The words pouring out in response to my art, like a river…

This 7 day create daily challenge cracked me wide open to the realization that creativity is the driving life force helping us to reach our potential individually and as a collective. It is essential not “extra” bringing us all home to our true selves at a time the world needs our gifts more than ever. Practically speaking I had set an intention for 2019 around creating and had set an intention for 2018 around systematizing a morning routine. Neither of those things had happened yet but getting into the support and inspiration of this community somehow shifted me into a new place. A new momentum and energy that had me leaping out of bed and looking forward to my morning routine instead of it being yet another thing on my to do list. Most of all it helped me realize my anxiety around creating and the product oriented mindset that was keeping me from trying anything at all. It is such a gift to realize that creativity isn’t producing a painting but instead a way of being. I feel like I see the world and especially my house with new ideas. Where I stagnated and felt stressed about changing anything I now see a multitude of creative options for a variety of challenges and feel liberated that I can add or peel back the layers and move things around and it is all perfect and exactly as it should be. Knowing I can’t mess it up is exhilarating changing the rhythm of my life forever. I love choosing beauty everyday instead of felling guilt. I’m so very grateful to everyone for the love, support and eternal inspiration. This program made me realize connecting to your divine creative flow is the beating heart that connects us to ourselves, each other and the planet. We need YOUR irreplaceable light. This program will help you uncover, ignite or amplify your light no matter what is going on in your life if you allow it. ?✨?

Creativity is everything to me. I spent many years teaching, inspiring and enriching children in the arts. I was filled up with energy that not only fueled me, but also sparked the children’s imagination in amazing ways. But now in my retirement, I got stuck. The hours of the day were quickly passing by and at night I’d feel frustrated and swallow my yearning. So when I saw the Create Daily Challenge, I jumped on board. And I’m so happy I did.

Thank you, Amber for opening closed channels in me and for introducing techniques and tools to get my creativity flowing. The perfectionist in me used to wait until I had a block of time to create and now I understand that even with limited time, a scribble can be fun and yield something amazing with a spirit message. I have learned so much about myself – my upper limits, where my energy and time was going, the perfect practice for me. I have discovered for myself, as you have said, that small changes can move you where you want to go. Now I have a daily plan, a roadmap to my very own personal creativity. I have drawn more sketches in the last week than in the last few years. It’s time to step forward and shine my gifts.

Before the create DAILY challenge, I started the morning by reaching for my phone to check my email. Now, I start the day with storytelling, with words or paint or both.

Before the create day challenge I didn't believe I could change my life with this practice every morning. But it did! I am making this part of my every day, to make this an extension of myself. Choosing art is interesting for me because I can't draw, and felt uncomfortable with it at first. I love the idea of writing every morning as well. It was fun. That is very important to me. I needed to find myself again. Who am I? This is just one of the thing I am discovering after the create days.

Now, instead of reaching for my phone to check the latest BS, I will reach for my journal and try to remember my dreams and illustrate what comes to mind. So much more fulfilling, even though no one but me sees it. An inner life is emerging and it makes me feel centered and more Whole. Thank you Amber! I hope there will be more inspiration in the future!

Something definitely happened;before I did some painting and scrabbling once in a while and during the creative daily I surely changed. It's like something took it over from me and I play with different materials, colors. Time is just flying by and I feel so good. As a result I have a lot more energy, so I go biking and walking for hours, I play a lot more with my pets and I see beauty everywhere. I am so grateful and full of joy. Thank you for this wonderful gift.

Thank you Amber And all the wonderful creatives that hung out with me during this 7 day challenge. Everyday I gained new insights and pathways to help me sustain a creative practice. Some of the treasures I took away from this is the “permission slip”! I love that! So no beating myself up if I miss a day. I also found looking at the things that sabotage my practice a huge help because now that I have named them it is easier to say no or not now to them. Asking myself the questions why and who supports me, just made me really think and be honest. As many have said before, creating everyday makes me a better person for those around me. I am happier, kinder, and more interested. My big support is my dear hubby, who never minds me heading off to my studio, who, when we moved, insisted I had the nicest bedroom in our little flat to make my studio and who always looks at my work honestly and lovingly and very proudly shows it off. My other support is this community of people I don’t know but who are kind and loving and sweet. I appreciate the connection I make in every course I take. Finally, I have learned that for me, my practice doesn’t have to be at a specific time of day....I fit it in when and where I can, mostly in my studio in the early afternoon, but sometimes it’s sitting at the beach, or on a train or in a waiting room. I always have a sketchbook and something to make marks with. That is my practice. To just make marks everyday. Love you Guys! X

Before the create daily challenge I sometimes felt alone and invisible. Now I am ready to play, as well as feel seen, heard and accepted. Thank you.

Before the create daily, I was having a very hard time justifying a creative practice, and would draw a blank on what to do when I did find the time, now I can find something every day that I’m great full for! Thanks Amber, I am in much better touch with my self and my positive life.

Wow. I could never have imagined what a game changer this creative challenge would be for me. Before the challenge, I loved to create, but did not take my time to do it, since I'm not an artist. It was more of a bonus that I did if I had time for it. And in a life with running my own business, having two kids and a farm, that extra time rarely appeared.

When I participated in Ambers weekly retreats a couple of months ago, and made my smashjournal, something awakened in me. A longing to create daily. Still I did mostly only create during our sessions.

After this seven days in a row, creating together with you and reflection upon Ambers questions, I have realized I am a woman who need to create daily to thrive. To be the best mother I can and to serve my clients and this world in the most amazing way. During these days I have mostly painted and sculptured, and I have also got a lot of inspiration to my business.

I have therefor today, taken a part of our living room and created the sacred studio (ateljé in Swedish, as it says on the little orange sign to the left on the wall ?) that I have been dreaming of having. I am done with waiting for extra time to create. Creating is no longer a bonus me, it is crucial.

I could write a long story about all the things in my studio that I have created, but I´ll keep it short. The big painting I made a year ago, just because my kids had put out a lot of color on our table that I did not know what to do with, and I also had a canvas that was kind of broken. So then I had no ambitions to make something perfect. I just played daily for a couple of weeks, and this mandala was born. My mother, who passed away in august, said a couple of weeks before she died that it would be nice to have it hanging tilted, so today, when putting it on the wall in my studio, I tilted it. And for me, it is reminder of creating for fun. For diving deep and aligning with the creative force.

I feel that this daily creation will elevate me in all areas of my life. Thank you Amber Kuileimailani Bonnici and everyone who's been a part of this tribe. I am forever grateful for this game changer.

Here is a photo of my studio, with my smash journal open and ready and my yoga mat close to hand for pauses of movement and my rocking chair for relaxation and reflection ✨?✍️?? Aloha!

Just want to add a photo of my dragonfly that today move into the plant on my studio desk. (it´s tricky to see on the big photo). I've carved it from wood and made the wings with wire and pearls. For me it is a symbol for transformation and self realization.

This has been so exciting for me! I would really look forward to our time together and definitely made it a point to schedule it. That is something that I wouldn’t do in the past. So what really changed for me over the seven days was the realization that

I CAN Make time for my art.

Creating with the support of others in the group truly felt nurturing.

Before I started “Create Daily” with you Amber, I was really unfocused and had a zillion things going on all at once. Which really meant that I did none of them with much satisfaction. It was very stilling to devote a specific time to this particular practice. With no agenda other than to immerse myself in the moment. All of your suggestions, prompts, and personal stories really resonated with me. Thank you for this journey. I now feel strong enough to continue on a daily schedule...Amazing what a little bit of consistency can do! I hope all of the other artists are feeling the joy of the gift you have given us. Blessings to you and to all those that rode along on this creative ride with me??

Before I started the create daily, I thought I could 'do the work' without working on myself. Now I'm realizing that the work is just as much about working on 'me' as it is on 'my art.' ❤️

Before the create DAILY challenge I felt like it was all or nothing. That if I missed a day or step towards my goals then I was done. I had failed. Now I realize through the good better best and the decision matrix that I can stay on track in more manageable steps:) I’ve included two projects that were on my to do list. The serpent girl was a thorn in my side, she wasn’t turning out the way I wanted but I kept at it and the other is a piece I’ve been wanting to do for my cousin. The Serpent Girl is complete and the sunflowers are almost there:)

Before the daily challenge I felt like I was being dragged in all directions, overwhelmed with all the options and information on the "right way" to take part in having a regular practice. Now I have found clarity and focus, making it relate to what I actually want to be creating and having thoughtful reasons about the why. It's tricky as my art is tied up in my dream career so it has been so helpful to get back to discovering the "me" in my art rather than playing (or should that be painting?!) to an audience.

Before the daily challenge I was stagnant (no momentum) I had stopped writing. I had stopped valuing mySelf ?I became angry. I have been distracted with less than positive people whom have no care in the world as to how I had been trying to make "they" proud of me and happy for me.

Now, after these 7 power-full and soul waking days I am now in a place where the momentum is quietly streaming . ..I do want to create through my writing. I welcome ...I embrace more Momentum so as to keep flowing. ? I can hear Amber K.B. asking why is it important to me to keep this Momentum going? ?

Why ? To write with words that will send healing courage and create a power-full whoosh of resonance.

? thank You Amber K.B.? thank you All ???

The practices were juicy. I especially enjoyed the final collage, it told much about myself. Nothing really changed, but I experienced how urgent it is now to focus on what really has heart and meaning and not to scatter my energies. I hope to keep all this in mind <3 and write every day. PS. And whatever choices I make, they must have PASSION ja JOY in them! Now that Uranus steps into Taurus, the importance of following my own truth (and nothing but my own truth) is emphasised like never before! My truth, my path.

Before the Create daily challenge I though I could "do it all alone". Now I remember... that TOGETHER, there is nothing we can't achieve. I have been closing up for so long, it's time to break the cocoon, and take risks again. Mamma mia.... feels scary, but you have shown us a way, and that it's always possible. Thank you so much. Blessed Be!!!

For the last 8 days, every morning I became more excited to face the day. Each day started with reflection, followed by one of my many creative practices. I learned that I cannot do everything I want to do in a day without some sacrifice, although even 5 minutes is enough to please the soul in some form or another!. I also learned that I need 'me-time' in order to 'recharge my battery' so that I am able to give more.

Thank you for giving me the kick-start I needed to continue with this practice. Thanks too to all participants for the support and encouragement that you did not even know you gave! Trust in Divine Light and Love!

Before the create daily challenge, I had been struggling through my days with an increasing sense of purposelessness. I was fighting against unwanted feelings of anger, resentment, and exhaustion. Having the opportunity and encouragement to take the time every morning for myself, to start my day tuned into my own intuition and creativity, giving my energy first to myself before anyone or anything else, has completely changed the way I have been going through my days. I feel more connected to my sense of purpose because I’m creating a little bit every day. And the more I create the more energy I have. I haven’t been feeling angry or resentful about sharing my time and energy with others because I’m giving to myself first. It has been so encouraging to feel connected to a community of creative women who share the same hopes and struggles that I do. I’ve learned a lot. I’ve been able to see patterns that emerge when I reach my upper limits of comfort, and I have realized how much I’ve been trying to do without any support at all. It has been so nice to start each morning with my own recipe of creativity practice well getting to enjoy the warm and peaceful presence of Amber as she enjoys her own daily morning practice. What a special gift this experience has been.

Oh!! I actually learned SO MUCH during these days of daily creating. What was the most transformational is the kind of images, symbols and artworks that appear on the page as I draw intuitively. They inform me and hold me so much, so much that words have failed to do. And I am so happy and proud that I took up this challenge because it presented a very different amd versatile side of me, something that I didn't have a framework for earlier. It has introduced me to an aspect of me that can indeed DO and BE committed to a daily creative practice. And the most beautiful outcome is a stunning artwork that I can tangibly see and show it to the world. Having a body of work done, for me presents to me a whole new vibrant and productive side of me, that I thought I never was. So I am deeply deeply grateful to you Amber Kuileimailani Bonnici and to my own self for having chosen you and myself for this daily practice committing fully to my creativity and sending love to my sacral. Much love, Roshmila 🙂

Before the create daily, I was struggling with the after effects of a series of emotionally debilitating traumas that had led me to inaction in all the important areas of my life. I had no discipline or willpower to commit to any action even though intellectually, I understood this is what I needed to get me out of my dark place. When I saw the invite for this challenge, I hummed and hawed. I decided to go for it and got up one hour before it started every morning. I meditated, did a wake up yoga routine and ate breakfast then sat down to listen to Amber’s talk. Then I would journal my thoughts about her words and then create art. Then I pulled an oracle card to guide my intention for each day. I’m so grateful for this opportunity that this challenge gave me to start exercising my will power and discipline. A few weeks ago I read a sentence in a book that said that a lack of willpower was a sign of poor mental health. Those words shone like a beacon to me as I felt I was living the truth of that statement. And I realized that part of my healing and reconnecting to my true self would be to get back my willpower. So the program allowed me a place to exercise my willpower. I showed up everyday and did everything I wanted to do. This great start to each day helped me frame the rest of my day in a more positive and productive manner. The benefits felt great and I’m happy to say that I am continuing with it this week and am committed for the long run. I’ve even bought Robin Sharmas book, The 5 am Club.

Thank you so much Amber. My gratitude is deeply heartfelt. ????

