JoyCanvas Studios

Quantum Sovereignty: The Art of Being Fully Alive There’s a rhythm to life that isn’t always in sync with the world’s expectations. Some ideas unfold like lightning—instant, understood, seen. Others move like molasses, deep and layered, taking time to be recognized. I have come to trust in the slow unfolding. My mind doesn’t work in a straight line. It collapses ideas into form, weaving thought into story, emotion into art, and vision into sound. Some might call it chaotic—I call it quantum. I see the world’s wounds, and rather than simply lamenting them, I create in response. Not to fight. Not to rebel. But to illuminate. Because people don’t change from facts alone; they change through stories, through art, through the deep resonance of lived experience. Visionary feeling... making... living. And so, I follow where creativity leads: ?? Music & storytelling → To reframe perspectives and shift minds ?? Visual metaphor & crafts → To make abstract pain tangible ?? Business & engagement → To build something lasting with others ?? Satire & ballads → When intensity demands an outlet without destruction Sovereignty, to me, isn’t about standing apart—it’s about standing whole. It’s about knowing when to create and when to contain. When to share and when to hold back. When to trust and when to protect. It’s sacred balance. Gratitude & Whole-Brain Thinking For a long time, I wondered why my work moved at a different speed than the world around me. Society often rewards what is quick, clear, and easily categorized. But deep work—work that shifts perspectives and brings lasting insight—moves at its own tempo. This is where gratitude becomes a whole-brain experience—not just a feeling, but a way of processing the world. It allows me to embrace the slowness, the unfolding, the unseen connections that are forming beneath the surface. Sovereignty, in this sense, is not about independence or detachment. It is about integration—engaging with the world without losing oneself. It is about shifting perspectives, seeing the unseen, and trusting in the timing of things. Some might call this way of thinking quixotic, but I call it being an architect of the invisible— ?? Laying down unseen foundations ?? Shifting perspectives like wind carving stone ?? Leaving behind artifacts of meaning where none existed before I believe that joy—true, deep, unshakable joy—is found in alignment, acceptance, and flow. And so, I create. Whether through a fairytale, a song, a painting, or even a hand-painted sneaker, I plant seeds of the future breaking through the pavement of the present. This is the through line in everything I do. This is sovereignty. Because if there’s one thing I know, it’s this: sovereignty must be reclaimed, not given. But it is not a battle—it is a remembering. If this resonates, let’s explore it together. More to come. #Sovereignty #WholeBrainThinking #Creativity #FreeWill #SelfSovereignty #JoyfulAlignment #ArchitectOfTheInvisible

? Stepping into Storytelling—One Shoe at a Time ? Art has a way of carrying stories—through time, through history, and sometimes, quite literally, on our feet. ???? I’ve been experimenting with comic book-style backgrounds to bring a bold, dynamic energy to my hand-painted sneaker designs. Each pair is a canvas, telling a story that connects art, history, and personal expression. But the next project? It's raising the bar. Big time. ?? I'm gearing up to create a custom pair for President Santa Ono, and one panel will feature none other than John F. Kennedy at the Michigan Union in 1960. His words remind us that education is more than personal success—it’s about a greater purpose. It’s both an honor and a challenge to bring this moment to life. And I won’t lie—I’m nervous. The more I push my craft, the more I realize how much there is to learn. Finding the right lettering, nailing the historical accuracy, ensuring every brushstroke matters… it’s humbling. But that’s the beauty of it—growth happens in the in-between moments. I’m testing stencils, refining designs, and—just like in comics—there are more surprises to come. Stay tuned! ?? Next week, I’ll be in LA at my younger daughter’s new apartment, balancing projects—working on my play(s), finishing Arzu, and dipping my new brain toes into Wilhelmina. There’s something about being in a different space that helps unlock creativity, and I’m excited to see where it leads. ?? Question for you: What’s a project that pushed you outside your comfort zone but helped you grow? I’d love to hear your stories! #WearableArt #HandPaintedSneakers #StorytellingThroughArt #JFK #PresidentOno #CustomShoes #CreativityInMotion #WritingLife #Playwriting #Wilhelmina #ArzusLongJourneyHome #LAInspires

