womensmexicoretreat2009

A Saturday of Artists Just Being & G'bye-ing

2009-05-30T18:59:00.000-07:00

I did rise early to do my ritual yoga, by myself, in the quietude of my room. It seems to carry an eerie echo knowing there was to be none of my peers to share it with. Around 9am friendly, familiar faces began arriving thru Damaris and my front door. Hurrah, we were all back together!

We wandered the kitchen, gazing at the ingredients in the refrigerator, considering breakfast - when - our marvelous Lena offered to make us all German Pancakes!!! Oh grief, "YES! Please" we all chime in! So we sit in big soft chair/sofa things and chatter, yelling questions and compliments to our graceful chef (here she is curtsying to our comments). One by one, the yummy light pancakes arrive on our plates and some become heavier with jam etc. and other possible condiment-al (is there really a word like that?) additions. We all pitch in to clean up and it feels like a warm family, reunited.

We all have left our art supplies all over the work table so we just pick up where we left of the day before. There are pages that need caught up, paintings that need assistance and additional objects that still need inserting. Lots to do - and we all nestle in to our work/play places and focus. Lovingly, laughingly we all meander from one another's work place to the other commenting, complimenting, suggesting - just enjoying the camaraderie and trust that has built up over the past five days. One of us comments, it's like an artists' community that one of us has dreamed of for a future somewhere. It's a wistful lil dream that floats into the air.

Somewhere in the day, someone of us comments they want to go look at ceramic ware mentioned by Baldo just a walk up the street - I chime in, "I'll come along" and soon, all, save for the immersed Dorian slide into walkin' shoes and head out.

The colorful storefront previews the variety of works offered to us. Some of us make purchases and befriend Diana, actually Baldo's sister, who is running the shop. She offers to show us her home just at the top of the hill, again, just up the street. And . . . we're off on another adventure.

As we follow Diana thru the streets, she explains how her father (or was it her grandfather?) had scooped up a good portion of the land when it was offered free for the taking. Apparently the Mexican government was anxious to form more villages and this one strung up - with lots of Diana's relatives owing or running many of the businesses. Her Uncle, who runs a construction supply business, has helped build this new home for Diana and her family. It's new, colorful, breezy and refreshing.

She tours us thru her cozy place, where fascinating elements of unique Mexican culture cascade every corner. In the kitchen area we see a gallon size plastic bag full of dried hibiscus flowers (used in teas), a beautifully carved squash and from one of the bedrooms she beams with pride when she pulls a beautifully painted portrait of her grandparents and shows it to us appreciative artists. The close knit Mexican family is evident everywhere. Not to mention the openness Diana has illustrated is bringing in four total strangers into her home. It truly opened my heart just witnessing it.

We do need to keep track of time as three of the ladies are flying out today on the late afternoon flight, leaving at 4:45pm. We have an appointment with Fidel who is picking everyone up and he arrives on time. As you can see from the photo, he's overjoyed at the extra beer we have left in the refrigerator and offer it to him - contingent upon him waiting to drink it 'til after he drops all three ladies at the airport. He laughs!!! Fidel proves to be a good sport, willing to take one last photo of us all before we disperse to our various homes. I still don't know if I'm sad or tired - and you can witness it on my face.

Later that evening, Bonnie and I got out for a light salad dinner and long walk along the beach. Bonnie is staying an additional week, traveling north to a smaller village to spend the week painting. We review the week, laugh and also tour thru Bonnie's online portfolio. It's a quiet closing to a full, delightful week.

This my be the final post on this blogsite - or not. There will be updates making mentions of upcoming retreats and classes. And - possible follow-up news on the travels and doings of the five fabulous women included here: Dorian, Damaris, Bonnie, Lena and myself, Elaine. Again, Amazing Universe, thank you for this opportunity to grow, trust and leap.

My suggestion . . . go ahead and take that leap!

Day Five ~ Last Day of the Retreat

2009-05-23T17:15:00.000-07:00

The day began beautiful again. 7:30am Yoga on the rooftop patio, a total of four of us are there to say the final "Sun Salute" to the Manzanillo morning sunrise. Several of us sit in meditation following . . . to center for this wonderful day.

Following breakfast, we gather at the big dining room table at 9am for a final mandala exercise and then, review of all the mandala pieces we'd created. This piece was based upon totems and "I am" work . . . very intriguing. Each design, placement and animal so were an extension of each one of us individuals at this time in our lives. At the review, we generally agreed that mandalas will now become a more regular part of our creative process and be used for self examination. A couple ladies swore they were "in love" with the circle now.

I take the floor next, to lead the way with an "Emotion Vignette" exercise. I've heard tale of such a thing before and most recently used it for expressing a very volatile situation I was experiencing in my life - with not alot of outlets, save for my painting it. It proved to be very satisfying and I've since talked to artist friends who have used this same process to process situations. Finding it a very valuable tool, especially for journaling where we can't always find words to express our feelings, this painting tool is invaluable! We all choose a topic that was "charged" for us and went to work with paint, magazine tearings (be they images or words), glue and found objects (I went outside, hunting for a feather, to symbolize "freedom" but instead, found lil seeds that represented the seed that grew into freedom). The results were quite expressive and powerful.

Here is my piece. It was around a situation where I'd had expectations of someone and was disappointed with what that person was willing to share. I found it created a big knot feeling in my stomach, and other images of reaching out with no one being there to meet me. In this process of creating, I realized it was the expectation that I had to let go of to find freedom. So with "faith'", "reaching across" the knot I'd felt, I found the "seeds to my own release". Anyway, this exercise worked AGAIN for me.

We break for lunch and for working on our individual journal entries. Some munch on our remaining Mexican food from Maria's delicious preparation or head out to the pool for a dip and some sunshine.

