If Not Now.....When???

This week I traveled to Bridgewater to work. The first day I went by the exit sign for Stelton Road on Rt. 287. And, I thought the same thing I have thought for more then 40years. I should go to the Baptist church, where my dad's ancestor's are buried. When I was eighteen I started wondering about my dad's family. Mostly the only relationship he had was with his sister. I never heard a word about my grandparents on that side. Later I found out his dad had died the year before I was born. And, his mom had left them when he was three. We had visited West Virginia a couple of times to visit "Nana". And, she was the mother of a step brother and half brother and sisters. I also went to a family reunion once, in West Virginia. But, most of the family history is from north Jersey in the New Brunswick area. Where I believe my dad was born and raised. I was given papers my father was given that traces his family back to the 1600's. When I was going through my divorce, I began thinking about changing my name back to Stelle. So, on the computer it didn't take long to match the names in the family history. I went in the heat one day this week. I took as many pictures I could of the headstones. I will be matching them with the sheets of paper. I hope to visit with my family and give them each a copy of the names in the family tree and show where they are buried. The days are flying by. And, this week I am really proud of myself, for actually doing the things I only think about. I worked where there was a dine in movie theatre. I was able to have a beer, dinner and watch a movie. I came home and fell right asleep and didn't wake until there was daylight. I usually awake every two hours. So, I am so glad I did this. I also went to my rise and write class at Over the Moon studio. I had some time to kill before I went back to Bridgewater. And, I stopped in the Sunset Landing to have breakfast. It was a hot morning, but there was a refreshing breeze. The food, atmosphere and staff was just what I needed to start a long day. I went to a book release at the Community House in Spring Lake. I really enjoyed entering the theatre from the third avenue side. I LOVE that is the library I went to as a child and a theatre I actually participated in a few plays there through girl scouts. I also wrote for the last thirty days. So, now my vacation is starting. Nope, I have to work two days this week. It is Ok though, it will again force me to make the most of each day I have off this week.

Bruuuuuce.......talk to me

Did you ever want something SO bad, when it happened you were so nervous, you didn't know what to say. Anytime I have met Southside Johnny, Bruce Springsteen, or Patty Scalfia I felt that way. But, looking back, the conversations really made me happy for the opportunity. Here are my "situations" when I had an opportunity to say something: Walking out of Martell's after seeing Southside Johnny and ended up walking side by side as he was meeting his car. I was with my best friend from high school and college. And, she just kept on saying "Say something". I turned to her and said "I am the shy one here!". So, I said: "Southside, we love you!". and he went to his car and got in. Still laughing out loud to myself here. The most epic and longest opportunity came when Patty Scalfa came into Brielle Galleries with her mother. She said she was driving to go antique shopping in Point Pleasant and then decided to see what she could find for when they make their annual trip overseas to celebrate Sting's birthday. I really tried to act cool here, and not too much of a geek. Also, it was after 18 tracks was being released. And, like most times in my life, I am selling beautiful, expensive items and I can't even afford to buy the cd of 18 tracks. I believe it was around $50 around 1999. Anyway, I try to make a connection and try to relate to her on some level. But, most of all I remember saying "you are doing an amazing job raising your family, being the wife of Bruce, and I just saw you were on the Late Show with your own release". She thanked me, but I didn't feel much of a connection. But, then the next year (the last year Brielle Galleries was open) she came in and asked for me by name. OH MY GOSH!!!! It was much more of a fun experience this time. And, I wasn't quite as nervous as the last year. The best was trying to find a flask for Bruce Springsteen, that I knew would end up in his pocket (never found "the one she was looking for"). The best part of this interaction was the stories I had to tell my kids when I picked them up for school. And, when I was doing invitations for someone's daughter who worked there. We talked about Bruce and how much her fiance loved him. It ended up somehow they ended up with 2 18 track Cd's and she gave me one! The last is the funniest one ever. My son Ian, was invited to see Pokemon the day it was released for a birthday party. My daughter and friend begged if I could take them to the same theatre (Eatontown) to see the movie. I granted their wish, but the movie was sold out. But, I was told there was another theatre showing the movie in a few minutes that wasn't advertised. So, of course we went in. I sat through it for a while and the age that they were, I just was so sick of cartoons. It was very loud and the lights were giving me a headache. There were several times I thought about sitting outside and waiting for them to come out. When the movie was over the girl in the row behind me asked if I knew who I was sitting across from. I said no, and she told me it is Bruce Springsteen with his kids. OPPORTUNITY! So, we walk very close to them and I am able to tell my daughter who we are next to. And, she keeps saying "talk to him" several times. Finally, I get the nerve and look to him and ask:"So did you write any songs while watching" "Maybe Blinded by the Light part 2" He laughed and then I knew it was him. Then my daughter continued to nudge me to say more. So, I asked if he could shake my daughter's hand and her friend. So, they could say for the rest of their lives: they met Bruce Springsteen. I felt bad at this point, looking at his daughter's face and the boys just kept walking. But, he obliged very kindly and then we just walked to our car on cloud nine. One of the last times I worked in my store Greetings from Geralyn in Convention Hall in Asbury Park, I believe Bruce was in my store. I didn't want to shout over the fan or turn off the music, so I left the counter and walked towards him. He was looking at the 45 clocks and shaking his head in approval. And, exactly the same time I was approaching him, a co-worker who had just quit her job working next to me in Woodbridge, walked in. We had a lot to talk about and I kept nodding my head towards him. And, I have to say our conversation took over, because he walked out before I could ever acknowlege him. These are some of my stories, when I think about, they make me so happy. I have found in life, well really since I had my own store, how important our stories are. It is really helping me now in my present job. Because, what I am finding is I really enjoy hearing my customers stories. And, I am letting them know this. AND, I am so happy they are getting this experience, instead of ordering on the internet. I am never going to knock the internet. Because, after all the stories I continue to have with a lot of customers, I can continue. And, they are from all over the world. Like the sign in the picture: That is DEB DRESBACH and she is one of the customers I connected to the MOST. She is a teacher who lives in Florida. We have exchanged cards from time to time. She makes great Bruce Springsteen cards. And, she has a rich history with Asbury Park. And, her story sparked so much in me. Because, she experienced Asbury Park way deeper then me. I love her enthusiasm and I love her signs. She is a VERIFIED FAN in my book. And, that SHOULD be a good thing!!!!

