Poem: Creativity

Creativity

Photography: Jetta Marie

Poem: Jetta Marie

Gratitude Of The Day: Creativity and being a part of a world where it can be expressed, nurtured and loved. 

Creativity

I see the things that you cannot

I create complex from simple thoughts

I weave tales and colors into being

This talent is the song I sing

Though some of it you love or hate

I will never cease to thus create

For in that one that sees my style

And is brought to awe or gentle smile

In that one person that sees anew

In a moment of wonder transferred me to you

In this my love, in this my glee

In this is the muse for creativity. 

Others Like Me

Sometimes it seems an uphill battle to try and show others the message and power of gratitude. Sometimes it seems like a journey I face on my own and I don't make a whole lot of impact. But in my heart, I know that it could not be farther from the truth. I am not perfect, but that is what makes me human and beautiful. I can focus on the fact that I am not always exactly grateful for everything in the beginning, or I can find a peace an oneness to accept my humanity and change my perception. 

I have found in my travel s over the world wide web, a lot of amazing people whom I admire very much. Recently I found someone particular amazing because he reminds me that when you have a message to share, you don't need to focus so much on the worries and tribulations of being a wisdom sharing individual. Its like the famous Nike ads have always said...You just do it. Share what is in your heart; you may make more of a difference than you think you do. And like Jerry Sargeant, whom I would like to publicly thank so much for getting my faith in what I do back on track and inspiring me to continue my quest to spread love into this world by the power of perception and gratitude. You should all check out his facebook page and look at the wonderful inspiration he has to offer everyone. 

There Are Others Like Me

Though I am special

Strong and unique

It is still nice to know

There are others like me

Out to bring change 

To a world in need

Out to spread love

And to combat the greed

Out to make difference

Out to lift hearts

And it is a work

I will whole hearted embark

I will be strong

And let my wings free

Cause I'm not alone

There are others like me

Together we save lives

We open you heart

This is a mission

I am glad I am a part. 

Gratitude: The process of wisdom

The process of wisdom

Challenge: How many famous quotes on wisdom are contained within this poem? Can you name the masters that I talk about? First hint- there are 5 of them. 

Each day the new dawn draws its breath

In its setting just the same

Are so many opportunities

In understanding thus to gain.

Wisdom is the taking

Of the knowledge of the day

And coming to understanding

Not simply knowing what to say

Understanding comes from process

Of a fact that you impart

And turning it over in your head

And storing it in your heart

In this understanding 

Comes knowledge that there is more

And this learning will continue

If you allow it, Evermore

What then will come, you ask?

As you travel paths less taken?

Why wisdom will begin

If your courage is not then shaken

For in wisdom comes an honor

For which courage is much needed

When a grain of wisdom you do hold

It must to grow,and thus be seeded

Into the mind of fresh perspective

A chance to impart its breath

A new young mind to guide and teach

For not share it would be its death

Wisdom is a process 

Not for the the fools you see

The fool thinks that he has it

But the wise knows that not to be

In the ambiance of the breath of dawn

In the wonder of live's magic bind

Wisdom is a treasure 

And a process of heart and mind

Facts will come to understanding

Understanding to knowledge grow,

Knowledge will come to wisdom

And then you too shall know

To begin this process so intense

A master once did muse

That the way to understanding life

Is first to understanding you

There is so much wisdom

And beauty in each day

Its more than I could simply write

Or even I could say

But the truest beauty of this all

Is wisdom is within

each and every one of us

So let your journey now begin

Open your eyes to this glorious world

See that which your heart implores

take the challenge to see the world

And  wisdom can be yours

Letter: Challanges

                                             

Dear Readers,

The time is fast approaching where I will leave my beloved blog site for a new official website on the internet. I am both excited for the challenge and know that it will bring this mission to more people around the globe, and nervous for all the amazing opportunities and challenges that I am being faced with this year.

I currently am in the process of a lot of changes in my life. My husband and I are looking to move, we are both starting the process of  trying to sell ideas and talents. I am pursuing my passion in photography and trying to set up a studio and he has developed a line of amazing skin care products that should be on the market next year. There have been a lot of changes, both good and bad in both our families and I have to say that having all of this going on has been a bit of a challenge to say the least. The businesses and daily bills are challenging to keep up on, and the emotional and mental tolls of daily life have caused a few mental breaks for sure.

But in a strange and beautiful way, I know that the challenges I have faced are what has made me a stronger person today. I have made the choice to look at them as both a challenge and an opportunity to maintain a zen perspective and use these hardships as opportunities to better myself and my life.

This life is never without hardship, but I do know that how much we internalize those hardships and how hard they actually have to be is more on us than anything. We cannot control what life throws at us but we can decide what to do when we are hit in the head. Do we get angry and try to throw the ball back? Do we sit down and cry? Do we pick up the ball, dust ourselfs off and stop standing where the balls are being thrown? Or do we prepare for the next pitch and vow a home run?

