Picture to Ponder

Prickly Situations or Enlightenment from a Cactus Flower – Picture to Ponder – v6-issue 5

by Sheila Finkelstein on February 4, 2010

Today’s Photo –

pink cactus flower
Cactus flower in the Desert Botanical Garden in Scottsdale, Arizona.

As part of the focus and sensory expansion exercises we do in the Point and Shoot Through and From the Lens photo course, participants “place” themselves into a photo of an alstromeria flower and explore it from within and/or from the outside. As a follow up, there is a choice of two other photos with which to do this exercise between sessions.

When looking at the photo page the other day, before sending participants the Photos for Exploration link, the shiny light within the above cactus flower popped out at me. It called out to, once again, be a featured photo in Picture to Ponder.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
Although the “spiny” needles surrounding the flower may be prickly, in the photo they appear to be soft and gentle. The light feels strong and bright, yet there is an overall sense of softness, conveyed in part by the pinks.

I invite you to do the exercise mentioned above, putting yourself into the photo, exploring the flower, the setting within which it resides, covering it from all angles.

Observe – “What size are you?” “How does it feel?” “Would you want to be a permanent resident in this space?” Check your responses. “Why ‘yes’ or ‘no’?” Do they point to similarities in any aspects of your life?

I also invite you to look further into your own life. Are there areas where you are feeling “prickly” places, perhaps ones you wish to avoid? If so, can you look beyond and find a bright light beckoning you? What could you be saying to “soften” them up?

You may also want to use your camera to photograph images that catch your eye and then do the same exercise with one or more photos of your own.

As always, have fun with this.

Programs I recommend for:
Authors – Published or Inspired to be ones –

My friend, author of GARDEN OF THE SOUL, is launching a new program with an exciting FR*EE Grand Opening Event coming Feb 22-26. She is hosting 5 days of webcasts with 17 other leading names in the exciting world of mind-body-spirit writing and publishing.

Lynn is presenting an exciting NEW concept on the Internet, combining coaching, learning, community and business-building in a creative, spirit-based environment.

If you’re an experienced author, a brand new author, or someone who is dreaming of writing an inspirational book some day, you’ll want to register for this fr*ee event.

Using Social Media – Developing an Internet Business:
This weekend I was in Atlanta for the Niche Affiliate Marketing System (NAMS 3) program. It was a full, information-rich, people-connecting, inspiring weekend.

On Saturday, a recording, STRATEGIES 4 SOCIAL MARKETING, was made with a panel of 5 top Internet Marketing Experts sharing information and tips on effectively using social media for connecting AND building business. That hour session is now available in a downloadable MP3, with several bonuses, for only $17.

My friend Tomar Levine, not at the conference, wrote: “Thanks, Sheila. I bought it, listened to it, and took four pages of notes. Just what I needed to re-invigorate my social media, which I’ve backed away from of late. I got at least one brand-new piece of info which I will start using immediately.”

It is also possible, until Monday when the price increases, to purchase the recordings from the past three NAMS conferences, including this past weekend, for only $97 total. The above-mentioned Social Marketing recording is part of the weekend recordings, so you wouldn’t need both.

See NAMS for details and to purchase the full series, should it fit for you.

{ 6 comments }

Being Safe and Authenticity – Azaleas, Ferns and Iguana in Morikami – Picture to Ponder – v6-issue 3

by Sheila Finkelstein on January 22, 2010

Before introducing today’s photos, I want to put out a reminder for those of you whom might be looking for a creativity boost, in an “eye-opening” way, you can experience this in the upcoming Point and Shoot Photo Course. The official start date was moved to this upcoming Tuesday, January 26th.

Our pre-class revealed an exciting, excited group of participants. The call was on How to Use Flickr for communicating and sharing photographs. It was recorded and will be made available for participants. There is still time to join us. See COURSE for information and your subscriber’s savings.

Today’s Photos –

azalea at the Morikami Gardens

Today’s photos are from a recent walk through the Morikami Gardens in Delray Beach, Florida, with visiting friends from New Jersey. I had several choices for photos to select for today. Then concern set in on the photo I originally thought I might use. I decided some might find it “disturbing.” I will include a separate link below for the latter.

Because my friend loves azaleas, my attention was brought to one above on our walk through Morikami Gardens

Posts and ferns in Morikami Gardens

Most appealing to me was this close-up of ferns and the posts from a dam-like “wall”. (See broader view.) For some unidentified reason, I get a peaceful feeling from the above picture, a sense of “aliveness’, perhaps from the bright lights and contrast.

