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The Design Inspirationalist

~ Inspiring Ideas | Spectacular Creations

The Design Inspirationalist

Tag Archives: inspiration photo friday

Inspiration Photo Friday: Celebrations

15 Friday Nov 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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baby shower, celebrations, cousins, events, family, having a baby, inspiration photo friday, life, mom, mommy to be, new mom, parties, time

Tomorrow is my cousin’s baby shower and I am so excited for her and her husband on their new arrival. Just last year we were celebrating their wedding and now a little girl is on the way. The event is being held at my aunt’s house and I have helped her with some of the items for the party. From the invites and thank you’s to the favor tags and signs, it has been such a pleasure to design everything and be a part of this special day. I will be sure to write up a post on the event soon!

There are so many things to celebrate in a person’s life. Having a baby is definitely one of them. I have watched my cousin grow up and become such a beautiful woman and now I soon get to watch her become a mom. They also just bought their first house so it has been quite busy over there on the Nicholson home front. And with the little one expected early January, busy will be an understatement. But tomorrow, we all get to have fun and kick back with all the lovely women in her life. Such a great day to shower Diana with love.

You know, seeing how all we’ve all changed and grown up over the years, really puts you in a nostalgic place. It shows you how time truly passes by so quickly. Being able to celebrate all the great and exciting things in our lives just makes it so much more memorable. Creating memories that will last forever and showing each other love and support is so important. It’s how our lives become richer and our bonds grow stronger.

This photo was taken 4 years ago during the holidays. It will always be one of my all time favorites of me and my cousin. I love you Di ♥ Wishing you the most fulfilling experience as a new mother and years of happiness as a family. Now let’s celebrate!

Inspiration Photo Friday: Celebrations

Inspiration Photo Friday: Onlyness

04 Friday Oct 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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Abbe Wright, art, art school, comparisonitis, design, experiences, growth, history, ideas, individuality, inspiration photo friday, life, life story, lifestyle, Mind Evolution, money, Onlyness, stree

The other night I read a great little article written by Abbe Wright. It was about the ticking clock syndrome, when people measure their lives against others milestones. It really resonated with me as I sometimes feel my age should dictate where I am in my life. Realistically, this isn’t true. People move at their own pace and depending on the experiences you have had, everyone will be at different stages of their life.

This one quote pretty much sums up the article. I wanted to share it so others can take something positive from it as well.

“Onlyness is the spot in the world only you inhabit-a mix of the history, experiences, and ideas that make up your life story. If you deny it by engaging in ‘comparisonitis’, you’ll miss your true value.”

We need to focus on our own lives and know in our hearts we are where we belong. At times when we feel we should be doing something better or different, than its time to change our path. But in no way should we compare our lives to others. If you are feeling down because others are getting engaged and married but you are single, cheer up. Ask yourself if thats what you really want right now anyway? If so, then get out there and be positive, someone will come your way. If not, live it up. Just because the people around you are having children, doesn’t mean its time to be parent too. Your life journey is unique and not like everyone else’s. Your time will come.

“There’s no schedule. Just admire your own kick-ass individuality“, is something we should all remember. Below is the poster I made for my BFA show before graduating college. It represents all my hard work and dedication. I was a little older than most when I got my degree, but at 27 years old I have been through so much, and with a ton of experience and I felt so ready and confident to move forward. The fact that my show was about my life, really gave a nod to saying goodbye to the past and greeting my future with a smile.

My greatest achievement up until then was graduating art school and creating a successful first gallery show. I was extremely proud of myself. Months later I scored my first full time graphic position in Long Island and moved from Jersey within two weeks, moved into my first apartment, and even met someone who I was with for a few years. And of course, things got in the way of my plans, but with persistence I made it happen. After six months I got laid off and had trouble finding another job, so I had to do what I could to make ends meet. Eventually, after another move, my relationship ended. I felt my life was at a standstill.

Who would have known just a few months later I would meet my current husband. I do have to say it was perfect timing. Since then, life has been challenging but I feel very lucky to be a wife, a homeowner, and a business owner – all of which I deserve to be. I have come to realize, even more so then before, that the life chosen for me wouldn’t be easy. It wouldn’t be filled with lots of money and extravagant gifts or a lifestyle where I can be carefree and less stressed. However, it has been one of many opportunities, lessons, love, change, and adventure. All of which enabled me to grow up fast and become the woman I am today. I have accomplished so much so far and no other life can compare. It’s my onlyness I live for and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Inspiration Photo Friday: Onlyness

 

Inspiration Photo Friday: Reflection

26 Friday Oct 2012

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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art, building, city, creativity, dark, design, explore, inspiration photo friday, light, manhatten, mind, modern art, MOMA, museum, new york, new york city, perspective, photography, Reflection

This will always be one of my favorite photos I’ve taken. It was captured about 5 years ago while I was visiting the MOMA in the city. I turned around to look out the window and was fascinated by my reflection and how the light perfectly lit up a scene outside where people were gathered. The street seemed bare and quiet except for that one entrance area. And I just happened to be standing right above it.

The dichotomy of this photo will always amaze me. On one side, the dark city. On the other, a moment captured through my lens showing the lighter side. Here my reflection acts as a shadow allowing the darkness to come through while the light that surrounds me, brings attention to the subjects outside. Two worlds coming together. What do you think the main subject is here? Outside the window or in?

Sometimes if you step outside yourself for a moment, you can see a much different perspective than before. Reflections don’t always show you what everyone else sees. They can offer a glimpse into a new realm where the mind can wander and explore.

Inspiration Photo Friday -  © 2012 Melissa O'Connor-Arena

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