Alliteration Fliteration

AdAge is telling us creatives to get over our fear of alliteration & rhyming.

Why?

Because Mother Goose & Dr. Suess (oooh, I rhymed) was more than a handful a childhood stories to learn by, the these schemas taught us memorization. Singing also teaches memorization, but not many are fascinated with being included in my personal musical.

Simple, familiar sounds work easier at recall magic.

Alliteration is the repetition of the first consonant sound in a phrase. It's also consider a 'head rhyme' because the rhyming begins at the start of the word.

"Bumbling, babbling band of baboons" (Goblet of Fire.)

Rhyming can be used in a specific and a general sense. Feminine, masculine, dactylic, syllabic, imperfect, semirhyme, assonance, consonance, half-rhyme are myriad way one can work unaided recall.

Rhyme Time
Loose Goose
Rumble and Tumble

Slogans: "One flick of your Bic, I can see you're a hick.'"

When I need to memorize words, phrases or ideas, I run thru the list of synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms to speed the recall process.

Product Alliteration
While you're busy managing your memorization, one should also look at business names, processes, and products that need to be named and labeled. When we were crafting the calligraphic style of my pets in 2001, we ran thru a dozen names before Andrew announced, "CalligraphyCats."

It made perfect sense. It's alliterative and it elucidates the form, function, and output of my product.

So, the next time you're dreaming and scheming of your new product line, head to the alliteration station and get your rhyme on.

Now, I think this just might help with my podcasting... Stay tuned!

CalligraphyCats - A Crazy Summer Sale!

Cats Gone Crazy Summer Sale.

It's a 4-for-3 Special! Bacchus, Purreth, Stretcher, & Walketh are available to you for only $74.99!!

No substitutions please.

Dog Days of Summer Sale

Dog Days Summer Sale.

It's a two for one Special! Fetcher & Scratcher are available to you for only $24.99!!

No substitutions please.

Vote: Your Favorite Image

Voting Contest!

Within my CREATIVEGoddess blog, you'll find a new contest with new patterns! Feast your eyes and vote for your favorite pattern. We hope you'll like!

Vote: Favorite Pattern for Pillow

Page: Extras > Contests > Vote

What Color is Your Emotional Base?

Another possible title: What color is your eye sugar?

I'm in the midst of redefining the space in our former theater turned production area. We'll miss our movie nights downstairs as this was the area where Bacchus & the Ball of Yarn was born.

I've decided that I really want to make this space work hard. The things I'd like to accomplish in this space is storage, shipping, sewing, and painting. Real painting, like on canvases and stuff! I've got such the itch to clean pigment from under my fingernails.

Additionally, I'd like to take advantage of the technology we have (video camera & Apple equipment) and begin creating video blogs; I'd like to show my enthusiasts just what it is I do on a regular basis and dispelling any myths about us, "creativetypes." Andrew believes I'm just going to reinforce them, but we'll let you be the judge.

I photographed the progress of the renovation today that reveals a bit of madness, but no fear, a bit of method to all of this. I love looking thru the camera lens because I'm able to eliminate the clutter of life and focus on what is to become important: the space. The particular area is this angular wall Andrew built back in 2001 because he wanted to block off an area for his office. I'm proud that we worked out the plans in my journal on the way back from our first trip to London between repeat showings of Shrek. He actually took my advice and has never looked back -that's one indicator of how well we manage to shelve our egos when necessary.

Knowing that I want to do some videoblogging downstairs, we need to repaint -at least of portion of it because it's current color state is dark blue. Andrew insisted that the color be dark in the theater because if we're watching movies, he wanted the wall to recede when watching epic pictures. After taking a few photos, I realized that I want to repaint with a color that is light and a satin base (to reflect light easily) and with a red base so that my complexion is complemented.

PSYCHOLOGY COLOR TIPs: Depending on what room you're painting in your house, you'll want to be thoughtful about your choices and this is what you can remember:

Red induces hunger & energy. For me, red is sugar for the eyes. Yum! If you're an eat-to-live person, red is a good color choice for a kitchen; however, if you've got an eating disorder, green is better. I wanted red in our kitchen, but Andrew chose a dark billiard green instead and I'm fine with that -I don't think he was aware about the emotional statement he was making, but I'm no judge. We've also got a sage in our dining room to promote a healthy, calm eating lifestyle. Plus, it's just plain pretty.

Blue can induce depression, banality. When you're painting your bathroom, don't make it blue. Studies have shown that more people call in sick because when they get up in the morning, their eyes haven't adjusted and with the influence of blue on their complexion, they suddenly become influenced by the 'blahs' and then it just snowballs. Your bathroom should have some kind of red base, at the very least.

Yellow is like liver: It can provide a very positive response or anger. If you're painting your baby's room, rethink the yellow choice. A buttercup is nice, but the sunshine banana yellow can keep your baby upset. If this is your predicament, you can hang pretty sheers over the walls in any color to calm baby. Personally, I don't like the banana color; I get so angst-ridden I have to leave the room. Although, I do love gold -love love love that old world hue.

Green induces tranquility and serenity. We love green and have used shades of it liberally thru-out the house. It works well with the peanut butter we've chosen for the living room -very Earthy.

Purple induces affection and passion. I prefer periwinkle over gray because it's got just a hint of color. The perfect periwinkle has equal parts of both blue & red and this is the color of our bedroom. All colors and materials support the versatile hue extremely well: from rich, dark winter fabrics to fresh Spring colors -it's just a dynamic color.

Orange induces a similar energy that red stimulates. It's also very youthful & hip. We don't use much of it, if at all. We like to think of ourselves as hip, but it might be a throwback from our pre-pubescent years we spent in the 70s.

So, with this knowledge, I'm using a red-base color for the wall color -perhaps something within the terracotta family: dry or wet. Currently, I've got a wet terracotta color in my office and I never grow tired of it. It has just enough red to keep me engaged in my activities and I never want to leave.

While looking thru the lens, another 'a-ha' moment hit: chalkboard paint!! Yea mahn! Chalkboard paint. When I simultaneously create my art and videoblog, I can talk and write notes on the board -how cool is that? When I ran upstairs to tell Andrew, he also suggested that we take the cork squares we bought many years ago and install them so that I can post my ideas -fabulous! I'm thinking we'll do long sections, column form, and also put them on a board then install the board so that we can preserve them for other spaces if necessary. We'll make the chalkboard paint magnetic, too!

Ohhhhh, I can't wait!!

Now that I've revealed how I love to live in color and my emotional base, what's yours?

Stacation Updates: An Effortless Task

This weekend with 'the wall' went up without a hitch. I was really expecting more of a tumultuous issue than we had, but our predecessors helped us out -and you won't believe how!!

After spending an hour Thursday Night clearing out stuff that lay against the wall, Andrew began light demolition the next morning until I returned from my walk. I dragged my sorry butt into the house and he pulled me downstairs to reveal the idiocy left behind by the former owners.

The infamous double doors. (click to enlarge at your discretion)
1+2)Braced by only trim work by our brilliant predecessors. We're thankful we didn't have another hurricane, or worse, a wolf come blowing down our doors!




3+4)Nothing says love like inserting an inappropriate moisture-prone wood door used for dry spaces. They must have installed these for the 'quick sale.'




5+6) Two! Count 'em: 2 micey nests. Tucked neatly under this nasty step -they got in, but they didn't get out. Evidently, they died in place similar to those peat bog burial rituals found in Ireland.


Fast forward to framing
7+8] Jim finally showed after demolition -a much cleaner endeavor- trumor has it that he just got a manicure. Borrowing awesome nail guns from our good neighbor, Mike, we, er, Andrew and Jim built and installed the framing. 9-11) Rubber sheeting applied to outside to prevent moisture and windows installed; Andrew routers out the sections for windows.



12) After cutting and fitting insulation, we used materials given to us by Mike and his former projects -we love handy neighbors. Thanks, Mike! We finally got smart and snapped the drywall to create cleaner openings for the trim that will get inserted. 13) A hard day's work deserves lotsa protein -and a fabbo salad built by Jim. This was definitely photoworthy.



Hints & Tips: Making a Daunting Task Effortless
Sure, I grew up with tools of all kinds and Andrew has an industrial design background, but having these backgrounds doesn't necessarily make any project easy. Keep in mind that:

1. Egos are sure to be involved. I have to say, Andrew & I mesh very well when it comes to projects: one is the project lead and the other is minion -and we alternate.


2. Another important factor is research. This may be books we bring home from the home improvement store, online searches, even the next door neighbor. Although it was the holiday weekend, Mike availed himself to us for a consult since he's already flipped a house and is now currently working on his deck.


3. Right Tools. One needs the right tool for the right job. If you're painting, don't open the can with a screwdriver, snag a churchkey from the paintstore -they're free. If you're doing framing of any kind, use a automatic nailer -it makes a difference. Oh, they're not free, so don't be afraid to rent the tool.


