When Women Gather!

The First Women's Drum Circle (WDC) formed last night in Jacksonville Beach on the front lawn of the Renaissance Healing Center (RHC) -- the perfect location for the WDC!


Thirty-five women gathered - some out of curiosity, others seeking strength in the connection with women, many experienced drummers and belly dancers seeking another venue to drum, a few in support of my new and exciting adventure, and all attracted to the age old tradition and universal connection of women and drumming.


The beautiful sky and ocean breeze were our friendly companions throughout the night as we watched the evening and the sun set to the rhythm of our drums.

Bridging our east coast beach communities of St. Augustine to Atlantic Beach and over the intracoastal to the west beaches, was the beacon of the drum.



Recognizing the need to share our energy and be the creative beings that women are and continue to be ,was my motivation for forming this Women's Drum Circle and to provide a place that women could gather and join in the drumming community.

Thanks so much to the Renaissance's location - rain or shine - we will have many more enjoyable evenings.



A few of the women gathered were Jane Chadwick, president of the sawgrass women's club and Joan Tobey of sawgrass; Debbie Young, local acupuncturist and full-moon drummer; Carolyn Drazien of Funky Shui Divas Home Staging and Decorating; Kate Cordell of Ocean Yoga; Irene Farwell of New York Life; Jane Wade and 2 friends from St. A; Lacy Norman-Belly Dancer and Pilates Instructor at RHC; Heather Hixon - RHC massage therapist and yoga instructor; and, of course my drum circle collaborator, Lynn Curtin - 'The Voice.'





That is just a few of the women 35 women sharing the glorious evening with me and the beginning of a new gathering for women.


I always knew 'THE RHYTHM METHOD' would take on new meaning to me at some point in my life!!!!!


And, we all redefined it last night as we played our drums.


We enjoyed the Lacy's bellydancing and found that it is harder than it looks.


Practice Practice Practice in the drum circles in the future.



We hope more will be joining us in the fun.











For more detail you can contact me at 904-334-5290 or marilynsonthemove@yahoo.com

http://www.debbieyoungap.com/
Carolyn Drazien (carolyndiva1@yahoo.com)
http://www.oceanyoga.biz/


http://www.renaissancehealingcenter.com/
nifarwell@ft.newyorklife.com
http://www.journeyofthedrum.com/



We're just keeping the Beat!

RAM

RAM - Riverside Arts Market............


Finally made it there today after months of saying we would -- why today?


Purpose: To see Steve Alvarado and his band - WhirledJam (could that also stand for worldjam :) ? i think so).


Reaction: The best! ..... Steve, the band, and the marketplace. Protected from the sun and any bad weather...it is the perfect place to start a Saturday morning.


We were impressed with the selection of food, baked items, jewelry, creative oddities, music (especially WhirledJam), community action booths, and nice people (like these 2 adorable people here -- jenna and my hunk of a husband ;))

After trying the Greek Salad and still feeling like I needed a little more -- who could resist these guys?..............................:)

A few trinkets later .... we were full of food, fun, and goodies for my

daughter and for me. We'll defnitely be back.

and The Beat Goes On.........

Your imagination, please!

Now, using your colorful imagination (because i didn't get too many pictures) --

See a Circle of 22 adventurous souls sitting around a candlelit center of a beautiful room with wooden floors and stone fireplace.......each person, rhythmically drumming on their personally selected drum or percussion instrument......each, tuning in to the different sounds around them, hearing themselves in connection with the others and the difference each one makes tonight and in life, while they slowly, rhythmically connect to the musical expressions of the collective group.

The beat starts quietly and methodically and then raises to a crescendo of blended sounds filling the room with a beat of its own. Dynamic, exciting, spiritual, meditative, and thrilling.

That was last night, that was our group of adventurers and passionate drummers who came together at the beautiful Palm Valley Gardens location to explore this interesting medium of connectivity in the community - Drum Circles.

They were not disappointed. They are ready for more.

These 22 adventurers and explorers must be mentioned -- they included area professionals such as: Dean Allan, our evening's workshops facilitator, drummer, and music teacher from St. Augustine; Steve Alvarado, experienced drummer and a part of the downtown drum circle; Debbie Young, Qigong instructor and Full Moon Drum Circle facilitator at the Jax Beach location; Mims Cushing, local writer/author and drummer; Michele Andrews, partner/owner of Palm Valley Gardens; Barbara Lutes, NIA instructor; and Andrew Carey, massage therapist and drummer/chanter.

All of these individuals offered so much to the evening; and their enthusiasm and love for drumming poured out to all of the rest of the many other supportive friends from uptown, downtown, around town, and intown that joined us last night.

These friends and new community are....Barbara King-Hall, Donna Christensen, Bobbi York, Francine Smith, Ida Doherty, June Land, Lena Gallion, Lyn, Mary Howell, Michael, Rick Drazien, Charlie and Colette Sellars, Odiya Slickis, and, of course, me and my adorable hunk of a husband, Frankie-Baby.

Now that's a powerful group!

We all left with a sensation of continuity and community -- with a feather in our caps and a decorated river rock marking our time together......

....................as the river flows, so does our life!

Keep marching to the beat of YOUR own drum!

Hey yanga, ho yanga, hey yan yan!

View Dean's Blog: omrose.blogspot.com

A Busy Month!

Just when I thought there wasn't anything happening to write about --- along came 'Dual-ing Birthday.'

Our friends, Rick and Carolyn Drazien, both celebrated their birthdays last night at Maggiano's at Town Center.

(TIP: make reservations.......get your own drinks at the bar while waiting for your table....!)

With the recommendation of our waiter, Billy, we went with the 'Classic' selection from the menu! Yikes - 2 of everything from appetizers to dessserts.

For those of you who have been there, you already know this, but we didn't------That Was One Heck of A Lot of Food.

We did our best and brought the rest home for lunch today. M-m-m-m good!

To top the evening off, we headed to the best place in town to watch the full moon playing peek-a-boo through the clouds -- Casa Marina Martini Bar Deck -- Wow! is all I can say.

A perfect evening with a wonderful couple -- laughter and celebration was the evening focus.

Happy Birthday to Carolyn and Rick -- Cheers!

BOA's.....

The perfect night to dig through our closets and pull out our colorful Boa's.(feathered Boa's, that is!) If you don't bring your own -- you could buy one that night!

All in keeping with the mood of the evening - boa's, women, and lots of powerful estrogen filled the concert hall of FCCJ's Wilson Center for Girls Night - The Musical.


My daughter, Jenna, and I were completely thrilled by the performance.

Starting with Act I thru the finale, we laughed, danced, felt the emotion of life stages, sang some of the greatest songs such as: Man, I feel like a Woman, We are Family, Lady Marmalade, and I Will Survive, and clapped, and clapped, and clapped.

The awesome cast blew us away with their personalities, voices, and antics. Oh, how we can relate to their stories!

Many good 'one-liners' that I hope to remember.

What a Story -- What a Night!
Lots of Fun and A Don't Miss for Sure!

Very Interesting Comparisons...

In a recent Arbus Magazine, there was an interview with several of the top architects in the area.

The question for each of them to respond to was basically: "How Do You Measure a Successful Building?"

As I began reading their individual answers, I began to see the comparison between a Successful Building and a Successful Person/Life/Body.

Here are a few of my favorite answers. As you read them, pretend you are thinking about a person/body/life. You will find very interesting similarities....

1. Preston Haskell: ..."It would include visual appeal, integration with surroundings, and sense of timelessness." (Now think how we feel about ourselves.)

2. Tom Hurst: ..."that which gracefully provides for the needs of the project and has the ability to affect lives in a positive way." (Interesting.)

3. Richard Skinner: ".....time, of course, is the best judge." (Isn't it always.)

4. Michael Stuebben: "....the interior environment, the ability to enhance the atmosphere ....... the visual seduction often plays too important of a role in the overall evaluation. (Now, that's what I say.)

