Happenings during the air I breathe...

Pop?

2011-12-08T17:38:00.002-05:00

I saw my grandfather the other day and couldn't take my eyes off of him. It might seem a little silly to anyone that knows me, because they would know that he passed away in 1991. But I saw him. He sat there in the passenger seat of the vehicle while I was in the backseat of the car behind the driver. Up in Pittsburgh last week vising my parents, I was being carted around in the backseat of their car like old times. Looking at the side view of my Dad, with his hair now gray and aged skin like any man at 76, I saw my grandfather. At that moment time stood still. I didn't want to move and sure didn't want my dad to move.

I remember being with my grandfather like it was yesterday. Seeing him show up for church with a mix matched shirt and tie, and always with the same hat that he wore day in and day out. He would work in our garden and talk of having the first red tomato in our town before July 4th every year. He would laugh when we told him he sounded like a time bomb because his pocket watch ticked so loud, though he couldn't hear it himself. He would take my dog fishing and come back with stories of Duke running around grabbing the hot dogs and cheese that people were using as fish bait. He would always say "that dog ate like a king today". lol

So I saw my grandfather the other day. It was so very nice to see him, but it was my dad that made me smile that day. For when he turned around I noticed that he too had mixed matched clothes on. I miss you Pop!

The perfect space....

2011-07-11T12:03:00.002-04:00

Sharp Top Mountain - Elevation 3875

July 6, 2011

It's been ten years since I climbed this mountain. Ten years since we've moved from Virginia after living there a short two and a half years. We left behind these beautiful mountains which fit in perfectly to the views I liked seeing on a daily basis. I remember as a teen driving through the Shenandoah Mountains, Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Mountains and thinking that some day I would live there. At the time, my siblings complained of boredom and being dragged through the mountains by my parents. But I couldn't get enough of the views or the hiking trails. I would be the first on the trail pushing away the spider webs that spanned across the path and loving every minute of it. I was fitting into that perfect space that exhilarated the senses and left me wanting more.

View from Sharp Top Mountain

The summit of Sharp Top has a spectacular 360-degree view of the Peaks of Otter area, with the Piedmont to the East, the Shenandoah Valley and the Allegheny Valley Mountains to the west. Looking out I couldn't help but miss this beautiful state and was glad I was able to be back for a glimpse of the beauty. This year we left visiting our hometown of Pittsburgh and hiked, camped and drove the Blue Ridge Parkway through Virginia. Last year we tackled the mountain trails of the Blue Ridge in North Carolina. But it was at this mountain peak that had me breathing in, quenching that thirst.

As I took one last look before descending down the trail, I noticed that my smile was still intact and felt lucky once again to be here experiencing what I love to do. Heading back down and eventually toward the mountains of Georgia, that young girl inside of me kept thinking that maybe someday I'll live there.... again. :)

Bunny track

2011-07-04T08:14:00.000-04:00

Being back in Pittsburgh feels great with the 65 degree morning weather and no humidity to be found. What a difference from last week when we were smoldering in the sun at 100 degrees and spf lotion that was applied hourly still gave us burning skin. The breeze seems to be consistent and I almost feel as if moving back could be an option. :)
As I get up each morning to walk/run on the nearby track, I see each day little bunny rabbits. I have forgotten just how many there are up here! They stand there on the side of the track with their white tail just watching as I buzz by. Again and again around the track I go. Again and again they stare. Their cuteness reminded me of why, long ago as a teen, I wanted a rabbit as a pet. All these years later I still have pet rabbits. :)
With the alarm set for 7:15, I'm up and raring to go. With a little breakfast, a little music, I'm off to walk in the cool weather to check out the bunny track. :)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

106 miles, 7 days, 1 great time :)

2011-06-27T11:03:00.003-04:00

"Men may dam it and say that they have made a lake, but it will still be a river. It will keep its nature and bide its time, like a caged animal alert for the slightest opening. In time, it will have its way; the dam, like the ancient cliffs, will be carried away piecemeal in the currents." — (Wendell Berry)

Another Paddle Georgia has come and gone. Clothes are cleaned, tent dried out and mud scrubbed from the boats. This year was no exception to the fun that we have had over past paddle years. There are many stories from this trip and many friends made. It is a time when all you have is a tent, boat, backpack and a comb. When worrying about appearances seems a lifetime away with makeup and hairdriers left at home. But, all seem to be magically pleased when smiles form on our faces as they take a peek in a mirror.

Athens to Dublin Georgia. We paddled 12 miles on Middle Oconee River, 6 miles on Lake Oconee and 88 miles on Oconee River. We passed many sites and many creatures. With all the rain that had occurred the previous week, the river cooperated and less scooting was required. Along the way I pulled over, climbed the hill, and visited the State Botanical Garden for about an hour. The gardens were beautiful and the air condintioned conservatory was a brief relief from the 100 degree temperatures.

We swam the hot temperatures away and It's no wonder that we were always on the last shuttle at the end of the day. The same people would be on that shuttle every night. They were the ones that knew how to make paddling a good time with all the side fun along the way. With 300+ people on this trip, we had all kinds of paddlers. There were the racers, whose mission was to get down the river as soon as possible. What exactly did they do the rest of the day in the scorching heat? There were the families with little kids whose tempers rose with the temperatures. The teens who sang along the river and annoyed the elders with their rhyming songs. The pirates, whose mission was to make sure everyone was wet from their soaking guns. I'm sure all had a great time along the way, but that last bus of people each night still had the most energy. :)

We swam with gar, gators, snakes and turtles. I only screamed once when a water moccasin was sitting next to me in the water. I didn't wait to introduce myself and sped away. The alligator was cool and saw him eat a fish before I left. Made me realize that with the abundant of fish in the water, they sure wouldn't want to munch on a Woodstock girl. Would they? :)

We paddled past the Avant Mine & kaolin mine. Kaolin is considered one of Georgia's largest natural resource. Eight million tons are mined each year and it's all found at the edge of the fall line in the Coastal Plain. It is a white clay that is used to coat paper, make toilets, paint and even drugs. It was all along the hillside near our take-out one day.

The Kaolin felt good in our hands when we wet it with water. Sort of like sticky but hard play dough. We had fun painting it on us which the kids called war paint.

At one point the cool crisp water was full of mussels. These filter feeders were found around the shallow rock places in the water. They are seen as essential indicators of water quality. It was neat seeing live ones and picking up the beautiful shells from dead ones to bring home.

