Discover an Artistic Prodigy

During my time in Oregon this year I had the privilege of watching my sister Toreah complete several art pieces, expertly - and seemingly effortlessly - turning ideas into concepts and sketches and finally finished, tangible oeuvres.  At age 17, her ability to capture soul-stirring emotion while telling a story in her work is incredible.

When VANS shoe company solicited designs from high school students across the US, Toreah submitted a design under the "Local Taste" theme and, along with 4 of her classmates, has made it into the semifinals!

It takes 1 click (and no registration) to put your vote in, so check out some of Toreah's work below and then follow this link to support her by voting by Friday, May 9th for North Medford High School in VANS' popular vote contest.  She could win a trip to New York City, see her shoe design manufactured, and win $60,000 for her school's art program!   

Jackie Evancho

Everyone knows I have a soft spot for child prodigies.  The raw talent of these individuals blows my mind on a regular basis.  This little girl simply takes my breathe away!

Miniature opera sensation Jackie Evancho was discovered on America's Got Talent a few years ago. Here's her latest performance - at the Wall Street Journal's Christmas Party. Here's the catch: She's 11 years old!

Want to see more?  Google "Jackie Evancho" - and prepare to be amazed :)

A 5th Grader's Solution to Inflation

I was on the phone with my mom last night, when Raam, my youngest brother, calls out,

"Hey Mom! Tell Shirah I know how to get rid of inflation...

                     ...Just wait a while, let the earth get more populated, and then more of the money will get used."

TED: Ideas worth spreading

This site is by far my biggest weakness on the internet.  I could spend hours listening to truly mind-blowing and inspiring lectures and performances on everything from technology to entertainment, design, business, science, culture, arts, and global issues.  Most sessions are under 10 minutes, and the rest seem to be about 20.  Just the right amount of time for the inventor/scientist/genius to make a few concise points and keep the audience engaged.  It's one of the best ways to stay up on current developments in a whole range of industries, even if you have just a few minutes to spare. 

My favorite thing about the organization is that you can go to your iTunes Store and download the talks for free.  I listen to them while I'm at the gym; it makes an hour workout go by in a flash! And when I drive to Portland this weekend, you can bet I'll plug my iPod in for a marathon of exciting, informative TED speeches. 

I highly recommend TED to anyone who likes to feel productive while relaxing.  If you're a parent, I suggest you browse the site and search for some topics that your kids have learned about in school or have taken an interest to.  The videos will really engage them and it will be a fun way to keep their growing brains stimulated throughout the summer break. 

Just click the logo below to visit the site....Happy TED-ing!

this little girl has stolen my heart

Little seven year-old Emma Resmini is a force to be reckoned with in the world of floutists.

This is one of my favorites.....

And here's a little encore....