Minimalism and the Barren Tree

As many of you know I have begun a never ending journey to becoming a minimalist, at least as best as I can. I have found myself beginning to take note of things around me more since I have started this. Just the other day, I was looking out my bedroom window and saw that one of my backyard trees was on its last leaf. It got me thinking. Is this tree with its one leaf worth any less than its neighboring tree with many? Not at all. The same concept applies to possessions. Our society is raised to beleive more is better, bigger is better....better is just...well...better. That is not always true. Less is still beautiful perhaps even more so because you notice what you have and respect it more.

This tree was symbolic to me and a realization hit that I too don't need to feel awkward or strange or any less beautiful if I choose the path of less. Like that tree your individuality will shine through and people will take notice of YOU and not your "stuff". Isn't that what we all want in the end? to be remembered?

Thanks for reading and I love to hear your comments:)

On the Road to Minimalism

As many of you may know, I am attempting to be on the road to minimalism. It is not always an easy road but I have found it to be very calming in the end. My family and I have already donated over 10 boxes/bags of items in the past few weeks. I have sorted out collectibles to sell ( even though they are loved, they are no longer who I am) and let them go. While it has been time consuming and frustrating, I have found that seeing it go one by one as well as making extra cash to pay off school loans, has made it worth while.

Are YOU looking to be a minimalist? If so what do you need to break away from most? Why is it hard for you to do so?

Dustin Lance Black's 8 the play

I was given the fortunate opportunity to be a part of an extraordinary event: a witness to 8. What is 8 you ask? It is a play/reading detailing the trial that took place in California regarding Proposition 8. A few of the actors included in the play were: John Lithgow, Morgan Freeman Rob Reiner, Matt Bomer, Cheyanne Jackson, Christine Lahti, Ellen Barken, Rory O'Malley, just to name a few.

The reading itself was not very long. The stars came onto the stage taking their seats in director chairs with script books. The atmosphere was weighed with various emotions from anger, sadness to moments of elation at the actors portrayls of their real life counterparts. My favorite part was when Christine Lahti gave her speech to her twin boys about self worth, acceptance, and love. She brought forth her character's essence of a mother who would do anything for her children and continually back them in their life choices.
The play ended with a standing ovation and an invitation for the real life plantiffs to come to the stage. It was a moving night.

After the play, I had a chance to get some autographs from the stars of the show as well as meet Matt Bomer once again. By now I suppose you can say we are well acquainted with each other and after exchanging pleasantries, I had asked him if he would be able to personalize a Happy Birthday autograph for my son Mike (@MiniNealCaffrey on twitter) whose birthday was next month. Gracious as always, he did. I told him that Mike really looks up to him as a role model and I couldn't think of a better one at that. He seemed genuinely touched by my words and thanked me saying it meant a lot to him. Him being a role model to Mike means a lot to me.

With that being said, I thought I had a pretty good concept on what equality meant in the world. After seeing this....I realized my eyes had never truly been open. I think that many of us not privy to the knowledge or living outside of the intimate community of LGBT don't know all the facts. I never knew the difference between a civil union and marriage until I began to do research. So much of the knowledge we receive seeps into us from sources which are not always reliable. The other side of the story can be blocked out till we never knew it existed at all.

To me, that was what Dustin Lance Black's play was about. NOT losing the message. NOT forgetting that some truths might never be known if we don't dig a little deeper at times to find them. NOT ever giving up.

Keep up the fight, for everyone. For more info, please visit the following:

American Federation for Equal Rights

Human Rights Campaign

Broadway Impact


and be sure to follow

Dustin Lance Black

Rory O'Malley ( Broadway Impact)

Best White Collar Set Visit Yet with My Son!

I finally had gotten an opportunity to take at least one of my boys to New York to see the attractions, visit the stores, and of course see the cast of WHITE COLLAR!
My 9 year old, Mike was very eager to go and a bit nervous so I was told. He loves the show and characters and is a huge fan of Matt Bomer and wanted to dress like Neal Caffrey for our trip. Since It was suppose to be around 90 degrees that day, we settled on just a tie and fedora. :)

We started our journey heading toward the direction we had read at On Location Vactions where the crew would be filming. Our first surprise of the day was running into Sharif Atkins who plays FBI Agent Clinton Jones on the show. He was dressed and looking very handsome in his military garb practicing for a scene. I did not want to disturb him and asked a crew member nearby if Matt and Tim were around
and was told they were on the other side of the building we were at.