Reach UP And Touch The Sky

One of my favorite affirmations. Written by the great Steven Van Zandt. "Reach Up and Touch the Sky" Trying to forget the Springseen ticket fiasco and concentrate on the good. The Fourth of July show was cancelled this year for the Jukes at the Stone Pony. But, they have been out on tour. There are local fans who follow the Jukes everywhere. They share the setlists and live video. There are people dancing in front of the stage.......and having a good time. There are kids asked on stage and they are singing with Southside. I included this picture, because it is the most unexpected show I ever attended. It was Valentine's weekend. We ended up in New Engand to see my son play the trombone sustituting for the dude. I ended up staying with someone I had met from the store to see this show the next day. I didn't have a ticket to a sold out show. And, I was reassured it would be fine. I felt funny being by myself. But, I couldn't be in New England and miss an opportunity to see my son play with the jukes. My son took this picture after the show. I even caught one of five frisbees that was thrown out to audience. It was one of the most magical experiences of my life. But, it was the first show I didn't have anyone next to me I knew. So many times I would miss something, because I didn't want to go by myself. But, now most of the shows I have seen last year, I have gone by myself. And, can't say whether it is getting any easier or not. But, most of all I do know if there is opportunity, I will act on it. On facebook I just saw the song Southside opened up with this week. After watching it, I realized I have to get out soon to see some local music. Seeing a young Bobbie Bandiera and know he plays in Avon on Sundays, Belmar on Mondays and Bradley Beach on Wednsday nights. What am I waiting for? I am sharing this song, because it was about the time my twins were babies. I love the New Orleans influence. What a great song! Quote of the Day: Reach Up and Touch the Sky Song of the Day: Shake Em Down Southside Johnny

Cheers to the Good Ol' Days

I like to write about the past, present and hopes for the future. Who inspires me and why. And, sometimes the cost of an experience. But, usually in all of my experiences, it is the serendipity of the moment that capture my heart. I have had many moments this year. Mostly, running into really meaningful people in my life at unexpected times. Most days I just shake my head thinking, I really needed to see that person. Yesterday, was like that, but thrown in the middle was an experience I forgot about. It was ridiculous. But, I forgot how hard it is to get a Springsteen ticket. In the old days it took up your time, because you waited in person in lines. And, this experience was shared with me over and over again, when I had my store, Greetings from Geralyn in Convention Hall in New Jersey. Then I would hear how many times fans had seen Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Then I started asking questions, expecially for anyone who attended in the pit. Then in 2012 I was lucky enough to make an effort, shell out the money, and scored four GA tickets. Well my friends, those days are over!!! Seriously, what a shame. I am not saying I won't try again. But, for the same reason, I did not see Springsteen on Broadway. This tour isn't any different. I did get a code, but it is for next week. I am on vacation, but I have been asked to attend a meeting for work.......AT the VERY SAME TIME! And, for the next four years work world still rules my priorities. I wouldn't have the money to buy this ticket, if it wasn't for work. So, all that comes to mind is the words from Bruce Springsteen Badlands: Quote of the Day: "Working in the field till you get your back burned Working 'neath the wheels till you get your facts learned Baby, I got my facts learned real good right now You better get it straight, darling Poor man wanna be rich, rich man wanna be king And a king ain't satisfied till he rules everything I wanna go out tonight, I wanna find out what I got" I don't want to be king. I don't want to work all week for the price of a ticket. I just want to hear thousands of people yell these words back to the Artist who wrote them. I don't want to be in credit card debt, I just wanna have some fun and see kindred spirits who want to do the the same. I have a code for next week......wooopee!!! But, I know how I like to spend my time and it is not in quere on a computer that says I have 2,000 plus people in front of me who want to buy a ticket. I hope my friends on facebook do score tickets, and I look forward to seeing their experiences, because I know how precious they are. Sharing my favorite song, that changed my life. And, it is my favorite to not even sing, but to yell at the top of my lungs. Especially, when driving alone in my car. Song of the Day: Badlands by Bruce Springsteen

Be True

Well, if I am going to write about someone today, it should be who is heavy on my mind. I am in the position for the first time in my life to go anywhere I want to see Bruce Springsteen. I can't wait until 2023. I shared the opportunity on facebook to get a picture with him at Freehold Barnes and Noble. And, ended up missing the opportunity, because of priorities. Same, thing today when the tickets go on sale for his new tour. But, again reality versus what might happen is always most important. I am going to write about one of the best opportunities I had to have a voice as a fan of Bruce. But, first I have to say my favorite part of having a store in Convention Hall in Asbury Park, was meeting his fans. Keeping up with them on facebook is such a treat. I loved seeing all of their pictures from the book tour. So many of them, still keep that picture as their profile picture. But, I was picked to wish Bruce a three minute Happy Birthday on E Street Radio. It played at 4am in the morning. So, no one heard it. Well, except my best friend, said she her brother heard it. It was such a thrill. Someday I would like to be the Boss, where you can pick five songs and tell stories. I am so glad I didn't do that when I had the opportunity. It would be so much better now, since I feel like I am the boss of my life for the first time. More Bruce stories to come. Each day, I will write why I admire him as an Artist over everthing, for the next week. Quote of the Day: Walk tall.....or don't walk at all Song of the Day: Be True: Bruce Springsteen

Inspired from Within

When I blog I always have to have a picture to go with the post. As I am ending my 30 day writing this week. I started to feel less and less needy to write each morning. Probably, because I am in the beginning of buying a house. So, I have a big to do list, and can't wait to say Ta-Dah!!!! Usually, I would be afraid of writing about it and jinxing it. But, I have found the best way to write now, is to write from my heart. And, my heart and soul is always brought into the home I live in. It has been really hard to do this while I am renting. One of the things I am most proud of is the houses I made into homes. Most houses took more years to remodel or rebuild, then being in the complete stage. It seemed most of our homes had to be sold or rented, when we finally completed everything. Our last home since we downsized, we really just moved in and didn't do much. The last few years I loved creating a patio space. The place I am buying isn't what I would call my dream home. But, it will be mine, to do whatever I want with. And, most of all I want it to have a story book feel to it. Because, I feel when you have a home, it should tell your story. And, I want to leave a good story behind of the fairy tale life I lived. Of course, when I write about my life I sugar coat it. Because, I feel I don't want to remember the bad things. And, I don't want the reader to feel anxious or sorrow or bad about what they are reading. (and neither do I want to feel that when I am writing about it). I just read the words make believe and it really got me thinking. Make believe is fantasy. But, actually it is my belief system. Like "Make It Happen". Or if I believe in something, I am going to make it happen. So my new mantra is MAKE BELIEVE! The above picture is part of a wall of my daughters, when she was making a home. It includes a picture she found from a textile design class. It was a vest and this was the scene I made. It was gouche and resist. I look back and I didn't really like the design. I never had seen buffalo or bison in person before. I think I saw a picture from a magazine, and then painted the image for the design. Never, did I ever think that the next year we would travel cross country. We visited Yellowstone and many other parks, where we got very close up to these amazing creatures. But, I tend to think what I have paid attention to in my creating has come true for me. And, this part of my life, I want to share. Because, I think when you really value your belief system. You can make your dreams come true.

