From The Journals of Dan Abernathy
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Living at the end of Pole Creek Road, next to Fall Creek has been being present in utopia for the summer. I have been truly living in joy and enJOYing the serenity of solitude. Though I have slipped away from the anarchy that is happening with the hordes I would like to displays what I preached in a resent post.
“We are all stronger then we think. There is a calming safety away from the flock. We just need to remind ourselves that there is no reason to do what everyone else is doing.” – dbA
I also pulled away from social media and was focusing with grand determination on making art. New art that is a combination of many influences I have dabble with. This new art is larger then I have done in the past, and I have just begin. There is no telling where this new venture will take me and the creativeness of my obscure mind. Below see the images I created in what I call the Somniative Collection.
Contributing to the Chaos while – LIVING – LIFE – LARGE
Printed September 14, 2020
Back in the spring of this sullen and dark shadowed year, amidst all the chaos and manufactured fear, I tired of social media. I had weaned myself some time ago from spending precious intervals of time consumed in its scrolling addiction. I did however; continue to slightly dip my toe in trying to circulate a few moments of positivity. This was a gurgle of my thoughts. I made my splash without looking to see the ripple effect of likes, or getting caught up within any negative quagmire.
Nevertheless, in the spring when the new anarchy of negativity exploded, I found myself implementing my own means of social distancing. I detached myself even further from the toxic orb.
I posted new art work from time to time, but I slowed to a halt my words and images that I have shared for years trying to promote and induce thought while giving a bright glimpse of the beauty and excitement I find in so many things I see and feel.
The way a large portion of the population living in our so-called civilized life live is largely based on many different illusions. These misleading impressions of deception are willingly uniting the thinkless as they except and collaborate unquestionably. The fact is, that these guided ways and the many types of forgeries fed to us daily are also quickly forgotten. They are clocked with a false reality and simple become, the way, as we forget the reason for their origination.
Often and many times what I find, as I glimpse into this spinning vortex of this misleading fallacy of deception is a deity of Greek mythology. “Medea” was the goddess of illusion. Knowing this I find more understanding with the source of news and what is being delivered by the “media.”
Today, according to Pew Research Center, 62% of adults in the United States use social media as their news source. Facebook is leading this uncensored platform. Even though Facebook is a leading outlet of news, they are not liable for their content. They censor what is being posted but they cannot be held responsible for what is. Facebook is only a social networking site.
We fill ourselves with fear and disbelief as we open our eyes for that brief moment to see reality is being torn down all around us. Because of this fear, we, the so-called civilized society, again close our eyes and allow it to continue.
Right now we are being maneuvered with the use of fear, guilt and shame to be part of a populace that has lost its direction and will follow where thy are escorted. This direction does not have to be obeyed. Being your own person, an individual, is still highly possible with just a slight realization of who you truly are.
Ridicules rules, regulations, laws and dominant command will not infiltrate and infect the principles of your existence as long as you keep space in your heart for the pure, good and the unimaginable.
The greatest compulsion within our society is being enslaved to the habit and practice of constantly verbalizing your problems. If you want to awaken and experience a true shift of great consciousness start articulating the wonderment of living with joy.
Who you are is greatly influenced by what you say and who you think you are. When you constantly speak of fear, fear becomes your truth. When you constantly speak in anger, anger becomes your truth. When you constantly speak of hate, hate becomes your truth.
Knowing that all things are possible when you speak with the calmness of love and compassion this truth will be who you are. Who you are is only limited by how you project who you think you are.
I have minimized the need for the comfort and validation our society calls for as a convenience to live. I have reached a stage in being, as I’ve scrambled, tumbled and climbed throughout life, I now except and understand that I am about 97.5% feral. Perhaps I have somewhat reverted to the wild and removed myself from domestication. Though this is unpolished by todays meaningless standards, I doubt I will ever be able to be integrated back into society.
Now more then ever, amidst all this negativity that we are trying to live and survive in, there is a much greater need for the constant injection of positivity. It is hard to live a positive life and live it free, with a daily bombardment of negative elements allowed into your mind. – dbA
You can find more, free spirited and unfiltered insight of Dan Abernathy at www.contributechaos.com
The eclectic Somniative Collection, which has no borders or parameters. This collection is inspired and created from found natural objects and or rusted metal from abandoned dumpsites. These old, antique reclaimed and repurposed metallic objects are used to enhance the uniqueness. These are one-of-a-kind, completely created by the hands of the artist.
This is art on metal and part of my eclectic Somniative Collection. It is created on cold pressed steal using acrylic paint pens. The background metal is rusted and painted. Allowing the paint to mix with the rust creates a unique, weathered color and expression that becomes one of a kind. The edges are wrapped in patinaed copper.
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
All the money that I have raised for this cause, in my contribution with Art Carneys for Playa Gigante, is sent to Khaki who lives in Playa Gigante. She makes sure it gets to the people that need it. Her commitment is unsurpassed. I wanted to share with everyone her Gratitude for Gigante. What she wrote for her birthday month!
Gratitude For Gigante
It’s my Birthday Month and this year I’m asking for your help?!
Over the last 6 years I’ve been super blessed to call Nicaragua home (and I’m hoping that continues for many more)! This country and culture has taught me so much!
This beautiful people taught me what it feels like to really have a community:
During difficult time throughout the world you see people become divided but the people here take care of each other. The fisherman hand out free fish in the mornings to families that can’t afford to buy some. Those who farm beans and rice share with their neighbors. I watch children take a candy and break it into 10 pieces so every kid around gets a piece. That same community has also welcomed me in with open arms.
This place taught me: how to slow down and really connect to myself. When I first moved here very few place or people had WiFi, it’s a small fishing village so it is mostly you and nature. The life style isn’t faced paced either so it really forces you to get quiet and look at yourself.
The people here taught me: the importance of family. This culture is a very family driven culture most kids play with their cousins or siblings. Most families gather at various times of the day to connect to each other and bring in a little humor.
This place taught me: how to be raw and go back to basics. When I first moved down here supplies were limited. You bought veggies and fruits off of trucks the pulperías (corner stores) sold you basic hygiene products and a few basic materials for repair items (These things have grown a little bit or maybe I’m just accustomed now) The road out of town was dirt and the nearest city was an hour away. It’s also a very poor community (financially but you won’t know that by positivity the people carry) so many people can’t afford much outside of what they really need. This taught me how to problem solve quickly and on the fly, how to look at repurposing materials when you don’t have what you need and how to really think about what you need versus what you want.
The people here taught me: what it means to work hard but with balance. Living in the fishing community I watch mostly men go out in extreme conditions to catch fish because they need to feed their families that day and do not have another option. Before the whole town got on a town well. I watch children and families walk long distances to just have a few buckets of clean water. The conditions here can been challenging but despite that Connection is huge. I watch people stop on their way to say hello to the neighbor that haven’t seen in a week. I watch friends and family take time to really be with each other and not let the hardships of their days overtake the moments worth living.
This place taught me: how to reconnect to the earth and our existence as part of the whole. The scenery here is incredible and even after six years I walk out side in amazement almost everyday to the beauty around me. I listen to the waves crash against the shore all day, I listen to the wild monkeys call each other in the mornings, I watch and listen to the parrots in the evenings fly over as they head to their nightly resting place, I watch turtles come to lay their eggs and whales pass through on their bi-yearly migration. Most of the pigs, horse, and chickens roam free and wonder back to their houses for meals. There is a essence of living together and sharing this space we call the world. (There is still a need for further education and harmony here but as a trying to be conscious being you can’t help but feel connected)
Now I’m asking you to help me continue to help them. Most people here are picking up any jobs they can or fishing and farming in less than ideal circumstances (and in many cases dangerous) and still not able to meet basic needs (food for their families, medical care, education, and animal needs). Any and all donations are greatly appreciated. $5 usd buys 2kg of Rice, 2 kg of Beans and small bottle of oil. $5 usd keeps a kid in school for a week. $20 buy a 40lb bag or dog/cat food $20 for a weeks worth of prescription medications. Any amount you can spare and share it always greatly appreciated. As donations are allocated I will post on Facebooks thank you to those who have contributed and show you how the money was used. This place is incredible and deserves to be supported during a difficult time out of their control!! Thank you for taking the time to read this and thank you to those willing to contribute.