What is it that draws me to water time and time again? Is it the challenge, the beauty that I see, or just the thrill of the adventure? Is it the demanding desire to know what lay around each bend of the river? From as far back as I remember as a child, I felt great being in and on the water. I had one paddler ask me if I had gills because I was in the water so much. The attraction is definitely there with a respect for the water and all it entails, combined with a love of it that can't be explained. So far, just with Paddle Georgia trips, I racked up over 700 miles. Enough miles one way to my hometown of Pittsburgh. :)

Next year is set for the Altamaha River in South Georgia that flows eastward for 137 miles. The upper tributaries are the Ocmulgee and Oconee Rivers. Both of which we paddled. This trip will be located what I like to call below the gnat line and wonder just how many people will attempt it. lol
For now, I will continue to paddle the rivers and lakes close to me and maybe get another safety class under my belt. Let the adventures continue. :)

Alligators, storms and meltdown

2011-06-24T08:56:00.000-04:00

"Choosing to save a river is more an act of passion than a careful calculation. You make the choice because the river has touched your life in an intimate and irreversible way. " - Davis Boling

We have 85 miles behind us as of today. Miles that have given me the pleasure of seeing this great river. With the cypress trees and spanish moss, and reptiles, this river comes alive. Today I came upon a small alligator. Probably 4 foot or so. It was in this strainer in the picture. I was surprised that I could get close enough to take a picture without him ducking under. After about five minutes I was ready to leave but not before he guzzled down a fish that popped out of no where. It was very cool. I swam in this river today as we continue to go south to gator country. With the heat as it is, we take our chances. After the gator sighting, I waited till I went a mile or two before I slipped back in the water. No problem there :)
Next came the storms. We had 20 miles to paddle today. At mile 11 a storm was brewing. The sky went black and lighting had started. We got off the water, got prepared, and waited. It ended up breaking apart and moving away from us. We then continued on. At mile 17 another storm showed its face. No lighting this time, but sheets of rain. With paddle skirt and raincoat on, I raced down the river the last 3 miles. Pulled in at the takeout and it stopped. No problem there. :)
After staying to help and wait for the last 100 people to get off the water, I finally rode the last shuttle back to camp. Wanting to stay and help usually is good, right? Wrong. Problem here.
My backpack and everything I have got soaked. My clothes, pillow blankets etc. It sat outside while the storm was here and I was on the water. It was soaked terribly. We re out in the middle of no where and I don't even have a dry bed. After trying to get to a dryer with no success, I borrowed 2 blankets from a friend for Dan and I. That didn't stop the meltdown when I got in my tent. Unusual in this setting that I love, but it happened. I can dodge shoals, dams, storms and gators, but it seems that water wanted to show me whose boss.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

65 and counting...

2011-06-22T23:11:00.004-04:00

"A river is more than an amenity---it is a treasure that offers a necessity of life that must be rationed among those that have the power over it. "

So far I have paddled 65 miles of my journey down the Oconee river. Two more days and 41 miles.
Today we had a lot of strainers and snags to get around. These trees cause chaos on the river and can be dangerous. Dodging the strainers takes effort and time. Another long day and exhaustion is setting in for the night. Alarm set for 6 to pack up camp and be on our way.
Today we saw a landowner cutting down trees on his property. He did not leave a buffer zone of 25 ft. We checked it out, took pictures, and had someone look to see if a permit was made. It was not. The owner will most likely be fined and will need to restore. Without a buffer zone, the land will continue to erode to our water. These trips are for awareness of our rivers and how they need to be protected. We need our water resources to be here for a long time!

My kayak in this photo was sitting on a sandbar while I ate lunch and swam.
Side note - an alligator was spotted. :)

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Mad river

2011-06-21T22:47:00.000-04:00

"It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step on to the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept of to. " (Bilbo to Frodo) - J R R Tolkien

The river today was absolutely gorgeous. It was clear, cool and glistening. I set off in the morning with the lead boat to get to Buzzard Island Dam early at 7:30 so as to get ready for another portage. It all went very smoothly as the boats were lined done the shoot while the people walked down. My boat actually went down twice and pulled up once. I was set at the bottom and then needed at the top. It worked out well and all 300 boats passed thru by 1:30. This picture is from the bottom of the Dam structure. The boat is a solo wish list boat for myself :)
I swam for a long while once again in the cool water. I saw two otters on the bank in the early morning, fish, herons and many other birds. It was a great day. :)
We have 3 days left to complete the 106 mile trip. Tomorrow we will paddle another 15. Four down and three to go. Its going too fast. :)

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Lake Oconee

2011-06-20T23:19:00.000-04:00

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page. " - St Augustine

It was 100 degrees today here in GA. We paddled 6 miles on the river and spilled into Lake Oconee for another 6 miles. I spent a lot of the time in the water cooling off while holding onto the painters line so I wouldn't lose the kayak.
We found a 4ft gar that was floating in the water with a hook in his mouth. Some guy pulled it out of the water to look at its teeth! Yikes! I took pictures with my camera before he tossed it back in. Unbelievable that we were swimming in the water with those fish! They were literally jumping all around us. In a couple of days we could see the alligators that hang out below the fault line.

We moved camp today to Milledgeville. Getting up early to pack, we finished by 8 and was on the water. We got on the last shuttle again at night and just made the dinner being served at 6:30. Long days but fun days :)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Friend for the day :)

2011-06-19T22:20:00.000-04:00

"The river is a promise of things to come, a ribbon of hope shining in the sun. The river is life for the great and small" -Walkin' Jim Stoltz

Day 2 on the Oconee and what a nice day it was as I had a new friend that paddled with me. :). Sitting at the dam and waiting for all the people to portage around, I was getting a little bored. That is until someone handed me this little turtle. What fun I had watching it crawl all around my boat. At one point I had it in my pfd pocket when I had to pull my boat out. It was a tiny little thing with a great pattern on the shell and great color. All the young kids were excited to see one that small. After paddling down the river the 15 miles, I gave it to a young girl who put it back in the water. :)
Dan and I had a great day paddling together and swimming outside our boat. We were on the water at 7:30 and off at 5:30. It was a long, but fun day. :)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Noooooo!

2011-06-18T23:02:00.000-04:00

"The past does not repeat itself, but it rhymes. " - Mark Twain-

Getting on the water at 7am and directing the safety boaters was easy. Getting myself ready and positioned on the last big shoal was just the same. What happened next still makes me want to yell nooooo from the top of my lungs. My paddle decided to crunch between two rocks as I perched myself on a rock waiting for the 300+ paddlers. Anyone that has a lightweight carbon\carbon paddle knows what a great friend it can be. As I looked at my paddle, day 1 of 7, mile 1 1\2 of 106, I closed my eyes in disbelief and opened to an onslaught of paddlers heading our way. With no time to dwell, the work began. There were deer in headlights people, boats flipping and gear floating as some newbies tried their best to make their way through. As I stood there directing with my paddle and holding the broken blade in sorrow, low and behold, floating by me was half of a kayak paddle! I scooped it up waiting for the owner to claim it. No one did. They must have decided half of a paddle was better than none. Four hours later when all 300 people went through, I set out to paddle the next 10 miles with one borrowed paddle, one broken paddle, and one half of a lost paddle.
I absorbed the lush green scenery, chirping birds and beautiful flowers at the botanical garden that was along the river. Took pictures and talked with friends floating by.
But getting off the water at 5pm, shuttling back to camp, buying a paddle from an outfitter parked at camp that only had one choice of a paddle, I made my way to the lost and found and dumped the lost paddle into the box. I wonder what story the owner of that paddle had to tell about their day.

