Category Archives: philosophy

In the middle of BEiNG ALiVE

03 Sunday Jan 2016

Posted by in Health, pets, philosophy, writing

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We have not yet entered mid-winter in the northern hemisphere and I’m already me-deep in thought.

It’s a combination of effects from the winter blahs and the desire for self-preservation. 

Winter Forest Rabbit ballpoint pen drawing

Winter Forest Rabbit ballpoint pen drawing TAJ circa 1984

I enjoyed many small gatherings over the Christmas holidays. The colourful lights, good food and companionship helped brighten the drabness. This past week has brought us much snow, packed into a very short time span.

My playful poetic plea may be to blame.

I like to think that writing can support one’s goals and dreams, help calm irrational fears while providing a form of therapy. Sometimes you wish you could write harmful influences and memories out of existence, then compose works that inspire and help reunite you with others.

Those in the know are familiar with our family’s history, the struggles due to one disturbed individual. I am very thankful for past and recent support from family, friends and protective agencies. I am curious about the deafening silence from others. 

This winter break has also provided opportunities to putter around le petit apartment when venturing outdoors is not an option – nor a necessity 🙂 

black cat looking out window comic bubble i'm bored

The cats are bored

The cats are starting to get cabin fever, not being able to visit the balcony. At least they can watch the critters from inside the windows.

These furry roommates have provided me with comfort and welcomed distractions over the years through photography and comic bubble inserts while being unwitting channels for my quirky sense of humour.

Black cat beside Egyptian tree of life print with birds

Snuggles and the Tree of Life print (2012)

I really like my Tree of Life print on Egyptian papyrus. The Tree of Life is a symbol that has come up frequently over the years. It is present in my novel, was the title of an odd, artsy movie in 2011, and has been recorded in different mythologies for thousands of years.

Tree of Life Egyptian print

Tree of Life Egyptian print

I am intrigued by the Egyptian Tree of Life myth and the explanations for the illustration with birds perched on branches, representing different stages of human life.

Spreading my wings and chirping politely, I celebrate new life and the milestones shared with family and friends. I welcome the promise this new year brings. I admire how some Parisians chose to celebrate the new year’s arrival in defiance of fears, and without the unnecessary explosions from fireworks.

To sum up: One can be vigilant while not letting fears sour the enjoyment of life. 

I am in the middle of being alive artistic play on words

I am in the middle of being alive  TAJ

Thanks for dropping by and… Happy New Year!

T

2015 deep blonde thoughts in review

02 Saturday Jan 2016

Posted by in community, philosophy, Warm fuzzy, writing

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Hey! Thanks to the visitors, Likers and commenters on this blog in 2015. I am touched – virtually.

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2015 annual report for this blog.

Here’s an excerpt:

A San Francisco cable car holds 60 people. This blog was viewed about 1,800 times in 2015. If it were a cable car, it would take about 30 trips to carry that many people.

Click here to see the complete report.

Whimsy of the pen

07 Monday Sep 2015

Posted by in Art, philosophy, writing

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Regular readers of this blog likely notice that my posts range from deep thinking and reflection to those attempting wit through lifestyle commentary.

Previously, I introduced you to the Wisdom of the Lens, an interesting book about philosophy through black and white photography.

In a relaxed Labour Day atmosphere and in-between communal laundry room trips, this intermittent writer lets whimsy take over and introduces you to one of my past loves – or once-loved pastimes: drawing.

While reorganizing le petit apartment this long weekend, I got distracted with that large white box containing my children’s sentimental craft work and my own creations from many years ago.

I chuckled at the cartoon-like pen and ink drawings.

Cartoon drawing of magician's rabbit

Revenge of the Bunny Pen and Ink Circa 1983

At one time in my creative, idealistic youth, I thought about writing and illustrating children’s books. I even had an idea for a farmyard environment.

What happened? 

drawing of cartoon milk cow

Bessy the uncooperative milk cow Pen and Ink circa 1982

Reality set in, I doubted my abilities after being rejected from a commercial arts college program, and soon put away my brushes and pens.

As a karmic compensation, I landed an office job that offered work and constant learning in the ever-evolving world of Information Technology. This option probably pays better than that for a starving artist. It sure helped with supporting my family, surviving as a single parent and raising three beautiful young people.

At least I got to satisfy my creative desires during craft time with my children. Those were the wonder years.

As I scan the distant horizon and plan for my retirement, I am letting myself dabble in water colours and embrace creative outlets for visual art.  In the meantime I can use my talent and resources to support young artists in their endeavours.

Regardless of the work you choose, or work that chose you, here’s wishing you a relaxing, reflective Labour Day.  Enjoy these work-related songs, thanks to CBCMusic.

Thanks for dropping by.

T

About me:  I work full time in an office environment. In my spare time I write, photograph my cats and dabble in water colour paints. In 2011 and under a pen name, I published a bittersweet novel through Smashwords titled The Year of the Rabbit; it’s a novel about Fate, Family and Forgiveness.  It contains many themes like family, teenage pregnancy and belief systems.