It is hard to believe that 2009 is almost over, that said it’s also amazing the inspiration that continuously flows through redbubble, EMI and MIA quite consistently. Thereto, the intentions behind this issue…
Firstly, our deepest gratitude to Esther Johnson for providing us the cover image (Out of the Blue and into the Light), a seemingly fitting design for an award issue.

Secondly, thanks to ShadowDancer for her tireless efforts in bringing to you the best interviews with BurntBlue, Linaji, Lori Smaltz and Atomikboy, besides her own Top Ten picks for 2009. Mindy McGregor’s top ten photography pics Steve Harvey’s T- shirt design pics and Rouble Rust picks Black Xmas’ top picks too.
Thirdly, it is probably obvious to you now that this issue will be focusing on The Best of 2009 and you would be correct in that assumption… We will also be VOTING for the ‘newbie’ of the year, involving the SCOUTS !!
So, kick back and enjoy the “Award Show” – open your eyes to the wonders, your ears to the sounds, we’ll even tempt your taste buds with a few heartsmart recipes for your entertaining endeavors.
Lastly, I’d personally like to thank Mark aka Earthmonster for his brainchild and including me in his passionate pursuits to EXPRESS all of our CREATIVITY.
The staff at EMI wishes that 2010 will be a joyous and peaceful new year! tk

December 28, 2009 8:26AM CST- Later today we will unveil the 2009 EMI Artist of the Year, The Winners of the EMI Awards for Best Images of the Year, 2009 in Pictures – a salute to great images of 2009 from EMI-The Group and all New Features.

~Earthmonster

She’s anything but conventional, she’s always provocative and her work is absolutely stunning. She calls herself…Middle aged, middle sized, middle income mother of two, wife of one, sister to 8, sister-in-law to…ummm…runs out of fingers…aunt of hundreds…oh yeah, and she takes a couple of photos occasionally.

The incomparable Mel Brackstone is the 2009 EMI Artist of the Year.

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We could show Mel’s work for days, we chose only a few to display. Mel Brackstone is the consumate artist both behind and in-front of the camera. Never bashful, always tasteful and sometimes shocking describes her best. I have had the honor of viewing her work, learning about her techniques and being a collaborator with her. Above all else she is a professional and I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to work with Mel and hope to again in the future. We should all feel privileged to have Mel grace our group.

~Earthmonster

AfterCapture Magazine

Make sure to visit her website for more information.

or on her Redbubble pages here.

The unhidden TALENTS of Mel by TKRosevear

Admittedly, I have just recently added Mel to my watchlist, however she does belong to several groups that I host, so I have had the pleasure of running across most of her amazing photographic delights to the minds’ eye. Her courageous spirit inspires my ’shy’ nature, with her “No holds barred” attitude in her “Study of aging skin” series which deserves applause and accolades, as too many females are ashamed of our beautiful earthsuits. She mixes it up with other artists in endeavors like “Now here’s my dark side” gallery showing at Tap Gallery in OZ (Midori Furze, CJ Lewis & Rose Moxon); she collaborates her artistic abilities with many RB’ers like: textureofthesin, cliff vestergaard, naomi frost, paul vanzella, earthmonster and clipics; she inspires writers and artists alike, to go beyond their norm into the creative expressionism of Mel’s world (ArcadiaTempest, Matt Penfold, Rhana Griffin, lightsmith & adriana glackin); she has received a “Silvershotz Folio” within the pages of this Black & White Fine Art Magazine that a few bubblers (like pilgrim) coerced her to submitting her ’study’ series. Remembering my own grandfather’s hidden ‘Betty Page’ photos in his workshop was prompted by Mel’s series of Miss Bertie Page, and in further investigation I came to find Mel has published a photo-book with blurb called, “Presenting: Miss Bertie Page” – a 30 page photo extravaganza of model and photographic genius in rare form. She was also a major player in RB’s test calendar – “Voyeur 2009″ which included models and photographers from RB. Whether she shoots a landscape, a beachfront, sunrise or sunset, you’re guaranteed to being awestruck. Her house shots look like they should be part of a movie background and her car shots put some ‘guys’ to shame. The black and white’s she produces are of quality’s that I certainly haven’t measured up to achieving (yet). Three of my favorite Mel – works are: ‘The musician #2″; “Liquid Gold”; and, “Blind Justice” and they aren’t on this page, so I’m hopeful that you go to her site and really LOOK at what she’s offering us all in heART. TK Rosevear

NOTE: Photograph above is Paul Vanzella’s, from a visit the two had last year (recognize the pic in the background?)

Best of EMI for 2009

“Inferno”

By: Lilith

As Judged By: Earthmonster

Lilith told me “Inferno” is one of her favourites and it has a special meaning.
To her it speaks of surrendering to love. That’s why she sits on a chair and that’s why her head is leaning back my hands are behind the chair. She says she wanted to show the great power of that. Surrendering and being in great power at the same time. To her that greatest power of womanhood. So that is why her hands are not really tied on in the image but it has the suggestion that they are. She also wears a red dress, the color of power.
Soft and strong at the same time. So much more pure (to her) than all kinds of masks and defense mechanisms. The background symbolizes the force of love (red…heat… are male powers). But can also be seen as the struggles or bad things in life that everyone encounters. Surrendering or “going with the flow” and not fighting back all the time… is strength. It is a self portrait, her friend Ton made the background with the fire so it should be considered a collaboration.

“Inferno” is not for everyone, it is edgy, it is sexual and it might make some uncomfortable. But no one can deny it’s power, the treatment and use of color. The subject should make you feel uneasy.

For me it was exactly as she described it, so she accomplished the job with ease. It made me feel as though I wanted to climb into the picture. It is to me, a control image and I think it’s the “Best of EMI in 2009″.

“The Musician #2″

By: Mel Brackstone

As Judged By: TK Rosevear

As I gazed deep into the beauty of this photograph, I could hear “Kismet” played by BOND…a grandmother’s dream comes alive and my mind’s eye sees our granddaughter performing a violin concert in a symphony hall… Music is a huge factor in most of my own creations, but I am also inspired greatly by others’ works that bring a song, a vision or a dream alive. Most of Mel’s heART does this for me, but this particular piece touched my soul deeply. TK

Walk the line, between the light and dark.

By: Nic Burgess

Judged By: Jake Skidmore

Walking the thin line between good and evil, setting the stage in black and white was pure genius, The line between right and wrong is not always so black and white. Great execution makes this my choice for “The Best of EMI for 2009″.

“No Title 94″

By: Headcrime

As Judged By: ShaowDancer

If there was an artist that could capture those thoughts that I keep in the back of my mind, far back, the ones that I never share with anybody, it would definitely be the one and only Headcrime. When I first saw this piece, to be honest, I felt molested. I know it sounds strange, but it was as if someone had literally gone into my mind and stole some authentically copyrighted and secret ShadowDancer thoughts. Headcrime is a master of collage and photo manipulation that, as his name suggests, crawls under your skin up into your brain stem. The way this traveled deep into my inner core makes this my choice for “The Best of EMI for 2009″.

“Wizard Endor Series”

By: JRGarland

Taken from 23 in Wizard Endor Series

As Judged By: Earthmonster

The Gypsies

Heading across the soft rolling hills of Eastland, Endor leisurely rides along with BW sitting beside him and TK flying above. After the harsh dealings at the monastery behind them, they had decided to take the long way home again. A slow ride through the open countryside was just what they needed before getting back to the humdrum daily tasks that lay ahead.

Up ahead was a small village that seemed very quiet and pleasant. Endor decided that a real bed would be much better than sleeping under the stars, so he went in to find an inn. There they could get a hearty meal and catch up on the latest in town.

As they arrived in the village they came across an inn called “The Pony Express.” It seemed to be a popular place with lots of people inside. They went in and inquired about a room. The inn keeper told them that most of the rooms were rented, but had a small room with enough space for their needs. Endor graciously accepted the room and paid the gentleman for one night. After settling in, TK flew off to find her meal while Endor and BW went downstairs for their meal.

On the way down Endor could smell the stew and his mouth watered at the thought of it. BW had her heart set on a bowl of grain and some cheese. As they sat down to eat the barkeep noticed Endor’s robe and asked if he was a wizard. Endor said, “Why yes I am. How may I be of service to you?”

The barkeep replied, “We have a wizard here by the name of Bevens. He has been a bit low these past couple of weeks. Perhaps you could cheer him up a bit.”

Endor said, “I would be happy to lend a hand. Where might I find him?” (more)

Silent Cries

By: Laurie Search

As Judged By: Steve Harvey

“Finis”

By: Martin Muir

As Judged By: Victoria Antoine

“Unreachable”

By: Martin Muir

As Judged By: Mindy McGregor

There is something so moving about it. The image instantly drew me in as I was looking through the group. The eyes are haunting, and they can almost make you feel the pain and sorrow.
Well thought out piece of art. I am deeply moved by this piece.