5. R.Dean Scott: "....the appeal and emotions they evoke in others.... and where we would do it the same again." (Oh, yes.)

6. Thomas Duke: "... firmness, commodity, and delight.... how well it functions for its intended use." (Back to the sit-ups.)

7. Craig Davisson: "..one that will live on and be judged in the distant future." (It is our legacy that is important.)

8. Carlos DelValle: "....they enhance the user's experience and quality of life, and they provide a positive social and environmental impact on their surroundings. (yes, I like that.)

9. Stephen Lovett: ".....inspire those who come in contact with them, and serve their intended purpose with distinction." (That is the truth!)

10. Ted Pappas: ".....strong, useful, and beautiful." (Simply said.)

So, what do you think? Interesting, eh?

www.arbus@arbus.com; http://www.arbus.com/

Life is a River

As I curiously seek answers to find my potential and fulfill my life's purpose, I find myself being encouraged by friends (Abby, for one) and a growing community of supportive women.

This last weekend, I particpated in a fantastic workshop presented by Dale Beaman of Beaman Coaching. Held downtown in the Aetna Building overlooking the beautiful St. John River -- it was easy to be swept along. The workshop title was 'Life Is A River,' and so it went.

Dale created the perfect environment for us. We played, we created, we meditated, we sang (see right column), and we experienced revelations that will keep us unstuck and able to continue to flow with our lives.

Clearly, I'm not an artist, but there is freedom in this drawing! Freedom to live the life given to me, and I'm ready to keep going with the flow and see where it takes me. In the meantime, I'm sure enjoying the ride.

If you get the chance to experience a workshop with Dale, you, too, will get on the boat and go with the flow. I'll be boating too........join me!
More detail on Dale's workshops......
Dale Beaman, MPH, PCC
Beaman Coaching & Company, LLC
www.BeamanCoaching.com
www.LifeasaRiver.com
904-504-5748

You, Me, and CARLOS at Johnson Gallery

So much to do and so little time!

I'm glad I made it to the J. Johnson Gallery exhibition of Carlos Betancourt's new work.

As usual, the opening reception was the place to kick off the weekend on Friday night. If you didn't see a friend or an acquaintance that you knew, then, all you had to do was wait awhile, because everyone was there!

The party-girls were obviously out analyzing Carlos' artwork! There's Cindy, Dany, and me! And, of course, my 'hunk of a husband' joined me or shall I say, 'acted as my bodyguard.' :)

Even though Carlos was surrounded by his female entourage, my friend Clyde snagged him for a quick photo-op with me. (Afterall, I do have a local travel and events blog that just MUST write about him.)

Then, and only then, did I have a camera issue. Yes, suddenly, the flash was acting up and 3 photos were snapped and unusable. Yikes! Oh my, what's a girl to do? Focus, woman, focus!!!!!!

With my anxiety building and Carlos quickly getting dragged away by another group, I began pushing buttons on the camera. Then, right before I was awash with complete panic of loosing this fleeting opportunity, I saw the light!!!! Yes, the flash worked! Snap - got it! Carlos, me, and Mary Jean!

Now, I have proof ..... I was right there beside the very talented, famous, and extremely patient, Carlos Betancourt! I understand why his photo scenes are absolutely 'the best' -- Carlos has the patience and tolerance to get it right and knows it makes the difference.

While Carols is predominantly a photographer, his work behind the lens is only a portion of his art. As mentioned on his website, Carlos' concepts materialize with the help of family and friends in complex photo performances. Betsy and I were auditioning to be a part of his next dynamic scene. He creates elaborate scenes of human interaction using an eclectic array of props and the creation of ellaborate photo displays such as this one with a huge variety of colorful Christmas ornaments.
Be sure to stop on by while Carlos is still there. You have until June 26.

More information can be found on these websites.....http://www.jjohnsongallery.com/or Carlos at http://www.carlosbetancourt.com/.