The most dramatic photograph from the outing was a yellow (golden) iguana – beautiful colors and patterns. This is the one I hesitated to feature here in Picture to Ponder.

Firstly, some of you could possibly find it repulsive-looking, despite what I see; and, secondly, in South Florida iguanas are becoming a serious nuisance, invading residential areas, eating prized plants and more. So “honoring” it might be offensive to some. You can see the photo by clicking on iguana.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
My “story” today is a demonstration of how we often allow our actions to be governed by our expectations of what others may think and feel. And, it’s not always even the reality of the situation.

I invite you to look into your own life.

Are there places now where you are stifling your own thoughts and feelings because you don’t think they will be accepted by others?

If so, do you take the time, sometimes the courage, to actually check in with the ones upon whose presumed thoughts you are taking, or not, action?

As you ponder these queries, I invite you also to look to see, “Can you identify some areas in your life where you do allow yourself to be truly open/authentic and others where your don’t?”

What would it take to be totally free and open? Is that even something you want for yourself? from others?

Last Call –
Although none of the above was meant to lead into one last reminder of the upcoming Through and from the Lens Point and Shoot Photo Course, 4 weeks, starting Tuesday evening, January 26th at 8:30 PM, I would be remiss in not making one more mention here.

The course does provide a fun, experiential platform where, with your camera, you can start more freely, playfully, identifying the most meaningful areas of your life.

For specifics and registration see Through and From the Lens Course.

More Upcoming Important Events in which I am participating. You can too.

1 – My friend, amazing Adela Rubio is continuing her teleclass series: Conscious Business Summit: Mastering the Inner Game a global network of Conscious Business Experts(TM) ready to power up your potential in just 11 days.

Adela states: “Launch a Powerful and Profitable 2010 by Mastering Your Inner Game. Tap Into Your Creative Genius and Unleash Your Built In Greatness to Create an Abundant, Authentic and Conscious Business powered by YOU. . .”

These calls are F*ree, with a 24-hour window to listen in if you can’t make the live call. Check out Mastering the Inner Game.

Adela is one of the best interviewers I encountered and TOTALLY authentic and open, inspiring her guests to be the same.

2 – Ordered at Amazon, and already delivered, Allison Maslan’s book – Blast Off! The Surefire Success Plan to Launch Your Dreams Into Reality is waiting for me to dive into it . There are several bonuses, still available for anyone who orders the book by January 31st. See Blast Off!

I am offering a wonderful REFLECTIONS bonus for this launch, including 30 Reflections Photos in a PDF slide show, plus a separate PDF with thumbnails and Queries for writing prompts. By agreement, you will be given permission to use any of the photos for you web activities. Again, see Blast Off!

{ 0 comments }

Getting Past Stuckness – Taking Action – Introducing Red Onion #7 – Picture to Ponder – V6-Issue2

by Sheila Finkelstein on January 15, 2010

Today’s post will be, of necessity, a demonstration of “less is more” – fewer words than usual on my part. So many of them around the “right” words have been running around my head that I allowed myself to stay stalled. I’ve been wanting to ensure that you understand what’s available for you in my upcoming Through and From the Lens Course, starting this Tuesday, January 19th.

It offers new insights, artistry and breakthroughs through the discipline and guidance of photography. There is an affiliate program through which those of you in business can promote this course. See Affiliate for more information.

Today’s Photo represents another story or set of stories that have been running

red onion #7 - first cuts

around in my head. I purchased two new, beautiful red onions last week to continue my RED ONION STORY (email me if you wish the link for the first – “onion story” in the subject) and I’ve been creating stories, in my head, around the new ones all week, continuing to observe analogies in my life.

Today, in addition to passive observing I declared the bold action of taking the first cut and then more.

My photo/seeing course offers an easy, enjoyable way of taking first, fun cuts in your own life using a digital camera.

Without any more story around today’s photo, I’m inviting you to be with it, without prompts on my part.

Later, I will share some of my observations here on my blog. Check there tomorrow. Even before I add comments though, I invite you to share your experience in the comments section under this post.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
Where in your life might there be places you are allowing yourself to be pinned down by stories you’re telling yourself or by waiting to say the “perfect” thing?

If you see something I invite you to take action NOW.

