Monday, January 2, 2012

Beautiful Words

My Symphony

To live content with small means.... To seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion.... To be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not rich.... To study hard, think quietly, talk gently, act frankly.... To listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with open heart.... To bear all cheerfully, do all bravely, await occasions, hurry never.... In a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common....
...........this is to be my symphony.

William Henry Channing 

On a recent blog hop, I visited Laura at 52 Flea and was instantly touched by "My Symphony" on her sidebar.  I asked Laura if I could quote this poem on my blog and she was thrilled that it held special meaning to me also.  Laura said she found this poem in her Nana's attic when she was a teenager in an old frame with watercolor morning glories painted on the frame.  Hearing this little story makes me love this poem all the more.

Rita Coolidge once sang to Kris Kristofferson, "words are all I have to take your heart away".  I always loved that line.  I love words.  I love to use them.  I love to write them.  I love when I find pieces that brand themselves upon me.  May beautiful words be music to your ears. 

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Exploration

Happy 2012!!!  Exploration is my word for 2012.  I love it!  I want to explore as much as I can, whether it be art, books, friends, healthy living or life in general.  I am looking forward to a big, bright, beautiful year and I hope it is the same for you!

Tom and I have been snapping some pictures the past few days, on my exploration journey.  Here are some shots from the Arthur G. Marshall Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach, Florida.








This next photo was taken in the equestrian part of my town.  I love going just a few minutes away, yet you feel as if you are miles from home.

I am so excited about all of the possibilities a new year holds.  I love the feeling of newness.  I love the feeling of optimism.  Yes, I'm making resolutions.  I love to make resolutions.  Exploration is on the top of my list!  Happy New Year!!