Little Wings

Penelope's weaving

2012-02-29T11:23:00.000Z

Weaving bug continues... And I must say that I am enjoying it more and more. Can't wait to start the next one!

"Healing" Tapestry © Corina Duyn '12
12 x 14 cm

"Healing" took me about 5 weeks to weave. The first part, the blanket, went fast enough, but then I just wasn't happy with the rest of it. I wove part of the background, the hair, and started the face. Felt that the blanket should be higher up on the left... the shoulder needed to be bigger, the hair, for which I had used rope was to ridged...

So, I took all that out again.

A brave step, as I was worried that I accidentally cut the warp threads, (the long ones on which you weave). I thought that at this rate, I never get to finish this tapestry as I was taking out more than I was adding!

My ever knowledgeable weaving teacher pointed out that Penolope took out her weaving every night so she could wait for her husband... As I had no idea who Penelop was, she enlightened me: "Penelope wife of Odiseus of the Greek Iliad Mythology. When Odiseous left for his travels another man came to the Island where Penelope lived. He said he would marry her when her weaving was finished... (to make a long story short)... she unwove most of what she did during the day in that way advancing slowly. Odiseus came back and reclaimed his wife and land. The moral of the story being that unweaving bring good things: a better tapestry to begin with!

(For more about Penolope see here )

So I began to weave again, and changed the background. For the hair I tried about 4 different yarns, wool, doll's hair until I finally felt that it was right. Of course Penelope's story stayed on my mind. Wondering what goodness will come my way when I finally finished the tapestry. A lovely Princess?
:-)

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks &

Lots of loveCorina

Quintuplets

2012-02-27T16:23:00.000Z

My latest "babies"

Quintuplets in this case!

These 5 Conepuppets are so new that they don't even have names yet!

If you happen to fall in love with one of them,

and would like to be it's "parent",

please email me and I will reserve her/him for you

(please mention the puppet's position in the group photo)

Three of these are going to Ardmore Pottery and Gallery in the next few days.

.... so be quick, if you'd like to have first choice!

You can also purchase the puppet here

Then again, maybe you'd just like to look at them here!

A family photoalbum!

For their older sisters see: here

for a "life action", see here

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of loveCorina

Letterpressed Story

2012-02-12T10:04:00.001Z

Anastasia is an amazing young woman I met a long time ago. She stayed in my mind ever since.

See her video here (the original was recently removed from youtube)

In 2004 I was invited to give a talk in Waterford Regional Hospital as part of the Healing Arts Trust Lunchtime talks. The video Fit to Fly ( see here part 1 & part 2 ) was shown and I answered questions about my creative journey with M.E. to date. Anastasia and her mother were in the room. Anastasia was only a teenager when diagnosed with M.E. herself.
She struck me as a very capable, creative young girl. M.E. was not going to get the better of her!

We have been in touch ever since.
Anastasia wrote about her story with M.E. She wrote about the stranger in her life. I still have copies of her early writing. An amazing piece of work.
The idea was hatched to do a book together. Her story and mine, back to back. This didn't happen- yet! I published Hatched in the meantime, and Anastasia was still working on devising the right way to publish her own story.

I am SO PROUD to hear that she has now done just that.

She is putting each of the letters of her story in the letterpress and prints each page separately. A work of art. A powerful story.

If you can at all, please support this amazing work. This amazing young woman.
See the video to see her at work, read more about "Dear Stranger" or help her to raise the funds to continue, please see here

Well done Anastasia and I will be saving up for my own copy of Dear Stranger!

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of loveCorina

No wood is safe...

2012-02-08T11:42:00.000Z

No wood is safe anymore

Every piece that comes my way

is being examined.

"Who lives in it?"

"What is the story it want to tell me?"

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?Many thanks & Lots of loveCorina

9990 page views

2012-02-07T19:16:00.002Z

I just spottted that there have been 9,990 page views of my Little Wings Blog.

Please let me know if you are the person who will clock up the 10.000!

There might be a little surprise in store!

X Corina

....now 10.023 so who was it that viewed my blog and became the 10.000 viewer?

Thank you all for your support!!

UPdate:
Visitor Identified!
Pressie (book) in the post.

Up to the 15.000!
XX

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of loveCorina

Metamorphosis

2012-01-30T13:16:00.000Z

In general I like what I create as I thoroughly enjoy the process of making. I am always curious to how a sculpture, a drawing, weaving, a book will turn out.

Sometimes I am overwhelmed by what I am presented with.

"Metamorphosis"
© Corina Duyn '12

When the building of my studio became a reality, I had to make some changes in my garden to accommodate the entrance to the studio. One of the plants I had to remove was a Buddleia shrub- a Butterfly Bush.

The root that was exposed was so beautiful that I hid it in my greenhouse out of fear it might be thrown out during a clean up of my garden. The root reached out a great distance.

A few weeks ago I used it as a base for a sculpture. I "attached" the root to piece of bark I found in my studio (obviously saved from being burned in the stove, but had forgotten about it!)

About two weeks ago I attended an introduction workshop about Art Therapy, with the idea that this would be the first step towards finally fulfilling my dream to become an Art Therapist- a route I had chosen just before becoming ill over 13 years ago. The session was very interesting but it took more energy than I had, I had been standing too long and was in severe pain for days afterwards. I also realised that I had more healing to do of my own...

My dream squashed, but it also brought clarity, I know what I need to do.

The following morning I was feeling pretty awful, but as I thought about the communication with a friend about using our creative energy for our own healing, I decided to go into the studio. The piece that 'screamed' for my attention was the root sculpture.

I had great difficulty getting the face to work, to reveal itself to me out of the clay. My co-ordination was compromised. But I persevered... Suddenly she was there.

Detail "Metamorphosis"
© Corina Duyn '12

That afternoon and over the next few days I worked on her skirt, hair and shirt and hands. I had dyed (in tea) some rope which I had split into single 'threads' to use as a skirt. The shirt is lace which I glued on with the fabric hardener. The hair is a clump of moss I had found on a wall a few days ago. It had fallen of an old roof in a perfect bubble.

Lying on the couch, this sculpture in the making, standing on the mantle piece to dry, I was overwhelmed but it. I stared at it for ages, in silence. Sometimes my work really gets me, this one did.

I considered if I would paint her eyes, but I decided that she should be able to look out into the world.

She is rooted and grounded. She metamorphosed from being in safe grounds into it's own little person. "Solid, but light and free", as a friend commented. "With roots like that she can grow."

The fact that the root was from a "Butterfly Bush" makes it all the more poignant... to me anyway!

I am honoured to have made her acquaintance.

Aer Arann... again

2012-01-27T12:10:00.001Z

Further to my post about winning the Equality Tribunal Case against Aer Arann, it came to my attention that they did not review their Ground Operation Manual as ordered by the Tribunal back in June 2011.

The Tribunal ordered that Aer Arann “conduct a review of its policies and procedures ( to include their terms and conditions of carriage and their Ground Operations Manual) to ensure that they are in compliance with [ the Equal Status Acts 2000 – 2008].

By not following up on the findings, Aer Arann tries to make a mockery out of the Tribunal's findings.

As it stands, I could end up with the exact same problem if I ever were to travel with Aer Arann again...

It looks like I'm not done with them yet.

My great solicitor has written to their solicitors and the Equality Tribunal.

Annoyed.

But fighting fit!

Magic Happens

2012-01-25T15:05:00.001Z

A few weeks ago, I introduced you to "Little Leek" an Artist Doll inspired by, and is sitting on, a Leek Flower Head from my garden.

While the leeks were growing in my garden, turning into pure magic, I took many, many photographs. The love for my garden, my love for nature, my interest in sculpting Artist Dolls and making books, all came together this latest creative adventure:

My second Handmade Artist Book: Magic Happens

The book is about 12x17 cm, and almost 3cm think (in fairness, most of this comprises of the hard fabric covered cover). There are 13 full page photographs and the 13 pages with a few words to bring you on a magical journey. See blow for a few sample pages, but I won't reveal all, otherwise there is no magic anymore!

If you happen to be interested in your own copy, I've decided to create a signed limited edition again (50), like Flying on Little Wings. The books will be made to order and all, or most, will have a different fabric used for the cover, as I am using remnants of upholstery, and rich curtain fabrics.

€25, See my Website shop

I certainly enjoyed the making of it!

X Corina

cover of Magic Happens
Handmade book © Corina Duyn

Title page of Magic Happens
Handmade book © Corina Duyn

Sample page of Magic Happens
Handmade book © Corina Duyn

Sample page of Magic Happens

Handmade book © Corina Duyn

Suddenly it's done!

2012-01-21T10:30:00.001Z

After a month of weaving, suddenly my "Poppy" is done!

"Poppy" weaving
12x15cm (plus fringes)

It doesn't look exactly like the photo I worked from, but if I don't compare, I am rather happy with my first ever Real Weaving Project. An Artistic interpretation! :-)

Building on from the bits that I learned during the weaving classes, (See here to read the previous post about weaving) this Poppy is a complete exploration of materials, texture, colours, shape...

I became aware that that is exactly what I like to do in any creative project. Learn some of the basics about the material I'm about to work with and then explore!

Fun!

However, there is a level of impatience when I am working on something new, on something that is not clear from the outset what it will look like.

The very wise weaving teacher suggested: "Enjoy the impatience. It is an energy you can change into curiosity."

This might sound silly, but I even love the feel of the tapestry, there is something sensual about touching the woven yarn.

...the mess to tidy up on the back!

Since completing the Poppy, I have been working on a handmade book about the Little Leek Artist Doll and the Amazing Leek Flowers, and a wood-clay sculpture Metamorphosis. More about this soon!

A thought ...

2012-01-04T11:12:00.004Z

Acceptance

is an easier

place to be

than in the state

of hope

(of recovery)

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?
Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

Three highlights of 2011

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000Z

If I were to narrow down the highlights of 2011 to three events/experiences, they would be

The building of my Studio "The Garden Room"! (See Studio for the building of it, including the very funny video. Or see here for more about this amazing fortune.)

Learning to Weave at college. (See Weaving post)

Winning an Equality Tribunal case to defend my rights as a disabled person to travel. (See here for the story that I am finally allowed to tell!)

My dear friends, I would like to wish you a great year ahead

in which all your dreams come true.

And ... I'd love to hear/read about your three highlights?
(preferably here on the blog... comment box below)

XX Corina

Winning an Equality Tribunal case ...

2011-12-27T10:59:00.001Z

... and all that went before it.

In 2009 I was working on a story which later became the first book in the Cirrus Chronicles *series. (*= links at bottom of post)
As part of this writing I had planned a trip to the Edinburgh Book Festival in August of that year. I was to stay with friends who had moved from Lismore to Edinburgh the previous year.

I had booked a workshop with children's author Linda Strachan *, who also published books on how to write for children. During the festival I had also planned to meet with publishers and other writers to make my book the best it could be, to maybe even find a publisher for it.

A very exciting time!

I had printed out an illustrated draft and had it hand bound to bring along.

As I travel with a mobility scooter I am obliged to inform the airline, in this case Aer Arann, about my mobility needs and the mobility aid I would be travelling with. I did this two weeks prior to travelling. I explained that I had a mobility scooter with an airline approved battery and read out the details: Wet-non-spillable battery.

On the 26 August I was dropped off at the airport and Mariela left after I had checked in. I had brought a copy of the scooter's battery's details, but the young woman who checked me in didn't require to see it. My scooter, as is usually the case, was not checked in as such. I was told this would be done at the boarding gate.

I made my way to the gate and had about an hour before travelling.

About an half hour before departure I heard my name being announced and made my way back to the security personnel. There were questions about the safety of the scooter battery.

I showed the leaflet about the battery and lifted the battery out of the scooter ( the battery is in a sealed box and does not require any disconnecting of wires). The leaflet with safety information was scanned and forwarded to the headquarters of Aer Arann.

I remember talking with one of the security men about how this scooter has enabled me to travel on my own, even in other countries (I had been to Holland with Air Lingus on several occasions, bringing the scooter with me). The fact that I didn't need a 'pusher' anymore for my wheelchair, made a huge difference in my life, a life I prefer to live as independently as possible.

I made my way back to the departure gate, sure all was well.

Usually I am one of the first to board, as the staff needs to put my scooter into the hold. This time however, all other passengers started to board.

I held out my boarding pass when the staff came my way (even writing this gets my heart beating fast...). Instead of taking the boarding pass I was told that I was not allowed onto the plane. The battery was deemed dangerous.

I panicked.

I asked to speak to Aer Arann personnel to discuss this. The battery was airline approved. I had booked it in two weeks prior and had been at the airport for an hour...

I was told there was nobody around. Servisair does the handling for Aer Arann, in Cork Airport.

I asked to be taken on board and leave my scooter behind in Cork to be picked up by Mariela. (I had read in the Festival brochure that there were courtesy wheelchairs available, and figured that if the organisers heard my story they would lend me one)

No, you are not going on that plane, your suitcase has been taken off.

I felt like a criminal to be honest. All this was said in front of 'fellow' passengers boarding the plane. "Maybe they're glad I am not on that plane as I am a security risk" is what I thought.

I cried.

I cried seeing my small purple suitcase standing on the tarmac beside the plane.

I was not allowed on the plane, with or without my scooter. I felt it was about me not just my scooter.

I see this as the most horrendous, humiliating, painful experience of living with a disability so far. I felt that my rights to travel were taken away and that this whole episode was very badly handled.

The plane left for Edinburgh.

I waited to be picked up and was very distressed.
I was given the option to come back the following day, with my wheelchair, but I was too distraught, complete bereft of any energy and would have missed the most important workshop in any case.

Home, after an 'angry' rest, I decided to write about my experiences, and looked up the airlines policy on disabled travellers etc. Writing, as you might know, is my way to deal with challenges.
On advise from the friends I was to stay with in Edinburgh, I forwarded my writing to two papers. The Irish Times and the Irish Examiner. Both contacted me immediately. The articles were published on the 28 August 2009. The Irish Times article was published on page 2 and was taken up but papers as far as the US: The Irish Immigrant.
Of course Aer Arann wasn't that pleased about this exposure. They claimed that my scooter battery was a danger to be brought on board an airplane and safety (understandably) is their main objective.
All I wanted was an appology in Writing...

I talked with the Equality Authority and with a recommended solicitor, Joe Durkan in Dublin. After a lot of deliberation, in which I had to take into account the amount of energy I had to put into this case, if I were to bring it to court, I decided to go witht he services of Joe Durkan.

(I remember being in Dublin to meet the Equality Authority and talked with a taxi driver. When he asked why I was in Dublin he remembered the newspaper article read out on the radio, months previous. Also was approached by a passer by outsede Stephen's Green about my scooter. "Was that you in the paper a few months ago?

The case was lodged against Aer Arann and of course they denied all the issues that were raised. I felt I was made out to be a liar, who knew all along I couldn't bring my scooter on board and that in a way, I did it 'for the money.....' This made me so angry. Do they have any idea how much planning one has to go through to be able to travel. Having to use a mobility aid is not a choice. It is a necessity. One does not use it to get money from an airline...
Why would I give the wrong details about my battery...
I don't want to bore you with the detials, but there were a lot of arguments about dry- versus wet cell batteries. (If you like to know more about this I will tell you.) In short, the only true dry cell batteries are those in your watch, or alarm clock. Wet batteries are the ones in your car, the ones that need topping up at times. These are also used in some more advanced electric wheelchairs. The Wet-non-spillable, as in my scooter, is regarded as dry. (By most airlines!)

It took until December 2010 to get a date for the Equality Tribunal hearing. This was later posponed as "3 of the 5 witnesses were unable to attend' or so we were told.
My heart sank. So many witnesses. I was ready to give up the case, not because I had given up on my conviction that I was right, but the stress was too much to bare. My energy is precious.
It started to feel like to David versus Golliath story...

A new date was set for January 2011.
The case was heard in private in a hotel in Waterford. My friend Phyllis insisted on staying with me ( and was granted this privelge) during the hearing and I am for ever grateful. The room we were in was the Lismore Suite. I felt strong and at home (Lismore is the town where I live).

The hearing took most of the day. Thank goodness they talked to me first, when I was still somewhat 'allert'.
My barrestor Siobhan Phelen interviewed me and I was later cross examined by the Aer Arann team.
I stuck to my story and was grateful to have really reseached the issue, and had a good understanding of the case and a good understanding with solicitor and barristor.

To relay the whole day would take too long, but you can read the Equality Officer Orlaith Mannion's report here: Full case report Equality Tribunal
Overlall I was exhausted, but pleased with my 'performance'. I knew my story. I felt my story. I was treated badly on the day of my planned flight, and I wanted an appology. In writing

Then there is the waiting to hear of I was succesful in my case. Did the Officer see through the 'waffle' that went on at certain points. For example, I had made an enquiry with Aer Lingus, who now flies to Edinburgh, using an Aer Arann plane, if I can take my scooter on board. The battery details were requested and I was given the go ahead to book a flight and bring my scooter on board. Aer Arann's argument had been all along that their type of plane could not facilitate to safely story my scooter on board. Yet other ailines using the same type of plane can bring a wet-non- spillalbe battery on board....

In July 2011 I was told that I had won the case! but that Aer Arann still had 45 days to decide if they were to appeal the case.
The Irish Times * journalist whom had initially written about this case in 2009, published another article about my success. But as I still had a possible appeal hanging over me, I wasn't at liberty to tell my story.
Now that time has passed. Aer Arann has not appealed the case. I was awarded €3000 (just over half of the maximum allowed, on the grounds that I had been discriminated on the grounds of disabilty.
This money was a welcome bonus to help me fund my other big event of this year. The buidling of my studio.

I am grateful to all of you whom were aware of this case but didn't make it public when it was too sensitvie to do so. For all the support I received to stay with my story and to fight the fight to allow a person with a diasabilty to travel like anyone else. For all the support I recieved when the news came out that the case was won. For the Editor of Journal.ie *to invite me to write about living with a disabilty in modern day Ireland.
For solicitor Joe Durkan and barristor Siobhan Phelen for not charging me for their time.

A big thank you to all of you! I could not have done this without you.

And now let's hope that Aer Arann will fulfill the order from the Tribunal Officer: 5.3 I further order that the respondent conduct a review of its policies and procedures (to include their terms and conditions of carriage and their Ground Operations manual) to ensure that they are in compliance with these Acts within six months of this decision.

I still would be happier IF I had made it to the Edinburgh Festival in 2009, but as that was not the case, I am glad that I stood up for my rights and that of people with a disabilty.

Thank you again.

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day, if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?
Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

Links to some items in this story:

The book I was writing in 2009 Cirrus Chronicles

Children's author: Linda Strachan

Article in Irish Times 2011 here
Article in Journal.ie see here

The stuff of dreams

2011-12-24T15:41:00.000Z

One of the highlights of this year was (and is) that I fulfilled a dream dating back about 10 years: Attending college. Albeit only for the one class, every second week, I still see it as a dream come true. I chose Weaving.

First paper weaving

We started off with 'Paper weaving'. We were given colour photocopies of images, told how to cut them into strips how to weave them together. It was quite amazing to see the different works that were created, even if identical pages were used, the end results were totally different. The teacher Pascale explored all our work and showed us the possibilities of design- colour- 'tell a message'- straight lines or strips cut of different width, etc

The Stuff of Dreams' paper weaving

The 'tell a story' option inspired me to create The Stuff of Dreams. I made a collage of my 'dreams' writing-books-art-women-nature. And wrote a piece about my dreams- like attending college and sharing my creativity with others, and woven the two together.

First 'Sampler'

Then it was time to start real weaving. With yarn. On a loom. Made from copper pipe! (see image below). The weaving bug started to sneak it's way into my being....

Second 'Sampler'

For the second sampler, we had to create 'blocks'. And I realized that I am not fond of just plain blocks of colour. I simply had to explore with interweaving colours to see what weaving can do...!

Hooked!

Third 'Sampler'

Then.. angles were the topic.. and curves. This piece is actually shown here sideways. The straight purple line is the bottom of the work. As I had reached what is now the middle of the piece, I was lying on the couch and looked at my weaving sideways, and was surprised to find that there was a face in my weaving.

I could see it, but thought that was because of an overactive creative mind... To my relief, the teacher and fellow students saw it too! I finished the piece with curves, creating a kind of headscarf.

As there would be holiday break coming up, so no class for about 1 month, I set up the loom again to have a project to work on over the Christmas... Yes, I am definately hooked.

After a bit of trial and error I started to work on creating a poppy flower. I had taken some bits of yarn home from the college, but not pink, and my poppy was to be pink. As a solution I wound three strands of sewing thread together to make pink about the same thinkness as the yarn, and as a result became even more hooked on weaving. The possibilities of making subtle differences in colour were very exciting.

Poppy to be

I found myself not just weaving for an hour or so every few nights, but also in the middle of the night (during a sleepless night), and weaving on a Sunday morning at 11.30 am, still in my pajamas...

Weaving addiction had started in earnest!

To my horror I realized that I would not have enough green yarn to 'feed my weaving addiction'

I contacted the teacher (now a creative friend) and asked if she could give some yarn to her colleague, another friend of mine, whom I more than likely would meet over the Christmas period.

The response that I got was "Boy, I didn't know I was going to end up being a dealer :-). Sure we'll get it sorted"

My 'drugs' were delivered with the great smile of a VERY satisfied teacher. She had won over one more soul into the world of weaving!

"Weaving drugs" Lots of it!

* (For more about entering college see here )

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day, if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?
Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

Your Christmas card...

2011-12-22T13:42:00.000Z

Me and my teddy. Aged 2, or 3 I think.
(me that is, the teddy was much older.)

Christmas has made a tentative start for me this morning with the help of the wonderful children of the Liosmor Mochuda National School. I was invited to their carol-service-with-a-difference.
Their imagination worked wonders again. The Christmas story was told in song and play, with a modern twist: The cost for the rent of the stable was discussed, "that's too much, boy" (a very local expression); the shepherds wore tea towels on their heads; Maria explained how to read books and how to use a laptop. Maria and Joseph communicated via skype...
Some of the children were just pleased to be in the limelight, their only focus was their parents in the audience. Some wonderful errors were made: "...And the baby will be called Joseph. Oh, Jesus".
Where else would you find it?

Until today I just couldn't get my head around Christmas, and even now it is still a bit of a blur to be honest. Every year, even the years that I was unable to do much of anything, I made, and posted Christmas cards. And enjoyed doing so. This year I've made none, and posted none.
This doesn't mean that you, my friends and readers, are not on my mind. On the contrary. I know that if it wasn't for your kindness, compassion, love and care I would not be alive today. With your support I managed to stay in the present moment and although there were hard at times, I was glad to be alive. Waking up in the morning was all that mattered.
So what happened this year?
It feels like Christmas has come too soon. It doesn't seem twelve months ago that I created a handmade book, which became Flying on Little Wing; The winter hasn't started; Or maybe I just don't have the energy to put into the Christmas this year, maybe I am finally listening to my body's messages, and not do what is expected in a way.

Possibly the most important thought about this year's Christmas is about the people that have absolutely nothing. Not even a house.
I remember the time that I was at the brink of homelessness. I had one day left in rented accommodation and was pretty much bed/house bound at the time. Bed bound but homeless.
When these thoughts arose, I decided to go with my feelings, and make a donation to Focus Ireland, an Irish charity for the homeless with the special interest in woman and children, instead of spending money on Christmas cards or presents.

So my dear friend, here is an abstract from an email from Focus Ireland, which is Your Christmas card and present.

Thank you for your support over the years. For your friendship, your love and compassion.
From the deepest part of my being, I wish you a peaceful and healthy year ahead.

Lots of love
Corina
and Focus Ireland

Dear Corina Duyn,

On behalf of people who are homeless and all at Focus Ireland thank you so much for your donation in support of our work.

Last year more than 5,000 people used our services; we are there for everyone who needs us, regardless of their status. In Focus Ireland we are committed to helping people out of homelessness and supporting them to move on with their lives. We offer residential programmes to young people leaving state care in Dublin and in many of our housing developments across the country. Our Caretakers Hostel and Crisis Intervention Service were all developed to work with youngsters who are homeless, these projects provide young people with a safe place away from the streets, as well as someone to help them make choices that will move them out of homelessness. Our Aftercare Programmes also work with young people who are in accommodation outside of Focus Ireland, helping them to settle in and providing them with the support and care that most young teenagers take for granted.

This support means we can continue to identify and develop much needed services. We truly could do little, without the support of so many people like you who share our belief that everyone has a right to a place they can call home. Thank you.

Yours sincerely

Fiona Griffin
Fundraising Officer
Donor Care

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day, if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

"Artist Doll"

2011-12-15T16:19:00.000Z

"Little Leek"
© Corina Duyn '11

Remember the leeks in my garden?
The leeks that weren't eaten and were allowed to grow to whatever height they wished?
They grew. They grew some more... People stopped to look at them and commented about this little patch of wonder in my front garden. Overall there were about 20 leeks. See here for more photos
I loved every stage of them, the emerging pod, the shell slowly turning into "paper" and finally showing the flowers they had been hiding.
After heavy wind, and the start of colder weather, I had to cut them back. To my surprise new tiny leeks had started to grow at the base of it's taller parent.

Many of the long stems with flowery heads are now drying in my studio. I used one as a "swing" for a little doll. "Little Leek" She is about 20cm tall (seated on the leek flower), overall the art-piece is about 60cm tall. (she's just been sold, and is going to live near the seaside)
All my work, including this one, is a one-of-a-kind Artist Doll.

"Little Leek"
© Corina Duyn '11

Emerging leek flower
© Corina Duyn '11

See Here for a handmade artist book with follows the story of Little Leek

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day, if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

It's a Puppet's life

2011-12-07T17:21:00.001Z

As promised:

for more about these puppets, please see here

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day, if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

Creative adventures

2011-12-03T10:33:00.001Z

ConePuppet 'Pascale'
© Corina Duyn '11

One of the puppets I used to make in the Fantasy Folk range before becoming ill with M.E., were "ConePuppets".
When friends came to visit my new studio, my very first ConePuppet from about 18 years ago (?) was lying on the table. A bit battered by time, and nibbled on by mice when in storage in a friends garage.
Still the interactive wonder did not stop over time.

I was encouraged to make them again. I did.
I managed to make three puppets to bring to the Tallow Christmas Market last Sunday. I only had one night to acquaint myself with my new "babies" as all three are already sold.

The first to go was the one on the left here. The puppet was handled like a baby. Precious. The cone cradled in one hand, the head slowly pushes up with the stick.

ConePuppets 'Pascale', 'Wendy' and 'Phyllis',
A happy bunch
© Corina Duyn '11

The interaction I saw develop in front of me was one of love, of healing. Watching this filled my heart with awe. With complete appreciation, and gratitude towards the buyer of this puppet, and towards my own creative being.
I was overwhelmed that something that I had created can have such a powerful affect on another person. I felt and feel that I am on the right track.

The day after, I also realised how significant this puppet is for my own healing. It is a kind of "coming out", a re-emerging into the world, but still having the protection of the cone.
My friend Spark made the connection with my egg images. True.
Also the movement of the puppet is significant- I think. I still have the desire to be free in my body, to move freely.

Artist Tamsin Bending made a little video of the puppets. See here

These puppets are also the start of teaching again. Of sharing what I've learned. I've decided to work on a one-to-one basis. See Classes. The"pupil" can choose a project to work on and I'll guide them through the process. I have classes booked and more interest on the way.
What a journey I have already made since the creation of my beloved studio.

If you would like to order a puppet of your own, please go to my shop. I will put your name down for the next one to be made. All are originals, so I can't promise what it will look like in advance... Or give someone a Gift Voucher so that they can choose a doll, book or ...

On another note. It is nearly Christmas and to me Books are a wonderful gift to give and receive. With this in mind I have some offers, see Books. No postage to anywhere in the world; A "stocking-filler" pack of 5 Flying on Little Wings books, and most importantly I will donate 10% of proceeds to Focus Ireland ( a registered charity that works to prevent people becoming, remaining or returning to homelessness.) Offer valid until 24 December '11

Thanking you all for your support over the year(s).
Lots of love
Corina

ps... As always it is lovely to know that you stopped by to read my musing and follow my creative adventures. It would make my day, if you leave a comment... preferably here, on the blog...?

Many thanks & Lots of love
Corina

An inspirational girl

2011-11-22T10:57:00.001Z

Info taken from Emma's website:

Emma McCarron hails from County Monaghan, Ireland. In November 2008, when Emma was 7, she was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma – a rare children’s cancer. Since then, Emma has been attending Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin. She has undergone a gruelling treatment programme, including chemotherapy, surgery, bone marrow transplant and radiotherapy.

Throughout all of this, she has shown great strength, always been in good humour and managed to keep up with school, friends, hobbies and all the normal things girls her age like to do.

Over the last year, Emma became interested in singing. She began to attend singing classes with Monaghan Comhaltas Branch, and joined the Monaghan Community Gospel Choir.

When Emma learnt that some of her relatives wrote songs, played the guitar & sang, she came up with the idea of recording a CD together. So, over the summer, Emma’s great-uncle (Brendan Gallagher) set the wheels in motion, made all the arrangements and the CD was recorded in early August.

When the CD was complete, all involved were very happy with the finished product and decided to sell the CD to raise funds for Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin.

By purchasing Emmas music you can enjoy a wonderful voice and support a worthy cause.

Buy the CD! here

A radio interview listen here (at start of the program after the news and introduction) a wonderful girl. To hear her singing, forward to about 26 minutes into the program.

Well done Emma you are an inspiration! X

Sadness and Gratitude

2011-11-17T12:54:00.001Z

This morning the first email I read was from Kirrily who is the brains (and action) behind the Creative for a Second Project. A project that brought together people from all over the world who live with the condition M.E./CFS. *

She wrote to inform us that one of the participants, Nina Bunin, sadly passed away this week.

I can't believe it. Only a few short months ago Nina wrote to me that she was "Out doing. Virtually recovered from M.E". On her Blog (9th July last) she wrote: "I’ve gotten almost well, and am painting like a fiend, and teaching art."
What a tough blow to be diagnosed with cancer after such a long battle with M.E.

Rest in peace my friend

The thoughts about Nina makes one appreciate and express gratitude to life. The daily challenges seem small.

I am grateful to wake up in the morning.

I am grateful to have friends: 'Real life' Friends, 'Phone' Friends, 'Post' Friends and 'Virtual' Friends, who keep me grounded in life, who make me part of the world we live in.

I am grateful to have a roof above my head, and a place to write and create.

I am grateful to see the world, to hear it, to smell it, to experience it.

Love to you Nina.

Love to all of you.

*About Creative for a Second

Into the Light

2011-11-13T12:55:00.001Z

Work in progress.....

Books by writing friends

2011-11-06T14:39:00.004Z

I am fortunate to have writing friends, I would like to introduce you to some.

Diane Searls published two books recently:

The Goldie Boy (a short one-act play);

and Ozzy the Emu. A wonderful story for children, well actually, for adults too!

'Ozzy the Emu is based on a true experience of the animal keeper author, Diane Searls. Written for children, this story will be an entertaining read for the adult also. Children learn about emu facts through the story and then complete a quiz and puzzles to enhance their learning.'

To order Diane's books please click here

Spark Deeley published her second book "Do you Remember Me? a few months ago. “Do You Remember Me?” is a beautiful new CD/ Book collaboration by Catherine Cunningham and Spark Deeley. Soulful and quirky, it features six original songs and thirteen vibrant ink paintings which complement the song lyrics.