It is my great privilege to announce, award ( and grin from ear to ear) to the best of the best Writing in EMI… Drum roll please…

The award goes to JRGarland with his “Endor the Wizard” series, a fantasy story that’s characters are based upon fellow redbubblers. In my ‘Toppers’, or top ten picks, the image that inspired JR’s storytelling extravaganza…

JR submitted 23 chapters to the saga of the Wizard Endor with his trusted sidekicks, TK the Owl and BW the mouse (TK is obviously myself and BW is bluewhite), each chapter building in wisdom, fantasy and the ultimate good verses evil theme. Each chapter also added new characters – Kings, Lords, Ladies, Princesses, Proconsular, Sirs of redbubble like pamela phelps, autumnwind, CassidyJK, RebeccaWeston, Kristen Reynolds, Christie Moses, Rhinovangogh, sunnyT, erich beimer, lisa jewell, CanyonWind, William Bell and Raymondoantonio. Each chapter leaves you wanting for more adventure with the elves, faeries, dragons and wildlife helpers, a story that JRTolkein would surely be proud of from beginning to end.
Recently speaking with JR, he has plans to self-publish on Lulu.com and is contemplating illustrators and was quite smitten with his recent receipt of a JWBaker commission of JR the Wizard Bard.

These works are truly worth the read and I’m so looking forward to seeing it in print, I can also assure you that it won’t be the last that you hear from JR, or myself for that matter.
Our deepest gratitude to bluewhite for the use of her photograph of JR, and especially to JWBaker for sparking JR into the world of creative MAGICK…

Endor the Wizard

Abandoned at birth by a warrior’s creed
Left unto the woodland’s elves and fairies
Who raised him in all of nature’s wonders
Giving gifts of magic in wondrous spells

Grown to a man he set off on adventure
To learn the ways of humans in due time
He came unto a village far beyond the horizon
Where people gathered from all around

Most of the villagers were friendly enough
Though they all stared at this strange sight
Of a man in a long dark green rob and staff
With a pointed hat who seemed to talk strangely

Soon everyone murmured amongst themselves
Wondering who this stranger was in their midst
Fear crept in when they all saw him talking
To the animals who did his biddings as he went

They circled around him shouting bitterly
And he knew that a show of power was needed
To stop them from doing him any harm
He slammed his staff and shouted; “Be still!”

The ground shook and they all fell to their knees
Then a small boy walked up to him and asked;
“Who are you and why have you come here?”
He said; “I am Endor, the Wizard from afar.”

“I have come to learn your ways and offer my
Skills in return for your kindness, but I see
That kindness is not a part of you, so I’ll leave
You to your most miserable selves instead.”

The boy cried out; “Please sir, don’t be angry.
We are growing hungry because there has been
No rain and our crops are failing. Soon we will
Be without food to eat and winter will soon be here.”

Endor looked around and saw the fear in them
And said; “It seems that I must show you my
Kindness, that your fears may become at rest.”
Then he raised his staff and murmured some words

And the rains began to pour. Then he stretched his
Hand and vowed his friendship and the people began
To shout with glee. They offered him a house outside
The village where he may come and go as he pleased.

The years passed by and many wonders were told.
Prosperity filled the land as Endor made good his promise.
He wandered the lands between woodland and village
Bringing peace to both worlds now at hand.

©JRGarland 2009

The reason for choosing JRGarland was not because I was part of the story, but because these writings emanate the energy, spirit and endless possibilities that coming together in community brings…

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Nail my colours to the mast

sitting in the dark
fastened my gaze on the walls
the picture is askew
badgered myself
the dead issues
heart and mind
were contending for power
nights bait the pentagram
so far I refused to nail my colours to the mast
heart embarks on a quest
tackled a blaze
pilgrim conceived of as sacred
distant ignorant
has a passing acquaintance with soul
time had gone out with the ark
stole my thunder
extinguishing the sun
secluded virgin coves
haven’t obeyed the voice, and kept charge,
commandments, statutes, and laws
perish the thought
violated a taboo
advice fell on deaf ears
forbidden fruit knocked the socks off the pilgrim
couldn’t obey the Sabbath Commandment
constitutes blasphemy on the Sabbath day
denied the accusation that had ignored the laws
shall perish?
or will never be forgiven?
might be forgiven for doing
unforgivable sin?
and purify from all unrighteousness
word of God clearly reveals them to be untrue
this systematic mystifying of men’s minds
blasphemy on the Sabbath day
will never be forgiven?

