Adult coloring has recently become a good friend of mine. Actually, it has become an addiction!
In September 2017, I was browsing Jack’s Discount store in New York City’s Herald Square, when I ran across coloring books and markers. I immediately picked up a book and some markers at $1.99 each–hey, WHAT A BARGIN!! I was fascinated when I saw them because a while back, I assessed a senior citizen program I monitor and saw that one of their activities was coloring–which I thought was so cool!
Since taking up with this new activity, I stopped sleeping on my train ride home to and/or from work, which is an hour either way. I know I should be aware of my surroundings, but with my music playing in my ears along with my book and pencils in hand, coloring away, its easy yo get lost in my little coloring world. Before I know it, I’m at my stop and strangely enough, I kinda wish I had more stops o go. It’s undoubtedly relaxing and even more, releases the stresses of my mind for the time I’m coloring! Who knew?!
I started out using cheap markers, graduated to Sharpies and then discovered there is a wide community of colorists/artists out there coloring adult style. This is where I realized how popular colored pencils are; in particular, Prismacolor and Faber-Castell Polychromos pencils, and then some…
Below are some of the pages I’ve colored thus far, in deep, rich colors of which I have found is my coloring technique; however, I do like light colors to contrast against the dark tones.
Calm Waters Studios presents Flower Power, An Anti-Stress Coloring Book
Pages from my first coloring book were all colored with Sharpies
My Bermuda Coloring Book Series 3 by Gretchen Gurr
This book I purchased on my trip with the Capital Jazz SuperCruise September 2017. Check out The Sight of Sound by Sista Suga to see past reviews on Capital Jazz Cruises.
These two pages are mixed with Sharpies and Prismacolor pencils
This Is The Day The Lord Has Made Inspirational Coloring Book
I am most proud of this bird to date; all completed with Prismacolor Pencils
Also from This Is The Day The Lord Has Made Inspirational Coloring Book Completed with Black Widow Colored Pencils
This was one of my WIP (work in progress) from The Coloring Book of Positivity
Here it is completed
Davlina’s Art, Dollardiva99, Chris Cheng, and Erin of Simple Art for Adults have inspired my coloring and they share valuable coloring tips and techniques you can check out should you become interested in adult coloring.
Greetings and a warm salutation to everyone, especially to all of the women who’s curiosity were piqued enough to take a moment to drop in on this post! I want to send my regards to you for being among the active living and compliment each one of you on doing all you can to keep YOU in the best health possible so that you can continue to enjoy YOUR life!
Here are a few musical, inspirational selections for you to enjoy! May they remind you that YOU ARE SOMEBODY, and YOU ARE SPECIAL, if to no one else but you, so be it! Shine on Sista!
I received an email from one of the director’s of a program I oversee, asking me if I would be interested in making a presentation in recognition of Women’s History Month; needless to say, I was truly honored. I could not make the presentation, therefore, I wrote it out and emailed it to her. I didn’t find out until I returned to work that the email never made it to her 😦
These were the guiding questions she asked for talking points:
Who are you, Roles, Experiences; and I was fine with all of that until I read… What defines you as a woman?
I had to really think about how to respond to this question because I never think about myself in that way. WOW! It was a bit difficult for me to wrap my head around a response and I had to dig a little for some answers. The first thing I thought about was what I do for others—family, friends, and the likes. I realized I had to isolate myself from those initial assumptions.
I asked some of the women I am close to, to answer the question and couple of them responded immediately and others had to think about it like me. Of course, you do not have to go into details as I did, but just by answering the question, “what defines you as a woman” would be really interesting to learn more about you, that would spark some dialogue. Please leave your comment below, I would appreciate it much!
So this is what I shared:
Who are you: Roles and Experiences
I have been working with the City of New York for the past 28 years, 14 with Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and 14 with The Department for the Aging. When I came to DFTA in 2002, I worked with the WRAP (Weatherization Referral and Packaging) Unit, and in 2012 began working with the NORC Unit as a Program Manager, overseeing DFTA and City Council Funded NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) programs in Brooklyn and Manhattan. To say the least, it has been an eye-opening experience to see the work NORC staff does to assist with helping seniors age healthy in their own home.
