LaTeeDa

Photoshop is an amazing program, but like anything, it takes patience and perseverance to achieve the results you want. I spent hours working on that photo today, and I confess I spend more than two hours a week on stuff like this. But, it's been so healing for me to let my creative side out after working for so many years in a rational and logical career. (IT)

I'm still not completely satisfied with my Crater Lake photo. I'll probably revisit it sometime after I learn more. Meanwhile, I think I'll print this version to hang in my office.

L

DesertEyes

For those who can't afford Photoshop there's "Gimp". Almost as good and totally free.

GIMP - The GNU Image Manipulation Program

Mike
* who uses both for a living *

theuncertainty

The program Gimp is so cool. I love it. So far nothing I've done looks nearly as beautiful as LaTeeDa's photo - or Pierat's cool signatures and avatars, but I used to play around with the software a lot and now that I remember that I have it will start again.

How about knitting? I'm working on a sweater from my DS and am hoping to have it done before he outgrows it. Seriously, when I started it, it was 3 sizes bigger than he was wearing, but it's going to be a close call; and while it's been a couple months since I started it, it's not my oldest unfinished object.

sesh

For me, the thing that kept me sane through my darkest hours was playing arcade games and improve your brain games. It was an escape.
Lately I've started doing acting workshops, and I really enjoy it. It is a great self exploration tool and it really reduces stress, as I chose ones that are quite physical. One of the best experiences for me so far.
I aslo do Pilates 3 times a week.
But the thing that has really kept my sanity is this place, as it has been a reality check point for me for a very long time.

fourmaggie

transformyself

Hey Lotus! Where'd ya go? We're having all this fun without you. Come back!

And poor Wicked. Stay away from those flying monkeys, they're trying to keep you from buying your dream boots!

Bernadette

Knitting!!!!

I still haven't graduated past scarves - but I love it! Especially in the winter - it just feels so cozy to have all that yarn on my lap or around me!

peace-
B

BklynGrl

crochet or knitting

nodaybut2day

I just signed up at the Y (and yes, I have the dreaded song in my head everyday) and have taken to try a new class every week. Last week I did African dancing, and today I did Persian dancing...SO. MUCH. FUN.! And sweaty! There's nothing like working up a good sweat to give you that natural mood enhancement.

Lotus2009

LOOOL ... you guys are awesome!!!!

Transform... I don't think your move will stretch out a whole semester - at least I hope not ... but I'd be happy to help you anytime (seriously, let me know!!!). And if you have some extra drama laying around, feel free to hand it over, I think I'm starting to realize that I like to create a little bit of drama (or an unhealthy push and pull relationship) when there is none, so maybe if I take on another person's drama, I won't feel the need to create my own

Summerpeach.... lol - hot monkey sex, huh!? ... Yours and Pelican's idea of publishing my "hot monkey sex" journal afterwards, might just be the best idea ever. Second income ... suuuper tempting !!!! LOL! Love it!!!

But seriously you all, THANK YOU SOOO MUCH for all the helpful suggestions. I haven't decided yet (I think I've got another week before I need to make a decision)... so I'm gonna make a list with all your ideas and then pick one!!!

BuffaloGal

Learning guitar basics, and SINGING. I was a passable singer for years, and spent a lot of time harmonizing to the car radio... and improved without noticing. There have been times in the past couple of years when my friends ask me to sing, or record me, and I can't believe that sound coming out is my voice! I miss the heck out of the life that alcoholism took from me, but on the other hand... I gained this new identity, which includes being, among my friends, that chick who can improvise a harmony and hit the high notes. It's a great feeling.

Oh, also, weightlifting. I've had to slack off due to other obligations for awhile, but it was great for keeping sadness at bay and making me focus on the moment during the worst of my divorce.

Hmm, note to self, this monkey sex thing sounds interesting too

Hadassah

I quilt. It needs my undivded attention, so for awhile I don't think about my life. I also walk. And pray, H

kher

I know it might sound silly, but what about pole dancing classes? Around my area you can take a class and it is more fun than your basic aerobics class, its all women (of all ages and shapes) and you feel incredibly feminine and sexy when you come out. Of course, the pain sets in the next day but it is worth it

FarawayFromCars

Cycling is my number 1 outlet for releasing stress. When I am on my bike, I feel free and I do not think about anything else. I also work with animals, which is wonderful. Being craftsy is another love of mine--knitting, sewing, making things....keeping my hands busy.

naive

i like sewing lately.

i modify my clothing...add this...remove that...tailor it...

also fun to sew sheer voiles for the windows, pillows...

lately, i've been buying old fur coats and cutting them up and adding fur collars and muffs to my leather coats...it's very cold here in scotland and the fur is cozy...

naive