And, please do yourself a favor. Check out the Through and from the Lens Point and Shoot Photo Course,
4 weeks, starting Tuesday evening, January 19th, or Wednesday morning, January 20th.

In this course you will be opening and expanding communication as you start seeing things you’ve never before noticed in your own world; get to make and share your own unique discoveries; learn to use your digital camera so it becomes your best friend, producing photos you’re proud to share.

For specifics and registration see Through and From the Lens Course.-

More Upcoming Important Events in which I am participating. You can too. –

1 – My friend, amazing Adela Rubio has just started a week of Conscious Business Summit: Mastering the Inner Game a global network of Conscious Business Experts(TM) ready to power up your potential in just 11 days.

Adela states: “Have You Put Off Your Dream to Start a Business Because There’s Always Something That Seems To Get In The Way . . .

Guess What? Chances Are That Something is You!

For specifics and registration see Through and From the Lens Course.

{ 2 comments }

Year-end and New Year’s Reflections from Night Crown Heron and Dancing Children – Picture to Ponder – v5-48

by Sheila Finkelstein on December 29, 2009

I’m taking a quick break from family time to wish you a Joyful, Healthy, Peaceful Prosperous New Year.

night crown heron in Green Cay Wetlands

The Night Crown Heron seems to be pondering? Reflecting? Have you taken the time to reflect and acknowledge your accomplishments in 2010?

night crown heron stepping out

Will you to be stepping lightly into 2010 or taking a leap?
And, in celebration of both the “good” and the “bad” in the year almost over, as we look forward to the upcoming year, I include one of my favorite photos taken a few years ago.

children celebrating sunrise

With the spontaneity and freedom of youth, my grandson and granddaughter, along with their cousins from Indiana, are dancing and singing, celebrating the rising sun. I use it here to acknowledge the past year and welcome the upcoming one.

For me, in addition to the light, the photo also exudes warmth. So, I offer it to you now, wishing you light and warmth, wherever you are, during this season.

And, should it be a challenging time for you, I invite you to pause, close your eyes and do some deep breathing.

Self Reflecting Queries –
I invite you to take a moment or two, or more, to reflect.  Where in your life is there light and warmth? Who are the people past and present who have contributed that to you? Is there a way for you to express your gratitude?

Do remember to acknowledge yourself. In the gratitude there is light.
Personally, Looking Back and Looking Forward –
This past year I spent a lot of time in search of my purpose/my identity.  Not that this was anything new.  What was different  this year was the number of places I went and the “new” people with whom I interacted.  I thank them all for their contribution and continuing support and belief in me. They/you know who they/you are.
The transformational difference for me is that by the end of the year, I finally clearly saw how dependent I’ve been in terms of defining myself as others see me and then attempting to fit into what I think that is. The result for me has been that, in trying to “fit” their image, I was not fully and comfortably “fitting” into myself.
One of the prime examples in this past year has been in the promotion of my Through and From the Lens/Point and Shoot Photo Course.

It is a core course I’ve developed that has made a remarkable difference for participants AND I’ve been relying on others to point me in the direction of the “best” web page, marketing, and more.

My reasons for citing this here is twofold:
1 – You may find yourself in some of what I’ve shared about my experiences, and
2 -I wanted to give you the opportunity for early registration into
the now-referred-to-as the “Through and From the Lens Point and Shoot Photocourses” –
Please check the link out.  I would love to be connecting with you on a more direct level, furthering what we see in Picture to Ponder.
I feel blessed to have you in my life. Thank you for being there. May you have a very Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2010.

{ 0 comments }

Holiday Warmth and Light from Wakodahatchee Wetlands Reeds in Picture to Ponder – vol 5 – 47

by Sheila Finkelstein on December 22, 2009

With this issue of Picture to Ponder, I wish Happy Holidays to those who still have celebrations up coming.

I would expect you, like I, have a long to-do list and may also be inundated with the wide range of emails offering holiday and year-end specials. I am thus being VERY BRIEF.

Yesterday I was working on the bonus gift I’m preparing for Allison Maslin’s BLAST OFF book launch in January. It’s a REFLECTIONS PDF slide show with Queries from Picture to Ponder.

One photo I’ve included is below, that of reeds reflecting sunlight in Wakodahatchee Wetlands. It popped out at me when I was selecting photos for the bonus and again today.