We all get to choose how we will handle the hardships in our lives. It is like I have always said, perception of the world is the key to happiness and understanding in this life. Gratitude in itself is a choice on how you see things. Its not an easy skill to master but its worth it in the end. It all starts with one choice that you choose to see the glass half full on when it is easier to see half empty. Perception, like anything is a skill and practice is the beginning of a change that is beautiful.  But it all starts with a choice on how you will handle a challenge. So, I emplor you to ask yourself this question; how is the perception of your glass today?

As always, I love you all and hope that the day is full of beauty and happy moments. May the challenges you face today be opportunities that you can recognize and use to better your life. I am ever grateful to all of my readers and cannot wait to introduce the new website next month. Updates will be posted weekly.

Always and Artfully Yours

Jetta Marie

Wisdom in hardships

" Let your learning turn to knowledge and with the passing of time that knowledge will one day become the awesome gift of wisdom. " -Jetta Marie B

Photo: Jetta Marie

Poem: Jetta Marie

Gratitude of The Day: The ability of understanding that we all have experiences in our life, be they good or bad, that contribute to the wisdom that each of us possess. Even if our words are not exactly poetry we all have contributions of our understandings of life that we should all be proud of and share in a spirit of kindness and love to our fellow humans. Especially the younger ones, though you may have to have some patience for things to sink on that audience. ;)

IN the ambiance of the woods

Beneath the trees grand heights

Lies a world in leaves decay

A humbling and awing sight

There lies a forest all its own

Springing forth from summers gone

In this wisdom of the woods

These woods can carry on

Much like the woods of which I speak

We all can lose our ways

We can forget that seeds of hope

Have been left before our way

Through the trials and the learning

we experience each day

Those seeds can bring us peace

When we have all but lost our way.

Wisdom is not easy 

To understand or gain

I know its hard to grasp at times

That there are choices in ones pain

For pain is overwhelming

And I understand to well

That it has a powers all its own

And can feel like flaming hell.

But in my meager life 

Through my own travels in the rain

I know that wisdom is a choice 

When we are faced with pain

It like that unseen forest

Far beneath trees

That little forest all its own

With its hope filled little seeds

They keep the forest strong

Though their small and struggle so

But in natures grand design

Those sprouts will help this forest grow

Now you can see this miracle 

As a simple pile of leaves 

With not but  a few small sprouts

And nothing to truly see

Or you can search inside you

And you can take a different stance

And with a change in heart

You can embrace in natures dance

Understanding that this pile of death

This mound of summer past

Lays life  springing forth in glory

And a future that can last

Pain is much like seedlings

Springing from the dust

The perception of its beauty though

Is solely placed on us

So do you see a Pile of leaves

Of rot, mold and decay?

Or do you see the beauty

That this mound of dirt displays?

Do you learn from pain in life

Or does it consume your being?

Is it a tool for wisdom

Or a thing from which your fleeing?

We all have seeds inside us

That will sprout from dust and gloom

Those seeds will rise above pain

And into a forest bloom

And as you chose to face it

To find wisdom as you grow

My words will one day hit you

And my own wisdom will you know

I do not dismiss of heartache

Of the pain in each our lives

But what I wish to tell you

Is you can fall or you can fly

Adventure/poem: Salt Lake City Farmers Market

Dear Readers;

Chaz and I had an amazing time at the farmers market this past Saturday. It was a nice change to the depression that has been ruling my life these past months. I had a chance to not only see some amazing things, but to look up from the ground and to talk to people. Sometimes I think we get stuck looking at the ground and missing the amazing sights, sounds and energy around us. We all get stuck in that rut sometimes but we all have the ability to get out of it too. When you feel like you may be fitting into that category of melancholy perception take this challenge; just look up and find a few things that make you smile. It may take a minute but this change of mind is just like anything else and it takes practice. Sometimes a good friend to give you a nice push is nice too. :)

So here are my looking up moments from the Saturday farmers market:

Photography: Jetta Marie
Poem: Jetta Marie
Gratitude Of The Day: a day of rest, fun, education, and wonderful people that I got to share with my Chaz at the Salt Lake City Farmers market this past Saturday. I love date days.

Kasthuri's Cupcakes

Its nice to find people who are passionate about life and their work. And some of the most passionate people I met today just happened to be in a line of work that I am particularly fond of. CUPCAKES!
The unique thing about these cupcakes is that Kasthuri understand the need for everyone, no matter what ailments they have, to be able to enjoy the simple joy of a frosting topped mini wonder. She has made it possible for those who suffer from gluten allergies to enjoy her work just like the rest of us. These cupcakes are also 1/2 the regular amount of sugar you would find in a grocery store cupcake. Her flavor creations are to die for; such inspirations as Orange blueberry and spiced chai. Yup, its official; I loved this booth and all the little mini wonders of sweetness it contained. If you are interested in contacting Kasthuri for an organic and amazing treat or an event, you can find her at
http://cupcakesbykasthuri.com 

Golden Touch Puppets.

