As my dog barks incessantly at our friend who is at our house installing new baseboards and doors, I am lost in several stories being told by friends and clients.  These stories are raw with honesty, powerful with imagery, and mindful without any bullshit. As I watch and read these stories, I’m also seeing scattered debris lefts on the streets of the East Coast due to Hurricane Sandy and hearing discombobulated recaps of the political debates – as the days of voting draw to a close.  Gratefully, the positive of the stories is outweighing the negative of the global drama.

When I think about my work and what I want to contribute to our world, two words come to mind: CREATE BEAUTY.  It’s clear that our world continues to struggle to do this.  As a result of our struggle, we err on the side of egoically enhanced drama, and I’m growing less amused.  Yes my heart is with my friends, relatives, and all who are being hit by the storm out East and yes, we need to vote and be engaged with the political choice ahead of us for only a few more days – but beyond that, my wish is to go forth in my work and life, creating beauty.

So in honor of creating beauty, I want to share with you the stories + projects that have captivated me over this past week.  So make yourself a cup of tea, snuggle in and be in awe:

DamNation Film — presented by Patagonia + produced by Stoecker Ecological and Felt Soul Media.

Art of Attention — Elena Brower + Erica Jago

Gimp Monkeys — presented by Arc’Teryx + produced by Duct Tape Then Beer

And I will always be impressed by intricate precision of my brother’s hand, as he masterfully builds guitars – Clay Conner Guitars.