Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications taught her 2 hour “Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku” workshop at the Escondido Library on February 27, 2025. Many thanks to Principal Librarian, Adult Services Azar Katouzian for hosting/coordinating the workshop and for her photos.
Thanks as always to all of the participants for attending, interacting and sharing their work!
Left to right: Debbie, Jessica, Susan, Debi, Pamela, Rudy and Oliver Photos by Azar Katouzian; Collage by SJF Communications
We began with an interactive fun ice breaker – getting to know each other.
After introductions and a review of her published work, Susan taught her Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared her nature photography as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. We all practiced writing Haiku and had the opportunity to share our work. As always, it was a great discussion and we equally had so much to say about the creative process and the parallels with Haiku poetry and visual arts.
Enjoy these Haiku from Susan’s nature photography prompts….
“Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku” Workshop
Escondido Library 2/27/2025
Sunset Cliffs – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Little waves be small
but will always strike truly
As us humans be
by Oliver (age 9)!
~
Mist above white waves
Rumbling sea below the rocks
People, perched above!
by Susan
Hummingbird – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Little hummingbird
Will fly faster peacefully
When the flowers bloom.
by Oliver
~
Master of the flight
Protective of its life space
Drinker of nectar
by Debi
Rocks at Torrey Pines State Beach- Photo by Susan J. Farese
Small pebbles might fall
still they keep their own balance
And strong in sunlight.
by Oliver
Sunset – Photo by Susan J. Farese
The blood-red night sky
Conjured from the depths of hell
Message from Hades
by Debi
Moon Rise and Yellow Traffic Light – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Captured by the Moon
Saw the signal to slow down
Thank you, universe
by Pamela
Carlsbad Flower Field – Photo by Susan J. Farese
I can find comfort
In a crowd of wild flowers
But not with people
by Pamela
~
Beautiful flowers
Delicate, colored petals
Waving in the breeze
by Debbie
Julian Leaves – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Crispy, rustling leaves
A potpourri of colors
Waiting for a rake
by Debbie
Great White Egret at Santee Lakes- Photo by Susan J. Farese
Susan (great white egret)
Ivory plunge
Contemplating the nest step
Great white egret soars!
Jacaranda Tree- Photo by Susan J. Farese
Jacaranda trees
Bloom but once annually
Purple hues unite!
by Susan
More Haiku Inspired by the workshop
My hesitant breath
Fear, my mountain Everest
Eyes open I jump.
by Rudy
~
Ruffles, the dog
Morning you are there
Hungry you seek attention
Soft coat ruffles hand.
by Rudy
~
Colors red and blue
Visit me and leave fast
Dreams of flying now.
by Rudy
Heavy
Blanket of darkness
Feels like a heavy blanket
Covering my soul
by Debi
~
Broken
Pieces of my heart
Shattering to the cruel Earth
I lie here, broken.
by Debi
~
Soaring, easy flight
Masters of the ancient sky
Behold, my dragon
by Debi
Writing in silence
Hum of imagination
Words vibrate inside
by Pamela
It’s 80 degrees
Doesn’t feel like wintertime
in Escondido
by Debbie
~
Pickle Ball has rules
Don’t volley in the kitchen
Or you’ll lose the point
by Debbie
~
Montessori School
Wonderful community
Of special people
by Debbie
Waikoloa
Warm sun, gently breaking waves
Me, fully relaxed
by Jessica
~
Sea turtle swimming
In the warm afternoon sun
So oblivious
by Jessica
~
With snorkel and mask
Sea turtles and rainbow fish
Such a sparkling world
by Jessica
For more information or to book a workshop (Individual or Group) with Susan: Information LINK: https://sjfcommunications.com/haiku-workshops/ Or, Email info@sjfcommunications.com or sjfcommunications@gmail.com.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
I thoroughly enjoy teaching my SJF Communications “Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku” Workshops at local libraries, online or in person elsewhere! I’ve been teaching on and off since 2018. Here are some photos and poems from participants from my most recent (4) Haiku workshops. Whether I have 2 participants or 20, I still savor the outcome – creative writing with Haiku combined with my nature photography (or other inspirations the attendees might have)!
I’ve added photos and several Haiku poems from my recent workshops at the Ramona (SD County), Skyline Hills (SD City), Casa de Oro (SD County) and Bonita-Sunnyside (SD County) Libraries. As always, it’s so rewarding for me to see how creativity develops with attendees! As a contracted performer/instructor for the County as well as City of San Diego, I want to thank the library branches, and Friends of the Libraries for all of your support and all of the attendees for joining in me in these “Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku” Workshops!
For more information or to book a workshop (Individual or Group) with Susan: Information LINK: https://sjfcommunications.com/haiku-workshops/ Or, Email info@sjfcommunications.com or sjfcommunications@gmail.com.
Collage from Haiku workshop by Susan J. Farese at Ramona Library and Skyline Hills Library
Here below, my nature photography prompts which encouraged and sparked Haiku writing about the actual photos seen. Additionally, some poems were written with attendees thoughts after our workshop, (not necessarily photo prompts). It’s all good! Enjoy these Haiku….
From the Ramona Library 6/26/2024
Bouquet
Hand painted with much love
Anniversary flowers
Farmer’s Market joy!
~ Anita (No photo, she had memory from the bouquet her husband gave her for their anniversary)! Also, Carol was in attendance – we are looking for her Haiku!
From theSkyline Hills Library8/31/2024
Sunset Cliffs – Photo by Susan J. Farese
The Ocean
I go to the beach
for my self-preservation
Rejuvinate ME
~ Jacquelyn
Julian Leaves – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Scents of Season
I feel crispiness
My mood changes at this time
This is my season
~ Jacquelyn
Orange Flower – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Orange Flower
Alien flower?
Blood vessels on yellow skin
Alien or not?
Nature – Space or Earth?
External organ
Dead alive or in between
Scary as can be
Secret morgue flower
Red blood vessels on yellow
A new dimension?
Putrid slimy wet
Unnaturally warm, dark
Beautiful bloody.
~ Carol Ann
From the Casa de Oro Library 9/6/2024
Haiku, Casa de Oro Library, Blaca, Joy, Susan, Cathrine
It’s the Simple Things
Crisp air, bees buzzing
Calm whispers of morning sun
Sweet serenity!
~ Anonymous
Untitled
What happened to you?
Was there nothing that intrigued?
Was that all my fault?
All those days before
My love kept your interest
Until it didn’t
How was I to know
You were just a whip-poor-will
Any flower would do
Now I don’t get close
Nothing’s worth the grief, the shock
The pain of loss sucks
Now I thank my stars
That I can still show love
Unabashedly
My love is my love
I can fondly show it
Surely not to you.
There’s a lesson there
I don’t have to hate myself
For not being enough
It is not from lack
I am just too good for you
Sit with that, you chump!
~ Joy
And Cathrine had to leave early, but she was a delight as well! Here is her photo and a few Haiku poems:
Untitled
Mother’s precious love
Gentle, kind, gives of herself
Gets kisses and hugs
~
Untitled
A harvest full moon
Shines brightly in the dark sky
Creates ocean tides
~Cathrine
From the Bonita-Sunnyside Library 9/7/2024
Claire, Susan and Christina at Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku, Bonita-Sunnyside Library 9/7/2024
Moon Rising at Yellow Traffic Light – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Untitled
Hottest year ever
And the coldest from now on
Apocalypse now
~Christina
Hummingbird – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Untitled
Ruby, sapphire flash
Little bully hummingbird
Never time to pause
~ Claire
Untitled
Beauty suspended
In perpetual motion
Greedy bully wins
and a second one from Christina….
Untitled
Nature’s abundance
Capital’s scarcity myth
How pointless to fight
~Christina
Thank you for visiting my website!
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
The following are Haiku poems from my recent workshops in Lakeside and Casa de Oro, CA. It’s always so rewarding for me to see how creativity develops with attendees! Sometimes, my nature photography prompts (or attendee’s photos) will encourage and spark writing about the actual photos seen, sometimes, a creative spark ignites and words appear that bring the past to light!
Enjoy these Haiku….
A yellow moonrise
Will it being mischief or peace?
We shall wait and see
-Anonymous attendee at library
RESCUE ME
How miraculous
A sister! A family!
Light in the darkness
-Attendee who discovered she had a half-sister a few years ago….
after losing both of her parents.
~
Thirty-four years gone
It is still hard to believe
I live, love, for you.
-Attendee about the loss of her parent
Incessant drumming
Wet Earth, muddy paws, messy
Where are you sunshine?
Attendee who wrote this reflecting on the noisy (and seemingly endless) rain…
GRATEFUL
Phenomenal me
I have crawled through broken
To a life I love
~
34 years gone
It is still hard to believe
I live, love, for you.
Attendee wrote about resilience and loss…
FLOWERS
Birds of paradise
Colorful, feathery plumes
Gently swaying tall
-Attendee writing about a favorite flower, at library workshop
Once an awesome Miss
Succumbs to the elements
And passes away…
Time’s a miracle
That so loses its intrigue
The longer it goes.
Was it what you thought?
Are the gates really pearly?
Or was it a myth?
Did you get to hear
the celestial choir hymns?
Was it what you dreamed?
Are you joining in?
Do you feel at home there yet?
Do you know you are gone?
Did you meet Danny?
Is he who you thought he’d be?
Was he grown or not?
Was he as happy
To finally meet Mommy?
He waited so long.
Did you see Jesus?
Was he what you thought he’d be?
Did he know your name?
-Attendee writing about recent loss of her Mother
CEDAR WAXWINGS
This fluttering flock
All swooping down together
Perching on branches
Softly twittering
With jaunty crested heads and
Pale yellow bellies
Searching for berries
AS bright as their red-tipped wings
So hungry in Spring.
Their grumpy faces
Wearing black masquerade masks
Always make me smile
Attendee that enjoys birdwatching and is especially is intrigued by Cedar Waxwings!
~
HARPER
Leash Manners – take 2
An all-breed puppy
Soft white fur, muscle and bone
Perpetual smile
She’s ready to play
Joyful and exuberant
Yet happy to work
Busy all the time
She zooms through the garden to
Hunt, chase, dig and bark
I call her to me
She quivers with excitement
To practice our tricks
Looping around me
Weaving with agility
Through my walking legs
When we are both tired
We will snuggle together
Relaxed on the couch.
Attendee who write about her dog Harper!
CAREGIVING
I care, I love, who?
Never in my wildest dreams
My care for elders!
Truly I did so
Wholeheartedly giving all
Nothing left for myself
Now injured, who cares?
Overwhelming pain, depressed
Love, care for ME first!
Tender loving care
Memories of Mom and Dad
Worthiness of life!
Attendee reflecting on the toll and satisfaction that caregiving had for her…
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications taught her 2 hour SJF Communications “Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku” workshop on May 24th at the Julian Branch Library. Many thanks to Josh Mitchell, Branch Manager and Friends of the Julian Library for hosting the workshop.
Mark was a solo attendee that day, and we made the best of it!
We began with an interactive fun ice breaker. After introductions and a review of her published work (with Haiku and other forms of poetry), Susan taught her Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared nature photography, including several photos of roses and flowers, plus other nature photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. We practiced writing Haiku and had the opportunity to share our work. It was a great discussion and we equally had so much to say about the creative process and the parallels with Haiku poetry and visual arts.