These little muppet looking puppets brought back some nostalgia moments and defenatly brought a smile to my face. How stinking cute are these little guys? This were created by Linda Gold and you can check the full line out at her website on Etsy.com.  The easy way to get to it is to go to etsy.com and put in " golden touch puppets" in the search bar. You can also contact Linda at goldentouchpuppets.yahoo.com. Such a cute vision for these little guys.


Thank you so much to everyone who was willing to let me feature them on my blog today and for everyone who was so wonderful to share their passions with me. And to my readers; get out there and do something fun! You don't have to spend a lot of money or doing something extreme to have a blast and see some amazing things. You just have to get off the couch and experience life. Look up and love what you see. Have a good day everyone. Love you all!

Artfully Yours,
Jetta Marie

Look Up

Its easy to miss life around

When you're busy starting at the ground

So if you want the half full cup

Find the courage to look up.

See the people running round

You would see them looking down.

Notice how they rush and scurry

Always in a flush and flurry.

Kind of funny if you sit

And watch them for just a little bit.

See the sky of blue and gray

Be grateful for another day

There is so much to look forward too

But that perception stands on you.

You can look up and find grand and sweet

Or keep looking down at rocks and feet.

What is your perceptions stance?

So where will you direct your glace?

Shout Out: Nephi, the hero of my camera set

I had a wonderful opportunity to be a part of the Grantsville High photo day on Monday, September 15th of 2014. It was already a great school and I was so happy to be the lead photographer there but I had an unexpected series of events that could have been dastardly had one awesome high schooler not been there to swoop in. As most of you know, I do from time to time have battle of the wits with my nemesis dyscalculia or A.K.A number dyslexia. I was having a rough morning with it and incorrectly positioned my main light at an embarrassingly tall number so needless to say I had a cord that was not quite where it ought to have been...and I was a little tired...and I am sure you can see where this goes. I tripped on it and the whole thing started falling like a slow motion horror film. I was able to catch it as it fell but in trying to get it back up it was too tall to balance and started falling the other way. But there happened to be one awesome senior standing in line right next to my set and he pretty much pulled a superman deal and we got it back up. *whew* I remeasured and all was good with that, but I could not help but give a giant shout out to Nephi for saving my day and really, all of our day. Had my camera been unable to function that would have been a long day for the whole school. Thank you so much for saving my butt Nephi. Words can seriously not thank you enough for being there when you were. :D

Sincerely,

Jetta Marie

Poem- Little Hopes

Little Hopes

The world has got me down today

For eternity I want to lay

Alone in tears from all this pain

My mind is drifting from things sane.

But in my shallow darkness bleak

Though I feel so tired and weak,

I try to find those little things

 Things of beauty now to sing.

So like a game I seek life's gifts

In hope this sadness will then lift

So here they are in proper pose

my glistening dew upon my rose;

I am grateful for the sky and trees

For the people who are there for me,

For the sense of calm in raging storm

For being nothing at all near norm,

For the way I see the world around

For the way I hear each wave of sound

For the power to learn from what I lack

For the classy shirt upon my back.

I guess though hard I can be glad

And remember the things that I DO have. 

My day of pain has changed one hue,

Oh, the power of brighter views! 

One little hope to lift the blues

The amazing power of gratitude.

Shout Out: Paris- My Awesome helper at Ititeris Early College Prep School

Gratitude Of They Day: Paris, you are an adorable model and an awesome young lady and it was a pleasure having you help out on this crazy day. 

Dear Readers;

My spotlight today is this awesome young lady with the lovely name of Paris. She is just as lovely as her name and I was so grateful to have her help on Monday. At work, we had the honor of obtaining a new contract at Itineris Early College Prep school in West Jordan, UT. I got there bright and early just after 6:30 and shortly after that this young lady came into the classroom I was setting up in and asked what she could do to help out. She helped me move some tables and chairs and we listened to one of her music stations and talked about music a bit. The amazing part with her came when all hell broke loose with my equipment and I started getting errors like there was no tomorrow. Camera was bugging out, lights were not functioning, and I was a bit stressed out to say the least. knowing that there was a growing line and nothing I could do I told her is was fine if she wanted to high tail it and go. initially she did step out, but she was back very shortly after. 

Through out the whole day, she kept popping her cute little head in to see if there was anything she could do for me. Most of the time she just kept me company because there was little either of us could do but just bare through the mess one bit at a time and get some great pictures in the meantime. But we got through, we made it and I could not have asked for a cooler and thoughtful assistant for the day. It was an absolute pleasure to work with you, Paris, and I hope I get the honor to take your pictures again next year. Outside of school photos, if you ever need any photography done I would be honored to work with you again. Plus you are just a beautiful young lady and I could do some amazing photographs with your natural modeling ability. You have talent girl, and I would know. I do this for a living and I know a good model when I see one. ;) Have a great year and thank you for your company, your willingness to go above and beyond, and for all your help.

