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Prompt Box: March 20, 2012

 

 

 

"What was the last book you read?" 

Books. I feel like there has been five or six of them in the last couple of months that I've read at least half-way through. Yes, only half-way. Does that ever happen to you? Reach page hundred, and then "what's that? A new book? Yes, please!" And then on to the next subject. I'm easily pursuaded by the barrage of non-fiction books at the local library, especially those found at the new arrival section. Sometimes, if one is lucky, a new "handmade/craft" publication will pop up. I usually grab it, look through it, and if I love it, bring it home.  Though, the last book I read hadn't anything to do with the subject of crafting. In deals more in the personal journey of loss and the "difference between meaningless pain and the manifestation of understanding and wisdom" - and is appropriately titled, "Grieving Mindfully" {Sameet M. Kumar}. 

So far, I have found the book to be fascinating in regards to the subject of grief. Actually, one of the reasons I picked it up is because I feel I've reached a stagnation point in my grief journey. I've fallen into an "inbetween" stage that is about to propel me forward, where there are all kinds of enormous unknowns. Before I step foot in that direction, there are a couple of prepatory items I'd like to take care of, self exploration included. I'm hoping that by reading more about mindfullness, I'll have gained some tools to help prepare for the future and also, to fully embrace the person I am today. 

Now it's your turn...What was the last book you read?

Prompt Box + Q & A

Q & A. Instead of project life, I'm working on a "Prompt" box . What exactly is it? It's a culmination of daily questions and individual-based responses from the perspecitive of both art, and journaling.  The idea came to me a month ago after locating this fascinating journal, Q & A, at a local Barnes and Nobel store. I'd seen it before, but hadn't thought to bring it home with me. Inside, listed on each page, is the date, a self-exploration question, and five response areas. The instructions insist that you keep the journal a total of five years and for each one, answer all 365 questions. It's then suggested that you go back and compare your answers from year to year.

I think the overall concept of the journal is fantastic, which is why I'm using it to create a "Prompt" box. Inside the box, are going to be visual and verbal "response" cards to some of the questions that cross my path while working on the journal.The front of each card is purely decorative - it's an open area to take on a question using a more hand-on's, artistic approach. The question itself and the coinciding response, is located on the backside. Also listed, is the date. After the card is completed, it's tucked into the box along with the others. Once the clear,cube shaped box is beyond capacity, another is added, same color, shape and style. :)

Box Purchasing Source: The Container Store

 

The clear box was inspired by a recent trip to Stillwater's Mara Mi stationary store. While perusing the gorgeous store, I ran across a costly clear acrylic box that was no where near my budget, but was absolutely beautiful! I thought to myself that maybe I could justify the expence if I used it in an exceptionally personal way via a series of something. Still, the price seemed unreasonable, so I let the idea go..until...two minutes later, I ran into a much cheaper version of almost the same thing at the very same store. Lucky Lady! No questions asked, I bought it.

 I had planned on jumping into the cards tonight, but way beyond the midnight mark :-) Instead, I'll rejoin you in another day or two and give you a full peek at what I've done so far! Questions + Answers included! Here's some more prettiness to hold you over until then...night everyone!