Storybook Home

Lots and lots of inspiration all around me. This picture is from Barcelona (pretty sure). But, anyway I have been thinking and acting on my future home. Won't share until it is a done deal. But, my head is spinning with how I will be decorating etc. The night before I was looking up storybook decor, and not much was coming up except pictures in pinterest. One of my favorite artists is holding an artist challenge. I really wanted to participate, but I have so much going on it wasn't really possible. The challenge was to draw, paint, collage etc. a cup inspired by a list of female artists. I would like to do this in the future. But, I was in the mood to be inspired. So, the artist I decided to research was Maud Lewis and I have been obseessed with her all day. I bought the movie "Maudie" in Itunes. I watched the beginning in the morning and finished it last night. She was an amazing women with a hard life. She was born and raised in Nova Scotia Canada. Her life was documented in a documentary during the 60's and she died in 1970. She painted Christmas cards and charged a nickel a piece. Then she painted fishing boards for $5. From what I am reading one of her paintings sold for $17,000 in 2017. But, this movie "Maudie" came out in 2017 and I guess a lot people watched it during covid, because her latest painting fetched $65,000! But, most of all I am charmed by the cottage she lived in and painted in her "folk" style. Then I saw my daughter's website of what she has been working on. And, I was blown away, by her style being more and more of "folk" style inspired by nature. It feels so good to look forward to the future. Anyway, the picture I shared was because, I have always been interested in shrines. Especially, ones devoted to the Virgin Mary. And, I don't know what I am creating next. But, it will be mostly about some kind of art involving memories, prayer and some sort of shrine. I did a few boxes for my mom, which held her rosaries and prayer books. Quote of the Day: "As long as I have a brush in front of me, I am happy" Maud Lewis Trailer from the movie: "Maudie"

Finding Our Voice

Spending thirty days writing about who and what inspires me, has helped me find my voice. There was a day after a conversation with someone, I was ready to not open my computer to do my morning scroll. I wasn't going to write, either. It just didn't feel right. After a few hours I started to post about one of my friends on facebook. This also was right after our last rise and write class. What happended after that was amazing. The person I was writing about was commenting on a picture I took at the same time. She wanted to call me to talk to me. It was enlightening to me how I have been inspiring others. So, onward I go in continuing my quest to find my voice. I also was going to stop taking so many pictures. But, I can't fight it.....it is what I do.......oh yeah, it gives me a voice. The arts no matter what it is: music, dance, comedy, plays, movies, photography, painting, poetry, etc. it gives us a chance to express ourselves. So, todays author I am featuring Amanda Gorman who read her poem written for the Inauguration of President Biden. The title of her book reads: An Inaugural Poem for the Country. Our country needs her voice, and she has found it by writing and reciting poetry. I can't think of any poet besides Maya Angelou who has done the same. I liked how Amanda referenced the "The Hill We Climb". Because, no matter what, we all have our own hill to climb. Quote of the day: "When day comes, we step out of the shade. Aflame and unafraid. The new dawn blooms as we free it." Amanda Gorman The Hill We Climb

Gift From The Sea

I am more then half way through my month of writing each day. I am writing about where and who I get inspiration from. This week I am concentrating on my favorite authors and artists. One of my favorite books is Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindburgh. It is one of the only books I pick up from time to time to reread. And, in the different stages of my life it always strikes a chord. I always appreciated how she wrote about her need to be alone with the beach. And, I have felt like this, too. But, being alone, now, I have been lucky to share my beach time with different friends. And, starting the day like this, makes me feel less alone. I still can't believe this year is my introduction to seeing the sunrise. A couple of months has gone by since I saw the last one. And, I forgot how it recharges me. It makes me face the day with such an excitement, it is hard to explain. But, most of all I feel so blessed to have this year by the sea. This morning was a spectacular sunrise. Combined with the beauty and scent of flowers in full bloom, I am counting my blessings.

