• Cityscapes/Urban,  coffee shops

    Clouds to the West

    June 15, 2009

     

    Clouds to the West
    Clouds to the West

    I love clouds. And, when you place them against a blue sky it’s time to take out the camera. That’s what happened with this image. I was on my way for a latte at a local coffee shop when I noticed the cloud patterns. I quickly forgot about the latte and turned into a small strip mall driving around to the back side. It has an open field where I thought I if I got down low I may have a chance to get a photo eliminating the houses. It worked. The earth embankment blocked the houses and the sun popped through the clouds to add a bit more to the image. Dusted off my britches and continued on the coffee shop. Sure enjoyed my latte and no one said anything to me about my dirty britches. I love clouds. 🙂

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  • Art,  Art/Design,  lifestyles,  still life

    Gifts from Friends

    December 8, 2008
    Favorite Mugs
    Favorite Mugs

    While making my latte this morning I grabbed one of my favorite cups and thought of my friend Beth. I smiled. Since then she has come to mind throughout the day. I remember our talks, the trip to NYC when her daughter sang at Carnegie Hall, the carriage ride through Central Park, seeing the Phantom of the Opera,  sharing a bottle of wine and the time we watched the fireworks from the top of her moms house. What a gift those experiences are to me. But what really has touched me today is her simple gift of the four coffee mugs. I’ve had them for 5-6 years now. I like them and use them almost everyday. When I’m in a mindful place while making my latte, I think of her and lift up prayers or positive thoughts for her. And, of course I smile!

    I am aware of how family and friends are gifts. They have been there for me and helped me when I needed them. They let me cry with them. They helped me get back on my feet when I was down. They encouraged and supported me. What a gift that is! Yet, today I am thankful for the material gifts they have given me? Those gifts make me smile.

    We are moving into the season of giving and receiving gifts. I know a giving a simple gift to family and friends, such as a card, a letter, a phone call or a mug, will help them in times when we are not able to be there with them. Family and friends can touch our lives even while we are separated by 100’s of miles. What simple gifts will we receive this Christmas season?  And, what gifts will we give? It can make someone smile!

    Thanks, Beth, for the mugs and thanks for all the gifts you have given me! 🙂

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