Our afternoon is filled with review of each participants work and comments on how they felt about the journaling process as well as filling out the retreat critique sheet we had passed out earlier. Some commented they were surprised at the amount of work they had actually done but, overall, we were all pretty "wow-ed" by each artists output. Three of the participants were relatively new to watercolor and felt they'd had some success in learning basic techniques. Bonnie still hates the bumps on the "cold press" watercolor paper. Sorry Bonnie :) We also worked up our individual "3 x 5 Card" process . . . a sweet, positive exercise that enables each participant to take home "a vision/insight" of themselves when seen thru eyes other than our own.

Our last retreat dinner together was just caddy-corner from us at the Tenisol Restaurant. It's a nice outdoor venue, with a gurgling fountain and nearby swim up bar. One of the things I noticed was that now, at this point, we all know and trust one another. The conversation was interesting and, some questions we pose one another each other, are pretty intimate. And beautifully, in saw the answers were - honest! For me the food became in material, my soul was so fed!

After dinner we meander the grounds, actually getting lost in the bowels of the condos, having to back tract to get out, but eventually trot down toward the beach and little market.

It's awkward this ending thing, to be honest, my brain seems to have completely blanked out what we did that final evening together. I'm not surprised, I've never been know for graceful g'byes. Somehow knowing we'd all meet and be together for the morning blurred the finality of this fifth and ending day of the Women's Mexico Retreat 2009.

Day 4 ~ Morning Work & Travel North to Barra De Navidad

2009-05-16T15:33:00.000-07:00

Just another day breaking on the rooftop for yoga, followed with a playful breakfast and then onto work on our morning Mandala Exercise. Our assignment today was to work with five basic shapes, the square, the triangle, the cross, the spiral and the circle. All the shapes have a variety of meanings as well as do the position, dominance and integration of shapes. Again, the

resulting designs fascinate me, just visually, not to mention the diversity of personality & consciousness revealed. We all examine and discuss the diversity and invention displayed with the use of something so simple as an elegant circle. But, we must leave this scene (don't worry we didn't have to clean up the "process area") and pack for a day trip.

At 12 noon, our driver, Baldo, arrives with the SUV and all of us, with our painting supplies & beach necessities in our packs, step into our carriage to Barra de Navidad. Baldo is an informative, comical and charmingly warm guide. We pose questions for him from his personal history to politics to local fruit as he drives past banana plantations, roadside markets and artist sculptures.

He asks us if we'd like to tour the church at Cihautan, a city founded and dominated by women. How could us women say "no"? So we take a short side stop and he assures us it's "ok" to take photos and wander freely in this lovely sacred space.

After about a 30 minute ride, we reach Barra and finally find a parking place. Town is packed as it's Market Day here.

Our first design is to find that place with the colorful tablecloths (grief, where was THAT?) for a light lunch. After s-o-m-e wanderings (where we strolled shops with "finds" like this wall hanging), we locate the outdoor cafe and settle in for lunch. We continue to be entertained, first with Lena getting her next "Young Coconut", then the cafe owner's beautiful and mischievous son. Isn't he adorable? We finish lunch (very good, too much tho) and head to the beach.

Sketching and relaxing is our whole agenda for the afternoon. I show the ladies who want to a few quick sketching techniques I like to use in places where people don't hold still: contour drawing and gesture sketching. I'm not pleased by the contour drawing and eventually bury a potion of it with a watercolor sketch of the beach and peninsula. I love that I don't have to keep my journal perfect - I can correct or work over an area. Nobody to please but me!!

How quickly the afternoon passes and our wonderful Baldo has gotten us situated on the beach just below the restaurant, "The Sea Master" where we'd planned on going for dinner. It sits right on the beach but, since it's gotten rather windy, we'd settled inside. The colorful room was lively and got even more personal as we were serenaded by a local wandering minstrel. Dinner was yummy and it was all too soon that Baldo had gone to get the vehicle to transport us back to Manzanillo.

Our drive back to our condo is quiet, especially after our Baldo's mood saddened, finding out one of his friends was buried last week after a fatal head-on collision. The sun was setting and darkness fell over the landscape leaving a pink-orange horizon.

For our final "talking stick" meeting, we got to hear Dorian's travels across life. We'd all shared now and it set in place a very special bond ... all of us knowing such honest and personal experiences and viewpoints of oneanother. It was with some sadness that we all finish sipping our decaf-coffee from Dorian's French Press, leaving footfalls along our routes.

It was a memorable day with a hint of bittersweet. I'm realizing tomorrow is our final day of the Retreat and I'm not wanting it to end. But life continues ... and I've harvested some amazing lessons from this time and these very special women.

April 15 ~ Wednesday at the Beach

2009-05-14T15:27:00.000-07:00

Following quiet yoga, we finish our breakfast and all pack up for a day at the La Bonita Beach, just at the north end of the bay. Morning is cool with a grey mist hovering over the scenery. We silently watch to day waking activities going on around us like these fisherman who also seem to bring in food for the birds. I fall in love with the still boats harbored just out from us coupled with an old pier that served as a morning roost for pelicans.

As the sun began to break thru, more activity, families, and entertainment came our way. Our Lena discovered they offered "Young Coconuts" just like she reminisced where she was raised. A sweet smile covered her face. All round us complete families, from infants to Grama crowded tables around us. One table behind us was making everything from scratch. We took peeks as they made "limeade" from freshly squeezed limes and chopped cilantro for a salsa later in the day. Oh, what a divine aroma to smell wafting thru the beach air. The Mango Man saunters by us too offering treats (doesn't he have the most beautiful native features?) and also a percussion expert. The drummer, who's traveling set was composed with 3-1 lb. coffee cans, empty and inverted, along with square sticks, was totally into his element as he sang and danced. I also work up a sketch for Dorian and Bonnie who were interested in seeing Watercolor Pencils at work. Although they offer great portability and flexibility, I find it difficult to take values to the extreme dark that I often like to work with. So I eventually take to my watercolors to finish off the very dark areas in the shadows.

We are scheduled to head back to the Condo for another demo and it's application, "Making Your Own Stamps". Several choose beach umbrellas as the simple image for creating their stamp. And pages bordered with happy, multi-colored umbrellas begin to fill the journals.

Need for dinner lurks in our empty stomachs and soon we head down to the nearby "Oasis Restaurant" on the beach just two blocks away. After all the luscious and large dinner we've been indulging in, I opt for a crisp green salad and am quite refreshed with my choice.

Our evening coffee and "talking stick" share, with Lena as our focus tonight, takes place back at the Sierra Madra complex. Things have gradually and graciously quieted down in the neighborhood as the Easter Weekend get farther and farther from us. Again, we are intrigued and amazed at the various travels of our peers who have traversed so many different places and so many different experiences to be sitting in front of us as beautiful, generous and lovely human spirits ... with so much to offer.

We all return to our beds feeling blessed for who we are and for those surrounding us.

April 14 ~ 2nd Full Retreat Day

2009-05-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

Morning Yoga began my day with a couple of ladies to accompany me on the lovely sunrise rooftop. After our group breakfast effort, we nest into the large dining table to launch into our morning Mandala Exercise with Damaris. We focused on our own hands and energy with we felt in and or around them, positioning them on our black paper - and began.

Again, very intriguing how differently we all perceived and received our visions. Here is the diverse results in beautiful mandala format!

My presentation followed with a presentation around Right/Left Brain Hemispheres. We all took part in an exercise drawing a line drawing of a man - upside down - so as not to view the object with a "image in mind". You can see the result I got from the exercise in my previous entry on the full page layout, top, far right side of my journal page. It's such a freeing feeling working totally from our Right Brain Hemisphere - if - we can stay there! I also took time just before lunch break, to demonstrate a way I've invented to add Watercolor pages which you can insert right into the spiral binding. I'm always feeling like there's room for more pages in the watercolor journals I've purchased. This allows me to add 5-6 pages or pop in other shapes cut out of paper. Hurrah!

After our lunch we trekked off on an adventure to the main "Centro" of Manzanillo. On the local bus, it's about a 45 minute ride, passing alot of local color including a sophisticated Soccer Stadium and Manzanillo Port (one of the biggest on the west coast).

Arriving in Downtown "Centro" we walked past the square fountains and meander towards the large blue sailfish, for which fishermen know Manzanillo well! Passing thru some local vendor stalls we watch the work of this lovely native woman embroidering the wares she sells. We sampled a few refreshments and, of course, bought a few items to take home with us and wander back towards our bus stop.

About two thirds of the way back to Club Santiago, we hop of to cross the busy street and relax into a delicious (for me, probably the best we had the whole week!) at La Toscana Restaurant! We amble thru the main dining room onto the wide sunset lite patio, overlooking the beach. Our entertainment encompasses kids rolling in the sand, lovers strolling hand in hand, and joggers out for a before-dinner-run. Bonnie is near estacy watching the colors dance upon the waters - and - is only silenced by dinner arriving. Mine was a moist, delicate Sea Bass with a Mango/Ginger Sauce. "Ohh's" and "ahh's" echo over our meal. Pretty content, and with dessert "to go" in hand, we board the local bus, ready for our last leg of travel to get back to the condo. About half way along our route, a pair of young men board the bus, painted in marvelous mime faces, red clown noses and comical outfits. Probably a brother team, we venture, proceed to prod, tease, converse and entertain (including a pale blue balloon pony twisted out of a long balloon) the crowd. Unfortunately we couldn't understand a word, only their funny, playful gestures and smiles from the passengers. Many stops later, after passing a hat for their efforts, the wave adieu and bound off the bus. Only in Mexico, I think - what a joy!

We arrive over to Puesta Del Sol Condos to break out our desserts and nest in for our "talking stick" session with Bonnie sharing tonight. Weary from our outing today, the three of us not staying at Puesta Del Sol spill out into the lovey, near full moon night to weave thru the Menorca Condos. It's a cozy night feeling with the swimming pool lit up, people on the wifi connections under the large thatched patio and families giggled and converse over deck gatherings.

We turn in, grateful for a day showing us how a culture different than us Americans live. Glad to be alive.

April 13 ~ Retreat Full Day One

2009-05-03T19:04:00.000-07:00

I was up early to complete my meditation & yoga before readying the rooftop for the Retreat Early Morning Yoga. The sunrise was quiet, gentle as we completed the "Sun Salute" with deep breathing and dedication to the total newness of this experience. A GOOD day is born!Once downstairs, we have an hour to conjure up coffee, tea and some favorite shape of breakfast. Several arrive late for yoga, confused by their condo clocks that had not been turned ahead to the Daylight Saving Time, now in effect. But we giggle over food and position around the big dining room table for the coming presentations.

Damaris will be beginning the mornings (while we are still hopefully, in the left side of our sleepy brains) with a sampling of Mandala information and exercises. Following a brief history of Mandalas, she leads us through a Maori Mandala. Quite fascinating, seeing how, when given the exact same instructions, everyone creates a VERY different image.

I take over next, briefly going over the "whys" and "what" of journaling and then move into a quick tour thru drawing basics, perspective, and color wheels. As you can see from my journal page, we all did a simple watercolor color wheel. Also, to give a demo of how watercolor frisket works, I head up to the rooftop patio to sketch the "banana slug" yellow Menorca Condo roofline, just across from us. Everyone else breaks off to work on their own sketches and reheat some of Maria delicious left-overs from last night's "Welcome Dinner", for lunch. I travel around answering questions and adding suggestions where needed. All participants worked with such dedication, it was inspiring.

Following the break, we meet back at the big dining room table for more demos and around 5:30 we gather ourselves for a long leisurely walk all the way down the beach, crossing over the lagoon bridge to enjoy dinner at "Playa Real". As we cross the bridge, we pause to take photos of the Azaleas now in full bloom and capture a beautiful Mexico family, taking photos of their 'grama' too.

After a playful dinner, we treck back to the condo in preparation of our evening "Talking Stick" time. Tonight is Damaris turn to relate her experiences around how her life has affected her creative process. We are finding what a treasure it is to learn more intimately about one another, seeing the amazing journeys we all have taken to get us to where we are now.

It's late when we break up, heading to our respective beds with visions of another day of artist's play dancing in our heads.

April 12 ~ Everyone Arrives & Welcome Dinner

2009-04-29T21:09:00.000-07:00

This is Easter and I'm up with the sunrise - excited - my Women's Mexico Retreat begins this evening!! Damaris and I leisurely discuss and go over our curriculum, filling in any holes and answering last minute questions we may have for one another. All feels like it's in order.

Around noon I take a break and enjoy a swim and some sun, soon everyone would be arriving and the "Welcome Dinner" will be in the making. I've finally gotten hold of Maria, our caterer, and she sounds concerned, stuck in traffic. Both Damaris and I sit in waiting, she reading, me, catching up on my journal. I love how all concerns disappear when I take to my journal pages.

Our agreed to time of arrival for Maria of 3pm, comes and passes. Finally around 4pm she and her assistant arrive and bustle into the kitchen, preparing our meal. I continue writing in my journal, but I'm keenly aware of the heavenly, varied smells that have begun filling the air. Maria is making everything from scratch. I recognize the aroma of roasting chilies, which she peels. All in the making of the 3 salsas to go with our chips and guacamole. My eyes sting slightly, while mouth waters in anticipation. Maria is at home in the kitchen!

I start paying closer attention to my watch, realizing the remaining two participants are arriving any moment. Damaris travels over to the participants condo with the extra key to let in Bonnie. When we find Bonnie, she lets us know Lena, who is staying in a small, private studio condo, is being guided to her lodging by our trusty Real Estate gentleman.

Everyone converges just after 5pm and Maria begins serving the appetizers. The salsas are fresh, distinctive and marvelous. To freshen our palette, we are served fresh Horchada and then , move into the large table. Maria continues to garner rave reviews for our dinner of Chile Rellenos, Chicken Enchiladas, Black Beans and Salad. By dinner's end we are cozy with conversation and stuffed food. All of us request an opportunity to take a full moon walk down to the beach before we have room for dessert.

For dessert, we sit at the outdoor patio table and savor the lime pie/cake with luscious wafers floating thru the soft layers. Damaris and I have planned the introduction to the Native American "Talking Stick" in preparation to creating our very own Retreat's Talking Stick to be used each evening when one of us will talk briefly in response to the question, "How has personal growth effected your creative process". Each of us has brought with us a small item, representing what feeling or value we'd like to bring to the gathering. It's comical, all of us attempting to use the wax gun but, finally we're done. This first evening, I chose to share, breaking the ice for being honest, intimate and trusting. After my share, comments are relative and understanding. We are beginning to weave a lovely tapestry together.

Finally, we deliver all ladies to their comfy nests, and Damaris and I return to quietly retire to our comfortable condo. I'm pleased to see the relationships of loving, kind women feeling at ease and playful in this very special retreat. Sweet gratitude lullabies me to sleep.

April 11 ~ Wild Taxi & Venue Tours

2009-04-28T19:12:00.000-07:00

I'd woken to the lovely Mexico full moon and was ready for what the day held in store for me. When I'd learned the condo I so loved, where I would be staying, had been sold to a Canadian couple, I knew I'd best check out other options if I wanted to repeat this retreat in the future. Just last night I'd spoken to Jim (of Jim & Bev Woods, the Real Estate couple who'd helped me secure my participants condo) and he had several potential future venue possibilities for future retreats he wanted to show me. We'd agreed he'd pick me up at 9am. Because of Holy Week the local beaches and an campground were filling up fast. As we drove farther south towards Manzanillo Centro, Jim warned me that the two lane highway would soon be turned into a one-way headed south. All northbound traffic would be detoured east, up into the curvey, arid mountain areas. Y-i-i-i-k-e-s, I'm thinkin'!!!! We visit 3-4 condos and one house, all nice but, I'm favoring a location less in the hub-bub of the city. As agreed, Jim drops me at Walmart (sorry, I will not shop there in the US but, I feel more secure shopping there for my Gringo needs) where I get fruit, yogurt, and breakfast makings. Hurriedly I zip out to catch my cab to travel back north to Club Santiago. But alas, the two way highway is NOW one way south, and my cabby turns up, up, up into the mountains. Zing, zip, whirl - around corners as we pass other cars!! I'm hanging on to my bananas, praying for safe delivery back to my condo. Laughing at my silly fears, he drops me at my door (and my bananas ARE unbruised)!

I take a lil' break down to the pool and hot Mexico sun (purrrr), grab a lil' lunch and call Jim to pick me up for the remainder of the tour. This time we are headed north, away from the busy city hub.

First, we go to a place known as "Casa de Animalias", a home known for the owner who used to have a collection of animals on site - but - I'm renaming it "The Castle"! There are two houses on site, one the "Castle" and another, a smaller "Mexican Casita". The big house is amazing, luxurious, spacious, elegant and beautiful, with 5 bdrooms. Jim suggests we could hire in a caterer for all meals, bring in a Mariachi Band for entertainment and never leave the grounds. I've just started to drool. We move on down on the property to see the "Mexican Casita" with it's 3 bdrooms and warm embrace. Notice the gorgeous floors! Also, available are 2 small private casitas for individuals.

Then, we traversed down to the gardens, swim up bar and swimming pool with a bridge - all to dream about. Honestly, it reminded me of the Hearst Castle! There also was a trail leading down to a secluded beach.

This beach is shared with the next potential retreat venue, Vida. There were 3 condos, some with 2 bdrooms, others with single bedrooms and a large windowed room where classes could be held. The grounds are soothing, rolling and offer peaceful views of surrounding areas while removed from the bustle of town. This venue felt like it had some possibilities too.

The tour came to an end around 3pm, just in time for my arrival back to the condo and greet two arrivals for my soon to happen retreat. Both my co-instructor, Damaris and one early participant, Dorian happen on the scene around 5:30pm. A bit frazzeled from the long plane flights (some beginning around 5am) and then, the taxi drive into Club Santiago.

We get everyone settled and gather momentum for dinner, just down the block, overlooking the beach at the Oasis Restaurant. There's lots of lively music and chatter from the beach activity around us and we chose a table quietly centered on the deck. Conversation is low key and my friends segway into a more relaxed mode. The view and company is relaxed yet anticipatory. Inside, I feel an excitement. A momentum of the exciting coming days of the Retreat is churning, even at this leisurely perspective.

We all turn in early, anxious to see what tomorrow brings.

April 10-11 ~ Travel to Manzanillo & First WakeUp

2009-04-27T14:40:00.001-07:00

I'd been woken by my lil beeping alarm clock. No one else would have been getting me up at 2am! I'd wanted time to do my meditation and yoga, to be as centered as I could be for my 7am airplane takeoff. I had leisurely time to finalize my packing and arrived at the airport with comfortable time.

My hubby & I toured the new Medford International Airport, poking and inspecting displays. We took the hint when the guard came over asking what we were doing. Ok, it was time for me to go thru Security. A difficult g'bye, but adventure on the other side. I ran into a woman, long time friend of a mutual artist friend and I pocked a note to deliver when I got back home. I could see the Universe already at work on this trip.

Usual things on plane rides, drinks, peanuts, etc. and wait for my plane change in L.A. went quickly as I bought some more Pecos for my stay in Mexico.

The flight to Manzanillo had an excited energy about it. Lots of people en route to vacation or family reunions (remember, this is Mexico's Holy Week too). The young Mexican mother behind me, with her young child, was crying and an American woman consoled her that the flight was easy and the Manzanillo Airport small and simple to traverse. She quieted down. The lil live-wire sitting next to me was another story. Stu, a spunky, say, 11-yr-old with bright yellow bleached hair topping his brown hair, talked almost endlessly. He was going on Spring Vacation with his family and was so jazzed. In response to his mild, but consistent hint, wanting to sit in my window seat, I gave in. He relished that for awhile - til his Dad, now next to me, put in a movie on his computer. Then, Stu wanted his original seat back. And on and on - I was entertained until our landing in Manzanillo.

Airport routine moved along rather quickly, and although I had hit the random button, with the signal coming up "RED" (which means they search your luggage), it went smoothly and I was moved into a taxi. The air conditioning method in many a Mexican Taxi is "open windows" and as I was buffeted by the warm wind, I realized the lil kitchen timer I'd brought with me (to help me not loose track of teaching periods) had gotten moved out of it's protective position in my luggage. And it was going off every few seconds, "beep, beep, beep" all the drive into Club Santiago, a 20-30 minute drive. I smiled.

I got all settled into the open, sunny Condo. Trotted down the street to the nearby market to get some water and breakfast food and settled in for the night. I spent much of the evening setting up the condo for the Retreat. I moved some overstuffed chairs to make a cozy gathering place in the living room. And to my delight, discovered a presentation easel in the Guest Bedroom that I could use for a drawing & presentation easel. It was late when I got to bed after talking with Roland to let him know I'd arrived safe.

I'd experienced a sampling of Mexican holidays last year when we were here. And since this very weekend is the high point (Easter) of the Mexican Holy Week, I wasn't at all surprised to hear the festivities going on late into the night. Around 5am people began getting into their cars and heading home.

So, it was a brief nights sleep, but I'd planned to get up early anyway, to check out the sunrise and temperature on the rooftop for our planned Morning Yoga. I peeked my head out the sliding patio doors, only to see this magnificent day break sight, the moon, full in it's golden orb, glowing over the night lite brilliant yellow condos across from me. I loved the pinks and reds posing as shadow edges and the tinge of orange and green around the moon. I had to grab the camera to capture it (I sure wasn't going to get a sketch done before the sun came up!).

So here I am, awake for my first full day in Mexico setting up for the Women's Retreat! I'm fresh, invigorated (not from sleep tho) and off on my adventure. Stay tuned for the next entry . . .

April 10-11 ~ Travel Day & First Wakeup in Mexico

2009-04-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

This adventure has been a year in the planning. Birthed from a dream I've gestated for nearly 10 years, I am NOW making my dreams come true (hint,hint: you can do it too!). I'd mentioned to a friend, who I'd watched grow thru the pain in her life to graduating with a professional degree in counseling, doing a tandem workshop. Finally, all these years later, with both of us having much experience in our fields under our belts, we undertook

Back Home!!!!

2009-04-25T10:55:00.001-07:00

How can I tell you all how much fun we had?!?!?!?! This intimate, warm, and playful group embraced everything that came our way with such grace, understanding, maturity and harmony I can't help but know it was a divine plot.

There was this delicate interweaving of spirits that took place too, which was fascinating to watch. By no design of mine, these ladies discovered mutual interests, needs, compassions and information exchanges that were magical - or - was it mystical?

Anyway, this is just a short entry to let you know we all had a fine time and have arrived back to our respective homes (save for our Bonnie, the 'Extended Adventurer') who planned an extra week farther north in Mexico for a solitary painting experience. We are already talking about a similar but, transformed retreat happening next year. Anyone interested?

I'll be posting our adventures on a day-to-day format so those who could not attend this time, may have a vicarious Retreat.

Good to be home from a unforgettable holiday. Thanks again, to all you amazing women of the "Talking Stick".

One Week to the Day!

2009-04-03T10:54:00.000-07:00

As you can tell from my image, I'm madly, exited-ly packing for the Women's Mexico Retreat!!! It's just one week today for when I hop on the plane and head to Club Santiago, in Manzanillo, Mexico. Well, actually I will get to send some time in the beautiful Los Angeles airport with my plane change. But I'm avoiding thinking about that. The time in L.A. will hopefully give me the opportunity to get more Pecos and start the beginning entries in my journal for this amazing trip.