© Ushna Sardar

STASIS

brittle air shatters
raining sky upon the fields
where hope lies
scattered amongst the reeds
barren furrows of compassion
hardened and dry
footprints to new horizons
trampled beneath the dust
primal seeds await
the final dessication
of forgotten sons
born
on the spines of rabid beasts
feeding dreams to the wind
as nightmares shackle
those who would ride
in wild abandon
the days of valorous tales
the power of words
from sharpened tongues
plucked out by gods
on crimson pillows
lamenting sweeter fruits
while bejeweled fingers
strum a song
a tinkling of tarnished bells
melancholic notes
tell of fermenting divinity
consumed
by the indigo eye
cast through a crystal prism
seeking answers to the why
lives are shaped
left unlived
potential nullified
intentions raped
in fearful absolution
of relinquished pride

© butchart

We are so looking forward to what kinds of writing wizardry will come from 2010… Thanks to all members of the group for supporting our writers, artists & staff!!!!!!

Some of our favorite images of 2009!

TK’s Toppers

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[View with PicLens]

I have to say that picking just 10 images from an array of inspirational artists, has to be the hardest task I can think of – but I seemed to have managed…

Many thanks for the inspirations, the colors, the symbols, the messages, the music and the TALENT!!

JWBaker’s “Three Friends” inspired a friend to begin a storytelling venture which included RB friends…

fullcirclemandalas‘ “Triple Goddess Mandala” has to be my favorite version of Maiden, Mother & Crone!

sfmilner’s “Remaking Nature” just fascinates me with the selective coloring.<

pryere’s “London Blues” had me hearing the saxophone and feeling those Baker Street Blues…

JenLand’s “Peace Train” just took me back in time to hearing Cat Stevens…

mooner1 left the legacy of his image “She talks with Angels”, which reminds me how fleeting our time on earth really is…

Keith Reesor’s “Molten Sunset” just made me want to get onboard and SAIL AWAY…

Crowmaniac’s “In the beginning” has a wonderful ancestral feeling about it and tapped into that Tribal Character.

butchart’s “Out of the night” was just an explosion of abstract color and light that awakened energies dormant…

and finally, Trudi’s Images of “Forest Encounters” just brings your imaginative dreams alive…

Those would be my “Toppers”, although I would choose everyone if there was enough space on our ezine to do so. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank Mark and the EMI support staff for an amazing journey into the world of heART and friendships around the world!

Earthmonster’s Favorite Faces of EMI

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Special Thanks to simplylovely183, Cynthia Lund Torroll, arteology, Danilo Lejardi, AnitaInverarity, -Lilith-, Martin Muir, MoonSpiral, Matt Mawson, mimi yoon, MelAncholyPhoto, Elizabeth Burton, Headcrime, Randy L Monteith, Deborah Glasgow

ShadowDancer’s Top 10

Uncertainty by Mindy McGregor – I came across this photo just moments before a very painful phone call. During that conversation, my gaze could not deflect from this piece together with the music Mindy had added. While the piece is titled “Uncertainty”, the tender quality of it emits the feelings of hope and inner piece for me. I am a big fan of Mindy and this is my personal favorite of hers.

Gemini by Mariska – Mariska is definitely one of my favorite artists on RedBubble. She produces piece after piece of gallery-quality art. I absolutly fell in love with this piece, created for Mariskas own birthday, titled Gemini. For me, the colors, layers, and textures she uses takes me to another place. It reminds me of the days I lived in my favorite city, New Orleans, with it’s deep and luxurious feeling. Bravo as always, Mariska.

Time Stops by Fred Smilde – Fred Smilde captured the epitomy of romance with this painting. I have a fascination with hands, they are a glorious part of the human anatomy, able to depict any emotion with just a flicker. As soon as I saw this piece a movie of love played in my mind.

Dream Boy by Karen Tillotson – I love horses; I was lucky enough to have them as a child. This photo took me back to those days when we would ride our horses into Ozark National Forest and camp out for a week with nothing but what was in our backpacks. The misty mornings, foggy evenings, and the smell of leather and horses. Absolutely beautiful use of photomanipulation.

Portrait…Deep Blue by Janis Zroback – This piece really fit my mood when I came across it. The deep blues made me think of icy winter, and the haunting expression on her face echoed that coldness. Beautifully drawn portrait, with a perfect combination of texture and colors. Love it.