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

In the beginning

2011-06-17T22:46:00.000-04:00

"There is no moment of delight in any pilgrimage like the beginning of it". -Charles Dudley Warner-

The moment has arrived and Paddle Georgia is here to show itself for the next 7 days. How exciting it is to finally be here. Reuniting with friends one time out of the year to experience yet another beautiful river in Georgia puts smiles on everyone's faces. Arriving in this state 10 years ago, I never thought I would be seeing Georgia quite this way. This week will have us traveling from the Piedmont Plains to the Coastal Plains. The river, its scenery and wildlife will change before our eyes. The beauty of spanish moss draping the cypress trees will come alive later in the week along with alligators peering at the 300 paddlers while wondering who is evading their territory... and why. Birds will sing their river song as the paddle georgia navy swims, play and paddle their way down the river. Not to forget the rope swings and jumping rocks that seem to call everyone's name, beckoning for the joys of youth to sprout from their adult bodies.
I lay here in my tent in anticipation of tomorrow. Dan and I will be ready to hit the water at 7am. We will paddle 12 miles on the Middle Oconee and go through a thicket of rocks and shoals called Ben Burton Shoals during the first few miles. I can't wait. I plan on having a great time. :)

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Paddling into the wild...

2011-06-16T10:49:00.001-04:00

Here we are, the day before we leave to make the 106 mile journey on the Oconee River from Athens to Dublin GA, and I sit here feeling to be quite the lucky one. This will be our 7th year going into the wild enjoying yet another river on one of the 14 different water basins I plan on paddling in Georgia. After next week, I will be halfway there with 7 rivers left to paddle the next 7 years. :)

Setting forth, my kayak, backpack and tent will be my best friend for the next 8 days. I can't think of a better way to see the outdoors. The excitement is mounting on just what lays in store for us. Dan was 11 when we both started this journey and now at almost 18, he is just as excited as that first day 7 years ago.

We will encounter nature at it's best in seeing new sites with new experiences. We start in the Piedmont Plain of Athens and end up in the Coastal Plains down south in Dublin. Passing the fault line (what I like to call the gnat line :), we will see the river change many times. We will be hot, tired and sore by the time we hit the pillow each night, but there will be a smile on my face that will stay there all night. :)

I hope to blog my trip this year instead of writing in a journal book. I just need the cooperation of my blackberry to do that. :)

Leaving it all behind, I start my journey.....

2011-05-16T17:51:00.001-04:00

Nurturing my financial future the easy way. :)
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Shining brightly

2011-05-12T08:45:00.111-04:00

Thousands of words swirling in my head

Volumes more jotted down in books tucked away

Intense in their meaning, barely heard, barely understood

Paralyzed in their state, but on an avenue full of promise

Thousands of words imprinted...

shining brightly in it's own light...in that perfect sphere

swirling...

Watchful eye

2011-04-11T15:19:00.005-04:00

This squirrel seems to be always have an eye on me. I took these photos while gazing out my window instead of working at my desk. :) But sometimes during the day, he's the only one that hangs out with me. On this day he was chewing all the new leaf buds from the tree! I assume those buds are a delicacy this time of year. Now when I see him eating my rose buds like I caught him doing last year, that will be a different story. :)

What's in a snowman?

2011-01-16T09:46:00.001-05:00

How fun does this snowman look? :) With red potatoes eyes, walnut nose and a pretzel smile, I'm pretty sure this snowman has loved standing there waiting for the chance to make everyone that passes by smile back. He has adorned my front yard and definitely had me smiling! I see his friends along my daily walks, scattered here and there in front of homes that took the time to make them come alive. Some had hats, while some kept warm with scarves. Most had "buttons", but never any boots. Some even had arms that seemed to call out for hugs. Each one was different in stature, but each one had a smile from ear to ear. A simple smile.

What is it about a smile that automatically has us smiling back? :)

Magical things

2011-01-05T10:32:00.002-05:00

The universe is full of magical things, patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper. ~Eden Phillpotts~

The month of December now seems like a blur with highs and lows that flew by as time refused to slow to a leisurely pace. I had a much needed visit to Pittsburgh the middle of the month that proved successful. Seeing family and friends was definitely a welcomed site. Hence, it put me way behind with the Christmas shopping, but it also had me moving even faster getting those gifts upon my return! I enjoyed the decorating, wreath making and baking till my home looked and smelled of holiday. Then, I had the lose of my friend the week of Christmas that stopped me in my tracks and forced me to change course. Christmas arrived a few days later with everyone home for the holidays. Though somber in thought, my support foundation of family kept me going with smiles and laughter.

As I sit here looking toward the coming new year, I can't help thinking of the anticipation of what it will bring. The possibilities of change sits on the ledge of any year, but time itself is always up to us to take advantage of. :)

Inception

2010-11-29T08:18:00.000-05:00

I knew in an instant when I looked up at this artwork that it would work. In the little town of Sitka, this totem spoke my name. It was one that I knew would be needed to emerge from my dreams. Big dreams. :)

I started at a young age awaking from those illusive dreams that seem to conquer my nights. Grasping at tidbits during daylight, I knew that in my dreams, life was intact. Feeling the strength of will, knowing the substance of purpose, I embraced it. Although, awakening exhibited reality had also shown completeness.

Nonetheless, reality or dream? Sometimes it's hard to decipher, but I like to think my dreams are always part of my future. Why not?

Needless to say, the totem stayed put. :)

Eclectic

2010-11-05T17:51:00.003-04:00

While walking the busy street of Galway in Ireland, I walked toward a man riding his bike with his dogs tagging along. What stood out to me at first was the man's different look in nature. He was older and very unique in his appearance. He carried a look of knowledge but teetering on bizarre. He had long hair that was matted and tied up in a bun on top of his head. Clothes that resembled mismatched rags with a worn flair that screamed stylish. He had on his shoulder an expensive leather bag that seemed to be dated but stuffed with treasures I suppose. Not quite sure where he fit in, I knew that he caught my eye with his incomparable look. He stopped outside a cafe and propped his old bike against the wall. Out from the leather bag came a black rope that he attached to one on his dogs. And then turning to the other dog, he proceeded to attach the other end. Casually he walked in the cafe, sat down, pulled out a book and waited to order. Huh? Am I missing something?? His dogs stood there and looked at me. What was holding them back from leaving? Did they think they were actually tied to something solid? My thoughts went from "that man IS crazy" to "maybe he really does have something quite right". They seemed content, but alert. Protective of each other or the man? Free to leave...but then, why not just stay? I apparently had the wrong piece missing.

In pursuit of happiness...

