Vision Book Workshop - Let's Dream Together

This workshop is FULL!

But, you are welcome to sign up for my

April 21st Vision Book Workshop!

All details the same
New Location:
FUNitude Art Studio in Novato
(address given upon registration)

Join me for a FUN art workshop where you will begin to create a Vision Book using the altered book collage method. A Vision Book is like a Vision Board only in a book! This way you can carry it around or move it from room to room easily in order to gaze upon its pages and enjoy its images and messages. You can include anything in your Vision Book – images and messages that make you feel good and inspire you, places you would like to visit, activities you want to try…anything! Your imagination is unlimited…

I will provide instruction on how to prep your book, different collage methods, and tips on how to make it beautiful. You will leave with 2-3 pages completed and ideas to continue your creative and fun Vision Book journey.

I will provide all the supplies you will need such as:
Books
Magazines
Beautiful papers and ribbon
Rubber stamps and Stamp pads
Feathers
Glitter glue
Colorful sparkly gems
Markers/oil pastels
Glue sticks
Scissors and more…
There will also be complimentary tea and cookies to munch on as we create!
You are welcome to bring some of your favorite images and old magazines.

And, the fabulous Mixed Media Collage Artist, Tamara Holland, will be on hand to add to the FUN!

Workshop Facilitator & FUNmaster: Marilyn LoRusso
Date: Saturday, March 10th, 1-4 pm
Place: Bean Up The Nose Art Studio
2 Florence Avenue San Anselmo
Cost: $35
To reserve a space in this fun & creative Vision Book Workshop
please email:  marilynlorusso@sbcglobal.net

Space is limited so sign up soon!

Next Vision Book Workshop April 21st!

New Location: FUNitude Art Studio in Novato

(address given upon registration)

Marilyn LoRusso is the CFO (Chief FUN Officer) at FUNitude HeartQuarters. She believes it’s all about your FUNitude and raising your FQ (FUNtelligence Quotient). For Marilyn it is all about feeling inspired and focusing on the best in any situation – feeling good, no matter what! Life is supposed to be FUN!

When you add a sense of FUN to any situation, it transforms the experience for you and everyone around you! She writes the column “For the LOVE of Kids” for The Patch online news site and has published a series of ebooks entitled “Celebrating Children – Conversations with Kids.” She has been an arts and crafter her entire life, has taught art classes to children and now wants to spread FUN, JOY and ART to “children” of all ages!

Marilyn has a B.S. from Northwestern University, an M.S. from Columbia University and an F.S. (FUNmaster of Science) from Life University. She is currently working on her Doctorates in FUNology from Eternity University.

Celebrating Children and The Funny, Poignant & Clever Things They Say!

I am always fascinated by the minds of the magnificent little ones amongst us.  I love their clarity, inherent joy, humor and general connection with all that is.  Children remind us that there is only love.  They remind us to stay present and open to all the possiblities of life. 

I enjoy tuning into the minds of children and celebrating the child in all of us.  When we allow children to be who they are, they grace us with their inherent knowledge and inspirations.  They then become all they are meant to be, in this magnificent expanding world and global community we live in.

I am forever inspired by children and their focus, openness and never ending search for FUN.  On my journey I have come across a 3 year old who wants to become an orchestra conductor and I witnessed his abilities in front of a youth orchestra.  I have met a 7 year old voice over actress who has very specific dreams and desires.  I made traveling postcards with kids that were intent in their desire to send love and friendship to orphans in Mexico.  I experienced the excitement of children as they ate free ice cream cones or played with kittens and puppies at an adoption outpost.

I was priviledged to see two 7 year old best friends decorate cupcakes together as they shared funny stories.  I was touched as shy children opened up enough to read to listening dogs at a local library.  I saw the awe in childrens' eyes as they watched a magician perform a show or were fascinated by the simple way to make butter.

I have interviewed these children and many more to create my first 2 in a series of fun, uplifting ebooks.
These actual convesations with children are touching, funny and inspirational.  I hope you enjoy these stories as much as I have enjoyed writing them and hearing all the funny, poignant and clever things kids say... 