Our Hearts Fit by Jacqleen – I would bet that almost every bubble member has seen at least one photo by jacqleen. She is a Goddess of photography, specializing in portraiture and high fashion. I loved this piece, however, because it’s a twist on what I was used to seeing from her. She has always emitted romance in her photos, but this collage has oodles of layers of love. Check out the piece to read the poem she included with it.

Passage (Detail) by Cynthia Lund Torroll – This was one of my harder choices because the artist, Cynthia Lund Torroll, has created quite a number of my favorites. Narrowing it down to just one was difficult. Her pieces are intriguing and challenge us to look within ourselves to find the meaning. I loved this piece in particular because of the way the model is touching her face, the soul in her eyes, and the way the trees surround her.

While I was talking to the flowers by DreaM – When I saw this piece, I wanted to wrap myself over and over with the sighs and words emitting from it, layer upon layer. The passion on the subjects face, the pastel textures and the romantic letter, really burst through my veins and went straight to my heart.

Halloween 2009 by Matt Mawson – All I can say is that when I first saw this piece I said, out loud, “this is freaking awesome!” Halloween may be over, but this level of photomanipulation lasts forever. Superbly wonderful piece.

Untitled #53 by Headcrime – Headcrime is quickly becoming a favorite artist for me. The depth of this piece is never ending. The art itself captured my senses, but when I read the words I felt like I was hit by tornado. I still feel the weight of the world in my heart every time I look at this.

Mindy McGregor’s Favorite Photos

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Courtesy of: Mel Brackstone, Scott d’Almeida, Rosemary Scott, Sharon Mau, Lois Bryan, jonpalma, jacqleen, Jordan Busson, William Bullimore

Steve Harvey’s T-Shirt Choices

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Thanks to: Rustyoldtown, arteology, TheMaker

Earthmonster’s Favorite Places

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Special Thanks to: Tamas Bakos, Silvia Ganora, syd baker, Nic Burgess, artisandelimage, William Bullimore

Carla Jensen, Scott d’Almeida, Mel Brackstone, canonman99

RoubleRust’s Best of Black Xmas

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Special Thanks to:AsylumWitch, kangarookid, stitchgrin, Cimmerrian, Vestque, usarogersbros, MagpieMagic, Kathy Adalian, Adam Stone, azzza,

We launched the SCOUT Award at EMI for October’s issue, our first featured newbie was Erika Gouws, while November’s newbie was Julie Everhart. We have painstakingly contemplated a year-end newbie award, but not much to pick from, so we thought we’d recruit our readers to help us out…

There are so many ‘newbies’ or Redbubble new members and I’m sure that we’ve missed more than we’ve found, but we feel the finds we made will inspire all ‘list checkers’ to check once or twice.

Here’s your Newbie List:

inkyfings (Nov 2009)

kenton elliott (Nov 2009)

seacap (Nov 2009)

tom bradnam (Oct 2009)

peter holme III (Oct 2009)

ella meky (Oct 2009)

bernd watchmeister (Dec 2008)

EchoArt (Oct 2009)

margomythmaker (Nov 2009)

patricia hewitt (Nov 2009)

Jane Brack (Aug 2009)

Deborah Glasgow (June 2009)

Anna Silvanchick (Oct 2009)

Georgia Stylou (Oct 2009)

Jenny Pulfer (Sep 2009)

theMaker (Oct 2009)

The continuous inspiring artists that regularly join our community keep my mind, body & spirit aware of the awe-inspiring hope, sharing and new friendships on a global level.

Please leave a comment to vote or bmail tkrosevear or earthmonster with your Newbie choice

Linaji is a bright light. When looking at her art it’s apparent she is in tune with the vibrations of art and life. She hosts 8 groups on RedBubble, and is well-known for her positive, empathetic, and supportive comments to other artists. She is a force to be reckoned with; a triple-threat, with dynamic skills in writing, photography, and digital art. She recently had her first art exhibit and I had the pleasure to interview her and find out more about what makes her tick.

How would you describe your art to someone that isn’t familiar with it? There are 3 types of art within my art.

There is the abstract which influences all the others and brings me great joy.

There is the portrait/photojournalist bent I have to shooting which attracts from others a freedom to shine towards my lens.

And there is that part of me that loves the water and the sea so much; I can’t seem to go wrong when I am shooting on water.

Let’s not forget to mention Lina’s writing. Her words can take your breath away with raw, honest metaphors about life. Here is an excert fom one of my favorite poems of hers, called Waxing Statues:

I timed the beats in my head as I lay on your chest
Wispy and Soulful
Pink and a little nasty too.
Only when we’re not looking
The devil rises up and says to die.

