Portraits Capture the Spirit Within

PHOTO BY JAMIE CHASE FIRESTONE Robbi Firestone’s portraits capture the spirit within By Victoria Becker For Tacoma Weekly Published on: October 16, 2008 Two things are true about Robbi Firestone. One is that most people who meet her for the first time do not forget her. The second is that her portraits have the same effect, making her one of our best known and most sought after artists in Tacoma and the Pacific Northwest today. When Firestone sits across from you she takes you in with large green eyes as if preparing to paint a portrait of this moment. However, it is Firestone who commands attention whether she is in a “wife-beater” T-shirt, pinning her hair up, or in formal attire playing celebrity at the esteemed Poncho Gala, auctioning a portrait as the featured artist in Seattle. Several years ago she was living in Los Angeles, managing an entertainment company and starring in commercials. At that time she had an offer she couldn’t refuse to come to the Pacific Northwest. Knowing only one person here she fearlessly left her home and started brand new digs in Tacoma. It’s not the first time Firestone did what most would call a scary proposition. When she was afraid of the water she decided to take diving lessons in shark-infested waters in Turks and Caicos. When a pickpocket stole her friend’s wallet, she chased him down New York City streets, threw him against a wall and impersonated a cop until the real ones got there. She skydives, adventure travels and takes big life leaps when fear rears its ugly head. Firestone is also a businesswoman to be reckoned with. “Most artists hang out only with other artists,” she explains. “I hang out with artists and successful business people to learn from them. I know my art viscerally.” Her business plan includes tithing 5 percent to a charity of her client’s choice and 5 percent to one of her choice. When asked why she charges so much, she didn’t bat an eye. “I love that question. Today I charge $10,000 per person in a portrait. It is inexpensive considering my friend in Geneva just paid $2,000,000 to have his wife’s portrait done by Julian Schnabel. “My portraits include a Spirit Capture – a synopsis of how my client contributes to the world. It is a calligraphic stream of consciousness, scripted into the composition.” Each portrait is designed for the client’s home down to the beautiful paper backing. The painting is wrapped and presented like a gift. In order to prepare for the client sitting, Firestone spends time meditating the day before. Sometimes she goes to a spa, does yoga or visits a sacred place. The whole time painting is spent chatting with her subject. “During our time my client feels fully accepted, honored and cherished.” Firestone was educated at New York’s prestigious Parson’s School of Design and Fashion Institute of Technology. She paints Fortune 500 CEOs, politicians and celebrities. She remembers being a teenager in a small, roach-ridden apartment in New York City, flirting with poverty, vowing never to return to such conditions. Playing the celebrity at the Poncho Gala in Seattle this summer and matched with Dale Chihuly, it doesn’t look like Firestone will be revisiting those days any time soon. Her work will appear at the esteemed Agape International Galleries in Los Angeles Nov. 8-Jan. 26, 2009. Check her out at www.RobbiFirestone.com.

Conscious Beauty

One thing I know for sure is that a clan of stellar women are required for my good living. I simply cannot stay sane without a group of intelligent, conscious, loving, honest, authentic and direct women in my life. Are you spending enough time with your women? They support us in ways man simply cannot, as magnificent as Man is.... Here is a collective of the most beautiful women in the Emerald City, celebrating the Queen of Beautiful women, Sharon Ballentine. She flew to LA for my art opening last week, so I popped up to Seattle for her birthday. Imagine these gorgeous girls with bottomless champagne and the Presidential Suite...luckily, you get the early view of our crazy night! Wish Sharon Birthday Blessings in your heart...she is a gift to the planet, and most certainly to my life. This is for you, Ladies.

What fear stops you?

I fell off my bicycle when I was eleven. With mirror glass driven into my bone, qaurtz stone jagged, piercing, imbedded into flesh, The slightest breeze screamed through my skin. I dug shards of stone and glass out of my layers of my body with a steak knife heated on the stove. Epidermus, ligament, cartilidge, bone. It took an hour. Much pain. Scars stay all along my body. Remember that feeling? To fall very Hard and skin your knee… badly, like when you’re a kid. Everything Is Raw. I felt my body Fully, completely alive, present and physical… All of its Beingness. It was a profound accident, and taught me about my body and mind in many ways. My torn knee with raked skin brought all attention to the stinging wound. Then came the fears and lack of conciousness: the ‘I don’t want to ride my bike again’ Left me with a scar difficult to release--physically, and emotionally. Do I want to ever ride my bike again? The stakes became high. It was a very hard fall. I ride bikes, motorcycles, I jump from planes, swim with sharks and dive into Consciousness intensives to prevent succombing to my fears. That is why I adventure, since you asked. What are you afraid of?

Holiday Love Letters

One very cold Missouri Christmas, my parents had little money for presents. My beloved step mother spent Christmas eve distraught. When I went to bed she was crying; she felt she couldn't 'give us enough'. Christmas morning I awoke, trying to soften the disappointment I knew would come. I understood this was out of my parents control. When I finally creeped into the living room, I found a simple white envelop hanging like an ornament on the fractured, artificial tree. My mom had written each of us a letter. It told the many ways my she loved us individually. Mine described my compassion, creativity, empathy and intelligence. She loved that I cry for the little unicorn and Bambi, that I bring flowers to the neighbors, and adopt every stray dog in sight. She told me all the reasons why she was proud that when I was 6 years old, she chose me as her daughter and married my awesome dad. Thirty years ago, the Spirit Capture letter was born. My mom inspired so much of who I am now. I now follow her lead and write a letter to my client. I write of the many ways I most love and respect them, and how they are gifts to the planet. If times feel constricted now with the economic challenges we face, consider your own Spirit Capture writing to each of your family members. Today that letter is one of the best gifts I've ever recieved. And writing them is my very favorite gift to give. Savor the holidays as they approach. I've made a renewed commitment to honor my family, inspired by my dear friend Ramin whose family is the single most important facet of his life. I follow his lead...I support you in returning to the true meaning of the holidays...whatever that means to you. Love & Namaste... (the Divine in me beholds the Divine in you). Robbi

VOTE! here's how...

Election 2008 Voting Information Today, November 4th, is Election Day! Remember to vote—not just for Barack Obama, but for Congressional, state, and local candidates as well. Where and when do I vote? Find your polling place, voting times, and other important information by checking out these sites and the hotline below. These resources are good, but not perfect. To be doubly sure, you can also contact your local elections office. Obama's VoteForChange site: voteforchange.com League of Women Voters' site: vote411.org/pollfinder.php Obama's voter hotline: 877-US4-OBAMA (877-874-6226) What should I do before I go? After you've entered your address on either Vote For Change or Vote411, read the voting instructions and special rules for your state. Voting ID laws vary from state to state, but if you have ID, bring it. Check out all the voting myths and misinformation to look out for: http://truth.voteforchange.com/ What if something goes wrong? Not on the voter list? Make sure you're at the right polling place, then demand a provisional ballot. If you're voting on an electronic machine with a paper record, verify that the record is accurate. Need legal help? Call 1-866-OUR-VOTE. If you encounter a problem, try to videotape the situation and submit it to VideoTheVote.org Want to do more? Text all of your friends: "Vote Obama today! Pass it on!" Volunteer at your local Obama office. Find an office here or here. Now, everybody go vote!!!

Agape Show comes together...in my living room!!!!

HI Everyone! what a great day! My living room is filled with all my pieces prepping for the Agape show! Also, a letter came today from Morgan James Publishing telling me they have accepted my proposal! AND I got a call from Hollywood...MORE DEtails to come (when I know what I can say because I signed a non-disclosure agreement with the production company!!!!) in this video you get to meet my project manager, Lauren. She's amazing. I met her becuase I wanted to paint her...shes a gorgeous person,,, an artist and business woman like me! I am fortunate to have her supporting my biz.... See you soon (at Agape, Nov. 8, 6-9....)

Dia de los Muertos!

Hi Folks! I'm at the coolest gallery in the Pacific Northwest: Tacoma's own Two Vaults Gallery owned and operated by Paula Tutmarc. She is by far the hippest chic in the little city, anchoring the art community with her keen eye and brilliant sensibilities and fun, open hearted vibe. She creates the most wonderful expereinces for both patron and artist, eliminating the snobbery of the art establishment. I dig on her. Paula is the woman to know if you wanna know. Check out Two Vaults Gallery for Great Buys on GREAT ART! (no joke. Great art!)