To me, in addition to the light, it’s also exuding warmth. So, I offer it to you now, wishing you light and warmth, wherever you are, during this season.

Should it be a challenging time for you, I invite you to pause, close your eyes and do some deep breathing.

Self Reflecting Queries –

Where in your life is there light and warmth? Who are the people past and present who have contributed that to you? Is there a way for you to express your gratitude?

Do remember to acknowledge yourself. In the gratitude there is light.

{ 4 comments }

Stories and Limiting Beliefs – Rain Drops and Wood Knots – Picture to Ponder v5-46.

by Sheila Finkelstein on December 18, 2009

Earlier this week, when I put together the mailing on Nature Art Gifts, I stated that I would follow up with the story on ease and synchronicity. It’s really a simple story. Yet the “weight” of writing “the right thing,” and the other “stories” I’ve been creating during this week, have resulted in a huge delay. I am now sending this issue of Picture to Ponder out now, simply because I said I would.

First story – Once I decided to create the one-stop-shopping page, I needed a header with an expressive picture. I went to the folder that has the almost 1,500 plus photos used in Picture to Ponder during the past five years and the Feral Parrot, featured 3 1/2 years ago, seemed to open itself out of nowhere. He seemed to be representing inquiry and appreciation. So I went with the photo, extending the background to fill the desired space for the banner.

Next, I decide I wanted to use a different font and I clicked on the first one that caught my eye. Never used by me before, it was perfect!

The bottom line – a simple story of what can happen when we let go of needing to know how something is going to look.

Further “stories” that occupied my week revolved in large part around my 70th birthday being on Thursday. I had been making the number mean, I am “old” despite my looking younger and feeling a lot younger than my internal, past-based conversations of what “70” is/would be.

Then because I was open, as a result of the morning walk discussed below,  I could hear who I am reflected by coach Sue Stebbins in a teleclass call yesterday. I was able to accept and start owning that my experience, creativity and youthfulness are all strengths with which I can position myself.

Also, underlying my earlier expectations of what my day was going to be like was the fact that Sam is no longer here to celebrate this milestone. I was certain I was going to be “tearing-up” throughout the day.  When I woke up in the morning, I decided a shift in routine might help; so I went a morning walk at Wakodahatchee Wetlands.

Today’s Photos constitute the story of the walk that did result in a dramatic energy shift, setting up a great celebratory day.

Shortly into my walk at Wakodahatchee, I noticed remnants of raindrops hanging down from the boardwalk railing. “Oh, my tears,” thought I. So I pulled the camera out of my bag and started photographing.

Further along my walk it started drizzling and the camera went back into the bag. Once under a covered area on the boardwalk I got under my umbrella, took the camera out and used the movie setting to record the “tears” creating ripples in the water. Listen closely and you can hear the sounds of birds.

It stopped raining and I continued my walk, going right passed something that caught my eye on one of the boards underneath. Then I heard my inner voice, “Stop. Go back. Whenever something catches their eyes, you teach people to pause and photograph it.” So the camera came out again and I turned around.

I took several photos along the board, getting particularly excited with the one above that looks like a soaring bird with neck stuck way out.

Going to the other side of the plank, the same image now looks like a snake coming at me. Or, perhaps it’s a turtle swimming toward us.

Yesterday’s photographing ended with my pointing out the images in the wood knots to a passing couple. They immediately saw what I saw and more and proceeded to tell me that there is a “lion” that can’t me missed on the boardwalk in a section of Green Cay Wetlands. I was assured that it is quite obvious.

Though I’ve walked at Green Cay countless times, I have not seen the lion. It’s now on my list to seek out, once the weather clears.

I am grateful that I live so close to these wonderful Nature walks and in the weather to enjoy them year round. I am also grateful to my family and friends. Having set it up with my walk to be such, it turned out to be a great day of celebrating going into my 8th decade!!

Self-Reflecting Queries –
Today’s issue is really a demonstration of “limiting beliefs” and choices that can be made to stay in negative spaces or create shifts beyond.

As you know, I use my camera and encourage you to do the same. If you have not seen, or read it for a while, you can find “7 Tips for Getting Out of a Funk” on eZine Articles.

I invite you to find, and make note of, the tools you use to get unstuck. Are there situations now around which you are “spinning” negative stories? Things you are reluctant to do? Or face? If so, I invite you to find the actions that will create shifts for you.

Holidays are very difficult for many of us. Should you be in that situation, I wish you an easy, happy way to make a change in that state for you.

As always, have fun with this. Stories can be lots of fun, especially when we create happy endings.

{ 6 comments }

Picture to Ponder 5 Year Birthday – Images in Nature – Vol 5 – Issue 45

by Sheila Finkelstein on December 9, 2009

REMINDER _  I will be interviewed on Blog Talk Radio by Amethyst Wyldfyre this Friday, December 11th at 4 PM Eastern US time. Amethyst has entitled the program “The Gifted Hand, The Gifted Eye – Fine Arts for the Holidays: Interview with Sheila Finkelstein” I’d love for you to join us. Please bookmark SHOW. You can listen on the web, call in and/or download the call after the show, if the time does not work for you.

Birthday Acknowledgment and History –
My other big news is that today we are celebrating the 5th anniversary of Picture to Ponder, which was launched on December 9, 2004.

I did a count the other day and saw that today marks the 476th issue. Starting out with simply a photo, discussed in the next issue, four times a week, we shifted eventually to the current one issue per week with both photos and self-reflecting queries. The latter evolved and became “official” after about six months.

In Issue 1, as I described what I planned, I stated:
MISSION –
It is my desire to inspire you to discover and expand your own greatness of seeing, imagining and/or creating.

From comments I’ve gotten over the years I think I am fulfilling on this.

Today’s Photos –

hobo in the first issue of Picture to Ponder

The above is the first first photo I featured. As described in Issue 2

“YESTERDAY’S IMAGE –
the remains of a tree damaged by the Florida hurricane, then cut.

THE IMAGERY –
for my husband – the HOBO in the center of the trunk
for me – a cat’s face. with whiskers, seen for the first time yesterday, after I sent this off, and for you??”

Since that time, I recall this as the “Hobo Photo.” I’d even forgotten the “cat.” As I look at it now, I think the cat part appears when we disregard the black portion and look at the whole space surrounding it.

As most of you know, Sam is no longer here to share interpretations with me, so for the most part the added dimension comes when you add your experience or interpretations on the blog.

I was fortunate, the other night. I shared a photo in my camera viewfinder with a couple  in Green Cay Wetlands, as they, too, were exiting. In the distance,

duckweed and image in Green Cay Wetlands

I had seen a stumpy man with a green cap and sunglasses, so I zoomed in.

image of a man with sunglasses in nature

I thought I would use it here and simply label it as “Unidentified Object”, after sharing my interpretation. I really had no idea of what I was looking at. Fortunately, for my curious mind, I shared this with the couple mentioned above. How delighted I was that I did.

“It’s a turtle,” one said. I looked at it and, of course, it became quite obvious once it was pointed out. As a matter of fact, all they had to do was say “turtle” and I saw it immediately. The “sunglasses” were part of the turtle’s body, the “nose”, his head. The “green cap” was duckweed on the turtle’s shell.

None of us, though, could determine what it was sitting on, so we decided to leave it labeled as an imaginary wolf.

Ever curious, I did go back a little earlier the next day for a clearer view. With the duckweed in the water having moved on also, it became quite obvious that it was a log, now looking more like a resting dog.

log that looks like a dog in the water at Green Cay Wetlands

A close up brings our attention more to the full experience of both the “face” and its reflection, and there might be yet another interpretation. I’ll leave that one to you.

close up of the log dog in Green Cay water

If you have an interpretation to share, please post it below.

As an aside, if you are interested in surfing through some of the issues over the years you can check the eZezine Archives for issues from Issue 4 up through October 2008. Please tell anyone you might share this with NOT use the subscribe button on the eZezine archive pages. We are now at aWeber and you can see the archives from October 2008 to now at aWeber PTP Archives.

I also have all of the issues on eteletours.com. Starting with Issue 1 – http://www.eteletours.com/issue1.html you can scroll through all of the issues by using the arrows at the bottom of each issue or by changing the number in the URL.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
I started out stating that today’s issue is a celebration. I’m certainly not “jumping up and down”… the image that the word “celebrate” pulls up for me… and I am acknowledging the pleasure, satisfaction and feeling of accomplishment at ongoingly fulfilling on a mission declared five years ago.

What is your view of “celebration” and how do you celebrate yourself? I invite you to find one or more things for which you would like to acknowledge yourself. Certainly feel welcomed to post them on the blog.