“As an atheist and someone steeped in the tradition of science, I found this beautiful CD/ Book particularly satisfying. The illustrations of Spark Deeley are vividly striking. Complementing the words and music of Catherine Cunningham, they allow for an overall narrative that speaks to the reader in a personal and poetic way. Get your hands on a copy and look, read and listen to what’s inside, I guarantee you will enjoy it” (Kevin Doyle, writer)

To order copy of Spark's books please click here

Alan Murphy published his second poetry book this year: Psychosilly

"Alan Murphy's latest collection of poems explores big themes and ideas about the world. The poems themselves vary in length and style, but they are always rhyming, playing with words and taking literal meanings to surreal lengths. The book is illustrated with bright and playful collages. Children aged 9+ will enjoy reading this on their own, although the poems lend themselves to being read aloud with gusto for the enjoyment of children of all ages."

Children's Books Ireland Recommended Reading Guide 2011

The book can be ordered from Alan

Another book I would like to tell you about is Farewell to Chapelstreet by Paddy Vaughan

My dear friend Paddy passed away last year at the age of 87. Paddy had been working on this book (his second) for a few years, but ailing health preventing him from finishing it. His son Patrick and granddaughter Mary Anne completed the book.
Paddy lived all his life in Chapel Street, Lismore. The stories in the book brings us back to a different pace of live and is full of anecdotes about the people who lived in this street.
The book is (so far) only available locally, but if you're interested, please contact Patrick Vaughan and he will look after your order.

Poems in shop windows

2011-10-09T11:56:00.000+01:00

Our current Mayor of Lismore, Ken Madden, came up with this wonderful idea to invite 10 poets to submit a poem to be displayed in shop windows of our little town of Lismore.

All the poets have a Waterford connection, they are either born in this county, or live here.

The poems appeared 'overnight' to celebrate All Ireland Poetry Day, on the 6th October.

see here for more

Invited poets are:

James Ballantyne, Edward Denniston, Corina Duyn, John Ennis, Áine Uí Fhoghlú, Thomas McCarthy, Liam Murphy, George O’Brien, Mark Roper and Peter Sirr.

The photographs don't quite do justice to the quality of the displays.
My apologies.
But I hope it will give you an idea of what's on offer and that it will inspire you
bring a visit to Lismore!

Please come in and have a look around...

2011-10-06T14:20:00.000+01:00

in my studio -

The Garden Room

now I've started to move in.

Actually

I have moved in.

A few jobs remaining- like installing a sink

but

I can work in it;

sit in it;

relax in it.

What a lucky woman I am!

The Garden Room, but then you already knew that!

An inviting place to enter

All my materials, tool and books are in.
When my craft books went in- I felt I'd completed
my move!

Finally space to finish my bird- a Sea Gull
Ready to fly!
Love the light, the space.

Have used the space so far to work on my weaving projects- paper weaving- more about that later.

Thanks for the visit!

To see how the studio came about, please click Here

Invitation to IWA Exhibition in Dublin

2011-10-02T16:14:00.000+01:00

Last year I entered the IWA (Irish Wheelchair Association) 50th Anniversary Art and Craft Competition with my sculpture Naked Truth. To my great delight it won first prize in the 'craft' category (3D works).
The following was taken from the Summer edition of Spokeout magazine (see page 52)

"In autumn 2010 IWA invited artists to submit entries for the 50th Anniversary Art and Craft Competition. The aim of the competition was to encourage artists with physical and sensory disabilities to showcase their creative talent. The competition received huge interest and many pieces of an extremely high standard were entered into the four regional heats, which took place in late 2010. Pieces from three categories were selected by representatives from Colleges of Art nationally. All entries selected at regional level went through to a national final which took place in Dublin, and was judged by Declan McGonagle of NCAD."

Winners:

GROUP CATEGORY: Drogheda ROC

CRAFT CATEGORY: Corina Duyn, IWA Member `Naked Truth'

FINE ART CATEGORY: Olive Noonan, IWA Limerick

The exhibition of all the regional and final winning entries

will take place in Dublin from the 12th till the 14 October.

You are all kindly invited to attend the opening on
Wednesday 12th October- 12.30pm
official launch by Professor Declan McGonagle, Director of NCAD
Prize giving will follow and light refreshments will be served.

Connaught House, Burlington Road, Dublin 4

Exhibition open to the public till 4 pm Wednesday and
Thursday 13th and Friday 14th from 10.00am - 4.00pm

(further details: IWA)

I would love to have your company on the 12th! And please, do spread the word.

Many thanks

Corina

Moving in!

2011-09-27T11:01:00.001+01:00

For those of you who have followed the progress of my studio (The Garden Room) well...

as the walls are now painted, and I spend a few days varnishing the paneling, and painting of the window frame, I felt it was time to move in. I simply couldn't wait any longer!

Some jobs remain to be done to finish the studio for real, but... I'm in!

The table, which I had planned to go by the window, simply looked 'out of place' there.

Excitedly, I rang Jane to share the idea that had formulated in my brain... a window seat... made from an existing shelf unit. She brought it in; it looked promising, but needed a wider seat.... The following day we used floorboards-offcuts to do just that, and glued a layer of foam on top of it.

On Sunday, I made a few covers. The colourful one is tacked onto the seat and is allowed to get dirty with clay- paint- or whatever else will be used in the studio.

The seat will double as a seat to work from and...

... a seat to relax on. The views of my garden are inspiring and restful.

After I finished making the covers, I rested on my new window seat, listened to music and felt HAPPY.

Robert is not quite sure about this new space.

He's not that great with change...

Inspiring Doll Artists

2011-09-23T12:42:00.001+01:00

Who rules the moon and the stars © Marlaine Verhelst

To continue, what looks like to be a series-in-the-making, I would like to share with you the work by two Doll Artists- Marlaine Verhelst and Hennie Koffrie, both Dutch, who greatly inspire me to continue to create and to be as imaginative as one can be with design and the use of materials.

I have worked with Marlaine on a three occasions, twice during a workshop in France and once in her home studio. I very much admire her work. Marlaine teaches all over the world. If you like to read more, please visit Marlaine Verhelst's blog. or here for a bio

To me, her fantasy figures are beyond imagination.

"Fly like a Bird" © Marlaine Verhelst

Hennie Koffrie is a friend and colleague of Marlaine. They travel together to various Doll Events all over the world. I haven't yet had the pleasure to meet Hennie, but someone/something did in my place (see below).

Hennie's work is wonderful. Looking at her images gives me the freedom to create whatever is in my head- to use whatever materials will come my way; to tell a story. I can't wait to get started.
(Studio nearly ready!)

"Last Mile" © Hennie Koffrie

MEme:

Years ago, when 'travelling' to my bathroom or kitchen was an event in itself, I sent a tiny stuffed penguin out into the world beyond- she became my alter ego. MEme (M.E.- me) travelled by post to many many countries and visited friends and family, but she was also introduced to people I've never met, and places I've never been.

MEme's carers wrote in her diary and took photos of the adventures. When the diaries came back to me, I really DID feel I had been away on a break. They have given me hours and years of comfort, laughter and gratitude.

During the time MEme spend with Marlaine ('02) she was brought along to a Doll Event in Washington. MEme shared a room with Marlaine and Hennie. I have this wonderful photo of MEme getting a kiss from Hennie! When I looked for a web-link to Hennie's work I couldn't stop laughing when I saw MEme in the hands of Hennie!

Hennie with MEme- my alter ergo

I keep meaning to scan the pages of MEme's diaries and put them up on my website- so you can all enjoy the adventures and funny images.... but it is such a big job. Anybody offering their services to do this....?

I can ask, can't I :-)

For some of my own Artist Dolls of the past see here

Portraits to get me going

2011-09-19T17:09:00.000+01:00

Richard at age five, Alice Neel

Reading about the Dublin Contemporary 2011 Exhibition in Dublin I came across this image by Alice Neel: "Richard at age five". It is on show at the Douglas Hide Gallery and I truly hope I get to see it "in the flesh" so to speak.

I love its simplicity, the image draws me in.

As paintings go, and sculpture actually, I am drawn to portraits, yet I've never (?) tried to paint one.

Who knows, the new studio-to-be and the images below might just change all that?

Modigliani

Other artist that I love are, among many others...

Modigliani;

Charlie Toorop; and

Kees van Dongen

The lather two are Dutch... there is hope for me yet? :-)

Woman in Black Hat, Kees van Dongen

Self Portrait, Charlie Toorop

Healing mandalas

2011-09-15T13:38:00.000+01:00

For more than a decade I've had the desire to attend college. Something I was in the process of doing just before becoming ill thirteen years ago. Every summer I researched courses, both in terms of study- (social science) and creative courses. Every September I had to acknowledge (what I already knew) that I was not able to attend a class for more than an hour at the time (an absolute maximum)... and they are rather hard to come by :-)

So I gave up in a sense, but to fulfill my wish to study in some way, I followed a few correspondence courses through the Open College of the Arts. I studied Understanding Western Art and Starting to Write. The first course took me over 2 years, in stead of the recommended 7 months, but I did it! ... (and have forgotten pretty much all I've learned...)

Correspondence course are great, but it is solitary.

One course that I kept hoping for to do "for real" was the Art and Design Course run by VTOS an adult education organisation. For years I enquired if it would be possible to do just one module.

No.

Until this year.

To spare you the details of struggle that I still had to overcome, I did get the opportunity to attend one class.

Weaving with Pascale De Coninck

Tuesday was my first class.

I loved it!

Being creative in a group, meeting like minded people, learn a new skill, and to my delight I live to tell the tale, is all very positive indeed.

Waiting for my lift home, I sat outside and found this flower- a part of a brooch perhaps? I stuck it in my pocket. A reminder of my first day back to school.

The day after, I received a letter in the post from my 90-plus-year-old friend Wera Goldman Wera is a dance teacher- she still has a few students. This woman is a true inspiration. We only met recently via my puppeteer friend Bentsi in Israel, and we now communicate via post.

I love getting her letters, flamboyant writing, little snippets of life around her, and always something to take my breath away. In her latest letter she wrote about one of her new students who teaches mandala drawing. Wera drew a flower to illustrate... pretty much the same shape as the flower I had found the day before.

I was speechless.

Thank you Wera, and thank you to whomever is looking after me on my journey.

Wera's letter is just one of the synchronicities that are happening right now.

Being aware brings them all to my attention.

Lots of love and healing to you all.

Thanks for coming along on my journey.

Dress Rehearsal

2011-09-12T11:51:00.000+01:00

"Dress-Rehearsal"
Plants wrapped up to
protect against the wood preservative being painted
on the wood.
A heavy shower of rain made the
newspaper wrapping open up to look like a dress...