? The Next Chapter in Arzu’s Journey—And Mine ? Stories grow. They shift, they breathe, they surprise you. As I continue shaping Arzu’s Long Journey Home, I find myself caught between the wonder of the unknown and the thrill of discovery—much like Arzu herself. London is now alive in ways I never expected. The winds whisper, the city hums, and a lost doll tumbles into Shakespearean chaos. Meanwhile, something stirs—a storm, a shadow, a brother’s call. ?? What Changed in This Revision? ?? A heightened sense of movement—The wind is no longer just a guide but a character wrestling with its own identity. ?? Tension woven into whimsy—A playful night at the theatre unravels into something more, as unseen forces begin to pull the strings. ?? A world alive with possibility—From Piccadilly Circus to Notting Hill, every setting pulses with its own magic, each location another puzzle piece leading Arzu forward. ?? A Peek at the Story’s Evolution: Before: Arzu arrived in London, swept up in the city’s glow. She wandered, she marveled, she searched. After? Sneak peek provided... it's alive! ?? Fellow writers, do you ever find that a small change—just one gust of inspiration—can shift the entire arc of your story? I’d love to hear how your stories have surprised you! ??? If you’d like to read Arzu’s latest adventure in London, I’ve attached the next two chapters. #WritingCommunity #Storytelling #RevisionMagic #TheJoyOfWriting #ChildrensBooks #London #Creativity

?? “Irish at Heart (Even if Turkish Born)” ?? Happy St. Paddy’s Day! I may have been born in Turkey, but I swear my soul has an Irish accent. ?? Maybe it’s because I married an Irishman, or maybe it’s because of the fishing, the storytelling, and the love of a good laugh. My very Irish mother-in-law(God rest her soul!) loved a pint at the pub, and we loved hanging out with her and granddad for a burger and a beer. The best laughs, the best times. ?? And speaking of great pubs, I once painted Gravediggers Pub in Dublin and personally brought the original to the bartender in my painting. (I think his name was Adrian! Or maybe Aidan? ?? ??) I don’t drink anymore—had a pre-diabetes scare and now keep my carbs (30-45g/day and only good ones! Lots and lots of protein and other gut friendly stuff) low and my fasting hours long (I ?? gluconeogenesis! ??). Lost a ton of weight, too, as a result! But I still cherish my time fishing on the Irish coast, where I once helped catch a shark and a massive bass at 3 AM. ?? And speaking of Irish traditions, I’ve always been drawn to Celtic art and symbols. The swirls, the knots, the endless flow of energy—just like the sea, just like time, just like the stories we tell. ??? So today, even without a pint, I’m raising a virtual glass to family, friends, whether near or forever in my heart—where they’re always closest, old traditions, good memories, and the stories we carry with us. ?? Sláinte! ?? “What are your favorite Irish traditions or memories?” ?? #StPatricksDay ?? #IrishAtHeart ?? #CelticHeritage ?? #FishingLife ? #StorytellingMatters Hmmm… I have some Barry’s Tea, caff and decaf, left from my last visit. Will go brew some and pretend it's Guinness! ????

? The Magic of Revision: A Story’s Journey Across Continents ? The revision process is a journey—one of discovery, refinement, and surprising transformation. After deep revisions, thoughtful critique, and a journey across Istanbul, New York, and Paris, I’ve finally reached a version of the first two chapters of Arzu’s Long Journey Home that feels… just right. But Arzu’s adventure is far from over. She still has more places to travel, more hearts to touch, and more wonders to see before she finds her way back to Musi. ??? This story—about a lost doll, a little girl, and the invisible thread that keeps them connected—has evolved in ways I never expected. One key insight from my latest critique? Strengthening the connection between Musi and Arzu, even across distance. So I asked myself: ?? What if Musi could still feel Arzu, even after she was gone? ?? What if Arzu, drifting through the world, still longed for home? ?? Could a whisper in the wind, a feather floating down, or a distant echo of laughter bridge that space between them? Now, the story carries more breath between its lines—a subtle but powerful reminder that love, like the wind, travels even across oceans. ??? ?? A Small Before & After Change: ?? Before: Through the glass, the silver bird soared, Higher, farther, her heart implored. Too late, too far—the world moved fast, Her dearest friend… now in the past. ?? After: A feather drifted down, slow and weightless, landing softly at her feet. Musi bent down, brushing her fingers over its delicate edge. A warmth bloomed in her chest, small but steady. She clutched it tight. Maybe Arzu was still out there. Maybe she would find her way home. The wind stirred once, then slipped away—a promise made for another day. Small changes—big impact. ? ?? Another big shift? I transitioned from rhyme to rhythmic prose, keeping young readers in mind. The heart of the story remains, but now the language flows naturally, letting emotions breathe. ?? And Paris? Oh, Paris came alive in the latest revision, with the help of Le Quack, Ze Artiste Extraordinaire! ???? Because even lost things deserve a touch of whimsy, don’t they? Like the puzzles I love, there’s a moment when the right piece finally snaps into place—that satisfying click. Getting to that place in my writing—where I can feel the rhythm fall into place, where the words land just right—is the same kind of joy. And yes. I, the driver of this story car, wrote that. All me. I checked the tires, I looked in the rear-view mirror, and I even checked my blind spots—carefully switching lanes under the cloak of night. ?? Fellow writers, artists, and creatives—how do you know when a piece is finally ready? Do you ever have those ‘aha!’ moments deep in revision? Would love to hear your thoughts! #WritingCommunity #Storytelling #ChildrensBooks #Creativity #RevisionMagic #TheJoyOfWriting

AI, Driverless Cars & Whole-Brained Thinking: Who’s in the Driver’s Seat? The future is coming fast, and it’s bringing AI along for the ride. But are we the drivers, or is AI taking the wheel? At a recent University of Michigan alumni event in Baltimore, I had the privilege of speaking with President Santa Ono about Michigan’s 2034 vision for AI research. As someone with a computer science background with an M.B.A. from this wonderful establishment, who also thrives in the world of art and storytelling, I left with a lot to think about. ?? The Horse & Buggy → Model T → Ferrari Metaphor AI reminds me of the shift from horse and buggy to automobiles. Some of us are still adjusting to this new ride, while others are already building Ferraris—machines of speed, intelligence, and power. But not all humans are in the same vehicle. Some of us process information differently—perhaps with expressive language challenges but deep receptive genius. (My daughter, for one, is the exact complement/opposite of me, and in the world of language-based learning and tests, yikes, not easy. And yet, she is a brilliant actor who can memorize hundreds of pages of script, off-book in a jiffy). If AI is developed with heart and intention, it can bridge these gaps, unlocking incredible potential. ?? The Driverless Car & Human Agency As a Michigan-trained driver, I learned how to navigate snowstorms, long commutes, and defensive driving. One rule? Assume the other driver doesn’t know what they’re doing. Trust yourself. Be ready to take control. This is exactly how I approach AI. ?? I am always in the driver’s seat. ?? AI is my collaborator, not my replacement. ?? It guides, suggests, and supports—but at the end of the day, the final result is all me. ?? Whole-Brained Thinking: AI, Art & Logic Life is a puzzle—and I love puzzles. They help my neurons fire, engaging intuition, creativity, and logic all at once. I believe AI, when developed ethically, has the potential to be a bridge, not a takeover. It can amplify human ingenuity rather than replace it. We are not passengers—we are co-creators of the future. ?? ?? Would you trust a driverless car yet? If not, what would make you feel ready? ?? How do you see AI fitting into your creative process? P.S. There’s a chance President Santa Ono might be getting a pair of hand-painted Michigan sneakers from me soon… Stay tuned! ?? ?? ???? #AI #Creativity #HumanAgency #UniversityofMichigan #GoBlue #Innovation ?? #ProudWolverine FTW! ?????? Image: Like this puzzle, life—and AI—is about putting the pieces together. The challenge? Making sure we’re the ones deciding where each piece belongs. What a rush when a piece fits, and you hear that snap! One piece at a time. Pure goodness.