Opening the Door

Liz and I have been friends since we met as students at Georgian Court University. We both experienced what it was like to let art into our heart. And, we have been experiencing Art exhibitions and sunflower fields together for more then thirty years, now. Whether near or far our lives get pretty busy. But, we have been able to experience and talk about the different stages in our life. And, after every experience we leave inspired, and ready to face life with a new outlook. We talk about what we want to do creatively. Last, year we even had the time to paint together. This year has been the most challenging, since it is the farthest we have ever been from each other. But, we speak on the phone, frequently. And, we did see each other Memorial Day weekend. Last, week I shared lavender ladies in my life, who were the calm in my storm, last year. Liz is the sunflower in my life. Last year she really helped me stand tall and face the sun. She was the closest in location, and was moving at the same time as I. So, I watched her sell the hard things, like her Van Gogh books. It was a time we both needed each other to support one another. And, I am so thankful she and her husband were there for me. POST SCRIPT February 23,2023. 2023 has been amazingly good so far! I spent New Years with Liz as she was up to be with her daughter at Christmas. I went and had dinner with her while I was in Florida. I have been writing in free hand most of my time. And, my writing class has lit me on fire, creatively. Mostly, about inspiration with no action is just a dream. Two people in our group brought a book by Rick Rubins. I will put the name of the book with the quote. I bought it on audible. And, listened to it the night before, when I couldn't sleep. Yesterday, I awoke, and wrote. Then I painted a closet door, decorated a hutch. Arranged my antique seed catalogue and french fashion plates in a frame. (Trying to get everything out of boxes, to be inspired) Posted my first post on social media for the 100 day project. Arranged my french greeting cards and translated a few. (some looked like love letters but, they are Easter cards from a sister). Read more about my dad's ancestors. Collected all my Art Books and Prints of Impressionism. So, they are all in one spot. Made palmeiers (or elephant ears) from Ina Garten's book Barefoot in Paris. All with joy. But, I have to say by the time I drove to game night, I was exhausted. But, the support of friends, some laughs, playing a game of Sky Jo ( I lost) I had a very restful sleep last night. My next post will be a list of ten rules of success from Rick Rubins. It is like he is writing a play by play on my journey to joy and I am LOVING it!!!! He has great life advice. And, has the same philosophy of believing, meditating, and taking action which is very motivating for me. Most of all he believes everyone is an Artist. Which, is what I believe, too!!! But, the greatest part is the no suffering part, and doing things for the joy of it. I am going into Lent season full of positive energy, which is a change. That usually doesn't come to me until celebrating Easter. So, onward! Great article about the book: The Creative Act: The Act of Being by Rick Rubins Rick Rubins is responsible for Hip Hop (not my usual genre of music). But, believe it or not I love this song. I have struggled my whole life with the good rock and roll music brings to the soul. And, it all came with a fight. It was frowned upon in the beginning and brought some lifestyles that could be self destructive at the same time. Rick Rubins actually has some very important notes, which is resonating with me. I question my vulnerability, so much. And, why I want to share it so much? And, I have this Artist within that is SO scared to come out. I am not fighting with it, anymore. I am not suffering with it anymore. This year is about not just being inspired, but taking action. And, this song is my anthem. I don't have to fight with myself anymore. I have every right to let all out!!! You Tube: Beastie Boys: You Gotta Fight for the Right to Party

Another Pleasant Valley Sunday

Here I am taking the steering wheel, and feeling a little more joyful each day. As, I find my way on my journey to joy, I discover ways to help me steer in the right direction. And, lavender fields seem to bring out the best in me. The fields involve all of my senses, and leave me with the calmness and focus I need to face each day. Each day has still been a challenge. But, I am starting to feel more confident in facing the future alone. Because, I am not alone. But, focusing and feeling the beauty of life. It just makes me grateful for the abundance of life within my reach. This lavender field is my favorite, because I know Ellen Karcher (the owner). She came to April Cornell several times. She has twins, too about my children's age. It was so nice to take pictures in the field, make a lavender heart, chat with Ellen, smell the lavender.....But, most of all it was witnessing the children and parents dressed in their best for photographs. Even the rain rolling in couldn't ruin this night. I was excited to see how much it has grown since my last visit. And, I loved hearing the excitement of her store. It is full of all kinds of lavender products. The scones and chocolates are hard for her to keep in stock. So, if you need some calm in your life. Check out Pleasant Valley Lavender in Morganville. It is not too far up the road from Delicious Orchards.

