“If chaos is a necessary step in the organization of one's universe, then I was well on my way.”
― Wendelin Van Draanen
This is a row of trees in Château de Villandry, just outside of Paris. I took a thousand photos of the picturesque gardens a few years ago. Many of the photos will become paintings like this one.
The house is under renovation. Three bathrooms were leaking simultaneously, so I just went for it. The job should be finished by now, and it isn't. I am grateful for such a wonderful "problem." Mom is still in rehab, but she's beginning to improve. She is getting the best care. So I count that as a blessing too.
Next week my son, Coltrane, and my friend, John, will be running things at home because I'll be waking up on the Left Bank, getting ready to spend the day with my artist pals in Paris. I've been planning this trip for a while. My Google sheet is chock full of outings and restaurant reservations. The first stop will be at the Sennelier shop to pick up some art supplies. Then, I'll dine at the Eiffel Tower, sniff Monet's waterlilies, drink wine, and eat oysters. It'll be a heavenly week in the city of light.
I spent my 21st birthday in Paris. I believe this photo was taken after I insisted that my friend, Raffaele, and I walk up the steps of the Arc de Triumphe to avoid the line. She refuse to walk the steps of the Eiffel Tower!
After a week in Paris, I'll visit my daughter, Adison, in Prague. She's living her best life while studying abroad this semester. She's looking forward to showing me around, which has me more excited than anything! After Prague, I have another gal pal joining me as we venture to the land with the Sound of Music, Salzburg, then to beautiful Vienna, and finally Budapest. Nineteen days of adventure will produce loads of pictures to inspire future works of art.
Adison is enjoying her time, traveling and studying abroad. I'm so excited to hear about her adventures.
Starting next Tuesday you can follow my travel adventures on FaceBook and Instagram, by clicking the icons above. Follow my artist pals by clicking on their names and get their perspectives:
Marina Bosetti @bosetti_art_tile
Andi Ipaktchi @andiipaktchi
Louisa MacCabe @louisamccabeart
The week I get back, I'll be co-organizing and participating in the Warren Court Art Walk. Come by and hear about my European whirlwind and see what's been brewing in the studio. It will be a fantastic weekend of art, music, and community.
I am so grateful to live this miraculous life and be able to do work that I love. I can renovate bathrooms, take vacations, explore my creativity and celebrate with loved ones. I have my health. I have so much. I have you.
Thanks for being on the journey with me—the ups and downs, the pits, stems and sweet delicious fruit. Life is a bowl of cherries!
Love you,
Leslie
xo