I’m feeling melancholy. Exactly ten years ago today our world changed forever. It was the day our country lost its innocence. On September 11, 2001 we were cruelly reminded of the fragility of life. It was the first time the United States was made to feel vulnerable. As I reflect back, my heart fills with prayers. I realize it’s still difficult to absorb the pain and devastation that occurred on that dreaded morning. I wanted to honor those affected by 9/11 with something beautiful, so I decided to post some of my favorite flowers.

The beauty of nature reminds me that a higher power does exist.Wishing each of you a peaceful day.

 

 

Last weekend my pal Lauren and I headed to Locke which is a charming town located in the delta of Central California. Locke was founded in 1915 by a group of Chinese occupants who originated from Walnut Grove.

Lauren is a brilliant photographer who sees the planet through unique eyes. I have learned so much about picture taking just from watching her. She’s taught me to move my body instead of moving the subject mater. This seems to make photos more interesting. I have tons to learn, but as I continue to practice I can see my photos telling more of a story nowadays.

I especially enjoyed the community garden which was blooming with amazing sunflowers. The bumble bees were busy spreading the love, and I was thrilled to catch a few of them hard at work! Take a peek at Locke…

 

I recently had a lovely visit with a soul sister. Carey and I have known each-other for over 25 years and have laughed and cried our way through life. This treasured friendship is filled with unconditional love. We instinctively live in each-other’s heart, even though life prevents us from chatting often. We both understand that although most days are filled with kids, chores, jobs, and husbands, we are silently standing side by side. We never let temporary separation affect the quality of our friendship. We know that when we do get together, neither one of us will skip a beat.

From day one Carey found deep meaning in my Parkinson’s Disease and has been a continual source of strength. She is a brilliant ray of sunshine who sees the positive side of everything. Her insightful words have empowered and reminded me that I’m deeply loved and cherished. Thank you friend.

Recently Carey and I met at Wine and Roses, and caught up on life. This tender re-connection was filled with belly laughs, heart to hearts, and precious tears. Here are some shots of our magical time together:

 

I love to shop. I mean I really love to shop. I’m a slow shopper simply because I feel compelled to look through every nook and cranny. I’m particularly fond of antique stores. These zany treasures were spotted in Old Town Clovis, which is located in Central California. Every charming store was filled to the gills with rockin’ retro relics. Take a gander, and see what I mean:

I’m back with more pics of a trendy Palm Springs hang-out, The Ace Hotel. This place has a following of hipsters who drink Pabst Blue Ribbon beer while listening to music I’ve never heard of. Bright colored Vespas line the outside of the lobby patiently waiting for cool kids. The hotel is sparsely decorated in a 70′s/college dorm motif, which pretty much cracked me up. A “canned-ham” vintage trailer adds a weird touch to the pool area, which also made me smile. Enjoy the last of my “Ace” shots: