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  marcoujor's musings

mar's Desk

​This multi-topic blog publishes weekly on Wednesdays.
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marcoujor: Highlighting Cynthia Sageleaf

9/27/2017

18 Comments

 
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I have been following the work, and simultaneously getting to know, a talented, energetic and inspirational writer, with the pen name of Cynthia Sageleaf.  

I wanted to get to know her even better through this interview - to share with all of you... 

Maria: How would you describe yourself to someone who is meeting you for the first time?

​Cynthia: Many people who meet me seem to think that I'm pretty bubbly and enthusiastic. While I love to meet new people, I sometimes get anxious socially and end up talking a lot. 
​I often share humorous stories or real tales of adventure and it's wonderful to see how people take to these stories. I love engaging in philosophical conversations over tea and I enjoy spending long hours at home indulging my creativity. I am an artist, author, teacher, and very much into personal development. I love the outdoors and get a lot of inspiration from nature.
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Maria: When/how/why did you start your writing journey?

PictureCynthia Sageleaf of Intuitive and Spiritual
Cynthia: I didn't consider myself a "writer" until 2011 when I stumbled on the site called HubPages. I was looking to make a little extra money as a side gig to teaching. I had no idea the Pandora's Box that it would open: I got "addicted" to writing articles and figuring out fun things to write about. I met so many wonderful people doing so and became part of a community - and that community kept me going. Eventually I started a blog/website that would become the central parking place of my writing journey until 2016. I felt that this old website lacked focus and so I started "Intuitive and Spiritual" in late 2016 that has a mindful/spiritual focus with creativity - the one upon which I work all the time now.

To be sure, a switch didn't just flip on that November day in 2011 when I signed up for HubPages. I was always a "creative" and a writer. Since a young age, I'd kept journals. I'd write and write and write, contemplating the ups, downs, ins and outs of life. I've filled countless journals and notebooks over the years and in 2014, switched to online journaling.

With this new website, I've also wanted to tackle the challenge of writing novels. I have written some already - about seven - that are all paranormal fiction, or ghost stories! But, I've only published one and it's not in the same genre as my website. Unfortunately, the often macabre nature of paranormal fiction was difficult for me: it was emotionally tough imagining a disparaging scene of some sort and "living it" to write about it.

I also feel that my fiction writing is not yet on par with my abilities in non-fiction. Now, I am contemplating visionary fiction. I find that it's so easy to be "cheesy," though. You know, it's way too easy to write up a scene right out of something from a prudish television show. So, I'm writing some flash fiction stories here and there to see what I can come up with that are hopefully inspiring, but that won't win the prize for being prudish and square. My stories always have to have an element of the supernatural, too. I'm just figuring out how to make it work and for me, I'm finding it is quite the process.

But, writing wasn't and isn't always my main focus. I often feel called to create works of art in the form of painting, drawing, or photography. I have such a need to create that it wasn't until after I moved and had decorated my house that I realized that every work of art inside was something I'd created from 2002 onward! I must have scores of paintings on wood and canvas, not to mention even more drawings. I studied fine art as a minor in college to give me a good foundation of the principles of art. I also used to have my own studio, before I gave it up in favor of working at home. So, when I get tired of writing, I paint, and when I need to write, I do that, too. ​

Maria: Describe your muse. How do find inspiration for your writing?

​Cynthia: I usually don't have a problem finding inspiration in my writing. I have notecards that I carry around with me, waiting to be filled with ideas. I heavily use the notes app on my phone and computer to contain my ideas, too. My writing centers around mindful themes, but I infuse it with creativity: poetry, drawings, coloring pages, photography (though I don't consider myself a true photographer), and more. Between mindfulness and my creativity, I rarely have trouble finding a topic to write about and share. I don't know about you, but I often get ideas in the shower, too.

Maria: I love my copy of your Tree of Life coloring book and eagerly anticipate my copy of the accompanying journal as well. Can you tell us about this labor of love? Any plans for more coloring books along the way?

Cynthia: The Tree of Life journal was a labor of many loves: my love of mindfulness, journaling, drawing and nature. I wanted to put something out into the world that would allow me to share these interests and inspire others. I'm so grateful to friends and family who have supported me on this journey, as well. The activities in the journal center around five themes: creating intentions, expressing gratitude, expressing creativity with coloring pages, doing active mindfulness activities, and mindful writing prompts. These themes all come from principles of personal development and mindfulness.