How has your experience on RedBubble influenced your art? THE BUBBLE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN AIDING ME TO DISCOVER MY ARTIST WITHIN. It was YOU of the bubble that gave me the confidence to look and see my passion and let it fly.

What people in your life, either online or face-to-face, do you find inspires you in your art? Lovers inspire my writing.. muses all, just feeling love is a big influence for my work in many ways. When I don’t have a ‘real’ lover I become my own lover which is a new experience. So my inspiration is love – pure and simple. Many at RedBubble.. and that is MANY.. are my muse and I jump off from their work and create my own. This site is simply amazing that way.

Your writing has often been described as confessional, motivational, and uplifting. How do you recharge your batteries for internal motivation? I recharge by reminding myself that nothing is more important than that I ‘feel’ good. And this is the continual recharge. The success in doing this gives me a better non-judgmental nature which allows others in more easily. I keep to my own garden and when I don’t – I feel it; it feels horrible to wonder what you are thinking about me and my work. We all do that but I do not make a habit of it. If I get stuck I turn to my art to help me feel better and when I feel better my whole life around me gets better.

Your digital art is fantastic, and I understand that you developed the technique yourself – can you explain how this came about? My technique came about for two contrasting (seemingly difficult) situations.

First, had I not been in a depression and not wanting to go outside to be with the world I would not have found Photoshop and devoted a time period of one year to learn all I have learned. I averaged 10 hours per day on my art in the beginning.

Second had I not been ‘broke’ I would not have developed my HDR-like technique that I use on the water to capture boats as a moving subject. I could not buy a program so in essence I became the program. It is time consuming, but I love each and every minute of the work.

You recently had your first art exhibit. Share with us how that experience went. I was completely blown away at how I dreamed this into being exactly as I expected it to be, successful in both mood and talent. I say this because I employed the work I do with The Law of Attraction to overcome the obstacles that face one in the Art world (there are so many negatives). I believe I am/was successful because I had a blast! I made it fun and people felt the joy as they viewed their boats. I displayed my work on a 54” LED screen; it looked fantastic! I planned and worked many hours on this project and it paid off – I sold all of my work and more.

Can you share your plans for your future in regards to your art? I have recently been asked by a marketing business man to ‘buy’ my company! Teehee.. This and my photography teacher said she wondered why I was in her class. This gives me pause and fills me up with appreciation for this process. I am in the stages of becoming and I do not know my next step, however, I do have a plan. I will keep you posted!

Please check out Linas RedBubble Page and enjoy the talents of this beautiful artist.

One of the joys of this season are the bounties of festive foods to send our tastebuds to the heavens, whether traditional holiday meal planning or something different – our home menu-planning includes healthy, heartsmart planning and preparations.

So when I received a calendar of menus from a fellow bubbler, aspectsoftmk, she was the only chef I was interested in interviewing or sharing for this festive issue…

One thing I love about cooking, is sharing the time and energy with friends and loved ones. Going to gatherings where everyone takes food to share and then listen and join in great conversations. Growing food in my yard brings me a great joy and saves me alot of money. Food is such an art form to me and one I am passionate about. I love to give food to people.. and I love to share in the ideas of how we eat to live..eating with colors..and the energy that we consomme and that we give..
During the holidays when you have some friends over for some food and music…or to watch a movie or a sporting event..to just share in some time and want to take a healthy and colorful .mouthwatering delight…try taking one of these dishes….
In hopes for you all to share peace and love in the holiday season… terri

….citrus shrimp
serves 8 to 10

2 1/2 pounds of peeled and de-veined shrimp ( i like size 16/20) meaning you will get 16 to 20 shrimp per pound
1 stalk of course cut lemongrass
3 navel or juice oranges
2 tangerines
3 limes
3 lemons
2 mangoes
1 cucumber diced
2 peaces of garlic minced
1 cup pineapple chunks
1 red onion cut in slivers
1 red pepper cut into strips
1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes
1 bunch of green onion cut up
a big handful of cilantro chopped
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin

bring a large pot of sea salted water and lemongrass to a boil..add the shrimp and cook until lightly pink a couple minutes and then drain.( they will cook a little more as they cool and when the citrus is added)
while the shrimp cook zest one orange, one lime and set aside
in a large bowl add the shrimp and cut the fruit up and squeeze the juice into the bowl and then cut up in quarters and toss in the fruit too.
add all the ingredients now and stir

chill for one half hour…
salt and pepper if you like…
mix up well and have a treat….
enjoy this on a bed of salad greens…or on some cold jasmine rice…or with a toothpick…

