That went well

Photobomb courtesy of Sarah

Valentine's Day saw little trauma. The internet didn't go down. I wasn't interrupted by an unplanned emergency. James and Jacob went food shopping. My husband prepared a lovely dinner and my son assembled and served dessert (I wasn't even allowed in the kitchen). We had a harmonious meal which satisfied both the carnivores and vegetarians in our group. James bought Valentine cards for all and a nice bouquet of flowers graced the table. The perfect amount of effort in a household that tries to maintain a wary relationship with Madison Avenue.
After spending the day mailing out my Valentine greeting trying to remember everyone I could (sorry if I forgot someone important- my imperfections are many) I got some lovely responses to this year's effort. In the afternoon I took a break to attend a rally in support of ending violence against women- something many know too much about.
Now it's back to pressing obligations, work, photography and contemplating what needs to be done next. Another Valentine has come and gone in the life of this artist, mother, wife, sister and friend.

Happy Love Day to You and Yours

After much teeth gnashing and editing and working with my very talented web designer Tim Thayer of Eyebuzz, my Valentine was finished this morning just in the nick of time. I'm not sure exactly why I feel the urge to create a greeting for this holiday every year. Chalk it up to a hope for world peace, harmony and love.

Snowy Hollow

Like many in the Northeast who experienced the blanket of snow Friday's blizzard delivered, we spent our fair share of time shovelling, laying low, and then emerging outside to enjoy the winter landscape.

Sunday, my husband with other dedicated villagers hosted a Winterfest at Rockwood Hall. The junior set (with their elders) turned out in droves to take advantage of the beautiful weather and perfect sled conditions. And me, with my camera, visualized my own kind of Seurat image of cold weather enthusiasts by the river on a snowy day.

Nostalgia

New York City brims with activity and a day there can mean executing a fast paced list of errands and shopping along with a few delicious stops to fuel your momentum. Rushing along the avenue, the sight of a business that harkens back to another time inspires a token of the past in the city that relentlessly pursues the future.

Early February means only one thing

A little more than a week to go and I am busy bringing this year's Valentine to life. The first hurdle is coming up with an idea worth executing. Next comes making it happen- all the while wondering if anyone is going to like it. Anxiety, stress, and excitement- the perfect combination to push me onward. Here's hoping it works.