I am a writer, poet, community volunteer, pupil of psychology, writing instructor, guest speaker, artist, lover of nature, curious traveler and author of Life Is Full of Sweet Spots, An Exploration of Joy, as well as Dreams of a Wingless Child, a book of award-winning poetry. An advocate of the power of writing as an agent of change, I enjoy speaking to community groups about the joy of making words sing and conduct creative poetry writing workshops for inmates at the State of Connecticut’s York Correctional Institution. As a writer and a painter, I enjoy living along the Connecticut shore, where I infuse everyday observations of the natural world with the sensitivity and insightfulness that tend to define my experience of life. It is these reflections that have helped me realize that one need not look far to find an element of peace, of celebration, of joy, in this inordinate world of which we are all a part.
“In the end, history is about people. It’s about what we do together and what drives us apart. It’s about struggle.” — Jill Lepore promising outlook of more inclusive future politics of joy * * * Historic New England inn preserves heritage of days when colonials met to discuss and hash out differences in ways … More Proud Heritage
“In military contexts, uniforms are more than attire; they are a visual representation of the dedication and sacrifice of those who wear them.” — Abushaikh beyond mere clothing uniform proclaims honor symbol of service * * * When we look at something, it’s not just about what we see, but how we see it, what … More Symbolic Sight
“In the backyard of my childhood home, every tree was a fortress, every bush a hiding spot, and every puddle an ocean to explore.” – Unknown perched high overhead home a castle of remnants birthplace memories * * * Connect with Memories ~ Osprey on nest of sticks and rags is sight to remember and … More Memories
“Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.” — Eleanor Roosevelt stretch way of seeing picture wow of tomorrow see beyond what’s real “ * * Envisioning ~ “This is what I will look like!” says the dusky brown-gray feathered cygnet, swimming beside the beautiful white-feathered adult swan … More Envision
“Live a balanced life – learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day some.” — Robert Fulghum stones stacked in layers symbols of balance and calm stay still and create * * * Commonly associated with spiritual devotion and prayer, the ancient practice of … More Well-Balanced
“In the right light, at the right time, everything is extraordinary.” — Aaron Rose waters black with depth project image of coolness reflection of soul * * * Moody Light ~ Black waters absorb whiteness of ducks ٭ Photo by Jan Logozzo • “Moody Light haiku by Mary O’Connor Conditions of temperature and light project … More Moody Light
“Some memories are unforgettable, remaining ever vivid and heartwarming!” — Joseph B. Wirthlin beautiful and rich vivid hues lively color the stuff of delight * * * Fodder of memories ~ When hydrangeas are at their boldest, enjoy up close and personal • Explore how to put color to work with its shades and hues, … More Vividness
“It’s our challenges and obstacles that give us layers of depth and make us interesting.” — Ellen DeGeneres layer on layer sculpture of gentle edges nature’s creation * * * How often do we go right by the sweet spots of our environment without observing their display of beauty? Being aware is a first step … More Awareness
“Find a space where you can be creative and a place where you are open for free thinking, you want to enjoy what you are doing and do what you are best at.” — David Karp palette of colors creative sanctuary subtle influence * * * Greens and Blues ~ With so many sizes, colors, … More Subtle Influence
“People are most creative when they care about their work and they’re stretching their skills.” — Teresa Amabile stretch the way you see woven basket with pansies wren sees otherwise * * * See beyond the expected ~ Hanging basket of pansies. Nest nestled in folds. Check out “Say Yes! to Your Creative Self” for … More Stretching Exercises
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 