Here is a glimpse of us, along with the photo prompts and written Haiku for the afternoon.
Susan Mark and SusanSusan and Josh (Library Branch Manager)
Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku at the Julian Branch Library 5/24/2022
Moon Rise and Yellow Traffic Light (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Rings of Gold
electric yellow
round, in a black box says slow
in sunlit moonrise
– Mark
Moonrise/Yellow Light
Moon rose to the east
Yellow traffic light appeared
Serendipity
-Susan
Pacific Highlands Ranch Trail (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Earth and Sky
dusty clay stretches
around a corner….fading
cool clouds pressing down
-Mark
Mysterious Orange Flower (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Mysterious Orange Flower
Orange yellow hues
Veinlike markings encircle
A bursting flower
-Susan
Bench at Santee Lakes (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Bench at Santee Lakes
Bench solitude
Lonely, uninhabited
Summer pause, sit down!
-Susan
Blooming Jacarandas in May (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Blooming Jacarandas in May
Hues of violet
Lilac-blue and trumpet-shaped
Jacaranda tree!
A late Spring bloomer
Colorful, urban flower
Bravely blooms with awe
-Susan
For more information about attending our
Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku Workshop, click below!:
We began with an interactive fun ice breaker – getting to know each other.
After introductions and a review of her published work (with Haiku and other forms of poetry), Susan taught her Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared nature photography, including several photos of roses and flowers, plus other nature photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. We all practiced writing Haiku and had the opportunity to share our work. One woman had to leave early so she didn’t contribute a poem. It was a great discussion and we equally had so much to say about the creative process and the parallels with Haiku poetry and visual arts.
Here is a glimpse of us, along with the photo prompts and written Haiku for the afternoon.
Anna’s Hummingbird Feeding (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Aroma beckons
Vibrating and fluttering
Delightful humming!
-Marilyn
Bold Flower and Butterfly (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Vivid fuschia bed
Black and orange butterfly
Rests! Summer respite!
-Susan
Moon Rise and Yellow Traffic Light (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
All of a sudden
Yellow traffic light appears
Inviting moon shine!
-Susan
Julian Leaves – (Photo
Julian Leaves – (Photo by Susan J Farese)
Crunchy country sounds
A potpourri of color
Autumn leaves do fall!
-Susan
Elizabeth chose one of her photos on her phone of a beautiful rose, Here is her Haiku:
I was thrilled to be invited by San Diego State University Communications Professor Patricia Geist-Martin, Ph.D., to present a virtual (Zoom) shortened session of Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku to her upper level undergraduate course – COM 428 class: Communicating Workplace Wellness.
This was on December 8th, one of the last days of the Fall, 2020 semester (and of course during the current challenging pandemic).
We started with Dr. Geist-Martin introducing me, followed by my brief bio, PowerPoint presentation and photos to encourage writing. The students had the choice of writing from several different prompts i.e. one of the photos that I showed to them, the best day in your life, or worst day in your life, pandemic related stress, love, nature, seasonal, etc.
What a wonderful afternoon! It was amazing how quickly the students formed their haiku! They were so attentive, enlightening . The session was interactive via audio or adding their haiku or questions or comments to the chat area. I added some suggestions with a few haiku…
Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications
SDSU COM 428 – 12.8.2020
Love is happiness
The warmth and security
everlasting comfort!
-Leah
SJF suggestion: last line can be changed to: comfort, everlast!
The cold breeze is strong,
the sun falls behind the cliffs,
winter has begun
-Natalie
Lookout the window
Snow is falling from the sky
The candle brings warmth
-Adrian
Ninety days and night
Future grown in the sunlight,
Early retirement found.
-Daniel
SJF suggestion: Last line can be changed to: retire early? (with ? at the end)
Red nose, cooling breeze
Hot cocoa warming cold hands
Nights bring colored lights
-Melissa
Workplace wellness is
Communication together
Thanks for your effort
-Josah
SJF suggestion: 2nd line could be: people/persons/students (either) communicating
Though we are deprived
I find myself healing with
You. Hope you stay well.
-Josah
SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be : I find that I heal with you (7- heal is one syllable!)
SJF suggestion: 3rd line can be: I hope you stay well
I met you thank god
gently adventurous, you are
breeze to my summer
-Alma
SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: gentle, adventurous you
Family is here,
sitting around the fire pit,
this is Christmas time
-Natalie
SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: sits around the fire pit
Morning desert light
First show the sun will put on today
Cold breeze turns to heat
– Gladys
SJF suggestion:2nd line can be: first show sun puts on today
Whistle of the wind,
my soul flutters through the sky,
seeking peace in mind
– Kayla
The blissful nature,
calms my wandering mind
that comforts my soul
-Taylor
SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: calms down my wandering mind
Staring at my love
Under a sky full of stars
Will you marry me?
-Janell
Looking out to see
Something new in my landscape
To transform my life
-Patricia
Inside is raging
Silently hoping for change
Awaken what’s lost
-Patricia
What an amazing afternoon! Thank you to Dr. Patricia Geist-Martin for inviting me and for the students for participating!
We had a wonderful virtual 2 hour SJF Communications Haiku workshop, ‘Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku’ via Zoom on August 29th.
Best part of it…these were my two friends, Ann Stowe and Karen De Arana, that decided to give Haiku a try! Wow, they really delivered!
We began with a review of my professional history and experience with Haiku and poetry as well as a short ice-breaker.
Next, after introductions and a review of my work with poetry, I taught my Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared several (16) of my nature (and other) photography photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. Besides the photo prompts, we had a choice to also write either about our experiences dealing with the isolation and angst of the Covid-19 pandemic or the ‘best’ or ‘worst’ day in our lives.
Everyone practiced writing Haiku and finally we had the opportunity to share our work. It was a delightful time with two fabulous ladies. They wrote some amazing Haiku!
Here’s a glimpse of our enlightened attendees written Haiku along with photo prompts we chose that day!
Joshua Tree Flowers –Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Lying in the grass
Wind coaxing flowers to dance
Gazing at the sky!
~ Karen
Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Roaring waves crashing
Thundering across the cliffs
Loudly pounding shore!
~ Ann
Moon Rise & Yellow Traffic Light
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
All of a sudden
Moon rose at the yellow light
Serendipity!
~ Susan
Julian Leaves – Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Autumn is now here
A kaleidoscope palette
Welcomes the season!
~Ann
Summer stirs the trees
Leaves fall as darkness chills air
Look! Vibrant colors!
~Karen
Waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon Trail
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Hike in the canyon
Flowers, scents and landscapes too
Look – A waterfall!
~ Susan
Great White Egret at Santee Lakes
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Waited patiently
Water serene, time just right-
The egret took fight!
~ Susan
Thoughts on Covid-19 & the Coronavirus Pandemic
(Stock Photo)
Consumed with media
Newsflash! People are dying!
Covid sucks big time.
~ Ann
Depression and angst
Weight gain and isolation
When will it all cease?
~ Karen
We celebrated with a high five!
And ended on a happy workshop note!
And when it as nearly over, I read my poems ‘Ann’s Zest Ends’ and my Haiku ‘Crisis & Hope’ aloud. I really miss doing live presentations and readings..
Come on Covid-19. Lets get this pandemic under control so we can truly be social again!
I look forward to teaching many more workshops in the future – virtual or in person!
A recap of our workshop w/connection, creativity and sharing!
Our 4/5/2020 Zoom class: ‘Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku’ Top – Left to Right: Bonnie, Susan, Millie Bottom – Left to Right: Janice, Mary Jean, Lori
Five lovely women attended our 2 hour SJF Communications Haiku workshop, ‘Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku’ through San Diego Writer’s, Ink via Zoom on April 5th 2020. Once I figured out the system (video, sound, muting, unmuting, locking, etc.), it was a blast!
It was my first time teaching with Zoom and now I am hooked! In fact, I am planning another virtual Haiku workshop via San Diego Writer’s, Ink tentatively on June 7th from 10-12 noon. Stay tuned for details TBA.
We began with a review of my professional history and experience with Haiku and Poetry. After that, we did an interactive interesting and most of all fun ‘ice-breaker’ – getting to know each other a bit more.
Next, after introductions and a review of my work with poetry, I taught my Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared several (16) of my nature (and other) photography photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. Everyone practiced writing Haiku and finally we had the opportunity to share our work. It was a delightful time with such a lovely group of creative empowered women!
Here’s a glimpse of our enlightened attendees written Haiku along with photo prompts they chose that day!
Anna’s Hummingbird – Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
A simple creature
Delving into his sweetness
Bringing joy to all
– Lori
~
Hummingbird hornets
This Spring when hope hides from us
Kids drink from sippies
– Millie
Snowy Egret “Bad Hair Day” – Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
A morning outlook
Wind ruffling my feathers
What to do today
-Lori
~
Eager and ready
Able with wings to take flight
Planted feet instead
-Mary Jean
~
White feathers ruffle
Lake reflections wrinkles
The visible wind
-Bonnie
Coachella Valley Preserve – Thousand Palms Oasis McCallum Pond Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
New discovery
A promise of refreshment
Flies! They found this too
-Mary Jean
Waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon Trail – Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Water falls steady
From granite to constant lake
Upstaged by frailty
-Mary Jean
Joshua Tree Flowers –Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Lupine violet
Rises above dusty green
Poking the still air
-Millie
Coachella Valley Preserve – Thousand Palms Oasis Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Palm trees like bear hugs
Only my hairless arms wrap
Tomorrow your gaze clears
-Millie
Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Whirling eternal surf
Salty water splashes ashore
No virus in sea
-Janice
Moon Rise & Yellow Traffic Light Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Stop full moon overhead
Secrets hide the dusky light
Car horn, now mundane
-Janice
Julian Leaves Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Crunchy leaves crackle
Sun comfort through bare branches
Seasons change, do I?
-Janice
Tahquitz Canyon Overlooking Palm Springs Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Puffy clouds hover
Gentle wind rustles leaves on trees
City sleeps, no danger.
-Janice
Plus, Lori and Mary Jean wrote some additional Haiku without photo prompts! Way to go!
SJF Communications has been closely monitoring the uncertainty and actively changing ongoing situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19).
We are taking guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and local authorities and are rescheduling several upcoming events, including client events as well as our SJF Communications Haiku workshops.
We want to thank you for your support and appreciate your patience and cooperation as we navigate this evolving situation.
We will update Facebook event pages with schedule changes as they develop.
Eight women attended our 2 hour SJF Communications Haiku workshop ‘Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku’ on January 18th, 2020 at the Poway Community Library.
We began with an interactive fun ‘ice-breaker’ – getting to know each other a bit more. Next, after introductions and a review of my work with poetry, I taught my Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared several of my nature photography and other photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. Everyone practiced writing Haiku and finally we had the opportunity to share our work. It was a delightful time with such a lovely group of creative empowered women!
Here’s a glimpse of our enlightened attendees along with photo prompts and written Haiku from that day! I also contributed a few!
Workshop leader/presenter Susan J. Farese with attendees (Back Row): Grace, Karen, Karla, Ninon, Laurie and Cheran; (Front Row): Kathy and Xochih.
1. Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall Photo by Susan J. Farese
Water tumbles down
forest leaves reach for the ground
a cool pool, respite.
-Karen
Waterfall rushing
thundering sound breaks silence
in awe of nature
-Cheran
2. Bench at Santee Lakes Photo by Susan J. Farese
A bench welcomes me-
have a seat and rest yourself
just breathe in and out
-Cheran
A bench beckons you
verdant grass and flowing
rest and contemplate
-Karen
Our summer is gone
and no one is sitting here
on the lonely bench
And in Japanese:
私たちの夏は去りました
そして誰もここに座っていません
孤独なベンチで
Watashitachi no natsu wa sarimashita soshite dare mo koko ni
suwatte imasen kodokuna benchi de
-Grace
3. Moon Rise and Yellow Traffic Light Photo by Susan J. Farese
A long day has passed
amidst the busy hustle
the bright moon greets me
-Karen
When I’m coming home
showing the same shape as moon
the yellow signal!
And in Japanese
家に帰るとき
月と同じ形を示す
黄色の信号！
Ie ni kaeru toki tsuki to onaji katachi o shimesu kiiro no
shingō!
-Grace
All of a sudden
moon rose, traffic light yellow-
serendipity!
-Susan
4. Anna’s Hummingbird Feasting Photo by Susan J. Farese
Little hummer sits
head bent prayerfully drinking-
a blessed moment!
-Cheran
5. Torrey Pines State Beach Photo by Susan J. Farese
Earth and ocean meet
waves crash and rocks tumble down
the clouds bear witness
-Karen
6. Great White Egret at Santee Lakes Photo by Susan J. Farese
The water glistened
fanned plumage captivating!
Great White Egret soared!
-Susan
Legs stretched, beak pointed
wings forming mushroom bellows
ready to take flight
-Cheran
Very beautiful
the open wings are such fun
The Great White Egret
And in Japanese:
非常に美しい
開いた翼はとても楽しい
白eg鳥
Hijō ni utsukushī aita tsubasa wa totemo tanoshī shiro eg
tori
-Grace
7. Autumn Photo Credit: Unknown
Crimson foliage
flutters from the azure sky
float on silent lakes.
-Karen
Beautiful red leaves
showing us their reflection
on an Autumn lake
And in Japanese:
美しい紅葉
彼らの反射を見せて
秋の湖で
Utsukushī kōyō karera no hansha o misete akinoumi de
-Grace
8. Two Egrets at Torrey Pines State Beach Photo by Susan J. Farese
Birds stop for a chat
beaks greeting in warm friendship
Oh glorious morn!
9. Trail at Pacific Highlands Ranch, Carmel Valley, San Diego Photo by Susan J. Farese
Beginning right now
feeling earth beneath my feet
starting my journey
-Karla
10. Sunset Cliffs Photo by Susan J. Farese
Jagged rocky edge
salty waves roll in and out
cares ride on the waves
-Karla
The waves foaming white
rocks sure of their position
jutting out to sea
-Cheran
The Oceans spirit
awakens my soul and heart-
quiets my deep pain
-Laurie
Rigid and solid
stone is no match for water-
time transforms all things
-Ninon
11. Joshua Tree Flowers photo by Susan J. Farese
Purple flowers stand
along the desert valley
embracing simple
-Karla
Fields of purple blooms
swaying gently in the breeze
Mother Earth awakes!
-Ninon
12. Snow! Photo credit: Unknown
Snow, ice and water
winter chill invigorates
the body and soul
-Ninon
13. Coachella Valley Preserve – Thousand Palms Oasis McCallum Pond Photo by Susan J. Farese
Debra Wanger – The Resilient Actor – Photo Credit – Ken Jacques
(SAN DIEGO, September 23, 2019) – Actor, Author, Coach and Public Speaker, Debra Wanger is an often-sought-after professional actor, well known in the San Diego region. She published her debut book The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass In the Business Without It Kicking Your Ass in 2017 and is thrilled to announce the upcoming The Resilient Actor Audiobook and The Resilient Actor Workbook & Planner: How to Kick Ass in the Business Without It Kicking Your Ass.
“I’ve worked with Hollywood stars and actors currently working on Broadway. I have been able to utilize the secrets of their behind-the-scenes success along with my skills as a wellness coach and my own personal experience. I’ve worked mostly in live regional theatre, but also some television, film, and radio. When I left my BFA program and started working professionally, I had to learn the hard way all the life and balance skills they didn’t teach at the conservatory. There was a lot of focus on being a triple threat, on performance skills, but nothing about how to survive the challenging life of being an actor. I fought depression, loneliness, weight gain, difficulty navigating periods of unemployment, all of it. Like most actors, I had to learn how to get the rest & recovery I needed, how to master my mindset to work with me – not against me, and how to take care of myself like a performing athlete. I had to learn all these life skills beyond my BFA.” – Debra Wanger
Acting can be a crazy
profession, full of uncertainty, insecurity, and unpredictability. While there
are many books about technique, little has been written about how to pursue the
dream without compromising your health and sanity. Pulling from her decades of
experience as an actor, talent manager, and lifestyle coach, Debra Wanger
filled this void in 2016 with a must-read survival guide for the acting
professional.
Debra offers a positive, practical, playful, holistic approach to the art and business of acting that marries mind, body, spirit, and craft. In this essential handbook, which serves as a personal coach in a book, she covers all the bases–from exercise and nutrition to time management and setting goals to staying motivated from audition through performance. Her valuable, tried-and-true insights, gained from client successes, will enable the performing artist to balance and bolster a challenging creative career with a healthy, productive personal life.
