without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” — John Steinbeck * * * Northern Cardinal, watercolor painting by Mary O’Connor, painted from photo reference by class instructor, Bivenne Harvey Staiger.
For just one minute? I wouldn’t blame you.” “No. And, before you ask, I don’t doubt that the sun will rise in the east, either.” From Downton Abbey discussion between Lord Granthams’s valet, Bates, and head housemaid, Anna. * * * Sunrise over Niantic Bay, photo by Jan Logozzo © 2015
It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.” — Melody Beattie * * * “The Winter Palace”, Saks Fifth Avenue holiday window, Fifth Avenue, New … More “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life.
Or needs to.” — Mark Twain “Everyone has found him or herself in a situation that left them red-faced and wishing the Earth would swallow them whole. Don’t worry; it’s perfectly normal to have at least one embarrassing experience at some point in your life, though many of us have experienced way more than that!” — Unknown … More “Man is the only animal that blushes.
but whether we mean to or not, we’re usually filtering it out! — Ethan Zuckerman Photo by Jan Logozzo © 2015
but what everyone sees is a smiling and calm face.” — Manoj Arora * * * Mama Duck. Watercolor painting by Mary O’Connor, created following participation in classes conducted by fine arts instructor, Bivenne Harvey Staiger. Photo reference by Bivenne.
either admire me from the ground or fly with me, but don’t ever try to cage me.” — Unknown * * * Red shouldered hawk. Photo by Mary O’Connor © 2015
“It’s very important that we re-learn the art of resting and relaxing. Not only does it help prevent the onset of many illnesses that develop through chronic tension and worrying; it allows us to clear our minds, focus, and find creative solutions to problems.” — Thich Nhat Hanh Pine needles and oak leaves float at … More “All that is important comes in quietness and waiting.” — Patrick Lindsay
“It is easily overlooked that what is now called vintage was once brand new.” — Tony Visconti * * * Anyone know anything about “The American”? Photo of this classy red antique auto was taken a couple of years ago at a Fort Lauderdale, Fla. car show. An online search uncovered little about it. Seeing that it starts … More “There’s a vintage which comes with age and experience.” — Jon Bon Jovi
the world’s beauty becomes enough. You don’t need to photograph, paint, or even remember it. It is enough.” — Toni Morrison * * * Connecticut River marsh grasses. Photo by Mary O’Connor © 2015
Life Is Full of Sweet Spots 