FILMS OF SUBSTANCE, A FAMILY OF CHANGE

The LIFE CHANGES NETWORK, has released its choices for the Top 10 Independent Films That Could Change The World.  It's encouraging to think of the people who were so inspired to tackle the difficulty indie filmmaking process - from idea, to script, to production, to post, to premiere - to bring us these positive and transformational films. 

I love the number one film, "Stand With Me" and your kids probably will, too. All of the proceeds of this movie are donated to help end child slavery worldwide.

If you'd like to "live better" in 2015, then carve out an afternoon to watch one of these films with your family and follow it up with positive action.  Discuss what the positive change in your life might be: it could be as simple as clearing the pantry of nutritionless foods, or, selling cookies and lemonade for a worthy cause. Nevermind the initial griping that might ensue with your kids, just keep in mind that is simply their way of trying to gain some control in their lives, and carry on.  Stay strong, encouraging and positive throughout the process, and let them take the lead on some of the project. In doing so, you'll be fostering young leaders while also sharing a positive example of parenting and community empowerment.  They'll feel good about you, and, hopefully, be happy with their own contribution.  

What better gift can any of us give to future generations than to care and to take action?

For more about Life Changes Network, go to: www.lifechangesnetwork.com

Review: The Passionate Artists Behind TWO GRAND, I'M YOURS!

 Fiona Joy Hawkins and Trysette kick off Fall 2013 tour with a full-house fundraiser in Raymond, WA.  Catch their next date in Oregon, Trinity Alps, Sutter Creek, Mill Valley, New York, Boston, Denver, Grand Junction, Aspen, Phoenix, Julian or L.A.! 

The two Aussie singer/pianists, Fiona Joy Hawkins and Trysette, are a striking, talented and funny duo that warm up a room with their vast hearts. Trysette had instinctively reached out to Fiona about touring together, after hearing her music online, and a journey was born.  They created Two Grand, I'm Yours! and toured the U.S. in 2012; this year, they're back with a new show and new material, for a series of intimate venues, small theaters and private concerts.  

Both artists have lived full lives, as evidenced in the fluidity and depth of their arrangements and vocals. To make something sound simplistically honest, yet eternally poetic, is a feat only emotion-drenched souls can contribute. To create real art, touching art, one must live, and both artists offer their depths to their audience in spades.

Fiona's ethereal soothing vocals, in harmony with richly melodic beats, cradles the listener into a timeless moment in life, rich with sensual beauty, astounding imagery, and love. Her new album - 600 Years in a Moment - debuted at #2 on ZMR's international radio chart.

Trysette's powerful feminine vocals play with one's heart strings 'til they come undone and one is happily surrendered to the depths of their heart and soul, in a beautiful mess of love.

Fiona was born in Cessnock NSW Australia and raised in both Newcastle and Tamworth, her family home was filled with music. Fiona, "My father played Jesus in the Tamworth Musical Society production of Jesus Christ Superstar, Andrew Lloyd Webber's music was part of our lives." Classically trained as a pianist, her artistry ventures into the visual domain as well, with as much expertise and sentiment.

Fiona's paintings are Chagall-esque and stir up one's imagination with the splendor that Fiona seems to have effortlessly claimed in her tool box. Her love of imagery is apparent also in her song, as one cannot help but feel transported to eloquent, stunning landscapes that are new, comforting and soulful. The two worlds seem to work in harmony for her:

"The idea of synchronicity has always intrigued me, colours, ideas and emotions all have corresponding sounds," said Fiona. "I believe in the power of music as a source of inspiration and a way of reaching people, and I can transfer a musical quality through my art to the canvas."- Fiona

Trysette grew up on the northern rivers of NSW, Australia. Her lyrics are beyond eloquent yet she says, “I'm not sure why I'm able to write lyrics because I don't remember doing so well at English in school. I was just so brokenhearted at the age of 19 over a silly boy that all I could do was pour out my feelings on paper and that's where the song writing began. I'd been classically trained on the piano for many years but without my teacher knowing, I'd play ragtime and pop songs instead of practicing my scales, but this ultimately helped me in the process of learning to write my own songs."

Trysette spent her pre-tour weeks in L.A. recording her next album.  Her previous album, Le Cafe Ancien takes you through the break up of a deep, almost lifelong relationship and into the birth of a new life and the joys and nerves that must come when exploring new love.

“I wrote these songs during a very emotional and life changing period of time and though there are obvious moments of heartbreak and turmoil, the overall feel of the album is light and hopeful with a theme based around moving on and finding a new path” says Trysette.


Two beautifully artistic, intelligent, strong yet sensitive souls. But the wonderful reality revealed at their show is that they are hilarious, and they love making others laugh, too! If you are lucky enough to grab tickets for one of their shows, you will be sure to feel, love, laugh and never forget the night you opened yourself to this spirited, eloquent duo of love, passion, grand pianos,and guarantors of a fiercely good time.

So what are you waiting for? Go to: www.twograndimyours.com for info on dates, tour videos, and more about special Guest Artists Peter Janson, Paul Jensen and Lorrie Sarafin. 

On Film: The Fruit Hunters

Growing interest in Conscious and/or Transformational Entertainment has laid the groundwork for the Environment-specific Film Festivals that are popping up around the country, and one of the best is the Portland Ecofilm Festival at The Hollywood Theatre.  

Their next screening is THE FRUIT HUNTERS on May 9th, starring actor and community activist Bill Pullman, in a sumptuous film by director Yung Chang’s exploration of nature’s sweetest bounty. It's described as a cinematic odyssey through nature and commerce that spans prehistory to the present, the filmmakers propose that it will change not only the way we look at what we eat, but how we view our relationship with the natural world.  The thrill of the chase experienced by these characters is absolutely endearing, and they certainly made me feel better about paying $3 for an organic mango at the market.

Catch it 5/9 at 7:30 pm if you're in the area, and stay for the discussion afterward with Jim Gilbert (One Green World), Katy Koelker (Portland Fruit Tree Project), and Harriet Fasenfest (Culinate blogger).

Click for info and advance tickets or watch the trailer.