Friday, July 1, 2011

What Color Do You Hear?

Take a box of crayons


or a child's stick of chalk


crank up your favorite music



and listen with your 

EYES.


What colors do you hear?


SYNESTHESIA

  is the 

MAGIC  

that happens in the brain

when one type of stimulus

such as a certain color 



produces a secondary 

sensation 

such as a specific smell 



or taste sensation.




so LISTEN 

and COLOR in

the MUSIC.



Does the deep, rich sound of the cello
LOOK like a CHOCOLATE BROWNIE?
PAINT IT.


Do the light tunes of your youth 

bring sweet memories to your palate?


COLOR IT!


Do the sophisticated sounds of your 

maturity 

look like 

a Paris fashion statement?


get out the water colours and 

MAKE IT HAPPEN.

What would the chaotic order of JAZZ look like

or would Chopin's NOCTURNE evoke the sparkle of 

moonlight?


Bring out the GLITTER.

Could Stravinsky's EXPLOSIVE

THE RITE OF SPRING


inspire 

you 

to produce your next masterpiece on that intimidating

empty canvas or page?
 
 If you 

simply can't fathom the layers of 

possibility

source


THEN STRETCH YOUR IMAGINATION


because




Photo credits:
The beautiful former dancer and choreographer Twyla Tharp at age 70 via pinterest



137 comments:

claudia b said...

i actually have synesthesia - letters are associated with colors, pain has different colors as well.

"Create Beauty" said...

Very inspiring, associating colors with music, tasting, all of our senses working together as we create and live in this beautiful world.

And..... besides the aqua coat in your previous post, may I have this yellow one too? sigh....

Such beauty.

Love you!
~ Violet

Designs on 47th Street said...

Such GORGEOUS, GORGEOUS pictures of colors!! Wow!

Donna

Sarah said...

Bravo! You continually amaze me with your creative mind. Absolutely adore this post, Anita. ~ Sarah

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

What a wonderful inspiring post and yes, colours do conjure up all sorts of sensations in our lives.
I would love to dance away in the beautiful turquoise gown.
I love the glitter and the rock candy, I want to take a bite.
Hope that you have a wonderful weekend

Hugs
Carolyn

Maria said...

This is soooo inspiring Anita!
I am overwhelmed by this post!
I love all your amazing insights to the mind, heart and soul of art ~ the way God made our brains ~ our senses and the breath of His Spirit in it all~

Thank you for taking the time to inspire us and to teach us in vivid colors of your own!
Have a Fourth of July filled with JOY
~Maria

Seawashed said...

I am painting...the quiet, gentle, fragil, delicate and faded beauty I seek and feel in my soul. I'm letting it flow out of me onto the paper through the water, paint, and brush. And it is satisfying. You always inspire me dearest. ox

Christel said...

When imagining the beautiful baritone sounds of the cello, I pictured a brown leather sofa..I LOVED this post, as much as any you have ever written..so thought provoking, and imaginative!!! you are magnificent my dear friend! XOXO Much Love, Christel..tehee wasn't Rattus' post hilarious?..loved it too!

Sharon said...

I am a teacher. Every morning I would greet my fourth graders at the door. They would know it was time to start lessons when this song would come on...it touches a very special spot in my soul. Thank you for choosing it to accompany your art. Blessings.

Palomasea said...

Anita Dear!
Oh my goodness, what insight, beauty, and inspiration! I await your weekly masterpieces with great anticipation, and this one is just thrilling. I am inspired to listen, to HEAR, and express...thank you for infusing my life with such joy!
Amazing images and words, they way you put it all together is truly breathtaking.
Bises,
Irina

Victoria Sayer said...

Anita! Hi...it's me. I have finally just come up for air, only to find that I have missed at least one of your blog posts. Life just gets way too busy.
This is a wonderful combination of text and photos, as usual. You know I have never really stopped to think about the association between colours and thoughts. Music...yes. But colours....hmmm now you have got me thinking.
Sorry to have been a bit absent lately. It's just that sometimes I feel like shouting, "Stop the world! I want to get off!" (at least for a little while anyway)and need to catch my breath.
Love to you,
~Vicki
ps...I love that tablecloth in your header.

Simplement ... said...

Merci de me faire voir la vie en technicolor !
Très beau week-end chère Anita.
Gros bisous
Marie-Ange

Champagne Macarons said...

Beautiful post! As I was reading, I nodded in agreement to everything you wrote. Only a few moments ago, I was writing ideas for sketches I plan to draw this weekend.
It was a terribly hot day here as well. I spent the day running errands, dealing with my car issues and then took the kids and a friend to a theme park once it cooled off a bit this evening... now I hope to draw a bit.
Wishing you a lovely 4th of July weekend! xoxo, B

Champagne Macarons said...

I forgot to mention that Caron is only sold in their boutiques. If you speak to Diane at the NYC store, she is lovely and sends out samples. You can tell her that I referred you. You can visit their website.. the goose down puffs are my favourite and they come in a rainbow of colours!! xoxo, B

Christmas-etc... said...

What an absolutely beautiful way to start a Saturday morning in the summer!!
You've done it again Anita... done it again!
Blessings dear lady!
Ann

YONKS said...

Wow, I'm SYNESTHESIATING like crazy right now! Totally inspiring from a genius mind.
I am blown away by your inspirational post Anita.
Bless YOU!
Dianne
XOXO

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

BONJOUR!!!
yep, I am back.. I LOVE this post.. So full of inspiration and beautiful images..
Yes, la couleur de vos rêves cher ami. This is what I shall do with the help of Bebe.
Merci cher ami for just being you!
Bonne nuit
Penny

mudderbear said...

