It's 2015...Don't Wait. Just Do it!

Well...it's another new year! If you are like me, there were some items on your bucket-list from the previous year that never came close to happening. Don't get me wrong...2014 was a year filled with blessings and I experienced so much growth!

But this year...

Here is my mantra, "I will be more present and aware. It's important to show up for my life."

Here's some things on my bucket list: 

Hike up a mountain,doesn't matter which one and overlook a waterfall!

Push my yoga practice to this level!

Make more, more, more art!

I will continue to be one of the crazy ones! :)

Moving it Forward,
Judith

People,Places,Things and Whatever!

Pssst! Let's talk!

I've been having so much fun getting to know my new city and neighborhood. This has also been a time of reminiscing and new discoveries! My musings in each blog is very much about lifestyle choices, creating art and design in your life when it is possible. I am sharing some photos that were taken recently to reflect the countless possibilities that pave the way to experience your life in a more passionate way! You don't have to be a designer or artist. It's really about doing the things and being around the people you enjoy!

One of the first places I had to find and visit was the Museum of Art-Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It's at the center of the cultural hub in this downtown area. My love for art runs through my veins! So this was a very important connection. I attended the gallery opening for "Against The Grain." The exhibit featured installations, sculptures, furniture and objects by leading artists and designers. This was an exploration of the most cutting-edge conceptual and technical trends in woodworking today. I wasn't able to photograph the actual exhibit but here is an example of one of the works.

Artist-Laurel Roth, Sheep,2008,Vera Wood, Gold Leaf,Swarovski Crystals

I managed to take a snapshot of the visiting curator from the Museum of Art and Design in New York, Lowery Stokes Sims. I attended her talk before the gala opening and she was engaging and thought provoking through her presentation! 

Curator, Museum of Art and Design, New York

Museum of Art, Fort Lauderdale-Nova Southeastern University

Walk to entrance

Late Evening Pic of Museum Courtyard & Entrance

Kaleidoscope Facade, Second level-patio

Reception Gathering

Been spending most of my free time by the beach in downtown Fort Lauderdale and the Las Olas communities. When I lived in Minneapolis,Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes,I was fortunate enough to live near the water. However, could only enjoy a few months out of each year because of the long winters and short summers. Spring and Fall were rare!

Downtown Fort Lauderdale-Blvd Scene from Museum

If you are looking for a waterfront vacation in the states...come visit Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale!!

ENJOY!!!

 ...then think about doing this!

and finally this...

DIY for judithamckenziedesigns@gmail.com

I hope you enjoyed seeing facets of my new adventures in moving life forward and experiencing a creative life through people, places, things and whatever! Please let me know what you think! I'd enjoy seeing your comments.

Moving it Forward,

Judith

Beginning where I am...just moving it forward!

My life has changed considerably since my last posting! Change may not always show itself to you as a positive energy force in the initial stages. But believe me when I say, "Change is good!" 

After more than twenty years living in Minneapolis, I took a leap and relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida! The journey that fueled this decision was not an easy one. However, it's really good right now. I am content. I have borrowed a mantra from Tracee Ellis Ross; "May the space between where I am and where I want to be, inspire me!" 

I left some beautiful memories behind...like these!

Lake Harriet Peace & Rose Gardens (Minneapolis)

Rock Garden (partial)

Partial Rose Garden View with Lavender and Marigolds

Now, I am doing things like cooking fresh,whole red snapper purchased from a fish market in Fort Lauderdale where I live! 

I believe that once you embrace change and harvest your intent, the creative opportunities are endless.

Moving it Forward,

Judith

CUP OF JAVA OR TEA, ANYONE?

CUP OF JAVA OR TEA, ANYONE?

Having a hot cup of java or tea is one of life's most pleasurable moments! But choosing the right vessel to enjoy those liquids that we savor can make this experience epic! Here are some of my personal favorites below!

Vintage tea cups I discovered at an estate sale (pictured below)

Or... change it up and sip your hot liquid delight from something more contemporary! I discovered these at an art museum gift shop! (pictured below)

"If this is coffee, please bring me some tea; but if this is tea, please bring me some coffee." 
--Abraham Lincoln, American President, 1809-1865

"Style is the dress of thought."

 --Samuel Wesley, English Composer 1766-1837

It doesn't matter what style or design of cup you choose to drink your brew in. The point is to embrace your lifestyle in ways that let you express the best  you have to offer yourself and create that "zen" moment...ahhh!

Moving It Forward,

Judith

judithamckenziedesigns@gmail.com

Farewell 2012, Hello 2013!

Although Christmas 2012 has come and gone, its worthy to mention as it has always been another excuse to make things even more beautiful at my house. In my mind, Christmas lights the way for the new year and fuels creativity!

Partial Snapshot, Personal Christmas Tree

 I'd like to share one of my favorite hunting grounds for unique and inexpensive finds. It's really a designers heaven! The Salvation Army's flag ship store located:  900 North 4th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55401. Of course, they are all over the country. You need to go often and scrutinize quickly, so you are ready to go for the grab. Be mindful that there are many others looking for the same things!

I had been on the look out for two matching dining chairs to team up with a quirky bench and another odd chair. This appeases my eclectic taste in design and sometimes art.

So the search is over! I knew it the moment my heart started racing and the adrenalin pumping!  " A chair is a very difficult object. A skyscraper is almost easier. That is why Chippendale is famous." LUDWIG MIES VAN DER ROHE (1886-1969) German born architect, educator 

                      Frame before recovering and stuffing drop in seats

      Chairs shown above:Left-recovered/stuffed drop-in seat, Right-original

Odd chair (right) already in my possession covered in coordinating fabric

My creative pursuits may take awhile but in the end I am always satiated! I enjoyed sharing this with you. Each week this space will be filled with some tidbit or musing about my favorite passions design or art!

Moving It Forward,

Judith

judithamckenziedesigns@gmail.com