My name is Pamela Nichols and I am a wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt to my family. To ME, I am a photographer, videographer, DJ, and graphic artist—enthusiast of all, jack of some, and master of a few. I never thought of myself as being the creative type but discovered in my later years that, maybe there is an artistic bone that lives within my body.
I was a late bloomer when it came to education. I decided to take a break after graduating high school, and shortly after became a mom in my early twenties. I was lucky to have such a supportive family that permitted me to enroll in a community college where I made the Dean’s List in my first year which was a very proud moment for me.
A couple of years later I decided again, to take a break from school to find employment as I felt unfulfilled with just going to school—at that time I was approaching my thirties and had not yet established myself with gainful employment. I was just about to turn 30 years old when I landed a position with the City of New York and have been here ever since. I am gleefully looking forward to retirement in a few years!
In 1998, I returned to school and didn’t stop until I completed my master’s degree in 2008. I know, ten years it took me to finish but I did it! I was not in a rush as I had a full-time job; attaining my education was something I wanted to accomplish for ME, not for anything or anyone else, just me. I am forever grateful I was able to further my education with the push and support of my sister, Danielle.
For the most part, I paid my tuition out of pocket and, in 2004 I graduated with my Bachelors in Corporate Communications. It had always been important to me to be a good communicator and be mindful of presenting myself in a respectable manner in addition to learning the business culture of communications. In 2008, I graduated with my Masters in Urban Affairs. Since I had already been working with the City for 20 years, I had no plans on specializing in a particular “career” path. However, learning about how government, businesses, neighborhoods, and individual initiatives were all united to improve the quality of life and build wealth in urban communities while solving emerging issues, helped me to understand how the city and non-profits work hand in hand.
A woman’s innate attributes are obvious, WE ARE:
Nurturing
Compassionate
Sensitive
Perceptive
Empathetic
Sensual
Emotional
And possess strengths we, at times, cannot account for
What defines Pam as a woman?
I know when it’s time to take a break, in order to recharge my batteries
My happiness begins with me!
My confidence is quiet (like me at times). It is my natural expression of ability, expertise, and self-regard.
Although I am a mature woman, the girlie girl still lives inside of me
Things come fruition when I put my mind to it
My independence means:
I don’t have to ask for permission to live my life the way I see fit
I don’t have to do things with manipulation
I determine my own schedule, values, and priorities, I am self-reliant
I Am:
A leader who positively encourages others
A Boss. Period
Patient, Easy Going, and Warm
Perceptive and Trustworthy
I live within myself by accepting the things I’d like to change about me but cannot
Last but definitely not least, I would not be who I am without the grace of God who has bestowed many blessings upon me and my life.
Giving honor to the women who helped shaped my life:
My mother, grandmother, and aunt…
All eight of my lovely sisters inspire me to no end! They are dynamic Women, who hold their own and are UNSTOPPABLE! I love and adore you!!
In 2015, I posted a Women’s Herstory Month tribute where with a good cup or glass of something soothing, I hope you enjoy this read!
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO CELEBRATE YOU!
Dr. Angelou defines a WOMAN best, and I personally identify with Phenomenal Woman
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Now you understand
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
‘Cause I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
In honor of Women’s HerStory Month/International Women’s Day I thought it would be appropriate for me to take a moment to reflect on the women I admire, respect, honor and whose inspiration has touched me in more ways than many.
Women ROCK and I’ve always said that we can run this world; what do you think?
Women’s HerStory in the Making!
I am ecstatic for the opportunity to celebrate the women in my life, my circle and those far and near including those I have yet to meet face to face. From an array of disciplines including, but not limited to: music, graphic arts, education, singers, writers, designers, photographers, technology, activists, advocates, entrepreneurs, health and human services, finance, and fitness trainers these women have made a great impact on me and in many ways my life. Most of them may not even be aware of my high regard for them.