2010-10-27T14:38:00.004-04:00

In between the much needed rain yesterday, I went outside to check on the turtles to make sure they weren't in a flooding area. Having found out this past spring that my turtles of 6-8 years were not both females, it has in fact made for an interesting time. I will say they seemed happy of just doing their own thing before maturity set in . But, the days when they each ignored the other have disappeared. Separate food spots, swimming holes or sleeping quarters are now a thing of the past. They play, chase and anything else you can think of to occupy their time. :) As their pursuit of happiness comes to play, I can't help but take pictures while smiling at their journey. :)

Good and Sticky :)

2010-10-20T08:51:00.000-04:00

As everything in life, there are those certain things that just makes me smile. One being, caramel apples! Gone are the days when giving apples at Halloween were the thing to do. Now, it's only those certain few that can enjoy this luxury. So with sticky faces, these apples were devoured while more were requested. Oh, to feel needed because of my caramel apples. lol :)

Void

2010-08-04T08:01:00.001-04:00

And then there was an afterthought. Vividly. As though it mattered in only that split second. Pouring out to compensate the void. Only coming to light when shaken. Vividly. Clearness that shows self. Sharing to save face. Engaging to keep peace. Vividly. Lost in the wake.

Did someone say strawberries? :)

2010-05-11T20:25:00.011-04:00

How I love the sweet smell of strawberries! In fact my first job at 14 was picking strawberries at a farm called Portmans. I think it went 1 for them 2 for me! :)

What is it about this fruit with the zillion seeds attached to it that makes me smile when I see them amongst other fruit? Could it be the green top hat setting upon it that makes the red stand out as appetizing pleasure? lol I will say that I still love eating them. And for that matter, canning them! Last week I put up18 jars of jam. Yum and yum again. :)

Heidelberg

2010-04-16T07:51:00.000-04:00

Tucked in the northern mountains of Georgia off the Appalachian Trail, there is a little German town called Helen. I arrived at this town a couple weeks ago by foot after hiking four miles down the mountain from camp. To my surprise there was a pub called Old Heidelberg.

Having been raised in a little borough called Heidelberg, I found myself heading towards this place. That very sign brought back thoughts of how I made hard choices long ago to get myself out of that little old Heidelberg town. I wanted change and challenges and I had definitely found both, sometimes willingly sometimes not.

But as I walked through the door with a smile on my face, I knew some things don't change when a mere name takes you back to the good ole days. Days and people that I could never forget that left an imprint on my life.

After ordering some red wine and raising my glass to the place, I found my way back to the path and up the mountain. Of course that smile was still there. :)

Transmute

2010-04-07T07:46:00.001-04:00

lend me your eyes

I will change what you see

What we notice

2010-04-05T10:05:00.013-04:00

The perfect egg. Or not? It looks nice in color, shape, and is photogenic. It acquired it's color outside amongst the birds chirping in the trees while surrounded by the warmth of spring air. But looking at the egg at that moment as I grabbed my camera, a chuckle went through my head. What I saw was the caption on the mug. It was dug out of the cupboard to be used for this project and hasn't held liquid in quite awhile. Little does the picture show that those eggs were forgotten on the stove and boiled beyond done. The egg white showed itself as brown instead of bright white. Yes, they burned. Who does that? Didn't even know you COULD do that! Sure we can still dye them, who would know?! As the wire rack sat on the table with eggs, spoons and willing participants, I heard the tea pot whistle. "Waters ready" I exclaimed. Gingerly going inside, I rummaged through my pantry for vinegar. No vinegar?! Ugh Then I spotted the white wine cooking vinegar. Could it work I thought? Who would know!

It was at that moment the chuckle began rising inside of me as I heard "what's that smell?". :)

Morning sunshine :)

2010-03-24T20:50:00.000-04:00

Popping out yesterday from hibernation, one of my turtles blinked as the sunlight danced on her face. How excited I was to see them, knowing they were submerged under ice this winter longer than expected. I smiled at the simplicity of this event but wondered how life looked at that moment through the eyes of a turtle after 4 1/2 months of sleeping. I didn't see any excitement there nor smile, but I assume they were ready to start anew and look for that first taste of spring bugs. Good morning sunshine, welcome back. :)

Fundraising

2010-03-18T10:57:00.002-04:00

http://www.firstgiving.com/carolmcnavish

Dolphin surprise

2010-03-15T08:52:00.009-04:00

Is it just me or my boat logo that seem to attract dolphins, and alligators if your asking. :) Last year I almost capsized as a dolphin caught me by surprise and jumped in the water two inches from the bow of my boat. On this particular day, those mighty creatures once again showed up in all their glory. At first, I saw out of the corner of my eye something large jumping into the water. My thought was, is there someone else out here traipsing through the mango trees on the Great Calusa Blueway in the Gulf like us? But then we saw it. That dark fin sticking out of the water. Shark? For a second,I thought just that. Then to our surprise 2 dolphins circled around us. Now my boat's name is pronounced Flipper, but spelled "Flip-Her" on the decal. Always seemed funny, but not so much at that moment. Hesitant at first, my reluctance vanished as I heard the echo of my voice saying to Dan, "Let's follow them"! Say What?? lol But follow we did until Dan said he had enough. Those dolphins took us out of the mango trees and way out into the gulf. Needless to say, riding the waves while following those dolphins was a highlight of that particular day. :)

Reality

2010-03-13T00:30:00.000-05:00

Love cannot be an elusive dream. We touch it, embrace it, savor it. It is an obtainable reality when one lets it be. Love sits there waiting to be caught. It embraces the soul while lifting the heart to a lightness of freedom. It shows no boundaries. Love exemplifies kindness... illuminates strength.

Fresh and Bright

2010-03-02T09:18:00.008-05:00

Sometimes we wait for the best possible time for decisive moments to arrive, and sometimes we just wait for the snow. :) How I loved this day when all seemed fresh and bright.

I had sat here in the south a couple weeks ago as excitement and pictures flew my way from those back home of more snow than one could ask for. Thoughts of cross country skiing dangled in a bubble above my head while reality and pure jealousy brought it crashing down. But, as the pictures continued, I sensed a change in the air. Could it be...snow...here in Georgia? At the first sight of snow I was out the door catching them on my tongue. By evening and 4 inches later, I was fully garbed in my snow gear feeling exhilarated and throwing snowballs. While sled riding down the back hill and loving the cool blast on my cheeks, I screamed....like a girl. :) Over and over I went down that hill and convinced myself that with patience, some things which seem impossible, actually do happen. It might not be the record snow fall of the north, but snow in Georgia? Of Course!

Moments

2010-02-28T06:40:00.004-05:00

The moments that change us are the moments that define our love. Love that stays deeply rooted and unreachable by others . It is weightless time in a confined space.

Impressed in a place that is yours.....