Meanwhile, while I was talking, Mike had shyly waved to Sharif who waved back and called him over. While I had had the pleasure of watching Sharif in action before, I never had the honor of meeting with him. We chatted for a bit and he talked to Mike for some time making Mike feel like he was a very important person:) As we went to get a pic, a New Yorker walking by apparently didn't like my Phillies shirt and yelled "Go back to Philly!"

I ignored it, but Sharif being the gentleman he was yelled back to protect my honor "Mind your manners, sir!"

I felt pretty special too:)

Afterward we were on our way. Around the bend, there was a lot going on. I took Mike right to the heart of it and we waited. Soon after , Matt arrived. We waited until he was done talking and I nudged Mike to go say hi. Michael, who never stops talking mind you, was speechless. I went with him and when Matt saw us, I knew he recognized me. He asked how I was doing and gave me a hug. (Talk about feeling special again.)

I introduced him to Mike. Matt looked his hat and the two began discussing school and so forth. I snagged a crew member and asked him if he would be able to take a pic of us. Matt immediately got down to Mike's level. Mike was so happy and a bit in shock! That pic is now one of my faves of the day!

While Matt got ready to work, who strode by but Tim DeKay! He did a fake shock look when he saw us and I knew he recognized me too and maybe even Mike from the pic I showed him before. We exchanged pleasantries as well and he talked to Mike too. We got a few shots with Tim too before he had to run off. Both of the fellows signed autos and really nice ones for Mike wishing him luck in the 4th grade and thanks for watching ( Matt) and to watch out young Neal Caffrey-from his friend Tim.

We got to watch filming for a bit from across the street. I got a smiles and a wink from Tim from across the way ( still feeling special here) and a shout out to a waving Mike from Sharif who called over across the street"Did you get to meet Matt and Tim yet?" We yelled back yes and thanks!


All I can say is : WOW

I have included a few pics but I wasn't in the best location to get really good ones. Alos caught a glimpse of Andrew McCarthy.

Still I hope you all enjoyed this tale of a day with Mike. Afterward of course, Mike and I went to Toys R Us, M & M World and the Hershey store. Still, he did not stop talking about Jones, Neal and Peter the rest of the day. On our way leaving the set a few blocks down, we saw the crew member we ran into earlier. She remembered us and asked if we got to see them. I said yes and thanks cause she made Mike's whole day!


I have been told repeatedly how lucky and blessed I am to have been able to see the cast as often as I have been. I realize that and am grateful beyond measure. As much as I enjoy going to the set, I enjoy sharing the adventures with all of you. I hope you do as well. I will continually promote not only one of the best shows on television, but the best cast and crew I have had the honor of meeting.

I also want to take this time to ask if you can even if it is a dollar, help make a child smile with Sharif Atkins and a chance to meet this officer and a gentleman in person by helping Operation Smile!

It ends soon so act fast!






























mpse of guest director Andrew

White Collar set visit May 27, 2011 with Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Willie Garson, and Sharif Atkins!

Wow! that was a lot to type and might I say a lot of stars to view as well. Another incredible set visit this past Friday while filming episode 3x08. Lots of familiar faces and many new ones. The PAs worked as diligent as ever facing a tough New York crowd. The guys braved the heat. It had to be close to 90 degrees ( as noted by the orange and tan umbrellas whose sole purpose was to protect the actors and their make-up ) .

I got a few moments to chat with Tim, Matt when I first got there. I snuck across the street, tapped Tim on the shoulder and asked him if he remembered me ( I know , bold, but he did the last time I saw him.) His face held the recognition, but he didn't remember the name at first. Once I said it, I think he did though. Matt and I shook hands as well. I asked where the best place to wait would be out of the way and Matt mentioned across the street, so I did. I snapped a few shots ( I was a lot further away than last time, but thank goodness for zoom!)

After that first part ended ( filming was outside the whole day), I followed them to the next location. I found it interesting how each visit brought about more and more people who were aware of the show as opposed to the last visits. There was a small mob watching the filming with their camera phones, calling loved ones exclaiming "Yeah I see Matt Bomer!" Nice to hear so whatever marketing is doing, keep it up!

Matt and Tim were as gracious as always, taking time to stop and chat with fans between sets and take pictures. poor fellows literally had to eat and run ( I got the opportunity to hang out literally 3 feet away from them as the day went on.) half eaten lunches and well deserved texting breaks were fleeting before the shot had to continue or a fan asked for a photo op.

I can see why they are tired by the end of the day. It made me tired just looking at them.

