Sunday, December 25, 2016

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas! On this Beautiful Sunday Morning!!

May the Gift of Christmas  be lavishly poured out upon you this day in ever increasing lavish overflowing abundance.

Enjoy this time with your family and friends and I shall see you in 2017!

Merry Christmas!


Carol
#freedfromboxes
https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

First Day of Winter 2016

The arrival of winter brings much excitement! Will there be SNOW this year? The giddy delight and anticipation of SNOW brings out the child in many and in others~ the dreaded Cabin Fever!

While there is yet time to prepare for the arrival of cold winter days, use these lingering mild days to gather your supplies to ward off Cabin Fever. Listed below are 100+ Ideas to assist your planning of Fun Creative Adventures throughout the Long Cold Winter ahead.

100+ Ideas and Cures for Cabin Fever

1.Long Winter Nap
2. Read your favorite book
3. Watch football play offs
4. Watch a movie 
5. Play board games
6. Play cards
7. 1000 piece puzzles
8. Spring Cleaning Early
9. Crafts or hobbies
10. Bake Cookies 
11. Plan a party
12. Write letters to send to friends and family
13. Make Valentines Cards to send to shut ins
14. Phone Home
15. Doodle, draw or paint
16. Design a new flowerbed or vegetable garden
17. Order seed catalogs 
18. Steamy cups of cocoa, hot tea or coffee 
19. Clean out closets
20. Make plans for your summer vacation 
21. Knit or Crochet 
22. Sew a new wardrobe 
23. Start a quilt
24. Build a snowman 
25. Bake a cake
26. Redecorate a room in your house
27. Go for a snowy walk
28. Organize your photos
29. Visit your next door neighbor 
30. Eat sleep and be merry
31. Books on tape
32. Online shopping 
33. Watch an entire tv series 
34. Snowy photography 
35. Write a book
36. Mop the kitchen
37. Create a Bucket List
38. Take down all of your Christmas decorations 
39. Explore New Career Options
40. Research local charities to support in 2017
41. Watch Critter Cams
42. Experiment with new recipes 
43. Catch up with old friends online
44. Memorize a poem or Bible verses
45. Play a musical instrument 
46. Exercise 
47. Prepare your tax return 
48. Feed the birds
49. Play charades 
50. Learn a new dance
51. Pull out all of your crayons, markers and colored pencils and Color
52. Snow painting
53. Cold Weather Science Experiments
54. Origami
55. Cut out designer paper snowflakes
56. Play Scrabble
57. Legos are a ‘must’
58. Build a blanket fort
59. Water all of your houseplants
60. Make paper airplanes
61. Learn the art of Calligraphy
62. Picnic in the snow [or favorite room]
63. Sort change and roll coins
64. String beads
65. Read your favorite book out loud [in characters]
66. Create a year in advance family fun~days calendar
67. Get a head start on hand crafted Christmas Gifts
68. Write Winter themed Haiku
69. Learn to ‘say’ the alphabet in American Sign Language
70. Create a collection of your favorite quotes
71. Memorize all of the States and State Capitals
72. Time how quickly a pot of boiling water will freeze solid outdoors
73. Create eclectic weavings from items around the house
74. Play checkers
75. Try a new hairstyle
76. Make a list of your 10 best friends and see how many words can be created from the letters in their names
77. Sing LOUD with your favorite CD
78. Try walking backwards through your house without touching anything or falling down
79. Memorize all the Presidents and Vice Presidents in order of their years in service
80. Learn to write in ‘mirror~writing’ [backwards and in reverse]
81. What is your wildest dream? Write the steps you need to take to obtain your dream
82. Identify animal tracks in the snow
83. Invite all the neighborhood children over for a playdate
84. Host a Soup Party for the neighborhood
85. Create Ice Sculptures
86. Build Fairy Houses to be placed in your garden in the Spring
87. Paint a self portrait
88. Update your address book
89. Decorate boiled eggs for lunch
90. Create a list of everything and everyone you like
91. Have a Tea Party
92. Give yourself a manicure
93. Write, Draw and Eat all day using your non-dominate hand
94. Research your favorite animal
95. Make friendship bracelets for each of your friends
96. Go on a scavenger hunt
97. Make sock puppets and have a puppet show
98. Write a Thank you note to your favorite teacher
99. Create a collage of your favorite winter activities
100.Make a fingerprint zoo
101. Wear your dressiest clothes and Sparkle


What is YOUR favorite way to fight Cabin Fever?

~Carol #freedfromBoxes
https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Christmas Decorating is it a Science or an Art?

When do you begin decorating for Christmas?
I have friends that begin decorating in October and others that don't even consider decorating until December 18th! Personally, I'm not sure how to answer the question~ I've just noticed a fully decorated Christmas Tree that has remained on my mantle displayed for over a year! How have I not seen this tree until today??? Is it okay with you if I pretend that I just put it up for this season?

