Creative Resources

In Books/Magazines:

My favourites are Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic, which I mentioned in What is Creativity? as her book really got me thinking different about what it means to be creative and how to be gentler on myself as a writer working with my own creative genius. She also has a really neat story in her book describing the all too magical coincidence of how her genius' idea ended up with Ann Patchett's to become State of Wonder. When you read that part of the book, you'll see how State of Wonder is a geniuses' coincidence.
Also check out, State of Wonder. Which showcases Ann Patchett's true talent as a writer.

The Group of Seven and Tom Thomson (book) will give readers a greater look inside how the group evolved and continued to showcase art that was different from it's time. Along with a great chance to become familiar with some of the members distinct styles as artists. Can be found at the McMichael Art Gallery store.

 Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Simone Beck and Louisette Berthole (50th Edition)
I would say that this book was the main inspiration behind this project, wanting to learn how to cook and bake just like Julia Child did with Cordon Bleu, and then Julie Powell did with her blog-book-movie "The Julie&Julia Project" and the movie "Julie and Julia" combining two things I enjoy doing writing and baking together.

Bake from Scratch- Magazine Publication: This is what I like/love about this magazine. Not only is it chucked full of totally doable recipes, but has interviews with people in the baking/cooking industry, creative resources such as new cookbooks to check out, bloggers to check out and interesting articles throughout. In fact this is where I got my sweet potato biscuit recipe-which became a huge hit at the dinner table. I also am planning on checking out these other bloggers, as their blogs/website will have some more inspiration there. Always on the lookout for new bursts of ideas/inspiration!
Knitting for Beginners- Magazine Publication: I have loved flipping through this resource and reading on how to brush up on my knitting skills. As it has everything to help new knitters get started- from figuring out the right wool and needles; casting on to binding; many patterns and so much more. Highly recommend picking up the latest copy for anyone interested in learning or looking to improve their knitting capabilities, as it also has really cool patterns to follow throughout. A bonus: with many of the skill pages, there's a suggested link that leads to a corresponding videos on Youtube. GENIUS!


In Movies/Audio:

Harry Potter series, for more magical enchantment.

 Elizabeth Gilbert's TED Talk titled "Elusive Genius" as she explains in depth why she believes it's better to see people as having geniuses rather than being geniuses.

Julie and Julia (the movie): The initial inspiration of this endeavour. Also I've always been inspired by this movie it is a classic and great motivation to watch when I've felt uninspired.

Other resource:
The wonderful Pinterest, my recipe book before I got my own!
Every growing Youtube, best place to find how-to tutorials, and more. You can learn anything on Youtube these days!

What I'm using to knit: Bamboo knitting needles (I heart these, which have made learning easy and more successful), Patons Classic Wool Worsted, a Vivid Allon Chic Sac by JanetBasket in a super cute pattern (optional but handy for keeping knitting organized and together), the magic of Youtube and other resource websites, lastly love knitting point protectors from Walmart.

My Pastel Supplies: 
Here's a short list of the things I'm using to create for learning pastel:

  1. Pastels from The colourful world Mungyo, specifications: soft pastels for artists, finest pigment, very soft touch, 48 colours
  2. Canson Mixed Media Sketch book- 60 pgs
  3. Canson Pastel Paper- White
  4. Canson Pastel Paper- Assorted Colours
Purchased at a local Port Perry art store called Curry's, but might be able to find similar supplies at your local Michael's!

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