Well it's been a while since I showed up at my own blog. To be honest my energy went to the completion of my studio "The Garden Room" but alas, I'm not in there yet. "All on good time", I keep telling myself. "Be in the moment" is another frequent thought, and "don't fret about it". Hard to do, I must admit.

My dream of a few months ago is making slow progress. But there is progress, and I know it will get done. I also know with absolute certainty that I will love it when I can sit in this gorgeous space and look out over my garden, be closer to it than from anywhere in my house. That I will enjoy the light streaming in, the warmth, and to have a creative space where I can leave my 'things' after a creative adventure and not have to clear the table every time.
I do count myself lucky to have my Garden Room to look forward to.

You know what I look forward to the most?
To share my creativity with others. That really is my biggest dream.
Years ago I used to give Doll and Puppet making classes, but obviously had to give that up when I became ill. Over the years I received letters from people who knew my work and asked if I was still teaching.
I will be! See Classes for more.
Classes will be very much on a one to one basis, or possibly a group of up to 3 people, and not a whole day, or even more than 2 hours. But... but the fact that I can share my creativity with others again is something that fills my heart with warmth.

Sharing brings a smile to my face.

Sometimes sharing creativity comes in a different way.
Last week I received a message on Facebook from a young man in his early teens. He had read Flying on Little Wings and told me "that it was a great experience for him". This is wonderful to hear, of course. What is even more wonderful is that it has inspired him to start writing his own book. He posted me a handwritten copy of the first chapter. The book is dedicated to me.
This fills me with gratitude, purely for the fact that my writing/creativity has sparked the confidence in a young lad to write. A bonus greater than money can buy.
Creative work can honestly take on it's own life and for that I am forever grateful.

I also look forward to work with children in my studio. Again on a very small scale. Guiding them to create their own story, either in words, images, sculptures, whatever is right for that child.

For now, I am in a kind of dress rehearsal time I suppose. Getting ready for the real thing!

As I don't seem to be doing much writing, I thought I'll create some blank notebooks for other to fill!

Dress rehearsal also in terms of healing. The being in the now and taking each moment as is it, good or more challenging, is a work in progress. I will write a separate post about this at a later stage.

For now, dress rehearsals continue, and so does the completion of my beloved Garden Room. (Work being done as I am writing!)

Further reading:
Further info about the Doll and Puppet making classes, see Classes.
To order your own copy of Flying on Little Wings see here
For more images of the Handmade notebooks and how to order see here
Healing thoughts and progress see here

Isn't she beautiful

2011-08-20T09:21:00.004+01:00

I would like to introduce my
Garden Room Studio

The past few weeks have been incredibly exciting.

My dream of about two months ago is really coming true. A place of my own... my studio "the garden room".

Dan created a wonderful strong base to build the studio on. Strong enough to have a rooftop swimming pool... Well we have to dream right...

Christopher helped me to create a new pathway and do a lot of digging, and clearing.

base of studio and new pathway to...

I realised more and more that this project was more than just a building.

It is a statement.

I am back.

flat pack studio!

Last Tuesday my brother and nephews arrived to start the building of the actual studio. Joop had worked out, and build the frame in his workshop in Kenmare. A flat pack studio! All very exciting to see if it would fit!

Duyn Design Team

It did!

By lunchtime on Tuesday I could see what it would look like.

almost there

The building has been created with so much love and pride that I feel this has been embedded into the wood and makes for a very happy building indeed.

My deepest gratitude to all involved so far. X

Done!!
Isn't she just beautiful!

My Garden Room Studio is much bigger
than it looks from the outside.

Today or in the next few days the electricity will be put in and the studio will be insulated.

I am dreaming of the day I can move in.

I will have the best view of my garden from this lovely, inspiring building.

Lucky me.

Adrian made this video of the building.

See here for pictures of how it was,

and here to read about my journey back to being an artist
and here for a reminder about the sale of artwork

Back to school Book Offer

2011-08-19T09:02:00.000+01:00

Back to school time,

so here a little light reading

for all the (young) ones embarking on a new school year,

and a little book of encouragement for the year ahead.

Or for all of you

who don't have to pack their bags to get ready for a new academic year,

but could do with entering an enchanting world for a few minutes.

€15 for two book, including postage to anywhere in the world.

(Avondhu)

A signed copy of Flying on Little Wings (paperback):

A book, small enough to fit in ones pocket, it will bring encouragement to a new student, or anyone embarking on a new journey, may it be study, healing, a new job...

A striking artistic achievement. It will bring joy and admiration to many hearts and minds.

(Brendan Kennelly- poet)

Five Star Cat

2011-08-15T13:33:00.002+01:00

Tilly is looking for a home,

a good home.

He is a 5 ***** cat after all

Currently living in Ardmore

He has taken a liking to the local

five star hotel

He snuggles up near the patio heaters

but isn't really welcome

Maybe a beautiful cat like Tilly

is not what a hotel is about.

Now Tilly is confined to the house

housebound so to speak

If you know of anyone who is looking for a good companion

A cat with class

Update. Tilly has found a new home.

Thanks!

Making space for the new

2011-08-13T15:34:00.005+01:00

With the creation of my new studio (base has been made- building to start this week) I feel I am entering a new creative era. I am looking forward to create Artist Dolls again, and sculptures, and Artists Books.... and....

New beginnings mean doing some clearing of the "old".

The following Artist Dolls, framed photographs and framed digital images are on sale at a hugely discounted rate. Price mainly consists of post and packaging cost and some cost towards materials like framing or clay. (If you don't have paypall and would like to order any of these works, please contact me for other payment options)

Interested?

Please read on!

"Book Fairy" Artist Doll, ©Corina Duyn
45x27x28cm /17.5x10.5x11 inch

The Book Fairy, is a fairy who comes to life out of a story book, again an Artist Doll (as apposed to a doll one can play with). She represents all the magic that goes on between the book covers.

€100 including postage to anywhere in Ireland- €120 outside of Ireland.

"Yona" Artist Doll © Corina Duyn

58x50cm / 23x20 inch

Yona is an Artist Doll I started in the summer I became ill ('98). She was finished in 2003 just before my first exhibition in the Market House Art Centre in Dungarvan.

Made out of clay, wire, and lead.

For me she celebrates life.

Sold

"Growth" Photographs- framed ©Corina Duyn
75x38cm / 29.5x15 inch

"Growth" is a triptych of photographs, observing the growth of a sunflower.
A bright happy image.
€50 including postage to anywhere in Ireland- €75 outside of Ireland

"Movement" Photograph -framed ©Corina Duyn
33x40cm / 13x16 inch

"Movement" a framed photograph of the impression left by the waves on Ardmore beach.

€40 including postage to anywhere in Ireland- €50 outside of Ireland

"Protection I" digital art-photograph-framed © Corina Duyn
(framed size) 36x32cm / 14x12.5 inch

"Protection I" Digital image- photograph

At the start of the illness I felt that my life had been reduced to that comparable to an egg. Also with the possibility of growth- a new life.
€40 including postage to anywhere in Ireland- €50 outside of Ireland

"Protection II" digital art-photograph-framed © Corina Duyn
(framed size) 36x32cm / 14x12.5 inch

"Protection I" Digital image- photograph

Similar thoughts as behind "Protection I"

€40 including postage to anywhere in Ireland- €50 outside of Ireland

If you don't have paypall and would like to order any of these works, please contact me for other payment options

Article in "thejournal.ie"

2011-08-02T14:26:00.000+01:00

The day the article about my (mis)adventures with the scooter appeared in the Irish Times I was asked by Michael from "thejournal.ie" to write a piece about living with a disability- with focus on day to day living.

I must say that I was really touched by the fact I was asked on the very day that I felt I was able to "get back to work" again after the months of not being well enough to really write.

Now it has been published I must admit to be "over the moon" with all the lengthy responses, "likes" and links to facebook pages and twitter accounts.

Thank you to all the readers (I saw that it already had over 1600 views), for your time to read my thoughts on living with a disability, to respond in such length and for the private messages emailed to me through my website.

lots of love to you all.

Maybe just maybe "we" have started the national day of disability awareness...

see the article on the journal website for comments, but as always, love! to read your thoughts here too!

There is was... gone

2011-08-01T11:43:00.001+01:00

the inherited garden shed, painted up to look it's best
which became my studio
leaking roof and all!

time to go...
I am looking forward to a Real Studio

stage ...4?
the front and back panels were removed via the
boundary wall by Barry and Mariela
I felt dizzy just looking at this event!

The art of being an Artist...

2011-07-30T11:54:00.001+01:00

Well here we go, the subject of being an artist, touched on, (yet again)... in a my Previous post: "Polly and Peter brought me out on the lake in the boat and helped me in my "fight" to acknowledge, and embrace, the fact that my life is a life of creativity"

So what is an artist anyway?

An artist is a person engaged in one or more of any of a broad spectrum of activities related to creating art practicing the arts and/or demonstrating an art. (according wikipedia)

That does not get us far does it?

Art is the product or process of deliberately arranging items (often with symbolic significance) in a way that influences and affects one or more of the senses, emotions, and intellect. It encompasses a diverse range of human activities, creations, and modes of expression, including music, literature, film, photography, sculpture and paintings. (again according wikipedia)
Art: "the use of skill and imagination in the creation of aesthetic objects, environments, or experiences that can be shared with others (according brittanica online)

I like the bit "can be shared with others".

A while back I looked up Poet, and am reasonably comfortable with that description. Not so much in terms of my skills of writing poetry, but more in the way of the broader thought:

a person who has the gift of poetic thought, imagination,and creation, together with eloquence of expression.

From all of that, yes I am an artist.

Phew.

I've said it.

Yet... I seem to have a problem.

Thirteen years ago, I was working hard on my Fantasy Folk Business. Becoming ill, I felt I was given a chance to change directions. No more art.

Yet.

As a friend pointed out, I was creating drawings about not wanting to be creative...

Point taken.

Creativity was and is a lifeline that has helped me to stay sane in the challenging years of illness.

Having finally accepted that fact, I put it into my head that "I only create and write because I am ill and when I am better, I can do something else.

Warped mind or what?

I must say though that:

I am for ever grateful that I have found my writing voice and the chance to publish books.
I am for ever grateful to have (and hope to continue to) made wonderful contacts with people all over the world, because of my creative explorations... my ART.
I am touched by the messages I receive and how my work has been used in studies and thesis, again by people all over the world.
I love what I do.

Writing this I wonder what my problem with the label Artist is...

I think the "problem" lies in the fact that I got so "used" to being ill that I am having a hard time to see beyond it.
A scary thought.

This brings the thought to: "What would I like to do when I grow up (improve health wise)"?
I have no idea.
Well actually I do. I want to share my experiences with others.... through creativity.

one last look at the shed/studio as it was.