I definitely have more plans for coloring books and journals. I already have two coloring books that people can get for free on my website. I was supposed to start a "haiku" coloring book, but I think I would like to adapt this idea to another journal, but for free on my website - you all are the first to know! I envision it containing plenty of haikus, coloring pages and mindful activities. It will take some time to complete - a couple months, most likely - but because I love doing this so much and love offering gifts to folks, I can't wait to complete this project.​

Maria: How can my readers check out more of your work?

​Cynthia: I blog over at intuitiveandspiritual.com. If folks sign up for the newsletter/mailing list (listed at the bottom of each post), I send out newsletters on Friday afternoons. I often try to include a freebie there, as well: guided meditations, poetry, photography, coloring pages, and more. It's all in the name of spreading love, kindness, and mindfulness, while indulging my creativity and love of writing.

Maria: Can you tell us about your LIFE Project? It’s inspirational to me...

Cynthia: The LIFE Project stands for "Living an Intentional and Fulfilling Existence." Each month for a year, I set upon a challenge that gets me closer to intentionally living the life I envision for myself.

I got the idea after creating a "Tree of Life" in my living room with "ornaments" that I had drawn out that would become intentions. They permanently live on the branches of the tree until I fulfill that intention. I review them a few times per year. But from these intentions, I realized that I needed to take many small steps to achieve them - I needed to make small changes that would add up to big things. The idea for the LIFE project was born.

I began in April 2017 with a month of looking inward, followed by a month of decluttering in May, detox in June, sacred travels in July, publishing projects in August, eating vegan in September, making connections in October, expressing gratitude in November, volunteering in December, "going local" in January, expressing love in February and reflecting on the journey in March 2018.

In addition, each day I must complete 10,000 steps, meditate for 60 minutes, spend time journaling, reading, reciting mantras and affirmations, along with the monthly challenge. It's a tough project, but it gives me discipline, and uses principles of personal development to keep me on my path. I have built in "LIFE" days that allow for me to not complete a task if I am traveling, ill, that sort of thing. Overall, however, these requirements mean that I spend about 3 hours per day doing all these things.​

Maria: What wisdom can you impart to fellow writers?

Cynthia: I've often heard that writers should establish a schedule and always write or always create, without fail, every single day. While I agree generally, I also believe in being kind to oneself so as to avoid burnout. The one way I've been able to regularly write and create all these years is by not being too regimented and allowing myself room to take a step back as needed. Creativity is a delicate muse: too much stress, or "forced" activity chases it away.

After publishing my journal, my heart and mind needed to take a mind-break. It's been a couple weeks since I've actively worked on drawing and writing (in terms of fiction stories or long drawn-out blog entries). To be sure, I allow myself to be creative in other ways: I've written poetry and done some drawing. I love creating haikus coupled with a beautiful image. I'm also getting ready to create some paintings to give away on my blog. With a little mindfulness and self-kindness, one can lead a beautiful life full of balance and bliss.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to Maria "Marcoujor" for taking the time to interview me. She is an incredible writer, friend and nurse! ​

And thank you, dear Cynthia…

You are one of the most generous people I know, in your writing and support of other writers, like me. You freely share your musical favorites and suggestions for my Marusic posts.

I loved your suggestion that I check out the talented violinist, Lindsey Stirling. What a spark plug of energy! I am thrilled beyond belief that I’ll be seeing her dance on my ‘Guilty Pleasure of 25 seasons’: Dancing With the Stars with (the amazing in his own right) pro dancer, Mark Ballas.

Let’s share some of Lindsey with my readers. You’ll be moving to this, even if in your work chair!

Some helpful links to Cynthia’s work...

The Tree of Life: A Coloring Journey
The Tree of Life: A Personal Development Journal
Intuitive and Spiritual
Get free haikus on Twitter

​ShoutOuts

☙ The truth is only an interpretation via Martie’s Foyer
​☙ Sharilee Swaity via Fireside with Rolly

Until next week, sending you hugs and peace,

mar
18 Comments
Mike
9/27/2017 10:18:18 am

Good morning mar - My goodness, the energy is practically sparking off the computer screen, Thanks for introducing us to Cynthia Sageleaf a walking definition of creativity.

Reply
Maria link
9/27/2017 06:33:28 pm

Thanks, Mike - I love your comment and think Cynthia will as well...! Hugs, mar

Reply
Rolly A. Chabot link
9/27/2017 11:22:12 am

Hi Mar and Cynthia...
Very inspirational post, loved reading all about our dear friend Cynthia and her journey... well done girls...