Are you a traditionalist when decorating, using reds and greens or silver and blues as your palette? Or do you work with the more vibrant colors of pinks, aqua, lime and purples? What about ornaments and other decorations~ Do you use handcrafted ornaments or those you have purchased?

Today I am filled and overflowing with questions it seems.
Below is a set of questions to propel us into the Christmas Season.

1. When do you begin decorating?
2. Do you decorate every room in your home?
3. What color palette[s] do you use when decorating for Christmas?
4. Do you use all of your ornaments every year?
5. Real tree vs artificial tree, which do you prefer?
6. Christmas lights: inside? outside? colors? or all white?
7. Do you collect specific types of Christmas ornaments or decorations?
8. Do you use a Nativity in your Christmas decor?

I'm off to the attic, the closets and under the beds in search of Christmas decorations! Thinking I will go 'simple' this year, that is until the Christmas Bug bites and then....who knows what will happen! Only 24 days until Christmas, I'd better get busy!

I need some ideas for the front porch this year~
How are you decorating your entry?


Carol
#freedfromboxes
https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Giving Thanks!

Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Feast Day! Happy Football!

Thanksgiving brings a rush of memories~ filled with laughter and tears.
Yet, Thanksgiving 2016 my heart is overflowing with the many blessings of the year.

I can't really hang out and chat today, I'm running behind on the creation of the feast. [Yep, I stayed up way to late playing in the studio last night when I should have been cooking!]

Years ago we broke with "Tradition" as in no turkey! Gasp!!
Since the break-up, every year the menu changes. This year is no different, everyone has submitted a request for entree, sides and desserts. And once again, no one has requested turkey, gravy, dressing.... Shrimp is at the top of the entree listings.

What will you be serving later today? Do you have any Thanksgiving Traditions unique to your family?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Carol
#freedfromboxes
https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Joining the American Renaissance!

Why "What Box? Living a Creative Life" and why now?

In the Beginning God Created. We as humans were created in His image, therefore, within each of us is the ability to create! We are innovative, creative, problem solvers by nature~ we can't help it, it is hard wired into our DNA. Psssssst. You are an Artist and Creative individual too!!!

Most would agree this planet we call home has a few problems. However, we all have deep within the ability when joined together to solve these issues. What has worked in the past might not work today, yet, many are afraid to try something different. Some say the world is in turmoil, these are dark and perilous times...riots, wars, unemployment, low wages, disease you shouldn't take risks, stay with the status quo, don't stir the waters. I disagree.

As a college instructor I see so many students without long range plans, without day dreams, without thoughts of the future beyond the next video game, the next lottery ticket, the next cup of coffee, the next party. Students with anxiety disorders, despondent, addictions, living in the world as presented to them by gaming, movies, media and they are void of original personal thoughts. My heart has broken seeing the great potential within yet it remains untouched.

I have for as long as I can remember been a sounding board, a listening ear, a voice of encouragement, a cheerleader, a 'mama bear' and fierce warrior defending each who enters in to my inner circle or crosses my path[sometimes, even total strangers in Walmart]...as well as...I am an artist, a writer, a dreamer, a creative soul, one who can't look at anything without seeing at least a dozen viable options. Combine that bundle of life above with my love of people and suddenly out pops what has been there all the time: I am a Passionate Artist,  a Consultant, Art Coach, Blogger, Teacher/Instructor helping others 'break out' and embrace their hidden creative abilities. I hear the sound of panic....take a deep breath and reread what I wrote.
Hidden creative abilities~ these can be artistic in nature but they don't have to be: Scientists are creative, Explorers are creative, Engineers are creative, Musicians are creative, Military Leaders are creative... this list goes on and on.

The American Renaissance! What is it? Americans coming together side by side, using their Creative abilities to solve the issues at hand here at home and globally. The Italian Renaissance famous for Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael [not the Ninja Turtles] began in Italy and circled the globe in time. Today, with social media at our fingertips, this American Renaissance will travel faster, create greater inspiration, will include many brilliant minds working together to restore, bind wounds, celebrate accomplishments while discovering new amazing solutions.