Artfully Yours, 

Jetta Marie

Shout Out: Ashley

Ashley

Photo: Jetta Marie
Gratitude: Ashley; what an awesome lady. I had a tricky order due to coupons and she was great about it.

Dear Reader:

As most of you know, I am what is considered an "extreme" coupon enthusiast. I admit with some orders I can be a tad of a pain in the butt, however the money I save by what I do can often times be very worth my efforts. There is usually the cost of upsetting the person who has to deal with my money saving extremeness, which I understand when I want you to ring up 5 items separate even though they are the same item. I really don't mean to be a headache, but what I do keeps my family going when I don't get the hours I hope for at my work or things are tight for whatever reason so despite this I keep doing it and I hope that people like Ashley are the ones who check me out at the register. I was lucky on Sunday and my hopes were met.

Ashley was even mildly upset at what I wanted her to do, and this kick-ass young lady was an absolute pleasure to talk to. She is a budding photobug herself and we actually had a lot in common. She had a very go getting personality and at the same time she was also  what I would refer to as very chill. As I was talking to her, she asked if I did black Friday sales. I will never go to one ever again and I told her about my experience with it waiting in line for a DVD player at Walmart back in 2000. Each. In a nutshell, people were not even acting like people and there was a ton of rude behavior going on. Ashley simply stated that rudeness like that deserved a good old punch in the face in her opinion.

As I continued talking to her, I sensed a real dislike for rude people and each time an example of it came up in our conversation her remedy was simple and direct; take care of it and let them know they are being a butt.  She was so much fun to talk to and I have to say, this girl has got the right attitude to do great things in her life. She does not sit back and just let things happen, she makes things happen. She knows what customer care is and she is very good at it. I felt like I was just chatting with an old friend as she helped me support my husband and I with my coupons.

So Ashley, thank you so much for being just who you are. Thank you for helping me make the most of yet another shopping trip. Thank you for chatting with me and making my shopping experience so enjoyable. when you get up your photo website, let me know and I will post a link to it. Shoot for the stars because with that go getting, problem solving attitude you can move mountains and have one incredible journey no matter where you are headed. In a nutshell, you are awesome and I hope to run into you again. Have a great one!

Artfully Yours,

Jetta Marie

Shout Out: Adventure at Uptown Cheapskates

Adventure At Uptown Cheapskates In Murray

Photo: Jetta Marie

Gratitude Of The Day: New adventures and the awesome people who make them so much fun.

No matter how under the weather I am feeling I cannot seem to give up the opportunity for an adventure, even just a mini one. So Chaz and I decided to gather up our unused clothing and shoes and take it  to a little place called Uptown Cheapskates. Being the "determined" (and POSSIBLY a tad bull-headed) person that I am I decided that since I could not go to work due to temporary restrictions from the ER doctor, I was going to do at least one productive thing today. I am very glad for my stubbornness in this instance because this place is awesome and I came in contact with Tasha. What an awesome young lady.

I have always been curious about selling to thrift stores but have been a bit hesitant. I have a certain disposition, as do a lot of people I am sure, to not have the best expectations in mind. I tend to think of some musky shop who finds it entertaining to buy Grandpa's old leisure suits and resell them for prices they have not been worth since their utter demise in the 80's. But I was very happily surprised today because this store has some really trendy and hot items and the prices are great.

But the best part for a newbie thrifter like myself was how great this young lady was when I got there. She was very laid back, friendly and knowledgeable about current trends and was able to walk me through what was in current trend and what was not. She went through all the articles of clothing I brought in and talked to me about every piece in there, showing me how what I brought differed from the current fashions and by the end of the bag I was kind of sad I did not have some more for her to coach me on. In the end there were only a few pieces that were of any interest and I put it on store credit. I can not wait to go back with Chaz and show him what I learned. Most of the clothing was his so I still have a bit to learn on women trends. But Chaz is going to look amazing when we use that credit for some updates to his wardrobe. Photo session with my favorite model anyone? But of course there will be! 

Thank you Tasha for giving this old lady a much needed trend update and an amazing impression. You are awesome and don't you forget it. 

Artfully Yours,

Jetta Marie

Shout Out: Omar's Rawtopia Crew

Omar's Rawtopia is located in Sugarhouse @ 2148 South Highland Dr. 

Photo: Jetta Marie

Gratitude: Omar and his amazing crew.

Dear Readers;

 I think Omar knew when 4 little girls showed up to have dinner at a raw vegan diner that he had his work cut out for him, but he was sure up to the challenge.When we placed our orders we knew that trying to find a raw vegan dish four 4 young girls was going to be a challenge. So we picked out what we thought would work and about 5 mins later out came Omar. He was so excited to have the girls there, but he advised that what we had picked out may not work. He made the pizza (which was amazing by the way) and as he suspected, the girls found it a bit complicated. 