The Magic of Art

As I write this, I take a sip from the Turkey Hill Sweet Tea I bought on my way home from Maryland. I decided to take the long way home. I saw the Turkey Hill Experience at the side of the road. And, decided it was the perfect way to get something to drink and have some ice cream (peanut butter and chocolate yum!) From there it was off to Warwick Furnace Farm. I had no idea what treat was in store for me! When I did get to meet Claire Rosen I was knocked over by her kindness (first of all). Then her hospitality. And, then when she flung open these giant barn doors to these giant mushrooms. I had to catch myself from falling backwards. From there, my mouth dropped open and was in awe. In awe of the vast space and then "her show". Her body of work is astounding. There were about twenty photographs. But, they are so much more then photographs. I think of photographs as capturing a moment. These capture a masterpiece. It is as if she stages a masterpiece and is able to capture a feeling. She makes you feel all the beauty brought upon us in the living world. I still can't explain how all of her work made me feel. And, then be able to talk about it with the Artist. I only have had that experience that a couple times in my lifetime. And, that was with the photographers of Bruce Springsteen. And, ironically words to one of his songs is: "and if I could capture a moment into my hands" from The Promised Land. And, I do feel like photography allows us to do this. I also feel all art does this. And, I think we can create art in everything we do (even retail). Believe it or not. Creativity is a problem solver. It is how we make dreams come true. It is how we set an intention and make it happen. I am still breathing in all that I witnessed. And, thankfully Claire Rosen wrote a book. So far, it is becoming my field book for my future. It is putting words a feeling I have. It is how I will be approaching my future. And, that is with the magical feeling of wanting to create something to leave behind. Something that expresses a voice to my life. Not, just scrapbooks, but something when you look at it, you say i am so glad she did that. It may be a book, a painting, a sculpture, a decorated room.....not sure what, yet. Because, life is a journey and a mystery at the same time. NO ONE knows how their story is going to end. But, hopefully we all will live, happily ever after. Quote from Imaginarium by Claire Rosen Art is a reminder of who we really are....or perhaps who we ought to be. And, life is what we find when we slow down and allow the beauty to envelop us. When we embrace what is right in front of us and believe it's worth our attention. But, in order to do this, inorder to find the life we all want, we must be stopped, thwarted from our petty pursuits and led down a nobler path. Jeff Goins "The Wonderful Ache of Beauty (Why We Need Art)"

Atwater Designs

I have been following Sarah of Atwater Designs for a few months on instagram. I have always been interested in cynotype. Especially, since it was a woman who first discovered the process and published the first photography book about it. Her name was Anna Atkins. Anna Atkins. Sarah has a beautiful website. Sometimes, when I travel back and forth to my daughter in Maryland, I love to make a stop. I am still waking up each morning thinking about the enchantment of Warwick Furnace Farms. Sarah had a Artist Residency there last week when I visited. She was very welcoming to me, so I could see what she was working on during the week. She had a huge work on the table, that was to be photographed that night. She will be exhibiting the work in September. I am marking my calender to go back. I can't wait. This place is so magical, it is amazing it is only a couple of hours away. I am pretty sure it coincides with when I babysit again in Maryland, too. You can find Sarah's website here. This quote struck me as I was googling cynotype, an artist shared this quote: "Follow your bliss. If you do follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while waiting for you, and the life you ought to be living is the one you are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in the field of your bliss, and they open the doors to you. I say, follow your bliss and don’t be afraid, and doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be." Joseph Campbell There were these large barn doors. And, Sarah opened the first door to where she was working. But, then she pushed open the huge doors to Claire Rosin's studio. I gasped......it was as if I was looking into a dream. I couldn't even take a picture, because I felt like an intruder. Sarah, kept saying as I kept gawking..."you have to meet Claire." And, I did...and I will write about that tommorow.

Greetings from Warwick Furnace Farm

The store at Warwick Furnace Lavender Farm did not disappoint. I have to admit it is usually my favorite part of a lavender farm. I love picking out something to take home and treasure. The cute little postcard mailing depot was well thought out, including stamps for mailing. There were picnic tables overlooking the hills of lavender. What better place to sit and write a postcard to a loved one. I was also treated to a lavender spray mist on my face, to cool me off. After a walk up the hill, it was welcomed. Summer was always about the beach for me. But, in the last ten years or so, I have been impressed by all the flower farms flourishing. New Jersey is called the garden state. I hope to visit a few more during this season.

