See that tiny reflection…in that miniscule drop of water….a part of the condensation on a huge mirror that reflects my entire image most days? This image just jumped at me as I was perusing shots to use in this, my own page, where I hope to be able to share some things about me. I hope these things will resonate, inspire or even entertain some of you a bit. At the very least you will know a little more about me after you have finished your visit.
I chose the above shot because it seems to epitomize my frame of reference for myself most of the time-a small reflection in the endless pool of existence, nearly undetectable and all too often unheard and unseen. But, like this tiny drop, all it takes is someone to notice its beauty, its value and its dedication to being a part of the whole, to make it real. If only Love is real, then I love this water drop.
I am an artist as well as a writer. Any means of self expression is pure gold for a crab like me. Yep, I am a Cancer, through and through. Ethereal, obstinate, hopeful, romantic, dependable, loyal, and steadfast. And I loathe change. So what else could I do but fall in love with a Virgo? My husband is a wanderer, dreamer and seeker of adventure and change. Hence my subsequent life in Costa Rica, far from my “home” of Louisiana; but I am happy to report I neither died nor suffered from the glorious experience there. I plan to get back to it as soon as life permits. Suffice it to say that often we would make a better salad dressing than a couple. But that’s not really true either. You see, I have discovered in my search for truths, that we are in error if we believe that we will find a “perfect match” in a mate; for that implies that we all have the same idea of what we want, what we see in the world and ourselves, and what we perceive as true love. I would love to hear any other thoughts on the idea of love, romance and “happily ever after” if anyone would like to share!
BTW, I love to cook. More importantly, to bake. The very word makes me want to whip out flour, sugar, butter and spices, bringing heavenly smells into the house and huge smiles to the faces of all the people I love. I designed cakes for awhile which was great fun; but with a history of writing in charts, needlework projects, etc., I developed Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and had to give something up. No, not art.
Oh, but I still bake. I recently made these Fresh Cherry Scones. I love cherry season! They cost a fortune down here but I splurge so we can have treats like this-that is, if I can get some before my husband gobbles them up. He loves fresh fruit. This is one reason Costa Rica was so heavenly. Fresh fruit literally for the picking there. I found some yummy ways to use Carambola, or Star Fruit, which so many people just leave to waste upon the ground. I made some great empanadas that actually were reminiscent of peach pies. Yum! They are very rich in vitamin C too.
I did this piece for a dear friend of mine. Most of my art is unique and I am no good at replication. I have to be inspired, infected and possessed before I produce something that I feel great about.
Of course an afternoon of partying with a case of beer and these guys could inspire a person!
There is so much beauty here in my home state of Louisiana; and visiting Plantation homes has always been a secret thrill for me. Our favorite has always been the Oakley house in St. Francisville; but when my sons came to visit two years ago, we took a look at a few others. This one was marvelous. The Houmas House in Ascension Parish has lovely grounds, was used in the filming of Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte, and has marvelous food at the restaurant. We enjoyed lunch while there-some of the best seafood I have had in recent years.
And my newest passion-jewelry design. I have been toying with this craft for a few years, selling pieces among friends and family, but have decided to branch out. I am hoping to have a page set up for viewing and purchasing online very soon. These necklaces were made with seashells from Costa Rica-a lot of happy memories are in them!
The one on the left is my husband’s favorite piece-it came from my heart. It was done with all natural papers. The only paint is on the faces, hands and the background. I hope to someday visit the Our Lady of Guadalupe shrine in Mexico City for this particular Virgin has spoken to my soul and made a huge impact on my view of my life. The s one on the right I call Tree of Life.
So, I’ll say goodbye for now. This was a great vantage point for viewing the ocean. If only we could sail through life in such a glorious way! If you haven’t considered photography before, I recommend it highly. You will begin to see things you never even noticed before, and if you already take photos, I look forward to seeing them. Drop in and leave me your blog or site info so I can visit. Thanks for stopping by!
Until next time,
Be ‘the grandest version of the greatest vision you ever had for yourselves’! (from Conversations with God-love you Neal Donald Walsch!)
Pura Vida,
Cheryl
Tropical Affair 
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