I'm exhausted!

Bittersweet!

Who doesn't look forward to the day when they can retire and move to the mountains of Tennessee? A dream for many.....today, a reality for one!

The bittersweet picture to the left has been a typical one in the past, but, one we won't be seeing in the future. The friendship and connection of two men working together for 16 years is invisible to the naked eye, but strongly felt by my husband and his sales manager as they share last words at Ron's retirement party. Both agreed, they were better men 'because' of their working relationship. Now, that's a send off.

I say they are both receiving an MIT degree (Men in Transition!).....

Fortunately, our ever present caterer, Diana Bess made this transition worthwhile by serving Ron's favorite meal -- ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, and chocolate cake. Can't let him leave hungry!

The office staff gathered with warm wishes knowing Ron would be 'missed, but not forgotten.'

What's up in them thar hills?

(Need a caterer for home event or office gathering - contact Diana at dbess1@bellsouth.net)

I'M FEELING WICKED!

Oh, so Wicked! and Oh, so cold! My honey was there to keep me warm and to purchase my WICKED sweatshirt for me. A Tshirt would have been fine, but not on that night. I believe they kept the A/C turned on 'cold' so they could sell sweatshirts. It worked!
I was wickedly warm.

The theatre production was fantastic and such a twist from the witches point of view. Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and lastly, the Scarecrow made only small appearances.

The crowd was very pleased, everyone seem to love it -- Me, not so much.

The sound, at times, left me wishing I had earplugs. Loved the set though and the actors did an amazing job getting their personalities and stories over to the crowd. Only a few people left after the first 1 1/2 hour set. My applause to the wonderful cast and the EMERALD CITY set designer...fantastic.!

Defying Gravity!

Red Fish, Blue Fish, Flounder and Trout!

Red Fish, Blue Fish, Flounder and Trout isn't a Dr. Seuss book - - it's the Catch of the Day when you enjoy Oldest City Fishing Guides in Mayport Beach, FL.

Yes, it's Fresh Fish, Cold Fish - who can resist? How do I get fresh fish? I go fishing!!!!!!

Captain Rob Aldridge, owner of Oldest City Fishing Charters is ready to help you cast your hooks. Rob offers half and full day charters both inshore and near short, light tackle and fly fishing trips, and plain old touring and sightseeing, if that's your choice.

Go ahead, give him a call at 904-403-6136 or find him at http://www.oldestcityfishingguides.com/.

We can swap fish stories!

La-TEA-Da!

Afternoons! Oh, how I love them - especially when it's Tea Time at Bistro de Leon.

Located within steps from the famous Bridge of Lions on Cathedral Place -this is a restaurant that fits into its neighborhood – Bistro de Quartier. It’s a small cozy café in a cozy town.

When you get there, please order for me.....I'll be there in a jiffy. I'll have the Yummy Raspberry Napoleon and possibly you could try the luscious Strawberry Tart.

This scrumptously decadent afternoon is all because of Chef Jean-Stephane Poinard. The Bistro de Leon is featuring Tea Time from 2:30 – 5:00pm every Thursday thru Sunday.

And, that's not all! The French pastries served are exquisite and are baked by Poinard and his staff of French chefs. Along with the pastry menu and tea, guests can order artisan breads, tea, coffee, espresso, beer and wine. Now, do I have you?

Tea Time in St. Augustine is the perfect time to relax and take a break from whatever activities have been filling your day. Learn more about the Chef at Bistro de Leon at http://www.bistrodeleon.com.

Together, Jean-Stephane and Valerie Poinard invite their guests to ‘Enjoy the Bistro at Tea Time and live the moment with us”.

Bistro de Leon, #12 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, Florida 32084, 904-810-2100,
http://www.bistrodeleon.com/

Coaches are not just for the Ball Field....