2009-10-27T13:07:00.002-04:00

Red Top State Park

2009-09-23T17:49:00.006-04:00

I wasn't sure what I would be getting myself into at Red Top State Park the day after Monday's flooding. To my surprise I was still able to hike the one trail that I like. There were two other hikers checking things out just like I was, but other than that it was desolate. The water glistened as it submerged the green grass. Trees had fallen and mud was everywhere on the trail. It wasn't until after I got off the trail did the sun begin to peek out. It felt good. :)

Sun please :)

2009-09-22T08:11:00.016-04:00

I'm sitting here with the urge to run. After being in the house for 3 days because of the torrential rain, I've had enough. With flooding all around and the sun being bashful, it's taken all of my strength to not scream and say "enough already"! Can it be that my vitamin D is so depleted that I've resorted to screaming? Me?
.......Well, after looking at the text I've just written, I think it's about time to venture out. I will take my camera, change out of my fun pink boots and head out to the state park and see what I find. :)

Loving Georgia Rivers ---Paddle Georgia 2009

2009-06-29T21:38:00.018-04:00

Another year of Paddle Georgia has come and gone since that first little blurb of an add in the Sunday paper 5 years ago. It was Dave who found the article, pushed me to go and sent me on my way. I had paddled since the young age of 17 when I bought my canoe and tent with those first summer paychecks, but it was a trip like Paddle Georgia that I wanted to explore. With canoe in tow, this mother/son team set off. Five years later we are still enjoying these excursions. Exploring different rivers in a state that is new to me, I have come to love the rivers of Georgia. Needless to say, we embarked on a journey that has left us thirsting for more.

We have paddled over 500 miles on the Chattahoochee, Etowah, Ocmulgee, Flint, Coosawattee and Oostanaula Rivers with this group. We have witnessed many challenges that the Riverkeepers face and that the public should be aware of. Along the way, friends kept coming back every year with their same gusto, same sense of humor, and that same lack of sunblock. But, they all left more aware of the issues that are put in front of them on the Georgia rivers.
Now, if I can only find a way to do this full time. :)

Georgia Network Blog on Paddle Georgia 09

Phoenix Botanical Gardens

2009-06-09T12:40:00.003-04:00

Grand Canyon

2009-06-04T18:10:00.006-04:00

Here are a some pictures from the past few days at the Grand Canyon. :)

Take it all in

2009-05-27T20:12:00.008-04:00

Looking through the lens of life and past the obvious, I see the beauty. How peculiar that we each visualize differently while looking out. We close our eyes and imagine everything in it's place, but open to a different focus. Searching, for what we feel is needed, can take from what is to be. I looked through the lens on this particular day and saw beyond what is expected.

Spiraling newness

2009-05-06T22:44:00.006-04:00

I was asked today "what's new?" as someone was racing past me. Did they really want to know what's new in my life, in the world or was it just a rhetorical question? My reply? "Nothing." My thoughts were screaming "are you serious? Nothing??" Why is it that I hold back responding while my brain is thinking that the zillion new things going on in my life has me scrounging for something familiar? "Nothing"? On the contrary. My thoughts went directly to my daughter who is graduating this weekend and moving to Phoenix. With that, should I worry about her living close to Mexico and the swine flu threat or is the former Mexico President that is speaking at the Emory Commencement enough of a concern for me? Or does the proximity really matter with this virus? I then blinked and thought of my Dad who just this past weekend was hospitalized because he passed out while driving. Heart condition? Stroke? Tests proved negative, but getting back in that driver seat is something new to really think about. And yet another blink had me thinking of my best friend who is trying to move to California to pursue work. But "nothing"?? Really??? What I should have answered was "did you know that today the art world is stirring up controversy that Van Gogh didn't really cut off his own ear, but his jealous live-in did it?" I think the race would have stopped at that note.

Mixing it up and Feeling Good

2009-04-30T09:25:00.006-04:00

Once again, and old song resurrected the other day on American Idol.
This particular one goes back to the 60's, was written for a musical
and has been sung by many artists. I like this version from Muse and
thought I'd post it here. If anything, you know how I feel. :)

Comfortable silence

2009-04-26T21:51:00.006-04:00

Canoe race

2009-04-23T08:56:00.006-04:00

First and second place this year at the CRBI Waterfest Canoe-a-thon last Saturday. Our son and his girlfriend tried hard to beat these old timers, but something about the tortoise and the hare came to mind all through the race! :)
The 13 miles brought us in at 2 hours 43 minutes!

Coosa River Basin Initiative

2009-04-11T18:06:00.007-04:00

This is the River Race that we've been participating in for the last few years with my canoe. The race is next Saturday the 18th. I'll let you know the results!

Surpassed our fund raising goal of $500 donation to CRBI. Yea! The overall money raised this year at the festival doubled. This supports clean water on our rivers! :)

The perfect sounds

2009-04-06T23:14:00.006-04:00

I would have to say that the sound of rushing water always has me
mesmerized. From scoping out the Natahala River for a possible kayak
run to hiking on the Appalachian Trial, this past weekend left me
breathless and wanting more. Escaping to my passions, I was not disappointed.

Bruschetta di Pomodoro

2009-03-25T08:31:00.016-04:00

Yes, it tasted as good as it looks! I picked these tomatoes at a farm while in Florida last month. There's something about a fresh tomato that seems to zest up anything you make. The smell alone while picking them was enough to have my mind racing with numerous recipes to satisfy that sense! From bruschetta to marinara sauce and everything in between, those tomatoes tasted every bit as good as that first taste while standing in the acres of plants with mud on my heals and a smile on my face. :)

Revealing volumes

2009-03-03T22:53:00.004-05:00

"I believe in your love for me. I believe in my love for you. I believe that every remaining beat of my heart belongs to you, and I believe that when I finally leave this world, my last breath will carry your name." The Gargoyle ~ Andrew Davidson

These lines came from the last book I read and stood out to me instantly as I fell upon them. They reveal volumes while standing on it's own. It's always a nice surprise when something like that happens while engrossed in a story. Almost as if those lines are in bold print highlighted just for you, that make you stop, reread and say... I wish I would have wrote that.

Kayaking to Mound Key Island

2009-02-27T19:55:00.021-05:00

Dan and I went on a kayak trip to Mound Key while in Fort Myers, Florida. The Island is accessible only by boat from the south end of Estero Island. We had a great time at this archaeological site that was framed with mangrove trees. The shell mounds on Mound Key are more than 30 feet above the waters of Estero Bay and the highest point for miles around. It's almost all an artificial creation from 2,000 years of human activity. When the first Indian inhabitants arrived on Mound Key, the fish and shellfish were abundant around the island. As the centuries of fishing and shellfish collecting went by, discarded shells, bone, and pottery piled up! As time went on, the island grew larger and higher. This really was a interesting island to explore. Plus, it was fun because we were the only people on the island that day. Hopefully we'll get back there someday to do more exploring. :)

Perfecting the art of being overlooked

2009-02-26T22:53:00.003-05:00

Hand written with love

2009-01-19T10:09:00.009-05:00

I love a hand written letter. The kind you not only put thoughts into, but all your senses to make it happen. A letter that can be held in your hands and know that the sender also held it. A letter that sometimes holds smudges of ink or stains from tears to have it expressed.

As a teen I stumbled upon such letters that were written by my parents to each other. I kept going back to that pile that was neatly tied and surprisingly stored in the fruit cellar, and read them over and over. I decided then, that somewhere along the way, I would have a neatly tied pile of my own. Hand written with love expressed. Mainly, a letter filled with words written only for me.