At last there’s a clear
path through the madness. The Resilient Actor will lead you to the top
of your game, increase your professional staying power, and help you achieve
equilibrium in all aspects of your life.
ABOUT THE RESILIENT ACTOR’S WORKBOOK AND PLANNER:
Discover some of the secrets from Broadway & Hollywood to supercharge your career and balance your life. Debra Wanger knows how difficult it can be to pursue your dream of acting without compromising your health or your sanity. She drew wisdom from decades of working as an actor, talent manager, and wellness coach to write The Resilient Actor and give emerging and experienced actors a holistic approach to their profession that marries mind, body, spirit, and craft. Sustaining a healthy and satisfying career requires more than just talent- go beyond the skills you learned in your BFA program.
The Resilient Actor’s Workbook and Planner is filled with quick & easy exercises designed to help you plot the direction for your career from the start and avoid the pitfalls that many actors face. You’ll walk through the steps to figure out what kind of actor you want to be and the lifestyle you want to have. You’ll set goals and develop habits for your career and use the specially-designed included actors’ planner to create a step-by-step action and accountability plan for achieving them. The Resilient Actor’s Workbook and Planner will unlock longevity in your career by showing you how to find happiness and health in an industry that challenges both.
Debra Wanger – Photo Credit – Ken Jacques
BIO – DEBRA WANGER
Debra studied acting at
the nationally acclaimed Piven Theatre Workshop with such talents as John
Cusack, Joan Cusack, and Jeremy Piven. Her vocal training began at the
Northwestern University vocal department while still attending high school. She
declined an opera scholarship to Oberlin Conservatory in order to study musical
theatre at University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM.) She
graduated Magna Cum Laude from Tufts University and received a Master of Fine
Arts in musical theatre from San Diego State University, where she graduated
Phi Kappa Phi as a Marion Ross Scholar.
Debra is currently in rehearsals as “Liz”- the younger version of Queen Elizabeth in Handbagged at Moxie Theatre which runs October 19th through November 17th. She has performed in regional theatres and cabaret clubs across the country, most frequently in Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, and South Florida. In Professionally Speaking at the Off-Broadway, The Miami Herald hailed her “a comic spark plug.” Her role in Triumph of Love won a KPBS-TV Patté award. Her one-woman show My Nights With George, Kurt & Cole, (co-written and directed by comic genius, Phil Johnson) was featured at various venues throughout Southern California and won Best New Play and Best Actress at the 2003 San Diego Actors Festival, and the San Diego Playbill Billie Award for Best Actress in a musical.
She was just featured as
The Angel in Cygnet Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of Angels in America, as well as A
Little Night Music, On the 20th Century, Spring Awakening, My Fair Lady, Evita,
Sweeney Todd and Dogfight on
the Cygnet stage. At San Diego Musical Theatre has been featured in Hairspray,Billy Elliot, Footloose, Sound of Music, La Cage Aux Folles, and White
Christmas. Other San
Diego theatre highlights include: God of
Vengeance at La Jolla Playhouse, Hamlet (Gertrude)
at Intrepid; Titanic & Sunset Blvd. at Moonlight; Permanent Collection at Mo’olelo; Full Monty (Vicki) at New Village Arts; Sleeping Beauty at North Coast Rep; Anything Goes! (Reno), Oliver! (Nancy) at Lyric Opera San Diego; Carousel and Sound
of Music at Lawrence Welk.
Her CD, Driving My Own Heart is
also available on Amazon and iTunes.
BOOK REVIEWS:
“This book is fantastic.
I’m a professional actor and also teach acting, and will recommend it to all my
students. It’s a topic not discussed enough! Resilience is one of the most
important qualities for any working actor–if not THE most important quality.
Highly recommended!”
-Amy Griffin
“The Resilient Actor by Debra Wanger is a valuable and refreshing resource for anyone in the acting profession who wants to elevate their career while attaining balance in their life. Wanger delivers a motivating, witty, and practical workbook that is bound to bring about positive and healthy change on the road to success.”
-C.K.
“I found The Resilient Actor to be very helpful to me as a musician even though the book was written for actors. It was a great reminder of how to be proactive instead of waiting for the phone to ring and how to keep active always working on your craft. It was a good reminder that even successful creative people never let up on getting their name and face out there and true artists know that their profession is always a work in progress. The book really gave me good solid tips on how to stay healthy mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually; especially when you are in between work projects. I would highly recommend this book to anyone in the business or that is thinking about getting in the business to get a reality check for the persistence needed as well as the care and feeding of the artist in you. Loved it and will continue to use it as a reference!”
Best known for her ability to present complex ideas in a clear and entertaining way, Dr. Schroeter has published in the areas of integrating somatic psychotherapy with other modalities, such as self-psychology, affect (mood) regulation and interpersonal neurobiology. Communication Breakthrough shows how the brain reacts under stress and provides powerful body techniques to easily shift moods for successful communication.
QUOTE from Dr. Schroeter:
“As the 4th of 12 children, I was intrigued by all our different personalities. By age 16, I knew I wanted to be a counselor. Coming from a working class family, I put myself through college and graduate school in order to pursue my dreams.
I had a forty-two year career as a clinical psychotherapist, focusing on body-mind psychology. I have noticed a common theme in my professional as well as personal life, which is how people suffer when they do not know how to communicate well. My current passion is to help people communicate better. My recent studies in neuroscience (mind) along with my long-term work in somatic psychotherapy (body) allow me to provide original and effective communication tools.”
SJF: Tell us about the book Communication Breakthrough – how you came up with the theme, how long it took to write it? Why did you write it? Where did you write it?