Here are a few musical, inspirational selections for you to enjoy! May they remind you that YOU ARE SOMEBODY, and YOU ARE SPECIAL, if to no one else but you, so be it! Shine on Sista!
I know many of you personally and some of the tribulations you have endured with significant-other relationships, family, the loss of loved ones, and health issues; yet you continue to push forward. Life-threatening illnesses have ravaged your body, mind, and spirit, leaving you emotionally drained. Yet you are still here, as God has kept you fighting to show your strength to others. You are sweet, bold, charming, outspoken, kind, even brazen at times; you’ve overcome adversity yet many of you maintain living with it and keep a smile on your face, constantly encouraging others without a second thought.
By the same token, YOU are experiencing wonderful and fulfilling moments of merit and prosperity, where you display incredible energy that spreads like wildfire!! I have been observing you excel from one level to the next, making great strides in your community and personally. You exhibit your wealth of knowledge and demonstrate positivity to those in which you come in contact. I admire your intelligence and learn from your experiences more than you know. You have worked really hard at what you do; your talents have been observed by people in the right places that propelled you to higher heights, nationally and internationally!!
It takes a tenacious, persistent woman to prepare her mind and body to decide now is the time to change your unhealthy eating habits and exercise for better health and a longer lifespan. You did that and huney, you look good!! I’m so proud of you!
You deserve recognition, support and most of all love—right now because you are doing the DAMNED thing—making HerStory NOW!
Hopefully, you will take a moment, a minute, an hour, a day or whatever it takes to do something extraordinary for yourself, sometime real soon. Give yourself the flowers you have truly earned (whatever those flowers may be!). I am telling you, you truly deserve them for all you do and have done for others, forsaking yourself, instead of putting YOU first.
Gurl, just
Cheers Ladies!!!
This tribute is for you, my Sistas!! If you don’t see your name here, it does not mean I don’t love you;, blame it on my mind and not my heart–you are there.
The Honorees Are:
Abby Dobson
Adriane Ferguson
Adrienne Powers – My sister
Ajsha Pullin
Alecia Gillard
Alicia Hammond
Alethea Hardin
Alice TurboFleur
Alison Crockett
Alison Murry
Allecia Frye
Amma Whatt
Andrea Greene
Angel Monique
Angela Johnson
Anita Bryant
Anja
Annita Utra Shivdyal
Ann Marie Collymore
Annmarie Reynolds
Anshia Tull
Antoinette Jeanine
Antonia Jenae’
Ayesha Payne
Barbara McCarthy
Calandra Branch
Candy Davis
Caprice Starbrite Toddman
Carmen Berry
Carmen Farnum
Carmen Rodgers
Carole Eady
Carol Riddick
Catina Blackmon Jackson
Cecilia Nolasco
Chante Ramsey
Choklate Moore
Chris Sidifall
Clementine Jackson
Colleen Rubino
Collette Blakeney
Cynthia Cruz
CynDiva Harcum
Danielle Davis – My sister
Danielle Hatchett
Daphne Lipford – My sister
Darlene Whittaker
Darnelle Gillisslee
Deborah Bond
Deborah Heffernan Hinds
Deone Murph Holder
Deeyjay Renay
Dereth Howell
Detrel Howell-Sapp
Dianne BestEver Nelson
Dianne Mommaship Washington
Doreen Massiah
Dyneka L. Lewis
Elsa Lathan
Emily Scott
Esnavi
Eulelia Pinky Johnson
Fiona Bloom
Frances Jaye
Francine Small