There.

Problem solved.

All these unsettling thoughts have been spurred on by the recent changes in my mindset.
As you might know from the last few blogs, I have been concentrating on the breath as healing tool. A tool available to all of us. A tool I keep reading about (in the most unlikely places, like as profile image of my facebook friend Kirsten), and hear about on tapes, on the radio, and from other people.

Breath is where it is at.

Breathing is bringing me to a different place. So is the healing I received from Dolores.
I am at a cross roads to well being.

"shed feeling sorry for itself...

After one of the sessions with Dolores, she asked me where my thoughts were.

"That I have to start working with clay again." I said. These words had seemingly nothing to do with the session I just had.
Later that evening (see this post here if you like) I read a sentence "dare to be who you are".
A few days later I woke up with the thought that maybe I can explore the idea again of having a studio in my garden.
I left my last studio 13 years ago.
Moving into my current abode, I had plans for a studio, but ran out of money. In the meantime I had made the garden shed into a studio. But it was too small, the rain came through the roof and it was cold and damp.
Making do, wasn't working.

The new studio idea was obviously the right plan for now, as within a few days I had my brother and nephew on board to build it, and got approval from the council. Also I was given the news that I had won the case against Aer Arann (more about that in a week or so) and all going well, I have some finances to build the studio.

I must say I AM excited about the prospect of the studio. Mostly so I can share my work with others again. I already have a few people interested to do a doll making/puppet making workshop.

Case closed.

my gateway was a bit like this one..

Actually, one last thought.
During a meditation with the help of some amazing healing sounds, I suddenly found myself passing through a beautiful gateway.
The grounds beyond it were like a walled garden, yet there was no wall to restrict space or movement.
The garden on the right was full of my favorite French Marigold flowers. A sea of orange. There was a lake, with birds. There was so much beauty in this space, I felt overjoyed and in awe that I was allowed to be here. There were people in the distance all edging me on to come into the garden. Sculptures of dancers. Also a pair of huge hands.
I feel that I had walked over the threshold into healing.

The garden's image is still in my head.
I closed the gates behind me.

ps... an afterthought... hours later...
Isn't the whole idea about being in the moment- the now- not to worry about what you'll do next...
I am happy what I do and who I am. That's all that matters!
:-)

Be ... at Ashley Park

2011-07-24T12:47:00.002+01:00

I agree, it's been a while since I showed up in "blogger-world' or anywhere in cyberspace for that matter.
Then again, maybe you didn't wonder where I've been hanging out.. :-) No offence!

A few blog posts back, see "The Shell must break" I wrote about the challenges faced by living with an illness and the need to be still. Be still and in the moment. Which of course is not the easiest thing to do when faced with pain and discomfort.
I have embraced this renewed knowledge with much more thought and acceptance than ever before.
The words I have read, the wisdom I have heard, the changes in my body brought on by the healing therapies from Dolores are rooting in my being.

I have taken a lot of time to be still and to really experience how I am feeling. Not all are happy thoughts. Some are 'scary'. Some are a powerful revelation of well being. Even with a body that doesn't do what I had hoped it would.

Dreams are providing some clarity as well and as a funny coincidence I had a dream about booking a holiday. Later that day I had an appointment for reflexology and polarity treatment with Dolores, and from the minute I walked in she wanted to suggest to me that maybe I should go on a little holiday...

And so I did.

Writing my wish list, I came up with water, lake, small hotel, time to reflect, nature...and with the help of google I came up with Ashley Park
All I can say is that it was love at first sight.

After emailing them to request a room which would be accessible for me with my mobility scooter, I decided to ring in stead.
Ninety year old owner Sean answered the phone. None of my requests were deemed unusual. He had the apartment for me, and yes it was free for the days I had hoped to get away.
"You made my day," I said to Sean.
"We like to make people happy," was the answer.

Two days later I arrived at Ashley Park.
All my wishes and dreams came true in the days of my visit there. Any many more besides.

Staff member Mags showed me around the apartment and made me a cup of tea.
Sinead looked after me, and other guests, during the week and made sure we were never hungry. She lovingly shared her passion for this unique place and told me about the lake, the swans, the woodlands, the walled garden, ancient trees and the fairy fort. On passing a blossoming lavender she would stop and mention it.

I spend days lying by the lake, resting in the walled garden, wrote, reflected, and sat by the fire at night time.

I had found a piece of heaven in Ireland.
I had found a wonderful place to settle into the transition I am making from illness into well being. If this well being will eventually translate into a well body, I would be delighted. My biggest goal however is to find that sense of peace (again) in my mind. Be.
Just be.

This transition brought tears too. I let an overwhelming sadness flow out of my body. I noted what was happening and didn't try to stop it.

What made the stay in Ashley Park powerful was also that I had no means to 'escape'. I had no transport, no computer, my phone was only there if I needed it.
Ashley Park proved to be a safe place to be.
To really be.

During breakfast I met some wonderful guests, who were all equally excited to have found this amazing house. All seated around the one big dining room table, packed with delicious food, breakfast lasted for hours.
Chats about the house, the lake, a boat trip and trips around the area. Chats about writing, art, gardening, music, (see red shed sessions on facebook) life, and yes illness and the need to be still and live the best life you can.

During the last few days I had the pleasure of meeting guests from Norfolk, who had been to Ashley Park about 6 or 7 times.
Polly and Peter brought me out on the lake in the boat and helped me in my "fight" to acknowledge, and embrace, the fact that my life is a life of creativity.
(More about this in a follow up post...)

The last night in my bit of heaven I scooted to the ancient trees Sinead had mentioned. I now understood her urge to go tree-climbing.

As you might gather, I am excited to have found this wonderful little place, in the middle of Ireland, near the lovely town of Nenagh. An unassuming place, which I like people to know exist and yet feel a sense of protection towards it... I don't want it to get "mobbed."

I would like to thank Sean for rescuing this place from it's near death in the '70. For the wonderful staff and for the fact that this place is private. Where else would you find a lake all to yourself, among the hundreds of ducks, and a few horses.

I'll be back.
To write.

Creative for a Second or Two (Journal 4)

2011-07-05T12:31:00.001+01:00

So much to write and yet can't get my head around it...

But have something really wonderful to share with you.
A few years ago Kirrily Anderson started a project to share/and showcase the creative talents of people living with M.E. which at the same time showed little snippets on how their lives are affected by the illness. "Creative for a Second" it was called and the book can be viewed by clicking on the link.

I am the proud owner of a printed copy of this book.

Last year I took part in the follow up project: Creative for a Second or Two.
Nine journals made it around the world. Two of them are now available to view on Issuu.
I'd like to share with you Journal number 4, where my work is among some other amazingly interesting art.

Enjoy! And I'll assure you, you'll be inspired for more than a second or two!

Open publication

Book Offer- (The sun is shining!)

2011-06-29T11:46:00.014+01:00

It's July The SUN is shining. To celebrate, a Special July Book Offer.

A signed copy of Hatched: Hatched” is one of the most energetic, generous-hearted, sharp-minded and inspiring books of poems I’ve read for quite a while

A signed copy of Cirrus Chronicles: On the first glance at the cover is enough to know you are in for a treat
A signed copy of Flying on Little Wings (paperback): A striking artistic achievement. It will bring joy and admiration to many hearts and minds
A signed copy of Crow Lines: an artistic collaboration between pupils from Liosmór Mochuda National School, and Lismore Artist and Writer Corina Duyn.

All four books for €39.99 (plus €2) postage.
This means a free copy of Flying on Little Wings, and a large discount on the postage, especially if you live outside of Europe.
Interested?
Click on the "Buy now button", and don't forget to tell me who you would like me to sign the books for. This offer has now closed, but see later blogs for current book offers

Happy reading!

Awareness ... of Nature's Art

2011-06-27T12:10:00.002+01:00

Following from yesterday's post I'd like to share with you these wonderful gifts of nature.

And yes, I DID stop and stare at these beauties.

Every day I wondered when the flowers of these leeks will reveal themselves to the world

The immensely heavy rain a few days ago brought out the best of them.

Stunning pieces of Nature's Art.

One flower daring to peep outside of it's shell.

I will take it's cue...

The shell must break...

2011-06-26T13:36:00.000+01:00

... before the bird can fly.

A quote by Tennyson, given to me as a greeting card a few years ago. The card hasn't left my books shelf since, and it's message is very appropriate at the present time.

The shell must break...

"You are the 'Hatched Woman", Dolores said when we met some time last year. "I love that book." A few months ago, I was proud to show her my handmade book: Flying on Little Wings. She held it in her hands, and uttered the words "precious, it's so precious". When she came to pick up her copy we talked about writing, creating books and about the artwork in Hatched. She asked if I still had the painting 'Footloose'. As it happened, I did. It was one of two paintings still in my possession.
We agreed on a barter for treatment in reflexology and polarity therapy.
This has been taking place during the past month or so. It has set me off on a journey of discovery way beyond the treatment.

Since having a major setback in terms on my health in May, I have found life increasingly more challenging. Pain was unbearable, but more worryingly, so was my mental state. "I don't recognise myself" I uttered. "And I feel cheated out of life". All I love to do and which are a way to help me deal with the effects of illness - gardening, working in the greenhouse, doing my writing and art, were once again taken away from me. I felt that there was little left.
(I have been more or less housebound at the start of the ME 13 years ago, but I had been able to slowly expand on these boundaries.)

Starting this session of treatments, I told all I know about the way my life has progressed over the past 5 decades (almost!) and how illness has effected me. One of the main things that I focused on was that I have never felt "grounded". I have been floating through life.
"Footloose" suddenly had a different meaning from when and why I had created it...

After the second session I was told "we talked a lot. That is unusual."
These few words stuck in my head.
I realised that even during a treatment to help me further on a path of recovery, I was not fully "here". I was not focusing on what was happening right NOW. My body was being worked on and my mind was elsewhere.
I realised that I have been doing that for a VERY long time.
It is easier to ignore the body's messages and "get on with life".

Looking for my '80 Dutch book on reflexology I found a book by a Dutch woman who had had ME. (Bange Helden, Wies Enthoven).
'You know you have to change.' He (the acupuncturist she went to) knew that I was the only one who could make this happen.'

Reading this made my body tingle.

I knew it to be true. I have always believed this but have not been able to 'go' there.
'Let it be' he said.
'What remains of me when I can only be? Wies asked herself. 'The struggle I fought with myself to really let go of everything was huge.'
'Dare to be who you're meant to be' she continues, 'was hardly an original revelation, but was obviously new for me.'

