Kelly Deeny

Day 88 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 88: Un-Bridled Emotion (Part 4)

(The original piece of fiction below is a continuation of the story written on Day 38, Day 63, and Day 71 of the pledge.)

Shari’s mind went blank as she stared into the eyes in which she once found warmth. She’d spent the past few months rebuilding her life as a single woman, a woman who Malcolm so easily tossed aside. She’d finally started to trust her instincts when it came to the opposite gender and even re-entered the dating pool.

“Hi, bud,” Malcolm replied to the young boy who clung to his waist. He picked him up and squeezed him tight in response to Jack’s impassioned hug.

Seeing the connection between the two, she thought back to the evening he proposed. The two of them sitting on the resort’s patio, staring out at the Pacific Ocean.

“I want three kids. Two boys and one girl. The girl would be the spitting image of my gorgeous wife and the boys would resemble me, of course.”

“You sure about that?”

She shook away the memory which stung with frustration. They’d had such an easy report, and she thought he’d understood her better than anyone – even her family. To be so wrong, well, it threw her self-confidence for quite a loop.

“When are you coming back, Uncle Malcolm? You promised you’d help me build my train set.”

She glared at him. It’s one thing to break a promise to a grown woman, one he claimed to love, but to a child? How dare he? She seethed with anger and didn’t try to disguise it.

“It’s getting later, Jack. Time for us to go.”

Her ex-fiancé lowered the boy to the ground and pat him on the head. “Now remember, bud, Santa’s elves are still taking notes. Keep being a good boy!”

“I hope you take your own advice,” she retorted and glared at him. She took her nephew’s hand in hers and moved ahead before her nerves started to show.

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 23 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 87 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 87: A Writing Day

I spent the majority of today writing – which really shouldn’t be surprising since I am a writer. Yet, as I sat down to write today’s blog entry it was as though my pen ran out of ink. I just couldn’t come up with anything inspiring, creative, or moving. Then I realized, “Who cares? The important part is that you WROTE today.” So true, self-motivator…so very true.

As a result, tonight’s entry is short and to the point: I’ve reached my creative writing limit for the day. Stop back tomorrow for something new and, hopefully, more creatively inspired!

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 24 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 86 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 86: Calling All Artistic Spirits

Do you know someone who’s an artistic spirit?

This blog isn’t just about my experiences and reflections, it’s also an avenue to connect with and support other artistic spirits. So, if you proudly wear that label or know of someone (a writer, sculptor, painter, actor/actress, musician, etc.) who is the epitome of art and spirit, I want to know!

Send me an email at kdeenywriter@yahoo.com with “Artistic Spirit” in the Subject line or tweet me (@kellydwriter).

Hope your new year is off to a great start!

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 25 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 85 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 85: Birds of Feather (Prompt #12 result)

The Creativity Prompt on Day 82 was as follows:

Use the photo above as a starting point for your artistic exploration this weekend. Write a story, paint a picture, create a new song, or go down by the water and sketch. Have fun creating!

{THE IMAGE ABOVE INSPIRED THE POEM BELOW.}

My friends soar by

Riding against the wind

While I stand here and watch

It looks so freeing

I think I’ll stay where I am

Why does he linger

When the rest of us fly

Does he expect us to wait

Or give him a peck of encouragement

I think I’ll keep flying

By land or by sea

We’ll arrive at our destination

Taking different paths along the way.

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 26 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 84 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 84: A Jewel of a Day

Since I spent most of yesterday writing, I decided to focus on another artistic outlet today – jewelry design!

I picked out a pendant and spent time choosing the accent beads. I went back and forth between colors until pleased with the final design. Just as I was ready to string it on the wire and attach the clasp, my young niece was ready for special girl time with Aunt Kelly.

The almost five-year-old child loves playing dress-up, which includes going through my closet and selecting one of the colorful necklaces in my collection. For Christmas this year, I gave her a selection of strung beads (flowers, hearts, and butterflies) so that she could make jewelry with me.

She brought her beads when she came over today, laying them out on the felt mat next to mine. As I strung my design, she created her own from amongst the many vibrant beads in her collection. She made a necklace for herself than wanted to make earrings for the ladies in her household. She didn’t stop at earrings for her baby sister – no, no…her excitement bubbled over when she picked out beads for a bracelet and then a necklace. According to the big sister, even though her two-month-old sis couldn’t wear the creations now, she’d have an entire set “once she’s older”.

