites.
Appropriate seating arrangements had to be made as well as tailoring our regular Agenda to accommodate a guest speaker. Refreshments were ordered, with some members bringing extra treats.
A biography had to be acquired as well as a brief introduction by myself. Also, I arranged for a “Certificate of Appreciation” to be awarded to Margaret Read by our new President, Carol Sheckler, at the conclusion of our meeting.
By opening the event to the public we felt it would be a win-win situation for both our Toastmaster Club and the Genealogical Society. Our guest speaker gave a wonderful introduction into Genealogy and was adroit at handling all the questions asked of her at the end of her presentation.
Was the event a success? You bet! Would I do it again despite all the time and energy required to handle the logistics? You bet. Anything worth doing is worth doing well. The results spoke for themselves.
If you are looking for a guest speaker on Genealogy I recommend that you contact the North San Diego County Genealogical Society through the Carlsbad Library at: 760-434-2931.
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Artist ● Speaker ● Writer
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
January certainly started off with a bang! I arranged for an expert genealogist, Margaret Read, of the North San Diego County Genealogical Society, to address my Tick Talk Toastmaster Club in Carlsbad, CA earlier in the month. It took a lot of preparation but was well worth it.
First, I designed a flyer that could be posted in public places, and sent by email to all Toastmaster Clubs in San Diego county, as well as personally hand delivering them to several businesses. Since I had an RSVP I expected to be deluged with calls.
Next I notified the news media throughout the county of the event. It was so good to see the article I wrote appear in several newspapers. I even sent it to on line media news cites.
Appropriate seating arrangements had to be made as well as tailoring our regular Agenda to accommodate a guest speaker. Refreshments were ordered, with some members bringing extra treats.
A biography had to be acquired as well as a brief introduction by myself. Also, I arranged for a “Certificate of Appreciation” to be awarded to Margaret Read by our new President, Carol Sheckler, at the conclusion of our meeting.
By opening the event to the public we felt it would be a win-win situation for both our Toastmaster Club and the Genealogical Society. Our guest speaker gave a wonderful introduction into Genealogy and was adroit at handling all the questions asked of her at the end of her presentation.
Was the event a success? You bet! Would I do it again despite all the time and energy required to handle the logistics? You bet. Anything worth doing is worth doing well. The results spoke for themselves.
If you are looking for a guest speaker on Genealogy I recommend that you contact the North San Diego County Genealogical Society through the Carlsbad Library at: 760-434-2931.
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Artist ● Speaker ● Writer
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2011 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.
Friday, December 31, 2010
HAPPY NEW YEAR - 2011!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATM-G
As we wrap up the year 2010 I can honestly say “It was a great year of learning on many different levels for me. Most importantly, I learned not to second guess anyone or any situation. I learned that stress can bring on another bout with shingles, so I need to stay cool and not let anyone push my buttons! Hence, it’s important for me to avoid toxic people and stick with those who support me and who I enjoy supporting. Finally, I am aware that Life is not a dress rehearsal!
Yes, I’ve been procrastinating on writing the great American novel. I’ve been too busy being critical of my writing style and thinking I’m not enough to be taken more seriously. What rubbish and how demeaning these thoughts can be. Now, I’m willing to launch some metaphysical/self-help eBooks that I truly believe will benefit others.
In the New Year I intend to have more fun, stop being so critical of myself, enjoy all my writing efforts, and spend more time with my oil paints and canvases because those two wonderful talents help me get centered and stay in the NOW.
All my doctors gave me high marks for greatly improved health. Much as I wanted to deny it because I didn’t reach my goal of walking 1-2 miles daily, sans walker and oxygen by Christmas. But, at least I treated myself to a walker and get around my neighborhood with my little Shih-Tzu, Krissy, just fine. This Holiday Season we were both dressed in red. When folks stopped to chat with us, I told them to be careful because “The Redcoats are coming!” This brought out big laughs and comedic talent, even from total strangers.
I can honestly say that I will look back on 2010 with benevolence and gratitude for all the people who touched my life, who helped me without my asking for help, and who encouraged me to share my gifts with others. Since, even my doctors said my new addiction, Genealogy, is a great opportunity to keep the little grey cells active, I’ve also decided to write and conduct some workshops for seniors who need to learn the blessings of being active, and getting in touch with what truly excites them. There is so much I want to share, from the lessons I’ve learned from my own life, and now is the perfect time to do that.
May 2011 be a wonderful year for you, for our planet Earth, and especially for our armed forces, wherever they may be! May this New Year resonate with peace, love and happiness for all!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
.
As we wrap up the year 2010 I can honestly say “It was a great year of learning on many different levels for me. Most importantly, I learned not to second guess anyone or any situation. I learned that stress can bring on another bout with shingles, so I need to stay cool and not let anyone push my buttons! Hence, it’s important for me to avoid toxic people and stick with those who support me and who I enjoy supporting. Finally, I am aware that Life is not a dress rehearsal!
Yes, I’ve been procrastinating on writing the great American novel. I’ve been too busy being critical of my writing style and thinking I’m not enough to be taken more seriously. What rubbish and how demeaning these thoughts can be. Now, I’m willing to launch some metaphysical/self-help eBooks that I truly believe will benefit others.
In the New Year I intend to have more fun, stop being so critical of myself, enjoy all my writing efforts, and spend more time with my oil paints and canvases because those two wonderful talents help me get centered and stay in the NOW.
All my doctors gave me high marks for greatly improved health. Much as I wanted to deny it because I didn’t reach my goal of walking 1-2 miles daily, sans walker and oxygen by Christmas. But, at least I treated myself to a walker and get around my neighborhood with my little Shih-Tzu, Krissy, just fine. This Holiday Season we were both dressed in red. When folks stopped to chat with us, I told them to be careful because “The Redcoats are coming!” This brought out big laughs and comedic talent, even from total strangers.
I can honestly say that I will look back on 2010 with benevolence and gratitude for all the people who touched my life, who helped me without my asking for help, and who encouraged me to share my gifts with others. Since, even my doctors said my new addiction, Genealogy, is a great opportunity to keep the little grey cells active, I’ve also decided to write and conduct some workshops for seniors who need to learn the blessings of being active, and getting in touch with what truly excites them. There is so much I want to share, from the lessons I’ve learned from my own life, and now is the perfect time to do that.
May 2011 be a wonderful year for you, for our planet Earth, and especially for our armed forces, wherever they may be! May this New Year resonate with peace, love and happiness for all!
Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com
Copyright© 2010 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you
.
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