  Click Here to see my books in the Amazon Kindle Store

Amazon Reviews:

A view into the simple joy of childrens' minds

Marilyn LoRusso shares special moments in the presence of young wisdom. Each story has its own world. Even more than the kids' clever sweetness, I enjoyed the window into the author's work and her deep connection with children. LoRusso has a strong, clean writing style. Highly recommended as a heartwarming and uplifting read. - Suzanna Stinnett, Author of Sugar Divorce & The 4 Hour Publisher

Childhood in the words of children

Marilyn LoRusso's conversations with children took me back to the days when my own children were discovering the world and making it anew in the ways in which they delighted in each new discovery with such enthusiasm. Reading LoRusso's book I was struck by the deep respect she has for children, and how seriously she takes the business of fun in life. Her book highlights poignant moments, some happy, others difficult, but rendered heartfelt through the children's words who speak of these. LoRusso is an extraordinary ambassador who brings back both the light and lightness of childhood in her accounts of her encounters with children and their world. - M. Benet, Author of Mapmaker of Absences

Coming Soon!

"For the LOVE of Kids..."

I have been having so much FUN writing my column, "For the LOVE of Kids..."

every Wednesday for the Larkspur-Corte Madera Patch! 

I report on FUN family events, review children's movies, books, kid friendly restaurants

and interview kids along the way!

You are welcome to browse my columns...

 

"Wyndano's Cloak" by A.R. Silverberry

BOOK SOLD OUT AT BORDERS!

A.R. Silverberry's novel, Wyndano's Cloak, delivers a message of encouragement for young people to believe in themselves and trust the treasures they carry inside. The book has won six awards, including a Gold Medal in the 2010 Readers Favorite Awards, Preteen Category; and rave reviews, including these:

"Silverberry weaves a magical tale . . . chock full of everything a great fantasy novel needs; dashing young men, adventures galore, treachery, love and intrigue . . . I highly recommend this book for pre-teens and young adults, it’s an excellent foray into the genre of fantasy books. The fact that there are two strong, capable female main characters makes it exceptionally appropriate for girls this age." Karlynn Johnston.

". . . A coming-of-age soon to be classic that is certain to keep kids entertained and away from the TV and video game system for long stretches." Reader's Choice Book

“Wyndano’s Cloak, an engaging adventure with an extraordinary heroine, captures the courage and sense of adventure that lies in the heart of all young girls.” Sandra Martz, editor, When I Am an Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple

He will be appearing at Borders Books San Rafael, September 25th, 2 - 4 PM.  He is partnering with Drawbridge, an expressive arts program that serves homeless children in the Bay Area; a portion of author profits will benefit Drawbridge in these events.

A.R. grew up in Marin, attending Homestead Elementary, Red Hill Middle School, Drake High, COM, and Dominican College; and currently lives in Santa Cruz County. More information about him, the novel, and his charitable fundraising are on his website.

And, here is a link to his most recent blog post which thanks me for my appearance!
so sweet!  blog post



"Whales, Whales, Whales!"

I just returned from a magnificent day gray whale watching off the cliffs of Bodega Head in the town of Bodega Bay.  It was windy and cold but there were about a hundred of us scattering bodega head and the nearby cliffs.  There were lots of ooohs and aaahs as large gray whales broke the ocean's surface.  There were 6 different whales spotted while I was there.  They were spouting, surfacing and spyhopping.  Spyhopping is when they lift their heads out of the water.  There was alot of group spouting and surfacing.  I could see their shiny black backs and knuckle ridged spines. After they submerged I could see an elongated, smooth oval of calm water, known as a footprint.  Gray whales travel 10,000-14,000 total miles during their migration.  That is the longest migration of any mammal.  They migrate north in the spring and south in the winter.  They are actually born black but appear gray because of all the barnacles and scarring. 

Young and old were ignoring the wind and cold as we all shared the FUN moments as the gray whales put on a show for all of us!  Seagulls swooped near the whales and soared over the cliffs.  We were all connected, smiling and laughing as we shared these magic moments!

Ofcourse, on the way back I had to stop and have my favorite fish tacos at The Island Style Deli in Bodega Bay.  They seemed extra delicious today!

Watching gray whales playing in the ocean always raises my FUNtelligence Quotient!

"Early Morning Ride!"

If you have been to my blog before you know my husband and I LOVE riding our motorcycle together.  We love exploring all the beauty of northern California.  Today we took our motorcycle out at 8:45am since the temperature was heading towards 100 degrees!  We decided to ride to Point Reyes Station in West Marin for breakfast.  The ride past Stafford Lake, the Nicasio Reservoir, Olema and into the town of Point Reyes Station was spectacular.  The bodies of water were like glass as they reflected the sky and hills above.  Hawks were perched high above scoping breakfast below.  Winding through the trees and feeling the early morning air was exhilarating.  We arrived in Point Reyes Station at 9:30am. 

