Posted 8/5/2008

Dear Friends,

I'm learning to Standup Paddle Surf  and I am obsessed! I started learning to surf last summer and because I live inland, I focus on Stand Up Paddling so that I can be on my board  whether I'm on the coast or in the middle of the country. I get scared a bit in the ocean or on big lakes when the wind is high, but I keep on learning. So why am I writing you about surfing in an art newsletter? Because I'm excited to share my experience. ( I love it so much my husband, Randall Barna and I have a SUP website and blog selling gear and sharing stories & tips.) Pushing myself to continue to grow  maximizes my creativity. And, it's fun to be consumed by something fun and playful. My sense of possibility is enriched with every small triumph.

And nurturing my sense of possibilities gives me the vision and enthusiasm to embrace life and try new things, both in my work and life. Embracing life means embracing change. One of my favorite changes to be part of is a happy wedding. Recently commissioned by a couple to paint an image to celebrate their upcoming wedding, I painted this image in my Paint Happy style. I titled it Wedding Promise. The colors, clothing and setting are personal to the couple. He's supporting the heart they embrace together as they float happily over the sea of life. I enjoy painting commissions that celebrate anniversaries and other happy occasions -- everyone is in such a great mood!

I began writing professionally a few years ago, and I'm really enjoying it. I was invited to write a biographical piece for the magazine Pure Inspiration's Summer 2008 issue. Titled, Art and Spirit, I share my story of how my art has shaped the path of my life and both echoed and lead my spiritual growth. One of the results of my journey has been to realize my dedication to make my life more artful, leading me to developing design work such as Color Consulting for homes and other buildings along with developing recipes.

I've included recipes for you that will help you save some money (a great thing in this economy), whether you're making a Brown Sugar Body Scrub or learning to make your own Artisan Bread so you can leave high-priced bakeries behind and enjoy the quality of artisan baking along with the satisfaction of making your own bread.

If you'd like to know more about my Color Consulting work, contact me, mention color consulting e-booklet in the comments box and I'll send you a free e-booklet about my service.

I hope you enjoy the remainder of the summer.

Happy Creating,

Cristina