May We All Stay Connected and Support Each Other!
Much Love,
Khaki
All this help has been amazing and it cannot stop. Please go to my website and click on the link to Art Carneys for Playa Gigante.
From all that I am I thank all that have donated, all that are donating and to the ones that are going to donate. To you all …. I Thank You!
Playa Gigante
Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing and now with the global pandemic, these proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button.
There will be a list of donations received. Please let me know when you make the donation if I can post your name and amount, or if you prefer I will keep it anonymous.
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Join the free spirited people that are following the thoughts, ideas, inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Go to http://www.contributechaos.com. And subscribe for Email Notifications to stay with the unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy. A man that can’t and won’t fit in!
From The Journals of Dan Abernathy
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
It comes to no surprise that bodies lay near the edge of the tall grass. Some have been murdered while some frolic in the jubilation of picnicking. There will be songs about the dead. Yes there will be many songs about the dark times as we now fear the moments of bliss and without haste eat our picnic lunch. – dbA
Contributing to the Chaos while – – – Living – Life – Large
On June 15th of this year I celebrated 40 years as a Wyoming resident. I lived on the upper Willow Creek Ranch on what was referred to as the Shriver Place, or the Pape Place, depending on what era of inhabitation you knew it from. I was truly at the end of the road with nothing beyond but, Willow Creek Guard Station, a trailhead and the National Forest
The cabin had no electricity. The water was piped in from a spring and an unobtrusive quiet was everywhere. It did have a large bookshelf, which I promptly filled with books to use under a gas-burning lantern.
This old cabin, which is gone now, was the most serine and comfortable space I have ever called home. It was truly a calm dwelling of tranquility, both in reality and in memory.
Now, forty years later, I am again finding myself at the end of a road, not the same road but truly another calming place of serenity. I have also come full circle with living in rural Wyoming. Fortifying my foundation of calmness, as I relax in the energy of solitude, I am again walking fence lines and chasing water in an attempt to keep some grass green.
The last 40 years have been an adventuress ride in many special and distinctive ways. As I sit now on the edge of the pond, perhaps with a glass of wine, basking in the alpine glow of the evening, I ponder thought in the reflection of what is, I have come to understand, the world is going to continue rotating whether people understand you or not.
As I continue to get in touch with the person I am I seem to have lost the worry about people comprehending who I am. I simply concentrate on what brings me peace and joy. I’ve accepted and learned that the flaws of who I am, the awkwardness, the eccentric weirdness, the intensity and vulnerability, the complete all, of who I am, is nothing more then who I am. Living in this disarray is also a freedom that no mater what, can and will not be altered.
As for myself, which is really all anyone can speak of, I prefer to stay undefined. In doing so, I can identify in a much broader scope and also understand that thoughts are not a problem unless you allow your problems to be your thoughts. While doing this, and not fitting in I also understand that the path has no map or direction and there is no faultless adaptation of the present moment. We cannot always remove the errors to make them right.
No matter how you embrace your authentic self, there is a different rendition and interpretation in the translation that exists in the minds of everyone who knows you. For those that think they know you, this rendered explanation is even further from who you are.
As your energy of being is present to you and to those around you, so too is the energy of other people. When you are with people, in the moment, you share the same breath of air, and the same field of energy. These times can and should be invigorating for all involved, but they can also be depleting.
Some people are imbalanced, un-centered and completely out of touch with their own personal source of energy. These often drag you down and make you feel exhausted after being in their presence. They can be friendly, cheerful and on the surface look and act as if they know nothing but positivity and compassion, but below the surface their imbalance, is roaring out of balance. These people exist on the energy transfusion of others.
I caution myself, as I don’t want to depict harsh judgment on anyone. They are seemingly lost while constantly asserting help, but not for the compassion of giving kindness. Their motives for helping stem from gain and they look for how their giving will benefit themselves. At times they attach themselves like barnacles and become increasingly dependent and extremely more demanding. To reinforce their self-worth, which is born from being insecure and filled with low self-esteem, they become dominate and confused manipulators.
Though I am told that I’m welcome, I am not. I am not welcome because I want no part of the reality I’m asked, or told to enter. Simply analyzed, I’ve had enough and I choose my deferment and venture towards self.
Humanity has lost the ability to walk a path that is not marked with guidelines and direction. Freedom has been replaced with authorized maneuvering and accepted passage. As the projected reality is coagulated, galvanized and annealed to endlessly create a world of confusion, struggle and chaotic limitations.
I stand-alone on my foundation of calmness, which in itself is a mystery for some to understand, I have reached a point where my mood and emotions do not shift based on an insignificant action of another person, or group of peoples. I walk true to myself and will not allow others to control the direction of my life.
What has been forgotten, lost, forfeited, or set-aside is that so many people have failed to remember and notice, is that usually it’s the small simple things in your lives that truly count the most. – dbA
You can find more, free spirited and unfiltered insight of Dan Abernathy and his wandering travels at www.contributechaos.com
Somniative Collection
The eclectic Somniative Collection, which has no borders or parameters. This collection is inspired and created from found natural objects and or rusted metal from abandoned dumpsites. These old, antique reclaimed and repurposed metallic objects are used to enhance the uniqueness. These are one-of-a-kind, completely created by the hands of the artist.
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
I must applaud, thank and tell the world what amazing individuals Brad Reimers and Cheryl Essington are. They have been relentless in their help for the people of Playa Gigante. It fills me with gratitude that still after all that is going on here I am still being gifted compassion for the people of Play Gigante. You can be assured that the hardships that we are experiencing here and greatly multiplied in this little fishing village.
Like I said before, each and every dollar that is brought in goes directly to the people. There are no administration fees removed or a fat check paid to a CEO for being a part. We are here for the people. It is that simple.
These donations are not just about the amount; it is also about kindness and compassion. It is about feeling good inside when giving to someone with no other motive then to just help. I’ve had friends dig deep into their pockets for a few hundred dollars, and other friends, that could only afford $2.00, or $5.00. But they gave. They give just to help and it all touches my heart.
All this help has been amazing and it cannot stop. Please go to my website and click on the link to Art Carneys for Playa Gigante. There is information there and the donate button is on the bottom of the page.
From all that I am I thank all that have donated, all that are donating and to the ones that are going to donate. To you all …. I Thank You!
Playa Gigante
This small fishing village of Playa Gigante, Nicaragua is severely struggling. Because of the political crisis in Nicaragua, the loss of tourism, and the unemployment is at an all-time high. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing. These proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Join the free spirited people that are following the thoughts, ideas, inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Go to www.contributechaos.com. And subscribe for Email Notifications to stay with the unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy. A man that can’t and won’t fit in!
From the Journals of Dan Abernathy
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Contributing to the Chaos while
Living – Life – Large
As we are living in some crazy times now I feel the best way to combat them and heal yourself is by Soaking in Nature. Here is my last column where I describe what happened when I was doing so.
Natural Healing
Humanity is a stream that has flowed for 1000’s of years through times of joy and through times of devastation. However, the headwater of this stream is pure and always spilled from an untouched source.
The wisdom of being who we are is being forgotten. Because of the addiction of materialism we have forgotten and ignored that the best things in life are not things. Perhaps it is the reason so many people are searching for the same thing the “Tin-Man”, sought.
It has become increasingly quick and easy to censor, denounce and criticize what is being shown to us as we are told what to see. Throughout all this social viewing we are not seeing what should be seen.
I open my eyes to see, but all I saw was a country filled with disorder and confusion. This imbalance seemed to suck the life from who I am. To tidy up this jumbled array of perplexity and derangement, I had to withdraw. I retreated to nature where nothing is judged, or seen for what it is not.
How lucky we are to be here in this small rural town of Pinedale. With so much around us twisted in chaos we are, in reality, very lightly touched. We are also living with a backyard that is intact.
We have, whenever needed, a healing modality that is beckoning us to come find the energy to be healed from the stress we are living in. It is real and each time I walk with the trees and breathe, my thoughts become calmer and my calmness grows taller.
The moment I left the situation that was created, “down country,” was the precise moment I chose not to be a part. I saw absoluteness. I tossed away the noise and littered the natural landscape with my judgment, fear and comparison. I fortified my foundation of calmness and strolled to a higher state of being. I walked into the realm of self-realization and then I knew that everything is going to be all right.
I hiked across the outlet and traversed the lingering snowdrifts, making my way to the top of a sagebrush-covered knoll. Looking north across the open water of the outlet and the frozen lake, I spotted a white dot in the distance. It was contrasting the pristine deep blue sky.
It was moving in a hypnotic pattern and coming towards the knoll I was standing on. Soon it grew into two white dots. I closed my eyes thinking my vision was blurred. When I opened them, the white dots suspended in this brilliant blue sky had transformed into a bald eagle.
The eagle was peacefully circling in figure eight patterns over the open water. I stood in awe as it glided near me and continued its flight down Pine Creek. I was spellbound, for I was not just looking, I was seeing.
The bald eagle, the symbol of freedom, conveys the powers and messages of spirit. It is man’s connection to the divine because it flies higher than any other bird. When a bald eagle appears it bestows freedom and courage to look ahead of what is.
In the Bible, Isaiah 40:30, reads “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.”
I felt a restored freedom of what is. I no longer allow myself to see and live in what society wants, and I cannot find fear. I stand in all my imperfections believing everything will be better.
As the world fills itself with fear, I will not. I will not let the power of the masses distort my peace. I will be safe and I will respect others, but I will do so with a greater calmness of being. I will continue to walk my path and be who I am, who I was and who I will be.
I am not an elitist. Among many things that do not need to be listed, I am a Reiki Master and a disciple of the Essential Way. It is my quest to live each and every day with mindfulness, compassion, kindness, love and gratitude.
Learning and expanding the mind is not just the accumulation of knowledge. True wisdom is the awakening of consciousness, the birth and activation through many different shades of being.
When opening up who you are with a clear mind and heart you become aware. This awareness may or may not have an effect on you, as we also must include personal choice. Just as I have chosen my way, I too honor yours. No matter what path that may be.
One of the most profound things that can be done is to look closely at your surroundings. See and appreciate what is there and what you have right now. Do this; really look and you will see. In one years time there will be nothing that is the same.
When this time of challenge and bewilderment has passed, what will truly matter is our kindness and how we have treated and respected each other. – dbA
You can find more, free spirited and unfiltered insight of Dan Abernathy and his wandering travels at www.contributechaos.com
Chool Cast Episode 15
Episode 15 of The Chool Cast features Living Live Large, the column of Dan Abernathy, music from the elusive Buck Frampton and an amazing essay delivered by Frank Quarters. There are also a couple of eclectic poems in the Oral Art of the Spoken Word. The show is going to evoke thought and evoke a smile.
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
I have been amazed at the generosity of people. Even in the middle of these trying times I have received some donations for the people of Play Gigante. It fills me with gratitude. You can be assured that the hardships that we are experiencing here and greatly multiplied in this little fishing village.
Like I said before, each and every dollar that is brought in goes directly to the people. There are no administration fees removed or a fat check paid to a CEO for being a part. We are here for the people. It is that simple.
These donations are not just about the amount; it is also about kindness and compassion. It is about feeling good inside when giving to someone with no other motive then to just help. I’ve had friends dig deep into their pockets for a few hundred dollars, and other friends, that could only afford $2.00, or $5.00. But they gave. They give just to help and it all touches my heart.
All this help has been amazing and it cannot stop. Please go to my website and click on the link to Art Carneys for Playa Gigante. There is information there and the donate button is on the bottom of the page.
From all that I am I thank all that have donated, all that are donating and to the ones that are going to donate. To you all …. I Thank You!
Playa Gigante
This small fishing village of Playa Gigante, Nicaragua is severely struggling. Because of the political crisis in Nicaragua, the loss of tourism, and the unemployment is at an all-time high. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing. These proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button.
There will be a list of donations received. Please let me know when you make the donation if I can post your name and amount, or if you prefer I will keep it anonymous.
The Oral Art of the Spoken Word
I want to toss a plug into the air. I just had 2 poems excepted into an upcoming book. Last Call. It’s poetry from poets that are influenced by Charles Bukowski and echoes some of his style in their own work.
After my first book of Poetry, Looking for Security While Wearing a Loincloth, came out I was interviewed for the Newspaper in Jackson WY. When asked who my influences were, my response was Bukowski, Brandigan and Henry Miller. They taught me to have a style of freedom in your writing, which I have. I have no fear or worry to allow any uncensored thoughts escape in verse.
The Oral Art of the Spoken Word
Orate Feathers
It’s recited as a hymn,
releasing the unsayable
that once was perched
on the back of your tongue.
Its darkness
released into the breath
of lost souls
looking for the light.
As the hymn grows
louder and stronger,
the willing follow deeper
into an unfathomable void.
I calmly sit.
I quietly listen
to this melody
I cannot seem to follow.
All I can hear is screaming fear
from the flight of a canary
trapped in the chapel
its small ornate feathers
floating in the air.
Feathers that tumble
as it crashes against
the stained glass windows
wanting nothing more
than to be free.
Listen
I walked though the forest
and the ancient trees told me,
“Listen to the wind
as it will tell you the truth.”
I stood on an open ridge
and listened to the wind.
It spoke loudly
telling me,
“Listen to the silence
it speaks more truth.”
So I did.
I sit among large rocks
worn smooth
from listening to the wind.
Their silence told me
“Listen to your heart
as it hears what is being echoed
from your soul.”
Words from the collection, 2020 Poetry and Words
You can find more of my poetry on my website in the volumes of
Looking for Security While Wearing a Loincloth
I Don’t Shave on Sundays and
My Mind Has Forgotten to Age
From My Sketchpad
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Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find the links to this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at, http://www.contributechaos.com.
From the Journals of Dan Abernathy
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
John Prine
I cried the morning I heard the news of John Prine passing due to complications from Corona virus. Spirit made him an angel, and the angel has flown. He has been with me pretty much my whole life. I found his music when I left home at a very young age in 1975. I have held him at the top of my music every since. His music was in my head as I walked the creek after my father died. His music has soothed me in sadness and lifted me with more positivity in Joy. He has walked on, but he has left a gift that will be part of people for eternity. He is now forever, in the poster from an old rodeo.
Chool Cast Episode 14
This Episode of the podcast has more music from Buck Frampton. He does a tribute to John Prine. It is great and Anouk, (who I believe in another person of grid,) accompanies him. Plus more Obscure words from me.
Contributing to the Chaos while
Living – Life – Large – Column
March 30, 2020
Putting all aside and out of mind for a bit, now that the days are growing longer and the snow covering the ground is growing shorter, it has provoked time for a walk, a soak in nature. My destination for such an event was Fremont Lake.
Fremont Lake is just a few miles from town, but so much different in the snow pack. We are in off times now. Mud season is not here and though the snow is receding, it is still here. The trails are not open as they are still drifted in and the bottom is falling out of the ski trails.
I followed a ski track for a short while before giving up to the “post holing” effect of breaking through the crust and veered off into the unpacked snow. I saw some open water at the outlet of the lake and decided that is where I wanted and needed to be.
With just about every forth step, the melting snow would settle and drop into about a four or five foot radius around me. This sinking whoosh of the snow made the next few steps easier. As I got to the outlet, there were three Trumpeter Swans swimming in the open water and three Canadian Geese on the iced edge.
I quietly stood watching and inhaling all of my surroundings. The sounds of nature were smoothing and became a sedative. The swans soon calmed from my presence and started grooming themselves while omitting guttural noises. The honkers made a fuss and turned up the volume of the scene as the pair, mated for life, was being assaulted. The third goose must have lost its partner and had tired of being alone. This goose aggression painted some chaos in my serine scene of nature.
Off in the distance a few crows added their disapproval, or perhaps their applause, with unmistakable agitated voices. I was a part of it all as I looked, felt and took deep breaths to fill myself completely with being there. My mind emptied from what was, to fill with what is.
As the sun dropped lower, I turned and headed back through a small grove of aspen. Reaching out to evoke the sensation of touch and stimulate another sense, I felt the smooth bark of an aspen tree. I was truly stunned at the difference of the Aspen.
I have touched many aspen trees throughout my life but I believe this is the first time I actually felt one. The green live trees had coolness to the touch and their living energy was felt. The brown and black aspen that no longer stood with life were rough and much warmer. This sensation and realization not only stimulated my sense of touch, it also stimulated thought. The coolness came from the moisture, the lifeblood of the living tree, just as the falling ones were warm and dry in the decay of their deathbed.
Our senses, what we see, hear and feel is how we observe. They are the conduits in which our lives are influenced. Through them we are touched with who we are. The more alive and active they are, the more we see and feel our surroundings, both the good and the bad.
Stimulating our senses is not living to wake in the morning and stumbling through the day without seeing what the day is. This is a wasted day, but yet some do. Some seemingly never wake up. They spend their day oblivious to what is around them until they again shut down for the day. Sadly this way of being often happens again the next day, and the next. It is a pattern that becomes a way of life and evolves into a life trait.
You can choose to see the world as a threat with bad experiences where negativity becomes the way of being, or as an easy out. Or, you can choose to see and experience the world as each opportunity unfolds as a new anomaly where each moment is new, now and alive.
When your path through living has been enhanced with some adventure that perhaps included a bit of thrill and danger which sparks some emotions of fear, you feel alive. It fills all the senses with life as each one is peaking with excitement.
When you experience the world and living in transformative ways all things become possible without limitations. These adrenaline laced times influence who you are to better enjoy and live the quiet times of solace. These times of serenity also fill with wonderment and amazement as again all your sense are alive.
When you slow down and look at what’s around, you will see what is there with new eyes. You will notice more. Explore your surroundings; open your eyes to see the leaves, trees, clouds, rocks and fallen branches. Observe the world for the mystical place that it is. Be there. It is not how far you walk, or how long you are there. Just immerse yourself when you are there. Be guided by your senses as you stimulate each one with completely being where you are. – dbA
You can find more, free spirited and unfiltered insight of Dan Abernathy and his wandering travels at www.contributechaos.com
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
I have been amazed at the generosity of people. Even in the middle of these trying times I have received some donations for the people of Play Gigante. It fills me with gratitude. You can be assured that the hardships that we are experiencing here and greatly multiplied in this little fishing village.
Like I said before, each and every dollar that is brought in goes directly to the people. There are no administration fees removed or a fat check paid to a CEO for being a part. We are here for the people. It is that simple.
These donations are not just about the amount; it is also about kindness and compassion. It is about feeling good inside when giving to someone with no other motive then to just help. I’ve had friends dig deep into their pockets for a few hundred dollars, and other friends, that could only afford $2.00, or $5.00. But they gave. They give just to help and it all touches my heart.
All this help has been amazing and it cannot stop. Please go to my website and click on the link to Art Carneys for Playa Gigante. There is information there and the donate button is on the bottom of the page.
From all that I am I thank all that have donated, all that are donating and to the ones that are going to donate. To you all …. I Thank You!
Playa Gigante
This small fishing village of Playa Gigante, Nicaragua is severely struggling. Because of the political crisis in Nicaragua, the loss of tourism, and the unemployment is at an all-time high. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing. These proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button.
There will be a list of donations received. Please let me know when you make the donation if I can post your name and amount, or if you prefer I will keep it anonymous.
From My Journal
Artist Statement
Each morning I open my journals and pour into them myself. These are thoughts and ideas that arrive from unlimited sources. This is my voice, be it in words or in art. It is a collection of oddities, fascinations, desires and obsessions – a road map of sorts, tracking the life of a man that can’t and won’t fit in.
From My Sketchpad
I try to create art each and every day and for the most part I do. I get a lot of pleasure from the ink pen and spend a lot of time in the evening focusing on this type of drawing with is called, stippling, while other things that are boiling around me become a secondary subject. As you call clearly see the first one is a bison skull. The second one is a wolf.
Tragedy and Beauty
There is a tragedy involved
with the mind and life of a poet.
They live in places
others cannot see.
They live in places
Others cannot walk.
They see life
without looking .
They feel the breath of life
with all their emotions.
Their release,
are the few lines
communicated
with blood from the soul.
This tragedy
is also
their beauty.
A Greek Goddess
The curved sculptured roundness
of her ass was exposed.
The silky covers,
messed and tossed aside
covered only her legs and shoulders,
her long hair tossed about in a natural,
tangled garden of beauty,
making her become the faint vision
of a Greek goddess.
The dampness of a night
filled with lust lay dormant
while passion still lingered in the room.
The contour of her hips
resembled polished marble
as if they had been carefully carved
by an ancient sculptor.
All I could notice
and acknowledge
amidst this moment of breathtaking beauty
was the mosquito,
sitting on the sculpted roundness
of her perfect ass,
injecting its stinger
deep into the exposed
soft and tender flesh.
Words from the collection, 2020 Poetry and Words
You can find more of my poetry on my website in the volumes of
Looking for Security While Wearing a Loincloth
I Don’t Shave on Sundays and
My Mind Has Forgotten to Age
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find the links to this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at, http://www.contributechaos.com.
Living – Life – Large
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Contributing to the Chaos while
Living – Life – Large
Column
Dan Abernathy – Number One
February 2, 2020
As time rolls forward the one consecutive thing I do is to write. Each morning I put pen to paper, as I am old school and this is the way my words twitch before they get typed out and end up printed in some fashion.
Writing an opinion column is nothing new to me. In years past, more years then I would like to broadcast, the Pinedale Roundup was the birthplace of, From The Hip, a column slightly void of description except for being a platform of my observations, quirks and oddities.
From The Hip, covered many topics, leaving some with the nod of approval and smile, while others shook their heads in wonder and disbelief. There were readers that responded with praise, aggressive rebuttal and condemnation, or to perhaps just to express their confusion. All however, reacted because the column did what it was expected to do, evoke thought. This thought was, and now is, never delivered proposing you should follow it. It will be written to provoke a thought of your own, what ever that thought may be.
Not being freighted with change I couldn’t find a good reason to stay with the column title, From The Hip. I thought about it for some time and I always returned to what I have already been branding. Live – Life – Large, so that is what I kept. Contributing to the Chaos while Living – Life – Large an opinion column by Dan Abernathy.
Some of you know me some of you do not. Some of you will want to know me, while others will not. Some of you I imagine, will quickly run screaming in disbelieve of this printed declaration that will be swirling into your eyes, leaving the stinging residue of a dust storm. Whatever reaction is spawned, this is my voice, and it is ruled by none.