I'm doing my "palette packing" a whole week early because it is the smartest way to travel with wet pigments (tube paints). As you can see in the second shot here, I'm squeezing fresh paint into my palette and allowing it to completely dry before I carry it on the airplane in my carry-on luggage. I'm trusting, as before, that once my pigments are dry and hard they will not be viewed as a possible liquid carry-on. I also am taking partially full tubes of my paints to squeeze out samples for my participants should they want to try different pigments than what they brought. I'm plastic zip-lock bagging each individual tube then, bagging those, all in another plastic zip-lock bag. Yep, double bagging - it's worth it not to have it spill out all over my clothing! So this is time consuming, but worthwhile.

Not only am I honored and blessed to be teaching this terrific group of women but w-a-a-a-a-y-y-y-y thrilled at the synergy that will be magically/mystically be weaving around the six of us. My co-instructor, Damaris, and I have plotted some introductory projects that will provide some beautiful revelations and some sweet openness that opportunities harmony and closeness. I can't wait.

So, if any of you ladies out there are aching for an escape from the prolonged Winter (like the one we're experiencing here in Southern Oregon - it's going to go down to 28 degrees tonight!!!) there is still the opportunity to join us. IF you hurry! Contact me via email or phone (note contacts in sidebar) and I can get you in quickly.

Come join us in the experience of a lifetime - and certainly a unique experience that won't be ever replicated (did I mention the Condo where I'm hosting the Retreat is now SOLD and won't be available for us next year?).

Only 2 (yes, that's "two") Spots Remaining

2009-02-20T10:40:00.001-08:00

Ok, all you "cabin-fever" effected ladies, it's time to toss in the towel and sign up for the two remaining "beds with palettes" slots in the Women's Mexico Retreat.

I'm so excited that we have women from different states, different walks of life, different ages, and different perspectives attending! The mix of talents and experiences will provide a whole other dimension to the group. I can't wait to see the variety and creativity expressing in all those journal entries. All you already signed up are in for a treat.

I traveled down to the Bay Area last weekend to continue plotting with my friend and co-instructor, Damaris. We clarified each of our schedules and I got to preview some of Damaris' plans. Her mandala projects are a sampling of approaches that will present dynamically on the black paper she has us working on.

Things are still developing: I'm still considering a few venues for our outdoor sketching (would you prefer a park with fruit trees, a view over a lagoon or an active family beach scene, like the one here?) Also, I'm chewing on (no pun intended) a restaurant for our final evening together - would you like to walk to repeat an inexpensive, favorite place or take a chauffeured adventure to a more scenic overlook with more expensive tastes?

You could vote for your preference IF you join us all who are signed up! Just email me at: elainefrenett@live.com - we'd love to add you to the roster!

Air Fares at Record Lows + Pepper Steak

2009-01-22T14:23:00.000-08:00

I'm so exited to let anyone know who may be hesitating on joining us on this playful, educational, and inspirational Retreat - NOW - is the time to book your Air Fares. My husband, with some disappointment in his voice (because I booked my Air Fare in June paying $600 round trip), that he'd found the same flight with the same airline (Horizon/Alaska Airlines) in our local newspaper for, (are you ready, sitting down?) $189 each way. That's total $378!!! With a savings of $222. This is West Coast flights but, I can bet you ALL your airfares are at record lows. A great time to hop onboard.

Just to tease you who have culinary leanings . . . there is quite a wide spectrum. One of the afternoon/evening trip we will be taking will take us to Manzanillo Centro, pictured here. You may laugh, but I have to tell you, "Stay Away from Chinese food there!". But moving to more local offerings, you will be presented with plenty of sites offering regular Mexican food. The "street chicken" (my name) just thrilled my fellow traveler, Mike, last April. As for me, I was savoring the brilliant paint job and the palette it suggested! By the way, the chicken was "quite good" Mike noted! As for my favorite place to eat, unchallanged it was "Restaurant Maya" http://www.restaurantmaya.com/ . I won't apologize for it not being authentic local fare because it was such amazing quality and variety. Here you can see my husband's, prepared to perfection, "Pepper Steak".

Yes, this is the place we will be visiting Thursday evening when we travel north to Barra and then, Malaque. I'm telling you - this trip and the food is NOT TO BE MISSED!

Hope you sign up if you are considering - a great winter getaway and a venture into getting to know yourself better while playing at it.

1/28/09 UPDATE: I was just contacted by Restaurant Maya concerning our dining reservations. It seems they are going to be opening a NEW additional restaurant farther north (hurrah for them!). They are uncertain of their leaving & closing date for Restaurant Maya. She will keep me posted - and so will I on this possible change of plans. We'd hope not to have to consider another wonderful restaurant to replace Restaurant Maya ... we'll go with the flow!

Deadline Approaching for Shared Condo

2009-01-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

How exciting - 8 days and counting - 'til the registration deadline of February 30 (if you plan to lodge in our shared condo). If you intend to book your own lodging, we can talk about a later registration date. So do get in touch with me!

We have just a few openings left for our retreat. I'm encouraging you to hop in quickly as it will ensure you a stronger chance of getting the room you request AND (since I just spoke to Fredrico, of our tour to Barra on Thursday) just one more lady confirmed will give us a larger, more comfortable vehicle for our trip north.

Another location I'm planning for one of our day's plein air sketching (still to be confirmed) is this lovely hotel and their grounds just at the north end of our bay above the lagoon. It offers wonderful views over and into the bay and distant Manzanillo Centro yet, is withdrawn from the bustle and play on the beach below.

Rolling green hills with sculpted bushes and colorful flowers enhance the grounds. I spend plenty of time after dinner photographing the flowers and variegated leaves lining the pathways there.

And, oh yes, we will be having dinner there. The atmosphere is relaxed yet, clean. I especially loved the waiter who so willing took our photos and teased us about the fabulous dessert they offered. It was a special Mexican Flan made from the milk of little iguanas. I was near tears when he did the motion mimicking milking the teeny iguana! Anyway, here is the large restaurant, thatched roof and inviting open sides.

I can't wait to share it with you ladies!!! So if you are hesitating for any reason, this is going to be an adventure, an education as well as a self-discovery and group bonding experience. Come join us for the ride!

Firming Up Our Thursday Day Trip/Dinner

2008-12-16T10:35:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited!!! One day plan I've been working on for the "Women's Mexico Retreat" is a day trip up north of Club Santiago. We'd probably leave at a relaxed time, like noon, and our driver would travel us up to "Barra" first. Barrade Navidad, which means “Christmas Sandbar” or “The Bar of
Christmas,” is a small farming and fishing community.This sleepy little town is popular with those looking for a quiet stretch of beach without the large hotels and resorts of other larger Mexican cities. There are colorful local markets to photo, unpaved streets to sketch, small family owned stores to sample and popular beach front seafood restaurants where those interested, could have a light lunch. At Barra's beach, the scene is fascinating - between playing in the waves and enjoying the beauty of the local vendors and their wares. Later in the afternoon we will continue a little bit farther north to the village of Melaque. When I was there we stumbled across this delicious restaurant that coupled with a beachfront view" to die for". We were entertained by young surfers leaping off waves into the air while we feased on food prepared for the Gods.

So I have at last procured a gentleman to drive us on this Thursday trip. Here is his most recent email back to me:

"yes we can acomidate to all your needs our job is to make you and your ladies fell happy on your Manzanillo retreat our driver will be comited to your needs for the time period not a problem he will take you to the Barra de Navidad market to do your shopeing after that its time for a nice dinner in beautiful Melaque we will make sure you get the best out of the whole shopping, dinner, drive around town to town and back to Manzanillo" - Fredrico

So if this is something you think you could enjoy - sign onto our rooster of ladies. It's going to be a treat for all attending.

Participants Condo Pricing

2008-12-03T13:52:00.000-08:00

With a more complete vision of the Condominium I've secured for the "Women's Mexico Retreat", April 12-19, I have worked out a sliding scale arrangement for all three different bedrooms available. These, of course, are based on a first come, first serve basis (and I DO already have a tentative reservation for the Master Bedroom, pending contract signing & deposit). My goal is fair pricing to accomodate everyone to their liking, as best I can. If you have questions or concerns, please, contact me and I'll get an answer for you as quickly as possible.

Master Bedroom:
The entire upper floor is a large master bedroom suite with private bath, with one balcony and a huge terrace overlooking the pool. The master terrace has a small whirlpool tub, a table and with four chairs, and two lounge chairs. The lady/ladies occupying this space need be comfortable sharing use of the deck and it's amenities.

$750 Single Occupant/2 occupants in condo total
650 Single Occupant/3-4 occupants in condo total
550 Single Occupant/5 occupants in condo total
Double Occupancy would divide room cost by half.

Guest Bedroom:
On main floor with 2 double beds, a bathroom with separate vanity and a balcony.

$650 Single Occupant/2 occupants in condo total
600 Single Occupant/3-4 occupants in condo total
350 Double Occupant/3-5 occupants in condo total
300 Triple Occupant/5-6 occupants in condo total
250 Quad Occupant/6-7 occupants in condo total

Bunk Bedroom:
On main floor with bunk beds, a closet, a bathroom and window.

$410 Single Occupant
250 Double Occupant

A deposit of one half of the room cost and a $100 per person, refundable, damage deposit will be required with signing of the Condo Contract and a copy of the Condo Rules, in addition to the Retreat Contract. I will need the final, full lodging and retreat payment by the February 1, 2009 deadline. As more participants sign onto the condo roster, refunds for diminished room prices will distributed at the end of Retreat.

As you can see, the more friends you bring, the more reasonable the stay. I encourage you inviting a friend or two along! What a great winter treat for all of you.

Fellow Traveler Viewpoint

2008-12-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

Apologies for my absence ... I had a huge commission to complete and have recently started up with a new gallery. All things which devoured my attention so, finally I can turn back to our exciting retreat and the plans (and teases) for those of you planning on joining me!

Recently, one of my fellow travelers on our most recent trip to Manzanillo sent me a sweet review of his experience trekking around with me. Mike is the smiley fellow on the left of this photo (with his lady and Roland, my hubby, and I on the right). Pictured here as we dine - yes, at one of the restaurants to which I plan taking my retreat participants - and laugh at this hilarious antics of our server, who so freely volunteered to shoot this photo of us.

Here's Mikes commentary, in part, that most touched me.

There were many reasons which made our visit to Club Santiago memorable, fun and educational. Each day we mixed up activities which inspired our sensibilities, our spirits and our friendship. One pervasive theme to our visit was Elaine's art work. On each of our jaunts she would carry her journal and art supplies to capture local scenes and memories. I would sit alongside and marvel at her skill and artistry.

While each of us of had a digital camera to snap photos, her artistic vision and patience evoked a more focused and sensual capturing of the scenes, colors and textures of our environment.

I learned a great deal from watching, listening and questioning her unique perspective, skill and understanding of lighting, angles and focus.

While I will not be able to attend this spring retreat, you SHOULD! Club Santiago offers respite to the harsh winter (late spring) weather. The people, sights and sounds are inspiring, especially so, when in the good care and company of Elaine.

I'm trusting Mike's words and experience (yes, that is him, the cartoon character holding up the large bamboo!) can give you a window into the potential of seeing this vibrant, colorful and diverse retreat through an artists eyes. Those memories and emotions YOU can capture in your journal, not to mention the sharing that will go on between some mighty wonderful women. I've already spoken to several of you potential participants and you will be enamored and thrilled at what's in store for all of us. I look forward to sharing a whole new dimension with you all.

