This is my life...

My life is so incredibly good.
It hasn't always been.
Even when trying to maintain a positive outlook, there have been times that my life appalled me. Times when I really didn't know if I could stand to wake up one more morning.
I have been blessed with a peaceful interlude.
Sure there are details of my life that could use some "restructuring", but in general, I am so grateful to wake up and realize where I am. And I only occasionally dream of the bad times, now...
Just for today...

Spring has truly sprung.
It is 65 degrees, and rising. The bird are heavily intoxicated with pollen, and singing their hearts out. (lookin' for love in all the wild places)
The photo is of a abalone shell that belonged to my grandmother, Bess. She brought it home from a summer trip, as a girl. I remember it sitting on her mantle when I would visit her in my youth. Whenever I catch it out of the corner of my eye, sitting so sweetly on my mantle, I think of her. She was gone by the time I turned 19. She had a inner strength that I hope I have inherited. I am pretty sure I have....
Life is such a surprise.
One lesson after another.
Each opening up new insight to the next.
We never really know...
not without retrospect.
I am so very fortunate.

Quality of light....

Light thru glass,
Light thru raindrops,
Light thru leaves....
It is all slightly different in quality.
This is why I love to photograph images.
It is also why I love Art Glass.
Taking the abundant resource of sand,
putting it under pressure and heat, and creating a
thing of beauty.
Then, using the other abundant resource, the sun,
and letting it transform the glass into a "light factory"
is one of the most interesting visual experiences I can
imagine.
How wonderful.

By the sea...

I just love the coast.
I love going down to the beach,
sitting in the sand, exploring for shells,
salty wind in my hair.
I love the sound of waves on the shore.
I love the warm glowing feeling of having been
in the sun just a little bit too long.
I love the meals that we make at the beach, fresh seafood,
fresh melons from the roadside stand, and tomatoes!
I love meeting friends at the beach, as they too are on
vacation, and therefore, much more relaxed and
liable to put aside their "work faces".
Real smiles.
AND lest I forget, my favorite,
BEACH MUSIC! Sand in my shoes,
washed ashore, under the boardwalk, Oh my!
I am so fortunate to have grown up at a time that
was safe and carefree.
The beach I remember from my teens is no longer in
existence, it is covered with condos.
BUT, in my memory it is so vivid, so real,
I can almost taste it.
That's why I paint.
Memories.

On the other hand...

I had lunch with my son yesterday.
It was wonderful to see him full of confidence,
well almost full...
He has a new job, is working hard,
and isn't afraid to get his hands dirty.
I am so proud of him.
He is in school, and takes classes online.
I think it is wonderful that classes can be taken online.
I am so glad that he has a life that includes
having lunch with his mom.

My Books....

I get my inspiration from incredible sources.
I am so fortunate to be surrounded by talented people.
There are many artists in my life, who are willing to let me
into their world just long enough to capture images of beautiful talent.
How lucky am I?

Included among my books is a book about my friend Heather,
who has overcome incredible odds to create her jewelry.


Ciao!