A set for baby sister, one her herself, and earrings for mom. — A set for baby sister, one for herself, and earrings for mom.

I find great fulfillment in creating jewelry designs for adults, but seeing the joy and creative stimulation in my niece’s face made the art form all the more enjoyable today!

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 27 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 83 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 83: A Healthier Me in Mind, Body, and Spirit

A few days ago (Day 80), I wrote about my rollercoaster year that was 2014. While there were moments of stress and frustration, I also made a great many positive changes – one of which involved cleaning up my eating habits. I made a conscious choice to cut back on carbonated beverages and not mindlessly snack while watching television after 8 p.m.; some days were better than others. When I got on the scale this morning, I was elated to discover what I already suspected – my healthier choices led to positive results!

I am officially down 19 lbs. from my heaviest weight. That doesn’t mean I’m at a healthy weight; I’m not. Given my height and age I am still roughly twenty-five pounds heavier than is healthy for my body. That being said, I am thrilled with the changes I’ve already noticed. I can see the difference in my face, in the fit of my pants, and around my mid-section.

Here’s a before and after:

What does this have to do with “Art” and “Spirit”? A lot actually! In making healthier choices for my body, I’m acknowledging its importance. As I stated before, I spent more time taking care of my mind and spirit, and less caring to the needs of my body. When I see the positive changes in my figure, I feel immense pride and confidence. I’m not only cleansing my body, but also my mind and spirit. The art I create and my desire to engage in artistic ventures reflects the newfound rejuvenation.

Whenever I get stuck in a rut or am unhappy with my current state of being, I think back to when I was most confident and fulfilled. When I was 19, I left college (after only a few weeks) and started a new life. I reinvented myself. As such, I met people who mentored me, supported me, and helped me believe in myself on many levels. I applied to the local community college when I felt ready to do so, and my life changed drastically. It was like opening a door inside and allowing my spirit to fly. I took an acting class (which I LOVED) and a Health & Wellness class where I learned to track my calories and use fitness equipment. While one exercise helped my spirit shine, the other gave me a healthier outlook and body.

For the first time in my young life I felt beautiful inside and out – most of my life I only felt the prior, not the latter. I traveled to places of my choosing, went out on dates without feeling overwhelmingly shy, and wore clothes that weren’t skimpy but also weren’t frumpy. I bought makeup and got my hair highlighted. I had my nails done and even tackled waxing. I loved the young lady reflected in the mirror and the spirit that shone through.

I look back for research purposes only. I don’t want to relive the past, simply learn from the good and the bad. What did I learn? That feeling beautiful and confident comes from within first. I have the power inside to make positive changes for my mind, body, and spirit, but I must see the value in each in order to take the necessary steps. When I do, I allow the Artist within to flourish!

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 28 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 82 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 82: Creativity Prompt #12

Use the photo above as a starting point for your artistic exploration this weekend. Write a story, paint a picture, create a new song, or go down by the water and sketch. Have fun creating!

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 29 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 81 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 81: A Basket Full of Motivation

After yesterday’s cathartic blog post entry, I woke up determined to be more productive today than the day before. The changes weren’t monumental, but they were significant in helping me move forward and not stay stagnant.

I spent the past few days battling a stomach bug or mild case of the flu, which meant lots of naps, bland food, and water. It took a great deal of effort and motivation for me to go to the computer and write the blog posts for Day 79 and 80, so leaving the house to celebrate New Year’s Eve was not a viable option. Instead, I curled up on the couch with a cup of tea and lounged until midnight. I watched the NYE countdowns on TV and found enjoyment listening to the performances and seeing all the excited people crowding Times Square. Then, I thought “And you’re sitting here in your pajamas watching life happen?”

This morning I decided to start the day, and the new year, differently. I willed myself out of bed, got dressed for the day, put in my contacts instead of the glasses that barely left my side in three days, and kept active. I did laundry, worked on my novel, checked social media updates, and actually left the house.

I remained focused and set attainable goals for the day. I’m proud that I achieved what I set out to do and look forward to tackling tomorrow’s list!