This is such a fascinating idea to ponder. I will no doubt be wondering about this all week. Thank you again for sharing your amazing talents here. Have a happy, joyful weekend. love, Rosalie

It's me said...

Wowwwwwwwwwww......great post ...i love it !!...........may i used the last one in a post sometimes????....and are they from pinterest???...enjoy a happy weekend darling...............love love love and more love...xxx...bisous .....xxx.....my dear friend from far away...i go to our shop now it is late !!...love Ria...xxx...

fee @ chipper nelly said...

so inspired by this post - I can feel your exuberence!
Quit with the beautiful coats though - they distract me so....
fee x

Julie@beingRUBY said...

Fabulous inspiration today Anita...
Got to love someone who can embrace and love colour!! I know it makes my life fuller and I'd be lost without it ... lately i'm 'hearing' pink.. but your post has me smelling sherbet of the aqua and lemon!! fabulous.. almost as good as eating it!!

Have a lovely weekend and lovely 4th July celebration.. ciao xxx Julie

Unknown said...

sweetpie how lovely and what delightful images .I love to swim in colour and let itcompletely enfold me as in my boudoir and my sitting room . In clothes i tend to wear one main colour and be wrapped up in it and for years at the hospital the watchword was THINK PINK. thankyou for such a lovely staurday morning adventure lots of Love Fay xxx

Só Sedas said...

Dear Anita,

Beautiful and inspiring post as always but I think this time was special because I love this song and paint is one of my favourites activities. I have much more synesthesia within feellings and tastes (sometimes sounds too) and not so much with smells but for me, colours are everything!

Thank you so much for your post. Have a very special weekend!

francis said...

I wanted to write you a quote about colours EN FRANCAIS .....
Have been looking and searching on the internet ...getting more and more grrrrrrrrrrrr.... Absolutely NOT what your beautiful post today brought me ...JOY HAPPINESS PEACE
INSPIRATION ....
So ...NO beautiful words in french . Must go search for my schooldictionaries ....
The sun is shining and I am having a wonderful time making the SURPRISE-giveaway-box .... So much fun to surprise some-one on 07-07-2011. happy weekend for you !

The Dutchess said...

WOW..NITA..I LOVE THIS POST...xoxo

Deana Sidney said...

So perfectly said and shown. Debussy was inspired by Turner (but then who wasn't?) and you can feel it in his music. Sometimes the strongest inspiration comes from outside the box... colors and tastes, scent and sound... they all feed us. I've been reading that everything that comes into the brain gets translated so that we own it –– sort of write it into a movie we can understand... without that, perception is a chaotic jumble. So in a way we do make our own world... might as well make it a glorious one!!!

erin's art and gardens said...

i can not tell you how much my music effects the colors and feelings in my paintings, decor, photography, clothing, food, etc.... whether it is the tunes i am listening to, or the sweet birds singing outside my window it is all intwined. the color is the music and the music is the color. and i would be lost with out them......

such a beautiful post, anita and i must say, that quote at the beginning really resonates with me.....as i am a survivor.

happy weekend to you, my dear.

erin
xxoo

Rattus Scribus said...

Dear Anita

Your writing is poetic, colorful and inspiring. I positively love this post because I too feel like an adult-child survivor who is trying to create something meaningful with sights and sounds, smells and touch, memories and reflection.

You put this so well.
Love
Ruben

Susan said...

My granddaughter, Olivia and I spend a lot of time painting with watercolors. I think I enjoy it even more than she does! "And I think to myself, what a wonderful world~oh yeah!" Beautiful and inspiring post, my friend!
Blessings!

Olga Durón said...

i absolutely loved your post. You have given me all the colors of the rainbow - in feelings - if that makes any sense?!? Thanks,

~Olga
http://olgaduron.blogspot.com/

Woolytales Miniatures said...

Nita, what would have been of us if God made the world black and white, I often ask my self? I am (((SO))) happy that HE didn't and it is because HE is the Greatest artist of all!

So very lovely post!!!*grin*

Country Wings in Phoenix said...

Good Morning Anita Sweetie...
What a gorgeous share this morning. I love seeing the color. I believe your color is teal. How pretty it is.

I love painting my brownie, have wonderful, I had no idea I could do that.

Now you know that red is my color. I feel it in everything that I do on a daily basis. I even painted the dining room wall, yes 1 of them I did for accent, and wish I had done so sooner, it is SO me. Love it.

Thank you for allowing me to stretch, taste, and see my color within. I had such a wonderful visit sweet one. I hope that you and Ruben have a wonderful 4th of July weekend planned. I know whatever you will be doing, you will be sharing fireworks somewhere. Many hugs and much love from Phoenix sweetie, Love, Sherry

Sandra van Doorn said...

oh that was an amazing post... filled with the colors of happiness. I loved it thanks for sharing

Judith said...

Dear Anita you so caught me up in the music of the sea & its different colours...I am so in awe of the beauty & the way it captures the strings of the heart in the way you write...Thank you for another delicious post.hugsOOOOxxx Ida xxx

Judith said...

Dear Anita you so caught me up in the music of the sea & its different colours...I am so in awe of the beauty & the way it captures the strings of the heart in the way you write...Thank you for another delicious post.hugsOOOOxxx Ida xxx

koralee said...