Before I was less painting and trying to figure out how to manage all my creative activities. Now, I know it's ok to mix and work on different parts with different mediums as long as I do a minimum everyday and I take the time to "practice " more, as I am learning different new things or techniques, but they help me with all my old and new ideas. I am more committed with more connection to my why and others. It brings me the joy I wanted to get back, linking my different activities and realizing which ones are intuitive, which ones are nourishing, so I can continue. I like this question about what is nourishing me the most at the moment? Since everything we do is always linked, I can be surprised and receive from it all. Thank you so much Amber for sharing with us. I needed that activity for a long time. I had the knowledge in many parts but it helped me to start again and have more clarity and reset my priorities. ?

My Dad died ... and I haven't wanted to get out of bed. Every morning I struggle and seek only do dive back under the covers seeking a comfort that I can't find anywhere. Then comes the Daily Challenge ... and I do get out of bed ... five of the days to co-create with my new friends ... two of the days to meet work commitments. And I found joy, and I learned. I've sought out help from a counselor, life-coach-like programs and one book after another. Yet it was this seven day challenge that is turning the lights back on for me. I just revisited the notes I took and I am so thankful for the pearls I gleaned from each day. My struggle is not over, yet I finally feel as though I have a road map to continue and explore what has yet to unfold. Thank you.

Seeing Amber create daily and share her journey for these days lit a fire under me. Before the create DAILY challenge I was intimidated and unsure of how to find time daily for what I love to do, what I need to do, what nourishes me so I can be available to others. So many doors were unlocked for me; it was like having my hand held while I figure out how to take my first steps. I have been doing my own creative practice consistently these past several days, first time ever to feel confident that now I know how to move forward even for just 5 minutes. Thank you so much Amber and this community!❤️

Before the create daily challenge, I devalued my own self and process. Now, I have a renewed commitment to myself and my creativity. Thank you so much. Blessings on your journey, sisters.

Creating what's in my heart is essential for my well being. Watching Amber each day uplifted me and empowered me to lay all of my paints, pencils, crayons, paper and canvases out on the living room floor. I haven't stopped since!!! It's kinda chaotic, but I can handle that LOL. Thank you Amber for reminding me that my spirit matters!!

Here’s a snippet of what I created this weekend.

Before the Create Daily Challenge I thought I could be creative on my own and that I could handle not being "creative" every day...now I know that I don't function and barely survive without daily creativity and putting myself first...and I can't put myself first if I don't have support. Thanks again Amber

Before the daily challenge I was committed to my meditation practice but just got the art piece in when I could. When I did the cake exercise the art was a huge layer I obviously wanted in my cake so now I move from my meditation to my art and it feels right. I loved the day on good, better, best. I was feeling frumpy that day so I moved to a larger canvas which had an old painting on and I started throwing paint on and this painting good enough surfaced. Thank you my dear for getting me back in my groove.

Wow, the event was transforming for me. I’ve been trying to do a daily practice for several years Since I’ve done my first women unleashed workshop with you! Now it’s Especially important since my son left for college last year. I even signed up for a yearlong art journaling event with weekly prompts. Figuring that I could do it and stick to it. But still I wasn’t! Amber showed me where I stopped myself and helped me get unstuck AND most importantly helped me find my Whys! One is becoming an Intentional Creativity teacher, I really need this!!! Now I feel and know I can do it. And it’s so amazing and empowering, providing me with healing, fulfilling, self care time - bringing me so much increasing joy! I have so much gratitude for you, your teaching style, your exercises and encouragement throughout the 7 days. And just being there yourself with us and sharing your struggles, it’s all been so rewarding Amber. Thank you so much. Peace love light and Big Hugs!

“Before the create DAILY challenge I I created only when I had ample time. Now I find flow after creating everyday.”

Thank you for the delightful morning times! I have been struggling with setting priorities and purpose in my retired life. Many of your inspired advice pieces helped, but my favorite was .... good, better, best! I even shared it with my therapist and other friends. It really got me thinking about perfection and being ok with ok! Ahhhh I added a section on the 4 grid thing... important and necessary!... dishes! Ha I have scheduled my create time!!!!!!! Yes! Thank you. I truly appreciate your willingness to share. To life!

I am not a visual artist, I am a performer and writer, and I don't know what else, so I never let myself play with art in any real way, I never let myself take it seriously, I never let myself need it as much as I do, and this week has lifted my soul, allowed me to be kinder to myself, to let myself make mistakes and do things wrong, and come back to creating anyway. I've had a terribly painful year, and have tried so many practices, but the practice of creating, creating, letting myself be free to find delicious pleasure in color, markers, pastels, collage, art, then letting the words pour freely from there, has changed everything. I am waking up without panic and dread, and when the fear and shame are there, I can think COLORS and go to art and I have even let myself dance a few times, which has been too painful to let myself do, but somehow the pressure is off. I have not set a specific time, but I have needed to be gentle about that too, and that has helped my mood lift, just to be loving and gentle with myself about all of this. I get to be art. I now need to build support, which is still scary, but it feels possible. Thank you Amber for sharing this with all of us, and helping us to create community. The images I'm posting below are HUGE for me. They show SUN and FIRE in my soul, that are burning through the despair and blackness and hopelessness that have been there for many months. Love to you, Amber, and all the women who have built this community.

Before the challenge I wrote in my journal most days. Member's challenge combined meditation and or music writing colour drawing collage painting or anything else the we choose to use. I commit at least 30 minutes each morning. I have more focus, more enthusiasm and a better vision on how I will craft my life. This 7 day challenge has created a daily practice that is continuing. Heartily recommend this challenge and anything else Amber creates.

Thanks, Amber! I LOVED this challenge! I LOVE Good-Better-Best and I realized I can use it so many ways in my life! I am so happy that I participated in this challenge. My biggest take away is that Art doesn't have to come last! I used to always think that I couldn't create any art until my house was clean, chores were done, and work was done. Now I put my art right where it belongs: front and center. It has made my life more fun, and everything that matters still gets done! I love it!

I am very very grateful Amber Kuileimailani Bonnici for all the wondrous programs you have shared with us and for all the amazing sensational support, encouragement, and rejoicing in our creative nutrients for our bodies, minds, and spirits. This program, for me, was distinguished by your lovely term... and your loveliness... keeping it raw and real. I love that you were doing your creative practice still in your lovely pjs sans makeup. It had for me similiar energy to the cozy warm and fuzzy feelings of sharing at a pajama party... instilling a feeling of comfort and safety and sharing. I loved beginning my creative practice with you outside in the dark as if you are sharing a secret... the secret to emotional sustenance and equilibrium. As an expressive arts facilitator, I "do art" all day long... but what changed for me in this program was the reinforcement of how very important and crucial it is for me to do it mindfully just for me at the beginning of the day. I can choose to share it later afterwards but doing it at the beginning sets the foundation for me. Sharing with you in the chat and hearing my responses resonate with you gave me a feeling of bonding and connection. When you would lean in to the camera, it was if you were right here and I was right there in Hawaii connecting with you and women around the world. I loved walking around all day still feeling the good feelings of bonding and connecting through our daily practices and also mostly your caring for us, for me, for literally the world. Nurtured by your caring, I was strengthened all day long and my own self care became even more self caring. And yet, I also learned from you that I still needed to replenish it the next day as right away as possible. I also realized that I missed doing the videos I had been doing for my fb group whilst I was concentrating on posting written material that I could adapt for my book and I have decided to go back to making more videos again as well. Being in creative flow is vital to me and my video flow really rocks and floats my boat. Thank you for helping me realize that and slso for so much more: that a daily creative

practice is just that... daily.... and needs to be renewed daily, no matter how much there was yesterday, today is a new day and time for a new practice for the foundation and nurturing strength of the new day. Recently, I hobbled into a medical facility and sat down to wait for my appointment whereupon I became entranced and intrigued with a plant with bright red flowers and green leaves that looked similiar to the familiar -to me Peace Lily plant. I asked if I could photograph it and when I was given permission, a gentleman offered to do it for me, not realizing that I wanted to not just have a photograpgh but to create it as well. I had a very fun creative practice and was truly in flow. After my appointment, one of the staff members said that she noticed I like to take photos. I asked her if she did as well. She said she used to but no longer has time for it and explained why. I understood and sympathized ... but I would like for her to know and understand that taking even just one photo can be a daily creative practice and set the tone for the day. Some of us have learned that we do not have time not to have time. We make the time. Oh, yes, the plant? A relative of the Peace Lily, her nickname is Painter's Pallete... and I love how my creative painter's pallette of possibilities helps me bring self peace and calmness to my inner world and hope that the staff member and the rest of the world benefit as well by the ripple effect. Thank you, Amber, for helping me create, maintain, and strengthen my creative practice.

I always struggled do morning or evening practice. This challenge has made me make morning pracrice a priority for me. I also think/ plan my morning the previous night so I m actually doing it in the morning.

Thanks Amber for helping me. Also ur statement of I have permission to be imperfect helped me be easier on myself!

There's a Fire blazing in my SOUL!

I have loved doing this create daily challenge so much. I had wanted a creative daily practice for a while and had stopped and started without being able to stick to anything. I was working too much and wasn’t able to keep to anything regular. All my responsibilities, being a mum, running around like a crazy person took centre stage and the things I love, that I know help and heal me so much just slipped to the back. This challenge has brought me back to myself. Connected me back to that little child who creates for the love of it and put me in touch with my deepest need to express creatively. I am so clear now that this time for me is vital, that without it the rest of my life just won’t work. It’s the magic that brings everything else to life. Thank you Amber for asking the difficult questions that opened me to really looking and once the answers were found there’s no going back. You’re amazing, thank you so much xxx

Before this challenge I had participated in other challenges with Amber (and others) in order to connect with, and stay guided by, my muse. I was successful in that but I gradually fell out of creating something on a regular basis. When this opportunity came I could have said, no, it's not a good time, I'm only a few months away from birthing another baby, I'm leaving my job, I have to do this, this and this! BUT I did not. I knew that I needed a little nudge to add this back into my life and I felt that I NEEDED to establish this before meeting my new one, as I know the days will not be as they have been once she is here. It is kind of a simple revelation, to create and then do a daily practice, but to have the space and sisterhood to slow down and do it has been so wonderful. To look dead in the eye some of the things that may stand in my way, greet them with love, and know that I can handle them (with support!) is empowering. To FEEL that support from my husband, especially at this special time for us, fills me up. I am soaking in the moments with him and our older daughter, I am soaking in the moments to myself. Now that this is complete I know I have some hard work to do (on my relationship with my Mom for instance,

Before I started on the Create Daily challenge I was actually in need of a kickstart! And that is what this challenge gave me and so much more! I really love the desicion matrix it has helped me today in a lot of ways and the self sabotage. I am not good enough at drawing, who would want to see this and now I think Well, I need to create Daily to become more myself and practice is worth it. And now I have my Son drawing with me, Or couloring actually but he sees me creating and he is getting the vibes now too! Thank you so much, Amber! It made me realise what is important but not urgent for me! ♥️?

First thank you so much Amber for this offering <3 I'm also loving all the different modes of working that you showed us such as smash booking. Before this I was really listening to the mental chatter that I had soooo many other things that needed to be done before I could start my practice...and so most days never got to it...and listening to those upper limits and that everything I did needed to be a finished product...now I can open to this daily practice as practice and feel more free to connect in to myself and Spirit for inspiration. I am making my shiny object syndrome list and prioritizing them...as I can sometimes feel so overwhelmed with all my ideas that I get immobilized feeling that I'll never get to it all. And...seems like It would be a good idea for me to get some sort of creative support. My husband is all for me creating but I seem to be the one holding myself back! Thank you again?

Before this amazing 7 day gathering, I felt very much alone and stuck in my small practice. After identifying the challenges that throw in my own way, I was and am able to see where I like to trip myself up. I am also more comfortable asking for support and am working towards being more confident in my practice. I actually worked on a painting while my family was home, ?. Small steps. The other part of the week that was super meaningful was the idea of a “permission slip”. I need to remember that just because I miss a day, or make a mistake, doesn’t mean my life as an artist is over, or that I am the worst artist ever. Ah, so much learning! Thank you!

I know I did not commit to the 8 days.....but just doing the day 7 exercise left me feeling fulfilled. I didn't think.i could actually collage effectively and never felt like I was doing it right. But thanks to this challenge I know now that what was missing was the inquiry and my presence.

Create DAILY has reignited my commitment to my creativity and to myself. Amber's kindness, relatability, and passion throughout her videos sparked a knowing inside of me that Creativity is essential in my life. Her clear topics each day helped me understand my self-sabotage, and gave me structure to find ways to commit to myself, and to ask for support from others. Thank you Amber! I noticed this week during the 7 days of Create DAILY how I found more little moments in my day to have bursts of artistic bliss. I little dance in the kitchen while cooking; writing a poem as I stood in line waiting for my friends; breathing and feeling gratitude for the small things in my life as I woke up. It all adds up, and makes my days feel so much richer. I look forward to continuing my daily creativity, and seeing what I can create when I schedule the time and don't hold myself back anymore!!! Before the Create DAILY challenge I was feeling stuck, sluggish and overwhelmed with artistic ideas that I wasn't acting on. Now I am ready to make decisions on my priority of what I want to create, and to set up a structure in my life to make that happen. Because it needs to happen. (Here is a photo of my journal I've been writing, drawing and painting in this week. I painted the rainbow golden labyrinth cover of it earlier this year.)

