The Muse is Back!

I have been home 2 weeks now and until yesterday, every time I walked into my studio, I felt empty and hurried out. I did get a lot done on the computer. It takes time to update my online galleries and I even spent some time studying Spanish.

The dental work continues and there was socializing also; but yesterday, after the meditation service, I was eager to start a new series. Here is what is happening:

Here's where I stopped. The paint was too wet to continue

San Diego and Scottsdale, and Sedona

My middle daughter, Renee, drove from Scottsdale to Encinitas, to pick me up at the end of stay at the retreat. We stayed in Del Mar, continuing to enjoy the ocean views.

The second day to went to Balboa Park. It was the first time we had visited this incredible place. Usually in cities, I head for galleries or art museums, so I had missed this experience.

Renee in front of the orchid building

More orchids than I have ever seen in one place.

Renee and I did not run out the things to talk about the next day on the 6 hours drive to Arizona.

First evening in Scottsdale. Valarie, my first born, whom I had not seen in 4 years flew in from San Francisco. Joy, joy

Renee and my son-in-law, Maka ala, He brews his own organic beer

Our trip to Sedona

Enjoying the view, the breeze and an iced coffee

Valarie enjoying a quiet time on our hike

A break before heading back to the heat of Scottsdale

Valarie, cooling her feet

It had been years since I been in Sedona and it was a wonderful day with my Stateside family

No Painting, but Instead, an Adventure

I traveled to California, leaving May 1 with a toothache, but since it had happened before and was taken care of with a water pick, I didn't cancel my plans.

Arriving at the Mexico City airport, the right side of my face was swollen and the pain was intense. By the time I arrived at the hotel in San Diego I was shaking with chills.

I contacted my daughters and told them what was happening. My oldest daughter Valarie, rushed into action by finding a dentist who could see me in the morning and arranged a car to pick me up and get me to my emergency appointment.

I tried to smile, but only one side of my face moved.

That morning was challenging. By the time I arrived at the Self Realization Fellowship retreat, I was armed with pain pills and antibiotics. I fell into bed and by the next day I could be physically present, and the healing began.

The silent retreat in Encinitas California was beautiful and peaceful. Most of my 6 days there were spent in meditation and introspection. After a couple of days, my face looked normal and I was pain free.

The meditation gardens are a haven of peace and beauty

The public is welcome during most days

There are many different species of plants

Even the Koi seem happy

I spent hours watching the waves and feeling gratitude that I was there