Back in the Saddle...

Hello Family, 

So, I am Back in the Saddle Again! After taking a few years off from triathlon, living abroad and such, I am back participating and training in a sport I truly enjoy!With any sport, comes training and exercise--a vital thing needed to continue and improve or just not pass out as you attempt to cross the finish line. 

Well, here is a lesson learned quickly on a weekly ride I took this past Monday. I was excited to enjoy one of the last days of summer (at least around these parts) with a 13.5mile bike ride. Seeing as though I knew the route, I didn't think it necessary to take my phone. I mean, for what, I only use it to track my distances.  Yeah, can you see where this is going...

On the route, which is a lovely bike path called the Oak Leaf Trail, I have the opportunity to cross several bridges. Typically no issue, but on Monday, I hit the bridge with an awkward BOOM! Still riding along, all seemed well and no damage done. Pausing to take a drink, the furthest point from my apartment, I find myself moving slower and slower. I have a rear flat! No worries, I think, I have the emergency kit, I'm good. 

Keep in mind, this is an emergency kit I haven't practiced with in years and am not really sure where to begin. Fortunately  chivalry is alive in the Midwest! Casey and R.C., who happened to build motor-bikes, like the ones of Harley- Davidson fame (also born and bred in Milwaukee), assist with the change. And I am up and off again! 20 feet later, I realize I not only had one flat, but TWO! Are you kidding me? Yes, both tires popped and only one spare and no phone. 

Sadly, with every noise you can imagine, I made my way, riding my bike, back to the house. Praying each way, each pump of the pedal, "Dear God, PLEASE let me make it home!" Great thing about the Oak Leaf Trail is it's all shadowed; so you stay cool on hot days. Scary thing, when you are on a flat, heading home at dusk, is it's all shadowed! 

I am thankful to report I made it home, the rim is still in tacked and I still need a new tire. Needless to say, I ran yesterday and did Cross Training today!

The Best is Yet to Come!

If you have a VISION, you don't need a resolution!

Happy New Year Family!! We made it to 2011 and I am so thankful to be in another year. I truly believe this is going to be the BEST YEAR of my life (so far)!

Last night I attended the mid-night New Year's Eve service at my church. It is often referred to as "Watch-Night" service in the "Black-Church." We had a guest Pastor, ministering by the name of Evangelist/Pastor Shane Perry. I want to share with you the highlights from his message in italics, because I was so struck!! I literally felt like specific points from his message could be a recap of the last two years of my life. So of course, I would be remiss if I didn't pass this along...

The scripture reference was Luke 1:37, "For with God NOTHING is impossible." Now, I could stop right here! Because this is truth alone, but I won't do you like that... I am also including my 2 cents in between.

Point 1 What seems impossible today, is everyday business in my future! From a personal perspective, being and creating art... What would you think/add? Ground yourself with people that are going to challenge you! Have you met the ladies of the BTC? My friend Maria? or Monica. These ladies keep you focused and encourage you!! I'm just saying is all.

KEY IDEA: Create a motivating factor and don't wait for one! Wow! Get RID of the negative people in your life. And know a Hater is an unfulfilled person.

Point 2 Unrealistic goals are the only goals worth having! ( I don't know, like quitting your job and moving to another continent, in pursuit of a dream) If you can do it on your own, why do you need God? You have to have smaller goals to support it. Small victories let you know you are on the Fast Track to your dream.

Point 3 Get ready to move into a new realm! What you have right now doesn't deserve you!! Everything in your life has to "STEP-UP"  with me being a King's Kid!!

The Best is Yet to Come dear friends! Want to keep up with the new realm? Follow me on Twitter@FotoFans

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out!

Hello Family,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!! Well, I am keeping my commitment by at least updating my blog once a month. Now I realize it is the end of the month, the last week of the month, the last Monday of the month, but hey, I'm keeping my word!

So what is the latest with this little Foto Bella. Well, where to begin... 2010 has been filled with ups and downs, but I am sure I am not the only one who can tought this testimony. In the end, the good out ways the bad and I keep placing one foot in front of the other.  I am fortunate to have taken numerous trips to Florida for work as an education consultant, numerous trips to Chicago for fun, enrichment and running my first 1/2 marathon outside of the great state of Tennessee, a few trips to the 'Ville, one for an exhibition at my alma mater, Fisk University!!

As for my art, I have had several shows in Milwaukee (Nashville) and already have three shows booked into the first three months 2011. My work continues to evolve, and I am using more recycled materials... All the hard work is paying off and I have recently been selected as a featured artist for ABEA-Wisconsin! Click the link to see my feature page... I feel very honored to be with such company!

So now, the big question often is, Where are you now?! Well, I am in Milwaukee and it looks like I will be making roots here thanks to the Milwaukee Art Museum! But that's a story for another post... I have to go and find a my long winter coat!

Many blessings and See you next year!