Santa Monica Beach...ummmm, I'm home!

Hellooooo my friends...here is where I'm happiest...my home beach in Santa Monica where I overcome my fear of sharks (thank you my beloved surfer boyfriend, always), met the dearest people of my life, learned of Burning Man on all levels and comforted myself in times of great challenge. This day I enjoyed a 4 mile walk in the sand. ummmmmmm,,,,,, wanna go to the beach with me?

Robbi Firestone as Correspondent for Seen TV, How fun!!!

I just got the video from the Luly Yang Couture show, 20/20! After a night of playing Correspondent for Seen TV, I had a blast! Check it out! http://www.teamphotogenic.com/seen/2008-luly-yang-couture-runway-show-8947.html

Agape Gallery Opening

So Excited! Dr. Michael Beckwith (of the bestselling book and movie "the Secret") has put my show up on their website! I just love being affiliated with this spiritual center! It is my home,,, where I feel most fed. Please come and meet my friends and clients from across the country at my Gallery opening on November 8, 2008 at Agape International Spiritual Center! My community all under one roof, can you imagine? Love, Robbi

Seen TV at Luly Yang Couture 20/20 Show

I had such fun last night at the Luly Yang Couture 20/20 Show last night! As a Correspondent for Seen TV, enjoyed the playtime backstage. Its Barbie dressup for big girls!

Mark Victor Hansen and Robbi Firestone

Isn't Mark Victor Hansen hunky? Kinda reminds me of Batman without the cape. He creating doing such great things on the planet...a true Do-Gooder. Those are definately the most amazing men....

Luly Yang Couture Fitting with Robbi Firestone

Senior Design Consultant Lina Zeineddine helps me choose 'what to wear!' for Luly Yang's 20/20 Runway Show taking place tomorrow night in Seattle at Jonas Jensens' Studios...we had such fun!

Revolutionary Publisher David Hancock

Check out my first video blog with David Hancock at Author101University.com! Blessings, Robbi

What is your Totem?

It's the little things. when I was a little girl, I swam in rivers and played Barbies in creeks. I broke my Easter duck Mitsy's leg trying to help it, and my dad splinted it for $200 at the vet (cursing the whole while under his breath, but not letting me know until 20 years later). Life lessons were everywhere in nature. We had this 70s green electric company reader box outside our house. It hummed with significance, insinuating that the most horrifying power was hidden beneath a simple shell metal, breachable (I'm sure) by the most subtle childhood act... not running a tree wheeler into it, mind you, but like, if I trip I'll hit it, burst through and be electricuted/fried like a fly in the summer window ledge. Crispy. Period. But Oh!, Oh the mystery of the ants which lived beneath this humming vortex of power. They, fearless and steadfast in nature, disappeared in orderly streams day and night beneath the electric mass above their home. How in the heck could they withstand that sound? This is where my fascination with ants began. For years I sat beside their stream--infinite numbers of teeny black scouts and workers marching their way to and fro, touching antenna in the most delicate kiss of information exchange. Did they say 'I love you' like I would? Or were they communicating complex coordinates, latitude longitude depth wideth height properties of challenges and food sources? I challenged them daily...built damns in their way, piled little sticks and twigs to throw them off their path. Not to harm, but to watch their problem solving capabilites...and steadfast and true was their journey always. They never lost their way. They always led each other around the obstacle with that little kiss. They communicated constantly, urging each other toward the common vision for their colony. They suppported Oneness of Self in every move and breath and journey. They are my heros. Ant as Totem. The tiny black ones which so many people try to kill. They are beautiful teachers. Last night at my favorite store (Dragonfly, Tacoma) of a favorite friend, I came across a little bracelet with a black ant inside. My totem has reintroduced itself to my world after given it nary a thought for years. I wonder, "waht will you teach me now?" We shall see how Ant as Totem shall guide me onward through this electric hum vortex that is my life protected by the slightest shells....

Rickie Byars Beckwith, Spiritual Celebrity Songstress

Rickie Byars Beckwith is a force to be reckoned wtih. Woman lover sage wild child magician creative, she is unstoppable...celebrity of the most authentic loving and talented kind. I hung out with Rickie and her girls, welcomed to her Bawdy Babe tribe. Rickie inspires me to love being a wild woman. Thank god!!! Rickie's hubby, Dr. Michael Beckwith is hosting my upcoming gallery show at Agape. Michael is the visionary from the best selling book 'the Secret'. Check out www.agapelive.com to connect with my home community in Los Angeles...and wish me luck on my November 8th opening at Agape!!!!

Backstage with Fergie

Backstage with Fergie last night...

Emerging the 'Right' from Within...

Packed with profound learning, this week I met remarkable people at (dig this), "The Worlds Greatest Marketing Seminar!" At this business seminar, I met one of the most inspiring, compassionate women I've known met in a while...an angel. Deborah is registered RN working in a Florida hospital. She created her own 'Angel Cards' and gifts them to patients experiencing difficulty. Deborah has written an inspiring 'promise' reminding those in pain of her 'watchers in the night'. This little business sized card speaks of a promise to protect, always care, and to keep the patient safe and watched over. Originally cautious about giving these inspirational words to patients because of religious overtones, Deborah, after 30 years of healing people realized that often giving hope and kindness can be more healing than a nurses care. Here’s to you, Deborah. You are my heroine of the day. I am grateful that you remind me to stand in my Truth, knowing that what is ‘Right’ is always what emerges from my/one’s authentic, compassionate Self. It brings forth the question; how am I 'ministering' Love today, whatever I define it as (God, Spirit, Love Intelligence, Angels, Allah, Jesus)? How can I go that extra step in my work today to be a loving presence? How can I be more like RN Deborah? I ask you to reflect on the same.

Greater Yet to Be

Who have you encountered who is so confident, kind, compassionate and intelligent that by simply standing in their presence, you viscerally KNOW, in your bones, that you can accomplish your deepest desires NOW? I had some play time with a crew of these folks yesterday…revolutionary publisher and creative David L. Hancock, the world's leading expert on radio publicity Alex Carroll, and lionhearted publicity Genius, Rick Frishman, the One and Only. These men are Right Power…spiritual volcanoes erupting intelligence, wisdom, joy and promise, supporting us to achieve our deepest desires. Savvy, generous, cool, joyfully motivational, tactically intelligent … I wanted to paint Spirit Capture oil portraits for all of them because of their amazing beauty. Their eyes shine with full potential and dedication. If you are fortunate to meet any of them, you are blessed. I’ve decided to spend a little time Oct 1-2 at their www.author101university.com with Mark Victor Hansen. Come to Atlanta and join me! So, who in your life has brought this level of joy, confidence and radiance to your own heart? Who has lifted you into your next level, broadened your boundaries, joked you over your self constructed negative beliefs, or inspired you by their actions into your ‘greater yet to be’? Ask your Self this, and feel into the answer. See into the moment it occurred; allow it to live in every cell of your body, and carry it into your day as a sacred secret. You are a Divine Manifestation of the only thing that is. As am I. You are power, light and love. You are capable, steadfast, filled with integrity and Intelligence. Know it. I know it for you. I hold you to your highest, as these wonderful new friends hold me to mine. Blessings and Namaste, Robbi

Varieties

We are the varieties of All that Love is.

infinite possibility can hurt

sometimes the vastness of infinite possibility hurts my heart. most of the time it's amazing to feel the wonder and excitement of the Great Mystery, but in this very moment, infinite possibility presents a rare moment of emptiness ....the question, "why not now? I do believe in "its" existence, and inevitable marrying of my "it" to me...but I hurt as the sweet, tired me, here on a Saturday night, listens alone to a beautiful singer call out. She paints her pictures with music...her descriptions dance in my head as real as visions of my own erupting on canvas. her voice, my quietude, as a spirit waltz. I am surrounded by beloved friends, the successes, the joys, the abundance, the travels and recognition, excitement and loves. yet here I sit, looking into the black void of a forested night, wondering...waiting for the most treasured piece of infinite possibility to take form and live...to be alive in my personal now by holding my hand and feeling the, "I love you forever. You are golden, you are mine." and so I am home, I hold my brushes in my hand, and begin my own silent waltz with oil paint oil portrait smoothing its textures from my heart to color form. cherished eyes, lips, a brightness and much dark tonight. Contrast. The painted declaration that infinite possibility can hurt....