Warwick Furnace Farm

It is lavender season! I try to get down to Maryland as much as possible to see my daughter and family. I was lucky enough to get three days off in a row. So, I knew I would take the long way home. So, I was looking around the route home for a lavender farm. It was so nice to get off of Route 95 and travel the Lancaster area. I could have done without all the guns for sale and fireworks signs. But, to see the occasional horse and buggy, and with a stop at Turkey Hill Experience, I was on my way to a nice day. But, the experience became dream like. It was as if I stepped into a page of Little Women in the twenty first century. The story of the farm is the parents of the four daughters were downsizing from living in Manhatten. And, they ended up buying this property only a few years ago. Warwick Furnace Farm is astounding. Thinking it like the lavender fields in Provence. It is by appointment only. And, I was treated to the utmost attention. I was able to ask questions and was amazed at the answers. I knew of french and english lavender and always wondered if there was american lavender. There is! It is grown in Pennsylvania. I did take home a bottle of the american essential oil. They do grow all three on the farm. I was able to sit, and look at the fields. And, take my pictures with quotes. Each day this week I will take you on a journey of this slice of heaven in Pennsylvania. I am starting with the fields which you are only able to see by walking up a hill. I hope to be able to paint there, some day. It probably is the most inspirational place I have ever seen in my life. Except, for the ocean. But, the ocean lately, has become stressful for me. Too much, to talk about that, now. But, a lavender field on top of a hill, with the only building in sight is a farm. And, not a sound of a highway nearby. And, the smell of lavender through out the air. It is heavenly.

Star Light Star Bright

My favorite lavender lady is my daughter, Kaylyn. Last year I spent Independence day weekend with her. Her family has a big barn with a big family gathering for a pot luck, games and fireworks. We went to get our nails done and this lavender farm nearby popped up. It was fun to discover this magical place together. The barn store was a huge old barn. It was dark and a cool relief from the hot summer sun. It was the first place I bought lavender seltzer water. We sat in the gardens for a little slice of peace and tranquility. The name of this lavender farm is Star Bright Farms. It is the perfect place to unwind before lively festivities. I am so thankful for the months before I started back to work last year. The time I was able to spend with family and friends was necessary to get me to where I am today.

Day two July 2022

Day two of July 2022 The Saturday Night of Independence day weekend A storm rolls in and shows and fireworks are canceled Looking out the window I see the end of a rainbow As I step out for my walk to a patriotic show I look down and see a snail

At the age of sixty two I realize this is the first snail I have ever seen This walk, this life, it is like a fairy tale

There are lilies, roses and lavender all in full bloom and the scent of flowers are everywhere There is a row of hydrangeas with droplets of rain on each of it’s leaves

Most of the porches and even along the streets red white and blue flags line my way

I sit down to hear the band joined by a friend and making a new one

I end up on a porch enjoying key lime pie

This new life of mine I am truly blessed

Peace, Love and Lavender

Peace Valley Lavender Farm is located outside of Philadelphia in Doylestown. My forever friend Laura took me there. She was supportive of me when I was having a hard time after high school. I was regreting not going to college. And, she made an appointment with the dean of Bloomsburg University, and a few months later I was a student there. She was a special ed major along with her now husband. They took me in for two weekends last year. She is in her fourth year battling brain cancer. He is taking the best care of her. And, some of my best laughs came last year talking about the good ol' years. She took me to her favorite spot. Peter's Valley includes a lake, she and her husband would park, just to look down at the beautiful scene. The lavender farm was nearby. I love the peacefullness and scent of the lavender farms. I also love the power and stregnth a little time there can give me. There is something about being very close to bees and not being afraid. I would hear the hum of the bees, and think about not getting too close. But, in the end I would know, they are just so happy in the lavender plants, they are not going to bother with me.

Keep Calm and Lavender On

This picture was taken about this time last year. I was able to visit three lavender fields last summer. And, each one was exactly what I needed. This is my friend Janeen. She was my bridesmaid forty years ago. She really did a good job standing by my side all of these years. Especially, the most turbulent one last year. She, has that sense of texting me at the exact time. And, knowing it was a time I really needed a friend to listen to me. We had a lovely day at Orchard View Lavender farm here in Port Murray New Jersey. The most memorable part of this farm was the lavender ice cream. I highly recommend getting to a lavender field in the next few weeks. It is a good season and with the favorable weather, it may be a little longer this year. I love the drives through country roads to get to each farm, too. A great way to spend a summer day!