Love love love your magical post today my sweet friend. Perfect for me as I am such a COLOUR girl...I live for colour in my world.
Such yummy images once again.

Guess what? Our sun is out today...yahooo...off to treat my girls to a shopping day...two of them have birthdays in a few days and so we must shop shop shop...we want to look good for California..on my list is a new bathing suit and comfy but stylish shoes. Wish me luck especially in the bathing suit department.

Hugs of joy to you.

karen - Simply Inspired said...

inspiration perfection, anita! thank you! i think i will take a box of crayons & paper to this year's 4th of July festivity - color bursts in sky and in me captured on paper...love it! bless you! -xok.

Jacqueline said...

I not only think in purple, pink, red and turquoise, but I dream in colors too! Love this post. My friend is actually a friend with the girl who did the rainbow cake. I am going to have to do one of those sometime.

Wish I had ever been that flexible - didn't come in my genes!

The rhinestones on the cake were actually rhinestones, non-edible, so they removed them before serving!

Unknown said...

Hi sweetie just doing Twylers exerecises !! JOKE gosh it got to you quickly they are in the service so waiting for next coverage sorry they are such bad images but here dress looks so elegant but i hope she smiles soon ! RENE Flemming is my favourite feamle ioera singer she shEAVENLY mmmm apresto fay xx

Cindy Swanson said...

What an amazing post! I love all the pictures--the yellow coat!--and what's better than a brand-new box of Crayola crayons with lovely sharp points!

Your theme reminded me of a song by Chris Rice, "Smell the Color 9":

Cause I can sniff, I can see, and I can count up pretty high;
but these faculties aren't getting me any closer to the sky,
but my heart of faith keeps poundin' so I know I'm doin' fine but sometimes findin you is just like tryin to smell the color nine.
Smell the color nine...


Oh, and clicking on your blog to be greeted by "What a Wonderful World"? Sheer heaven.

Cindy @Notes in the Key of Life

Anonymous said...

this was the most amazing post i read for today...it makes me smile, it brings tears...i love it
thank you for bringing this joy!
BEAR HUGS
~victoria~

Anne said...

Cool post, Anita! I have synesthesia; mine is the most common type with numbers, letters, and days of the week having specific colors. Its been the same since i can remember. I also get a rather odd manifestation where inanimate objects take on personalities. I talked about this with a synesthesia researcher and he says this happens, i'm not nuts!

Martina said...

Dearest, now, that's a post for me - for you know how much i love color! Such amazing pix again Anita, and so much work and care you've pu into this. I admire Twyla Sharp, and - OMG, that yellow coat is so gorgeous!!! Let's color our lives beautiful! xoxooxox

Deborah said...

Colour can bring such happiness..aqua brings a calming to me, and lime always speaks of summer.
Beautiful post and images adorable!!!
Happy weekend my darling friend xoxoxo

Deborah xoxo

Rae said...

This is just what I needed! I so as I leave this comment....I'm getting out my "Watercolors" !!!
Much love and happy 4th!!

Kerri said...

Hi Anita, I always like to visit your blog. Love all the colors in this post. My eyes were drawn to aqua even though my favorite color is pink! I just posted my new paintings, been busy being creative... so fun! Check them out when you get a chance!

Thanks for the sweet comments and have a wonderful 4th of July weekend!

xoxoxo

Kerri

Val said...

Gorgeous! I just found your blog from over at Carolyn's (Little Bear Studio), and I love it. 'Will look around more later. :)

Red Rose Alley said...

Hello Anita,
I absolutely loved this post! It's so colorful and unique. I like everything about it - in fact, I wanted to tell you that we put your pretty blog on the side bar on our blog so everyone can get a chance to see all the creativity you have to offer. Me and my daughters always try to see the beauty in the world, and you my friend, are beatiful.

~Sheri at Red Rose Alley

millefeuilles said...

I am totally stunned by the beautiful photographs; your colour schemes and subject matter are AmAzInG! This is the first time I have visited your blog and I have promptly added you to my blog list.

Wikipedia has a 'List of people with synesthesia'. It is fascinating. I didn't know, for example, that Tori Amos has it and she describes chord progression as the best kaleidoscope ever.

Peeters Liliane said...

How I love that song of Louis Armstrong,it fits well in this post! It gives me goose bumps when I read your post and hear this music. Every time I ame in awe how you can make a post with lots of magic and glitter!!! You are a master in MAGIC !!!
Hugs,
Liliane

Unknown said...

Anita, sweet, this post is my favorite from all yours! Be sure! I DO relate colors to moments, people, objects, flavors, drinks,...I DO! My day by day is all colored by me, I know it!! How amazing intelligence you have, you come out with the best always!!!! Love Love it!!!
My day today, by the way, is gray.
Love you!!
Bela

Privet and Holly said...

One of my most
favorite of your
posts, ever, Anita!
And I think "painting"
can be a metaphor for
whatever creative
endeavor speaks to one's
soul. I love this
song, too!! Thank you
for all if. You are
such a gift, my friend.
Happy Fourth of July : )
xx Suzanne

My Grama's Soul said...

Oh sweet Anita......You have just given me a RAINBOW!!!

Thanks for this....happy 4th to you and Reuben,

Jo

Unknown said...

Yes, dear Anita, we are living in autumn around here. Gray, our autumn ranges between gray and brown. We live in a very very humid city and autumn always comes carrying Miss Rain in his suitcase...so that the temperature gets a little colder than usual. Yet, our city is in a valley, what makes humidity more present.
We woke up today listening to the rain drops knocking on the lots of glass panes we have in our house. Our home is always clear and bright, we love it!
Well, I am occupying my mind with Aila´s birthday party which will happen in August. She is turning 3 on Aug 23rd but her party will happen on Aug 13th. She wants a Little Red Riding Hood party. I am trying hard to prepare a nice party for her.
Well, I must say, dear Anita, it is so hard to find time to sew, to take care of our home, to be mommy, wife, take part of the production of a magazine,.....affff.....:o)))
But I must say, as well, I am HUGE happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aila is asking me to prepare her morning fruit...here I go!!
Love writing to you, sweet!
Bela

Anonymous said...

Anita, everything brings to mind a chocolate brownie for me, much to my dismay... hee hee. I love your inspiring posts and I always try to run over here on the weekends because I know you post then. Fifty students? Whoa! Two of my own kids were enough. I think, (no I KNOW), if I had 50 students I would excuse myself to go to the "ladies room," but would really run to the parking lot and peel out of there like the wind! God bless you for being that special person that can inspire kids. xo

Unknown said...

Dear Color Dreamer,

Now! Imagine that! When you take out the color crayon box and start to dream in color I'm right there with you! You color my world so happy! I picked the teal crayon and I was so happy your images started to come to life before me and you stayed within the lines! Wink, wink and blink, blink!

My favorite picture is that cake! Ha! You take the cake! Speaking of taking the cake, you might want to hear what I have to say about my Natural Bent in life. Go to Auntie Jacquelines blog and hear me give a little rant that leads to forgiveness.

I needed some color in my world this morning. Last week I joined a prayer team and all hell started to break loose! It was a horrible week with several huge events happening.

Pass the spoon please and I'll eat the cake. I want to be the dish that ran away with the spoon this morning. Good thing is, the week is behind me. NEXT!

C'est moi Claudette said...

What a wonderful world indeed Anita. Mr. Louis Armstrong sings this song with such heart. LOVE IT.
My box of crayons is getting more vibrant every day.
Mom is progressing nicely, but still hard on her little body, the sun is shining, it's a beautiful summer day with lot's of humidity : )
We had a lovely July 1st celebration with my mom being here (*that was a challenge) and my sister and BIL.
It is a wonderful world right now.
LOVE this post my dear friend. YOU ALWAYS MAKE MY DAY BRIGHTER.
I love you
xoxoxoxoxoxo

~*~ saskia ~*~ said...

Ma plus chere amie, here I come scrolling dow feeling all inspired after gasping at your gorgeous pictures and soaking in your well chosen words.
I must float into blog land more often, have been away from my laptop a lot lately as I do not find the patience to get inspired and lift up by looking at a couple of my favorite blogs. Well, how stupid is that? It felt good typing these words here in your incredibly lovely little corner so now I can act to them.
How was your walk sur la mer? Hmm, I believe I just typed on the sea. Did you have a memorable morning the other day, Anita? Sending hugs for a lovely Sunday too o xx o xx o

desde my ventana said...

Colors, sounds, smells and beautiful images .... a wonderful inspiration across our senses. Thank you for this stimulant post thats illuminates my sunday
I hope you are spending a wonderful weekend.

Hugs

Cecilia

Peeters Liliane said...

Hello lovely Anita,
Thank you for your visit it is always a plessure when you visit me!
Thursday was my last school day :)) Do the happy dance ;))
But I've been busy my husband was in the hospital for one week with a nasty infection on his legs. He is still at home and he must take antibiotics for the infection.
Now it's my turn to take care of him.
I've finished a new fairy, I hope by the end of the week to make pictures of her so I can put these one on my blog. I think you will like her :)And I started a new one!!!
Thank you for asking I feel back to normal I'm been reborn :))
Hugs,
Liliane

Burlap Luxe said...

Anita, this post is beautiful, it reaches deep into ones soul.
How is your life canvas coming along?? I can't wait to see the life you colored into that beautiful room you added into your life of color.

I have been living with a life of color not noticed by most, it goes un-noticed unless it is brought up, lighter shades of pale moves me these day into a place of peace.

Have a beautiful 4th Red, White, and Blue colored day!

xoxo
Dore

Martina said...

Anita, so good to hear that weather over at your place shows a friendly face now! Here, it was not so warm but nice enough to have tea outside, which we did, with a lovely friend who came along with homebaked cake! I intended to do much more, but didn't really - maybe my body thought it's time to relax! Am dwelling in your images once more - rocj candy sounds intersting ;) Bonne nuit! xx

Queen Of The Armchair aka Dzintra Stitcheries said...

Oh Anita I am seeing all sorts of colours now...An absolutely magical post...and I think I will now be seeing colour all day...Wishing you a colourful week...Dzintra

Unknown said...

A beautiful post Anita. Color, a favorite topic. Wishing you a happy 4th of July weekend.

Karen

Palomasea said...

Chere Amie,
A quick Salut, and a big Merci for visiting Mme. Sand! I began reading her works in college as well, and I've been smitten ever since. Her writing takes me to the most beautiful, romantic realm. She was such a trailblazer, marched to her own drummer, and strongly believed in social justice. Thank you again!
Bises...

"Create Beauty" said...

Just had to come back for some COLOR and to hear Louis sing!

Absolutely delightful!

Did you have a fun day today?!?

~ Violet

Christel said...