Before the Create daily challenge I though I could "do it all alone". Now I remember... that TOGETHER, there is nothing we can't achieve. I have been closing up for so long, it's time to break the cocoon, and take risks again. Mamma mia.... feels scary, but you have shown us a way, and that it's always possible. Thank you so much. Blessed Be!!!

Before the daily challenge I felt like I was being dragged in all directions, overwhelmed with all the options and information on the "right way" to take part in having a regular practice. Now I have found clarity and focus, making it relate to what I actually want to be creating and having thoughtful reasons about the why. It's tricky as my art is tied up in my dream career so it has been so helpful to get back to discovering the "me" in my art rather than playing (or should that be painting?!) to an audience.

For the last 8 days, every morning I became more excited to face the day. Each day started with reflection, followed by one of my many creative practices. I learned that I cannot do everything I want to do in a day without some sacrifice, although even 5 minutes is enough to please the soul in some form or another!. I also learned that I need 'me-time' in order to 'recharge my battery' so that I am able to give more.

Thank you for giving me the kick-start I needed to continue with this practice. Thanks too to all participants for the support and encouragement that you did not even know you gave! Trust in Divine Light and Love!

Before I was less painting and trying to figure out how to manage all my creative activities. Now, I know it's ok to mix and work on different parts with different mediums as long as I do a minimum everyday and I take the time to "practice " more, as I am learning different new things or techniques, but they help me with all my old and new ideas. I am more committed with more connection to my why and others. It brings me the joy I wanted to get back, linking my different activities and realizing which ones are intuitive, which ones are nourishing, so I can continue. I like this question about what is nourishing me the most at the moment? Since everything we do is always linked, I can be surprised and receive from it all. Thank you so much Amber for sharing with us. I needed that activity for a long time. I had the knowledge in many parts but it helped me to start again and have more clarity and reset my priorities. ?

Just want to add a photo of my dragonfly that today move into the plant on my studio desk. (it´s tricky to see on the big photo). I've carved it from wood and made the wings with wire and pearls. For me it is a symbol for transformation and self realization.

Seeing Amber create daily and share her journey for these days lit a fire under me. Before the create DAILY challenge I was intimidated and unsure of how to find time daily for what I love to do, what I need to do, what nourishes me so I can be available to others. So many doors were unlocked for me; it was like having my hand held while I figure out how to take my first steps. I have been doing my own creative practice consistently these past several days, first time ever to feel confident that now I know how to move forward even for just 5 minutes. Thank you so much Amber and this community!❤️

I have loved doing this create daily challenge so much. I had wanted a creative daily practice for a while and had stopped and started without being able to stick to anything. I was working too much and wasn’t able to keep to anything regular. All my responsibilities, being a mum, running around like a crazy person took centre stage and the things I love, that I know help and heal me so much just slipped to the back. This challenge has brought me back to myself. Connected me back to that little child who creates for the love of it and put me in touch with my deepest need to express creatively. I am so clear now that this time for me is vital, that without it the rest of my life just won’t work. It’s the magic that brings everything else to life. Thank you Amber for asking the difficult questions that opened me to really looking and once the answers were found there’s no going back. You’re amazing, thank you so much xxx

I always struggled do morning or evening practice. This challenge has made me make morning pracrice a priority for me. I also think/ plan my morning the previous night so I m actually doing it in the morning.

Thanks Amber for helping me. Also ur statement of I have permission to be imperfect helped me be easier on myself!

“Before the create DAILY challenge I I created only when I had ample time. Now I find flow after creating everyday.”

Before this challenge I had participated in other challenges with Amber (and others) in order to connect with, and stay guided by, my muse. I was successful in that but I gradually fell out of creating something on a regular basis. When this opportunity came I could have said, no, it's not a good time, I'm only a few months away from birthing another baby, I'm leaving my job, I have to do this, this and this! BUT I did not. I knew that I needed a little nudge to add this back into my life and I felt that I NEEDED to establish this before meeting my new one, as I know the days will not be as they have been once she is here. It is kind of a simple revelation, to create and then do a daily practice, but to have the space and sisterhood to slow down and do it has been so wonderful. To look dead in the eye some of the things that may stand in my way, greet them with love, and know that I can handle them (with support!) is empowering. To FEEL that support from my husband, especially at this special time for us, fills me up. I am soaking in the moments with him and our older daughter, I am soaking in the moments to myself. Now that this is complete I know I have some hard work to do (on my relationship with my Mom for instance,

Before this amazing 7 day gathering, I felt very much alone and stuck in my small practice. After identifying the challenges that throw in my own way, I was and am able to see where I like to trip myself up. I am also more comfortable asking for support and am working towards being more confident in my practice. I actually worked on a painting while my family was home, ?. Small steps. The other part of the week that was super meaningful was the idea of a “permission slip”. I need to remember that just because I miss a day, or make a mistake, doesn’t mean my life as an artist is over, or that I am the worst artist ever. Ah, so much learning! Thank you!

Oh!! I actually learned SO MUCH during these days of daily creating. What was the most transformational is the kind of images, symbols and artworks that appear on the page as I draw intuitively. They inform me and hold me so much, so much that words have failed to do. And I am so happy and proud that I took up this challenge because it presented a very different amd versatile side of me, something that I didn't have a framework for earlier. It has introduced me to an aspect of me that can indeed DO and BE committed to a daily creative practice. And the most beautiful outcome is a stunning artwork that I can tangibly see and show it to the world. Having a body of work done, for me presents to me a whole new vibrant and productive side of me, that I thought I never was. So I am deeply deeply grateful to you Amber Kuileimailani Bonnici and to my own self for having chosen you and myself for this daily practice committing fully to my creativity and sending love to my sacral. Much love, Roshmila 🙂

Before the challenge I wrote in my journal most days. Member's challenge combined meditation and or music writing colour drawing collage painting or anything else the we choose to use. I commit at least 30 minutes each morning. I have more focus, more enthusiasm and a better vision on how I will craft my life. This 7 day challenge has created a daily practice that is continuing. Heartily recommend this challenge and anything else Amber creates.

Thank you for the delightful morning times! I have been struggling with setting priorities and purpose in my retired life. Many of your inspired advice pieces helped, but my favorite was .... good, better, best! I even shared it with my therapist and other friends. It really got me thinking about perfection and being ok with ok! Ahhhh I added a section on the 4 grid thing... important and necessary!... dishes! Ha I have scheduled my create time!!!!!!! Yes! Thank you. I truly appreciate your willingness to share. To life!