VS: I was teaching doctor-patient communication at PCOM (Pacific College of Oriental Medicine), when I decided that a book for the public on improving communication, both better listening and better expression, would be valuable. In my clinical practice as a psychotherapist I witnessed marriages end and families suffer partially because people did not know how to best communicate their needs and wants to each other.
I came up with the theme of combining neuroscience with somatic awareness as a lens to view communication. While there are many communication books, no one has combined these two up-to-date methods that can inform best practices. Since I am schooled in both models, I explain them in clear and accessible ways for the average person to apply in improving expression and listening.
I wrote the book over five years, often in the quiet of the library, as I find the focused stillness conducive to my concentration. I did all the sketches for my book, often in the library also.
SJF: What experiences and/or people (parents, role models etc.) in your life influenced you the most and why?
VS: My parents were both strong, faith-filled, and family-oriented stalwarts of getting along with others. They raised a big family and we were expected to help each other and enjoy our connections as siblings. We worked together in the family business and also played sports together. I think that influenced my interest in exploring how people get along with each other.
SJF: What have been your three most memorable experiences (positive or negative)?
VS: Finding the right person to marry, suffering two ectopic pregnancies, and rising from that tragedy by adopting the most beautiful child in the world.
SJF: Which job have you enjoyed the most and why (and the least and why)?
VS: I have thoroughly enjoyed my career as a psychotherapist, especially in private practice for over forty years. I like exploring with people what their defenses are, what their dreams are, and providing a compassionate ear and assortment of tools to help them reach those dreams.
The job I enjoyed the least was peeling skins off of steamed tomatoes in stultifying heat as they came down a conveyer belt in a cannery. It was the summer of 1968. Our family business had just burned down. My parents and we older siblings had to work in the local cannery to put food on the table. So I did not complain. But the monotony would make my mind wander, I would get dreamy, stare off into space and then I would get yelled at. I couldn’t wait for that summer to end so I could go away to college. Which I did.
SJF: Accomplishments/Recognitions?
VS: Professional: I received a Masters in Psychology and my license to practice at age 25. I went back to graduate school, doing research on infant-mother bonding and received a PhD at age 49. I was the Coordinating Trainer for SCIBA, a post graduate training program in Bioenergetic Analysis for many years, as well as teaching and giving workshops and keynotes on subjects related to somatic psychotherapy internationally. I have published many papers on somatic psychotherapy and some of my art and poetry have also been published. I was chief editor of the IIBA professional journal for ten years.
VS: I do not like this question as it seems to invite comparisons of who I am to who I could have been. It would invite a rejection of any younger version of myself. I have learned from my mistakes, which just makes me a person richer for having swum in those waters. I can search my memory banks when someone feels shame or guilt, to see times when I may have been shackled by the bonds of shame or guilt. It helps me understand and identify with others who are suffering. But I refuse to carry shame or guilt around on a regular basis. They weigh too much. I am happy with my past and present.
SJF: What are you most proud of?
VS: Snagging a loving husband who is my best friend, raising a daughter who is a wonderful person to be around, loving two darling grandsons who own my heart and my close bond with my eleven siblings.
Vincentia Schroeter, Ph.D. and 3 of her 11 siblings!
SJF: Any difficult decisions?
VS: Nothing comes to mind. Once I make up my mind, I just do things, even if (for example having to confront someone when there is a conflict) I know it may cause suffering for me, for them or for both of us.
SJF: What’s the most difficult thing about writing?
VS: Just making the time and committing to getting going. Then maybe over obsessing on edits. I am very slow but like to be thorough on proofreading, so it takes me forever to proof other people’s work as well as my own. I go over it a million times like an ant exploring one blade of grass for a long, long time. That can be time consuming but I can’t seem to go any faster, so I have to just accept the tediousness of it.
SJF: What do you envision for the book, Communication Breakthrough?
VS: Global Dominance. Just kidding. I want it to be lifted by a strong wind and carried across the miles into homes, offices and classrooms and picked up by folks who are lonely or angry or scared or sad and need a little nudge to improve their relationships with others. They read, learn and start practicing tools for better listening and tools for clearer expression, and viola, they feel happier. (Interpersonal happiness is more satisfying than global dominance anyway).
SJF: Any fears? Doubts?
VS: Do I ever feel fear? Yes. Do I have doubts? Sometimes. I may feel anxious before a big presentation and tend to bind my anxiety by being over-prepared. But that is better than being under-prepared, so in these cases, fear is my friend as it can help me be alert to being as ready as possible. Then I usually do some centering, some self-acceptance mantra, breathe and feel the excitement right before going out on that stage!
Photo: Courtesy of Westwind Brass Left to right: Dr. Eric Starr, Bryan Smith, Elizabeth Howard, Barry Toombs, John Wilds, Karl Soukup
Westwind Brass Announces Summer Brass Workshop
At SDSU School of Music & Dance
June 25-29, 2018
Free Concert June 30th at 1:00 pm
The Westwind Brass, San Diego’s premier professional brass ensemble, and an Ensemble-in-Residence at the San Diego State University (SDSU) School of Music and Dance, announces their exciting interactive 2018 Summer Brass Workshop at SDSU, June 25- 29, 2018, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.. This fun-filled week culminates in a free afternoon concert with the participant ensembles, on Saturday, June 30 at 1:00 p.m. at the School of Music and Dance.
The musicians of The Westwind Brass Ensemble are Elizabeth Howard, John Wilds and Karl Soukup (trumpets), Barry Toombs (horn), Eric Starr (trombone) and Bryan Smith (tuba).
