Summer Nights...

I have always loved Summer nights...
and more so now.
Summer nights are different here. The sun still shines brightly in the evening hours and even on a week night, you will find happy people in Annapolis!
Last night there was dancing as a disc jockey played some great music from the past.

Other happy people chose to dance across the water in their sailboats.

I had my usual venti cup of Starbuck's....

and simply enjoyed taking pictures...

and people watching.

This is such a wonderful community and the people not only appear to be so happy, but also healthy and full of life.

I saw packs of teenagers dancing and laughing...even toddlers.

It's so refreshing to see the young people involved in their community.

Even the pets are welcome at all events and establishments here! I have been thinking about getting a dog.

Yes, I love Summer nights and love to be out and about, taking in every bit of it!

Put On Your Party Dress...

Put on your party dress...
today is my mom's Birthday! Although I am now many miles away...
Mom, you are in my thoughts today! Happy Birthday!
I have always enjoyed drawing women's clothing and accessories, then adding my choice of colors and prints. It's so much fun, and a way to express my own passion for clothing...
not to mention,shopping!
I created this little dress yesterday as I was trying to keep my mind off of the 3:15 dental appointment. Yes, I fear these trips to the dentist, however, it turned out to be a very pleasant experience. This dentist even discussed his love of art with me!
Once again, mom...
Happy Birthday!
I love you.

IMAGINE...

As I listen to the world news...
or even news surrounding many people in which I personally know, it saddens me that there is so much conflict taking place. I suppose this has always played a big role in my choosing "solitude". Others may see this as a form of isolation and being unhealthy, but in my world, I have had to stay well-guarded. It's my reality after experiencing much betrayal from loved ones. Through the years, I have, however, also discovered that I truly can enjoy my own company. I am not one who feels the need to be the social butterfly or to have someone in my presence to be happy. In fact, I am happiest when I am creating my own fulfillment...
it could be simply with a paint palette full of bright colors, a brush in hand...
arranging fresh flowers in a beautiful vase...
writing in a journal...
listening to the birds singing outside...
daydreaming...
sipping on an extra creamy latte...
reading a good book...
taking pictures of pretty places, faces and things!

I have grown to know, that if my heart is light and I am not burdened by guilt, conflict, hopelessness, anger or sadness...
then I AM okay.
If we can sleep through the night peacefully, knowing that we gave our best throughout the day, whether it be at work or play...
and if we can awake and see our reflection in the mirror, KNOWING in our hearts that we ARE GENUINE...
then we are okay.
We cannot change others, nor should we even attempt to do so. This only wastes valuable TIME and ENERGY.
What we CAN do, is be examples for others. If they see that we glow and are filled with joy, love, compassion, honesty, loyalty...
they most likely, will wish for this as well and follow.
Just IMAGINE...

These were my thoughts this morning as I painted.

Wishing each and every one of you a perfect day!

July 4th weekend...

Well, this 4th of July was much different for me. There were no fireworks, no family, no events. Instead, it was a very quiet July 4th holiday filled with Starbuck's moments...

lunch at "Cheeseburger In Paradise". I do love this place! The food is great, the Reggae music is just my style, and the tropical atmosphere takes me away. It's a fun place!

At 8:00 this morning I was in Annapolis, once again, sipping on some java, watching the city workers clean the streets from last night's festivities, people walking their dogs, runners...

I went to the farmers' market for some lettuce, resisting the fresh baked breads and muffins.

Until this time next year, the 4th of July is now just a thing of the past. I continue on with my journey, moving forward...

one day at a time.

I hope that everyone is enjoying this holiday weekend!

GREETINGS GALORE...

Oh my... I feel so "behind"!
The last time that I blogged I was sharing tea with you! It was a lovely 2nd Annual "Mad Tea Party" and many of you left the sweetest comments on my blog...thank you so much! I read each and every one of them and even visited all of your tea parties throughout the weekend! A big Thank You to our online hostess, Vanessa! Hats off to you, Vanessa!
I received two blog awards recently. A thank you also goes out to Audrey and Jennifer for presenting me with these awards. I am most appreciative. Unfortunately, I do not have good luck in finding 14 other bloggers to accept the awards and to participate, so...this task remains unfulfilled, my apologies. I have not "picked up" my awards because I am unable to fulfill,... time also playing a huge factor in this.
Yes, I am keeping quite busy lately. I have been working on my art studio, un-packing boxes, and life is at last, beginning to feel more "normal" for me. I take one day at a time.
Art...
I try to keep it my primary focus because it is a great coping skill for me. Very therapeutic.
Above I share with you, my latest creations... watercolor greeting cards.
I am in need of several Birthday cards this Summer, along with a few weddings to acknowledge. I have been painting away!
I am on the go each evening...
EXPLORING...PHOTOGRAPHING...DISCOVERING...SEEKING... and LIVING.
That's all for now.
Wishing you all a glorious Wednesday!