Last week I brought a visit to the library and while looking for a book on reflexology, I came across a book by fiction and non fiction writer Tim Parks: Teach us to be still. A Sceptic's Search for Health and Healing. I am learning lots from his frank and open, and often funny account of how he dealt with being ill. How the medical profession looks at one aspect only, and what do you do when they can't find anything wrong.
Breath and be still. Apparently!
Reading Parks's book I realised that I too find escape into words. '...Until I had thought about it in words, or better still, written about it, ... then I possessed it.
'We read to know we're not alone' says CS Lewis.
And for me? I write to understand.

My mind is always busy, which I thought was a gift to help me deal with decline into dark and lonely places due to illness. If I am not actually writing, I write in my head, and come up with plans for creative adventures. While doing guided meditations, I 'tell' a friend to listen to this too. When I am reading, I make a mental note to tell so and so about this book. When I am in the bath I want to get out because there is something I need to write down; when I am 'meditating' my mind goes into all sorts of directions and none of them have anything to do with stillness. When I see a lovely bird in the garden, I have to get my camera in stead of really seeing the bird.
'Mind and body part company', Park realises, 'you're more at home on the page than on the pavement.' ... 'Your mind is you. Your body is your vehicle.'
I was told the same words by Dolores...

All a sobering thought.
I am very busy, and am not- as I thought- working my way through what really matters to me- finding healing, finding a way to improve my well being, physically and mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
'Give yourself the gift of change,' Kerie Logan tells me time and time again during her guided meditations. 'Let go of any resistance.'
I want change.
But have been scared to go 'there'.
There where I have no control. I have no idea where 'there' really is.
Being much more in the moment and being still already brought me to some uncomfortable 'home-truths'.

The shell must break before the bird can fly...

With the help of Kerie, Dolores, Wies, Tim and all of those that have gone before me I will embrace the stillness. And break the shell so I can start my flight with a fresh eyes and healthy wings.
I will make friends with myself as Pema Chodron tells me during her excellent lecture on Matri and and Tonglen meditation.

You know what dawned on my the other night - while sitting in the bath - that Stillness and Illness are almost the same word.
St- illness
Saint Illness?

Be good my friends, and maybe be still?

(If you'd like to comment, any chance you do it here in the comment box in stead of on FB or Twitter? This way I, and other blog visitors get to read it too. Many thanks.

More Crow Lines

2011-06-10T13:31:00.003+01:00

A visual blog today, with some of the amazing images created by equally amazing children.

The exhibition is up in Lismore Library and already had visitors who were really taken by the illustrations and how the children had taken the words of the poems into account.
A fresh approach.
Just lovely. And powerful.

There is a limited edition 28 page booklet available with all the illustrated works, See my website
previous post about this project: school

Three of the Artists at the Exhibition at the Library

Front covers illustrated by the children

Cool cover

Back cover, equally cool!

Crow Lines indeed...

A Performing Crow

Horse in conversation with the crows. Love it!

powerful

I want to fly!

Horse riding crows, where else would you see it?

the back covers with a bit about the individual illustrators

same in more detail

Crow Lines

2011-06-08T11:11:00.002+01:00

Well, I didn't think I could swing it...

But I did.

The illustration project I had started just before getting ill again (see here for more about the school project) is due to be presented to the parents of the pupils of Liosmor Mochuda National School during the Celebration of Books Event on the 14th of June next.

I gave it the title

Crow Lines

I have the pages printed, the cover for the children to illustrate, designed.

Tomorrow I will go to the school and be with the children when they illustrate their own cover,

for their own, hand-bound book.

In the meantime the illustrated poems are being exhibited at Lismore library during the Immrama Festival of Travel Writing.

Please come along if you can and support the young illustrators!

Cover, back and front of the new publication Crow Lines

For those of you who won't be able to see the works "in the flesh" so to speak,

I have created a limited edition of this book see here

To buy a copy see here

The project in a nutshell:

The poems are a selection of works first exhibited in 2004 at Lismore Library as part of my Fit to Fly exhibition, and were mounted courtesy of Waterford County Library.In 2006 many of these poems were published, in a slightly edited format, in my book Hatched.

During one of my visits to the school to talk about the writing and making of books, I suggested to Ms. England, that maybe the children could illustrate the mounted poems.A re-cycling project I suppose, with the added bonus, as Ms. England suggested, ‘that the children are involved with literature without them knowing it.’

I am not sure who enjoyed this event the most. I certainly came home feeling privileged and elated from spending an hour working with the children. The drawings still give me goose bumps; they touch me deeply. So does the fact that in a very relaxed manner, I was able to communicate with these wonderful young minds what it is like to have a disability and to live with a long term illness. I hope that their minds will stay open to view people with a disability in a positive manner.

To put the book-making talk into practice, each of the illustrators were given printed copies of the completed works, a cover to design, and were encouraged to create their own handmade book. I certainly am in awe of this selection of Artist Books created! Many illustrations bring a smile to my face. I hope they will have the same effect on you.

Many thanks to Ms. England and her wonderful pupils; City Print Cork; and Lismore Library Staff for exhibiting the now illustrated poems again.

If you like to share your thoughts, please leave a comment in the box below.

(not really on Facebook at the moment...)

Thanks for your visit!

Helping hands and thoughtful minds

2011-06-03T07:08:00.000+01:00

Having "travelled" through dark days filled with pain and despair, I am hugely thankful to all the helping hands and thoughtful minds I had the privilege to encounter.

Nurses and doctors in the hospital, my GP and staff at health centre, friends in cyberspace, neighbours, friends in the 'flesh' and the 'phone and letter writing' friends.

Thank you all. You know who you are.

Thank you all! XX

During this past month I also heard some good news from 'cyber-friends' about the support they received from the medical/community services, which will make a huge difference in the quality in their lives.

Here two of these events:

Di emailed this to me:

NEWSFLASH

I love the health department. I never thought I would say this- but who does --? I'm so excited I saw a lovely OT today . she took one look at me and said ' okay ,we'll get you a power chair with head and neck support etc etc and a back up manual one . I didn't have to convince her or argue or any such thing. and it comes at no cost through the health department . i love this country . even the way it is !

So I will be mobile again as soon as it all gets organised .Rog will have to build a ramp then i can get outside again!!! calloh callay ___ A gardening bag on the back and i can spray the roses, water the tomatoes , talk to the cockateil, take spotty the dog for a ' walk '- once she learns to go with the chair--- tell the cucumbers not to be whimps just because its frosty, and all sorts of exciting things ..even go for a 'walk ' with the boyswill even be able to get to the kitchen to feed myself and to the bathroom without collapsing from the effort .

i hope you are excited for me-- The furniture is already cringing as it anticipates my learning to drive it -- and a few door jambs are in danger of a bump or six -- but I am rapt!! just had to share the news . love you di

Then I read this in Barry's Blog: Only Resting: One man's journey from 'normality' to chronic illness.

"Returning to the present, today I was visited by my existing Occupational Therapist and an OT and Physiotherapist from the Rehab team at the local council. My existing OT was delivering my new bath chair and the Rehab team were here to talk about how I can have a decent level of independence and keep my muscles from wasting away without risking crashes/relapses.

... I'm also going to get elbow crutches to try as they may allow me to be on my feet a bit more without being in danger of falling over!

All of this has really lifted my spirits. I am delighted with how helpful and compassionate the therapists have been and I really feel like I have people on my side. I also feel like I have aspirational goals in terms of independence and getting some sort of quality of life back. It feels good to entertain the possibility of escaping these four walls."

For more about this blog post see here

These thoughts stayed in my mind since I read them. I am grateful that the physical problems people with ME encounter are taking serious. There is hope for us yet.

Love and health to you all.

As always it is so nice to know I have your company!

If you like to comment on any of the above, would you be so kind

to write it in the comment box below, instead of on Facebook?

This way other blog visitors can read it too,

and I don't miss your comment when I am not logging on to Facebook. Thank you X

Saved...

2011-05-29T11:57:00.000+01:00

While attending the plants in my greenhouse... I heard Robert (Cat) in the garden,

accompanied by a noise I couldn't identify.

Robert was in the process to acquaint himself with a young visitor.

The bird, which I think was a fledgling blackbird,

had obviously not been told by his parent about cats...

He just sat there, on a branch of a honeysuckle.

After chasing Robert away, I got my camera, and was able to get very close to the bird.

He was not scared at all,

or maybe so petrified that it was unable to move.

I gently helped the bird move out of my garden to safer grounds.

I found Robert sulking on the couch...

upset I'd given out to him.

Life can be tough!

As always it is so nice to know I have your company! If you like to comment on any of the above, would you be so kind to write it in the comment box below, instead of on Facebook? This way other blog visitors can read it too, and I don't miss your comment when I am not logging on to Facebook. Thank you X

Visitors planning on moving in

2011-05-26T10:35:00.000+01:00

A few days ago, I was lying on the couch and watched a sparrow fly into my kitchen

and sat, quite relaxed, on the top of the open door.

He left, came back for a second look, and checked out the top of the kitchen cupboards.

Left again, and came back with its partner.

The twittering going on was as if to say, "What you think, would this be a nice place to move in to?"

Robert was watching from the opposite site of the kitchen, also purched on top of a kitchen unit.

The swallows flew very close to him, but didn't seem to be bothered by his presence.

One went further afield and checked out my bathroom.

As much as I love to have swallows nesting in my house,

and be able to watch the family grow from the comfort of my couch...

the amount of 'poop' from their brief visit put me off the idea...

and the fact that it meant I'd have to keep the kitchen door open at all times...

(it's cold the past month)

and Robert probably would have chicks for breakfast ...

As alway, I love to hear/read your thoughts.

Facebook still moving on without me, so if you like to share your thoughts,

please be so kind to do it here, below in the comment box.

Many thanks for your visit.

X Corina

Bob Dylan and birds

2011-05-24T11:27:00.002+01:00

Before I'll show you what I've been up to the past few days,

I would like to say happy birthday to Bob Dylan

He's 70 today.

This event brought me back to my16th birthday.

I was given an (old) single by Bob Dylan's

Corrina, Corrina

(to listen click on the link and, on then on the arrow on the album)

Remember the good old times of records and singles?

Corrina Corrina was the B-side of Blowin' in the Wind

What I had forgotten was the lyrics mention birds!!

Corrina, Corrina
Gal, where you been so long?
Corrina, Corrina
Gal, where you been so long?
I been worr’in’ ’bout you, baby
Baby, please come home
I got a bird that whistles
I got a bird that sings
I got a bird that whistles
I got a bird that sings
But I ain’ a-got Corrina
Life don’t mean a thing
Corrina, Corrina
Gal, you’re on my mind
Corrina, Corrina
Gal, you’re on my mind
I’m a-thinkin’ ’bout you, baby
I just can’t keep from crying
Copyright © 1962, 1966 by Warner Bros. Inc.; renewed 1990, 1994 by Special Rider Music

anyway.... this is what I have been up to the past few days.
Reacquainting myself with my garden and the birds.

