Who’s out there?

The Baths

I want everyone to go here.  I wish everyone to experience this beach, this natural beauty of a place on earth.  ”The Baths” is what it’s called on the British Island of Virgin Gorda.  This Island is the third largest of the Virgin Islands.

An unusual geologic formation on a beach is unexpected.  I was so in awe of this place that I had to spend a second day here.  Volcanic origins, as huge granite boulders lie in piles on the beach, forming scenic grottoes that are open to the sea.  You get it all here; caves, turquoise water, granite rocks, snorkel heaven, and a private beach that you can practically have to yourself if you work your way through the caves.  It’s called the Devils Bay.  It was my bay for the day.

Sailing the Virgin Islands

And the Truth shall set you free.

Wilderness

“Wilderness”  12×21  Oil on recycled wood.

Antarctica

Literally going to The Dogs

I’ve been wanting to go the the Virgin Islands ever since my best friend (Anna Schmidt, who is still my best friend) handed over with tan hands a postcard of St. Thomas.  We were only 19 years old at the time.  She and her father had just gotten back from there.  I’ll never forget sitting on her bed (in our college town of Stillwater, Ok) as I held the image of the Islands pristine waters in my hands.  I knew then, at that moment that I would be there one day.  The time is now.

I leave this weekend upon an adventure that I have dreamed of doing for 20 years now.  I will be sailing to the remote Islands of The Dogs.  The Dog Islands are considered the northern gateway to the Virgin’s Gangway or Sir Francis Drake Channel. Managed by the BVI National Park Trust, they consist of the three Seal Dogs, George Dog, West Dog, Great Dog and, of course, little Cockroach Island should be considered a Dog Island also.  I thought these Islands were well suited for me.

THE DOGS

If I reach for the sun, will it help it stay?

Creative Volcano

The creative bug is in full blown eruption throwing ash in all directions.  I picked up some slabs of recycled wood several years ago knowing that one day I would find the perfect idea to use it for.  Today is the day!  They laid in the garage feeling forgotten about but it was farthest from the truth.  I know exactly what I’m going to use it for.  These old pieces of wood will be beautiful again, twice used and pondered at.  They’re in the process of getting their makeover now.

Using my miter saw to cut the structure of the frame.

Placing the screws in the frame.

Nailing the frame to the recycled wood.

A sturdy plank ready to be used for something beautiful, stay tuned!

Cat Love

My dear friend Marta has been the biggest cat lover I’ve ever known.  She has worked at the Animal Shelter for years and has rescued all of her cats.  I don’t know what it is about the cats she chooses but she always seems to bring home the ones that have more dog-like qualities.  I met Marta when I did my dog training apprenticeship in 2004; we’ve been close friends ever since.

I had the privilege to take some photos while I was hanging out with her this weekend.  I wanted to share with you true Cat Love.

Let it snow

When I stepped out this afternoon the dogs had a discussion without me.  Madison, Izzy, Otis and Tuga asked Asia “we are so happy with the love and care your mom gives; what is it that she loves?   We’d like to let her know we appreciate her.”  Asia paused and thought for a moment.  Asia said … “SNOW!  Lately I’ve seen mom at her happiest when we are playing in the snow and hiking around the mountains.”  I came home to what you see in the picture.  Snow in my house!  So sweet.

Washington Coast

Sometimes you don’t luck out with the weather living in Washington State.  Yesterdays weather was a dream come true to spend a winter’s day on the coast.  I did just fine wearing only a vest.  Today…not so much.  Gore-tex was essential at Ocean Shores today.  This is the first time I opened the door to my truck and Asia wasn’t eager to get out due to the wind and rain.