Gail DJflame Hall
Georgia Powers
Green Tea
Harron Evoria
Iman Bianca Williams
Iola Anyan
Iris Brown
Ivana Kotov
Jacqueline Nesbitt
Janice Palmer
Janita Maria
Jarmelle Anderson – My sister
JazzyBlue Visions
Jennifer Ravis
Joann Gomez
Jodine Dorsey
Johnnie Savage-Waugh
Jolene Kay White Bethune
June Faulk
June Felix
Karen Bernod
Karen Smith
Kai Lane
Kateria Niambi
Kathy Powers – My sister
Kathy Watkins
Kathy Wilkins
Katie Piper
Kaylan Nelson
KeJuan Stroud
Kelli Sae
Kendra Ross
Kerri Simmons
Kierra Benefield
KiKi Kawkins
Kim Hernandez
Kim Namaste Berry
Kimberly Hines
Kimberly-Howell-Johnson
Kimberly Nichole
Kitchen Rebel
Kym Scott
Lady Vee Ongpauco
La’Kiesha Underwood
Lalah Hathaway
Lambert Houses Sistas
LaShawn Jacobs
Latisha Banks
Laura Garris
LaVerne Francis
LaVonne Thompson
Ledisi
Leslie McNair-Wilder
Linda Simmons
Linda Taylor Pryor
Lisa Bryant
Lisa Stanton
Liv Warfield
Lorenda Robinson
Lori Leff
Lorraine Bailey
Louella Byers
Luznerida Rosado
Lydia Berry-Pearson
Macheka Williams-Roach
Marie Rush
Marilyn Douglas
Marlena Latif
Marlo Bracey
Mary Brown
Mary Frye
Mary Pryor
Maya Azucena
Maysa Leak
Mercy Harris
Michelle Gillenwater
Michelle Harrlem Holmes
Michelle Jenkins
Michelle R. Smith
Mika Deharlem
Mildred Fallen
Millie Barbot
Minister Rasha Patterson
Monet Cherise
Monique Thomas
MsElle Emme Esse
Natalie McGregory Henry
Nay Marie
N’Dambi
Nikki Norwood
Nina Morena
NORC Program Directors (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) are challenged in numerous ways; 100% caregivers, advocates, and nurturers to New York City’s vibrant and frail Senior Citizens!! Ladies, you are doing phenomenal work!
Norma Brown
Norma Hendricks
Pam Beck
Pamela Kellum
Pamela Henry
Pamela Nichols
Pamela Stevenson
Patience Morton
Patricia Knowles Ford
Paula Ralph-Birkett
Pepper Thomas
Perquida Williams
Phyllis Johnson
Priscilla Payne
RaRe Valverdi
Raquel Carter
Regine Ridore
Renee Michele Barton-Rose
Renee Sheffey
Robyn Frye
Rosalie Astacio
Rose Ordonez Jenkins
Ruscelle Williams
Ruth Cordero
Sandra Kizum
Sandra Faye Tucker
Sania’ Jones
Sarah J. Hill
Sarah Jones
Sarah Huny Young
Scarlet Hope (Dawn
Selina Donaldson
Shani Elliot
Sharon Quinn
Shereen Lewis
Shiane Lee
Silawn Lewis
Stacey Sheffey
Stephanie Renee
Stephanie Thomas Gonzalez- My sister
Stevie Robinson
Sunshine Brown
Sy Smith
Tahesha Paige
Tonya L. Brown
Tonya Johnson
Tara Powers – My sister
Theresa Thomas
Tiffany Taylor
TJ Scruggs
Tonya Dillard-Johnson
Tonya L. Brown
Tra’ Love Peace
Tracey Hodges
Tracy Freeman
Tracy Laramore
Tracy Lymus
Tracy Lynn Deis
Tricia Angus
Trina Broussard
Valerie Smith
Vanessa El
Vanessa Hill
Vee Lisa C Walker
Victoria Warren
Vivian Sessoms
Wanda Bennett
Wandetta Benton
YahZarah
Zoila Noella
My mother, Ernestine Blutcher Thomas Webb, my sister Sophia Thomas, and my grandmother Arrie Lee Cox Blutcher are at rest but are included in this tribute because of their words of encouragement, wisdom, and everlasting love. There is an empty place in my life for all of them as I miss their faces, hugs, and kisses, but most of all their voices, because no matter how near or far, they were just a mere phone call away…
I’m sure that there are more women who have touched my life in one way or another and if I have not mentioned her here, I can only attribute it to my mind, and not my heart…Just knowing you has given me insight and courage to excel to aspire to be every woman I so desire to be.