Dear Anita, I just had to come again and read this post. I really love it, and wanted to reply to your message. Yes, I did have my surgery, and the implant is doing well, My eyesight is still improving daily, and I am beginning to sculpt again. Thank you so much for your message, and this thought provoking post! XOXOX Christel

Cheryl said...

Every time I visit your blog I am lost in a sea of beauty. Thank you for that. It keeps me coming back~

A Tale of Two Cities said...

I'm late in commenting, but we've been traveling, and I always save your blog posts to savor on my big screen computer. The color of your photos this time are absolutely inspiring--thanks for spreading rainbow joy through all you do.

Today I'm coloring red, white and blue--Happy Fourth of July to you...

Cheryl said...

Anita,
Thanks for stopping by... it seems we were neighbors at one time. I grew up in Topsfield, MA!!!

Susan said...

Wishing you a happy 4th. Any plans?
I will go to visit my mom and then make a potato salad to go with hot dogs and burgers for whoever shows up. My youngest daughter had her annual Independence Day party on Saturday. But it is warm and we have a pool so I expect some of my kids will come by. Low key. Relaxing...
May your day be delightful, dear one!
Blessings!

koralee said...

Morning joys to you my sweet friend....and happy July 4th!! What big plans do you have today? A parade...fireworks?

It is our packing day...not house stuff but holiday stuff...we are off to California soon.
Please forgive me if I do not visit for the next week or so....will catch up when I return. I have a few automatic posts that will go up so you can still visit me.

Extra Hugs of love to you for the next few weeks. xoxoxoox

francis said...

T
H
A
N
K
*
Y
O
U
*
S
O
*
M
U
C
H
*
The dreamcasttle has arrived safely
Amazing beautiful Anita .
I am loving it so so much !
All the best for you

Pamela Terry and Edward said...

Such a magnificent, inspiring post. I'll carry it with me all day.

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

THANK YOU for coming to visit Bebe in Belgium. You always leave me with such happiness in my heart with your kind thoughts.. So you like the music?
Enjoy your day dear one
Gosh, how I LOVE this post!
Bisous,
Penny

Grenadine said...

Toutes ces photos et ces couleurs sont sublimes, les gourmandises bien tententes, puis quand je vois ces jolies filles en talons aiguilles et juppes serrées, je me dis que c'est bien frustrant, de toujours faire attention à sa ligne lol.
Bises, bonne soirée.

Martina said...

Anita, thank you for your kind words today - i'm so glad you feel inspired by my post and by Beatrix! Yes, so great to learn from other artists and have a look at the way they do things! New fuel for inspiration is so needed sometimes. Hope you have much fun writing and drawing these days - am sure you do - and think of you! xoxoxox

The enchanted home said...

Wow this might be my favorite post of yours yet. I love the quote how God giving us a coloring book and the crayons and its up to us what we do with it, how much of a masterpiece we want to create (or not) Mine is a "work in progress" but believe me I am still coloring fast and furious! Since I am a kid at heart, I see the world in a wide range of gorgeous soft pastels.......all beautiful!
Thanks Anita, this was fabulous!!!
Happy July 4th-

Fete et Fleur said...

Yes! Dear Anita,

I can see it . . . beautiful post as always my sister.

Nancy

Dumbwit Tellher said...

Hi Anita; There are only a handful of 'things' that I can't see living without, and some of those being, color, music and imagination. You had me with color with each carefully chosen photo and then my imagination took off from there! Your blog is always like a vacation from reality and I appreciate it so and you.
I hope your 4th was just as colorful, happy and special?
Lots of love to you and Ruben,
xx Deb

http://bitsandpieces-sonja.blogspot.com/ said...

These pictures and the challenge of your words are more of the very special magic that god has gifted you with my friend. He has given you the ability to inspire and make people dream. What a gift! I am completely enthralled one more time. I keep wondering how you can possibly top this one. Then I remember that your gift is from God, and He is never going to run out of ideas to fill your heart and your pen... :)

xo

Bonnie said...

When I was going thru my illness, it's amazing how color affects you. I avoided red at all costs!

How are you? How are you and Ruben spending your summer?

Happy 4th dear Anita,

xoxoxo, Bonnie

Jacqueline said...

Here is the source for the rainbow cake. She is a friend of a friend and was picked up by Martha Stewart because of this photo.
http://www.whisk-kid.com/2009/08/say-it-with-cake.html

Dawne Boynton Polis said...

Yes, dear lady, you have created a piece of Godly inspiration with this post! I love the way you take a truth and illustrate so perfectly, and wrap it all up with the loveliest words. You are certainly gifted from above, and are so sweet and generous to share your gift with us! As a former art teacher, all of this resonates with me so strongly. I shall come back to this post again...and again.
Happy...5th of July?
XO Dawne

pamkennison said...

What an inspiring page, will be back to visit again.

Regards

Pam

Poppies and Sunshine said...

Hello dear Anita! And happy 4th of July (or what is left of it now!). Once again your post speaks to me so much! This has so much inspiration in it, I'm still soaking it all in. I love the idea of music, or really anything around us, evoking a different representation in each of us, whether it is color or glitter or whatever it may be!
I spent a lot of the weekend painting. I'm really trying to exercise my creative muscles! Whenever I paint, I listen to music and sometimes I paint whatever the music inspires me to paint. Other times, I already have an idea, but music helps a creative environment I believe.
How was your weekend? Have you been watercoloring more at all? I hope you had a wonderful holiday weekend! I just got back from watching fireworks at the lake. I feel so exhausted...it's time for bed! But first, one more look at this post! Love it!
xoxo, Shawna

highheeledlife said...