P.S. I DID receive confirmation on the condominium just across the street for participants lodging and am figuring out the sliding scale for the 3 different ranges of rooms and the varying amounts contingent upon the number of participants staying at the condo. I've inquired with the condo owner for more exact descriptions of the rooms and will be posting prices within the next few days.

Lovely 3 Bedroom, Club Santiago Contract Signed

2008-09-22T15:49:00.000-07:00

I have just signed a contract for this two level unit. The main level has a spacious living room, dining room, kitchen, large bedroom with two double beds, and a smaller room with bunk beds. Each bedroom has its own 3 pc ensuite. The entire upper floor is a large master bedroom with 2 double beds, a balcony and a huge terrace overlooking the pool. The master terrace has a small whirlpool tub, a table and with four chairs, and two lounge chairs. The condo includes a membership to the oceanfront beach club -with pool- three blocks away. As guests you can take in the ocean view from two different terraces from the comfort of the lounge chairs or if you want have a swim in the pool. You can also enjoy a breakfast, lunch, and drinks there.

It will sleep up to six and is within walking distance of the retreat. And still just a couple blocks from the beach too!

I have sent in a deposit and once I receive confirmation - I will list a pro-rated price for accommodations based upon how many participants sign up for this condominium. You may reserved particular rooms OR just opt for a sleeping space, to be assigned.

Another face + flood of memories

2008-07-30T16:43:00.001-07:00

This is an image from my personal journal entry on April 15, 2008. I'm very acquainted with it because I've been using it on my fliers advertising this wonderful "Women's Mexico Retreat".

I was especially happy with the sketch, which I completed in the Club Santiago condo, during quiet time, because I captured the intense focus this beautiful young girl held as she poured our "juice drink".

But what comes along with the face, hopefully suggested by the busy atmosphere behind her, was the flood of memories. The swirl of activity there at the Manzanillo Saturday Market was exciting. Everywhere there were colorful masses of everything imaginable - for sale. There was underwear, high-heeled sequined shoes, tomatoes, pottery, toys, and even a wheelbarrow full of candy, nuts and dried fruit. The wheelbarrow could follow you anywhere! And all the vendors had "deals" for you or "the best". It was intoxicatingly fun and exhausting.

So that's what floods my mind when I see this image - just thought I'd let you in on the fun! And that's what you will get when you catch a glimpse of an entry from your journal - when you come along and sketch with us on the retreat.

About Our Guest Instructor

2008-07-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

With Damaris Pyle's specialized mandala work and to make available, to any participant who might desire, inquiries or delvings more deep, I knew she'd be a perfect "Guest Instructor". She compliments her BS in Counseling Psychology from JFK University, CA, MFT license, with sensitivity, creativity, spirituality and playfulness!

When I asked my friend, Damaris, for a short blurb summarizing her participation in the retreat, she responded with this: "While working in the field of psychotherapy for the past 10 years, my journey has taken me into the healing domain of the imaginal realm. Psychological growth is enhanced when we enter the right brain hemisphere through art, creative writing, music and other symbolic avenues. During our time together I hope to open these channels giving you greater access to your innate creative self."

Damaris and I have been chatting about ways to place the mandalas you create during the retreat into journals. Usually she works in pastels. And as many of you artists know, that medium has some "fall out". We're considering, after applying a fixative, attaching a tissue or wax paper cover sheet into the journals. Or also, there is the potential of working in watercolor colored pencils. Lots of endless possibilities, I'd say.

If any participants have suggestions or requests for WHAT and HOW you'd like to express. Damaris & I are very open to hearing them too.

So it sounds like we will all discover insights and have alot of fun - come on and join us!

The Faces You'll See

2008-07-25T23:32:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken at just one of the local markets held in the Manzanillo area. I was first fascinated with the individual making of every "snow-cone" with the specially chosen flavors, then while being mesmerized by the twirling colors, I realized I was not the only one entranced.

His lil' face was just adorable and each moment that passed brought different animation to his large brown eyes. My camera allowed me to take a series of quick shots and this is just one of the many sweet exposures.

Now I'm not one to be pristine about my journal "keeping all my images to ONLY watercolor" or, say, entries of my own "sketches"! Heck no! I'd even remembered this small printer I saw at a workshop which allowed one to plug in one's digital camera's individual "card" and print out, on site, your own images on photo size color paper. I reflected back thinking - anyone who loves to collect on the spot photos to insert into their Journal on site - is welcome to bring along just such machinery!

I encourage everyone to express in exactly THE WAY that is their expression. Who would I be to limit or judge your own beautiful idea or process. Create anyway that pleases you - and - wow - look at the face you could image into your Journal. I'll include some other "beautiful faces" soon for you to enjoy. For now . . . I'm off to bed.

Happy Creating!

My Personal Journaling Experience

2008-07-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

I want to share with you my beginning experience journaling as well as the essence of what I feel is the value of continuing to journal. I hope you enjoy!

Your "Typical" Retreat Day

2008-07-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

Upon rising in the privacy of your condo, shared with intriguing women, you pull on a loose, airy outfit then meander across the cobblestones to the Retreat. You arrive just in time for slow, quiet stretches and "Sun Salute" on the rooftop as the sun comes up.

With coffee in hand you join everyone who has gathered with paint & pen materials 'round the large table for a watercolor sketching demonstration by Elaine. Today, we're watching how to use wax crayons in conjunction with watercolor painting. We wander down to the nearby beach for some solo sketching & writing. After a period time, our teachers check in on each one of us for some one-on-one encouragement, reminding us to meet after the lunch break. As ladies share their "journaling experience", we all listen and learn technique tips. Then, we move on to a playful word game.

For dinner, the adventurous may join the group taking the local bus into town, while others walk down to the nearby cafe overlooking the beach.

After sunset, we had options to walk the beach or return to the workshop space to experiment with "telling our personal stories" or "imagined dreams".

Bedtime is sweet, and satisifying. Ahhh.