While I got to observe more, this set, I didn't get to take any pictures which was probably for the best. The crew was filming smack dead in the center of Park avenue at lunchtime! Creative and busy.

The third location I moved with them wasn't too far off. Low and behold I see Willie Garson scoot on by ( yes I said scoot as in a black and chrome scooter and not the electric kind:) So cool. I was pretty close to the fellows and watched them rehearse the next scene. I checked my watch at that point and while I could have stayed the whole day RL was intervening. I saw my moment again to talk to Matt and Willie ( and get Willie's auto which I was missing). They were very accommodating considering Matt was having his make-up touched and hair done . We chatted a bit about my skins and he said he liked them ( I had sent them one since they had signed a charity one for me which will be auctioned off soon! YAY!)

Willie signed my pic and I got a photo with Matt and Willie ( unfortunately Tim had already wrapped for the day. ) It was an entertaining four hours and hope I can entertain you all again from the set in the future. Thanks and enjoy!

Check out young filmmakers David Sorensen and Matthew Kropp-Gutters!

Another pair of amazing talent, David Sorensen ( also a PA in the office for White Collar) and Matthew Kropp put together a film for their own production company Brain Tree Productions.

This film chronicles the adventures of a 14 year old boy and a 20 something girl who come across a video tape where they witness brutal slayings. They go off in attempts to solve the murders on their own.

I suggest you go check it out . Support the next generation of filmmakers. Gutters can be purchased at Amazon.

Leave them a comment and let them know what a great job they are doing!

Artist Clarice Fox-Hughs Storybook Woods and fabric journal

Clarice recently created a piece based on the piece Simplicity as seen in The Elemental Journal . here are some photos from her blog post. For more info go to Storybook Woods and let her know what a great job she did! Thanks Clarice!

Another wonderful trip to the White Collar set: this time with Matt Bomer and Tim DeKay!

Please do not post these pictures elsewhere. Thank you.

I was fortunate enough to visit the White Collar set again this past Thursday. It turned out to be another beautiful day ( at least while they were shooting outside!). The streets were full of hustle and bustle as well as some rather unhappy New Yorkers. I must note however that the crew worked very hard and dealt with the situations with style and grace proving that they are one of the best crew around!

My first surprise of the day was when I was hanging out with my buddy James Morrison ( talented film maker to those who saw the short I posted a few days ago:) when who comes right up to me but Tim DeKay. He looked me in the eye, hand outstretched (which I accepted of course) and said "Hi Tammy, how are you?" As I mentioned before in a previous post that I had met Tim about two weeks ago. My surprise that he remembered my name quickly passed as I asked how he was as well. Pleasant conversation followed before filming had to resume. Tim was his usual playful self keeping onlookers entertained.

I got an opportunity to see Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Hillarie Burton , Sharif Atkins, and guest star Hutch Dano from Disney's Zeke and Luther fame, film.

We stayed outside for a few hours and I took a lot of photos. Most of them were from across the street. Tim DeKay invited us in the building to watch them film rehearsals. It was an interesting process.

Yes, I was quite close to Bomer a few times for those of you wondering, but I didn't want to interrupt the filming obviously so I waited my turn. After the rehearsals were completed, James introduced us. Matt was utterly charming and sweet. He autographed my photo I had brought with me. James was telling him about the skin I had designed for the Much Love Charity auction ( which I had brought the skin that day and when it gets signed James will send me pics to post to everyone before it goes up on ebay:)

Matt posed for a picture. After it was taken, he seemed concerned with the lighting and if it would come out OK so he offered to take another. So sweet! I didn't get to talk to him much since I had to leave and they had to get back to work. I was extremely fortunate to see these wonderful men in person and hope I will again someday.

Psst. Does it mean I have an in now that Tim knows me by name? LOL


The above pictures feature: Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Hutch Dano, Joe Henderson

Beautiful artwork from Pat Shoop

Pat had sent me some images of wonderful art she created from using the projects in The Elemental Journal. I just had to share them all with you:)

Take a look and enjoy! Make sure to leave a comment for Pat.

If anyone else has any projects they have completed from the book, feel free to send me the images and I will post them here!

Film Makers to Watch: James Morrison and Stay True Darling

STAY TRUE DARLING from James Morrison on Vimeo.

I have recently met and become friends with a very talented film maker: James Morrison. I had the privilege to view his latest piece titled Stay True Darling. The story focuses on a young woman named Jane Desmond. She is searching to become the latest and greatest on the Hollywood scene fluctuating between working at a diner and auditioning for various parts.