Also, the main theme of the photos revolves around “interpretations” and expanding ourselves when we are open to others’ interpretations and points of view. I invite you to find something that may be intriguing you… a visual image, or a happening… and get in conversation with another about it. Before sharing your interpretation(s), invite them to share theirs. Is it different? the same? and/or do new possibilities open up for you?

You might even use today’s photos as the ones to open up dialogue. If you do, please post your experience on the blog.

As always, have fun with this.

Also, if you would like to experience the expansion of your own discovering and sharing of interpretations in the upcoming Telecourse for which I am in the process of setting up dates, you can put yourself on the “Be-Informed” list form at the bottom of the page on Point and Shoot Photo Courses.

Other Interpretations and Celebrations –
One of the things I have neglected to share here is that a few months ago I took the bold step of having professionally scanned several of my Fantasy Landscape water color series to make them available as giclee prints.

I recently set up the sales page at NATURE’S TREASURES INTERPRETED

Notecards of four of the images will also be available, for sale and holiday gift giving, by tomorrow.

set of 4 NTI notecards
NTI-002 note card
 NTI-001 note card
NTI-003 note card
#NTI 001
#NTI 002
#NTI 003
#NTI 004

Reader’s Comments are welcome.
To post them here, click on the small word “Comment” at the end of the post. A window will open, asking for your name, email address that will NOT be published, a URL if you have – Your name will be linked to that – and a box with space for you to “Leave a Reply” will be there to type in your response. Then remember to click on “Submit.”

{ 4 comments }

Window Reflections – Shifting Perspectives- Picture to Ponder- Vol 5 – Issue 44

by Sheila Finkelstein on December 4, 2009

Before discussing the photos in today’s Picture to Ponder, I’d like to invite you to mark your calendar for the interview Amethyst Wyldfyre will be doing with me on her Blazing Forth the Light, Blog Talk Radio Show, next Friday, December 11th at 4 PM US Eastern Time. Amethyst has kindly entitled the show The Gifted Hand, The Gifted Eye – Fine Art for the Holidays with Sheila Finkelstein. Part of what I will be covering will be the Art and Gift of you and our other readers and gifts you can be creating. See SHOW for details

Now to Today’s Photos – I mentioned last week that I had recently been attracted to window reflections and mentally was planning a whole “lesson” in seeing – expectations – and shifts. On Sunday, after a weekend art show, I glanced across the park into windows above a shop and was captivated by the reflections.

I won’t know until I start writing here today, what the “lessons”, if any, will be. Let’s simply start with the photographs.

reflections in patio windos

In this first photo, I was on an early afternoon conference call sitting at one end of my patio. When I looked across, to the left of my kitchen doors, I became intrigued by what appeared to be an extension of my house on the “outside”, as well as the wavy images in the door, seen on the left.

I did, of course, after the call, take more close-up photos of the patterned reflections, then went outside to double check that, in fact, my house does end with the glass windows, no other extensions. I include the full-view photo here to simply give a sense of the scene and its possibilities.

The next two photographs are among those which I took of assorted reflections in the upper story windows across from the park last weekend.

reflections in window in building in Delray Beach #2

Outside, inside, does it matter which?
Diagonal lines, curved, straight
Vertical, horizontal, one or the other
Does it make a difference?

Which, if any, have more appeal?

reflections in windows of a building in Delray Beach #1

For me, the most artistic of the three is the center photo – flowing shapes in the reflections, with faint, straight, diagonal lines. All are anchored by the bold lines of the window frame.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
The main point of these reflections photographs, is to invite you to also look at reflections that might be showing up in windows through which you frequently look. If you do not immediately see anything reflected, change your position. And, whether you do or don’t see reflections the first time, I invite you to also check the same windows a few times during the same day and evening.

You will probably be surprised to note that you may be seeing reflections and images that are quite different each time you look.
If you start noticing anything new or different in this way, I invite you to look at one or more situations, or relationships, in your life. Does it, do they, change when you move, shift perspectives, alter the time of day or night, when you are studying it/them?

In the above photos, there are many dimensions which we could spend a lot of time attempting to figure out what belongs where. What is actually being reflected? Which of the images are reflections? Which are actually there in the exact position in which we see them?

We can ask ourselves all these questions, find the answers, and then what? Is is sometimes sufficient to simply enjoy and be with what is? Might the enjoyment be even greater at times if we remain in a state of appreciation, rather than dissection?