one half of a fresh salmon or 6 fillets (cleaned and no bones)
in the bottom of a large baking dish add 2 good swirls of olive oil and 2 pats of virgin coconut butter , juice of one lime, one orange and a little bit of chopped cilantro and green onion…add the salmon and then add a pinch of sea salt and cracked pepper. bake at 400 for 12 to 15 minutes…basting half way thru the cooking time…
the salmon is done when it is firm to touch the top of the salmon..
while the salmon is cooking in a large bowl add
1 tablespoon of minced ginger and 1 of minced garlic…
1 cup of chopped fresh orange
1 cup diced mango
1 cup diced tomatoes
a handful of chopped cilantro
and a handful of chopped green onion…
some dashes of tabasco
mix all of this and top the baked salmon with it…:)
serve on rice or tender salad greens

ok… now for the poached pears

peel and core 5 bosc pears

in a large pot add

1 bottle of italian dessert wine ( or 2 cups of water and 1 cup orange juice)
2 tablespoons honey
2 cinnamon sticks
1 teaspoon of minced ginger
1 vanilla bean
bring to a light boil and add 2 cups of water

put in the pears ( stand them up)
reduce heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes…until they are tender

in the last five minutes add a fresh rosemary sprig to the pears

while the pears cook….
temper 2 cups of nice chocolate..i like callebaut dark
and add the seeds of a pomegranate

cut the pears into quarters or leave whole and plate on a bed of the chocolate pomegranate and add the rosemary for a beautiful and delicious dessert….

Many thanks to terri for sharing such sumptuous treats, truly a tasty gift for the holidays

As I continue to research terminology including “LIGHT”, I am reminded of the Candle and other forms of light that have marked all humankind occasions of joy, including their usage by our ancestors to ward off evil spirits, and light their way to a long and happy life with their “GOD”.

The CANDLE is also symbolic as the short-lived candle and its easily extinguished flame becomes a metaphor for the solitary, aspiring human soul.

This symbolism immediately reminded me of Mattie J.T. Stepanek, a poet, a peace activist, and the best-selling author of the Heartsongs poetry series. He was a motivational speaker and the National Goodwill Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association for three years. He appeared on Oprah, on quite a few occassions that I can recall and the forwards to his books were graced with contributions by Gary Zukav, Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey and Jimmy Carter.

He died in June 2004 at the age of thirteen from dysautonomic mitochondrail myopathy, but not before he impacted so many with his ‘Reflections of a peacemaker…’ In December of 1996, at the tender age of 5, he wrote this poem which I’ve chosen 12 heARTworks from “MIA” that accompany his words beautifully:

Light the first light of Christmas for thankfulness and prayer…

And everything you see and hear and feel and do ~

Light the second light of Christmas for happiness and joy…

And be cheerful with everyday and everyone around ~

Light the third light of Christmas for colors and music…

Gifts in people, gifts for people, gifts everywhere from God ~

Light the fourth light of Christmas for thoughtfulness and love…

And be gentle and kind to all of God’s people and animals ~

Light the fifth light of Christmas for mercy…

So we can be forgiving and forgiving like our God ~

Light the sixth light of Christmas for all miracles…

Like babies and Jesus and things that happen like magic, but they’re not ~

Light the seventh light of Christmas for understanding…

So we can have peace inside ourselves and all around the world ~

Light the eighth light of Christmas for our earth…

It’s the only planet where humans can survive ~

Light the ninth light of Christmas for Heaven and Angels…

We can keep them all around us, everywhere, with goodness ~

Light the tenth light of Christmas for life…

No matter how short or long it is, it’s a wonderful blessing from God ~

Light the eleventh light of Christmas for Spirit…

The strongest part of us that rises out of death forever ~

Light the twelfth light of Christmas for Heartsongs…

The glow inside of us that keeps the light of Christmas bright ~

And when our hearts glow with the lights of Christmas,

We will remember spirit and life and Heaven and Angels,

And Earth and understanding and miracles and mercy,

And thoughtfulness and love and colors and music,

And happiness and joy and thankfulness and prayer…

And become better people throughout the whole, entire year. Mattie J.T. Stepanek

Mattie was a ’source of light’, who ‘rose with the light’ and ‘brought to light’ the subject of PEACE ‘in a good light’ or a ‘different light’ or perspective and he ‘gave light to’ my pursuit of ’spreading the light’ by being the candle or the mirror that reflects it by example…

Many thanks to the heARTists whose work inspired these twelve lights of Christmas: Paul Stephen Dixon; Joyce Dickens; Scott Bricker; Vasile Stan; liesbeth; Jan Landers; Shanina Conway; Devine Day Dreams; Esther Johnson; Stephanie Rachel Seeley; RavenSoul; and, aspectsoftmk.

YOU LIGHT UP MY LIFE!!!

“In this age of Spirit, during this sacred time, we seek the guidance and protection of our ancestors, whilst we free our collective souls – to empower ALL “Nurturers” to calling their ‘warriors’ home with honor and respect – declaring Peace within every home, for our future on this planet Earth. We ask for this Light of Love to brighten our belief that we can make a difference and receive Peace within, to emanate it around us.” tkrosevear

Source of Light – The SUN

The Sun, as far back as 10,000 B.C.E., has been historically abundant with carvings, petroglyphs, hieroglyphics and writings reflecting human’s respect and adoration for this consistent object that shines brightly each and every day. It is simple to understand why as every morning the Sun rises, bringing clarity of vision, warmth, and security, saving us from the cold, blind and predator-filled darkness of night. Without it, our ancestors understood, the crops would not grow, and life on this planet would not survive. These consistent realities made the Sun the most adored object of reverence of all time. Our ancestors were also quite aware of the stars, as they tracked them to allow their recognition and anticipation of events that occurred over long periods of time, such as eclipses and full moons.

“I am the light that illuminates all things. I am all: from me all came forth, and to me all is attained. Split a piece of wood; I am there. Lift up the stone, and you will find me there.” Jesus from the Gospel of Thomas: 77. Gnostic

Our ancestors did not only follow the Sun and stars, they personified them with elaborate myths and legends that involved their movements and relationships. The Sun, with its life-giving and life-saving qualities was personified as a representative of the unseen Creator or God… “God’s Sun”, the light of the world, the savior of humankind. The 12 constellations represented places of God’s Sun and were identified by names, usually representing elements of nature that happened during that period of time: the first beginning in Spring, Aries, the ram who initiates the fire-light of salvation; Taurus, the bull grounded on Earth in security; Gemini, the twins who communicate the link between spirit and matter; Summer brings Cancer, the crab or archetypal nurturer who rules our emotion; Leo, the lion who lights the fire of creativity; Virgo, the virgin who symbolizes wheat and the harvests of the earth; Fall begins with Libra, the scales of balancing the “WE” consciousness; Scorpio, the scorpion of life force and regeneration; Sagittarius, the archer or hunter who expands upon the challenges for improving sources of nourishment; the Winter brings us Capricorn, the goat who structures aspirations of abundance; Aquarius, the water bearer who brings forth the rains of social consciousness; and, finally Pisces, the fish representative of faith and the salvation of the coming Sun.

“And the city hath no need for the sun, neither of the moon, to shine upon it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the lamp thereof is the Lamb.” Revelations 21:23

The phenomenon of Winter Solstice has always fascinated me, as the star in the East, Sirius or the brightest star in the night sky, aligns with the 3 brightest stars in Orion’s belt (aka The 3 Kings) and all point to the place of sunrise on December 25^th or birth of the Sun. The other interesting coincidence with the solstices of summer to winter, are as the days become shorter and colder (from our Northern Hemispheres perspective), the Sun appears to move south and get smaller and scarcer. The shortening of days and the expiration of the crops when approaching the winter solstice symbolized the process of death to the ancients. It was the death of the Sun, by December 22^nd, the Sun’s demise was fully realized, for the Sun, having moved south continually for 6 months, makes it to the lowest point in the sky. Here a curious thing occurs: the Sun stops moving south, at least perceivably, for 3 days. During this 3 day phase, the Sun resides in the vicinity of the Southern Cross, or Crux, constellation, and after this time on December 25^th, the Sun moves 1 degree, this time north, foreshadowing longer days, warmth and Spring. Another perception might be that the Sun died on the Southern Cross, was dead for 3 days, only to be resurrected or born again. It is the Sun’s transition period before it shifts its direction back into the Northern Hemisphere, bringing spring, and thus salvation.

“Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a lamp, and put it under a bushel, but on the stand; and it shineth unto all that are in the house. Even so let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14, 15 & 16.

Hoping ALL experience an amazing Winter Solstice perspective that we may reach humanity’s peace of mind…

Thank you to:

Deborah Holman

Russell Cockman

SharonD

Scott d’Almeida

For their heARTworks’ contributions which are greatly appreciated.