Wow, the event was transforming for me. I’ve been trying to do a daily practice for several years Since I’ve done my first women unleashed workshop with you! Now it’s Especially important since my son left for college last year. I even signed up for a yearlong art journaling event with weekly prompts. Figuring that I could do it and stick to it. But still I wasn’t! Amber showed me where I stopped myself and helped me get unstuck AND most importantly helped me find my Whys! One is becoming an Intentional Creativity teacher, I really need this!!! Now I feel and know I can do it. And it’s so amazing and empowering, providing me with healing, fulfilling, self care time - bringing me so much increasing joy! I have so much gratitude for you, your teaching style, your exercises and encouragement throughout the 7 days. And just being there yourself with us and sharing your struggles, it’s all been so rewarding Amber. Thank you so much. Peace love light and Big Hugs!

Now, instead of reaching for my phone to check the latest BS, I will reach for my journal and try to remember my dreams and illustrate what comes to mind. So much more fulfilling, even though no one but me sees it. An inner life is emerging and it makes me feel centered and more Whole. Thank you Amber! I hope there will be more inspiration in the future!

Before the Create Daily Challenge I thought I could be creative on my own and that I could handle not being "creative" every day...now I know that I don't function and barely survive without daily creativity and putting myself first...and I can't put myself first if I don't have support. Thanks again Amber

Something definitely happened;before I did some painting and scrabbling once in a while and during the creative daily I surely changed. It's like something took it over from me and I play with different materials, colors. Time is just flying by and I feel so good. As a result I have a lot more energy, so I go biking and walking for hours, I play a lot more with my pets and I see beauty everywhere. I am so grateful and full of joy. Thank you for this wonderful gift.

I know I did not commit to the 8 days.....but just doing the day 7 exercise left me feeling fulfilled. I didn't think.i could actually collage effectively and never felt like I was doing it right. But thanks to this challenge I know now that what was missing was the inquiry and my presence.

Before the daily challenge I was stagnant (no momentum) I had stopped writing. I had stopped valuing mySelf ?I became angry. I have been distracted with less than positive people whom have no care in the world as to how I had been trying to make "they" proud of me and happy for me.

Now, after these 7 power-full and soul waking days I am now in a place where the momentum is quietly streaming . ..I do want to create through my writing. I welcome ...I embrace more Momentum so as to keep flowing. ? I can hear Amber K.B. asking why is it important to me to keep this Momentum going? ?

Why ? To write with words that will send healing courage and create a power-full whoosh of resonance.

? thank You Amber K.B.? thank you All ???

This 7 day create daily challenge cracked me wide open to the realization that creativity is the driving life force helping us to reach our potential individually and as a collective. It is essential not “extra” bringing us all home to our true selves at a time the world needs our gifts more than ever. Practically speaking I had set an intention for 2019 around creating and had set an intention for 2018 around systematizing a morning routine. Neither of those things had happened yet but getting into the support and inspiration of this community somehow shifted me into a new place. A new momentum and energy that had me leaping out of bed and looking forward to my morning routine instead of it being yet another thing on my to do list. Most of all it helped me realize my anxiety around creating and the product oriented mindset that was keeping me from trying anything at all. It is such a gift to realize that creativity isn’t producing a painting but instead a way of being. I feel like I see the world and especially my house with new ideas. Where I stagnated and felt stressed about changing anything I now see a multitude of creative options for a variety of challenges and feel liberated that I can add or peel back the layers and move things around and it is all perfect and exactly as it should be. Knowing I can’t mess it up is exhilarating changing the rhythm of my life forever. I love choosing beauty everyday instead of felling guilt. I’m so very grateful to everyone for the love, support and eternal inspiration. This program made me realize connecting to your divine creative flow is the beating heart that connects us to ourselves, each other and the planet. We need YOUR irreplaceable light. This program will help you uncover, ignite or amplify your light no matter what is going on in your life if you allow it. ?✨?

Here’s a snippet of what I created this weekend.

Before the create daily challenge I sometimes felt alone and invisible. Now I am ready to play, as well as feel seen, heard and accepted. Thank you.

Before the create daily, I was having a very hard time justifying a creative practice, and would draw a blank on what to do when I did find the time, now I can find something every day that I’m great full for! Thanks Amber, I am in much better touch with my self and my positive life.

Before the create DAILY challenge I felt like it was all or nothing. That if I missed a day or step towards my goals then I was done. I had failed. Now I realize through the good better best and the decision matrix that I can stay on track in more manageable steps:) I’ve included two projects that were on my to do list. The serpent girl was a thorn in my side, she wasn’t turning out the way I wanted but I kept at it and the other is a piece I’ve been wanting to do for my cousin. The Serpent Girl is complete and the sunflowers are almost there:)

Thank you Amber And all the wonderful creatives that hung out with me during this 7 day challenge. Everyday I gained new insights and pathways to help me sustain a creative practice. Some of the treasures I took away from this is the “permission slip”! I love that! So no beating myself up if I miss a day. I also found looking at the things that sabotage my practice a huge help because now that I have named them it is easier to say no or not now to them. Asking myself the questions why and who supports me, just made me really think and be honest. As many have said before, creating everyday makes me a better person for those around me. I am happier, kinder, and more interested. My big support is my dear hubby, who never minds me heading off to my studio, who, when we moved, insisted I had the nicest bedroom in our little flat to make my studio and who always looks at my work honestly and lovingly and very proudly shows it off. My other support is this community of people I don’t know but who are kind and loving and sweet. I appreciate the connection I make in every course I take. Finally, I have learned that for me, my practice doesn’t have to be at a specific time of day....I fit it in when and where I can, mostly in my studio in the early afternoon, but sometimes it’s sitting at the beach, or on a train or in a waiting room. I always have a sketchbook and something to make marks with. That is my practice. To just make marks everyday. Love you Guys! X

I am very very grateful Amber Kuileimailani Bonnici for all the wondrous programs you have shared with us and for all the amazing sensational support, encouragement, and rejoicing in our creative nutrients for our bodies, minds, and spirits. This program, for me, was distinguished by your lovely term... and your loveliness... keeping it raw and real. I love that you were doing your creative practice still in your lovely pjs sans makeup. It had for me similiar energy to the cozy warm and fuzzy feelings of sharing at a pajama party... instilling a feeling of comfort and safety and sharing. I loved beginning my creative practice with you outside in the dark as if you are sharing a secret... the secret to emotional sustenance and equilibrium. As an expressive arts facilitator, I "do art" all day long... but what changed for me in this program was the reinforcement of how very important and crucial it is for me to do it mindfully just for me at the beginning of the day. I can choose to share it later afterwards but doing it at the beginning sets the foundation for me. Sharing with you in the chat and hearing my responses resonate with you gave me a feeling of bonding and connection. When you would lean in to the camera, it was if you were right here and I was right there in Hawaii connecting with you and women around the world. I loved walking around all day still feeling the good feelings of bonding and connecting through our daily practices and also mostly your caring for us, for me, for literally the world. Nurtured by your caring, I was strengthened all day long and my own self care became even more self caring. And yet, I also learned from you that I still needed to replenish it the next day as right away as possible. I also realized that I missed doing the videos I had been doing for my fb group whilst I was concentrating on posting written material that I could adapt for my book and I have decided to go back to making more videos again as well. Being in creative flow is vital to me and my video flow really rocks and floats my boat. Thank you for helping me realize that and slso for so much more: that a daily creative