So He began to make recommendations that were more simple. He asked the girls what kind of veggies they liked and based on what they told him, he brought out custom plates for the girls that were simple and tasty, like the hummus with some cabbage wraps and  a vegan cream cheese dip. Omar did not give up on finding a raw vegan option for my sister-in-laws girls, and in the end 2 out of the 4 young children that sat on that patio on Friday the 26th found a raw vegan dish that they actually LIKED. And in his efforts to find options for the kids, he did not even charge us for all the little tasting plates he created for the girls. He was just so happy we found something for them to enjoy. 

Way to go Omar; we cannot thank you enough. We had a blast and we will be recommending you to EVERYONE we know. My husband and I eat at Omar's Rawtopia any chance we can get. The food has always been incredible, and even though I am by no means a vegan, much less a raw vegan, This is my favorite restaurant food. It is like art on a plate and you cannot find food like this anywhere else. I always feel so energized and awesome the next day from all the nutrients and I cannot look at a fast food place for about a week afterwards. 

Not only is the food amazing, but the people here are the most passionate chefs I have ever met. How many chefs are there around here that grow a good amount of their own food and then prepare it literally just picked when you order? How many places have you been lately where LOVE is actually listed in the ingredients? You owe it to yourself to try this place because it is a place unlike any other. The only thing I would ever change about this place is the location. Omar deserves a 5 start location but no matter where he is, I will be there enjoying my favorite bean burger on sweet cabbage leaf "buns". 

Thank you Omar, for your passion, your kindness and for that extra ingredient in everything you do. Love. Chaz and I will be back soon with our excited empty tummys. 

Artfully Yours,

Jetta Marie

Poem: Roberto- Caring for a stranger

Photo: Jetta Marie

Poem: Jetta Marie

Gratitude of the day: The kindness and actual concern showed to my husband today by Roberto. My husband has a dairy allergy, and almost every time we eat out someone puts dairy on his food and its been so hard to get someone who actually cares about the fact that dairy makes him sick. But this gentleman made POSITIVELY sure that my husband could enjoy his meal dairy free. It may seem like a small thing, but it made it possible for my husband to enjoy his meal and spend time with me rather than fighting to get a sandwich that would not make him ill. Thank you for that Roberto. Thank you for caring about two weird little people that you just met. You made a difference today. 

Its nice that people still exist

Who care about being kind

Its nice to know that if you look

Good people you can find.

Its in those tiny gestures

Like using manners and holding doors

That my faith in human kind

is growing more and more.

People who pay attention 

When you have a real concern

Those who are not looking

For ways to make words burn.

Being kind does not take much

And most just do it cause its right

But these little human beauty 

Are an awing and wonderful site.

So thank you for being kind today

For showing a little grace

You are the reason I still believe

In the goodness of human race. 

Poem; Choices

Choices

You can be a force for good

Or you can turn to darker ways

Either way you make a choice

You must face at the end of every day

People have opinions

They can be rude and often loud

But in the end the path you take

Must be for you and not the crowd

Be a force for evil

Or of something greater be a part

Whatever path you choose to take

Listen to the beating in your heart

Have the courage to live for yourself

Strive for that which stirs your being

Those things that lite your passion

That make you want to sing

No matter what watching eyes may say

Live your life strong tall and proud

Don't ever waste a single breath

On the opinions of a crowd.

Happy Birthday Andrew

Happy Birthday Andrew

"It is a joyous day when you have the immense pleasure and  honor of watching a young grasshopper grow with such wisdom and courage as I see in you. You make us all so proud "grasshopper." We love you and miss you so much. So many hugs and kisses, sweet Andrew. Please don't ever forget how much we love and miss you. We are always here for you if you ever want of need us. Happy Birthday #19! "

Dear Andrew;

The 16th is my Nephew Andrew's Birthday #19. Normally, I would call and send my little homemade card with no second thoughts, but as most of you know...I can't. I am going to send this card either way but I know there is a good chance that you will not actually get it so I am posting it here in hopes that if you don't you can still read it an know that I was thinking about you. I wanted to take you out to lunch like I was able to for your brother but hopefully the ban from the Boren family will be lifted next year so Uncle Chaz and I can. If you do read this and want to take me up on it that offer, it  is available to you anytime. We all love you so much and we miss you terribly. But have a happy birthday and know that we are thinking of you. 

-Sincerely-

Aunt Jett and Family

"Cascade of Dusk"- The first of my pieces for sale

Cascade of Dusk

I will be selling this shortly on my photography site, jettborenphotography.blogspot.com. I am still doing all the pricing on it, but I am anticipating around $300 for it. I am very excited to be able to offer my work to the public. I will be doing some black and whites after I get done with another project I am involved with. I have a project going on involving a mock bride, a lot of crazy colors, and an old railroad track. Curious much? ;)

Artfully Yours,

Jetta Marie

Andrew-Birthday Card

Andrew's Birthday Card 2014

I know Andrew's Birthday is not quite yet, but I just finished this and had to post it. I will try and send it closer to his actual birthday, but due to the issues going on and the no contact from our family that his mother asked of us I am not sure if he will get this when I send it snail mail. I hope he does but whatever happens, it least is is here too. Love you, Andrew. 

