day 36 - mindfulness

"The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it." 

- Thich Nhat Hanh

Mindfulness isn't about clearing my mind. It's about engaging my presence.

Folding these tiny stars from old book pages feels like meditation in motion - slow hands, careful alignment and attention to small details.

The glass tube is like a contemplative vessel, holding those small attentive moments in one quiet, visible form. It whispers to me, be here, notice, take your time.

Today I'm practicing mindfulness by staying with each moment as it is.

Lucky (Puffy) Stars

day 16 - gratitude

"Gratitude turns what we have into enough." 

- Melody Beattie

Gratitude isn't something I summon to put myself in a better mood - it arrives spontaneously when I see what's supporting me - the chair, the roof over my head, my family, the luxury of time and good health. 

I thank my lucky stars for so much in life. 

Even on a "bad" day, tea with a friend or a cuddle with the cat, or a strip of paper twisted around my fingers and tucked into shape can evoke that feeling and transform my perception. 

Today I'm practicing gratitude by noticing and naming what's holding me up.

Lucky Stars, Traditional, Strip Folding

#initforallthelove, children

 

Day 5: Lucky Stars (origin unknown)

Today I’m sending love out to all the kids in my life, past, present and future.

To the children we once were, folding paper airplanes and fortune tellers and intricately “locked” notes to our best friends, to my nephews and students who amaze and amuse me with their creativity and ingenuity, thank you!

To all the Star Souls, Crystal Beings and Rainbow Children yet to come, I look forward to your magical presence in the world!

diy friday - lucky star wishing wand

There's a legend in Japan that if you fold one thousand origami cranes your wish will be granted.  That noble endeavor can take the average folder more than 60 hours!

Here's a short cut:  Fold a "fairy" tiny lucky star wishing wand and say the magic words! 

What you need:

- A strip of paper 1/2 inch x 11 inches.
- A cocktail stick or toothpick.
- An embroidery needle.
- Nail polish or paint.

- Ribbon and glue (optional).

What to do:

1) Fold a lucky star using these photos and instructions or this video on YouTube, or this one, or this one.

2) Paint the stick.  Let it dry.

3) Carefully poke a hole between two arms of the star.

4) Tie ribbons around the stick.

5) Optional - Put glue on the sharp end.

6) Insert the stick into the hole up to the upper arm of the star (don't poke it all the way through).

Make a wish!