?? The Power of Intention in Motion ?? A few years ago, my son played Ocean by John Butler at his high school talent show. If you’ve ever heard it, you know—it’s not just a song. It’s an experience. A story told through strings. ?? ?? Listen to Ocean by John Butler: https://lnkd.in/eW9ZXFFq Since then, he’s honed his gift, blending precision with feeling, much like U2’s Edge. He’s building his confidence, his voice, and his own path, trusting his music is meant to be heard. That’s the power of intention in action—channeling emotion into something that moves through you and into the world. Just like affirmations, just like art, just like love. Just like JOY. I share these affirmations like music flowing outward, of energy shaping what we create, of the unseen forces that guide us when we trust the process, trust the flow. ?? For My Children May they walk paths filled with financial security, personal growth, and spiritual fulfillment. May they find joy in each step they take, cultivating harmony in their hearts and lives. Let compassion guide their actions, and gratitude be the foundation of their successes. May they experience a life rich with purpose, surrounded by love and opportunities that nourish their souls. ?? For My Husband & Me May we enjoy vibrant health and adventures near and far. May this next season be filled with serendipity, curiosity and play, with time to savor the fruits of our hard work and the simple pleasures of life. ?? For My Family May our family bonds be rooted in love, trust, and mutual respect. May we create joyful memories together—whether through travels, gatherings, or shared moments of connection. May this love extend to our broader family, creating a tapestry of support, laughter, and togetherness. ?? For My Friends (Yes, You!) All of the above for your inner circle! May you be surrounded by inspiration, clarity, and boundless creativity. May you trust your voice, knowing that your light brightens the world in ways you may not always see. May joy find you easily, and may success follow in its own perfect rhythm. ?? For Myself May my creative journey flourish, with my writing published and my art reaching the world, touching hearts and minds. May my family see and celebrate this part of me, understanding that while I will always be ‘Mom,’ I am also an artist and storyteller. May I derive deep joy and fulfillment from sharing my creativity, feeling valued and understood in all the roles I cherish. ? A Thought to Carry With You: Energy flows where attention goes. When we align our hopes with gratitude, love, and joy, we create space for beautiful things to unfold. ?? Have you ever felt that kind of connection—when something beyond words spoke to you and you just knew? Let’s send those moments into the world like music, like waves, like butterfly wings. ??? #Affirmations #Intentions #Gratitude #SuccessMindset #Creativity #FamilyFirst #WellBeing #Mindfulness

My Reverse Lullaby – A Musical Approach to Gentle Mornings ? Why a Reverse Lullaby? Mornings can be jarring. It’s Daylight Savings today in the USA, and it’s dark again this morn'! Soon, the sun will get stronger and stronger... For now and specifically tomorrow, it’s Monday… Alarm clocks, to-do lists, and overstimulation can trigger stress before we even get out of bed. That’s why I composed The Waking Song—a gentle, heart-centered 432 Hz melody to ease the mind from sleep to wakefulness without stress. Instead of jolting the body into alertness, this song rises like dawn—gently guiding the mind awake. Here are the lyrics: WAKING SONG (432 Hz Reverse Lullaby) (Soft, slow, soothing—meant to rise like dawn.) ?? Breathe, love, the stars, though never gone, are fading... ?? Night has whispered all it knows... ?? Feel the hush of morning waiting... ?? Feel the light beneath your toes... (A pause, a gentle shift—like stretching after sleep.) ?? The waves have sighed a thousand dreams, ?? The sky has turned from gold to blue... ?? Now rise, love, the world is singing... ?? Rise, love, the day wants you. ?? Hold me close, the light is calling... ?? Hold me close, it’s all in you... (Instrumental moment—like a slow tide coming in… then the song loops, soft but awake.) ?? One eye hazel, one eye blue, ?? A thousand years, the light shines through... ?? Golden dawn in your reflection, ?? A sky of stars still waking too... ?? Hold me close, the world remembers... ?? Hold me close, and I’ll hold you... I’m still blending the right chords and instruments—voice for melody, piano for harmony, and strings for depth. I can’t wait to share it! ?? Do you have a favorite morning ritual to ease into the day? ?? What songs or sounds help you wake up feeling calm and centered? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear! ??? #SoundHealing #432Hz #MusicTherapy #Mindfulness #HealingFrequencies #WellBeing #CognitiveHealth #Neuroscience #Gratitude #SuccessMindset #Creativity ?? Images: Beethoven (he wrote my favorite classic, "Ode to Joy"!) watching from the mist, nodding in approval… or maybe blushing? ?? He's sayin': "Finally! Someone understands my genius!" Or perhaps… "I knew she was ahead of her time, but this… this is divine!" ?? ?? ??