Within this realm of writing I expose myself in one of two ways. An unstoppable rant seeming as if like I have consumed four lines of coke, three shots of tequila and seven cups of espresso laced coffee while sitting in the back of an all-night diner, or like the Buddhist monk practicing a vow of Zen calmness where all is good. This is just a slight warning to the way of my being and seldom is there much of an in between.
I am about being an individual. I believe you should walk your own path and it should never, two steps behind and to the right. I have been tagged with, contributing to the chaos, and I accept this definition proudly. My way of contributing is about donating to life and living. I believe this should be accomplished with a carefree attitude filled with reckless abandonment, while exuding calmness and compassion amidst the disorder.
Our world is in a constant chaotic state, in this capacity of high confusion and disarray, if we carefully look and listen beyond the pandemonium, we can now hear the rumbling of oncoming anarchy. It is said that this is a natural progression as, “we the people,” wait for Plato and Socrates declared arrival of the Philosopher King. So contributing to the chaos, with good and through many obscure facets, is in fact contribute to life. We must live life now, with the way of mindfulness as our future is truly, only tomorrow. This is the only way we can find some contentment and sense of who we are, in a world that is insensibly out of control.
For myself, I have been in this game way to long to put my cloths back on now. Nor will I settle down, get a job and find comfort with what many may consider the normal way of living. Within this life that is mine, I can adapt to no rules but my own, and these rules will not allow me walk on anyone else’s footpath.
So hold tight to your britches and feel the free blowing wind in your face. This is going to be a fun ride filled with abnormalities and wonder. We will be going places with fresh eyes, places where rules are found, learned and then perhaps bent a bit to ignite thought and a small bit of joy. – dbA
Contributing to the Chaos while
Living – Life – Large
Number Two – Dan Abernathy
Actors Need To Remember What Their Jobs Are!
Within this thunderstorm of current governmental affairs we are in, the airwaves are seemingly overflowing in a debauchery of shameless bantering and echoing, “he said – she said.” This static white noise is becoming deafening and overpowering to my tinnitus. Out of self-preservation, I have chosen to ignore, abandon, give up and turn my back to all the pointless and absurd political rhetoric that is destroying our beloved nation.
So, when the masses tuned in with some type of hate-monger attitude, or possibly just to sit quietly in bewilderment and watch the State of the Union Speech, I found rebellious comfort and relief by tuning into Zombieland 2: Double Tap, to watch Woody Harrelson attempt to eradicate zombies.
I am not a huge fan of zombie movies but this one, in its morbid ways, was humorous and did just what it was supposed to do. This movie entertained me with no residue of disgust hovering over my evening on the couch with popcorn and friends. Though Zombieland 2, was not the type of movie I generally choose to find entertainment in, in its ridiculous, bloody and grotesque way, it delivered my thought and mind, well…, to nothing. As millions watched a speech that I’m sure was filled with the same bile the zombies were coughing up, I laughed at the senseless stupidity with reckless abandonment.
As I am in this diatribe around the fringes of television viewing, I will reveal some honesty with discussing television. I will escape the “Cool Way” of proclaiming that I’m to intellectual to watch television and declare that I do. I, like most who say they haven’t, have been watching TV all my life. I no longer can force myself to adjust the knob to find CNN, FOX, ABC, CBS or NBC, I doubt that I will ever not find some time to be involved with the entertainment released from the little flat screen.
I rarely forfeit my viewing time to the new shows being brought forth and released. I will freely admit to being hopelessly addicted to Law and Order, but most of the new programing does not resonate to highly with me. I can understand that it may be deemed trendy by other sources, does not so much for myself. When it comes to television viewing, I have given myself freely to living within the world of reruns.
These shows, from another time, were filled with acting and often an underlying meaning that pointed to a way we should be, or at least try to be. These shows from the past, light up the room and project a feeling of good without pushing an ultimatum to how to be trendy. I venture in to the land of black & white reruns, where actors acted and didn’t need a costar of special effects. They offer me an escape as I empty my mind from, “what is,” for a brief moment of escape and getaway.
Television, movies, actors and acting are supposed to be about entertainment. The mission of television and movies are to entertain. The job of an actor is to act and entertain, as they create a passageway for their audiences to escape reality for thirty minutes or perhaps even two hours and ten minutes. Combining the two together should become the vehicle to escape and forget this troubled world that we are living in.
Because of our fickle society, celebrities of all venues have become the heroes and because so, they have become a voice to the people. Though I agree with Joaquin Phoenix’s massage about compassion, when he accepted his Oscar, I really could care less if he has taken a stand and doesn’t put cows milk on his Wheaties. Robert De Niro bashes the current administration as if he acting his part in, “The Irishman.” Meryl Streep, Roseanne Barr and Cher, bashing or indorsing someone in the political arenas means nothing. Actors and actresses should not use their names to sway a vote and endorse political parties.
Politics and religion should not be talked about in a bar, on a beach or at Universal Studios. Actors and actresses should remember that they have made their millions by acting in a false perspective of life. Why should we think their words carry more weight then it truly does? I strongly believe everyone’s voice matters, but we all should pause a brief moment before we speak. An actor’s job is to act, so they should continue to act and by all means, “Act Right.” – dbA
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
We are in the second month of this humanitarian Campaign to help Playa Gigante and we are helping this small fishing village. The donations of compassion you have given have not only helped feed these proud people, it has helped in other ways as well. We have purchased school supplies for kids unable to afford them. We also have gotten prescriptions for some elderly people that have not been on their needed medications as there was no money to get them. With the generous help of you, the donators, we are making a difference.
Like I said before, each and every dollar that is brought in goes directly to the people. There are no administration fees removed or a fat check paid to a CEO for being a part. We are here for the people. It is that simple.
These donations are not just about the amount; it is also about kindness and compassion. It is about feeling good inside when giving to someone with no other motive then to just help. I’ve had friends dig deep into their pockets for a few hundred dollars, and other friends, that could only afford $2.00, or $5.00. But they gave. They give just to help and it all touches my heart.
Susan and Steve, true Road Carneys are constantly on the road selling at juried art festivals. With each festival they pick a piece of art, when it sales, they donate the money.
All this help has been amazing and it cannot stop. Please go to my website and click on the link to Art Carneys for Playa Gigante. There is information there and the donate button is on the bottom of the page.
From all that I am I thank all that have donated, all that are donating and to the ones that are going to donate. To you all …. I Thank You!
This small fishing village of Playa Gigante, Nicaragua is severely struggling. Because of the political crisis in Nicaragua, the loss of tourism, and the unemployment is at an all-time high. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing. These proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
I am asking for your help, to help them. In the forth-coming future you will be hearing about humanitarian plans to assist this village, and a strategy to raise money for Gigante, via donations and art sales. My goal is to raise $1000 per month. If we can do this, the entire village can be supplied with Gallo Pinto, (beans and rice) and compassionately assisted. In the greater plan of things, $1000 dollars is a truly a very small amount, but to them it is massive.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button.
There will be a list of donations received. Please let me know when you make the donation if I can post your name and amount, or if you prefer I will keep it anonymous.
From My Journal
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Artist Statement
Each morning I open my journals and pour into them myself. These are thoughts and ideas that arrive from unlimited sources. This is my voice, be it in words or in art. It is a collection of oddities, fascinations, desires and obsessions – a road map of sorts, tracking the life of a man that can’t and won’t fit in.
Now I make available 98% of my freedom and perspectives with, Chronologies – Excerpts – Fragments and Reflections, be they unsolidified and random thoughts, words of meaning, words of too much meaning, or perhaps at times, meandering, incomplete and unedited rants, unleashed to the masses. The other 2% I keep to myself archived as a waiting gift for the scholars and naysayers to decipher after I walk on.
