Seaside Saturday

I gave myself the best birthday gift I could think of: a day trip to my favorite place, a state park that's right on the Maine Coast, about 44 miles from my home. It was only the second time I was there this summer, which is so depressing I cannot even bear to think about it. But the good news is I had a simply fabulous afternoon! The weather was perfect, the park was not crowded, and I timed it so that I could sit on a rock as the tide came in and just relax and let the water wash away my cares. It worked! It always works! Better for me than meditation or anything else one might suggest for clearing away worries and cobwebs from my brain. Anyway, please enjoy these pictures I took on Wednesday at the Maine Coast. (Click on the first image so you can see them better.)

 

 

Wordless Wednesday: cake day

My birthday ~ August 22nd

Recently, while cleaning out my garage and going through boxes of paper, I came across this photo of me sitting on my mother's lap while riding in a car when I was just a toddler.

[click on photo for a better view]

I thought it was appropriate to post for my birthday. I'm thankful to my mom & dad -- without them, I wouldn't be here! I know they're with me in spirit today and everyday. Love you, Mom & Dad!

Today was a deadline I set for myself. Beginning June 6th, I completely changed my eating habits. I cut out caffeine and desserts, and now fill my plate with lean meats, veggies, and fruit. My goal was to lose 10 lbs. by my birthday, and I'm happy to report I've lost 20 lbs.!

I'm scheduling this post early so I can be out celebrating on the 22nd. May your day be filled with joy and the love of family & friends!

What is a Classic? [Reflections on time passing]

What is a classic? I pondered this recently as I watched the movie Charade with Audrey Hepburn, released in 1963. A classic movie, certainly. And a showcase for Givenchy’s classic clothes. Why classic? Because the style endures. The appeal endures. The connection to the audience endures. When something continues to resonate with people long after it is introduced, that’s a classic.

Some things truly do seem timeless. Take Hepburn herself, for instance. Audrey Hepburn was considered a beauty 50 years ago, and she’s still viewed as a beauty today. She had a certain je ne sais quoi that made her stand out from the crowd. Maybe it was her bone structure – those cheekbones! – maybe her soulful eyes – maybe the way she carried herself. But whatever it was, Audrey Hepburn made people sit up and take notice.

The fashions designed by Hubert de Givenchy for the film were also timeless – all simple lines and understated elegance. I think they could be worn today, minus the hats maybe, although a few daring souls could manage to pull off those pill boxes, I’m sure.

What can timeless pieces – whether they’re cinematic or fashion-related – whatever they may be – what can they teach us? Sometimes less really is more, and simplicity tends to be pleasing long after embellished items have lost their luster. True good looks last, as does a good story line, an appealing performance (even if the dialogue is laughable today), a chic outfit. And with people, innate intelligence and style are always attractive.

I guess I may be pondering the idea of timelessness, of classics, because I am turning another year older today. I’m thinking about the passage of time as people so often do as they mark the anniversary of their birth. I think I’ll make it a goal to think of myself as classic. I like that word so much better than older. Not a classic beauty, perhaps. Not a great intellectual. But someone who strives to get better with time – and also feels better about herself with each passing year. Someone who endures all things life tosses at her and goes on having the time of her life.

My special birthday present

For my birthday on the 22nd, my good friend Silke generously created a painting for me! How fun is that! I just love it (or "her," which is how I think of this beauty) and have her proudly displayed in my living room.

Silke talks about how she did this painting on her blog, so if you'd like to read all the details, please do visit Metamorphosis.

I've never had anyone paint something for me before, so this is a very special gift. Thank you, Silke! You are a special friend!

It's my birthday, & I'll say Hi if I want to!

I'm out celebrating! But I scheduled this post ahead of time to say hello to those of you who have stopped by my blog today. Have a fabulous Saturday!

August 13, 2009

Happy Birthday to my good friend Silke! Hope you have a fabulous day!

Why not stop by her blog to give Silke your best wishes?