As the years went by, I have written many cards instead of buying them preprinted. I have attached pictures along with the text of what I wanted to say with heartfelt love. And I have written many verses that clearly would be good enough for a Hallmark card. Since life has a way of twisting things around, I would say that there could indeed be a neatly tied stack if they were all compiled.

But it's those memories of a hand tied pile of long ago that seem to stand out in my mind. That time when I first fell in love with a hand written letter.

BE a breath of fresh air

2009-01-03T22:35:00.010-05:00

Sometimes, all it takes is a wave to feel like a breath of fresh air just gripped your being. When the acknowledgment shows its face and it's just enough to settle and exhale.
How great is it that this flower, awash and full of life, stands out amongst the decaying leaves of Winter as if waving. It brings new life while prompting smiles at it's mere existence. It radiances BE the breath of fresh air. How can we not love that? :)

2008-12-24T21:35:00.006-05:00

Motionless

2008-12-05T00:05:00.009-05:00

So it goes, pale blue colored
standing afar, lingering
focus made, radiance
stumbling words, humbled stance
heart expressed, coming to life
words melting
intense cry chasing the sound
..."not you, stay there"....

Simplicity

2008-12-04T18:13:00.007-05:00

Back to basics this year in the making of my wreath. Putting aside the ornate one of last year, I chose to make a wreath with what I had on hand. Limbs from a tree and pinecones that were thrown askew outside, I set out on the task. This was the first of my decorations and perfect for what I want to accomplish. Simplicity.

Apple or Pumpkin? :)

2008-11-27T21:51:00.010-05:00

Thanksgiving of childhood years can bring back such fun memories. This year as I was at the hectic part of getting dinner on the table while everything was still hot, I received a text message from my cousin. I haven't spoke with him since the family reunion in July so I took the time to respond. He was at his parent's home with siblings and family also waiting for dinner. All he text was "I'm waiting to see if they're putting me at the adult table or kids table". That's all I needed to laugh hysterically for the memories came flooding back. Every year when we were young, our three related families got together that included us 7 kids. We in turn sat at the kids table separate from the adults and wondered which one of us would be lucky enough to sit with them at "the important adult table" the following year. As our knees grew closer to the card table's top, we thought surely the next year we'd be there. Never happened. We stayed at those small tables until our late teens when all of a sudden our significant others added too many for the occasion and dinner was split and had at three different homes. It wasn't until later in years did we realize that we had the best of the two tables. We had laughter and jokes, teasing, competitions of who could eat the most while balancing the table on our knees, along with conversations like why do we have to choose between apple and pumpkin since we just wanted both! But most of all, we had cousin camaraderie that has lasted over the years. When the line "kids table or adult table?" can be said to any one of my cousins and it produces a smile with laughter , you know we actually were at the important table. Pie anyone? :)

In line...right?

2008-11-19T21:03:00.000-05:00

Stealing my heart with just a glance...

it keeps me trusting. How can it be any better than this?

Towards me, away from me. Breathe into my life... saving me.

Amicalola Falls

2008-11-12T22:51:00.000-05:00

Fall in northern Georgia is beauty sprinkled with the crisp air that I love. Though far from my hometown of Pittsburgh, I've come to enjoy this season in the South. With every turn on this particular day, the trees looked as though they were ablaze. Hiking through this splendor of color was amazing and I was thrilled to be there on one of their peak days. I couldn't decide whether the journey to the Falls was better than the destination of the Falls itself! Isn't that how life is suppose to be anyway? Although...maybe another drive there would help decide. :)

McIntosh Reserve to Franklin County UCR Paddle Trip Oct 24-26, 2008

2008-10-30T09:28:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite trips every year that Dan and I take. The cool crisp air along with the many shoals throughout this section, make for a great weekend of paddling. We began at McIntosh Reserve campground and 20 miles later concluded in Franklin County. At one point, I paddled off to a different section around an island and saw two eagles flying above. The contrast of the birds against the blue sky was amazing.
Looking forward to other days on the water. :)

Roar of Silence

2008-10-20T21:57:00.000-04:00

Moments stand still. Every turn in view shows the dream...speaking the thoughts produce a smile, but in defeat the roar of silence plays forth. Avoiding those places, the presence gives solace.

There is a time for everything under the heavens

2008-09-27T00:05:00.000-04:00

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die: a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted: a time to kill, and a time to heal: a time to break down, and a time to build up: a time to weep, and a time to laugh: a time to mourn, and a time to dance;....
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

I remember this reading from childhood, when going to daily mass seemed monotonous, but always left me feeling renewed. As the years went by, this reading stood out as one of my favorites and mass changed to being alluring. But as life came to pass and I was shown that everything wasn't black and white, it didn't have that same magical feeling when I listened to the lines. Today, as the day allowed me to attend mass, this reading showed its face once again in all its grace. In this timely manner I sighed and knew why. We are here yet only for a brief moment in the eyes of our being. We are here to love and be loved. To give of ourselves in care and comfort. To immerge in the world's beauty, absorb it's strength and discover the work God has done. There is an appointed time for everything...

Stumbling upon peace

2008-09-14T21:38:00.000-04:00

Peace is never far behind in my world. It runs besides me thru times of difficulty, but settles in when called upon. As always in my life, certain places and things make that peace more assessable and therefore will lighten my heart. When I came upon the above phrase while traveling, it immediately had my heart smiling. How true those words ring.

Silent air

2008-08-20T18:36:00.001-04:00

Standing still with no air....where to go from here...
If I backtrack, maybe I could find my footing.
If I move forward, will you stand with open arms to catch my fall?
Will your grip be reassuring..or have me looking back in earnest?

Gliding

2008-07-29T23:42:00.000-04:00

looking out

make a wish

closing your eyes
look into your own

see it floating

scattering in the wind

watch it drift my way

hovering over time

finding a safe place to land

Motyl

2008-07-25T20:16:00.000-04:00

"Happiness is only real when it's shared" ~Christopher McCandles~ Into the Wild

This alluring butterfly was flying around my flowerbed the other day. As I sat there and took dozens of pictures, I kept thinking that my photo would not capture the lightness of that beauty I was seeing first hand. The past few weeks I had witnessed bushes full of different butterflies on our river trip, then dozens more as I hiked thru Shenandoah Mountains a week later. But it was in my own yard that one stopped me in my tracks and reminded me of why I love butterfly gardens. The peace and tranquility seems to grab hold of me each and every time I take the moment to just watch them.

Flint River 95 miles, 7 days, 1 great time

2008-07-02T08:22:00.000-04:00

Paddle Georgia 08 was on the Flint River this year. We started in Thomaston and paddled 95 miles to Oglethorp, GA. We had a fun time along the way and experienced many changes on the Flint. Former President Jimmy Carter spoke to us on the last day. He talked of protecting the Flint River and all that it entails. This funraiser helped establish a new river protection group on the Flint.

The Beautiful Flint River at the 1-mile stretch of Yellow Jacket Shoals where the river drops nearly 40 feet.

All smiles after the first fun day on the River. :)

One of the many shoals.

Dan making it look easy.

Jimmy Carter at the fish fry.