I had the opportunity to venture into a doll makers studio with camera in hand and spend some time. It all turned a bit dark, as the bits and pieces that I was viewing seemed to show the dark side of their intended beauty. But with these images showing the dark side remember:
“The path towards the highest light often guides us through the shadows to the darkest of darkness. This is the route, as we must know the dark to know the light. This is the gift; the highest light is there for all that pass through the dark.” – dbA
My Friend
I walk in the woods
to be among my friends.
Each time
I embark on this stroll
I find a new one.
A Tree
standing proud and unique,
waiting with no hesitation
to be my friend. -dbA
I Am
I stand in the solitude of the sea,
the white foam of surf
circling my bare feet.
I feel complete.
Not capable
of knowing impression
or thought.
I just am.
– dbA
Words form the collection, 2020 Poetry and Words
You can find more of my poetry on my website in the volumes of
Looking for Security While Wearing a Loincloth
I Don’t Shave on Sundays and
My Mind Has Forgotten to Age
Chool Cast Episode 13
Episode Number 13 of the Chool Cast is out with some music from Buck Frampton. I hooked up with the elusive Frampton in the costal jungles of Nicaragua and had a strange, though mysterious and indefinable time. You will be witness to more of his obscure and wisdom later on.
The Chool Cast has not been extremely consistent, but then again, neither am I. So it is what it is. I am working towards something with everything concerned and involved, including a video blog that will be, in a sense, different venues to Contribute to the Chaos!
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find the links to this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at, www.contributechaos.com.
Art Murals at Grey Mountain
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Art Murals in Northern Arizona
Native Artist Jerrel Singer
Driving North out of Arizona, on Highway 89, can be a bit bleak. The vistas occupying this barren land are not filled with to many breathtaking views, though if you leave comparison behind you, there is a true uniqueness to be found.
One such sanctuary is on the southern edge of a small village known as, Gray Mountain. Situated on the side of the road, at a seemingly abandoned filling station is an impromptu art gallery with plenty of parking and a great place to stop and water the dog, stretch the legs and view some very unique art.
Jerrel Singer, a Navajo artist who grew up in Cameron and Gray Mountain on the Navajo reservation, is known for his vibrant flowing colors, has painted a group of murals reflecting issues faced by the Navajo people, including uranium mining.
Singer’s murals are sending a message that is tied to the land and his people living on the reservation, a message that needs to be heard more now then ever. A dispatch of significance as it not only comes from Singer, it derives form his home, the place of his birth.
These impactful murals of Jerrel Singer, and the message they are shouting is one to hear. Stop, pay homage and listen to what is being spoken. – dbA
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
I want to give out a Massive Thanks to anyone moved to find the Donate button. With just a small amount of kindness and compassion you will be helping so much. For the cost of a latte, we can feed 7 people. You guys are proof that it is not about the amount, it is about the compassion and we thank you from all that we are.
Richard Lucas, Cheryl Essington, Angelina Deans, Mathieu Jean Robinette – Rooster, Kitty O’Donnell, Amanda Templar, Tommy Sue Kissell
Playa Gigante
This small fishing village of Playa Gigante, Nicaragua is severely struggling. Because of the political crisis in Nicaragua, the loss of tourism, and the unemployment is at an all-time high. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing. These proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
I am asking for your help, to help them. In the forth-coming future you will be hearing about humanitarian plans to assist this village, and a strategy to raise money for Gigante, via donations and art sales. My goal is to raise $1000 per month. If we can do this, the entire village can be supplied with Gallo Pinto, (beans and rice) and compassionately assisted. In the greater plan of things, $1000 dollars is a truly a very small amount, but to them it is massive.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button.
There will be a list of donations received. Please let me know when you make the donation if I can post your name and amount, or if you prefer I will keep it anonymous.
A Page From My Journal
This Art Show has been extended until the end of January!!
A show of my Journals is currently being displayed in the Gallery at the Sublette Country Library. It will be up until the end at the end of the month.
Here are a few new images from the new pages of my Art Journals that are not in the show.
Artist Statement
Each morning I open my journals and pour into them myself. These are thoughts and ideas that arrive from unlimited sources. This is my voice, be it in words or in art. It is a collection of oddities, fascinations, desires and obsessions – a road map of sorts, tracking the life of a man that can’t and won’t fit in.
Now I make available 98% of my freedom and perspectives with, Chronologies – Excerpts – Fragments and Reflections, be they unsolidified and random thoughts, words of meaning, words of too much meaning, or perhaps at times, meandering, incomplete and unedited rants, unleashed to the masses. The other 2% I keep to myself archived as a waiting gift for the scholars and naysayers to decipher after I walk on.
These pieces are available framed and for purchase. Please contact me for information.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at on WordPress or go to, http://www.contributechaos.com.
Khaki’s Kids
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Every morning before the door opens to start the day at Café Cicada, in Playa Gigante, Nicaragua, there is a mixed parcel of anxious children waiting to hear the click of the lock. When the locks do click and the doors open, Khaki Wieters, the owner of Café Cicada, is greeted with smiles, laughter and hungry bellies. Out of the kindness of her heart, which holds huge amounts of kindness and compassion, she feeds these youngsters, but not until they complete a few chores around the café. Then, after a hot breakfast, the children engage in Art Therapy, something that Khaki feels very strongly about as it gives them a sense of pride. She also hangs their art in the back room art gallery of the café.
Khaki also helps spearheads a humanitarian effort to feed not just the morning children, but also the people of Playa Gigante, which also includes helping with prescriptions for the elderly and even care for some of the animals. Khaki feels she was put on this earth to help make a difference and make no mistake; this is precisely what she is doing. There have been numerous times that she has latterly used her last dollar to pay for a prescription or help someone in the village of Playa Gigante, the village she calls home.
Look at these images of Khaki’s Kids, and let your heartstrings be touched, and then please contact me on how to help. It doesn’t take much to help a lot.
Art Carneys For Playa Gigante
This small fishing village of Playa Gigante, Nicaragua is severely struggling. Because of the political crisis in Nicaragua, the loss of tourism, and the unemployment is at an all-time high. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur, on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The village has a small population of about 500 and they are some of the most gracious people I have ever met, but they are in trouble. With the fishing and tourism industry suffering greatly, the unemployment rate is rapidly increasing. These proud people are hurting. They need help feeding and caring for their families.
I too am now involved and asking for your help, to help them. In the forth-coming future you will be hearing about humanitarian plans to assist this village, and a strategy to raise money for Gigante, via donations and art sales. My goal is to raise $1000 per month. If we can do this, the entire village can be supplied with Gallo Pinto, (beans and rice) and compassionately assisted. In the greater plan of things, $1000 dollars is a truly a very small amount, but to them it is massive.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love please contact me. Even the smallest amount will help greatly. I guarantee that each dollar received will be going to help these proud people. Not one dime will be spent on administration fees or salaries to a CEO. Please contact me if you would like to donate something or have any questions about helping. You can also go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and click on the link, Art Carneys For Playa Gigante, it will take you to a Donation button. Myself, Khaki and all the people of Playa Gigante will be forever grateful for your random act of kindness.
I want to give out a Massive Thanks to anyone moved to find the Donate button. With just a small amount of kindness and compassion you will be helping so much.
There will be a list of donations received. Please let me know when you make the donation if I can post your name and amount, or if you prefer I will keep it anonymous.
A Page From My Journal
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
This Art Show has been extended until the end of January!!
A show of my Journals is currently being displayed in the Gallery at the Sublette Country Library. It will be up until the end of December – January!!! Please stop by and have a look into my mind and thoughts.
Artist Statement
Each morning I open my journals and pour into them myself. These are thoughts and ideas that arrive from unlimited sources. This is my voice, be it in words or in art. It is a collection of oddities, fascinations, desires and obsessions – a road map of sorts, tracking the life of a man that can’t and won’t fit in.