“Each year, this week provides a cross-generational environment where we all have a chance to explore and develop skills in communication, collaboration, and creativity; and to engender a larger sense of community.”- Westwind Brass Executive Director: Barry Toombs (French Horn)
“The participants, young and old, receive an opportunity to work with some of the finest brass musicians in southern California. It is fun, informative, and relative to the music in their daily lives. What’s more, they have a chance to play in what will be, I believe, the greatest brass ensemble of their lives!”– Westwind Brass Director Educational and Outreach Programs: Bryan Smith
Photo Courtesy of Westwind Brass
Activities will include: Master Classes, Sectional Coaching, Ensemble Playing, Individual and Group Performances. Private lessons will be made available during the mornings for an additional fee.
In addition to the more traditional brass instrument training and ensemble experiences, this workshop will feature mini-seminars on such topics as sustainable practice routines; learning and performing solos; making use of technology in your music; and an interactive introduction to jazz and improvisation.
The Westwind Brass exists to broaden and enrich the musical legacy of local, national and international audiences through performance and educational services featuring brass instruments and music. Westwind Brass musicians perform in various configurations of featuring the unique timbre of brass instruments and performing the brass repertoire at a high artistic level. Westwind Brass is a 501(c) (3) Public Benefit Corporation. For more information, visit Guidestar.org.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Courtesy of Hausmann Chamber Music Program Summer Festival, 2017
The Hausmann Chamber Music Program announces their exciting interactive ‘Summer Festival’ presented by SDSU Community Music School, at San Diego State University School of Music and Dance (SDSU), June 18th through June 23rd, 2018, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. This event will be an intensive music experience for string, wind, brass and piano players ages 12 and older which will engage them in a dynamic combination of classes, performances and social opportunities. (Younger students will be accepted on a case-by-case basis). This year HCMP will also be open to pre-formed adult chamber music groups, with a prorated tuition rate option to participate for less than the full five days.
Faculty includes the Hausmann Quartet, Artists-in-Residence at San Diego State University (SDSU). Guest Faculty include fellow SDSU School of Music & Dance professors and artists drawn from around Southern California. Sessions on physical movement, improvisation and other related topics are included. The festival will again feature collaborations with San Diego Bass Fest (also on campus) with a joint faculty recital and shared activities.
Included in the program will be daily chamber music group coaching from SDSU’s Fisch/Axelrod Quartet-in-Residence, the Hausmann Quartet, as well as Chamber Music seminars and guided rehearsals by music professionals. There will also be opportunities for solo repertoire private lessons and group activities as well as Chamber orchestra reading session and master classes.
Price Information for Summer Workshop: $500.00 (includes $75 registration fee) with scholarships available. There is a 10% discount for early registration by April 15th. There’s also an “A la Carte” daily rate of $85 available for pre-formed adult groups only. Online registration at hausmannquartet.com. Note: *A non-refundable deposit of $75 will be due after registration. Note: Final registration due June 1st, 2018.
Location:
San Diego State University School of Music and Dance,
The mission of the Hausmann Chamber Music Program is to develop a community of engaged listeners and music lovers by sparking excitement, passion and the spirit of curiosity through hands-on, year-round chamber music training, including coaching, master classes with Hausmann Quartet and visiting artists, performance opportunities, special topic workshops and forums. HCMP welcomes each participant’s background and unique personality, and is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment.
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
Westwind Brass Ensemble. Left to right top: Elizabeth Howard, Karl Soukup, Barry Toombs, Dr. Eric Starr; Bottom, left to right: John Wilds, Bryan Smith
The Westwind Brass, San Diego’s premier professional brass ensemble, and Ensemble-in-Residence at the San Diego State University (SDSU) School of Music and Dance, announces their exciting interactive ‘Summer Brass Workshop’ at SDSU, July 10-14, 2017, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. followed by a free afternoon concert with participant ensembles, Saturday, July 15 at 1 p.m.
The Westwind Brass Ensemble, includes Elizabeth Howard, John Wilds and Karl Soukup (trumpets), Barry Toombs (horn), Eric Starr (trombone) and Bryan Smith (tuba).
The Westwind Brass Ensemble Left to right: Dr. Eric Starr, Bryan Smith, Elizabeth Howard, Barry Toombs, John Wilds, & Karl Soukup
“After more than 30 years, Westwind Brass Ensemble remains committed to serving the diverse communities that make up this great city of San Diego. We pledge to serve not only the San Diego that we know, but also the San Diego of the future.”
– Westwind Brass Executive Director: Barry Toombs (French Horn)
“This workshop is open to brass instrument players of all ages and ability levels. Participants will have the opportunity to play a lot, and explore a wide range of ensemble types and musical styles, such as brass quintets, trios, and solos, in both the classical and jazz styles. Each day will close with a large brass ensemble. An emphasis will be places on fun and harmony!”
– Westwind Brass Director of Educational and Outreach Programs: Bryan Smith
Activities will include: Master Classes, Sectional Coaching, Ensemble Playing, Individual and Group Performances. Private lessons will be made available during the mornings for an additional fee.
In addition to the more traditional brass instrument training and ensemble experiences, this workshop will feature these mini-seminars:
“How to Start Improvising”
“Who Has the Time? The Road to an Efficient, Sustainable Practice Routine”
“How to Learn and Perform a Solo”
“Using Technology to Make Your Music, and Get It Heard”
Plus: “A Tour of the SDSU School of Music and Dance Facilities”.
Price Information for Summer Workshop: Students/Military: $150.00; Adults: $175.00.
The Westwind Brass exists to broaden and enrich the musical legacy of local, national and international audiences through performance and educational services featuring brass instruments and music. Westwind Brass musicians perform in various configurations of featuring the unique timbre of brass instruments and performing the brass repertoire at a high artistic level. Westwind Brass is a 501(c) (3) Public Benefit Corporation. For more information, visit Guidestar.org.
###
Thanks for visiting! Please feel free to Share this:
