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UNDERSEA MOSAIC IN CHINATOWN, SAN FRANCISCO
BEATIN’ THE BLUES….
Dear Friends and Family, Old and New, Near and Far:
By now, many of us have been sobered by the losses this epidemic has wrought. For awhile, I was in a bubble and knew no one who had been ill. Now I know of many cases, both light and severe, and also of numerous deaths. Some people are insouciant, yet emotions are heightened for many. The limbo of wondering when things will return to “normal” adds to despair. In my own family, we lost a cousin unexpectedly this week, apparently a heart attack, and both my sister-in-law and my niece are battling cancer. When life is disheartening, how do we maintain our equilibrium? Conquer the “blues?”
For me, I am enlightened by nature, and I revel in the colors, the shapes and the variety in the natural world. The transient hues of the sunset reflected on water bring grace to my soul.
And this fall I swerved into Monterey Bay, California especially to visit the aquarium where the underwater ballet of the jellyfish transfixed me. What a gift to be able to see tropical fish float before my eyes, and all without having to don a mask, fins and pay a divemaster!
BREAKFAST ON THE TERRACE!
And who could be “blue” for very long when you can have breakfast while looking at the ocean? You can see why going to a restaurant has little allure. This is the reason I sold everything so I could live near the sea. It’s the small things in life that bring me the greatest pleasure.
NOURISHED BY THE ARTISTIC EXPERIENCE…
And I continue to be inspired by art, wherever I am. At the Asian Art Museumin San Francisco there is an immersive exhibit of floating flowers and butterflies, swirling calligraphy, and ambient music that is responsive to the movements of the viewers. It’s mesmerizing and a little dizzying. If you are anywhere near there, GO!!!!
Then on arrival in Puerto Vallarta, I was happy to see a new mural on Calle Vallarta with images of the Huicholes and their symbolism.
PuertoVT
FULL MOON OVER THE SEA, PACIFIC GROVE, CALIFORNIA
It was another gift of nature to see this beautiful moon while driving south on Highway 1 in California.
It
Adding to the joy in life and counteracting the “blues,” are all of YOU, my friends and family, whether you are close enough for a spontaneous dinner, or whether I see you only once a year in my travels. I am warmed and enriched by your messages if you are distant, and by your presence if you are near. Know that I am keeping you close in my heart.
I hope this finds you joyful in where you are in the world, exercising your creativity, and surrounded by loved ones. Once again, remember to take care of your special selves, follow your dreams, and express your love fully to those around you. We are more perishable than we think.
Abrazos y besos,
Elena
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