Now I make available 98% of my freedom and perspectives with, Chronologies – Excerpts – Fragments and Reflections, be they unsolidified and random thoughts, words of meaning, words of too much meaning, or perhaps at times, meandering, incomplete and unedited rants, unleashed to the masses. The other 2% I keep to myself archived as a waiting gift for the scholars and naysayers to decipher after I walk on.
These pieces are available framed and for purchase. Please contact me for information.
The Essential Way – A Foundation For Peace
A Passage To Salvage Self
Listen to your heart and soul and respect your Emotions
Be in control of your thoughts
Be kind to all things
Remove yourself from what is out of your control
Avoid negativity and meaningless drama
Keep what is important close to your heart
Make time for solitude
Meditate each and every day
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at on WordPress or go to, http://www.contributechaos.com.
The Fishing Village of Gigante, Nicaragua
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Walking Around the Fishing Village of Gigante, Nicaragua
One of the highlights of being on the Emerald Coast was wandering the beaches and back streets, in the community of Gigante. Playa Gigante is a small fishing village located north of San Juan del Sur on the Southern Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. The town entails of about 500 gracious locals, a fluctuating number of expats, some surfers and a few beachfront restaurants and cafes. The residents that inhabit this area are unbelievable warm, friendly and can deliver a smile in record time. A real and genuine smile, one that originated from within the heart before exploding from their face.
This small community of Gigante is now struggling because of the political crisis and loss of tourism, but they are still as accepting and amazingly hospitable. The unemployment is at a staggering high now and you will be hearing more about some humanitarian plans to assistance this village. I am jumping into the effort to help feed these new friends and show them that hope will never fade when it is fueled with kindness and compassion.
I hope you enjoy these images I made while strolling the back street and beaches of Gigante and can see, as I did, that these people may not have much, but in reality have so much more then their materialistic neighbors of the north. – dbA
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
The Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
A show of my Journals is currently being displayed in the Gallery at the Sublette Country Library. It will be up until the end of December. Please stop by and have a look into my mind and thoughts.
Artist Statement
Each morning I open my journals and pour into them myself. These are thoughts and ideas that arrive from unlimited sources. This is my voice, be it in words or in art. It is a collection of oddities, fascinations, desires and obsessions – a road map of sorts, tracking the life of a man that can’t and won’t fit in.
Now I make available 98% of my freedom and perspectives with, Chronologies – Excerpts – Fragments and Reflections, be they unsolidified and random thoughts, words of meaning, words of too much meaning, or perhaps at times, meandering, incomplete and unedited rants, unleashed to the masses. The other 2% I keep to myself archived as a waiting gift for the scholars and naysayers to decipher after I walk on.
These pieces are available framed and for purchase.
Please contact me for information.
The Essential Way – A Foundation For Peace
I will be teaching Essential Reiki I & II in Roosevelt Utah, hosted by Erika Winterton, a supporter of energy workers, and spiritual service based professional commerce.
Essential Reiki I & II
With Usui Reiki Master Dan Abernathy
January 23-26, 2020
The Grace Event Center, Roosevelt, Utah
Reiki is a Japanese healing technique used for energy balancing, stress reduction and relaxation. It is administered by touch, the placing of hands. It is based on the idea of the universal life force energy, which flows through all of us. This energy is the essence of our being, our consciousness and our soul.
Essential Reiki I & II
Essential Reiki I & II are easy to learn and powerful to use on yourself, friends and family. These classes are for anyone interested in learning techniques for self-healing and helping others. Whether you are a professional healer or not, you will enjoy these classes and benefit from the material presented. This class is very personal and relaxed, yet well organized to achieve the intended goals. Essential Reiki is taught using the Usui style of Reiki with lecture, discussion, an attunement for each level, and plenty of hands on experience. There will also be instruction with the use of a pendulum, Kum Nye for relaxation, meditations and Redolence Therapy with essential oils.
Please contact me for booking information.
Donators
I want to give out a huge Thanks to my sponsors who used the Donate button on my website. You are the ones keeping the strange ideas, thoughts and travel stories in the view of everyone, everywhere.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love to help you can Donate to the cause. Please go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and hit the donate button. I will be forever grateful and return the kindness by continuing to furnish random acts of kindness each day and will keep the content of my endeavors alive for all to see, read and hear.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at on WordPress or go to, http://www.contributechaos.com.
Teaching Essential Reiki at Rancho Santana, Nicaragua
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
The Essential Way – A Foundation For Peace
Teaching Essential Reiki at Rancho Santana, Nicaragua
As a Usui Reiki Master Teacher, it was a great honor for me to teach Essential Reiki and pass on the attunements of Reiki I & II with the spa staff at Rancho Santana in Nicaragua. My heart unfolds to Khaki Wieters, Tanya Lexin, Yosselin Acevedo, Maria de Los Angeles Guzman, Yolanda Amador Martinez, Daylin Lopez, Isayana Rosario Mora, Francisca Obando, and Peter Lanuza Gonzalez
My goal as teacher is to help students become competent and confident Reiki healers, while guiding and nurturing them to fully develop their capacity to work with energy and help them develop within themselves the idea of living the Reiki way, not to just practicing it.
As a Reiki instructor it is my purpose to help connect the, “energetic dots,” for the students so they understand the mind, body, and energy relationship. These dots would not have been linked without the amazing help of Tanya and Khaki, who not only were the translators in this all Spanish speaking class, but also the conduits helping the energy flow and touch each person there.
As I watched the Reiki energy ignite during the wonderful days I truly was living the Reiki Way and found the truth of becoming the Reiki Master, for this is when you truly become the student of Reiki.
The Airport Sleeps
It is going to happen. When you thrive with the elevated precedence of being on the road or to travel in general, at some point you are going to find yourself broke down, delayed, or stranded. This experience again materialized, when my flights to Nicaragua were dipped into confusion and I spent the night, “camping” at Miami International Airport, Not that it was much of a camping trip as there was no where to find comfort in airport camping.
Late into the night, after all the restaurants closed, random conversations ended and people filtered into their reasons for being there, I was overly amused at how such a large airport can became so empty. The granite floors lost the flow of feet, as the airport became quiet as the delayed travelers found safe spots to sleep.
So around 2:00 to 3:30, as sleep for myself was nowhere to be found, the creative lights ignited. Never without a camera and never having fully departing from my photojournalistic years, nor the thrill of formulating a photo story, I went on assignment to document, The Airport Sleeps.
Tacos & Tequila
La Taqueria at
The Beach & Surf Club at Playa Los Perros – Ranch Santana – Tola, Nicaragua
When visiting the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua you will be told that the tacos at La Taqueria are the best in the world. I’m not sure how much truth this holds, as I have not yet experienced all the tacos of the world, but until I do the tacos and tequila at La Taqueria will rest high on the at the “Best Taco & Tequila List,” I am constructing. And, for now I will not confuse any palate dreams with euphoric words about the ceviche there.
La Taqueria is located at Playa Los Perros in Rancho Santana, Tola, Nicaragua. An open beach bar and surf shop with a “surf shack sophisticated,” offering light, fresh beach fare in a rustic, casual setting. The open-air taqueria serves baja-style tacos, quesadillas, ceviche, garden fresh salsas and more. Everything served is prepared to order using fresh ingredients including the freshest of fish. The tortillas are homemade from corn that is ground onsite daily.
The margaritas served from your choice of tequila, which runs from good to better, were amazingly fantastic. They too are created with freshness and not from an over sweet mix. This liquid invention and location was not constructed to indulge in just one.
As you indulge your senses with this amazing experience, your sense of sight will also be stimulated from the view of Playa Los Perros, one of the most stunning beaches on the coast. There is also a pint-sized surf shop where you can rent surfboards and acquire beachwear before catching a wave or just meandering along the beautiful beach.
La Taqueria is open daily, 11:00am to sunset. No reservations or shoes needed.