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 30 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 80 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 80: A Year That Changed My Life

This past year involved so many ups and downs, both personally and professionally, that there were times I couldn’t get my footing. The artist within kept my spirit grounded when it wanted to soar and gave me wings when my dreams seemed out of reach. Through all the hurdles, challenges, and achievements, I survived 2014 thanks to a profound connection to my artistic spirit.

I started the year embracing my love of the entertainment industry, specifically film and television. I traveled to California in both January and February so that I could be in the Los Angeles area during two important award shows: the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards. (Read Day 11’s post for more info on February’s exciting trip!) I felt alive, joyful, and motivated by being so close to all the excitement. I wasn’t walking the red carpet, interviewing nominees, or sitting in the theaters, but I believed that one day I would.

That belief planted a seed that blossomed into a career change, one that wasn’t very well thought out. I resigned from a respected position in a company that I admired because I realized that if I continued along that path, my spirit would wither and die. Okay, so maybe that’s a little melodramatic but friends who know me well also know that I tend to write melodrama very well. Anyway, I decided to make the change and move to Hollywood! I was going to spend a few weeks finishing my novel, go to the local writers conference, see Broadway shows and review them on my blog, get tickets to the 2014 Tony Award broadcast, and if a career didn’t panned out here then I’d pack my belongings and drive out west. That was the extent of my plan.

A plan filled with loopholes, to be more precise. I let doubt impede my progress. Tickets to the Tonys sold out before I knew they were on sale; news so disappointing that I had to blog about it: MUSICALS TO MY EARS. I couldn’t justify spending the money on theatre tickets when I was living at home without a job, so the reviews never happened. I finished my novel but got mixed feedback, so I put it aside. Slowly, but surely, I got scared and second-guessed what I thought had been a brave decision. How was I going to earn a living? Should I tuck my tail between my legs and return to my former place of employment? Or, should I stay the course and pursue a career in the industry I’ve always dreamt being part of?

Through the summer and early Fall months, writing became my saving grace. I hit rock bottom and couldn’t see the path towards achieving my artistic dreams. I became a shell of the person I once was not months prior. Without the support of family and friends, I don’t know how I’d have gotten through such a difficult time. I needed something to keep me motivated each day – something to inspire me and help me develop my craft. And so, the 111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge came to be!

I believe very much that we are more than just our daily existence, that we have something positive and important to give. We are all creative, even though not all can see or embrace their own creativity. I wanted to share my own creativity in the hopes that it inspired others out there to embrace their own. Along the way, I realized that it was also about stimulating my own artistic spirit. I write, design jewelry, review musicals/tv shows/films, and sing. I just don’t earn a living at all of the aforementioned activities. Through this pledge, I’ve learned to embrace all aspects of the artist within.

2014 ended as it began, with me in Los Angeles. This time I went with the sheer purpose of career research; Day 59 (My Unexpected Journey). I know undoubtedly that a career in the film/tv/theatre industries is where I will ultimately find a home, but I don’t expect it to happen if I don’t put in the work to get there. I look ahead towards 2015 with hope, faith in my artistic spirit, and perseverance driving me forwards.

Here’s to a new year and new possibilities!

*DISCLAIMER: No endorsement by any of the aforementioned award shows, organizations, or affiliates implied!*

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 31 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**

Day 79 of the Artistic Spirit Pledge

111 Day Artistic Spirit Pledge: Spiritual Growth Through Creative Expression

Day 79: Something’s Bugging Me

I wasn’t originally going to post today’s entry. After all, I’ve just spent the past 24 hours doing battle with a stomach bug or mild case of the flu. Writing a blog entry wasn’t high on my to-do list.

Then I realized that I made a promise and no annoying bug was going to squash my progress.

So I don’t have anything profound or artistic to write about, but I wanted to make sure I wrote something.

Stop back tomorrow for an entry more in line with prior ones.

**I am an Artistic Spirit! For most of my life I’ve used the creative arts as a source of spiritual exploration and healing, even though I didn’t always do so consciously. Sometimes I was the instrument creating the art and other times I was on the receiving end. The connection between art and spirituality is so significant in my life that it’s infused into everything I do. I love music, theatre, television drama series (daytime and primetime), and creative writing and find fulfillment in artistic expression of various sorts: singing, acting, and jewelry design. Throughout the next 32 days, I’ll delve into how all of the above strengthens my spirit and has saved my life on more than one occasion.**