?? The Healing Power of Sound: How Singing and Frequencies Can Reduce Cognitive Stress Ever noticed how a song can shift your mood? How humming a lullaby to a child (or yourself) brings instant calm? Science confirms what ancient cultures have known—sound is medicine. Studies show specific frequencies—like 432 Hz and 528 Hz—can: ? Lower stress ? Regulate emotions ? Synchronize brainwaves into relaxation 432 Hz: The “Natural Frequency” Often called the healing frequency, 432 Hz has been shown to lower anxiety, align with the Schumann Resonance (Earth’s frequency), and promote peace. Nurses listening to 432 Hz music on work breaks experienced lower stress and blood pressure than those hearing standard music. 528 Hz: The “Love Frequency” Nicknamed the “miracle tone,” 528 Hz is linked to oxytocin release—the hormone of love, bonding, and well-being. Just five minutes of 528 Hz music reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and increases compassion. ?? A 2018 study found that certain sound frequencies, including 432 Hz and 528 Hz, can reduce stress markers like cortisol.If you're interested in the research, let me know in the comments—I’d be happy to share some links! ?? The Joy Frequency While some frequencies focus on healing and relaxation, others are associated with elevated joy, connection, and bliss. ?? 639 Hz – The “Connection Frequency” ? Associated with relationships, communication, and emotional bonding ? Said to enhance positive energy and deepen human connection ?? 852 Hz – The “Awakening Frequency” ? Thought to stimulate intuition and clarity ? Helps release negative emotions and align with inner peace & joy ?? 963 Hz – The “Pure Bliss Frequency” ? Sometimes called the “frequency of divine consciousness” ? Linked to elevated joy, enlightenment, and harmon While there’s no single “Joy Frequency,” a combination of 528 Hz, 639 Hz, and 963 Hz is often used to enhance joy, positivity, and emotional well-being. Why Singing & Sound Matter for Stress Relief Singing itself is a powerful stress regulator. When we sing, hum, or chant: ?? We activate the vagus nerve, calming the nervous system. ?? Breathing deepens, lowering heart rate. ?? The brain syncs to rhythm, shifting into alpha waves—like meditation. Research on brainwave entrainment found that lullabies, slow harmonics, and 60 bpm rhythms help the brain naturally enter a calmer state. This is why lullabies are universally soothing—even across cultures. Music isn’t just about sound—it’s a powerful tool for shaping our emotions, mindset, and energy. ? What if we could intentionally tune into joy every single day? Have you ever used music or sound to shift your mindset? What’s a song or frequency that brings you joy? Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to hear! #SoundHealing #432Hz #528Hz #MusicTherapy #Mindfulness #HealingFrequencies #WellBeing #CognitiveHealth #Neuroscience #JoyFrequency #Gratitude #SuccessMindset #Creativity.

? The Smile Stick Experiment: A Little Magic, A Lot of Science ? I recently came across research showing that smiling can influence mood, even when it feels forced. Our facial muscles create a feedback loop—when we engage our "smile muscles," our brain gets a signal of joy, subtly lifting our spirits. But what happens when sorrow or stress weighs down that smile? ?? I discovered a trick: holding a small, non-toxic rubber stick in your mouth can naturally engage those muscles, gently nudging your brain toward a brighter state. However, some options online aren’t safe for this purpose. ?? So I found something better: a magic wand! A light, smooth, fun alternative, these wands serve as a visual and tactile reminder of the power of joy. But is this just wishful thinking? ?? Science Says This Works! Facial Feedback Hypothesis: Research shows that our facial expressions don’t just reflect emotions—they help create them. Engaging the muscles used for smiling can actually make us feel happier. Strack, Martin, & Stepper (1988): In a study where participants held a pen between their teeth (mimicking a smile), they rated cartoons as funnier than those who didn’t. Their brains interpreted the muscle movement as genuine happiness. Marmolejo-Ramos et al. (2020): More recent studies confirm that even a fake smile can activate positive emotional signals in the brain—tricking us into feeling better. 2019 Meta-Analysis: A review of 138 studies found that facial feedback has a real, if subtle, effect on mood. So, could a simple Smile Stick help shift your mood? Oh, it sure does! I've used this method for over a decade! Let me show vs. tell with these images of my earlier experiments below. Would you try it? #JoyCanvasStudios #TheSmileStick #NeuroscienceOfJoy #MagicAndMindset ?? Bonus: The Science of Happy Music! Did you know that music also plays a huge role in boosting happiness? Studies suggest that certain songs are scientifically designed to make us feel good! ??? ?? The Beach Boys' Good Vibrations → Watch Here https://lnkd.in/e7YjAKy9 ?? James Brown’s I Got You (I Feel Good) → Watch Here https://lnkd.in/eRStiQhU These songs have specific beats, chord progressions, and structures that uplift mood—just like how engaging our smile muscles sends positive signals to the brain! ?? Could combining the right music + the Smile Stick create a double happiness boost? I might have to test that next! ??