4. Friends. There are many a guy out there who insist on doing projects themselves. I know that when strength will be tested on an hourly basis, he's going to need help. Sure, there's always me and I'm usually right in there getting my hands dirty, mosquito bitten, cut, but no matter what it takes, employ the help of a friend. If you think the project will only take 2 people, get a 3rd. Be sure not abuse your friend for stupid tasks -use him only for those that require brut strength. You know there's going to be reciprocity, so choose wisely.


5. Know Your Limits. If a project looks simple and you've got the genius to do it, be sure to schedule between the raindrops. Keep a tarp and phone number of a local handyman expert handy.


6. Double the cost, Double the time. For any project, estimate how much it will cost, then double it. Estimate the time, and double it.


7. Keep a Sense of Humor. Any project can get soured quickly by a number of things -egos, primarily. Remembering the fact that we're all imperfect humans "should" mitigate any disaster -provided it's not a disaster that lands us in ER.

Got any tips? We'd love to hear them!

Next on CREATIVEGoddess: Will Jim ever get his hands dirty? Will the rain and humidity dry up so that we can install our siding and paint our fresh spackled walls? Will I ever get my remodelled production area in a state of extreme efficiency? Will Mike ever finish his deck?? Will Andrew and I finally get the mannies & peddies we so richly deserve??

Stay tuned...

First Video Podcast

By hook or by crook, I managed to get a video podcast together.

Now, from what I've learned by reading and watching, one should take quite a bit of b-footage to fill in spot montages. I was recording in front of the camera because I wanted to get used to being on the other side.

Take a look at the video on my CREATIVEGoddess blog and be prepared to ROTFL.

You can also subscribe to my YouTube Channel: ecstewart

Guess the Step to Win A Downward Dog Print

Guess the Steps to Win Downward Dog Unframed Print

After all the walking we did in NYC, I decided this would be a fun contest to guess the count the steps we took.

Everything is outlined in the contest, including hints on how to arrive at the perfect count. Last one there walks home!

Go to the contest and submit your answer today!

How to Despise A Country in 10 Minutes or Less

Actually two countries. Okay, definitely one and a scary, neglectful event with another.

I've hesitated posting this all week because I was upset. I thought that by allowing a few days to pass, my agitation would too, but it hasn't. I also used the word f*ck and thought that might offend a few folks, so I didn't, no need to worry there. But a girl has to speak her mind, so here it goes.

Due to the weak Dollar, we're getting an influx of visitors from other countries -and that's great. Really. It's fun to feel like we're in an international city, like London where one can hear several different dialects surrounding one's table.


Unfortunately for those of us allergic to children, please dear God, put your kid on a leash. It's not that we enjoy observing kids tethered like abandoned dogs in suburbia... Actually, we advocate that parents harness their kids because it's a win-win situation: The kid gets to enjoy the independence of exploration & good for the parent to keep 2 hands free to browse stores and know exactly where their kid is at all times. Andrew was harnessed and you see how badly he turned out! Frankly, we just don't want to see kids hurt.

We're enjoying dinner at one of our favorite haunts at an outside table, and we're backed by another restaurant that is filled with a huge extended Russian family. I gots no problems with Russians, I do have problems with folks who neglect their kids because they're too busy talking and not watching their children. For the most part, the passle of kids were good, just enjoying playing musical chairs but when the parents get upset with me because I yell at the little girl to get out of the street because she's in danger of getting hit by a car... Well don't yell at me and give me dirty looks, put a damn harness on your kid.

NOTE: NYC drivers don't know the meaning of driving under 45mph. Period.

I have to clear the air about some misconceptions about other cultures. For the love of Pete, let's not generalize certain ones, say, the French, for being rude in their own country. They're frilling rude in this country, too!!

I do my best to remain open-minded and culturally sensitive, but being affronted by the ungracious malcontents of global society is quite another. My attitude about stupid Americans has changed -at least when we're travelling like a band of gypsies, one usually is aware of a party of 2 who aren't going to take up too much time getting out of the way. Say, like when you've got a cart full of groceries and you notice the guy behind you has only a carton of ice cream -let him thru.

My body was plummeting and the fact that they ignored me really pissed me off. We found ourselves getting rudely pushed back while standing in line to check our bags at the MoMA because a seemingly innocent couple was actually holding the line for ten (10)!!! I knew they understood, because the coatroom guy was speaking English to them. The grandmother looked at me and I showed her my innermost demon. I was sick from nausea, wished I could have summoned a Linda Blair moment.

I'm boycotting anything French until further notice. In fact, I'm putting the French on notice -think I'll twitter my bud, Mister Col-bear and tell him to do it for me.

ECStewart iTouch Wallpapers

Isn't it about time you had some luxe wallpaper for your iTouch or iPhone?

Indeed! Now, I'm providing you with a few designer iTouch/iPhone Wallpapers from CalligraphyPets & ECStewart Collections. Each time you reach for a new tune, your very own Bacchus can bring a smile to your heart.

Wallpapers Du Jour: (Right click to upload)








Let us know if these are beautiful enough for you. If not, tell us what you'd like to see turned into an iPhone wallpaper.

Not for resale.

Becoming Renaissance

Robert Genn of The Painter's Keys recently wrote an article on Renaissance. After reading it, I think of it in terms of Becoming Renaissance.



Renaissance is defined as 'rebirth.' As an openness to change, rethinking, examination, and often reinvention of more classical forms, it was viewed as a bridge between Middle Ages and the Modern era. The renaissance emcompassed revolutions in intellectual and creative pursuits and it definitely wasn't without social and political upheaval.

As a 40-something American witnessing, reading, and living movements within the past century, I often wonder how I might plant my creative revolution -and now I know. Amidst all the globalization of ideals, products, and of course, political strife, I'm gladdened to be a part of the micro-businesses that are beginning to thrive as a juxtaposition to big corporations.



Meanwhile, R. Genn feels the idea of renaissance has eight great principles that should be considered. I've outlined them with my comments included.

Curiosity as a way of thinking
I'm always accused of thinking -and rightfully so. I wonder how things work, either as a functioning gearbox to the components of production. Remain open-minded and you'll stay alert.

Suspicion of authority and conventional wisdom
I shun the phrase, "It's always been done this way and it will remain so." This screams, "I refuse to grow and change with the times." Stay away from short-circuited maxims like these.

Respect for intelligently filtered history
Understand the term presentism and you'll crave a more pragmatic, investigative approach. One might also exercise objective knowledge by writing down 3 different perspectives to each belief:

Does the view change if:
-I'm coming from a different culture or religion?
-I'm from a different economic or class background?
-I'm a member of the opposite gender?

Interviewing friends also helps to see the issue from another side.

Aspiration to higher levels of achievement
Never be content. Enjoy what you've created and continue to move on to learn additional methods of technique or production.

Vision for renewed potential in all things
Whenever I collect items or ideas, new or used, I like to envision them as pulling double-duty. Found items and techniques can be delightful when integrated in a new composition.

Tendency to invent private systems
I'm constantly revising systems introduced to me to make them work better for me; sometimes I share those systems and sometimes I don't. I also have several creative systems that are still in development.

Reinvention and perfection of former skills
Everything from mathematics, research, working out, painting, or music, I'm always seeking new ways to better these skills through life learning exercises. Okay, cooking, too.

Accepting the challenge of the difficult
I've always sought out the most difficult piece of sheet music to play and learn. It was always a challenge to learn each bar then piece them together with proficiency, but even more of a challenge to play musically. I look at life's challenge's this way, too:

-Break the difficult challenges into smaller segments (bars or phrases)
-Play each one (ie research, illustrate, compute) until you're satisfied with the outcome, and
-Move forward to the next challenge.
-Rinse & Repeat

Formerly, I viewed difficult situations akin to golf: Each swing taken, from the tee to the final putt in the hole is viewed as tiny goals of the whole. Now, I like analogy of playing music: From the first note to the last, the entire piece performed is artfully finished.

I found a book several years ago called, "How to Think Like DaVinci; Seven Steps to Genius Every Day by Michael J Gelb. If you want to learn more about how you can live the renaissance lifestyle, this book guides one to understand human potential through the integration of mind, body, spirit, and soul. Plus it's got self assessments throughout to track just how far off course you are -er, how far off course I am.

Companies That Win Me Over

Joseph Phelps Vineyard
Why? Because they have done what I've wanted someone to do for a very long time. Create cross-pollinating menus based on their wine or the meal.

Cirque du Soleil
Why? They never cease to amaze me; I am always amused, bewildered, and in awe of the artistic and physical expression they create. I love listening to their music when I work -keeps me in another plane.

Apple
Why? Because they create the most awesome products like the iMAC, the iTouch, the iPod Shuffle. They've also got great applications like GarageBand and iMovie. I'll post more on these soon, too.

American Airlines Admiral's Club
Why? They keep you comfortable and away from the noise pollution of the terminal concourse. You get free WI-FI access as well as coffee, tea, juice, water, and television. If you've purchased Business Class transatlantic tickets, they give you vouchers for free wine.

Honda
Why? They manufacture great vehicles like the Accord and our ugly baby, the Element. Our posts here and here.

Who or what do you love?