On April 23, four FCCA coaches representing FocalPoint Business Coaching (Abby Vega), Easy Wellness Today (Lucy Buckner), Career Choices Unlimited (Marilyn Feldstein), and The Leadership Guild (Gina Maria Jerome) conducted a free “Experience Coaching” event at the Watson Realty office on Southside Blvd.

Participants in attendance got to sample different coaching styles from a variety of disciplines (Leadership, Business, Wellness, and Career) as well as understand how coaching empowers people, drives action, measures progress, and produces results! All of the women are members of the First Coast Coaches Association.

Have you explored all your dreams, ambitions, and options, that can lead to greater business success and personal and professional fulfillment? If not, our next event is being planned for June.

Call Abby Vega at 904 285-7222 to reserve your space today.

Not My Aunt Kate!

She might not be my Aunt Kate, but I'm visiting her frequently! Aunt Kate's is a new restaurant on the intracoastal waterway in Vilano Beach.

Local beach residents may remember Oscar's Old Florida Grill that burned down a while back. Aunt Kate's was built right on the same spot. Built in a 'cracker' style -- it has a charm all of its own.

On Friday night, the crowd had already gathered and our wait was 50 minutes for outside and 40 for inside. With the no-see-um's beginning to buzz around, we decided to eat indoors. We didn't mind the wait though, because our timing was perfect. We strolled along the deck, boardwalk, and pier capturing this most beautiful sunset.

Aunt Kate's provides a wonderful new venue for diners. Open only 6 1/2 weeks, they are onto something grand. With good food, live music on the veranda, wicker seating scattered around the front and side porches, a friendly staff, and the ambiance and scenery to beat all, it's a 'not-to-be-missed' spot for our dining choices.

Just head south on A1A until you pass Cap's and see The Reef on your left -- immediately on the right is Euclid Avenue - turn right and go to the end. You'll see Aunt Kate's, proudly outlined in the sky!

Hungry?

TRULY CLASS ESTATE SALE!

A little heads-up to those shoppers and estate sale individuals out there!!!!!

A little birdie told me that this estate sale, listed on craigslist.com and being held in Ponte Vedra, is going to be awesome. Check it out!

http://jacksonville.craigslist.org/gms/1136726035.html

An Awesome Deal!

VERO BEACH

Last year, Frank and I enjoyed this new boutique hotel in Vero Beach. What an awesome experience and so close to home! It is the new hotel of Gloria Estefan's, with great shopping and restaurants right across the street.

Here is the view from the pool with the ocean just a dive away! Also, yea, that's my hunk of a husband!

The surf and shore mingle with style and sophistication awaiting you for the most exquisite beachfront getaway. We swam in the pool while we looked out into the ocean just steps away. Nothing like it!

Check out the special package they are offering! Shall we join you?

It is soooo worth it! Will we see you there?

877-562-9919 costadeste.com
3244 OCEAN DRIVE VERO BEACH, FLORIDA .

NOT FOR ADULTS ONLY!

Yesterday, I learned something new about Authors and Book Signings. They aren't for adults only!

We were invited by our grandkids to join them at a book signing at the Town's Center Barnes & Noble by their favorite author -- Mary Pope Osbourne!


With their books in hand and smiles of excitement on their faces, they were herded around the aisles, around the service desk, out the doors, down the street, around the corner, and finally to the end of the line to wait their turn with their number safely around their wrist. After 2 1/2 hours of anticipation, they were finally next in line!

As they approached Mary for their photo and signing, she glanced down at them and exclaimed, 'Oh my goodness, it's little Jack and Annie!" Jack and Annie are the characters from her book who are a brother and sister and a year and half apart, just like our grandchildren, Alex and Savannah! Together, they go on adventures in a magic treehouse. How interesting!


With Magic Treehouse in hand, and everyone happy, they knew the wait had been worth it. What a momentous occasion for these 500+ young readers. Now, they await the upcoming musical and curl up to read their new books.


To see all of Mary Pope Osbourne's books and upcoming events, visit her website at http://www.marypopeosborne.com/.


Keep Reading Little Ones!