Once In A Blue Moon

When you hear the saying "Once In A Blue Moon" it usually means an event that only takes place at incredibly rare occasions. It is in reference to an additional forth full moon occurring within a season, as opposed to the normal three full moons in a season. 

While the color of the moon may not actually turn blue, having an extra full moon in a season is somewhat rare. 

If you are in an area where you can see the moon tonight, enjoy it! Go out and do something you would normally only do Once In A Blue Moon.

Pattern Play

I love the idea of organized chaos. The underlaying order that creates structure for seemingly spontaneous elements to merge together. That might be why I have such an appreciation for patterns. 

I remember designing patterns for textiles, I looked at the task as I would a jigsaw puzzle. Designing elements that could be both represented alone, and fit together within a group to form a whole. 

Balance & Unity became my mantra.

Looking in my closet I found the patterns featured above. I was almost amazed at how such different patterns seem to play together so nicely. Similar color pallet, and shape become the unifying factors. 

It is interesting to see the commonalities that emerge in grouping seemingly separate items together. 
I Hope this idea inspires pattern play in your day.

Wanderlust

Wanderlust - a craving for travel. 

 There are so many things learned from traveling. 

The world is a big place with so much to explore. 

Why stop now?

Mind Over Matter

A note of optimistic hope to start off the new week. 
A reminder that physical location is only half the battle. 
It is our thoughts in the end that shape the outlook. 

Take A Walk On The Wild Side

Sometimes you just have to get away from the urban jungle, and take a walk on the wild side.

There is something about getting outside, and discovering natural wonders that refreshes the mind like nothing else.

Unique landmarks are fun to explore.

The element of danger is always lurking. Here is a eastern diamondback rattlesnake that introduced himself. 

Watch your step, it is a long way down.

Lovely bright surprises are around every turn. Here is a brilliant cardinal flower in bloom.

I hope these photos inspire you to take a walk on the wild side, and discover something amazing this weekend.

Thoughts of Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is a great source of motivation. Finding something that fills you with joyful energy can help to accomplish even the most ambitious of goals. However, staying enthusiastic in a world of rough roads can be a challenge. Here are my top five ways to keep a bubble of joyful enthusiasm from bursting.

1. Be optimistic in your thoughts. You are what you think so, make the most of the best, and the least of the worst. 

2. Express gratitude. Actively being grateful for what you have will give you joy. Write a Thank You Note express your gratitude for others, this will help you to have even more to be grateful for.

3. Find patience. Realize not everything in life is instantaneous, as they say "good things come to those who wait". This can be tough, just remember if you are willing to wait out the storm, the sun will return. 


4. Have fun! Okay, not everything in life is fun. Sometimes you have to get creative to find fun aspects in the mundane. However, it is always worth the effort.

5. LOVE. Above all else you must find love in what you do. Passion is a force that will supply endless amounts of enthusiasm, and motivation.

I hope these thoughts help you to find enthusiasm for the week ahead.

Summer Nights

As the sunset lights the sky with its final glow, the warm soft air starts to cool. 

Fireflies begin to glow and take flight, set to the sounds of crickets and cicadas. 

I love summer nights. However, the best part of summer nights is outdoor concerts. 

 Rockabilly powerhouse Marti Brom and the band set the evening off on a high note. 

I would describe the sound as Patsy Cline meets Dick Dale in Memphis. 

One of my favorite songs goes by the name "Voodoo-Voodoo".

During a short intermission I explored some of the grounds. 
Numerous sculptures decorated the garden and lawn. 
The piece to the left is entitled "The Couple" by Eileen Flink. 
On the right is “Gymnast” by Amalia Slater. 

A beautiful thing about the east coast, there are a lot of old mansions.
 I especially like to see them at night. This is the Srathmore mansion built in 1899.

Marti Brom and the band sent us off into the summer night on a sweet melody.

I hope you make an opportunity to get out and enjoy a summer night this weekend.