Enjoying the rapids :)

2008-07-01T22:01:00.000-04:00

very simple....?

2008-06-16T22:49:00.000-04:00

I look at these flowers and think of perfection, simplicity, and see a lightness that smiles through. With all the colors in the world, again and again I pick white flowers to plant. It shows off a brightness without being pretentious. But, within this simple flower, there still lies complexity. Simple, yet complex. I would definitely describe myself as such also. Simple in that I believe everything should be true and honest, yet complex in the depth of my perceptions. I will continue to plant white flowers, take pictures of them, and show them in all their glory. To me simplicity is what I strive for.....while complexity is what I hope for.

2008-06-11T22:26:00.000-04:00

Swing Life Away

2008-05-09T09:32:00.000-04:00

When was the last time I was on a swing.....? I can't remember, but know it was when the kids were little.
I was drawn to it this past weekend while visiting family in Pennsylvania. As I watched my nephew from the kitchen window, I saw a smile on his face as he was swinging. He was wrapped up in his own world and enjoying his quiet time. When did I last feel that? I used to love the big swings where it felt like you were a mile off the ground and letting go would take you flying.
Needless to say I went outside. I told him he looked quite content there and asked to join him. He said it's best when your swinging by yourself. Disappointed, I then turned to walk away so he could continue. He jumped up and said it was my time to see for myself! As he left me there swinging, I knew just what he was talking about. I could have stayed there much longer then my schedule allowed. There is something about swinging and smiling that goes hand in hand as I quickly learned.
He went and grabbed my camera and took this picture to remember that moment. :) I smiled while my thoughts were swinging life away.....

The Art of Spring

2008-04-13T19:09:00.000-04:00

How beautiful spring is in Georgia. The flowers are blooming, birds are singing and the warmth of the sun is soaking through. These tulips have been adorning my front step all week. Every time I walk through the foyer, I can see them peeking through the side glass window of the door. I remember that rushed day when I actually threw them into the pot. I didn't have time to change the soil or set them in just right. But how glad I am that I took that extra 5 minutes to plant them. For now they are beaming brightly. That in itself has me smiling. :)

Quest

2008-04-11T13:45:00.000-04:00

And I know
I may end up failing too
But I know
You were just like me with someone disappointed in you

First glance, it's shining brightly. Then the mist of rain comes into play. The eyes remain steady in this direction. The quest unknown.... the stance forthcoming... but lost under the surface.

Moments...

2008-02-20T19:29:00.000-05:00

The silence between
your words stand
firm....it is at
those moments
where I see the
calmness that steals
my heart.

Etowah River

2008-02-10T21:13:00.000-05:00

I spent a cold February day on the river with Daniel and sixteen other people. We paddled the Etowah River with the intentions of going through an old mining tunnel that was 1/4 mile long. It was supposed to be dark, narrow, quick and scary. Just what I was looking for. :) Needless to say when we arrived, there were "no trespassing" signs with a fine of $5,000. Dan, myself and all but a few opted to paddle on down the river instead of taking our chances. With the temperatures in the 30's, we decided not to chance getting stuck in a dark cold tunnel alone nor pay a fine. (maybe when it gets warmer :)

But, it ended up being a fun day on the water. We had obstacles that made the paddle exciting, a takeout that took every bit of leftover energy, and we met new friends to paddle with in the future. Can't wait till next time. :)

What's in your world?

2008-02-08T10:15:00.000-05:00

2008

2008-01-01T21:16:00.000-05:00

Making my way into 2008
while not discounting the past year
the future looks bright and clear
and the possibilities endless.
I'm smiling at the thoughts
enlightened by the dreams
warmed from my surroundings
and always with my inner peace intact.
Watch me fly....

Flinched

2007-12-20T10:39:00.000-05:00

Silence

2007-12-13T22:54:00.000-05:00

known or unknown

2007-12-04T14:48:00.000-05:00

dreams fill our being

whether known or unknown

holding steadfast

controlling thoughts

with simple questions

should be so easy....

walking through the shadows

where's the clarity?

blind to see

can't be reached

faceless

From a distance

2007-11-06T08:11:00.000-05:00

Nod if you can hear me

2007-10-27T21:49:00.000-04:00

changes come eventually

struggling in our own space

is hard to match

that negative becomes a positive

we touch it, breathe it, experience it

the vibration covers you in this new world

finding some isolation, hearing the music

it asks for nothing

but gives everything

can you take me home? hear me? treasure me?

just one little nod

Distance speaks

2007-10-13T19:57:00.000-04:00

Never forget that once upon a time, in an unguarded moment, you recognized yourself as a friend. " Eat Pray Love" - Elizabeth Gilbert

I stand alone with only my thoughts to answer to.
How did it come to this, with all that feels, all that shouts,
smiles back at me like sunshine surrounding my heart?
We both stand close together as one, but the distance speaks.
Under the spell again.
I can't breathe or let go of the dream.
It feels good, conquers all, and sustains peace of mind.

Glancing with patience

2007-10-06T13:39:00.000-04:00

Sometimes it's hard to hang out in the crowd. Where the conversations are trivial and words fly without thinking. All that is wanted, all that is needed, seems to stand alone.

At a distance, it's unfathomable. At close range, unmistakable. Can you feel it?

You stand there with patience, as I sit waiting. Glancing up, knowing, expecting.

Choices, Change and Chianti

2007-09-21T23:44:00.000-04:00

I always thought that a clear and sharp mind made for the best writing. After a meal of beef (Not sure why I ate it. Where's my veggie burger?) and a bottle of Chianti, lets try to prove that theory wrong.

First, I would like to step out and talk about the word choices. We make them every day. In what we say, think and decide. We live with them. We see them. Sometimes the consequences are what we had in mind, sometimes not. Bottom line, are the choices really about us?

How about changes. Right before our eyes the world keeps evolving. Nothing new about that. But, why is it that we're always surprised when change stares us down? Are we prone to conform so as not to worry? How about standing our ground? Why does change usually weaken our defenses? Not until we're comfortable will we exhale and say "yes, that's why I did it".

I write because I feel. I love because I can. I smile with every bit of sunshine sparkling through. This is me. Simple, complex and questioning. Always questioning. Have I figured it out yet? No. Definitely not. But I do know that with every flicker of movement, every breeze that touches my skin, I have substance. Within that substance is peace. I hold that close.

Along with every morsel of shift, comes the ability to soar. Every speck of opportunity, the capacity to learn. The words come freely. The pattern sometimes jumbled. But, I know that it's full and just waiting to be heard at times.

Unfortunate Slight

2007-09-15T21:14:00.000-04:00

Lose control and let your emotions go. Untwist the feelings and let them fly. They will come back as clear as when they filtered in. Seize the moment, relish the thoughts. They are there.

Hold back and keep straight. There's a lot to say about continuance. Rest again peacefully. Smile genuinely.

Unfortunate slight.

Distant Horizon

2007-09-06T22:45:00.000-04:00

There is no pain, you are receding.
A distant ships smoke on the horizon.
You are only coming through in waves.
Your lips move but I can't hear what youre saying...