Bonjour Mon Ami Anita! Beautiful inspiring photos as always ... but the message within this post reached out and touched me... the brain is a marvelous thing, they way it brings memories by association, the way it helps increase one sense if another is not working to its full potential. And the way it resets and restructures functionality of messages it sends.

Wishing you a wonderful week !!xo HHL

koralee said...

We are off my sweet friend....joy x100...I will be thinking of you!

Happy day. xoxo

Christie Jones Ray said...

My goodness, dearest!! This very idea needed to be acknowledged!! As I was painting my hutch this weekend...I remembered each time I had painted it over the years...when I was expecting Cale in 1986, it was milk paint in a country shade of blue...country music by the judds was a favorite at the time...in the early 90's I was listening to Vivaldi's four seasons and painting it a wonderful shade of blue green, for it was spring! I could hear the color of that music! But I had never thought to acknowledge that sensory revelation!! You my dear, are brilliant, beyond comprehension...do you know this??? And how wonderful that Ruben is enchanted with you and your writing, at such a deep level!!
I painted the hutch out on the screened porch..as the sun was setting...thus, the peachy pink hue for the inner part of the cabinet...the lightening bugs flickering and the mourning doves singing...pure white on the outer edges of the hutch as I finished under the light of the moon and the porch lights...
Creative souls notice these things...don't we??
Thank you for sharing such an enlightening moment with us, my dearest friend.
I have missed you over these hectic days of holidays and company and family visits and antiquing and nesting;))
I will look forward to some chatting, dearest!
Bisous,
Christie

George The Lad said...

Pizza delivering squrrels in deed lol!! The Cheek of it bol!!!
Sorry I got side tracked, I'm sooo behind this week all I can see is my tail!!!
Did you know that us dogs can only see blue and yellow, thats what the internet says, I don't know any different! but my smell is very good.
This is a very intresting post with beautiful photos, if only you could get smells though the laptop. As for music and colour mom says she see's red when dad plays for to long, thats a colour I cannot see :(
Her face go's a funny shade of brown sometimes lol!!!
I must go, I'm getting behind again!!
Love and hugs to you all and a Happy belated 4th of July.
Have a good week
See Yea George xxx

Angelsdoor * Penny said...

You are soooooo sweet!
Thank you for visiting Bebe this morning..
Have a wonderful day dear friend!
Bisous,
Penny

Nancy said...

It's so nice to meet you......As I have visited your blog I feel as though I have fallen into that special dream state of total beauty and inspiration......What a gift you have been given to be able to marry your pictures and words so beautifully.........

Gorgeous blog....

Mariette's Back to Basics said...

Dearest Anita,

Lovely photos that speak alone a story and your poetic thoughts made for a nice escape.
Congrats on having YOUR photo on the Belle Inspiration, July/August issue!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lots of love,

Mariette

hi-d said...

Lovely post. Color is such a powerful thing. I saw a show years ago on people who had synesthesia. It is quite interesting...they must be the few that are using more than the small amount of brain power that the norm uses.

Hope you have a lovely week!
hi-d

A Magical Whimsy said...

Ahhh! Anita
I love coming here to your blog...you inspire me to finish a couple of my novels I have in the rough draft form. Life is busy all of the time, there will always be interruptions, but in between the interruptions there is a space we need to make for ourselves to be creative. The color aqua is such a provocative color...it sends sensations of me flying through the air on the wind. I have flying dreams at times and it is such bliss!
Thank you for freeing my mind, and soul today to progress to upper levels of fantasy thinking, because that is where my mind needs to be when I write.
Sweet dreams my dear lady,
Teresa in California

Arti said...

Wow! Wow! Wow! You are a genius Anita. Your posts marvel me no end!! The flow of words and the supplementary pics just like music and colors! Soothing to mind and soul... Always go from here learning something.
Have a fabulous week ahead friend:)

francis said...

You are a true Fairy Anita ......
scattering so many kind words all around the world . their echoes ARE TRULY endless ...just as mother Theresa told us.
My friend Leontien has a second house ....in France . She is there now and we email each day . She is replacing cabinets , painting doors and hanging shelfs ...all by herself . I am busy finishing my Surprise-give-away ...tomorrow I will know where to send it .
fingers crossed !

Barbara said...

Beautiful thoughts and ideas, Anita, as always. Your colors and photos are a delight. Whether sight, smell or taste, color is such an important part of our lives. And yes, music has color. Music is my joy. I can tell it's yours as well.
Hope you had a lovely holiday!

Ann said...

Another inspiring post from you...

I can just imagine how your mind and heart is overflowing with sweet inspirations and lovely thoughts that you just can't help but share with us... Thanks for being such a generous soul through your blog you inspire us so much ♥

jerilanders said...

I love it when a certain scent brings on a visual memory of some past pleasure or event. How marvelous that our senses are so intertwined. I must confess, that the chocolate in the photos definitely brings a secondary sense into play! Yummmm!!


WOW, that Twila certainly inspires one to stay fit!!

jerilanders said...

Anita, And now I am 101! I have been so busy with art shows, shuffling between finishing up the new book AND a few art projects, that I haven't had a minute to do a post or visit any blogs. Not to mention, my laptop crashed , so I am on husbands computer. It is going to be a long busy summer, my garden needs weeding and the critters have run amuck! WHEW! I wish there were two of me right now, just to keep up the slack.
I hope you are enjoying time out of school in your garden and with your pencils and paints!

YONKS said...

Hello sweetie,
A king in the genes, I knew there was something regal about you!
What's a tag, whatever it is I don't think I have one?
Have a cheerful day!
Di
XOXO

GwendolynKay said...

Ahhhh... the colors of my mind are serine blue and crisp white, a little yellow mixed in with chocolate , wine, , those are the colors I hear. :)
Gwenny

Draffin Bears said...

Dear Anita,

Hope that you are having a lovely holiday, dear friend and doing all the things you love.
Oh wouldn't that be neat to be able to be like Twyla Tharp at 70 - amazing!

Have fun painting, writing and relaxing
Hugs
Carolyn

Unknown said...

Today I am picking the cinnamon red hot crayon and I'm going to color outside the lines until my spirit settles down and I can forgive! A little spice in life is good to get out of your system!

I will email you tomorrow, I may even send you a letter, better yet!!!

Love you, have a snuggle down evening with that super hero of yours.

wendy said...

WOW...look at your girl and all you over 100 comments.
Look at all the people whose lives your brighten...YELLOW.
Yellow is one of my favorite!! colors.
It reminds me of warmth, happy, the wild flowers Buffaloe Beans that grow iin the country, surprises.........
I love All the colors actually, as each one in and of itself evokes a different feeling and memory.
I mean, where would a rainbow be WITHOUT all the colors....colors combined make for beauty.
Kinda like people....we don't have to all BE the same, THINK the same, BELIEVE the same....but if we allow all OUR colors to blend, what a glorious world that would be.
Think on THAT beauty.
NOW............
In regards to the death of my son (which consumes a lot of my thoughts these days) I still see some gray and dark shadows...but, once my heart opens a little more, the light will be so bright!!!, it will be HARD to discern what THAT color is exactly.
I'll work toward, and wait for that.

wendy said...

ha ha...how stupid, that first sentence, I had the YOU and YOUR words backwards.
what color is stupid??

June said...

Anita sweet, your post just thrill me to pieces!!! I feel as though I could achieve anything after reading them. You really are an inspiration to so many of us dearest!!! You bless me and I am thankful.
snding hugs from here...

Wendy said...

Gorgeous, beautiful, your writing flows lavender. I'm on a Painting Through My Life kick-- more than a kick, I hope. There is nothing like creating what you feel and see.
{Love} the quote at the top of the blog, too!

Denise said...

I draw ,color or paint almost every day ever since all my kids have left the house.Last one left six years ago.It makes me so happy. Dusty lavender makes me swoon,Teal next,together they make me rejoice.

Maria said...

Hi Anita {I'm up too late... a night owl on Texas time ~ C'est dangereux!}
Just stopping by to tell you that I love your comments on Martina's blog about art!
*Happy Thursday to you*
~Maria

chateaudelille said...

Dearest Anita, this year Im finding my students constantly amaze me with their creativity in Art and writing and so I enjoy so much just watching what they produce. I just have to inspire them !Fiona

Mapi said...

Oh yes Anita, I am going to give my life the most beautiful colors there will be !
Thanks again for your ever so sweet comments to my blog.
Enjoy a lovely colorful day !
Mapi

jade said...

What a wonderful post - you always colour my life, my sweet Anita!!!!! I enjoy it sooo much, to visit you.....great pictures, words full of love, and i looooooove the music and your header......everything is magic!!!!! Thank you sooooooo much for all and have a wonderful summer day, kisses from Sheila ;)),

Hugs Jade

Ruthie Redden said...

A fascinating post. i remember reading a book many years ago about a woodworker with synesthesia, (though i cant remember its name!) it intrigues me the different way in which the world is experienced. My mr o, as a musician "hears" the world, as an artist i "see" first and foremost. Stunning images too.

Greet Lefèvre said...

Hi sweetie,
How are you? I wanted to drop by and say hello!! Wonderful colorful post!Yes it is up to us to color our days with the most beautiful colors!
xx
Greet

jade said...

Oh Anita, you are sooooo funny :)))) - you don´t need an extra-blog for your pictures, they will be soooooo beautiful.....i´m looking forward to see them!!!!

Hugs Jade

Martina said...

Hi sweet Anita, how's your day today? Here, it looks like rain, damp, warm and cloudy. Reading your post again, i remmeber that my sons piano teacher sees notes as colors - interesting! And my hubby, as a child, saw numbers as colors.Enjoy your time! xx

francis said...

Reading what Martina wrote suddenly made me remember ....
There are people who see colours for the days . For example thursday is always green and that's very normal for them.
I cannot even imagen how that must be.......
Did you take a look on the blog of Rodica who won my surprise ?
She makes such adorable houses ....
I always admire the creative ladies so much .
I will tell you what the SURPRISE was but not now . The package just left my house and is waiting in the postoffice for the mailman to get on its way .......to FRANCE .
Who would have thought that ? !
On tv each afternoon is THE TOUR DE FRANCE . Men on race-bycicles That is not why I watch...... The camera shows the envierement and it is like traveling through France ...... Beautiful . So many casttles .....
have a cosy thursday sweet friend

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I have a new box of watercolor pencils that I need to get out and play with today! Thanks for inspiring me to start! ♥

Rebecca Nelson said...

Anita....