Hugs from Canada

Reply
Maria link
9/27/2017 06:34:37 pm

So happy you enjoyed, dear Rolly - thanks for stopping by.

Hugs, Maria

Reply
Martie link
9/27/2017 11:45:48 am

Dear Mar and Cynthia Sageleaf,

What a strange feeling I got, seeing a perfect image of myself in Cynthia. Therefor all the many compliments I have will be actually compliments to myself. But oh, that 10,000 steps a day and
60 minutes meditations are some of my unfulfilled dreams.

Hugs to both of you!



Reply
Maria link
9/27/2017 06:39:09 pm

LOL, dear Martie ... I have had similar feelings about Cynthia - I believe you would enjoy following her work as much as I do.

Hope you are well into a good night's sleep. Big hugs too, mar

Reply
Cynthia Sageleaf link
9/27/2017 09:41:55 pm

Sweet Maria! THANK YOU for letting me guest post. I'm smiling so big at the wonderful comments and how you included the video on Lindsey Sterling - I love, LOVE her music. :)
Oh, you have made my day! I had a long day at work and only just got home a wee bit ago - I've been wanting to come by ALL DAY! Sending you big hugs and so much gratitude. I'm so glad to have gotten to know you as well. You are such a gem!!

Reply
Maria link
9/28/2017 06:01:20 am

Dear Cynthia,

So happy you are pleased with this interview, as I am, Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule.

Wishing you a peaceful week - stop by anytime. Love, Maria

Reply
Rich Rumple link
9/28/2017 07:36:54 am

We've both known Cynthia for about the same time. She is a spark in a field of darkness, loyal as a friend, and as friendly as one could ever ask. I guess what I'm attempting to say is that she's definitely a keeper as a friend. lol Great interview!

Reply
Maria link
10/2/2017 06:59:46 am

Beautiful , Rich... and I know both Cynthia and I see you as a keeper as well.

Love ya and hugs, Sis

Reply
William Holland link
9/28/2017 09:51:12 am

That's my Lil Sis you're interviewing. Ain't she a pure pleasure? One day I want to meet my long, lost relative and give her a big old hug. :)

love,
bill

Reply
Maria link
10/2/2017 07:00:38 am

Love your taste in family, dear Bill.

Love you too, Maria

Reply
paula
9/28/2017 10:31:00 am

Maria....Sharing is one of your shining talents. You make marvelous discoveries and your first thought is to share them with your loved ones. I, for one, am always grateful to you for this.
Ms. Sageleaf (Cynthia) is an explosion of energy, creativity & inspiration. Her purposefulness of life paints a breathtaking vision.
Lindsey's violin perked up my spirit! This entire post is simply awesome, Maria. Just one more thing to say about Cynthia, Lindsey and YOU, my friend........WOW!!!! Hugs, Paula

Reply
Maria link
10/2/2017 07:02:15 am

I had a feeling you would love Cynthia and Lindsey as much as I do, dear Paula.

Thanks for the visit and wishing you a wonderful 'wow-filled' week!

Love and hugs, Maria

Reply
Vicki link
9/29/2017 09:22:46 am

Dear Maria,

Very enjoyable post. As Mike says, she's someone with very powerful energy! 10,000 steps daily is my dream too. Glad to 'meet' her, and I can just visualize the two of you going crazy with dancing to the video!

Reply
Maria link
10/2/2017 07:04:08 am

Dear Vickster,

So happy you enjoyed getting to know Cynthia and the energetic video from Linsdey.

Wishing you a lovely, peaceful week. Love, mareer

Reply
Sannel Larson link
10/2/2017 12:27:40 pm

Dear Maria,

Many thanks for introducing us to Cynthia Sageleaf, and for an inspirational and energetic read this evening. Just like Cynthia, I love, love, LOVE the gifted and very talented violinist, Lindsey Stirling myself.

Take care, and I wish both of you a wonderful week.

Hugs,

Sannel

Reply
Maria link
10/5/2017 06:44:03 am

I had a feeling you would love both Cynthia and Lindsey, dear Sannel.

Wishing you and Freddie a happy and peaceful week as well.

Love, Maria

Reply



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    Marcoujor

    Welcome to my desk...

    I am a work in progress, so a rule of thumb is to expect the unexpected every week!

    Pull up a comfy chair and make yourself at home.

    Thank you,

    mar  



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