practice is just that... daily.... and needs to be renewed daily, no matter how much there was yesterday, today is a new day and time for a new practice for the foundation and nurturing strength of the new day. Recently, I hobbled into a medical facility and sat down to wait for my appointment whereupon I became entranced and intrigued with a plant with bright red flowers and green leaves that looked similiar to the familiar -to me Peace Lily plant. I asked if I could photograph it and when I was given permission, a gentleman offered to do it for me, not realizing that I wanted to not just have a photograpgh but to create it as well. I had a very fun creative practice and was truly in flow. After my appointment, one of the staff members said that she noticed I like to take photos. I asked her if she did as well. She said she used to but no longer has time for it and explained why. I understood and sympathized ... but I would like for her to know and understand that taking even just one photo can be a daily creative practice and set the tone for the day. Some of us have learned that we do not have time not to have time. We make the time. Oh, yes, the plant? A relative of the Peace Lily, her nickname is Painter's Pallete... and I love how my creative painter's pallette of possibilities helps me bring self peace and calmness to my inner world and hope that the staff member and the rest of the world benefit as well by the ripple effect. Thank you, Amber, for helping me create, maintain, and strengthen my creative practice.

Creativity is everything to me. I spent many years teaching, inspiring and enriching children in the arts. I was filled up with energy that not only fueled me, but also sparked the children’s imagination in amazing ways. But now in my retirement, I got stuck. The hours of the day were quickly passing by and at night I’d feel frustrated and swallow my yearning. So when I saw the Create Daily Challenge, I jumped on board. And I’m so happy I did.

Thank you, Amber for opening closed channels in me and for introducing techniques and tools to get my creativity flowing. The perfectionist in me used to wait until I had a block of time to create and now I understand that even with limited time, a scribble can be fun and yield something amazing with a spirit message. I have learned so much about myself – my upper limits, where my energy and time was going, the perfect practice for me. I have discovered for myself, as you have said, that small changes can move you where you want to go. Now I have a daily plan, a roadmap to my very own personal creativity. I have drawn more sketches in the last week than in the last few years. It’s time to step forward and shine my gifts.

Before the create day challenge I didn't believe I could change my life with this practice every morning. But it did! I am making this part of my every day, to make this an extension of myself. Choosing art is interesting for me because I can't draw, and felt uncomfortable with it at first. I love the idea of writing every morning as well. It was fun. That is very important to me. I needed to find myself again. Who am I? This is just one of the thing I am discovering after the create days.

My Dad died ... and I haven't wanted to get out of bed. Every morning I struggle and seek only do dive back under the covers seeking a comfort that I can't find anywhere. Then comes the Daily Challenge ... and I do get out of bed ... five of the days to co-create with my new friends ... two of the days to meet work commitments. And I found joy, and I learned. I've sought out help from a counselor, life-coach-like programs and one book after another. Yet it was this seven day challenge that is turning the lights back on for me. I just revisited the notes I took and I am so thankful for the pearls I gleaned from each day. My struggle is not over, yet I finally feel as though I have a road map to continue and explore what has yet to unfold. Thank you.

Before the create daily challenge, I had been struggling through my days with an increasing sense of purposelessness. I was fighting against unwanted feelings of anger, resentment, and exhaustion. Having the opportunity and encouragement to take the time every morning for myself, to start my day tuned into my own intuition and creativity, giving my energy first to myself before anyone or anything else, has completely changed the way I have been going through my days. I feel more connected to my sense of purpose because I’m creating a little bit every day. And the more I create the more energy I have. I haven’t been feeling angry or resentful about sharing my time and energy with others because I’m giving to myself first. It has been so encouraging to feel connected to a community of creative women who share the same hopes and struggles that I do. I’ve learned a lot. I’ve been able to see patterns that emerge when I reach my upper limits of comfort, and I have realized how much I’ve been trying to do without any support at all. It has been so nice to start each morning with my own recipe of creativity practice well getting to enjoy the warm and peaceful presence of Amber as she enjoys her own daily morning practice. What a special gift this experience has been.

The practices were juicy. I especially enjoyed the final collage, it told much about myself. Nothing really changed, but I experienced how urgent it is now to focus on what really has heart and meaning and not to scatter my energies. I hope to keep all this in mind <3 and write every day. PS. And whatever choices I make, they must have PASSION ja JOY in them! Now that Uranus steps into Taurus, the importance of following my own truth (and nothing but my own truth) is emphasised like never before! My truth, my path.

I am not a visual artist, I am a performer and writer, and I don't know what else, so I never let myself play with art in any real way, I never let myself take it seriously, I never let myself need it as much as I do, and this week has lifted my soul, allowed me to be kinder to myself, to let myself make mistakes and do things wrong, and come back to creating anyway. I've had a terribly painful year, and have tried so many practices, but the practice of creating, creating, letting myself be free to find delicious pleasure in color, markers, pastels, collage, art, then letting the words pour freely from there, has changed everything. I am waking up without panic and dread, and when the fear and shame are there, I can think COLORS and go to art and I have even let myself dance a few times, which has been too painful to let myself do, but somehow the pressure is off. I have not set a specific time, but I have needed to be gentle about that too, and that has helped my mood lift, just to be loving and gentle with myself about all of this. I get to be art. I now need to build support, which is still scary, but it feels possible. Thank you Amber for sharing this with all of us, and helping us to create community. The images I'm posting below are HUGE for me. They show SUN and FIRE in my soul, that are burning through the despair and blackness and hopelessness that have been there for many months. Love to you, Amber, and all the women who have built this community.

Create DAILY has reignited my commitment to my creativity and to myself. Amber's kindness, relatability, and passion throughout her videos sparked a knowing inside of me that Creativity is essential in my life. Her clear topics each day helped me understand my self-sabotage, and gave me structure to find ways to commit to myself, and to ask for support from others. Thank you Amber! I noticed this week during the 7 days of Create DAILY how I found more little moments in my day to have bursts of artistic bliss. I little dance in the kitchen while cooking; writing a poem as I stood in line waiting for my friends; breathing and feeling gratitude for the small things in my life as I woke up. It all adds up, and makes my days feel so much richer. I look forward to continuing my daily creativity, and seeing what I can create when I schedule the time and don't hold myself back anymore!!! Before the Create DAILY challenge I was feeling stuck, sluggish and overwhelmed with artistic ideas that I wasn't acting on. Now I am ready to make decisions on my priority of what I want to create, and to set up a structure in my life to make that happen. Because it needs to happen. (Here is a photo of my journal I've been writing, drawing and painting in this week. I painted the rainbow golden labyrinth cover of it earlier this year.)

Creating what's in my heart is essential for my well being. Watching Amber each day uplifted me and empowered me to lay all of my paints, pencils, crayons, paper and canvases out on the living room floor. I haven't stopped since!!! It's kinda chaotic, but I can handle that LOL. Thank you Amber for reminding me that my spirit matters!!

Thanks, Amber! I LOVED this challenge! I LOVE Good-Better-Best and I realized I can use it so many ways in my life! I am so happy that I participated in this challenge. My biggest take away is that Art doesn't have to come last! I used to always think that I couldn't create any art until my house was clean, chores were done, and work was done. Now I put my art right where it belongs: front and center. It has made my life more fun, and everything that matters still gets done! I love it!

Before I started on the Create Daily challenge I was actually in need of a kickstart! And that is what this challenge gave me and so much more! I really love the desicion matrix it has helped me today in a lot of ways and the self sabotage. I am not good enough at drawing, who would want to see this and now I think Well, I need to create Daily to become more myself and practice is worth it. And now I have my Son drawing with me, Or couloring actually but he sees me creating and he is getting the vibes now too! Thank you so much, Amber! It made me realise what is important but not urgent for me! ♥️?

There's a Fire blazing in my SOUL!

This has been so exciting for me! I would really look forward to our time together and definitely made it a point to schedule it. That is something that I wouldn’t do in the past. So what really changed for me over the seven days was the realization that

I CAN Make time for my art.

Creating with the support of others in the group truly felt nurturing.

Before I started “Create Daily” with you Amber, I was really unfocused and had a zillion things going on all at once. Which really meant that I did none of them with much satisfaction. It was very stilling to devote a specific time to this particular practice. With no agenda other than to immerse myself in the moment. All of your suggestions, prompts, and personal stories really resonated with me. Thank you for this journey. I now feel strong enough to continue on a daily schedule...Amazing what a little bit of consistency can do! I hope all of the other artists are feeling the joy of the gift you have given us. Blessings to you and to all those that rode along on this creative ride with me??

First thank you so much Amber for this offering <3 I'm also loving all the different modes of working that you showed us such as smash booking. Before this I was really listening to the mental chatter that I had soooo many other things that needed to be done before I could start my practice...and so most days never got to it...and listening to those upper limits and that everything I did needed to be a finished product...now I can open to this daily practice as practice and feel more free to connect in to myself and Spirit for inspiration. I am making my shiny object syndrome list and prioritizing them...as I can sometimes feel so overwhelmed with all my ideas that I get immobilized feeling that I'll never get to it all. And...seems like It would be a good idea for me to get some sort of creative support. My husband is all for me creating but I seem to be the one holding myself back! Thank you again?

Before the daily challenge I was committed to my meditation practice but just got the art piece in when I could. When I did the cake exercise the art was a huge layer I obviously wanted in my cake so now I move from my meditation to my art and it feels right. I loved the day on good, better, best. I was feeling frumpy that day so I moved to a larger canvas which had an old painting on and I started throwing paint on and this painting good enough surfaced. Thank you my dear for getting me back in my groove.

Before I started the create daily, I thought I could 'do the work' without working on myself. Now I'm realizing that the work is just as much about working on 'me' as it is on 'my art.' ❤️

Wow. I could never have imagined what a game changer this creative challenge would be for me. Before the challenge, I loved to create, but did not take my time to do it, since I'm not an artist. It was more of a bonus that I did if I had time for it. And in a life with running my own business, having two kids and a farm, that extra time rarely appeared.

When I participated in Ambers weekly retreats a couple of months ago, and made my smashjournal, something awakened in me. A longing to create daily. Still I did mostly only create during our sessions.

After this seven days in a row, creating together with you and reflection upon Ambers questions, I have realized I am a woman who need to create daily to thrive. To be the best mother I can and to serve my clients and this world in the most amazing way. During these days I have mostly painted and sculptured, and I have also got a lot of inspiration to my business.

I have therefor today, taken a part of our living room and created the sacred studio (ateljé in Swedish, as it says on the little orange sign to the left on the wall ?) that I have been dreaming of having. I am done with waiting for extra time to create. Creating is no longer a bonus me, it is crucial.

I could write a long story about all the things in my studio that I have created, but I´ll keep it short. The big painting I made a year ago, just because my kids had put out a lot of color on our table that I did not know what to do with, and I also had a canvas that was kind of broken. So then I had no ambitions to make something perfect. I just played daily for a couple of weeks, and this mandala was born. My mother, who passed away in august, said a couple of weeks before she died that it would be nice to have it hanging tilted, so today, when putting it on the wall in my studio, I tilted it. And for me, it is reminder of creating for fun. For diving deep and aligning with the creative force.

I feel that this daily creation will elevate me in all areas of my life. Thank you Amber Kuileimailani Bonnici and everyone who's been a part of this tribe. I am forever grateful for this game changer.

Here is a photo of my studio, with my smash journal open and ready and my yoga mat close to hand for pauses of movement and my rocking chair for relaxation and reflection ✨?✍️?? Aloha!

Before the create daily, I was struggling with the after effects of a series of emotionally debilitating traumas that had led me to inaction in all the important areas of my life. I had no discipline or willpower to commit to any action even though intellectually, I understood this is what I needed to get me out of my dark place. When I saw the invite for this challenge, I hummed and hawed. I decided to go for it and got up one hour before it started every morning. I meditated, did a wake up yoga routine and ate breakfast then sat down to listen to Amber’s talk. Then I would journal my thoughts about her words and then create art. Then I pulled an oracle card to guide my intention for each day. I’m so grateful for this opportunity that this challenge gave me to start exercising my will power and discipline. A few weeks ago I read a sentence in a book that said that a lack of willpower was a sign of poor mental health. Those words shone like a beacon to me as I felt I was living the truth of that statement. And I realized that part of my healing and reconnecting to my true self would be to get back my willpower. So the program allowed me a place to exercise my willpower. I showed up everyday and did everything I wanted to do. This great start to each day helped me frame the rest of my day in a more positive and productive manner. The benefits felt great and I’m happy to say that I am continuing with it this week and am committed for the long run. I’ve even bought Robin Sharmas book, The 5 am Club.

Thank you so much Amber. My gratitude is deeply heartfelt. ????

The words pouring out in response to my art, like a river…

Before the create daily challenge, I devalued my own self and process. Now, I have a renewed commitment to myself and my creativity. Thank you so much. Blessings on your journey, sisters.

Before the create DAILY challenge, I started the morning by reaching for my phone to check my email. Now, I start the day with storytelling, with words or paint or both.