This is your invitation to join the American Renaissance!
Renaissance??? Wasn't that back in the Dark Ages, you might ask.
Simply put, Renaissance = ReBirth!
You are never to old to learn something new, to start a new career, to follow your dreams~ Are you breathing? Today is the day to let go of what has held you back.
I am here cheering you on each and every step of the way~ You've got this!!!


https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

From this Day Forward

AMERICA! The UNITED STATES of AMERICA!
We are more than the president, more than the people, greater than our differences. We are One Nation! We are Americans!
Therefore it is now time to INVEST in AMERICA!
EMBRACE America, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the people, the government. Hold your chin up, walk forth with purpose, determined to heal and bind the wounds.
 AMERICA is STILL a GREAT Nation!
Be determined to purchase products MADE IN AMERICA.
Be determined to speak ENCOURAGING words ~
If you can't say anything nice....shhhhhhh....don't say anything at all.
Be determined and sing patriotic songs, wave American flags, thank our military, and read biographies and history books of our Founding Fathers!
Be determined to be Proud to be an AMERICAN.
Breathe deep. Stretch. Reach out and support this great land as TOGETHER UNITED as ONE NATION we will go forward guided by the Constitution , the Declaration of Independence, the Founding Fathers, and yes, even the Pilgrims.
I am looking forward to Veteran's Day! A day to Honor and give due respect to our Veterans!
I am looking forward to Thanksgiving! A day set aside giving thanks to God and His mercy! A day of awe , of wonder, of food, of tradition, of football, of family....Thank you Lord for this great Nation!
I am looking forward to Christmas....A non traditional theme this year~ Decking the halls in RED WHITE AND BLUE! Patriotic Songs and Christmas Carols, Eagles and Flags and Jesus! Oh Yeah!!
I am looking forward to the cold days of January...
As a new leader, a new president takes office as he accepts the task and challenges ahead ENCOURAGING and REBUILDING America.
God Bless Each of you who took the time to read to the end of this early morning chatter.
To the Republic! One Nation Under God! United!
God Bless America!

https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

America is Speaking

America Speaking.
It is written in the WORD that they who call upon His Name shall be saved.
America is calling~ JESUS.
Therefore as it is written so shall America be saved. The WORD changes not, Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. He doesn't lie, therefore as America and any other nation calls upon His Name they shall be saved.
America Speaking.
It is written in the WORD that it is His desire that none shall perish.
His desire is that ALL shall live and prosper~ including the unborn.
America is speaking LIFE and Life more abundantly~ including the unborn.
America Speaking
America is calling~ JESUS.
Jesus, we come now before you this day broken and wounded knowing that at a single WORD we are restored and walking within Your desires, Your destiny for this nation.
It is written, that it is Your desire that none shall perish, and within the none America is included. It is also written that where 2 are gathered in Your Name You are there among them....America has gathered at Your feet.
America Speaking.
It is written, every nation, tongue and tribe shall hear and know the Name of Jesus and the message of the Gospel. America is the World's melting pot, almost every nation, tongue and tribe has crossed our borders and many now call America home. America has historically gone to nations during their time of need from this day forward as a nation, America shall go forth led and directed by Jesus and He alone and not those seeking fame or recognition.Therefore, it is now time to lift our voices in song praising the King of Kings!
America Speaking
We lift our banners high this day in worship and song praising the King of Kings! Jesus! JESUS! JESUS! JESUS! We give thanks to the King of Kings who allows us to sit at His feet in worship. We rejoice knowing that PEACE like a river shall flow once more from sea to shining sea. And across our land, LOVE has found a dwelling place.
America Speaking
To the nations we speak LIFE!
America has called upon the Name of Jesus!
Glory to God! Therefore the armies of heaven have been released upon your behalf! The King of Kings! The Lord strong and mighty! JESUS is riding upon His horse leading the way!!!
Glory! Thank you JESUS!!! You alone are LORD of this Nation, JESUS is LORD! JESUS is the Banner over America and the Banner over America is LOVE! Glory! Thanks You JESUS!!!!!!

https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016 Carol Lane Fleming

Monday, November 7, 2016

Out of the Box!

What Box? Living a Creative Life

Welcome! The journey is certain to be filled with excitement, adventure, joy and delight combined with an occasional mess, heartbreak or struggle. Embracing Creativity and escaping 'the box' takes Courage. 

Here at," What Box? Living a Creative Life", You will find Encouragement to take the steps and actions to embrace Your inner most desires. You will be challenged to Explore, Experiment, Exhausting every possibility as You Embrace and Thrive, Living a Creative Life.

Who benefits from Your Creative Life? We all do!
Every segment of the global population exists and is driven by Creativity and by Leaders willing to think "out of the box" beyond the status quo.

My story. I've held many titles in the past yet at each position my role has been best described by others as Creative, Artistic, Leader, Encourager, Nurturing. I thrive on asking questions, grasping the 'big' picture, problem solving with multiple solutions, embracing individuals while releasing them to their highest potential. I am an artist, a creative being constantly asking questions as I explore this life on planet earth.I was freed from boxes through a series of events...but this is not about me.

What Box? Living a Creative Life
I am here for You!

Carol

#freedfromboxes
https://whatboxacreativelife.blogspot.com/
#HiddenInYourheART
© 2016Carol Lane Fleming