I just had to tell you that I am a creative adult today because of the little girl within me that survived.

Your post touched me today. Thank you.

Love, Rebecca

scrapbookertink said...

Wow, its like therapy by blog, loving it x

Bring Pretty Back said...

I KNOW when I cone here to visit you I will be dazzled... you never ever disapoint. GORGEOUS and what I needed today as my mind has been a little dark the last few days. It was perfect for me , thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Have a PRETTY day!
Kristin

Julie@beingRUBY said...

HI Dear Anita
Me again.. just wanted to say thanks for the kind comments.. sadly though those photos aren't mine.. I wish!!! I actually haven't been to Brittany.. maybe one day... Thanks again and have a lovely weekend.. ciao xxx Julie

~CC Catherine said...

Anita, Inspiring post as usual! I love each and every thought evoking word...and the colors are magnifico!!! Thanks for the chat today ~ as always, it was lovely to take a moment and enjoy sharing heart to heart about our writing, life's journey, and just getting to know one another better. You are PRECIOUS in His sight Ms. Anita, and SO SO loved by many who come to visit you often, including "moi"! Thank you for sharing YOUR gifts with us by pen...you paint a marvelous canvas with that ink! ;) Hugs to you from a GA peach! ;)

Champagne Macarons said...

Bonjour mon ami! Stopping by to wish you a lovely weekend.. I hope it's full of sunshine, flowers, adventure and beauty. xoxo, B

victorian parlor II said...

What a fun post!!! I will never be able to hear the cello again without thinking of chocolate and getting hungry:).

Blessings,

Kim

Rosie said...

Oh Dearest,
I am rather LATE to the PARTY...but...huff...puff...I am HERE at last. Oh and a party for the senses it truly is. I can't begin to tell you how many times I will "marry" the scense. You are quite brilliant...ah, but we knew that :)
WHAT A FABULOUS, THOUGHT PROVOKING POST.
Oh to be able to get together with other kindreds, just to sit around and take in the wonderful girl talk around the table.
And a link to do a virtual tour of YOUR gorgeous castle...I CAN NOT WAIT. Your snappies WILL be just perfect.


OH MY THIS COMMENT HAS TAKEN ALMOST THREE HOUR TO COMPLETE. Our sweet pup just took an emergency trip to the vet. So after 1 exray, 1 abdominal exam, 1 shot of pain medication, 1 blood test...we now know that she was stung by a bee...OH MY!!!!! that was a costly trip. But all is well now and we are home again.
And you are painting, with none other that white and gray...oh be still my heart...ahhhh. It will be so beautiful to be sure.
YES THAT QUOTE IS A GIFT IN IT SELF. It is so important to remember that not only do we have to be able to recognize the task He has provided, BUT HAVE THE COURAGE TO SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY...no matter how frightened and intimidated we are.
Off to supper. HAVE A GREAT EVENING...and I'll see you in the morning...Rosie

Poppies and Sunshine said...

Just popping by to say hello!! I am so glad to hear that you had a great 4th of July! It is kind of hard to believe a weekend is already upon us again!
Do you have any fun plans for the weekend? I am helping put together a baby shower and a friend is visiting from out of town, so it should be a nice one.
How is your writing coming along? I would love to know!
Have a beautiful day, dear Anita!
xoxo!

YONKS said...

Hello Anita,
My beautiful castle came today. THANK YOU Sooooooo much. I am totally in love. It will be photographed for my next blog later today.
You are a dream friend!
With Love
Dianne
XOXO

Sylvia said...

I can't find the words to express how much I love your posts .I can't imagine the world without colors.Wishing you a colourful day.
Love , Sylvia

Marie Söderberg said...

Inspiring...I wonder what my color will be..?..I will do this *test* I do think pink most of the times..without any music //Marie

Rosie said...

Oh dearest friend,
You Do know what makes my heart go pitter patter...Ahhh...outside in the garden with a pencil in hand. GOD'S GLORIOUS ARTWORK ALL AROUND, TO INSPIRE.Yes this is what DREAMY summer days are made of...In August I have a cabin booked for a week...THEN I will put a pencil between my fingers and let my imagination soar.
Today I picked up a couple of new wholesalers, so was pleased with that. Tomorrow I MUST clean, shine and spread a wee bit of white paint...a good day it will be.
Well, I am going to TRY to get a NEW post up tonight, so will bid you a fine evening and a glorious garden day...farewell sweetness...R

Seawashed said...

Anita we are blogging sisters are we not? You know I was out and about the other day and in a stressful situation and what helped me to calm down was I popped on to some of your blogs on my Blackberry and immediately knew all would be okay. I can hardly see a thing on my blackberry but to see your lovely images made me remember all was beautiful in the world. How truly thankful I am that you are here and my friend! ox Kerrie

Jennifer said...

I am so balanced by colors - no oranges or yellows for me - I can smile at daffodils or poppies, sunsets but blues or greens....love, soothe me, passion, peace. Jenn

Kirsten Steen said...

Such an interesting concept! Synesthesia is also what some are saying we most need in our evolutionary jump time right now. Great idea to make it an artistic exercise! How I do enjoy these photos.
Kirsten

Anonymous said...

Interesting, as not many people know what synesthesia is. I have it, but not with colors. Numbers and letter have hierarchical relationships. I know. Odd. Always been that way for me, don't know it it came about, which is one of synesthesia's characteristics ~ the person has no recall when it developed. Funny. Beautiful post. Have a lovely day ~ Alexandra