To: Andrew and Adam- I believe

Its hard to stay strong
When you feel like your caving in
I know its hard to keep pushing on
When you feel like you've nothing more to give

But hold on
To the light that lives in you
It seems dark right now
But hold on you can make through

 And I beleve , I believe
In the courage in you
I believe, I believe
Your strong enough to get through
All the things in your life
That try to fill you with fear
Can't hold a candle to the power
That lives in you my dear
And I believe, I believe
 in the courage and the fight
I believe I believe
In the power that you have inside

So when it feels
Like you can no longer stay strong
Listen close to the love inside this song
Take a breath
Look right into that mirror
And see that light
That I have seen growing all these years
You so much stronger
Than you give credit for
So spread those wings
And show this world you can soar

And I believe, I believe
In the courage inside you
I believe I believe
You are strong enough to get through
All the things in you life
That try to fill you with fear
Can't hold a candle to the power
That lives in you my dear
And I believe I believe
In the courage and the fight
I believe in what you have inside

I believe I believe
In the courage inside you
I believe i believe
Yes I believe in you
I believe in you

To: Kyle, Geno, & Bren- Poem on Legends

Dedication To Bren, my uncle Kyle Cannon, and My Grandfather Gene D Cottrell

Legends

Legends do not pass blindly away

With the rising or falling of each wondrous day,

They somehow shake  looming bonds of the grave

And through sharing their stories, memories are saved.

Tales of history, love and of wars,

Tales of the heart for us to implore,

From the knights upon their gallant steeds

To men of slightly humbler breeds,

Legends are built upon lessons of life

In stories of courage to overcome strife.

They are built on the stories of everyday men

Who stood tall with true courage despite outcomes dim.

No matter the outcome or judgement of fate,

They left us all tales that we can now contemplate.

Through lives lived in value, in passion and truth, 

We can heed their examples and discard that uncouth. 

A legend is one who cannot death be bound,

And when a life is well lived it should stay forever renowned.

So now friend, I ask you, in the end of the day,

If they grave where to claim you what would others say?

What stories and lessons would henceforth be told?

Would you be hailed a life well lived, or a life lived just dull?

I've know a few legends in my short lived time,

They inspired my words, each and every true line.

They lived life in beauty with examples to heed,

Those lessons I carry of the lives they did lead. 

When I am tempted to be less than surely I should,

I look to my legends as sources of good. 

I look at their lives and I humbly implore,

Did they settle for less, or strive always for more?

Was conforming to others what made them unique?

Or was it the light that i would feel when they'd speak?

Through soft spoken and gentle, they feared not of man,

And through their examples I know that I can;

I can be a person growing stronger each day,

And when my times comes good things others will say.

Because of examples of those gone before, 

Due to the lessons they left at my door,

I cannot bare thoughts of a life lived in waste, 

I shall make them proud, I shan't be a disgrace.

I'll live my life aiming to be half what they are,

And I will be proud of my journey and scars,

And when my time comes and I see them again,

I can thank all these legends, These men above men.

Heroes may pass and their stories  differ,

But no matter the time passing, Legends endure.

Letter: Busy Bee has a new idea

Busy Bee Has A New Idea

Photo: Jetta Marie

Gratitude: the constant learning experiences and chances to help others that have been presented as I have worked on this site. I am so grateful and humbled by the opportunities I have had and the people I have come in contact with. I can honestly say, that if it were not for this blog, I would have missed talking to some pretty amazing people. Thank you all for your support, love and willingness to be a part of this site as I try to bring a little light into the world. I could not do this without you all. 

Dear Readers;

 I admit fully that I am a tad behind, but reset assured my mission to spread a little gratitude and optimism has not faltered. I have been busy as bee and have several projects going on now that I am trying to balance with work, social obligations, and time with my family. Its been a lesson in time management and patience, that is for sure. But I am ever determined and have dedicated some time in the mornings to add to the site and do a day of editing and improvements on this blog.

I am working on finding ways to spread the message I am trying to share, and one of the things I am doing today is a bit nerve racking for me but I am actually kind of excited. My husband and I have created these little cards to give people and I have made a goal to give out 25 a week. That means that I have to get outside my comfort zone and TALK to 25 new people every week. If this does not cure my social anxiety then nothing will. I am very excited about my new addition to my mission. ( HA! I can't help the rhymes, they are in my blood :)

Love you all and I will keep you posted on how this goes. Should be interesting if nothing else.

Artfully Yours,

Jetta Marie

Closing Doors and Open Windows

Closed Doors and Open Windows

Photo: Donation by David Freestone

Gratitude: The knowledge and opportunity that when a door is closed, God will open a window. I had hit a brick wall with my efforts to create a memory page for my husband's brother, Bren, when I was put in touch with one of his close friends who shared this photo and gave me hope in what I am doing again. I know the road to accomplish what I have set out to do will be difficult but as I look at this photo I also am remembering why I am doing this.  