Erin Cunningham, the star of the show, gave an amazing performance and the writing and directing keeps the viewer heavily involved in the characters and on the edge waiting to see if Jane will ever be granted her heart's desire.

I won't give the ending away, but I recommend watching the movie above and the link below to view all the accolades and sightings this film has been given. www.staytruedarling.com

So go ahead, watch, sigh, enjoy and know that no matter where your road may lead, always stay true.

White Collar set visit -best birthday ever!

Well Friday was my birthday and what a birthday it was. First I had the opportunity to visit the White Collar set and hang out with crew. Jim Campolongo, an amazing White Collar writer was gracious enough to put up with my insanity and spent a better part of the day speaking with both myself and my husband. The segments of the episode I was able to witness hold intrigue, mystery, adventure and romance. Yes, all that in the bits I was able to see. Can't wait to view it in its entirety:)

James Morrison, a brilliant up and coming short film maker ( whom I will be blogging about in a few days so stay tuned!) introduced me to many members of the crew as well as allowed me to listen in to the filming through my own headset. I stayed most of the time across the street but was able to take as many shots as I wanted as well as a short video clip. Then much to my absolute pleasure, James introduced me to Tim DeKay ( Peter Burke) who was filming that day with the ever lovely Tiffani Theissen. Mr. DeKay was one of the nicest men I have ever had the opportunity to meet. He took the time to speak with me and after James told him I was the one who would be sending a skin I had put together for a charity for them to autograph ( more on that later too!), he knew who I was. He asked me if I wanted him to sign it now but I hadn't had it on my person at that time.

We stood for a bit between scenes discussing Twitter and Facebook ( which Tim is guesting this week on Jeff Eastin's account so check him out!). When he heard it was my birthday, he gave me a kiss on the cheek. He autographed my photo and I got a pic with him. I can only say my birthday was complete:) I hope to have the opportunity to meet him again and the others someday soon.

Young Artist Series Featuring Korbin!

A Facebook friend of mine Tracy and I were discussing the young artist series I have started and she informed me of her son's amazing talent of drawing magna. So I would like to present Korbin, age 15 in 8th grade! Enjoy and comment if you get a chance!

Q: When did you start drawing?
A: I have been drawing since I was very young but I really started to do it often in about 2nd grade.


Q: How did you get involved with Manga? Any shows or comics inspiration for you?

A: I became interested in Manga when I found an On Demand show by Mark Crilley (a Manga artist) where he teaches you how to draw Manga. My inspiration mostly comes from shows like Bleach, Black Cat, and Code Geass.


Q: Do you prefer black and white drawing or color?
A:I prefer black and white but seeing color in them looks better. I cannot color very well but I have my mom color in my drawings with her Copic markers.


Thanks, Korbin! Do YOU have young artist? Email me if you do. WE are looking for kids age 18 and younger.

Young Artist Series#1: featuring my boys Michael and Jake!

Michael

Jake

Jake


Michael

Jake

Michael

I have decided to start a new blog series featuring the talents of children who often get overlooked in the adult world. First of all I must showcase my own two boys who are extremely creative ( gee wonder where they get that from! LOL)

Michael ( age 9) and Jake ( age 6) both love to draw and paint/mixed media work. Here are some questions I asked them:


Q: What is your favorite type of art?

Michael: I like drawing with pen . I love horror art!

Jake: I like using pencil cause if I make a mistake I can erase it. I like scary art too.

Q: Do you want to keep creating art when you are older?

Michael: I do.

Jake: Me too.


So proud of them!

Do YOU have a young artist? If so contact me . Looking to showcase artists,photographers, writers, musicians.

Young Artist Series featuring: Kenzi Alizabeth!

I have just recently discovered that one of my twitter friends ( and White Collar fan too!) is an amazing 13 year old photographer with a brilliant eye! We were discussing photography and I decided that I had to share her work with you.


Q: How old were you when you started in photography?

A: I was 8 when I started out in photography & I got really interested in it when I was 11. I'm 13 now.


Q: What type of photography do you like the best and why?

A: I love nature because it's really beautiful to get pictures of different animals or flowers. I also enjoy portraits because they show the beauty of every person.

Q. Do you prefer dark room or digital and why?

A: I prefer digital because it's a lot easy for me that way.

Q. Any other types of art interest you?

A: Hmm..I enjoy painting with acrylics, but I haven't done that in a long time. Creative writing is really fun too!

This is just a small sampling of her amazing work. Check out her website for more.