What comes up for me is to remind myself, as much as I love inquiry and discovery, that I often have peaceful times when I allow myself to simply be and appreciate.

How about you? As always, have fun with this.

Have you asked anyone lately how they perceive you? If not, I invite you to do so. I often experience a greater sense of myself when I see myself reflected in another’s words. You might be pleasantly surprised. Why not treat yourself and another the opportunity to “gift” you their vision of you.

A recent example for me, relates to the upcoming radio show mentioned earlier and Amethyst Wyldfyre’s description of me, on her main Blog Talk Radio page. Under upcoming interviews, she refers to me as a “prolific photographer and brilliant artist” who “…is also an inspiring teacher and has brought many of her students to the gifts of creative self expression.” Thank you, Amethyst.

Do please bookmark the site and join us. If the time does not work for you, you will be able to download the call at a later time.

I also invite you to check out some of what Amethyst is up to with her work with Energy Mastery for the Evolving Entrepreneur on her Energy Journey.com site. You can also learn more about her and her shamanic work and Crystal Bowl Sound Healing on AmethystWyldfyre.com.

Lastly, if you are ready to move into your own creative mode, I invite you to check out some of what’s available on the site of my friend, wildly creative Marney Makridakis:

Programs for Your Own Creative Mode –

A Special Gift Marney has offered Picture to Ponder Subscribers –

A F*R*EE copy of the Artella eBook, Artella’s Step-by-Step Vintage Holiday Cards, an eBook featuring 10 beautiful handmade cards, complete with photos and descriptive “how-to” instructions, showcasing a variety of techniques such as rubber stamping, collage, and innovative paper and mixed media arts.
 Download your copy here!


For year-round creative ideas and activities, check out the 55% off savings on Holiday Gift Memberships on Artella’s Creativity (virtual) Cruise Ship.

And, if you are a coach, or want some creative ideas for art activities geared toward transformation and growth, check out “Creativity, Intuition, and Choice” in ARTbundance Coach Training Sample Class on Tuesday night December 8th.

truck clockFinally, a reminder – If you are doing holiday shopping I invite you to remember to check out my GIFT SHOP I especially love the pillows and keepsake tiles boxes and decorating with the clocks

December 7th – 9th – Free economy shipping on orders of $50 or more with coupon code: HOLIDAYSHIPS

Reader’s Comments are welcome.
Click on the small word “Comment” at the end of the post. A window will open, asking for your name, email address that will NOT be published, a URL if you have – Your name will be linked to that – and a box with space for you to “Leave a Reply” will be there to type in your response. Then remember to click on “Submit.”

{ 2 comments }

Water Lilies Spread Thanksgiving Light and Cheer – Picture to Ponder- Vol 5 – issue 43

by Sheila Finkelstein on November 24, 2009

I was attracted to window reflections recently and mentally was planning a whole “lesson” in seeing – expectations – and shifts. Somehow it was falling flat for me, at least for now. Then, tonight I was surfing through my Cafe Press Gift shop, going over some items for a customer order. (Should you be interested, there are a couple of free shipping promos upcoming. See below.)

I was once again pulled in, and enlivened, by the purple tropical water lily, a Picture to Ponder favorite that I’ve used a few times.

purple tropical water lily

It seemed to be the perfect photo to use here now, as we approach Thanksgiving in the United States. I like the feeling of opening up, spreading light and joy. May there be an abundance of good for us all.

TODAY’S PHOTOS –
As I was looking at the calendar page in the shop and at the above purple, tropical water lily on the year-at-a-glance calendar, I saw my photo/drawing version of the same flower.

tropical purple water lily photo/drawing

I share it here for you to experience the subtle differences. Lastly, as I was being with this water lily from a fountain pond in the American Orchid Society Gardens in Delray Beach, FL,  I was reminded of another beautiful pink water lily from the 4 Arts Gardens in Palm Beach.

pink tropical water lily

This last one, right now, espcially leaves me feeling serene and at peace. I wish the same for you as we enter what becomes for many a very hectic holiday season.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
I invite to be with the above photos and note your responses. Do any of them evoke feelings of abundance or peace in you?

Where in your life do you go, mentally or physically, when you wish to experience serenity? enlivenment?

Where is the strongest light in your life? And, for what are you most thankful?

For me it is family and friends, including you, that I am most grateful. I especially appreciate the support, knowing that there are people on whom I can count.

In addition, I am excited with the new people I’ve been meeting, as well as the new business connections I’ve been making.

I invite you to think of those in your life, acknowledge them, and certainly share with us on the blog, if you so desire.

Love and peace.

And as always, have fun.

Special Offers –

1 – I am excited to be trying out (free trial) my new friend, Allison Maslan’s BLASTATION program. It is an Interactive Life Coaching Web-Based Software – a completely unique do-it-all hub to help us key in on our life passions, become inspired, stay optimistic and get organized.

We will feel accomplished as Blastation keeps us on track and
on target with our large and small life visions. It breaks our large goals and projects into small steps so we know exactly what to do every single day to turn our dreams into reality!

You, too, can experience the fully interactive 30 day free trial. See, BLASTATION.

2 – I first “met” Allison when I was invited to participate in her BLAST OFF: The Surefire Success Plan to Launch Your Dreams into Reality book launch on January 19th. It sounds like quite an exciting book. You can visit the Book Launch page to read about the special PDF Slide show, plus, that I am creating as one of the many exciting bonuses being offered for purchasers of the book. I will be allowing you, with permission to use the photos for your web activities.

Allison is also giving away a 1-on-1 Life and Business Coaching Program, worth thousands of dollars, as the first prize for a special contest. Check the Book Launch page for details on entering. While there you can also sign up to be reminded of the launch and the bonuses, as the launch date approaches.

3 – Lastly if you are doing holiday shopping I invite you to remember to check out my GIFT SHOP I especially love the pillows and keepsake tiles boxes and decorating with the clocks –

Free Shipping November 30th (Cyber Monday) – Free economy shipping on orders of $60 or more with coupon code: MONDAYSHIP

December 7th – 9th – Free economy shipping on orders of $50 or more with coupon code: HOLIDAYSHIPS

Reader’s Comments are welcome.
To post them on the  blog click on the small word “Comment” at the end of the post. A window will open, asking for your name, email address that will NOT be published, a URL if you have – Your name will be linked to that – and a box with space for you to “Leave a Reply” will be there to type in your response. Then remember to click on “Submit.”

If posting on a blog is not your style, please continue to send your comments directly to me. Learning what you are experiencing means a lot. It is part of the reward, for me, of publishing Picture to Ponder.

{ 1 comment }

Flowing Lines – Openings or Confrontations – Picture to Ponder – Vol. 5 – Issue 42

by Sheila Finkelstein on November 18, 2009

Today’s Picture to Ponder writing will really be brief. Each issue seems to take a few hours and then I wonder why. So today I am going to practice brevity and allow most of the pondering and querying up to you.

TODAY’S PHOTOS –

I started searching past issues for “reflections” and then moved on to more recent unpublished photos. The following three very, different images popped out at me.

A fence reflected in a swimming pool,
Striped like a tiger or
Bars like a jail? Caging us in or
Keeping us out?

Yet the soft rhythm of the water –
Subtle…
And the lines…
The curve of the bottom/top of the fence
Looping and sharp, then solid,
Establishing direction

All balance into the imperfect
Perfection of life.

More vertical lines
Some very direct.
Contrasted with the water lines
These seem to make a wall,
Almost impenetrable.

Yet there are small openings and
The opportunity to marvel at Nature
Braiding the palm leaves as they
Hang toward the end of their life.


When life complete,
Dropped on the ground,
Wrapped in yet another way.

Self-Reflecting Queries –
I am not sure why I selected these photos today. Or, perhaps the question is, “Why did they select themselves to be the featured ones?”

I invite you to be with them and pay attention to whatever your responses are. Should it be to shrug off today’s photos, I suggest you query why. Are there other places in your life where you might have a similar response? If so, does this serve you?

I’m finding it interesting, that I am making the assumption that you may find the photos uninspiring… not worthy… and whatever other negative thoughts/judgments you might make. I can certainly track these feelings to other areas of my life. Do they forward me? No! What about you?

For me, in part, it is the intrigue in these photographs that capture my attention and the linear flow of the imagery.

Lastly, as I was “wrapping up” here, I glanced once more at the photographs and in each I found some humor. Once again there is another level of “story” I can make up.

What about you? Are you creating any stories pursuant to these photos? Do they support you?

If you’ve seen or created some stories, I’d love for you to share them on the blog.

As always, have fun with this.

{ 1 comment }

← Previous Entries

Next Entries →