Updates on Bren Memory page project

First Restoration 

Hedi- The spunky little soldier of optimism

Hedi- Spunky little soldier of Optimism 

I met this amazing young lady while working as part of the photo team for her dance school. By far one of the spunkiest, sweetest, most energetic, and just downright cutest dancers ever. 

This is sweet little Hedi and her mother. She is truly a reminder that even in a crazy world, it is more than possible to raise children who can still see beauty and goodness in this world-and who help spread the message of just being a good person. Nicely done; Hedi is truly a beautiful young lady, inside and out. 

Photo: Jetta Marie

Poem: Jetta Marie

Gratitude Of The Day: Little Ms. Hedi- who reminds us all that it is possible, no matter how crazy of times we live in that there is always reason to have a little bounce in your step and a smile on your face. We can choose to let the little things bug us and bring us down, or we can break out in dance and make a new friend. Hedi had two photo shoots to be apart of today, and they were two hours apart. That is a LONG time to wait for a young kid, but rather than being sad about it she took a seat next to me and I was smiling within minutes. I asked about her dance costume, she promptly told me she was not fond of the make-up aspect of the outfit but agreed she did look pretty awesome, and before you know it this spunky little cutie was naming the songs on my little Pandora app (Disney songs) and  bringing smiles and laughter to everyone who took a seat by my little picture day check in table. You are amazing, Ms. Hedi. And don't you EVER forget that! 

 To Frown Or Smile

We have a choice to wear a frown 

Or we can turn the frown around

We can complain and be so sad

Or we can find ways to be glad

Is much more fun to dance and play

Than to be grumpy, Anyday

So don't let the weather get you down

Don't find Excuses to wear that frown

Look around, look high and low

From summer sun to glistening snow

There are many things for which I am glad

And even when I'm feeling sad

I know that goodness is still there

Even if life right now, may not seem fair

I know that I will be OK

And tomorrow is a brand new day!

So ring the bell and bang the drum

There's so much joy and fun to come.

Live each day with wonder and glee

And lets find reasons to be happy!

Silly Milly The Boxer

 This is Ms.Milly the boxer and her person Daxton

And these are the little fashionista's pretty pink claws

Photos: Jetta Marie

Poem: Jetta Marie

Gratitude Of The Day: The every so stylish Ms. Milly The Boxer. This sweet little girl is so calm and gentle that she was totally ok with her owner primping her up to the nines and painting her cute little paws a lovely coral pink. She made me smile from ear to ear, that is for sure. Thanks Milly!

Silly Milly The Boxer

Silly Milly,

You fancy pup!

You got your paws

So dollied up!

A pretty pink 

For prancing round

A fancier pup 

Can not be found.

In starting a trend

You showed no fear

And you made me grin

From ear to ear.

So here's to you,

The fashion star!

Ms. Milly The Boxer

You just raised the bar.

 Cheers to you

You sweet little pup

And thanks you for helping

To cheer this girl up.

I was having a hard day

but then you came along

And when a pup struts her pink toes

How can anything be wrong?

Pretty Ms. Milly,

You beautiful pup

I am sure I'm not the only

Face you cheered up.

Keep right on prancing

Those beautiful feet

And thank you for bringing

My smile back to me.

Letter: May1st-Bren Day

Dear Readers;

I will be honest; for once ye dear old Chatterbox is at a loss for words. Today marks the decade point for my husband and his family in the loss of their oldest brother. After a lifetime of depression he ended his life on May 1st of 2004. Though those he loved and those who loved him have come to heal as much as they can from what happened that day, there are still a lot of wounds that may never heal in this life and a sadness that surrounds today that seems to loom like a little black rain cloud gone haywire. (excuse the Winnie-the-pooh reference)

From the stories that my husband has shared with me, I have learned a great deal about his big brother and have come to know a lot about him through the loving memories of his family and those who loved him. One of the things I learned was that he had a sincere respect and love for those who had passed on and insisted on Halloween being what it was intended to be; a day to remember the dead. He had a love for people that did not end in this life, and though I did not get the chance to meet him before he passed away, I find that ability and beauty to love beyond this life remarkable and awing.

My Husband and I do not like the idea of choosing the day he passed away to  honor him. We usually celebrate him on Memorial day, Halloween and his birthday. We like to honor him on the days where he was happy and alive and full of the love that he gave so freely to all he knew. We light one of his candles on those days and Chaz tells me a new story about him. But I realize that many focus on this day because there is still so much pain and want and mourning still going on from losing this beautiful, powerful man. Though I never had the chance to give him a hug or be humbled by his heart of gold, I have grown to love and admire him very much through the stories and love that his family has kept alive for him. And in whatever small ways I can, I want to help keep those memories alive for anyone still in need of comfort right now.