Tacos & Tequila
Tacos & Tequila, a assessment of habitual indulgence, is a venture joining the strange, obscure and baffling elements that I seem to find a requirement to do. I came to learn the importance of tacos late in life, though I have been heavily schooled in tequila. So now in this phase, I am making up for the tacos I’ve missed as I combine them with fine tequila.
This obsession begins with the loss of my dear friend Kelly. It was commonly known that she would drive over 100 miles for a Taco Bell fix. Now that I have followed her trail into the folds of the taco, I will never compare any taco to Taco Bell. Their tacos are unique and cannot be associated to any other style. I must also add that each time I fall to the degradation of a Taco Bell fix, I give tribute to Kelly with a traditional hard shell taco.
Requirements and Criteria
A taco is a fried tortilla that is folded and stuffed with a mixture of seasoned meat, cheese, and lettuce. But, as you have or will see see, you can construct a taco out of just about anything. The only requirement is, it is on a corn tortilla, never flour. The second requirement is it must have a salsa on top.
Tequila, which is only produced in designated areas of Mexico, has had rocky history climbing to the top shelf, but in doing so has become one of the most popular liquors in the world. It is distilled from the juice of the blue agave plant’s heart, known as the piña. While it’s the essential ingredient to the classic margarita, it’s just as popular served “neat,” with a side of lime and salt, affectionately known as “legs.”
What I have learned so far is each taco is as unique as the tequila that primes the taco indulgence. There will be no placing of negativity into this quasi pseudo food review to contaminate any flavors and thoughts of any taco or tequila. So, remember that if I have been to a taco shop that does not stimulate a review, that is infect a review into itself.
So this is where it begins and as far as I am concerned there are no rules and no end that I will ever hope to find!
Tattoo Session Number 5,
With the continued homage to spirit animals, tattoo session number Five is Lord Ganesha. I explained these tattoos on my arm during an Extended Reiki Class, and Adam, a new friend, called my arm, my own personal Totem Pole, which it is. Thanks Adam this is a term I will continue to develop and honor. Each item that is added will be connected to the different aspects of my higher self. Thanks to Joe Chandler for helping me reach this mystical quest of documentation. Take note of this one as t is drawn freehand by Joe with markers before the tattooing begin.
If you would like to offer your skin as a canvas to an amazing artist, I highly recommend giving Joe a call and booking a session. Working with Joe is an amazing collaboration. Contact Joe through Facebook or call 307-941-2423
Donators
I want to give out a huge Thanks to my sponsors who used the Donate button on my website. You are the ones keeping the strange ideas, thoughts and travel stories in the view of everyone, everywhere.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love to help you can Donate to the cause. Please go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and hit the donate button. I will be forever grateful and return the kindness by continuing to furnish random acts of kindness each day and will keep the content of my endeavors alive for all to see, read and hear.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at on WordPress or go to, http://www.contributechaos.com.
The Imbalance Of What Is Now
Chronologies, Excerpts, Fragments and Reflections!
the Artistic Journals of Dan Abernathy
Each day I am invaded with the thoughts of the imbalance of what is now, the common day-to-day now of our crumbling society. A society and nation that was built by the dreams of immigrants and the unstoppable commitments of individuals and I find a sick discontent in the back of my throat. We, as we have become an inconsistent nation, have been allowing the degradation of humanity to happen for a long time. Blindly and guided by greed and broken promises, we have been conditioned to believe rules and regulations will curtail change and keep what we have found, like we found it. But, in doing so we have altered every freethinking thought that was ever envisioned. The natural balance is no longer thriving. It has been replaced with ego, greed and discontent. I will also add, for burning sensation, judgment, comparison and cowardly hate.
On a local level, look at all the use-to-be cool free spirited places of fascination, Jackson, Wyoming, Boulder Colorado, Park City Utah, Taos New Mexico, Sedona Arizona, these were all places found by the free thinking gypsy troubadours. Individual people that was not willing to live by the ways of, “the Man,” any longer. In these places a freedom grew and the only rule was, you had the freedom to do your own thing.
These were the true Hippies that were unwilling to live like they were being told and strived to live by a code of rejecting established institutions, while discarding the traditions of mainstream American life. They opposed violence and war and developed a countercultural movement that developed into a distinctive lifestyle.
Then other people took note of these free lifestyles and they too wanted to be part of it, even if it was just for the weekend, a week or a month. The free spirited paradises started to grow. We all know what happened to these places of the once free spirited minds and what they have become. Now only the extreme wealthy can live freely and uninhibited within the restrictions and abundant covenants of what was once the places to deny established rules and treaties. The freethinking, do what you want foundation of what were these places were built on, has turned to what these free thinking people were escaping from. They are controlled with the phrase, “you can’t do that.”
The control and suppression has no end, no reflection on the past atrocities or no boundaries for the future as degradation of man is bypassed for the greed of the few. Now I look at the ruling party, the head of state and a democracy that was built on the foundation of free thinking individuals and immigrants and see that this is no longer available. We have people deliberately hunting down the oppressed and undocumented, and I also question why each of us has to be documented, as documentation is just another way of controlling the people. Are these people, the hunters, the same type of sadistic, cruel, controlling bullies that hunted the roaming natives of the Americas and beyond? The runaway slaves and the Jews during the holocaust?
This has all happened in the past and history is repeating itself again, though we shudder in fear and disgust with what has been, we stand quietly as it is unfolding in front of us and as a whole all we truly care about is if our morning latte is made right and that the internet stays up with no glitch in service so we can see more atrocities unfold in the latest mas-controlling stream of misinformation. – dbA
Tattoo Session Number 4,
Paying more homage to spirit animals, tattoo session number four are ravens back grounding the Reiki Tree. The Raven signifies intelligence and the ability to learn quickly, it shows mystery and represents prophecy and insight and the guide towards the magical and mystical ways. Each item that is added will be connected to the different aspects of my higher self. Thanks to Joe Chandler for helping me reach this mystical quest of documentation.
If you would like to offer your skin as a canvas to an amazing artist, I highly recommend giving Joe a call and booking a session. Working with Joe is an amazing collaboration. Contact Joe through Facebook or call 307-941-2423
Levi 501’s
It’s not that I’ve cut off
my back pockets,
I’ve just tossed
the right one away
and moved the left one
to the right front
and Levi 501’s
are no longer quiet.
These denim jeans
are much to binding
after knowing the freedom
of Thai fishermen. – dbA
Levi 501’s a new poem from the 2019 Collection
You can find more of my poetry on my website in the volumes of
Looking for Security While Wearing a Loincloth
I Don’t Shave on Sundays and
My Mind Has Forgotten to Age
The Essential Way – A Foundation For Peace
And The Seven Elements of the Essential Way –
Calmness, Compassion, Kindness, Forgiveness, Gratitude, Love and Mindfulness
Live Them
Being spiritual, being kind and being compassionate are characteristics and features that should not be practiced; they should be lived each and every day. – dbA
A Page From My Journal
Ryan gift
After returning to my mode of transpiration, after some magnificent refueling time at my sanctuary on the lake I found a gift from Ryan. It blessed my heart and then found permanent residence on a journal page.
Donators
I want to give out a huge Thanks to my sponsors who used the Donate button on my website. You are the ones keeping the strange ideas, thoughts and travel stories in the view of everyone, everywhere.
If you are in possession of one of those kind souls and would just like to give a donation of love to help you can Donate to the cause. Please go to my website, www.contributechaos.com and hit the donate button. I will be forever grateful and return the kindness by continuing to furnish random acts of kindness each day and will keep the content of my endeavors alive for all to see, read and hear.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications.
Please Subscribe for Email Notifications. Join the free spirited people that are following my thoughts, ideas and inspirations and wandering travels of a searching vagabond. Find this unfiltered insight from the mind of Dan Abernathy at on WordPress or go to, www.contributechaos.com.
Contributing to the Chaos 