Comfortably Numb - Pink Floyd

When I watched the sun going down on this particular evening, I felt as though I could just sit there forever. There is something about the peacefulness that occurs as it slips away. Almost as though time should stand still during that last speck of light. A stillness surrounded by a comfort that we grasp for. Mesmerizing at it's best.

Capture it....feel it.... rest in it.

Fleeting Glimpse

2007-09-01T17:53:00.000-04:00

Behind the eyes I see

not only here and now

but feelings standing lone

dreams showing thru

discovering, learning, imploring.

One would not understand

and see only a fleeting glimpse

that makes it real

Piercing, yet gentle

2007-03-11T09:10:00.000-04:00

The object to crave sits looking on.

Piercing and gentle.

Pulled in from a distance.

Flattered by your presence,

yet simply can't quench that thirst,

your look says you've experienced all.

Embodied, yet unblemished.

The quietness fills the air,

speaking with silence.

walking out

2007-02-11T21:44:00.000-05:00

whatever I say should have some bearing

does it matter now

my thoughts in line, scattered, oppressed

ideas seem to flow when I let them

is there control here, out there

can you relate when you crucify

will I transform them to fit your dream

though I sit and watch mine fly

altered mood

my own zone

the breathing just got easier

He has been here

2007-01-19T23:15:00.000-05:00

Solitude has been my best friend through life.

It has not disappointed me. It comes to me when in great need,

and it leaves when ready. It's never desperate for changing,

but vanishes when asked. It won't argue, nor judge.

Solitude can leave me smiling. It is never lonely.

It's having a chance while starving for compliance.

Have I said too much?....

2006-12-17T19:22:00.000-05:00

The more you push me down, the more I press on.

The more you insist, the less there will be to give.

Handle my love with care and everything will be yours to hold.

2006-12-16T23:08:00.000-05:00

The easiest thing in the world to be is you. The most difficult thing to be is what other people want you to be. Don't let them put you in that position.
-- Leo Buscaglia

It is easiest to be myself. As others look and make their perception based on what they see, almost always something new comes to pass that makes them question. How easy it is to make assumptions. We clarify if only for our self, the road that is sometimes lonely yet sometimes needed, how to go on. Lots of people talking, few of them know.

2006-12-13T21:55:00.000-05:00

that's me in the corner

trying to find my way out

learning that I can't see where

consider this

the world stays still

in everything that I know, believe, act

consider again

the spin in my head

in just about every dream

comes tumbling down

Abundance

2006-09-04T12:55:00.000-04:00

If we possessed every virtue, but lacked humility, those virtues would be without root and would not last. -- St. Vincent de Paul

At times, I take a step back and look around me. I see things that I never dreamed of when young, and the sense of luck and fortune enters my mind. I step back in another direction and know everything I imagined has indeed showed it's face. And yet stepping back for another view, I see that the simple things have stayed the same for me.
The world and it's beauty that have always showed the path for my outlook, shines. Yesterday, I smiled when seeing that my flowers overtook this statue that has been adorned with color since my childhood. It is the same smile of those early years, the same beauty of color, the same statue. In abundance? Definitely.

My garden bursting into Life

2006-08-19T22:17:00.000-04:00

I've been taking pictures of butterflies the past week while in my garden. These insects have been fluttering around minding their own business while I stand in wonder looking at their perfect beauty. So light and airy, they bring my garden into a life of it's own.

I see them as extraordinary in their own right, peaceful in our midst.

Watch me shine

2006-08-08T11:50:00.000-04:00

Sitting in wait

Looking beyond

While beautifully placed

Freely smiling

On the grounds of just being

It breaks thru the silence

Speaking loudly

Seasons change

But watch me shine

If only for now

For tomorrow, I've yet to endure

Kelly's flip

2006-07-30T22:17:00.000-04:00

I will have to say that Kelly's first time in my kayak was an experience for her. :) As I was putting her in the boat, I kept hearing her say "I can't do this!". I just laughed and told her "just do it!". Little did I know that as soon as I turned my back, she was in the water. As I jumped in to make sure she exited the boat, I saw her on her back laughing and saying "I told you so!". She didn't want to get back in, but she tried again. After being more patient this time, she did well and enjoyed a little paddle in the cove. She proceeded the next day to venture out more into the lake with me. It was a fun time. :)

High Museum of Art, Atlanta

2006-07-26T17:10:00.000-04:00

NEW PHOTOGRAPHY

Taryn Simon

Ron Williamson
A former baseball player, he served 10 years of a death sentence for a murder he did not commit.

There is always something new to learn after visiting the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. The other day was no exception. The new exhibition on display consisted of 4 contemporary photography artists. The one in particular that stood out to me were the works of Taryn Simon, a New York City-based artist. One of her projects called Nonfiction, included photographs documenting international regions in turmoil. The pictures were very interesting, though sad of the destruction. The other series that stopped me in my tracks were The Innocents. They were photos of men wrongfully convicted, imprisoned, and then subsequently freed from death row. The primary case of wrongful convictions were mistaken identification. They were exonerated through the use of DNA evidence. This series of photos were taken at the scene of misidentification. Each one was bold in their look of emotion and left me wondering of the path they went getting to that point. I plan on getting the book containing all the photos and reading the stories behind it. I thought it interesting.

2006-07-22T16:19:00.000-04:00

Butterflies

2006-07-21T14:07:00.000-04:00

The butterfly is a flying flower. The flower, a tethered butterfly.

- Ecouchard Le Brun

What is more graceful than a flower? A butterfly of course. :) On this particular day, I had two of those beautiful insects land on my hand. I watched them closely, admiring their beauty. It made me think of all the pictures of butterflies I took in my garden looking through a lens. On this particular day, I just watched it sitting there at close range. I think it was saying, "just look in the moment before life passes by".

Thompson Weinman Dam

2006-07-14T22:14:00.001-04:00

Obstacles/Rapids:

Mile 3.5 - Thompson Weinman Dam - This lowhead dam poses a serious, dangerous threat if you go over it. There are no buoys to mark the dam so unless you know it is there, it is very easy to paddle right up to it's lip without realizing you are about to go over a 20- foot drop. After going beneath the Ga 293 bridge, keep to the left bank. Safety boats will direct you to the portage path. A TRIP OVER THIS DAM (RE:WATERFALL) COULD BE FATAL.

The above message was on our map for June 28th of the Paddle Georgia Trip. As I was preparing that morning for the 18 mile paddle, I read this paragraph on our map for the day. Needless to say, I was a little apprehensive, but sure that we would find this place and get around it becaue we were with 300 other people that day. We did just that and took pictures in front of it after we portaged around the dam. But I'm still thinking about that place 2 weeks later and keep wondering why there are not any buoys or warning signs posted in that area. Yes, we were fine because we were aware of it, but what about someone just getting out for the day and paddling this part of the river? I have found a web site for the Etowah River and plan on posing that question. We had caution signs along the river at different times for sediments and debris in the water, why not a sign for this dam??