Making Some Changes Around Here in America - Part 1

Irises in the Garden
11x14 inch
available on Etsy

 Change is a good thing, right? I think so. Recently, I experienced a life changing trip which changed my perspective on my whole views of life, and consequently, my art. Until now, at age 52, I had never been to Europe. I traveled to Mexico several times and always enjoyed the culture but visiting Europe was something different. It's hard for me to come up with the words to express how I felt.

As we arrived in Copenhagen, I knew I was in a different world. People were different. They were so happy and down to earth. They just had a comfortable way about them. Not trying to show off or compete with anyone. We were only there to catch another flight but it would be nice to go back and spend more time there. We took a flight to Amsterdam, and flying above the iconic architecture brought tears to my eyes. I couldn't believe I was actually there. The whole trip was a dream. We stayed in Haarlem, which is a short train ride to Amsterdam. Haarlem was an adorable town. Very walkable, rich with history, shopping, and great food. Amsterdam was a whirlwind day but very memorable. We walked 12 miles but it didn't feel like it. It really felt like Disneyland but real, and it was just as crowded. My husband is from there, so for him it was more crowded than ever before. I didn't know any other than the way it was. The bikes were crazy! Red-light district was odd. The bridges and canals were wondrous. Flowers everywhere! 

Then on to Brugge. What a treat! It's an old medieval town with castles, churches, buildings from the beginning of time! It was like I was in a storybook complete with swans in the streams. This whole trip was an artist's dream come true! I could live in any of the places we went...although, being a native from Redondo Beach, it might be a little too cold for me. Have you been to Europe? I'd love to hear your experience.

This painting is just one of my newly inspired pieces. I hope you like it!