No idea of the name of the shrub, but love the flowers

Strawberries in my 'greenhouse' awaiting for a bit of sun to bring out that

amazing mouthwatering sweetness.

Acrobatic sparrow. I took the picture through the window, so not so clear, but the fact that the sparrow on the bottom of the almost empty seed-ball-bag, is balancing herself with one leg stuck on the bag, the other one dangling in mid air.

so cute.

made me laugh.

busy times at the feeding 'stations'

and all the sunflower seeds that land in the raised bed, are eaten by the young sparrows, not yet able to balance on the feeders.

During this short journey through my garden, I was accompanied by the gorgeous song from a song thrush.

Lucky me

Still not on facebook, and doubt I'll get there in the next while,

so please, if you'd like to comment, please use the box below?

This way I, and other visitors to this page can 'read' your thoughts

Thank you X

I'm back, kind of...

2011-05-21T10:15:00.000+01:00

Remember the last wonderful afternoon in the company of some wonderful children?
I do.
But life has brought me on another roller coaster ride ever since.

I wasn't feeling too well the following day. Was the hour long adventure too much?
Later in the day I was "greeted" by severe pain. Couldn't sit down, lie down or relax with it. Ended up in bed at 7pm, a hot water bottle strapped to my back, stomach filled with painkillers.
To make a long story short, I ended up in hospital with suspected kidney stone, which aggravated fibromyalgia along the left side of my body.
Excruciating pain.
I changed from a reluctant pill taker to happily taking any cocktail of drugs offered to me.

The worst however was and still is... the fact that I was/am so aware to the fact how big a part illness plays in my life. I try so hard to make it all fine and good, but here I was stuck in a hospital bed, ill, dependent, too much time to think, too much time to see the hardship in a small hospital ward.
I felt, "what am I crying about?" I don't have cancer; I don't have young children at home and have to deal with the effects of chemotherapy, and other immense difficult life altering changes for one of the young women.

We had some laughs there too. Much needed light entertainment created by ourselves to deal with life behind doors. Plans were hatched to rob an off licence, dressed in our dressing gowns, armed with the stand holding our drips, and have our fluid bag filled with alcohol.
Laughs too, about the treat of wine gums treats for drinking prune juice; and all those silly 'joys'.

Once released from hospital, I was FULL of conviction that all is well. Being in my own bed was going to make all the difference.
It didn't.
I was still in pain, and incredibly exhausted.
The cocktail of drugs was increased. I lay like a zombie on the couch and saw watching tv for an hour here or there as a good way to spend some time.
With that in mind, I thoughts "I must be ill. I never see tv as a great way to spend time..."

Last night I had a break through.
Or a break down.
I cried to the point that I now have the most wonderful puffy eyes...
Beautiful.
Lovable.

Having been told again that I am living with a chronic illness always comes as a shock to me.
I know it is the case.
I've also been told that I didn't get ill again because of something I did, or didn't do.
Glad to have been told this.
I can either lie in bed and be ill, or get as much as possible out of my life by doing what I can, and be ill.

I can be well.
Within the given boundaries, with a positive, creative, and acceptance mind, I am well.

No doubt life will be lived creatively again. Watch this space to see what creative turns this latest reality check might bring fort. :-)

As energy is extrememly limited and I have to make choices on how to spend it,

one place I won't be for a while, is facebook,

so if you like to comment on any of the above,

would you be so kind to write it in the comment box below, instead of on Facebook?

Thanking you for your understanding and support.

Hatched poems- "Re-Hatched"

2011-05-05T11:07:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I had the fortune to spend an hour in the company of the children at Liosmor Mochuda National school. A date that was planned during my last visit there, just before the Easter Holidays, when I talked about my latest book, and the making of handmade books.

Lucky me!

The background to yesterday's visit.

In 2004 I had an exhibition in Lismore Library (and later at Tramore library) and as part of this there we a selection of mounted poems on show. This was the first time my writing made it into the world outside.

There were approximately 35 poems. Some of these eventually made it, although slightly edited, into my first book Hatched (see above "books"tab).

These mounted poems were lingering in my house for years. I never had the courage to throw them away.

Before my last visit to the school I thought: maybe the poems can be re-hatched with illustrations by the children. This way they get a new lease of life. "The children get to work with literature," as their teacher Ms Mary England said, "without them knowing it."

I explained about the poems, read some out and asked which image would come to mind. Lots of suggestions were offered.

Each child was given one poem and if it was too difficult a poem to understand, or to create an image for, they were given another one.

Ms England and myself walked around the classroom and encouraged the children with their creations.

I walked around with goosebumps all over my body when viewing some of the work being produced. Some turned out funny, clever, heart warming, beautiful, and amazing.

I will photograph them all and make a little booklet out of them and we have a very good chance to have them exhibited at the library again.

I felt honoured to be working with the children. It was worth every available inch of energy!

Thank you all!!

This image is by Graham, he started with drawing the egg on the top left

and made his way around the page to have the bird hatch.

After seeing the colourful bird peeping it's head out on the bottom left,

I said I would be very happy to be this bird. Happy and colourful.

The bird is a cross between an eagle and a peacock.

What more can I say!

As always it is so nice to know I have your company!

If you like to comment on any of the above, would you be so kind to write it in the comment box below,

instead of on Facebook?

This way other blog visitors can read it too, and I don't miss your comment when I am not logging on to Facebook. Thank you X

Amazon!

2011-05-04T13:01:00.001+01:00

Dear all,

I hope this finds you well, and dry... it's lashing rain here for the past few days.

This morning I 'visited' my greenhouse (poly-tunnel) and I found it really soothing to hear the rain on the plastic dome. This sounds always brings me back to holidays; sitting in a tent and hear the rain.
I can hear you think: rain and holiday, how can that me a positive memory, how can it spark such lovely soothing feelings?

Well I don't know the answer, other than that it is just so!

A visitor to my greenhouse

Walking in the rain earlier, also made me feel rather good.
There have not been many times during the past 13 years that I walked in the rain!
Exciting!
Trust me!!

Other excitement today is the fact that my My books are now on Amazon
A big adventure has taken place and I have now reached foreign lands.

Please visit my page and if you are up to it and are a "lover" of my books (Hatched, Cirrus Chronicles and Flying on Little Wings), please, please write a review, or click on the 'like' button on top of each book page.

If you like to order books, of course, please do so!
The books are still for sale via my own shop but as I only have the paypall option for overseas buyers, Amazon might just make it easier for them/you.

I don't know if I am excited about this... the snail ate my hot cayenne pepper seedlings..

of course I hope that they were HOT already!

An Extraordinary Affair (from RTE Radio Documentary)

2011-05-03T10:29:00.001+01:00

This is a story I would like to share with you all.
It is a story of courage, a story of love, a story of the extraordiary lives of two women over two hundred years ago.
You can listen to the always brilliant Documentary on One here but maybe first read the story, and view the images?
Enjoy!

An Extraordinary Affair
from the RTE website

The Ladies of Llangollen as they came to be known, were two upper-class Anglo-Irish women from Kilkenny.

Eleanor Charlotte Butler (1739 - 1829) was the youngest daughter of the Butler family of Kilkenny Castle. However, her family had difficulties getting her married off - and so introduced her to a young lady - whom they hoped would become her friend and together they could search for two husbands.

Sarah Ponsonby (1755 - 1832) lived with relatives in Woodstock, Kilkenny.

Their families lived only two miles from each other. They met in 1768, and quickly became friends. Over the years they formulated a plan of a private rural retreat. Rather than face the possibility of being forced into unwanted marriages, they ran away together in April 1778. Their families hunted them down and forcefully tried to make them give up their plans - in vain.

They decided to move to England but ended up in Wales, and set up home at Plas Newydd, near the town of Llangollen in 1780.

They devoted their time to seclusion, private studies of literature and languages and improving their estate. They did not actively socialise and were uninterested in fashion.

After a couple of years, their life attracted the interest of the outside world. Their house became a haven for all manner of visitors, mostly writers such as Robert Southey, Wordsworth, Shelley, Byron and Scott, but also the military leader Duke of Wellington and industrialist Josiah Wedgwood; aristocratic novelist Caroline Lamb, who was born a Ponsonby, came to visit too. Even travellers from continental Europe had heard of the couple and came to visit them, for instance Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau, the German nobleman and landscape designer who wrote admiringly about them.

The Ladies were known throughout Britain, but in fact led a rather unexciting life. Queen Charlotte wanted to see their cottage and persuaded the King to grant them a pension. Eventually their families came to tolerate them.

Butler and Ponsonby lived together for the rest of their lives, over 50 years. Their books and glassware had both sets of initials and their letters were jointly signed.

Eleanor Butler died in 1829. Sarah Ponsonby died two years later. Their house is now a museum run by Denbighshire County Council. Both of the ladies are buried at St Collen's Church in Llangollen.

Produced and narrated by Leeanne O'Donnell

Production Supervision by Liam O'Brien

First broadcast Saturday 30th April, 2011

An Irish radio documentary from RTÉ Radio 1, Ireland - Documentary on One - the home of Irish radio documentaries.

RTÉ.ie Radio 1: Documentary on One - An Extraordinary Affair

As always it is so nice to know I have your company.

If you like to comment on any of the above, would you be so kind to write it in the comment box below, instead of on Facebook? This way other blog visitors can read it too, and I don't miss your comment when I am not logging on to Facebook. Thank you X

The beauty is in the detail

2011-05-02T09:51:00.003+01:00

A few days ago I was given a macro-lens on loan.

One step further to fulfilling my dream of owning one!

Playing with it's possibilities, I created this series of images of the Aquilegia.

Robert (Cat) has to get into the picture again see here what I mean,

although this time it is just with a few hairs!

Watering the garden 'handsfree' gave me time to play with capturing water on 'film'

Love, Love this one!! Enlarge it if you can, and "see" the drop of water fall from the flower buds

... and to come back to yesterday's post write-time...

As I am facilitating the next writers group meeting I am about to consult the book by Julia Cameron

The RIGHT to WRITE.

Didn't I find the answer to my query while glancing over the back cover!

It's about using writing to bring clarity and passion to the act of living.

Case closed (for now)

As always it is so nice to know I have your company!

If you like to comment would you
Please be so kind to write it in the comment box below,
instead of on Facebook?
This way other blog visitors can read it too,
and I don't miss your comment when I am not logging on to Facebook.
Thank you X
or tick any of the boxes with your responses...
much appreciated :-)