My Creative Peace Book Review: The World Needs More Love Letters

 I do not know how I came across Hannah Brencher but I can honestly say I am so glad that I did.  Her blog is one whose voice has been speaking deeply to me in 2015.  She does not go into details about the reason behind her transformational voice but man oh man it is a powerhouse change.  And as one who is feeling many changes coming on since the death of my father two years ago and now having to make some tough decisions about my mother I am CRAVING a sense of purpose, legacy and understanding in a world that seems to be getting more cold, more harsh, and more careless in its treatment of one another.

As a military wife, I was drawn to this book because I wrote letters to my friends back in the U.S. while stationed in Germany.  I also encouraged my daughter to do the same.  I am very pleased to say that my daughter received many delightful letters during the months we were stationed in Germany.  I was not that lucky.  Everyone's busy you know.  Busy. Busy. Busy.  So busy and yet so alone. 

I love the layout of the book.  The stationary colors invite you to sit down and fill the words with little stories, stories to share with friends.  A snapshot in time. A reminder that someone is being thought of.  I did it while in Germany.  I did it while my son was in boot camp.  Just put a little not on the calendar to sit down and write a note.  Something about getting something in the mail.  in your hands.  I gave this book to a friend as an invitation to begin our own writing relationship.  And it brought to mind someone else I can begin to write.

NOTE: I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

My Creative Peace Book Review: Just Add Watercolor

I first heard about this book while looking at Helen Hallows' blog - she is one of the artists featured in this book.  I have been attracted to her work because of the delicate feeling and the mood of the work.  

I first started playing with watercolors when my husband was stationed in Germany in 2010.  We had limited access to art supplies where we were stationed.  BUT there was this little store (equivalent to a Walgreens here in the U.S.) that carried these rich vibrant watercolor sets for $3USD - I could just KICK myself for not stocking up on these when we left.  I can't get these same watercolors for any less than $15.00 here.

I was intrigued by both the title of this book and by the cover which hints at the diversity of artists represented inside.  Not only does the book deliver with this feast of talent but also in the little tips that you can try on your own to begin your own work as a watercolor explorer.

I look at this book when I am getting ready to begin any creative project whether it is writing or creating a project for one of the local classes I teach.  It feels like a mental pump priming to dive into color, richness and possibility.  I think that you will enjoy this book too.

NOTE: I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

Gospel Challenge | the POET

Contentment and satisfaction with work and life: Greg Gianforte at TEDxB...