Wild Bill and Dyann

It is a sheer joy to know people as generous and loving as this exquisite couple. I am grateful that they entrusted me to paint their oil portraits. Now dear friends of mine, their philantropic and fun loving nature inspires me, keeping me evermore committed to my own charitable giving.

Off the easel...

Hi Everyone! I'm so excited as I've completed another new oil portrait, and would love your thoughts! Blessings, Robbi

Another Dream Fulfilled

This summer has been a time of completion in my life. A bit embarrassed, I've decided to 'out' myself. While business blossomed exponetially, I completed one last year of college, earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts at University of Washington. I feel a profound mixture of feelings around this late in life accomplishment: mainly vulnerabilty, deep fulfillment...and relief! This is my handsome father and his lovely wife. The best gift I've recieved in many years was his decision to participate in achieving yet another long awaited dream- accepting my diploma! (The other best gift? He gave me braces. You have no idea how ugly a child I was with buck teeth...to this day I thank my dad for sacrificing so much to make that happen....and now for attending my graduation. Thanks Dad!) 2008 is my year of completion. What have you done to create a better life for yourself this year? I intend to attend seminars (Harv Eker and Tony Robbins), travel (villa in Tuscany anyone?), and fully focus on my portraits. I've just returned from Italy and Switzerland... With homework gone (ugh! thank goodness!) I've commited to writing more about my travels, works and activities. Visit my blog and add your thoughts as we explore our co-creative, expansive lives together.

Robbi Firestone Custom Portrait, Featured Art Experience at PONCHO

Dear Friends, I would so appreciate your support in my latest venture. I hope to see you at the upcoming PONCHO Gala on April 12, 2008! Please forward this message to friends or colleagues you feel may be interested in this event or information. Blessings and Namaste, Robbi Firestone ____________________________________ For Immediate Release Contact Inforation: Jamie Chase jamiejchase@mac.com (253) 732-4369 Tacoma Portrait Artist Robbi Firestone Featured at PONCHO 46th Annual Red Carpet Gala Tacoma - (April 1, 2008) Would you like a coveted, commissioned Robbi Firestone Spirit Capture oil portrait of a loved one? How about a trip to the Valencia Formula One race as part of the Renault team? A Breakfast at Tiffany's in New York? Four tickets to the Grammies AND the Celebration Party? For any of these, there is only one place you need to be, the 46th Annual PONCHO Gala on Saturday, April 12th at the Westin Hotel at 5PM. During this glamorous, black tie affair, dozens of luxury lifestyle items and exclusive experiences will be auctioned to support the arts in communities throughout our state. No stranger to the black tie red carpet, now Tacoma resident Robbi Firestone's work can be found in some of the most prestigious homes, admired by Hollywood's 'celebutante' community. She relocated from Los Angeles to the Puget Sound after discovering the PNW's rich appreciation and support of the arts and artists. Firestone travels extensively painting portraits for clients around the world. "The arts have flourished in our region largely due to PONCHO's 46 years of major contributions. Arts education is imperative for creative problem solving. It is our responsibility to provide creative learning environments for our children. This is why I support PONCHO's mission," said Robbi Firestone. A major honor for her art work, the Seattle-based PONCHO - Patrons of Northwest Civic, Cultural and Charitable Organizations often selects a Seattle artist for this honor. "As Gala Chair, my goal was to offer our patron's auction items that are unique only to PONCHO. Robbi's art form is beautiful. It is an honor to introduce her to our audience, who I know will be impressed with her creativity and talent as I was," says Gala Chair Rose Dennis. For the winning bidder of this exclusive, custom art experience item, Robbi Firestone will visit your home for a one day sitting with the subject of your portrait. "My Spirit Capture oil portrait represents your inner essence. We discuss your vision for life, your joys, passions and dreams. I script an intuitive reading into the background of the piece, speaking of the divine 'Beauty I See in You," says Robbi Firestone. Other glamorous auction items include trips to Iceland, Istanbul, Spain, London, New York and Paris, premier tickets to Seattle sporting events, fabulous fashion and jewelry items, and once-in-lifetime gourmet dining experiences. The Nouveau Green Section which will feature the latest in "going green" items, experiences and services involved in sustainable living. This year's theme is Nouveau Glam. Under the majestic vision of Gala Chair Rose Dennis, guests will be treated to an alluring evening of humor, fantasy and glamour while indulging in signature cocktails, spectacular, multi-course cuisine and a fresh, behind-the-velvet ropes 'after party' in the edgy Fashion Lounge. To inquire about the Robbi Firestone, Spirit Capture oil portrait item, or to purchase tickets to PONCHO's Nouveau Glam Gala call 206.623.6233. You may also visit the event website: http://www.poncho.org/galaauction.shtml The evening is proudly sponsored by the evening's Presenting Sponsor, JP Morgan. Media Sponsor is Washington CEO. NOTE TO EDITORS: Robbi Firestone is available for interviews. Contact Jamie Chase at (253) 732-4369 or email jamiejchase@mac.com or Robbi Firestone (310) 990-4018 or email Robbi@RobbiFirestone.com About Robbi Firestone, Oil Portraits Robbi Firestone attended Parsons School of Design and Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She worked as an art director in top Manhattan advertising and publishing firms, and then moved on to produce, assistant direct, and coordinate projects in Hollywood's entertainment industry. Now a full time oil portraitist, Firestone is a graduate of the Artists Trust EDGE program, and featured artist at Seattle's 2008 PONCHO Gala. Please visit www.RobbiFirestone.com or call (310) 990-4018 for more information. About PONCHO PONCHO is dedicated to enriching the quality of life in this region through increasing resources and community support for the arts. Since 1963, PONCHO has allocated more than $33 million to nearly 200 area arts organizations through the PONCHO Gala Auction, PONCHO International Wine Auction and the PONCHO Invitational Fine Art Auction. PONCHO achieves its mission through those who support PONCHO's vision of a financially stable arts community where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate the region's world-class arts. More information on PONCHO can be found at www.poncho.org # # # Thanks for your support! I hope to see you at the PONCHO Gala! Blessings and Namaste... Robbi Firestone Spirit Capture, LLC | 2315 N. Pearl Street | Suite 10-235 | Tacoma, | WA | 98407 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You rock. That's why Blockbuster's offering you one month of Blockbuster Total Access, No Cost.

Vision for More

Since last I wrote, I have been fortunate to travel to Loreto Bay, Mexico, Los Angeles, California, and now I glance out my window at the deep, soft white of Utah snow, high on the mountain at Alta. The sun is piercing through the clouds, banding a slice of laser white light across the highest peak. I often think to myself, "When I am so blessed, how do I dare vision a life of 'more'?" Since February I've personally met Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Dr. Deepak Chopra, Hillary Clinton, artist Robert Shetterly, and seen Marianne Williamson speak at Agape International Spiritual Center. Where in my consciousness do I have the right to ask Spirit for more than I have right now? This is a common questioning I bring forth in my life. 'Deservedness.' When I was younger, if I saw a person who had a disability, I would fall into guilt; "Why do I have two functioning arms and legs, an clear processing brain or other advantages that they do not?" I felt a profound unworthiness at having 'more' than 'the other.' I lived in NYC, and I worked as a counselor at the Young Adult Institute in my 20's. Counselors were responsible for supporting adult clients with mental and physical disabilities as they moved through their daily tasks such as dining, showering, or other scheduled activities. One day a client named Ramona sat down and began drawing on paper. She had never expressed an interest in art before, and she was thirty three years old with the measured mental capacity of a five year old. Very focused, Ramona frantically created an extraordinary repetition of amoebic shapes in a distinct, perfect asymmetrical order. It was the most powerful artwork. Beautiful. As her hands erupted in a frenzied execution of her creation, quiet giggles trickled from inside her until they, too, erupted into an empowered, deeply heart felt, unrestrained, joyful laughter. Tears fell from her face as she created, and I watched in wonder as this woman felt a glee drawing that I rarely felt. One day I was talking Ramona through her daily shower. I somehow triggered her schizophrenia. With the same impassioned power she used in her art, she grabbed my hair and threw me into the shower stall, pummeling me with her fists. I was fortunate to have escaped with only a black eye and some deep bruises. Reflecting on her 'disablity', I realized that Ramona taught me the freedom to feel my art, and my deepest rage. She was emotionally free. How dare I be so self centered as to believe I had any 'more' than this woman who taught me so much? Ramona may very well look on my life with pity...She was not disabled with my societal norms, familial masks or religious guilt. My personal, historical, socially constructed habits canceled out my potential moments of laughter erupting from my belly. My familial or religious masks neutered my ability to create art from the depths of my heart. How can I compare my experience to hers, and feel guilty as if I have more? Only my previous perceptions were placing her as 'less than' or having less. I certainly think she did not feel the inequality that I created in my mind between us. Now I dare to desire 'more', guilt free, acknowledging with gratitude that I have much. I know that I am a Distribution Point for Good. If I recieve more into my life, if I create a life of plentitude and joy, then I have more to give. I commit to giving-to supporting my world community by daring to dream for the ultimate More. I claim and stand for the right of World Peace, that every mouth be fed, and every child educated in a way that supports their intellectual, spiritual and cultural growth. I vision for dis-ease to pass into the void, replaced by brilliantly vibrant cells. I claim the Truth behind the facade that we must as individual nations consider ourselves separate.. I challenge you to dream and vision more for your life. We deserve ultimate abundance of health, wealth and wisdom. Dare to Dream. Vision for more. Be as Grand as you can be. Your 'more' will help the world. Love and Blessings, Robbi

Caucus at 1PM today...

Dear Friends, Today—Saturday, February 9—all eyes are on Washington as voters make their voices heard in the Democratic nomination race. With a neck-and-neck race between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, what happens in the Washington caucus could determine who ends up in the White House next year. Your vote WILL count. So please vote tomorrow. And bring your spouse, kids, parents, roommates, partner, neighbors, co-workers, or anyone else you can take along with you. Unlike typical primary voting, caucus voting requires being there at an exact time. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. and delegate selection begins shortly thereafter. Any Washington voter can participate. Where to vote: You can find out where to go by clicking here: http://www.wa-democrats.org/caucusfinder And here's a guide with answers to some frequently asked questions about caucusing: http://www.moveon.org/r?r=3405&id=12096-4755624-tCO5bm&t=219 Make your voice heard! Blessings, Robbi

Spew: Posts from February 2, 2008

Spew: Posts from February 2, 2008: "Firestone scores PONCHO SUZY STUMP: PONCHO IN THE FACE >>> She might be originally from red carpet row in Los Angeles, but now Tacoma resident Robbi Firestone has scored a major honor for her art work. She has been selected to be the featured artist for the 2008 PONCHO red carpet gala auction April 12 at The Westin Hotel in Seattle. More often than not the Seattle-based PONCHO — Patrons of Northwest Civic, Cultural and Charitable Organizations — selects a Seattle artist for this honor. Not this year. Tacoma represent. Posted on February 02, 2008 at 10:12 AM in Arts & Culture, Tacoma, Visual Arts | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0) Digg This | Save to del.icio.us"

Meeting Dr. Deepak Choprah and Nobel Peace Prize Microlender, Dr. Muhammad Yunus

This week I had the pleasure of meeting two great Visionaries in person, Dr. Deepak Chopra, Scientist/Spiritualist and Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Nobel Peace Prize winner for creating Grameen Bank. Best known as the 'Banker to the Poor' he changes the world through Microlending. 80% of Bangladesh's poverty stricken have now borrowed money from Grameen Bank, fully changing the face of the country's economy. If you have an opportunity to discover Chopra or Yunus' work through their books or speaking engagements, do so. The power and light emitting from these people makes me remember and recognize my own power and grace. They inspire me to live my best life, using my business to make a difference. My commitment since the inception of my company, Spirit Capture, LLC is to contribute (at least) 10% of sales to charitable causes. Although this goes against the traditional concept of 'maximizing profits' in capitalism, I believe in taking care of each other. And I believe my company will succeed greatly because of this belief in taking care of each other. After seeing Dr. Choprah and Dr. Yunus, I continue this commitment with more passionate dedication than ever. Three cheers for these heroes. May they continue to support millions in their entrepreneurial quests for a living wage. May they continue to inspire us all to support our own communities. Join me in volunteering your time or resources to causes you love. My work, your work, will be better for it. My Blessings and all my love, Robbi Deepak Chopra: http://www.chopra.com/ Dr. Muhammad Yunus http://www.grameenfoundation.org/?gclid=CPul0ujEj5ECFSGXiQodwG07Ag