As I said, Chaz and I don't focus his life on the anniversary of the day he passed away, but I do intend on lighting a candle for him on memorial day, Halloween and his birthday. I found a wonderful little park in salt lake that would be the perfect place to do these little vigils for him and it would be really awesome if anyone would like to come and join us. Please look me up on Facebook under jett boren and shoot me a message if you would like to come and we will get something set up. I am also in the process of creating a memory page on Facebook for him. If anyone has pictures, videos,or memories they would like to share please visit the Bren Boren Memory page.

I love you all, and am praying for each of you who are effected by what happened a decade ago today. Know that in time and in surrounding yourself with those who truly loved him and sharing the goodness that was Bren that some of that pain will heal. I will do what I can to keep opportunities open for those memories to thrive. The beauty of a good heart will never fade with death, for in pure love for others ones memories will bare light and goodness that cannot be erased.

Sincerely and Artfully Yours,

JettaMarie

Boren Family Party

                            John, Solice, and Roman...and sweet Owen on the ground for some reason.

                                        My fellow Photobug in action! Nicely done my dear :)

  Tani and Owen in a sweet moment where he was still for 30 seconds. short lived but so much   "awww!"

Dear Readers,

Due to several of our family members health issues on my husbands side, it can be a rare occasion when we actually get to spend time with each other as a group. We were still missing few at this one, and we loved and missed them a lot, but I was so glad to see everyone that was able to make it. Love you all and I am so grateful to have you in my life. :)

Artfully Yours,

Jetta Marie

Letter: forbiden from contact with my nephews and full of heartach

Dear Readers;

I am afraid, for the first time on this blog, that I am writing today as a human who is finding it hard to be grateful for much right now. I am so full of sorrow and conflict that I feel like I may burst. I am sharing this as a humble reminder that even I, Ms. Gratitude have moments where it is hard for me to see past things.

I have nowhere left to turn but here to reach out on the thin thread of hope that one of my beautiful nephews will read this and know that I still love them with all my heart. I want them to be a part of my life; I want to be there to encourage their amazing talent, to hear about what they are up to, to hug them and tell them how much I admire them...but due to circumstances I cannot bypass, I was told I can not have any contact with them right now through no fault of my own.

I will not go into detail on why their mom has cut off all contact from the Boren's from her and my nephews; that story is not the important thing here. I will always respect her as their mom and I have to respect her when it comes to her telling me I cannot contact them. I pray in my heart that it is temporary because I adore those boys and I admire her too. She goes through a lot of hardships and the relationship with our family is complicated for her. But that is not the here nor there; The important thing is that I want somewhere in this world where my nephews can see how much they are loved. I want some place in this world where I can tell them how proud I am of them, and how lucky I am to have them as a part of my family.

Somewhere to tell Amazing Adam to keep pursuing his incredible photography gift. I was so thrilled and impressed when I took him out to take photos on his birthday. His natural eye for symmetry and his incredible speed at picking up how to use the camera I gave him stunned me beyond words. I was so excited to take him hiking in the springtime, and I want him to know that I did not break my promise. I tried with all my heart to get the OK to take you hiking for pictures but I was told that I could not. Know that I would never break a promise to you if I could help it Adam. I love you with all my soul and no matter how long I cannot speak to you or how far you are, I always will. This whole family will. You are a remarkable young man and I will cherish that day I got to have you to myself  for photos forever. Keep improving your talent and don't be afraid to share it with the world. They all need a little of the beauty you have to share.

Andrew; I want you to know that you are equally talented in the creative aspect and I loved your sonic cartoons. That story line flowed so well and the animations were awesome. You have come so far since the first time I saw that sketch book of yours, and you are so dedicated to always being a better artist. Your passion for sketches and animation are beyond amazing and I know that you are going to do great things with that incredible focus you have. When you are dedicated to something, you see it through and there is no hell or high water that will stop you. I love that about you.  You are such a sweet hearted man, and just an all around good guy. I love you so much. Keep drawing always, and know that even if I cannot tell you to your face, I am always here in my corner of the internet praying for your success in life. I love you beyond word, "kid" and I want you to know that. I am so proud of you.

For as long as you cannot be a part of my life, every card I make and cannot send you will be posted here. every song I write or sing about you will be here on this blog. And I will never stop trying to show you how loved you are.

even if only in this little corner of the internet, I want you both to know that this family has never left you. We have and always will love you both more that can ever be expressed. This letter is the only way I have left to tell you that. Please do not ever forget how much we love you. If you ever need or want us in your life, we and I especially, have and always will be here for you no matter what distance of length or time is put between us. We are here to tear apart playstations with you, take you on photo explorations, go to the movies, drive you to family parties and deliver hugs and cookies whenever you need.  If you ever get to read this, know always that we do love you. And do not ever let go of that fact.

We all miss you terribly, but by some power in heaven, I hope that the love I am sending you reaches you somehow and that someday I will get to hug you both again. Until then, be strong and well "kiddos". And no, I will NEVER stop calling you that. You are always "Kiddos" to me. :p

Love,

Aunt Jett and Family.