We stopped at one our favorite breakfast spots, The Pine Cone Diner.  Their motto is: "Good Food with Prickly Service."  We have been eating there for years.  There are tables outside in the sun and tables and a counter inside.  Gina has been our server for years - we feel like regulars.  The diner is decorated with vintage decor.  And the food is good!  Robert loves their egg scrambles and hash browns.  Today we shared a tofu/egg scramble with crispy hashbrowns and english muffin.  Gina created this dish with eggs, tofu, spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, jack cheese and caramelized onions.  It was so yummy!  Many locals eat there and we love the homey feel of The Pine Cone Diner.  Always a FUN time.

When we went outside to our motorcycle, which had been parked by itself, it was now surrounded by a group of Harley's with their owners.  They were the sweetest group of guys from the East Bay.  They called themselves the "Wednesday Morning Riding Posse."  It was so FUN talking with them about their bikes, rides and group.  They were headed to the coast and we headed home to get out of the heat.  We returned home by 11:00am. 

Early morning rides with Robert always raises my FUNtelligence Quotient!

                                                       

"This was in the Cat Bowl this Morning!"

"Belated Birthday Bash!"

Well, maybe it wasn't quite a "bash" but if you've read one of my blog posts before  you know I LOVE alliteration AND I love celebrating my birthday, even if it is a month later!  My friend, Liz (@moviemouse on twitter) had wanted to treat me to a birthday day.  Of course, life happens, and we decided on August 19, exactly one month after my real birthday!

We started with a 3 mile walk around Pacheco Valle, where we both live, and have been walking together for the last 9 years.  Pacheco Valle has a 1 mile sidewalk path that is a complete circle around the valle and sometimes we feel like hamsters walking around and around and around.  We both have decided that walking and talking is our favorite type of exercise!  We love talking about the beauty all around us and appreciating our wonderful lives.  We love focusing on thoughts that feel good and practicing our better feeling "stories."

After our walk we went to my friends garden to harvest tomatoes, basil, mint (used to make mojitos tonight), apples and flowers.  I love eating tomatoes right off the vine.  I tried to control myself from eating too many since our next stop (after showers) was to Toast Restaurant in Novato.  I love the food at Toast, especially their roasted beet and spinach salad with fresh goat cheese, red onions and balsamic dressing (I have them add avocado).

Liz had the Chinese Chicken Salad.  They were both so delicious.  When Patty, the manager, heard we were celebrating my birthday (even though it was a month late) she treated us to a dessert of our choice.  The salads are very large and I was so full but we decided on a citrus cake with fresh berries (blueberries & strawberries - my favorite berries) and whipped cream.  All I can say is WOW! We ate the whole thing!  Thank you Toast Restaurant for a wonderful belated birthday lunch and complimentary dessert.  (Did you know that Toast does not have a corkage fee when you bring your own wine).

Then we headed off to see the movie, "Eat Pray Love."  Liz had read the book (I had not) and we both had gone to see Elizabeth Gilbert talk a few months ago about her new upcoming book that takes over where "Eat Pray Love" left off.  We both enjoyed the movie very much!  It was the end of a wonderful belated birthday bash day!

Celebrating my belated birthday with my good friend always raises my FUNtelligence Quotient!

"Having FUN with My Grandson, Evan!"

Wow! What a wonderful 3 days we had!  My 7 1/2 year old grandson, Evan, came for a visit ( he lives about 1.5 hours away).  I remember thinking when he was about 3 years old how FUN it would be when he could stay over night and we could do FUN things together! 

I met my daughter-in-law half way and the three of us spent a few hours in Alamo Creek Park in Vacaville.  Then Evan and I headed to Mrs. Grossman's Sticker Factory in Petaluma.  We arrived just as a tour was starting.  We watched a 20 minute video about the history of the business and how stickers are made, with about 50 other kids and adults.  Then we were taken on a great factory tour, seeing all the machines, inks, huge rolls of stickers and more.  We had a wonderful tour guide who would ask the kids questions and give them stickers for answering (right or wrong!).  Then we all went into the project room where they give you lots of stickers and a postcard to decorate.  Then of course, a visit to the sticker store!  We had a wonderful time.  We had sticker projects for the next three days!  That night I went to sleep early.  Robert, Evan and Asia made popcorn and watched The Little Mermaid.

The next day Evan came with me to my Toastmasters meeting.  He took on the role of "jokemaster" and told 2 jokes in front of the group.  He was so poised, adorable and funny!  He enjoyed the meeting so much he told me he wanted to be a Toastmaster!

These are the jokes he told: 

"What weighs 5,000 lbs and wears glass slippers?"

(answer: "Cinderelephant"). 

"What do you get when you cross SpongeBob Square Pants with Albert Einstein?"

(answer: "SpongeBob Smarty Pants")

Then we had a picnic lunch with my friend, Sally, played on the "beanbag mountain" at Mary's Futons, visited Robert at Lights of Rafael, and stopped at the Pet Arcade to pet the kittens, puppies and see fish, lizards and bunnies.  Then off to a FUN store in Novato, Dollhouses, Trains & More.  This is an amazingly large store filled to the brim with trains, collectibles, dolls, miniatures and more.   There are fully set up train and holiday villages that you can turn on to watch the movement.  We stayed for 2 hours playing with all the hands on exhibits that are extremely kid friendly.  We both had so much FUN exploring and choosing some fun miniatures for our collections.  They have the largest miniature collection in the United States!  Prices are reasonable too.

That evening we had a power outage for 3 hours. We lit candles, made a fire, and played hand shadows on the ceiling with flashlights.  Our cat, Asia, loved watching the flashlights.  We also played improv/word/story games. (Asia just listened...)

The next day we took a nature walk around Pacheco Valle.  We saw deer with their babies, visited the secret garden and walked over bridges and streams.  Then we had lunch at the Northgate Mall at Chipolte and dessert at Berry Swirl, where you can make your own yogurt sundaes!  Robert met his son half way and made the grandson exchange!

Spending time with my grandson, Evan, always raises my FUNtelligence Quotient!

                                              

"Sandy Sentiments!" (from the Jersey Shore)

 

                        

  

                

"Letter Flip" is Flipping FUN!

I love word games! I received "Letter Flip" for my birthday and lovelovelove it!  I brought it with me to the Jersey Shore when I went to visit.  It travels well, is light, no little parts to lose, waterproof and is great FUN.

My long time childhood friend and I have been playing "Letter Flip" on the beach at every chance we get.  We are a bit addicted!  Each round takes about 20-30 minutes and we keep saying "one more round."  We have played in the sun, in the rain and realized if we each had the game we could play over the phone!  She lives on the east coast and I live on the west coast. 

Today I was on the beach at 8:30am and she came to play "Letter Flip" at 9:30am.  She said only for an hour and we played for 2 hours!  I wonder if there is a "Letter Flip Anonymous."

Being on the beach with my good friend and playing "Letter Flip" always raises my FUNtelligence Quotient!

FUN in NYC!

What a great day in NYC!  My long time friend and I took the train in to the city to see a Broadway Show Matinee.  We were headed to Tickets at Times Square to see what was available.  On our way we were offered discount seats to the musical "Memphis."  We decided to go straight to the box office and get seats.  It is a tony awarding winning musical!  With tickets in hand and 2 hours before show time, we wandered up and down the side streets, window shopping and people watching.  Times Square is bustling with tourists, live music, street vendors and tons of energy!  We stopped at a year round costume shop and "Michael Jackson" wandered in dressed in full costume to buy a sparkly microphone. 

We ate at Smith's Bar Restaurant and shared a delicious eggplant, onion, cheese panini and salad.  It was so nice to hang out at the cafe talking old times, new times and people watching.  We continued on to the Shubert Theater where we had center mezzanine seats.  "Memphis" was fantastic!  I loved the music, singing, dance numbers, actors and overall production.  A wonderful story about the underground blues clubs in Memphis in the 1950's and how the music became mainstream when DJ's introduced the music on the radio.  Broadway sets, costumes and energy are always so magical!  When the actors took their final bows the entire audience was standing, singing and dancing.  We all danced our way out of the theater.  New York audiences are incredible!

We wandered slowly back to Grand Central Station to catch our train back to the Jersey Shore. 
Below are some FUN images of New York City!

A FUN day in NYC with my childhood friend always raises my FUNtelligence Quotient!